"Open up, Kiran!" Clarisse shouted, slamming her fist against the door. Since he had come back, Clarisse had made it her mission to take care of the summoner, considering the state he had been the past day. She knocked on the door again. "If you don't open up, I'm gonna drag you out, dammit!"
The door opened slightly, and Kiran peered out into the hallway. He looked haggard and unshaven, his eyes bloodshot despite the sleep he had gotten the night before. He stared at the archer for a moment, then opened the door. Clarisse looked around the room, slightly perturbed by what she saw. While Kiran was not normally highly organized, the desk and area around it resembled a warzone. Papers and books littered the floor, and Kiran was frantically searching through the piles. Clarisse entered the room, scanning for anything else that may be amiss.
"What are you looking for?" She asked, leaning over the summoner. Kiran looked up and sighed.
"You know my phone? The glowing box that sometimes makes noise?"
"Oh yeah, that thing," Clarisse replied. "What about it?"
"It's disappeared on me!" Kiran exclaimed in frustration, "I know I left it on the desk, but now I can't find it!" He began tearing through another pile of papers. Clarisse picked up the summoner and turned him around to face her. Her eyes bored a hole through Kiran.
"How long have you been up?" She asked.
"Since you left." she glared at him in response. She had left around midnight, when she was sure he was asleep.
"Okay … first of all, you and I need to get breakfast," she stated evenly, "Then we can work on finding your phone, okay?" He nodded in response, shuffling towards the door. Clarisse rolled her eyes in exasperation. "Come on, you mope, we can get you some extra bacon."
"Yeah, extra bacon sounds good." Kiran mumbled. Clarisse grinned.
"I bet it does." She replied.
Kagero felt a heaviness on her chest. Light sliced through her tightly drawn curtains, clearly indicating that she had slept in. The ninja looked down, gazing upon a sea of aqua hair. She attempted to shake the woman off, but gave up after a few seconds.
"Nephenee," Kagero whispered. The cloud of hair just squeezed tighter. "Nephenee."
"Wazzat?" A voice muttered through the fluff.
"I believe it's time to wake." Kagero felt a face dig into her chest, shaking it's head furiously. "Nephenee, this is … quite inappropriate!"
"Not gonna get up," Nephenee muttered, "I don't wanna." Kagero pulled at the halberdier's shoulder.
It only succeeded in getting the two even more tangled up. The ninja growled in frustration. Who would've guessed that laid back Nephenee would get this possessive in private? Or this stubborn.
"This can't happen every morning, you know." This got Nephenee's attention, as her head popped out of the mass of hair.
"An' why not?" She argued, pouting, "Mebbe I enjoy snugglin'."
"Are you not a farmhand?"
"Farmer's daughter."
"Early mornings should be normal for you."
"Ya, but there was no snugglin' back home!" Nephenee hid in her hair again. Kagero sighed in defeat. The only ways she could get free would be rather painful for her bunkmate. Probably not the best way to start a relationship.
"Oh … What to do now …"
Mess Hall – 11 am
"So, what's the deal with that phone thing?"
Kiran looked up from his breakfast. Clarisse was staring through the summoner, raising an eyebrow in interest.
"What do you mean?"
"Why does that little box mean so much to you?" Kiran sighed in response, but pondered for a moment.
"Well, I don't think there's a deep reason behind it." He finally responded.
"What."
"I mean, this has been a really rough time," Kiran explained, "I think just not having that one last thing was the last straw, you know?" Clarisse's lips tightened.
"But why would this little thing matter so much?" The summoner was silent. "Well?"
"It … has multiple uses." Kiran admitted. "I can play music on it, which usually helps me work …"
"Wait … is that why I usually have to repeat myself when I'm talking to you in your office?" Clarisse interrupted, glaring daggers across the table.
" … Maybe." Kiran muttered. Clarisse leaned over the table, towards the summoner.
"Okay, keep explaining."
"Well … I also keep notes on heroes. Strengths and weaknesses and such …" Kiran shrugged, "Plus the camera …"
"Camera?" The archer asked, "What in Archanea is a camera?"
"So … imagine a portrait, but you can make the portrait instantaneously."
"You're just messing with me now." Clarisse replied, smiling, "You should definitely show me that."
"I'm not!" Kiran argued playfully, "I'll show you when we find it."
The duo sat in silence for a brief moment, before the archer spoke up again.
"This really isn't about the phone, is it?" Kiran looked at his eggs and bacon, sullenly, "Look, we don't have to talk about it, but I'm … um … worried about you." The summoner looked up at Clarisse. She was giving him an unsure smile. Kiran blinked a few times, and looked again. Yep, that's a new expression.
"I … no, it isn't about the phone," he admitted, "There's a lot going on, and I'm trying to wrap my head around it." Kiran began explaining everything. How the girl in the infirmary was a Princess who had just lost her sister, and how Askr was slowly being invaded by a country by the name of Muspell. As he spoke, Clarisse noticed that Kiran was favoring one arm. His left arm had barely moved since they began eating, and it was very purposely hidden within the summoner's robes. The archer moved her hand slowly towards his hand. Kiran moved it under the table, wincing slightly. Clarisse's lips tightened, but she let him continue. " … The phone itself is inconsequential, but I do wish I knew where it was."
"Well, how about this?" the archer began, "I'll look for your phone, and you can go to the infirmary for whatever is wrong with your arm?" Kiran twitched, and began to protest. Clarisse grabbed the summoner's robe, and calmly lifted him up. "Nope, no arguments. Get to the infirmary. Now." Kiran nodded, getting up from the table and leaving the room. Clarisse finished her breakfast in silence, mulling over her deal. "Where the hell do I even start?"
Art Room: 12:30 pm
"Good afternoon, Lady Kagero; you look well rested." Frederick was setting up the art room, carefully placing several still-life settings on various pedestals.
