#Spoilers for Ivalinne's story

[stained-carmine]

The young duchess sat alone in her room, huddled up on the bed, hugging her knees close, tears still in the corners of her eyes even though she had long since stopped crying. The earlier incident weighed heavy on her heart, dragging her down into a deep depression. So much was on her mind. The swiftly approaching wedding, the words Eli had said to her, what she had said in return, how she had acted, and most of all, her impending demise.

A fate that couldn’t be overturned.

Hugging her knees a little closer, she rested her head upon them solemnly.

As she sat in silence, a knock would come at the door.

The girl didn’t move, nor did she speak to grant the person entrance into her room.

After a minute more of silence, the door would open slowly, as a tall, raven-haired man stepped into the room.

“Ivalinne? What is the matter?” He asked softly as he gazed at her with eyes full of concern.

“...” The young noble didn’t respond, merely hugging her knees a little tighter.

With a frown, her father sauntered over to the bed upon which she sat, gently taking a seat at the girl’s side. “What weighs upon your heart, my flower?”

The girl didn’t speak, but her eyes averted slightly to look away from him in humiliation.

“Did you perhaps get into a fight with that girl you’ve been spending time with?” He asked, watching her reaction carefully.

There was a twitch in her features at the mention, eyes narrowing and brow furrowing as she grimaced.

With her body language answering his question in the place of spoken words, he let out a small sigh as a faint smile appeared on his features. Anton knew his daughter well enough, that she tended to be unreasonable at times, insisting that she was in the right when she clearly wasn’t. Perhaps he had spoiled her a little too much, but either way, Ivalinne was his daughter, and he loved her all the same. Despite all her flaws and eccentricities, in spite of and for them, he loved his child with all his heart, and that would never change.

Reaching over, he pulled the girl closer—to which she gave a reflexive flinch as an arm wrapped around her. Giving his daughter a gentle hug, he looked to her face, seeing the tears that remained in the corners of her eyes. Lifting his hand to her face, he wiped them from her eyes, garnering a wince from the girl.

“Whatever it was you fought over must have been very important to leave you in such a state. It is all right if you do not wish to tell me what happened.” He said as he stroked the girl’s hair gently. “I have seen the two of you in the garden before. You seem to get along quite well from what I saw.” Looking to his daughter, he let out a chuckle as he gave her a warm smile. “Not to mention all the food you have been sneaking out for her.”

The young duchess flinched, a look of embarrassment appearing on her face as she glanced up at her father with a whimper. “Y-you knew of that?!” She exclaimed as her cheeks flushed with a faint red.

“Haha, of course! I know all that goes on within our estate.” He said as he turned a jovial smile to the girl. “...Though, having the servants report of our dwindling supply of pastries and other treats may have helped in that regard.” He said with an amused chuckle as he hugged his child, who merely gave a shameful whimper at having been found out.

Giving the girl a gentle smile, Anton pulled back slightly, releasing the girl from his embrace. “Ivalinne, I know you must be upset with her at this moment, but you must remember something of great importance.” He said softly, giving the girl’s head another pat as she looked up towards him with a quizzical gaze. “Every relationship has its ups and downs, its highs and lows. This is true of everyone, of you and that girl, even your mother and I. We all struggle to understand one another, to connect with the people that surround us. Sometimes we may stumble, sometimes we may fall, but nonetheless, we get back up and try again. This is true of more than just our friendships with one another, but of many things in life.” Taking a breath, his brown eyes met with Ivalinne’s red hues. “You must keep in mind what matters most.”

“Whatever it was that was said between the two of you, it hurt because she is important to you, Ivalinne, and from what I have witnessed, I can say with certainty that you are not the only one who is hurting.”

“If you truly care about her, then can you truly let things remain as they currently are? I know it must be hard right now, but eventually it will lessen. Take your time, think about what happened, and ask yourself, is it truly worth losing a friend over?”

“I...” Lowering her head, the young duchess averted her gaze, thinking back to the things Eli had said.

“I am certain it was not her intent to cause you such distress. Perhaps she just did not know how to put into words how she felt about the matter.”

The girl lowered her gaze further, a sullen look upon her face. She had no response for him. Did she perhaps misunderstand Eli’s intentions? But what she said, those words—

“Do you want to let her go?” The question came abruptly, a firm but caring gaze fixated upon his daughter.

“Ah...” Her expression twisted into a mixture of guilt and and regret. Hesitation would consume her, preventing her from answering his question. She hadn’t thought about that. Did she want to see Eli again, even after what she had said?

Anton, seeing his daughter’s inner turmoil, sighed softly. “It is all too easy to just let things be as they are, and to lose our grip on what we hold dear. Attempting to resolve an issue can be a daunting task when we are so afraid that we will only make matters worse. I know that doing nothing can seem like the best option when we are paralyzed by the fear of losing what we care about permanently.” A small, somber frown would appear on the duke’s face as he recalled a similar situation he had encountered in the past. “It may seem like there are a dozen things that could go wrong, a dozen reasons not to make an effort towards repairing this issue, but in the end, there is really only two choices here. Do you wish to act, even if there is no guarantee that you will succeed? Or will you not, thus ensuring that you will fail.”

“But Father...I—” She stopped herself from telling him what had been said, that she would die upon the day of her wedding—that they would die.

At the thought, the memory of those horrific images that had been forced into her mind would resurface, bringing tears to her eyes.

Noticing the shift in the girl’s behavior, and seeing the tears in her eyes, Anton turned to his daughter with a look of concern as he pulled her close. “What is the matter Ivalinne? What is troubling you so?”

The young duchess merely whimpered in response. I cannot tell Father......That I–...that we are... Holding in the urge to confess what she knew, the tears in the corners of her eyes would slide down her face.

Giving her a loving embrace, the duke would stroke the girl’s head, trying to ease his daughter’s suffering as best as he could. “It will be all right Ivalinne, I am sure she does not wish to lose you either. Give it time, she will come back to you, I am certain of it.” Anton said as he closed his eyes and focused on soothing his daughter’s cries, oblivious to the true reason for her tears.

Wrapping her arms around her father, the young duchess would let loose her emotions, letting her pain flow freely as she cried into her father’s arms for what would likely be the last time.

[stained-carmine]

Stepping foot into his office—the office he had just inherited from his father—Eliyah slowly sauntered over to his new desk, running his fingers along its wooden surface. Placing a hand upon the chair, he let out a soft exhale as he pulled it back. Taking a seat, azure eyes would gaze ahead aimlessly.

He’d done it. He had succeeded his father and become the head of the High Council of Aciernha’s merchant guild, just as he had promised he would.

So why didn’t he feel accomplished? Why was there still a void in his soul? A chasm in his heart that had yet to be filled. Glancing around, he took in his surroundings, committing every detail to memory.

As he sat in silence, the soft patter of rain drops could be heard against the window. Turning his head to the darkened scenery beyond the glass, he somberly stared out the window as the fall of the rain grew heavier, until it became a downpour, droplets relentlessly pelting against the glass with no end in sight. With a sigh, he turned away from the dreary weather and focused his attention on the desk at which he sat.

Sorrowful blue hues would linger upon the scuffs and scratches that marred the wood. Running his fingers along the indentations, he thought about his life thus far. The choices he had made, and the circumstances that had brought him to this very moment.

“Is that true?” A girl’s voice called out, snapping the boy out of his daze.

“A-ah...Y-yes, my father is the head of the High Council of the merchant guild. He runs the guild and keeps everything functioning properly. Without the guild, there would be no one to manage trade in and out of the city, as well as to maintain the city’s market prices. The guild is very important to the health of the economy.” Keeping his eyes glued to the ground as he spoke, he wouldn’t notice the young noble’s look of disinterest that came over her as he began to explain the inner workings of the guild.

“Mm...I suppose so.” She said with a small frown. Letting out a soft sigh, she shook her head a little. “No, that is not what I meant. I meant is it true that you are to succeed him one day?”

“Ah, y-yes...it is. When I come of age I am to begin my apprenticeship working under him. I will learn all I need to know in order for me to succeed him and become the next head of the High Counc—”

“Is that what you want?” She said firmly, a serious gaze turned towards him.

“Eh?” Lifting his head, wide eyes stared at the girl for a moment, gaze wandering until his eyes met hers, causing his heart to skip a beat as her crimson hues stared into him. For some reason, her eyes were so powerful to him. He was by no means assertive, so her commanding gaze subdued the meek boy with ease. His eyes averted once he noticed their gazes had locked, cheeks flushing faintly as he tried to calm his nervous heart. “I...uh...” He stammered as he tried to find the words to answer her.

The young duchess remained silent, frowning slightly at his anxious reaction, but paying it no more mind than that. This boy had always been a nervous wreck, ever since the day they first met. Though he was getting better at conversing with her, he still had a long way to go, and his progress had been a slow crawl. He could still hardly look her in the eye, his gaze averting whenever she turned her crimson orbs his way.

The girl’s eyes narrowed for a moment, taking on a somber light as she recalled her brief interactions with the children of the other noble families of Aciernha.

