A face with a blank stare, the shadows partly covering their eyes, and a slight scowl on their face, the black-haired woman just stared. Sophia had also put on the same blank face as her. Henry just smiled as he was going to introduce his fellow dark mage. The trio were in one of the restaurants of the capital and had just barely ordered lunch.
"Sophia, this Tharja. The woman I told you about can help set up your magic workshop." Henry smiled and the woman just gave him an unamused look.
"I'm a mage. Not an architect." Tharja mumbled as she looked over to Sophia, "You. You have a strange presence. It's cold yet comforting."
"Oh, for the love of Sothis, please! I don't want to become her second love target!" Sophia internally began yelling.
"But enough of that." Tharja sighs, "You seem to be new to this place. As for what Henry told you, I may not be an architect, but I specialize in creating magic workshops. If you have the materials to build it, all three of us will get it done in three days." She explained.
"Wait, three days?" Sophia muttered, "I thought it would take at least a few weeks."
"We're using magic. Makes things easier for us." Henry smiled.
"But I am under no circumstances ready to cast some high advanced spell!" Sophia looked at him shocked, "I just barely found out I'm capable of using magic!"
"You're a fast learner. It's easy to tell." Tharja commented as she took a bite of her food.
"Sigh...I'm not Lysithea..." Sophia muttered but it seems Henry heard it.
"Oh, you know little miss gremlin?" Henry chuckled and Sophia choked on her drink.
"What?!" Sophia squeaked and Tharja spoke.
"Enough Henry. I can tell that she doesn't. She most likely has a friend of family member that has the same name." The woman sighs, "Lysithea is a powerful mage that lives here in Plegai. Not too far from Farzad Village. Henry, you should introduce her. I'm sure Lysithea would have fun with her." Tharja chuckled.
"Anyhow," Sophia coughed, "thank you. Changing the subject, I heard...you are very good at...creating curses." She said.
"I am. Do you need me to hex someone?" Tharja suddenly had a slightly terrifying look in her eyes.
"No! No!" Sophia shook her hands frantically, "I was wondering...maybe you could...teach me a bit? How to make them?" She asked.
Now that made the others look confused.
"Someone in mind?" Tharja asked.
"A few but I will keep that to myself." Sophia replied.
"Very well. But before anything, let's tell you your fortune." The black-haired woman smiled as she gently took Sophia's hand.
The blue haired woman was a bit intimidated but let the mage work her magic. Tharja took out what looked like a scale and held it in her left hand as her right hand traced circles on Sophia's. The woman's eyes glowed slightly as she could she blurry visions. It was odd. It was like something was preventing her from, seeing the woman's past.
"That is odd. I am not able to see anything." Tharja muttered as Henry raised an eyebrow, "It is all a haze. Ah...now I am seeing something. Ufufufu~" She looked up to Sophia's eyes, "You have many questions regarding the family from your father's side."
Sophia twitched and the woman continued.
"You wish to know more about the history of your family. Questions that were never answered in your homeland will be answered here. Hmm...very interesting. However...what I also see in your future...TCH! What in the blazes?! Something keeps preventing me from looking further!" Tharja snarled and let go of Sophia's hand.
"You!" She quickly pointed to Henry, "Something is within this girl and it is keeping me and everyone out! Whatever is trapped inside of her, you better make her master it!" She growled.
"I have no idea what you two are talking about." Sophia replied in a monotone voice and Tharja slightly waved her hand.
"Matters not. For now, it be best you learn how to control your magic. Too much in your body can cause harmful effects. Anyhow, if you wish to study how to make your own curses, I recommend the books in the palace library. There are a few from Ferox especially that are helpful." The woman mumbled as she stood up.
"I will be going now. I rarely like meeting people but for some reason this meeting went well. Perhaps we shall see each other more in the future." Tharja muttered and left.
Sophia was silent as she watched the woman leave. She had to admit, she expected her to be more...creepy but Tharja was decent. Maybe they could get along.
"We'll be here for a few more days but you're welcome to explore the capital!" Henry smiled at her and handed her a gold card with the Plegai symbol on it.
"What's this?" She asked as she held up a bit.
"I already know you're going to ask me about the books in the palace. Sadly, there isn't a public library here in Plegai because of the nobles." Henry gave her a wry smile, "Just make sure you show this to the guards and wear a veil to hide your face."
"I don't mind." She replied as she placed the card into her purse, "Any warnings I should know about?"
"Ah. Yes." Henry looked at her seriously, "There is an area called the restricted section. No one is allowed to enter it. Only the higher ups of Grimleal may enter. I'm letting you know now because there have been higher up that show no mercy to those that enter without permission." He also speaks from personal experience but that he will keep to himself.
"Alright. Hey, if I don't make out alive, make sure to put black and white roses on my casket before I'm buried underground." She says and Henry quickly covered his mouth to keep himself from laughing out loud.
"Heheh...Heheh...Don't worry! I will!" He grins and the two left the restaurant after Sophia paid for their meals.
