Tales of Berseria: A Second Chance
Prologue Part 2:
No more Sacrifices
"You both really took your time"
As Laphicet and I leave the hot springs waiting room, dressed in our usual clothes; Eleanor received us, she was in a really good mood with a slight worry for some reason. Behind her, were the rest of our party as well.
"Yes, sorry about that..." Laphicet answered, a slight blush in his cheeks as he looked to his side. I could feel his shyness.
I released a satisfying sigh, smiling at him before direct my words to Eleanor, "Don't worry I just needed to wash my face again, we are ready to go." I looked at my comb one last time before put it away on my pocket, then I turned my gaze to the door behind me, "It was a good bath, I didn't felt this relaxed in a while"
Eleanor raised an eyebrow, with a finger on her chin, "You're weirdly in a good mood Velvet" she approached me, "something happened?"
"No, nothing!" Phi said before I could talk, facing the wall, with both hands on his waist.
"Laphicet?" She inclined her head a bit, confused in his intervention .
"Don't mind him, he just feels a bit flattered for bruising my hair" I caressed the long trait over my shoulder, the one with a bandage.
"Ye..yes, that..."
Rokurou and Eizen smiled with satisfaction, slowly nodding at Phi. This guys... A sudden gaze from me stopped their little exchange.
"Huh? That's sweet, but why was embarrassing for you?" Eleanor asked, scratching her cheek with her index.
"No, it was incredi--" he covered his mouth for a few seconds, swallowing saliva, "Ah, don't mind us Eleanor..." he avoided the question lowering his gaze, crossing his arms.
I rolled my eyes with his failure of excuse, aware that he just wanted to keep our talk as a secret. But soon or later she will find out if he keeps acting like this.
"Eizen, is him in the rebellious phaze?" I heard Rokurou murmuring.
"Give him a least twenty years, he will recover" Eizen muttered back.
I narrowed my eyes looking at them, "You both just don't gave him stupid ideas..." they smiled like nothing had happened, avoiding any conflict with this themes as ever.
"Well mistress, good you had your rest. Dry up, break times it's over!" Magilou said raising her hand, pointing the exit with her thumb, "the legates are here".
Laphicet and I looked at each other by reflex, he was probably making sure I would keep in mind everything he just told me, so I nodded to reassure his worries, as he proceeded to leave the Inn first, followed by the guys, and Magilou.
He used to be the one following us, I smiled at the thought, Malaks really growth more faster.
Before I could take a step to follow them, I noticed Eleanor looking at the window, sadness marking her usually determined face, I did the same, grabbing my untransformed therion arm, taking a first glance at today Scarlet night.
"So it's time..." She said pressing one of her fists. I can't blame that reaction, after all we were going not just to defeat her old teammates, I was going to consume them to offer they're souls.
"Yes, it's our only chance..." My voice lowered finishing the sentence, watching the red moon with too many emotions in my chest.
The same sky from three years ago, when everything started, the night when Laphi was murdered, and I killed my entire village after becoming a Therion. The burn inside my heart was thirsty for vengeance, not caring of anyone who tried to stop me.
Feeling my arm for the first time felt strangely natural, like something that was always part of me, and consuming blood, and flesh was so addictive, delicious, it was making me lost my senses at the moment wanting nothing else, but kept killing. I got my senses back when I noticed the corpses I took away their life... every person I became so familiar, friendly, and shared my daily life in Aball...
I stole their future...
Every day after when I was trapped in Titania I was tormented by the memory, hitting my head against the wall, tearing my own clothes, punching the ground, or even harming myself to wake up of that nightmare, one that was never going to end. Starving for more blood and flesh, as I was trying everything possible to silent the voices that were following me each day on my head.
"It was you're fault."
"Why you killed us?"
"What we did to you Velvet?"
"I can't believe... I was friend with a monster..."
I tried everything to stop that agony, crying without stop yelling with all my strength, biting my own body to feel more pain, not even calling for help, because who would going to save a murderer like me?
It was just me in that cell, if it wasn't for my desire of vengeance, I would probably lost my entire being, succumbed to my primal instinct, wanting to just destroy everything, devour anything or anyone in this painful world.
The only time I received company was when they throwed Daemons, or prisoners for me to consume. Losing my entire headsitation as soon my hunger got the better of me, to the point of just wanting more, not matter if it was a criminal, or a Innocent child.
I remembered very well their eyes full of fears, hopeless as I just jumped to them to devour them whole, becoming the only taste I would ever get the flavor to this day.
I already lost my humanity, so I put barriers in my heart and soul, being my revenge my remaining motivation to keep living at the moment...
What more would be left for me after?
"Velvet, are you alright?"
Eleanor brought me back to reality, looking at her, she was a bit closer than before, confused of my state of mind. I got lost in thoughts without noticing... how careless. With a simple nod, I walked toward the door keeping my distance from her as she followed me, feeling her worried gaze on my back.
I know she just wanted to help, but this part of me was something no one would like to learn about myself, my imprisonment in Titania still followed me to this day, alongside the voices, who were impossible to leave behind...
"It's my punishment, after all..." I muttered when I was outside, taking a glance to the red sky before approach the others, who were waiting for us. The entire crew, including the pirates and therions were there.
Laphicet waved his hand, looking at me excited. I smiled in return, walking a bit faster, somehow feeling more positive by his little action.
"You deserve to live..."
