Chapter 4: The Valliere situation
I woke up from my sleep yawning a bit to get the remaining sleep out, rubbing my eyes I saw Louise already dressed up as she was fixing herself up in front of the mirror
"Good morning Louise" I greeted "I see that you have prepared yourself instead of needing me"
"Of course" the void mage huffed slightly "you may be my familiar but I learned that if I want to be respected, I must make action myself"
I smiled at her answer...even though she still has her personal pride. She is becoming a better person than a typical egoistic one, I just hoped that my mistress can remind herself that she is still new to this type of possibility...
The day passed by with some classes being given as Agnes has agreed to a compromise with Osmond to let the girls study their magic in a few days while the Musketeer captain will train them in other days
The female students were in relief of hearing this announcement as they are not really adapt in to the training yet and most were still adoring the Romalian student since his move here
'At least that woman has a head on her shoulders' I thought sitting with the other familiars in the Vestri courtyard 'though... I still feel that she is hiding something'
My thoughts stopped when I felt something nudge me. I looked up to see Sylphid trying to get my attention
"Oh Sylphid" I blinked "is there something you need?"
The blue dragon didn't reply. She just looked at me with her green eyes before sprawling on the grass with her gaze still on me
I blinked at her action, but felt another nudge making me look down to see Flame looking up at me
'Kirche must've ordered him to stay by my side until class finished...' and knelt down patting the fire salamander's head "did Kirche tell you to watch over me?"
Kirche's familiar cooed at my touch as if he was answering yes. My musing stopped when I heard Sylphid whine that I was patting Flame
'Someone's jealous' I chuckled a bit 'better not cause a scene here'
I stopped my patting and walked toward Sylphid giving her head pats too. The blue dragon cooed at y touch before she pressed her head against my body nuzzling in delight, I laughed a bit before feeling Flame's head rubbing my leg
Knowing that there is no escape from these two. I resigned to their whims and sat on the ground with the two familiars nuzzling against me
'I still feel tired' I yawned again getting their attention "why don't we take a nap you two?" I suggested "it may be a while for our masters to pick us up
Sylphid and Flame blinked before the salamander moved to my left while the blue dragon went to my right. With the three of us feeling comfortable now. Sleep took over me and I yawned one last time before closing my eyes
Class finished with Louise rubbing her head from the lesson today
"Ugh..." she groaned "I though today will be relaxing, instead I have to endure a complicated lesson"
Then a pair of mages followed behind her
"I agree Valliere" Kirche groaned "at least we can relax now"
Louise may want to back talk with her rival but the groan from the fire mage assure her that this is an agreement between them
"Courtyard" Tabitha spoke as she decided not to read a book today "familiars"
"Yes Tabitha" the fire mage nodded "I'm sure spending time with our companions will help us" she smiled 'and I get to see darling again'
Julio looked at Louise and her group as he was once again surrounded by the female students
'I'll let you go Ms. Valliere' he thought with a small smile 'you need your rest' and went a different way with the girls following behind
The three girls arrived at the courtyard to see a surprising sight...Peter Lionheart lying down on the grass, with Flame and Sylphid on either side, sleeping. What's more surprising is that dragon and salamander... they just simply stayed with him in content
"This is surprising" Kirche blinked "our familiars seem to have gotten along fairly well waiting for us"
"We should wake them up" Louise was about to do that but felt her cape tugged "huh?"
"Don't" Tabitha shook her head and looked at the three familiars "peaceful sleep"
"You're right Tabitha" the fire mage nodded "we'll let them stay comfortable for now" she then looked at Louise "why don't we help ourselve to lunch and return for them?"
"Normally I'd refuse what you suggested Zerbst" the void mage huffed "but a meal is appealing right now"
So they left the courtyard to get a nice lunch together without any complaints from the two noble rival families with the wind mage smiling a bit at seeing the two bicker less and less
I groaned a bit waking up from my nap. Sylphid and Flame followed suit yawning before they rubbed their heads against me
"That was a nice nap" I rubbed their heads making them coo "and you two enjoyed my company without fighting"
"You have tamed other familiars Peter" Siesta spoke from behind me "I must say that you prove to be more unique than everyone here"
I turned to see the maid smiling at me holding a basket of bread. Possibly to feed me thanks to her duties as a maid keeping her distant from me
"She got you there partner" Derflinger spoke from it's scabbard "it's kinda hard to believe..."
"Must be my status as a familiar" I hummed "even though I'm human, I can somehow communicate with my fellows in this academy"
And to drive that point home the ground shook a bit and Belldandy popped out before tackling me
"Peter!" Siesta cried at seeing Guiche's familiar on her close friend
"Hey! Easy!" I struggled against the giant mole but she stayed on me and her nose twitched 'wait, Guiche said that his familiar can sniff out jewels' my eyes went wide as I remembered something 'I still have the ring of Albion!'
Immediately I pushed the mole off me and reached into my right pocket pulling out the royal ring prince Wales entrusted me after his second death. Making Belldandy tackle me again as she sniffed the royal ring in my hand enjoying the scent
"Hey!" I shouted closing my hand making sure Guiche's familiar doesn't get close to it "stop that! This isn't for you...!"
Flame and Sylphid blinked at seeing Peter struggle against Belldandy, they were unsure what to do since the mole looked like she wasn't hurting their friend and simply tried to get the animal off him peacefully
Siesta was unsure how to handle this...on one hand her friend was having trouble with the familiar, but on the other hand, she saw him smiling as he kept the item he held away all the while Derflinger snickered every
'I don't know what to do now...' she thought still holding her basket of baked goods
Thankfully she didn't have to wait long as the students finished eating and were about to get their familiars and saw Peter's predicament
"Now that's a sight to behold" Julio blinked
"Guiche's familiar must've decided to visit the academy and check on his beloved today" a female student hummed
"And it seems that Peter got her attention" another giggled
Louise had an eye twitch that her familiar was making a fool of himself, Kirche giggled at seeing her darling look silly. Tabitha stared at the scene but made a small smile at seeing a hero of Tristain be manhandled by a mole
The void mage was about to step in but Montmorency dashed to Peter and rescue him
"Belldandy!" the water mage called "stop messing with sir Peter and get off him...!"