[-]
It's been 4 days since she and Henry have arrived at the capital and things have been interesting. While Henry is needed in the meetings of Grimleal as well Aversa's research pushed onto him, the two haven't been able to see each other much. He's been busy as well as Tharja. As for Sophia, other than staying at the hotel, she has been watching Mustafa train his soldiers. She made a deal with him that she would treat the injuries they suffered as part of allowing her to live in the village. During this time, she got to get to know the man better. Despite how intimidating he is, he is more merciful. Sophia couldn't help but let her small smiles slip whenever she heard the man talk about his wife and son. How his eyes softened when they would talk about them.
"He reminds me a bit of my father." Sophia smiled softly as she was making a new ointment.
Henry taught her a basic wind spell which she used as her own personal grinder to mix herbs.
"Ah." Sophia bluntly says, "Favio dislocated his shoulder again." She let out a groan and Mustafa laughed.
"You get used to lass! Especially with these men and women! It's how our people fight. The blood of barbarians and warriors also runs through our veins." He says and chuckles as he watches the woman walk over to the group.
She also got to learn about the soldiers as well as get to know them. Some of them (males mostly) have tried to show off but were quickly dejected because she always had a blank face and cocked her head a bit. Purposely making it look like she was confused.
Despite how short Sophia is, she is quite blunt and deadly. Her cousin, Iris, would call her the real life FGO Asclepius.
"Move out of the way please!" Sophia waved her hands and the soldiers moved away, allowing her to get to Favio.
"Ahh! Sophia! Please help!" The man pleaded and without a word, she put the palm of her hand on his shoulder and...
"Hya." The man screamed when she popped the shoulder back into place.
"There. All done." Sophia dusted her hands while everyone couldn't believe what they just witnessed.
She put the damn bone back in its place. NO HESITATION!
"Make sure to use the ointment I gave you last week. Should help with getting rid of the pain as all as stop any inflammation on the muscles." She said as she walked back to stand by Mustafa.
"Is she a saint or the devil?" All the soldiers thought while their leader laughed at what he just witnessed.
"I'm impressed! Something you did often in your homeland?" Mustafa asked as she stood next to him.
"Yeah. I used to be a nurse for a while before I became a professional. Can't tell you how many times nearly scolded kids and teenagers for being idiots and playing too tough. Ugh." She huffed and took out two peaches from her bag.
She offered one to the man and he accepted.
"Out of curiosity," he spoke, "do you know how to fight? Use a weapon?" He asked.
"I do. Do you know what chakrams are?" Sophia asked and he nodded.
"It's a weapon mostly used by dancers. A rarity here in Plegai especially. Ferox is well known for their dancers who use swords, but a few do use chakrams as well." Mustafa said and Sophia nodded.
"Hmmm..." Sophia rested her cheek on the palm of her hand, "I was hoping there would be wooden ones to use for practice. Hhmmmm!" She stretched a bit, her bones cracking.
"Arca!" Mustafa suddenly yelled out and a woman from the group jogged over to them.
"Sir!" The soldier saluted as her eyes were like steel.
"Araca here is our best sword user, but also uses chakrams as well." Mustafa smirked as he looked over to Sophia, "Spar with her."
It was a surprise, Sophia had to be honest about that. Her eyes slightly widened as well as the woman's.
"You can fight?" Arca muttered as she crossed her arms, a bit of cocky look in her eyes, "You look quite thin and short for your age."
"Haaaaa?" Sophia raised an eyebrow, "Hell, I may be short, but I can bring hell when I want. Don't underestimate us gremlins." Sophia smiled wickedly.
"Hooo?" Arca smirked, "I smell a challenge? Shall me Miss Saint?"
"I have no idea where the name saint came from but you're on." Sophia smiled and the two women went to the training weapons wall.
"Pick your poison." Arca slightly bow as she extended her hands to showcase the weapons wall.
Wooden swords, axes, lances, bows, and many more. Quite a few but her choice was obvious. She picked up the wooden chakrams that were in a similar style she would use. Picking up the two chakrams and also removing her bag, the two women went out to the field. Everyone went silent as the two walked to the center, bowed to each other then turned back, heading to opposite directions. The fact that both women were of few words added more tension to the air. Arca held a little smile as she leaned back a bit on her left leg while her right leg was straight, her wooden chakrams held in a position. Left arm a bit up while her right one was in front. As for Sophia, everyone looked at her puzzled as she stood straight on her right leg, her left leg knee up. Her hands were in a similar position as Arca's but...Sophia had her eyes closed.
"What is she up to?" Arca thought and decided to make the first move.
She lunged at Sophia. She raised her leg and threw a high kick at her but at that moment, Sophia's eyes snapped open. The woman suddenly did a backflip, her left leg stretched and kicked Arca under the chin.
"Guh!" The plegain woman was not expecting that and had to take a few steps back.
Her glare was murderous, but she felt a shiver go down her spine as Sophia had her eyes closed again.
"What is up with this woman keeping her eyes closed?" Arca thought and the two lunges at each other this time.
"What hell?!" Arca internally screamed when Sophia threw the chakrams in the air and suddenly came at her with multiple punches and then did a high kick at her.
Arca was barely able to quickly use her elbow to block the right high kick. If didn't, it had had the full intention to knock her out. She quickly slashed at Sophia with the left chakrams and the blue haired woman bent backwards to dodge it. The plegai woman gawked and at that moment, Sophia quickly stood back up, catching the wooden chakrams.
