"There are two people I want to introduce you to today." Martha said as Perla looked up from her pile of work, "One will be the one that will help you with your magic problem." She said, "I won't be able to introduce them to you in person because I need to check on Queen Opal today but my two students will help you." She said.
"With my work or my magic deficiency?" Perla said, the dark circles under her eyes starting to become noticeable.
"Both." Martha said as she went to her desk and sat on the edge, "The one that will be performing the technique to help you is my second apprentice. Her name is Oniyuri. I should explain to you what exactly your magic deficiency is." Marth waved her hands and made protection of a human.
"The magician deficiency unfortunately is a curse that was placed on the citizens of Gardlon by the demon they defeated. That everyone born with the blood of Gardlon will suffer a magic deficiency for the rest of their lives." Martha said as Sophia appeared, her expression, pensive.
"I remember this..." Sophia spoke as she held her chin, "It took 80 years to find a way to reverse the curse and turn it into a genetic defect." Perla's jaw dropped, "After that, the curse would eventually fade away. By age 15-18, sometimes others were late bloomers, those of Gardlon would be able to use magic normally." She said and looked at Perla, "Unfortunately that isn't the case with you."
"But why is this happening to me now?" Perla asked as Sophia let out a sigh.
"It's because your blood has returned to its original world. Your blood is trying to readjust to Elyo's magic particles and thus has triggered the reawakening of the curse. If we went with the natural method, you wouldn't be able to use magic till you were 38 years old." Perla made a face at Sophia's words, "The other method is acupuncture. You know what it is right?" She asked.
"Of course I do. I studied it for a few years. I know how to do it." Perla said as Sophia nodded in approval, "So based on this, the acupuncture method would involve putting the needles on my blocked points and possibly making an outsource of magic flow into my body to release those points." She said and Martha clapped, happy that the woman caught on quickly.
"Then what's the third method?"
"Oh, you don't need to worry about one. That one is mostly seen as a marriage ritual between a divine dragon and someone of the Lycinth clan. Spicy if you ask me~" Martha giggled as Sophia rolled her eyes, "Oh, hush you."
"Ah yes, that coming from another dragon makes sense." Sophia said and Perla looked at Martha shocked, "You're a dragon?!"
"Yes." Martha sighed, "Before you ask, only my husband, you, my two other apprentices, my children, the emblems, and my adopted mother know I am a dragon. Well...half-dragon." She said and the doctor's jaw dropped.
"Then, can you turn into one?" Perla asked and Martha sighed, nodding, "Can your children?" She shook her head, "How come?"
"My mother is human. My father is a dragon. My husband is human. I'm half-human. That makes them one-fourth dragon. They can display dragons' strength, instincts, and power, but the ability to transform is not possible due to how thin the dragon blood is. They can have like small features like scales on their cheeks, sharper teach, and instincts but the ability to turn into a dragon is no longer possible. Unless they go into extremely traumatic events, which I pray they never do, they won't be able to turn into dragons. Which...I am honestly happy." Martha smiled sadly, "They do not need to experience what I did."
Sophia understood what Martha meant. Martha let out a shuttered breath and spoke.
"Anyhow, I'll be going now. I need to see Queen Opal. Eden should be here soon to pick your up and take you to my lands. I hope you like it because that's going to be your new home!" Martha squealed, "My family will love you! Oh, they are going to be excited meeting you properly!" She said and waved goodbye, warping away.
Perla was just stunned by this as she remained where she sat and looked over to Sophia for an explanation.
"I give up at this point. Once Martha has her mind set on something, there is no going back. Also, I should tell you the news." Sophia said, "Queen Lumera is Martha's adoptive mother. No one but those she mentions earlier knows this. But she sees the queen more as an aunt than a mother. Queen Lumera's son is also Martha's biological brother. She adopted them both after the war. She was also planning to adopt their youngest sibling but after the war, the little one went missing. They are still searching for her to this day." Sophia finished explaining and let out a sigh.
"Something on your mind?" Perla said as she stood up and started to put her things away.
"Sorry, it's just...strange seeing just how happy Martha is this world is." Perla looked at her to explain, "The Martha of my world...suffered many tragedies. She lost her husband and had an estranged relationship with her cousin. She is also...very unhinged compared to this one." She explained as Perla looked at her surprised.
"Was she a dragon too?" Sophia shook her head, "No. she and I are...a different type of being called a Nightmare." Again, Perla wanted an explanation, "I'll tell you another time. Eden is here." And sure enough, the door to Martha's office opened, and in came her son along with Diamant.
"Hey!" Eden poked his head in with a grin and opened the door to allow his cousin to come in, "Hey Miss Sophia! Sorry for interrupting, but we've come to steal away miss Pearl." He said as Diamant rolled his eyes.
"Ignore what he said." The prince said, "I'll be coming along with you all. I have business in Topaz Territory." He said as Perla nodded, and went to them while Sophia disappeared into her ring.
[—-]
"Have you ever ridden a wyvern before?"
Perla gulped as two wyverns snorted where she stood. Diamant's wyvern had gray-red scales that reminded her of fiery lava, it had armor on its head and chest with the symbol of Brodia. Eden's wyvern had black scales with gold. The wyverns narrowed their eyes at her and the woman instinctively hid behind the prince, who let out a chuckle. He motioned her carefully towards his, having her extend out her hand. Perla gulped as the wyvern came closer and sniffed her hand before, purring and diving in, resting its head on her chest.
"Huh?" Left all three and soon Eden's wyvern joined, letting out happy wyvern noises as the woman scratched their heads and under chins, "Cuttteee~" Perla cooed as she continued to pet them.
"What on earth?" Eden gawked, "Poka never does that to anyone but me and Oniyuri! What the hell?" He said and snapped his fingers but the wyverns hissed at him.
"She is so kind!" Perla froze as she looked down at the wyverns who blinked, "They said this girl can see the other side." Poka said.
"You two...can talk?" Perla said and the two wyverns froze, "Oh hey. You can understand." Eden said with a smile but then, "YOU CAN UNDERSTAND THEM?!"
"Eden, an explanation." Diamant said and the redhead scratched his cheek, "Umm...looks like Pearl can understand animals like me and my siblings." He said and the prince was shocked by the revaluation, "So she can see those of the other side."
"Sophia, an explanation please!" Perla screeched and all the emblem did was chuckle.
"Never mind that, you all needed to head out already. Now off you go."
[—]
It had been two weeks since Lumera met Miguel and the young man had yet to appear. A sigh left the woman's lips as she made her way to the knight's training area where she would join Vander, Framme, and Clanne. The knight's recruitments have been delayed long enough. The woman arrived at the training field where young men and women were lined up. All were wearing their helmets to make it a fair game. The queen went to sit on the balcony where the twins were. They looked at her, worried but the queen put on a smile as they turned to look at the field.
