Episode 1: To me she said,What she declared.
In this world full of magic, the unlikely is something you would find normal here. But in the end, the unlikely is still a mystery. Nature, spirits, alchemy, magical creatures and all others, they've been always a mystery in human eyes. Especially the concept of "love", Oh boy is that mysterious. It is one that all of us have in the very beginning yet fail to really understand it completely. I can't even understand it myself. For you see, my parents abandoned me because of it...Well not really. It's because my parents were said to be extraordinary people, it was hard to believe they would leave me.
My Dad was known to be the greatest knight the Kingdom of Asfatalia ever produced. It was said with his trusty long sword, he crushed off 3 whole battalions by himself. The funny part would be that he was the one ambushed when he had high fever and a broken left leg. Sounds Impossible? Tell that to the survivors of the battalion that tried to ambush him and lived to tell the tale. People also said that he was always optimistic and outgoing; he was loved and respected by both his allies and enemies. But all I remember of him was when he taught me how to hold a sword and always follow my mom.
Speaking of my Mom, she was the most gifted mage that the renowned guild of magic of Asfatalia ever nurtured. She was the friend of all nature's spirits and an excellent alchemist. I saw once a statue of her located at the center garden of the Private Magic Academy of Asfatalia for Royalty once when I was a kid. Why? It was said that she saved the kingdom from a "Flare Titan" when she fully summoned the storms of 9 heavens and lashed them against it. She was a truly celebrated heroine of the kingdom with kindness and beauty to match. Though magic was dominated by females and only a few number of men practiced it. My mom taught me magic at a very young age, she also told me to always be nice to people and especially girls.
They sound amazing don't they? How about this, because they had so much "love" for each other they left me to my grandfather and went on to go on adventures around the world. And that happened when I was 5, I never heard from him since. The only thing they left to me was my dad's short sword and my mom's sketchbook with nothing on it. All which were kinda useless.
But hey, I don't hate "love" entirely. I only dislike it a bit. I've had my share of "love"…well at least once. Back then right after my parents left, me and my grandfather would visit some big house to see another old man with jewels and guards all over him. But that old man would always bring a little girl with him. She was shy at first, but we were able to get along in the end. She was my first love and we played a lot of things I don't remember. But there was one time that she fell into the river that was leading to a waterfall. My grandfather said I jumped in and tried to save her and we both fell down a waterfall. I know something happened before we were saved but I can't remember, it's been so long.
But afterwards, she stopped being there when we came to visit. Until the end when my grandfather decided we should travel the world in order to hone my skills as a swordsman and a mage. In the end I never got to say goodbye.
It's been 10 years since I left Asfatalia, and we're finally back from traveling. My grandfather said it was about time we went home since he had to take care of his business again. I wonder what changed in the kingdom. It's been so long that I barely remember it.
I see the gate of the kingdom. Right at dawn when the sun is about to rise, it feels so bright and feels like a fresh start. Then the white-bearded old man uttered some words. That would be my grandfather, Faldryn Wallblaine.
Faldryn: It's been a long while since we were last home. It feels like it was yesterday. But at least we're back now right? I can't leave the Magic Guild to be run by Eleina forever.
That's right I forgot, my grandfather is the Grandmaster and Archmage of the Renowned Magic Guild of Asfatalia. He is one of the few males who practice magic. He sounds powerful right?
Leo: Like hell it was yesterday, I was still wetting my pants when we left. And I barely remember anything about the kingdom. The only thing I remember is my parents teaching me a few stuff and a few other things before leaving.
Oh that's right! I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Leonsalle Halevy. My friends call me "Leo"…If I had any. I guess I'm the one telling the story.
Faldryn: Oh come now, it wasn't that long. You still wet your pants even now right? So what's the difference?
Leo: WHO THE HELL WETS HIS PANTS AT 16! Besides, it's been 10 years now since we've been here. Of course there would be a big difference.
Faldryn: I guess you're right then my boy…but you still wet your pants right?
Leo: Don't screw with me..
As we continued to chat, we finally made it to the Kingdom gate. The nearby guards immediately noticed my grandfather and gave him a respectful bow. Then they made their way to open the gates.
Leo: You sure are famous here aren't you, Old man?
Faldryn: More or less, I just happened to be around here for a long time.
Leo: But still, it's great to finally be back to my hometown.
Faldryn: Indeed my boy, indeed.
As the gates opened there were colorful streams of magic light all around. The streets and buildings were clad in wonderful decorations. Little children played around with small spirits and magical fireworks we're all around at that fine morning. Everyone seemed to be celebrating something big.
Faldryn: Oh my, is it that time of year already?
Leo: Old man, what do you mean?
Faldryn: The Festival, The Festival of Radiant Eloquence. To put it in simpler terms, it's a kingdom wide birthday party.
Leo: Ahh a Birthday Part-KINGDOM WIDE! Why would the whole kingdom celebrate only 1 person's birthday party!
Faldryn: It's because of the person's birthday that they're celebrating.
Leo: Who's the snobby person who has the whole Kingdom celebrating?
Fladryn: Why, that would be the crown princess of the Asfatalia Kingdom. Now that you mention it, I haven't seen her since she was 5. And today she would be 15.
Leo: Yeah yeah, whatever. Come on, we still have to get to the guild and check on everyone.