The ninja yawned in response, "Is that sarcasm I detect in your voice?" she asked.
"Ah, forgive me," he replied, "Lady Lissa's influence, no doubt." Kagero smiled, and passed the knight a helmet. Frederick raised an eyebrow. "This is Lady Nephenee's, is it not?"
"Quite," she responded, tending to a bowl of fruit. "I received her permission to borrow it."
"This … is the same Nephenee we are speaking of?"
"We made an agreement." Frederick recognized that tone, and didn't pry any more. He heard the door open again, and felt a hand on his back.
"Freddie! Ol' buddy ol' pal!" Robin said in an overtly friendly manner, "I hope all the things you needed for this week are here! They are here, right?" Cordelia was standing a few steps behind her husband, looking slightly disappointed.
"If you're volunteering, Robin, we could always use the help." Kagero offered from across the room.
"NO" Robin shouted before clearing his throat, "No. I just wanted to make sure everything was in tip-top shape, that's all."
"That's very kind of you, Robin." Frederick answered, "And I think we are doing fine for now. Thank you for showing concern." He saw Cordelia glaring at the bowl of fruit, and an aura that could only be Tharja seeped from the hallway. At this he gave the tactician a wry smile. "It would be a shame if such an incident happened again next week, though."
"Way ahead of you, Freddie!" Robin remarked, "I'm working on a system to prevent thefts from ever happening again! It's foolproof!"
"Well, I wish you luck." Frederick replied, smiling to himself. The tactician nodded in response, and began to leave the room. Cordelia was pouting slightly, but remained silent. Frederick noticed that Tharja's aura seemed to follow the two of them, relaxing Frederick slightly.
"Perhaps you have gained more from Lady Lissa than I expected." Kagero observed.
"Hmmm?" Frederick responded, smiling slightly, "I haven't a clue what you are referring to."
The ninja decided not to comment further. Lissa had a reputation that preceded her, and her working with an eager Frederick was a frightful thought indeed.
"So this is the art room." The duo of teachers looked towards the door again. Ishtar was standing near the entryway, looking around the room with a slight smile. "It is cozier than I expected." The mage looked at Kagero and Frederick. "Ah, I apologize, I don't think we have properly met."
"Indeed we have not, milady," Frederick announced franctically, "I am Frederick, retainer of the Exalt Chrom of Ylisse."
"I am Kagero, retainer of Prince Ryoma of Hoshido." Kagero bowed to Ishtar respectfully.
"Ishtar, Princess of Friege," she replied, giving an awkward curtsy, "It is a pleasure to meet you." Ishtar surveyed the room again, motioning to a seat near a canvas. "May I?"
"Of course." Frederick answered kindly, "Would you like anything?" Ishtar laughed quietly.
"You have other things to do, do you not?" She said, "As much as I appreciate the offer, I'm just here to try as many things as I can."
"I see." Frederick replied, moving his attention to Nephenee's helmet.
"So, have you found the castle to your liking?" Kagero asked the mage. Ishtar smiled warmly.
"Why, yes!" She answered, "The atmosphere is so unique. And having Reinhardt here has been a great help."
"Ah, you know Reinhardt?" Frederick asked.
"Quite, he has been my retainer since childhood. He's taught me nearly everything I know." Ishtar seemed to frown slightly at mention of this, but didn't continue. Kagero frowned as well, but kept silent. "... He mentioned that this class was rather interesting last time around!"
"... I don't know about interesting …" Frederick answered cautiously.
"I found it quite interesting," Kagero said bluntly, "Just a word of advice, Lady Ishtar; don't let Sir Frederick keep inventory if he's working with his wife. He might seem very noble, but he tends to be quite mischievous."
"L-Lady Kagero …" He replied weakly, to which the Ninja chuckled to herself. Ishtar laughed quietly.
"I'll keep that in mind." She said sweetly. As Frederick attempted to explain himself, other heroes began to shuffle in. Cordelia, Tana, and Eirika walked in together; Cordelia looking particularly crestfallen. Reinhardt moved towards Ishtar, but Kagero noticed her smile and shake her head. Reinhardt hesistated, before taking a seat next to Soren. The ninja furrowed her brow.
I may need to investigate this woman. She thought.
"Excuse me, may I sit here?"
Ishtar looked up from her canvas. Someone was standing at the easel next to her. "Of course!" She responded, "And you are?"
"Oh, I'm sorry! I'm Oboro!" Oboro bowed very quickly. "I'm the retainer for Prince Takumi of Hoshido!"
"Ishtar of Friege," came the kind reply, "There are quite a few retainers from Hoshido, aren't there?"
Oboro sat down and began looking through her brushes. "Tell me about it," she responded, "Sometimes it feels a little over the top!" The spearwoman looked at the helmet placed in front of her easel. "Do you not have retainers in … um … Fridge? Friege?"
"Oh yes, my retainer was Reinhardt," Ishtar stated. Oboro spluttered for a moment.
"Reinhardt?!" She practically shouted, before leaning in. "You don't mean Reinhardt Reinhardt?" Oboro whispered, "The Reinhardt that blasts away training dummies like it's nothing?"
Ishtar chuckled, "The very same."
"Wait, and he's your retainer?" The spearwoman covered her face. "I have been much too casual with you, milady!" Ishtar smiled, holding back another giggle.
"It's quite alright," she replied, "I'm not exactly a noble anymore, so I'd rather we be equals, if that's okay."
Oboro gave Ishtar a quizzical look, but didn't question. "Alright, if you're sure."
"Very much so."
Medical Wing – 1:20 pm
Kiran sat in a chair, uncomfortably holding a jar of salve while Elise admonished him.
"Your health is really important, Kiran!"
"I know."
