SPOILERS AHEAD!
Welp, there was a six month time skip in Black Clover! I can't wait to see where this next arc in the manga goes...especially for Asta!
Anyway, I hope you enjoy the chapter. Please forgive my lack of skill in writing action scenes. I hope I did it okay.
Clover Kingdom
Golden Dawn Headquarters
Outside of Yuno's Room
34th Day of the Curse
Midnight
Asta chewed on his bottom lip to the point that it was painful. He paced back and forth outside of Yuno's room, while Lady Ruth and Lady Solace had been called over to the Golden Dawn headquarters by William. The two healers had been in there with Yuno for a couple of hours and it was gnawing at Asta's heart that this was all his fault.
"It's not your fault," said the calm tone of the former Captain, William Vangeance, arms crossed and leaning against the wall. "Curses are unpredictable, you know this, Asta. Yuno's a strong wizard, he's going to be okay."
He stopped pacing to look at the composed former Captain and Asta sighed. "It is my fault. I said something I shouldn't have and he got upset."
"Doubtful," said William, shaking his head, disagreeing wholeheartedly with Asta's opinion.
Asta sighed again and continued his pacing. William fell silent. Asta appreciated the effort to soothe his worries from the rather soft-spoken man, but Asta felt extremely guilty. If only Asta had just kept his big mouth shut, Yuno's curse would not have gotten worse. But, no, the ONE time Asta thought to be selfish and this is what it got him.
Just then, the door to Yuno's room opened and out stepped Lady Solace. Leo, Captain Mereoleona and Mr. Fuegoleon's mother was a really nice lady and a good healer. "Ah, Captain William, and Asta, you're still here I see."
"How's Yuno," asked Asta, immediately.
Lady Solace set her mouth in a thin line at the question. "He's resting right now. We had to give him a sleeping tonic to do so. No visitors right now, Asta."
Asta nodding, frowning. "Okay, that's fine. I can wait until he's rested."
"Lady Solace," interjected William, gently. "Is there anything more we can do for Yuno?"
Lady Solace tilted her head and made a face. "Lady Ruth and I may have a lead on a cure, but it might be a dangerous one and Yuno may not want it. But until we know more, I won't be able to explain it. In the meantime, Yuno needs to eat some soft foods and drink more water."
"No worries. I'll have the kitchen staff stick to a soft foods diet for Yuno's meals," said William. "Thank you very much for coming. Mimosa is leaving for the mission so she needed all the rest she could before departing."
"Of course, Captain William," said Lady Solace, nodding. "Now, Asta, dear, you need to get some sleep. You look a bit pale."
"Oh, no, I'm fine, Lady Solace," said Asta, waving off the concern. He fully intended to wait outside of Yuno's room until it was okay to talk to him again. There were things he and Yuno really needed to discuss.
"It wasn't a suggestion," said Lady Solace, sternly, reminding Asta very much of Sister Lily when she was scolding him. "Captain William, I assume you have some guest rooms?"
Captain William nodded. "Yes, come, Asta. You can take a nap while Yuno's resting and talk to him later."
Asta had no choice but to follow.
Clover Kingdom
Capital City
Gate to the Royal Palace
34th Day of the Curse
Daybreak
If there was one thing that Mimosa honestly hated, it was early morning departures, especially when she was on bodyguard duty to annoying people. The three Magic Knight Teams were surrounding the carriages where the King, his son, and the King's personal servants were sitting. And they were already complaining from the look on Mereoleona and Fuegoleon's twin faces of not being pleased.
She sighed. At least the trip wouldn't take too long since Langris was using his spatial magic to jump the whole entourage to the Neutral Zone. The trip should take no more than a day.
"Chin up, Mimosa," said her mother, Nickole, who was also on Team B with Mimosa. It was actually the first mission that she was ever going on with her mom, so Mimosa was a little excited to show her mother how much Mimosa improved over the years. "At least we don't have to do much of the interacting with the King. That's Mereoleona and Fuegoleon's job."
"That's a little mean, Mother," said Mimosa, smiling.
Suddenly, her name was being called by Mereoleona. "Mimosa! Get ready to put Langris in your healing pod after we get to the other side of the portal!"
"Yes, Captain Mereoleona," called out Mimosa. She looked over to her fellow Golden Dawn squadmate and Langris looked surly as ever. "I better go over to him, Mother." Nickole nodded and gave her a small smile. Mimosa hurried over to Langris.
"I can't believe they expect me to overexert myself," said Langris, annoyed as soon as she was next to him. "There are a dime a dozen spatial magic users, but no, they expect me to do it all by myself."
"You know that only team members and the Magic Knight Captains know of our departing time for safety," said Mimosa. "And I'll take care of you, don't worry, Langris!"
Langris turned a suspicious shade of red and coughed into his hand. He mumbled a thanks. They stood in an awkward silence when Fuegoleon called Langris to open the portal. Langris' grimoire glowed with his mana and the portal opened.
And so the journey began.
Clover Kingdom
Forsaken Realm
Black Bulls Hideout
34th Day of the Curse
Morning
Zora finally was able to escape the well-meaning idiots who constantly wanted to take care of him. He slung his knapsack over his shoulder as he walked off into the forest surrounding the house. He didn't know what he was going to do, but he sure as hell wasn't going to stick around to think about feelings. Captain Yami knew how to contact him if there was a specific mission for Zora.
"Ah, glad I caught you, Zora Ideale!"
Zora sighed. It was Mariella, the assassin from the Diamond Kingdom that who Asta befriended. As she was bamboozled into being Asta's friend just like Zora, he sympathized with her. But he was not up for being friendly at the moment. "What do you want?"
"I have a letter for you from Sal Vermillion," said Mariella, handing him a letter.
Rolling his eyes, Zora took the letter. He read its contents and cursed Sal Vermillion to the ends of the earth. But at least it was something to do. The Spade Kingdom were assholes anyway. He ripped up the letter and asked, "Okay. So, take me to the streaker and the witch, and let's see what we can do. I can't believe Sal got you lot involved."
"We can hide better in plain sight," said Mariella, stoically. She got her broom, so Zora summoned his from his grimoire. "How is Asta, by the way?"
"He's having a crisis right now," said Zora, scoffing.
"Well, it's Asta. He'll be able to figure it out."
"Asta had better. None of us want to intervene in his personal relationship with his childhood friend," said Zora. It was taking everything in him not to just intervene, let alone everyone else in the Black Bulls. Maybe Zora should have just sat Asta down and told him straight out that Yuno was in love with him and Asta was in love with Yuno, so the two should get together, because they acted like a married couple all the time anyway.
"Ah, so it's about Yuno," said Mariella, knowingly. Mariella shook her head. "Well, let's get going and met up with the rest."
Zora nodded.
Clover Kingdom
Golden Dawn Headquarters
Yuno's Room
34th Day of the Curse
Mid-Morning
After having a restless nap in one of the guest rooms at the Golden Dawn Headquarters, Yuno was finally awake and therefore, Asta was able to go and see him. Asta rarely got nervous, but right now, he regret eating the breakfast sent to him. His stomach was churning with nerves. Asta ran his hand through his hair, realizing that it was always a poofy, spiky mess, just entered Yuno's room, since the door was open.
Yuno was sitting up on his bed. Bell was scolding Yuno for scaring her and complaining very loudly in Yuno's ears. And true to Yuno's character, he was stoically staring off into the distance, ignoring every word that Bell yelled.
"Hey. How're ya feelin'," said Asta, gently and nervously.
"Fine," said Yuno, simply. His childhood friend began coughing more. Asta hurried over to get the bucket for Yuno. Once Yuno's coughing fit was over, Yuno glared at Asta and steely said, "I don't cough need your pity, cough Asta. I don't cough want you to cough lie to me to cough try to help me. cough cough cough Take it back or get out."
Asta's mouth opened in objection. Yuno was getting straight to the point. But snapped it shut because Asta realized that Yuno didn't believe Asta when Asta told him that he was in love with Yuno. Why didn't Yuno believe him? Yuno was always the first person to believe in him. It was why they had become rivals. Yuno knew that Asta wasn't a liar nor someone to say certain things lightly. It hurt more than Asta could actually process that Yuno didn't think Asta was being sincere in his feelings.
