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!

106. Adventure 106

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.

---

LAST TIME, on Fairy Adventure: the Hall of Knights was ready to impress their guests, but not all their guests are welcomed ones with the arrival of Holy eye Fioren Primate Father Johannes. Gale's trip to The Society for his summer program had us meet Nice Genoard who filled him in about his possible time with Jura—if he can get his house in order. Back to Larkspur, Silver and Ena make a friend out of Beatrice and Marinette, but Silver's making an enemy out of Cinders and Ena isn't aware how close her own enemies are. Luna's meeting of Carlisle's boyfriend Dante goes without a hitch—until she has a horrible vision about the death of his teacher by a man with familiar blue eyes. Just when we all thought Ena and Silver were headed one direction, they veered the other with Silver's trauma rehashing itself in the face of Ena's stubbornness. Tesla, Nashi, Justin, and Ellie head out for a night on the town, but Tesla's triggered memory of Ezra clues in on important pieces of his history with Saudade. With Silver finally learning how to be indifferent, Ena is left more alone than before. But it looks like someone else is coming in to fill the void,

"Yes. How wondrous it is to meet such a supple young rose."

Atticus Gosling is in the building, but I'm not getting a cheerful vibe from him. And Justin, let your boyfriend spoil you. What I wouldn't kill for that…

---

"Erica, your mac-n-cheese is wonderful like always!"

No one in the annex had anticipated Atticus' arrival and that was clear as a dreary, awkward aura hung over the dining room while Atticus looked bright and shiny as he munched on his food. Richard, Carson, and Meg had come to a truce for a heavier drink while Nora had lost his appetite.

Atticus helped himself to more prime rib. "You always cook the meat to such perfection! I'm envious my baby brother got you before I did!"

"Thank you, My Lord," Erica appreciated, uncomfortable. "But your chefs are phenomenal people. I'm sure I can't compare."

Atticus gayly laughed. "You're so humble, Erica. All of you are phenomenal. I can't cook to save my life. I tried to bake cookies for Sylvie when we were younger, but I ended up burning them all!"

The dreary awkward atmosphere intensified as Atticus continued laughing without a care in the world.

Silver had no stomach for his food. I can see why everyone said he was 'cheerful'. He doesn't really read the room, does he?

Atticus turned his focus on Ena with his beam and told her, "It really is delightful to have you here in the estate, Ena. Sylvie would talk my ear off about your fashion. I can't say I'm that fashionable myself, but just from Sylvie's words alone, I can tell you're talented. And you made both gowns for my sisters for the ball too?"

"I did." Ena said with her wineglass in her hand. "When the duel was scheduled, so were their commissions and their ideas for their gowns weren't difficult at all. I hope you'll enjoy them."

"How could I not? I'm sure they'll be absolutely lovely," Atticus chirped. "Mother told me you'll be in attendance with my little brother at the reception ball. How cute." He pinched Nora's cheek, which looked more comical than it should have been, and teased, "You'll both look so adorable matching like an adorable little couple."

Nora waved Atticus' hand off him. "We aren't a couple."

"Oh, come now, don't be like that." Atticus pinched Nora's cheek again while Nora's flush proceeded him. "You looked so excited about her coming to the estate, little brother. You can't hide that blush from me…!"

Nora's flush furthered. "Atticus…"

Ena felt like she was watching chibi versions of both brothers and sweatdropped. Goodness. Atticus definitely seems like a different breed. Her stare routed to Silver and for a moment her browns caught his blues until his face hardened and he looked away. She clamped down on her hurt to sniff and drink more wine.

Atticus turned his focus back to Ena with a chipper smile (while Nora rubbed his cheek and looked at his brother darkly). "So, My Lady, I can't help but be curious about your life," he told her. "You're quite the accomplished little rose. I can't help but feel a little intimidated myself by you."

"I'm nothing more than a seamstress and a designer, My Lord," Ena told him with a small smile. "My mother might deserve the feeling of intimidation as she's highly skilled, but I'm afraid I'm not as accomplished as people fear me to be."

Atticus chortled. "Such a humble little rose!" He nudged Nora. "You could teach my baby brother a thing or two about that," he jested.

Nora's face darkened.

Atticus went on without care: "I understand the need to downplay your talent, but there's no need for you to be so modest around me, My Lady. I'm aware you're quite the gifted, refined young rose, and I have nothing but respect for your talent." Nestling his chin between a propped hand, he looked at Ena with his innocent smile. "I dare say we haven't even scratched the surface of all your gifts, My Lady. I'm sure you have so much more potential to show the world…"

Under the table, his free gloved hand thumbed the strands of fallen scarlet.

"…and I'm looking forward to witnessing it first-hand."

And his smile widened.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

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

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Ena retreated into her bedroom and leaned against the closed doors. A sigh escaped her as she closed her eyes, but her eyebrow began to twitch in agitation and her hands clenched. That dinner was just so…cheerful.

"Tell me all about your training regimen!" Atticus had had a flower aura and halo around him at his beaming request. "I want to hear all the details!"

Some point in the conversation, Atticus had gasped. "You mean to tell me you killed a Basilisk?" His eyes had glimmered. "Please, tell me more! Hearing your stories would be music to my ears!"

"My Lady, you truly are magnificent," Atticus had praised her with those grayed yellows charmed and his smile sweet. "It's an honor to meet such a distinguished young rose. I'm sorry to even use 'rose'. Not even roses can compare to your scarlet mane."

Ena shakily ran a hand down her face. He's friendly—too friendly. She ground her teeth imagining a chibi-Atticus with his darned smile and a halo around him. The entire atmosphere once he arrived was uncomfortable. In all Atticus' friendliness, it's easy to see no one at the table trusted him—especially Nora. Yet I'm told everyone adores him.

She covered her mouth in thought. I wish I had more to study on him, but anything I found about him was glowing in praise. Dark chocolates darkened. Is it because he and Nora are in the race to be Marquis that there was tension, or is there more to him than meets the eye? Another sigh. Just another mystery with this estate. Everyone here seems to have a different motive.

Ena pushed herself off from the doors to head to her room, but those browns glanced at Silver's closed door. He ended up helping the rest of them while Nora escorted me back. How mature. She flicked her hair. If he wants to continue this petty game, so be it. I won't stoop to his level. She slid open her doors and, against her better judgment, glanced back at Silver's door before steeling herself and heading inside.

°•°•°•°

ZAA-ZAA…

Considering the bath from before dinner was enough, a light shower would suffice. Her hair might have looked enviable, but her mother had to teach her special maintenance was key. Fingers massaged her scalp with her special shampoo for a two-wash-rinse-repeat cycle. As she let the shampoo sit for a moment, she blinked when a large droplet of water fell down her wrist, down her palm, down her finger, and dripped onto the floor.

Angry mayan blues.

"You want to know why I'm angry? Why I'm upset? Yeah, it's because of you! It's because you put yourself in danger when you didn't have to! And it's because I had to see you look like you had shattered, and I couldn't protect you from that!"

Ena tipped her head and let her lashes fall as the spray sluiced her.

"Those people who use Anti-Ether kidnapped my brother for three years, and you want to tell me you can handle this when I had to listen to him scream in his sleep, begging to die?"

Dark chocolates cracked open in a lifeless swirl. A small breath expelled. I don't understand. She looked down to watch the water pound onto the ground. It's not like I knew about Gary. I remember he had been kidnapped. I wasn't around him much when he came home, but I never doubted it scarred. But that's different from now. I might not know the details behind Gary's kidnapping, but…

Her hands fisted before she tipped her head up and rinsed her hair. He doesn't know the type of training I had to undertake. I had to learn the world was unforgiving. Magic or not, I learned to defend myself. I've grown up learning about poisons and drugs and illegal spells and Magics. I had to learn to handle myself.

Fingers trailed her arm where she remembered the prick of the syringe.

Dark chocolates hardened. Whoever those people are, I'll learn how to handle them too. I can't afford weakness. And I refuse to be helpless again.

"Perfect Ena Fernandes still feels invincible." Mocking.

Venom. "I'm not about to argue with a selfish lunatic who thinks she changes a chance against Hunters!"

"I'm not going to listen to your hero speech about how you can handle this." Silver's voice filled with disappointment and despair. "They got Lance. They got uncle Gajeel. And they're stronger than you. So don't tell me you can handle it when people like that are after you."

ZAA-ZAA…

Ena's brow knitted under the strain of her agitation. I understand I'm not as strong as others before me. My defeat against Mother reminds me of that enough. But that doesn't mean I can't get stronger. Water streamed down her neck. And I'll make sure to get strong enough to take down whoever comes in my way—

PATAN!

Ena blinked, surprised. He's back?

°•°•°•°

Silver turned on the lights and stumbled into his room. A grunt he could not help came out when he sat on the bed and kicked off his shoes. He took a beat before he got up and unlocked his door, but his ears picked up water.

She must be taking a shower. He shut his door. Not like I want to talk to her. He went back to the bed. One of these days, he would thank his father for being an exhibitionist because it took Silver half the time to strip down to his boxers than it would someone else.

Dinner was definitely weird. He fell back onto the bed. That Atticus guy was even weirder. His blues darkened in thought. He might've seemed all friendly, but something about him was off. He was being sincere with everything he said, but it felt like what he didn't say felt more important. Another loud exhale. It was like talking to Gale, but it felt worse.

Resigned dark chocolates.

"I had resigned myself to going out alone. I didn't think anyone would come for me. Why would they?"

Furious dark chocolates.

"You're overreacting, Silver, grow up! I know the risks! I can handle the risks! If you're sensitive and can't handle what I deal with, that's not my fault."

Silver rolled onto his side with a depressive expression painted on his features. I know you're strong. But you're not invincible. He splayed his hand beside him. I thought Gary was invincible, but…

"No… No… No, don't make me! Please!"

• — • — •

The focus stood outside the door with a young Julia in her pajamas, holding his hand. The sob-screaming and the frigid temperature were enough to jolt them both awake, but neither had the strength to go in.

"Don't make me!" Gary cried, strong with agony. "Don't make me! Kill me! KILL ME!"

Footsteps crashed down the hall. The focus whipped up to catch a glimpse of his mother with teary eyes as she pulled him and Julia back. He whispered to her, shaky, "Mommy? What's wrong with Gary?"

Juvia crouched and huddled Silver into her chest while she held Julia at her side. "Gary is just having a nightmare," she explained, keeping her tone even. "But Juvia's Beloved will help him." She picked him up, resting him on her hip, while she took Julia's hand. "Come. Time for bed."

A door opened and a gust of winter billowed around them, severe and grieving.

The focus turned to watch Gary's room swirling in snow and ice, but he could not see his brother. He heard his sobs and his screaming. "Kill me, please! Don't make me! Don't make me kill them!"

"Gary, I'm right here." Silver could hear his father's tone, just as even as his mother's. But his grunts suggested his attempt to restrain Gary was harder than it looked. "You're not there, Gary, I promise. You're safe."

Gary sobbed and pleaded, "Kill me. Monster. Monster."

The winds from the howling storm within Gary's room forced his door to swing wider. The focus caught a glimpse of Gary as icy tears streaked his cheeks and a glacial blue glowed in his eyes. Bleeding marks on his arms and neck came from frantic nails, but their father had restrained him, hugging him close and whispering words Silver would never understand, before the focus was swept into his bedroom.

• — • — •

Silver's hand dug into the sheets as his eyes clouded. "Tch." He kept himself steady in his breathing.

All because he's a Devil…they tormented him for three years. It didn't matter how strong he was. He tried so hard to be normal and smile all the time, but at night… His nightmares would start. He'd try to act like nothing would happen in the mornings, but I kept being afraid for him to go to sleep…and I know he was afraid too. That's why…

"I'm moving out."

• — • — •

What news to start off with at breakfast time, but Gary held a calm smile and sad eyes at his declaration. It was normal for such an event to be joyous—a sign of adulthood and maturity—but no one could have anticipated this to happen when he had yet to be an adult.

Gary continued as he pushed around his breakfast: "There's a place I found within Magnolia. With my new S-Class salary, I can afford it without any co-signing. I negotiated with the landlord so I could be the head of the household. I won't be taking much from my room except for my clothes, my art supplies, and a few other things."

Complete and utterly stunned silence.

Their mother gently breached, "Gary… Juvia thought Juvia, her Beloved, and Gary spoke about this—"

"I know, Mom." Gary kept his calm smile. "I know we did. But I signed the contract, and my new stuff will be coming in later today." Those ceruleans swirled with something dark and tragic, but he kept on smiling. "This will be good for me. I need to be on my own. And really, it'll be a better deal for you." He hummed pathetic laughter. "At least everyone can sleep easier."

Their father's jaw went rigid before he said, "Gary—"

"Dad."

That smile held strong.

"I've troubled you enough. I'll be okay on my own, so there's no need to worry about me. Nothing will happen." The smile widened. "After all, I'm a lot tougher than I look being a Devil. I'll be fine."

A tear slipped down the corner of that smile.

• — • — •

Silver curled in on himself. After that, the house felt cold for a while. I don't think any of us could sleep well. It wasn't like Gary didn't call or come over, but it all felt…like he kept himself at a distance, even when he lived at home. I remember he used to visit Igneel the most. Lulu told me Igneel wouldn't eat or do anything, but Gary was the one to talk to him and feed him until he could start eating for himself.

Those blurred memories of being in the Dragneel home and pausing to see a young, deadened Igneel returned. Nothing could spark his lifeless gaze. The gauntness of his face, his slouching—he looked like a living corpse. Gary sat next to him and he fed him. Whatever Gary whispered inspired Igneel to barely swallow, but at least he did it.

Silver sighed. It wasn't for a while until his smiles felt real and, even then, it felt pretty rare to see them. People always raved about him and his skill and thought he was perfect and unmovable… But they never saw what happened and how he wasn't whole. It was like…he might've had all the pieces, but nothing fit like it should have. He was still my brother, and he still looked after me, but… He felt so out of reach sometimes.

He clenched his hands as his eyes clouded. How could Ena think she stands a chance against people who could do that to him? They stole him from home and did horrible things to him.

Unique eyes with three dots around the iris.

They stole us. Silver trembled when his eyes stung. In Margaret Town, they stole us.

He winced when he could remember his cage unlocking. Fearful, he had tried to lash out against his handlers, but he remembered his mother and uncle screaming for him when he slammed into the ground, breaking his nose, and his hair was yanked, some strands being ripped. The rattle of the chains sent sickening shivers down his spine, and those phantom pains of the brutal assault made his stomach contract as hot tears marred his cheeks.

"Your father saved me once." Unforgiving eyes and hard tone. "I'll honor that moment in making sure you feel less pain than normal."

Silver sucked in his cry as he balled himself up on the bed. His heart raced, goading for his breaths to radicalize, but he frantically kept his breathing in check with shaky inhales and streamed exhales—

KNOCK-KNOCK.

"Silver?" A hesitant call. "Are you…? Are you okay?"

He was not okay, but he felt if he spoke, nothing but a sob would come out.

"I… I'm coming in, okay?" Never had he heard Ena so uncertain and nervous. "I understand your reservations against me"—the doorknob turned—"but I thought we could discuss this in a calm, rational way and… Silver?"

He cringed away from her when she rushed to him and got on the bed. He forced through a whimper, "Leave me alone."

"I can't do that," Ena whispered, horrified to see him so distraught. She tried to touch him, but he turned away. "Silver, please, let me help you." It was strange to hear her plead and desperately at that. "What do you need? Please, I'll do anything."

"'Anything'?" Silver sniffled as his traumatized despair fueled into an irrational rage. "What can you do?" He forced his body to sit up and glared at her through his shaking and his tears. "What you can do is realize you're no match for people like that," he snarled.

Ena sat back on her haunches in disbelief that transitioned into softness. She reached out a hand and soothed, "Silver, it's been a long day. And I know you're emotional—"

"What the Hell is that supposed to me?" Silver snapped, getting to his feet. "Tell me, Ena, be completely honest with me. If I hadn't shown up to get you, what would have happened to you?" He snarled when she pursed her lips. "Answer me. Because you were pretty freaking quick to tell me yesterday."

The way Ena sighed pissed him off. "This isn't the time—"

"Answer me!"

"I would've been fine!" Ena snapped.

"No, you wouldn't have!" Silver thundered. "You even told me yesterday you were fine dying alone because you know you would have died, Ena, if it wasn't for me saving you—!"

Ena got up to glower up at him and hissed, "I didn't need saving, Silver, I had it under control—"

"How the Hell do you justified being beaten and injected with Anti-Ether as 'under control'?" Silver fought back. "So, what, now I'm supposed to believe that, oh, since Gary got kidnapped by Hunters, it was part of the plan. For three years he was gone, he had everything under control, is that it?" He encroached upon her space with War in his eyes. "I had it under control when they chained me, injected me, and beat me until I couldn't speak? Is that it?"

Horror filled Ena, but the words would not come out.

Silver pressed, "No, please, say it to my face. Say it to my face how if Gary had a strategy like the brilliant Ena Fernandes has, he wouldn't have been captured and tormented for years. Say it to my face I should've been stronger when they broke my ankle and took turns bashing my face in because I know you always have the perfect thing to say."

"I…." Ena rapidly blinked. "I-I…" She tried to say the only words she could think of, "I'm sorry—"

"I don't want you sorries!" Silver hissed. "I don't want your pity or your excuses or your comfort! You would have died, Ena. You could have been taken like Gary. And you still think you have everything under control. That if you just get stronger, facing Hunters will be no problem for you. Gary begged for our dad to kill him, Ena, because of those people!" He heaved his next breaths with his anger and grief scattered, bending, unyielding within him. "And you're sitting here, telling me that nothing about yesterday matters because you had it 'under control'!"

He shook his head, turning away from her as his face flickered from breaking down and pure fury.

Ena's bottom lip trembled as her eyes watered. "S-Silver, I'm… I'm sorry, I…" Her eyes flashed to the ground as she shored up what to say—what to do. "I…" She tried and failed for the words and tried again to wipe his tears. "Silver—"

He shook his head, deflecting her hands. "Don't touch me—"

"Silver—"

"What do you believe now?"

Raw mayan blues collided with clouded dark chocolates.

"Do you still think you can win?" Silver asked her. "Do you still think you'll be fine and can handle things?"

Ena harshly swallowed as moments of quiet burst between them. But it was not a silence of change. It was a silence that was the wrong answer.

Silver woefully shook his head and whispered, "You need to leave."

"I'm not leaving you alone when you're like this," Ena refused. She came closer and tried to cup his jaw. "Silver—" She stopped when he flinched away from her. "Silver, please, let's talk about our conversation another night. I just want to make sure you're okay—"

"I'm not." Silver rubbed his cheeks. "I'm not okay. I'm not okay that you're going to keep being this reckless." His step away from her felt more like an attack than a retreat. "I admire you…so much. You're…everything. And when you told me you needed me too…" He let out a quick breath as he shook his head.

"Because I do," Ena insisted. "I wasn't lying."

"I know you weren't," Silver murmured. "I wanted to hear you say those words so badly, but now I just…" He closed his eyes. A shaky inhale. A shaky exhale. "Please just leave me alone."

Ena tried one last appeal, "Silver—"

"I don't want you here."

Ena froze.

"I don't…want you." Silver turned away from her. "So just leave, okay? Please just go."

A terrible hush.

Ena let her hands fall limp at her sides. "I…understand." Chin tipped down. "Good night, Silver." She sidestepped in and left his bedroom, clicking the door shut behind her, and went straight to her room. After making sure her doors shut, she leaned against them.

And as the first tear shed, she realized she had never felt more alone in her life.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure 106

•

The Man with Scarlet Hair

•

緋色の髪の男

•

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

She waked in the darkness, but her bare feet touched water with each step. Scarlet glowed about her, but she could not distinguish much else. This zone was hers and hers alone.

