#'oh wow this merchant has great paper!'

[nikki-handholder]

//infinity nikki main story quest spoilers

idgi, if giovanni is the previous stonefield wish collector, then everyone in stonefield who's older than 20 years old (which seems to be like 80% of the population) would've known him, and the fact that he just straight up vanished 15 years ago. The wish collector is literally an irreplaceable part of the cultural practices that these peopel live and breathe. Did no one recognise him when he came back, and did no one ask him where he's been all these years?!??

[triptuckers]

Trapped - Jesper Fahey

Request: yes “Hey, I'm absolutely in love with your Jesper fics (but your writing in general is amazing!). Could you write something about Jesper and the reader being stuck in a closet and confessing their feelings for each other if you like the idea. Love your blog!! 💖” Pairing:  Jesper Fahey x reader Summary:  on a job, you and jesper need to make sure a merchant doesn’t see you. and the only hiding option is a closet which barely fits the two of you. Warnings: language, some suggestive themes ✨✨ but nothing actually happens Word count:  1.5K A/N: ahhh yes the Oh No We Are Locked In A Small Space trope. I love it. thanks for requesting this! also this took... a long fucking while to write sorry it’s so late, enjoy reading :) TAG LIST (grishaverse): @ayushmitadutta @mrs-brekker15 @dancingwith-sunflowers @thegirlwiththeimpala @parker-natasha @story-scribbler @romanoffstarkovs @daliareads @meiitanoia @itsnotquimey @sanktaesperanza @whymyparentscheckmyphone @aleksanderwh0r3 @ilovemarvelanne1 @marlenaisnthappy TAG LIST (Jesper Fahey): @hswemadeit @mufnasa add yourself to my tag lists here

You’d much rather spend a friday night at the club, getting drink after drink and laughing with your friends. But Kaz had gotten into some trouble with a merchant, so now you’re in said merchant’s house in the middle of the night. Accompanied by Jesper, and looking for some papers Kaz needs to blackmail the merchant.

It should have been an easy job, and it was easy. Up until you had to actually get the papers. Both you and Jesper were convinced you needed a certain set of papers, and both of you are convinced you are right.

You’re arguing in whispers about which papers to take.

‘I’m telling you Jesper, we only need these.’ you whisper-shout at him, waving the paper in your hand in front o this face.

‘Wrong, love, we need these.’ Jesper whispers back, holding up a different paper. 

‘No, Kaz said we needed the ones about his investments.’ you say. ‘No, we need the ones about his private money.’ says Jesper.

You groan in frustration. ‘You didn’t even pay attention to what Kaz was saying!’ you say. ‘We need-’

You’re cut off when Jesper places a hand over your mouth.

You mumble angrily, but Jesper is quick to shut you up with one warning look. And then you hear it too, footsteps coming your way. Your arguing had been heard by someone in the house.

‘Oh, saints.’ you mumble as soon as Jesper pulls his hand back. 

You scan the room, looking for a way out. There’s only one door, but it’s too risky to open it, as it leads to the hallway.

There’s a window, but you’re on the second floor. Technically, a jump from that height wouldn’t be lethal. But there’s no time to pick the lock.

Then you notice a tall closet in the corner of the room.

You take the paper from Jesper’s hand and shove it in his coat pocket, along with the paper you are holding. Before he can say anything, you grab his arm and pull him toward the closet.

Just as you close the door of the closet, you hear the door of the room opening and someone entering your room.

You lay one finger on your lips to signal to Jesper to stay silent. He gives a single nod.

You try to concentrate on the sounds the person in the room is making, but it’s hard when you’re this close to Jesper.

His shoulder is pressed against yours, and the back of his hand brushes against yours. You can hear his breathing next to you, and try to prevent a shiver from running down your spine.

You tell yourself to focus on whatever’s outside the closet, not what’s happening inside it. 

Jesper seems to be calm about. You sneak one look at him, and notice his are are fixed on the wooden door in front of him. He’s probably also listening to whoever is outside.

Both of you hold your breath when you hear the footsteps approaching the closet. You exchange a panicked look, but remain silent.

You see how the door knob rattles slightly, but then you hear a voice coming from another room.

‘Da? Are you there?’ says a girls’ voice.

‘Coming, darling.’ says another voice, coming from right in front of the closet. 

You hear his footsteps retreating and moments later, you hear the sound of a door opening and closing.  

You wait some more, to make sure he’s actually left the room, before you sigh.

‘That was close.’ you say. 

You turn to look at Jesper. He’s still looking at the wooden door in front of him, and it looks like he didn't hear you. He didn’t have to listen for footsteps in the room anymore, so why was he so concentrated?

‘Jes?’ you whisper. You nudge his shoulder with yours and it seems like he's coming to his senses.

‘Hm, what?’ he says.

‘He left.’ you say. 

‘Good.’ murmurs Jesper. He moves to open the door but when he pushes against it, it doesn’t open. He tries it again, and it still doesn’t move.

‘Oh no, no, no.’ he whispers, pushing against the door again.

‘Looks like it got locked when he closed it.’ you say.

‘Great.’ says Jesper. ‘My worst nightmare.’

‘I'm your worst nightmare?’ you say.

‘No.’ says Jesper. ‘Being trapped in a small space with you is my worst nightmare.’

You chuckle at his words. ‘Why?’ you say. ‘Am I such bad company?’

‘No, you’re far from bad company. But I say stupid stuff when I get nervous.’ he says. 

‘And I make you nervous?’ you say.

Jesper nods and you smirk, trying to see where this would end.

‘I didn’t think anyone could make the Jesper Fahey nervous.’ you say teasingly. 

‘Stop that.’ says Jesper, trying to open the door again. 

‘Aw, am I making you nervous?’ you say, moving closer to him.

‘I said stop.’ says Jesper, making you laugh.

You move to try and open the door, you hear how Jesper sucks in a breath behind you. You feel how he is trying to move away from you, despite the fact there’s no room for it. 

You squint your eyes as you look at the lock. ‘I can try to pick it from this side, but it’ll take a while.’ you say.

Behind you, Jesper lets out an impatient sigh. ‘Just get started. Quickly.’ he says.

‘What’s the matter?’ you say, bending down as much as you could as you start working on unlocking the doors. ‘Claustrophobia kicking in?’

‘I am not claustrophobic.’ says Jesper.

‘Hmm.’ you hum. ‘You seem very eager to get out of this closet for someone who is definitely not claustrophobic.’ 

‘It’s not the closet.’ mumbles Jesper softly behind you, but you heard him.

‘Then what is it?’ you say.

‘None of you business, just get us the fuck out of here, please.’ he says. ‘And stop moving around so much.’

‘Calm down, Jes. I can’t get a good look at the lock, so I have to move around.’ you say. 

‘Then stop moving around too much.’ he says, sounding irritated.

You don’t know why he’s freaking out so much. You’d been in situations like this on jobs before, and you couldn’t see how this was any different. 

As you continue to pick the lock, you can feel Jesper shifting uncomfortably behind you. 

‘Quit squirming around, you’re making me nervous.’ you mumble. 

‘Well you’re making me nervous.’ says Jesper irritably. 

‘Relax.’ you say. ‘Almost got it.’

And indeed, the lock gives a soft click, and it opens. You let out a relieved sigh and straighten your back. You freeze when you feel something poke in your back. 

Before you can say anything, Jesper has opened the door and rushed past you, into the room. 

You slowly step out of the closet, looking at Jesper’s back. He’s got his hands pressed against his face.

‘Oh, fuck, fuck fuck.’ he mumbles over and over again.

‘Jes?’ you say cautiously. ‘You okay there?’

‘No.’ he says, still with his back to you. ‘No, I am not okay because that was fucking embarrassing and so not okay.’

‘Jesper.’ you say. ‘It is a completely normal reaction to being trapped in a small space with someone as gorgeous as me.’ 

You can see how Jesper removes his hands from his face and places them on his hips instead. You’re surprised he doesn't flirt right back. Normally, he always does. This must really bother him.

‘Jesper.’ you say. ‘Please look at me.’ 

It takes him a while, but eventually he turns around to face you. You can’t help but to notice the blush on his cheek. 

‘It’s alright, I promise.’ you say. ‘You don’t have to be embarrassed about it.  I actually didn’t mind being trapped in a closet with you. And you kind of told me you did as well, without using your words.’

‘Oh god, that sounds so gross.’ says Jesper, chuckling lightly.

You’re pleased to see he can still laugh. 

‘Why didn’t you just tell me?’ you ask.

‘It never seemed like the right time.’ says Jesper. ‘We were either running away from someone shooting at us and you’d yell insults at them and I'd go ‘wow that’s one hell of a woman’, but we’d be running for our lives. And on the moments it seemed like the right time, like when you’re sitting on the bar laughing with Nina, I didn’t have the guts to tell you that I’m in love with you.’

You smile brightly at his words and step closer to him. Jesper didn’t back up. ‘You did just tell me.’ you say. 

‘I did.’ he says. ‘It’s not like I could, uh, hide it any longer.’

You laugh and luckily, Jesper laughs as well. 

‘How about we just get out of here? We’ll take both of the papers and have Kaz figure it out.’ you say.

‘Only if you let me buy you a drink at the crow club.’ says Jesper. 

You smile and stand on your toes to softly kiss his cheek. 

‘I take that as a yes.’ says Jesper, grabbing your hand and walking toward the door with you.

A/N: If you want to request something, make sure to read my house rules Here’s the list of characters I write for. Everything that I have written can be found on my masterlist. Please don’t repost my work, as I spend much time and effort on it!! Thank you for reading! Much love, Marit

[melzula]

The Throne

part two

pairing: Zuko x Princess!reader

summary: Sokka goes undercover and Katara and the Princess encounter an unlikely ally

~ part of the fire lilies series ~

The royal square is bustling with activity as the water tribe gets ready for the new day. Merchants prepare their stands and the guards on night watch hand over their position to the morning relief, and everyone is simply much too busy to notice the three teenagers who sneak into the palace and past the guards towards Koa’s office. You lead the way, Sokka by your side while Katara keeps watch from the back, and all three of you are dressed in the exact same shade of blue that lines the inside of the palace. Koa’s office is just around the corner, and it’s with the motion of your hand that you stop your little troop and watch him emerge from the room. His eyes are shifty as always, gauging his surroundings as he locks the door shut, and it’s only when he’s completely out of sight that you rush out from the shadows.

“Sokka, the door,” you instruct, both you and Katara with water at the ready as you keep watch over the boy who gets to work on picking the lock. The transition period between the guards means there’s no one around to catch you, but you can never be too careful with these sorts of things.

Sokka is able to break in within a matter of seconds, allowing the three of you to hurry inside before shutting the door behind you. Koa’s office is neatly organized, so you should have no problem searching through his things for evidence; you take his desk, Katara looks through his shelves, and Sokka keeps an eye on the door in case anyone decides to make a surprise visit.

“You know, this is not how I pictured my first visit to the palace,” Sokka says with a slight frown.

“I’m sorry,” you apologize sincerely, pulling your mask below your chin as you meet his eyes. “Trust me, I wish it didn’t have to be this way either, and I wish I didn’t have to bring you both into this but it’s the only way we can make things right. Koa doesn’t care about the tribe, he only cares about himself, and if my mother and I don’t get the throne back soon there’s no telling what he’ll do.”

“I think I’ve got something,” Katara says, holding up what looks to be a journal.

“What’s it say?” Sokka asks as the two of you peer over her shoulders at the page.

“He’s got everything in here. Notes, check lists, calendars with important dates.”

“You know, for a villain Koa is super organized,” Sokka notes thoughtfully only for his sister to elbow him in the side.

“It looks like there’s a few pages missing from the book,” she says with a frown. “He must have known y/n would come snooping around eventually and taken out the important stuff.”

“But look here,” you say with a small gasp, “according to this he’s hosting a meeting with his supporters tonight in... the tunnel?!”

“You mean your secret tunnel with Zuko?"

“Yes! Oh, I can’t believe him!” You exclaim with disgust. “First my throne and now my secret tunnel?!”

“Don’t worry, Princess,” Sokka vows earnestly, “I’ll go to that meeting tonight and get down to the bottom of all of this. You and Katara keep snooping.”

“We might have to take a rain check on the snooping,” Katara says, “someone’s coming.”

The three of you are quick to scatter out of the office, Sokka going down one hall and you and Katara going down the other. There’s nothing you can do now other than wait for Sokka to come back with more information, and you hope to the spirits that things will turn out okay.

“Don’t worry. This isn’t the first time Sokka’s had to play detective,” Katara consoles you, “we’re going to get that dirt on Koa.”

“For the sake of the Southern Water Tribe, I hope you’re right.”

~~~

Choruses of laughter and lively chatter drift through the tunnel as Sokka approaches the entryway with a confident though causal gait and a charming smile, but this demeanor isn’t enough to get him past the guards who immediately block his path the moment he steps towards the entrance.

“State your business,” the taller of the two says.

“This is the secret anti-Princess meeting, right?” Sokka asks. “I too would like to participate in the slandering of y/n.”

“Aren’t you a friend of the Princess?” The other guard questions, his gaze narrowing suspiciously at the obviously nervous Sokka.

“A friend? Pft! Yeah, right! If by friend you mean enemy!” He scoffs a little too dramatically. “She thinks she’s so great with her... big crown... a-and pretty face... and fancy water bending?”

The two guards exchange quiet glances, and for a moment Sokka fears he’s been caught, but to his delight the two clear the way and allow him entry to the meeting. A good amount of men stand about conversing, most of them strangers to Sokka considering they’re not from his village, and it is because of this that he is able to easily blend in and walk about eavesdropping on the different conversations without being noticed.

“Koa’s going to strengthen our tribe, you’ll see.”

“The Princess will never live up to her father. I bet she cares more about her Fire Lord boyfriend than her own tribe. Koa says it’s true.”

“Koa said it was Prince Zuko who killed Chief Tukon. How can someone be with the person responsible for their own father’s death?! She’s obviously lost her mind.”

“She doesn’t deserve the throne. She’s selfish, she’s childish, and she isn’t even a very good water bender. Did you see her hands? If that were me I wouldn’t have gotten burned.”

“Wow, you guys are seriously misinformed,” Sokka mutters under his breath, his jaw clenching as he bites back the urge to defend your name. Luckily, all conversation ceases as Koa appears at the center of the room, preventing the boy from blowing his cover with an angry outburst.

Sokka scrambles to follow the movements of the other men, most of them guards and a handful of them villagers, but all salute Koa and express their praise for the man who gives them a pleased smile before raising his hand to silence the men.

“Thank you all for coming here. I admire your perseverance and your dedication to the cause. With the rise and fall of the sun a new day approaches, and with each day that passes the Princess continues to fall short of her duties. What has she done other than take part in a mediocre party she threw for herself? What of the rest of us, the men trying to rebuild our lives in the wake of her absence?”

Oh, I don’t know, maybe saved the world, Sokka thinks bitterly to himself. Man, this guy is so lucky Zuko isn’t around.

“Under my rule we could get the Southern Water Tribe back to its rightful place in the world. We don’t need the Fire Nation or our sister tribe or anyone else. Trust in me, and you will have everything you should ever desire.”

“But our sister tribe is our ally,” one of the men says, “I have family there. Shouldn’t we remain in contact?”

“What has the North ever done for you?” Koa sneers, quieting the man and only further fueling Sokka’s hatred for Koa. What does he know?! “Once the Princess is taken care of, the North will be next.”

All the men look upon one another uneasily, but no one dares speak against Koa. Attacking their sister tribe doesn’t seem right, but surely he knows what’s best for them?

“How are we going to take care of the Princess?” Sokka calls from the crowd, deepening his voice and ducking down in the back so as to not draw attention to himself.

“I’m glad you asked,” Koa says with a sinister smirk. “She’s overstayed her welcome for much too long. It’s time we drove her out of the palace once and for all.”

“And how will we do that, sir?”

“A mutiny.”

~~~

“Princess?” Kai splutters in surprise at the sight of you and Katara standing in his front doorway.

“Kai, I know this is a lot to ask of you but I need you to let me go through your father’s things,” you say.

“Okay,” Kai shrugs simply, prompting you and Katara to exchange surprised glances.

“Wait, really? You’re not going to even ask why?”

“I know my dad’s a jerk, and I know you’re doing your best to put the tribe back together,” he explains simply as he leads the two of you to his father’s bedroom. “He’s honestly been kind of a pain lately, and I feel like he’s going to do more harm than good. Why shouldn’t we try to stop him?”

“Wow, that’s really noble of you,” Katara murmurs slowly.

“Maybe if he’d been a little nicer to me I might have reconsidered helping you, but it is what it is. You have plenty of time to explore, but I’ll keep watch just in case he comes back early.”

“Thank you, Kai. Honestly, you have no idea how much this means to me,” you profess earnestly. The boy smiles shyly in return.

“Anything for you, y/n,” he replies, and with that you and Katara are off in search of more evidence.

“I hope Sokka’s doing okay,” you murmur softly as you shuffle through Koa’s things.

“He knows what he’s doing,” Katara consoles you. “You know he’d do anything for you.”

“Yeah, I know...”

“Hey, I found the missing pages!” Katara says, her brows furrowing as she reads over the notes.

“What is it?”

“These notes... They’re plans to invade the North.”

“What?!” You exclaim in surprise as you join her side and peer over the handwriting. “That’s impossible! There’s no way anyone will go along with that.”

“Not according to these papers. ‘Every man is expendable. Do whatever it takes and get rid of anyone who tries to get in the way,’” she reads carefully. “Koa isn’t just trying to take your throne away, but the Northern throne too.”

“He always used to make subtle suggestions about the North to my father when he was advisor, but I never knew they were this serious...” you utter solemnly. “We have to stop him before it’s too late.”

“Y/N! Katara!” Sokka shouts, startling the two of you.

“Sokka, quiet down! You’re going to get us caught!” His sister scolds. “What is it?”

“Koa wants to invade the North!”

“We know that already!”

“Yeah, well do you also know that he and the guards are staging a mutiny three days from now against y/n?!” He reiterates. Your face pales with worry and your stomach begins to sink as you process the news Sokka has just delivered.

“A mutiny?” You squeak, the two siblings immediately ceasing their bickering to rush to your side and comfort you. You try to hold back the tears, but you can’t help the way your shoulders begin to shake and your bottom lip begins to quiver. “I really am a failure...”

“No, don’t say that!” Katara protests, pulling you into her arms for possibly the tightest hug you’ve ever received in your entire life. “None of this is your fault.”

“But it is! You and my mother say it’s not my fault but none of this would have happened if I hadn’t left home!”

“Y/n—”

“And I know what you’re going to say, and no, I don’t regret leaving. I don’t regret any of it because then I wouldn’t have Zuko or Iroh or Suki or you guys. But that doesn’t change the fact that my selfishness has now put both tribes in danger. I’ll never be the leader my father was.”

“No, you won’t,” Sokka says much to your surprise, carefully wiping away the tears that fall down your cheeks. “You’ll never be your father, because you’re not supposed to be like him. You’re you, Princess y/n of the Southern Water Tribe, master water bender and rightful heir to the throne. You can do this.”

“We believe in you, y/n,” Katara reinforces firmly. “And we’re going to help you get through this. No matter what.”

“Thank you,” you sniffle, wiping away your tears before holding your chin high. “You’re right. I can’t get anything done if I just sit here and cry. If Koa wants a fight then I’ll be ready for a fight. Sokka, Katara, I hate to ask this of you but is there any chance your father and his men will be willing to help?”

“Dad already said he’d be here to help if you needed it. Our village is just as eager for the end of Koa’s reign as we are,” Katara says. “They’re falling apart without the resources Koa promised them.”

“We know what’s coming and we know what to do,” Sokka reiterates. “We’ll be ready for Koa.”

