Here we are at Chapter 30. Now that Fuyumi has finished her business in the east, it's time to return home. I do not own Code Vein or Skeleton Knight. They belong to their respective owners. I only own my OCs. Here's chapter 30. Enjoy.
Chapter 30: Return plus One
After settling things with Iris's family, Fuyumi and her friends stayed the night. The next day, Fuyumi and her friends prepare for the return home. Luckily, with Fuyumi's abilities, it won't be a long journey. However, before they can leave, the count summons them for one final meeting before they go. Inside his manor, Fuyumi finds Iris back in her armor, and a pleasant smile upon her face.
"Iris, good to see you again," Fuyumi greets her.
"The same for you, Fuyumi," Iris returns the greeting.
The two smile at each other for a moment longer than some would think necessary. And it shows.
"Oh, another one, huh," Elane smirks while Anelia blushes a bit.
This makes the two ladies blush before looking away. They move to the count's room to find the rest of the family waiting for them. Everyone takes a seat to begin the meeting.
"Once again, allow me to thank you for saving my family in its hour of need and for making me see the error of my ways. I'm only sorry that you couldn't stay longer," Count Lyle says.
"I was only trying to help," Fuyumi replies.
"And you also took great care to inform me of your mission for the king. I already sent a letter to his majesty explaining things, and I know you have too. If His Majesty ever requires it, my house will aid him, you, and this country that I love. Should you ever need my aid, you will have it," the count bows his head.
"I thank you for your support, Count Lyle," Fuyumi bows in return.
"Father, if I may make a request," Iris pops up.
"What is it, Iris?" Lyle asks his daughter.
"I am already going to be journeying with Fuyumi and her companions, but if I may ask for your approval... I would like your blessing in becoming Fuyumi's betrothed," Iris announces to everyone's astonishment.
"You wish... to be engaged to Ser Fuyumi?" Lyle is the most stunned of all.
"I know I am being incredibly selfish with this, but I wish to be by Fuyumi's side. Not just as her knight, but as her fiancé," Iris says.
"Iris," Cyan mutters.
"I see no reason to disagree with this arrangement," Albert gives his approval, causing his family to stare at him with different expressions. "Think about it. Iris was never fond of the idea of being married to a man she's rarely met, as she has made that quite known in the past. But, if she were to be engaged to Fuyumi, it can only benefit our house. Fuyumi is engaged to Lady Emilia Crystalglove, daughter of Duke Crystalglove. What's more, his majesty himself has taken a liking with Fuyumi Kusanagi. Forming a connection with them through Fuyumi can only strengthen our house," Albert says.
"As practical as always, brother," Cyan rolls his eyes. "I can't speak for his reasoning. But, I have failed to be a good brother for so long. I won't make that same mistake again. Iris, if you wish to be with Fuyumi, then you have my support,"
"Thank you, Cyan... and you, Albert," Iris smiles at their approval.
They all look to Lyle now, "I said it before, and I'll say it again. I will not stand in your way again. If you wish to do this, then I will love and support you all the way. Ser Fuyumi, what say you?"
All eyes are on her, but Fuyumi only focuses on Iris, "I am not perfect, but I do know that I have come to care for you, Iris. As I do Emilia and Anelia. But first, I must ask a question," she turns to Anelia. "I cannot ask Emilia right now, but I can ask you. Are you okay with this, Anelia?"
Anelia takes a few moments to think it over, "I know Emilia would be okay with it. She even expects it, as long as she gets to be the head wife. I know you, Fuyumi. I love you. Seeing people drawn to you. To your strength, your kindness, your honor and heart. I love seeing you be you, and this is another part of you. To ask for my approval, when men would never ask their wives about taking on another, it shows your strength of character," Anelia looks back to Iris. "Iris, do you love Fuyumi?"
Iris sits up straight, "I do. With all my heart," she says without hesitation.