"Ghaa!" It was a quick match, at most 2 minutes.
Sophia did a cross slash on the woman's chest, forcing her to kneel. Arca panted, and was shivering because during that slash, Sophia's eyes had snapped open. They void of any emotion. It felt like she was looking into a bottomless pit that would swallow her alive. A wooden blade of Sophia's chakram was under her chin, forcing her to look up.
The dark red sun of the afternoon glowed behind Sophia's head like a halo of fire. Her voidless eyes looking down at Arca with no emotion.
"Do you know why I keep my eyes closed during a sparring match?" Sophia's voice was monotone as the woman gulped, "Because I have anger issues. I keep it bottled up inside me and unleash it unconsciously when I spar. Thus, the aura around me is filled with pure intent to kill as well as my eyes." Sophia bent down a bit, making the girl now look into her eyes.
"If this was a real battle, my aura alone would have made you freeze, and you would be dead. I may be a doctor who made the vow to save lives, but I also will not hesitate to bring hell to someone. You got cocky. Take this lesson with a grain of salt. You need it." Sophia smiled and stood back up, walking away.
"By the way," she stopped and turned to the girl a bit, "how old are you?"
"Eighteen...I just turned eighteen years old a few weeks ago..." Arca muttered as she stood up, her head looking down to the ground.
"Hmmm...I'm your senior. I'm twenty-two years old. Turning twenty-three in December. Hmm...you're smart. Got talent to be a great general. But you're cocky. Not good. That attitude will get you killed. Take today's sparring session as a lesson. You need it." And with that, she left back to stand by Mustafa's side.
Arca spirit crushed as she dragged herself back to the group, who were in complete shock at what they just witnessed.
"Kids these days know no respect. Ugh." Sophia huffed and heard laughing as she looked up.
"That fight was amazing! I haven't seen anyone take Arca down so bad!" It was Henry.
That white haired mage clapped his hands as Mustafa let out a sigh. It has been awhile since he saw someone teach Arca a lesson. He knew the girl was becoming cocky just because she was better skilled in the sword then those in his army. But even those with great strength will fall to their demise if they get full of themselves. Sophia here crushed Arca's ego.
"Nice job! By the way, you didn't tend her bruises. Why?" Henry asked as he threw her an apple, which she caught.
"Punishment." Sophia coolly replied, "Let her attend to her own wounds. Should allow her time to think about her choice of words and actions." She took a bite from the apple.
"Ouch. Harsh." Henry smiles.
"I must admit." Mustafa spoke up, "I am impressed. Not many have spoken up against her. Plegain warriors' pride themselves in their strength but unfortunately that leads to many becoming cocky. Competing to see who is stronger than the other. There are also puts where those who feel ready challenge themselves. Fist to fist." He chuckled.
"You crushed her inflated ego. Good. I praise you for that." He smirked and Sophia nodded.
"Needs to be done. If you can't shut down someone when they are at their highest point of their ego, then they will never take a situation seriously. That is all." She muttered and looked back to the group.
Arca had a scowl on her face with a murderous glare. Sophia only juggled her wooden chakrams as she went to put them back at the training racks.
"Hmm...looks like my lesson went in one ear and out the other. If I have to keep kicking her ass till, she learns, I will." Sophia thought as she put them away.
"Anyhow, what are you doing here Henry?" Sophia asked and the mage smiled.
"Mustafa told me you've been tending the soldier's injuries. You've been working so hard these past few days I figured I reward you with something. You also have been studying the rune notes I have left you so you can practice learning how to read and write our language. By the way, I graded the assignments I left you. 70 out of 100. Not bad. I think you may pick it up fast." He smiled and Sophia hummed.
"So, any place you want to go? My treat!" He grins to her and Sophia thought for a moment.
"Is there a blacksmith shop here? I've been wanting to put in an order lately." Sophia sighs as they waved goodbye to everyone.
Everyone except Arca waved goodbye as they left. Henry smiled as one of the crows landed on his shoulder and continued to speak.
"Not satisfied with something?" He asked and Sophia nodded as they were walking through the courtyard.
"None of the weapon shops have chakrams! I was hoping to buy a pair for myself and possibly maybe come up with some amazing combination with magic." She huffed as she crossed her arms.
"Ah. Sorry. They don't sell chakrams here in Plegai and you would be lucky if you find a set from an import from Valm or Ferox." Henry frowned a bit.
"What about the blacksmith?" Sophia asked as they were now walking down the stone stairs.
"None of them know how to make one." And Sophia began groaning loudly.
Well, there goes her hopes and dreams. Henry couldn't help but chuckle at this, but he has something else in mind.
"How about we go to the magic shop? They make custom tomes as well as wands and staffs for mages. You could request something there." He says and she nodded.
"Hmmm...Sure, why not?" Sophia shrugged, "By the way, what was this about treating me?"
"You've been doing good on your lessons, so I figured I get you something as a reward! So, what do you want?! Anything!" He grins.
"Food."
Henry frowned. No hesitation whatsoever when she said "Food".
"Sophia, I'll get anything else other than food. We have plenty." Henry said and once more, Sophia spoke.
"Food." No hesitation...again.
"Gha...fine! I'll get you food! Anything specific?" He asked, a bit frustrated.