“And that’s a promise.”

~~~

The flames of the fire that surround the throne glow brilliantly along the palace walls and bathe the room in a peaceful light. On the throne sits Fire Lord Zuko, his knee bouncing anxiously as he awaits the arrival of his servant. He hopes the delay means there’s news waiting for him, but when she arrives empty handed Zuko deflates.

“There was nothing?”

“We received no new letters from the Southern Water Tribe,” she replies solemnly, bowing her head in respect. Zuko is silent for a moment as he does his best to quell his panic.

“I see,” he murmurs thoughtfully before reaching into his robe for the scroll safely tucked away inside and unraveling it to look over his own letter.

To my beloved Princess,

I haven’t heard from you since I last saw you, I hope you’re alright. I’m sure you’re doing amazing things for your tribe, and I couldn’t be more honored to call you my girlfriend. I wish you only the best and hope this letter finds you well. Please write me back when you can just so I can sleep soundly knowing you’re okay and safe. I love you.

- Zuko

“Make sure this gets to Princess y/n,” he orders as he hands the scroll to the servant.

“Yes, my lord,” she replies earnestly before scurrying off to deliver the message and leaving Zuko to stew in his own thoughts.

“Spirits, help me,” he sighs with a tired rub of his eyes. It’s been a long week and each day that passes without word from you is another day of agonizing torture. “Please be okay...”

You really should have told Zuko about Koa from the beginning.

| tags: @rainteslerrrr @oddment-niwit-blubber-tweak @thebluelcdy @royahllty @the-firebender-girl @coldlilheart @ilovespideyyy @yiyibetch @eridanuswave @lammello @a-monsters-love @knaite-solo @zukh03s @taeeemin @user12345321 @just--artemis--with--ghost @titaniafire @dekahg @emberislandplayers @kikaninchen-2 @lozzybowe @izzieserra @melacholy @music-geek19 @thia-aep @thyunnamed @haylaansmi @nataliahaslosthershit @idkdude776 @aangsupremacy @thirstyforsometea @ihaveaproblem98 @brown-eyed-thang @djskfkdkkf @xapham @yeetletzgetitjae @misnmatchedsox @chewymoustachio @that-bucket-hat-gal @chilifrylizard2 @kyomihann @kaylove12 @kiwihoee @freggietale @neighborhoodpansexualdisaster |

[deafeninggardenerpanda]

Waddle Dee went to Kirby's house every day after finishing work at Factory Dedede to help aid the search.

"It seems that our president has also started searching for the gears. He’s been walking around town with a map and a magnifying glass."

Kirby nodded. "Not only President Dedede, but everyone in town is searching for them. It's difficult, though. No one knows the shape or color of the gears." 

"Hmm ... Do we have any leads?" Kirby and Waddle Dee pondered face-to-face. At that moment, the doorbell, which rarely rings, made a noise.

"Who is it?" Waddle Dee said to Kirby. "You don’t get many guests."

Kirby jumped up. "Oh! Is it the pizza delivery person!?" he shouted.

"Pizza delivery person? Kirby, did you order pizza?"

"No! But ... maybe the pizza place made a special pizza to celebrate my 100th consecutive victory of the airplane races!" Kirby opened the door in a hurry. There stood someone wearing a large hood.

"That? That’s not the delivery person, is it ...? " 

"Good evening, Kirby! It's been a long time. It’s Magolor, yo~! " Magolor, the traveling merchant. He traveled often from town to town selling medicine. Kirby, himself, had also once taken Magolor's medicine after he had previously rolled around in the snow and caught a cold.

"Did you come to sell medicine again? But I'm not sick ... "

"No, no! It's different this time. There’s a big story."

"A big story?"

"It's about the search for some gears." Magolor came into the room, put the large trunk he had with him on the floor, and sat down on it.

Kirby was taken aback. "Are you also looking for the gears, Magolor?" he asked.

"Yep, it's my dream to get the prize, build a laboratory, and develop medicine." Magolor spread his hands. "Kirby, we both have our strengths. If we put those strengths together, I’m sure we could find the gears! What do you think about some cooperation?"

"Yeah, sure!" Kirby nodded. Waddle Dee, however, was a little worried. 

"Kirby, is it okay to trust this guy?"

"Eh? Why not? It's easier to find something with three people instead of two." 

"Hmm ... but ... " Waddle Dee didn't trust Magolor. He came out of nowhere—maybe he was trying to use Kirby by taking advantage of his kindness.

Looking at Kirby, Magolor said, "I know a secret method for finding the gears. If you have me, we’ll easily be able to find them."

"Really!? Great, then let’s do it!" Kirby was overjoyed, but again, Waddle Dee was more skeptical. He became more and more suspicious.

"If you know a method, why are you telling us? Why don't you search for them by yourself?"

"I would, but ... there’s a big issue." Magolor took a deep breath and spoke with all his might. "I can’t do it alone. Kirby has a certain something we need." Kirby and Waddle Dee looked at each other.

"Kirby has ... what? Huh?"

"Here’s the thing, listen carefully!" 

"Okay." Kirby and Waddle Dee sat down in front of Magolor.

"I'm nuts about ancient magic, so I’m the only person who understands ... the gears of the ancient machine cannot be found because they’ve been sealed."

"Sealed?"

"Uh-huh. Once upon a time, the gears were stolen by an evil wizard. It seems the gears had a magic seal put on them during that. The sealed object cannot be seen with the naked eye, however, a special tool can be used to find it. I know the location of that special tool."

"Special tool?" Waddle Dee said. "A special tool that reacts to magic ... Where is it?" 

"I told you, Kirby has it."

"Eh? I do?" Kirby’s eyes widened. "I don't have anything like that! I can't use magic!" 

"You ... you have the Star Compass, right?"

Kirby was surprised. "The Star Compass ...? Yeah, I have it, but, hold on." Kirby rummaged through some junk piled up in the corner of the room and pulled out a small, star-shaped compass.

"That’s a cute compass. What’s so special about it?" Waddle Dee asked.

"The old man of the Magic Guild gave me this as a present a long time ago, after I defeated a monster in the City of Magic."

"Not the ‘old man,’ the Elder of the Magic Guild. The great wizard Tottemo." Magolor looked enviously at Kirby. "Tottemo … Totteeemooo ... The Star Compass, such a precious artifact. If you study magic, you'd want it even if it were in bits and pieces. When I heard an airplane pilot from Diamond Town got it, I was so jealous!"

"Huh ... I didn’t realize it was so important." Kirby recalled when he received the gift.

("Really? You want me to take it?"  When Kirby asked, the old man of the Magic Guild—no, the Elder, smiled gently.

"It’s a thank-you item. Please, don't hesitate. The Star Compass—if it falls into the hands of someone with a bad heart, it will bring terrifying results. But if it's with you, Kirby, it will be safe."

"Huh?"

"Besides, this compass, don't you like it? Ho ho ho!" He waved goodbye as Kirby left.)

That guy that Kirby visited ... Even when he asked what he meant, Kirby didn't understand at all. 

"This compass, it doesn't move. I can’t tell what direction it points because of it. I'm sure it's broken ... "

"That’s just because you’re using it incorrectly." Magolor reached out and received it from him. "The Star Compass is a tool used to search for the power of magic. If it’s not used correctly, it won't move. Watch." Magolor opened his trunk and took out a small paper packet. Glittering, sand-like grains spilled out when he opened it. Using them, he began to draw a mysterious pattern on the floor.

"Like this, if you draw it with magical sand and put the Star Compass in the center ... "  The needle of the compass, which had not been moving until now, began to sway. It emitted a pale light like the glimmer of the stars.

"Ah, the compass ...! " Kirby shouted. 

"Get a map of the town!" Magolor said. Waddle Dee hurriedly brought a map of Diamond Town, which Magolor put the compass on. He chanted a spell. The compass needle spun around wildly, increasing in speed, until it stopped at a particular angle. After a moment, it began spinning again and stopped at another angle, and then another. Magolor nodded.

"Okay, there are three gears in all. Here, here, and ... here." Magolor put three marks on the map.

"Do we know the position of the gears, now?" Waddle Dee said with big eyes.

"Yep! The movement of the Star Compass can tell you exactly where our magical objects are."

Kirby looked at the map. "The first one is ... the field! That field is where the goal of our airplane races is," said Kirby.

"Second is ... around the clock tower in the west," said Waddle Dee.

"Third," said Magolor, "‘The Town of Light.’"

"You can't go into The Town of Light," said Waddle Dee. "’The residents of the Town of Wind must not go into the Town of Light without permission.’ That's the rule."  

"Aw man … The third gear is postponed, then. We’ll have to figure out some other way. Let’s find the other two, first."

Waddle Dee nodded. "There’s a guard at the clock tower that won’t let us in, so we should start with the gear in the field."

"Okay! Come on, let's go!" Magolor stopped Kirby from running out the door. 

"Now, it's too late. You should wait until tomorrow." 

"But ... "

"The night is dangerous. We’re the only ones that know the locations, so don't worry so much."

"That's right. Let's start tomorrow," Waddle Dee said. "The factory will be closed, too, so we can find it together. We’ll all meet in the field, first thing in the morning."

"Oh, actually, I’m sorry. I have something to do tomorrow. I can’t go with you ... Instead, let me give you a thing." Magolor took out a small bottle from the trunk and gave it to Kirby. "These are magical eye drops I made."

"Eye ... Drops ...? " 

"As I said, things with a magical seal on them cannot be seen with the naked eye, however, you’ll be able to see them if you use these special eye drops."

"Wow, that's convenient!" Magolor, again, stopped Kirby from immediately trying to use the eye drops.

"No no no, it doesn't last for long! Only about an hour. It'd be better to use them tomorrow!"

"Okay, I understand. Thank you, Magolor."  

"You’re very welcome! Oh, and one more thing: once touched, the magical seal will melt. It will be so that the gears can be seen even without the eye drops."

"We just have to touch it," Waddle Dee said. "If we find the gears, let's deliver them to Mr. Fugo, together, and get the prize. We’ll divide it evenly!"

"Wow, sounds fun! Good luck Kirby, Waddle Dee."

"Yeah, we’ll do our best. Thank you, Magolor!"

Magolor headed home, dragging his heavy trunk behind him.

"Magolor is really knowledgeable and smart," Kirby said. "I’m surprised!" 

"I'm glad he’s on our side," Waddle Dee nodded. "Thanks to Magolor, we can get the gears. Let's do our best, tomorrow."

"Yeah! Good night, Waddle Dee." 

"Good night, Kirby." Waddle Dee waved and left the room. 

Meta Knight was sitting on the couch and thinking, of course, about the gears and the ancient machine that was discovered.

(Evil using an ancient machine ... What kind of machine could it be?)

A knocking sound was heard, and Butler Vul's voice soon after. 

"Excuse me, my lord."

"What is it?"  

"It seems ... a strange guest has come."

"A guest? At this time?"

"Well ... I told him to come back tomorrow, but he said that he wanted to speak to you as soon as possible. He spoke of gears—I didn't understand much of it ... What do you want me to do?"

" ... Gears." Meta Knight had also begun looking for the gears, but no one should know except Daroach. Not even Butler Vul should know. Meta Knight stood up.

"Okay, let me through the living room."

"Are you sure?  Somehow, he has a strange atmosphere about him ... "

"It doesn't matter."

"Understood ... " Butler Vul moved to return to the front door, however, he nearly bumped into someone on the way there. "Wahhh!?"

"Nice to meet you, Lord Meta Knight!" Standing behind Butler Vul was a person wearing a large hood. Butler Vul yelled at the intruder.

"Why—! Hey, you! You selfish—! How dare you just, come in on your own! I told you to wait at the door until my lord gave me permission!" But the guest just pushed Butler Vul aside and spoke to Meta Knight.

"I'm a medicine peddler named Magolor—"

"We don’t need medicine. Get out."

"—I want to talk to you, Lord Meta Knight. I have a story I want to tell you—"

"It's time for my lord to get his rest. Get out!"

"—A story about ... the gears of death!"

"Hey, why don’t you listen to a story about my wrinkles instead!" Butler Vul was furious, but Meta Knight just stared at the strange merchant.

"Okay, let's hear the story. Vul, you’re dismissed." 

"Eh!? But my lord ...! "

"I’ll call if anything happens. Don't worry." Butler Vul was so upset he left the living room with shaking fists. Meta Knight led Magolor to the sofa and sat down. Magolor spoke with a smile.

"Thank you so much, Lord Meta Knight. I’m sorry I’m here so late at night, forgive me ... " 

"Let's not waste time. About the matter at hand—what do you know about the gears?" 

" …………… " 

Magolor’s hood shifted and showed his expression. "Right to the point. As I expected from you, Lord Meta Knight!" Suddenly changing his tone, Magolor leaned back on the couch. 

"I know a tip for finding the gears. I want to tell you about it."

"What do you mean?" 

"What I mean is, Lord Meta Knight, I want you to find the gears ... " Magolor rephrased, seeing sharp eyes staring at him from behind the mask. "I’m telling the truth. I'll give you a tip because I want you to find the gears and win us the prize. I want to build a laboratory and develop new medicine."

"Why me? If you know a clue to finding the gears, you should look for it alone." 

"I can’t, it has to be you. You see, one of the gears is in the Town of Light."

" ... What was that?"

"As an aristocrat, you have the freedom to act in the Town of Light. If they see a merchant like me sneaking about, they’ll kick me out. To find all the gears, our cooperation is a must! Your help is needed at any cost!"

Meta Knight stopped to think. This medicine peddler, who called himself Magolor, was more than he seemed. He seemed to know important information about the gears, but Meta Knight was not yet convinced.

"If you need an aristocrat, I'm sure there are others. Why did you choose me?" 

"The aristocrats are a burden. Everyone, they’re sloths, annoying things. Out of all of them, the only one I can rely on is you, Lord Meta Knight."

Meta Knight didn’t believe it was that simple, but Magolor had a point. The aristocrats who lived in luxury had no adventurous spirit or curiosity. Meta Knight was the only one who was interested in finding the gears.

"Let me hear from you. What kind of hints do you know?" 

"Look at this." Magolor opened his trunk and took out a map. "The gear is here." A certain place was marked in the Town of Light.

" ... This is ...! " Meta Knight was shocked.

"Do you know where this is?" Magolor asked.

" ... Ah, yeah."

"Great! Then, do your best to find the gear. I'm going home ... Oh, one last thing." Magolor pulled out a small bottle. "These are magical eye drops I made." Magolor explained the eye drops and handed a vial to Meta Knight. "Good luck, Lord Meta Knight. Have a good night." He dragged the trunk out of the living room. After Magolor left, Meta Knight was still. He was staring at the map of the Town of Light. The gear—it was in Mr. Fugo's mansion.

"What does this mean?" Meta Knight murmured. "Regardless, I have to let Daroach know ... "

< Previous | Table of Contents | Next >

[dragonninjafanfictions]

Yuri Leclerc x Reader

So I had posted this on Wattpad but not here. I didn’t like how it turned out and it seemed kinda rushed to me. But enough of that lets get this story started.

~DragonNinja~

“(Y/N) wake up!" I could hear someone yell, but I tired to ignore them. Well until they threw (Yeeet! LOL alright I will stop) a book at me.

"Hey! That hurt you know" I growl at them while rubbing the spot the book hit me, I was never a morning person and having a book thrown at me doesn't help that factor. I grab the book and put it on my stand, and then turn to see that it was Hilda who threw the book, I glare at her and walk up to where she is standing.

She was about to say something until I closed the door in her face, "Hey! The Professor told me to get you, you didn't have to do that you know" Hilda complains to me, I just roll my eyes as I put on my uniform. I then head to my vanity and grab my brush and start brushing my (H/L) (H/C) hair and put it in a pony tail.

After that I opened my door and walked to where Hilda was waiting for me, "So what did the Professor want?" I asked her.

"All he said was to go to the classroom" Hilda says with a shrug.

~Time skip brought to you by Hilda throwing a book at the reader~

"So why did you want to meet with me again?" I ask the Professor.

He looks up from his desk and what I assume are papers that are to be graded. "Mrs. (Y/L/N) I am glad you got my message, you remember how I told you about there being a fourth house right?" he asks me.

"The Ashen Wolves, yes I remember. Why do you ask?" But instead of explaining to me he just hands me a paper and tells me that I am free to go.

~Time skip to reader being her room~

I sit on my bed and eye the note on my desk that Professor Byleth gave me, after some time I give up and just decide to read it.

Dear (Y/N), You may be wondering why your Professor asked you about the Ashen Wolves, well its simple. We want you to join the Ashen Wolves, just remember this opportunity doesn't happen often. So if you accept, talk to the merchant that hangs around the sauna, make sure you show him the note.

Sincerely, Y

After reading the note I am hit with different emotions. But I do know that I want to know more about this mysterious person named "Y".

I then blow out my candle and go to sleep, making a promise to myself to go see the merchant.

~Time skip to meeting the shady merchant~

I see the merchant the note described and show him the note, he nods and shows me the way to this underground passageway.

When I reach the end of the hall I am met with an underground village. "Wow" was all I could manage to say.

"Don't think that I have seen you are here before" a voice shakes me out of my trance, I turn around and see a man that looked liked he did a lot of brawling.

"No I am not from here, I got a note saying that I should talk to a merchant and show him the note" after I finish explaining he then looks me up and down.

"Oh, your the person that Yuri was talking about, I didn't expect you to be a girl" he laughed awkwardly.

"So where exactly am I supposed to be at?" I ask him

~Time skip to meeting the Ashen Wolves because I am lazy~

"Umm, care to explain what is going on here B?" A girl with pinkish red hair asked.

"This is the person that Yuri was going on about" the person who I assume is know as B stated.

"Have you come to see the Constance von Nuvelle restore her house to its greatest of glories?" A girl with blond and purple hair laughs as she introduces herself.

"Well I see you got my note" a voice says, I turn around and see a man with purple hair and eyes. I then see that he also has eyeshadow to match, he also has a purple and white version of the house leaders uniforms.

"Yeah, umm..." I am not sure what I should say, he feels so familiar like I have met him before.

"Yuri-bird who exactly is she?" The pinkish red haired girl asked the man who I am assuming is Yuri.

"Right...it seems that I forgot a small detail, this is (Y/N) (Y/L/N) she will be our professor." Yuri explained, to the girl.

"Oh, great...she better not be with the church, you know how much I hate them" she says in a bitter tone. I realized something about the room we were in, it looked a lot like a library but also a classroom at the same time.

"So why do you want me to be your professor if it is alright for me to ask." I say being curious yet still giving them room to choose not to answer. "Are you with church?" The pinkish red haired girl asked.

"No, I have never been that interested in churches" I answer her question honestly.  "Well that's fine by me, my name is Hapi by the way." She says a little bit more cheerful.

"Why did you want her to be our new professor?" B asks.

"Well remember the time I told you about these kids being in danger?" Yuri asks them.

"Well, yeah. You said that there was this girl who took down three monsters and was seriously injured, but still decided to fight to protect those kids." Balthus explains.

That is when I realized why Yuri seemed so familiar, it was because I was the girl that they were talking about. I had told Yuri to take the orphans to safety so I could focus on then monsters.

Yuri looked like he was trying to hold back a laugh as he tries to explain it again to Balthus. I finally decide to help Yuri out "Balthus how do you still not realize it, the girl he was talking about who do you think she is"

His eyes go wide, "so you mean to tell me that the girl is you, remind me not to get on your bad side"  We all laugh, and start to get to know each other. But one things for sure, I feel like I don't need to act like someone I am not.

[misterewrites]

The Heart of Civilization (Welcome to the Underground!)

Summary: Abigail's first experience of the Underground's capital is nothing like anything she's dealt with before but luckily she's got two guides. While the group decides how to handle their current arrangement, Oliver comes up with a surprising solution.

Hello everyone! It's done! I'm no longer behind schedule! E HERE WITH THE NEXT CHAPTER OF THE UNDERGROUND! WOO! Sorry it's been a chaotic, long few weeks. But I hope you are all doing good. So here we go the first major arc of the underground. Enjoy! I hope you are all safe, washing your hands, wearing your masks, get the vaccine if you can and keep each other safe! Comment, reblog, tell your friends. All that is super helpful for me and I love feedback. That's it for me, have a great week! E is out! Gonna nap!

Read this chapter or the whole thing if you’re curious with the link found below

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27814297/chapters/77710460

Cities were never silent. It was impossible to be given how much life was concentrated in a single location. Even smaller towns and villages in the middle of nowhere were always bursting with the sounds of the living: Cheery drunks, clanking armor of the city guard patrolling, the odd night owls who could never find rest under a starry sky. The life and soul of any place were the people.

So naturally Abigail was taken aback by the immense silence.

She knew there was sound given how sudden she was buffeted backwards by a wave of unseen force. Archie and Oliver felt it too given how their bodies jerked but unlike her, they had been expecting it.

There was a strange disconnect between Abigail’s senses and her brain as it tried to piece together what exactly was going on. She was actually starting to get a headache as her mind tried to make sense of conflicting information.

Her eyes watered and burned at the soft light that emitted throughout. It wasn’t as warm or bright as sunlight but it was close enough to make Abigail feel stuffy in her thick riding cloak. Oliver took off his cloak and began helping Archie out of his so Abigail followed suit, putting it away carefully in her backpack.

She asked how was there light down here but her words were muted and felt strange leaving her mouth like she was simply mouthing her question to herself.

It should’ve been noisy given that there were dozens of people on the stony street: children of various races running about playing different games among themselves, adults huddled together their faces serious with concern or relaxed at ease yet all were muted with a quiet that was inescapable.

Abigail knew this must’ve been the outskirts of the city given the conditions of the clothing and houses here. The only thing the homes shared was a ramshackle look to their construction and a strange mark written in their surface: Some were made of stone, others wood with a rare building made of metal. Short squat homes built deeper into the ground that were clearly dwarf design clashed horribly with the tall, gravity defying stacked one room story floors that were elvish hobbles.

Abigail pursed her lips, unsure what to make of this whole situation when Oliver’s voice appeared from nowhere, distant and echoing like he was speaking from the other end of a tunnel.

“You okay?”

Abigail jumped, flailing about wildly at the noise that cut through the quiet.

“Don’t do that!” Abigail shouted, annoyed, but nothing came out.

Oliver chuckled to himself soundlessly as he gestured to her with two pointed fingers.

“Haven’s Nest is the biggest city in all the Underground.” His voice crackled “You noticed it in the tunnels, no? How far sounds can travel in a confined space? Imagine trying to live in an entire city like that. You’d lose your hearing within a day. Well less given how much you like talking to people.”

Realization dawned on Abigail as she pointed to the strange items nestled in her ears.

Oliver nodded, his fingers still outstretched “Magical filters. They protect your ears from being overwhelmed by the noise or annoying conversations.”

Abigail thought for a moment before pointing two fingers towards Oliver.

“Is that why…?” she flinched at sudden reemergence of her voice “Wow that’s really off putting. Is that why they just hand them out at the entrance?”

“Mhm. Bad for tourism if you went deaf visiting the capital. Haven’s Nest: come to lose your money, leaving with 50% less hearing.”

Abigail stifled a laugh “So if I point like this?” she gestured with the two fingers “I can talk to people one on one. What if I want to talk to a bunch of people?”

“Make a fist. It’ll let you talk to and hear everything in the immediate area.”

Abigail looked at her hand before closing it into a fist. She winced as the city life popped back into existence without warning: The children shouting and cheering at their losses and victories, small talk about work and how members of the community were doing, unhappy grumbles about the price of food these days and the lack of respect the youth held for their elders.

The city was alive once more.

“Do we have to wear these the whole time?” Abigail asked, opting to keep her fist closed for simplicity's sake.

Archibald shook his head tiredly as he pointed to the strange symbol that were scrawled on every building’s surface.

“Sound bubbles.” Oliver explained “The magical symbols create a little pocket barrier around each building so you can only hear what’s happening inside. It be pretty infuriating if you need to sleep with the filters on. They don’t exactly stick in your ears perfectly.”

Archibald agreed.

“Oh okay. And the…”

“Lights?” Oliver cut in with a knowing smirk “Dwarfish design. A lot of important business happens in Haven’s Nest so a day night cycle is helpful. Harsher light for the day and softer glows for your shady night business.”

“Your shady night business” Abigail glared at Oliver before glancing upwards. Now that the bard pointed it out, she could see what he meant: Hundreds of smooth glass panels were packed tightly together on the ceiling of the cavern. Many of them gleamed with the warm light that bothered her when she first came in but she also noticed some were blackened, either powered down or broken from constant use.

“I take it this is the only place in the underground that has this level of dwarfish engineering.”

“Only non-dwarf city. Dwarves are a little hoardy with their tech.”

Abigail nodded “So this is the boonies, right?”

Oliver gave a mocking look of pride “Look at you knowing your terms. Yeah, this is the less fortune part of town. Still pretty nice all things considered. Up ahead is the Merchant Ward. Well ward is a misnomer but it’s the closest word I can come up with.”

“Looks like someone needs to up their vocab.” Abigail teased.

Archibald chuckled softly.

“And you.” Oliver gestured to the archer “What’s the plan now?”

Archibald eyes shone with understanding. He motioned for Abigail to help and handed her his pack as he began to search for something within. It took a minute but soon Archibald produced a crumpled up envelope. He handed it to Oliver while gratefully smiling at Abigail.

Abigail smiled back as Oliver tore the envelope and read the letter.

“Dear Greenfield and Bard, tis I! Borrick Copperstone. As you now no doubt have discovered, my boy Archie isn’t the most talkative person.”

Oliver spared Archibald a playful look “No kidding.”

Archibald waved Oliver’s comment off.

Oliver cleared his throat, his voice becoming booming and cheery as if mimicking the old dwarf “So I have written this letter with the following instructions. Archibald will be taking the 5 gold payment and I expect you to buy him a fine meal! As promised. In addition, Archibald has been given instructions to wait at the Right Hook inn in the Merchant Ward. Feel free to drop him off or you may part ways once in the city proper. Thank for your business and I wish you safe travels!”

Archibald reached to take the letter back but Oliver slapped his hand away with the paper.

“No.”

Archibald tilted his head quizzically.

Oliver narrowed his eyes “I don’t want you crying to your boss that you got injured on the job and we just dropped you first chance we got. We’re taking you to the Right Hook and we’re gonna keep an eye on you until we are sure you’re better. Right Abigail?”

Abigail was caught off guard by the sudden shift to her but she noticed the knowing glint in Oliver’s eyes “Right. Right! It’s only fair given you risked your life for us. I mean I still need to figure out what I’m going to do next and Oliver’s competition is in a few days so we don’t really have a reason to split up just yet.”

