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!

104. Adventure 104

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: After a pretty odd dream—or maybe a memory—Silver taps into his hidden power to save Ena from a horrible fate. Nora wakes up with Odette at his side for some sweet sister-brother bonding, but it looks like that's shot when big brother Atticus is home. Ena faults herself for Silver's distance, but to her surprise, Silver goes off on her about his worries and self-blame for her injuries. But Ena's quick to give Silver assurance and say those words he has been waiting to hear—I do need you. But they aren't the only ones bonding. Gale and Luna have a conversation about Gale seeing Luna's assault and mental health. They might not be ready for romance, but they're ready to learn how to love themselves again. And I feel like that's more important than anything.

'I'm gonna love you so hard, I'll ruin you for everyone else."

'But it feels like you already have.'

After all the chaos of the duel, it was nice to get a cool down with the bonds and revelations between friends. And, um, Silver? What Gale meant was you better watch yourself in the morning…

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The sky was clear with an exhausted sun as a Sky Boat passed by. A few birds chirped to each other as some picked out tuffs of fallen fur and feathers and moss for their nests. Melted snow spread through the grass, but the temperature predicted this week would more than likely melt the rest of the snow for good. The workers had set out to their tasks, but no vacuums were to be used past ten in the morning to avoid waking up a member of the Gosling family. The kitchens were abuzz to continue prep work for the reception ball, and Trinity and Irina worked with their event planner's management coordinator for the great hall.

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— • — • — • —

Savant Hall

Larkspur County

Fiore, Ishgar

7:21 AM FST

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• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Ena's snoring had calmed into the occasional and snort babble, but Silver was as quiet as a church mouse as he stirred. Tangled in each other, Ena laid on her side with some drooling hit her pillow as she slept with an open mouth while Silver had clung to her. He cracked open his eyes, yawning, but he blinked thrice until he felt more alert. The second he saw and felt Ena there, he closed his eyes and snuggled her.

This is nice, he thought. I know she's safe and okay. I don't think I ever imagined doing this with Paige, but… I see why Gale likes hogging Lulu all the time. It feels nice. He took a deep inhale of that sweet scent. And it smells nice.

Ena snorted like a motorboat and muttered something. She wriggled—apparently, her dream needed her to move—and shifted.

Silver sighed dreamily. This is—

His eyes sprung open when he jolted as Ena tried to get comfortable. No. Oh, no.

Ena's lip curled, and she sighed something unintelligible (it sounded like a vague insult towards someone) before her back arched—

Silver's eyes twitched, and he covered his mouth with a hand. No, no, no, no, no, this isn't happening, this isn't happening. His eyes fluttered, and he kept his eep! to himself when Ena twisted before thankfully, coming to a still and snoring again. Crap! This isn't good. He shivered as steam wafted off him with his face flushed when Ena shifted. His heart skipped a beat at the tingling. Why? Why me? If she wakes up, she's going to think I'm a total pervert!

"Remember, Fullbuster…" Fantasy-Gale circled around him with his face painted like he was a death metal rocker with his tongue sticking out and a cruel smirk on his face. "You never know what you might wake up to find with your girl in your arms!" He evilly cackled—

Silver shoved the imagery away amid his panic and anxiety. Why is my body the way it is? He thickly swallowed. If I could just get away—

He froze, stiff, when Ena grumbled something and noisily turned to face him with her leg hooked onto his own. She snorted and sniffed, muttering, before she was back asleep.

Steam puffed from Silver's nose and frantically, he waved it away before Ena could wake up to it. Why is my body steaming now? Are my new powers doing this to me? He closed his eyes as he tried not to feel anything. This feels so mature! I feel like I'm having a panic attack, but… I don't want to say what the other part of me is thinking. Lulu would murder me with a baseball bat. He trembled when Ena shivered. But what am I supposed to do? If I move, she'll wake up, but if she keeps doing that to me…!

He could hear his uncle Gajeel's drawling wisdom. "You know if you're poppin' up something in the morning, best thing you could do is—" His next words were censored in Silver's imagination and labeled too mature with an entire filter over Gajeel's mouth and the red words CENSORED stamped on his head.

I… I can't do that. Silver felt another wave of embarrassment wash over him. It wouldn't be okay. His breathing labored. It's not right. Those blues slid into hyper-focused as he drifted down Ena's body. His pupils dilated before turning into slits as he honed on her. It's not okay…. But those blues went to Ena's exposed neck and his nostrils flared as he pumped in that sweet lure-scent in like it was a drug.

That stir in his chest came alive with a low rumble.

So sweet… Silver's nose dipped to capture a raw sniff of Ena's scent. His lashes lowered as those blues highlighted themselves, and his lips curled to reveal fang. So…—his mouth ached, and he never realized how his lips widened for fang to get closer to skin—so sweet—

KNOCK-KNOCK-KNOCK!

Ena grunted when the loud knocking forced her awake and rolled over to curl into a ball. "Silver…" She waved a lazy hand. "The door. Go."

KNOCK-KNOCK-KNOCK!

"I-I-I…" Silver blinked, a bit dazed and mystified. What…was that? He cupped his jaw. I… What was I…?

KNOCK-KNOCK-KNOCK!

Ena growled and pushed up her eye mask. "For the love of…" She grumpily got out of bed and brushed back her braid with a huff. "Silver." She snapped her fingers. "Come. Now."

"A-Ah, yes, mistress!" Silver winced as he got out of bed and felt a bit of shame and embarrassment have to fidget and adjust before he could scurry at her. He got out of the bedroom as Ena stalked to the door when he gaped. What is she doing!

KNOCK-KNOCK-KNOCK!

"Coming," Ena trilled before immediately grumbling unladylike words underneath her breath. She went to the door only to choke when she was attacked from behind. "What the—?" She felt her silk robe being forced upon her and snarled, "Silver—"

"Mistress, you were dressed too indecently to answer the door." He made quick work tying the robe and plucking her eye mask before stepping away.

Ena threw a glare in his direction before gathering herself and her polite smile and opened one of the doors. Richard was on the other side, primped and dressed for the day with his bushy mustache that hid his mouth. "Good morning, Richard."

Richard bowed his head to her. "Good morning, Lady Ena. I apologize for the early morning greeting. However, when your attendant did not come downstairs to report your condition to Miss McMannin, Lord Nora sent me to check on your condition."

"I feel as good as new," Ena reported, though she grabbed onto the waistband of Silver's sweats when he tried to creep away. "However, thank you and the young lord for your concern." Her face fell into worry. "How is he?"

"He's fully recovered. The moment we were alerted his condition was more than likely from a magical attack, we were able to find the nearest Apothecary and he's in good health," Richard report.

Ena smiled. "Thank goodness. That's relieving to hear."

"Indeed. However, the physician still suggested to him to tread lightly today. As such, Lord Nora requests a private breakfast with you in the annex. He also would like your approval to postpone the fitting with Ladies Sylvie and Odette in exchange for a more intimate time." The monocle glinted. "Lord Nora has stated that his work will be postponed until after the reception ball, of which he hopes for you and him to have a personal conversation."

Silver scowled.

Ena understood and inclined her chin. "Very well. I accept his requests."

"Excellent. I shall alert the young lord. Lord Nora shall arrive within the hour to escort you to breakfast." Richard bowed to you. "If you will excuse me, My Lady." And he walked away.

Ena shut the doors with a loud breath before she whipped flaming eyes at a sweating Silver. "You…"

Silver flinched, fearful of her blade—

But he blinked in surprise when Ena did not descend onto him. Instead, she looked up at him in softness and murmured, "Do you feel better this morning?"

"I-I…" Silver rubbed his nape. "Yeah, um, I feel better…" He glanced at her then the floor. "Do you, um…feel better?"

Ena smiled wider. "I'm well, thanks to you."

"O-Oh, um. That's… That's good then."

"Aye. I supposed so." Ena had to laugh behind a fist.

Silver's cheeks heated, and he mumbled, "Quit laughing at me." But he could not help his smile when she laughed even more. "Ena…"

"Apologies. You're just awfully adorable," Ena chuckled. "Like a little puppy."

Lightning struck Silver. I'm still a pet! Well…it's better than pig I guess…

"This isn't an awkward morning-after encounter. Our emotions got the best of us yesterday, but we were under duress. It's natural for us to do things that might be a little out-of-character in the heat of the moment."

"Oh…" Silver's shoulders fell as he swallowed a pill of disappointment. "So then… You didn't mean what you said? You don't…need me?" He felt her hands slid onto his cheeks and sorrowful blues connected with twinkling browns.

"My word, I pity the young lady who ends up with you," Ena sighed. "You certainly need constant emotional reassurance. A needy thing, aren't you?" Silver puffed a cheek and tried to pull away, but Ena tittered and held him still. "I did mean what I said last night just as you did," she murmured.

Silver perked, hopeful. "You did?"

"Yes, I did."

"Could you say it again?" Silver reddened. "Just…one more time?"

Ena sighed, half-exasperated, but she humored him. "You—you stubborn, little, agitating fool—you are the first and last person to have made me exhaust all my defenses and wear me down." A bit of affection scored her eyes as she told him again, "I do need you, Silver." She cradled his jaw. "For all time—always." She simpered at the dazzled look on his face. "It's not that big of a deal, Silver, close your mouth." She let him go and whirled around—

"It is a big deal."

Ena froze when Silver hugged her from behind. She cleared her throat, a bit of pink on her cheeks, and said, "Silver—"

"I need you too."

Ena quieted.

Silver closed his eyes as he rested his cheek on her shoulder and a happy smile on his face. "I need you," he told her, "and I'll say it for as many times as you want me to. Don't ever think for a second I'd be okay with leaving you or that you're a burden. Because you could never be that."

Ena closed her eyes with a pathetic smile. "You say that now, Silver, and I'm appreciative." She patted his cheek. "But you should reserve those words for some you care about."

"I care about you."

"Don't play smart with me. You know what I mean." Her lashes fluttered when her skin tingled when he moved his arms. What…is this…? She eyed his arms around her and took a dragging look at their tautness. Yes, I know he has strong arms, but… My skin feels peculiar. She frowned when she felt something in her stomach. And my stomach. Perhaps I'm falling ill. She cleared her throat to do away with these alarming symptoms. "But yes, we have established we care for each other."

Silver snickered and crooned, "Mistress loves me…!"

"Hardly," Ena snorted. "I tolerate you, pig, and don't forget that." She rolled her eyes when he nuzzled her shoulder, laughing, and whirled in his arms to set him straight. "Now see here, you ungrateful, little…!"

Her breath caught.

Vibrant blues held her captive in hypnosis.

Too close for comfort, Ena's lecture died when her head had tipped up and her nose grazed Silver's. She froze. This was new. This was unusual. And while she had trained in multiple arts to take down any enemy who dared from too close, all those reflexes and rapid-fire strategies dissolved into a state of confusion and…something else that confused her.

Silver whispered. "Yes, mistress?"

"I…" Ena shivered when she felt Silver's hand on her back. A haze clouded her mind. What is…this? I don't…understand… She could feel something in her stomach and her heart hurt. This feels…horrible… She swallowed, but she felt her spit catch in her throat. I suppose the Anti-Ether hasn't cycled out and… Hypnotic blues made her eyes droop and her hand moved to cup Silver's bicep. And… A shaky breath. "Silver, I think…" I'm sick. I'm not recovered. I….

His voice came out in a sweet hiss, "Mistress?"

"I…" Ena felt a battle she did not even know she was having was being lost when she could feel his breath. "I…"

That was when she felt it.

The fog cleared as her face went stony, bangs covering her eyes. She quietly growled, "Silver…"

He was still entranced. "Yes?"

"Can you explain to me"—Ena's cheek twinged—"why something below your waist is touching me?"

For a moment, Silver let his trance consume him—

BEEP… BEEP… BEEP… BONG!

Silver's eyes widened. Oh, no. He leaped back like she was acid with his hands failing as comical sweat rained down his face. "I-I-I-I can explain it! U-Um, please, it's not what you think! It's actually really normal! I-It's happens sometimes, I swear, b-b-but it doesn't mean anything! Y-You could even take it as a compliment—!"

SHNK!

Silver narrowly avoided Ena slicing him in two with her trusted blade.

"You filthy pig in human clothing!" Ena snarled at him. She tried to grab him, but he skittered away. "Get back here and answer for what you've done this instant, you pig!"

"No!" Silver hid behind the couch, fearful.

"No? Fine then."

Silver fell back when Ena climbed up the couch to loom over him with her trusted blade and comically trembled. "C-Can't I beg for mercy, mistress?"

"Oh. I'll show you mercy, pig." Ena twitched her hand for her Magic to filter around Lunagr'an. "Your impure thoughts are the reason that thing got up. And as my mercy to you"—she showed him her shiny new burdizzo instrument used on large cattle for castration—"I'll help you get it back down."

Silver's eyes rounded as Ena's shadow consumed him. "Wait! Ena, wait! W-W-W-Wait, d-d-don't—!"

And all anyone heard in the annex was a girlish scream.

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— • — • — • —

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

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• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

The annex dining hall was an intimate setting with violet walls, wooden floors, and a decorative carpet. The table could seat up to ten and was a Traditionalist piece with chairs and cushions coming from the same craftsman. A few Wizard portraits hung on the walls as they brought their art alive with a ship sailing through the blustering sea and an active painting of nature synching up with real-time. It would look stunning during sunset.

Nora had dressed in a button-down and an intricate cummerbund with his long hair backed into a low ponytail. Ena presented herself in a long-sleeve white blouse with its exasperated tie and red carnations printed while her high-waisted sailor pencil skirt was a complimenting navy blue. Nora had taken the head of the table while Ena took to his left and breakfast between them aired free and easy. They had decided on having omelets tailored to their cravings with potatoes, bacon (tofu bacon for Ena), and toast with mimosas and spring water.

Silver came out from the kitchen flap dressed in a butler suit with his messy hair combed and tamed. A fresh mimosa was on his tray, and he exchanged Ena's empty glass for this new one. "Here you are, mistress."

"Very good." Ena shooed him. "You may go."

Silver could not hide his pout and his little whine, "Mistress…"

"Leave us." Ena gave him her cheek. "You are of no use to me right now. I'll call you should I have a need for you." She held up a hand when Silver looked like he wanted to shuffle closer to touch her. "Go." She sipped her fresh mimosa and ignored his comically wounded look.

Nora's lips quirked when Silver collected his tray and shuffled away. If he squinted, he was sure he could see flattened dog ears and a low canine tail. "You and your attendant certainly have an unusual relationship. I was surprised when you ordered him to dine with the staff. I was certain he would be hovering and checking your food and being a classic Mother Hen towards his mistress."

"He displeased me this morning," Ena sniffed. "He'll earn my attention when and if I chose to give it to him."

Nora chuckled. "It's telling when your own attendant begs for the attention of his mistress. He must admire and respect you an awful lot to be so persistent to crawl back into your good graces." He picked up his flute. "Your bond with him must be beyond conventional means."

Ena's eyes twinkled in fondness. "Well… He might be foolish, but…I have to admit." An affectionate smile toyed on her lips "I do need him." She cleared her throat to make sure her thoughts did not stray. "Thank you for organizing a private breakfast. I hope I mean no offense…"

"Please. Speak your mind. Although, I'm certain I know what you'll say." Nora sighed. "I wanted us to have a private breakfast because, as you know, there are things better to keep between us and my mother…" He sighed again and turned to Ena. "May I take your hand?"

Ena offered it to him, curious.

Nora lightly grasped her hand. "First and foremost, I owe you a sincere apology," he said. "I had honest intentions to duel you and give you the Black Sun Sword. However, because of my error, my mother found out about my interest in you and used that to her advantage. And as such, you're being targeted."

"Are you saying that—?"

"My mother wasn't responsible for the poisoning or for our attack," Nora soothed. "She's many things, but… She isn't a mastermind or a murderer. The investigation is ongoing for our attack and the explosion. The toxicology report on the poison won't return for a few weeks. But we have upped security."

Ena inclined her chin. "And how do you know this attack didn't come from within?"

"I always have my suspicions," Nora let her know, "but my mother is reluctant to believe someone from our house would betray us." Those grayed yellows glinted. "She's wrong in many areas, but she has trust in our staff." He cleared his throat. "After breakfast, if you're ready, the investigators would like to take your statement from the ambush."

Ena's eyes flashed. "Am I a suspect?"

