- 2 Days later -
Just on top of a hill with Feh on shoulder and Red Hare, Arisa looked at the Garreg Mach Monastery. The hills held a greenery unlike any other. The monastery reminds her of Notre Dame in Paris. The town near the monastery was lively. She could see knights coming and an out. People of the church also. Children running and playing. Wyverns flying along with more pegasus. Looking at this scenery in person, the artwork from the game did not compare to the real thing.
"It's beautiful..." both her and Sothis whispered as they continued to take in the view. She took out the map she pickpocketed from Beleth 5 years ago and stared at it.
"I have...sigh...I have been wanting to see this place in person with my own eyes. Now seeing it, it's so much more beautiful than seeing it in a game." Arisa said as she closed the map.
Slowly, she rode Red Hare to the Monastery, and smiled as she saw the citizens going around. Before they entered, she used a spell to hide his wings because she I'd not want to be confused as a knight. She got off her horse and walked through the town first before she headed to the Monastery. The place reminded her of how lovely it is during the time in August, since it is almost the end of summer.
"Get you Book of Prayers here!" A priest yelled from his stand as she walked by.
"Chocolate cakes!" A baker yelled out from his stall.
"Come get your flowers! Freshly picked every day!" A kind plump woman yelled out.
"Feh, Sothis, Red Hare, let's get some flowers to show our respects." Arisa said and walked to the flower shop.
"Hello there! Young traveler huh? I'm guessing you're in your coming of age journey huh?" The shop lady smirked, and Arisa smiled.
"Yes. I heard a lot about this town from my dad and wanted to come visit. Oh! Can I get a bouquet of lilies, white rose? Also, I'll buy a few carrots and a bag of dried tuna." She said.
"Of c- Kasdan get your head out of the book and go get me a new basket of carrots!" The shop lady suddenly yelled to her son, who was sitting on a crate and reading a book.
"Oh, come on ma! Just let me finish this chapter on Morgan le Fey!" Her son whined as he went back to reading his book.
The woman immediately brought her foot up and removed her sandal to throw at him.
"OKAY! I WILL! JUST DON'T THROW IT!" And her son bolted to get the basket.
"No matter the culture or world I am, the chancla is the one universal thing everyone fears." Arisa sweat drops as Feh chirped.
Sothis was laughing at this as the boy came back panting and handed her a bag of carrots. The shop lady gave her the flowers along with the fish. Total was 13 bronze coins.
- 20 minutes later -
After getting a proper meal, she had gone to the stables to leave Red Hare there. Of course, the knight guarding the place asked her why she was here, and she responded honestly that she was here to take the medical exam. The man wished her good luck as she handed the reins to him. She also left Feh there with him. Before she went to register for the exam, she decided to visit the cemetery, to see her mother's grave. The girl let go of a shaky sigh as she made her way around the monastery. Everything was amazing, seeing it all in person. Just...the game was nothing compared to the real thing. For now, she avoided going to the cathedral and made her way straight to the cemetery. She saw a couple students there, praying to their loved ones. Arisa and Sothis were silent as they respectfully made their way to one particular grave. She used some magic to clean it up, revealing gold letters engraved into the white marble stone.
In loving memory of Rosa
[ ? - 1159]
Arisa sucked in her breath as she stared at the letters and stood still with the bouquet of flowers in her arms. She smiled softly as she placed the flowers down, then back up she stood.
"Hey mom... I hope you're doing well up there..." she muttered softly and turned to leave to where the registration for the exam is taking place, inside the Black Eagles classroom.
- 10 minutes later -
It was a ten-minute walk to the Black Eagle's classroom. She noticed that there were hardly any students so that meant the semester had yet to start. The girl sees a line of men and women, mostly much older than her. Now that she noticed, there was literally no one her age in line! She felt eyes on her as she walked to the line, but walked confidently, to not show fear. She stood behind a woman who seemed to be in her mid-30's. She seemed kind.
"Oh? My aren't you young. It is quite rare to see someone your age take the exam." The woman spoke to her and Arisa smiled.
"I have been a doctor for quite some time. I want to test myself and see if I prepared for the next step." She said and the old woman nodded with a warm smile.
"Ha!" The two turned to see a man with a horrible moustache and smirk, "A child taking this exam is absorbed. Even more since you are commoner girl. Go back to your village and be a good little girl and play with dolls." The man said.
"And no wonder you are still single." Arisa bluntly said and many snorted or burst out laughing at the response she gave, while the nobleman had turned red with embarrassment and anger.
The old woman chuckled and smirked to her.
"I like you! What's your name kid?" The woman said as she shook hands with her.
"Kiana Kalsana, nice to meet you." Arisa said and instantly everyone looked at her shocked.
"K-Kiana Kalsana?!" One man stuttered and Arisa was confused.
"Yes. Is something wrong with my name?" Arisa said and the woman spoke.
"You're the one that made the cure and worked with Doctor Emily to save the people of Galatea Territory five years ago, correct?" The woman said.
"Yes? Emily and I worked together to make medicine. The people were suffering. I couldn't just sit back, and watch lives be lost." Arisa said and the woman hugged her suddenly.
"Thank you, thank you!" The woman said joyfully, "It's because of you, my husband was able to be cured! Thank you so much!" She hugged her tightly and Arisa was just confused.
"Wait, wait!" Arisa backed away a bit, "I'm happy that your husband was cured but how do you all know my name?" Arisa said and one older man in his late 60's spoke.
"Your quite famous. Based on your reaction, you don't know." He sighed, "After the new antibiotic was used, along with the introductions of new methods a farming, also the practice of washing our hands, your name has spread out all over Fodlan." He explained and the woman spoke again.
"You're a hero in The Kingdom! How could you not know?!" The woman said.
"I...left to study in medicine Almyra for 3 years and two years in Sreng. I have been traveling around the world. I just recently come back to Fodlan a month ago." She said and a few people began to mutter.
"So," the noble man from before spoke, "you're an outsider?" He said and eyes instantly laid one her.
"What? I was born here in Fodlan! I'm also a mercenary, thank you very much sir! Of course, I'm going to be travelling!" Arisa said and one of the women in back cheered.
"Yes! Fellow mercenary!" She said and Arisa let go of a sigh.
She didn't think making the antibiotic and introducing new practices would make her...famous. Now she's worried she's going to have unwanted attention.
"Alright, everyone in line!"
Everyone turned to see the one who yelled that, but Arisa froze. She instantly recognized Beleth, because he hasn't aged one bit but this the first time, she is seeing Seteth. The man has sharp dark green eyes, dark green shoulder length hair with a bit of a small beard. He also wore his gold like crown on his head. He wore the blue and gold uniform of the advisor of the Church of Serios. His presence was intimidating. His sharp eyes as he looked at everyone one by one, but only stopped for a split second on her. Everyone instantly got in line as he walked to the entrance of the Black Eagle's classroom, where a table was set. Accompanying the two were also a one of the students that was in training to become a Knight of Serios. Arisa was barely able to recognize her, it was a young Catherine, true name, Cassandra. The 22-year-old woman still had tan skin, blond locks of hair but were let loose to her waist. She wore a similar armor to the one she wears in the future. Arisa thanked the whatever Gods in the sky, that she drank the potion to temporary transform her Crest of one of Serios. Catherine looked at all the people and her eyes stopped on her.
"Seteth," Catherine whispered to him, "the girl with black hair and blue flowers on her head, she has a Crest." She whispered and Seteth nodded.
He turned back to the line and spoke.
"Each of you are to leave your bags on that table," he pointed to a wooden table next to the entrance, "before you enter the classroom. Make sure to have your payment of 2 silver coins ready." He ordered and everyone took out their money.
"You will write register here with Seteth, make sure to alright down where your current stay is so we may inform you if you passed or not. Once done, find an empty seat in the classroom and wait for further instructions." Beleth said and everyone nodded.
