1. My friend D4RKV1N3 is doing a Kingdom Hearts x MHA story that is connected to my story, go check it out. It is called "Beyond Darkness: Plus Ultra!", go give it a check. The timeline for this is D4RKV1N3's story takes place at the beginning of Arc 5 of my story.
2. Before reading this, keep in mind there will be some Arc 6 spoilers of the main story with some changes.
Chapter 55: Gathering forces
Sora and the group had taken a few days in traveling towards the mansion with Julius and Anastasia learning that Sora and Subaru are from other worlds. Sora knows that once Donald learns of this, he will not hear the end of this. As the group was arriving towards the second mansion, the group looked outside the carriage to see Yabuto, Kishida, and Waraki all three doing their usual training with Frederica observing the training session. Sora observed closely on their fight and can tell that they had improved their fighting styles within the few days he alongside the others were gone since each attack was sharp and their defense were swift.
Kishida had managed to prove himself to be on the same level has his friends now, being able to use his hook hand to deflect a couple attacks when his sword is not available. Julius observed the three knights, having recalled his time when the four of them were undergoing training to become official knights of Lugnica. He knows that the three had gotten stronger, with Kishida being probably being even more skilled than he was when he had both his arms.
'Although you have a handicap, I can tell that you are more skilled than when you were during the fight against the Witch cult and the Sin Archbishop of Sloth.'
As the group was closing in towards the mansion, Frederica looked at their direction and quickly alerted the three knights that Sora, Subaru, and the others had returned. The four of them quickly made their way towards the carriage, all four of them happy to see the Emilia camp having returned from their trip to Priestella. Once the carriage had stopped, Subaru opened the door with everyone following the boy out. Frederica had noticed that Garfiel wasn't with the group, causing her to worry about her little brother. She approached Subaru to ask what happened at the watergate city.
"Subaru-sama, what happened to Garf? Also where is Otto-san?"
"Ah yes, they are both helping the city get rebuild after the Witch cult and the Organization had attacked the city."
"Witch cult?"
Waraki spoke out with some interest in his voice, now wishing that he went with the group instead of staying and defending the mansion. Subaru, Sora, and Julius all three turned towards Waraki, all three knowing that he has an interest because the Witch cult was mentioned. Subaru quickly tried changing the subject by saying,
"Aside from that, we had taken care of it. Master Sora took down the Sin Archbishop of Wrath and Reinhard, that Xehanort guy, myself, and also Master Sora managed to take down the Sin Archbishop of Greed."
"Wow, that is impressive newbie."
"Damn it, I wish I was there to see the jackass who took my arm die but congrats Subaru for managing to pull this off."
"Yeah, I also wish I was there to help but I'm glad you all made it out alive."
Yabuto, Kishida, and Waraki all three patted Subaru in the back, all three proud that their friend was involved in beating the Sin Archbishop of Greed. As the three were proud of their friend, they all noticed Julius, curious on who is this new knight since they don't remember him. Yabuto being the leader of the three approached Julius to introduce himself and his friends to the new knight.
"Hello there new knight, I don't think we have met. The name is Yabuto Jinzadashi, the leader of the three here. This two here are my partners Kishida Hisafumi and Waraki Seimoto."
"Ah yes, my name is Julius Juukulius, I'm Anastasia's one and only knight."
Yabuto, Kishida, and Waraki all three looked at Julius with a curious facial expression, noticing the last statement Julius said. Since gluttony took Julius' name, their memories of Julius are gone which for them mean that Anastasia never had a night when she was introduced in the royal selections. The only thing they recall was Ricardo representing as Anastasia's protector similar to how Sora declared Subaru has Emilia's knight. This caused Kishida to turn towards Anastasia to get some clarification from the merchant woman herself.
"Anastasia-sama, could you please explain this? Do you know this Julius Juukulius?"
"Ah yes, an explanation is needed. You see, Julius is my knight but during his fight against the Sin Archbishop of Gluttony, he somehow did something to my knight which caused all of us except Sora-sama and Subaru-sama to lose our memories of him."
"I see, so the witch cult yet again damaged another life. Those filthy bastards!"
Waraki held in a lot of anger inside him, hating how the Witch cult caused a lot of damage and he wasn't able to do anything. For many years he has been hunting down the witch cult and one day he will get his vengeance on the one who destroyed his homelands. He stood silent for a moment before being the first one to speak out about Julius' condition,
"Don't worry Julius-san, we will get back whatever the witch cult bastards took from you."
Julius takes note on what Waraki said and just gives him a nod, also motivated in wanting to get back his name from Roy. As the two give a mutual nod, Emilia turned to Frederica to ask her how things had been since they had left. Frederica noticed this and quickly responded with,
"Nothing bad has happened so far, Emilia-sama. Roswaal-sama has been quiet, doing his own things meanwhile Meili-chan has been keeping herself in check."
"Good to hear that Meili has been a good girl." Elsa spoke has she was happy to hear that her little sister in spirit had been behaving. Sora and Subaru both turned towards Frederica to ask if she knew where was Roswaal at this time.
"Roswaal-sama is in his room. Unsure on what he could be up to but I don't think it's anything bad."
"Of course he wouldn't, Ram-sama is keeping an eye on him." Rem spoke in defense of Roswaal, knowing that her sister is handling him.
"You are right, Rem-san. Ram-san is handling things has we speak."
The two maids nodded at each other before the group noticed Kenichi and Naoko both approaching them. Subaru noticed this and quickly went to hug his parents, happy to see them while they were happy to see that their son had returned safely to them. As the Natsuki family were all hugging, Kenichi looked around to notice that Garfiel wasn't around. This caused him to question his son on the whereabouts of his other son.
"What happened to little Garf? Where is your brother, Subaru?"
"Garfiel is with Otto back at the city we went to. The two are dealing with the aftermath of the witch cult attack."
"Witch cult?"
Both Naoko and Kenichi were a bit puzzled by this, since they were not given a proper explanation on the Witch cult or any other threats the Emilia camp will be facing. Julius stepped in to quickly explained all that happened in the watergate city.
"The Witch Cult, an organization of fanatic followers that worship the Witch of Envy. They attacked the city yet your son and his master were the keys in beating the Sin Archbishop of Wrath and the Sin Archbishop of Greed."
"My god. I hope nobody got hurt." Naoko spoke with some concern in her voice, worried on what exactly her sons had to deal with. She asked Subaru if she can check if he truly is alright before inspecting him. Subaru was caught off guard by this, causing him to feel slightly embarrassed yet he understood where his mother was coming from. As she checked for any injuries, Beatrice approached the scene to greet both Naoko and Kenichi. The two looked at the petite spirit and greeted her with a hug, both of them having seen the great spirit has a daughter after the long year together.
"It's good to see that you are alright, little beako."
"Thank you, I suppose. It is good to see you two again."
