SPOILERS!
The Canon Heart Queen is fucking adorable and I love her. I'm liking where the new arc is going so far!
So remember this series is now majorly CANON DIVERGENT! I pretty much hijacked the series just after the War against the Elves. (Shrugs)
This chapter is 13K, a bit shorter than the others. Chapters 8-10 will be in the 10k-13k word range. The Epilogue will probably be about 3k.
WARNINGS: Angst
Also
Please don't kill me for the contents of this chapter.
Clover Kingdom
Magic Knight Headquarters
Courtyard where the Black Bulls hideout crash landed just out of the spatial portal
29th Day of the Curse
Afternoon
Magna nervously stood in a line in front of the Wizard King. After the earlier Captains' meeting, the Black Bulls (except Zora and Vanessa, who were still in the infirmary) were called together to get their punishment and scolding from Fuegoleon. Magna knew that they went against orders and not just the Wizard King's orders, but also the Clover King and the Magic Parliament. Thankfully, they hadn't gotten to the Spade Kingdom in time since Zora and Lady Nickole had rescued Nozel and Vanessa in time.
"You are so lucky that I don't have to report this to the Magic Parliament, or you'd be in so much more trouble," said Fuegoleon, arms crossed. He had such a look on his face, a look of disappointment. Magna was able to handle anger, but not disappointment. It was the worst. "First of all, Yami, what the hell were you thinking? I knew what I was doing when I send my Aunt Nickole and your underling Zora to get the job done! You can't just do irresponsible things like that and drag the entirety of your squad into it."
Captain Yami had a rash, still smoking, with a dead stare on his face. "Well, it all worked out, didn't it?"
Fuegoleon sighed. "Not the response I was looking for, Yami."
Captain Yami just shrugged.
"And you, Asta! You can't just do things like this either. You are a Grand Magic Knight," said Fuegoleon, "and we all depend on your anti-magic abilities. Not to mention your precarious status due to the distrust of most of the Magic Parliament and the Clover King, do you really need to get them to hate you more? Remember to think before you act, Asta!"
Asta, at least, looked guilty. "Sorry, sir! You are right! But I was doing the right thing, in my opinion."
"I know," said Fuegoleon, nodding, knowing that would be Asta's response. Then, Fuegoleon looked at the remaining Black Bulls. "And the rest of you! What were you thinking going along with this stupid plan?! Huh? What were you going to do when you got to the Spade Kingdom? Storm it? Cause an incident that we would have to fix?"
"Sorry, sir," said Magna, being the first salute him and apologize. "But like Asta said, we were doing the right thing according to our ideals!"
Everyone agreed
Fuegoleon sighed. "Your punishments will have to be delayed since I need everyone's help with the coming Summit. But just know that the Magic Knight Exams are in three months, so expect to be helping with that and getting every low-tier missions after this whole mess between the Spade Kingdom and the Heart Kingdom is done."
Magna did not look forward to easy assignments, nor did Luck or Asta or Noelle or Gauche, from the expressions on their faces. Before the Wizard King was able to say anything more, Magna sensed a familiar mana incoming, but there was no way that she was here right?!
Flying overhead on her decked out broom was his mother, coming right for him. Magna was not looking forward to getting an ass-kicking, as she landed on the ground, the ground turning to magma as she walked towards Magna. He didn't run. He knew better than to run when his mom was beyond angry.
"Ma, I can explain…!"
Ma Shula grabbed him by his Black Bulls robe, glaring and scowling. "I don't want to hear ya shitty explanations, kid! You apologize for givin' me a damn heart-attack thinking you were going to a damn warzone!"
She hadn't smack the shit out of him yet, so Magna immediately said, very apologetically, "I'm sorry, Ma, but I just wanted you to know that I was leaving Clover for a bit. I don't mean to worry ya."
His mother's face softened instantly at the apology. She sighed. "Ya gonna be the death of me, boy. And just to let you know that I worked it out with your Wizard King that I'd be giving you your punishment when the time's right."
His mother's punishments were the worst. Magna was so screwed. And why was his mother buddies with the Wizard King now? What happened when he was gone?
"Actually, since I just have so much to do," said Fuegoleon, obviously enjoying the thought of the future suffering of the Black Bulls. "Miss Shula and my mother, Lady Solace, will be in charge of your punishments after the issue of the coming war is done."
"Awesome," shouted Luck.
"What? Are you kidding me," snorted Gauche, dismissively.
"Oh, God, I'm gonna die," said Grey, freaking out, by hiding behind Gauche.
"Ma, please don't kill us," said Magna to his mother. Shula grinned. He got a quick hug, before Shula let him go and marched over to Captain Yami. Captain Yami was twice his mother's height, but Magna's captain looked particularly disturbed to see Shula.
"Yami Sukehiro," said Shula, arms crossed, scowling up at Yami. She shouted, "What the fuck were you thinkin' taking my only child to do something goddamn mother-fucking stupid, hah?! You promised me that you'd look after him when ya took him in! Going to start an inter-kingdom incident don't sound so smart, hah?! You wanna do something stupid fine, but you don't take my boy with you when you do it!"
Magna's face felt warm, as his mom went into an overprotective rant, yelling at Captain Yami.
"Come off it, lady," said Captain Yami, glaring at her.
Magna winced as, with two stomps of her foot, his mother's magic melted the ground underneath Captain Yami, causing him to sink to her height.
Shula Swing promptly decked Yami right in the nose.
"Oh man, Ma was wearing her brass knuckles, this is great," said Luck, cheering, getting close to the fighting to cheer both Ma and Captain Yami.
Magna sighed as his mother and Yami began fighting in earnest. "We should stop them," said Magna to Finral, who had been standing next to Magna the entire time. Finral was looking kind of pale.
"I'm not getting in between them."
Magna nodded, "Yeah, you're right. Captain's on his own with my Ma."
Clover Kingdom
Magic Knight Headquarters
The Infirmary
29th Day of the Curse
Afternoon
Vanessa was glad to be somewhere familiar, as Dr. Owen continued his healing on her. Nozel was sleeping after Lady Ruth forced a tonic on him. The old timers that Vanessa and Nozel picked up while in Spade were Locke Mckellan, former Captain of the defunct Blue Falcon squad, and Styles Cahill, former Captain of the defunct Grey Hounds squad, and they were currently being chewed out by Lady Ruth for running off so many years ago and getting caught by the Spade enemy.
"You look pleased, Miss Vanessa," said Dr. Owen, grinning as Lady Ruth raged at her two old friends from back in the day. "Glad to be back?"
"You bet! I also can't wait to go home and get a nice drink," said Vanessa, cheerfully.
"Assholes," snapped Lady Ruth. "I would have helped you idiots but no, you just had to run away!"
"Come off it, Ruthie," said Locke, scoffing. "What's done is done." Styles looked like he wanted to intervene, as Locke and Lady Ruth were really the ones bickering with each other. Old people were so cute in Vanessa's opinion.
"The old bastard got rid of your squads after you both left! And guess who took them all in, even the men! Me," said Lady Ruth, still fuming mad. "Absolute nonsense you two! I thought you were dead."
"Ah ha, sorry, Ruthie," said Styles, hands up in a calming manner. "Everything worked out. It was just lucky that Miss Vanessa and Lord Nozel were getting broken out of the Coliseum when we were ready to come back home."
Lady Ruth grumbled. "Whatever." She went back to checking them out, still mad but quietly.
Then the infirmary door opened and in came Captain Yami, looking like he got his butt kicked more than once.
"Shula is nuts," said Captain Yami, sitting on a bed, nose bleeding and clearly broken.
"Miss Shula is the best," said Vanessa. "How mad was she?"
"Super fucking mad. But not as mad as Prickly Queen. You good, Vanessa?"
"I'm fine, Captain. Of course, Captain Charlotte was mad, dum-dum Captain of mine. You left her behind," said Vanessa, rolling her eyes. "Hope she got you good too. It was stupid to drag everyone there to come and rescue me, you know, especially since the Wizard King sent Zora and Lady Nickole already."
"Ah, don't you start," said Yami, scratching his face. It looked like Charlotte gave him a rash with her magic. "Be grateful."
"Always," said Vanessa. "But it was still stupid."
Dr. Owen sighed and left Vanessa to take care of Captain Yami.
Vanessa sighed. "Oh and Captain?"
"What?"
"Uncle Locke and Uncle Styles are moving into the Black Bulls house. I already invited them," said Vanessa, sweetly. "And they already agreed as they wanted a place to stay outside of the Royal Realm."
