Fairy x Adventure

by Magnafeana

In a new era after the Alvarez War, Lucy, Natsu, and the rest of Fairy Tail not only face new challenges but watch as their kids go on new journeys, learn new powers, and battle new enemies and old! Join Luna, Nashi, and the upcoming generation of Mages on Fairy Tail and more on their never-ending adventure!

102. Adventure 102

Disclaimer: I do not own Hiro Mashima's Fairy Tail, any work professionally associated with it, nor any pop culture or classical references. All original plots and characters are mine.

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In a land far, far away lies the kingdom of Fiore, a small, peaceful nation of 17 million, and a place filled with Magic found in every home, bought and sold in every marketplace. For most, Magic is merely a tool, a mundane part of everyday life. For some, however, Magic is an art, and they've devoted their lives to its practice. These are the wizards. Banded together into magical guilds, they ply their skills in search of fame and fortune. Many such guilds dot the landscape of Fiore. But there is a certain guild in a certain town that soars high above the rest, one from which countless legends have been born. A guild that will no doubt continue to create legends well into the future. Its name...is Fairy Tail.

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LAST TIME, on Fairy Adventure, Silver and Ena hit the road to Savant Hall in Larkspur, home to the Marquis, the Marchioness, and their four children. But everything is not what it seems as we learn about Ena's real reason to be here and a religious organization taking the world by storm known as the "Holy Eye". But it seems like Nora can be trusted—even if Silver thinks otherwise. Teatime proves to be about gossip when Ena learns about the knightly reception ball for the Holy Knight exams and agrees to come. But when dinner proves to be eventful with poisoned food and broken glass, you can only worry what's in store for Ena and Silver for the days to come.

'And you… You could love me back.'

Oh, Silver. Maybe denying your visions might not be the right call after all.

---

"Ha…! Ha-ha!"

The dew on the grass had yet to leave and the sun still hid from his jaded lunar lover, but Ena did not care. The moment Nora had told her prior that she was entitled to use his training grounds to continue her conditioning, she had made sure Silver was aware she would take her leave at three-thirty in the morning to work. Dressed in loose training pants and a sports bra and tank top with her hands wrapped and hair in a high ponytail, she had gone for her laps around the track, had done her stretches, and now she was practicing her martial arts on a dummy Richard had been happy enough to drag out for her.

"Ha! Ha!"

Ena had pushed for him to stay, sleep, I'll be back soon, but Silver had shaken off her dismissal to sit on the steps with water bottle and a towel ready for her when she decided she was done. The mists swarmed the field, but he kept it to himself he had made sure the training area was free from it as he pushed his Magic through the fog and settled it down. He watched her sharp movements with rapt interest and admiration.

"Ha!"

Silver sighed and could see parts of his breath. March was rapidly warmer, but with it shy of four in the morning and the sun too ashamed to show his face, it was still a little cold. Those blues softened as Ena stepped back for a five-second breather and reset. I knew she trained. Lulu told me Ena was a masochist and would get up crazy early to physically condition and take a quick nap before I came over. But I was too shy to ask if I could watch. She's amazing.

He shoved his hands in his jacket pockets. My Magic doesn't need the same training as her. It's not as aggressive. But the way she moves… I wish I could move like that.

"Ha! Ha!" Ena landed two quick jabs before moving to a roundhouse kick.

He exhaled from his nose. Yesterday was a lot. Those blues went a little downcast. I don't understand. I thought…if I made my choice, then all of this would go away. But it just feels worse, and I hate it. I hate myself for losing control like this. But I don't know what to do.

"It's clear that whatever your dreams are telling you… It needs to be shared with you."

Silver shut his eyes, tense and betrayed. All my dreams keep telling me…are to leave you. And I can't do that. His eyes opened to observe Ena as she circled the dummy before launching her assault. It felt so nice…to be in your arms… I know you'll never love me back. And I'm pretty pathetic and you're just so…talented and smart and beautiful. But… His hands clenched. When you took care of me…and you held me…I felt like maybe you could…

He locked his jaw. Don't think about it. It's not what she wants. You have to respect that, he told himself, and he stomped down on that betraying hope and the resulting sadness. Besides, I have other things to think about. Like that duel and this place and Nora. His lips curled, and his teeth ached for something he could not place.

Someone messed with her food. And the Marchioness is out to expose her. I know I can't stop Ena from doing what she wants, but I'm so worried. I can't do anything here. I'm her attendant. I'm not a shark in the water. The muscle in his neck twinged. But I can't sit by and do nothing. I can't be a shark. But I can still do what it takes to keep her safe.

• — • — •

"Please take care of Ena. I know she's strong and confident." The focus looked upon Aine with her smile full of sadness. "But it's much harder to fight alone than it is with someone by your side. She's capable and courageous, but I'm still worried what will happen if she keeps fighting alone."

The memory switched to show the focus looking at Erza in her robe and hexagonal chess between them. Those kobichas stared him down, serious and careful. "My daughter is just like me when I was her age. She's smart and strong and wise beyond her years. However, she's the type of young lady who builds barriers around herself and doesn't realize others are willing to protect her from hurt and perhaps teach her how to love. But if you can look beyond that, I'll ask you again."

Those browns were determined. "Please, Silver. Take good care of Ena."

• — • — •

"Ha!" Ena pounced and took down the dummy with her fist pulled within inches of her opponent's life.

Silver watched with a hard resolve. I know she's used to working alone. But she has me now. If she wants to take risks, I'll follow her. But I'll make sure she's protected from the sides and behind her so she can keep moving forward. That's why I'll stay here. That's my resolve.

Ena was slow to get to her feet, panting with sweat all across her body. She found a water bottle being given to her, and she waterfalled an impressive amount to swish around and swallow. A towel was spilled into her free hand, and she blotted her flushed face. "Thank you," she breathed.

"Sure."

Ena looked up at Silver and frowned taking in his expression. "You look like you decided something while I was working out."

"I did?" Silver had to smile and tease, "Nothing gets past you, I guess." He sighed out his mirth.

Ena cocked her head, concerned. "If this is about last night—"

"No." Silver shook his head, then stopped. "Well, yes, but also, no, it's not." Another breath before honest blues connected with questioning browns. "I'm just realizing I'll still follow you even if you run into fire."

Ena raised an eyebrow. "You don't need to do that."

"Don't go running into fire and I won't have to," Silver fired back.

Ena chuckled. "That's a fair point." She put the towel around her neck and took another guzzle of her drink. "I appreciate the sentiment, Silver, and thank you for it, but you're not bound to me like that. I understand the risks, and I would never ask you to take some of that burden off me."

"I know." Silver caressed her cheek to bring her attention back to him. "I know you wouldn't," he murmured. "But I want to do it anyway."

Ena hummed. "You're an incorrigible fool." But those words held a note of affection to them, and she laughed when Silver took her towel to wipe away the sweat from her skin with gentle strokes. "Silver, you're coddling me like a child. I can care for myself."

"You told me that you were trusting me to care for you this entire trip."

"Well, I…" Ena frowned. "Well… Yes, but…"

"Then let me take care of you. After all"—Silver offered her a soft smile—"I'm devoted to my mistress."

Ena blinked before she acquiesced to his care as she lowered her lashes. "All right. You win." Amusement and resignation couched her words. "But remember, this level of care is just until we leave the estate. Then, you can go back to normal."

Silver tried hard not to feel sad at that. But… I like taking care of you…just like you took care of me… But that was a thought he would never say aloud. He offered instead, "Are you sure training this early was a good idea when your duel is today? Won't you be tired?"

"Nonsense. I'll have plenty of stamina," Ena assured before she jested, "But if you're offering to become my sparring partner…" She laughed when Silver recoiled, fearful. "I'm teasing." She felt his bicep. "You have a good physique from your conditioning and swimming. Had you been in a squisher shape, you'd be training at my side."

Her hand drifted from his bicep to his shoulder as her mind slipped back into work mode. "Firm and toned abdomen. You're well-balanced. Swimmer's bodies are notorious for broad shoulders, your toned abdomen, and your legs." Her hand drifted to feel his stomach before she offered him a look of appraisal and approved. "You're certainly at the apex of your game, especially for someone in your class. Well done." She looked up—

—and she sweatdropped when she saw Silver shaking like a chihuahua and covering his nose, looking crazy. "Ah… Are you all right? You look…alarmingly red." Her brow furrowed, and she felt his forehead. "A little hot… Are you running a fever—?"

"No, no, I'm fine!" Silver shrilly assured. "I-I-I-I'm okay!" His nose tingled, and he tightened his grip. I'm so pathetic getting excited like this. And a pervert. She just had to touch me and compliment me, and now I feel—

Ena's eyes went wide when she saw actual steam come off Silver in waves. "You're steaming!" She tried to get close, but he dodged her. "Silver." She tried again, and he sprung back, wild-eyed. Fed up, she snapped, "Silver Fullbuster, come here this instant. I am not asking."

Silver swiftly shook his head.

Ena narrowed her eyes and clenched her jaw. "That wasn't a question. Come. Now."

Silver stepped back and forced out a weak, "No."

Ena arched a challenging eyebrow. "Are you…defying your mistress?"

Silver's blues flicked around wildly. "I-I-I, um… N-No?"

"Then come – here."

"I…" Silver trembled and took another step back when Ena took a threatening step forward and blurted, "Stay away from me!" And he made a ran for it, wanting to cry. Why me? Why couldn't I be normal? Why does my body hate me? This is hot and bothered? Are you serious? Why did my mom give me this Magic—? "Ah!"

Silver choked when he was tackled to the ground and nearly had the sense knocked out of him at the sheer force on his back. He was flipped over with his sweatshirt riding up and his hands pinned above his head. Fearfully, he looked up as Ena barred him from leaving as she sat on top of him, both breathing heavy. Oh my god…

Silver's eye twitched when he felt his nose tingle. This is so much worse!

