All over the street, shinning the old neon
In endless rain, what have you become?
How many times, I want to wake you up
Given you up, go up on my own way alone.
Who are we? How far have we gone?
Let us heal the misery and plant the seed we ever promised
Time is up! Go grab your arms! No matter how hard we have been
we shall fight for-E-ver! Oohhooo~
I hear it from no one. It occurred to me the old world...
It may have said no word.
But I have to keep knowing:
I hear it from no one. It occurred to me in the old world.
It may have no word, but I have to keep knowing~
- Dream -
Dark.
It was dark
The scent of iron filled the air.
Silent.
Pitter patter.
The rain dropped hard.
The sky wept.
The earth wept.
"Where am I?"
Chris was silent as he walked through a dark battlefield littered in bodies all over the place. Soldiers from the Kingdom. Pegasus knights from the Alliance. Armor knights from the Empire. War Monks from Sreng. Wyvern riders from Almyra. Dark Fliers from Morfis. Mages from Albinea. Swordsman from Dadga. Priest of the Church of Serios. The list continues as he continues to walk. He was silent as the path was endless yet...he could see some light up ahead. The sound of clashing was heard, and Chris immediately recognized that color of gold. He ran towards it and stopped when he saw who was fighting who. Covered in blood from head to toes, their clothing had tears and burns. They looked exhausted yet refused to stop fighting.
"Hubert go!" Beleth, or should he say, male Byleth, yelled at Hubert, who was holding his arms an unconscious Edelgard and...a child was in her arms. A little boy with brown hair but had teal colored eyes.
"Byleth, I cannot leave you behind! You are Lady Edelgard's husband!" Hubert yelled as he quickly used a shield to protect himself.
Beleth gritted his teeth towards the forest. Chris immediately turned and felt sick to his stomach as corpses of people as well as soldiers he knew walked the earth, covered in dark magic. The one leading this army of fallen soldiers was Claude. A cruel smirk the Reign Leader had as his eyes glowed red. Black and purple energy surrounded him. The dark version of Failnaught was in his hands. Yet his clothing was a much darker version. That of the Barbarossa class.
"Fallen..." Chris muttered as Hubert took one final look to the army, his eyes landed on Bernadetta, who cried tears of blood as she wailed. Her skin is pale blue.
The black hair man gritted his teeth and warped away. A bit of relief filled Beleth as his friend, wife and son were now gone to safety. He needed to focus. So many things went wrong in this timeline and he did not understand why. This should have been the last one. Everyone was finally able to live yet why? This was number 899. What the hell was going on? But that didn't matter right now. Looks like he will be forced to reset once more if things go wrong again.
"Thank you..." Byleth muttered as he turned back to the Fallen Claude.
"Teach...so long... Unite...I must unite... Where did it all go wrong...?" Claude's voice was like he was possessed, and it was the truth.
He and the others roared as they charged at Beleth. The mint haired man gritted his teeth and roared as he charged forward towards a battle he would not win.
"No stop!" Chris yelled and tried to stop him but all he saw was Beleth screamed in sorrow as he cut down his former friends and students.
- End of Dream -
- Verdant Moon: August 5th -
Chris jolted awake from his bed as he abruptly sat up, panting. His heart drummed fast in his chest; his forehead covered in sweat as he turned to the table near his bed. He quickly served himself a glass of water, gulping it down in a few seconds.
"That dream...was way too damn clear..." he said out loud as he put the cup back down onto the table.
He sighs as he looked over to his left, a bit of sunlight peeking through the cracks of his room, meaning it was barely around 6 o'clock in the morning. He was used to waking up this early but too bad the dining hall is not open yet. He let go of a sigh as he stood up, opening the curtains to let the sun come in. His room is what his mother from the old world would call, a war zone. Books, piles of papers littered on the floor. A couple of pieces of clothing also. His bookshelves were fixed nicely with some of his supplies while another shelf he used for weapons and poisonous bottles of liquids. There was a simple blue carpet on the floor and hanging on the wall next to his bed was a hand carved guitar he made himself. It was sad that guitars did not exist in this world, so he was more than happy to introduce the instrument in this time. He actually hands carved multiple instruments. He looked over to his desk, where a sketch of musket was. That was done by my sister. Arisa has been thinking of only making such a deadly weapon for herself and him. Considering the materials in this world were far better than the ones in their old one, of course the woman was going to take full advantage of such opportunities! Chris admires his sister for being a genius at times but sometimes wished she toned it down because the knowledge they have is very dangerous if they fell into the wrong hands. He let go of another sigh as he stood up and picked up a black shirt from the floor.
"Shit." He cursed when he sniffed it, "Time to do laundry." He sighs as the shirt has a foul smell.
He sighs as he begins to pick up his clothing and throws them like a basketball into the wooden basket he has. To the closet he went and pulled out a simple gray shirt, baggy black pants to move around in because summer was a nightmare here. With clothing on, fixing his hair, putting on his eyepatch, he picked up the laundry basket to head to the laundry room. Time for cleaning.
[-]
It was no surprise to him that the place was calm and empty in the early morning. He liked it. It gave him a sense of sincerity in a way. He continued to walk towards the place, seeing a few cats and dogs here and there. A bit of cat food he had on him and threw it on the grass. He chuckled how the cats immediately ran to eat. Past the dinning and behind the classroom, was the room where the students did their laundry. It was separated for men and women. To the men's one he went and smiled when he heard running water. He knew who it was as he went in.
"Morning Dedue." Chris said and the Duscur man sent him a small smile.
"Good morning Christian. Early as always." He said and Chris nodded as he went to the metal bucket.
In the water he poured and used some wind magic to create the moments inside of a washing machine. It was a lot of clothing and he did not want to do it by hand today. He didn't miss the raised eyebrow Dedue had.
"If I may ask, what sort of spell is that? I have never seen someone use magic for something basic as washing clothing." Dedue said and Chris yawns, but answers.
"Just a wind spell and then changed the commands of it to fit the image I wanted. I use it for washing my clothing. Arisa does the same." He explains and Dedue nodded.
"If you want, I use the spell on your clothing?" He offered and Dedue shook his head.
"It is not necessary. I can handle it." Dedue says.
"Ummm..." Chris looked behind him since both were the same height, "Are you sure about that? Also, why did you bring Dimitri's?" He asked.
"Well...sigh...Lestia told Sadi and I why His Highness was so distraught the morning a few days ago. Let's just say...a broken heart?" And Chris burst out laughing at how Dedue just betrayed Dimitri, he did not miss the small smile on the man's face.
At times like this, he was glad he had befriended the Duscur man.
"I get it, I get it." Chris chuckled, "But still, I think Dimitri should be responsible for his own clothing. If a man cannot clean or cook or take care of himself, then he is going to have a very difficult time in life. My mother was the sweetest woman you've ever met but if she saw you slacking and not doing chores, she come at you with the saddle and PAHCK!" He made the motion of whacking someone, "Of course my ass got off my chair and did my chores. Laundry, cooking, cleaning, and all that. My Ama raised me and my siblings to be responsible." He said.
Dedue chuckled a bit and nodded.
"My mother would do something similar except it was whatever she got a hold of. However, it was our elder brother that would get the burn. Sadi and I were safe." Dedue smiled sadly at the memory.
Chris nodded as he turned back to the bucket, the spinning stopped. He poured out the dirty water and now onto the rinsing cycle it was.
"Say, Dedue." He began, "Do the Faerghus siblings...ever talk about each other?" He asked.
"As of each other?" Dedue said and he nodded, "Yes. Their Highnesses are at each other's throats at times, but they care about each other. At times, I hear His Highness speak of their stepbrother, Chris. It the same with the others." He said.
Chris was silent as he stared at the spinning clothing but smiled.
"That's good. Glad to know they care about their family." He said.
"By the way, so when are you going to talk to Mercedes?"
"Christian, do not speak any more."
[-]
With clothing now hanging to dry, off to Abyss he went. Careful not to stir up anything, he went through a secret passageway he discovered 2 years ago headed to the underground Kingdom. Or as he sometimes jokes, the underworld. He let go of a sigh as he went through the passageway made of stone and bricks. It was hidden behind a thick tree and covered in vines. 10 more minutes of walking through, he reached the place he wanted. Passages lit by the light of torches, a bit of a musky smell because of the water. Different gates closed off with metal panels and such. The giant bridge at the other side he crosses from time to time. He made his way through the shopping area of Abyss, which was a bit cramped. Crates in different places, some even tattered clothes. He saw the vendors setting up their stalls and walked over to the old man that sold produce.
"Hey Jim, got any goods today?" He asked the old man Jim turned to him with a scowl.
