Shattered Songs of Faith

by Sakura108645

Now, one does not expect to wake up in another body when they die. She did not expect to come to such a world that she had only read and played through technology. What's more, that she wakes up as Female Byleth during her childhood days. "Come and see the world in different ways from the River of Time before it all shatters away!" (SI OC) (AU)

96. Chapter 95:The Sands: Part 1: Farewell

— Dream: LA, California: 2050 : Cemetery: Theresa 50 years old —-

She's been alive for so long. The only one left in her friend group. She stood in front of six graves, each one engraved with the name of her friends. One had the name engraved of a young boy who was the sibling of one of her friends. Theresa let out a deep breath as she finished placing flowers on each grave. She just stood there, taking small yet deep breaths each time as she calmed her heart and cleared her mind. She could hear the rustling of the leaves due to the late fall. The caws of crows and chirps nearby due to the seeds she threw out on the grass for them

Theresa wore a black double-breasted coat with black jeans and black knee-high boots. Her once-dyed red hair was back to its original color, a light brown but with some gray hairs. Her hair was tied in a ponytail and her bangs were loose, she wore sunglasses. The scent of water and she could see some gray clouds, lowering her glasses a bit, she frowned.

"Looks like it's going to rain soon." Theresa sighed and looked back at the graves, "It's been...difficult. Life hasn't been kind to me and I haven't been kind either." She said as she crossed her arms.

"But I know you all would have said it me to not give up. I didn't. I kept going. I even now run my own company." Theresa smiled sadly, "It's a nice one. I have my studio to work peacefully now." She said, "I've...done a lot of things I'm not proud of. Working with the police force and being a layer didn't help." She sighed.

"But...it wasn't so bad. Some moments were unforgettable and precious. Even made new friends that I can count on and trust. By the way Arisa, Christian has been doing good. Founded his own tech company and even became a professor like you. The only difference is he teaches politics as a professor." Theresa chuckled softly, "It's getting late now. I'll see you guys next time." And waved leaving the place.

The cemetery was one of the few places she would visit often. Having lived for a long time does that to someone. Still, as she continued to walk and soon went to her car, she paused. Her hand was just an inch away from it but now, she swore she saw something from the corner of her eyes. No, someone. She turned and narrowed her eyes, taking off her sunglasses as she spotted the individual hiding by the gates of the much older cemetery.

"Hey!" She called out, "Do you need something?" She said but all they did was peek their head a bit, from the hood, a lock of curly blue hair stuck out, "Hey!" She called out again and they left.

"Kids, I swear." Theresa huffed and kept looking back at her car and then the gates then back. "Of fuck it." She said and opened her door, grabbed her gun, and put it on her belt, along with her brass knuckles, "Here goes nothing."

She let out a heavy sigh and strolled over to the old cemetery gate. The closer she got, she could feel the cold wind and some of the gray clouds were just barely starting to cover the sun. She let out a frustrated sigh.

"This how horror movies start." She grumbled and continued forward.

The graveyard seemed abandoned. Some of the gravestones were covered in moss or were broken. Multiple trees around as well as some angel statues. It felt like they were watching her every move as she made her way through the graveyard till she arrived at an old water fountain. There, stood the hooded figure.

"Hey." Theresa called out to them and they remained with their back turned, "Hey, I'm talking to you!"

"Interesting world I must say." The voice of a woman, their voice sounded deep, fruity, and velvety, "So while you slept, you relived your past like in your dreams. You've been through a lot." The woman said and Theresa narrowed her eyes.

"Look, I don't know who you are but you got my attention. What do you want?" Theresa said and the woman turned to her, removing her hood.

Before Theresa stood a woman with peach skin, gradient red-blue eyes, messy tail-bone length aquamarine colored hair and she wore a black cloak. Theresa was thrown off by her appearance but...she had never seen the woman before in her life but she felt...

"Do I...know you? Have we met?" Theresa said and the woman let out a heavy sigh.

"I should have known you would lose your memory of your second life. Well," the woman cracked her neck and raised her hand then cracked her fingers, "time for you to wake up."

"Oh, so now you're going to fight Huh?" Theresa smirked as a bead of sweat ran down her cheek, "Well," she quickly took out her gun, "put your hands up n—"

The woman was suddenly in front of her. Theresa blinked and that was all the woman needed. The woman raised her hand and slammed it on her face, then grabbed her head.

"Sorry, but you need to wake up." And blue light exploded around them.

Theresa unleashed an ear-piercing agonizing scream as the woman made sure her power poured into her. Images flashed through the woman's eyes as she screamed in pain but the other one was not stopping. They kept pouring and pouring as the world around them played those memories and Theresa's age started to reverse. Her gray hairs turned into healthy shades of brown, and the rest of her hair turn to bright crimson once again. The wrinkles on her face disappeared and she now had healthy, glowing, youthful skin.

With a sound of a Clink! The woman dropped Theresa, who twitched and gasped for air as drool dribbled down her lips. She coughed, and coughed, gasping for air as she angrily looked at the woman.

"W-What did you do to me?" Theresa said and another sharp pain went through her head and then the memories all made sense.

The burning pain...was nothing compared to what she felt when Cornelia would beat her. The pain she felt was nothing to the hardships she had gone through. The pain...was nothing. Theresa suddenly gritted her teeth as her hands balled into fists as she struggled to stand up.

"Cirina..." She managed to croak and Cirina smiled as she looked at her.

"Good morning, sleepy head. Did you have a nice dream?" Cirina said as Theresa wiped her lips.

"There's nothing good about reliving my entire past life through a dream!" Theresa roared, "Before I only remembered fragments and now I REMEMBER EVERYTHING!" the woman yelled as she turned away, her eyes watering, "I remember everything..." she sobbed and looked at her.

"No, I wasn't the one that put you through it." Cirina said and Theresa looked at her with doubt, "I'm serious. I didn't do it. Anacharis used dark magic when she killed you and the others. It must have been what triggered you to fully awaken your memories because of the trauma you suffered." Cirina said and Theresa kept passing back and forth.

"Oh, so I'm a dead woman! Great! Just great!" Theresa said as she threw her hand up in the air, the tears just kept falling, "And this darkness we are in is the afterlife! Arisa I know will be alive because of plot armor but Amir and I are dead!" She said and Cirina pinched the bridge of her nose.

"Amir is alive." Cirina said and Theresa froze, slowly turning to look at the woman, "I don't lie. Amir is alive. Thank Sothis and Arisa. You're alive as well. And like Arisa, you and Amir have been asleep for a long time." She said and Theresa couldn't believe what she was hearing.

"T-That's impossible. Only Arisa should be alive. S-she's Byleth! That's how the story was written!" Theresa said and now Cirina was getting angry.

"Oh, so you're saying that everything you suffered, everything you went through in Fodlan, was all planned out by some authors?! Are you saying everything you went through is a lie?! That those you have created bonds with are fakes?!" Cirina roared and Theresa reeled back.

"N-No...that's not what I am saying...I-I..." Theresa said and Cirina let out a heavy sigh, "It's just...fate..."

"Oh please!" Now Cirina was the one that threw her arms up, "You're letting fate dictate your life now?! Please! You, Amir, and Arisa have already broken so many laws!" She said and walked up to the woman, "Listen here, you bitch." Theresa looked extremely offended, "I didn't give up my existence just for you to whine about fate! And just so you know, you don't have to suffer the consequences of my actions anymore when you wake up." She said and Theresa looked at shocked.

"Cirina...I...I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you. It's just..." Theresa smiled bitterly, "I'm sure you can tell I'm afraid..." Cirina's sighed, "Everything will be different when I wake up. I'm pretty sure a lot of conflicted feelings will be exchanged. It's 1185 after all." She sighed and Cirina giggled.

"What's so funny?" Theresa said and Cirina smirked.

"Oh, Alexandra, you have a lot to learn." She said as Theresa shivered, it was going to a while to get used to her other name thanks to her old memories returning.

"And I meant what I said." Cirina said, "I will no longer be with you." Now Theresa was looking at her shocked, "To save your life, you and I had to become one. Meaning...I can't be with you anymore." She smiled sadly and Theresa looked at her, heartbroken.

"Y-you're leaving?" Theresa's lips quivered, "I-I...just when we were finally coming to a mutual understanding." She sobbed and Cirina hugged her, "I've grown so used to you...I-I don't know what I will do without you."

"You'll do fine." Cirina smiled sadly, "From now on, my anger, rage, and tears will no longer affect anyone who is born with my crest." She said as the world around them began to glow a faint blue.

Like glittering stars and butterflies, Cirina began to become translucent as she intertwined her hands with Theresa.

"I have unbounded my soul from The Crest of Aubin." Cirina said and Theresa cried, "You, Rensen, and those of my remaining bloodline are free. I've lived long enough. It's time I rest..." she said as she looked up to the sky, seeing stars.

"The truth of why I was betrayed, is starting to be unraveled. You will learn the truth of it at the end of your journey." She said, "The world will be different when you wake up. You will have to relearn to control your magic and power since you and I have become one. One step at a time..." she whispered and closed her eyes as she looked back at Theresa.

"Don't cry. This is a happy time. You're finally free." Cirina grinned as Theresa shook her head.

"Still! I..." Cirina gently placed her forehead and she closed her eyes and opened them, both looking at each other.

"Your Will is my will. And my will is yours. I won't be gone. I'll now be a part of you. As long as you remember me, it's proof that I existed." Cirina said as blue dust started to surround them.

"Say, can we sing one more time?" Cirina said and Theresa nodded.

Back to the time

When I used to feel your hand in mine

Tiniest tenderness

Might it melt the ice into tears

Cirina closed her eyes as they began singing together. Magic swirled around them and began to enter Theresa's body.

Far from the world

That still makes both of my eyes blurred

Not a word could I say to wake up a dreamer

Call out my name

When you see the tide turn me away

Her crimson hair turned to a mixture of gradient blue and grew and grew. Her eyes turned gradients blue-red as Cirina started to fade away. She smiled bitterly as Cirina nodded, letting go of her hands. It was time.

