Gladiolus

by IAmStoryteller

Three years after the battle against the Elves, everyone thought that the biggest threat was over. No one expected a foreign wizard to screw everything up for a lot of the Magic Knights of the Clover Kingdom. PART 1 Gladiolus Verse (Black Clover Canon Divergent AU)

5. Chapter 5

SPOILERS FOR LATEST CHAPTERS!

Well, here's another monster 16k chapter.

Enjoy it! Cry over it. Scream at me in the comments.

Warnings: Suffocation, Blood, Canon-Typical Violence, War, Prisoners of War (if these are sensitive to you don't read it)

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Black Roses
(Meaning) Death

Heart Kingdom
Heart Capital City
The Red Palace
Private Apartment of the Queen of Hearts
17th Day of the Curse
Morning

Julius sat on the couch in Ophie's room while she rested on her bed. She was still coughing up the black rose petals, but she looked much more alive than she did in the Clover Kingdom. It must be the natural magical energy of the Heart Kingdom, Julius mused to himself. They had returned to the Red Palace, home to the royals of the Heart Kingdom for generations, a couple of hours after they landed in Tulgey Woods. After much fuss from the Royal Guards and the Queen's Council, she was sent to rest.

Naturally, she dragged Julius along with her as her honored guest "for saving her life", but only because he knew that she wanted an explanation.

"So, are cough you going to tell me what cough cough the hell is going on, Julius," Ophie asked, arms crossed and a glare in her eyes.

Julius put his hands up, defensively. "Ophie, I never meant to lie to you or hurt you. It was a necessary deception."

Ophie scowled. "Alright, cough start at the beginning."

"There's nothing really to tell. You know we had trouble with the Eye of the Midnight Sun and the magic stones. Well, when Patri, who we all thought was Licht at the time, took over William's body, attacked the Capital, I had to stop him from killing everyone. The battle took a lot out of me," explained Julius. "By all accounts, I should have died. But the amount of magic that I used did something weird to me, by turning me into a 13-year-old again."

Ophie hummed, indicating that she was listening.

"After that, the Magic Knight Captains and I decided that it would be best to hide me from everyone else, including the Magic Parliament, as I was significantly weakened, so we faked my death. Only select Magic Knights know I'm still alive and live as Edward Kairos of the Purple Orcas," he finished telling her.

Ophie let out a huge sigh. "I suspected as much. cough cough The moment I realized it was you, which I was stupid cough and should have realized it sooner, because you look the same as you did when we were young, cough cough cough I figured it was something to protect Clover. cough I was just hurt, because we've known cough cough each other forever. But I get it. We both have our responsibilities."

Julius made a pained face. "I am truly sorry, Ophie. I wanted to tell you but couldn't risk it. But now you know, so you won't say anything right?"

"Don't worry," said Ophie, grinning, "Edward, your secret is cough safe with me."

Julius smiled. "I knew I could count on you."

Ophie suddenly heaved and more flowers came spilling out of her mouth. Julius jumped up from sitting to rush to grab the waste bin to stick in under Ophie's face. He patted her back and winced. She coughed some more and cried a little. Julius hated see her in pain and ill.

"Ophie, the flowers are for me, aren't they?" It was something he suspected since entering the Tulgey Woods when she began coughing up flowers even more. Julius noted that when the affected person began feeling even more affection and fondness, the more the flowers grew and it caused them more pain.

Ophie nodded, affirming Julius' fear. She stopped heaving, though the black petals fell from her mouth. "I've cough cough been in love with you since we were twelve, Julius."

"Oh, well, uh, that's unfortunate," said Julius, coughing awkwardly into his hand. It really was rather unfortunate. "Why didn't you ever say anything?"

Shrugging, Ophie replied, "My older brother was a fool who abandoned his duties. cough I was the second child, the only one left. I couldn't leave my Kingdom to suffer because I wanted to be selfish. And… cough cough cough cough I knew that you would never leave the Clover Kingdom, as you had your own dreams to accomplish as Wizard King."

Julius understood where she was coming from—they both had big dreams of change for their Kingdoms. Julius, as Wizard King, had tried to change things for the better in terms of equality for all levels of society. His changes began slowly but he knew that with the newest generation great things were happening. Ophie, as the Queen of Hearts, had her own struggles, wanting to open up the Heart Kingdom for better trade and culture exchange. It was one of the reason why they hit it off so well when they first met.

Not many ten-year-olds had massive dreams as they did. It was probably why Julius had been drawn to Asta and Yuno when he first met them. The two had big aspirations and Julius had been the same way at their age.

"I loved you too, Ophie," admitted Julius. He had loved her. He loved her fiercely until the moment he sat in the crowd at her wedding to another man, a man who was the brother of the Clover King. With his heart broken at 28, he tried to focus himself. It may also have been when he started pseudo-adopting his outlier magic knights, like Yami, Dorothy, William, and oh, now he knew why he did it.

Ophie laughed. "God, what a pair are we? cough Worst timing ever."

Julius smiled, awkwardly. "Ophie, I'm sorry that we were not better at being selfish."

"We were big dreamers, Julius," said Ophie, softly. "I know you have someone waiting for you to grow up again. cough cough"

Flushing, Julius turned his head. "Maybe…"

She pulled him into a hug. "You're my dearest friend and that will never change." Due to the age gap, Julius almost felt like he was hugging his mother again, but he enjoyed the hug.

"Thank you. You're my oldest friend," quipped Julius.

Ophie gasped, playfully and swatted him on the head. "Hey, now!"

Julius laughed and then Ophie started laughing too.

Just then, the door to her room burst opened and a boy of sixteen rushed into the room. In one fell swoop, Julius was knocked off the edge of the bed, where he had been sitting, landing on the floor. He looked up to find the black-haired and green-eyed teenager crushing Ophie in a hug.

"Mom, are you alright? When Father and the rest came back and told me you were sick, I was so worried. And then you're three bodyguards came back before you. And now you show up with some random Clover Magic Knight, throwing up flowers," said the boy, speaking fast, like how Ophie normally was when she wasn't growing a garden in her chest.

Julius knew this boy. This boy was Ophie's only son. The Crown Prince of the Heart Kingdom, Julian Eldan Theodore Nova Heart I, was a spitting image of his mother in her youth, except he was most notably male. It was like the Kira family genes barely existed in him. He had her eyes and her hair. And her button nose. Julius shook his head. Honestly, it was looking into the past.

And then Julius was reminded that he was the boy's unofficial godfather too.

"Oh, Jules, I'm fine, stop squishing me," said Ophie, fondly, ruffling her son's hair. "You're taller and bigger than me now!"

"Mom, I wanted to go and bring you home, but the council said that that the Wizard King and the Magic Knights were handling it," said Prince Julian, sending an accusatory stare at Julius, who sweated. "And how did he get in."

"He's my old friend Julius' son," said Ophie, quickly. "I granted him a rune pass due to the emergency. Edward Kairos, this is my son, Julian."

Julius internally thanked Ophie's quick thinking. Politely as possible and thinking it was weird to have this boy, who Julius held as a newborn, be so grown. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Prince Julian. I'll leave you two alone to talk. I need to contact my team on the outside."

"A guard can take you to the room, I assume Mom granted you one," said Prince Julian. He had a makings of a king in him by seemingly taking control of the room. Ophie must be having him train in the Special Magic Forces, the Heart Kingdom's wizard army, if Prince Julian's plain clothes and short hairstyle was any indication. "Thank you for protecting my Mom."

"It is my duty as a Magic Knight to protect everyone," said Julius, honestly. "Good morning to you, Your Highnesses." He bowed slightly and exited the room, but not before realizing, as Prince Julian launched into everything that happened since Ophie left, that Ophie was not coughing anymore.

His friend was cured.

Julius was happy.

Location Unknown
17th Day of the Curse
Possibly Morning

Nozel opened his eyes. His head was pounding. It must have been the side-effect of whatever poison hit him in the first place, he thought to himself. He forced his eyes opened to observe his surroundings. Nozel was bound with anti-magic bindings, so he really couldn't move much. He was in some sort of transport device and the only person in there with him was Vanessa.

Attempting to shift to get a better look at his fellow Magic Knight, Nozel winced. Vanessa was bound, just as he was and her little fate-defying cat was gone, meaning that it probably was locked away since her mana was too. She had several bumps and bruises. There was a large gash on her head. She was out cold.

He did not see Sal, Levi or Owen, meaning that they either got away or they're dead. And knowing those three, they got away. It was unfortunate that Vanessa got captured with him. He would have to thank her. She must have tried to stop them from taking him.

Suddenly, their transport stopped, and the tarp opened and in stepped a couple of Spade Kingdom assassins.

"Oi, looks like the royal is awake. But the witch ain't."

"Damn," said the other assassin.

"You're going to regret this," said Nozel, wondering why he was left ungagged.

"No, the Clover Kingdom is going to regret getting in the middle of the Spade Kingdom's business with the Heart Kingdom's main bitch," said the first assassin. "Just like this little pretty witch is going to regret risking her neck for some royal cuckhold like you."

"How uncouth to refer to women in such ways," Nozel retorted, with an air of superiority mastered from a lifetime of acting better than everyone.

Not only did he not like how that man referred to several women he knew and respected, he wanted them to get mad in order to find some sort of opening. The priority was freeing him from the anti-magic binds. One he had his magic, he would be able to handle the situation and rescue himself and Vanessa. And once the binds were off of him, he would able to free Vanessa. Together, they would escape. Hopefully, her head wound was not too bad.

The assassins did not like his response so they decided to punch him a couple of times. If training alongside Fuegoleon taught him anything, it was how to take a punch.

Nozel spit out some of the blood that came from getting punched in the head several times. He said, "Honestly, now I know why you needed so many to take town a team of six Magic Knights, you're weak individually but together, you're numbers overwhelm. Fascinating waste of my time."

"ENOUGH! Stop beating the Royal. We need him to look presentable." It was another, probably the leader, sticking his head through the tarp. "And don't touch the witch. We need them both for the fighting pits."

