- Dream/Memory -

"Hyaa! Syaz! Haa!"

"Too low. Ufu."

It was so vivid. The sunlight entering through the wooden windows, illuminating the room. A wooden floor the color of a light brown, built to be stepped on multiple times by either socks or bare feet. One wall was a giant mirror with wooden edges built used for people to balance. There was a closet with equipment and wooden swords. A little girl yelled as she charged at the person in front of her. The little girl had two wooden circular weapons in each hand, using them almost like swords as she swung at the person in front her. The person was an old woman, who only moved a bit to the left, to dodge her easily.

"And game." The old woman smiled as she tapped the girl's back.

The little girl made a loud whine but grinned at the old woman with joy.

"Grandma, how did I do today?" The little girl asked as the old woman chuckled.

"It only been a week since you started Sophia. You got a lot of work to do." The old woman smiled as Sophia placed the wooden chakrams on the rack.

"When can I use real ones?" Sophia asked as she quickly followed her.

"Gods no! Especially in this age, you have no need to fight for your life. Honestly, a part of me is glad you and your father weren't born in my homeland." The old woman sighs as she opens a door and it leads to a kitchen.

The kitchen was filled with the scent of chicken being cooked. Sophia spotted the rice cooker was on as well as spotting a man with dark green hair cutting vegetables at the kitchen counter.

"Papa!" Sophia grins as she runs up to him.

The man turned to her and smiled softly and petted her head.

"Hey there. Finished training?" He smiled warmly to her as he carried plates to the table and set them down, "Made fried chicken and the rice should be ready in a bit."

"Yay! Papa's fried chicken!" Sophia cheers as she sits down across from him, her grandmother in the middle of them.

"Erik, how are things going so far?" Her grandmother began the conversation as they began to listen.

"The business is running well." Erik smiled as he chuckled seeing his daughter devouring the meal he cooked, "I was thinking of investing into a new printing machine since the one we have has started to reach its limit. But I am worried about...you know who." He muttered that last part and his mother smiled sadly at him.

"If that woman even tries to set a foot here, I will not hesitate to get the lance from the storage. Perhaps putting her head on a pike would work." The old woman smiled, and her son choked on his drink.

"Mother!" He gasped and Sophia cheered.

"Yay! Grandma go piking!" Sophia grins and her grandmother burst out laughing while her father looked at his own daughter horrified.

"Hahaha! You remind me of your great grandfather sometimes." Sophia's grandmother smiled fondly as her eyes held a sad look.

"This is rare hearing you talk about grandpa." Erik chuckled as he took a napkin to clean the rice off Sophia's cheek, " I miss you telling stories about him and grandmother. Say, can you tell us about them? It's been awhile and since I never got to meet them." He says and his mother smiled.

"Well, if your grandparents lived in this land, people would call them, dorks in love." She chuckled while Sophia just blinked innocently, listening to the story, "Your grandmother loved the corny jokes your grandfather would make despite your aunts and uncles rolling their eyes. They were called wise by the people well. I was never interested in the sword, a bit of a letdown to your grandfather but your grandmother taught me a lot about history. Oh! There were also their friends. They taught me many things." She chuckled at the fond memories from a long time ago.

"Great Grandma and Great Grandpa sound fun!" Sophia giggled and took a sip of her drink, "I wish I could meet them." She said.

"I wish the same..." her grandmother smiled sadly.

"What are their names?"

"Their names were..."

- End of Dream -

Opening her eyes, the first thing in her sight was the light pink colored sky. There was still a bit of stars out, which meant it must be around 5 or 6 in the morning. She slowly sat up, seeing the small fire that was set up last night, still burning. Lysithea slept next to Opal, in her sleeping bag. The pegasus had her wings over the girl like if she was her fawn, protecting her. Sophia sat up, and looked around, seeing Ingrid asleep next to her. Carefully getting out of her bag, she stood up, grabbing her bag to head to the nearby pound.

The birds were already chirping as they knew it was the beginning of a new day. Sophia was confused. It had been years since she had dreamed of her childhood days. If people saw her younger self today, they would look at her with a "What happened?!" look. Her younger self was a girl who loved reading books, pulling pranks on others, and always had a stash of hidden food in her room. Her father would call her a gremlin sometimes. Honestly, she probably was. Life took its toll on her as she grew up to an adult. Reality slapped her multiple times that life was not a fairy tale she read in books. Anger she holds within she unleashes in different forms, but she's learned to surpass it. She arrived at the edge of the pound, cupping her hands together she used it to get water and splash it on her face. She let go of a sigh as she looked at her own reflection, the water still rippling as droplets on her face fell. Her eyes void, her face was like a blank slate. Her hair...she shall always keep blue. Sophia stood up as she finished washing her face and brushing her teeth. Spitting out the water and wiping her lips, she headed back to the camp.

