#[support] azelle

[gurado-no-nouru]

Azelle presents his classmate with the tray of pastries, smiling wide in the face of a face that he interprets as bored, or perhaps annoyed. Some people's faces are just like that, though, so he tries not to read into it.

"Excuse me," he says gently, trying to draw the other's attention away from his book. "My name is Azelle Velthomer. I'm one of your classmates. It's nice to meet you. Would you like a pastry?"

He presents the tray to Knoll: still full of cinnamon rolls and raspberry tarts for him to choose from.

Knoll raises his head, then takes a moment to bookmark his thoughts, as well as his book.

He smiles politely. "I'm Knoll, nice to meet you too, Azelle. It's very kind of you to offer these."

He considers the options: a roll or a tart. Every decision for Knoll is an important decision, unless he seriously decides that the dilemma is not worth his time.

"Mhh," he ponders still. "I will go for the cinnamon roll, if you please."

His exact reason for this choice is that he didn't know what was in the tart, and didn't want to bother Azelle more than was necessary, since he had to pass every student. Also, the more time Knoll passes away from his book, the more likely he will forget his last idea.

He takes out a small violet cloth tissue from a pocket and momentarily pauses to see if Anelle will hand over the pastry or if he should reach for it.

@azelfire

[valflaame]

No one would believe him if he voiced his thoughts aloud. There's an undeniable shift in the air, a shiver settling deep in his bones with no known cause. He brushes it off at first as a side effect of the training gauntlet, though his doubts linger.

Exhaustion fades a day after the event yet the unsettled feeling remains. Azelle finds himself looking over his shoulder, hesitant to turn corners, body tensing at the slightest provocation.

A spoon is halfway to his mouth when the hairs on the back of his neck rise. Slowly, the utensil lowers, dropping back into his soup with a dull plop. Azelle's gaze lands on his half-brother as if drawn by a magnet.

He swallows, throat bobbing, before standing on unsteady legs. "Arvis," he croaks out in disbelief. (Or is it fear?) "...what are you doing here?"

Arvis had often wondered what happened to Azelle.

He had entrusted him to Sigurd, told him explicitly that his brother meant to world to him. After the battle of Belhalla he hadn't learned of his half-brother's fate, and it ate at him.

Arvis may not have been the most kind and loving sort to Azelle, but that did not mean he did not think about him, and feel protective over him. Azelle was not immune to Arvis' fiery temper, his outbursts, his jealous and possessive moments -- he's not sure he ever made it clear to the younger that he did not begrudge him anything.

All of these thoughts come to him at once as he turns and hears that familiar voice. This monastery truly has the most curious of magic, bringing his family back to him, one by one.

"Azelle," is all he trusts himself to say at first, and then adds: "I'm getting dinner. Care to join me?"

[idoun]

hot chicken is good for the soul | idunn & azelle

Closed starter for @ignifilis Idunn hadn��t thought much about what the situation would entail or if there was any price to pay for this- all she knew was that she was cold, terribly so, and needed to find a warm shelter. The girl had yet to find a way to ward off the low temperatures, as currently all she had was her uniform and a cloak or two. The cold…the experience felt nice for the first week or so. How the white sands of this place would burn at her skin but never the same way that the blazing sunlight of the desert did.

But now…she figured out one drawback, quite a drastic one. The longer she was exposed to this cold, the more her body seemed to freeze up. Was this the same effect that the plants and lakes suffered? They all seemed to become still and frozen in place, trapped into water’s unforgiving grip. Her body was very much the same- because she felt it. In the morning, it was hard to move and get up. Even her mind seemed frozen by the cold, sluggish and lazy.

Idunn decided she didn’t quite like the cold. 

So, she found this spot here. A nice, warm place amidst the blizzard. Many other students were there as well, but what caught her attention at first was the ritual they had to perform in order to remain at this house. Much like a challenge of resistance, they were handled pieces of chicken imbued in fire- or at least, some sort of fiery concoction. At the first bite, her mouth and throat was set ablaze as if she had somehow gotten a hiccup while casting her Dark Breath, but there was no visible fire nor the typical sensation of a burn wound. Her mouth was very much intact, but the sensation of fire remained.

She liked it. Or well, she was still deciding if she truly did like the fiery soup, but the chicken did taste really good so it was more or less halfway decided. The ritual asked for participants to consume a certain amount of this blazing chicken…she saw no problem. This was good food, and Idunn knew to not let food go to waste ever.

It was mid-bite that she smelled something different. The scent of a student- human, but with dragon-laced blood. Faint, but there. A hybrid? The connection seemed distant, perhaps the contact his bloodline had with said dragon was old as time, but there was something there. The familiar smell of a fire dragon’s blood, notes of charcoal mixed in with a very much human scent. Idunn’s eyes followed her nose, and there he was. A boy, student of the Academy much like her, apparently suffering from the same effects of the cold as her. Perhaps the fire dragon remnants inside him were reacting to the environment.

The girl got up, one already bitten chicken leg in one hand and an intact one in her other. She silently but surely made her way towards the boy- stopped before him, and held out the entire piece of meat to him.

“You seem cold. The winds are affecting you.” She stared, taking in what information she could get. Eyes and hair red like fire, matching with the aura emanating from him. Strong- a mage with fingertips dipped in the planet’s blood. Kind eyes, kind soul. Not the destructive type of inferno- more akin to an inviting bonfire during a cold desert night. “This meat is imbued in fire. It will warm you.”

[justicespeared]

"Hello! Excuse me, miss?"

Azelle calls for the pig-tailed knight to get her attention, waving to draw her eye, as well. "Hi. Sorry for bothering you, but I was wondering if you've seen -"

He realizes his impropriety and quickly aims to amend it, offering the woman a polite bow and his name.

"Excuse me. I am Azelle Velthomer. We fought in round two, and I was wondering if you haven't seen a tome I seem to have misplaced? Not a fire tome, mind, it was something my opponent lost in round one, and I'd intended to return it to her, but round two started before I had the chance. Have you seen it?"

post-BOEL

“Oh, Red-Haired Guy!” Of course, this is how Cynthia chooses to greet him. She’d never met this man before in her life, that is, until their fight. Then he’d sworn revenge on her, yadda yadda, the usual stuff.

“I remember you; I kicked your butt.” This is a matter of pride, especially after Cynthia had lost so pathetically in round 3. Eh, maybe Tine would appreciate the irony, come to think of it. Still, not important - he’s here for bigger things. “Oh, and my name’s Cynthia.” Jeez, this guy must be important if he’s got two names. Why doesn’t Cynthia have two names? Ooh, she’s so jealous.

“Er… L’Arachel might’ve taken it? I dunno,” she says with a shrug. “All I got was a neat bow out of the fight, but I can’t keep it. That sucks, right? Not that I can use it, but y’know, it would’ve been useful.” Not that she speaks to many archers. “You need a hand to look for the thing? I can help!” Anything to distract her brain and body from the crushing loss.

[taguelbunnyboy]

🎲

(Rolled 41: A kiss out of spite)

"Ha! Bet the half-breed's never kissed anyone before? How's it feel being part of a failing species?"

Yarne pales under the words - even after this time, hate still makes him feel scared. But even with that...

Something different clicks in him this time.

"I've kissed before. And even if I hadn't..."

Out of impulse, Yarne grabs the nearest student attending the lecture, pulling him in close.

"Sorry about this."

He whispers it out before placing a soft, delicate kiss to his lips, and pushing back, glaring at the overtalkative bully.

"I've got more chances for a partner than you ever will. So talk to me again about who's a failing species."

He practically spits out the words, watching the bully scurry off, before looking back to the student he had pulled close - he hadn't really seen him before, but...

"I... sorry about that - again. Needed to scare them off. They weren't... letting up. That felt like the only way I could get them to scatter."

He rubs his neck awkwardly, but still smiles.

"I... hope it wasn't too bad, regardless?"

[nohrslittleflower]

Nearing the end of his quest to introduce himself to everyone belonging to his same house, he confirms that he has enough pastries left for everyone and finds that he made too many. Oh well!

That's about the opposite of a problem, he thinks.

He approaches the blond girl with a smile, bending to allow her to see the platter of pastries better. "Hello!" he says. "I'm Azelle Velthomer. I'm one of the newer classmates. I just wanted to introduce myself. Would you like a treat? There's raspberry tarts and cinnamon rolls."

She already knows who he is by now. Her eyes have been locked onto him since the moment he first walked through the door with a plethora of sweet treats in tow. She wasn’t about to go up and ask for one outright, that would’ve been rude, but she was definitely trying to telepathically send the message that yes she very much wants one.

Fortunately, it seems the message was received. “Really?! Thank you!” Elise smiles broadly, wasting no time in reaching for one. Hand hovers indecisively over the treats for a moment, before eventually settling on a cinnamon roll. As much as she wants to ask if both would be an option, she knows adults are supposed to limit themselves on the treats. The worst part, really. Tragic.

The Nohrian princess gasps, hand covering her mouth as she takes the first bite. Because talking with your mouth open is rude, but this simply cannot wait. “This is really good! Did you make this?!” She asks, but the answer doesn’t really matter. The cinnamon roll’s fate is sealed all the same. Do not cry for it. It is in a better place now.

“Oh, I’m Elise, by the way. Welcome to the Black Eagles, hehe!”

[mapleibara]

Quiz Beast Attack: Azel Radwan

◍This is fan translation and may contain inaccuracy in sentences or word usage that different from original language. All contents are owned by CYBIRD◍

**Correct answer bold in green

A. Gilbert

Question 1: Who gave Azel the necklace he is wearing?

Azel: ...............Are you out of mind?

Azel: If all the accessories I'm wearing right now were gifts from that conquer brat— then, it'd be a choice between dying or having a collar that genuinely means submission

Azel: This isn’t a joke, so don’t misunderstand anything from here on.

Azel: However, he’s rich, so that’s the troublesome part... I won’t say what I mean.

B. Matias and Kagari

Azel: They don’t give me accessories, but mostly food and books

Azel: Kagari gives me dorayaki every time we meet, over and over again.

Azel: It’s possible that he might eventually give me a dorayaki ornament, but if that happens, I suppose it can’t be helped.

C. Silvio

Azel: Yes, that's right. All the accessories I’m wearing were gifts from Prince Silvio......

Azel: In the past, when Prince Silvio visited me without any prior notice, he generously gave me a gift.

Azel: At that time, my attire was so shabby that he probably couldn't bear to look at it.

Azel: Living god are supposed to value simplicity and despise lavish indulgence.

Azel: At that time, I was also troublesome—ah, no, as a holy symbol, I was trying to practice simplicity and frugality.......

Azel: Prince Silvio’s belief was that a god revered by people shouldn’t be modest.

Azel:...Well, I suppose it was his way of showing kindness.

Azel: After that, I started wearing all these jingling jangling accessories as symbol of my loyalty to Prince Silvio

Azel: If you also have something you'd like to give me, feel free to give it to me. I'll accept anything, no matter how much

Question 2: What is Azel's favorite dish?

A. Lovely, exquisite sweets

Azel: Of course, if given, I'll eat them, but do I look like some kind of sweets fanatic to you?

Azel: ...Well, you seem to like them.

Azel: .............If you like them, I might end up liking them too. No, forget what I just said.

Azel: Anyway, if you want to give sweets, feel free to do so

Azel: But, in that case, make sure to prepare enough for two. ...It's meaningless if it's just for me.

B. Well-prepared, satisfying meat dishes

Azel: You are absolutely right. Especially skewered grilled meat that can be eaten with one hand, it's a versatile dish.

Azel: If you're reading a book during a meal, this is practically the only choice. The fact that it keeps you full is also a highly praised point

Azel: However, I don’t really have any particular preferences. These days, there’s no real need to eat with one hand.

Azel: Rather than focusing on meat dishes, it's more about your—ahem—sorry, my throat just suddenly acted up.

Azel: Stop grinning, it’s irritating *blush*

C. Homemade dishes with full of love

Azel:…Don’t answer so boldly, be a bit more reserved

Azel: Putting aside the whole 'full of love' thing, I do enjoy homemade meals.

Azel: Having lived alone for a long time, I understand the value of having a meal ready after work

Azel: But that’s all there is to it. It’s absolutely not because the dishes you make taste especially good to me…

Azel: And it’s not because I like it just because you put all your effort into thinking about the meal, so don’t get the wrong idea

Azel:…………

Azel:………………………………Well, when it comes to cooking, I suppose it's fine if you get the wrong idea and think it's special because I consider your effort.

Question 3: What is the 'subject' of the first invoice Azel sent you as a letter?

A. Divination Professional Plan

Azel: I'll say this first, but the fee for the Professional Plan will be ten times the one I sent you.

Azel: Personally, it's perfectly fine if you decide to use the Professional Plan

Azel: By the way, the difference between the Standard Plan and the Professional Plan is the scope of support.

Azel: The Standard Plan is basic—ahem, it only provides advice that is reasonable for the price..

Azel: In the case of the Professional Plan, detailed future insights are provided and assistance is given in formulating strategies

Azel: Personally, I think both are extremely good value in terms of fees. However, the only regular customer is Prince Silvio.

Azel: I look forward to your use of the Professional Plan on this occasion

B. Fortune-Telling Standard Plan

Azel: I'm glad that you remembered. Oh, and it's good to see that you're keeping the invoice carefully as well.

Azel: The fortune-telling I did for you back then... it was accurate, right?