Yami opened his mouth to protest but made a strange noise. "First it was Asta and Secre with the dragon, then it was Finral kidnapping a willing Lady Finesse and now it's you bringing some old geezers that you picked up while you were a prisoners. We just adopt everyone now, huh?"
"Who's old, you brat?!"
Vanessa giggled. She was really glad to be home.
"Thanks, Captain."
Clover Kingdom
Magic Knight Headquarters
Kitchens
29th Day of the Curse
Evening
Charlotte was having a cup of tea in the kitchens of the Magic Knight Headquarters. She knew she had went overboard when Yami and the Black Bulls returned from their self-imposed mission (and thank God, everything worked out). Charlotte was just so mad at Yami for doing something so stupid and something that would get him and his squad in irrevocable trouble.
"If I enter, you're not going to attack me again," asked Yami, from the doorway of the kitchen.
"I won't," replied Charlotte. Yami took it as permission and entered the kitchen. He sat in a seat across from her and just looked at her. It was rather unnerving. "What?"
"What's your problem?"
"My problem," Charlotte asked confused.
Yami sighed. "You had to have known that I was going to go and try to get to Vanessa and Nozel, right?"
Charlotte glared at him and snapped. "Of course, I knew that!"
"Then, why are you so mad at me?"
Why was she so mad at him? Charlotte clamped her mouth shut and pursed her lips into a thin line. She knew why, but was she okay to admit it out loud? She whispered, "You left me behind."
Yami was silent for a moment, before replying. "I didn't ask you to come with me this time because you're a noble woman and you got a family here—your parents, the old hag, and your sister. I know you would have come with me. Nozel and Vanessa are your friends too."
Charlotte looked at him, his handsome bored face not betraying any of his actual feelings. "That's strangely considerate of you. But you don't have to do things like that for me. I can handle myself."
"I know," he replied. Yami smirked. "Next time I'll just ask you to come and get in trouble with me then."
Charlotte snorted. "Don't make this a regular thing."
"It's always a regular thing with me and the Black Bulls."
"Buffoon."
"Hey, you're the one that agreed to date this buffoon, joke's on you," retorted Yami, still smirking.
Charlotte laughed, good-naturedly. "God, you're an idiot, why do I love you?" Then, she froze realizing that she actually never told him that she was in love with him all this time.
"I dunno why you love me," replied Yami, easily. "But I'm glad you do, otherwise this whole dating thing was going to be awkward. Because I love ya, you stubborn, prickly woman."
Her face turned red and she sputtered at the ease at which he said his feelings, after her own years of hiding her own feelings. Charlotte groaned. "You make everything so simple, huh?"
"Yeah, don't overthink it too much."
"Idiot."
"Your idiot."
Clover Kingdom
Black Bulls Hideout, back in its original spot
30th Day of the Curse
Morning, After Breakfast
Finesse trailed behind the other new members of the Black Bulls as Henry walked enough feet ahead of them as he gave them a tour. Finesse was glad that the Black Bulls returned unharmed and that Finral immediately came to pick her up so she was able to move in officially. She had already met Ember, but the two older men were a surprise.
"And…this…is…where…we…keep…Captain…Yami's….pets…now," said Henry. Finesse made a mental note to not enter that room as Finral already warned her about his Captain's large, magical beast-pets. "I…try…not…to…change…things…around…anymore…so…none…of…you…will…get…lost…mostly."
Finesse giggled. "You are doing such a good job, Henry. Thanks for taking us around the base."
The gray-haired, blue eyed Locke, the former Captain of the defunct Blue Falcons, said, "Your powers are pretty neat, Henry. You definitely have to show me some spells."
"Magic nerd," snorted Styles, the salt-and-pepper and brown-eyed former Captain of the defunct Grey Hounds.
"Takes one to know one," replied Locke. "What do you think, Ember? Henry's powers are pretty awesome, right?"
Ember grumbled (at least that was the way that Finesse always heard Ember talk, in a low, grumbling voice), "Quite. Humans have come a long way. It used to only be the royals that had strong magic."
"Thank…you…everyone…for…the…compliments…."
Finesse was really going to enjoy living here. It was quite lively!
Clover Kingdom
Capital
Vermillion Homestead
30th Day of the Curse
Morning, After Breakfast
Mereoleona was sitting on the back patio of the Vermillion Homestead watching the girls make flower crowns. It was not an activity that Mereoleona knew, but she knew that it was her mother and her new friend Shula taught the three girls arts and crafts. After breakfast, the girls liked to be outside immediately.
The girls were getting healthier every day with consistent meals, regular baths, and a comfortable place to sleep. It also helped that they had positive interactions with Mereoleona and her family members. Once they were cleared medically, Mereoleona would get Vivian to put to together the team to get the seals off the girls, so they can start using their magic.
"There you are," said her father, sitting in one of the chairs. "I have the documents to finalize the adoption, Mereo."
Mereoleona grinned. "That was quick."
"It helped that your Aunt Tarian was back," said Aldebrand. "She's leagues smarter than me."
"No, she's just craftier than you," said Mereoleona, smirking. "I'll have to thank her then."
The father and daughter fell into silence until Aldebrand said, "The girls are having fun. I'm gonna like being a Granddad. Just never thought it would be your kids that I'd be a Granddad for, though, Mereo."
"Yeah, but I don't think Fuego and Sal are gonna have kids, Father. Leo might, if he can get over Asta and find someone who wants kids," said Mereoleona, shrugging. "Once the language lessons take, it'll be easier to communicate with them and tell them what's going on."
"They do know that you are their mom now right," asked her father
"I explained it to Blue very carefully and I think she got it," said Mereoleona, remembering that particularly hard conversation because it took an hour to do. "I just hope she explained it to Hanima and Sabriel."
"Well, I think they get it," said Aldebrand. "I'll leave these with you to sign. Bring them to me after your Captains' meeting."
"Fine. Thanks, Father, but here," said Mereoleona, taking out a pen and signing the papers. "Done."
"Alright then," said Aldebrand. "It's official. Congratulations, Momma Mereo."
Clover Kingdom
Coral Peacocks Headquarters
Kirsch's Room
30th Day of the Curse
Morning
"Mother, cough good morning. Are cough you cough alright," asked Kirsch, when his mother stepped into his room. It was strange to have her there in his room at Coral Peacocks, but he was glad to see that she was unharmed from her mission into the Spade Kingdom.
His mother replied, "Morning, Kirsch. I'm fine. More importantly, how are you holding up?" She came over and sat in the chair where all Kirsch's visitors parked themselves when they came to see him. Her eyes scanned the area, noting the bins of red carnation flower petals.
"Fine cough cough," lied Kirsch.
"Right," said Nickole, crossing her arms and giving him a stern look. "Kirsch, talk to me."
"There's cough nothing to cough say, Mother," said Kirsch, sighing with frustration. "I already talked to cough cough Captain Dorothy. I know cough who I love and I know that it's cough unrequited, but I haven't quite accepted it yet cough cough. And it wouldn't have cough mattered anyway."
Nickole made a face and told him, "If you're worried about the betrothal to Young Lady Esmond, I can get you out of it. I just want you to be happy, Kirsch."
Kirsch snapped, "It still cough cough won't matter. cough cough You don't cough get it!"
"Then, explain it to me. I just want to help you," said Nickole, softly. Kirsch didn't respond and he knew it was childish of him to remain quiet when his mother was actually trying to be helpful and support him. "I know that I wasn't always around, Kirsch, but I do love you so very much. It's okay to rely on me."
Kirsch frowned. "It wasn't your cough cough fault that you cough cough weren't around, Mother."
"But it was," said Nickole, apologetically. "I was the one that messed up after my sister died. I didn't think clearly and I wasn't the one that paid the price. Mimosa, Nozel, Noelle, Nebra and Solid and you all did. I wasn't there for any of you the way I should have been because of my past actions."
"I haven't cough cough been angry with you about not being around for years. I forgave you," explained Kirsch. "So did cough Mimosa. And I know that Nozel cough adores cough you and that the other cough three won't blame you either."
Sighing, his mother said, "Still…"
"Mother, honestly, cough cough if I ever lost Mimosa, I wouldn't cough cough cough be able to function anymore," said Kirsch, understanding his mother's past actions. He learned about what happened when he was younger, after Aunt Acier died, through the backlog transcripts at the Magic Parliament. Of course, there were also the snide comments from the others royals and nobles, who looked at Kirsch and Mimosa as if they were motherless.