"Formation!" Vander yelled out as the recruits did what they were told, "We'll be having an endurance exam today. We shall be testing your mantle. We will start with 10 laps around the field. Go!" He yelled as groans were heard from some but they went and did it anyway.
A small chuckle left Lumera's lips as she and the twins watched but as time went by, they noticed a soldier was keeping up. If anything, about half the recruits, were dropping tired on the ground but the man kept going. He was now on his eighth lap with a few others while the rest were behind. Vander had his arms crossed, eyes narrowed with a nod of approval as the mystery knight continued. Two minutes later and the final two laps were done. The knight came in first and went to sit down to rest, waiting for the rest to finish. Time was up and the knight went to help out a few others to finish before returning his spot.
"Not bad," Vander said to the knight who nodded.
Once everyone had their break, it was time for a sparring match. The recruits were divided into groups based on their preferred weapon of choice. Some chose swords, other lances, bows, and tomes, but the knight was part of the group that chose to fight with gauntlets. Vander watched carefully, judging equally. Many of the recruits were required to have at least basic knowledge of how to use their chosen weapons. They did, which he was grateful for. Much improvement was ne—
"AAAAHHHHHH!"
THUMP!
And Vander raised an eyebrow as he turned, seeing one of the recruits was sent flying into a haystack by his opponent.
"Sorry!" Again, it was the mysterious knight that went running towards the man he sent flying and helped him get back up.
"How interesting." Queen Lumera muttered, "The knight there is an experienced close combat fighter. So far he has been the only one that has been showing the best endurance and physical capabilities. Hmmm..." she turned to the twins, "how would you two feel about having another person join the stewards?" The twin's eyes began sparkling, "I will take that as a yes."
Back to the recruits, the final exam was physical endurance. Push-ups, running more laps, and most of all...groans were heard when Vander said he was having them do pull-ups. The first few victims couldn't even raise their bodies past the poll, and a few others fell. The next group managed but only for a few seconds. Person after person, Vander was taking notes, he was a little disappointed that only a few people were passing. Next was the mysterious knight. It was a tradition for the knights to count out loud when the recruits would do pull-ups.
"One! Two! Three! Four!" The cheers were getting louder, "FIVE! SIX!" Vander couldn't help but be shocked at the man's strength, "KEEP GOING! SEVEN! EIGHT!" Louder the cheers, "NINE! TEN! YEEEAAAHHHHH!" The recruits broke into roars as the knights landed and collapsed on the ground but were quickly picked up by the others, raising him in the air.
Vander couldn't help but chuckle as the recruits cheered. He looked up to the balcony to see Queen Lumera nodding.
"Looks like we'll be having someone new joins us."
[—-]
"Step forward!" Vander yelled as six knights lined up, "You six have been chosen due to your wits, talent, and endurance. You all have done well. The rest of you will begin training tomorrow morning! Do not be late!" The older knight said and the resting of the remaining recruits cheered, "Before this is over, we have a special announcement." Vander said as whispers were heard among everyone.
Gasps were heard and everyone quickly stood straight as Queen Lumera walked onto the field. The queen smiled brightly and spoke as the twins stood beside her.
"Everyone, thank you all for participating in the knight's recruitment. But today is a special occasion. I chose to watch today because of these six, one will be chosen to join the Steward of the Dragons and will become another apprentice to Sir Vander." Queen Lumera as the recruits began muttering and whispering to each other.
Queen Lumera smiled and walked till she stopped at the end in front of the knight that showed the best results.
"Young man, you have shown endurance, discipline, strength, and kindness through these trials today. Thus, I have chosen you to join The Stewards of the Dragon." Lumera said as the knight was silent, "Please, remove your helmet and say your name." She said and the knight nodded.
The knight went on to remove his helmet, letting out deep breaths as he held it under his arm. The queen, Vander's and the twin's eyes went wide seeing someone they did not expect. Placing his hand over his chest, posture straight, the man spoke loudly, "Miguel Lycinth Sanchez Delgado! It's an honor, your majesty!" Miguel said and Lumera smiled, nodding.
"Welcome, Miguel!"
[—-]
The knight's dining hall was filled with people from all walks of life, but the beer and ale barrels were uncorked, ready to be empty. Food, drinks, and the spirits to celebrate were high. The recruits could now take off their helmets and meet each other properly. Some people were drinking and dancing, some even got into arm wrestling matches. Miguel sat with a mug of ale, nearly spitting the damn thing out. He heard stories of medieval alcohol being stronger than modern ones but god damn!
"FUCK!" The man coughed and looked at the liquid shocked, "This shit is strong!" He said as the burning sensation died down.
"You think that is strong?" One man said with a chuckle, "Nah, Solm's and Brodia's wine is much stronger but it goes down nice and smooth. Names Timothy, by the way. Nice to meet you." Miguel shook hands with him.
"Nice to meet you." Miguel said, "What's your story for joining the knights?"
"I'm a farmer's son. I wanted to see more of the world. Figured joining the knights was good to start." Timothy said as he took a swing from his mug, "And you? What's a guy like you doing over here?"
"Not much of a tale but, I'm searching for sisters. They've gone missing after we went through a terrible accident." Miguel said and Timothy looked at him sadly.
"Hope you find them." Timothy's said, "Now, LET THE PARTY BEGIN!"
"WHOOOAAAAA!"
It had been a long time since Miguel was able to celebrate and have a good time.
- The next day -
Bright and early Miguel woke and made his way to the castle. His case was strapped and over his shoulder, as he arrived at the gates. They're waiting for him, were two knights he did not recognize. But they had a...lifeless feel to them. Their eyes were void of emotions and he noticed their hair color and eyes were the same as Lumera's.
"Are you Miguel?" The female one spoke in a lifeless tone as he nodded, "Follow us." The male said that he did.
The walkthrough of Lythos Castle was nice. Its walls were a marble white and its pillars and architecture reminded him of Greek and religious buildings. The view was a nice one, he could see the city from the hall they walked through. Soon, they arrived at the garden where Lumera, Vander, Framme, and Clanne were waiting for him. Lumera nodded to the knights, dismissing them. The man walked up to the group and bowed politely to the queen.
"It's...been a while, Queen Lumera," Miguel said as the woman nodded.
"It is great to see you, Miguel. I know this...is sudden but why did you take the knight's test? You could have just come to me or Vander." She said and Miguel made an uncomfortable yet hesitant expression.
"I just felt..." Miguel sighed and looked at Lumera, "I just felt it would be wrong if I didn't take the test like the others. Also, I'm still hesitant about being here." He explained as Lumera smiled sadly, understanding where the man was coming from.
"I'm...still trying to process everything that I learned but...I would like to get to know you. I would like to know about my family's past. So, if it's okay with you, I'll be part of your knights. If you'll have me that is." He said and before he knew it, the twins broke into cheers.
