A/N: Thank you for your kind words, kuroshiragami0, and LadyHilariexxx (stay tuned, although some FT characters are a bit OOC). My heart is full. I'm back with the longest update in a while. I haven't been this motivated so far. Thank you for tuning in, and happy reading!
Irene led her to the bathing chamber, where a large, ornate tub was already filled with warm water waiting for them. The room was filled with the scent of lavender. Irene lowered Erza from her arms as she knelt to her level, patting her head before trying to help her undress.
"I can bath on my own, Lady Irene." Erza insisted.
She was embarrassed by the thought of Irene volunteering to bathe her, as she was reluctant to go with the maids' assistance.
"What are you embarrassed about?" Irene asked, bewildered by Erza's actions.
"Um," unsure what to say, Erza fumbled her fingers in nervousness, causing Irene to misunderstand.
Oh, she must've been embarrassed about the thought of bathing in such a big tub by herself. Irene started to undress herself, causing Erza to blush. She covered her eyes as her face turned red, realizing the misunderstanding, but not long after, she realized that Irene had picked her up and joined her in her bath.
"Does this suffice?" Irene asked, still holding Erza in her arms as she submerged in the warm water.
Erza immediately opened her eyes, widening with awe as she realized she had shared a bath with Irene. Fearing that the tub might be deep, she instinctively wrapped her arms around Irene's neck, not wanting to let go. Irene chuckled softly. She lowered further and showed her that it was at her level.
"I'm sorry, Lady Irene." Erza apologized as she tried to stand on her feet, submerging herself to her shoulder level.
Seeing Erza panic a little because the water level was quite high for her height, Irene used her magic to lower it. She marveled at her magic and smiled as soon as she began to play with the bubbles.
"This is wonderful, Lady Irene."
Erza's laughter filled the room. She scooped up handfuls of the frothy bubbles and blew them into the air, giggling as they floated around. Irene watched with a smile but soon turned sullen as she remembered the events last midnight.
Last night
"We'll be off now, Lady Irene," Heine and Juliet excused themselves as Irene dismissed them.
Irene sighed, her glance retracing back to the scarlet haired child sleeping in her arms. Her fingers threaded through Erza's silky locks as Irene's mind wandered back to her dream. Just who exactly are you? Irene had dreamt of that scene once, but ever since Erza entered her life, that haunting dream had kept recurring. The same dream of a long blue-haired man, his silhouette standing before her crying form, always lingered in the back of her mind. It was like a haunting reminder of her forgotten past. She gently pressed her forehead as she looked up at the sky. Knowing that she had lived for quite a time, she couldn't exclude the possibility that it was a lost memory. But how is that even possible? I can still clearly remember my childhood three hundred years ago.
Present
"Look, Lady Irene!" Erza exclaimed, blowing a puff of bubbles in Irene's direction.
Irene's thoughts were disrupted as she heard the child chuckle, gently wiping a few stray bubbles from her face. Irene blinked in surprise, not knowing she had been too preoccupied by that nonsensical dream.
"I'm sorry. Did it hurt your eyes?" she asked as Irene blinked a few times.
Sometimes, Irene hated how keen the child was, as she couldn't easily excuse herself with lies, as it might upset her. For a mortal her age, she was too empathetic. Usually, children her age are too egocentric, making Irene's blood boil, but it seems that this little girl's cuteness and kindness are why she was fond of her.
"Are you still thinking about your dream last night, Lady Irene?" Erza asked, forcing Irene to smile.
She was taken aback for a second. She was quite relieved that the child had no vessel for magic because if she did, she was sure she was reading her mind. Irene leaned forward as she gently washed Erza's hair.
"Yes," Irene said.
"Do you miss someone, Lady Irene?" Erza asked remembering how Irene cried in her sleep.
"No, it was just a haunting recurring dream that I had," she said as she scooped up some bubbles and playfully blew them back at Erza when she turned to face her. Feeling the gentle pop of the bubbles on her cheeks, Erza erupted into delighted giggles as she splashed Irene with water.
"That's unfair, Lady Irene. You caught me off guard," Erza stated as soon as she prepared for retaliation.