"Fa! For them suckers from a merchant today. It's been awhile since I got some good products from Sreng. Look." He said and Chris is just that.
"Oh sweet." He picked up a pink colored fruit with green thin almost spiky leaves, "Not bad Jim! These are called dragon fruits. Expensive in my country but good." He smiled.
"Ha. So that is what they are called. I had no idea. Are they edible?" Jim asked.
"Here." He handed the old man 7 copper coins to pay for it, "I'll buy it. And yes, it's edible. You eat it like this." He took out his dagger and cut the fruit in half, revealing the white flesh with any seeds.
He cut a piece like a watermelon and handed it to the old man. A sniff Jim did and then a bite.
"Sweet but slightly on the bland side. Still good." Jim muttered.
After that, Chris continued to walk around a bit till he reached the Shadow Library. He was still munching on the fruit and finished the last bite. It brought back memories when he took a trip to the Philippines in his old life. He was around 24 years old. He was in grad student back then and wanted to study abroad for a while. He threw the skin of the fruit into a small trash can and entered the library. The place was built more in a cylinder shape, the walls filled with books that Seteth and the Church of Serios hid away. He looked around, seeing a few lit candles and a passed out on the only desk near the entrance was Constance. Chris sighs once more as he walks over to the sleeping girl and gives her a light shake.
"Constance, wake up." He whispered and the girl just swatted him away, muttering in her sleep.
He looked on the desk and saw she was studying magic again. He recognized the handwriting and smiled a bit.
"She must be going to Arisa's seminars." He thought and reached into his bag, pulling out a small jar of peppermint candies, placing it in front of her.
He walked around the balcony and straight to the books he went. He smiled as he took one out one of them about Black Magic. Scriptures written by those of the Agarthans and hell, they were fun to read and very helpful in helping him put together the truth about the past.
"I knew it..." he muttered as he was reading a passage about Loog and Pan.
The text questioned who Pan truly was and mentioned those who Slither in the dark.
"Tch." He clicked his teeth and closed the book, putting it back then getting the other one next to it.
It was an old book that was flattering and read the title.
"The Legend of the 5 Apostles." He muttered and opened it as he began to read it.
"Aubin, Timotheus, Chevalier, Noa, Ernest." He muttered and put the book into his bag to make sure a certain man will not be able to find it.
It was soon going to be time for the arc of the DLC and as much part of him was looking forward to it, there was another part of him that was not. But the choice he is making for this...is one that will be needed. He let go of a sigh when he heard a loud yawn, and then a happy hum. Chris smiled softly as he saw Constance walking up, looking around, then let out a loud groan because she realized she slept in the library again.
"Morning Constance." Chris chuckled as the girl rubbed her eyes.
He noticed she had a bit of some dark circles under her eyes, but it was understandable. She was studying for the Dark Flier exam later today.
"Salutations Christian...I see you are early as ever." She yawns and hummed in delight when he placed a cup of tea in front of her, "So do tell me, what tea are you introducing to me this moon?" She smiled.
"I present to you, Dragon Fruit tea. A fruit that grows in Brigid and Sreng. Sometimes sweet." He smiled as the woman nodded and picked it up.
The pink colored hot liquid made her raise an eyebrow, but she gave it a try anyway.
"Huh." She muttered, "A delicate sweet taste that does not overwhelm my tongue. A gentle scent also makes you feel warm. I like it. What snacks would you recommend going with this?" She asked.
"Well, I guess sandwiches would work. Anyhow, hope this helps you get some energy. Good luck on your exam." He waves as he walks away.
"Ha! Good luck?! Christian, for I am Constance Vo-" he closed the door to the library before she finished.
When he first met the Ashen Wolves, it was not the prettiest way of getting to know someone. He snorted at the memory.
- Flashback: 2 years ago: Imperial Year 1178: February 13th -
Jeralt always avoided the road that led to the Monastery for obvious reasons. He was always instructed to go around it, even if it meant taking the long road.
"Gah! Bloody hell..." he panted as he ran underneath a tree with thick leaves, keeping the rain from soaking him
Currently, Chris was 19 years old. It had been 2 years since he was rescued. Captain Jeralt decided to take him in, adopting him as his own son after witnessing through the years how well he and his daughter got along and worked together. The former captain had also grown to respect and care for him. Many were surprised when Jeralt announced he decided to adopt him. Arisa became a sobbing mess and was beyond happy with the news as she hugged her father tightly. Chris that day was also shocked but also happy. Jeralt reminded him of his father from his past life. Arisa's and Christian's parents from their past life were immigrants from Mexico that crossed the border to the United States for a better life. That is how their parents met. They went through many hardships in life and eventually were able to reach the American dream. A home, a family, that was more than enough. Their past family was not the richest not poorest but were still happy with their lives. Sandy reminded him of a former aunt of theirs. Florencio reminded him of his biology professor from high school. In a way, this world he lived his whole life here, kept bringing back bittersweet memories. Chris let go of a sigh as he adjusted his coat and looked up to the sky. Dark gray clouds and his dumb ass chose to go on a solo mission. He wished he brought Skylar and Kuro but did not want to bring attention to himself.
"It's been 2 years and no luck yet..." he muttered as he looked around the place.
It was the old abandoned chapel of the Church of Serios. The one where...Monica kills Jeralt. Chris had been searching for a specific place for the past two years. Asking merchants and others through his job on the place. Of course, he has only gotten rumors, but it was something. At least some sort of lead. He let go of another sigh but stopped suddenly. He felt a very faint breeze behind him and quickly turned, looking to the ground. He knelt, placing his hand on the ground, feeling just a tab of a breeze. He had a small smirk as he pulled out the dagger Zander gifted him when he was 15 years old and stabbed it into that small area.
"There..." he muttered as he began to lift the stone slab.
It looked like it hadn't been used in years, if not more. Fully now moving it, a shit eating smirk formed on his lips as he was now looking at a stone stair that led underground. Of course, he was prepared if someone tried to attack him, he put on his brass knuckles. He began to walk down and put back the slab, using some magic to make it slide back. With his right hand, he made a small flame light up over his right hand as he walked. The halls were made of stone, cobwebs covered many. Dirt, water, moss littered the floor, he had to be careful.
"Heather...keep track." He whispered.
"On it." She replies in his head as they continue forward.
The musty smell of mud was a bit overpowering and he removed the scarf that he had around his face, so he could breathe better. He continued to walk for another 20 minutes and the place felt like a maze.
"I'm starting to get angry." He muttered as he had put back the scarf and Heather scoffed.
"I see you still have that short temper of yours." She replies.
"Shh!" He suddenly said and she glared but also went silent when she heard the faint sound of weapons clashing.
They could see some light at the end of the stone hallway and quickly but quietly made their way. Once there, the sounds of fighting became very clear. He stood hidden behind the stone wall, peaking just a bit to look.
"HHHAAAA!" The war cries filled the air as swords, daggers, axes and such clashed.
The sound of horses neighing loudly along with pegasus through the air.
"Ghaaa!" A lance was stabbed through someone abdomen and the one responsible was a young 17-year-old with short purple hair, a feminine face with purple eyes, with a bit of the small color eyeliner, and wore the clothing of the trickster class.
The young man pulled out the lance from the bandit, a cold expression on his face as he then spun and did the same to a swordsman.
"Boss!" A boy the same age as him, "We're getting overwhelmed!" He yells.
"Damn it..." the purple haired one cursed, "Balthus! Help the others!" He yelled.
"I'm a little busy at the moment!" a man who looked about 22 years of age yelled as his steel gauntlets tore through a mage.
Black hair combed back, dark colored eyes, big body with muscles, he wore the clothing of a war monk. He jumped in the air and kicked a mage away, then pounded his fist at them, the skull of the mage cracking.
"Balthus and Yuri..." Chris mutters and then the scream of a female is heard loudly.
"CONSTANCE!" Yuri yelled as the female and her pegasus crashed down, an arrow lodge on her shoulder.
Chris did not have a good sight of the girl, but Arisa would never forgive him if he let someone die. His Aura Knuckles appeared in a shower of golden dust on his fist. The girl backed away in fear towards her injured pegasus and screamed as she had her hands up to try and protect herself from an armored knight.
"CONSTANCE!" Yuri yelled and tried to run to her but could not.
All he could was yell in horror as the iron axe was brought down on her.
SCRAAHHH!
Purple eyes went wide as drops of blood splattered through the air, but the blood did not belong to Constance, but to the armor knight. The girl's eyes went wide as a small drop of blood fell on her face, in front of her, the knight fell to the ground dead. The metal of his chest plate was demolished by the person in front her, they're back facing her.
