Having finished eating ice cream, Hikaru, Umi, Fuu, Hotaru, and Alcyone all felt refreshed. While they should've gone to bed early, they instead stayed up a bit longer. It had been ages since our heroes had time to relax and enjoy each other's company inside Mokona's shelter. Even longer since Alcyone was able to have a proper conversation. As such both sides caught up on things they had missed out on.
"And that is how Hikaru managed to save us from the light monster," Umi finished telling a story, leaning against the shelter's kitchen island.
Alcyone listened with her eyes wide, "Oh my. I never knew the monsters had grown that powerful."
"Yeah," Hikaru admitted, before smiling confidently, "but at least we are getting stronger as well!"
"That is certainly true," Fuu smiled, sitting on a purple armchair next to a coffee table. "I still cannot believe you managed to do battle against Zagato, Mr. Hotaru. I still remember back when you could barely lift your axe."
Sitting on the shelter's purple couch, Hotaru shrugged, "I think I have come far for a guy with no martial training whatsoever."
"Wait, you never trained with the sword?" Alcyone asked, flabbergasted. "I trained with my longsword for years and you still beat me!"
"I mean I have trained after coming to Cephiro," Hotaru explained. "First it was with Presea, then Hikaru and Umi helped me out with sparring. Also, I just beat you with a lucky feint."
Relenting a little bit, Alcyone then turned towards the Magic Knights, "So did you girls have formal training before coming to this world?"
"Yes!" Umi nodded proudly. "I am the captain of our school's fencing team! We had a major tournament coming before we came here…"
"I am on the archery team at school," Fuu mentioned. "As I do not have much training with swords, I have learned alongside Hotaru."
"My family runs a kendo dojo, so I get lessons from the students or my older brothers," Hikaru answered. "I also do gymnastics as a hobby at school."
"You girls make getting good at fighting sound so simple," Alcyone sighed before turning towards Hotaru. "So did you have any hobbies that gave you skills?"
Stalking, dumpster diving, and breaking and entering!
Pushing those thoughts to the back of his mind, Hotaru answered, "I did not have time for hobbies. Though I did learn how to swing heavy objects when working in construction."
"I see, my hobbies are studying magic and growing herbs. I gave up on my swordsmanship a long time ago," Alcyone shared about herself. "It didn't suit me, and now my sword is scattered somewhere."
"Yeah, sorry about that…" Hotaru apologized awkwardly.
"It's fine," Alcyone chuckled, leaning against the kitchen island. "So, tell me uhh…"
There was a moment of awkward silence as everyone stared at Alcyone, who seemed to have completely frozen. Eventually she brought her hands together and crossed her hands politely.
"I'm sorry, but I never memorized any of your names," Alcyone admitted awkwardly. "My name is Alcyone Subaru, nice to meet you all."
So that's her last name, Hotaru's ears perked.
"Hikaru Shidou!"
"Umi Ryuuzaki."
"Fuu Hououji."
Alcyone stared at them all for a moment, before asking, "…Are you girls all nobility of some sort?"
"Nobility? What for?" Fuu asked, confused.
As Umi and Hikaru also seemed confused, Alcyone explained, "On Cephiro, only people belonging to the eight noble families have last names."
Umi struck her hands together, "Oh I see! No, back on Earth all people have a first and last name to help us distinguish each other."
"I see," Alcyone nodded along. "Anyway, as I was trying to ask, Hikaru, you mentioned you have brothers. Are they just as adept at wielding the sword as you are?"
"Well, Masaru and Kakeru are pretty good, and Satoru is almost as good as my dad," Hikaru explained. "But I beat my dad when I was six so I can't really tell."
Umi and Fuu stared at Hikaru nervously, as Hotaru said, "That is either very sad or mildly terrifying…"
"Satoru, Masaru, Kakeru, Hikaru…" Alcyone repeated the names. "Is Hotaru related to you by any chance?"
Fuu tried to correct her, "Oh, that's not the—"
"It is true. I am Hikaru's lost fourth brother," Hotaru interrupted with a serious tone of voice.
