Chapter Rating: T
Chapter 13- This feels right
After a long night of drinking and gossip, Anastasia carried the two back on her celestial caravan, swaying to and from as she was under the influence. It was expected of Vanessa and Anastasia to have too much, but somehow Grey was coaxed into too much wine as well. The rowdy girls struggled to stay put on the carpet, shifting far too much as they attempted to keep themselves upright.
"So like, how far have you gotten with Gordon?" Vanessa asked with a hiccup.
"Oh we just kissed a bunch…" The cosmos mage said, waving her hand "But the things I would love to due to him…"
"Gib me Ideas for when I try to talk to Gauche" Grey slurred.
"Just turn into Marie" The thread mage said.
"Ya, he'll be all over you" Anastasia chimed in.
The night air was filled with laughter as the mages floated back toward the base on the shimmering magic carpet. The stars above twinkled brightly, their light mingling with the colorful glow of the carpet as it wobbled unsteadily through the sky. Anastasia, her cheeks flushed and her eyes sparkling, giggled uncontrollably as she tried to focus on steering the carpet.
"Okay, okay, hold on tight!" she slurred, her voice carrying a mix of determination and amusement. "I got this!"
Vanessa, sprawled across the carpet with an arm lazily draped over the edge, laughed at the cosmos mage's attempt to maintain control. "You sure, Anase? You're zigging more than a drunken firefly!" she teased, her words slightly slurred but full of mirth.
Grey, who was usually shy and reserved, was now anything but. She sat cross-legged in the middle of the carpet, her inhibitions vanished under the influence of the evening's festivities.
"Whooo! This iss the best ride ever!" she exclaimed, raising her arms above her head and swaying to an imaginary tune.
The magic carpet dipped and swayed, responding to Anastasia's tipsy attempts at guidance. It veered left, then right, causing the girls to squeal and clutch each other for support. Their laughter echoed across the night, mingling with the rustle of leaves in the trees below. The cosmos mage blinked, trying to concentrate as she peered through the haze of her own amusement.
"Okay, okay, I think I see the base! Or is that a tree?" she wondered aloud; her voice filled with playful confusion.
Grey leaned forward, peering over the edge with newfound boldness. "I don't care! This is the most fun I've had in ages!" she declared; her usual timidity replaced by an unexpected confidence.
Vanessa chuckled, reaching over to pat the transformation mage on the back. "You're a wild one tonight, Grey!" she said, her laughter infectious as she joined in the revelry.
Despite the chaos, the carpet gradually descended toward their destination, guided by Anastasia's instincts and a bit of luck. As they touched down, the girls tumbled off the carpet, landing in a heap of giggles and tangled limbs.
"Nailed it!" she announced triumphantly, holding her arms up in victory as she lay sprawled on the ground.
The three of them lay there for a moment, catching their breath and reveling in the shared joy of their adventure. The night might have been a little wilder than expected, but it was one they wouldn't soon forget.
"Hey what's all this?" Magna said to who was outside fighting Luck again. "You ladies drunk?"
"Of course we are, Virgin Delinquent!" Said Vanessa.
"Sounds like fun!" Luck said cheerfully "Anyone wanna fight?"
Anastasia's eyes sparkled at the challenge, and she hopped up from the ground, a sudden sense of sobriety coming over her.
"Gemini, hear my call!"
A shimmering aura surrounded her, the air around her crackling with celestial energy. In a flash, two elegant daggers appeared in her hands, their blades glinting like twin stars. The daggers pulsed with a vibrant light, their edges sharp and sleek. Her daggers flickered with a soft, ethereal luminescence, and she spun them effortlessly between her fingers, feeling the connection between her and the celestial forces coursing through her veins. Starlight swirled around her legs, condensing into bands of radiant energy that wrapped around her calves and ankles. The celestial glow imbued her with enhanced agility, her movements becoming fluid and swift as if she were dancing in the very light of the stars. Her stance was confident, and her gaze was focused, ready to take on the happy berserker.
"Seriously?" Magna growled in disbelief.
"Ooh we get to see Anase's magic in action!" Vanessa shouted, pulling Grey to the sideline.
"Really?" An excited grin spread on Luck's face as he giggled "You're going to do it with me?"
The cosmos mage's expression mirrored that of her opponent "Try to keep up, baby!"
With a burst of speed, Anastasia lunged forward, her steps light and graceful as she moved with the agility of a comet streaking across the night sky. Luck laughed with a delighted intensity, the thrill of battle coursing through him. Blue lightning crackled around him, sparking to life as he summoned his reinforcement spell. The air hummed with power as Luck's magic took shape, forming armor around his arms and legs. The armor resembled that of a dragon, complete with sharp claws and talons that glinted under the moonlight. A pair of jagged horns emerged from his head, crackling with energy, adding a fierce touch to his appearance. Her daggers sliced through the air with precision, leaving trails of starlight in their wake. Luck dodges, leaving a trail of blue lightning in his wake.
The clash between the two mages began with a burst of energy, starlight meeting blue lightning in a dazzling display. The air crackled with tension as the two opponents launched into a fierce close-quarters combat, their movements a blur of speed and precision. Anastasia moved with the grace and agility of a dancer, her Gemini daggers slicing through the air with cosmic precision. Each swipe of her blade was met with a counter from Luck, whose lightning-infused armor absorbed the impact, sending sparks flying with every collision. His dragon-like claws and talons glinted as he expertly blocked her attacks, moving with an effortless fluidity. Luck's strikes came fast and hard, his punches and kicks charged with crackling electricity. The cosmos mage deflected them with swift movements, her daggers parrying each blow, the starlight surrounding her legs enabling her to dodge and weave around his attacks with incredible speed. Their battle was a symphony of light and sound, the celestial glow of her magic entwining with the electric blue of his.