Beatrice had a hidden smile in her face, enjoying the warmth Subaru's parents were giving her. Like how Subaru makes her happy, Subaru's parents make Beatrice happy since they give her the same comfort Subaru gives. She is happy to be a part of the Natsuki household, happy to have a home that will make up the 400 years of pain she was in. As Beatrice was being carried by Kenichi, Naoko returned back to inspect Subaru before concluding that he is fine. As she finished, she noticed Emilia approaching them and she quickly went to greet her.
"Emilia-sama, it is good to see you once again. As my baby boy been acting good?"
"Mom!"
"Don't worry Naoko-san, Subaru has been a good boy."
"That's good to hear, my future daughter-in-law."
Emilia and Subaru's faces both turned red by this statement, both of them still not having gotten use to this statement. As the two were embarrassed, Naoko and Kenichi were both dumbfounded to see Emilia in a wedding dress, not having noticed it before.
"Emilia-sama, why are you in a wedding dress? What happened on your journey? Does that mean that-?"
"Nononononononono! It's not what it looks like!" Subaru tries to de-escalate the situation yet his parents were berating him for a bit, thinking that Subaru and Emilia are married now.
"Why didn't you invite me or your mother?! Was this part of your plan, my son?"
"Why didn't you let me be at the wedding?!"
Sora, Julius, Elsa, Yabuto, and the others all laughed at this, finding the entire situation funny despite how the events in the watergate city were darker and different. They watched has Subaru was trying to tell his parents that he isn't married to Emilia just yet but the two were not listening to him until Emilia was the one to inform them that it hasn't happened yet. As she was able to get their attention, she explained all that happened with Regulus and how Subaru saved her from that fate.
"That's my son, a badass just like his father!"
Kenichi patted his son's head while showing how proud he is in him before Sora asked Subaru if he can follow him to speak with Roswaal. Subaru nodded and the two were the first to head inside the mansion, knowing that they have to see if Roswaal knows anything about the sage. As they were heading inside, the rest of the group followed with everyone getting a spare change of clothing with the exception of Anastasia and Julius. The two waited outside with Yabuto, Kishida, and Waraki all three wanting to see how skilled Julius is.
As the group was all entering the mansion, Roswaal was in his office signing some paper works yet his mind was on something else. He recalled speaking with the man in the organization suit similar to the one Luxu had many years ago prior to him using the soul transferring method he had been doing for the past centuries. He recalls his time with a dear friend yet the person he met in the sanctuary reminded him a lot of him while also giving an odd feeling. He stopped writing and closed his eyes, recalling another meeting he had with this unknown person during the time since the Sanctuary incident. The last time they talked, Subaru and Sora had went with Otto to go clear his name in his homelands. Garfiel had stayed and since he didn't trust him, he would frequently check up on him.
"Gaaaaarfiel-kun, you don't neeeeed to check up on me so frequently."
"Shut yer trap! I don't trust ya!"
"That huuuurts."
"I outta punch ya again fer talkin' like we're friends."
Garfiel left angrily from the room, no longer wishing to be there since his hatred from Roswaal was increasing each second he was near the man that caused so much trouble for him and his family. As he left, Roswaal looked at his desk and continued to do his paper works for the Emilia camp. As he was writing, all he felt was guilt in his heart. He never thought that he would see Wilhelm once again, a friend from a previous Roswaal that he genuinely cared about. He was just surprised that he was able to keep his composure, then again he was also stunned by the fight between Sora and the six great warriors. Despite this, he still has guilt in his heart since he had done so many bad things all in hopes of getting his teacher back. As he was finishing up the work for the day, he could sense that someone was in the same room has he was in.
"Garfiel-kuuuun, is that you?"
"..."
Roswaal continued to keep his composure while knowing that the person in his room is not someone from the mansion. This made him think very carefully, not knowing whether the person in the room a threat or not, also he isn't sure how strong this person is as well. Roswaal got up and turned around towards the window, looking outside while speaking to the person.
"What exactly are you doing here?"
"That's weird, you got rid of your accent."
"Ah, so it is you again."
Roswaal turned to see the man in the coat once again, hiding his face just like the previous time they had spoken. He looked directly at the mysterious figure for a moment before returning into his usual attitude he has around the other people,
"What do yooooou want?"
"That voice is still creepy. Anyway, I'm here to just see if you wanted to accept this offer."
The mysterious being pulls out a book to which Roswaal immediately recognized has the tome of wisdom.
"That's...Beatrice's tome of wisdom! Where did you get that?!"
"I just found it. About to be burned with my book."
"You shouldn't have that!"
Roswaal charged directly at the mysterious person yet he wasn't able to land a hit with the mysterious person managing to easily evade the attacks. As he evades the attack, he quickly speaks in hopes of de-escalating the situation,
"Hold up, I'm not here for a fight. Besides, if you make any more noise, you will get the attention of that tiger boy."
"You shall hand over that book to me!"
"What? This one?" The mysterious figure shows Beatrice book.
"Yes. That doesn't belong to you."
"And you think it belongs to you?"
"I rather it be with me than with some outsider!"
Roswaal charges at the mysterious figure, managing to almost land a hit on him yet he was able to deflect the attack. The mysterious figure eventually managed to gain some distance while speaking to the clown in a calm gesture.
"Now remember our last conversation regarding about these books? I could've helped turn the tides but you were so confident that your book would lead you to victory that you denied my assistance."
"What is your point?" Roswaal said in a slightly angered tone.
"The problem is you relying in such a thing too much. One must take action in order to get a result. Which is why I'll offer again, do you want to command the heartless?"
"Not a chance."
"What?"
The mysterious figure was caught off guard by this response, thinking that maybe this time he will get through Roswaal and get him to command the heartless. Roswaal returned to his seat before looking at the mysterious figure, knowing that he needs to answer the question.
"Should I do that? I knooooow I would break the contract, which would only destroy my soul. My trust in Subaru-kuuuun is high up there that he will get me to my goal."
"Hmm. Isn't that lame. I was hoping you would do something fun for me but I guess you are a boring clown. Well, I guess I shall leave you be-"
"Give me the book."
"Huh?"
"That book doesn't belong to you! It belongs to teacher and to Beatrice!"
Roswaal created a fireball in his hand before pointing it directly towards the mysterious figure, showing that he is not messing around. This slightly forced the mysterious figure to drop his usual attitude into a more serious one.
"If I do that, all I know is that you will scheme behind the Keyblade wielder and that boy you put your trust in. As much as I would like to see something like this, I won't allow it. This isn't your book, so I won't be giving it to you."
The mysterious figure moved his free hand towards his back side to create a corridor of darkness with Roswaal looking at the mysterious figure with an annoyed facial expression. He was tempted to attack yet he knew that this won't get him the book, if anything he might end up destroying the last remaining thing link to Echidna. He put away his fireball by having it disappear before turning around, not wanting to look at the mysterious figure anymore. The mysterious figure noticed this and just turned around, preparing to leave but before he left the room, he had one last thing to say to Roswaal.