"Eh! Really?" Hikaru stared at him in awe.
"Don't go being sarcastic in a way that people can't tell!" Umi slapped Hotaru on the back.
Hotaru cleared his throat while chuckling a little, "The truth is that I'm an orphan. I never knew my real parents and I've never had anyone adopt me."
"I never knew that," Alcyone gasped, a sympathetic look in her eyes. "That is so sad…"
"It is also the reason why I don't have a last name, yet," Hotaru admitted.
"So why did you get the name 'Hotaru' anyway?" Umi asked.
"The lady at the orphanage who named me said it was because my eyes reminded her of fireflies."
"Well, it does suit you," Alcyone smiled at him, her red lips curving gently.
Umi leaned towards Alcyone, saying teasingly, "So who would have guessed that the 'old lady' was nobility this entire time?"
"She's not that old, cut it out," Hotaru said defensively.
"It's fine," Alcyone waved it off. "I'm over seventy so it isn't uncommon for youngsters like them to call me old."
Everyone went quiet and stared at Alcyone with a blank expression, "Eh?"
Realizing he was staring, Hotaru coughed and hurriedly blurted out, "That's right, wasn't Clef also much older than he seemed?"
"That's right," Alcyone nodded, before leaning back a bit, "if I remember correctly, Master Clef was over 740."
"That old!?" Umi's eyes widened, her head filling with questions. "Can people in Cephiro live forever? How does he still look so young? How old are the old people we have seen!"
Dazed by Umi's deluge of questions, Alcyone tried her best to answer her questions, "I-If their hearts are strong enough, yes, people of Cephiro can theoretically live forever. Those with strong hearts and wills can also directly affect their appearances."
"It must be nice being able to look so beautiful even at your age, Ms. Alcyone," Fuu complimented her politely.
"So, how old are the others?" Hikaru asked, thinking back on the people they've met. "Presea, Ascot, Zagato, and Princess Emeraude?"
With a little twitch in her eye as Zagato was mentioned, Alcyone started listing them, "Well, I do not know how old Ascot or Caldina are, but Presea is around the same age as I am. Zagato is 273, Inouva about hundred years younger, and I believe Emeraude is over 400, based on the history books."
Umi's expression scrunched up as she listened to the different ages, "Good lord these people are ancient… I feel like such a baby."
"How old are all of you then?" Alcyone tilted her head. "I know people on other worlds don't age the same as on Cephiro, but I still can't judge by appearance."
"The girls are all fourteen years old; I am… eighteen," Hotaru answered, almost letting his true age slip.
"That young!?" Alcyone yelled out, staring at him wide eyed. "I knew the Magic Knights were still practically children but I thought you were over twenty at least…"
"Mr. Hotaru is very mature for his age," Fuu pointed out, "even though he doesn't always show it."
"On a good day he could pass off as the group's dad," Umi joked. "Though most of the time he is like a punkish older brother."
"I am still considered a fully-fledged adult by the board of education of Japan!" Hotaru grumbled. "Hence why I will be staying here once all is said and done."
Reminded of what she had heard back at the Spring of Eterna, Alcyone asked, "You truly wish to remain in Cephiro? Despite everything that has happened?"
"Of course. The world may be in ruins right now but I'm sure it will get better eventually. After all, I have met some wonderful people here," Hotaru said and winked at Alcyone discreetly.
Despite Hotaru's discreet gesture, the Magic Knights all noticed Alcyone turning away blushing. Having talked for well over 30 minutes, the group started getting ready to turn in for the night. The Magic Knights all changed into their pajamas, as Hotaru headed to the bathroom. This was the usual routine for our heroes, as this gave the girls privacy to change clothes. As their guest had arrived unexpectedly, the Magic Knights had asked Mokona to conjure pajamas for Alcyone. It was light turquoise in color, had minimal frills, and so long it even covered her hands and feet.
"It's a bit long…" Fuu commented on Alcyone's new outfit. "Sir Mokona, you got nothing better fitting than this?"