Ivalinne had always been somewhat of an oddity among her peers, not only for the strange color of her eyes, but also because of her uncharacteristically rough behavior. She didn’t quite fit in with the other children. She was too rowdy for the girls, who would rather remain indoors, playing with dolls and dressing up in their mother’s old clothes, than running through the gardens that dotted their families’ estates. As for the boys, they were hesitant to even play with a girl like her, thinking her to be like their sisters. Needless to say, they were surprised to see that she could not only keep up with them, but also give them a run for their money.

Her gaze lowered to the ground as she recalled one incident from when she was younger. One of the boys had challenged her to a race of sorts, to see who could find the other faster. Of course, she was the victor by a fair margin. As she gleefully boasted over her victory, the boy yelled at her, accusing her of cheating, to which she insisted that she didn’t. From there, it quickly devolved into a shouting match that resulted in the boy taking a swing at her. Fortunately, an adult had stepped in and put an end to the fight before anyone was hurt, but ever since, the other noble children kept their distance from her. It didn’t bother her much, she never really felt welcomed by them in the first place. The way they looked at her and whispered to one another about her odd behavior, it was clear they viewed her as an outsider, something different from them. Whether it was because her family’s superior status to the other noble families, or if it was because her eccentricities, she didn’t care. If they couldn’t judge her for who she was—if they couldn’t look past her status or appearance, things which held no bearing on who she was as a person—then she had no interest in them. She wasn’t going to pretend to be friends with people whose company she didn’t enjoy, it just wasn’t her.

Letting out a sigh, she purged those thoughts from her mind. This boy who sat here before her wasn’t like those noble brats who shunned her for her quirks. After all, he wouldn’t have continued to come back if he didn’t enjoy her company, right? Turning her gaze back to him, she interrupted his stutters with a firm voice.

“Is that truly what you wish to do?” The boy flinched as she spoke, mouth agape, unable to counter her words. “You say that is what your father has told you, what he has decided for you, but do you truly want that?”

“I-I...” He whimpered weakly in response. He didn’t know what to say, how to answer her inquiry. He had never questioned it, whether what his father had laid out for him was what he truly wished to do with his life. At a loss of how to answer her, and paralyzed by her gaze, all he could do was stare back in awe of her, this girl who had such a firm grasp on her own identity.

Seeing his dumbfounded expression, her features softened as she smiled at the boy. “...You should make your own choices, choose your own path. It is your life, you should live it how you wish.” She said as she turned her gaze out towards the vibrant flowers that surrounded them in this magnificent garden.

“To have the freedom to do as you please, to go where you want, to be anything your heart desires...” The young duchess paused as she closed her eyes and inhaled, taking in the medley of floral aromas that filled the air. Letting out a gentle exhale, her lips curled into a smile as she turned to face the boy.

“Is that not one of the greatest pleasures one can achieve? To see the world beyond the confines of this infinitesimally small garden? To reach out and grasp your dreams, to make them a reality, and to not be shackled to the will of another...is that not something you yearn for as well, Eliyah?”

Exhaling, the young man slowly opened his eyes. Somber blue orbs gazed downward, focused on nothing in particular, his mind still fixating on her smile as the words she gave him on that day so many years ago replayed within his head. A smile he’d never get to see again.

Letting out a sigh, he turned his head away, as if trying to avert his eyes from the past. It still hurt, even three years after her passing, the wound was still fresh, still so raw. When would his heart begin to mend? He thought fulfilling his promise to her would bring him closure—that keeping his word would change something, make him feel a little less broken.

But here he was, still hurting from her loss even after succeeding at that goal. Was there something missing? Something he had overlooked? Had he made the right choice? Regrets weighed upon his heart, tugging at the wound. What ifs would play out in his mind, fantasies that hurt to indulge in. The thought that maybe he could have done something that would have changed the outcome, that perhaps if he had chosen a different course of action, maybe she’d still be here.

Resting his arms upon his desk, the young man placed his head upon them. “Ivalinne, I have done as I promised you...so why do I not feel fulfilled?” He muttered to himself, words that sought no verbal answer. “...What would you say to me if you were still here with me now?” A solemn frown creased his lips as he listened to the sound of the rain against the window, the only sound that broke the silence.

Eyes lowered slowly in the wake of that suffocating loneliness that pressed against his soul. If only she were here. The light to guide his path. That warm, bright smile that gave him the courage to stand on his own. How dearly he missed it. Closing his eyes, he would imagine it, what that vivacious girl would say to him if she could see him now.

“...” Lips parted as it dawned upon him. The answer was so clear when he stopped to think about it. That unruly girl would surely be upset upon seeing that sad look in his eyes, as if he had lost hope for the future. Along the way, through the struggle to come to terms with his loss, he had forgotten that to succeed his father was not the only thing he promised.

“...Of course.” He mused aloud, lips curling into a faint, somber smile. “You would most certainly chastise me for being so melancholic. No doubt you would selfishly demand that I cheer up immediately, saying that I am not allowed to look so miserable in your presence...” A soft, self-pitying chuckle escaped him as he lifted his head. “...I was so fixated upon the first promise that I had forgotten about all the rest.” Gaze lowering as he spoke, he recalled the day he had made those promises to his beloved. “To be happy that it happened, and to not let the sadness and grief of that precious time coming to a close change us...” As the memory of that moment surfaced in his mind, faint traces of tears began to accumulate in the corners of his eyes. “Oh how I miss you...I am sorry, I had nearly forgotten my own words to you, Ivalinne.” Wiping the tears from his eyes, he took a deep breath, reaffirming his convictions. “I am not yet done here, I still have to fulfill my promise to you...”

Shifting in his chair, Eliyah turned to the side and reached for the leather bag which sat at the side of his desk. Opening it up, he retrieved an unlabeled notebook from within—the one he had recovered from the late Duke’s study in the spring. Flipping through its pages, he came to the notes concerning Anton Rozka’cer’s suspicions regarding Cyril of Falorre. “...I see now why you chose not to act, Anton.” He said as he glanced over the entry that detailed the man’s concerns over the Ardenian noble. Written in his notes were the late Duke’s speculations on the matter—theories that lacked the evidence to prove them true. To act upon his intuition at the time, when he had nothing to back it up, would have been a risky move. One that would have caused tension between the two cities. Strained relations would have been a detriment to Aciernha’s economy. In the worst case scenario, refusal based upon idle speculation could have resulted in war. It had been a precarious situation that required a delicate hand. The Duke had done all he could with the information available to him at the time.

But now things were different. What Anton had needed to prove his theories true had made itself known. The son of Arledge who had been hidden away, the woman who the Duke of Falorre had bribed to keep quiet about the child, the manipulation of factors to ensure he would be chosen as the man Ivalinne was to wed. The rotten stench of that man’s evils couldn’t be hidden any longer. With his passing, the web of lies had begun to unravel. How deep did it go? The corruption of the Falorre House. The informant that Anton had hired had confirmed what the Rozka’cers had been told, but couldn’t find evidence to support the Duke’s theory. Cyril had hidden his secrets well. No doubt this was merely the tip of the iceberg, that there was much more to uncover. An arduous journey lied ahead, one that required a careful approach, else what Anton tried to accomplish by agreeing to the engagement, the continuation of amicable relations and peace between the two cities—what the Rozka’cer family died protecting—would be thrown into jeopardy.

From here on out, the real struggle began. He had once sworn to uncover that man’s evils, to bring to light all of the awful deeds committed by Cyril of Falorre. Now, he was in a position to do so. No longer a mere child, powerless to change the world around him, Eliyah could finally bring about the realization of those dreams to honor her memory. He wasn’t helpless anymore.

Now, he could change the world.

Setting the journal down upon his desk, the newly appointed head of the High Council of Aciernha’s merchant guild pulled out an empty notebook. Retrieving a quill from the holder that sat upon the desk, the young man dipped the pen into the inkwell as he opened to the first page of the book.

Azure hues would gaze upon the blank page before him. A somber light reflected in his eyes for a moment as his courage wavered. Doubts arose in his mind as he thought about the daunting tasks ahead of him. With the Rozka’cer Dukedom no more, the duty of governing Aciernha had fallen to the guild in the absence of its leaders. With his succession, the responsibility of keeping Aciernha afloat landed squarely upon his shoulders. His once simplistic life of playing in the gardens of the Rozka’cer estate with his dear friend were long gone.

What lied before him was a treacherous path covered in thorns, one that seemed endless from where he stood. Would he really be able to do it? Was he up to the task? Was this the right choice to make? And would she be proud of him for what he was about to do? Gripping the quill a little tighter, Eliyah would swallow the lump that had formed in his throat. I cannot give in to my insecurities now, not after coming so far... He thought to himself as he closed his eyes and focused his mind upon the memory of her smile. No, I must not falter in pursuit of this goal. I owe it to her, to Anton, to Aciernha... Reopening his eyes, azure hues burned with determination. I shall keep my promises to you, Ivalinne. I swear it upon my very life.

With his purpose renewed, the young man inhaled deeply, before letting out a calming exhale. Putting pen to paper, he uttered a single phrase to himself to steel himself against the challenges that awaited him in the future, a quiet affirmation of his chosen course, and the resolution to see it through.