"We would love to have you!" The twins squealed, "Oh, it's been so long since we've had someone else join us!" Framme jumped excitedly, "If you need help with magic, I will be happy to teach you! Oh! You can tell us about your world!" He said with a bright grin.
"Arf!"
Miguel looked down at his legs and saw this...plushie blue-like creature with small blue eyes and a cute red scarf, happily barking at him. It then jumped and pounced in his arms. The puppy? barked happily.
"Why does this thing look like the plushie Nanami had recently made?" He thought as he stared at it.
"Oh! Sommie, when did you get here?!" Lumera gasped as she walked up and the little dog barked happily but then licked Miguel's right hand, where he wore the ring.
Sitonia in the ring let out a screech because of the dog licking her. She let out a groan and glared, making the puppy yip, and hide its face in Miguel's chest.
"Whoa. What's wrong?" Miguel said and suddenly in a flash of light, a blue-haired man dressed in regal white clothing, surrounded by some sort of blue aura, appeared next to Lumera, scaring everyone but the queen and Sommie.
"Wait...is that an Emblem?" Clanne gasped as Framme awed along with Vander, "An Emblem of legends..." the knight awed as Lumera smiled softly.
"Apologies for suddenly appearing." Sigurd said, "I have not met you all but Lumera has spoken to me about you. My name is Sigurd, and it's a pleasure to meet you all. And..." he turned to look at Miguel, his eyes softening, "You...look like Ermos when he was your age. It is an honor to meet you." He said.
"I'm sorry...but...what are you? I have never heard of...an Emblem? What is it?" Miguel said as Lumera let out a small sigh.
Ermos and Maria truly said nothing. Perhaps it was because there was still that small risk of danger, so they didn't want to take any chances. Lumera smiled softly and held out her hand to Vander as she kept her eyes on Miguel.
"Vander, Clanne, Framme will show you around first. I want you to get to know this place first and be informed of your duties as a Dragon Steward. Once that is done, the twins will show you your room. Later on, we can all eat together and speak." She said as the man nodded, "But before you leave, there is...a question I have been meaning to ask you."
Miguel looked at her puzzled.
"The ring on your right hand, where did you get it?" Lumera asked and Miguel looked at his hand.
"Honestly...I have no idea." He said as looked back at the queen and Sigurd, "I just woke up with it." He said, "I have never seen a ring like this before."
"Have you noticed any strange chances? Particularly with your strength, body, even appetite?" Lumera asked and Miguel thought for a moment before his eyes widened a bit.
"I can hold my breath underwater for hours at most now. And I can see underwater as well." He said that it was during his trip to Lythos he noticed the chances.
"I thought so." Lumera said and had him hold out his hand, "You asked what an Emblem is. An Emblem is a magical ring that hosts the spirit of a hero from another world. They were created by a powerful individual who worked beside the Divine Dragons. These rings called upon the aid of heroes from other worlds to help us fight off forces of evil. And the ring on your finger," Miguel looked down at his hand, "is an Emblem. The Ring of The Silent Seer, Emblem of Sentience, Sitonia." She said and Miguel along with the others except Sigurd looked at her shocked.
"Sitonia's Ring was believed to have disappeared after her wielder left Elyos, your great-grandmother, Maria. But," Sigurd's eyebrows creased, "if Sitonia is here, then that means Sophia, Edith, and Arisa are as well." He said as Lumera looked at the knight worried.
Miguel looked at the ring in shock. He wondered where the ring came from but...wait, now that he thought back, Veyle asked if the ring was an Emblem. That meant she knew what it was. But...why would he have such a ring? Was there truly a person there?
"May I see the ring?" Lumera said and he nodded, taking it off and handing it to her.
Lumera took a step back and took a deep breath. Unlike the original 12 Emblem Rings, Outrealm Rings use a combination of incantations and prayer. The power of incantations to call forth the names of the spirit and prayer to allows them to have their own will. She let out a shuttered breath as she the ring on her left hand and closed her eyes.
"Guide us, Emblem of Sentience!" Lumera said and the ring began to glow brightly.
Water droplets formed in the air and the wind began to swirl violently. Colors of gray, blue, and red surrounded Lumera's hand, but suddenly, purple crackling and lightning came from the ring. Lumera was shocked by the sudden thing and then...
"AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
A blood-curdling scream came from the ring and a magic circle appeared above it and soon, purple chains were tied around it. The wave of power exploded and sent everyone flying back. But the power was enough to violently awaken the heroes in the other rings that were in the vault, including the ring of the hand young man that slept. The spirit in his ring rapidly blinked and manifested physically, looking at his hands and then around the room before looking back to see the young man fast asleep.
"Why am I...?"
And then he heard it. The blood-curdling scream echoed through the entire castle yet even though he was in the skies, he could hear it. Back at the castle, Miguel was stunned by the sudden event. When the wave of light exploded, for a moment, images played before his eyes. The image of a woman, her back turned to him. Her hair was aquamarine blue, short, and choppy, her hand reaching out to something and then everything disappeared. Miguel groaned as he struggled to stand up, the explosion of energy sent him flying to some sort of wall and his back hit his case. He coughed and saw Vander had managed to get up on time, running to Lumera to make sure she was alright.
"W-What was that?" Framme trembled as she struggled to get up and Miguel quickly went to help her and Clanne.
"Lumera, are you alright?!" Sigurd said as he appeared, Vander helping the queen up.
"I-I'm alright." The queen assured them despite her hair looking like she was caught in an explosion, "I'm...more worried about Sitonia." She said as they looked down to the floor where the ring was, wrapped in some sort of purple chain, "I don't understand...What is this?"
Then, the most unexpected things happened. As Miguel went to pick it up, the gem of the ring began to glow and blink rapidly. Miguel raised and eyebrow then narrowed his eyes as he studied the blinking lights of the ring.
"Wait..." Miguel said and again the ring started blinking, "That's Morse code." He said and everyone looked at him confused, "It's a code that exists in my world. In the military, we would use it to communicate in secret if we did not want an enemy to detect us. The ring is trying to communicate to you." He said and Lumera looked back at it, shocked.
The ring again was blinking in different light patterns and sure enough, it confirmed Miguel's suspicions.
"Emblem Sitonia, can you hear us?" Lumera said and the flickering started again.
"...It says yes."
"You can understand what is being said?" Lumera asked and the man nodded.
"I need paper and a pencil."
[—-]
Lumera watched nervously as the young man was sitting at a table with a pencil and paper. She along with Vander, Clanne, and Franne watch intensely. Sigurd excused himself because he sensed the other Emblems had awakened and were most likely confused about why. Lumera was shocked by this and told him to inform them that everything was alright. The rest watched as the young man wrote a series of lines and dots on the paper and above it, words. While they could not read them, they looked similar to the writing of The Ring of The Instructor. Miguel was whispering to himself as he wrote and suddenly with his free hand, made a series of taps with his fingers.
