For so long, the previous chapters have developed Serafina and Mercy very well. We even have some fun chapters. But now, it's time for King Henryk to return for his moments of glory. This is it. What will he do now that it's almost time?
Also, DOUBLE chapters! Enjoy.
Chapter 13: Usurped Destiny
The world was dying. Everyone was dying. Screams, cries, and the sound of despair was all that she heard. Of course, she was dying too, having been severely injured. Her back was bleeding and a pool of blood surrounds the maiden. Her vision was hazy as she can feel her soul leaving her body. But despite she felt cold and numbness all around, somewhere - someone - was radiating warmth. From her hazy vision, she could see a man. He was holding her hand in his, crying.
"I won't let you die!"
'Die?'
"I won't let you go! I'll save you, Shannon!"
'Shannon? Who...?'
Before the memory or dream ended, what she last saw was in the man's other hand. A blue gem that started to shine.
Opening her eyes, Mercy felt very weak today, having to close them again. How very odd... She was in bed, feeling her body overheating. Sweating uncomfortably and breathing shallowly, the doll doesn't quite understand how or why she came down with a fever. She was a doll, so how could she catch it? Regardless, it was real. She can feel her cheeks burning.
'Why?' she wondered. 'Why all of a sudden... My body is overheating?'
Trying to open her eyes, all she saw were the ceiling spinning. Feeling dizzy, she quickly had to shut them once more. After some time, she got up from bed before letting out a small cough. Feeling the soft snow under her feet, the doll got changed out of her nightgown into her usual attire.
Despite having a body made out of mud, she doesn't really feel the dropping temperature since her body isn't even real. Still, it was very unusual to experience a fever. For a brief moment, she was considering wearing warmer clothing before ultimately shaking the idea and heading out of her room.
It has been a few days after February 1st. Brigid has already turned fourteen years old. Ever since her birthday, she appears to retain her youthful looks. King Henryk, on the other hand, has become old. Pretty strange since he is only thirty four into his years, but he really feels old. With time, he started to grow a small beard and his slowly greyed hair is parted in the middle. The King started to wear a red robe and a blue, ermine-trimmed cloak. He has grown wiser these days, but some mistakes are easy for him to repeat.
With old age comes newfound wisdom and he has grown more suspicious of the Royal Advisor. She hasn't talked much to him after setting that Salt Enchantment Barrier so many years ago. It was almost like she was hiding something from him... And the sisters, they are with the Royal Advisor too...
He was not going to wait and simply sat at the sidelines. No more shall he follow the words of others. Today, he is going to get some answers. And he knows where to start... The Royal Advisor's room. Walking to the window, the King looked grimly down below. Speak of the devil, there the witch was. She was outside at the Royal Garden. A few feet away was Mercy, who was taking a stroll. Clearly, the girl was deep in thought. Whatever was dwelling in her mind, it didn't last long. Looking up to see her master, the water doll became tensed.
Looking down to avoid the old witch's gaze, much to her consternation, the Royal Advisor ignored her. Just as the crone passed by her, she whispered something.
"Do be prepared."
Be prepare? What does that even mean? Is it meant to be some kind of warning?
Confused, Mercy turned around, "What do you mean by that?"
Cailleach elaborated, "Very soon, I have no doubts that the Princess will be leaving. And she won't be coming back for a very long time."
"And why are you telling me this? Is it because it'll mess up your plans?" Mercy sassed. "Or is it because you're trying to spite me?"
The Royal Advisor simply chuckle in response, "Not at all. In fact, I think it will make it more interesting."
"But I thought you were getting impatient."
"Don't get me wrong, Mercy. Of course the Princess' soon departure will make me have to wait even more than I have to. However, if suffering and misery is the result of it, then I wouldn't mind waiting a little while longer."
"Then why did you told me?"
"I really want to see you and that girl desperately cling onto that hope. And once you two realized and accepted your true roles - your real purpose for being brought into this world... You'll finally suffer like I did." Cailleach laughed before walking away.
Understanding that she won't be getting any more information out of her master, Mercy turned and went to find Serafina. She has to find and warn her about the inevitable. Even if it was probably a lie or a trick to let her guard down, she won't take lightly of the Royal Advisor's warnings, no matter how small or insignificant it might be.
Hearing the footsteps getting further away, Cailleach stops to turn around and smiled. Good. The girl was gone. Let her tell the failure. It wouldn't change anything. In fact, nothing is going to change. Looking up at a certain window, the person who was watching her was now gone.
'Oh, how foolish you are, Your Majesty.' the old woman sneered. 'No matter how hard you tried, there isn't really anything you can do or have done to prevent the path I've laid out for your precious daughter. It's impossible.'
Impossible because it's too late. She was already one step ahead of everyone. The King, her dolls, everything and everyone. This was all planned out since the very beginning she came to this kingdom. So what if the King is searching for clues right now as she speak? It wouldn't change from her plans. After all, she left her room so the fool can search it. If there is anything she enjoys, it's that people getting their hopes up only for it to be replace with despair immediately after.
"The same goes for you too, Mercy." she mutters. "You and Meranda may think you can deceive me, but I am aware of it. Even if my plans were to fail, it would only be under your false presumption that you've won. All you're doing is prolonging my plans, nothing more."
A wider smile spread on her face. She recalled cursing a young man into a frog so many years ago. How long has that been? Oh, his suffering was glorious. How he became cold and unwanted, just like her. He still is. Even better, he's suffering from his new curse. She'll make sure that those who was against her are turned the same. She will turn them "evil" too and they will suffer just like her. They shall be hated, cursed at, and alone... Just like her. And it seems she has found her next victim to share her pain of loneliness. Who, you might asked? Well, that is for her to know and for you to find out.
While trying to find her sister, Mercy thought she saw something tossing around in the snow. Curious, she lightly run over to see what it was. To her surprise, it was a pair of beautiful blue birds. One of them was stuck in the snow and was desperately trying to get out. She was chirping in distressed while her sister was frantic, chirping and not knowing what to do.
Feeling pity, Mercy helped the trapped blue bird, cupping the freezing creature in her hands while the sister flown and landed on her shoulders. It looked like she made a few new friends.
After finding Serafina and giving her a quick run down on what the Royal Advisor had told her, they agreed to go to Mercy's Snow Room to start a plan of their own. And so, the sisters wasted no time.
In Solwood, Nuada had just returned to his home. Seeing his land abandon brought back sad memories. Of course, he would have preferred returning home after getting his daughter back, but that was out of the question at the moment. Besides, perhaps coming back to his forest might give him some time to find any spells to break the barrier that surrounds the Grak Kingdom.
But, of course, priorities first.
