Maybe it was the wind. Maybe it was the sun. Maybe it was because he wasn't used to being on an old school ancient ship from the days of the Mayflower? Whatever it was, he was feeling sick to his stomach while his older sister looked like sweet sunshine that just rose from the horizon because she wasn't seasick compared to him. Even Red Hare, Feh and surprisingly Blanca looked like they did this million times. He's angry at himself. This world, he lived his entire life as noble, so going to ships and traveling and such was a rare thing. He had a happy life till 1174. He and Edelgard were forced to leave with their uncle and mother while the rest of their siblings were forced to stay behind. Hit by reality like a damn truck. Then the sudden change in the environment, living in the Kingdom, his mother remarrying, the addition of 3 new step siblings? It was too much at once. He had closed himself off and only opened to his little sister and surprisingly Hubert.
Then he met Dimitri and Lestia.
He still remembers the day the young boy found him training by himself in the training fields of the palace. It was a harsh winter and he wasn't used to it. It had been 3 months since he was living at the palace. He was going to meet his new siblings that day which he honestly was not looking forward too. As he trained in the snow, thrusting the wooden lance with such force that even made some snow melt. He accidentally used Tempest Lance, but he didn't give a damn at that point. He was a child, he young (he still is) made a bunch of irrational choices but thankfully it wasn't the rebellious phase that he went through in his old world. He threw the lance onto the floor and began throwing punches. Back then, the word "boxing" was foreign to him even if he knew all the movements and punches and such when he did them training. He felt eyes watching him, but he did not care as he kept throwing punches, grunts made even yells. Then he began to throw inhuman high kicks and all that was racing through his mind was how did he know all these foreign combat techniques, but he did not care. A feeling of relief filled him when he was doing them. He stopped and panted hard, trying to catch his breath till he heard time footsteps approaching him. The older boy had turned to see a young girl with a maiden haircut, azure eyes, and wearing blue winter clothing. Timid they were and he can tell they wanted to say something.
"Little lass, are you lost?" Those had to be the words that left his mouth.
Dimitri because a stuttering mess and it took him 13 seconds to realize his mistake because not too far, booming laughter of a real little girl was heard and turned to see a girl who was the splitting image of the now boy, except her hair was curled and tied with blue and pink ribbons, also wearing the same clothing.
"Hey, hey!" Her cheerful voice threw a bit off guard that it put him on edge, "So you're Lady Patricia's son huh? You're the same age as big brother Zander! Uffufu! My twin brother and I noticed someone training in this ice-cold weather which is extremely rare. I never seen those combat techniques! Oohh! Are you a professional War Monk!? Ooohh! Grappler?" The girl said excitedly as she bounced around him like a rabbit.
"Lestia, stop. You're being improper." The boy said as the one now called Lestia stopped bouncing and stuck her tongue out at him.
"You're no fun Dimitri!" Lestia said to the boy Dimitri, who sent her a glare.
"Heh." The two siblings turned when they heard the small laugh come from the older boy, who was trying to stifle his laughter but unfortunately was failing miserably.
"No manches...esta si es bien traviesa..." he said in the foreign language he somehow already knew since he was born.
Lestia and Dimitri blinked as they heard him speak, the young girl was curious about such strange language, it piqued her interest.
"I have never heard that language before. Then again, there still many unknown things here in Fodlan." Lestia smiled as she made herself float a bit, swinging her legs lightly, "So, what's your name?" She asked.
At time, his name was Chris, the name given to him by his birth parents of this world, but he always felt he was missing something, but he did not know what. Perhaps meeting that woman called Noa influenced him. She said a name that sounded so familiar to him, as if it was a part of him. But that was a few years ago, when he and his family were still one. When the times of joy were together. Meeting the twins then meeting their older brother, slowly opening to the King of Faerghus who he grew to see as a second father. Seeing his mother smile once more, meeting with his sister even if in secret. 5 years went by then...
He met Arisa.
The moment his eyes landed on the passed-out girl at the open field, his throat felt dry. He felt like he was seeing a ghost. That the feeling he was seeing someone from the dead come back. He was good at hiding his true emotions. Far too good at times. The girl on the field woke up, dazed and confused till she bolted up, running towards a Bush to let her stomach go. But he wasn't pleased with the reaction the girl had when Dimitri called out her name. Running away is what she did but her eyes held a different story. Fear, confusion, regret yet also joy. He had to talk to her if he encountered her again. He must. She felt familiar like he knows her, yet he had never met her before. Back then, he did not understand the wave of emotions that kept crashing down on him. He knew her likes, a couple of her habits and such. The feeling of a missing family...that was what it felt like.
[-]
"Hey Christian!" He looked up to see his older sister holding out a pill to him, "It's stomach medicine. Should help with the seasickness. You aren't used to travelling by ship, are you?" Arisa said and he nodded.
"Yeah...this is...my first time on one." He said a bit weakly as he took the pill and gulped it down dry, "How are you not sick?" He asked her.
"I have been traveling back and forth between the land and sea all my life here. Trust me, I was the same as you when I first boarded a ship here. Terrible sea sickness. It took me awhile to adjust. Now, it just feels natural." Arisa said as she rested her elbows on the ship rails, looking out to the ocean.
"This brings back memories. When we used to go to the beach to go fishing with our friends." She said and he chuckled, the medicine working its magic.
"Maybe after we rescue Gina, we can go fishing together." He said and she smiled softly.
"Hey," he said, "Do you...think of seeing someone in the future?" He said.
"As in, looking for a relationship?" Arisa raised an eyebrow at him.
"Yes. You died single on our old home, not to mention before...the disease came back, you had plans to adopt a child. What are your plans now?" He said and she was silent.
The girl turned, leaning on the rails, with arms crossed, thinking for a moment before she spoke.
"I honestly don't know." She answered, "But one thing for sure is that I will not be accepting the role of New Archbishop in the future. That fate was set by default in the game. I don't want that. I want my own path. I want to live my life. I want to fall in love and find my significant other. I don't want to rule a damn country. Is that selfish of me?" She said and Sothis appeared before them.
"Of course, it isn't!" The goddess said as the two looked over to her, "This is your path! You cut your own! You have already changed so much that the River of Time is making new paths! My friend, I said this over a million times, and I will keep repeating it. Cut your own path. You swore to me you would!" Sothis said and Christian smiled at her.
"Arisa, you may be Byleth but you aren't "Byleth"." He said and the girl turned to him, "Hell, we may have been born to different families this time around but like in our old home, we created our own paths. And we will keep doing it." He said and Arisa smiled at him sadly.
"I know. I know..." she muttered and looked over to a few kids that were playing around.
"You have that look in your eyes." Christian chuckled and his sister's ears turned red, "I remember when you said you had plans to adopt a child. Mom went ballistic while dad may have been hesitant, he said it was your decision. "Well, if you don't care about my child just because they are not our blood, then don't come to my house." You said to mom and you barely escaped from an ass whooping from dad. At least he gave you the cold tone to not ever speak to mom like that again." He said and the girl rolled her eyes.