"No." Nora was not offended at her challenge. "To be honest, my mother and both of my sisters were offended on your behalf when the investigators insinuated you could be behind the crime. You aren't a suspect but a victim."

Ena nodded, but she softened a little at his affirming words. "Thank you, Nora. For the apology and the belief."

"Of course." He smiled ruefully at her. "You showed me during our duel you never needed anyone to help you to take down an enemy. Your strength was—is—impressive." His eyes twinkled. "You're even more amazing in person. I'm honored I got to cross swords with you firsthand."

"I…" Ena flushed a little, but she kept her voice even as she said, "Thank you for your kind words. I'd share the sentiment, but I'll only do so when we have a fair duel where we're both in good health and have blades that have chosen us."

Nora chuckled. "I accept those terms, My Lady." He thumbed her knuckles.

Blinking rapidly, a slightly flushed Ena took back her hand. "Well, ah… Thank you for your apology."

Nora offered her an amused look as though he knew she was hiding how off-guard he put her. "You said that, My Lady, but you're welcome nevertheless." His amusement faded for sobriety. "There's much for me to explain to you. I'll try to explain what I can over breakfast, and we'll continue when we're alone for the horseback ride I owe you. Originally, Tristan was to be here…" He half-smiled when Ena tried to hide how stiff she had gotten. "However, his father suddenly requested his presence back at his home. He'll return for the reception ball."

"Well, I look forward to seeing him then."

Nora tensed. I can't help but think it was convenient for his leave. The urgency was so great he didn't wake me before he left? Those grayed yellows darkened. Did he strike gold on his research? Was it Mother who sent him away or…someone else in the estate? He quietly exhaled. Tristan… What did you find?

He turned his focus back to Ena and asked her, "Regarding the reception ball, I know my mother implied you would be on my arm, but it's not necessary."

"Nonsense. I'd be happy to accompany you." Ena took a bite of her breakfast.

That surprised Nora. "Are you sure? You know my mother's intentions—"

"And I don't care about them." Ena swallowed her next mouthful. "Let have her intentions. I'd be honored to go to the reception ball with you." She smiled to prove her point. "And besides… I missed you at the Yule Cotillion and have yet to see your dancing. I hope you'll indulge me."

Nora blinked before he smiled back. "But of course, My Lady. As you wish."

"Good. It's settled." Ena took a deep breath. "Now. Onto my questions…" She spread her arms and sheathed Lunagr'an and Soledia came into her hands, thrumming under his touch. It was bad form to have weapons on the table in a noble household, but she did not care as she laid down both swords.

Nora sighed. "This will be our topic for breakfast. The rest can wait for our ride," he decided. He looked upon the contrasting white and black blades. "As you're well aware, these swords are special. Your blade is the White Moon Sword and then you have the Black Sun Sword—opposites yet sisters. But not two halves of the same whole."

"But why did I hear Soledia?" Ena questioned. "Why was she in your possession? She was as eager for me to use her as Lunagr'an was when my fath—" She swallowed. "When I was gifted her," she corrected. She scoured Nora's face for answers, but when she saw his resigned look, she reached her hand to cover his and softly pressed, "Nora."

"You deserve the truth," Nora sighed. "It's just…not as simple as it should be." Two beats. "The Forge made these swords as the Black Moon and the White Sun," he explained to her. "As to the original masters of both swords, it's unclear. But their latest master… She was from over four hundred years ago."

That surprised Ena. Four hundred years ago?

"Your swords are special not just because they're products of The Forge, but because of their former master." Grayed yellows clashed with dark chocolates. "The Sun and Moon Swords' former master was known other than…the Scarlet Angel."

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure 104

•

What Once Was, What Now Is

•

かつては何でしたか、今は何ですか

•

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Ena repeated the moniker, "'The Scarlet Angel'…" She frowned. "I'm sure my mother and I have been called that before, but I don't have any memory of a previous swordsman called that. Should I have heard of her?"

"Not unless you had access to rare books," Nora told her. "Since Tristan couldn't be here today with his research, I'll do my best to explain." He glanced at Soledia. "From old tales, the Scarlet Angel was a Wizard with unfathomable power. She wielded her twin swords with such strength that it was rumored just by unsheathing her blades, she could demolish an army. But that's all I know of the Scarlet Angel. Hopefully, when Tristan returns, he can explain more about her."

Nora glanced at the swords again. "As to how I possessed the Black Sun Sword…" He heaved a breath. "This sword came into my possession by fate," he explained to her. "The Marquis had acquired the sword from our knights. Apparently, a few of our knights had gone on a bender and fought to win the sword. It was labeled as Cursed and required the strongest of wills to tame it. But it caused those knights to fall ill or bleed. The Marquis wanted to keep the sword and was looking for a Curse Consultant or an Occult to learn more about it. But for some reason…it fascinated me."

The sunstone of Soledia's hilt flashed.

"I ended up stumbling upon it locked in the armory," Nora continued. "I tried to hold it, but whatever energy was in it lashed out and cut my hands. But I kept trying night after night. Everyone said it was Cursed, but… In my eyes, it reminded me of Sylvie."

"Lady Sylvie?"

Nora nodded. "When I came to the estate, Sylvie was upset. She hated me." A ghost of a smile. "She doesn't necessarily like me, but we get along better. But she was always angry around me and pushed me away. But Odette showed me she did that because she didn't understand how to handle her grief over losing her mother and gaining another mother so soon."

Sympathy filled Ena's eyes and she squeezed Nora's hand. "I can imagine it was a hard time for all parties."

"It was," Nora softly said. "It took some time until Sylvie let me understand her. And her anger and grief showed in the Soledia. I sat down and told her I could tell she was upset and told her about Sylvie and how I'd listen if she was sad. I couldn't feel that angry energy around her, so when I touched her, I was shocked I could…feel her pain."

"Their emotions can be so powerful that they override your own," Ena commented.

Nora agreed. "She showed me glimpses of the wars she fought, her victories, her defeats. But she showed me what happened to her that turned her black. In a war, she had been shattered. Someone had stolen her and her pieces to reforge her, but it was clear whoever it was was someone with a black soul. Instead of being treated as a companion, she was turned into a slave and only saw blood."

He blinked, affected at the memories. "She showed me how she was used and tainted. It's what forced her into the black, violent sword she became. In the end, she begged for her rightful master to take her back. And all she told me was that her Lady was the 'Scarlet Angel'."

"And you thought that was me?"

"I only did after she got excited being near you," Nora told her. "She…tolerated me holding her. The Marquis gifted her to me when he saw I had tamed her, but it was a ruse. I pledged I'd find her master if she would be my sword for my own goal. I'll be honest—it was difficult to handle her. She had centuries of experience, and I wasn't worthy enough to use her well. Like I said, she tolerated me, but I knew she'd never side with me. But when Tristan and I had snuck away from our nannies and stumbled upon your live-steel demo…"

He stopped, and both Ena and him looked to see both swords vibrating their pleasure at the memory. He was a bit dazzled seeing how Ena was affected by her swords' happiness with a fresh pink on her cheeks. He asked, "What are they saying?"

"It's not so much as words. It's sensations and impressions they emote to me. I can only interpret what it all means," Ena relayed as she looked about both swords in such amusement. "Lunagr'an is boasting about how she looked good during the demo. Soledia is slightly jealous since she thinks I would've looked better as a duel-wielder." She patted Soledia's hilt like a light spanking. "Duel-wielding isn't as viable as you think."

The sunstone darkened before it brightened again.

Ena laughed, and Nora asked, "What is she saying now?"

"She's trying to persuade me by saying how she missed her sister and how beautiful I looked wielding the sun and the moon," Ena translated.

"I have to agree with her."

Ena met Nora's stare of admiration before her gaze shied away, a bit shy. She listened to both her swords for another moment before sadness dampened her eyes. "I can understand bits and pieces from Soledia. It's the same with Lunagr'an. I get bits of her history. I knew she was old, but I never knew how old."

She sighed. "My mother once told me that The Forge told her…the weapons she creates have their own personalities and allegiances. She lets them choose their wielder. The reason? It's up for interpretation. But to hear that… I find it such a gift she gives her weapons that freedom to choose. She lets them forge strong bonds with their masters. It's admirable. And it's a shame she has moved on to forging armors and no longer makes weapons."

"It is," Nora agreed. "The Marquis once told me he tried to poach The Forge's last apprentice."

"Really?" Ena sounded surprised. "I thought her last apprentice lived a quiet life?"

"Oh, he does." Nora had to smile. "The Marquis told me her apprentice was a profound young man. He could go anywhere, do anything, be paid his worth in gold—but he chose his education, his quiet projects, and decided he was fine where he was. The remaining apprentices of The Forge have made names for themselves, obviously, with their firms and being high-class Enchanters and designers, but…her last apprentice was said to be a child genius and her favorite one since he apprenticed under her one-on-one because she had retired and closed her school." He shook his head. "But he reminds me of you."

"Oh?"

"Aye. Both of you have incredible gifts that could make you paint the world"—his eyes twinkled—"scarlet." They shared a simper. "But you put your own goals and beliefs above greed and prestige. An admirable trait to have. If a handful of people had half the offers both you and the apprentice had, they would sideline their goals to amass wealth instead of hone their skills."

Ena hummed her agreement. "In the occasional interview, I'm asked why I don't battle as much considering my mother's reputation and my older brother's. While I sharpen my skills during Inter-Guild and exhibition matches, fashion and designing and tailoring—it spoke to me more than the thrill of a battle. And my mother supported that choice not to follow in her footsteps."

"I disagree." Nora explained when Ena frowned, "I think you have followed in her footsteps in your own way. You're not a primary Battle Mage like she was, no. But you're astute, sharp, ambitious, strong—it feels whimsical just to be in your presence, Ena. I've met your mother a few times at political functions and the resemblance between you two is uncanny. You're very much like her."

Ena let out a soft titter. "It's funny. She always tells me…how much I'm like my father." Her smile faded as the light in her eyes dimmed. "But I wish I knew that for certain—if I was like him. I know she wouldn't comfort me with empty words, but…" She shook her head. "Forgive me—"

"No need forgiveness.' Now Nora squeezed her hand. "I understand."

Ena looked into his eyes, confounded at how sad they were. Why does it feel like he really does understand how I feel? The Marquis is his father. But being an illegitimate child-turned-recognized isn't easy.

She switched topics as she retracted her hand once more. "So, can I safely assume our duel was a ploy? But how does your mother factor in?"

"That's a conversation for our ride," Nora told her. "But in pertains to our duel, I had honest intentions to duel you. But Soledia was impatient and angry to wait any longer. And since I yielded to you, she's rightfully yours in the eyes of Duel Law. You are—and have been—her rightful master."

Sunstone glistened.

Ena frowned, however. "I'm happy to have a sword that chose me, but… What of you?" she questioned. "You're to become a Holy Knight and the weapon you use is crucial to your selection. Having a Magic Sword and one by The Forge, no less, would've given you an edge to reach your goal."

"I have an arsenal of weapons to choose from, so please, don't worry," Nora placated. "I'm just relieved I could unite sword with its master. All else was an afterthought. But make no mistake." Those grayed yellows darkened. "I have every intention of becoming a Holy Knight. And I'll make sure to have a weapon suited for it."

Ena observed him for a long moment. "For the sake of your goal, I hope you do."

"Thank you." Nora and Ena went back to polishing off their plates as he thought, Using Soledia earned me talk within the rankings of the Holy Knights. Most—if not all—used weapons imbued with Ether. For me to have tamed a Cursed Sword earned me an automatic reputation. But I always knew my relationship with Soledia would be short-lived. And I planned for the day that would come I'd need a new weapon.

When they finished their breakfast, Silver appeared as though waiting. Nora could not hold back his mirth watching Ena and Silver's song and dance. Even as Silver tended to her plates and brought her the after-breakfast tea she always drank, it was clear he was panting for her attention in any way he could, always eager and willing and hopeful of an opportunity. But she sipped from her flute, disinterested and unimpressed.

Silver looked crestfallen at the rejection, but Ena did glance over to see how distraught he looked and offered him an approving incline of her head. It was like she put the sun in the sky with the way Silver perked. She hid her smile into her next sip from her flute while Silver had a comical flowery aura around him.

Nora thought, He's not as skilled as her to hide his emotions. I can tell his admiration for her goes beyond master-servant. He loves her. Those grayed yellows swept to Ena. And she has no idea. She's affected, but she doesn't know his feelings. He's happy enough to serve her and being close to her, but he won't say a word to shatter what he has. We're not so different in that aspect. He watched as Silver left them, but he had a goofy smile on his face. He's loyal to her. That much was obvious. Still…

Nightmarish boils invested skin as blood drooled from the cracks of eyes and mouths.

Nora's expression darkened. I didn't pay attention to him. I thought he was just a simple Elemental Mage, but…he's severely dangerous. You wouldn't suspect it the way he hangs onto her, so docile and submissive. You can't even feel a hint of bloodlust from him. However…

The hailing rain that wiped away the scarlet pools on the ground. Vibrant blues that spoke of war.

I'd never seen anything like it. Silver Fullbuster… Nora looked at the kitchen flap. Just who are you? He dragged his gaze to Ena as she indulged in her tea. "After you're finished with giving your statement, would you prefer for a visit to the armory or to head to the stables?"

"The stables," Ena decided. "I think our conversation is to be had sooner rather than later."

Nora shared her consensus, but he teased her, "And will your attendant be joining us? Is he forgiven for displeasing his mistress?"

"Perhaps," Ena sniffed.

Nora chuckled as he relaxed in his chair. "I sympathize with him, your Silver. We have more in common than I thought."

"Oh?" Ena set her teacup down on its saucer. "How do you mean?"

"Well…" Nora crossed a leg and propped his elbow on the arm of his chair and let his cheek drop upon a fist. "We both have great admiration and respect for you. And"—his smile widened—"we both get starved for your attention, My Lady."

Ena's eyes widened. "Ah…" She turned back to her tea with the tips of her ears pink. "Thank you for such high praise, My Lord." She picked up her tea—there was a bit of a shake in her hold—and saved herself from more conversation to take long sips.

Nora chuckled as he watched her tried to hide her rattled state. "My pleasure," he purred mischievously, "Scarlet Angel."

°•°•°•°

The kitchen looked too perfect to be used with its chrome finishes and matte gold handles and knobs. Almost everything had technology integrated from it, but it was easy to see the chefs were allowed a wider birth into making this kitchen their home with magnets on the refrigerator and decorated storages for spices and seasonings. Carson, Meg, and Richard were sitting together as they finished up their breakfast while Erica was content doing the dishes, but she looked up when Silver came back into the kitchen with his flowery aura.

"Uh-oh. Looks like someone got back into his lady's good graces," Erica teased, snickering when he flushed. "How exactly did you manage to get her all riled up at you to begin with?"

"Uh…" Silver's blush deepened as he put his tray on the counter and remembered this morning.

• — • — •

"You disgusting pig. I should let you rot as one."

Silver sat on his knees with a sizable lump on his head while Ena stood before him. He gulped. "I-It was an accident, mistress, I swear," he whimpered.

"It better have been," Ena growled. "I know it's a biological thing, but I expect something like that to not happen in my presence. If you dare let it happen in my presence again…" She leaned down to grip his jaw with bruising strength and huskily threatened, "I will have no choice other than to punish my little pig." She whispered, "And believe me, I'll enjoy every second of it."

• — • — •

It's not like I meant for it to happen, but she was so close and against me, Silver miserably thought. And then when she said she would punish me… Steams rolled off him as he buried his head into his hands. The second she let me go shower… And I kept feelings things… More comical steam puffed off him as he lamented, I'm ruined for marriage!

Erica raised an amused eyebrow. "You've got it that bad for her, huh?" She hooted her laughter as Silver yanked his head from his hands to gape. "You came in here looking like a sad, little puppy and one smile from her gets you coming back here all hot and bothered."

Silver flailed his arms. "I-I-It's not like that!"

"Right…" Erica drawled. "And Carson doesn't live off of energy drinks."

Carson, however, looked unashamed as he was on his third Bluebull. "It's either I drink this, or I fall asleep and never want to wake up again," he muttered before finishing off his third drink. "All the paperwork—my master's degree let me sleep better than this." He broke into a yawn.

Richard looked unimpressed as he dabbed his mouth (or wherever his mouth was hidden beneath that bushy mustache). "Perhaps you'd get more sleep if you stopped playing that ridiculous game. You know the young lord introduced you to it as a distraction, so you would stop chasing him around."