Walking to the Stone Sanctuary, the Dragon Prince stared at the golden cross. It has been a while since he visited Wanda's grave. He has been focusing on getting Brigid back, he had forgotten to pay his respects to his late wife. It made him feel guilty for it was like he was neglecting her.
Being a Daemon Evoker, Nuada doesn't quite understand religion. Back before the clan separate from the humans, they would share and accepted the different values and beliefs of others. But after, the clan has adapted a more... Philosophical lifestyle. Of course, Daemon Evokers believed in deities, but they mostly offered their prayers to the Moon Goddess. The Dragon Prince recalled his memories spend with Wanda. She explained the concept of how humans have graves as a way to honor and respect those who've passed away.
She wasn't an Evoker, so she deserved better than simply being buried in the ground. Kneeling in front of the grave, Nuada clasped his hands together. Perhaps he was lonely or he didn't want to internally expressed his thoughts, so he spoke out loud as if she was right there in front of him.
"Wanda... I'm sorry I haven't visited you in a long time." he started. After a short pause, he continues, "She has grown up to be like you... Brigid, I mean."
Another pause. At this point, the Daemon Prince doesn't know what else to say. He was left feeling awkward. Remembering the way how his daughter smiled and laugh, he did felt some joy. But the feeling didn't last because he realized how lonely he has become. Both his wife and daughter are unreachable. So close and yet, so very far.
'I really missed you.' he thought.
"I'll see you again, my lovely Moon Princess."
With nothing else to say and his desires to get his hope back, Nuada said his farewells to his wife before heading to the Dragon Fort.
In the Royal Advisor's room, King Henryk first made sure that no one was in the room. Nothing. That was good. Sneaking into the room, the King closed the door before beginning his investigation. He first tried the lab, but it was empty. He tried looking at books, anything that could give a clue of what she's truly planing. There wasn't anything! Just books on alchemy. Frustrated, the man pound his fist against the book shelves. A clank echoed in his ears. Looking up, he saw a tea cup has fallen. His eyes then trailed to the tea pot.
The Royal Advisor would always drink tea and pour the steamy water from the pot. Perhaps it was a clue? Taking a shot at it, the King went over to the tea pot. Opening the lid, there was something that caught his attention upon looking inside. There were three symbols in the pot. The alchemy symbols for salt, sulfur, and mercury. Those symbols are needed to gain access to the Arcane Lab.
Taking his chances, the King went to the Arcane Lab to find anything that could come of use. There were some annoying puzzles. Was it some sort of way to protect whatever the Royal Advisor was hiding? After solving the puzzle, there was a book - a diary.
When the Princess is of the right age, the Salt Enchantment Ceremony may be carried out. Using her life as a sacrifice and her life force as a battery for the Ceremony, the entire world can be turned into salt.
After reading the entire entry, Henryk was taken aback. All this time, the Royal Advisor never intended to help him. The true purpose of the Salt Enchantment Barrier is to amply the Salt Enchantment Ceremony. The King shook with rage. All this time, the witch had intended to harm his daughter, not help her. But as quickly the rage came, it eventually melts away. He had been aiding the witch without even knowing. It was now too late to realized his mistake. The Royal Advisor had already set up everything.
Sadly, Brigid has already turned fourteen. If she continues to use her salt powers, she'll be drained of her life force. Up till this point, it hadn't harmed her before, right?
'No... That can't be.' the man shook his head.
He remembered a time during Mother's Day, he had shared a short conversation with the younger Royal Guard.
"Mercy, wait." he ordered. She did as she was told and turned around to face him. "Has... Something happened with Brigid?"
"What do you mean?" she questioned.
After some silence were exchanged, Mercy excused herself again.
At that time, he let her go. But he recalled looking into her eyes. They told him that something had happen - something wrong. Could it have been possible? That Brigid has felt the effects from the Salt Enchantment Ceremony before then?
The sound of the door closing startled the King as he turned to see the Royal Advisor.
"Read something interesting?" she teased. "You know, you should close the door behind you. Never know who could be watching."
"You!"
"It appears that I've been found out." Cailleach smiled.
"I want you to leave my kingdom!" King Henryk immediately ordered.
"Why? So soon? After everything I've done for you, this is how you repay my kindness?" she mocked.
"Don't you dare play with me! Everything you've done never helped me!"
"But, Your Majesty, who is really at fault here? Stop being so arrogant. We both know whose to blame." the Royal Advisor became stern. "You wanted to live in your ideal fantasies that Princess Wanda was captured by that Daemon Prince, accepted my help, sparked the war that lead to the loss of many, and entrusted the Princess' true heritage to me."
The King gritted his teeth, "I will admit, I have made many mistakes during my reign. It may be impossible for me to undo my mistakes, but I can still fix all of this. I now hereby banish you from the Grak Kingdom. I don't want to see you here ever again!"
There was a moment of silence until Cailleach burst out laughing, "AHAHAHA!"
"What's so funny?"
"What's so funny is exactly that! You think you're in the position to exile me? What a joke!" she laughed until her smile fell, "You're just the same as all the rest! That oaf of a Daemon King, the clumsy Forest Queen whom your beloved descended from, and now the conceited Grak King. You're all filled with so much pride and arrogance, I wonder if I am fitted to be the host for the Spirit of Pride? Unfortunately, Your Majesty, I'm more powerful than you."
"You're lying."
"Am I?" she tested. "You dare underestimate me!?"
Using her powers, she directed her magic at the King. Being a mortal with no knowledge of such witchcraft, Henryk was blown back. Landing on his back with a grunt, the man stood up to realized in horror at what the witch has done. Looking at his hands, he saw how old and wrinkled they looked.
"W-What have you...?" the King spoke before stopping.
His voice... It sounded so elderly.
"Surprised? I just took 20 years of your life and add them to mine." Cailleach explained. "That's not all I can do. Come in."
The door opened to reveal Mercy. She didn't look like herself as if she was under a trance. If he was honest with himself, the girl looked very much like when he first met her. Emotionless, not talking. Something wasn't right.
"Mercy..."
"Oh, don't look at her like that. She didn't betray you." the Royal Advisor grip at the doll's shoulder. "At the moment, Mercy cannot hear you. She's actually asleep right now."
"What?"
"I'm sure you've heard of my check up on her? Back to that Christmas celebration, I've imbued a piece of myself into this girl. Now, her soul is split into two and are at conflict with each other. The one who continues to love and the other who wished to be loved."
"How could you do this? Despite they are your creations, don't you feel anything towards them?" King Henryk questioned, rage slowly build inside him.
"And why should I? They are merely dolls meant to be used and played with." Cailleach replied with little empathy.
The King was filled with anger. He thought back to Brigid. Imagining someone using his daughter... He doesn't even want to envision it. Looking back at the impassive girl, Henryk felt sorry for her and Serafina. He has seen the two of them enjoying their time with Brigid. But for them to be used against the purpose of protecting the Princess without choice, it was pitiful - living two lives.