Long ago buried heart

Right away torn apart

So it hurts how it lasts

Till I draw one more last final breath

Where to go when to come

Across a land bare and dark

May it be one for all

Burning the horizon out into none

"Live," Cirina whispered and faded away as Theresa nodded, looking up to the stars.

"Goodbye, my friend."

- End of Dream -

CRASH!

"Rensen?!" Hilda ran to the blacksmith as he suddenly dropped the hammer he was holding.

The man was shaking and trembling as tears fell from his eyes. The same situation was happening to Marianne as she was in a meeting with Claude. In Abyss, Yuri was suddenly suffering the same. It felt like some sort of connection was suddenly cut, as if they had just lost someone important.

"Marianne, what's wrong?!" Lorenz said since he had caught her.

Flayn and Seteth were also present and were shocked by this sudden. Especially because Marianne had just reported that Alexandra was gone along with Cirina's heart. But...

"My children..."

Cirina's voice whispered in Yuri's, Rensen's, and Marianne's minds.

"For many years, you all suffered because of my rage and anger. I now understand I was projecting my fate onto you all. I didn't want any of you to suffer as I did. From now on, you no longer will. My soul, my tears, and my will no longer be bounded to your bloodline or crest. Live free of my sins. Live freely and be bounded no longer. You are not a curse. You deserve to be happy. Live your life. Take your time. So long my children of ice and snow...be free."

"Ulp...Aaahhhhh!" Marianne started sobbing and crying loudly as she hugged Lorenz tightly, crying into his chest.

"Rensen, what's wrong?" Hilda said as the man cried, yet he covered his eyes as he looked at her.

"I...Apologize...It seems...no, it feels like I just lost someone important right now. Like a connection was cut. I...But I understand..." he said as Hilda handed him a napkin.

"Yuri-bird, what's happened?" Hapi said as he was handed a napkin.

"I...I don't know." The man sniffed, "I...just...I honestly don't understand." He said.

"I do..." Crescent said as they looked at him, the man had a sad smile.

"Cirina...has finally passed on. She...unbounded her soul from The Creat of Aubin. Meaning, you're free." He explained but Yuri was confused.

"But...I don't come from House Aubin." He said and Crescent hummed.

"True. But the crest you have originated from Cirina's father. And Cirina had a close relationship with her parents. Though you did not suffer what those of House Aubin did, you still had some issues. The first is your crest would be out of control if you were emotionally unstable, am I right?" He said and Yuri looked away, "I thought so."

"Cirina has passed on..." Marianne whispered as Judith brought her a cup of tea, "Cirina is no longer in this world. She...has unbounded her soul from The Crest of Aubin." She whimpered.

"Brother..." Flayn turned to Seteth, her lip quivering.

"Rensen is most likely in the same state as Marianne." Edward said, "That...also means all those of The Aubin Bloodline will no longer show hostility to those with The Crest of The Saints and Elites. They are...free." He said as Marianne nodded.

"Claude!"

Leonie suddenly burst through the door, spooked.

"FALCO IS GONE!"

— ? —

"Hmm..."

The scent of pinewood and the sound of a cracking fire were the first things she heard and smelled as she started to stir. She slowly began to open her eyes and sunlight was the first thing in her sight. It didn't burn, she was thankful for that. Instead, she was struggling for her eyesight to adjust to the light as well as noticing the velvety and silk-like feeling around her body. She also felt was on something soft and warm, gentle to the touch. And something tickled her nose.

"Achoo!" She sneezed as she carefully sat up, and rubbed her eyes.

She blinked and blinked again till finally her eyesight fully adjusted. Theresa looked around and blinked multiple times to make sure she wasn't seeing things. The room she was in was similar to a cottage. Wooden walls, a simple open-air window with a dark green bedsheet as a curtain. The scent of pine needle was strong and there were at least a table and shelf, they were empty.

"Where...am I?" Theresa whispered as she kept looking around and she finally spotted a mirror that was in front of the bed, "What in tarnation?" She said as she picked up the locks of her hair.

They were an aquamarine blue that turned into a gradient red. Her eyes were still the same, gradient blue-red.

"Why I am...? Ugh!" She felt a sting in her head and took deep breaths, "Cirina..." she whispered as her lip began quivering as she raised her hands, seeing the skin of the tip of her fingers to her elbow had turned a deep shade of blue, "You... meant it when you said you became one with me to save my life..." she whimpered and buried her face in her hands.

It felt like she lost someone. That connection was gone. Cirina had been with her since the day she awakened the power of The Crest of Aubin. Their first meeting was horrible, their relationship as friends at first started toxic. Over the years the two grew and even came to a mutual understanding. They overcame their faults and mistakes, accepting them as well as learning to coexist with each other. They were finally starting to become closer and it all came to an end on the day Anacharis killed her and the others. Theresa sniffled and then gasped when she heard footsteps near the door. It opened and in came an older woman with curly black shoulder-length hair with some gray, wearing a cream-colored blouse and long skirt.

"Oh!" The older woman gasped, "You're awake! Thank goodness! When Balthus brought you in, I thought you were injured seeing all the scars on your body!" The woman said and walked up to her, "I took it upon myself to dress you."

Theresa blinked and finally looked down at herself. She was wearing a brown nightgown. The style she recognized was similar to what the noblewoman of Fodlan wore but the clothing the older woman wore looked more common, a bit tribal.

"Excuse me?" Theresa spoke softly as the woman put some clothing on the table, "Where am I?" She asked.

"Um...Well...should I answer this?" The woman muttered to herself, "My name is Nura. I believe you know my son, Balthus?" Nura said and Theresa blinked multiple times.

"Balthus...Yes, I know him. He is a friend." Theresa said and the woman let out a sigh of relief.

"Oh thank goodness." Nura said, "You are in Thana Village, in Kupala. My son brought you here after he found you in The Frost Forest." She went to sit on the side of her bed, "Someone is waiting to speak to you. Is it alright if I braid your hair?" She asked politely.

"Um...alright." Theresa said and turned so her back would face Nura, "My name is..." she was struggling to say her Fodlan name, "A-A...Ale—Theresa. My name is Theresa." She said.

"Theresa...I have never heard of such a name. It sounds very foreign." Nura said as she gently braided the woman's hair, "It's so long!"

"It is..."

[—-]

By some miracle, Theresa could walk and move normally. She learned that Nura was Balthus's mother. Theresa remembered she was mentioned in Three Hopes and Three Houses in Balthus's paralogues and supports. As well as her story, but her identity was never shown in the game as well as her name. It was interesting hearing she had to wake up in Kupala and that Balthus was the one that brought her. Which...really confused her. Theresa expected to wake up in a river or near some abandoned building like in the game. And with the dream she had of Cirina's final moments, she said Amir was alive. That she and Amir were put into a deep sleep like Arisa to heal.

"Um, Miss Nura? Thank you for helping me dress. I apologize for the trouble." Theresa said as Miss Nura shook her head.

"Oh, it's no trouble at all." The woman smiled as Theresa turned back to the mirror.

She was dressed in a loose gray shirt, and black baggy pants and her "Sothis hair length" hair was tied in a braid, with her wispy bangs lose. But also, noticed that she was wearing the necklace relic.

"You're of House Aubin, aren't you?" Miss Nura asked and Theresa smiled sadly as she turned to her.

"I...used to be." The woman looked at her confused, "House Aubin no longer exists. My...god-father and I are the last ones." She said as Miss Nura nodded.

"I understand." The old woman said, "What will you do now?"

"Well, I'm hoping for an explanation of why I am here. And, you said someone wished to speak with me?" She said and Nura nodded but she also seemed hesitant.

"Come, I will take you to the Elder's home."

[—]

The village of Thana was just like the normal villages back in Fodlan. Except she was seeing more of a mixture of tribes. The people of Kupala wore loose clothing and some armor. But what threw her off was seeing some Almyran soldiers. Many of them were either talking to the people or a few of them were even training with the men. She spotted a few female warriors playing with the children. A few of the villagers noticed them and began whispering among each other. Even some children pointed at her. Theresa was nervous as they arrived at the house of the village elder. But, she could hear laughing.

Miss Nura knocked and they heard a "Come in." Inside the Village elders, home reminded Theresa of Elder Bara's house. Tables filled with scrolls instead of books. Shelves lined with bottles of all kinds. Instead of wholly bugs, there were a bunch of foxes, and ferrets and the woman jumped at the sight of a honey badger that just snorted at her as it continued to eat honeycomb.

"You get used." Miss Nura looked at her with a tired expression as they made their way to the living room, "Father! Balthus, sweety! Lady Inami! Our guest has woken up!" She called out.

There in the living room, on the floor where there are multiple pillows along with a table set up with a terracotta teapot and cups. Sitting at the table was Balthus, which she recognized was dressed in his Three Hopes clothing.

"Alexandra! Oh, thank the goddess you finally woke up!" Balthus said as he stood up and Theresa smiled a bit as he gave her a bear hug, "It's good to see you again! And alive!" He grinned.

Balthus wore a green headband around his head. His hair was much longer and somewhat full. He wore a long mustered colored tailcoat with no shirt underneath. The collar of it was fur and he had the coat open but it was held together by a sort of chains and leather straps that reminded her of a BDS- no, she rather not think about it. He also wore dark green pants with a belt and brown boots with some armor.

"It's good to see you Balthus. Though we did not spend much time in the academy, I am glad to see you are well. I have...many questions!" Theresa said and Balthus looked a bit nervous but nodded.

"Why if it isn't Sleeping Beauty!" The two turned to look back at the table, "I see you have finally awakened!" A brown dark-skinned, who Theresa in no doubt thought looked like a model, with long wavy brown hair that stopped at her knees, a small mole under her lip, and dark brown eyes. Gold hoop earrings she also wore. She wore a kaftan long sleeve purple dress with gold embroidery. On her wrist were bracelets made of jade. Wrapped around her waist, was a light pink band, a kuntush sash, said to ward off bad luck.