It's been 3 weeks since they left Plegai to travel to Ferox. It's been a bit hectic due to them stopping at the villages to rest. Sophia along with Lysithea caught wind of the rumors that were going on about them. It was safe to say, Sophia was pissed but kept her mouth shut. Of course, she knew rumors were going to start about a doctor who can heal others with no magic but to the point it was exaggerated where she is called a SAINT?! Her medical skills are being seen as if they were a gift from God! They weren't! They were the fruits of her labor! Studying and training grueling hours to overcome the bloody hardships that stood in her path. Saving lives, to help the people she cares about. Gods, when she heard the rumors from a lady that loves gossip, she wanted to RIP her hair out so bad. She only prayed that the rumors would not reach Ylisse or Ferox.

Minutes later, she arrived back at the camp, where Lysithea was brushing her teeth, still half asleep. That was till Sophia took out a scone and the sweet smell she instantly detected.

"Finish washing up then I'll give you the scone." Sophia chuckled a bit as Lysithea stuck her tongue out at her.

Opening her bag, she nice the violet haired, age was making a face at the bag of coffee beans she took out. Training in magic these past weeks has been well. Sophia improved quite a bit. Her magic conquering improved and even Lysithea improved. The violet haired girl was starting to undergo the science lessons that Sophia has been teaching her as well as how to make medicine. While Lysithea still doesn't like touching blood (despite wearing gloves) it was understandable. The girl described to Sophia that the conditions of the villages as well as the people were the same in Valm. Citizens starve and fight for survival. People dying during the war. Lives lost because of famine. Lysithea hated war with a passion because it took everything from her.

"We should be hitting the border soon. After that, it's a few days of flying to reach the capital of Ferox. That's where the event will be held." Lysithea spoke with stuffed cheeks as she ate the scone.

"Makes sense." Sophia muttered as she poured water into her coffee cipher in a circular motion, "I noticed the temperature is starting to drop as we get closer. Make sure to wear your fur coat once it gets colder. For now, our cloaks will do. And" she handed Lysithea a bowl of vegetables, "eat your vegetables or I will shove down your throat."

Lysithea became pale because the first time she refused, Sophia literally grabbed her jaw, opened it, and shoved a cooked broccoli in it. The girl immediately began to eat the salad despite the face she was making.

"You know..." Lysithea forcefully swallowed her food, "at the village we were at the other day, I overheard a lady speaking about a rise in strange monsters. Corpse coming to life and attacking random villages. The Ylisse Kingdom declared their name Risen. Mages have also noticed a strange shift in the magic flow...I do worry for the people." She muttered and Sophia was silent as she listened.

"Anyhow," the girl finished her food, "the reason I'm going to the tournament is because before the event, there is going to be an auction of rare tomes. I need to get my hands on a specific one. Also, they need mages that specialize in healing for the 4 days of the tournament. The mages in Ferox usually specialize in range attacks. I also heard they pay good money for the medical services." She gave Sophia a thumbs up.

Sophia couldn't help but snort as she cracked her fingers, a movement that made Lysithea cringe.

"I'll show those mages what a real medic does. I'm looking forward to that gold." Sophia's eye gleamed with a bit of greed.

"Just make sure to buy me Ferox's famous caramels."

"20 copper each."

"YOU TRAITOR!"

- Weeks later: June 3rd -

Sophia was screaming bloody murder because of how cold it became when they arrived to the borders of Ferox. They had gotten special armor for their pegasus to protect them from the cold as well as a few magic stones that acted like heat rocks to stay warm. Lysithea said that the was the same as Chon'sin and was used to it. Sophia, not so much. She lived in California her whole life and the temperatures there were a mess. So, to suddenly be in the cold that was just as equal as Alaska or worse, she was swearing profanities that Lysithea was terrified of. As they got closer, the snow falling became stronger. Sophia just wanted to get there, book a room, get into the damn hot spring, and pass out. She was hungry, she ran out of coffee and wants a hot meal. Lysithea cheered once the huge stone fortress, also known as Longfort, came into view. Longfort stretches along the border of Ylisse and Regna Forex. There was also one built near the borders of Plegai and Regna for many years ago before The Mad King came into rule. The closer they got; they had their pegasus swoop down before they got accidentally mistaken for bandits. Once landing a few feet from the entrance, Sophia had better look. The fortress was made in a bit of a military style. Perfect to keep watch of intruders but also to prevent the enemy from breaking in. The giant gate made of metal that had to be pulled up by chain to be allowed in. Torches were lit up to provide light but also warmth to the people that were positioned here.

