Disclaimer: I don't own HOTD and Tales of Graces f they are the rightful property of Shoji Sato, Daisuke Sato, Namco Bandai and Namco Tales studio.
Italics are thoughts
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
Act 1 Overture to DEAD part 1: Strangers in a strange land
(Location: Lhant manor Lhant Windor country territory Ephinea)
Asbel Lhant stood seated on the desk of his study working on a long day basis of paperwork. As the new lord of Lhant it was now his duty to work for the people of the town and any kind of job that includes the town's economic and politics both inside and outside. It was a never ending job and quite honestly it was very hard and tiring at least that's what the young red head thinks. He has only been lord for a year and he has seen the lengths and its toughness the position has, this make him believe if being lord of a town is this tough then he didn't wanted to know how tough must be to be king of the entire Windor kingdom. A smiled spread his lips while filling some of the papers thinking that Richard must be having a worse time than himself with doing the daily business. Watching over an entire kingdom was no walk in the park and no laughing matter either. The last thought made him think that he was lucky he will choose lord than king any day.
The nineteen year old lord gave a sigh probably tiring of all the paperwork he has to fill. He still couldn't believe how much times flies it didn't looked long when he first return to Lhant as a knight and everything else happens. Reuniting with Sophie after thinking she was dead, his awkward reunion with Cheria to his exile from the town by his younger brother Hubert. Then all the events that followed, reuniting with Richard, helping him claim his throne from his power hungry uncle Arch Duke Cedric, to finding out Richard was possessed leading towards his big sudden change. His quest for power in stealing the eleth of the valkine cryas from all three stronghold countries, everything follow with arriving to the planet of Telos Astue, meeting Emaurude finding out that she was really a humanoid just like Sophie which she created with the purpose of destroying the being known as Lambda and he was the one in possession of Richard's body.
Their journey to the Lastalia in Gardia Shaft that lead to the final battle against Lambda, resulting with saving his friend from the being and ending up becoming its new host to prevent Sophie from sacrificing herself in order to eradicate the being. Now here he was three days after their journey to Fodra after stopping the Fodra queen from trying to bring destruction to human kind. After bonding with Lambda the being volunteer to help Fodra watch over the world so that one day, maybe she can learn to trust humans and give them a chance the same way he was taught by Asbel to believe. Now everything has gone back to normal very peaceful times were ahead indeed. He adopted Sophie welcoming her to the Lhant family and he was planning to propose to his childhood friend Cheria, since he basically asked her to come live with him. Best of all Sophie became a real live human shattering her fear of being left behind because she used to be a humanoid she couldn't grow old, it was thank to the little queen.
Another sigh escaped from his mouth how he wanted this to end. He found out the worst part of being lord the crazy paperwork and the worst part that he couldn't appoint anyone to fill in for his place. Any documents directed to him have to be sing by him no one else. Now it will be a good time if a situation comes up like a monster attack or a visit, anything to get him out of this stinky paperwork. He still has to sign the new petition for increase of salary of all workers and only that will take him hours to sing simply because there way too many. After learning the hard trail that it is being lord he understood his father Aston better and his respect for him increased. His father love this job more than anyone because he loved the people of Lhant very much, the same with him but he still has a right to complaint about the paperwork. His thoughts were interrupted when he heard a knock on the door.
"Please let it be someone telling me I have a meeting or Frederic with a letter to meet up with Richard, I'll do anything to skip this…."
"Come in its opened."
"Good day lord Asbel" the butler of the Lhant family Frederic entered the room.
"Hi Frederic, what is it?" asked the eager red head.
"Pardon me Lord Asbel but Master Hubert is outside waiting for your approval to come-"
"Yes tell him to come in!" the lord interrupted him with a quick reply without thinking about it, this was the chance he's been looking forward to skip the horrible paper work.
"As you wish" the older butler left closing the door.
Shortly the door opened again and entered the blue haired teenager lieutenant of the Strata army. Wearing his formal military attire Asbel smiled happily to see his brother again he was always welcome to his manor. So much has happened between them since he first return to Lhant. At first the younger Lhant was against him because of his failure to leave the town to join the knight academy when they were kids. But during their journey both brother bonded again and become close once more just like they were children. He was glad their journey took place otherwise Hubert would still feel hostile towards him but he was able to understand his pain believing that Aston sent him to Oswell for adoption because he wanted to abandon him since he already had his successor. But they eventually found out the real reason he sent Hubert away, in the end both found out how much he cares for his family. His younger brother's visit meant no more paperwork, either way he's really happy to see him.
"Hubert it's good to see you back."
"My thoughts exactly Asbel, though you seem to have a very busy schedule" the Strata lieutenant saw the stacks of papers on his desk.
"You have no idea" he gave a nervous chuckle.
"Perhaps it will be best if I depart and return another time. You are too busy to receive my visit, although I'm here on a urgent matter that requires your attention."
"No! er-…I mean it's okay, I can take time to listen to you."
"Hm…Are you certain? Just gazing at your desk you certainly don't have the time to attend to anyone's requests"
"It's okay this can wait because I know you're reason for being here must be important."
"I highly doubt all of that can wait. There are too many documents, enough to last you for a day to fill. Perhaps you should learn your lesson in never leaving the paperwork for last."
