Shinn: MUSSE FANS, MUSSE STANS, AND MUSSE LOVERS! IF YALL ARE OUT THERE, Y'ALL EATING GOOD THIS CHAPTER! ENJOY!
Andrew: As long as it ain't random Musse smut at 3 in the damn morning...
Shinn: You said I wouldn't and I told you I was bored! That's on you!
Andrew: NEVER AGAIN!
Discord: discord .gg/ GZM5HRMntp
A/N: Also, I just want to say thank you all for following the story thus far (both new and old readers). The story is relatively new as it's only barely a year and a half old (or something like that) but the support I get from all of you and even the notifications of someone favoriting or following just means a lot so sincerely, thank you all. Y'all make writing all the more worth it.
"MUSSE EGRET! GET! OUT!" He shouts, feeling the strain in his voice from his fatigue.
"You shouldn't push yourself, Instructor~. You just woke up after all~."
"Musse…!" He growls, his body exuding heat for steam to emerge around him.
"Yes~?" She stops.
"If I turn around and you're butt-ass naked, so help me, I am going nut up. And I am not talking about the sexual nut." He adds for the girl to close her mouth about to jump on the chance at another tease.
"Ooh, pleasure me with a good time, why don't you teehee."
Taking a deep breath for the steam around him to simmer, he hesitantly turns to face the trouble maker. Donned in a frilly two piece blue swimsuit, she gives an innocent smile. Eyeing her, he turns away for her to give a slight pout.
This is the oddest deja vu ever.
Considering you saw a similar situation happen with your older self, it is quite relieving to already know what to say, no?
A perk of future sight I guess. But still…
"You are so petty." He snorts reaching for the bar of soap.
"Whatever do you mean~?" She smirks.
Turning to face her, he gives a shake of his head before sitting back on his stool.
"Considering the last time you wore that was during the contest you and Claire had, it's obvious you're trying to one up her." He states looking over his shoulder catching that calculating look he's seen numerous times before. "Um?" Arching an eyebrow, she moves over taking the cloth out of his hands. "H-Hey! I can wash myself!"
"Nonsense, Instructor~. After all your hard work, this is the least I can do for your services~."
"Musse!"
"Yes, my darling instructor~?" She coos, lathering the cloth in suds.
"Out!"
"Your mouth may want me out, but I can feel your heart wants me to stay~." She purrs, stepping closer, her eyes lowering to the bar-like mark wrapped around his torso.
Feeling her gaze on his back, Relon's arms instinctively move to cover up his marking. The action only giving the troublemaker more fuel to work with.
"My, Instructor, could it be that you're embarrassed~?"
"Over you being in here? Hell no! Over those perverted eyes of yours looking at my marking? Hell yes!"
"My, why is that?"
"I… It's always been embarrassing when people stare at it. (It feels like I'm naked.) Wait, why the hell am I saying any of this to you?! Get out already!"
"Awe, no need to feel embarrassed~. It's just me~."
"That's the reason why! What if Alfin-"
"She knows~."
A loud facepalm resounds within the bathroom.
"Of course she does." He sighs. "You're not going to listen to me, are you?"
"Nope~." She smiles kneeling behind him squishing the excess soap.
"... Damn it, Musse. Claire is going to kill me." He sighs accepting his fate.
"She won't~."
"And why won't she?" He finally turns to meet her smiling demeanor. "You're taking advantage of me in a weakened state."
"My, you make it sound as though you're painting me as a villain."
"Explain." He deadpans.
"The Icy Maiden has verbally and physically given me full oversight over you for the duration of the day until she is relieved of your duties. See for yourself~." She perks her chest, the edge of a concealed note sticking out of her top.
Blinking in disbelief and with a fluid motion, he swipes away the note earning a disturbing sound of playful pleasure form the greenette.
Relon, believe me when I say I truly, truly, did not want to resort to this option and would much rather have Laura or someone that isn't Musse watch over you. Due to the lingering presence of some public disorder, I as well as many of the RMP are required. With your classmates still laying low from the public, my options leave only a handful and considering the state you're in, my worry lies in you and not who can watch over you as I cannot. I have also sent the same message to your ARCUS in case Musse tried anything. Please get some rest even though Musse is there. If not for yourself, then for me. I'll check on you as soon as I can.
Claire
P.S. I REALLY did not wish for it to be Musse.
P.S.S. I know rest and Musse do not go well together.
Yeah. With how much ink is coated in some words, I can almost hear her voice.
Musse is an individual that can truly "get under her collar" I believe is the right term.
Very much so. Relon mentally chuckles to cease as his back becomes soaked.
"Hey!"
"We need to get you squeaky clean so do hold still." She smiles, an ominous aura very familiar to Relon forming around her.
"M-Musse, are you… upset by chance?" He slowly scoots away for her to land a firm grip on his shoulder.
"Now why would I be? It's obvious you're more preoccupied with a simple letter than me~." She smiles though her tone disregards such.
Nameless, save me.
No.
Bruh!
"Ahem!"
Snapping back to the young girl inching dangerously closer, he puts his arms up in defense.
"W-Whoa there, Musse, I was just-" Cut off by the surprisingly gentle touch of her hand turning his back to face her, Musse's once dark visage shifts to concern.
"Even though you have her, the least you could do is look at me too…" She mutters as she begins to wash his back.
Musse…
Ahem.
Don't even say a thing, you traitor. This could just be a plan of hers!
Hmpf. I did not take you for a heart breaker.
You did not just pout! And I don't break hearts! Only bones. Preferably belonging to Senate. Wait, that's not the point! Argh!
Exiting his thoughts, Relon takes a small exhale mustering what he can from within.
"I never said it back then, but…" Stopping for a moment as she peers to note of the slight blush visible on the teen's face, her slight pout ceases for pure curiosity to take its place. "You do look really cute in that." He murmurs.
Noticing her movements come to a halt, he takes the chance to reach for another cloth. Adding soap and water, he gets to cleaning his front. The unease bubbling inside quickly disperses as Musse resumes her efforts on his back. Feeling her pause after a few minutes of silence, he looks over to question why she stopped for his body to be pulled against her front.
(Thank you, Relon.) She whispers.
Shuddering at the closeness of her lips to his ear she pushes him back forward before returning to her duty.
"Y-Yeah…"
That's twice now she's thanked me. A part of me feels like I don't deserve it.
Hmpf.
And will you stop pouting, you child?
"Instructor…" She calls softly, gaining his attention.
"What's up?"
"How does it feel… to be seen and known as not yourself?"
Allowing her words to sink in, he ponders the thought for only a moment before speaking.
"I don't know." He shrugs. "What I do know is that Relon Lucinance and the Senate Hunter are two different people." He adds for the girl to blink taking in his words. "I'm still new to being a hunter but I know that people will only see me as one or the other. So I shouldn't let the duties of either identities impact the other. At least that's what I think."
"I see…"
"I'm always up for some advice." He chuckles to stop noticing her scrubbing come to a halt once more.
"Never let either intersect the other." She mutters. "If you assume the title of one, do not let the other slip in. Keep your two identities apart. The facade separated. That includes the people you interact with…"
Stopping his own scrubbing, his eyes narrow to the wet floor.
"And if both sides are compromised to certain individuals?"
"Then you must be that much more cautious with both your words and your actions." She mutters, leaning into his back. (Be careful, Relon.) She stops, her trembling palms scrunching against his skin. (If something were to happen to you, I-)
Turning around, Relon pulls the young girl into an embrace resting his chin atop her head to her surprise.
"I'm not going to say don't worry because that's impossible. As both your instructor and your friend as well as the one whom you intrusted your own secret to, believe in what I can do. I couldn't afford to fail before and I certainly can't now." Stunned, she slowly returns the embrace.
"... Okay."
Finally done with his time in the bath, Relon is the first to leave. His eyes having ignored the girl's underwear placed purposefully in the basket next to his as he dressed before falling back onto his bed. Taking a breath allowing his thoughts to roam, his faithful entity arises back to the surface.
Your emotions are conflicted.
Obviously. Relon mentally sighs. Right when I begin to understand her, Musse pulls out something else that leaves me at a loss for words. Rolling over to face the closed door to the bathroom, he sighs through his nostrils. I thought I didn't know her but to think she also has another identity… Just who are you Musse?
What shall you do?
Obviously nothing. He answers sitting up looking at the wooden floor. Like I said before, I'll learn more about her when we hang out.
You're referring to your group date.
Please don't call it a date. My head is already messed up with everything that has happened lately.
Though you understand you cannot leave something such as this be. After all, your future self referred to it as such.