Archibald flushed a lovely bright pink.

“So it’s settled!” Oliver beamed “We’re taking to you Right Hook, get you rested, Abigail will buy you that meal she promised Borrick.”

“Hey!”

“You were negotiating” Oliver pointed out “You made the deal now you have to honor it.”

“I hate you.”

“And” Oliver went on without acknowledging Abigail further “We’ll get you to a cleric tomorrow, maybe do Abigail’s side quest and I still need to sign up for the competition.”

“My side quest?” Abigail’s face scrunched up thoughtfully “Oh! Cecilia’s wizard mentor person. That guy. Wait, how did you…?”

“So we take it easy today then we’ll go out tomorrow. Sorry solider boy you’re stuck with us a little longer.”

Archibald’s face was one of sheepish embarrassment but he smiled appreciatively all the same.

Abigail pursed her lips “Why don’t we do it today? It’s only afternoon if I’m reading the dwarfish sunshine right.”

“We almost died.” Oliver spoke plainly, shooting at glare at some people’s gaze who began to wander their way “I don’t know about you but I don’t wanna deal with anything else except a good meal and being alive.”

Abigail thought about for a moment. She could feel the tension in her body, her arms and legs were stiff. She was okay for now but the idea of doing more things today left her feeling drained.

“Yeah good point. We should take it easy for now. I’m not used to life or death situations.”

“I noticed.” Oliver turned to lead the group “Though it’s not like they get any easier.”

“What?”

“To The Right Hook!”

-----

At first traveling was relatively easy: The outskirts of town held only one path and it was simple to get her bearings situated. However the trouble started when they reached the Merchant Ward of the city.

Without warning the mismatched, battered homes became sleek, colorful uniformed buildings. Traditional human designs of varying heights and hues littered as far as the eye could see, each with the same symbol Oliver had pointed out. While the ceiling was narrow above the outskirts, here the cavern opened impossibly wide. Countless dwarfish panels of light were held high above in differentiating states of decay, blazing nearly as bright as the sun. The road became less stony and move cobbled as the paths branched out in every direction. People of various lifestyles hustled back and forth as the sounds of the city washed over her. Even the little Abigail could hear reminded her of the capitol on the surface, the sheer chaos that existed in larger, more populated places.

Oliver seemed to know where he was going. He would look at these towering signs with names written upon them. Street signs he called them. Abigail never heard of such a thing before but she was grateful for their existence.

As the trio traveled deeper into the Merchant Ward, Oliver began pointing out the various sections of the city.

“Over there.” Oliver pointed to a far off road that curved upwards through a tunnel “is the Clifftop Distract. Rich people turf. Anyone of value or wealth are squirreled away up there.”

“Of course.” Abigail murmured softly to herself. Somethings never changed.

“To the east past the Merchant Ward is East Haven. More homes less business but there are few inns, pubs, stores out there for all your shopping convenience.”

“Like a little village?” Abigail questioned, trying to see if she could equate it to something she knew.

Oliver paused for a moment “Actually yeah. Like a little village next door. Better off than the boonies but not as fancy as Clifftop. Middle of the road as it were. As you can tell, Merch Ward is a little chaotic. Not many people like the idea of living here.”

Abigail raised an eyebrow at a fist fight between a gnome and a dwarf “Couldn’t guess why. And past East Haven?”

“The east gate out of town. Haven’s Nest only has three gates: West in the outskirts, south for the Merchant Ward and East. The west and east are for public use but the south gate is only used for deliveries, soldiers, supplies, patrols etc etc etc.”

“How much further to the Right Hook?”

“Should be round here somewhere, right Archie?”

Archibald nodded in confirmation before pointing a nearby building.

The Right Hook was a wooden building painted a dark red and five stories tall. While the wood outside seemed aged and faded, the doors and window were new as if they had just been replaced. The sign that hung over the doorway was in a fancy font and showed an outstretched hand in the middle of a punch. The hand, ironically, was the left.

“I like it!” Abigail beamed cheerfully “It’s got character.”

“I believe that’s what we call a mistake.”

“It’s charming.”

“It’s wrong.”

“You’re wrong!”

Archibald softly laughed to himself as he followed the arguing pair inside.

The trio took off their filters, carefully placing them away in their pockets for later use. Abigail could feel her ears pop: Every laugh, word, noise was crisp. She could hear the sounds of all within the building but the chaotic symphony of the city remained outside.

“Now what?” she asked, rubbing her aching ears.

“Order some food. I’ll check us in.” Oliver offered “No doubt Borrick probably paid a room for Archie.”

Before Abigail could fathom what Oliver had just said, the bard disappeared deeper within the building.

“Always fun with Ollie huh?”

Archibald snickered then winced as he held his stomach.

“Sorry” Abigail smiled softly “Must be sore. Let’s find a table.”

Archibald and Abigail scanned the room and quickly spotted one nearby. The pair made their way over when Archibald pulled out the chair and gestured for Abigail to take a seat.

Abigail giggled while she sat down “Thank you good sir! I’m glad someone is a gentleman here.”

Archibald flushed as he pushed her chair in and took his own across from her.

-----

Food and drinks were ordered and brought out by the time Oliver returned, a quiet thankful look in his eyes as he noticed the third plate of meat and vegetables steaming in front of an empty seat.

“Thanks” He muttered quietly, sitting at the table.

“You okay?” Abigail watched him carefully “You look like you’re experiencing emotions.”

“I know I hate it.” Oliver gave a cocky smirk and returned to his usual self “Borrick paid for a full week for our good friend Archie so he’s cover.”

“But…” Abigail chimed in “I’m hearing a but.”

“You’re going to have to room with him.”

It wasn’t obvious who was more surprised by this information: Abigail or Archibald. Abigail’s eyes went wide and she could feel a blush spread across her cheeks while Archie simply choked on his drink and began coughing his lungs out.

“WHAT?!” Abigail and Archibald caught each other’s eyes “I...I-I don’t….I mean I don’t mind but…”

Archibald kept choking.

“Relax, it’s not as bad as you think.” Oliver began with a lazy wave of his hand “It’s...well big. On the 5th floor. It’s like a mini home I guess. It’s one room with two separate bedrooms inside. I think. It was a little confusing but I’m betting it’s for whoever is coming to pick him up. You know, to get a day’s of rest before they have to travel back.”

Abigail opened her mouth to protest but Oliver kept going “They only had one other room: A little broom closet on the second floor so be grateful I didn’t shove you in there and decide to bunk with my best friend Archie.”

Archie shot a glare as he finally cleared his throat.

Oliver grinned playfully “It’s only for a day or two until other rooms open up and we can all get our own separate, real rooms.”

“Well.” Abigail twiddled her thumbs “If it’s only for a few days…”

Archibald said nothing, opting to drink his water and hoping no one noticed the red in his cheeks.

“Well then it’s settled!” Oliver said with a hint of finality as he began digging into his meal.

-----

Despite the less than ideal sleeping arrangements, the trio managed to relax: Food, drinks, chatting idly about little things.

Night came quickly and true to Oliver’s warning, Abigail could feel exhaustion ebb into her bones.

The trio made their way to rest and as they dropped off Oliver to his little tiny room, they couldn’t help but ask.

“You sure?” Abigail eyed the broom closet distastefully “You could always sleep in our room. With Archibald.”

Archibald pointed to the floor jokingly.

Oliver gave tired chuckle “I’m good. I’ve slept worse places. Besides I need a break from all….this”

He motioned to the both of them. Abigail was unsure what he meant by that. Archibald simply shot daggers at him.

“Go” he shooed them away “Go and let me get some rest before I gotta deal with both of you in the morning.”

“Okay…..night Oliver.”

Archibald waved goodbye and the pair vanished up the stairs.

Oliver slipped into his room, a small place with a bed on one side and some walking space on the other. A window as wide as the room itself hung on the other end.

A tiny broom closet indeed.

Oliver locked the door behind him and placed his bag onto the floor. He took a moment to hide his lute and the more valuable possession he had, both monetary and sentimental. He cracked his fingers and neck before opening the letter the innkeeper slipped him. Oliver mentally mapped out the location scrawled on the paper then ripped it to shreds.

Oliver brushed clean his outfit from the day’s grime and made his way over to the window. The dwarfish panels shifted to night mode: the warm bright light of the day replaced with a cool, silvery glow that darkened the underground. He pulled out the magic filters from his pocket and put them on. He lifted the window and was grateful the barrier kept the sound outside from coming in.

“Thank god it’s the second floor” he murmured to himself as he began to climb out.

-----

4 hooded figures were huddled in the darkness of an alley, deeply engrossed in their conversation.

The tallest, a muscular woman, fidgeted unhappily “We been waiting for 30 minutes. I don’t think the guy is gonna show.”

Another cloaked figure, a woman a head and half shorter than her companion gently took her hand in her own “Sweetie you need patience.”

The muscular woman flushed in embarrassment “I know Flora but you know how I get antsy when I gotta wait. I hate waiting!”

“I know Terri but we must wait. He will be here. Correct Tyrell?”

Tyrell, a younger gentleman of 20 scratched his chin thoughtfully “That’s what the message said. Came in this morning on the West Gate board. Said he was traveling with some people but he’d meet up with us within the hour of the meeting time.”

“Ugh” Terri groaned “We should get a move on. The party isn’t going to last all night and we got work to do. We need to find the...”

“Wait.” The last figure whispered quietly “I hear something.”

The group held their breath, fists clasped tightly so they can hear what was approaching.

It was faint but Terri could hear the soft patter of footsteps. They moved with such a gentle foot that only Terri’s years of survival training allowed her to catch it.

Terri stood up to her full height, her thick muscular arms tensed for a fight as a shadow inched closer to the group.

“Show yourself!” Terri shouted, falling into a fighting position.

Oliver stepped out of the darkness, his hands lazily in his pockets.

Flora eyed him carefully “Very weird to be wandering back alleys, no sir?”

Oliver cleared this throat “My name is Oliver, First Chair Soprano in The Choir.”

The group shared a surprised look with one another. Their missing fifth member had finally arrived.

“Now.” Oliver spoke with a mischievous smirk “Who we robbing for the greater good?”

[judgmentofcorruption]

Episode 1–The Boy Embraces His Ambition; Scene 2

Judgment of Corruption, pages 23-31

After the head judge informed them of the date and time he would announce his verdict, court adjourned for the day.

"What do you think?"

As people were steadily starting to get up and leave the courtroom, Loki Freezis, sitting next to Gallerian, started to talk to him.

"What do I think about…what?" Gallerian replied, putting his notebook in his bag.

“About the verdict of the trial. How do you think it’s gonna go?”

"It's undoubtedly going to be the death sentence."

“Bet so. As far as I’ve seen with all of the precedent cases, there hasn’t been a single person accused of ‘witchcraft’ who was found innocent. And when a guilty verdict for violating the law on witchcraft is handed down, there’s no way to avoid the death penalty…Sigh.”

“Why the sigh?”

“There’s nothing more boring than a trial where you already know the outcome. If we have to watch it for our studies, I wish it could have been a more interesting case.”

“This is part of the curriculum to get credits, so there’s nothing for it, right? …And I don’t think you ought to differentiate between trials based on whether they’re interesting or not.”

After finishing getting his things around, Gallerian stood. Loki followed suit, and the two of them started to walk to the exit side by side.

"You always take things so seriously, Gallerian. Well, I guess that’s why you’re the youngest student at Levin University at age fourteen, and able to stay at the top of the class to boot.”

Gallerian’s expression didn’t change one twitch despite the praise.

“It’s just happenstance. On that last test my score only differed from yours by twelve points.”

“Those twelve points may seem small, but it’s a big difference. The difference between first and second place, you know. In the end I wasn’t able to flip our positions, despite my efforts.”

Once outside the building, two large trees flanking the main entrance could be seen, budding. The two boys walked through them.

“It’ll be graduation soon,” Loki murmured as he faced forward, sounding deeply moved.

“Yeah, it will. But…The real performance is yet to come.”

“Our bar exams, you mean? We can’t join the Dark Star Bureau without taking those. …But well, I think that’ll be an easy task for me and you.”

“…I hope it is,” Gallerian replied, his expression downcast.

What could he be worrying about? –I had a rough idea.

Just as Loki said, Gallerian was an exceptional student. He’d had no problems relating to his behavior. Someone who didn’t know of his circumstances would naturally think he was a shoo-in for joining the Dark Star Bureau as he hoped.

But the current head of the Dark Star Bureau was Hanma Baldured, just as it had been fourteen years before.

So then, would he accept so readily Gallerian’s entry, given that he was the son of a witch?

…Gallerian knew what kind of person his mother had been. And he knew why she had disappeared from him when he was a baby.

--Appearing not to notice Gallerian’s anxiety at all, Loki suddenly changed the topic and posed this question to Gallerian: “By the way—why do you want to become a judge?”

“…? What do you mean?”

“I’m just thinking, if you wanted to you could have chosen any other path. Like…going into government. After all is said and done, you’re from the once royal Marlon family line. Personally I’ve always wondered if maybe that isn’t more your cup of tea.”

“…Are you crazy, Loki?” Gallerian sighed, looking stupefied. “It’s because I’m a descendant of the Marlon Royal line that I can’t. The Viwirtz family runs the country of Marlon now. After they became sovereign over Marlon in place of the Marlon royal family, you really think they’d look well on someone from the Marlon line becoming a bureaucrat when it might invite disaster?”

“…Ah, so even if, for argument’s sake, you were able to get in, you couldn’t hope for any advancement. –But you wouldn’t need to become a bureaucrat in your home country, you know. You could try here in Levianta, or in Lucifenia, or someplace like that.”

“Given that the USE framework exists, and the Viwirtz royal family has a lot of influence in it, it would still be the same. If I wanted to get anywhere in the world of politics—I would have to move somewhere like the United States of Maistia, to the far west across the sea.”

“Maistia huh…That would be pretty interesting though, wouldn’t it? I’ve been there a few times when I was a kid, it’s a nice place. It’s not all squalid like Evillious is.”

“Then you go there. Maybe go be president or something. I’ve got no interest in politics from the outset. Becoming a judge has always been a dream of mine.”

“Huh…Why?”

“…”

Rather than answering that question, instead Gallerian returned it to Loki. “What about you? I think it’s a little strange for a son of the Freezis Conglomerate to want to become a judge.”

The Freezis Conglomerate was an organization that had been established roughly four hundred years before, originally going by the name of the “Freezis Foundation”, made to manage the fortune that the great merchant Keel Freezis left behind. That had been its original purpose, but in its present state it might be more accurate to call it a multinational corporation run by the Freezis family descending from Keel. With their moneylending using Keel’s fortune as funds, their overseas trade with the continent of Maistia and the far East, as well as their mining of subterranean resources, their capital strength had vastly increased; now the conglomerate was not just a main economic power, but also one that held great influence in the political stage as well.

And the Freezis family stood at the top of this conglomerate. It was natural that Gallerian would have doubts on Loki pursuing an education on law, given that he was a direct descendent.

“Hahah, you’ve dodged the question, Gallerian.”

“I’m just embarrassed to say my dreams for the future so openly. If you say that your reason is the same as mine, because becoming a judge is your dream, then I won’t pry any further.”

“I suppose…In my case it’s a little different. To be more accurate, it’s my destiny as a member of the Freezis family to be at the very top of the justice system—the director of the USE Dark Star Bureau.”

“Your ‘destiny’, huh?”

“Yes, my ‘destiny’. Though my father is the Freezis commander, I’m the third son. My oldest brother is next in line for succession, and my second oldest brother is working as an administrative official for the USE joint government. And so if I’m able to get into the Dark Star Bureau and advance through the ranks—”

“Then that means the conglomerate will be able to have its hands in both the economy, the government, and the justice system.”

“Exactly. The World Police is an organization that was originally started by the Freezis Foundation, so the current Freezis Conglomerate still has a strong influence on it. If all goes well, then my family—no, the entire Freezis Conglomerate, will gain a massive amount of power in the USE,” Loki explained, his eyes sparkling as he did. Gallerian glanced at him from the side with a calm gaze, and yet also with some jealousy.

“…You have plans on such a broad scale. It’s got nothing to do with me.”

“There’s no need to get so abject about it. Even you sort of have a connection to the Freezis family in your genes.”

Just as Loki said, Gallerian’s great-great-grandmother was a member of the Freezis family. Though this person was a distant relative removed from the main family line, and in the present day Gallerian had never received any benefits for it.

Even so, it seemed it was because of this connection that the two of them had become fast friends so soon after entering college. I had no idea what they had thought of each other in their first meeting, but judging from the look of them now one could say that they were, without a doubt, “best friends”.

“—Well, supposing the both of us do get into the Dark Star Bureau that would make us ‘rivals’,” Gallerian sighed.

“Oh? So you’ve got your eye on the director’s chair too, Gallerian. …Well, you would, wouldn’t you. Someone without ambitions would never have studied with so much zeal. But, university grades notwithstanding, I’ve got no intention of conceding a single step to you. What’s sought in scholarship and what’s sought in practical experience are two different things, after all.���

“That’s true. Getting to the top of the Dark Star Bureau isn’t gonna be so easy that I can get a big head about it.” Lifting his index finger, Gallerian asked Loki, “I’ve got one thing I’d like to know. Loki—what do you think of the ‘Witch Trials’?”

Loki appeared to think for a moment, before replying, “…I think it’s something we just have to do. It is true that some unknown power is causing chaos in this world right now.”

“So you think witches truly exist?”

“Yeah,” Loki returned decisively. Then he lowered his voice a little and continued, “Actually. The Freezis Conglomerate had secretly been conducting research into ‘witches’ for centuries. I’ve read papers on it that we keep in our archives.”

“Wow…I’m a little intrigued.”

“Unfortunately they’re top-secret documents, and only direct members of the family are allowed to read them. So I can’t tell you a lot of what’s in them, but—in the past, and in the present day, witches do really exist.”

“…”

“Even if the Freezis Conglomerate rules the world, it doesn’t mean anything if that world is destroyed. So when I become the director, I’ll use my judicial powers to soundly exterminate all witches…I think that’s another mission in my life.”

“…I see.”

Gallerian lowered his eyes for a moment.

And then he quickly opened them, smiled, and said, “Except, I’m the one who’s going to become the director.”

“So you said. Well, I know that you’re quite exceptional. When Director Loki Freezis is born, I think he’ll make little Gallerian here into his second-in-command.”

The two walked along the road, joking with each other.

<<prev------directory------next>>

[lapinbunwrites]

Lion’s Gift Exchange

Rating: Not Rated

Warnings: None

Fandom: Fire Emblem Three Houses

Characters: Byleth, Dimitri, Dedue, Sylvain, Felix, Ingrid, Annette, Ashe, Dedue, Mercedes

Word Count: 2,444

Ao3 Link

As Byleth watched the snow fall, it reminded him of all the times he played outside in the snow with his father’s mercenary group. His father often told him that he loved playing in the snow whenever they were in Faerghus. He would often whine when they would leave. Maybe he’ll move there one day. After a few minutes of watching the snow, Byleth walked to his classroom. 

“Welcome Professor,” Dimitri greeted him. 

“You’re just in time!” Annette said, excitedly. 

“In time for what?” Byleth asked. 

“The gift exchange!” 

“Gift exchange?” 

“It’s a pointless event,” Felix said. 

“It’s a tradition in Faerghus we call Sothis Day. At the beginning of the Red Wolf Moon, we put our names in a hat and pick a piece of paper. Whose name is on the paper we get a gift for. Once we do, we put it under a tree and open them on the last day of the month.” Ingrid informed. 

“And the best part is that nobody knows who got who,” Sylvain said. 

“That sounds lovely,” Mercedes chimed in. 

“We need a tree or something to put presents somewhere,” Byleth said. 

“We can use the one that Sylvain has,” Ingrid said. 

“Wait-That’s a gift for someone!” 

“What kind of woman wants a tree as a gift?” 

“Uh..I’ll get the tree.” 

While Sylvain went to go get the tree, and while the students bickered back and forth, Byleth wrote down their names and place the paper in a hat. He walked around, watching his students pick one by one. Once Sylvain was back, Byleth instructed him to put the tree by the window. He was then given the last name that they had. Sylvain smirked and knew what to get the person. 

                                                -----x-----

Each and every day for the past week Byleth would stare the tree. It was so plain and not very festive. His students became increasingly concerned. A few of them stood around the tree, trying to figure out what was wrong with it. 

“There must be something wrong with this tree,” Ashe said. 

“Yes, but what?” Mercedes asked. 

“Ooh, I don’t know. I don’t see anything wrong with it,” Annette said. “It’s just a plain tree.” 

“Maybe it just that,” Dedue said. 

“What do you mean?” 

“Maybe if we put some decorations on it, it would liven up the tree.” 

“What a wonderful idea Dedue! Maybe I can sew up a couple of things!” 

“Oh, like a tree skirt!” 

“Heehee! Yeah!” 

“Ashe and I can find ornaments or something!” 

“That’s a great idea!” 

Both Annette and Ashe walked out of the classroom and into town. 

“Would you like to help me with sewing?” Mercedes asked. 

“I’m afraid that my sewing skills are less than adequate,” Dedue replied. 

“That’s okay! Sometimes it’s better to make something yourself than buying it!” 

Dedue faintly smiled and followed her back to her room to help her with sewing. 

Ashe and Annette walked around town, trying to procure some decorations. Every store the went to, and every store they passed by, didn’t have any. 

“Awe, no store has anything,” Annette said. 

“I didn’t think finding decorations would be so hard,” Ashe said. “We can keep searching around.” 

“Hm..I don’t think we would be able to find anything.” 

“Hm…” 

“Hm…” 

A few seconds of silence. 

“Oh! I have an idea!” 

“What’s that?” 

“We can make our own ornaments!” 

“Ar-Are you sure? Would it better to keep searching around?” 

“I think it would be to make! Plus, if we look for too long it’s going to get dark, then...then...gh…” She trailed off. She was starting to scare herself. 

Ashe was starting to shake. He knew what she was going to say. “D-Don’t say it!” 

“Ghosts will come out!” 

“Ah!” He screamed as he held onto Annette tightly. “Yo-You’re right. Let’s make them ourselves!” 

When the two calmed down, they stopped at a few craft stores and a bakery to pick up some supplies. They picked up strings, hooks, apples, and some pastries. Once done, they made their way back to Garreg Mach and Mercedes' room. 

“Wow Mercie,” Annette started, “your tree skirt looks amazing!” 

“Thank you! Dedue and I also made a garland to go on the tree!” 

“Wow that’s amazing,” Ashe complimented. 

“I think it could have been sewn better,” Dedue said, referring to the portion he sewed. 

“Don’t say that! I think it looks amazing!” 

“He’s right!” 

Dedue gave a soft smile to his friends. 

“What do you have there?” 

“We have some stuff to make ornaments!” 

“Annette and I couldn’t find any shops with decorations.” 

“Did you try Anna?” 

“Surprisingly, she didn’t have anything.” 

“Oh, but at least we have something!” 

They all dug into the bags, each grabbing a few of the items. Dedue and Ashe made ornaments in the shapes of stars and flowers with the apples while Mercedes and Annette made ornaments in to shapes of hearts with the pastries. It to them most of the night to make, and instead of going back to their rooms, they decided to have a sleepover. In the morning, all four of them rushed to the classroom. Lucky for them, Byleth wasn’t there. Only Sylvain and Dimitri. 

“What are you guys doing?” Sylvain asked. 

“We are putting decorations on the tree!” Annette said. 

“They don’t seem to be any ornaments out of tin or anything,” Dimitri said. 

“That’s because they are made out of food!” 

“We should probably notify Ingrid not to eat them.” 

“We don’t have to tell her that they are made of food. She’ll never know.” 

“Sylvain, you know that will not work.” 

“It’s only a suggestion.” 

Dimitri sighed. “At any rate, we should put these decorations on the tree before the Professor arrives.” 

They took the next twenty minutes put everything together. When Ingrid and Felix walked in, Felix sighed an audible sigh of irritation at the sight of Sylvain sitting on top of Dedue’s shoulders. Ingrid felt the same, but she was at the point where she was expecting this. 

“What’s going on?” Felix asked. 

“Putting ornaments on the tree,” Sylvain replied. He got off Dedue’s shoulders and pointed at it. “Looks nice right?” 

“No.” 

“Oh come on! People worked really hard on this.” 

“So? Why even bother? We have more important things to worry about.” 

“Oh, is someone grumpy because they didn’t get someone they wanted?” Sylvain teased. 

“No! I got dragged into this stupid event when I didn’t want to participate this year!” Felix yelled. “If it weren’t for the Professor, I wouldn’t be caught up this mess.” 

“Well then. I thought it would be fun to have this little event to cheer you guys up,” Byleth said, walking into the room. “Especially after the past few months.” As he walked to the front of the room, he noticed the tree. “I like what you’ve guys done to the tree.” 

Annette, Ashe, Mercedes, and Dedue smiled with validation. 

“What’s up with the ornaments?” Ingrid asked. “Why is there food on the tree?” 

Sylvain looked over to Dimitri in disbelief. He shrugged. He knew Sylvain was a smart man, but the fact he couldn’t predict a long-time friend's actions was rather astonishing. 

After the day's lecture, the eight of them discussed whether or not if they should get Byleth a present. Everyone was in agreement that they should. It took them some time, but they were able to figure out what they wanted to get him. They all pulled their money together and gave it to Dimitri. 

Within the next couple of days, there were a few gifts under the tree. It wasn’t all that hard to figure out what to give each other since they’ve grown so much with each other. Sylvain walked into town with a smile on his face and a whistle coming out of his mouth. He was all too happy. He was thrilled that he got Dimitri. He walked up to a merchant and looked at what they had. Books. That’s exactly what he is looking for. 

Sylvain skimmed over each and every book title, hoping to find one specific book. His smile got bigger when he found the one he wanted. He paid for it and walked back to Garreg Mach. On his way back, he saw Mercedes. He noticed that she looked confused. 

“Hey there Mercedes,” Sylvain greeted. 

It took a few seconds for her to react. 

“Oh, hello Sylvain,” she said. 

“Whatcha looking at?” 

“Some daggers.” 

It didn’t take long for him to realize who she got. Felix. 

“Go with the Toothed Dagger. It’s cheap and he’s been eyeing this for a while.” 

“What?” 

“You got Felix, didn’t you?” 

“How did you know? I thought this was all anonymous.” 