"Pu-puu", Mokona shook its head.
"It is fine, at least it is nice and soft," Alcyone smiled before crouching down and petting Mokona. "Mokona only has a set number of options as to what it can conjure. Items such as these pajamas and this shelter are premade and stored inside it."
"Do you know a lot about Mokona?" Hikaru asked.
"Master Mage Clef told me quite a lot about it," Alcyone answered before standing back up. "Mokona is Cephiro's one and only sacred beast. Its magical power is limitless in quantity but limited in what it can achieve."
"This weird ball of mochi is a sacred beast?" Umi stared at Mokona, who puffed out its chest.
"Is everyone decent already?" Hotaru asked, his voice echoing from the shelter's bathroom.
"You can come out now!" Hikaru gave permission.
As Hotaru got out of the bathroom, he had already removed his suit of armor. Unlike others', whose evolving armors could hide inside their magic gems, Hotaru's Double Armor had lost this ability. As such he kept it stored inside the bathroom. Seeing Alcyone, Hotaru's eyes widened and he had to take a step back. The women looked at him confused, with Alcyone covering up slightly, wondering if the pajama was too revealing.
"Hotaru, are you feeling okay?" Umi asked, before smirking. "How do you like Alcyone's new outfit?"
Hotaru felt like he had seen a ghost. Numerous painful flashbacks ran through his mind that made Hotaru's heart feel cold. He could see a dilapidated room with marble and gold walls, a large bed, and a dark presence choking the life out of Alcyone.
That's the same outfit that she died in…
"…It's lovely" Hotaru forced out of him, before smiling awkwardly.
Noticing something was off about Hotaru's expression, Umi turned to look at Alcyone, inspecting her closely. As she did, she noticed there were some gray bits amongst her ankle length black hair. Remembering how Alcyone had told them that Inouva had tried to kill her, Umi recognized this as the same stuff Ferio had been bound with. The boy's clothes had been a mess, but his short hair had been fine. Maybe Hotaru couldn't appreciate her beauty because of it?
"Alcyone, you mind if I brush your hair?" Umi offered, smiling at her sweetly. "I also have long hair, so I know it can be hard to take care of."
Knowing the full extent of her hair, Alcyone was taken aback by this generous offer, "I… I would appreciate it greatly."
Alcyone sat down on a stool with a pink cushion, in front of a dresser with a large mirror over it. As Umi started gently brushing her hair clean in long motions, Hikaru joined in as well, wanting to lend a helping hand. Being tended to by the two of them, Alcyone was reminded of how she used to be taken care of by maids. She smiled at the nostalgia of it all, but quickly pushed back those memories. There was no joy in remembering her past anymore.
While Hikaru and Umi helped out Alcyone, Fuu and Hotaru were sitting around the coffee table. At Hotaru's suggestion, Fuu pulled out the magical orb that she could use to contact Ferio.
"Ferio! Do you hear me, Ferio!" Fuu called into the orb.
The magical orb pinged, before a slightly tired voice answered, "I hear you loud and well, no need to shout."
"Oh, I am sorry," Fuu apologized. "Did I wake you up?"
"Sort of, what is it? I did not expect you to call me after less than a day," Ferio asked, sounding more laid back.
Fuu held back her laughter, but managed to speak in a serious tone of voice, "We managed to summon Mr. Hotaru's ghost, there is something he wants to tell you."
"Nani!?" Ferio yelled from the other end.
"Ferio-ooo!" Hotaru spoke in a spooky manner, stretching out his words. "Tonight, you will be haunted by three spirits. The ghosts of Cephiro's past, present, and future! If you do not recover the memories of thy past, they will shave you bald, put glue in your shoes, and steal your underwear!"
A moment of silence passed as Hotaru and Fuu stared at the orb with bated breath. At the same time Alcyone, Umi, and Hikaru looked at the two jokesters with unamused expressions. Eventually, however, they could hear laughter from the magical orb.