“Let us begin.”

[stained-carmine]

🗣+ Iva and Reiko

As day turned to night, twilight engulfing the land as light gave way to darkness, one girl sat at her window, flipping through the pages of a book she had borrowed from her father’s library.

“Mm…” The young duchess reached up a hand to rub at tired eyes. Turning her head to gaze out into the garden, she’d be met with a serene darkness. “Ah…is it already that late?” Letting out a yawn, she’d turn her focus back to the book in her hands. “I’ll just…finsih this chapter…then I’ll…go to bed…” Despite her best efforts to stay awake, her eyes closed as she began to drift off into sleep.

Catching herself, she’d reopen her eyes. “No, I need to—”

It was then that she noticed her surroundings. All around her was a pitch black darkness. No longer was she in the safety of her room, illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight.

“Where…?” The young duchess rose to her feet, glancing about in confusion. There was nothing here but her, even the book she was holding was gone. “What happened? Hello? Is anyone there?” She called out, only for her words to fall on deaf ears—or so she thought.

From the recesses of the darkness, crimson eyes peered at the child, who was oblivious to the other’s presence. Taking soundless steps forward, the woman’s lips would twist into a sneer.

The young duchess continued to call out frantically, unaware of the danger that approached her from behind. Now mere inches from the girl, the Essence would let out a soft, sinister chuckle.

The young noble, upon hearing the other’s voice, spun around swiftly. “Who is there? Show yoursel—”

Seeing the other standing there, piercing crimson boring holes into her, caused the girl to freeze up in terror. The second she locked eyes with the other, she could feel it, that oppressive sense of dread, that this person was a threat, that this stranger meant her harm.

“Why, if it isn’t the young duchess herself! I wonder what strange magic has brought you here to me. Whoever is to blame, I should thank them for this wonderful gift~” The Essence spoke, her words laced with caustic venom.

“Wh-who are you…?” It was all she could mouth in response. Her muscles were locked in place, as if she was held in spot by an invisible force. Her heart raced as she stared into those sharp eyes, unable to look away from the monster that stood before her.

“Now why would I give my name to someone as insignificant as you?” The woman said as she moved in closer, hands slowly reaching out for the young duchess. “Since you’re here, how about I make things a little…unpleasant for you?” She said with an ominous snicker as her hands grasped Ivalinne’s cheeks.

Eyes went wide as her heart skipped a beat, the girl’s entire body recoiling to this woman’s touch. The instant her hands made contact, horrifying images flashed before Ivalinne’s eyes, images of death, over and over and over. Murder, torture, pain, misery, despair.

“No! No! Make it stop! I beg of you! MAKE IT STOP!” Panic ignited in every ounce of her being as she struggled to break free. Pulling herself away from the woman, she’d fall to the floor, crying and screaming, desperately pleading for this nightmare to end.

“Oh no, I’m not done with you yet. I intend to savour this moment for as long as I can. I’ll never get another opportunity like this ever again, so there’s no way I’m not going to milk it for everything I can possibly get.” As the Essence spoke, she got down on her knees and pinned the young duchess to the floor, cutting off her escape.

“Please! I have done nothing wrong! I do not even know who you are! Please, do not hurt me!” She begged, averting her gaze from the other as tears began to well up in her eyes.

“YOU did everything wrong! You ruined EVERYTHING! Your family, your friends, everything you loved, and even yourself! You ruined it all! You’re a scourge on this world! A plague! All you will ever leave is disaster in your wake!” The Essence screamed in rage at the child beneath her. In tune with her anger, flames of black and red rose to life around them, flickering wildly as they closed in, reaching for the young duchess. The monster leaning over her bared her fangs, gritting her teeth in a snarl at the girl. Hate filled her entire being, emanating off of her like the heat of a blazing inferno. An atmosphere so oppressive that it could practically kill on its own.

All the young duchess could do was tremble in the wake of the other’s ire, tears streaming down her face furiously as she whimpered weakly. This woman was terrifying. An absolute monster, like the villains of the stories she’d heard as a child, the ultimate evil which would be vanquished by the mighty heroes that rose to fight against such tyranny.

But this was no fairy tale. There was no hero that would come to slay this demon. No savior come to rescue her from this monster. She was alone. So very alone.

“Let me show you, just how toxic you are to the world around you.” Once again raising her hands, the Essence dug her nails into the young noble’s face, drawing forth the child’s blood, the same sickly crimson that was aglow in this abomination’s eyes. Using her body to keep Ivalinne down, pressing it against the other’s as a black and red aura began to rise off the woman’s flesh, forming into wispy tendrils that reached for the young duchess, crawling across her skin.

“Look, this is your legacy.” Flexing her hands, she tightened her grip on the girl, receiving a yelp of pain in response. Her sick, twisted grin was the last thing Ivalinne would see before it started.

Images, memories, like a reel of history recorded by unknown means, she witnessed what was to come. The destruction of that ancient spire, the death of her mother and father, the suffering of her dear friend and love, and most of all, her own fate.

Ivalinne screamed out in agony, writhing in pain as these images were forced upon her. Reliving every moment of it, even though she had yet to experience any of it. Every second felt like an eternity as she cried out, begging for it to stop.

But it wouldn’t. Nails digging deeper into her flesh, body pressing harder against her own, the woman’s face looming over her, less than an inch away.

“It’s all. Your. Fault.”

[stained-carmine]

@vivetmuses​

"--- I love you. I really do. I will twist time itself; its very rules to be with you no matter what; I promise."

“Eli...” The young duchess could only stare at her, awestruck by the vow she had just made.

Head lowering, the girl’s heart ached at what she knew. The fate that awaited her, the intentions of that terrifying woman who sought to hurt them both, to drive them apart, and who may, in time, succeed in doing so.

It hurt. Knowing she was going to die. That in Eli’s time, she was already long dead. She was merely a blip on the cosmic radar, something so insignificant in the grand scheme of things. Something that wasn’t worth the love this girl gave her. She wasn’t worthy of it. She never would be. After all, she...

She was a ghost of the past. A remnant of a lost era. Nothing more than a fading memory.

Tears slid down her face as the pain rang throughout her entire body. Trembling hands clutched at her chest, the images forced into her mind by that woman, replaying in an endless loop as her words echoed in her head. With all she had, she’d suppress the despair she felt in her heart and calm her trembling hands. Taking a deep breath, she’d force a smile, as she lifted her head to lock crimson eyes with the immortal, this girl who confessed her love to her, and swore to change what was already written.

“Eli...” She said tenderly as she tried with all her might to hold back the tears that welled up in her eyes and threatened to overtake her. A single droplet slid down her cheek as she mustered all the courage she had to speak.

“You needn’t make such a promise.”

[stained-carmine]

With winter come and gone, spring once again dawned upon Aciernha. Snow melted away by the gentle warmth of the spring sun, the earth revitalized as life flourished once more, enveloping the land in a verdant green.

It had been over a year since Eliyah started his apprenticeship. Under his father’s tutelage, the boy had made quick progress towards succeeding his father’s seat as the head of the High Council. With any luck, he would soon acquire the position and achieve his goal. He made a promise to her after all, and he wasn’t about to break it now.

Following his father into what was once the home of his beloved friend. The boy would be assailed by memories. Visions of a time past, one he could never forget. One he never wanted to forget.

Eliyah stood in the inner courtyard of the Rozka’cer estate, face flushed as he fidgeted about nervously, awaiting his dear friend’s return. With nothing to do but wait, he would think back to the events that had left him in his current predicament.

“Ivalinne, wait!” The boy called out as he tried in vain to keep up with the spirited girl. “Hah...Please, be more careful...! If you run too fast you are liable to trip!” He pleaded as he stopped for a moment to try and catch his breath.

“Do not be so foolish, my balance is excellent!” The young duchess said as she spun around to face the boy, giving him a demonstration by twirling about before shooting him a smile.

“I would be more concerned about you, clumsy Eliyah~” She teased with a chuckle as she turned and continued to rush ahead of the boy.

“A-ah, Ivalinne, wait!” He shouted as he desperately chased after her.

“Was it not you who fell into the fountain of your own accord? Or you who fell from the tree when you tried to climb up after me? And let us not forget when you tripped upon the stairs and fell on your face!” She laughed as she approached the fountain that laid at the center of the garden.

“Th-that is true...b-but...! All of those that you have listed were directly because of you!” He objected as he finally caught up with the girl. “If it were not for you startling me, or climbing the tree, or urging me to make haste towards the manor...none of those things would have happened...!”

“What are you saying, Eliyah? You chose to follow after me! How is that my fault?” The young duchess huffed as she turned and pouted at the boy, hands placed upon her hips as she rebuked him for his objections.

“W-well, yes but...” The boy said as he scratched at the back of his head nervously, eyes darting about as he fidgeted slightly.

“Then we are in agreement, those were all your fault!” The girl cheered with a smile.