I remembered those words, encrusted on my mind, as I lowered my eyes keeping a sad smile. If only I was that positive, I just brought misfortune to everyone, even now... but he still, stayed at my side, supporting me by his own choice, willing to save me of anything that fate could brought me.
Suddenly I felt a chill on my spine, and instead of being nervous, I was calm, with a bit of peace in my mind.
I can do this... he will always be there, for me.
"It's me, or the entire mountain become colder?" Eleanor was hugging herself, trembling as she talked with her teeth shaking.
"It is? I feel nothing different" Rokurou tried to feel a difference in the air, just annoying Eleanor in the process.
"Yes... Is! More than I can take!" Magilou said as she was searching something in her book, a spell against the cold I assume.
"This weather is nothing compared to the open sea, come on. You traveled in the Van eltia for months already"
"Easy for you to said it!!" Both Eleanor and Magilou replied with anger, tired of his laid back responses.
We were leaving the sleeping volcano behind, with all the empyreans awake, and both Shigure and Melchior souls used as sacrifices, alongside Oscar and Teresa. They can finally rest, instead of disappear inside me.
"I feel a huge change in the earthpulse, all the empyreans are adapting their domains" Eizen explained, "All the energy surrounded the volcano grew stronger, but don't worry, it's not going to erupt, a least no until a few millenniums."
"Innominat domain finally disappeared, I hope everyone retain their will soon" Laphicet said looking at the blue sky, it seems like we expended the entire Scarlet Night awake.
"They should, and we stripped away any possible way for him to get more stronger." I added crossing my arms, with hopes of this being our last requirement to have a chance against him, I really didn't wanted to cause another chaos after today, "It's almost over..."
"Velvet..." Phi turns his eyes to me, with worry on his faces. Our only objective left was somehow get rid of Imnominat, knowing well what will be the outcome of killing him.
We were not even sure how his defeat would affect the world as we know it, it's a unknown risk impossible to ignore. And despite that, we were willing to take it, any alternative was better than lost you're entire control over yourself.
"About Innominat Phi, you're connected to him. What's he doing right now?"
Phi closed his eyes for a bit, "He fled to the top of the empyrean throne, Artorius is with him. Seems like the empyreans successfully drove him away," he explained with a smile on his face, "you did it Velvet!"
"Seems like it..." I nodded with a little smile.
"If what you said is true, that means humanity will lost their amplified resonance over malakins, a lot of them will regain their free will," Magilou explained, "That will mean the abby will lost a great number of their forces"
"What about you Eleanor, did you lost your resonance?" Rokurou asked, curious.
"Sorry to disappoint, I can still see all of you, Daemons, Malakins, and witches alike...
"Great! I knew you were stronger enough to maintain it!" Laphicet congratulates her, with a proud smile on his face.
Eleanor giggled at the compliment, "Your so kind Laphicet, thank you"
"I learned from the best!"
A bit surprised, I looked at him with a weak smile, Not just me... Noticing this, he met my amber eyes with worry, so i shook my head instinctively.
"Don't worry Phi, for now, let's just get back to Meirchio" I continue walking forward, with him following behind. I know I was just avoiding the question on his mind. Just now wasn't really a good moment for it, wondering what would be the most effective way to defeat Innominat without losing our lives.
I didn't wanted Phi to die, so for now I just wanted to think the ideal solution.
"By the way Laphicet, do you feel the empyreans?" Rokurou approaches him, with a curious tone.
"Yes, they're angry at us for suddenly awakening them. It's kind of hard to distinguish each one with those familiar voices. I can handle it, though."
"Good to know they don't see us as enemies, they can erase us from existence if they really wanted" Eizen said relieved, warning us of their power.
"For now" Magilou added.
"No, no, they will not. They already have their hands busy with their domains," Phi clarified, then proceed to talk in a serious tone. "Eizen, Rokurou, there's something I need to talk with you both," I heard him from behind, as he slowed the pace along with them to avoid us of listening.
Looking above my shoulder, I raised an eyebrow, Now of all times? I wonder what he wants... But before I could try to slow my pace to hear their conversation, two different pair of arms grabbed mine, making me gasp at the sudden surprise.
"It's so cold Velvet, how are you holding up with those ripped clothes!" Eleanor cried, her body was constantly shaking, with her arms around my waist, and her head on my left shoulder.
Magilou has a slight blue on her face, "I feel I will become a witch flavored ice cream any second, help us, Mistress of Calamity!!!" She endured her grab around my chest, under my right arm, pressing her cheek against my shoulder.
I put my gaze on the both of them before releasing a huge sigh, embarrassed "You both should had dressed for the occasion, normal humans would never survive at this temperature, remember to wear the proper clothes next time to avoid freezing your skin," I advised in a scowled tone, "And get off me, what does the two of you expect to get with a hug..."
"Body heat!," The two of them said in a calmer expression, their idea seem to work for some reason, "And your coat!"" They covered themselves with a part of it, "We can keep you warm as well."
"I don't need it... I am a daemon, how even is possible for my body be warm at this temperature?"
"But Laphicet was right! You're full of life, this heat your body gave us is comforting! A perfect warmer" Magilou replied back, letting a slight sound of excitement escape her lips.
"Yeah! You're difficult, scary, and sometimes just angry for not reason. Even so, you really take care of us, and also an admirable leader!" Eleanor was concentrate on her actions, speaking from the truth, with a bit of nervous on her voice.
Opening my eyes wide, I lowered my amber gaze a bit, "I'm... I'm nothing like that" I shut my mouth before continuing the sentence, expecting to avoid another argument with them, usually strong to keep their opinions, "Whatever, just don't get on my way or I scold the both of you once we reach the Inn."'