"Halt!"

"Ah, fuck." Sophia groans as they get off their pegasus and spots the Feroxi Guard mobilizing and surrounding them.

It was her first time seeing the soldiers. Their clothing consisted of bulk armor that was like an armor knight. They also wore fur with it to help them keep warm. Sophia snorted despite a lance being pointed her way.

"Speak your business!" One yelled and Lysithea was about to snap at them till Sophia put her hand up to stop her.

The woman only gave her a small nod and took out her mercenary card.

"We're mercenaries from Ylisse. We got our card here." Sophia spoke calmly as a man walked up and she handed it to her.

"...From what direction did you two come from?" He asked cautiously and she pointed to the mountains.

"We were staying in Hydr Village a few days ago. The one in the mountains between Plegai and Ferox." Sophia says and one of the other male guards let out a hearty laugh.

"Man! I haven't been there in years! Do they still make that peach liquor?" He says as he made a motion of drinking from a cup.

"Hell, yeah they do!" Lysithea piped up and the guard that Sophia's card handed it back to her.

"Apologies for pointing our weapons. Attacks at the borders have been increasing as well as Plegai bandits claiming to be mercenaries have attacked innocent civilians." He let out a small sigh, "If you're here for the tournament, you might want to book a room and quick." He says and Lysithea quickly gets back on her pegasus.

"Actually," Sophia began, "other than the tournament, I'm here to sign up for the temporary medical position for the tournament. Who do I speak to?" She says.

"Oh! You're a doctor? Head straight to the colosseum and speak to a man by the name of Felix. He'll lead you there." He muttered and Sophia nodded.

The metal gates made a loud clicking noise as they were opened to allow them in. Since the snowfall got stronger, the girls decided to walk with their pegasus to the city. Walking through the city, the place reminded Sophia a bit of the Roman Empire. Especially seeing the giant arena at the center of it. Buildings made of white stone; statues carved of marble to the shapes of past warriors. The people of Ferox were dressed warmly because of the cold. Despite it being cold, the people were lively and filled with joy. The scent of hot food filled the air as well as lanterns lighting the roads. Citizens were preparing and setting up decorations for the upcoming tournament next month in July. Stalls were lively, selling weapons, tomes, food, and a different variety of things. The girls wanted to book an inn first before anything else. They asked directions to the inns and they were given. Straight they went and they were barely able to book a room for the rest of this month and the next one. The room they rented had two beds with fur blankets, a kitchen that they could use. The walls were painted a light cream color and the window could be opened. But who would open it in this damn cold? There was 5 feet lava size rock that glowed a light orange, helping keep the room warm. Their pegasus were taken to the stables where they would be taken care of.

For now...Lysithea crashed. Sophia had to slap her hand over her mouth the minute the girl made it to the edge of the first bed and just crashed down it. Falling into a deep sleep that Sophia just carefully removed the metal part of her armor and put the blanket on her. She wrote a note, leaving it on the small table next to the bed. The first thing the woman grabbed was her staff, which she strapped onto her back. Next, her medical bag. Double checking to make sure all her tools are well as medicine was in there. But first, she needs to be presentable.

"Hot spring here I come."

[-]

It was sweet heaven. Sophia stretched happily in the warm water, careful to not let the towel wrapped around her naked body come off. The hot spring was built in an area where a bit of lava flowed underneath. Basically, geysers. With a sake cup held up with her right hand, a small wooden plate floating next to her with a bottle on it along with a few fruits, it was bliss. Taking a big sip from the sake cup, she let a blissful sigh of relief. After all those weeks of traveling, they can finally relax for a while.

"Not completely..." Sophia muttered as she opened her eyes, looking up the ceiling.

Her thoughts were becoming a bit of a whirlwind. Next month was officially the tournament as well as the battle against Chrom and Lucina. Honestly, she was looking forward to seeing the fight alongside seeing the rest of the main cast from a distance. A bitter smile came on her lips.

"Should remain on the sidelines..." she muttered, and her eyes closed again to take a sip of her drink.

She heard the water ripple and knew that another woman had entered the hot spring. Though, they chose to sit at the other side of the boulder Sophia was leaning on so they couldn't see each other. They heard the female sigh a bit in bliss and Sophia chuckled a bit when they heard them squeak.

"Pardon! I did not know someone else was here." They said in a slightly panicky tone.