"But I really did mean what I said." Arisa said, "Just because someone is, not blood related to you does not mean they aren't family. We all have multiple family figures throughout our lives as we grow up. A couple of the elementary kids I would tutor thought of me as a mother or older sister. Some even an aunt or Godmother. One kid thought of me as a grandma..." she grumbled that last part and he snorted along with Sothis, "I honestly wanted to start my own family. I had a well paid off job, was in the process of buying my own house since dad was helping me out on how to fill out the paperwork and deposit. I was a month away from graduating with my Master's degree. I honestly don't care if I was single back. Only time would tell if I found the love of my life." She sighs.
"Then what about now?" Christian said, "Do hope to settle down in the future? Remember, this world is no longer a game. This is real life. We must work for what we want. Anyone in mind? By the way, me and Theresa both died single in our old home. So, I'm happy to find someone I truly love here in this world." He said.
"Love interest, and settle down huh?" Arisa hummed as she made herself float, and laid down a bit, looking at him upside down, "No. I don't have anyone in mind. Besides, I'm not stupid. I know both Edelgard and Dimitri have a crush on me. Though I turned down Dimitri for obvious reasons. He's too young right now and I don't need the FBI after me." Arisa huffed as she was dangling with her feet up in the air now.
Christian could not help but chuckle at her saying that.
"Anyone you plan to pursue then?" He said.
"Honestly no one. I'm not desperate." She answered and he raised an eyebrow at her.
"So, you plan to marry Sothis?" And the goddess instantly became a stuttering mess.
"What? No!" Arisa said and the goddess smacked him.
"Arisa is like a daughter/little sister to me! You're sick!" Sothis yelled at him and he shrugged.
"But seriously, what would you do if someone pursues you? What would you do?" He asked her.
"Well, I'll take my time to get to know them and from there I'll see if we are a good match. But honestly, the majority of everyone I see like my kids. Teacher student relationship." She said and Christian nearly groans.
She isn't an idiot, he knows that. He knows that's how she always been. She rarely sees people past beyond the point as friends. She has dated both men and women, but the relationships didn't work out and she would politely break up with them. The only time one person wasn't happy that she was breaking up with them, both he and Theresa had to stand in front of her because the woman was going to get violent with her. Arisa ended up taking down the woman like some police officer. But he remembers the one relationship she was in when she was hospitalized. The man honestly was a kind person and unfortunately passed away.
"What if the emotions Dimitri has eventually become more than just a crush? What will you do then?" Christian asked her the difficult one and saw her stiffened, "What about others that may purse you? Oh, I don't know, Edelgard, Claude, Ferdinand, Dorothea, heck even Hubert?" He said.
"Actually, Claude won't be going after me. He's going after Theresa!" She said.
"Oh, so her dream came true." He said and the two could not help but burst out laughing," But seriously though? The ones going through the full changes will be all of them. They won't be kids anymore; they will be adults. What will you do? What change will also happen to you but also them? Will you still see them as your precious students or as adults?" He said seriously to her.
"I...I...sigh I honestly don't know. Only my heart knows." Arisa answered him.
"Do not rush things." Sothis said, "I'm sure as time passes by, you will find your answers. For now, just enjoy your life." She smiled at them.
Sometimes, both Christian and Arisa wonder what on earth they did to deserve someone like Sothis in their life?
- 5 days later: Enbarr -
Building after building, dams filled with water, the structures that reminded them almost of ancient Rome with a bit mixed of the modern era. The legendary fortress city, Enbarr.
"This place is amazing!" Arisa said cheerfully as she rode on Red Hare, Feh perched on his head and Blanca in her arms. The world pup had grown quite a bit these past few days. Christian looked around as a sad smile graced his lips, this place was his home. It was bittersweet feeling to return. As he kept looking around, his eyes landed on the hidden alleyways, seeing people of no homes, those living in poverty. When he was a noble, he did not see this side, but now that his memories have returned, he knew better.
"Arisa, go on ahead bit." He said and she looked to wear he was looking, and the girl got down her pegasus.
"I have food and money to give. As well as medicine to help any of the sick." She said as she made Red Hare shirking.
Blanca walked beside her and Feh perched on her shoulder. The two began to walk through the alleyways, many of the people living there looked at them with suspicion till Arisa spotted a child that was obviously sick. Her footsteps quickly became fast. She was now in front of the child, herhands over their head.
"103○ fever!" She said and the child was passing out in her arms as she picked them up.
Thankfully some of the adults around led them to the small tent town they had. She began treating the boy with the usual process. This was Christian's first time seeing her so focused. Many were gathering around watching the girl use her magic as well as her medical skills. Arisa let go a sigh of relief when the child's eyes opened.
"You're better now. I used my magic to heal you." She smiled and stood up, turning to the people, "Anyone who is sick, could be, or even hurt, I will treat you. May name is Kiana Kalsana, Holy Magus." She said instantly many began to come.
Christian instantly knew what this was leading too and went to her bag, pulling out her medical kit, as well as a table to give food to the people. Kiana Kalsana was a name well known among those that lived in poverty. The woman that would travel around Fodlan treating and helping the poor, asking no money in return. It took at least 2 hours to treat the citizens, as well give medicine to those who desperately needed it. He knew some magic to some extent. His specialty was more of anti-magic as well as physical combat. He knows how to use a sword but rarely shows his skills. He looked at the sword that was strapped on his back, inside a special case to hide its power, where there was supposed to be no Crest stone, the Crest Stone of Flames was there.
"Christian?" The boy saw his sister walk up to him, removing her mask and gloves, "I'm done. It took a while but everyone in this area should be better. Thank you for helping serve food. I really appreciate it. And, even seeing huh?" She smiled warmly to him as he handed a little girl back her doll that he had stitched up.
"Thank you, mister eyepatch!" The little girl giggled as she ran back to her mother.
"Mr. Eyepatch." Arisa teased him and he rolled his eye at her.
"Thank you two." They turned as they saw an elderly man walk up to them, "If it has been a long time since I have seen people like you both come to this place to help us. Doctor Robert used to come unfortunately has not been able to. Many are worried for him." The elderly man said, he wore a strange cloak.
"I'll check on him when I can." Arisa smiled kindly to him, "Also I may have to pay Duchess Marry a visit." She thought and noticed the elder took out something from his pocket.
"As a thank you, please except this." The elder man held in his hand wooden box, right when the two were about to protest, he spoke, "I have lived long enough, and I can tell you two are kind souls. Please accept it. I know you two will have better use for it." He said.
"Are you sure about this Sir?" Christian asked, "This looks very important to you." He said and the elder smiled fondly at them.
"I am sure." He said as Arisa was gently handed the wooden box, "I know you two will do well. May Sothis protect you both." He said their eyes went wide but the man was gone.
"Elder..." Arisa muttered and the two nodded as they began to leave the alley ways.
- Later at Night -
"Remind me why we are going to watch a show at the opera house?" Christian said as he and Arisa rented a room at one of the inns, first class just for the hell of it.
Currently they were getting dressed in noble clothing and Arisa got him a nice black leather tailcoat, with the matching pants, underneath he wore a white button up shirt.