"I can see you have many questions. But first, sit down and have a drink! The chai tea here in Kupala is the best!" The woman said but Theresa was hesitant but she had heard the voice before.

"I'm sorry, but who are you?" Theresa said as Balthus led her to sit down with them.

"Ara, do you not remember me? We met three years ago during your trip to Derdriu with Claude." The woman and it suddenly clicked.

"You're the woman in the hood." She said and said woman laughed before she took a sip of her drink.

"Indeed. Glad to see you remember me. Allow me to introduce myself." She grinned, "I am Inami, First Princess of the Kingdom of Almyra. I'm the one who...is borrowing you." She said and Alexandra felt a bead of sweat go down her cheek.

"So...you are...Khalid's older sister." She said and Inami's eyes widened slightly but grinned.

"Oh, I like you. You figured out his identity so quickly. You already knew...from the very start..." Inami leaned in a bit, "didn't you?"

"I-I don't understand what is going on. What year is it? Why am I here? I-I'm guessing it must be 1181 still right?" She said and silence fell in the room.

Inami held her chin and stared at her, looking her up and down.

"Cirina never mentioned this. She told me you were sleeping. But then again, that spirit hid a lot of things." Inami said and Theresa looked at her shocked.

"W-Wait! Do you know Cirina?! N-No, wait! What's going on here?! Why am I in Kupala and not Fodlan?! And what did you mean by borrowing me?!" She said and Inami just smiled.

"That's what I want to know too!" Balthus said to the woman, "Claude is going to hang me alive if he finds out I helped you kidnap her! I don't need Holst or Hilda to come after me!" Balthus said and Theresa looked at him shocked.

"Kidnapped?!" Theresa screeched while the Elder just watched in amusement while Miss Nura was looking at her son in horror.

"Don't worry about it. The most he will do is beat you to a pulp. Not that he would be able to anyway." Inani said as she looked at his muscles.

"Balthus von Albrecht, what did you get yourself into!?" Miss Nura roared to her son, "I understand you want to protect me and our home but to think you crossed the Princess of Almyra and helped in a kidnapping! I'm disappointed!" She said Balthus hung his head.

Theresa didn't know if she should feel sorry for Balthus or join in yelling at him as well.

"Now, Nura." The village elder spoke, "Balthus is a grown man who will face his problems. I'm sure there is a reason the Princess has asked for such a favor." He said as he looked back to the Princess, "But I do wonder why you wanted the Fodlan woman kidnapped."

"Kidnapped is a strong word." Inami said and looked back to Alexandra, "I have my reasons to bring her Almyra."

"No...No...T-This is a mistake!" Theresa quickly stood up, making the cups on the table rattle, "I-I need to go back to Fodlan! E-Everyone is waiting for me! I ne—Ulp!" And blood suddenly started to pour from her lips.

Iron.

Her mouth suddenly tasted like iron and while Miss Nura and Balthus quickly ran to her, the village Elder and Inami didn't look surprised. It's like they knew what was coming.

"Breath!" Miss Nura said and turned to her son, "Get me a bucket!"

"W-What is...ULP! Happening to me?!" Theresa screeched as she felt more blood coming up her throat and Balthus brought her bucket.

Red.

It was just all red. She was panting and gasping for air, her body in horrible pain all of a sudden. Miss Nura told Balthus to watch her as the woman scrambled to another room for her medicine.

"Hold on, Alex!" Balthus said as Theresa cringed at her other name but she was too busy vomiting blood.

The pain in her body, why did the experience feel so familiar?!

"That is the work of your crest." The village elder said as she weakly looked at him, Balthus was using heal on her, "Seems you awaken a power that your body is not prepared for. To put it more precisely, your body is entering into shock because it remembers a time you went into great pain. It's trying to defend itself against that new power and is rejecting it." Alexandra panted as she shook and trembled, gasping for air.

"No surprise there." Inami said, "I heard from Tiana only certain crests go through such evolutions. The Crest of Flames, The Crest of Blaiddyd, Crest of Indech, and especially..." a small smirk formed on her lips, "The Crest of Aubin because how deeply rooted it is to one's emotional state. The girl is going through a magic shift."

"I brought the medicine!" Miss Nura said and quickly knelt, holding a red-colored drink.

She uncorked it and held it towards Theresa. Theresa shakily grabbed the drink and gulped it down as if it was the last drop on earth. The effect of the medicine was immediate. Her body no longer felt like it was boiling, it felt relieving and her skin returned to its normal color, but she was still pale. She kept coughing and coughing as Miss Nura gently patted her back and Balthus switched using Restore.

"Gasp...gaps...Grrrrrrrrrr..." Theresa suddenly growled like a wild animal, "Why didn't you say anything?!" The woman snarled and Inami just smiled.

"Because I wanted you to experience firsthand what would happen to you if you tried to escape from me. You would die a painful death before you even set a foot in Fodlan because your current body can't handle your new magic system and is desperately trying to adjust." Inami said as she stood up and walked over to her and knelt, "You're coming to Almyra whether you like it or not. In two years, we will return." She said.

Theresa panted and gasped for air as she felt her lungs recovering. God, she wanted to curse, especially after she recovered officially her memories. But she also felt...dirty. In her previous life...she was the only one alive left of her friend group. Sophia and Iris went missing during an earthquake in 2020. Arisa died in 2019. Unique was killed in 2030. Edith went missing in 2021. And during those times she went down a dark path. The wrongs doings by the justice system took a toll on her as a lawyer and CIA worker. She got her hands dirty in more than just doing her job. She won't lie, she wasn't an honest noble person.

Theresa took a deep breath and glared at the woman with the most murderous glare. Inami grinned, delighted.

"What do you want?"

"You'll find out when we get there."

"...Fine...I...cough! I don't have a choice." And she glared at Balthus, "I want a full explanation!"

"Yes, Ma'am."

[—-]

"It's...1183?" Theresa said as Balthus nodded, as she sat in a mule.

"Yup. It's been three years since the war started. By the way, it's been a week since your birthday." Balthus said and Theresa bit her lip, "You...don't look surprised. I was expecting you to panic." He said as the woman let out a heavy sigh.

"Oh, I am panicking. I'm just better at keeping myself together." Theresa sighed again, "What's your story? How did you get involved in kidnapping me?" She said and Balthus scratched his cheek.

"So a couple of years ago I got into massive debt with a noble." Theresa rolled her eyes and muttered, "Of course." Balthus glared but he continued as he carefully pulled the rope of the mule she was on, "Said noble ran an underground casino. He said he would clear my debt if I won 20 games of poker. And Goddess of Luck was beside me that night because I won all twenty rounds!" He laughed proudly.

"Let me guess, the noble didn't like it?" Theresa said and Balthus said, "Yup!" With a pop.

"Bastard ordered his men to kill me. Well, right when it was going to happen a woman appeared and raided the place with her men. She caught all the people there and went for the noble." He explained and let out a frustrated sigh, "Said woman killed that noble because she discovered it was the one that had kidnapped some people from a village in Almyra to sell as sex slaves." Theresa looked at him shocked.

"As for the other nobles, she spared them all and erased their memories then took all their gold. But, she saw I was a victim. She took over the casino, completely cleansed it, and turned it into an information guild. And she took on my debt. She told me either I pay it, or I owe her a favor in exchange for sparing my life and she will clear my debt." Balthus said as they stopped, "Imagine to my horror when I learned she was The Princess of Almyra. I owe her two favors. One, for protecting my mother and village from the assassins my stepmother would send, and for sparing me." He finished and Theresa pinched the bridge of her nose, letting out a loud and heavy sigh.

"Honestly, I'm not blaming you for this one." Theresa said, "But I'm pretty sure Claude is going to hang you." She glared at him, "If I don't do it first."

"Oh come on, I said I was sorry!" Balthus said, "But fine..." the man turned away and pouted, "You have a point. I'm really sorry you got dragged into my mess." He sighed.

"It's fine. I'm honestly concerned. What has happened over these past three years? Can you tell me?" She said and Balthus nodded, "Also, sorry for you pulling the mule since...I can't walk properly because of what happened earlier." She looked down at the ground.

"Hey, what happened back there is not your fault. You're going through a magic shift. Constance went through one recently along with Fernindad." Balthus said, "All of us with Crest has gone through one." And Theresa blinked.

"What on earth has happened?"

Balthus took her back to his house where he took out a bottle of alcohol because he said she was going to need it after he finished telling her everything. So he began. After the invasion of Garreg Mach, everyone went their separate ways. He, Chris, and some of The Black Eagles left for Nuvelle Territory where they stayed hidden for a year. In the Kingdom, Cornelia launched a full-on invasion and took over Fhirdiad. Dimitri, Lestia, Dedue, and Sadi have gone missing. But Lestia and Lady Rhea are suspected to be locked away in the Tower of Solitude in Enbar. In 1182, Chris finally went out of hiding and launched a rebellion. A resistance rose and he and his army took over Ochs, Gerth, and Nuvelle Territory were now under his control.

Announcing that he was alive caused a split in the Empire. More people began to defect and join the Resistance, The Black Flames, and the nobles in The Empire were now fighting among themselves. This resulted in Edelgard closing the borders of the Empire to prevent anyone from escaping. Theresa was shocked hearing all this and Balthus was right about the drinks they were going to need. The downfall of her new change was that she now fully understood what Arisa meant that alcohol tasted like water. Theresa did notice the pointed ears she had when she woke up. That meant there was a high chance she had become a manakete but with Agarthan blood because that was what Cirina was.

Half- Nabatean. Half-Agarthan. Add human blood, she was a hybrid just like Arisa now.