"It's a pain-I mean it's very tough" he really wished he didn't hear the first part.
"I was correct you did let all those documents piled up and now you don't have a choice but to fill them. You're setting a bad example for the people of Lhant."
"I don't like the paperwork okay? I'm still trying to get used to being lord. I know I did wrong in leaving all of these to the last minute but I can't stand it."
"Oh well at any rate, you're doing a good job so far."
"You can drop the sarcasm now. Anyway what's your reason for coming here?"
The young lieutenant shook his head while throwing his arms in the air.
"Have you forgotten? Today is the day when the Windor kingdom, Strata and Fendel will sing the official alliance joining our countries as one nation with one vision of peace and prosperity?"
His blue eyes widened he tried to calm down he was ashamed that he has actually forgotten a very important day in the history of Ephinea. This has never done before since all three countries were in constant conflict with power struggles wanting expand their territory and become all mighty supreme. Fendel has made many attacks on Windor especially here in Lhant, among those attacks that eventually took the life of his father Aston. While Strata were neutral with both countries it remained gathering data over both, especially Windor's cryas mine. After the Lambda incident the three countries formed a cease fire and a temporal treaty but after realizing they worked well together being beneficial they have chosen to make an official alliance, putting their differences aside for good. The red head teen sweat dropped that he the lord of Lhant has forgotten of such a glorious event.
"Th…The treaty ceremony is today….?"
"You did forget….? I am here to escort you to Barona castle where the ceremony will be held, I am only obeying the president's orders. As the lord of Lhant you're presence at the ceremony is mandatory."
"Yes of course I'll be there! I know how important this treaty is, Richard and everyone have really worked hard for it to happen. Can you wait for me outside? I'll be right out."
"Of course, look at the bright side you have an excuse not to fill the paperwork for now" he left the study while Asbel sweat dropped.
"He is right though…."
Taking a glance at his stacked desk he erased the thoughts of being busy filling all the papers. It's not that he really wanted to leave but he was being honest of the great importance of the treaty alliance between the three countries. He needed to be present at the ceremony since everyone important will be there too, from Richard, the president of Strata, Chancellor Eigen of Fendel and Malik as his new prime minister. It was his responsibility to be there and witness the beginning of the alliance, besides he was looking to leave town and get some fresh air anything to get away from the paperwork. He check his gear his sword Excalibur which it once belonged to his father was proudly sheathed on his waist with his hyper scabbard. He followed to pick up another sword which it was the katana he was planning in selling the weapon he will take it with him as they travel the road to the royal capital.
As he left the study there was many people ready to see him set off to Barona. There was Frederic with the rest of the Lhant manor's servants, his mother Keri, his granddaughter Cheria wearing her usual dress and finally Sophie. His adopted daughter had her lavender hair downed wearing a similar dress like Cheria's but with many different colors of red, white and purple. Unlike the pink haired girl she was wearing white silk gloves and the skirt was below her knees. She really looked like she was part of the family even if it's been only four days since she became human. They stood smiling at him while Hubert was at the door ready to depart, though he wouldn't mind staying a little longer and spend time with his family. The young lieutenant knew once the ceremony of the alliance ends he will have to return to Strata, and if that happens he might not know when he will return again to his native home.
"Are you leaving Asbel?" asked Sophie.
"Yeah, we're heading to the capital for the alliance ceremony."
"Which I might add you forgot all about it" said Hubert making his older brother sweat dropped.
"Then should I prepare the Turtlez transport?" asked the older butler.
"That won't be necessary Frederic, I would like travel on foot I don't mind the exercise. What about you Hubert?"
"I don't see a problem, we're hours early before the ceremony commences."
"Please be careful you two" said Keri giving her sons a quick hug.
"Asbel please come back soon" Cheria smiled while blushing slightly.
"Don't worry I won't be long, I'll make sure to return as soon as I can."
"Yes, I hope you finally ask Cheria her hand in marriage" said the blue haired woman.
"Lady Keri!" replied the embarrass girl.
"Mom stop it" the young lord was in the same boat blushing.
"Let's be off" said the Strata lieutenant.
"Right we'll see you guys later."
"Take care you two!" said Sophie.
They left the manor as they walked through the beautiful flower bed with the two beautiful fountains everyone else has gone outside to see them off. Asbel smiled waving goodbye to his family as they waved back, shortly both teens left. Their walked the streets of the town with their destination the East gate the road that will lead to Barona. The red head lord prepared his gear aside from his weapon, on his right side he had a small pouch where he was keeping a couple of apple gels and life bottles. It was necessary to be prepared just in case they do encounter any monsters. Though it was safe to say that ever since the matter with the Fodra queen was solved the activity of monsters have decreased dramatically. So in all honesty there was no need for him to stock on items since the chances were high that they will fight any monsters on their journey to the capital.
Asbel gave his goodbyes to the town's people as they were the first to wave him off. Seeing such Hubert smiled a little it goes to show that he has done a good job as the lord of Lhant. Even if he still needed to take some responsibility when it comes to do the paperwork, aside from that he was a good lord. He knew their father will be proud of him making the right choice in naming him his successor. They reached eastern gate leaving the town they were now in highroad towards Barona, from there on it became a quiet journey. As expected they didn't met a single monster passing by, the only ones they will see are the usual weaker ones but it has quiet down since their journey to the Lastalia shaft. Neither of the brothers didn't said a word maybe because there was nothing to talk about or just they didn't felt like talking while the red head was pretty happy he left town away from the crazy paperwork. Looking forward to the treaty ceremony that it will go all right, he smiled wanting to see everyone.