He wonders if this is what it feels like to have a sibling.
"I heard from one of the ladies that Plegai specializes in caramel toffee and coffee chocolate flavored candies. I want to go to that candy shop." It's funny how she looked like a child as she made a motion with her hands.
Her eyes always held joy whenever food was mentioned even if her face was blank slate.
"Ah. I know that shop. The nobles usually buy sweets from there. I don't mind taking you." He says but Sophia knew the frown on his face.
"Henry, you're frowning. Something I need to know?" She says.
"Well, there is this mage by the name of Excellus. Fat man who enjoys using the tax money of citizens to buy his lavish life. Often goes there to buy sweets." He says and at the mention of that name, Sophia made a face as if she was looking at trash.
She didn't think she was hearing the name of the fat pig of Valm. That son of bitch she personally would love to turn to cinders because of how much he made Yen'Fay suffer as well as Say'ri. Sophia doesn't know why but there are always certain characters she would gladly kill. For example, if there is a Cornelia in this timeline or Thales, she would not hesitate to kill, even if she has never taken a life before.
"Is there a specific hour he goes so that we can go so we can avoid him?" Sophia said and Henry smiled.
"Well, luck for us, today is his last visit since he will be going away for two years. We can go tomorrow. In the meantime, I'm taking you to the magic shop." He grins.
[-]
Plegai was well known for its dark mages and often called the homeland of them. Those of Grimleal specialized in dark magic and arts. Illegal ingredients and tomes sold in the underworld of the black market. Higher ups of Grimleal use that dark arts, waiting for the return of Grima. Very few used light or white magic. Still, Plegai was still a place where mages would come to buy their materials. The shop Henry took Sophia to was well known for making custom staffs as well as tomes. Especially for Dark Knights as well.
"Welcome of Istofan's magic shop! My new face. Oh! Henry! Glad to see you again!" The shop vendor, a man named Giga, rubbed his hands together.
"Hello, Giga! Any new stock?" Henry smiled while the man quickly began to walk with him.
"Yup! New tomes from Ferox! Aaahh! I love them! Mostly Ice magic but some rare ones indeed!" Well they left her behind to check everything out by herself.
The shop was filled with many different trinkets that reminded her a bit of Harry Potter's Diagon Alley. Walls displayed different staffs as well as tomes with different designs. Shelves were displayed with herbs, jars filled with bugs, some even live small animals. There were cages with owls. A whole shelf filled with books and wands. Some shelves also had rings, which she quickly realized were the rings that could be equipped in the game. Henry did also explain that there are mages that don't use a staff or tome. Instead, they use a ring that is embedded with a magic stone that allows them to use magic. Pretty much if you don't want to use a staff or tome. Sophia kept walking around and not too far, she could hear Giga and Henry chattering away.
"Oh! I also got a new book on how to create more powerful curses!" Sophia quickly chose to go back looking at the staffs.
"Hmmmm?" Her eyes landed on a box of books that unfortunately she could not understand the text on the box.
"Excuse me!" Sophia yelled out a bit and Giga quickly was at her service.
"May I help you Miss?" He smiled and she pointed to the box.
"I am curious about these books. What does the sign say? Unfortunately my eyesight is a bit poor and I cannot see well." She lied about her eyesight being poor.
"Oh! Those are books that we no longer have use for or have been returned. The entire box is half price off. 50 coper coins." He says.
"I'll buy them. And also..." she pointed to the staff that caught her eyes, "That one."
It caught her attention when she first came into the shop but chose not to say for a while because she wanted to explore more. The staff she pointed at was a dark blue one, its pole was at least just a bit taller than her. Its tip was dark blue gem and had the wing shapes of a blue dragon tail butterfly.
"Oh! Now that is a surprise." Giga gasped, "No one has even set their eyes on that staff since it was first put on display 2 years ago. Honestly, those people have no taste because it is a beautiful one but also because it is made of rare materials. I must say miss, you have a good eye. So, the box books plus the staff. That will be 2 silver coins." Giga said and she nodded.
"One more question." Sophia says, "Do you have the materials to make tomes?" She asked.
"Oh! So, you are a newbie Henry was talking about! Worry not! We already have that prepared for you. It is a tradition in all three nations that when mage is to begin their journey, they are tasked to create their own tome. Henry made his years ago. Since you are new, I'll throw in a few extra things on the house. So, tome set, staff and book, total, 2 silver coins and 50 coppers." He smiled.
She handed him three silver and was handed back her change. Satisfied with what she bought; they left the store. Giga hopes that they will come back soon in the future.
[-]
"You got quite a bit. Looking forward to studying?" Henry smiled as they arrived at the hotel room, they were staying in.
She quickly went to drop off the box into her room.
"Welcome back!" She was tackled in the face by the three ariels and one vodyanoi.
They cheered in joy as she quickly put the box on the bed before she dropped the damn thing on her foot by accident. Sidi quickly mage her place on her head, Ariel on her right shoulder and Windy on her left. Aqua floated next to her, a grin on her face.
"Gods, we were worried! We are famished! Anything sweet?!" Aqua asked and Henry peaked in.
The fae quickly flew back to the bed, cuddled together, and hissed like cats at the sight of him.
