Chapter 8: A Night in Nohr
AN: Hey everyone! Here's another chapter for you all! I hope you all are enjoying my work. I'm trying my best to make this story
enjoyable for everyone. Hope you enjoy!
***I don't own anything in this story, so please don't sue me.***
Morning arrived and Samantha stretched before sitting up. Genny started stretching after Samantha sat up and she rubbed her sleepy eyes.
"Morning, sleepyhead." Samantha brushed the girl's hair out from her eyes. Genny gave another big yawn and rubbed her eyes. "Let's take a nice, warm bath." Samantha got out of bed and carried the girl to the tub. "Today we're going to a big ol' castle."
"Yeah!" Genny cheered and splashed Samantha. She gently splashed the child back and Genny splashed Samantha again.
"You goof." Samantha smiled and started bathing the girl from head to toe. When she finished, she took a towel and dried off the girl before wrapping a smaller towel around her head. She then set the child on the bed and quickly showered herself. The water rolled down her back and she thought about what was in store for the day.
'We're heading to Nohr today.' Samantha thought while she lathered her own hair. 'I haven't seen the Nohrian royal family in a long time. King Xander, Lady Camilla, Lord Leo, Lady Elise…it's been so long.' Samantha smiled and rinsed the shampoo out of her hair. She then started washing her body. 'And then there's the Hoshidan royal family. King Ryoma, Lady Hinoka, Lord Takumi, and Lady Sakura.' Samantha continued thinking as she finished washing her upper body. She finished washing her entire body and dried herself off before stepping out of the bathroom. Genny was examining her fingers before looking up at Samantha with a smile.
"I'm hungry!" Genny informed her caretaker.
"Well, let's go see what's on the menu." Samantha got dressed before dressing the little girl. Samantha and Genny were now wearing their original outfits while the clothes they borrowed from Nami was crumpled up in the corner.
'I should probably wash that before returning it.' Samantha thought before she left the room with Genny. As they went downstairs, Ruby started walking towards the kitchen.
"Good morning!" She said cheerfully. "Give me a second to make something." She walked into the kitchen and Samantha followed her into the kitchen. "How was karaoke night?"
"I had fun." Samantha smiled.
"That's nice." Ruby said as she cracked four eggs into a pan while cooking bacon on another pan. She placed four pieces of bread in the toaster and then walked over to the cupboard and grabbed two glasses. She set them on the counter and grabbed a large pitcher or orange juice.
"Wow." Samantha said as she stood by the door and watched Ruby work in the kitchen.
"Oh this is nothing." Ruby smiled and grabbed the toast from the toaster and placed them on a plate. She flipped the eggs and then the bacon before grabbing a serving tray and finally putting the eggs and bacon on the plate. She put the eggs and bacon on the plate and set the two glasses on the tray before picking up the tray. She also placed a small dish of jelly and butter on the tray before picking it up. "Are you going to head upstairs?"
"Well…sure. I guess we don't have tables down here?" Samantha laughed and the three went upstairs and while Samantha opened the door, Ruby set the tray on the table.
"Just remember that there's no rush to check out today. You're also paid for the entire day, so don't feel like you need to check out early."
"I think we'll probably check out after this." Samantha said as she set Genny in the chair and moved the chair closer to the empty chair. Ruby set the tray down while Samantha set Genny down on the chair. She took the seat as Ruby set the plates down in front of them. "Well, bon appétit!" Ruby said and left the room. Samantha cut off a piece of Genny's egg and fed the little girl.
"Is it good?" Samantha asked and the little girl nodded her head. "I'm glad." Samantha said. "Are you going to miss the valley?"
"Yeah…" Genny said with a hint of sadness in her voice. The two finished their breakfast and Samantha put the dishes back on the tray and carried them downstairs. Genny flapped her wings and followed the princess downstairs.
"…carrots, ten boxes of turnips, three boxes of strawberries, and four boxes of yams." Tim went over the list before looking up. "Hey Sam. Hi Genny." He smiled.
"Hi." Genny replied.
"You done with breakfast?" He asked. "Hey, by the way, any chance you're done with the room upstairs?"
"Tim!" Ruby snapped at her husband. "We're not rushing her. She will leave when she's ready to leave."
"Well, yeah. And normally, I wouldn't rush her…but Van is looking for a room and-"
"Van can wait. He knows the rules." Ruby shook her head.
"I…I think we're ready." Samantha said with determination.
"Are you sure? There's no rush to leave." Ruby insisted, but Samantha shook her head.
"I'm very grateful for your hospitality, but I think it's time for us to go. Thank you for everything Ruby. Tim." Samantha smiled and Genny smiled as well.
"O…Ok." Ruby said a little crestfallen by Samantha's decision. Samantha set Genny down and gave a hug to the woman and then a hug for the man. "I promise I'll return one day." She said before she remembered the clothes she left in the corner.
"Actually…I forgot some clothes in the room. Genny, can you stay here for a minute?"
"Uh huh." Genny said as she walked into the corner and waited.
"Hey Genny…can you wait in the other room?" Tim asked. Genny nodded and flapped her wings before flying into the other room. Samantha ran upstairs and grabbed the clothes before running downstairs, grabbing the rest of her stuff, and running back downstairs to return the key to Ruby.
"I hope to see you again, Samantha." Ruby said with a smile. Samantha bid farewell and left the inn.
"Let's go back to the farm and return the clothes." Samantha said as she carried her towards the farm. She arrived and, once again, Jack was hard at work in the fields while Nami and Celia were picking fruit from the trees. Nami looked up and wiped her forehead before walking towards Samantha and Genny.
"Hey Sam. Hi Genny!" Nami said with a sweet tone. Genny reached out for Nami and the redhead held the girl and lightly giggled. Celia tickled the little girl and she giggled in response.
"Is it is always busy here?" Samantha joked.
"There's always something to do on the farm." Celia explained. "When you arrived, we had a shipment to prepare for. Today's a bit easier. We're just picking fruit. Want one?" Celia asked.
"Sure. I think we'll just have an apple if that's ok." Samantha said.
"Which one? We have honey crisp, granny smith, gala, fiji, red delicious…"
"What do you recommend?" Samantha asked.
"I prefer honey crisp, but Nami likes granny smith. To each their own, I guess."
"Granny smiths are better." Nami smirked.
"I'm not saying you're wrong…but you're wrong." Celia said as both women laughed.
"I…may we please have one of each? How much do I owe you?" Samantha pulled out her wallet as Celia took a granny smith and a honey crisp.
"You're going to pay me with the money I gave you? Don't worry about it." Nami said before placing a hand over her mouth.
"The money you gave me? When was this?" Samantha asked. Nami's face blushed red and Celia placed her hands on her hips.
"I may have…taken a small peek at the photos in your wallet…while you were passed out drunk…and then…" Nami cleared her throat.
"You looked at the photos?" Samantha asked.
"Your family looked really happy in that last one." Nami said. "I was just trying to help." Nami said while kicking at the dirt.
"Thank you, Nami. I am truly grateful for all the kindness I've received. Here, why don't you give me your number and the next time I run into mom, I'll give you a call so she can talk to you." Samantha suggested. The red head's face lit up.
"Really?! You mean it?" She asked with a big smile on her face.
"Sure. It's the least I could do." Before Celia could object, Nami sprinted into her home and came back with a piece of paper and handed it to Samantha.
