Minor Update: Accidently confused the Judgment card with the Justice one. Sorry! The correct meaning has been placed. Enjoy the story! And thank you Banru for correcting me!
With the scent of Bergamot tea filling her nostrils, Cornelia could not be more happier as she sat down taking a sip as she watched Lady Patricia offer some to the girl Kiana, who looked like a nervous wreck because she was actually invited by the queen herself to join their tea time, which was rare. Kiana's hands were visibly shaking as she kept her usual smile. It was obvious the girl was trying to compose herself.
"Relax dear," Patricia chuckled as Kiana nodded, but her hands were still shaking, "you look like you walked into a jungle." She said and the girl took a deep breath.
"I'm sorry Lady Patricia. It's just...I'm quite nervous since this is the first time I have been invited to such circle. I'm not very used to it." Kiana said as she managed to take a sip of her tea.
"It is alright." Lady Patricia smiled kindly as she sat back down, "Thank you once again for coming. I have been wanting to talk to you for quite some time, but I have been busy with work." Lady Patricia said as she took a sip of her own tea.
Arisa nodded as she took another sip and felt Cornelia watching her like a hawk. She needs to calm down.
"Breath. Relax." Sothis said softly as she hugged the girl like usual and Arisa felt her tense body relaxed.
Cornelia hid her frown barely as she saw the girl's body suddenly relax and become less tense.
"Tch." The older woman thought as Lady Patricia spoke.
"The reason I invited you is because I want to thank you for teaching my children and others." The queen smiled warmly, "I has been a long time since I saw my son, Chris, look so happy as well as the others. Ever since Chris was a child, he always has been somewhat special." She said and Arisa slowly put her cup down on the table.
The queen smiled warmly as she began to speak of her son, while Cornelia has already heard this story many times.
"He loved sneaking out to the woods and play with the fae at times. He could see things others cannot. He says he could see spirits and talk to them." She said and it took a lot of effort in Cornelia not to choke on her tea when she heard that, because she was not told that before, " He could speak with the wind, the flowers, the water, at times even animals. True, some of the nobles saw him as strange because he would be seen often talking to no one. But...the mages said it was extremely rare ability that very few mages are born with. They say it was a gift from the goddess to certain individuals to keep the balance between the world of magic and reality. Like how light and darkness balance each other." The queen smiled warmly.
"Oh...I did not know that." Cornelia said and Arisa was literally screaming as the smile on Cornelia seemed to become happier.
"Nnoooooo! You shouldn't be saying that information in front of that woman!" Sothis said and Arisa was thinking the exact same thing.
"Chris has told be about his ability. I can see spirits to some extent but not so much." Arisa said and Sothis gave a her a shocked look of "Keep your mouth shut!".
"Oh?" Cornelia smiled as she placed her cup down, "I've heard stories of people who contracted to fae. Which is extremely rare. Are you one of them?" She smiled and Arisa shook her head.
"No, I rather not. I respect their space and culture. I much rather remain friends with them." Arisa smiled and the queen nodded.
"By the way, how has teaching at the academy been for you? Are you settling down living here in Fhirdiad?" Lady Patricia asked and Arisa nodded.
"Teaching has been going well. My students have been enjoying the lectures very much despite how strict I am at times." Arisa chuckled a bit, "But I take my time in teaching them so they can understand it. I do offer tutoring and seminars also." She answered as she took a bit out if the macaroon she picked up.
"I've heard many great things from the students about your class. As well as how many were impressed by the lessons your assistant does." Cornelia said referring to Amir.
"Oh, you mean the young Duscur lady with pink colored hair?" Lady Patricia said and Cornelia nodded, "I have seen her train Gustave's daughter along with Lestia and Lord Arundel's niece. I must admit, her training methods remind me of The Hero of Daphnel." She said and Arisa coughed a bit.
"Well..." she began and the two older women turn to her, "Amir and I are mercenaries and we served as instructors to House Reigan for a few months, a couple of years ago. Amir was trained under Lady Judith's wing during that time." Arisa said and the queen looked at her surprised.
"So that explains why Duke Reigan said you could marry his grandson should the future bring you two together." Cornelia smirked and Arisa coughed uncomfortably.
"I am curious..." Cornelia said and Arisa was not liking where this was starting to go, "you are at an age where you could start receiving engagement letters. Even more since you are a fellow Holy Magus. Meaning, you are a noble now." She said and Arisa turned pale, "You have status, power, control yet you do not use it at all. You could marry into a noble family because you possess a Crest. Many will be asking for your hand in marriage." Cornelia said and Arisa placed down her cup as she closed her eyes.
Cornelia suddenly noticed a shift in the girl's atmosphere as the girl reopened her eyes and smiled.
"I am not interested in marriage at the moment. True, I am at age however it is a subject that I usually do not like discussing." Arisa smiled and Cornelia internally smirked.
Seems she hit a nerve and that was what she wanted.
"Gasp! Who hurt you dear?!" The queen said and Arisa blinked multiple times.
"Oh! Your Majesty, no one hurt me! I am fine. The reason I say this because I am still mourning the loss of my lover." She said and the smile Cornelia had dropped.
"Lover?" Cornelia said and Arisa nodded.
"We were seeing each other for nearly half a year. Her passed away 3 days before our six-month anniversary. It was from a disease called cancer... unfortunately...there is no cure for that disease..." Arisa said and the queen looked at her worried.
"I am so sorry for your loss dear. I know how it feels to lose a loved one..." Lady Patricia said and Arisa smiled sadly.
"It's alright. I know he's in a better place now." Arisa said.
Cornelia was silent as she studied this girl. It was infuriating. She investigated her background and found absolutely nothing. All she found was that she was a traveling mercenary who teaches children how to read and write. That was all!
"Changing the subject," Cornelia said, "I have been meaning to ask you this for a while but, were born here in Fodlan or a different country?" She said and Arisa smiled.
"I was born here in Fodlan but was raised in different countries throughout the years of traveling as a mercenary with my family. We never really settled down in one place. But I do consider Brigid as a second home since my grandmother lives there." Arisa answered smoothly.
Arisa knew Cornelia was trying to get information out of her.
"Just try me bitch...just try me..." Arisa inwardly said as Cornelia nodded.
"Thank you." Was all the woman said and the queen spoke.
"How are my children doing? I hope they aren't too much trouble in class." The queen said and Arisa shook her head.
"They are doing fine Your Majesty. Dimitri, Lestia and their friend Edelgard love trading together with me and their friends. I enjoy teaching them new lessons and sometimes spells." Arisa smiled warmly as she took a sip of her tea.
"I am glad." The queen smiled as she put her hands together, "I have been wondering, do you plan to become the Third Holy Magus of the Kingdom once your contract is over?" She said and Arisa nearly choked on her tea.
She quickly put down her cup and coughed, trying to recover. Cornelia smiled.