After finishing their bath, Irene gently lifted Erza from the tub, carefully wrapping a soft, fluffy towel around her small frame. Erza smiled, her cheeks flushed from the warmth of the bath. She patted the towel over Erza's hair, drying it as much as possible before reaching for the clothes on a nearby chair. Irene shook her head, seeing Erza's long scarlet locks cascading through the floor. She used her magic to undo Juliet's magic on her and adjusted it to her waist line.
"Let's get you dressed," Irene said softly.
Erza bit her lower lip, as she couldn't imagine the kindness she was receiving. She used to flinch when someone touched her, as she expected them to slap or hurt her, but with Irene, everything is filled with warmth and kindness. Just like the ugly duckling, Erza had finally found her Mama Duck.
"There, ain't my scarlet, lovely?" Irene said, stepping back to admire the cute little scarlet haired girl before her.
Erza was stunned to see herself in a winter dress. It was a beautiful deep blue, adorned with delicate embroidery and lined with soft fur to keep her warm in the chilly weather. Erza beamed up at Irene, twirling slightly to show off her dress before hugging Irene's knees.
"Thank you, Lady Irene! It's so warm and pretty!"
After changing into fresh clothes, they went to the dining room, where a hearty breakfast awaited them. The inviting aroma filled the room, making Erza's eyes light up with anticipation. As they sat down to eat, Erza noticed the empty chairs where Juliet and Heine usually sat.
"Lady Irene, where are Juliet and Heine?" she asked.
"Juliet and Heine had to head out early this morning. They're running some errands for the Queen," she explained. "But they'll be back soon."
"Really? Is the Queen a good person, Lady Irene?" she said, taking a bite of her food.
Irene almost choked on her food when Erza asked if her friend was a good person. She briefly remembered how eager Anna was to personally babysit Erza today. You know you can't just let Erza be under your care. I can't imagine such a gorgeous child turning into a warmonger like you! She recalled Anna's words, making her cringe for a moment.
"I guess that's for you to find out. The Queen asked me to discuss some matters with the headmaster of the Royal Academy, but I can't possibly take you there with me. Is it okay for you to be with the Queen in the meantime?" Irene asked, clasping the child's hand.
"T-THE Q-QUEEN?!" Erza exclaimed, stunned.
Erza's small hands clutched at the hem of her dress as she and Irene walked through the palace corridors, making their way to meet the Queen. Despite the elegance of the surroundings, Erza couldn't shake the fluttering of nerves in her stomach. The memory of her first meeting with the Queen was fresh in her mind—how kind and gentle the Queen had been. But the thought of spending time alone with her while Irene was away filled her with anxiety.
"Lady Irene," Erza pleaded softly as Irene was about to open the door.
"What if the Queen hates me?" she asked, hesitant to let go.
"Erza, you just act normally around her, okay? Even if Anna hates you, you will still have me." Irene paused and said, kneeling to Erza's level.
Irene gently patted Erza's head, causing her to lose her grip on her cloak. Erza nodded, trying to muster a smile. She was associated with others, but the idea of being without her, even for a short time, was daunting.
Irene uttered a chant under her breath, and the doors of the Queen's private chambers opened, revealing the Queen seated at a writing desk. She looked up and immediately smiled warmly upon seeing them.
"Goodness, Irene. It's still morning. Why the long face?" Anna pouted, seeing her friend traipsing in her direction as if walking her death march.
"Good morning, Your Majesty." Erza curtsied clumsily, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment as she emerged from behind.
"OH~! Hi, Erza!" the Queen greeted, shifting to her cheerful ambiance.
Irene rolled her eyes, seeing her friend's duality. Seeing her reaction, Anna couldn't help but tease the scarlet sage even more. She chuckled softly and knelt at Erza's level, extending her arms and asking for a hug.
"There's no need to be so formal, dear. Why don't you give the Queen a warm hug? Isn't that more polite for such a cute child to do to her auntie?" She teased, making her redder than before.
"Good morning, Queen Anna!" Erza beamed as she smiled at her, making Anna feel heavenly.
The child's smile is the most precious treasure she has ever received. This cuteness, how can she look precisely like Irene when she's got this cute expression? Anna asked herself as she extended her arms, but the child had not yet hugged her as requested.