'Is she actually matching him?' Magna thought, a scowl forming on his face, disturbed by the wild cheers of her drunken friends.
As they fought, they were evenly matched, neither giving an inch. Her daggers clashed against Luck's armored limbs, while Luck's fists met the resistant shimmer of her magic. They moved as if in perfect harmony, each testing the other's limits, their laughter and excitement echoing through the night as they reveled in the challenge. With every strike and counterstrike, the intensity of their duel grew, their powers intertwining in a brilliant display of skill and strength. It was a battle that pushed them both to their limits, yet neither showed any signs of backing down, fueled by the pure exhilaration of facing a worthy opponent. Luck, his chest heaving, leapt back to put some distance between them, the exhilaration in his eyes shining brighter than ever.
"This is so much fun!" Luck declared, his voice a mixture of laughter and panting. "Don't give up, Anastasia! I don't want to stop yet!"
Equally breathless but driven by the thrill of the fight and the liquid adrenaline pumping through her veins, she flashed him a determined smile. "Don't worry, Luck. I've got a long way to go before I stop!" she replied, her eyes glinting with resolve.
Without missing a beat, she lunged forward, her form a blur of motion. She swiped at Luck, her daggers slicing through the air with deadly precision. Luck dodged to the side, grinning as he anticipated her next move. But as he twisted away, he realized too late that the cosmos mage he saw was merely an afterimage, a clever trick of starlight bending around her true form.
"Gemini infusion: Twin star!"
The real Anastasia appeared to his side, her speed amplified by her spell, and delivered a powerful kick with all the force she could muster. The impact was explosive, sending Luck hurtling through the air, crashing into the wall of the base with a resounding thud. Debris and dust billowed around him as the wall crumbled, leaving a sizable hole in its wake. Despite the force of the blow, Luck's laughter echoed through the chaos, his eyes shining with unrestrained delight. Anastasia stood poised and ready, the afterimage fading behind her. Her chest rose and fell with each breath, her determination undeterred. As the dust settled, Luck emerged from the rubble, his grin unfaltering.
He brushed the debris off his shoulders and looked at Anastasia with unbridled enthusiasm. "That was amazing!" he shouted; his excitement undiminished. "Let's keep going!"
She nodded, her heart racing with anticipation. "Bring it on," she replied, ready to dive back into the fray with renewed vigor, her spirit as unyielding as the stars themselves.
Luck's grin widened as he picked himself up from the debris, the thrill of the battle still surging through him. He took a moment to assess her tactics, his keen eyes catching the subtle distortions in the air where her starlight had bent reality to create an afterimage.
"Alright, let's see how you like it!" he called out, his voice brimming with excitement.
Channeling his blue lightning, Luck crafted a shimmering afterimage of himself. The illusion darted forward, crackling with energy, while the real Luck moved stealthily to Anastasia's side. The afterimage seemed to lunge at her, drawing her attention for a split second. In that heartbeat, Luck struck, using the same maneuver she had executed just moments before. His kick connected with her midsection, sending her flying backward through the base's front door with a thunderous crash. She skidded across the floor, knocking over a stack of crates, their contents scattering around her. She winced as she hit the ground, but her instincts kicked in immediately. Her mana skin enveloped her, its soothing glow mending her bruises and revitalizing her spirit. As she pushed herself to her feet, the pain faded, replaced by determination.
Just then, Gordon appeared, cleaning a glass behind the bar. His eyes widened in surprise as he took in the scene.
"Anase?" he asked, concern in his voice. "What's going on?"
Anastasia brushed the dust from her clothes and faced the poison-curse mage. Still dizzy with the effects of the alcohol, an overwhelming surge of happiness came over her as she saw him and she threw her arms around his neck, nuzzling his sideburn.
"Gordon~! I'm so happy to see you!" She squealed; her words slightly slurred but overflowing with genuine affection. "I missed you so much!"
He blinked in surprise but couldn't help the smile that tugged at his lips. "I-I'm happy to see you too," he replied, his confusion evident but mingled with a hint of amusement.
Luck charged through the broken doorway with energy and anticipation. "She's amazing, Gordon! We've been having a blast!" he exclaimed, his enthusiasm contagious.
He attacked them with both legs, barreling through the bar. As the dust settled from Luck's attack, Anastasia found herself cradling Gordon, Taurus' shield protecting them both. His cheeks flushed a deep red as he realized his position, nestled securely against her, his face nearly buried in her cleavage.
"Luck!" Anastasia shouted, her voice both fierce and protective. "If you hurt a single hair on my boyfriend's head, I really will *hic* kill you!"
Luck paused, eyes wide with a mix of surprise and delight at the challenge.
"Boyfriend huh? He's lucky to have such a strong lady by his side" Luck said.
Still blushing furiously, Gordon managed to remove himself gently from the cosmos mage's hold, looking at her in agreement.
"But, If I hurt him, you'll get more serious right...?"
The lightning mage began to charge up his mana, getting ready to attack. Anastasia stood in front with her shield ready and Gordon gasped in surprise.
"Oi, Luck!" Magna yelled, running into the base "Chill out!"
"STOP DESTROYING THE BASE!" A gruff voice boomed as another wall shattered.
Captain Yami appeared, his towering figure casting an intimidating shadow as he stood amidst the debris. His expression was dark and intense, a smoldering aura surrounding him as rubble crumbled from his clenched fist. The air seemed to thicken with his presence, leaving those involved in the skirmish to stand in front of him with heads hung low, a mix of guilt and trepidation written across their faces.