"Hmm...the queen wants her to stay. Not a bad move." She had to admit, she was impressed.
Queen Consort Patricia von Arundel wants this girl to marry one of her children and become her daughter in law. Ouch.
"Your Majesty..." Arisa said as she now recovered, "I don't have a plan for that yet. I wish to travel to the Empire for a while before I make such an important decision." She said and the queen already knew that.
"What about after that?" She asked and Arisa felt this was going somewhere she did not like at all.
"Well, I wish to teach at the Garreg Mach Academy after that. Then I will return to the Kingdom in 1181." She said and the queen smiled.
"Oh! Is that so? No plans for seeing others I hope." She said and Arisa finally snapped.
"Your Majesty..." Arisa put her cup down, "I don't mean to sound rude or anything but... where are you trying to get at?" She said and the queen backed down a bit.
"Oh...I am sorry if I came out pushy. It's just, I've noticed how my children look at you. It seems they are falling in love with you and I personally would be more than happy for you to start a relationship with one of them when they are older. After all, you're only two years older than them. I would be more than happy for you to become my daughter in law." She said and Arisa had to do a double take.
Cornelia smiled as she watched the scene unfold. Who knew the queen would use her words in such a way that could trap the girl in a web that she couldn't easily get out of?
"Hmm...she's desperate." The older woman thought as Arisa went silent for a few minutes.
"Your Majesty...I..." Arisa was at a loss of words while Sothis looked at her worried.
"Arisa, this where we leave." Sotjis said and Arisa sighs.
"I'm sorry but I currently have no desire to start a relationship that evolves to more." Arisa said honestly and the queen looked at her shocked, "Please do not get the wrong idea. I am their Professor. The relationship I have towards them is teacher and student. I care about them as if they were my own children. Romantic feelings are something I do not have towards them and would most likely not happen." Arisa said and the world seemed to be crashing down on the queen, "But, if such feelings do come into fruition in the future," Arisa smiled at her sadly, "I want to take my time to get to know them better. To start it slow than to rush it." She said and the queen had hope in her eyes once more.
"So there is a chance you could be my daughter in law?" Lady Patricia said hopefully, and Arisa nodded.
"Yes. But, even if I do not grow feelings towards any of them, they are still my precious friends and students, who I will always stand by their side and guide them. That is my duty as a Professor. To guide them for they can make their own choices in the future." Arisa smiled as she stood up and bowed to the two women, "Thank you for inviting me to have tea with you. May you have a good night." Arisa said and left, closing the door slowly.
"I think you scared her off Patricia." Cornelia chuckled and the queen buried her face into her hands.
"I think I overdid it...I just really want this girl! She...she...I have seen the way my children look at her. The way she treats them. She would be an excellent wife for either of them." Lady Patricia said.
"Not to worry, I'm sure time will bring them together. Just be patient." Cornelia said and the queen nodded.
Now if only she could get a sample of the young girl's blood.
[-]
Arisa bolted back to her room, slamming the door shut, not giving a damn who heard her, locking it shut. The girl grabbed the nearest pillow and screamed her heart out into it.
"That tea party felt beyond suffocating." Sothis appeared again and patted the girl's back gently, "Arisa, you need to be careful. I sense the queen is desperate." She said and Arisa had finished screaming and was panting.
"I-I know! Those questions and her words! I-I never expected to hear that at all!" Arisa panted as she undid her spell.
She really wished Amir was with her but unfortunately, she could not. He friend was currently living in the cottage where Florencio was staying at last month. He owns it, and unfortunately had to return back to Remire Village. He said the girls were welcomed to live in.
"I...I need a drink..." Arisa sighs as she went into her drawer and pulled out her alcohol canteen that she carried wine in.
She popped the cap off and gulped the contents down. Yes, she inherited Jeralt's drinking tolerance. The girl sighed as she wiped her lips and screamed when she saw something move out her balcony. Worse, it was alright night outside.
"Hey! Is everything alright!" Zander yelled out her door, he along with Chris had just returned from training.
She put on her disguise once more and opened the door, revealing the two 17-year olds dressed still in their armors.
"I saw something move outside my balcony." Was all she said, and Zander immediately went in, heading towards the balcony doors.
"You alright? I haven't seen you in a while." Chris said and Arisa shook her head.
"I'll tell you about it later." She said and the two turned as they heard the balcony doors opened.
Zander had his lance ready to attack and cast a light spell to illuminate the place. He kept looking around and saw nothing but the regular balcony.
"Ghaa!" He screamed when something pounced at him and the two bolted out, Arisa with her sword ready and Chris with his gauntlets.
"Relax..." Zander sighs as he got back up and turned to them holding a...
"Meow..."
"Aawwwwww! Que curioso!" The older boy was holding an adorable gray colored British shorthair kitten.
"Dammit Zander! We literally thought you got attacked!" Chris said as he ran his fingers through his hair and the other boy shrugged as he handed Arisa the kitten, who instantly began purring in her arms.
"Que lindo! Holo chiquito, hora tu vives conmigo!" Arisa said in Spanish as the kitten mowed to her back happily while Chris looked at her shocked.
"That language..." he said, and Zander looks at him confused.
"What about her language? It's obvious it's her native tongue." The prince said and Arisa blinked as the kitten purred.
"I know that language...I can understand what you just said." Chris said and Arisa felt her blood run cold.
"Wait, you can?" Zander said, "What did she say?" He asked.
"She said that the kitten is cute and she's keeping him." He smirked smugly and Arisa glared at him.
"Oh. By the way," Zander turned to her, "Make sure Cornelia doesn't see you with the cat. She hates cats and screams at the sight of them." He said and suddenly Chris could hear Sothis cackling evilly.
"Welp, I'm going to take a shower. Chris, you might as well get some rest too. We head out tomorrow." Zander said and Chris nodded.
"Yeah, I know. I'll head to my room in a bit. Kiana and I are going to talk for a bit." He said and Zander froze.
"Ooohhh~ What's this?" Zander said and Chris took a deep breath.
"It's not what your think Zander." Chris said and Arisa shook her head.
"I wanted to discuss with him about new lesson plan for my class." Arisa said and Zander just smiled.
"Suuureeee..." and turned to Chris, "Get it brother!" He said.
"GET THE FUCK OUT YOU DEGENERATE!" Chris roared furiously as he literally made balls of black flames appear in his hands, Zander turning pale as a ghost, bolting for his life, and slamming the door shut.
"Damn...I was only joking. I didn't think he take it offensively" Zander said as he turned to head back to his room but saw that his little siblings just witnessed him leaving Kiana's room.
"What are you doing in Kiana's room?" Lestia said.
"Well, Chris and I thought someone broke into her room, but we realized it was just a cat that got into the balcony." Zander sighs and the two nodded in understanding.