"You still haven't proposed to Cheria?"
"I want to wait for the right moment. I am planning in making a very special night for her, that's when I will ask her. I still haven't bought the ring though, no need to worry about the gald either."
"A wise choice brother, that's the appropriate way to propose to her. She'll be quite please when you ask her."
"Yeah I know she's dying for me to ask her, she can tell that much."
"Well you did basically tell her to live with you, that is the same way as proposing without making it official."
"You're right" he felt silly while scratching the back of his head.
"What about you?"
"Pardon….?" The blue haired lieutenant turned to him raising an eyebrow.
"You know what I'm talking about? Have you told Pascal you like her?"
Hubert has stopped on his tracks feeling nervous as he adjusted his glasses trying to act normal. Like the topic regarding his feeling for the Amarcian which will make him feel so embarrass and too nervous. He knew how he feels but it was just too hard to even tell her considering that he has been busy with military work. Even with the communicator that Malik gave him he hasn't taken the courage to actually send her a message. The young Lhant just coughed acting more normal than ever without blushing while he wanted to take the chance to do that, but it was just impossible with kind of work. Also Pascal has been very busy with wanting to finish Kurt's research regarding the Fendel's Valkyne cryas in extracting its eleth without making it explode.
"I don't feel like talking about the matter."
"Come on you can tell me I'm your brother. You're supposed to tell me anything personal, isn't that what family do?"
"Yes you're correct however this matter is entirely different. I would like to avoid it if you don't mind."
"I don't believe this, I told you about my future plans with Cheria but you don't want to tell me about your status with Pascal. I don't think it's fair that I feel free to tell you about my personal life and you don't."
"Asbel please I don't want to make this into a big issue. Your case is different from mine, you and Cheria have liked each other since you were both little. I only know Pascal for like a year and I still believe it is not right to make such move on her. I do have my reasons for not getting involved with her, its complicated."
"It can't be complicated to tell her you like her."
"Oh don't start with me brother. You have forgotten your small problem with telling Cheria your feelings? You had no idea you actually like her you were so oblivious to realize your feelings therefore you couldn't even admit it clearly. Can you really give me the advice of not telling someone my feelings when you used to suffer from the same dilemma?"
"Fine its true, but you deserve to tell her and Pascal has a right to know."
"I believe she would like nothing more than to complete her eleth research than knowing what I feel for her. Perhaps I shouldn't even bother with such matter and ignore it."
"Ignore it….? Not telling her truth? Hubert you can't do that, you're running away from the situation you're not a coward" the red head lord was a bit upset at his comment.
"I am a soldier of Strata Asbel, my duty and responsibility is for sake of my country and nothing else. Everything is for Strata other matters are of little concern to me."
"He's making up excuses now…Hubert you really need help."
"You really want me to believe you don't care about not telling Pascal your feelings? If it didn't mean a thing to you then why did you turned down the president's offer to marry his daughter?"
"That was a different matter I turned down his proposal because I was simply not interested in his daughter."
"Why is that then?" the red head was smirking.
"Because…." He paused looking ahead in shock.
"Because what?"
"Never mind, let's resume. I am not planning in arriving late for the treaty."
"He's still running away, I didn't know you need help this much Hubert…."
"Surely it can't be that bad for you, didn't you tell me you once told her your thoughts are filled with her?"
"I already explained it to you she didn't understood what I meant. She mistook it the wrong way thinking she really stank for not taking a bath in so long and promised me she will do such. She never understood the true meaning behind my words…."
The brothers remained quiet Asbel knew when not to continue pressing the matter. Hubert was still trying to get the courage to go through with it. The red head was in the same boat wanting to get the strength and courage to be able to propose to Cheria. It wasn't just waiting for the special day to pop the question but the courage to ask her those words even with his feelings he was still nervous, so he knew how his brother was feeling. They reached the stone bridge that will take them further to the port to Barona but neither of them looked to be focusing on the path of the highroad. While crossing the bridge their thoughts were put aside as they sense something heading towards them, they were right. Both siblings have performed a side step when something big landed before them they were shocked of the visitor as they welcome its presence sheathing their weapons.
Asbel unsheathed Excalibur while Hubert has taken his two guns putting them together form his dual blade. The large thing before them was a monster all right, it was big with a meral crystal body, and the color of its skin was black. Both arms had large spikes that looked sharp enough to cut anything and it had crystal like wings on its back. Its face had spike on the side, it appearance reminded the brothers of the golem type monsters they fought at both Ghardia and Lastalia shaft. From their experience fighting the oversize monsters they knew their type is very tough and strong. They were probably the strongest monster they have battle since Lambda and Fodra queen. Both siblings stood their ground waiting for the monster to make its first move they make a quick mental note that it looked very rare to be seen in these parts. The rock crystal creature made a loud growl as the two teens were ready to attack.
"So much for a quiet journey…."
"Are you having second thoughts that we didn't take the turtlez transport?" asked the young Strata lieutenant.
