Here we are at Chapter 3. Time to see how Fuyumi handles dealing with her new noble friends and what comes after that. I do not own Code Vein or Skeleton Knight. They belong to their respective owners. I only own my OCs. Here's chapter 3. Enjoy.
Chapter 3: A Noble Encounter
Out in the forests beyond Lumiere Town, Fuyumi interferes in what looks like a group of bandits attacking a noble carriage. After knocking their leader away from the girl, Fuyumi readies her sword for a fight.
"W-What the Hell?! Where'd this chick come from?" one of the bandits loses his cool.
"Who... Who are you?" the girl asks.
Fuyumi glances at her, "Don't worry, it'll be alright," and then releases her.
The leader gets back up and rubs his head, "What are you idiots doing? Get her!" The bandits shake out of their stupor and ready their weapons. "You really shouldn't play with swords, sweetheart. You could get hurt. But, we'll forgive you... if you simply come with us for some fun. Who knows, you'll probably like it too," the leader chuckles.
The other goons laugh with him before they charge at her. Fuyumi moves forth, deflecting one strike with her sword before slashing through the chest of one bandit. Another comes from the side, but Fuyumi stabs her blade through his chest. As a third comes from behind, Fuyumi rips the blade out of her second victim, swinging around to bisect the third foe. Two more come in, but Fuyumi kills them quickly by firing off some ice shards to impale them. The last three hesitate to strike, but Fuyumi doesn't wait. She spins and makes a quick slash, Shadow Assault, that slices through all three of them. That just leaves the leader. The two noble women stand behind Fuyumi in slight horror at the bloody scene while she faces her last opponent.
The leader scratches his head, "You sure made a mess of things. Do you know how long it's gonna take to get more guys to replenish the ones you killed here?"
"You won't have to worry about that. Because you'll be joining them," Fuyumi notes.
The leader pulls out his greatsword, "Come on now, sweetheart. We could be friends, you know. Think of it: taking whatever we want, kill anyone who gets in our way. Steal all these nobles riches and have some fun to ourselves at night. What's so bad about that?"
"So many reasons, actually. But honestly, I just don't like people who kill and rape for pleasure," Fuyumi readies her blade.
The leader shrugs his shoulders, "Too bad then. Hah!" he raises his sword and smashes it on the ground, causing a shockwave across the area.
"Hmm, was that magic, or some kind of technique unique to this world?" Fuyumi wonders while keeping her balance.
The man then jumps into the air, his sword reeled back, "You're mine!"
However, before he can finish his attack, Fuyumi holds her blade by her side, and without anyone seeing it, suddenly several slash strikes appear all over the leader, taking him down: Tranquil Slice.
The leader falls to the ground, a bloody mess, "H-How..." and then takes his last breath.
Fuyumi sighs before holstering her blade, "It's strange, I've never killed a person before, yet, I didn't really feel anything when I killed these bandits. I feel no sympathy or pity for them, and I do not regret killing them. There are some people out there that are simply beyond redemption and much be put down so innocent people will not suffer from them. Could it be because I'm a revenant now and not a human, or because Fuyumi as killed before in the game. Those were lost or horrors, but still..." she wonders as she stares at the bodies around her. She turns to the noble women, who are still recovering from the sight. "Are you two unharmed?"
The mother speaks first, "Y-Yes, we are fine. Apologies, we are not used to such scenes. But, we are grateful for your aid. Who are you, if I may ask? From what noble house do you claim?"
"I'm Fuyumi Kusanagi. I'm a mercenary, not a noble. I was out here completing a quest when I heard some commotion and arrived to fine the scene before me," she glances at the dead guards. "Though, it appears it wasn't in time. My condolences for the loss of your men," she offers a nod.
"T-thank you for your words, Miss Kusanagi. Please, allow me to introduce myself. I am Duchess Eleonora Magikan von Crystalglove. This is my daughter, Emilia Ikenia von Crystalglove," Eleonora introduces themselves.
"H-How do you do?" Emilia stutters, probably still in shock.
"A pleasure. I'd like to speak further with you, but this isn't the place. There could be more bandits or even monsters nearby. While you two collect yourselves, I'll gather the bodies of your men and dispose of the bandits. Please, take your time," Fuyumi walks away.
"Oh, thank you, miss," Eleonora replies, while Emilia stares at Fuyumi.