"That guilt you have in you, get rid of it. It's not doing any good for anybody, especially you. If you wish to get back your teacher, then act. Just like I have set in motion all the events, you can also set all the motion of events but don't rely on some book. Rely on your own intuition."
Roswaal took note of this but before he could make a comment to this, the mysterious figure left the area. Just as he left, Ram opened the door to check on Roswaal, having sensed something was wrong.
"Roswaal-sama, is there something wrong?"
"No, nothing at aaaaaaall, Ram."
"If you say so, Roswaal-sama. I'll be outside if you need anything."
Roswaal nodded at Ram before watching her leaving his room. As she left, Roswaal just looked outside the window in the same manner he was looking in present day. In present day, Roswaal had noticed Subaru and the others returning from their trip. This made him curious on whether Subaru had looped during his time in the watergate city. Without his gospel, he can't tell what the future holds for him but his mindset had been in what the mysterious figure had told him all those months ago.
'Act on my own accord...I suppose I woooooould need to set things into motion that don't go agaaaaaainst the contract.'
Roswaal stood silent for a moment to think before he noticed the door to his office room had opened. He turned to see that it was both Sora and Subaru entering, both looking warn out from the mess that happened in the watergate city.
"Subaru-kuuuun, Sora-kuuuuun, good to see you booooth. How may I be of assistaaaaaance?"
"Master Sora and I are here to talk to you about the sage. What do you know about the sage?"
"Ah, the saaaage who helped take down the Witch of Envy. All I know is thaaaaat his name was Flugel. He had an assistant known as Shaula. They had a similar relatioooooonship to you and Beatrice-sama but Flugel was more diiiistant with Shaula compared to you."
Subaru stood silent about this since this is the first he is hearing about the sage Flugel. He is aware that Flugel was there alongside the dragon Volcanica and the first Sword Saint Reid in stopping the Witch of Envy from consuming the world.
"Do you know where the Pleiades watchtower is located?"
"Yes I do, Sora-Kuuuuun but getting there would be veeeery tough."
"How so?" Subaru asked.
"Weeeell, there are a few sand storms to deeeeeeal with. There is also the large amount of Maaaaaaabeasts to deal with. Then lastly there is Shaula heeeeeeerself, she would defend the toooooower with her power."
"I see, so we have a lot to deal with and yet..."
Subaru turned towards Sora, seeing his master holding the card that Xehanort gave him. Roswaal noticed this and asked if he can see the card to which Sora allowed this, handing him the odd looking card. Roswaal looked at it carefully and could tell that there is some odd element of magic yet one he isn't aware of. He continued to look at it and noticed that the drawing in the center of the card is the drawing of the Pleiades watchtower.
'Now, isn't this quite the draaaaaaawing.'
Roswaal looked at the card with such an interesting gaze, intrigued on how this card could easily lead anybody into the Pleiades watchtower without the need to deal with the sandstorms or the Mabeast yet Shaula would still be a problem.
"Are you all gooooooing to the watchtower?"
"Yes, we need to talk to the Sage."
"Hmmm. Who is goooooing with yooooou?"
"Master Sora and I are the obvious ones. And since I'm going, Beatrice will go with me. Emilia also volunteered with Anastasia and Julius. Elsa is also going yet I have an odd feeling that Meili will be tagging with us."
"Inteeeeresting. Shall Rem be going as well?"
"I think so. Considering how she loves Master Sora, I have a feeling that she would want to go."
"Will the three knights be goooooing as well?"
"Probably, they are losing their minds in just staying here."
"Seems like a loooooot of our defenses are leaving."
"Oh be quiet Ros, you are strong enough to protect this place on your own."
"Hooooow hurtful."
Sora and Subaru both crossed their separate arms with the two seeing that what Roswaal said is true. They are taking a large group of people with them already and are leaving the mansion defenseless similar to how they left Frederica, Petra, and the three knights to protect Rem a year ago. The two stayed thinking for a moment to see who should stay until Roswaal said to the two,
"That's fine. I am bounded by the cooooontract. Soooo I will keep my word and protect everyone who staaaaays here."
"Okay but remember, we still don't trust you."
"Still woooounding me, Subaru-kuuun."
Subaru just gave Roswaal a stare before himself and Sora were about to leave him after Roswaal returned the card to Sora. Before leaving, Sora was curious to know if Roswaal had any knowledge on the petite girl he had met back in the watergate city.
"Subaru, go on ahead and see who wants to join us. I have to speak to Roswaal in private."
"Alright Master Sora, just be careful with him."
"I will, no need to worry."
Subaru and Sora both nodded before Subaru left off to check on Ram, seeing if she wants to join them on the journey to the Pleiades watchtower. As he left off, Sora turned towards Roswaal with the Margrave curious to know what the Keyblade Master wants.
"Hooooow can I be of assistance, Sora-kuuuun?"
"I was hoping you could tell me if you know this person. I wasn't able to get their name but I'm hoping you could recognize the person by their appearance."
"I have met quite a lot of people over the many years but I suppose it wooooouldn't hurt to try."
"Okay...um it is from what I saw was looking like a little girl who has long straight platinum hair, wears a single sheet of white fabric, and has dark blue eyes."
Roswaal took a moment to process the description of what Sora said, trying to think real hard in his many centuries in world to see if there is someone he knows that fits Sora's descriptions. As he thought carefully, he thought of one person that fit that description yet the moment he thought about this person, he had a change in attitude.
"Are you sure this was the description of the person you just met? How did she speak with you? What exactly did she said?"
"Roswaal are you-"
"What did she said?!"
Sora felt threatened by Roswaal's aggressive voice, causing him to pull his keyblade out to remind Roswaal that he needs to calm down. Roswaal noticed this and quickly regained his composure, realizing that he needs to keep his cool. Once he managed to calm down, he asked Sora the same questions in a calmer manner. Sora put away his keyblade and listened to all of Roswaal's questions before answering with,
"The way I described her is the way I met her. Who is she?"
"Theeeeen this is a problem."
"What do you mean?"
"Weeeeell she is a witch known has Pandora, Witch of Vaingloooooooory. She is quite a dangerous individuaaaaaaaal."
Sora crossed his arms has he heard this information, seeing that he just met someone who can pose a threat to them. Roswaal only gave the Keyblade Wielder the basic of information regarding Pandora, not wishing for any of the camp to deal with her, especially Subaru. Should she learn that Subaru can loop can possibly put them all in danger. As Sora was about to leave, Roswaal proceeded to ask one last question, curious to know something.
"Why do you use yoooooour friends as your strength?"
Sora turned around to hear this question, noticing the curiosity in Roswaal's usual gestures. He took a moment to think carefully on this before being able to answer.
"If I'm being honest, I know the keyblade didn't choose me, and I don't care. I'm just proud of being a small part of something much bigger...the people it did chose. My friends. They are my power."