"You do love Mimosa more than anyone," said his mother, giving him one of her small smiles. She took one of his hands in hers, gently squeezing it.
"Yes," agreed Kirsch, without coughing for once. And he knew that she would never judge him. "Mother, cough cough cough I'm in love with Zora."
His mother Nickole smiled and said, "Well, he's a good man and an honorable Magic Knight, so I can see why."
Kirsch stared at his mother dumbfounded. "Uh, what?"
"What? I'm not like the old assholes in the royal and noble houses that can't understand that you can't help you fall in love with, or for that matter, who you can't fall in love with," said Nickole, hugging him. "Explain it to me."
"Explain cough cough what?"
"I know that you are like me in being focused on work and your family more than anything," said Nickole, running her fingers through Kirsch's messy hair like he was a little kid again. "You do know that your father and I are not in love with each other, right? I mean, he's my friend and I care about him, but I don't have those kind of feelings for anyone. I love my family and my friends, but I've never been in love and I am okay with that. Is it sort of like that?"
Kirsch understood what she was trying to say. He, of course, knew that his parents weren't like Aunt Solace and Uncle Aldebrand. His father had girlfriends, but it wasn't like his mother cared. Anytime his parents were in the same room with each other, it was always friendly and warm, but more like, they were just two friends who decided to have a couple of kids together.
Mumbling to his mother, while safe in her arms, he said, "Um, yeah cough cough I guess? I never had cough cough feelings for someone before cough cough because I wasn't interested. cough I'm definitely not interested in women and most men cough cough annoy me. So I guess it's only Zora?"
His mother let go of him and smiled. "And that's because you got to know him and you have a bond together, right?"
Kirsch nodded, the red carnations spilling out of his mouth. She nodded and grabbed one of the bins and helped him clean up the petals.
"I take it that you're going to tell Zora how you feel?"
"Yeah, just so cough cough that I can know for sure cough and cough get rid of this cough curse."
Nickole nodded. "Go easy on him, though, Kirsch. He's not used to be people caring about him. His father was all he had until Zara was killed."
"You knew Zora's dad?"
"Not well," Nickole said, admittedly. "I met him a couple of times. I thought it was about time that we got a non-royal, non-noble person in the Magic Knight squads. He broke the barrier for those like him and for 16 years, we have gotten some amazing Magic Knights because of him not giving up his dream when everyone told him he couldn't. His inability to give up and his love for his son were all I knew about him. He was very proud of Zora. Just like I am of you."
"Mother," said Kirsch, face flushing. "You're cough cough being embarrassing."
His mother smiled.
Clover Kingdom
Magic Knight Headquarters
Captains' Meeting Room
30th Day of the Curse
Mid-Morning
"Are you serious?!"
"Asta, calm down," shouted several of the other Captains.
"What do you mean that the Summit teams aren't allowed to have commoners on it," demanded Asta. "How is that fair? I'm the Royal Knights Captain and I can't go because I'm not a royal or a noble?! And leaving out witches ain't right either?!"
Fuegoleon sighed. "Unfortunately, the Summit laws had not been updated in 25 years and we need to stop the war between Heart and Spade before they finished gathering their forces for a land battle. So yes, you will be staying this time around, Asta, and keep things here safe."
Asta grumbled. "Fine, I guess. The Clover King doesn't like me anyway."
"We lucked out, we don't have to sit at a stuffy meeting," laughed Yami.
"Speak for yourself," said Jack, completely put out that he wasn't going to be going either.
"Alright, alright. So Team A is the Protective Detail team to go into the meeting with the Clover King," said Fuegoleon, attempting to get order back into this meeting. "We all agree that Mereoleona will lead Team A as Captain, right?"
"Right," chorused everyone.
"So, how many people will I get for Team A," said Mereoleona, smirking.
"Two others," said Fuegoleon.
"That's not a lot," commented Dorothy. "I guess they don't want to overcrowd the place with powerful wizards."
"Correct," said Fuegoleon. "I'll be there in my capacity as Wizard King, however. Mereo, who do you think you want on your team?"
"Well," said Mereoleona, "I suspect that you're going to put Char on Team B as Captain and Sal on Team C as Captain, so they are out. Yami, let me borrow Noelle then! And Rill, you're with me too."
"Yeah, you can borrow Noelle," said Yami. "Hear that Asta! Noelle's going on the super cool missions and you're not!"
"Captain Yami, that's mean!"
Fuegoleon sighed. These planning meetings were going to take forever at this rate.
Clover Kingdom
Black Bulls Hideout
Common Area (Living Room, Kitchen)
30th Day of the Curse
Mid-Morning
Magna was going to die of embarrassment. His mom was temporarily staying with them until she was ready to go home. Right now, she was making Magna suffer as she took over the Black Bulls' base. She was in the kitchen, cooking up a bunch of her specialty dishes as Charmy hovered around trying to get tastes. Finesse was taking notes about how to cook, as she was trying to become helpful around the base since she was not a Magic Knight. It didn't help that his Ma decided to basically treat his teammates as though she was their mom.
He knew that his mother was especially fond of Luck too, so Luck was trying to get hugs and/or get Magna's mother to fight him.
"Your mom is the best," said Vanessa. She finally got the drink she wanted after being cleared from the infirmary yesterday, despite Magna and everyone telling her that she shouldn't be drinking in the morning. "I love her food! It's super spicy and delicious!" She was sprawled on her couch like normal.
With Yami and Asta out at Captains' meetings, Zora barricaded in his room with threats of stink bug bombs if he was not left alone, Noelle out training with Ember, and the two old-timers out visiting Lady Ruth, and few others sent out on missions, it was only Magna, Vanessa, Charmy, Luck, Henry, Finral, Finesse and Mama Shula.
"She is, but so embarrassing," said Magna.
Vanessa laughed. "I missed you, virgin delinquent."
"Stop calling me that, you slush," said Magna, grumpily. "Glad you're back though, 'Nessa."
"FIGHT ME, MA SHULA!"
"GODDAMNIT, LUCK, I'M NOT GONNA FIGHT YA!"
Magna and Vanessa just burst out laughing. It was always good to come home.
Heart Kingdom
The Red Palace
The Queen of Hearts' Office
30th Day of the Curse
Mid-Morning
Uncle Julius was weird.
Jules thought that he was a pretty reasonable sort of person, but Uncle Julius, having the body of a sixteen year old but the mind of a 45-year-old man, and his precious and amazing mom interacting and being "best friends forever" was kind of weird, especially since they were scarily on the same wavelength as magic nerds.
In theory, he liked his Uncle Julius, who was also his unofficial godfather. Mom always told him that if there were any problems in Heart that Jules would find safety in Clover because of Uncle Julius (and maybe because Jules was actually the nephew of the Clover King because of Jules' useless father).
But then, Uncle Julius "died" and broke his mother's heart. Jules had been thirteen years old himself when he understood why his mother thought so highly of Julius Novachrono. Then all of this happened with the curse and of course, Jules was immediately suspicious of "Edward Kairos," the supposed son of Julius Novachrono, who looked exactly like him in his youth and spoke like an old man.
His mom was the only one in this horrible family that he loved and he had to protect her, even if she didn't think she needed it.
"Honey, you're glaring at Julius again," said his mom, grinning.
"Stop being mean to me, Jules," said Uncle Julius, grinning.
"You both are so weird," said Jules, shaking his head. "You do know that I have to go to the Summit. Stop trying to argue against it, Mom."
"I don't like it," said his mom, mouth set in a stubborn frown.
"Each of the reigning monarchs have to bring their heir," said Uncle Julius, nodding. "Bloop will bring his son; the Diamond King will bring his daughter, and the Spade King will bring his daughter. We need to figure out the three people that will go into the meeting with you two."
"You, of course," said his mom.
"He's not a Heart Kingdom wizard," said Jules, shooting down the idea. "They'll count him as a Clover one and that'll screw things up automatically."
"Jules is right. I'll meet up with the two teams that I know Fuego will be putting together to escort them while you all are in the meeting," said Julius. "We need the escort team and the summit team."
"The escort team is easy. We'll use the squad that Jules is in, but as for the people coming in with us," said his mom, "I don't know who to bring."
"Call up Captain Stowe. And Cousin Marilla from her mission," said Jules. "They are the only ones that you would trust to go into this meeting with us."
"But that's only two," said Uncle Julius.
"Those two would be all we need," said Jules' mom. "Lucky that Marilla got a message to me through Vanessa Enoteca. And Captain Stowe will be pissed that I'm calling her out of retirement, but she'll do it."