Faldryn: I guess you're right, now shall we get going?
Leo: Yeah, lets.
And so we walked and made are way to the Magic Guild.
As we walked up the highest hill of the kingdom and we ended up in front of a large building that looked like a monastery, a large garden was all around the vicinity. It was full of wonderful flowers, each shimmering with their own kind of magical blossom. And there was an old sign that hanged in the front of the building above the main door. It said "The Asfatalia Magic Guild: Drammatica". My grandfather gave a big sigh in relief.
Faldryn: After such a long time and after many places, it feels great to be home again.
Leo: Yeah, there is no place like home.
In saying that we opened the door to that great building but we were surprised to see that everything was a mess. Books, scrolls, paper, staffs and all scattered around the building walls, even on the ceiling. You could see little creatures strolling around the place, without a care in the world.
Leo: Say Old man, has home always looked this way?
Faldryn: No, it hasn't. Oh well, what could you do after being gone for so long.
Grandfather pulled out his magic staff from his sleeve and tapped it on the ground. At that moment a strange wind put all that was scattered back to its rightful place. Books and scrolls were back to the shelves, Paper was back inside table drawers, Staffs and wands were back on their racks. And the creatures back to their cages. Among those creatures being rightfully placed by the wind was a large pig-like creature from the right hallway. With it was a black haired girl in a white blouse and a long black skirt. She was being dragged from the ground as she was holding tightly the pig-like creature…Kinda stupid if you ask me. As the creature was placed and locked back to its cage, she stood up and dusted her clothes. My Grandfather gave a slight chuckle.
Faldryn: My my, what a predicament you must've been in. Eleina.
Eleina: Yes, Quite. Thank you for tidying up the place it was a gre—An Old man's voice! And Magic!
She quickly pulled out her round spectacles from her pocket, put it on and looked to our direction. At the sight of my Grandfather she trembled to the ground. She was at cold sweat for a while but then removed her glasses and gave a sigh.
Eleina: I must be tired. I'm hearing and seeing things that looked like the Uncle Faldryn.
Faldryn: Oh but I am here Eleina. I'm here take charge again, since it must be hard to run the place all by yourself.
Eleina: Yes it is hard to run the place myself since—UNCLE FALDRYN!
At that moment she suddenly jumps to Grandfather's arms with a big smile on her face. My Grandfather extended his arms in response with also a big smile on his face. But the funny part was, he dodged the lady's jump and landed face first to the ground. She sat up straight and gave an irritated look at my Grandfather..She didn't even notice how hard her nose was bleeding.
Eleina: Uncle! After such a long time! I can't believe you could be so mean!
Faldryn: My apologies young one. I couldn't resist.
That's My Grandfather.
Faldryn: Anyway, it seems that you had quite a mess here a while ago. What happened?
The lady stood up straight and started to explain what happened before we got there with a teary look on her face.
Eleina: Well, me and the girls were about to do some festival cleaning and rearranging the things here before the princess visited. But as soon as I removed everything from the shelves, they ditched me to go into town. One thing led to another and it became that.
Faldryn: I see the girls are as rowdy as ever. Some things never change.
Eleina: Yes, so it seems. They only age and that's about it.
Faldryn: Yes, you have too young one.
Eleina: What's that supposed to mean!
My Grandfather laughed at her response and she gave a sour look at him. But then she turns her attention to me with a confused look on her face. Her nose was still bleeding without her noticing it.
Eleina: Oh? And who might you be?
Leo: Leonsalle…Leo.
It's not that I'm bad at introducing myself, it's just that her bleeding nose kept on bothering me that I couldn't speak well…damn, its gross.
Eleina: Leo? Could he be?
Faldryn: Yes, he is the son of Duran and Natalia.
Upon hearing what my Grandfather said she gave me another good look..That nose is so gross..
Eleina: Now that you look closely, you look like your mother with your mother's brown hair. Your features are close to your father but you have you have your mother's lips. As for your eyes, your father's fiery red eyes mixed with your mother's serene blue eyes to make such a deep shade of velvet. My, aren't you special?
Look, I know that her saying those things to me is kinda flattering even If I don't want to be paired up with my parents but her bleeding nose just wrecks it all. I can't stand it any longer.
Leo: Your..your nose is bleeding.
I just had to say it.
Eleina: Oh really?
She checked her nose and to her surprise, it was bleeding. Really, it was to her surprise. My Grandfather gave a short chuckle and a look on his face that said "Finally she notices it".
Eleina: I'm sorry!
Being embarrassed, she ran behind a curtain and pulled out her wand. A small green light emitted on the tip of her wand and she placed it on her nose.
Eleina: Recuperatio. (Recovery)
With those words, a bright green flash came from the curtain. And after the flash she came out of the curtain with her nose unscathed. She came out in front of me with a big smile. Magic, never ceases to amaze people.
Eleina: Sorry about that, I just forget to notice those things.
Leo: No, not at at all.
Eleina: Anyway, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Eleina Westbow, I am A Highmage at this guild and your Grandfather's niece. So that makes me your mother's cousin and best friend. You can call me Aunt Eleina.
She's my mom's cousin? Hearing this kinda caught me off guard and surprised me a bit. But yet again, I don't want to be paired up with my parents..I don't want to talk about them until needed. I barely remember what they look like, and they left me here without a bit of regret. So I got irritated.