"Don't just say 'I know'! Say 'I'm sorry' or 'Thanks for your concern'! Sheesh!" Elise bopped the summoner on the head, "I know you worry about everyone else, but if you don't take care of yourself, who knows what will happen?"
Kiran pouted. "You didn't have to hit me, y'know …" He whined. Elise didn't respond, instead tapping her feet impatiently. "... I'm sorry."
"Thank you!" Elise responded eagerly, preparing some bandages, "And don't worry, just make sure you take care of yourself in the future!"
Kiran nodded. "And how's the other patient?" Elise frowned slightly.
"Well, she's recovered fully, so I sent her off with Sharena …" She began, "But what happened?" Kiran flinched as the bandages touched his injuries, a series of cuts and minor burns on his arms.
"You don't want to know, just trust me on this." He winced again.
"Sorry!" Elise exclaimed, "I should've warned you that that would hurt." She finished up quickly, making sure to be extra careful. "There! Try to use that arm as little as possible for a couple of days, we'll change the bandages daily and put some more salve on it, okay?"
"Yeah, sounds good." Kiran replied. Truth be told, he wasn't looking forward to it, but Elise had a point. What good is a summoner if he can't summon anything? He thought to himself as he left the room.
"So how are you feeling?" Kiran was knocked out of his thoughts by Clarisse, who was standing by the door. The archer gave him a slight smile before continuing, "Not sure if I like the bandaged look, but I'm glad you're not hiding it anymore."
Kiran didn't answer right away, but smiled back. Clarisse turned away, for what reasons, the summoner wasn't sure. "So is the summoning room ready?"
"Huh?"
"I was thinking of having a summoning session," Kiran said, "I had to summon all those new heroes in an emergency, and it looks like we'll need to bolster our army."
Clarisse looked nervously to the wall, "Why don't we just wait until tomorrow? I think it would be better if you got some rest."
The summoner chuckled. "Nah, I feel pretty good right now! We should get everything set up, so we can have the session after art club." He started walking through the hallways, towards the summoning hall.
Oh crap oh crap oh crap. Clarisse thought to herself. Lute's probably in there, and when he sees the missing orbs he's gonna lose his mind! Other various negative thoughts entered her mind, as she hurried to keep up.
"You alright?" Kiran asked, "You look really pale."
"It's been … um …" The sniper struggled to answer, "Cold! And you're moving too damn fast!"
"My apologies," came the reply, "I didn't realize I was moving so quickly." Kiran slowed his speed a little, and Clarisse moved in front of him. As the duo reached the door, Clarisse quickly put herself inbetween the summoner and the entrance.
"Do you happen to have the keys?" She practically shouted, hoping that Lute could hear her and hide. She heard a small pitter patter of footsteps, confirming her fears. Now Clarisse had to figure out how to distract Kiran to let her out. The archer had one idea, but...
"Yeah I have the extra set," the summoner replied, "Did you leave yours somewhere?" He chuckled at the thought. "It's not like you to be forgettable." Clarisse cursed to herself. She had to stall somehow, but Kiran was way too prepared. What does a girl have to do? She thought to herself, groaning in frustration.
The idea came to Clarisse in waves; it wasn't even fully formulated as Kiran began opening the door. Frantically apologizing in her head, the archer grabbed the summoner by the shoulders, pulling him away from the door. She slammed him against the wall, staying close to him to block his view of the door.
"Clarisse!" Kiran exclaimed, "W-w-what on-"
It was then that Clarisse noticed the distance between the two of them. Her face grew flushed. "Damn it all," she muttered, "Might as well go for it." She had read those romance books Lute rented out for 'research', she had dreamed of this. Well, not quite this; but it was a decent approximation. The archer carefully cradled the summoner's head, and kissed him.
To call Clarisse a bad kisser would be an insult to bad kissers; the veritable train-wreck of emotions smashing through her head were definitely not helping either. She heard the sounds of Lute scurrying away, though they seemed to stop. After what felt like an eternity, she pulled away from Kiran, face bright crimson.
"What was that?" Kiran asked, his face not faring much better.
"It's not like I know what I'm doing!" Clarisse squeaked out, stomping her foot in frustration, "Did you expect 'Clarisse, Master Kisser'?" She turned to look at the door. Lute was standing near the threshold, her face portraying a mixture of delight, curiosity, and disgust that really sent the message home. "What?" Clarisse growled at the mage, "Was it that bad?"
Kiran touched Clarisse's cheek. "Clarisse, where did that come from?" He asked meekly.
"Months of frustration and desire, no doubt," Lute observed, "I read something about that recently, in-"
"Thank. You. Lute. For. Your. Interesting. Contribution." Clarisse snarled pointedly. Lute shied away, running around the corner. She turned back around; Kiran was staring at the archer, wide-eyed. Clarisse stared back for a moment, her face heating up from embarrassment. She turned away, muttering "What?" under her breath.
"S-so …" Kiran began, "Does this mean what -"
"What does what mean?!" Clarisse shouted, "Don't we have work to do?" As she turned to leave, she felt his hand grip her own. She hesitated. "Let's talk about it later, okay?" She quietly responded, "It's embarrassing."
Kiran was quiet for a minute. "Alright." He finally whispered, letting her go. The silence was unbearable as they began setting up Breidablik. As Kiran looked into his orb crate, Clarisse let out a sharp inhale. The summoner chuckled. "So, Lute's been messing with Breidablik?"
"W-what?" Clarisse stammered, "Why would you think that?"
"Well, I'm missing some orbs …" Kiran began with a teasing inflection, "And you were clearly trying to distract me so she could leave." He turned to the archer, who was bright red. "If she didn't make that comment earlier, that plan would've worked too!"