"No, we we're going to get attack by this monster anyway. But it's rare to see this type of monster."
"Indeed, let's be cautious. It might be strong like the other golems or perhaps stronger."
"Right…."
The giant black golem fired at powerful dark ray making both brothers to dodge it. The attack hit the stone bridge destroying it completely they saw the damage and they weren't pleasant. They have lost their way of returning to Lhant leaving them to take the long way to the town. Not to mention Asbel will have to spend some gald to repair the bridge, he mentally sighed reminding him the tough work that is to be lord. Hubert separated his weapon firing flare shot and aqua bullet making a direct contact. It didn't looked like it took any damage, the red head lord charged with a few kicks before rapidly unsheathing Excalibur using quick attack with some burst artes like lightning strike and demon fang. Those attacks were effective against the black golem and taking advantage that it was staggered Hubert charged in unleashing an endless barrage with his dual blade performing thunder bringer and whirlwind slash.
"Together now!"
The young lord attacked it first ice dragon flurry and dragon fury and his younger brother attacked with new moon and tiger blade. Both changed their styles, Asbel perform a sword strike with infernal torrent and phantom pulse they both finished it another burst arte. The red head swordsman used Abyssal seal while the blue haired lieutenant used rolling thunderbolt, the black golem was in critical condition from all those strong attacks. It gave a growl activating its nova barrier, this has surprised both brothers not expecting that it was able to do that unless it was a nova monster. The creature attacked unleashing a punch but they dodged it easily because their moves were slow. The black golem moved its wings it was now flying lifting itself above the ground. They were unable to attack him before Hubert used cross mirage an arte with the nova attribute shattering its barrier. The two siblings have jumped high enough to reach the monster both unleashing strong attacks making the black golem to fall to the ground.
"You know, I thought it will be stronger than the other golems we fought."
"Don't lower your guard, it's not over yet" Hubert prepared his dual blade ready to fight.
"Don't worry I won't underestimate it. I remember we had a tough time with other golems, even with the whole gang helping us" he resumed his battojutsu position ready to unsheathe Excalibur.
The black rock crystal golem got back to its feet giving another growl, this one resembling anger. The action made it obvious to both brothers that it will probably fight seriously now. The golem gave another growl as suddenly its body started glowing with a light blue aura. Asbel and Hubert gasped noticing small rays of the same color were gathering around the monster. The sight has shocked them because they have seen this before from a familiar being. They couldn't forget as they have seen Lambda doing it various times as the powerful being drained all three valkine cryas of their eleth dry. But it was still too shocking to see the black golem gave another growl as its body was getting filled with the eleth, it changed the color of its body from black to white and its black wings transformed in white dragon like wings. It was obvious from the sight it was getting stronger by the second.
"I don't believe it" the red head lord stood shock his blue eyes were wide.
"It's…Its absorbing the eleth from the landscape. I don't recall this part of the highroad to have enough high concentrated eleth for it to be absorb, what is going on?" said the blue haired lieutenant.
"Forget that, how in the world it can absorb eleth in the first place? There aren't any monsters that can do that, except for…Lambda."
"Lambda was no regular monster, and it seems that neither is this one…."
"All that eleth it's absorbing, it looks like it preparing to fire a powerful attack."
"We must stop it now!" shouted Hubert.
Both siblings charged at the eleth consumed golem. It gave another growl as it made his body shined with powerful energy due to all the eleth it absorbed. Asbe; and Hubert gasped as they were about to get consumed on the ray, they didn't had the time to dodge. The powerful golem gave yet another growl as it fired the ray attack hitting both brothers. As they were caught and consumed on the attack, it suddenly turned into a bright sphere filled with pitch black darkness on the sides. Once the sphere was gone they were gone as well as the golem, they have all vanished from sight. The only thing that stood as evidence that there was a tough battle is the destroyed stone bridge. Nothing else remained from the two heroes that fought bravely or the creature that caused all of this short mayhem. It was now a question of what, how, why and where could have happened to the Lhant brothers disappearing from view.
(Scene change: time skip)
Asbel slowly opened his eyes seeing a blurry vision. He rose up putting a hand on his forehead trying to get a clear vision, until his eyes were fully open and he was awake. The red head lord tried to remember what happened noticing some of his surroundings it looked like a corridor that might resemble an alley of the sort. Gazing to the left his eyes widened spotting his younger brother unconscious his dual blade lying next to him. His glasses were on the ground too, the red head swordsman was worried sick thinking the worst has happened to him. He went to his side checking his pulse a sigh of relief escaped his lips hearing his breathing and heartbeat. He was so glad he was still alive, but he still didn't had a clue when he was doing here not having a clue where they were. The sight was very unfamiliar with him because he has never seen this part of the highroad before. This place was definitely new to the young lord, but first he checked on his brother.
"Hubert wake up! Hey Hubert!"
The blue hared lieutenant gave a groan slowly waking up. His blue eyes opened staring at the face of his older brother, they were both all right. His eyes shortly widened remembering past events when they were traveling the highroad to Barona. He gazed at both directions taking a closer look at the area it didn't resemble the highroad at all, like Asbel he had no idea where they were. The memories were strong at what has recently happened when they were on their journey to the royal capital of Windor. The battle against the black golem who turned out to be stronger than they anticipated, they had the upper hand at first but soon they found out they were fighting against a creature that it was clearly underestimated. He remember the battle turned bad as it was about to fire a strong attack as they charged to it to prevent it from firing it. That's all he could remember for now, he turned back to his brother.