"Hey, can I ask you something?" Lestia said to her older brother as they walked down the hallway to the door of his room, "What do you think the relationship between Kiana and Chris is like?" She asked with arms crossed
Zander chuckled as the color drained from his face because he immediately saw the reaction Dimitri had. He knew damn well his little brother had a crush on the older girl.
"Well to be honest," Zander sighed, "I think he likes her and the two may end up in a relationship in the future." He said and Dimitri's hands balled into fist.
Red flags, red flags!
"Uhhh...okay..." Lestia said as she uncrossed her arms, that wasn't the answer she was hoping for.
"You look like you want to say something." Zander said.
"Look, I'm going to be honest with you. The relationship I see between those two is like they are long lost siblings." Lestia said and Zander sighs while Dimitri had a look of relief.
"Lestia." Dimitri's voice suddenly made the two turn to him, the boy had a smile, "Could you stop trying to make me angry?" He said normally and the girl blinked.
"Angry?" Lestia said confused, "All I did was ask Zander for his honesty. Don't tell me you thought I was aiming at you?" She said.
"Well, you usually do." Dimitri kept his smile, yet his siblings felt a shiver go down their spines for some reason.
Right when Zander was about to speak, the door to Arisa's door opened, Chris coming out as he turned to the door to talk to her.
"Once again I am sorry about that. Look, I'm going to be honest with you. I really don't see you that way." Chris confessed and she nodded as the kitten was asleep in her arms.
"It's the same with me. You...you're like a little brother to me. I actually sorted out my feelings not too long ago and released you remind me a lot of my little brother." She said and unfortunately for the two, the other three were witnessing it.
"Little brother?" Chris chuckled, "I'm older than you. Shouldn't it be big brother?" He said and screeched when she pulled his cheek.
"You were saying idiota?" Arisa smiled and Chris felt scared.
"You know what?" He smiled nervously, " I take it back. You have the older sister roll." He said and she let go of his cheek.
"Anyhow, " she said and smiled to him, "I wish you and the others good luck at the training grounds over at House Fraldarius. I haven't been there since I was four." She said and Chris chuckled.
"No worries. I'm bringing a couple things back for my siblings. So, anything you want?" He said and Arisa thought for a moment then spoke.
"Actually..." she said, "I want to talk to Felicia and Flora. If it's alright... could you ask them about the legends of their tribe?" Arisa and Chris were confused.
"So, a book about the Ice Tribe legends. Got it." He nodded, "But...I was honestly thinking you were going to ask for some sweets. Why about the Ice tribe?" He asked as he crossed his arms.
"Well...it's been bugging me a lot but it's about the Legend of The Ice Maiden, Cirina." She said and Chris nodded.
"Wait." He said, "Which version?" He said.
"What do you mean which version?" Arisa said as she walked out and closed the door to her room.
"Let's head out to the garden. I think this is something you need to hear." He said and the two began to walk away from the room hallway.
Lestia smiled as she turned to her brother.
"See. Told you. Brother and sister, just like us." Lestia said smugly and left towards her room but not before throwing a jab to Dimitri, "By the way," she tilted her head back a bit and smirked, "girl's hate guys who are possessive." And closed her door shut.
[-]
"There are two versions." Chris began as they had walked out to the garden.
Despite it being October, there were a few flowers in bloom, the leaves a beautiful shade of yellow, orange and brown as they fall one by over time. The cold was beginning to come in as well the harvest season. The sky began to turn much clearer and during the day, you can see flocks of wyvern fly across the sky with geese.
"The first version is the one the Church of Serios "claims"," he emphasized with his fingers and Arisa snorted a bit, "is the real one. Honestly that version never sat right with me." He said, "The second version is the one passed down in the native tribes of Fodlan. Like the Ice Tribe, Wolf-skin, fae, and such. That Cirina was a Hero and did the ultimate sacrifice. Only to be betrayed by Serios, the Saints and the 10 elites except the 11th elite, Maurice." He said and Arisa looked at him surprised.
"Wait, how do you know this?" She asked.
"Well, I can see spirits remember. I've met some that claim to have served Cirina 990 years ago. Also..." he quickly looked around to make sure no one was present, "I found out that the Aubin bloodline originated from her. Anyhow, I'll ask them about it." He said and looked around.
"We should be heading back. It's getting late." He said and she nodded.
"Oh my...how lovely to find you two here."
The two turned as they heard a female voice and saw Cornelia walking towards them with her usual smile.
"Good night Lady Cornelia." Chris said and she nodded.
"I'm surprised to see you two together. Training hard to become a knight, Lord Chris?" She said and he nodded.
"Yes." He said and she turned to her.
"Lady Kiana, I'm sorry if this may sound strange but I need a sample of your blood for Crest Research." She said and Arisa frowned.
"I'm sorry Lady Cornelia but I don't exactly like sharing information on my blood. Besides, I'm not a fan of needles." She said and Cornelia opened her eyes, they looked like slits, her smile, sinister.
"Dear, I don't need your consent to get what I want."
The hairs on the two teenagers instantly stood up, and the two took a step back. Cornelia smiled as she took a step forward, taking out her staff.
"I have been kind to you all these times, but my patience has been running low." Cornelia said as she kept walking towards them and the two noticed they were suddenly surrounded by magicians dressed in black robes and plague doctor mask.
"You possess something very valuable for our goal and I need it. Only so few possess a major Crest and that of Serios is very valuable." Cornelia smiled.
"So...she wasn't lying." Chris muttered as Arisa held the kitten closer to her chest.
"We can do this the easy way or the hard way Kiana." Cornelia chuckled, "Let me take a sample of your blood or I'll do it by force." She said and Chris chuckled darkly.
"What's so funny? You won't remember any of this when this is all over. I can't afford to have witnesses." Cornelia said.
"Well you see Cornelia," Chris said as he removed his glove, revealing a strange marking on the top of his hand, "I'm afraid I can't let you do that." He smiled and Arisa shivered.
Before the woman could react, a tornado of flames appeared beneath the two teenagers, the woman was knocked back as well as the mages.
"It's...you..." Arisa stared with wide eyes at the woman of white flames who levitated proudly behind Chris, her hand stretched out as she glared furiously at the mages dressed in black.
"I'm sorry." The vestal witch said, and Arisa blinked multiple times as it turned to her and smiled softly, "Seems I offended you before even if I do not know what it was. But I thank you for watching over my siblings. I am in your debt." She said and Chris smiled softly.
"Gggrrrr! Capture them!" Cornelia yelled furiously and Arisa quickly hugged Chris.
"ALL THREE OF US MOVE BACKWARDS!" Arisa yelled as a magic circle appeared beneath them.
Heather and Chris looked at her shocked, then the world turned purple.