"D-did …" Clarisse had a moment of realization, and she flashed with anger, "Did you know the entire damn time?!" She began shaking with fury. "I was nervous as hell!"
"I didn't know who was messing with Breidablik," Kiran quickly explained, "I just felt like something was up, you know?"
"You just felt it?" Clarisse asked accusingly, "That doesn't sound fishy at all."
"Y-yeah," he replied nervously. The eyes glaring daggers into his back made Kiran rethink his explanation, and he hesitated. "Okay, so Breidablik sends out orders on a particular frequency."
"Frequency." Clarisse answered, nonplussed.
"Yes, it's like sound," Kiran replied lamely, "Or something like that, it's not exactly my forte."
"Uh huh," she said, "So this frequency does what, exactly?"
"Um …" He hesitated, "It can connect to my phone."
"Your phone."
"Yep."
"The one that you lost."
Kiran clicked his tongue. "Yep."
"That feels a little more significant than just a little music player." Clarisse responded, glowering at the summoner. "Do you not trust me or something?"
"No!" Kiran shouted, almost by reflex. "No. It has nothing to do with that."
"Well, whatever." Breidablik began to glow, and Clarisse walked towards the entrance of the room. "I'll go gather a crowd, just sit tight." The summoner didn't get to respond, as she was out of the room in a flash of anger. Kiran touched his lips, and frowned.
"I absolutely screwed up, didn't I?" he muttered to himself.
Ishtar was taken out of her artistic flow by an extremely loud bell echoing through the castle. Frederick looked moderately annoyed, but Kagero merely clapped her hands together.
"Everyone, it seems like the summoner is well enough to summon some heroes! You can stay here if you'd like." She turned to Frederick, "Did you want to go?" Frederick shook his head.
"You may be needed if the hero is unruly. I can clean up and watch over the others." The ninja nodded in response.
"If anyone wishes to join me, you are quite welcome to," Kagero announced, "Otherwise Frederick will be here to help you out." As she walked towards the door, Cordelia followed her out as well.
"Hey, you wanna go?" Oboro asked the sorceress.
"I must say I am intrigued," Ishtar confessed, "I was the last one Kiran summoned before we arrived here, so I have never actually seen the process." Oboro nodded.
"Alright then, let's go!" Oboro nearly dragged Ishtar out of the door into the hallway. The two caught up with Kagero and Cordelia rather quickly. The ninja turned her head slightly at the sound of two people running down the hallway.
"Ah, Oboro; still studying clothes from other realms?"
Oboro pumped her fists excitedly. "Of course!" she replied, "If I'm gonna be the greatest seamstress in all the realms, I need to see and understand as many outfits as possible!"
"Ah, you're a seamstress as well?" Ishtar asked.
"She made my outfit, as well as a yukata for seasonal events. She is truly a talent." Kagero replied. Ishtar looked over the ninja. Her clothes were functional, but had some individuality to them. It was quite impressive work for someone who was a soldier first.
"I see." Ishtar began looking at her own clothes. A Friegian dress of the highest quality, along with her flowing cape. It was nice, but there was another dress she preferred. Her black dress was likely still in her closet in the castle. This caused her to frown. "It's very impressive." She finally said.
"Oh, it isn't anything impressive," Oboro said, attempting to hide her smile. "Just keeping the family tradition alive!" Ishtar opened her mouth to inquire to her meaning, but Kagero eyed her and shook her head. The sorceress shut her mouth, preferring not to open that can of worms. "Hey, I'll make you something if you want! I'd guess you're a size … Kagero?"
"She really is, isn't she?" Cordelia spoke up. Ishtar had only had one real interaction with the knight, but she seemed rather friendly, if only a bit blunt. Cordelia sighed, but said nothing more.
"Still sighing, Lady Cordelia?" The breathy voice of Camilla came from around a corner. She was flanked by Severa, Beruka, and Owain.
"Ah, good day, Lady Camilla," The redhead muttered. Ishtar glanced at the new additions to their group. The one that Cordelia had called Camilla had a predatory air about her, eyeing everyone in the corridor. The shorter silver-haired girl was cautious, though she hid it rather well. Her eyes darted from place to place. The blonde-haired boy was loud and boisterous, not at all like the other three. Then there was the last one, with red pigtails and a scowl like Ishtore's. Upon closer inspection, this girl had very similar hair to Lady Cordelia …
" … Hello?" Ishtar looked up to see Camilla leaning over towards her. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything?"
"Ah!" Ishtar uncharacteristically moved defensively. "N-no, I was just lost in my thoughts …"
"Lady Camilla, you may be crossing your boundries again." The short silver-haired girl stated. The wyvern rider pulled away from Ishtar, giggling to herself.
"I apologize, I do enjoy teasing; and Oboro makes the greatest faces when I start teasing her friends!" The others turned to face Oboro.
"Ah, we've been here for months and you still make that face, Oboro?" Kagero asked.
"So that's the 'demon king' face I've heard so much about." Cordelia noted. Camilla chuckled, while Owain and Severa looked more than slightly perturbed.
"I CAN'T HELP HOW MY FACE MOVES!" Oboro shouted. Ishtar made a mental note: Never be the reason Oboro makes that face.
"Everyone's here that's gonna be here." Clarisse's voice was rough and terse.
"Um … Right." Kiran replied. His head was spinning; It was like he was a high school again, oozing horrible puberty and covered in nervous sweat. He thought Clarisse had made her intentions clear, but now she was treating him like a slime mold. She did promise to talk to me afterwards, though. He thought to himself. We can clear it up then. "I guess I'll start then." He turned to the small group that had gathered. "Hey everyone, I wasn't sure if anyone would be interested, but I thought that today was as good a time as any to summon some new heroes!"