Azel: You can keep using my services in the future if you'd like. For your sake, I will work myself to the bone, doing a fortune-telling for you.

Azel: ………………A lover’s discount? There’s no such thing.

Azel: Regardless of the relationship, the fee is the same. Actually, if it's with you, I might even charge an extra fee.

Azel: ………………………If that's the case, even if my debt were gone, you'd keep paying me back for the rest of your life, wouldn't you?

Azel: Ahem... Anyway, you’re special. I don't accept any objections.

C. One Month Temple Rent

Azel: That’s the second invoice. By the way, you're still making continuous payments through automatic debit

Azel: Didn’t you notice? There’s no way you can live in a house for free, right?

Azel: ...No, wait, don’t pack your things, don’t try to leave, don't act rashly *panic*

Azel: I’ll tell you, it’s an unbelievably cheap price, okay? You won’t find anyone on the continent renting out a temple.

Azel: You’re lucky to be able to live in a place like this. Please don’t leave.

Azel : ...I actually prefer living with you now more than when I was living alone.

How many questions did you get right?

Azel: Got it? Don’t make a smug face just because you got a quiz of this level right.

Azel: Especially that face you’re making, like 'I know everything because I love you'. Stop it.

Azel: ...When you make that face, it just makes me uncomfortable.

Azel: As compensation for the mental damage, how about you tell me about yourself next?

Azel: There's nothing impossible for a god who can see everything, so it’s no surprise I’d get every question right.

Azel: ........Huh? You're making that 'I know everything because I love you' face? It's annoying *blush, again*

[aishangotome]

Azel Radwan: Chapter 14 Premium Story

Chapter 14

Thank you @passthechloroform for providing the video for this chapter!

♡———♡

When I returned to the solitary desert castle, Azel was waiting for me, looking down from the upper floor.

His mystical, inhuman eyes were initially lit with a cold color, but perhaps noticing the change in me as I rubbed my eyes repeatedly, the air around him shifted.

Azel: Are you... crying?

Emma: There are circumstances–

Azel: What on earth did they talk about with you to make you cry so much?

Azel: No, is it about me...? I can't understand why you would cry over that little bit of information.

(What do I do, I think he's misunderstanding.)

Just as I opened my mouth to explain, he quickly disappeared into the depths of the building.

Azel returned shortly, holding a wet linen cloth in his hand.

He forcefully wiped around my eyes with the tightly wrung linen, and I let him.

(This isn't an illusion or anything. If this warmth is an illusion, then I won't be able to believe anything I see.)

Azel: Stop crying already, it's an eyesore.

Azel: Did they tell you that I was brainwashing you like some spoiled rich kid?

Azel: But as you know, I only control with money.

Azel: I haven't done anything like secretly burning some strange incense to brainwash you.

Azel: In the first place, people can be controlled much more easily without resorting to such underhanded tactics.

Azel: –No, that's not right. Anyway, you're not the kind of woman to be swayed by others.

Azel: Have some confidence. And stop crying. It makes me look like the bad guy... Well, I might be the bad guy.

Azel, who continued to speak without pause, seemed at a loss for how to deal with a human who kept crying.

(He's probably... trying to comfort me, right?)

(I'm the only one who knows this side of him. That's why no one can believe in Azel.)

*earlier*

Clavis: Emma, do you recognize the scent of this fragrant wood?

A few hours ago – Clavis opened the lid of the small bottle containing the wood piece and handed it to me.

Emma: I don't... recognize it.

Clavis: That's good. If you did, I was prepared to confront God myself.

Emma: ...You're concerned that I might also be under some kind of mind control, aren't you, Clavis?

Clavis: No, no, I'm certainly not doubting love, but...

Clavis: Since we found this, it's better to be safe than sorry.

Clavis: It's quite possible that God is pulling the strings behind the scenes of that gathering.

Emma: But Azel seemed to dislike the apostle.

Emma: Their ideologies are different, I can't imagine them joining hands...

Clavis: Oh? That's news to me.

Luke: Even if what you're saying is true, God didn't stop that riot.

Luke: Even though he could have...

Emma: That's...

Luke: Whether they get along or not, God is condoning the apostle's actions.

Luke: At that point, you could say he's an accomplice, right?

Emma: ...Maybe there's some reason.

Silvio: Ha, you're awfully quick to defend him, ain't ya? Do you like that greedy bastard that much?

Emma: Maybe I've grown attached to him after being around him for so long.

Clavis: Love, huh?

Emma: It's not!

Clavis: Haha, don't be shy, don't be shy. Believe me, I want to support you too.

Clavis: But the situation in Tanzanite is changing by the minute.

Clavis: If God has no intention of stopping the riots and is tolerating the apostle's indirect guidance...

Clavis: It wouldn't be strange if he was plotting something.

Silvio: I think the riots are disadvantageous for God, though?

Clavis: Azel might be finding some benefit within this "disadvantageous situation."

Luke: Whatever the purpose, the scale of the riots might increase in the future.

Luke: Wouldn't it be dangerous for you to be by God's side then?

Emma: ...

Clavis: Your safety is far more important than exposing God's secrets.

Clavis: The infatuation incidents have calmed down recently, haven't they?

Clavis: With the two maids severely punished, no one bothers you unnecessarily anymore.

Clavis: I don't know what happened to you, but now, including Silvio, the three of us can protect you.

Silvio: Don't drag me into babysittin' a woman.

Luke: Don't you want to come back now, Emma?

*back to present*

(Originally, I ended up staying at this temple because of the aphrodisiac incident.)

(I think if I return to the castle now, I'll be treated with respect as the woman God is infatuated with.)

(I don't like that, but as Clavis and Luke said, the situation is changing by the minute.)

(Even aside from those circumstances, it must be a nuisance for Azel to lend me a corner of his private room for a long period.)

(I'm only here because of my selfishness, so I could brace myself and choose to return to the castle... but...)

Emma: I'm... sorry...

Azel: What are you apologizing for? What are you apologizing for?

Emma: I'm not crying because I'm sad.

(...If my selfishness is allowed, I want to stay here a little longer.)

(Until the day I unravel the mystery of the Triple Alliance, break through Azel's illusions, and see the truth–)

Emma: Sand... got in my eyes...

Azel: ...

When I confessed honestly, the linen slipped from Azel's hand.

Emma: It was windy on my way here.

Emma: It hurts... and the tears won't stop.

Azel: ...........

Emma: What should I do in times like this?

Azel: ...I don't know, goodbye, please don't expect God's mercy ever again.

Emma: I'm really in trouble!

Azel: I don't care, damn it.

Emma: You were the one who jumped to conclusions, Prince Azel–

Azel: You're the one to blame for being misleading.

Azel: And stop rubbing your eyes! If there's sand in them, you'll scratch your eyeballs. Are you that much of an idiot that you don't even understand that?

He grabs my hand firmly and pulls it away from my eyes.

Despite his harsh words, he can't hide the hints of worry that surface.

Emma: Hehe... Thank you.

Azel: Shall I torture you with water?

Emma: That's not something a God would do!

Azel: An evil God might.

(Then I'm sure it'll be alright.)

(He's just greedy for money, I can say for sure that he's not an evil God.)

-

After taking a bath, the tears finally stopped, and the foreign body sensation in my eyes disappeared.

Emma: I've calmed down... Thank you.

When I returned to the room, Azel was silently moving his pen at the desk.

Perhaps still sulking, he only glanced at me and didn't reply.

Emma: Is that a divine message?

Azel: Don't ask if you already know.

Azel is always serious when writing divine messages to deliver to the people in the castle in the morning.

He continues to spin instructions without stopping, occasionally checking reports.

Despite calling it a "divine message," I've never seen him use any divination tools, and everything he writes is left entirely to Azel's mind.

Azel: ...What are you staring at?

Azel: You'd usually be reading a book in the corner.

Emma: That's true, but my eyes hurt today, so I don't feel like reading...

Azel: Then sleep.

Emma: It's too early to sleep...

Azel: Then meditate.

Emma: Is there anything I can help you with?

Azel: No.

(...There isn't, huh?)

Even as we speak, Azel's hand doesn't stop.

Only the pleasant sound of the pen melts into the desert night.

(Azel didn't stop the people's conflict. That's a fact.)

(The riot might eventually become the beginning of Tanzanite's collapse.)

(But, if he were a God who didn't care about Tanzanite...)

(I don't think he would be facing official documents like this late at night.)

Living in Tanzanite, you can see that people's lives are surprisingly affluent for a desert country.

This is because trade with other countries is successful, ensuring a minimum standard of living without any shortage of food or water.

Whether it's foreign or domestic affairs, Tanzanite is politically successful.

A part of it – no, all of it is probably thanks to Azel.

The great ship that is Tanzanite is entirely steered by the God.

Listening to the conversations with the messengers who come every morning, I felt like that wasn't an exaggeration.

Emma: ...Prince Azel, you're truly amazing.

Azel: Huh?

Emma: There's no divine message that is completed in an instant with mystical power.

Emma: Since I learned that a divine message is created only after putting your heart and soul into it like this every day, I've come to respect you.

Azel: Well, I'm not putting my heart and soul into it, but...

Emma: You continue this every single day, without rest.

Emma: Not just anyone can do that.

Azel: That's because I'm a God.

Emma: I think it's because it's you, Prince Azel...

The pen, which hadn't stopped no matter what I said, came to a sudden halt.

Azel: Isn't it the same meaning?

Emma: No, it's completely different.

Emma: You said the difference between a God and a human is whether they can predict the future, right?

Emma: Even if predicting the future is what makes a God, it's you, Prince Azel, who puts that into policy.

Azel: ...

Emma: So, it's not the power of a God, but your power, Prince Azel.

Azel: ...I haven't thought about it that way. It's common sense in this country that it's only natural for a God to be able to do it.

Azel: There's almost no one who thinks like you do.

Emma: ...Have I imposed the values of a foreign country?

Azel: Ah, at least it's better not to say that to the people of Tanzanite.

Azel: What you just said is tantamount to denying the mystical.

(Did I make him uncomfortable?)

Azel: But...

Azel: ...I like it.

Emma: ...? I couldn't hear you well...

Azel: It's nothing.

Emma: Wah!

Azel stands up, picks me up, and throws me onto the bed.

As I try to get up, he forcefully holds my head down, burying it in the pillow.

Emma: What are you doing!?

Azel: I'm trying to put you to sleep because you're so noisy.

Emma: I'll be quiet now!

Azel: No, you'll never be quiet.

The hand holding my face down isn't rough, and I can tell he's being careful.

It's unbearably ticklish and unsettling.

Azel: ...Haah, I thought I could finally sleep peacefully alone again from today.

Azel: I can't believe those guys in Rhodolite would send you back to an evil God.

Emma: I was the one who said–

*earlier*

Luke: Don't you want to come back now, Emma?

Emma: I'm sorry for making you worry. But I think I'll stay at the temple a little longer.

Clavis: So love wins after all–

Emma: It's not like that...

Emma: If I'm gone, God will surely cry.

*flashback over*

Emma: –So in order not to make Prince Azel cry, I'll stay a little longer...

Emma: That... hurts, it hurts!

Azel's fingers tighten, and I thrash about.

Azel: That's slander, I'll sue you for damages again. This time it'll be a huge amount.

Emma: But really, isn't it a shame to let go of someone who can cook?

Azel: Not at all.

Emma: It's a shame, isn't it? I could see the tears in your heart, Prince Azel.

Azel: Go see a doctor tomorrow. You're in a serious condition where you're seeing hallucinations.

Emma: ...Hehe.

Azel: What's so funny?

Emma: It's strange, isn't it? Even though you're a God right in front of me...

Emma: I feel like I can be more myself when I'm with you than with anyone else.

Azel: ...

(This is a dilapidated solitary castle, but it's much more comfortable than the royal palace.)

Emma: Maybe it's because you have such a bad personality that I can say anything without holding back...

Emma: Eek...!

Azel, who usually pulls my cheeks, doesn't get angry or reprimand me, but laughs in exasperation.

However, it was a soft smile, like the moonlight.

Azel: Slander again... You're really good at accumulating debt, aren't you?

Emma: ...That might be true.

My heart skips a beat at the gentleness in his mystical eyes, at the sweetness in his voice, and I dive under the blanket.

Perhaps Azel also thought I intended to sleep, as he didn't say anything more, and the calming sound of the pen started to echo through the room again.

(What was that just now...?)

-

(Azel's POV)

I roll the pen on the desk, close the lid of the ink, and head for the bed.

The first occupant was curled up at the edge of the bed.

She was maintaining a precarious balance, just barely avoiding falling off, but a single slight movement would send her tumbling to the floor, prompting a click of my tongue.

Azel: Can you please stop this, day after day?

I carefully lift her body so as not to wake her and move her to the center of the bed.

She's probably unaware of this nightly routine that has become a habit.

Azel: Even so... I bet her eyes will be swollen tomorrow.

Even with her eyelids closed, the area around her eyes, illuminated by the moonlight, was tinged with red.

There's no sign of her waking up even when I lightly trace it with my fingertip.

Azel: Well, it's none of my business.

Azel: ...It's none of my business...

Azel: ..............

As if struggling with something, I furrow my brow deeply—

And then, I gently brush aside the bangs of the sleeping lodger and lightly kiss her eyelid.

Azel: ...There's no such thing as God's protection in reality.

Azel: If this heals by tomorrow, I'm really not human.

Azel: ...........

Azel: ………… What am I doing?