Eliyah merely gave a displeased groan and frown in response to Ivalinne’s teasing. He was used to it by this point, that was just how this unruly noble was. There was no point in fighting it or trying to get her to change. Knowing he would never win this argument, the boy resigned himself to defeat. Letting out a sigh, he’d concede the victory to the young duchess. “Yes, you are right, I should not blame you for the choices I made. That is not fair to you. Please, forgive me.” He said as he gave a small bow of his head.

“Precisely!” She cheered as she twirled around at the side of the fountain, happily humming a song as she danced about to her own tune. “Worry not, Eliyah, for there is nothing in this world that would ever change my opinion of you. Whether it be the words of another, or your own actions. If it is you, I would forgive even the most heinous of grievances.”

“Ivalinne, please...” Cheeks flushing faintly as his heart skipped a beat, the boy averted his gaze downward in an attempt to hide his embarrassment. While outward appearances might have suggested he disliked her teasing, seeing her smile like that, it warmed his heart. It had been over four year since he began frequenting the Rozka’cer gardens at his leisure. Before he knew it, the time he spent with her had become so precious to him.

With a graceful jump, the young duchess leapt up onto the edge of the fountain. Arms spread to ensure her balance was kept, she wobbled slightly, before a smile spread across her face once more. Carefully, the girl walked along the edge, still humming that same cheerful tune as before.

Hearing Ivalinne’s voice, Eliyah closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath as he took it all in. The warmth of the spring sun, the smell of the flowers, the cool and gentle breeze that blew through the garden, rustling the leaves on the trees, and most of all her voice as she sung that song. That beautiful, rich voice of hers that put his heart at ease whenever he heard it. The playful tone she held when she teased him, the raw emotion that was palpable whenever she raised her voice, and the tender way she’d call his name. Exhaling, he would lose himself in the melody, all doubt and worry faded from the boy’s mind as a smile appeared on his features. Reopening his eyes, he’d watch as she precariously danced about on the stone rim of the fountain. “It would be a shame if you fell.” He spoke up in a calm voice as he watched her performance with gentle eyes.

Turning back in the boy’s direction, she’d stare at him for a moment, her tune paused as she spun around to face him and address his concerns.

“As I told you previously, I have excellent bala—” However, the heel of one of her shoes missed its landing upon the stone, causing her stance to falter as she fell backwards into the fountain.

“Ah—!“ She let out a shocked gasp as she fell into the water with a loud splash, sending water flying high into the air.

“Ivalinne!” Eliyah called out as he rushed over to the side of the fountain, concerned for the girl’s safety.

Sitting there in the fountain, soaked from head to toe, the young duchess whimpered in humiliation as she shivered slightly. “C-cold...”

“Ahaha...I told you.” The boy couldn’t help but laugh at her predicament, after all. hadn’t she done the same when he had been on the receiving end? “Here, let me help you to your feet.” He said with a gentle smile as he leaned over the fountain edge and reached out to her, still chuckling softly to himself as he offered the girl his hand.

“...Hmph!” She huffed as she reached out to take his hand—only instead of letting him pull her out of the water, she’d pull back.

“Ah! Ivali—!“ Was all he could get out before he was yanked into the fountain, falling into the water with another loud splash. Wiping wet auburn locks out of his eyes, he’d turn towards the girl with a look of disbelief. “Why did you do that...?” He asked with an incredulous gaze.

“That is what you get for laughing at me!“ She snapped backed as she turned away from him with another irritated huff. Folding her arms across her chest, she pouted slightly, as if awaiting an apology before she’d look at him again.

Letting out an exasperated sigh, the boy reluctantly gave in to her silent demands. “I apologize...” It wasn’t like he took pleasure in seeing her fall, it was more of an instinctive reaction, seeing the girl claim so adamantly that her balance was excellent only to see her trip and fall into the fountain, it was as if her arrogant boasting had brought about her downfall, literally.

“You best be!” She said as she got up off the ground, wringing out her dress before turning to look down at the boy who still sat in the waters of the fountain.

“Are you planning to remain here? Or shall we make haste for the manor?” She asked, holding out a hand to the boy.

“Ah...” The boy blinked for a moment, looking at her palm before giving her a slow nod. “Yes, of course.” Reaching out, he took hold of her hand, rising to his feet as she pulled him up. Stepping out of the fountain, the pair began to make their way to the manor, never once letting go of each other’s hand.

Heaving out a sigh, Eliyah frowned softly. Due to Ivalinne, his clothes had been drenched. As he wasn’t home, he didn’t have a spare change of clothes available to him. So the young duchess, seeing an opportunity, used the situation to her advantage.

Lowering his gaze, his frown would broaden, turning into a disappointed scowl. Standing there in the inner courtyard alone, was Eliyah, donning one of the girl’s many extravagant dresses.

Cheeks flushing at the sight, he recalled being led into the manor by his friend. After evading the servants and once again making a mess of one of the many rooms that lined the vast corridors of the Rozka’cer estate, Ivalinne had stepped out of the room, saying she would return shortly with a set of dry clothes for him to wear. Little did he know what she was scheming. He wasn’t expecting her to return with one of her own dresses.

Staring at the dress she held out to him with a baffled expression, Eliyah’s cheeks slowly grew red as his brain struggled to process what exactly was afoot here. “I-Ivalinne...! What do you intend for me to do with...t-that...?” Face flushed, the boy looked the dress over in disbelief.

“Why, for you to wear it of course! We cannot have you catching a cold in those soaked clothes after all!” She cheered, almost too happily, as if she was delighting in this situation.

“Huh?” Was all the boy could mouth in response as he stared at her, mouth agape in astonishment at what she was suggesting.

“Whatever is the matter, dearest Eliyah~?” The young duchess said in a overly sweet tone as she chuckled at the boy’s reaction. “Does this not suit your tastes~?“

“O-o-of course not!” They boy practically screamed, face entirely red from merely imagining what was to come should he put the dress on. “I-I c-cannot wear a dress! I am a boy!” He protested frantically.

“Oh? Is that so?” She said with a hum, placing a finger to her lips as her eyes wandered off, pondering the matter breifly before turning her gaze back to the boy with a mischevious smile.

“But I always thought that you would look quite adorable in a dress~” She said in a teasing tone as she gave another girlish chuckle.

“I-Ivalinne, please!” He pleaded, heart pounding in his chest as he fidgeted nervously, eyes darting about with unease.

“Please?” She repeated, giving him a clueless look as she tilted her head to the side, before an epiphany would hit her. “Oh!”

“Do you perhaps want some assistance?” She asked gleefully as she set the dress off to the side before turning back to the boy.

“A-a-assistance?!” He repeated, eyes wide and mouth agape.

“Yes, assistance.” She affirmed as she approached him. “These garments are rather difficult to fasten correctly, and trying to properly tie a bow that is on your own body is nigh impossible! I often have to get one of the servants to aid me, lest Mother lecture me for my untidy appearance.”

As she closed the distance between them, Eliyah’s heart raced. Panic began to fill him as he took a step backwards. “I-Ivalinne, what are you doing—” With the girl practically upon him, he glanced about anxiously, unsure of what to do.

“Oh, but first we must remove those wet clothes of yours!” She said as she reached out and began to untie his ascot.

“Iva—!” He gasped as his heart skipped a beat. His thoughts were a blur as his mind spun. Beads of sweat rolled down his face as his whole body trembled. His heart felt like it would burst at any moment, his body filled to the brim with nervous energy. He felt like any second now, he would overheat and pass out. This was too much for him.

Ignorant of the state he was in, the young duchess continued. Once the ascot was undone, she pulled it free from his neck, tossing it aside before turning her attention back to the boy. Gaze lowering to his shirt, she began to undo the top buttons of the garment.

Unable to contain the frenzied emotions within him any longer, he acted.

“STOP!” He shouted, hands rising to prevent her from doing anything further.

The young duchess came to a halt as the boy cried out. Startled by his sudden assertiveness, she blinked a few times, unsure of how to respond at first. “...Eliyah...” She called his name softly, gaze turning to his face.

“That is enough! I-I can do the rest myself!” His face was bright red as he did his best to speak clearly.

The girl was silent for a moment as his words sank in. His hands still clutching her own, her arms lowered, her wrists sliding out of his grasp as she pulled away from him.

Eliyah heaved out heavy breaths as he tried to calm his racing heart. Lifting his head to look at her, he’d grimace. Ah...have I...? He thought as worry plagued him. Did he upset her? Did he scare her? He just wanted her to slow down. Biting down on his lip lightly, he averted his gaze downward. “Ivalinne I...I am sorry, I did not mean to shout at you...I just—” Before he could finish his apology, he was hit in face with a towel, presumably thrown by the young duchess before she stormed out of the room.

Left alone in silence, Eliyah gazed at the door with a pained expression. “Ivalinne...” He muttered as he lowered his head. Turning his gaze to the dress, he whimpered faintly. With no other alternatives, the boy slowly trudged over to the dress, picking it up and looking it over. Giving a frown and a sigh, he set it back down as he turned his focus to finishing the task that his friend had started.

Letting out a dejected sigh, the boy turned his gaze to the ground. “I wonder if she is mad at me...” Somber blue hues would stare at the empty space at his feet. I hope she does not plan to leave me here...

