Change My Destiny Chapter 2: Souls and Swords Part 1

Hey guys, here's chapter two. Just for your information, I'll be doing my best to stick to the path that I have in mind with this story, so you can expect things to at least attempt to deviate away from the original cut and dry formula. I still have a lot of things I want to foreshadow at the moment, so I'm going to be using the next few chapters to develop and set up those. Hope you enjoy!

Small Edit: I originally had a plan with a biblical based Deity like in the original show and light novel, but it didn't work out so I replaced it with a pantheon that I created. So if you look back at chapter one, the small mention of God when Avalon touched the portal was removed and replaced with mentions of Ethera, who will be introduced by Louise in her Halkeginia history recap this chapter. Sorry about that!

Louise, Avalon, and Sasha entered the large bedroom. There was a queen-size mattress a few paces ahead, taking up one fifth of the room. Near the door was a table where the candle resided. A large closet sat at the back corner of the room and a drawer half the size of it stood beside it. Moonlight shone through the open square window on the opposite wall. They took a seat at the table.

Louise took the time to look at her familiar… Familiars? She wasn't even sure anymore. Hoping to take her mind of it, she began lighting up a few candles on the table with some matches. She took a deep breath, calming herself.

"Alright. What the hell is going on, mom? Where in the world are we?" Avalon asked, although he flinched slightly at the look she gave him.

"Watch your language. As for your question, we're not on Earth anymore." Avalon's eyes widened at that, though Louise only became confused. Earth? Why are they talking about dirt?

"Not on…! Then where are we if we aren't on Earth? Are we in another dimension or what?!"

"Something like that." Taking a seat herself, Sasha folded her hands together as she sank deep into thought, propping her elbows up on the table and resting her chin against her curled fingers. "This wasn't supposed to happen… Things should have been…"

"What do you mean? What wasn't supposed to happen? Why?" Avalon went on, but Sasha didn't answer. Instead, she continued to remain deep in her thoughts. "Mom, don't ignore me. I have the right to know why the portal that took Amy appeared before me!" Avalon went on, raising his voice. Still, Sasha didn't relent, keeping a neutral expression, making Avalon sigh in exasperation. "So that's it then. You're not going to answer my questions, like always." Sitting in his chair and crossing his arms, Avalon angrily stared at the floor.

"…It's not that simple, Avalon."

"It never is, is it?"

"You don't understand. This is a very dangerous situation, and we can't go about doing things irrationally. You being brought here to this land unsettles me greatly… and I only want the best for you. You know that," she said, sighing. "I'm sorry I can't answer your questions now, but one day I will. I will tell you everything when I'm sure of what is happening. Even I am confused, and I'm oft not."

Not bothering to reply, Avalon turned his gaze over to the young pink haired girl, who sat on the bed. "What about you? What can you tell me about this place? Do you have any maps?"

Not expecting the question, Louise looked up suddenly, her mind still trying to wrap itself around the situation. She felt a tinge of anger at Avalon's informal speaking, but one look at Sasha's ears made her reconsider.

"A-Ah, um, yes, I'm familiar with Halkeginian history!"

Taking a deep breath Louise brought herself into focus. She knew this! She studied the history of her country thoroughly, thanks to her mother and her… as much as she hated to say it, lack of magic.

"Six thousand years ago, Halkeginia was a war torn land, with two sides constantly fighting for dominance; the humans, and the elves. Originally, Halkeginians back then were nomadic in nature, due to the constant fear of attack. However, a hero among the humans emerged; Brimir. Not much is known about where he comes from, but his origins have many interpretations. Some say he came from a family of carpenters. Others say he was an orphan adopted into one of the ruling tribes. But one thing is for certain, and that is that he wielded the ancient power of the void, a type of magic that had not been seen before, gifted to him by the great spirit Ethera, the creator of humanity and the mother of the four elemental spirits of earth, fire, wind and water. Back then there were only four elements; earth, wind, fire, and water. Using his power to help unite the people, Brimir fought back against the elves and after seeing his might they conceded, negotiating a peace treaty."