Sophia just chuckled. Shit, she can feel the alcohol getting to her.

"No worries. Everyone needs to unwind once a while. So, how has it been for you here? Anything exciting?" Sophia smiled as she crossed her legs.

The girl on the other side went silent as they seemed to be realizing something but spoke carefully.

"I am entering the tournament along with a friend of mine. He and I just recently arrived today." The girl muttered and Sophia hummed.

"Well that's exciting. Do be careful not to break a limb because I'll be showing no mercy in popping the bone back in place." Sophia laughed a bit and took another sip.

"Are you a doctor?" They asked and Sophia nodded.

"Yup. I'll be helping out during this month and next month. I'll probably be scolding a lot of people when they finished training, but you win some you lose some." She shrugs and the girl gives a hum as a reply.

"You sound young. How old are you?" The girl asked and Sophia took another sip of her drink.

"I'm 22 years old and I'm confused for 18." Sophia grunted, "Anyhow, I never introduced myself. Name's Sophia. I'm a mercenary/doctor traveling." She says.

The girl on the other side turned still as a statue but carefully spoke once more.

"Pleasure to meet you Sophia. My name is...Erika. I'm 20 years old." They said and Sophia smiled.

"Hmm...you're about 3 years younger than me. About the same age as my cousin. Her name is Iris. Lovely girl. Gods...now talking about her, I miss her." Sophia sighs and smiles a bit bitterly.

She swirled her cup, staring into the clear liquid, her own reflection looking back.

"If I may ask, you sound like you are not from here. Are you a foreigner?" Erika asked and Sophia sighs a bit.

"You got me there girl. I'm not from Archanea. I'm from far away from Valm. Too bad I can never return to it. Realities are a bitch!" Sophia let out a low growl as she spoke.

"Are you home sick?" Erika asked and Sophia sighs.

"Sigh...I always will be. Maybe. Maybe not. A part of me will always remain in my homeland and another part of me will remain here in Archanea. Sigh...at least I managed to bring a few things from my home before I swept off to sea." Sophia sighs.

Part of her hated how she became more talkative when she drank alcohol and expressed her emotions better.

"Swept off to sea?" Erika raised an eyebrow.

"Yeah. Swept off to sea. I didn't come here because I wanted to. There was a huge earthquake in my homeland, and I was near the seashore with some of my belongings. The earthquake created huge waves that dragged me out. I can swim but the force was so powerful I literally saw my life flash before my eyes. Add that with getting slammed, bumping your own bag on the head and waking up in a completely different land, yeah. Not the best way to settle down." Sophia sighs, "On the bright side, I met new people and made new connections. I'm learning new things. Things that never existed in my homeland."

"Anyhow," Sophia stood up, "I better get going. Can't stay too long or else I really will get drunk. By the way, here." She lightly pushed the wooden plate and made it float to the other side, "Keep the rest. Take as a gift for hearing this old woman ramble on." She chuckled.

"You're only three years older than me." Erika bluntly said and Sophia snickered.

"True. But there are days I feel much older than I look. Anyway, good luck Erika. Take care." Sophia waved and left.

[-]

She was still as she stared at the floating wooden plate. It had been so long since she spoke to an older woman. Once she made sure Sophia was gone, the girl carefully walked out. Long indigo blue colored hair, the tips barely touching the surface of the water as the girl picked up the sake bottle. She let out a small chuckle.

"I'm surprised you still drink this, Sophia." Blue colored eyes smiled sadly as she took a sip from it.

Lucina lightly coughed because the alcohol was a lot stronger than it looks. She still couldn't believe that Sophia drank this... abomination. The girl let go of a sigh and sat back down into the water. It had been a long time since she had heard the woman. But it was her first time seeing her...so emotional. The Sophia that Lucina knew was...very different.

- 20 minutes later -

It's been awhile since she was able to relax like that. Dressed in a dark green winter dress that had a long skirt, black fur boots, and a cloak with a bit of fur to stay warm, Sophia began to walk to the Colosseum. As she walked, she noticed people lining up near the entrance it was a bit of a crowd. She could hear swords clashing and the cracking sound of electricity. The woman walked towards the crowd, she could hear cheering and some people making bets. The closer she got, she managed to get a glimpse of two males sparring.

"Excuse me." She said and managed to get through the crowd, and to the front.