Roswaal was at a lost for words from this, feeling an immense strength behind those words from the Keyblade Master. All the margrave did was nod at Sora to allow the boy to finally leave, knowing that he needs to prepare for the travel to the Pleiades watchtower. Sora noticed this respectful nod from Roswaal and quickly nodded back in respect before leaving Roswaal's office, leaving the margrave thinking to himself.
'The strength from others to power the one...'
As Sora left Roswaal's office, he went to clean himself up before going off to see who is going with him and Subaru to the Pleiades watchtower. As he was heading to his room, he encounters Petra doing her maid duties. She finished cleaning a hallway before turning towards Sora's direction, just realizing that the group has returned from the trip to the watergate city.
"Sora-sama!"
"Petra! It is good to see you again."
Petra ran towards Sora and gave him a hug, happy to see her hero back alive. Sora was happy to see this, always happy to see a happy Petra. She hugged Sora for a moment before saying to the Keyblade Master in a curious tone of voice,
"What are you going to do right now?"
"Looking for Subaru and Ram, unsure where those two are."
"Oh. I just saw Subaru-sama passed by here a moment ago. As for Ram-onesama, she is in the kitchen...I think. Why are you looking for them?"
"I have to see who is going to the new trip."
"New trip? To where?"
"The Pleiades watchtower."
"Oh. Can I go?"
Sora was at a pause for a moment, noticing Petra wanting to go with them. For Petra, she wants to spend time with Sora to eventually confess her love to him yet she was sad when she noticed him hesitating.
"Can't...I go, Sora-sama?"
"I just...don't want to put you in harm's way, Petra. Where we are going is no place for a young girl like you."
"B-But I have my dream eater and it got stronger over the year."
Petra summoned the Meow wow spirit, wanting to prove to Sora that it is strong enough to protect her that way she can go. Sora looked at his very first dream eater and quickly went to pet it before responding to what the little maid said.
"You are right, this little fella has gotten stronger since the mansion incident but Petra, I can't bring you. I..."
Sora paused himself for a moment, noticing how sad Petra is. This forced him to think of something to give Petra so he doesn't feel like he is leaving her behind. He thought and thought until something came to mind.
"I need you to keep an eye on Roswaal."
"Uh?"
"Yeah, since we will be gone again, I need someone to make sure he doesn't do anything suspicious."
Petra stood silent for a moment, thinking on this for a bit. She still hates Roswaal with a passion and doesn't forgive him, making it interesting that Sora would chose her to watch over the clown. She looked at Sora and could see the smile that warms her heart, making her want to make Sora proud.
"Okay Sora-sama, I will keep an eye on him. I won't fail you!"
"Thanks Petra. Oh right, one more thing. How are things with Meili?"
"Meili...oh well um..."
"Petra, what did you do?"
Sora looked at Petra and could tell that she is ashamed of something to which she was. Sora crossed his arms and looked at the little maid, seeing that her face is turning red. There was a silence before she finally said,
"I might have locked her in a room."
"What?!"
"It was just for today! I just wanted her away from me for a bit. She is so bothersome and I just...don't want to talk with her."
"Why?"
"I don't trust her, okay. She tried to kill us, Sora-sama. I don't know how you can forgive that woman and Meili."
"Where is she then?"
Petra looked down and quickly lead Sora to the room where Meili was. As he arrived, Petra grabbed the keys to the room and opened it. As she opened the door, Meili charged towards Petra and gave her a giant hug.
"Petra-san! Are you free now to play? You got to be free since you opened the door!"
"Hello there, Meili."
"Sora! Good to see you again. Those that mean Elsa is here too?"
Sora nodded to which Meili quickly went running down the halls to look for Elsa. As she left Sora and Petra, the Keyblade Master smiled since he knows just how close Meili and Elsa are. The two stayed there for a bit before Petra returned back to her maidly duties while telling her hero to be safe. Sora nodded and allowed the little maid to hug him once more before seeing her off to do some work. Sora smiled at this and quickly went towards the kitchen in hopes of finding Ram or Subaru. During his walk, he bumped into Clind. The two of them have rarely talked, with Clind always busy taking care of things while Sora being busy training Subaru and others who wish to join in on their training sessions. The few times they had interacted, Clind had found an interest in Sora similar to how he finds an interest in Emilia, seeing the two has very pure hearted souls. Sora views Clind with respect yet does find him a bit off at times but trustworthy in the end.
"Sora-sama, what brings you here? Back from the Watergate city?"
"Yes, there was a lot that had happened in Priestella but we have returned. Otto and Garfiel stayed behind to help the people."
"Mind if I ask what had happened?"
"The witch cult."
With that, Clind understood that the Witch Cult had attacked the city and that both Otto and Garfiel stayed to fix the city on behalf of the Emilia camp. As he thought of this, he noticed that Sora was on his way towards somewhere.
"Are you looking for someone?"
"Ah yes, I was looking for either Ram or Subaru."
"The pink haired maid is in the kitchen last I checked. As for Subaru-sama, he should be somewhere in the first floor with those three knights."
"Okay, thank you Clind."
"Don't mention it."
The two nodded at each other before the two split paths, with Clind quickly returning to his work while Sora quickly made his way to the bottom floor to catch up with Subaru. Once he reached the bottom floor, he encountered Annerose Miload. Annerose had noticed Sora, quickly approaching the Keyblade Master to ask him,
"Sora-sama, do you know where Emily is?"
"I think she is getting cleaned up in her room. Have you seen Subaru?"
"Subaru? Oh yes, Emily's knight. He went with those three knights into the spa to clean up. You all really stink."
"Hehe sorry about that. The witch cult had attacked us in Priestella but we managed to beat them."
"Seeing that Emily is alive, you all did a good job. I'll leave you be now, thanks for your help."
Annerose bows to Sora in respect before heading to find Emilia, wanting to check up on her while Sora quickly made his way towards the spa. Seeing that this is his chance to clean up, he joined the four.
After they all cleaned up, Sora and Subaru quickly went to find Ram. As they were looking for her, Rem managed to find her sister first. She was checking up on Roswaal for a bit before heading to do her daily maid duties. As she was leaving Roswaal's room, Rem and Ram crossed paths in that same hallway Roswaal's office was located.
"Ram-sama."
"Rem-san, good to see you again. Mind if I ask why your uniform is quite dirty?"
"We were attacked by the Witch Cult and by the Organization. I confronted the Sin Archbishop of Gluttony...the one who took my memories and my name."
Ram paused for a moment, keeping her composure yet deep down she felt a bit of fear. Over the past year she has gotten closer to her sister, caring for her. Hearing that she encountered the person that caused her to forget her sisterly bond made her worried that something bad might happen should Rem encounter Lye again.
"What else happened?"
"Sora and Subaru were both able to take down The Sin Archbishops of Greed and Wrath. That is about it."