While the noble ladies remain in the carriage, Fuyumi gathers the bodies of their dead soldiers and servants off to the side of the road. With the help of her abilities, she creates some makeshift graves for them and buries them. As for the bandits, after looting their bodies for any valuables (mostly some coins, but not much else), she burns them so they don't rot. A few minutes later, she finishes her task and returns to the carriage when the mother steps out.
"Forgive me for my rudeness, Lady Kusanagi-," Eleonora begins.
Fuyumi raises a hand, "Please, just Fuyumi is fine. I'm not one for formalities,"
"I see; Fuyumi then. Miss Fuyumi, after losing our guards and servants, we are rather defenseless out here in the wilderness. May I ask you to act as our bodyguard until we reach our destination? You have my word that you will be compensated for your services," Eleonora asks.
Fuyumi thinks on it for a moment, "In my experience from books, games, and anime, it tends to get really troublesome when dealing with nobles, especially the greedy, corrupt, and idiotic kind that believe themselves above everyone else. But..." she stares at Emilia, who looks almost pleading that she'll agree. "As long as they're paying. Besides, if she's a duchess, then she's from a powerful family. It couldn't hurt to have some powerful connections who owe me a favor," and she makes her decision. "Very well. But, first we must go to Lumiere Town. I have to finish some business there. Then, we can move to your destination,"
"Yes, that is fine. Lumiere Town is a stopping point on our way back to our home in Crystalglove city. My husband has more soldiers waiting for us there to escort us back to the city. I'll explain things to them when we meet them," Eleonora explains.
Fuyumi nods, "That works for me. Then we'll head for Lumiere. Once we meet up with your husband's soldiers, then that should suffice enough. Then I'll leave to go finish my own work,"
"Wait, no!" Emilia suddenly blurts out.
"Emilia?" Eleonora stares at her daughter.
Emilia realizes her mistake, "I-I mean, perhaps you could escort us all the way back to the city. After what happened, I'd feel a lot safer with you going with us. And we'll be able to more properly pay you when we're back home," she comes up with an excuse.
Fuyumi raises an eyebrow, but Eleonora sighs, "I suppose if it wouldn't be too much trouble; would you be willing to escort us all the way back to Crystalglove. We'll pay you accordingly. While we discuss things with the guards, you can go and finish your business in town. We'll meet up later after that. Would that suffice?"
"That is fine, but we'd best get moving now," Fuyumi says.
While the two noble women return inside the carriage, Fuyumi takes the reins of the horses. They make their way back to town. During the trip, Eleonora discusses things with her daughter.
"Are you feeling better, Emilia?" Eleonora asks.
Emilia lightly nods, "Yes, Mother, I think so. It still feels a little unreal though. I guess we should thank the Goddess for showing mercy upon us with Lady Fuyumi's timely intervention,"
"Yes, she certainly is... unique," Eleonora notes.
"Mother?" Emilia cocks her head.
"Forgive me, but it's just a little strange is all. First, her appearance. She is quite beautiful, so much so that it's understandable someone would mistake her from being from a noble house. What's more, her magic. She cast magic without any chants. That's normally impossible, even for a skilled mage. Her skills for a sword are good as well. Our guards are well-trained, yet that bandit leader tore through them like they were fresh recruits. Yet, she defeated him with such ease. It's clear that she's well-experienced in combat. Having lived with your father for so long has taught me that. Why would a person like that be doing work as a mercenary?" Eleonora wonders.
"Maybe she's not from the Kingdom of Anatolia? One of the countries to the southeast perhaps?" Emilia suggests.
"Hmm, perhaps... But, at the very least, the fact remains that she saved us in our time of need. We must repay her for her aid. I especially want to repay her for saving you, my dear daughter," Eleonora smiles.
Emilia blushes in embarrassment, "Mother, please..." she pouts, causing her mother to giggle.
Soon enough, they make it back to Lumiere Town. The guards at the gate wanted to questions Fuyumi about why she's arriving in a carriage for nobles, but Eleonora quickly shut them up and they went on their way. Inside the town, they make their way to the noble district, were the nobles stay in the city. There, they eventually find a groups of soldiers waiting for them, with someone clad in knightly armor at the front. The knight has silver armor over most of his body, and a light blue cape to go with it. On his waist is a sword with an intricate gold hilt in a black scabbard. He has short blonde hair and green eye. When they see the carriage, and Fuyumi in the driver's seat, the soldiers immediately draw their swords.