"Shit." Christian muttered as his Aura Knuckles were covered in blood from killing that knight.
He quickly glanced over to the female, who looked at him with wide eyes. Blonde short hair in curls with purple hair underneath. Light purple eyes, a feather fan strapped on her waist. She wore a pink uniform of a Dark Flier, but it was ruined by her bloodied right shoulder where the arrow was lodged. She looked around 15 years old.
"Coco!" Constance quickly scrambled up and ran to the horse running towards her, a woman with slight spiky dark red orange hair, same colored eyes, and wore the uniform of a Valkyrie. About 18 years old she looked.
The red head looked at him confused but quickly got Constance to get on. One looked towards her and she nodded, understanding.
"Hyaa!" She ordered her horse to ride off and they did.
"Hapi..." he muttered and turned back to the group of 7 armor knights.
"Who are you?!" Ah, the leader of the bandits was with them.
"Perfect." He muttered as he crouched mid-way and began sharpening his gauntlets.
CLICK, CLICK, CLANG!
CLANG, CLANG, CLINK, SCCRREE!
Balthus nearly froze as he recognized those sounds and made a quick glance to the man dressed in strange clothing. Chris repeated it two more times and smiled when he heard Balthus order his men to regroup and strike together. Yuri was confused by the sudden change but nonetheless was happy because they were suddenly pushing back the enemy.
"War Monks of all regions are taught a form of code to use in battles. The movement of rasping and clanking together our gauntlets is the way. They are different ways. Never forget them."
Helios' words rang in his head as the metal talons tore through the helmet of another knight, the head ripped off.
SCCRREEE! CLANK! CLANK! ClINK!
CLINK! CLINK! SCREE! CLUNK!
"Formation! Spread out! Defense!" Balthus yelled out and the men and women warriors of Abyss did their war cries and what they instructed.
"Balthus, who is that?!" Yuri hissed as he and his friend were back to back and cut down two archers.
"I don't know but it looks like they are professionals! What he is doing is a code among war monks! And since I am one...well...I understand what the punk is doing. He's taking command and helping us out!" Balthus said back.
"Haaa!" Chris began doing an uppercut at another armor knight, breaking their jaw, then his talons tore through the chest.
"Kill him!" The leader yelled.
"3 left." Chris said and did a quick look around, the enemy was now losing.
TWHACK TWACK! CLUNK!"
"EVERYONE, FINISH THEM!" Balthus roared and the Abyssinians went all out.
"SWARN Z!" Hapi roared a swarm of black bugs devoured 3 mages.
"DARK SPIKES!" Constance yelled and many of the calvary screamed when the dark spikes plunged into them.
"HYYAAA!" Chris went out on the remaining armor knights, slashing at them, armors tore off, no mercy.
The leader began shaking as he tried to run but screamed when Chris had jumped in the air and lunged at him like a beast, his Aura Knuckles tore right through the chest. The sound of gurgling blood was heard, the leader dropping dead, a pool of blood. Chris was silent as he ripped out his talons and grimaced at the small bits of flesh on them, and blood all over them.
"You look horrible." Heather commented and Chris groaned because he was covered in blood from his enemies.
In a way, he literally just bathes in the blood of his enemies. He could hear the Abyssinians cheering that they just won the battle. Thankfully, no one died but there were still many injured. Chris slashed his aura knuckles in the air to get the blood off them then made them disappear in a shower of golden dust. He let go of a sigh and turned to hear footsteps approaching him. But a pair made a run towards the fallen black pegasus.
"Opal! Please! I'm sorry!" Constance wept and Chris went straight towards her.
"Please move." He said and the girl glared at him with her purple eyes with tears, "Please move." He repeated.
The girl growled but moved a bit. He quickly knelt and touched the neck of the pegasus. It was still breathing. He removed his black glove from his left hand, making a magic circle with the Crest of Flames appearing underneath the pegasus. Light green energy softly poured into the animal. Constance squeaked loudly when Opal suddenly quickly stood up, flapping its wings, shaking its head.
"There. She should be fine now." He spoke, "Healed he broken wings as well as the puncture wounds she suffered." He said as the girl quickly hugged her pegasus tightly. Constance wept happily; glad her partner was safe.
"Thank you..." she muttered, and he nodded to her.
Chris placed his hand on her shoulder as the arrow dissolved to dust and the wonder was healed, no scars left. Constance's jaw dropped at this and wanted to ask more about the spell.
"Well, well." He turned to see Yuri walk up to him with a smile, "Thank you very much for saving my friend. It's thanks to you we managed to pull off this victory." He smiled as he stepped about a foot away from him
"Short." Chris muttered and unfortunately, he said it a bit too loud.
"Pfft." Hapi tried to keep herself from snickering at that comment while Balthus laughed.
Constance could not help but giggle also at the comment.
"Hey..." Yuri's eye twitched, "I don't exactly appreciate my height being pointed out. But anyhow, " He extended his hand to him, "I am Yuri Leclerc, the leader here of Abyss. Thank you for helping Constance and us." He smiled and Chris shook hands with him.
"Name's Chris Hernandez. Mercenary and Professional War Monk." He shook hands with him.
"Haha! Nice to meet you pal! Names Balthus! Who would have thought I would meet a fellow War Monk." He grinned but Chris can see he was warry.
He did not blame the man. He had a reward on his head. Chris wasn't that type of person. In his old world, he bought and played the DLC, and he loved it. The Ashen Wolves were his personal favorite characters and he loved how each one was unique. Troublemakers like him and his friends.
"No problem." Chris spoke as he removed his scarf and hat, revealing his face.
He hadn't cut his hair in a while and he sort of looked like Robin except he had a streak of mint hair and an eyepatch that covered his right eye.
"Can't leave kids to fend for themselves. My sister would never forgive me." He chuckled and looked around, "Say...what will happen to these bodies?" He asked.
"Don't worry about it Eyepatch." Hapi says, "The assassins over there will take care of it." She pointed to a group of Abyss assassins.
"I guess that-Wait, Eyepatch?" He turned to her confused as she chuckled.
"It was either that or the Executioner." Hapi smirked and immediately he began groaning.
"Why does everyone call me that?!" He said and Yuri could not help but snort.
"Say whatever you will. But," he crossed his arms, "I never seen you here before. Not many have been able to find this place, much less just appear out of nowhere like a knight in shining armor. Are you with the Church?" Yuri narrowed his eyes at him.
Chris did not miss how Hapi was suddenly on guard along with Balthus.
"Why would I be with a Cult?" Chris said and everyone in the place gawked at him calling the Church of Serios a....cult.
He can already hear Arisa saying that Rhea wants to know his location.
"Pfft...Hahahahahahaha! Ohoho! Hahahahaha!" Balthus, Yuri and Constance looked at Hapi like she had gone mad because that was the first time, they had ever seen her laugh so much.
The red head laughed and wiped away her tears as she walked up to him, patting his shoulders.
"This is the first time I have ever heard some so openly insult the church! I like you. Names Hapi. And thank you for saving Coco." She grins at him, "But for now, let's get you clean up. You need it." She pointed to his clothing.
"Perdon, sorry." He chuckled.
"You are a foreigner? I never heard that language before?" Constance said and he chuckled as they began walking towards one of the hallway entrances.
He looked around and noticed the four giant statues around the place and he knew exactly where this was. It was where the battle against the mercenaries took place as well when Aelfric first revealed himself. He had to keep himself from nearly grunting at the thought of meeting the man. His first impressions of Aelfric when he was first revealed, it was an automatic "he is the bad guy" situation. The man gave him Kirie Kotomine vibes and he did not want to get stabbed in the back. Another plan he had was hoping he could find the body of Sitri Eisner as well as get his hands-on books from the Shadow Library. But first and foremost, make the Ashen Wolves his allies.
"Say," Yuri's voice made him snap out of it, "out of curiosity, how did you lose that right eye of yours? Not often we see someone with an eyepatch. Might as well entertain us for our hospitality for letting you stay here for a while." He voiced and Chris raised an eye at him.
"You're actually letting me stay for a bit? Me? A stranger that could potentially stab you in the back. Kid, you remind me of someone I used to know." Chris replies with a small smirk as he puts his hat back on.
"It's the least we can do to for save our asses over there. Still...I never seen so many bandits as well as mercenaries show up." Yuri muttered as he glanced his way.
"I know what you mean..." Chris said a bit lowly and Balthus noticed a slight change in the white haired man's demeanor, "Chaos is starting..." he muttered and his right hand balled into a fist.