I gently tried to push them away, but they hug me back again in an instant, so I clicked my tongue in resignation. I used to hate the cold so much, always making Laphi or sometimes Arthur and Celica sick, even I couldn't survive of it often. So a least I'm relieved my Therion body can handle any temperature.
As well thankful for Phi being a Malak, he practically doesn't feel it as well. I made a proud smile at the thought, I win this time Winter.
"Can you give me gloves Magilou?" I noticed Eleanor extending a hand toward her, who was just putting on a pair in her hands.
"Sure! I have to spare!" She slide her hand on one of her boots and took off another pair of winter gloves, "here!"
"Thank you, thank you!" Eleanor's eyes were watering while thanking, I guessed she just ignored were Magilou took then.
"Just how many you have there?" I asked.
"As I said, it's my last measure to maintain my body warm with a bunch of gloves under my clothes, a least on my feet and torso. A witch needs to be prepared for anything!" She extended one arm toward the horizon, still grabbing me with the other.
I raised an eyebrow, "It should be less expensive just buy Winter clothes..." maybe that's why she's constantly making bets. Anyway, she's a free spirit, not like I should care of her Gald amount.
Eleanor in other hand was keeping herself silent, already satisfied with her warm, without meddling too much with my space.
Once again I took a look over my shoulder, Phi was still talking with those two. I could sense Eizen being thoughtful, and Rokurou with arms crossed, nodding at him with a serious expression. Laphicet was explaining something to them with a stoic face, I felt the determination in his eyes even from here.
I couldn't help but felt a little press on my chest. Narrowing my eyes, worried of whatever stupidity was crossing his mind. "What are you planning, Phi?"
A bit later, in one of the Meirchio Inns. I was changing the blade of my wrist alone in my room. Needed to be prepared for the last few battles. Of all types of weapons this one ended being the more comfortable for my combat style, Arthur was who decided it for myself, though I self taught my own combat style, as I did three years ago with my Therion Arm as well.
How I can deal with Innominat...
My mind was apart of my actions, being my brother's seraphim reincarnation the major of my concern. All my journey for revenge started with his death, it was difficult to grasp now that I was the one who will kill him to end everything once for all.
...
"Laphi..."
"That's right. I am Laphicet Crowe, and also, I am the Empyrean Innominat, the suppressor" He said with a grin in his face, as all my muscles tensed the moment he appeared. No, no! It can't be!!
"That's... Innominat?!" In total disbelief, and anger I looked back at Artorius, who kept himself silent, without changing his cold expression.
Eizen shot an Arte to Innominat, who easily blocked it with a shield, "If you're gonna do this, you got tocommit! He is our enemy!"
I lowered my eyebrows, of course... they already tried to fool me in Aball. I will not let them make me fall for their tricks again, "It's just... another illusion!" I transformed my arm, I felt my blood rushing with rage, as I pierced the god with my eyes, "I will devour all of you!"
"So that's what you've been doing all this time, struggling against all reason"
"Shut up! Shut up!"
All of us charged against him, trying everything possible with all our strength to stop him. But it wasn't enough, his Strength was far beyond our abilities, my blade didn't even make a single dent on him.
"You're struggles are over. All your pain, and suffering, I'll end all of it for you," He pushed all of us back with a shock wave, impending us to get back up.
I was feeling my Strength losing on the pressure, trying everything to keep fighting. I can't lose, I can't... I can't stop until they're dead!
Then we finally learned that our entire quest was for nothing, even taking away the Therions from them resolved nothing, Innominat already took the type of malevolence needed from them, being Hatred and Despair the one left on his menu.
The ones inside me, the feelings that were building up on my entire being during this useless journey.
"I don't even need an earthpulse to get them, I just need to eat you, right now," He proceeded to approachme, pointing his hand toward me, as I was looking at his face, 'Laphi's face' In anger and disbelief. Feeling a burn on my chest and head in the process.
Rokurou tried to stop him, jumping between him and me, but Innominat strength was even beyond the strongest material in the entire world, cutting his sword in half and pushing him away.
In a final push of strength, just desiring to escape this nightmare, I threw myself at him, stabbing my wrist blade on his chest. Laphi didn't even faze, just looking at me with a stoic expression, "Ow..."
Feeling a weight behind my eyes, my lips trembling in disbelief, as my chest was being pierced at his mere image, "It's just... an illusion..."
"That hurts... Velvet."
"SHUT UP, SHUT UP!"
"Are you going to kill me, sister?"
I stopped breathing for a second realizing my actions, feeling a pressure on my head. Losing my temper, shouting with agony I proceeded to slash him with my blade, without control, or care of how much pain I was causing to myself, "Go away, go away! GO AWAY!!!"
"It was so hard..." He was still unfazed at the damage, "I was so frail... all I did was cause trouble to you, that's why you wanted me to go away?"
I looked at his blood on my trembling hand. It was too much... memories of my time with him flooded my mind, the happiest, the sad ones, all the ones I treasured in my heart.
"Ah... Ahg..." His voice, his insecurities, it was all from him, "Aaaaghhhh..." my voice kept whining as I slowly approached him, without looking at his eyes. What Iam doing? He was Laphi..! Trying so hard to contain my tears, failing in the process; I embraced him in my arms, as my hatred changed into despair, "I never wanted you to go... I wanted you to live your life... I wanted you to be by my side...
I could feel his eyes filled in sadness, disappointed, staying silent.