"Hmph. I'm not surprised about Sora-sama pulling it off but hearing Barusu doing something like that is surprising."
Although she says this in her usual cold tone, deep down she does feel some pride in Barusu. Rem continues to explain all the events that had happened and on how they will be heading to the Pleiades watchtower to talk to the sage. Ram took a moment to process everything her sister said. Once she was able to think clearly, she questioned Rem on when the group is leaving for the watchtower.
"Not at this moment from what I'm aware of."
"Good, because I will be going with you all then."
"Are you sure, Ram-sama? Shouldn't you be keeping an eye on Roswaal-sama?"
"Roswaal-sama knows that he can't do anything without the risk of the penalties of his contract with Barusu. So I am not worried, I also believe that he won't do anything that will harm us."
Rem noticed what Ram said, seeing just how much faith her sister has on the man who nearly got everyone killed a little over a year ago. All Rem could do is nod at what Ram said in respect before the two went off to look for either Sora or Subaru to tell them that Ram will be joining the group to the Pleiades watchtower. Ram and Rem both looked around until finally they encountered Sora and Subaru in the same floor Emilia was in.
"Ram, I was looking for you."
"So was I, Sora-sama. I will be joining the group to the Pleiades watchtower."
"Well...that was what Subaru and I were going to ask you. Alright then, we should all probably prepare for the journey ahead then."
"Tell me, who will be going?"
"Aside from the four of us, my three knight friends will be going, Elsa, Emilia-tan, Beako, Anastasia and her knight, Julius."
"Don't forget about us, my son."
"Huh?"
Subaru and Sora turned around to see Kenichi and Naoko in more casual attire rather than in their usual work attire. Subaru was a bit curious on what his father said, hoping that they aren't actually going to go.
"Mother, Father, why are you both in such casual clothing?"
"Well my son, your mother and I talked and we decided to join you on this quest."
"Wait what? Why?"
"Because we should go on adventures together, as a family."
"Yes, exactly what your mom said."
"Wait Wait Wait, you two know it is dangerous, right?"
"We are aware my baby boy but your father and I can handle our own."
"Wait but-"
"We can discuss this in the meeting, Barusu."
"Fair point, Ram."
Subaru nodded and just told his parents to follow him before the six of them went to the meeting room to discuss on who will be going and who will be staying. Julius and Anastasia were already there when Subaru, Sora, Rem, Ram, Kenichi, and Naoko entered. As the six of them entered, Elsa and Meili both arrived later on with Yabuto, Kishida, and Waraki by their side. Beatrice later arrived after having cleaned herself a bit from the mess that happened in the watergate city. Lastly Emilia with Annerose by her side, Emilia having changed to her usual attire since she wished to be in more comfortable clothing than the wedding dress she was in. As everyone started to arrive, Subaru started the conversation by saying,
"So we are all here because everyone has decided to go to the Pleiades watchtower."
"Of course, newbie."
"Okay, what about you Elsa?"
"Yes Subaru, Meili and I will join you."
"Wait, why is she going?" Julius asked, curious to know why Meili is joining them.
"Mother would find her if she stayed her for too long. Also if there are Mabeasts where we are going, she is going to be very useful."
"Yes! I want to be helpful!" Meili spoke with excitement, wanting to do something fun outside the mansion.
"Right but the problem is that there is too many of us going, leaving the mansion alone with Ros to do whatever he wants." Subaru spoke with some concern in his voice which caught Ram's attention, not in a good way.
"Barusu, I suggest that you show more respect to Roswaal-sama if you wish to keep your head intact."
"Don't you dare threaten my contractor, maid. Apologize now, I suppose."
Ram and Beatrice looked at each other with hostile intent, to which both Subaru and Sora quickly knew that they needed to calm the tension.
"Okay, this is getting us nowhere. We need some of you to volunteer to stay and defend the mansion at the very least."
Everyone looked at Sora and knew that he had a point, there needed to be some warriors in the mansion should Roswaal or some other threat attack. Yabuto and his two friends stood silent for a moment to think before they talked among themselves.
"What do you think, Yabuto?"
"I mean, as much as I want to go and do something, I guess I can stay while the two of you go and help out the newbie."
"Wait, that would be unfair. Kishida and I shouldn't just let you be here all by yourself. I should stay and perfect my skills."
"Wait, are you sure Waraki? The group might encounter the Witch Cult?"
"You make a point Kishida but I feel like I should train a bit more before encountering those bastards...especially that bitch, Capella."
Elsa and Meili both froze as they heard Mother's name, having some fear when hearing her action name. Waraki noticed this and could tell that they are slightly afraid of her, causing him to refrain from using the Sin Archbishop of Lust's name.
"Kishida, you should be the one to go out of the three of us."
"Are you sure, Waraki?"
"Yes."
Kishida was hesitant at first yet he respected his friends wishes and just gave a simple nod before watching the two leave the room, both wishing the entire group good luck. As they left, Subaru had asked if anybody else wanted to stay with Sora answering,
"Although it is a big group, I think the amount of people here will be okay. Yabuto and Waraki are skilled enough to face enough enemies that come by here."
"What if it is the Organization, Master?"
"Then Roswaal-sama will handle it, Barusu."
Subaru looked at Ram and could see that she is getting annoyed by his questions, causing him to be in slight fear of his life. This prompted Sora to quickly have everyone be focused on the task at hand, the goal when reaching the Pleiades watchtower.
"The point of heading there is to talk with the Sage. The sage might be able to help us fix what the sin Archbishops of Gluttony had done to two members of this group and to some of the citizens of Priestella."
Everyone in the room nodded at what Sora said, understanding that this is the objective. Kenichi and Naoko both understood that this is a mission, knowing that family time won't always happen where they are off to yet they are excited at the very least in spending some time with Subaru and watching him in action.
"Mother, Father, if you two are really going, just try to be extra careful."
"Don't you worry Subaru, your amazing dad will protect your mom should anything happen."
"Okay, I just want to make sure."
"No need to worry, my baby boy."
Subaru nodded at this, confident that his parents will be able to protect themselves should things go wrong at the Pleiades watchtower. As the group all head outside to enter the large carriage that Frederica, Frufoo, and Patrasche had gotten them, Sora pulled out the card once again, curious on how he should use it.
'I honestly wonder, how do you use this?'
Sora closed his eyes and thought for a moment before his mind quickly decided to throw the card in front of Patrasche. As he does this, the card started the glow before a giant portal appeared in the card's place. Everyone was thrown off by this yet they saw this as a chance to get to the Pleiades watchtower faster than they usually would have.
"Okay, is everyone ready?" Emilia asked, wanting to make sure the group was ready for the journey ahead. All she heard was everyone say yes, giving both her and Subaru a smile before the two told Patrasche and Frufoo to lead them into the portal. As the group was leaving, Roswaal looked from the window of his office.