"Hahahaha! You got me good there, boss!" Ferio laughed at the other end. "It's good to hear you are okay."
"You too pal," Hotaru grinned. "I hope we will meet again soon after Zagato and I have had our rematch."
"Wait… you fought the high priest?"
"Yeah, my armor finally evolved and I learnt a few new spells. I will tell you about it another time. Fuu seems like she is getting impatient and wants to talk with you," Hotaru lied before standing up off the couch.
"M-Mr. Hotaru!" Fuu yelled, being left to her own devices. "…So, ummm, how are you doing Ferio?"
As Fuu and Ferio were left alone in their conversation, Hotaru walked over to the others. Hikaru and Umi had done a meticulous job in clearing out Alcyone's black locks and her hair gleamed brilliantly in the lights of the shelter. As he was about to compliment Alcyone on her beauty, a thought occurred to Hotaru. While Alcyone now had her own pajamas, which was more than he did, she didn't have a place to sleep. If she slept with the Magic Knights, it would be very cramped with four people on the same bed. She also couldn't sleep on the couch, as it barely had enough room for him.
"Hey, so, where is Alcyone going to sleep?" Hotaru asked the others.
The two girls stopped brushing Alcyone's hair, after which Hikaru tilted her head back, "That is a good question."
"Oh, it is simple," Umi said with a smile. "Mokona! Conjure Alcyone a bed, would you kindly?"
"Pupu-puu!" Mokona chirped, before the gem on its forehead shone a white light.
With a puff of smoke, a dark red, heart-shaped double bed appeared in the middle of the room. It had an ornate headboard, shiny velvet sheets, a red silken blanket, and plush pillows. Both Alcyone and Umi blushed upon seeing it, one out of her heart skipping a beat, the other out of embarrassment.
"It's quite… ummm," Alcyone tried to compliment the bed, but was at a loss for words.
"I forgot this happened back with Ferio as well…" Umi grimaced awkwardly.
"So that's just the default option?" Hotaru asked, staring at Mokona, who tilted its head to him.
At Zagato's crystal fortress, Zagato was sitting on his throne, trying not to exert himself too much. While he managed to keep up appearances, the injuries he had received from Hotaru were nothing to laugh at. While the punches to his jaw and shoulder were painful, it was the one's to his chest and abdomen that were the problem. He had two broken ribs and a fractured sternum, several torn muscles and ligaments, as well as bruises on his stomach, pancreas, and colon. However, things had been even worse.
Thanks to Princess Emeraude's healing, he no-longer had internal bleeding, ruptured stomach, or punctured lung. A person with weaker willpower and heart would have perished from these injuries, but Zagato had managed to fight a bit longer, and make it back to the fortress. Even still, it would take time for him to heal completely. As such, he had taken off his High Priest armor, and was doing everything to not exert pressure onto his front.
In front of the throne, was a small pool of water, from which light was shining. This light projected an image of Princess Emeraude, sitting inside a massive pink rose, in the watery depths of her prison. Not wanting Emeraude to see him in this condition, he made sure not to get too close to her image.
"Zagato, please stop this already!" Princess Emeraude pleaded with a sad voice. "At this rate, Cephiro will become irrecoverable… Zagato!"
Trying not to let her hear the pain his injuries caused him, Zagato spoke out, "That is not possible. This world means nothing to me when compared to you, Emeraude. And even if I did stop, there is not a single person in this world who would forgive me."
Though she could not see Zagato, Emeraude placed hands together and looked forward with misty eyes, "I would always forgive you, Zagato."
"But I would never be able to forgive myself…" Zagato admitted. "Only once this prison crumbles to dust and we can be together, will my wish have been granted."
Emeraude's heart ached hearing these words, but she couldn't refute them either. They were trapped in an eternal stalemate, between Cephiro and its citizens. As much as she wanted it all, she couldn't have it. There was only one solution, and it was coming, but slowly, her heart just had to hold on. Just as she was about to wonder if she had what it took, she heard armored footsteps.