"Great, now, let's figure out the travel times," said Uncle Julius, far too cheerful.
Jules shook his head. "I'm out. I've got training." There was only so much of this weirdness he could take before he started to get angry again.
Clover Kingdom
Capital
The Markets
30th Day of the Curse
Noon
"Let's eat here, Dotty," said William, leading Dorothy into a quiet bistro nearby the entrance of the Magic Knight Headquarters. He noticed that Dorothy had become quite lethargic lately. William knew that meant that Dorothy was nearing the end of her time awake and would be going back to sleep soon. In fact, this was the longest time William ever known Dorothy to stay awake.
And William knew the reason why she was forcing herself to stay awake.
"Okay," said Dorothy, finding the nearest seat and plopping down. "Ugh, why is Kirsch so stubborn?"
"Let's get some food into and we can talk about our stubborn juniors," said William. He went over to the counter and ordered Dorothy's favorite lunch meal and his own. He went back to the table as Dorothy grumbled into her hands, hat skewed on her head. "Tea's coming, Dotty. Now, I thought you said that Kirsch accepted his feelings."
"Yeah, but its Kirsch. He needs to hear it from Zora before he'll accept it," said Dorothy, sighing heavily. "I might not be able to hold out much longer. That'll just dump more work on poor Levi." The waitress came over with their pot of tea, cups, and sweeteners. "Kirsch can't even manage paperwork without stressing himself."
"Yuno's just as bad," said William. "Except, I'm really worried that he'll die before he or Asta do anything about it."
Dorothy sighed again, pouring herself some tea. "If I can't hold out, will you look after my squad? I'll be able to do it in their dreams, but that's not the same."
"Of course, you can count on me, Dorothy."
"You're the best, William."
Clover Kingdom
Capital
The Markets
30th Day of the Curse
Noon
Asta knew he needed to stop by and see Yuno, but he wasn't quite ready to talk to him yet again. Stupid Magna, Finral and Secre from putting thoughts in his head, Asta's mind grumbled. So instead of running off to visit Yuno at the Golden Dawn headquarters during his break between Captains' meetings, he went into the city to get some food. He liked the food stands, especially the tatoes cooked in a hundred different ways that made them super tasty.
He walked around the city, while eating some food, having too much energy to sit down and eat like a normal person. The big city was still pretty amazing to Asta. He really liked walking around the streets and seeing all the different people going about their day.
"Asta!"
Asta turned around to find himself face-to-face with Leo and clearly another of his Vermillion relatives that he had not met yet. Grinning, Asta greeted his friend who had hadn't seen in weeks. "Hey, Leo! You look much better!"
"Thanks," said Leo, flushing a bit. "Oh, this is my second cousin, Astride Vermillion, Magic Navy Captain. Astride, this is Asta. He's a Grand Magic Knight, in the Black Bulls squad and runs the Royal Knights when they are called."
Astride was a very tall woman and definitely looked fearsome. "Nice to meet ya, man. My cousins all talk about you a lot!" She enthusiastically shook his head.
"Ah, thanks! So, you're in the Navy? That's sounds awesome," said Asta, easily interested. He knew about the Magic Knights Navy but he never met anyone from it.
"It is," said Astride. "But home is nice especially with new little cousins to play with!"
"Oh right, Captain Mereoleona said the adoption was finalized," said Asta, grinning. Captain Mereoleona being a mom is wild, but totally fitting how she got kids. "Isn't great that you're an uncle now, Leo?"
"Ah ha, yeah," said Leo, laughing. "But the girls don't like me much yet."
"Lies," replied Astride, lightly punching Leo in the shoulder. "The girls love him, already, he just can't understand them yet."
Asta grinned. "Kids are great! I can wait until I meet them. And the easiest way to get kids to like you is to play with them and give them treats. Have they been eating well?"
"You bet. They look a lot healthier now, thank God," said Leo. "How's the Captains meeting going?"
"Glad to hear the girls are coming along. Lots of arguing in the meetings," said Asta. "I just hope this plan of Mr. Julius will work."
"Ah, I'm sure it will. I get babysitting duty and running the Crimson Lions while Mereo and Fuego are away," said Leo.
"Nice. I might have to help out the Coral Peacocks again since Kirsch doesn't seem to be getting better and Captain Dorothy looks ready to drop back to sleep," said Asta. "Well, I'm sure you guys are busy catching up. And I have to finish preparing for tonight's meeting. Glad everything is good, Leo."
"Thanks, Asta," said Leo, grinning. "Come on, Astride, we're late meeting with Fragil. See you around, Asta!"
"Alright, later, Leo!"
As the two Vermillion rounded the corner off to their destination, Asta was glad that it was not as awkward as he thought it would since Leo's confession. He was glad that he'll slowly get his friend back. Maybe after this mess was over, they could go training together…
Clover Kingdom
Silva Homestead
Grandmother Silva's Office
30th Day of the Curse
Afternoon
Nozel was not looking forward to speaking with his Grandmother. A lot of things happened since the disastrous family dinner and Nozel barely had time to get to the Silva Homestead after the Captains' meeting (and he had to go back to the headquarters for a follow-up meeting since they still had to figure out things for the coming Summit). He honestly did not have time to deal with his grandmother.
"You seem like you're fine," said Grandmother Silva, as Nozel entered the office. "What took you so long? I'm a busy woman."
"Grandmother," said Nozel, stonily. "I am also very busy, so let's get this done. What do you want?"
"You rude brat," said Grandmother Silva, arms crossed and glaring at him. "You're more and more like your mother every day. Now, first let's talk about you walking out of family dinner weeks ago. And then we'll get into you embarrassing the family by getting captured by the Spade enemy and had to be saved by a peasant and a disgraced noblewoman. You have been quite insubordinate and mouthy lately. I do not like it. And you have not even taken a look at the list of prospective wives. There is only so long you can hold off marriage."
Nozel was not in the mood to be attacked for all his choices. He glared at her and snapped. "Family dinner was a joke. It was just a way for you to bully my siblings and me. I got captured doing my job of protecting the Heart Queen. And Aunt Nickole and Zora Ideale rescuing me is not something embarrassing. And I don't know how many times I have to tell you. My siblings and I will all marry for love."
"Why can't you do what you're told?"
"Because I'm not your puppet, Damnit. The way the Silva have been doing things needs to change," said Nozel. "The world is changing and we have to change with it, otherwise then, what's the point?"
"As long as I'm the head of this House, we shall stick to the traditions of our family."
"Well, maybe you shouldn't be the head anymore. Father is unable to do the job, but I'm 30, a Grand Magic Knight, the Captain of the Silver Eagles and a well-respected wizard," said Nozel, coldly. He knew that this was going to dissolve into a shouting match. Whenever he and his grandmother were alone, this happened. They just couldn't see eye-to-eye.
"Nonsense, you'll drive us to our doom," snapped his Grandmother. "This is all your upstart aunt's fault. She's been putting thoughts in your head, hasn't she? She's been out to get me since your mother died."
"Actually, it's my experiences in the Magic Knights that gave me these thoughts. And do not insult my Aunt or my Mother," replied Nozel. He turned. "I have many more important things to do than to listen to a senile old lady who can't handle change."
He stormed out.
It would bite him in the ass later, but it felt good to do so.
Clover Kingdom
Magic Knights Headquarters
Captains' Meeting Room
30th Day of the Curse
Evening
"Okay, is everyone fine with the teams," asked Fuegoleon. "We have Team A, the protective detail, with Mereoleona, Noelle, and Rill. Team B, the ground travel team, with Charlotte, Mimosa, Alecdora, Klaus and Nickole. Team C, the air travel team, with Sal, Secre, Langris and Bennett. Good?"
"Yes, sir," agreed the captains.
"Great," said Fuegoleon, sighing. "Now, we have to figure out who's going to be in charge of the Magic Knights while I'm gone."
"Well, if you insist, I'll do it," said Yami.
"Hell no," said Jack. "I'll do it."
"As if you two morons can keep the kingdom standing," said Nozel. "I'll do it."
Fuegoleon had a headache from the needling and arguing about teams and travel plans. The timetables were the biggest pain in the world, because they had to keep in mind that they were traveling with the King and his staff, who would slow the Magic Knights down. As Nozel, Yami and Jack got into an argument, Dorothy looked barely able to stay away, while William hovered nearby in case she passed out back into her deep slumber.