As Kiran continued talking, Kagero focused on the summoning zone. She, Gaius, and one of the many mages in the castle were oftentimes tasked with keeping the room secure, just in case a not-so-friendly hero was to appear. The ninja had one hand on her weapons, sitting on a hair trigger …
"Kagero, I need ya help!" Came a desperate whisper behind her. Kagero turned to see a familiar curtain of turquoise hair, and pleading eyes. Nephenee was holding a small metal rectangle. As she looked a second longer, she recognized the rectangle as the phone that she had borrowed from Kiran's room. But it wasn't glowing like before.
"Uh oh."
"Alright," the duo heard Kiran say below, "Let's get this show on the road!" There was a flash of light, and 5 colored orbs appeared in front of him. Two blue orbs, a colorless orb, and two colored a bright red. The orbs glimmered and seemed to sing in the hushed silence of the room. Kagero looked around the room quickly. She could see Lady Camilla, Lady Ishtar, Oboro, as well as Robin, Cordelia, and Chrom. Lute and Sanaki were sitting in the corner, eyeing the situation as well. Nephenee whimpered behind her.
"What're we gonna do?" She whispered. Kagero swept away some of the spearwoman's hair as she gave her a cocky smile.
"Don't worry," She answered, "I'm not going to let anyone harm a hair on your head."
"Chrom, why are you always so nervous during the summoning ritual?" The lord felt a heavy pat on his back. Robin and Cordelia were looking at him, friendly concern emanating from their bodies. "You look like you've been through hell and back!"
Chrom never felt a pang of jealousy for Robin in his life. Both of them were great friends, who had great relationships and great kids. But he would be lying if he said he didn't feel a little grouchy over the fact that Robin and Cordelia had a whole family, and he and Lucina were still missing …
"Oh, don't worry about me, my friend." He finally said, shakily. "I'm just..." Robin put a hand on his shoulder, and smiled.
"I know, but have some faith, friend." came the response. "We're here for you."
"Gawds, you guys are gross as all heck." Severa muttered nearby. Her face betrayed her emotions though, as she and Morgan were staring at a very tense Lucina. "Lucy," she whispered, "It'll be okay."
"I know that." Lucina was cold, her chin crumpled to dam up whatever emotions were bound to come out either way. Severa looked down, ashamedly. It was clear to her why Lucy and her dad would be so upset. Gerome had his mom and dad, so did Inigo, Owain, and now herself. Lucina had her father for so long, and that was it. To watch everyone else she knew get full families, it was probably taking a toll.
"Alright, here goes nothing." Kiran said, as he touched Breidablik to the orbs. White light filled the room, blinding most everyone. As the light faded, Kiran was standing next to four figures, all sitting on the ground, dazed.
"I apologize for the drastic change in scenary," Kiran began, "I am Kiran, a summoner for the kingdom of Askr. We desperately need the help of heroes such as yourselv-" The summoner was quickly interrupted by a quick slap to the face. An extremely angry young woman stood in front of him, her furious eyes framed by blonde hair and two pink bows.
"'Drastic change in scenery?'" She proclaimed in a haughty tone, "Are you daft or just pretending to be a brain-dead troglodyte? "
"Jeez, that hurt!" Kiran complained, "What on earth is wrong with you?!"
"What is the matter with you, you uncultured imbecile!" She screamed, "Taking young ladies from their homes is essentially kidnapping! You will not get a ransom from me so easily, you cur!"
Robin had a small grin on his face. "Well, at least Donnel and Lissa will be pleased." He commented.
"And you have the audacity to kidnap royalty?" Another slap echoed through the room. Clarisse stood over the summoner, trying to hide a cruel smile.
"Um, please help me, Clarisse."
"I don't know, I think she has a valid point." Clarisse replied slyly.
"Noooooooo!" Kiran whined, as the verbal assault continued.
Chrom was still reeling from the bright flash of light when it hit him. Literally. There was a loud bright sound of armor clanging on the ground, and a muttering woman. Chrom recognized that voice.
"I am so sorry, I just kept walking even though I couldn't see where I was going … Oh what is wrong with-" She paused as she regained her eyesight. "Oh! Um …"
Chrom stared at the familiar heather eyes in front of him. The awkward smile that always felt so pure. The grayish brown hair that seemed to curl in just the right way. The … awkward vertical kneeling pose she would manage to find herself in at least twice a day.
"S-Sumia?" He managed to blurt out.
"Well, who else would manage to fly into you so quickly?" She responded with an awkward grin. "Not that you would want that, but – Oh! Not to assume what you would or wouldn't wan-" An embrace from Chrom shut her up momentarily.
"I missed you." He finally said.
"Missed me?" Sumia asked, "You and Lucina have only been gone a day."
"Well, time doesn't quite work the same here, then." Robin spoke up, as he helped Chrom up from the floor. "We've been here for almost a year now." Cordelia helped Sumia up as well, and embraced her.
"Oh, how I've missed you, my friend!" She exclaimed, hugging the queen of Ylisse tightly.
Sumia laughed, "Okay then! I missed you too!" She said.
Cordelia gave her friend a small smile. "I think that somebody else has been waiting for you for a long time." She motioned to Lucina, who was unsuccessfully holding back tears. Sumia approached her, sweeping some stray blue hairs from her face.
"Oh my little one, you haven't seen me for a whole year?" Sumia asked quietly. "I don't think I could bear that." Lucina let out a strangled cry of happiness before hugging her mother tightly. "Shhhh, it's okay now, honey."
Robin and Cordelia turned to Severa, who was wiping away tears of her own next to a beaming Morgan. She looked at him, and tried to frown.
It was much too difficult for her.
Owain didn't know why he was here. He had promised Elise he would join her in book club. She said she had urgent business to speak to him about, and he knew Leo would guilt trip him if he didn't go. Plus, he always had a soft spot for his liege's sister. But Leo also asked him to report back on the new heroes and their capabilities. Owain was always a sucker for important tasks. If this continues at this rate, I may actually be late. He thought to himself.