Leo: Please don't talk about my parents. I don't want to be compared to them either.
Eleina: What?
Leo: PLEASE DON'T TALK ABOUT MY PARENTS IN FRONT OF ME.
Eleina: Wait, but I though—
Grandfather placed his hand on her shoulder indicating her to stop.
Faldryn: He's still mad about what they did to him leaving him here without him knowing.
Eleina: Oh, I see. I understand.
Aunt Eleina turned to my attention again with a faint smile on her face.
Eleina: I'm sorry I ever brought that subject up.
Leo: No, it's my fault for reacting to it so crudely.
Eleina: Now let's just forget about it okay?
Leo: Okay!
I responded with a smile on my face, I felt relieved that it was resolved. She extended her hand to me.
Eleina: Well then, it's been a while since you've been here. So I think it would be best to say, Welcome home Leo.
I firmly took hold of her hand.
Leo: I guess I'm back. I'll be in your care again, Aunt Eleina.
Eleina: Of course you will be. For now, how about taking a bath at the hot spring? Your clothes look a bit..worn out. I'll bring you a new set of clothes once your done.
My clothes being "worn out" is a big understatement. It was burned, scorn, torn and soiled because of the long and painful journey we had going back here. I guess a new set of clothes would be ni—A HOT SPRING!
Leo: Did you say hot spring?
Eleina: Yes, it is down the west hall. Take a right when you reach the end and it is through a big door.
Leo: Got it!
I left without another word with a large grin on my face. Through the west hall I went.
(Aunt Eleina stood beside Grandfather as they saw me off to the west hall)
Eleina: He has his mother's smile doesn't he?
Faldryn: He sure does. By the way, where are the others?
Eleina: Most of them are still out on a request, the remainder of them are enjoying the festival. Except maybe for 1 person I think.
Faldryn: 1 person?
Eleina: No, probably just my Imagination.
Faldryn: Very well then, how about finishing up here so we and Leo can go around town?
Eleina: Yes Uncle!
Finally! After a long while of traveling back to this place, a hot spring bath seems like heaven to me. I didn't waste time to stop and take off my clothes. So the moment I charged through the spring doors I just ripped out the clothes and jumped into the spring.
Leo: SALVATION!
Unknown: Eh? EHHHH!
I didn't even care to wonder about that unknown figure that was at the middle of the spring as I jumped. As I splashed into the water, it felt warm. Ahh, Salvation at its best. As I ascended the water I heard a shrill, high-pitched voice coming from the direction of the strange figure.
Unknown Voice: Hey! What do you think you're doing! Jumping into the hot spring like that!
Leo: Sorry about that. It's just that it's been so long since I've had a nice hot bath.
Unknown: Well, that's okay then. Don't do it ever agai—A boy's voice!
Leo: Yeah, I'm a boy. Can't you tell?
Unknown: NOOOOOO!
Leo: Wait, Wha! What happened!
I got startled when the figure shouted and its shadowy form leapt to the air. From the fog was a small red light that seemed to come from a wand. I knew it was trouble.
Unknown: Hasta Coccineo!Circulorumin ausus trans! Nam pallam!
(Spear of Scarlet Spirals! Venture into the beyond! Whirling Blast!)
A red spiraling force was heading to my direction. It was clad with short explosions all around it and I'd bet that the biggest explosion would be when it pierces me. It would hurt till tomorrow if it did. I have to do something.
Leo: Gladius meus de Involucre! Nam lacus virginis amplexus! Avalon Eutopia!
(Scabbard of my Blade! Become the lake maiden's embrace! Great Place of Avalon!)
The scabbard of my dad's sword was summoned to my hand and it rotated to create a magic circle that blocked the spiral's explosion. The figure dropped down from the air and readied its wand for another blast.
Unknown: Are you ready for another blast you bastard!
Leo: Bring it on!
I held the scabbard tight and braced myself for the next blast. The figure charged the next blast, I know this is gonna hurt.
Unknown: Ready! Here we..Leo? is that you?
Leo: Yeah it's me! Now where's that bla—How do you know my name?
Apple: It's me! Apple Redley! You remember right? Me! App!
Leo: App? App! I almost forgot about you bro!
I had a big smile on my face and went to his direction when I remembered. Apple is a friend that I used to play with when I was a kid. My Grandfather would always be visited by his father and him and we would hang-out often.
Apple: Bro? Okay, I'll accept that..Somehow. So how've you been?
Leo: A little this a little that! Anyway It's great to see you again. It was kinda lonely for me without you.
Apple: Lonely! You! Without Me!..I feel so embarrassed right now.
Leo: Don't be! After all, now we're back together.
Apple: ...You're making me feel more embarrassed.
Leo: Now now, come on. We're back and that's all that matters right?
Apple: ..Right.
Leo: Right! High-five!
As I reached for a high-five through the fog, but it felt like I reached for something else, something soft and warm. I stroked it for a bit to investigate what it was.
Apple: Mmph…Nmmph..
Apple just kept on mumbling as I investigated. I couldn't get what it was so I asked.
Leo: Say App, bro, when did your hands get so soft? Magic gel from an alchemy shop?
Apple: ..WHERE DO YOU THINK YOUR TOUCHING ME!