Arisa watched as she saw one by one each person pays and register for the exam. Her heartbeat as it was her turn and now stood in front of Seteth.
"Hmm...quite young. You look no older than my sister." He said and Arisa smiled.
"Very well. Register here and place your two silver coins here." He said as he handed her the quill and she place the coins in the golden box.
She wrote down her name as "Kiana Kalsana" along that she is staying in an inn in town. Seteth raised an eyebrow as he looked at the name and then looked back to her. He was silent for a moment and nodded.
"Good luck." Was all he said, and Arisa have a polite bow, which he was confused by, before she went into the classroom.
The class was way bigger, and the tables were set to fit a total of 100 students. She spotted a desk near the warm chimney.
She looked around, seeing two knights set at the entrance. Another two are set outside. 5 minutes passed and the last person was seated. Seteth entered along with Catherine and Beleth but also...she hid her frown, just barely. The smile she had again, when she saw "Tomas". Unfortunately, she couldn't tell if it was actually Tomas or Solon. From what she remembered; Tomas did not return to monastery till 1179 but it could be possible he returned earlier than anticipated just like how Marianne was adopted way before she was 14. The three walked to the front desk and turned their way, to face the class.
"As you all know, " Seteth spoke, "you will be taking the Holy Medical Exam to see if you qualify to become a Holy Magus. On your desk, there is a booklet of 100 questions." He said.
Arisa looked down to her desk and saw the book and broke the wax seal keeping it closed.
"50 questions are multiple choice and 50 are to be written by hand." Tomas explained, "You all have 3 hours to complete the exam. We have eyes watching to make sure no one even tries to cheat. No talking during the exam. If you are suspected of dishonesty during the test, you will be eliminated and escorted out." Beleth said.
"Open your books to the first page." Tomas said and everyone did that.
She could already tell by the number of pale faces that many were already thinking they were screwed. She looked at it and raised an eyebrow.
"Ummm...this feels... just like my medical exam in college." Arisa thought as she picked up her quill.
"You may now begin. May the goddess give all good luck." Seteth said as he and Tomas sat down while Beleth and Catherine walked around, checking everyone.
Arisa was silent as she answered the questions with ease, but she never let herself get cocky because that always brought some sort of doom. 30 minutes turned to 1 hour, and she closed her book and stood up, walked to the front desk. Everyone stared at in shock while Tomas chuckled and Seteth raised an eyebrow as she placed the test in front of them, with her name written on it.
"The last time I saw someone finished first was Emily many years ago." Tomas chuckled and Arisa gave a polite bow.
"Very well then. We will inform you in a day if you passed or not. Good luck and dismissed." Seteth said and she nodded.
She turned to walk to the door, still feeling eyes on her. Once out the door, she closed it, and let her herself fall on her knees.
"Whoa, are you okay!?" One of the priestesses quickly ran to her and a knight helped her with Arisa.
No wonder Seteth also had medical staff outside. The knight and priestess helped Arisa up and had her sit down on a bench.
"Here you go." The knight said as he handed her a mug of water, which Arisa gulped down fast.
"Careful girl. Jeez...I know this happens every year but damn...it hurts more seeing a kid go through that." The knight said.
"Even worse since Seteth's presence intimidates everyone. Sigh...good luck kid." The priestess said and gave the girl an apple to eat.
Arisa let go of a sigh and thanked them. The exam was easy, but it was the stares of Catherine and Seteth that were much scarier than the exam. She felt like she was a mouse about to be eaten by a Lion and Dragon. The girl sighed once more she waited for the next two hours, because she wanted to see how that nice lady was doing along with 60-year-old man, plus the mercenary. When the hours were over, the door opened and out came pouring people shaking, crying, one fainted, and she quickly just barely caught the lady and old man she spoke to earlier. Her fellow mercenary was getting carried by Beleth, the woman was passed out cold.
"Someone help out, please!" Arisa yelled out and two knights quickly came to help her.
They set down the two on the benches and Arisa was helping hand out water and food to people. Seteth, Catherine, and Tomas blinked multiple times as they saw the young girl running around, helping her fellow doctors but also the medical staff.
"I thought she went home." Catherine said as she crossed her arms and snickered a bit as the girl nearly tripped carrying water to people.
"Whhhhaaa! Wake up!" Arisa screeched and quickly put some alcohol in on a napkin, and just gently wafting it over one of the men's nose.
Seteth raised an eyebrow as he saw the man react, and slowly waking up.
"I never seen that method before." Tomas commented as she he studied the girl doing the same to several other people, even using healing magic a couple of times.
"Hmmmm..." Seteth said as he saw his medical staff thanking the girl for helping them and she just shook her hands frantically, she couldn't just leave behind her fellow doctors, "We'll see the exam results later today." He said and the three walked off, and Beleth quickly followed them.
"You are the ocean's gray waves! Ahhhhahhhhaaaaahhh~"
Instantly, all four of them turned to see the all the medical examiners glowing green, the tension on their shoulders slowly going away. Many were beginning to relax and turned to see the young girl singing, droplets of water had stopped in midair.
"Aaahhhh ~ Ahhhh ~ " Arisa sung beautiful and Sothis had a smug smirk as many had finally calmed down.
"Such a soothing voice..." Her fellow mercenary muttered softly and pouted when the girl had stopped singing.
Here she was, trying to avoid attention but she can't just leave people in such chaotic states. She never live it down! The girl dropped her hands and let go of a sigh.
"Everyone okay?" She muttered and everyone nodded, "Thank the goddess..." she said and let go of another sigh.
After that whole ordeal, the girl went to the stables to visit Red Hare. She needed a break.
[ - ]
"¿Quién es mi pegaso y búho más hermoso y encantador del mundo?" Arisa cooed in Spanish as she hugged Red Hare's head gently and Feh was nuzzling her cheek.
The girl could finally relax as she is with her friends. The tension had finally come off her as she hugged her friends. Sothis smiled as she looked around, many of the male horses were looking at Red Hare jealous because the female ones were wooing over him. Plus, he was twice the male horses' size. A few kinshi, wyverns and griffons in the next-door stables just shook their heads but were also impressed to see the Red Pegasus have a worthy master. Arisa had closed her eyes, taking shallow breaths to relax a bit, only listening to the sound of the animals in the stables. Her eyes opened a bit as she heard footsteps approaching the stables and looked to the door.
"Oh. I thought you went home already kid." It was Catherine.
The older woman blinked multiple times as she saw the huge red brown stallion and the snowy owl on the girl's shoulder.
"Is she from The Kingdom...?" Catherine thought and heard Arisa speak.
"I wanted to spend some time with my friends before I head to the inn I'm staying at." Arisa said as she gently let go of Red Hare.
"Wait, inn? Kid, are you here alone?" Catherine said.
"Yes. I just started my coming of age journey." Arisa smiled and stretched out her hand, "Names Kina Kalsana. I saw you with the advisor and green haired knight at the exams." Arisa said and Catherine chuckled as she shook hands with her.
"Names Cassandra but I usually go by Catherine. Good to see someone so young traveling. Also heard you're a mercenary. Say, quick question." She said and Arisa cocked her head a bit confused, "Have you heard of the legendary trio? The Ice Spirit, The Thunder Hammer and The Ashen Demon? The other name given to the Ashen Demon is Angel of Death because she says a prayer before she takes down her opponents." Catherine said and Arisa blink.
"Were called those names...?! What the hell?" Sothis said and Arisa shook her head.
"I have heard of them but never met them. I have worked with Captain Jeralt before but that's about it." Arisa said.
"Damn. I was hoping I could hear something about them. I love to spar with them one day." Catherine said.
"And she doesn't know she's talking to one right now." Sothis giggled and Red Hare whacked her with his tail.
Arisa had to keep herself from giggling seeing that.
"Say, since you took the exam, care to join me for a drink? My treat. But umm...you are 15 years old right? Just asking to make sure because legal age to drink is 15." Catherine said and Arisa nodded.