Yuri did not voice it but Christian to him looked familiar. He wondered if he was someone from the Kingdom he saw before he left House Rowe. Only time will tell if he could gain the mercenary's trust. But he knew it would not be easy. He was difficult to read.
About 20 more minutes of walking and they arrived at the main central area of Abyss. Balthus chuckled at how flabbergasted Chris looked as he stared at the place.
"Welcome to Abyss, pal!" Balthus laughed as he smacked Chris's left shoulder.
Unfortunately...
"Aaarghhhh!" Chris yelled in pain as he knelt, breathing hard as he has his right hand over his shoulder.
Nobody missed the loud POP sound. The injury he suffered from two years ago left his shoulder dislocated but seems Balthus's sudden smacking forced the bone back into place.
"Whoa! Uh...sorry about that pal...Hold on. Let us use some healing magic on you." Balthus says as he places his right hand on Chris's left shoulder, a faint green light glow from his hand.
Chris could not help but have a soft smirk as he looked up to Balthus.
"Thank you. Truthfully, you did not injure me. My left shoulder has been dislocated for 2 years and well...that smack forced the bone back in place." Chris answered.
"Two years?!" Constance screeched as he was helped up, "Why would you hide such injuries for so long? Are you some sort of runaway?" She exclaims and Chris chuckled as he patted her head with his right hand.
"Not really." He smiles warmly.
He did not miss how Constance blushed and that was his cue to be careful.
"Well, glad I could help?" Balthus chuckled nervously.
"Hey, no worries man. I'm just glad it was you and not my sister or else she whoops my ass if she found out I hid this from her." Chris chuckled nervously at the thought of Arisa's wrath.
Down the stairs way they went, and Chris felt like he was almost looking at the old school towns of New York. Abyss in real life looked way bigger and not to also mention the people around the place. Many of the residents greeted the Ashen Wolves since they knew them but gave Chris suspicion looks. He did not blame them. He really did look like an executioner. They continued to walk till they reached the residential area, where the dorms were. The hallways were lit with lamps and it had a bit of a home-y feel to it. The males stopped in front of a wooden door and Yuri turned to Chris.
"Here's the showers. Get yourself cleaned up. You reek of iron. You do have a spare change of clothing, right?" He asked and Chris nodded.
"Yeah. And thank you." Chris said as he went in and closed the door.
Yuri and Balthus turned to leave but then the older man realized something.
"Hey, you forgot to tell him there is only cold water in the showers." Balthus says and Yuri smirked.
"No worries. I'm sure he figured it out right about...now." and sure enough, Chris's voice was heard loud and clear 2 minutes later.
"HIJO DE SU REPUTA MADRE! NO MAS AYE AGUGA FRIA! WHAT THE FUCK?!" Chris cursed loudly.
Yuri was snickering while Balthus had burst out laughing at the poor man's demise. Even if they did not understand the first two sentences, they knew he was cursing.
[-]
"God Damn it!" Chris cursed as he was shivering from the cold-water bath he had to take and used fire magic to warm himself up.
"Hahah! Not surprising those kids except the hunk, will pull a few tricks on you. Still..." Heather looked around and grimaced, "The conditions here are poor. There may only actually be cold water. That fact that some form of this technology is called plumbing, is good. However, it looks like it's in a bit, if not, bad shape." She says as he changed into a black t-shirt, black baggy pants that are easy to move in.
He threw his bloody clothing into his other spare bag as he put on his shoes. Strapping back onto his waist his dagger along with his sword he got from Anna, keeping it in the scabbard. The hilt was a golden color, with a curved part on the hilt. He let go of a sigh as he combed his hair and made it spikey like usual, like in his past life. He could not help but stare at his own reflection. The young boy that everyone knew as Chris von Hersvelg was no more, but a mixture of Christian Hernandez and the Prince of Aderstia. He almost did not recognize himself. His right eye was still like a ghoul and at times he had this urge of bloodlust. His hair is no longer brown but permanently white with a single streak of mint hair. Scars all over his body from those days of experiments. He sighs as he puts on his eye patch. He misses Gina and wants to go back home to Remire village. The two got married last month and it was the happiest day of their lives. It still is. He touched the wedding ring he had on the finger of his right hand and smiled softly. He hopes in the future the two could start a family. No longer bound by their roles of nobles. But he frowned as he looked back to the mirror. He still plans to ruin the plans of the Agarthans. He still wants to save his sister, Edelgard. To free her of her fate of death. He needs to reconnect. He needs to get his connections set. But first...
"I need to fix the damn plumbing because this is un-fucken believable. I knew Abyss didn't have the best the conditions but...fuck...No manches Rhea..." he sighs and picked his bag, leaving out the door.
He decided he wanted to stay for at least a month or two here to get an idea of the layout of the place as well as try and improve the conditions. If Arisa were here, he knew she would have gone crazy to do what she could. Out he walked out of the shower room. As he walked around a bit, he noticed there were students of the academy with the uniform of the Ashen Wolves. Some were whispering about him, but he paid no mind to it.
"Yo." He turned as he heard footsteps and saw Hapi along with Constance.
It was funny seeing a mini Constance with the uniform she wore, looking like a little princess with her feather fan, "Yuri-bird wanted me to show you to the classroom where we want to talk to you." Hapi explains and he nodded as he followed them.
There was silence till Constance spoke.
"I must say, thank you for saving me. Be honored that I, Constance von Nuvelle, you have earned my gratitude for saving my life! Once the glory of House Nuvelle is-!" She screeched when he suddenly swung her over his shoulder like potatoes.
"And I am not going to go through that earful." Chris said as Hapi chuckled.
"Unhand me you peasant! How dare you swing me over your shoulder like I am some sort of bag of produce!?" Constance yelled as she swung her legs fast, but Chris just held them down.
"Yesh. You remind me of my little sister. Somehow I think you two would get along if you met." Chris grumbled as he was referring to Lestia.
A few more minutes and they arrived at the rundown classroom of Abyss. A few tables were set up, but many were overturned. A few piles of broken chairs as well as the chalk board up front along with a dusty old desk. Going in, Chris saw Yuri talking to someone along with Balthus. Immediately, Chris knew he was screwed. He quickly put Constance down and looked back up to see the one person he did not want to meet. Hey really was trying to stay clear of him.
"You must be Christian. Thank you so much for saving Constance as well as leading the group to safety. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Aelfric. The Church has granted me custodianship of Abyss." Aelfric bowed to him.
"Nice to meet you. Names Christian Hernandez. I am a War Monk and mercenary. I apologize if I suddenly caused any disturbance. I couldn't just stand by and watch the kids kill themselves defending this place." He said.
"Kid?!" Balthus gawked, "You look younger than me." He pointed at him.
"Balthus, you act like a damn 13-year-old. Get your act together like an adult then I'll take you seriously. " Christian bluntly said and Yuri snickered.
Aelfric chuckled a bit.
"I see you get along well with my flock. Once more, I thank you. If there is a way to repay you, please do so." Aelfric smiled.
Chris knew Aelfric was a kind man but as his years went by for his obsession of bringing back Sitri, well, things went downhill from there.
"If it be alright," Chris began and Hapi raised an eyebrow, "I wish to stay here in Abyss for rest. Two or three months at most. Of course, I know staying here is not free. I am more than happy to work to earn my place here. As well as helping defend the people here. And, if you like, I could teach the kids. I used to be an instructor in the Kingdom as well as The Empire." He said and Yuri quickly uncrossed his arms.
"What? Instructor?!" He said and Chris pinches the bridge of his nose.
"Okay, let me put it in the simple way. I am the older brother of Kiana Kalsana, who is a Holy Magus." And that sent the Ashen Wolves into frenzy and Aelfric looked at him with wide eyes.
"Kiana Kalsana?! She is famous among the commoners of Fodlan. I never would have thought I would meet such a person. Very well, I will allow you to stay here for the time being. Once more, I am grateful." Aelfric smiled.
"No worries. Well, as my first job as a thank you all, " he looked over to Yuri, "think you can take me to where the pipes connect? I'm still pissed about you not telling me no hot water runs." He said Yuri chuckled.
[-]
The catacombs of Abyss were huge to say the least. Tunnels, halls, and such. Some led to rooms and others to some abandoned places. Others led even deeper to the unknown places. Yuri held an oil lamp to light the way as Chris had a small goldfish made of fire swim around them. He noticed Yuri staring at the fire fish with an amazement and chuckled.
"First time seeing such a way of using fire magic?" He smiled and Yuri nodded.
"It is. I didn't even know it was possible." Yuri said as they continued to walk.
"How deep are the catacombs?" He asked.
"Who knows? Some say this place has been here longer than the monastery. For all I know, it is possible that Abyss is an entire ancient ruin." Yuri smirked as they continued.