SPLASH… SPLASH…

"Mistress."

She turned, the water splashing, to see a young man a distance away from her dressed in a contrasting oceanic blue aura to her scarlet glow. She could not see his eyes with his bangs covering them, but she could not ignore him.

"You're all…alone."

SHING!

She could not breathe when Soledia and Lunagr'an surrounded her throat.

DRIP.

Blood dribbled down her glinting blade.

DROP.

"So alone, pretty mistress." Sharpness flirted with her skin as the words echoed. "Do you like being alone?"

That oceanic presence was behind her as he caressed her jaw and forced her chin up. The sharpness experimentally pressed at the juncture of her neck and shoulder and wild static burst over her skin. A mocking purr. "Answer me, mistress."

Her vision blurred as she looked down at her hands to see both her swords. But the darkness glitched for a moment. Her dual blades dripped with mixed blood, but their sheens did not dull. The roar of battle overwhelmed her ears. It felt like someone was clicking a remote when she went from the dark zone to a battlefield then the dark zone again. She looked up to see nothing but war and destruction and blood mauled across this land with armor and tattered clothes. Black and White powers were battered around as screams cried out. Before her, a warrior, open-mouthed, had died in battle, but their back had been viciously mauled. A left-bottom wing remained, tattered and withered.

A tongue flattened against her neck. "You'll always be alone, mistress." Fingers gently rubbed her lips. "And it's your fault."

She looked up into the dark zone to see a door and its frame. The door had cracked open to show a world beyond the dark zone of light and life. A man stood there, shadowed and mysterious, but she saw the gleam of his eyes and the light spread enough for her to recognize a Fairy Tail insignia on his attire. With a hand on the knob, he glanced at her before he opened the door.

Her mouth opened—

"Shhhh… He has to go, mistress. He doesn't want you."

The mysterious man walked straight into the beyond without a glance back.

DRIP…

…DROP…

A tear fell onto Lunagr'an and dripped down her blade.

"You were never wanted." A quiet statement as those fingers danced across her face. "No one will want you, mistress. You're all alone because you've never been enough."

Another door creaked upon in this dark zone, but it was a memory rather than an illusion. It opened to her bedroom in her smaller days as she tucked herself on her bed, eyes hollow. Even with her scarlet hair, the world felt gray and muted and silent.

Kiddish laughter.

A door opened teenaged Mystogan doted around Aine with a genuine smile on his face while he made her laugh. But that smile faded when he looked at the open door and his eyes went hard. "What do you want?" Tone cold, unfamiliar.

Never loving.

He got up to grab the door handle, but he stressed to her, "Aine needs to rest, and Mom has to work. Just stay out of trouble. We don't want you here, and Mom doesn't need to be stressed any more than she is because of you."

And he shut the door closed.

"My poor mistress…" A nose brushed her ear and a warm breath puffed against her flesh. "So alone… So…weak… You have no one. My poor, sweet mistress…" That sharpness pricked her skin. "I'll never want you."

Her nape was grabbed and her body automatically fell lax as her swords burst into masses of black and white energy. But that energy spiraled together to bring a mirror into this world. She watched her scarlet aura flame around her, but her captor's mercy was naught with his glowing aura roaring over hers, set to consume her.

Glowing mayan blues.

"But don't worry, mistress." His lips pulled to show sharp teeth, and he whispered, "I still need you." Sharpness broke flesh and excruciating pain exploded within her, desperate for an outlet—

• — • — •

The way she woke in a panic felt abnormal and terrifying. Heart pounding and the force of her breaths stinging, she shoved off her eye mask to show wide, terrified eyes that were a little red-rimmed. It took her minutes to quell the panic and fear into something more suitable. Her breathing stabilized and her lashes fluttered as she shut her eyes to keep calm.

When Ena opened her eyes, a harsh determination captured her stare.

A shower, brushing, and her skincare routine were first. She checked her eyes and did everything in her power to cover up a single blemish on her face. Her hair was easier to tame as she decided on a twisted bun with her side braid. Considering the overcast in the sky, black felt appropriate, and she would not deny herself. Her gray dress had black sides to her and flirted with her ankles. Not a mourner or a widow, but she looked like someone who had no time for cute smiles and cheap jokes.

By the time she exited her room, knocks tapped on the door. Browns swept to Silver's door until she spared him no second thought to attend to the door.

Nora waited for her, dressed in a gray and navy suit that brought out his eyes. But a concerned frown marred his features upon seeing Ena. "Good morning."

"Good morning, My Lord." Ena's tone left no room for pleasantries.

But Nora could not let go of his concern. "Did you sleep okay?"

"Very well, My Lord. I express gratitude for your concern and care."

Nora nodded. "Silver left you in my care for today."

That broke Ena from her monotonous spell. "What?"

"He expressed he wanted to feel useful in the preparations to ensure his mistress could enjoy the reception ball," Nora said, searching her expression. "And he expressed he felt comfortable leaving your care to me."

Ena rapidly blinked as she processed this.

Nora added gently, "I did ask him to reconsider, but he was determined—"

"It's fine." Ena gathered herself with her chin high. She would not bend. "He came here to work. I have no complaints and I hope he serves you well. Should he do any wrong action, please allow that to reflect on my poor ineptitude, My Lord."

Grayed yellows saddened. "Ena—"

"It's fine, Nora." Ena offered a short nod. "It's okay."

Nora observed her for a fair few moments before he offered his arm. "If you say so. Shall we go then?"

"Of course." She closed her door and took his arm, letting him lead her. "Will the Marquis be at breakfast?"

Nora sighed. "No. Father came in late last night, so he'll be resting a little longer. However, he made it clear after breakfast, he would like to have a private tea with you and a friendly game of chess." He offered a sidelong look. "If that doesn't interest you—"

"I would be honored and accept the invitation," Ena told him. She should have been over the moon, but all she could maintain was polite consistency.

Nora slowly nodded. "He'll be delighted to hear that."

Silence buried the rest of the journey to cross from the annex to the main estate. The estate always looked clean, but everything had a polish and a shine to it with the workers buzzing with anticipation for the final inspection that Marquis and Marchioness would do to make sure their home did not embarrass them. The knights opened the door for Ena and Nora to the dining room where Sylvie, Odette, and Irina were waiting.

Ena drifted from Nora to curtsey before Irina. "My Lady, I apologize for my tardiness. It is unacceptable the Marchioness arrived without her guest already present and accounted for—"

"Oh, Ena, please, there's no need to apologize," Irina hurried to assure. "I'm the one who was early, so no one is at fault here. Please have a seat." She smiled, a tad triumphant watching Nora pull out Ena's chair and offer a hand to her as she lowered herself into it. "We were just reviewing things for the reception ball, and you arrived at the perfect time." She rang the bell beside her.

The waitstaff came out with a light breakfast for all. Sylvie looked like a kid at Christmas when she saw her steak and eggs, and the staff poured fresh drinks for the family and guest.

"As Nora explained, to show a sign of unity and strength, the Marquis, myself, and our children will be receiving guests until a certain hour then being announced into the hall," Irina planned. "However, as you are on Nora's arm for the evening, I was thinking—"

"Mother, I already explained to Ena she's free to enter the reception ball independently and I will ask her hand for the first dance," Nora interrupted, tone robotic.

Irina frowned. "I'm sure Ena would feel more comfortable entering with you," she argued. "Nora, there are certain expectations—"

"Mother, perhaps Lady Ena wishes to enter alone so she may establish more contacts and clients," Odette gently put. "She'd be a fool if she did not make the most of this ball to establish a network. To be honest, for Nora to stand aside for her to continue her work makes him more respectful towards her talent. She'll be able to hold attention easier on her own than on his arm."

Irina was not convinced. "I suppose, but I'm sure Nora's introduction to a few of the parliament members in attendance will help her even more—"

A broad smile. "A young rose doesn't need anyone at her side to talk up her beauty. She does that perfectly alone."

Nora tensed and Odette's smile became a bit tighter, but Sylvie beamed. "Atticus! I thought you'd never come downstairs."

Against Nora's gray and navy blue, Atticus had chosen a brazen red and black. His smile was merry as he came into the dining room. "I couldn't miss breakfast with my family and such a beautiful rose." He bowed to Irina. "Good morning, Mother."

Irina tried not to let her swallow show. "Good morning, Atticus."

"I understand your concerns, given the rumors circulating around my baby brother and this lovely young rose," Atticus said, timbre pleasant. "After all, the reception ball will be filled with all sorts of figures of power and wealth who might attempt dreadful schemes with her. But what's lovely about roses is"—his smile widened—"they have thorns to protect them from such insolent and inexcusable behavior."

"I…" Irina nodded, taken aback. "Yes, I suppose you're right." Her smile to Ena was a try at sincerity. "Your safety is most important, Ena. Atticus is right. All sorts of people will be attending the reception ball for the exams. But considering your background, I was out of line to question your capability to handle them without my son present. For that, I apologize."

Ena waved it off. "No apologies necessary, My Lady, but I thank you for the concern."

Atticus laughed as he strode to his seat beside Sylvie. "Always happy things work themselves out." He simpered seeing his plate and snuck Sylvie a silly grin. "I can see who ordered my breakfast."

"Hey, you love steak, eggs, and hash!" Sylvie said in her defense. She giggled when Atticus pinched her cheek.

"Leave it to my adorable little sister to always know my favorite thing." Atticus let her go to turn his attention on Odette. "Have you finished the book I lent you? I know it was a little thick, but I was hoping you'd finish it by the time I came home, so we could talk about it."

Odette nodded. "I have."

"Excellent." Atticus could not look any brighter. "I'm excited about our conversation." He grabbed his silverware. "And breakfast looks fabulous. I'm famished." He cut into his steak.

It surprised Ena when both sisters and even Nora followed suit. It's like Irina isn't here. All the authority she had in the room… The second Atticus stepped in, he claimed it all. From her peripheral line of sight, she saw Irina hesitantly dig into her own breakfast and that prompted her to cut into her own.

As forks and knives scraped and bellies slowly became full, Atticus brought up to Ena, "My Lady, while I know my brother will be cherishing the first and last dance with you and coveting you, I hope you'll do me the honor of saving me a dance. You looked poetic during the Yule Cotillion. But the Saint Layla's student who served as your model was phenomenal. What was her name again?"

"Layla Heart, My Lord," Ena gave. Why is he asking about L? I shouldn't be too suspicious. A lot of my clients who attended fawned over her but still…

"Miss Layla Heart." Atticus tested the name, then smiled. "She was absolutely charming and the dress you made for her was outstanding." His hand twitched to present a vibrant red rose.

Ena tried and failed hiding her surprise. "You're a Wizard?"

"Oh, no, My Lady, I just a practicing illusionist," Atticus explained. "Your beauty is as fair as rose, but Miss Layla Heart…" With a twirl of the rose, it changed into a moonflower. "Her grace was of that of a moonflower and completely captivating. How she blossomed in the evening. Or perhaps, she resembled something different…"

He tossed the moonflower into another hand, and it changed into a unique pale white flower. He smiled at his handiwork. "Yes. She reminds me the night-blooming cereus. So rare and precious that it only blossoms for the moon. You must keep them hidden and away from the light. For with light…"

The cereus quickly wilted as grayed yellows glinted.

"…it begins to wither and fade to nothing if you aren't careful."

Ena's eyes minutely narrowed.

Atticus' radiant smile was back as he twirled the dying flower back into a brilliant red rose. "Here, My Lady." He offered Ena the rose. "My token to you as a reminder to our anticipated dance."

"Thank you, My Lord." Ena accepted the rose, but the stem felt smooth to her fingers, an oddity. "The thorns…"

"Oh, I plucked the thorns," Atticus informed her. "Like all delicate flowers, the thorns protect them from unwanted predators…"—those grayed yellows slid to Irina—"scavengers wanting what isn't theirs…"

Irina took a sip of her drink.

Atticus flashed his gaze back to Ena. "Those flowers deserve to protect themselves from such vile creatures. But I prefer the flowers I grow to be smooth for me. I'll never hurt them. Oh, no. I adore my precious flowers far too much to let a single petal be plucked." He questioned, "Would you like to know my favorite flower?"

"You seem partial to roses," Ena observed.

Atticus chuckled. "I suppose I do. I do care for roses. It's difficult to grow them since they require much nurture and care for their beauty. But I often found my beloved cereus is my favorite. As I said before, they're rare, and some get the privilege of blossoming twice before such a tragic death." He produced another cereus and watched it wilt in his fingers. "But the most wonderful thing about cereus flowers… Once you manage to find one of them, you can keep it tucked away from the world as your beautiful secret as it blooms just for you."

Ena watched the flower's white beauty turn into a dying and veiny orange.

"And perhaps even"—Atticus' smile widened—"a treasure that the world would kill to see." With slow fingers, he crushed the dying cereus to nothing and showed in his hands not a single speck remained.

Sylvie clapped, sparkling in admiration. "Wow, Atticus! You've gotten better with your close-up hand magic!"

Atticus simpered. "Only so I could entertain you, my darling little sister! Now, shall we get back to eating?" Sylvie and Atticus got back to eating while Odette and Nora were slower, and Irina need liquid courage.

Ena twisted the rose between her fingers. A rose without thorns… A flower coveted in a cage, only to blossom for its keeper… She tightened her grip on the rose as her eyes found Atticus as he happily chatted away. What sort of person are you, Atticus Gosling?

And one of the petals on the rose started wilting.

---

Morning in Magnolia felt like it came from a Magia movie as hellos rang out with friendly smiles for everyone to start their day with. The sun stretched into the sky to beam away any stubborn snow. Boats lazed down the canals while one small boat docked to bring in a shipment. School was in session, but many of the students could not wait for the final bell already. A family-owned bookstore had a father and his struggling daughter looking for a sizable book as her reward for a dentist visit. The station had emptied out earlier this morning, but a few workers and college students waited around for the next train.

Nashi splayed across the bed with the sheets tangled around her. She had shed everything save for her panties with a nice shower, facial cleaning, and teeth-brushing before she had resigned to a welcomed sleep. It was not until the ringer went off. Someone contacted the condo to be let in. A deep sigh escaped her as she slowly woke herself up, but she could hear footsteps make the journey to investigate who wanted in. She took it for granted as she rolled over. Water was prepared for her with a cute straw and her Compact was on the charger.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Gary (and Nashi's) Condo

Magnolia Town

Fiore, Ishgar

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Helping herself, she sipped her water and checked her Compact for the time. It's still morning. A few more sips. I have some time until lecture and then I need to study for the next shoot and interview. And I still have to figure out school and…

KNOCK-KNOCK-KNOCK.

Nashi made sure the sheets covered her and sat up with the pillows as her backing. "Yeah?"

Quiet.

"Can I come in?"

Nashi kept scrolling. "I don't know, Býleistr, are you done being a giant ass?"

A sigh, but Býleistr pushed his way in with a light breakfast and smoothie on a tray. Celestial Spirit or not, it was obvious exhaustion had its claws into him. He set up the tray on the bed so it hovered over Nashi's lap.

Nashi eyed Býleistr as he stayed on his feet with his head down, shuffling, and sighed. "Come on. You have some groveling to do." She ignored when he went into his Cat Form to hop up on the bed and went for her smoothie first.

Býleistr's tail twitched with a nervous flick of his ears. "I'm sorry, princess. That was your training session to get stronger. It wasn't the time for Leo and I to put you in danger to settle our differences."

"Wow, your apology is a shit apology," Nashi muttered.

Býleistr sighed and laid down, front paws stretched out before him. He licked his chest as he gathered his thoughts. "You were right."

Nashi stopped scrolling to eye him. "I'm listening."

"You were right that we should be past this," Býleistr continued, tail curling. "I know it sounds like I'm making excuses, but… It's not as easy as us baring our souls to each other and saying, 'I'm sorry'. Our history runs deep. We might've had our differences when we were younger, but…" Those sunset oranges flickered with sorrow. "In his eyes, I betrayed everything we stand for. And it's hard not to fault him for that when I think the same."

Nashi's somber contemplation batter away her annoyance. She rubbed down Býleistr's head, and a purr throttled in his throat. "I hate to be that person, but…" A moment of hesitation. "What did Uncle Loke mean, you know…when he was saying what we said yesterday? Did you really…?"

Býleistr pulled away, eyes down. "Star Spirits have laws we have to follow as subjects to the Star King and as individuals, depending on how we became Star Spirits and our purpose." He stretched his front paws. "Back then, it was unethical to show anything more than devotion to our masters. We were free to have any relationship, but our masters were off-limits. The Council would preach about causing a power imbalance and skew our devotion and…"—his tail flicked—"maybe they were right."

Nashi stroked his spine and asked quietly, "What was she like?"

"Beautiful." A whispered word full of longing and adoration. "She was…everything. But it didn't start that way." Sunset oranges glowed in wistful mirth. "Leo was sick and tired of me goofing off all day and bitched about it to our predecessor. With approval, I was to be the Star Spirit to the second-in-line for the 'Priestess' title of the Heartfilia Clan." He chuckled. "I was pissed. No offense, but I wanted nothing to do with your clan. I was…enjoying sowing my wild oats."

Nashi grimaced. "Okay, ew. Let's not get nasty."

Býleistr laughed until he sighed. "I could feel my key be transferred. I was summoned, and I saw her. It was hate at first sight," he confided. "I could feel how much she loathed me when we recited the Vow and I could tell she wouldn't summon me if her life depended on it. I didn't mind, since I got my freedom that way, but Leo and the Clan Priestess told me I was to be her protector and encourage her to use her potential. It's not like I couldn't summon myself. And if I kept pushing off seeing her, Leo would have my ass. So I bucked up and did. And guess what I saw?"

"What?"

"The ward I was supposed to protect was in the middle of her own fun with a mortal," Býleistr said, tone wry. He chortled when Nashi's expression pinched into disgust. "Yeah. I was shocked too and so were they. She wasn't strong enough to force me through the gate, and she was scratching and cursing me out when I dragged her back home. Her family wasn't happy with her either. It's not like she didn't have freedom. But times were uncertain, so it wasn't smart for her to sneak off to get her jollies off."

Býleistr went on: "I practically became a glorified babysitter. It might've pissed me off how she'd try to bribe me or sneak out, but…it became sort of funny. She'd turned bright red when I let her think she slipped under my nose and caught her right before she could leave the territory. And she had one of the worse mouths I've encountered when I had to chase off her little lovers from trying to get in."

Nashi simpered. "She sounds like a handful."

"She was. No wonder where you got it from. It's in your blood." Býleistr snickered when Nashi flicked his ear. "It took a while for us to come to some sort of truce. She started being a little nicer when she got sentenced to her room for doing this, that, and the other thing, and I'd sneak her in some stuff. Nothing much. Food or things I bagged from other realms. It shocked me she was actually interested, considering she wanted nothing to do with her clan. But she wanted to go to a place further than her own realm."

Sunset oranges dimmed. "And who was I to say, 'no'? I was dying to get back to Jumping. So, late at night, we'd visit another realm and I'd show her the ropes before we'd slip back into her room just before sunrise. She was…so amazed seeing so much. She wasn't the whiney brat from before. She was passionate and sweet. She might've been disinterested in the clan, but when she saw other realms suffering, she started realizing all that training she never wanted to do? She needed to do it to get stronger and protect people. I couldn't help but admire her strength to fight for realms she had no attachment to."

Nashi recognized that warmth in his tone. "That's when you fell in love with her."

Býleistr dipped his head. "Yes."

"And…did she fall in love with you?"