The treaty states that the elves will reside in the western lands, beyond the Sahara desert, while the humans would take up the green lands of the west. Brimir's son's led the creation of what would become modern Halkeginia, each taking up residence in their own inherited lands. There hasn't been much between us since then; a few trade routes here and there, in recent times things have become strained after King Henry XIV was killed by an Elf assassin. Since then, they've closed their borders."

"Is something the matter, mom? Avalon asked Sasha, who was deep in thought.

"When was King Henry killed?" Sasha asked.

"About seventeen years ago. Since then his son, Prince Henrik has taken the throne, while Princess Henrietta has been taking care of their mother, Queen Marianne."

"I see... Go on, then."

"Right. Halkeginia is comprised of six countries. There's Tristain, where we are, Germania to the Northeast, Gallia to the South, and Romalia even further south. Lastly, there is Albion, the city in the sky, which we nicknamed—"

"The White Country, because of the mist that clouds it when it passes over the rest of the known world, providing rainfall," interrupted Sasha. Louise jumped at her interruption, making Sasha chuckle. "Oh, don't mind me, little one. I'm just making sure my facts are also straight."

"…I'm not that little." Louise blushed in embarrassment, making Sasha chuckle further.

Avalon, however, noticed a deep sadness in his mother's eyes. He didn't comment on it.

"She's worried about what happened to the king," said Kavaid.

"I suppose she would be, but are the elves here the same as us? Do they even know about our world?"

"If Sasha knew, its safe to say that they are aware. We'll have to do research on it later."

Louise then began explaining a brief history on the cultures of their countries, and the current treaties between them. Avalon and Sasha listened intently, although Avalon had noticed that his mother's eyes gleamed at certain details.

"Because of his accomplishments, and with his sons teaching the next generation magic, Brimir became a very important religious figure, and is greatly revered here in Tristain and in Romalia. I'm not sure about Galia; I've never been there myself, but from what I've read they do also worship Brimir. Germania is a little trickier. They were only established around five hundred years ago by a group of merchants who were dissatisfied with the political powers. They pooled their lands together and created a country where wealth determines your status, not your ability to do magic. The leaders of the country are voted for by the people, and cycle every twenty or so years. So while they acknowledges Brimir its not a law for them to worship him. Personally, I find it to be nonsense; magic is what defines the nobility, not money."

"But then wouldn't that make everybody a noble?" Avalon asked. Louise was so caught off guard by his ignorance that she failed to make a response. Instead, Sasha answered.

"Remember Avalon, not everyone can use magic here. Only those of Brimir's line can; am I correct, Louise?"

"Y-Yes, that is the truth of the matter. I'll admit I'm quite surprised you didn't know, but then again, all of elves can use magic right?"

"Y-Yeah, that's right. I've never met someone who couldn't." Avalon took the information in stride, stowing it away for research later, but deep down it shook him. The idea of magic able humans being nobles and the rest commoners... It made him feel really unsure and sick. Why couldn't they all perform magic? All sentient beings should be able! The research had been done!

"Alright, that's enough for now. This is all really weird, so I'm just gonna try and let everything sink in for the night." Sitting on the bed, Avalon let himself fall onto the soft cushions, savoring the feeling it gave him.

"What do you think about all this?"

"I don't know. This is all very new to me. I've seen a lot of magic and war in my time, but nothing like this."

Louise coughed. "V-Very well then… but if I may ask, Mrs. Sasha, what should I do regarding the summoning? Are you alright with me… performing the ritual with… with your son?" She wanted to add her to the equation, but she had a very, very strong feeling that Sasha would say no. Perking up his head, Avalon awaited his mother's answer. She was quiet for several moments, making Louise feel very nervous.

"…What do you think, Avalon? Do you want to go through with the ritual?"