"How are you holding up? I saw your reaction when I said I am Kina's brother." He says.
Yuri turned to him with narrowed eyes and spoke.
"So, you know I'm suspicious of you? Good, I'll get straight to the point." Yuri turned to him, "You suddenly came out of nowhere, gaining the favor of many for saving Constance. Acting like some knight in shining armor. What is more," looked over to the dagger on his waist, "only nobles from the Kingdom are gifted those daggers from the royal family of Blaiddyd. Suddenly saying you are the older brother of Kiana Kalsana. I have seen her from afar and you two look nothing alike. Who are you?" Yuro hissed at him and Chris only had a blank face.
"You're Count Rowe's adopted son. Figured." Chris sighs as he crossed his arms and Yuri's eyes only narrowed more, "I speak the truth. Kiana, and do used to look similar but an accident occurred. I'm sure you're not blind to see all those scars I have on my arms, now huh?" He motions his arm bit towards him, "I wasn't born this way. I survived...a hideous and cruel experiment in the Empire. I was barely able to survive thanks to my sister." He explained.
"Hapi was making comments about the scars as well as your eyepatch. So, human experiment? I heard that Lady Cornelia was involved in something like that." Yuri says.
"Ohoho! You don't even know half of the horrible things she's done." Chris thought as he smiled a bit.
"Anyhow, Yuri continued. I'll get my answers. For now, we're here." Yuri said as they stopped at an opened area filled with rusted pipes that covered the walls.
"Oko!" Chris yells a bit and the fire fish spit into multiple to light the place up properly.
Yuri could stare with wide eyes as the white-haired man walked to the pipes and touched one, removing a bit of rust.
"Figured...the pipes are made of umbral steel...as well as arcane crystals. No wonder all these pipes are here. Covered in rust but they could still work." He turned to walk to a different part of the room which had a few looking steampunk switches with names engraved on the metals.
"Fountain...rooms... showers...these label the pipe system. This is a bit of Nabatean and Agarthan technology. Good. " he thought as he recognized a form of technology from his old world.
It a huge version of an antique water heater that was connected to the huge maze of pipes. He noticed a dark red crystal in the center of it and knew it was made as a magic tool. He used to work as a plumber as a part time job in his college days and learned how to do it from his father. Arisa sucked at it and was banned by their father to never even try to fix the sink again. She made it explode when she tried to fix it. At least he could do it. Chris put down his bag and opened it, inside were the tools used for plumbing. He had these forged by Rensen as a request. Chris felt an old part of him was returned when the old man was done with the tools.
"Yuri," he turned to the boy, "make sure to tell everyone not to even go near the showers." He turned back to the water heater with a smirk, "I'm fixing this bad boy up."
- 4 Days Later -
"It has been nearly 4 days since we have talked to him and that fact no one has been allowed to use the showers?! I need my daily shower Yuri!" Constance stomped her feet.
They were in the Ashen Wolves classroom. Aelfric had to return to the surface due to work so like usual, the Ashen Wolves were left in charge of watching over the place.
"Say," Hapi spoke as she sat on a chair with her legs up on a desk, "the new guy, I like him. Despite I admit he's a bit suspicious, I'm glad he isn't part of the church. I was surprised by the insult he threw but I welcome it." She smiled as Balthus grumbled a bit.
"I like the guy but I'm still not over him calling me a kid." Balthus grumbled.
"That's because you are." The other three said together and the man slumped.
"Sigh...whatever he is doing over there, I hope it will be something worthy of waiting for. He looked quite overjoyed when he saw that system of pipes." Constance muttered as she looked over to Yuri.
"What are you doing?" She asked.
"That dagger he carries, it's from the Kingdom. Only those of the royal family of Blaiddyd are given those. Areghh...he looks familiar. I saw him before I came here! Just...where?" Yuri growled as he crossed out names on a piece of paper.
"Yo." The group turned to see Chris come in through the entrance covered in soot, rust, dirt, and but a joyful expression, "The showers are ready to use and I think you guys and everyone will be happy." He grinned.
The group looked at each other confused but followed him to one of the sinks in the dorm. He turned the faucet on, and clear water came out but then he turned the knob on the left side and the water became steamy.
"Wait...did you...is that...HOT WATER?!" Constance yelled out and touched it but hissed a bit since it was hot.
"Careful kid." He chuckled and turned it off, "The pipe system also has a way to filter the water. You now not only have hot water but also clean and drinkable." He said, "Honestly, that system was a pain in the ass to fix but good thing I got it to work and fix it. The reason I did not have anyone use the showers or any of the sinks was because the water was contaminated. Had to make sure the dirty water was all flushed out before anyone even tried to drink or shower. At least now, with the pipe system fully memorized and fixed, Abyss is now free of contaminated water." He said and Yuri looked at him with wide eyes.
"Still, I won't be around to maintain it once I'm gone so is there anyone here you recommend, I could teach them how to fix and maintain the system? One of them has to be a mage." Chris said while Hapi raised her hand.
"There are a few you could teach. They specialize in fixing a few things here." She says.
"Okay, that's good." Chris smiles.
"Ughhhh!" Constance grimaced as she smelled him, "You smell horrendous! Go, go! Do not dare come near me till you smell like the morning breeze of flowers! Shoo! Shoo!" Constance pinched her nose as she swats her hand at him.
"Have to agree. And all of us need a shower." Balthus said and before Chris could figure what just happened, the two males hooked their arms around him and pulled him away.
[-]
"The Goddess of Fodlan has smiled down at us today! It's been a long time since I've had a hot shower!"
Chris let out a groan as he stood under the now hot running water shower, making sure his eyepatch was on. He was in one of the shower stalls, but he didn't want to risk Yuri or Balthus trying to sneak a peek at him.
"Ara, ara, ara! Let me see! I want to see the hunk of man." And Heather here being a thirsty hoe.
"No." He sighs as he washed off the suds of soap off his body, the water a murky brown because of all dirt.
"Hey, you alright pal? You've been awfully quiet." Balthus comments and immediately Chris puts the lock on the stall door.
"Yeah I'm fine. Just thinking about a few things." Chris says.
"Understandable. By the way, who trained you the ways of a War Monk? The movements reminded me of the ones of Kupala as well as Almyra and Sreng. It's been awhile since I saw such movements." Balthus says as he let the water pour down on himself.
"Traveled from here and there. Been crazy at sometimes. Kupala I've never been too but I think I prefer to respect the privacy of the clan." Chris says and Balthus stopped.
"Respect?" Balthus muttered.
"Yeah." Chris says as he leaned on the doors crossing his arms, "I don't like how the people are targeted and worst of all, I know there are people out to harm them." He said referring to Balthus' step-mother, "I traveled near the area with my sister and her group...killed group bandits that were instructed by some noble hag to hunt the village down. Like hell I'm letting innocent people get caught up in something like that!" Chris growled.
That event took place last year. It was not pretty, and he and the rest were more than happy to take down the group. Fiona was beyond grateful and had asked the others to stay back while she went to check on the village. Balthus chuckled a bit and spoke.
"Hey, thanks." Balthus said and Chris nodded.
"No problem man." Chris replies as he wrapped a towel around his waist and opened the door to get out.
"By the way have you..." a frozen look on his face as he stared at Balthus and the man was staring back at him.
"Whoa!" Blathus was staring at his chest, where there was this huge scar that looked like something was pulled out from the chest, spreading out like thorns, "What happened?! I only saw such terrible wound marks when someone was turned to a b-!" Chris shoved a towel in his face and quickly turned.
"Cover yourself first!" Chris yells as his face was bright red after unfortunately seeing Balthus's size.
"Jesus Christ...he's huge..." he groans.
"As I was saying," Balthus said as he finished wrapping the towel around "those scars. I have seen them before. Humans that are turned into beasts when they use a relic without the correct crest. Did you...?" He said.
"No." Chris said coldly as he turned to Balthus, "I was forcefully implanted with a Crest stone. My flesh cut open. Liquids injected into me. I could not save them and failed to protect my other siblings. The only reason I'm still alive today is because my sister managed to stop me from nearly becoming a monster. That is why I am a mercenary. I'm not going to let the ones that did this to me do it to others. I will stop them. One way or another." He said coldly.
Balthus froze at how coldly then spoke and chuckled a bit. The cold expression on Chris was replaced with a slightly embarrassed one when the man patted his head.
"Sorry pal! Didn't mean to hit a taboo subject. I'll refrain from asking more questions for now. Still, glad you lived. And if you need someone to help you kill those bastards, well, I got your back!" Balthus grinned at him and Chris couldn't help but smile a bit.