I know…
Laura and now Musse. Both have declared their honest feelings towards you.
Uggghhh, I knoooooow! I can't even tell if what Laura said the other night was even a confession! Musse sure, but that's only reinforced by the Perception of Time, and… what happened a few moments ago…
You may need to speak with Claire.
And say what? That a few girls may have a thing for me and I don't know how to respond to them? Now I'm wishing I didn't get a glimpse at the future. Do I even respond to what they said?
Nothing from the teachings with your aunt seem to relate to this situation in particular…
Of course. He eyerolls. At times like these, I wish I knew what to do.
It is possible you need only to continue forward and pay no need to such feelings as they do not wish to affect your future work.
Either way, their feelings towards me will come to clash eventually. Whether I keep my relationship with Claire or not. I'm right back to the same predicament as the drive back the other night with Claire and Laura.
Such a "clash" shall be either natural or forced. If forced, then…
Claire, Alfin, Laua, Musse, anyone. If Senate tries anything to harm them, I'll make them suffer. Dearly.
Speaking of the royal princess…
I HIGHLY doubt I'd get married to her. My new social status as the Senate Hunter combined with the political ordeals that would cause for both the people and her family… just no. I'm good just being her bodyguard. Don't get me wrong, she's grown into a beautiful young lady and all but, too young still and just… no. I'm not putting her into who knows what kind of drama and danger that'll follow me.
Hmm, Alfin is a no but Musse? She is slightly younger than her.
… Musse acts way more mature than she lets on. I sometimes forget she's 14 while Alfin and Elise are 15. But let's be real. We both can't see me as some prince.
Envisioning you as a lord with women fits more.
"EXCUSE ME?!" He gasps to cover his mouth. "You just teased me. Like Musse-level teased me. Please don't do that ever again."
Haha, it is rather amusing seeing such reactions from you. But I can see it.
Me and a bunch of women, pfft. I don't see it.
You amongst your throne. Claire at your side accompanied by Laura on your other. Musse and Alfin resting at your legs. Quite the image if must say.
Your mind is scary, Nameless. What's more scary is how easily I can imagine that. Jeez, my head resting on a hand with an amused or stoic demeanor. One leg crossed over my knee. All the girls looking longingly- and OKAY THAT'S ENOUGH! Regardless, only time will tell as well as the events that'll follow.
Shooting back up catching his breath, he hears the door opening to reveal Musse. Donned in a simple sweater and skirt ending past her knees, she walks over to the young man.
"Who were you talking to? Your sudden outburst nearly gave me a fright." She chuckles while taking a seat next to him.
"Ahaha, sorry about that. Nameless was saying some odd stuff."
"Nameless?"
Blinking at her, he facepalms.
"The spirit living inside me." He gives an awkward laugh.
Eyeing him with an odd look, it doesn't take much for the girl to burst into a fit of laughter. Attempting to stifle her outburst, her efforts prove to no avail.
"How could you forget to mention something as important as that?" She laughs.
Well at least her reaction compared to Claire's is different.
It's as though she is acting her age.
Acting her… huh. Taking in his words, he looks at the jovial young girl doing just that.
"You're actually acting your age for once." He says dumbfounded, the comment making the girl pause, cough into her hand and readjust to sit properly. "There's nothing wrong with acting your age. Especially around me of all people." He says knowingly falling onto the bed.
Laying properly, he slaps his pillow to pat the spot next to him.
"You're… not going to ask about…"
"Nope." He shrugs, getting comfortable as he closes his eyes. "I'll ask when we hang out. Still too exhausted to move around much less talk for extended periods."
Laying down on her side, Musse's lilac eyes gazes at his still face.
"Relon, could I…?"
"Go ahead. I'm too tired to fight back nor am I going to bother remembering whatever you do. But if you even think about leaving another kiss, I won't hesitate to burn your lips." He opens a single eye lazily taking sight of her curious though mesmerizing gaze, the slightest hint of pink rising to her cheeks as he closes his eye. "Goodnight."
Beginning to feel his body relax, Relon feels Musse inch closer resting against his chest.
Any complaints?
I think we're both too tired to go on. He mentally chuckles patting the girl's head before he allows the darkness to take him.
Day 4 - 6 PM
Beginning to come to, Relon immediately realizes two things. One; the sun is already setting indicating the late evening. And two; the absent weight no longer against him. Rolling back over, he finds Musse asleep.
Huh, you know, she actually looks cute asleep when she's not faking it.
Infatuation I see.
It's just a speculation I'm making, jeez!
Carefully getting out of bed not to wake her as he had with Alfin, he walks over to the balcony finding a still absent crowd.
I guess the city more or less went back to normal after the people vented out their anger.
Though much of the damage remains. Relon spotting graffiti and some vandalized areas around the plaza. What shall you do now?
I'm still sore but compared to Senate, getting punched and kicked a lot is nowhere near as bad so I can at least walk. He says heading back in, Pippin and Pappan floating towards their friend and owner. Besides, I would prefer to walk the streets without incident instead of maneuvering through the city so it's about time I find out if I can or not.
Attaching the swords to his waist, he does one last check before walking back to the balcony with Pappan now in hand.
Aren't you forgetting someone? Or would you rather suffer the wrath of the Icy Maiden much less the Deadly Trinity as a whole?
You're seriously not titling Laura, Claire, and Musse that, are you? I thought that was a joke back in the car.
It is a much better title compared to the names you have come up with I believe.
Well excuse me! Crescent Strike and Clustering Cinders I got with the help of Klaus, Uncle Victor, and Laura thank you very much! Flare Blitz is cool as hell! Solar Impact is my ace in the hole when no one is around so it has to sound especially good!
While manipulating magic, you called that attack Crescent Horizon. Forgive me if I am incorrect even though I believe I am, but wasn't that just two Crescent Strikes fueled with the power from you "Solar Impact?"
… I don't like you sometimes.
Point proven. Case closed. I believe that is the correct saying.
"Hmpf." Relon ignores walking back to Musse. (Do I seriously have to wake her? She looks peaceful as is. With the stress I put on her as well as Alfin, rest seems like the best option.)
Relon… Nameless calls in a knowing tone.
"Fine." He sighs walking over to her side of the bed.
Rustling her shoulder, it doesn't take much effort for the teaser to awaken. Lilac eyes fluttering suit, they meet Relon's vermilion.
"Evening, Sleeping Beauty." He greets resting his hand on his hip.
"Instructor…" She sits up rubbing the sleepiness from her eyes. "What time is it?"
"Six in the evening."
"Oh. Wait, repeat that?!"
"Seems we both needed some rest." He snorts having never heard her exclaim like that. "I was going to let you sleep but someone said otherwise." He looks to the ceiling. "That and I didn't want to deal with you females being mad at me."
"Well then, I am relieved you made the smart choice." She fixes herself standing to her feet.
"I question if it was right." He dismisses. "Seeing your cute and peaceful face was quite a sight."
"I-I-Instructor?!" Hearing a snicker, he gives a smirk over his shoulder for her to widen in embarrassment.
"You're not the only teaser, you know." He grins raising an arm blocking the young teen's attempt at hitting him only to pout. "Awe, does the teaser not like being teased~?"
"Touche, Instructor. Touche…" She twitches an eye.
"Alright, that's enough for me. Let's get going." He walks over to the balcony followed by Musse.
"Where are we going? And why are we going this way? The door is that way."
"To check up on a few things." He answers, stopping now looking over the city.
"Then why go this way?"
"Because I have a faster way of traveling." He adds gripping Pappn tightly to slash the air opening a rift.
"What in Aidios…?"
"Come, come." He beckons, reaching out his hand to take hers. "Looks intimidating. Totally harmless and fun. I promise."
"What is it?"
"A portal leading to a rooftop over at the plaza." He answers for Musse to look not seeing the anomaly's exit.
"It won't appear unless we go through." He chuckles as Musse moves close to his body. "Ready?" A nervous nod.
Walking through, an array of red colors flash for only a second before their eyes are facing the buildings.
"See? Harmless." He muses, Musse herself looking down below at the plaza and then to the palace itself.
"Incredible…"
"I'm still getting the hang of Pappan's power so this is the most distance I can cover for right now." He comments, gaining her attention.
"So you may be able to travel further than this?" He nods to her question.
"Hopefully I'll be able to travel between cities with a single slash. Only time will tell." He says slashing another portal open.
"Where are we going?"
"First stop; the hospital." He answers departing into the portal for Musse to glance one last time before going in after him.
Hospital
After a few portals, Relon and Musse end up in his hospital room.