"Be still," Ena commanded. "Let me check your temperature."

"B-But—!" Silver shut up when Ena leered at him and thickly swallowed when she leaned forward to press the back of her free hand onto his forehead. But those blues wandered over every feature offered.

She's toned too… She's normally covering herself, so I never notice it, but… She's fit. It's impressive. His nostrils flared and his lashes fluttered. I can smell she's sweaty, but…she still smells sweet… Those blues landed on the juncture of her neck and shoulder, exposed, vulnerable. She smells…so sweet…

His tongue ran over sharp teeth.

Ena frowned. "It looks like you're cooling yourself down." Now she was huffy. "Well, you could have just told me you were having a lapse in controlling your Magic, Silver. Honestly. It's not that big of a deal." She released his wrists. "Now, I…"

Those browns met glowing blues.

Ena felt paralyzed for a moment when Silver moved quicker than she accounted for. His hand was at his nape and sharpness pressed against skin. That instinctive fear hit her stomach from the day before, but she stayed still like an animal that knew playing dead served better than a fight. The sharpness stayed there, poised, a threat, but it did not impale skin. It did not take.

Ena whispered, withholding her terror, "Silver?"

Silence

Silver released her, and Ena was quick to get off and give him her back to hide her shock and panic. Those eyes… His teeth… Fingers pressed upon her neck, but nothing remained outside of damp flesh. Relief hit her, but she did not understand that either. He really was going to…bite me, but… Why? Is that some sort of technique? But… She desperately calmed her heart. Why was I so afraid? I couldn't sense killing intent, but it felt serious…

"Ena?"

Ena locked down her body before it could jump and pivoted to see Silver had gotten to his feet with his expression masked into hesitancy and remorse and confusion. "I'm sorry. I… I don't know what's wrong with me. I didn't mean to do that. I'm really sorry."

"Right. I'm…I'm sure you didn't." Ena found her footing again and could breathe. "You're still stressed. Come. I'm finished and require a cool down bath."

Silver swallowed, but his eyes would not meet hers. "Yes, mistress." Shoulders hunched, he grabbed the water bottle and the fallen town and turned back to the entrance to the estate—

"Silver."

He paused and tensed when a hand brushed his cheek. His chin was held to pull him down, and he closed his eyes at the kiss he felt on his forehead. His eyes opened for regretful blues to collide with soft browns.

"Don't beat yourself up. Everyone gets out of control—including me." She lightened the mood by adding, "As long as you don't turn into the menace Igneel was, you're fine. And you're too sweet to ever do that."

Silver perked. "You think I'm sweet?"

"I do." Ena dropped her hand to start walking. "And it would be so sweet of you to pick up the pace. I'm in desperate need of a hot bath and expect you to make sure it's the right temperature. Perhaps make it have bubbles as you did before when we were in the bath together."

Silver scrambled after her, face red. "I-I-I can't do that remotely!" he hurried to explain. "I-I have to be in the water to do that, so…"

"Well then, that's an easy fix. Join me in my bath."

"What!"

"I'm teasing, Silver. Just a funny joke."

"Wasn't funny to me…"

"What was that, piglet?"

"Nothing, mistress."

And as the faithful Diaval scurried after his Maleficent, neither noticed that as the mists rolled in, free from their control, something had shifted. But it was not in the shadows of the surrounding forest, oh no. The movement came from the mist itself to forge into a body that blended into the forest.

And burnt yellows glowed from it.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Itsu datte kimi no sono-te wa

Itsu demo sekai o kae reru yo

Tsudzukete ku koto yamecha dame datte

Kon'na mon janaidaro? Susume!

•

Mukuwarenai sono doryoku wa

`kabe' o `tobira' ni kaerukara

Kowagarazu ni sa~a nokku shite

It will be OK

Let's go sonosakihe

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Nora's suite in the annex was as big as the master's quarters in the main part of Savant Hall with an adjunct office, sitting room, and maid's quarters attached. Dressed in eggshell white with bronzed white trimmings. The curtains had yet to be drawn back, and the workers had been discrete in cleaning his room and slipping out. Nora stayed in his oversized bed with his brow pinched.

A quick breath and his eyes cracked open blearily. Ha… What happened to me? He pressed a hand against his forehead. I see. Ena's servant was right. Someone had tampered with her dish. It was good of me to switch it out. It'll take too long for the effect to work on me than it would for her. I can already tell they aimed this with a Mage in mind. A vision of scarlet flashed before him and softened his eyes. She truly is beautiful—in body and in spirit.

KNOCK-KNOCK.

Nora grunted as he sat up and rubbed his head. "Come in, Meg."

Meg came in with a tablet tucked under her arm and a tray of water and tea. "Good morning, My Lord." She slowed in her steps when she witnessed Nora's expression and placed the tray at his bedside. She sighed. "Why did you do that, Nora?"

"Because I'm not as valuable," Nora told her. "I expected some sort of trickery. I should've accounted for some sort of poison."

I'm still surprised her servant had that good of instinct. He's bold to do that in front of the Marchioness, though. If he had kept making a scene, she would've removed him and feigned offense. His eyes darkened. But how could he tell her dish was poisoned? Was it a hunch? Or was his mistrust that great?

"Erica's made a good blend of tea that should help dull your symptoms, but we really should consider hiring your own Apothecary," Meg told him as she whipped out her tablet. "I can't believe the Marchioness was that bold."

"I don't think it was her."

Meg pushed up her glasses. "What do you mean?"

Nora tended to his tea as he considered his words. "The Marchioness is many things, but she's not as great of an actress as she thinks—at least, not to her own son." He took another sip of the blend. "Her confusion was genuine when Ena's servant stopped her from eating. I watched her expression. She didn't keep looking at my food or look angry. In fact, when Ena pretended to feel faint, she looked more panicked than anything. She's more worried Ena would preemptively leave before Mother Clarion's arrival."

Meg raised an eyebrow. "So, the rumors about the Enchantress are true? She's hiding her potential?"

"Her secrets are her own," Nora put firmly. "But the Marchioness will try to find out one way or another. And bringing in Mother Clarion from the Enchant Convent is just a step." He gripped his tea. She's always been eager to please Mother Clarion. I've watched it every time they meet. She always talks about Mother Clarion like she walked on water, which makes her an excellent puppet. He locked his jaw. But I can't meet the puppet master unless I'm on the inside.

He set down his cup on his saucer. "Where's Tristan?"

"He was in the library," Meg reported. "Should I call for him?"

"No. That's okay," Nora assured. Tristan knows why he's here. His interest in deep history will help put the pieces in their place. He swung his legs out of bed and cringed when a bout of dizziness hit him. I have to become a Holy Knight. It's my only chance. But more than that… He got up to go to his armoire. After taking off the lock, he parted both doors. You… You've been waiting for this day… Thank you for being patient with me, but I finally found her.

He looked upon a levitating sword sheathe drenched in black with its pommel well-crafted and intricate. It was clear this sword had once been born in kindness had a violent upbringing. He stared as it floated. "Don't worry," he whispered. "I'll do as I promised. Once she wins, I'll return you to the one you were meant to serve…Black Sword."

And the sunstone on the hilt of the blade gleamed in excitement.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure 102

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The Sword Dance of Sun and Moon

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太陽と月の剣舞

•

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Breakfast was in the south-facing sunroom with bountiful plants and a romantic sun-bleached yellow painting the walls. Sylvie had come to breakfast in a frilly blouse and high-rise long skirt while Odette had played up her feminine beauty with a button dress and her hair in an intricate pinned-up braid. Irina had gone with buttoned high-waisted pants, a comfortable blouse, and a blazer. Nora had come in his button-down and vest while Ena had chosen sailor twofer collared midi dress, and Silver had helped her pin-up her hair.

The choices today were simplistic. Eggs however they wanted with whatever they wanted on top with bacon (they had given tofu bacon to Ena) with hash casserole and biscuits. Silver kept to the wall with Trinity and Meg, all already having eaten.

Irina finished a bite of her egg before she inquired, "Ena, I trust you slept well? I was worried about how you might be feeling and told my stubborn son if you were not feeling well, we could postpone the duel and you could have your breakfast in your suite." She shot Nora a look.

But Ena assured, "A little rest and relaxation served me well, My Lady. I have no complaints and only enthusiasm for today's duel with the young lord."

"Excellent news!" Irina cheered. "I'm happy to hear it!"

Ena nodded, but her eyes slid to Nora, scrutinizing the way he was slow in eating his breakfast. I'm worried for him. He came to escort me down for breakfast, but I could feel something was wrong. He looks tired. But to bring up his condition so brazenly would insult his honor. And that is what a knight holds above all else.

She turned back to his food. I accept duels on the reasonable request both myself and my opponent are one hundred percent. If he's sick, I'll be forced to delay it. The thought unnerved her. But I'm not sure when I could reschedule. Not with my preparations for the business trip to Caelum next month, then fashion week… And if he's confirmed sick, I have no reasonable excuse against the Marchioness.

She clutched her fork. But I refuse to fight a weak opponent.

Nora's voice dragged Ena out of her thoughts. "I'm happy to hear it too. I've looked forward to this duel for a long time." He saddled Ena with a knowing expression. "And I intend to see it through today."

Ena understood. "Very well. Know that I won't go easy on you, lord or not."

"I hope not." Nora murmured, "My sword wants to see what you can do. She's excited to meet you…and see your own blade." He gave her a tiny nod.

Ena nodded as she cleared her throat and went for her morning cocktail. His sword must be unique. She hid her smile when she felt Lunagr'an's vibrations. Lunagr'an has been excited since we came onto the property. She must sense this blade we're facing is one worthy of her. Her eyes darkened. I still don't understand how my father got it…or how he knew it would respond to me. Mother says the Forge created Lunagr'an, but… I didn't think swords chose their swordsmen so dramatically.