"I won't take it back," snapped Asta. "Because it's true! I love you, Yuno!"
"Stop cough saying it," demanded Yuno.
"No, you stop it. What's wrong with you," yelled Asta. "You think I would just say something I don't mean? Where is the guy that always believed in me, huh?"
"Get out," Yuno said dismissively.
Asta bristled in anger, barely even noticing the agitated flying about that Bell was doing listening to this argument. The poor wind spirit was clearly distressed and Asta would have to apologize later to her. This was the most arguing that Yuno and Asta ever did in their lives side-by-side. Asta didn't like it.
"Fine."
And Asta stormed out of the room.
Clover Kingdom
Crimson Lions Headquarters
Kitchens
34th Day of the Curse
Noon
True to his sister's word, Leopold was stuck on babysitting duty. His mom had to run off to run off to check out Yuno. In addition, his father was off at his office. The girls were dropped off that morning and the rest of the Crimson Lions promptly fled to do "other duties." Leopold didn't really mind because he wanted to be a good uncle. He just would have liked some help. They had a lot of energy.
Hanima and Sabriel were busy now stuffing their faces of food made by whomever was on kitchen duty that day. They were babbling together in between bites their language that Leopold didn't understand (northern Spade maybe?).
"Blue, aren't you hungry," asked Leo, as he worriedly watch Blue pick at her plate of food for the last ten minutes and stare listlessly at a spot on the wall. "Do you feel sick?" He really hoped she wasn't sick.
Blue looked at Leopold and didn't respond.
Leopold winced. Maybe she didn't understand. He sighed. He patted his stomach and then pointed to hers. "Hurt?"
Blue shook her head.
"Okay, so you're not sick," responded Leopold. "Are you sad?"
Thankfully, Blue understood and she slowly nodded. Then, she went back to poking her fork at her food on the plate.
"Why?"
"Mereo," said Blue, listlessly. "Gone."
Leopold wanted to smack himself for being an idiot. Of course, the girls would miss Mereoleona, especially Blue (since Blue was the only one that really was able to communicate with Mereoleona). She hadn't gone on a mission since she brought the girls to the Vermillion Homestead, only going to meetings. Mereoleona spent a lot of time with them over the past few weeks and the adoption was even finalized.
"Oh," said Leopold. "Well, Mereo-sis will be back. She had to go, uh, protect some people. She's strong, you know? Til she comes back, you got me. I'm Mereo's little brother, after all."
Blue titled her head in confusion, seemingly processing his words. "Leo. No leave."
Leopold wanted to cry. The girls had been shuffled about since coming here. Spending time with Leo's parents, Mereo, and Fuego, not to mention, Miss Shula, Lady Ruth and Vice-Captain Vivian to check when they were able to take off the seals so that the girls would get access to their magic. Was it weird to have this intense need to take care of one's nieces? "You wanna stay here until Mereo-sis comes back?"
Blue looked at Leopold and then said some words to Hanima and Sabriel. The three girls looked at Leo throughout their conversation that he was not privy to understand.
"Stay," said Blue, nodding, firmly.
Leopold nodded. "Okay."
Assured, Blue finally began eating along with the other girls.
Clover Kingdom
Black Bulls Hideout
Common Area
34th Day of the Curse
Afternoon
"So, we gonna talk about it," asked Vanessa.
"If our Little Rasta doesn't want to talk, you know he won't," said Magna. He, Vanessa, Charmy, Gordon, Finral, Finesse and Ember were sitting all around the room. Henry was off in the corner in order not to zap their mana, while Magna's mother was in the kitchen. Vanessa was talking about Asta storming home, and running upstairs without say a word.
"He looked so sad," said Finesse, sympathetically. "Do you suppose that he needs some water and food?"
"Charmy will bring him something later," said Finral, patting Finesse's hand. Magna rolled his eyes at Finral. Finral finally having a girlfriend (or were they going to get married?) was weird.
"We can't just leave it. I'm worried that Asta will be his normally considerate self and take Yuno's silence as rejection," said Vanessa, pursing her lips. She looked anxiously at the stairs to the upper level of the house.
"Yeah, but it won't mean anything if we meddle," said Magna. "When people are in love, they can't have others involving themselves in their relationship."
"Communication is key," said Charmy, munching on some cookies. "My parents always said that!"
"If I can interject," said Ma Shula, coming over from the kitchen, as she was sharpening the kitchen knives.
"Please, Ma," said Magna. "Asta's been quite moody lately."
"He and this guy Yuno have been childhood friends, growin' up in the same orphanage, right? Sometimes, when you are so close to someone, if you know someone so well, you are blinded to the truth. Asta can't see that Yuno loves 'im and Yuno can't see that Asta love 'im. You seeing what I'm sayin'?"
"Wait, you are saying that they are too close that they are assuming they know the other the best," Vanessa said, incredulously.
"Pretty much."
"Oh my God, they just need to sit down and talk without arguing," whined Vanessa, taking a swing of her beer.
"Which normally wouldn't be a problem, since they don't really argue. At least, not until Yuno got this stupid curse," said Finral, slightly complaining.
"Because not only is Asta worried, he's hurt that he didn't know a most important thing about his best friend," said Ma Shula, nodding. "Someone does need to talk to Asta, I think and break it to him gently what he's misunderstandin'."
"NOT IT," screamed Vanessa, Finral, Gordon, Charmy and Magna. All of them to no success had tried to talk about feelings with Asta. Magna did not want to have Asta giving him the silent treatment anymore.
"Well, I don't know he'd listen to me since we don't know each other very well," said Finesse.
"And how humans love is very different from how dragons love," said Ember, shaking his head, deadpan. Everyone turned to look at Ma Shula.
Ma Shula sighed, put her hands on her hips.
"I suppose I gotta for everyone's peace of mind."
Clover Kingdom
Vermillion Homestead
Office of Aldebrand Vermillion
34th Day of the Curse
Afternoon
"This could possibly divide House Silva," said Tarian Vermillion.
"Agreed," replied Aldebrand.
Nozel came to both of them with his plan to finally become the proper head of House Silva, effectively shutting down his grandmother's plans. They were sitting in Aldebrand's office, discussing the matter, but both of them seemed less than excited about helping Nozel, but not because there was any love between the Vermillion main family and the Silva main family, despite loose familial relations.
"I don't think that the Magic Parliament would be too pleased with the move either. Your grandmother is a highly influential royal and even so, she would be allowed in the Magic Parliament by way of the noble house she had been born," explained Tarian, probably seeing the disgruntled look on Nozel's face.
"I understand the reservations," said Nozel. "But I will be unable to do it without your guidance."
Aldebrand sighed and looked to the heavens, asking for guidance from Nozel's mother. "And here I thought that Noelle was the one most like you, Acier…Nozel. As much as I want to change everything for the better, you have to proceed with caution. I'm not telling you to cease, but I'm just saying do this endeavor with intelligence and grace."
"And basically in a way that won't piss off the Magic Parliament to the point where you get put on trial," said Tarian, arms crossed. "When Nickole tried to get custody of the four of you, all hell broke loose. We cannot pit the Vermillion and Silva at each other when we are basically holding together the kingdom."
"Prince Con might stop the string of bad luck," said Aldebrand, gently to his sister.
Nozel pinched the bridge of his nose. "I won't implicate any of you. If I mess up I will take the blame, but let's be hypothetical about it, alright? What would you do if you were in my place?"
Aldebrand and Tarian looked at each other and in that moment, Nozel saw the stark similarities in them and the closeness of a brother and sister. He had seen that in Mereoleona and Fuegoleon too.
"Well…"
Neutral Territory
Poppy Estate- Poppy Castle
35th Day of the Curse
Morning
Noelle thought that Poppy Castle was a bit dour to host an inter-kingdom conference, but as she and the three teams, along with the complaining Clover King, the poor staff and young Prince Constantine, stood in front of the mahogany doors, she was glad that this meeting was possible. Poppy Castle was a safe haven for any travelers, but used as a neutral location for the meeting of the monarchs of the Four Great Powers (Spade, Diamond, Clover and Heart) to discuss military, economic and other such high state matters. The castle itself was owned by the Prospekt Family for many generations. There were even rumors that the family were not human, but some sort of magical creature.