"Halt and identify yourself. You are in possession of a carriage belonging to the noble Crystalglove family. Surrender and tell us where the duchess and her daughter are now!" the knight orders her.
Fuyumi sighs, "Of course you would automatically think me a criminal," she mutters.
"Men, take her into custody!" the knight orders his men, who begin to move.
"You will do no such thing," A voice calls out and everyone stops to see Eleonora and Emilia exit the carriage.
"Lady Eleonora, Lady Emilia, you're safe. Thank the Goddess. My ladies, please, let us handle this," the knight asks.
"I said you'll do no such thing. I won't allow you to besmirch the one who saved the lives of my daughter and I," Eleonora will not have it.
"Saved? Milady, please explain. Who is this woman and where are your guards?" the knight asks.
"We were on our way back when our carriage was assaulted by bandits. They had a strong one amongst them as their leader, who slaughtered our guards. They were about to do horrible things to us when this woman. Lady Fuyumi Kusanagi, came and saved us. She is a mercenary that was working on a quest of hers when she came upon our dilemma and lent us her air. We have thus hired her to serve as our escort until we return home to Crystalglove City. You will not show her such disrespect. Is that understood?" Eleonora uses her authority in defense of Fuyumi.
"She saved you? I, but..." the knight is about to argue, but one look from Eleonora shuts him up. "I see, I understand. Men, hold your swords," the knight orders, and the soldiers do just that. The knight then walks up to Fuyumi and offers a bow with a hand to his chest. "My thanks for protecting the duchess and Lady Emilia, Lady Fuyumi. I am Ser Conrad Deleshum, Captain in the 5th Knight regiment. I am in charge of protecting the Ducal family of Crystalglove. Apologies for the... reception. But, when we saw you, a stranger, controlling their carriage, and no guards in sight, we were cautious,"
Fuyumi waves it off, "It's understandable. Better to be cautious than vulnerable. Well, Lady Eleonora, Lady Emilia, I'll be off to finish up my business, then I shall return. It won't take long," and with that, she takes her leave.
As she leaves, Emilia keeps her eyes on her and only her.
"Lady Emilia... Lady Emilia!" a sudden voice knocks her out of her stupor and she turns to Conrad. "Are you alright, Milady?"
"Yes, I am fine, Ser Conrad. Thank you for your concern," Emilia replies.
"I see. It would be best to come inside where it's safe. I can surmise that it's been a long day for you two. Please, come," Conrad offers.
The mother and daughter head inside while the knight glances at Fuyumi's direction before heading in. It doesn't take long for Fuyumi to collect her reward for gathering the herbs. Sarah even let her keep the forms on them for future reference. After her business was concluded at the guild and at the inn she was staying at, Fuyumi returned to the noble district. When she arrived, the security there had been informed that she would arrive and that they were to allow her passage. She arrives at the rather majestic estate where Eleonora and Emilia were waiting for them.
Emilia approaches her with a smile, "Lady Fuyumi, you're here!"
"Please, Lady Emilia, just Fuyumi is fine. I'm not a noble," Fuyumi asks.
Emilia starts to get a little flustered, "Huh, but... well, we just met and all. It would be improper. But, if you insist, then... F-Fuyumi," she blushes a bit.
"Lady Fuyumi," Eleonora approaches. "Have you finished your business?"
"I have, Lady Eleonora. I'm ready to go if you are," Fuyumi says.
Eleonora nods, "Good. Then, we'd best get-,"
"Hold on a moment, Milady," Ser Conrad approaches. "Please, forgive me for interrupting, but there is something I must confirm first,"
"And what would that be?" Fuyumi asks.
"I believe what Lady Eleonora said about you saving her and Lady Emilia, but if you are to act as their bodyguard until we reach Crystalglove city, then I need to make sure you're up to the task," Conrad says.
It's not hard to figure out his motive, "You wish to duel me,"
Conrad nods, "A demonstration of your supposed skills, yes. It is my duty to protect this family. While they willed it, I still need to be sure that you can protect them. So yes, a duel. No killing involved, but everything else is fair game,"
"Ser Conrad, what are you doing?" Emilia exclaims.
"No, it's fine. If I were in your position, I'd be wary too. I except your proposal," Fuyumi accepts. "I've fought against animals, monsters, and bandits, but what about a knight? This should prove a good chance to further test myself. I need to see how I compare against someone with actual training."