"Enough! Let's do this logically," ordered Fuegoleon, but he was ignored. He just sighed. As Mereoleona decided to get in and the fight just for the hell of it, while Charlotte was using her vines to block Dorothy from getting hit.
"Hey, sir, I'm gonna leave, I'm exhausted," said Asta, dodging a thrown-chair courtesy of Jack towards Nozel.
"Yeah, Asta, go and rest," said Fuegoleon, waving Asta off. Asta did figure out the Team C configuration after all. He was younger still and needed rest. "We'll figure it out eventually."
Clover Kingdom
Black Bulls Hideout
Common Area
30th Day of the Curse
Night
Noelle was up reading a mystery novel when Asta and Finral stepped out of a spatial portal. Finral bid goodnight and headed off to bed. Asta went over to Noelle, who was sitting on the couch, and sat next to her.
"Rough meetings?"
"Yeah. You'll be going on a mission soon."
"Oh," said Noelle. It was nice having Asta in the Captains' meetings because he always told her what was going on in them. Asta put his head on her shoulder. "You're lucky that Ember isn't here. He's visiting Mimosa."
"Ugh, so, I saw Leo earlier today with his cousin Astride," said Asta.
"Oh, how'd that go?"
"Better than I thought. I miss him being my friend," said Asta. "But I know I have to give him time."
Noelle hummed. She knew that Leo had been upset that Asta didn't feel the same way. She had been through the same situation, but she told Leo that it'll be better once he moved on from Asta. Noelle wouldn't trade Asta's friendship for anything in the world. It was amazing being his best friend. "So, what's bothering you?"
"Yuno."
"Ah ha," said Noelle, "was that why you are giving Magna and Finral the silent treatment and Secre too?" Of course, it was Yuno. It was always Yuno that got under Asta's skin. Yuno was super special to Asta, even if it hurt Noelle to admit that Asta may have been her best friend and he depended on her and her on him, but Yuno was number one to Asta.
Asta wasn't ready to admit it.
"Maybe," said Asta.
"They are just worried about you," said Noelle. She had noticed what Finral and Magna were trying to do, which was very much like them to try to help Asta. Noelle could just imagine what frank remarks Secre made to Asta too. "Frankly, so am I."
Asta groaned. "Not you too."
"Yes, because you're not honest with yourself for once," said Noelle. "Don't overthink it. Just go for it."
"Go for what?"
"Whatever you want, like you always do," said Noelle, shrugging. She was not the one that was going to spell out the obvious for him. If he and Yuno were to work out, they needed to get their mostly on their own and not be pushed to it by meddling friends. "You are the bravest, kindest, and most stubborn person I know, you never give up, that's your magic. You never think anything is impossible."
"Good pep talk, Noelle."
"Yeah, well, I learned from the best."
Clover Kingdom
Black Bulls Hideout
Common Area
31st Day of the Curse
Morning, Breakfast
Every Black Bull and Mama Shula were at the breakfast table, all enjoying bowls of oatmeal and the fruit that Charmy brought home yesterday. Bleary-eyed, Zora was already on his second bowl of oatmeal, and eating whatever Charmy put in front of him. Still exhausted, he felt like he needed another a few days to rest before he went back off to travel. Well, he actually had to stay put because Captain Yami said that Zora might be needed depending on the outcome of the Captains' meetings.
"Heyyo, morning, Black Bulls," said a cheerful voice, entering the front door (like a normal person, Zora noted and not busting down a wall or the door to get inside). It wasn't as though the Black Bulls locked their door. Only an idiot with a death wish would try to attack them in their base.
"Morning, Levi! You're looking a lot better," greeted Asta, way too loudly for the time of day.
"Captain Asta! Thanks. I'm feeling better. Although I wish Captain Dorothy would let me go back out on missions," said Levi, grinning. Zora remembered him. Levi Roe, a Coral Peacock, and the third-in-command, was a decent Magic Knight, although a bit too bright for Zora's liking. "Oh, Miss Vanessa, glad to see you."
"Thanks, sweetie," said Vanessa, winking at Levi. "What brings ya by?"
"Ah, Vice-Captain asked me to come," said Levi, rolling his eyes. "He wants to talk to Zora."
Zora scowled. "And what does Kirsch need from me? Ain't he supposed to be restin'?"
Levi held up his hands in a placating manner. "You know him. Dramatic and all. He wants to thank you for rescuing Captain Silva and being a good teammate to his Ma on the mission. Please come because if you don't, I'll never hear the end of it."
Zora really didn't want to go, because it was a silly reason to go to the Coral Peacocks Headquarters. Why the hell would Kirsch want to thank him for Zora doing his job?
"Oh, go ahead, Zora. Visit Kirsch," said Noelle, grinning. "It's not like you have anything to do today since you're not allowed to disappear."
"Yeah, Zora," said Asta. "Go and be nice!"
"Shut up, brats," said Zora, rolling his eyes.
"It won't take too long, Zora," said Levi.
Zora sighed. "Fine."
Red Carnations
(Meaning) love, pride, and admiration
Clover Kingdom
Coral Peacocks Headquarters
Kirsch's Room
31st Day of the Curse
Morning
To say that Kirsch was nervous was an understatement. He recruited Levi to be his messenger. Kirsch counted that Levi would figure out a way to convince Zora to come here to see him. Kirsch was sitting in his bed, showered, hair brushed but not styled, he didn't want to seem like he was trying too hard, and in some clean clothes. Captain Dorothy was also on board with this plan as she sent a few of juniors to clean Kirsch's room (not that it was messy but still), any lingering carnation petals were cleared out.
He was ready, but not ready. Kirsch fiddled with the hem of his shirt. Was this a mistake? It was probably a mistake. He was totally about to ruin his comradery with Zora. What if Zora never wanted to talk to him again? What if missions together would be awkward from then on?
The knock on the door jolted him out of his very self-deprecating thoughts and he heard Levi call out.
"Come cough in," replied Kirsch. Levi stayed by the door as Zora, slightly irritated as always, entered the room. Zora was focused on Kirsch, so Kirsch was grateful that Zora didn't see Levi give a thumbs up and then flee the premises.
Then it was just Kirsch and Zora.
"So, barrier-boy told me that you got some personal thanks or whatever to tell me," asked Zora, arms crossed and looking like he would rather be anywhere but here. Then again, the Coral Peacock Headquarters was quite bright, playful and whimsical. Zora was very out of place here.
"Right," said Kirsch, remembering the white lie he and Levi came up with get Zora to visit. "Thank you cough cough for saving my cough cousin! And thank you for protecting cough my mother. cough I worry about her cough when she goes on cough dangerous cough missions."
Zora snorted. "I just went because Vanessa needing saving. It just so happened that Nozel had been there too. And as for your mom, I didn't really do much. She's a competent Magic Knight. Considering that she is you and Mimosa's mother makes a lot of sense."
Kirsch smiled. "How many times cough cough did she try to feed you?"
"Regularly, every several hours," said Zora, smirking. "Well, thanks for the gratitude, I guess. I'm gonna leave. This place hurts my black and withered soul." He turned to leave (flee) and Kirsch couldn't miss this chance.
"Wait, there's cough cough cough something else! cough cough cough"
Zora turned back around and looked expectantly at Kirsch. "Alright, well? Say it before you suffocate yourself to death."
Kirsch knew that there was not an elegant way to say it, so he blurted out before Zora could run away, "I'm in cough love with you! cough cough cough cough cough I love you."
Clover Kingdom
Coral Peacocks Headquarters
Kirsch's Room
31st Day of the Curse
Morning, just as Kirsch confessed
What? WHAT?
Zora stood there and stared at Kirsch.
Did the royal lose too much blood? He must be delirious. The curse was getting to Kirsch. There was no way that Kirsch was in love with him, Zora! There was no way.
"I'm sorry. I misheard ya from all that coughing," said Zora, not willing to believe that a royal, no, that Kirsch Vermillion of all people actually loved him. "I should get ya a doctor. Clearly, you've lost too much blood. You're delirious." Zora needed to get out of that room and far, far away from this situation. He felt the panic rise in him. Zora was not good at feelings and crap.
It was hard enough when the stupid kids (i.e. Mimosa, Asta) looked at him with their big doe eyes thinking that he was so amazing. It was hard enough to deal with the overly affectionate and sisterly natures of Charmy and Vanessa. It hard enough knowing that the Black Bulls cared about Zora and his well-being that they forced him to come back to base to rest regularly.