"...That we both share. It was Fuyumi who was there for me when no one else was. She helped me so much, and I wouldn't be who I am today without her. Fuyumi is who she is because she walks down her own path, letting no one stop her. If she stopped being that, then she wouldn't be the woman I love anymore. If you wish to be her third fiancé, then you have my blessing," Anelia gives her approval.
Fuyumi smiles at her approval, "Then, with her approval, I would be honored to, but let me do this properly," Fuyumi stands and walks over to kneel before Iris. "Iris von Mirage, will you be my wife?"
"You're almost making me wish I was wearing a dress right now instead of armor," Iris starts to tear up. "Yes. Yes, I would be delighted to marry you," she accepts.
Fuyumi smiles, "Well, you could always wear a dress on our wedding day," she chuckles.
And thus, Iris became Fuyumi's third fiance. All smile at this occasion, with the only exception being Elane who merely sighs with a shrug of her shoulders. With that settled, Fuyumi and her group finally prepare to return home. Fuyumi needs to return to the capital to speak with the king on her mission. But, first she would return to Crystalglove to see Emilia and explain the situation. Besides, it's closer to the capital than Bome Town, so it will be less of a trip.
"I will have the horses ready for your departure," Count Lyle says.
"Oh no, there's no need for that. I have a much faster way," Fuyumi says as they exit the manor.
"You do? How so?" Iris asks, curious.
"Simple. Place your hand upon me like the others and hold on," Fuyumi says, but that only confuses her more.
"You get used to it," Elane says, knowing what's coming.
After Iris says her goodbyes to her family, the group gathers around Fuyumi. Once they all have her hands on her arms or shoulders, Fuyumi uses her ability to return them to the Duke's manor.
Their sudden disappearance shocks the count's family, "Was that... teleportation magic?!" Cyan is astounded.
"I knew she had talent for magic, but I didn't think she could do this," even the stoic Albert is stunned.
"Fuyumi Kusanagi, I was right to leave my daughter in your hands," Lyle mutters.
…
In the duke's garden in Crystalglove city, particles form around the mistle untl they take shape in the form of Kuyumi and her friends. While everyone else is okay, Iris is still collecting herself from the sudden venture.
"I-I, what, where... how?" Iris first makes sure that she's in one piece, then checks her surroundings. "Fuyumi, how did you..."
"Think of it like teleportation magic. Sorry about the sudden scare, but I wanted to surprise you. However, it only works to return myself and anyone touching me back to the duke's manor because of this," Fuyumi points to the mistle plant.
"What is that?" Iris asked, staring at the strange plant.
"It's a long story. Basically, it's a special kind of plant with magical properties that only I can use. This plant is the source of my teleportation. I can return to any place where one such plant is. They exist back in my homeland, but this one popping up here was a rare stroke of good fortune for me. This way I can return home in seconds, no matter how far away I am," Fuyumi explains.
"I see... You seem to be full of surprises," Iris notes, still in awe.
Fuyumi chuckles, "Come, I'm sure the others would be delighted to see us, and I wish to see Emilia again," Fuyumi leads the way for the group.
As they reach the doors to the garden, they open up to reveal Emilia on the other side with a maid behind her.
Emilia gasps upon seeing Fuyumi, "Fuyumi! You're home!" Emilia practically jumps on her in a big embrace.
Fuyumi giggles as she returns the embrace, "It's good to be home. I've missed you, Emilia,"
The two lean back, trapped in their own little universe as they just stare lovingly at each other.
"Ahem," Elane gets their attention.
The two separate as Emilia blushes before composing herself, "Well, I'm glad to see that you're home, and that your friends are alright. I trust your mission for His Majesty went well,"
"Sort of. There's a lot to discuss. I'm sorry I can't stay long, but the king expects me at the capital to fully explain what happened in my mission. And, I have a few other matters to discuss with him that can't be done over a letter. This was simply a faster way to get there," Fuyumi holds Emilia in her arms again. "But, as soon as I'm done there, I'll be back here, and will stay for a while. We have lots to catch up on after all,"
Emilia pouts, "Oh, you'd better get back soon. But, let me at least ask... who's your new friend?" she looks back at Iris.