Before the two's eyes, the world began to move backwards. The mages began to move to their original spots, the enraged face Cornelia had returned to one of shock. This was what happened a month ago. The world turned back the color of purple disappeared. It looked like there was no one around and even the kitten in Arisa's arms was spooked at what had just happened. Arisa let go of Chris as she panted hard, her chest burned like if she was on fire. That was the first time she literally went much further in time instead of a few seconds or a few minutes. No, she literally went back to 30 minutes about when Chris and Zander had just barely arrived. The Adrestian prince looked at her shocked as well as his sister.
"Arisa, Arisa!" He quickly caught the girl who nearly collapsed on the ground.
Her chest looked bruised like if she was punched by some metal object. Chris quickly picked her up and the vestal witch disappeared.
"Put me down..." Arisa coughed and he placed her down on one of the benches.
Arisa coughed violently as she held her chest, her body felt it was on fire.
"What the hell was that? The world went backwards...well, it's not the first time I saw it happening..." he said and Arisa looked to him shocked.
"What?" She gasped out and her used Heal on her.
"It happened a month ago, during that bestial attack." Was all he said, and she began coughing again.
"I'll warp us to your balcony. I'm pretty sure Zander is looking for me." He said and wrapped them to the balcony of her room.
He carefully opened the glass door and walked to her bed, setting her down. The little kitten settled on a pillow as it watched him closely.
"We'll talk tomorrow morning. For now, get some rest. I don't know what the hell you did but thank you." He said and she smiled warmly.
"Thank you Chris...really...also...that vestal witch..." she said, worried and he shook his head.
"Tomorrow alright. Thankfully you don't teach tomorrow since the staff is going to do their yearly building checkup. So, catch up on some sleep." He said and she nodded.
He left out her door quietly and made sure no one was in the hallway before he did. He quickly closed the door.
He began to walk down the hallway, wondering what the hell he had just witnessed.
"ALL THREE OF US MOVE BACKWARDS!"
"Hey Chris!" He looked up as he saw his siblings running his way, "Where the hell did you disappear to?! We were both heading back here, and you suddenly disappeared?! What the hell?!" Zander said and Chris looked at him confused.
"What are you talking about? Didn't training ended half an hour ago?" He said and Dimitri looked at him confused.
"No? Training just finished a few minutes ago, it's barely 6:35 pm." Dimitri said and Chris looked at them shocked.
"What? Isn't it 7:10pm?" He said and Lestia raised an eyebrow.
"Chris, are you drunk again?" She said and he shook his head.
"You know what, never mind. Anyhow, if you guys are going to talk to Kiana, I suggest leaving her alone for tonight." He said and Dimitri looked at him worried.
"Is she hurt?" He asked.
"Don't worry, she's fine. She's actually taking care of a kitten she found." He chuckled.
A lot of explaining needs to be done tomorrow, and figure something out to get Cornelia off Arisa's back.
- The Next Day -
It was the damn 12pm in the afternoon already and Arisa had not woken up at all. She was beyond asleep to the point Emily literally slammed her door open and she did not wake up at all, and the poor kitten woke up scared. Thankfully Arisa forgot to undo her disguise last night.
"Hey Emily! Not very polite!" Zander yelled out from out the door as the others peaked in.
Quite a few of the maids and butlers were looking worried as they looked down the hallway. They were very scared to see Lady Emily literally storm into the castle and straight to Lady Kiana's room. Emily looked down at her sleeping friend and sighed as she ripped open her shirt, Lestia quickly slapping her hands over her brothers eyes and Gina's over Chris's. The kitten mowed worried as Emily frowned seeing the giant bruise on the girl's chest, over her heart.
"You idiot...you over did it again. Going back exactly 30 minutes to the past is still too much for you." She muttered she looked up to the others, who were staring.
Her eyes then landed on Dimitri, who flinched at her stare.
"Dimitri." She said, "I need you to do me a favor." She said and the prince was confused as the others, "I need you to place your hand over her chest." And instantly his three siblings pushed him in and closed the door.
"YOU TRAITORS!" Dimitri yelled out while the other three were snickering outside.
"Chris, I need you to bring Edelgard also!" Emily yelled out and the boy did a double take.
- 5 minutes later -
Edelgard and Dimitri both had faces that were burning bright as they their right hand directly on Arisa's chest, over her heart. Emily sighs as she placed a drop of her own blood on their hands.
"Both of you use Heal." She instructed and they nodded.
A warm green light began to come from their hands, Emily's blood began to glow. The purple on Arisa's chest began to heal before their eyes as a softly smile came on the older girl's lips.
"Hm..." Arisa began to stir a bit and sat up, holding her head, "What...?" She said and then began to register that Emily, Dimitri and Edelgard were in her room.
"Whatever happened, I didn't do it." Was the first thing she said and then noticed her shirt opened, quickly pulling the blanket to cover herself.
"Oh Arisa, you're in serious trouble." Emily smiled as Arisa leaned back a bit while the other two were confused, "How many times have I said not to overuse the power of your Crest?" Emily said sweetly.
"This time...I have a good reason." Arisa and Emily raised an eyebrow her, "I'll tell you about it later." Was all she said and turned to the kids, "Dimitri and Edelgard, thank you for healing me. I'm sorry I caused you both troubles." She smiled nervously to them and the two shook their heads.
"It's alright. I'm just glad you better. But seriously Arisa, you need to be careful. What if next time...you don't wake up?" Edelgard said and Arisa was silent as she used some magic to fix her shirt.
The girl stood up and she hugged both children into her arms.
"I'm sorry. Seems I'm only making you kids worry more and more by the day." She smiled sadly to them and patted their heads, "But I'll try to take care of myself better. I promise." She said and kissed their foreheads.
Emily looked quite happy as well as Sothis, who both were trying not to squeal at how the two kids were turning into tea pots. Arisa keeps treating them like a mother. The older girl sighs as the kids quickly excuse themselves, bolting out the door.
"Okay, now that is over," Emily said as Arisa turned to her, "spill it! Why did you use time pulse to such degree!?" She said.
"Cornelia." Arisa said and Emily froze, "Chris and I were in the garden discussing Cirina's legend when Cornelia approached us with her mages. She wants my blood Emily. She said it was either the easy way or the hard way. Emily, she placed a target on my back." Arisa said seriously and the girl nodded.
"She's running out of patience...and go as far to kill Chris to make sure there was no evidence that she attacked you. Alright...I'll let you go on this one." Emily said as she sat down on a chair and looked at her seriously, "Arisa, complete these last two months at the Academy. I'm going to give Cornelia what she wants." She said as she took out a small bottle filled with blood.
"I hope that isn't your blood." Arisa said and the girl shook her head.
"Don't worry. This blood is just a regular female human one. I even mixed some artificial magic blood to make look like it has a Crest of Serios in it." Emily said as she handed it to her, "You're seeing Amir, today right? Make a quick visit to Cornelia in the garden. She tends the poison flowers." She said and Arisa went to do just that.
"Meow." She turned and instantly face palms as she sees the kitten and picks it up.
