Here we are at Chapter 37. Time for the next big stage in Fuyumi's journey. I do not own Code Vein or Skeleton Knight. They belong to their respective owners. I only own my OCs. Here's chapter 37. Enjoy.


Chapter 37: Royal Meetings

After Fuyumi and the others returned to Crystalglove, things quited down for them. Fuyumi and Elane revealed their new relationship to Emilia. When Elane made it clear that she did not want to marry Fuyumi, but was fine with being a lover or mistress, Emilia accepted it. In noble society, it's not uncommon for noble men to have multiple wives or a wife and a few mistresses. And Elane had no intention of getting into a duel with Emilia when it came to Fuyumi. She's seen firsthand how intimidating the young woman can be. However, that was not the only important conversation Fuyumi needed to have with Emilia and her family.

"So, you can't age?" Emilia's mother, Eleonora, asks.

"Not exactly. Revenants do age, but at a much slower rate than normal humans. As such, our lifespans are far longer. Some Revenants can live hundreds of years. Of course, as I've explained before, my kind are not born through normal means, so we can't exactly reproduce and have large numbers. That, and the constant fighting back home dwindled our numbers severely," Fuyumi explains.

"However, while that is not an issue, it does bring another concern," Emilia's father, Joseph, notes.

"Huh, what do you mean?" Anelia cocks her head, confused.

"He means that as Emilia gets older, Fuyumi will essentially remain the same in terms of her appearance. People will notice soon enough and ask questions. They may not know your true origins, but they will speculate. They may even see you as a demon and try to kill you. And that would come back on Emilia's family," Iris clarifies.

"I'm sorry that I put you in this situation," Fuyumi bows her head.

Emilia shakes her head, "It is not your fault. I made my choice, and I stand by it. But, it would be best to start taking measures now while we still have time. But, what measures could we take?"

"I have an idea for that," Elane steps forth. "Elves are known to have long lifespans. Because of this, my people are aware that there have been humans in the past that have tried different methods of prolonging their lives. All attempts have failed thus far,"

"Yes, I heard about those two. Some thought drinking elvin blood would work. Or some kind of advanced form of magic. There's also the legendary Elixir that can heal any wound, with some saying it can grant someone immortality. But, nothing ever worked and eventually the practices were outlawed. No one ever succeeded and simply accepted it as the way of things. Fuyumi, you are known throughout the kingdom as a master of magic. Of course, we know that your magic is different than ours, but to everyone else, you learned how to wield magic without incantations. Perhaps you can use that as a smokescreen. Perhaps, we could say that you developed a magical item similar to the Elixir and drank it, thus extending your life. However, the materials you gathered to create it were extremely rare, and thus, you were unable to make anymore of it. It would explain why the rest of us, with the exception of Elane, don't live longer. Would something like that work?" Joseph suggests.

"Wow, you already thought all that up. I'm impressed. Yeah, that could work. I'm not from these lands, so my little cover story would work just fine for that. But, would the king believe that?" Fuyumi asks.

"I haven't told His Majesty about your true origins. However... I know you're worried about what people might do if they find out. But, I know His Majesty. He is an honorable man. What's more, you have fought in service to our kingdom on more than one occasion now. That would go a long way into steering the king's opinion to your side. Perhaps it's time to at least tell him. I will come with you and speak on your behalf," Joseph offers.

"You sure that will work. What if he doesn't go for it and it puts your family in danger?" Fuyumi asks, concerned.

"I have sworn fealty to the king, but I am also a father. My daughter loves you and I know you feel the same. Should the worst come to pass, I'll aid you in escaping the country. As long as you agree to take my daughter with you," Joseph says.

"Father," Emilia is touched by her father's words.