As she shouted the fog started to clear. It showed his fair white skin and Strawberry Blonde hair. And also his camellia colored eyes. His features seemed more feminine and masculine, not to mention his shrill voice…Oh Crap, I forgot. Apple is a girl. And worst of all, I was stroking her chest. Which were actually not bad at her age—This is not the time to think about that. I don't know If I'm going to enjoy this memory or regret it. Though, I only thought she was a boy because she was so flat and short haired. She looked so tomboyish back then, but I guess not anymore. I sure hope she doesn't hear what I'm thinking of inside my head.
Apple: WHAT WAS THAT ABOUT ME BEING A BOY!
Crap..she did hear me say those things. I hate it when I think out loud sometimes, time to brace for impact.
Leo: Ehehehe..How much did you hear?
She clenched her fist and it started burning with explosive fire.
Apple: EVERYTHING.
Leo:…Please forgive me!
Apple: Forgiveness? Here's FORGIVENESS!
With a fist of fire, she launched me into the air. I'm…going to die am I? At least I get to see my grandfather again…Ahh, Grandfath—Wait! My Grandfather is still alive! No! I don't wanna go to heaven alone!
(My naked self was launched into the horizon of midday's sun)
As soon as I was able to finish my bath when I came down to from the sky, Apple directed me to a room where I could dry myself off as I wait for my clothes. I guess she was over awhile ago with that punch she gave me. I went inside that room and dried off myself with a towel I looked outside the window and oversaw the town festivities. Everyone was jolly and happy, young or old, rich or poor, everyone was celebrating. The princess must be a great person to be celebrated like this. I wonder what she's like..
Apple: Hey Leo! I have your clothes ready! Get dressed so we can check out the town already.
Leo: Ah, thanks Apple. Give em here.
As Apple entered the room, she was dressed in a red camisole over a white silk turtleneck sweater with an fire crystal necklace over her neck that was shaped like a crescent moon. She also wore a pleated skirt that matched the camisole and thigh socks that matched the sweater, along with brown colored boots. She looked rather cute in that outfit because of her strawberry blonde hair, but she was giving me a weird look the whole time since she entered the room…I wonder..
Leo: Hey App, why the weird look on your face? Is there something on mine? Did I grow a tail?
Apple: T..T..To..To
Leo: T? To?
Apple: T..To..Tow..wawawah…
Leo: Wawawa?
Apple: Tow..Towa..Towawa?
Leo: Oh..I get it, I'm real sorry…I grew a real tail didn't I?
Apple went silent for a moment there..Then she took a deep breath. I noticed she was blushing red a bit.
Apple: …
Leo: Hmm? You said something?
Apple: Towel…
Leo: Towel? What about it?
Apple: WEAR YOUR TOWEL IN FRONT OF ME YOU BASTARD! YOU HAVE SOME NERVE GOING COMMANDO BEFORE ME WITH NO CONSIDERATION AT ALL! I'M A LADY YOU KNOW!
With that statement she dashed towards me with a burning fist. Crap, I forgot she was a girl again. I have to get used to that Idea someho—Here comes her herculean fist again. This time, screw heaven. I'll get launched to my next life! I have to do something before she does something to me! What was that mom used to say..WHAT WAS IT!
Right!..To make a sad and angry girl smile again, no matter who she is..is a...gentle kiss to the forehead! That would make her calm and warm again! Even if I dislike my parents, mom's advice worked back then when I was a kid. Hope it works now!
And so I did, I caught her wrist at the last moment and went in for the kiss on her forehead. It was successful, but she didn't say another word. She just kept on looking down on the ground, not even looking at me. She was redder than before, that was for sure. She just walked out slowly without another word. She reached the door but stopped in front of it.
Apple: Just..Get dressed quickly..Okay?
Leo: O-okay.
Apple: Good response.
Leo: What?
Not answering my question, she ran out the door. I guess she was in a hurry, but for some reason I think I saw her smile on her way out…I'm just imagining things. Anyway I have to get dressed, we're gonna check out the town today. I can't keep them waiting.
I wore the clothes I was given and looked at myself at a mirror. The chainmail I was given was enchanted, it was made to be as light and comfortable as cotton. The steel chest guard complemented well with the chainmail and was enchanted to protect me more from physical attacks. Over it all was a red enchanted jacket-cloak with golden linings that was supposed to protect me from magical attacks. Brown pants and boots we're for my bottoms along with a belt to carry my dad's short sword and a small pack that contained my mom's sketchbook and other valuables of mine. Not bad Grandfather, I look really good in this outfit if I do say so myself. Now I have to meet them outside so we can get going.
As I got to the main hall, only Apple was there. It seems Grandfather and Aunt Eleina left for town first before us.
Leo: Sorry for the wait.
Apple: It's fine, let's get going into town already. Aunt Eleina and The Archmage left a note saying we should meet them at the square.
Leo: Well okay then. Lead the way.
We locked up the guild house and started strolling our way down the hill and into town. It was colorful and bright as far as we could see. So then we talked as we went down.
Leo: So App
Apple: Hmm?
Leo: When did you join "Drammatica"?
Apple: About 6 years ago.
Leo: Why?
Apple: I've always wanted to be a Flare Mage just like my mother. So I'm studying up to become a fire mage then to find my own "Flame of Resonance" to be contracted with and become one. Just like her.