.

.

.

Chapter 15

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[cheshireliam]

"My Ideal Life of A Doting Love" Story Event: Chapter 1

Azel Radwan

This is a fan-made translation solely for entertainment purposes with no guaranteed perfection; expect mistakes, grammatical errors, and some creative liberties. All original content and media used belongs to Cybird. Please support the game by buying their stories and playing their games. Reblogs appreciated.

Read this before interacting

After some time of living together with Tanzanite's Living God in a isolated castle in the desert—

I noticed something strange about my lover.

…

Emma: Prince Aze— I mean, Azel. Lunch is ready…

Emma: … What are you doing?

Despite having retired from his duties as Living God and supposedly enjoying a peaceful life, Azel was sitting at his desk and reading a book upside down.

Azel: Isn't it obvious?

Emma: No, it's not. Is that how that book is meant to be read?

Azel: Oh.

As if he had only just realised that the book was upside down, he nonchalantly flipped it right side up and cleared his throat.

(Something's not right. He was definitely up to something before I came, wasn't he?)

Azel: Wrong.

Emma: What kind of excuse is that?

Azel: More importantly, I'm hungry. I thank the ever-dedicated Emma for today's meal.

(… It's bothering me.)

…

On another night,—

(… Mm… I'm awake…)

When I woke up while it was still dark outside, I noticed Azel wasn't next to me.

I sat up and looked around to see that the balcony window was left slightly ajar.

Sitting by the window, illuminated by the massive moon worshipped by the people of Tanzanite, Azel was engrossed in reading a book. He was dressed in his familiar divine robes because as he always said, "it's best to wear comfortable clothes at night".

He didn't to seem to notice I was awake.

(He looks so serious.)

Although I was mesmerised by his beautiful profile under the moonlight, I quietly slipped out of bed.

I crept closer to him silently, but right when I was about to reach him, Azel turned to face me.

Azel: Are you an assassin or something?

Emma: You noticed.

Azel: Of course I did.

He claimed that he noticed me approaching, but he hurriedly shut the book and hid it behind his back.

Regardless of whether he realised this or not, his behaviour only made me all the more suspicious.

Emma: What book were you reading?

Azel: … A highly classified document related to national secrets. If an outsider saw it, I couldn't let them live.

Emma: Reading something so important at this late hour?

Azel: Is there a problem?

Emma: Azel… has anyone ever told you you're bad at keeping secrets?

Azel: Never. If anyone dared to, they'd be thrown into a nightmare so torturous they'll never wake again.

Azel stood, effortlessly scooped me up in his arms and tossed me onto the bed.

I tried protesting that our conversation wasn't over, but before I knew it, I was swiftly wrapped in a blanket and completely immobilised.

Azel: Go to sleep. You will sleep right now. Immediately.

Emma: I'm wide awake.

Emma: … Maybe I'll fall asleep if you sing me a lullaby.

Azel: What age toddler are you?

Emma: There are adults who fall asleep to music too, you know?

Azel: … Why would a god bother to know the customs of mere human beings?

(If I say this, he'll definitely get annoyed and give up on making me sleep.)

(Then I can press him further about that book—)

Just as I was getting ready to interrogate him, Azel started singing with an awful facial expression.

The lyrics didn't sound like they belonged to any modern language, so I couldn't understand them, but his deep and calm voice sang so beautifully and soothingly it felt almost magical.

(I didn't think he'd actually sing. He's surprisingly good at it too.)

(… He looks really embarrassed… but this is exactly what makes him so…)

(Oh well. I guess I'll let him off the hook tonight because of this song.)

…

However, Azel's suspicious behaviour continued.

… To the point where I began to worry he might be dealing with a serious problem.

…

Emma: You're coming clean about everything today, Azel.

Azel was acting strange that day too, sneaking around in the hallway.

Determined not to let him slip away, I spread my arms wide and blocked his path.

Azel: What's this about…? "Come clean"? I haven't done anything.

Emma: That's a lie. You threw something out of the window the moment you saw me, didn't you?

Azel: It was trash.

Emma: Then I'll go pick it up.

Azel: No need.

Emma: …

Azel: …

(We're just going in circles at this rate.)

Emma: Azel—

At the same time I opened my mouth to put an end to this, Azel grabbed my hand and pushed me against the wall.

(!?)

With both my hands pinned, I was caught between Azel and the wall.

(… What's this all of a sudden?)

His mysterious eyes resembling a night sky full of stars gazed deep into mine.

His beautiful hair, shimmering dreamily under the sunlight, gently brushed against my cheek.

(He might be able to hear my heartbeat from this close…)

Azel: …

Emma: … Uhh…

Azel: …

Emma: Azel?

Azel: …

Emma: "Damn it… I pinned her against the wall without thinking, and now I have no idea how to explain myself."

Azel: That's not it. Stop doing that annoyingly accurate impersonation.

Emma: Yeowch!

After giving my cheek a hard pinch, Azel gently rested his forehead against mine and sighed.

Azel: It's just—…

[heavy-draw]

While Shamir herself never made use of a horse on the battlefield, she had plenty of experience from dealing with mercenaries who did. As a result, it had become easier for her to pick up on the subtle tells that the animals had when it came to their temperaments-- fear, hunger, pain, contentment... if you knew what to look for, it wasn't hard to believe that animals could be far more expressive than their human counterparts. Her fingers brushed through the horse's mane, feeling the tremors in its muscular frame. Its eyes were wide, filled with a mix of fear and confusion, its breath coming in shallow, rapid bursts. Something had certainly spooked it, though there hadn't been an obvious answer... This wasn't the first case of one of the cavalry horses knocking their rider off, and it was widespread enough for Shamir to believe that there was a larger force at play here. "When did this start?" She called out to one of the stablehands, who raised his head to blink at her. "He's scared out of his mind. Don't tell me you didn't notice?" The young man stammers for a moment, averting his gaze. "What? N-no-- I mean... it's been a few days at this point. He's not the only one, either... it's the whole stable that's acting this way. I don't know what's wrong, and I've tried to figure it out!" Shamir clicked her tongue at that, murmuring a few soft words to the nervous steed. Concerning, indeed. It could be something as simple as predators lingering about... but if that was the case, it was time to subdue all of them. On the bright side, the horse had seemed to calm down a bit. Not enough to be completely approachable, though; she wouldn't risk it. Especially not with a student in tow. She's sure that they'd be more than capable of fending for themselves, but at this point in time, it would be wisest to NOT put either of them in the way of avoidable danger.

This could easily be more complicated than it seemed. They needed to save their energy and time for the worst possibilities. "Alright. Azelle, was it?" Shamir called over her shoulder as she adjusted the quiver at her hip. Tracking was a specialty of hers at least, but... that's if there was even anything to track. "Let's see what we can find out from the locals. Keep your eyes and ears open, alright?"

@azelfire

save a horse ride a--

Distress: Riding +1 w/ @azelfire

[caffedrine]

Character vs. Event – The Beast wants to Lure the Rabbit Silvio Ricci vs Azel Radwan - Summary

If you trust me to know what I'm doing, then we have both made a huge mistake. I cannot guarantee accuracy for this summary, or even grammatical correctness.

Please support Cybird and pick up this event when it makes it to the English Server

Also - Silvio is super hot in this one. Don't get distracted by the sexy new princes, Silvio brings it.

This is set without Silvio or Azel being romanced.

What if Emma had gone on to purchase books in Benitoite on Akatsuki’s behalf?

After completing Akatsuki’s errand, Emma briefly stopped by the main port before heading back to the inn. The port seemed unusually busy, and Emma overhears some of the crowd talk about the living god, also mentioning that Silvio had personally come to welcome him.

Emma is also curious by the talk of the living god, and wonders if this means Silvio is just ahead.

She had briefly met Silvio a short while ago when she had played the role of ‘Belle’ in Rhodolite. Silvio, First Prince of Benitoite, had tormented her many times, and possibly because he was suspicious of her secret role, had made her his caretaker. Thankfully Rio had protected her, but unfortunately, he was not around to shield her now.

It would have been smart for Emma to turn away and go to the inn, but she was curious about how her former acquaintance was doing. Curiosity drew her into the crowd, and with some luck, she was in a prime position to see Silvio.

Benitoite knights had formed an empty zone, in which Silvio stood looking at a large ship bearing the emblem of Tanzanite. Following his gaze, Emma saw a single figure move down the ship’s gangway.

At first glance, he was an otherworldly man with features she has never seen before. His hair was silver, and his eyes were a mysterious color that she couldn’t quite place but was striking even from a distance.

Around her, the crowd confirms that this new person is the living god, and Emma recalls hearing that there was a real god in human form in Tanzanite. From the looks of him, she could believe it.

As he came closer to them, Emma could see that the Living God’s expression was full of compassion and love that surrounded everyone, starkly contrasted to Silvio’s tyrannical expression.

(something wicked this way comes)

With a politeness that took Emma by surprise, Silvio welcomed Azel, the Living God, to Benitoite. Azel kindly thanked Silvio for his gracious hospitality and prayed that all the people of Benitoite would be blessed.

Emma is surprised, she didn’t think Silvio was capable of being so polite and gracious. At least, he had never appeared that way in front of the Princes of Rhodolite. The Living God must be something if he could draw this personality out of Silvio.  It gives her goosebumps.

Just as Azel begins to accompany Silvio to a nearby carriage, a man behind Emma shouts that Azel is a fraud and has bankrupted him. He demands his money back and starts lashing out, pushing hard at the crowd and Emma.

Benitoite knights rush over to the man, and the combined commotion of the rampaging man, and the knights trying to restrain him send Emma landing on the ground hard. Just as she realizes that she’s technically in the open space, Silvio recognizes her.

Silvio rushes towards her, demanding to know what the hell she’s doing here. He swears at her, and Emma is almost relieved to see the normal Silvio. Emma begins to apologize, assuming he’s upset because of how close she is, but Silvio shushes her, examining her leg, which she only begins to notice is badly scraped up and bleeding through her skirt.

Before Emma can react, Silvio bends down and scoops her up into his arms. Emma demands to know what he’s doing, but Silvio shushes her, threatening to toss her into the sea if she doesn’t calm down. Emma ignores the threat and tells him that she’s not so injured that she can't walk. She points out that he’ll attract undue rumors if they see him right now.

Emma flails more, but Silvio shrugs off her movements. He tells her that he isn’t going to follow any orders from her, and besides, no one cares about them right now. Emma stops and looks at the crowd, and sees that indeed, everyone is focused on Azel.

Azel is telling the crowd that if anyone has a grievance to air with him, to please follow the formal procedures to request a meeting. He promises that as long as time permits, he will listen to all the people of Benitoite. But he would hate for his beloved people to be injured further by this outburst, and to be patient with him.

Like a miracle, the crowd quieted down like the receding of the tide. Even Emma feels like her heart quiet down, and she wonders if this is a miracle from god. Silvio tells Emma that they’ll take this opportunity to leave quickly. Emma asks where he’s taking her, and Silvio responds that he’s sure as hell not going to stand here holding her forever, so they’ll just go back to the castle.

Emma tells Silvio to think things through and put her down. Silvio tells her to stop ruining his mood and takes a threatening step towards the sea. Emma doesn’t say anything, and Silvio looks satisfied.

In the carriage, Emma tells Silvio that she’s grateful for his kindness, but she absolutely hates this. Silvio tells her that she only has herself to blame, making him get violent in front of a state guest. Azel tells Silvio that he absolutely doesn’t mind, in fact, this sounds like a profitable story.

Once he pushed her into the carriage, Silvio had one of his servants retrieve a first aid kit and hand it to him. When she saw Silvio’s wicked grin, Emma immediately understood what was going to happen next and grabbed the hem of her skirt to hold it down. Just as she expected, Silvio forcefully tried to pull up her skirt.

All in front of the Living God, sitting across from them.

The fight between Emma and Silvio was so childish, she wanted to cry. She tell Silvio that she can take care of this herself, but Silvio insists that he’s a better medic than she is, and watching a amateur fumble about will only irritate him.

Emma tells him that’s fine, she’ll just get off his carriage, go home, and take care of it herself. Silvio rejects this idea.

Emma demands to know why, and Silvio snaps back that she’s very annoying, and if she resists any further, he’ll tear off her skirt. Emma wails that Silvio is truly the worst. She wonders if this is revenge for their time together in Rhodolite where she had been avoiding being his hostess.

Finally Azel speaks up, telling them to give it up. Silvio appreciates the backup, but Emma points out that he might have been talking to Silvio.

Azel notes that he is always troubled by the worries of stupid people. But, for her, he will lend a special hand.

Emma was surprised at the words, but Azel’s serene, benevolent expression never wavered. In the shaking carriage, Azel stands and moves to sit on Emma’s other side, trapping her between him and Silvio.

Silvio complains that with all three of them on the same seat, the carriage’s balance will be off. Azel tells Silvio in that case to go ahead and move to the empty bench.

Smiling sweetly at Emma, Azel asks her name, and introduces himself as Silvio’s personal fortuneteller, to Silvio’s displeasure. He asks since when were they that close, and Azel asks if Silvio is cheating on him with other fortunetellers. He laments that Silvio is so cruel even though Azel tries so hard for him.

Silvio protests, for one, he doesn’t even believe in fortunetelling. Azel smiles and exclaims that he is the only fortuneteller in the world that Silvio trusts. Silvio sighs in defeat.