Meg hmphed as she finished her mouthful of country-fried chicken. "What an idiot."

"You're no better," Carson muttered as he broke open his fourth energy drink. "You have to pull all-nighters because he bribes you with shiny things so you leave him alone."

Meg pushed up her glasses with the lenses glinted. "At least I'm not exhausting myself because I'm playing a stupid game."

"Oh, no, you'd never do that," Richard said, sarcastic. "Instead, you indulge yourself in taking a bath in all the jewels and gold the young lord pawns off to you for your silence."

Erica snickered while Silver looked a bit in wonder at the bicker. She went to dry her hands and go to the microwave. "Sorry about them. We really do get along. We all just have some…personality."

"No, it's fine. My guild is the same way." Silver blinked when Erica came back to push a plate full of food into his hands and a drink. "O-Oh. Is this for me?"

"Of course it is. You told me you didn't want to eat until your mistress was finished," Erica reminded, grinning when Silver ducked his head, flushed. "Go sit at the table and eat. Nora will come in here if he needs anything."

"Okay." Silver went to settle at a free spot at the small nook in the kitchen beside Richard as Richard was speaking to Carson to Meg.

"With Lord Atticus back, we'll need to make sure the young lord and him aren't close until the Marquis returns," Richard said. "The staff should be completed with the deep-cleaning of the prep work for the inspection tomorrow—"

Silver piped up, a bit confused. "Um, excuse me? What do you mean that Nor—I mean, the young lord and Lord Atticus shouldn't be close together?" He looked between the three. "Aren't they brothers?"

"They might be half-brothers, but Atticus is a…difficult character," Meg relayed. "To put it frankly"—her glasses flashed—"he's cheerful."

Silver had question marks around his head. "Huh?"

"Lord Atticus has a cheery countenance. He has a reputation in high society for how pleasant and friendly he is," Richard remarked.

Carson chugged his energy drink. "He's so preppy. It's honestly terrifying," he muttered. "But everyone loves him."

"Quite frankly, he's too cheerful. That said"—Richard's eyes darkened—"there is something about that cheerfulness that feels different when he and the young lord are around each other. When we became the young lord's staff, it was easy to see Lord Atticus had a different sort of cheeriness around him. We make it a point to try and keep the young lord away from Lord Atticus, but days like yesterday, if Lord Atticus finds him, we can't turn him away."

"I see…" Silver helped himself to a few morsels of his breakfast. So…he doesn't have a good relationship with his older brother. I don't know what I'd do if Gary and I weren't close. "What's the Marquis like? Is he the same way?"

Carson answered this after a heavy swallow of his energy drink. "Not at all. From all my encounters with him, he's a good man."

Silver sweatdropped when he realized Carson had three more untouched energy drinks on the table. How has he not died from drinking all of that?

"The Marquis is a man dedicated to his craft and to his duty," Richard explained. "I served as his head butler prior to being transferred to the annex and caring for the staff here. He has a brilliant mind and a firm hand, and he's always cared for his family and his country." He sighed. "When the first Marchioness passed away, I helped him through his grief. The entire estate felt cold once she passed."

Silver swallowed his mouthful, somber. "I'm sorry for your loss." He asked, "What was she like?"

Richard softened as though he was gearing up to speak about his own daughter. "She was a monster."

Silver choked. "E-E-Excuse me?"

"She was one of the fiercest women I have ever known with the foulest mouth I've ever heard. Worse than most soldiers," Richard boasted while Silver's jaw dropped. "I'd never seen the Marquis so entranced with her. She held a knife to his face when he sought her out in hope she'd give him the time of day. And he was smitten with her ever since."

What kind of love story is this! Silver cried.

"Regardless of high society's views on manners, the Marquis never wanted her to lose her fire," Richard continued with a warmth in his tone. "She was certainly different than most other ladies of the court. But you felt compelled to respect her. The Marquis fawned over her." He chuckled. "She was never a person to show affection and often dodged his attempts, even when he officially courted her and earned her hand. Such a brazen lady of the court reduced to a shy little woman. I see so much of her in Lady Odette and Lady Sylvie."

He continued: "So what was she like? All admired and respected her. She had her enemies, but she outnumbered them in allies. And she and the Marquis shared such an endearing love story. Her passing felt like the estate would never have a drop of color again. For eleven days and eleven nights, the Marquis stood vigil over her grave. He was devoted to making sure she was not alone as she passed on."

His expression shifted. "That's why, for all the devotion he held for her, the entire estate and high society was shocked and devastated to learn about his illegitimate heir. The Marquis, however, paid no mind about the rumors and accusations. Considering his contributions to the monarchy and dedication to our country, no one could afford to outright disrespect him. But the young lord has not had an easy life living within Savant Hall."

Silver thought about it. I guess I never thought about things like this, but…of course he'd have had a hard life. Ena put me in those mandatory political science and history lessons to teach me about high society. It's not like adultery is uncommon, but it's still frowned upon. And illegitimate kids have the hardest time fitting in since everyone treats them like they're a disease.

He thought about Nora. I might not like him, but he must've been strong to keep his head up during all of that.

Carson yawned and said, "He might not have had it easy, but he's smiled more in the past two days than he has since I was assigned to this position." He tipped his head back to finish his energy drink before he snorted, "And we all know why."

"He's been looking forward to Lady Ena's arrival to Savant Hall ever since she confirmed her duel with him," Richard said diplomatically.

Meg added on, "I never thought I'd see the day he was excited to see a girl. The Marchioness always kept asking me if he confided about any crushes or ladies of the college he had any interest in."

"Yes, and we know the young lord bribed you for your silence," Richard said dryly.

Meg hmphed again. "He might've given me incentive, but I wouldn't betray him like that. There wasn't anything to tell. Of course he has admirers since he's the recognized son of the Marquis, but he always attended functions alone and kept to himself." She pushed up her glasses, but her eyes slid to the kitchen flap. "Although, I suspect he won't be doing so for much longer."

"Maybe her work ethic will rub off onto him," Carson muttered. "All the maids could gossip over was how it looked like he was stressing over what colors to wear to the Wardrobe Master." He snorted. "Can you believe that?"

"I suspect the young lord wants to look presentable to a rising queen of fashion," Richard said. "It's such a relief. Now that the young lord has such an esteemed lady to court, my life might be a little easier instead of chasing after him and that sword."

Meg arched a manicured eyebrow at him. "He might sneak out of the estate to see her and abandon his work."

Richard testily said back, "Perhaps if his assistant kept him on schedule instead of taking bribes, he would be doing his work. I've checked all of Lady Ena's credentials and she's as impressive as the late Marchioness. He'll need to double his efforts to properly court her." He pointedly looked at Meg. "And you will have to keep watch of him once they start courting and keep him on schedule. His slack in his duties will be on your responsibility and no number of bribes will help you."

Meg's face stiffly soured.

"That's enough courtship talk," Erica sang as she swept to collect the empty plates. "The young lord is still a teen. Let him live his life." She winked at Silver, who looked a bit embarrassed and relieved at her save.

Richard sighed as he helped himself to his tea—a Minstrish man through and through. "Well, speaking of courtship and the late Marchioness, while I have great fondness for the young lord, I still cannot believe the Marquis had an illegitimate heir."

"Why do you say that?" Silver inquired, curious. "Because he was so in love with the Marchioness?"

Richard waved his hand in a vague rolling gesture. "Yes. It was something I had never predicted. The Marquis and I had an open relationship. When he courted the late Marchioness, he was like a child when he would show me their correspondence. He was so excited when she would send him heartfelt rejection letters with such a crude tone throughout it. He was always excited to tell me whenever he was lucky enough to catch her and which new weapon she threatened him with."

Seriously! What sort of love story is this! Silver cried.

"That's why I couldn't understand how he could commit adultery," Richard went on, clearly troubled. "He was never a private person with much of his life, something his father often scolded him for. But somehow, he had an heir with the current Marchioness and no one knew until he came back home with them both and introduced us. He even had an authenticated blood test." He shook his head, and it reminded Silver of how his father would whenever he caught Julia terrifying him and Gary.

"I wasn't hired until after the marriage to become the manager of the annex," Carson spoke up, "but the Marquis always seemed like a good man. He liked it when I gave my opinions and had enough trust in me to do what needed to be done without his constant approval. The Marchioness…" He shrugged. "She's nice. She's my employer. And she does her best to be the lady of the estate. But she's a bit of a religious nut."

"Carson," Meg admonished.

Carson brushed her off. "Oh, please. I know how your face got all screwed up when she wanted all those statues made and wanted to commission that stained-glass window. The Marquis talked her town from the ledge, but I was worried she'd get away with it."

"What's her religion?" Silver questioned.

"Your guess is as good as mine," Carson muttered into his next gulp. "She'd talk about her 'Mother', but I have no idea what she is or what that means. There's just something odd about her. Honestly, I'm always surprised how she and Nora are related. She's so talkative, but he barely said anything to me for a while."

Richard agreed with that. "The young lord has always been a quiet person. Lord Tristan might not be the most…ideal companion, but Lady Ena has caught his attention, and she's quite the beautiful and blossoming young woman inside and out. I hope she gets him to smile more often."

Silver harshly swallowed and mumbled, "Right." His appetite was gone. Instead, he gnawed on jealousy he felt guilty for and let that fill his stomach and drifted out of the conversation.

What if…? What if Ena liked Nora? Would she leave? He's a lord and everything. If she's the queen in the fairy tale, then Nora would be the prince and I'd be… He pressed his lips together as those blues saddened. I'd be nothing but her pathetic servant…hoping she'd look at me…

THUD!

Silver jumped out of his thoughts when Erica came over with a bottle on the table and she looked at her companions mischievously. "How about a bit of a kick in our drinks?" She winked at Silver as Carson and Meg perked up while Richard tried to look like he was above it.

Silver mustered up a weak smile, but he rubbed his chest as that stir in it felt sad and envious of something he could never have. A servant boy who dreamed of seeing his queen notice he was alive.

---

The East Forest of Magnolia was drying out from the snow and making room for spring. Hibernation was over, and animals had reentered the world to remake their homes and hope to bring new life into the world and teach them well. The brooks babbled, and Dragon Pond had curious dragonflies and butterflies hovering above as the fish swam and listless cycles for the meals.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Dragneel Residence

Magnolia Town

Fiore, Ishgar

10:50 AM FST

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Sweat dripped Gale's flesh as he breathed harshly. His bangs matted against his forehead and those ruby reds were heated and let out an animalistic groan.

"Shit, Blondie," he panted, pained. "You're killing me here." His eyes fluttered as he groaned again. "Go slower. You're gonna make me lose it if you keep this up."

Nimble hands danced across flesh as Luna huskily told him, "I can't help it. What if I did this instead?"

"Fuck…me…" Gale deeply moaned, his abdomen shuddering. "Blondie… Luna… You need to stop—"

Lips pulled into an amused smile. "Why? Can't handle it?" Nimble hands slid to reposition against flesh. "You were the one begging for this, Gale. And you want me to stop when you've come so far? Don't you want to"—fingers pressed—"finish?"

Gale sucked in a hissed breath as his brow pinched and his arms shook. "Ah… Fuck, Blondie… I can't…"

"You can," Luna cooed in encouragement. "I'm going to keep going, okay?"

"Blondie, wait—Fuck!"

Luna tittered. "Oh, come on, Gale. I didn't take you to be this much of a pushover." She sat back on her haunches in her sports bra and athletic leggings as she watched Gale on the matt on the deck. He looked like he was struggling to hold a difficult yoga position that forced you to use muscles a fighter normally would not think of, and she had to admit seeing him flushed and sweaty over a move she could easily do made her want to laugh.

Gale blew out his cheeks. "You're trying to kill me."

"No, I'm trying to help you with your flexibility." She came back to put pressure on his back when she saw his arms shaking badly. "All right. You've been apparently tormented long enough—"

Gale dropped with his back hitting the mat, and he took greedy lungfuls of air. "Water," he rasped. "I'm dyin' here."

Luna rolled her eyes. "Drama queen." But she reached over him to get his water bottle and waterfalled his energy drink into his waiting mouth. "I can't believe you're so out of shape. Silver normally can keep up with me better than you. Igneel definitely could."

"The fuck is every Dragneel out to blow my pride out the damn water." Gale pawed the floor for his towel and dried his face. "Was this revenge? You this vindictive towards me to torture me like that, Blondie? Doin' me dirty like this?"

Luna rolled her eyes again with a playful grin. "I'm not 'doing you dirty' or anything. Papa asked me if I could continue on with your flexibility training, and you agreed, so…" She let her sentence hang, but she chortled when Gale theatrically groaned. "I don't understand how you're so out of shape."

"Look at this." Gale patted his well-defined stomach. "This is not out of shape." He flexed his arm. "You see this? Pure fucking muscle. This shit you're having me do isn't 'training'. It's Hell on steroids."

Luna sighed. "So dramatic." She easily dipped back to make a bridge before pushing her legs up into a handstand. "Papa and Mama have all of us do flexibility training." Slowly, she did the splits in the air. "It's good for the body and it makes you feel better spiritually too." She easily spun herself back onto her feet. "I don't get why you're having so much trouble."

"Hey." Gale pointed at her as he finally caught his breath. "I am not having trouble, okay? You're just getting off tormenting my body." He groaned as he sat up and waterfalled more of his drink.

Luna shook her head at him. "Whatever, Gale. It gets easier as we keep training—"

"Are you crazy?" Gale looked at her like she was insane. "You want to torture me again? Does every Dragneel have it out for me? The Hell did I do to your bloodline?"

Luna crossed her arms and mumbled, "So whiney."

"I heard that," Gale said dryly. "Tell Aunt Wen to start teaching you massage therapy. You owe me a nice, sweet, long rubdown after turning me into a goddamn pretzel. Like, when is being flexible going to help me? I kick ass and take names. I'm doing just fine without whatever the fuck this is."

Luna went to sit on the steps. "You're impossible." She decided to give her attention to the two people sparring in the backyard who better deserved it. Nashi was in her training gear as she sparred with Býleistr and Loke without Magic, all three of them in training gear. Both Lion Spirits were giving her a run for her money as they worked as a unit to wear her down, but Nashi did not budge.

Luna heard all Gale's hissing and grunting as he sat at her side and wrinkled her nose smelling her sweat, but she commented, "It's weird we have to train in martial arts. I didn't think other Mages did."

"Most don't," Gale told her with another swig of his drink, his towel around his neck. "Some Mages need more mental and spiritual training than physical, and that's fine. But most Wizards out there don't think they need a Spiritless tactic of training. They think it's stupid and old school, but it helps a lot more than it hurts you." He gestured when Nashi landed two jabs onto Loke's stomach before roundhouse kicking Býleistr in the chest. "Exhibit A."

"I guess I get it," Luna supposed.

"If it helps you understand it a little better, my old man told me when Master wanted to start the training program for younger Mages and gathered the senior and S-Class Mages, it was a general consensus we be taught in martial arts," Gale confessed to her. "We don't have a dojo, no, and we don't compete professionally, but it really does help you. Just because you have powers doesn't mean they're the end-all-be-all, y'know? You have to learn to defend yourself at every angle."

Luna hummed.

Nashi's fight with Býleistr and Loke was heightening to the climax, and everyone could feel it. Býleistr and Loke were trying to corner her, and Nashi found herself boxed in, but she was not a quitter, nor would she fight like a savage to win. She eyed the two of them before she decided Loke was the weaker one and pounced. Loke had to keep blocking from her relentless hits, but Nashi grunted when Býleistr grabbed her. Her body twisted like a snake until she had forced herself out of Býleistr's arms with her body climbing his. Her thigh wrapped around his neck, and she swung to bring him down.

Býleistr grunted when his back hit the ground, but Loke was waiting for this opportunity. Nashi could not hold down Býleistr and fend Loke off, and both Lion Spirits used that. The second Nashi's attention prioritized defending herself from Loke, Býleistr gripped her hips and flipped the table to take her down. She wriggled and snarled, but when Býleistr grabbed her nape, her body went pliant. After five seconds, she tapped his arm.

Býleistr got off her while Loke helped her to her feet, pride shining in his eyes. "You did well today."

"I didn't win," Nashi grumbled.

"No, but you didn't quit," Loke told his niece. "You're not a quitter." His eyes went to Býleistr as he emphasized with a note of aggression, "You fought."