Lady Prospekt looked ordinary enough when she exited the front doors to greet them. She had a long flowing robes, ebony hair and red eyes. She was very beautiful, but Noelle noted that there was a great power in Lady Prospekt.
"Welcome, denizens of the Kingdom of Clover. I am Lady Prospekt," she introduced herself. "Before we continue, I shall remind everyone of the rules of the Poppy Estate. There will be no fighting with magic or without magic between the kingdoms' citizens. This is a place of neutrality that must be maintained. Only the Clover King, the Clover King's heir, the Wizard King, and three chosen attendants may be allowed to enter Poppy Castle for the duration of the conference between monarchs. The remaining guests will be required to stay at Poppy Manor for the duration. Same rules apply at the Manor as the Castle. The conference will last until the matter at hand is fully discussed and solved. If there are any objections, please speak now."
No one said anything. Thankfully, Damnatio covered the mouth of the Clover King so things wouldn't start off on a bad foot.
Lady Prospekt nodded, "Very well. You are the first to arrive. My son, Young Master Prospekt, will lead the excess attendants to the Poppy Manor." A young boy appeared out of nowhere, looking like a smaller version of his mother, but much more cheerful.
"This way! This way!"
The boy was already taking off, causing Charlotte, Sal and the rest to chase after him. It left Noelle, Mereoleona, and Rill, along with Fuegoleon, and the two Royals.
"Please enter. We'll let you get settled while we wait for the other kingdom's entourages to arrive," said Lady Prospekt.
Noelle steeled herself as the group of six entered the eerie Poppy Castle, following after the mysterious proprietor inside. She kind of wished Asta were here. He would have already made friends with Lady Prospekt and probably gotten in trouble.
"Steady, Noelle," said Mereoleona, shooting her a grin. "We got this."
Noelle nodded. She knew they would be fine. Noelle knew the plan. She was in charge of Prince Constantine (or Prince Con as he was called), while Mereoleona kept an eye on any changes in the other people, while Rill was to protect the Clover King. She walked over to Prince Con, who was nearly fifteen years old and looking rather nervous to be there. He was the older of the twin children of the Clover King and therefore, the heir. Prince Con, however, was the smaller and the more passive. Noelle just liked to think he was the nicer twin. Prince Con's twin sister made Solid on his worst days look like a saint.
She took his hand in hers. "Don't worry, Prince Con. I'm here."
The young Prince Con just squeezed her hand tightly.
Clover Kingdom
Coral Peacocks Headquarters
Vice-Captain's Office
35th Day of the Curse
Mid-Morning
Kirsch felt better than ever. Things were back to normal, well, as normal as it could be considering that the Captain just went back into hibernation mode for the foreseeable future and that Zora knew about Kirsch's feelings. At least, his office was in order. "Good job keeping Asta from ruining my system, Levi."
"It wasn't hard. Asta's actually not as stupid as you think, it just takes him a minute," replied Levi. "So, what's the plan today, Vice-Captain?"
"Training, of course," said Kirsch. "I know you all have been slacking while I was out of commission."
Levi rolled his eyes. "Well, no shit. Team duo and trio training?"
"Of course," said Kirsch.
The knock at the door interrupted them. "It's me!"
"Come in, Asta," said Kirsch, hefting a big sigh. Asta entered the room and both Kirsch and Levi physically winced at Asta's deep circles under his eyes. "Are…you ok? You looked like you didn't sleep."
"Yeah, man, you look rough," said Levi, concerned.
Asta shook his head. "No, I'm fine. It's fine. Captain Kaiser sent me over to help."
Kirsch and Levi traded worried looks, before Kirsch said, "Very well. You know where the training area is, correct? Go there and warm-up the people there. Levi and I have a few things to finish before we head over, alright?"
Asta nodded and left the room without complaint or arguing or his usual gusto.
"Holy shit," sighed Levi. "He looks like crap."
Kirsch shook his head. "No. He looks like he got his heart broken. Is it strange that I feel the sudden urge to deck Yuno?"
"Same. Should we do something?"
"There's nothing we can do. Yuno's being a stubborn asshole for some reason and Asta is oblivious to what's right in front of his face," said Kirsch. "Anyone can tell when they are together how much they love each other. Fools in love."
"Says the man who didn't know he was in love with Zora."
"Shut up, don't tease me. I'm too beautiful for that," replied Kirsch, jokingly.
"I feel the need to punch you in your face, Vice-Captain, for Lady Mimosa's sake."
"Your words hurt, Levi," fake gasped Kirsch.
"Yeah, right," said Levi, rolling his eyes. "You know, I just realized that Asta is a beast about training, we may need to go rescue our squadmates."
"Oh, nuggets."
Red Roses
(Meaning) Deep Love
Clover Kingdom
Golden Dawn Headquarters
Yuno's Room
35th Day of the Curse
Mid-Morning
"You're an idiot. A moron. A stubborn, beautiful moron, but still! Why are you so blind?!" Bell had been screeching insults at him since he woke up that morning, attempting to eat some farina, while she bellowed in his ears. Bell had been furious with him since Asta's attempt at a confession to trick the curse out of him.
Yuno replied, "Please cough shut up, Bell."
Bell's face turned red. "Thick-headed numskull! You and that magic-less idiot deserve each other. Of course, Asta is in love with you! He is! I know it, everyone knows it but you. You can't see it!"
Yuno scowled at her. "Stop trying cough to make me cough feel better cough cough cough cough"
She snapped. "Why are you so afraid of getting what you want?! Asta won't say something like that, unless he meant it in his whole being. He's not a liar. You know this, Yuno!"
Yuno had no response for his wind spirit, as he tried to take a bite (a sip?) of farina so he wouldn't die of starvation on top of having his lungs and throat destroyed by a curse. Bell made an unholy sound of rage, before activating her own wind magic and rushing out of the room.
Ah, finally, Yuno thought to himself, some peace and quiet while he finished his breakfast. He will worry about things with Asta later.
Neutral Territory
Poppy Estate- Poppy Castle
35th Day of the Curse
Afternoon
Jules already hated this conference idea as he walked into the waiting room of Poppy Castle with his mom, Cousin Marilla and Captain Stowe. The Clover team was already there. Jules reflexively glared at the Clover King, since the man looked like Jules' useless father.
"Queen Ophelia, it's good to see you back on your feet," greeted the Wizard King, Fuegoleon Vermillion, immediately shaking his mother's hand
"Ah, thank you, Lord Fuegoleon," said his mother. "Young Edward Kairos came with us, but he's heading to the manor with my protective detail."
Fuegoleon nodded. "Of course. Thank you for keeping him safe, while we sorted business."
"Ah, my dear sister-in-law," interrupted the Clover King, "this wait is a killer on my mood. Why couldn't you just not declare war on the Spade Kingdom?"
Jules' mother and the Wizard King both stood up straighter and turned to the Clover King and began speaking to him like he was an idiot (because he was). Jules rolled his eyes as Captain Stowe and Mereoleona Vermillion (everyone knew her from her reputation) sized each other up. Cousin Marilla already found herself a corner to watch things, as she was still very jumpy from her time in the Spade Kingdom fighting pits.
Jules spotted his cousin Con. Con was alright, if not a bit shy. Jules didn't see Theodora anywhere, which was a blessing in disguise. What got Jules was that Con was basically cowering by the prettiest woman he had seen in his sixteen-year-old life. From her robes, he knew that she was a Magic Knight in the Black Bulls squad, but her silver hair and her family crest gave her away as a Silva Family royal.
Jules unconsciously fluffed his hair and went to go introduce himself, when the other Clover Magic Knight came over to bother him before he even moved in the direction of the royal woman.
"Hi! I'm Rill. The Captain of the Azure Deer squad. Wanna be friends?" The childish looking man immediately reminded Jules of Uncle Julius and that annoyed him.
"No."
When was Jules going to be rid of weirdos?
Clover Kingdom
Common Realm
35th Day of the Curse
Evening
"Thanks for coming, Zora," said Fanzell, "We've been tracking several Spade Kingdom agents recently."
Zora nodded, arms crossed. He was willing to hear things out. "Alright, so what's stopping ya from dragging them to the nearest Magic Knight outpost and putting them in jail?"