Taking advantage of their distraction, Azel jerks the hem of Emma’s skirt up, exposing her wound.

Mockingly pitying her, Azel takes the medicine from Silvio, and begins to treat Emma as a bad feeling wells up in her. Unfortunately, she is trapped between Silvio and Azel and has no choice but to accept having her wound treated.

Azel treats her wound without the slightest show of compassion or mercy. It hurts badly enough that Emma yowls in pain, and clings to Silvio, who recoils and demands that she stop touching him. Through her tears, Emma apologizes, but cannot bring herself to let go of Silvio.

Azel is as efficient as a battle nurse and bandages her wound with gauze. By the time he finishes, the pain recedes. In a voice very different than the serenely benevolent one he’s used up to now, Azel mocks her for crying over being treated.

Then, with a very tender and compassionate gesture, Azel wipes the tears away from Emma’s eyes, and she wonders if the painful treatment was a dream. Emma thanks Azel, and he assures her that as Silvio’s precious friend, she is his sucker- wait, he meant friend, too.

Silvio breaks the moment by demanding Emma get off of him. As Emma scoots away, Silvio flings himself to the corner of the bench, but not before she notices how red his face is. When she brings it up, Silvio threatens to throw her out of the carriage, and Emma wonders if he’s embarrassed.

No, he’s a tyrant, it must be something else.

Azel takes this moment to bring up the cost of the treatment. He leans close to her ear and whispers a number so large that Emma feels herself grow faint. A light seems to shine from behind Azel as he explains that god has just used his own hands to treat her, so if anything, this is a discount.

Emma asks Silvio to save her, but he replies that this is her own fault for refusing to let him treat her. He goes on to explain that as gods go, Azel is pretty evil.

Emma realizes that Azel just scammed her.

Azel assures Emma that he’ll create a loan document so that she can pay her debt back in installments. Emma asks if there's anything other than money that can pay him back, and Azel considers this before agreeing. He’ll forgive the debt if Emma agrees to become his exclusive maid (slave) during his stay. Emma is confused, he said the word ‘maid’ but she’s pretty sure he meant ‘slave’.

Silvio cuts in, he has already hired the most skilled maid in Benitoite to serve Azel. There’s no need for Azel to put up with Emma’s amateurish attempts.

Azel disagrees, he’s grown fond of Emma. She’s not intimidated by princes or gods, so he’s certain he’ll feel very comfortable with her. Then again, if Silvio has that strong of an opinion, he doesn’t mind Silvio paying Emma’s debt on her behalf.

However, he knows Silvio is the type of person who doesn’t waste money. If Silvio is going to help this woman personally, does it mean that he’s in love with her?

Silvio immediately denies this, and Azel shrugs. It’s too bad, it sounds like Emma is going to be his new maid (slave) after all.

Emma agrees to serve Azel and have him waive the costs to treat her. Mentally she apologizes to Akatsuki, it looks like it will be a while before she is able to return to Rhodolite.

At the Benitoite Castle, Azel thanks Silvio for his hospitality, he always loves the food served to him. Silvio assures him that serving him is absolutely no trouble, and to eat as much as he likes.

Emma, now wearing a maid uniform, is their waiter and has been serving them since they first set foot in the castle. Thanks to her time as Belle, she was actually doing quite well. However, she is concerned that there are no other servants besides her, as everyone else has been dismissed. She is kept very busy, working by herself.

Azel and Silvio begin to talk seriously. Azel talks about an easy mark - er, merchant, who is still active. Silvio agrees, they’re using Azel’s name to sell expensive products. Unfortunately, while immoral, this isn’t illegal in Benitoite, and they need to get them on something else. He asks if Azel needs his help, but Azel refuses. Instead, he would like Silvio to do that favor he asked for.

Emma more or less understands the problem. She wonders if the whole point of Azel’s trip is to stop the sale of fake holy artifacts and imagines that there will be a lot of trouble ahead. She idly refills Silvio’s rose wine as Azel turns to her and explains that she’ll be helping him.  Emma starts and nearly empties the wine pitcher on Silvio. She asks if she misheard, but nope, Azel is going to use her for his job tomorrow.

Silvio immediately grabs her hand and cuts in. He was actually planning on having Emma help him tomorrow. Besides, he saw her first, Azel should back down.

Azel asks how much he should sell Emma to Silvio for. He reminds them that he’s an evil god. Silvio clicks his tongue, and Azel turns to Emma. He doesn’t mind if Emma chooses between them.

Silvo End

Emma is paralyzed by the sudden choice. She decides that in the end, she has to pay back her debt to Azel, so she slowly turns to him.

Behind her, Silvio clicks his tongue and tells Azel he understands, all he has to do is buy her. Azel smiles beautifully, remarking that it’s about time that Silvio’s made up his mind, no, Lord Gold*, that is. Silvio grumbles for Azel to stop calling him that.

Magnanimously, Azel agrees to stop, after all, he is very loyal to Silvio. He then praises Silvio for saving his dear friend. And to not ruin the moment, Azel will give him the bill later. This is not included in the compensation they’ve already arranged. Silvio grumbles about how stubborn Azel is.

Silvio then smiles arrogantly at Emma, and she wishes that she had gone with Azel instead. She has moved from the frying pan into the fire.

Silvio tells Emma that just as Azel once said, he doesn’t waste his money. He intends for her to work off her debt completely, and he plans on enjoying this.

The next morning, Emma is summoned to Silvio’s bedroom, and with a wicked grin he explains that today she is his personal maid. He warns her not to run her mouth with him. Emma would love to complain, but since Silvio holds a sizeable debt over her head, she cannot oppose him. Very politely, Emma agrees and tells Silvio to go ahead and give her any orders he wants. She goes full maid mode and calls him ‘master’.

This wipes the smirk off of Silvio’s face and he complains about it being weird when she’s like this. Emma reminds him that he has just told her to be his maid, so what does he want her to do? And why does he look so frustrated when she’s obedient?

Silvio has an errand for Emma to run. He hands her a list of book titles. Azel has requested these particular books from Silvio, but they’re rare enough that no single bookstore has everything. Silvio needs someone to go to the various bookstores in Benitoite and cobble the list together.

Emma is somewhat surprised; this is pretty much her normal job. She was worried that Silvio would give her a horrible onerous task, but this lines up with her abilities perfectly. She assures Silvio that she will be back by nightfall, accepting the list. She will pay off the debt with time to spare.

So why is Silvio accompanying her on this errand? When she asks, Silvio tells her that it’s none of her business. Emma laughs and teases him, maybe he’s coming with her because he cant bear to part with her so quickly?

Silvio reaches out and grabs her head, crushing it in a painful grip. He tells her to focus less on him and more on her task.

Emma asks if this means that Silvio doesn’t want to leave her alone. Silvio is not amused by this and begins to shake her head, blurring her vision. She complains that her eyes are shaking, and Silvio warns her to stop saying weird things.

Fine, fine, Emma will let it be. She’ll pretend there’s nothing weird or unusual about Silvio following her on her errand. That he assigned her.

The first bookstore she stops by was one she had purchased books from Akatsuki the previous day. The bookstore owner recognizes her, and asks if the rumor is true, is she now dating Silvio? To Emma’s horror, the owner explains that the rumors were that when the Living God arrived in Benitoite, Silvio and Emma had an intimate moment. Publicly. And now, the rumors say that Silvio has both the Living God and his mistress as guests at the Benitoite Palace.

Anyway, here is the book Emma requested. Please, give the bookstore owner’s regards to Prince Silvio.

Immediately upon exiting the bookstore, Emma tells Silvio that they need to break up.

Silvio looks stunned as he accepts the book from Emma. He recovers enough to remind Emma that they can’t break up, they’re not dating in the first place.

Yeah, well, there are rumors going around. Rumors . . . from Silvio’s very nonchalant reaction that he already knew about.

Yep, according to public opinion, Emma is Silvio’s woman. At least in Benitoite.

Okay, then they should break up publicly.

Silvio refuses to take orders from his newest maid. Instead, they should go to the next store.

As they walk, Emma is aghast at how fast these rumors are spreading. Oh, she just knew something bad would come from Silvio picking her up at the port. And now, she has become hyper-aware of all the people they pass by, feeling their gazes slide over her. Oh, what would happen if the rumors of her being Silvio’s woman spread past the Benitoite capital?

As if reading her mind, Silvio wonders what would happen if that dog hears the rumors too. He slips an arm around Emma’s waist and bends down to whisper in Emma’s ear. It occurs to her that, from the right angle, this looks like a intimate moment.

Silvio is doing this on purpose.

The longer they stay together, the faster the rumors will spread. Now Emma has just one last resort. She points and shouts that Azel is right there across the street.

This breaks Silvio’s attention, Azel should be in a different part of the city all together, dealing with . . . And Emma is gone, sprinting off down an alley. She thinks she heard Silvio scramble after her, but she continues full speed ahead, and practically dives into the first store around a corner. Gasping for breath, she waits, but it seems like she has shaken off Silvio.

After a moment, Emma decides to look around the store. It’s a general store, full of cute accessories that make her think of Benitoite. Something on the shelf catches her attention.

After Emma makes her purchase, she leaves the store, confident in her escape skills and planning on finishing her errand. She gets as far as the main street before a voice calls out to her. Before she can even look, she is dragged into a different alley and pushed roughly against the wall.

It’s Silvio.

And he is pissed.

Maybe Emma would have been better off if just a regular kidnapper had found her instead.

Silvio hopes that Emma is prepared to face the consequences of her actions. Emma is, but she doesn’t regret trying to stop the spread of the rumors. If it gets out that she is Silvio’s mistress, her marriage prospects will plummet.

Silvio is aghast, is that what she cares about? Hasn’t it got through her head why he’s spent his entire day with her yet?

Realizing what he just said, Silvio shuts his mouth, then swears, he didn’t mean that last bit to slip.

In case Emma hasn’t realized it, Silvio is a prince. And, if that’s not enough, he’s rich. Like, really rich. The rumors have already spread, and right now, she’s the most kidnappable person on the continent.

Oh. Well, maybe if Silvio had said that from the start, Emma would have been more cooperative. But, from his expression right now, Silvio looks embarrassed. It’s not something she is used to from this arrogant tyrant.

Emma apologizes, she didn’t realize he was worried about her. Silvio quickly denies this, he was never worried. He just would be upset if something happened. Totally different emotion.

Silvio is still a tyrant, which Emma hates, but still . . . Emma thanks him.

She pulls her recent purchase out of her pocket – a trinket with a ship motif. The little ship looks like it’s about to have a grand adventure, and looking at it, all she can think of is Silvio’s face.

Emma explains that she realized that back when she got injured Silvio hadn’t hesitated before running to tend to her. In the end, he had even paid Azel for treating her. But, in retrospect, she had never thanked him, so she wanted to give him this as a token of her thanks. Also, she might have been holding on to it to soothe Silvio’s ire when he eventually caught up to her after she escaped him.

But it wasn’t a lie that she wanted to thank him.

Silvio stares at the tiny ship resting in the palm of his hand, frozen. His ocean-blue eyes are wide and he seems very surprised. As the silence continues, Emma grows embarrassed. Maybe he dislikes the trinket – it’s nothing to a millionaire like Silvio. She tells Silvio that if he doesn’t like it, she’ll just take it back.

Silvio immediately snatches the trinket away, holding it above her head. He never said that he didn’t want it. He smiles as Emma grasps at air.

It is a very silly trinket, but Silvio will accept it as his due. Emma thinks he looks surprisingly happy, and her heart skips a beat at a smile she never saw back in Rhodolite.

No, that’s stupid. What’s the point of getting excited about seeing one nice smile on a tyrant’s face? She’s being far too lenient with him.

After this little adventure, Silvio actually listened to Emma’s request, and although he still followed her, he managed to do so without being seen. She was able to finish purchasing the last of the books on the list by the time the sun began setting over the sea.

Emma returns with Silvio to the castle, then cheerfully announces that her job is over. Since she’s paid off her debt, she’ll go ahead and return to the inn she’s staying at.

Emma is somewhat sad; this is probably the last time she will ever interact with Silvio. As a bookstore clerk, she cannot easily approach him, as they practically live in different worlds. She wishes him well, and turns to leave.

Silvio abruptly grabs her, wrapping his arms around her from behind.

Did Emma seriously think she could just leave like that?

Silvio Epilogue

Emma met Silvio when the King of Rhodolite died and she had been nominated as Belle to choose his replacement. Silvio had come up with many tricks to try to get her to reveal her identity, leading them to but heads more often than not. If she had to describe their relationship, Emma would say that it was not a good one.

So how exactly did she end up like this?

His arms are wrapped around her like a backward hug, and he’s asking why she thinks she can just leave like that. Emma points out that she completed his errand, and her job is over.

Silvio half-laughs, does Emma really think that all she needed to do was run a single errand to pay him back? As his exclusive maid, she hasn’t even served him dinner yet.

Silvio has a lot of maids in the castle, right? Maid who would be thrilled to serve him any meal he would like, right? Why does he want Emma? Silvio asks if this is how Emma pays back her debts, by mouthing off to the people to whom she owes money.

Silvio doesn’t need Emma to serve him dinner. Emma figures that this is just revenge for everything that happened between them in Rhodolite.

Emma thought she would be free after she served him dinner, but then Silvio’s official duties as the Prince of Benitoite began. He had her sorting documents, organizing files, and assisting with enough paperwork to make her dizzy.