Nozel did not like the sound of that news at all. How was he going to save them both and get them back home? He would preferably save them before Yami and the rest of the Black Bulls come charging into enemy territory to rescue Vanessa.

The Spade Kingdom was a dangerous place if you were a Clover Kingdom citizen or a Heart Kingdom citizen. And he and Vanessa were being dragged into it.

"Damnit," he whispered.

Clover Kingdom
Tota
Vaude House
Sitting Room
17th Day of the Curse
Mid-Morning

Angry and annoyed, Langris had to endure the praise and cooing from his mother, while his father sorted out some business matter. All he wanted to do was to find out if Lady Finesse was safe and get her back to his brother's side. He had the Golden Dawn to run until Yuno stopped being stubborn and just confess to that idiot Asta already. Langris bit the inside of his cheek to stop himself from snapping at his mother.

God, how he could have listened to her fawn over him mindlessly all these years? How could he had let it get to him and make him an asshole?

Thankfully and finally, his father entered the sitting room. "Langris, it is rare that you take time to visit us. We know you're very busy."

With no more spare time, Langris jumped into the situation. "I went to see Lady Finesse because she had not visited Brother in days. I was concerned. Lord Calmreich refused to even speak to me and referred to me to you. What is going on?"

His father sighed. "Finesse is perfectly safe. Her father and I thought it would be best if she didn't see Finral anymore."

Langris grimaced. "Is she not a grown woman? I don't care if she wants to spend time with Finral, why should anyone else?"

"Right, well, it's rather inappropriate, don't you think? An engaged woman meeting with her fiancé's older half-brother," his father replied.

"The wedding will be moved up to next month," cheered his mother.

Langris did not know that fact. "What? What do you mean?"

"Well, you are 23 years old and Finesse is not getting any younger," said his father. "We were going to tell you soon, actually, what we decided."

Langris snapped, "I told you that I don't want to marry her! I refuse. She's not in love with me. She loves Brother! I refuse, absolutely refuse."

"You're a Vaude, Langris, there's no room for romantic nonsense," said his father, scolding him as if Langris was a child and not a grown man, with a career in the Magic Knights, a wizard who fought in countless battles to protect the Kingdom. His father was a sniveling nobleman, who never had to work for anything. No wonder Zora Ideale spent time harassing the nobles and royals.

Langris glared at both his parents. "I am not marrying her. I will be with someone that actually loves me. And besides, Lady Finesse is being locked in her house. You do realize that's kidnapping? As a Magic Knight, it's my duty and privilege to protect and rescue civilians."

He got up and opened a portal. His parents were screaming at him, but he didn't listen. He just jumped through and landed at the entrance of the Golden Dawn Headquarters. There was, of course, protective barriers so no one could get in and out by magic, but only by the front door.

Luckily, he landed right in front of Mimosa. (And no, he was not going to think about it like his magic took him to her, don't be ridiculous. He didn't have time to think about it). She and her team had been returning from their mission. "Langris, you looked angry. Is everything alright?"

"Not really," he admitted.

She grabbed his arm and dragged him inside, somewhere quiet where they could talk. "What's wrong? Did you talk to Lady Finesse?"

"Her father locked her in her room. Apparently they are trying to get me and her married by next month. I just spoke with my parents," said Langris, still seething that his parents were still trying to control his life. "They are trying to keep Lady Finesse and Brother apart for their own benefit."

"Ah," said Mimosa. She sighed, hands on her hips, and a smile on her face. "Well, don't you think it's time that you talk to Finral? There's no way about this, after all."

Langris hated that she was right.

Clover Kingdom
Capital
Shopping District
18th Day of the Curse
Afternoon

"Come on, Leo, it's over this way," said Fragil, pointing in a vague direction. Leopold managed to drag himself out of the Vermillion Homestead that morning when Fragil showed up wanting to take him out. Since his mother was resting from working in the infirmary, Leopold did not have to babysit the girls. Naturally, Astride immediately invited herself in order to spend more time with Leo. His second cousin and his Azure Deer friend were now buddies.

"I'm hurrying, geez," said Leopold. He honestly was waiting until his brother and mother let him go back to the Crimson Lions headquarters. Not only was he behind on training, but he needed to help run the squad with Randall since Mereoleona was busy with the girls' situation. He managed to convince his brother that he'll be fine in a few more days, so he won't have to wait a couple of weeks anymore.

"You two will love this place," said Fragil. He was glad that she convinced him to come out to eat sweets. "The pastries are so tasty."

"Haven't had sweets like that in ages," Astride sighed. "On the ship, it's usually fish, fish and mystery stew."

Fragil gasped. "What's mystery stew?"

Astride grimaced. "You don't want to know."

"Oh my God, don't scare Fragil," said Leopold, rolling his eyes. Astride was totally messing with Fragil, who had never been on a ship before. "Mystery stew is basically leftover stuff. There's nothing bad in it that you wouldn't normally eat."

Fragil giggled. "I thought it was like rat's meat or something." Leopold and Astride traded looks, silently agreeing not to tell her that in dire circumstances that it was exactly rat and/or seagull meat in the mystery stew. Luckily, Fragil got distracted by a shop so did not notice the looks on the two Vermillions' faces. "Oh, wait, let me stop at this paint place to check to see if the Captain's order came in!" Before Leopold could respond, Fragil was entering the art shop.

Astride laughed. "She's cute! She got a boyfriend or a girlfriend?"

"No," said Leopold, indignantly. "And don't you dare even think about it! Fragil's too sweet for you, demon woman." Astride was his cousin and he loved her but Leopold knew exactly how Astride was with significant others, breaking hearts left and right of all genders.

"Alright, alright, she's off-limits, got it," Astride said. She clapped Leo on the back to show that she understood. Why were the women in his family so violent? "But seriously, I'm glad that you came out. When Auntie Solace told me that you've been sulking since you got rejected, I was worried."

Leopold frowned at his cousin. "I wasn't sulking."

"Seemed like it," said Astride. "It's not like you."

Shrugging, he replied, "It's not easy getting over someone that you've been in love with for a few years, you know?"

"I guess," said Astride, making a face. "You know, I want to meet this person that got you all messed up. He's got to be something amazing."

"If you visit us more, you would definitely run into him," said Leopold, tiredly. "He's still my friend, after all."

Astride looked like she wanted to say something, but they were interrupted by Fragil exiting the shop, arms empty. The ice user smiled, wearily, "The Captain's order is late."

"Will he be annoyed?"

"No, he'll just use his magic," said Fragil, wincing. "I see clean-ups in my future now."

Leopold nodding sympathetically. Rill had a whole other level of insanity but it seemed that it was par for the course for Magic Knight Captains. "Well, we have a sweets to look forward to, Fragil!"

"Yeah," said Fragil, pumped up for eating good food. "Oh? What were you two talking about while I was gone?" The three continued down the streets of the capital.

"I was just asking about the anti-magic guy," said Astride, honest and forthcoming to a fault at times. The twinkle in her eyes grew as she grinned. "Leo! Let me introduce you some of the awesome guys on my ship when you're ready."

Leopold did not say anything because there was no way that he was ready to even fathom loving someone else. The words of "no, that's not happening" were caught in his throat. He knew that his second cousin was well-meaning in her offer, but he just was not ready. Thankfully, Fragil was a good friend.

"Oh, Lady Astride, would you like to hear about the time Leo and I went on a mission to defeat a rampaging ancient sand worm in the Forsaken Realm," interjected Fragil. Fragil was purposely being cute, Leopold knew. Fragil may have seemed ditzy, but she was very cunning.

"Woah," Astride said, in awe. Like all Vermillion, she would be distracted by a story about a great fight. "Do tell, do tell!"

Leopold chuckled as Fragil launched into that particular story that cemented their friendship. He was really glad that he came to hang out with his friend today, even if his thoughts still went to Asta.

"And then, oh, Leo, do you remember what you said when it almost ate me…"

Leo grinned at Fragil as he jumped in to tell the story with her as Astride listened, fascinated. It was a decent day. Tomorrow would be even better, because it would be one more day to heal. He'd get over Asta eventually.

Eventually.

Clover Kingdom
Vermillion Homestead
Sitting Room
18th Day of the Curse
Evening

The girls were well-fed as usual. When they were well-fed, they tended to be a lot calmer, especially Blue, who was more aggressive than Hanima and Sabriel. Mereoleona knew the best time to get Vice-Captain Vivian over to check them out was when they were calm, tired and full of food. It took a few days before Vivian had time to stop over since Nozel was out an important mission and she was running the Silver Eagles in his stead.

"Let me check them over one at a time," said Vivian. Nebra had come with Vivian, merely because Vivian needed directions to the Vermillion Homestead and Mereoleona had a suspicion, thanks to Nozel, that Vivian and Nebra spent most of their free time together anyway.

"Let Blue go first," said Mereoleona. If Blue did something, then Hanima and Sabriel would be more comfortable to do it next. Mereoleona picked up Blue and placed her in front of Vivian.

Vivian had a blood-affinity magic. Normally that would be a witch-like ability as the Witch Queen was known to have the same magic affinity, but Vivian was also an expert in ancient runes and seals in order to use them in conjunction with her magic. Mereoleona knew that Vivian's unusual magic affinity caused Nozel to pick her for the Silver Eagles, despite Vivian being a commoner.

"Alright, Miss Blue," cooed Vivian, softly, her purple eyes turned red as she activated her magic. "This will not hurt." Mereoleona watched as Vivian inspected the arms of Blue. It took about five minutes.

Blue, to her credit, did not freak out with the strange wizard looking at her tattoo seals. Mereoleona was glad that Blue looked more curious at Vivian's grimoire.

"Done. Thank you, Miss Blue," said Vivian, smiling gently at the 11-year-old.

Blue rushed back over to Hanima and Sabriel, speaking in excited babbling that Mereoleona was unable to understand. She really needed to get them into lessons for language. Of course, she didn't expect them not to speak the language they were most comfortable speaking, but each of the girls needed to communicate better to become more independent of each other.

Vivian repeated the same process with Hanima and then Sabriel.

"So," asked Mereoleona once Vivian was done. "What do you think?"