"Well, we aren't Clover citizens or Magic Knights," said Fanzell. "With Miss Sal busy elsewhere, we needed someone that would be able to officially arrest them." Other than Sal, Asta was the reason why Zora wasn't going off to do this on his own. Asta was trained by this man Fanzell, so Zora was interested to see what he was like as a wizard.
"Right, right," said Zora. "Do you have evidence that they are up to shit?"
Mariella interjected. "Yes. I have followed several of them to their meetings. Clearly they are on orders from the Spade Kingdom military higher-ups to sow discord between Clover's commoner population and the nobility."
"That'd be considered heresy," said Zora. He had gone after enough people in his duty as a Magic Knight to know most of the ins-and-outs of law in practice. The first few times Zora took on a corrupt noble or royal, he didn't have any evidence so, other than the beating they got courtesy of Zora, the assholes were free to go without any other repercussions. Zora learned quickly to game the system put in place to protect said corrupt nobility over the average person to clean up the Magic Knights. It was better when Julius became the Wizard King, because Julius took corruption and failure to do duty seriously. "I need actual proof."
"What would be considered actual proof," asked Mariella, confused. Things were different in Diamond.
"Letters, documents, copies of orders, signed confessions," said Zora. "Even though, it is most likely that they are Spade Kingdom spies, it'll be easier to keep them in prison and not get out on a technicality, let's not to leave anything to chance."
"I'm glad Sal recommended that we get you to help us," said Fanzell, cheerfully. "You sound like you know what you're doing."
"I would fucking hope so," said Zora, scoffing. "Alright, assassin girl, what do you got? I know you're a thorough sort of person from Asta."
Mariella nodded. "I might have the actual proof, as you call it, already back at our hideout. If you think it's enough, we just have to capture them and put magic blockers on them for transport to the nearest jail."
Zora nodded. "Well, lead the way, you two."
Neutral Territory
Poppy Estate- Poppy Manor
36th Day of the Curse
Morning
Julius had met Lady Prospekt and her husband many years ago during his tenure as the Captain of the Grey Deer squad. Despite the apparent creepiness of the Poppy Estate, the Prospekt family were actually just witches and wizards from a long family lineage, who made it their life mission to take care of people who were lost or needed some place to be that was peaceful. Julius knew that there many older witches and wizards who retired here. He was slightly disappointed to be stuck in the Manor and not being able to roam the true extent of the Halls of Poppy Castle.
It was, however, nice to be back with his Clover Magic Knights. He was glad that Fuegoleon thought it best to have Sal, Nickole, Bennett and Charlotte. Julius would had picked them as well, if he was still the Wizard King. The Heart Kingdom squads were nice enough wizards but they were very seriously trained and to them, he was just a kid.
Mimosa and Klaus were fussing over Langris, who over-exerted himself using his spatial magic to get a head start on travel at the start of the mission. Charlotte, Bennett, and Sal were playing cards with several of the Heart Kingdom soldiers, trading their "war stories." Secre was in her bird form, sitting on Mimosa's head. Xerx and Alecdora were in a deep discussion, mostly complaining about their annoying juniors. Clarity was busy in her own little word, sketching in her pad, using a simple pencil (since magic was not to be used). Damnatio was scowling in a chair in the corner, completely ignored by everyone else there.
Julius startled when Lady Prospekt's voice echoed through the Manor.
"The Spade and Diamond Kingdom group have arrived. The excess people of both parties will be arriving shortly at the Manor. Mind the rules, everybody, please and thank you."
It was Bennett Vermillion who spoke up. "I know it may be hard, but no fighting. That goes for everyone. Things are tense enough as it is."
"Agreed," said Charlotte, arms crossed.
Moments later, the son of Lady Prospekt led the small retinues of Diamond and Spade wizards into the Manor. The Heart Kingdom and the Spade Kingdom soldiers glared at each other, while the Diamond Kingdom soldiers quietly found a corner to hide, though a couple of them seem to be looking around the room for someone. (Probably Asta, Julius mused silently to himself). The tension was palpable.
"This is gonna be a long conference," sighed Nickole, who had been taking a short nap, sitting next to him, the entire time. Nickole, along with Acier and Aldebrand, was one of the people that Julius had been able to look towards for guidance, as they were his seniors in both nobility and the Magic Knights.
"No doubt, Lady Nickole," said Julius, looking at the faces of most in the room was either uncomfortable or angry. "No doubt."
Neutral Territory
Poppy Estate- Poppy Castle
36th Day of the Curse
Morning
Jules was going to lose his mind with boredom as they sat in the conference hall. The table in the conference hall was a round one. So the setting arrangements were very awkward. He sat next to his mother. On his mother's other side was the Wizard King Fuegoleon. On Jules' other side was the Diamond Princess. At least, he didn't have to sit next to the Spade Princess or Spade King, which would have been the worst. It was a bit awkward, however, to have the guards of everyone sit up in the balcony in the room.
Lord Prospekt, the husband of Lady Prospekt, was the moderator for the conference so that the items of discussion were actually addressed. He spoke, calmly, "Thank you all for coming in a timely manner. The first order of business today is to review the bylines of the inter-kingdom conference, outline the purpose of this meeting, and for each Kingdom's monarch to give opening remarks."
As the Heart Kingdom's only Prince and the heir, Jules knew that he would have to spend a great deal of time in meetings (he already attended a lot of meetings in place of his mother, which were horrendously boring). He wanted to bang his head against the table. He felt his mother jab him in the arm, but she looked unfazed, mouth in a stern line as she listened attentively to Lord Prospekt. Properly scolded, Jules knew he had to pay attention. It wouldn't be beyond his mother to randomly quiz him later.
Lord Prospekt had not stopped speaking, while Jules was getting lost in his own mind. "When there is a diplomatic matter that cannot be solved between two or more parties such as the one that we face now, a conference can be called by one of the Kingdoms. In order to facilitate peace and avoid the struggles of war, the Poppy Estate is a safe, neutral haven for a conference to take place. My Lady gave you all packets, which are handwritten copies of the original agreement by the Four Great Powers Monarchs. I ask you to look at the top of page 1…"
It was times like these that Jules was reminded that he didn't really want to be a Prince or an heir. What he wouldn't give to not have to suffer meetings, stuffy old men and women who only knew how to argue or tell you about "back in their day," or do endless amounts of paperwork. The only part of being a Prince he liked was being able to help protect and care for his people.
The old moderator (Jules assumed he was old; Jules was only sixteen, after all) continued to go through painstakingly slow each of the 20 pages of the original agreement. Jules held back a groan, as his mother pinched his arm to scold him yet again and make sure that he was paying attention.
One mind-numbing hour later, Lord Prospekt finally got to the main point, "Today, and for the next few days even, we are here to discuss the matter between the Heart and Spade Kingdoms. The two kingdoms already declared war against each in an official capacity. In order to cease an actual clash between armies on a battlefield and avoid unnecessary bloodshed, the purpose of this conference is to figure out a way, diplomatically, settle this particular matter between the Heart and Spade Kingdoms. Now, let us begin with opening remarks from each of the monarchs. We shall start with the Clover Wizard King, in place of the Clover King, as per their request and then move to the Diamond Princess, in place of her father the Diamond King, as per their request. We shall follow her with the Spade King and then, lastly the Heart Queen. Lord Fuegoleon, if you would start please."
Jules straightened in his seat. They were finally getting somewhere, as the Wizard King stood up to address the room. "Thank you very much for the detailed explanations, Lord Prospekt. I shall start by introducing myself for those who may not know me. I am the Wizard King of the Clover Kingdom Magic Knight squads, Fuegoleon Vermillion of the Royal House Vermillion. Our King, Augustus Kira Clover XIII, has instructed me to explain the Clover Kingdom's official stance on the matter between the Heart and Spade Kingdoms."
No one in the room believed that the Clover King wrote anything, of course, as Fuegoleon continued, "The Clover Kingdom believes that war should be a last resort, especially concerning matters that could have been avoided diplomatically. We are here to get the whole story and help figure out a way to stop an impending war."
Jules frowned. He barely knew the whole story himself, though he knew things started when the Spade King's oldest son kidnapped one of his mother's cousins and killed her.
"I shall give the floor to the Diamond Princess."