"Aye! The white-haired mage reeks of tarnish!" Windy yelled.
To Henry, he couldn't understand anything they were saying because their language sounded like whispers and such.
"I have no idea what they are saying." He says and Sophia translated.
"Begone the scent of fell! Shoo! Shoo!" Aqua snarled.
"Aqua says you smell like cinnamon." Sophia says.
"Scent of crows! Scarecrows!" Windy yelled.
"Windy says that she was surprised to see crows around you." Sophia smiled.
"Are you an old man? Who has white hair these days?" Aerial points at him.
"Arial says your white hair looks like snow." Sophia translated.
"Say, have you ever thought of being something else other than a dark mage?" Sidi says.
"Sidi says you are very powerful as a dark mage." Sophia says and she could see the fae's eyes burning their glares at the back of her skull.
"Huh. Thank you!" Henry grins and the far just gawk.
"By the way, we'll be stopping tomorrow at the sweets shop. After that, a wagon with all the materials has been prepared for us. We'll be heading out tomorrow midday." He says and she nodded.
"Got it. By the way, should I order dinner?" She asked.
"You go ahead. I have to work in my room unfortunately." He smiled and left, closing the door.
"Sigh. Sometimes he reminds me of Iris." Sophia muttered and turned to sit on her bed.
"My, you got many things." Sidi commented as she sensed a servant enter the room and leave the food at the table.
She could sense the white-haired mage cracking joke and the servant just rolled their eyes and left.
"Well, I'm going to be studying. I want to learn if I'm going to survive in this world." Sophia answered as she picked up her staff.
"Hmm...so you are an Outworlder? Rarity is so rare." The fae suddenly purred and it felt like four different people were hugging her, "Much rarer than jewel. More valuable than gold. Knowledge of the unknown. Hmmm...ripe." Okay, Sofia knew exactly what to do.
"I got you all candy." She said and they all squealed in delight as she gifted them each a caramel.
They quickly went back to the beds she set up for them, happily munching away the sweet. Sophia let go a small sigh of relief. She knows the history of fae. After all, she was reading about them because of the books her grandmother had about them.
"They invited you to their homeland, but they never said they let you go back home. I warn you beforehand. If a faerie invites you to go to their home, do not accept the invitation. Instead, offer them a small gift. Like a sweet."
"Yes grandma!"
Sophia let out a small chuckle as she lightly touched the blue gem. The reason she chose the staff was because it reminded her of Lucina and butterflies. Sophia as a child always loved butterflies. She would dream of times where she could fly freely like them. Butterflies are deep and powerful representations of life. Many cultures associate the butterfly with our souls. The Christian religion sees the butterfly as a symbol of resurrection. Around the world, people view the butterfly as representing endurance, change, hope, and life.
"Hmmm...How fitting." Sophia smiled softly as she held the staff to her chest, closing her eyes, "Hmmm...Hm... Butterfly fly away..."
The jewel of the staff glowed slightly as a small speck of light entered it. The glowing of the jewel represented that the staff accepted the mage as their master and will not let anyone else, but mage use it. Sophia opened her eyes and yawned a bit.
"I better go eat."
- Late at night -
It was already late at night as the moon's rays drifted through the glass of the balcony door. Henry let out a bit of a frustrated sigh as he crumbled up a paper and threw it into the small bowl of fire he had lit up. He and Tharja have been struggling trying to decipher the ancient Loptyrian scriptures regarding the Deadlords. The fact that Validar ordered these translated for an attempt to summon the Deadlords was madness.
"We do not have the power to do it." Henry sneered as he kept writing.
Months ago, Validar had ordered one of the high-ranking mages to perform a ritual in an attempt to summon at least one of the Deadlords. It failed. The mage died within seconds and all that was produced was a puddle of black mud. It was collected and sealed away. The man let go of another frustrated sigh and stood up, heading to the living room to grab something to drink. He was surprised to see a plate with sandwiches and a closed bottle of cider next to it. He saw a note next to it and picked it.
"Rest, eat well. Overwork, not good."
He snorted and couldn't help but let out a small laugh at Sophia's attempt to try and write his mother tongue. He had to admit, she was a fast learner.
"Too fast." He muttered as he set down the note.
The past few days the two have been staying together he noticed how she studied. Her working habits reminded him of mages that were in a rush to hear their work done, their life on the line. She would start gritting her teeth like she wanted something to hurry up. The way she studied reminded him of someone trying to survive a dangerous situation. At times she pulls her own hair and would chug down nothing but coffee throughout the day. He had to actually slam her book shut one time to make her eat something. Sophia was desperately trying to learn like someone was trying to kill her.
"Keep an eye on her. That woman may doom herself."
Tharja's warning from two days ago came back to him. Henry admits he likes Sophia. Not in a romantic way but she was one of the very few that treated him like a human. While put on a blank face to hide her emotions, he would put on a smile to hide his own. He wondered if she also went through something horrible in her life like he did. Now that he thought about it. He would hear her talk about her family from her father's side. But never once ever mentions her mother. He'll learn about the situation eventually.
Hmmm..." he picked up a sandwich and took a bite.
"Not bad. But needs salt."