"Great! Maybe we could chat more and get to know each other!" She said and Arisa smiled.
The rest of the day was spent with Catherine talking, getting to know one another and maybe a couple of drinks. Thankfully Arisa had her high alcohol tolerance. Later joining them at the bar, were a couple of the other doctors. They went a bit crazy but still, it had been a while since Arisa enjoyed hanging out with adults like this. She may have hit on a few men and women, its fun seeing them flustered.
- Late At night: Monastery -
Seteth groans as he carried the fourth pile of test into the magic test scanner and let's go of a sigh as it beeped and turned red, meaning no one passed. This whole week has been nothing but exams and no one was passing.
"Looks like this year we might not have anyone pass...again." Beleth commented as he was busy sealing the letters that will be going to the examiners to inform them, they did not pass.
"This is the final pile. Might as well give up hope at this point." Seteth said as he carried it to the scanner once more.
Each book flipped through one by one, each one beeps, meaning they did not pass. Seteth pinched the bridge of his nose, he was tried and then...
"Ding! Passing."
Instantly the two looked up, shocked, seeing the light green and one book still floating. Their jaws dropped and Beleth nearly accidentally spilled the ink bottle. Seteth picked up the passing book and saw the name.
"Kiana Kalsana. Age 15. She's currently staying at an inn in town." He said.
"Wait, isn't that the girl that was singing earlier this morning?" Beleth said.
"The one Catherine said has a Crest. Hmm...well for now," Seteth could not help but smile warmly, "We must inform your Lady Rhea! It has been 15 years since we've had new Holy Magus!" He said but saw Beleth with his hands in a praying position, taking deep breaths.
"What's wrong?" The older man asked.
"Seteth...this is Doctor Snowden all over again." Beleth said that's when it finally hit Seteth.
"By the goddess...shit." it was extremely rare for the Advisor of the Church of Serios, to curse.
Battle of offers 2.0 is on the way.
[-]
"I see." Her smile was kind and warm, yet it did not reach her eyes, "I am happy to hear the birth of a new Holy Magus. I'm sure it was by the Goddess's will that this year will be of new surprises." Rhea said as she stood in her office, both Seteth and her son brought the news, but she could see them distressed.
"Is something wrong?" She asked and her son spoke.
"Mother...it's Doctor Snowden all over again! The one that passed is a 15-year-old girl, also known as the savior of Galatea Territory, Kiana Kalsana! The number of nobles that will coming to the Kingdom to win her favor...!" Beleth said and Rhea slightly shook her hand.
"Calm down Beleth. I understand how you feel but this was the girl's choice. Seteth, make sure to prepare the receiving certification ceremony along with the card. Like always, I personally will give the card to the new Holy Magus, and she will also say who she is allied to when she places a drop of her blood in the Holy Spring." Rhea said.
The door to her office opened and in came Lucius.
"Lady Rhea, you summon me?" The young man said.
"Thank you, Lucius. Tomorrow morning, I want you to deliver the news to our new Holy Magus. Beleth will give the address she is staying at along with the letter." She said and Lucius nodded.
[-]
"I see...so she passed." In his room in the monastery, Lucius spoke to a crystal ball, where a voice was coming out of it.
"That's right Lady Emily. Tomorrow I deliver the letter and the ceremony is to take place later that day. I shall prepare the warping system to have her safely warped to the Kingdom." He said and the Emily hummed.
"Thank you. Make sure to inform her you're with me. It has been 5 years since I have spoken to her. That is all." Emily said.
- The Next Day -
Knock, knock.
Arisa groans as she got out of her bed and wobbled to the door. She had a bit too much fun last night and now she was having her first hangover in years. She grabbed her cloak and put it on over her nightgown, opened the door. Slammed it shut once she saw another familiar face.
"Ummmm...Lady Kiana?" The feminine male voice spoke a bit confused at the girl's actions and the door opened again, this time she didn't slam it shut like before.
"Sorry...just...a bit tired. Can I help you?" It was Lucius, from The Blazing Blade series.
Well, maybe not exactly him but his counterpart of this world. The man chuckled a bit nervously and spoke.
"I bring a letter from the Church of Serios. Also..." he leaned in and whispered, "Lady Emily has been informed. Meet me later tonight at the forest near the stables. No one is there and the guards usually aren't in that area." He said and her eyes went wide as he handed her the letter.
Arisa was completely sober now and nodded.
"Thank you." She said and he excused himself.
The girl closed the door as she stared at the letter, Sothis appearing, groaning.
"You could at least have stopped drinking at the fourth mug of wine! Thanks to us being one, I can feel these "hangovers" of yours!" Sothis grumbled as she finally noticed Arisa looking at the fancy gold letter with the wax seal of Serios.
Arisa opened it and read its contents.
Congratulations, Miss Kiana Kalsana.
I bring you good news. You have passed the Holy Magus exam with a score of 100. It had been 15 years since a new Holy Magus was born. Do come dressed appropriately during the mid-day. You will be given your official Holy Magus Card with the seal of the Church of Serios. It has brought me great joy to be awarding you this. May the goddess shine fortune on your future and protect you.
- Archbishop Rhea
"BREATH, BREATH, BREATH, BREATH!" Sothis began screaming to poor Arisa, whose heart rate escalated a milestone and the girl had dropped the letter in shock.
Arisa passed out there on the floor, from both shock, horror, and utter joy.
- Hours Later: Midday-
Dressed in the nice yet simple blue summer dress with her blue cloak, Arisa walked behind Catherine, who was laughing.
"Goodness, it's been ages since I had so much fun! For just barely 15 years old, you have a high alcohol tolerance! Kid, also that "margarita?" you made is was divine! After this, I was wondering if you could...make again? Also, my treat as a congratulations for passing!" Catherine grinned as the two made their way to the Cathedral.
The girl stopped for a moment, looking out the lake from the bridge. She smiled softly as she saw a couple of fish swimming then continued.
Inside the Cathedral was the typical grand Holy Church, but today it was decorated with strings, ribbons, and banners of the Church of Serios to celebrate the birth of a New Holy Magus. Catherine quickly excused herself as she made her way towards Lady Rhea to stand next to her. The grand carpet was neatly cleaned for she to walk. She took a deep breath as she began to walk, choirs singing the Holy Songs. The very end where the statue is, Rhea stood there with all her glory. On her right, was Seteth and Catherine, on her left, was Beleth and Flayn. They wore the uniform of the Church of Serios. Arisa could feel her heart beating rapidly and waves of emotions feeling her mind. 1 minute later, she stood before Rhea, her presence was graceful and pleasant, yet Arisa could see that her smile never reached her eyes. Out of instinct and respect, Arisa did a Japanese bow to her Grace.
"It is an honor to meet you Lady Rhea." Arisa spoke careful.
Ever so slightly Rhea's eyes squinted, and her smile grew a bit, the Archbishop nodded in approval.
"Raise your head child. For the goddess has guided you to this path. It is an honor to meet the newest Holy Magus. I'm sure it was by the goddess's will that brought you here." Rhea's voice smooth and silky, gentle and kind, filled with grace, yet her presence held authority. Flayn stepped forward with a silk gold pillow held by her hands, on it, was wooden box engraved with the same artworks on the stain glass, Rhea gently picked it up and presented it to the girl.
"This is a gift from us of The Church of Serios as a reward for passing the exam. Inside this wooden box, is the official card and certificate with the seal of approval. Along with the reward of 500 gold coins. Kiana Kalsana, I hereby declare you, the 6th Holy Magus of Fodlan!" Rhea said and the priests and knights bowed to her.
Arisa gently was given the box and opened it. Indeed, inside was a certificate but also, a glass card with her name engraved with the official seal of the Church of Serios. Plus, a bag filled with gold. The seal itself, was made of pure gold.