The twenty-something year old Diamond Princess stood up as Fuegoleon sat down. Jules tried to remember her name, but everyone just called her the Diamond Princess. She was a tall dark haired and eyed woman, who barely looked anything like her greyed elderly father, who looked to be sleeping at this point. From his lessons, he knew that that Diamond Kingdom's heir was not based on birth order, but whatever child was the most powerful.
"I am Klotilde Rex Diamond, the seventh daughter of the Diamond King, the heir to the throne, and the General-Commandant," said Princess Klotilde. "I, too, will read a prepared statement. This is the official stance of the Diamond Kingdom. The Diamond Kingdom understands the severity of the actions taken by the Spade and Heart Kingdoms. Normally, we do not bother with other Kingdom's matters, but a ground war could be severely damaging, not only to life, but also the balance of magic in the world. We are here to help settle the matter without a ground war. Thank you. Your Majesty, the Spade King, I give the floor to you."
Jules felt his mother reach for his hand.
The Spade King, King Othmar Wolfgang Spade, was an impressive man, power exuded from him in droves without even releasing his mana. He was in his sixties, but no doubt would be able to take anyone in the room, except maybe Mereoleona Vermillion. The grey, grizzled and gruff man stood and said, simply, "This is all bullshit. That demon woman killed my son. She and the rest of those nature-loving freaks will get what's coming to them."
Immediately, his mother, who was not impressive in stature, but otherwise a steely queen. Her rage was evident in her tone. "Your monster of a son kidnapped and killed my cousin! My cousin did nothing to anyone ever. Was I supposed to just let it go? My father once let it go that you, yourself Othmar, killed his sister, my aunt! But I will not be threatened by you or your kin!"
Jules saw Cousin Marilla standing in the balcony, just waiting to strike. It was her youngest sister that had been the victim.
Things were devolving fast.
"Enough! This is unbecoming of monarchs of the Four Powers. We can get in the details later," barked Fuegoleon, getting everyone's attention. Jules' mother and the Spade King sat down, both death glaring each other. Lord Prospekt watched with blank eyes, just seeing where things were going to go. "Now. I think we all understand the points of the Heart and Spade Kingdoms. What's next, Lord Prospekt?"
Jules sighed.
Clover Kingdom
Common Realm
36th Day of the Curse
Mid-Morning
"We need an actual plan," said Dominante, the wife-witch of Fanzell. "The last time we went somewhere without an actual plan, things fell apart in the Witches' Forest."
"But between the four of us, we'll be able to get this over with, dearest," said Fanzell.
Zora glared at the married couple. The assassin girl actually had gathered enough evidence that all they needed to go was to capture the Spade Kingdom people living in Clover, but the married couple was arguing about the plan of attack. He almost wished that he had the usual people he worked with because they generally had the same wavelength and the plans were not really plans but loose ideas that tended to work out in their favor.
He really even wouldn't have minded Kirsch there, despite the possible awkwardness.
"Why don't we just stalk them until we catch them off guard? And I'll just need her," said Zora, pointing to Mariella. "You two can stay here with Fana." Zora was wary of the girl Fana, as she had been manipulated into being a member of the Eye of the Midnight Sun, because that had to have some psychological repercussions. He would rather have the Diamond wizard and his wife watching Fana, while he and Mariella got the Spade Kingdom spies. She had been in the kitchen making food the entire time he was in their safe house.
"I, too, agree with Zora," said Mariella, stoically.
Fanzell and Dominante looked at each other. Fanzell responded, "I suppose if you think you can handle it."
Zora glared. "Of course, I can, dumbass. And she's scarily efficient, according to the idiot kid."
"Alright, I suppose that is best."
Clover Kingdom
Forsaken Realm
Black Bulls Hideout
36th Day of the Curse
Nighttime
Asta turned over on his side again, for the umpteenth time. He hadn't sleep well at all in days. He knew he needed to sleep. Everyone noticed that he was off—even Kirsch was worried! He grumbled and sat up in his bed. Yuno won't let him visit anymore. William and Patri and the others at the Golden Dawn had to turn him away, apologizing because they don't want Yuno to get worked up and get worse. Asta understood the reason why, but he and Yuno needed to talk. Next time, he was going listen more and not let his worry make him pushy.
He hated arguing with Yuno. They honestly had never done it much in their lives, petty childhood squabbles and rival banter aside.
"Dang it!"
"Can you stop with the angst pity-party, kid? It's really pathetic and it's gettin' annoying."
Asta looked over to where his grimoire lay and said nothing but rolled his eyes. The grimoire was opened and the anti-magic demon's head was sitting out of its pages. His demonic energy swirled around the room, but Asta knew that he wasn't in danger (well, not any more than he normally was, on a regular basis).
Over the years that Asta had been aware of the anti-magic demon, they had come to an agreement. Asta used the abilities of the anti-magic demon, the demon didn't try to forcefully take over Asta's body anymore (the demon does try sometimes, but it's mostly half-hearted attempts that had nothing on Asta's willpower). Together, they promised to help combat any other demons from breaking into the human world.
The demon who said his name was Nelchael (but Asta knew that it probably wasn't the name of the demon) spoke again, "Kid, I'm gonna tell ya somethin' that you ain't gonna like…"
"You always do," said Asta, rolling his eyes. When wasn't the demon putting terrible thoughts in Asta's head?
The demon scoffed. "Rude. Anyway, I hate to break it to you…but you can fall in love with more than one person at different points in your life. Findin' your one true love is a bunch of bullshit. There's no such thing as a soulmate. No such thing as The One. Relationships are built on mutual trust and understanding. I want you to understand those facts."
"Yeah, no shit, Nel," snapped Asta. He wasn't some loves-truck moron. He knew how relationships worked, how all kind of relationships work. Asta growled and glared at his demon. "What is your damn point?"
"I just wanted to say it because I don't want you to think I'm some sort of a romantic, kid. Because you and that pretty boy's relationship is a strong one. So, don't let your stubbornness and your worryin' nature get your emotions riled. Keep a level head. You know him best. Who do you think he's in love with, huh? It's you, it can only be you, for fuck's sake. He's afraid that because of the curse and his admiration of you, he thinks you're just trying to trick the curse into breaking itself. That you don't mean it because he wants you to mean it. So, prove that you mean it. If your words won't move him out of his stubbornness, your actions will."
Asta scrunched his face.
"Well, I guess I wasn't needed to give ya a pep talk, after all," said Ma Shula, standing at the doorway of Asta's room. Asta knew that someone was going to be sent to talk to him, but he can't believe everyone convinced Ma Shula to come and do it. "Freaky demon is right. Woo your man, Asta. It's the only way."
"Nicely said, crazy lady."
Asta just looked at Ma Shula and then the demon. "How do I do that?"
"That is something only you know, since you know Yuno best. What he likes, he doesn't like, his hobbies, things like that," said Ma Shula. "Gifts are a good place to start."
Neutral Territory
Poppy Estate- Poppy Castle
37th Day of the Curse, 2nd Day of the Summit
Morning
It was official. Jules found the person that he hated most in this world. Princess Eleanor Wolfgang Spade was the worst person in the world. She was a bitter girl. Her snide comments and biting words made her generally unpleasant. Jules would have felt bad that her father was just as mean towards her, clearly wishing that his original heir was still alive, but if she said one more nasty comment to poor Cousin Con, Jules was gonna fight her. The rules be damned.
The first day of the Summit was filled with more filler than a jelly doughnut—if Jules heard that "Tradition must be followed" one more time he was going to scream. He almost wished that Uncle Julius was there, as he was very good as dispelling tension and getting people to get along with each other. Almost.
Today, both the Heart and Spade Kingdoms will be present their case, followed by commentary by the Clover and Diamond Kingdoms. Basically, his mother was going to go first, followed by King Othmar. Princess Klotilde and Wizard King Fuegoleon would comment afterwards. Then the discussions will start on how to resolve it without a large-full scale land war that would be devastated to the average person.
His mother was standing up. She and Uncle Julius spent the trip to the Poppy Estate preparing her argument to sway both Clover and Diamond to her side. It might help convince King Othmar to not start a war. Jules doubted it, however.
"I shall start at the beginning, where I think the Heart and Spade Kingdom's conflict began," started his mother. "My father, God rest his soul, King Octavian Theodore Nova Heart III, had five brothers and sisters. His youngest sister, Princess Margaret Serenity Nova Heart, had traveled often. However, on one of her trips outside of the Heart Kingdom's protective borders, she ran into then-Crown Prince of Spade, Othmar Wolfgang Spade."