- The Next Day -
Waking up was always a struggle for Sophia. So, she would always force herself up, go to the bathroom, and splash cold water on her face to wake up. Not the healthiest way to wake yourself up but whatever works. So right now, it was 10 am in the morning, the two made their way to the sweets shop. The reason for this was because when the sweets are still warm from being freshly made. Sophia's mouth watered because she was planning to buy at least $300 dollars' worth of sweets. She would be damned if Iris was here with her because she would limit her on buying sweets. The shop looked like one the normal ones in town but the inside of it made Sophia cover her eyes dramatically.
"Too much red and gold!" She says and Henry laughed as he closed the shop door.
Displays of chocolates, truffles, toffee, and more made Sophia's mouth water. The sweet scent was heaven to her.
"Welco-oh it's you."
The two turn to see a young woman, maybe in her late 20's, growing at the sight of Henry.
"Hello Defa! I missed you BERRY much! Hope you have a SWEET deal for us today! Nyahaha!" Henry laughed and the poor woman just began groaning out loud.
She was debating if she stabbed him or kicked him out. Which was a bad idea because he was one few customer that would pay good money for the candies here. Defa turned and raised an eyebrow as she saw Sofia eyeing the display of chocolate covered honey toffee.
"New face. How can I help you?" The woman quickly put on a smile as she made her way from the counter to Sofia's side.
"Hey! Don't ignore me!" Henry yelled a bit and Defa just made a shoo motion with her hand.
"Anyhow!" Defa quickly turned back to Sophia, "I see you are new here! I highly recommend the caramel toffee as well as the chocolate tarts and melon hard candies."
"Hmmm...Do you have sweets in boxes already? I want to buy two boxes of each." She says.
Caramel chocolates, chocolate covered toffee, honeycomb, the different chocolate flavors sample box, peanut butter cups. White chocolate, mint, cherry taffy, pistachio candies. Tea flavored scones, hazelnut covered almond and macadamia nuts, white chocolate cookies, and tea flavored cookies, butter cookies, lastly tea flavored chocolates box. Defa became still as a stone. No one has ever ordered that many sweets before. Well...except Lysithea.
"Two of each of those you just named correct?" The woman shook as she wrote down the list.
"Yes. How much will it be?" Sophia asked and the woman quickly tallied up the price.
"5 silver coins." Defa barely to say.
Sophia nodded and handed her...3 gold coins. Defa looked ready to faint till Sophia held her hand, a look of empathy on her face.
"Miss Defa, I can tell you and your staff put a lot of work and love in these sweets. Please accept the gold coins and use them to treat yourself and the staff to a vaccination or something. Also, thank you for putting up with whatever treatments you've shoulder. You are an amazing woman." Sophia smiled warmly.
"IT'S A SAINT!"
Everyone in the back room, the staff, boomed out loudly while Sophia just sweat drops at this.
"What's up with everyone calling me a Saint? Ugh. I'm more like the Ashen Demon." Sophia thought and jumped back when Defa was wailing suddenly.
"Thank you so much! No one has ever been so kind to me!" And right to work the woman went to get her order.
- 2 hours later -
She didn't think ordering that many sweets would be so many boxes. Eh, you win some you lose is what she always says. Sophia and Henry finished loading the last crate filled with fruits and vegetables onto the wagon.
"Enough to help the villages. You're a saint." Henry smiled as he jumped on the wagon and sat next to her.
Their two horses began pulling the wagon. All the materials needed were loaded with other things. Sophia gave Henry a glare. Being called Saint only brought forth bad memories but she kept her mouth shut.
"Anyhow, going to share those sweets? I'm just DYING to try them! Nyha!" He grinned and she shoved scone into his mouth.
Poor bastard didn't see that coming.
- 6 Days later -
Six days passed as they traveled through the scorching heat of the desert. Stopping at the villages to deliver supplies, which was a huge surprise to the people but also greatly appreciated. Again, this time with a bit more equipment and medicines she made; Sophia once more treated her patients. Surprisingly, this time Henry was helping her. Even though she didn't voice it, she was grateful he was taking his time to teach her about more of this world. As for Aqua, Sidi, Windy and Aerial, the four have decided to stay with her. They got attached to her and felt safe. They still hissed at Henry like cats though. The group arrived around midday at Frazad Village. The wagon was left at the edge of the forest since it was closer to the old cottage.
"We'll be exploring the forest!" The fae chirped and dashed with glee into the forest.
Sophia chuckled and walked into the village gates. The two greeted villagers and headed straight to Ahura's home. The walk lasted for a few minutes as they arrived at the stone house. The wooden doors burst open and out came Dana running to them. A wide grin on his face, his front tooth missing.
"Henry! Welcome home!" The boy pounced into the mage's arms and Henry spun him around in the air.
"I'm back Dana! Ya miss me?" Henry grins as he puts the boy down as Ahura walks towards Sophia.
"Welcome back!" Ahura smiled, "How was your time in the capital? Were you able to speak to my husband?" She asked.
"Thank you, Ahura. It was nice being there. And yes, I was able to speak with your husband." Sophia gave her a small smile, "He allowed me to live here in the village. Once more, thank you for letting me stay here and for treating me well." She gave her a polite bow.