"Asbel…."
"You okay Hubert?"
"I'm fine I don't seem to be hurt. What about you?" he got picking up his weapon and his glasses.
"I'm fine, do you know what happened?"
"Are you suffering from memory loss?" asked the concern young lieutenant.
"Not at all, I only remember we were fighting against that golem that's all…."
"I recalled it was strong than it appears. Then I thought I was seeing things, but that monster somehow absorbed the eleth flowing from the landscape and it suddenly changed its appearances."
Asbel's eyes widened in realization the images were vivid from their encounter with the black golem.
"I remember…You're right it absorbed the eleth and it changed color, then it was about to fire an attack and we step in to stop it. That's all I can remember…."
"Yes that is exactly how it all took place. I'm still uncertain of whether we succeeded in stopping its attack or perhaps the opposite" he checked on his glasses to make sure they were still intact before putting them back on.
"Wait….Did we got caught in the attack?"
"Hm…That is unlikely I presume because we're still here standing and neither of us aren't hurt or suffering from any serious wounds. But if we did get caught, then why are we unharmed?"
"I don't know I remember it fired the attack and neither us couldn't dodge it in time. So I guess we did get hit by it and somehow we're not hurt."
"…."the blue haired teen was gazing around their surroundings.
"Hubert….?"
"We can worry about the golem and its attack later. Right now I would like to know where we are?"
"What….?" The red head took another look around the area.
"You're right I don't remember seeing this place in the highroad before."
"I'm unfamiliar with this place this is not the highroad to the capital" he started walking ahead.
"What do you mean? Of course we're on the highroad, we just left Lhant from the Eastern gate. This is the highroad to Barona even if this place is completely new to me-"
"Asbel….?" Hubert's tone was serious.
"What is it?"
The red haired swordsman walked to where his younger brother stood. Leaving the alley like area he was staring at the same thing the young lieutenant has been looking all along. His eyes widened in shock the area before him was completely different from the highroad, everything didn't made sense. There were many houses, none resembling any of the structures he has seen from Windor. He didn't recognize any style of the houses, and then there were some kind of poles with many cables. Sings unreadable because neither of the siblings understood what it says, they were unknown of the language. And some of the people passing by were wearing clothing that they have never seen before it wasn't the usual style they wear in Windor or any other of the two countries. The scenery was so new to both siblings not having a clue what was going on, everything like it wasn't real. The red head lord stood in shock trying to say something.
"What is going on here? This place is not the highroad, where are we? Hubert where are we?"
"…." The blue haired Strata lieutenant stood in deep thought.
"What is this place? None of this makes sense. We we're on the road to the capital and all of the sudden we're in this unknown place. I've never seen a town like this one before I don't understand-"
"Asbel….?" resumed the young lieutenant.
"You know where we are?"
"No I'm afraid not, I don't know this area. However bear with me and listen carefully to what I have to say…."
"Sure, okay…."
"Asbel…I think we're no longer in Windor or Ephinea for the matter."
"What….? What are you talking about? Of course we're in Windor."
"Listen carefully. You remember that golem firing that attack on us?"
"Yeah I do now, but what does that has to do with this?"
"This is merely a theory of mine. But I believe that attack that hit us was probably not an attack at all."
"What….? Are you sure?"
"I'm positive, the fact we're unharmed further supports my theory. If it wasn't an attack then…get ready Asbel here comes the crazy part of my theory….Perhaps it was some kind of teleportation technique."
"Teleportation….? You mean like we got transported somewhere else?"
"Correct."
"Okay, that does make some sense. Then I guess all we have to do is check the map to see which part of Ephinea we've been transported to."
"You weren't listening well brother. I said we're no longer in Ephinea."
"This is crazy, how can you be so sure?"
Hubert replied his question pointing to the unknown town.
"We have traveled all around Ephinea during our journey have we seen this particular town before?"
"I…I guess we haven't but still-"
"Also, I will add the sings I'm unfamiliar with the letters. It is clearly not written in the Ephinean language. This town it is not located in our world."
The red head swordsman pinched the edge of his nose while rubbing his forehead with his other hand trying to get all the information his brother was telling him, in truth it still didn't make any sense to him.
"So you're saying we have somehow been transported to another city that is probably located in another world….?"
"That is my theory yes. The strange ray that golem fired on us must have been a transportation ray that sent us to this world."
"Okay if we're no longer in Ephinea anymore…And if we're in another world, what does that mean for us?"
"…"
"Hubert answer me!" he was getting desperate not wanting to see the truth or admit it.
"There is no need brother you already know the answer…."
The red head swordsman slowly gave a soft gasp swallowing everything he has told him and the cold truth revealed. Being in a whole new world away from their home world, away from their loved ones, family and friends the harsh shocking truth has emerged. That they might stay here forever and never return to Ephinea again, his eyes widened, his hands started trembling not wanting to believe this was happening. Hubert watched him as the color of his brother's face changed turning pale and his breathing started quickening. He was no doctor but he could tell that he was showing some symptoms for hyperventilation, he knew the truth was going to shock him a lot but not to this point. The red head was about to collapse before the blue haired teen caught him in time from falling to the ground. His breathing was getting worse by the minute his face was still pale as his brother helped him get back to his feet.