Býleistr's hackles went up at Loke's thrown words. The past few months, he had endured the stench of Loke's hatred and malevolence with his head down, submissive, accepting, but he was puffed up from the fight and those sunset oranges narrowed as he spat, "I'm not a quitter."

"But you never fought," Loke snapped at him as he let go of Nashi. "You were a quitter."

Býleistr showed his teeth as he snarled, but Nashi placed a hand on both of their chests to keep them separated. "Hey," she snapped, "don't start fighting each other. I thought we were past this? And this is my training session, remember?" She shoved them away from each other, shaking her head. "You're both being stupid."

Býleistr kept his teeth out as he glared at Loke. "No. The great Leo has something to say to me. Why doesn't he just come out with it?"

"Býleistr," Nashi warned. "Drop it."

"I put up with this because I have respect for Miss Lucy and for my own mistress," Býleistr hissed at Loke with his claws extended. "I let you get in your petty little comments, and I smelled your hatred. I can handle you hating me, but I'm not a fucking quitter, number one. I fought. I never quit."

Loke got into Býleistr's face with those hazels seething. "You had one duty to protect her, and you let her die. You quit—"

"I didn't quit!" Býleistr dropped into his Lion Form with his tail lashing. "I put up with your bullshit, but I'm done, Leo! I never quit on her! You weren't there! You don't understand—!"

"I understand you abandoned her there on that planet to die!" Loke thundered with his lion ears flat and his hands twitching as though wishing to claw into Býleistr's fur. "You always quit! You're a quitter! Weak little cat!"

A deep snarl of declaration of challenge barreled through Býleistr's throat. "Don't start something you can't finish, number one," he forewarned as he made sure his fangs showed his intentions. "Don't test me." His body shifted to match Loke as they circled each other.

"Weak little cat," Loke snarled back. "Quitter! You always quit! I had to defend you from the Council when you always quit, number two. You deserved to be in the Void! Quitter! Weak lion!"

Býleistr offered a cruel smirk as he replied, "From where I'm standing, you also were a quitter. You hate me for a crime I didn't commit, but you made the same crime." A sick smugness hit him when a bit of pain backed Loke's rage. "The only reason I got put in the Void and you got a spanking was because you were the chosen one, number one. But you're just as bad as me." He hedged forward with his body locking down with his intentions. "Quitter!" he snarled. "Weak little cat!"

Loke showed his teeth to show his own intentions, but he made sure to stab Býleistr and twist the knife as he sneered, "But I never loved her when she was meant for someone else, did I?"

Býleistr's pupils dilated and with a rabid roar, he charged for Loke with his claws with Loke prepared to receive and show him why he was number one—

"Holy Shield!"

Both Lion Spirits staggered backward when the translucent rainbow shields derailed their efforts as impenetrable walls with Nashi in the middle and fury in her eyes. She snarled as fiercely as they had, "What the Hell are you to doing? We're family! We never do this to each other!" She dropped her shields with waves of anger rolling off her.

She was an Agent of Wrath.

Býleistr and Loke panted, their aggression skin-deep and their ire centuries old, but it was Býleistr who could not hold Loke's glare. He crept towards Nashi with his tail down and body low. Submissive. He nuzzled his cheek to her leg as his apology.

Nashi's cheek twinged as her anger would not fade. "Don't touch me." Tone biting. "Go for a run to shake off being a dick." When Býleistr offered a weak whine and butted his head to her leg, Nashi's hand came down to flick him away. It was not a hard flick, but Býleistr backed away, eyes low and tail curled. It was a sight to see a majestic lion cowering like a chastised dog. He risked another glare at Loke, but he winced when Nashi's eyes shot to him, and he jetted off into the woods like her fury was snapping at his paws.

Nashi's spine was still straight as she turned towards Loke and dropped the words, "Mama would be so disappointed in you. And right now, I am too."

That hurt. Loke righted himself, upset. "Nashi—"

"We're family," Nashi enforced and jabbed a finger into his chest like it was a knife. "You promised Mama you'd behave when you agreed to help me spar for two-on-ones. Býleistr is my Celestial Spirit. He's family." She added, "You're brothers."

Anger flared in Loke's eyes. "He is not my family."

"If you can't accept him, then you can't accept me." The words were harsh, and even Nashi looked a bit affected by her own threat.

Loke's anger broke for disbelief. "Nashi, this is something you can't understand," he tried to tell her. "Things that happened long before even you were born—"

"I don't care. It's been three months," Nashi told him. "I thought we were all getting along, but I guess not. If you can't accept being around him, you can't accept being around me. He's my Celestial Spirit, Uncle Loke. He's my friend—my family." Those hickories clouded. "I really thought you'd try to get along for Mama and me. I thought we meant a little to you for you to make this work. I guess I was wrong, huh?"

That broke Loke with clear remorse. "Nashi—"

Rigidly, Nashi gave him her back. She was done talking. To her dismay, Gale had shifted to partially put Luna behind him as though gearing up to defend her if the fighting got out of control, but she walked over to them. Luna wordlessly handed her a water bottle, but the concern was heavy in such young eyes. Nashi could hear Loke's rushed footsteps break into the forest and waited a few seconds before her shoulders slumped.

"What the Hell was that?" A growl caught Gale's throat.

Nashi sighed and went for her towel to blot her face, but Luna spoke up for her. "Sorry. Uncle Loke and Býleistr haven't been on the best terms since Nashi summoned Býleistr," she explained while Nashi sat on a step. "Mama's been acting as a buffer, but Uncle Loke normally doesn't come out when Býleistr's here."

"And we now know why," Nashi muttered. "All I get from Býleistr is they have some unresolved anger at each other from some time ago. But Mama's other Celestial Spirits don't mind Býleistr and treat him fine. I know it's about Býleistr's previous owner, but…" She shook her head. "I wish they could get along." She swished her ponytail over her shoulder. "Sorry you had to see some family drama, Gale."

"It's whatever." Gale looked alert with his eyes pinned to the tree line, but Luna's shoulder on his made him less on edge. The Wild kept low, tail down, but it purred feeling a touch it always preened for. "You looked good out there."

"Thanks." Nashi gulped down more of her drink. "Seeing how Master could take on Býleistr and I at the same time without breaking a sweat made me want to train for it." She groaned. "S-Class training is kicking my ass, but Papa is being ridiculous."

When Luna saw Gale's confusion, she explained with an eye roll, "Papa keeps trying to hijack Nashi's runs and her workouts since he wants some father-daughter bonding now that Nashi moved in with Gary—"

"I didn't move in with him!" Nashi's flush from exertion turned into embarrassment. "I'm just…cohabitating his condo until he permanently comes home is all. And once he's home, I'll come back here. We agreed to it and everything. So, no, I'm not living with him."

Gale and Luna shared a raised eyebrow and a look.

Nashi tugged at one of Luna's Perench braid pigtails and grumbled, "I could not buy you the Lacrima De-Scent-itizer, you know. Then Papa would know where you've been." She smiled when Luna started whining and clung to her. "All right, all right, no need to get weepy. You're lucky you have me for a sister." She patted Luna's side. "Just keep it clean, okay?" Hickories stared hard into ruby.

Gale stared back, but it was not challenge in his eyes but assurance and promise. The Wild did not feel threatened but acknowledge its gift. "We do. And we will. We're not ready for anything like that."

"Good." Nashi made sure Gale saw her eyes and the souls that would fight with her for a few more moments to hold her point before she turned onto her sister with a sunny smile. "You ready to spar?" She laughed when Luna groaned. "C'mon, it'll be fun!"

Luna mocked a crying noise. "Why can't you spar with Gale? Why me?"

"Because I sparred with him this morning, and I promised Papa I'd take over your training today," Nashi reminded her. "I learn a lot more when I teach. And Papa will be back from his private training with Luke soon enough and you can go back to swearing up a storm at his trash talk."

Gale hooted remembering how Natsu grinned like a fool as he crooned his insults while Luna was red in the face. "Man, I thought my mouth was bad, Blondie, but you're learning how to swear with the best of 'em."

"Yeah, but Mama's not happy about that," Luna sighed. "Papa just…makes me so furious."

"Trust me. Once you start learning how to trash-talk back, you'll be able to take it and give it back," Gale promised her. "My old man, my uncle Lily, and I trash talk like a motherfucker when we duke it out." He patted Luna's back. "Just gotta learn how to fight dirty by speaking dirty."

Nashi barked a laugh. "Please. Lu's too innocent to trash-talk."

"I can do it!" Luna looked like she was struggling to come up with anything until she weakly to Nashi, "Your hair looks…like bubblegum?" She flushed, embarrassed, when Gale and Nashi roared in laughter and stood up. "I'm going inside. I'm not sparring."

Gale stopped her as he snickered. "Wait, Blondie, c'mere, don't go." He sat her down, grinning when she would not look at him out of spite. "We're sorry for laughing. You're just so cute and innocent. It's adorable, principessa."

Luna huffed. "Whatever. Let's get this over with. I want to finish up all my work before we have dinner with Carlisle and his boyfriend."

Nashi stiffened at the name. "You're seeing Carlisle today?"

"Yeah." Luna smiled as she thought of him. "He's been a pretty great friend since the break-up. I thought it'd be awkward, but he's been amazing." She nudged a pissed-off Gale and teased, "But Gale hates him."

"No. I put up with that dumbass for Dante's sake," Gale groused. "Fucker's lucky he's wearing Dante's collar. I would've snapped him over my knee for all the bullshit I have to deal with."

• — • — •

"Aw, is the Beast feeling lonely without his Beauty again?"

Gale sat rigid on Dante's couch with his eye twitching and his hands heavily clenched into fists as a sly Carlisle poked and prodded him with his lips pulled into a grin. "Aw, no need to look so sad, Beastie. You just need to put a smile on that face." He booped Gale's nose and puffed, "Boop! Now you can smile instead of looking all emo!"

Gale lost it and moved to strangle him. "You son of a—!"

"Dante…!" Carlisle loudly whined, forcing Gale to freeze.

Dante poked his head in from the kitchen with a raised eyebrow as he took in Gale sitting on the couch while Carlisle swayed next to him crisscrossed. "Yeah?"

"Nothing. I just missed you," Carlisle said sweetly with a twinkle in his eyes as he reveled in Gale struggling to control himself. "Beast over here looks like he's getting hungry." He hugged Gale, their cheeks touching. "You're not you when you're hungry, Beast. Wouldn't want you hangry, would we, huh?" He snickered as he pressed against a shaking Gale. "Squish-squish!"

• — • — •

"I would kill him with my bare hands, but the son of a bitch is always too close to Dante," Gale growled, his eyebrow twitching in agitation. "If I could just get him alone and corner him…"

Luna shook her head. "You are not killing Carlisle. And this is my first time meeting his boyfriend, so please, just keep yourself in check, okay?" She added when Gale looked grumpy, "For me?"

Gale puffed, shaking his head. "Put those eyes away, Blondie. I'll behave." Not like I have a choice. He tried to hide his sweating as he thought of Dante's unreadable face alongside Carlisle's smug one. Dante would murder me in cold blood if I touched a hair on his precious baby's head. Ugh. The Hell was I thinking agreeing to this dinner?

Oh, but he remembered Luna's plea and those doe eyes she offered him as she asked him. "Please, Gale? For me?"

Gale keeled over with a dreary over him. It should be illegal for her to say those words to me, dammit.

"Is he coming by the house?" Nashi asked Luna, casual.

Luna shook her head. "No."

"I'm driving us both to the Commons," Gale informed Nashi as he scratched his chin. "Have some shit to do for The Society since I still haven't picked out my summer program and some stuff to fill out and some errands to run. Then, Blondie and I will meet him and Dante there to hang and get dinner."

Nashi absently nodded. "That's nice." Dammit. I was hoping to meet him. I ended up having to leave Pleasure Palace too early because Mama got sick, so I couldn't get an in-person introduction. But those eyes…

Sparkling sea-greens with freckles of violet.

A frown pressed into Nashi's lips. I don't understand why seeing his eyes makes me so…I don't know. But there has to be something about him… Maybe he's the son of an Agent. Lu said his mom is a prima ballerina, but his father could be…

"What are you doing tonight, sissy?" Luna asked.

Gale smirked. "Oh, I know," he drawled. "Tesla was excited as shit you guys are going out to the club scene and doing some bar-hopping. She was chipper enough to let me know when I saw her at OSU's library."

Luna's eyes were as round as an owl. "Gary's letting you do that?"

"Lu, if there is one thing you need to know about relationships, it's that you can do whatever the Hell you want as long as you communicate," Nashi told her sister with a grin. "But yeah, he knows." She turned away to sweatdrop. Stupid dog got all mopey about it though. I thought he'd be upset Ellie, Justin, Tesla, and I were going out to Soho, but he ended up all mopey because he wouldn't be at home to help me if I end up drunk.

Hickories softened. That idiot. Doesn't he know saying sweet things like that is bad for my health?

"Try not to go too crazy," Gale ragged Nashi. "I don't think you've seen Tesla when she decides to dope herself up. She's a wildcard." He shook his head in mirth. "Don't be alarmed if you see her seduce half the club. It's pretty much her drunk MO, and Jax is cool with it."

Luna's eyes were sparkling. "They're so cool!"

Nashi laughed as she got to her feet. "Yeah, they are. But all this talk about plans after training is reminding me we still have work to do." She smiled when Luna pouted. "Uh-uh. Come on. Time to spar."

"Fine…" Luna grumpily got up.

Nashi looked over at Gale. "You can head home if you want."

"I will soon," Gale assured. He watched as Nashi led Luna onto the grass with pride in his eyes. Elbows on his thighs, he leaned forward to watch as both sisters switched from their familial affection to trainer and student. Luna took in Nashi's words that were born from experience and nodded at everything she said. The Wild puffed its chest, proud of his little female and eager to see her in combat.

I can't get over how happy I am she's putting in the effort to try. I was so worried and afraid when she stayed in her room all those weeks. I know she's still in recovery mode and skittish, but I'm so damn proud of her. He lunged for his Compact and took another swig of his drink as he scrolled. He blinked and squinted when he saw an email. Hold on…

Rubies widened. What the Hell is this?

---

The stables were only different from others because of the money and prestige put into the architecture. The horses given sanctuary here lived in some of the best conditions any horse could, with tender love and care distributed every day. From the way their ears flicked to the way they shuffled, the several grooms of the stables monitored the horses' behavior to make sure each horse was happy and healthy and in peak condition.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Savant Hall

Larkspur County

Fiore, Ishgar

11:30 AM FST

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Nora led the charge. A deep navy blue for his riding clothes made his eyes stand out while Ena had stuck to scarlet and had crafted an oceanic blue outfit for Silver. Ena smiled when the horses perked upon the arrival with ears forward and nostrils slowly expanding to draw in scents.

"You have magnificent horses," Ena complimented.

Silver stayed close to Ena as he looked at the hoses with wide eyes. "They're so big." He freaked a little and held onto the back of Ena's shirt when one horse snorted at him and bobbed its head. This is so freaky!

"Thank you," Nora appreciated Ena's compliment. "The late Marchioness, I heard, was quite the horse lover."

A throaty chuckle. "Aye, she was. And a mad gambler with them too."

Nora stopped them as an older woman shuffled in with a slight hunch, half-moon glasses, and laugh lines came into the aisle. He bowed to her out of respect. "Stable Master Robyn," he greeted. "I'm sorry for troubling you."

"Nonsense, My Lord," Robyn dismissed with a smile. "I'm always happy to assist."

⌜SAVANT HALL OF LARKSPUR

Name: Robyn Hackfield

Age: 63

Ability: Tamer

Occupation: Stable Master

Likes: late-night LV Dislikes: loose change

Special Note: Robyn might be an older lady, but she can out-drink almost everyone in the castle—except for Richard! Who she might have a thing for…⌟

Robyn laughed. "The late Marchioness might have been fond of horses, but she was a shit rider. She was a betting woman when it came to horse races. The moment the Marquis learned about her little addiction, he told me to make sure we could sponsor a rider and breed the finest horses. He always got a kick out of taking her out on the horses. She rode side-saddle." Her shoulders shook in mirth. "Oh, she was always so embarrassed about that."

"It sounds romantic," Ena gave.

"Aye. That it was." A spark of sadness entered Robyn's eyes before she frittered it away to bow. "Honor to meet you, My Lady." She came forward with her hand extended and grinned when Ena shook it. "I like her," she told Nora. "She has a good, firm grip. Maybe she'll get you to stop bribing your assistant to go run around."