Vivian sighed. "I have both good news and bad news, Captain Mereoleona. The good news is that I recognize the patterns. The bad news is that it's a highly complicated removal process that I won't be able to do on my own. We would need a whole team. And I wouldn't want to do the removal process right now on them."

"Okay, okay, back up," said Mereoleona. "Who would be able to help you? I'll make them."

"It would be best to have Lady Solace, Lady Ruth, Dr. Owen, Miss Secre, and Zora Ideale," said Vivian, nodding as she counted them off. "There are some seal experts I know that aren't Magic Knights or Scholars that I can get to help me as well."

"Easy enough," said Mereoleona. "Now, why can't we do the removal process as soon as we get everyone needed?"

"The girls have been malnourished and sick from natural magic exposure for a long time. Their bodies are not strong enough or healed enough to go through the process," said Vivian. "They only been under your care for a couple of weeks, that's not enough time to be well enough to sit through an unsealing magical process."

Mereoleona sighed. "Fuck, my mother would probably agree with you."

"But ultimately we can remove the seals," said Vivian. "Once that will happen, when they turn 15 like everyone else, they'll get grimoires."

"That's all I needed to hear," said Mereoleona. She was pretty pleased, even if there was a wait. "Now, Vivian, can you do you blood tests? Like see if people are blood related?"

Vivian shot a look at Nebra, both were clearly confused. "Umm, yeah?"

"Great, I have one more thing for you to do," said Mereoleona. She had to know for certain if Blue was a Kira royal or not. If she wasn't, then great, it was one less thing she had to deal with concerning the girls. But if she was, no one could ever find out.

"Yeah? Ok. What is it?"

Clover Kingdom
Coral Peacocks Headquarters
Kirsch Vermillion's Bedroom
19th Day of the Curse
Morning

Dorothy was thrilled that William and she were able to recruit Fuegoleon into their plan. Fuegoleon was so beyond stressed as he had not heard from Team Save the Queen or the duo of Asta and Secre in days. Not only that, but the Magic Parliament, the House Vermillion Council of Elders and the King of the Clover Kingdom were breathing down his neck. It was easy enough to get him to agree to let Dorothy and William enact their plan.

Thankfully, she had a healer wizard in her squad, so neither Lady Solace nor Lady Ruth would be required to monitor him. Dorothy brought Kirsch home. She and William surmised that getting the last three stubborn idiots out of the infirmary might help their constitution.

"Thank you, Captain," said Kirsch, laying now comfortably in his own bed in his room. Dorothy and 2nd Class Senior Magic Knight healing-affinity wizard Barry Morton were in Kirsch's room. Barry was going to be constantly checking on Kirsch throughout the day and night. Anything major was to be reported to Dorothy or Levi so that either Lady Solace or Lady Ruth could be summoned. "I'm glad cough cough to be back."

Dorothy smiled at her Vice-Captain. "I just want you to get better. And you have been in the infirmary for more than two weeks now, so I thought this might help."

"You are not to overdue anything, Vice-Captain," said Barry, setting up his medical gear at Kirsch's personal desk.

"Yes, yes, I'll be fine, cough cough" said Kirsch, not before coughing up more red carnations.

Now that Kirsch was in his comfortable space, he might wind up talking to someone about his feelings for Zora. If not Dorothy, then maybe someone else in the squad? Once Kirsch came to terms that the feelings were real, because knowing him Kirsch probably believed that he imagined the feelings, and he had to do something about it.

"I'll come back in a few hours to eat some lunch with you. I have to go check up on Patri," said Dorothy.

Kirsch looked at Dorothy, quizzically. "Uhh, what's cough Patri doing here?"

"Well, our 15-year-olds, 16-year-olds, and 17-year-ods have kidnapped Patri the last time William and him came to visit," replied Dorothy, winking at Kirsch.

Kirsch looked horrified. "Oi! cough cough cough Tell those little hellions not to scar the elf!"

Dorothy just giggled on her way out of the room. Kirsch was already acting more like himself. It was good to hear.

Cherry blossoms
(Meaning) gentle, kind, transience of life

Clover Kingdom
Magic Knight Headquarters
The Infirmary
19th Day of the Curse
Morning

Gauche and Magna came to pick Finral up from the infirmary to bring him back to the Black Bulls' base. Finral was surprised but pleased that Captain William and Captain Dorothy were the architects of this plan—Kirsch was picked up by Dorothy and another Coral Peacock and Yuno was picked up by Mimosa, William and Klaus. Magna and Gauche had been late, because whenever the two of them went anywhere together, they tended to argue about directions.

Finral was not allowed to use his spatial magic until the curse was gone because both Lady Solace and Lady Ruth did not want him overexerting himself with mana use. He just did not know how safe traveling on the Crazy Cyclone was in the first place.

"Can't wait to have you back, Finral. No one but Noelle attempts to scold us like you," said Magna, patting Finral on the back.

"Aw, geez, cough thanks," said Finral. "I can just imagine cough how much paperwork there is now." Since Asta was super busy as a Grand Magic Knight Wizard and Noelle was doing investigations, he knew that they did not have time to do the Black Bulls' paperwork. He wanted to cry at the thought of TWO weeks of backlog of work.

Suddenly, the door to the infirmary slammed opened and in stepped the last person that Finral ever expected to see again in the infirmary, especially since Yuno was now back at the Golden Dawn headquarters. Langris looked angry, but to be fair, Finral's little brother had an "epic resting bitch-face" according to Vanessa.

"Langris," asked Finral. He could feel the build-up flowers immediate in his chest.

Magna and Gauche stepped protectively in front of Finral (which Finral very much appreciated, he had good friends). Magna said, combatively, "What are you doing here?"

Gauche merely glared at Langris as if daring Langris to attack Finral.

"Get out of my way, Mohawk, and Sister Complex," said Langris, dismissively. Finral sighed at his brother's attitude. "No one has time for the Black Bulls' posturing. Lady Finesse is in danger."

"What," Finral exclaimed. "What happened to Lady Finesse? cough cough cough Is she hurt? cough cough cough cough Is she ill?" Finral knew something was wrong when Finesse stopped coming by to see him. He hoped that she was okay and not scared out of her mind.

"Calm down," said Langris, sternly but not mealy. "She's been locked in her room by her father. Apparently, her father and our father have discovered that Finesse and you have decided to be together and they are not happy with the situation. Therefore, you and I need to talk. It's no time for either of us to be stubborn as we have been these last three years."

Finral's worry over Lady Finesse overrode his embarrassment at getting an Unrequited Love Curse for his brother because Langris was right. He was needed. "It's alright, cough Magna, cough Gauche. Let me cough and Langris talk…cough cough in private."

Magna and Gauche traded worried looks but nodded. Magna pointed at Langris menacingly as he and Gauche went towards the door. "If you hurt one hair on Finral's head, you answer to us. You yell, Finral, if you need us."

Langris just glared at Finral's two friends. Once Magna and Gauche left the room, all was quiet except for Finral's labored breathing.

"Talk," said Finral. He did not know if he was going to make it through this conversation without hacking up a lung.

Langris looked rather off-put now that they were alone in the infirmary together. "Well, uh, I was hoping that you would start."

Finral had never heard his brother sound so unsure about anything. Finral could have just waited the painful minutes to let Langris talk, but Finral knew that it took three years and a Curse to get them here. If they waited for the other to make the first move, Finral would die from flowers before long. A voice that suspiciously sounded like Vanessa scolded him to let Langris talk first, but the fact that Lady Finesse was being mistreated, spurred Finral onward.

"Langris, you're my brother and I love you. I have not been the best cough cough brother in the past. I am cough truly sorry for that," said Finral, smiling gently at his brother. "After the whole elf-souls-taking-over-bodies-of-Magic-Knights situation, cough cough cough I found every excuse not to talk to you about what happened. I didn't care what you thought of me, cough cough as long as you were safe. But I see now that I should have taken the cough cough cough initiative and talked to you long before this moment. cough I want us to be brothers, to be like a family should, even if it just the two of us. cough I want us to be able to talk about everything and nothing at all. As long as you want all that too."

Langris looked embarrassed. "I, uh, want that too. I just…I'm not good at feelings or whatever. I can't express myself well ever. I never thanked you for saving me back then. So thank you, Brother, for saving me."

"Langris…" started Finral.

"And…it's my fault too for not talking to you sooner as well. I don't know. I get agitated when I see you with your Black Bull teammates and how close you are to them and how much they care about you," said Langris, clearly frustrated. He probably thought he was not doing the whole taking about his feelings in the right way. Finral was so beyond happy that Langris was expressing himself so much with actual clear words. "I love you too, Brother. I just have a shitty way of showing it. I promise that I'll be better too."

Finral's chest did not feel so tight anymore. And he had ceased coughing in the middle of Langris' speech. Was he cured?

Unable to help himself, Finral pulled Langris into a hug. Langris did not protest. "I am just so happy, right now."

"…are you crying, Brother?"

Finral was crying, in happiness, but that was neither here nor there, because he was not coughing cherry blossoms anymore. "Let's go save Lady Finesse."

"Alright, let's kidnap the princess then."

Finral laughed, because Langris tried to make a joke, but still crying happy tears. First he was cured because Finral's brother actually did love him and now they were going to be rescuing a damsel-in-distress. It was just amazing day all around.

Clover Kingdom
Golden Dawn Headquarters
Yuno's Bedroom
19th Day of the Curse
Morning

Yuno knew that Mimosa, William and Klaus were all up to something. He knew that they were going to try to convince him to confess. He was certain that both William and Mimosa knew for a fact that Yuno was in love with Asta and also that Klaus had his suspicions. However, he also knew that the three were trying their best to look out for Yuno and he appreciated the thought.

And ultimately, he was just really glad to be back in his room at Golden Dawn. He knew that since Mimosa was going to be his healer caretaker from now on that he was not getting away with anything, especially since Mimosa will not hesitate to get Sister Lily to come to help her. Sister Lily had met both Mimosa and Noelle on numerous occasions and the closest person to mother that Yuno and Asta both had loved the two Royal young women.