"Asbel calm down, take a deep breath and breathe slowly."
"I'm fine…."
"Let's go somewhere else, can you walk?"
"Yeah it's nothing serious, I'll be fine."
"You had me worried for a moment. Come let's be on our way."
"…."
(Time skip)
The siblings have been walking the streets of the neighborhood for a couple of minutes. They were still trying to get over the shock that they were no longer in their world, but in a new one they have no idea how to live in. They have seen more of the signs with the strange letters that they have no idea what they meant. And the people they have passed by were talking in a strange language they have never heard off, obviously they didn't understood it along with the odds expression when they lay their eyes on their clothing. Asbel has realized Hubert's theory was true different town, different language and the people's clothing was different from the style usually wore by the people of Ephinea. This was a different world with some slight similarities but most of was completely different. They stopped getting seated a bench in a nearby park as they have arrived to the city, gazing at the tall buildings. Neither has ever felt out of place before a different world they didn't belong and probably couldn't fit in.
"This can't be happening…Maybe all of this is nothing but a dream. We're probably sleeping back in our world."
"Asbel don't make me burst your bubble of nonsense logic. This feels too real to be a dream it is too difficult to believe all of this I understand that perfectly. However this world looks bigger than Ephinea."
"Are we going to stay here forever….? Are we ever going to return home….?"
"I'm afraid I don't know the answers brother."
"We won't see everyone again. Sophie, Cheria, mom, Frederic, Richard Captain Malik we're not going to see them again" tears were emerging.
"Asbel we must not lose hope. If there is a way for us to return, then we'll find it."
"Though honestly the chances are quite high that we might not return I really hope I'm wrong. But right now there isn't any evidence that can change my mind if we can ever return…."
"I can't believe this is really happening. There is so much to do back in Ephinea, we're going to miss the treaty ceremony I want to continue ruling over Lhant, and I want to be there for Sophie and Cheria. What kind of father I will be if I'm not there for my family?" he tightened his fists in anger.
"Indeed, once everyone finds out we're missing they will definitely start searching for us. I can see the president ordering a full search party and King Richard a scouting party. They're all going to grow concern for our absence."
"You're making me feel worse Hubert, but you're right. What are we going to do now? We're in a new world we have no idea how it works, we don't know any of their language and who knows they might even have different type of money so our gald will be useless here."
"The best choice to do is to try and get adjusted to this new world. Try to fit in and get involve with the people here. I have a feeling we'll be here for a while, I'm not certain for how long but let's try and make the best of it. I suppose if we look into it from another point of view we can call this a vacation from all of our duties back at Ephinea."
The red haired swordsman gave a nod his younger brother will always pin point the truth even in the bad times. He dried his tears listening to his words adjusting to this new world was their only option right now, because he knew moping around complaining that they might not return home wasn't going to solve anything. He has never given up, he didn't give up in saving Richard from Lambda's control, he didn't give up in changing Lambda's opinion about humans and he wasn't going to start now as giving up to find a way back to their home. He was going to be strong for everyone's sake, his friends and family. Being negative won't help him get back to everyone he was going to be supportive. Taking Hubert's words into consideration he does make a point, in seeing their trip to this world as a vacation from his duties as lord, away from the annoying paperwork so it wasn't so bad after all.
"Okay I'm ready Hubert, let's try and make the best of it here. Don't know if it will work out but I'm willing to give it a try."
"Likewise, I am glad you're feeling better I can't guarantee if everything will turn out well in the end but the important thing is to give it a try."
"So what are we going to do first?"
"The first thing to do will be to learn their language, learning and mastering it will lead for better communication with these people and it will provide us with all kind of information. We might even get any leads that might lead for a way for us to return to Ephinea. Second we have to find jobs to make a living and earn money, I agree with you that they might have a different source of capital in this world so in other words our gald is pretty much useless here. Third will be getting some shelter a house to live although this should be our top priority, in our case learning their language comes first. Fourth will be to fit in with people from around our age, we can't be complete strangers in their eyes can we? Also the best way to fit in with those people from those ages will be to attempt an academy or a school."
"Wow Hubert sounds like he's pumped up and ready to go" Asbel watched him as his blue eyes were shining with pure burning determination.
"Being in a school will provide us with any information in their classes about how this world works everything about this world's history, politics, economy and so and on. Knowledge is power and we will make good use of it in this world. And finally fifth we may have to change our wardrobe, because people have been staring at us ever since we arrived here…."
The red head swordsman gazed around watching the people passing them by were giving them weird looks. Some of them who were kids and teenagers just smiled or giggled at their sight, it was obviously because of their clothing. They sweat dropped their attires we're sure bringing a lot of attention from these people, but Hubert's Strata military uniform was probably the one thing that was getting the most attention. Yep the fifth choice needs to be done mandatory, their objective is to fit in this world not become the center of attention. They got up walking while the people were still staring at them with questioning looks and other filled with curiosity, mostly by the kids and teenagers. They sweat dropped aware they were the center of attention and feeling a bit embarrassed, and the most common thought that the people were asking while glancing at the two siblings.