She remembered that heated moment with Mystogan forcing her away that her power spurted, and her sword ripped from the packaging to happily sing in her hands.

It was like…she couldn't even wait to get into my hands. Like she had been waiting for a long time. Ena ate more of her breakfast. I asked my mother if she ever had the same. She said she can feel that with her swords over time, but she's never had a weapon do that to her initially. And she's tight-lipped about why my father thought a sword was an appropriate gift to a child.

She flooded with amusement when she felt her sword's indignation to such a thought. But I love her dearly and trust her blindly. I hope we can both enjoy this duel.

The doors opened, and Tristan hurried in to claim his spot at the table. "Sorry I'm late." How hilarious the son of a Viscount had such terrible manners. He winked at Ena and crooned, "Wouldn't want to miss a moment of being in your presence."

Sylvie rolled her eyes, Ena turned a deaf ear, and Nora rolled his eyes into his next drink. Irina purses her lips before putting on a tight smile. "Tristan. We're happy to have you at the table." She waved a hand, and one of the workers ducked away to retrieve Tristan's prepared plate. "Have you spoken to your father about a…prompt return to your estate?"

"Mother, Tristan will be staying until after the reception, and we'll both be returning to the college together," Nora reminded.

"Ah. Right." Irina had to take a large swallow of her drink at that remembrance.

Nora casually asked his friend, "I heard you've been in the library all morning. I'm surprised. Normally, you're bothering me with something or the other."

"Yeah, well, I have to do some extra work to keep my grades up," Tristan admitted, sheepish, rubbing his neck. "Dad made it clear if I'm not taking every extra credit opportunity to come home with straight A's, it's off to military school for me."

Nora met his eyes. "I understand."

The worker came back to present Tristan's dish and beverage before becoming another shadow on the wall. As Tristan cut into his over-medium eggs, he asked Ena, "So you can fight, you're a Mage, you're a fashion icon, you're beautiful—is there any other title I'm missing?"

"I think you're embellishing me a little too much," Ena tittered. "I'm nothing special."

Tristan cackled. "I think we can all disagree with that! You're pretty talented!"

"While Tristan isn't normally right, I agree with him on this," Nora said to Ena. "You're extremely gifted. Embrace it. You've earned everything you've worked for and then some."

Sylvie enthusiastically agreed. "Right! I'm so excited to see your dress for the reception! Every time I see photos of you from all your events, you always look so flawless!"

"And single." Tristan jested to Ena with a wiggle of his eyebrows, "I'm a lot more fun at parties, if you ask me, over Nora. If you want to actually have fun…"

Nora shot Tristan a sour look while Irina looked ready to throw down a gauntlet, but Ena responded, "You very much are a delightful character, Lord Tristan, and your offer to escort me and entertain me flatters me dearly. However, I'll have to decline as the young lord asked for my hand first." Her eyes twinkled. "Perhaps if you're quicker next time, you can serve as my entertainment."

Tristan's jaw dropped before he looked at Nora. "I like her. Next party, Red, we can—"

Nora loudly cleared his throat and icily told Tristan, "Don't you have more studying to do?"

"Maybe." Tristan's lips quirked at Nora's annoyance before he turned back to Ena. "If you ever need a date to another event with all the fun nobility, you know where to find me. I'll show you how to party like a noble."

Sylvie sneered, "I don't think Ena's interested in being in another gossip blog with you and your pants down."

"No need to be jealous it wasn't you," Tristan shot back.

Irina looked like she was mentally counting backwards before she sprung her smile onto Ena. "I'm sure you and Nora will have a magnificent time together." There was no point in her stopping Sylvie and Tristan's verbal sparring. She knew better than to try. "You'll get to see Nora's dancing. He's a wonderful dancer." She winked. "He learned from the best."

"I look forward to it," Ena told her with a glance at Nora. She took in his pinched expression, but she decided not to comment on it and went to Odette for more conversation. Once we're alone, I'll have to make sure to prod about what's going on. If it's clear that his sickness came from my food last night, then I was targeted. The question is…what was I targeted with and why?

Silver kept to himself as he watched Ena eat. I can't smell that weird smell from yesterday, so everything is safe. But still… The fact that someone attempted to poison Ena angers me…a lot. He held back from tensing. If the point was to out her, why poison her?

"I'm sure it wasn't for my death."

• — • — •

Bubbles had covered the entire bath. Even though Ena had jested about him joining her inside the bathtub, once he had blurted, he could wash her back, she obliged. And after several breathing techniques later, he was calm enough to kneel at the tub and scrub her back.

Ena pointed and flexed one foot in the tub as Silver worked on her back. "I'm more of value alive if they suspect my Enchant is in a master class," she explained to him. "I can guess that the poison would have made me severely sick, which would force me to stay here longer, but even then…" She sighed and shook her head.

"Do you think it was to drug you?" Silver questioned.

"Mmm, I considered it, but they're aware you're a Mage too and you're glued to my side. You wouldn't allow anyone to take me if I was drugged. And besides, we were too in public." Ena closed her eyes as he worked through her hair. "I considered something to weaken me to tip the scales in Nora's favor, but that doesn't make sense either." She relaxed in the tub, and Silver adjusted to her. "I'm just unsure of the motive. If we don't have a motive, we can't predict the next attempt." She hissed a breath. "Ah, that feels nice."

Silver stopped for more shampoo and then continued his ministrations. "Either way, I'll be sure to be on the lookout. You can count on me. I won't let anything happen to you."

"I know." Ena tilted her head back so her gentle gaze looked into the focus. "I know you won't. I'm trusting myself to you, Silver. And I know you won't break that trust." Her lashes fluttered as she closed her eyes. "And since I have absolute trust in you, perhaps you could give me a full-body rubdown—?"

"Excuse me!"

Ena laughed and flicked some bubbles at him. "I'm teasing, Silver."

"You and your jokes," Silver grumbled, much to Ena's mirth. 'The things she does to my heart.' He threaded his hands through her scarlet locks and murmured, "Thanks for trusting me."

"Of course." Ena smiled up at him. "What are friends for?"

• — • — •

Silver blinked out of the memory. She's trusting me with her life. And it's my job to protect it with everything I have. She might trust Nora, but I don't. Still, though… He cast a curious look at the young lord. He doesn't smell right. I don't know. He smells funny. I know it's that poison that was in Ena's food, but… What's it doing to him? He looks a little tired but still…

Trinity moved as something came to her earpiece. She darted to the Marchioness to whisper, and Irina perked. "Wonderful! Send them in!" As Trinity nodded and spoke into her earpiece, Irina told everyone, "All, I have some guests who traveled far for both the exam and for the duel today. They're a real treat!"

Both Ena and Nora shared suspicion in their eyes and caution.

STEP… STEP…

The sunroom doors opened wide.

Irina's smile widened. "Everyone, I would like to introduce you to two very special"—her eyes slid to her son—"Holy Knights."

Two people had entered the sunroom no more than five steps with varying heights and dressed professionally for the event. The one who stepped forward was a kind woman with mauve hair, a pleasant disposition, and her eyes looked like they were closed. She had come in a burgundy pantsuit, but she wore her Fioren Holy Knight broach which had a dramatic cross, and on top was the blossoming crocus flower. The center had a praying woman in the metal.

She offered a bow. "It's a pleasure to meet you all. I'm Knight Commander Mauve Herring of the Order of the Blossoming Flower."

⌜ORDER OF THE BLOSSOMING FLOWER (HOLY KNIGHTS)

Name: Mauve Herring

Age: 33

Ability: Master Weapons Specialist

Occupation: Knight Commander

Likes: whistling Dislikes: electric blankets

Special Note: Mauve's opponents note she smiles during every battle she's had!⌟

Her companion was a shorter man, but that did not stop the intimation with tattoos on his bald head, no eyebrows, and his ears pierced with small gold hoops. The whites of his eyes were inked black, with his irises a vivid green. He had come in a billowy shirt with the same ceremonial broach and pants and bowed. "Good morning. I am Cinders, Knight-Captain of the Order of the Blossoming Flower."

⌜ORDER OF THE BLOSSOMING FLOWER (HOLY KNIGHTS)

Name: Cinders

Age: 37

Ability: Master Weapons Specialist

Occupation: Knight-Captain

Likes: pirate movies Dislikes: salt

Special Note: Cinders is a huge pirate fan and owns his own macaw who he loves dearly!⌟

Irina beamed. "Mauve and Cinders could be spared to come watch the duel today. What a wondrous opportunity."

Mauve smiled. "We look forward to it." She looked over at Ena. "When I heard the daughter of Dame Erza was participating in a duel with the young lord, I was more than happy to come." She told Ena directly, "You're an exceptional swordsman, Lady Ena. I always thought it was a tragedy your mother never wanted to join the ranks of the Holy Knights."

"She has her hands full running Fairy Tail," Ena excused. "A job she's justly proud about."

"I'm sure. Your guild has quite the reputation," Mauve tittered. "I hope to see how much of her runs through you today. You already have the makings of a Dame, but I hope you might consider the path of a Holy Knight."

Nora spoke, "Lady Ena will excel in any direction she chooses, and right now, she's excelling beautifully in the fashion industry."

"Oh, yes, I know. I've gotten a few dresses and suits from your collections," Mauve let Ena know. "You have such creativity, Lady Ena. I'm sure your parents must be proud of you."

Ena tried not to let the twinge hit her of the reminder of her absent father. "They are, thank you. And thank you for supporting my work."

Irina clapped her hands. "Cinders, Mauve, if you'd like to join us for breakfast, we can certainly make enough room."

"We'd better get to the training grounds," Cinders remarked without apology. "We have to do an inspection before the Fioren Primate's arrival tomorrow to the grounds. But we'll finish before the duel starts." He looked at Nora and asked, "And I hear you're training to become a Holy Knight yourself?"