Iris steps up and bows with a hand on her chest, "It is an honor to meet you, Lady Emilia von Crystalglove. I am Iris von Mirage, daughter of Count Lyle von Mirage,"
"Count Mirage's daughter? I am somewhat familiar with the count. So, to what do I owe the company of your presence with my fiance?" Emilia asks after performing an elegant curtsy.
"I am deeply indebted to Fuyumi for saving me from a personal crisis that involved my family. There is also another reason why I am acquainted with her, and something I must discuss with you, Lady Emilia," Iris replies.
"I see. Well, then let's continue this conversation inside. Please prepare some refreshments for our guests and inform Mother that Fuyumi has returned home," Emilia instructs the maid behind her.
"As you wish, milady," the maid bows and does as instructed.
"Come. Rest while we discuss things," Emilia wraps her arms around Fuyumi's as the group head inside.
Duke Crystalglove is currently away on noble business, leaving just Emilia, Eleonora, and their servants at the manor. After Eleonora greets them, they all move to another room with a table and seats for guests to continue their conversation. Fuyumi explains what happened during her mission in Calipso, including the tournament, meeting Iris, and the chaos that erupted soon afterwards. Then she explained how she and her group followed Iris back to her home in Bome and helped her with her family issues.
Eleonora sips her tea, "I see. That certainly was a complicated situation. I've spoken to Lord Mirage a few times and I don't believe he was ever a cruel man. In the end, he was just an overprotective father making a few poor mistakes. It can happen to the best of us,"
"Well, I'm just glad you were able to help them, Fuyumi. And that you survived your mission for His Majesty. It seems this slave trafficking group runs deeper than we first thought," Emilia says.
"Unfortunately, we could not figure out if they are linked to the Gravlon Empire. However, the fact that I faced that same woman who was there when Anelia was kidnapped. She said her name was May Fanchone. Does that name sound familiar to you?" Fuyumi asks.
Eleonora thinks for a moment, "Hmm... No, I can't say that it does. I am familiar with some nobles from other countries, but not all of them. Depending on how secretive they are. This woman may not be a noble at all, but a commoner with great combat skills. I'll ask my husband when he returns. Be sure to inform his majesty when you see him,"
"Okay, also there's one last thing we need to discuss," Fuyumi says, getting nervous.
"Like what?" Emilia asks.
"Well..." Fuyumi glances at Iris.
Iris stands up, "I wish to be engaged to Fuyumi Kusanagi. I already have my father's blessing, and Lady Anelia's, but I would like to ask for your blessing as well, Lady Emilia. You are her first fiance, and a duke's daughter. Fuyumi wanted to know if you would be alright with her taking me as another wife. Please, may I have your blessing?" she bows to her.
Emilia looks to Fuyumi, "Well, things kind of happened. She's a good girl, and I wouldn't be against it, but I wanted to know if you were alright with it, Emilia," Fuyumi says.
The room grows quiet as everyone awaits Emilia's decision. Iris can feel herself sweating beneath her armor.
Emilia stands and faces Iris, "Iris von Mirage, do you love Fuyumi?"
Iris doesn't even hesitate, "I do. With all my heart. If it weren't for her, I would've been doomed to a life I wanted no part of,"
"And do you swear not to steal her from me? To be there for her when I cannot? To fight by her side in the darkest of times?" Emilia asks.
"I do. I swear on my honor as a future knight and as a woman bound to Fuyumi," Iris swears.
Emilia sighs, "Then I believe we have come to an agreement. You have my blessing to marry Fuyumi,"
"Thank you! Thank you, Lady Emilia!" Iris springs up with a big smile.
"But, remember that I will be the head wife, understand," Emilia says.
"Yes, I understand. You are the daughter of a duke, while I am the daughter of a count. It's only natural that you would be the first wife," Iris agrees completely.
That didn't take much convincing.
"Good, then we are in agreement again. I'll inform my father of this and have him speak with your father to finalize the engagement. Fuyumi is already for it, so there shouldn't be any problems," Emilia says.