“I do not recall having a second daughter.” A man’s voice came from behind him, causing the boy to let out a yelp as he flinched. Spinning around, he was met with a tall man with black hair and brown eyes.

“D...Duke Rozka’cer!” The boy gasped, surprised to see the man. It wasn’t often he saw him, let alone spoke to the duke. He was a busy man after all. The Rozka’cer family was responsible for the entire city of Aciernha, an impressive feat considering the head of the household managed it all. As the boy’s mind bloomed with a mixture of panic and reverence, it occurred to him what the man had said, and the state he was presently in.

Cheeks flushing bright red, Eliyah shot a glance down at his current attire before turning his eyes back to the duke. “I-I-I...! I can explain—!” He frantically blurted out.

The raven haired man just chuckled in response. “I believe I have a good idea as to what happened, what with the trail of water I encountered on my way down here.” He said, kind brown eyes resting upon the boy. “So where is she? That daughter of mine.”

“I uh...I d-do not know...” Eliyah said hesitantly, a pained expression appearing on the boy’s face as he recalled when she had stormed out of the room and left him by his lonesome.

“Is that so? How strange, you two are practically inseparable. Has something happened?” Raising a hand to his chin, he pondered the matter, eyes wandering about the courtyard, seeing if she was nearby. After a few seconds, the tall man frowned, turning his attention back to the boy. “Did you perhaps have a disagreement?” He asked as his head tilted to the side slightly.

Eliyah could only lower his head as he bit his lip lightly in response to the duke’s inquiry.

“I see...” He said with a contemplative hum. “Well, I think all will be well if you apologize to her. I have to admit, she is a tad spoiled. Haha, that would be my doing, forgive me.” He said as he closed his eyes and gave a small, respectful bow of his head.

“Ah...N-no, it is fine. I am used to her behavior by now.” Eliyah said as he shook his head. “You do not need to apologize, Duke Rozka’cer.”

“Please, you have been coming here for six years Eliyah, you needn’t use such formalities with me.” The duke said as he held up his hand. “Anton is fine.” The man’s eyes softened as he gave the boy a warm smile.

“B-but...” Eliyah mumbled as he voiced his fragile opposition to the idea.

“You are here often enough that it feels as though you are my own child.” The duke said with a laugh.

“Ah...” The boy shifted nervously as the red that had by now faded from his cheeks returned. “Um...T-thank you sir...” He said as he fidgeted slightly, honored to be considered of such importance to the most respected man in all of Aciernha.

“I am merely stating fact, there is no need to thank me.” He said as he once again held his hand up to urge the boy not to be so formal with him. “I would have liked to have another child, so she would not be so lonely...but it seems fate has not seen it fit to bless us with such luck.” As Anton spoke, a somber look came over him. “Despite all our efforts, we have not had so much as a single success...” Falling silent, Anton gazed at the ground for a moment before shutting his eyes, as if he was troubled by something other than the topic at hand. Letting out a solemn sigh, he turned brown orbs back to the boy. “My apologies, it seems I have soured the mood. It was not my intention to do so.”

“Ah, N-no, it is all right.” Eliyah said as he shook his head. He was already down due to prior events, so it’s not like hearing this had ruined his day, though he did feel sorry for the duke. To want something so badly and to be denied it by the universe itself, it must have been awful. “It is sad...” He mumbled as azure hues reflected the man’s pain. “B-but—” He piped up, only to lose his grip on his confidence. Taking a deep breath, he nodded to himself faintly. “Even so, you do have Ivalinne. It is unfortunate that you have not been able to have any other children...but that just makes the one you have all the more important.”

Anton gazed at the boy for a moment in awe of those words, that this boy had said something so profound. After the surprise faded, the duke’s gaze softened as he gave the boy a smile. “Right you are, Eliyah.” He said as he pushed the sadness out of his mind. With a small sigh of relief, he’d raised a large hand to pat the boy on the head. “Thank you for being her friend and staying by her side. I sometimes worry about her, that she has become too accustomed to solitude. It is not healthy to isolate yourself from others. We need to rely upon one another to thrive. To have someone to depend upon, to have a foundation to fall back on...it is of the utmost importance. We must trust and support each other. By sharing our burdens, they become easier to shoulder. A lone man trying to stand on his own will be crushed under the pressure. The weight of the world is too much for any one person to bear, that is certain.” Adjusting his posture, he leaned against the large tree that stood at the center of the terrace. “When we are surrounded by those who we hold dear, their feelings strengthen us. The people that are precious to us empower us, they push us to strive to be the best we can be. With their love, there is nothing that we cannot achieve.”

Eliyah could only stare at the duke in awe of the wisdom he imparted. He truly was an admirable man, the boy thought. After noticing the silence that began to settle upon them, Eliyah would nervously speak up. “Am...am I really the only friend she has? Surely there must be others with whom she spends her time with, yes?” It was something that he had been wondering for a while now. At first he didn’t really pay it much mind—that he had never seen any other children playing with Ivalinne. He had merely thought that he had always missed them—that they were just never here when he happened to visit, but as he spent more and more time with the young duchess he began to wonder. Was he the only one she had?

Anton closed his eyes as he gave the boy a solemn nod. “Indeed you are. She...did not get along with the other children...” The duke said as he raised a hand to his chin. “She did not seem bothered by it, but it must have hurt her...” Donning a frown, his eyes would narrow slightly. Letting out a sigh, he turned his gaze towards the merchant’s son. “Which is why I am so glad that the two of you get along so well.” Straightening his posture, he smiled at the boy. “Please, continue to be there for her, no matter what may come to pass. Having someone that will always be by your side, that will never abandon you in your time of need, that will stay with you through all the hardships that life will undoubtedly put you through...Someone that will weather the storm and never let go...that is something invaluable...”

Eliyah was hesitant at first, unsure of what to say to the man. Taking a moment to let the duke’s words sink in, the visage of his dear friend appeared in his mind. Her smile, her laugh, how happy she seemed when they were together, and the warmth he felt when he was with her. The answer was clear to him. There was no question—no doubt that clouded his vision—just the unwavering resolve and determination, the undeniable feelings held within his heart. Lifting his head to lock gazes with the man, azure hues shone with certainty. “Yes, of course! I shall always be at her side, no matter what!”

Anton just smiled at him gently, pleased with the boy’s answer. “Thank you Eliyah.” The duke said as he closed his eyes and let out a relieved exhale. Turning to look behind him for a moment, he reached a hand into his pocket, withdrawing an ornate pocket watch with a rose emblem on its lid—the crest of the Rozka’cer family. Pressing the mechanism, the watch opened with a soft click. As he silently gazed at the time displayed on its face, the rhythmic ticking of the watch could be faintly heard by the boy. With another soft exhale, Anton gently closed the watch and returned it to its place. “I believe that is enough discussion for now. There are matters to attend to, after all.”

“Ah? You will be departing then?” The boy asked curiously. “Well then, it was a pleasure to speak with you Duke Rozka—” Catching himself, he’d stop for a moment as he gathered the courage to respect the man’s earlier request. “...A-Anton...“ He said nervously, a hint of red in his cheeks. It felt strange to him, to refer to the duke so casually, but it would be rude to refuse his wishes on the matter.

“Do you plan to stay here?” The tall man asked with a small frown.

“Eh...? What do you mean? Should I not wait for Ivalinne’s return?” Eliyah said, a little confused by what the man was trying to say.

“Rather, do you plan to stay here as you currently are?” He said as he gestured to the boy’s attire, an amused smile sliding onto the duke’s face.

“As I currently...” Eliyah stared at the man with a clueless expression for a moment, before turning his gaze downward with Anton’s gesture. Resting his eyes upon the embellished frills of the dress, his face went red. Due to the heavy subject matter they had been discussing, he had completely forgotten that he was currently wearing one of Ivalinne’s dresses.

Face flushed with embarrassment, all he could do in response was stammer incomprehensibly.

The duke couldn’t help but let out a laugh at the boy’s animated reaction. “Come, I believe I can find something more suitable for you to wear. There should be some of my old clothing somewhere. After all, I doubt you wish to return home dressed like that.” He said as he urged the boy to follow him. Pausing for a moment, the man’s smile faded as he gave a weak, nervous laugh and scratched the back of his neck. “...Or be found by my wife wearing one of our daughter’s dresses.”

Eliyah’s expression shifted into an uneasy and fearful panic as he recalled the last time that the duchess had caught him in the manor. He came to a halt, hesitant to step foot inside out of fear of the woman’s explosive temper.

Anton, noticing his reluctance, turned back to face the boy with a look of concern. Realizing what was on his mind, the man let out a small sigh. “All shall be well, Eliyah. As long as you are in my care, my wife will not utter a single word of protest. If I welcome you inside, she may not overturn my decision.” He said with a reassuring smile as he placed a hand on the boy’s shoulder.

“Ah...A-are you sure it is o-okay...?” He stammered in response, still unsure and afraid of the woman’s ire.

“Absolutely. You are always welcome in my home Eliyah. After all, how could I refuse my daughter’s dearest friend?” Removing his hand from the boy’s shoulder, he’d step inside. “Come now, before any of the servants catch wind of this situation. I would hate for them to gossip at your expense.”