Now it was 1183. At the beginning of the year, Amir was found alive in a place called The Lake of The Damn. And Chris had found Theresa's location. He would tell Claude where she was in exchange for a secret alliance between the Leicester Alliance and The Black Flames. With that done, The Faerghus Resistance, Leicester Alliance, The Black Flames, and Sirius, were now all secretly allied to go against the Empire and Agartha. Along with The Clans. That brought a form of relief to Theresa. It meant everyone was fighting together against the real enemy. Still, it sadden her that Edelgard had chosen to work with Those Who Slither in The Dark. She knew Arisa was going to hope they could change Edelgard's mind in the future.

But her? No.

"Edelgard is a lost cause..." Theresa muttered as she took a sip of her drink that tasted like water because of her new taste buds.

"You think so?" Balthus said, "Chris thinks otherwise. He said he'll pound it into her if he has to." He said and Theresa snorted, rolling her eyes.

"I don't know what Amir thinks, but I think Edelgard is a lost cause. It is...best to kill her." Theresa said and Balthus was shocked hearing this.

"But, wasn't she one of your students in your swimming classes? You had a somewhat close relationship with her." Balthus said and Theresa sighed.

"It's because I had a close relationship with her. If we fought Edelgard, she would say to take her down. That it must be done. That the future of Fodlan can only happen with her gone. Edelgard is stubborn. She's a good woman but in the end...it all ends up being about her." Theresa sighed again as she put her cup down.

"That does sound like something she would do," Balthus said as Theresa glanced at him before looking off to the side again.

"How's Claude?" She asked and Balthus scratched his cheek.

"I'm pretty sure he's searching for you. He and the Golden Deer found your location. I can only imagine the panic they are in now that you are gone. Plus, it's been a week since you have gone missing." He quotes and Theresa snorted.

"By the way," Theresa spoke up, "It's best you call me by the name Theresa from now on." She said.

"What? Why?" Balthus said, confused as the woman smiled bitterly at him.

"If the name Alexandra is so much heard here and somehow it gets spread outside, no doubt in my mind that Claude is going to come here. For your safety and everyone here, I should go by my other identity, Theresa." She said and gulped down the rest of her drink.

"Alright. Guess now I owe you a favor." Balthus said and looked out to the window, "Damn! Looks like we've been talking for quite a while! It's late already." He said and stood up to pick up the cups and empty snack plates, "Anything you need? I'm the host after all." He said and Theresa couldn't help laughing a bit.

"You sure? I'm pretty sure your mother is furious at you." She said and Balthus cringed.

"Oh yeah...don't remind me." He said as the woman smirked.

Miss Nura had dragged her son out of the house after her episode earlier and began giving the most skin-burning scolding sessions she had ever heard. Even Inami was taken back by it as Balthus returned. He looked like he was on the verge of tears as his mother forced him to bow and apologize.

"Hey, it means you have a good mother. She loves you and only wants the best for you." Theresa said with a small smile.

"Well, my mom is the best." Balthus grinned, "We'll finish talking tomorrow. Inami brought some heat stones to Kupala recently and we had them installed. Your room should have so you can take a hot bath. And medicine is there for you too." He said and Theresa nodded, thanking him as she stood up and went to her room, closing the door shut.

Once in her room, Theresa saw that a bath was set up for her. She walked up to it and felt the water was warm. The woman began to undress and undid her braid, her hair falling loose. She walked to the mirror and looked at herself. From the tips of her fingers and toes, all the way to her elbows and knees, the skin had turned to a dark blue with some white vine markings and snowflakes were marking the top of her hands. Her body still has all the scars, and her chest seemed a bit bigger, which she honestly thought was going to be a huge pain.

"Why couldn't I inherit smaller breasts?" Theresa muttered as she kept looking at her naked self.

She moved her hair to the side to reveal her now pointed ears. If the long hair and pointed ears were her Nabatean features, she is assuming the colored hands and feet were her Agarthan features.

The fangs were definitely from neither since in her previous and current life she was born with pointy fangs. Theresa let go of a sigh as she touched her right ear. On it, was a golden ear cuff. A bitter smile formed on her face as Claude's face came into her mind. Her heart ached as she placed her hands over hers.

"I'm... sorry I can't be with you." She whispered, "But now that I remember who I am, I...think you should forget me. That you should stop searching for me. My dirty hands...you deserve someone better." She whispered and finally, she could feel the tears falling as her lips quivered.

"It's...better that way. It's better..."

[—]

At a hill not too far from Kupala, Inami stood with arms crossed as she looked at the horizon. She sang a soft tune that her stepmother would sing to her when she was a child. An old lullaby passed down through the Almyran Royal Family, a song from old. Summer in Kupala for her was the best. The temperature was perfect. Not too hot or too cold, just right. It's also why Kupala and Almyra have good relationships with each other. She opened her eyes when she heard the flapping of wings and smiled as an Almyran Falcon flew her way. She raised her arm and it landed, a letter tied to its foot. She opened it and smiled.

"You won't have to worry about your stepmother anymore, Balthus." Inami said as she burned the letter, "This is my favor to you, and Kupala."

- Three Days Later: The Leicester Alliance: Deidrue: Reigan Duchy: Roundtable -

A dark atmosphere filled the room as a noblewoman trembled with her head hung. Her eyes watering as a loud BANG rang all over the room. The temperature in the room felt like it kept dropping as the heads of the main houses of The Alliance were all stunned reading the documents that were presented to them, but also, the dark aura that surrounded Claude von Reigan. Claude's back was facing them all, the golden deer had only seen Claude furious once, but this time he was keeping his emotions under control as he had his hands on his hips.

"Mother...how could you do this?!" Duke Adalbrecht roared as he slammed his papers on the table, "For ten years, you have been sending ASSASSINS after my brother and the people of Kupala! Not only that, you...you...I can't even look at you right now!" The young Duke roared.

"D-Dear, I'm sure this is all a misunderstanding! I would never do such a thing! Balthus must be lying about such a thing! You know how that boy has always been with that rowdy behavior of his!" Countess Adalbrecht, also known as Lady Kora, pleaded.

"It wasn't Balthus that sent the assassin's heads and these documents." Claude's cold voice cut through the room like butter, turning towards her with a furious look in his eyes as he slammed another paper on the table.

"Balthus is too good. He wouldn't bother Duke Adalbrecht because he doesn't want to trouble him." Holst spoke up, "Hilda and I...are also witnesses to the assassins Lady Kora has sent." He let out a heavy sigh as Hilda nodded.

"The one who sent these is a merchant, who has been keeping track of your movements because your assassins were after Balthus, and killed his wife and son to get rid of the evidence," Claude said and threw three bloody badges on the table.

The woman slowly walked up and then staggered back as she recognized the skull and claw symbols on the badges. Claude smiled darkly as a chuckle escaped his lips. This came at a horrible time when he was in a horrible mood.

"Really? A dark guild? You have been in contact with a dark guild to send assassins after Balthus. Alright. So how many times did you contact the guild?" Claude said and the woman trembled, "How. Many?" He was not going to repeat it.

"Mother...how many?! Answer him!" Duke Adalbrecht yelled and his mother flinched but finally spoke.

"One..."

BAM!

"150 TIMES!" The woman screamed at the sound of Claude slamming his hands on the table.

The Golden Deer was stunned hearing this as Hilda shook with rage, gritting her teeth. Holst was quick to notice her crest flickering in her eyes. He gently placed his hand on her shoulder to reassure her that it was going to be alright. Hilda was thankful for it.

"Oh, it was more than that." Claude said and turned to the mercenary next to him, "Shez, how many did the report say?"

Shez sighed and looked at the woman with a cold expression. He was sent to The Alliance as Chris's way of showing their trust, while Shea was sent to The Faerghus Resistance.

"250. 250 assassins have been sent, and all of them failed to kill Balthus or were driven away by him or they lost him. The recent 20 were from Holst, Hilda, and I fight them." Shez said as he crossed his arms.

He was angry. Balthus was a long-time friend of his and his sister. He had heard about the situation but he didn't think it was this bad. He knew Balthus didn't want to worry his brother in fear of his stepmother going after the people of Kupala. She went after them anyways. It's a good thing Constance wasn't present or else no doubt in his mind that the blonde-haired woman would have obliterated the lady.

"The Guild she contacted is known as Cross Skull. A Dark Guild that sends assassins after people that pay high amounts of gold. Not that they exist anymore." He said and everyone looked at him confused, "There was a recent report that the entire guild was destroyed a few days ago by a single mercenary known as The One-Eyed Demon." Claude wanted him to explain, "My company and I went to investigate and arrived at a scene of a guild reduced to ashes. I didn't get a chance to talk to him before he disappeared. All he did was throw at us some documents we are presenting now. The ones that are covered in soot and ash." He explained as the woman fell to her knees.

"T-This can't be happening...Lies...It's all lies..." Lady Kora kept repeating as Claude spoke.

"Oh, it's not a lie. You should prepare—-"

"SILENCE YOU FILTHY SCUM!"

"Mother!" The Duke roared as the woman panted and gasped for air, her hair a mess after screaming such words.

"Y-You don't tell me what to do boy unknown roots! I did everything I had to ensure my son of noble blood would inherit his position than that bastard of a common whore! Do you have any idea how much I had to sacrifice!?" The woman roared as the Duke was trembling with fury.

"My son! My sweet son! You have to understand! I did this for you! Even your father understands! He must!" She said and the former Duke of Adalbrecht shook his head.

"No. I never will." The former Duke said as the woman looked at him shocked, "You tried to pit Balthus against his brother. You spread horrible rumors about the woman I love to the point people would harass her. To the point, she left for the safety of her son and her people." He said and the woman burst out laughing.

"What do you see in that low-class whore?! She is nothing! I should have gotten rid of her and her—-!"

Lady Kora didn't even get to finish what she was saying as a fist met her cheek and sent her flying across the table. The woman crashed into an old painting and fell onto the floor. Her cheek was bruised, some teeth had fallen out, and she was out cold. Everyone slowly turned to look at the one responsible as they put down their fist. Hilda was trembling and shaking with rage, Holst didn't even know when she made a move.