Standing his ground, the man tighten his hands into fist, completely defeated. The Royal Advisor stood and laughed. After mocking him to enjoy his "last moments with his daughter", she left with Mercy quietly following her. Alone in the Arcane Lab, the King still stood. Out of any expression he could make, he looked up to reveal a determined look in his eyes.
"Not if I can help it."
Leaving the lab, Henryk began his plan. It might not work. The Royal Advisor has already proven herself prepared. It's possible that she might expected this. However, he will try and at the very least, attempt to delay the witch's plans. If this is to work, he'll have to act now.
Back at Solwood, Nuada was also thinking of a way to get pass the barrier in the Dragon Fort. There are two ways this could go once the defense is down. Take his daughter back without question or... Have a compromise with the Grak King. Although the former will reunite him with Brigid faster, the latter was more efficient and more appealing to both sides. While thinking all about this, the sadden father rocked the tiny crib gently, old memories of his daughter started to surface from under his pain and sorrow.
The last time since he talked to her was when she was four years old. But... She doesn't remember him anymore. Taking the dragon doll he once gave her in his hands, he whispered a vow.
"I will get you back, Brigid."
Just as the Daemon Prince was about to think more of a plan, he was startled by a tapping sound. It was a messenger bird pecking against the window. Surprised, Nuada left the dragon doll at the crib and opened the window as the bird showed a string with a letter attached tied around its neck. The man's expression became stern. This creature has been enchanted. That was how it was able to get pass the Salt Enchantment Barrier despite it came from the Grak Kingdom.
Taking the string off, Nuada unrolled the message to become surprised and a bit suspicious. It was an invitation to the Grak Kingdom by King Henryk!
To the Prince of the Daemon Evokers, Nuada
I'm sure you are trying to find a way to reclaim Brigid. There is no need for that.
I decided to invite you to my kingdom. I want to discuss on Brigid's future in a civilize manner.
However, with the Salt Enchantment Barrier around my kingdom, it is impossible for you
to enter my home right now. Please come on April fourteenth. That should be enough time
to get the barrier down. And don't think about summoning your dragon partner.
I rather avoid more collateral damage to my kingdom. It also wouldn't leave a good impression
on our daughter. Due remember the date for this is the only chance you'll get.
From,
The King of the Grak Kingdom, King Henryk
After reading the message, it only build suspicion in Nuada's mind. Why would it take roughly two months to get the barrier down? What was the King planning? It has to be a trap, the Dragon Prince was sure of it. However, this could be the only chance for him to see her again after all this time and to reclaim her. If not, perhaps he can maybe convince the King to share custody with Brigid. So, on April 14th, he will come.
Writing a letter back, Nuada tied the rolled up reply around the messenger bird's neck before letting it fly back home.
Meanwhile, in the Snow Room, Mercy and Serafina were making something for Brigid. Using spell books and collecting the items required, they were getting prepared to make an ancient magical receptacle. With the right spell acquired and the necessary items, it was only the matter of creating it.
After setting another book on the stand, Serafina turned towards her younger sister, "Are you sure there isn't anything else?"
"Believe me, I only know as much as you do." Mercy insisted.
They don't know what will happen to their little sister. After Serafina was informed of what their master had claimed, much to the older sister's dismay, the sisters wasted no time. Of course, Mercy was taken for a short time for unknown reasons before returning with a worrisome expression. This was another precautionary action. With their magic, they plan to create the mystical sun jeweled box. Legend says that there were only seven true sun jeweled boxes and yet, they eventually disappeared from existence, becoming an old tale. It is unknown if there are seven individuals out there who are in possession of these boxes.
Somewhere in her mind, she felt that was the case. Sun jeweled boxes can come in handy. No matter how many items are stuffed inside, the box would always have infinite space to hold said items, whether it's big or small.
Still, there were magic scrolls and spells that can allow one to be constructed. There were requirements, however. Because the spell was complex and complicated, it requires two people with strong magic to create it. Hence why the sisters are in preparation. There were other requirements, but those can wait after the box has been created.
"Alright, let's do it." Serafina sighed as she stood opposite from where Mercy is.
Together, as Mercy started the spell, they poured all lot of magic into the creation of the box. According to legends, the sun jeweled box can only be given to someone of a pure heart. The sisters knew full well that Brigid has one and is therefore, worthy of the chest. After what felt like an hour, the box finally manifested.
Drained in magic and energy, the sisters collapsed on their knees, feeling extremely exhausted from successful creating the mystical box. Panting, Serafina tried to summon fire in her hand, but the flame flickered before extinguishing.
"It's no use. We've already used a lot of our magic in creating the box, Serafina." Mercy explained. "It will take a while for us to regain our powers again at full strength."
"I know." the older sister let out a long sigh. "So, what do we have to do next?"
"Well... The next part is easier." the younger sister assured, looking at the waterfall at the corner of her room.
After resting for no more than ten minutes, the Royal Guards begin the second step. There were many types of sun jeweled boxes - different shape, different decoration, different ways to use them - but for the sisters, they have to add it to their box that it became necessary. Splitting their materials, Serafina and Mercy parted ways to start on the second step individually.
It took nearly the entire afternoon to finish what they were making without using magic. That's right. Whatever they were making, it was done by hand. What was it they were making? Why, what it was were dolls that resemble themselves. The tiny rag dolls will act just like them, except their roles are similar to fairies in waiting. Not long until Mercy finished hers, Serafina came into her room to drop off her doll before leaving to watch over Brigid. Mercy was both glad and a bit sad. Alone in her room, she was only accompanied by the pestering voice of her master.
Over the years, she gotten used to her master's voice talking to her in her head as well as ignoring her completely. It would only be Meranda whom she was willing to listen to. With the two tiny dolls in her hands, Mercy enchanted them to life with a little magic. The tiny dolls might be inactive now, but by placing a piece of their consciousness inside the plaything, they should come to life once they, themselves, have "gone to sleep".
With that out of the way, Mercy thought back to what King Henryk had requested from her after his confrontation with the Royal Advisor earlier today.
She was aware of what had happened in the Arcane Lab. After waking up, Mercy took back control and was able to keep the memories she gained. Despite she was asleep at that time, through Meranda and partially through the Royal Advisor, she gained access to the memories and knowledge of the events that had occurred in that room, almost like an out of body experience. It helped fill in the blanks in her memories. It was after she regained control that King Henryk approached her.
"Mercy, I have a request."
"What is it?"
"Do you have a potion that can be used to get an item passed the barrier surrounding the kingdom?" he inquired.
"Why would you need it?" she pressed for answers.
"I need it to deliver a message." was his answer.