Fuyumi sighs with relief, feeling a weight off her shoulders. She wasn't sure how Emilia would react to her taking another wife. Looks like she worried for nothing.
"Now then, with all that settled, I believe you'd best head to the capital to speak with His Majesty. No doubt he'll want a clear report on what transpired in Calipso. I'll send a letter to him, informing him of your impending arrival," Eleonora says.
"Thank you, Eleonora," Fuyumi bows her head.
With all that settled, Fuyumi and the gang prepare for the journey to the capital. They are given a group of horses. Normally, they would go on foot and then Fuyumi would teleport them back. This time, they decided to take the long way back this time, to enjoy the scenery. Fuyumi bids farewells to Emilia and her family before her group ride for the capital, a journey which will take a few days. It is during this journey that Elane makes a revelation to Iris.
"Iris, if we are to continue traveling together, then I think you should who something about me," Elane says, then removes her hood, revealing her elf ears.
"You're... an elf?" Iris replies.
"Is that a problem?" Elane gets a little defensive.
"N-No, it is not. I was just surprised, that is all. Forgive me if I made any offense," Iris apologizes.
"I have been travelling with Fuyumi after she saved some of my people on two different occasions. The slavers we encountered in Calipso were also the ones responsible for kidnapping and enslaving my kin. I go to find the rest of them, to know who took them and why. My best chances at finding those answers are with Fuyumi. It is the same with Umi. The spirit creature trusts her, and that's good enough for me," Elane explains, gesturing to the bird on Fuyumi's shoulder.
"So, this quest runs deeper than I thought. Lady Elane, know that no one in my family, myself included, bear any ill will to your people. What's more, I do not support the concept of slavery, especially when done to the innocent. You have my support in this," Iris says.
"I'm glad to hear it. I am still... trying to get used to being in human society. There are only a few I know I can trust. It's hard to open up to humans," Elane says.
"Well, I'm honored that you would trust me enough to reveal your secret to me, Elane. Rest assured, I won't share this with anyone. Not even my family. It wouldn't be the first secret I kept from them," Iris replies.
With that settled, they continue on their journey to the capital, eventually reaching it after another day of riding. Once there, they head straight for the royal palace. Thankfully, they were expected and didn't have much trouble getting inside the castle. They are about to be escorted inside when one of the guards orders Elane to remove her hood.
"I'm sorry, but I must refuse," Elane says.
"This is not a request. Remove your hood and show your face at once," the guard says, hand resting on her sword.
Tensions rise until, "What is the meaning of this?!" they all look to see Prince Mikhail approaching them. "These people are our honored guests and the king wishes to speak with them immediately. Why are you making him wait?"
"Forgive us, Your Highness, but this woman refuses to remove her hood. She may be a danger to you and the rest of the royal family," one of the guards says.
"If this lady is travelling with Ser Fuyumi Kusanagi, then she is someone that can be trusted. I see no problem. Besides, if she really is a danger, then Fuyumi wouldn't have bought her in the first place. Enough with the theatrics," Prince Mikhail walks up to Fuyumi. "My apologies, Ser Fuyumi. Our guards are just doing their duty. I hope you can forgive them. Please, this way to His Majesty," and thus, the prince escorts Fuyumi's group.
"Thank you for your aid, Your Highness. I was worried things would get hectic," Fuyumi notes.
"It is no matter. You have done much for the kingdom. It's the least I can do," Mikhail replies as they walk through the halls of the castle.
"I hope our last meeting didn't hurt your pride too much, Prince Mikhail," Fuyumi teases about the time when he proposed to her, and she rejected him in front of everyone.
Prince Mikhail laughs nervously, "Ha-ha-ha, that rejection definitely stung a bit, but I've since gotten over it. Normally, I would've kept trying to win over your affections, but since you're engaged to another lady, I figure that hope is futile. Besides, there are plenty more fish in the see as they say,"
Fuyumi smirks at his ability to bounce back so quickly. Must be a prince thing. They reach the throne room, where the king sits upon his throne. The only other people in attendance are few of his advisors and an assortment of guards in attendance. While Anelia and Iris kneel before the king, Fuyumi and Elane simply bow. This makes a few of those here frown in disapproval.