'Good luck at the Pleiades watchtower, Subaru-kun. I have a feeling that you are going to need it.'
As Roswaal finished his thought, he returned to doing paperwork while a mysterious figure on the top of the mansion also watched from a distance, curious to see how events will play out. He takes a look at the tome of wisdom to see if anything interesting will happen.
"Nothing seems out of the ordinary for now. I guess I just have to wait and see."
The mysterious figure turns and creates a corridor of darkness before leaving the area, interested to see how another boy with silver hair is doing. As the group go through the portal, they all look outside to see that suddenly they are in a desert. Rem and Ram both were glad to have changed into more appropriate outfits prior to having left the mansion. As everyone starts to leave the carriage, they noticed that they were able to bypass the sandstorms, seeing has they are still rampant.
"Seems like that old man was trustworthy on this one case, Master."
"You are right..."
The two were silent by this, seeing that Xehanort was trustworthy for once yet they are unsure if he will be trustworthy the next time. As the two were silent on this, Kishida looked around with awe in his eyes. He wished that his friends were with him, wishing they could see the desert. As they were all looking around, they noticed the large tower off in the distance.
"Is that..."
"...the Pleiades watchtower."
Both Elsa and Meili were fond to see this, not getting a lot of chances to just enjoy the view while Emilia and Beatrice were both stunned at how large the tower looks even from a distance. Kenichi and Naoko both looked amazed at the desert, wishing to have their cameras to take pictures of this moment.
"This is quite the view, isn't it?"
"You are right. This is worth it rather than sitting on a chair, doing nothing for most of the day."
"Dad, remember that we are not on vacation. We have a job to do."
"I know that Subaru but you can enjoy the view while everything is calm."
"That is true."
Subaru listened to what his father said and just enjoyed the view while there wasn't anybody trying to kill them. As everyone looked at the tower for a bit longer, they all started to make their way into the carriage to have Patrasche and Frufoo take them to the tower only for Sora to sense something off.
'Hmm. Why do I feel like...something bad is heading this way?'
Sora looked at the tower for a moment, something in his heart telling them that they are all in danger. He paid close attention until he saw that there was something powerful heading towards them at incredible speed. Sora stood still for a few seconds with Subaru and Emilia both turning towards the Keyblade Master, noticing that something isn't right. Before either of the two could say something, Sora jumped in front of the carriage while yelling at the top of his lungs,
"Reflega!"
Everyone noticed this and quickly left the carriage to see what is going on. As everyone noticed Sora's shield he created around them. Patrasche Frufoo both looked up and were the first to notice the explosions due to how close they were. The rest noticed this and could see that the tower is attacking them, with Sora using everything he had to protect everybody.
"My god! What the hell is attacking us?!" Kenichi spoke with concern in his voice.
"Whatever it is, I will protect you all, I suppose."
"Master Sora, what should we do?"
"I know that staying here will only delay the inevitable. We need to get moving! I can block off the attacks but for now, return back to the carriage everyone!"
Subaru and the others nodded before making their way into the carriage as fast as they can with Subaru offering to help his master out.
"Allow me to help you, Master."
"No, I need you to be with the others, Subaru. I can protect everyone on my own."
"Are you sure?"
Sora turned towards Subaru, seeing how determined his apprentice and friend is in wanting to help him. He smiled before giving Subaru a confident yes, wanting to show that he can handle this on his own. Subaru understands this and gives his master a nod before making his way into the carriage, being the last one to enter. As everyone is inside the carriage, Sora quickly goes and sits down on Patrasche before informing the two ground dragons the plan.
"I will make sure neither of you get hurt by those attacks or let them hit our friends. I just need you two to get us across with everything you got."
Frufoo and Patrasche both nodded at what Sora said before waiting for his signal to start pulling the carriage with great speed. Once the shield broke from the many attacks being thrown towards them from the tower, Sora gave the signal to the two ground dragons, causing the two to quickly give it their all while Sora did his best to block off each and every attack thrown his way.
'Whoever is attacking doesn't want us getting to the tower. Well then, I better give it my all to protect them.'
Sora using everyone's strength allowed him to gain a bit more power, allowing him to block off the attacks with his own keyblade and newly found strength. Patrascha and Frufoo continued on the dangerous journey to get to the Pleiades watchtower with Sora managing to block off any attacks heading directly towards either of them. This gave the ground dragons confidence that their lives will be in good hands as long as Sora keeps up on the defensive side. While Sora was giving it his all on his own to protect the rest, Subaru and the others looked outside to see just how dangerous it is.
"No wonder nobody gets through here."
"What do you mean by that, Julius?"
"People have tried to get through here, wanting to reach the Pleiades watchtower yet they were unsuccessful."
"Well none of them had Master Sora to help."
"That is true, Sora dear is giving it his all but I just wish we could help him."
"Yes, I do agree with you there, I suppose. It isn't right letting him do everything for us, in fact."
Subaru stood silent while he agreed with what Elsa and Beatrice said, causing him to look at his hands. He knows that he has gotten stronger since the events of the Sanctuary and the events in Priestella yet he also is aware that he has a very long way to go before reaching the same level of strength that Sora has. Even so, he still knows that he will eventually reach that point where he can say that he is on the same level as him. He closes his hand before he turns towards Beatrice and Elsa to add in his input in the situation.
"I do wish either one of us can help him yet we need to have faith in Master Sora as well. He is pretty tough so I know he will get us across."
Everyone noticed what Subaru said and simply nodded, seeing that all they can do now is have faith in Sora that he will get them across. As they watched, Sora continued to block off each attack thrown towards them only to eventually see a barrage of attacks heading towards their way. Sora was stunned for a second before he quickly went into his Double Form, knowing that he is going to need both Oathkeeper and Oblivion if he wants to get his friends and himself towards the Pleiades Watchtower.
As he shifted into the Double form, he started to give it his all in blocking every attack thrown towards him with Subaru and the others seeing this. The group struggled to see Sora since he was moving to fast for them to see except for Elsa, she is barely able to see the boy yet she was also struggling. As they were all amazed with how quick Sora was going yet their attention would be shifted when Meili noticed the Mabeast nearby.
"Oh look, my friends are here."
"Friends?...Meili, those are Mabeast."
"Yes, my friends."
Julius was dumbfounded by this but before he could say anything more, the Mabeast started to make their way towards the carriage, ready to attack them. This caused the group to realize that they need to act quickly.
"We need to get Meili outside."
"Why, Bowel Hunter?" Kishida asked in a slightly aggressive tone, still have distrust towards the Elsa.
"She is a Mabeast tamer. She can get them to not attack us or even maybe assist us in getting to the tower faster."
"I don't know...Subaru, Emilia-sama, what do you two think?"
"Well considering Master Sora trusts her, there is not much we can do but trust her. Trying to attack the Mabeast will only leave us in the open to be killed and leaving it all to my master might cause him to get killed as well. He is strong but he can't be everywhere at once."