After that, Mercy gave him the potion she used to get her lotus flower out of the kingdom. As he obtained what he needs, the girl just watched worriedly before returning to her room where Serafina was waiting for her.
'I'm sorry, Your Majesty, but I don't think your plan will work. Master is just too cleaver.' she thought melancholy.
Frustrated and upset, the doll stood abruptly, moving the chair as it grinds with the snow. Tired, the Royal Guard moved away from her desk. Taking the tiny fairy dolls that resembles themselves, Mercy went to her little pool at the end of her large room. Taking off her shoes, the girl dipped her feet into the water. It was soothing to her. Placing the dolls on her lap, Mercy began to recite an incantation. These fairy dolls... If there comes a time when Brigid feels down, they will sing and dance in an attempt to cheer her up.
After all, they might not be able to be there for her in the future. So, these little dolls will have to take their place. They won't be just imbued with magic, but a piece of their consciousness. That way, at least these dolls will have some similar traits to her and Serafina. Finished with the spell, Mercy sent the dolls to where the tent will be.
Besides, she was in her little pool. Might as well retrieve it - the flutes that she once created. Taking the case out from behind the waterfall, the water doll opened it to find both the ice flute and the ice leaf inside. Soon... These musical instruments will belong to Brigid. Closing the box with a sigh, Mercy got out of the pool and put them inside the tent along with everything else.
'I need to sort out my needs and desires.' she thought.
She knew what they were, but it was hard deciding what she needed most. Her desire is to accomplish her mission... But her need is to understand human emotions better. Now, let's be clear, she doesn't want to help the Royal Advisor. And yet, at the same time, she sort of yearns for recognition from her master. It was such a pitiful situation to be in. She was like a little girl, begging for the attention of her mother, who refuses to look at her. That allegory is the best she could come up with to describe her situation.
"I can never be satisfied." Mercy lightly laughed at herself. "Like mother, like daughter. I guess the sins of that woman has finally caught up to me."
Walking over to her drawer, she pulled out the potion she made that was kept inside her music box. If things were to get out of control, then she would have to drink it. Would this be the right time? After a long time of thoughts and consideration, the doll shook her head before putting the vial away.
'I shouldn't waste it now...'
After taking a small walk, Mercy decided to go to the Palace Library. It was there that the doll began to reflect on herself. Despite she made Brigid promise to destroy her one day no matter what the situation was, she started to become fearful. If she was being completely honest to herself, she would wanted to live. Oh, what a contradicting and conflicting girl she is. Doesn't know what she wants or what to do. She was afraid of dying because if she dies, she'll be all alone, right?
"Even though... Being alone is what's best for me..." she spoke sadly to herself. "To disappear from their lives is what's best for them."
It was the same with her desires. She wants to experience emotions, yet afraid of getting betrayed by them. And now, she wants to live, but at the same time, wants to die if she can't be with her love ones. Such conflict... Knowing too much, she can never return to those happy idyllic life she once had. All she could do is move forward and prepare. She can't stay indecisive forever. Eventually, a choice will have to be made.
Shaking her head, Mercy snapped out of her negative thoughts. This is not the time to be thinking such things, not yet anyway. Suddenly, the doll began to experience a violet fit of coughing. Her head started to hurt as she grabbed for a shelf to keep her from falling from the dizziness she felt.
'Why am I...?' she stopped mid thought.
Placing a hand on her chest, the doll can feel the emotional burden place onto her heart. If she continues with her melancholy thoughts from before, the strain might be too much for her. Hm, could her strange fever be the result of the emotional strain on her core? Is that the reason why?
Sighing to herself, the doll stayed like that for a moment before resuming to what she was doing - picking books to put inside the tent. There are some stories that Mercy personally feel that Brigid wound like to read. The Princess doesn't come to the library very often, so she would missed out on some fun storytelling.
After gathering what she needed, the water doll head out of the building.
Back to the Snow Room, just as Mercy was about to put the books inside the tent, she heard her voice.
"Mercy, I need to talk to you."
Without responding, the water doll stopped what she was doing and made her way up the stairs and to bed. Sighing as she lay down, she close her eyes as she dives to her subconscious. There, she met with Meranda again, who was stretching out her hand. Accepting that hand, Mercy found herself in a white box-shaped like room.
"Where are we?" she questioned.
"Somewhere where Master won't be able to disturb us. Here, we can have our conversation privately." Meranda explained.
"You said you needed to talk to me. What is it?"
"I'm sure you have realized, but because a fracture of Master's soul has resides within me... Through me, you have access to her memories and powers, though how limited they are."
"Yes. Those dreams... They're part of Master's foresight."
"When the green lion devours the sun, her revenge will be complete." Meranda recites.
"The green lion is made out of mercury and sulfur symbolizes the sun." Mercy slowly continues. "Serafina... Master's plans for revenge will happen if I..."
"That... Isn't all that I wished to talk to you." Meranda finally spoke.
"What?"
"I wanted to express my true feelings now that I have that chance." the splintered soul revealed. "Master keeps on claiming that I'm the better one, but she couldn't be more wrong."
"Where are you getting from this?"
"Sometimes, all those negative thoughts and feelings of mine just overflows. No matter how much I tried, eventually... My emotions will slowly show until I break down." the other half explained. "I don't like it when I break down. In fact, I really hate it. Especially when it's in front of someone, no matter who they are or what relationship I have with them... I feel vulnerable as I break down. It feels like I'm exposing my weakness - my vulnerabilities, for anyone and everyone to see and judge. That's why I tend to isolate myself in order to cry because no one could know of my weakness. I don't want anyone to see me hurting, my pain..."
Mercy was quiet since she was aware. Many times, she could never confide her feelings to her sisters. She just felt like it was meant for her to deal with herself.
'Just like me...' she thought sadly.
"Sometimes, these thoughts I have do more damage to me that I think it does. Whether it's because of the lack of maternal guidance or failing to meet with expectations and looked at disapprovingly, I would wished that I never existed - that I just... Disappear from everyone's lives. I feel like a burden that everyone wants to get rid of or not have to worry about."
"You don't really mean that..." Mercy tried to comfort her other half.
Meranda looked up at her, "You and I both know that you definitely don't want that - showing your weakness, I mean. Perhaps, by showing tears, you are hurting. I don't blame you, even I hate myself. Back then, when we were just one, you wouldn't want to show emotions. It wasn't because you didn't understand them. You didn't want to show any because it's like showing weakness."
"What do you mean...?"
"Don't play dumb. You have love from Serafina and Brigid, perhaps some affection from Master. You love your sisters and your love is expressed as loyalty for Master. But there is one person whom you don't love nor do you feel that they have the rights to deserve it... Yourself. Now that we are split into two, let's face the facts. You really hate me for being the weaker half of you."