That question made Býleistr tense before he forced himself to relax. "Back then, I was hopeful. Now? No. I know she didn't. We had feelings for each other and we kept our affairs a secret, but… No, she didn't love me. Not like I loved her."

Something else pressed upon Nashi's mind and churned her stomach. "When you were…with her…what form were you in?"

"My Man Form."

Her eyebrows shot up. "You can look like a human?"

"Yes." Býleistr shifted, uncomfortable. "It's just like Leo can shift like me. I just…prefer not to. Not with the memories that form has for me."

Nashi soberly nodded. "I understand," she assured. "What happened next?"

Býleistr heaved a sigh. "Not much. We kept carrying on under the radar and acting normal during the day. I could tell Leo was suspicious. We both had to be squeaky clean before we could see him or any of the other beasts of the clan. If he smelled us, I would've been forcibly unbound to her and would've answered to the Council for breaking the law and even she would've been threatened with being stripped of her Starcraft. We did whatever we could to keep it a secret. We were naïve to think it would stay a secret."

Nashi could see where the story was headed, but she still asked, "And then?"

"We traveled to a realm within the cosmos, but it was on the borders. The realm was beautiful and undisturbed. From the scent, hybrids of Fae folk lived there." He smiled with his eyes. "She loved it there. We both did. We ended up staying there for a little while. She learned the people's tricks and…we were happy. I thought we were, but…" He shook his head.

Nashi carefully mentioned, "Uncle Loke said…you loved her when she was promised to someone else…"

"He's not lying." A bitterness soured his words. "I was too naïve to think it."

Nashi still failed to understand, however. "Does this mean she was engaged to someone, or she had a soulmate?"

"Soulmates aren't a tried and true thing," Býleistr explained. "It's more like…an awareness. You're aware of someone. You know something about them. But a soul can be compatible with many other souls. So, no, she didn't have a soulmate or a fiancé. But…" Those oranges turned dreary. "She did meet someone she was aware of. That's who Leo meant."

"How'd they meet?"

"We'd gone exploring and stopped for rest," Býleistr told. "I told her I could stand guard while she cleaned in a stream nearby. But when she called me over, I saw him in the water. I thought he was a threat, but she didn't. And when they stared at each other, I could feel her notice he was alive." He shook his head with a bitter chuckle. "And history loves to repeat itself."

Nashi's brow furrowed. "What do you mean?"

"When you summoned me and I saw your Wolverine… It felt like history was repeating itself."

That was when Nashi put two and two together in a controlled gasp. "So he was…?"

"He was a Flame Devil, yes," Býleistr recounted. "A natural-born Devil. He didn't speak our language, but I'd understand later he had come to this realm to get away from being used as a weapon in a war he wanted no part in. The people treated him well and had gradually accepted him. Having a Devil on your planet back then was a bad omen."

Nashi's stomach dropped. "Why?"

"Devils are made of Black and Curses," Býleistr told her. "They could bring down almost anyone who crossed their path, but people realized if you controlled a Devil, you could control a war. People would slaughter Devils and force their power onto someone else to make it more controllable. Someone who acquires Devil powers isn't as strong as a born-Devil. But born-Devils were coveted like trophies if you conquered one. And when you saw one in a realm, you could be sure its master and that master's army was sure to follow to complete enslavement and destruction."

Nashi swallowed thickly and kept her hands from shaking. I knew Devils were powerful, but… This is even worse. No wonder Bael was desperate to keep him and collar him like a dog. And if this extended in a whole universe…

Dread flopped within her. Oh god. Gary. Oh, no.

"Princess." Býleistr grew into his Natural Form to rub her hands. "If I can feel you getting anxious, he'll feel it."

"You're telling me Gary could be wanted across the galaxy," Nashi snapped as panic seized her.

"And he's aware of it."

Nashi froze. "What?"

"Did you really think your Wolverine was blind?" Býleistr asked of her. "He was kidnapped for three years. Demons have gunned for him. An entire country gunned for him. Hunters are waiting for him to drop his guard to come in for the kill shot. He knows, Nashi."

"But I just…!" Nashi steadied herself with a lengthy exhale. "What was the Flame Devil like?"

Býleistr took her topic change in stride. She needed a distraction, and he was willing to provide it as he grinned. "In my opinion, he was a right bastard and I wanted to murder him several times—which, again, history seems to repeat itself."

Nashi laughed as her panic settled down. "Yeah, but you like Gary." A beat. "Is he similar to the Flame Devil?"

"Not really," Býleistr said. "But it's most likely because of how they were raised."

Nashi's amusement faded for confusion. "What do you mean?"

"Devils might naturally live isolated lives, but they do raise their young," Býleistr explained. "Gary is a Devil raised with the heart of a human. This Flame Devil might've learned how to socialize, but it was…feral. He was very well-controlled in his madness, like Gary, but he had a wild edge to him your Wolverine doesn't have all the time. As Skade, he does, but as Gary, he still retains civility."

"Huh…" Nashi considered this. That would make sense… But then again, that conversation last night… His soul might be…

"He wasn't skittish around us," Býleistr continued, pulling Nashi from her thoughts. "But I could tell he was wary. But she broke down his barriers just like she had broken down mine." Those oranges saddened as a pathetic smile marred his face. "I could see it so clearly between them. I knew she loved him. She felt guilty, but I brushed it off and told her it wasn't a problem." He snorted. "As long as she was happy…I could handle with being her fraud."

Secondhand heartbreak shot through Nashi. Býleistr…

"To his credit, he was relatively gentle. We came to a truce. I…" Býleistr pulled his hands away to ball them into fists. "I knew I would never win. And it'd upset her. But it comforted me a little they took good care of each other. I could…feel when they forged a Bond." A hitch went into his tone.

Nashi let the tray float over the nightstand to shift through the sheets and hug Býleistr. "I'm so sorry," she whispered.

Býleistr offered a pathetic chuckle. "I'm over it, princess. It's whatever. It was…" He swallowed. "It was bound to happen."

"Maybe." Nashi hugged him tighter. "But it doesn't mean you can't be heartbroken. I can't imagine what would happen if I could feel Gary with someone else." Just the sickening thought pressed something sharp into her heart and throat.

Býleistr sighed and released Nashi. "Once they bonded…" He shook his head. "She was happy. I wasn't…thinking straight. Neither one of us was. She had a fantasy in her head and we argued, but I… I quit."

Nashi saw the haunted look in his eyes and feared the worst. "You can stop there," she quickly told him. "I understand now—"

"No, you don't," whispered Býleistr. "Because if you knew what happened…you'd want me back into the Void." He gritted his teeth. "She had died because of me and my carelessness. But it wasn't just her." A dead look entered his stare. "Because of me, I massacred an entire planet."

"I don't believe that," Nashi inserted.

But Býleistr shook his head. "Whether you do or don't, it's true," he murmured. "My sentence was the Void for my crimes. I betrayed my master, my kingdom, the clan, my brother—I was a quitter." He ran his hands through his mane with a shaky intake of air. "And when you summoned me…" His voice trembled. "And I saw…another Devil…"

He gave a humorless laugh. "I thought to myself, Leo really fucking hates me. He's thrown my failure back in my face. And he wants to remind me every day of all the guilt I still have with you and your Wolverine. My next master with another bad omen."

Hurt. That was what Nashi felt. But she kept quiet. Now was not the time for her to air out her hurt.

"I know it's different," Býleistr told her as though he knew she felt hurt by his words. "I know. For starters, I love you how a Spirit normally loves their master—their family. You have compassion, but you have common sense. You dream big, but you know boundaries. Both of you do." Another shaky breath. "I knew the Flame Devil would be an omen if something happened. I knew. He might've escaped to stop wreaking havoc and find peace, but I knew something would happen. But she dreamt big. She wanted a life with him—a family."

Nashi touched her stomach where her scar was.

"You both might be at risk, but you know the risks and you accept them and confront them," Býleistr told her with clear pride in his eyes when he looked at her. "Gary knows his quest for peace could be impossible. He's a hunted man." He settled on the bed in a crisscross with his arms crossed. "You know we talked that day when you were running yourself ragged trying to find him."

Nashi's face screwed up, and she swatted at him. "Yeah. Thanks a lot for making me cry, dick."

Býleistr guffawed. "In the end, by all the screaming I had to endure, I'm sure your little sappy five-minute tears were worth it." He smirked when Nashi blushed. "But we did—talk, I mean."

Sunset oranges flashed with respect. "Gary Fullbuster is a complicated person, and I don't like to describe people like that easily," he told her. "His entire life is complicated. If he took one step off this realm, he would be mercilessly hunted down to be muzzled and chained before he had enough sense to retaliate. The trial worked in his favor. With the world knowing about a Devil, if the people who kidnapped him want him back, they'd have the Council instantly hounding them.

"He has an awareness of his position that would take lesser people decades to hammer in their head." He shook his head. "I don't envy him. His journey in life won't be pretty. His ledger will be dripping with blood upon his Judgment. But for as carefree as people think he is, he's one of the smartest mortals I know." He jested, "I'll approve of my master having a Devil this time."

Nashi dramatically let out a sigh of relief. "Oh, thank god. Here I was fearing you'd stop the wedding."

"I mean it, though." Býleistr shifted. "And I'm sure your parents are thinking the same." When Nashi did not understand, he elaborated, "Your parents know that you're in danger. You have Demon Blood in you, but more than that, you have two Agent Souls tamed and bonded to you. You've been a target since birth. And Gary being a Devil makes him a target. I'm sure that was in the backs of their minds when it came to you two being a couple."

He added when Nashi was unconvinced, "You told me your dad fought Gary, right?"

"Yeah." Annoyance filtered through her, and she rolled her eyes. "But it was just a huge ego-stroker thing. I mean, sure, it might've been a recommendation for S-Class, but—"

"But don't you think it would make sense your dad wants to make sure Gary has the strength to fight and not quit if he's going to be with you?"

Nashi snorted, waving a hand, and said… Well, she said nothing. It hit her a little later. "He… He was being serious." She looked up at Býleistr. "He was being serious."

"You're both targets, but you've put yourself in the public eye, which serves as a deterrent from whoever wants you from grabbing you," Býleistr gently told her. "Individual strength is perfect when it's just you. But when there's an 'us', you have to be prepared to defend yourself and someone else." Grief wrecked his face. "It was my fault for not having my previous master see that. And I was so angry that I was sent to another situation like it. But I wasn't."

"How do you know that?" Nashi whispered. "What if…? What if we are the same as them?"

"I know you're not."

"How?"

"Because you know that there are people out there who can take you down," Býleistr told her. "You know about Magic Hunters that can kill you with Anti-Ether. You know about the Warlocks and other Demons and Sinful. You don't delude yourself into thinking you'll have a perfect life. You know that shit will hit the fan, and you keep learning how to overcome your limitations—both of you."

Nashi was not sure. "I've made so many mistakes—"

"And you'll keep making mistakes," Býleistr soothed. "But so long as you keep learning and relying on the people standing next to you, you'll see you'll make less mistakes."

A steady exhale streamed from Nashi's nose. "I believe you and forgive you," were the first words she said. "You don't owe me a thing, Býleistr. I understand." Ire filled her. "But Uncle Loki—"

"Before you get fired up about Leo… You should hear his side."

"What?"

"Because he has valid reasons to hate me for what I did, princess," he told her with a sad smile. When she purses her lips, he added, "Just think about it. But I think we've had enough of the heavy stuff for this morning." He got off the bed. "Eat. I'll bring in your package."

He abandoned the master bedroom to go a little down the hall, but he stopped and calmed himself. It's different. They're different, but…

Flames roaring for blood. Wild screams. Her vicious plead for her unborn.

He shook out of the memory. They're had to have been a reason Gary was born a Devil. There had to have been. He went to the kitchen to get the package. But my instincts tell me that the reason isn't anything good. He swiped the package, but a letter had slipped from the bottom of it. Huh? What's this? He picked up the letter to see it had addressed Nashi. No return address. He looked onto the back, but his eyes narrowed on the wax seal. The Hell sort of letter needs a wax seal?

And the red wax imprinted none other than a chess piece.

---

Gale climbed down the steps with military rucksacks in each hand with noise coming from the living room. Equipment was scuttled away into cases and bags from different sorts of binoculars to technology that Genius had lent for them with trackers and recorders and bugs and cameras to plants.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Redfox Residence

Magnolia Town

Fiore, Ishgar

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Gale grunted as he sent down the rucksacks. "Is this all really necessary for the stakeout job? And why the Hell do I have to go?"

"Because I said so." Gajeel locked up a case. "This'll be good for you both." He caught the sheathed knife Panther Lily tossed to him. "And it's not like it's a hard job. It's recon and possibly bashing some heads in." He smirked. "I hope it's that."

"It won't be that," Panther Lily told him with a withering stare.

Galileo sighed. "How'd we get this job again?" He sipped up a duffel. "I didn't think an assignment like this would go to a guild."

"'Cause it doesn't." Gajeel tossed keys to Panther Lily. "Vanderbilt caught word about this from our mysterious friend. The Mikage Forest ain't something that humans can live in, but after the fall of Avatar, the Council sent patrols there just to make sure shit's not actin' up." Rubies darkened. "But now shit's startin' to act up."

"Someone has tampered a few patrol times," Panther Lily rumbled as he loaded up his back and arms with bags. "From the inside, it's clear there are some MCPs who might be helping whoever is sneaking into the forest. The question remains: what are they trying to find?" He crossed the threshold to go to the garage.

Galileo wondered, "You think the Faction is trying to set up camp there?"

"Maybe." Gajeel shrugged on some packs. "But Coeus had a theory this could be about Deathhawk instead of the Faction. It's unlikely the Faction will set up too many roots here. The Council branch here might not be the best, but it's because it's so much better than most places that Wizards flock here and because we have a competent Wizard as our queen. But if it's Deathhawk…" He shifted.

The brothers exchanged a wary look before Gale asked, "Dad… What are you not saying?"

Before Gajeel could answer, someone else had dropped in. "Knock, knock."

Attention turned to Thirteen as he stood at the doorway with his signature hat, a button-down with the sleeves rolled up, and suspenders. Those mysterious eyes of his swept to Gajeel, and he nodded. "Hope I'm not interrupting anything."

"You're not." Gajeel's jaw set. "Galileo, Gale—help Lily out and load the truck." He set down his belongings to get to Thirteen. "We need to talk." He jerked his chin, and Thirteen followed him down the hall.

Gale tched as he gathered up a few bags. "Oh, sure, Old Man, we'll do all the grunt work. Easy, peasy, lemon squeezy." He hauled as much as he could before he turned to see a somber look on Galileo's face. "You sure you want to come?" he hedged. "You know Dad and Uncle Lily wouldn't care."

"No, it's fine." Galileo hauled on his packs. A dim smile ghosted his lips. "Honestly, it'll do me good. Get my mind off things, y'know?" He shifted his load. "Better get these on the truck."

Gale stared after him. Hmm…

°•°•°•°

Panther Lily finished making sure a few straps were in place on the bed of the truck. With Levy's car gone for the day, the family had two trucks, a four-door Lacrima Truck and the older two-door truck. The four-door would have to do for the trip.

He looked up as the brothers came outside and gestured to the bed. "Put them here."

Galileo went first to unload his bags, but Gale kept looking at the house. "Why did Thirteen come over?" he asked. "I never took him as one to make house visits."

"I rarely see him at the guildhall," Galileo commented as he finished up. He moved aside for Gale to start unloading. "He's definitely an enigma. Orochi says he'll come in for a drink or to speak with Master, but that's it. Though, Vinyl makes it work."

Panther Lily chuckled. "She's very persistent in chasing him." Once Gale was finished, he took over strapping down all the equipment and getting the tarp. "It might not look it, but Thirteen and Coeus do a lot of covert missions. From how I remember, your father approached Master about Thirteen. She handled the rest."

"Huh…" Gale scratched his head, perplexed. Why would the Old Man go out of his way for Thirteen? I don't even think I've seen them speak. He stretched out with a yawn. "Do we really have to go? I was really looking forward to seeing Blondie and making her blush—" He hissed when he felt Panther Lily smack the back of his head. "Ow! Hey…!"

Panther Lily snorted. "You are just like your father." His tail twitched. "The number of times he'd complain about work and tried to get out of paperwork to sneak off with your mother…"

Galileo and Gale made noises of disgust, and Galileo grumbled, "We won't need to hear about it."

Panther Lily offered a grin in return. "I'll do a sweep to make sure we have everything." He sent Gale a meaningful look as he said, "Get your mind on the mission. Get focused."

Gale raised an eyebrow. "Am I allowed to keep my Com this time?" he drawled, tone sardonic.

"Yes." Panther Lily glanced at the house before he told Gale, "You're a lot wiser to know how to focus." Flashing his teeth in an amused grin, he went back to the house.

Gale growled. I hate it when they give me backhanded praise. He took out his Compact, however. But if I get to have it… Maybe he should have hesitated, but he charged through finding her contact and calling her. He leaned against the truck when the call picked up.

"Mmm… 'Lo?"

Gale smiled. "Damn, Blondie-girl, you're still snoozing on a day like today?"

"Mmm…" Luna yawned. "Yeah. Mama got me up for our run and workout this morning, but since Papa and Luke decided they'll come home tomorrow, Mama and I did some intense yoga and she said I could nap until she needed me. Nashi's coming over later for a girl's night." She yawned.

Gale's smile slipped into a worried frown. "You sure you should be this tired?"

"M'fine," Luna mumbled. "I stayed up late once you brought me home. Had to take care of something. Hold on."

Gale blinked when the call rang to turn into a FaceCall, and he accepted it. Luna was tucked under the covers with her eyes half-lidded, but he still found her adorable. "Hey."

"Hi." Luna nestled into her pillow.

"You're making me jealous of a pillow, Blondie," Gale muttered. "What does a guy have to do to be your pillow?"

Luna hummed her laugh and showed a lazy smile. "Friends, Gale. Friends." Amusement glittered in her stare as Gale theatrically groaned. "Did you call me just to interrupt my beauty sleep?"

"Nah." Gale rubbed his neck. "My old man and Uncle Lily are roping Leo and me out for a recon assignment. Thought you could spare me your confession of your undying love and promise of celibacy in the event of my death. You in?"

Luna laughed. "No thanks. Cane's up if you get knocked out, superstar. Sorry."

"Damn. Cold-blooded." Gale grinned. "Should be back beginning of next week. Stakeouts are shitty to begin with, but work is work. If I'd known I'd be busting my ass, I would've tried squeezing in some more time with you."

"You did. Thank goodness Icarus recognized you were driving to your house instead of mine, and I didn't fall asleep in the car," Luna said dryly.

"Would've gotten away with it if it wasn't for your meddling dog," Gale grumbled.

Luna shifted on her bed. "You'll be careful?"

"Get outta here, Blondie, who the Hell do you think I am? 'Course I will be.

"Good." Luna groaned as she stretched. "Come back home safe, okay?"

"Yeah." Rubies softened. "I will, principessa. Go back to sleep. I'll see you when I get home."

"M'kay." Luna yawned and offered a flimsy wiggle of her fingers. "Bye-bye."

"Bye." The call ended, and Gale kept that soft smile on his face.

"Can you afford to leave now without resolving anything?" Nice's words came back to him, and he felt he was back in her office. "Or can you spare patience for a bit of time to finish what you started so you can move on?"

His nostrils flared as he exhaled. Rubies pinned onto his background screen of a smiling Luna. I can spare some time to get my shit together. I don't want to leave with any regrets. Igneel and Janie might be a different story, but this is the least I can do. He winced when Galileo ruffled his hair. "Dammit, Leo."

Galileo chuckled. "You look pretty happy over there. Should I be worried you're off the market?"