"Oh," Erza gasped as she gently strode forward and hugged Anna briefly.
"Is that even a proper greeting?" Irene asked as she distanced Erza from Anna.
"You silly woman, I'm in charge of babysitting your daughter for now! You should leave and make haste. Give us some time alone, Irene." Anna asked as she grabbed Erza's hand.
"I'll be back, okay?" Irene reassured as she patted Erza's head before turning to hug Irene.
"I'll be waiting, Lady Irene!" Erza waved as Irene distanced herself a little before vanishing into thin air.
"Thank you for your kindness, Your Majesty, but I am not Lady Irene's daughter." She told Anna as she turned to face her, fidgeting her hands.
"Ah, I'm sorry, Erza. I misspoke," Anna tried apologizing to the child , who seemed disheartened by her words.
"There's no need to apologize, Your Majesty; it's just that I don't want Lady Irene to be offended. She is already so kind to me, so I wanted to be a good child to her," she asked Anna.
Anna couldn't help but be touched by the child's kind words. Her heart was full, and she couldn't imagine how blessed her monstrous friend was when the heavens had gifted her with such a brilliant and eloquent child. She might not be her daughter, but at first glance, one would indeed mistake her for her child. How cruel does the heavens for not giving me such a lovely daughter?
"Erza, do you want to look around the palace? I'll give you a tour, and please address me 'Auntie' instead of Your Majesty. No need to be more polite around me, kay?" Anna suggested.
With Erza's tiny hand, Anna led her through the grand hallways, pointing out various historical artifacts and beautiful art pieces that adorned the walls. Erza's eyes widened with awe at the sight of the palace's opulence. The high chandeliers and the intricate ancient symbols etched on the palace walls made Erza wonder at such art. Unbeknownst to her, something more magnificent awaits her as Anna pauses before a set of large, ornate doors. With a gentle push, the doors swung open to reveal a breathtaking sight.
"Wow," the child's mouth went agape in a gasp.
Erza's eyes couldn't believe the magical sight before her; the palace's greenhouse was warm and vibrant, filled with lush plants and flowers in full bloom despite the cold winter outside the palace walls. Vines climbed gracefully up the glass walls, and a myriad of flowers like roses, lilies, orchids, and the royal flower insignia of the royal family, clematis.
"It's so beautiful!" Erza exclaimed, stepping forward to touch the rose.
"Can I touch it, Your- I mean, auntie?" She paused as she marveled at the petals of a bright red hibiscus, reminding her of Irene's very striking scarlet hair.
"Of course," Anna smiled at Erza's words.
How can she be so lovely? Anna squealed as she watched Erza wander further into the greenhouse, her fingers lightly brushing against the soft petals and verdant leaves. "How do the flowers stay so beautiful in the winter, Auntie Anna?" she asked.
"The greenhouse is carefully maintained by magic to provide the perfect environment for the plants," Anna explained. "One of the archmage's subordinates is the palace's head gardener. He's tasked to regulate everything for the plants to thrive year-round."
"He must've loved the plants. It's thriving well, Auntie. Look," Erza said as she offered her a sunflower.
Anna accepted the sunflower, her heart touched by the child's sweet gesture. She smiled and lowered to her height as she patted her head.
"Thank you, Erza. It's beautiful," she said warmly. "But tell me, why did you choose a sunflower?"
"Because you're like a bright sunshine, Auntie Anna. You make everything feel warm and happy like a sunflower does." Erza said, her eyes sparkling as she spoke.
On the other side of the garden
Simon tended to his favorite amaryllis, carefully pruning the vibrant red flowers and ensuring each plant received just the right amount of water. As he worked, he heard his mother's voice from afar, filled with warmth and laughter. He paused, curiosity piqued, and turned to see what had brought such joy to her tone. From a distance, he saw Queen Anna walking through the garden, her hand wrapped around a small, red-haired child. The child was the same one he had met the other day.
"They seemed to be close," he noted.
Intrigued, Simon approached them, stepping softly on the garden path to avoid startling them. As he drew closer, Erza, engrossed in conversation, didn't notice his approach until he was almost upon them. Feeling a shadow hovering over her, she turned around and saw Simon standing behind her. She jumped slightly and hid behind Anna's back.