Irina jumped in, "Yes, he is! But the Marquis and I have decided to wait for Nora to become of age before he takes the exam to become a Holy Knight and serve Her Majesty and the Pope. Isn't that right, Nora?"

"Yes. I hope my skills today impress you," Nora said.

Mauve's smile widened. "We'll be watching the pair of you carefully. Hopefully, we can convince Lady Ena to come visit the training grounds in the summertime. Knighthood would agree with you." She tilted her head. "It's a shame your mother never took the path. But it's not too late for you. With your skills, you could easily become a Champion of the Church." Her eyes cracked to reveal star pupils and mauve eyes. "A Scarlet Angel."

Silver noticed when Tristan looked affected at the moniker.

Ena offered a pleasant hum. "Thank you, Dame Mauve. I'll take your words to heart."

Mauve nodded and excused her and Cinders from the sunroom.

"This duel is about to be even more exciting," Irina raved as she went back to her breakfast. "Nora, this is your opportunity to score a recommendation from one of the Holy Knights. It'll exempt you from one of the exams and give you better placement for Holy Knight consideration."

Nora locked his jaw. "Of course." He went back to his breakfast. If there is a quicker way to be recognized by the Holy Knights, then I'll need to impress them however I can. But…I know who will win in this battle. His vision blurred, but he held back his grunt of pain. I'll have to see if Erica can make more tea. I know Lady Ena already suspects something, but I have to duel. He smothered his groan into a cough and shielded himself with a few sips of his drink. I made a promise.

Nora glanced over to see Ena offering him a lingering look. And I intend to keep it.

°•°•°•°

Ena dressed behind a privacy screen with her dueling attire pressed and steamed, thanks to Silver. He sat on the bed, nervous, but he tried to keep himself busy as went on his work tablet to check through any emergency emails and overview of the night before summed up by the night supervisors. He blinked when he saw an email with a subject line about Caelum.

"Ena. You have an email about your business trip to Caelum—"

"Oh, give it here!"

Silver got up and handed it to her around the screen. "Are you sure it's okay I go with you?"

"You're my assistant. It's crucial you come with me." After a minute or two, Ena stuck out the tablet for Silver to retrieve. "Thank you for your water healing. I feel refreshed and ready for the duel." She sighed. "Though, the Holy Knights watching the duel presents a bit of a problem." She threw her bra onto the top of the screen.

Silver's throat went dry seeing it and he echoed in, "'A bit of a problem'?" He hid his face when underwear was next and squeaked, "I should wait outside—!"

"It poses a problem because I can't afford them to witness anything happen should something happen," Ena relayed, oblivious to his distress. "Nora has made it clear he's bringing an equally interesting sword to the duel. I don't want the Holy Knights to witness something happen. It could give them incentive to recruit me. Unlike when a Holy Mother or Holy Sister recruits an Enchanter, knightly recruitment is a tad more…aggressive."

Silver gulped and tried to get a hold of himself. It's just clothing. It's just clothing. "What do you mean 'aggressive'?"

"Persistent," Ena compared. "Convents can't touch Mages, and neither can Holy Knights, but because Holy Knights also serve Her Majesty as part of the royal military, they can get away with public tactics in recruiting potentials such as school lectures or individual approaches, but it's about syntax."

"'Syntax'?"

Ena peeped from behind the folding screen to give him a flat look. "I forgot. I'm speaking to an idiot."

It's a valid question! Silver cried.

Ena rolled her eyes and disappeared behind the screen. "What I mean is that the Holy Knights who come to do public speeches or in-person recruitments have to be careful with their words. According to their recruitment rules, they can't bring up the Holy Eye. If the one being recruited mentions it, they're allowed to give information. That's not to say Holy Knights don't try to manipulate the conversation so the Holy Eye is talked about, but it is what it is."

"I see…" Silver understood—partially. "But couldn't it be taken as harassment if you reject their offer constantly and they still come back?"

"It can. And they're well-aware of my mother's position and mine. But I know that won't stop them from poking and prodding."

Silver hummed. "I never knew your mom was a knighted." His brow furrowed. "Or maybe I just forgot…"

"She was knighted before we were born," Ena explained. "It contributes a lot to why she's busy. There are a lot of strings that come with being a Dame, especially with her caliber. I heard rumors that if Mystogan became a Sorcerer, he'd be knighted into the OFE—Order of the Fioren Empire. It's given to people who contributed to arts and humanities, and Mystogan's theoretical research has done a lot."

"Wow." Silver hated he was impressed, but it did sound remarkable. "Your family is incredible. It would make sense you'd be a Dame one day too."

Ena sighed as she moved around and the sounds of fabric on skin took up space. "It's a blessing and a curse. As of now, I'd turn it down. I'd rather not follow the path of mindless politics. But the world would change and maybe I decide it's a blessing."

She really is just…so amazing, Silver thought. Until her, I never really paid attention to politics and stuff like that. It's funny. Julia and Gary would always follow it, but I never thought why I should have to. But after being with Ena… I have to know what's happening around the world, especially with the craziness of the Faction, and the Anti-Magic Movement, and now this. But Ena's been doing this for so long. She's sharp and cunning—a shark in the water. A bit of pride made his chest puff. She could take over the world one day. And I'd be ready to help her.

Ena came out to show part of her dueling outfit. She had chosen high-rise button riding pants that were easy to breathe in with a pair of over-the-knee riding boots that would serve her well for every quick movement. Her white bishop-sleeve shirt had an athletic underlayer tucked into her pants, and she dressed her hair in a warrior's braid, intricate and defining. Her scarlet tailcoat had come with a one-shouldered cap that could be ripped off if necessary, and she had her belt ready to behold Lunagr'an and its sheathe.

Silver's eyes sparkled. Wow… "Can I ask why you didn't just use Requip to put it on? Wouldn't it be easier?"

"It would." Ena fixed her cuffs. "But as this duel is not a Magic Duel, I'd prefer to do everything by hand out of respect for my opponent." She stood before him. "How do I look?"

Silver could not help but blurt, "Gorgeous."

"And that's the right answer." Ena walked over to her tri-fold mirror and checked over herself. "The duel isn't for some time. I wanted to put everything on and meditate for a bit."

Silver shot up. "I'll make your herbal tea." He winced when he thought about his offer. I'll need some lemon. But that should be easy enough. They said I can use the servant's passageways. It should be easy enough to find the kitchen.

"I'd be grateful for that, thank you," Ena appreciated as she unbuttoned her tailcoat.

Silver nodded and headed out of her room to go straight into his. He blushed a little when he realized how his bed looked like no one had touched it—since no one had been in it. I wonder if she'd let me cuddle with her again. I didn't have any of those dreams last night. And it felt…really nice to lie with her. He opened the door to the servant's passageway. The hall was a dark gray of stone, but the vinyl tile looked to be well kept.

Silver closed the door behind him as he ducked into the narrow network and started his journey with his mind stuck on Ena. I can't believe last year…we were enemies. And I said things that definitely crossed a line. A moment of self-loathing for his harsh words. But now… I get why Lulu kept telling me Ena was a lot more than I gave her credit for. I've never had anyone take care of me like that. She's harsh and stern, but she's soft and sweet when we're alone. She can be stubborn and a little bossy, but…it's what makes her…her.

He gave himself a shy smile. I really want to impress her at the Inter-Guild Training Camp. Maybe if she sees I'm strong too then… He sighed. Then what? Nothing. That's what. He shook off his creeping sadness for resolve. Either way, I want to impress her. I want her to notice me too. Maybe I could ask Julia if she could train me. I never see her use her Magic anymore, but I'm sure she just trains in private. I'd ask Mom, but I have a feeling I'll know how it'll play out…

"Juvia's sweet prince wants to his princess!" He could imagine his mother nearly drowning him—literally—in her happiness. "Juvia will make sure Silver can impress his sweet princess! Oh, Juvia is so excited! Silver will impress his princess and they'll fall in love and—oh! Juvia should ask Mira for ideas about weddings—!"

RIP!

Silver ripped up that fantasy as he buried his flushed face into his hand. Mom would just get too sidetracked. And only Dad knows how to reign her in. And Gary gets just as excited as her. He reluctantly remembered his brother's short stay home with a hug that nearly killed him.

"This is so amazing! My little brother is in love!" Gary had crooned while Silver had flailed in his arms, trying to breathe, Gary, you're killing me. "This reminds me of when I fell in love with Angel all over again this morning! She's so beautiful and amazing! And she…!"

And he'd go on about Nashi for hours if I'd let him. Silver violently shook his head. "Ugh. Why can't I have normal family members?" he lamented. Aunt Levy gets just as bad. She'll break out the romance books and give me all this love research. And Uncle Gajeel… He shivered at the trauma. I don't think I've even heard about all the perverted things he talks about. He sighed. I could ask Gale for advice on how to impress Ena and Julia hypothetically, but…

"Why are you asking me?" Fantasy-Julia looked at him with squinted eyes and a furrowed brow. "I'm not your in-between. Don't be a pussy and just fess up. Easy." She shooed him away. "Now leave me alone and don't talk to me."

"She's right, y'know." Fantasy-Gale agreed all tough and intimidating in Silver's imagination with shark teeth. "Don't be such fucking wimp, Fullbuster! If you pussy out, she'll laugh at you and run off with a new man!" And for some reason, he cackled with dramatic lighting and—why was he stealing Lulu away? And oh my god he had some crazy electric guitar and Luna had fainted as he hauled her away—

Silver sweatdropped. I need a better imagination. Then again, Gale can be scary… He shoved aside Fantasy-Gale, who looked like a cross between a death metal rocker, a vampire, and some dramatic villain from a horror movie. But not that scary! He slapped his cheeks. Focus! I can do this! I'll show Ena I can be just as impressive!