"I'll make sure my mom gets this, but the last time we talked, she was looking for her suit. Someone had the balls to actually steal from her."
"Who? Who would do such a thing?" Nami asked with shock and worry.
"I don't know. I just remember that she panicked at first, and then flipped the castle upside down. After that, she said she had a hunch and took off." Samantha explained. "I haven't heard from her since."
"I'm sorry." Nami said. "Look, if it's too much-"
"No, it's fine. I'll make sure she gets the number at least." Samantha said. "Thanks for the apples."
"Nami, we've really got to get back to work." Celia insisted.
"I…yeah." Nami said and before Samantha had a chance to leave; Nami gave her a hug and wrapped an arm around her.
"You know…if you ever want to experiment with someone." Nami whispered in Samantha's ear. Samantha's face turned bright red.
"Wh-What? Where…Where is this coming from?" She asked with a bit of surprise and a hint of embarrassment.
"You say a lot of fun things when you're drunk." Nami winked at her and Samantha's face turned even brighter red. She nervously laughed and Nami laughed with her. "Come back soon, ok?" Nami said as she gave Samantha a quick peck on the cheek. The two waved goodbye and Samantha and Genny waved back. The two walked back towards the inn and Samantha looked around.
"What're we doing?" Genny asked.
"We're looking for someone…but they're not here." Samantha said a bit disappointed before her face lit up and she smiled.
"I know! Want to hear me play the piano?" Samantha asked and Genny nodded. The two began walking towards the giant house and quietly knocked before walking in. Lucina was playing the piano and Romana was watching her daughter play.
"Wonderful. You've come such a long way, Lucina." Romana looked up and smiled at Samantha. "Ah! You've come back." She smiled while Lucina finished playing and turned around.
"Sam! Hi!" Lucina said cheerfully.
"Have you come back to play?" Romana said.
"I'd like to try my hand at playing if that's alright with you." Samantha requested. Lucina got up and walked over to her.
"Hi Genny." Lucina said with a sweet tone.
"Hi!" Genny said as she flapped her wings and flew next to her. Samantha took a seat in front of the piano and locked her fingers together before cracking them.
"Let's see…how about…" She played a few notes before taking a deep breath and exhaling. She began playing the first movement of Beethoven's 'Moonlight Sonata' and smiled as she remembered this was one of the most difficult pieces she had to learn when she was younger.
"Very good." Romana said while Samantha played. She filled the house with beautiful music and closed her eyes as she replayed another memory. She remembered her time learning how to play the first movement. Zelda sat on the bench next to her and she continued playing.
"You're doing great, Samantha." Zelda said cheerfully. Samantha smiled and hit a wrong note and she had a look of fear on her face and turned to her mother.
"I'm sorry! I'm sorry!" She said hoping her mother wouldn't discipline her too harshly.
"Samantha, everyone makes mistakes." Zelda said with a smile. "Try again." Samantha started playing again and, once again, she hit the wrong note. Samantha groaned and lowered her head in shame.
"Samantha, you're doing a wonderful job. I'm proud of how far you've come." Zelda said to her daughter. Samantha slightly raised her head, but she still felt that she had failed her mother. "As long as we keep working hard at it, we'll learn this and when we do, it'll sound so beautiful." Hearing the hope in her mother's voice, Samantha felt more confidence. "Let's try again, ok?"
"Ok!" Samantha said and began playing the song again, slower and more cautious.
'Mom, wherever you are…I hope you can hear this…' Samantha thought as she finished the first movement. Lucina and Romana applauded Samantha's performance.
"Wonderful, just wonderful." Romana smiled after hearing Samantha play. "You played beautifully, Samantha."
"Sam, that was incredible." Lucina gushed. "I wish I could play like that."
"In time, dear child. Samantha has had an excellent teacher and put in much work." Romana said. "You will reach this level in time as long as you keep working hard."
"I will! I promise!" Lucina vowed as Genny flapped her wings and once she was free from Lucina's grasp, three cats were trying to reach Genny. The little girl whimpered and quickly flew into the arms of her caretaker. Romana came back with a small water bottle and sprayed the cats with it.
"Leave her alone!" Romana said sternly and the cats quickly darted up the stairs.
"It's ok. They're gone now, see?" Genny, who had flown in her arms and hid her face from everyone, looked around to make sure the cats weren't around. As Samantha tried to set her down, Genny's grip tightened and she refused to let go.
"Genny, come on-"
"No!" Genny refused and Samantha stood up.
"I guess I'm holding her for now." Samantha said as she stood up. Genny looked at her with worry. "Don't worry, Genny. If you want to stay in my arms, I'll hold you, ok?"
"K." Genny rested her head on Samantha's shoulder.
"I'd love to stay, but I'm supposed to be meeting someone soon. It was a privilege to play for you." Samantha nodded and Romana smiled.
"You are always welcome back." She informed the princess.
"I'll get better and then you can watch me play." Lucina smiled.
"Next time, you'll have to come to my place." Samantha said. She waved goodbye and the two left the building. Genny was feeling bad because of her actions.
"S-Sorry…" Genny said sadly.
"Genny, it's ok. I know those cats scared you. It's ok to be scared sometimes." Samantha told her. "You don't need to feel bad or anything. Lucina and Romana weren't mad." She hugged the child and nuzzled against the child's cheek. Genny smiled and started giggling. "There's Genny." Samantha said and lightly tickled her child. Genny's laughter grew and she squirmed in Samantha's arms as they walked back. As they walked towards the inn, Samantha saw Niles and Peri waiting outside the inn. They seemed to be in a conversation as Samantha approached them.
"…waste of time." Peri scoffed as her face lit up when she saw Samantha. "Hey!" She waved to the two of them before Niles turned around and bowed his head.
"Lady Samantha." He said with a smile. "I must demand that you come with us now. Lord Leo has ordered us to bring you to Nohr. I will advise you to not resist us-"
"Ok. Let's go." Samantha said with a sigh.
"…A-Are you sure you don't want to resist?" Peri asked with a little disappointment. "Not even a little?"
"Peri. Not everything needs to end in bloodshed." Niles said with anger in his voice.
"Nope. We decided we would go with you today." Samantha informed the two of them. Peri sighed in disappointment and Niles nodded his head.
"Shall we get going? I know Lord Leo is eager to receive your opinion on a personal matter."
"What personal matter?" Samantha asked but Niles and Peri were already getting ready to leave.
"Lady Samantha, if you please." Niles offered his hand to the princess.
"Genny, can you fly here for a second?" The laguz child flapped her wings and Samantha climbed on the back of the horse Niles had ridden into town with. She then extended her hands and Genny flew into her arms again. "Ready."
"Hold on tight." Niles said as he snapped the reigns and rode away from Forget-Me-Not Valley and began heading home. They were traveling fast and Samantha observed the beautiful scenery that passed her by.
"We're going really fast." Genny said while looked at Samantha.
"Yeah. We're going really fast." Samantha said cheerfully. As they rode past the mountains, the rivers, the valleys; each scene more beautiful than the last. After an hour or so, Samantha felt Genny tub on her sleeve.
"Sam…I'm hungry." Genny whined.
"Genny…just hold on for a little while. We're almost there."
"Sam…" Genny whined a little louder.