The group head to the courtyard, with Emilia and Eleonora sitting in a shaded area prepared for them, and the rest of the soldiers watch from the sidelines. A pair of mages with staffs and clad in robes stand nearby to offer medical treatment should the need arise. One soldier stands at the center of the courtyard to act as the judge.
The soldier raises his sword, "Are the contestants ready?" Both fighters take out their blades. "And... begin!" he swings his sword down.
Conrad makes the first move, racing straight at Fuyumi. Swinging his blade from the side, he goes for her left side. However, Fuyumi backflips over the strike. When she lands, she jumps forth, making a downward slash that Conrad blocks. He pushes her back, but Fuyumi redirects his blade away from her. She spins as she makes another strike at him, but he manages to block the attack. The two separate, but then Fuyumi slides her left hand across the edge of her blade, coating it in an icy veil. This takes Conrad by surprise, along with everyone else. Fuyumi makes a quick strike, which Conrad blocks. However, he notices how frost starts to spread across his blade. He jumps back and swings his sword around to get the frost off.
"Using magic without a chant. So what Lady Eleonora said was true. But, will it be enough?" Conrad notes.
Fuyumi makes no reply other than charging at him. The two begin a series of strikes and parries, keeping each other from dealing what would be a harmful blow. The audience watches in awe of the duel. The soldiers who know Conrad know he's pretty good with a blade, and yet this woman is matching him move-for-move. They were mesmerized by it. Especially Emilia, who can't take her eyes off of Fuyumi for a second. Conrad readies his blade.
"Burn bright upon my blade, and consume my enemies in the fires of destruction. Flame blade!" fire coats his blade.
"So, there are similar techniques here. Interesting," Fuyumi mutters.
"Your ice won't do a thing to my fire," Conrad notes.
Fuyumi only smirks while Conrad makes another charge. He makes a few swings at Fuyumi, who dodges the strikes and avoids the flames. Conrad makes a wide swing, sending out an arc of flames at Fuyumi. Fuyumi, rather than evade it, raises her ice blade and swings it down, cutting right through the arc unharmed. Conrad comes in and thrusts his blade at Fuyumi, but Fuyumi deflects it and gets within his guard, throwing a lightning charge at his body. The strike shocks him and sends him flying across the courtyard. Once more, everyone is shocked by the display. As Conrad slowly gets onto one knee, he finds the tip of Fuyumi's blade at his face.
"Well, are you satisfied?" Fuyumi asks.
Conrad narrows his eyes a bit, but hangs his head, "I concede. I am satisfied,"
"The winner is Fuyumi Kusanagi!" the announcer calls out.
Emilia and Eleonora clap for Fuyumi, while the soldiers remain in shock at Conrad's defeat.
Conrad stands and sheathes his sword, "I can see why Lady Eleonora and Lady Emilia want to hire you. While it pains me to say it a little, your skills outclass my own. Especially your magic. Chanting is a fundamental part of casting magic, but it is also its greatest weakness. While chanting, those that cast magi are vulnerable. My magic is limited, which is why I train more with the sword than spellcraft. How did you learn to do that if I might ask?"
"Brutal training that was outside training grounds for a school or military, luck, imagination, or something else. I don't really know myself. I've been able to do so for some time. I spent a lot of time training my abilities in order to survive out in the real world. Where I come from, if you can't fight, you can't survive," Fuyumi says convincingly enough.
"I see. Well, as long as you bear no ill will to the Duke and his family, you are welcome to join us," Conrad says and the pair shake hands.
"Alright, I think that's enough of that. It's starting to get late. Fuyumi, why not spend the night here? This way, we can all leave early tomorrow to return to Crystalglove city. We have a few spare rooms," Eleonora offers.
"Well, since I checked out at the inn, I guess I wouldn't mind. As long as Ser Conrad doesn't mind," Fuyumi says.
"It is fine. It is getting late. A lady shouldn't be by herself at night," Conrad jokes.
"Any other lady, yes, but I'm not just some lady," Fuyumi retorts, earning a chuckle from Conrad.
With that, they all head inside the manor. A pair of maids show Fuyumi to her room for the night. After cleaning up and taking a rather luxurious bath, Fuyumi heads in for the night. Tomorrow was bound to be a busy day.
And that's the chapter. Fuyumi saves the Crystalglove family from a bandit attack, thus earning her their good will. After dueling a knight under their charge, Fuyumi now finds herself in their service until they reach Crystalglove City. What kind of encounters will she have along the way, and after she gets there? Until then, please Read and Review.