Jules saw Othmar's face twist into pure rage, but he had been thoroughly admonished yesterday so he glared, instead of starting an argument. Jules glared at the Spade King.
"We know the details of the encounter from Princess Margaret's guard. Princess Margaret and Othmar immediately clashed. And I mean it. They fought. The Nova Heart family's magic is the strongest in Heart, so Princess Margaret was an amazing wizard. The guard of both royals managed to pull them away from each other, thinking that it was over," said Jules' mother. "But it wasn't. A few weeks later, Princess Margaret was in the neutral territory by the border of the Hear Kingdom. We don't know why but she lost her guard and went off on her own. Two days later, they found her body. Thanks to several of our wizards' specific magic affinities, we soon found out that she had been murdered by Othmar."
Othmar rose from his seat, Princess Eleanor attempting to pull her father back down to his chair. "That's a goddamn lie! I told Octavian I didn't kill Margie!"
"Sit down, King Othmar. You will get your chance to tell your side of the story shortly," reprimanded Lord Prospekt, giving a stern glance at the Spade King. Jules winced.
His mother continued her story, without blowing up in anger herself as she was reprimanded yesterday as well. "My father, being a kind and just man, knew the repercussions of taking action against the Spade Kingdom for the murder of my aunt. He closed the matter. Then we fast forward to five years ago, when my cousin, Wynda Nova Heart, a teenager at the time, had been traveling between the Clover Kingdom and the Heart Kingdom for personal reasons. That's when she also had a run-in with a royal from the Spade Kingdom. This time, it was Othmar's oldest son and his heir at the time, Prince Aric Wolfgang Spade who accosted and tried to force himself on my cousin. Wynda was a soft-hearted girl, but not weak. A fight ensued. Marilla, Wynda's older sister and my other cousin, who is in the balcony at the moment, had arrived in time to see Prince Aric fleeing the scene, where Wynda was bleeding out. It was too late."
Jules had been eleven when he attended Cousin Wynda's funeral, the first of many in his family. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins were dying left and right, the palace filling with political assholes looking to gain power, it irritated Jules to no end.
His mother frowned. "The next part of the story was, in fact, my fault. I take full responsibility for my actions followed the murder of my cousin. I instructed one of my nameless assassins, the Flower Curse wizard, to inflict one of his curses on Prince Aric. Prince Aric was dead in 10 weeks. After that, the nameless assassin was framed for murders and exiled so that the blame would not officially fall on me. Now we come to the part of the story that began on Remembrance Day in the Clover Kingdom, where I was appearing to gift the Magic Knights in honor my old friend Julius Novachrono. The nameless assassin sought revenge on me and inflicted me with one of his curses, as well as many Clover citizens and Magic Knights. It was, at that time, the Spade King saw his opening to get his revenge against me. That's when the Spade assassins began coming for me. Seeing the danger, Wizard King Fuegoleon assigned a team of Magic Knights to escort me home to the safety of the Heart Kingdom barrier. Nearing the border of the Heart Kingdom, we were attacked by Spade Kingdom army wizards. Shortly thereafter, the Spade Kingdom declared war against the Heart Kingdom. In turn, we declared war against them."
Jules was glad that his mother got through the speech without losing her temper. He was worried because Othmar looked to be foaming at the mouth in rage.
"Thank you, Queen Ophelia," said Lord Prospekt. "King Othmar, you may tell your side of the story now."
King Othmar stood up and glared right at Jules' mother. "I didn't kill Margie. And my son didn't kill Wynda. We both were at the wrong place at the wrong time. Ophelia, you wouldn't listen where your father did and then you had my son killed. Part of me understands why you did what you did. But Aric was my son. And I can't stand that you got away with it. I had hoped that the curse would take you out, but no, it didn't. There's nothing anyone can say or do that will change my mind. The Heart Kingdom must go."
Jules pursed his lips. His mind went into overdrive. King Othmar insisted that he and his son had not committed the murders of Margaret and Wynda. He seemed to be a man that would admit to victories or wouldn't care who knew how many people he killed in his lifetime. Mom must have thought the same thing. His mother was a monarch who listened, she was a mom who listened.
His mother was protecting someone.
A Queen shouldn't lay blame at her own feet. Nor should a King.
Jules tensed in his chair as Othmar sat down and the Wizard King stood up. He barely heard the words that Fuegoleon was saying. Who would his mother protect to the point of damaging her own reputation as a good and just Queen?
The answer was obvious. He had been observing long enough to know. Mom was protecting Cousin Marilla, Jules thought to himself. It had to be it. Would have Cousin Marilla taken action without telling his mother against Prince Aric? Marilla had been the one to discover the scene of her sister's murder with the supposed murder running away from the scene of the crime. Marilla was a royal and a high-ranking spy. She had the means to convince the nameless Flower Curse assassin to take on the task of killing Prince Aric.
His mother must have had found out before anyone else what Marilla did, or maybe Marilla told his mother what she did. If it came out that Marilla had been the one to cause the issues between the Heart and Spade Kingdom to increase, the calls for Marilla to be sent to face justice in Spade would be swift. And while Marilla did spend time spying in the Spade Kingdom pits (probably a punishment for going behind Jules' mother's back), she was still family.
Family protected family.
Jules knew that things were just going to get worse from here.
Neutral Territory
Poppy Estate- Poppy Manor
37th Day of the Curse
Morning
With Langris sleeping peacefully as he tried to regain his magic for the return trip home, Mimosa was sitting right next to her mother, as close as she could without seeming like she was trying cuddle her mother. They were on a mission and Mimosa was eighteen, and the unofficially Vice-Captain of the Golden Dawn.
Things were tense here in this Manor. The Heart and Spade Kingdoms' soldiers had been glaring at each other. Nobody talked during meals. The Diamond Kingdom people were complained amongst themselves about why they had to get dragged into others kingdoms' messes.
"How do you think the Summit is going, Mother," asked Mimosa.
"Hmm, I expect a lot of arguing and a lot of bruised egos of monarchs," said Nickole, simply. "What do you think, Edward?"
Edward, really 16-year-old Julius Novachrono, sighed. "You're probably right. I can't put my finger on it but I think there's something else going on under the conflict between the Heart and Spade Kingdoms."
"Hmm," said Mimosa's mother. Mimosa knew that hum. It was the judgmental hum that Nickole knew something that no one else did. Generally, it was directed at Kirsch, but it was interesting to see Nickole and "Edward" interact. She almost forgot that her mother was Julius' senior.
"What's that supposed to mean, Lady Nickole," asked Julius, in an even-tone.
"How close were you and Queen Ophelia," whispered Nickole. "Does she trust you with everything? Do you trust her with everything?"
Julius didn't respond.
Mimosa suddenly felt very uncomfortable. She got up and said, "I'm gonna check on Langris again."
"Okay, dear," said Nickole.
Mimosa hurried over to Langris' side.
Neutral Territory
Poppy Estate- Poppy Castle
37th Day of the Curse
Afternoon
"Let's get something to eat while the adults talk, Prince Con," said Noelle, taking the Crown Prince by his hand and leading him away from the deep conversation of Fuego, Mereo and Queen Ophelia. It was finally a break time. Since the two sides presented their cases and the other two kingdoms commented, it was the long process of finding a solution. It was tedious.
"Th-thank you, Lady Noelle," said Prince Con, stuttering over his words. The Clover King was basically useless and any time he opened his month, he embarrassed the Clover Kingdom and Prince Con needed some space. (Rill was trying not to cry as he got stuck with babysitting the overgrown man-child that was their king.)
Noelle smiled gently at him when out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Prince Jules of the Heart Kingdom, attempt to sneak off on his own. With his mother preoccupied and Captain Stowe watching Marilla, Noelle thought it best to keep an eye on the Heart Prince too. Quickly, she dragged Prince Con to catch up with Prince Jules. She used her free hand (the one not holding onto Prince Con's hand) to grab Prince Jules by the back of his shirt.
"Oh, no, you are not going off on your own, young man," said Noelle, sternly. "You'll be coming with me and Prince Con to get some food."