The boy’s heart skipped a beat at those words, cheeks flushing faintly at the thought. I....I am her dearest friend...? He thought as he raised a hand to his face in embarrassment. His heart leapt at those words, spirits lifted by that sentiment. After a moment to calm the sense of euphoria that those words brought him, he turned his attention back to the duke, giving him a nod as he stepped inside. “Please, lead the way.”

Stepping into the late Duke’s study, Eliyah let out hushed sigh as he awoke from his reverie of the past. Lifting a sullen gaze to his surroundings, his eyes were drawn to the large tree branch that had crashed through the window overlooking the inner courtyard of the estate. A recent windstorm had broken off the branch and driven it into the study window, breaking the pane and allowing for the elements to reach the interior of the manor.

“All right, secure anything that is at risk of receiving water damage. Some of these tomes are priceless. Duke Rozka’cer had a hobby of collecting rare and valuable books, it would be a shame to see them ruined by some ill-timed misfortune.“ Said the head of the merchant’s guild—Eliyah’s father—as he began to assess the damage. As people began to mobilize, the crunching of the glass that littered the floor could be heard. “Be careful, there is glass everywhere.” The man said as he glanced around. Turning his gaze towards his son, he’d call out to him. “Eliyah, come over here.”

“Yes father.” He said as he stepped further into the room. Azure hues wandered over to the window, gazing out into the courtyard where he had encountered the Duke Rozka’cer three years prior.

Recalling the things that had been said on that day, a somber light reflected in the boy’s eyes. No matter what... Placing a hand upon the glass, he’d think back to the oath he had made to the man. The man who was no longer here. Lost to an unforeseen tragedy, just like the subject of that promise.

I can no longer be by her side... His heart sank at the thought, that he would never again be able to smile and laugh with her as they once did. That he would never lay eyes upon her beautiful visage and never again lock eyes with her crimson hues. Never to hear her voice, never to feel her touch, to never again experience the immeasurable joy that each moment spent with her brought him.

This summer, it would be three years. Three years without her by his side. Three years spent trying to honor the promise he made to her on that day, three days prior to her death.

Each day had been a struggle. A constant battle to keep afloat. To not drown in the sadness that consumed him every waking moment since her passing. The wound inflicted upon his heart felt as fresh as the day it was dealt to him, the pain still just as strong even now. They say time heals all wounds, but he was starting to doubt the validity of that statement. When would his heart begin to mend? When would the pain lessen? When would life become bearable without her by his side? He didn’t know. All he could do was to keep moving forward. If not for himself, then for her.

Turning his gaze down to the desk, azure eyes wandered over its surface, pausing as they came to a familiar looking pocket watch. One like the one the late Duke Rozka’cer had on his person that day. Eyes lowered for a moment in sorrow before he let out a soft sigh and began to assess the damages to the books that sat on top of, and were contained within the desk.

As he pulled out one of the drawers contents, he noticed something strange about it. That the drawer wasn’t as deep as it appeared to be. Upon further inspection, the boy found a small indentation, and upon fiddling with it, found there to be a wooden panel added into the drawer that when fully extended, could be slid back to reveal hidden contents. A false bottom...? Why would the Duke need such a thing? He wondered as he slid the panel back and pulled out an unlabeled notebook. Flipping through the pages, he’d find it to be a journal, filled with the man’s concerns over the future of both his city and his family. Inside were detailed notes that reported the findings of an individual hired by the duke to gather information on various parties that could either become allies, or potential enemies to the Rozka’cer Dukedom.

As he flipped through the notebook, he’d catch a glimpse of a familiar name—Cyril of Falorre. Lips curling into a scowl, the boy glanced over the notes left behind by the late Duke Rozka’cer.

Eyes went wide with disbelief as he read the contents of the entry. The Duke’s suspicions regarding the Falorre house, his belief that the whole thing was too neat, that something wasn’t right, and the information obtained from the informant that they had hired to look into Falorre prior to the engagement. If the Duke suspected foul play, then why did he not act...?! Eliyah’s thoughts shouted with outrage as his hands trembled slightly. If you had thought that there was foul play you should have—

“Eliyah, what are you doing? This is no time to be reading. Just pack up what can be salvaged. We shall move it to the guild until the window is repaired. If it is too badly damaged by the water, then put it aside to be disposed of. It is unfortunate, but that is a fact of life.” Lifting up a box of salvageable books, the man carried it out of the room. The other workers followed suit as they cleared away box after box and stepped out into the halls once more.

“Ah, yes Father.” Eliyah mouthed in response to the man as he looked up from the journal in his hands. Turning his gaze back down to the notebook, he’d don a pained grimace as he quickly skimmed through the remainder of the entry. Anton...if only you had acted... Sorrowful blue stared at the words upon the page. Your suspicions were well founded. I would expect no less from you...but letting Ivalinne wed that foul man? What were you thinking? Letting out a sigh, the boy closed the journal and set it down upon the desk.

Packing up the last of the books, Eliyah heaved out a sigh as he lifted his head to gaze out into the inner courtyard one last time. Heart aching with the pain of lingering memories, he frowned. Why did it have to be this way? Why did things have to happen the way they did? His mind began to run through possibilities, alternate fates that could have been but were not. If that wedding had not happened to begin with, if she had not been in that place, might she have lived past that day? He wondered. Head lowering, he averted his eyes away from the courtyard. ...There is no point in thinking of such things... Letting out a heavy sigh, he pushed those depressing thoughts from his mind. Taking hold of the final box, he readied to depart.

As he was about to lift up the box and leave the room, the rose lidded pocket watch would capture his gaze. Pausing, he set the box back down upon the desk. Reaching over, he took the watch in his hand. Pushing down on the mechanism, the watch would open with a soft click. Just like on that day, the gentle ticking filled the air and brought sound to the silence that surrounded him.

“...Ivalinne...” He uttered her name softly as he stared at the hands of the watch as they made their rhythmic revolution. After several seconds of still silence, with only the sound of the ticking watch to accompany his thoughts, he closed his eyes. As if he had taken a moment to honor the dead with an unspoken prayer, the boy reopened his eyes—azure hues shining with an unwavering resolve. Gently closing the lid, Eliyah slipped the watch into his pocket.

Packing up the journal of the late Duke Rozka’cer, Eliyah took hold of the box and exited the room, making his way out of the now lifeless manor. No longer would these halls be filled with the bustling sounds of footsteps of the servants that scoured the halls in search of their master’s unruly daughter. No longer would the loud clacking of running heels come before that girl’s boisterous shouting, and no more would banquets be held in the grand ballroom towards the rear of the estate. These halls were empty, and they would remain that way for years to come, only haunted by the memories of the past held by this boy who once spent his days at the side of that girl who he loved with all his heart.

[stained-carmine]

Crimson eyes flung open as the young duchess woke from what seemed like a nightmare without end. Sitting up swiftly, she heaved out heavy breaths, heart still racing from the terror she felt when staring into that woman’s eyes.

“...What was...” Realizing she was no longer in the grasps of that monster, she’d glance about quickly. She was in her room, tucked into her bed the same as she was every night. Once she made sure that woman was nowhere to be seen, Ivalinne would cautiously crawl out of bed.

As she strode past the mirror in her room, she’d notice something strange, causing the girl to come to a halt. Stepping closer, she’d peer into her own reflection as she rose a hand to touch her cheek—where that terrifying woman had dug her nails into the girl.

—Except there was nothing there. No blood, no scratches, nothing. Her skin was undamaged, with not even a mark to indicate anything had happened. ...Huh? Did she not dig her nails into my face...? Is it...Was it merely a dream?

Remembering the horrifying images that had been forced into her mind, the young duchess winced as she bit her lip lightly. But then what were those images? She thought, head lowering as she recalled the final ones. The scene of her own demise.

“What is going on...?” She muttered, a hand clutching a throbbing head. She didn’t understand it, it was all so confusing to her. Who was that woman? Why did she show her these things? Why did she tell her that—

“Wait! Eli!” Recalling the woman’s final words to her, the young duchess let out a gasp. Wasting no time, she sprung into action. The door to her room, flung open as the girl dashed into the hallway, running as fast as she could.

“Please, let me make it in time...! I need to warn Eli of—” She’d come to an abrupt halt, a hand clutching at her chest as she winced in illusory pain. That woman’s words to her would surface in her mind.

     ‘The reason why I’ve done this to you, it’s simple really.’

     ‘That little girlfriend of yours, Eli was it?‘

     ‘I'm going to make her kill me!‘

     ‘She cares for you deeply, you know.’

     ‘After all, she did offer to kill that bastard for you.’

     ‘I'm going to have her kill me. Why you ask? Well, that's simple...’

The young duchess clenched her teeth as she began to tremble. Tears welled up in the corners of her eyes as pain wracked her heart. “Eli...”

It was then that a blast could be heard further down the hall. The building shook as the explosion went off, causing small fragments of loose stone to crumble to the floor.

Turning a horrified gaze in the direction of the commotion, Ivalinne’s heart sank. “...No...!” Despite the terror that shook her body and the fear that clutched her heart, the young duchess once again began running. Not away from the blast, but towards it, towards her dear friend who was in danger from a threat she didn’t know of.