"Ha!" Gale shoved him. "More like 'not for sale – defective'." He made sure he had no other important notifications before he jammed his Compact in his pocket. He looked up to see Galileo's pale reds pin on him. An uncomfortable itch hit him. "Don't look at me like that."

"Like what?"

"I don't know." Gale turned away. "Like you're pitying me."

Galileo shook his head, snickering. "Yeah, right. Like I would pity your ass. I don't need you to start frothing out the mouth for a fight to prove how much pity you don't need." He grinned when red tainted Gale's cheeks before he sighed and leaned against the truck. "Nah, not looking at you in pity." He looked up to catch a Sky Boat high in the clouds. "But I'm also not looking at you like you're defective. You know that, right?"

Gale snorted as he looked up at the sky too. "Yeah, right. I know I'm the fuck-up of the family."

"You're not." Galileo touched his metal arm. "At least you still have your body, right?"

Shame and sadness gutted Gale as he looked down at Galileo's metal arm.

A ghost of a smile touched Galileo's lips. "Don't look at me like you pity me, douchebag," he jested. He stretched his rhodonite arm. "Not like this was anyone else's fault but my own. So, I don't need pity." A flicker went through pale reds. "Gods know Livy still looks at me like that when she sees my arm, even if she downplays it."

"She's coming home for Parent's Day," Gale said.

"Yeah. You know Mom's going to try and bribe her to come home." Galileo's smile turned real. "But I think her being out there is good for her. Wu Xing is beautiful. I felt at home being around all that metal. But I think she felt more connected there than me."

Gale hummed and looked over at his brother. "But is your home here?"

What a question. Galileo's smile touched with emotion. "Not like I have much here to keep me here. Angel-fish is blossoming like I knew she would. I'm honestly happy she and Gary are doing well. And you too."

"Me?"

"Yeah. You were pretty moody before Livy and I left for our job, remember?" Galileo snickered. "You were such a pain in my ass."

Gale growled. "Yeah, well… You'd be moody too when you were used as target practice so y'all could level up—" He stopped when a metal hand rested on his head.

"But you've changed so much," Galileo murmured. "You're changing. I'm happy to see the same moody, hot-headed little brother wizened up." He raised his other hand to show a centimeter before his thumb and pointer. "About this much. Still pretty moody and hot-headed."

Gale batted Galileo's hand away with a scowl, but you could tell he was embarrassed. "Whatever. Dick." He did look up at Galileo again, expression softening. "You changed too, y'know.'

"Really?" Galileo smirked. "It's pretty weird when your little brother is trying to tell you that you got hotter while he was gone."

Gale rolled his eyes and shook his head while Galileo snickered. "I mean it, asshole." He sighed and turned away, a bit blushy. "I'm just worried about you, all right? Happy now?"

Three beats.

Galileo slyly said, "Wow. Luna's cuteness is really rubbing off on you, Gale, if you're being this nice to me. You're blushing and everything, aw…!"

Gale growled. "Whatever, dipshit. Forget I said anything." He stalked away, ears burning as he listened to Galileo's laughter. He wrenched open the backdoor—

"I'm figuring this out."

Gale slowed and looked over at Galileo, who looked back at the sky.

"I've got some things on my mind," Galileo murmured. "I'm still…figuring some shit out. But don't worry about me." He aimed a fangy smile. "I'll be okay."

Gale softened. "If you say so. I could, um…" He coughed into a fist. "Well, uh… I'm…here if, y'know…if you want to…"

"Keep acting this shy and cutesy, Gale, and I'll start thinking you have an incest problem."

Gale snarled, face red and ears steaming. "Fuck you, douche-bag!" He went into the truck and slammed the door closed so hard that the truck shook.

Galileo chuckled to himself. He never changes. The wind breezed through his hair smelling of spring and change. Maybe…it is time for me to find a new home. Livy told me to get off my ass. And Angel-fish is in good hands. I won't need to worry about her. A self-deprecating smile. She's overcome so much. I'm proud of her for coming this far. Pale reds dimmed. But still…

His ears twitched, and he looked to see his father, Lily, and Thirteen exiting the house. Pale reds watched the look Gajeel and Thirteen exchanged before all three flooded down the porch and the drive.

Thirteen's gaze slid to Galileo, and he nodded. "You be safe out there, kid." He gripped Galileo's shoulder and released him as he kept his stride to his car.

Galileo felt his father stand beside him as Panther Lily got into the driver's seat of the truck. "Something you want to let us in on, Dad?" he asked, tone pitched low. Both watched Thirteen drive off. "Not like you and Thirteen to talk. At least…"—pale reds flashed—"not outside a bar, anyway."

Gajeel locked his jaw. "We have a long drive to the forest. Make sure that arm of yours is ready for anything." He turned away—

"Dad."

Gajeel stopped. He did not look at his son as he rumbled, "Don't ask questions you don't want to know the answers to."

"Or I shouldn't ask questions that could make me look at you differently."

Gajeel tensed, then his shoulders slackened. He looked over as hard rubies clashed with hard pale hazel reds.

Galileo lowly pressed, "You always warned us away from certain areas, Dad. You told us you survived when you were younger—and that's why you wanted us to live."

"That life was a long time ago, before I joined Fairy Tail and before I met your mom." Gajeel's hands clenched into fists. "And it'll stay out of my life now." He jerked his chin. "Get in the truck."

Galileo stared down his father, but it was instinct to draw his eyes away. Gajeel watched him load up in the back before he slipped on one of Wendy's Troia-infused patches onto the back of his air. Sky Dragon Magic tangled with his power, but it settled enough for him to get into the truck. He shook his head when Lily glanced over, and those rubies flicked into the mirror to see both of his sons.

Rubies hardened. I can't let this shit get to my doorstep. Not when I have family to protect. He looked out the window, and his stare went cold. And I'll defend them with everything I have against you…Vicious.

---

The hall was primped and ready as the event planner's assistant took the helm to make sure all ceremonial decorations were perfect and directed the flow of traffic with private vendors used to catering for royalty and the additional private security hired for the event. Rooms would be looked at with a House Magician coming in to handle all protective enchantments for an extra precaution.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Savant Hall

Larkspur County

Fiore, Ishgar

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

On Nora's arm, Ena went down the hall. She did not care to admit a small bundle of nerves pitted her stomach and kept herself calm. Still, she could not help but ask, "What's your opinion of the Marquis?"

Nora shot her a surprised smile. "Not going to ask what he's like?"

"I'm aware the Marquis is respected for his service and his grace," Ena said. "But I want your opinion on him."

Nora looked straight ahead, thinking. "Father is…kind," he described. Those grayed yellows softened with adoration. "He's noble and fair. He's very caring. He might be firm, but he's not too strict. Sylvie can burst into his office, and he'll stop working to listen to her every word. He'd even take time out of his day to go walking with me. We wouldn't necessarily talk, not about much. But he'd still want to walk with me after dinner."

Ena smiled at that. "He sounds wonderful."

"He is," murmured Nora. "Ever since I met him, I looked up to him. He's everything I want to become. He's always made sure any of us can pursue what we want. For Atticus, he likes botany and gardening. He's a horticulturist. Odette is into literature and business." His eyes danced. "Sylvie is more of a wild card. She goes through phases, and she's been obsessed with make-up making and branding. Father sits through her all her explanations, though, and still asks questions—even if he confessed to me he doesn't know the first thing about make-up."

Ena chuckled behind a hand. "How brave of him to sit through it all." She sighed softly. He sounds like a wonderful father to his family… A pang hit her. I…envy them.

Nora stopped her at a dual set of beautiful dark wood doors with the carving of the Fiore royal emblem and the larkspur flower. Guards were posted, but they kept their eyes on the straight and narrow.

Nora looked down at Ena and told her, "I'll return shortly after I attend to a few things." He removed himself from her. "I hope you win."

Ena snuck in a wry smile. "Betting against your own father? The betrayal."

"I'm sure he'll forgive me for being a traitor since it's you," Nora chuckled. He nodded at the doors. "Go on." He about-faced and strode away with his hands behind his back.

Ena turned to the door. The guards did not stop her as she came up to the door. She knocked thrice and cordially announced, "My Lord, it is Ena Fernandes. You requested my presence for your mid-morning tea?"

"Come in, young lady."

The guard closed in to open the door on Ena's behalf with a bow, and she nodded her appreciation. Shoulders back, chin high, she entered what looked to be a regal study with an ocean blue rug and porcelain white walls with all sorts of careful carvings. It was obvious the office served prestigious meetings with a lengthy table and seats around it, a larger seat for the Marquis. Books and maps chartered the study with a massive executive desk that Traditionalists had created long ago. The curtains were a deep wine color for added contrasts, and the natural light gave the study such a distinct refinement.

Ena came over to the sitting portion of the room with a fireplace and comfortable blue velvet grandfather chairs. Fingers dug into her skirt, and she curtsied. "Good morning, My Lord. I express reverence and great honor to you for your invitation to your home. My gratitude shows no bounds."

A gloved hand wrapped around a reliable cane with a Dragon's head crafted on the top. "The honor and pleasure are mine, my dear. But there's no need to call me 'my lord'. 'Mister Gosling' is fine."

"As you wish, Mister Gosling." Ena straightened up. "Then if I could make a request, please call me 'Ena'."

"Ena. I see." The man who stood before one of the grandfather chairs had that sort of handsome you could not ignore, even with his cane. He shared the same delicate peach skin as Odette, Sylvie, and Atticus with a steep brunette in his mane of hair and his beard. Pale yellows in his stare and his pearly smile showed friendliness. He bowed to her. "While I'm a bit late, I welcome you to my home."

⌜LARKSPUR COUNTY

Name: Dardanius "Denver" Gosling, OFE

Age: 55

Ability: Master Swordsmanship

Occupation: The Marquis of Larkspur

Likes: board games Dislikes: windy days

Special Note: Denver might be a Marquis, but he is also an honorary knight of Her Majesty! ⌟

Denver gestured to the other grandfather's chair. "Please. Sit." As Ena did so, Denver got to his seat and took the reins in getting the tea ready for the pair of them. "Would you prefer honey, milk, sugar…?"

"Oh, I can—"

"You're my guest, Ena," Denver chided. "I prefer to serve my guests." Pale yellows softened as he poured the tea with a bit of a shake in his gloved hands. "It's a habit my own father hated. He believed it beneath me to stoop to being a servant. But my late wife and I are fond of it." He guessed milk with a gesture and smiled when Ena nodded.

Ena looked at the small table between them to see a hexagonal chess set barren of pieces, but the black marble case on Denver's side and the white marble case on her own indicated the game was ready at any point in time. Her stare, however, was drawn to the board. A gray marble-like material had been used to chisel the board. It's strange. This board feels like…

"Your tea."

Ena quickly accepted the cup and saucer with a dip of her head. "Thank you, My L—Mister Gosling." She sipped her tea, but her eyes fell back to the board.

Denver noticed it, and his smile widened. "I see you noticed our board. Truthfully, it was a gift from a man I met long ago. The board and the pieces, I should say. He taught me how to place chess on such a unique board, and I've enjoyed the game ever since. As has Nora. Atticus and my daughters aren't too fond of it."

"It's a lovely board." Ena put her tea down. "I'm honored to be your opponent today."

"As am I." Denver gestured to the marble cases. "Shall we set? You're white as you are my guest."

"Of course."

The pair took out their pieces. Ena could not help but smoothen her hands over the marble pieces as she placed them on their zones. Within a minute, the board set.

Denver offered his hand. "May the best strategist win."

Ena shook it. "Agreed."

They dropped hands, and Ena researched for her first mark on the board. Her rook moved forward a space.

As Denver went through his options for a first move, he told her, "I must apologize to you, Ena. I've heard of your atrocious and unacceptable behavior on my property. Rest assured, I've hired the best to find your attackers and we'll have maximum security for the reception ball." He made his move, but he looked up at her in concern. "They assured me both you and Nora have recovered in full, but forgive this old man's worry."

Ena gave him a simple smile. "Thank you for your concern, Mister Gosling, and yes, we've recovered." She went for her next move.

"A relief to hear," Denver sighed. A grin came next. "But I'm torn between how to feel considering Nora yielded to you in your duel."

Ena laughed as he went for his move. "Side with your son, Mister Gosling. I hope to have another duel with him under better circumstances to see his true skill with a weapon he can bond with."

Pale yellows glowed as Denver's grin broadened. "Aye. I would like to see that as well."

Their back and forth in chess was a well-thought-out dance, a battle of wits. It was not as easy as moving your pieces and hoping for the best. You moved with method—a rhythm—and plotted our strategy five moves in the future and each with a contingency plan hinging on your opponent's next move in this dance of yours. Patience was your ally. You kept yourself cool and collected under your contemplation. Without the need to press a timer, both took the luxury of time to plot their attack with a comfortable silence in doing so.

Denver brought up when it was Ena's turn, "I must comment—and I'm sure you've heard this once or twice—but I have insurmountable respect for your mother, Dame Erza. My late-wife idolized her." He chuckled. "She couldn't stop talking about Dame Erza's perfection with her swords. We went to the Grand Magic Games." His smile turned rueful. "Though, my late-wife complained we couldn't sit where the action was. Still, we both always enjoyed seeing Dame Erza compete and your guild."

Ena could not keep back her pleased and proud smile. "Thank you." She searched the board for a strategy that would satisfy her. "I can't help but feel happy when people support Fairy Tail. We may be reckless, but we fight and fight hard. I call myself lucky to have such a guild." She picked up a piece.

"I would assume so. Everyone in Fiore is proud of the legendary Fairy Tail Guild led by Titania herself." Pale yellows glimmered. "But your father is also a man I respected and admired."

Ena paused in moving her piece to look up at Denver, stunned. But she blinked it away and looked back at the board. "My father?" She made her move.

"Yes. Jellal." Denver was in no hurry to make his move. He tended to his tea instead. It was clear in his eyes that he had a spot for Jellal Fernandes. "My late wife and I had the pleasure of meeting your parents at political functions. It was clear he came from experience and a past. But he spoke with passion and a vision that I could not help but invite him with me when I would meet for Round Tables with the other Marquis and a few Dukes in discussion of the next parliament session and other matters of the state."

Denver set down his tea to make his move on the board. "A brilliant man, your father. His eyes were tantamount to revolutionary. It was a shame he declined the same knighthood your mother was offered. I couldn't understand it, but it did not make him any less of an articulate man in my eyes.

It was Ena's turn, and her mind split the difference between strategy and her father. "My mother told me he was a kind man with many ideas." She chose her next piece. "But…he was also a man who was duty-bound." She made her move.

"I agree. He took his position seriously," Denver claimed. "Defense Minister Aaron struck up a friendship with him. Your father was quite the diplomat. I'm sure it's due to the experiences he had that he became as innovative and eloquent as he was." He moved his piece. "And I'm very sure those traits run strongly through you."

"Thank you, sir." Ena debated about her next move.

"In truth, your father gifted me the board you see before you."

That gave Ena pause, and she could not hide her bewilderment. "He did?"

Denver chuckled. "Aye. That he did," he confirmed. "It was his gift to me for broadening his opportunities. I hadn't done much. He had done it himself with his talks and ideas. But he gifted it to me and taught me the game. He told me he and Dame Erza often played it." Pale yellows studied Ena. "He hoped his children would also learn the game. I'm sure he's proud you've become quite the player."

Ena chuckled as well and decided her plan of attack, plotting her piece. "I'm not all that. There are better chess players. I believe, as it stands, a Blue Pegasus Mage Harken has taken the stage as a chess protégé. I've faced him and can regrettably say my win-loss ratio with our matches isn't something to be proud about."

"I see." Denver thought about his next move. "Jellal and I often had the most fascinating theoretical talks. Though"—he smiled as he made his next move—"I'm sure that's something you've experienced first-hand."

Ena's eyes shimmered before those browns looked down. "No, sir. My… My father left when I was born for an assignment he's still on." She picked up her next piece. "I never had the pleasure of that experience with him…or hearing his voice, really." She moved her piece and waited, but her gaze averted.

Denver grew somber. "I see. I apologize, young lady, for drawing up any unpleasantness. Dame Erza often pardons your father from function attendance due to an assignment, but I hadn't realized it was a continuous one. You have my sympathies."

"There's no need for them, sir." Ena looked up for resolved chocolate to connect with pale yellow. "My mother gave me everything I could ever want. I might not have my father with me, but I'm grateful for this life."

Denver blinked. Then he laughed. "You're right. I misspoke. As someone so successful for your age, your life has been a blessing. Forgive me for being remiss." He looked back at her, soft. "Though, I will have to say… Your eyes just now." A fond smile. "You have your father's eyes."

That caught Ena off-guard. "I…do?"

"Yes." The fond little smile grew. "In my opinion, of course. Your mother has passion as well, but in that moment before…that look in your eye reminded me of your father. Confident and unbending."

Ena looked down, processing. She murmured, "Thank you, sir."

"Of course."

They returned to the game.

It was a handful of moves on both their parts with stretched-out silences during all the deliberation. Pieces were collected in this battle of wits at a give and take. He would claim a piece, but she would get even. Not one piece would be left unavenged.

Denver mentioned, "Nora had told me you and he would duel by old Duel Law. I assume you claimed his sword once he yielded." He chortled when Ena tensed. "It's all right, young lady. I'm not upset, nor would I dishonor him and you for asking for it back." He went back for his tea. "It's a ring thing, your new sword."

"Yes. Nora told me part of its origins."

Denver hummed. "I'm sure he did." A few more swallows. "I had to chain the sword from leaking its Curse onto anyone else and seal it away. Curse Consultants and Occults are hard to come by without connections, but I could tell it was a weapon made by the Forge. It was far too rare for me to let go. But Nora seemed to have tamed it." He paused. "Still. I must say I feel relieved he's no longer in possession of it."

"Why?" Ena could not help but ask.

"You'll find me an overly-worried parent, but I could tell that that sword… It would not bend for him."

Ena's eyes widened.

Denver finished his tea and went to make himself another cup. "Weapons of The Forge are legendary. The reason being, those weapons have a will of their own to choose their masters. And while Nora received widely acclaimed praise and notice for taming a Cursed sword… I knew that sword would never be his. In the end, I trusted him with that sword to find its proper master." He mixed honey into his tea. "You have questions. Ask them."

"How could you know that it wouldn't be his?" Ena queried. "Did you know that it would be…?"

"Yours?" Denver shook his head. "No, I didn't." He finished stirring and blew on his tea before the next sip. "I have my own weapon from the Forge passed down from generation to generation. Whomever I choose as the next Marquis will inherit it. I know how a weapon chooses its meister…and that Cursed sword never chose Nora like how my weapon chose me." He set down his tea. "But I suppose I can't have the credit for knowing the sword would never yield to him. In fact, once I had put out my search for a Curse Consultant, I had a visitor who told me that the sword would never heed anyone in the estate."

Ena blinked twice. "A…visitor?"

"Yes." Denver nodded. "A strange visitor. He was a peculiar man"—pale yellows clashed with dark chocolates—"with scarlet hair."

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Fairy Adventure

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Ena considered that description. A man with scarlet hair…

"He wasn't a Curse Consultant or an Occult. In fact, the guards were insistent to have him arrested for trespassing on the property," Denver narrated. "But this man was insistent to speak with me, no matter the cost of detainment. I asked him what he wanted."

Ena questioned, "And what did he want?"

"He challenged me." Denver's lips twitched. "He wanted a match against me in chess."

A chess match? Ena echoed.

Denver offered a huff of laughter. "I can tell by your expression you're in disbelief, but it's true. He wanted a chess match, and he wouldn't leave the property without one. It was late, and I could tell he had something to say. So, I invited him in and sat him down right where you are for a chess match. We toasted with whiskeys and cigars." A gentle sadness and adoration gleamed in pale yellows. "My late wife enjoyed a cigar and whiskey as much as I did. The man and I toasted to her for the match."