"You bitch." The woman said coldly and stormed out of the Roundtable.

"Hilda! Hilda!" Holst yelled and went after her, followed by the rest of the golden deer

"Do you mind going?" Claude said to Shez and the mercenary nodded since Hilda had also become a friend of his during the time he, she, and Holst chased away the assassins.

Claude let a frustrated sigh as he pinched the bridge of his nose and looked over to the knocked-out countess as Edward and Manuela were making sure she was still alive.

"Hilda held back, just to let you all know." Edward said as he looked at Claude and the former Duke and the current Duke of Adalbrecht, "She's fine."

"Good." Claude said and turned to the dukes, "Because of this, Lady Kora will be locked up and questioned. As well as trialed. What do you two want to do? The choice is yours." He said as the young Duke gritted his teeth as his shoulders slumped.

"Question her...That woman...is no longer my mother." The Duke said as the former nodded.

Claude ordered the guards to take the countess to the underground cells where she will remain.

"Lady Kora will be stripped of her titles and will no longer be of noble status." Claude declared loudly so everyone in the Roundtable could hear, "Anyone who even tries to help her will be seen as an accomplice. Judith and Count Gloucester, I'm trusting you two to take over the investigation on what was exchanged between the Dark Guild and The Countess. Who knows what else she spoke of." He said as the guards dragged the knocked-out woman away.

"Very well." Count Gloucester said, "That woman has also come to my territory before, and with the new information in light, I want some answers as well." The Count said and excused himself.

"Oh, this is going to be a workout." Judith sighed and left, waving as the other round table members left.

Only Claude, Former Duke, and Young Duke Adalbrecht remained along with Edward and Manuela left to treat the old countess.

"I am so sorry!" Young Duke Adalbrecht dropped to his knees, and placed his forehead on the floor, "I am so sorry! This all happened right under my nose! I should have paid more attention to my mother's actions! I am so sorry!" He said and Claude sighed, punching the bridge of his nose.

"Just...make sure you and your father take responsibility for this. It's been a long day." Claude said and the two dukes said thank you and excused themselves.

Now only Claude and Edward remained. Claude took deep breaths and put his hands on his hips as he turned away from the doctor and looked down at the destroyed painting and wall.

"Hilda replied did a number." He muttered as he spotted some teeth, "Why did this happen when I was in a horrible mood? I almost think it was timed." He said as he rubbed his eyes.

"The crimes the countess did will not be forgiven." Edward said as his hands glowed red and he went on to fix the broken wall and painting, "Also, is it true that Balthus wasn't the one that sent those papers?"

"It's true. I'm sure you remember her. Hereta." Claude and Edelgard snorted, "She's the one that sent the assassin's heads and documents because they killed some of her men." He said as the Doctor hummed.

"Well, you know the saying, Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned," Edward said as he finished repairing the area, "How old is she?" He asked as Claude raised an eyebrow.

"Same age as Balthus. Why?" Claude asked and Edward just shrugged.

"Curious. Anyway, how are you doing?" The Doctor asked Claude took a deep breath and let it out, not looking his way.

"Cirina knew." He said, "Pardon?" Edward looked at him confused.

Claude kept taking deep breaths as he turned to him. His forehead furrowed, eyes narrowed, and his right foot tapped on the floor before he spoke.

"That day that she dropped us in the city, she said to Falco, to wait for a certain day. Cirina knew when Alexandra was going to wake up. That's why she said to me and the others when she rescued us that Alexandra was going to be fine. That she had it all planned out." The archer said and it clicked, Claude was stressing out where she was.

Unlike Amir, the Duscur woman was found by friends and family. Alexandra? She had no one. No one knew where she was. No one knew where went. No one knew she was alive other than a few. Now, Cirina made her disappear somewhere. What if Alexandra had not woken up? What if Cirina used her magic to move her heart and body to a different location? It could be anywhere in Fodlan! The question was, where?

"Claude, I have an idea." Edward said and Claude gave him a look to explain, "Let's try going to the frost forest."

"Edward, I come from the bloodline of The 10 Elites. Cirina gave the command that no one of their bloodline or the saints can enter." Claude sighed but Edward raised a finger.

"I'm going to hell anyway so I might as well say it. Cirina has passed, meaning there's a chance her commands no longer have a hold over The Frost Forest, meaning..." The Doctor smiled and Claude's eyes went wide.

"We can go."

- Kupala -

It's been a few days since Theresa had woken up. She finally properly introduced herself after apologizing to Miss Nura and The Village Elder, who she learned was named Elder Noma, Balthus's Grandfather. She introduced herself as Theresa, not Alexandra for various reasons. Inami didn't say anything but just nodded. And she told Balthus to start packing his things because they were going to head to Almyra. Alexandra didn't have any of her belongings with her. They were all in Garreg Mach. And any other items she did have access to were in her magic closet, which she couldn't access because trying to cast a single heal spell would send her into cardiac arrest.

"This is what you meant about basically having to relearn everything from scratch," Theresa grumbled as she finished braiding her hair and change into some clothing Inami prepared for her.

She wore a loose white shirt with puffy translucent sleeves, and a cream-colored cloak with a hood to protect her from the sun. She had two ice stones in her pockets because now she was even more sensitive to the heat. It was funny because in her previous life, she absolutely hated the cold and now she needed it to survive. Theresa walked to the mule she was allowed to borrow and would now be under her care for a while.

"Sigh...Falco, I hope you are okay..." Theresa whispered as she looked over to Miss Nura going over the supplies she was giving Balthus and looked over to Inami who was talking to her soldiers.

Inami would be riding on a wyvern, a resurrected wyvern, and seeing the tome on her waist, Theresa guessed that Inami was a Magil Knight. Magil Knights were rare in Fodlan. They were more because of House Nohr, and Forrest was would switch to Magil Knight at times. The class became popular in the academy and Lady Rhea approved of the class being taught.

"If I recover, I'll see if I can study to become a Magil knight." Theresa thought as she got on the mule, "I'll be in your care now."

"(Yes, Miss.)" the mule said and Theresa reeled back, she just understood what the animal could say.

"Okay, that's going to take a while to get used to." The woman sighed and got on.

"Bye, everyone!" Children yelled out as Balthus got on a bull with giant curled horns, "Take care! Balthus, you better be good!" Miss Nura called out and Balthus covered his face in embarrassment.

"I will, Ma! Have some, faith in me!" Balthus yelled and the woman just laughed as they waved.

"You sure you don't have any belongings?" Inami said as she walked up to Theresa, "If you want, I can have one of my ladies sneak into Garreg Mach and get your things." She said and Theresa shook her head.

"It's no use. My friends and I cast a spell over the entire academy. No one can break into the rooms even with magic. It was designed that way to keep the place from being damaged in invasions or when thieves come." Theresa explained as Inami hummed.

"But, seriously," Theresa turned to her with a half-lidded gaze, "why are you taking me to Almyra? I hardly know you." She said and the princess smiled.

"I made a deal with your spirit friend." Theresa looked at her puzzled, her expression saying, What deal did you make with her?

"I will tell you when we get to my palace. You and Balthus will be under my watch till your promised reunion day." Inami said as their mounts went to the north gate exist, that lead to the mountains.

"Goodbye, everyone!"

"Take care!"

"By everyone!" Balthus waved as Theresa put on her hood and looked at the village and far beyond.

"Goodbye, Fodlan. See you in two years." She whispered and turned away.

It was time to head off to Almyra.

- Frost Forest -

Claude didn't know if it was a good idea to bring Rensen with them. Let alone Seteth of all people. 20 minutes away from the forest, the rest of the golden deer remain except those with Crest. And if Edward's theory proved correct, they could enter the place. They waited a few seconds and no voices screamed in their heads. No pain or wave or emotions washed over them. The place was still colder than the north but they could walk. They could run freely in the place. Seteth jumped off his wyvern wearing the clothing he wore during the winter time years ago. He raised his hand and glowed green for a bit before it faded.

"The magic concentration in the air is gone! Anyone can now enter the forest safely!" The man announced and cheers were heard as well as sighs of relief.

"Finally!" Hilda cheered and pulled out a magic crystal, "EVERYONE YOU CAN COME IN! IT'S SAFE!"

"Wait, really?!" Leonie yelled, "Oh thank the goddess!" Ignatz was heard.

"Alright! Time to collect some of that mist fruit!" Raphael said, "Seriously, food again?!" Boey said.

"Oh, finally! I always wanted to explore the place!" Silque squealed!

"Yes! A new place to play hide and seek!" Selkie said and quickly turned into her fox form, running into the forest.

"Hey everyone! Be careful!" Shez was heard as he went to chase after everyone.

"Dorte likes it here," Marianne said as the horse snorted and munched on some bluegrass.

After twenty minutes, everyone arrived. Rensen looked out to the forest and let go of a sigh as he knelt and placed his hand on the ground. He closed his eyes and listened. The group became silent as they watched him stand up and turned to them with a bitter smile.

"It is true. Cirina's presence is no longer her." He said as he looked out at it.

"But, it doesn't make sense." Seteth said and walked up to him, "The magic veins should have repaired themselves. The Frost Forest...would have melted." The man said as the rest of the others either started playing in the snow or like Ignatz, started to sketch swiftly.

"Unfortunately, I don't think that will happen ever," Rensen said as he kept looking at the forest and the first signs of wildlife started to show.

Snow owls he spotted not too far. Some snow fae were playing and flying around the area. He even spotted some Yuki-ona that were playing far away.

"The breath of life may have returned to this place but it will forever remain winter. When Lady Cirina crashed, dark magic and her despair forever altered the course of the magic veins in this area. This place will permanently remain like this." He said and Seteth was shocked.