By the time most of the paperwork had been conquered, Azel had returned to the castle. While Silvio listened to Azel’s report, Emma served tea, sweets, and a shocking amount of gold bullion to Azel. Honestly, there was enough gold to last a person an entire lifetime.

Silvio is pleased with Azel’s report, the business was destroyed and was untraceable back to Silvio. Azel is pleased that Silvio is pleased. If Silvio has any other problems, merely contact him and Azel will come running. And, of course, that offer is extended to Silvio’s woman.

Azel is disappointed that neither Silvio nor Emma want a divination.

After the meeting, Emma accompanies Silvio back to his room, where she can hear the sound of the ocean running over the sand. He pours a drink for both of them and tells Emma to drink up. Emma asks if he normally treats his maids to alcohol, and Silvio tells her that she is fired as a maid. She’s far too cocky for the profession.

Emma has no problem with this, it was a lot of hard work.

Silvio urges Emma to drink up, he doesn’t feel like drinking alone today.

The liquor is a light sea-blue and makes her think of Silvio. Since Silvio is personally pouring her drink, she decides to accept and try it.

Silvio explains that it’s a traditional Benitoite liquor, very rare, so Emma might not get a chance to try it again. Tasting it, Emma remarks that it makes her think of the sea, a fitting beverage for Benitoite. It was very tasty and easy to drink, so Emma would have to be careful.

Silvio knocks back a shot of the liquor and pours himself another glass. Emma wonders if she should be worried.

Silvio tells Emma that she should stay at the castle tonight. Emma isn’t certain that it’s allowed, with her being a commoner and all, but Silvio insists that she is his guest. Silvio corrects her, she’s not a guest, after all, he did buy her. Emma asks what the difference is between a guest and someone in debt to him, and Silvio muses it depends on his mood at the moment.

How strange. All while they spent time together in Rhodolite, Silvio had been unpleasant and tyrannical. But right now, it could be said that they were getting along. Now that she isn’t terrified of him discovering her true role, she can see different sides of him. Maybe this playful kindness had been there back when they first met, and Emma had been too wary to notice it. For one, she never would have guessed that he would immediately come to her aid if she was injured.

These thoughts stir confusing feelings inside her, so Emma washes it down with another drink.

When Emma laughs softly and admits to Silvio that she never would have imagined that she would be in his room this late drinking with him. Maybe she had been right when they started the book-buying errand that morning, and Silvio liked being around her. Silvio disagrees and tells her not to get so cocky.

With a shrug, Emma decides that she’s been here long enough, it’s time for her to return to her room at the inn.

But as soon as she sets her empty glass on the table, Silvio grabs her wrist.

Silvio reminds her that they already talked about this, he doesn’t want to see her get kidnapped. Emma asks if that’s the only reason he’s acting like this.

Silvio’s brows furrow, and there’s an awkward silence between them.

Huh, Emma would have thought that Silvio would swear at her and deny it or something. She wonders what Silvio is thinking about during this long silence and decides to back down. She assures Silvio that she does not doubt that he only wants her to stay out of concern for her safety. But Silvio’s grim expression doesn’t go away.

Trying to lighten the mood, Emma reaches out to poke Silvio where his brows are furrowed, but he suddenly leaps backward as if she burned him. From across the room, Silvio shouts at her to not touch him without permission.

Emma blinks owlishly at him, then recalls that time when Azel was treating her wound in the carriage how he had panicked when she clung to him. She asks if Silvio cant bear to be touched, but he denies this, looking everywhere other than her eyes.

This is a weakness.

Emma can’t help but grin wickedly. Silvio grows more upset and yells that she is getting carried away without being aware of her place. Emma shrugs, she’s probably drunk so what she says and does doesn’t count.

Silvio’s frown curls into a grin.

It doesn’t count?

Uh-oh.

With a wicked expression, Silvio stalks towards her, placing his glass on the table. Feeling wary, Emma steps backward, only to topple down on top of his bed.

Silvio pushes her down, hovering over her and caging her with his arms and legs. His face is close enough for the tips of their noses to touch, and Emma and Silvio breathe the same air. When Emma tries to move away, Silvio grabs her hand tightly. Emma can’t see anything other than Silvio, cant hear anything other than their heartbeats. Their fingers are tangled together, both of their bodies hot enough for sweat to bead along Emma’s brow.

Silvio laughs, Emma really is drunk.

Emma would like to respond to it, but every time Silvio exhales, his breath scatters her thoughts.

Silvio sighs, Emma can’t leave now, not with that expression. He roughs up her hair, tangling it with his fingers. Emma asks what he means, and Silvio tells her to stop talking, or else he’ll take a page out of Azel’s book and increase her debt to him.

Once he has tangled Emma’s hair to the point that it looks more like a bird’s nest than a hairstyle, Silvio gets off of Emma, letting her up. Emma sits up and begins righting her hair, and Silvio starts helping.

Emma tells Silvio she really should leave now.

At the very least, she can’t stay here. Her heart is doing backflips, and she cannot describe the feelings washing through her. Standing up, Emma reaches Silvio’s bedroom door, but he calls out to her, stopping her.

Silvio tells Emma that the next time she comes to Benitoite, she really should stop by the castle and say ‘hello’. Besides, he owns her loan, she can always come by and work it off.

What a tyrant.

Emma agrees that she doesn’t want to be in debt to him until she dies, so she will stop by the castle. Unless she forgets.

Silvio grumbles for her not to forget him.

Well, the debt, at least.

Silvio pours himself another drink, and Emma begins to leave for real, only for something to catch her eye. That trinket she had bought for Silvio on a whim sparkles on his desk in a prominent position.

She has no idea what her feelings for Silvio are.

Azel End

The day starts with Emma chasing after the Living God. She calls out for him to please slow down, but Azel refuses to stop his powerwalk.

Even though Azel is not running, his legs are long enough that his stride propels him farther than Emma. Even though they had left at the same time, Emma has to rush after him. Very kindly, Azel sympathizes with having stubby legs and warns Emma that if she can’t keep up with him, he’ll just have to leave her behind.

Eventually, Azel makes his way through a back alley, but there is no sign of anyone else there. Just ahead of her, Azel pulls to a stop, and Emma can make out two men guarding a door. Azel apologizes for intruding, and as both the guards start at the sight of the Living God, he opens the door and walks in.

Catching up, Emma breathlessly repeats Azel’s platitude and runs in after him.

There are many people inside, and they are all reacting in surprise to Azel’s sudden entrance. Some are shouting with joy, and others are crying as if they are experiencing a divine visitation. A very different reaction than the one Azel received at the port. Emma feels like she is watching drowning men clutch at straws.

Azel didn’t seem to even notice the crowd. Instead, without pause, he marches towards the stage.

Emma sees a large vase in the middle. She imagines that this is a fake holy item being auctioned under Azel’s name.

Standing on the stage, Azel calls for the crowd to quiet down. He is very sad, he has heard that there is the sale of holy items, and he sees that the rumors are true. Do they not understand that God’s protection isn’t bought with money?

Did Azel hit his head while outside of Emma’s eyesight? She stares at him in disbelief as he continues. Azel assures the people that God doesn’t need money, otherwise those without money would not receive any protection. God loves all and protects all despite their wealth or status.

Azel’s face and voice is full of compassion and love, if this was the first time Emma interacted with him, she would even believe him. Surprisingly, even after interacting with him, Emma can feel Azel’s voice penetrate her heart and is filled with a holy sensation. Like her, everyone around seems to be holding their breath, waiting for Azel’s next words.

Well, not everyone. The merchants selling the fake divine artifacts try to flee. This snaps the crowd out of their trance and as one they turn against the merchants and begin to form a mob, demanding their money back.

The merchants run out the back way, and the crowd rushes after them, leaving behind an empty auction area of only Emma and Azel. She asks if Azel plans on chasing after the merchants as well, but Azel refuses. He’s not stupid enough to leave behind all this money.

(Azel isn't upset that people are scamming others, he's upset that he's not getting a cut)

Emma asks what meant a few minutes earlier when he was saying that God doesn’t need money.

Well, that was then, and this is now.

Azel beckons Emma forward, her job starts now. It’s easy enough, even an idiot like her can do it. Leaping down from the stage, Azel starts pushing Emma ahead of him into a side door she missed earlier. Emma recognizes one of the merchants in the room and asks how Azel knew that he was there. Azel reminds her that he is a God and tells his slave maid to look sharp. Emma snaps back to her senses and locks the door behind them.

Emma was glared at by the merchant, but Azel moves to stand between them, blocking their line of sight. Azel greets the scammer and drapes a companionable arm around his shoulders and forces him to sit at a nearby table. He and Azel should have a fun chat together.

The scamming merchant’s face is pale.

Azel knows this person. He knows his name, his home address, his workplace, where his family lives, and so on. It seems this merchant has several gambling debts and is having trouble making ends meet. But none of this is Azel’s concern, right? He only care that he was using his name in selling these goods. The compensation should be about . . .

Emma cant hear what Azel says next, but the merchant’s face tightens like he bit into something sour. Emma feels sympathetic with the merchant, but she can only pity him so much, as he was obviously running a terrible business.

Azel is continuing, loud enough for Emma to overhear. Since the merchant has extorted a lot of money out of people using these false holy relics, and he had a recent run of luck at the gambling hall, this is an easy price to pay.

The merchant asks why Azel would ask for that much, and Azel replies that he is the Living God. And, with his divine foresight, he has prepared a loan document for the merchant. He’s a kind god, so he’ll only punish him monetarily. He smiles at the man, as sweet as if a halo was over his head.

Suddenly the merchant hurls himself off the chair, kicking it away and barreling towards Emma, who is directly in front of the door. Azel calls out to Emma that this is her time to shine.

What? Whaaat? This is impossible!

But, if Emma lets this merchant get away, she will never be released from her debt. Thinkign quickly, she grabs a nearby broom and braces herself to whack him.

And then she sees the knife in the merchant’s hand.

Oh. She’s probably going to die.

Noooo! She can’t give up now! Not after all those self-defense classes they made her take while she was Belle! Emma kills the fear in her heart, raising the broom, ready for a broom to knife fight with the merchant.

Suddenly a chair flies from behind the merchant, hitting him hard enough to knock him to the ground. Azel steps on the merchant’s head, grinding his face into the floor, asking if he’s an idiot as well as an incompetent.

Emma wonders if that last bit was directed towards her and not the merchant. At least, Azel is looking at the merchant instead of her.

The benevolent façade is gone, and the change is so complete Azel looks almost like a completely different person.

Azel asks if the merchant thought that he truly could run away from Azel. Does he think that God is that compassionate? That is a ridiculous thought, no God could be that convenient to humanity. The merchant has just made Azel his enemy, he should know the weight of that decision.

Azel is disgusted that scum like this merchant is using God’s name to exploit others. He’s now changed his mind, the loan document is not enough for the merchant to pay for his sins. Adding the crime of pointing a knife at what belongs to Azel, all the merchant’s wordly possessions will be confiscated to pay for the disrespect.

Azel then begins to dig through the merchant’s pockets, eventually pulling out a rusty key and tossing it to Emma. Azel glares at the merchant lying on the ground one last time before standing up, using the merchant as a stepstool.

They find the safe, full of an eye-watering amount of money. Emma thought Azel would keep all of the wealth for himself, but instead he instructs her to call for the knights; they’re going to return the money to the victims of this merchant’s fraud.

That said, Emma did notice Azel taking some for himself.

This was all legal, as Emma would eventually find out. The document Azel made the merchant sign proclaimed that he transferred all his wealth to Azel. Everyone, including the responding knights, bowed down in gratitude to Azel.

Everyone except Emma.

When they are finally alone in the carriage, Emma asks Azel, by chance, if he’s actually really evil. Azel laughs and admits that he was wondering what she would say. Then his smile disappears, and he warns Emma not to say anything else. She has a flash of Azel stomping on the merchant’s head and she closes her eyes, cringing as if she expects Azel to get violent.

After nothing happens, Emma opens her eyes, only to see Azel looking at her with a shocked expression. It's as if her reaction was worse than an insult.

Azel tells Emma that she should learn how to run away. Think of this as a divine prophecy from god, she is going to die if she continues to stick her nose into unnecessary things. Emma asks him not to say such ominous things, and Azel tells her he would love to, but anything else would go over her stupid head.

Azel asks what she was thinking back in the room, he didn’t bring her with him to fight. Emma explains that she was thinking about her debt. Azel is exasperated, he is certain he told her that he wanted her as a distraction. Ugh, maybe it’s on him, and he said it wrong. Next time, he’ll have to dumb his instructions down for her. A lot.

Emma apologizes for causing him to worry, but Azel assures her that he was never worried about her. Instead, he was worried about Silvio, what would happen if he inadvertently offended his beloved prince by getting his favorite killed.

Azel sighs and sulkily kicks Emma’s seat. He’s going to have to add the cost of saving her to the loan document. Emma is aghast, didn’t he just receive a lot of money?

Oh Emma, no matter how much money you have, you never have enough.

Yep, Azel is definitely an evil god.

How can she say such things? And to think she’s special, she has been personally chosen by god to serve him. If anything, she should be bowing down in gratitude.

On another note, Emma’s debt is too high now to just be Azel’s maid for the day. Congratulations, she’s now his newest slave.

Emma refuses.

Azel asks if Emma plans on selling her organs then.

Emma begs god to have mercy on her. Azel smiles benevolently, God has no mercy for humans. Congratulating Emma on her newly extended loan, Azel stands and traps her between him and the carriage seat.