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Five minutes later…

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Silver stopped in the narrow hall, dazed out of his mind. This place is like a labyrinth. I don't know where I am or when I am. He kept up his trek with a puff of breath. I'm sure Ena's wondering why I'm not back yet. She'll probably be upset with me."

"Silver…" His imagination took him to a black and white bedroom with Fantasy-Ena waiting for him with her lips plump and inviting as a sheer dress fell loose and barely passed her rear. That scarlet hair was down and swung across a shoulder as she held a riding crop in one hand. "You made me wait for you," she purred kittenishly. "So naughty… So bad… Come here so your mistress can…punish you."

This is a little too mature! Silver frantically waved away the fantasy. I should be in jail for being a pervert. Thank the gods Ena doesn't have Telepathy. If she knew all the thoughts in my head… He rubbed his neck. She'd disembowel me. No, she'd turn me into a pig and disembowel me.

"…Mother she'll be able to meet her. I swear it."

Silver's ears pricked. What was…?

"Mother Clarion will be pleased," came an unfamiliar masculine voice. "The Magic Council wrongfully claimed such a beautiful soul. We'll be relieved to have her where she belongs."

Silver's brow knitted together. That voice… He tried to follow the source.

"But High Brother, she is a Mage with a powerful mother. She's sharp and witty. I'm not sure how you'll be able to convince her to follow the right path."

That sounds like the Marchioness. Silver saw a door that hosted the sources of the voices and crept silently to look through the keyhole. It felt his vision sharpen to improve the limitations he had and could make out the back of Irina as she addressed her visitor. Who is that with her?

"There's no need to worry, Sister Irina," came smooth assurance from this elusive guest. "Mother's will shall be done. It's written in our rites. Mother Clarion will convince the Enchantress to see she should walk alongside Mother."

'Enchantress?' Silver hardened. Ena. They're talking about Ena.

A pause before High Brother questioned, "And you're certain to pair her with Lord Nora? It would be best to let the Enchantress settle in the convent before we offer her the pick of knights."

"Nora will serve the Holy Knights well," Irina promised. "It's his sole aspiration. And with them being the same age with the same interests, getting them close enough will be easy. And once I sign my contract with her, maintaining their relationship will be simple enough. Holy Mother and the Fioren Primate will have their High Enchant and Champion, I promise."

Silver ground his teeth. So it really was her game to play matchmaker Ena and Nora for the Holy Eye. But it still doesn't make sense. Why does the Holy Eye need Enchanters in the first place?

"What about the servant-boy the Enchantress brought with her?" High Brother inquired. "You told me he's a competent Mage. He won't present a problem?"

"Not at all," Irina was quick to assure. "He's just a servant."

"Yes, but he comes from a well-known parentage," High Brother reminded in that smooth voice of his. "If he presents a problem, we have to eject him immediately. He's a registered Mage from Fairy Tail. We can't afford any more questions from the Magic Council thanks to your incompetence, Sister Irina. Remember that."

Irina winced. "Of course, High Brother." She moved.

Silver got a look at the High Brother, but it was not a great one. High Brother cloaked himself with his hood pulled to shadow his face, but Silver could note the dimple on the right side as the only noticeable feature. That's this 'High Brother'. He must be from the Holy Eye too. He clenched his hand. I feel so useless. I don't know what a 'High Brother' is. But he's an enemy too.

It sounded like something was being poured as Irina said, "I couldn't believe the luck we got to meet the Enchantress. She looks exactly like the Scarlet Angel Holy Mother told me about." Irina shifted back in front of High Brother. "Will you be at the duel today, High Brother? We have two Holy Knights supervising."

"I'll watch from a distance," High Brother said, "but I'll have to return to the convent soon enough. I hope you'll bring Lord Nora to the convent for a visit."

Irina laughed. "Of course. He hasn't been there since he was a baby."

Silver tuned out of the mindless small talk with his head racing. Ena's in more danger than I thought. This duel… This estate… Everyone is out to get her. I can't let that happen. She may have her sword, but… He stood up, determined. I'm her shield. I can't—!

His thought was cut off the second someone pounced on him. He summoned his Magic to his aid when—

SNAP!

A panic instilled in Silver when he could not feel his Magic. He toppled over when his assault twisted his arm to cuff his other wrist and slammed him to the ground, cheek to the floor. He grunted, woozy and terrified, as a weight pressured on his spine, but he gritted, "Let – me – go!"

HEEL-CLICK. HEEL-CLICK.

"I'm afraid we can't do that, Silver Fullbuster."

Silver flicked his eyes up to see Trinity had exited from the servant's door to look down upon him with those judgmental eyes and her tablet tucked under her hand. She told him, "You're like me. We're loyal to our masters. We have to make sure they can keep moving forward. But you're just a child who doesn't understand."

"Let me—Mmmph!" Silver choked when his mouth was gagged, and drool fell from the corner of his mouth. Roughly, with his hands cuffed behind his back, a rough hand scrounged his hair and dragged him up in such a painful motion. But those blues combatted fear for hatred as Trinity stared at him.

"As you are a registered Mage impeding upon the Holy Eye, you are in a precarious position of being charged with treason, little boy," Trinity told him. "The Marchioness told me to dispose of anything or anyone who could bring Lady Ena disturbance or distress. And children like you only know how to run your mouths."

Silver jerked his head, snarling, but he could not say a thing.

Trinity commanded, "Take him to the basement cells and keep him there until the Marchioness can visit him." She leaned forward to stare into those glaring blues. "We've indulged this child enough. Lady Ena is no longer his responsibility." A flicker of cruel satisfaction entered her eyes as she purred, "Lord Nora will take care of her."

Silver tried to scream when he was dragged away and kicked. No! Ena! No! But his snarling and wriggling proved for naught when they stopped dragging him and two painful punches made the hall spin and his nose bleed. He would have shaken it off, but a kick to his stomach knocked the breath out of him and a slam to the ground had him seeing stars. Black flooded the edges of his vision.

Ena… No… Gotta…stay awake… Protect her… But Silver could feel himself slipping as much as he wanted to stay awake. They unceremoniously yanked his upper body as they dragged him away, but as the world blurred, he saw the High Brother had come to the hall to watch him go. Ena… You have to…run…

The High Brother smirked, and his hand shifted to show a glinting ring.

Silver tried hard to scramble for a last thought as his consciousness faded away. Ena, I…love… But he dropped into darkness before he could finish his thought.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

And then…

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

The dueling grounds culminated quite the crowd, but that was the doing of the Marchioness. She had invited estate knights and lucky workers to watch such a duel occur. This was to be the battle of a lifetime. They had decided to put the duel closer to the woods that separated the main estate from the annexed estate further into the property. Mauve and Cinders sat beside Irina as they politely chattered amongst each other.

Ena paced alongside the entryway and kept casting looks to the door. Where is he? I thought he was making tea, but he vanished. Worry filled her. Did he get lost? This is a sizable estate. Is he hurt? She willed for the doors to open. We had planned for him to be my second. He was to walk behind me when I made my entrance. She swallowed, but she could not rid her fretting. I should postpone the duel. I need to find him and make sure he's okay.

Her mind was made. I'll go—

The door opened, but much to her disappointment, Enid had emerged in her ceremony seneschal suit with her and bowed. "My Lady. I hope you're ready for the duel."

"Actually, Enid, I request the duel to be postponed post-haste," Ena instructed, trying to tamp down how flustered she felt. "My attendant is missing, and I require his presence. I must find him before I cross swords."

Enid smiled. "There's no need for that, My Lady. I came here on his behalf. Your attendant took quite the spill, so we took him to the estate physician. He'll come along once the physician clears him."

"Are his injuries great?" Ena demanded to know. "I should go to him—"

"Fear not, My Lady," Enid calmed. "The physician diagnosed a sprained ankle as the worst case. Your attendant was adamant to return to you, but it was best he rests his ankle. He agreed to allow me to take the place as your second." She bowed again. "If that pleases you, My Lady."

Ena tried not to show her puzzled concern. He sprained his ankle? Yes, it would be best for him to rest. And I'm sure he put up a fight, but I would've tied him down to a bed to rest had he limped all the way here. His loyalty to me is more than I could ask for. She sighed. I suppose I can visit him after the duel, the fool. "Very well, Enid, your presence will serve nicely as my second."

"I am most grateful for such a high honor," Enid appreciated, sincere. "We shall wait for the horns and the announcement before your entry. I shall follow your lead, My Lady."

Ena nodded and looked out to the grounds with a hand clasping Lunagr'an's hilt, her blade hidden in her sheathe. I can't worry about Silver now. I'll fuss over him later. Now is not the time for distractions. She closed her eyes. Deep inhale. Deep exhale. I've come here today because an opponent challenged me for a duel. Lunagr'an. Are you ready to fight?

The hilt warmed in excitement.

The horns gave their heroic fanfare.

The announcer cried: "Presenting the official duel between Lord Nora Gosling the Second and Lady Ena Fernande!" Applause was given ten seconds to thrive before the announcer went on: "First, presenting the Challenged—Lady Ena!"

Ena opened her eyes. For the honor of Magnolia. She stepped out from the archway with her chin high, shoulders back, and spine straight. The eyes on her were harmless to her confidence nor did she pay any mind to Irina or the Holy Knights. She came within the circle with Enid staying behind. For the honor of my home.

"And presenting the Challenger—Lord Nora!"

Ena tipped her chin down as Nora came out to stand twenty paces away in his dueling regalia. He had mimicked her with his one-shouldered cape and tailcoat, but he had themed his ceremonial attire in blacks and blues. Tristan served as his second dressed in a prestigious suit and observant eyes.

Ena felt Lunagr'an vibrate. For the honor of my friends.