"Aw, but we weren't done…" Luck murmured, his ever-present smile fading slightly as he glanced up at the captain, a hint of disappointment in his eyes.
Vanessa, always quick to find humor in tense situations, threw her arms around Captain Yami's bicep with a playful giggle. Her voice was light as she tried to ease the situation. "Come on, Captain, it's all in fun," she chimed, looking up at him with a cheeky grin.
Captain Yami's expression softened slightly, though the edge in his voice remained. "If this is your idea of training for the war, that's fine," he said, his tone firm but not entirely unsympathetic. "But keep the walls intact at least."
Anastasia, still processing the scene, blankly stared at the wall Captain Yami had just obliterated with his bare fists, its jagged remains a testament to his strength.
"And Sischrono!" Captain Yami's voice boomed, cutting through the air like a thunderclap, causing the cosmos mage to stiffen in response. "Your brother let you join us yet?"
"Uh…not quite," she replied, scratching her cheek with an awkward chuckle. "I'm just here returning your people."
She gestured toward Vanessa, who had somehow managed to curl up on the couch, fast asleep with her cat nestled beside her, purring softly. Grey, on the other hand, had decided it was the perfect time to do a spontaneous yoga session, wobbling before toppling onto her behind with a surprised yelp. Captain Yami sighed, a mix of exasperation and amusement flickering across his features as he took in the chaotic scene. Despite the mischief and mayhem, there was a warmth in his gaze, a reminder of the camaraderie and bond shared among his eccentric team.
Yami sighed, rubbing his temples. "Alright, alright. Just... try to keep the destruction to a minimum next time. And Sischrono, tell that brother of yours to hurry up and make a decision. We could use someone with your skills."
Anastasia nodded, a mixture of hope and uncertainty in her eyes. "I'll do my best, Captain."
As the adrenaline of the fight began to wear off, the effects of the alcohol hit Anastasia once more. She swayed slightly, grabbing onto Gordon's arm for support. He steadied her, his face a mix of concern and affection.
"Perhaps it's time you rested," Gordon murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.
"Mm, maybe you're right," Anastasia agreed, her words slurring slightly. "If I fall asleep can you wake me up early? I work tomorrow."
Gordon nodded, ushering her down the hall towards his room.
"That was fun!" Luck said, trotting after them "Let's do that again sometime!"
"Sure, Gordon can join too" She replied, throwing her arm around his waist. "He's strong too, ya know. You should see his magic!"
Gordon adjusted his hat in embarrassment, his cheeks tinged with a hint of red. It was unusual for him to hear someone speak so highly of him, especially in such a casual and affectionate manner. He wasn't accustomed to being the center of attention, and Anastasia's words made him feel both bashful and secretly pleased.
"S-sure" he mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck. "I'm not really… I mean, I'm not as flashy as you guys, but…"
The cosmos mage gave him a reassuring squeeze, her eyes warm and sincere. "You're amazing, Gordon," she said softly, her voice filled with genuine admiration.
As they continued down the hall, Luck trailed behind, still bubbling with excitement from the fight. The poison-curse mage's heart swelled with a mix of gratitude and affection, knowing that Anastasia appreciated him not just as her partner but as a fellow mage capable of holding his own. The promise of another match with Luck lingered in the air, and Gordon felt a newfound sense of confidence, eager to show what he could do. As he ushered her down the hall, providing an anchor to her stumbling steps, he looked at her with a newfound admiration.
"I'm fine, really," Anastasia insisted, a playful smile tugging at her lips. She tilted her head up to look at him, her eyes bright with affection and mischief. "Just need a little rest, and I'll be good as new."
He chuckled softly, shaking his head. "You're something else," he replied, his tone laced with amusement. "But you still need to sober up."
As they reached his room, Anastasia turned to him, her gaze softening. "Gordon…will you hold me tonight?" she said, the words tumbling out with a sincerity that made his heart skip a beat. Her vulnerability, so evident in her eyes, was a testament to the depth of her feelings.
He hesitated for a moment, his mind wrestling with the propriety of the situation. Though their relationship was official now, he felt a sense of responsibility, a desire to ensure she was comfortable and safe. "Are you sure you're okay with this?" he asked, his voice gentle yet concerned.
The cosmos mage nodded, leaning into him with a contented sigh. "I want to be with you," she replied, her voice steady despite the remnants of inebriation. "Just hold me, and everything will be alright."
With a small, reassuring smile, Gordon led her to the bed, helping her settle under the covers. He climbed in beside her, feeling a warmth spreading through him as she snuggled close, her head resting on his chest. The rhythmic rise and fall of his breathing was a comforting lullaby, grounding them both in the moment.
As the quiet enveloped them, she whispered, "This feels right." Her words hung in the air, a gentle affirmation of their connection.
Gordon wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer. The weight of the world seemed to melt away as he held her, their hearts beating in unison. "It does," he murmured, his voice a soft promise in the darkness.
As sleep began to claim them, Anastasia's fingers traced idle patterns on his chest, her touch a soothing balm. The warmth of her presence, the gentle cadence of her breath, lulled him into a peaceful slumber. In that quiet space, amidst the fading echoes of magic and the softness of shared dreams, they found solace in each other.
The first light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. Gordon stirred awake, feeling the gentle weight of Anastasia resting against him. The events of the previous night lingered in his mind, a cherished memory woven with laughter, battle, and the quiet comfort of their shared moments. Gently, he shifted, careful not to disturb her. As he propped himself up on one elbow, he watched her sleep, her face serene and peaceful in the morning light. A small smile played on his lips as he brushed a stray lock of hair from her forehead.