"Zora," said Kirsch, whose throat must have be destroyed by the vomiting of flowers, sounded far too fond just saying Zora's name. "I love you." Coughs erupted from Kirsch, body shaking from the force, as the red petals came spilling out of his lips.
Zora felt an intense guilt. This guy, no, his Magic Knight comrade, who he had grown to respect over these last three years, had suffered for a month due to his feelings for Zora. Kirsch suffered because he thought he was in love with Zora. Zora breathed in and out a couple of times and knew that he needed to deal with it, even if it was dealing with feelings and emotions. He strode over to the chair and sat down.
Zora steeled himself. "Okay. We're doing this now. Why do you think you're in love with me, Kirsch? No nonsense answer either. Tell me."
Kirsch gave him an offended royal look. "I don't cough cough cough cough think I'm in cough cough love with you, Zora. That's rude to assume you know how I feel. I am in love with you."
Zora grimaced. "You actually mean it, don't you?"
Kirsch nodded, wiping his mouth with a handkerchief. "I do. cough And to answer your question why, I'll just cough say that it was a lot of things that made me love you, but mostly that you are an cough honorable person despite your snarky nature. Though, I like that cough part of you too."
Startled, Zora said, "Wait, you love me for my personality?"
"Yeah, I was cough pretty surprised too," said Kirsch. A wry smile broke out on Kirsch's face. "So, let me down easy, alright, Zora? cough just don't apologize, please. I don't think cough I can take that."
He felt another stab of guilt. Kirsch was far from stupid, so he already knew Zora's answer. Zora replied, slowly, trying to find the right words. "It's been a…very long time since someone actually said those words to me."
"There's a lot of people who cough love you," said Kirsch, coaxing Zora to continue, "but it's not just done, right? Not telling the people you love on a regular basis that you love them. It should cough be like that."
Zora grimaced.
"Thank you for loving me, Kirsch. I just don't feel the same way. But," continued Zora, wincing, "I don't NOT like you, okay?"
Kirsch grinned. "I am very likeable. I've grown on you."
"Like a wart," responded Zora. He was comfortable with banter and friendly teasing. Kirsch knew it.
Kirsch brightly laughed.
Zora chuckled, as he stood up. He really needed to get out of there. Almost to the door, clear as day with no cough in his voice, Kirsch said, "Zora? Just because you don't feel the same way and I accept it, it doesn't mean that I'm going to stop loving you."
Oh.
Well, Zora doesn't quite know how to feel about that fact as he fled the confines of the hellscape that was the Coral Peacock Headquarters.
Damnit.
Clover Kingdom
Silver Eagles Headquarters
Captain's Office
31st Day of the Curse
Morning
Noelle stood her oldest brother's office, standing out in her Black Bulls attire, next to her Silver Eagles siblings Nebra and Solid. Nozel was pacing the room. He called them there, but Noelle did not know what was going on or what Nozel wanted to say. She was just glad he was back.
"What's wrong," asked Nebra. "Did something happen?"
"Grandmother," replied Nozel. He stopped his pacing and Noelle's heart dropped to her stomach. What did Grandmother do now? Nozel probably won't tell them. His meetings with Grandmother always put him on edge. "I have decided that I am bypassing Grandmother and Father to become the Head of House Silva by using the law in Magic Parliament. I'm tired of having to bend to the will of those that refuse to change."
Noelle grinned. "Alright! I'll help!"
"Oh, bother," said Nebra, sighing, with a smile on her face. "I guess I'll just have to pick up the slack here in the squad while you and Noelle do that."
"You mean have Vivian do it," said Solid, sniping at their older sister. "Honestly, I don't see this going very well. The Magic Parliament is full of royals, our very extended family may I remind you, and nobles who haven't cared for the change over the last three years especially. And you know the Kira Clover are the worst at change. Damnit especially."
"You mean, Damnatio," replied Noelle.
"No, Damnit is what I meant to say."
"Way to bring the mood down, Solid," said Nebra, rolling her eyes.
"I just said that this is going to go badly," replied Solid, snottily. "I am going to help."
Noelle grinned. "See, Brother Nozel, you don't need to be so nervous. We got your back!"
"Thank you," replied Nozel, grateful for the support. Noelle hugged him—grabbing Nebra and Solid too for a big group hug. Vanessa was right. She just had to hug the broodiness and snarkiness out of them.
"Awww, what a cute family group hug," cooed Vice-Captain Vivian, entering the office with a stack of paperwork. "It's scary how you all look so much alike."
"Viv, really? We were having a moment," snapped Nebra.
Rolling her eyes, Vivian responded, "Right, well, Captain has a meeting to attend and Noelle has a mission to prepare for. And Solid, you're with me because you made one of the juniors cry again. You are going to apologize earnestly this time, mister."
"Ugh."
Clover Kingdom
Magic Knight Headquarters
Captains' Meeting Room
31st Day of the Curse
Mid-Morning
"Thank you very much for the honor, Lord Fuegoleon," said Kaiser. "I'll be sure to do you proud."
Fuegoleon came to the decision that Kaiser, who the most reasonable and reliable of the captains, would temporarily be in charge. It was actually a hard decision to make—he had been going between Kaiser, William and Nozel. However, Nozel had his hands full with his House Silva issues—Nozel told him that he had a big argument again with his Grandmother. In addition, Fuegoleon was certain that if he named William in charge, the Magic Parliament members' collective hearts would give out. Therefore, Kaiser was the only sensible choice.
"Great, thanks, Kaiser," said Fuegoleon. "Now, we also have a problem. The King wants to bring more servants than we anticipated. And we have to leave in 3 days." Everyone in the room groaned annoyed.
"But we just finished everything," cried Rill. "Why does he need more servants?!"
"Yeah, this is an important meeting, not a vacation," sighed Charlotte. "We'll have to add a couple of people to Teams B and C, if this is the case."
"Unfortunately, I don't think we can't afford any more Magic Knights on the teams to leave the Clover Kingdom," said Fuegoleon. "Damnatio Kira Clover will be coming with us."
"WHAT," Mereoleona roared. "He's coming to watch us, is he? I'll fight him."
"Calm down, Mereo."
"No! He's getting involved in Magic Knight Business. He's not a Magic Knight!"
"Captain Mereoleona, calm down. I'm sure it will all work out," said Rill, mistakenly trying calm down the fiercest woman ever. Mereoleona was not having it.
Fuegoleon sighed. "Ah, let's calm down everyone!"
Clover Kingdom
Golden Dawn Headquarters
Yuno's Room
31st Day of the Curse
Afternoon
"Sister Lily, you cough didn't have to come all this way," said Yuno.
Lily frowned and gave him a stern look. "Of course I did! We're all very worried about you, Yuno. Father and the children had to stay to help around town with a new house we're getting built, so they sent me to check on you. You and Asta, I should say. I'm going to see him later." She went over to Yuno, checked his temperature by placing the back of her hand on his forehead. "You need to stay hydrated."
"Sister Lily, are you it's cough sure it's alright cough that you traveled all this way," asked Yuno. "The travel bans cough cough cough haven't affected anything?"
"I'm a Sister of the Church and we are exempt from the travel bans," said Lily, frowning. It was honestly why she couldn't bring the kids with her to visit Yuno and Asta. "Just as the Magic Knights. However, nothing would have kept me from you boys."
Yuno gave her one of his small smiles. "You're cough cough the best."
"Now, when are you going to tell Asta how you feel?"
"Sister Lily! cough cough cough cough What?"
Lily raised an eyebrow. "I like how you thought I didn't notice. Did I not raise the both of you? So, why are you hesitating?"
"I'm not. He hasn't cough cough been by to see me in a few days. cough Things are cough hectic," replied Yuno, coughing up a heavy amount of flowers that were looking more and more like whole ones.
Lily hummed as she poured him some water from the pitcher that whomever was looking after Yuno left earlier. "And if you asked for him to come over, he would instantly. Asta worries over you. He always did. Why when you were very little and got sick often, Asta always stayed by your bedside trying to help me take care of you."
Yuno flushed red in embarrassment.
"I know that whatever happens that you two will be okay. You'll be forever important to each other in many ways," said Lily. She didn't want to outright tell Yuno that Asta loved him just as much, because she knew that Yuno wouldn't believe her. Asta, after all, did spend years professing his love for Lily right in front of Yuno. Of course, Lily knew why Asta did it—to divert himself from his actual feelings for Yuno. "Nothing can change your importance to each other."
Her boys were such messes.
"Thanks, Sister Lily," coughed Yuno.