He went on: "We played, but he was…quiet. I was sure he wanted a conversation about money or bribery, but he told me he wanted nothing of the sort. Instead, he wanted a match against me. His prize? Unknown. My prize? His identity. And we played. It wasn't until we were halfway through he heard rumors I was looking for a Curse Consultant for the sword."

A fireplace birthing childish flames. Whiskey nearly gone and the scent of smoke lingering the air. The fire touching a jaw and the beginnings of a sleek mask.

"He asked about the sword, and I indulged him in how I acquired and its description. He listened to every word," continued Denver. "I thought he was going to request the sword as his prize, but I was preemptive in telling him the sword would stay with me. But the man with scarlet hair told me that the sword would never find a master here. That was the reason it cursed those who held it. It was furious unworthy wielders tried to make it their slave—a dumb weapon. And the sword's anger would poison the entire estate until it went back to its rightful master."

Denver shook his head, amused. "I humored him. I asked him if he knew of this so-called 'chosen master'. A weapon of the Forge can shift alliances under the right conditions. But he told me he had a hunch. And do you want to know what he said?"

"What?" Ena breathed.

"He told me…'the one who held the power of the white moon could wield the power of the black sun'." Denver searched Ena's blank face. "Do those words mean anything to you?"

The white…moon? Ena's hand twitched as she felt Lunagr'an's energy course through her. But…he couldn't have meant…

Denver spoke, "He forewarned me the sword would hungrily search for its twin—the moon. Its blade had blackened from its constant search and anger and it would be stained the same scarlet as his hair had the blade remained in the custody of those unworthy. He told me as a meister to a weapon of the Forge, I should understand the severity of those consequences."

Ena could not speak.

"It went silent for a while," Denver recounted. "We continued our game. But before we approached the end…I asked him if he truly believed that a sword so fraught with fury could have a serious wielder. And his words to me were… 'It's not a matter of 'could'…"

• — • — •

"It's a matter of will."

A gloved hand moved a white knight as the rain kicked up outside with muted bursts of thunder. The fire danced, sleepy, but its oranges bathed amongst the duo who played a game of strategy.

"That sword isn't cursed. But with enough time, you'll have a real Cursed sword on your hands. And no one outside of a Demon or otherwise will be able to tolerate the madness it possesses."

The gloved hand went for their jacket pocket. "The way I see it, you have two options. Option number one." A cigarette cartridge came out, and he bumped out a joint. "You can give the sword to its rightful master for all parties to have peace and freedom. Or…"

A light came out to burn the tip of the cigarette.

"You can have a weapon of pure insanity locked in your basement." A needed drag was taken. "And all the freedom you have and take advantage of…underneath a sword that chaotic…"

The flames licked up higher as oranges showed scarlet hair.

"…all your freedom will be nothing more than a lie."

• — • — •

Silence held Ena in its web.

Denver sighed. "After that, he beat me in three more moves. I was sure his wager would still be to reclaim the sword from me. But it wasn't. He put out his cigarette and told me he'd let me hang onto the sword for a little longer. He had a different wager for me instead with its own preset conditions."

"And what was his wager?" Her voice felt weaker than it should have been.

A bit of mischief flared in Denver's grin. "Should you win, I'll let you in on it and allow you to have your prize of grandeur," he decided. He gestured to the board.

Right. It was Ena's turn again at this point. As she decided on her next plan of attack, she questioned, "What happened to the man with scarlet hair?"

"He told me our meeting was the first and last time he would see me," Denver told. "But he hoped I'd continue to play chess. He offered his regards to my late wife." Pale yellows flickered. "He offered other words too. But I walked him to the door. The final words he told me were to remember to see into the future. Having one eye in the past could bring me nothing but sorrow. And he left in the rain without a trace. Quite a tale."

"Yes." Ena nodded, eyes low. "Quite."

Another silence blanketed them. They kept moving back and forth as pieces were captured and others promoted. The game was closing in, and they both could feel it. It only took a few short moves until—

"Checkmate." Ena's announcement filled the space between them with her white rooks cornering the black king, which had nowhere left to turn.

Denver smiled. "As expected. A gifted strategist like your parents." He reclined into the grandfather's chair. "I willingly admit my defeat. Well done, young lady."

"Thank you, Mister Gosling," Ena appreciated in a murmur.

Denver hummed, and those pale yellows drifted to the mantel of the fireplace with numerous pictures propped. "I apologize to you for Irina. She does care for Nora and my children an awful lot as well as her faith in the Holy Eye. She can be…misguided at times and may say and do the wrong thing, but deep down, her intentions are good."

Nora's words came back to Ena. "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."

"Your son said something similar," Ena said. "I bear no grudge against the Marchioness. It's natural for a mother to want what's best for her son, and I'm no stranger to this sort of…intervention." However, I can maintain caution around her. I can't forget what Silver said or Nora.

"I accidentally overheard the Marchioness speaking to someone I couldn't recognize," came Silver's explanation, "but she called him 'High Brother'. And they were talking about bringing you over to the Holy Eye and matching you with Nora. They sounded so…confident their plan would work once you met this 'Mother Clarion'."

"I'm aware my mother meets with sisters and brothers of the Holy Eye, but for what purposes, I'm not sure," Nora's words floated. "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."

Dark chocolates obscured with deep thought. Regardless that the Marchioness has a weak mentality, she's under the thumb of this Mother Clarion of the Enchant Convent and Father Johannes. And if—no—that fact they suspect I'm a Master Enchanter means they'll poke and prod me for a weakness, and the Marchioness has an easy way to do that—through Nora and without Silver. Her hands clenched onto her skirt. I can't let that happen. However…for me to know why they want me and collect Enchanters…it would be wise for me to play along with their game of cat and mouse and poke and prod them. If I plan this right, I know I could—

"No, you don't."

Her eyes widened as she found herself back in the bathtub with a seething Silver.

"You might think you're prepared for anything, but you're not. You don't know what it's like to be completely helpless—where you can't even fight because they keep beating you and you can't even defend yourself because they've got you chained. It doesn't matter how strong or smart you think you are. You don't know what it's like."

A broken whisper. "Those people who use Anti-Ether kidnapped my brother for three years, and you want to tell me you can handle this when I had to listen to him scream in his sleep, begging to die?"

Harsh blues. "I don't want your pity or your excuses or your comfort! You would have died, Ena. You could have been taken like Gary. And you still think you have everything under control. That if you just get stronger, facing Hunters will be no problem for you. Gary begged for our dad to kill him, Ena, because of those people! And you're sitting here, telling me that nothing about yesterday matters because you had it 'under control'!"

Ena locked her jaw, eyes shimmering. He's just emotional. This is different, she insisted. Trauma can blind a person is all. If the Holy Eye wants me, they wouldn't use Anti-Ether. It doesn't make sense. He'll understand that once he calms down. He'll see it my way that he's worrying over nothing. A flicker of doubt battered against her sound reasoning for a future where he would understand.

Ena broke from her thoughts when Denver spoke again. "I do hope you enjoy the reception ball tonight. The knights and those recommended will be in attendance with dates of their choosing alongside other benefactors of the Church and personal guests of my own and Irina's. But know this." Pale yellows hardened. "I do not expect you to make an acquaintance with every guest you see. How you spend the reception ball is your decision and who you meet depends on you. No one can nor will give you an introduction unwanted."

It registered within Ena what his words meant. So he knows the Marchioness was planning for me to meet Mother Clarion…and he's against that plan. Him, Atticus, Nora—they're all against Irina. I can understand the sons, but…not the Marquis. She nodded. "I understand."

"Good." Denver sat back up. "May I ask for your wager? There's no limit. Ask and you shall receive."

Ena thought about it. "I'd like to defer my winnings for a later date," she decided. "I have nothing I particularly want. I'll decline from selecting for now."

Denver grinned. "A smart move. Earning a favor from a Marquis could open up a door of opportunities to you in the future." He came forward to put away the pieces, and Ena helped him. "I hope you'll indulge me in another game in the future, young lady. I'm sure Nora would be pleased to have you for an opponent as well."

"I will have to confer with my assistant and my schedule, but I'd enjoy another match with you as well, Mister Gosling."

Denver stopped Ena from putting away her queen. "Keep that out. May I see this hand?" When Ena gave her her palm with the white queen in it, he spilled the black queen into her hand as well before closing her fingers and patting them. "You've won this match and, therefore, you have won the most powerful pieces."

For a moment, astonishment hit Ena until she shot him an impressed smile. "So you do understand chess."

Denver laughed. "I have to allude to your father for that tidbit of advice," he confided. "He had asked me as he set the board which chess piece I found the most important. Of course, the most obvious answer was the king. For the king was the reason a game was lost. But he told me it was a deception. Now, why do you think that is?"

"It's simple." Ena thumbed the two queens in her hand. "The queen holds the most power on the board with the highest value. The loss of one queen is the equivalent of nine pawns. Not only that, but the queen also has freedom no other piece has when it comes to mobility. Alongside her rook, they can overtake a board with little restrictions. And finally, a lone king can't be killed by just any piece. Not even another king can defeat the enemy king alone. It takes a queen to overpower a lone king. The king having so much prowess is nothing more than deception. The one who holds the true power is none of than the queen."

Denver looked proud of her diagnosis. "Precisely. Almost word for word what your father told me," he told her. He looked at the black and white queens in her hand. "In this country, we have a queen who rules with no king at her side. Some say that makes us weak. But it makes us strong. In chess, a king will always maintain his position. But a queen can be made. She can be a simple soldier—a pawn. She can be a knight. But her power was never given to her. She was molded into her role, which makes her all the more precious and powerful. It's one thing to be born into power and remain immobile and helpless. It's another to use that power."

He nodded at her queens. "Those queens represent strength, freedom, and cunning—all the necessities that make a queen. Treasure them well in my loss to you."

"I will." Ena looked back at Denver. "But what about your chess set?"

"I have others," Denver assured. "I rarely use this set, but I thought it appropriate for our match. It'll remain as a proud keepsake from a treasured friend, I assure you. And who knows, perhaps when you come for our next match, you might win more pieces. A king, for example. Or your own knight."

Ena chuckled. "I look forward to it, Mister Gosling."

A knight or a king… Huh… She rolled the two queens in her palm. Which to wish for next to accompany my queens…

°•°•°•°

Nora perked when the doors opened, and Ena came out with Denver waiting at the frame. He offered his arm with a smile and asked the pair of them, "Who won?"

"Who do you think?" Denver jested. "If you couldn't beat her, an old man like myself stood no chance. But I look forward to our next match."

Nora looked down at Ena in softness. "As do I."

The tips of Ena's ears went pink.

Denver could not keep back his smile. "Young lady, it was a pleasure to play against you and converse. I hope to see you at the reception ball."

Ena bowed. "Thank you, My Lord." She smiled, embarrassed, when Denver raised an eyebrow. "Thank you, Mister Gosling."

"Mmm." Amusement wrote on Denver's face. He nodded at his son. "We'll talk later, Nora, but I'd advise you keep an eye on the young miss. She has her mother's beauty, her father's eyes, and inherited both of their brilliant minds. A combination, I think, that will give her some favor at the reception ball."

Nora nodded back with a cheeky grin. "Once we finish greeting the guests, I'll strive to be charming and entertaining enough to hold her interest."

Denver chuckled over Ena's flush. "Very good." He nodded. "I'll see you both this evening." And he retired into his study.

Ena muttered to Nora, "I see where you inherited your lack of subtlety."

Nora laughed as he escorted Ena away. "I take it my father was open with you?"

"He said some profound things, yes," Ena gave. "But I can understand the admiration of him." Browns gentled. "And I can tell he's a good father. You're lucky to have him."

"I am," Nora agreed as he looked down the hall. "He's been good to me since I arrived at the estate. And while he is my father, he never had any obligation to show me kindness, considering my existence is a stain on his. But he did. And I can't be thankful enough."

Ena hummed. It's easy to tell Mister Gosling cares about Nora. That's good. A sad smile. I shouldn't be envious. After all…I can't compare with a man I never met. It is what it is. Her smile fell. Either way, Mother never breathed a word that he and the Marquis knew each other. She had every opportunity…so why didn't she? And another thing…

"A strange visitor. He was a peculiar man with scarlet hair."

A man with scarlet hair came to warn him about Soledia. He insinuated he knew the master of Soledia—which means he knew I was the one who would wield her. But Mystogan is the only person I know with hair like mine and Mother's and that's not possible. A man with scarlet hair…

Ena's jaw went taut. Who is he?

And her fingers rolled over the black and white queens in her hand.

---

Dante's drive through the forest-driven town was not too confusing with his GPS, but he certainly saw the appeal of living here. Nature was everywhere you turned with trimmed trees living to their full potential. He passed Tri-C a while back, but the "commercial area" came on the upswing of a hill. This early in the day, he did not expect too many faces out and about, but it looked like some of the lots had a barrage of vehicles as people went in and out of a few restaurants and other stores.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Clover Town

Fiore, Ishgar

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Dante double-checked his Compact as the next hill took him out of the commercial area. Should be coming up soon…

"Are you there yet?"

Dante smiled at Carlisle's whine as he checked his mirrors. "Not yet, Lips. I have a few minutes left. And shouldn't I be the one complaining since I'm the one meeting them and not you?"

Carlisle huffed. "What? I'm not supposed to be excited my boyfriend is about to be ultra-rich?"

"I'm not spoiling you with my hard-earned salary," Dante said dryly as he turned down a street. "You're spoiled enough. You don't need me to shower you in presents your goldfish mind will forget in three seconds."

"Rude!" Carlisle cried. "I deserve to be spoiled!"

"A spoiled brat maybe." Dante craned his neck and squinted through the trees. Huh… This is interesting…

"Whatever," Carlisle grumbled. "Here I thought I could be your cheerleader when all you do is make me feel undervalued. Rude prince."

Dante breathed a chuckle. "If that's your way of implying you'll wear a cheerleader outfit for me when I come home, I promise to let you have one scoop of ice cream."

"Ooooh… You son of a…!" Carlisle sounded pouty. "Manipulation? Bribery? Really? I thought you'd be above such things, Prince."

"I'm not an honorable royal, princess. I fight quick and dirty." Dante grinned when he heard Carlisle's snort. "And you'd look even more tempting as a cheerleader."

Carlisle laughed. "I've been with cheerleaders. Not as much fun as you think, guys or girls. I'd be a disappointment to you." He excitedly clapped his hands. "Ooo, we could do role play though!" His voice dropped, husky and sinful as he purred, "What do you say, Prince? You can be the hunky captain with all those rippling pectorals and I'll be your sweet head cheerleader who sneaks into the locker room when you win your big game."

Dante grunted and shifted at the stir in his pants. "Those lips of yours are going to get you in a lot of trouble when I'm home, princess," he growled darkly. "I have a meeting to go to. I'm not about to go into this half-cocked."

"Should I help you take off the tension?" Carlisle teased in a husky breath. "Quick and dirty, right? I can be very quick and very dirty for you, Prince."

The GPS pinged he had arrived, and Dante flowed down the forgiving cul-de-sac to approach a large house with one floor, but the extensive garage was obviously used for repairs and experiments. As he backed into the driveway, he warned Carlisle, "I know you're cocky now because I'm not there. What do you think will happen when I am in front of you, princess?"

Carlisle audibly gulped and muttered weakly, "You don't play fair."

"Quick and dirty, remember?" Dante cut the engine and disconnected his Compact to put it to his ear. "I made it. Here's to hoping everything goes well. My gut is telling me these are good people, which is why I agreed to the meeting, but still…"

"You're going to do great!" Carlisle cheered him on, meaning every word. "They'd be complete idiots to not give you a fair partnership. You're a hard worker and incredibly smart and talented, Prince. You only deserve the very best." Tone soft. "Keep doing what you're doing, Prince. You're amazing. Remember that."

Dante was glad Tesla was not here to take a picture of his shy smile (because she would and she would frame it). "Thanks, Lips. I love you."

"I love y—Ahahahahaha…!"

Dante frowned when he heard Carlisle's laughter mixed with wheezing, but his cock jumped hearing a lengthy moan. "Lips?"

But Carlisle panted, "Tantan, stop—! Ahahahahha…! Tantan…!"

Much to Dante's dismay, Aphtan came onto the Com line with that cool voice of his and said, "Carlisle-po is unable to speak with you now, Carlisle-po's lover." Whatever was happening on the other end brought out Carlisle's laughing pleas and whimpers. "Don't worry. He's in my care."

Agitation was never an emotion Dante could get used to having, but it spiked when he heard Carlisle begs of Aphtan's name. But he calmed himself with the hook in his chest. He's being tickled. You can feel it. He's trying to get under your skin. "I'll come for him after my meeting." A warning melted in his words. "And he'll be coming home with me."

"Perhaps." Aphtan had stopped, and Carlisle's panting and gasping could be heard in the background. "Enjoy your meeting, Carlisle-po's lover. I'll make sure to keep Carlisle-po company." And he ended the call.

Dante rubbed his face. Of course he words it like that. Of course. He sighed and grabbed his work backpack. The property did not have to worry about prying neighbors with all the trees surrounding, but the neighbors were easy to spot from the tip of the driveway. He made his way up the drive—

"Hey!"

Dante stopped and pivoted to the garage to see Asuna had come out in a ponytail with her coveralls exposed and the top rolled down to show her tank top. Goggles settled on her head. To her credit, living in such a forest area and the weather today made everything feel humid. She waved him over as she stood next to a sleek vehicle that looked out of place.

Asuna welcomed him with a sunny smile and a handshake. "Hi! Thanks for coming!"

"Thank you for having me." Dante released her hand to glance around. "Is this your shop?"

"That it is!" Asuna said with pride. "I do most of my creations in-house or in the basement lab. Oswald has his massive system in the house." Her smile turned rueful as she beckoned him into the entrance to the house through the garage. "We live in organized chaos. Sorry for it."

"It's fine."

Asuna opened the door and took him through the mudroom, where they both took off their shoes and Asuna got them both house slippers. The kitchen was the first room Dante saw, and it was a little too immaculate for "chaos."

"We barely use the kitchen," Asuna told him, sheepish. She got out two glasses before she went to the refrigerator. "Ozzy and I prefer to eat out since we both aren't the greatest cooks." She held up a pitcher of water. "Would you like some?"

"Yes, thank you."

"All right." Asuna pointed. "Why don't you have a seat in the sunroom and we can talk there?"

Dante obliged and followed the path Asuna had pointed for him. The sunroom certainly had its charm with bonsai trees and seamless windows that curved down from the ceiling and flooded into the ground. A zen garden bamboo waterfall trickled into its stone basin to set those who stepped into the sunroom at ease, but Dante found himself impressed with the few. After a small clearing of grass, the forest was thick and alive beyond the boundary.

"Here we go."

Dante took a seat at the dining room table as Asuna came over with fresh water and a sandwich. He took the water with a nod. "Thank you."

"No problem." Asuna sat across from him with her water and sandwich. "I'm sure you're beginning to realize this isn't a conventional meeting."

Dante offered a lopsided smile. "Recruitment meetings vary, but most of them try to schmooze me with dinners or attending a match somewhere. But I prefer this, actually."

"We considered inviting you out to a fancy dinner," Asuna confessed, "but Ozzy doesn't like fancy attire and neither do I. And if we were hopeful you'd work with us, we wanted you to see the environment we work in." Her eyes glowed with hope. "Is it working?"

Dante chuckled. "Maybe."