Nora coughed into a fist, but both he and Ena had some fair blushes hounding their skin.

Silver held back his jealousy.

Robyn, however, turned her eyes to Silver and sized him up. "And I take it you're the attendant accompanying their rendezvous." She chuckled. "I remember when I was young too. You have your work cut out for you. The young lord is notorious for trying to ditch any attendants."

"I don't ditch them," Nora mumbled, ears burning.

"Oh, no, of course you don't." Robyn shot a wink at Ena.

Nora gave an exasperated sigh. "The horses?"

"Ah, yes, of course, this way, My Lord."

Robyn let them through the stables where three perky grooms awaited with brilliant horses, two stallions and one mare. The Shire horse was the largest and it was easy to see it was Nora's by the way the stallion got excited seeing its rider and a bit impatient. The mare was a gentle soul of a skewbald (brown and white) Gypsy Horse. However, the last stallion was a Friesian with attitude, all black and ominous.

Nora came to the Shire horse with a hand extended, and the horse eagerly bent his head, snorting softly as Nora stroked his snout.

"This is Moon Rider," Nora told Ena and Silver. "He's been my horse since I came to Savant Hall."

"We almost had no hope for him," Robyn told Ena and Silver in a murmur. "Moon Rider was severely depressed. We had buyers lined up to take him to a new herd out in the farmlands. But he perked up when he saw the young lord." She fondly smiled as she watched Nora and Moon Rider. "Now, he practically prances whenever Nora comes here."

Ena softened as she looked at the pair. "How lovely."

Robyn guided Ena to the mare, who lifted her tail, intrigued. When Robyn gave Ena a carrot, she offered it to the mare, who took it without hesitation and her ear only twitched when Ena stroked her nose.

Robyn introduced, "My Lady, this is The Duchess. She's one of our more maternal broads after fostering foals who lost their mothers, but she's fiercely protective of her herd. I thought she would suit you best today."

"Pleased to meet you, The Duchess." Ena stood back to give a small curtsy. "Thank you for letting me ride you today."

The Duchess bowed her head and stepped forward for Ena to rub her nose.

Robyn smiled before she gestured for Silver to join her. They stopped at the Friesian stallion for Robyn to tell Silver, "And this is Hades. Lord Nora let me know you're a beginning equestrian. Hades might look intimidating, but he listens well and goes easy on beginners."

Silver looked up at the black stallion and nervously gulped at the sheer power and size. He's…so big… He shuffled back on instinct.

Ena glanced over between Hades and the anxious Silver and said, "Miss Robyn, if possible, would The Duchess be able to handle both myself and my attendant? I admit I'm a bit anxious for the ride, and I'd feel better having my attendant with me to remind me of my breathing techniques."

Robyn thought about it. "I don't see why not." She shuffled forward to speak to the grooms for Hades and The Duchess.

Silver came close to Ena to offer her a weak smile of gratitude and relief and whispered, Thank you, mistress."

Ena pitched up an eyebrow as she paid attention to The Duchess. "Thank you for what? I have no idea what you mean. But if you're expressing your gratitude for being in my presence…" She tossed him a look. "You're quite welcome."

Silver snickered, but he let it go. That's my mistress. Always thoughtful and never showing face. He could feel his heart squeeze a bit. Thank you, Ena.

°•°•°•°

The trail Nora had chosen was a common dirt path made specifically for the horses with troughs of water and snacks available at certain checkpoints to allow the horses to recuperate. It was unusual for a noble's property to have a legitimate forest in their backyard. When the estates had been erected as soon as the monarchy established its aristocrats, most had whacked down the trees for steady grass and maintained gardens that, in present-day, thousands of people would visit. But with Savant Hall always meant to be the training ground for knighthood, two groundskeepers and their rangers kept the forest maintained and the ecosystem balanced.

Nora and Ena led their horses in a steady walk. It was adorable to see Moon Rider a bit sweet on The Duchess. With horses, their communication was rougher with bumps and bites and challenges. Both stallion and mare kept on alert, but Moon Rider would make a noise, snorting and bump The Duchess. Her tail swished, but she focused on the walk.

Ena had to smile. "Your stallion likes my mare."

"It'll be breeding season soon," Nora told her. "Odette handles a lot more with the horses. The Marquis has been having her learn how to manage our deals with other stables and learn the ins and outs of equestrian politics and racing." He patted Moon Rider's neck. "We don't have too many mares, but Odette noticed it too, how Moon Rider has been flirting with The Duchess. If she responds, Odette and Miss Robyn will go ahead with having them in the breeding program, but so far, she hasn't done too much. Moon Rider hasn't given up."

Ena chuckled. "Oh, so he's determined to have her hoof even if she doesn't give him the time of day? I didn't think horses were romantic."

"They have tells. We just have to observe them," Nora replied. "However, for what it's worth, I admire him for pursuing what he wants." He added softly, "If I had enough strength, I'd like to think I'd do the same. If the reward of my pursuit is to be in the presence of someone I've greatly admired…I'd be just as determined."

Ena pinkened a little. "I see." She stiffened and quietly huffed when she felt Silver's grip on her tighten. I understand he doesn't trust Nora, but he's acting like a child. I don't understand why. Shaking off her minute annoyance, she asked Nora, "Does this trail lead to the training grounds?"

"Aye. It does," Nora replied. "All knights are required to know how to ride horseback."

"It's intriguing to me about the Middle Era methods of knighthood," Ena commented. "My mother told me the world shifted into the industrial-technological revolution. A lot of Lacrima technology quickly became mainstream with upgrades being made to every aspect of our lives. And yet, our knights still learn horseback, the art of the sword, and even have their own armor. It's nice to see tradition being kept."

"But it's always the question of how far tradition can go," Nora finished for her. "Make no mistake. The knights must be trained in modern combat. While their weapons are more from the Middle Era, they go through the same training as any soldier since they're still part of Her Majesty's Royal Military, just a sub-branch. Some can be exempted from military training with recommendations from Holy Knights or the backings of my father or one of the Dukes, the ministers, or Her Majesty herself, but it's not often those with recommendations last long in the Holy Knight exam."

Nora snorted. "Some nobles send their children in the hopes they earn Her Majesty or the Church's favor, but many of their children go to college with me and are honestly some of the most spoiled people I've met. Others are kind and intelligent, but it's clear to me they were pressured into coming and drop out soon after."

"I'd be surprised if they didn't pressure their children." Ena sighed. "It's a common belief in many circles that, without Her Majesty producing an heir, the thrown must default to one she appoints since the Fiore bloodline is far too diluted to easily give a relative the right to claim the throne. Gossip throws around Her Majesty could have a potential lover."

"The Defense Minister is often in that speculation," Nora remembered. "I've met him on occasion—Defense Minister Aaron Marignano. He's always seemed very serious whenever I was present when he spoke with my father. But I've never seen him with Her Majesty."

Ena thought back to the Yule Cotillion and analyzed the first dance between Queen and her minister. At the cotillion, I didn't notice much out of the ordinary. They seemed respectful enough. But it was noted that he had her first dance and last dance. Maybe in the Middle Era, that was enough to know they were dancing on a courtship, but with us being in the Current Era…

She dismissed the thought and told Nora, "They seemed respectful enough to each other. Honestly, while politically I understand Fiore's hope for an heir, it makes me furious hearing such misogynistic comments about her needing a proper king. Queens and female Kings have ruled just as well as their male counterparts throughout time. I don't understand insistence and obsession for our queen to be tied."

Nora's lips quirked. "Are you speaking your anger just for the queen or is this personal?"

"Ha!" Ena threw back her head and laughed. "No. Goodness no. No, ah…" She smiled, but it was tinged with something sad. "While I have experience navigating intentional set-ups among the aristocrats I have contracts with…no." Those browns dimmed. "I learned at a young age independence is the only thing a person can rely on. To rely on another person… It can only bring great sorrow."

Silver frowned, saddened when that damp scent hit his nose and pressed into Ena's back. Ena…

"I suppose I'm on the contrary. I believe reliance can bring great joy." Nora gently added, "With the right person."

"Right person, wrong person—who is to say they aren't one and the same?" Ena challenged in a sniff. "It's one thing to take your vows and another thing to act on them. And who is to say those vows will remain absolute? All those promises to stay by each other are on a timer. And what's left is shards of those promises and yourself."

Her gloves tightened on the reins.

"I won't care if the right person were to come along. In the end, if I stay with them long enough, I'll see them turn into the wrong person before my eyes. And my independence will be the only thing I have left." Ena clenched her jaw. "So why bother?" Her cheek twinged. No matter what, I won't become someone's second. I was never anyone's first. Mother was my father's first before she and all of us became second. I won't let that happen to me. There's no point in doing that to myself unless I'm a glutton for punishment.

A flicker of something passed within Ena's eyes. No one is worth that risk. No one.

A tense silence engulfed all three of them as the horses clopped on.

"You're well within your right to request a life for yourself and yourself alone," Nora quietly validated. "I hope I didn't seem too insistent on a life you didn't want. I respect that choice. No one should be forced into a relationship that could crumble. But I suppose what stops you from making friends if friendship, too, is a relationship that could crumble?"

For that, Ena was quiet.

"We won't talk about this more if it upsets you," Nora soothed. "Dismiss my question. I overstepped and apologize." He looked on. "But I suppose…one could dream of the day of being relied upon by you without infringing your independence, couldn't they?"

Ena blinked in surprise. "Nora—" But what was she supposed to say? Tell him to stop dreaming? Instead, she resigned to say, "Yes. One could still dream."

The tension faded as a new silence hushed them.

Silver thought to himself, It hurts to hear she'd never want anyone, but…I understand her choice. She must've felt so alone and rejected growing up. I can't really imagine it. I always had family around, even when I didn't want them there. I know Ena had Lulu, but that was when Lulu was over, or Ena came to her. But all that time in-between…

His heart ached as he could imagine a small Ena in a darkened house, alone and quiet. All this time… I kept accusing her of being bitter and a hater of love, but I never really stopped to consider why she didn't like it. Even after Lulu kept begging for me to try and see it from her way…

He wanted to shake his younger self for all the insults he hurled and fights he had started. She's been hurting all this time. I know I said things in the past that must've hurt her. I guess she's right. Even love can bring great sorrow…

"She's the type of young lady who builds barriers to protect herself and doesn't realize others are willing to from hurt"—Erza's words breathed in his ears—"and perhaps teach her how to love."

Those blues glistened. How am I supposed to teach her that? It's not like she's wrong. Love can bring a lot of sadness with it. How could I show her any different than that? He sighed. I really think Master should change her bet. I'm not the person who could teach her love can bring great joy too.

The walk carried on with no more words exchanged until they came upon a checkpoint. The horses were tied and took a short water break while Silver, Ena, and Nora dismounted to settle down at the wooden gazebo close by that had been swept and washed down. Ena, still raw, had closed herself in and turned her cheek when Silver sat beside her, a little crestfallen. Nora sat across from them with those grayed yellows distantly thinking.

A nice quiet.

"You've indulged us long enough," Ena murmured as she tried to shove away her emotions of the past to stay in the present. "We're far enough away." Darkness settled in Ena's eyes as she dropped all formalities. "What are you hiding, Nora?"

Nora crossed his legs. "Thank you for being patient. You deserve the truth." He looked at Silver before staring at Ena. "You deserve to know the truth behind me becoming a Holy Knight…and about my mother."

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

"There's much to say," Nora told them both, "but we have a limited time before we're to be at the training grounds, so I'll try to fit in as much as I can."

"Start from the beginning," Ena commanded him.

Nora obliged. "My mother, then." Those yellows dimmed. "I know you both might not have a high opinion of her, and even I myself am not happy with her actions, but know that she's not a horrible person, just…easily led around by people."

He shoved a hand through his hair. "From how I understand it, my mother was an orphan when she was young. Her parents had died, and she had no relatives to take her in. But she said she was lucky that the Holy Mother had found her. She was taken into the convent to be a 'Daughter of the Church' so to speak and she always talks about how blessed she felt."

"I take it they enchanted her Saint Magic into her," Ena presumed.

Nora nodded. "That's correct."

Silver had to interrupt, confused. "Wait. You can enchant Magic into someone?"

Ena explained it. "Yes. But it's not something a Wizard Enchanter could do unless they were high level, like the Holy Mother, but honestly, it's still rare for Enchanters to be that level. Lacrimas filled with power can be enchanted into an object or someone more easily by Spiritless Enchanters. Without a Magic Spirit, they aren't as severely affected by the conflict in powers nor straining to flex their Magic Spirit to match the power within the Lacrima."

"But even so, Spiritless Enchanters are in danger because of their power output," Nora said. "If they facilitate too much power during their enchanting, it could cause the Lacrima or the object to shatter or set a rebound that kills them since their bodies weren't made for Ether consumption. It takes great concentration to do their job. Magic Engineers have it easier since they don't directly enchant. And the organic matter on the other end of the enchantment doesn't have it easy. The survival rate, depending on the Magic, is ridiculously low."

Ena sighed. "It's why Enhancer drugs are so popular, but even those are too risky. But many Dims use them to get power boosts or desperate Spiritless..." She shook her head in disgust. "What a nightmare."

Silver murmured his understanding. I know Ena is a high-level Enchanter, but… He vividly remembered battling against Erza as a Dragon. So then…that really was all me… His stomach clenched.

Nora returned to his tale. "So, yes, my mother was enchanted with Saint Magic and survived the ordeal mentally and physically in order to better serve the Holy Eye. She always told me how she was happy to do so and the Holy Mother was the mother she always wished for. And I know she means it." His eyes darkened. "However, her faith and love for the Holy Mother and the Holy Eye feels like it's looked at through rose-tinted glasses. Mother Clarion might do a lot of good, but… It's not enough for me to trust her or that entire organization."

"Why?" It was Silver who asked that question.

"Because for the Holy Eye to have dominated the religious world through no conquest but acceptance breeds instant distrust," Ena answered.

Nora nodded. "The Holy Eye is this benevolent organization that has saved countless churches and mosques and temples and monasteries from collapse. When Zentopia went under the new Archbishop, the Holy Eye was conveniently there to back them. They've provided countless sanctuary and even financially support the Sanctuary, regardless that it's an independent deity not even that Council or government can touch."

Silver frowned. "That island? But—"

"It's private property," Ena informed him. "The person who bought the island owns the air rights and the sea rights to the entire island. Because it's a quote-unquote 'residence', the Council can't enforce laws on a person's home, especially because they're rumored to be Spiritless." She looked at Nora. "I didn't realize the Holy Eye was involved with the Sanctuary."

"It's involved in a little too much, but no one has an issue with it because the Holy Eye doesn't have a list of demands outside accepting a hand of friendship." Frustration seeped into Nora's tone. "Others before me have pointed out that it's suspicious for such a large organization to ask for nothing to return. No monetary collection, religious infringement, a change in beliefs—nothing. You wouldn't even know the Holy Eye was involved since they don't publicly declare their newest allies. And my mother is overjoyed so many are willing to see the light of the Holy Eye."

Ena shifted as she crossed her legs. "And what of the Holy Eye has to deal with a deity called 'Mother'?"

"Your guess is as good as mine," Nora confessed. "I've asked my mother who this 'Mother' figure is, but all she would tell me was that Mother Clarion would tell her stories about 'Mother' and how she came to the Pope and to her and asked of her 'Children' to accept one another's differences instead of drowning each other in our shadows."

Ena pitched up an eyebrow and dryly said, "How lovely of her to do so."

"If you're not amused, I'm far less." Nora shook his head. "But Mother has an unshakeable faith within the Holy Eye. And that faith tends to skew her decisions. I've tried to ask her about the Holy Eye and challenged their beliefs, but…" He absently touched his cheek. "She didn't take it well. Since then, it was better for me to stop asking."

Ena nodded. "And that's when you started training to become a Holy Knight."

"Yes." Nora nodded back. "My mother told me my way to contribute to the Church was to become a Holy Knight and how Mother Clarion would be so proud of me in doing so. But the more my suspicions gathered about the Holy Eye, the more I understood the only way to understand their intentions—"

"Was to become a Holy Knight, gain trust, climb up the ranks, and become one of the Champions of the Church." Ena sat back with her arms crossed, chin lifted. "A bold strategy as long as you have them mental means to do so and if you can ensure their trust in you won't be wavered. The second they suspect something amiss, you will no longer have the option of getting on the inside. It's not enough to be subordinate, Nora, but you also can't act too eager. It's a fine line of balance."