"I'm glad you are allowed to stay. And it is alright. By the way, you both must be hungry! I made lunch already! Come!" The woman grinned thr trio followed behind her.
Talking to Ahura and Dana felt comforting. It felt like she was talking to her aunt (from her father's side) and her little cousin. It brought a feeling of homesickness, but Sophia kept to herself as her and Henry told them about what they did in the capital. Dana was excited to learn that Sophia was going to learn magic and began begging Henry to teach him. Henry has been teaching him how to read and wite and has thought of Dana as a younger brother. They also spoke about how they will be repairing the old cottage in the forest. Ahura said that an old woman used to live there but left 20 years ago to who knows where. The two also spoke about the villages they passed through and what was done. Ahura was greatly surprised by this but thanked the two because she has been worried about the people lately. After they finished eating, Sophia and Henry made their way to the forest.
Despite the village being a desert area, surprisingly, the forest was lush green and fully of different vegetation. No one knows why the forest is full of life but there is an old story that once a worshiper of the mother earth Mila, once lived there. She made the forest bloom with life so the people may be able to eat. Pine trees, oak ones, even giokos, and other plants she knows. Past a small stream they walk. Birds chirping happily as they walked. Small little critters and insects scurry around. She was surprised to see woolly bugs and a few other fae living here. She could hear their whispers while to Henry they just sounded like crickets and other bugs making noises. They soon arrived at the old cottage. Sophia remembers when she saw the huge tree but was surprised to see the bottle part of it was a cottage.
"It's beautiful." Sophia muttered at the two and made their way to it.
Slowly, they pushed open the wooden door, allowing the dust and air to go out. Inside was empty, safe for a few shelves that had closed jars and books covered in cobwebs. A few vines grew over the glass window, which Henry pulled off. This allowed the sunlight to enter and illuminate the room. Dust could be seen because of the sun's ray yet the more they walked in, the more they discovered.
"For certainly, a mage once lived here." Henry muttered as he looked over to his room with the door open.
Inside was just the wood frame of a bed but the desk was rolls of parchment paper covered in dust. Dried up an ink bottle with quills in them. An old journal with some dried-up flowers in it. While Henry kept looking around, Sophia found that the old cottage has about 5 rooms and one that leads underground. There was a staircase that she found and being the brave little shit, she is sometimes, decided to venture down there.
She carried the dagger she bought in case something tried to attack her. The walls were made of stone and the stairs soon led to another door. She carefully opened it, but what caught her off guard was that there was a green House here. A different variety of herbs grew along with flowers, trees, bushes and such. But something felt off. Unfortunately, since she was just beginning to learn magic, she could not sense someone was watching her.
"These are green tea bushes..." Sophia muttered as she walked up to the one of the bushes and then looked around, "None of the plants are overgrown and looks like someone has been taking care of them." She said and gently touched it.
"But Ahura said this place was abandoned. Has so-!" She suddenly felt the pointed tip of something on the back of her neck and froze.
"Don't move."
A cold female voice spoke calmly as Sophia gulped. Whoever this female was, they were not happy.
"Carefully raise your hands up." The order and Sophia nodded as she slowly did as instruct.
"Who sent you? Are you a spy of Grimleal or Valm?" They said in a low tone and Sophia shook her head.
"No...and no...I was told...the cottage was abandoned and received permission from the village chief to repair it and live here." Sophia said carefully and the female just narrowed her eyes.
"Is that so?" The female just hummed, "Turn around, slowly." Still keeping whatever, she pointed at her in place.
Slowly, Sophia turned around and looked up to the person threatening her. Long elbow length light purple hair with two long bangs tied with tassels. A purple veil on the back of her head. Light pink colored eyes narrowed as Sophia had a better look at her. She wore knee length purple colored dress with a purple and long white colored sleeve. The edges of her dress were lace in the color of gold. Lastly, she white tights with black shoes that had low heels. The staff she held was in the shape of a crescent moon with a black jewel. Sophia knew who this was. She couldn't believe it. Meeting them in the flesh.
"Lysithea, what in the name of Naga are you doing?!"
The purple haired girl quickly spun around to see Henry running towards her. Sophia quickly took that moment to put her hands down and lunged at the girl. Lysithea screeched when she was suddenly put face down on the ground, her hands held behind her back.
"Get off of me!" The girl yelled, her eyes glowing purple to show how furious she was.
"Sophia, I understand you nearly got killed but Lysithea is not our enemy. Let go of her." Henry said carefully as Sophia just gave him an unsure look.
"You realize she could use Luna on me?" She says and Lysithea's eyes went wide, looking back at her.
"How do you know about that spell huh?! Are you from Rosanne also!? Did that coward Virion send you or Cherche?!" Lysithea snarled and Sophia shook her head.
"No, no, and no. Look, I'm sorry. This is a misunderstanding. I'll let you go if you promise not Dark Spike me. Deal?" Sophia says and Lysithea glared.
"You have strange magic...you are not lying. Fine, I'll listen." And with that, Sophia gently let go of her.
Lysithea stood up and dusted herself, grabbing her staff. She shot Sophia a glare and turned to Henry.
"Speak. Why are you here?" Lysithea growled as she crossed her arms.