"And you young man!" The kitten glared at her, "Are in serious trouble! What did your mom say about using magic?!" She scolded it and the kitten hissed.
"Yeah yeah, wait till Mama Tina finds out." Emily said and the kitten let out a whimper as she held it in her arms.
[-]
"Here." Arisa handed Cornelia the potion bottle filled with blood, "I heard from a couple of the students you do Crest Research also so I figured this could help you out. I took a bit of my blood and put in there. Hope it helps with your research." Arisa smiled kindly as Cornelia took it from her.
The older woman blinked multiple times as she stared at it and even used some magic to magic sure it wasn't fake. And it wasn't. It really did have the Crest of Serios in it. She smiled kindly and nodded. Ha! And she thought she was going to have to resort to force.
"Thank you, Kiana. I admit, I was surprised. I didn't think you want to help me." Cornelia said and Arisa smiled.
"I don't want to hag. But it never hurts to have a little fun and mess around with you." Arisa thought.
"Decided to help out a fellow Crest Researcher." Arisa smiled and turned, having a small wave, "Have a good day Lady Cornelia." Arisa said and warped away.
The older woman smirked as she stared at the bottle of blood.
"Oh, you helped me more than you realize."
Did she now? Ha.
- 1 Month Later: Red Wolf Moon: November-
"The Legend of Orion is quite tragic. Now, how does this connect to the constellation called, The Hunter, here in Fodlan?" Teaching class felt much more relaxing.
Two months have now gone by, and Arisa is officially in her third month of living here in Fhirdiad. Like usual, thankfully nothing too eventful has happened and things have settled down. Thankfully Cornelia has not bothered her at all nor the Queen. She has had meetings with King Lambert discussing the land she was given and manor she will have built there soon. As much as Arisa hated being selfish at times, she asked King Lambert if it was possible for her to create her own herb shop in that land. Emily was more than happy for it and even the King agreed to it. One of the main things the Kingdom lacked was a medical shop to have all the supplies for medicines needed to make. Dimitri and Edelgard have gotten closer to her as well as her relationship with her students. When Felix, Ingrid, and Ashe had to return to their home, they had burst into tears (Felix mainly) saying they didn't want to leave. She wished them all good luck and thanked them all for coming to her class, that they enjoyed. She gave them a journal with notes to help them with their studies and weapon training. Sylvain had to return to House Gautier also (unfortunately) and Arisa told him to be careful and if his brother even thinks of messing with him, to send her a letter and she will personally teach him a lesson. Seems Sylvian remembered when she beat the hell out of his older brother when they were younger, and he'll take her up on that offer. Zander and Chris will be returning in December.
Ding.
"Sigh...and unfortunately the bell has rung." Arisa said and she heard a good portion of the students groan, "Well, I guess this lesson continue on the next class. Make sure everyone studies because your midterm is this Friday!" Arisa said and she could have sworn she heard someone cry.
Well, it was nothing new. She always partly enjoyed seeing her students suffer. Sadly, Arisa at times has a sadistic side.
"Excuse me, Professor?" Arisa turned to see Annette, Mercedes and Amir's friend, Kuza along with Linhardt walk up to her, "We were wondering if you could help us? We're having a study session later at the cafe in the Magic District." Linhardt yawns and Arisa smiled.
"Of course!" Arisa said as finished packing her bags "I be more than hap-"
The world around her suddenly changed completely. She called out to her students, worried. Arisa looked around, confused as to where she was. She knew the familiar stone of the throne room Sothis was in, but something didn't feel right.
"Sothis?" Arisa called out as she looked around and began to walk towards the stairs once more but...
"Gasp!" Arisa covered her mouth horrified at what she saw sitting on the throne.
Chains of gold that glowed green came out from the ground, wrapping around the body of an adult female that sat on the throne of stone. Her long hair covered her face that was cast downwards, her clothing was a simple dark green dress, but she could not see her face. Her arms were up, each one chained from the wrist as well as her ankles.
"Hold on!" Arisa's first instinct was to run and help this person, but they raised their head just a tad bit and spoke hoarsely, their voice filled with nothing but sorrow.
"No... don't..." the older woman muttered and Arisa froze, "You must...leave...before...She...finds you..." the woman said.
"Who?! Who?! At least tell me that much?! Who are you?" Arisa yelled out and the older woman smiled sadly despite she began sobbing.
"1000...times...no..I've lost count...I tried...I tried to save them...no matter what I did...nothing changed...but..." the woman looked up to her and Arisa gasped, "At least...you...can...Don't...let your anger...and grief...destroy you...like it did to me." She said.
"WAIT BYLETH!"
"Professor...Professor!" Suddenly the world returned to normal, voices calling out to her, yet..."Professor are you alright?" Mercedes said as she saw tears falling from Arisa's eyes all of a sudden.
Linhardt stared for a few seconds and spoke as the others were asking her if she was alright.
"Professor," he said, and everyone turned to him, "could it be that you just saw a vision?" He said and Arisa nodded.
"I-I did..." Aris wiped her tears quickly and the boy looked at her a bit worried.
"Those this happen often?" He asked and she shook her head.
"Professor, they say that times, a person who bares a Crest will experience the memories of their ancestors at times. It is most likely what you saw." He said and Arisa nodded.
"Well...this isn't the first time it happens..." Arisa sighed as the others looked at her worried.
"Anyhow, I'll help you all with your study session today. Thankfully this is my last class so let's go." Arisa smiled.
No one dared ask her any more questions.
[-]
It's been 3 hours since Arisa had that strange vision. Currently, she was still in the cafe with the group, helping them out with their studies.
"Now, apply this formula here. When using light magic, you need to make sure that the lapis is directly under the moonlight. Apply that with the formula of the white magic spell and the result is this." Arisa said as she was helping Annette and Linhardt with their project in creating a spell for the upcoming mock battle in December. Amir was helping Kuza and Mercedes with a battalion idea along with a healing spell. The door to the cafe opened and in came in Anna, the poor woman looking tired and hasn't aged one bit.
"Oh, well hey you two!" Anna said as she spotted the group and already knew it was Amir and Arisa, "I haven't seen you two in a while. So, these your students?" Anna grinned as she gave them a small wave.
"Hello Anna." Everyone said.
Everyone in the academy knows Anna (except Cornelia) because the woman sells rare items.
"Yes. I'm helping them out for their midterm and final next month." Arisa said as Anna cringed.
"Welp, good luck kids. I'm glad I don't have to study. But anyhow, I came get something to it but seeing you're here, perfect timing." Anna smiled as she went into her bag and took a parcel, "Your father sent this." She said and handed it to Arisa.
"What is it?" Arisa asked and turned to Mercedes, who she also handed a parcel to.
"Sorry, even I don't know. But I know that the parcel I just gave Mercedes is from her mom! She's doing well in Remire Village and is a lot happier." She said and Mercedes quickly opened it.