"S...e..a...l...e...d..." They heard Miguel whisper and look back at the ring, which was blinking again, "Others...awake..." the man slammed the pen down and stood up, after picking up the ring, going back to the group.
"I finished deciphering." He said and Lumera nodded for him to continue, "The rings said that "I am sealed. To prevent corruption from infecting me. The other three have been awakening. Find them." He said and Lumera looked worried.
"I see. Thank you so much, Miguel. We would have had no idea what to do if you were not here. Perhaps it was fate that we met." Lumera smiled softly and Miguel looked hesitant.
"It's best for now we stop. Please rest. It looks like it had been quite a while since you arrived." Vander suggested and sure enough, because of them talking so much, the hours had gone by fast, "Miguel, we'll show you to your room. Queen Lumera, may we go to The Sommiel?" He said and the Queen nodded, her hair fixed now.
"Of course! The warping tile should be set for you now. Just head to the location I told you and it will warp you there." Lumera said as Sommie barked and followed after the group.
Miguel was hesitant and stopped looking back at her, but the queen nodded, reassuring him that everything was alright. Once, they were gone, Lumera quickly picked up Sitonia's ring and head swiftly to the ring vault room.
[—-]
"What do you mean it was Sitonia that awaken all of us?!"
Sigurd cringed at Lucina's voice coming from her ring while Emblem Ephraim spoke from his ring.
"Sitonia's power should not be able to awaken us like this. While we may be able to talk, we have no means of manifesting like Sigurd unless Queen Lumera or her son summons us. What I don't understand is how exactly she awaken us." Ephraim said in a confused tone as the others agreed, "Let alone, how is she here? I thought she and the others faded away after the others disappeared." Emblem Erika said.
"Unless we ask Sitonia, we won't have an answer." Byelth's voice rang from his altar, "What exactly happened Sigurd?"
"Uncle..." Leif said and Sigurd sighed but before he could say anything, he turned hearing footsteps and the others became silent.
If they were all present, they would have politely bowed in the presence of Queen Lumera. The queen let out a long sigh as she went to the center of the vault, and made Sitonia's ring float in her hands.
"It is good to hear you all again. I wish we all could have met under better circumstances but I know you all have many questions. For now, we have...terrible news." Lumera said as the chains around Sitonia showed themselves again.
Gasps were heard from those that recognize the chains as a grave expression formed on Lumera's face.
"The Seal of Stars was placed on Sitonia by Maria."
- Brodia : Minio Avis -
Brodia's second biggest city, Minio Avis was built a bit similar to the capital but more of its buildings were adapted to the rugged mountain terrain. Buildings are carved into the mountains and structures are built to support the place. It reminded Perla of a red sandstone Babylonian city. But some fields were bright green up above and goats and sheep grazed on the grass. But Perla could also spot vultures and wyverns, the pigeons and birds weren't bothered by them. Probably because they mostly found safety in the buildings. But what caught Perla's attention was that at the center of the city was a giant dragon statue. As well as the giant crimson and a pink-leafed tree that grew over the statue. And then the wind blew, reminding her that she was over 100 feet in the air. The woman held on tightly to the one she was riding with, and that was Diamant.
"Ow." The prince said and Perla muttered a sorry, "It's alright! This must be your first time riding a wyvern, correct?"
"Yes." Perla whimpered and managed to open one eye, "I don't like heights!" She said as the prince looked at her worried.
"But I have to ask, what is that!" she pointed down to the ground, "dragon statue and huge tree?!" She said.
"Ahh, that statue." Eden said from his wyvern, he was flying nearby, "Well, 30 years ago, a group of extremist and radical worshipers of The Fell Dragon and some sort of demon they claim, were on the verge of sacrificing the entire city in an attempt to revive them. The king of that time, our grandfather, King Alexandrite, was here. When all seemed lost after fighting, a dragon descended from the sky. The dragon chanted a spell and warped everyone out of the city but themselves. From the mountains, the king and his people could only see lights and hear the battles of explosions raging on. Suddenly, a bright light engulfed the place and when it was gone, the extremest were defeated and wiped out. But the dragon's body lay there..." Eden said in a sad tone as Diamant nodded.
"The people of this city realized the dragon sacrificed itself to destroy those evil mages but also give life to the land we are in now. When our grandfather and people returned, they arrived at the moment the dragon spoke its last words." He said, "May my power and life heal your pain. May my life bring peace and prosperity to this land. The dragon said its last words and shattered to pieces before them all." Diamant sighed, "Our fathers were there when the event happened. It's still a story told today." The prince said as he looked down at the dragon statue, "Queen Lumera was informed of what happened and helped arrange a funeral for the dragon. In honor of them, a statue was built. As for the giant tree, they say a giant holy tree grows where a dragon lays to rest. The tree is carefully taken care of by the people here." He said and looked on ahead, "We should be arriving at your manor, Eden. I wonder how the kids are."
"The little ones are all going to pounce on you and you know that." Eden grinned as his cousin chuckled, "Get ready to meet the kids. Morgana is the youngest. She's about five years old. James is seven and Noa is ten. Brats they are but they are my brats and I love them." He said, "Diamant, head to the Magic Tower. I'm gonna go see my siblings." He said.
"You sure?" Dimant said, "You know what happened last time you arrived and didn't go see your wife." He said as his cousin let out a nervous laugh, "Okay, your funeral."
"Alright, I'm going!"
[—-]
Brodia's Magic tower was...a literal tower. Its structure reminded Perla of the leaning tower of Pisa, minus the leaning part. But the magic tower had another purpose. It was to keep watch for incoming enemies from all directions. Built-in the northwest by the original mage family that used to serve the royal family one thousand years ago, mages and non-humans seek asylum from prosecution. 300 years ago before the overthrowing of the original royal family, the court mages warned them that if they did not change their ways, doom will fall onto them. This angered the king and he ordered their execution.
It was the last straw and it led to the uprising of the people of Brodia, raising their weapons. They overthrew the old family, the children of the royal family disappeared, and the survivors of the mage family also disappeared. Then, twenty years ago, a new mage rose, blessed by the divine dragon that saved the land, they reopened the tower and continued its original purpose. And that mage was Martha. Lumera appointed her as the new mage of the Magic Tower and since then, Martha has welcomed anyone from all walks of life, regardless of what nation they come from.
The inside of the tower was majestic. Men, women, children, and non-humans were all around, walking, flying, floating, and dressed in black or white uniforms with different badges to show their fields do study. Books were floating and even strange creatures flying around.
"Incredible," Perla said as Eden chuckled, "I only read about places like this in fantasy books. To think they exist." She said as Diamant smiled but froze at the sight of a mage casting a fire spell.