"Thank you. By the way, where's Yuri?" And Chris' face became void of emotions when Balthus quickly tried to change the subject.
"He's in my room, isn't he?" And Balthus slumps, defeated.
Chris was going to have a word with that punk.
[-]
It was a simple room. A bed, a desk, a closet but still big enough for 2 people. Yuri looked through Christian's belongings (not that he had many), looking for information on who he really was. He pulled out a slight worn out black journal and opened it, blinking multiple times at the strange paintings? The images were far too clear and realistic, and he wondered if this was that thing called a picture that he heard rumors about. Yuri was silent as he looked at one image specifically. It was a young boy with brown hair and violet colored eyes, his hair was longer, tied in a ponytail. He recognized the image of the royal children of Faerghus, the brown hair boy standing next to them with a grin. A girl with strange brown hair that faded to teal, a closed eye smile she had as she was hugging the twins. Next to the brown-haired boy was a girl with brown and violet eyes like him. Red ribbons she had on her hair. He looked onto the next picture and it was a little boy around 2 years old with green hair, giggling as he pulled a lock of hair of one holding him, a man with long purple hair that was the same shade as Bernadetta's. He recognized it was Florencio. One of the few that treated him equally. He taught him faith magic. The next picture was one Christian dressed in simple yet clean clothing and a woman with light red hair, dressed in a long white dress with long sleeves. Obviously, Yuri figured out he was married because of this. However, the next picture was a small painting about the size of a small book, but it still had many details. Two adults dressed in Adrestian royal clothing and 11 children all sat or stood together. Yuri wondered and then noticed there was something written in the back of the painting.
Imperial Year 1172: Wyvern Moon: Family Portrait -
"Are you done?"
Yuri never whirled around so fast in his life and his eyes met a very furious Christian who was dressed in a white shirt and black shorts, but still wore his eyepatch. Chirs had his arms crossed as he glared down at the young boy. Balthus came running in at the side of the door, panting.
"Sorry..." the man gasped for air and Yuri knew that Balthus had tried to stop the white-haired man from coming but failed.
"I need to turn this around quickly." Yuri thought.
"I think not." Yuri smiled as he motioned Balthus to leave, and closed the door, "I have never seen so many pictures. It's clear they are that loved ones but..." he held up the one of the imperial family, now putting these together... you are not exactly who you say you are? Isn't that right..." Yuri walked up to him like a snake ready to strike, "Chris von Hersvelg? Or should it be von Blaiddyd? Hmmm?" He smiled.
Chris knew Yuri was smart, but he did not expect the punk to go through his thing so early on. Then again, this is real life now. The white haired gritted his teeth and snarled.
"Get out." Was all he said.
"Fine fine. But just so you know..." Yuri walked past him with narrowed eyes, his head tilting back a bit, "this isn't over." And with that, the door closed.
Chris was silent as he looked over to his bag. He picked up his journal and closed it.
"What the hell..."
- 1 month later -
"Okay, what on earth is going on between you and Christian?"
Constance glared at Yuri who was reading a book about battle tactics. The purple haired boy became a bit tense and turned to her with a bit of a frown. The only form of communication Christian has had with Yuri is when he is teaching him faither, reason and swords,
"Nothing is going on Constance." Yuri replies.
"That's a lie." Hapi said suddenly and Yuri raised an eyebrow at her as she continued, "The shadows say you two got in an argument." She says.
"Wait what...Shadows?" Yuri raised an eyebrow at her.
"Yes. Chris said that my Crest allows me to manipulate the shadows to my will. I have been able to hear their voices since I was a squirt, but he taught me how I can use them to my benefit." She answered.
"I've been able to control plants!" Constance smiles proudly as she crosses her arms, "Christian is very knowledgeable. Too knowledgeable at times." She frowns, "It is indeed strange, but I can't help but feel I met him before. Hmmm...perhaps I should ask him?" She says.
"Your guys choice, not mine. And yes, I too think he knows too much." Yuri says.
Hours passed since their conversation and Yuri felt he should talk to Christian. It was obvious the man cared for the people here and he has proved it over these past months. Yuri felt Christian's eye could look through the very depths of his soul. There were stories that Kiana Kalsana had the very same eyes. Ones that could look like they were looking at the very depths of someone. He shivered. Honestly, his own impressions on the former royal prince are different from what he was expecting. Back when he used to live in the Kingdom as Count Rowe's son, he heard the ramblers and curses the count spat about the royal children. Especially the two older princes, despite they had no Crest, they were seen as major threats. Prince Zander because he was well liked and proved he was worth becoming a general at age 15, alongside Glenn. Prince Chris was well known for his specialty in politics and new ways to help people. Not to mention well known instructors. Both supported the political reform King Lambert was going to do. Less power for the nobility and more help towards the citizens. Then there was Count Rowe who held a deep hatred towards House Zoltras. Despite that house had no Crest, they held power because they helped found the Kingdom and have served the royal family for many generations. Emily along with her husband, Erik, from House Charon were threats.
"Huh?" Yuri stopped as he saw the white-haired man at the end of the hall, a look of shock on his face.
Yuri narrowed his eyes as he decided to follow him. Something was up, he knew that much. Twist and turn the game of cat and mouse began for a good 3 to 4 hours and Yuri knew they were going much deeper into Abyss. If he wasn't careful, he could get lost. Christian looked like a ghost in the dark as he followed behind him. He also carried a small lap to light his way.
"Where are you leading me?" Chris suddenly spoke and Yuri stopped.
There was no one in front of him yet it seemed like he was talking to someone. Yuri remembers from the information he gathered that the fourth adrestian prince was said to have been born with the sight to see beyond the realm of the living. To be able to spirits and fae that could not be seen by the normal human eyes. If that was true, then Yuri was pretty damn sure that Chris right now was talking to a ghost. He shivered.
"Yuri, come out. I know you're following me." Chris sighs as he looks down the hallway and says the boy came out smirking.
"So, you knew the whole time huh? But seriously, what are we doing here so deep? Dig too deeply and your head will fly." He says he walked up to him.
"I know that. But seriously, if you're going to follow me, don't do it in an area where there are a lot of spirits. Still, better stay next to me if you don't want any Fortryde to latch onto you." He says as they continue to walk.
"The only reason I know what that word means is because I read that Faerghus once used to practice necromancy." Yuri says as the two walks next to each other.
He noticed that every 30 minutes, Chris would throw a figure of a dragon made of sugar onto the ground and light it on fire.
"By the way, why does sugar fall on fire?" He asked.
"It helps clear the paths we are walking from negative energy and also to keep any evil spirits or fortryde from trying to latch onto us. Come on." Chris says as they continue ahead.
"Who are we following?" Yuri says and Chris sighs.
"A spirit. It's a female but they have no face. I can only see their outline. Based on it, they have at most 2 more years till they can pass on. The soul is long gone so if you tried to bring back from the dead, they would only be able to talk for a few minutes at most and that is it. Whoever they are, they are lead-hold up." The two males stopped in from a huge grand door, the symbol of Serios on it and one Yuri had never seen before.
But Chris knew that second symbol very well. It was the Crest of flames. They heard the door creek a bit and both bolted to a different hall to make sure they were hidden. Chris even went as far as putting a barrier around him and Yuri to make sure their presence was not seen or heard at all. They two were tense and silent as the giant door opened, Aelfric stepped out. A sad look was on his face as he closed the door and left. 10 minutes passed; Chris made sure to wait that long just in case.
"Coast clear..." Yuri muttered and the two stepped out, "What was that? Why was Aelfric here?" He asked.
"I thought you knew. After all, you work for him, don't you?" Chris smirked as he crossed his arms.
"Huh? So, you figured that out then. Then you know he has ordered me to keep an eye on you." Yuri smiled.
"So, I'm assuming you told him about who I am?" Chris frowns.
"No. I didn't go that far." Yuri frowns, "I'm sure you have your reasons for hiding who you are. But I want an explanation. You've earned the trust of everyone here in Abyss. You've helped my people with no hidden intent. Why are you here?" He asked and Chris sighs as he turns back to the door, a distant look in his eyes.
"One, I genuinely want to help the people here. I don't agree with the way Rhea runs things. I'm sure you can agree to that since you work for her also." Chris says as Yuri narrows his eyes.
"You're entering dangerous territory." Yuri almost snarled at him.
"I know." Chris says as he looks his way, "But that doesn't stop me." He smirked.
"Ha!" Yuri laughed a bit, "Bit of a rogue now huh? No, scoundrel is more of a way to describe you." He says.