Inside was a beautiful knitted shawl along with a letter from Mercedes's mother. It read that she was doing well and that the people of Remire village welcomed her with open arms. She is working in Diedra's flower shop. She hopes Mercedes is doing well and hopefully visit soon. Which! By the way, she also happy that Emily and Mercedes are reunited together.
"Will you be staying here for the holidays Mercie?" Annette asked and Mercedes smiled sadly.
"Not this time Annie. I'm going to visit my mother once the resting days come next month. Though Kiana will be here actually." Mercedes said as Annette pouted but nodded in understanding.
"What about your Linhardt and Kuza?" Annette asked the other two.
"I'll be going back home and return back when the new semester starts unfortunately." Linhardt yawns then took a sip of his tea.
"It's the same case with me. Returning home to help my father with a new trading route." He said and Anna's eyes sparkled at the mentioned.
"Well, I hope your kids do well." Anna smiled warmly, "If you kids ever need anything, let me know. I got a bunch of new merchandise!" She said happily.
"Actually," Arisa said and Anna turned her way, " there's something I'm looking for." She said.
Thankfully when Anna arrived, the study session was already coming to an end.
[-]
It's been awhile since the girls have been to Anna's shop. The woman had temporarily rented out a one to sell her new merchandise and she's happy to say business is booming. Walls aligned with weapons, armor, and other amazing sights. Glass display shelves locked, but filled with different rings, gems, and magic tools. A shelf made specifically for herbs and other medical supplies, wooden ones filled with books neatly organized and many more things. Also, an adorable...
"Is that a Griffon egg?" Amir said quickly as she literally bolted to it.
The Griffon egg was gently seated on a pillow and wrapped warmly in blankets. Puka walked up, sniffing it, and purred softly.
"Wait, how did you know? I never said anything." Anna said as she saw the Duscur girl staring at it with soft eyes.
"Fiona and I lived together in the forest for a couple months as a training regimen from Sandy. She taught me a lot about the forest and the animals." Amir answered as she gently picked it up and turned to her, "How much?" She said.
"Well, since it's you Amir, 1 silver. Griffons are difficult to tame unless you raise them since they are infants. Just make sure to take care of it well." Anna smiled as Amir handed her the silver coin. While Arisa looked around, she spotted a book covered in dust, and blew on it.
The Legend of Cirina
Arisa frowns as she held the book, opened it, nonetheless.
"What?" She muttered as she began to read the first page.
This is the true story of my friend, who gave the ultimate sacrifice, even if it meant her name stained.
"Hey Anna," Arisa turned to her, "I'll buy this book along with a couple herbs." She said.
"Alright. Just place the 20 coppers on the table." Anna said as she the girls kept looks around.
Books and books, it was strange that none were catching her interest till she found another one.
"Hmm...Magical Advance Barriers…haaaaaa? Well, into my basket it goes." Arisa said as she put it into her basket.
"What the?" Arisa picked up small steampunk looking doll made of wood.
Gears and clocks and such its arm were made up. It looked like sleeping miniature person as she held it in her hands.
"Oh, I did not know I had that." Anna said as she walked up to her, "It's a magic tool that an inventor from Sreng made. Unfortunately, he passed away a year ago and gave this doll away. She's a cute one, I'll admit that, but I'm a bit disturbed that her body is made of gears, yet the head looks like a regular doll." She said as Arisa studied it.
The doll had green colored hair, dark tan skin. Its body was that of a regular female doll but it's arms were made of gears, and such.
"Can I keep her?" Arisa said and Anna nodded.
"Yeah, go ahead. I honestly haven't been able to sell it and it's just picking up dust. Not sure what type of magic tool it is rather than it just looks like a doll." Anna said as Arisa moved a bit for her to pick up a nice brown box with silk cloth inside.
"I'll wrap it up for you." Anna smiled and Arisa nodded as she gently placed the doll back into its box.
- Fraldarius Territory-
"Zeeh! Hhyyaaa!"
"Rhaa!"
"Heh!"
Left, right, up, down. Six pair pairs of eyes watched each other's movements as they dodged attacks. Sir Rodrigue watched silently as the two young princes and his older son were in a three-way sparring match. Zander used his wooden lance to countermeasure against Glenn's wooden sword and Glenn bent back barely just a bit to dodge Chris's wooden gauntlets.
"Not bad Glenn." Zander said as the three jumped back, all three had smirks.
"Good job Ris." Heather appeared, scaring the hell out of everyone as she gently hugged her brother and patted his head.
Rodrigue uncrossed his arms as he looked at the prince in shock as the vestal witch smiled kindly while patting his head, which many were surprised he wasn't on fire.
"Heather, please..." Chris said and the witch giggled as she floated around him.
"No no. I am still your older sister so I shall praise you, Ris." Heather smiled as she floated around again.
"Bro...when did you make a contract with a Vestal Witch?!" Zander as Heather turned to him and blinked multiple times.
"Last month." Chris said as his sister giggled as she floated towards Zander, who backed away along with Glenn.
"You're cute. Sigh...too bad you're younger than me. I would have loved for you and me to get to know each other better. Sadly, I am no longer human." She said and returned to her brother's side.
"No longer human...?" Glenn said and Chris nodded.
"Unfortunately, Heather is a victim of a group of mages that used her as a sacrifice for a ritual of dark magic. She ended up turning...into a vestal witch..." Chris said as the other two looked at the girl sadly and shocked.
They heard footsteps approaching and turned to see Lord Rodrigue walking towards them.
"Lord Chirs...for your safety, do let anyone outside of this group to know you have formed such a contract. This is for your safety." He said and Heather glared at him.
"Calm down..." Chris said and Heather just sighs.
"Changing the subject, any news from our father? Lestia has been writing me nonstop to get her some blue velvet cloth for a dress her and Annette are making together." He said as his sister disappeared back to the marking on his hand.
"Haha! Really now, well don't keep your sister waiting." Rodrigue laughed a bit as Chris nodded and went back to his friends.
Still, the older man worried for the prince. The tradition of the Kingdom is to dispose of those who could being harm. The vestal witches are seen as those who have committed treason to the teachings of Serios. Yet, hearing that the one he is contracted to is victim….. it is not the first time he has heard such thing. In his younger days, he and his friend and King, have fought vestal witches. Some have shown pure hatred towards humans, others did not fight back and kept running for their lives. Some have even been saved by fae, who the Kingdom deeply respects for they have helped many knights over the years that have gone by. Yet, there were those who screamed and grieve, begging knights to kill them, to end their suffering. It always left a bitter taste in his mouth and many others. The Church of Serios says that the Vestal Witches are nuns who have betrayed the teachings of Setios and have received Divine punishment from the goddess. Yet... why do these witches grieve?
"End me! End me! My family is gone! End me!"