"In the left back pocket, there are a few bread rolls." Niles informed the princess. Samantha dug into Niles pockets and removed two bread rolls. She handed one to Genny happily ate the bread roll and they continued to ride. As nightfall started to creep, the scenery changed to a much darker tone.
"Sam…" Genny held onto Samantha's hand.
"It's ok. Don't let go of me." Samantha said and she felt Genny's grip her hand even tighter.
"Uh-huh…" Genny said nervously as her eyelids started growing heavy and she almost fell off the horse.
"Genny!" Samantha grabbed the child, but the momentum carried her off the horse and she fell off; hitting the ground hard. Niles stopped the horse and practically jumped off the horse.
"Samantha!" He called out in worry. She groaned and her right arm and her right shoulder blade stung a little, but for the most part, she was ok. Genny was fast asleep however.
"I'm good." Samantha told her friend. "How much further?" She asked.
"We're here. It's right over there." He pointed to a large castle within a hundred yards of where they were. "Do you want a ride?"
"Sure." Samantha got back on the horse and gently, yet firmly gripped the sleeping child. The horse trotted towards the castle and Niles took the sleeping child just so Samantha could get off the horse and handed her back. Genny turned her head before exhaling and continued sleeping.
"Peri, please take the horses back to the stable. I'll take our guests to Lord Leo and King Xander." Peri nodded and guided the horses to the stable while the three of them started walking towards the castle. They entered the castle and continued walking towards a large door and Niles stopped before entering.
"We're here. If you'll wait a moment so I can inform Lord Leo of your arrival." Samantha nodded and Niles entered the room by himself. A man Samantha knew was Jakob was tidying up the hall around the door.
"Hello Jakob." Samantha said to the man. Jakob ignored her and continued cleaning. "I see you're still rude to everyone except Corrin."
"Are you certain you can claim to be a royal with a tongue like that?" He quipped back to her. "Zelda would be disappointed."
"Don't speak her name." Samantha said with a hint of anger.
"Struck a nerve, did I?" Jakob smirked at the princess.
"Oh Jakob, be nice." A pink haired maid said as she finished mopping a portion of the floor. She took a step and slipped on the mopped floor and kicked the bucket. It flipped up and landed upside down over her head; drenching her in mop water. "Oh no…" The woman said quietly as she took the bucket off her head and looked around at the mess she created.
"Oh come now, Felicia. You embarrass Lady Corrin with your constant blunders."
"I-I try my best…" Felicia said as she bit her bottom lip and quietly began cleaning the mess.
"Be nice to her, she's trying her best." Samantha said quietly as she was still holding Genny.
"Why are you here?" Jakob asked.
"I have business." Samantha said with restrained anger.
"With whom?" He asked again.
"That's none of your concern." Samantha said with a big smile as Niles returned outside the room.
"Lord Leo is in a meeting, but he has asked that you wait here for him." He informed the princess. Curiosity got the best of Samantha as she wanted to know what Leo was talking about and to whom. With Genny asleep, Samantha used this as her opportunity to get inside.
"Niles, can you find us a room? I don't want Genny to wake up in the midst of whatever Leo and I must discuss."
"Of course." Niles took the sleeping child and began to walk away.
'Now all I need to do is get rid of Jakob…' Samantha thought as she tried to think of something that would cause Jakob to leave his post. Fortunately, opportunity presented itself. A young woman with light blue hair walked up to Jakob.
"Jakob, do you-oh! Felicia! Are you hurt?" She asked as she knelt down.
"I-I'm fine Flora. Just…I messed up."
"One of her usual blunders." Jakob remarked as he finished dusting.
"Jakob, can you finish dusting the stairs? I've completed all the other tasks and I was coming here to see if any assistance was needed here. I'll help my dear sister if you go finish cleaning the stairs. And while you're at it, I believe I saw a wrinkle in Lady Corrin's sheets."
"A wrinkle?!" Jakob asked almost insulted by the comment. "That won't do." He hurried off to deal with the pressing matter as Flora helped the other woman up.
"Are you hurt?" She asked again.
"I'm fine. Just embarrassed." Felicia sighed with disappointment. Samantha saw this as her opportunity to enter the room.
"I wouldn't." The woman responded to Samantha before she entered the room. "If you're here for a job you'll wait outside like the rest."
"I'm not here for a job." Samantha said quietly.
"That doesn't excuse improper behavior." She said with a stern tone.
"Flora…that's Lady Samantha. Firstborn of Hyrule."The woman's expression turned from stern to shock; her eyes grew a bit bigger as she took a single step back.
"I…forgive me, your grace." She quickly apologized.
"I should have introduced myself." Samantha replied before bowing her head. "Lord Leo wishes to have a meeting with me. I hope both of you won't mind if I enter."
"W-Well…" Felicia began, but the older woman cut her off.
"Not at all." The other woman smiled. Samantha smiled as she quietly opened the door and snuck inside the room. It was incredibly dark with only a few lights on in the middle of the room. Samantha saw the royal families standing on each side. She quietly hid behind a box and eavesdropped on their conversation.
"…understand your point, Xander." The oldest man said on the left side of the table; Samantha knew him as Ryoma. "There is no doubt in any of our minds that we should act. But…killing our allies? The consequences-"
"Damn the consequences!" The tall blonde haired man slapped a fist on the table. "It is a mercy killing. We shall mourn them later, but for now, if they pose a threat to Nohr or Hoshido, the appropriate way to handle them would be to end their lives quickly and with as little pain as possible." Xander folded his arms and shook his head. "I'm surprised that this is even up for discussion."
"It doesn't seem right. What they have done for us-"
"It's us or them." A red haired woman said as she stood next to Xander. "Brother, I don't wish to harm our allies, but if the reports are to be believed…if what Lord Chrom and Lady Robin told us is true…we shouldn't hesitate. This is the right decision."
"You're always thinking about the smaller picture, Hinoka." A purple haired woman said as she stood next to Ryoma. "But what about the long term? And what if the other countries hear of this? If the Mushroom Kingdom were to find out we were the ones who ended Princess Peach's life…"
"They don't have an army." Hinoka scoffed.
"True, but what about Daein? What about Crimea? Begnion? Hyrule? What if they find out that we attacked their rulers?"
'So it's not just Hyrule. Queen Elincia…Queen Micaiah…Empress Sanaki…'
"But reports tell us that Tellius is untouched." Hinoka pointed out. We don't need to worry about-"
"Then what about Hyrule? We know that our dear friend Zelda has been changed. Plus, she attacked her own daughter!" The older woman said with a hint of anger.
"That doesn't matter. If she comes here, I'll paint the streets with her blood." Hinoka cracked her knuckles.
"Maybe they can still be saved. Hinoka, for once, please think about this." A silver haired man said next to the purple haired woman. "Camilla has some sense to consider sparing their lives, why can't you?"
"Typical Hoshidan." A younger blonde haired man shook his head.
"You got something to say, Leo?" The silver haired man said with a bit of anger and he scowled at the man.
"Please, Takumi…I make simple observations. You wish to spare these creatures…they aren't even human. We know nothing of what they want. Perhaps they wish to harm our kingdoms and our families? What then?" Leo asked with a smirk on his face.
"Why can't we be friends with them? Maybe a big ol' hug is all they need?" The youngest blonde haired girl stood next to Takumi and giggled before twirling around without a single worry in her head.