"Is this your room, Instructor?"
"Yeah. Kept it after I woke up in case I wanted to check on Noro and the others." He answers, both walking out and down the hall.
Stopping not long after, he knocks before sliding the door open.
"Brother!" The voice of Noro calls as Musse peers in to find the Namikaze family around Noro in bed. "And Musse!" She smiles as both walk in.
"Hey Noro, everyone."
"So now we're just 'everyone', huh?" Silver comments to get a hit upside his head by Blaze and Cecily. "Ow! What was that for?!"
"Phrasing." Both women answer.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Musse." Blaze greets. "Relon has told us a lot about you."
"Oh, the pleasure is all mine. I owe a great deal to Instructor Relon."
"Seems someone got more sleep." Yujiro notes. "Even got your chaperone with you."
"Sleep is always needed." Relon adds taking a seat at the foot of the bed meeting Noro's eyes as Musse takes one of the vacant seats.
"How are you holding up, Relon?" Blaze asks.
"Compared to dad's training, that was nothing." He shrugs. "Now going roughly four days with no sleep? That was a challenge."
"But you're done now." Cecily states matter-of-factly.
"Done with what?" Noro wonders, all looking to Relon who doesn't miss a beat. "Dealing with a lot of angry people. One at a time, Noro."
"Are you alright?"
"Compared to you, I got off easy." He smiles patting her head. "So what's the plan tomorrow?"
"The plan is after the funeral, your class will be escorted to Celdic along with us and from there, you all return to school."
"Sounds good. Anything come up?" He asks Noro, the young girl shaking her head. "Hmm."
"What are you thinking, Instructor?"
"Noro, can I see your hand for a sec?" Tilting her head for only a sliver of a moment, she nods innocently. "Let me know if you feel anything, okay?" Another nod as his left hand holds hers.
Exhaling a breath through his teeth, he focuses his heat slightly elevating it.
"Anything?" A shake of her head.
Adding a little more, Silver wipes his forehead as beads of sweat begin to form.
"Still?" Another shake for him to let go.
"Feels like a furnace over here." Silver mutters. "How do you do it, uncle?"
"You get used to it." He answers without taking his eyes off the two.
"Okay then. Ready, Nameless?"
Yes.
Moting her hand so only their index fingers are touching, vine-like markings form across his skin.
"No explosion?" Silver arches an eyebrow.
"Burnt out on being mad." Relon speaks with his distorted voice. "Noro?"
"Nothing."
Ceasing his transformation, he purses his lips in thought as their hands lower.
"I'm not normal… am I?"
"Reta…"
"Nope." Relon answers bluntly, gaining their attention. "You're just like me. The opposite of normal." He grins at the girl. "Just makes you cooler than everyone else here. Welcome to the club, sis." He grins for Norowareta to smile before giggling at his antics.
Relon… Cecily looks on with a smile. Whether you're both bound by your bond or something else entirely, you know how to support each other better than I ever could.
"So what now?" Silver wonders.
"Now…" Relon glances to Musse and then the door, the young girl nodding to depart closing it behind her. "I plan a trip to Ashland. The answers are there according to my mom. Just gotta figure out who all is going and when to leave."
"Who all do you have in mind?" Blaze asks.
"Aside from myself, Rean, Laura, Emma, and Prince Olivert. So far that's it for certain."
"Keep the royal family in the loop. Smart." Yujiro comments. "As well as that witch." The comment making Cecily's body stiffen for a moment.
"Considering my mom is a witch, I bet there is a thing or two magic-related. I'm sure my classmates will want to come but right now, I'm still iffy on the idea."
"What about us?" Silver wonders.
"I don't mention you guys because Ashland, in case you didn't know, is quite up there heat-wise." Especially once you're inside my clan's home. The heat doesn't affect me but even I can tell it's uncomfortable for normal people. Dad was only able to endure so much because… well, he's him. So unless I can figure out a way to get around that, searching with even a few more eyes and hands will still be difficult and long considering how the place is. Not to mention, if any of you come, who'll watch over the orphanage? Unless dad is going to come and miss out on possible intel that'll help against Senate."
"When you put it like that…" Blaze mutters.
"I'm not saying no. I'm just saying we need to solve a few issues before that time comes."
"How soon are you looking at this happening?" Yujiro questions.
"In under a month. Senate is too active now and with how things have been, we can't afford nor do I want to put something like this off."
"We have a rough draft." Cecily speaks gaining their attention. "Now we just need to plan accordingly. Personally, I would like for us all to go but we can't leave Celdic defenseless should something happen."
"You're suggesting the kids go." Yujiro notes for a nod to come.
"I'll remain in Celdic while they go to Ashland. You'll need to keep on your normal route, Yujiro."
"In case Senate has learned my pattern over the years." A nod from Cecily.
"Sephiroth mentioned not being able to enter Ashland but I don't know if the same can be said for his Leaguients or if that is even true. The forest guardians may have numbers and the ability to respawn but that doesn't guarantee they can fend off a Leaguient much less a few if not all of them. Though unless Krovanh, Agria, or Asuma can both get past and open the entrance, we should be safe. Here's to hoping one of their weapons isn't too busted."
"Alright, it's settled!" Silver punches his open palm.
"Don't get ahead of yourself, Silver." Blaze sighs. "Remember what got us in the hospital?"
"Erk! S-Still…!"
"Don't worry." Cecily speaks gaining their attention. "Until then, I'll be training you both just like I did with Relon. We can't afford liabilities should the worst happen."
"Mom…!" Both widen in joy.
"Relon, keep in touch." Cecily reminds.
"I know, I know." He says hopping off the bed walking to the door. "Don't go easy on them." He grins departing.
Closing the door behind him, he looks down the hall at an awaiting Musse.
"Thanks." He speaks, nearing her.
"Don't mention it. Though it was nice to meet the entirety of my future family-in-law~."
"Aaaaaaand you're back to normal." He sighs, the two entering his room to disappear through a rift. "Greaaaaaaaat…"
Guild
"Do me a favor. Act normal, please."
"My, when have I not?"
"Musse…"
"Fine~. I will be on my best behavior." She gives a light pout.
"Thank you." Knocking, he's soon greeted by Sharon.
"Master Relon, a pleasure to see your well being." She bows. "Who might your acquaintance be?"
"Musse Egret. A pleasure." Musse gives a curtsy as they enter.
Shivering, Nameless speaks.
Are you well?
I don't know why, but seeing Musse and Sharon speak just gave me a very nervous feeling in the pit of my stomach.
An omen?
An ominous omen.
"RELON!" Snapping from his thoughts as all of Class VII piles in from every corner of the building, he can only twitch an eye as they all talk over one another.
"Guys…? H-Hey, can I… Guys?" Struggling to get his voice out between his friends' voices and Sara's drunk self, he twitches an eye irritably. "Guys…" He growls for all to go silent though not because of him.
Feeling a pair of arms wrap themselves around his arm, his eyes furrow as Laura's narrow with everyone else's going wide.
"Good evening, everyone." Musse smiles. "It's a pleasure to finally meet my darling's classmates~."
As if equally as loud as a bullet, the sound of a painful facepalm resounds in the air.
"For Aidios' sake, Musse…"
"HUUUUUUUUH?!"
Dinner
"Damn I needed that~!" Relon gives a relieved sigh from the freshly brewed tea courtesy of Shanon, all of Class VII seating at a long table tending to their dinner. "Shanon, we so need to exchange recipes. Your tea is phenomenal!" He raises his glass for the maid to giggle.
"My, your words humble me Master Relon. I would be honored~."
"Well at least we have nothing to worry about." Gaius chuckles.
"Here I was thinking of the worst shape he could be in." Machias grumbles. "Why do I even bother."
"Because you care like the rest of us." Elliot chuckles, easing the bespeckled teen's mood. "Right Jusis?"
"Hmpf. Care isn't what I would use."
"Oh Jusis, stubborn as ever~." Sara coos waving a mug of beer.
"I am not stubborn!" He growls hitting the table.
"You can deny it all you want but you still being here says it all, Jusis." Relon grins for the blonde noble to twitch an eye irritable before seating himself with crossed arms.
"Ha! Even Relon can put a trap to that mouth!" Machias slaps his knee in laughter.
"He is not the cause you insolent dolt!"
"And here they go." Rean sweatdrops.
"Oh dear." Elise sighs seated next to her brother.
"Some things never change." Fie quips with a fork in her mouth on Rean's other side.
"You guys make it sound like those two have… been… to… war… Correction; you make it seem like those were separated." Relon adds.