Her eyes went wide at the sight. Children were cheering and sadly, fan girls as well as the two males' swords clashed. One-man dresses in a teal color coat with straps. He wore knee high up boots with tight teal colored pants. Dark blue-black hair tied back in a ponytail. He wore a Cape with a bit of fur and a hood folded back. He had a cocky smirk as his katana clashed with a killer blade. The man wielding the killer blade smirked at him. Spiky brown hair, brown colored eyes, dressed in clothing that was a bit like a samurai. Another sword strapped on his waist as he jumped back, showing his black boots with fur tops.

"Felix and Lon'qu..." Sophia muttered as she saw the two males viciously clashing swords.

The two had a bit of cocky smirks as they fought. Felix jumped back as did Lon'qu. The two panted as they got into positions to fight again but something felt off. Sophia narrowed her eyes at the katana Felix was using. Barely she could see it, but there were small cracks forming. Not a good sign.

"Wait..." she noticed the color of the katana had a bit of a gold color, not to mention, a small wisp of lighting could be seen from it, "I don't remember any katana that can channel magic." She placed her finger on her lip, "Was there such a weapon like that in Awakening?" She thought.

Unfortunately, being stuck I thought, she didn't notice that Felix's and Lon'qu's eyes went wide, that the katana shattered, and that a large fragment of it...shot her way.

"LOOK OUT!" Lon'qu yelled and Sophia looked up.

It felt like time slowed down as she saw the fragment if the blade heading aligns to the middle of her face. It would kill her. She could sense Felix and Lon'qu trying to run towards her. The people around screaming. A child crying. She was just frozen. Yet...

She did not know that the book she took from Plegai, the red gem on its cover, glowed faintly in her bag. It was like all feeling left her body; her eyes still wide but becoming void as they were still on the fragment. The only thing on her mind as it got closer...

"Disappear."

The fragment suddenly turned to dust before everyone's eyes. Many just stares in shock as they see the small pile of dust that landed in front of her. All emotion went from her wide eyes...and she fell backwards, out cold. Literally the crowd began panicking and Felix quickly ran to her side, carefully picking her up.

"Hey! Hey!" He yelled a bit while Lon'qu, worried, refused to go near her.

"MOVE IT!" A loud female voice yelled, and the crowd quickly split into two, allowing the woman to run to them.

"Lysithea?" Felix looked at the violet haired girl with wide eyes as she quickly got on her knees to check Sophia's pulse.

Quickly pulling out a paper towel, pouring some alcohol on it, wafting it over the woman's nose, Sophia began groaning and carefully opened her eyes.

"Uughhhhh..." Sophia groans loudly as she places her hand on her forehead and is held to sit up, "What happened...? The last thing I remember was the blade coming at me..." she groans.

There was pounding in her head that she really wanted gone as she stood up.

"Are you alright?" Lysithea asked, a bit worried.

"Yeah..." Sophia lightly shook her head, "I think once I have something sweet, I'll be back to normal." She sighs and looks around.

The crowd was whispering to each other till they all shut up at Felix's glare.

"You're a mage." Felix says to her and Sophia just rolled her eyes.

"Oh Hi. Nice to meet you. I'm Sophia. Ever heard of introducing yourself first?" She snapped back to him and Lysithea quickly slapped her hand over her found to keep herself from laughing.

The only other person that has ever snapped back at Felix was Lysithea and few others. Suddenly, the man had a smirk as he crossed his arms.

"Is this your way of thanking me after catching you from nearly falling on your skull? Maybe I should have let you fall to fix that brain of yours." He snarks back and many gasps.

Sophia just began laughing as she cracked her knuckles, a moment that made a few people flinch.

"Oh! How cute. The little cat boy thinks he takes on this rose with thorns. Try again once you've grown a few more inches, ya pipsqueak." Sophia gave him a closed an eye smile and people began "Ooohhhhhh~"

Felix gritted his teeth. He was a bit (a lot) sensitive when people made fun of his height.

"Anyhow," Sophia waved her hand, "I'm not here to pick a fight. The guards at the border said to speak to you regarding the temporary medical position at the colosseum. I actually came to speak to you about that." She crossed her arms.

"Same here." Lysithea says Felix and Lon'qu just looked at them and then at each other.

"Tch. Come on." Felix huffed and the crowd faded away, the girls following the males.

However, Felix made one quick glance at the pile of dust. No one should be able to suddenly turn a piece of metal, amplified with magic, to dust.

[-]

Inside the Coliseum reminded Sophia, once again, of the Roman ones in her old home. Pillars made of stone; walls made of stone. Stone stairs that led up to the top floors or two the underground training rooms. Sophia noticed that Lon'qu was keeping a fair distance from her and Lysithea, while Felix just rolled his eyes. She didn't blame the man. She understands his reasonings. The four walked down the hallways of the place. Sophia could see soldiers training as well as mages. A few whispered among themselves as the four made turns to a right and climbed up the stone stairs. Honestly, the silence was a bit tense till Felix spoke.