The giant mole flinched a bit from her tone before moving back to the ground and dug the ground to the comforting earth again
Montmorency sighed as she patted her boyfriend's familiar before looking at me "I'm sorry that Belldandy has been unruly to you..."
"It's fine Montmorency" I replied looking at the mole and pocketed the royal ring from view "she must've been anxious to get her jewels today"
"Belldandy did get some jewels I gave her" the water mage sighed "perhaps she just needed more than I thought..."
While the two conversed about feeding schedules, Kirche felt a bit scared and leaned to her rival whispering something
"Should I be wary of Montmorency...?" she kept here eyes on the duo "she looks... close to darling"
"Do not worry Zerbst" Louise responded "Montmorency and I spoke about this because her relationship with Guiche needed help"
"So, they aren't in love...?" Kirche reiterated
"They are not" she assured "Montmorency will ask me first for Peter's company" and looked at her rival "just like you have when you wish for his presence"
The fire mage went quiet on this new information but smiled that she doesn't for her darling being taken away
Siesta on the other hand smiled at the scene. She may have seen a new light about her status as commoner but her life as one still lingered due to society's dogmatic rules lasting longer than her life...but Peter's actions in the past at least helped her hope that in the future status won't be an obvious matter
After the other female students took their familiars away from the courtyard. I was with my master, Siesta Kirche, Tabitha and Julio in the courtyard
"That was quite a scenario Peter" the Romalian smiled "I did not think for you to be an entertainer"
"I'm not" I sighed "Belldandy caught the scent the scent of a special jewel I kept with me"
"Oh?" he blinked curiously
"It was a gift from someone I met before" I stated "and he gave it to me as a sign of trust"
"I see" Julio hummed before walking away 'no doubt the prince of Albion saw you, an outsider, as the better being due to the civil war'
The day passed and most people were already asleep in their rooms except for me as I had cleaning duty again...
'It sure has been a while since I did this' I finished the washing part of the laundry 'I guess this moment helped me remember how I handled Louise thanks to her mistreatment before summoning me' and wiped my forehead feeling a bit sweaty "now all that is left is the drying part"
"Maybe we could help you Peter" Siesta giggled
"Yes" Matilda followed "why don't you rest now"
I turned around to see the two smiling at me
"It seems that you two have extra energy for tonight" I sighed feeling my body ache
"I even brought you dinner" the made presented a cart of food for me
"Siesta is right" the former thief nodded "let us finish your work as you relax for the moment"
I nodded at their words and went for the cart and ate my meal while the two went on the laundry and finished my work
'I'm glad that Matilda is adjusting back in this academy' I thought 'and I'm sure Siesta's company helped her stay calm since her innocence reminds the woman of her half sister'
The chore was finished and the two smiled at their accomplishment before leaving me with the finished laundry of the night and greeted me a good night
'It's still something for me to end up here' I looked at the two moons in the night sky 'this world has yet to reason themselves with each other and make peace...'
I carried Louise's clothes back into her room and fixed up her clothes for tomorrow before getting my sleep for the night
Daylight came and I was at the courtyard enjoying the fresh air myself, today's classes ended early and Agnes along with her squad not being around to train today
'No doubt that queen Henrietta needs her trusted bodyguards with her right now...' I hummed
Louise came by and was next to me relaxing in the sunlight after her lesson
"This is nice" the void mage smiled "a warm day in this academy"
"I thought you'd be with Julio right now" I hummed "he was perhaps the first man interested in you Louise"
"I admit that Romalian is surprising" she said calmly "but I prefer your company Peter" she looked at me "you at least let me breathe with making so much comfort"
I smiled at her answer, she didn't realize that my company is soothing her noble pride
"I see that you have made yourselves comfortable" a new voice spoke
We turned to see Siesta pushing a food cart toward us and smiled warmly
"Ah Siesta" I waved "you arrived just in time"
Growl...
My stomach made that noise and the two girls looked at me in surprise
"Sorry about that" I rubbed the back of my head "I was called in by professor Colbert this morning about the dragon's raiment"
Siesta giggled while Louise simply smiled
After eating lunch together the three of us went on enjoying the quiet together
Sadly that moment of quiet was interrupted
"Louise!" a female voice shouted making said girl jump in fright at hearing that familiar tone
Siesta and I blinked at her reaction and saw a woman with long long blonde hair wearing a white blouse and long violet skirt looking stern
"Eleanor!" Louise gulped at seeing her strict sibling and shivered at her gaze
"It's time for you to come home" she declared "now...!"
The older sister grabbed her arm and was about to pull her away but stopped when a hand halted the woman
"I'm sorry you cannot take her away Ms. Valliere" Peter said calmly surprising her and making Louise shift in fright
"You dare stop me...?" Eleanor took out her wand with her fee hand
"Not at all" the familiar responded "if you take Louise so suddenly it would cause a slight panic in the academy"
The reason was sound to Eleanor and she let go of her grip "you make a valid point" she hummed "very well, I will inform the headmaster about this" she then looked to her younger sister "you better be at the carriage when I do this Louise" and turned to Peter "you and the maid will join us to our home young man"
"Of course"
As Eleanor went to Osmond and place her request in this. Leaving me to stare at the woman while Siesta is soothing Louise on this situation
'What a strict lady...' I then helped Louise on her feet "we better start packing things Louise"
"Yes Peter" the void mage sighed "we must make haste" and grabbed my hand "my sister doesn't like to wait long...!"
Louise and Siesta went ahead on the packing things and since I had the least stuff to pack. I decided to inform Kirche, Tabitha and Montmorency about this...