"I'm sure they would miss one another." Fie smirks.
"WE WOULD NEVER EVEN IN HELL!"
"Denial is only the first step, boys~." Sara hollars for both to groan.
"Teehee, your friends are quite the lively bunch." Musse notes.
"Never a dull moment. Especially at dinners like these." Relon replies taking a bite of his roll.
"So Relon." Aurelia begins peering past an slightly bothered Laura drinking her own glass of tea. "I believe introductions are in order, no?"
"Introductions?" He tilts to look at his friends returning their focus to him.
Blinking, his eyes go to Laura to his left looking out the corner of her eyes, Moving to his right, a seemingly innocent Musse smiling.
"Oh."
"Yes. Oh." Laura answers. "Do explain as to why she of all individuals is here."
"Well, that's because-"
"My, is there a problem Ms. Arseid?" She purses her lips in thought. "Could it have anything to do with Instructor Relon and I's budding bond~?"
"Oh boy." Relon sighs, taking another sip.
"Musse, please don't." Elise sighs.
"Instructor Relon?" Gaius arches an eyebrow.
"A nickname I earned from my two days as a teacher."
"That definitely fits your tutoring skills." Emma chuckles.
"Budding bond?" Alisa copies the foreigner's gesture.
Raising a hand to answer, Laura beats him to the punch.
"Pay no mind to the misguided illusions this one plays. Her words are filled with only that which will rile the body!" Laura denounces while yanking Relon's arm away from the greenette.
"Laura, calm down."
"My, you make it sound as though I'm a seductress but my heart yearns only for my dear instructor~." Musse retorts, pulling him back.
"Musse, you too."
"Why?" Both questions.
"Can't I just eat in peace?" He wonders to no one in particular.
"HEY!" Looking to the source finding Sara, 13 cups of beer scattered around her portion of the table, everyone can only sweat nervously at what comes out of her mouth next.
"Instructor, could you-"
"ONWY WUN AWWOWED TO HOLD EM IS ME! HIS INSWUCTOR, HIC!" She shouts waltzing over and yanking Relon from the two.
"Somebody save me- OOF! Mmm Mmm!" Relon tries to sigh only to be pulled into a strong embrace.
"Oh my." Sharon blinks.
"Someone… help…! Suffo… suffo…" He struggles from her bosom.
"Instructor, release him at once!" Laura exclaims attempting to pry him from her grasp alongside Musse.
"Yes, you're choking him!"
"NOOOOOOOOOO! HE'S MINE AND I WAS SO WORRIEEEEED!"
"Should we help?" Machias wonders.
"NNNNNNO!" Sara answers.
"YES!" Both girls answer.
"Okay Instructor Sara, I think-" Snapping her head to Rean approach while seeming to not struggle at holding the Luciancne back from the two, she yanks him closer to leap over their heads and onto the table. "That's enough… Oh boy."
"YALL WAN EM, COME IN GET EM!" She cheers picking up another beer and chugging.
"Here we go again." Alisa sighs, she and the rest all getting to their feet surrounding the woman.
"Sara… let Relon go." Fie articulates.
"Nnnnnnno."
"Instructor…" Machias calls nervously.
"Hmmm?"
"Mmm mmmhmmm!" Relon sounds trying to pry himself from the woman to no avail.
"Milady, shall I tend to her?"
"Hopefully we should be able to handle her but stand by just in case."
"Understood. Have fun~."
"What part of saving our friend from our drunk instructor is fun?" Machias deadpans.
"Shouldn't we move the table first?" Elliot wonders for the class to blink.
"I would like for our food to not go to waste if possible." Gaius voices.
"I got it." Fie speaks up opening the door to the main room. "One thing about Sara when she's drunk is she's pretty oblivious to simple stuff."
"Ha!" Laura shouts, leaping at the woman to backflips onto the ground before jumping into said room.
"See?" Fie shrugs, Class VII and Musse surrounding the teacher.
"Okay Instructor Sara, we can do this the easy way or the hard way." Rean cautions.
"Maybe Relon doesn't want to be saved. (I know I wouldn't. Lucky bastard.)" Machias mutters to gain the enraged looks from both females. "We're coming, Relon!"
As the class inches closer, so too does Sara's hold on Relon.
"Wets pway, kiddies~!"
Kicking off, Fie rushes from her teacher's flank for Sara to toss Relon into the air. Gasping for air as do the others out of surprise, he feels his body get grabbed as Sara jumps after him landing on the railing among the second floor with Relon over her shoulder.
"Why… me…?" He drops his head.
"Instructor/Relon!" Dashing at her, Sara salsas past Machias and Jusis before jumping off the wall over Elliot and back to the 1st floor.
Lowering him as if to uses as a dancing partner, she maneuvers through Fie and Aurelia's attempts.
"Give…!" Laura growls missing his hand by centimeters.
"Him…!" Musse adds.
"Back!" Both lunge for her to switch spots with Relon.
"Um…. no. Bleh." The woman sticks out her tongue to whip her arm, losing their grip on her as she picks Relon up bridal style before Emma and Alisa can get him.
Twitching in irritation, Laura and Musse circle the woman as do Rean, Elise, Fie, and Gaius. All exchange glances to nod. Attacking her front, Sara tosses Relon into the air for Rean and Fie to feint upwards towards him.
"Oh ho, no ya don't~!" Sara denies about to jump for Musse, Laura, and Elise to grab her alongside Gaius putting her in a full nelson. "Huh?"
"Gotcha!" Rean says, the duo catching him on the staircase as the others rejoin them.
"Heeeeeeeeeey, give em baaaaaack!"
"Relon, are you okay?"
Coughing for air, he blinks a few times regaining his bearings.
"I'm leaving Class VII!" He blurts for the teacher to only laugh.
"Haha, silly child."
Child? He twitches in annoyance.
"I know yer not weaving us because you don't have a deathwish~. Riiiiiiiight…?" She narrows.
"... Maybe." He challenges, a surge of power resonating from Sara as she easily frees herself from the three's grasp sending them to the ground.
"Why challenge her?!" Machias berates in panic.
"I thought she was bluffing!"
"Sara doesn't bluff when she's drunk." Fie notes.
"Now you tell us?!" Jusis exclaims.
"Haaaaaa, this is so much fuuuuuun~. Hic." Sara stretches to assume a bare-handed fighting stance.
"Oh Aidios, she's l-l-looking our way…!" Elliot steps in fear.
"Guys, we need a plan!" Alisa exclaims.
"Em, can't you use your magic?!"
"On our instructor?!"
"YES!" Everyone blurts for her to jump slightly.
"Before she-" Blurring out of sight, Rean and Fie can barely react as Relon vanishes to reappear in the not-so-safety of Sara's arms.
"Why m- Mmff!" He mumbles as she hugs him tightly. "Silly Relon, challenging your instructor. You know better~."
"Instructor!"
"Me or him, girly?" Sara tilts her head not at all bothered by pushing Relon into her rack.
"MINE!" Musse hisses irritably.
"Teehee, come and get him~. He ain't going-"
Before she can finish her taunt, the entrance door opens behind.
"Greetings every…one…" Standing in the doorway; one Claire Rieveldt.
Donned in a casual outfit consisting of a white flutter sleeved top and jeans with ankle strapped shoes.
Blinking at the odd state of everyone, her eyes meet Laura and Musse. Both equally as surprised to see her. Shifting her eyes ever so slightly, she freezes.
Now, Claire Rieveldt has had a lot on her plate. Ever since becoming Princess Alfin's bodyguard, her schedule became quite busy. On top of being awarded her efforts as an RMP officer by her boss, Giliath Osborne, in the form of promotion to major, she has only gotten busier. On top of recent events in regards to Senate and Relon, she obviously hasn't had it nearly as hard as her lover but she's had her fair share of frights and stress-filled moments. Like they said the day they became official, one would come should the other need it. Celdic being her way of coming to help.
After the events of fending off numerous hostiles (much of whom was dealt with by Cecily), Senate, the unfortunate revelation of Relon's evil family, the brief meeting of his good family, the hundreds upon hundreds of rioters and protesters wanting her lover's head alongside herself and the others, she was relieved for the blissful night rest for him and herself. Being in the close proximity of Relon has always eased her ever since she righted herself after the defeat of Arentula. She felt safe. The warmth only further adding to the affection she quickly gained for the man. To the cause for ensuring his safety.
Seeing his honesty and determination flare in the short time she knew him was truly admirable. It took no fool to understand just how much he felt towards his given goals. With his status and the tools at his disposal, it's clear he can accomplish much. But even without such things, even before knowing of him as a non-human, she still felt something about him.