“Technically, yes. But sometimes you can guess who someone got by the things they are buying, if you are paying attention.” 

“Oh.” 

“Also, every time someone gets Felix with this exchange, they always give him a dagger.” 

“Oh, I see. Maybe I should get him something else,” she sighed. 

“Nah. He’ll love it all the same.” 

Mercedes giggled and got him the dagger. The two walked back to the Monastery. They wrapped the presents and placed them with the others. There were now five gifts under the tree. 

                                                 -----x-----

It was only a few days left until the end of the month. Sothis Day was quickly approaching. Felix still didn’t have his present for his giftee. He was putting it off so he could focus on something more ‘important.’ It wasn’t until Sylvain pestered him about it that he decided to go buy a gift. He walked to Anna’s shop and looked at what she had. She didn’t have much of anything that his giftee wanted or needed. She showed him one last thing. Sewing supplies. It was a perfect gift. 

“A present for someone special?” Anna asked with a wink. 

“No! It’s for a gift exchange for a tradition Faerghus.” 

“Ah, well, it’s a perfect gift nonetheless.” 

“Yeah, yeah.” 

Felix paid for the supplies and went to the classroom. He quickly wrapped the gift and left it under the tree. 

                                                -----x-----

Twas the night before Sothis Day and both Dedue and Ashe were baking their gifts. They took most of the night making them to perfection. The wrapped them nicely and made sure the gifts had the correct names on them. 

The next day, everyone gathered around the tree. There were eight presents underneath it. Byleth walked in and looked at his students. They were all so eager to open them. He walked closer to the tree, grabbing a couple of gifts. 

“This one is for Ingrid,” he said, giving it to her. “This one is for Annette, Felix, Ashe.” He then looked at one of them, squinting at the handwriting. “D-Dimi, Dimitri.” It was Sylvain's terrible handwriting. “Here you go Sylvain, Dedue, and Mercedes.” 

“Oh, wow,” Ingrid started, “my favorite treats.” She took a bit of one of them. “It’s sooo good!” She shoved some more of the treats into her mouth. “Thabk youb!” 

Dedue smiled. He was happy that she loved his gift. He opened his present and saw the gardening supplies. He felt warm inside. 

Dimitri knew he would love his gift. He opened his and sighed. It was a book that was titled, “How To Pick Up Girls And Pick Up Lines.” He looked over to Sylvain with a glare. 

He laughed it off, knowing he will pay for that later while they train. As for his gift, it wasn’t much different than the one he gave the prince. It was a book titled, “How To Be A Gentleman.” He looked over Ingrid. She smiled at him, fully expecting him to read the book. She was tired of chasing him around. Though, it still wasn’t going to stop him. 

Annette opened her gift and was amazed at her gift. It was brownies in the shape of snowflakes. She started to eat them and became pleasantly surprised. “Ooo, so sweet! These are so tasty!” 

Ashe was really happy and proud of the sweets that he made turned out fantastic. He was really nervous about how they turned out. But thanks to Dedue, they turned out great. He opened his gift and saw the ghost charm. Annette giggled when she saw his face turn red. It was like Ashe was trying to hide his fear of ghosts. 

Felix opened his gift. The Toothed Dagger. He showed a small, almost unnoticeable smirk on his face. On this inside, though he will not admit it, he was happy to get it as his gift. 

Mercedes looked over to him and took his small smirk as him loving his gift. When she opened hers, she was absolutely thrilled. “Oh, wow! These are such beautiful colors! I can’t wait to sew new things!” Felix would still never admit it, but it felt nice to see a big smile across Mercedes’ face. 

A smile grew across Byleth’s face when he heard his student's joyous conversations and happiness. It had been a long while since he felt a warm feeling inside his chest. His students looked at him and smiled. They gathered around him, handing him a gift. 

“What’s this?” He asked. 

“A gift,” Dimitri said. “From all of us.” 

“Since you’ve become our professor, it’s kind of like you’ve become apart of our family.” Ingrid smiled. 

“Our terrible, messy family,” Felix commented. 

“A family nonetheless.” She said. She looked back over to Byleth. “You’ve taught us, trained us, grown with us these past few months, we’ve decided to get you a gift!” 

“We know it’s not much, but we hope it’ll suffice,” Dedue said. 

“I-I don’t know what to say.” Byleth smiled. This was a whole new feeling for him. He didn’t know how to describe it other than happiness. “Thank you.” 

“Please open it!” Annette said. 

Byleth let out a sigh. “I wish I could, but I’ll have to after my mission with my father.” 

“Awe!” 

He patted Annette’s head and gave her a soft smile before he left the classroom. Later that night, after his mission, he picked up his gift. 

“What’s that?” Jeralt asked. 

“A gift from my students.” Byleth replied. 

He opened his gift and smiled a big smile. It was a light blue necklace in the shape of a lion. Jeralt smiled as the necklace reminded him of something that his son made for him not so long ago. He kissed his child’s head and told him to go to bed, only to be told the same thing. Byleth took one last look at the necklace one last time before placing it on his desk and going to bed. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This is my @nagamas gift to meryuukan on Ao3! I got a few prompts and the one I did was the Blue Lions class gift exchanging! I based it mostly off of a secret Santa. I hope you enjoyed!

[suzubelle-chan]

Someday Someplace Chapter 2 Evening Encounters

A Casnor Childhood Romance AU

Just some reminders like 90% of the cast belongs to @s-kinnaly, @ridersoftheapocalypse, and @mrneighbourlove. Also, this an AU of rider’s fanfiction, where Cass and Ralnor meet and fall in love as kids rather than adults. This is fanfiction of fanfiction-seperate timeline going on here. Just to clear up any confusion. One more thing, I edited the bit in the previous chapter about Ralnor’s skin tone since s-kinnaly is designing him with brown skin and I want to keep my works close to what you see in her art. Okay, enjoy the fic!

As Orana sat on her father’s shoulders, she scanned the crowd, hand over her eyes. “No sign of him here,” she called out.

The king shrugged, "Well it was worth a shot. Keep looking, dear."

"Okay, papa!" Orana replied and looked out again into the crowd.

Right next to them, Zelda held Tebanam, Covarog, and Kanisa next to her skirt. “Mama, how come we aren’t yelling Ralnor’s name?” the princess asked. “Isn’t that what we are supposed to do when we lose someone?”

“I can do that!” Orana declared. She took in a deep breath. However, her father clasped her mouth with his hand, silencing her yell.

“It is true. But we are royalty. That adds on other problems in finding.  People could panic if they found out that Ralnor is missing, running around and in searching they might not pay attention and accidentally hurt him. Or people might try to find him, but then hold him for ransom. We are trying to stay as quiet for as long as we can.”

“But I miss him, mama.” Kanisa sighed.

“Me too! We’ve got to get Ralnor back!” Covarog agreed.

“Ral!” Tebanam declared.

“I know darlings. I miss him too.”

“Is he going to be okay, Papa?” Orana asked.

“He will be,” Ganondorf stated, patting her. He then growled, “He will be.”

Zelda walked on over, patting her husband’s side. “Of course he will. We’ll make sure of it. I just can’t imagine what Ralnor is doing right now.

Indeed, with all the Wisdom she held, Zelda would have never imagined her son pulling on a piece of leather with all his might with a Gerudo girl pulling on the other end. All while, her mother narrated the events to a small crowd watching beyond the stall.

“See folks? Resists wear and tear!” Ukuri declared. There were some oohs and awes in the crowd. "You won't find high-quality leather anywhere else!" Then she smirked a bit. "Alright kids, now push!"

Ralnor took a step before straightening up. He looked up at the woman and asked her “What?” However, he failed to look back in time to see Cass ram into him, sending them both into the ground. Ukuri and crowd burst into laughter.

"Well, that's something you don't see every day!” The Gerudo woman chuckled. “So anyone interested in some leathers?”

As the merchant took in some orders, Ralnor watched the little triforce pieces swirling around his head.

“I’m sorry,” the girl lamented, still on the ground and eyes on the ground.

Ralnor shook his head, scattering the pieces away. He smiled, “It’s okay. I’m used to it. Sometimes my siblings and I get excited when it comes to group hugs.”

“What’s a sibling?” Cass asked.

“You know, it’s a brother or a sister.”

“Oh, you sure do know some fancy words Ralnor.”

“Just from books that I read.” The boy blushed, rubbing the back of his head. That is when his stomach gurgled, his cheeks pink. “Sorry.”

“Hey, when your tummy’s hungry its hungry.” Cass shrugged. “No need to blush.”

That is when Cass’s stomach roared, her own cheeks turning pink.

“Whoa is there a monster in your belly?" Ralnor asked.

“Shut up.” Cass mumbled.

“Well looks like I’ve got some hungry little kiddos on my hands.” Ukuri beamed, turning to the kids while filling her bag. She picked up a silver rupee and handed it to Cass. “How about you get us some grub?”

"Okay, mommy."

“Grub? Like bugs?” the boy flinched and twisted

“No, she means food." Cass giggled. "You may know the fancy words, but I guess I know some fun ones. She patted him on shoulder, “Don’t worry, I’ll teach you everything I know." She fidgeted with her belt, revealing a small pouch and slipped the rupee inside. "Any requests?"

“I’ll take some cuckoo. You kids get whatever you want.”

“Yeah!” The girl cheered and took the boy’s hand.

“At least something that resembles real food. Not too many sweets or candy. I will be checking all pockets when you too get back.”

“Ugh! Fine!” the girl groaned.

“Ralnor I think you need to keep an eye on her for me,” the mother commented with a smile.

“Don’t worry ma’am I will.” The boy replied.

Just as the two children slipped out the back, a knight appeared at the stall. Ukuri jumped a bit, then took a deep breath and straightened out her skirt.

“Good day my lord. How may I help you today?”

"Pardon me, ma'am. There is a slight emergency I must announce. There is a missing noble boy and his family is dreadfully worried about him. He has blonde hair and blue eyes and is wearing green clothes. Has anyone seen a child like that?"

The group of customers shook there or murmured no.

Ukuri huffed, “A boy with blonde hair? In this country? Sorry, I think you are looking for a needle in a haystack.”

“Well, keep your eyes open. Any and all information would be appreciated.” The man gave a slight bow and left.

When the crowd left, Ukuri grabbed a rag and rubbed the shelf a little too hard. “Typical. Some rich bastard’s brat goes missing and they’ll send out the guard. Meanwhile, a Gerudo girl goes missing and no one gives a damn.” She then glanced at the door. “Nah, couldn’t be.” She murmured, still scrubbing.

The kids glanced all around at the stalls. Food descriptions.

“See anything you like?” Cass asked.

“I’m not sure…” Ralnor admitted.

“Well, I think I found a stall with cuckoo for Mommy. Maybe there’s something for you here.”

The two children stood in line, glancing at the large black sign with all the foods and prices in white. “Aw sweet! They’ve got onion rings!” the girl declared. “Those are my favorites.”

“Okay…” the boy stared at the sign. His eyes scanning around, not settling on any of those words.

“Anything wrong?” Cass asked.

“Well…I don’t know what any of these things are,” Ralnor admitted.

Cass blinked at the boy and started to laugh her head off. “Aw man Ralnor. You are a riot!" She continued to laugh until she looked at the blank face of the boy. "You are actually serious, aren't you?"

“Yes.”

"Oh, Ralnor. I’m sorry. I mean, I thought you were a rich kid, but wow,” Cass pondered, hand now on her cheek.

“Mama usually only lets us have sweets at fairs or after dinner.” He admitted. “We sometimes can get Papa to give us snacks though when we are working on homework.

“Don’t you worry.” Cass pulled him in, arm around his shoulders. She patted her chest. “I am what you call a cuss-ne-sir of outdoor foods. Just ask me.”

“I think the word is connoisseur.”

Cass smirked, “ Okay smarty pants. Just read off some foods and tell you what they are. I’m sure there’s something you’ll like.”

“Okay…what is…a cheese frit-ter?”

“Oh, that's cheese covered in a batter and all fried up."

“Fried?”

“They take something like grease or fat or butter and boil it, and then they put food into it until gets all nice and crispy. Anything else?”

“What’s a Stuffed Spud?”

“That’s a potato that’s been baked and then put all kinds of good stuff in it. Sour cream, chives, cheese, bacon bits, butter-it’s really good.”

“Uh…I don’t eat bacon…”

“Me neither. Mom says it’s a Gerudo thing. You order your own fixings so it’s fine.”

“Maybe…what are fries?”

“Okay, now I’m starting to get worried about your lifestyle. Fries are potatoes cut up into strips and fried up. They make a great snack and usually come with a lot of meals.”

“So then what’s a grilled cheese?”

Cass sighed, “Let me ask you a question, you do know what a cheese sandwich is right?”

“Of course I do!”

"Just checking.” The girl stepped back, palms shielding her. “I was starting to think you came from like a different world or something. Well, grilled cheese is basically a cooked cheese sandwich. You just put in a pan until you burn the bread a bit and melted the cheese.”

“Well, I think I’ll take a grilled cheese then. With some fries too.”

“Excellent choice! Trust me, you’ll love it!”

The children ordered their food and weaved their way through the crowd. When the two children returned to the stall, Ukuri sighed. “Thank the goddesses! For a while there I thought I had two lost children on my hands.”

“Here you go Mommy, fried cuckoo wings!” the girl offered up the paper box overflowing with wings and fries.

"Thanks, kiddo. I'll go shut the stall and we’ll dine in the back.”

Right after the woman lowered the blind, closing them off to the word, a large stomping rattled the stall. “Yeesh, some customers," Ukuri grumbled. She then turned to see her daughter starting to take one of the hangings off the wall, food on one of the higher boxes, and Ralnor glancing around, checking the boxes.

“What are you looking for kiddo?” Ukuri asked.

“A napkin,” the boy responded.

“What for? We haven’t even started eating.” Cass stated giving the fabric one last tug before it fell on top of her.

“You can’t eat a meal without a napkin. Maybe a snack, but a not a meal.” Ralnor countered.

“Let me guess one of your mother’s rules?” Ukuri asked.

“Yes, ma'am. Plus I don’t want to get crumbs or stains on the hanging.”

“Kid let me tell you something, I learned when I lived with my mama.” The merchant knelt down, large arm wrapping the child close. “As long as your mama is not around, she won’t mind if you get a little messy. I’ll make sure you’re clean enough for her. Plus, Cass and I eat and sleep on these things all the time. I know how to get any stains out.”

Cass popped her head, hanging wrapped around her . “It’s true,” she declared.

“Are you sure? I really don’t want to make a mess.” He gazed up with wide, nervous eyes.

Ukuri sighed and smiled, “Well, I've got some rags upstairs that will do the job just fine if you want one.

"Yes, please. Thank you.”

“No worries hun. You are so sweet.”

As Ukuri left, Cass commented as she laid down the hanging, "Wow you got one of those strict fancy moms.” She then grabbed the boxes off the boxes and sat down.

The boy sat down next to her, he admitted.“She does kind of get mad when my siblings and I pull pranks or bring mud in the house or when we stay up late. But she always makes us feel better when we get bullied and really loves to help us with our homework.”

“She sounds nice, but I think I’ll take my mom any day of the week,” the girl said and then offered the boy his box.

The boy sat the box on his lap, cautiously took the sandwich with both hands. “I’ve never had anything so…wet and sticky…” He mentioned.

Cass chomped down on an onion ring as she spoke, “That’s called grease. It’s what the cook the food in. Just take a bite, it’s gonna not kill ya. Trust me. I’ve eaten this stuff plenty of times.” She then swallowed, a series of coughs following.  Cass pounded on her chest until she started breathing again.

“Okay…” Ralnor glanced at his friend nervously before looking at the dark sandwich in front of him, cheese slightly oozing out of the crust and took a small bite. The gooeyness of the warm cheese and the crunchiness of the bread filled his mouth. After swallowing, the boy said in awe, “This is good.”

"See, nothing to worry about," Cass stated. "Welcome to unhealthy-ish foods.”

“Ish?” Ralnor repeated.

“Because well cheese and bread are good for you, right? But, some people say all the healthy stuff gets lost when you fry foods like this. But I think still think there’s some left. Maybe not that much, but still some.”

Ralnor laughed. “I really like the way you think Cass.”

“Thanks.” The girl admitted, beaming.

As Ralnor continued to eat, he heard something hitting the ground repeatedly. That’s when he noticed the two dogs in the corner of the stall. The large white dog with almost green was wagging his tail, panting at the two of them. The black dog stared silently at them.

“Uh..what’s up with your dogs?”

“Oh, they always do that when it's meal time,” Cass shrugged. “Daddy used to let them have leftovers of their meals, just try looking away and you should be okay."

“Alright,” the prince stated as he turned around and tried to concentrate on his food. However, the sound of panting only got louder. He turned around slightly to see the larger dog right up in his face. "Hi, doggie," Ralnor greeted. Then the tog bit the crust out of his hand, tugging it away. He then sat down and started to chew on the leftover sandwich. “Hey!” the boy cried out.

“You gotta be careful around Noishe,” Cass commented. “He’ll take what he wants without warning. Gotta stay sharp.”

“What about that dog?” Ralnor pointed to the thin, black dog still in the corner.

“That’s Repede. He’s the quiet one. He doesn’t cause trouble much unless you have something you want.”

“Like what?”

Before Cass could reply, the dog slipped over, his head on the girl’s lap. Cass managed to grab her box of food before he could grab a piece.

“Fries for one thing.” The girl muttered as she patted his head. “Come one bro. Mommy doesn’t want you to have too much human food. You are not as young as you used to be.”

The dog growled a bit and started nuzzling her stomach.

The girl started to laugh, “Okay, just one more piece.” And she plucked off a fry and put it right in front of the dog’s mouth. The canine eagerly took the piece and started to eat.

Ukuri walked into the stall, some rags draped over her arm. “Cass, you better not be feeding the dogs cooked food again. You know its not good for them.”

“I’m just showing Ralnor what not to do around the dogs when they want food.”

“Really?” Ralnor asked.

Cass shushed him, “Come on Ralnor, just go along with it.”

“Sure you are, and that is not the sound of the dogs’ chewing.” Ukuri lamented as she sat down handing a rag to her guest. She then reached for her food still on the counter and joined the two children on the mat.

"Well, it's a lesson by trial and error." The girl shrugged.

The woman chuckled shaking her head. “You know Ralnor, I think I might have to save you from my girl. Who knows what kinds of things she’ll teach you if I left you two alone?”

“Like adult words?” Cass suggested.

“What are adult words?” Ralnor asked.

“You know the words that grownups say when they bang their heads on doorways or stub their toes on furniture.” The girl started to beam, “For example…”

Ukuri then picked up her daughter, spilling out onion ring and fry bits and crumbs everywhere, rubbing her hair with her knuckles. “That’s enough out of you!”

"Ack! Aw, come on Mommy! You said it's better to learn now than later! Besides I promised I’d teach him everything I know!"

“I’ll have to put an end to that lesson. For all I know, Ralnor’s mommy might pick me up, put me over her knee, and spank me for letting you teach Ralnor those words. And who knows what she’ll do to you.”

The two dogs eagerly attacked the pieces the food, licking up and chewing on everything they could find.

Ralnor couldn't help but laugh at the scene. He couldn’t help but think, "I still miss Mama, Papa, Covarog, Orana, Kanisa and Tebanam...but Cass and Ukuri they make me feel right at home. I'm really happy I met them. I can’t wait for my family to meet them."

With the sky starting to change into its usual evening red, orange, and yellow, the royal family still didn’t find their missing member. Tebanam napped inside his father’s arms, while the other children clung onto their parents' legs to support them, rubbing their eyes.

“Still no sign of him…” Zelda sighed, patting Kanisa’s bobbing head.

“We will find Ralnor, we can’t lose hope.” Ganondorf countered.

“But we’ve search all over,” the queen retorted. “The only thing left to do is go inside each stall and search.”

“If that’s we have to do, then so be it,” the king commented. “But first, we must take the children home.”

At the mention of them, Covarog, Kanisa, and Orana snapped up. “What?” They all screamed. Tebanam now wide awake by the noise, starting to whimper.

“But we can’t go home yet!” Orana declared. “We haven’t found Ralnor yet!”

“We can’t leave him behind! We just can’t!” Covarog declared.

“We can still help!” Kanisa interjected before a yawn cut her off.

The king smiled, sparing one hand to pat Kanisa’s head. Zelda stroked Orana's and Covarog’s heads. “Yes, but you are also very much exhausted. You need to go to sleep.”

“No, we don't!" Covarog objected with the stomp of his foot.

“Yes, you do." The king then lifted the boy's chin with his fingers. "Don't worry, your mother and I will not stop searching for your brother. We will bring him home. But we also care about you, and you need to get to bed."

“I don’t think that I can sleep…with Ralnor out there….somewhere without us…” Orana sighed, staving off a yawn.

“Well at least, we’ll get you ready and you can try for us? Okay?” Zelda asked.

The three older children glanced at each other frowning. Tebanam grumbled a bit as his father swayed him, calming him down. Covarog sighed, “Okay let’s go home.”

The queen smiled, “I know this is hard. But we will find him soon.”

Covarog took his father’s free hand and the girls took their mother’s. However, just as they started the walk, Kanisa cried out, “That’s it!” digging her heels in the ground.

“Kanisa what’s it?” Zelda asked.

“That’s the stall! The one that Ralnor left for! It’s that one!” She pointed her free hand, bouncing up and down.

“Are you sure Kani? Looks like all the other plant stalls. What makes this one so special?” Orana asked.

“It’s got the most plants! The others didn’t have that many! If Ralnor didn’t go to this stall, then I don’t know about Ralnor at all!” Kanisa beamed.

The parents looked at each other, “Well it is worth a look,” Zelda admitted and the group headed to the stall. A young man stood in the back, pulling down on the tarp while the old lady still sat in her chair dozing off.

Covarog, Orana, and Kanisa immediately dashed into the stall, calling out “Ralnor!" while going around every pot and ducking under every table.

“Children stop!” Zelda called out.

The young man stopped his motion, staring blankly at the commotion. “Something tells me that you are not here for a houseplant.” He chuckled. Then he saw who he was talking to and gave a small bow, “Uh sorry your majesties. What can I help you with?”

“We are searching for our son Ralnor, brown skin, blonde hair, blue eyes, green clothes. He wandered off earlier today and we haven’t seen him since. We think he might have been here for a while. Have you seen him?” Ganondorf replied.

“Ooh sorry to hear that. Hope you find him. What time of day do you think he left?” The man asked.

“This morning. Before noon,” Zelda answered.

“Shoot. I didn’t see him. Most people don’t want to carry a heavy plant all day, so we don’t do much busy in the morning. I left Ma with the stall while I looked around. She might have seen something. Just hope her working ear is working again.” The man walked toward the old lady and started to yell “HEY MA!”

The woman snapped open, drool slipping out. She glanced around, adjusting her glasses “Who said that?”

“HEY MA! DID YOU SEE A BLOND BOY TODAY?” the man asked.

“Oi tone it down, I’m deaf but I’m not dead. You might raise your father back being that loud,” the old lady gristled.

“Ma, these parents lost their boy. He might have been here. Seen him?” her son asked.

“Boy…boy…boy,” the woman wondered.

The adults continued to stare, leaning closer waiting for her next words. But then the woman's head slipped back and started to snore.

“Ma!” the man called out. However, his mother continued to slumber.  He sighed, “Sorry about this your majesties. I wish we could help out more.”

Just there was a loud clatter. The royal couple and merchant turned to see Orana, leaning forward with her hand's out wide inches away from a broken pot, laying on its side.  Clay pieces and soil scattered on the ground, while a scrub bush lay helplessly on its side, roots exposed. "Whoopsie…" The princess stated.

“Orana!” Zelda called out.

“I’m sorry! I swear I just bumped it!” Orana stated.

“It’s okay, I needed to replant that one anyway,” the man replied.

“We’ll pay for the damages.” The king declared.

“No your majesty, it’s fine,” the merchant insisted.

As the three adults haggled over the pot, the princess made her way over to the little old lady, staring into space. The girl placed her hand on her lap. “I’m sorry I broke your pot. I’ll pay for it with my allowance.” She then dug into a small bag at her side.

The woman turned towards the child and smiled. "Ah what a sweet child. How can I ask money from such a kind soul? After the way you help that little girl earlier too. Don't worry. My son broke many a pot when he was your age."

“Little girl?” Orana asked.

“You know that cute little blonde you ran into. She came in here and you two ran around chasing each other. Then when she was crying you comforted her and took her away. I bet you have been friends for a long time.”

“You don’t think…” Orana glanced at her siblings.

“Can you tell us about this blonde girl?” Kanisa asked.

“Of course! One of the cutest children I’ve seen. Silky blonde hair, gorgeous blue eyes, green clothes, and the loveliest brown skin. Really put my kid to shame.”

"Thanks, mom I feel loved,” the man sighed.

“Where did I…and the blonde girl go?” Orana asked.

“Not sure…just saw you going to the left.” The old woman shrugged.

“Mama, Papa do you think that if we find the other girl we might find Ralnor?” Covarog asked.

"Well, it's the best lead we've had all day," Ganondorf admitted.

“Hope you find your kid soon.” The merchant stated.

“Thank you. Come on kids, let’s find your brother!” Zelda declared.

As the royal family left, the woman adjusted her glasses, sighing “What a lovely family. Mother’s a bit hairy though…”

The merchant laughed and placed a hand on her shoulder, “Ma don’t ever change.”

Ralnor and Cass watched out of the stall window, using their crossed arms as cushions as they rest their hands.

“Still nothing?” Cass asked.

“Yes,” Ralnor sighed.

“Sorry. I really thought we had a good spot and you’d find your family like that,” Cass stated with a snap.

“Well, I’m glad I’m here. If you hadn’t been at the stall, I probably just sat at the stall with that old lady, crying how my family left me. I’ve had a lot of fun today. Thanks for taking me in,” the boy leaned in.

“No problem, what are friends for?” Cass wrapped her arm around him, pulling him closer.

Ukuri stepped in, patting Ralnor on the shoulder. “Don’t worry. We’ll find your folks. I’ve just a couple of things to pack away and the dogs to put upstairs, then we can look around. You two kids head outside.”

"Yes, Ma'am."

"Okay, mommy."

Just as the kid’s reached the outside of the stall, Cass stopped, “Huh…I just realized I never asked what your parents look like.”

"My parents tend to stand out in a crowd, especially my papa. You'd know them the moment you see them."

“Probably, but not all Gerudos look alike. Some are tall, some are really tall, some are thin or fat, but we are all Gerudo. So what do your daddy and mommy look like?"

"My papa…"

“Ralnor!”

The children turned to see Orana and Kanisa running at them, arms open wide.

“Orana! Kanisa!” the boy cheered, opening his arms wide as well.

The two princesses tackled their brother, almost hitting him to the ground, knocking off his hat.

“Oh Ral, we're sorry we left you behind. We thought Mama and Papa knew you were at that plant stall!" Orana explained.

“We’ve missed you so much!” Kanisa sniffled, clutching her brother tightly.

“I’ve missed you too!” the boy eagerly returned their embrace, a few sniffles coming out.

"Sweet! That's one part of your family down!"

The reunited trio turned to the Gerudo girl smiling at them, hands on her hips.

There was a moment of silence before Orana yelled, “It’s a Gerudo girl!”

"Yes." The boy stood up and displayed his hand out.  "This is my friend Cass. We met at the plant stall and she and her mama took me in so I can look for you.” He used his other hand to display his family. Cass these are my sisters, Orana and Kanisa.”