The fire mage was distraught that someone would have the gall to take m away and was about to make chaos by dueling Eleanor to have me stay but Tabitha used her magic to restrain her friend and warned the girl to be calm and wait for him to come back later
Montmorency took it better since she will be busy taking care of her boyfriend's familiar and will inform Louise when the time comes
I was at the front gate with the Valliere sisters waiting on one carriage while Siesta was moving the luggage on the roof
"I see that everyone is ready for the trip" I said
"It will be faster if that maid can move better" Eleanor huffed
Louise wanted to respond on her sister's tone, but refrained herself since she feared her right now. She blinked upon hearing a grunt and saw Peter help fix the luggage and smiled at her
"Everything is fixed now Ms. Valliere" I called while helping Siesta down
"Splendid" the older Valliere nodded before opening the door "now come, we need to move now!"
When the carriage left Tristain academy. The group didn't realize there was an audience watching them leave
"Darling..." Kirche whined at seeing him leave
"Have faith" Tabitha said to her friend before rubbing the ribbon on her hair "he's strong" her words made the fire mage slightly better and hoped he return soon
"I hope that Louise's family can understand her situation" Jean sighed
"I doubt that Colbert" Matilda shook her head "somehow Louise will be facing turmoil"
"Indeed" Osmond nodded "if they find out Louise is a void mage. Then I doubt she will be given freedom due to the burden of carrying such great power" but then chuckled a bit "if that ever happens, I have no doubt Peter will help the young Valliere" and looked at the sky seeing a flock of birds fly "because he was meant to be her protector"
'Peter...' Montmorency thought about the familiar 'if you can bring Louise back here' she clenched her hands a bit 'then I need to ask her for your company'
The trip was completely quiet... Louise and Siesta were uncomfortable due to Eleanor as the woman crossed her arms. No doubt the parents forced her to do this, I would try to make conversation in this but since this a world where society is divided between magic and non-magic folk...I decided to stay quiet for Louise's sake
I quickly grasped Siesta's hand helping her calm down before my eyes looked forward and saw Eleanor gazing at me
"May I help you?" I blinked
"You are different from other commoners..." the blonde Valliere stated making me raise a brow "normally someone like you would be frightened like the maid for being with nobles" she uncrossed her arms "you are calm and mannered enough to stay quiet until spoken to"
"You should thank your little sister" I answered making the woman flinch "had it not been for Louise teaching me...I would have struck you for grabbing her so blatantly"
The blonde Valliere turned to her sister, who was laughing awkwardly at this before looking at me again
"I suppose that I was too forceful earlier..." she admitted surprising Louise "may I have your introduction young man"
"Peter Lionheart" I responded "and the maid you commanded to join us is Siesta"
"Thank you for answering my question" Eleanor nodded before looking at the window "oh" she smiled a bit "we arrived"
I followed her gaze and my eyes went wide at seeing a wide landscape... it had hills, a lake and heavy lush of plants everywhere!
'If this is how the Valliere family live their lives...' I blinked at the scene before me 'I can see why the engagement with Wardes was approved'
We stopped at the Valliere family estate and I can almost believe it to be like Henrietta's home but that would be comparing a pearl with a diamond
Louise and Eleanor went ahead to meet the other members of the family while Siesta and I helped the servants with the luggage as the stuff was heavy due to Louise having handle herself often...
After helping, I was with Siesta in a private room for servants, no doubt that Louise was having a family quarrel about the war in Tristain
'If she's being controlled again...' I frowned at imagining her being forced into something again 'no doubt the news is making the family paranoid' before sighing a bit 'I just hope someone in this family supports her...'
It was noon and Siesta is beside me as we walked around a bit
"Peter" she called "do you think Ms. Valliere is in trouble...?"
"No idea" I answered honestly "but since this is a big home for one family" and turned to her "since we are forced to join in, it would be better that we are separate for the moment and do our jobs"
"But Peter...!" the maid tried to argue my statement
"We are assigned into one room Siesta" I retorted "after working we can have time together at night"
She stopped when I said the words together and night in one sentence. The maid looked at me for deceit and found none... with a nod she walked away to find the other servants in the estate and give her aide in the work
"That was smooth of you partner" Derflinger spoke from my back "didn't think that you would say that to her"
"Considering that I saved her and her home" I groaned "I'd say she deserves something memorable for almost being a casualty"
I walked around the field to see more land. Sheesh, if this keeps up I might end up getting lost...
"Peter?" Louise's voice spoke "you're not complaining about the sudden move?"
I turned to my master looking at me in surprise wearing a green dress and alone. No doubt that whatever conversation the family had caused her misery
"Did you have any arguments Louise?" I asked despite the warning I felt about this
"It was..." the girl shook a bit at recalling the interaction she had with her family earlier "okay..."
I narrowed my eyes at Louise's answer... she hesitated. So I stayed next to her as she told me about the pressure she was in due to the war against Reconquista and thanks to her participating in that...she was now being used as a bargaining chip for political alliances
I balled my hands and kept my anger in check. I have to remember this world was more on middle ages, development is slow and needs a big, big incident to change certain practices
"Louise" I sighed at finally calming down "you may be the youngest in this family, but you should've been acknowledged for what happened in Tarbes"
"I wish it were that simple Peter" Louise sighed "no matter what my achievements are, they always see me as a child..."
My fury was rising again...I can understand the part of protecting the weak, but to deny the achievements simply because it wasn't meant to be is ridiculous...!
I took deep breathes for Louise was trembling. She had done great things and most of her family refused to acknowledge that. I wrapped my arms around Louise tightly getting the girl's attention
"Louise, no matter what I think you are capable of being greatness" I spoke with certainty "don't let the masses say otherwise..."
The void mage was surprised by my words and action. She grasped my arm and felt safe right now...we stayed quiet for a few minutes before she realized something
"I almost forgot!" Louise looked at me "I haven't introduce you to my family yet...!"
She got out of my arms before pulling me back to the family home
"Louise slow down!" I called losing by balance thanks to her fast walk
"No time!" she panicked "Siesta was already welcomed thanks to her maid duties...!"