Who knew that something would lead to her gaining feelings over the course of three years. Who knew exchanging letters over the course of three years would make her unsure feelings only more certain. Yes, she's read romantic novels of such things on long distance relationships and how that impacted the characters both in fiction and nonfiction. But for such odd feelings to become more and more understandable as the months went on only made her yearn for such normalcy more.
Looking at her life before Relon, she could understand why numerous individuals mentioned "a new life beginning" once one gains a lover. She has by no means forgotten her past. How could she? The struggles she went through, the hardship she faced. It all seemed so familiar to what Relon was going through. Did she have the right to compare their lives? No and she knew that. Their own situations were similar, yes, but they were not the same. Even if they were, she would not stoop to such levels as to assist him out of pity. He didn't deserve that and she herself was above such a thing. But her life now with Relon wasn't that bad. Yes, she had conveyed her honest thoughts to Laura during their car ride that night and much of it was true, albeit she had to shift around the wording of her relationship with Relon. But that too was because they did not want to disclose too many of their relationship.
If there was something she envied was not knowing him long enough on a personal level. Hell, even Laura knew more about him than even Claire. And Musse… just ugh. Admitting Musse to be superior in a field regarding her man felt like she was forced to taste bleach mixed with venom. Relon is 17 and she herself is 20. Laura seems to be around the same age as Relon and Musse is 14. Between her and them, their age differences of three years line up with Relon's own age preference. Though considering those two are the only females Claire knows of to be close to him, her worries did not lie there. In fact, she had no worries to begin with once Relon began his life at Thors. It didn't strike her until she dropped him off on his first day that with Relon going to Thors, his encounter with numerous women his age would be only certain. She had the occasional thought of Relon with another girl but she never felt worried. She trusted Relon and considering the person he is, she honestly felt no need to worry. True, his unfortunate luck was a thing that she was aware of as he detailed just how bad it can be at times during his three years of training under his adoptive father but that was something even he admitted rarely occurred. And she already knew from their exchange about Laura as well as Rean.
Whenever they talked through letters or orbal phone, he legitimately answered anything she asked without a second thought. She wanted to ask why he answered the way he did but felt the answer to be as obvious as Musse playing one of her tricks. He trusted her. The same as she trusted him. This culmination of feelings they had for one another may seem short considering they've roughly been official for only a month but through their communication they were able to understand the other without having to be in person much less a relationship thanks to their three years of exchanging letters.
So did she love him? Such a word was something Relon surely knew of but didn't say. Him knowing, moreso understanding the concept, was hard to determine as he himself was learning much on emotions. She knew he cared for her and she obviously cared for him but to what lengths? She felt like her senses were in Overdrive themselves during the warzone last week. Fighting alongside Relon, the moment before he went and fought against his evil brother, all of it; it made her realize just how vastly different he and her really were and how much she cared for him. But even then, that wasn't enough to state her being in love. Aidios, even she didn't know what love was. She understood the affections she had for Relon and through common logic, the stronger she felt the more she was likely to be in love. So then how come she didn't know? Considering they've fought side-by-side more than once now, with their lives literally on the line, and gone through some other things, surely it couldn't be that hard to discern like from love… right?
Days prior to their first ever argument as a couple, she questioned many things just like in the books. Did he not care for her own feelings? What was he thinking? How could he go through with something as insane as being a punching bag?! These and other thoughts plagued her mind as she locked herself within the confines of her room. The longer she thought of him, the less she began to remain mad. His actions, his emotions, even his mentality towards becoming the Senate Hunter. Her mind clouded her own judgment not out of spite or hurt but confusion. Something she's read about in the books. How could anyone be so blind to something so obvious? Yet that exact phenomenon occurred with her. Oh the irony.
Relon is selfless. Beyond such that it frightens her how selfless he is. She was baffled by his hatred for being protected but even more at the length he went. His determination truly is his greatest strength but also his worst weakness because should Senate attempt anything with the state he's in, he cannot fight back. Maybe it was love that she felt for him. After all, time is but one factor in a relationship…
"No matter how bad it gets, I want to fight through it. Together."
They made a vow after all and she planned to honor it. That was why she decided to set out today and reinforce the city's defenses. No corner left unturned, no documentations unflipped, she wanted nothing to surprise Relon today. She even commanded a squadron to inspect the sewers. Something Lechter was not keen on doing but went with anyway.
"If Relon's happy, then you're happy. If you're happy, then you're not moody. If you're not moody, then I'm happy." Of course his words were met with a smack to the head followed by a glare, only the light stuff he's grown accustomed to since working with her.
Though only for a day, she wanted Relon, after giving himself to the harshness of the enraged citizens mourning their losses, to have a day of relaxation. A day with as little stress as possible and she knew only one individual that cared equally for his well being whom would ensure he wouldn't push himself. And thankfully, they too were equally as worried. Three counting Laura and Alfin but both could not waltz everywhere without eyes peering on them. Though it shocked even the Icy Maiden for Musse to not put up an act or make a joke in regards to their relationship she solved which didn't surprise Claire in the slightest. No. It was genuine care and concern written all over her and Alfin's faces. Even if for only that moment, Claire could understand how Relon believed in Musse. A tease 99.99999 percent of the time but that one moment, that one tiny decimal, she would show true self would prove to be a part of her Claire could honestly respect. Even if she still didn't want to on the off chance she tried something with Relon.
So here Claire Rieveldt was. Finally relieved of her duties for the day and thus her time as the Icy Maiden. Now all she wanted to do was rejoin her lover for what may be the last night they will get to spend together before he returns to Thors. Notified by Relon himself of being with his classmates, it was only a minor walk from the palace. Calculating the ways to rid herself of Musse once she retrieved Relon, she had to pause such thoughts. It wouldn't be fair to just abruptly take him back home. Much less futile as Musse has special permission by Alfin to enter. Ceasing such trivial matters, she simply focused on spending what time she could with him, Relon Tarbin Namikaze-Lucinance. Not the Senate Hunter, not Princess Alfin's first personal bodyguard, not an elemental being slash hybrid. Just him and her. Preferably alone snuggled together with no one to interfere. All she had to hope was for Relon to not be in any kind of situation.
Locked on the sights of a struggling Relon and an obvious drunken Sara holding him obviously too tightly, everyone stiffens at the cold glare Claire wears.
"Drop him."
After all the work she had done, seeing the one person she despised the most hold her man to her chest, oh yes, she was officially beyond pissed.
"Nuh-uh!" She pulls out another thing of beer before downing it. "Ahh! Why don'tcha make-" Unable to finish as a shot of electricity strikes her forehead, Sara drops a does Relon.
"Oof. Headshot." Fie mutters
"Oh… my Luna… air!" He gasps, his nostrils sucking in air as the others rush around the two.
"Instructor/Relon!"
"I… hate… breasts, ugh." He breathes out shaking his head. "Thanks for the save, Claire." He and everyone looks to find the policewoman looking down at a now sleeping Sara.
"Wake up." She orders uncaringly, rustling the woman with her foot.
"Mmm, five more minutes~." She waves rolling over.
"Tch. Unbelievable. The same as ever." She discards her gun into her back pocket before turning around.
"My, it seems you all were able to subdue her." Sharon praises walking out of the dining room. "Well done, everyone."
"We didn't even do it. Major Claire did all the work in the end." Alisa sighs.
"Her draw on the gun was faster than I could react to…" Aurelia mutters still in shock.
"Well she is a crack shot with it." Relon adds slowly getting to his feet watching the policewoman depart without a word.
"Um, Major Claire?" Elliot calls as she exits.
"Seeing as Instructor Sara has been dealt with, that's our que to get going." Relon announces.
"What about dinner?" Laura asks, she and Gaius helping Sara up.
"We'll just grab something on the way or cook something ourselves." He shrugs. "Besides, I need to talk with Claire about tomorrow." He explains, Musse stepping next to him.
"Be careful, Relon." Rean reminds.
"I know, I know. See you guys tomorrow." He bids.
"It was a lovely experience meeting you all." Musse bows, both departing.
"I'm glad they didn't try to keep us." Relon sighs in relief.
"Teehee, they only care."
"I know." He says reaching the sidewalk to spot Claire under a light post gazing at the few stars above.
Hearing the sounds of footsteps, she takes notice of Relon and Musse. Not saying a word, Relon smiles walking off as both follow at his sides.
"Why didn't you break free with your heat?" Claire questions.
"Because she's my instructor." He answers without missing a beat. "That and she wasn't drunk shortly after, right Musse?"