Clover Kingdom
Black Bulls Hideout
Common Area
31st Day of the Curse
Evening
"Sister! Did you go and visit Yuno," cheered Asta, with his enthusiasm for everything and his big heart happy to see her. Finding the Black Bulls' hideout was easier than she thought (Mimosa kindly gave her directions and Klaus even offered to take her), and she knew from Asta's long letters that the door was never locked.
Asta hugged her. "Hi, Asta. Hello, Black Bulls!"
"HI SISTER LILY," cheered the majority of the room, who were either eating or drinking or arguing or all three.
"Let me borrow Asta for a bit," said Lily.
"Yes, take him. The mopey boy. Maybe you can talk sense into him," said Vanessa.
"Yeah! Talk some sense to him," said Magna. "Our junior needs to man up!"
"Guys, you're the worst," said Asta, annoyed. Lily laughed at the interactions, and took Asta by the arm and led him outside to the quiet night. "Walk around a bit?"
"Of course," said Lily. "So, what were your teammates talking about?"
"Nothing," Asta said too quickly for her liking. "They don't know what they're saying half the time."
Lily sighed and smiled fondly at Asta. "About Yuno and this curse?"
Asta frowned. He looked so upset. "Yeah…I guess."
Lily and Asta walked around the woods around the Black Bulls' hideout, while Lily thought about a way to help Asta. She knew what she needed to do. "Asta, have you admitted it out loud?"
"Admit what out loud, Sister," asked Asta, playing stupid, when she knew for a fact that he wasn't.
Lily stopped and gave Asta stern look. "Really now, Asta. You are the last person to want to lie to yourself."
Asta sighed. "It's not easy. This is Yuno, he's my best friend and my rival and someone I care about a lot. Do you know that Noelle, Mimosa and Leo were all in love with me? Leo's actually still in love with me! I couldn't return any of their feelings, because my heart already belonged to someone else!" He sounded so frustrated at himself. Lily moved to hug him, but he moved too quickly to be captured in a hug. "Yeah, I'm in love with Yuno! But it doesn't matter because he deserves someone better than me."
Lily bopped Asta lightly on the head. "Nonsense. There would be no one better. Don't give up. Look at the others that were affected by the curse. Did all of them get happily ever-after like the storybooks? No. You can romantically love more than one person in your lifetime in different ways. Just as you can love all your friends and family."
Asta made a face. "Have you ever been in love?"
"A long time ago, before you were born, actually," said Lily, ruefully. "And I never regretted it even though it didn't work out. Asta, do what you always do. Fight, don't give up, and be yourself."
Asta laughed. "Thanks, Sister, I don't know what I do without you!"
"Hah, more like I don't know what I would do without you and Yuno!"
Clover Kingdom
Blue Rose Headquarters
Kitchen
32nd Day of the Curse
Crack of Dawn
Nickole always got up bright and early, especially when she was home at the Blue Rose Headquarters. The squad deserved a hearty breakfast when she was in, in her opinion. She had went shopping last night, dragging a couple of the younger girls with her, since it was apparent that no one was a functioning adult here. Nickole lamented that the eating habits of her juniors (which in her mind included Charlotte, despite Charlotte being her Captain) when she heard a noise of someone entered the kitchen from the back door.
"Your son fucked my mind up," said a familiar drawling voice of the young man that she had recently been on a mission in Spade.
"Zora?" Zora Ideale came into the Blue Rose kitchen, looking like he hadn't slept in a couple of days. "What did my son do?" Nickole, of course, knew that Kirsch had confessed and gotten rejected by Zora just yesterday morning. Mimosa and Nickole had visited Kirsch in the afternoon to console him since Levi sent them both a message.
Zora snorted. "Don't play dumb. Kirsch's the kind of guy that would tell his mother and his sister this information. I wouldn't be surprised if Captain Dorothy and Levi Roe both know too."
Nickole laughed. "I guess. So, you didn't return his feelings. That's okay. It happens, so what's wrong? And why are you barging into my kitchen at 4 in the morning looking like you haven't slept?" She took a new mug and filled it with tea and brought it over to Zora, who was sitting at the morning kitchen table.
"I don't know?" Zora sounded very frustrated. Nickole hummed and went back to cooking. This young man needed some food in him. "He's kind of my friend, but I don't know? I feel guilty. It's not like I can force myself to have feelings for him."
"Right," said Nickole, prompting him to continue.
"He suffered because of me."
"No, he suffered because he was a stubborn, workaholic, oblivious to his own feelings young man, who never had a crush before and didn't know how to deal with it," said Nickole. "He's too much like me in that regard. Zora, you don't have to feel bad. Kirsch won't make it awkward. He'll be professional when on missions. I doubt how you treat each other will change, right?"
"I won't. I still got to keep him on his toes," said Zora, grumbling. "And he does his job, so, I guess you're right. We're still kind of friends." Nickole found it cute that Zora wouldn't admit it outright that he and Kirsch were friends. Zora cared, just not in the way that Kirsch would have hoped.
"Besides, it won't matter in the long run," said Nickole, sighing. She knew that she probably shouldn't say it but Zora was bound to find out since Mimosa was quite fond of him, not to mention Kirsch himself, even with his feelings, saw Zora as a friend. "Kirsch will be getting married by the end of the year."
"Uh, excuse me? Like an arranged thing?"
"Yeah, unfortunately," said Nickole, a little annoyed.
"You can stop that shit from reaching Mimosa but not your son?"
"It wasn't my say. Kirsch agreed to it a couple of years back when Mimosa started getting the offers from men. It got the House Vermillion Council sights focused on him and not Mimosa's prospects," said Nickole, frowning. "I am hoping that he'll change his mind, but I don't think he will." Realizing what she said, she hurriedly told Zora, "But that doesn't mean that Kirsch would have changed his mind even if you felt the same, so don't start down that path, alright?"
Zora remained silent as she gave him a plate of food.
"His life isn't really his, is it?"
"Is any of ours really?"
Clover Kingdom
Blue Rose Headquarters
Meeting Room
32nd Day of the Curse
Morning
"Alright, settle down ladies and gentlemen. Lady Nickole and I will be attending to the King's envoy for the coming Inter-Kingdom Summit," said Charlotte, standing in front of the table of her squad of all ranks. "Vice-Captain Lerola will be in charge while I'm gone. As Fuegoleon, our Wizard King, will also be away, you all will report to Captain Kaiser in the meantime. Any questions?"
One of the 20-something young ladies raised her hand. "Will we be going on co-op missions while you're gone?"
"No. Co-op missions are canceled for the time being. Also, Vice-Captain Lerola will distribute missions and no solo missions allowed until the threat of war is over," said Charlotte. "I expect every to do their duty with honor and respect while I'm gone."
"Hey, Captain, how's Captain Yami doing?"
"Oh my God, Wainsley, really? Big Sis doesn't need that right now," scolded Sol.
Charlotte's face flushed. "Ah, really, now, that's nothing to worry yourselves all about! We're fine!"
"I'm so happy for you, Charlotte," said Lady Nickole, grinning. She was sitting in a seat in the corner, arms crossed and dressed in her silver armor. Lady Nickole was a constant figure in Charlotte's life, just as Aunt Ruth, but Lady Nickole was more of a friend who was also a mother figure. "It's cute that you're getting so flustered."
"LADY NICKOLE, STOP TEASING ME."
"Never, little Char."
Clover Kingdom
Coral Peacocks Headquarters
Meeting Room
32nd Day of the Curse
Morning
"Everyone! Let's welcome back our Vice-Captain from the brink of death," cheered Dorothy int the bouncy meeting room. Kirsch was cured of the curse, but he was still weak from being in bed for the last month so he still needed time to recover his strength.
"Stop telling people I almost died, Captain Dorothy," protested Kirsch. She was really glad that he looked lively than ever, despite getting his heart broken.
"Welcome back, Vice-Captain," said Levi. "You can do all the paperwork while you regain your strength."
"Yay! Vice-Captain is back!"
"Thanks everyone," said Kirsch, waving like he was in a parade. Dorothy was glad to see him back in his role of Vice-Captain, even if he still looked tired around the eyes. "Now, let's listen to Captain Dorothy for the news." And with Kirsch back in his spot as Vice-Captain, everyone fell in line and quieted down.
"No one from the Coral Peacocks will be going on the Summit missions as per my request," said Dorothy. "I will be going back to sleep tomorrow night. It was so much fun being awake this time around, but it's time. So, I expect you all to behave for Kirsch and Levi! I'll visit you in your dreams to train you all."