"Because Dorothea is singing, and I want to actually see it myself." She said as she left out of the bathroom wearing a dark blue renaissance dress with the long sleeves, her hair combed straight and wore the gold chain on her head along with her dragon stone necklace.
"I know we need to save Gina, but we need to also gather information. As much as we can, and the best place unfortunately," she sighs as she walked up to him and fixed his eye patch, "is where nobles gather. But be on alert. If any of them try to sneak into the back to attack the females and staff, you know what to do." She said seriously and he nodded.
"I know." Chris said as they used their magic to conceal their weapons.
Tonight, was going to be interesting.
- Opera House -
It felt strange to be surrounded by nobles once again. Christian wasn't exactly happy at this as he looked around, the fact that his sister had enough money to get a balcony for them to be at. While they waited in the waiting hall like many others, both were getting looks from the people around. Men and women whispered to each other about them. He wasn't exactly with the comments he could hear about his sister that some men think she was beautiful and may ask her name to court her. Nope. The boy took one step closer to his sister and his face went cold, scaring the men off. Many flinched. He was honestly surprised no one recognized him. Perhaps it was because he cut his hair and it was now spiky compared to when he had it long. As well as his eye color is different, and he wore an eye patch to hide his "ghoul" eye he now calls it. Arisa was silent as she kept a neutral face but even heard a lot of comments from the females about them two. Being called beautiful and then many were having the hots for her brother. The two may no longer be blood related anymore but they were still family, even if spiritually now. She looked around, hoping to spot familiar faces and she did.
"Oh! If it isn't Arisa!" Dammit it was Manuela!
The older woman spotted the two and walked up to them, dressed in a fancy dark red dress, her usual make up.
"Manuela it has been awhile." Arisa smiled warmly as the two hugged.
"It has! Look at you! Also, who is this handsome man?" The woman said as she turned to Christian, who backed away a bit.
"It's a pleasure to meet you Lady Manuela. My name is Christian, Arisa's older brother." Christian said and Arisa mentally sent him a curse.
"Hey, now the roles are reversed." It took a lot for him not to smirk at her.
"Oh! So polite. I didn't know you had an older brother. Nice to meet you. I am Manuela but I'm sure you already know that!" Manuela chuckled, "Anyhow, once the show is over, allow me to take you kids backstage to meet the staff! It's the least I could after being so kind to me dear." She smiled warmly at Arisa.
"I guess." Arisa said, "Changing the subject, are you here to see someone?" She asked the woman nodded happily.
"I am! I'm here to see my prodigy! Have you heard of the Mystical Songstress Dorothea?" She said and the two nodded, "Ahhh! Good! I'm sure you all will enjoy the show then! Umm, if it be alright, may I sit with you kids? I came alone unfortunately." She said.
And that is how Manuela ended up with them, much to Christian's dismay because the two siblings were originally going to talk privately about information they have gathered.
[-]
The chandeliers held beautiful lights that gave the giant opera room as the people began to take their seats. Dressed in a dark red dress, the young girl took deep breaths to calm herself down before she took the stage. Today was another song, yet also to try a new style of music. Her emerald eyes looked out from a small crack in the curtains. Honestly, she was excited to try this new style of singing as well as music. She looked a bit around almost pouted, till she spotted her idol up on the balconies. Yet confusion filled the face of the 14-year-old when she spotted the two people her idol was sitting with. A girl with a beauty she had never seen, never has seen beautiful colored hair that faded to an ocean like the color of teal. The young man sitting next to the girl, spiky white colored hair and was wearing an eyepatch.
"I wonder what happened to him?" She asked herself as she saw Manuela speaking excitedly with the girl who had a bit of a nervous smile as the older woman was telling her something.
Her eyes wandered back to the silver haired young man, who let go of a sigh, and went to look at the stage. His eye drifted to the curtain and the girl froze.
"No way...there is no way he can see me right?" She thought and that thought was shattered when he sent her an apologetic smile with a small wave.
He-spotted-her. A bit of a panic began to set in her, quickly she left back to center of the stage, taking deep breaths to calm herself.
"Dorothea! It's time!" That's right, that's right.
She is Dorothea! The Mythical Songstress and Diva! Today she shall shine! As the red curtains began to rise, she closed her eyes then opened them hearing the claps of the people at the chair. She took another deep breath, closed her eyes, ready to sing.
The one and only has come
And there can only be one
And at last, I am here
Arisa's and Christian's eyes went wide as they heard the familiar lyrics of a specific song that left the lips of the girl on the stage. She wore a dark red dress with a mermaid type ruffles, her hair curled beautifully as her emerald eyes looked up as she was singing. The music was that of a beat that represented more freedom, like tango.
"We know this song!" Arisa mouths to her brother while Manuela focuses on Dorothea, who was singing and dancing to the song as the orchestra played the instruments.
Standing in the wreckage
The rain, a lullaby
And so I close my eyes
Within this world
If you wish to live another day
You must disguise
As a flower that will captivate
You, I want to believe
But, I cannot believe
Dorothea stopped and turned to the audience, her arms spread as her voice sung out loud, proud and powerful. Her emotions are fully heartedly into the song. Yet...she saw that the teal hair girl mouth to the young man that the two new the song. How was that possible?! Were they perhaps foreigners?
I'm powerless, I'm meaningless, like every scar
But as I cry, tears fill inside
Right through my heart
Through it all, I can hear
Someone whispering "come near"
All that I miss, it's infinite, and so I see
Tomorrow's come, with a new sun
Waiting for me
The one and only has come
And there can only be one
And at last, I am here
Manuela was looking at the two siblings confused because it seemed they got in a bickering.
"Concentrate." She mentally told herself as she continued to sing.
The rhythm of the song was picking up, the drums playing a heavy beat, the audience was wearing up the performance. Then it was faint, but she could hear another voice starting to sing on her own.
And there can only be one
And at last, I am here
There is a part of me
That wants to forgive you
But I will not forget
I can't understand yet
Within this world
If I were to live another day
I must learn this song
And quickly learn to play along
If I want to believe
I just need to believe
Freedom's a lie, even so, I must cross that line
I'll scream it loud, barren, I shout
I'll make it mine
And so I turn away
From the truth that's in my way
Defy the gods, despite the odds
I'll find that light
Something so pure, I'll search the world
Into the night
The one and only has come
And there can only be one
And at last, I am here
Her eyes went wide as she could hear another voice in sync with hers, her own eyes and many snapping up to the balcony her idol was on. The teal haired girl was standing up, singing in perfect sync with her. Manuela had sparkles in her eyes as she watched the once solo song become a duet. Dorothea could not believe her eyes she could not help but a wide grin spread across her as she extended her right hand up towards that balcony, her left hand over her heart, one of the opera lights quickly went over to the balcony, fully showing the girl, but her appearance was different. She knew the girl must have used magic to hide her true appearance. Now it was a girl with dark brown hair and brown eyes. The two singing in sync.