"Now then," Seteth spoke as he and Catherine stepped from where they stood, revealing a Holy Grail filled with water, "this is the Holy Spring. Here, you will speak your words and declare who you are allied to, by placing a drop of your blood. This also shows if you have a Crest or not." He said and Arisa nodded as she walked forward and nipped the end of her thumb. She held it over the spring water and spoke her words as a droplet of blood fell.
"I, Kiana Kalsana, hereby swear to use this seal to help all those in need. Regardless if they are rich or poor, far and wide, no matter where they are from. I hereby declare, I am a freelance magus!" She said and everyone in the entire place looked her shocked while Rhea slightly raised her eyebrows.
The droplet of blood fell into the water, causing it to glow, the Crest of Serios projected itself, the water turning silver, showing her independence.
"Major Crest of Serios!" Beleth said and the girl turned to them as she healed her thumb.
"Oohhh! Congratulations!" Flayn clapped her hands, "what do you plan to do now?" She said and Arisa smiled.
"I'm going to see friend but after that, I'm heading to the Kingdom to enroll into the Magic Academy in Fhirdiad." Arisa said and Rhea nodded.
"A wise choice!" Catherine chuckled and spoke, "If it's alright with you, I'm heading to the Kingdom myself in a few days. I don't mind giving you a ride." Catherine said and Arisa shook her head.
"It's alright but thank you very much. I want to travel with my horse and explore my way there." She said and Catherine nodded in understanding.
"Well then," Rhea spoke, "I wish safe travels young Magus. May the goddess protect you." She smiled kindly and Arisa nodded.
She gave them all one final bow and left out the cathedral doors. There was a silence till Seteth spoke.
"She pulled a Florencio on us!" He said and Rhea chuckled a bit.
"A Florencio?" Beleth, Flayn and Catherine said, confused.
"It means she declared to be a freelance doctor, which is very rare." Rhea chuckled as the five begin to walk.
"We'll see how things turn out from now on."
[-]
"Pardon, I'm looking for Professor Hanneman's office. Could you help?" Arisa said to a knight and he nodded.
"Head down this way, near Lady Rhea's chambers then two to the left." The knight said and Arisa thanked him.
It was a bit of a walk, but she arrived in front of the wooden door that said, "Professor Hanneman". Right when she was about to knock, she could hear voices inside yet, also yelling. The door suddenly slammed open, making the girl back away in shock. A woman with short brown hair, light tan skin, red makeup with a mole under her right eye, and wore a dress that clearly showed her "front", she looked pissed.
"You dastard, you dare say I'm old!?" She yelled furiously back to the room and then turned back, blinking multiple times seeing the terrified girl clinging onto the wall like a spider.
"Oh! I am sorry you had to witness that dear!" It was Manuela.
"I...um...I think I came at the wrong time..." Arisa said as she finally let go of the wall and walked over to the older woman.
"Oh, no no! It's alright." Manuela said as she turned back and let her come in, "Hanneman, someone is here to see you!" She said and near the desk, the wall on the left with multiple papers nailed on, was Professor Hanneman.
The man turned and raised an eyebrow as he saw the girl.
"Are you a student here? Can I help you?" He said and Arisa nodded.
"Umm...can we close the door first?" Arisa said and Manuela did just that.
"And why are you still here?" Hanneman glared to Manuela who crossed her arms.
"I'm bored anyway, and the next semester doesn't start till next week. Might as well also get to know this cutie! Are you here to enroll in the academy? Oh, I'm Manuela Casagranda. I'm a professor, a physician, songstress and available. Nice to meet you." Manuela smiled to her kindly.
"Arisa Byleth Reus Eisner, also known as Kiana Kalsana. Just recently became a Holy Magus 10 minutes ago." Arisa and instantly Hanneman ran to her.
"Wait, are you really Arisa?!" He said and the girl glowed a faint blue, taking everyone by surprise, revealing her true appearance.
"Professor Hanneman! It's been five years!" The girl grinned to him and hugged him.
"Hahah!" The man laughed as he hugged her back and then let go, "It has! Look at you! You've grown so much! How has your Crest research been doing? More importantly, have you been taking care of that camera I gifted you?" He said and the girl nodded as she took it out.
"Of course, I have! I still have package left of film. I also created a photo album!" She said excitedly.
While the two talked excitedly, Manuela was zeroing in on the words "Holy Magus" and the name "Kiana Kalsana". Before Arisa knew it, she was suddenly turned around and Manuela was in her face, holding her shoulders.
"Did you just say you're a Holy Magus and The Kiana Kalsana?! Oh, so young! Ahhhh! Kids these days are advancing at a fast pace! It hurts!" Manuela said tearfully and Hanneman groans.
"Ummm..." Arisa said a bit nervously and Manuela let her go.
"Oh umm...sorry I apologize. Professor Hanneman has spoken of you a bit but I'm happy to finally meet his star pupil. Do you prefer to go by Arisa or Kiana?" The older woman said.
"Please call me Kiana. I'm going by a different identity for my safety." Arisa said as she made her appearance change to the one, she had, "Also, please don't tell one about...me being able to change my appearance." She said.
"No worries. I can tell by the way your tone of worry was. Your secret is safe with me. Unfortunately, I wish I could stay longer but I have an important date to go to." Manuela said and patted her head.
"Good luck! I hope you can find your soulmate!" Arisa said.
"Aaaahhhhhh! Thank you!" Manuela wept as she hugged her to her chest, the poor girl turning scarlet, "Someone who understands my pain unlike some old coon I know!" She sent a glare at Hanneman.
After another argument between the two adults, Manuela said goodbye and left.
"I am very sorry about that. This month just became her first anniversary coming her to teach at the academy. I swear that woman. Come now and have a seat. Thankfully the tea I prepared earlier is still hot. Let us celebrate you becoming a Holy Magus!" Hanneman smiled as Arisa sat across from him at the tea table.
"It's alright. I think her and I will get along well." She smiled and looked around his office.
Bookshelves with books of Crestology, the device at the center that displays Crest, a...
"Is that a printer?" Arisa said as she was looking over to a magic tool.
It had a wooden table surface, wooden hand that can grab onto the quill and write.
"Actually, I haven't even thought of a name for it yet! I like the one you just gave it now. So, it'll be called a printer from now on." Hanneman chuckled.
"I'm surprised you knew what it is. One a few selected have this device. It's used to send messages around Fodlan. Of course, the only ones that own these are me, the Church of Serios, House Reigan, The Royal family of Faerghus and The Adrestian royal family." He said and she nodded, "But enough of that. How have you been?" He asked and she let go of a sigh.
"I have...good news and bad news regarding my research." She said and he looked at her worried, "Good news, I found information regarding the implementation of Crest." she said, and he put down his teacup slowly, "The bad news, the horrific results." She said and took out her tablet but not before using a spell to make sure the door was locked, and the room was sound proofed.
"I never seen such device." He muttered and she turned to look at the printer.
"May I use it?" She said and he nodded.
The girl stood up and walked to the printer, turned on her tablet, and went to the document app, and opened a specific file. Next, she sent a bit of her magic to the printer, making it activate and linked it to her tablet. She went to the settings and clicked print. The printer's wooden hand began to move and write down the 4-page document. Professor Hanneman stood up and picked up the first paper that was finished and began to read it while the printer finished the rest. His eyes narrowed, he frowned at what he was reading and picked up the next paper.
Conclusion: Survival rate of Crest Implementation: 0.05%
Results:
Test subject 123: Deceased: Cause: Descend to madness
Test subject 127: Deceased: Cause: Died during Implementation
Test subject 140: Deceased: Cause: Turned to Demonic Beast
Test subject 170: Success: Name: Gregory von Essar: Implementation of Crest of Indech and Cichol
Test Subject 190: Success: Name Lysithea von Ordelia: Implementation of Crest of Charon and Gloucester
Results of Successful test subjects: Failure: Loss in pigment of hair and eyes, life span drastically shorten.