“Nice to meet ya.” Cass offered a hand.

Kanisa gaped for a bit, before hiding behing her brother. She still stared in awe of the girl as she sqeauked out a hello.

Orana beamed and grabbing Cass’s hand with both of her own, shaking it violently . "Hi, there! Thanks for taking care of our big bro!"

Cass, still shaking from the girl’s grasp, tilted her head,“ Bro?”

“Ralnor!”

Just then the group of children turned to see Zelda dashing towards them.

“Mama!” he yelled and ran towards her and jumped right into her arms. Now sobbing, he nuzzled his head against her chest. “I’ve missed you so much.”

The force from her son caused Zelda to sit down, cradling her boy, “I’ve missed you too! I’m sorry we left you behind.”

“It’s okay. Next time I’ll double check with Papa.” He raised his head, smiling.

She beamed and kissed his forehead, “You smart thing you.”

The queen set her son on the ground and stood up. He took her hand and led her to Cass. “Mama, this is my new friend Cass. She found me at the stall and let me stay with her mama until I can find you.”

"I am so happy that my son is making such wonderful friends. Thank you so much for helping him." She knelt down, looking the girl in the eyes, smiling.

The Gerudo girl’s jaw dropped. She tugged her hand out of Orana’s and pointed at Ralnor.  She yelled, “YOU LIED TO ME!”

Ralnor blinked and squeaked out, “What?”

“You said you were a Gerudo. But you are not!" Cass pointed at Zelda. "You can only be a Gerudo if your mama! And she’s not! She’s the exact opposite!”

“Yes, we are! We are just as Gerudo as you!” Orana declared.

“No, you are not! Besides he’s  a boy!” Cass pointed to Ralnor. “There’s no such thing as a boy Gerudo!”

“Nuh-huh there’s Ganondorf!” Kanisa stated.

“Children please calm down.” Zelda ushered.

“Ganondorf’s not a Gerudo! He’s just a monster!” Cass roared, stomping her foot.

“Ralnor!”

The arguing group stopped to see Ganondorf stomping towards them, Tebanam still on his chest and Covarog trailing behind. The king scooped up his son and started to kiss his face.

“Papa!” The boy eagerly wrapped his arms around his neck.

“Cass this is our Papa, Ganondorf.” Orana declared. “So we are just as Gerudo as you!” Orana folded her arms on her chest.

“Yeah!” Kanisa agreed with her hands on her hips.

At the mention of his name, he looked down and saw the Gerudo girl. His jaw dropped slightly and eye widened with joy.

The same couldn't be said for Cass. She started to turn as pale as a sheet. Then let out a blood-curdling scream. Once the royal family could hear again, she slumped over on the ground.

“Cass!” Ralnor cried out. He climbed down his father’s front and knelt next to the girl. He flipped her over and patted her cheek, but she still didn’t wake up.

“What’s wrong with her?” Orana asked.

“Cass!”

The group now saw Ukuri, standing a few feet away from them, holding her head in her hands. She dashed over and picked up her daughter. “Cass, monkey, sweetie. Please wake up!” She shook the girl slightly, but still no response.  The mother twisted towards Ralnor. “What happened to her?”

“I don’t know!” He replied anxiously.  “She just looked at my Papa and screamed and fell over!”

“Papa?” That’s when the Gerudo woman noticed the king standing before her. She, too, turned and slumped over, still holding her child.

“Mrs. Ukuri!” Ralnor cried out. He then looked up at his father, tears clouding his eyes. "Papa…did you kill them?

"What no!" The king declared but it was too late. Ralnor now bawled his head off.

"We can't leave them like this," Zelda commented. "We'll take them back to the castle."

Ganondorf picked up both Gerudo women in his arms. All along the way back to the carriage and in the carriage ride to the castle, Ralnor kept glancing at his new friends. Hoping they would be alright.

Here’s a link to the previous chapter: Chapter 1 Marketplace

[bowan-deflorentine]

Extremely detailed character sheet template

Character’s full name: Bowan deFlorentine

Reason or meaning of name: OOC I like gender-neutral or masc-leaning names for all characters, and thought it sounded cool at the time! I just took “Bowen” and added an “a” to make it slightly more feminine, visually.

Character’s nickname: “Bo”

Reason for nickname: It’s short and cute!

Birth date: January 23rd (the day she hit lvl 10 in-game :P I use that for all my Wow RP characters)

Physical appearance

Age: 37

How old do they appear: About the same

Weight: 145lb / 65kg, an average healthy weight if on the lighter side

Height: 5′11″ / 180cm, taller than average for cis women

Body build: Angular, long-legged, lean

Shape of face: Oval-shaped, with sharp cheekbones and a strong jawline and strong chin

Eye color: Dark brown

Glasses or contacts: neither

Skin tone: Medium brown

Distinguishing marks: Broken nose, blind & scarred right eye

Predominant features: Probably the nasty dead eye

Hair color: Black

Type of hair: Thick and wavy

Hairstyle: Wears it long and down, or in a low ponytail tied with a ribbon

Voice: Low & rich with a heavy Gilnean lowborn accent

Overall attractiveness: Super subjective, but she’s got that handsome aging roughed-up scoundrel sailor look if you’re into that  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯  

Physical disabilities: Blind on her right side

Usual fashion of dress: Heavy leather or canvas coats, high collars, heeled, thigh-high leather boots, wide-brimmed hats with feathers in the band, loose long-sleeved blouses tucked into a high waistline, fencer's gloves

Favorite outfit: TBH probably her old Cavalier uniform and coat; a dark- and steel-blue laced-up vest, leather, with gold and brown trimmings and a wide-brimmed hat with a white feather in it. Single blue leather pauldron with the gold Cavalier star on it

Jewelry or accessories: Very little, usually one or two small hoop earrings. A golden wedding ring on a chain necklace under her shirt. No rings or bracelets

Personality

Good personality traits: Motherly, caring, charming, helpful, protective, curious

Bad personality traits: Moody, impulsive, stubborn, reckless, anxious, violent

Mood character is most often in: Current day, bitter and melancholic

Sense of humor: Inside jokes, straight-faced funny comments, good-natured teasing.

Character’s greatest joy in life: Her seven-year-old son, Rory.

Character’s greatest fear: Losing either Rory or Jeán, her husband.

Why?: Because she loves them, and they’re the only family she has left in the entire world, and she’s lost/ given up everything else in her life to protect them and to make a life for her family.

What single event would most throw this character’s life into complete turmoil?: She’s numb to everything that’s not extreme at this point, so again, losing either Rory or Jeán

Character is most at ease when: When her family is not only happy but safe, as are her close friends, and she’s at home somewhere warm and dry and comfortable and there's no war going on

Most ill at ease when: Someone she loves is missing, or hurt, or in great danger, or when she doesn't know where she is / is lost

Enraged when: Something threatens the safety of her loved ones or children

Depressed or sad when: When she’s isolated away from people she loves.

Priorities: She’s been forced into survival mode lately, so #1 is her family’s and her own safety. Beyond that, her son’s happiness, her husband’s happiness, her friends’ happiness, and then protecting others. She's happy when others are happy.

Life philosophy: There’s some good left in the world, and it’s worth fighting for. But family always comes first.

If granted one wish, it would be: To bring Timira Redsummer back

Why?: She was her closest friend and now she’s dead, and she’s tired of losing people and having no control over all the loss in her life.

Character’s soft spot: Children, and music

Is this soft spot obvious to others?: OH absolutely, she’s SUCH a mom. Her rough grimdark rogue sailor deal just vanishes around kids and she’s making funny faces and listening very intently to their babytalk stories and crouching all the way down so they can take her hand and lead her around to show her interesting things, etc. The usual supercute little kid stuff. She loves children and is very good with them.

Greatest strength: Never ever giving up when it comes to protecting others, accomplishing her goals at any means necessary, even at the cost of her own safety or health (which crosses very quickly into one of her greatest weaknesses)

Greatest vulnerability or weakness: She can be on the self-destructive side, and is easily goaded into fights against her better judgement because she can just not back down from a threat or a challenge.

Biggest regret: Leaving Teldrassil during the War of Thorns before the attack, when it was just citizens and adventurers and soldiers helping to evacuate / fortify / bring supplies to the city, as they were expecting a siege. She left to go get her ship in Stormwind and bring it as a back-up to get escaping citizens out in case they needed to evacuate. She sailed back to a completely burning tree.

Minor regret: Not having a wedding with Jeán. They had been together for a few years and had talked about getting married, but were too busy with work. They got hastily married on paper before she left for Kul Tiras.

Biggest accomplishment: Founding the Stormwind Cavaliers with Jeán, and the few years she spent as the captain for them. They did a lot of good work for the city and for the people, especially in the surrounding territories like Elwynn, Westfall, and Duskwood. 

Minor accomplishment: She can make the meanest cup of Gilnean black lavender tea

Past failures they would be embarrassed to have people know about: Actively sheltering a rogue Uncrowned agent and trying to cover up all the VERY obvious murders they kept committing under her watch while working for the city guard, oops   ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Why?: Because at the time, they were very close friends and she didn’t have the guts to make the tough calls.

Character’s darkest secret: As of now in the storyline, currently, hunting and sinking Horde ships out of revenge for Teldrassil. She hasn’t told a soul and uses an alias with the crew she works with.

Does anyone else know?: Not yet! 

Goals

Drives and motivations: She wants vengeance for all the lives lost in Teldrassil, but the root of it comes from wanting to protect her family and friends and loved ones. Second only to those feelings is her desire for freedom, and sees sailing and going rogue as an opportunity to kill three birds with one stone.

Immediate goals: Sink Horde ships.

Long term goals: Building a better world for her son and her friends’ children.

How the character plans to accomplish these goals: Gathering a crew of other disgruntled Alliance soldiers and hunting down as many Horde ships and soldiers as they can before they get caught and probably executed.

How other characters will be affected:  😬 Well Jeán was a pirate and gave up everything to live his life with Bowan, and to find she’s been doing basically piracy behind his back would be a big oof. Plus before it all she was a very proud soldier of the Alliance and strove to better herself and to be a good and kind person, so it would probably be very disturbing news to others. Then again, that’s only if they find out.

Past

Hometown: Keel Harbor, Gilneas. 

Type of childhood: Strict-ish. Father was a sailor, mother was a wealthy merchant’s adopted daughter. Her father tried to teach her freedom and passion, her mother tried to teach her obedience and to be ladylike. Mother ultimately won and she was more or less prepared for marriage into her teen years until she ran away to escape the pressure.

Pets: A hound dog named Jager.

First memory: Meeting her maternal grandmother for the first- and last time. She was a harvest witch and disappeared to escape witch hunts. 

Most important childhood memory: Sailing with her father outside the harbor for the first time. It was a dangerous trip and they nearly capsized, but she loved every second of it. 

Why: While Bowan and her mother Louise loved eachother, they weren’t as close as she and her father, Bayne. Her father always encouraged her to be herself and to blaze her own path, and her mother told her that she would never find a husband acting like that. Really experiencing sailing and the sea made her realize that that was quite all right, because if being a good wife meant giving up exciting things like sailing then the choice was obvious for her. 

Childhood hero: Genn Greymane

Dream job: Professional bard! She *almost* achieved that after running away from home in Gilneas but never could quite make it happen.

Education: Homeschooling and a few years of attending a little bitty schoolhouse in the countryside. 

Religion: The lowkey Light worship Gilneas practiced, and some of the Old Ways.

Finances: Not poor, but her father had to work very hard to support them and tried not to let it show. 

Present

Current location: Kul Tiras

Currently living with: No one she’s close to, a crew of other soldiers unhappy with the way the war with the Horde was handled.

Pets: Ardis, her beautiful black mare, is stabled in Stormwind.

Religion: Same as her childhood, a bit of Old Ways and a bit of Light.

Occupation: Unofficially ex-Alliance soldier and guard, pirate

Finances: Actually doing pretty well from herself considering all the ships she’s robbed! :D 

Family

Mother: Louise Ollington

Relationship with her: Strained, but they were family at the end of the day. She was born into a family of harvest witches who were culled by some backwoods witch hunts. She was dropped off in Gilneas city and adopted by wealthy bookkeeping nobles. The entire experience still left her very unhappy and traumatized, so she clung very tightly to her new life and tried to make sure her daughter would be safe and not face the same challenges as she did when she went against tradition. 

Father: Bayne Arrow

Relationship with him: Very close. A sailor from Tanaris, he tried to make as comfortable of a life for Louise but could never really live up to her expectations. They still loved each other very much, and he adored his daughter and tried to instill in her the same love of adventure and the sea as his family had. Ultimately his teachings won over, but it cost the family a lot.

Siblings: None.

Relationship with them: n/a

Spouse: Jeán deFlorentine.

Relationship with them: Jeán were best friends long before the relationship became romantic. They’re perfect for eachother, both cocky swaggering rogues who love duel banter and sailing and getting into trouble. They had all sorts of wild adventures and hit rock bottom and bounced back together, and they bonded hard and fast. They never really bothered with marriage before because they didn’t feel like their relationship needed it, but they got married on paper before Bowan left for the war in Kul Tiras just so they didn’t leave any regrets in case she didn’t come back.

Children: Rory, her son. 

Relationship with them: He’s a bastard, but she doesn’t like to talk about it or his father. She loves him more than anything and is doing her best to raise him to be a good person. He’s a very gentle and sweet boy.  

Other important family members: None.

Favorites

Color: Dark grey-teal, the color of the sea during a storm. 

Least favorite color: Pink, only because it’s just very much not her color. 

Music: Fiddle and hurdy-gurdy.

Food: Pandaren cuisine, especially dumplings and spring rolls.

Literature: Romance, and inspiring heroic adventure novels. 

Form of entertainment: Music! She loves to sing and play her own instruments or listen to others perform. 

Mode of transportation: Her ship, a former Stormwind sloop with black sails. 

Most prized possession: Her Cavalier rapier, a gift from Jeán when the unit was founded. 

Habits

Hobbies: She used to practice minor medicinal alchemy when she was young. She likes to read and write for fun too, and riding her horse on the trails around Stormwind city when she still lived there.

Plays a musical instrument?: Yes! Mandolin and guitar. She’s a little rusty but she’s talented. 

Plays a sport?: Fencing! 

How they would spend a rainy day: Brewing tea and reading by the fireplace, either alone or to her son. OR sailing.

Smokes: Yes, occasionally.

Drinks: Too much these days, before also occasionally. 

Other drugs: None

What do they do too much of?: OVERTHINK

What do they do too little of?: Taking a goddamn breath and thinking things through before jumping into dangerous situations.

Extremely skilled at: Sailing. 

Extremely unskilled at: Cooking.

Nervous tics: Bouncing knee, cracking knuckles, drumming fingers 

Usual body posture: Confident but closed-off. 

Mannerisms: Lively even in poor moods, lots of expressive gestures and hand motions

Peculiarities: She seems fidgety and checks over her shoulder too much until she gets her back to a wall. She always goes for the wall seat and likes to face the door. 

Traits

Optimist or pessimist?: Tries to be an optimist but her natural state is pessimist. It’s just been beat out of her.

Introvert or extrovert?: Ambivert, she’s a social butterfly in good moods but gets moody fast and retreats to be alone often. 

Daredevil or cautious?: Some sort of unstable mix of both, anxious a lot and overthinks danger but then does stupid recklessly brave things like, for example, challenge old and terrifying pirate captains to duels she has ZERO hope of winnings (this has happened like three times now??)

Logical or emotional?: Emotional. She’s not controlled by her emotions but they are powerful. Listening to her heart and her gut keeps her alive.

Disorderly and messy or methodical and neat?: Surprisingly organized and neat. When she had her own desk at the Cavalier office it was fancy and extremely well-kept. 

Prefers working or relaxing?: Prefers working. She’s a bit of a workaholic, and doesn’t like to sit still for too long.

Confident or unsure of themself: Fairly confident these days.

Animal lover?: Yes, but not to the point to keep pets.

Self-perception

How they feel about themself: Her confidence isn’t low, but currently she’s felt helpless about her life and her path and is doing whatever she can to feel like she has some control. She knows some of the things she’s doing is wrong but feels like she has to make the hard calls for once and do the dirty work no one else is willing to do. 

One word the character would use to describe self: Ambitious.

What does the character consider their best personality trait?: Her dedication to her family. 

What does the character consider their worst personality trait?: Her inability to let go of the past. 

What does the character consider their best physical characteristic?: She loves her hair and takes pride in keeping it long and brushed and clean.

What does the character consider his/her worst physical characteristic?: Her broken nose that was never set right and healed crooked, and now her scarred eye. She thinks it’s ugly and will frighten children. 

How does the character think others perceive him/her: Hopefully, as someone they can trust and will be there for them when they need her, always.

What would the character most like to change about themself: Her paranoia and her anxiety. She’s been horribly wounded by the past and wants so badly to heal from it but she just can’t find the right way to do it yet. 

Relationships with others

Opinion of other people in general: Bowan has a low opinion of people as a whole, and views people in general as something to defend herself against, but believes in the good of individuals. 

Does the character hide their true opinions and emotions from others?: Sometimes. She’s the sort to hide her minor feelings from others to save their own feelings, and isn’t above lying to loved ones if she thinks it will protect them.

Person character most hates: Sylvanas Windrunner (now that Deathbreathe is dead). She wants her dead SO BAD.

Best friend(s): Timira Redsummer, Jeán deFlorentine, Watcher and Seeker, Reiko Al-Tariq.

Love interest(s): Jeán deFlorentine

Person character goes to for advice: Timira

Person character feels responsible for or takes care of: Watcher and Seeker, the Twins. They used to be in a spy unit together but they’re a lot younger than she is and just wants them to be safe. All of the Cavaliers, too, present and former.

Person character feels shy or awkward around: No one, she’s over those feelings.

Person character openly admires: Lorna Crowley

Person character secretly admires: Princess Tess Greymane (secret due to her work for the Uncrowned).

Most important person in character’s life before story starts: Her father

After story starts: Rory, her son

found here

(( Okay I know this is a monster so I won’t tag anyone but please feel free to fill this out, it’s so fun and makes you really think about the details!! ))

[fireintheforest]

Penance, part I

There was no time for him to say anything at all. Immediately after the fight happened, Lillandril dragged Saufinril up the stairs to the private apartment, dumped him in the chair and sat opposite the younger Altmer, one leg folded over the other and staring at Saufinril. Saufinril stared back. The sound of merriment from below was heard; apparently, the Den went back to its usual shows as if nothing had happened. All Lillandril said, with his air of cold anger that his face didn’t portray, was, “Explain.”

Saufinril pressed his lips for a couple seconds, having his own exploding, hot lashing out died drastically from the moment his arm had been grabbed to the moment he sat down here. He made a clicking sound on his mouth and asked, "...from the beginning?" Stupid question.

Lill narrowed his eyes slightly. When he spoke, his lips barely seemed to move. “From. The. Beginning.” Fine, he wanted to know all about the fight. Naturally. It was his bar, he’d scared clients away and others had gotten in the fight, not to mention how Samin and the other two girls could’ve gotten hurt, and it just, overall, was a fight in his Den. Of course he’d be mad.

"He started it." Saufinril blurted, only surprised in the back of his mind to feel the irritation was rising again, "One was doing one's job here and he couldn't shut his gob up towards one, was one supposed to let him badmouth one in front of everyone, as if one were some-some-some goblin servant or a dog? He'd been pushing it enough! One couldn't stand to hear him say how one is useless when all one was doing was one's job!"

Lillandril suppressed a frown at the word “gob”, but otherwise didn’t react. He paused a moment after Saufinril finished. “And?”

"And?" Saufinril leaned forward, then leaned back. Did he hear right, ‘and?’, as if it were some trivial matter being called knife-ears or insulted in front of people? Was Lillandril serious? "No. No! One doesn't-he'd been at it since bef-alright, before tonight one ran into him, accidentally on the way to the market and there he started to throw slurs back at one, but nothing happened. S-why does he get a pass at being an asshole and one has to bite one's tongue? If he's going to be throwing threats, at least he has to be able to back them up!" ‘And?’. Really?? The old mer was going to come with that? Yes, it was his damn bar but ‘and?’??

Lillandril allowed another long moment to pass without moving. A peal of laughter was distantly heard from below. “At least. Quite. And?”

There it was again. By the Divines, he knew he was furious about this but to go this route? That was low. That was low and-was he even listening? He was right! As far as he knew, he was right. He was right to have beaten this guy and despite the bruises and busted knuckles, he would do it all again. What ‘and?’ was he even asking about, ‘and?’ as in what? As in ‘and? I don’t care, you’re ruining my business’ or in-

Wait, was it an ‘and?’ as in ‘is there anything else to say?’? All the rising anger in Saufinril died at once. He knows. Of course he knows, why wouldn’t he? It always seemed to him that both he and Rialas had eyes and ears everywhere where their own didn’t reach, otherwise it was impossible that they knew so much. The events of the morning came to him; the tall Thalmor, the hand with magic-anulling spell on his own, the cold frown on both of their faces and how he narrowly left…he had to spare him this. It’s not like he’d been taken anyways. He cleared his throat and said, "And...that's it." he licked his lips and looked at his right hand briefly. Knowing Lillandril, there was a reason behind these questions, as mad about the fight and the Den as he was. His leg bobbed up and down for a couple of times before he stopped it. Wellp, time to do damage control. "One...fine, one didn't want to absolutely fight everyone or make a mess. One just-had to make him stop. One is-one was done."

Lillandril made a small noise in the back of his throat, an uncommitted grunt. He continued staring at Saufinril in the same position, held still. “And there is nothing else you can think of that you should be telling from? From earlier in the evening, perhaps?”

Saufinril held his gaze steadily, until he lowered his eyes. Change of plan, lying to Lillandril would only make this worse, "At the market one was going to fight him because he threw a rock at one but he had two bodyguards, which is no problem usually but it...the fight got stopped by two Thalmor. One was given a warning, and that's it. Nothing else happened." he clentched his jaw. Fuck. Fuck. Today was not his day, that’s all. At least he hoped that the last part would ease the tension in the room.

It didn’t. Lillandril’s face shifted ever so slightly as he grit his teeth. “That’s. It?” He narrowed his eyes slightly, his voice becoming more clipped. “You drew the attention of the Thalmor, and then caused a ruckus in one’s establishment, and that. Is. It?”

“Oh wow. I’m fucked. I’m really fucked.” Saufinril's leg bobbed again, though the rest of his face’s demeanor stayed the same as he looked at Lillandril. "It was..." He was about to say “It was all that guy’s fault!” but blaming someone else right now was not just a bad strategy, it was plain immature, especially when he was the one that smashed his face on a glass. Truly, the guy had instigated it and he fell for it. He fell for it completely. He reconsidered what he was going to say, "Forgive one, serah. One didn't control oneself in either scenario."

“No.” For one second Saufinril thought his face had gone cold, assuming that Lillandril hadn’t accepted the apology. Lillandril leans forward ever so slightly. “You did not. Not even remotely. You acted like a fool, like a rash and irresponsible, immature, child. You acted no differently to that boy who broke into one’s shop years ago. You brought shame and dishonour into this place. Onto one. You ...” Lillandril stopped and paused, visibly collecting his thoughts. He shifted slightly, swapping his legs over. “Do you know what the Thalmor are capable of? Do you have even the basest, most minute inclination?”

Saufinril was half expecting more to come out of his mouth, but instead lowered his gaze, sitting perfectly still through Lillandril's words. A wave of heat was raised to his face as he said in a low volume, "One...one does, yes." He raised his hand to rub the back of his neck. He’d just come back from the Isles, of course he knew. He had to share a house with one after all. Even if you never saw them do anything concrete, their air of military stoicism and their coldness seeped outwards, almost announcing their cruelty that they were so proud of.

Lillandril narrowed his eyes again. “Do you? Truly? It seems to one you do not, or you would have conducted yourself in a manner other than as a common thug.” He shifted again to lean in closer, unfolding his legs. “But maybe one is wrong. Perhaps you know all about the inquisitions. About the demands of purity. About the seizures. The disappearances. The purges.”

Saufinril felt a knot on his stomach. 

“Perhaps” Lillandril continued, “you know all about how they harnessed national pride into a weapon. About how even the slightest reason can be taken as reason for suspicion. About how none but the most stringent loyalists may now leave the Isles. You know, surely, that the Artists are now controlled, what they can make dictated to them. You know, of course, that Merchants who have ever even put into a foreign port have had their ships seized. You know, naturally, that mainlander Mer have to prove unbreakable blood ties to a Thalmor family, or be unable to return at all.”

All true, of course. His papers were the reason why he was even allowed to set foot on port a month ago, as much as he hated to admit it. Life in the Isles was insanely different from when he grew up. And insanely scarier.

“You know, of course, that they have seized control of our most ancient institutions. That the military is now entirely theirs. The College, the Labyrinth, the gryphon riders, all now are barred to all but the Thalmor themselves.”

"One does. Well, not-not..." Saufinril exhaled, unconsciously rubbing his hands. What does any of this have to do with his fight? Why couldn’t Lillandril just say ‘don’t be an idiot’ and that’s it? Why was he even thinking about them? The big issue here was the fight in the Den, wasn’t it? Still, being reminded of what the Thalmor were was enough reason to settle unease in Saufinril. He hadn’t considered that the fight in the market could’ve gotten their attention in anything more than two morons arguing in public, "One didn't mean to get their attention, one didn't mean to let them see one's face or-or get on their wrong side. It was just a stupid fight, one just-..." he cleared his throat again and closed his eyes for a second, "One wasn't thinking of any of that. One didn't think at all, one's sorry."