"As Coral Peacocks, we will uphold the standard as Magic Knights for everyone else while our Wizard King helps broker peace between the Spade and the Heart Kingdom," said Kirsch. Dorothy could cry. She did cry.
"You're so reliable, Kirsch," cried Dorothy, latching herself onto her Vice-Captain.
"Captain, get a hold of yourself. You're so embarrassing!"
Clover Kingdom
Azure Deer Headquarters
Meeting Room
32nd Day of the Curse
Morning
"Okay, okay, everyone, let's settle down," said Rill. He called every Azure Deer available for this meeting. "Since myself and Clarity are going on the big mission protect the King, Vice-Captain Mackenzie is in charge! Behave while I'm gone."
"Ugh, Captain," said Fragil. "You and Clarity are the ones that need to behave on this mission. We'll be fine. Mackenzie basically runs the squad anyway."
Rill gasped. "Fragil, don't be mean to me!"
"I'm just telling you the truth, Captain Rill," said Fragil.
Mackenzie just sighed. "Now, now, Fragil, don't be too hard on the Captain. While he and Clarity are gone, we have work to do in the Capital."
"Oooh, what kind of important work," asked one of the junior members, excitedly.
Mackenzie grimaced.
"Babysitting duty of Captain Mereoleona's new daughters."
Clover Kingdom
Black Bulls Hideout
Common Area
32nd Day of the Curse
Morning
"Noelle and Secre will be going on the mission to protect King Bloop," said Yami, picking his ear. "The rest of us got protect the rest of the Kingdom in the meantime. Like always."
"Uh, you know we can't call the King, "Bloop," Captain Yami," said Noelle, wincing. Every royal and noble knew about the current King's childhood nickname Bloop, given to him by his brother (his long deceased older brother, who should have been the King). "How did you find out about that nickname?"
"Oh? I always knew it, but Julius told me not to use it. And Julius is in the Heart Kingdom so," said Yami, "Bloop is an idiot, and he pissed me off the other day by adding more people to the envoy."
"Captain Kaiser already requested that I helped out the Coral Peacocks since Captain Dorothy is going to sleep," shouted Asta.
"Yeah, I'm leaving once the envoy leaves," said Zora.
Yami sighed. "Whatever, you brats. Just don't get into trouble or drag me into it."
Clover Kingdom
Crimson Lions Headquarters
Meeting Room
32nd Day of the Curse
Morning
"Alright, you idiots. I'll be gone again with my brother. Leo and Randall, you'll be in charge while I'm gone. I expect serious training out of you. I already got the Azure Deer picking up babysitting my girls. And so, you'll also be taking turns," explained Mereoleona, with no room for argument.
"Uh, Sis, I don't think you can commandeer two Magic Knight Squads for babysitting," said Leo. "Not that I won't keep an eye on the girls, but Mother and Father should be able to do it."
"And I need them to get used to people, what better way than having them spend time with the Crimson Lions, which will be their squad in a few years and the most passive squad, the Azure Deer," replied Mereoleona. "Just try to disagree."
"No worries, Captain Mereoleona, you can count on us," said Randall, covering Leo's mouth so the youngest brother would stop arguing with her. "Many of us have children of our own, so we'll be okay."
"That's a good squad! Well, I got to prepare, so I don't punch Bloop to the moon."
"SIS, THE NICKNAME, NO!"
Clover Kingdom
Coral Peacocks Headquarters
Dorothy's Room
33rd Day of the Curse
Evening
"Everything ready, Dorothy," asked William.
"Yep," said Dorothy, tiredly. "Kirsch is curse-free! So I can rest easier. I'm sure soon that Yuno will be cured, William." When Dorothy was going back to sleep after being up for a while, she always liked to go back to sleep in her bed and then after 8-10 hours of sleeping in a bed, she would function normally all the while she was sleeping and gathering her mana for her dream magic.
"Everyone will be here when you wake up. Visit me in my dreams," said William.
Dorothy laughed. "Of course! Good night, William." Dorothy laid on her bed and tucked herself under the covers.
Before he even could get out an evening blessing, she was already fast asleep. William smiled, gently fixing the blanket and put her hat on her hat stand. "Sweet dreams, love," he whispered. He gave her one last look before leaving the room where Kirsch, Patri and Levi were waiting outside.
"Captain's sleeping," asked Kirsch.
"Yes," replied William.
"Great. You and Patri can get out of here now, since Captain will visit your dreams," said Kirsch, dismissively. "Levi! We have paperwork to do!"
Levi rolled his eyes and shrugged. "Whatever you say, Vice-Captain."
William and Patri were left alone to find their way out. Patri was giving him a funny look. William frowned. "What?"
"Oh, nothing," said Patri, smirking. "Nothing at all. Shall we go home and figure out how to help Yuno?"
"Why do I think you're laughing at me?"
"Because I am."
"Patri!"
"What? I'm just being honest. Unlike a certain someone about his feelings for another certain someone," said Patri, still smirking. William sighed. He was never going to hear the end of this was he?
"Let's just go home, Patri."
Aster
(Meaning) Symbol of Love
Clover Kingdom
Golden Dawn Headquarters
Yuno's Room
33rd Day of the Curse
Evening
Yuno sighed. Bell was sleeping already, so she was not babbling away as usual. Mimosa left earlier to get ready for her mission. Klaus, Alecdora, and Langris were all going on the mission, too, so they stopped by earlier to see him. It left William and Patri to run the Golden Dawn while Yuno was restlessly in his bed trying to come up with the words to tell Asta his feelings.
His talk with Sister Lily really made him think. All that thinking cause a new change in the flowers, Mimosa told him earlier. Aster flowers were spilling from his mouth. It was honestly the biggest joke.
"Goddamnit," muttered Yuno to himself.
Then, there was a knock on his door.
Not caring who it was at this hour of night, Yuno said gently for his pour throat was constantly on fire from the nearly full flowers spilling out of his lips. "Come in." To his surprise, it was Asta. He hadn't seen Asta since Asta and the Black Bulls ran off to break into the Spade Kingdom (It was eleven days ago and no, Yuno was not counting). Yuno was very glad that Asta hadn't gotten into too much trouble.
"Hey, how're ya feelin'?"
Yuno smirked, mouth tasting like metal from the blood, and his voice messed up from the stems. "Like shit."
Asta grimaced as he came over and sat himself at the end of Yuno's bed. "Your voice sounds really rough, Yuno. Is there anything that the healers can do?"
"No," rasped Yuno. He coughed a full Aster flower up. "The curse is cough speeding up, according to cough Lady Ruth."
Asta nervously gnawed on his bottom lip. "I thought she said ten weeks, it's been four!"
Yuno shrugged. "Curses cough can be tricky."
Scrunching his face in frustration. "I hate that you're so nonchalant about this whole curse and dying thing, Yuno! Why are you so cool and calm even now? Huh? Geez. Ya make a guy worry."
Sighing, Yuno replied. "I'm a mess cough when you're not cough cough cough here."
"Don't put that strong face up in front of me, Yuno! I'm your best friend and rival. We've been through everything together," said Asta, almost yelling. He bounced the bed from his movements, making Yuno a bit nauseous. Asta thankfully noticed and stopped moving around so much. "Damnit, you jerk…!"
Yuno sighed. "If you're here to cough cough cough cough cough scold me more, cough cough Asta, cough I don't want to hear it."
Offended, Asta said, "I'm not actually here to argue with you. I need to talk to you and you're going to listen."
Yuno watched Asta grow quiet for a moment. Why was he so nervous? It was very unlike Asta. Yuno waited for Asta to be ready to talk. Whatever it was, Yuno knew it was important.
"So, uh," started Asta, awkwardly rubbing the back of his head. He breathed deeply before blurting out, "I love you, Yuno."
Yuno stared, eyes wide. What?
"I know that you love someone else and I respect that but…I can't stand it. I really can't! You won't say anything to that person because you fear rejection, so give me a chance. Fall in love with me!"
Yuno coughed.
And coughed.
Phlegm, blood, and flowers came out of his mouth and his body hurt.
And he was extremely confused.
What was happening?
Ch. End
Ahhhhhh!
Yell at me in the comments, just don't be too mad.
So, if you're wondering about the 'Bloop' thing-it's the Clover King's childhood nickname that he hates (that all the royals and the nobles know it but technically are banned from saying).
I REALLLY HOPED YOU LIKED THE CHAPTER.
Let me know your thoughts. I do like hearing from everyone.