Avalon looked up from his place on the bed, his brow raised.

"Of course not! I can't, not after…"

Avalon fell silent. Though Sasha unexpectedly didn't retort, Louise did.

"W-What? How could you not want to perform the summoning ritual? I'll admit that it is strange and off putting that I summoned you both, but normally no one would get this from a noble in their lifetime! It's been this school's tradition for over five thousand years!" she hissed spitefully, congratulating herself on keeping a straight face. The summoning ritual was the mark of a mage, started by the Founder Brimir himself. Every student from the second year and onward had one, as it was the exam first years needed to pass in order to progress in their studies.

No one has failed it before. And Louise sure as hell wasn't going to be the first.

Avalon's eyes narrowed as he sat up, focusing on his summoner. She was really starting to piss him off.

"Avalon,"Kavaid tried to warn him.

"What kind of dated attitude is that? Five thousand years? All I'm hearing is that for five thousand years, you mages have yet to realize that the familiar system is nothing more than a form of slavery. Tradition? All that tells me is that none of you mages are capable of thinking and experimenting for yourselves!" Standing up, eyes flaring, Avalon stomped up to Louise, and she found the hard way that his eyes were the same as Sasha's. She began to tremble lightly.

"I refuse to become the slave of a pampered, spoiled little brat like you—"

"AVALON!" Louise and Avalon jumped at the power of Sasha's voice booming from within their bones as she stood up from her seat. Looking over at her, Avalon saw that his mother was angry. No, she was furious. Oh crap.

"Did I not teach you to respect other people's cultures, no matter how different they are? Show some respect to this poor girl!"

Avalon wanted to retort, but deep down, he knew he overstepped his boundaries.

"And if you recall when soul blades were allowed by our laws, was it not a requirement for your studies? Did you not think that maybe this girl might fail if you refused her contract? And what about you? How long did it take for you to call Kavaid? One whole hour, if I recall, when all your friends took less than minutes? Yet here you have the gall to insult Louise's efforts? For shame! I taught you better than that, now apologize!" Sasha huffed, staring down at her son harshly.

"Kavaid? Is that why Avalon refers to himself as we sometimes?" Louise thought to herself.

Avalon was quiet, biting his lip as he slowly lowered his head.

"…I apologize for my outburst. It was wrong of me to insult you and your beliefs. I will fulfill my end of the ritual."

Satisfied, Sasha took back her spot on the table, watching silently as Louise pondered what to do next. She stuttered for a few moments, trying to find the words to say, before clearing her throat and starting again.

"I accept your apology. Now please, kneel." Avalon did so. As he did, he decided to feel Louise's aura, so he could have an idea of what exactly he was getting into.

"Ether? Is that why she summoned me, because we use the same element?"

"One could only assume," Kavaid replied.

Louise took out her wand from her skirt pocket, and closed her eyes.

"My Name Is Louise Françoise le Blanc de la Vallière. To the pentagon that holds the five powers, bless this one and yield him as my Familiar…" she continued.

A soft, green glow enveloped the room as a pentagon appeared on the floor, encircling the two. Avalon felt a spike of magic in the air, Louise's aura becoming an almost oppressing tension on his shoulders. Avalon let out a grunt as he felt Louise's element wash over him. Too focused, Louise tapped her wand on his head and took a deep breath as Avalon decided to let the ritual run its course. He didn't want to cause it to backfire on her, so he stood as still as possible. Louise took a deep breath, placed her hands on Avalon's cheeks, urging him to come closer. He did so and as quickly as she could, Louise pecked him on the lips. The two held their breath, waiting for something to happen.

Luckily, something did.

A light shined on the back of his left hand, and Avalon felt the tension on his shoulders release. Runes began carving themselves into the back of his hand.

"What…? I can't read it, I don't recognize this inscription," said Louise. Avalon looked towards his mother, who had a serious look of contemplation on her face. She stepped towards the two, looking at the markings herself.