"But in the end I couldn't protect you... All I could do was avenge you..." I lifted my gaze, feeling my tears, I couldn't take it anymore, "to get my revenge... I... I devoured, I killed..."
"Of course you did" a slight smile was on his face.
"I'm sorry... I'm sorry Laphi! It hurts... didn't it..." looking at the wound I caused, I push aside any doubts in my mind, "Phi, please heal him!"
"But-- he is..."
"He is Laphicet! He... he is my brother..."
Looking at his eyes again, I noticed his grin. I was still crying, unwilling to keep hurting him, I just wanted him to be safe.
"But Velvet, I didn't wanted you to avenge me" his voice returned to a stoic one, "I mean, that's the sort of emotions that creates malevolence, that creates daemons"
"A..agh?" I took a step back.
"That's why, I decided to help Arthur. We're going to make all the pain going away from this world."
My hands kept trembling, realizing his intentions even before he said them.
"Including that Hate, the ugly malevolence in you"
"Ugly... Malevolence..?
Artorius wanted to create a world free from pain, from sin. And Laphi wanted to help him, knowing well everything he felt when I was taking care of him. A world where people couldn't be themselves anymore, if that meant save everyone from their darkest feelings.
"I will make a world free of malevolence, a safe place free of daemons. That was always my dream" he explained smiling, the way he always did when he was decided, "don't worry, all my wounds will heal once I eat you sister"
Extending his arms he made circle around us, slowly pulling us in by forces, sucking our strength. He was eating us alive.
Losing my balance, with a fading voice. I extended my hand at him "Wait... I always... everything I did, was for you..." my tears keep flooding, my heart was hurted by his previous world. All, everything I did, were meaningless for him. I kept talking, trying to approach him as I was sucked back, "How could you... do this to...
"Thank you" My eyes widened at him, "It's because of what you're done, that I needed to make amends. You've hurt so many people, and all for nothing."
"Ah..." I stopped trying, my entire will shattered, "You can't... Laphi!!" I extended my arm one last time, hopeless of everything.
"Velvet!" I heard Phi's voice, as I was surrounded in a blue light that took us away from Innominat.
Laphi was my reason to keep fighting, his murder the reason I wanted to kill Artorius, and stop Innominat as well.
His dead destroyed my soul, and now his betrayal consumed what was left of my Will... I had nothing. What did I fought for? Why did I killed so much? I did it for him! Then Why? Why?!
Why my family left me behind? Why they broke my heart? Why they throwed me away of their life?
At that point, I just wanted to devour this horrible world...
...
I gasped at the sound of the old blade as it fell on the floor, taking me back to reality once again, "Laphi..." I muttered taking the blade, putting it back on the table. I sighed, wiping the tears I almost let out. That memory was not very recent, and was still hurting me, "I will not let you... not the both of you succeed..." I pressed my left hand containing my rage, as my blood covered the bandage once again.
This time, I decided to fight for myself, for the life that was taken from me, and the humanity I had lost forever. Even so, it still hurt, I couldn't do anything about it, remembering just how much pain they both suffered to end in this destructive path that will soon or later doom my entire family, if they aren't already.
I was weak, I could not let my past go. Phi wanted me to live, to keep going forward, search a new reason to live, recover the normal life I once had, and I was happy to keep being part of. But I can't... my heart lost all hope since three years ago.
What could a monster like me, who eat humans, malaks, and daemons alike, do to get a normal life again?
It's beyond me...
"Hey, Velvet. There's something I want to ask!"
I shook my head, decided to keep thinking all of this later, meeting Magilou's eyes, who was standing under the doorframe, "Huh? What do you need?"
Making a thoughtful face after enter the room, she put one hand on her chin, "After you released those four souls from you belly, didn't you started to feel something?"
I raised an eyebrow, "Something like, what?"
"You know what I mean, you practically emptied your stomach, are you not hungry?"
"Well, yes a bit. But I doubt it has something to do with that, I already ate daemons on the way. I highly doubt it would affect me like that," I shrugged at her question, a bit indifferent.
Magilou put both hands on her waist, "Then why you don't cook and eat something?"
"Well--" before I could finish, her stomach released a growl. I narrowed my eyes at her, who looked aside whizzing, "You should just said your hungry..."
"I was curious as well! I couldn't let slide the opportunity! My curiosity is beyond your limited boundaries!" She excused herself, with a sweat on her forehead.
Releasing a sigh, I shook my head forming a little smile as I stood on my feet, "Alright, alright. I was planning to cook dinner today, anything you would like?"
"You're special quiche, Laphicet wants as well. Oh, and Kamoana wants to taste it, or so I heard."
"That's new to me, very well. It should take me around ten minutes. I will go in a bit"
She nodded at me before leaving the room, now it was just me again, "Never change Magilou..." I put the new forged blade on the wrist guard, I was finally ready for my next few battles.
With the final one just behind the corner, I just hoped for the best coming from everyone who accompanied me on this journey, and of course, the best way to show this appreciation was cooking for them a few more times.
"I think I finally mastered my Quiche!"
"You really did! I love the taste, I can't wait for next time!"
Phi's smile from that day make my heart beat with joy once again, I was determined to match that flavor this time. So I finally went to the kitchen, with everyone who helped me, and was with all of us today smiles on my head.
I was excited to make this image happen, tonight!