Prince Jules startled. "Uh, what?"
"I am Lady Noelle Silva of the Black Bulls, by the way," said Noelle, realizing he might not know who she was because the guards that came with the monarchs were not introduced. "Prince Con is my charge for the duration of the Summit. It's best not to go somewhere by yourself, Prince Julian."
"Oh, uh, okay," said Prince Jules, awkwardly. "Hey, Con." Noelle, satisfied that Prince Jules was not going to run off, let him go.
"H-hi, Jules," said Prince Con.
"Oh right! I forgot you two were cousins," said Noelle. As they walked to the dining area where the Young Lady Prospekt always had food waiting for the guests, Noelle thought that Con and Jules reminded her of Mimosa and herself from the start of the Magic Knight career. Con was a nervous mess, similar to Mimosa, and Jules was awkward and unable to know how to interact with others, just like Noelle had been. The two boys were cute. "It's good to have a cousin that you can count on."
"L-like you and Lady Mimosa," asked Prince Con.
"Absolutely," said Noelle. "Mimosa is my favorite cousin, after all. I can count on her for anything."
Clover Kingdom
Common Realm
37th Day of the Curse
Afternoon
"Ow, ow, ow, this is cruel and unusual punishment," complained the man.
"Shut up, no one asked you," said Zora, tightening the magical binds on the Spade spy's wrists. He and Mariella swooped in on a meeting between the Spade Kingdom spies, conveniently having them all in one spot. Between both himself and Mariella (who was scary and efficient and he definitely needed to work with her again), it was over in ten minutes.
"That's all seven of them," said Mariella, tonelessly. "It was strange to go into a battle with someone who didn't accidentally lose all his clothes or scream."
Zora snorted. "Honestly, I scream and gloat a lot more than you think."
"Hmmm, I would imagine so, as you are Asta's friend," said Mariella. "Now, what's next?"
Zora grumbled. "We have to get in touch with communications and they will send the closest Captain or Vice-Captain." Zora took out the special magical communication device that Yami got for him, since Zora was off on his own more often than not. Usually only Captains or Vice-Captains had it. He used his mana to activate it. "Hey, this is Zora Ideale of the Black Bulls, location Common Realm, twenty minutes outside of Bantam Town. I have prisoners for pick up."
Mariella watched interested in the process.
Marx's voice came out of the device. "Noted. We will send someone to help. Make sure you fill out the proper paperwork this time, Zora. I don't want to have sort through your chicken scratch notes."
Sneering, Zora turned off the device before Marx was able to continue to scold him. Proper paperwork was useless with his check boxes and reference materials. Zora always wrote down what happened and got evidence. It was usually enough. "Well, you should get back to your family, Mariella. I got these losers."
"If you are sure. I do worry about them when I'm not there"
"I know the feeling," said Zora, referring to his own dumbass family of Black Bulls. "See ya around, assassin girl. I'll tell Asta you guys are doing alright."
"Thank you."
Neutral Territory
Poppy Estate- Poppy Castle
38th Day of the Curse
Morning
This was the third torturous day of this Summit and it was more arguing than even a Magic Parliament session. Fuegoleon just wanted to get to some conclusion and not be thrown into a middle of a war. All the ideas, from treaties to amendments to previous arrangements and so forth, were rejected for one reason or another.
Fuegoleon's recent proposal of doing actual trials of the murders in an unbiased court like the Diamond judicial or the Clover judicial was rejected vehemently.
"We're getting nowhere with the usual means of peace," said Princess Klotilde of the Diamond Kingdom. "Ophie and Othmar won't accept it!" She was standing up. "So let's do this the only way, the old way. One-on-one Battle to the Death between the Heart Queen and the Spade King, loser's heir calls off the war declaration."
"That's not happening," snapped Prince Jules, the sixteen year old Prince, the namesake of Julius Novachrono. Fuegoleon was wondering when the boy was going to snap. "Fight to the death? That's some nonsense."
"Agreed, that's not a good idea," said Fuegoleon, interjecting. "It'd make things worse than they are. Revenge is a nasty circle of hate that is difficult to break."
Everyone fell silent. This was getting tiresome.
"How about a Battle of Champions?"
The people in the room looked at the quiet, shy Prince Con of Clover. Fuegoleon didn't think the young Prince would even speak a word in this Summit. Interjecting to support the future King of Clover, Fuegoleon said, "That's actually a good idea, Prince Con. Instead of death matches, I mean. The Heart Queen and the Spade King can pick each of their best warriors and go best out of 3, non-fatal."
"I don't know," said Princess Klotilde, "I think death matches would be better."
"Uh, no death matches," argued Prince Jules.
And the arguing erupted about whether or not it was a good idea or what kind of rules there will be for non-fatal matches.
Fuegoleon sighed. Give him the Magic Parliament any day over dealing with other monarchs.
Neutral Territory
Outside the Poppy Estate
38th Day of the Curse
Morning
Julius was not pleased at the moment. It was nearly noon when everyone housed at the Poppy Manor was summoned by Lady Prospekt and informed them of the conclusion of the Summit. Certainly, Julius was grateful that it wasn't death matches, but still a Battle of Champions was not what he envisioned to happen to stop the war. Julius wouldn't have been so bothered if he didn't learn that his godson was fighting against the Spade Princess.
As there were no fighting on Poppy Estate grounds, everyone was moved outside the borders of the estate and the protection of the peace-treaty of it. Julius stood in cleared field next to Nickole, Mimosa, Langris and Klaus. He watched Ophie wring her hands together, worriedly, from across the field, as each Kingdom were separated by their home kingdom.
"So, this isn't what I expected to happen," said Sal to her husband.
"Me either, but it's a valid way to get out the aggression. At least this matter will be settle. There's no guarantee that this will stop any future issues causing a war," said Fuegoleon to his wife. "Honestly, this was Prince Con's idea. And the only one everyone was able to agree on, so I count it as a win."
"May I ask why Prince Jules is one of the Heart Kingdom's champions," asked Julius.
Fuegoleon grimaced. "It was agreed that the three matches' participants had to be relatively at an even mana level and fighting skill level. Of course, Queen Ophelia would pick Miss Marilla and Captain Stowe, who were easy enough to match with two of the Spade Generals. The problem was that King Othmar insisted that his daughter be the third Champion."
"And Prince Jules was the closest to her level unlike the rest of the Heart retinue," finished Julius, sighing. "And I suppose Prince Jules was pleased to get a chance to fight."
"Considering that Prince Jules and Princess Eleanor have been at each other's throats for the last three days, yes," said Fuegoleon, shaking his head. "I hope that this goes in the favor of the Heart."
Julius wished the same. He didn't think that Ophie's ego would be able to take the hit and back down from the war declaration. She had a hard enough time being the ruling Queen of Heart and having a host of doubters.
Setting his attention to the first match between Captain Oira Stowe of Heart and General Maxwell Wolfgang Spade. Julius was excited to see the different magics, despite the dire consequences.
Captain Oira Stowe was a formidable opponent, with her earth magic affinity. Her commanding presence made her an excellent leader, having been one of the top officers in the Heart Kingdom's Special Forces. She had retired for reasons that Julius was unable to get out of Ophie. Had the Captain and Ophie had a falling out? He didn't know for certain.
General Maxwell Wolfgang Spade was the oldest cousin of King Othmar. Maxwell was a career military man, loyal to a fault to the Spade Kingdom way of life. His fire magic capabilities matched those of House Vermillion.
Generally, in match-up between someone with fire and someone with earth, the earth magic user would win because "earth" can smother the oxygen out of fire magic. But this was not a simple match-up between average mana users, this was a match between two fierce wizards.
"Humph, looks like I'm right to keep an eye on her while she's living in Clover," mumbled Sal to herself, and low enough that only Fuegoleon and Julius heard her.
The battle between the Captain and the General was fierce. Each had mastery over their magic that was truly impressive. However, Julius watched the two combatants fight, General Maxwell's magic control was far superior to Oira's.
"When can you tell the match ends," asked Julius.
"The first to quit verbally," said Fuegoleon.
The back and forth took its toll on Oira, who was technically retired, and everyone with battle experience was able to see it. So it was no wonder that Oira said after getting knocked down, she said, "I yield!"
The first match went to Spade.