Sir Rodrigue shook his head as he saw the vestal witch appear once more as she looked down at his younger son, Felix. The boy looked ready to cry as she reached her hand to him and patted his head. The boy flinched but was confused as the head pat felt like something his mother would do. They say white flames respect white magic, sorrow, joy, yet kindness. The witch healed the boy's hand and smiled softly before she disappeared once more.
Another thing...the rise of demonic beast and these vestals over the years is not a natural thing. As much as he is not fond of speaking of the subject, it is something that must be addressed with his king and friend.
[-]
"Hmmmm...that should do it." With pieces of silks, cloths, beads on her desk, along with multiple needles and a small hairbrush, Arisa smiled softly as she placed down a small miniature paint brush as she finished dressing and touching up the doll.
Sothis smiled softly as Arisa picked it up, proud of her work. She had sewed clothing for the doll and dressed in a cute homemade Academy uniform with white gloves and cute shoes.
"I never thought you were the type to do things like this." Sothis hummed as Arisa gently sat the doll on her desk.
"It's rare but I used to own a sewing machine. One of the little sisters would always accidentally RIP her dolls clothing and I would sew them. Even make some custom clothing. Sadly, sewing machines don't exist here BUT I would be more than happy to build one. Got to thank Jorah for teaching me how to build magic tools as well as reading one of Professor Hanneman's books on how to build them~" Arisa sung happily as she opened the doll's box once more and pulled out the key in it.
Funny how it was the shape of the moon. She gently turned doll to its back and found the keyhole, right in the center of her back, and put it in, turning the key. The two females waited for something to happen but Sothis whined when the doll did not move.
"Well, that was let down." Arisa sighs then noticed the purple gem in the center of it.
"It is a magic tool...so this could work." She thought as she opened the center of the dress, took a small needle and pricked her finger, letting a small drop of her blood fell onto the gem, letting it absorb it.
A small faint glow appeared, Arisa, smiled as she reclosed the dress.
"Let's try this again." She smiled as she inserted the key and once more, turned it.
Creak, creak, creak. The sound of gears turning filled her ears. The doll began to twitch, one arm moved a bit next the legs, its eyes fluttering open as it revealed purple colored ones. The doll starred as Arisa smiled softly, picking it up.
"I usually don't do things like this. Not sure if you have a name but I'll give you one for now. How about...Aqua?" She said and Sothis nodded in approval. The doll slightly turned its head as it stares, watching the two females talking to each other as gently set her back down.
Aqua.
"What a strange name..."
- A Few Days Later -
"Tarot cards or Cards of the star are said to have originated from a regular game. In a country called Europe, they originated from regular card game. It wasn't until later that when the occult came into vogue the cards were given different meanings. Now, " Finally the topic of Crest and the Cards of the Stars had come.
Linhardt felt his heart beating rapidly as the lesson began. He had never looked awake and his fellow Crest scholars were also excited.
"Now, a Tarot deck consists of 78 cards. The first 22 cards are the Major Arcana. These cards have symbolic meanings focused on the material world, the intuitive mind, and the realm of change. The remaining 56 cards are the Minor Arcana and are divided into four groups or suits: Swords, Pentacles (or Coins), Wands and Cups. Now, how do these connect to crest?" Arisa said as her giant rings showed the images, "The major Arcana, in away are the Crest themselves. In different countries, they have different meanings. Depending if the card is upwards or reversed. Now, someone call out a random crest!" Arisa yelled out and a Crest scholar yelled out, "Crest of Cethleann!" snickered and Linhardt shot them a glare.
Arisa chuckled a bit as she nodded but looked over to Linhardt, who just shrugged, his way of saying it was alright. He looked over to his desk raised an eyebrow as he noticed the doll staring his way.
"Weird." He muttered as he turned back to the lesson.
Many of the students earlier asked why the professor had a doll. She explained to them it was magic tool she got friend a friend is doing a few tests runs on it, they all nodded in understanding.
"The Crest of Cethleann, in the major Arcana, is known as, The Lovers." Arisa said and a few people began whistling.
One closed eye smile from Mercedes shit them all up.
"The lovers, Upright, means love, harmony, relationships, values alignment, choices."
Instantly everyone turned to the Professor's desk, even Arisa looked at the doll, Aqua, schooled at hearing it speaks. The dolled named Aqua, stood up, and held her hand together as continued to speak.
"The lovers reverse means Self-love, disharmony, imbalance, misalignment of values." Aqua said and suddenly Linhardt felt...exposed.
The doll continued to look around and her eyes landed on Annette, who gulped.
"The Crest of Dominic, in the major Arcana, it is known as, The Empress." Aqua said and many turned to look at Annette, who shied away, "The Empress up, means femininity, beauty, nature, nurturing, abundance." She said and Annette was turning red, "However, in reverse, it means Creative block, dependence on others." Aqua bluntly said and the poor girl felt she had been stabbed by multiple arrows.
"Ummm...well, that was completely unexpected." Arisa scratched her cheek as she walked up to her doll, "Aqua, can you be a bit kinder please?" She said and many were muttering among another and Mercedes was comforting her friend.
"Very well." Aqua bowed and suddenly someone yelled out, "Crest of Blaiddyd!" And Arisa instantly glared at the one that said it, who shrunk away.
"The Crest of Blaiddyd in the Major Arcana is The Justice card." Aqua said and Arisa quickly turned to her, "Upright, it means justice, fairness, truth, cause and effect, law. In Reverse it means, unfairness, lack of accountability, and dishonesty." Aqua said and her eyes began fluttering closed.
"Sleepy...so sleepy...good night..." Aqua yawned cutely and laid down on the table, curling in and digging her knees.
A 2-minute silence came over the entire class as Arisa gently put the doll back into her bag, and sighed.
"Everyone...I apologize about that. I honestly did not think it could talk." Arisa scratched her cheek and turned to Linhardt and Annette, "Especially to you to. I did not think this begun heading...to the deeper side." She said.
Linhardt sighs and spoke.
"It's alright Professor. Though I must admit, I'm actually quite interested in hearing the rest." He said and Arisa looked at him shocked.
"Me too!"
"Me three!"
The class began talking, wanting to hear more on the topic and Arisa could not help but smile as she nodded.
"Alright then. But please do not tease anyone about this! I got my work cut out already. Reminding me, mock battle next month! Along with your groups final!" She said and the class began groaning.
Well, things took a better turn.
- 1 Month Later: Ethereal Moon - December
Hell. It was complete hell and it was only the 2nd week of December. Which meant for everyone, the Holidays and...
"AAAAHHHHHHHH! I HATE THESE DAMN FINALS!"