“You didn’t think.” Lillandril paused again, unblinking. “How shocking. You didn’t think. Not about what they could do to you. About what it means to get their attention. About what you did by attracting their attention, and then causing commotion here, under one’s roof. About drawing their attention here. Do you care to think now, perhaps, what that means? About what you have done to one? To one’s family?”

Saufinril clentched his jaw, looking away. No, he hadn’t. And now it made sense. Great, Saufinril. He felt the anger rise back, but this time directed at himself, how could he have not seen this? How did he not consider what it meant to catch the Thalmor’s eye? He was so much more focused on smashing that freckled face…the tone came out more snappy than intended when he said, "It's not like they'll listen to-" he bit the inside of his cheek and took a deep breath (because, again, saying “it’s not like they’ll listen to an Imperial” seemed like waving away the seriousness of the situation. A situation HE created), "One-" he let out a huff, as if frustrated by the lack of what to say, "One did not mean to disrespect you, serah. You or Rialas or the Den or to bring shame to it, but when he started to sound like-" he cleared his throat. Nope, no reason why he was worth being mentioned, "It's-" another huff. And Graywatch suddenly appeared in his mind, complete with his cruel gold eyes and the smile. The smile was the worst part.

“I travel a lot more now, Finn. There’s no reason why I can’t go thank whoever looked after you personally, preferrably honor this...mysterious mer in the Embassy, officially, with the other Thalmor. And if you were going to ‘end locked’ anywhere, it would be somewhere else. Somewhere pretty. Smaller, even , so it’s cozy. You’d be in a much better place.” He said those three last words as he gently stroke the urn with one finger.

He wouldn’t stop there. Not with his gaze back in the dinner."...is there a chance they'd arrest us all because of one?" he asked, much more softly, the warmth that had covered his face red now leaving and being replaced with coldness that lightened his skin tone.

Lillandril waited a moment, and in the quiet, another peal of laughter was heard from downstairs. Eventually, the older Altmer let out a sigh and leaned back in his seat, raising a hand to his brow. “No. It is unlikely. Compared to their aims, a bar brawl is beneath their interest. It is more ...” He sighed again before resuming, “Consider what you know about one, Saufinril. Consider what that makes one to the Thalmor. The last thing one needs is another reason for them to look at one. One is already a blood traitor, an aberration who has married a lesser species, who has  called Men - of all things! - family. If one could not trace an unbroken line back through the ages, one rather suspects ...” He trailed off, shifting his gaze to a point in the distance, “One’s family lacks the influence they once had, perhaps. After Kalaron, and Grandmother’s withdrawing ... Calina salvaged it, of course. But now .... with the Thalmor in power? Our blood may be old, true, and we were far from the only family to embrace Imperial rule and the wealth it brought, but even so ....”

Lillandril took a breath before looking back at Saufinril. “The Thalmor are dangerous, Saufinril. You do not want their attention. And one cannot allow their attention to linger on one, not for oneself, not for this place and the people within, and not for one’s family.”

Saufinril could only stay in silence, listening to Lillandril's words. He swallowed hard and nodded. He'd rested his forearms on his legs as he listened, leaning forward. His brow was furrowed in worry and the leg had finally stopped its bobbing rhythm. This was bad. This was so bad. And this was all his fault. He should’ve dropped his stupid ego and just continued his way to meet Amara. At least then the Imperial pig would’ve made a fool of himself and he would’ve attracted the Thalmor’s attention. He could’ve redirected the order to Lienil, who could’ve easily kicked the man out if he got too rowdy. But NO. He had to insert his face on glass. And now for his imprudence, he’d just plastered a huge target on the Den and everyone in it. Right for the Thalmor to see.

Lillandril watched Saufinril for a moment. A smile played on his lips. “You do realize that one includes you in that category, yes? As much as one may seem ... harsh, and yes, one is less than best pleased at present, one has enough faith that you can understand the reasons why. You have your own reasons to avoid drawing the Thalmor’s attention, after all.”

That was more than unexpected, and Saufinril blinked quickly and nodded again."One-one understands." he says hoarsely, in a low volume, "And one does. Serah...one is so sorry. One is so sorry, this was not what one wanted. One just jumped into a fight and one didn't-one doesn't know what else to say. This is all one's mess, one didn't want to drag you or anyone else into it."

Lillandril tilted his head to one side. “You are young. You don’t think things through. And sometimes, events happen. It is up to us to consider how best to respond to those events, and how to best protect those we care for.” He stood up, walking towards Sau a few steps and opening his arms in invitation. “Your apology is accepted. Your mess is, after all, one’s mess. And curse the Divine who made it so.”

His mess? Since when? As far as Saufinril knew, Lillandril had never been part of the mess. He was part of the solution. Saufinril was the problem. Saufinril stood up and shook his head, "It's not your mess." he whispered, because he didn’t know how to say everything, then sheepishly walked to Lillandril, hoping the bobbing of his Adam's apple went unnoticed. He put his arms around Lillandril, resting his chin on Lillandril's shoulder and hugged tight. Lillandril put his arms around Saufinril and gave him a gentle squeeze.

“It is all of our mess, boy. The Thalmor hold our people hostage. It is up to those of us who can see it to respond as best we can. Now.” Lillandril paused a moment, running fingers gently over the back of Sau’s head before placing his hands on the younger Altmer’s shoulders to break the hug. “One said your apology was accepted, not that the foolishness was forgotten. One rather thinks some unpleasantly menial or otherwise undesirable tasks may help teach you a cooler head. We need another pot washer, if memory serves - one’s flame retardant stick insect frightened the last one off with some of his knife tricks. One thinks you can start there, hm, while one considers where else your youthful energies might be better applied.”

This was a very tender moment. But the second Lillandril spoke the words 'pot washer', Saufinril sighed, closed his eyes and tilted his head back, a face that indicated that this task wasn't one he was looking forward but he wasn't going to complain or not do it (this was his divine punishment, if it even existed, not just for the fight and this Thalmor business but also for laughing along when the trick happened). He instead nodded and reopened his eyes, accepting his fate. "Yep. Yes serah. One can start tonight."

[tentoriwrites]

Ranmaru’s Adventure in Babysitting

What happens when Tentori binges movies from her childhood? A weird combo of Adventures in Babysitting and Stand by Me featuring Yahiko, Hotaru, and Ranmaru! If someone has commissions open, I totally need a picture of these three acting like 1960s greasers with weapons kids would have. Like Yahiko dual wielding brooms, Ranmaru with a slingshot... I need this in my life. 

When Nobunaga orders Ranmaru to entertain Yahiko while everyone else is out, the duo embarks in shenanigans. Along the way they pick up an unlikely comrade.

He was from a samurai family and that had served him quite well in life up to this point. Being from a samurai family had secured him a place in Kiyosu under the Oda family, after all. Granted, that had been more a display of his family’s fealty than anything. Still, it had afforded him the opportunity to learn a great many things. Despite being considerably younger than many of the samurai around him, he had come to excel at handling difficult daimyo and repugnant retainers. None more so than his liege lord, one Oda Nobunaga.

None of it had prepared him for the task he had just been given.

Back straight as the face of a sword, struck frozen like a body caught in a harsh northern winter he stared down the being before him. The longer they sat staring at each other in silence, the more his sheer ineptitude for the task ate away at him. Luckily, the one across the table spoke first.

“what’s your name, kid?” Ranmaru looked at him completely dumfounded for a moment.

“Kid?” His head tilted to one side all on its own.

“Yeah. You aren’t that much older than me, are you?” There was no malice in the question putting Ranmaru a bit more at ease.

“No, I suppose I am not…” He straightened his head again and put on a serious face. “My name is Mori Ranmaru. You are Yahiko I presume?”

“Geez lighten up!” Yahiko reached across the table and gave Ranmaru a playful smack on the arm. “You know what you need? You need a festival and there just so happens to be one in town!” Ranmaru knew where this was going and immediately started to frown.

“No. I am quite sure it would be best if we stayed right here. Milord Nobunaga made it clear I was to entertain you and I think that would be best served right here.” He rubbed the top of the table emphasize his point.

“There is nothing entertaining to do right here.” Yahiko, undeterred, tapped the table with one finger to emphasize his.

“I brought a shogi and go sets. Perhaps I could teach you how to play one of them? Milord Nobunaga is fond of them.” He tried to lure Yahiko in with something of interest to the man Yahiko clearly idolized.

“Something Nobu likes to play?” Ranmaru smiled pleasantly to hid the instinctive twitch years of service had ingrained in him. In light of Yahiko’s pique interest he started mentally preparing his lesson. “Sure maybe a quick game wouldn’t be bad.

“Oh these are hardly quick games to play. I believe even a beginner like you could easily last a few hours…”

“A few hours for a beginner game?! How long would a game between experts last?!” Yahiko cut him off with a surprised outburst that threw him off.

“Well last time lord Nobunaga played lord Ieyasu it lasted all day. We had to have an intermission for lunch.” Yahiko gaped at him like he had grown an extra head before his young eyes.

“PASS! I’m way too young to waste hours on a single game!” With that he slapped his hands on the table and leaned in closer to Ranmaru, scrutinizing him.

“Y… yes? Is there perhaps something on my face?” He gently touched his hands to his cheeks.

“You can’t possibly tell me you have one night away from being samurai and you want to wallow it away in here playing a single game all night when we could be out there playing a bunch of games and eating until we’re sick.” Ranmaru had to admit, Yahiko was quite the imposing figure when he wanted to be. Ranmaru supposed it must run in the family, afterall, his sister married lord Nobunaga. After a great deal more cajoling and a little bit of begging, Ranmaru finally caved in.

"Very well. We’ll go to the festival. But only for a little while! Milord Nobunaga entrusted me with your safety!" Ranmaru put on the sternest face he could muster in an attempt to assert his dominance over the situation. Yahiko for his part failed miserably to stifle a laugh.

"Is everyone in castles this stuffy?" He jumped to his feet and checked he had some coins on him.

"Well I would not call it stuffy exact... wah!" Before Ranmaru could finish, Yahiko was taking him out the door.

Yahiko led him through the streets of Kyoto with the ease of a local all while the samurai tried to make mental note of their course. In short order they had reached a street adjacent to the festivities. However, Yahiko seemed to stop for no reason.

"Is something the matter?"

"It is him!" Yahiko ran up to a man with a head full of oddly silver hair. "Hey Master Yugiri! I didn't think I'd ever see you at a festival!" When he didn't receive a response, Yahiko gave him a tap on the shoulder. However, his whole body stiffened and he took a quick step back when the man turned around. This immediately put Ranmaru on edge.

"Sorry! You look like the owner of this restaurant I know." Yahiko quickly explained but the young man had a confused look on his face. He took out some writing materials and scribbled something down.

"Someone who looks like me at a restaurant?" The paper read.

"Yeah. Are you related?" Yahiko perked up after seeing this. Ranmaru was still very much on edge.

"Older brother." Again, written on the paper.

"Well that explains the resemblance! Did you come here together?" The young man shook his head no again.

"Were you looking for him?"

"Yes. But I got lost." Still on the paper.

"I can take you to his restaurant. But since you're here you might as well enjoy the festival!" Yahiko proceeded to hook an arm through Hotaru's and start to wander off.

"That is a terrible idea! You don't even know this person! You don't even know his name!" Ranmaru vehemently objected as he chased after them. "Do you not think it strange he writes everything?"

"Rude!" Yahiko sniped back. "But I guess I was being rude too! My name's Yahiko and this is Ranmaru."

"Don't give him our real names..." Ranmaru hiss in his ear but Yahiko just sailed on like a leaf on the wind.

"What's your name?" The young man pointed to a flower with a firefly blinking idly on it.

"Hana? Well ok then! Nice to meet you." The young man shook his head no.

"Not Hana. Oh! Hotaru! Got it! Sorry!" Yahiko flashed Hotaru an apologetic grin. Meanwhile, Ranmaru trailed behind them fretting the whole time.

Yahiko led them over to all the games. Something about the way his eyes lit up made Ranmaru smile. Although, it pained him a little that he didn't know how to play most of the games there. Certainly, he had been to a festival or two, but typically as a page, rarely for fun. At least he wasn’t alone in this. Hotaru didn’t seem to know how to play any of the games.

“Wow you’re both really bad at this!” Yahiko teased as he watched Ranmaru fail to get the black goldfish he’d been eying for the third time before his paper gave out. He sighed in defeat and slumped back on his haunches.

“He would make a stunning addition to the koi pond at Azuchi given proper time to grow.” Ranmaru sighed wistfully. Hotaru, who had simply been watching up to this point, in one smooth motion snapped up the fish. Ranmaru pouted, cheeks puffing slightly as he looked away.

“Wow that’s amazing Hotaru! You’re really good at this!” Hotaru tilted his head quizzically before sticking it directly in front of Ranmaru’s. It was far too close for the samurai’s comfort. He was about to back away when Hotaru offered him the vessel with the fish in it.

“For Ranmaru!” He positively beamed as he held the vessel with both hands.

“For… me?” The gesture threw him off his suspicions for just a moment. He coughed a stood up straight. “I appreciate the gesture, though I cannot accept your gift.” With that he turned on his heel. “If we are to play more than one game, we should be on our way.” He couldn’t see how dejected Hotaru looked as he turned and put the goldfish back in the barrel.

The next game they played was an archery game. Still pouting for being shown up by someone he was so sure was his mortal enemy, Ranmaru watched Yahiko struggle. Hotaru appeared to be ready to step in and win something for Yahiko when Ranmaru interjected didactically.

“Give a man a fish, he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish he eats for a lifetime.” With that, Ranmaru instructed Yahiko how to correctly hold the bow and how to shoot it. Despite that, He didn’t to be able to hit the toy he wanted hard enough. “Peculiar…” Ranmaru had a hunch about that. While the merchant was busy, he wander around to the back of the stall and saw that all the objects were affixed to the platform they sat on. Seeing the game was rigged, he wandered over to another stall with a much higher win rate. Finding the same sort of trinket Yahiko was after. Ranmaru, just as obstinate to prove a point as his lord wandered back over to Yahiko.

“Clearly there is an issue here. Mayhaps it is the bow?”

“I’ll assure you, the bows are fine.” The stall’s proprietor went on boastfully.

“As the page of the esteemed Lord Oda Nobunaga, I am quite aware of a good bow when I see one.” Ranmaru casually name dropped as he gave the proprietor a sideways glance. He sized up his target across the road.

“Oda… Nobunaga… you say?” The proprietor seemed shaken at mention of the name, but just for a moment. “Surely you jest.”

“Hotaru, Yahiko kindly clear the road.” The sharp gaze in Ranmaru’s eyes sent them scampering to clear a path between the two stalls. “We shall test the bow and arrows in one stroke. If that is not the issue, surely the fault must lie in the targets, would you not agree?” Ranmaru’s smile was thoroughly unsettling given the sharpness of his tone.

“You… you’ll find no fault in my game!” Ranmaru loosed his arrow and sent the trinket in the far stall toppling over. Without missing a beat he turned and aimed for the trinket Yahiko had been after and hit it point blank square center and it didn’t so much as wobble. “It’s is hardly a game of skill if the game is rigger, would you not agree?”

“Wow! That was really cool!” Yahiko ran up and practically threw him into the dirt when he wrapped an arm around the samurai’s neck.

“That was nothing compared to what I must do as part of my regular training. Surely, if I cannot debunk a scheme so obvious as his, I am not fit to serve milord.” Yahiko groaned before giving Ranmaru a nuggie so hard his hair came undone.

“Just accept the fact you’re cool on your own, would ya?”

“Me? Cool?” Ranmaru let to word roll around in his mouth like a draught of cool water on a hot day. “You really think so?”

“Yeah! You and Hotaru are both really cool!”

“Me too?” Hotaru tilted his head to the side.

“Whoa! Hotaru talks!” Yahiko started laughing.

“I like being like Ranmaru!” Hotaru beamed a thrilled smile. For the first time all night, Ranmaru seemed to be softening up. From then on, they made merry with much more abandon. Though Ranmaru not being able to keep his hair out of his face did cause trouble for him eating.

The evening was getting on to night when Ranmaru froze solid in the middle of the crowded street.

“Is that Nobu, my Mom and sister?”

“Yes.” A mouse’s squeak at best.

"Oh crap! If he sees us, you’re dead! Run!" Yahiko grabbed them both by a sleeve and started pulling them out of the crowd and into a less crowded alley. Although he was able to keep hold of Hotaru, Ranmaru got lost somewhere along the way. Agreeing to leave no man behind, the duo went looking for Ranmaru.

A scuffle in an adjacent alley drew them to it. There, surrounded by a group of drunks was Ranmaru.

“I assure you I am most definitely NOT a woman.”

“Awe come on… with locks like that…” He had disabled a few but there were clearly more than he could handle. Yahiko  set his jaw, grabbed a broom and starts beating the nearest guy to him. That was not a wise decision. The man spun around and shoved Yahiko away as easily as one would bat a fly. Hotaru looked between his two new comrades clearly torn on what he should do. As one of the thugs reared up his foot to kick Yahiko while he was down, a booming voice resonated of the nearby walls.

“Sleep!” Everyone in the alley but Hotaru fell asleep immediately. When Ranmaru and Yahiko woke up, they were back at the outskirts of the festival.

"What happened?"

"Ran away."

"They did or you did?"

"I did."

"No shame in retreating from a battle you can't win!" Ranmaru nodded sagely. “Thank you for coming to get me.”

“Of course! You wouldn’t have gotten in troubleif I hadn’t made you bring me to the festival.” Yahiko was genuinely apologetic.

“Yes… But then we would not have met our new friend Hotaru.” Hotaru perked up at this comment.

“Are we… friends?” He looked hopefully between the other two.

“Of course!”

“I believe that goes without saying.”

"We should get out of here before we get in any more trouble." Yahiko stretched as he got to his feet.

"Agreed." Yahiko took Hotaru to Yugiri and took the blame for him being late. Master Yugiri didn’t seem to upset about it. Before they left Hotaru stopped Ranmaru and handed him a bowl with a lid. When Ranmaru lifted the lid, his little favored fish was swimming happily inside.

“When did you…” He took a deep breath to banish his suspicions. “I will treasure this gift. Thank you.” As Ranmaru offered a deep bow, Master Yugiri ushered Hotaru inside.

When Nobunaga and company get back to the restaurant they found Ranmaru and Yahiko passed out over a barely started game of "go." This was not enough to banish lord Oda’s suspicions though. The next morning he grilled Ranmaru about what they did all as soon as his page showed his face. Ranmaru was about to crack when Yahiko butt in.

"He's not nearly as good at some things as you are, Nobu. But he's a great teacher! He was teaching me his to play "go!" Let me show you what I learned!"

"A challenge is it? I won't go easy on you just because you're a novice."

"You might be surprised how good I am!" The pair headed upstairs going back  forth. As soon as they were gone Ranmaru deflated with a sigh. The woman, who insisted everyone call he Mother, sidled up next to him with a broad smile and a steaming hot breakfast.

"Yahiko conned you into going up the festival, didn't he?"

"Please don't tell milord Nobunaga!" Mother gave him a knowing wink and walked away.

 Back at the castle several weeks have gone by and Ranmaru is acting increasingly maudlin. Nobunage, tried of his depressed sighs, called him out in the main hall at breakfast one day.

“Playing the older brother was a refreshing change is all. I may miss it just a tad, milord.”

"Want to play the older brother, is it?" With a mischievous smirk all of them knew too well, Nobunaga grabbed his new bride into his lap. "I suppose we’ll just have to try harder to see that happen, now won't we?"

“LORD NOBUNAGA!”

[dietaku]

Chapter 3: Video games are very competitive

I wasn't alone in staring at this striking woman as she stood poised before us, before Jake spoke up.

“Who?” he asked, as Unipopcorn snorted indignantly.

“Who? Am? I? You simpletons don't even know who? My? Personage IS?” she demanded, as we shook our heads as one, “Ugh! I tire of these narrow-minded slugbrains! Raymond, take care of these fools,” she called, as a large man in ivory plate armor stomped forward.

“Lady Uni, let me school these louts in your magnificence,” he called in a tinny voice, as Zechs snapped his fingers.

“Spasmodicon streamer, conventionally attractive blonde girl? Yeah, I think I remember you for your stream highlights on ReVid,” Zechs called, as Uni fumed.

“How dare you! Just because I'm a woman, you think I'm skating by on my looks? I'll have you know I take pride in my appearance, my mind and my body all in equal measure!” she growled, as Raymond stomped forward.

“Peace, Lady Uni. I, Raymond, Grandmaster of the Knights of Alb, will smash these fools so you don't sully your hands,” he roared, raising a large axe as I stepped back instinctively. Jake, on the other hand, rushed forward, smashing into Raymond as the two struggled, axe to shield.

“Jake, catch!” Zechs called, tossing the hammer from the Hollyhock Hoochie-Koo to Jake, as he caught it deftly.

“Uh, thanks, but what is this?” Jake asked.

“That's a hammer, Jake. It provides a powerful status ailment,” Potato called, as Jake nodded, pushing forward in his melee, as Unipopcorn growled, raising her blade into a battle stance.

“Whene'er the Sun does play

Or the Ghastly Night holds sway

I keep this holy oath upon my lips

All Evil I shall slay

Like stars in the sky in kinship

Hefting the great duty borne

I am forever your Unipopcorn,” she intoned, as a brilliant golden light enveloped her. The Knights of Alb all applauded as she zeroed her attention on Zechs, dashing forward with a sweeping sword lunge. Narrowly parrying the strike, Zechs stood backing up, as Unipopcorn rained blow upon blow on him with a barrage of oaths in turn.

“Seriously? Is not treating you like a queen worth killing me over?” Zechs cried, as Unipopcorn continued her assault unabated. Hefting her blade high, her furious golden glow rose in brightness, as her blade's edge gleamed.

“Shining Solar Ray,” she keened, slicing the air as a golden crescent of energy sliced the air, bisecting the field, cutting a swathe so far, several trees crash far beside the entrance to the Bouquet Garden on the opposite end of the plains. Narrowly avoiding the attack, Zechs gawked at the destruction, before leaping forward, delivering a thundering barrage of attacks of his own.

This back and forth continued, as the Knight of Alb and I watched the battle with interest, as one of their number, a figure wearing a beaked helmet with a tabard depicting a dove in flight hesitantly asked,” So...Do you want to fight, too?”

“No,” I yawned, pointing to the smoking corpse of the Midgard Zworma, “I already beat the chicken, so I'm good in terms of combat.”

“O-oh, I see,” they replied, as I turned to watch Jake and Raymond locked in battle.

“You're pretty good,” Jake huffed, as Raymond sneered.

“You're not entirely without martial virtue yourself,” Raymond replied, “However, there is one thing I know that you don't.”

“Oh? What's that?”

“I am a Proton Dozer! I am a finely tuned weapon of mass destruction for my lady! It matters not your build nor your equipment when I smash you in two blows!” Raymond roared, as Jake shrugged.

“I'm a Proton Bunker myself. I can tank even the mightiest hits, especially when my allies are near,” Jake countered. Neither allowed the other a clean hit, until Jake's flowery hammer struck Raymond's shoulder obliquely, as the White Knight staggered, trying desperately to regain his footing.

“Huh, now that I get a good look at it, that shield is quite a piece of work. Where'd you find such a weapon?” Jake asked, as Raymond looked at him with utter bewilderment. Swaying as if drunk, he was a shadow of the imposing figure he cut but moments ago. I shook my head in pity as I knew all too well what he experienced.

“Poor guy. Shoulda known that thing smacks you with the Hollyhock's venom spores,” I muttered.

“Zuuuuh, plmufmnabam,” he slurred, as Jake nodded.

“The Plains of Abenon? Thanks!” Jake grinned, as he turned to Potato, “PC, I'm going to need yo~our help. Will you help me at the Plains of Abenon?”

Potato perked up for a moment, as I arched a brow, before they returned to their usual demeanor, “Oh, of course, Jake. I will assist you.”

“Great!” Jake cried, grabbing Potato's hand and tearing off into the horizon, as Unipopcorn paused her battle.

“Raymond? RAYMOND!” Unipopcorn cried, cradling Raymond, as she glared at us, “How dare you assault my Grandmaster!”

“I'm sorry?” Zechs called, as Unipopcorn rose into the air, hefting her champion, as the Falcons and we looked on in surprise, the entire legion of the Knights of Alb flew off with their leader.

“I-I'm done. I'm just done,” the leader of the Falcons sighed, walking off with his fellows in tow as I waved.

“Bye! Don't let the door hit you on the way out!” I called, as a small Squerran boy, his hair and tail entirely a shocking blue color paused in his high-speed dash before cackling.

“Speed it up, sister! Whoever lives by the quip, dies by the quip!” He called mockingly, before resuming his earlier pace.

I blinked, “D-did I just get told off by a knockoff--”

“HOLY CRAP! WAS THAT ZEDYYK THE SMUGHOG!?”  Zechs asked excitedly, as he craned to get a better view.

“Oh. I guess it was,” I sighed, as Zechs excitedly looked around for another glimpse, “C'mon, let's go home.”

Returning to Potato's home, I filled in the others with Zechs and my exploits over the last three days, as Zechs added details.

“--So, then, we defeated Aharel's Butler, and saved a mermaid.--” I boasted, as Potato snorted.

“You actually started that quest line? I mean, I knew you were somewhat weird when you chose Floof Clan as your race, but to go for that quest? Wow,” Potato replied.

“Wait, what do you mean?” I demanded.

“That quest line is the one that gives you the Ishtar Theurge subclass and has you explore the Sunken Abyss. It's not pleasant or pretty, even if it's a good source of exp and skill levels,”  they explained, as I blanched.

“I...ergh, I see,” I mumbled, as Errin turned to us.

“So, what are we going to do now, then? We seem to be victorious for the time being,” she asked, as Jake steepled his fingers before his face.

“Now is the most critical of moments. We have made our first decisive act, and we succeeded, but now we need to continue your push forward. In this instance, we need to solidify our powerbase, and then with that, increase our capital in order to empower ourselves. The late-game of this game is incredibly straining on resources, and we need to begin stockpile resources now to even hope of succeeding.”

“Oh, well, that's fine. Let's just get all the wood, stone, steel, gems, and the like necessary,” Zechs brightened.

Jake shook his head, “That's not the type of resources I mean.”

“Then what do you want?” Zechs demanded.

Jake grinned, flashing some shining coins, “Platinum gems. That's the coin we need.”

Immediately, Zechs' enthusiasm dropped,” Why are we gonna need the premium currency?”

At this, Errin raised her hand,”What do you mean by that? Premium currency?”

Jake smirked,” Ah, right, you haven't been in gaming for that long. Well, imagine this;  What would happen in the real world if the ordinary currency was the penny? That you could buy groceries, goods and everything with pennies? However, the billionaires of the world, the movers, shakers, and candlestick makers, all with their solid gold suits and ties, all went around using dollar bills. On top of that, you'd need to go to the US bank in order to spend your pennies to get dollars because important things, like gas, certain medicines, and important things like houses, cars, and even the ability to get married, required investments in dollars? That's how premium currency works.”