"I'll take that as a positive," Asuna determined as she sat crisscrossed on her seat and inhaled a few bites of her sandwich. "Ozzy's in the zone trying to find a mysterious friend, but he'll be out shortly."

Dante tilted his head, curious. "A friend?"

"More like a pain in Ozzy's ass," Asuna snickered. "Ozzy's good at all his fun IT stuff, but our mysterious friend is better. They hand us a lot of information and tips, and it pisses Ozzy off he can't detect a trace of them. He's trying to now, but it's no use. We have a guardian angel, and he wants to deprive himself of that."

Dante's lips twitched. "I see."

Asuna finished her sandwich in record time and reveled in her snack. "But all things aside…" She leaned forward, elbows on the table with her hands clasped together, and all her fun and friendliness turned into solemnity. "Mister Princeton-O'Neill—"

"My name is fine," Dante was quick to interject.

"Dante," Asuna amended, "I know you've been hunted down since you became an official Enchanter—the youngest Enchanter the world has ever seen. I'm aware that your tutelage under the Forge had people crawling out of the woodwork to have you contracted to them. I'm sure they offered you money and glory for that exchange. And I'm most definitely certain they wanted you as a trophy instead of an actual Enchanter."

Dante lifted his chin. "They did." He was honest. "And they still do."

"I don't doubt that," Asuna agreed. "They'd be beside themselves to let a student of The Forge slip away. In fact, all her previous students from her school went on to become high earners in the market and many of them are still employed to this day at firms and other companies for their skills." She stared him down. "What makes you different?"

"Nothing," Dante supposed. "I had promised my parents my education would come first. And I didn't want to overwhelm myself."

Asuna pursued, "I'm sure offers have come into work around your educational schedule."

"And they have," Dante evenly agreed. "But I have no interest in becoming an underpaid intern if I'm doing a majority of the heavy work, and I have no interest in relocating. I plan to stay in Fiore until I finish my degree. After that, I'll continue to vet offers that want me as a trophy instead of for my skill."

Asuna hummed, but she continued to stare at him. "I won't lie. Both myself and Oswald did a little bit more of a thorough background on you—on things, I'm sure, my competitors couldn't find. I'm aware of your side projects, Mister Tinkerbell."

Dante's eyes slightly narrowed.

Asuna pressed on, "I'm not judgmental. In fact, both myself and Oz got recruited because of our own side projects. We understand where you're coming from, and we wouldn't hold it against you nor stop you. You're a private contractor, the same as us. But our research gave us a better understanding of what set you apart from the herd." A lengthy exhale. "I'm going to be real. At first, we were concerned that you turned down internships. We were worried you might have a complex. But it's clear you understand your worth and the position you're in. And it's also clear those other firms can't give you the freedom you need."

"And you can?" Dante challenged, sitting forward, hands clasped. "Miss Freeman—"

"My name is fine," Asuna parroted.

A flicker went through Dante's eyes. "Asuna, I've had larger firms from across the world offer me salaries and incentives that could set me and my family for life. They've laid it on thick with promises that their contracts contradicted. I wasn't going to be a creative mind—I was going to be paraded around to sign my name on things for buyers would sweep for any piece allegedly made by The Forge's star pupil. So tell me"—his arms tensed—"what exactly can you offer me that they couldn't?"

Asuna studied him. A grin lit her face, and she hollered, "Oswald?"

"Yeah." Oswald came in with a happy bunny cuddled in one arm and a tablet in another with a jersey on and a backwards cap. He put the table before Dante to show an e-document. "This is our offer."

Dante looked at Oswald for a moment before he went over the offer with careful eyes.

Oswald sat next to Asuna and cradled Bailey the bunny with both arms (who nuzzled into him because, yes, bunnies were often like a mixture of a needy cat and a clingy dog). "We're both private contractors for a reason. We both received countless offers with firms for notoriety, but their offers limited what we could do. We'd have to keep reporting to someone for approval."

"We don't like to do that," Asuna chipped in. "If they vetoed our idea, it meant projects we were hyper-focused on would get shut down." She rubbed Bailey's head. "Neither one of us could handle that. We needed that freedom to push boundaries. And with the proper backing, we got it."

Dante looked between them, curious rather than suspicious. "What do you mean by that?"

"I'm a Techno-Alchemist," Oswald explained. "I did a lot of work on Lacroids and their programming to give them free will over the programming of their masters when I was younger as a side gig and was a hacker. Ended up securing a lifetime of funding from a Lacroid who lives their life as a wealthy human."

"And my side gigs landed me in a lot of trouble until I met someone who would listen to my crazy ideas," Asuna chuckled. "The point is, while we can't offer you the same eight-figured salaries you'd get underneath larger firms, the money we'd offer you for your projects and commissions is nothing to sneeze at."

Dante scrolled through the details of the offer. "And it says here I'd have my own workspace. I can choose it."

"We work from home," Asuna explained. "We don't have a big glass building since we don't find the need. Everything we do, we do in-house. Unless there was a project you and I had to be involved in, we want you to be able to use your creativity in a place you feel comfortable." She jerked her thumb to the outside. "We do have a space out back. We keep it updated, but neither one of us use it anymore. You're free to use it, though. It has its own private drive since I used to work on Sky Boats and cars out there."

Dante hummed. "This does sound great. But the way everything is worded, it looks like I'll be mainly independent." He eyed the pair. "What do two private contractors get out of this?"

"An Enchanter," Oswald said.

"Right. We have to outsource for our projects to an Enchanter." Asuna's face turned into a scowl. "Unfortunately, their rates are much more than their quality of work is. They don't understand how to properly appraise themselves.

"Also, while the ones we use do bring back our projects within the deadlines, during our consultations with them, they don't have the scope of vision we need for our projects. Not to say they aren't good, but they refuse to think outside a plan. They can't contribute even when we invite them to for their professional opinion. We don't need a by-the-books person. We need someone who can contribute and add on to our work to maximize its efficiency and potential."

Dante pitched up an eyebrow. "I see. And you think I can?"

"Considering the talk of 'Mister Tinkerbell' floating around with all your modifications, I'd say so," Oswald drawled.

Dante hmphed and finished reading the offer, sitting back. He looked between Oswald and Asuna. "Your offer is tempting," he gave to them. "We'd have to negotiate a few terms, but I can agree with the salary, the hazard pay, and my percentage from commissions and joint projects."

Oswald observed him. "But you're still not convinced."

"Unfortunately," Dante replied without a scrap of shame. "My main priority is finishing my degree. But even that, I need to understand how soon I'd be working on projects, considering my work at the garage is consistent. I'd like to understand where I would be during the proposals of your own schematics since I'll be your in-house Enchanters. And finally, what's your position on my continuation of being a private contractor?"

"We won't bar you from the projects you already do," Asuna quickly relayed. "But we can confidently say your work will be steady here and possibly with long hours. We would like you to be with us when we have to do presentations of our plans to our clients, but we'll consult you first and foremost for your input and adjustments.

"As the Enchanter to our team, we both want you to be able to speak with our clients on their expectations of their product. Some of them will be insistent on an idea that can't magically or physically work. We expect you to understand those mechanics and break it down for them. If you like, we can offer you a Compact for our client base alone. You'll have full access to their accounts, but some of them like constant contact."

Asuna tipped her chin down. "In regards to your degree, we understand your priority is your education and won't interfere. But you set the limitations on what you can handle and have every right to sideline the project."

"And when would this start?" Dante asked. "I'd like to make sure my garage has interviews, at least, for another Enchanter. And I'll be attending iAIM this summer in the Nácarlines."

Asuna smiled. "We know. We'll be visiting iAIM actually since a friend of ours is on the panel of judges and advisors. We could have you start the contract in September. It's by annual renewal where we'll reassess the projects you complete, your expanded range, and your accounts and income, and increase accordingly."

"Not a continual contract?"

"No," said Oswald. "We understand this locks you in with us until that year is over. But your offer does come with stipulations should you be unable to work with us before your contract expires. We can negotiate the terms."

Dante nodded and took it all in. The offer is one that's the most unusual and it promotes my freedom. My advisor has been nervous I never took a single offer and couldn't understand why I didn't do internships. She said working at a garage would hinder my future and I'd be stupid to not take the opportunities. She even questioned why a certified Enchanter would want to be a Magi-Engineer. But…

"You must wait, đấu thủ."

• — • — •

The flames from the furnace glowed within the cavern as the focus watched a woman in her apron and goggles slog over her anvil to mold her creation into perfection.

CLANG!

She took a breath. "You must wait for the right opportunity to use the skills I am teaching you," she told him. "Don't be like my former students and be tempted by greed and gold. Don't succumb to that pressure. Don't succumb to the weight of the world and its war-driven politics."

CLANG!

She stopped hammering to study her creation on the anvil. "You are more than that. Once you finish here, you must be patient. Don't find opportunities and settle for nothing outside of your worth, nothing more and nothing less. She will present you with the perfect opportunity for you to use your skills to change the world, not stain it in blood."

She looked at him and oranges paved to show the glistening tan skin of a jaw and a cheek, but deep gashes rode upwards in a darkened brown-red.

"You will never settle for anything else outside what is worthy of you, đấu thủ. You're the student who will carry my work long after I am gone." A smile. "And I have faith She will guide you in the right direction as She promised me She would for my sole successor."

• — • — •

Her guidance stuck with me. It inspired me to get my degree instead of throwing myself into the chaos. Combined with Magi-Engineering, I've been able to explore more and more with magical technology. Dante softened. She's had all this faith in me. I can't let her down when she taught me so much. Giáo viên…

"Teacher. Gone." Weepy chocolates. "T-T-Teacher… Giáo viên…"

Dante darkened, conflicted. Carlisle said she doesn't speak Bachanmese, and I didn't want to press since she seemed so upset at herself. Still… The sooner I see Teacher, the better.

BEE-BEE-BEE-BEE-BEEP.

Oswald offloaded Bailey to Asuna. "Excuse me. That should be Captain."

As he left, Dante asked, "'Captain'?"

"Yeah. He's our captain from our Magic Council days, but we still call him 'Captain'." Asuna rubbed under Bailey's chin. "It's a force of habit, I guess, and it sticks. Once special forces, always special forces."

Silence.

"So…this is a military contract." Dante's hand clenched. "Both of you are military. My work would be used to fight against people." He got up and abandoned the tablet. "I think we're done here."

"What?" Asuna panicked a little when Dante walked out. "Wait! Hold on!"

Dante clenched his jaw as he found the mudroom to get back his shoes. "Thank you for the offer, but I'll have to decline."

Asuna slipped past him to barricade the door, confused and rattled. "Wait! It's not what you think," she tried to explain. "We don't work exclusively for the Magic Council or for the military. We're private contractors who get clients from all walks of life—"

"Including the military." Dante respectfully put his slippers away and looked ready to leave. Those dark eyes looked Asuna square in the way with unshakeable anger. "I don't do my work for it to be used on innocent people, Miss Freeman, and neither does my mentor. Thank you but no thank you."

"It isn't like that—"

"Isn't it?" Dante challenged. "I've been recruited by both the Council and the military before, and my answer remains the same. No." He clutched a strap on his bag. "I'm not a warhorse. I don't make things for people to abuse its power. And that's the reason my teacher retired. You turned her works of art into weapons that killed a number of innocents." He lifted his chin. "I'm sure you'll find a talented Enchanter to help you with your projects. But it won't be me."

"'Abuse its power'?"

Dante turned to see Oswald blocking the other exit with his unreadable gaze.

"It's ironic you say that when the abuse of power can come from any angle," Oswald said. "An app that's used for a children's game can be synched to machines to massacre people and the players none-the-wiser. The bots you've commissioned can be used against another human being. Even the cars you modified can be used as a weapon for murder." He jerked his chin. "Doesn't that mean every creation you've made could be abused to kill innocents?"

Dante clenched his jaw. "Thank you for your time, but I'm declining." He looked back at Asuna. "I should go."

Asuna stepped aside.

Dante reached for the door—

"We didn't put our lives on the line to murder innocent people."

Dante paused with his hand on the handle.

Asuna continued in a murmur, "I smuggled my way into special forces and falsified my records. A hacking job gone wrong for a client landed Oswald in the unit. We didn't do this because we're psychopaths." Determination. "We did our job to protect innocents. Beyond Fiore, there is a world of people out there who are dying because people think human lives are nothing more than livestock. We used our creations to save them and give them a better life. You might think the military fights without a purpose, but you're wrong.

"And that life is behind us unless the Captain needs us," Asuna went on. "We vet our clients carefully for the same reason you're turning your back on us. We try to eliminate any risk our work could be used against innocent life and only for their benefit. And we want to give you that opportunity. You're an incredible Enchanter, Dante. Don't let your prejudice stop you from helping people in need."

Silence befell Dante.

Asuna suggested, "Just…consider the offer? We don't need your answer right away, but please… Just consider it."

Dante tensed. But he nodded. "Thank you for your time." He abandoned the house and went all the way to his truck, but he had to sit there for a minute and rub down his face. Teacher was always beside herself that the people she trusted with her weapons used them in massacres and unjust violence, he remembered. But… What do I do now?

He sat his Compact lit up with Carlisle's contact and he answered the call. "Lips?"

"I could feel you getting angry," admitted Carlisle, tentative. "I wasn't sure if the meeting was over or—"

"No, it's over," Dante sighed as he started his truck and synched his Compact.

"I take it…it didn't go well?"

"You could say that." Dante pulled out of the driveway. "I have some things to think about. I'll call you later, Lips."

"Ah… Okay…" Four beats. "I love you, Dante."

Dante softened. "I love you too. I'll be there for you soon."

"Okay. See you."

"Bye." Dante ended the call with another loud exhale. Geez… He shifted. The trip to see Teacher can't come fast enough.

---

The city had fairly modernized with more southern fast-food restaurants and Lacrima cars and even a train station and a bus stop. Less and less people within the city wore traditional clothes of the Iñuipav and decided on more popular brands from southern continents. What was fascinating was how many southern concepts had been doctored into the city with a casino, bars, and a movie theater. Glaciumihos and Amaroks were popular work animals alongside a type of feline made from ice.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

« This is Inguza City located in Arcticados and home to Shaman Yuka. »

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Gary might have seen many things, but everything around him felt like a brand-new experience. The home was a cabin on the outskirts of town, built from scratch, and the furniture timeless. Relics passed from generation to generation bombarded the entire cabins, from tusk bowls to powders and fermenting wines and other herbal medicines. Most of the appliances were old-fashioned (though the LV looked brand-spanking-new), and Gary would have felt comfortable except…

"So…these are your Helper Spirits?" Gary felt cramped on the couch as peculiar-looking Spirits curious about him had crowded him, poking and prodding him. They looked like regular animals and yet…different. Some were off-colored from their natural tone, or their ears were wings, or they had dual sets of eyes.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Yuka's Home

Inguza City

Arcticados

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Yuka chuckled on her recliner with her pipe and her Glaciumiho at her side. "Yes. Sorry about all of them being cramped in here. Almost all of them are bound to some of the relics you see in here, and they don't normally come unless I need them. But they were all quite curious to see an Ice Devil."

"I'm, um…happy I could serve some sort of interest." Gary jumped when a paw tickled his side, but he looked down to see a snow-white kitten asking for his attention, born with no eyes, a split tail, and tuff on its ears. He picked it up, surprised when he felt its fur. "Oh, wow. It feels freezing. Like me."

The Spirit meowed as Gary sat it on its lap to pet.

"They're so docile—Oh." Gary stroked the snout of canid Spirit with antlers who prodded his stomach. "I thought they'd look like the Spirits from the Full Moon Festival."

Yuka took a puff. "No. Spirits can take many forms. Some look from our world and some don't. Some Spirits are capable of shifting their form into something adaptable to our world to make it easier on us mere humans to accept them."

"I see…" Gary smiled when the kitten Spirit rolled over and gave it belly rubs, much to the Spirit's delight. "Thank you for inviting me over today. Though, Miss Uki gave me a page-full of warnings when I told her about your invitation."

Yuka barked a laugh. "That girl. She thinks I'm full of bad habits just because I'm not the most conventional Shaman. Don't worry about her, Gary. She means well, but she can be rather intense at times."

"Yeah." Ceruleans softened. "So I noticed."

Yuka studied him. "How is your training with Miss Uki?"

"It's fine," Gary reported. "She's learning to be a little more comfortable, but it'll take some time. She's still struggling with her prejudice against Curses and me and her want to overcome her Curse and go back to the Spirits."

"I see." Yuka sat back in her seat for another puff. "Thank you for having patience with her. Once, she was a happier girl. But after the Polar Calamity, she was blackened with hatred and sorrow. I'm sure Nanuk would be proud to see the ice around her heart melting." She closed her eyes. "We both thank you for what you're doing, Gary. Though, I'm sure Nanuk told you herself."

That jolted Gary. "You knew she visited me?"

"I did." Another drag. "Nanuk was hopeful I would bring you to the Full Moon Festival once you arrived in Arcticados, but I thought it would be best that Uki brought you instead." Her eyes opened to catch the thoughtful frown on Gary's face. "Does it make you angry that Nanuk knew of you and did nothing?"

Ceruleans widened. "No, not at all!" A sad little smile touched Gary's face as he stroked the Spirit. "No, I… I understand why she'd be hesitant in helping me. It doesn't matter about the person I am. I'm a Devil, first and foremost. It makes sense people would think the most of me." Ceruleans dimmed. "I know I do."

Yuka hummed. "I'm sure that hot girlfriend you have thinks the best of you, if you know what I mean."

Red drew on Gary's face, startled. "Ex-Ex-Excuse me?"

Yuka cackled with a waggle of her eyebrows. "Come on, boy. You can't tell me a hot young thing like yourself doesn't make your girlfriend sing praises about you. I was young too, you know. I know a good one when I see one."

Gary's eye twitched as Yuka hooted. I… I don't know how to respond to this. He shrunk as he thought about a chibi-Kyler spitting fire and threatening him with his staff. The last time it happened, I was about to be forcefully ascended. He sweated. I'd like to stick around long enough to wear Angel down to marry me.

Yuka's cackle faded into a sigh. "Nashi Dragneel." A long puff. "Yes. It's fitting a Devil and an Agent would fall in love."

Gary sharpened. She knows the truth about Angel and her powers?

"No need to glare at me, boy." Yuka puffed and gestured to him. "It's easy to see an Agent's spiritual tie to you if you have vision like mine. You don't have to worry about the other Shamans. Until they get around my age, they won't be able to see spiritual ties or imprints, let alone recognize what they're staring at. Still, quite rare for a couple so young and in modern times to be bonded. That fell out of practice in the Middle Era."

Gary relaxed. I can sense she's sincere. "I don't think Angel or I understood what she did when we were younger," he told her. "But now, we do. A friend of ours told us it wasn't common either."

"Especially for such conflicting powers," Yuka commented. Another long drag, but the smoke rolled to show a horned creature and a feminine one, both with wings of contrasting beauty. "An Agent has the power to spread hope and peace wherever they go." The winged woman of smoke flapped her wings and looked proud and strong. "Whereas a Devil is capable of bringing war and destruction."

Gary watched as the winged smoke man with horns caught the winged woman and tumbled them into smoke.

Yuka sighed. "We call you a 'tuungak' in Iñuipakit. Tuungaks were always rumored to be omens of annihilation. With unfathomable power, Devils could be unstoppable." Another drag as Gary looked beside him. "But… Why do you think Devils lived in seclusion?"

Gary blinked. "Excuse me?"

"Don't you find it odd, boy?" Yuka murmured. "All of that power and chaos…and the Devil population lived in seclusion. That researcher at your trial said two-thousand Devils lived on Earth Land and yet"—another puff and a sigh—"it was others who attacked Devils instead of Devils attacking the humans. Why is that?"