Perla noticed how the man froze and looked over in the direction he was looking. Her gaze became half-lidded seeing the fire spell being cast. She walked up to him, and tapped his shoulder, making him jump. She smiled meekly, nudging her head for him to follow her.
It was a soft approach but it helped. Eden was watching the interaction, a small smile on his face as he made his way to the stairs but stopped when he sensed a familiar presence. He turned to look up and his smile became blissful as he held out his arms but the owner of that presence looked at him with a blank face. But they jumped onto his arms, hugging him tightly.
"Welcome back..." A soft-spoken voice, with a smooth yet a bit toneless, spoke as he rested his chin on their head and they rested their ear on his chest, "I missed you."
"My lovely wife, I'm back." The man hummed in bliss as he embraced her, "We should head up."
"Hmm..."
[—]
Lady Oniyuri was a beautiful woman with long curled midnight purple-blue hair in a bun, curls framing her face, her eyes remained closed, and wore a light blue veil that covered half of her face. She had an aura of elegance and calmness surrounding her. She wore an elegant dark blue Victorian-styled coat with a ruffled tails coat, but the skirt of it was made knee length, she wore fishnet tights, black boots with low heels, and wore jade anklets. She also wore a crescent moon-shaped headpiece, and a light touch of blue pigment on her lips. She had a calm and mysterious aura. Her voice was soft and meek, yet there was authority, but also somewhat emotionless.
"She..." Oniyuri looked to her husband, "is of the Lycinth clan...like your mother?" She asked and Eden nodded.
Her eyebrows creased a bit, and Eden spoke.
"She didn't know about her origins. She only just found out a few weeks ago." Eden said and the woman looked back to Perla.
Perla felt like she was being judged as the 5'6 woman looked down at her. It hurt that they were the same age and she was taller than her. She was a milf...
"I see..." Oniyuri took a deep breath and looked back at Perla with a small smile on her lips.
"It is nice to meet you, Perla. I am Oniyuri," she placed her left hand over the right side of her chest and slightly dipped her head, "I am Eden's wife and Martha's second apprentice.
They had gone up to the very top floor that was Oniyuri's office.
"It's nice to meet you." Perla bowed politely back as she stood next to Diamant, "Martha spoke to me a bit about you. She told me you can help me with my magic deficiency." She said as the woman began to unbutton her coat but stopped when she felt a hand on her shoulder.
"Um...cough! Perhaps wait till Eden and I have left?" Diamant said as the woman blinked, while Oniyuri was quick to notice the prince's red ears.
"I'm just taking off my coat. I don't see anything wrong." Perla looked at him puzzled, "Besides, I'm wearing a shirt underneath." She said and proceeded to continue to unbutton but Diamant quickly excused himself and Eden laughed as he waved and followed, closing and locking the door.
"...I'm guessing..." Perla turned to Oniyuri whose lips were wavering, "in your world, it's...different?" She said and Perla looked at her confused, "You see, taking off your coat like that is a bit... un-modest in this world." She said and Perla understood.
"Oohh..." Perla said and looked at the door, "It's considered outdated in my world." She said and finally fully removed her coat.
Oniyuri snorted and had Perla go to the bed that was set up. The woman pulled the curtains and then had Perla strip to her bra and undergarments. The blue-haired woman then took out a small bento box-size case with needles and a small wire with little clips.
"This is going to take a while so I told Eden to walk around town with Diamant or to go see his siblings." Oniyuri said and Perla lay on the bed and gulped as the first needle was inserted into her shoulder, "Have gone through something like this before?"
"Yes. I had a hobby of studying ancient medical methods in my world." Perla said and Oniyuri arched an eyebrow.
"I have been studying the books Martha has had you write and I must say, the amount of medical knowledge you know is far beyond what is known here. Not to also mention your medical methods are far more advanced. I do hope in the future we can work together and you teach me your methods." Oniyuri said and started to insert more needles.
After 10 minutes, the body facing the ceiling all had needles. Oniyuri connected the wires.
"This might hurt a little," Oniyuri said and began to chant a spell, some of her magic began to pour slowly into the wires.
They connected and the magic began to enter Perla's body. Her veins began to show and Perla could see the blocked points become visible. They were like blood clots in her body, blocking the magic veins and preventing magic from flowing properly in her body. There was a sting at first and then the pain came. Perla gritted her teeth, hands balled to fists as she clench her jaw. She watched as the blockades began to break down, the jolts of pain brought tears to her eyes but she kept holding on. She noticed that Oniyuri never once opened her eyes, she kept them closed the whole time, she wondered if the woman could see but decided to not ask. Oniyuri continued the process the final blockade was gone. Perla whimpered and panted as the other woman waited for a bit before she began to remove the needles.
"You did well." Oniyuri said and helped the woman sit up, "Try casting a small fire spell." Perla nodded and raised her hand.
"Fire." She whispered, WHOOOSSSSHHH!
Oniyuri's eyes snapped open, turning wide as saucers as she saw the giant blue flame that exploded out of the woman's hand. Thankfully, Perla did not see her expression and quickly closed her eyes as she had Perla close her hand. The two women looked up to the ceiling and Perla cringed seeing the black soot on the bricks, "Sorry..."
"It's alright." Oniyuri said and motioned to change back into her clothing, "But it's a good sign. It means you have the potential to be a great mage who specializes in fire and healing magic." She said with a small smile as she waved her hand and cleaned the soot, "I think I'm more surprised by the fact that you can cast magic without a tome or a catalyst." She said as the doctor looked at her confused.
"Is it...not possible to cast magic with them?" She asked and Oniyuri shook her head.
"No, it is not that. It's just that it's very difficult. Tomes, catalysts, wands, and other magic tools serve as a medium to help us control and channel our magic without being endangered. Those who can cast magic without it are extremely powerful mages but even they face dangers. Martha can cast magic without her staff but she uses it as a medium to help her have control of her power. Martha tends to not be able to control her magic output and nearly set the kitchen on fire in the past. This is a story she told me." Oniyuri explained and reached into her sleeve, taking out a wand.
"This is my wand. Made of a blue elder wood, fourteen inches. It has a core made of fairy wings, Wendigo fang, and a horned serpent horn, the handle is made of blue lapis and the end had torn engravings." Oniyuri explained, "She is one of a kind. This wand was made specifically for me because I am a fairy doctor." She said and Perla looked at her confused.
"Fairy doctor..." Perla muttered, "If I remember correctly...it's someone who came to see and communicate with the supernatural and see things others can not. As well as communicate with animals." She said and the blue-haired woman nodded.
"Correct. We also have a strong affinity to earth magic and nature." Oniyuri said, "My husband told me that you just recently learn you can understand what animals are saying." The doctor nodded, "Good. Now that you are better, I will take you shopping in the magic district. We have a personal magic tool maker who can help you choose or create a custom magic medium for you." She said with a smile, "And I invited a few friends to join us." She and Perla looked at her confused.