"You really are..."

-Change My Destiny-

As Louise and Avalon finished their ritual, both of them agreed that branding Avalon was enough, and that there was no need to brand Sasha. Furthermore, Sasha thought it best that Avalon escort Louise back to her room, and get to know her better. He had felt a little restless after the sudden summoning, but she had a point; plus, it would be a good way to get his mind off things.

Walking down the long stone corridor, guided by Louise, Avalon looked down at the markings on his left hand.

"Gandalfr…What do you think it means? And why is there an r at the end of it?"

"I'm not sure what it means in this world, but the runes on your hand look strikingly similar to Nordic. Gandalfr was a Nord dwarf, and is derived from the words Gandr, meaning magic staff, and alfr, meaning elf."

"Huh. They were quite literal about it, weren't they?"

He wondered what it meant here. Just who is this girl? Why was his mother so cryptic about all this? He knew that she knew what was going on, but he couldn't figure it out why. Too many details were missing.

Brimir... This world… this girl… How were they related?

Louise, on the other hand, was excited. She had done it! She had successfully performed the ritual! Hopefully, this would be the first step in many successes to come.

Oh, but she forgot to ask Sasha about her magic… Then again, she would be too nervous to ask. Maybe Avalon can help her? He technically is her familiar now, so he would have to obey. Oh, she could see it now! Kirche grovelling under her foot like a dog, her classmates bowing before her, worshiping her as she laughed maniacally—

"Hey, I have a question about your element." said Avalon suddenly.

Louise lost her footing, holding onto the wall for support.

Avalon blinked. "What the hell?"

"Uh… Are you okay?" Quickly straightening herself, Louise turned to Avalon, trying to keep calm and act normal. However, the awkward grin and the vein on her forehead told him otherwise. She began speeding ahead of him.

"P-P-P-Perfect! I'm just perfect! Everything is fine! I feel wonderful! I feel—"

"Yeah, yeah, alright, but you didn't even hear my question—hey!"

Catching up before she could get too far, Avalon grabbed her by the arm. Louise began violently thrashing against Avalon's grip.

"Unhand me you dog!"

"What the heck is wrong with you? I haven't even said anything!"

Louise's gaze whipped towards him, her eyes nearly glowing with fury.

"How dare you!" Unable to take his words any longer, the stress of the day finally blew, and Louise took out her wand, pointing it at Avalon. He was going to reach for her hand to stop her, but the sudden spike of magic exploded from Louise's spirit, her aura nearly overwhelming him with its raw power. He reached out in front of him with his right hand.

"FIREBALL!" He heard Louise shout.

"She thinks her element is fire?! Wait, does she not know what her element is?!"Avalon quickly conjured up a barrier, blocking her spell as it filling the entire hall with smoke

Huffing from the sudden exertion, Louise coughed the dust out of her lungs, feeling her mood fall considerably. "I messed up again…" She fell on her knees, holding back the tears. She screwed up in front of her familiar… What would he think of her now?

Avalon was very surprised. She nearly broke through his barrier with that!

"…What the hell was that? That was no fireball," he said, dispelling his barrier as the smoke cleared.

"….Yes it was," Louise replied, her eyes on the ground.

"You've got to be joking. I can sense aura, you know. That was not fire. That was Ether!"

Louise froze, before rushing up to Avalon, much to his surprise. She grabbed him by the shirt. "Y-You know what my element is?!" Avalon stopped, scratching the back of his head.

"Yeah, I do. I wanted to ask you about it, but… you really didn't know what your element is?

The two fell into silence, but Louise broke it before long.

"….Can you help me? Please?" She looked up at him earnestly. Avalon didn't reply right away, looking deep into her eyes. There was a hidden desperation underneath her strong willed self, and Avalon couldn't help but feel sorry for her. Did her classmates know about her strange aura?

"Only if you tell me what's going on with you. I want to know everything."