I was at the dining room panting a bit with Louise fixing herself up to look presentable, giving enough time to see the other members of the Valliere family
I saw a man next to Eleanor, he had blonde hair on his head and face wearing a monocle wore violet robes with his right hand holding his cane/wand. He was the father of this family Duc Valliere, the Centurion
Then I saw a woman wearing an ornate pink dress, she had long pink hair tied in a bun with a stare that says obey or be harmed. I can already tell that she is Karin Valliere mother of Louise and archrival of Maria Zerbst...
And next to the woman was a Louise look-alike, she was clearly older than my master and had a body most men would desire to gaze and touch. She also had a gentle appearance that actually made me think she was adopted in this family...
I think she was called Cattleya...yes, Louise told me about her once before the love potion incident. An earth mage prodigy but had a sickness that made her body fragile and an easy target by anyone... no doubt to prove that she was to remind the family that life should be cared, not groomed for personal gains
"Greetings Valliere family" I bowed formally "I am Peter Lionheart, I was a traveler around Halkagenia before stumbling into Louise's life"
"I see this...hero understands his position" the male Valliere hummed making me stiff at how he emphasized on hero like I shouldn't deserve it
"Indeed" Karin nodded "and he has at least proven himself capable to handle his weight"
"I can't believe my sister associated herself with an outsider..." Eleanor huffed in disgust
I kept myself calm that the two Valliere women would disregard me, but then again... the line between nobility and commoner is painfully obvious. I turned to see Louise shake, no doubt remembering her time back in the academy on how she was proven a zero before summoning me
"Please be gentle with your words" Cattleya spoke out "after all... this is the person who singlehandedly fought against Wardes... and won" she reminded making the family flinch at their lack of insight believing that man can be trusted
Louise calmed down hearing her sister's soothing voice making me blink. Despite that woman's frail condition, she was no doubt the only one who loved and supported her
'At least it wasn't a total loss for you' I smiled at Louise 'Henrietta would love to meet her if she ever was allowed to personally visit that is...'
Thanks to the middle Valliere's verbal reminder, all of us sat down and have a quiet meal making my master relieved that one of her sisters carried love toward her. Which gave me a smile that there was someone in this family who doesn't undermine Louise
After having a bite I was given a tour by Cattleya while the parents and Eleanor decided to have a private conversation about the war against Reconquista again...
"How are you liking our home sir Lionheart?" the gentle Valliere asked with a smile
"It's...soothing to say the least" I replied before looking at her "though I didn't realize your family was so strict"
"That is the price of being a Valliere" she sighed sadly
I was given the history of why the Valliere name was so crucial in Tristain... suffice to say, I didn't think being one was such a big deal!
'I should've realized...' I slapped myself both mentally and physically surprising my guide 'Louise told me that she was friends with Henrietta. That was the only hint I had on how the Valliere family had strong recognition in this country'
"Are you alright?" Cattleya blinked at my action
"I'm fine Ms. Valliere" I waved "I just felt silly that I forgot about your family had interactions with Tristain royalty"
"So Louise told you of her past with the current queen" she giggled "I find it nice that she was able to befriend her highness back then"
The next hour we talked about how Louise was in our perspectives: Cattleya sees Louise as a young girl with great magic potential . I see her as a strong individual who took challenges in the belief of strengthening herself as an individual
"I'm surprised that she was able to handle the tasks queen Henrietta assigned her" the middle Valliere blinked before smiling "I thank you for helping my little sister"
"It's not a problem Ms. Valliere" I smiled "I'm just fulfilling the contract we formed back at the academy"
"Contract...?" she blinked curiously
'Oh right Louise hasn't revealed her magic element' I realized 'better make something up fast!'
"When Louise was still learning her magic, most of the students there see her work as trouble since they feared to be outdone by her" I said making a half truth "so they decided to undermine her at every chance she took"
"Oh my!" Cattleya gasped at my words and imagined the scenarios
"But when I made my stop in that academy" I continued "I saw her face off against a couple of her classmates on her own"
"Oh dear" the Valliere blinked at this revelation 'and my sister looked so capable and eager when she was going to that academy'
"After seeing her handle the trouble, I decided to form a contract with Louise to show that help was necessary" I smiled "she wouldn't have to face trouble alone anymore"
"You are a wonder Peter" I blinked at her saying my name so casually "I know Louise is capable of doing things, but I also worry on her hardships" my eyes went wide when I saw her bowing before me "I give my thanks that you are helping her"
I can't believe that such a kind soul like her was in a family like this...then again, there has to be some oddities with in the family...
"You shouldn't be doing this Ms. Cattleya" I helped her be upright "I wouldn't want you in trouble if your family sees you act like this"
"A thoughtful one too" she smiled "Louise is lucky to have you"
We returned to the home only to see Louise running out with tears on her face and turned to the other members of the family looking both surprised and disappointed at what had happened
"Looks like something happened with Louise while Ms. Cattleya guided me around" I turned to Louise's sister "get any information you have of what happened happened here"
"Yes Peter" Cattleya nodded "save my sister before she does something dangerous...!"
My eyes hardened at the worse case scenario I'm imagining right now 'Louise...don't get too far!' and ran to the direction she ran
Louise was on a boat sitting alone crying her heart out
'Why...?' she shook 'why is it hard for them to see my achievements...?'
All her life she was treated as nothing, the short comforts her sister Cattleya gave her endurance against the harshness and gave her a drive to endure and make herself strong. She was able to befriend a royal member of the Tristain name and even got a medal for stopping a war from a rebel group the usurped the Albion kingdom!
Alas...her parents and eldest sister failed to see those and deny her the freedom to live her life. But then she remembered someone who helped her in this path...
"Peter"
Yes, her familiar...even though he was not much at first, he has proven himself more capable than any knight Tristain could offer. And there was the magic he used use, Gaia memories, so powerful that even a square mage would feel inferior to
"I wish you could be here with me on this boat" she whispered quietly
"I'm glad you feel that way" his voice spoke suddenly from her back
The void mage yelped and fell backwards only to feel something wet, she looked up to see her familiar soaked and smiling
"Peter!" Louise sat up to see that her familiar swam all the way to her "how did-?"