"Who?"
[—-]
"It's time to go shopping!"
Citrinne squealed excitedly as poor Alcryst got dragged to the city as well as Jade and Amber were also present along with Diamant and Eden. And with them, three kids and another adult man. The little girl with hair colors like Alcryst and pink eyes was Noa. The little boy with pink hair and eyes were James, and the girl with pint ails and streaks of red and black was Morgana. All three of them looked beyond excited.
"Hello, I am Ethan. Martha's first apprentice and Shibra's husband." Ethan was a tall 5'7 foot man with mid-waist white hair and wore a black and green military uniform with a tome strapped onto his belt.
He had fair skin and dark purple eyes.
"My wife would have been here but she is helping Master with something important. Anyhow, I hope we get along." Ethan said and Perla nodded.
"We'll be watching the kids." Oniyuri said as the two took Noa's and Morgan's hands, "The rest of you go enjoy the time. Citrine and Edith will help you choose your magic medium. Enjoy." She said as Eden pick up the third kid and they waved goodbye.
"You know, it's been a while since I've come here. I think this be a good opportunity for us to stock up on our supplies!" Amber said as the others agreed.
"Of course. And you men!" Citrinne pushed Alcryst to them, "But Ethan," pulled the man that brought the children, "take care you—!"
"Just come with us. Please." Perla said as she looked at the three with pleading eyes while Citrinne had a look of betrayal but Perla's puppy eyes made her give up and the remaining three came.
Shopping was going to be interesting.
—- Solm —
"Try a spell."
Nanami gulped and cupped her hands, gritting her teeth as she closed her eyes. She thought back to Arisa's lessons and began to visualize a sphere in her hand. She imagine it glowing and crackling and then right at that moment, Timerra and Fogado walked into the magic lab.
"Hey, Rumba! H—"
SSSSPPPRRREEEEEE!
Rumba's eyes shot wide open along with everyone in the room as lightning exploded from Nanami's hands. Even the woman was beyond shock and before she knew it, Rumba had quickly closed her hands, panting. Everyone was stunned to silence by what had just happened, even Nanami. Arisa herself was beyond shocked as well, watching from the ring. The woman slowly looked up to the ceiling, seeing it burned from the earlier spell.
"Sorry..." the woman whispered as Rumba let out a sigh, placing his left hand on his forehead and the other on his hip.
"No. It's fine. This is just the result of you using magic properly for the first time." Rumba said, "It'll be about two weeks till your body can properly regulate magic without..." he looked up the roof, "that happening."
"Uh..." Nanami looked at the man as he looked back at her, "how much for the damages?"
"Whoa! That was impressive!" The two turned to look at the door, Nanami's eyes widening seeing the young man next to Timerra, she recognized him, it was Fogado.
The man winked at her but all Nanami did was swat away the flirty heart that was sent her way. The prince had to blink multiple times while his sister snorted. Rumba just rolled his eyes.
"Okay..." Fogado scratched his cheek, "But, back to the topic, I've never seen anyone with such powerful lightning magic! Interested in signing up to be Rumba's apprentice?" He said with a wink.
"Rumba? Who is that?" Nanami said and the entire room went silent.
The people of the magic lab's jaws dropped or looked at her shocked. Fogado and Timerra just looked at the woman with wide eyes as Rumba's face went blank. EVERYONE in all of Elyos knew the names of the Court Mages of each nation and what they looked like because once a year they would plan a date to all meet in Lythos to speak with Queen Lumera. Of course, this hasn't happened now for seven years because of the death of Queen Rose and because Elusia cut contact with everyone. So hearing and seeing some that legitimately did not know who Rumba is...quite shocking.
Arisa let out a silent shriek and quickly spoke in the woman's mind.
"He's Solm's Court mage! The man before you is Solm's court mage!" Arisa screeched and Nanami's eyes went wide and looked back at the mage, "But you never told me what he looks like!" Nanami shot back to the woman.
"Huh." Rumba crossed his arms and the woman felt small at the man's narrowed eyes, "Everyone but Fogado and Timerra, and you. Out. Now." The man said and everyone scurried out.
The silence between everyone felt suffocating and Nanami was already searching for ways to escape. She spotted an open window and she would jump out of it if she needs to.
"You're not from Solm, aren't you?" Rumba's voice rumbled as the woman gulped, "Only those...of the Lycinth Clan, have magic deficiencies. I never thought I see a pure-blooded member of my clan." He said and Nanami blinked multiple times.
"I'm sorry but what are you talking about? Um...yes Lycinth is my last name but that is it. Yes, I am not from Solm. I am a mercenary who is traveling around Elyos I'm searching for my siblings." Nanami said and Rumba gritted his teeth.
"Lies!" The man barked, making Nanami flinch, "How dare you lie that you are not familiar with the clan?! I can recognize anyone of the Lycinth Clan immediately!" The man yelled and Nanami was starting to become terrified.
"I don't know what you are talking about!" The woman said, "Yes, I know my last name is Lycinth! And what do you mean clan?! What do you mean we are of the same clan?! Do you know my grandfather or something because that is impossible!" the woman yelled back, clearly also starting to get angry.
Crack...
Timerra turned and saw one of the flasks on the table crack. That was not a good sign.
"Alright, calm down everyone!" Timerra said and walked up, stepping between the two and turning to face the mage, "Rumba, it's clear she doesn't know what you are talking about. Just saying she is lying isn't helping! You need to speak clearly." The girl said firmly, showing her authority as the future queen of Solm, "Not only that, yelling is not going to help you."
Rumba clicked his teeth, turning away.
"At least prop—Where are you going?" Fogado said and the trio turned to see Nanami at the edge of the window, ready to jump out.
Nanami let out a small whimper and got down, "I want to leave...I don't feel safe. Especially after getting yelled at." She said and Timerra glared at the court mage.
"I'm telling mom." Timerra said and Rumba just looked away, "Fogado can you escort her out?"
"Sure." Fogado said and went up to Nanami, "This way, please. I'll take you out." He said and Nanami nodded, following, and glanced back to Rumba.
For a moment, her eyes became void of emotions before turning back to Fogado, leaving with him.
Once they were gone, Timerra turned to Rumba, angry.
"What were you thinking?! Claiming that she is lying that she is not from the Lycinth Clan?! Saying she is hiding it?! You saw her reaction! She doesn't know!" Timerra said as she pointed at the door.
"Well, clearly she is lying!" Rumba shot back, also pointing at the door, "That girl has the same genetic defect that every one of the Lycinth Clan has! Tell me how I am blind?! And you know what else!" The man raised his necklace, a blue gem, "The Shard of The Dragon Crystal reacted to her! And she claims she does not know!" He said with a huff, "A pure-blooded Lycinth claiming she does not know what her clan name means!"