"Simon!" Anna exclaimed as she tried to reassure Erza.
"Oh, I'm sorry. Did I startle you, Mother?" he asked as he lowered his height a little to peek at Erza behind her.
Hearing them converse, Erza panicked, thinking she had offended the prince. She quickly stepped forward and curtsied as she greeted the prince. He chuckled softly, seeing her clumsy pose.
"Simon, you should've known better than to sneak up on people in the garden." Anna reprimanded.
"I didn't mean to sneak, Mother. I was just curious to see what was making you so happy." Simon grinned sheepishly.
Erza looked up at Anna, her cheeks tinged with a hint of pink. "We were talking about sunflowers, Your Royal Highness," she explained, still clutching the sunflower she had given to Anna. "I gave one to Auntie because I think she's like the sunshine."
"Auntie?" Simon gently raised his brows, surprised by their bond.
"But I don't want to steal Her Majesty, the Queen, from you. Lady Irene is my motherly figure; we're only friends." She clumsily explained as she fidgeted her hands, trying to reassure him.
Simon's eyes softened as he looked at Erza, touched by her cuteness and innocence. Isn't she lovely? Now I know why Mother likes her. He smiled as he teased her, making Erza cry. Anna hushed him and he chuckled as Erza burst crying.
Irene handed the old, white-haired man a stack of papers. After scanning the documents, he cleared his throat before returning them to Irene's hands. The gesture felt dismissive, and Irene's eyes flashed with indignation as she rose from her seat.
"Why are you returning these, August?" Irene demanded, her voice edged with irritation.
"I can allow the child to study at the academy despite her unclear background because the Queen has consented to it. However, the child cannot be exempted from the magic classes. It is a requisite subject for completion in the academy." He stated with a stoic face.
"You mean to tell me that even with the Queen's consent, the academy's rules cannot be changed? Does the academy's authority supersede the Queen's orders?" Irene asked, slightly raising her voice.
Still calm, August shook his head, trying to remain patient as he proved his point. "There is a law enacted to fully establish the academy, which includes the construction of its bylaws. You were one of the assignees of that decree, Lady Irene. The rules cannot be easily changed because it is the law. For any amendment, the Queen must propose a change, and the legislature must approve it." He paused, carefully reading the scarlet sage's irritated face.
"In a kingdom where magic is prioritized, it would be nearly impossible to gain approval for such a change in the council." He emphasized closing his eyes as he saw Irene's eyes flash red with anger.
"Are you telling me there's no way around this?" Irene clenched her fists, trying to control her temper.
He nodded, his expression firm but sympathetic. "Yes, that's correct. Magic is integral to our kingdom's identity, and the child's peculiar magic core cannot be enough to substantiate such excuse in such classes."
"But Erza is just a child. She has no core for mana. Forcing her into these classes could be detrimental." Irene said before taking a deep breath and attempting to calm herself.
"I understand your concerns," he replied.
"But the academy's rules are in place to ensure every student receives a comprehensive education." He added, making Irene surrender.
Her standing as the sage of the Scarlet Moon is equal to that of the archmage. However, since the kingdom places supreme importance over standing laws and the status of nobles, she feels powerless. Irene hates feeling powerless, especially when it comes to Erza's well-being.
With a reluctant sigh, Irene sat back down, clutching the papers. "Fine, but you have to take extra precautions so she will not be hurt during such classes. If anyone would dare to hurt, Erza, that is an insult to my name, and the law specifically states that I can punish anyone trying to challenge my name." She acceded but ended their conversation with a threat.
Anna and Erza made their way to the palace library, a grand room filled with towering shelves of books that stretched from floor to ceiling. The scent of old parchment and polished wood filled the air, giving the library a comforting, timeless feel. As they entered, Erza's eyes widened with wonder at the sheer number of books.
"Isn't it beautiful?" Anna asked, smiling at Erza's awestruck expression.
Erza nodded, her eyes darting from one bookshelf to another. As they moved deeper into the library, they spotted Heine standing by a reading table, arranging something using her magic. She looked up, blinking in surprise as she saw Erza walking alongside the Queen.