Mercy was puzzled by this and looked away. She couldn't really deny it. Everything that Meranda had said was true. She didn't like to express her sorrows for anyone to see. Because it made her looked weak, she has grown to hate feeling sad. But... Since Meranda is the exact embodiment of that emotions, wouldn't that mean the she hates her other half? That she hates herself? Despite it is a bit convoluted and Mercy didn't admit it, it was true.
Turning to look at Meranda once more, Mercy inquired, "Since you are me, if you didn't contain Master's soul... What would you want?"
The fractured soul looked up and gazed at the distance as if looking for something. However, her eyes suggested that what she wants isn't obtainable.
She softly spoke, "I want many things. But amongst all that I desire, I simply wanted to be proven wrong. That my existence isn't a burden to anyone - that I could be looked at and be loved. I wanted to have hope."
Feeling pity for her other half, Mercy was about to reach out to her, "Maybe you could..."
However, Meranda stopped her just as Mercy was about to reach her hand, "Don't."
"What?"
"It's too late. Now that Master has attached herself to me, that desire of mine has become impossible. You shouldn't get close to me." she warned. "Once you get attracted to evil, you'll get tainted as well. And then the people will to call you... A witch like me."
Just before Mercy could utter a word, the box like room was beginning to crack. Ah, it seems that the fragment of the Royal Advisor's soul was interfering, breaking the room. A sad smile appeared on Meranda's face before she mutter a farewell as the room disappeared, allowing the invasive soul to once again cling onto her.
Waking up from her forced sleep, Mercy let out a frustrated sigh.
Finding Serafina at the Outer Wall, they had another talk. Earlier that day when Mercy told Serafina about what their master had told her, Serafina didn't took the news very well. Now, she came with a warning: don't get close to the Royal Advisor.
"Haven't I been doing exactly that?" Serafina somewhat asked harshly.
"I know..." Mercy spoke calmly, although there was a hint of guilt behind her tone.
The older guard let out a sigh, "I'm sorry, Mercy. I shouldn't snapped at you like that."
"No, it's fine." she insisted. "I was foolish in dedicating my loyalty to her. I deserve some reprehension."
"Tell you what. How about we have a fight?" Serafina suggested. "It might help us vent out all our frustrations."
"Sure."
At the Smelting Chamber, the sisters went to the armory to grabbed some weapons. Of course, they both took swords since it was Serafina's idea to have another sword fight. While the older sister took only one sword, Mercy took two. When questioned about duel wielding, the younger sister insisted that she wanted to test using both hands.
"You know, I didn't think you would follow me to get a pair of metal weapons." Serafina started. "I'd assume you'd just used your powers to make them like before."
Reminded of how Meranda created that ice sword, Mercy insisted, "I rather use the weapons here. I would like to avoid another... Accident."
"Right..."
Taking what they needed, the Royal Guards left the chamber for the Training Ground near the forest. Before their fight, they set down some rules. Since it was more like a fight to test their resources, using magic will be allowed. But how to decide the victor? Both sisters have a ribbon of their respective color tied around their left arm. Whoever managed to pull the ribbon away from their opponent is the victor.
"Don't hold back on me, Serafina."
"I won't."
"Good."
Taking their stances, both sisters' looks harden, waiting. Silence. Eventually, they both ran forward and clashed their swords as a metallic sound rang. Both side glared at the other. To get out of the block, Mercy used her other sword to strike one before twirling around to send another strike, forcing Serafina back. With her sister distracted, she went in for another strike. So far, Mercy has been doing the attacking while Serafina was doing all the blocking.
Using her magic, the older sister managed to get some distance after forcing her younger sister back. She charged, taking the girl by surprised as she quickly disarmed one of the swords. But before she could reached for the blue ribbon around Mercy's arm, the younger sister used her other sword to block, causing Serafina to retract her hand before striking the long blade with her own.
"Had enough yet, sis?" Serafina questioned.
Mercy scoffed, "As if!"
Glancing downwards, she step onto her older sister's foot before pushing her back.
"Ow! That's not really fair, Mercy!"
"Do you expect anyone to fight fair?" the guard questioned. "That's not how the world works. Besides, you never said we can't fight dirty."
The two paused for a moment, gathering energy before quickly resuming to their fight. Charging at each other, the sisters let out a battle cry before clashing their swords again. Neither relents as they stood their ground. Attempting to get Mercy's guard down, Serafina tried to pull the same trick done to her earlier. The water doll didn't fall for it easily, but that was the plan. With her sister busy on keeping her feet from getting stepped on, Serafina strike with her sword, forcing the girl back.
Mercy took a quick swing and duct, attempting to reach out for the red ribbon only to dodge Serafina's strike. To avoid getting hit, she did a back flip to get away from her opponent. The fiery girl charged at her, pushing many multiple swings as she blocked them all. After clashing their weapons yet again, both sisters were nearly out of breath.
"You put up a great effort, Mercy." Serafina complimented.
"You too." she replied with a determined look.
"But I guess now is the time for me to give it my all."
"I agree. Otherwise, we'd be at a stalemate."
In a short moment of retreat, the sisters jumped back, away from the other. Using her fire powers, Serafina imbued the blade with fire as she took her battle stance. Mercy was a bit amused as she was about to do the same. However, she frown as she felt a jolt of pain in her body.
'W-Why now? Why did I suddenly feel pain right now?'
Noticing the look of hesitation in her sister's eyes, Serafina's determined look grew into confusion with a hint of concern.
"Are you okay, Mercy?"
"Yes, it was nothing." she insisted.
Once the younger Royal Guard charged, the fight was resumed. This time, Serafina stood her ground. She wasn't going to clash swords. Instead, performing a spell, the older guard swings her sword, sending a blast of fire towards her charging sister. Having enough time to react, Mercy jumped while spiraling forward, dodging the magic before dissolving her body into liquid. The trail of water continue to move forward as Serafina continued firing her magic. Once she got close, Mercy materialized, bringing her sword down. However, it was blocked by the fiery blade.
Having failed her attack, the younger guard retreated, using her powers over water to form mist around her older sister. Of course, Serafina counters by overheating the air, dissipating the mist. But by the time the mist got all cleared, her sister was gone. Confused, but on guard, the older sister kept a sharp look at her surrounding.
After taking a step, she heard a twig snapped. Quickly, Serafina turned around just in time to deflect a blast of ice that was heading her way. Having failed on that attack, Mercy revealed herself. Once more, they ran into each other, hoping to disarm their opponent's weapons. Just as Serafina was about to swing her weapon, her sword hand was caught by Mercy's free hand. In order to defend herself, she caught her younger sister's sword hand in retaliation. With both sides neither getting anywhere they were both forced to separate before engaging in close range again.