Exactly ten minutes later like I said, I released a huge relieved sigh, "That should be enough." Smiling, I took a look to the finished special Quiche, or to be exactly, the tons of them I specially prepared for tonight, "I never thought I would make this much of this back then..." Lowering my gaze, a long gone memory whispered to me.
"I can't wait to taste your quiche Velvet, I'm sure it will had a heavenly taste!"
"It's finally done, Niko..." I muttered to myself, even aware of Niko don't wanting to see me again, after what I done...
"Oh! That smells great!" Eleanor entered the kitchen, "God this is a lot!" Her surprised face was delightful, making me feel proud of myself.
"I wanted to make enough for the entire crew, and the Therions, as long not everyone wants second slides it should be a decent amount" I took off the apron I was using over my regular clothes, putting it aside.
Instead of continue talking, she was smiling at me.
"Wh- What?"
"Nothing, it's just rare see you smiling. I like it" I groaned a bit, thought my eyebrows didn't wanted to go down. She took some of the plates, "I help you taking it to the table," Eleanor went to the livingroom.
Nodding at her, I took the rest of the plates, following her behind. I exited the kitchen with lots of the Quiches on both of my hands, meeting the stoned stares of everyone in the livingroom, from shocked and excited.
I blinked at the sudden surprise, now that I think about it, the delicious smell was all over the room, that must be what got them here. "Um... lunch, is ready?"
All the pirate crew and Laphicet shouted in happiness, as Eleanor formed a nervous smile placing each Quiche plate on the diverse tables, were everyone quickly sit themselves in groups.
"I didn't thought you will actually make for everyone, " Magilou asked me as I put her portion, she was grinning, "Does the Lord of Calamity developed a soft side after spending time with the boy?"
"What are you talking about?" I closed my eyes containing my bother, "I just was in the mood to cook for everyone, I love cooking."
"I know, but this much? Is enough for the whole Van eltia crew"
"Yes, hope you enjoy it" I smiled at her before going to serve the remaining tables, all of them almost started immediately, talking between each other.
I sit myself between Laphicet and Eleanor, who waited for me alongside Magilou, Bienfu, Eizen and Rokurou.
Laphicet started before the rest of us, "Velvet! Is even better than last time, I love it a lot!" He continued eating with moderation, smiling like an idiot.
I was take aback at the sudden compliment, blushing a little, "It- it is?"
"I agreed! The chesses really complements all the other ingredients, I love this flavor!" Eleanor added.
"Wow, this is a surprising flavor, is so good!" Rokurou said almost shouting, getting a glare from Eleanor at his table manners.
"Not like I'm that much surprised, but you really outdid yourself this time Velvet," Eizen smiled at me, then kept silent as he continued his meal.
Magilou chuckled a bit, "The face everyone in Midgand would have if they knew how the Lord of calamity food is better than any 5 star meal," she kept laughing at bit.
"I'm just satisfied she cook for us again, I missed it so much, Biennnn" Bienfu shouted almost in tears.
"Indeed, nothing like her cooking to boost my spirit!" Phi raised a fist in excitement, I couldn't contain myself smile at his reaction.
"Glad to know, I didn't had any tester this time, but i made sure to use fresh ingredients!" I picked a bite of my Quiche and put it on my mouth. No flavor... I exhaled through my nose slowly, keeping the annoyance to myself.
When was the last time I tasted normal food I consider delicious? I even forgot the sensation...
After devouring living beings for three years, Flesh and Blood was everything my palate flavored and considered worth consuming. I don't know if it was because I'm a daemon, or because I really Love that flavor.
I don't know which one is worse... but I ended used to it. Used to it a lot...
I felt Laphicet gaze on me, inclining his head in confusion, but before I could said what I was feeling, someone interrupted me.
"Velvet, Velvet, This taste amazing, Laphicet was right. I love your Quiche!" Kamoana shouted from the table she was, standing on her chair.
"Th-thanks..." I put one hand over my chest, looking at my side to avoid eye contact.
Melissa quickly corrected Kamoana position, lowering her voice for her just to hear. Dyle who was with them chuckled, "Indeed Velvet, you should had told me you were this good, the crew chef can't compare at all, hahaha"
"I heard you!"
"But is true! I got sick of your food since days ago!" Another pirate added, followed by complaints by other pirates in a row.
More and more members of the crew started shouting insults between them as a result.
I rolled my eyes, the peace I reached was ruined. Eleanor put two fingers on her forehead, closing her eyes, "They not wrong... but is not worth fighting"
Phi continue eating without disturbances, he was lost in heaven. I couldn't help but be relieved at it.
"This guys..." Eizen face palmed, as Rokurou and Magilou were enjoying the verbal fight.
Oh come on! Before Eizen could stand, I loudly put myself on my feet, hitting the table with my hands, obtaining everyone attention, "Stop fighting all of you, we are enjoying our food here. Or you want to sleep under the snow?" I shout in a scowling tone , all the pirates got tensed a bit, looking at each other.
"Alright mom."
"Whatever you said mom."
"I will be a good boy mom."
"Don't worry mom, we understand."
Eleanor was petrified with her mouth opened, Magilou covered her own mouth containing her laugh, Eizen face palmed with both hands, and even Rokurou reacted, looking at them with wide eyes, confused.
Feeling a vein pulsing on my forehead, my right hand broke my fork, as my Therion arm transformed. I pierced all of them with my angered gaze, baring my teeth "Oh, so all of you prefer to end as my desert tonight? Im still hungry and I will not stop until eat all your flesh and limbs!" All my harsh tone turned into a soft slow warning, as my patience was near zero.