The man slowly put the paper down as he looked over to the girl, who had turned off the tablet.
"Where did you get this information?" He said dryly and Arisa spoke honestly.
"7 years ago, during the fire of the Tailtean Plains. Barely 4 days ago, I was able to decode it. Professor Hanneman...these...are results of people that have been horrifically have been experimented on. Whoever was the original owner of this information, was one of the ones doing these horrific things." She said as she helped the man sit back down before he fainted on her.
Hanneman was silent as he looked back at the document.
"My nephew...I'll never forgive them for what they have done to him...or any of these people." The man said and Arisa nodded.
"But, if I'm also sure your research can help us find a way to remove Crest." Arisa said and he looked up to her, "So far, the spell I developed can surpass at least one of the Crest but at the cost of my own life span. That's why I have two streaks of white hair." She said and he nodded.
"I'm not happy reading this but... this result, like you said, I'm sure my research holds the key to removing them. Arisa, I trust you not to say one word of the information you managed to get a hold of." He said.
"I know." She said as she crossed her arms and glares to the floor, "I don't need another target on my back." She said.
After that, the two spoke for the next hours till it was getting late. She told him of everything that went down these past five years and showed him the photo album she made. Hanneman could not help but chuckle as he saw a picture of his nephew who was held in a choke hold by Fiona. The said boy, at the Alliance, sneezed.
- Late at Night -
With her belongings packed and using a shirking spell to turn Red Hare to the size of the cat. The poor pegasus felt humiliated being carried around like a cat and Feh told him to suck it up. Sothis was cackling as she saw the prideful animal as Arisa made her way through the dark woods, using her concealing cloak. Her eyes glowed a blue color as she kept walking and finally arrived at the place. Lucius nodded as he spotted her.
"You made it. The warping system is ready. You'll be dropped off in the woods near Fhirdiad but I'm afraid your appearance spell will come undone." He said and she nodded.
"It's alright. Since it's deep in the woods, no one will find me." She said and he nodded.
"Step here on this tile." He motioned her to step on a role that had the Crest of Gautier on it, "This will be your first time traveling such a long distance. Umm...side effects are nauseous and passing out." He said and she let go of a long sigh.
"Pray for me." Arisa said as she stepped on the tile and gulped as it began to glow red and even Feh and Red Hare were nervous.
"Lady Arisa, good luck. May Saint Cethleann protect you." He said and she nodded.
He closed his eyes and mutter ancient spell; Arisa felt the world spinning as a red light blinded her.
Away to the Kingdom she was warped.
- The Next Day -
"Come on your highness, you'll be left behind if you don't hurry up!" With a sword in his hand, the young boy yelled excitedly as he walked through the woods.
He had spiky orange red colored hair and the same colored eyes, he wore a black winter coat with orange shirt and brown pants with boots.
"Come on Sylvain! We're not even supposed to be here in the woods." A young boy with blonde locks of hair in a maiden haircut, dressed in blue winter clothing but held a wooden lance in his hands, said nervously as he looked over to the other two older boys that were with them, and then to the youngest of the group, who was just 11 years old.
The 11-year-old was thinking this was a horrible idea and why he was dragged here in the first place. Oh right, it is the duty to make sure his Lord is not hurt or else he would fail as a butler.
"Hey, Felix got us covered." A 17-year-old boy with brown hair in a ponytail with his bangs covering his left eye, only showing his purple right one, said as he had brass knuckles on, just in case.
He wore a black trench coat with hunting black pants, on his waist, was strapped an axe.
"Well, only because my dad is out training. I still think we should have brought Ingrid." A young boy with black hair in a ponytail, wearing winter clothing of blue and brown said as he too held a sword.
"Felix, I said no. No way am I bringing her here." Another 17-year-old boy who looked like the much older version of the one that spoke said as he held his own sword.
"Lord Felix, Lord Sylvain, Lord Glenn, Lord Chris, Your Highness Dimitri, I really do think we should go back to the city!" The 11-year-old boy with light blue spiky yet shoulder length hair said as he held his staff closely to his chest. He wore the clothing of a Male mage but also wore a blue cloak.
"Don't worry Dwyer." Chris said as he showed he was wearing brass knuckles, "If someone tries to attack us, Glenn and I will fight them off. Why do you think boys are afraid to get near my little sister?" Chris laughed proudly.
Dwyer knew Lady Edelgard would be fuming if she found out it was her brother scaring away the children. The 6 young boys, with the sudden bravery to explore and hunt in the woods...it was suddenly turning to a bad idea as they heard rustling. They all instantly froze. The three oldest, Sylvain, Glenn and Chris, quickly circled around the young ones to protect them. The silence of the woods only made it even more unnerving. They all turned to a bush that was rustling. Then...
"CHIIRRPP!"
SNAP!
"AAAAAHHHHHHH!" The six boys screamed but waved of embarrassments filled them once they saw it was just a snowy owl that swooped out of the bush.
"It's just an owl...sigh..." Dimitri sighs but groans as he saw he snapped his lance in half again and poor Dwyer looked ready to cry.
"What the?" Glenn said as he saw both Sylvain and Felix were hugging each other in fear.
"This is a bad idea! Curse you Sylvain!" Felix cried out and they all turned as they saw the snowy owl looking at them, judging.
"Hey little fellow, you lost?" Chris said and everyone blinked as the owl flew to land on his arm.
"Hey Dimitri, does this owl belong to one of the knights here?" Glenn said as the snowy owl let itself be touched.
"I do not know. Is there a tag with the symbol of Faerghus on it?" Dimitri said and Chris looked at its feet.
"No tag. I want to say it's wild, but it's clearly trained." Chris said as Glenn walked to him.
"Maybe it belongs to one of the citizens here?" Glenn said.
"I doubt that. Maybe it belongs to one of the students in the magic academy?" Sylvain said and backed away when the owl hissed at him.
The others laughed a bit till they heard something.
"Hmmmm...zzzzz..."
"Shh! Do you guys hear that?" Dimitri suddenly said and before any of them could react, the snowy owl chirped happily, flapping its wings, and took off.
"Follow it!" Glenn said and they all ran after it.
It felt like a maze they were running through till they reached a lake area. The owl landed on someone and they all ran to them.
"Whooooaaa..." Chris said as the others gasped seeing what he was.
A young girl was lying on the grass, her brown hair that faded to teal was let loose, yet it spilled nicely on the grass. She wore a black robe with a black cloak, gray colored pants and they saw a bow was next to her. Her left arm was over her stomach and her right arm stretched out. They saw her bag was next to her, and the snowy owl was now hissing at them, as it was trying to protect her. Dimitri stared at the girl who looked to be sleeping peacefully, and noticed she had green eyelashes. He felt his face heating up, yet she looked familiar. They heard a small neigh and saw a miniature horse, who got on her stomach and glared at them.
"Well...um..." Chris said as everyone stared at the sleeping beauty.
"Glenn," Dimitri suddenly spoke, "we have to do something!" The price said worried.
"What do you propose we do? I don't want to risk getting punched like Ingrid does to Sylvian." Glenn said and Sylvian glared.
"I..um...guhh...I don't know!" Dimitri said and they all turned once they saw the girl reacting a bit.
"Hmm...hmmm..." her eyelashes fluttered open slowly and she looked around, revealing her brown colored eyes that faded to green, everyone looking at her worried but also relieved.
"I see you're awake now." Chris smiled as the girl looked at them one by one.
"Hey there!" Sylvian grinned as she groans a bit as she sat up.
"There are better places to take a nap then on the ground you know." Glenn said as he crossed his arms, yet Dimitri walked up as he stretched out his hand.
"Are you alright?" The boy asked and the girl nodded a bit dazed.
"I'm..." she took his hand, and he blushed at how warm it felt, and helped her get up.
"Urrghhh!" The girl suddenly slapped her hand over her mouth and ran behind a bush, falling to her knees, everyone looked at her worried.