"But the north," the blue-haired man said as he looked over to the golden deer playing, "its magic veins are cursed. Only a God or a being of the divine can remove the curse. And none of us have that power." The man sighed and cringed along with Seteth when Edward was hit in the face by a snowball.

"Sigh, kids." Rensen said, "It's good seeing them have fun like this. With everything happening in the war, something like this is needed once in a while." The man smiled a bit.

"Hm~ Hm~"

The two men turned to see Naga humming as she made a snowball in her hand and quickly walked up to them.

"Look! Look!" This was the first hearing her with so much emotion, "It's a snow bunny!" She said, the tips of her ears twitching.

Seteth chuckled and looked down at her hands but paused. The snow bunny was shaped nicely and its ears weren't short, but instead were twigs.

"Naga...are you sure that's a snow bunny?" Rensen said as he looked at it and the woman huffed.

"Men." She spat and left.

"I swear sometimes I think I'm talking to Sandana." Rensen groaned.

Right when Seteth was about to speak...

"RRRRRRRROOOOOOOAAARRR!"

A roar suddenly resonated all around. Birds and animals ran for their lives, startled. At first, the group thought it was Falco but the minute white and blue scales came into view from high above a tree where the wyvern perched, that thought was out the window. The unknown giant wyvern growled as everyone became still. It looked at everyone one by one till it landed on Claude. Claude felt like its gaze was suddenly picking him apart. The two didn't break eye contact for 30 seconds but it felt like an eternity. The wyvern snorted and huffed before it sent them all one last glare and roar before it flew away.

"What was that?!" Hilda screeched and Marianne let out a sigh of relief as Selkie popped out of the snow, turning back to her human form.

"It's okay everyone!" Selkie said, "The wyvern said that if we try to harm the forest, he'll make us pay. So he's allowing us to be here." The Kitsune said and turned back into a fox to jump through the snow.

"I've had too many heart attacks recently." Claude sighed as they all began walking through the forest and headed to Cirina's shrine.

— Two weeks later: Verdant Moon -

Two weeks. It took two weeks to travel over the mountains. Thankfully after some miracles, they didn't encounter any bandits or run into trouble. Still, with the damn heat, Theresa felt like she was dying. She lay like a dying woman on the mule, who she learned was named Pablo during her journey to Almyra. The bull was called Chuker, and the wyvern was called Rose. It fits because of the fancy rose-engraved armor.

"Hey, you alright?" Balthus said as Theresa weakly turned her head to him with a blank stare.

"Oh do not worry!" Inami said from above, "We'll be reaching the hill soon! There, you will see the capital and the castle at its center." She grinned and sure enough, a few minutes later, they arrived at the hill.

They made their way up but Theresa was just so tired but first sight, the tiredness evaporate as she slowly sat up. She carefully got off Pablo and began to walk to the top of the hill where Inami was and Balthus joined them. The princess grinned proudly as the wind began to blow and spread her arms to present to her.

"Welcome to Persepolis! The capital of Almyra and its crown jewel!" Inami said as Theresa gasped, "And that!" She pointed to the giant spilled castle, "Is Alamut Castle. My home."

Turkish, Persian, and middle eastern buildings were the first thing that came to Theresa's mind. Buildings with dome structures, arches, and minarets of different styles filled the city. The Kingdom of Almyra was built on a cliff structure that was supported by stone walls along the mountain walls. The city was filled with Persian, Turkish, and Middle Eastern architecture and the castle was a giant spiral structure that would make it almost impossible for anyone to invade and take over. Unlike Fodlan, Theresa could feel so much supernatural life flowing through the place. She can sense many nature spirits.

In the skies, she spotted a herd of wyverns flying east. But it was the beautiful view of the sun that as it rose, lit the city, bringing it to life.

"Now, then." Inami said with a grin, "Time to bring you to my home."

[—]

The city was bustling with people and life as they walked beside their mounts. The people of Almyra had golden brown, russet, or dark brown skin. For hair color, the colors varied from black, caramel, dark brown, and once in a while blonde. Theresa did spot people with more colorful varieties of hair. Honestly, in a place they were at, she stuck out like a sore thumb because of her blue and red hair.

"I should cut it and dye it when I get the chance." Theresa thought as they kept walking.

The clothing of the people: women wore voluminous, multilayered, colorful skirts and long headscarves pinned under the chin, which allow loose strands of hair to frame their faces. The men wore collarless white, brown, dark green, or orange shirts and long cloaks, secured in around the middle by a cummerbund. Children ran around the place as music was played by different street performers. Men and women at their stalls yelled out deals and the goods they had to sell. There were also merchants that she spotted and some she recognized from the clothing. She spotted some Fodlan merchants and one had bright re—-

"Oh no." Theresa suddenly said as she immediately recognized who it was.

"What's wrong?" Balthus said and looked over to where Theresa was looking, "Oh...Oh! That's Anna and...Anna? A mini Anna?" The man rubbed his eyes to make sure he was not seeing things.

"Come on, Sis! Me sticking with you won't be so bad! Besides, it's my time for training too! I'm thirteen years old!" Mini Anna said as Adult Anna pinched the bridge of her nose.

"Anastasia, you're not even supposed to be here! Mother is going to hang me if she finds out you snuck off!" Adult Anna, also known as Annabelle, said angrily, "Besides, you're not even supposed to be in this world! Didn't you head off to Elyos with Analisa?!" She said and Anastasia pouted.

"Well, we were originally but the Outrealm gate on the other side has been closed. Ananita and Anarose sent a message saying that something had happened and the Outrealm gate to Elyos had to be closed. The other gates are open but only Elyos's is closed." Anastasia finished explaining as Annabelle sighed heavily.

"Fine. You can stay." Anastasia cheered, "But I'm putting you to work! This isn't free!" The little one stuck her tongue out at her.

"Oh, I know her." Inami said, "So you two know each other... Eh, I'll just pay her gold to buy her silence that you two are here. Shall we say hi?" She said and Theresa nodded.

They made their way through the crowd and they could hear the two sisters bickering. Annabelle stopped and turned to look their way. Her eyes quickly widened seeing a familiar face. A face that...

"Hi...Anna." Theresa whispered as she avoided eye contact and before she knew it, Anna jumped over her cart and quickly hugged her tightly.

"Oh, Alexandra! You're alive!" Anna cried out in joy as she hugged the woman tightly, "Oh thank Sothis! I missed you so much!" She said as she let go and wiped her tears, "W-When did you come back?! No wait, what are you doing here in Almyra?!" She asked.

"From what I learned, I woke up on my birthday. I also have yet to receive an explanation." Theresa said and Anna looked at her confused till she finally noticed Balthus and also the princess who had her arms crossed.

"Sis, who is this?" Anastasia said as she walked up but Inami quickly spoke.

"100,000 gold for you two to stay silent about your friend is here. And not a word of her being awake." Inami said as the two Anna's looked at her stunned, "50 thousand for you. And 50 thousand for the little one."

"What?!" Anna looked shocked and then her expression became angry as she quickly turned to Balthus, "Balthus, what mess did you drag Alexandra into?!"

"Why are you yelling at me?!" Balthus said, "If anything, ask her!" He pointed at Inami, "Even I don't know!"

"Alright, enough!" Inami yelled and the two stopped, "I will explain everything once we get to my palace. You two will come as well." She said and she pointed fingers at the sisters.

Anastasia quickly hid behind her older sister, spooked by them. Anna was just astounded by the woman's attitude and looked at Alexandra for an explanation. But even the woman shook her head and gave her a look to just listen.

[—]

As they walked through the city, Theresa was stunned by the view of things the more they went up. The city was structured in a certain way, there seemed to be some sort of high arch and it became more visible as they kept going up the city. Soon they arrived at a smaller castle with a red stone structure, similar to the ancient coastal castles in Turkey. It was surrounded by a metal fence with lion stones as well as giant tall pillars. In a field not too far, Theresa spotted a herd of Elk, feeding on grass.

"Your Highness!" An olive-skinned woman with brown cruelly hair tied in a side ponytail and dressed in a bright green dress with long sleeves and flower patterns arrived at the gates with guards, "Welcome home, Lady Inami! And who are these?" The woman said as she looked at the four.

"I'm back, Zoya. As for them, they are my guest." Inami said as she jumped off her wyvern and the guards went to take their mounts to the stables, "Do prepare rooms for the man and the blue-haired woman. They will be staying with us for the next two years." She said and Zoya blinked multiple times.

"U-Uh, very well?" Zoya said as Inami smiled at the sound of feet running her way.

The woman raised her arms and yelled out, "MAMA IS HOME!" So loudly that the people of her county all knew, some chuckled and others just rolled their eyes.

They knew their princess was calling her sons. In a blink of an eye, two blurs in the speed of light ran into her arms.

"MOTHER!" A young boy with tan skin, golden eyes, and bushy brown hair that wore a green shirt, a headband, and shorts, looked about 13 years old.

The other boy who also had brown hair but was tied in a ponytail looked around seven years of age. He had green eyes.

"Asif!" She said to the 13 years old, "Bilal!" To the seven-year-old, "I'm home my sons!" The woman hugged them tightly and kept kissing their cheeks multiple times.

"Ma, who are these people?" Asif said as he looked at them with narrowed eyes, "Are they...from Fodlan?" He asked, taking a step back.

"Hey, none of that." Inami said as he looked at the boy with narrowed eyes, "They are good people, my boy. You can trust them." She reassured him, but the boy still looked at them wearily.

Inami smiled sadly as she patted his head and turned to the others.

"It's been a long day. Why don't you all follow Zoya? She'll have rooms ready for you all. We'll talk over a meal."

[—]

It was around midday when they arrived at the hill. It was the afternoon when they arrived at the city and castle. Now it was night once more. After showering, and getting dressed, it was time to head out to the dining room. Inami's castle had a warm atmosphere that reminded her of Remire Village. She walked out of the room she was given and saw a woman named Zoya waiting for her outside.

"Hello, Miss. I am Zoya. Her Highness Lady Inami has asked me to escort you." Zoya said and Theresa nodded.