For you, there is always a place
Inside this heart of mine
In this beautiful, vicious world of ours
Where the light hides
Hidden somewhere from our eyes
I'm powerless - I'm meaningless, like every scar
And as I cry, tears fill inside
Right through my heart
Through it all, I can hear
Someone whispering, "come near"
All that I miss, it's infinite, and so I see
Tomorrow's come, with a new sun
Waiting for me
The one and only has come
And there can only be one
And at last I am here
So much emotion was sung that many were watching wide eyes and jaws hanging. The two females could not help but smile warmly as they sung. Their voices as one as they sing the song. Christian could not help but chuckle and smile warmly as he watched his sister sing. It has been so long since he has heard her voice, he couldn't help but let a tear shed.
"Are you crying?" And he instantly wiped it away because Manuela had a damn smirk, "No I am not." He said back as the two females finished singing, the opera house exploded to a loud applause.
The nobles praising the two young women as the opera light faded and the red curtains closed.
"What..what...I cannot believe that just happened ...! Aahhhh!" Dorothea turned to see one of her fellow opera singers run to her and hug her, "Someone that was able to sing perfect sync with you. We saw it! You were having so much fun! The songstress squealed excitedly as the two walked back to the backstage.
"Even I am baffled." Dorothea said, "But...I am still confused. This new style and song were introduced today yet the girl sung it in perfect sync with me. I saw her saw that that man with white her that she knows the song. Perhaps she is a noble from a foreign country?" She said and an older woman who was busy fixing another female's hair spoke.
"Maybe the two are? Manuela seems to know them. By the way, Rebecca, you're up!" The hairdresser said to a woman dressed in purple, who made a mad dash past them.
Dorothea was a bit confused. Perhaps later they will speak.
- 2 hours later -
"YOU HAVE A LOT OF EXPLAINING TO DO! HOW DARE YOU HIDE SUCH BEAUTIFUL VOICE FROM ME! SUCH TALENT AND SINGING! AAHH!"
As much as Arisa loves Manuela, she just wanted the older woman to shut up. Now, what possess the girl to sing? The answer is obvious. Arisa loved the song Here, from The Ancient Magus Bride, so hearing it be sung brought out so much emotion that she could not help but sing out loud. Loud enough that her and Dorothea sung in harmony. Even though she was surprised, she could tell the young girl was having a wonderful time singing with her. Currently, they were walking down the hallways to reach the backstage.
"Oh, she had her reasons." Christian snickered and Arisa decided to get back at her brother.
"Oh, you think I sing well? You should hear Christian. He plays a different variety of instruments like me and sings." She said and her brother looked ready to murder her on the spot.
"Is that so?! Ooh! May I hear?!" Manuela got a bit too close to his face for his liking.
He knew he wasn't going to get out of it and let go of a sigh. Sothis was cackling in their minds. He took a deep breath and began his song, closing his eyes.
Sing with me one last time, for lights sacrifice
Endless dawn came but not without a price
Lost in the waves there glimmers, a pale blue stone
I think of you all alone.
He finished singing and his eyes snapped open when he heard clothing drop to the floor. The three turned to the door leading to the backstage, there, a group of about 6 females all had their jaws hanging open as they stared at the white haired teen. Dorothea being among the group, could not believe her ears. One of the helpers had dropped the clothing they were carrying in shock at what they just witnessed.
"Oh Christian, Arisa~" Manuela said sweetly and both siblings shivered, "Now you two," she gave them a closed eye smile as she put her hands together, "I never would have thought I found siblings that could sing so well~ Now my question to you two," she opened her eyes that held a dangerous glow, "How about joining the Mittelfrank Opera Company?" And the two siblings turned to run but unfortunately did not make it far because that woman warped in front of them at the speed of light.
"Oh, come now! You both have such amazing talent and it would be very interesting to have a male opera singer!" The older woman said.
"Manuela as much as we love singing, we honestly do, but not right now." Arisa said and the woman looked at them sadly, "My brother and I, we're both mercenaries. We want to continue traveling to learn more of the world. We thank you for the offer but unfortunately we cannot." Arisa said to her honestly and the group of females looked heartbroken.
"Lady Manuela," Christian spoke, "We thank you for your offer. But...I have someone important waiting for me. I swore to her that no matter where she was, I would be there for her. It's time I kept that promise and saved my wife." He said and the older woman smiled sadly.
"I understand. You know," she looked at the two, "for being so young, the two of you act so mature. I can tell by your eyes; you have seen many things." She smiled sadly, "If you two ever change your mind, come talk to me. But for now, let me introduce you to the group!" And the three walked over to the group.
"Aaahhh! It's you! The girl that sung in harmony with Dorothea!" One of the maids said to Arisa, who smiled a bit nervously.
"Ohh! And young man, you have such a lovely voice!" The hairdresser said to Christian who smiled at her.
"Hello there." The two siblings looked over to Dorothea, who smiled warmly to them, "I'm Dorothea Arnault, also known as the Mythical Songstress. It is a pleasure to meet you both." The girl said and turned to Arisa.
"I was honestly very surprised that someone was able to sing in harmony with me. I...honestly liked it. It has been awhile since I have sung a duet with someone. What are your names?" She said.
"My name is Christian Hernandez, and this is my younger sister, Arisa Byleth Reus Eisner. But you guys also know her as Kiana Kalsana." He said.
"Wait..." one woman said, "Kiana Kalsana...as in Holy Magus...the one that saved Galatea Territory?" She said slowly as the group of females was processing everything that was just said.
"Here we go again." Sothis face palms in their minds.
"Yes...that's me." Arisa sighs.
"Aaahhhh! It's an honor to meet you! You're very famous among us commoners in Fodlan. Who knew you are actually a mercenary also." Another girl said.
While the girls were chatting up his poor sister, Christian noticed something move from the corner of his eye.
His eye slightly narrowed, and he turned back to the group, quickly creating a mental link with his sister.
"Hey. Keep the woman her-where's Dorothea?" He said and Arisa responded back to him.
"She just went back to her room right now. She wanted her business cards to give to us." Arisa said.
"Arisa, have Manuela called the guards. I'll be back." He said and quickly walked fast towards the backstage rooms.
"Where is he going? That way is towards the rooms." Manuela said a bit worried.
"Manuela." Arisa's voice was serious, "Go get the guards. There is an Assassin here." Was all she said the woman bolted to get the guards while the women were terrified.
Arisa turned her back on them, taking out her dagger. Seems things like to always get interesting.
[-]
It has been a long time since she has felt jealous, maybe even envy towards someone. She remembers hearing the name, Kiana Kalsana among the people in the alleyways, among commoners such as herself. The mercenary that would travel across Fodlan teaching children and adults how to read and write. The girl who would never ask for money in return as she used her medical skills to help people. The girl achieved what she wanted, compared to her who has had to pull a few strings. At first glance she thought the older girl was a noble because of how well she was dressed but then her brother revealed who she was, and you can say, expectations shattered. She thought the girl was an adult. Nope. She was a girl the same age as her! Expectations shattered in an instant even more when they two sung together she never expected her voice to be so...so..so...beautiful!
"Her smile...it reminds me of my mother's..." Dorothea muttered as she sat down, looking at the mirror, looking herself.