"N-No. No! We have got to kill them! All of them!" The young red haired girl stood next to Leo and yelled out before looking down and her face turning as red as her hair. "S-S-Sorry…" She quietly added with a barely audible tone.
"This is why we've asked you to come, Corrin. Azura." Ryoma informed the two girls. "We need a unanimous decision and we are currently split four to four. The two of you seem to agree on everything, so what should we do?" Corrin looked at her blue haired wife with a smile.
"Well…" Corrin spoke with a smile while she took Azura's hand. "I know that Azura will agree with me when I say that we must kill-"
"Save them." Azura said and the two women looked at one another.
"Excuse me?" Corrin asked.
"Did you say kill them? What's wrong with you, Corrin?" Azura asked, almost insulted by her wife's answer.
"What's wrong with me? What's wrong with you? They are no longer our allies. They are a shell of who they used to be. Soulless husks whose only desire is to kill everyone else. There's no question about what we should do."
"We cannot give up hope. We mustn't give up on saving them. They wouldn't give up on us. If we were the ones who were in need, they'd try everything to save us." Azura insisted and walked to Ryoma's side while Corrin huffed and walked towards Xander's side.
"Great." Ryoma sighed and rubbed his forehead. "Five on five…what do we do now?"
"Well…I have an idea." Leo began while Samantha leaned in to hear his idea and as she did, she felt something start sliding off the end of the box.
'Nonononono NO!' Samantha thought as she tried to grab whatever it was, but failed to grab it. What followed was an incredibly loud crash and all ten heads turned towards her direction. Samantha quickly hid behind the box to hide herself.
"Show yourself!" Ryoma's voice boomed and filled the room.
"Typical rat problem in Nohr. You know if we met in Hoshido-"
"Mind your manners, peasant." Leo quipped without taking his eyes off the box. Samantha peered from the box and noticed all ten heads still looking in her direction.
"What'd you say?" Takumi asked with more anger than before. "I swear, Leo-"
"That's enough, Leo." Xander said with anger in his voice.
"If you'd let me speak, I know who that is." Leo said while pointing in that direction.
"How do you know who that is?" Hinoka asked.
"Xander sent Niles and Peri to purchase milk for the people of Nohr. While they were picking up the shipment, they came across that individual." Leo informed the group.
"Alright, humor us. Who is that person?" Takumi asked with a great deal of doubt in his voice. Leo didn't answer; he simply walked towards the darkness.
"Samantha! I would like to have a word with you." Leo called out.
"Samantha? As in Lady Zelda's daughter?" Corrin asked. "She's here?"
"That's impossible." Azura said.
"Samantha, please." Leo called out again. Realizing that she was in trouble and she was too old to try and delay any punishment, she quietly walked towards them with her head lowered in shame.
"Samantha?" The red haired girl asked.
"Maybe…" Azura began sneaking behind the young girl. "Maybe it's…a ghooooost!" She placed her hands on her shoulders and the girl screamed in terror. Azura quietly laughed, but the girl was still mad with her.
"A-Azura! Th-That's not funny!" She pouted, but her eyes started watering like she was about to cry.
"Sakura, it's only a joke. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings." Azura apologized. Sakura wiped her tears away and nodded.
"She…She's not really a ghost…is she?" Sakura asked quietly as she hid behind her.
"No…at least…I don't think so." Azura said.
"I'm glad you're here." Leo said. "Although I wish you actually listened to me and waited outside. But what's done is done."
"Sorry…I just…yesterday, when Niles asked me to come-"
"Which I'd also like to ask why you didn't come here yesterday." Leo asked annoyed. Samantha didn't really have an answer for him and she looked away in shame.
"Will you please explain why she was waiting in the first place?" Ryoma asked. Leo sighed and faced the group.
"We've all read the reports. The names of everyone who have…died or changed or whatever you want to call it." Leo began. "Zelda, Peach, Krystal, Marcus, Ness, Lucina, Luigi…"
"Do you have a point?" Takumi asked before feeling someone slug him in the arm. "Ow! What-"
"Be silent!" Hinoka said while giving him an angry look.
"The point…if you'd learn to be patient for a minute…"
"Leo…" Camilla said like she was giving him a warning. Leo cleared his throat and continued.
"Samantha has seen them turn. Zelda, Krystal, Marcus, Lucina. She has actually witnessed the transformation. If anyone can give us guidance one way or another, it's her."
"Samantha, what I'm asking is…well…it's a bit much, but I would greatly value your opinion. We've read reports that individuals are turning into…something. They attack their own kingdoms or they're families."
"Yes. I…my mother. We…" Her eyes started watering and she pressed her lips together.
"So you have seen these transformations." Ryoma said to confirm Leo's story. "I'd like to ask you a question. Do you believe there is a way to save those who have been transformed? Or should we simply end their lives?" Everyone looked at the princess with anticipation. Samantha remembered her fight with her mother and she remembered her mother shed a tear before beating the hell out of her. Tears fell down Samantha's face. She wiped them away before taking a deep breath and exhaling.
"I…"
"Both kingdoms are weighing on this decision." Takumi informed the princess.
"Idiot. Don't make this decision any harder for her." Leo snapped.
"Idiot?! I'll kill you right now!" Takumi yelled and charged for the young Nohrian boy. Leo stood his ground and was ready to right, but Ryoma held his brother back.
"Takumi, no!" Ryoma said. "Calm down."
"He calls me an idiot and I'm the one who needs to calm down?" Takumi asked.
"Let her provide her answer. Whatever she says, we will consider it in our decision." He let go of Takumi and he walked to the other side of the room to cool off. "My apologies, Samantha. Please do not let Takumi's attitude sway your decision." He said calmly. Samantha took a few deep breaths and calmed herself down.
"I…I…I can't!" Samantha shook her head and lowered her head in shame.
"You can't?" Leo asked and Samantha nodded her head. "What a shame."
"Leo!" Xander snapped. "We're asking a lot from her. She has traveled all this way and the first thing we do is ask her to make a difficult decision. Unacceptable." Xander shook his head with disapproval. "Samantha, may I offer you a room to stay for the night?" Xander asked.
"How wonderful." Camilla chimed. "It's been so long since we've had guests."
"We could have a sleepover!" Elise cheered.
"…I don't think it's a good idea." Leo said quietly. "If the Nohrians find out she's stay here…"
"They won't." Ryoma said. "As long as she stays within the castle, there should be no issues."
"Issues? What-"
"Agreed. If she stays inside, we can keep her safe." Xander nodded. "Corrin, may I ask-"
"I'll see to it that they prepare a room for Samantha." She glared at Azura for a moment before walking away from the table. "Samantha." She called out for the princess. Samantha looked back and quickly followed out the older woman.
"I-I'm sorry…" Samantha apologized to the princess.
"It's fine." She said as she pushed open the door and walked out. "Flora!" She said with a bit of surprise then quickly concern as she noticed Felicia's clothes were soaking wet. "Felicia!"
"I'm so sorry!" She apologized as Corrin sighed with a bit of frustration. "I can tell you're mad-"
"Not at you…discussions are…" Corrin ran her hands through her hair as she groaned loudly and kicked the bucket down the hall. "God fucking damn it."
"May I ask what happened today?" Flora asked.