"What anime series are they cosplaying?"
(Time skip)
After hours the siblings have searched everywhere around the city. It was impossible to try and find any of the five goals Hubert has mentioned since they didn't understand any of the language. It has become more difficult than searching for a needle in a haystack it was impossible to find anything in a strange land you hardly knew anything about. Especially the language which it felt like was completely alien to the two because they didn't understand a single word or letter, it was truly confusing. There was nothing they could do and it wouldn't be long before it gets dark, they will have to spend the night sleeping without a roof over their heads. Worst when hunger starts kicking in they might end up dying of such if they don't find a way to survive in this new world. They stopped at a tall building with many floors they were tired after their long search. By now both siblings looked like they were ready to give up and maybe it was impossible to live in this world.
"This is crazy, how we can find a job or a home if we don't understand what these people are saying?" asked the red haired swordsman.
"I never mentioned it will be easy didn't I? All we need is some sort of book that will help us learn their language and we'll be done from here on out. Our main focus is to search for a bookstore however since we don't understand the language it will be difficult to find the correct book."
"There has to be some way to find that book, all of these people talked the same language. If we don't know it then we're doomed. If we stay here then we won't last for long."
"Calm down Asbel let's think positive, we're not giving up. This world has really perked my curiosity I want to know as much as I can, starting with their language."
"It hasn't even been a day since we arrived here and I already missed everyone" the red head swordsman sighed thinking about his friends and family back at his home world.
"Oh what do we have here?"
The siblings turned to find a way an older woman walking to them. She seemed to be in her middle fifties with grey hair tied on a single pony tail with dark eyes. She didn't have that many wrinkles she was an older woman but probably didn't look to what she appears to be. The woman was wearing a regular dress with a brown jacket and white flower sandals she wasn't that stylish that's what the boys thought. Now they knew she was talking to them the only people in the street, however they didn't understood what she said because of the Japanese language. The woman seems to be very kind with the smile she was giving them her expression clearly reads she's very sociable. But as long as they didn't understand her there was nothing to talk about because they were pretty sure she wasn't going to understand them either.
"My you two are sure wearing some strange clothing. I will guess you aren't from around here, maybe you're from outside of the country. Are you foreigners?"
"…." They looked at each with questioning looks.
"This is starting to get frustrating, if we don't learn to speak this language soon we'll probably go insane in this world" Hubert adjusted his glasses hiding his annoyance.
"Oh dear I must be right, neither of you can't speak Japanese. Well I can fix that, come with me you two."
They Lhant brothers gasped as the woman took their hands and guide them to the apartment complex building. They had no idea what this was all about, but they took it the wrong way having a bad feeling about it. Why would a complete stranger took their in and that's when they thought the worse, like she was a desperate single woman and she was looking for potential candidates to have for a boyfriend. Both Asbel and Hubert turned bright red she was too old for them not to mention they already had other girls in mind as part of their lives. The older woman stopped climbing the stairs leading the boys towards one of the rooms and they prayed she didn't get any ideas to tie them up to her bed and who knows do to both. She opened the door and led the boys she quickly closed it smiling happily at both. Neither of them knew that this encounter will change their lives in this world forever, and it will be for the better.
(Time skip: five days later)
At first Asbel and Hubert had no idea what they have gotten themselves into when the strange older woman took them into her home. Neither of them haven't regretted to this day that she did because they owed her everything when it comes to fit in and make a living in this new world, their luck changed for the better in time. The woman is named Yayoi Tsubaki and she's a retired language teacher she was the one to teach foreigners that came to visit the country the Japanese language. She even wrote a couple of volumes of Japanese dictionaries that have made quite the sales throughout the years. She was also the owner of the apartment complex and was the one to offer to give exclusive classes to the Lhant siblings along with giving them a room in her complex. In just a couple of days this woman has already done enough for both of them giving them a roof and the working hand to teach them the language, and for that they were very grateful for her help.
Thanks to Tsubaki Asbel and Hubert learned to speak Japanese in just a couple of days. Hubert was the first to catch and learn the language because he was nonstop practicing until eventually he mastered it and he's able to speak it very fluent. His older brother eventually learned it too it only took him a little longer than he's younger brother but he still managed to master it too. In five days they were able to fulfill two of their five goals. Eventually they fulfilled two more of their goals, both brothers found jobs to earn money and make a living as well pay the rent of their apartment. Asbel became a waiter at a Japanese food restaurant earning a moderate amount of money from the tips he received from his customers. As for Hubert, he became a librarian assistant which the job was the most suited for him due to his high intellect. Both used their earnings fairly including paying the rent which they did it together and also they managed to buy many pieces of clothing getting rid of the clothes from their home world, though they were still keeping it of course.
Among the Lhant siblings Hubert was the one who was the most excited to know about this world. His thirst for knowledge was never ending as he has searched through so many books about the history of this world, including their culture, geography, economy, and politics among others more. He even used the reliable source known as the internet to surf through the many sites to gain more information in order to satisfy his curiosity. He found out they were currently living in Tokonosu one of the many cities that is part of the country of Japan. He also found out about other countries like the ones from Europe, Asia, North America, Central America, and South America. He learned so much about the many different languages and the country's history everything about their government, politics and about the many wars that have sweep the planet Earth since the beginning of the planet's birth. Yet after learning so much he still wanted to learn more, his curiosity and thirst for knowledge demanded more.