Looking at the empty and dark projection before her, she was hoping to get to see Zagato once more. But instead of the familiar dark figure in dark grey armor, a blonde man dressed in blue armor stood before her.
He was over two meters tall, making him as tall as Zagato, with light blond hair in a long ponytail. His eyes were blue and lifeless, as if covered by mist. His blue and gray armor consisted of bulky pauldrons and a chest plate, as well as two blue knee-high boots. He had two grey gauntlets and a curved sword with a blue handle and guard, all decorated with deep blue gems. He had two small earrings on his left ear lobe and a single, larger earring on the right. His face had four blue markings, above his eyebrows and below his eyes.
"You are…" Emeraude gasped, before recognizing the man. "Lafarga!"
"Yes," Zagato confirmed. "Lafarga was the captain of the guard who protected you. Of course, here in Cephiro, the world supported by you, he never had to fight. The guard was created to combat the occasional monster that appeared."
While Lafarga had worked under her, Princess Emeraude didn't remember him all too well. She had seen him command the guards from a distance on a few occasions, but beyond that he was a mystery to her.
"Lafarga was known as the strongest sword master here in Cephiro. He has been quite useful at keeping large hoards of citizens of Cephiro at bay with his reputation and power," Zagato praised the warrior, before lamenting. "In hindsight, I should have sent him after the Magic Knights from the start."
"Don't do it Lafarga! Stop!" Emeraude pleaded with the man who formerly had protected her.
"Emeraude, it is useless," Zagato interrupted her. "I have put a spell on Lafarga that controls his heart."
As Emeraude gazed into Lafarga's blue eyes, she truly could not see any humanity behind them. The man who had once commanded respect with his leadership skills, was now just an empty husk, devoid of morality.
"W-What a cruel thing…" Emeraude shook her head, not wanting it to be true. "Lafarga, please wake up! Lafarga!"
And yet, despite commanding him directly, there was no response.
"Lafarga," Zagato commanded. "Tomorrow, when the sun rises, head out and bring me the heads of the Magic Knights!"
With those words, Lafarga turned around, heading to his position slowly. As Lafarga left, Zagato cut the feed with Princess Emeraude, leaving him alone in the throne room with his injuries.
Staring at this bandaged chest and abdomen, Zagato couldn't help but wonder if Lafarga would succeed. Defeating the Magic Knights would be simple for him, as Lafarga's blade could slice them up without effort. But what about Hotaru? In terms of defense and cunning, he was by far Lafarga's superior. He could already see Lafarga being crushed by Hotaru's brute strength. And with Alcyone's disappearance, there was no guarantee if she would stand up against Zagato.
"I need to rethink this tomorrow…"
Things had finally quieted down at Mokona's shelter. Alcyone, Hotaru, and the Magic Knights had all brushed their teeth and said good night. As the nights were now much darker than in the past due to the dark clouds, so was their mobile home. One could not even see their own hand before their eyes, making sleeping in the wasteland quite unnerving. To alleviate their situation, Mokona had summoned an ornate stained glass oil lamp, which they had left burning on the kitchen island.
With their night-light now giving them some comfort, they had all laid down on their beds. The Magic Knights were huddled under the covers of their queen-sized bed, with Mokona snuggled between Hikaru and Umi. Hotaru was laying on the couch as per usual, with his right arm and leg hanging off the side, propping him up. Alcyone was curled up under the red silk blanket on the heart-shaped bed, happy to finally have a fresh mattress again. Yet despite this, she was the last one left awake, turning restlessly in the bed.
Zagato… I always dreamt of sleeping in a bed like this with you. To feel your large warm body against mine, as we lounged away the late hours of the night, before falling asleep in your arms. But all this time, you loved Emeraude instead…
Alcyone's heart ached and her anger flared up, as she remembered what had happened earlier today. The sight of Zagato trying to erase her without a moment of hesitation, the very instant he saw her as a potential threat, was burnt into her retinas. Had it not been for Princess Emeraude, she probably would have met her end right there and then. The irony that the woman who she had betrayed and had stolen the love of her life, was her savior, was not lost on her.