"(Thank you very much. Lady Inami has been kind to me.)" Theresa switched to speaking Almyran, which made Zoya's eyes go wide along with a few servants nearby.

"(You can speak our language?)" Zoya also switched and Theresa nodded, "(You speak it so fluently...Did you live in Almyra for a time?)" the woman asked as they began walking through the hallways.

"(No. I have an aunt who was born here and moved to Fodlan. She taught me and my sisters how to speak her language. I can read and write it as well.)" Theresa said as they passed by some furniture.

The more they walked, Theresa saw that the furniture had a variety of partners and colors. She even spotted some mandalas. And a variety of artworks that she was questioning Inami's taste in art. Surprisingly, her talk with Zoya went smoothly. The two women talk in Almyran and would sometimes switch to Fodlan. The talk was comforting. They talk about her time learning the language as well as how Sandana taught her how to cook some Almyran dishes.

But her old habits as Theresa would never die. In her other life, she was someone between introvert and extrovert. When she wanted to spend time alone and inside she would and if she felt lonely, she would go out. But that also brought her the habit of observing people. She would listen and observe before she would decide whether to engage or not. In this case, she was not just observing Zoya but everyone they passed by. Even when she woke up, fell back into the habit of observing people. She could tell Zoya was a bit weary but once they spoke, her shoulders became relaxed and they talked more freely.

Servants that they had passed by were watching her every movement. If anything, their eyes reminded her of the people in a courtroom, waiting for her to make one wrong move so she would be judged. She almost wanted to scoff. Unfortunately, now that she had regained her memories, eyes that once looked like that in her past life...eyes that looked down at her...eyes that looked at her like a piece of meat...eyes that looked at her like a tool...eyes that wanted to use her...

She was already used to it again.

She was not afraid of them anymore.

"Lady Inami! Miss Theresa is here!" Zoya called out as they arrived at the dining room.

The dining room had a large table stand with three large round copper trays with multiple small metal bowls and plates with food. The small bowls at the edge had raisins in sweet syrup. The elongated plates either had baklava, Almyran delights, and almond cookies. On the first tray, three bowls stuffed with grape leaves, peas with beef, yogurt, and rice pilaf.

The second one had a tan chin, puri with humus, and green soup, along with rice. The last tray had Kuku sabzi, Tamarind-Stuffed Fish that she recognized because Sandana use to make the dish for her and the others. Lastly, charred eggplant with chile Sauce & tahini. As for drinks, there was fermented turnip juice, coffee for the adults, and tea.

"Come sit!" Inami grinned as Balthus slumped and Anna was howling as Anastasia was chatting away with the boys, "You made it just on time! Zoya makes the best dishes in the world!" The woman said as Zoya showed Alexandra where to sit.

There was so much food that brought Theresa a sense of nostalgia. Back in her old world, there was a time she traveled to Persia, Turkey, and the Middle East when she was young. Mostly around her late thirties. Seeing food that was similar to her old world brought her a sense of joy as she picked up a flatbread, tore it apart, and dipped it into the hummus. She didn't realize that Inami was watching her eat.

The princess thought that the woman would be hesitant to try the food but if anything, she surprised her. Theresa knew how to eat them. Some of the dishes were eaten with utensils and others with hands. Theresa picked up a puri, pilled it with chickpeas, cilantro, and chopped onion bits then poured some of the soup into it. Then plopped it into her mouth and chewed with her eyes closed, in bliss.

"How's the food?" Inami said and Theresa raised her hands and gave two thumbs up as she kept eating.

The woman had a flowery aura around her. She swallowed and wiped her lips using the napkin that was handed to her.

"It's delicious." Theresa said and Inami chuckled, "Now that everyone is here, it's best the children leave. It's time for the adults to talk." She said.

"But Ma!" The boys whined and Anastasia made puppy dog eyes at her sister.

"No. Listen to the princess. We're guests after all." Anna said as her sister pouted in the end and nodded.

"Come! I'll show you the stables! Mother has some elk that she takes care of!" Asif said and Bibal nodded excitedly.

"Oh! I've heard a lot about the Elk. I read that their shedding fur can make some of the best blankets that can be sold for a pretty good price!" Anastasia said as she made a circle shape with her fingers as they left the room.

"Zoya, keep an eye on them for me," Inami said and the woman nodded as she left, closing the doors to the dining room.

It was faint but Theresa felt a sound barrier cast over the place.

"Now," Inami intertwined her hands, crossed her legs, and cocked her head with a smile, "let's talk business." She turned to Anna, "The reason I immediately offered 100,000 gold to remain silent was because I made a deal with the one called Cirina." Anna became still.

"Wait, Cirina, as in The Frost Knight?" Balthus said, shocked, "But that's impossible! She's dead!"

"Not exactly." Anna sighed heavily as she glanced at Alexandra, "Should I say it?"

"No. I will." Theresa said and looked at Balthus, "You are right about Cirina. She is dead. Officially now." Inami raised an eyebrow as Anna looked at her shocked, "Balthus, I'm sure you know the story of Cirina from your years growing up." She said and Balthus nodded.

"I do...I know both versions of the story. The Clan's version and The church of Serios one." Theresa's eyes went wide hearing this, "Because Kupala is mostly a secluded country, we have a much closer relationship with The Clans. We talk and trade with them. Thus, we're told different versions of the stories. And during my time in the academy was when I learned of Fodlan's version of Cirina's story." Balthus explained.

"Truthfully, we have so many versions being told growing up, I don't know which one is the real one."

"Sigh..." Theresa sighed heavily as he placed a hand on her forehead, "I don't blame you. Even I'm confused about Cirina's life. But the biggest question is why was she betrayed?" She muttered.

"Alexandra, what did you mean Cirina was officially dead?" Anna said and Theresa looked at her with a bitter smile.

"When Cirina died, she died filled with rage. So much so that she bound her soul to The Crest of Aubin that so the descendants would seek revenge on The descendants of The 10 elites and saints on her behalf. She became a demonic spirit." She said and looked at them all, "It's best...I tell you all my life before I met Jeralt and Arisa. My memories of my time with my father are hazy but...I remember clearly the day my father died, and how he did..." she said.

"We only just met and you are telling me your life story?" Inami said, "Aren't you trusting me and Balthus a bit too quickly?"

"Hey..." Balthus said and a low tone, "I'm honored she is trusting me enough to speak of it. And besides," he crossed his arms and glared at the princess, "I'm a man of my word." He looked at Theresa, "I won't say anything. That's a promise."

"And of course, I won't say anything." Anna said, "I was there after all when we saved you and Rensen."

"As for you princess," Theresa crossed her arms and looked at her, "You said you made a deal with Cirina. This confirms to me that Cirina must have placed her trust in you for some reason. Whatever the deal is, I'm pretty sure you know the consequences of breaking the trust of spirit." She said as Inami smiled.

"How fascinating. You have a deep connection with the spirits of nature." Inami said, "Very well, I will not say a word. On my honor as the crown princess of Almyra." She said, "Now, what is your story."

Theresa sighed as she took a moment, trying to recollect her thoughts of the past. They were all so hazy. The majority of her memories of Cornelia even if they were hazy, were of the woman obsessed with researching the Crest of Aubin and her parents getting into screaming matches over it.

"My earliest memories were my parents getting into screaming matches over Cornelia's research. She was...obsessed with researching the Crest of Aubin because it was a powerful rare crest. My father would do everything he could to keep me away from her. Not that she would show me affection or anything because she was always in her magic lab. I never saw her. The only times I would see her was when she would get into an argument with my father." Theresa said as she rubbed her forehead.

The trio listened quietly which she appreciated.

"At some point, Cornelia stormed into my room as my father was telling a story to go to sleep. She demanded to know what happened to the relics my family owned. Before the argument became worse, my father quickly dragged her out of the room and they went to argue in his office. The maids of that time would come to comfort me." Theresa sighed as she crossed her arms and leaned back on the chair, looking out to the window of the night sky of Almyra.

"This continued till I was three. The imperial year 1163, Harpspring Moon, the 15th. It was a foggy day. It was the day my father died. I held his hand when he breathed his last. Cornelia didn't even come to see him. But his last word to me was..." she closed her eyes, the image of her father...

"That woman is not real. Search for the North Star that meets the wolf star."

"Those were the words he told me. Now as an adult, I understand what he meant." She whispered, "The relic that went missing was thrown into the lake north of Aubin county and was washed into the river where I met Arisa, Jeralt, Amir, Anna, and the others. Lastly...that my real mother was killed and that the one with us was a fake." She said as Anna sighed, crossing her arms.

"Princess, I'm going to assume that with your connections you have an idea of what is going on in Fodlan, correct?" Anna said as Inami hummed and leaned back in her chair.

"Oh, of course, she does. Who do you think is in charge of the guild, The Wyverns Tale?" Balthus said and the princess burst out laughing, "And I'm proud of it!" The princess said.

"But to answer your question, yes. I know what is going on in Fodlan. As well as the enemy we are now all facing, The Queen of Those Who Slithers in The Dark, Anacharis." Inami sighed, shaking her head.

"Continuing on my story," Theresa said, "the years that led up to me meeting Arisa were a living nightmare. All of my father's apprentices and Rensen's went missing. All of the former servants of House Aubin either were kicked out, fired, banished or went missing. They were all replaced with people Cornelia chose. Every day I asked myself if I would make it out alive. Every day was the same. Magic training, lessons in being a proper woman, beatings, magic training, more beatings. The list continued." Theresa said as she closed her eyes.

"It's all for your own good. It is for you to become the proper heir of House Aubin."

"She always repeated those words. And when I could, I would escape to the town, to my father's workshop." Theresa said, "And then...Solon came." A bead of sweat went down her cheek.

"Magic training then turned to be experimented on. Thankfully it never came to being cut, but they would always inject things into me. And soon, it seems they got the results they wanted. To awaken Cirina." She said as Inami slowly uncrossed her arms.