All of them almost yelled, getting back to their chair with fear.
"Alright, Velvet!"
"I'm sorry to bother mistress Velvet!"
"I will keep silent Velvet!"
"Understood, Velvet! Sorry!"
"It was a joke, but alright alright, I apologize!" Dyle nervously said after the rest, focusing on his quiche. Kamoana started laughing at his reaction, as Melissa stayed silent just sighing.
Satisfied with their apologies, I sat again with a smile on my face, reverting my arm back. I continue eating, despite not tasting anything, I was enjoying everyone's satisfied reactions, and that was enough.
The rest of the party kept silent, just staring at me between surprised or nervous, and Magilou just grinning.
"I thought- you will going to eat them for real..." Eleanor finally said, still blinking in shock.
"I'm not in the mood for that, but If I heard another one I wouldn't hesitate."
"I-- I see..." She just smiled nervously, continuing eating.
"They were a bit rude, but I'm relieved we can still enjoy you're Quiche together!" Phi said with a smile, before getting another bite.
His words calms me down, as I softened my voice, "Indeed, thank you Phi."
"Eleanor Im confuse, why they called Velvet mom?" Rokurou asked her, almost making her cough by the unexpected question.
I groaned but I let it slide without replying, somehow he understood and apologized immediately, though I was aware he's never serious about it.
"Well, as Bienfu said. She's a perfect wife material, so obviously she would be a perfect mother," Magilou insisted in answer his question.
"Bien?! I said that a long time ago, don't involve me in this discussion Ms. Magilou. I don't want to be eaten!"
"I'm just going to eat this Quiche, unless you want to Include a witch as an extra meal!" I warned her, frowning my temple.
"But is true! You're always taking care of us somehow. Like this morning with our temperatures, or when you told Eleanor to take care of her hygiene. Or almost all the time you're with Laphicet, you're like a mom!"
"But is true! You're always taking care of us somehow. Like this morning with our temperatures, or when you told Eleanor to take care of her hygiene. Or almost all the time you're with Laphicet, you're like a mom!"
"Well... I can't exactly deny that. Aside trying to make the entire crew behave, you sometimes clean the ship, as that room in loegres for more than an hour,you're the type," Eleanor added.
I pressed my fist, feeling my eyebrows going a bit up.
"You even try to scold us when necessary, not like I can refuse with you what not..." Rokurou said, thinking.
"Seconded, or all the time you just decide to make food for us, like it's normal. You're in charge of my ship, but still you cook for us too often" Eizen said, "see you playing the bothersome-in-law is exhausting."
Bienfu sighed, "Or when you got mad at me for waste vegetables I didn't knew were still useful."
Laphicet chuckled nervously, "True, she really has lot of knowledge about cooking, or taking care of anyone, She would be a great mom! In fact, Is like we are.-- huh, Velvet?" He stopped, looking at me, my gaze was down, with an stoic expression.
"Family..." Magilou finished Phi's sentence.
"I wonder if Iwould be able to learn how to make it, will you teach me? I know is a family recipe, but it's just so good!" I remembered Niko telling me, a long time ago.
A family... huh. With tears wanting to come out of my amber eyes, I stood from my chair again, "I need fresh air, all of you can finish without me," I walked toward the door to the kitchen.
"But Velvet, you're Quiche?"
I forced a smile at him, in a calm tone, "You can take it Phi..." I lowered my face, "Is a waste for me to eat it." And I leave the room with the image of Phi extending his arm to me saved in my mind.
"You can do this..." I said after exhale, with an extra plate of Quiche on my hands. I wasn't planning on eating it, in fact, it was for something more important.
Entering the living room of another of the Inns, I spotted Orthie and Russ resting near the smokestack. They ears alerted them of my presence, as they both stood looking at me, growling in anger.
But I kept approaching, "Here, this is for you both. Don't worry, is not poisoned," after crouching, I leave the plate in front of them. They looked at it confused, before return their demonic eyes to me.
"Don't do anything to my dogs, you're monster!" Niko's voice shouted me, feeling her presence in the room. It took me off guard, as I look over my shoulder, noticing nothing but thin air, still, in my mind she was here...
My hands started to tremble. As my lips found difficult to form a smile, one that I tried to maintain remembering day's long gone with my friend, "I want you to listen to what I'm about to say," they stopped growling, waiting patiently. "This is my family's quiche... my sister's specialty, everyone in my house was always looking forward to it." I felt a pressure inside my head, but I continued, "the secret is knead the dough in a special way, and use two types of cheese to turn out right. You also need to balance perfectly the egg and cream, then make sure don't to leave any moisture in the filling..." I lowered my eyes, hiding them behind my bangs, my tears finally came out.
Celica always baked this quiche on special days, or when she felt I was feeling down, wanting to cheer me up and smile. She loved be at my side, I enjoyed my time with her a lot. Learn to make her Quiche perfectly was one of my remaining dreams.
"Why are you telling them this?"
"Laphicet!"
Surprised, I widened my eyes a bit, without looking back. Phi and Eleanor were behind me, I couldn't help but be a little relieved.
"I-- I promised Niko to teach her the recipe once I mastered it..." the dogs relaxed their stance at her mention, "You both... promise me you will pass it to her, please... I'm not going where Niko is..."
"Velvet..."
Releasing a whine, like how they always did back then when they were scolded by their master, they proceeded to eat the Quiche. I took it like a yes.
"Thank you, I count on you both..."
I stood and finally turned around, meeting Laphicet looking down, he approached me trying to say something.