It occurs to Emma that it would be better if she jumped out the window of the carriage.

Gently placing his fingers against her cheek, Azel tells Emma that he intends to have her repay the loan with her body.

Azel Epilogue

Emma covers herself and glares up at Azel. He asks how conceited can she be, but Emma just reminds him that he said to pay  him back using her body.

He did. And he intends to use all of her.

There is a lot of manual labor that needs to be done, after all.

What did she think he meant? Azel laughs, he’ll just add another bit to her debt for this insult.

It wasn’t until the end of the day that Emma truly understood ‘use all of her’. She was so tired, all she wanted to do was fall face-first into bed and sleep. Instead, she limites herself to sitting down and resting her face on a nearby table.

Azel had spent the entire day performing divinations for the people of Benitoite. Since he was a god, and a foreign god at that, people outside of Tanaznite rarely had an opportunity to receive his divine guidance, making the day very busy.

Honestly, Azel would rather not do this, but he wants to keep on Silvio’s good side. As the richest man in the world, Silvio is not only Azel’s number one benefactor, he is also Azel’s friend. And, to maintain that relationship, Azel will visit and bestow God’s blessing on the citizens of Benitoite.

Unfortunately, he can only run a divination for one person at a time, he needs someone to keep everyone waiting organized. Emma will be paying back her debt by lining up supplicants, guiding them to Azel, handling complaints, and more.

All the chores that need to be done outside of divination will be handled by Emma.

Emma asks if he really intends for her to handle this by herself, and Azel does. After all, she is his only slave here in Benitoite. Of course, if she wants him to bring on another worker, they can pull out the loan document and figure out how much debt to add.

Fine. Emma will do her best, by herself.

Not only did Emma have to cater to the needs of the supplicants, but she was also in charge of Azel’s personal requests, such as bringing him food and drinks.

She can’t help but wonder about all the people waiting (impatiently) in line for hours for a chance to consult with the evil god. Maybe Azel’s divinations were really worth all the trouble.

Emma is not present for Azel’s divinations and has no idea what happens once she leads people to him. All she is aware of is how anxious the people waiting in line are, and how full of hope they are when they leave him.

At the end of the day, with her head face down on the table, Emma wonders what a divination is like.

Suddenly a breath blows into her ear, sending a shock through her. She looks up to see Azel’s face right there.

He thanks her for all of her hard work and dismisses her for the day. Emma asks after him, will he also return to his guest room?

Azel likes this room, it has a perfect view of the sunset. She watches as he leans against the window, staring out across the sea. Intrigued by the scenery God is watching, Emma joins him. She remarks that the sunset is beautiful, this room has a clear view of the horizon. Azel asks if she heard him dismiss her, but Emma insists that she likes watching the sunset.

Well, that’s fine. It’s not unpleasant watching the sunset with her.

That’s interesting, Emma thought Azel disliked her. Azel disagrees though he doesn’t like the fact that she is terrible at regulating her emotions. But think, why would he have someone he hates spend the entire day serving him? He’s not the local masochist to put up with that.

That said, Emma is staying here late. Does she want Azel to pay for her lodgings at the castle too?

Emma cuts in, she’s staying because she has a question for him. She noticed that Azel didn’t take any money for his divinations, even though he keeps on taking as much as he can from her.

Azel reminds Emma what he said earlier, God’s protection is equal. Both rich and poor have the right to seek salvation.

Well, that is the official reason, but the truth is that Azel uses divination to gather useful information. For example, he found out that Emma was the latest Belle of Rhodolite. Depending on the time and place, he could use that to extort money from her.

When Azel tells people’s fortune, people like to talk about useless things with him. And, despite his background, he can gather a lot of useful tidbits.

Azel then asks if Emma would like him to divine her fortune. He urges her to accept, for all they know, this might be the last time divine inspiration strikes him, and he might never be able to tell a fortune again.

Emma can’t believe that Azel is making this offer out of the kindness of his heart, but in the end, she is very curious. She agrees.

Azel asks what she has a question about, and Emma asks if any question is acceptable. Azel assures her that it is, after all, he is the Living God.

Okay, Emma would like to know about her future love life. It’s been on her mind to fall in love and settle down soon, and she wonders how that will go.

As soon as she asks, Azel’s benevolent smile twists into a scowl. He wonders why everyone wants to learn about their love lives, it’s really revolting to him.

He tells Emma that if she’s that concerned, go chase after Silvio. To her shock, he explains that Silvio definitely likes her, so that’s her best bet. He gives her a pitying look and says that he has lost his motivation to perform a divination for her.

Emma is upset, she was looking forward to seeing what a divination performed by the Living God would look like.

Okay, fine, if she doesn’t go after Silvio, maybe she’ll meet someone else. Whom? He doesn’t know, and he doesn’t care.

Emma argues that Azel’s prediction is far too vague, and Azel tells her that’s the beauty of fortunetelling. He then extends his hand towards Emma. He would like his fee for divining her fortune now.

Emma reminds him that his fortune-telling services are free. Azel assures her that she’s just that special – he charges friends and family more. Emma doesn’t want to be special to Azel, who is more of a fraud-scammer than a real god.

Azel clicks his tongue, Emma never learns, does she? He pinches her cheek, reminding her that he’ll add enduring insults to her overall debt. Emma argues that she wasn’t insulting him, she was telling the truth. Azel snorts, her sincerity takes a certain kind of courage, doesn’t it? This time, Azel’s smile is strange and his grip on her cheek is lighter.

If what Azel said was true and not a deception, Emma will be able to meet a suitable man with good taste. At this point, as long as he’s not Azel, Emma will be happy.

Azel tells her not to worry, he’s not interested in her romantically either. Honestly, their compatibility is the lowest possible, the world would end before they came together.

Besides, instead of think about love, Emma should use her brain to think of a way to repay her debt to Azel. Still teasing Emma’s cheek, Azel’s smile grows dark and evil. When Emma scowls at him, he only laughs.

Really, she would be happy to fall in love with anyone other than this dark-hearted evil god.

(You heard it here first, route is over, no chance of romance between these two)

[celticbotanart]

Level up!! Azelle finally got her true swashbuckler looks (aka she was adopted by her party and finally took a shower - surprise, her natural hair color WAS violet in the end!)

I'll also include the previous commission I did of her on Nov/2023, so you guys can see the glow up:

In this universe, Azelle holds a Dwarf-made spear as her weapon, so I finally was able to work with the “Dwarves aesthetics totally is Art Deco” idea I’ve seen around for a while, hehe. She still has the spear, the daggers are her alt weapons, and part of the same "series", made by the same dwarf artisans! Thank you so much once again for your ongoing support, JF 💛

commission info | patreon | twitter | Ko-fi | VGen | bluesky

[dark-frosted-heart]

Beauty and the Beast’s Last Theater - Azel Radwan (part 3/4)

As usual, can’t guarantee 100% accuracy on this

I wasn’t sure how much time had passed since Prince Azel covered my eyes with his hand.

Emma: Are we done yet?

Azel: Not yet.

Emma: …Just what…

Azel: Be quiet.

Fingers suddenly pinched my lips shut, stopping any words.

(Prince Azel mentioned “mercy”, but what kind of mercy is this?)

(...I closed my eyes and stopped speaking, and am now oddly aware of the warmth coming from his hand)

The living god’s hands felt rough, just like any other man’s.

This awkward moment only filled by the sound of breathing continued—

He soon removed his hand without any warning. I blinked a couple of times at the light from the moon shining through the windows.

While my vision was slowly adjusting to it, Prince Azel retreated to a wall and crossed his arms.

Emma: Um?

Azel: Come on, just practice already.

Emma: …I get nervous when I’m being watched.

Azel: Want to know how many will be watching that day?

(I won’t get any sleep if I do)

I shook my head and turned back toward the window, feeling a nasty stare.

(I’m not sure what happened just then…)

(In any case, let’s just dance in front of Prince Azel. Maybe he can give me some advice…)

I made up my mind, shook away any bashfulness, and tried to move my body again.

(Huh, I think I’m dancing better than I was before)

My body was nimble and I thought my awkward movements were more graceful.

(I see, I let go of a lot of stress)

(All thanks to Prince Azel’s “mercy”)

After going through the dance, I looked over at Prince Azel who was smiling gently—

Azel: You’re still terrible.

His words didn’t match his tone.

Emma: How blunt.

Azel: Would being indirect help you at all?

Emma: …Well when you put it that way…

Azel: Straighten your back, don’t bend your fingers.

Emma: L-like this?

Azel: No.

Prince Azel didn’t even bother hiding his exasperation when he sighed before coming up behind me.

(Woah…)

He lifted my hand and fixed my posture.

Emma: I see…

Azel: It’s a simple task of bending your knees while maintaining your posture.

Emma: I’ll try.

Azel: …You’re not doing it.

Emma: Woah…!

While he was supporting me, he gently pushed the back of my knee with his foot.

As I squatted down to bend my knees, I saw Prince Azel smirk from his reflection in the window.

Azel: Are you planning on showing off a dance while bending forward to tourists around the world?

Emma: O-one more time!

Azel: Now you’re straining yourself, dummy.

(I can’t help it…Not when this close distance is making me feel funny)

I could feel his warmth on my back and his breath against my ear. Despite being some holy god, Prince Azel was no idol.

The moment I realized this, I could feel my heart race.

(No, don’t think about it. He’s just guiding me…He’s just guiding me, so stop thinking about other things—wait, guiding?)

Emma: Prince Azel, I realize it’s late to ask this, but… Will you practice with me?

The moment I asked, I felt him sigh against my ear, causing my shoulders to jolt.

Azel: I suppose trapping you in debt for a night wouldn’t be so bad.

Emma: You're pushing that on me!

Azel: So what?

Emma: Scammer.

Azel: You don’t really have a choice, do you? Unless you want to embarrass yourself on stage.

Emma: Ugh…

Azel: You should be thankful for God’s mercy.

(I can’t even think of a response)

(I’m scared of the bill afterward, but my movements have made a lot of improvement thanks to Prince Azel…)

Emma: Please…

When I begged him reluctantly, Prince Azel’s godly smile lit up.

Azel (polite): Please leave it to me. I will bear the responsibility of turning you into a full-fledged dancer.

—Several hours later.

Emma: Did you see that, Prince Azel! I did well, didn’t I?!

Azel: Yeah, sure, nice, you did it.

I was out of breath and hurting all over, but my movements were a lot better than when I first started practicing. 

I was so thrilled that I couldn’t stop smiling.

Emma: Thank you! I didn’t expect to improve so much.

Azel: You were terrible in the beginning.

Emma: Even though it’s true, I don’t think that’s necessary.

(But I’m happy. I’ll at least be able to do the bare minimum while dancing on stage)

Emma: It’s all thanks to you. I didn’t expect you to be so good at teaching.

Azel: Yeah, I put a lot of time into this. I’m going to double the bill and tack on a late night fee.

Emma: I’ll take it. I’m ready for manual labor.

I smiled triumphantly, but for some reason he turned his handsome face away.

Emma: Why are you looking away?

Azel: I can’t bear to look at how pitiful you are.

Emma: Pitiful…?

Azel: With all this mistreatment, how can you still smile optimistically like that?

Emma: Was I getting mistreated?

Azel: …The fact that you didn’t even notice is a pretty huge deal.

(It’s true that he has a sharp tongue, is Spartan-like, and is strict enough to make me miss Sariel’s lessons, but…)

Prince Azel kept practicing with me until the moon outside changed positions.

Even if he is going to bill me later, it doesn’t change the fact that he patiently taught me.

Emma: I…felt that you were more caring than I thought.

Azel: You got the wrong idea.

Emma: …Are you feeling embarr—

Azel (polite): Ah, would you like your bill now? Of course, I’ll bring it to you later.

Emma: I didn’t say…Ack.

When I thought I finally got him to turn his head, he pinched my cheek.

Prince Azel scowled.

Azel: Let me tell you one nice thing. Including those that won’t be able to fit in the venue, there will be at least 50,000 people coming to see the performance.

Emma: 50,000?!

Azel (polite): Good night, sweet dreams.

(He dropped that information at the last minute!)

Prince Azel quickly left.

He disappeared in an instant, leaving me with the huge moon.

(...In the end, he was still as mean as usual)

(Seriously…)

(Was his aim just to put me in more debt?)

--

Several days later—The creation myth festival was thriving.

I wanted to enjoy my first festival in Tanzanite, but even though I was a dancer with a minor role, the thought of being on stage in front of tens of thousands of people made me very nervous. When the beautiful moon rose, my heart was pounding.

(...There really is a lot of people)

The overwhelming excitement from the crowd around the stage made it hard to breathe.

Female dancer: Emma, it’ll be alright. Besides, that outfit suits you!

The one who tapped my shoulder while I stood at the edge of the stage was an actual dancer, someone who instructed me. 

Emma: T-thank you.

Female dancer: Hehe, we still have a while until our performance, so it’s too early to get nervous.

Emma: Ugh…Is the living god going on before us?

Female dancer: Yeah. The living god’s the star. He appears at the end to get the crowd excited. I’ll let you know when it’s our turn, but until then, enjoy the performance as a part of the audience. Since you’re not from here, you probably don’t know Tanzanite’s creation myth?

Emma: I’m embarrassed to say…Actually, I was looking forward to it.

(Perhaps the myth’s related to Prince Azel? I wonder what kind of story it is)

The sound of footsteps echoed on stage.