"I noticed her speech pattern and tone shifted somewhat though with the situation at hand, I had little time to think on the matter." She chuckles, rubbing her sore body.
"Then why didn't you-"
"Because she asked me to play along." He says looking over his shoulder at the woman. "When Fie opened the door and Instructor Sara bursted into the main room, she whispered for me to play along. Most likely wanted to measure where we each were without our weapons. As frustrating as it is, she's still above us. Just like… everyone else." He begrudgingly accepts.
"Though she seemed to have forgotten the idea after drowning in another bottle." Musse shudders slightly. "To think she carries alcohol on her person. Quite a frightening foe."
"When I revealed my powers, it took me and my classmates to calm her down. And we were using our weapons. Ugh." He shudders at the memory. "Still." He stops as do the two females. "I'm sorry for putting you both through that." He bows his head.
Looking at him in mild surprise, Musse glances out the corner of her eye to Claire whose own expression remains neutral before her eyes lower as a breath escapes her.
"Sara always has some sort of interior motive so I shouldn't have been surprised for her to pull something and yet… Ugh."
"Haha, I understand." He raises his head to Musse.
"It's frustrating." She says looking to the ground. "Unlike you all, I am not a fighter so-"
"Being a fighter doesn't make you weak." Both state in unison shocking each other plus Musse.
"Hey, great minds think alike." Relon grins. "You've got the smarts being practically on mine and Claire's level of intellect if not higher. Not to mention your help with the orbal camera led to us not being surprised by the villains we fought."
"Instructor…"
"Musse, you're a lot of things and I have to admit a lot. But even I have to say that your mind is the greatest amongst your arsenal. Being a fighter doesn't always have to relate to violence. All of our back and forth bickering has made that much clear." She crosses her arms sporting a small smile.
"Major…"
Silly me. How could I forget such a simple fact. I nearly forgot my very cause for coming here…
"Thank you, both of you."
"Don't thank us. Just don't forget. That's an order." Relon waves dismissively as they begin their trek once more. (Besides, you've thanked me way too many times.)
"Hehe, I won't Instructor Relon~." She grins latching onto his arm.
"H-Hey! Let go!" He attempts to wiggle free to no avail. "What's with women latching onto me?!" He growls.
"Let her be." His eyes widening at Claire's exasperated sigh. "It will be sometime before we can be together so you may as well let Musse get her fill. Considering she's had you all day, she certainly has no problem with being dropped off at Saint Astraia." Claire smiles eerily for Relon to shiver.
"Teehee, none at all~."
"Bah, women. I get no respect."
"We respect you." Claire corrects.
"This is just our way of showing such~."
At least the Deadly Trinity aren't together.
So you do like the name. I shall note that down…
Oh hush up, Nameless…
Saint Astraia
Giving Relon a warm embrace, Musse eventually steps away.
"Thank you again for everything, Instructor." She smiles.
"You don't need to thank me. I'm just doing what anyone else would do. So stop thanking me so much, sheesh."
"Hehe, not many would say much less do what you do though~."
"Oh boy." He rolls his eyes though his grin remains. "Get some sleep, Musse." He says patting her head, a tint of pink appearing on her cheeks.
"How shall I sleep without the warmth of your body~?"
"Get a blanket."
"How cold!" She pouts though she quickly loses it. "Sleep well, Relon." Her caring smile gracing her features once more.
"You too Musse." He smiles back, departing from her room.
Reaching out her hand as the distance between them grows, her mouth goes agape for nothing to come out. Pulling back, she gives a wry smile. She's had her time with Relon. Claire gave her it so it was time to give him back. But still…
"Hey Musse." Snapping from her thoughts to Relon looking back at her, a warm feeling begins to rise in her chest.
"Being there for me today…" He scratches his cheek trying to word it carefully. "Both this morning and a little while ago. Even these last few days. My mind hasn't exactly been as positive so… thanks." He averts his gaze from her own.
Feeling that warm sensation bubble to the surface, Musse takes one step forward hugging him from behind.
"Musse?" He turns to feel a gentle sensation grace his cheek making his eyes widen.
Snapping to her, she steps back with her arms behind her. A happy smile gracing her features.
"We may not be lovers yet, but what would you say to being partners~?" She coos for his eyes to widen.
"We're not lovers, only partners." The voice of his future self rings in his head.
Blinking at her as his mind processes what to do, his ARCUS chimes snapping him from his stupor. Seeing it to be Claire, he puts it away. A soft chuckle escaping his lips.
"First rule of dealing with Musse; don't let down your guard yet I always do. Maybe I'm just soft with her…" He muses to himself, his eyes going back to Musse who seems taken aback by his words. "Partners, huh?" He walks towards the girl who tucks her head slightly in as if nervous of his answer.
Noting this, he mentally smirks. Raising his hand to her chin, he lifts her head. Musse's unsteady lilac eyes meeting his still vermilion. Seeing her cheeks completely red, he grins now satisfied with his own teasing.
"I like the sound of that." He grins walking out and closing the door behind him.
That was… ahem, interesting.
I saw a moment to tease her and I took it. And as for what exactly our "partnership" is can be discussed when I take her and the girls out.
I see what you're doing.
Instead of having a possible love triangle with me in the middle, I would like to differentiate my position with them. Claire as the lover, Laura the best friend since childhood and Musse as a partner. It's the best I can come up with.
There is the possibility that they each may use such titles to "corral" you.
… Let's pray to Luna they don't. As well as Senate not trying anything. He shudders at the thought.
Leaving the school to nod his thanks to Shaggy and Scoob, he walks out finding Claire eyeing him.
"Care to explain what took so long?" She arches an eyebrow while resting her arms under her chest.
"Musse being Musse. That and establishing a few things. Hopefully she'll ease up on her teases and taunts because of it. Though nothing's guaranteed." He explains.
"I see." She responds in acceptance, both hearing murmurs for their eyes to note of the civilians staring and commenting as they pass.
"Seems the Senate Hunter isn't as hated at least."
"But Relon Lucinance isn't as loved either."
"That's fine. As long as my friends and family still care, I'll live. Come on, we should get going." He walks past her withdrawing Pappan for a hand to grasp his. "Claire? What are you-"
"I'm quite exhausted after today." She cuts off intertwining her fingers with his. "So if it's okay with you, let's take our time." She smiles.
Stunned for only a moment, his agape mouth closes for his lips to curve with a nod of approval.
"Alright. Though are you sure? If people see us like this-"
"I don't care. The media is already hounding for information on the Senate Hunter. May as well give them something to play with." She states as they depart down the capital illuminated by its many lights.
"That sounds like something Musse would say." He chuckles.
"I can be playful too, you know."
"As can I." He grins, neither paying the peering eyes on the many attention. "That reminds me."
"Hmm?"
"I'm planning a trip."
"A trip? Isn't that too soon? Especially-"
"To Ashland." He interrupts, Claire taking a moment to think as she turns back forward.
"Your mother?" He nods.
"She left something for me not to mention I still haven't found many answers to my new questions. I'm hoping a few things there will shed light on our situation. As well as what happened back then. All I have now are pieces scattered around but not enough to make the full picture."
"... Who are you thinking of bringing?"
"So far just Laura, Rean, and Prince Olivert. Possibly Emma since she's a witch like my mom as well as Silver and Blaze."
"So seven in total will be going…" Claire murmurs as the two cut through an alleyway.
"Huh? What do you mean seven?"
"Laura and Rean are two, your step-siblings make four, his highness is five, Emma is six, and yourself is seven."
"And you makes eight." He deadpans.
"... What?"
"Obviously I want you, the woman I'm dating to go. Figured that was obvious so I didn't mention you."
"But-"
"But what? I'm asking Claire Rieveldt, my girl… my girl… For Luna's sake, you know…"
"... Pfft haha."
"Not funny!"
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry." She wipes a tear from her eye. "It's just seeing you stumble over something so simple… hahahaha!"
"Well excuse me for finding it easier to say lover as opposed to girlfriend!" He crosses his arms to blink. "Oh, well would you look at that." He shrugs for his stomach to growl.
"Shall we get going?" Claire smiles, taking his hand in hers once more.
"... Yeah. Let's. I've missed cooking." He smiles, the two departing once more.
"You're still recovering! Let me do the cooking." he chides.
"But my night tea…!" He whines holding his stomach with his free hand.
"You tell me the ingredients and I'll make it."
"No can do. That's my only secret concoction and I cannot give it to anyone." He shakes with an apologetic grin.
"Not even to me?" Claire wonders playfully as if taken aback.