"Uurrrghhhhhhhh!" They heard her vomiting and Dwyer quickly ran towards her.
"Breath, deep breaths." He said as he lightly patted her back and reached into his pocket to pull out the stomach medicine, he always carried with him.
"Is she alright?!" Sylvian yelled out as they heard the girl still vomiting, also looking pale.
"Glenn, we may have to carry her if she's injured or sick. Thankfully Emily's clinic is nearby." Chris said and his friend nodded.
"Cough! Cough!" The girl coughed then spit and used the sleeve of her coat to wipe her mouth.
She looked to her side and saw a young boy, and noticed him holding out something to her, she recognized it, it was stomach medicine.
"Thank you..." she smiled a bit weakly and took the pills from him and gulped them down dry.
She and the boy turned back to the others, and she looked up to them, still wiping her mouth.
"I'm...sorry you had to witness that." Her face had turned a bit red as she and the boy walked towards them.
"It's alright." Felix said with a smile.
"But seriously, what are you doing out here? You just sleep out here in the woods! It's nearly Fall! Did you get lost?" Glenn said as he saw the girl reach into her pocket and pulls out a hair band.
It glowed a bit and everyone saw she used magic to put her hair in high ponytail with a green ribbon, the loose part of the ponytail was braided, stopping just below her waist line, her long bangs were let loose but her right one was braid with a blue ribbon. They also saw she had two streaks of white hair. She also wore two white Lily hair pins. The girl sighed as she stretched out her right arm, the snowy owl landed on it and began nuzzling her cheek, and the spell on the red horse was undone, returning him to his original size, but also revealing he was pegasus.
"Are...you a mage?" Dwyer said and Arisa was silent for a moment as she looked at each one.
She recognized the other 5 but who was the brown-haired boy?
"Thank you for helping me...I need to go now." She said softly and turned to walk away but froze the minute one named was called out to her.
"ARISA, DON'T GO!"
It was Dimitri that had called out to her and he quickly ran forward.
"It's you, isn't it?!" He smiled yet tears were falling from his eyes, "It's been so long! Lestia and I are happy! Are you here to sign up to become a knight?!" Dimitri said and everyone looked at them shocked.
"Wait...as in Arisa? Daughter of Jeralt the Blade Breaker and the one that saved your life 11 years ago from that Assassin?!" Sylvian yelled out in shock.
Glenn was silent and the girl just stood still as she felt everyone's eyes on her. But...
"RED HARE! FEH!" She suddenly yelled out and mounted the pegasus quickly and Feh flew high up.
"HEY WAIT!" Felix yelled out and they all ran towards her, but Red Hare's wings power flaps created wind that knocked them off their feet.
Sylvain gritted his teeth and quickly muttered a spell, hoping to at least scare the animal.
"Gale!" He yelled and sent it towards them.
"No, you idiot!" Dwyer yelled out but too late.
Red Hare neighed loudly as he flew up, just barely dodging that attack.
Arisa looked down at them silently as she let go of a sigh but spoke.
"It's good to see you again Dimitri...Sylvain... Glenn...Felix..." was all she said and flew off.
There was complete silence as everyone stood up yet looked over to Dimitri, worried.
"She's...just like how I remembered..." the boy muttered and laughed a bit.
"Umm...Dimitri? Are you alright?" Chris said as he helped the boy up.
"Yeah, I'm alright. I guess it's been such a long time since we have seen each other, the meeting was overwhelming for her." The prince said and saw Sylvian smirking at him.
"What?" Dimitri said, confused.
"Your Highness has a crush on a mercenary beauty! Oh my!" The redhead said and the boy had turned the same color as the Empire, "Plus, she's only 2 years older than you but a year older than me. So, your Highness...planning to court already?" Sylvian teased while the prince pouted, his face scarlet as he looked down to the ground.
"BE FREE OF YOUR SINFUL THOUGHTS!" Dwyer yelled and smacked Sylvian with his staff.
"Owww!" The red head screeched, and the others laughed.
"Well, don't be disappointed Dimitri." Chris said and the others looked at him confused, "I saw the direction the pegasus flew. They're headed to the city. We might run into her at some point. For now, let's head back. I don't want to face my sister's wrath." Chris said and everyone cringed.
Edelgard's wrath is the one thing one wishes to suffer.
- Fhirdiad-
The bustling cities of old and new, yet it almost had a magical twist. Buildings of blue and white were all around. Plus, with the magic school there, it was common to see many Magus but also people floating, using magic to get around. Arisa felt she was almost walking through a city in ancient Camelot. She could see the grand castle of The Holy Kingdom of Faerghus. Silver and bronze the color it was, huge most of all. It reminded her a bit of a British Castle. She saw knights walking around, the proud flag of the Lion hung. The blue sky matched the place and has turned back to her disguise and Sothis was scolding her. Way to ruin the moment.
"What was that?!" The goddess yelled to the girl as Arisa sighed and carefully walked next to Red Hare, holding his reins and Feh was perched on her head, "It has been 11 years since you have seen those children and that was your first reaction?! Running away from them like a coward?!" Sothis said and Feh gave her a look that literally said, "shut up."
"Sothis..." Arisa mentally responded to her, "I know. I just did not think I would run into them and most of all, Dimitri remembering me." She was completely taken aback that she nearly fainted again right there when Dimitri called out her name.
"You felt how my heart rate accelerated! You wanted me to pass out right there and then us being carried for the palace!?" Arisa said back.
"Sigh...point, point." Sothis grumbled as they came to a series of signs.
"Magic Academy that way." The goddess pointed to the east direction and down they went, also known as The Magic District.
As they walked through, Arisa felt she was walking through Diagon Alley from Harry Potter. Men and women dressed in the uniforms of the Magic Academy. Vendors selling ingredients for potions and spells. She spotted a grimoire stand and staffs and wands being sold at one store. There was a candy shop also and saw a couple of fae flying around. She giggled when she saw an aerial fly away with a donut and the vendor lady was cursing at it.
"Whoooaa! Look at the huge pegasus!"
Red Hare suddenly stood proudly as children began to gather around them, amazed by how big he was. Many petted him since they are respected in Faerghus.
"Are you a knight?" A little girl asked Arisa while many gasped in amazement as the said pegasus unfolded his wings.
"No, I'm a Magus actually. That's Red Hare. He's a bit of a showoff but he's softly." She said and the girl giggled as Red Hare nuzzled her cheek.
"Are you here for the entrance exams?!" One of vendors yelled out, "Lass, you better hurry! You have 10 minutes!" They yelled out and instantly Arisa ran to Red Hare and mounted him.
Everyone backed away as the Pegasus rose on his two back legs, looking majestic as heck.
"HYAAA!" Arisa said and the three bolted like rockets towards the magic academy.
"HOLY SERIOS! I NEVER SEEN A PEGASUS MOVE THAT FAST!" One of the boys yelled out.
[-]
They barely made it at the 2-minute mark at the gates, unfortunately scaring to Magus guards.
"I'm here for the entrance exams! Which line?!" Arisa yelled out and the female magus rapidly nodded her head and pointed to a building with a yellow door.
"That one! Just go! We'll take your pegasus and owl to the stables!" The lady said and Arisa jumped off, bolting to the building before they closed the door.
"You idiot!" The female Magus's male friend yelled, "That's the building to take the exam to become a Professor! It's the next building that has the green door is where the entrance exam is!" He yelled.
"Aaahhhhh!" The woman screeched horrified and about to run to building to stop the girl but too late.
The yellow doors closed, and the female Magus was a crying mess for making that mistake.
"Lady Cornelia will have my head!" She wept.
- 2 hours later -
It was the same process all over again just like when she took the exam at the Church but this time, all they did was say to open their books, and good luck. No whole introduction of what exam they are taking and such. Arisa let go of a sigh as she was now at the stables of the Magic Academy. It felt like the church all over again because she literally ran around helping the medical staff again. She remembered a particular question in the exam that made her raised an eyebrow.