"Never thought I see you again. It's been 2 years." Felix muttered as Lysithea just huffed.

"It has. I see you are doing well along with Lon'qu." Lysithea muttered and the man glanced her way.

"How bad did things get?" Lon'qu suddenly spoke and Lysithea glared at him.

"To the point Virion is hunting me down to join him." She growled lowly and the two males looked at each other.

"Honestly," Sophia let go of a small sigh as Lysithea turned her head towards her, "I think you should know this. It's rumored he has become part of The Shepherds. You know, the Ylisse group?" She says.

"I...did not know that." Lysithea muttered.

"It's understandable." Lon'qu spoke as they were now walking down a hallway, "Recently, Plegai's Mad King has been sending rogues and bandits to raid villages and attack the borders both here in Ferox and Ylisse. There is a chance of war..." his lips became a thin line and Lysithea flinched.

War was the last thing she wants to be in. The group arrived in front of a wooden door, where Lon'qu knocked. A loud male voice spoke to enter. Opening the door, the inside was bit more of wild office. The desk was made of wood but there were weapons displayed on the wall. Sitting at a desk there was a bulk of a man grumbling curses under his breath as he was busy filling out paperwork. Sophia knew that feeling. The man was tall structure and well built. Dark tank skin with a bald head, an eyepatch over his left eye, a bit of a beard. Spiky fur collar that went with his gold armor and black shirt that was opened and exposed some of his skin. A gold belt that was in similar shape to a wrestling match belt was around his waist.

"Lord Basilio, we have guests." Felix spoke and the man looked up.

"Oh, who are the young ladies? Did you girls come to sign up for training?" Basilio says.

"Greets Lord Khan." Sophia bowed politely, "My name is Sophia, and this here is my friend, Lysithea. We've both come to sign up for the temporary medical position for the upcoming tournament." She said.

"Ah! That's good to hear!" Basilio grins, "We've been looking for a medic these past months! Sadly, Ferox doesn't have many clerics or sages. Where do girls come from?" He asked.

"We're mercenaries. We don't have a place we settled down in." Lysithea replied and the man nodded.

"Very well then. But first and foremost," he stood up and walked to them, "I am Khan Basilio, I rule the West side of Ferox and the current ruling Khan. Good to have you kids!" And the three shook hands.

"Nice to meet you sir." Sophia nodded and the three turned to Lon'qu.

"This here is Lon'qu. And the black haired one is Felix. Both are my best swordsmen as well as champions that will be fighting in the tournament for me." Basilio grins and Sophia waved.

"Nice to meet you two now properly. I've heard a bit about you from Lysithea." Sophia says and Basilio quickly turned to the purple haired girl.

"So, you're the little lass Felix kept rambling about! Something about a Ylisse Pine needle tea cake he liked that you made." Basilio thought for a moment and Felix's face turned crimson.

"Stop talking!" Felix yelled and the girls were snickering and Lon'qu cracked a smirk.

"Now Felix, is that any way to talk to your Lord?" Basilio laughed.

[-]

After that whole meeting, Lon'qu and Felix led the girls to the training grounds to show them the place. The trading grounds were the current empty coliseum that could be used for training. There were armor knights sparring. Mercenaries clashing swords as well as fighters, barbarians and like 3 to 4 mages. They were all meant, and the scent of testosterone was high. Many were sparring to see who was better and Lon'qu slightly backed away when Sophia's face was slowly morphing to a scowl because of the reckless behaviors she was witnessing.

"ARGH!" And there it is!

Some stupid punk clashes too hard and now they dislocated their shoulders. Sophia stormed over to the two before anyone could say anything. That aura she was giving felt like she was about to commit murder. The armor knights slowly looked up to her and started shaking at her aura.

"Armor. Off. Now." She growled and the men quickly obeyed.

Many were just stunned at how they quickly obeyed, considering she was of shirt physique. With the armor off, and she even had them at least take their shirts off, Sophia began groaning out loud at the number of bruises they were covered in.

"Sit down." She sighs and makes them do that.

Honestly, she hated reckless behavior but then again, she's done reckless things too. She let go of another sigh as she saw bruises forming where the shoulders were dislocated. And like back in Plegai, she gave no warning.

"Hya!"

"GHHAAA!" The first knight screamed while many could only look in horror at just witnessing her put the bone back in place.

"Now your turn." She turned to the other knight, who shook their head rapidly but too late.