"Not even to Noro."
"Wow." She blink with a coy grin. "That's some top-level secrecy."
"My apologies, madam." He says in a butler-like tone with a bow.
"I'm sure I'll crack that secret sooner or later. I am a lot of things after all. It just so happens being a detective is one of them."
"Add beautiful to the list." Pausing under a lamppost, he takes in her cheeks going flushed. "I was told by a professional that women like hearing that." He grins.
Looking longingly at him, her lips purse as she leans forward taking his lips. Only for a few seconds do they remain touching before she pulls back to wrap her arms around his while resting her head atop his shoulders.
"Let's go home." She smiles.
Still recovering from the public kiss, he nods.
Day 5 - 9 AM
"It just had to be cloudy, huh?" Looking up as the dark clouds blanket the sky, Relon's gaze falls upon the soldiers and RMP march along the streets.
The civilians of Heimdallr litter the sidewalks so thick, one couldn't even tell that there were sidewalks. The funeral was something he wasn't looking forward to. Because of his connection with Senate, he truly did feel at fault for their lives being snuffed out so suddenly. Yes, he knew that there was nothing he could do at the time. But that was what made it so frustrating, what made him speak out in the throne room the way he did. There was nothing he nor anyone around could have done. That feeling of helplessness, of weakness, was another source of fuel for his unsteady heart.
Now, he stood on a rooftop where none, if very few, could see him. He wanted to stand right there next to the royal family and honor them but with how the people and his relationship are, watching from a distance felt like it was for the best…
4 PM
Hours passed, the funeral having shifted from the streets of Heimdallr to its cemetery. Each name being read aloud by Osborne himself. Even his tone was somber. Relon couldn't tell how bad he felt or whether it was an act. A part of himself wished he didn't think like that but another part couldn't help it. Looking on, he saw the royal family stand before their people. The emperor and his wife at the center with Alfin on the empress' right and the two princes on Eugent's left.
Averting his mind upon Alfin's brother, Relon's mind began to wander. He'd rarely ever dealt with much less interacted with Cedric. The young boy's body was weak so he remained under heavy supervision, unable to venture to school like his sister. As such, he rarely stepped out of the palace for anything and thus didn't require Relon's assistance. Aside from their first meeting, he hadn't even spoken to the boy. Only giving passing greetings when he was Alfin's bodyguard. Still, there were times at the palace in which he watched over the both of them alongside the family's maids and butlers though his priority remained with Alfin.
Seeing his highness out and about put Relon at ease in an odd sense. Though he couldn't help but worry for how much longer he could hold out. Huh, that reminded him of Noro in a way. What an odd comparison.
Taking sight of Alfin walk past her father to the microphone, she began to speak. Donned in her royal attire, Relon took a moment to look at himself. Wearing the common black suit and white dress shirt, he had to adjust his tie still not used to how suffocating it felt around his neck. Then again, this was the first time he has ever worn one.
"Though no longer of this world, they remain within each and every one of us." Alfin speaks to pause to which a low applause reverberate throughout the air.
Bowing in thanks, she lifts glancing over her shoulder. Her eyes meeting the hidden eyes of Relon from his hiding spot atop the hills.
She wants to call on you.
"I know." He sighs.
6 PM
Looking over the plaza from his balcony, Relon donned in his casual attire remains still. A knock coming from his room's door though he does not respond. Hearing the sound of footsteps near, he breathes a heavy breath.
"We both know it's too soon for me to stand before them, Alfin."
"I know that. But still…!" She stops next to him. "You're a civilian of Heimdallr too."
"Not in their eyes I'm not. Not anymore."
"Well you still are to me."
Smiling, he opens an arm to which she embraces him.
"Thanks, Alfin. That means a lot coming from you." He says hugging her back.
6:30 PM
"Here."
"What is it?"
"An ARCUS. I requested one directly from Prince Olivert himself. Consider it a gift with our new partnership established."
"Will the Senate Hunter always be so cold?"
"Only to those he plans to take out."
"Then you can lose the stiffness around your friends and I, no?"
"... I don't know how you do it, Musse."
"Practice."
"Heh, I'll be getting a lot of that. If anything comes up, I want to be the first to know."
"Senate related I presume?"
"Anything that will put anyone's life in danger."
7 PM
At the outskirts of the city, Relon stands on a rooftop alongside Yujiro.
"Watch your back. The world is a cruel place."
"The world isn't cruel. Only the people in it." Relon corrects.
"Quite the mentality you have going on, Senate Hunter."
Yujiro vanishes with a leap as Relon drops down onto the street below where two vans await him. Turning around, he looks to his classmates.
"Ready, Relon?" Laura steps forward.
Taking a moment to respond, he nods. Packing into the van, only Relon and Rean remain.
"How are you holding up?"
"Sadly, I'm fine. Only frustrated. You?" Relon muses, neither taking their eyes off of the vans in front of them.
"Feeling the same honestly. That moment with Demeter…" Rean begins only to scrunch his face shaking his head to release a long breath through his nostrils.
"Next time, Rean."
"... Yeah. It'll be different."
Reaching for their respective van's handle, both stop sensing a new presence. In sync, they turn to their right towards the corner. There looking on is a boy no younger than a few years of their age. A slim build with blue hair and light fuchsia eyes.
"Kurt, what are you looking-" Stopping next to the boy, a woman most likely his mother stop next to him eyeing the two. "Come along, Kurt, we must resume your training." She beckons walking back from where she came.
"Yes, Mother." He nods turning to leave.
Looking to the two for another moment, he departs out of sight.
"Well, that was… odd." Relon blinks.
"That was the Vander family." Rean speaks. "Aurelia had stopped by their school a few times within the last few days."
"Oh, that makes sense. Now that you mention it, I remember speaking with the Thunder God a few times about his family and school being on this street."
"I'm surprised you never stopped by."
"I never had a reason to. Dad's training and watching over Alfin was my priority at the time."
"And now? What are your priorities now?"
"... Making sure no one else dies."
"Hey, you two, come on!" Silver calls from the front van.
"Coming! We should go."
"Yeah."
Departing into the car, Relon takes the back seat next to Laura, Aurelia next to her. In the driver's seat; Claire. In the front passenger's seat; Cecily. In the three seats behind them, the Namikaze sibling trio. Behind them; Laura and Aurelia with the seat closest to Relon open.
Taking a step into the car, Relon pauses.
"Relon?" Laura wonders.
"There's no way they would be…" He mutters, Pappan slowly unsheathing itself.
Snapping on a dime, Relon raises his arm as the sword zooms out and towards the sky before disappearing into the clouds. Saying nothing, all look for the sword to eventually return.
"I guess not." He muses, the sword returning to its place as he gets into the car.
"Would Senate be cunning enough to keep overwatch like that?" Aurelia wonders to no one aloud. "To have a repeat of what occurred in Lunaria Nature Park so soon with Barbatos…"
"Considering Sephiroth wants me to grow as a Lucinance and his mention of the Leaguients becoming impatient, I wouldn't put it past them." He narrows looking out the window of the passing buildings.
Walking out from an alleyway, a silhouette becomes visible.
"It would seem he is showing precautions…" Muttering those words, they walk back into the alleyway to vanish in a light.
Celdic
Stepping out, Relon flies into the air to take a look at the construction going on around the town. Numerous machinery and workers alongside the civilians he's come to know hard at work. The inn as well as the orphanage's skylight fully repaired along with its flooring of the main room. Shifting to the Grand Market or at least what of it he can make out, a wry smile graces his features. The crater once in the middle of it all now having been filled in as some stalls already littered with various goods stand in its place. Lowering to the market, he breathes a breath of relief.
"My, it is lovely to see such a familiar face." Turning to a familiar elderly man walking his way, said man graces Relon with a smile.
"Mayor Otto." Relon smiles back for it to falter. "I'm glad everyone's alright."
"We have you and everyone here to thank that no one got injured, my boy."
"I just wish I could say the same for the Grand Market…"
"Bah, the market has been remodeled numerous times in the past. Something as minor as that won't slow us down."
"But still."
"Celdic's strength doesn't come from its commerce."
"Huh?"
"Those were the words your grandfather once told me. " He smiles resting a hand on Relon's shoulder. "Celdic's strength comes in the form of its people. You understand, no?"
Looking at the man without a trace of falsehood, Relon's lips curve upwards only slightly.
"Yes, sir. Thanks."
"Do not let what's happened lower your spirits, lad. Many may harbor ill feelings for the lie but know that Celdic still cares for you deeply." Widening, Relon can only look on as the mayor winks before walking off.