"Haha." Chris chuckled, "Being a scoundrel runs in my blood. I know what it's like to live in the shadows. Be spit and all. Even doing dirty work." He referred to past life.
"Huh...didn't think a prince like you would say such words." Yuri says a bit surprised, "I don't trust you completely, but you've earned my respect at least." He smiled and the two turned back to the door, "So we're going in?"
When they opened the doors, what they saw in there, changed many things.
- End of Flashback -
[ Current Time: Midday]
"Argh!"
Many gasped as Dimitri was knocked back, barely holding his ground against Christian. Edelgard and Lestia were frozen as they watched Chris spin his lance left in right rapidly then stopped it horizontally with both hands in front of himself. A large gust of wind was created, and Arisa was silent. All students of all three houses were in a seminar being taught by both Chris and Arisa. Of course, Chris accepted sparring sessions, and many were getting crushed but Dimitri it was being more brutal.
"Crush your opponent with attacks and time your fatal blow for the exact moment when they show weakness." Chris said as Dimitri stood back up, nearly glaring at him.
"You're hopelessly inadequate in the fundamentals. You're far from ready facing me or any true enemy." He says as Dimitri roared, charging at him.
Behind Chris, Leonie came at him along with Ferdinand. Chris smothers twisted his body as the three thrusted their training Lance's at him, like a triangle, yet their eyes went as he twisted then jumped in the air, back flip he did. He landed mid-way crouched, his legs apart, his lance aimed at them, vertically.
"Integrating different techniques is essential to a good fighter, but you all simply willed everything together recklessly." He says as Ferdinand came from the left and Chris threw his lance in the air, and used martial arts to disarm him, threw him to the ground.
Ferdinand groans as he lands on his back, and flops down as Chris caught the lance again.
"I surrender..." Ferdinand groans.
Leonie charged but the same process was done to her. The female groans as he chuckled but spoke.
"Your moves have only form instead of the essence." And quickly bent backwards when Dimitri's lance swiped at him.
"Take him down. Make him kneel." Patricia's voice snarled in his ear.
Dimitri charged at Chris once more, but everyone's eyes went wide as all the man did was catch the tip of the lance with his hand, droplets of blood falling.
"Lady Anselma, do stop snarling at my student." The voices of the dead began screaming when Chris' voice suddenly rang in Dimitri's head loudly.
Dimitri looked at him with wide eyes as Chris gave him a sad smile.
"I can hear them, Dimitri. I was born with the sight of the other side. I can see the Fortryde that cling to you. I can hear them." Chris said in his mind and let go of a sigh as Dimitri silently put the lance down.
"Christian...how...why?" Dimitri muttered as the man walked up to him and the prince yelped when Chris suddenly flicked his forehead with two fingers.
Chris titles his head a bit and smiles as Dimitri rubbed his forehead.
"You got a long way Justice." Chris chuckled and Dimitri looked at him with wide eyes.
Only his stepbrother called him that.
"You're going to go through a lot of hardship little prince. But whether you let them throw you down is and then rise up is up to you." Chris smiled sadly as his hand glowed, healing the cut.
He turned to the others and spoke.
"Seminar over! Now everyone, go rest. You got a two-hour break before Arisa kicks all your asses!" He yelled.
"INSTRUCTOR CHRISTIAN! WHAT DID I SAY ABOUT LANGUAGE!"
"Aw shit. Here we go again." Chris sighs and quickly jumps up at the roof and runs away like a ninja.
"Get back here!" Seteth roared and ran after him from the ground.
Many could not help but laugh at the sight and Flayn spoke.
"He's going to pop his head off!" She said proudly everyone turned to look at Flayn with wide eyes.
"Oh, Christian is going to be in so much trouble. I got to see this." Edelgard smirked.
"Hey kids!" Everyone turned to see Alois along with Jeralt coming their way, "Have you seen Sandy? We've been looking for her and nothing." He says.
"See went to the town to buy a few things. She should be back soon." Arisa says.
"Well, I hope she doesn't get trapped in a "Sandy" patch. Haha!" Alois laughed.
Many just stared at him, face palm or groan but like usual, Dimitri could not help but snicker but the next person, no one expected them to laugh.
"Pft." Jeralt only gawked at his daughter who covered her mouth to hide her snickering, and Dimitri felt he fell in love even more.
"Really? Kid, you've betrayed me." Jeralt groans while she coughed to try and hide her snickering again.
"Sorry, Pa." She smiled at him.
Quite a few people made a mental note that Arisa likes a few corny jokes and puns.
[-]
"I finally got you cornered!"
Chris held up his hands in surrender after that 20-minute chase. Not to also mention Seteth had damn lance in his hands, pointing at him.
"I'm going to die." Chris thought as he closed his eyes but what he did not expect was to be grabbed by the ear and pulled away.
"Ow,ow,ow,ow! What the hell?!" Chris yelled and he could hear his sister burst out laughing at the sight along with Edelgard.
Jeralt just shook his head and gave the nod of approval to Seteth.
"Dad, you've betrayed me?!" He yells and even Jeralt chuckled.
A few more minutes and Seteth let him go, the man running his ear a bit.
"Jeus Christ, you didn't have to go that hard." Chris rubbed his ear as Seteth pinched the bridge of his nose.
"How about we discuss your usage of inappropriate language? You are an instructor! But never mind that, we need to talk." He said slowly and suddenly Chris feared his life.
"Oh, what's this?" He suddenly whipped around to see Sothis next him, yawning.
"Since you took a portion of my power, it seems I have gained the ability to move around freely, only if you and your sister are in the same place. Add that with two swords made of my bones and the distance has increased greatly. Anyhow, might as well talk to my son since you have been avoiding him for 2 months. Don't think you can escape so easily..." Her voice was suddenly dangerous, and Chris gulped.
"Christian? Something the matter?" Seteth raised an eyebrow at him.
"No, no. Just...a few of the fae messing around." Chris said as he turned to him but sighs, "Lead the way."
Of course, they went to Seteth's office and it was the typical normal medieval office. Like Rhea's. Shelves with books, a few artifacts, even a picture of Flayn was framed. He had to stop cringing from seeing it.
"Please sit." The older man motioned to the chair in front of his desk.
Taking a closer look as both sat down, Chris noticed the desk was neatly organized. Other than the bottle of ink and a quill, it was simple.
"I see you were born with the sight of the other side." Seteth began.
"Seteth, if you want to threaten me, warn me or tear me apart with your words, just do it already. I already know your distrust towards my sister, and I grew when you and Rhea saw two swords." Christian says and Seteth glared.
"That is not why I called you here." Seteth replied coldly but sighs, "You have been avoiding me for two months. I know why." He says and Sothis hummed as she laid sideways like a cat as she floated in the air.
"I swear to you I am not an enemy. And Yes, I was born with the sight." Chris said and Seteth groans.
"I am not accusing you of anything boy!" He sighs, "All I am asking you is this, how much do you know?" He says.
"Many things...but I cannot say them, even if I wanted to. I swore an oath till the time is right, I would speak. For now, I really can't say anything. Law of the River of Time." He says and Seteth narrowed his eyes.
"How do you know about the...Agarthans?" He muttered and Chris showed his arms.
"Because I'm a survivor of their inhumane experiments." Chris smiled sadly as Seteth's eyes went wide at the scars, worse when Chris removed his eyepatch, revealing the ghoul like eye.
"The reason I'm still human is because my sister saved me. The Agarthans still live. I want to stop them. I don't want to see more people die not suffer what I went through. Hope you understand." He smiled sadly as he put back his eyepatch.
"How many?" Seteth suddenly said, "How many are victims?" He says and Chris shook his head.
"Sorry, but that I cannot say. It's out of respect. You'll know one day." Chris said as he stood up, "But I promise you this Seteth, I will protect Flayn. She's like a sister to me. Have a hood day." And put the door we went.
Chris was never the type for long discussions. He knew if he had stayed longer, Seteth was going to ask more questions and he didn't want that. He kept it short and simple, the message clear. He let go of another sigma she now walked through the hallways of the courtyard, and to the fishing pond. Seeing cats, dogs, a few fae, playing around. The wyverns roared loudly. He was near the entrance of the green house and smiled when he spotted his sister humming a tune as she tended the flowers she was growing. But quickly he hid behind a few plants when he saw Dimitri walking towards her with a bouquet of flowers and a letter. He saw Mercedes along with Dedue also hiding like him as the prince approached the woman.
"Cough!" Dimitri coughed as Arisa stopped humming and turned to him.
"Oh, hello Dimitri. How are you?" She smiled softly at him.
Chris noticed her eyes were red, like she was crying, even the other three noticed it.