During the fight, Serafina began to notice that something was bothering Mercy based on how hard she was attacking. It was in her eyes too. She never seen her sister fought with so much passion before. And yet, there was this look of pain and frustration. It was like she cannot afford to lose, no matter what the cost.
Meanwhile, Mercy was being careful with her actions. So many things were on her mind at once, she felt like she was going to get distracted. However, she was trying too hard. Earlier in the fight, she was doing fine. She was actually enjoying herself. But after feeling that jolt of pain, that enjoyment and experience was gone now, replaced with bothersome emotions and memories.
She really doesn't understand herself and it was really frustrating to not even know oneself anymore! Who is she? Why is she here? What is her purpose in this world? Is she a doll? Was she once human? What was her past? What will happen in the future? Does she still envies Serafina? Is that why she grown to hate herself? She doesn't know! And it was very vexing!
"Mercy, is everything alright?"
"It's alright, stop worrying about me!" her tone came out cold and distant.
Suddenly, storm clouds started to gather causing it to rain. With the environment changing, it could give her an advantage. Charging forward, Mercy attacked. But with each hit, it was blocked by Serafina. Eventually, the older guard managed to disarmed her, but she was unable to reach the blue ribbon.
Just as Serafina was about to take another shot at her, Mercy grabbed her sword hand and push the arm down. With her other hand, Mercy got hold of the red ribbon. But because she was reckless and defenseless, it didn't stop Serafina from also getting a hold of her blue ribbon. Both pulled at the ribbon at the same time, causing a draw. But the fight was not over yet. If it were to end a tie, then the loser will have to be defeated by their opponent. How? By having a sword up to their face while they are on the ground.
Using her magic, Mercy sent a direct blast of water at her sister, causing distance between them. Even without a weapon to defend herself, she cannot lose. Now switching to only magic base attacks, she would fire at Serafina while she was in the air. Unfortunately for her older sister, she was too distracted at what was firing towards her in the front to notice small details. Tiny details such as Mercy planting tiny ice shards around her sister. Once everything was set, Mercy landed on the ground on her feet.
"It seems that you are at your limit, Mercy. You're disarmed and your magic didn't reach me."
"I wouldn't be so sure about that. Take another look." Mercy advised.
Taking her advice, Serafina look around her surroundings. Seeing the ice shards around her, she didn't have time to react when all the ice activated, causing icy chains to sprang out of them. The chains bind around the fire doll, forcing her to her knees. Picking up her sword, Mercy was making her way towards her sister.
'I cannot lose. I have to win.'
Meanwhile, the Royal Advisor was in her room. In her hands was a little doll and a needle. With a smile on her face, she was playing around with the doll with the needle gently trailing against the fabric, barely even touching it. No more playtime. With the needle firmly in her hands, she stabbed the voodoo doll on its right foot.
From her years of experience, the witch knew one thing. If something tries to escape from you, the best way to stop them is to attack their legs. And that is what she has done. This is her way of showing power to those who are inferior to her. And let it be a reminder to those who think they can get away with scheming behind her back. If they think they can escape, think again.
Unfortunately, back to the Training Ground, just as she was reaching midway to her goal, Mercy finally overexerts herself and fallen to the ground. For a brief second, she thought she felt pain on her right foot. Because of her broken concentration, the icy chains melted away, freeing Serafina. Although the older guard got up, she didn't care about the fight anymore. She ran to Mercy's side as the girl slowly sat up.
"Hah... Hah..." she was breathing heavily, sweat was on her face.
"Mercy, you cannot be okay." her sister insisted as she tried lending a hand.
Slapping the hand away and denying any help, the fallen sister continued to hide her eyes by staring at the ground.
"You shouldn't make a big deal out of it. I... I-I just trip, that's all. Stop overreacting."
Her voice sounded strained and the tone sounded forced.
"Not a big deal? What's wrong with you?" Serafina became a little bit upset as she started to check her sister's temperature after noticing her irregular breathing. "Ah! You're overheating!"
"It's nothing to be worried about. I'm fine..."
"No, you're not fine. I'm not going to continue battling you now that I learn that you are harboring a fever." the older guard replied sternly. "I'm taking you back to your room. Give me your arm. I'll lend you my shoulder."
Letting out a defeated sigh, Mercy begrudgingly complies and allowed Serafina to help her get to her room. Once they finally reached their destination, the girl sort of coldly told her sister off, wishing to be left alone. Her request was met with no complaints. Sitting at the edge of her pool, Mercy wrapped her arms around her knee with the other submerged in the water.
'I'm weak, aren't I? What a joke. How can I really defy Master when I can't even prove myself today? I really hate myself.' she thought negatively.
Looking down at her hands, she realized that they were shaking, "I'm trembling..."
'Even though I accepted my fate, I'm afraid. I'm afraid of facing the inevitable. Everything...' she continued as she lowered her head.
Indeed, she was afraid of what the future the Royal Advisor has planned for her. Everything she wants would usually be undone by what she fears. Despite she accept her inevitable demise should the time come, she was afraid of dying. Even though she wants to save Brigid, she was afraid to do so by confronting her. She wants to make amends with her other self and make her soul whole again, but was afraid of confronting the Royal Advisor.
And it's because of that fear that makes her acknowledge the consequences of her actions - it has made her want to look only after herself. That is why she has become more selfish then she has intended. Yet, despite she has grown a selfish mindset, it did made her feel a hint of pride to herself. Humans are selfish beings. Could this be a sign that she is becoming more human despite it's not the way she wishes to go?
After some time, dusk started to settle in before the sky was tainted by darkness. In his room, King Henryk was going down memory lane. To be honest, remembering his time as a young boy was quite embarrassing, but also comforting at the same time.
Back when Henryk was just the Prince of the Grak Kingdom... On his sixteenth birthday, he stood next to his father, the King. It was a time when the former King declared that his son, Prince Henryk, will be the heir to the throne and the people's future King in the Old Throne Room. Everyone was cheering for him as he stared somewhat coldly at everyone. He didn't know how to react, honestly. When the declaration occurred, an after party for the heir started. Many teenagers around his age were dancing in the ballroom, but not him.
No, he was too socially awkward to ask anyone out for a dance. Especially when it was a girl. He would stutters and then it would all backfire. The girls would have lost interest in him. So, to spare the trouble of making a fool of himself, he didn't approach any of them. Walking to the windows, he stared dejectedly at the Royal Garden. Why the long face? Well, ever since he was young, he had heard that he has been betrothed to a Princess of a neighboring kingdom. He never met her, so he was worried if he'll liked her. It has been bothering his mind for a long time. As he continued to gaze outside, his eyes wander before his attention was caught. Out in the gardens was a girl with blonde hair, wearing a white and green dress.