“Not really,” Zechs corrected, “There's no place to turn in regular gold for platinum gems, at least in Slidelands, so your analogy kinda falls apart.”

“Actually,” Potato corrected, “There is a weekly merchant that arrives in the city of Denebite and will exchange gold for platinum gems. It's not the best exchange rate, something like 10k per gem, but it'll do in a pinch.”

Jake shook his head, “Hush, you two, you're going to confuse her. But, anyways, Errin, that's how things go. We need this premium currency to help us with the late-game content.”

“And what do we need with platinum gems, anyways, huh?You still didn't answer my question” Zechs demanded.

Jake's stare grew harder, “We'll need it to crack chronocysts. If we're in this for the long haul, then we'll need some anyways, but we need to relics the chronocysts carry.”

Zechs gaped, “B-b-b-but, those cause grown men to cry! The luck ratios on good to awful drops is absolutely abysmal! That's just an total crapshoot!”

Errin raised her hand again, and Jake sighed, “I'll explain it when we do our first chronocyst raid. In the mean time, we need to work to get the money. Potato crunched the numbers, and he thinks we need about 150K in platinum gems to get the re-rolls we'll need.”

“And how do you propose we raise this money? I don't know about you, but we don't have the goods nor the crafting skills to produce the goods we could potentially sell for such funds?” I asked.

Jake grinned, passing me an embossed paper, “This ought to explain it all.”

The paper turned out to be a menu of sorts, with various acts and services described in flowery language. It was when I read down to the highest priced services that its purpose dawned on me, “You're going to whore me out, aren't you?” I growled, as Jake looked away sheepishly.

““Whore” is such a strong, negative word. I'd like to think you will be providing counseling and  support for the sad, sorry nerds that populate this game. At worst you'll be ERPing with them...”

My heart sank as I recalled what THAT lovely community did. ERP, or Erotic Role-Play, was a sideline of pretty much every MMORPG. For every fan interested in grinding up their favorite character or exploring the immense worlds, there were horny teenagers, seeking to fulfill their base desires. These two groups weren't mutually exclusive, either, making it all the worse.

“Take Zechs for instance,” Jake continued, not looking me in the eyes.

“Okay?” I growled, as Zechs fumed.

“Notice how Zechs doesn't take his eyes off your....You. You. That's what I meant. Don't you know how much money we could make capitalizing on this?” Jake asked, “Platinum gems as far as the eye can see. If we spin this right, then we'll be set with minimal effort. Well, minimum effort for Potato and me, anyways,” Jake explained.

My frown widened further and further as Jake grinned, and Zechs chuckled nervously. Potato shrugged, and Errin shook her head.

“Do I even have a choice?” I sighed, as Errin tapped her chin.

“That depends. Do you think that Free Will exists? Or are you more inclined towards Predestination in your understanding of how reality works?” Errin pondered, as I snorted.

“That's how you respond? Philosophy?”  I growled, as Errin shrugged.

“It's ultimately up to you. I really can't say anything of help, as this is all new to me. Besides, you're younger than me, and you all tend to have very different views on love and relationships than I do.”

“So, would you do this, then, if it meant we'd get the funds we need?” I asked, as Errin giggled in spite of herself.

“No, no. I have a husband and two young sons. I can't very well compromise my morals for anything like monetary gain,”  Errin replied.

I pondered. No such compunctions clouded my decision-making. I had no family, and truth be told, I didn't think it was the worst thing one could do. However, to be coerced into it in such a way rubbed me the wrong way. Still, this was helping the others., right?I mean, Zechs was a giant flake, and Errin was insufferable, but we were all in this together, right?

“Fine,” I sighed, “I'll do this, to help you all. However, I want you to know that I''ll quit if this gets too weird.”

Jake grinned, “Well, that's good, because otherwise, we'd need to drug you or something. You already have an appointment in an hour's time.”

“WHAT?”

“You think we just put this plan into action now? No, I've been concocting this master stroke for a few days now, and drummed up quite a bit of business for this little venture. Now,” Jake pulled out a slinky black dress. Eying it, I wasn't sure if it would even cover my backside, considering how high the hem was. “Put this on. Oh, and these, too,” Jake commanded, producing a pair of elaborate slippers I wasn't sure were glass or a fine transparent stone. Either way, as I donned this unusual footwear, I resolved to walk very slowly. Once attired, I felt taller, somewhat more stately, and much more self-conscious.

“There, now you're ready. He'll be in the front room. Go get'im kiddo,” Jake called, giving me a thumbs up as I shot daggers at him with my glare.

“I'm older than you, you know,” I spat, as I stomped off as daintily as I could in my delicate shoes. Arriving at the front room with only three trips, I found a tall, gangly young man with pimples adorning his face and a shock of brown hair. He wore the generic armor along with quite impressive looking goggles, and I got the impression more and more as I looked at him that this player was even more of a novice than I.

“Um. H-hi. I'm Lancelysander,” he said, fidgeting, as I reciprocated his greeting, “I've never done this before, so I hope you're okay with me messing up a little.”

“You're....Fine,” I muttered, wondering in spite of myself what “Messing up” in this context could even mean,” Let's just take things nice and slow at first. What do you want to do?” His stares and fidgeting made it evident what he desired, and I continued, “Well, that aside, what brings you here to see me?”

“W-well, because girls in real life either laugh at me, or just ignore me. I want to be with them, but it's too hard. They all are more interested in other guys who play sports and have big cars. I don't do any of that, and I can't drive. My eyes are too bad,” Lancelysander said, as I nodded.

“Then, why not do things to make yourself better? Go out and have adventures in the real adventures? Make them see your worth? Make yourself better, and they'll see you're a man of integrity and virtue,” I offered, as he brightened, excitedly hugging me. It would've been a touching gesture if he hadn't decided to also cop a feel.

“Thanks! I really appreciate that you talked to me like this! You're really easy to talk to, Deegal! However,” he coughed, “I did pay a thousand platinum gems, so if you don't mind, I want to see some skin.”

“Oh, right,” I muttered, the hopes that he'd forget dashed. My cheeks flaring red, as I motioned for him to follow me. Once inside, I turned to him, my cheeks glowing as I coughed, straightening up, and arching my back in what I imagined was a very sensual pose.

“Sooooo, I motion to Lancelysander, saucily enticing him,” I called, beckoning him with a sultry waggle of my finger, as he looked at me coolly.

“What are you even doing?” Lancelysander asked, as I stared at him in kind. Thinking on the mechanics of the game engine and the world I now dwelt, I realized my error. Pantomiming the act would indeed look bizarre when seen outside of the lens of the game.

“I thought that's how's it done,” I mumbled, as I inwardly sighed. I turned away, hiking up my skirt, as I eyed him coyly.

“Do with me as you will,” I said flatly, as he nodded. What happened between us wasn't romantic or beautiful, or even that fun, as I tried not to think about the heavy breathing behind me. He gasped. I shuddered in terror, trying not to dwell on it, all while horrifying thoughts crept through my mind. “S-should I be worried? I mean, my race and his, we came from the same source, right?  W-will something happen?” I bit my lip in fear. While creating my character, Zechs gave me a quick rundown of the Floof Clan.

“Your race are demihuman beastmen, born from a god and human women. You're the closest beastman race to humans, but also the most alien in their culture,” He explained. I didn't think much of it at the time, but now worry filled my very soul. Ignorant of my duress, Lancelysander rummaged in his money pouch and handed me a dozen more platinum gems as I rose, straightening my skirt back over myself. Well, as best as the garment could, anyways.

“Here's some gems for cab fare. Thanks for the talk. You're really pretty, Miss Deegal. I may come back and talk more with you,” he called, and left with a wave, as I looked at the money and then at his back as he stepped out of the guild house.

“B-but this is MY home,” I called, to no one in particular. Left alone with my own fear and guilt, I stepped out of the guild house, and wandered the streets. Without a destination in mind, I put one foot in front of another, hoping to drown out my worry with thoughts of life passing around me.

“I never thought about it when I agreed, but...I may have seriously messed up. So cavalier with sex. You dumb idiot,” I grumbled, masking my worry. What if I really was pregnant now? Recalling what Zechs told me about the Floof Clan and their demigod origins did little to assuage my regret, forcing me to walk ever faster.  As I walked along, biting my thumb, I heard a bemused chuckle and turned to see Pai Zuri with her hands on her hips and a grin on her lips. In my funk, I walked right to The Rice Paddy without even meaning to.

“Oh? What's got your little brow so furrowed, dear baby bird? Are you deciding to be a philosopher? That's a poor decision dressed like that. In a gown like that, you need a smile and a skip to your step. You get much more attention if you show off your sweet side,” she explained, as tears welled in my eyes.

“Mistress Pai, I-I....” I mumbled. I explained my worry, as she nodded, before giggling.

“My dear baby bird, don't worry your little head about it. Although our progenitors were born of a union between gods and human women, such is not the case anymore. The divine spark flowing through our veins shields us from such casual unions, and unless you settle for a Floof Clan man or utilize magicks, then you need not worry about such things. Honestly, you act like you're a human, or one of those...Loppo wenches, with how you're worried. Did your mother not teach you these things?” she asked, stifling her giggling, as I shook my head, “I see. Well, then, pardon my flippancy. Still, I suppose this is cause for celebration! It's not every day you have your first time! Come, tonight, the drinks are on me!”

Motioning for me to follow, I reluctantly tailed her as she piped up, “Attention everyone, our dear baby bird just experienced her first time! Let's all wish her good luck now that she joins the Clan as a full-fledged adult!” she announced proudly, as the waitresses all cheered, rushing into the back, returning with large bottles of sake, platters of fried tofu, and endless bowls of udon,  With the revelry, I cracked a smile, and lost myself in the merriment. The next few hours flew by; a whirl of drinking dancing, and bad singing, until I awoke the next day in an unfamiliar bed. Jumping to my feet, I spun around, getting my bearings, as my hands hardened into fists, ready to smash anyone at a moment's notice. Spinning about, I found Dennis as she squeaked with fright.

“P-please don't hit me! I brought you back to my home last night! You were really drunk and I wanted to ensure you got some sleep in a safe place!” I glared at her, as she continued, “I promise, I didn't do anything to you! I just changed you as you kind of threw up all over yourself. I mean, unless you didn't want me to do all that,” she said, as I lowered my fist. I stomped away, as she waved, “Thank you, though. You made me very happy.”

I spun around, eyes blazing as she shrieked in fright, “WHAT DO YOU MEAN?” I growled.

“Last night. You thanked me. No one's ever done that before,” Dennis whispered as I eyed her.

“Well, I...Huh. Thank you, then. I'll be seeing you,” I said, shaking her hand as she nodded enthusiastically, waving as I scowled, resolving to unleash my ire upon Jake. As I strode purposefully towards the guild house, I realized to my horror that among my subclasses was the new addition of...

“Streetwalker? Really? What sort of sick joke is this?” I growled, as I stepped into the guild house. “Jake! Get your blasted little butt out here! You and I need to talk!”  I roared. No one answered. Walking through the entire building, I found nary another soul, and inwardly, I sighed with relief. I didn't want to show off my hurt to those fools, anyways. This way, no one would be the wiser. And if Jake asked me to do that again? Well, I'll let him get out there and work for his supper. Donning my gi and usual shoes, I stomped out, resolving to punch at least three people, and in so doing, nearly ran right into Unipopcorn. Arrayed with her knights behind her, she snorted as I jumped back away from her.

“Watch! Your! Step, you! Where is that insufferable Photon Breaker you were with earlier? I have need to speak with him,” she demanded bluntly, as I arched a brow.

“I don't know. I just got back, and I'm kind of in a hurry myself. What do you want, anyways?”

“I need assistance with a raid boss nearby. I thought perhaps your plucky friend may be of some use. However...” she looked me up and down with serious intent, before speaking up once more, “You look capable, and you also defeated the Midgard Zworma. You may be able to assist us. Would you be willing to join us?”

I pondered it for a minute. Jake would probably hate it if I went off and adventured with another group. “Okay, then, Uni. Can I call you Uni? Where are we going, anyways?”

She grimaced, before mumbling, “That is acceptable.  We are questing to the Pyramid of Ayin; the Obsidian Tomb. You best prepare for a serious fight, then.”

“Gotcha,” I said, rushing back inside. Grabbing as many potions as I could stuff into my pack as I could from the commons box, and ran back outside. Unipopcorn nodded, and we set out into the foothills not seen in Zechs and my grinding to defeat the Midgard Zworma.

“So, what's in this tomb, anyways?” I asked, as we slowly crossed the rocky hills.

Unipopcorn arched a brow at my question, “Are you familiar with the history of this world?”

“Um, not really,” I admitted,” I mean, there were gods defeated by space demons, right?”

Unipopcorn nodded,” That was indeed the case. The gods, drunk on power after they persecuted the Human nation, were blindsided by a gang of demons. These demons, the Planetes, possessed powerful magic and strange secret arts, destroyed the gods and began their rule over the Heavens. One of the first casualties of this war between the gods and these interlopers, was Ayin, the war goddess. She was a hellion, destroying three of their number before she was herself killed.  Because of how early it was in the conflict, she was given a stately burial and a palatial tomb. It is this tomb we will be visiting.”

“Oh! But, why are we going there?” I asked, as Unipopcorn gritted her teeth.

“Because to fight back against the Planetes, we must gain the wisdom and secrets of the last ones to battle them. Now, if I may, what were you doing all by yourself? I've always seen you all together? N-not that I've been keep tabs on you all or anything,” she replied.

“I was out making money for the guild, ERPing because the others want platinum gems to go chronocyst grinding later,” I spat, as the knights around me gasped audibly, and Uni grimaced.

“You'd...do that? Are you that desperate for money?” she asked incredulously.

“Not me, but Jake was adamant that we needed vast sums of cash,” I spat, “I was indifferent to the whole thing...'Til I did it.”

“I-I see,” Uni said, dropping the subject, as a large black pyramid loomed in the distance, I gathered this was our destination. As we neared, I gawked at this massive structure, its entire surface carved with delicate letters of a type I couldn't read. Stepping beside a large door, I stared at the large entrance, as a squad of Uni's knights hefting a large ram, smashed the door in.

“That seemed easy,” I quipped, as Uni eyed me coolly.

“That's because the next bit is going to be all the harder. The only reason this is so easy is because the gods knew no one would be foolish enough to do what we would,” Uni countered. Stepping into the pyramid, I found the complex gloomy, with the only light coming from glowing crystals affixed to the walls. Skittering shadows slunk about, and I snorted at the dingy corridors as my foot stepped on a skull, smashing it, causing me to jump back with a yelp. Looking down at the floor, I gasped, staring at the multitude of skeletons scattered across the floor,

“Do you see what I mean now, Deegal? This place is dangerous,” she stated, motioning for me to follow. We slunk along the dank corridors , as we passed dark dead-ends filled with gilded sarcophagi, long faded murals depicting fantastic figures battling terrible monsters, and the bones of previous explorers.

“What are we even searching for here?” I whispered, as Uni scanned the walls, floor and ceiing.

“We are looking for two artifacts; The Last Chronicle, a sort of history of the opening parts of the war and the Cleaver of Ayin, the war goddess  If we can gain these two mystic instruments, then our battles for the future will be all the easier.”

“You keep saying that, but what does that even mean? Battle for the future?”I asked, as Uni paused, turning slowly to me, sweat forming on her brow as she pointed down the corridor as I saw a hovering light. Spying this sight, I sucked in a breath of fright, as a ghoulish vision glided silently past.  Standing a head taller than I, with the head of a scarab, the figure possessed giant flowing wings , with  a faintly glowing halo above its head. The light I spied before was a lantern hefted like this floating angelic figure like a weapon. My heart shuddered with fright as if gripped by a fear unknown to me. While worried, this utter terror was completely alien to me, as a title materialized above its head.

[Obsidian Scarab Attendant]

Divine Beast Class

Level 199

Gripped by this unknown fear, I let lose a muffled shriek, as the Scarab Attendant jerked towards me, its large eyes narrowing, as its torch flared.

[Kiss from a Mourning Rose] shimmered above it, as a wracking pain shot through my chest as I noticed a beautiful tattoo of a rose bled over my chest. My skin darkened, and the fear in my heart grew, as I stood on the spot, Uni's cries ringing hollowly in my ears. Visions flooded my mind; of a friend long-gone, Maxwell, a friend I knew when I was only four, forced to move from when my father transferred, a first love, lost in confusion and inexperience, setting out to college, only to have my experience ruined with foolish partying and procrastination. All these happy memories tainted by awful endings, as I slumped forward, blanketed with pain, shame and regret, as the angelic Attendant loomed over me.

“Mortal, see now your sin. All life is beauty, but mortal lives are transient, and will inevitably lead to pain. For the crime of your trespass upon this most holy ground, you will die, alone, and surrounded by your mistakes,” it boomed in a crisp voice, as I barely managed to stay upright, tears flooding my cheeks as my heart chilled, and I fell backwards, the warmth and hope I felt before at this adventure fading.

“Deegal, you total idiot!” Uni whimpered, clutching an ornate blade, as I lolled towards her as I felt my life slipping away. True, I would probably come back, but what would happen to Unipopcorn and the others? Yes, they're strong, but if this is the first monster we encountered, what awful beasties lurked deeper in?”

A shimmering ball of light hovered over me, as I grabbed it, relishing the warmth and energy flood through my body, as the Attendant flitted back several inches, its eyes growing wide.

“It makes sense now; the brazen flippancy of the statutes of Heaven, the supernatural will, the degenerate dress, you are a child of Hu Shian,” the Attendant declared, as Unipopcorn snickered, emboldened by my second wind.

“Those statutes are as dead as your masters, Angel. I am a servant of the Soldonna, the lone living god. Submit to me and let us investigate this place,” Uni demanded, as the Attendant paused.

“Soldonna? I know not such a divinity. All I see are interlopers upon the place granted to me as custodian. Now, I will cleanse this filth,” it declared as it bellowed,” Hear me all those you who walked upon this sanctified land. Rise once again and fulfill the debt you accrued in your lives with your greed.”

His words echoed across the corridors, as the entire complex grew quiet, with only the rising sound of cluttering and clacking rising in the distance as my heart sank, knowing what this sound meant.

“Uni, we need to leave. Now,” I barked, as Uni cocked her head at my sudden declaration.”

“Why?”

“Because there's about to be a lot of new frien--” I managed, interrupted by  the creaking as the walls crumbled with the clawing of a thousand skeletal fingers. Surrounded on all sides by an irrepressible horde of unliving interlopers, my fear turned to determination as I realized flight was no longer possible.

“If that's the case, then we need to fight! I have a mission, and I'm not going to die here! Soldonna guide me!” Uni keened, slashing down at the horde of undead before us with her glowing blade, scything away a path as we scrambled forward. We ran further and further into the complex, with every inch swarming with undead as I wondered how man of these were new monsters or were merely other zombies we dispatched already, returned to the fight with whatever wizardrt driving them to fight on even now. Before I gained an answer to this, we rounded a corner into a large  room, much larger than any other we encountered, as the hordes of undead hung back. Catching our breath, I took stock of our surroundings. The room itself was bare, save for the elaborate friezes of ancient gods and demons, with a single adornment in the room being a stone slab in the center of the room. Upon the stone slab was a small black bundle, which I hesitantly pored over. Realizing it was a book, I opened it, and much to my surprise, I could read the strange, curved script.

“What does it say?”

“And so, Ayin He, of the Hellion, passed from this earth, pierced by the lance of Mars Hecate and the wicked demon's insidious blood. Know this who seek this Chronicle, that gods do not die easily or with peace. Take care, for your lives will truly be interesting ones,” I recited, as I looked around the room, realization dawning in my mind.

“Deegal, what's the matter?”

“That book, what I read is why the undead aren't chasing us in here,” I said, looking around the room.

“I don't get it, what are you even saying?” Uni demanded, as I looked her in the eye.

“There's something in this room even worse than the undead,” I answered, as the friezes on the walls creaked, rising from their poses, as they knelt, their brows to the ground as one, as the central frieze, a wild-haired woman wielding a plethora of swords, axes and scythes, opened its eyes, as the frieze cracked like a cocoon and the desiccated husk of a mummy, easily six and a half feet tall, rose from the ruined frieze. Adorned with what assuredly were once fine silks and even in the dim light of the lantern crystals, her gilded chains and multitude of gems and precious amulets were plain to see. Blinking with eyes long rotted away, this corpse stumbled forward unsteadily as the undead ceased their clattering, all kneeling before this newcomer, as Uni and I froze.

“Where are my arms? Where are the trumpets? I am the Hellion, the Corpse-Crow! The one who Laughs for Gore and Song! Where are my armies?” it demanded in a raspy voice, as Uni and I looked at one another,” No one? No answer?”

“Hellion,” Uni said gently,” You are dead. You died fighting Mars Hecate. I merely sought whatever wisdom I could find in the quest to avenge you and your siblings against the Planetes.”

“Dead. Dead. Dead.....dead,” the mummy replied, as if tasting the word each time, “I do not recall this. You lie, mortal. Lie, seeking my throne for yourself! Now, your blood will feed my blade.”

Immediately, the friezes rose, pressing against the walls, as the room expanded, and a large black-edged serrated sword slowly descended from the ceiling, as the mummy clenched it tightly.

“Grialphur, my dear pet. Drink your fill of these vermin” the mummy cooed, as the blade vibrated with a deep thrumming, filling the air with an uncomfortable heaviness.  I swallowed, as I entered a fighting stance, desperately ignoring the blinking World Ogre Mask on my skill tab. Uni lunged forward, her blade flashing in a golden glow. The Hellion parried the stroke, lunging with a riposte too fast to follow, as my body jerked forward, lunging with a fearsome right hook, grazing the Hellion's cheek. She screeched with anger, while Unipopcorn jumped over me, seizing the initiative with a downward stroke of her shining sword. This surprise attack bit into the Hellion's shoulder, as she gurgled with pain and anger, slicing with Grialphur wildly in response.

“Get back, “ I roared, tossing Unipopcorn away, the blade sliced my chest cruelly, as I staggered back. Focusing my anger into my hands, I instinctively used my Kindly Jab Technique, one of the various healing techniques the Jetter possessed, stabbing my fingers into my chest as I felt the sweet sting of my body healing itself. With this counterattack, the Hellion howled, her body bulging, as a plethora of new arms sprouted from her body as her body filled out more, forming into a fierce woman with wild hair and glowing eyes. Narrowing her gaze to me, she raised her hands as numerous weapons materialized into her grip. Dashing forward, she was a cyclone of malice poised as the World Ogre Mask skill flared ever brighter, and I succumbed to the anger in my fear. Catching her initial strokes with  twin scythes with my bare hand, I ignore the pain as I twisted about, catching her in the face with a Screaming Jetter Kick. This brutal riposte did little to faze her, as she stabbed me time and again. I  didn't care, though, as a glowing light billowed around me, and I felt my wounds close, as I grinned. Apparently, even my battle aura desired to see me succeed.

“What manner of power is this?” the Hellion demanded, as “ huffed, trying to contain my strength,” This isn't the power of Hu Shian's children. Where did you learn such power little one?”

“From the World-Devouring Ogre Effigy, you bint! I'm going to smash you till there's nothing but splintered bones left,” I hissed, as the Hellion cackled.

“I...I see. Show me your resolve, then, little mortal,” she mocked, as I felt my wrath billow in my throat as I unleashed a World Ogre Scream, using the opportunity to rocket forward with a follow-up Screaming Jetter Kick. The Hellion braced for the Scream, hit by both the wave of rage and the  bone-shattering kick. I grinned maniacally at my assured victory, as not even a god could hope to withstand the apocalyptic might of my blows. Then the Hellion sighed.

Her arms lashed out with lightning speed, piercing my body time and again.

I screamed, collapsing backwards, as I hefted my fingers to my chest, pushing my chakra points once more, hoping my body had enough strength to heal itself. The Hellion loomed over me, as she shrieked in pain, as a golden blade shot forward, piercing her side. In that one moment, Unipopcorn rushed forward, grabbing me, as she dragged me away from the melee.

“Uni, what are you doing?” I gasped, as she frowned.

“I'm saving you, you idiot,” she hissed, all traces of her haughty affectation gone in the heat of the moment,” I can't fight this thing by myself. Besides, she seems far more interested in you than me.”

“Well, uh, thanks for the assist, “ I managed, as I felt my wounds knit back together, observing the fight. Uni possessed supreme skill and speed with her blade, but the Hellion was just as fast, and armed with six times as many blades, gave as much as she took in their tense back and forth.

“Impressive, human, that you and your little consort are able to stand up to me, but this ends now,” the Hellion mocked, stepping back as her extra arms vanished.

“I won't let you! Shining Solar Ray!” Uni roared, launching a flash of golden light at the Hellion as a wall of blade wielding limbs erupted from the walls, the shadows and even the air itself. Uni stepped back, gawking at this naked display.

“Surprised? I am the Army made Flesh, the Bella Belli, the War Child. You are a mere little girl, restricted to two hands and two feet to wage war. The entire world is my body, my weapon. You never could win,”  the Hellion called. Unipopcorn gritted her teeth, as I rose, feeling my anger rise once more, the World Ogre's rage swept over me. However, unlike before, a new skill tab flashed beside the World Ogre mask's tab, and I hesitantly pored over it.

“World Ogre Cleaver, huh? Well, here goes nothing,” I growled, as I felt a swelling of power in my throat, as I plucked something off my tongue, finding a darkly glowing large, serrated blade in my grip.

“Oh,” I thought with what scant musing the World Ogre Mask afforded me, as I leaped before Uni, batting aside each blade turned against her in turn. There was no finesse or skill in my strokes, only the raw power and anger I possessed as a Jetter funneled through the lens of the World Ogre Mask.  As the legion of limbs stood bested back, I leveled the large weapon in my grip towards the Hellion, unleashing all my remaining anger, frustration and hope.