"We have returned from our mission, your majesty," Fuyumi says,
"Commoner, you will kneel before your king at once!" one of the advisors demands.
"Enough. There is no need for Ser Fuyumi to do so. She made it clear who she is in our last meeting. I was the one who requested her aid. I can forgive this much at least. As for you, you're not from this kingdom and abide by different customs, don't you my dear," the king looks at Elane.
Elane narrows her eyes, "Yes, you are correct, King of Anatolia," she removes her hood to reveal herself, much to the shock of those present who didn't know. "I am Elane Mistral Glendas, an elf warrior from the Glendas clan. I was sent on a mission on behalf of our elder to find and liberate our kin who were kidnapped by those slavers. Fuyumi Kusanagi has been a great help in saving my people, and thus I have been travelling with her in the hopes of finding the rest of my people and who was responsible for their kidnapping,"
The king is surprised, but only for a moment, "I see. We share a common enemy in this conflict. Our own people have been kidnapped and forced into slavery. Though, I'm afraid I must admit that a few of our own nobles were aiding these crimes. For that, I hope you can forgive us for our short sidedness," the king bows his head to her, shocking his people.
"Your Grace, there's no need to prostrate yourself like this?" one advisor objects.
"We forbade slavery in our country, and yet it still occurs. We seek good relations with the elves, and yet our people enslaved theirs. The blame ultimately lies with me in not being a better king. This is my duty, and I will hear no objections on the matter," the king shuts him down. "Now then, I already received your letter, but I wish to hear a more detailed account on your mission to Calipso from your, Ser Fuyumi. Please explain what transpired there,"
Fuyumi then goes on to tell the tale of her mission in Calipso to the king and of all that transpired afterwards. The king listens intently to her story, as does everyone else. Only once her story is finished does Fuyumi stop speaking and give them the floor.
"To think that the slave trafficking ring has gone that far. Or perhaps, it started there and spread further east. How could I have allowed this to happen under my own watch?" the king moans sadly.
"Your Grace, what if this is a prelude for an attack from the Gravlon Empire? To undermine us from within and then strike at the best opportunity," an advisor suggests.
"We have no evidence that the Empire is behind all this. To make such accusations without any proof would paint a negative picture on our country to the rest of the continent. Now, Ser Fuyumi's account proves that these are same individuals from the incident in the northeast. We can also be sure that even if we stopped all their slaver activities, the damage has already been done. And I highly doubt that they were planning all of this simply for some coins for slaves. What is their true aim in this?" another advisor asks.
"Enough. Dark times may be on the horizon. Lady Elane, if I were to ask for your people's aid in the struggles that are ahead, will they aid us? I know we have done nothing to earn your people's trust, and some of my own people has harmed yours. I-no, WE are undeserving of your forgiveness, but... will you ask your elder to aid us in this quest? If your people will aid us, then I swear on my name, my house, and my life... The Kingdom of Anatolia will protect the elves and their freedom with everything we have," the king declares.
Elane is surprised by his words. That the king would even stake his own life for her people. She didn't see that coming.
"King Gaius of Anatolia, I cannot speak for the elder of my people. But, if you keep your vow that you just made, I will do all I can to convince my elder and my people to work with you. We have always tried to protect our own, but the sad truth is... we cannot do so on our own. Just as the seasons change, so too must we. We cannot remain hiding in trees and shadows forever, or else we may find ourselves doomed. I will hold you to your words... Your Majesty. Even if my people will not fight, I most certainly will,"
"Thank you, Lady Elane. Your trust will not be betrayed. This, I swear to you. For now, we cannot attack brazily and declare war, not without sufficient proof. So, we will fortify our defenses and prepare for any possible countermeasure. We will send missives to our allies to inform them of these troubling events, so they may prepare as well. Ser Fuyumi, should the kingdom have need of your services, I will call for you,"
"Of course, Your Grace. I will fight for Anatolia, not because of a duty to a king, but because it is the home of the people I care about. I believe that will be reason enough, won't you agree," Fuyumi says.