"I greet Her Majesty, the Queen. What brings you here, Your Majesty?" Heine asked as she greeted the Queen and bowed to Erza's direction, acknowledging her presence.
"I'm showing Erza around the palace. You may resume your duties; I'll assist Erza on my own," Anna stated.
Heine nodded and watched as Anna led Erza to a section filled with colorful storybooks. Erza beamed as Anna lent her a book, stating that it was her favorite bedtime story. Erza took the book, her fingers tracing the intricate designs on the cover. She wanted to tell Anna she didn't know how to read and write, but she hesitated, not wanting to embarrass herself or tarnish Irene's reputation. She forced a smile and hugged the book to her chest.
"Thank you, auntie. I'll enjoy this."
Anna smiled warmly. "I'm glad. Feel free to pick out any others that catch your eye."
Later that night
Heine shook her head in disbelief as she sat at a bedside table in her master's room, teaching Erza how to read and write. She recalled how Erza had asked for her help after their walk with the Queen. Initially, Heiad tried to deter the child, warning her with an exaggeratedly stern voice.
"I'll teach you for four long hours straight without rest, and I'm a very strict teacher."
To her surprise, this only seemed to bolster Erza's determination.
"I don't mind," Erza had replied with a resolute expression. "I really want to learn."
Damn. She cursed as she watched Erza diligently scribbling letters on the parchment; she mentally facepalmed herself for underestimating the child's resolve. Despite her initial reluctance, Heine couldn't help but feel a growing admiration for Erza's tenacity. It had been four hours since she taught the child, but she had never heard her throw a tantrum about the pile of books she had given.
If Lady Irene finds out Erza skipped her dinner because of this, I'm indeed dead. Seeing her almost done with her previous exercise, she tried to check the child's output.
"Alright, Erza," Heine said, trying to maintain her stern demeanor. "Let's see how you're doing with these letters."
Erza looked up and handed over the parchment filled with her attempts at writing the alphabet. Heine examined the neatly formed letters, her expression slowly shifting from skepticism to genuine marvel. The child's progress was impressive, especially considering their little time on the lessons.
"Can you read this?" she tried to challenge the child, which she easily read aloud before her.
Thinking it was just luck at the first attempt, Heine tried to let her read a passage from the book. Her eyes widened as she witnessed the child's brilliance. She couldn't help but be amazed by her academic prowess. She had been teaching at the magic academy for three years already, but the children's tantrums made her quit her job and become a librarian in the palace. I see, so this is the reason why Lady Irene cherishes the child. She thought to herself as she watched the child read the book.
"You're doing very well, Erza," Heine admitted, her tone softening.
"Yay, can I now write Lady Irene's full name?" She asked, reminding her of her request.
What if I can do it? Can I know Lady Irene's full name in exchange for every reading and writing within that time? Heine sighed in frustration, admitting defeat. Erza beamed as Heine whispered something in her ear.
Irene returned to her chambers, her mind still buzzing with the evening's events. As she entered, she was greeted by the sight of Erza and Heine sitting at a small table. Erza's tiny fingers clutched a quill, her brow furrowed in concentration. Irene paused in the doorway, a warm smile spreading across her face. Seeing how close Erza had grown to Heine, she felt a pang of jealousy. Noticing the slight creak of the door, Erza looked up and saw Irene; she broke into a wide grin. She hopped off her chair and ran to her, excitedly holding up a piece of paper.
"Careful!" Heine commented as she watched the child darting in Irene's direction.
"Look, Lady Irene!" Erza yelled in excitement.
Irene took the paper and looked at the carefully scrawled letters. In slightly wobbly handwriting, it read "Irene Scarlet." She laughed softly.
"It's your full name!" Erza beamed, her eyes shining with happiness.
Within three days
Erza could read and write without any assistance. Her progress was remarkable, especially for someone her age. Erza's rapid advancement did not go unnoticed. Whispers of her brilliance spread among the nobles, sparking curiosity and intrigue and prompting them to send letters requesting for an audience. Her resemblance to Irene only fueled the rumors of her birth as an illegitimate child of the sage. Some even commented on the possibility of the sage falling in love with a man during her absence, or maybe a hidden love child with the archmage.
A/N: That would be all, see you on the next update!