"Any new subject suggestions that could be taught this semester?"
She easily wrote down Astronomy and Medical Classes. Putting a mini note next to Astronomy that explains it was the study of the celestial stars and cosmos. Thankfully before she made her way to the academy, she paid for the inn she will be staying at. She took Red Hare out of the stables and began to walk out the school grounds. To Diago-I mean, to The Magic District she returns!
[- ]
Chris let go of a sigh as he saw his friends all having to wear their cloaks to hide their identity. Except him and Dwyer of course because no one knows who they are. Dimitri pouted as he walked between Felix and Sylvian. He really wished he didn't have to hide his identity to be able to walk through here, but he didn't want a bunch of attention to him either.
"I think we might run into Annette here. She said she needed to buy supplies for the next semester." Sylvian said as they walked.
Chris was silent as the image of the forest colored hair girl came back to his mind. Dimitri called her Arisa, yet for some reason, her felt that shouldn't be her name. The name "Byleth" came to his mind when he saw her, yet he thought she shouldn't be looking that way. Hers should be blue and hair teal. He shook his head again. There it was again...that feeling emptiness. When he heard the name "Arisa", something inside him hurt yet the name felt warm. He didn't know why. But he needs to see her again. It's a must.
"You know," Glenn spoke, making him snap out of his thoughts, "I thought you or Sylvian would hit on her." He said to Chris.
"Glenn you hurt me!" Sylvian said, dramatically putting his hand over his heart, the kids rolling their eyes, "But seriously, I couldn't bring myself to do it. It felt...wrong if I hit on her." Sylvian said and Chris nodded.
"Same. It felt wrong." Chris said as the two continued to walk but stopped when they noticed the other four frozen.
"D-Did we just hear that right?" Felix said as he looked to Dimitri and Dwyer, their mouths hanging in shock.
Glenn was looking at them as they grew a second head each.
"Come on man! You have known me for what? 4 years now. Sylvian for life and think we're some kind of lechers?!" Chris said and the four nodded.
"Rubbish! I'm hurt!" The two boys yelled.
The others laughed and out of the corner of Chris's eye, he spotted a familiar forest color among the crowd. He turned to see far deep in the crowd, the girl walking but when she passed by a woman, instead of Arisa, a different girl passed by. Chris face became blank. He knew that was spell to change one's appearance.
"Hey Chris, you alright?" Sylvian said and Chris nodded.
"Yeah. Well, I got to head back to my uncle's house. My sister did come visit us after all. I don't want to suffer her wrath." Chris laughed.
"Umm...send my salutations to her!" Dimitri said since the girl had yet to actually go see the prince, much to the prince's dismay.
"Don't worry I will." Chris said and began to leave.
In truth, he was going to see if he could find some information regarding Jeralt the Blade Breaker and his daughter. To the bar he goes! And hopefully to not get wasted...again.
- The Next Day -
Dear Miss Kiana Kalsana,
We of The Magic Academy, congratulate you for passing the exam. You are the second person to have ever scored a perfect 100. Because of this, you officially are qualified to be sponsored and have been accepted to the academy. Your test results have been displayed along with your name only to the nobility. If they are interested, they will write a letter to claim you under their name. Please come tomorrow morning to the Fhirdiad Magic Academy to be escorted to the palace where the event will take place.
- Directors of the Magic Academy: Cornelia von Aubin and Emily von Miller Zoltras
Arisa let go a sigh of relief as she read the letter but a frown seeing Cornelia claim the Aubin house name when it should be Alexandra. She was happy at least to know Emily was there for safety measures. She made huge mental note not to accept Cornelia's sponsorship, no matter how good the deal is.
"So," Sothis appeared as she saw the letter also came with the list of supplies Arisa needed to buy, " you have this day off then. What do you plan to do?" Sothis said.
"Well, other than buying the materials I need, I think I'm going to the hot spring here. I'm surprised it's Japanese style." Arisa smiled.
"A public bath!?" Sothis turned scarlet.
"Be grateful it isn't a mixed bath." Arisa said as her pajamas turned to gold dust and were replaced with her usual clothing and changed her appearance.
"To Diagon Alley we go!" She said a bit too cheerfully and Sothis rolled her eyes.
"It's called Magic District." Sothis corrected her.
"Yeah I know but I just rather call it Diagon Alley because it's easier to remember." The girl said back and Sothis let go of a long sigh.
[-]
"Damn, I overdid it on the drinks." Chris cursed as he walked through the Magic District early in the morning.
He got a huge yelling from his uncle and look of disappointment from both Edelgard and Hubert. Ahhh... he missed when his sister would run up to him and call him "Big brother!" And would laugh when he would spin her around. Or when she would sneak into his room so he would read to her and then she falls asleep on his bed. Or when she would ask him to brush her hair. Now she won't even let her touch him. It's been a year since he had last seen her since he was living here in Fhirdiad with his mother and stepfather, King Lambert. Not also mention his three step siblings, Dimitri, Zander and Lestia. King Lambert was a nice man and he really got along well with him. Dimitri loved training with him and Lestia love it when her showed her how to sew. He got along well with Zander, and the two felt like lost brothers, much to the dismay of King Lambert because the boys were flirts like his younger brother, Rufus. At least one helped control the other.
"El...what changed?" He muttered to himself.
He remembers when he asked her how their siblings are doing, and she said she didn't want to talk about it. Was she and her siblings not on good terms? Did something happen during the end of The Insurrection of The Seven that caused a rift between her and their siblings? And Hubert would instantly glare at him if he even dared to ask even more questions. How can one-year cause so much change? His uncle was no help either. He sighed as he walked up to coffee vendor.
"One Gloucester coffee with three pumps of soymilk please." The boy said.
"Overdid it on the drinks again Lord Chris?! Seriously?!" The vendor said as he was preparing the drink.
"He's having sister problems again. Siscon." The vendor's a 14-year-old daughter, said.
"Can it." He groans and heard footsteps approaching.
Probably another customer.
"Excuse me, may I order a green tea warm milk drink please? Sweeten with honey if it is alright?" A female voice spoke, and he noticed the vendor's daughter turn red.
Before the vendor could reply, his daughter spoke.
"Honey, I'll prepare it for you! Any food you want with it?! No extra charge!" The vendor's daughter said a bit too loudly, that it hurt his head.
Chris turned to the owner of the voice and froze.
"Well...seems the goddess is smiling down upon me today." He was completely sober now and turned to the vendor's daughter, "Yishi! I'll pay for her drink." He said.
"Awww hell no! I'm not letting you take this one from me!" Yishi glared and turned to see the brown eyes worried.
The girl had short black hair, brown colored eyes and wore the same clothing from yesterday, but a clean set. But he knew it wasn't her real face.
"Ummm...there is no need to pay for my drink." The girl said and Chris smiled to her as he placed his hand on her shoulder.
"No worries Arisa, I'm paying." He said and his hand slightly sent a wave of his magic to her, undoing her spell right then and there.
Arisa's eyes went wide, and she looked at herself, her appearance had turned back to its original. The vendor and his daughter were shocked at what they had just witnessed, and the said girl was looking at herself and then to the older boy, who smiled.
"WHO THE HELL YOU THINK YOU ARE TO MESS WITH MY SPELL?! I WAS IN THE MIDDLE OF AN EXPERIMENT TESTING HOW LONG IT LASTED! IT TOOK 6 MONTHS TO PERFECT AND NOW I HAVE TO REDO IT AGAIN! THAT WAS HOMEWORK!" Arisa screeched angrily and the smile on Chris's face was wiped off clean.
"Nice going dastard!" Yishi said, "By her saying homework, meaning she's a student from the magic academy! You just messed up her assignment!" Yishi said but she had to admit, this Arisa was hot!
"Sweety, keep the drink for free! You," Yishi pointed to Chris, "you're paying double for your coffee!" She said.