"Worried about something, Odin Dark?" Camilla noted slyly.
"Not one bit, milady!" Owain shouted, "Prince Leo gave me an important task, after all! One that only the great Odin Dark can fulfill!"
"Of course," came the reply, "But don't forget to take time for yourself as well."
Beruka tapped on Camilla's armor. "Milady, one of the new heroes is approaching." A small, thin girl with wild blonde hair was walking towards the group with an unmistakable swagger. Owain felt a sense of familiarity. Or maybe it was the skimpy clothes that he just wanted to cover up with a sweater.
Why was he acting like father would?
"Excuse me, I believe I heard the name Odin Dark?" She asked. Owain flashed his trademark grin instinctively.
"Well, count yourself lucky, as you have found him!" He cried out. The girl clasped her hands together in excitement. "Who, may I ask, are you?" The girl's face immediately shifted to one of confusion.
"I'm Ophelia!" She replied, "Ophelia Dusk? Your daughter?"
"Ophelia Dusk, that is a wonderful name for an aspiring legend! I'll be glad to take you under my-" Owain paused, his eye's growing exponentially. "What?" He asked lamely.
"Do you not remember your own daughter?!" She yelled at the dark mage.
"I-I don't recall having a daughter …" He began to explain frantically. Ophelia began to pout, tears welling in her eyes. "N-no! Please don't cry …"
Camilla giggled. "Oh my," She stated to herself, "Things are much more interesting than I thought they would be."
"Hey Ophelia," A pink haired girl that had been orbiting the group had finally joined them. Owain had seen her once before, yesterday when Robin was showing some new heroes around. "I'll beat up uncle Odin for you, if you'd like."
"Wait … Uncle Odin?!" Owain cried out. "And why do you want to beat me up?"
"You're making a cute girl cry!" She proclaimed, "An unforgivable offense!" Owain's expression flattened.
"Ah, you must be Laslow's daughter." He stated flatly.
"The name is Soleil!" She screeched. "And how did you figure that out so quickly when you don't even recognize Ophelia?!"
"I guessed," Owain responded, before turning to a crying Ophelia. He patted her head gently. "And I may not know you now, but I can tell you're my daughter." Ophelia sniffed in response. "If you want to forgive me, I'd like to get to know you better."
"O-okay." She conceded, before hugging Owain tightly. He smiled softly, and returned the gesture.
Robin felt a chill run down his spine. Cordelia touched his shoulder, concern showing on her face.
"Everything alright, darling?" She asked.
"I think so," he replied, "I just got that feeling you get whenever your dad comes around." Cordelia scowled.
"You're the one who gets drunk with him," she stated, "It's weird."
"Well, the only time I feel this way is when -"
"OH! It's Auntie Aversa!" He heard Morgan cry. Robin closed his eyes in resignation.
"When Aversa comes to visit?" Cordelia asked smugly.
"When the old hag comes to visit." Robin grumbled. He felt a hand smack the back of his head.
"You mean 'sweet younger sister', don't you?" The tan, white-haired witch stood tall over the hunched Robin. "I would expect a better greeting from my big brother!"
The tactician whipped his head around. "Not a chance, you ol-" A pair of fingers pinched Robin's left cheek. "Sweet l-little sister!" Aversa wrapped her arms around Robin.
"I missed you too, Robin." She turned her attention to Cordelia. "And how is my wonderful sister-in-law?" Cordelia crossed her arms. Aversa and Cordelia had reconciled during the war, mostly for the sake of Severa and Morgan, but to call them friends was more than just a stretch.
"I'm doing perfectly fine!" She proclaimed, "Robin and I are extremely happy."
"Oh? I'm glad to hear it." Aversa gave her a dark smile. "I wouldn't have it any other way."
"Well, Aversa, I suppose we can give you a tour." Robin said, rubbing his pinched cheek. Aversa clapped her hands together.
"Ah, yes! I would adore that." She cast a look in the direction of Chrom, Lucina and Sumia. "I suppose we should wait for your friends, though?" It wasn't an unpleasant sounding question, much to Robin's surprise.
"Yeah, and Maribelle as well." He finally said. Aversa nodded, before Morgan pulled on her cape.
"Aunt Aversa! You're gonna love this place!" She exclaimed. "There are so many places where you can pull awesome pranks on dad!"
"Now that is exciting!" Aversa's voice took on a completely different tone, "You have to promise to show your aunt around too, okay?"
"You got it! Severa and I will show you around, right?" Severa could only mutter something before being locked into an embrace of her own.
Robin looked at Cordelia, only to see a slight smile on his wife's face. "What're you smiling for? Now Aversa and Morgan are going to get into trouble."
"I know," she answered simply, "She might've been our enemy once, but she really is part of the family, isn't she?"
The expression on Robin's face was indescribable. "Did Aversa hex you?"
"Not at all." Cordelia giggled at the insinuation. "I don't know if we'll ever tell her, but she is good with the kids, and she's not all unpleasant."
"I suppose not," Robin reluctantly agreed, "I suppose not."
Kiran now sported two lumps on his head from Maribelle's aggressive attacks. Who knew a parasol could do so much damage?
"Thank goodness that's over," he lamented, "And it looks like the others have taken the initiative and started showing the new heroes around on their own."
"I told you it was a bad idea." Clarisse noted smugly. Kiran kept note of this.
"Ugh, so we summoned Aversa, Maribelle, Sumia, Ophelia, and …" The summoner paused, looking at his notepad. "Who is the fifth?"
"Maybe you didn't pull a fifth?"
"No no no," Kiran replied dismissively, "I specifically did a 5 person summon, and there were no feathers or a book, so we're missing someone."