Everyone fell silent as the actors appeared.

Male actor: ‘This is a story from long, long ago—’

[prionsis]

Even though Rufus always thought his true place in the world was on the throne of Faerghus, although forced, he had already become used to the environment and intricacies of the piece of land he was given the day the title of Grand Duke was bestowed on him. Filled with beasts and one of the Kingdom’s most famed grounds for hunters and mercenaries, the plains of Itha were his unwilling but accepted home, once perceived as a bother- an insult to the man he was meant to be but couldn’t because of the lack of a crest, but now seen with slightly more neutrality. Perhaps, on a good day, even pleasure.

That was why beasts didn’t phase the regent, they never did. To reside and rule over Itha meant being in frequent contact with all sorts of creatures, some exclusive to those plains, most extremely dangerous and fierce. Rufus himself was no hunter, but as the lord he naturally had to get his hands dirty every now and then when necessary- and so he had fought more beasts that he bothered to count.

“Killing them is largely unnecessary, unless they are going out of their way to hunt humans for food.” This scenario was nothing new to him. At most he could say that the inhabitants of Itha were more tolerant of its fauna, as one had to be truly aware of the place they were about to move to when picking the northern plains as their home, but this debate was one he has had to handle many times before. “But leaving them be is equally ridiculous. They are declared invasive for a reason and cannot reside here.”

“But they’re doing nothin' too bad! I’d say they’re just as dangerous as your good ol’ bear or wolf, if we leave them alone we can figure out how to live with them sir!”

A frown was quick to pinch at his features. “The wolves and bears you speak of are native to this area, these beasts are not. If you find yourself fine with these creatures roaming your area then you are surely content with the idea of one of them invading your home and potentially attacking your child, no?”

The villager grew quiet, though still unwilling to give in. “...we just gotta keep them from gettin’ in-”

“Right, build steel doors then. With what money, peasant?”

His words cut through the conversation fast, deciding it was no longer worth his time. “These people think every animal is a potential pet, like a domesticated dog. Ridiculous.” Within a few steps he reached the young mage he had been set to accompany- a boy from the Black Eagles, not from Fódlan. Rufus handed the student a paper with a drawn map of the area, specific spots parked with ‘x’ as possible nests or packs where the beasts reside. “This map was given to me by some of the people on the other side of this circus. It has at the very least marked spots where the beasts seem to be inhabiting.”

“Tell me, Azelle.” Rufus looked around for a moment, before his gaze found the student once more. Arguing with kids was usually fruitless, far too quick to become emotional and believe in the simplest decisions possible, but testing wouldn’t hurt.

“What side do you believe has the best argument in this debacle?” 

"it's eating leftovers" this is a tiger do you hear yourself

closed starter for @azelfire | riding +1

[aishangotome]

Azel Radwan: Romantic Ending Epilogue

Chapter 25

Thank you @passthechloroform for providing the script for this chapter!

We reunited in Acroite and said "goodbye" once more, each of us needing to fulfill our duties.

But this wasn't a "goodbye" forever, so there were no tears. Though tinged with loneliness, we began to move forward, this time with determination.

The days of pausing and hanging my head were over.

Some time passed after that—

Azel: This is completely useless. Start over.

Kamal: What?! How many times do you think I've rewritten this?!

Azel: It's your fault for only bringing me bills full of holes.

Azel: Even if it's outside your area of expertise, think from multiple angles. As it stands, there will inevitably be those who profit and those who suffer losses.

Kamal: Ugh... Azel, you used to draft bills so easily. I guess that really was amazing.

Enis: Of course it was. If you think we can do it just like him, you're in for a rude awakening.

Enis: Let's take it one step at a time. Kamal has only recently returned to public service.

Kamal: Sigh... I understand why people want to rely on divination.

Azel: I'll still give you an oracle if you pay me. At a special price.

Kamal: No thanks. Your divination fees are so exorbitant, I'd go bankrupt in an instant.

Enis: By the way, Kamal, how long do you intend to continue with this "older sister" act?

Enis: Now that the exile order has been lifted, there's no need to disguise yourself anymore, is there?

Kamal: I like it. Because, you know, I'm really beautiful, right?

Azel/Enis: ......That's true... / ......You are.

Kamal: Oh my, thank you! I'm so happy to have such honest little brothers.

Azel: Putting aside such trivial matters, how long do you intend to stay hidden?

(He noticed after all.)

I shift my body, which had been hiding behind a pillar, waiting for their conversation to end.

I meet eyes not only with Azel, but with Kamal and Enis as well.

Kamal: Oh, it's that time already. Miss Emma, long time no see.

Emma: It's been a while. I'm sorry to interrupt your conversation.

Azel: These two are the ones interrupting.

Kamal: Did you hear that, Enis? That misogynistic Azel is bragging so openly about his love life.

Enis: Was he bragging?

Kamal: Because he's saying, "I want to spend time with you alone as soon as possible. I don't want to be disturbed by anyone!"

Enis: That's true.

Azel: No, I'm just fed up with the sheer number of consultations you two have about official duties.

Azel: Listen, I'm already dead. Don't keep relying on a dead god.

Kamal: I know, but you're so competent, Azel. It's hard for us mere mortals to fill your shoes.

Azel: That being said, don't come back again.

Kamal: Could you at least show a little remorse?

My two older brothers don't seem to intend to stay long and start walking towards the exit.

But when they pass me, they stop dead in their tracks.

Enis: Miss Emma, have you thought about that matter?

Emma: Yes. I've discussed with the owner about opening a bookstore in Tanzanite and received permission.

(That's why I came to Tanzanite this time.)

The first thing people did when they started walking in a world without God was to seek knowledge.

The era when divination provided answers without the need for thought was over, and people were desperately flocking to the few bookstores that remained.

To improve the situation, His Majesty the King, Enis, has begun inviting book merchants to settle in the country.

This time, the owner was chosen and has been approached with an offer to open a bookstore with the support of the nation.

(But the owner is a merchant who wants to travel, so he wasn't keen on opening a Tanzanite branch.)

(...Until I raised my hand.)

Emma: I'd like to discuss various conditions...

Enis: Let's make time right now. Let's go together—

Azel: I'll handle the contract procedures. Enis, you have other things to do, don't you?

Azel, who had somehow appeared behind me, places his hands on my shoulders.

I sense an unspoken pressure from him saying, "Don't go with him."

Enis: Kamal, not again.

Kamal: He's saying, "Don't take my Emma away," right? Oh my!

Azel: Yes, you don't need my help anymore, then. That's a relief. Never come to the temple again.

Kamal: I'm sorry. But you should be a little more honest with yourself.

Kamal: No girl would feel bad about being loved.

Azel: ...>:(

Kamal: See you later then. Miss Emma, let's have a tea party together another day.

Enis: I'll take my leave as well. Miss Emma, I appreciate you considering this proposal.

Perhaps sensing Azel's pressure, this time they disappear beyond the sand clouds without stopping.

(It suddenly became quiet.)

Azel: ...What's with that big luggage?

Perhaps feeling awkward as well, Azel hurriedly breaks the silence by pointing at the luggage I had left by the pillar.

Emma: Actually, I'm having trouble finding a place to live.

Emma: I've been invited to the castle, but it's not very relaxing, so would it be alright if I imposed on you here again?

Azel: I'm in debt to you anyway. I can't disobey you, can I?

Emma: Of course, if you don't like it, I can rent a place in town—

Azel: You can stay here.

With a swift motion, he picks up my luggage, and Azel strides off into the depths of the building.

But after taking a few steps, he realizes I'm not following and turns around.

(Does this mean I can live here?)

(Before, he never even bothered to check on me like this.)

I desperately try to hide my surprise and run after him, not wanting Azel to get sulky.

Emma: Thank you very much. But I feel bad taking over part of your room like before...

Emma: I was thinking of cleaning one of the rooms and using it.

Azel: It would take years. Give up on that.

Emma: I have plenty of time.

Azel: The ceiling might collapse in places that haven't been repaired, you know?

Emma: That's a little scary... but actually, I found a good spot when I was exploring the temple before.

Azel: That place is sealed off now.

Emma: ...I haven't even said which place it is yet, have I?

Azel: A god knows these things.

Emma: You said yourself before that gods are ordinary people, Prince Azel.

Azel: I don't recall saying that.

Emma: ...Could it be that...

Azel: No.

Emma: You don't want to be apart from me for even a moment—

Azel: That's why I said no!

Emma: Eek...!

The feeling of having my cheeks pulled after so long made me a little happy.

Azel: ...Well, if you insist, I'll make you a room.

Azel: But you can only use that room from morning till evening.

Emma: Why is there a restriction?

Azel: The desert nights are cold.

Emma: I know that.

Azel: ...That's why.

(...?)

Azel, who had been walking with me, suddenly starts walking ahead, leaving me behind.

Emma: Wait!

Azel: Why should I wait?

(He said I can't use the room at night because it's cold, which means...)

Emma: Is this what you wanted to say?

I reach out to Azel and hug him tightly from behind.

(I already know this warmth.)

(Because I've experienced it so many times.)

Emma: That's right, you might be just right as a substitute for a blanket at night.

Azel: ...That's not it, but if that's what you want to think, then interpret it however you like.

Emma: You really aren't honest, are you?

Azel: I'm always honest.

Emma: But I also like that part of you that absolutely refuses to be honest.

Azel: ...

Azel turns around and looks down at me.

I feel like his lips moved as if he wanted to say something, but no words come out.

(...What was he about to say?)

-

After enjoying a meal together for the first time in a while, we finished our nighttime preparations, and the evening hours arrived.

With the bookstore opening discussions concluded, I took out the alcohol I had bought in town from my bag.

Emma: Actually, I brought some alcohol as a souvenir.

Azel: What are you scheming?

Emma: ...You suspect my goodwill is a scheme? How cruel.

Azel: Am I wrong?

(As expected of Azel...)

Of course, choosing alcohol as a souvenir wasn't a whim.

Emma: Since we'll be living together again, I thought I'd like to have a heart-to-heart talk with you first.

Emma: You're not very honest, so I thought we could have a real talk with the help of alcohol.

Azel: Why should I go along with something like that?

Emma: ...Because I'm uneasy.

Emma: You're easy to understand, but you never express yourself in words.

Emma: I want to make sure I'm not doing anything you dislike without realizing it.

(Precisely because he's Azel, who has been troubled by the violence of love, I want to be sure.)

(I want to make sure that barging into the temple wasn't a nuisance, that my presence isn't a burden...)

Emma: I'll go make something to drink—

As I try to move away, he grabs my hand.

Azel: ...What about you?

Emma: Me?

Azel: There are still things I don't understand about you.

Azel: ...I'm afraid that before I know it, I'll become the perpetrator...

Azel: ...

Azel: No, forget it.

Azel lets go of my hand and takes out alcohol cups from a nearby shelf.

(...I thought he wouldn't honestly admit his love because he was embarrassed.)

(But in reality, precisely because he's been tormented by love, he's afraid to acknowledge it.)

(He's afraid that he might be unconsciously inflicting violence on me too...)

(Even though he knows it's different, maybe there are wounds that haven't healed.)

Emma: Prince Azel... Do you remember what I said when you forced that debt on me?

Azel: That I'm an evil god?

Emma: Not that...

*flashback*

Emma: Even if I'm in debt, I'll say no to things I don't like.

Emma: Don't think I'll just obey everything you say.

*flashback over*

Azel: —Ah, you did say that, didn't you?

Emma: That's the kind of person I am.

Emma: I'll say no to things I don't like. Of course, I'll also say yes to things I do like.

Emma: I don't intend to hold back, even if you're a former god.

Emma: That's why... I'd be happy if you loved me a lot.

Emma: Like Kamal said, no one feels bad about being loved.

Azel: ...

Azel turns his back to me and silently pours the alcohol into the cups.

Then, after taking a sip, he returns to my side.

Emma: Of course, you can also say no to things you don't like, Prince Azel—Whoa?!

Suddenly, he scoops me up and throws me onto the bed.

Before I can sit up, Azel leans over me and lightly pecks my lips.

Azel: How is this?

Emma: Uh...

Azel: You'll say no to things you don't like, right?

He gently nibbles at my neck, and my body heats up.

It's not an unpleasant heat; I tremble at the unfamiliar sensation, but I'm not afraid.

Emma: ...I don't... dislike it...

Azel: Very well.

(Come to think of it... Doesn't Azel become a kiss-demon when he's drunk...?)

By the time I remembered this, it was already too late. He continued to kiss my neck and slowly went down my collarbone, then trailed onto my chest over the negligee.

Emma: Nn... Um...

Azel: Ah... kisses and hugs were part of the payment terms, weren't they?

Emma: ...If I request them, will you provide them?

Azel: I'm already broke, burdened with a debt I can't repay even in a lifetime.

Azel: It doesn't matter if it increases a little more now.

Emma: Ah...

When he took my nipple into his mouth, I couldn't possibly remain calm.

A strange sensation welled up inside me, and I instinctively turned over to hide my breasts.

Azel: Why are you running away? I just want to kiss you...

Emma: It's embarrassing... Ah... Nn...

He pulls down my negligee halfway, and his lips touch my exposed back.

He kisses me greedily, over and over again, and the chill of the desert night fades away.

Emma: Nn... I thought... you disliked this sort of thing...

Azel: I only dislike women driven mad by aphrodisiacs.