"Did it ever occur to you that maybe! Her family hid her lineage from her?!" Timerra said and Rumba became stiff, "You know very well that the fanatics of The Fell Dragon and The Void Demon hunt down your people and kill them. If she really is who you say she is, then it would make sense that she has absolutely no idea of her identity. It was hidden for a reason." She said and Rumba looked down to the ground in shame.
He and his family had to hide their entire lives from the eyes of the public. They lived in isolation in the mountains of Solm beside the Laguz and the Kurosawa clan. His family is alive and safe thankfully, under the protection of Queen Lumera. Eventually, when it was discovered he had a connection to Solm's Dragon Crystal, he was chosen as the next Court Mage of Solm by his master, who was the mage before him. He was taught everything about the history of his people as well as given the location of the Emblem his family has protected over the years. He was taught how to communicate with the supernatural of the desert, the Pari specifically, and Djiin.
He was also trained in the magic and sword arts. Rumba pinched the bridge of his nose and looked at the princess, "What did Fogado mean about her signing up to be my apprentice?"
"She's the girl I was recommending." Timerra said and Rumba let out a laugh, "That's the laugh of regret."
"I'm pretty sure I gave her a bad impression."
[—]
"Look!" Fogado clapped his hands together and bowed, "I'm sorry about Rumba! I've never seen him so angry before." He said as Nanami blew a sting of hair off her face.
"We'll let the guy cool down. Hopefully, I get an apology." She said and faced the prince, "Prince Fogado, thank you. And I apologize for causing a scene." She politely bowed her head.
"Hey, it's alright. You had every reason to be angry." The young man said, "Though, I'm surprised you recognized me. I hadn't even introduced myself yet." Ah, she slipped, "And I'm pretty sure you recognize my sister too."
"Lady Timerra has been coming to my food stall for a week now. I've gotten to know her, Merrin, and Panette." She said with a small smile on her face.
It's true. Timerra had been coming to her food stall all week.
- Flashback -
Timerra had been coming every day to her stall during her last closing hour. Thankfully it was the most relaxed and chilled time. She had brought Merrin and Panette along as well, introducing Nanami to them and talking about the foods she made. While Nanami mentally choked, the craving to get to know the cast of Engage won her over. She started to get to know them.
"Kyyyyyuuuuuu!" Panette cooed in bliss as she took another bite of the dessert Nanami made for them, "Oh this flan is delicious! And with a cup of iced latte is the best!" Yes, Nanami added iced lattes to her menu.
"How is it that you're able to study, have a small business, and even go training? How do you do it?" Merrin said as she gave a chicken thigh to her wolf.
"Time management." Nanami said, "I was studying to be a chef before I became a mercenary. Worked a part-time job at a bakery before things took a turn. One of my other jobs was writing novels." She said as she started packing up.
"Oh? What sort of novels?" Timerra said and Nanami quickly look left and right then behind her before she leaned in to whisper to them, "Erotic novels." Her cheeks turned red as the three women gasped, covering their mouths, "But I would also write stories for kids and teens. So, I do a lot." She said and continued packing.
"Well!" Timerra clapped her hands together, "I have an offer for you!" Nanami looked at her puzzled, "Oh, this food is delicious~ Oh so divine! Nanami will you become my cook?!~" Timerra sang, but it felt as if someone dragged down their nails on a chalkboard to Nanami's ears.
But right now, she was being asked if she wanted to be the princess's cook. Nanami decided to list the pros and cons of such an offer. The pros, she will be paid, have a decent place to live, and have enough money to travel to keep searching for her siblings. Lastly, Timerra and Fogado are amazing people. She could use their connections to locate her siblings. Plus, Merrin and Panette were cool people.
The cons: she'll have to interact with the rest of the main cast and chances she'll be dragged into the war will skyrocket. She could end up dead or in the worst case scenario, be targeted by the corrupted!
Nanami isn't a fighter or soldier like her brother. She is not a medic like her sister. She's fucken novel writer who had a part-time job in a bakery and restaurant! Sure, she knows how to make a bomb using chlorine due to her researching stuff for writing but that wouldn't save her in the world of Fire Emblem. Maybe her basic knowledge of chemistry thanks to her chemistry class will but that was about it!
"I...I...can I think about it?" Nanami said and Timerra looked at her sadly but nodded.
"Okay..." The princess said, "But!" She quickly perked up, "I gave my mom the flan you made for me a few ago!" Nanami felt her life flashing before her eyes.
"O-Oh, what did she say?"
"SHE LOVES IT~" Timerra squealed, "But think about it, please. And if you accept, look for Merrin or Panatte." She said as Nanami nodded.
"I'm usually at the stables so you can find me there." Merrin said, "As for me, I am usually either in the training ground of the palace or you can find me in the library." Panette said.
"As for me, just give a letter to one of the place guards. You'll see me soon." Timerra grinned.
The girls waved goodbye and left. Nanami finished packing up the rest and had her horses pull the cart to her house. Once that was done she took them back to the stables and snuck out of the city to head to the Osias. As she walked, Arisa came out and floated in front of her, turning towards her with arms behind her back and a smile.
"I think Timerra's offer is a good opportunity." She said but Nanami looked ready to burst into tears.
"I-I don't know!" Nanami said as Arisa crossed her arms, "On one hand, I can get decent pay and use the connections to find my siblings. But the other is I might interact with the rest of the cast and get dragged into the war! I'm not a fighter!" She said and Arisa sighed, "Worst, Ike senses you and it's all over for both of us!"
"Umm..." Arisa put her arms down, "I highly doubt Ike will be able to sense me. Perhaps he can but...the man has no way of telling the princess because only Alear can summon him. So...you are safe." Arisa said and sighed again.
"But Nanami, constantly running away will do you no good. I understand you are afraid. I was too when I first awaken as Byleth, but I eventually learned to accept the world around me and people." Arisa said and Nanami huffed.
"That's because you had no choice! You had to live as Byleth! You had to adapt! I have a choice to leave this world!" Nanami said and Arisa looked at her extremely hurt by her words.
Nanami turned away.
"I'm not a soldier. I'm not a medic. I'm not a fighter. I'm an ordinary human who was dragged into this fucken mess!" She turned back to her, furious, "My brother has suffered enough. My sister has suffered enough. I'm done with constantly being dragged into things that I don't belong to!" She yelled, "I should leave Solm. Maybe hunt down Anna too for some information." She sighed.
"But what if your siblings don't want to leave?" Arisa said carefully, making Nanami reel, "What if they want to stay? What if they want to start a new life here? You may be their sister but they have their own choices. You can not take that away from them. If you even dare try to emotionally manipulate them into leaving this world behind for your sake, you are worse than a bandit." The disappointment in her tone made Nanami feel like a child.
Nanami hated that Arisa was speaking the truth. What if her siblings were happy being in a new world? What if they found a new live hood and want to stay? What if they made friends and even found love?