"Anase," he whispered softly, his voice a gentle nudge from sleep. "It's time to wake up."
She stirred, letting out a small, contented sigh as she blinked her eyes open. Her gaze met his, and a sleepy smile spread across her face. "Morning," she murmured, stretching languidly.
"Morning," He replied, his voice warm with affection. "You have to get ready for work."
She groaned playfully, burying her face into the pillow for a moment. "Can't I just stay here forever?" she joked, though her eyes sparkled with the hint of reluctance to leave the cozy cocoon they had created.
Gordon chuckled, shaking his head. "As tempting as that sounds, I think your patients might miss you."
She sighed dramatically, sitting up and rubbing the sleep from her eyes. "Fine," she conceded, her voice laced with mock exasperation. "I suppose I have responsibilities."
As she swung her legs over the side of the bed, Gordon stood, offering her a hand to help her up. The morning light danced in her hair as she rose, and he couldn't help but admire the quiet strength and grace she exuded. They fixed their clothing in comfortable silence, each savoring the lingering warmth of their connection. As they made their way out of the room, the rest of the base was beginning to stir. Members of their team were already gearing up for the day's training, the familiar sounds of camaraderie and preparation filling the air.
"Good morning, everyone," She said "Asta, do you have a minute? I'd like us to go see Henry again."
"Morning Anase-San!" He greeted enthusiastically, "Sure."
The mages nodded and together the three of them headed out to his room. It seems that he rearranged the base once again, so his room was a much shorter distance than it was yesterday. Asta knocked on the door, shouting a greeting to Henry and to their surprise he was up and out of bed. What had once been a small, dark space with just a bed, night table, and lamp had expanded into a room twice its size. There was now a small, firm couch, a writing desk, and a skylight directly over the bed.
"Wow, your room looks different!" Asta exclaims, taking in the changes.
"You seem much better today," Gordon observes, his expression sincere.
A small smile spreads across Henry's face as he nods, genuinely happy to see his friends. "The couch… it's better for exams," he explains, his voice soft and measured. "And the skylight… it lets me see… the stars at night…" He sneaks a quick glance at Anastasia before quickly looking away, afraid that the other Bulls might notice the blush creeping up his cheeks.
'Yes, the stars remind me of you,' he thinks to himself, a silent monologue running through his mind. 'You, who are doing so much for me and asking for nothing in return.'
Anastasia returns his smile. "This is certainly a helpful change. May we come in? I have some ideas I want to share with you."
Henry nods again, stepping aside to welcome them in. "Please…do," he says quietly.
Asta and the cosmos mage begin to step into the room, but Gordon hesitates at the doorway, remembering that he wasn't allowed in last time due to privacy. Anastasia notices his hesitation and turns to Henry.
"So, for what I have in mind, there are a couple of people who will need to be involved. Gordon is one of them. Is it okay if he's present for our conversation?" she asks, her tone gentle.
Gordon's heart skips a beat as he looks up, almost in disbelief. His eyes widen with joy at the idea of being included in something that would help his dear friend. Henry tilts his head in curiosity, then nods, a warm smile spreading across his face as he looks toward Gordon with approval.
"Of…course," Henry says softly, inviting Gordon to join them.
Anastasia began to cast her Microcosm spell, transforming the room into a breathtaking cosmic landscape. Stars adorned the walls and ceilings, their light shimmering gently, while constellations twinkled and floated lazily through the space. Nebulae ebbed and flowed like gentle tides, their ethereal colors washing over the room. As Asta and Gordon took their places around the room, they exchanged glances, both awed by the mesmerizing display. Henry, seated among them, let out a long, contented sigh as the familiar spell enveloped him. The starlight wrapped around him, soothing his senses and easing the tension in his body. His mana siphon effortlessly recycled through the atmosphere, bringing a sense of calm that he hadn't felt in weeks.
Anastasia noticed the shift in the room's atmosphere as the Bulls settled in, their presence grounding the moment. She allowed herself a brief glance at Henry, taking in the way his solar eyes seemed to glow even more brightly under the influence of her magic. His frame relaxed slightly, the weight of his condition momentarily lifting, and she could see the same calm washing over Asta and Gordon as they observed the scene in quiet wonder. She took a short breath, collecting herself before speaking, her eyes now deliberately fixed on Henry's bangs rather than the captivating warmth of his gaze. The presence of Asta and Gordon reminded her of the importance of this moment—not just for Henry, but for the team as a whole.
"So, based on my findings, I think we're going to call your condition 'Mana-Dependent Myopathy,'" she began, her tone professional but laced with a subtle tenderness. "It seems that the curse weakens your muscles, which is why you need to siphon mana to reinforce them just to carry out normal daily activities." She flipped through some pages, her focus shifting back to the medical details as Henry listened intently, his interest piqued.
"Your other bodily functions seem normal—no skeletal loss, nothing wrong with your blood or organs—but you could probably do well by eating a little bit more," she added, her voice gentle yet firm.
As she spoke, Henry's attention was fully on her, absorbing every word. The anticipation he'd felt earlier now mingled with a sense of relief, but beneath it all, the nervousness lingered. He knew she was right—he needed to take better care of himself—but it was hard to concentrate with the soft glow of her magic illuminating the room, casting her in a celestial light that made it impossible for him to forget how much he craved her presence.