Louise sighed, letting go of Avalon's shirt. She nodded.

"Alright. But tomorrow, I promise. I need to rest. Come wake me in the morning and we can discuss it after my classes."

After dropping off Louise at her quarters, Avalon decided to take the scenic route back to his room, and did a little exploring, grasping a good idea of his surroundings. Finishing his route on the rooftops, he was about to head back, when he heard the sound of...

"Wait, are those flapping wings?"

"Avalon, above!"

Avalon's head shot up, and he sprinted off to the side, rolling away as a huge, dark shadow of a figure slammed into the tiles where he once stood. Dust collected in the air as Avalon took a crouched battle stance, his hand outstretched to his side. An elongated rod of mana formed, booming loudly as Avalon gripped it firmly. The green light particles solidified into a cobalt blue spear, an arrowhead shaped blade on one end, and a trident on the other.

He took a stance as his eye's narrowed.

"Who are you?" he snarled, noticing the human figure on top of the giant figure. It hid in the shadow of the building, trembling slightly as the human on the figure jumped down from its mount.

"Wait. Friend," a soft voice called out, nearly unheard by Avalon. What? The figure stepped out of the shadows, revealing one of the students. She had short, blue hair, and in her left hand was a tall Staff, resembling a Shepherd's crook. The large shadow behind her also slowly stepped out, revealing a large, blue dragon, with the expression of a sad puppy.

"Okay, seriously. What the hell is going on? Do you know, Kavaid?"

"...It's a Rhyme dragon! It's been so long since I've seen one I almost didn't recognize it. Although I've never seen one act like this before."

"So its intelligent then?"

"Absolutely. So don't be too mean to it."

"Some friend, you attacked us out of nowhere. Were you trying to crush us?!" The dragon flinched, its head hung low as it looked apologetically at Avalon, warbling sad sounds from its maw. The girl looked over at the dragon, which Avalon assumed to be her familiar, and smacked it on the head. The dragon then comedically held her wound, rushing to the wall and... Was it crying?!

"Smell," the girl went on. Avalon stared.

"...Okay, we're gonna need more than that." The girl was silent for another moment. She then looked over to her dragon.

"Smell," she said, and then pointed to Avalon with her staff. "Dragon."

"Oh…" Avalon's eyes widened. Oh! Okay, so we smell like a dragon. That's… a first." The girl nodded, before pausing.

"We?" she said. Avalon sighed.

"It's hard to explain. Let's just say its a bad habit. Anyway... I guess it's alright then? That wasn't cool, but I forgive you. What's its name?" Avalon dismissed his spear, keeping his eyes on Tabitha who made no visible reaction as it vanished, and walked up to the quivering dragon. It looked at him from between its talons, which were held over her eyes. Okay, this is strangely cute, but also disturbing. The dragons he were used to were much more prideful and fierce.

"Not it. Her. Sylphid." She pointed at her dragon. "Tabitha." She pointed at herself. Avalon nodded.

"Alright then. I'm Avalon. You're Sylphid?" he said, turning to the dragon. Sylphid nodded, slowly removing its claws from its eyes. "Alright, now look, I'm not mad at you for doing what you did, but you really surprised me." The dragon nodded, making noises of acknowledgement. "So I'll forgive you, only if you promise not to sneak up on me anymore. If you want to... what was it?" Avalon turned back to Tabitha.

"Smell."

"...If you want to... Smell me, or see me, preferably, just cry out and let me know you're coming. Can you do that for me?" The dragon nodded, and Avalon smiled, scratching the dragon's head. It seemed to melt to his touch, rubbing its cheek against him. Avalon laughed as he continued petting his new friend.

"Huh. Who would have thought that a dragon would be able to smell you, Kavaid?"

"My body may be gone, but our spirits did merge. That must be what Sylphid is smelling."

"Well, maybe I'll get to tell her about you one day. I doubt she'll believe that I was born with a dragon soul inside me though."