"I...then I'll leave this world...by myself."
"Lies." Arisa said coldly, "Your love for them outweighs your fear. You will force yourself to remain in a place you do not wish to remain. Tell me, Nanami, " Arisa leaned forward, "Do you truly wish to leave, or are you only trying to comfort yourself?"
"I DON'T WANT TO DIE! THAT'S ALL!"
"And I do not want to see you make the mistakes I did."
Nanami froze as Arisa gritted her teeth.
"I was just like you. I was afraid. I did everything I could so Dimitri would not remember me. I even went as far as erasing his memories of me when he was a child. And it's a decision I regret to this day! Even the real me regrets it!" Arisa yelled and slammed her hand over her heart, "Because I let my fear control me! Because I made choices that affected everyone! Tell me Nanami, do you want to regret everything you have done?! Do you regret meeting Timerra, Merrin, and Panette? Tell me?! Are they the only characters in a game to you?! They are living breathing people like you! You are in denial just like I once was!" Arisa said and Nanami sobbed.
"I don't know...didn't expect Timerra's question to affect me so much. Merrin and Pannette are amazing people and I don't want to admit but I don't hate my life here in Solm. If anything, I am enjoying it. Minus the constant working." Nanami sobbed, confessing how she was feeling.
"I apologize. I shouldn't have snapped at you." Arisa sighed and gently patted her head, "But you need to think about your situation. Constantly trying to run away from a situation will do you no good. It will come back to bite you. I speak from personal experience." Arisa said with a distant look in her gaze.
Nanami knew she couldn't run forever, she had to go forward...even if it stung...
- end of flashback -
"Oh yeah, she's been telling me about the food a lot. Bunet got a bit jealous." Fogado chuckled as Nanami gave him a small smile, "Say, when is your food stall open? I'd love to come with my friends to eat." He said and Nanami grinned.
"It's open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday." She said as the prince smiled, "Also, I know this may...sound out of topic what did he mean I am a pure-blood Lycinth? I know my last name is Lycinth but I was never told its origins." She said and the prince scratched his head.
"I honestly don't know much but the Lycinth clan is a clan that is said to have perished one thousand years ago after The Fell War was over. The story is that the last two survivors left through an Outrealm Gate and destroyed it to prevent anyone from ever inv—" Fogado paused, "Hey? Are you alright?" The color from Nanami's face drained.
"The...Outrealm Gate...was destroyed?" Nanami's voice cracked, "I...I need to go. Thank you, Prince Fogado." She said and quickly walked away before he could say anything.
Fogado was confused but...why did she look like she had seen a ghost?
[—-]
Nanami ignored the funny looks she was getting when she walked through the city. The shadows covering her eyes and the noises were all muffled as the beat of her heart pounded in her ears. It was already late at night and she just continued to walk endlessly, a haunted look in her eyes.
"two survivors left through an Outrealm and destroyed..."
"Destroyed..."
"Destroyed..." Nanami croaked and came to stop, "The Outrealm gate...is gone... Then...that means...I'm alone..." she muttered, "There's...no chance of Perla and Miguel being here...me searching...it's pointless..." she whispered and went to sit down on the steel seat in her sight.
The light she had was from the salt crystal street light. As she sat there, she began trembling, her hands balled into fists on her lap.
Drip...drip...
"Sniff...Sniff...Aaaah..." Tears fell as she raised her hands, looking at them as it finally sunk, "I have no way home..." and the woman buried her face in her hands, and wept.
Arisa knew it was risky if she appeared, even though they saw no one was around, but at that moment, she did not care. The woman manifested and gently hugged Nanami from behind, wrapping her arms around her, the same way Sothis would do to comfort her. She let Nanami cry, never once interrupting her. All she did was listen. Arisa looked up to where they were, her gaze half-lidded as she realized where Nanami was. Somehow, they ended up in the area of the city where the giant statue of a female wolf knight was built in honor of them. The hero of Solm, Maria Sanchez, is the legendary wolf knight.
Of the heroes, each nation had a statue built in honor of them. In Elusia, the mage Knight Ermos had a statue of him at the center of the capital. Maria's was built in Solm's. Alma in Brodia's capital, Francis in Firene, and lastly, Ruby's and Oscar's was built in Lythos.
"I have no way home...I can't go back home! Now...the chances of my siblings being here are over! I'm alone!" Nanami sobbed, "What am I to do...?! The chance of seeing my family again is gone!" She cried out as Arisa gently rubbed her head.
"There, there, let all ou-!" The woman quickly let go of Nanami and warped herself in front of her.
The Sword of The Creator quickly appeared in her, raised it was. Nanami was shocked by the sudden action but quickly stood up, wiping her tears as she pulled out her military knife. Arisa narrowed her eyes as she looked around then waved her hand to make her sword disappear.
"What was that?" Nanami said as she put her danger away.
Arisa remained silent, glaring at the spot she was looking at, an empty alleyway. She turned back to Nanami and smiled.
"It seems I was wrong. Come, let's go back to your apartment." Arisa said as Nanami looked at her worried and began to walk away but not before she glanced back at the ally way.
Arisa's eyes became slits for a moment as she glanced back and then left with the girl.
From the shadows, a thin tongue flicked, and once the girls were gone, a small black snake with purple eyes came out. Then it slithered away.
"Found you..."
[-]
"You told her what?!" Rumba boomed as Queen Seforia pinched the bridge of her nose.
"I told her that the last two heroes of your clan destroyed the last Outrealm Realm gate to prevent Elyos from being invaded?" Fogado chuckled nervously and Rumba through his hands in the air.
"I LIVE IN A WORLD OF IDIOTS!" The mage yelled and turned back to the prince, "What was her reaction?!"
"She looked like she had seen a ghost," Fogado said, scratching his cheek.
"Rumba, please explain." Queen Seforia said, "Yelling is not going to help. What does the girl's reaction have to do with this?"
"I'm confused as well," Timerra said and Rumba sighed then stopped pacing, fully turning to the group.
"She doesn't know her origins. She looked like she had seen a ghost when Fogado told her the last Outrealm gate was destroyed. She has the same genetic defect as those of my clan. She's a pure-blood Lycinth which should be impossible! The only clans that remain are mine, Klaus's, Rose's, and Martha's, we are of mixed blood and Lycinth. The pure bloodline should no longer exist! The Dragon Crystal only reacts to those who are of Gardlon blood and from the OUTREALMS!" Rumbas said and it finally dawned on them all.
Queen Seforia's eyes widened as her children's jaws dropped.
"Do you mean to say…that girl comes from beyond Elyos?" Queen Seforia said and the mage nodded, "Rumba, how is that even possible? No one from other worlds should even be able to step a foot here."
"She was dragged to this world against her will and she doesn't even know it."