As for Asbel he admitted that living in this world wasn't as bad as he thought, he actually like it living here. His brother was right this world was bigger than Ephinea there are so many countries and so many cities. Just only the country they were living in was big with many cities waiting to be visit, thanks to Hubert he learned about everything from the planet's history and the other countries. Though he wasn't as excited and curious as the younger Lhant he was still curious to know everything there is about this new world. However with the passing days he has come to miss his home world even more. Everyone from his family and friends he felt homesick, Hubert didn't looked like he missed their home but that was because he was too focus in gaining more knowledge about this world. He wanted to see everyone again knowing very well they must be so worried the he was missing, worst of all they had no idea where he was. He hasn't given up that they will find a way to return though that was the only thing they didn't know aside from the information about their new home.
(Scene change)
It was another beautiful day in Tokonosu city in Lhant sibling's apartment. Another new day in this new world where they will make the best of it to get accustom and adjust to their new way of life because as long as they were, they were no longer the lord of Lhant and the lieutenant of the Strata military. Asbel has left his room after taking a nice warm morning shower he emerged from his room shortly wearing casual clothes. A black shirt with navy blue pants and white sneakers it did felt weird to wear clothing that it wasn't his usual attire, though this wasn't the perfect clothing for someone who is the lord of a town. He walked over to the kitchen to find Hubert seated on the table with breakfast already served, he was took a sip of his coffee while he was reading the paper and there was also a folded next to it. The red head went to the table getting seated as he accepted the dish that is meant for him.
"Morning Hubert!"
"Good morning brother, I already went ahead and made breakfast I hope you don't mind."
"Not at all thanks, I love omelet and bacon" he happily took a bit tasting the great flavor.
"This is very good, it tastes like the manor's cooking."
"One can learn as long as you put your mind to it I assume."
"At least I will be well feed during work before my lunch break."
"That's correct you do work today, however my boss has given me the day off today so I'm free to do whatever I please."
"Lucky you, my boss is always relying me. I guess I have become a very important asset to his restaurant."
"Indeed that's how it works. The more he calls on you the better it implies that you're doing a job well done. I am proud of you Asbel."
"Stop it Hubert it's no big deal" he blushed from the compliment.
"I shall get to business now for I have plans today, since it's my day off. Do you remember our remaining goal to get adjusted in this world?"
"Our remaining goal….? Let's see we learned Japanese, we have a home, we have jobs leading to gain money, we changed our clothes there was a total of five goals there is one missing" the red head stood in thought.
"Precisely the one where we should adjust with socializing with people around our age and gaining a higher level of education which will lead to a high amount of knowledge gained, you remember one of my suggestions of how to accomplish said goal….?"
"Go to a school…."
"Correct" the blue haired teen unfolded the map showing it to a teen, which it's a map of Tokonosu city and the only place mark with red marker was a school.
"There are quite a number of schools in this city but the closest one to our home is Fujimi Academy. I'm heading there to make the proper arrangements, so we can start attending it as soon as possible."
"You're putting us to a school….?" Asbel stood in thought.
"Yes, I trust you have no objections with my suggestion?"
"Not at all, I don't mind going to a school. I know you're doing this so we can learn more about this world and maybe socialize with other people our age. I just wish we find a clue on how to get back to Ephinea."
"Hm…Perhaps we might learn something if we attend Fujimi. I assure you we will learn a lot more if we assist that academy."
"Okay, well I'm leaving to work. Need a ride?"
"I doubt I'll be able to fit on your bicycle" Hubert sweat dropped.
"Just trying to be nice, I'll see you later Hubert" he left the table heading to the front door.
"You haven't finished your breakfast" he spotted his half eaten omelet.
"I'll finish it later" he left closing the door.
The former Strata lieutenant gave a sigh looking in deep thought. It wasn't just Asbel who was down about not returning to their home, he was feeling the same way. He has been able to hide it because of his fascination to this new world there was so much information, it only keep perking his curiosity. But deep down inside he has thought about everyone his mother Keri, Frederic, Sophie, Cheria, Richard and Captain Malik. Of course there was Pascal the Amarcian that he still didn't know how he managed to develop feelings for her. He missed everyone but he was keeping a clear head and a realistic point of view of things. Unlike his older brother who hasn't given up hope that there was a way for them to return, he had a different opinion about it. Not that he was feeling negative but looking at things maybe their only option is to face the truth and keep walking forward instead of standing still. Nevertheless he felt sorry for his brother who has high hopes that everything will be fine and they will return home soon.
"Apologies Asbel I still doubt we'll get back to Ephinea. That is why I believe we should officially make this world our new home…Permanently."
To be continued
First chapter in the first ever crossover story between HOTD and Tales of Graces f hope you will all enjoy it. Just like the tittle this obviously takes place before the outbreak there will be a couple of chapters more before getting to the actual story of the manga and also, there are more chapters on the way so stay tune. Reviews are always welcome as well as following the story and marking it to favorites. That will be all I will see you all next time farewell peace!
Next time Act 2: Overture to DEAD part 2 new faces at Fujimi Academy