Another scream was heard, and she opened her bag as the knights were crying after their bones were popped back in place. Oh course, she began treating the bruises, bandaging up the cuts, and applying medicine on them. All while the others watched, and some whispered to each other.

"There. Done." She stood up and handed them each a pill, "Make sure to take this. It'll prevent your muscles on your shoulder from bruising." She says and turns to look around.

"And this is how you treat patients who dislocated their bones. Apply the cream that was mixed with silver powder. Silver powder is made from the scales that the merfolk shed. When dried, they can be grind down to a fine powder and used for medicine. In this case, it was mixed into the cream. This allows the cream to naturally enhance the magic flow in one's body, allowing faster healing. As well as preventing bruises from forming as well as blood clot. And helps relax the muscle. Especially when the bones need to put back into place. The cream is preventing the ligaments from bruising." Sophia finished explaining and looked around once more.

"Nice to meet you all. I'm the temporary medic here." She grins, but behind that grin, gave the aura of "If you do anything stupid, I get to decide if you live or die."

Felix rarely laughed and quickly covered his mouth to keep himself from laughing out loud. Looks like for the next few weeks, it's going to be interesting.

- June 11th -

Getting used to a rowdy place was not easy. Sophia usually liked peace and quiet or at least some sort of music playing in the background. Back hearing actual grunting, swearing, maybe a scream or two while she and Lysithea were doing paperwork...

"Hand me the coffee mug." Sophia grumbled as Lysithea handed her the mug filled with coffee.

The woman gulped down the drink like if it was the last drop of water on earth. Gods, she was tried. The past week has been learning the rules and works of this place as well as helping heal the warriors fighting. Right now, she and Lysithea have been put in charge of medicine transport. Add that with a few mages asking Sophia about her, "Saintly" medical knowledge, she was ready to throw someone out the window.

"You look horrible." She looked up and saw Felix coming in with a tray of food and some pastries.

Lysithea's eyes had lit up candles at the sight of the berry tarts, which Sophia will let her keep. She doesn't like pastries with fruits. Felix is just like his time skip version minus Dimitri and the other Blue Lions being present. He's still a bit cold, sarcastic, crass, but just a tad bit nicer. This was the one thing Sophia was grateful for. The versions of Lysithea and Felix are their time slip versions, full adults.

"I'm glad I don't have to deal with teenagers." Sophia smiled a bit as she watched Lysithea and Felix bickering a bit.

"What's with that happy smile? It's disgusting." Felix said and Sophia's face went blank.

"Fuck you too." She snarled back and Lysithea let go of a sigh, "Anyhow, we should focus on the paperwork. Where's Lon'qu anyway?"

"Out here." Lon'qu yelled out from the door and Sophia let go of a sigh.

Lon'qu...has been difficult to get along with. She understands his reason why he is afraid of women and has been taking her approach towards him carefully. She speaks to him from a distant out of respect.

"Lon'qu, do me favor." She says and the man twitched, "Please go to a blacksmith shop called Arox. I want to know what time it opens." She says as she continues to write.

"Wait, Arox?" Lon'qu peaked in, "How do you know about that shop?"

"Something wrong with it?" Sophia says not looking up, "It was recommended to me by a merchant."

"Arox is owned by the blacksmith Zoltan. He's famous in all of Archanea but he's a stubborn man. If he doesn't like you, he won't take you as a client." Lon'qu replies and Sophia looks up.

"I...did not know that." She mutters and Felix shrugs.

"You're not from any of the three nations or Valm, aren't you?" He says and she closes her eyes.

"Yeah. What of it?" Her tone turned bitter and the subject was quickly dropped.

"Changing the subject." Lysithea coughed, "Why do you want to go to the blacksmith?"

"Every single merchant or weapons shop we've been either doesn't sell chakrams or has sold out! I need my blades! The ones I used to use are in my homeland and I can never get back!" Sophia growled as she messed up her hair angrily.

This left it all messy, like if she just got out of bed. Felix let out a small laugh at her but spoke.

"I know someone who can give you a letter of recommendation. Zoltan commissioned a ring blade for this person about a year ago." Felix smirked and Sophia just raised an eyebrow to him.

"I'm assuming you want a sparring match against me as payment?" She says and notices Felix's stance becoming straight.

"Good. So, you figured it out. Means I don't have to keep asking you. But let me ask you something, what was that spell?" He asked and Sophia blinked multiple times.

"What spell?" She asked.

"Don't lie to me! You know what I'm talking about! The spell that turned the fragment of my katana to dust!" He snapped a bit angrily and Sophia just gawked.