"Azura didn't have my back. We're more divided than ever and nothing is getting done. We have no idea what to do next and we're not prepared if those…things come to attack either one of us. I'm afraid someone I care about is going to get hurt." She took a few deep breaths and calmed down. "I'm sorry." Corrin quickly corralled the bucket and walked back to the girls. "Flora, can you fix a room for Lady Samantha? She'll be spending the night? Felicia…can you take thirty?" She looked disappointed and nodded her head before slowly walking away. "Samantha, I'll catch up with you later, Flora…whatever she needs."
"Of course." She quickly walked away with Samantha following her. "Did you have that young child with you when you arrived?"
"Yes." Samantha added.
"She should be on the next floor." The two began walking upstairs and then took a left at the top of the stairs.
"So…is she your student?" Samantha asked.
"Felicia? No she's my twin sister." Samantha couldn't believe what she was hearing.
"Twin sister? But you…she…I mean…"
"She's a bit clumsy, yes…but deep down…I know she is trying her best. And Lady Corrin is a humble and kind woman to work for. Do you not have retainers in Hyrule?"
"I…I don't." Samantha felt a bit saddened.
"Oh…I…apologize." Flora said quietly and the two continued walking towards the room.
"Does this castle have, like, a mess hall or something? I want to show how everyone how sorry I am."
"By working in the mess hall?" Flora asked.
"Maybe if I make something for them, they won't be mad at me." Samantha said.
"You are such a thoughtful young woman. Of course I can show you…" She paused for a moment. "…you do know how to cook? Right?" Samantha nodded and she stopped walking.
"Your room is right here. Did you want to freshen up first or shall we head right for the mess hall?" Samantha was about to speak, but Flora continued talking.
"I'll bring a fresh set of clothes to your room later tonight. I requested Niles bring a new set of clothes for the young girl. Samantha quietly entered the room and Genny sat at the edge of the bed with a blonde haired woman was painting the child's toenails.
"You're going to look so pretty when I'm done." The woman giggled and the child giggled too. The young laguz girl turned to see Samantha walked through the door.
"Sam!" The girl cheered but the woman stopped the child from flying towards her caretaker.
"Honey, we're almost done." The woman told her and Genny stopped moving so the woman could finish painting her nails.
"Lady Charlotte!" Flora said. "I apologize for disturbing your night."
"Oh don't worry about it." Charlotte said as she finished painting the child's nails. She blew the paint on the nail. Genny pulled her foot back a bit and laughed.
"That tickles." She laughed and Charlotte moved the girl's foot and continued blowing on the paint.
"You can't walk for a little while." She told the girl. Genny reached for Samantha and she sat next to the child. She held the little girl's hand as she admired the beautiful shade of pink.
"It's really pretty." Samantha admired while Charlotte sat back down and smiled.
"And we also have the honor of serving young Samantha!" Charlotte gushed before turning to Flora. "I don't suppose I could ask you to ensure Samantha's stay is uneventful."
"I will do my best." Flora said.
"If…can I make a request?" Samantha asked.
"What kind of request?" Flora asked.
"Can Felicia be the one to assist me during my stay in Nohr?" Samantha asked. "I know she messed up with the mopping, but…" Samantha smiled. "I feel like she's trying her best." Flora's smile spread across her face.
"That would make her night. Everyone always acts like she's a nuisance, but deep down, she tries her best. Hearing that she was handpicked by the Hylian princess…oh she's going to love it. Thank you so much!" Flora's cheeks turned a rosy red and the room started getting cold.
"Brrrrr…" Genny started rubbing her arms and shivering.
"Flora!" Charlotte yelled. "Out! Get out! I don't like the cold!" Charlotte said with anger.
"I…I apologize. I'm just…so happy. May I be excused to-"
"Yes! Do whatever you want! Just get out!" Charlotte pushed Flora out of the room and shut the door before sighing. "I suppose we'll need to move you to another room." Charlotte said as she opened the door to check for Flora. Inside the room, on almost every surface, was a thin layer of snow. Genny reached out for Samantha again and this time, Samantha picked the child up.
"Are you cold?" Samantha asked before Genny snuggled up to Samantha for warmth.
"I-I-I'm c-c-cold…" Genny complained.
"Let's go to a different room." Samantha said as the two left with Charlotte to find a different room. As they were walking down the hall, the pink-haired woman from before ran towards them.
"Samantha!" The woman called out. "Er…I mean Lady Samantha. I was told you asked me to assist you while you stay in Nohr. I'm so glad!" Felicia smiled and the hallway began getting cold. But before Samantha could react, Charlotte slapped Felicia's shoulder.
"Stop it." She warned.
"O-Oh…Sorry…" Felicia apologized and the cold weather stopped. Charlotte walked down the hall to a new room and opened the door.
"This will do." Charlotte said as she gestured for the girls to enter. Samantha sat down on the bed and set Genny next to her. Charlotte knelt down and checked the paint on the girl's toes and smiled as she realized it was dry.
"All done." Charlotte held out her hand and the two had matching nails.
"Your turn!" Genny said to Samantha.
"Painting nails? I don't really-"
"Oh come on." Charlotte insisted. "It'll be fun."
"Oh…alright." Samantha held out her hand and Charlotte began cleaning her nails before painting them the same shade of pink that she and Genny had.
"We all have pink nails." Genny clapped while Charlotte was finishing up with Samantha's hand. She grabbed the other hand and started cleaning her nails. Samantha looked up and could tell that Felicia was observing with anticipation.
"Do you have somewhere to be?" Samantha asked. Felicia's face turned bright red.
"I…um…s-s-sorry." Felicia started heading towards the door.
"Felicia…" Samantha called out before she left. "I was just asking if you had someplace to be. I'd like it if you stayed."
"I…I can stay?" She asked.
"Do you want your nails painted?" Samantha asked.
"I shouldn't." Felicia looked down and glanced at her shoes.
"You work for me as long as I'm in Nohr, right?"
"I…uh…well…yeah. I guess that-"
"In that case, I order you to sit down." Felicia stood at the door; not knowing what to do. "Now!" She pointed at the end of the bed and Felicia quickly moved back to where she was sitting before. "Now you're going to wait there and when Lady Charlotte is done with my nails, I will personally clean and paint your nails…unless you don't want your nails painted." Samantha said with a smirk.
"No, I want it! I-" Felicia paused and cleared her throat. "I mean…I suppose if you're willing to…" She looked down in embarrassment.
"Felicia…if you want me to do something for you, just ask. I'm not against a little bit of manual work."
"O-Ok." Felicia squealed with excitement as Charlotte finished painting and drying Samantha's nails.
"Looks good." She said cheerfully and handed the bottle to the princess. Samantha got down on her knees and began removing and cleaning Felicia's feet.
"This…This feels weird." Felicia said quietly.
"Why? Because I'm a princess and you're a maid?"
"Yeah…"
"I'm not your typical princess." Samantha smirked as she finished cleaning Felicia's heel and toenails. "Remember, my mom was a bounty hunter before she became a queen."
"Zelda was a bounty hunter?!" Felicia asked with surprise. Samantha looked up and smiled before shaking her head and painting her toes. "Oh…You mean Samus."
"What was her nickname? The big bad bounty hunter?" Samantha laughed as she continued painting Felicia's nails.
"What did you say?" Samantha laughed.
"That was her nickname. I swear! I'm not making it up." Charlotte insisted.