"Arisa," Chris really wanted to yell at him for using her name, "are you alright? Have you been crying?" Dimitri asked worriedly.
"Ah." Arisa said a bit weakly, "Guess I have been caught." She gave him a weak smile, "Yes...I was crying. Had a bad nightmare last night. Brought back some hurtful memories. But, I'll live." She smiled.
"I swear..." Sothis grumbled, "Why do you hide your pain?" She muttered.
"I am sorry to hear that. Umm...I am not sure if this is any of my business but...may I ask what it is about?" He asked and Arisa nodded.
"I was in a dark room..." she began as she sat down at the edge of the brick edge, Dimitri next to her, "Connected to multiple devices. Unable to walk. Unable to move. Unable to even feel the sunlight." She said as she looked up to the glass ceiling, "I couldn't say goodbye to the people that I treasure. I died once more in that clinic." She sighs and Chris feels his blood run cold.
"Sothis, is the Sword of the Creator having a side effect on her?" He quickly thought and the goddess shook her head.
"She shouldn't! The sword shouldn't cause any side effects unless..." the goddess placed her hand under her chin and thought, "If the sword is causing her to become more open with her emotions...it could help her feel more relaxed but I do feel something is amiss. Like...somehow is clawing at her. I do not know what it is, but I worry." She muttered as the two saw Dimitri looking a bit pale at her words.
"You're saying...you know what death feels like?" How did a moment of happiness turn to this?
"Forgive me. Touchy subject. Let us change it." Arisa sighs as she stands up and turns to her garden, picking up a small pot of chamomile flowers, and turns back to him.
The prince stood up as she smiled softly and she picked one flower, putting it behind his ear.
"Hmm..." she hummed softly, "Chamomile does suit you." She chuckled, "Usually it is the man who gifts the flowers to the female. Ufu~ I like to reverse the rolls sometimes." She chuckles a bit.
"Um...Arisa...these are for you." Dimitri shifted a bit nervously as he held up the bouquet of flowers towards her.
"Aaaahhh! Cherry Blossoms!" It's been years since he saw Arisa smile that, "How did you know they are my favorite flowers?! They are absolutely beautiful!" She says as he gently handles them to her.
"He didn't know." Dedue whispered and Mercedes had to keep herself from entering a giggling fit.
Chris smiled as he watched the nice scene play. The gloomy aura around Arisa was gone and she had a smile worth more than gold, that Dimitri was frozen stiff, turning pink because of her smile. But what none noticed was that a certain priest had walked into the green house and froze when he spotted her.
"Sitri?" Aelfric whispered as he looked like he saw a ghost as the smiling female had the same smile as her mother.
Sothis turned as he heard the name, and fell to other deaf ears, her eyes narrowed at the man as he slowly made his way towards the two.
"These are lovely Dimitri! Thank you so much! I really appreciate it...no one...had ever gifted me flowers like this." A small hue of pink dusted her cheeks as she held the flowers closely to her chest.
"I recommend opening the letter when you have time." Dimitri smiled warmly.
"Pardon?"
The two turned to see the priest had walked up to them. Aelfric froze as the female turned to him fully. He felt like he was looking at a ghost as the female spoke.
"Can I help you?" Arisa says as Dimitri looked at him confused.
"No, no!" Chris mentally yells and quickly looks over the bush where Mercedes and Dedue were.
One looked towards the two and they immediately understood but the look in his eye. This man was dangerous. They had to get him to leave.
"Ah forgive me. It's just...I thought you were someone I knew." Aelfric says as Arisa nodded in understanding.
"It's alright. Have a good day Mister...?" Arisa titled her a head bit, unsure what to call him.
"Aelfric. My name is Aelfric. By any chance are you-"
"RED HARE NO!"
"WHO LET THEY CALVARY ANIMALS OUT?!"
Nobody has ever seen Arisa bolt so fast in their lives. That woman took off running towards the stables like a mad woman.
"It wasn't me. I swear." Chris to Sothis who just had an evil grin.
"Oh, I know it wasn't you or two other two. I was the one that did it. All I had to was say a few words that greatly hurt Red Hare's pride." She chuckled and disappeared in a shower of green dust.
He let go of a sigh and turned to see Aelfric shaking his head and excusing himself, but Dimitri did not miss how Aelfric had looked towards the way Arisa ran, but then left. Chris thought this was a good time to come out now since the man was gone.
"Well, well. Getting romantic, now are we?" Chris chuckled; Dimitri whipped his way.
"Oh...Christian, you...saw all that didn't you?" Dimitri said a bit warily as the white-haired man walked up a bit with arms crossed.
"Of course, I did Little Prince." Chris chuckled and could see from the corner of his eye Mercedes telling Dedue to not go into the conversation.
"I got to say..." Chris smiled sadly as he looked up to the sky with a sad smile, "It's been a long time since I saw her smile that happily. She's always had a strange fascination with cherry blossoms. They have always been her favorite flowers." He looked over to him, "You did good. But it'll take more than flowers to prove to me you're worthy of her standing by your side." He says and Dimitri slightly narrowed his eyes.
"Tell, me Christian...why are you so protective of her? She is an adult. I understand she is your sister, even I am protective of Lestia but you...something about you bothers me. It's like I'm looking at..." Chris raised his hand to stop him.
"Do not compare me to your stepbrother." Chris said coldly as Dimitri gritted his teeth.
"You sound like you have something against him." Dimitri growled and Chris shook his head.
"Please, Princeling!" Chris used the nickname Claude uses on him, "I'm not an idiot. I know I remind you of him. But I'm not him. Do not place the image of the dead onto me. Also," Chris walked up to him, standing taller than him by three feet, "the dead will never be appeased even if you kill the ones responsible for Chris's death. I used to work with him. He was my friend. So don't you dare put his image on me because that is pure disrespect." He said slowly and Dimitri's eyes went wide.
"I'll tell you a little secret Dimitri..." he whispered as he leaned near his ear, "Chris von Blaiddyd is very much alive. But also, very much dead." He smirked and backed away a bit as Dimitri looked at him with wide eyes but also ready to murder him on the spot.
"You...you...does...she.." and Chris quickly put his hands up.
"No. She doesn't. Anyhow, I got to go." He walked past the prince and stopped, "The priest Aelfric. Keep an eye on him. He has his eyes on Arisa and it's not for a good reason."
- August 10th: Late at Night -
"Hey Chris...listen. Sigh...Lestia, Claude, Edelgard, Dimitri and I spotted someone sneaking into the Monastery. Obviously, it's suspicious, so we're going there. Ah...and looks like poor Ashe and Dominic got dragged into this because they want to help. Hilda and Linhardt are giving them looks of "Why?" Anyhow, the passageway is hidden in one of the buildings towards the west wide of the Monastery. Near the woods. Make sure to get Amir and Alex." Arisa's voice rang in his mind as he nodded, walking down the hallway.
"Got it. I'll catch up fast since I got the place mapped out. Be safe." He replies and Sothis appears next to him.
"So, where exactly are we going? This isn't towards the girl's room." Sothis said as Chris stopped in front of a particular door.
"It's not." He replied and knocked.
"What on earth...this late?" A gruff voice was heard at the other side of the door.
This was the biggest bitch move Chris was about to make and mostly was going to break his sister but also the person behind the door. But it must be done, for both their sakes. The door opened and Chris spoke.
"Jeralt, I'm sorry to come so late but I need you to get ready. Byleth and the others found someone suspicious entering the monastery and it's not good."
Chris felt like the biggest douchebag in the world for getting Jeralt involved.
[-]
All over the street, shinning the old neon
In endless rain, what have you become?
How many times, I want to wake you up
Given you up, go up on my own way alone.
Who are we? How far have we gone?
Let us heal the misery and plant the seed we ever promised
Time is up! Go grab your arms! No matter how hard we have been
we shall fight for-E-ver! Oohhooo~
It occurred to me the old world...It may have said no word.
But I have to keep knowing:
I hear it from no one. It occurred to me in the old world.
It may have no word, but I have to keep knowing~
Chapter 47: Bloody Grail: Part 1: Abyss
[-]
Song: Oaths: Original song by: 三无MarBlue/孙晔
Let Arc 4 begin! Where things start getting serious and going downhill! The Cinder Shadows chapter will mostly be seen from Chris' perspective as well as Arisa and Jeralt. We will also be learning more about Dominic and more about Arisa growing up and how much adapting to the world 3H changed her but also affected her.
New allies and enemies will be here as well as question that has been asked many times will be answered. This arc may be around 3 to four chapters. Not completely sure yet but we will see. Also, Paralogue 4 will either be about Sothis or Sadi. Still deciding on it.