Leo: Wow, that's one big dream. "Flame of Resonance" huh? What's that?
Apple: A "Flame of Resonance" is when fire titan recognizes your existence as a kindled spirit and bestows upon you his or her "Original Flame" and gives you the authority to use it as you see fit. My mother was contracted to "Adamas Terra" whom gave her the original flame of "Frostfire" and she mended it into her own creation that was known to become "The blue flame" or better known as "Sapphire"
Leo: No way, your mother was "Eloise of the Sapphire Rain"!
Apple: Yup. But she died giving birth to me, and I only heard those stories from my father and the people around me back then. But my father is gone now too.. I thought I was going to be alone back then.
Leo: I'm so sorry to hear that…
The mood got a bit damp there. It's beginning to feel a little awkward. Even I would feel a little down when I hear a sad story from a bro. Yes, I still call her "Bro". I can't help it she feels that way to me and I don't feel conscious in front of her at all..That may be a problem in the future. But then suddenly, she breaks the damp moment.
Apple: You don't have to apologize, Aunt Eleina took me in and the other girls are nice to me. And from there I was able to start training as a fire mage. And plus, you're here again so it just got better.
Leo: Right! Us bros have to stick together and support each other from now on!
Apple: Right! High-five!
We did a high-five to close our agreement to support each other. I'm glad after so many years that we've been apart and after my misconception of her being a boy, we were still bestest bro buddies. But something seems to be missing in that agreement. So then she pulled my face near hers, and she had a seriously irritated look on her face.
Apple: Just remember, even though we are bros I don't want to see you prancing around naked in front of me all willy-nilly and you forgetting that I'm a girl, since I AM A GIRL after all. Got it?
Leo: Go-got it.
So that was the missing part of the agreement. Me forgetting that she was a girl. Gotta remember that from now on…though, I doubt I will.
We finally made it to the square where my Grandfather and Aunt Eleina were. We met with them and decided to take a seat at a café to have a little chat about our Journey.
Faldryn: So then the Dragon eats Leo whole but spits him out afterwards because he soiled his pants
Leo: Hey! I was 8 back then! So don't pin that on me okay!
Eleina: That is so like you to soil yourself.
Apple: Yeah! Even back then when we were kids you did that!
Aunt Eleina and Apple fed on my misery laughing as my Grandfather continued to tell the tales of my most embarrassing moments of the journey.
Eleina: Okay then, that's enough picking on Leo.
Apple: Aww, come on. Just one more story, pretty please?
Eleina: That's enough, young lady.
Apple: Oh alright..how boring.
Leo: Thank you aunt Eleina.
Eleina: Don't mention it. By the way Leo, how's your magic training?
As she asked about it, my Grandfather cleared his throat. I didn't know how to answer her, but I guess I have to come clean on this one. Better than asking me in future, I'll just have to put it in a way that it's not pathetic.
Leo: Well…Uhh..
Eleina: Well? Uhh?
Leo: Hmm...
Eleina: Hmm?
Apple: Stop Stalling and tell us already!
Leo: Okay! Okay…Well, I've mastered all the basics in controlling and mixing the elements but…I still can't manage to go to a higher level of elemental power tapping as well as advanced mana shaping…
Apple: Huh! You're still in Novice Class! But it's been 10 years! You had a 6 year advantage against me, and I thought you would be 2 ranks below Aunt Eleina you know?
Leo: Well, things just don't go as planned right? Even for 10 year journeys.
Apple: Huh? But what about that spell you used with a sword's scabbard to block my "Nam pallam" a while ago? Deflection Spells are supposed to be Warden Rank right?
Leo: That is true, but that spell is probably the only powerful spell I could do. Though I hate to say it, it's a spell my mom taught me before she and my dad left. Along with another spell that allows me to call back my sword and sheath if it were away from me. Even then, those spells require great mana concentration for me to do.
Apple starts laughing at me again without hesitation. Ughh..This sucks, I hate being weak at magic.
Eleina: Well maybe magic is not your strong suit. Then again, mages are more like heavy artillery in a fight. Maybe you're a frontliner just like your father. You know, a Knight. Like how they use their power too…How do they use their power?
Faldryn: They utilize their own blood as a medium to tap into their soul or "Soulforce" for physical abilities that far surpasses any normal humans. As opposed to mages who uses internal spiritual force or "Magic" to invoke ethereal forces into reality.
Eleina: Wow, and then?
I could see the intrigued look on Aunt Eleina's eyes. She's really into this huh. Grandfather even got Apple interested. Oh well, can't do anything about that.
Faldryn: As we mages use "Magical words" to convey their abilities, Knights write "Soul Symbols" on the bladed weapon using their own blood to utilize theirs. Like how a the Elements determine the type of magic a mage uses, the kind of "Vanguard Soul" a Knight has depends on what weapon they use and how they use it. One can practice both but no one could combine the two. Since the fundamentality of where they get their powers are opposite.
Eleina: Wow, I see. So Leo, what weapon and sword style did you learn?
Apple: Yeah! What do you know?
Leo: I have my dad's old short sword and I've learned some styles on the journey. So I think I'm good at
two-handed and one-handed style. But I know I'm best using a backhanded style, since I use a short sword after all.
Eleina: Okay, and as for your "Vanguard Soul"?