"I know." Nora's lips twitched. "Infiltration has a high risk, high reward to it. But the latter is too great for me to ignore it for the former." His mirth fell flat. "I'm aware my mother meets with sisters and brothers of the Holy Eye, but for what purpose, I'm not sure. I do know that if something is wrong with the Holy Eye then whoever she meets with is planting a bug in her ear and easily so since she believes every word they say. I won't know until I'm on the inside."

Ena hummed, but she asked of him, "And did you not once think to use me as a means to your own ends?"

Silver looked a bit surprised at the bold question. "Ena…"

But she was not done. "It's no secret people believe I'm a strong Enchanter than I am. And considering the Holy Eye makes it a point to collect Enchanters and as an eye on me, quite easily you could have led them to believe you'd court me. As a future Holy Knight courting a potential high-level Enchanter, that would give you enough credibility to not only be let into the Holy Eye but be given the in you need to understand its mechanics."

"It would," Nora agreed, and he did not ignore the way Silver was looking at him with hackles raised. "Courting you and delivering you to the Enchant Convent would earn me an automatic bypass through parts of the Holy Knight exam and guarantee that if my knighthood comes to pass, I'll be given the same 'glorious purpose' as higher up Holy Knights. And if I married you, if you were hypothetical within the same class as Holy Mother, I'm sure becoming a Champion would be easy enough."

Ena slid a hand onto Silver's shoulder as though aware of his rising anger, but she kept her eyes on Nora. "However…"

"However," Nora continued, "I took several things into account. One. After Tristan helped me research you and Richard presented me a background check on you from the moment I laid eyes on you at your live-steel demonstration, I learned that you were the daughter of Dame Erza Fernandes and Jellal Fernandes, both considerable Wizards known for their contributions to the kingdom, even if Jellal turned down the offer of knighthood.

"But not only that, you had a line of prestigious awards for one so young, already passable in a few languages, and even first-place winner of Fiore's Linguistics Olympiad. I knew not only did you have a spine but a sharp mind. Acting the part of a smitten admirer won't fool you for a second since not only were you raised by two phenomenal people, but you inherited their intellect. I wouldn't stand a chance."

He held up a second finger. "Two. Considering Dame Erza never enrolled you into an Enchant Convent and you were a registered Mage, you would never trust an organization trying to seek out Enchanters with nary a goal other than to broaden your Magic. Which goes to say you'd be suspicious of me trying to become a Holy Knight and approaching you. You'd be on guard, and I would never get the chance to try and fool you."

Another finger went up. "And three." His eyes softened. "Because ever since I saw you that day, the only mission I had towards you was returning your rightful sword and having the honor of dueling with such a distinct and honorable swordsman. You had my respect. And my honor, I wouldn't disrespect you by pulling you into a plot."

Ena searched his face, eyes unreadable, for long moments. Then, a flicker of impression and approval crossed those browns of hers. "I may have had my doubts about you. But I have no reason to believe deception. You did well to take into account all of what you said before approaching you. I would've gutted you instantly for such dishonorable intentions, and we wouldn't want that."

Nora chuckled. "No. We wouldn't."

"However…" Her stare hardened. "You still haven't told me how explaining your situation to me benefits you. This was a sign of trust and honesty and to smoothen ruffled feathers—all that I can understand." She leaned forward. "But is that all you wanted—my trust—after explaining this to me?"

"Yes." Nora did not break his stare from Ena. "I understand it's hard to believe, and my words have little assurance to them, but I only wanted your trust that you can be safe in my care. I could use this as an opportunity to hedge my bets and see if you'd play the part of the lady I'm after. After all, it would be easy enough to believe since I'm sure the staff and my mother all think the same. But I have no intentions of bringing you or anyone else into my fight."

His hands tightened to fists.

"I've caused enough trouble for you," Nora said. "This is my fight alone and my trouble to make. Involving anyone else would mean invoking my burden on their shoulders." He clenched his jaw. "I refuse to have that happen."

Ena nodded in understanding. "I accept that. Well done." She added, "You have my respect and my well wishes in your fight." She stood up and walked over to him. "But just remember one thing…"

SHNK!

Nora looked as Soledia pointed at his heart, but he did not fear it. He stared up into those determined dark chocolates.

"Just know that in Fairy Tail, we all have our burdens to bear. It's something that I preached, but I never practiced," Ena declared to him. "I have my burdens to bear alone as well. My trouble is my own. No one else is to claim it from me. However, with some help, I'm beginning to understand that there are others out there willing to shoulder some of your trouble, your mistakes, and even victory without asking for anything in return. You asked me what stops me from making friends if friendship can crumble. Here is my answer."

Those browns burned. "It is those friends that you can rely on that will help you, even if you don't ask. Those friends who put you first even when you feel undeserving. Those friends who will want to become your shoulder to rely on, even when you reject them. I may believe that love can cause sorrow. But I'm learning that friends can cause joy and how much"—her eyes softened—"that I need them to make my burdens a little more bearable."

Silver smiled, proud.

Ena lifted her chin. "Perhaps you will triumph alone. But maybe you'll see how much you aren't alone in your quest. Your staff is loyal to you. Your friend Tristan, while entertaining, obviously respect and admires you. You have your sisters. You are not alone. It just takes time to understand how much you aren't alone after feeling it for so long."

For years, I felt trapped and alone. I was the one who had to brush away my own tears and move forward without anyone to stand on. But then…

Golden locks and gleaming chocolates.

…I found Luna. She made my smiles feel real. She was there to walk beside me. And I found Gigi who mentored me and guided me. And then…

Vibrant mayan blues.

I found you. You who broke through every harsh word I spoke to you. You who stayed when most would have left. You who dared to challenge me and my beliefs. You've made me feel…seen.

Ena flipped her blade so the hilt was above Nora's heart and understanding was in her gaze. "If you still want to proceed alone, I respect your wish. But know this, Nora. If you find yourself drowning, Fairy Tail will be there to pull you up. We have our faults, but we help anyone in need, even if you don't ask for it. And I would be most honored to share some of your burdens if it means you get a victory as an ally"—she smiled—"and as a friend."

Nora blinked, eyes twinkling. "Ena…"

"Touch her," Ena urged, "She has something to say."

Nora glanced down at the sword, and with another nod from Ena, he touched the hilt.

Sunstone gleamed.

Disbelief rose in Nora's expression. "She's…thanking me?" He looked up at Ena. "But…"

Ena took back her sword and dismissed it. "You should know by now swords have ears and, when you listen, they can be good advisors. She may not have had a happy lifespan after being separated from her late master. But she has vouched for you due to the honesty and trust you showed her. And if my own sword tells me I can trust you"—she extended her hand—"then I will do so without reservation, Nora. If you will have me as your friend."

Silver tried to contain how large he wanted to smile. I never thought she'd actually do what I asked.

"Make me a promise," he remembered saying. "Promise me you won't keep your heart so shut off. An-And… and that you'll share it with the people you can trust."

I felt so stupid and embarrassed saying it, Silver admitted. But… He remembered seeing Ena interact with Vinyl at the guild and lighting up how Vinyl raved about the music she wanted to use for Ena's collection show. He even remembered how she went out of her way to speak to others, smiling and laughing. Lately… She's been having us visit the guild during lunch to try and speak more to others. And now this… I might love her and wish she'd notice me, but… I can't help but be so happy she's trying to change. And it makes me love her even more.

Erza's words snuck back to him. "She's the type of young lady who builds barriers to protect herself and doesn't realize others are willing to from hurt…and perhaps teach her how to love."

I'm still not that confident I could teach her something like that, but… Silver clutched the material over his heart. I can show her I'm not leaving, and she could keep putting her trust in me. She might never love me the way I want, but…maybe…she could love me as her friend. Yeah. That would be enough.

Nora did something that made Silver gawk and Ena's eyes widen—he took hold of Ena's hand to kiss her knuckles and breath, "I would be honored to have you as a friend, My Lady."

Ena blinked as a fresh pink coated her cheeks while Silver was seething. "A-Ah…" She cleared her throat, but she was still a bit flustered. "Well… Th-Thank you, My Lord, for considering me as such."

Nora's eyes twinkled in amusement. "You know… By you showing up on my arm at the reception ball will fuel more speculation about us and my…heavy admiration of you."

"Yes, well…" Ena swallowed. "They're mere rumors. Nothing for us to partake in."

"I suppose, so… However…" Nora's lips twitched. "I wouldn't say…every speculation is a rumor. After all, rumors do have a slight truth to them." His smile broadened when Ena looked even more flushed and chuckled as he let go of her hand. "But you're right. Rumors are rumors. You'll show up on my arm, we'll make an appearance at the reception ball, and you'll leave in the morning." He rose to his feet.

Ena had to tilt her chin up to catch his eyes, but she froze when his chin dropped, and his next words were in his ear. "And I'll be counting my blessings I had the pleasure of entertaining a Scarlet Angel for a long time thereafter."

"A-Ah…" Ena weakly said, "Perhaps we've been out here far too long." She stepped back out of Nora's reach. "We should saddle up and continue to the grounds. There could be talk if we delayed."

"And what sort of talk would that be, My Lady?" Nora asked in good humor.

Ena waved a hand. "You know. They could think we decided to cavort away in this forest for impure means."

"Oh. My mind went to them thinking I might be brazen enough to challenge you to a duel after my epic loss last night to win back the Black Sun Sword." Nora could not keep back his mirth when Ena looked embarrassed. "But I think I like your thinking better, My Lady."

"Yes, well…" Ena sidestepped him and turned back to the horses. "We should still make our way to the grounds. Silver?" she called. "Come. Now."

"Coming, mistress." Silver stood, but he chanced a look after an interested Nora staring after Ena. He hissed lowly, "She's not interested."

"No. She made it clear to me about her lack of interest in any sort of romance. And I myself have no time to put into a relationship with my goal in place. That doesn't stop one from dreaming." Nora shot Silver a sidelong glance full of knowing. "Does it?"

Silver bristled, but he had nothing more to say as he stomped Ena. In his mind, a chibi rendition of him was committing voodoo as he put pins and needles into his "Nora" doll. Who does he think he is, making her blush like that? Ugh, I hate that guy! He sighed a little as he watched Ena tend to The Duchess. I might hate him, but he's right about that. I guess one can dream. It's all I can do, anyway.

Ena looked up when Silver approached her, a tad shy and bashful. "I suppose I was a bit theatrical with my words. I'm sorry you had to see me so dramatic."

"Not at all. You said what was on your mind," Silver gave to her.

"I can't say that everything I said was original."

Silver frowned. "What do you mean?"

"Well…" Ena hummed when The Duchess requested more pets. "L was always respectful to my boundaries and never forced me to meet people. She might've insisted, but she respected my decision when I put my foot down. But you…" She cut him a sharp look. "You really don't understand how to respect people's boundaries, do you?"

Silver blushed and sputtered, "I-I-I—!"

Ena sighed and softened. "Maybe…it's because you were so stubborn and tested me at every turn that I could do things like this. No one earns anything without pushing themselves out of their comfort zone. It's something I learned from fighting and fashion, but…not something I ever learned with friendship… Not until you came along. You don't knock on doors. You kick them down and force your way in. Irritating, yes, but…commendable. I suppose what I'm trying to say is…"

Silver blinked when Ena smiled up at him with her cheeks tinged.

"Thank you, Silver," Ena appreciated, "for helping me change into the person I am today. I couldn't have done it without you." Her smile widened. "So, thank you."

Blues glimmered. Ena…

Silver smiled shyly as he rubbed his neck. "Yeah, sure. Of course. It was no problem."

"It was more than you could know." Ena touched his shoulder to kiss his cheek before pulling away. "I really do need you. Never forget that." She turned away and failed to notice the way Silver cupped the cheek she had kissed. "Well. We'll need to mount—"

"Can I do it?"

Ena frowned and saw Silver shuffling his feet. "Do what?"

"Well, um… I want to take over and you can hold on to me." Silver reddened a fair bit. "I want to show you I can be reliable too…"

Ena lightly laughed. "Very well. But let me know if it gets too tiring for you." She moved back and watched him closely as he mounted the saddle with a small wince and had to simper when he tried to mask it. He's too stubborn to tell me he's tired. Riding a horse is more exhausting than people think. This fool. She untied The Duchess before she mounted onto the saddle behind Silver and slipped her arms around his waist. "Is this okay?"

"Y-Yeah. F-F-Fine." Silver gulped as he felt Ena's arms around him as he re-gripped the reins. She… She feels really nice… His nose tingled and panic shot down his spine. Crap! No, no, no, don't think about that!

Ena's low growl played in his ear. "You're not thinking impure thoughts, are you?"

"N-No, Mistress!" Silver yipped, terrified. Don't think about it. Think about something else—anything else!

Nora had untied Moon Rider and mounted him with the Shire horse ready to move. "Come. We'll keep walking to the training grounds." He squeezed his legs, and Moon Rider started in a walk.

"Ah, right…" Silver tried to swallow down his nerves as he goaded The Duchess into a steady walk. He grinned, relieved. This is easier than what Ena kept telling me. I can do this! I can show her how reliable I am! In his excitement, he accidentally kicked The Duchess's girdle—

The Duchess' eyes widened, and she let out a bold neigh.

Ena gripped Silver when both were throttled, eyes wide, when The Duchess spurred into an unprecedented gallop.

"What in the…!" Ena's eyes rage and she thundered, "Silver…!"

---

Perhaps Nashi would not admit it officially, but unofficially, Gary's condo had some of Nashi's personality in it. Now that she had been living in his condo for three months, much of her belongings had made the journey over, from her favorite movies to memorabilia. Býleistr even had his own cat trees and scratching posts. It started as a joke, but it was funny how he snuck into Cat Form to take advantage of such simple pleasures (though he was not amused when Nashi teased she could buy him a little box). For a man who constantly strutted about partially or fully nude and barefoot, his shoe closet was impressive, and Nashi had overtaken half of it with all her heels and boots and sneakers.

She was embarrassed when Gary got hyper having her belongings in his home and had to shut him down when he was more than eager to give her whatever money she wanted if she wanted to redecorate their place.

His place, she had to remind him. She would not be moving in with anyone until she was better established in life and only with careful consideration. Though she did have to admit, being spoiled with his bath and shower made it sometimes reconsider her words and his lovely neighbors made her reconsider.

Even if he got pouty by how she talked up Diego and she snickered when he got whiney how he offered to show her why he was named the Bachata Bae.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Gary's Condo

Magnolia Town

Fiore, Ishgar

12:05 PM FST

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Nashi had her Compact on ⟪ Speaker ⟫ with the LV playing a Magia cartoon as she folded and separated laundry without Býleistr around, and Gary on FaceCall.

She told him, preening, "You wouldn't believe how Luna was moving. She still has a long way to go with her being out of training for so long, but I was so impressed she's been listening to Papa and Gale's pointers on how to use her gymnastics and dancer background to her advantage. She bends like she's a string." She smiled, wide. "She'll become a pro with some time."

"That's great news!" Gary enthused. It looked like he was using his DAL in his office to talk while he typed. "Silver told me she was getting back into the swing of things, and I'm so proud of her."

"Yeah." Nashi sighed. "It's still clear to me she's still struggling, but to see her try makes me so happy." Her eyes fell as she slowed in her folding. "It took me so long to be brave enough to go downstairs. I'm so happy she's trying. But I wish she'd tell me what happened." Her hands clenched. "She promised me if that bastard raped her, she would tell me. She promised me as a Celestial Spirit Mage and a Heartfilia. We honor those promises. I just…"

Gary offered her a soothe, "Looney wouldn't lie to you." A thought occurred to him. "But…you also might have worded it in a way she might not understand."

Nashi's frown deepened. "What do you mean?"

"What exactly did you make her promise?"

"I made her promise to tell me if anything happened to her," Nashi remembered as she fudged around for her precise wording. "I had her promise she'd tell me if anything similar to what happened to me happened to—" Her breath caught.

Gary understood and gently asked, "I don't think Looney is lying to you. She's keeping her promise. But she might be shielding herself that nothing like with what happened to you did happen to her." His eyes turned sad as Nashi held her head in her hands. "Angel, give her time. I'm sure she'll talk when she feels comfortable."