"I should call her and…" Samantha paused and remembered the promise she made to her Aunt Malon. "Lady Charlotte, do you happen to have a phone I can use?"
"Yes, of course…but it's connected to the wall." Charlotte said while playing patty cake with the young girl. Samantha planned to make the call when she was done and continued painting the maid's nails.
"Do you want to make a call?" Felicia asked.
"It can wait. I said I'd work on your nails personally and that's what I'm going to do." Samantha said as she continued painting the woman's nails. She finished her toenails and moved on to her hands.
"I-Is there any way I can repay you?" Felicia asked.
"I don't want you to repay me. You work your hardest to protect Corrin and her family. You deserve to be pampered every now and then. I doubt Corrin or Azura would mind doing this every so often. Have you tried asking them?"
"How could I ask them such a thing? There's no way I could ask them."
"I don't see what the problem is. It's just a question." Samantha finished with one hand and began working on the other hand. As she began working, there was a knock on the door. Charlotte opened it to show Elise and Corrin standing at the door.
"There you are! Sam! We're having a sleepover, remember?" She said with a cheery tone.
"I know, but I was taking care of Genny, and Charlotte painted my nails, and then I wanted to paint Felicia's nails…by the way, Corrin…"
"No! Samantha! Please-"
"Is it too much to ask either you or Azura to paint Felicia's nails every few months or so?" Felicia's face turned bright red and she tried to hide her face from embarrassment.
"Felicia…of course I wouldn't mind." Corrin said. "In fact, I'm a bit disappointed you didn't ask me sooner. I've been meaning to ask you, Flora, and Jakob what you would like since the anniversary of your hiring date is coming up. Since Samantha took the opportunity of painting your nails from me…" Corrin said with a slight hint of anger towards the Hylian princess. "What else can I do for you?"
"Well…um…" Felicia was thinking of something as Azura came by and wrapped her arms around Corrin's waist and Corrin yelped in surprise. Azura kissed her cheek and both women smiled.
"Are we talking about the surprise we got Felicia?" Azura asked.
"And what gift did we get Felicia?"
"Those adorable red high heels that she was gushing over yesterday." Azura smiled and Felicia's jaw dropped.
"Those shoes cost three hundred dollars! You didn't really spend all that money on me, did you?" Felicia asked while Samantha finished and began making sure the paint settled.
"It's already in your room." Azura smiled while Felicia squealed with delight. Both Azura and Corrin smiled seeing her delight. Samantha finished the other hand and stood up.
"We're good." Samantha said and turned to Charlotte.
"How did you end up with Genny though? I remember seeing her with Niles."
"Yes. But he felt uncomfortable changing a stranger's child. So he found me and asked if I would. She was just waking up and she's so adorable." Charlotte said with a smile and waved her fingers at the little girl. Genny waved back and managed to get off the bed and walk over to Samantha. Samantha picked her up and turned to Elise.
"Can you direct me to the phone?" Samantha asked.
"Sure." Elise cheerfully said as she skipped down the hall and Samantha followed.
"Where we going?" Genny asked.
"I need to make a phone call." Samantha told the young girl as they finally approached a computer.
"Elise…come on. Seriously, I need to make a phone call."
"Yeah. This is our phone." Elise explained. Samantha realized that the phone had a screen for video calls.
"Alright, fine." She sat down and began dialing the number for home. When she finished, the screen showed three dots while it rang. Finally someone answered and a young man answered the phone.
"Hyrule castle. How can I-Oh! Lady Samantha!" The man said.
"Hi." She said with a smile. "Is grandpa around?" She asked.
"Sir Daphnes is waiting for dinner. I shall go retrieve him at once." The man got up and quickly made his way from the phone.
"Want to meet my grandpa?" Samantha asked and the little girl nodded. A few moments later, Samantha saw a plate set down followed by a large man sitting in the chair in front of the camera.
"This had better be…"He stopped and noticed who he was speaking to. "Samantha." He cleared his throat. "My apologies, child. I…it's been a few stressful days."
"I miss you, grandpa." Samantha said with a big smile. "It's been so long since I've returned home."
"Ah yes. Perhaps it's not the right time. I assume you have heard the news?"
"I have. And…they have every right to blame me."
"Samantha." Daphnes said sternly. "This is not your fault. You are not to blame for these unfortunate circumstances. They should not be mad you." He said.
"But it's true! Since we last talked, Marcus, Krystal, and Lucina of Ylisstol have all died because of me. If I stay away from home, it will be safe."
"Samantha…I will never accept that. You are a gifted young woman. The doors of Hyrule will always be open to you."
"But-"
"I will hear no more of that nonsense. You are the firstborn of Hyrule. This will be your kingdom one day and I won't allow the citizens of Hyrule to ruin your good name by spreading false tales about you." Her grandfather smiled and yawned. "How…" He exhaled and rubbed his eyes. "However…I must finish my meal. It's quite late here and I've been working…" Daphnes began coughing before clearing his throat once again. "I've been busy as of late."
"Grandpa, are you getting sick?" Samantha asked with concern.
"It's just a cough. No need to worry." Daphnes told her. "Will you be staying in Nohr?"
"For the time being, yes." She said. "And this is Genny. The young girl I was telling you about." Samantha held up the young girl.
"Hi!" Genny said with excitement.
"Hello little one." Daphnes said cheerfully. "Samantha, I will arrange to have your brothers call you tomorrow. For now, I…" He began coughing again.
""Grandpa, please get some rest. That cough doesn't sound like it's just a cough."
"If it will help you rest at night, I will go see the doctor first thing tomorrow." Daphnes vowed.
"Thank you, grandpa. Goodnight. I…I love you. I love you so much. Please let Lilly know I love and miss her too." She smiled and her cheeks turned a light pink.
"I love you too, Samantha. I will pass on your message. Goodnight." He held up his hand and smiled before the call disconnected.
"Ready to go?" Elise asked.
"One second. I…There's one more person I want to call." Samantha began dialing another number and it began ringing again. Finally, someone picked it up and sighed. It was a man with tan skin wearing a white hat and green sunglasses. He also had on a white coat and no shirt underneath.
"For the last time, I'm not interested in-" The man looked up and stopped talking as he saw it wasn't a regular telemarketer on the phone. "Oh. Hello." He said calmly while continuing to write stuff down. "What can I help you with?"
"Sorry. I think I dialed the wrong number." She quickly hung up and dialed the number again. It rang and once again, the same man answered the call.
"Hello again." The man said and Samantha immediately felt embarrassed that she called the same person twice. "Who are you trying to reach?" The man asked, still writing stuff down at his desk.
"I…this was the number my sister gave me if I ever wanted to call her."
"Who's your sister? Lilly?" He looked up and asked.
"No. Her name is Virginia."
"Virginia hasn't worked here in three years." Samantha couldn't believe what the man had said.
"Three years? But-"
"She was here a few days ago to pick up some files, but she found a different passion in helping injured Pokémon. They call her the Pokémon center on foot." He laughed. Samantha felt heartbroken that she had no idea. The man looked at her and could see her saddened expression. "I have her number if you want to call her." Samantha's eyes lit up.
"Please." She looked around and found a pen and paper. She wrote down the number that this man gave to her.
"Thank you, but…may I ask who you are?"