"I saw you from the dock" was his answer "I was worried sick so I sawm toward you" he then shivered "I don't suppose you have your wand at hand to dry me up?"
Without thinking she pulled out her wand casting a random spell creating an explosion, rocking the both they were in
The two of us coughed at the explosion and I was at least dry with some minor scorches on my clothes
"Still strong as ever..." I mumbled
"I'm sorry Peter" my master coughed as well
"No problem" I replied before grabbing her hands "look I know that things haven't been going well with your family Louise" I looked at her in the eye "but know that whatever happens here won't make me stop being your friend"
Louise had her eyes wide at Peter's declaration. Even though he called her friend back in the familiar exhibition when Henrietta visited back in the academy. She was still iffy on his words at that time
The two were quiet on the boat with Peter rowing back to shore and guided the void mage back to her home as she was now in her thoughts on this whole disaster
Peter gazed at Louise every few minutes on the way back to the estate knowing very well that the other members will try to control the girl again
When the two reached Louise's home they saw an upset Cattleya looking at a still stubborn family
"Louise, stay behind me" I said as the authoritative members turned their eyes to us
"Ah the young man has returned with Louise" they smiled albeit in a strained manner
"Apologies Peter" the middle Valliere spoke surprising the other members of the Valliere family "I tried to sway their demands to let Louise go back to the Academy" she crossed her arms with a huff "but as you can see, they refuse to see that she can be capable by herself"
"That doesn't excuse her on going into dangerous situations!" Karin shouted making the girl flinch in fear
"I will not allow my youngest go into danger!" Duc tapped his cane on the ground "Louise will be under our care and marry a noble family of our choosing!"
"So this is how you handle things?" I snorted getting the parent's attention "simply using your daughter as a means to keep your authority...?"
"You dare-!?" Eleanor tried to put me in my place but stopped when I glared at her with all my hate
"I've only been here for a while and I see that this family has problems" I turned to the middle Valliere "Cattleya, please come and comfort your sister"
Said woman stood up and made her way to Louise willingly
"Cattleya!" Duc tried to stop his second daughter "do not-!"
But his words were cut short when I ran forward and restrained him
Thump!
I pushed the man to the floor and placing my foot on his chest keeping him there while disarming him of his cane before he could us his magic recklessly as he groaned from the sudden move
"Father!" Eleanor pulled out her wand "you will-!"
Thwack!
I used Duc's cane/wand to disarm her wand and moving quickly I threw the woman on the ground next to her father before using the cane on them and stomped on it to the two restrained
"Hrk...!" the two Valliere's felt the pressure as my foot on Duc's cane kept them still
"The Valliere name is meant to show respect both inside the family and around the kingdom" I hissed at how this family acted in front of me "but I see it as a means to abuse authority to control anything...!"
"I will have you know outsider" Karin spoke trying to distract me as she slowly reached for her wand "our family has earned respect very well"
Knowing what she will do, I pulled out Derflinger and placed the sharp edge over the necks of my hostages making the woman stop while Duc and Eleanor had wide eyes on seeing the blade near them
"You will not have your way Ms. Valliere" I growled "I may be an outsider, but I see Louise handle herself without your influence" I glared at the one responsible for her misery "you believe doing this is for her safety?" I spat at recalling how she was unable to fight back "answer this, have you ever made the effort to hear the words Louise spoke...?"
Louise blinked at her familiar's question, but she felt herself wrapped in Cattleya's arms. Being the caring person her sister was...she wouldn't let go of the girl while keeping eyes on the situation
Karin couldn't utter a reply on my question, proving me right while Cattleya held her little sister tightly at this revelation. My fury couldn't be held in anymore... so I did the one thing that was possible right now
Crack...!
I broke Duc's cane with my foot before using the broken sharp ends to stab the man and Eleanor...!
"GYAH...!" the two screamed in pain before I kicked them away with a thin blood trail on the clean floor
In my adrenaline I ran to Karin and tackled her making the lady Valliere fly back and lose her grip on the wand making roll on the ground
Louise was beyond shocked at seeing Peter act like a threat...it was seeing his fury again when Siesta was taken against her will by the former Count Mott
He picked up the wand and turned to Karin carrying a cold look as she regained consciousness before he lifted his foot and stomped on her stomach making the woman cough out
"You made Louise what she is, you deny your folly on her rebellious actions" he said calmly "you are at fault, not her..." and pointed his sword at her throat "I came here to see how Louise is treated by her own kin" and inched the edge closer "you cared only for the legacy instead the the bearers"
The void mage couldn't stay still anymore, she got out of Cattleya's arms and wrapped her arms around her familiar
"Peter, please stop" she said holding me tightly "this isn't right..."
"Are you sure?" he still held sword at the woman's neck "your misery is thanks to your family's petulance" he still had fury against the woman "shouldn't they deserve punishment?"
"Yes I admit that is required" she looked at her mother "but if it wasn't for them" and then looked at him "I wouldn't have encountered you"
I blinked at her words in surprise as my anger started to subside
"My struggles made me strong" she said "my drive made me want to prove my worth" and moved close to me "through that I found someone I can trust..." her eyes watered on Peter's back "so please...don't be reckless for my sake"
I blinked at Louise's request. My eyes looked at Karin as she looked away denying her faults again, but I know she was shaken after what I did
"You are lucky that Louise stopped me Karin" I moved my sword away "but I know you will ignore me and try to get Louise again" and removed my foot "you may be above your daughter... but I kept her safe from danger" my eyes narrowed "meaning I am worth something to her and you can't deny that..."