While she now had a new place to call "home" and a new bed, things still remained the same. She was sleeping alone, harboring a deep seeded grudge, and thinking of ways to kill those who had wrong her. Only difference was that now she didn't have a goal beyond that. No great dream, no wish beyond revenge and no hope at redemption. And yet, there was still someone who cared very deeply about her.
Hotaru, you said you loved me, but I do not know if I can return those feelings. My heart still aches from being betrayed and I don't know if I can ever love someone else like I did Zagato. While you may be able to forgive my misdeeds, I don't think that I can ever see myself being forgiven…
Alcyone propped herself up against one of the plush pillows and stared across the room to where Hotaru was sleeping. The young man had turned out to be even younger than she expected. Despite learning of her true age, he had not seemed to mind. However, for Alcyone, having the affection of someone only a quarter of her age, was a bit off-putting. Then again, she had been in love with someone almost four times her age as well.
Maybe this is how Zagato felt about me…
As Alcyone continued staring at Hotaru in the dark room, she couldn't help but notice how peaceful he looked when asleep. While he might have been too young for her to love him, there was an almost maternal desire to take care of him. Though the idea of her protecting Hotaru when he was clearly the stronger of the two, felt a bit silly.
Maybe I just feel indebted to him… Hmm?
Staring at the other end of the couch, Alcyone noticed how both of Hotaru's knees were hanging off of it. As their current dwelling wasn't all too spacious, having a smaller couch made sense. However, since her and Hotaru were the same height, she could tell how uncomfortable it would be to sleep like that. In addition, he had to sleep in his regular clothes, and had no blanket. The idea that Hotaru had slept like that every night, reminded her of her time being imprisoned inside a sphere of light.
After being rescued by Hotaru and given shelter by him, eating food made by the Magic Knights, and having been gifted a place to rest; Alcyone felt obligated to help him out. She got up out of her bed and quietly walked over to the couch. She would offer him a place to sleep next to her, so that he could sleep comfortably and peacefully, as he deserved.
But as she tried to invite Hotaru to share a bed with her, the words got stuck in her throat. She didn't know how to express herself in an appropriate way, as her tired mind was flooded by emotions. Looking at his sleeping face, she was once again struck by a sense of déjà vu, but not as strongly as they first met. As she was crouching over him, Hotaru suddenly opened his eyes. This caught her by surprise, but his unassuming expression lessened the shock.
"Can't get any sleep either?" Hotaru whispered,
"I…" Alcyone started, but the words didn't want to come out of her mouth. "I just… don't want to sleep alone… again."
While she was embarrassed to admit this, Hotaru only nodded understandingly and stood up, "Alright."
Without a word, they quietly returned to the heart-shaped double bed. Alcyone laid down first, laying on the right side of the bed, with her back against the center of it. As she waited for Hotaru to lay down, she could hear him taking his socks and overshirt off first, before laying next to her. She was nervous as to whether the young man was going to try and wrap his arm around her, but instead, nothing. Both of them were sleeping back-to-back. The only parts of them that were touching were their feet, due to the mattress tapering at the lower end.
Whether she was disappointed or relieved by this, Alcyone didn't have long to think about it. She soon fell asleep, content knowing she at least once had done the right thing.
As the morning arrived, she was awoken to the sounds, smells, warmth, and light of a new day. It was very bright, as the lights of the shelter had been lit up. Behind her back, she could hear the sounds of a table being set and of boiling water. There was a smell of spices, meats, and vegetables wafting in the air. Alcyone realized that she had slept in and the others had started making breakfast without her.
How kind of them, though they shouldn't have. I wonder if Hotaru is the one cooking? The girls did say he has a tendency of cooking heavy and rich foods.