“Please...! Let it not be too late...!“

[stained-carmine]

Darkness clouded his vision, mind hazy as he lulled in and out of sleep. Unable to distinguish anything in the fog that settled upon him. Slowly, his consciousness faded.

...

“Eliyah...Eliyah!” The familiar voice of his friend rang out as the young duchess violently shook him from his slumber.

“Ah...Ivalinne...is something wrong? Why are you shaking me so?” He asked as he rubbed his eyes. Sitting himself up, he gazed around, surveying his surroundings. He found himself and his dear friend sitting amidst a rose garden, surrounded by rich red flowers. Turning his attention to the girl who sat by his side, he gazed upon her sweet smile, a warmth filling his heart. A feeling that somehow felt like something that he missed dearly for some reason.

“Eliyah look!” Ivalinne beamed as she held out clasped hands, pulling them apart to reveal a crimson butterfly sitting upon her palm. “Is it not beautiful?” She said with a cheerful laugh. “One of father’s books said these butterflies are native to the region around Sekostra! They get their red coloring from the red flowers they feed off of!” The butterfly fluttered about, flying around the girl—to which she watched with awe—before once more resting upon the noble’s palm.

“Hehe~ I think it likes me!” Her smile captivated the boy, who merely gave her a warm smile in return as he nodded. “I wonder what it is doing...so far from it’s home...”

“Perhaps the wind led it astray and it got lost?” The boy responded as he gazed down at the red and black monarch.

“I hope it will be okay, that it will be able to find its way back.” She said as the butterfly’s wings gently moved in and out.

“I am sure it will, Ivalinne.” The boy said with a soft smile as he stared at his friend, who gave a girlish chuckle in response.

The red and black butterfly fluttered its wings and lifted itself into the air. “Ah...” Ivalinne mouthed as she watched the butterfly depart with a regretful sadness in her eyes. “It is gone...” Her tone was somber as she lowered her gaze.

“Do not be sad Ivalinne, you got to see something so beautiful that you would not have been able to see otherwise.” Eliyah said in a reassuring tone as he watched the insect depart before turning back in her direction.

Only to see she was gone.

“...Ivalinne?” A sense of dread loomed over him as glanced about, desperately trying to locate the girl. “Ivalinne? Where are you?” Rising to his feet, the boy spun around to see if she was behind him, only to be met with nothing but a slowly encroaching darkness and a haze which crept ever closer.

“Ivalinne?!” He called out as he began to move, running about, frantically searching for his friend. All around him, the roses that filled the garden began to wither, the color draining from them, turning them black. The fog growing thicker with every step and the darkness growing stronger with each passing second. Soon enough, even the garden itself was swallowed up by the dark, leaving the boy alone.

“Ivalinne...” He muttered softly as his legs gave way and he fell to the floor. Muffled sobs were the only sound to be heard, echoing in the emptiness that surrounded him, as tears began to roll down his cheeks.

Yes. This is reality.

No longer is she here, by my side.

...No! I do not want this!

I do not want to let her go!

Gathering all the courage he could muster, he lifted his head, and with a deep breath, he screamed her name with all his might.

...Only to be jolted awake from his slumber.

The boy gasped for air, eyes wide in terror as he slowly regained his senses. A dream, vivid and palpable, indistinguishable from reality until consciousness shattered it.

As his heart slowed and his breathing returned to normal, it dawned upon him—the truth.

Ivalinne was gone from this world.

The only place he could see her now, the only placed she remained, was within his dreams and memories. Never again would he hear her voice, never again would he see her face, never again would he feel her touch.

Face contorted in illusory pain, a pain so great it consumed his entire being, he grimaced as tears welled up in his eyes. Confronted with an unbearable reality, all he could do is cry as he softly spoke her name.

“...Ivalinne...”

[stained-carmine]

((A little over a month ago I did this meme. I received one for Reiko and one for Ivalinne. Now some might have noticed that I analyzed the lyrics for Reiko’s, but not for Ivalinne’s. That was entirely on purpose. Now that her story has been completed, I will give you the analysis I purposefully left out due to the spoilers it had for her story and the scenes it inspired in the latter half of the story.))

Everytime you kissed me I trembled like a child

((This inspired the kiss between Ivalinne and Eliyah in Part 8, The Feelings that Connect our Hearts.))

Gathering the roses We sang for the hope

((While there was never any singing scene, this did inspire the dance the two had in Part 7, A Taste of Freedom. It also symbolizes all the memories they made together.))

Your very voice is in my heartbeat Sweeter than my dream We were there in everlasting bloom

((This pertains to Eliyah, and how he will never forget the sound of her voice. The time of seemingly endless peace they shared.))

Roses die The secret is inside the pain

Winds are high up on the hill I cannot hear you Come and hold me close I'm shivering cold in the heart of rain Darkness falls, I'm calling for the dawn

((The devastation of Eliyah’s loss, and his struggle to accept that Ivalinne is gone.))

Silver dishes for the memories for the days gone by

((Intent to keep the promise he made to her, to never forget the time they spent together. Eliyah honors her memory by moving forward and doing all that he can for the city that was so dear to her. He regularly visits her grave, and can be found there, talking as if to her.))

Singing for the promises Tomorrow may bring

((Promises of the future, lost to the whims of fate. Now, he tries to honor what he swore to her that night.))

I harbour all the old affection Roses of the past

((Even if she’s no longer here with him, he will always love her and treasure the memories they made together.))

Darkness falls, and summer will be gone

((Regardless, time moves on.))

Joys of the daylight Shadows of the starlight Everything was sweet by your side, my love

((Her memory kept alive in his heart, he refuses to forget.))

Ruby tears have come to me for your last words

Now let my happiness sing inside my dream

((Now the only place he can see her.))

Everytime you kissed me My heart was in such pain Gathering the roses We sang of the grief Your very voice is in my heartbeat Sweeter than despair We were there, in everlasting bloom

Underneath the stars Shaded by the flowers Kiss me in the summer day gloom, my love You are all my pleasure, my hope and my song I will be here dreaming in the past Until you come Until we close our eyes

[stained-carmine]

As her consciousness returned to her, the young duchess slowly opened her eyes, gazing up at a monochrome sky.

Her body ached with a dull, numbing pain as her senses gradually returned to her. All around her was silent, while all above her was grey. Dust lingered in the air, giving the world a hazy filter. With raspy, heaved breaths, she turned her head to the side, gazing upon her surroundings with glassy eyes.

All around her was rock and rubble, remnants of the ancient spire that had once stood as a monument to civilizations of the past, now nothing more than ruins, debris strewn across the landscape haphazardly. “...What happened...? Where am I...?” As she drew in air, she felt a throbbing pain within her chest, causing the young noble to let out a grunt of pain.

As she tried to sort through her muddled memories with a clouded mind, she recalled the last few moments before she had lost consciousness. Screaming her objections to the marriage her parents had arranged to a man she couldn’t stand, Cyril of Falorre. Unable to play along with the union any longer, Ivalinne had let her bottled emotions loose, shouting her rejection of this reality—this future which had been chosen for her without her consent—for all to hear. She had rebelled, she had fought back against what fate had decided for her. Taking a stand against the injustice of being forced to marry a man she didn’t love, she let the fires of rage that she held within her soul burn bright.

Had she been successful? Had the wedding been canceled? Could she return to her life in Aciernha, where she spent her days happily playing with Eliyah in the gardens? Ivalinne scanned her surroundings, looking for signs of anyone else who might be in the vicinity. “Mother...?” She called out, cutting through the silence with her words. As the echo of her own voice faded, she listened carefully for an answer, but nothing came. “Mother? Where are you? Agh!”

As Ivalinne attempted to roll onto her side, she was met with resistance—something holding her in place, not allowing to move from the spot where she laid. Sharp pain wracked her body, originating from her chest. Reflexively, she reached a hand to her torso, placing her palm upon it.

Wet. Her right hand, which she had placed upon her chest instinctively, to clutch at the source of her pain, was met with the dampened silk of her wedding dress. Her mind, which had been slowly working to process her current situation, came to an abrupt halt when her hand made contact with her soaked gown, emptying of all thoughts.

What is...? She removed her palm from her torso, bringing her hand before her face to gaze upon it.

Red. Her palm was drenched in a rich, sickly crimson—the same color as her irises. Her hand trembled as she stared in disbelief. Her mind began to spin as dread encroached upon her thoughts. Slowly, she craned her neck, fighting against the pain that accompanied every move she made, she lowered her gaze towards her chest.

Ivalinne’s eyes widened in horror at the sight she was faced with. There, at the source of her pain, was an iron rod, protruding straight through her chest.

“Ah...aah...!” Panic ignited within her like a wildfire, consuming all. Her entire body trembled violently as the full force of reality hit her all at once. “No...! No!” The young duchess whimpered as she grasped at the iron rod desperately, as if she wanted the scene her eyes witnessed to be a lie. Her hands frantically clutched at the rod, sliding along it to its origin, to the hole that it had made when it had pierced through her body.