The announcer continued: "These rules have been set for the duel. The first to agree they yield shall not be the victory. There shall be an avoidance to bloodshed. And they have set the boundaries to encompass the entire property. Challenger and Challenged may only use the swords they have brought. Wizardry and outside assistance will not be permitted. They have asked the prize of victory to be kept private. Challenger and Challenged—are these terms accepted?"

"Aye," Ena said. "I accept."

"Aye," Nora echoed. "I accept as well."

"As the Challenged has agreed to a challenge off her home territory, the Challenged is permitted a thirty-second advantage in which the Challenged may reposition themselves throughout the property. Will the Challenged accept this term?"

"I do not," Ena said. For the honor of my family.

The announcer went on: "The Challenged has rejected the term. As such, Challenged and Challengers, please meet in the middle to shake hands and exchange your final words."

Ena and Nora walked towards each other, but Lunagr'an shook in its sheathe. The lord and lady did not shake hands, but they gripped arms as knights would do once they shared their brotherhood. "Lord" and "Lady" did not exist in a duel. Honor and respect did.

Ena could see a strain on Nora's face. He's sick. But saying this now in front of Holy Knights would bring him immense dishonor nor can I offer him a handicap. I don't like it, but I'll have to give my all. "Ready to share the name of your sword?"

"You'll know the second she's unsheathed." Nora's eyes flickered to Enid. "Your attendant?"

"He's preoccupied." Ena kept her answer guarded. "But he'll be sorry he missed my victory. I have no intentions to lose to you even in your…state."

Nora's eyes flashed, but his lips twitched. "Always perceptive," he supposed. "Regardless of my state, I have no intentions to lose you."

"Because you truly wish to spar with me or because you have Holy Knights to impress?" Ena challenged.

Nora gave her an unreadable stare for a few seconds before he whispered, "I look forward to our ride together. Our conversation will be well-needed."

"Aye." Ena's eyes hardened. "It better be."

They released each other.

The announcer called, "Challenged and Challenger, give each other your backs."

Both did so.

"Walk ten paces."

They started their walk.

Ena kept her frown undefined. For the honor of my mother.

Both stopped.

The announcer said, "Challenged and Challenger, hands on your hilts."

Ena could feel Lunagr'an's energy course through her. And…

"And…draw!"

Ena pulled Lunagr'an from its sheathe to see her blade gleam and sing. For the honor of…! She whirled around, blade at the ready—

LUB-DUB.

Dark chocolates widened. What…?

Nora had drawn a black blade that was the opposite of Lunagr'an in every way. But Ena could feel an eagerness from this blade that covered their anger and despair. The blade had been wronged and it should be violent and bloodthirsty, but it sang to her the same way Lunagr'an sung to her upon their first meeting.

LUB-DUB.

Nora did not move. He watched her. He waited. But his words hit her in a hypnotic command. "Tell me what my sword's name is."

LUB-DUB.

It was so instinctive that it hurt. Ena could not help it as she looked at this beautiful monster of a black sword that had been maltreated with wrongful hands and abusive handlers and sung its song for her as though hopeful she could reclaim it and allow it to prove its worth. And she heard it the same way Lunagr'an had introduced itself to her. It spoke to her. And Ena could not refuse the command.

"The Black Sun Sword," she whispered. "She's named…Soledia."

And the sunstone gemstone on the black sword gleamed.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

A silence befell the grounds.

Everyone held their breath.

Mauve cocked her head with her pleasant smile with no teeth. She feels it. That's good. Her eyes cracked to reveal those star-shaped pupils. What a gift to see her in person—that Scarlet Angel.

Ena did not understand as she gripped Lunagr'an. But… How? Why? The sword, it's… She's calling for me. Her face hardened, and she growled, "What trickery is this?"

"No tricks," Nora affirmed. "You're right. Her name is Soledia. And like your blade, she's very special."

Ena's hackles rose. "I don't believe you!" She rushed first with Lunagr'an glinting in her hands and her moonstone on her hilt bright and ready.

Nora lifted his sword—

CLANG!

The two swords crossed as their owners pressed against each other.

"Where did you get that sword?" Ena gnashed.

"It was a gift—"

"Liar!" Ena pressed harder and hissed, "She's in pain. I can feel it. She was no gift. She was a conquest." Fury filled her eyes. "What did you do to her?"

Nora pressed back, but Ena's raw strength without her Magic proved difficult to match. "I did nothing. Listen to her," he hissed quietly. "The Marquis gifted it me, but she was violent." He found himself losing ground. Ena's wrath could not be stopped and only endured. "They said it was a Cursed Sword. And every time I tried to hold her, she rejected me and made my hands bleed until I found you."

"Liar!"

Ena shoved him back before sweeping into her next attack. Nora dodged with his blade to his defense, but Ena snarled and tried her hand again. Nora combatted her, and they were stuck with their swords at each other's throats.

"I'm not lying to you," Nora insisted.

"Then why is she calling to me?" Ena spat. "Why is she crying for me to hold her? Don't lie to me. I can feel your sword just like I can feel mine. You stole her. You abused her!" She spat on the ground. "How dare you challenge me and bring me a sword in so much agony! How dare you!" She pushed away from him to ready herself for her next attack.

Nora quickly tried to explain, "Ena, please, if you listen—"

"No! You listen! Listen to how much your blade is in pain being in your hands! She's crying and asking me to save her from you!" Ena sneered. "I won't let her suffer under you. I claim my right to claim your sword upon your defeat." She wielded Lunagr'an and fed into her blade's pain for its opponent. "You bastard!" She raised her sword. "You pig!"

Many would tell you that Titania of Fairy Tail was best to fight when she was relaxed and docile. She would push you, press you, challenge you—but it was in good spirits. At the end of the fight, she would compliment you with your strengths and remind you of your weakness with a smile with no teeth and kind eyes. But the wrath of Titania was one seldom anyone could endure. You would remember that scarlet hair and her fury for days to come. Her teeth were in her blades, and she would make sure to leave scars for you to lick so you would remember who you crossed.

And her daughter retained that same reputation.

Ena's wrath had precision. That alone took discipline to maintain. Wrath and restraint never went hand in hand in combat. Wrath drove fighters to instinct, a sloppy fallback. If love gave a person rose-tinted glasses, wrath offered you blood-red sunglasses. You could only think in turns of kill, kill, kill. Blood would be spilled indefinitely because that thirst that wrath incurred would not be quenched without seeing that red splattered and pounds of flesh.

To have restraint within wrath was a lesson even the best of them could not maintain. It meant your wrath had to be chained and productive. You shoved back compulsion for contemplation. You tamed your wrath to cycle into boosts of energy to guide practiced technique.

"Ha! Ha!"

Nora might have trained with knights, but the best of the best trained Ena. The honor and glory of the sword were her lifeblood and blood-right. Her offense was too overpowering for Nora to give a successful counterattack. He could only shield himself from her blade with his own. But Ena did not give up, and he could feel the heat of her venomous fury.

His hands burned.

Nora tried to bite back the pain as nausea coiled in his stomach when he felt the lashes of his blade and that staggering rejection. He reminded weakly, I gave my word. You have to keep yours. To his relief, the stinging anger Soledia whipped into his hand for holding her hilt faded as she fell into reluctant compliance.

CLANG!

I'm losing ground. Her strength is overwhelming. Nora glanced at his mother and the observant Holy Knights. But I can't explain anything to her here. Not with them watching. I need the advantage of distance. He spun out, but before Ena could lunge, he gunned for the forest.

"Coward!" Ena howled after him. "Spineless! Abuser!"

Nora panted as he dashed into the trees. His vision blurred, and he stumbled into a tree to lean on it for support, but he forced himself upright and kept running. It's hitting my system the more I strain myself. I'm guessing this is what the poison would've done to her during our duel. It was meant to slow her down. But why? He could not run. He could feel his knees were weakening and black spots splashed his eyes. Not…yet…

CRASH-CRASH-CRASH!

Nora whirled around just in time to parry Ena's attack. Their battle picked up with quick movements and quicker breaths with their swords clashing at every opportunity, the sun and the moon.

"You don't deserve that sword!" Ena snarled at him. "How dare you—!"

"I know I don't," Nora was quick to tell her. "Ena, I know this sword was never mine—"

Ena pressed against his blade to hiss, "Good. Then you'll feel relief when I take it from your bleeding hands." She leaped back, reset, and was back to her rabid attack.

There was a difference in loss when it came to sparring and a duel. Duels were meant for one winner to stagger away from the circle while the loser took his last breath, or the doctor was close enough to perform emergency care. Sparring spoke of wooden swords and the move to yield. But this duel required minimum bloodshed and admittance of defeat.

Considering Ena's fury, Nora felt lucky this was not a traditional duel.

Elegantly aggressive—an oxymoron that suited Ena and her trusted blade. She cut his cape as a reminder of this is what I could do to you if I had no honor. Her deadly blows proved hard to predict and harder to dodge. Defense and distance saved Nora from horrifying blows that would leave a scar. Most fights had a trade-off—speed or strength. You had both, but one took precedence over the other. A swordsman had to be equal in both, and Ena was at her peak. She was an apex swordsman.

A shark who smelled blood in the water.

CLANG!

The sun and moon butted heads.

Nora had been backed into a tree with his eyes heavy but resolved as he held up his sword to stop Ena's blow from landing. He persisted, "Ena, listen to me. Listen to the sword. You can hear she's in pain? Then listen to her. She'll tell you the truth—"

"That you abused her!" Ena yanked up her swords, but it swiped back. She choked when Nora crashed her backward, but she could not dish an attack when he hurried away from her and got out of range. She spun Lunagr'an with her leer and her violent anger. "What did you do? Why did you bring me here? To confess? To seek retribution? Because I'll happily give you the retribution you desire."

Nora could feel black try to edge his vision and his lungs burned. Not…yet… Stay…awake… "My intentions to duel you were good, I swear to you," he breathlessly vowed. "I've admired your strength, your cunning, and your courage for a long time." He clenched his jaw. "But…there's more than meets the eye that's happening here."