Leo: …About that…
Eleina: Hmm?
Apple: Well?
Leo: I..Don't have one.
Eleina & Apple:...What?
Aunt Eleina and Apple had a confused look on their face. It's like they went blank when they heard I don't have a Vanguard soul yet. Learning how to use a sword is fine but a Vanguard soul is…another thing.
Leo: I said I don't have a Vanguard Soul.
Apple: But you said you learned weapon styles during the journey. How is it that you don't have one?
Leo: Look, learning how to use a blade or shoot with a bow is completely different from learning a Vanguard Soul, it's just not the same. And every time when I try to practice calling for one, the force back fires at me and sends me flying.
I finally said the truth, and they all went silent. Aunt Eleina had a surprised did say another word but it looked like Apple had another thing in her mind. Why do I know that? It's because I could see that dark smile on her face. Oh boy, she's enjoying this isn't she..
Apple: So that means you're just a one spell monkey that knows how to swing a butter knife around different ways then…Ha! You're way weaker than me!
I came! Her harsh words came! Gah! Master Apple..Please spare me. I know I suck at Magic and Soulforce but..IT'S ONLY BECAUSE I JUST DO ALRIGHT!..Wait that sounded wrong.
As we continued to laugh, suddenly loud trumpet sounds could be heard. We looked into that direction and saw the parade caravan going into our direction, in front of it was Soldier that kept on shouting.
Soldier: Make way for the Maiden of Radiant Eloquence! Our Lady of the Golden Crown,
Princess Halerisica Landervale!
With the shout of the name the town's people started talking around saying "The princess is coming". They gathered around the caravan path in hoping to catch a glimpse of the princess. They seemed so happy to hear that the princess is coming their way. I wonder why? What's so special about that princess anyway?
Apple: Oh? The Princess is coming? Hey Leo, let's go take a look at her. She doesn't get out much anymore since she started The Royal Magic Academy 4 years ago. So it's pretty rare to see her out.
Leo: Is that so. Well, don't wanna miss a chance right?
Apple: Right, so let's go!
Spoken like a true bro, Apple did. We raced into the crowd to check out the princess of the parade. Yeah! Bros check out girls together right? So that's what we're doing...Though, I have to remind myself that Apple is one.
When we were able to get into the crowd, we could feel the energy these people had. I can see why they'd be excited to see a princess that hasn't been out in a while but this is ridiculous. Everyone was jumping and moving around the place shouting "Princess! Princess!". The hype was too much, they kept on pushing us around back and forth until we got separated. As a White Carriage drew near, I was pushed up to the front of the crowd. I could hear 2 men talking about something about the princess.
Man 1: Ahh, Princess Halerisica. I haven't seen her since she was 12. Now I get to look at her as she turns into a fine lady.
Man 2: You said it. And now since she is 16, she has to pick someone to be her husband. Since it is stated in Asfatalian Tradition after all.
Man 1: Really now? But I've heard she turned down every suitor that came to visit her. Every single one of them came from distant land of riches just for her hand for marriage. She would just sit at the riverbank near the palace smiling each time she was allowed to leave the Magic Academy.
Man 2: Maybe she loves the water there? Even then,with her looks and kindness, who wouldn't travel?
Man 1: You could say that again.
The men gave a hearty laugh as they finished the discussion. I've overheard them saying the princess getting married, so she would be. Gosh, I feel sorry for the dude that she decides to marry at an early age.
After I was deep in thought thinking about the marriage part, I suddenly realized that a white carriage was in front of me. And in that carriage, there I saw..The princess.
Everything around me drew up in white light as I looked at her. Her flax blonde hair that reflected the morning sky, that pinkish white skin blended well with her pure white dress.
And they say "The eyes are the greatest window to someone's soul". If that were true, hers would be Azure Blue. She was simply dazzling to look at. As I looked at her it was as if she was looking right back at me. Time felt slower when I looked at her. It felt like a dream, a dream that I don't want to wake up from.
And in this dream, we continued to meet each other's gaze. At that moment tears that looked like crystal started falling from her face and it wouldn't st—Tears of crystal? She's crying! Isn't this supposed to be a dream? This is a dream right?
Leo: ..This is a dream right?
I realized I wasn't dreaming. She was staring at me and she was crying too. What the heck did I do? I'd bet I'm not ugly enough to make a princess cry..right? Yeah! Right! I'm not ugly at all!...I Think.
Woman: Look! The princess is crying!
With one shout from a town's woman, the crowd started getting restless. What's with these people anyway? Being all physical and stuff. As I was trying to figure out what made her cry..BANG! They hit me. One powerful push sent me flying towards the front of the carriage. It made the horses gallop and stop, which made the whole caravan stop as well. As I came to, I saw the people staring at me. Each and every one of them giving me an angry look.
Random Man: A man jumped in front of the caravan!
Random Woman: How dare he stop the parade!
Random Man: Burn him alive for stopping the parade!
Hey, easy now. You're the ones that kept on pushed me in the first place. It's not entirely my fault you know. Before I knew it, Heavily armored guards circled around me pointing their spears at me and questioning me.
Guard 1: Who are you!
Guard 2: What are you doing disrupting the parade!
Guard 3: How dare you crash the Princess' birthday!
Leo: But..
Guards: NO BUTS!