"Thanks mayor."
Walking back up the incline, he takes sight of many of the townspeople engaging with his friends and family. Principal Vandyck and Sara speaking with the Mayor as the orphans along with Silver, Blaze, and Norowareta. Null curled up in the girl's lap.
"They're thankful." Turning to Claire, he nods.
"Happy to still have a place they can call home."
"Once things are situated here, we will continue on back to Thors."
"Alright. I'm going to check on the park again before we leave."
"Be careful." She cautions as he elevates back into the air.
"We will." He bids hopping on Pippin and flying off.
Park
Landing in the clearing, his eyes gaze at the familiar setting.
"HEEEEEEEEEEEY! GRUNOOOOOJAAAAAAAA!" Waiting a moment of silence, a loud roar in the distance comes. "Well, at least he knows I'm here." He chuckles, both swords floating at his sides as he departs further in.
Stopping before his grandfather's and the Great Elder's graves, he pays his respects before looking up.
Grunoja isn't around.
Possibly resting or tending to business further in.
I guess so. Turning to leave, he pauses. The memory of Emma appearing before him the other night resurfacing.
"She mentioned a transportation device being further back…" He muses walking through the brush. "Looking back on it, I've never bothered coming here." Stopping before a cave hidden by shrubbery, Relon enters to find the device as plain as day. "Dad certainly was good at hiding it. I would never have a needed to come this way."
Are you going to touch it?
"Hell no! I don't know how it works and if I do, it may react bad and then I won't know where I'll end up much less how to get back."
You say that but your inner child is itching to investigate it.
"... I don't like you sometimes." Dismissing the entity's smartness, his eyes go to the device glowing. "What's-" Cut off by a bright light, he lifts his arm as the brightness dies down.
"Alright, we made it!" A familiar voice sighs in relief for his arm to lower.
"Rinwell?"
"Huh, Relon? What are you doing here?"
"I could ask you the same thing."
"Grandmother wanted me to give this to Emma." She answers, the two now reaching the clearing as she holds out a pendant. "She forgot it when she was back in the village."
"What does it do?" He arches an eyebrow at the item.
"It allows for one to find her." Both snap to the voice before them as a girl becomes visible out of thin air. "Should you have the corresponding pendant."
Zooming forward, she vanishes in a light before Pippin can pierce her.
"Nameless?!"
I cannot sense her!
"Neither can I!" He growls. "What I want to know is why?!" He growls looking frantically back-to-back with Rinwell.
"Would you like to know why?" The young girl questions in a monotone voice for both to widen snapping behind them to meet her.
Seeing her hand resonate a familiar pitch-black flame, Relon's blood runs cold. Thrusting it towards Rinwell, she widens for Relon to burst in front of her with crossed arms. His left burning in flames.
"I knew you would do that." The assailant says continuing her attack to feint high striking his abdomen with an open palm.
At first, nothing. Then an intense pain as if his flesh is seared away erupts for black flames to burst from him.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!" The sheer force pushing Rinwell and Hootle away and off their feet.
"RELON!"
Ending in a shockwave, he falls on all fours before gripping his abdomen.
Re...
"Name...less...! Sen…aaaaaate…!" He growls looking up to the cloaked figure.
"Valkyrie!" Rinwell recognizes for Relon's already boiling emotions to further seep.
Placing a hand at her waist revealing a tome, she pulls her hood off revealing her face. Donned in a witch-like robe with the black coat overtop, the young Leaguient has short, silver hair in a bobcut fashion with aqua-colored eyes. A stoic demeanor on her face. Age-wise, she seems to being Rinwell's age.
"It has been some time since we last spoke, Rinwell. Oh well." She dismisses returning to take sight of Relon slowly getting up with the help of both swords.
"Ishmelga… gave you something… didn't he…?" He raises his head, his slitted eyes shaking violently.
"Yes. Otherwise you would have found my presence back in Heimdallr. Do you expect us to be so incompetent as to pull the same trick twice? Surely, the Senate Hunter would know how we think."
"Damn… you!" He roars punching his fist for nothing to come out. "What the?!"
"My lord's power is of the divine. Using such to rid you of the very marking that symbolizes your heritage was rather easy for him. He only needed time to prepare."
"Rid of…?" Widening in realization, he grits his teeth. "Nameless!" No response.
"Stubborn I see."
"Purge Malevolence! Freeze Lancer!" Rinwell chants unleashing spears of ice towards the Leaguient.
"Hmpf." Wordless raising a hand, a barrier forms for frost articles to obstruct her vision.
Sliding behind her, Relon swings both blades at her blind spot for static to resound sending him and Rinwell away sprawled to the ground.
"Hoot…"
"I'm… okay…" She shakily gets to up.
"My body…!" Relon winces.
I still haven't fully recovered! Damn it, this can't be happening!
"Pippin!" He shouts raising his sword for it to drag him away as he grabs Rinwell by her hoodie.
"Pointless." Valkyrie mutters flipping through her tome for it to glow white, the two colliding into a dome sending them to the ground.
"To think we were ordered to hold back. I struggle to see what my lord wants with you."
Scrunching his hands against the dirt, Relon's form begins to tremble as he slowly gets up once more.
"Rinwell… you okay…?" He calls in a tired voice hunched over, his face hidden by his fringes.
"Y-Yeah. What should we-"
"Wait for my signal..." He orders, both swords going to his hands as he takes off.
"A frontal assault? You-" Cut off, her eyes take sight of his throwing Pippin like a blade towards her.
Vanishing in a light, she reappears behind him with a glowing hand now white. Stopping on a dime pivoting his body, Valkyrie halts her attack as he's now facing her. Pappan nearing her neck. But the blade isn't what she notices. What makes her halt her eyes are his slit eyes. But not even the changed pupil but rather the dullness they wear.
His reflexes just increased. But his body shouldn't- No. At first! Raising her hand, Pappan's edge meets it resulting in an explosion of light sending both back. What's going on? How is he- Cut off as both blades zoom through the smoke, she vanishes into the air.
Sensing Relon on the move, she catches him running to jump landing on Pappan acting as a platform for him to launch at her with Pippin in hand.
"Having him gain experience would prove viable…" Sephiroth's voice echoes.
I need to use that now. Hand coated in black flames, glyphs rotate around her hand.
"Don't think I'm just going to sit by and do nothing!" Snapping her eyes out of her corner, she sees Rinwell in midair.
She's in the air too? How- Taking sight of Pappan under her, Valkyrie narrows. He used his sword as a footing for himself and immediately made it continue towards her direction.
"Tch." Raising her flamed hand in front of her, a barrier forms.
"Celestial Hammer!' Four beams of light clash as they slowly pierce the magical dome melting through. "Don't underestimate me! I realized how those shields of yours work! Go, Relon!" Slamming her hand on her tome, Rinwell's art bursts with power breaking the front of the Leaguient's shield off.
I have no choice.
Slashing Pippin, it clashes with her flamed hand. The ground exploding in black flames as black and white particles whirl around them.
"What's happening?!" Rinwell gasps landing on Pappan.
Eyes locked and focused on the Leaguient, neither give in as the surge of flames and particles increases until a bright flash of black and white ripples their vision.
A/N: Welp, hope yall enjoyed this chapter. Musse is obviously by this point one of my top 3 favs in the series and I've been BEYOND eager to write these last two chapters. Finally crossing those off the list is SO satisfying. I know these last few chapters may have felt like Alfin and a few characters were overshadowed by Class VII but I did that for a reason. Just bear with me. Considering how big Warzone was, I want to take the time to focus on those that didn't fight. Trying my hand a political writing in regards to Relon was/is a challenge and I hope to deliver that better in the future.
Now then, a brief summary of what the hell been happening. KURT APPEARED! Brief, I know, but exactly how I wanted it. Another thing off the list. We've seen Ash, Musse, and now Kurt. I wonder which of New Class VII will be teased at next~. Musse hints at her other life to her beloved Instructor. Seems they'll have more in common than it seems. The next Leaguient makes her move out of nowhere. Leaguient name: Grimoire. Real name: Valkyrie. And she's another witch. One Rinwell recognizes too. I wonder how that'll go. And finally, Relon has no Nameless and no fire. And what's with that dullness thing? Let's see how he and Rinwell will get out of the mess they're in. At least they got each other as well as Pippin and Pappan. Boy, he cannot get a break.
The next chapter is gonna be possibly a big one (not 42k). Maybe 20k-30k. Maybe a little bit more. I want to keep to my goal of the specified number of chapters remaining before I cool it with this story so apologies for those who prefer shorter chapters.