The woman picked herself up, looked at her youngest daughter before huffing and walked away while the servants, who conveniently watched quietly, took Eleanor and Duc to be healed from their minor injuries
I pulled myself out of Louise's hug and kneeled before the void mage
"You have made a brave decision Louise" I smiled "you stopped me before I made a grave mistake"
"Peter"
"He isn't wrong" Cattleya stepped in "despite my frustrations to this mishap and glee at seeing your friend stand up for you" patted her little sister's head "he would've been under arrest for assault" and smiled "you saved him Louise"
"Cattleya" Louise blinked before she fell into my arms and passed out
"Looks like your sister has used up all her energy" I sighed and carried my master "care to be my guide me again so I can put her to bed?"
Cattleya giggled at seeing me care for her little sister and walked ahead signaling me to follow her, after reaching Louise's room and tucked her in, Louise's sister and I walked at the halls side by side
"I don't think I'll be welcomed back into this home when I leave..." I grumbled
"It is to be expected" Cattleya sighed "my parents take their pride too far sometimes"
"Like your family rivalry with the Zerbst's from Germania...?"
The middle Valliere blinked at me for my knowledge about that. I told her about my encounter with Kirche and the girl's mother making a surprise visit at the academy while leaving out the personal reasons of that encounter...
"I'm surprised that Louise was able to survive that" she blinked "mother has made a strong effort on us to either fear or hate them" and looked at me "although I should thank you for helping Louise keep her sanity at encountering lady Zerbst"
"I'm just doing my job" I assured her 'and I hope to end this stupid feud between the two families...'
My hands were suddenly grabbed and the middle Valliere looked at me in the eye
"I know it isn't my place to say this" she said "but I'm glad Louise has you beside her" her grasp tightened "I may believe in her potential, but I could not be strong enough to help her" her eyes started to tear up "some sister I am..."
"Don't say that!" I spoke suddenly "even though you are physically challenged, you have proven yourself more than just Louise's supporter" and removed my hands from her grasp "you have given her the love she needed" I looked at her surprised reaction "you even said that she can prove herself capable! So don't say that you are a terrible sister...!"
Cattleya quivered a bit, ever since she heard about her physical weakness...she felt herself incapable to help with anything, she couldn't become a strong mage like her parents wished, she couldn't even leave her home to support Louise without her parent's consent...!
But then came Peter and he told her the words she longed to hear... that she is capable of doing something! Suddenly the middle Valliere wrapped her arms around the guy and cried heavily
"There, there" he patted her back "let everything out" he soothed the woman "I won't stop you..."
After about five minutes, Cattleya let me go and wiped her tears "I'm sorry for looking like this"
"It's okay Cattleya" I chuckled "I've seen enough that this family has emotions hidden, you don't have to worry"
"You know" she smiled a bit "I'm slightly jealous of Louise right now"
"Oh?"
"Ever since my parents learned of my physical condition...they have made sure I was protected from danger" she sighed sadly "forcing me to limit my movements" she huffed "I'm starting to see why Eleanor's engagement was nulled, we Valliere's can be too much on someone" but looked at me with a smile "except for you Peter... you have proven yourself. You truly earned Louise's trust"
I scratched my head feeling bashful right now...
'If this is how Louise felt, I can see why she's close to Cattleya'
I decided to take a walk again leaving my master in her caring sister's company... and hopefully Louise can tell her about the Gaia memories so the the other Vallieres are up to speed on this
I walked into the gardens and saw the sun set as the sky started turning orange while I breathed deeply on how everything happened
'First Louise told me how stupid most of this family is' I rubbed my temples 'now I almost made it worse for her by hurting them'
"Peter!" I heard Siesta's voice and turned to see her worried appearance "what's this about you facing against the Valliere family...!?"
I sighed at this, no doubt the servants helping the injured ones were baffled and told the others about it. And when I gave her the details, the maid did the most common action to me
Slap!
She slapped me
"Okay" I felt the stinging sensation "I deserve that"
But then she went to me and lightly hit my chest with her balled up hands
"Stupid..." she whimpered "you could've ended your life if Ms. Valliere didn't stop you...!" with a few tears falling
"Sorry Siesta" I sighed "but after Louise told me of her unfair treatment" and rubbed her back soothingly "it made me remember your unjust transfer to Mott" I then pushed a to look at her wiping the tears "tell you what, how about I make it up to you by having a romantic dinner tonight?"
"That..." she sniffed a bit still feeling the weight of me facing against Louise's family "would be a nice proposal" and then looked at her outfit "although wearing this doesn't help the romance part..."
"I don't mind Siesta" I assured her with a smile "you wearing that ensemble helps me remember our first encounter in Tristain Academy"
Siesta giggled at my answer and went back to the estate to prepare a meal on their date later. Leaving me alone
"Hey partner" Derflinger finally spoke "I have to hand it to you on defying the Valliere family back there"
"Yeah" I nodded to my sword "I'm thankful you kept quiet ever since we arrived here"
"It's the least I could do" it replied happily "after all, they couldn't handle seeing their youngest daughter going into danger, how do you think they would feel about her being a void mage...?"
"Not to mention the Gaia memories" I added before sighing "sometimes I wish these nobles try to think bigger than themselves"
"You've seen how fear and pride takes hold of people" my sword hummed "they will point at someone and make accusations to feel good"
That was no joke...from what I remember back in my arrival here anyone would make an excuse to not be involved of the current problem
It was night now and I left Derflinger with Louise, after what happened today Cattleya has to know the truth between my relationship with her while also hoping that the next day would be in a...stable occurrence
'I hope Cattleya can keep herself strong on hearing the truth...' I thought making my way to the kitchen 'because I know this is going to be... complicated'
I reached the room to see Siesta humming happily as I saw a table with a plate, a bowl and some silverware on it. But what got my attention was that the table was set up for only for me
No doubt she had a fantasy in mind after I gave her the okay on having our date together...
"Ah master Peter" the maid called to me "please take your seat, dinner will be ready soon"
I had feeling she will surprise me, but I figure she deserves he moment... she has been patient enough to want this
I saw a small pot placed on the table and Siesta lifted the lid to show a warm stew inside
"I hope you enjoy master" the maid smiled at me "I wanted you to have a good meal right now before we enjoy our time together" she poured me a ladle of the stew into my bowl "and don't worry about me master, I ate ahead before seeing you earlier"
I smiled at her kind gesture but my eyes went wide at her bold move by sitting...on my lap!