“This is it. If I die now, after this,” I thought as I felt my stroke bite into her, “Then I'll have no regrets. There couldn't have been anything else I could've done.”

Looking up at the Hellion, I saw the stroke merely scratched her face, as she wiped the small line of blood off her face, licking it gingerly, as she blinked, while I jumped back and waited for her inevitable counterattack.

Finally, she spoke up,“I-I remember. I do remember. The others were afraid, far more afraid than that idiotic tower....And then those ten came. I slew three of them; Eris Polus, Ceres Mnemosyne,  Phobos Phoebe, but then that witch with her lances arrived, and I felt something I never thought I'd experience before....Death. I died. I saw the funeral the others gave me, and my mind wandered the world. I hoped someone would succeed me, that Grialphur would be adopted by another. It seems my hope was correct. Thank you, daughters of Aleph Lamed and Hu Shian. I may return to my rest, and dream with those who dwell in the dark places we resided before Humans...”

Dwindling like a dimming flame back into her mummy form, the Hellion retreated into her frieze-sarcophagus, as the statues rose, drawing the room back to its original size, while the undead clattered to the ground, mere piles of bones once more. Grialphur floated to the pedestal beside The Last Chronicle, as I reached for it, hope and pride swelling in my breast, as a blossom of red splattered across the pedestal as I gasped, looking down at the wound as a chuckle echoed across the room.

“I'm sorry senoriters, but that zan-bah-tow is mine,” they called, as a scruffy blond man stepped forward, tossing the blood off his blade while sheathing it in a single motion.

[azure-et-aurum-blog]

Gaiden: Honor and Liberty

((Soundtrack: The Great Sea and Blue Forever ))

Another morning comes for the Mist Residential District. A chilling reminiscing breeze from the dawn blows and the waves produce the orchestral soundtrack for this time. There is no one on the beaches. The merchants are setting up their tents and stores. In one or two houses, you can hear the sound of chocobos, or a dog barking. The sun still hides behind the hills.

A young Highlander woman, tall and blonde, carries a package slowly across the white-stoned streets of the residential area. She hums a song with a soft voice and smiles with full pinkish lips. Her steps are precise, calculated, like she was dictating the rhythm of the own song coming out from her mouth. She wears a delicate dress, lilac, with some flowers embroidered along it.

She stops in front of a house, white and red, riviera style. The placard in front of the fence was saying “Take off your shoes before enter”. The young lady chuckles and expels a “you wish, don’t you?”, shrugging at the warning. She knocks the red big double door. Not too many moments later, the door opens and a Miqo’te girl, appearing to be on her late teens, answers. She opens wide her round eyes seeing the Hyur lady in front of her to whom she exclaims “Laurana!” before holding her tight, almost making the blonde Highlander drop the package she was holding.

“Seda! So it’s you here! Glad I’ve brought more tarts and milk then.”

“Aww, you always think of everything, don’t you?”

“Someone has to, sweetie. That big loaf of a Raen would make everyone starve if we let him on the control.”

The Miqo’te girl laughed at the thought of Shintaro looking like a loaf of bread and then nodded agreeing with Laurana. Seda Zhwan was pretty short and petite for her age. A Keeper of the Moon lone soul. One more that Shintaro encountered on his wanderings through Eorzea. She won her life being too good with numbers. So much that she would trick dishonored merchants to take away their money and share with a small group of kids that considered her a “Bigger Sister”. Her boldness brought her trouble once and Shintaro fortunately helped her to get away from that.

As they entered the house, Seda shows all the papers she’s been gathering. “Quite the work”, Laurana noted.

“Yes! I’ve been collecting all the data I can from the members of the Forever Blue Initiative. Both the Incorporated and the Sailings.” Seda cheerfully talks about her tasks.

“Shintaro would be proud of you if he knew that.” Laurana smiled. “Now that he’s away, it’s the perfect time to organize this and put this initiative on the road.”

“I agree! He left sooooooo much work undone, I’m almost crying here... why is he always this lazy and air-headed?” The Miqo’te puts both her hands on her face and then messes her hair with a crazy-scientist look. “But I must go on! Or my name isn’t SEDA!”

“Calm down... let’s eat first, honey...” Laurana sets up the wooden table and rests trays with tarts, bread, milk and tea on it. They all seem delicious and fresh.

“Owwwn... alright...”

Half an hour passed and they are now resting after the breakfast. Laurana is sitting on the couch (although, occupying two seats instead of one) and Seda is rubbing her belly sitting on a comfortable armchair.

“Heeey... Laurieee...” A lazy Miqo’te tries too hard to speak.

“Hm?”

“Tell me a story...?”

“Sure, which one, kitty?”

“Why... the coat of arms of the Forever Blue is like this?” Seda points to the banner with Forever Blue Inc. coat of arms and moto.

Laurana set herself straight and rested her hand on her chin, thinking about it. “I know that Shintaro told me about it... let me remember...” After thinking for almost two minutes, Laurana got up of the couch, grinning from ear to ear and walks to the bookshelf. “Where...? Where...? Oh here! This one!” She picks a book written “Heralds and Coat of Arms: Symbols and Meanings”. Inside it, there are several paper written in doman and eorzean languages. “Why, Shintaro. WHY DO YOU HAVE TO WRITE IN THOSE WEIRD SYMBOLS?!” She skim the papers until finding a drawing of the coat of arms, a sketch that probably Shintaro did, with several drafts until the final choice. Behind, in Eorzean (luckily), there is an explanation, probably to the crafter, of the meanings and symbols.

“Alright! Found it!”

“What?”

“Shintaro showed me this once. He said that after pondering about everything, we should settle with this. I honestly didn’t care at first, because... you know... he is the ‘noble one’ here.” She sighed and then chuckled. “But here we go... let’s see what the hells this symbol means.”

“Coat of Arms.” Seda tries to fix Laurana.

“Whatever.” The Hyur shrugs smiling.

“So...?”

“Well, you see the blue color? It’s called Azure. It says here that means ‘for steadfastness, strength, truth & loyalty’. Uhh fancy!” She laughs and continues reading. “Gold, or Or, is for ‘understanding, respect, virtue and majestic.’ Interesting. Argentum is for ‘Cleanliness, wisdom, innocence, sincerity, peace and joy’.”

“Wow, this seems too fancy to my taste. Where did Shintaro learned about this stuff?”

“I know, right?! Wait, there’s more!”

“Oh, do tell me!”

“You see the ‘V’ part? It’s called Chevron Division and means Protection. The three fish, representing the three times Bravery. And a Lightning, meaning the swift response of our initiative. Damn you, Raen, this is wholesome!”

“I agree, it’s seems like we are part of something really important!” Seda nods happily to Laurana.

“I guess this represents all the memories and people he has, you know? You didn’t spend too much time with him yet, but... he remembers everything. He was always this person, that makes you feel wonderful, important, just to make sure that you are free from any restraints. Then he wanders again... because it’s his nature.”

“I see there’s... some words on the Coat of Arms too. ‘Honor and Liberty’.”

“It says here that this is the ‘moto’. Some sort of Oath that your order lives by.” Laurana answers looking at the book of Heraldry. “Well. I guess we all have something to look for, then. When he comes back from Othard, we should make sure that this initiative lives by its moto.”

Hanged on the wall, the coat of arms shine with the first sunbeam hitting it. Laurana and Seda look at the same time to it, and smile, proudly. Laurana hangs her hand on Seda’s shoulder, to which the Miqo’te answers by resting her hand on Laurana’s.

And it was just another morning coming for the Mist District.

[fmlfpl]

Lineup Lamentations - GW13

Our Transfers, Captains, and Starting 11s for the week!

And if you missed it for subscribers Friday My Life episode just came out!

—

WALSH

TRANSFERS:

OUT: Salah, Pukki, Nketiah

IN (for -4 points hit): Dendoncker, Kane, Vardy

Time to shake up the squad with my first hit of the season.

Mo and this ankle situation feels like not something I want to be monitoring or thinking about in the near term so once I decided to bin him the moves made themselves.

I am back in on Kane.. my lover and FPL mistress will always be welcomed back to both either of my bosoms. I am all in on Mou bouncing them and sticking Kane back to traditional nine as he has done in years past. I have idea who will play in midfield or where but I do believe that Kane will be back up top with no fucking about and he will get them to feed the machine. I've got most of my other bases covered and this just felt like the best way to give me points. Gives me a horse who will start and play all these games as well as strengthening my bench with that Livp blank on the horizon.

Let's go Harold you lad.

Vardy still sucks.

GK:

Pope (wat)

Pope somehow got points last gameweek so maybe it will beget more points in this. He only has two more good fixtures before they turn so hopefully he can put some more points on the board. Been feeling antsy with him but not sure I'll have a transfer to spew on GK in the near term. TBD.

DEF:

Alexander-Arnold & Robertson (cry)

Trent and R0bbo still plod along game on game as Livp do their best Fulham impression at keeping cleans. Robbo knocked is a worry but meh he'll prob play. Whatever.

Good fixtures run for these so hoping that they finally kick into gear and keep some cleans to repay my faith.

Lundstram (MUN)

Pointstram obviously is in there as he will be for the rest of the season assuming he doesn't die or get dropped. Not a great feel with Manchu rolling in without Hendo and possibly with Jagz in there but whatever. Who knows which version will show up? I do not.

Rico (WOL)

Last is Rico. Ugh vomit poop. No faith in him and I hate him for the points he has gotten me on the bench. Somewhat reasonable on paper fixture so he's going to try his best to get me two points instead of one point. Time will tell.

MID:

Only three lonely mids as I have an eye to turn this trio into a duo.

Sterling & De Bruyne (CHE)

Raz and Kev are still chilling and I feel fine holding them both for a while. I believe in City and I think that points are coming for these two.

Mount (mci)

Mount somehow is still in my team despite drawing a lot of my disdain recently. Not much to say about him other than he is biding time in my team for me to build up an extra transfer to turn him into fodder and go 523.

FWD:

Kane (whu) & Vardy (bha) & Abraham (mci)

Forward group looks like point central with Kane Vardz and Tamela.

I guess Tam and Vard at this point are just like empty spots since everyone has them? Kinda? Either way, I guess it's good to have the good players who get points.

CAP:

Kane (whu)

Silly if you thought I wouldn't back big Harold in his first Mou game.

Come on Harry! Show us old Harry new manager bounce come on harry be a great guy i love you harry get me some goals assists and points come on harryyyyyy.

I can see the headlines now: "Mourinho struggles to a 0-0 draw at the Olympic in first game as King of the Potatoes" yipeee.

—

ALON

TRANSFERS:

OUT: Hudson-Odoi, Kelly, Lowton, and Pukki

IN (for -8 points hit): Maddison, Guilbert, van Dijk, and Connolly

WOW.

Here we are.

I think Walsh being very mad and very frustrated for two weeks and on the last normal pod has rubbed off on me a bit. I mean hits are also in my nature and I have a good track record of hits... It’s not that much of a stretch considering for two weeks I’ve been basically nailed on gonna take a -4 to get to -8 just one more click ya know?

My team was very flagged and in trouble as you can see I’ve removed a red flag backup in CHO, a backup in Kelly (Ward is fit), a player bombed out of the 11 in Lowton, and the old bald shtity guy who plays for the worst team in the Premier League... As far as -8s go pretty fucking good to get rid of a total of 2 points.

As for the guys I brought in Connolly was a panic like two weeks ago when Pukki was dropping again I made the early move of bringing in the now red flagged Connolly but it’s fine he’s gonna ride the bench anyway and should be back soon... The last trio came together literally last second right after Friday My Life I found a set of three that I like and all fit perfectly and just fucking did it.

Maddo is good, despite being down on him (or at least MORE down then most people) I still always said yes he’ll tick and get points, and Goodman kinda convinced me more on him from the Fireside.

I back Liverpool to start keeping cleans now that they don’t have the ridiculously bad fixtures anymore and VVD will start every single match in the pileup. He’s also kinda cover for me since the ownership between Trent/Robbo/Alisson is very high.

And lastly Guilbert Fred Gilbert comes in. He’s been pretty good and attacking since GW3 when he started starting but more importantly for my team he rotates very well with Soy/Tomori so the upcoming fixtures that I’ll be starting Guilbert in are home Newcastle this week, home Southampton in GW18, and home Norwich in GW19. Maybe more, who knows, but that’s the plan.

Alright long transfers section is done and I still feel good about the hit. I’m happy (for now).

GK:

Gazzaniga (whu)

Fortress Mou cometh. Cleans cometh. Let’s go.

DEF:

van Dijk (cry)

Oh hey bro welcome to the squad you almighty being.

Not feeling fantastic about a clean away and Liverpool usually play like shit after international break but it’s certainly possible with Palace’s shitty ass attack.

Lundstram (MUN)

Really hope that Egan comes in so it’s not a Jags absolute shit-show disaster. Still worried about no Hendo. Worried in general about this one have a bad feeling about the clean but you know Lund can get attacking returns vs. anyone and it’s home so let’s go Lundy.

Söyüncü (bha)

One of four guys that I’ve had since GW1; I fucking love Soy.

Away is tougher then home for this clean but I still expect it and expect Leicester to control and kill the match.

Guilbert (NEW)

Another new bro getting in there.

Newcastle somehow have been generating attack lately (Saint-Maximin in) but I still consider them the worst attack or at least bottom three attack in the division so home vs. Newcastle to me is as good a chance of a clean as any.

And maybe Fred is feeling saucy and gonna throw in an assist???

MID:

Salah (cry)

No words... if he plays then he’s captain material. If he plays but isn’t fit then fuck me. If he doesn’t play then really fuck me... Sweating the teamsheet a lot on this one as he might go from not a problem at all to a big problem very quickly tomorrow morning.

Sterling & De Bruyne (CHE)

I still back the MCI guys to score lots of goals and points and haven’t thought about ditching either yet. And I think that City are gonna score a lot of goals vs. Chelsea like at least three in my opinion so I love this match from FPL perspective.

Maddison (bha)

New friend.

Passes into the box / key passes / Casino merchant / cunt, he really ticks every box for me. Just gonna sit back and watch the points trickle in... Or the points’ll dry up and I’ll fucking hate myself for not backing myself.

TBD.

FWD:

Vardy (bha)

Duh.

Abraham (mci)

Duh Part 2.

CAP:

Salah (cry)

Well here we are... Part one of what I said about Mo was that if he’s fit then he’s cap material and so I’m taking that risk... I have vice on Vardy just in case.

I didn’t feel good capping Kevin or Raz or Vardy this week which I guess puts me largely in the minority but I don’t know Brighton have been really solid at home (5th best NPxGA) and Vardy shoots like 1-2 times per match and I’m just like meh maybe Liverpool just win 3-0 and Mo double returns. I can picture that a lot easier but maybe that’s just me.

Hate captain.

As Pod Partner said you gotta go with your balls and your penis sometimes. Alas.

—

RANDOM SLACKER OF THE WEEK: JEFFD

The words of Random Slacker are not officially endorsed by this website nor any employees of FML FPL LLC.

TRANSFERS:

OUT: Pukki & Salah

IN (for -4 points hit): Jiménez & Mané

Fear-based transfers IN. I’m taking only my second hit of the season in Gameweek 13, which represents massive personal growth for me as an FPL manager. My transfers this week were inspired by a Mourinho quote:

“…during my career, I made mistakes, and I'm not going to make these mistakes, I'm going to make new ones.”

The Pukki to Jiménez move doesn’t need much explaining. Canaries linger in my team because while I was foolishly shuffling KdB out and back in, I should have been dealing with stagnant assets like Pukki. Getting Jim isn’t the most titillating move, but after looking at the options at or below this price, he seems like the most sensible option in both the short- and medium-term.

I decided on the Mo to Mané sideway shuffle very late based on the landscape of my money league with my mates. I’m near the top of the league, and we’re all bad, but I’m the least bad historically. I noticed that I’m the only manager of 12 that still owns Mo, almost everyone has Mané, and I can’t tolerate this risk any longer.

Given health and recent form, I think the probability that Mané outperforms Mo is so much larger than the other way around this week — and over the next few weeks — and I'm prioritizing keeping pace rather than owning a differential. So I’m conceding the 4 points now to correlate my team a little more with the rest that own Mané. If I miss out on a run of Mo hauls, please refer to the José quote above.

GK:

Pope (wat)

His 9 points last gameweek were very unexpected and appreciated. Still, this is a player I’m looking at “downgrading” for a few extra coins before the blanks in GW18.

DEF:

Alexander-Arnold & Robertson (cry)

I can’t say enough about these guys. I look forward to owning them both for the rest of the season. I’m praying for Robbo’s health — because I love him — and my bench is loathsome.

Lundstram (MUN)

Looking forward to his 2-21 points this week. This is not new information, but the positions that Lundstram has been taking up in the past few matches are preposterous for someone classed as a defender in FPL. I’ve been almost forced to start him every week based on my personnel, which has proved advantageous since some other managers with deeper teams ended up benching him and missing out.

MID:

Mané (cry)

New guy gets a haiku:

Senegalese stud;

scores with both feet and his head;

welcome to my team.

De Bruyne (CHE)

I spent a lot of transfers and lost some value getting him out and back in. If he would repay the faith, that would be great. Note that if Kevin is going to score against a previous club that spurned him any time soon, it surely has to be this week.

Mount (mci)

As a Yank, I’ve watched Pulisic a lot, and this not the player I’m used to seeing. I think he’ll regress or get hurt, and then maybe the proverbial pendulum will swing back to Mount. Chelsea have some home bankers coming up, so I’ll reassess this spot frequently in the coming weeks.

Tielemans (bha)

I used my two frees last week to get this guy and Vardy, so I was obviously buzzing when they linked up for that goal. I opted to get him over Maddo and invest funds in my bench down the road, so I’m perversely desiring to see Youri keep pace with or outperform Maddo.

I don’t think it’s unreasonable to imagine him having a license to get farther forward and score in a match like this where Leicester may be bossing possession for long periods.

FWD:

Vardy (bha)

I’m a math/stats guy for work, and I enjoy FPL since eye-test is often so much more illuminating than stuff like xG. That being said, Vardy can’t keep up what he’s doing statistically, but I’m here to embrace and benefit from his unsustainable scoring record for as long as it lasts.

Abraham (mci)

Starting double Chelsea attack away to City does not inspire confidence in my squad, but City defense is a shadow of its former self, and we’ve seen Tammy get behind and punish mistakes, so I have optimism here.

Jiménez (bou)

The third pillar in the VAJ frontline. Do something, you donkey.

CAP:

Vardy (bha)

We may very well see a beleaguered Brighton side given injuries and Dunk’s suspension. We know what Vardy can do with limited chances, so this seems like the sort of match where he can actually get a volume of quality opportunities and maybe even a jammy pen.

[cathcacen]

I’ll be your friend, your other brother

Strahan dies and Rei finds comfort in an unexpected source.

Virkove isn’t at all what she’d expected. In the days following her arrival in the city with Heulan and their new friends, Ora has managed to make some new contacts – the local barkeeps, apothecaries, tradesmen, and smiths. She’s gained some valuable information regarding the trading norms of the Northerners, and she’s even managed to touch base with the Keep’s suppliers.

All in all, she thinks it’s been a very productive trip.

She doesn’t expect to see their forlorn travelling party again, so she’s more than surprised when Rei shows up at her lodgings in town, a bundle of furs and a basket of baked goods in tow.

The young woman is obviously exhausted – dark rings circle dull eyes, and there’s an edge in her voice that betrays anxiety. Her hair is limp, the curls knotted into a messy tangle at the nape of her neck. Despite that, she tries for a smile, and Ora has to wonder how long it’s been since the woman has slept through the night.

“Rei, hi.” She ushers the young woman into her and Heulan’s shared quarters, and fusses about with the tea. Her partner is currently out – something about helping a new friend with building a baby’s cot – and she’d only just gotten back from a daytrip to a nearby hamlet. “How’re you doing?”

“Well enough.” Rei’s words don’t match her expression, but Ora finds she doesn’t have the heart to call her out for the lie. “I’m sorry it took so long to call on you. We were a little caught up.”

“Oh, don’t worry about that.” She pours some boiling water into their teapot, hoping she’s got the right leaves, then sets it down, along with two cups, at the table in the centre of the room. “We were at the funeral. It was a very heartfelt ceremony.” She pauses, and hopes she’s saying the right things. It isn’t often she’s had to make this kind of small talk. “I’m sorry for your loss.”

“Yes, I thought I saw you and Heulan at the hill.” The healer’s smile is slightly strained. “We didn’t get to thank you for your help getting us back safely. I’m glad you’re still here – I was worried I wouldn’t be able to thank you properly. Have you connected with the local merchants?”

She nods at the other as she pours the tea. It’s under-steeped. Shit. “Some, yes. We’re working out the details for a couple of trading partnerships. Then we’ll have to do the rounds and see what goods are needed here.” Her cheeks flush warmly as she nudges a cup of tea forward. “Sorry. Heulan makes the tea. I just drink it.”

Rei lets out a wry chuckle, the barest hint of amusement flashing across her eyes. Then, reaching over, she digs into her basket, withdrawing a clear bottle filled with warmly-coloured, golden-brown liquor. “I brought something a little stronger, so I’ll be drinking this if you don’t mind.”

“Oh, thank the gods.”

The healer downs the first glass of tea, then fills both teacups with her liquid courage. They clink their cups together; it’s a rich, smoky whiskey she tastes, full-bodied and slightly salty. She’s just deciding that she likes it when she realises Rei’s poured a second glass.

“Hey. Wow.”

“Strahan.” Rei raises her cup again, the motion half-hearted. “To my brother, who knew bones and fine whiskey.”

She reaches out to grab the healer’s wrist, frowning. It’s a little presumptuous, she knows, but instinct tells her the young woman isn’t a frequent drinker. Not like you’re one to be giving advice here, but it doesn’t hurt. “You sure you want to be doing this? Are you even supposed to be drinking?”

As Lear tells it, the battle that had killed Strahan had also left Rei bedridden for a couple of weeks.

Rei thins her lips, meeting her eyes. Mild annoyance flashes in the hazel-greens, but it is quickly replaced with something else – a silent, vulnerable plea coupled with just a hint of nervousness. The words cut into the silence, sending ice into her heart. “I don’t want anyone at home to worry.”

She studies the young healer. Rei is strong, she knows – physically strong enough to pull away and drink all she damn well pleases. She doesn’t need permission – not from her family, not from her friends, and certainly not from me. The realisation hits. She just wants company – the company of a perfect stranger who won’t judge or worry unnecessarily.

It feels a little familiar.

“Alright, then.” She drains her own cup and allows Rei to refill it. “Alright. To your brother, who knew bones and fine whiskey.”

She finds herself standing at Rei’s front door one week later. The Naveau manor occupies a large plot of land atop a hill, built with plenty of room to spare. In better times, it might have housed the family’s retainers and servants. But it’s a time of war, and they will all have been relocated to the front by now – cooks for the militia, assistants for the officers, and scribes for the record-keepers. It’s Chryse who answers the door and points her to the family rooms upstairs.

Rei is sitting on the floor of a large bedroom – Strahan’s, she assumes – shoulders slumped over as she sorts through piles of books, charts, and notes. She’s not dressed for visitors, bundled up in an ink-stained nightgown and a thick, fur-lined robe. The healer is as unkempt as Ora has ever seen her. It’s not a pretty sight.

She glances up as Ora enters, evidently a little confused. “Oh, Ora. What’re you doing here?”

“Just wanted to check up on you.” She kneels beside the healer, then gently rights an overturned bottle of ink. In addition to destroying the healer’s nightgown, it’s seeped into the floorboards, staining the dark wood a midnight blue. “I know I’m not a healer, but I’m pretty sure drinking all that whiskey wasn’t the smartest idea you’ve ever had.” She pauses, and Rei favours her with a slightly embarrassed smile. “You didn’t end up throwing up and ripping your stitches, did you?”

Rei bites her lip and focuses her attention upon a stack of papers. “Let’s not talk about that. I thought you were due to leave today?”

“We’re thinking of taking a short trip to Tormorden tomorrow, but that’ll take us three days at the most.” She settles down on the floor, crossing her legs. “Heulan and I talked it out, and we think we might stick around for a bit after all. There’s plenty that needs doing here.”

“Oh?” Rei nods thoughtfully. They’d discussed it before, enroute back to Virkove from Lut Gholein, but she’s not sure the healer remembers – Rei had mostly spent that trip lost in her own thoughts after all. “Well, it makes sense that neither of you want to be near Caldeum at this point, I guess.”

She manages a weak little laugh at that. We all have unpleasant history with Caldeum after all. “We were thinking to make Virkove our base of operations for a bit. Know who we can speak to about offering our trading services?”

“Of course.” The healer shuffles some more papers, then sighs and sets them aside atop a small stack of worn books. Yet more piles remain. “Speak to Captain Cethlion. I’ll introduce you when you get back from Tormorden.” Rei glances up. “Ugh, pass me that crate over there, will you?”

“Oh, that would be great.” She stretches out for the indicated crate. It’s filled with an assortment of used quills, bone fragments, and crumpled-up paper. A few gold coins clatter within. “Hey, should you be doing this alone?”

“There’s no one else.” Rei thins her lips, thick brows furrowing as she tosses other unwanted trinkets into the crate. “And it’s not like he’s coming home anyway. How’d you think I found his stash of whiskey?”

“Please tell me you haven’t drunk it all on your own.”

Rei’s expression takes on a slightly guilty cast. After, she shakes her head, and her voice is genuine. “Nah. I’ve learnt my lesson.” A soft sigh escapes the healer, and she slumps over again, hands falling limp over her lap. “I’m so tired, Ora. And I miss him.”

She lets out a breath. “I can’t say I know how you feel, Rei. I’ve never had a brother. But I hope you know you’ve got people on your side.”

Beneath the shadows cast by her hair, Rei’s eyelashes twitch. She doesn’t speak, but the names hang unsaid in the air. She’s aware of it – surely she knows she’s not alone, not really.

They work through the day together. Sometime past noon, Chryse shows up with some lunch. By sunset, they’ve managed to put away most of Strahan’s things – clothes to be given away, books for the library, and personal notes to be stored in Rei’s study.

Heulan’s already back at the inn by the time she gets back, cleaned up and ready for an early night. She climbs into his bed and presses her face into the small of his back, and when he turns around to ask if she’s okay, she nods and hugs him even tighter.

“Long day?”

“Not really.” She pauses, then sits up to look at her best friend. In the dim candlelight, his eyes are black, but warm as the sun and full of affection. “I don’t say this enough, but thanks for always being on my side.”