At times, she wondered how much she has changed. She has survived kidnappings, attempted murders, all kinds of stuff. She let go of a sigh as she looked back to the mirror and blinked. There was a figure near the corner. She turned and saw no one, she narrowed her eyes. She looked back to the mirror and a hand suddenly covered her mouth. She tried to scream, to thrash around.
"Sorry miss, but by my Lords order, you are to be brought to him." The servant of a damn noble!
She trashed again and tried to bite the hand, but they were wearing gloves. But...
"FLOW!"
"Eh?" She was suddenly not in the hands of the kidnapper but in...
"Hey, you alright?!" She looked up and saw she was in Christian's arms; he was holding her tightly to his chest.
"Damn!" The Assassin gritted his teeth and charged at him, Chris held onto the girl as he took our his own, clashing with the enemy.
Dorothea was terrified as the two clashed, but she felt safe. The Assassin did an upper cut at the boy, towards the right eye, Chris barely moved back but the blade cut the string that held his eyepatch. The young girl gasped as she saw the older boy's right eye. Christian's face went cold as he quickly threw her in the air, and in one swift movement, bending his knees, sending magic into his fist, delivered the punch to the man's git, knocking the air out of his lungs. Foam came out of the Assassin's mouth as he dropped to the ground, cold. With that, Dorothea landed back into the older boy's arms, bridal style, and gently placed her down.
"Are you alright?" Was all he said as he picked up his eyepatch and used magic to fix it, putting it back on.
"Y-Your eye...just...are you even human?!" The girl said terrified, the door to her room burst open.
"Dorothea!" Manuela panted and the guards were behind her.
Christian picked up the Assassin and held him by the back of his neck, handing him to the guards.
"Make sure to check him." He said as the older woman ran to the girl, hugging her tightly.
"I'm okay." Dorothea said a bit shaky as she watched Christian speaking with the guards about what happened.
"Arisa also ended up knocking out a couple of Assassins that were targeting a few others. She had ordered me to go get the guards. She and her brother protected everyone." Manuela said as she turned to Chris, who was down speaking, the guards leaving with assassins tied up.
"Manuela, if possible, I recommend hiring a few guards to watch over the place for the next few days. But, I'm glad you're all safe." He smiled warmly at her.
"Thank you, Christian, for saving Dorothea." Manuela said and he smiled sadly.
"Anytime. I know what it's like to have someone after your life." He said and the girl felt a pang of guilt.
He turned to her and handed her a necklace with a strange symbol on it.
"It's a tailspin made using my magic. It'll keep your protected. Should anyone try to kidnap you or take your life, this necklace sends them an electric shock. Take care kid." He smiled warmly to her and turned to leave.
"Wait Christian!" Manuela said, "You and Arisa aren't staying?" She said and he shook his head.
"I can tell when I am not wanted." He said and the young girl stiffened, "But at the same time, I can't blame them. I'm not the same person I used to be. But even so...I'm glad I had this experience. As a person grows, you eventually mature and see the way of life." And he left out the door.
Manuela looked worried while Dorothea felt guilt fill her as she held onto the necklace.
She...
"Why did you cover for me?"
A question that will be answered years later.
- 1 week later: Late at Night: Vestra Territory-
"We're here." Arisa said as she landed Red Hare in the darkest part of the forest.
She placed her hand on her face and changed her appearance to Himeko once more along with her clothing to that of an Assassin. Chris nodded to her as he did the same but changed his appearance to that of Marth, his clothing was that of a paladin.
"Are you sure you want to take the sword with you?" She said to refer to his Sword of The Creator.
"I do." He said as he glanced over to her, "Thankfully Hubert is not here along with Count Vestra. I got information from one of the taverns that they are currently in the palace. Ferdinand is living there with his father for a while till they finished the rebuilding of the mansion. Apparently, the garden survived." He said and Arisa smiled sadly.
"So, what's the plan?" She said as she used her spell to stance his sight and hers with Feh.
The snowy owl was flying up in the sky, keeping watch and Blanca would stay with Red Hare hidden in the woods.
"Unfortunately for Count Vestra, I know how to get in. Let's say, my time visiting Gina was spent with her and I explored the entire mansion. I know every cranny and nook of this place." He smirked.
Arisa nodded as the two began their mission. They both prayed Gina was still alive.
[-]
Cold.
It was so cold.
She laid dazed on the cold floor, drool coming out her mouth. Her once black amber hair was now pure white, all pigment lost.
"Chris...Hubert..." Not even her brother knew she was alive.
Like many, he believed that she was killed along with her king. Her father offered her so easily to become a pawn. She has suffered so many cuts, so many injections. That fact she was even still alive was a miracle. But no more pain soon... those mages got what they wanted. Two Crest were implanted into her but unfortunately it is too much for her. She has been slowly dying...slowly. Alone in the dark. They were just waiting for her to die and then they would dispose of the body. She heard a small rattle and saw the man known as Myson come in.
"So, you are still alive?" The man said coldly as she only moved her eyes, "Tch. Well, not much time left. You'll be gone in an about an hour. I'll be collecting your body tomorrow. You make a fine vessel for one of the 10 elites." He turned to leave but before he did, "By the way, your beloved king, is no more." He chuckled and left.
Tears began to fall from her eyes as she realized what that meant. He was gone. Chris was gone. Even if she wept weekly, she just wanted to die. She just wanted this pain to be over.
[-]
Perhaps it was luck by their side today. The two were silent as they watched the man leave out the basement door that was underneath the shed. The boy was ready to go on murder spree. How much he wanted to kill Count Vestra with a passion but now was not the time. They waited till the coast was completely clear, they head to the basement door.
"Break." He muttered as he used a bit of magic, the lock breaking.
"Go get her. I'll keep watching." Arisa said as he nodded to her, opening the door, running in.
Cold the place was. Just like he remembers when he was trapped. He held his own dagger as he walked down the stone stairs till, he arrived in a small basement room, his eye froze at a cage, he could see someone laying there.
"G-Gina...?" He choked out as he ran to it, slicing open the door, and dropped to his knees, pulling the woman to his arms.
"Gina! Gina! Oh god please no! I can't lose you!'' His voice cracking as the body was in his arms, cold.
Her eyes barely moved but he saw it.
"Gina...please...please...hold on...I'm sorry...I'm so sorry..." he wept and her lips twitched, using whatever strength she had to touch his cheek.
"Chris...welcome...back...my...love..." and her hand dropped heavily.
"No please! Sothis!" He cried and the goddess spoke.
"Use some of your life force on her. It'll buy us enough time for us to help her. Now go!" Sothis yelled and he did just that.
He quickly stood up, holding her in his arms as he ran up the stairs, praying they make it on time. He made it up, nearly slamming the door open but saw his sister, who's eyes widened in horror.
"Let's go." He choked out and Arisa grabbed him, warping them to the forest.
"Hyaa!" She yelled out as they got on Red Hare and took off for the sky.
"She's barely hanging on by a thread. Sothis, can you tell which Crest were implanted into her?" Arisa said as they were far away now thanks to Red's rocket speed.