She was picking flowers happily as if there wasn't a care for the world. Curious, the young Prince sneaked out of the after party and went to the garden. There, he saw the girl a few feet away from him. She was humming a melody so merrily as she continued to pick from the garden.
"Ahem." Prince Henryk cleared his voice.
"Oh, hello." the girl smiled warmly at him.
Her smile has taken the Prince aback. For a second, he was sure that his heart skipped a beat. She was even more beautiful than when he saw her at the window. With her carefree expression and beautiful green eyes...
'Oh my, is this girl an angel?'
"Um... What are you doing...?" he tried to start a conversation.
"Picking flowers obviously. Tell me, what is your favorite?" the girl asked.
Looking around the garden, a single flower came into mind.
"P-Pink roses..."
"I see it!" the girl exclaimed as she ran over to the rose bush to pick the flower. Very happily, she pin the flower onto his vest before stepping back and admiring her work. "Oh, your face is red..."
"Uh no, it's not!" the Prince denies as the girl giggled.
"Where are you from?"
"I live here. From what land do you come from?"
"Huh?"
"You're dressed differently, so you can't be from the Grak Kingdom." he elaborated.
"Am I that easy to figure out?" she teased. "I'm from the neighboring kingdom."
"I see... So why are you here?"
"My father made me attend today's festivities. However, I don't really like going out to parties. They're not really for me." the girl explained. "So I sneaked out. I was going to walk around the kingdom until the party ends, but then I stumble upon this beautiful garden. The flowers here are so pretty, I just had to pick a few."
"I don't think you're suppose to pick them..." Prince Henryk trailed off.
"Oh? Is that so..." the girl looked down, a bit disappointed.
"B-But since this is your first visiting, I don't think they would mind." he tried to assured.
"Really!?" she laughed. "Oh, thank goodness."
As he smiled, a hint of blush appeared on his face. This girl was different from any other girl. She's very spirited and talking to her was a major improvement. Wanting to show the girl around since she did mentioned that she loves taking walks, Henryk was about to suggest the idea, but the bells began to rang. They signifies that the dancing is about to end.
'At this time?' he thought, a bit disappointingly.
"Ah! I have to get back to the ball before my father realize that I'm missing!" the girl panicked.
"Come with me. I know a shortcut."
Without asking for permission and to help the girl so she doesn't get into trouble, Henryk grabbed her hand and ran back to the Grak Palace, taking the girl with him. They ran into the building, but instead of going down the hallway that leads to the Ballroom, the Grak Prince made a sharp turn and into a different room. There, he showed the girl a secret passage that leads to the Old Throne Room. Together, they traveled down the passage way and at the other end, wound up in the Ballroom.
"Thank you, um..." the girl paused, not knowing the boy's name.
"Henryk... Prince Henryk." he introduced.
"Thank you, Prince Henryk." the girl gave a small curtsy. "I'll see you later."
"W-Wait!" he wanted to ask for her name...
Oh well... Perhaps some other time. With nothing else to do, the Prince returned to his father. The Grak King noticed his son's sudden appearance and began to question where he was. The boy answered that he was merely helping someone out when they needed it, earning a praise from his father.
"That's good, my son. As future King... Henryk, to be a good, wise ruler of the Grak Kingdom, you must put your people's needs before your own." he advised.
"Yes, Father."
Prince Henryk took his father's advice very seriously. He had always idolized his father and wishes to aspire like him. His father is a wonderful ruler and a good listener. If only he could be brave and have the courage that his father possess... Then, perhaps he wouldn't be so socially awkward around everyone. His father is the only person he felt comfortable in confiding his feelings to. Him and partly that girl too...
Thinking back to that girl again, the Prince wondered who was he betrothed to. He thought back to his engagement to the Princess. He never seen her or know what her personality is like. That was worrisome. Although he believed in love at first sight, he didn't rebelled against his father when he learn of the news. His father is a wise man and it's for the better of the kingdom. Still, he wished he knew who his future bride will be.
"Ah, you're here!" his father exclaimed, breaking the Prince of his train of thoughts. "Welcome to my kingdom."
"It's been an honor to meet you, King Krakus." the man replied. "I am King Kasper from the Evergreen Kingdom."
"It is our pleasure to have you visiting the kingdom." Prince Henryk explained, giving a bow out of respect.
"This must be your son, Prince Henryk. An honor to meet you too." King Kasper answered. "Your Majesty, I believe it's time for us to discuss of the arrangement."
"That's right. Son, this man will be your future father in law." the Grak King explained, earning a slow nod from the Prince. "If I am mistaken, but where is your daughter?"
"Oh, she's coming. She is always a little late." King Kasper laugh lightly at the girl's antics.
"I'm sorry I'm late!" a voice cried out.
"There she is..." the girl's father remarked.
Hearing the voice, Henryk blinked. That voice, he knows that voice. Running up to them was the girl he met earlier! Out of breath, she clumsily gave a curtsy while lowering her head.
"Please forgive me for my rudeness." she replied.
"You don't have to worry about that, child. You're forgiven." King Krakus replied. "Well, son? Aren't you going to introduce yourself? It would be rude not to do so in front of your future bride."
However, the Prince was shock and tongue-tied. This girl was going to be his wife in the future?
"Hello, I am Princess Wanda. Please to meet-" looking up, Wanda paused having saw Henryk again for the second time. "It's you!"
"Oh, you two met before?" her father asked.
"Yes..."
However, words cannot reach the Prince's ears right now. He was in his little mind, trying to comprehend what was going on. Her name is Wanda. Wanda, what a beautiful name. Since that time, Henryk hoped to be a suitable husband for his future wife. At the same time, he aspire to be like his father. After the party has ended, the children were forced to separate. King Kasper had promised that Wanda will return on her 18th birthday so she can move in and learn about the Grak Kingdom's culture before her marriage to Henryk. That would be four years. He would have to wait for four years for her return.
Until then, he will learn hard to obtain what he desire. And so, his journey into becoming a good King and a wonderful husband has started...
Alas, it didn't turn out very well like he had hoped, upon reflection. He couldn't be like his father nor was he probably a good husband. After those four years of preparation, losing himself in his studies defeated the purpose of growing out of his shell. As a result, when Princess Wanda returned, he was so struck in her beauty that he couldn't even properly talk with her. As for being a good father... That was up in the air. He rarely spend time with his daughter, always locking himself in his studies.
He regretted it. Everything. The only thing he doesn't regret is adopting Brigid. But everything after is what he regrets. Trusting the Royal Advisor, foolishly underestimating her. As for the sisters... He doesn't really regret their creation. Because of them, his daughter was happy while he wasn't around. Although, he regretted not making sure that the witch would tamper with their purpose. They were pitiful, really. And his daughter... How he regretted not spending enough time with her. She probably hates him or thinks that he is the worse parent of her life.