"I know, I know, I just…" Nashi shook her head with a frustrated huff. "Never mind. How's everything with Uki and the north?"

Gary took the change of topic in stride. "We're improving. Miss Uki's still not comfortable working with Skade, but I've been able to help her with her Curse. It's getting easier for me to draw upon my power without Skade coming out." He frowned. "He's been quiet, though. Nothing bad, but he's just quiet. But at least Miss Uki and I are getting along better. I was pretty shocked when she invited me to a dinner with some other Shamans and their apprentices." He smiled. "They're all so interested in the world around them. I'm not a role model, but I'm happy to answer their questions."

Nashi smiled as she went back to folding laundry. "That's good. I'm happy you're settling in and making friends, Though, uh… Should I be jealous that Uki's going to steal you away?" she teased.

Gary chuckled. "You wouldn't be the first to ask me that. One of the apprentices asked me if you were okay I was around Miss Uki every day, but before I could say anything, Miss Uki reminded them she's aro-ace and if she did have a preference, it'd be you over me."

"Oh." Nashi's eyebrows shot up. "Well then. Tell her I say 'thank you' for the compliment." She and Gary shared a warm laugh. "How are you healing with the vasectomy and everything? I'm sorry I couldn't come up for a visit. Mid-terms, interviews, and S-Class training have been kicking me in the ass."

"It's fine. I'm healing okay. I might feel twinges here and there, but the surgeon will be back before I take you to Caracole for your spring break to make sure I'm completely sterile."

"That's good then." Nashi finished folding and went to shucking shirts and dresses onto hangers. "You do realize how insane it is you're taking me, Ellie and her girlfriend, Justin and his boyfriend, and then Jaxton and Tesla to your mansion in Caracole, right?"

"It's not a mansion," Gary defended.

"But you have hired help," Nashi pointed out.

Gary sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Yes, but my benefactor who gifted me the house from my commission had that help there. It transferred into my name. And those workers are only there between the time people rent out the house for maintenance. None of them will be there while we're there. I'm not that rich." He offered a sheepish look when Nashi's expression was of disbelief. "And I figured, considering the guest list, I don't want to chase away anyone when they see something they shouldn't."

"Amen to that," Nashi muttered. "I don't know what I'm worried for the most. Justin being unfiltered, Ellie sprouting a meadow, or Tesla and Jaxton practically screwing in public." She shook her head, clicking her tongue. "You signed up for more than you can handle, Master. Just sayin'."

"I think we'll be fine." Gary winced. "But we might have to break up Tesla and Jaxton every once in a while."

Nashi muttered, "Jesus. At least we're not that bad."

"Not that bad? Angel was more than happy to tell me how happily she'd get on her knees—"

"I was drunk!" Nashi cried, a horrified pink on her cheeks. "Y-You can't take the words of a drunk person seriously!"

Gary cocked his head. "Why not? They say a drunk man's words are a sober man's secrets. I don't mind that Angel wants to play in public." He beamed. "I'm more than happy to share all my fantasies of playing with Angel in public! I always wanted to—!"

"No, no, stop talking!" Nashi begged.

Gary laughed and crooned, "Angel is so cute when she's embarrassed." His eyes dropped and darkened, a heat barreling against winter. "And I think Angel likes what I'm saying."

Nashi looked down and eeped to cover her chest with an embarrassed look and her eyebrow twitching. "Quit staring, you perverted dog! This has nothing to do with you!"

"It doesn't?" Gary's tone dipped, honeyed and low and husky. "Does this mean if I tell Angel more of how much I fantasize about her…Angel still won't be affected?"

Nashi hard swallowed, shifting her thighs. "You're not playing fair, Master," she weakly protested. She sucked on her bottom lip when Gary looked like he was plotting something and whined, "Master…!"

Gary sat back with a breath puffed of frost. "Angel loves to tease me," he supposed in a mumble. "I'll play fair. Angel has guests coming over to our home soon and I want to take my time making my Angel shake and reach that high."

Nashi bit back her whimper.

Gary pulled back the lust in his eyes for a calm. "Speaking of guests, where's Býleistr?"

That soured Nashi's desire for dismay, even if her chest felt sensitive when she moved her hands away from it. "Licking his wounds somewhere that's not here," she huffed. "He and Uncle Loke decided to go at it. I can't believe it. I know they have their differences, but I really thought they could keep it together today." She shook her head. "I'm pissed off at the both of them. I can't believe this."

"Some grudges take time to get over," Gary soothed. "Whatever happened between them isn't for you to resolve."

"I guess not," Nashi muttered. "But that's the last time I'm training with both of them together. From now on, S-Class training will be with one or the other. It's better for everyone that way." She sighed. "I really can't wait for spring break, so I can sleep."

"Don't overwork yourself," Gary urged. "Take the time to rest when you can."

"I know." Nashi heaved her chest as she inhaled and exhaled. "I just—"

EEEEEEH!

Nashi grinned. "I think my posse has arrived." She got up to trot over to the little telecom by the door and pressed the button to trill, "Who is it?"

"It's Britney, bitch!" Justin laughed. "It's Daddy, baby, let us up! I have two women with me I'm dying to share with you. Top of the line hookers."

Nashi laughed and pressed the button to let them in. "Bring them up. And they better be worth my money." She dropped back with an amused shake of the head. "One of these days, Justin will be arrested with how much he sounds like a pimp."

Gary laughed. "Tell him you aren't for sale because you're priceless."

"How romantic of you," Nashi jested. "Just be warned. You're not getting any videos from me tonight."

"Really?

Nashi laughed when Gary looked so put-out. "No!"

"Damn." Gary grinned. "I was hoping to get more videos of Angel acting so liberally for my collection."

Nashi snorted. "Yeah. Codeword for your porn collection to get off to. No thanks." She perked when there was a knock on the door. "That should be them. Want to say, 'hi'?"

"Sure. I still have to compliment Justin a lot more, so he doesn't try to off me in Caracole."

Nashi rolled her eyes and unlocked the door and changed the protective enchantments, but when she opened her door, there were not three people outside but one very handsome one. "Diego?" She offered a confused smile. "What's up?"

Diego was one of those tanned men with megawatt smiles that made any person in the vicinity want to get to know him and play with those dark locks of his. He normally looked professional considering his line of work, but today, an athletic fitted t-shirt and shorts fitted him handsomely with his headphones around his neck. "Hey. Sorry to bother you, but Misses T's boys are sick and she's a little swamped, so since I was already on my way down to the gym, she wanted me to let you know she won't need you to come over tomorrow."

⌜CROCUS CLINIC – MAIN CAMPUS

Name: Diego Sepúlveda

Age: 25

Occupation: Adult Neurology Resident (PGY-3

Likes: podcasts Dislikes: his ex-girlfriend's cat

Special Note: Diego might be a good guy, but his ex-girlfriend's cat which she left with him tests his patience! ⌟

"Oh." Nashi frowned. "That's awful about her boys. But I understand. I'll check in on her tomorrow and see if I can give her some rest and help out."

Diego nodded. "Thanks. I think she'd like that. I'm stopping by too just to make sure their fevers broke." He noticed Gary was on FaceCall and grinned. "'Sup, Fullbuster. Still whiney I get to be close to your girlfriend while you freeze up north alone with your right hand?"

Gary grunted. "Bye, Diego."

Diego chuckled before he addressed Nashi. "My cousin told me you guys were going out to Soho. I offered to her this as well, but feel free to call me if you need any help. I'm off today and tomorrow, so I don't mind."

Nashi's brow furrowed. "Wait. 'Cousin'?"

The elevator doors spread open, and an excited squeal filled the hallway. "Diego!"

Nashi gawked when Tesla came skipping down the hallway with a garment bag over her shoulder and a duffel. "Tesla's your cousin?"

Tesla beamed up at Diego before she nodded enthusiastically to Nashi. "I told you I had a cousin who lived in Gary's building. This is him. And…" She socked Diego's arm and told him in rapid Sinnish, "Basta, stupido! Sé que singues intentado ofrecer, pero estaremos bien, lo prometo."

Diego offered a rueful smile. "Lo siento. Sólo estoy preocupado por ti, Tesla. Pero bien. Dejaré de ofrecer. Prométeme que tendrás cuidado."

"Sí, sí, sí, Diego." Tesla grinned and waved him away. "Now shoo. Go, Diego, go. Vomos, Diego, vomos."

Diego grunted and messed with her hair. "Whatever. I'll see you Sunday." He winked at Nashi. "See you later, Nashi."

Nashi was still gawking and even Ellie and Justin had their jaws dropped as they took in the striding Diego. "That's your cousin?" all three gasped. "The Bachata Bae?"

Tesla sighed. "Yeah. And he's a lot more annoying than y'all think." She caught Gary on Nashi's Com and cooed, "Hi, Gary. Your woman is totally thinking my cousin is a tall drink of water, by the way. Pretty sure her panties be a bit damp."

Nashi looked at Tesla, red and scandalized. "N-No!"

Gary chuckled. "Hi, Tesla. I might take you up on learning the bachata."

"It's something you observe and do, baby. Feel the beat with your hips and that fucking hot as Hell connection with your partner," Tesla puffed with pride. "And then you sneak off and bang like a hurricane against a screen door with all that pent-up energy. Highly recommend it. My wall got fucked by my headboard for that. No regrets."

Nashi sputtered as Tesla pranced inside.

Ellie and Justin came next, both drooling a bit after seeing Diego and admiring his backside before he disappeared into the elevator. Justin whispered, "Okay. If we knew you had the Bachata Bae are your neighbor, do you know how much stalking we would have done just to see that ass…and everything attached to it?"

"He's even more dreamy in person," Ellie sighed dreamily.

Nashi sighed as well. "Yeah, he really is."

Suddenly, Gary mumbled, "I'm dreamy too."

Ellie and Nashi exchanged a giggle before Ellie wriggled her fingers. "Hey, Gary. Don't worry. Our sweet girl only has eyes for you." She winked. "Trust me. She's been admiring your ass for a while." She dodged Nashi's swipe and cackled as she danced into the house.

"She's lying," Nashi hurriedly told an amused Gary. "She's high. She's been making weed plants."

Justin snorted as he kissed both of Nashi's cheeks. "Honey, I wish she'd stop being stingy. We could be making serious bank if we gave us a mary jane farm, but she says she has 'morals' or whatever. We need to get her drunk enough to get over that." He sniffed seeing the screen. "Gary."

"Justin." Gary perked being acknowledged and eagerly praised, "Your hair looks beautiful today. I love the style."

Justin fought down his pleased smile. His long blue locks had been done in dual buns with Zhōnguánese hairpins. "Yeah, well…" He grumbled under his breath when Nashi pouted at him. "Thank you. You don't look…bad yourself."

Nashi mouthed, Thank you.

"The things I do for you, sweet girl." Justin kissed her cheek. "Hang up with your man. We have a lot of getting ready to do. I know you got that wax, but we need to be prepared for anything that can happen tonight." He smacked her chest, making her laugh. "Time to perk up those tits, let that ass bounce, and make them pay for your drinks."

Nashi raised an eyebrow. "What happened to us using your black card?"

"I mean we can, but it's so much more thrilling letting stupid people objectify us and buy us drinks." Justin grinned when Nashi shoved him. "We're taking over your bedroom. Get your kisses and that last, meaningful orgasm in before you forget about him once we get turnt at Soho." And he strutted away.

Nashi sighed in amusement. "Last chance to beg me to stay before Justin turns me into a bombshell," she teased Gary.

"No, have your fun," Gary urged. "Jaxton, Ace, Ines, and I are having a lacrimagame night tonight while we wait for you all to get home and we've got to get in all our points for our fantasy MagiCross and hockey league."

"Aw…" Nashi cooed. "I love it when all the girlfriend and the boyfriends get along."

Gary chuckled. "I'm sorry I can't be home when you get home. I know you're upset with Býleistr…"

Nashi let out a heavy breath. "Yeah, he'll be here when I get home."

"Good." Gary softened. "I love you, Angel."

Nashi blushed and mumbled, "I love you too."

SMACK!

Tesla snapped from the master bath, "Hey! You smack it! You pay for it!"

"But it's so nice to smack!" Justin complained. "Come on…! Let your pimp do it for free? I like watching it shake."

"Oui," Ellie quickly said. "Oui, s'il vous plaît, plus.."

Nashi rubbed her temple. "I have to go. I'll talk to you later."

"Talk to you later, Angel."

SMACK!

A tick mark twinged on Nashi's temple as she ended the FaceCall with Gary to shout, "Justin, stop smacking Tesla's ass, and Ellie, stop encouraging it! Jaxton will murder you if she has handprints on there that aren't from him!" And as she stormed to the bedroom, her Compact showed what she had been looking at prior to her FaceCall. Instagraph showed a picture.

And it showed from Carlisle's account of a picture of him zoomed up on those hypnotic sea greens eyes bespeckled in violet.

---

KAPPO… KAPPO… KAPPO…

The horses clomped down the dirt paths with Moon Rider occasionally nudging The Duchess while her tail flicked. It was like watching the naughty boy tease the girl he liked. Noise would be picked up in the wind with the out to the forest dead ahead. It was a blessing to see how spring would come like a lion with no resistance from the elements.

"Herk!"

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Savant Hall

Larkspur County

Fiore, Ishgar

12:40 PM FST

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Ena had little sympathy for the nauseous Silver as she took the reins of The Duchess with his sorrowful green face and gurgling stomach. She sniffed, "Next time, you'll take an account not trying to show off skills you have not honed yet. When we get home, I'll speak with the stables I use for more lessons."

Silver mumbled, "Yes, mistress—Herk!" His cheeks puffed as he miserably got his nausea in check. He painfully bemoaned, "But I don't think I want to learn horse-riding."

Ena sighed. "We'll keep you as a beginner. As my assistant, this is a skill you must learn." When he groaned again with his nausea, she could spare a bit of pity. "We'll make sure you have a private place to rest when we get there. Lean on me for comfort if you need it."

Silver did so with ease as he tightened his hold and moved his nose to draw in her sweet scent. That alone quelled the war in his stomach and made riding more bearable. But he was kicking himself on the inside as chibi-Silver slumped. I tried so hard to be smooth and what do I get? I make our horse panic and practically sprint. And then Nora comes in and saves the day.

He puffed a cheek as he glared at Nora, all prestigious and gallant on his horse. Ugh. I really hate him. His stomach filled with dread. But what if that made Ena like him?

"My Lord!" Silver's imagination took off as he saw Fantasy-Ena, spellbound and lovingly smiling in her frilly dress as she rode side-saddle with Nora on his steed in a princely suit. "Thank you for saving me from that bumbling idiot. I'm forever in your debt!"

Fantasy-Nora purred, "But of course, My Lady. There is no debt to repay." And he thumbed her lips. "However, if you wish to make it up to me…"He leaned in. "I have only one desire I need from you…"

Fantasy-Ena dreamily sighed as she brushed her lips against his. "My Lord—"

Silver buried his nose into Ena's neck and shook off the fantasy. No way! I just have to show her I can be just as cool! He caught Nora's eyes when he glanced over and narrowed his blue stare. I'm onto you. You're not getting her.

Nora blinked at Silver's glower. Then he smirked.

Silver bristled as chibi-Silver flipped a table, ready to rage. What the Hell is he smirking at me for!

"I alerted the staff and the knights we would be coming," Nora told Ena. "The knight captains are eager to receive you and have prepared a small demonstration and a jousting tournament in your honor, My Lady. Perhaps while your attendant rests, I could accompany you to the ring for us to watch it together."

Ena's eyes sparkled. "I'd be honored to attend! I haven't been to a jousting tournament in some time!"

Silver held in his growl when the stir in his chest made him feel puffed up and agitated. He told Ena, "I feel a lot better. I'll come with you, mistress."

"Oh, Silver, none of that," Ena dismissed him. "You should get some rest. Nora can accompany me. I'll be fine in his care."

Silver's stomach dropped. "I'm fine," he stressed, his voice torn between envy and pleading. "Please, mistress?" He nuzzled her shoulder. "Please?"

Ena sighed. "Very well," she supposed. "Take it easy until your stomach feels better. That's not me asking."

Silver brightened. "Yes, mistress. I promise I will." He shot a smug look. Take that. You won't get her alone.

Nora raised an eyebrow as his lips twitched, but he looked on ahead.