Gary had a hunch as he looked down at the dozing Spirit kitten. "I can't be for certain this is the answer. But…in my experience, I've been misunderstood. People saw my body and thought I would eat them or kill them or kidnap them for whatever purpose, but that wasn't what I wanted." He stroked down the Spirit's spine. "I just wanted…"

"Peace?" Yuka suggested. "Quiet?"

"No." Gary humorlessly chuckled. "No, quiet is the last thing I need. Living in silence gives you time to think about all the bad in your life. No, I just wanted to be understood. I wasn't a bad person. I'd like to think I'm not. I wanted…someone. I wanted to have what everyone else had—community and happiness. But one look at me, and people wanted me dead…or worse."

Yuka's eyes saddened. "You haven't had it easy," she gave to him. "The Spirits can only offer so much, but it's clear to see you've never been a villain but a scapegoat for the true villains. As I'm sure other Devils before you have been." A drag. "I've never been convinced your race was killed for good reason. But who can say? You're the last natural-born of your kind. And it will put you in all sorts of hardships I can't begin to imagine."

"That sort of imagination isn't something I'd wish on anyone," Gary said, timbre quiet.

"It's certainly something I wish someone as young as you didn't have." Yuka watched as even Nuuva looked curious about Gary and scratched her head. "The Spirits told me you could be trusted and befriended. It's part of the reason for my invitation. I've been wanting to meet you since Nanuk told me what the Spirits told her. About your nature and you being Uki's hope to finding herself again."

Gary laughed. "I'm afraid you're overestimating me a little, Miss Yuka. You see, I'm still finding myself." Ceruleans shimmered in memories. "No… I'm not the one you should put faith in when I don't have that much faith in myself."

"I disagree."

Gary lifted his head to meet Yuka's gaze.

"Your hardships will continue," Yuka told him. "Even after such terrible beginnings to your story, you have much more to overcome. You think yourself lost and unworthy and maybe even unnatural and impure. It's unfair that you think such things and even more unfair there are too many people in the world who would agree with that description and kill you for it. But know this. Your strength to push through those hardships makes you the perfect teacher for Uki."

"How?" Gary wondered.

"Because you've seen things and you understand," Yuka replied. "You've known suffering. You've known death. And you've known loneliness and grief. Uki's situation could never compare to your horrors. But your strength to fight and to be kind is showing her the world isn't as black and white as she thought, and neither is she. You're opening her eyes to the world in front of her.

Ceruleans darkened. "No offense, but I'd rather she not see the world I see." His shoulders tensed. "The world I live in isn't one she should know. Not with the enemies in my world."

"Ah, yes." A lengthy puff that billowed before Gary. "Do you mean…Invel Yura?"

Blank blues glowed through the smoke to paralyze Gary before the smoke extinguished.

Gary could breathe again. "You know him?"

"Of him," Yuka said with a wave to the Spirits floating around her house, always the curious lot who liked to play with human things. "The Spirits know things and tell things. There are those of us who are a friend to the Spirits. And Invel Yura…"

Blank glacial blues. An eternal winter. Lashes flaked in snow and strands of bleached blue tipped in ice.

Yuka's eyes dimmed. "You could say…he was a child of one. Just as you are a child of Winter."

Gary opened his mouth, but he shut it as his jaw locked and his fingers dug into his shorts. The Spirit kitten woke up to stretch and leaped from his lap to disappear. Other Spirits could feel Gary's freezing winter and smartly disappeared while Nuuva whined and laid down.

Measured, Gary rumbled, "That man and I are nothing alike. I don't want to be disrespectful, but I'd appreciate it if you don't compare us."

Yuka went for another puff. "I apologize for the offense. I know Invel Yura no longer walks the path the Spirits had set for him. You two don't have similar natures, no. And I'm not comparing to the people you are now." Her stare drifted to the ceiling. "I'm not sure about your relationship to him. However, I do know…your relationship with him will continue."

Gary gritted his teeth. "I'll kill him."

Yuka dropped her stare back to Gary. His muscles were benched with tension rolling off him in waves. Frost puffed from his nose as those ceruleans went into a volatile ice blue, but his black hair remained. Winter swarmed the cabin with its touch. Yuka kept her eyes steady on Gary while Nuuva whined and curled her tails around her.

"He doesn't deserve anything he's had. Not his powers." Gary expelled frost from his mouth as his lips curled. "Not his life."

Layla's words floated back to him as she showed him Invel's impassive glare in the water. "And you will have choices in death."

He deserves it, Gary snarled. He kept me as his perfection. He tormented me for years. He deserves to die.

"You think you can kill me? What will that prove, Morningstar?" Invel's bellow stained Gary's memory. "Killing me will never erase the blood on your hands and the fact that I made you who you are!"

It's not true, Gary growled, but he did not know if he was convincing himself. He didn't make me who I am.

"My name is Invel Yura." Blurry glacial blues. "I am your family. I will father you properly." A blurred hand reached out as a blinding white surrounded them. "Come, Morningstar. You are my son now. And you will be perfect."

A swirl of winter. "You will stay away from him!" came bloodthirsty snarl. "You filthy, disgusting pigs! Don't you ever touch him! He is my perfect Morningstar! He's my son!" Deadly glacial blues. "And I will kill all of you if you ever touch him!"

Gary held his head in his hands with his breaths shaky and eyes wide. No. Don't think about it.

• — • — •

The Room was a stark white and chemically clean. But the blurred focus could see those glacial blues with white draped around him in a strange tunic. But color had bled into the room. Food. Meat. Actual meat that smelled like meat.

"Here."

A white tray of meat was pushed to the focus, grilled and rare.

"You did well today. When you do well, you'll earn rewards." Glacial blues flickered with approval. "You are becoming more and more perfect, Morningstar."

It felt strange. The Doctor never made him feel like this. All he felt was constant fear and sickening dread once the Doctor had broken every part of him to make him docile and tame. But to hear praise…

• — • — •

Gary shut his eyes as he tried to ignore the overlap of memories, but it was too late. Stop it.

• — • — •

"This is a bath. You're filthy."

Even the bathroom was a stark white with nothing that could be used as a weapon. A precaution against an experiment who did not know their place. But the bathtub had steam rising from it. Heat. He remembered heat.

"Get in."

He could not betray an order. He got in and watched as blood that was not his bled into his fresh bath. But the heat against his winter felt…soothing. Like a memory. Had he had a bath before? It felt familiar.

"I don't want blood on your skin. I expect better from you."

The water splashed for a moment before a soft cloth rubbed against his flesh. Like a doll, he did not move as the cloth wiped away the blood. But each stroke charmed something familiar. It was vague, but that repetitive feeling of being bathed reminded him of someone warm and gentle. His lashes lowered.

"But you did well today, Morningstar." Bare praise as the cloth gently wiped his face. Freezing fingers singed his jaw and forced the focus to connect with glacial blues. "You'll continue to grow stronger until you are perfect." It felt like something in that icy gaze melted. "I will raise you to be everything you should be. And I know you'll give me a perfect effort."

It was that feeling again. A stir that made him pay attention to this person who showed him the Truth of Winter. A stir that he remembered from a while ago. It was…someone who would say such words. The memories were blurry, but he remembered when a hand would ruffle his hair. And he could feel nothing more than prid—

The memories burned away as the intensities of summer swept through—

• — • — •

Gary broke free from his memories with a gasp like he was coming up for air. He could see ice had gathered on his hands and his legs, but the summer soothing him and singing to him melted it away with easy strokes. The panic, the guilt, the shame—their claws in him let go, and he tried to keep breathing.

Yuka looked at him with no judgment in her stare. "It's clear your relationship to Invel runs deeply in you, whether you wish for it or not," she softly murmured. "And I can say that your relationship with him will continue on."

"How do I stop it?" Gary looked at Yuka so lost and confused and desperate. "How can I stop it?"

"You don't." Fatal words. Unfortunate words. "You both are two unstoppable storms that have the power to destroy each other. However…" A lengthy puff of smoke that fumed before Gary. "Something tells me…"

Gary watched as the smoke clouded and showed one glacial blue and one cerulean gleam.

"…you both will experience some sort of calm in the storm that will destroy you…or him."

And the smoke vanished.

---

Sylvie had stars in her eyes. "This is perfect!"

Her suite looked like a spectacle with all her memorabilia from her fun phases she fixated on and abandoned. Her maids had come with sisterly affection as they watched Sylvie on her platform in the dress Ena had designed for her—a light ash blue renaissance ball gown with the occasional silver floral arrangement streaking the sheer skirt. And a cute and sleek bow nearing the front of the hip.

Ena looked at her creation in pride with her wristband pin cushion and her sewing kit on standby while Odette clasped her hands as she looked after her sister.

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

Savant Hall

Larkspur County

Fiore, Ishgar

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Sylvie squealed and asked her maids, "Can someone get my Com? I have to take a selfie of this!"

"Sylvie, remember, no pictures until the ball," Odette patiently reminded her sister.

Sylvie pouted. "But I look so cute!" She admired her dress with another flutter around. The Duke of Aronia loves this color, so I'm bound to catch his eye!"

"Of course, Sylvie." Odette laughed behind a hand as she and Ena shared a look of amusement. "But you are aware the Duke is older than you after all, right? He might be looking for a Duchess a bit closer to his age."

Sylvie gaped. "No way! He'd never! And I'll be seventeen this year!" She smiled, proud. "I'll be a full-grown lady and have my own debut! And the Duke will have to notice me then!" She turned to her maids for eager support right.

As her maids affectionately cheered her own, Odette chuckled more with Ena drifting over to her. "She'll have her heart set on him tonight," she supposed. "She's been excited about seeing him."

"I thought you were too," Ena teased.

A fair blush tainted Odette's cheeks. "Well… I can appreciate him and his work in potions," she guessed. "I've only seen him a few times at university and events, but I'm not as bold as Sylvie to speak to him. And Father's made it clear even the Duke isn't good enough for me."

Ena laughed. "He's just protective. You can't fault him in that. You're very beautiful, Lady Odette, from your looks to your smarts and everything in-between."

"Thank you, Ena," Odette warmly appreciated. "And thank you for our dresses. They look phenomenal. I'll be sure to let anyone who asks that you were the designer and give you a glowing recommendation."

"I appreciate it." Ena looked on as Sylvie gushed to her maids about how she envisioned her night at the reception ball would go once the Duke realized he loved her. The dresses are perfect and need no more primping. I'll give the maids thorough instruction about how to care for it before I finish up here. Dark chocolates saddened. It's strange. Silver would be doing this. I guess I've gotten used to him.

"I don't want you here. I don't…want you." Raw mayan blues teary and despondent. "So just leave, okay? Please just go."

An ache covered Ena's heart, an uncomfortable and unfamiliar feeling. I don't like this. He's mad at me. He doesn't want me. I know I wanted him to leave me alone before, but…

"How could you tell me that you're lacking and invisible and no one sees you!" Furious blues. "I see you!"

She clutched the material over her heart. I don't like this. I don't like…feeling like this. L and I rarely fought, but if we did, we knew what to do. I… I don't know what to do. I don't know what to say.

"Those people who use Anti-Ether kidnapped my brother for three years, and you want to tell me you can handle this when I had to listen to him scream in his sleep, begging to die?"

But it's…it's different, Ena told herself and wanted to tell Silver. I don't know how to reach him when he won't let me. He doesn't…want me. A hard pill to swallow. I can take care of myself. I always have. I just need to train more. It was my fault I hadn't taken Anti-Ether into consideration, but I will now. Why can't he see that?

"Ena?"

A blink and a name call pulled her out to see Odette looking at her in concern. She tailored a warm smile. "Sorry. Were you saying something, My Lady?"

"Come now. None of that." Odette patted a spot beside her on the sofa. "Please sit with me." She waited until Ena sat and could see how uncomfortable she was. "I noticed your attendant isn't with you."

"Right. H-He—I decided he would be better useful helping prepare for the reception ball and asked Nora to give him some duties to fulfill," Ena said diplomatically, though her mouth felt like sand at the lie. "And Nora offered to care for me, so I thought it was time to take him up on his offer."

"On the last day of your stay here?"

Ena rummaged for the words and ended up lamely putting together, "I'm sure this won't be the last time I'll see Nora. This is a perfect opportunity for me to speak with him more." There. That's not necessarily a lie.

But of course, Odette pressed, "I take it you're considering letting my brother court you then?"

Nothing Ena could say would help her.

Odette sighed and looked over at Sylvie and at how she was on a roll with all her fantasies of tonight. "You might've been too busy to notice it, but your attendant…Silver… He's much more attentive than our attendants."

Ena excused, "He's just overprotective. He's the same way with our mutual friend. It's just…part of his personality."

Inwardly, she sweated. That's a complete lie. He's a complete coward when it comes to Gale. She cringingly remembered how Silver would hide behind Luna when Gale came over and hope to tiptoe away when Gale would snap him by his collar, and Silver would comically cry for Luna to save him. Ugh. What is wrong with him? Where is his spine?

Odette smiled, not believing a word of Ena's fib. "I'm sure." She added casually, "I did find it funny how often he'd glare at Nora any time Nora stole your attention."

"Ah…" Ena's eye twitched. "What can I say? He's overprotective. We're, um… We're childhood friends, so it's natural he'd be distrusting of anyone around me. We're like family." Inwardly, she was gagging and needed to fan herself. Oh, I think I'm going to need to lay down after this.

Odette tittered. "And family looks the gentleman making you smile like he wants to kill him and mutters under his breath how not good enough this gentleman is for you?"

Storm clouds hailed over Ena. I'm going to kill him.

"I don't mean to get him into too much trouble," Odette assured in good humor. "I'm just making a point that he seems to care about you and is very loyal."

"Yes…" Ena's lashes lowered. "He is…very loyal…and perhaps a little too caring."

"What do you mean?"

Ena sighed. "I don't want to bore you—"

"Ena," Odette softly interrupted. "Please, we have another hour until Sylvie climbs down from the clouds. You're a guest, not a subordinate. And I consider you a friend as well. And as your friend, I insist you tell me what's wrong."

Ena lifted a weakly amused eyebrow, lips twitching. "You're more subtle than your father."

"If you think Father isn't subtle, you would have thought Mother could make supernovas," Odette chortled. She tapped Ena's arm. "Now. What's going on?"

Ena sighed again. Why did she always sigh when it came to Silver? "It was a petty argument. He got upset with me—wrongfully—and that's that. He'll cool down later." She hoped Odette would be satisfied, but she could see Luna's expression of that's not what happened with Odette and felt her stomach sour. She shifted, awkward. "It was a petty argument," she said in her defense. "And I was right."

Odette tilted her head. "How did the argument happen?"

"It was…" Ena shook her head. "He's just…worrying too much. Because of his past experiences, he's worried I can't handle myself."

"Are his past experiences similar to what he's comparing you to?"

"Well…" Ena wanted to growl. "I suppose there is one common variable." She quickly protested, "But that shouldn't be enough to compare the situations. His past was traumatic, and I am fully cognizant of it. But he can't split the past from the present. The situations are different." She further vented, "And he never had this sort of attitude before. I've gone on dangerous missions before, and he never bat an eye. What right does he have to get angry with me over danger? I've lived around danger and trained for it, and he has the nerve to get snippy with me when I refuse to play damsel in distress and shy away from it?"

She huffed. "Honestly. I didn't think he would get emotional over this. He's never had a problem with it before. What's changed? I refuse to remain idle, and he knows that. So why is he so up and arms about this? Why does he care about this so much?"

Five beats.

"Pfft."

Ena blinked over to Odette, who burst into chortles, surprising her. Huh?

Odette waved her hand as she tried to get her giggles under control. "I'm sorry. I'm not laughing at you, I promised." The smile on her face was far too big. "I think I understand it now, but I think you might not."

"Really?" Ena leaned forward, serious and eager to know. "What am I missing? Tell me."

"Well." Odette's eyes twinkled. "Have you ever considered the reason he's so passionate about you and your safety is that he cares for you?"

Ena did not bat an eyelash. "Of course he cares about me. That's his job."

"I mean care about you outside of his job," Odette mended.

Ena still did not understand. "I'm sure he does. We're friends."

"Ena." Odette maintained her patience. "I mean, did you ever consider that Silver is this insistent on your safety because he cares about you romantically?" I'm sure he does. Even Nora can tell. I could see Silver look at Ena like he was mesmerized. I'm sure she's realized—

"No," Ena rejected, blunt. "That's completely ridiculous. Neither one of us is attracted to each other."

"O-Oh…" Odette's smile turned twitchy. "I… I see." Oh, dear. I think I'm seeing more of the problem. "Well, he does care for you an awful lot, Ena. When you care about someone deeply, don't you find yourself acting irrational?"

Ena did not need to think about it. "No. I care for three people dearly, and I've never had to deal with this." I might've had to deal with a temper tantrum from L when I shoot her down about milkshakes, but she's easy to quiet down if I give her a stuffed animal.

Odette cleared her throat. "Think about it this way," she tried. "Some people when they care too much might act a little odd. Something about your situation touched him and reminded him of his own past. It's not that he thinks you're an incapable person. But it won't stop him from worrying about you and wanting you to be safe. Think of it as a compliment—a true testament to his care for you."

"Huh…" Ena thought about this. So…he's arguing with me…to express his care. How absurd. But he is an odd person.

A light bulb went off.

I see. I've read about this before from Mother's library, Ena realized. One of the protagonists runs hot and cold. She would argue with the male protagonist and pretend to not want his comfort so he would chase after her and comfort her. I see now. He's playing hard to get and wants me to chase after him to comfort him. And once I do, he won't be mad at me anymore.

The flames of determination burned into her eyes. Easy enough. If it's a chase he wants, if it means I can stop feeling this…disgusting…it's a chase he'll have.

Odette was startled when Ena abruptly got up.

"I know what I need to do," Ena declared. "By the time I'm done, he'll be back to normal." I learned how to shoot at a moving hare riding a horse backward. Chasing him down will be easy enough. And I'll smother him in comfort. And then… She could envision Silver with his dog ears and happy wagging tail. He'll go back to being an adorable puppy. It all makes sense.

Odette's eyes twitched as she smiled at the fiercely resolved Ena. Oh, my… That look in her eye makes me think I said the wrong thing…

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

— • — • — • —

And then…

— • — • — • —

• — • — • — • — • — • — • — • — •

Ena silently closed the door to her room. But those comically sharp predator eyes landed on Silver's closed door. If I could just track him down, I can get the drop on him. It's no different than hunting a finicky hare. He's doing a decent job shielding his magical presence from me. But I'll chase him down. And then…

"M-M-Mistress?" Fantasy-Silver came nervously hedging towards her with his dog ears and tail with a wild red on his face. A tray was in his hand with a panini and fresh tea. "I br-brought you tea. I, um…" He shifted as his face reddened further. "I hope you like the blend I made for you today, Mistress."

He'll go back to normal, and we can put all this behind us. It's perfect.

Silent footsteps crossed the suite with a hunter's gait. She rubbed her hands together with a demon's grin on her lips. Prepare yourself, Silver. Once I'm finished with you, you'll never be able to be mad at me again. She poised to grab the handle—

VRR-VRRRRRRRR-VRRRRRRR…

Ena nearly fell over. What the—!

VRR-VRRRRRRRR-VRRRRRRR…

Ena scowled all around, ready to snarl. How dares to—!

VRR-VRRRRRRRR-VRRRRRRR…

She blinked and felt the pocket in her dress vibrating. "Oh. That's me." She pulled out her Compact, and the caller surprised her. She answered it. "Mother?" She crept to her room and shut the doors. "Why are you calling?"

"I'm not allowed to call you now?" Erza amusedly replied.