The king nods, "A fine reason indeed. Now then, you have performed admirably for the kingdom yet again, Ser Fuyumi. Tell me, what would you like for your reward?"
"Only two requests, which are simple matters for one such as you, Your Majesty. One, I wish for you to officially make Iris von Mirage a knight of the kingdom," Fuyumi turns to Iris. "She aided me in my mission. Her desire to fight for the kingdom is stronger than most, and her skill is exemplary. She would serve this kingdom better as a knight than as a simple lady," Fuyumi explains.
"I see...Very well. Lady Iris von Mirage, do you have your father's blessing in this regard?" King Gaius asks.
Iris bows her head, "Yes, Your Grace. I wish to fight for the people of Anatolia, not simply cower in fear, praying for someone to come save me. Let me serve you as I was meant to. As a knight. Let me bring honor to my house, to you, and to our people," she raises her head to look him in the eye.
The king smirks, "I see it. The fire in your eyes. They are similar to Ser Fuyumi's. A bird free from its bindings has more value than one in a cage. Very well, Iris von Mirage, kneel before me,"
Iris walks up and kneels before him. He stands and take a sword from one of his guards, standing before her.
"Iris von Mirage, in the name of the king. In the name of my father and his father before him. Iris von Mirage, do you swear to protect the kingdom of Anatolia? To serve the royal family and the people? To uphold honor, justice, and truth?" the king asks.
"I swear with all that I am, Your Majesty," Iris replies.
"Then I, King Gaius Shilage Anatolia, hereby name you Ser Iris von Mirage, knight of Anatolia," the king decrees.
Iris stands up, "Thank you, Your Majesty,"
"Ser Fuyumi, what is the second request of yours?' King Gaius asks.
"I have decided to take Ser Iris to be my third wife. I'd like for your blessing. Let me be clear that Emilia Crystalglove and her family have given their blessing, as had Iris's family. I have already asked Iris beforehand, and she said yes," Fuyumi says, making Iris blush a pretty pink from her words.
The nobles in the room are flabbergasted by this news. The only ones who aren't surprised are Fuyumi's group, Prince Mikhail who merely snickers at her antics, and the king who sighs.
"Of course, you did. At this point, nothing surprises me much when it comes to you. Very well, you have my blessing. I will be sure to speak with Count Mirage and Duke Crystalglove, but I doubt you'd lie to me. You may marry Iris von Mirage to be your third wife," the king gives his blessing.
"You are most gracious, Your Majesty," Fuyumi bows.
The meeting ends shortly after that and Fuyumi and her group leave the royal castle. Since the day is getting late, they decide to spend the night at an inn in the capital. As they do, however, Fuyumi waltzes up next to Iris.
"So, you're now officially a knight. How does it feel?" Fuyumi asks.
"I guess I'm still coming to terms with it. I never thought this day would come, nor that the king would knight me himself. I owe you a debt that can never be repaid, Fuyumi. Thank you," Iris says.
"You earned it, Iris. Now you can truly walk your own path, and I'll be there right by your side," Fuyumi holds her hand.
"Yes, I am looking forward to it," Iris smiles, their fingers intertwining.
"Be sure to look forward to tonight as well," Fuyumi says.
"Huh? What's happening tonight?" Iris is perplexed.
Fuyumi leans close to her ear, "Have you forgotten? I said that I'd give you a special reward if you became a knight. And I keep my promises. Be sure to look forward to it," she gives her a quick peck on her cheek before walking ahead, leaving a blushing Iris frozen in place.
Oh, Fuyumi was going to have a lot of fun that night.
And that's the chapter. Fuyumi returns home with Iris as her new bride before reaching the capital. Now that the issue with Calipso and Iris's knighthood has been settled, it's time to relax for a little while. Of course, there's more fun for Fuyumi later down the road. Until then, please Read and Review.