Complete mental breakdowns for most of the students and staff at the Magic Academy. Both Professors and students alike, all had their work cut out for them. Currently, Arisa was with all the other professors of the academy in the teachers' lounge, all grading papers, hell, even Cornelia and Emily looked walked into a blood bath with all the grading that needs to be done on the advance formulas. Cornelia and Emily both taught the Upper Division classes that were extremely advanced that they only literally had 20 students each out of the 3,000 students in the academy. The one that currently screamed was one of the older Male professors, who taught making potions. There was the woman whose literal name is Professor Snake, who was a beast in the Defense Against the Dark Arts class. She's really nice but she's brutal when she trains her students. Arisa groans as she rubbed her eyes and Aqua, who still (unfortunately) acted like a soulless maid, just bowed to her. Everyone was writing down their exams and Arisa was preparing for the mock battle, not to mention Lestia, Edelgard, Mercedes and have been constantly asking her for her measurements for the upcoming ball on the 25th. At least classes end on the 19th.
"Would you like me to bet you a coffee Lady Kiana?" Aqua asked and Arisa sighs, shaking her head.
"Ughhhhhh! I want to dump all these into fire and jump into the hot spring!" Emily screeched as she slammed her face onto the table and nearly spilled her ink bottle.
"Unfortunately, even I have to agree with you on this..." Cornelia groaned as she buried her face into her hands.
"Let's all take a break...I think we all deserve it." Professor Snake sighs as she placed down her quill and took out her staff, waving it towards one of the shelves that had teacups, plates and also food, head towards their tables, and served everyone lavender tea to help relax a bit.
"Hoooott!"
Arisa chuckled softly as everyone turned to the window, seeing Feh fly in, landing on her head.
"Hey Feh..." Arisa said as the snowy owl jumped onto her lap and made its comfortable.
"Must be nice having an owl...I wish I could own one but sadly my husband is allergic to birds." One of the male professors said as he took a sip of his tea and went back to working on his exam.
"I also own a pegasus...I'm thinking of taking the exam to become a Dark Flier." Arisa said and Professor Snake nodded.
"Nice choice. Dark Fliers exams are very difficult but I'm sure you'll make it." Professor Snake said and Arisa thanked her.
"Anyway, back to these bloody exams...after this...who wants to go to the hot springs? I'll pay." Emily said and everyone raised their hand.
"Cornelia, you pay for your own." She hissed the older woman growled.
"Damn bitch." Cornelia said and the two-woman lunged at each other like cats.
At this point, no one wanted to deal with their fights and just let them be. Not also mention from the amount of partying they all did last month on the 21st, which was the founding of The Holy Kingdom of Faerghus. There was a festival that day and hooooooo boyyyy! Amir, Anna, Arisa and Mercedes along with Emily went out together and drank to their heart's contents. The first one out on the drinking game was Anna, she lasted 7 shots of whiskey. Amir, 8, Arisa 10, and no one knows how the hell Mercedes managed to hold out till 13 shots. The girl that had a higher alcohol tolerance than anyone thought. It was safe to say, all four were wasted by then and Kuza along with Erik, had to carry the women back to their homes. Thankfully, Arisa, Amir and Mercedes spent the night together in the cottage, all fast asleep while poor Kuza had to suffer and lock the doors for them. Erik just warped himself and his wife home. Kuza carried Anna back to her shop.
It was safe to say, none of them got up to work the next day because of their hangover.
- 2 Hours Later -
With the beginning of the second week, the of The Ethereal Moon, Zander and Chris were in a carriage, returning from Fraldarius territory. The winter has come, and the snow has begun to fall. People decorating their homes for the holidays and such.
"Good to be back home!" Zander said cheerfully as Gina was trying not to fall asleep.
"I need a bath. I swear...Rodrigue and Jakob are as brutal as always. At least we got spared from Gustave and Cassandra this year." Chris yawns as he moved a bit the cloth to speak to the driver, "How long till we arrive at the palace?" He asked.
"In a bit your Highness." The driver said and the two men let go of a sigh.
"Anyhow, I wonder how the others are doing? Two copper coins Dimitri grew an inch." Zander smirked and Chris smirked back.
"I bet three inches." Chris said and the two shook hands.
"Hey...I didn't get to ask you this but what's your relationship with Kiana?" Zander said a bit nervously and Chris looked at him with raised eyebrows.
"Before you ask, the reason I'm asking is because I have seen the way Edelgard and Dimitri look at her. Also, because..." he looked over to Gina, who fell asleep.
"Zander, Kiana...sigh...I feel like Kiana is like...how do I say it...a long lost sister. Even if we aren't blood related, she reminds me so much of an older sister. I figured that much. The feelings I have towards her are like the feelings I have towards you guys and Edelgard. You are my siblings. Family." He smiled softly and Zander nodded.
"Hey, thanks." Zander said" You cleared up something that has been bugging me a lot. Also, it's safe to say Dimitri and Edelgard will be happy to hear it too." He smiled then smirked as he looked over to Gina, "So, I heard you plan to court her?" He said.
"I don't deny it. I want to marry Gina in the future." He smiled and Zander gawk.
"Chris...Hubert is going to murder you..." Zander and Chris smirked, "I know. But it's a risk I'm willing to take." Chris said and Zander couldn't help but give him a high five.
The two looked out the window and smiled when they saw they had arrived at the palace.
"We're home."
Chapter 27: Muddled Sight: Part 1: Hated Topics
[-]
The Count Down to The Tragedy of Duscur begins. We are 3 or 4 chapters away. In the game, we don't exactly know when the Tragedy of Duscur occurs. All we know is that it took place in 1176. So, to balance out my plans, we'll be having a traumatic event take place where now Arisa and also Amir, will have to get their hands dirty to save someone important. That plus the Tragedy will really test not just the two girls' wits, but everyone that will be involved. I do apologize if this chapter was a bit confusing, but then again, I do it sometimes on purpose to make everyone think.
We really dove down into this on discussions of what is to come in the future. Such as the topic of marriage, which is something Arisa usually tends to avoid like the plague. Next, we start to see a small change in each of the characters emotions.
Aqua was added another side character that is like another mini friend to Arisa. I also thought it was time for Amir to have another pet. Aqua, despite being a side character and magic tool, does play a role, but that will happen once we get into the main story in around...7? Chapters? I'm don't plan to rush it. Like I said, I want to flesh out everything so it can all fall into place.
Heather appearing and also a bit of a showcase on Rodrigue. Like Claude and Dimitri, both Zander and Chris don't exactly believe in The Goddess of Fodlan. That part will be shown more towards when we reach the main story and our characters all full grownups. Arisa using time pulse to go back exactly 30 minutes was a big push and improvement in the growth of her power. We'll see it come more into play soon. I will be throwing in a surprise meeting soon.
Also, remember, year 1176. I call it the year where SHIT HIT THE Fan!
First, we have the Tragedy of Duscur. Though The Dagda and Brigid War was in 1175, Arisa will be told about it soon. Her reaction isn't going to be good. She's going to be really pissed at herself for forgetting that really important event. And yes, we will have the first appearance of one of the Ashen Wolves members soon. Guess who?
Well, time for the Countdown to begin!