"First, let me introduce my friend here." Henry smiled as he motioned his hand to Sophia, "This is Sophia. She's a foreigner. Mustafa has allowed her to live in the old cottage here. Also, what are you doing here anyway? I thought you were in the other village." He says and Lysithea huffed.
"None of your business. Anyhow," she turned to Sophia, "I have been taking care of the garden here for the past two years! Didn't think someone was ever going to live here. My name is Lysithea von Ordelia. I left Rosanne two years ago. As for your question Henry, I no longer live in Higa Village." She muttered.
"What happened?" He asked and she let go of a huff.
"Valm spies. They tried to kidnap me. I didn't want the village to be in danger, so I packed all my things and left. Been living here in the forest." She sighs and turns to Sophia, "Hmph. You do not seem much. And I can tell you are a completely newbie in magic." She glared.
"Look, I really am sorry. I didn't mean to knock you down. But I understand why you did it. Sigh..." Sophia dug through her purse and took out a small box with green ribbon, "Take this. We'll call it even." She says.
Lysithea raised an eyebrow but took the box. She opened it and her eyes looked up like candles once she realized what was in it.
"T-These are the limited-edition chocolate covered honey toffees!" Lysithea then gasped as she heard Henry snort and Sophia looked at her warmly.
"Cough!" She coughed, "Very well then, I accept your apology. However, I do ask you to tell me your story to clean up any other misunderstandings we may have in the future."
So, the trio went back up to the surface and Henry went to get the wagon with the materials to repair the cottage. For now, Sophia and Lysithea cleaned up a wooden table from dust along with a chair to sit down. Sophia explains to her the same story she told Henry and Mustafa and his family. How she got here as well as receiving permission to live here in the cottage. Lysithea nodded and apologized for the misunderstanding. As for Lysithea, she explained that she fled from Rossane two years ago. Like in the original story, it was the first country to fall to Walhart's invasion. House Ordelia used to serve House Virion, but her family was killed in the war. She was the only survivor and learned that Virion also fled Rossane. Everyone in her country thinks everyone from House Ordelia is dead and she prefers it that way. She managed to land here in Plegai and settle for the past two years. Unfortunately, about months ago, word reached her that Virion has found out she is alive and has been trying to track her down. And those of Valm have been trying to kidnap her to force back to serve Walhart since she was known as the most powerful mage of all three countries.
"It's a complete exaggeration!" Lysithea fumed as she munched on a toffee, "I am not as some Holy Magus that my people believe, and I am angry they saw me that way! Ha! And they laughed behind our House's back and tried to earn my favor. And when my family was killed, none even tried to help me! Curse them!" She growled and Sophia tried to calm her down.
"I understand how angry you feel but don't you want to save your people?" Sophia asked.
"I want to avenge my family, but I alone cannot do that. Walhart is far too powerful and only wishes conquest. My family was shunned because we worshipped Mother Earth, Mila. The people of Valm worship the Divine Dragons. We worshipped Mila. Sigh...it is difficult when your father comes from the side that once worshipped Duma and your mother from the side that worships Mila." Lysithea let go of a sigh and Sophia gave her a pat on the head.
"But you've made it this far. That shows how much you want to live. Even if you had to flee in silence, you still worry for your people." Sophia gave her a small smile and Lysithea gave one back to her.
"Anyhow, I think it will be best if I leave. I'm not sure how the others would react if I was here." Lysithea stood up.
"Wait." Sophia spoke, "I know we just met but how about you live here with me?" Lysithea looked at her with wide eyes, "You said you have been living here in the forest and I think be better you have a roof over your head."
"..." Lysithea looked at her unsure.
"How about I make a deal?" Sophia sighs, "I give you a roof over your head in exchange you teach me Dark and Black magic." She says.
"You are serious." Lysithea muttered.
"I am." Sophia stood up, "Also, this place is protected by the fae and I know for a fact they will not allow any harm to befall you." She says.
"True...I am a Faerie Doctor after all." Lysithea sighs and looks back at her with a small smile, "Alright. I accept. But one more thing." She says, "Would you...teach me about the medical practices from your homeland? I struggle with healing magic at times." She admitted shyly.
"Deal." Sophia grins and the two shook hands.
At that moment, the door opened, and the two girls turned to see Henry.
"Ummm...did I interrupt something?" He asked and both women just chuckled.
"No. You're fine Henry. By the way, how long will it take to repair the cottage?" Sophia asked as they walked towards him.
"Well, considering Tharja isn't here, we'll be doing it by hand. A few of the villagers offered to help as a thank you for the fruits and vegetables you gave them. Should take about three weeks. The end of this month (April) it should be done." He said and looked over to Lysithea.
"You're going to live here with her, aren't you?" He smiled.
"Yes! Got a problem?" Lysithea glared.
"Not really. But means you'll have to contribute~" he sang and Lysithea just rolled her eyes but nodded.
Sophia was looking forward to the time she will be spending here.
Chapter 4: A Mage's Beginning
[-]
Chapter 4 is done! Thank all for the positive response as well as support. Thank you all. Look forward to Chapter 5 as well as Chapter 57 for Shattered Songs of Faith.
Timeline:
Sophia arrived in the beginning of February
Two weeks passed and slept through the rest of February and slept through all of March.
Woke up on April 10th.