"Not exactly 'missing', chief." Clarisse and Kiran heard from above. Gaius and Saizo were above the duo, holding a wrapped up figure, who was struggling. "We had a runner!"
Clarisse noticed immediately that Kiran's breathing had quickened. His fists tightened, and his expression was a mixture of fear and anger. Wrapped up above them was a tall figure wearing black armor and a cape seemingly made of fire itself. Her face was defiant, her red eyes shockingly cold, and her hair clashing shades of teal and orange.
"H-h-h-how did you get in here?" Kiran asked in an accusatory tone, "How the hell-"
"I was about to ask you the same thing, Summoner." Her voice was cold, calculating.
"Who is this?" Clarisse asked. The woman from above spoke first.
"I am Laegjarn, eldest of the House of Muspell," She replied, "Daughter of Surtr, Bringer of Flame."
"Well that doesn't sound good." The archer noted. "What do we do with her? Kiran?" He didn't respond. " … Kiran?"
Kiran was petrified, unable to speak, just staring at the Princess of Muspell. Clarisse turned to her again, and spoke up.
"Take her away for now, we'll figure something out." Gaius and Saizo nodded, and the three were gone in a flash.
"This is bad." Kiran finally said. "There's no way this isn't bad news." Clarisse didn't reply, but her face showed her worry.
Book Club – 4:30 pm
"Cordeliaaaaaa!" Sumia clutched onto the pegasus knight tightly, squealing with delight. "This library is huge!"
"Wait until you see the romance section," Cordelia whispered, "There are shelves upon shelves of everything you can imagine." Sumia's expression instantly grew serious, and she nodded.
"My purpose is clear now." She said, attempting to hide her giddiness. Sumia and Cordelia practically skipped into the library, arm in arm, singing the entire time. A loud 'shhh' from Soren was heard throughout the area.
"Mom is so immature." Severa grumbled. Lucina nodded her head in agreement. "Well we're off, dad; let us know when you guys are done." The duo walked out of the room, though after a few seconds, Robin could've sword he heard singing as well.
"Dad! I want to show Aunt Aversa around the castle." Morgan was bouncing up and down uncontrollably, giving her father puppy dog eyes.
"Yeah, yeah," Robin replied, "Just don't overdo it, you know how people have less energy when they get olde-OW!" He had earned another smack to the back of the head from his adopted sibling.
"Let's go, Morgan," Aversa said sweetly, "Your father has a lot to attend to."
Robin sighed to himself, "I can't believe what I'm saying," He muttered, "But I would've rather dealt with Cynthia and three Owains than her."
"Maribelleeee!"
"Lissa, darling!"
"You two have been screaming that for five minutes!" They heard Leo shout, "Give it a rest already!" Lissa stuck out her tongue, which caused Maribelle to laugh reflexively.
"Oh, it feels like I haven't seen you in ages!" Maribelle said, "Though it has only been a day or so."
"Wait, only a day?!" Lissa cried out, earning another 'shhh!' from Soren, "We've been here for almost a whole year!" Maribelle grabbed Lissa's hand.
"A whole year? Without me? However did you make it?"
"Well, there are a lot of nice people around here. They make it bearable!" Lissa replied brightly. Maribelle covered her face.
"As always, you glisten like the sun." She muttered through her hands. "Wait, does that mean Donnel has not seen me in a year!" She shouted.
"Yeah, but he's taken to it rather well," Lissa replied quickly, attempting to calm Maribelle, "He does a lot of gardening!"
"Gardening?" Maribelle's head snapped up, "Gardening with whom?"
"Well, mostly Nephenee … but I don't think it matters …"
"Nephenee," She replied, "Is that the name of some harlot?"
"Well, not exactly …"
"Has Donnel found another woman while he was wasting away here?"
"Again, I don't think you unders-"
"Lissa, you must take me to Donnel right away!" Maribelle's voice was shaky, "I must wrest his heart away from this 'Nephenee'!" Lissa groaned.
"You could just listen to me for four seconds."
"You're late, Odin!" Elise was pouting in an exaggerated fashion. Owain rubbed his head bashfully.
"I'm sorry, milady, Leo wanted me to observe the summoning ritual!" Elise sulked even more.
"Of course my brother would," she replied, "Never worries for his dearest sister though!" She looked at Odin. "Was there anyone interesting, at least?"
"Y-yeah. You could say that." Owain's face grew redder by the second. There was a loud thunderous sound behind him, and Ophelia stood tall upon a table.
"Ophelia Dusk is here!" She proclaimed. "Never fear!" As she continued to monologue, Elise crept up to Owain and whispered in his ear.
"She reminds me of you, just a little bit."
"She's supposedly my daughter."
"Who's the mom?"
"Ummm, I'm not sure yet." Owain had a hope, but he didn't want to voice it. He didn't want to be disappointed. Ophelia was taken out of her soliloquy and looked at the two people in front of her.
"Oh. Hey mom." She said casually.
Kiran sat at the library, taking in all the chaos. Clarisse had been approached by Kagero and Nephenee, so she had left him alone to think. That's all he had been doing; think think think. Clarisse had kissed him, then completely did a 180 and wouldn't even talk to him. It was giving him a headache. He wasn't even sure if he liked Clarisse in that way, but the option was never there in his mind.
"That furrowed brow of yours could crush the strongest plate." Came a bemused voice in front of him. Kiran looked up and squeaked in surprise. Laegjarn stood in front of him, her harsh gaze piercing through his body. "I suppose it suits you."
"W-w-w-w-w-what on earth are you doing here?" He cried out. The princess smiled.
"Your dear friend Alphonse welcomed me as a guest." She replied. "While I'm in this castle, I can do you no harm, both from your ritual and just common courtesy." She pulled up a chair, and sat down. A book entitled A History of Askran War curled in her clawed gauntlets.