She paused, observing him as he processed her words. She could see the weight of her diagnosis settling in, the realization sinking deep. He leaned back, quietly dissecting the news, his thoughts swirling with the implications of finally having a name for his affliction. Anastasia and the others mirrored his silence, giving him all the time he needed to digest what she had just shared. Years of uncertainty, frustration, and fear had plagued him. He had endured countless visits with healers, each one leaving him with more questions than answers. But now, at long last, there was something concrete—a name for the condition that had dominated his life. He struggled to find the words to express his gratitude, the enormity of it all catching in his throat.
Instead of speaking, he looked up at the cosmos around them, the constellations twinkling like distant beacons of hope. Anastasia followed his gaze, her own thoughts turning to the stars above. She knew how much this moment meant to him, and she understood that sometimes, silence was the most eloquent response. Together, they sat in quiet reflection, the universe around them offering a sense of peace as they both took in the magnitude of this breakthrough.
After a while, she gently continued, still gazing upward. "I have a treatment plan for you. While we're limited in what we can do about the curse itself, there is something I have in mind to relieve your symptoms."
Henry's breath caught in his throat. Not only had she identified the condition, but she was also willing to go even further, offering him a glimmer of hope he hadn't dared to imagine. He turned to look at her, studying her serene expression as she gazed into the cosmic expanse she controlled.
"I want to develop a vitamin for you," she said, her voice steady with determination. "Something that will suppress the curse enough to let you live a normal life, as long as you take it as directed. I have a team of mages in mind whose mana I think will be able to do this, and I'm certain they would have no problem helping a fellow Black Bull."
"A vitamin?" Asta chimed in.
The words filled Henry with a mix of awe and relief. The thought that she would go to such lengths for him—creating something specifically tailored to his needs—was almost overwhelming. He could hardly believe that after years of suffering in silence, he was now being offered not just a diagnosis, but a lifeline.
Henry's eyes widened. "Fellow… Black Bull?"
Anastasia nodded confidently. "Your team here is full of potential. If we can condense, combine, and stabilize our mana together into an edible gummy, I'm fairly confident we can create something amazing for you."
"You would… do that… for me?" Henry's voice was laced with disbelief and a hint of vulnerability.
"Of course, Henry." Anastasia's gaze softened as she spoke, her voice full of warmth. "I'm sure we all would."
Henry looked around at his friends—Asta, Gordon, and Anastasia—each of them smiling and nodding in agreement and an overwhelming sense of belonging washed over him.
"What do we have to do, Anase?" Gordon asked, his voice steady with determination.
Anastasia began to explain, her tone calm and confident. "First, I want to take advantage of Charmy's mana-enhancing food magic. Her abilities, combined with mine, will form the core of the vitamin's properties, directly aiding Henry's body." She glanced at Asta and Gordon, making sure they were following. "Asta's anti-magic, when paired with your curse-working, should be able to suppress Henry's curse enough to let him be around others without worrying about siphoning their mana."
The Bulls hung on to her every word, their focus unwavering.
"We'll need a special mold for this," Anastasia continued, tapping a knuckle on her chin thoughtfully. "A ton of heat and a lot of power. That's where Magna and Luck will come in. This won't be easy and might take some time to perfect, but I think it's worth trying."
"For Henry, it's worth a shot!" Asta shouted, his enthusiasm infectious.
Gordon's heart swelled with pride. Anastasia was not only beautiful, kind, and hardworking, but also incredibly intelligent. The more he saw her dedication to helping his friends, the more captivated he became.
Henry, overwhelmed with gratitude, felt tears welling up in his eyes. He wished he could embrace them all, but the fear of accidentally siphoning their mana, even with the Microcosm spell active, held him back. Still, he looked up at them, his voice choked with emotion. "Thank… you… so much."
Anastasia smiled softly, her eyes shining with sincerity. "It's my pleasure."
With the plan set in motion, the three of them made their way back to the living room, where the rest of the Bulls had left for their training day. Henry felt a renewed sense of hope, surrounded by friends who were willing to go to such lengths for him.
Anastasia turned to the poison mage, a soft smile on her lips. "I'll see you later," she said, reaching up to place a tender kiss on his cheek.
He nodded, returning her smile. "Be safe," he replied, his voice carrying a note of genuine care.
With a final glance and a shared moment of understanding, they parted ways. Anastasia headed toward her duties, her mind already shifting to the tasks ahead, while Gordon joined the others in their morning routine. As the day unfolded, the world continued to spin with its usual rhythm. Her presence lingered in the poison mage's thoughts, a comforting echo that accompanied him through the day. Asta, Nero and Noelle were already training outside. Gauche reluctantly went with Finral to train, Magna and Luck went to a dungeon to train, Charmy has been away training under a chef. As everyone chose their partners for the training day, The poison-curse mage's thoughts drifted back to the time he spent in the Poison Forest with Anastasia. He recalled the awe-inspiring moment when they combined their magic to create a fantastic beast, a blend of celestial light and poison-curse that seemed to pulse with life. The memory of that phenomenon filled him with a curiosity about what other magical combinations might yield.
"Poison-curse and cotton?" he mused to himself, shaking his head. "That doesn't sound right... Poison-curse and mirror magic? Maybe, but it seems more destructive than anything... Transmutation? It's worked before, but what else could we possibly do?"
His mind reeled as he cycled through the magic of his friends, considering their compatibility and the potential for innovation. The possibilities were endless, each combination a mystery waiting to be unraveled. As Gordon paced around the base, his thoughts kept returning to his training sessions with the cosmos mage. Those sessions had pushed him beyond his limits, challenging him to explore new aspects of his magic and himself. The memory of the cosmos mage's encouraging smile and the way she effortlessly wielded her celestial power lingered in his mind, a constant source of inspiration.