"That's impossible!" She stood up, slamming her hands on her desk, "I just barely became a mage 3 months ago! I was professional doctor surgeon before I came here!" She argues.

"Stop lying and just admit it." Felix huffed and suddenly a shiver went down his spine, his eyes snapping back to the blue haired woman.

"Did you just say I was lying...?" Sophia's tone slowly became a snarl.

Her hair puffed up like a cat's and the look in her eyes was suddenly murderous. Lon'qu along with Lysithea suddenly jumped in front of Felix, ready to defend him. The murderous aura Sophia had suddenly died down as her eyes went wide, realizing she let a fragment of her real anger show itself.

"Umm...Sophia...?" Lysithea gasped and that's when Sophia felt something drip on her shoulder.

"What the hell?" Lon'qu eyes went wide as the woman slowly touched her shoulder, blue ink stained her hand.

"Where is the nearest market that sells hair dye?!" She yelled out and Lysithea walked up to her.

"Calm down. Look, I understand that Felix angered you. I would be mad two if he accused me of lying. It's just hair dye. There is no need to replenish it immediately." Lysithea tried to calm her down but Sophia's breathing was only becoming frantic.

"I need to dye it...I need to dye it now!" She says and the girl knew that look in the older woman's eyes.

It was fear.

"One moment." Lysithea smiled as she placed her hands over the woman's head.

It glowed a soft pink, allowing the color that fell to return to hair. The hair dye returns to its rightful place. Sophia let go of a sigh of relief as she slumped back onto the chair, but quickly looked over to Felix and Lon'qu.

"Could...you two...leave us alone to be tall in private?" She asked and the two gave her an unsure glance but nodded.

The door closed, leaving only the women. It's been awhile since she's had silence like this but a bitter smile came one her lips as she covered her eyes, leaning back on the chair.

"I dye my hair...to keep people from seeing it's real color." She began.

Perhaps speaking a bit of her past would help. Seems even Lysithea realized this since Sophia rarely talked about her personal life.

"My mother...was a cruel woman. She was an alcoholic and physically and verbally abusive towards me. She especially took out her anger on me. I would do everything I can to protect my half siblings. I started to live with my mother when I turned 14...due to...my father passing away. My grandmother passed away when I was 10. So...things turned for the worse when I turned 14." She let go of a dry chuckle.

"I'm not going to go into detail other than during my teen years, many would comment my real hair color was disgusting. And at one point, it was literally all cut off. That's why it's the length now." She sighs and removes her hands, looking over to the girl.

"Sniff..." Sophia's eyes slowly went wide as she realized Lysithea was crying.

But why?

"Lysithea, why are you crying?" Sophia asked and Lysithea gave her a look of empathy.

"How long...have you kept this to yourself? Not speaking to anyone?" The girl muttered and Sophia let go of a sigh.

"Only my cousin, Iris and another friend of mine know about my past. Iris, because she is a relative of mine. My other friend, unfortunately, passed away when I was 18. She passed away from a deadly disease." Sophia sighs once more and looks back to the girl.

"The tears you shed...hm..It been awhile since I've seen someone be genuine with me." Sophia carefully wiped one from her face, "Your tears are filled with kindness and empathy. Thank " she smiled softly to her.

"Can I hug you?" Lysithea muttered and Sophia did it for her.

To be able to speak to someone like this, it had been a long time. To Sophia, the ones she had become close to in her short time in this world are Henry, her first encounter, and Lysithea, someone who is kind.

Kindness.

Joy.

Empathy.

Perhaps they were emotions she thought she could no longer feel. But they were there. It just took the right people to open to.

[-]

"Something on your mind?" Lon'qu muttered as the two were leaning on the wall, across from each other.

"That woman." Felix spoke, referring to Sophia, "Her anger reminded me of someone. Someone I knew a long time ago." He muttered.

"The blonde boy?" Lon'qu replies.

"No. Someone else. Unfortunately, I don't remember their faces. All I remember is that she was once my mentor...I think?" Felix muttered and Lon'qu chuckled a bit.

"Maybe you've met them. Maybe you have not. Anyhow..." the two men turned to look at the hallway, hearing the sound of metal boots clicking.

"We got company." Felix said slowly as they got off the wall and stood in front of the doors.

"State your business." Lon'qu eyes went cold at the two warriors in front.

If Sophia was outside, she knew the first one was Marth, however; she did not know who Alm was. Alm wore a wyvern half mask like Marth's but he only pointed his sword at them.

"We're here to challenge the Sword Master Lon'qu and Mortal Servant, Felix."

Chapter 6: Bitter Spice