Thankfully, Mimosa went to get some supplies from Lady Solace and both William and Klaus had to attend to Golden Dawn matters because Langris "taking a personal day." Yuno finally had some peace and quiet to relax and put things into perspective.

Then, there was a knock on his door.

Yuno cursed, but said, "Yeah?"

"It's me, Yuno. May I enter," asked the familiar voice of the Wizard King, the former Captain of the Crimson Lions, Fuegoleon Vermillion.

"Yes, sir," said Yuno. Fuegoleon entered the room and came to sit down in the chair next to the bed that Mimosa will be using for the foreseeable future. Fuegoleon was as regal as always. It was no wonder that he commanded respect. Yuno thought he was a great choice for Wizard King until Yuno was ready for that role. "What can I cough do for you, sir?"

Fuegoleon gave him a pointed look. "We need to talk about the curse, Yuno."

Yuno grimaced. He was afraid that Fuegoleon was going to say that sentence. "To be frank cough, there's nothing to talk about, sir."

"I disagree," Fuegoleon said sternly. "You are one of the most promising young Captains in ages. Bell, the Wind Spirit, chose you. You have a four-leaf Clover grimoire. And you're a hero amongst the citizens and fellow Magic Knights alike. What drew me to you and Asta was your determination to battle your way to the top, to the position that I now hold, as Wizard King, to change the Kingdom for the better for every class. How can you do that if you're dead because you were too stubborn or too scared to admit your feelings?"

"Have you been cough cough talking to Asta cough," Yuno questioned.

Fuegoleon sighed. "Let's me be frank, Yuno. I am not willing to lose you as a Captain or a Magic Knight. You are only 19. Please just tell Asta how you feel. Have that conversation with him. And see what happens."

Yuno frowned. Does everyone know that Yuno was in love with Asta? "But I don't have the same cough cough cough cough curse as the others. He has to return my feelings. And I know Asta. Asta doesn't feel the same way." The coughing fit lasted more than two minutes. Fuegoleon only gave him a stern look. No pity.

"You know, Mimosa and Noelle had been in love with Asta and Leo is in love with Asta, and he turned all three of them down," said Fuegoleon, bluntly. Yuno winced, pushing down the jealousy. "Do you know how many people would kill to be in Asta's position? Three of the most eligible royals of your generation attracted to the only person in the known-world that has no magic, who should have never made it to the level he did. You need to talk to him. Don't assume anything about another person's feelings until they tell you their self."

Yuno bit his bottom lip.

"And if Asta's not in love with you, we'll figure it out from there. Lady Ruth and Mother are going into heavy research now that they are free from infirmary duty," said Fuegoleon.

"Is this cough an order, Wizard King, sir?"

"A friendly suggestion," replied Fuegoleon, "so don't make me make it an order, Captain Yuno."

Yuno scowled, but dared not glare at the Wizard King. "Yes, sir."

Clover Kingdom
Calmreich Homestead
Finesse Calmreich's Bedroom
19th Day of the Curse
Mid-Morning

Finesse paced her room. She had been doing a lot pacing recently. Not only was she stressed about her father being an unreasonable jerk, she was concerned about Finral. Finesse really hoped that Langris or Finral would reach out and talk to each other soon.

Since her mother was on a vacation (from the "stress of Finesse getting cursed" or something), Finesse had no way to undermine her father's authority. Her father would only bend under her mother's will. Her mother picked the worst time to go on a vacation.

"Gosh, darn it to all heck," grumbled Lady Finesse, knowing that if her tutors heard her she would have been scolded and made to write lines.

Once she was tired of pacing, she plopped herself on bed. Thankfully, she was still being well-fed, visited by the doctor for her health (which had always been poor), and allowed to take baths every morning. She missed the outside. She wanted to see the sun. Finesse wanted to visit Finral and spend time with him. She even wanted to make friends with Finral's friends.

A sudden rap-rap-rap at the window startled her. Finesse went to the window and found Finral using a broom to float by her window. She flung the window open and pulled him inside, hugging him.

"You're here! Are you ok? Should you be out of the infirmary?!"

Finral laughed, clear as day and no coughing. "I'm all cleared, milady. Langris and I talked. Everything's ok now. Now we have to get going, Langris is making a distraction downstairs for us to escape.

"Oh thank Heavens, you're better now" said Finesse, still hugging him. Realizing that she may seem like she was clingy, she let go and stared up at him. "So, are you and Langris really ok?"

"Sort of, but we promised to work on it," said Finral, laughing nervously. "Uhh, but Lady Finesse…"

"Just Finesse, Finral, I told you that already," she scolded.

"I just wanted to make clear," he said, softly. "I'm asking you to run away with me and live with me at the Black Bulls' base."

Finesse startled for a moment. He was really asking her! Had she been younger she would have hesitated. Leaving with Finral now, she would be giving up her family, her position, and her inheritance.

"Of course, I'm going with you," said Finesse, smiling widely. "As long as you're with me, I'll be ok."

Finral blushed and held out his hand. She took it, as he opened portal, so they could step through it. They wound up outside of the Calmreich Homestead in an instant, meeting with Langris, who was running.

"Let's get out of here, before the guards catch up," he demanded.

Finral opened up another portal for the three and they all stepped through it, together.

Clover Kingdom
Magic Knight Headquarters
Wizard King's Office
20th Day of the Curse
Afternoon

Fuegoleon placed the latest reconnaissance report from the several Magic Knights he sent to check up on Asta and Secre's progress. It was very bad news indeed. Not only was he going to have to break the news to Yami and the rest of the Black Bulls, but also Yuno. Fuegoleon could not see this going well.

According to the report, the dungeon that he sent Asta and Secre to investigate collapsed in on itself. Fuegoleon knew better than to assume Asta was dead, because this was Asta, Asta was not going to die yet. He still had to become the Wizard King. Fuegoleon was no longer startled at the staunch belief he had in Asta to come back alive no matter what.

Still, as the Wizard King, he had to inform Yami.

He got up from his desk and went to fetch Marx to call Yami and then twenty minutes later, Yami, smoking, was lazily strolling into Fuegoleon's office. He looked eternally bored as usual.

"I swear to God if you have another stupid mission for me, I'm kicking your ass, Fuegoleon," said Yami. "You had better thank God I finally got my transportation back since Finral finally got his ass out of bed."

Fuegoleon sighed. "It's about Asta and Secre. They're unaccounted for…"

"They're missing? Well, knowing them both, they sure as hell ain't dead but the question is where the hell did they go," Yami asked. "Assuming you sent a recon-squad already, no sight of them?"

Fuegoleon shook his head. "Negative, unfortunately."

Yami took a long drag of his cigarette and said, "Well, alright then." Yami turned to leave the office.

Fuegoleon asked, "Where are you going?"

Yami flipped him off and said, "To get my idiots back in one piece, what else?"

And Fuegoleon knew better than to stop Yami when he made up his mind to do something, so he just like the Captain of the Black Bulls go. Besides, Yami would find Asta and Secre and it would be one less thing to worry about today.

Clover Kingdom
Vermillion Homestead
Sitting Room #2
20th Day of the Curse
Night

Mereoleona sighed as she entering her and her mother's favorite sitting room. She had just finished getting the girls to settle down and sleep. Despite offering separate rooms, the girls insisted on sleeping together in one room. Mereoleona was not going to argue since the beds in this house were more than enough to fit three young girls with no issue. Her mother Solace was in her favorite chair, sipping some tea, and a book in her lap.

"Girls finally to bed," asked Mereoleona's mother.

"I am so glad you find this amusing," quipped Mereoleona, sitting in her own favorite chair, and taking the bottle of whisky and pouring herself a glass.

Her mother giggled. "You hated bedtime. Struggled every night to get you to stay in your room and sleep."

Mereoleona opened her mouth to respond, but clamped it shut when she realized that her mother was telling the truth. Probably until she was ten, Mereoleona did have clear memories of being a little terror, not listening to a word her mother or father said, picking on Fuego, and harassing the royal servants. Instead, she opted to take a sip of her whisky.

"Nothing to say, my only precious daughter," her mother teased, taking a sip of her tea. Mereoleona shook her head, until her mother changed her tone to being more serious. "Being a parent is life swimming in an ocean with no life-raft. No one knows what they're doing."

Mereoleona raised an eyebrow at her mother. "You knew what you were doing, Mother. You're a good parent, you and Father both."

Solace smiled, wryly. "I appreciate you thought we were capable. We were actually winging it the whole time. All I knew that was I was going to be better than my own parents no matter what."

"If I can be half-as-good as you are at being a mother, then I'll be happy," replied Mereoleona. "I honestly don't know what I was thinking when I decided on this path."

"The Good Book teaches us that there is only one way to become a parent, but that is a falsehood. There are many ways to become a parent," Solace said smiling gently at Mereoleona.

"When I first ran into them, I was just gonna drop them off at the nearest orphanage," Mereoleona admitted.

"Mhmm, a reasonable choice for anyone else."

"But then…I think I got more attached to them than they are to me," she told her mother. "I admit they were so fascinated with my magic, hunting skills, and survival in the wilderness skills that it was an ego boost. It reminded me of when Fuego and the cousins were younger. It reminded me of Leo too."

"You protect people, Mereoleona. That has been your way forever. Even if you don't admit it," said Solace. "Do you remember when you told me about your fight against the Eye of the Midnight Sun people in their hideout?"

Mereoleona nodded. "The two problem children were with me." When she had divided the Royal Knights up, she had only meant to keep Asta and Zora with her in order to make sure that they did not do anything stupid. She had the feeling they were both the type to mess up a plan—they still were the type.

"You gained both their respect and admiration that day," said Solace, reminding her, "even Zora, whom does not like royals and nobles for good reason."

"Why did you bring this up?"

"Because, the more time you spent with the girls, the more time you realized that you wanted to protect and take care of them," said Solace. "It's why you didn't just drop them off at any orphanage in the Forsaken Realm. And you are my daughter too. You don't have it in you to abandon any child, no matter how grown they are."

Mereoleona grimaced. She hated that her mother was right in this particular matter.