Julius frowned as Oira went over to Ophie. The Captain seemed to be apologizing to Ophie, as one of the Heart Kingdom's healers looked over Oira's injuries.
"Marilla was the one that helped out Nozel and Vanessa," said Fuegoleon. "She can fight without magic as well as with magic."
"She's Ophie's cousin," said Julius. "It's a pity that Luck isn't here. She's got a lightning affinity. He could learn something from her."
"Or he'd just want to fight her," mumbled Mimosa and Klaus at the same time.
Julius hid a smile.
Marilla Nova Heart was set to face General Peck Wolfgang Spade, the age-mate cousin of King Othmar.
"He's got that burning ice affinity," commented Mereoleona. "An unusual affinity."
Julius heard of him as well. Burning ice was a bit of a misnomer. General Peck's affinity was actually Methane Clathrate affinity, but burning ice was easier to remember. He was a very dangerous man, having grown up alongside King Othmar, who was known for his viciousness.
Marilla was in her thirties, in her prime, while General Peck had the experience and expertise in battle.
Once the battle started, Julius' jaw dropped. Unlike the relatively back and forth of the previous match, Marilla went past her limits immediately. She electrified the entire field, not even bothering avoiding the spectators. Her speed was blindingly fast, as she flitted around the battlefield. To the credit of General Peck, he was not confusingly watching her, he was standing still, biding his time.
Julius hopped up and down, excited.
"This is so cool," said Julius.
"She's gonna win," said Mereoleona, arms crossed. "You can feel her fury."
Mereoleona was right because after a few high-powered shocks, General Peck yelled, "I yield. My heart can't take the shocks!"
It was one-to-one and the next match was going to be the deciding factor. Julius hoped that Prince Jules was ready.
Clover Kingdom
Forsaken Realm
Black Bulls Hideout
38th Day of the Curse
Morning
Zora entered the Black Bulls headquarters, only to be greeted by Charmy, Vanessa, and Luck, loudly. Too loudly for him, as he needed sleep and not yelling.
"Welcome home, Zora," cheered Vanessa.
"Yeah, I'm back," replied Zora.
"Do you wanna fight, Zora?"
"No, Luck, I don't," he told the crazy lightning boy.
"You got a package! And we didn't open it this time," said Charmy, bounding up to him, and handing him a box. "It looks like it came from the Coral Peacocks!"
Zora rolled his eyes, as he opened it to see what was inside. There was a note on top. It was from Kirsch. "Thanks for respecting my privacy, Charmy."
"For your travels, make sure you eat, or I'll tell my mother – Kirsch
He couldn't help it. He laughed. Kirsch was a goddamn weirdo. Under the note, there was homemade beef jerky. Zora put the lid back on and headed toward the stairs to get to his room. "Night, losers."
"Don't sleep too long," said Charmy. "Ma Shula is making a big feast. She's got to head out tonight to get back to Rayaka."
Zora nodded. "Won't miss it."
He found himself still chuckling as he got to his room.
Neutral Territory
Outside the Poppy Estate
38th Day of the Curse
Morning
Ophie hated herself for letting things get this far.
And now, her son might get hurt due to her failings as a Queen, as a cousin and a mother.
She clasped her hands tightly together in front of her. Jules was her whole world and if something happened to him because she protected Marilla too much, Ophie would never forgive herself. Oira and Marilla stood by her side, as Jules went to the field where Princess Eleanor waited.
"He'll be fine, Your Majesty," said Captain Stowe. "He's been trained by the best wizards in Heart Kingdom. He's a bright, gifted kid."
"Except," said Marilla, ever-the-pessimist, interjecting, "Princess Eleanor inherited her father's dual magic affinity—metal and fire. Young Jules will have his work cut out for him."
Ophie bit her lip. Princess Eleanor had not just one powerful elemental magic affinity, but two. If she was trained by her father, it would be a tough match. Jules' magic affinity seemed strange at first glance, as it was Mist. It seemed far too weak to be a royal's magic affinity. It was clearly derived from Ophie's own all-encompassing Weather magic and his father's weaker Light magic.
She really should pay more attention to Jules' training. She hoped that her wizards managed to train him to battle against someone with a more powerful affinity.
Right now, she needed to believe in her son.
"He's my son," said Ophie, whispered to herself. "He'll win." She caught Julius staring at her from across the field. He looked equally as worried, but nodded at her. He believed in Jules too.
The match began with Princess Eleanor on the offensive, generating circle of blue flames around herself and Jules. She charged at him, summoned two swords. To Jules' credit, he didn't look worried, but more amused than anything as he dodged easily. Ophie chided him in her mind to not get too arrogant.
With his own grimoire out, Jules doused the flames and both himself and Princess Eleanor with his mists, one of the first spells he learned.
"You're weak," laughed Princess Eleanor.
Jules didn't deign to respond, but merely smirked at her. This proved to anger the Spade Princess. It was times like these that Jules honestly reminded Ophie of her older brother, long since exiled from the family, who was able to get on anyone's nerves in the middle of a battle.
The pages of Ophie's son's grimoire flipped and suddenly Princess Eleanor diverted her attention to attacking nothing at all. She was yelling fiercely, attempting to chop up the sky. What did Jules do?
"That is one of his Mirage techniques," softly said by Captain Reeves, the squad captain in charge of Jules' training. "You needn't worry. Jules has your intelligence and your brother's battle sense and your father's penchant for psychological warfare. And he has a strong desire to protect."
Ophie smiled, as Jules shook his head and took out his own short sword from his belt without unsheathing and whacked the Spade Princess on the neck, causing her to collapse from shock.
"Looks like she's out cold. I win," announced Jules. "The Heart Kingdom wins."
Ophie rushed over and hugged him, probably embarrassing him. "Oh! That was a wonderful victory, Jules!"
"Yes," said Lady Prospekt, appearing. "King Othmar, I believe you have a war declaration to rescind now."
King Othmar looked furious, but said, "It is what we all agreed. I still don't forgive you, Ophelia and I don't expect you to forgive me. But I, as the ruling monarch of the Spade Kingdom, rescind the war declaration against the Heart Kingdom. Expect the official paper within one day of my return to the Spade capital."
Ophie nodded. "Understood. Therefore, as you rescinded the war declaration, the Heart Kingdom will too back down."
Things were still tense, but this matter was resolved.
"Excellent, excellent," said Lady Prospekt, nodding. "I'll finalize the paperwork for the Summit and we can put this matter to rest."
Then, Princess Eleanor woke up after being healed by one of the Spade Kingdom healers. She wasn't hurt too badly, but she was furious.
"How could I lose to a weakling like him!?"
"Let it go," said King Othmar, sternly. "What is done is done. Prince Julian of Heart bested you this time. It only means that you need to train harder."
Ophie winced, remembering the same words her own father said to her time and time again when she was still trying to control her weather magic. Her sympathy for Princess Eleanor evaporated when her grimoire went active and Ophie sensed a familiar energy.
"Everyone get back," barked Mereoleona Vermillion. People of all four kingdoms moved away from Princess Eleanor as the black energy familiar to certain individuals, especially the Clover Kingdom.
Soon, it was apparent.
Princess Eleanor had been possessed by a demon and the demon energy encased the area and the possessed Princess' sights was on Ophie's son. Ophie pushed Jules behind her, and Captain Stowe and Captain Reeves grabbed Jules, as the fight began.
"Shit, we need Asta," shouted Noelle Silva. "Langris, go get him!"
"I still don't have enough energy," shouted back Langris Vaude. "Who else is a damn spatial magic user here?!"
"I am," said Lady Prospekt, loudly. "I cannot focus it as much as you, but together, we can retrieve this man named Asta!"
"WE ARE HOLDING THE DEMON HERE UNTIL ASTA ARRIVES," yelled Mereoleona.
"The demon cannot go any further. DIAMOND SOLDIERS TO ME," shouted the Diamond Princess, Klotilde. "Mars, protect my father!"
"Rill, Sal, Nickole, protect our King and Prince," ordered Fuegoleon.
"I knew this was going to happen," muttered King Othmar. "SPADE SOLDIERS, BACK ME UP."
Ophie heard the others, but she was focused on one thing and one thing only—protecting her only child until Asta, the anti-magic boy, arrived.
Ch. End
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