"Uh...Siesta?" I gulped at how close she is to me
"Yes master?" she looked at me curiously as if her actions were normal
"Nevermind" I mentally sighed and went along with her fantasy "please proceed with feeding me dear maid"
"With pleasure" Siesta giggled and fed me wholeheartedly
I was really given the red carpet treatment here. I never thought Siesta would serve this way...
After finishing the entire pot of stew, I felt myself relaxed as my stomach was filled with food. Siesta wiped my mouth clean as she still sat on my lap feeling comfortable against my body
"How as the meal master Peter?" she asked curiously
"Delicious" I answered with a sigh "I should reward you for such a hearty meal"
"Really master?" she turned away with a blush "I don't think a simple meal like this is worth your reward..."
I turned Siesta's head and gave her a warm kiss
The maid had wide eyes at first before she submitted to her desires and wrapped her arms around him and moaaned onto his lips
"That was..." the maid had a red blush on her face as she pulled back to breathe "amazing"
"And you will get more of it" Peter smiled "because I'm not done rewarding you..."
He leaned in and gave Siesta another kiss and this time both of them held tightly making the moment very heated
The maid groaned feeling her body hot as she felt his tongue tangle with hers... they separated leaving a trail of saliva and looked at each other with want in their eyes
"Peter..." she whimpered "I want more..."
"I know" he nodded "let's make this night memorable"
The two discarded their clothes and saw each other's body figures in the moonlight
"Peter" she spoke
"Shh..." he pressed his finger on her lips "don't talk, let me do this"
Peter sat back on his chair presenting his erect manhood to her making Siesta quiver in anticipation. She walked toward him feeling her own body getting hotter as she got close, the maid sat on his lap feeling him between her legs and shivered at it touching her delicate flower.
Siesta wrapped her arms around her lover's neck as if she exhausted herself upon feeling her skin against his
"Tired already?" he smiled before grabbing her legs and lifted the girl up "I'll continue for us"
In one quick move Siesta was dropped down as she felt him inside her, she righted herself and looked at his eyes
"Master..." she breathed hotly "you have helped feel loved" and gave Peter a quick kiss "let this servant return your generosity with passion!"
The maid moved her self slowly feeling the pleasure grow inside her before moving faster making her lover groan at her tight cavern, he held her hips as she kept her pace up feeling the pleasure grow strong
"Master!" Siesta looked at Peter before hugging him tightly as she was close to her release
"It's okay Siesta!" he grunted feeling himself near as well "let's do it together!"
The two screamed in euphoria as Peter released his essence inside Siesta as she enjoyed the feeling of being filled up
They panted for breathe at such a strong moment of passion. But siesta didn't stop yet...she removed herself from Peter's manhood and saw a mess on the still erect organ, being the dutiful maid she is...went on her knees and started licking it clean
'Master's taste' she thought happily 'I want to serve him like this again...!'
After having finished her job, Peter groaned one last time releasing some more of his seed on the girl's face making her smile before scraping the warm essence into her hand and swallowed it all
"Such a thoughtful servant" he patted her head "how did I get one such as you..."
"You cared for me master" the maid giggled looking at her lover "for it is your love that made me wish to do this..."
After getting our rest from the lovemaking, we lit another set of candles to remove the scent on the room as we dried ourselves up and walked out of the kitchen and headed back to our shared room to sleep for the night
It was quiet walk there and I can see Siesta was smiling at possibly having done the deed with me... no doubt she would want to do that again
"So Siesta" I spoke getting her attention "was our moment together everything you hoped?"
"And more..." she sighed dreamily "I didn't think it was possible that you make me feel so...so..."
"Wonderful?" I inquired
"Yes!" the maid rubbed her stomach "although, with the love you gave me... I might have to work hard to calm you"
"You're serious? I blinked at her in disbelief that she would suggest that
"After what happened earlier" she giggled "I felt myself more tired in our loving embrace and might not satisfy you properly"
Oh no... did Kirche Influence Siesta somehow?
I shook my head to keep my thoughts straight because the next day is going to be... trouble for me
A new day arrived and I was seated at the table with the Valliere family, I was between Cattleya and Louise while Karin, Duc and Eleanor were across and Siesta is behind me looking slightly nervous We ate our meal quietly and let the sounds of silverware touch the plates and bowls.
I can feel the tense atmosphere... I looked forward to see Karin's glare right at me, no doubt humiliating her yesterday brought her fighting spirit out
After the meal, all of us went out to get some fresh air and Karin decided to get frustrations out
"Peter Lionheart" she looked at me with crossed arms "you have made yourself quite the impression yesterday"
"And I'm not apologizing for my words and actions" I glared "you refuse to acknowledge the choices Louise made" before adding "you never wished her to be harmed, yet she was able to return from danger because of the pressure you forced on her"
Said girl flinched slightly before getting comfort from the nice sister while Eleanor and Duc felt phantom pains on their bodies when I got mad at them yesterday
"It seems that we reached an impasse" the mother Valliere huffed as she can see any more words she says will not be heard
"Agreed" I nodded "so I propose this..." not losing eye contact "we duel"
That word caused most to gasp in shock while lady Valliere blinked at my proposal
"You heard me..." I crossed my arms "since we both care for Louise, we settle it by proving who is stronger"
"I am surprised that you would make such a solution" Karin spoke in surprise
"With how you nobles always have a wish to display power" I retorted "a duel is the only sensible act right now"
Without any more words Karin and her family went back to the home and prepare for the intended battle leaving me with Louise, Siesta and Cattleya
"That went better than expected" I sighed at how my instincts led to that proposal
I turned to see Siesta on her knees looking shocked while the nice Valliere sister was with Louise trying to calm the from hurting me thanks to my big mouth
"I know this isn't what you wish Louise" I spoke to my master before sighing "but with what you told me yesterday...I just can't stay idle and let you suffer anymore"
The void mage looked at me with watery eyes, she wanted to say how stupid I was for defying her family but she kept her tongue as relief washed over when she realized that I wanted to protect her
"You have made quite a risk Peter" Cattleya looked at me "I just hope that you can survive this because mother won't be merciful on you"
"Oh I can survive" I replied 'If Louise told you anything about me then Karin's going to be surprised when I fight her'
We arrived at an open field with Duc and Eleanor in view and they were simply quiet letting me look around to see how wide the place is
'No doubt this part of the home was meant to be used for practicing magic' I thought
Just then a roar came from the sky and I looked up to see a beast coming down and it revealed to be a manticore with Karin, wearing her knight armor, riding it!