"What was something we had in common?" he pondered, reflecting on the unique connection he shared with Anastasia. "We both used summons... our summons fought... and our... feelings."
Memories of their dates together filled his mind. He recalled her warmth and sincerity, the way she looked at him with adoration in her eyes. Their celebratory kiss played in his thoughts, a reminder of the bond they shared.
"How could I possibly... have another partner?" he murmured to himself, feeling the weight of her absence like a chill in his bones.
The poison-curse mage began to retreat into himself, feeling a hollow ache where her presence had been. He missed her already, torn between the longing to see her again and his desire to support her in her mission to heal the kingdom. Her work was important, and he understood that, but it didn't ease the loneliness.
He then remembered the promise he made after their training session. 'I'll wait for you at my parents' house.' It was a promise that kept him anchored, a testament to their shared future.
Gordon went to grab a glass of water, the cold liquid soothing his dry throat. As he drank, he steeled himself with determination, resolving to prepare for his departure today. His heart was set on making everything ready for when she could join him.
Suddenly, a disturbance outside caught his attention. Noelle's voice pierced the air as she called Asta's name, urgency in her tone. He set the glass down and moved to see what the commotion was about, his thoughts still lingering on Anastasia and the future they had promised each other.
"Noelle-san! What happened?" Gordon asked, his voice laced with concern as he approached her.
"We were attacked!" Noelle exclaimed, her face pale with worry. "But I couldn't sense their mana at all!"
His eyes widened in realization. "That explains why Henry didn't wake up!" he said, the urgency in his voice matching the gravity of the situation. "Quick, we need to get him to the healing tower!"
Without wasting another moment, Gordon sprang into action, his mind racing with the implications of an enemy who could suppress their mana. This was no ordinary threat, and the need to protect his comrades was more urgent than ever. He hurled Asta on his back, summoned his broom and together with Noelle they raced towards the Healing Tower.
As the Restoration effort from the Eye of the Midnight Sun attack continued, the Clover Kingdom started to regain its calm. Wizard King Julius Novachrono was swamped with paperwork from the rebuilding effort.
Marx hovered over Julius' desk, eyes sharp and unwavering as he watched the king work. His expression was a mask of stoic determination, every inch of him radiating authority. Julius, feeling the weight of Marx's gaze, paused in his work, glancing up with a mix of unease and curiosity. The brief moment of stillness was broken when Marx's look intensified, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly, like a predator locking onto its prey. Panic surged through the Wizard King, and he quickly resumed writing, his hand moving furiously across the page as if trying to outrun the inevitable scrutiny. Anastasia waltzed into the room with a stack of medical documents in hand, catching Julius's attention as his eyes lit up with a flicker of hope.
"Anase, help me out here!" he pleaded, his pen still furiously scribbling across the page.
She chuckled, her eyes glinting with playful mischief, and casually added the papers to the already towering pile in front of him. "Nope. Marx says this is all on you." She shot a knowing wink at Marx, who, despite his intense gaze, allowed a small smile to break through, a touch of warmth softening his usually stoic demeanor.
The cosmos mage waltzed back out, blowing an exaggerated kiss to her brother as she exited. Julius clenched his fist, comically fighting back tears as he struggled with the mountain of paperwork, all under Marx's watchful eye. She whistled a happy tune as she walked the halls to take over for Dr. Owen's current case as he was called to an mood was at an all-time high, cherishing the night with the girls then the warmth of waking up to the love of her life. She loved how responsible and supportive Gordon was, making sure she awoke for work despite her longing to stay in bed together. She clung to the memory of his scent, a soothing blend of Patchouli and Rosewood and the tenderness in which his scarlet eyes showed hers.
As she stepped into the exam room, a middle-aged merchant, slightly overweight, lay uneasily on the bed, his skin tinged with a faint green hue. Anastasia read his chart, noting the dizziness, nausea and erratic heartbeat. The notes from Dr. Owen stated that the merchant recently returned from a distant land where he traded exotic goods. He recalls trading heart kingdom fruit for exotic herbs that are supposed to help with heart health. Shortly after consuming it, he began experiencing these strange symptoms and has been dealing with them for almost a week now even after he stopped eating the 's soft knock on the door was met with a grunt, and she pushed it open slowly. The patient's scowl deepened as she entered, his eyes narrowing as he took in her gentle smile.
"Hello, I'm Anastasia," she said, her voice warm and calming. "Dr. Owen has been called to an emergency, so I'll be taking over for him for now."
The patient's tone was laced with disdain. "Oh great, a woman..." He spat out the words, his eyes flashing with frustration.
Her expression remained serene, but her eyes flickered with a hint of empathy. She'd dealt with patients like him before – those who felt uncomfortable with a female healer or were simply struggling to cope with their situation. She chose to ignore his tone, instead focusing on the concern etched on his face.
"I've read your chart, but I have some more questions," she continued, her voice gentle but professional. "In addition to the symptoms you mentioned to Dr. Owen, is there anything else you can think of? Anything that might seem small or insignificant, but could help me better understand what's going on?"
"Are you simple? That's what I'm here to find out." The merchant barked; his voice tinged with impatience as his breath started to come in short, labored gasps.
Anastasia's eyebrow arched, a hint of skepticism in her gaze. "You're here to find out your symptoms?" she asked, challenging his response.
The merchant scowled; his irritation evident as he straightened slightly. "No, a solution." He snapped, his voice growing more strained as his chest heaved with effort.
"To your problem, yes?" she replied as if she were trying to steer the conversation back on track.