"I'm Professor Kukui. Listen, I'd love to stay and chat, but as you can see, I've got a lot of paperwork. Tell Virginia we miss her." He waved goodbye and Samantha hung up the phone. She dialed the new number and it began ringing. A woman close to her age answered the phone. She had short brown hair and beautiful blue eyes. She was wearing a white top and what looked like white sweatpants.
"Hello?" She answered.
"Um…is…is there a woman named Virginia staying here?" Samantha asked nervously.
"Sure! One second." The woman ran away from the phone and a few moments later, a young girl with brown hair and bright green eyes sat in front of the screen.
"Yes? How can I-" She froze as she stared at the screen. "S-S-Sam?" She asked with a barely audible voice.
"Ginny…" Samantha said as her eyes were watering. "I miss you…" The young brunette girl smiled as tears fell down her face.
"Sam…I…I miss you too."
"Is this your sister?" The other woman came and Virginia's face turned bright red.
"S-Serena…" Virginia said nervously while the girl giggled.
"I don't think we've been properly introduced. I'm Virginia's girlfriend, Serena!" Her words sunk into Samantha as she looked at her younger sister.
"Girlfriend?" Samantha asked. Virginia just nodded without looking up.
"You're still the shy young girl I miss and love." Samantha smiled. "I'm happy you've found someone." Virginia smiled and looked up at her sister.
"Sam!" Genny pulled on her sleeve.
"Who is she?" Virginia asked before gasping. "Did you and Marcus have a child?!" She asked with excitement.
"No…it's…" Samantha sighed. "It's complicated. What's wrong, Genny?"
"I'm hungry." She said and Samantha's attention turned to Elise.
"Can you get Genny something to eat? I'll join you in a bit."
"Okie-dokie." Elise took the child and happily walked towards the mess hall.
"Have you been paying attention to the tournament?" Samantha asked.
"N-No." Virginia said like she had let her older sister down.
"Well…hey Serena…can you make sure Virginia doesn't faint."
"Uh…sure." Serena glanced at Virginia and then back at the screen.
"…mom is dead."
"WHAT?!" Virginia practically screamed. "How? When? What happened? I-I-I…" Virginia covered her face and started sobbing. Samantha's heart sank as she watched Virginia's heart breaking.
"There…There's more." Virginia sniffled and looked at her sister. "Marcus, Krystal, Lucina…they're all…" Samantha voice faded and Virginia just sat there in silence while Samantha wiped away her tears.
"There…There's so much I want to ask you and even more I want to tell." Samantha said quietly.
"Can…Can I ask you a question?" Virginia asked. "How did you get this number?"
"I called the number you left me. And Professor…Kukui, was it? I think that was it. He picked it up and gave me your new number." Virginia nodded her head.
"He's really fun." Virginia smiled. "I…I suppose you want to know about us." She turned to look at Serena and the girl smiled back at her girlfriend.
"I would love to hear how you met…but I want to hear about it in person. I swear…I'll make plans to visit you once I return Genny to her parents."
"And…where does she live? That girl. That's…um…" Virginia was trying to guess where the child was from.
"Kilvas." Samantha helped her sister. Virginia groaned and shook her head.
"See, that's why you're so great…and I'm not." Virginia pouted.
"Virginia, that's not true!" Samantha protested. "You're great at a lot of things. You have a bigger heart than anyone I know." Samantha told her younger sister. Samantha then noticed a tall looking fox trying to peer into the camera in the background.
"Who's that?" Samantha asked and the two girls turned their heads.
"Braixen!" Serena said in a disapproving tone.
"She-She wanted to see what we were doing." Virginia reasoned. Braixen came closer and looked at the camera. Instead of being upset, Serena giggled and smiled.
"Braixen, this is Virginia's sister."
"Braixen brai!" Braixen smiled and Samantha couldn't help but smile back.
"She's so pretty. How do you get her fur to glow like that?" Samantha asked with amazement.
"A lot of brushing and a whole lot of love." Serena smiled.
"Serena, Virginia! Dinner's ready!" A voice called for the two girls. Both Virginia and Serena looked towards where the voice came from and then back at the computer.
"Coming mom!" Serena called back. "I'll buy you some time. But don't keep us waiting." She kissed her girlfriend on the lips before running downstairs. Virginia looked back at the camera and felt her ears burning.
"It's serious." Samantha said with a smirk.
"I…yeah…I really, really, really like her."
"Virginia…just say it." Samantha said and Virginia's smile grew a bit wider.
"I…I love her, Sam. I really love her." Virginia said with a smile. "We've been together for two and a half years, but I just feel happier with her around." Virginia said with delight.
"Virginia!" The voice called out. She turned to the voice and back at her sister.
"Sam, I've got to go. But…promise me you'll come visit. Please? We have so much to talk about." Virginia said.
"Sure, but…where are you?" Samantha asked.
"Oh…um…I'm in the Kalos region."
"What town?" Samantha asked.
"Vaniville Town."
"Ok." Samantha wrote down the town name and the region where Virginia was staying. "I promise I'll visit soon. I'll find a way to go there."
"I'm holding you to that. I love you, Samantha." Virginia said while holding up the sign language symbol for love.
"Love you too, Ginny. I'll see you soon. I promise." Samantha held up a peace sign with one hand and Virginia disconnected the call.
'I'll come visit you, Ginny. I promise' Samantha thought as she sat in the chair and looked at the blank screen. She stood up and looked around for anyone who could help her find where the others were.
"Hello?" She called out and the only person she saw was Flora.
"Lady Samantha, are you attending the sleepover?" Flora asked. "The others are in the family room, if you'd please follow me." She quietly led the princess.
"So who's older? You or Felicia?" Samantha asked.
"I am older by fourteen point five seconds." Flora said with pride. "As the older sister, I've tried my best in guiding my dear sister to try her best. Once again, I want to thank you for giving Felicia the opportunity to work for you."
"Actually, I was thinking of working for her while I'm here." Flora stopped and turned to look at the princess with surprise.
"You…want to serve her." Flora asked again as Samantha nodded. Flora smiled and began laughing.
"What's so funny?" Samantha asked.
"I have never met anyone quite as unique as you. You are remarkably special." Flora turned back and continued walking towards the group. A few of the girls were laughing and giggling while sitting next to the fireplace. Among those sitting there: Charlotte, Felicia, Elise, Corrin, Azura, Camilla, Hinoka, Sakura, Hana, Effie and Genny."
"Sam! So glad you could finally join us." Camilla joked.
"Be nice." Elise pouted. "She was talking to her sister."
"Virginia? Oh it's been so long since I've seen her. How is she?" Corrin asked.
"She's well. She…" Samantha quietly giggled. "She has a girlfriend, now."
"She does?!" Charlotte squealed. "What's her name? How long have they been together? Where did they meet? Where was their first date?"
"Charlotte, slow down." Azura said with a little laugh. "Those are personal questions. You don't need to-"
"Serena, two and a half years and I don't know the rest of them." Samantha laughed. "I'm kind of excited to meet her. She's incredibly pretty and the way she goes on about her…Virginia has given Serena her heart. I'm so happy for her." Samantha said quietly.
"That's so wonderful." Felicia said before turning her head. "Flora…aren't…aren't you staying?"
"I must prepare for-"
"Flora, please stay with us." Corrin asked. "Don't make me beg. I'll do it if you don't."
"Please don't." Flora sighed and took a seat. "Very well. I shall stay for a few-"
"Nope." Corrin said. "I'm going to order you to change out of your work clothes and relax with us for the night."