Fuyumi smiles, "You truly are unique, Lord Joseph. A man worthy of his noble status. Alright, we'll go with your plan. Come what may,"

Joseph nods, "I'll send a letter asking for a meeting with His Majesty. We should be able to see him in the coming days. Until then, please take this time to relax. You've just returned from another arduous journey. Even the greatest warriors need rest,"

Fuyumi nods and thus the meeting is over. Over the next few days, Fuyumi relaxes with the others at the Crystalglove manor as they wait for a reply from the capital. Fuyumi takes the opportunity to spend some quality time with Emilia since she's been away for a little while. Soon enough, a reply comes in and they are granted an audience with the king. Fuyumi and Joseph go while the others remain at their home. If things go badly, Joseph already had measures in place in case Fuyumi and Emilia need to leave. And Fuyumi can use her powers to take them immediately from the capital back to the manor. Hopefully, that won't be necessary.

In the capital, Fuyumi and Joseph meet with King Gaius. They have the meeting in a private room, with only the king and them inside.

"Now then, I am glad to see you both again, however... Something tells me this isn't a casual visit, now is it," King Gaius deduces.

Joseph nods, "It is as you say, Your Majesty. We came today because we wish to speak to you about something very important. I also apologize on having to speak with you in private. What we are about to tell you is that critical," Joseph says.

"I see... Very well. What is it you wish to speak to me about?" the king asks.

Joseph turns his attention to Fuyumi and nods.

Fuyumi takes a breath, "I want to tell you the truth, Your Majesty. The truth... about me,"

Thus, Fuyumi told the king the same story she told Emilia's family. Throughout the whole story, the king remained silent and stoic as Fuyumi regaled her tale. It was only after Fuyumi finished it that she felt the most nervous. If the king reacts poorly, she'll have to leave with Emilia and the others, but then her family might come under fire for harboring her secret, and for Joseph not informing him of it sooner. Seconds felt like hours for Fuyumi as the king still had not said a word.

At long last, the king sighs, "That is... quite a story, Ser Fuyumi. Almost like something from a fairytale that only someone possessed by demons might come up with,"

"You are free to think that, Your Majesty, but it is the truth," Fuyumi replies, doing her best not to sweat.

"Let me ask you. These monsters, these Horrors... is there any chance of them reaching out kingdom from your homeland?" King Gaius asks.

Fuyumi shakes her head, "I don't believe so, Your Majesty,"

"I see. Duke Joseph, why didn't you inform me of this sooner?" the king turns to the due now.

Duke Joseph bows his head, "Forgive me, Your Majesty. While I have a duty as a servant to the royal family, I also have another duty. A duty that at time is even more important than the former... the duty of a father. I cannot separate my Emilia from someone she loves. If I can't even protect my own family, then how can I defend Your Majesty when you call for my service," he remains resolute.

Gaius takes a moment to think on his words, "I see... Fuyumi Kusanagi. One question: where do you stand in all of this? In our kingdom?"

"I stand with the people I care about, Your Grace. And the people I care about call the Kingdom of Anatolia their home. That makes it my home too. And I will defend it, and them, to my dying breath," Fuyumi looks him in the eye.

"I see... You have not been in our fair kingdom for long, Fuyumi Kusanagi. But, you have lent your aid to us time and again. You have helped unravel those in the shadows that conspire against us, even now. All at the risk of your own life, in more ways than one. And telling me all of this no doubt is an incredible risk you are taking. Trusting me with this knowledge. You have placed your trust in me, and for that... I will not give you a reason to regret your choice. You have sworn to defend this realm, and those that live in it. That kind of loyalty is a two-way streak. Thus, I will return that loyalty. I swear, as the king of this great kingdom, that you will always have a home here. To guard your secret even after I take my last breath in this world," King Gaius vows.

Fuyumi feels a wave of relief wash over her and she bows her head, "Thank you, Your Majesty. I promise you won't regret this," she then raises her head. "With that in mind, Your Majesty, there's something else we need to discuss,"

Fuyumi then tells them what happened when she went to the Elf Village and encountered the Lost there. Suffice to say, the king was very concerned about that.

"Any idea how or where these Lost came to be here?" King Gaius asks.