"Enough thinking like that." he muttered to himself.
He has to focus with what comes next. Thinking his of message to Nuada, there was a reason why he set a date for the meeting on April 14th. He needed time to prepare and gather the necessary requirements to make some explosives. Two months should suffice. And so, it was decided. By the end of March, his plan shall start.
Meanwhile, in the Snow Room, standing in the middle of her pool was Mercy. However, is it really Mercy? No. It was Meranda who was in control. Although, this time, it was different. Mercy had willingly allowed her other half to be in control right now. Her reasoning was because of the somber mindset she was in, so she wished to be alone. Hence why Meranda is now in control. Currently, the soul of the Royal Advisor wasn't active at the moment, so it was truly the embodiment of sadness inhabiting her dominant soul's body.
Placing a hand on her chest, Meranda thought melancholy.
"The usurped destiny that leads up to the messed up scenario..." she sadly remarked. "This body made out of mud has already been contaminated by sin."
'Very soon, it'll only be marred and stained even more because of her pride.'
She knew ever since the Royal Advisor attached herself to her... That this body has only become an extended host for the Spirit of Pride. Despite Mercy has only become aware of it just now, she known since the very beginning.
Clang
"Hm?" Meranda's attention was drawn to the chirping of the birds that Mercy had found earlier today.
After she and Serafina had gathered materials to create the beautiful sun jeweled box for their beloved sister, the pair of blue birds were kept in a cage to recuperate. Getting out of the pool, Meranda walked over to the cage, feeling the soft powdery snow under her feet. Looking over at the cage, she frowned, having understand why the blue bird was flapping her wings frantically and chirping. The younger sister has fallen from the swing and was unresponsive.
It couldn't possibly be dead, could it? Opening the cage, Meranda took out the younger bird to examine it. Feeling the soft blue feather, she tried to get the little creature to respond. However, none. What a shame. They were lovelier as pairs, but now there was only one left.
What could this all mean?
'Mercy?' she called out in her thoughts.
"Yes?"
'Would it be fine if I stay in control for a little while? I would like to talk to Serafina.'
"Sure."
With Mercy's permission, Meranda slipped on her slippers before exiting the room. It was obvious where to find her older sister. At the Viewing Tower, there she was. Climbing over the ledge to sit on it, she was at first reluctant to start the conversation. Luckily, the older guard started it.
"Are you feeling better, Mercy?" Serafina asked.
"Yeah..."
Meranda decided not to correct her sister. For one, it would only bring confusion. Two, technically she is Mercy... Just not the Mercy she knew. Staring at the familiar starry sky, the smaller half felt nostalgia. But... It's a scenery that won't last long. Still... Remembering all those happy times, it did brought a small smile to her face.
Giggling, she wondered, "Do you think we've been spoiling Brigid?"
"Of course not. We never spoiled her." Serafina answered.
"Well, you seem to spoil her with that complex of yours." Meranda remarked.
"Watch it." the older sister warned.
Laughing lightly, Meranda looked on sadly as she recalled what Mercy had wanted to ask of Serafina, "Are you going to miss it? Living like this?"
"I wished it didn't have to end..." was her response.
"Me too, but it wouldn't have last regardless." Meranda sadly sighed. "We're merely dolls pretending to be humans."
"Just because we're pretending to be humans, doesn't mean the emotions we learned and felt are fake."
"I know, I'm just..." she sighed. "I'm just tired of it all. I don't want it to end."
Lightly leaning her head on Serafina's shoulders for comfort, Meranda closed her eyes to avoid having to shed tears. Only seeking darkness, she heard her sister's response.
"Yeah... So do I."
1) That little teaser in the beginning... I wonder what's that all about? Hehehe, not telling you guys :p
2) I might as well tell you one thing. And since Eipix introduce the soul splitting concept in TMGLP, this is now perfect to explain the entire thing about Meranda. (I'm still surprised that they did that. I thought I'm the only one who think of these kind of things. Like this and dolls coming to life).
Meranda is... An entity you could say. She is born out of Mercy's sorrow and hopelessness and the Royal Advisor's pride and wraith. However, I refer her as Mercy's "other half" because she once originates from Mercy before a fragment of the Royal Advisor's soul got to her, causing the split.
Now, since Meranda is Mercy's other half, this means that the Royal Advisor has already possessed half of Mercy. Mercy, herself, has not been possessed. Usually, Meranda - under the Royal Advisor's influence - would take control. Though, possession of Mercy happens subconsciously, the witch never directly possess her bodily. It would only happen through Meranda.
And since Eipix used the soul splitting concept, you guys already know that Amelia's soul was split into pure good and evil. It's the same with Mercy, except it's between normal Mercy and more depressed Mercy. Let's make it more convoluted and add a hint of evil into the sadness. That sadness isn't evil, but sometimes that evil overwhelms the sadness. That's why with Meranda, whenever she talks and act haughty, that is the Royal Advisor talking. Whenever Meranda express sadness, doubt, hopeless, that's literally Mercy's sorrow talking.
3) The confrontation between Henryk and Cailleach. I had to make the King age faster because from the portraits, he looks to be in his mid fifties? I don't know much, but that seems like a good age to grow a long beard and have your hair greyed completely.
4) The sun jewel box is a reference to the original story. Plus, I had wondered where Brigid would go if she was spending the night in the forest. It must take a lot of time to travel around without food. And I wonder, if one has a box that can store many items inside it, wouldn't it come in handy for an investigation case? Hm, I am curious if the Detective might have one of the seven true boxes. I mean, where does she keep the items she requires from picking it out from areas and FROGs? Plus, in this chapter, it is revealed that there were seven originals. What happen to those?
5) Welcome to King Henryk's backstory of his first meeting of Wanda when they were children. Wasn't expecting that, didn't you? Krakus was the historical Princess Wanda's father, but because his name has Krak/Grak in it, I made him Henryk's father instead.
6) I know that Wanda possibly met King Henryk when she went to the Grak Kingdom for their marriage, but nowhere in the game did it said that it was their first meeting. They could have met as children for a short period of time, grew up and reunited again. It would still work because I found a loophole!
7) Pink rose symbolism - A classic symbol of grace and elegance, the pink rose is often given as a token of admiration and appreciation.
8) I think this is the first chapter that Brigid doesn't appear it, minus for the first.
Alright guys. Good news, by the time you've read this chapter, I've already uploaded chapter 14, the last chapter. So, I want you guys to do my a favor before you go on to read the final chapter.
Please type one of these numbers after your review. If you want me to do anything related to TMGLP, type 1 in the review. If you want me to do my version of the MG story, type 2. I cannot do both at the same time.