There was no reasoning with these guys. I know they're just protecting the celebration but they should at least let me explain how it happened! It's unfair!
Guard 2: Not talking eh? THEN I SHALL SKEWER YOU FROM WHERE YOU ARE!
The guard raised his spear and readied to stab me and end my life. I clutched to my dad's short sword in hopes of deflecting it and then running away. But as the spear came down and I drew my sword a soft, affectionate voice stopped our motions all together.
Affectionate Voice: PLEASE DON'T HURT HIM!
As we looked at the direction of where the voice came from, it came from the white carriage. The Carriage door was opened and you could hear another voice from it pleading for something.
Other Voice: Please Princess! Don't get out of the carriage! It's dangerous!
As the voice continued to plead, a white figure descended from the carriage. From her flax blonde hair I could tell, it was Princess. Her face was still full of tears, but when she saw me she wiped them away and stood tall.
Halerisica: Please, do not touch that man.
Guard 3: But you're Majesty, he disrupted your parade.
Halerisica: I don't mind anything of it...After all…
Guard 3: Yes you're Highness?
Without a moment to spare, she jumped in front of me and embraced me tightly to the ground. Her scent smelt nice…so this is what a princess smells like, warm and light. But then her face went mine, she kissed me on the cheek and whispered something.
Halerisica: My Father said you died, but I did not believe him. I waited all this time for your return. My heart ached as I longed for your return. I withstood those days without your warmth and gentleness, but no more. Don't ever leave my side…Leonsalle. So please I beg of you, take responsibility of your promise and
...Marry me.
How flattering, she knows my name and she wants my warmth. I felt heart-warmed touc—DID SHE JUST SAY "MARRY ME"! WHAT RESPOSIBILITY! WHAT PROMISE! When did I ever promise anything to her! I only met her today! And I didn't die at all! Ughh..Thinking about "love" right now is kinda bad, since I'm not on good terms with it yet. Gosh, nothing could be worse than this..
After the moment she whispered to me and I was baffled and confused, she looked up the guards with a serious face. The guards were intimidated in seeing a serious look from the princess for the first time.
Halerisica: Do not touch this man, for this man is my love and my suitor to become my husband.
Everyone: WHAAAAATTTT!
And it just got worse. With the people baffled and confused with the princess' statement, I took advantage of the situation and planned a way out of there. When I was done, I excused myself.
Leo: Well Princess, I have to go. Or else everyone here would massacre me, and that doesn't sound festive at all..Well to them it might be but to me it doesn't.
Halerisica: But wait my love, I still have many things to say and ask. Don't go.
Leo: Please don't call me that, It would anger them more. I'll answer your questions another time. See you later, bye.
With that being said, I ran to the nearest alleyway out of there. She stood up and started chasing after me, and she ran fast! She was at my tail the whole time. I tried to go through narrow points and over walls, but each time I thought I lost her she would just turn up at the next corner. I couldn't lose her.
After a while, I ended up in front of the castle gate. It was the last place I wanted to be. When I got there and they saw they saw the princess chasing me, they immediately went after me. So I ran towards the nearby forest but the princess was still after me, and so were the guards.
Leo: Princess! Please leave me alone for a while! If you don't, the guards won't leave me alone either!
Halerisica: But! But you might leave me alone again! No I won't…I can't stand being away from you anymore!
Leo: But Princess!
Halerisica: NOOOOO!
Guard: Catch that man! He has something important that is owned by the princess!
Well that's not actually lying. From what I heard from the princess a while ago, I did steal something from her..Her heart, and I didn't even know how I did it! Damn I suck..
As I continued to run through the forest I came across a small river so I jumped across. When I was at the other side of the river, I looked back and saw that the princess was just standing on the riverbank. She had a fearful look on her face as she continued to stare at the river. Is she scared of the water or something?
She looked up and stared at my face, tears ran down her cheeks as she stared…Damn it, its making me feel guilty seeing her cry like that. I have to do something anything..But what could I do?
Her knees give out and she falls to the ground. She kept on weeping more and more.
Halerisica: …S-see?..You're going to leave again..I won't be able to see you again anymore..I don't think I can go on like that again like before..not after seeing you after such a long time..
She seems to care about me deeply.. I'm not ready to love anyone right now since what my parents put me through but..This girl..Why does she care about me so much? I haven't really done anything before to make anyone notice me but regardless..She seemed to have known me and held affection for me for over 10 years and I didn't even try to remember..I'm the worst..But, those tears…why do they seem so familiar? I took in a deep breath went on with it.
Leo:..I won't go..
Halerisica: ..What?
Leo: Look, I promise I won't go anywhere else. I'll go to you and try to be your friend. So please, stop crying.
Halerisica: You promise?
Leo: Yeah, I promise. Okay?
Halerisica: Okay..But I don't think they'll allow you in the palace so I'll go to you. Where do you live?
Leo: Right now, I live at the Drammatica. You know where it is?
Halerisica: The Drammatica! Oh that's wonderful! Yes I know where it is.
Leo: Okay then, run along now before they get the wrong Idea and arrest me.
Halerisica: Okay! See you later!
She stood up with a smile on her face and I started to walk the opposite direction..But then I heard a loud shout from where she was, she feel into the river and was struggling to stay over water. From that it was clear she couldn't swim, and at that moment the guards came…Nice timing.