“Aah...!” Tears streamed down her face as she felt the undeniable proof that this was no illusion, that it wasn’t just some terrifying dream from which she’d be able to wake. She wished with all her heart, that in a moment she would open her eyes, freed from this nightmare, lying safely in her bed, unharmed. That everything would be all right and she would just go back to her idyllic life as if none of this had ever happened. But no matter how much she prayed, how much she begged and pleaded, nothing would change. No, this was reality. Unforgiving, uncaring, reality.

Unable to contain the emotions which swelled up inside her heart, she cried out. Fear shook her body relentlessly as the gravity of her predicament dawned upon her. Sorrow filled the tears that ceaselessly flowed from her crimson eyes. Desperation fueled a worthless struggle as she clawed at the large slab of stone that she laid upon, pinned like a butterfly in a glass box.

“Mother! Father! Where are you...?! Someone, please! Help! Please...anyone! If anyone can hear me....PLEASE!” She shouted as loud as she could, only to be met with an eerie silence. “SOMEONE PLEASE!” Agony resounded as she wailed hopelessly, her pleas devolving into sobs as she reached out pointlessly, praying that someone would come. That someone would appear to save her, to rescue her. That this wasn’t the end, that this wasn’t it for her. “Please...I do not want to die here! Not like this...!” Her flailing slowed as she felt the strength fade from her. Blood seeped out of her, faster and faster with each panicked motion. Sickly crimson pooled beneath her as she writhed. Pain filled her entire being, drowning out her thoughts and numbing her senses.  “I...I do not...want to die...!” She gasped between screams as it slowly became harder and harder to speak. Blood bubbled forth to trickle down her lip as her lungs filled with fluid and collapsed, causing the girl to choke on her own blood. Her voice soon after died down as she devolved into weak sobs. “I cannot die here...! I need to live...! I need to...”

The tears that had once streamed down her face furiously, came to a gradual halt as the light faded from her eyes. “I...cannot die....I need to...keep my...promise...” Her arms fell to her sides, going limp, as her body ceased to move. As a haze began to settle upon her mind, the face of her dear friend, her love, appeared in her mind. “...Eli...yah...” Clinging to the memory of his smile, even as her vision succumbed to darkness and her thoughts receded into nothingness, the final moments of her consciousness, spent focused on that boy, who she loved so dearly, and who loved her just as much. Ivalinne’s breathing slowed to a halt and her heart ceased to beat. The embers of her soul extinguished.

With the last life lost amidst the ruins, all went silent. No longer were there cries of pain and sorrow, agony and despair. No more did voices call out to illusory saviors, praying to be saved from this cruel twist of fate. All was still. Serene, calm, peaceful.

As if the heavens themselves were crying out in anguish, rain began to fall upon the land, soaking the earth and washing away the blood of those whose lives were lost in this tragedy. Their futures stolen, the ripples of these events would surely be felt for years to come as each city mourned the loss of their leaders, left to pick up the shattered pieces of a broken dream of unity and everlasting peace.

[stained-carmine]

With summer drawing to a close, temperatures cooling and the days growing shorter, autumn was soon to come to Aciernha, filling the streets with vibrant colors as the leaves changed and fell, marking a steady progression towards winter.

For now though, the last days of summer remained as September began.

Since losing his friend, Eliyah had merely gone through the motions of living. Distraught by the loss of his first love, the boy had sunk into a deep depression.

Today he was at the guild, shadowing his father with the hopes of inheriting his father’s position. Next year he would turn 16, marking the start of his apprenticeship and his debut into the working world. No longer a child, he would be forced to grow up and act the part of an adult, whether he wanted to or not. Indifferent to his feelings, time continued to march onward.

Sent on errands to return some documents to the storeroom, the boy heaved the large pile of books he’d been carrying onto their corresponding shelf. With a heavy sigh, he dusted himself off before turning to head back to his father’s office.

As he began to make his way up the stairs, he heard a slightly familiar jovial voice. Turning in its direction, the boy would be met with the sight of two vaguely familiar faces. One cheery and the other dreary.

Eliyah gazed at them with dull eyes. Those are the men who were... Flashes of memory appeared in his mind, of the day he had raced over to the Rozka’cer manor, frightened of the rumors he had heard from these two men. Rumors that said she was to marry an Ardenian noble.

The boy clenched his fists and bit his lip as he trembled faintly. They had been right in their assumptions. Ivalinne was to be married, to leave this city, and to become the first queen of the royal family. Or she was, had that disaster not occurred. Pain wracked the boy’s heart as he recalled crying in her arms, all of his energy spent to make it to the Rozka’cer estate as fast as he could to make sure she was all right, that the duke at the banquet hadn’t—

As it clicked in his mind, his reflexive anger faded for a moment. So the duke who tried to accost her at the banquet...that was Falorre? The visage of that foul man appeared in his mind, garnering a flicker of disgust in his eyes as he averted them to glare at the ground.

“Did you hear?” The energetic man asked his friend as he leaned on the older man’s desk rather intrusively.

“What now you goddamn rumormonger.” The seated man said with a snarl and a scowl.

“As grumpy as ever I see!” He cheered with a laugh at the other man’s perpetually sour mood. “It’s that kid that showed up recently. He’s apparently the heir to the House of Arledge.”

“Oh, ‘im. Alexander was it? Find it ‘ard to believe that he’s legitimate.” The man returned his attention to his paperwork, not interested in whatever it was his friend had to say. “Wasn’t Arledge’s wife passed on? Didn’t think that spacey bastard remarried.”

“He didn’t, which makes this so scandalous!” A wide grin on his face, the gossiper continued. “Arledge must have had a mistress!”

“How old is this Alexander kid again?” The cranky man glanced up from his work as he spoke.

“18 or so? Not quite sure exactly.” The man donned a small frown as he gave an exaggerated shrug.

“Damned Arledge, ain’t no better than the rest of ‘em, ‘is wife would ‘ave still been kickin’ then.”

“I know right?! Wouldn’t have expected that airhead of all people to be getting some on the side!” Another chuckle as the jovial man sat on the desk.

“Get yer ass off my workspace you ‘alf-wit.” The older one grumbled. “So what about ‘im? Surely you of all people wouldn’t ’ave come if you didn’t ‘ave somethin’ more than some noble’s inability to keep it in ‘is pants.”

“Oh, you know me so well!” The first cheered. “Alexander Arledge—or rather Alexander Arden, was just crowned as Arden’s first king!”

“You serious? They’re letting that suspicious brat become their first king?” The gloomy man looked surprised for once, giving his co-worker an incredulous look.

“Arledge confirmed him, that he slept with the boy’s mother around the time, so he’s legitimate.” As if remembering something he’d forgot, the cheerful man piped up again. “Oh, that mistress of his claims she was bribed to keep the child a secret from Arledge. Guess who she says was paying her to keep her mouth shut!” His tone giddy and eyes full of excitement, he eagerly awaited his friend’s answer.

“Piss off, you know I hate guessin’ games.” Another scowl creased the melancholic man’s face as he shrugged the question off.

“Cyril of Falorre!”

Hearing that name, the name of the man who had taken Ivalinne away from him, Eliyah’s eyes widened as his heart ached with anger and pain. That man...!

“Wait, are you sayin’ that noble that was to marry the Rozka’cer’s daughter knew the House of Arledge had an ‘eir and—” He stopped, as if he had already figured out the answer to the question he was about to ask. “That connivin’ bastard...”

“I’m sure if the late Duke—may his soul rest in peace—had known of Arledge’s heir, he would have never chosen Falorre to be his daughter’s suitor.”

Eliyah’s heart skipped a beat at the man’s words and the implications they carried. You mean to say... The gears turning in the boy’s head as the realization dawned upon him. That man...that Cyril of Falorre...he orchestrated everything so that he would be the only candidate for Ivalinne to marry?! Anger rose within the boy as he began to tremble. He manipulated things so that Ivalinne would have no choice but to marry him...! Outraged at the truth that had been revealed to him, Eliyah turned away from the two merchants and hurried up the stairs.

He is the reason....the reason for all of this! If Ivalinne had not been made to marry him...! The boy gnashed his teeth as he tried to contain the flurry of emotions that raged within his heart. If it was not for that wretched man...! She would not have— Tears welled up in the corners of his eyes as her smiling face appeared in his mind. ...She would not have died!

The flame sparked by this revelation burned fiercely within him, filling him with a sense of duty and determination.

I swear to you Ivalinne, that I shall expose all of that man’s evils. Maybe in this way, I can bring your soul peace...

With this goal in mind, the path to the future cleared of the fog which had settled upon it over the last few months, he strode forward.

I will not falter! I will keep the promise I made to you, dearest Ivalinne! I will not let my sorrow hold me back. I will fight against this despair—this cruel world which saw fit to take you away—I will not let it win!

Soul ablaze with a fiery resolve, he lifted his head to face fate proudly, intent to honor the vow he’d made to her on that day. He wouldn’t give in, not to sadness, not to anger, not to the pressure that society would surely place upon him nor the weight of the responsibilities he’d have to bear. Nothing would stop him from uncovering the truth.