"Crest of Lamine and Fraldarius. Unfortunately, both are too much for her." Sothis said as they landed inside a cave at the coast.
"Then what can be done?!" Christian said.
"Like what happened to you." Arisa answered as he had her place Gina down, taking out the bottle that had the blood of Lamine, but also placed a drop of her own blood into it.
"Why did you do that?" He said and she looked up to him as they saw the bottle glowing a bit.
"The Crest of Flames is the mother of all Crest. I used it to enhance Lamine's blood so it can get rid of the Crest of Fraldarius. Thankfully that Crest is cracked and it's a minor Crest." She said as she made the blood float out of the bottle, over Gina's lips.
"Wait." Christian grabbed her wrist, "What if it doesn't work?" He said.
"You can hate me. I'll take on that burden if she doesn't make it." Arisa said and he gritted his teeth as he placed his hand on Gina's stomach.
"Then as the one who also bares the Crest of Flames, I'll help you make sure it works." He said and he looked at her shocked.
"Start you two. I'll guide you through this." Sothis said as she manifested herself, hovering over them.
"Chris, start the healing spell Recover. Arisa, slowly start making Gina drink the blood." The goddess said.
The boy nodded and began muttering the spell, the magic circle with Crest of Flames appeared underneath them. Arisa gently owned the girl's lips, making the crimson liquid slowly go in.
"Chris, change to Heal." Sothis instructed he did that, the chant changing, "Arisa, keep giving it to her at the pace you are now, with your other hand, use Recovery on her." She said and Arisa places her hand over Gina's heart, chanting the spell.
"Keep going." Sothis till all the blood was now gone, "Good. Now, both of you use Physic!" She yelled and the two began chanting loudly the spell, letting their energy flow into the woman, her veins glowed a light blue as the two Crest projected themselves, and the Crest of Fraldarius shattered, the one of Lamine remained. The two teens fell on all fours, panting, never having to perform such a spell that drained them of their energy.
"What...huff...huff...spell was that?" Arisa could barely say as Sothis gave her a sad look.
"It is an ancient Nabatean spell called Mend. I'm sure by the word alone you can already tell what it does. If one person performs it, it would take a great portion of your energy, but if two perform it, it will loosen the burden." Sothis said.
"Hmmmm..."
Gina's eyes slowly began fluttering open, her once dark green eyes were a pale gold as they looked around.
"Gina!" Christian said he quickly held her in his arms, the woman recovering slowly.
"Chirs...?" She whispered as her hand reached out to touch his cheek.
"Yes...Yes! It's me Gina! It's me!" He wept with a smile on his face as he held her hand.
The woman's lip began quivering as he hugged her tightly, afraid to let go. She burst into tears, unable to believe that he was alive. She held him tightly, afraid he was an illusion, but he was real. He had the same scent of ink and Bergamot, his warmth that she always loved. The kindness that he always gave her. Chris moved her head a bit and slammed his lips onto her, taking her a bit of a surprise but began kissing back with the same force. Their teeth chatter a bit together as the kiss was messy yet passionate. His tongue licked her bottom lip and happily obeyed, opening a mouth a bit, allowing his tongue to enter. The two explored each other but it was obvious he was dominating her. She moaned into his lips as her fingers intertwined into his hair, her grip tightened a bit. The two parted, out of breath, staring into each other's eyes, trying to catch their breath.
"I'm home Gina...I'm home..." Chris smiled warmly to her and she hugged her to her chest.
Arisa smiled warmly at the scene but also had a heavy blush on her face while Sothis had covered her eyes with her hands but kept peeking through her fingers. Gina smiled softly as she nodded to him, tears still falling, but also could not believe she was alive. She finally noticed the other girl that was present.
"Thank you..." she smiled warmly to her and Arisa nodded.
"Not just me, but Chris also. We both saved you. I'm glad you made it Gina. I truly am." Arisa said.
"Wait...Kiana?" Gina gasped as she looked up to Chris, who nodded.
"We have a lot of explaining to do, but for now, let's all get some rest." He said and Arisa nodded as she stood up.
"I'll get a campfire set up. By the way," she turned to them with a dead panned face, "if you plan to have sex, I'm sleeping outside." She said and the two other teens felt their blood rush to their face as the girl walked out of the cave to gather some firewood.
Silence lasted for a few minutes before Gina spoke.
"How...how are you alive? How am I alive?" She asked and Chris gently kissed her forehead as their hand intertwines.
"My sister...she saved me...she also helped me rescue you. We...sigh... we've both committed taboos to save the people we care about. I know you have many questions, but I can't answer them all right now. I'll explain as we head to some place safe." He said.
"What about Edelgard...?" She asked, worried.
"Unfortunately, I would even be able to get near her. But...thanks to the spell Arisa taught me, I can...at least send her letters directly to her room, that way she knows I'm alive." He said sadly and Gina nodded.
"I...no...my lord..." she stopped when he shook his head.
"I'm not nobility anymore Gina. I'm just Christian. I'm just Chris now. We're equals." He smiled at her and she chuckled.
"I still love you regardless." The woman smiled warmly, and they kissed softly again.
[-]
How did I live in a kingdom of thieves
And people who say things they don't really mean, really mean
You're only everything I ever dreamed
Ever dreamed of, ever dreamed of
You must be kidding me, did you really think
I could say no
"I'm glad they're back together." Arisa said as she was sitting at a boulder near the ocean waters, looking out to the horizon for the sun set to start its first peaks.
"Jealous?" Sothis smirked at her and Arisa gave her a small smirk.
"I won't lie. I honestly am a bit jealous. I'm glad my brother found someone he truly cares for." She smiled as she took out a piece of dry meat from her bag.
She looked over to the entrance of the cave, where Red Hare was asleep with Blanca sleeping next to him and Feh was perched on one of the boulders, keeping a lookout.
"What will you do now? You still have a couple more months till your birthday. Will you return to Remire Village?" Sothis said.
"Yes. I think it's time to head home, but I want to travel a bit longer. I think both Gina and Chris need it also though I'm most likely going to be the third wheel. I'm sure dad is going to have a heart attack when he sees me return with the two. Maybe I should play a prank on him and say I'm dating both?" She snickered and Sothis rolled her eyes.
"Are you trying to give him a heart attack?!" Sothis glared at her.
"I'm joking. I'm not that cruel." Arisa giggled as she took out her camera and sent a small bit of magic into it.
I want you for a lifetime
So if you're gonna think twice, baby
I don't wanna know, baby, I don't wanna know
Everything is just right
But if you're gonna think twice, baby
I don't wanna know, baby, I don't wanna know
I really don't get what everyone else believes
So why do I say things I don't really mean, really mean
I'm only crying 'cause I never dreamed
It'd take this long, it'd take this long
"Selfie?" She said and Sothis smiled as the girl made the camera float, Sothis hugs her from behind like usual and did a peace sign with a grin on her while Arisa could not help but laugh a bit.
The camera snapped it, catching the moment, the picture revealing itself that Sothia was surprised when Arisa showed it to her.