"Yes, just like Subaru said but we also have to help Sora. We can't let him do this all on his own."
Everyone nodded at what Emilia said and quickly devised a plan to have Meili and someone else be with her. Emilia, Elsa, Subaru, and Ram all four volunteered to help which caused the four of them to look at one another. It is understandable that Elsa wants to help her sister in spirit, Emilia wanting to help because she is a pure hearted girl, and Subaru wanting to help because he is strong enough to cast magic that can help yet they were all thrown off by why Ram wanted to help. Seeing that it is best to have two people, Elsa and Ram both were nominated to help since Subaru needed to keep Emilia safe and Emilia being in harm's way wouldn't help anybody. As they opened the door of the carriage, Elsa carried Meili outside and with the help of Ram, the three of them managed to get to the top of the carriage, feeling a massively strong wind hitting them.
As the three were struggling to get up, Ram took out her wand and quickly used her own wind magic to push back some of the wind pushing them. As she was doing this, Elsa set Meili down in order to allow her to control the Mabeast. Meili looks at all the Mabeasts heading their way and starts to communicate with them, trying to make them not attack the carriage or the ground dragons pulling the carriage. As she was doing this, Ram looked up and noticed that they are almost close to the tower yet the attacks are starting to increase. She looked and can tell that Sora is starting to struggle in pushing the attacks back due to how overwhelming the barrage of attacks are.
"Sora-sama, do you require some assistance?"
"Ram? What are you...? Nevermind that, get to safety. I can handle this."
"You are pushing yourself too far. Allow me to help."
Ram got another ether to restore her mana before using her most powerful wind magic in hopes of helping Sora push back some of the barrage of attacks thrown towards them. The Keyblade Master notices this and quickly moves out of the way to allow Ram's attack to push back the large amounts of powerful needles away from their location. As this happens, Sora takes the opportunity to charge himself for a bit before firing a powerful light beam towards the one firing at them. As Sora does this, he ends up using too much energy which causes him to revert back to his original form while also falling to the ground. Elsa notices this and quickly with her immense speed despite the wind pushing her back, was able to get Sora mid air and return to the top of the carriage. As she was holding a very weak Sora, she hadn't realized that her face was red all of a sudden until Meili pointed it out.
"Elsa, why is your face red?"
"Huh?"
"Are you okay?"
"Y-Yes, I'm okay."
Elsa set Sora down to allow the boy to rest while Meili returned focus on the Mabeasts, asking them if they can help the carriage and the ground dragons get to the tower fast. The mabeast quickly went behind the carriage and started to push it with some on the side, helping Frufoo and Patrasche get to the tower with haste. As the group was closing in, Sora and his group managed to return back inside the carriage once they were sure that they would be safe. Once inside, the group checked on the Keyblade Master, seeing that he used up all of his energy to get them across.
"Do you think you'll be okay?"
"Don't worry about me you guys...I'll be okay. I just need to rest up for a little bit."
"Go ahead, you earned it."
"Thank you, Rem."
Sora fell asleep as his energy was all used up though what he did not know was that he ended up falling asleep on Rem's lap with Rem messing with his hair. Everyone found this scene quite adorable, even Elsa yet she did felt a hint of jealousy deep down even if she won't acknowledge it. Subaru looks outside of the carriage to see that they had finally arrived with Meili quickly telling the Mabeast to leave them be, to which they listen and leave the group. As they all start to leave the carriage, Julius and Kishida both inspect the area first before allowing the others to enter the large building, having found an entrance nearby. As the group makes their way inside with Rem carrying Sora to allow him to rest, they all look around and are impressed by the structure of the tower.
As they were walking deeper and deeper into the tower with Patrasche and Frufoo with them, the two ground dragons detected danger to which the group responding with Subaru using Reflera, having a shield to cover them from the deadly attack that Sora was dealing with earlier. As Subaru's shield was barely able to push back the attack, shattering the instant it made contact, Emilia quickly fired a barrage of icicles at the direction the needle came from. Ram also joined in and used her El Fula attack, both attempting to push back the attacker. Julius took Anastasia away from the area to keep her safe along with Rem wanting to keep Sora safe while both Elsa and Kishida looked at the area to find some way up to the attacker's location.
Subaru and Beatrice both combined their strength and both summon their most strongest Minya attack, wanting to give everything they can to push back the attacker. As they were all sending a barrage of combined attacks, Kishida and Elsa both managed to find a way up, prompting the two to head up there with Elsa quickly instructing her sister to stay with Sora and Rem. Meili understood and quickly went to go protect the boy with the key. Naoko was also in the side lines, being protected by Kenichi yet the father of Subaru noticed both Elsa and Kishida making their way up.
"Stay here with Subaru's master and girlfriend, my beautiful wife."
"Okay, just don't get yourself killed."
"Don't worry, I'm pretty hard to get rid of."
Kenichi's comment made Naoko a bit annoyed yet she still smiled, always loving how overconfident her husband can be. She gives him a good luck kiss before he goes off to follow Elsa and Kishida. As this happens, Subaru had noticed his father heading somewhere to which made him think that he must have found something.
"Beako, think you can hold back this threat without me?"
"Where are you going, I suppose?"
"I think my dad found something out."
"...okay but don't you dare die."
"Don't you worry Beako, I will be okay."
"You better!"
Subaru nodded at Beatrice before quickly running towards his father, having remembered where he went. As he made a turn, he noticed a long hallway leading up, making him understand that they are going to need to be quick if they want to catch this attacker off guard. Subaru managed to catch up to his father, the two managing to quick run all the way towards the third level. As they make it to the third level, they noticed Elsa and Kishida both waiting in the corner. Kenichi and Subaru catch up to them and look at what they are looking, seeing all of the attacks being sent all around the place yet there was someone in a coat, standing still and watching all of the random attacks from Emilia, Beatrice, and Ram.
"Do you think that is the sage or some guard?"
"I do not know Kishida but we have to do something either way."
"Right. What do you want to do?"
"Hm. Elsa, you are probably the fastest of us. Go and distract whoever that is, leave the rest to us."
Elsa nodded at this and quickly got her two knives out, ready to deflect any attack thrown her way. She waited for the right moment before charging directly at the attacker, wanting to time this right so she doesn't end up getting killed. She waited and waited until finally there was an opening, allowing her to charge directly at the attacker the moment it was about to attack the group. Elsa closed in and was about to go on the offensive until the attacker turned its attention towards her, shooting a powerful and quick needle. Elsa was able to notice this and quickly dodged the attack, feeling grateful that Sora's training helped increase her speed. Had her skillset been during the attack on the mansion, she would've lost for sure. As she began dodging a barrage of needle attacks, Subaru and his group waited for the right moment before charging in. Seeing how fast they were going, Subaru knew that he needed to time this right if he wanted them to survive.
'I'm extremely lucky that I didn't die at Priestella...hopefully I can keep this up.'