Ena rolled her eyes. "I'm sorry. Hi, Mom. How are you?"

"Better now that I've gotten a hold of you," Erza answered. "I was worried when you didn't answer the Com the other night. Is everything okay?"

Guilt ate Ena up. Of course Mom was worried. I should've called her and now I'm making trouble again. She gripped her Compact with a feeble smile and assured, "Yeah, Mom. Everything is fine. It was just a lot of excitement the other day, but I'm doing great—"

"Ena."

She gave pause at the scolding in her mother's voice.

"I didn't raise you to be a liar."

She sighed. "Yes, Mother, I know." She pulled back the curtains to unlock the doors to her balcony. She had been gifted quite the lovely view of one of the courtyards with a low-cute hedge maze. A gazebo was in the middle of it—no, it looked to be part greenhouse and part-gazebo with flowers galore and quite the fountain inside. As she leaned against the railing and dismissed the gray sky, she looked around. This is nice…

"Ena." Erza's tone took a dotingly soft turn. "What's wrong, my little fairy?"

She hoped to dismiss it. "It's nothing, Mom, really. I shouldn't bother you—"

"You're my daughter, Ena, you could never bother me with your life," Erza insisted.

Ena looked down at the railing. I just…don't want to make any more trouble for you.

Mystogan's words came back to haunt her with his bit. "Just stay out of trouble. Mom doesn't need to be stressed any more than she is because of you."

"I want to know what's going on in your world, Ena," Erza persisted, soothing and sure. "I've always wanted to know, I…" A long breath. "When you came to me about Silver possibly being sick, it made me so happy you were talking to me about what was going on in your world," she confessed.

That perplexed Ena. "Why? That was hardly anything."

"To you, maybe not. But to me…I felt like you were letting me in."

Ena was not sure what to say to that except silence.

Erza sighingly continued: "You've been so independent—much more than me when I was your age. You're incredible and talented and smart. But I was so worried how much you kept your distance away from everyone who wanted to support you."

Ena's fingers went rigid. "Mom—"

"Sometimes, you really are your father's daughter."

Outside of slow-bearing offense, Ena was unsure what to feel. But her free hand dipped into the pocket with the white and black queens. "What do you mean like that?"

Another sigh. Maybe Ena got all her sighing over men from her mother. "Your father was a tortured man in our youth," Erza softly explained. "He felt…his burdens to bear were his alone. It was difficult for him to open up and let others in to support him and take that load off his shoulders. It's why he kept his distance from me for so long. He felt he'd be dragging me into his mess when I had much more important things to do—his words." She added meaningfully, "He didn't want to give anyone any trouble."

Dark chocolates widened.

"It took some time for him to realize none of us were going anywhere," Erza went on. "It never mattered what was happening in our lives. We always had time for each other, regardless. It was hard for him to see it that way. He was so focused on his wrongdoings that he couldn't forgive himself enough to see he had us to help him. He was afraid."

Ena brought out her chess pieces with a pit in her stomach, and her heart clenched. "I'm not afraid."

"I'm not saying you are," Erza placated. "But you remind me so much of your father. You always want to go it alone." She tittered. "Although, I don't think you'll make up having a fiancé to keep people away from you."

Ena balked. "Did Dad do that?"

"Aye. He did." The memories were an amused sort of nostalgic. "I never let it go with him and constantly teased him about it. He admitted he made it up on the spot since he was a bit of a coward when it came to him and me."

"That's the stupidest thing I have ever heard," Ena said bluntly. "Who makes up a fiancé just to keep someone at bay? Maybe I'm like Dad, but I'm not going to be that foolish."

Erza chuckled and jested, "You never know." The chuckles faded with an exhale. "So, what's wrong, Ena? And no lying, please. I didn't raise a liar and mother knows when their baby's lying."

"Yes, Mother," Ena sighed. "It's just…" She blew out her cheeks. "Well, it's…"

"I'm hedging my bets Silver is the cause behind this."

"Because he is," Ena growled darkly. "He's acting out of line."

"Oh? Is he now?"

"Yes!" Ena mutinously exclaimed. "He is!"

"And why do you think that?"

"Because it's the truth!" Ena declared. "We had some issues the other day, okay? And it…triggered Silver to remember something traumatic. I'm not disavowing that trauma, but he's letting it blind him from seeing I can handle myself just fine. I just need to train and prepare more. But he's getting emotionally involved with this, and every time I try to explain it to him, he just gets more upset with me."

"And where is Silver now?"

"He's not—!" Ena's voice broke and the anger fueling her deflated. "He's not…here. I thought…" She swallowed. "He thought it would be best to be elsewhere. He…doesn't want to be around me. He doesn't…want me." Another pierce to her heart. But that stubborn pride came up as a defense. "And that's fine. If he's going to snap at me without hearing me out, I don't want him around me either. In fact, I don't need—!"

The rest of her sentence could not make it past her lips.

Weepy mayan blues. "Don't touch me. I don't want you here."

It was that peculiar feeling. But she had a name for it now. Rejection. It made her stubborn walls crack as she remembered Silver's words, but it blended with Mystogan's snap.

"We don't want you here."

Her lashes fell as she thumbed her queen chess pieces. "I don't understand," she told her mother in truth. "I-I don't… I…don't know what to do." That disturbed her more than she realized. This uncertain. This waiting game. His anger towards her.

"What do you want to happen, Ena?" her mother asked. "In your mind, what's the best-case scenario that could happen? What do you want?"

What did she want?

"Mistress?" A sunny smile. "I need you too."

Dark chocolate stung, but that was as far as she let herself take it. "I just…want him to smile again," she confessed, tone despondent. "He's angry with me. I just…want it to stop."

"You've both fought before," Erza pointed out.

Ena could not help it when her own fury overtook, and she snapped, "It's different! Those were petty fights, Mother, and they meant nothing! He went back to annoying me even after I yelled at him. He can't even—!" Her tone wavered. "He can't even look at me. He doesn't want me to touch him or comfort him, and I'm saying everything wrong, and I…!" She clenched the chess pieces. "And I… I don't know what to do. He doesn't want me near him."

"We don't want you here." Mystogan's words from her dream still stung.

She closed her eyes and took a shaky breath. "Maybe that's for the best."

"Ena," Erza said sharply, "Silver is not Mystogan."

Ena tensed.

"I know that's what you're thinking," Erza continued. "But Silver is not Mystogan. Mystogan's behavior towards you was outrageous and inexcusable. And that's my fault."

"You can't force him to be around me," Ena said, bitter.

"No, but he shouldn't be putting ideas into your head that you aren't wanted, and you deserve to be ignored," Erza passionately argued. "Because you don't. You don't deserve that sort of treatment. Mystogan had no right to do that to you, to punish you for things you never did."

"Is that what Silver's doing?" Ena asked her mother. "Punishing me for making him angry?"

"Oh, Ena…" A lengthy sigh. "My little fairy… I know it's not easy to be in this position. Your father and I had our fair share of arguments too. But I don't think he's punishing you. I think he needs time to himself. You upset him. It's natural he wants to spend time away from you. Because right now, this isn't about you. This is about him remembering something unpleasant and trying to handle it.

"I'm sure he feels a myriad of emotions. He's remembering a time that brought him pain. He's angry at you because he might think you're dismissing that pain, even if you think otherwise. And if an issue happened that triggered this, I'm sure he's linking you to that pain and fearing for the worst. You might think you can handle whatever issue this is, but this isn't about you right now. This is about Silver and what he feels."

"What do I do?"

"Did you listen to him?"

"Of course I did." Ena scowled at the insinuation. "I did listen, but he's the one who got angry and left. He wanted out. He didn't want me to comfort him."

"And did you respect his wishes?"

"Well, I…" Ena's mouth worked. "I…"

"Ena…"

"I was worried," Ena said in her defense. "I thought we needed to talk. And it's not like he leaves me alone when I'm upset either—"

"Ena, this isn't about you or your needs right now," Erza firmly reminded. "This is about Silver and what he needs. I'm sure you didn't like it when he left the conversation upset. I'm sure you wanted to talk. But you have to look at this from Silver's point of you. He's triggered. He's upset. And you pushed him when he was still processing. You might have appreciated him chasing after you when you were upset, but can you say that's what he wants?"

Ena remembered those raw blues and whispered, shamefaced, "No."

"No," Erza agreed. "I know you're used to charging into things headfirst. But think of Silver as you do with Luna. When she's upset, you put her needs above yours. Silver is the same. If you truly did upset him, then it doesn't matter what you want from him. You need to go at Silver's pace until he's comfortable enough to hear your apology."

"'Apology'? Mother—"

"Yes. An apology," Erza sternly emphasized. "He deserves one for you pressing him when he wasn't emotionally ready. And he also deserves one for you invalidating his pain."

"You weren't even there," Ena said lamely. "I told you I didn't—"

"You might have felt you didn't, but Silver might have perceived your words differently," Erza overruled. "His needs, his point of view, Ena, not yours. Just like with Luna."

"This is different."

"How?"

"Because he's different," Ena supposed. "I've known L for what feels like my entire life. I barely know Silver—"

"I think you know him more than you think," Erza murmured. "I think you know what you said might not have been tactful. You got your pride from me. That's how I know." She added softly, "And I think you're afraid, Ena."

Ena huffed. "Of what?"

"You're afraid of the unknown. Silver's an unknown. His feelings towards you and if he'll forgive you and want to speak to you are unknown. He's unfamiliar to you. And you're afraid because you don't know what will come next."

Ena scoffed. "I've battled monsters, Mother. I'm not afraid of the unknown. I've never backed down from a challenge."

"But Silver isn't a challenge, is he?" Erza threw back. "You care about him, Ena. He's not an enemy. You can't use your words or your swords on him. You have to use your heart with him—and your heart is what scares you the most when it has to go through the unknown."

Ena stood in silence, reeling in her mother's words. I'm afraid…of my heart? Maybe before she would laugh off her mother's accusations or call bunk. But she closed her fingers around her queen chess pieces and nuzzled her fist over her heart. Is that why…it's been hurting like this?

Bright mayan blues. "Mistress!"

Her jaw went taut.

Erza's soothing voice came over the line. "I know it's scary. I know, my little fairy, that it's terrifying. You've had your heart broken so many times. By your father, by Mystogan…by me."

"You didn't—"

"I did. I know I did, Ena. I'm not blind to how sad you are." A note of sorrow hit Erza's tone. "I know I've broken your heart too. And I know you don't assign blame to me for all these years, but I am to blame. You don't deserve to get your heart broken by your family. But you were brave to trust Luna with your heart, and she hasn't broken it. And I know Silver won't break it either."

Her eyes heated even more and threatened with tears when they clouded over, but she refused to give her body that satisfaction. But she could let herself live in her secret truth as she choked, "I'm scared, Mommy."

"I know, baby."

"What if he doesn't want to speak to me?" The mere thought of going to indifference and ignorance made Ena feel sick with worry. "What if I say something wrong again?"

"Give him time, but not too much time," Erza counseled. "He deserves his space. Too much of it will fill his head with unfair thoughts, but I have a strong feeling he'll come to you."

"How are you sure?" Ena pressed.

"Because just as you're like your father, he's like his mother," Erza compared cryptically. "He'll come to you when he's ready, Ena. Let him have his space." Two beats. "Arguments happen, Ena. What Mystogan did shouldn't have happened. What's important right now is that you think of Silver's needs and you're there for him when he wants to talk. And that you apologize for putting your wants above his. Even if you got your lack of apology from me," she quipped.

Ena wetly laughed. "I guess I did. I guess it's why it feels terrifying to do it. I've never…had to apologize before. I don't think I like it."

Erza chortled. "I don't either. It's why I rarely do it." They shared a chuckle. "But sometimes, a sincere apology is necessary towards the people we hurt."

"I didn't mean to hurt him," Ena whispered.

"I know, my little fairy. And with your apology, I'm sure Silver will see that." Three beats. "That said, I hope you'll refrain from doing, oh, what's the phrase… Kiss and make-up?"

Ena burst into laughter. "Mother!" She shook her head. "No, I don't think we'll be doing anything like that. No, he…" A soft little smile tampered with her lips as she looked into the courtyard and could see Atticus in the greenhouse. "He loves someone dearly. And I hope for his sake she loves him back. He might have his faults, but he's a sweet person."

"You've always been a sweet mistress." A sheepish smile. "I'm sorry I was too sour to notice it."

No. I'm the one who is sour, Ena thought.

"Has he told you about this young lady?"

"A fair bit, yes." Ena frowned when she saw Father Johannes striding into the courtyard alone. What is he doing here? "He's vague in any description, but he's made it clear he's stupidly in love with her."

"And did he supply you with a name?"

"No…" Ena's brow knitted as Father Johannes received bypass from the guards to enter the greenhouse. Is Atticus working with the Holy Eye? But he seemed to have disdain for Irina trying her hand…

"You never know. He might be like your father and made up a fake lady interest."

Ena absently hummed as she tried to figure out what was happening within the greenhouse. I can't get a clear visual. Perhaps if I Requip into my ninja attire…

"Or maybe he's leading you astray and the lady he's smitten with is you."

"Ha!" Ena threw back her head and laughed deeply. "That's impossible!"

"Is it?"

"Of course. How absurd. Silver could never love me." Ena's laughter faded for a pitiful smile. "I'm not exactly the sort of person people would have feelings for, Mother," she tried to joke.

Quiet.

"I hate that you feel that way."

Ena felt guilty hearing the sadness in her mother's voice. "It was a joke," she tried to explain. "I didn't mean anything by it. It was just a tasteless joke, I promise. Of course I'm lovable. Silver would be a fool not to love me. I could build him a comfortable life. He'd never have to work again."

"I'm sure he'd be over the moon to be your house husband."

Ena took her mother's thoughtful tone for amusement. "Right. I'm sure." She sighed. "But that would never happen. While I appreciate Silver…no. No, I… I'm better off alone."

More quiet.

Ena feared she made her mother upset and opened her mouth—

"I will never press you to be with someone," Erza promised her. "You deserve to live your life the way you want it. I will never ask you to get married or to have grandchildren. I can hope Aine and Lance get married, but that's their decision. And I respect whatever decision about your future you make. But I want it to be your decision, Ena. Never let how someone else treated you dictate your future."

Ena sighed again. Oh, great, now she sighed around her mother too. "I know, Mom."

"And that's also an order I give you as your Guild Master."

Ena smiled. "Yes, ma'am. Yes, Master."

"Good." You could hear Erza's matching smile. "Other than your argument, have you enjoyed Savant Hall? Have you…learned anything?"

Ena's smile faded for a frown. "I think we need to talk when I come home."

"I think so as well," agreed Erza. "Stay vigilant, my little fairy. I love you."

Ena softened. "I love you too, Mom. Bye." She ended the call and slipped her Compact back into her pocket and whooshed hair from her mouth. Mom always knows what to say even when I say nothing. She looked at the two queen pieces. It's been a long stay here. As rude as it sounds, I can't wait to leave here and…

Bright mayan blues.

I can't wait…for him to speak to me again. Ena pocketed the chess pieces, but movement made her guard go up. She saw Father Johannes stepped out of the greenhouse with his jaw locked. He looked like he was listening to something before he strode away. He looks angry. Then… Atticus isn't working with the Holy Eye. Or he is and he's a vigilante. But something tells me Atticus isn't.

She reached down to pull out the rose he had gifted her that had shriveled up and died. What's his motive? she wanted to know. Who exactly is he?

And as she fell deep into her thoughts and theories, a rumble of thunder littered the sky.

---

— • — • — • —

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

— • — • — • —

---

Voices of Characters in Order of Appearance

— • — • — • —

Atticus Gosling – Steve Cannon

Erica Ryans – Felecia Angelle

Silver Fullbuster – Yuri Lowenthal

Ena Fernandes – Xanthe Huynh

Nora Gosling II – Brrad Swaile

Gary Fullbuster (child) –

Juvia Fullbuster – Brina Palencia

Gray Fullbuster – Newton Pittman

Mystogan (Child) –

Irina Gosling – Pamela Marreck

Sylvie Gosling – Leah Clark

Odette Gosling – Tia Ballard

Nashi Dragneel – Lauren Landa

Býleistr – Josh Tomar

Gale Redfox – Greg Cipes

Gajeel Redfox – David Wald

Panther Lily – Rick Keeling

Galileo Redfox – Josh Grelle

Thirteen – Matthew Mercer

Luna Dragneel – Brynn Apprill

Nice Geonard – Jad Saxton

Dardanius "Denver" Gosling – R. Bruce Elliot

Scarlet Warlock – Robert McCollum

Dante Princeton-O'Neill – Adrian Petriw

Carlisle Justino – Eric Scott Kimerer

Aphtan Ángel – Adam Gibbs

Asuna Freeman – Marieve Herrington

Oswald Vanderbelt – Kyle McCarthy

Teacher / Giáo viên – Julie Mayfield

Gary Fullbuster – Griffin Burns

Yuka –

Layla Heartfilia (voice only) – Wendee Lee

Invel Yura – Clay Wheeler

Erza Fernandes – Colleen Clinkenbeard

• — • — •

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⌟

---

•

•

•

•

— • — • — • —

Next time, on Fairy Adventure

•

Episode 107

•

ENTER THE RECEPTION BALL

— • — • — • —

•

•

•

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MOTHER KNOWS BEST

---

Get ready to see how Gajeel's years after he came out of the Eclipse Gate, before and during his recruitment to Phantom Lord, his meeting and relationship with Juvia, and the reason the Magic Council summoned him for judgment affect his present and how Thirteen, Coeus, Julia, and their mysterious tech guru ally play a hand in it in a future (emphasis on "future") arc: the Shamballa Arc.

Prepare to hate me. The arc is like Psycho-Pass and Berserk and the whole "sins of the father become the sins of the son".

You're welcome.

Also, could you imagine Gale, Silver, and Julia going on a mission together and Silver is stuck between his bossy older sister and his scary cousin? Because I can. You'll see how Silver poorly handles Gale and Julia's ragging, the softer side of their family relationships, and Silver's burning question about Julia.

In my mind, there will come a Honey and Justin Drag Race party where Gary does a lip-synch battle as gender-bent Elsa with his attire changing (thanks to Ena) and he sings "Let It Go" in heels and with snow and ice and everything.

And finally…

I have such fun filler episodes for the pairings, but I finally settled on Ena and Silver's filler:

「 Is it Wrong to Pine After the Villainess? 」

Hoping to get Ena a gift for their XXX-day anniversary of working together (he hasn't been counting, of course), Silver takes a high-paying B-ranked job to help a romance author get inspired for their novel. But when Silver's subtle feedback doesn't go well, the author transmigrates him into their novel as punishment for the "plot holes" and his criticism on the romance. Now, he's stuck here as a low-ranked Holy Knight for the "good side" kingdom and forced to go through the novel to "fix it" and—oh, look, Lulu is the gentle-souled protagonist with an incredible and, huh, Gale's here as her boorish knight and…wait a second. All these people look awfully familiar and—

Oh god.

And Ena is the villainess?!

With Silver knowing Ena will be beheaded as an act of revenge for her crimes, Silver has to sneak into her empire in the hopes to get closer to her and change her gruesome fate. And between her death threats and attitude and a series of unfortunate events, he isn't sure he's going to keep her alive, let alone himself.

This couple was unexpected. Silver was supposed to end up with Paige in the first two and half drafts of Fairy Adventure—I kid you not. But somehow the romantic in Silver was ready for an enemies-to-lovers trope with an oblivious and dominating love interest he loved to hate and now just…loves.

I love it when the characters surprise me.

Get ready for a throwback for my SilvEna shippers in this next episode. My heart goes out to them. So much more angst in their future, but it can wait for now.

End of speech.