"Mereo, you don't need to be a mother like me. Be a mother like you," said Solace, eyes twinkling in mischief. "I know for a fact that you will be a great mother, if not a bit unconventional."

Mereoleona took another sip of her whisky, she did not want her mother to see her getting misty-eyed.

Stupid mother always believing in her, geez, thought Mereoleona to herself.

Solace giggled.

Clover Kingdom
Blue Rose Headquarters
Outside, Courtyard
20th Day of the Curse
Night

"You want me to what," asked Charlotte. She had been in the middle of training some of her younger members in the courtyard, when Yami, Magna, Luck, Noelle, Finral, and Mimosa arrived on brooms. Charlotte halted training as Yami came over to her. He asked her to go with him with no context, which prompted her question.

"Asta and Secre are missing, I want you to come with me. I might need your ability to uproot shit," said Yami, sighing.

Charlotte stared at him. "Wait, wait, what the hell do you mean that Asta and Secre are missing?!" She wondered if anyone told Leopold. If Mimosa was there with the Black Bulls, it meant that Yuno certainly knew and she doubted that Asta's childhood friend and rival was taking things well.

"Just that. They went on an important mission for Fuego and apparently the dungeon ain't there anymore," said Yami, irritated. He was never good at worrying about people and Asta tended to make him worry all the time. "You coming or not, Prickly Queen?"

Charlotte nodded. "Lerola! Take command while I'm gone! Contact me if necessary." Her sister had been at the outdoor tables working on something or another. Lerola waved Charlotte off.

"Let's go get those two idiots back," said Yami. "Yeah?"

"RIGHT!"

Heart Kingdom
Heart Capital City
The Red Palace
Office of the Queen of Hearts
21st Day of the Curse
Morning

Julius was ready to go home. Not that he didn't love spending time with Ophie, but Julius swore that Prince Jules was plotting "Edward's death." He did not know why for certain, but it probably had something to do with the story concocted by Ophie and himself to appease every Royal and official in the Red Palace.

To everyone but himself and Ophie, he was Edward Kairos, the illegitimate son of the late Clover Kingdom Wizard King Julius Novachrono, who had been Ophie's best friend in her youth. Perhaps, Prince Jules felt threatened by "Edward," as they were physically about the same age, who was his mother's very important and honored guest.

"Your son is gonna kill me," said Julius, entering the office of the Queen of Hearts. He hadn't sensed anyone else in the office, so it was why he just went in.

Ophie snorted, pushing the papers on her desk away from her. No matter the kingdom, it seemed that paperwork plagued everyone. "No. He's just trying to figure you out. Admittedly, Jules is a good wizard and Prince, but he's been around people older than himself for ages. He doesn't know how to interact with people his own age."

Knowing what Julius did about the in-and-outs of the Heart Kingdom Royalty, he knew it was true. Ophie hadn't any friends her own age until she met Julius by chance back when they were ten. Ophie, otherwise, spent time with tutors, trainers, officials, her parents, and guards.

Julius sighed. Prince Jules' glowering face told Julius otherwise. "Maybe, but I think he thinks that you might love me as another son because of "my father.""

Laughing, Ophie replied. "Maybe. But I really think that I need to do something about Jules being around grown men and women all the time. He needs friends."

"Well, when all this mess is over, I'll talk to Fuegoleon. Maybe Prince Jules can come to visit Clover Kingdom," said Julius, thoughtfully.

"The ones I met in the infirmary were all very kind," said Ophie. "I hope they are all getting better."

"Actually, there's only two affected by the curse left," said Julius, recalling his conversation with Fuegoleon via magical communication. "Young Captain Yuno and Vice-Captain Kirsch Vermillion."

"Oh, I'm so glad that Finral was able to talk to his brother," said Ophie, nodding. "Yuno's the tall, dark, handsome one with the loud childhood friend and rival, Asta? And Kirsch is the royal who kept referring to himself as a beautiful and being dramatic, right?"

"Yep, those two," said Julius, nodding at her spot on descriptions of Yuno and Kirsch.

"That makes me feel better. Did Fuegoleon tell you anything about the leads on the possible unit of terrorists plotting against the Heart Kingdom?"

"Unfortunately, no. Sal had been leading the investigation, but she took a break by escorting you back," said Julius. "I'm sure once she's back, she'll go headlong into the investigation. She's bull-headed like that. If anyone could find out a plot against any kingdom, it's Sal."

"She's one of yours from your days in Grey Deer, if I remember," said Ophie, thoughtfully. "If you believe in her, then I will too."

"There's another matter," said Julius, hesitantly.

"Ah yes, the actions of the Spade Kingdom," said Ophie, frowning. "The Parliament, both the House of Royals and the House of Commons, are discussing the matter. I think the worst will be a condemnation decree."

Julius sighed in relief. "Then, I'm sure the Magic Parliament, the King of Clover, and the Wizard King will do the same." Basically, a condemnation decree was a way for one kingdom to tell another that they were assholes in the most polite, diplomatic manner in order not to start a war.

"You're leaving this evening, Julius. You want to take some books with you when you leave," asked Ophie.

"Ah, yes, I would appreciate that very much. I'll even remember to send the ones I have back to you," said Julius, grinning.

"Oh, you are lying about that," said Ophie, laughing. "But I'll have you know that I have a list of every book you borrowed from me."

"I'm sure," said Julius, wryly. "I'll remember this time."

Ophie laughed again.

Of course, they were interrupted by a courier from the Parliament rushing into the Queen of Hearts' Office. "Your Majesty! There's a situation!" Ophie was out of her chair, going over to the young courier and taking the paper in his hands. She patted him on the head to calm him down.

"Your Highness," asked Julius, remembering that they had company now and that he needed to be respectful to her as Edward Kairos.

Ophie read the note quickly, paling, but steading herself to not show weakness. She was a Queen, after all. Folding the note, she said, kindly to the courier. "Thank you. Please inform the Parliament that I will be there shortly with the Council and Prince Jules." The courier nodded and rushed out of the room to deliver the Queen's message.

Once they were clear, Julius went to Ophie. "What happened?"

"Julius. This is very, very bad," she told him, her Queenly disposition breaking in his presence. "The Spade Kingdom sent us an official declaration of war!"

"What?!"

Spade Kingdom
The POW Fighting Pits
21st Day of the Curse
Time of Day Unknown

Vanessa hated cages. Having lived many years of her life in one, this was not doing her any good. In addition, she had not had a good drink in days. And now, she was snuck in a cell with Nozel Silva, and two old timers who had been Clover citizens.

From what she and Nozel gathered, they were brought to the Spade Kingdom's infamous Coliseum, otherwise known as the Prisoner of War Fighting Pits. Certainly, she was aware the Spade Kingdom had other fighting pits for pure entertainment purposes and fighting pits for Spade Kingdom-born prisoners, but this one was where they kept all non-Spade Kingdom prisoners.

The chains that bound them sealed their magic use and their grimoires were confiscated. The fighting pits were a place where one fought without the use of their grimoire. Vanessa was not looking forward to having to do so. She could do it, as she was a Black Bull, after all, but Vanessa preferred otherwise.

Nozel tried to talk to the two old-timers, but they were not talking at all. She knew that he hoped to get some information. But there was something in the back of Vanessa's mind that she knew she had to discuss with Nozel.

"Hey, Captain Nozel," said Vanessa.

"Yes, Miss Enoteca," said Nozel.

"Please just call me Vanessa," she told him. "You're a royal so you know what the higher-ups will do right? What's going to happen to us?"

While she knew that once her family in the Black Bulls found out she was captured, they would come for her, but what if they were unable? Would the Magic Parliament, the King of Clover, and the Wizard King push to rescue them?

Nozel grimaced. "As the Spade Kingdom is clearly not going to ransom me as the heir of House Silva, it'll be up to the Magic Parliament. We are considered Prisoners of War, despite no actual war. If it was up to Fuegoleon, you and I both know that he'd send a team in a heartbeat."

"Well, it is up to the Magic Parliament. And they'll definitely attempt to save you, at least," said Vanessa.

"Not likely," replied Nozel, tonelessly. "And I wouldn't be leaving without you, even if they did try to save me."

"What do you mean "not likely," Captain Nozel," Vanessa asked. She did not address the second part because it was almost sweet, almost like he cared for someone other than his family.

"I have three siblings. Nebra will be able to become the heir. There are more Grand Magic Knights that don't have Captaincies, so the Silver Eagles post can be filled easily enough," explained Nozel. "In addition, the Magic Parliament sees me, along with Fuegoleon, as troublemakers, especially when we jumped to the defense of Asta after the war with the elves. The assholes there would be glad to be rid of me."

Vanessa, stunned, processing what he just told her. "That's a depressing way to call yourself expendable."

Nozel just looked at her, but he didn't look like he was too depressed about it. "In those matters as heir, Captain or royal, I am expendable. But as a brother, cousin and friend, I am not. I suspect that we need to escape before we have all of the Silver Eagles and the Black Bulls busting into the Spade Kingdom and starting a war."

Vanessa smiled, lopsidedly. "Well, you're not wrong. Noelle will be leading the charge."

"She will be," nodded Nozel, "Meaning that we have to get out of here before Sal and Levi report back the news of our capture."

Vanessa nodded. "So, how are we going to escape?"

"I," he hesitated, "have no idea. But we can come up with something."

Sighing, Vanessa leaned against the dirty wall of the cell. Grinning slightly, she said, "Oh, and Captain Nozel?"

"Yes?"

"I wouldn't leave without you either."

Clover Kingdom
Magic Knight Headquarters
The Infirmary
22nd Day of the Curse
Morning

As soon as he heard that only three of the team came back, Fuegoleon rushed to the infirmary to find Sal, Levi and Dr. Owen being checked out by Lady Ruth. Perhaps it was his bias and worry, he went to Sal's side first. She was his wife, after all.

"What happened," said Fuegoleon, taking one of Sal's hands in his.

Sal looked at him, red-rimmed eyes and bags under them. "Nozel and Vanessa got captured by the Spade Kingdom! I'm so sorry, Fuego, everything happened so fast." Sal was beating herself up over it. She would for ages. Fuegoleon squeezed her hand. Sal stopped talking because she was trying not to cry and she was not the type to cry often.