"How...?" The goddess said, "You were actually able to get me in the picture?" She said slowly as she saw herself with the big grin, doing a peace sign, and Arisa laughing.
"I used a bit of magic. I did some experiments and I found a way for you to appear in the pictures. Of course, that is only if you choose to." Arisa said and Sothis hugged her tightly.
"Thank you! Even if I can't talk with the others, at least, with this, they know I am here. That I exist." Sothis smiled warmly.
The two females hugged and turned to look at the sun set.
"It has been a long time since I've seen the sun..." Gina muttered as she and Chris walked out of the cave, she was wearing a gray dress that Arisa lent to her.
Chris smiled warmly as the two held their lands, the group looking out to the sun.
For the new dawn...has never felt so much better.
I want you for a lifetime
So if you're gonna think twice, baby
I don't wanna know, baby, I don't wanna know
Everything is just right
But if you're gonna think twice, baby
I don't wanna know, baby, I don't wanna know
Don't think twice, don't think twice
Don't think twice, baby, don't think twice
- Months later: Verdant Moon: August 23rd : Midday-
With hair in her usual Chinese buns, Alexandra along with Amir were helping in the sugar cane fields, helping harvest the nest batch. The two girls looked up to the sky, sighing.
"I wonder if she'll be back today." Alexandra sighs as she looked over to the now mountain lion size griffon that was playing with Falco, who had grown a lot also.
"She will. I know it." Amir said and the two girls grinned at each other till they both got smacked on the head not no one other than Anna.
"Trying slack of huh?" The red-haired woman chuckled as she was busy writing down notes.
"Go easy on them Anna!" Ra's voice was heard at the other side of the field, as he was busy with others picking the rice plants.
"Of course not!" The two girls said in union as Anna gave them a smile.
"Usually Florencio would be here but he's taking care of Kaimu. That little kid is a bundle of joy!" Anna squealed remembering the little infant.
"I was honestly surprised when he came back with a child." The three turned as they saw Sandy approaching them, she was dressed in a plain sleeveless shirt and black shorts, displaying her muscular arms, "But, I'm glad he did. He's so much happier being a father now. I'm happy to be an aunt once more." She chuckled.
"I think it's the best decision he made." Anna said as the group turned when they heard arguing again, turning to see Ra and Ili at it again and their daughter Kama, now 7 years old, face palming.
They spotted Dominic, the 11-year-old giving his friend a pat on the back, and the two quickly ran away screaming "ewwwww!" when the adult couple began kissing. The group could not help but burst out laughing till they noticed Falco, Hyper, and Puka stopped playing, looking up to the sky. Even Nuke, who was always asleep under the shade of the trees, looked up, sniffing the air.
"Falco?" Alexandra said and they saw Ares running towards them.
"Arisa's back!" He yelled and everyone in the fields began heading back to the village.
Jeralt was already at the gates, looking up to the sky with wide eyes, seeing that familiar tint of red. They heard a loud hoot, the snowy owl coming into their view. A griffon with black feathers was flying next to her, they could see two individuals on it. Also, an eagle was flying next to them. Elder Bara was silent as a few more minutes passed; the two riders landed. Jeralt felt his breath caught in his throat as the rider of the red pegasus jumped off and stood up straight. Looking at him with the happiest grin he had seen.
"So...she found her peace." Elder Bara smiled warmly as the girl with her usual ponytail wore dark clothing, ran to her father's arms.
"I'M HOME DAD!" Arisa yelled out as she jumped into his arms, Jeralt could not help but laugh as he caught his daughter and spun her around.
It had been a full year since he had last seen her.
"Welcome Home Byleth." He said as he wiped a few tears that were falling from her eyes.
"ARISA!" Two yells were heard, and Arisa screeched as she was slammed/rammed down by Amir and Alexandra, the two hugging her tightly.
Christian could not help but grin as he saw his sister smiling and Gina was grinning also. The girl now had her hair dyed a light red, and wore the clothing of a mage, flowers were on her waist.
"Welcome home!" Amir said as Alexandra were a crying mess.
Nuke walked up to Red Hare and greeted him along with Feh. Confusion filled the Elder wolf as he spotted the timid white wolf pup hiding behind the pegasus.
"(Hello little one. We welcome you to our home.)" Nuke said to Blanca, who came out timidly.
"(H-Hello...I'm Blanca...umm...are you...Grandpa Nuke that Wolf Star talks about?)" She asked and Nuka could not help but chuckle, which to humans was a soft bark.
"By the way, who are these two?" Alexandra said as she ran up to Christian and Gina.
"I'm Christian and this is my wife Olivia. We've been traveling with Arisa these past months and well...she offered to come work with her. Umm! Of course, if we have permission first!" Christian said as Jeralt walked up to them, crossing his arms.
"So, you have been traveling with my daughter? You're a mercenary? What's your specialty?" Jeralt said with a stone face, while Gina gulped.
"Well, I'm a professional grappler and my wife is a mage. We've both been traveling around Fodlan. We've...been through a lot." He said and Jeralt had a small smile, nodding.
"I can tell." He said, "I know by that look in your eye. It's the look of a warrior who has seen the horrors of war. You may be a kid but you have seen many things. It's the same with your woman." He said referring to Gina, "I must admit, you're both a bit young to be married. More towards engaged huh?" He said and Arisa snickered.
"Yeah...um..." Gina blushed along with Christian, who coughed.
"Hahahahah!" Sandy burst out laughing along with many others, as Jeralt shook his head.
"You two will fit right in. But the way, nice griffon. Is the eagle and wolf pup also yours?" Jeralt said.
"Skylar (The griffon) and Kuro (eagle) are mine...umm...Blanca belongs to Byleth." And Christian has never seen Jeralt whip his head so fast towards his daughter.
"You got a wolf pup!?" And once more, laughter filled the people as Arisa shrugged but also burst out laughing.
"I promise to train her properly Dad!" Arisa snickered, "Besides, we got a lot of catching up to do." She grinned as they all headed back to the village.
Jeralt could not help but shake his head as he walked besides his daughter, ruffling her hair. The girl was giggling and had a grin that was worth more than anything.
"You've changed kiddo. It's been a long time since I have seen you so happy. I wonder what happened during your journey?" He said and she grinned to him, her smile reminded him of his wife.
"Haha. She has Sitri's smile." Elder Bara chuckled.
"Sitri?" Arisa said and the elder nodded.
"Your mother's name was Sitri Rosa Eisner. Rosa was her nickname that we would call her by often." The Elder said and Arisa looked over to her father, a bit worried.
"It's alright." He said, "I think it's time you learn about your mother. You look a lot like her when you have your hair loose. She loves reading, flowers, you remind me a lot of her." He smiled warmly to her.
"Enough sad talk!" Kama yelled out, "Its Byleth's birthday! You're officially 16!" She giggled.
"Kama!" Ili said to her daughter.