"My problem is that I'm wasting time here when I need to take advantage of this war and make sales. I want Dr. Owen. Not you."
Anastasia stared at him blankly, letting the words hang in the air as she took a deep breath to steady herself before she spoke. She considered that his condition might be leading to a sort of confusion, as his mind seemed to wander with his words.
"You're welcome to keep wasting your time waiting here for Dr. Owen to come out of an emergency- one that we don't know how long will take." She said, her voice calm but laced with sarcasm as she casually leaned on a desk in the room. "I mean, I have a steady job, and I'm not worried about money."
The merchant's eyes widened, his expression a mix of irritation and disbelief. "Excuse me?" He said, baffled by her audacity.
"So, your options are very clear," The cosmos mage explained, her voice unwavering "You can let me, who is just as qualified as Dr. Owen, to treat you. Or to stay here, suffering until you get what you want." Her eyes locked on to the merchant, her gaze sharp and commanding, exuding an undeniable authority.
The merchant gazed back at her, his lips twitching in a mix of irritation and contemplation. He weighed his options, frustration evident in the furrow of his brow. The silence stretched into a tense standoff, neither willing to break eye contact. Finally with a reluctant sigh, he shifted in the bed, his gaze dropping away from hers.
"Do what you must." he muttered.
As she observed the merchant speaking with her medical eye, she noticed the way he clutched his chest with each strained breath, his discomfort evident.
'Possible shortness of breath and chest pain' she mused, mentally noting the symptoms.
Anastasia gathered starlight in her hands and hovered them over the merchant's body, assessing his vital signs and the condition of his organs. As her mana penetrated his skin and weaved itself gently through his body, she could sense a thick and heavy fluid in the lungs- indicative of bleeding. She could feel the arteries significantly dilated, explaining the lightheadedness. The green tinge in his skin could have been the first sign of overeating the herbs and his lack of medical attention led to the worsening symptoms. As she moved her hands down to his abdomen, she felt her mana warm and increase in speed, indicating there was an excess of air caused by inflammation- explaining the nausea.
"You've been coughing up blood, haven't you?" She stated calmly, her eyes narrowing as she watched the merchant's reaction.
The merchant's eyes slightly widened, betraying the fact that he deliberately left that information out. He shifted uncomfortably on the bed, trying to mask his surprise.
"And you've conveniently left out that you're having trouble breathing." She added, her tone laced with edge.
His jaw tightened, a brief flash of panic crossing his eyes and with that, Anastasia's suspicions were confirmed. Without missing another beat, Anastasia cast Lantern's Embrace, the same spell she used on Henry to warm him at the end of his assessment. As the spell bathed the merchant in gentle golden starlight, he visibly relaxed. A pleasant sigh escaped his lips as he began to feel the healing energy curing his internal bleeding and inflammation.
"You may have overdosed on this herb. How much have you eaten?" She asked.
The merchant responded, his voice quieter now, "I chewed at least a cup or two of fresh herbs a day, hoping it would steel my heart for my age."
"Hmm…yes. That is likely far too much. Fresh herbs can be harsh on the stomach sometimes." She stood in front and met his eyes once more. "While too much of a good thing can be bad for you, a little bit of something bad can be good for you. I have a cure in mind, but like everything there are risks involved."
"And what risks would that be?"
"Well, there is a chance your condition would get worse enough to kill you."
"And why would I agree to that? I need this fixed yesterday!" He scoffed, frustration boiling over.
"But there is a better chance that you will never have to deal with this again. You just need to put your trust in this woman right here." She pointed at herself.
The merchant scoffed, rolling his eyes. "And if I do nothing?"
"It could also kill you." Her expression hardened.
"What good are you healers then!?" He snapped back.
"We provide treatment and health management." She said sternly, defending her trade "Once you leave here, it's you against your own body and if you don't treat it right it will be merciless against you as it fights for equilibrium, and you'll be wondering why you feel like shit all the time."
Her bluntness, curt as it was, had an oddly comforting effect. He had to admit, the fatigue and discomfort were indeed getting worse.
"I'm not here to gamble with your life. I'm here to make sure we never see you at the Healing tower again." She spat.
The merchant looked into the eyes of the cosmos mage, watching the starlit fires burn as hot as the sun. He began to laugh, his belly undulating heartily with each breath until it was replaced by a heaving cough, forcing him to grasp his chest in discomfort.
"You are truly something, Miss Anastasia." He said, his tone completely different from when he first saw her "You are brazen. I like that. I'll trust you with the treatment, but I'll have you know. If I am to die, my blood will be on your hands, and the kingdom will know."
She took a deep breath and nodded in understanding. "I'll be back with everything, then I'll Walk you through everything.
The cosmos mage exited the room and sped towards her desk. She reached into the bag that she took during her adventures in the poison forest. Her mind drifted to the publication written by Gordon's father, specifically to the paragraph about dosing with Foxglove. She lifted the container from the bag, observing the plant through its glass, and resolved to make the cure using the roots. She paced to the lab, her mind drifting to the time she spent with Gordon, remembering the way their magic mingled. As she entered, she prepared the required instruments, recalling the sensation of his potent power. She carefully clipped a few roots and dipped them into an alcoholic solution.
With everything prepared, Anastasia closed her eyes and recalled the sensation of their magic intertwining, the memory vivid as she allowed her power to flow in that delicate balance between danger and healing. She imagined Gordon's poisonous mana, a lingering echo of him, resonating within her own. Focusing her celestial energy, she willed it to harmonize with the essence of the plant, coaxing the transformation.