"The Queen and Edward made it safely," interjected Levi, who looked beyond exhausted, but saw that Sal was not going to be able to finish the verbal report at the moment. "We almost all made it, sir. But they targeted Captain Nozel. And Miss Vanessa rushed to save him. I think she may have changed their fate so that they only got captured and not died right then and there, but I can't be certain. There was just so many Spade Kingdom wizards, sir. They were not particularly strong, but the numbers…was too overwhelming for the lot of us. Plus some of them were eating some sort of pill."

Fuegoleon put the pieces together in his head. He said, "Well, I think I may know why there was so many of them. I just got word from, uh, Edward."

"Oh for God's sake, I know that Edward is actually Julius. I'm not an idiot," snapped Lady Ruth, in the middle of healing Dr. Owen, who looked the worst out of all three as he was not a fighter but a healer. "Just tell them, Fuegoleon."

Fuegoleon nodded. "The Spade Kingdom sent a Declaration of War to the Heart Kingdom. The Heart Kingdom Parliament and our Magic Parliament are both in session to plan the next moves of both of the Kingdoms."

"That's bad news," said Sal. "I'll go and rescue Nozel and Vanessa. The Magic Parliament will just twiddle their thumbs in the meantime."

"No," said Fuegoleon. "Sal, I need you here now. You have to finish the investigation about the possible terrorists that worked with the flower curse wizard, most likely they are ex-citizens of the Heart Kingdom. Levi, you are on medical leave, to end at Dorothy's discretion."

"What," Levi and Sal yelled, at the same time.

"Fuegoleon, you can't mean it! What about Nozel and Vanessa?"

"Sir, Captain Dorothy won't ever let me leave again! You can't leave it up to her."

Fuegoleon held up his hands to stop the two of them from yelling at him. "I can and just did. Sal, don't worry about Nozel and Vanessa. I think there's only two people for the job as delicate as this one. I'm going to send them out, before the Magic Parliament makes their decisions, so even if they tell us to forget Nozel and Vanessa, we'll already have a rescue plan underway. And Levi, it's just until your mana exhaustion is healed. Dorothy will most likely being going to sleep once Kirsch is back in shape. You can talk to him then."

Sal and Levi both quieted.

Lady Ruth tsked and said, "Those two got sent to the fighting pits, no doubt. You had better hope the two people you send can get there quickly as possible."

Fuegoleon knew that Lady Ruth was correct.

And now, he had more bad news to report to Yami once he came back from finding Asta and Secre. Fuegoleon did not think it would go as well as since Vanessa was close to Yami's heart as a younger sister figure. And Noelle, Nebra and Solid were not going to be too thrilled either. He was going to have to put restrictions on the Black Bulls and Silver Eagles squads.

Fuegoleon wished that Julius would hurry up and get back. He was going to need some guidance from the former Wizard King.

He needed to talk to his father in the meantime.

Clover Kingdom
the location of the former dungeon at the eastern edge near the border of Clover and Diamond
22nd Day of the Curse
Morning, at the same time Sal and Levi are breaking the news to Fuegoleon about Nozel and Vanessa

It did not take them half-as-long as the first time Magna made his way out to this particular dungeon since they had Finral back in action. Even Finral was on modified duty (meaning no fighting), he managed to open a portal to the town closest to where they needed to go, since Finral had been there previously. Once they found Asta and Secre, they would go back to the town as fast as possible and meetup with Finral to get back to the Capital.

Magna was worried about his two missing juniors, but at the moment, he was way more worried about Noelle. Asta was her best friend and Secre was very dear to her, not to mention they hadn't heard anything about the mission to get the Queen of Hearts back, so she was also worried about Nozel and Vanessa on top of it.

"Little Noelle, you need to breathe," said Magna, as they flew to the location on their respective brooms. Captain Yami and Captain Charlotte were a bit ahead arguing about plans. Mimosa and Luck were in the back. "Everything is going to be fine. This is our Little Rasta, we're talking about here. We both know that he's not dead."

"I know," snapped Noelle. "I just…what if they've been hurt?!"

"Why we brought Mimosa with us," responded Magna. Noelle was the closest to being a little sister to him. He knew that she was not good at emotions and tended to lash out when she was feelings something too complicated. He blamed her shit royal family—especially since knowing the four siblings, Magna knew that none of them were good at any kind of positive feelings. "You can punch Asta for worrying you when we find him. Right now, we need you to breathe and remember that you're a badass Magic Knight."

Noelle scowled, but nodded. She breathed in and out. "Sorry, I snapped at you."

Magna shook his head. "It's ok. I know you don't mean it."

"Still," said Noelle, flushing. She faced forward and set her mouth in a firm line. Asta was going to hear it when they found him.

They finally reached the crater where the dungeon had been and Magna winced. It looked like the whole dungeon collapsed upon itself. No wonder Captain Yami brought Captain Charlotte. With Captain Charlotte's vines, she could tear apart the ground. Too bad Sol was already off on another mission, she'd be even better to have around at that moment.

Everyone broke into pairs to search the surrounding area. If anyone could pull off survival from a collapsing underground cave, it would be Asta. Mimosa and Noelle went in one direction, Captain Yami went another, Captain Charlotte went her own, and Magna and Luck went north.

"Do you think we're going to be fighting any strong people?!"

"Not the time, you nut," said Magna, rolling his eyes at his best friend and rival. "See if you can sense Secre's magic."

"But she can hide it really well," said Luck, complaining.

Magna sighed. "Luck, focus. This is a search-and-rescue mission, not a fighting an enemy one."

"Geez, Magna, I know," said Luck. "But knowing Asta, he definitely ran into someone strong."

There was no argument to that—Asta always managed to find himself against strong opponents. "Fine. Let's keep looking for anything." Magna looked at the ground to see if he could find any traces of footprints. He was not the best tracker, but he knew enough.

"Hey, I see some smoke," said Luck, grabbing Magna's arm suddenly to make him stop walking. Luck was right. Where there was smoke there was fire. Magna and Luck sent off a blast of both their magic to tell the Captains, Noelle and Mimosa that they found something. The two rushed towards the smoke.

"Everyone is coming," said Luck.

Finally they found a clearing where a campfire was roaring with a whole boar being cooked over it. And sitting there was Asta and Secre and a mysterious red-haired and black-eyed man. Asta spotted them first.

"Luck-senpai! Magna-senpai! Hey! What are you guys doing here?!"

Magna rushed forward and grabbed both his juniors in a hug. "You idiots, why the hell didn't you send a message?!"

"Ahh, can't breathe," coughed Asta. Secre just stayed still. Magna released them. Just then, Captain Yami, Captain Charlotte, Mimosa and Noelle arrived. Captain Yami looked pissed.

"What the fuck were you two doing?!"

"Ah, Captain Yami! Oh, hey, Noelle, Mimosa," said Asta, grinning like an idiot. "Oh, Captain Charlotte, hi too." Only Captain Charlotte looked any sort of amused, while Captain Yami, Mimosa and Noelle were glowering at Asta's nonchalant greetings. Noelle charged at Asta, so Magna moved out of the way. She bopped Asta on the head, not meanly or hard enough to do any damage (though she had a nasty right hook), and then hugged him.

"We were worried! And here you are camping," scolded Noelle.

Asta hugged her back, laughing. "I'm sorry, sorry, really! It's been a crazy few days. Secre can explain better than me."

"So who's this guy," asked Magna, pointing at the mysterious guy, who was quietly watching everything and eating a piece of boar meat.

"That's Ember," said Asta. Ember, the mysterious guy, waved slightly but didn't say anything. "But we'll come to him later. Secre, tell them everything!"

Secre rolled her eyes. "Fine. We have plenty of meat, please eat. I'll explain everything as clearly as possible. Though, Captain Yami, Lady Noelle, Lady Mimosa, Mister Magna, Mister Luck, Captain Charlotte, we are sorry that we didn't send a message, we had no means."

"Apology accepted," chorused everyone, because who could stay mad at either Secre or Asta? They were safe, that was all that mattered.

"Anyway," continued Secre. "While Asta and I were investigating the dungeon, I discovered that it was a man-made one. Meaning that wizards forced the dungeon to appear before it was ready, making it unstable. It started coming apart while Asta and I were in the main chamber."

"There was like lava and the rocks were falling and there was a lot of rumbling," said Asta. "We definitely almost died, it was scary."

Secre nodded in agreement. "But then, we were shocked to find that as the ground cracked some more out came a magnificent magical creature, a dragon! The dragon was the cause of the lava. The dungeon was actually a dragon's lair and because wizards forced it up above ground, it woke up the dragon."

Magna had a strange feeling, eyes flickering over to the quiet Ember, who was listening just as intently to the story.

"The dragon grabbed us and busted us out of the collapsing dungeon," continued Secre. "Thankfully, the dragon was smart enough to us cloaking magic so no one saw. The big crater was due to the collapse and the breakout."

"Me and Secre thought we were going to be eaten," said Asta, shaking his head.

"Dragons don't eat humans, I honestly don't know where you got that from," said Ember, finally speaking. He had a deep, rumbling voice. "At least, I wouldn't eat humans. They are too gamey."

"As you can tell, Ember is the dragon that saved us," said Secre, nodding. "Ember was able to land us down, transfigure into a human form to be able to hide and talk."

Everyone just looked at each other. Captain Yami and Captain Charlotte were stunned. Noelle and Mimosa looked very worried. Luck was vibrating with joy, probably excited about the prospect of fighting an actual dragon. Magna did not know what to think. He heard stories about dragons, he was certain they all knew the stories. His Ma use to tell him them when he was a boy. She'd definitely get a kick out of meeting an actual dragon.

"Nice to meet you, Ember," said Noelle, finally remembering her manners. "Thank you for saving Asta and Secre."

Ember titled his head, but not in confusion. "You're welcome, Princess." The way the dragon said 'princess' was strange, almost like he knew Noelle personally and that he was fond of her. Noelle flushed at the tone.