Azel, transformed into a kiss-demon, places a kiss behind my ear and whispers.

Azel: This is what normal lovers do, right?

(...!)

(He finally acknowledged that we're lovers.)

(...The power of alcohol is truly great.)

His large hand caresses my leg, and—

Emma: W-wait, I'll drink some alcohol too!

Azel: Huh?

Emma: I don't dislike it, but... at this rate, I feel like I'm going to go crazy with embarrassment...!

Taking advantage of an opening, I slip out of Azel's arms and grab the alcohol cup that was on the table.

Azel: Ah...

Since there was still some left in it, I drank it all in one gulp. The sweet and refreshing liquid slid smoothly down my throat.

(Delicious...)

(...Huh?)

Emma: This doesn't seem to be the alcohol I brought...

Azel: ...

Emma: ...! There are two bottles.

The bottle cleverly hidden under the table was my souvenir, and the bottle in front of me, upon closer inspection, was just a normal drink made with fruit from the desert country.

Emma: When did you switch them...?

Azel: ....................

Emma: ...So you're not... drunk...?

Azel: ...Is that bad?

Azel turns away from me.

Azel: I'm not so much of a scumbag that I would take advantage of you while drunk.

Azel: ...Well, I think I did make a move on you before, but that was an accident.

Emma: ……

Emma: Hehe…..

Azel: If you have the composure to laugh, then I won't hold back either.

He pulls me close, and with a swift motion, my already slipping negligee falls to the floor. A scream almost escapes my lips, but it's muffled by a kiss.

Emma: Ah...Nn...

This kiss, which held a hint of hiding his embarrassment, is deeper and more insistent than before.

As I desperately tried to resist him, his large hand comes up and wraps around my breasts, fingers squeezing the tip.

Unable to resist the surging waves of sensation, I felt a strange discomfort in my lower abdomen and tightly gripped Azel's clothes.

Azel: What's wrong?

Emma: Don't say "what's wrong"...

Emma: My body... feels strange...

Azel: It feels strange, but you don't dislike it, right?

(...Well...)

His hand slips between my legs, teasing a sensitive spot, and my hips buck in response.

I desperately bite back the moans that threaten to escape, but he might have heard them anyway.

Emma: Ah... Please don't hate me even if I start acting strange, okay?

Azel: ...

Azel: Are you stupid?

Emma: Ah...

His fingers push into uncharted territory, making squelching sounds.

Azel: —...You'd be cute no matter what you do.

Along with the rising pleasure, a small voice reaches my ears...

(Real love makes me this happy, huh?)

.

.

.

Romantic Ending Letter

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to leave me a tip here or buy me a coffee through the "Leave a Tip" button on my navigation bar!

[hel-phoenyx]

Oli belongs to @thal-ent, Meili to @azeler, Domhildr to @soupedepates, the others (mentioned) to @corneille-but-not-the-author and @noa-de-cajou

___

I stopped counting the days I woke up in a cold sweat, my night clothes sticking at my skin. A nightmare. Again.

I'm not a child anymore. I am Tyrfing Harkyrsen, prince af Mundir, for Ocean's sake, I shouldn't be so scared by some kind of monster I could so easily kill. If only she played fair, and I know it's foolish to think fairness is on the table.

I hate her. I hate how she looks at me like I'm a liability she's waiting to kill. How she looks at my mother as if she's a thorn on her shoe she can so easily crush. How she looks at my father with the contempt she would give us, like we tainted him by simply existing.

I hate how she brings us in the throne room only so we can look at ashes and charred remains of what was once someone that didn't look at us with hatred in their eyes.

I hate how the flames and the screams still wake me up today.

You could have done something.

I could. Even if I am still, on the eyes of royalty, a child. I could have extinguished the flames. I could have defied the Mad Queen in a duel. I know I would have won. She is the only person I have ever wished to kill.

You could have done something.

My mother doesn't tell me but that's what I'm reading in her eyes. and she's right. I have complementary powers. One spell and the victim would be saved, or could get a dignified death. It would mark the end of our status quo, but this is what I am supposed to do, put an end to this once and for all.

You could have done-

"You couldn't have done anything."

Meili is looking at me with his unreadable brown eyes. He saw me pale and trembling this morning, and he's the only one I could talk to about that. After all, how can I tell Kaizarz I wish to see his mother's head on a pike ? And Domhildr always tells him everything. No, no, I can't shoulder them with this burden. They're too young for this.

You are, too.

"What do you mean ? I-"

"No, Tyr, I'm not talking about your strenght. Or anything, really. I just think that madwoman would not have played fair. At all."

Gustav told me the same. He told me to wait and see. But I can't wait and see. Not when the smell of charred flesh still haunts me.

I could

"I should have done something."

"And let Kaizarz witness you being the next ? I don't think so."

"I could have extinguished the flames, I have water powers for the love of Harkyr-"

"She's our queen. And an adult. She would have found a thousand ways to make you pay."

I can't telle you I would have ended her on the spot, would have been able to, right ? Death plagues my very existence since so long. Supports, friends, family, I'm not a stranger to death, not anymore. I have not taken any lives yet but my hatred burns enough for her to be the first.

It burns stronger than her own flames.

Meili is not an idiot. His expressions hardens, for a second, before he just puts a hand on my shoulder.

"Hey, Tyr, don't get distracted, alright ? Wouldn't want to earn an easy win because you're lost in thought."

"Fuck you, man."

"Try to land a hit on me and we'll talk about that."

He goes down just in time to avoid my training sword right to his neck. Damn. He got quicker since last time, I really need to catch up. I'll ask for more training on the graveyard. Even though no one there can evenly match me anymore.

Soon we're engaged in a real fight and this is the only thing I can focus on.

****

Again.

This is the third time this week. Third time since I got back to the castle. Being here awakens my visions. The screams. The pleas. The noise of burning wood and dripping blood.

I can't go yet.

He wanted me there and I still don't know why.

Why would you-

I need to go out. My clothes stick to my skin, and even though I know it's just sweat I can smell the blood and hear the flesh. Everytime I look to my hand it comes back covered in crimson. Sometimes I see purple in the hints of color.

Never the blue tint that taints my own blood.

Only theirs is important.

Mine was already spilled so many times and yet not enough.

The ocean. I need to reach the ocean. Pretty sure Kaizarz is pacing in the corridors, I can hear footsteps too heavy to be anyone else's, but it's okay, it's okay, I won't disturb you, I wont shoulder you with the weight of my burdens, I promise, I promise, I'll just go through the window-

"Hey there, Tyr !"

I can't.

She's here, flying next to my open window. Smiling like I always see her, and extending a hand.

"Trying for a nocturnal escapade ?"

The memories hurt. She's sat on the edge of the window like I was once twice countless times. Far tinier than I was, then, but with the same smile, met with the same incredulity.

"... What are you doing here, Domhildr ?"

Her smile wavers as I call her by her complete name, she who was so use to the nickname I gave her. Still, she's smiling.

"Well, I was out for... er, a little expedition, and I saw you pacing through the door. You good ? You need unwinding ?"

I know what kind of expedition she's talking about. The matter still flusters me, but I am no prude, neither I am innocent. I know, however, that if I open my mouth she will start teasing me like I did to her, once.

"I'm... fine."

"Never believed you before, won't start today. You know I can... Distract you, if you want~"

She wiggles her eyebrows and I sigh.

"No, Domi. Not like that."

She falsely throws her arms in the air like I just turned down her wedding proposal, yet I can see her smile is now stronger on her face. Her little show of dramatisation is just, well. A show.

It pains me to admit how much those years of knowing each other don't rease themselves that easily.

"But how, then ?? How can I help a friend in a dire need of some happiness ! Tell me, Tyr, before I die of uselessness !"

"... Letting me out ?"

"If I was sure you wouldn't throw yourself from the top of the castle, yeah, I would. I know this face, you know ? I know that you want to die, but I don't want you to die, because, because you're my friend, and I thought you dead once, and I don't want to go through that again, because you're a great person, and, and-"

I lift my hand, cut through her rant. I can't listen to that again. I can't listen to those worlds and know that she believes in them, for fairies can't lie. Those are the kind of words I know would crumble if only I told her what blood tainted my sword, so which one wouldn't sully a knife.

"It's fine, Domi, I just needed to reach the shore. I promise I didn't plan to die."

Kaizarz wouldn't let me.

She squints her eyes.

"Promise ?"

I smile.

"Nice try, you little shit, No, I won't let myself caught in a little fairy pact, I know this is how you get me. But I can say again that I don't want to."

Because the day I would lock myself in a deal with you is the day I would stop running away.

I trust you. Always did. You scare me with your antics sometimes and you annoy me more times than I would admit but I know I don't have to lie to you. Except for one thing.

Shepouts, and I find that adorable, somehow.

"Darn. How did you manage to avoid me for so long."

"I studied, you know. Fairies are very secretive but books and knowledge are easy to find-"

-when you know where to look.

I know her culture is a sensitive subject, for her. Yet she drops the matter instantly and just extends a hand.

"Well if you really want to go to the beach, I'll just have to come with you."

"Really ? Isn't that just an excuse to get naked ?"

"Oh, I know you love my boobs, Tyr.~"

Little- This time my cheeks color bright red and she laughs like we weren't at risk to wake up everyone. Every fucking time she finds a way to tease me.

Yet the crimson on my skin makes me forget the other kind of burgundy.

****

I don't enjoy losing sleep because of those damn nightmares, but I have to admit for now, they're stronger than me. Even stronger than my powers. I had to rush outside the castle so the storm would follow me. Don't need to wake up everyone with the sound of thunder. The only time I hear Domhildr and Kaizarz's peaceful breath when I run past their rooms.

I can hold on for a long tome, but that doesn't mean it's not taking a toll on my body. This is probably why my steps are carrying me towards the graveyard, towards my old house. In stress the mind recognises the safe places.

Yet, when I finally reach the shore, I find myself company. I don't know what Oli is doing here, or even if that place has any significance for them, but here they are, walking in the middle of the ship debris.

I spot from the corner of my eye a pile we once did when we were still teenagers. Apparently, even seastorms can't make old memories go away.

I still remember the first time they found me here. I was alone on the shore, but I could here the muffled exclamations and feel the hidden fear. That day, no one showed up among the ships. It was only Oli and me, and my hands on her wings.

How different things would be if they showed up, if they introduced themselves ?

Today is exactly like that day. We're all alone in the graves.

She probably heard my footsteps, since she turns around and smiles at me.

"Nightmare again, isn't it."

He knows. He has always been the most perceptive, and the one getting the most to the point. His voice holds the same tone, yet it is the softest I've heard in a long time.

I can't lie to that voice.

"Yeah. Again."

"The same ?"

"Still."

Pleas and screams and the smell of the sea. Burned wood and ligthning and my hand on the ground. My lips crying supplice and his dripping with blood.

Stop that. Please. I'm begging you.

She doesn't ask any more questions. I always appreciated that. This is exactly why she knows it is always the same nightmare.

They extend a hand towards me and I take it. Both our feet lay naked in the seawater, their talons brushing against algae and my toes feeling the sand beneath me.

Their smile looks so peaceful when reflected under the light of the moon. Peace. Safety. Comfort. Everything we share, from the moment I carried them in my arms until today where their hand is softly wrapped in mine, through those dayw when they were waiting in front of my door for an answer I wouldn't ever give them.

I've missed this.

Feeling simply loved.

The storm behind me falters. Soon enough coulds are nothing but a distant memory.

"What are you doing outside at this hour, anyway ?"

"Wanted to fly a little under the moonlight, but a certain seastorm kinda threw me off. I sought refuge. Just didn't expect to see you there."

I smile, the corners of my mouth weightened with guilt.

"Sorry. I guess I needed a safe place, too."

"Is this place special to you , It's not the first time I see you there, so I was wondering."

Yeah.

"I suppose you could say that."

He shrugs.

"Well, I guess we both find what we were searching for."

I guess I did.

***

...

Nightmare.

Again.

This one is the biggest I've had in a while. Since I got up on this boat, in fact. Evrything was so

So

Vivid.

My hand hurts where it's missing. I can feel something clenching around my wrist. I can hear the cries. I can hear the screams. I can taste the blood like I've bitten in flesh instead of trying to rip of my pillows in pain.

I can still feel his cold, hating eyes on me. Blue like the ocean and yet so, so much colder as my flesh is ripping.

I can still feel the cold, cold steel in my hand, covered in warm, warm blood.

I can still remember the only warmth I felt

Was his arms

And yet his tears were so cold, too.

I get up on the deck. Maybe I can just swim for a while. Maybe I can let that ship forget me in the sea. maybe I can just

Somethin stops my walk.

Three pair of eyes full of worry. Even if one of those is artificial and an other doesn't even look in my general direction.

They're here.

"What... Guys ?"

"We heard you cry in your sleep, said Oli this time without smiling. We thought you would get out sooner rather than later."

The others don't say a word.

I just feel a pair of arms circling around my waist. Tiny, warm, soft, Domhildr's, looking at me with tear-filled eyes.

"Hey, you know we're here, right ? We'll always be here."

Oli steps forwards, join the hug. Then it's Meili's turn. Soon enough I am trapped by three pairs of arms around me and the warmth of three bodies I can't fight against.

I can't only let myself go in their embrace.

You're not lying, Domhildr. I know you really believe that.

But I know you will once look upon those words and see a lie.

Because when you learn about

What I've done

You

Won't

Be

Here

Anymore.