If you want to take it to an even higher level
All you gotta do is say the word, you know I'll follow
If you wanna take it to an even higher level
I don't, I don't bite
If you want to make it happen, nothing's impossible
All you gotta do is say the word, the walls will crumble
If you want to make it happen, nothing's impossible
Arisa chuckled as she looked over to her friends, smiling to everyone around. She was home. Surrounded by the people she loves. Reunited with her brother. Family. The year she went through high and low, through both good and memorable times, she was happy. Sothis appeared and smiled as she hugged Amir and Alexandra, the girls hugging her back. Cirina appeared and floated over to Florencio, who was holding the little child in his arms. Kaimu could see her, which surprise her greatly. The little boy reached out to her, and gently grasped her finger. The pale girl smiled softly and nodded as she looked over to Arisa, who had a warm smile as she looked up to the sky.
"I'm home. This place is my home."
- Aubin Territory-
"Whoa! Calm down Hessian! Hahah!" Zander could not help but laugh as the black wolf pounced on him, licking his face with excitement.
He was dressed in the clothing of a Lord, his prosthetic arm was hidden by the coat he wore, that no one could tell he lost one. It moved and function properly like a real human one.
"Big brother!" Dimitri and Lestia laughed as Dedue and Sadi walked next to them.
"Hey you four! Glad to see you're doing well." Glenn chuckled as he saw them come.
"So, you're serving Zander?" Sadi said and Glenn nodded.
"If I left this punk alone, I could guarantee this place falls." Gleen said and Lestia snickered at how hurt her brother looked.
"Glenn you wound me!" Zander said as he dramatically placed his hand over his heart.
"Shut up." Glenn said back and Dimitri smiled.
"By the way," Zander turned to the four children, "I'm glad you four are doing well. Kuza is busy in his office working on few magic experiments. Emily was able to help him, and he recovered his vision back. So, it's safe to say I have appointed the man as the head Doctor of this town." He said.
"If I may ask," Dedue said, "how...did the people take it?" He said worried.
"I won't lie," Zander smiled sadly, "there were those that weren't happy but these past months, with the repair and supplies, and Kuza using his medical skills as well connections to help, it's safe to say, the town has welcomed him." He grinned.
"I'm also surprised Lord Rufus let you keep the wolf." Glenn said as Hessian sat next to Dimitri.
"It took some convincing from Emily because she said it was good for our health. Besides, the same case is a bit the same with you is it not?" Dimitri said as they saw a gray owl along with a brown one swoop in and land on Zander's shoulders.
It was Age, Christophe's former owl and Herwig, their father's hunting owl. Lord Lonato entrusted his son's owl to him, and Rufus did the same with his brother's owl. The two owls looked down with judging eyes at the kids and then to Hessian, who cocked his head a bit.
"Yeah." He smiled sadly.
"How's life treating you here?" Glenn said to Dedue and Sadi.
"We still...get these looks but it is to be expected." Dedue said and Sadi nodded.
"But don't worry!" Lestia grinned, "If anyone tries anything on Sadi, I'll call forth my axe!" She said and the little girl could not help but giggle.
Dimitri smiled warmly as and looked towards Hessian and then saw his brother and Glenn arguing again. The next few years will be difficult but...he had something to look forward too.
"I hope to see you again one day Arisa."
I want you for a lifetime
So if you're gonna think twice, baby
I don't wanna know, baby, I don't wanna know
Everything is just right
But if you're gonna think twice, baby
I don't wanna know, baby, I don't wanna know
- Deirdue -
"And I finally got it!" It was a difficult battle, but he was done!
After countless experiments he finally got the results he wanted for the poison he was working on.
"Claude!" And he shivered when he saw Edward heading his way, "Hey Ed...I um...have succeeded." He grinned crookedly as he presented his colorless poison and the doctor groans.
"I told you to not use my science books for your experiments." Edward sighs as he looks at the boy's desk, raising an eyebrow.
"These are notes and books about Fodlan's ancient legends as well as legends behind Hero's Relics." He said as he picked on up in particular.
"The Sword of The Creator...said to split mountains but the earth itself also. Skadi-Ondergoed...said to split the sea...Thor's hammer...Mjolnir...said to split the heavens...I had no idea you were into history." He said as he turned to him, the boy smiled.
"I saw Tharja's daughter, Noire, reading about different legends from different countries. So, decide to pick a few books about Fodlan's legends to learn a bit more history." He said.
"Well, guess it doesn't hurt." Edward said the boy was barely holding back a sigh of relief, "But if you want more books on legends, I got a few." Oh. Oooohh!, "There is this one book I like reading about the Legends of Valentia as well as Ylisse. Then again, you might as well read the Fire Emblem series by Cecilia. There are countless legends of different heroes there." He said as he was heading out the door.
"Hey Edward," Claude said, "but legends are just legends huh? It's not like they are real." He said and Edward turned to him.
"Who knows?" The doctor smiled mysteriously, "You be surprised how much information legends truly have. The valuable lessons they hold." He said and left, leaving the boy in a strange confusion.
"Alexandra said that to me before." He said and turned to look at a bracelet he hands on his wrist, made of green beads.
It was a gift from Alexandra for his birthday.
"Sigh...Teach...Alex...just who are you two really?"
- Enbarr: Palace -
Hey sis, it's me. If you're reading this, it means you made it. I'm sorry I couldn't do anything to protect you or our siblings. I wish I could have done more. Honestly, I want to break into the palace and take you away, but I know I'll be finished off before I even set a foot near your room. I'm alive. I'm doing well. Once a month, you'll get a letter from me. Unfortunately, as much as you wish to respond, you can't. This is also for your safety and Hubert's. Make sure to burn this letter when you are done reading it. Even if I am not besides you physically, I'll always be protecting you. Make sure to keep the necklace I made for you close.
I love you El - From your big stupid brother also known as the idiot prince because of Hubert: Chris.
Tears fell onto the young girl's eyes as she read the letter, her brown hair faded to white. Thankfully no more experiments were done to her because those mages succeeded in getting what they wanted from her. The girl wipes her tears and nodded to the letter, then threw it into the same, watching it burn to ashes.
"I promise...I will do everything in my power to free us! That I swear!" She said as she turned to leave her room.
"Hubert." She turned to her retainer, "We're continuing our lessons. I won't stop, till our goal is achieved." She said and he nodded, the two heading to the library.
"I promise brother, I'll free us. I'll create a new dawn."
And so, the first Arc for this Tale had ended. But just because this Arc is over, a new tale begins. New allies, new enemies, new and old familiar faces. New paths created. Even new dangers ahead. The River of Time shall start the new path.
Kiss me once, kiss me twice, kiss me three times
Cross the line
Don't think twice, don't think twice
Don't think twice, baby, don't think twice
Kiss me once, kiss me twice, kiss me three times
Cross the line
Kiss me once, kiss me twice, kiss me three times
Be mine
Don't think twice, don't think twice
Don't think twice, baby, don't think twice
Chapter 34: Boiled: Part 2: Growing Wings: End
[-]
And that is it! Childhood Arc has ended! Everyone thank you so much for reading this book till now. I am truly thankful for all the support, comments, and even critics to help me improve this story. Look forward to the next upcoming chapters. Once again, thank you all. To future chapters and a new path cut!