"Uhh, Ember, how do you know Noelle is a Royal," asked Asta. Magna could tell that Asta sensed the same thing. Despite Asta not being in love with Noelle, he loved her and he was very protective of her.

Ember shook his head, as if realizing that he said something weird. "Ah, apologies that was too familiar, Your Highness."

"Who," Secre and Asta asked, at the same time, curiosity getting the better of them. Magna wanted to know too.

"Oh," said Ember, black eyes turning to Mimosa, "Ah, forgive me, for not addressing you as well, Your Majesty." Mimosa startled and flushed.

"Wait, wait, back up," said Magna. He was getting headache. "Dragon-man, you're telling me that Noelle and Mimosa both look like women you used to know?"

"Silvamillion Clover sisters were my charges 2000 years ago, if my timeline is correct, from what Young Asta and Miss Secre told me," said Ember, thoughtfully. "I raised them as my daughters. The oldest looked exactly like you." He pointed at Mimosa. "And the younger looked exactly like you." He, then, pointed at Noelle.

Noelle and Mimosa traded looks. Noelle spoke up, "They wouldn't have been named Ceres and Rheya Silvamillion Clover?"

Ember finally smiled. "Yes, Queen Ceres and her sister Princess Rheya! Ah, I'm so glad they are remembered."

Mimosa grabbed Noelle's hand. The two cousins wore similar expressions on their faces. Magna did not like it at all—especially since Mimosa and Noelle were not open about how much they actually cared about each other, at least in public. "Um, are you Sindra the Bonecrusher?"

"The WHAT?" Everyone else looked horrified.

"Sindra," asked Ember, thoughtfully. Then he growled, like very loudly, almost like he would in his dragon form. "What did he do, Your Highnesses?"

Magna tensed. He knew the name. Sindra the Bonecrusher attacked the Clover Capital—thirty years into the reign of Queen Ceres. The dragon killed Ceres, but definitely had been massively wounded (or died, depending on the version) after Ceres' sister Rheya went batshit insane (how Magna's mother explained it) on it. Rheya died from their wounds a couple of days later. Thankfully, they had both been married and had children already, so the Royal family line hadn't been broken. At least, Magna thought, this dragon was not the same one from the story.

Mimosa explained what everyone, even Secre knew, in soft, calming tones.

"His name is not Sindra the Bonecrusher. His real name is Cinders," said Ember, eyes flickering different colors now. "He was my…uhhh, it's complicated. Did he die?"

"We don't really know, it's been so long," said Noelle, softly.

"He really did it. He really killed my girls," Ember said, softly. "Well, if Cinders is still alive out there, I'll have to kill him." Magna did not blame the dragon-man in the least.

"So," said Asta, smiling. "Can we keep him, Captain?"

Magna slapped his forehead, because of course, Asta would ask that question.

Clover Kingdom
Common Realm
The Town of Oxley
22nd Day of the Curse
Afternoon

Finral was not surprised to see Asta and Secre, safe and sound. He had full faith in both of them. He was glad that everyone came back alright, and he was not worried about the mysterious red-head at the moment (it was probably a new squad member, another weirdo but good people type), because he just got a message from Marx. They were all needed.

"Captain Yami, Captain Charlotte, uhh, there's been some bad news," said Finral, wringing his hands together.

"What happened now," Captain Yami asked annoyed.

"Captains and Vice-Captains meeting ASAP. The Spade Kingdom declared war on the Heart Kingdom. Captain Nozel and Vanessa got captured by Spade Kingdom assassins, according to Sal and Levi. And "Edward" is still stuck in the Heart Kingdom," said Finral, all in one breathe. He was really glad that he was not spitting up flowers anymore. "Magic Parliament is in session. The Heart Kingdom hadn't declared war back yet.

"Well, portal now," said Captain Yami and Captain Charlotte, immediately, in unison. If the two of them on the same wavelength wasn't scary, Finral did not know what was.

Finral nodded and opened a portal to Capital City. Everyone rushed through it, except Asta lingered. Asta hugged Finral quickly. "I'm so glad you're better." Finral chuckled. "It's good to have you back."

"Thanks, Asta," said Finral. "Come on, let's go."

He was mainly worried about Vanessa. She was his best friend, what would he do without her? He just got better too and already felt his blood-pressure skyrocketing. And he didn't even tell Captain Yami that he let Finesse move into the Black Bulls' base either.

Finral's feet hit the ground at the Magic Knight Headquarters.

"What do you mean that I have to babysit the dragon-man, Captain?!"

Poor Magna, he thought amused. Finral was glad to be back in action.

"Wait…the new guy's a dragon!?"

Maybe there was still time to hide in the infirmary…

Clover Kingdom
Magic Knight Headquarters
Captains' Meeting Room
22nd Day of the Curse
Afternoon

This was a really all-hands-on-deck situation, Dorothy thought to herself. She hadn't seen the Captains' Meeting Room this full in ages. Since Kirsch was out of commission, she brought Levi along since he will not be doing anything other than paperwork until his mana exhaustion was better.

Since Nozel was not there for obvious reasons, Vivian (the Vice-Captain) brought along Nebra Silva. In Yuno's place there were William, Langris and Mimosa. Other than the other Captains and the Vice-Captains, Asta, Noelle Silva, Sal Vermillion, Aldebrand Vermillion, Bennett Vermillion (Fuegoleon's cousin, Dorothy knew), and Marx were all in attendance as well.

They were just waiting for Fuegoleon to show up with news from the Magic Parliament, where she was sure he was getting a big old headache from the bullshit there.

"He's late! We should be talking about how we are going to rescue Big Brother," complained Nebra. Dorothy could tell that she was full of nervous energy.

"And Miss Vanessa," said Noelle. Dorothy was glad to see that Noelle sat next to her sister Nebra and was holding her hand in comfort. It was a long time coming.

"The Wizard King already sent a capable duo to rescue them," said Marx, interjected.

"If he's not here in five minutes, I'm out," stated Yami, some of his mana was leaking out that even Dorothy knew not to comment. Vanessa was near and dear to Yami's heart, that must was certain, just like all of the Black Bulls.

"Now, hold on," started Marx. As Yami and Marx began to argue, Dorothy realized that Levi was off in the corner talking to Sal. Noelle was consoling Nebra, while Vivian was busy reading a tome that definitely had nothing to do with the meeting or current situations.

Mereoleona was getting annoyed with everyone being loud, as her mana began spiking. "IF YOU DON'T ALL SHUT UP, I'M GONNA KILL YOU."

"Cousin Mereo, calm down," said Bennett Vermillion, in an even tone. Bennett was about the same age as Fuegoleon. He was a cousin (or second cousin). He had short, neatly kept vermillion hair and blue eyes. He was just as handsome as Fuegoleon.

"Are you telling me to calm the fuck down," snarled Mereoleona.

"Yes. Because Fuegoleon is on his way, right now," said Bennett.

Dorothy remembered now that Bennett was the best tracker in the kingdom and his mana-detecting senses were second-to-none. Mereoleona glared but clamped her mouth shut. Even Yami and Marx stopped arguing.

"I'm here," said Fuegoleon, entering the room. "Sorry I'm late. But we have a lot to discuss."

"Who did ya send to rescue Nozel and Vanessa," asked several people, immediately to Fuegoleon at once.

Fuegoleon sighed. Dorothy felt bad for him—Sal, his wife Dorothy had to remind herself, shot Fuegoleon some worried looks. "I sent Nickole Vermillion and Zora Ideale. Nickole because she's been there before and Zora because despite the way he looks knows how to blend it."

"Oh God, Zora will definitely save them," said Finral, sighing. Dorothy knew that Finral was not up for a mission like that just yet. Asta, Noelle, Nebra and Yami all felt differently, not that they didn't trust Zora, but because they were definitely planning a trip to save Nozel and Vanessa.

"You sent my mother," demanded Mimosa, who never was disrespectful to anyone of authority ever. Langris and William put each a hand on Mimosa's shoulder to make sure that she didn't stand up, furious.

Charlotte interjected. "Lady Nickole is one of the best fighters in the Blue Rose Knights, aside from myself, Lady Mimosa. You need not worry. She's faced many and was victorious." Mimosa gritted her teeth.

"Sorry, sir, continue."

Fuegoleon shot his little cousin a soft look, before continued, "So as you were briefed, the Spade Kingdom captured Nozel and Vanessa during the mission to get the Queen of Hearts safely through her magical barrier border. The Queen of Hearts overcame the curse and she is healthy again. Unfortunately, shortly thereafter, the Spade Kingdom sent an official Declaration of War." Everyone in the room nodded.

Dorothy hated wars.

Fuegoleon sighed, "The Heart Kingdom officially sent the Spade Kingdom a Declaration of War of their own. This puts us, the Heart Kingdom's ally, in a bind. The Magic Parliament already decided. The decision is to provide any provisions of food or water for the people of the Heart Kingdom, but not to get involved militarily as the matter between the Spade and Heart Kingdom is more personal. In addition, the Magic Parliament decreed to leave Nozel and Vanessa where they were."

"WHAT?"

"ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?"

Dorothy could feel the anger in the room of every single one. No Magic Knight would ever want to leave another to die. Not this people in the room, at least.

"Relax, they don't know I sent Zora or Aunt Nickole," said Fuegoleon, calming asserting his authority as Wizard King, "already. I send them for more than just their skills. In addition, another order was given to me by the Magic Parliament."

Dorothy was afraid to find out.

"Concerning the Black Bulls and Silver Eagles' Magic Knight Squads," said Fuegoleon, reading off one of the papers he came into the room carrying. "If the squad as a whole makes the executive decision to disregard the orders of the Magic Parliament concerning the fate of Captain Nozel Silva and the witch Vanessa Enoteca and enter the Spade Kingdom unlawfully, the two squads would be disbanded and banished from the Clover Kingdom henceforth."

Dorothy sucked in a breath and looked at the contrite expressions on the Black Bulls and Silver Eagles' faces. This was not going to end well.

"What about Zora," Asta yelled, over the murmuring and grumbling of the meeting room. "Or Mimosa's Mom?! What'll happen if the Magic Parliament finds out that they went into the Spade Kingdom?"