"Oh, come on!" Chris said as the girl handed the green tea drink to Arisa, she sent a glare to Chris, but not before she kindly thanked the girl.
"Wait, hold up!" Chris said and grabbed his drink, slammed 10 copper coins in front of Yishi, and ran after Arisa.
She was pissed.
"How the fuck did he undo that spell?!" Arisa was cursing and kept trying to change back to her disguise, but it wasn't working.
Like something was blocking it.
"Wait!" She heard and turned to see the boy named Chris, panting, "Look I'm sorry! I didn't mean to give the wrong impression! Can we please talk?!" He said and she glared at him.
Sothis appeared and glared also but saw the boy raised an eyebrow.
"Hey, green haired kid? Where did you come from?" He said and Arisa dropped her drink in shock. (Rip latte)
"Y-You can see her?!" She said and he stood up straight after recovering from running.
"Yeah. Am I not supposed too?" He said as he looked over to the frozen Sothis.
"Is she your familiar? Man, that's rare seeing a fae become a human's familiar." He said as he took a few steps closer.
"Whooaa! You even got the pointy ears!" He said and Sothis slapped him.
"You incompetent fool! How dare you point out my ears?! I'm self-conscious you know!" Sothis yelled to him.
"Ow..." the boy rubbed his cheek, "Sorry..." he said and Sothis disappeared.
"Ummm...let's go to a restaurant to talk. Also, please undo whatever you did to me! I can't cast my spell!" Arisa said and he sighed.
"Alright." He said and touched her forehead, Arisa felt like something fell off her.
"Give it a whirl." He said and Arisa was able to change back to her disguise.
- 10 Minutes later: Cafe -
"Two red velvet cakes, one Gloucester coffee with two pumps of goat milk and green tea milk drink sweetened with honey, correct?" A waitress said as the two nodded, "Alright then. We'll bring you your food when it's ready." She said and left.
Chris let go of a sigh he saw the crossed arm Arisa, who had frown on her face. They were sitting in the far corner of the restaurant near the glass window. Thankfully they were the only ones in the cafe and could talk without anyone eavesdropping.
"Look, I'm really sorry about earlier today. You left a lot of unanswered questions yesterday. Names, Chris von Hresvelg, but I go by von Blaiddyd these past years..." he muttered as he had stretched out his hand to shake.
Arisa stared for a moment then shook hands with him.
"Arisa Byleth Reus Eisner. Arisa or Byleth, call me whichever one you prefer. But for now, I go by Kiana Kalsana." She said and his eyes widened.
"Wait, you're Kiana Kalsana?! I knew you were a woman but I was expecting you to be older..." he said and Arisa glared.
"Well, sorry to break the image you had. Kiana Kalsana is my other name I go by to hide my identity!" She said.
"Well, guess I'm not alone then." He chuckled and the lady set down their food and drinks
The two thanked her as she left.
"By the way," she said as she used her fork to cut a small piece, " what spell was that? It felt like you cut off my magic." She said and took a bit of her cake.
"Oh, this is good." She thought as her eyes widened a bit.
"Anti-magic spell. Rarity among people. So, care to explain why you took off the other day? My little brother looked really sad." He said and Arisa glared.
"Trying to gui-wait brother?" She said confused.
"Yeah. Originally I was the fourth prince of the Adrestian Empire but unfortunately..." Arisa suddenly spoke.
"Insurrection of the Seven." He saw the girl drop her fork on the table, her hand shaking.
"Hey, are you alright?" He said and Arisa's hand was shaking as she was able to stutter words.
"I-I'm too late...S-She's already returned back to the Empire." Arisa said, her eyes shaking a bit.
"You're one of Edelgard's siblings...that means...no...no! It was only Edelgard that was supposed to come with her mother to the Empire! Then...this timeline...which one is it?! Crimson Flower?! Azure Moon?! Verdant Wind or Silver Snow?! Just what is going on?!" Arisa was internally screaming and Sothis was telling her breath.
"Hey." She looked up to Chris, who had his eyes narrowed, "Do you know something?" He said and she nodded.
She knew she tried to deny it, us would just shut off her magic till she said everything. And she does not to make an enemy of Edelgard's siblings.
"I-I'm not supposed to be telling you this but...It's your sister...and your siblings."
[-]
She was tried and craved to get out of her uncle's home for once. After an entire year and a half of experiments, and at least given 6 months to recover, she was more than grateful. She didn't want to return to the Empire. Especially after witnessing her twin sisters go mad and kill each other. The two cackling in madness as they ripped each other's throats out then die on the cold floor. Their skin had become pale and their hair white. The girl unconsciously touched the brown-haired wig she wore to hide her white hair and also looked at herself on a glass reflection. Her dark violet eyes had become pale and she wore contacts to hide it.
"Lady Edelgard, are you alright?" She turned to Hubert, who had grown quite a bit these past 5 years.
"Yes, I'm alright. Just...thinking about my brother." She said and Hubert nodded as the two continued to walk.
They headed towards a small cafe and she blinked as she saw the glass window.
"Wait, that's Chris." She said and noticed him talking to a girl, but it looked like they were in a heated argument.
Edelgard rolled her eyes but still chose to go in, hoping to stop whatever was going on. She saw the waiters and waitresses terrified that they had closed the doors as she went in.
"IF IT MEANS I CAN SAVE EDELGARD OR ANY OF MY SIBLINGS, I'LL GLADLY TAKE THEIR PLACE!"
She froze, her blood ran cold. Hubert was frozen also as they heard part of the argument.
"Do you have any idea what you're saying?! If you let that happen, there is a chance you won't even make it through it! I understand how you feel but don't act on impulse!" The black-haired girl said.
"Then what?! Do I sit by and watch as my siblings are experimented on and go mad, while I'm just here?! Not even our mother knows about this!" Chris yelled.
"THAT'S NOT WHAT I AM SAYING! I CAN AT LEAST MANGE TO STOP THE PROGRESS EVEN FOR AT LEAST 10 YEARS!" The girl said.
"FOR WHAT?! YOUR OWN LIFE FORCE?! DON'T BE STUPID ARISA HERNANDEZ!" He yelled and the two froze.
"W-What did just call me?" Arisa said, shocked.
"Wait...why did I call you that...?" He said and just barely the two calmed down.
"Brother...?" The two instantly turned to see a slightly shell-shocked Edelgard and Hubert.
Chris took a deep breath and spoke to Arisa.
"Kiana...we'll talk tomorrow if possible." He turned to her and she nodded as he handed her an envelope.
He sighed as he turned to Edelgard and Hubert.
"You two...I'm sorry you had to witness that." He smiled sadly as he walked up to them and placed his hands on their heads.
"Big bro...ther..." the kids sudden on the verge of falling on the floor, were caught but him.
He erased their memories of what they witnessed.
He carried his sleeping sister in his arm while carrying Hubert like a sack of potatoes.
"Arisa...please..." he was barely able to speak, "Even if we just met...I feel I can trust you..." he said and left out of the cafe.
Arisa sat back down and began sobbing into her hands. Why was everything changing?! She should be happy, yet it felt like things were becoming worse! The waitresses saw it was safe to come out and looked at the girl worried.
"Bring her some lavender tea ladies...I think she needs it." A waiter said.
Arisa felt broken after for the first time since she had come to this world. She had to open her mouth….
Sing with me a song...of silence and blood...
Chapter 21: The New Road: Part 2: Exam: End
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I can hear the knives coming at me! Happy New year's everyone! I the Magic Academy Arc/Faerghus Arc begins! We're going to politics, clash of beliefs, confrontations a lot more. Also, we'll be seeing Zach's, Lestia's and Chris's true roles unfold.
Chris was created to show how things went down in the Empire and also, as the opposite of Arisa. Both will be balancing out each other and that will be shown throughout this arc. We'll also start to see our protagonist make enemies and allies.
I hope you are all looking forward to it!