"I don't know, Your Grace. But, those tamers had no control over them, that's for sure. No one can control the Lost. In an army, they would serve best as berserkers, thrown into the melee to sow chaos and weaken an enemy's strength. They feel no fear, they do not hesitate. The only thing they don't attack is other Lost. If someone out there is trying to control them, to use them as weapons of war, there will be a lot of bloodshed. I must find out where they came from and stop them. I already lost one home. I cannot lose another," Fuyumi explains.

"I understand the scope of this threat. If that's the case, then we must find out who sent them and why. I have my suspicions. Allow me to look into this matter. Duke Joseph, may I ask for your assistance in this matter?" King Gaius asks.

"As you wish, Your Majesty," Duke Joseph bows his head again.

"In regards to your story, Ser Fuyumi, we'll use the idea that Duke Joseph suggested. That your slow aging is due to a magical item you used on yourself that was similar to the legendary elixir and extended your life with it as an experiment, but the item no longer exists. Some may try to replicate your method or ask you for information on it. However, with the support of the royal family, most should back off. Luckily, we have time before people start asking questions. That will help us build a more solid foundation on this. Plus, the more you contribute to our kingdom, the more supporters will rally to your cause," King Gaius says.

"Then, that's what we'll do," Fuyumi agrees.

"For now, take this time to rest, Ser Fuyumi. When I have need of you, I will call upon you," King Gaius says.

"As you wish, Your Majesty," Fuyumi replies.

With the meeting over, they leave the room. However, as soon as they do, Fuyumi sees a little girl running towards them with a maid trailing behind her, looking quite worried.

"Father! Father!" the girl, Princess Iris Anatolia, seems quite full of energy right now.

"Iris, what seems to be the matter? And why are you running in the halls? You know better than that," Gaius chastises his daughter.

"Forgive me, Father, but when I heard the Sword Maiden was here, I couldn't help myself. I wanted to see her," Princess Iris explains.

"She wants to see me?" Fuyumi mutters.

Joseph leans into her ear, "Tales of your heroics have become quite popular as of late. I guess she admires you due to those stories,"

"Also, she and my Iris share the same first name. Is 'Iris' a common name?" Fuyumi asks.

"Not common, but not that rare either. It just happened, that is all," Joseph explains.

"Iris, I know you admire Ser Fuyumi and her deeds, but I do not think now is the best time to see her," King Gaius says.

"Your Majesty, if I may... Since our meeting is over, why not let me escort Her Highness for a little while? I'm sure you and the duke have other things to discuss," Fuyumi suggests.

"Hmm, what say you, Duke Joseph?" Gaius turns to the noble.

"Ser Fuyumi has a point. I don't see a problem with it. Besides, the princess will become more determined the next time she visits," Joseph says.

"Very Well. Alright, Iris, it seems Ser Fuyumi has some free time. You may speak with her but be sure to remember your lessons on etiquette. You wouldn't want your mother finding out now, would you?" Gaius concedes.

Princess Iris remembers and curtsies, "Yes, of course, Father,"

With that, Duke Joseph and King Gaius head down one path while Fuyumi follows Princess Iris down another. Fuyumi ends up in the royal palace's garden. The garden shows a plethora of beautiful and elegant flowers, along with a small pavilion in the center. Fuyumi and Princess Iris take seats across from each other while a pair of maids prepare tea and treats for the pair.

"I've always wanted to speak with you, Ser Fuyumi, and now I get to have tea with you. I'm so excited!" Princess Iris seems quite excited.

"I see. I wasn't aware of your admiration for me, Your Highness," Fuyumi notes before sipping her tea.

"How could I not? When I saw you when you first came before my family, I was mesmerized. I thought you were a character straight out of an ancient fairytale," Princess Iris says.

"Come now, Princess, I'm hardly worthy of such praise," Fuyumi says.

She's had people compliment her before, but never with the kind of energy that the princess exudes. Still, she finds the princess quite adorable. Must be because she's so young.

"I heard that you've heard stories about my recent assignments that the king assigned to me," Fuyumi notes.

Princess Iris takes a bite of a cookie before speaking, "Not that much, but enough to get a good idea. I also heard that you have more fiancés now. Is that true?" she asks, curious.