Silver bristled. Bastard…

The walk broke them out of the forest in a few more moments. Ena squinted when the sunlight blinded her for a moment, but when she saw what was down the subtle hill, she gasped in wonder. "Oh, wow…!"

Even Silver's eyes widened. "Whoa…"

Nora smiled as he looked down the hill. "Welcome to the Savant Hall of Knights."

The training grounds looked like a secondary campus with the romantic architecture also modernized. It was clear a gymnasium had been built for intense workouts and even an academic hall was crafted for religious studies and other means. The track around the horse arena had many who were jogging and doing short sprints. The horseshoe stands had a few who milled about and stretched and prepped. A horse and its rider were out to practice. The mess hall was grandiose with the dormitories attached. It looked like it had once been crafted with the intention of hosting hundreds. The stables had their own grooms to care for those who brought their horses, and Robyn oversaw this stable as well. A few had on protective gear as they practiced with wooden weapons while others would uptake fencing. It was not uncommon to see Compacts and Sound Pods out and about.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

« This is the Savant Hall of Knights which hosts knights across the country and future knights-to-be in both the Holy Knight Trials and the Knighthood Trials. It comes with two pools, stables, dormitories, and running trails, its own staff, and even its own guarded drive. When there aren't trials, the Marquis allows the campus to be used for athletic camps—an idea that came from the late Marchioness! »

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Ena could not believe it. "This is gorgeous," she breathed. "Mother hopes to build a training facility similar to this on Fairy Tail property. Magnificent. Truly."

"I'm glad you approve," Nora said with a smile. "Almost every person you see down there is a knight. Those with recommendations and exempted military training are still knights. No matter if their nobility or not, they're equals here. Noble titles cease to exist." His grin broadened when Ena looked so entranced. "Are you ready to meet them?"

"Am I ever," Ena enthused.

"How about we turn this into a race down the hill?" Nora offered. "If I win…"—those grayed yellows glinted—"you'll have a private dinner with me."

Ena blinked, caught off-guard. "O-Oh. Um. That sounds…reasonable." She lifted her chin. "And if I win?"

"Ask and you shall receive, My Lady," Nora told her.

Ena hummed. "I'll consider my options." Her eyes glowed at the challenge. "Are you ready?"

Silver sluggishly blinked. "Wait… Ena—"

"On my mark," Nora told her, both tense. "And…!"

Silver grew fearful. "Wait—!"

"Go!"

Silver's eyes widened, and he jerked harshly when Ena and Nora got up and spurred their horses into a full sprint down the hill. Silver clung to Ena with his head spinning and pathetically moaned, "Ena—Herk!" Sick bubbles comically left him as his cheeks puffed and his face turned green. Why does my body betray me like this?

BONG…! BONG…!

Activities came to a stop as the bell run from the watchtower. All turned their eyes to the speed horses and excitement curated. Shoves and eager whispers passed around as everyone in the training camp gathered up with a wide berth given as both horses slowed in a canter and a steady trot before they walked. Moon Rider pranced a bit in a flirtatious mood towards The Duchess. The Duchess' flicked her ears with a gruff whinny, but she did touch her nose to his neck with a soft snip.

Ena scowled. "Dammit. It was a tie."

"Then we both win in the end," Nora said easily. "I don't really mind." He reined Moon Rider in with twinkling eyes. "I get to have the honor of a private dinner with the famed Enchantress. I'll count myself blessed."

Ena blushed a bit. "Keep in mind I still have options."

"And I intend to deliver whatever you wish." Nora raised an eyebrow. "I'm a man of my word, am I not?"

Ena could not fight that. "No, you're right…"

"Herk!"

Ena blinked and twisted back in complete surprise to see a nauseous Silver clinging onto her. "Oh, right. You're here too…."

How did you just forget about me after three days! Silver blearily blinked with sick bubbles popping around him and he lamented, "I don't feel so good…"

Two grooms hurried forward as Nora dismounted. Silver practically melted off with Ena behind him. She rubbed his back and gave the reins to the grooms. Before they could leave, she pressed a kiss on The Duchess' side and murmured her thanks before attending to Silver in worry.

"I'm sorry." Ena rubbed his back. "I forgot you were behind me."

I was clinging to you! Silver groaned as he leaned against her. "S'fine," he slurred. He burped and slapped a hand over his mouth. "I'll be fine after a walk around a bit."

"Here. Put your arm around me."

Green exchanged for red on Silver's face as Ena position his arm over his shoulder while she swung her arm around his waist. All that nausea he griped about was gone in exchange for butterflies in his stomach and a tingle when he drank in Ena's sweet scent. "U-u-Uh…"

Ena looked up at him, concerned. "Oh, my. Your face is flushed. We should get you to the medical area—"

"No!" Silver blurted. "I feel better, I swear! I just flush easily is all! All the excitement, you know?"

Ena frowned. "Well, you're certain…" She tried to pull away, but Silver tightened his hold, and she adopted an annoyed expression. "What happened to you feeling better?"

"I'm still a little weak." Silver coughed for emphasis. "See?"

Ena sighed. "My god, you're dramatic."

"Are you…really her?"

Silver and Ena looked up to see an awed tall woman with bulging muscles approach them had come to stand before the herd of eager knights and staff. Tan with deep blue hair and bright blue eyes, she looked like she was a pinnacle of strength wrapped in beauty. She gaped. "You're really Ena Fernandes, the daughter of Dame Erza?"

Ena smiled. "Yes. Pleased to make your acquaintance. And who might you be?"

The tall woman straightened and barked, "Attention!" All those in the crowd straightened with one arm curled and a fist over their heart and another arm behind their back. "I am Knight-Captain Yunifer da Capo of Her Majesty's Royal Knights from the Order of the Red Rose. And we, the knights of Her Majesty, welcome you to the Hall of Knights! Knights, welcome Our Lady!"

⌜HER MAJESTY'S ROYAL KNIGHTS – ORDER OF THE RED ROSE

Name: Yunifer da Capo

Age: 27

Ability: Expert Swordsmanship

Occupation: Knight-Captain

Likes: old-time musicals Dislikes: her sister's fiancé

Special Note: Yunifer might be tall, but you'd be surprised to find her entire family barely come over 160 centimeters! ⌟

"Welcome to the Hall of Knights, Lady Ena!" the others cried in greeting and let it echo throughout the camp.

Silver slid away as Ena stepped forward with her hand extended. "Noble cease to exist among knights. Respect me for my craft and nothing more. It's an honor to meet you, Captain."

Yunifer smiled back and gripped Ena's arm like they were war buddies. "Aye. It's an honor to meet you as well. I've had the pleasure of meeting Dame Erza during one of her master classes she gives to the knights. Your mother is an incredible swordsman. And you as well." They let go of each other's arms for Yunifer to look at Silver. "And who's this one? A friend?"

Silver offered an uneasy smile. "H-Hello. I'm—Gah!"

Yunifer boomed with laughter as she held Silver with her arms gripping his biceps. "Look at him! We'll have to feed him a little more if he hopes to join the knights, won't we?" She set Silver down.

As Silver's head dizzied and he tried not to get sick again, Ena introduced, "This is Silver Fullbuster, Prince of the Sea of Fairy Tail and my attendant for the duration of my stay at Savant Hall. He has no interest in becoming a knight, but he's quite the swimmer. Nationally ranked."

"Oh-ho." Yunifer raised an impressed eyebrow while Silver looked embarrassed Ena had talked him up. "That last name…" she remembered. "Ah, you must be the son of Juvia and Gray Fullbuster, yes? Gary Fullbuster is your brother?" She boomed with laughter (to be honest, Silver hid a bit behind Ena). "I remember that devil of a man. Would've made a fine knight with his skills. But we're grateful to him and your parents and that Railgun of yours for helping us out with environmental training."

Yunifer turned to Nora, and they gripped arms. "Nora. Run off again to play 'knight'?" she asked him good-naturedly.

Nora smiled back as they let go of each other. "Not today, Captain. Ena's excited for the demonstration and jousting tournament you've prepared in her honor. I hope you'll impress her." He offered Ena a slyly amused look. "I don't think I've done much with impressions since I lost to her in my duel."

Yunifer laughed again. "You'll win back your honor in time if you stick around here long enough." She turned to face the masses and bark, "Prepare for battle! Armors on, weapons out! You have a future dame in your presence. You will fight with honor and respect. What's the rule on the field?"

"'Fight or forefeit',' everyone recited.

Yunifer nodded her approval. "You will honor our guests by fighting until you can't. Prove your worth to yourself and to your opponent. Go!" As everyone scattered, eager for their chance to show off, she turned back to Nora, Ena, and Silver. "While they prepare, I'll give you a tour of the camp."

Ena beamed, giddy. "Splendid! I can't wait!"

A pleasant smile. "Captain, we'll take it from here."

All looked up as a smiling Mauve and Cinders approached. Yunifer's smile turned hard while Nora's amused expression slipped for a stoic one. Even Ena schooled her features, but surprise came to her when Silver grabbed her hand. She glanced to see a hard look on his face.

Yunifer offered a knightly salute and greeted, "Knight Commander Mauve and Knight-Captain Cinders." She bowed her head before she straightened her arms, jaw taut. "I see you are still in camp."

Mauve hummed her titter. "Of course. We'll be on the council of Holy Knights presiding over the exams. We couldn't help but overhear about the demonstration and find it a delightful idea. Perhaps Her Ladyship might reconsider to join the Holy Knights once she sees the power of potential Holy Knights."

"Thank you, but I withheld my rejection," Ena said, polite. "I will, however, enjoy the tournament and the demonstration."

Mauve cocked her head, still smiling. "I'm sure you will. As well we. Knight-Captain Yunifer, you should prepare as well. We can show Lady Ena around the camp. I'm sure you have to get ready as well."

Something flickered in Yunifer's eyes, and it was not pleasant. "Of course, Commander." She turned to Nora and Ena. "Please enjoy your time at the Hall of Knights." She saluted Mauve and Cinders before walking away.

Mauve stepped forward. "Lord Nora, Lady Ena—it's wonderful to see you both recovered from such a traumatic experience. I trust the investigation to find the ones who ambushed you is still underway with urgency?"

"It is," Nora informed, tone emotionless. "The inspectors should have suspects lined for Ena and I to identify within the next day or so."

"That's great news!" Mauve cheered.

"How exactly did the pair of you escape with such severe injuries?" Cinders bore his eyes onto Silver. "Were there guards in the forest to assist you?"

Silver refused to shy away when Cinders stared him down. The stir in his chest made it vibrate, and his teeth ached as his lips started to curl.

"We must have had a guardian angel," Nora smoothly deflected. "We've both given the inspectors all we can about the case."

Cinders lifted his chin while Mauve clapped her hands. "Marvelous! I'm sure they'll have results back soon! "Although, My Lord, I heard you had yielded prior to the ambush. My apologies for your loss and for you, My Lady, congratulations on your win. I trust you played by old Duel Law and won his weapon?"

Ena nodded primly. "I did."

"Even more great news," Mauve enthused. "Lord Nora's sword is quite the unique one." Her eyes cracked to show a glimmer of star pupils. "It's almost as if the sword has a strong will of its own…and requests an equally strong will to wield it."

Nora spared Ena for answering. "I think I will take Ena on a tour of the campus. You may take your leave, Knight-Commander."

"We will." Mauve hummed her titter. "But we wanted to introduce you to someone special."

Nora lifted an eyebrow. "Who?"

"Ah… This must be the Enchantress."

Silver's eyes went wide.

Ena stiffened. I… I didn't even sense him behind me…

"A true Child of Her." A wide beam. "What a wondrous gift."

Ena and Silver turned around to see an older man behind them with a colorful pallium on his head with salt-and-pepper wavy locks and his red and gold chasuble covering his body. His beard was a healthy black and white as well, and the rings on his fingers symbolized his worth and accomplishments within the clergy. With glasses placed on the bridge of his nose, you could see those dark-brown-almost-black eyes of his.

Mauve introduced, "My Lady, this is the Fioren Primate of the Holy Eye and Her Majesty's Church—Father Johannes."

Father Johannes smiled down at Ena with those dark eyes. "Yes. Mother Clarion is excited to meet you. As am I, Ena Fernandes." That smile sharpened. "You have the true potential to become a Child. Oh, yes."

His glasses glinted as he watched Ena's eyes gradually steel over. "A true Child indeed."

---

— • — • — • —

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

— • — • — • —

---

CLICK-CLICK-CLICK.

Irina strutted down the hall with Trinity close by. Staff bowed in their presence, but Irina had no time for her normal quick smiles and greetings. She was on a mission, and she had to move. She approached arched doors with two knights succinctly guarding them. Both bowed in her presence, and one opened the smaller door for her to enter with Trinity quickly coming in after her.

The castle chapel was small and clearly from the transitional phase from Old Era to Middle Era, but it had been properly looked after time and time again with the brick re-grouted and cleaned and the wooden bunches given cushions in the hopes the traditional benches would not crumble. The stained-glass piece, however, was different than most chapels. On the right, a stained-glass contained a kneeling Agent and their black wings while the left had a Demon and their blackened wings. And both good and evil, life and death, white and black bowed to the middle stained-glass piece and the largest one.

A glorious praying woman with a bandage over her eyes and flowing hair.

Trinity stayed in the aisle as Irina came to the altar and looked at the praying woman in such reverence, like she loved her, like she worshipped her.

"Sister Irina."

Irina turned to see the cloaked High Brother come to the altar and bowed to him. "High Brother."

"Have you found the rogues who dared harm the Enchantress and your son?" High Brother asked.

Irina looked frustrated as she confessed, "No. But it looks like some of our security footage was damaged, so the inspectors are having one of their investigators recover the footage." She hugged herself. "I can't believe they snuck in and hurt my Nora." Devastation raked through her words. "I've never been more terrified."

"The bond between mother and son is one none can duplicate, but we can empathize," High Brother smoothly said. "Your terror was shared with our brothers and sisters. We thank Her for allowing Nora such a swift recovery." A pause. "And the Enchantress has made a full recovery as well?"

Irina nodded. "Yes. She's fine. Nora's taking her to the training camp."

"Excellent, Sister Irina. Our brothers and sisters will be pleased your son will properly court the Enchantress. Such a high honor to you and your blood. She will recognize you with pride that you raised such a brilliant young man."

Irina smiled, pleased. "Thank you, High Brother. I couldn't be more grateful Nora's smitten with her. I was worried he wouldn't like her." She laughed. "But my son knows beauty when he sees it."

"That he does." High Brother shifted closer. "We will continue to monitor the progress of their relationship. We're eager to hear news from you, Sister Irina, once he publicly declares their courtship."

"You'll have it soon," Irina enthused. "I'm sure he'll ask her after the reception ball."

High Brother smiled. "Very good." He shifted. "Now, Sister Irina, we understand we agreed to show at the reception ball, but she was too impatient to see her favorite daughter."

The door to the chapel opened.

Irina turned with her eyes wide, shocked, but that surprise faded into childish love and glee. "Mother," she whispered, smiling. "I'm so happy you're here!"

"My sweet daughter Irina." Thin lips with a pearly-white smile as a pendant with clasping hands glinted and fingers traipsed in rings gleamed in all their jewels. "Mother is so happy to see you again."

---

Voices of Characters in Order of Appearance

— • — • — • —

Silver Fullbuster – Yuri Lowenthal

Gale Redfox – Greg Cipes

Gajeel Redfox – David Wald

Ena Fernandes – Xanthe Huynh

Richard Caine – Tom Hollander

Nora Gosling II – Brad Swaile

Luna Dragneel – Brynn Apprill

Loke – Eric Vale

Nashi Dragneel – Lauren Landa

Býleistr – Josh Tomar

Carlisle Justino – Eric Scott Kimerer

Dante Princeton-O'Neill – Adrian Petriw

Erza Fernandes – Colleen Clinkenbeard

Gary Fullbuster – Griffin Burns

Justin Justine – Ian Sinclair

Diego Sepúlveda – Matt Ellis

Tesla Greer – Galena White

Eliana "Ellie" Strauss – Aleixs Tipton

Yunifer da Capo – Meredith McCoy

Mauve Herring – Shelby Lindley

Cinders – Brandon McInnis

Father Johannes – Marc Diraison

High Brother – Joe Ochman

Irina Gosling – Pamela Merrick

Mother Clarion – Linda Leonard

• — • — •

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 105

•

DINNER AND DESSERT

— • — • — • —

•

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WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A MOTHER, ANYWAY?