"They planned to resurrect Cirina using me." She looked Inami right in the eye, "I was to become her vessel. It didn't help that Cornelia knew I was the spitting image of her. Meaning, I am her incarnation. The perfect vessel." She said as the gravity of the situation sunk in everyone.

"Cornelia was trying to use Alexandra the same way Rhea tried with Arisa..." Anna thought as she covered her mouth.

Theresa waited a moment for them to process everything that she had just told them. Perhaps it was because she relived her entire past life in her dreams is why everything felt so clear.

"I'll keep the rest short." Theresa said, "They tried to use me to resurrect Cirina. The day they processed the plan, everything backfired." She said and pulled down the opening of her shirt.

"Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!" Balthus screamed and quickly covered his eyes.

"What? I was going to show you my scar." She said and Anna gently removed her hands from her shirt.

"Just tell us." Anna said as the princess was trying to hold her laughter because of how red Balthus was, "Alright." Theresa sighed and apologized to Balthus.

"They tried to implant a Crest stone in my heart." Theresa said, "It backfired. I lost complete control and I ended up killing everyone in the mansion as well as burning it down. From there, Amir and Arisa snuck in, made me snap out of it, and rescued me. The fire was perfect for everyone to believe I was dead. From there, the rest is history. That's it." Theresa finished as they remained silent.

"Whoa...I...I'm sorry you went through that. I guess this also clears up a lot of things about why you showed hostility to us with crest." Balthus sighed, "And, I'll keep my promise."

"Balthus, I don't want sympathy. I don't need pity." Theresa said earning herself a surprised look, "What I want, is for you to still treat me the same as always. Yes, I went through a traumatic childhood, and the anger still burns. But I don't let it hold me back. Just like how you don't want to bother your brother over the assassination attempts your stepmother has done." She and now Balthus were shocked.

"Wait, how do you know about it?!" Balthus said and Theresa chuckled a bit nervously.

"I...ran into one the assassins in the past. He confused Ares for you and well...Jeralt, Florencio, and Sandana beat the information out of him." The woman lied smoothly and Balthus groaned.

"Oh yeah, I remember." Anna snorted, "Florencio made sure to get rid of the assassin."

"Well, with your story now told, I should explain the deal I made." Inami let out a deep breath and spoke, "Cirina told me to take your away on your birthday in 1183. To bring you to a place that had no connection to her. To train you." She explained as Theresa looked at her surprised.

"As I said earlier, your body has changed because Cirina had you inherit her power. The human body can only endure so much. It is not built for such extreme changes. It has to naturally adjust to the change as you grow up." Inami said as she picked up her glass of beat juice and then an empty cup.

She slowly began to pour the liquid into the empty one, seeing Theresa through the crimson liquid with a half-lidded gaze.

"But disturbing that order comes with consequences. If you suddenly add an unknown factor, your body will react to attack it. To defend itself thus, becoming too much. This is the case with you. Despite you slept for three years, it was only to heal you, not to inherit a new power. Cirina was hesitant to become one with you because she did not have your consent." She said as the liquid started to drip from the glass, "But it seemed something happened that forced her to continue the process. The result should have been your soul dying and she would have a new body. But it didn't." They put the cup down and stared at the spilled juice.

"Instead, Cirina decided to break the law of cycles. She would be the one to pay the price of life. She will die for you to live. The piece would be her soul to finally leave this world and her power would go to you. Officially breaking the curse she had cast in bounding her soul to The Crest of Aubin." Inami explained as Theresa started shaking.

"So...that's what she meant...by giving up her existence," Theresa said as a sob escaped her lips.

"Yes." Inami said with a somber tone, "Because of this, your body is trying to quickly readjust to this power. But it's dangerous. Usually, you would have to be put into a magic comatose but because you have now awakened, you are feeling the consequences. Try to even do one spell, and you will be coughing blood. If...you do it the way you were taught." Inami smiled as Theresa slowly looked up at her.

"Fodlan magic tends to focus on the formula and the results. It does not focus on the spiritual aspect. Try casting a spell the way the woman Sandana taught you." She said and Theresa gawked.

"You just said that I'll die if I try to cast a spell."

"If you do it the way people on Fodlan do."

"But your friend Arisa, doesn't do it that way, does she?" Inami smiled as she rested her elbows on the table, "Neither does your friend Amir. You and your friends were taught Fodlan's, Duscur's, and Almyra's way of using magic growing up, weren't you?" She said with a grin.

"Also, Arisa also had to change her method of casting magic when she returned to Fodlan with the girl Flayn. She suffered what you are currently going through." She said as Theresa let out a groan.

"Fine. I'll cast a spell. Anna, Balthus, be ready to use heal on me if things go south." Theresa said as they nodded.

She raised her hand and visualized an ice crystal in it. However, instead of focusing on the structure, her focus was on the world around her. Sandana's warm smile came into her mind as she remembered her younger years. There was a time she was struggling to control her magic and Sandana took her to the forest where they camped for a few days.

"In Almyra, we believe in nature spirits and pray to them. We leave offerings at trees as thank you for their help. When people leave offerings, they ask for things like protection, wealth, luck, and prosperity. But those that use magic, we work together with them." The woman explained as she placed her hand on a tree.

"We borrow the power of the spirits. We ask for their help. So,e of us even make contracts with them." Sandana said, "The best way to familiarize yourself with nature is to be surrounded by it. True to form some friendships with the fae here. You'll understand eventually." Sands said with a grin.

"How interesting," Inami said as specks of light came from the potted plants in the dining room.

They gathered around Theresa's hand and began to form droplets of water. Soon, wind gathered and the water droplets grew and started to freeze together to form a crystal ball size ice sphere, which she had to quickly get her other hand to hold.

"Whoa!" Theresa said as she put it down on the table and looked at her hands, "I'm...not in pain."

"Nice job!" Anna clapped and Balthus gave her a thumbs up, "So back to the basics Huh?"

"Oh, don't worry about that." Inami said, "So, now that I have told you everything, what do you say about being my apprentice? Of course, I don't do this for free, so you will be working for me." She said and a Theresa raised her hand.

"You didn't answer why Anna, Balthus, and I can not tell anyone we are here or that I am awake."

"Same, I want answers to that as well." Anna said as she crossed her arms along with Balthus, "So what's the gizz?"

"Let's just say, Cirina wants to teach someone a lesson. One they need." Inami said and somehow, Theresa knew she was talking about Claude, "Oh, and Anna, the reason is that Anacharis had appeared in The Frost Forest looking for her." She looked at Theresa, "We need to keep her return a secret for her safety."

Anna let out a heavy sigh and nodded.

"Alright, I'll keep quiet." The woman said.

"Wait, then why am I here? I should be good to go back right?" Balthus said and Inami smirked, "I'm not?"

"Nope! Remember? You owe me two favors. The first favor was paid when you help me take Theresa. The next one, you have to work for me for the next two years. So, get used to living here." Inami said and Balthus grumbled but accepted.

It was going to be a long time.

[—-]

"I'm sorry you got dragged into this," Theresa said as she sat with Anna in the room she was given.

It was a nice room. Crimson and blue-colored blankets with a variety of patterns with warm pillows. Fancy furniture and all but the place didn't feel so...over dazzling. If anything, the room reminded her of one of the hotel rooms she stayed at a long time ago when she visited Persia.

"It's fine. I'm just glad you are okay and back. I do wish I got to properly introduce my sister earlier. Anastasia can be a handful at times." Anna yawned, "But I'll be staying here in Almyra for the next two years anyway so I don't mind. I'm still making bank thanks to the royal family buying products from me." The woman winked as she made a coin shape with her fingers.

"And Amir is fine along with the others. War hasn't been kind but somehow they are closer." Anna smiled sadly as did Theresa, "Also, Theresa...My suspicions were right, you're like Arisa and Chris. You're an Outworlder." Theresa looked away.

"There's nothing to be ashamed of. I get why you hid it. But at this point, many of us know. And but that I mean the blue lions know that Arisa is one as well as Chris. But you, well they don't." Anna said and Theresa let out a heavy sigh.

"Theresa was my name in The World of Steel. I thought I should take on that identity again for my safety." Theresa said as Anna nodded, "The same way Arisa did." Was unspoken.

"Alright. And Alexandra?" Theresa smiled softly as Anna gave her a tight hug, "It's good to have you back. I'm glad you're alive." Anna said.

"Same. I'm happy to see you two."

[—-]

"So, have you made your decision?" Inami said.

It was the morning and they were all eating breakfast.

"Yes, I have." Theresa said, "I accept." Inami nodded, "On two conditions."

"Oh?" Inami raised an eyebrow, "Go on."

"First, I want at least Jeralt Eisner and Amir Amyrillis to know that I am alive. They will keep it a secret. Lastly, a forge." Now Inami was confused by that.

"A forge? The first one I will allow but I am puzzled by the second one." Inami said then took a bite from her meal.

"I come from a family of blacksmiths and bladesmiths. I want to practice and improve on my techniques." Theresa explained and Inami thought for a moment.

"Ah!" The princess's eyes widened, "I know exactly who to introduce you to. As for your forge, consider it done. There is a closed one here in the county I rule. The blacksmith that once ran it passed away a few years ago. The place is just collecting dust. What better way to bring it back to life than to have you use it." Inami said and held out her hand, "It's a deal." And the two shook hands.

Theresa didn't know why, but she had a good feeling for some reason.

— ? -

"Anacharis we located The Arrow of Indra and Lance of Nehalennia." Myson said as he and his men walked through the desert of Almyra, "It's in one of the ancient tombs."

"Ha!" Anacharis laughed then gritted her teeth, "Good. Make sure to recover them."

"You seem to be in a foul mood. What has happened?" Myson said as the woman scoffed angrily.

"It seems not everyone that served Cirina is dead."

Chapter 95: The Sands: Part 1: Farewell Friend