Subaru, Kenichi, and Kishida all three waited until finally Subaru gave the signal to attack, having the three of them charge at the attacker. Elsa noticed this and quickly waited until she can go on the offensive, wanting to keep the attacker distracted long enough for the three knights to do some damage. She charged at the attacker the second she had the chance and quickly tried to slice it's stomach area only for the attacker to all of a sudden have it's right arm turn into a claw. This claw was able to not only deflect off Elsa's attack but break the knife itself in just one swift deflect.
Elsa was caught off guard by this and would've been killed had Subaru not used Fira on the attacker. The attacker noticed this and quickly turned around to deflect off the attack. Just as it does this, Kenichi and Kishida with their swords attempt to stab the attacker only for the attacks to miss. The attacker had dodge the attacks and was about to kill the two only for Subaru to get a chance to tackle it. Subaru's tackle was strong enough to cause both the attacker and himself to fall down from the third floor. Emilia and the others were ready to attack until they noticed that Subaru was falling with the attacker.
"Subaru!"
Emilia without a second prepared to catch her boyfriend only to notice the attacker suddenly grab Subaru. The boy was confused by this, causing him to question whether or not his choice lead him to his own death. Before believing that he is going to die, he heard the attack speak in a very calm and happy female voice,
"I have found you!"
Subaru was surprised that the attacker was a female yet more surprised when she was able to land on her feet after they ended up falling from the third floor. Everyone looked with hostility until they noticed that it was a girl, one that was too fond of Subaru since she was hugging him very tightly.
"Wh-Who are you?" Subaru asked, wishing to get off of the woman's grasp yet she was abnormally strong.
"Four."
"Uhhh...eh?"
"-Master."
"Wait what?"
As Subaru heard this, everyone was caught off guard by this as well with the woman hugging Subaru even tighter than before. This was annoying Subaru, knowing that he isn't this person's master at all.
"You are...perhaps mistaking me for someone else or something like that...mmmmmph!"
"Master! Jeeeeez! I have beeeeeen waiting~!"
"What?!"
"Master! Master! It has been so long! I missed you so much! I thought that life was just meee shooting those approaching here!"
"Barusu, what is she talking about?"
"I have no clue! She's crazy!"
"It was crueeel! Master ordered me, no? You said to stop anyone from getting near to the shrine...well, as for how I handled it, that's a different matter, buuuut-"
"No...I'm your master? What are you insinuating?! Anyway, let go of me, you...this is ridiculous...!"
"No way! There's absolutely no waaaaaay! As soon as you say that, you'll disappear again as soon as I lose sight of you! Master hasn't chaaanged at all!"
"Who are you?" Julius spoke yet he was being ignored by the woman.
"I don't know what you're on about! Who even are you?!" Subaru shouted while trying to escape the woman.
"What are you even saying?! I'm Shaulaaa! The Star-Keeper of the Pleiades Watchtower! I am Master's cute apprentice, Shaulaaa!"
"I don't remember you what so ever!"
Subaru using his second form transformation managed to escape Shaula yet as he does, he was all of a sudden kicked by Emilia.
"Ow! Emilia-tan, what was that kick for?!"
"I really am not sure, but I was reaaaaaaally upset there!"
Everyone looked at Emilia with Naoko have a bit of a smile on her face, seeing that Emilia is jealous yet the half-elf has not realized this. As Emilia goes to help Subaru get up, Kenichi and his group arrive to notice that the attacker is a girl. Elsa, Kenichi, and Kishida were all three ready to fight with Shaula looking at them in a threatening manner until Subaru got in between the two sides.
"Hold on, we are all on the same side. No need to start fighting!"
"If master says sooooo."
"Are you sure about this, son?"
"Don't worry dad, she is Shaula."
"Wait Shaula, the sage?" Julius and Kishida both spoke in unison, both curious that if this woman indeed is the sage that helped defeat the Witch of Envy 400 years ago. Shaula looked at the two knights yet ignored their shared question, being more interested that she is meeting her master's father. This is something she had not expected to happen.
"You are Master's father?! This. Is. Amaaaazing! I can't believe I'm actually meeting Master's father!"
Shaula inspected both Kenichi and Subaru, noticing that Kenichi did not have the same smell as Subaru yet they did resemble a lot. She was just amazed by this with Kenichi a bit unsure on what to take of this while Subaru was annoyed.
"Hey Shaula, you shouldn't ignore people when they ask you a question."
"They aren't master, so I don't care about them...maybe for Master's parents I will listen as well."
"Um...who are you?" Kenichi asked with a confused facial expression.
"Whaaaaat?! Master! You didn't tell him about me?! How crueeeeeel!"
Shaula begins to whine about this to which Subaru has no idea on how to handle this situation and quickly turns towards his mom, signaling that he needs help. Naoko noticed this and quickly approached Shaula in a calm manner. At first Shaula didn't pay much attention to Naoko until she noticed how similar the eyes of the woman approaching her looked similar to Subaru's eyes. She sniffed her and could tell that she also didn't share the same scent as her master yet she could tell that there is a connection.
"Who is this?"
"My name is Natsuki Naoko, I'm the mother of Natsuki Subaru."
Shaula was at a pause for a moment, the only word that really caught her attention was the word "mother". The only association she could come up with is that this could be her master's own mother, causing her to look at Subaru for confirmation. Subaru noticed this and just gave a nod, to which made Shaula crazy happy.
"Yaaaay! I get to meet master's parents! I'm Shaula, I'm the apprentice of Master!"
She starts to talk with Kenichi and Naoko, wanting to know more of her master which did annoyed Emilia, making her jealous without her knowing that she is. While this is going on, everyone was informed by Subaru that Roswaal had told them about Flugel, the true sage. This caused Kishida and Julius to be a bit hesitant in learning this, seeing that they will need to go to the capital to correct this mistake.
"Do you think she is trustworthy?"
"I believe so, Anastasia. We can keep an eye on her for the meantime."
"Yes, but what about Sora?"
Subaru and the others noticed on what Kishida said, seeing that Sora is still sound asleep in Rem's arms. This is something they realize would be a problem since they can't have Rem carry Sora since that would leave her at a disadvantage and put Sora in danger should they encounter any threat.
"We should rest."
Ram suggested this, seeing that they haven't had a chance to relax and process everything that has happened. The group agreed to allow Sora to properly sleep in an actually bed rather than being held by Rem. As they all turn towards the large carriage, Elsa goes to alert Kenichi and Naoko of the plan before rejoining the group.
Author's note:
Sorry for the long break, I was dealing with finals and have been working on my youtube channel but now that school isn't a part of my daily routine for now, I can finally work on this story.
1. I'll still upload once a week.
2. Regarding the story itself, I really have grown fond of it and I will make sure to finish this.
I hope you all enjoy this story, continue on your reviews and criticisms since I want to improve in my story telling.