Fuyumi sighs, "Yes, it is, Your Highness. I have three fiancés as of now," she says. "Probably best not to tell her about Elane becoming my mistress for now. Who know how she might react. Of course, how will she react to what I just told her?"

"Oh, I see. Yes, that's actually pretty good," Iris nods her head in thought.

Fuyumi cocks her head, "It is? What do you mean, Your Highness?" she asks.

"I mean, considering who you are, it would be very strange if you only had one significant other. It's only natural that someone as amazing as you Ser Fuyumi would have multiple wives," Princess Iris says like it's no big deal.

"Wait, you're not opposed to that?" Fuyumi asks.

"Yes. I mean, it was said that my great-great grandfather had six wives during his reign as king long ago. If anything, I'd be surprised if you didn't have at least as many wives as him," Princess Iris notes nonchalantly.

Fuyumi is not exactly sure how to process all this new information.

"So, how did you get so strong, Ser Fuyumi? I've never seen anyone besides you who can use magic without incantations. And what about your hair? Is that it's natural color, or did you do something to make it look like that?" Princess Iris asks.

"No, it's my natural hair color, Princess. As for my magic, let's just say that it took me a long time and a lot of training to get it to such a level. Same with my swordsmanship. My people are a clan of warriors, first and foremost. It's a part of our way of life. Though, you could also say that I'm unique, even among my people. They can't do a lot of the things that I can do," Fuyumi explains without giving anything away.

"Oh, I see. Please, tell me more. I want to hear all about you," Princess Iris asks.

Fuyumi goes on to tell plenty of things to the princess, sure to keep all the more gruesome details from her ears. A little girl like her doesn't need to hear any of that stuff just yet. Soon enough, King Gaius and Duke Joseph return and their tea party comes to an end. With that, Duke Joseph and Fuyumi return to their home in Crystalglove.

In the Gravlon Empire's capital, Montross, Lord Gilbert Tachay meets with Lady Philine Hawke in one office in the castle of the capital.

"Are things proceeding along with regards to the Dragon Alliance?" Gilbert asks.

"They are. Defenses around the Alliance are strong, so we must be cautious and patient. However, they have not noticed anything yet. What about things on your end?" Lady Hawke asks.

Lord Gilbert sighs, "Unfortunately, the mission to locate the elf village has failed. They would've been marvelous test subjects for my experiments. Unfortunately, we cannot spare any more resources for that avenue. We'll simply have to make do with what we have now. Also, I still have not learned how to control the test subjects currently at our disposal. At best, we can use them as expendable berserkers on the battlefield with the goal of sowing chaos and fear on the enemy's side. As long as we make sure they don't attack our side first. They seem to be attracted to the scent of blood. It makes them go into a frenzy. I do have a few ideas on how to exploit that, though," he explains.

"Well, as long as they prove useful for the Emperor, I could care less. Just make sure they don't cause any more problems on our end. I'm well aware of what happened in your first set of field tests with those... things," Lady Hawke gives him a subtle glare.

"Now, now, no need to be so scary, Lady Hawke. They were necessary sacrifices in pursuit of the emperor's grand desire. Soon, we will unite the continent under his glorious rule and bring about a new age for our people. We will right the wrongs of the last war," Lord Gilbert says, sounding a little dramatic.

"It shall be so. Well, I have preparations to make. Until next time, Lord Gibert," Lady Hawke gives him a slight bow and then takes her leave.

As soon as she exits the room, Lord Gilbert shakes his head with a frown, "Ignorant woman, just like all the rest. No respect for discovery or the pursuit of knowledge."

Outside, Lady Hawke shows her own frown, "Disgusting Swine. I hope those experiments of yours eat you one day," she curses under her breath as she walks away.

The time they have waited so long for is almost upon them.


And that's the chapter. Fuyumi tells the king the truth of her origins and gains his support in her future endeavors. Meanwhile, those in the Gravlon Empire are planning their next move? What are they planning next? Will Fuyumi and her friends be ready for it? Until then, please Read and Review.