"You…I don't understand." Flora said as her eyes slightly narrowed.
"Flora, you word harder than any of my servants and you deserve a break. Tell me, Samantha hasn't painted your toenails too has she?" Corrin asked with a cringe of anger.
"Corrin, let it go." Azura told her wife.
"I…I suppose I am a little tired." Flora said as she bowed her head. "I'll return in a few moments."
"Everyone!" Elise said while holding up the little girl. "This is-woah!" Genny quickly squirmed out of the Nohrian princess's grip and flew towards Samantha. "Aw…" Elise said sadly.
"Sam." Genny said as she nuzzled against her shoulder. Samantha gently held the girl a little tighter and tickled the girl.
"Aw, what a cutie pie."A brunette smiled before Genny hid her face.
"Genny's not a fan of large crowds." Samantha told the group.
"Hana, d-do you have the s'mores?" Sakura asked. Hana grabbed a plate with a dozen s'mores and handed it to the princess.
"D-Do you want one?" She asked.
"After you." Hana told her friend.
"You can have one…you know. You don't need to wait for me." Sakura told the young woman.
"I don't mind." She said as she threw a s'more into her mouth.
"I'm famished." Effie said as she threw two s'mores in her mouth at the same time.
"You just ate!" Elise said loudly.
"That was just a snack." Effie said while she took a sip from her personal water canister.
"Are we watching a movie or something?" Camilla asked to change the subject. "How about one of my horror flicks?"
"N-No…I-I can't!" Sakura said as she began shaking with fear.
"Horror is off the table." Hana said. "What about a simple rom-com? Lady Sakura loves a good rom-com."
"Ugh! No! Too boring." Hinoka said while shaking her head. "Something with a whole lot of action sounds great." As the rest of the girls debated what they should see, Samantha walked over to the movie case and looked at what they had. Genny reached out and managed to partially pull out one movie.
"Found one?" Samantha asked as she pulled it out. To her surprise, it was a movie about her mother.
"From Chump to Champ: The rise of Samus Aran." Samantha read as she glanced at the cover. There was a very young version of her mom on the left, and her mom if she were closer to her current age on the right.
"Found something?" Corrin asked.
"It's…just a dumb movie." She put it back and turned back.
"What was it?" Corrin asked again.
"Do you want to see it?" Camilla asked with a smile.
"No…I don't…it's not important." Samantha said while biting her bottom lip.
"If I can guess which one it is, we'll watch it…deal?" Camilla asked and Samantha nodded. Camilla got up and walked over to the young woman and examined the movies. Her finger grazed over the one she pulled out and Samantha quietly inhaled and held her breath. She moved her fingers away and Samantha quietly breathed a sigh of relief.
"This one." Camilla pulled out the exact movie Samantha pulled out.
"How did you know?" She asked as Camilla chuckled.
"The look in your eyes…you were focused on this." Camilla looked at the title of the movie. "Have you not seen this one? I would've assumed your mother has this." Samantha nodded her head.
"It's one of my favorites." Samantha admitted.
"Well, that settles it." She took the movie back towards the group. "I have our movie!"
"What is it?" Corrin asked.
"From Chump to Champ: The rise of Samus Aran." Camilla started putting the movie in. "As our guest, it's only fair that she gets to choose." A mixed reaction from the group followed Camilla's comment, but they all agreed to watch it. It began playing with announcers speaking from past matches of her mother followed by a title card.
"What's this?" Genny asked.
"This is a movie about my mom." Samantha said with a smile. It started with Samantha's mother, Zelda sitting in a chair facing the camera.
'Mom…' Samantha thought as she starting missing her mother again.
"A name that everyone knows…a name that competitors fear…Samus Aran is more than just a fighter. She's a friend to all, a hero to many, a loving mother, and a queen to a loyal nation. Her closest friends are her biggest rivals and we should delve into what makes Samus such a fierce competitor." It started out with Fox McCloud sitting down like he was doing an interview.
"What makes Samus such a threat? Isn't she just another pretty face?" Zelda asked the fighter.
"I think that's what people used to think. Before she had her reputation, Samus was just another pretty face; another girl with the unrealistic dreams of winning the tournament." Fox began. "But with the fire in her eyes, the passion in her heart, and the will to prove others wrong, Samus was capable of being a potential threat. I've never seen anyone fight with as much passion and aggression as she does." The camera changed to Link sitting in a different chair and he was giving his interview.
"She's the kind of competitor you hate to love and you love to hate. Her power is second to none and if you're fortunate enough to gain her respect, you're put in a very small group." He said.
"And now?" Zelda asked.
"Samus is the measuring stick. If you managed to beat her, chances are that you would end up winning that year." The camera faded back to Zelda sitting alone; facing the camera.
"A great fighter, and a great opponent…" Zelda began narrating. "Before we can get to what Samus is, we need to go back to what she used to be. Before the fame…before the respect…Samus Aran was once considered a failure, and a joke."
"I think that first match really helped me become the person I am today." Samus said as she sat in a different chair…hours past and everyone else, including Genny was fast asleep, Samantha was still up and eager to re-watch the history of her mother.
"I was on top of the world. A three time champion and nothing else could shake me. Winning was all I cared about…until this five foot ten fragile little woman who calls herself Zelda." Samus smiled and her cheeks turned a rosy red. "I'll say at first, I thought she was cute, but the idea that a big bad bounty hunter like myself could be seen with a fragile, innocent princess like her…I felt it could never work."
Hours past and Samantha hung on every word. Details she knew and others she forgot. Finally the movie was coming to the end and Zelda was sitting across from her wife with a pen in her mouth; ready to interview her wife and the star of the movie.
"You married some five foot ten drama queen." Zelda began.
"Uh huh." Samus smiled and nodded at the princess.
"A five time champion…"
"Right."
"Mother of four…"
"Yep."
"Future hall of famer."
"Oh come on…" Samus scoffed.
"Any regrets?" Zelda asked. Samus looked away and sighed.
"No-well…I mean, everyone always has regrets with their lives. You know…things they wish they could've done differently or better. But I think my biggest regret is something I can do nothing about." Zelda raised an eyebrow.
"Care to explain?" Zelda asked.
"Those who saw my final match, it was against my daughter, Samantha." A few photos showed Samus squaring off against her daughter. "It's a bittersweet moment, because the competitor inside me wanted to retire on top. Winning one more championship and riding into the sunset as the greatest female fighter of all time…but at the same time, the mother inside me is proud that I guided my oldest child to her first championship. Any proud parent would be grateful for the chance to fight their child in a situation like that. But what keeps me up at night is wondering if Sam would last four or five minutes against me if I were still in my prime."
"You don't think she could beat you?" Zelda asked.
"Oh no. She wouldn't stand a chance." Samus shook her head without hesitation. "I wish there was some way I could turn back the clock…some way where I could see for myself. If I could fight her when I was younger, I have no doubt I'd win."
"You said that about me once." Zelda smirked.
"I trained you too." Samus folded her arms.
"Why must it always be about you?" Zelda joked.
"This is my movie!" Samus started laughing as Zelda joined in and the credits started to roll.
'Mom…that was great!' Samantha beamed as she turned off the TV and made her way back to her pillow. She pulled the blanket over and snuggled up with the laguz child.