"Oh, I see everything crystal clear," Ena thundered. "You aren't worthy to hold a sword, you spineless ingrate." She spat again. "But I'll win this challenge with honor you don't have." Her muscles coiled. "And that sword"—she flashed forward with her blade ready—"will be free from you!"

"Ena—!"

CLANG!

Sparks flew as Nora and Ena went blade to blade, sun and moon, prey to predator. A silvery-white glowed upon Lunagr'an in response to her master's pure anger and the blade sharpened without the need of anyone else to try its hand at cutting the opponent before it. A pressure seeped through Ena, spiritual and deep, but she could only focus on the young lord before her.

I should've known this was a farce. Using a sword…abusing it… Disgusting! That pressure built within her chest. He was never an ally! Silver was right! A gleam of Magic danced in her eyes. He's my enemy!

Nora grunted as his throat contracted. He could feel the pain lick up his legs and spine, but he pressed down on rolling nausea and throbbing pain in his head. Weakly, he pleaded, Show her. Please. And I'll do what you say.

The sunstone flickered.

Ena snarled as she poured her strength into her arms. I'll strip him of his honor! He's no swordsman! He's a—

• — • — •

Shattered.

She was shattered.

Parts of her felt connected, but she could feel that she had been split, and the pain was excruciating. She trembled, wailing, begging to be put back together, begging for her fallen lady to save her, but she had shattered and could not reach her other half—

• — • — •

A moment of bewilderment crossed through Ena's ire. What…? What was that? She looked at Nora's sword and eyed the sunstone on the hilt. Was that…a memory? The sword… She was trying to…tell me something?

Ena sprung back, but she did not rush to help Nora when his knee crumbled, and he fell back against a tree. He coughed and could not hold it back. Turning for the illusion of privacy, he vomited his breakfast and tea in short spurts and coughs. It took him a few moments to get himself together. He spat onto the grass and wiped his mouth, but his eyes fluttered.

Ena had little room for sympathy. "What did I see?"

Nora offered a watery exhale. "She's…showing you…" He coughed. A layer of sweat had glinted off his skin and he could not force open his eyes. "I… I meant what I said…" He offered her the sword. "Please… Listen to…" He broke into a coughing fit as the sword dropped from his hand.

Ena looked down at Soledia, masking her burning curiosity. But when Lunagr'an vibrated as though nudging her, she knelt. She could feel the trembling excitement from the black sword. She felt its longing to feel her grip and her eagerness to please, but Ena was not so trusting. She kept Lunagr'an ready to fight as her free hand hovered over Soledia's hilt. Did he do this to you?

For a moment, there was silence. But the sunstone flashed.

No.

Ena sheathed Lunagr'an. He's innocent. But it's obvious she's been abused. She reached for the hilt. She had a rough life. Her blade is black, but… It shouldn't be. Before she could touch the blade, Nora's coughing broke her from the spell. Room for worry was made, and she attended to him to help him sit down against the tree and keep his head elevated.

"I'm sorry," Ena told him. "I was blinded by my anger—"

"No—" Nora broke into another cough before his head fell against the tree. He looked at her with eyes half-mast and a vague smile on his face. "Seeing how passionate you were to protect it… It makes me happy…" A wet cough.

Ena took off her glove to feel his forehead. "You have a fever. I'm guessing this is a symptom from my dinner last night." She looked at him in a mixture of confusion and respect. "Why did you swap your plate with me when that poison was for me?"

"Y-You are my guest," Nora heaved. "I-I can…handle it." His teeth chattered.

A fever and sweat, but he's feeling like he's freezing. His metabolism is shot and so are his nerves. Ena clenched her jaw. I could send up a Magic Flare; however, I know how it would look. I'll have to carry him back. And I drove him out a great distance since I let my anger guide me.

"Ena…"

To her surprise, Nora had laid his hand on her cheek with sweat dripping from his temple as he took labored breaths. He looked considerably paler and gaunt, but those grayed yellows were not giving up.

"Thank you for coming," Nora breathed to her. "F-For a long time…I've admired you… I wish I could've…shown you my skills…"

Ena shook her head. "Never mind that. We can have another duel another day, but we need to get you to a doctor." She glanced at the black sword who longed for her touch, but a hesitance made her unsure. "Can you sheathe your sword?"

Nora did not fight her. "Yes."

Ena helped him get to his sword and felt bad he winced. It was obvious the sword was lashing out at him for holding her. But he shakily put the blade back in its sheathe. It was then Ena noticed blood dripping out of his glove. "Your hand…"

"It's wh-wh-why she was called the 'Cursed Sword'," Nora panted. "Sh-She would…hurt anyone who touched her…" He offered her a meaningful look. "She was waiting for her rightful master—" He lurched as he vomited again.

Ena held him stay up and rubbed his back with concern gnawing at her. He's too weak. Moving him now might make him worse. I'll have to send up a Magic Flare and ask for vindication later. He's more important. She felt her Magic in her palm and looked up—

Those browns clashed with a grenade.

BOOM!

The forest turned into a dial tone as light burned Ena's eyes so badly that she grunted. But in the coming seconds, she was not left to recover. She felt a thick mist waved over her on her inhale and was left to cough as her eyes shed tears. She waved a hand to make an air bubble mask, but her vision had yet to return while her hearing shifted. She could see in turns of opaque shadows and outlines through the gas while her ears caught muffled shifts and steps.

This was a set-up? But who—?

Lunagr'an warned her, and Ena ripped her from her sheathe with a hack. Something breezed past her ear, nicked it, but her blade had countered another strike against her. She blinked, trying hard to get her vision to recover faster.

A gas bomb and a flash-bang grenade. It should take me another minute until my eyesight returns to normal and my hearing. Ena gripped her blade. But the enemy won't wait. And I have to protect Nora. A sharp realization hit her. Was this their plan? Turn Nora's weakness into my own? Protecting him means I'm stationary. They have the advantage. But they might not know—she closed her eyes—that I learned how to fight without my sight.

The attacks came quick, and her body pivoted. She used brute force to counter and feel her opponent's strength, speed, and size. Once she had a good mental image, Lunagr'an took control to pierce thighs and slice sides. She knew she had stabbed clear through a hand with no remorse. There was no time for pity. She had someone to protect with disadvantages at every turn.

Her hearing came back in rapid succession, but her opponents were smart enough to keep their movements light. They knew that her vision would return, and they still needed an edge. But she heard the shifts of fabrics as they geared for an attack. No defense. Offense against offense.

They're using martial arts rather than guns. I'm sure what hit me was an arrow. Quiet methods of fighting. Smart. However— Ena whirled around to grab the arm that had reached for her back and violently twisted her when bones snapped. It's clear they are indulging me. Are they hoping to push me into a Requip or is this a means to exhaust me?

A fierce blow came to Ena's side that had her stagger with quick jabs to her stomach, but she stomped back with a punch to the jaw. Her eyes cracked open. She could see the gas was strong in the air. Her vision was weak, but it had come in color. A shadow forced itself to her, and her eyes opened to give them the butt of her sword when arms circled her waist. She wriggled with her sword sizing down into a dagger to stab one of the arms, but she did not expect her scalp to be yanked. Fear combed through her as she twisted her dagger—

SNAP!

Ena screamed when her wrist was snapped, and her dagger dropped from her hand. But her assailants were not finished. Raw panic gutted her when their gloved hands took out a knife and went for her clothes, but she would not beg. She snarled and clawed like a furious lioness, but her assailants had her down. They cut her jacket sleeve off to expose her arm, and a band came around it. For a moment, a wave of confusion hit her until her assailant pulled out a needle.

And there was a black liquid inside.

Ena hissed and spat, but they kept her arm down as they shoved the needle into her vein and the injection roughly projected. They tore it out and backed away before the one holding Ena hostage dropped her. She fell to her knees and could feel a barely conscious Nora was beside her. She growled and wanted to give them retribution, but her head throbbed, and a weakness flooded her body.

LUB-DUB.

Her heart hurt, and she could not sustain herself as she cradled her wrist to her chest. Her bubble mask popped before she had a say and another lungful of the gas came into her mouth. She held her breath, murder and tears in her eyes, but that weakness dizzied her, and a lead-like weight burrowed in her blood. "You won't get away with this," she hissed. She tried to stand, but she toppled over with part of her on Nora's side.

Nora was scarcely breathing. "Ena… Run…"

"I don't leave a man behind," Ena snapped at him, though her mouth felt like cotton infested it. A secondary fear hit her when she tried to summon her Magic to draw up a flare, but her connection to it was waning. My powers… They're fading it…

SLAM!

Ena's eyes went wide as she choked from the kick to her stomach. She curled into a ball and protected her neck wither her good hand as her thighs took the next kick. She refused to scream when her scalp was pulled, and someone dragged her upwards, but the bite down on her bottom lip drew blood. They slammed her head into the grass, and all her dizziness swelled. She knew she had broken skin, and blood was dripping on the ground, but her powers did not surge upon her command.

What…is this…? I can't…feel my Magic…

Ena croaked, "N-N-Nora…" When she did not hear him, that wormy fretting forced her to rasp louder, "Nora—Ah!" She had not meant to cry out when her spine had been attacked with a harsh kick. She whispered venomously, "You'll regret that."

But her assailants were smart. They did not respond with their own mocks and goads. They kept quiet as they did their job. And it looked like their job was to beat her into unconsciousness or the injection would take her out. She closed her eyes and tried to ignore the metallic tang on her tongue as she took their beatings. Numb the pain. Breathe and numb.

BAKI-BAKI-BAKI!

Lungs on fire and her chest filled with lead, Ena felt a dreariness fall over her. She no longer had to recite her numbness. She felt numb. An iciness cocooned her. No one will save you. You're on your own…like always. Her mind flashed to a beaming Luna. L… I don't think I'll be home in time to give you your surprise. I'm sorry.