"Rest your fears about that part," interjected Aldebrand. "We have a technical go around should they discover the mission. As Fuego acted accordingly as Wizard King upon immediately finding out about two of his captured Knights, they cannot be held accountable for whatever the Magic Parliament decrees after the fact. So Mr. Ideale and Nickole will not get in trouble, in other words."

"Do you really expect me to sit around and wait for someone else to rescue them, to let my aunt and my teammate go into danger without backup," Noelle asked, standing up.

"You will," said Fuegoleon, giving Noelle a stern look. Noelle did not balk.

Dorothy thought Noelle never looked more like Acier in that moment of defiance. Acier would be so proud of Noelle. Really, Acier would just be so proud of all her kids and everything they had to overcome. Dotty caught Charlotte and Mereoleona's eyes. She suspected they both were thinking the same thing—Mereoleona even more so as she had been close with Acier.

"I'm with Noelle on this," said Mimosa, standing up, despite William and Langris' best efforts to hold her back.

Dorothy smiled.

Then, Marx startled as Julius's young face appeared on a magical mirror/screen/whatever. Everyone stopped bickering, talking and the like as Marx opened the magical communication to Julius, sitting next to the Queen of Hearts in her office.

"Julius," asked Fuegoleon, confused.

"I suspect the Magic Parliament sent their decision?"

"Yes, unfortunately."

"Let us have the news then," said the Queen of Hearts.

Heart Kingdom
The Red Palace
The Queen of Hearts' Office
22nd Day of the Curse
Afternoon

Julius listened with rapt attention to Fuegoleon explaining everything that the Magic Parliament declared. While he was worried about Nozel and Vanessa, he knew that if anyone would be fine in the fighting pits in the Spade Kingdom, it would be the both of them. Julius was not very surprised with the decrees.

"Well, it is as we figured," said Ophie, sighing, as Fuegoleon paused to scold both Yami and Jack who somehow started a fight.

Julius sighed.

"As the reigning monarch of the Heart Kingdom, it is my duty to protect and serve my people," said Ophie, more to him than the listeners back in Clover. "We have chosen to declare war back, but hope that it actually doesn't come to combat on the ground. I will not let the Spade Kingdom push me around and bully my people. Any aid from Clover would be very much appreciate, of course, we will accept the food and water that you can spare. I wouldn't expect military aid from Clover, when it is a matter between the Spade King and myself."

"Fancy speech," teased Julius. "Good practice. Thankfully they are not listening." Fuegoleon was scolding several people at once.

"Uhh, your brats are the worst," said Ophie, grinning. "I should send you back before things get worse. You are needed there. Obviously." Julius looked into the magic mirror to watch the closest people to actual family he had. They were all worried and stressed. And what was worse, Yuno and Kirsch were both out of the picture.

However, Ophie needed him too, even if she wouldn't admit it in a million years, despite her feelings for him. Maybe, if he remained here, he could stave off war. There might be something diplomatically that Ophie and himself can do to get the Spade Kingdom to back down.

"I'm staying here," declared Julius. Ophie startled and looked at him with wide-eyes. Everyone on the other end of the magical communication stopped. "I'm staying here. Ophie will need me more than you all do. I believe in each and every one of you to do the right thing for Clover and protect everyone in the Kingdom. Fuegoleon, you are a good Wizard King. You have everything you need there to guide you."

"But sir…?" It was Marx.

"Ah, forgive me, Marx. Let this old man be a little selfish and help my old friend out for now. I will be back before long."

Julius watched as each Captain, Vice-Captain and Magic Knight in the room stood up, silently, and saluted him.

"You can count on us!"

"I know I can," Julius smiled. "I'll talk to you all soon."

Amaryllis
(Meaning) worth beyond beauty

Clover Kingdom
Golden Dawn Headquarters
Yuno's Room
22nd Day of the Curse
Evening

Thank God that Mimosa and Langris told him everything. He was so worried when Asta disappeared (and Secre, but mostly he was worried about Asta). Then, everything that was happening with the Spade and Heart Kingdoms, it was not a good situation. Yuno was not able to sleep, he kept tossing and turning and vomiting up flowers.

The flowers changed again this morning. Mimosa told him that they were amaryllis flowers. They were able to blend the blood that came out with them, so it wasn't too horrifying for Mimosa or William or Langris or Klaus to clean it up.

"Yuno, you need to sleep," cautioned Bell. She was to get Mimosa from her room if anything went wrong with Yuno. Bell had her own pillow next to Yuno's pillow. "If you don't rest, you won't be able to think clearly."

"Thank you cough Bell, but you should rest. You have been cough cough taking care of me since Mimosa is busy with Golden Dawn stuff," said Yuno. His wind spirit loved him wholly and while she can be annoying, she was strong and she cared about Yuno. Bell huffed.

She was going to say something snippy but then, the window to his room opened up and in came Asta. Asta, due to the fact that he had no magic, never set off any magical traps or whatnot. Asta climbed into the room.

"Hey, I'm glad that they moved you somewhere more comfortable," said Asta, coming to sit at the edge of Yuno's bed.

Bell grumbled, stomped her feet, but disappeared into the wind to give them privacy. Yuno gave Asta a dark look. "I thought I told you to cough cough pay attention on the mission. Mimosa said cough you almost died."

Asta winced. "Yeah, I mean, Ember was waking up so, of course, it was dangerous. I was paying attention, we survived, didn't we?"

"Whatever," Yuno snorted irritated.

"I just came to check up on you. It's only you and Kirsch now," said Asta, green eyes softening with caring. "And I'm sure once Kirsch gets his head out of his ass, he'll be fine soon enough. It's you that I am worried about the most. Did you think about what we talked about before I left?"

"I did," replied Yuno. "Lord Fuegoleon also spoke to me."

Asta nodded. "Good, maybe you'll listen to him more than me. Whoever it is, I'll support you."

Yuno rolled his eyes. Asta too much of a good friend sometimes. The flowers kept coming out of his mouth, though. He knew that Fuegoleon was right. He didn't have time to die right now, he had responsibilities and dreams to achieve. Yuno knew that he had to tell Asta how he felt. When Asta denied him, he'll just have to hope for someone to find out a different cure for this particular curse.

"Asta…" started Yuno.

"Yuno! Anyway, I also came to say goodbye for now," said Asta, serious.

Yuno stopped. "Uh, what?"

"The Black Bulls are leaving Clover Kingdom for now. We're going to the Spade Kingdom to rescue Nozel and Vanessa and be Zora and Miss Nickole's backup," said Asta, nodding. "Then, we need to find a way to stop the Heart and Spade Kingdoms from going to actual war! And if you're not better when I get back, I will devote everything into finding a cure for you, Yuno. Count on it."

"Wait, Asta, that's not cough cough a good idea. Mimosa told me cough cough what the Magic cough cough Parliament said. You all will be exiled," said Yuno, coughing heavily. Asta was leaving?! Yuno was just about to confess and Asta was going to do something stupid.

"We know. I know. That's why you have to get better Yuno. You have to make sure to look after Sister Lily and the rest in Hage," said Asta, reaching for Yuno to give him a quick hug. "Until I get back, that is! The Magic Parliament won't get rid of us that easily."

"The cough cough Magic Parliament hates you, Asta, cough cough because of the demon in your grimoire. You can't give them cough cough cough more of a reason to hate you."

Asta scoffed. "To me, they don't matter. I know they are just doing what they think is best for the Clover Kingdom. But so I am. It'll all work out, Yuno, trust me on this, alright? I still intend to be the Wizard King, this is just a rocky path."

Yuno shook his head, forcing the tears back. "You're a moron."

"And you're a handsome talented jerk, who is my rival," said Asta, smiling widely at him. "I have got to go. It's a long trip in Henry's house."

"Don't die before you see me become Wizard King."

"Well, that won't happy because I'll be Wizard King. Don't die before then. Promise, Yuno," said Asta. He hugged Yuno once more, tighter and it almost felt like a final goodbye. "Don't die because of flowers, doofus."

Before Yuno knew it or could say anything more, Asta was heading back out the window to meet up with his squad. Bell came out of hiding, with a contrite look on her face.

Yuno, for the time since he was a small boy, cried himself to sleep.

Stupid Asta.

Spade Kingdom
At the border between the Spade Kingdom and the Neutral Zone
23rd Day of the Curse
Dawn, Foggy

Zora had never been outside of the Clover Kingdom. Granted, he was too busy rooting out corrupt scumbags in the Magic Knights to travel outside of Clover Kingdom. The only times he ventured out of Clover was into the Neutral Zone for various missions. He supposed why it was why Fuegoleon sent Nickole Vermillion with him.

It was unsettling, to be honest, Zora thought to himself. This woman was Mimosa and Kirsch's mother, but she didn't look much like either of her children (except Zora noted the sharp jawline that her son inherited, while Mimosa's face was round and cute-looking that she got from her father). In fact, if Zora did not know better, Nickole could have passed as Noelle and her siblings' mother. Then again, Nickole was the younger-by-a-year sister of Acier Silva. Unlike the stories he heard of Acier and knowing from first-hand experience of Mimosa and Kirsch's personalities, Nickole was a serious and skilled Magic Knight of the Blue Rose Squad, 1st Class Senior Magic Knight.

"Once we enter the Spade Kingdom, the fog cover is going to grow," said Nickole as they flew towards the border. "It'll be basically impossible to fly from here on out, so we'll have to walk."

"Do you happen to know exactly where this Coliseum is in these parts," asked Zora, raising an eyebrow.

"I do. I have been there before," said Nickole, nodding. Zora did not need to know why one of the royals was hanging out in fighting pits in another kingdom. It was something more expected of Mereoleona, however. "We need to hurry before Yami lets the rest of the Black Bulls do something stupid."

Zora almost cackled, because he was sure that his squadmates were about to come charging in after them, but then again, it was a serious matter, so he just said, "You're right. Let's get Vanessa and Captain Braid-boy back before we have a bigger mess to clean up later."

Nickole nodded. And together, the odd duo landed on the ground, hid their brooms and entered the Spade Kingdom by foot. It was going to be a long trek.

Ch. End