'Karin, the Manticore Knight' I remembered Louise telling me that title when Kirche's mother visited 'definitely feared by those when they saw her with that into battle...'
The woman jumped off her familiar and removed her helmet looking at me
"I see that my challenger hasn't run away"
"I was the one to propose this" I stated "I won't break Louise's wish because of you...!"
"You're funeral outsider" Karin wore her helmet again "I will make sure to remind my daughter after I beat you"
"You won't be the victor in this..." was my final line to her
I placed the Acceldriver on my waist and pulled out my Gaia memory
Accel
"Hen...shin!"
Accel
The armor appeared and the Valliere family, minus Louise and Cattleya, nearly gasped at the outsider's new appearance
'Kamen Rider Accel...' Duc and Eleanor gulped 'what Karin/mother we gotten into...?'
'So the outsider was one of the heroes that saved Tristain' Karin thought 'this may be something for me to learn'
The woman pointed at Peter with her manticore lunging at the intended target
"PETER...!" Louise and Siesta shouted for fear of his safety
Clang!
The beast's claw stopped when he used his engine blade to block the attack
"Impossible!" Duc's eye widen at the scene "Karin's familiar is powerful...!"
The eldest Valliere couldn't utter a word for it is the first time to see her mother's familiar to be halted like that
'I'm starting to see why you are such an arrogant noble' I grunted against the beast 'one look and they cower at it's appearance'
I moved the claw away and jumped back to gain space and pulled out the engine memory
Engine
I opened my weapon and placed said memory inside
Steam
One swing and my appearance was covered from view
"Don't think you can hide from me and my familiar!" Karin used her magic and blew away the steam
But the area revealed that Peter was missing... making Karin and her familiar look around for him
Electric
The voice came from above and saw the armored being hold his blade above his head and used the blunt side to strike the manticore multiple times...!
The fearsome beast roared in pain feeling the electricity course through and trying to stay on it's feet
Engine Maximum Drive
Peter wasted no time and delivered three slashes on the manticore creating a letter A in the process
Boom!
Karin and her family were gaping in disbelief at seeing such a fearsome beast be defeated like that and the smoke disperesed revealing the woman's familiar out cold and slightly singed
I looked at my opponent and the audience's reaction at my stunt. I would've ended the duel there but I wanted to give this woman a reminder and the family that sided with her
"Karin Valliere" I spoke loud enough "for disregarding Louise's feelings" and pulled out another memory to use "I shall engrave you a reminder in this duel..."
Trial
The change was noticeable, my new armor made them stunned, giving me enough time to use to remove the Gaia memory
Click
I tossed the memory forward before running at high speed toward my target
Karin got her bearings back but when she was about to cast another wind spell, her hand was kicked making the wand fly out of her grip before feeling her entire being struck, she may be getting dizzy but she was able to see a blue blur before submitting to her pain
Louise, Duc, Cattleya and Eleanor watched Peter move at ridiculous speed creating a blue T on Karin as the attack continued
I stopped my kicks and caught the trial memory
Trial Maximum Drive
Ka-boom!
I breathed deeply as my armor disappeared and turned my head to see my opponent on her back with her armor dented from head to toe...
Karin Valliere, the Manticore Knight, was beaten by Kamen Rider Accel...!
Louise was in so much disbelief that she feel to her knees at what she just witnessed! Even the other Valliere's were struck with silence that woman who they acknowledged and obeyed had lost!
"Now that I won against the strong power in this family..." I spoke "Louise, Siesta and I will leave this estate and go back to Tristain academy"
After saying those words, Peter left the area to find Siesta and prepare the luggage and carriage for the trip back to said academy
Louise was still silent but she was wrapped in the arms of her sister Cattleya. Duc and Eleanor just blinked at what they saw before them... and Karin slowly got up to her feet feeling all the pain she took as she moved slowly
"I don't like this outcome" the lady Valliere sighed "but after what happened today..." she turned to her youngest daughter "Louise Franciose le Blanc de la Valliere, you are to return at Tristain academy and continue your studies as a mage!"
With her piece said, the lady Valliere succumbed to her defeat and fell to the ground
"Karin/mother...!" Duc and Eleanor shouted and went to the fallen Valliere
Cattleya got her bearings and worked on soothing her young sister 'you are lucky indeed Louise' she thought 'Peter has proven himself worthy of you'
To be continued...
Author's Notes:
And that is the end of this chapter. I had Peter make a few interactions before encountering Louise's family (and was it a long one for me to make...)
Sorry of it isn't much but this is where Peter meets Louise's family and sees how flawed they are in handling her life (not to mention how upset I felt that the parents acted so absolute in their decisions)
Plus I wanted to show the Valliere family that despite their reputation as a powerful, they can still get beaten (hence the duel between the mother Valliere with her familiar against Peter...) and hopefully the family can be mellow like Cattleya
I also gave Siesta her lemon first since she wants her desire to be fulfilled since she was saved by Peter and he stopped a rebel group that almost made her hometown a wasteland (sorry if it was short, I haven't written a lemon since for a while now so I've gotten rusty...)
Anyways I hope that you readers are doing well...I heard news that the COVID virus is lessening, but it's still present... so follow safety precautions that are still around and keep yourselves healthy okay?