"Please don't say anything, Niko wouldn't be able to rest in peace if you try to console me... her murderer," I added the last part in a slightly harsh tone, not angry with their intent, but with myself, for all the lives of everyone in aball I stole...
"Are you serious...?" I gasped a bit to Eleanor sudden question, looking at her with a stoic expression, upset. Her face was a bit unreadable, despite being worried just seconds ago
Phi has his gaze down, for his face, I confirmed he was taking her side this time. That made me groan a little.
"Of course, I killed her... didn't you heard me?"
'Niko' ghost was looking down, just behind Eleanor and Phi. She was pressing her fist, as fury appeared on her eyes, "Monster... I don't need you're stupid recipe, give me back my life"
Hearing that I closed my eyes, pressing my teeth, eyelids, even my toes and fist, "I don't know how... Niko."
"You killed... her daemon form." I opened my eyes again, as I shot a death glare to Eleanor. "As I wounded Kamoana's mother to death in self defense, we didn't knew it was them." Her glare was also in anger, refusing to felt intimidate at me, "Even if we did, I'm glad it turned this way..."
"You're glad I killed my best friend?!"
"I'm glad you saved her before she could go free and murder other families! Do you really prefer that fate for her?" My eyes slightly widened at her voice, it's been a long while since I heard her so upset at me.
"I... I..." I couldn't find what more to say, understanding her point, even Niko's ghost disappeared, like she was never there to begin, just part of my head.
"I agreed with Eleanor, you saved her." Phi intervenes, "by kill her before she ruin more life, or be slaughtered by another person. Besides, I don't think she would be happy seeing you suffering..."
"How do you know..."
"Because, we don't like it either..."
More calm down, I released a tired sigh, "Do whatever you want..." I simply said indifferent, "Even if that's true, it doesn't change the fact I took her life, alongside my whole town..." I started walking towards the door, until Eleanor put herself to block it, as Laphicet stopped behind me.
"Velvet, please. You're shouldering too much on yourself..." I heard Phi said.
"You're not the only one who caused chaos, neither the one who turned you like this... you just followed you're emotions." Eleanor added, her voice was full of confidence as she opened the door for me.
"Alright..." was all I said to them, leaving the room behind, losing myself in my thoughts for the rest of the day.
There's not escape from all the sins, and destruction I committed...
"You're ugly malevolence..."
They both believe in me, but their pity and support barely vanishes in the malevolence inside my heart, I'ma horrible person...
I just deserve to be hated...
Day's later, after we appeared in Titania leaving the earthpulse once again. We were in the Van Eltia going to port Zekson; it was finally time to fight against both Artorius and Innominat.
We discovered a place called the heavenly step that used to attract malaks to the realms where they come from. A seraphim called Zui Fuu told us the Truth about malevolence, and how Innominat was destined to keep suppressing it then let it getting spread in an eternal cycle.
As the rest of the crew and my party was on their quarters, I was on Grimoirh guest room, I needed answers.
"Grimoirh, there's something else I should know about Innominat in the book?" Putting one hand over my waist, I patiently waited her answer.
She closed her eyes releasing a sigh, before shook her head, "Nothing else Velvet, I already searched all pages again, but there's nothing else of importance to know."
I looked aside frowning my eyebrows, not the answer I wanted, but nothing I could really do something about, and it really frustrates me. How I'm going to save Phi and the Therions... If only...
"But there's one thing you should know about," I put my eyes on her again, focused on her voice, "The Devouring power of Innominat and it's Therions are practically the same, that's why your power is so devastating, even if it's more limited in variations than him.
"The same huh..." I raised my bandage hand, looking at my palm, I could feel the malevolence and urges within it, tempting me to keep consuming.
That really explains why my abilities were that powerful since the start. As long my preys were unable to fight back, trapped on my Therion hand, or by my mouth I could consume them without problems, not matter the size, not matter if it's more powerful, after all my power is part of him, a god who requires malevolence to keep living, and eight types of creatures to being able to revive. I could easily devour him too, as long I have the option, there was not limit.
I closed my hand in a fist, as I put it down, "That's all I needed to know..." I nodded thanking her in silence before leaving the room, pressing my lips as lot of thoughts were crossing my mind.
"Wait, Velvet...--!" I closed the door behind me without let her talk, maybe she figured out my idea to deal with that god, so it was for the better avoid further discussions of that subject.
It was strange for me how Innominat needed the Therions locked in earthpulse points to be able to fully revive, if he exactly needed a little amount just for different types of malevolence, that explains why even after I escaped Titania the process continue without troubles. Something tells me Seres didn't wanted me to knew all the Truth, so she kept away that secret from me, despite the beast I become, her Celica's memories wanted me to be safe. Fate was indeed cruel.
My solution to all this problem was left to my hand, by Artorius and Laphi themselves.
But I was relieved, of probably having a chance to end all of this without losing anyone else...
I committed too many sins, I took away a lot of lives, I ruined the world peace my brother's worked hard to succeed, I'm a selfish sister... A small smile appeared on my lips, and is my duty to clean my dear brother's mess.
Arthur... Laphi... I miss you both...
"You deserve to live!"
Hearing Phi's words again I lowered my gaze, pressing my teeths together, part of me really wanted to believe in him, but most of my will didn't believe it could be possible.
I don't deserve it, and there's nothing left for me in this world... I'm just a disaster... all natural disasters always come and go away...