The liquid in the beaker began to shift, the once ordinary mixture taking on a mesmerizing hue of shimmering purple, like a fragment of the cosmos itself. She inhaled deeply, grounding herself in the moment, and cradled the beaker with both hands. As she visualized Gordon's hands together with hers, the solution responded, glowing softly—a subtle yet unmistakable sign that the remedy was complete.
Gordon, watching over his bestest friend Asta as he was being treated by Dr. Owen, felt a strange tugging sensation deep within him. He almost felt as if he were being drawn somewhere, or perhaps, he was being drawn upon. He stared at the door from within Asta's room and his mind lingered to Anastasia, knowing too well that she was nearby. He fought the urge to leave the room and seek her out but had to convince himself that she was busy elsewhere. He soon witnessed Captain Yami, barging open the door with Marx struggling against the grip on his robe.
The cosmos mage returned to the room with the merchant, his skin taking a deeper tinge of green as his breath labored further. She knew she had to work fast to avoid any further deterioration in his condition. The Merchant cast her a nervous side glance, his eyes darting to the beaker of eerie liquid. He grumbled something under his breath then laid to his left side.
"This remedy will balance the effects of the herb" She placed the tray with the beaker and a glass of water on the side table then gathered cosmic energy in her hands "Are you ready?"
The merchant let out a skeptical sigh "I still don't like this, but let's get this over with."
"You don't have to like it" She said as she hovered her hands above the liquid, merging its contents with her mana "But I'll make sure you're well enough to continue your work. That's a promise."
The starlight in Anastasia's hands began to emit a soft purple glow, shimmering with the delicate balance of the solution and her magic. She could sense the traces of toxin intertwined with the alcohol, now mingling with the cosmos within her. With a steady breath, she placed her hands gently on the merchant's back and chest, the soft pulses of her magic radiating warmth into his body. The tension in his muscles eased as he let out a small sigh of relief, finally allowing himself to relax and trust the treatment to run its course. She gracefully guided the solution within his body, focusing on each twist and turn in the human anatomy, careful to direct the concoction directly where it was needed. She found the veins closest to his heart and carefully guided the solution to seep into them.
"It burns" The merchant grunted through his teeth.
"Bear with me, sir." She said, keeping her focus "It will wear off in a moment."
As the medicine worked its way through his system, she could feel the flow of her mana increasing through his body, evidence of decompression. His heart rate and breathing steadily equalized and his abdomen shrunk slightly.
"Oh…That's nice…" He sighed, his skin tone quickly returning to normal.
Anastasia's eyes lit up at the visible result of her treatment. It worked. The knowledge she gained from reading Nathan Agrippa's paper had proven more effective than she could have ever dared to imagine.
Julius stood by his window, his gaze distant and troubled.
"Good luck…be safe." He said, manifesting the safety of Marie and Nero as the black bulls commenced their rescue mission.
"The other squads are watching the noble realm as you requested" said Marx, his tone stoic.
"Right," Julius responded as he shifted his gaze to his advisor. "We have to keep in mind the execution could be a ruse to distract us from something else."
"We'd better make sure to put a stop to their plans." Marx's gaze hardened. "If they carry this out, it'll throw the kingdom into an even greater panic."
"Yes" the king let out a long sigh as he touched the petals of an orchid, sitting in a vase beside the window. "It's up to the magic knights now."
A soft knock echoed through the king's office, causing the men to turn their attention to the door. Anastasia peeked her head in, immediately sensing the weight of Julius' tension. Through their synastry she could feel his frustration, the urge to be out there protecting his kingdom rather than confined to the castle, burdened by endless politics.
"So, funny story," She began, attempting to lighten the mood. "Remember when you gave me that interesting publication to read?"
"Anase, I'm really not in the mood-"
"It inspired me to use poison to treat a patient." she interjected.
Julius' eyes flickered to hers, but there was no surprise in them. He knew his sister was a risk-taker, willing to push boundaries for the sake of those she cared for. But Marx, standing nearby, looked baffled, his brow furrowed in disbelief.
Anastasia smiled gently, her voice calm and confident as she continued, "The treatment worked. Sometimes, the most dangerous things can be the most healing when used correctly."
She moved to stand behind the king placing her hands on his tense shoulders. "Come, look," she said softly, turning him toward the window.
The sky was ablaze with the colors of the setting sun, painting the kingdom in shades of gold and crimson. The cosmos mage wrapped her arms around her brother, embracing his small form with a tenderness that spoke of her deep love and understanding.
"There is so much talent here in your kingdom," she said gently, resting her chin on the crown of his head. "I know it's frustrating to be here, not out there, helping directly. But have faith, dear brother, my lovely little king."
She nuzzled the top of his head affectionately, drawing strength from their bond. "All will be okay. The trust you have in your captains, their knights and their talents will not go unwarranted. Especially the Black Bulls. They'll be alright, and so will our kingdoms."
Julius' shoulders slowly relaxed under her touch, and he leaned back into her embrace, finding solace in her words.
Despite the lingering worry in his eyes, a small smile formed on his lips. "Thank you, Anase," he whispered, his voice tinged with gratitude. "That was just what I needed to hear."
Julius, feeling the weight of his responsibilities temporarily lifted in his sister's presence, sighed deeply before pulling her arms around him. For a moment, he allowed himself to indulge in the warmth and comfort she provided, savoring the solace only she could bring. Marx, though still processing the unexpected confession, couldn't help but be moved by the bond between the siblings, despite his underlying yearning for something similar. The sunset bathed them all in its gentle glow, and for that brief time, the weight of the kingdom seemed just a little lighter.
This feels right- End