Guard: The Princess! The Princess! She's drowning someone save her!
As the guard kept on shouting for help I couldn't help but hear a loud gushing sound from the end of the river. It was a waterfall! And the Princess is gushing towards it fast! There was no time to lose so I jumped in. I swam as fast as I could and tried to reach for her, she tried to reach for me too but it was too late. She fell into the waterfall and I soon followed. As we were falling from the waterfall I tried to race to her, but when I did I embraced her tight and closed my eyes…Hoping, at least she would be safe in the end…Huh? This feels familiar..I've done this before..but when?..I remember..I remember now, it was the same back then.
When I was a kid I used to play with this girl. But one time we overheard her father talking to my grandfather about her marrying someone. I got mad and started running away into the forest, thinking that I would lose a friend to another person. She followed me until the riverbank when I was about to cross it. She hugged me, telling me that it was too dangerous but I didn't listen. In consequence of my recklessness, she's the one who fell into the river. I tried to save her just like this, by hugging her tight as we fell to the waterfall. As we landed, I brought her to shore. We sat there waiting to be rescued.
Leo: Are you okay?
Girl: Yes, I'm okay.
Leo: That's good, I won't be accept my sorry to myself if you got hurt.
Girl: That's so like you Leonsalle.
Leo: …
I went silent for a while and she went silent too. I didn't know what to say to me back then so I just sat there. But she broke the silence.
Girl: Leonsalle..I'm going to get married when I get older..
Leo: ..What about it?
Girl: If I would..Promise me 2 things.
Leo: What would it be?
Girl: First. If I ever fall from the sky again, save me okay?
Leo: Okay, and next?
Girl: Second..When it's time for me to choose a husband..Please, let it be you.
Leo: What are you saying?
Girl: That you would marry me when I grow up!...Please.
Leo: But…Would marrying me make you happy?
Girl: Yes it would! The Happiest!
Leo: Okay! I promise.
Moments after, we were saved by the search party. But that would be the last time I got to see that girl. And that girl..was Princess Halerisica.
After having that dream I woke up lying on the riverbank below the waterfall. I was still embracing princess after the fall, and she was still embracing me. She was awake but still didn't let go. Same place we were, 10 years from then.
Halerisica: Please, don't let go..I just want to say like this, even for a moment.
In her request, I held her tight. I could feel the warmth of her skin as we embraced me…I feel embarrassed just thinking about this right now. But then she continued to talk.
Halerisica: My father, the King said that you died of illness after the first fall we had here…but I didn't believe him. I know you would return. So I waited for years for your return. Please, you kept one of your promises. Then please keep the other. Make me the happiest girl the 9 heavens has ever seen..Marry me.
She landed me that line again.."Marry me". It's hard to respond to that, especially if it was sudden. But she had an hopeful look in her eye, and she waited for me for so long. I just had to answer her straight.
Leo: I can't do that Princess..at least not yet.
Halerisica: Why not!
Her eyes started to well up again and was about to cry. But I wasn't done talking, I needed to calm her down for a bit..So I kissed her forehead..Mom's advice again, and that got her listening.
Leo: It's not like I don't want to marry you, It's just that it wouldn't seem fair to you that you hold feelings for me and I don't for you. So I would like to get to know you better first, Be your friend. And maybe someday, I might consider it. Would that be okay?
After what I said, she started to smile a bit again. It was like the sun came out after a storm, I could see hope in her eyes again. But one thing I didn't see coming, is that ambition was in her eyes too.
Halerisica: Okay. Then I promise you that I would follow you anywhere you go!
Leo: Oka—Wait what!
Halerisica: You heard me! I'll follow you wherever you go! I'll..I'll..I'll Stalk you till you love me!
Leo: This will become troublesome with the kingdom you know?
Halerisica: I don't mind if it becomes troublesome for them! As long as I stay with you, I'll be happy Leonsalle.
Leo: Oh boy. Then for starters, just call me "Leo". That's what my friends call me.
Halerisica: Then Leo, just call me "Haley". That's what YOU called me back then.
Leo: Princess Haley?
Haley: No Princess, just Haley. I want you greet me the same way you did back then.
Leo: But without the "Princess" part..It just feels so awkward..
Haley: But..but..but..I'll cry if you keep calling me "Princess" then.
Leo: Er..Okay fine, Haley then. Happy now?
Haley: Perfect! Now Leo, I declare war against you!
Leo: ME!
Haley: Yes you! As The Crown Princess of the Asfatalian Kingdom, I declare full scale war against you and your heart! I will stalk you so I will emerge victorious and receive your loving feelings that I've longed for! So you better prepare yourself, Okay My Love?
Leo: Ehehehe. Okay then.
Oh Princess, she said she would stalk me until I would love her. Where did she get that Idea? And of all Ideas, THAT STALKING ONE. I wonder how I would live from now on, I'd bet I just became the kingdom's #1 public enemy for stealing all of the princess' attention. Oh boy, forcing me to love her when I'm not really good with "love" myself. This is gonna get messy. I hope I survive.
To me she said, what she declared.
A War to steal my heart and to love her whole.
This story of mine is about to unfold.
Many mysteries and challenges it holds.
But there one thing that is safe to say.
What the Princess is to me.
The Princess is my Stalker
By Nighty-Knight12
22