As I exit the halls of the ship, now in the harbor I closed my eyes feeling the brises, approaching the rear of the dock, watching the ocean in silence at the night sky, one more time.
"Oh Velvet, you're here"
Looking back at me, I found Phi, finishing an extra plate of the Quiche, taking another bite.
I exhaled, frowning at the sight, "What are you doing eating here, that's bad manners, get back to the dining room!" I scowled him, crossing my arms.
"No!" He replied smiling, taking another bite and swallowed it, "I was worried about you so I wanted to know... are you ok, Velvet?"
"I'm fine... just, too much is on my mind right now," I lifted my gaze to the sky, noticing two birds flying, despite being late. "I never thought I would end up travelling the world... it was Laphi's dream, how ironic.
Phi smiled, reminiscing our journey, "It was fun, I never thought I would meet so different people, culture, or even ancient ruins. It was more exciting that just read about it on my books." I meet his eyes once again, he was excited to share his thoughts, "it was all thanks to you, Velvet."
I released a little chuckle, "Well, I can deny that. I don't really know why I took you away from Teresa back then, it just felt... right," I put one hand over my chest.
"At the time I thought I would just end on your stomach... and I was fine with it?"
I shrugged my shoulders, "You wanted to just fulfill my orders, somehow stealing you put your mind at my command. I wonder how exactly the abby mind control works."
He widened his eyes, "Oh, I remember. You gave me the impression of be the leader, and besides, you were the one who took my hand as we run away from there."
"Yeah..." We both smiled at each other, then he put himself at my side, near the railing at the sea "You remind me a lot to Laphi, but you're not him. And I'm happy with that, you're just you.
"Likewise, I thought you were a scary monster that would eat me any time, far from that despite be menacing and angry; you told me how to live, with your kindness and care; Now you're just Velvet Crowe to me."
Kindness and care... he told me that a lot of times.
"You saved me..."
I kept silent, smiling. Waiting for him to continue.
"Without you, I wouldn't be who I am today. I'm really grateful Velvet, for everything."
"Phi..." why do you look so confident, and sad?
He took my right hand, giving it a little squeeze, "Everything will be fine, we're gonna success, and be back safe after deal with them. I know" he assured, with high determination.
"I know we will." I nodded, patting his head with my bandage hand, he blushed at the attention, changing his expression to fluttered at the second, "You're strong Phi, I know you will move on... unlike me."
"I don't know If that's true."
I raised both eyebrows, his tone was lowered, and he was hiding his expression. So I couldn't tell how he was really feeling, making me a little anxious, but before I could keep asking, he gave me a hug, I gasped surprised, as he was hiding his face on my abdomen.
"You are, I'm sure of that. Not matter how hard or difficult, you will still be yourself, I'm sure I will be proud of what kind of person you become in the future. " Phi was just starting his life, there's a lot in this world I gladly would had liked to teach him, or discover at his side. In all the chaos inside my heart, he was the little light that gave me hope, for the future of this world. That's why, I want him to have that future.
I don't know what the future awaits for me, and I'm not interested in knowing it before hand. I already accepted my story was near it's conclusion, there's nothing for me here anymore, there's no one who would greet me, or fall in love with me. Just people who are scare of the Lord of calamity, and a kingdom who needs hope to keep moving forward, and as long I remain here, that wouldn't be possible.
I don't want more sacrifices, I don't want more people like me to suffer. Everyone deserves to have a happy life, and never be betrayed by their love ones.
Velvet Crowe is just a selfish, miserable girl... no one would grief her death, no one would remember her outside her daemonic title, and all the atrocities she devastated.
I just want to end this madness, and be proud knowing there will be hope in the coming future... I caressed Phi's hair, wiping my eyes with my other hand. I'm so happy to be able to smile with him, a least one more time.
Minutes later, Phi told me he will discuss something with Grimoirh before going to rest for the night. I offered him to sleep together, but he refused instantly, leaving the dock embarrassed. Ah, I would had liked his company.
Resting my arms on the view, I kept watching the ocean, feeling the peace of the night; I probably would stay here just lost in thoughts until tomorrow.
I watched my hands again, the ones who took a lot of lives, was now the remaining hope for the future, not just for humanity, but malaks alike, ironic situation.
Artorius always prioritized the many over the individual, he gave up his own humanity the moment Celica died. What I thought was a lie, ended being a genuinely happy family that tragedy took away their hopes.
We are not that different...
"Why do you think birds fly, Velvet?"
I finally know, "You always like to overcomplicate you're own questions, Arthur..." I released a giggle, lifting my gaze to the sky again.
Everyone gave me totally different answers, even I did three years ago, but now it drastically changed.
I sensed Eleanor coming closer to me, It was a good moment to ask a last favor.
At the end of the day, I was a bird, who didn't wanted to fly...
To be continued...
Author notes:
I was planning on end the prologue in this chapter, but it will be even more longer that I would like to, so the final battle conclusion and the ending of the game will be right in the next one. There's really a lot that you can discover before face Artorius for the last time, and is full of new information plus skits around everywhere that enrich the plot and characters more, and more is added in the post game, like the extra dungeon and the conclusion of the cameo battle, I tried to tie some of them, as leaving days apart where they explored the world with some side missions.
I really love keep writing in Velvet's pov, I know she don't usually show her weakness in front of everyone so that's why most of the time I tried for her to be lost in thoughts or alone for that, she really need a break, but at that point she just want to finish everything. Anyway, I will try to post next chapter sooner, before new years a least. So I can finally start her second chance.
Thanks for reading!