BAKI-BAKI-BAKI!

She remembered the warmth and familial love and support from Gianni. Gigi… Forgive me, but… I can't send you pictures of my dress for the ball.

BAKI-BAKI-BAKI!

She remembered her family. Her mother, who did the best she could while she was stretched so thin. Her brother, who had no time for her existence lest she be useful for a minute or two. And her sister, who had the world's attention. Mother… I'm sorry. I know you did everything you could. Blood drooled from her mouth. But now…you can all be happy. Mystogan has Aine. You never…needed a spare like me.

BAKI-BAKI-BAKI!

Adoring mayan blues.

Tears pressed against Ena's eyes. Silver… You'll be fine. I hope… Her jaw slackened as the agony spewed fire into her system and coerced her into a deep sleep from which she might not wake. I hope…you're happy with…the one you love… You…deserve it… In the wisps of her consciousness, she was shoved onto her back and could see her stomach was to be targeted. Thank you, Silver, she whispered, for being at my side…

The foot slammed down—

A weak whisper floated to Ena's ear. "I yield."

Sunstone glittered.

CLANG!

Ena saw below her falling lashes as white and black crossed each other before her as her final defense from a glow that would have cracked her ribs. She could see them glowing, fiercely determined to defend her, but it did not matter what happened next. She slowly blinked once, twice, thrice, until her eyes shut, and she could not feel the world around her.

• — • — •

The dream was blurred and muffled and made no sense, but she was trapped inside it. The bitter heat of war crossed her. A cold of grief maimed her. Sparse happiness that sent butterflies in her stomach filled her. A friendliness was there. Ah, this was a relationship. Trust was built before love had room to grow. A searing pain took her chest when she felt she was stripped and reattached, but it was not her alone. Another presence had tied to her chest. It felt just and loving and strong.

The dreams converged into a messy montage of emotions that were hard to sort, like a sticky web. But she pieced together what she would. She was trapped here. This was all she could do. She found one sticky thread that gave her the trials and tribulations of childbirth. Never did she think she would feel this sort of pain of feeling yourself split, the tears, the fear, how alone and exposed you were, but all of it faded for the bone-tired relief and joy of the deed being done. The next thread showed her a time of sensual love with a male that made her chest puff with pride.

Another thread weaved an odd tale. The emotions ebbed and flowed in a passionate fit. An argument. Perhaps this was an argument. Yes, it felt like an argument when she felt both presences were at the brink of a furious collapse with such raw passion for their cause. But the anger did not combust into flames that charred and scarred. The fire simmered. The truth must have come out. And then came the tears and the understanding and cocoon of warmth and reassurance.

As she pieced her way through the web, she enclosed on the enigmatic center. With one touch, she was blinded. Her vision had turned white, and her senses had forsaken her. She did not know where she was or when she was or why she was there.

But someone spoke, stunned. "I can feel her." A hoarse whisper full of such hope, but…it was not Minstrish. She understood every word, but she knew in her heart Minstrish was not being spoken. "Get the Guards! Her presence is before me! We have waited for this day! Get the…!"

Even without sight, she knew she had been displaced elsewhere. Somewhere far away, past the tides and the sea. Something was far away from her. She could tell it was outside of her boundaries, but there was no threat to this presence. They simply would not come close. But she could feel its prestige and dominance. She felt its grief. And she felt its love that it had been dying to share. Like it had been waiting for eons.

The voice was a dark and rumbling tone, but it had the musical lilt of paternal adoration mixed with such grief. "You cannot come to me. Not now. Not with death so close. I am sorry, my little one, but you must return past the tides." His voice echoed into her fading mind. "On my honor…we will meet again…as I have promised my savior to be yours."

She felt the sea. This was the first thing she felt. The rocking of tides and the saltiness of the ocean.

"Go." The voice carried so much sadness, as though he was reluctant to let her leave. "My debt will remain unpaid…till you are forever safe. He waits for you, my little one."

She sailed across the tides, drifting, drifting, drifting—

• — • — •

Rain.

Her skin felt rain.

Her eyes cracked shut, crusted with tears and exhaustion, but the rain pelted down on her as though washing away the blood. The gas could not sustain and cleared away at the downpour. Her blurriness caught Nora's unmoving body. And her faint senses could feel the worried thrum of both swords. What…happened…?

GORO-GORO!

Thunder ripped through the skies.

Ena felt her blink take an hour to complete. So tired… So tired… She registered, however, that her assailants were no longer hounding her for a pound of flesh. With great pain, she twisted her head to see what had happened to them. Her stomach had no room for horror to see both had their clothes clawed and burned with their flesh exposed and boiled, like they had been consumed in hot water. Neither moved, but their chests heaved. They were alive.

So tired… Can't…sleep…

STEP… STEP…

Ena let out a weak groan as her eyes looked up. The blurriness and black spots danced before her when she saw a masculine figure standing above her, hovering, waiting—a shark in the water. But that childish hope filtered through her.

Father… Have you…come for me? I've…been waiting…so long…

The silhouette was delicate with her at every turn. The moment she whimpered when he touched her spine, he stopped to exaggerate his slowness and let her body acclimate to his touch. He shuttled her into his arms. She knew she looked pathetic, weak—defeated. But that shame would come up at a later time. She tried to catch a glimpse of her savior, but her head felt heavy.

Thank you…for coming… I missed you so much…

A sound hit her ears. An intimate purr that played for her beaten soul. Her eyes drooped to the sound. She could relax. She could sleep.

I missed you… I missed you… I missed you…

Ena's exhale carried her whisper. "Silver…" That blackness was careful to take her down into its depths as though it knew it made a mistake with her violent taking. It guided her and took control of her sight, but it left a thread-bare sensation of such a gentle touch. The downpour melted away in her ears.

But a voice whispered to her, relieved and loving and feminine. A black sun that had found light once again. My Lady… Thank you for coming for me.

And all was lost.

---

— • — • — • —

sugu ni aitai noni aenai

kimi ni sotto chikazuite yuku

honto no koto kikutte kowai keredo

tashikame ni yuku yo

•

aitai noni aenai

hibi mo zutto kimi no tame ni waratta no

"arigatou" tte saigo datta tte

kaomisete baby

— • — • — • —

---

The forest had been cleared out with the drops from the thunderstorm clear as day and the grass wet. The creatures of the forest had scurried to hide as they sniffed the air for a telltale sign of another sudden storm, but some did not want to risk it. The skies normally gave them heed, but today, it did not. Mistrust was placed in the wind and sky.

Polished boots walked through the wet grass, taking their time, while another set of prim and proper loafers fell appropriately behind, nervous and unsure. But those boots stopped at the scene of the crime where sword markings had scored the neighboring trees. The rain had diluted the blood. Nature was a better cleaner than people gave her credit for.

"My Lord." The anxious squeak came from the man with the prim and proper loafers. He looked like a nervous wreck, even in his tailored suit and jacket and his adorable mop of auburn hair. Perhaps if he was not so nervous, others would recognize his beauty. But none would notice. "W-We should go back. It isn't safe for you out here. The knights will be coming to the forest any minute—"

"You never know how to let loose," came a sighing drawl. "No need to be nervous. We'll leave in just a moment." Those polished boots came closer so a gloved hand could feather one of the deep markings in the trees. "So. This is the power of the Enchantress."

He smirked to show his beauty mark as another gloved hand went for his chin. "How interesting. How powerful. And she even had the nerve to escape." His smirk broadened. "She has guts." With a glance around, there were a few strands of scarlet clumped together. Those polished boots moved, and a gloved hand picked it up. The red looked more vivid against his white glove.

"'With a scarlet mane, she will wield her swords of black and white and reclaim what was once lost in might'," came recitation. "And what of my dear little brother?"

The anxious assistant stammered, "H-H-He's been moved to his room with around-the-clock care, My Lord. N-No one is to disturb him."

An amused hum. "I'm sure he'll make an exception for me. We have so much to discuss before Father arrives." A gloved thumb stroked the strands of scarlet almost lovingly. "After all"—cunning yellows swirled in unmanaged mischief and mirth—"he did bring me such lovely entertainment."

---

Voices of Characters in Order of Appearance

— • — • — • —

Ena Fernandes – Xanthe Huynh

Silver Fullbuster – Yuri Lowenthal

Aine Fernandes - Carrie Keranen

Erza Fernandes - Colleen Clinkebeard

Nora Gosling II – Brad Swaile

Meg McMannin – Shara Kirby

Irina Gosling – Pamela Merrick

Tristan Lauderdale – Chris Burnett

Sylvie Gosling – Leah Clark

Mauve Herring – Shelby Lindley

Cinders – Brandon McInnis

Juvia Fullbuster – Brina Palencia

Gary Fullbuster – Griffin Burns

Julia Fullbuster – Michelle Ruff

Gale Redfox – Greg Cipes

Trinity Delacour – Rachel Lillis

High Brother – Joe Ochman

Enid Kensington – Christine Auten

Unknown Female Voice – Rachel Robinson

Unknown Male Voice – Phil Parsons

Soledia – Skyler McIntosh

Unknown Assistant – Stephen Fu

Atticus Gosling – Steve Cannon

• — • — •

Additional Voices

Opening Narrator – Mary McGlynn

Description Narrator – Mary McGlynn

Closing Narrator – Melissa Fahn

— • — • — • —

⌜OPENING SONG

⟪ HANDS ⟫

BLUE ENCOUNT

Lyrics by

Junichi Tanabe ⌟

•

⌜ENDING SONG

⟪ Long-Distance Train ⟫

Aoi Yamazaki

Lyrics by

Aoi Yamazaki⌟

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— • — • — • —

Next time, on Fairy Adventure

•

Episode 103

•

REVELATIONS

— • — • — • —

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TO BE CONTINUED…