"You can't read that!"
"Will you stop me?" Laegjarn asked wryly, "I'm under the assumption you won't."
"Of course I won't, but what about common courtesy?"
"Common courtesy also dictates that you don't hold secrets from people whom you hold dear." She looked up from her book, staring straight at Kiran. "That archer, for example."
"How do you know that?" He hissed back. Laegjarn chuckled.
"I've seen that look before," she replied, "I'm fairly certain I've held that look before, when I was first engaged."
" … What happened?"
"My father had him executed for treason." came the short reply.
"Oh. He's a real charmer, huh?" She didn't respond, choosing to instead flip through her book. Kiran looked at the princess. She had an air of nobility he hadn't seen yet, in the way she sat and flipped through the book. Why she brought up Clarisse, he had no idea. Perhaps to throw him off? Make him feel even more nervous? Well, two could play at that game. "I still don't understand how I summoned you," Kiran finally said, "I've never summoned an enemy before."
"Perhaps I'm not an enemy, then."
"You conquered another country."
"We are at war, Kiran. You know this much."
"You led your father straight to Gunnthra, where he tortured her to death; or did you forget that?" He saw Laegjarn tighten her fingers against the book. "In my eyes you are an accomplice to murder."
"I did nothing of the sort," She growled, "How dare you say such a thing?"
"Then how did Surtr get there? How did he happen to know where to go?"
"I haven't the slightest clue!" She hissed, "Do you think I wanted her to die in such a way? I have lost siblings and friends to my father's wrath, I have seen enough!"
"Then why are you still with your father?" Kiran pleaded. Laegjarn hid her face behind the book.
"Laevatain," She replied, "She's all I have left, and I need to protect her."
Kiran was silent for a moment. "I see." He said quietly. The summoner mulled over this new information for quite a few minutes, before speaking again. "Pardon my rude behavior, it was not right to accuse you of such things."
"It's quite alright, I understand why you would feel that way."
"We should help each other out, then." Laegjarn looked at the summoner, intrigued, "We can stop your dad, save your sister, and end this war, I think. We just need a good plan."
"A plan?" Laegjarn looked at Kiran's face again. It lacked all the weakness it had before. It was determined and hopeful.
"Meet me in the war room in two hours." He said, "We will release you as a sign of good faith afterwards."
"Father will only consider it a showing of weakness and poor planning." Laegjarn responded.
"That's what I'm counting on."
She smiled. "Well, keep your secrets,"
"I'm still wondering if you're even you, and not Loki in disguise." Kiran admitted.
"She knows that if she came back as me, I'd lop off her head where she stood." Laegjarn's face was stony and cold, "I know that's not much, but it is something."
"I'll bet on it."
She chuckled. "You are more interesting than you let on, Summoner of Askr."
"You are much kinder than you let on, Princess of Muspell." Laegjarn smiled slightly at that, as Kiran took his leave of her. When she was certain he was gone, she called out to a bookshelf behind her. "He's gone now, you can come out of hiding." Clarisse peeked from behind the shelf, glowering at the princess. She carefully took the seat that Kiran had been in.
"So what do you want?" Clarisse asked menacingly, "Why did you bring me up earlier?"
"Perhaps I knew you were hiding," Laegjarn answered smugly, "Perhaps you two were so painfully awkward that I felt a need to help. Or," she closed her book and stared into the archer's eyes, "The summoner has intrigued me so that I want to be your rival."
"Don't play games with me," Clarisse growled, "I'll put you in the ground." Laegjarn frowned again.
"I'm telling you the truth," She answered, "He is rather interesting."
"Yeah."
"I imagine that he's fun to talk to when he isn't working himself to death."
"Yeah." They were silent for a minute or two, eyeing each other carefully. "Kiran mentioned that shapeshifter. You sure you aren't her?" Laegjarn thought about it for a second, then removed her right gauntlet. In a flash, she cut one of her fingers on a page of the book she held. Laegjarn hissed in pain for a brief moment, but then showed Clarisse the scratch. A small droplet of blood was pooling from the cut.
"Whenever Loki is injured in a form, she has to change back."
"Gods, I didn't mean you had to hurt yourself!" Clarisse shouted, "What is wrong with you?!"
"If I am to help you, you must know I'm fighting earnestly!"
"Are you still going on about that?! You don't even know me!"
"Well, somebody has to push you!" Laegjarn yelled, "I've barely known both of you and that was more painful than a thousand of these cuts!"
"I already kissed him," Clarisse grunted, "So I don't need help."
"And yet you two looked like children, barely able to speak to each other."
Clarisse sighed. "So what's the deal, then?" She asked.
"It's simple," She stated, "You have until tomorrow to confess your feelings for your summoner."
"Or else?"
"Or else I get free reign to try to woo him as well."
"That's … not a lot of time." Clarisse thought about the phone, lodged in the pouch on her belt. Just the sight of his phone would've been enough, if Nephenee and Kagero hadn't broken it.
"You did have a head start."
"Why are you so interested in him?" Clarisse insisted. "You don't even know him." Laegjarn smiled.
"I'll tell you tonight, if it matters so much to you." With that, she stood up, and walked out of the library. Clarisse shouted in exasperation, it wasn't as if she was already dealing with her own feelings, now she had this to worry about!
"What is wrong with you idiots today?!" She heard Soren scream from across the library.
I'M ALIIIIVE!
I'm super sorry to everyone who's been waiting, these last few months have been insane! But I feel much more put together now! I hope you all enjoy this chapter.
As always, I love complaints, comments, reviews, questions and the like! You guys are awesome and thank you for sticking around!
Next Chapter will be the 2nd part of Tech Hunting: Tech Hunting 2!