As Alcyone started waking up, she felt a warm presence around her. The red silken blanket was still wrapped around her and as she moved, something held in place. Opening her eyes, she was greeted by the sight of wrinkly grey fabric, and when looking up, by the chin of a young man. Realizing she was sleeping in Hotaru's arms, she tried getting away, until she noticed that her arms and legs were wrapped around him as well. She blushed fiercely, until the sound of Hotaru's quiet snoring almost lulled her back to sleep.
This is actually really comfortable… I wonder if I can get up without waking him?
"Hey you two! Rise and shine!" Umi greeted them cheerfully at full volume.
Both of them were woken up completely by this and as they looked at each other, it was Hotaru's turn to blush. They both quickly tried to give the other some room, but the blanket kept them bound together. Eventually Hotaru managed to bridge himself to get the blanket out from underneath him, before rolling out of the bed and standing up.
"Ahem, good morning, Alcyone," Hotaru cleared his throat, trying to act casual.
"Good morning," she answered back, trying to cover up her blush with the blanket.
"You looked so cute together while sleeping, we did not want to bother you two," Fuu said, smiling warmly with her eyes closed, pressing her hands together.
"Uhmmm… thanks?"
As Hotaru was trying to figure out how they had ended up in a position like that while asleep, he noticed the three Magic Knights were all wearing aprons. From past experiences, he could tell what the breakfast would be like based on who wore the apron. If it was Fuu, it meant traditional Japanese breakfast. If Umi, it would be something more experimental. If Hotaru, it meant something more western. If Hikaru, it was a disaster. But if all three of them were cooking at once, it could only mean one thing.
"We having hotpot for breakfast?"
"That's right!" Hikaru said happily. "Fuu and Umi figured you two would need plenty of energy after last night."
Hotaru and Alcyone yelled together, "We were just sharing the bed!"
Waking up on his throne, Zagato slowly opened his eyes. The blue flames of the throne room's metal torches were still burning and the fortress was quiet. The only sound he could hear was the quiet rhythmic breathing of the figure standing next to him.
Lafarga was standing at attention beside him, awaiting his instructions. Zagato had given the captain orders to wait for further instructions before going after the Magic Knights. For the longest time he had been thinking that if everything else fails, he could send Lafarga after them. But now he was certain he needed to improve the odds somehow.
As he was thinking of a way to empower Lafarga, Zagato heard footsteps from the throne room's front doorway. The doors had been blown away by himself yesterday, so he could immediately tell who it was. Inouva was approaching him with a resolute expression on his face, his golden eyes staring at Zagato directly.
His right-hand man stopped at a respectable distance away from the throne. Inouva's fancy clothes were still scuffed up from his defeat at the hands of the Mashin Windam, but he still held himself with the same pride as always.
"My lord," Inouva addressed him, before waiting for Zagato to fix his posture. "The princess… How is Princess Emeraude?"
"The same," Zagato grunted, leaning against his fist. "Her tears have not dried a single moment since I began this battle."
Inouva knelt down before Zagato, bowing deeply before looking at him with utmost respect, "My lord, it is because of my failures that you now find yourself in such a state. Had I made sure the one called Hotaru was dead and finished off the Magic Knights faster, your dream would already have come true. I understand that because of my shortcomings, you are now sending Lafarga to fight them."
"That is right," Zagato answered dryly, fighting the urge to roll his eyes. "Do you have any advice to give me, old friend?"
Realizing he was frustrating his master, Inouva went straight to the point, "Please grant me permission to go after the Magic Knights one last time. Those girls from another world defeated me in this form, but if I revert to my original form, I can use all of my powers. If I fight alongside Lafarga, the Magic Knights and their bodyguard will not stand a chance!"
Though Zagato's façade did not break, his exposed and bandaged up torso betrayed his gasp. He was left speechless by this request. For Inouva to wish to revert back to his original form, was no simple matter, but an all or nothing gamble.
"My lord! Please, listen to my wish," Inouva requested.
Zagato tried standing up in order to walk away and end the conversation, but his injuries paralyzed him with pain. Despite this, he continued getting up, coughing up a few droplets of blood onto his armored fist.
"My lord, please do not get up!" Inouva pleaded before continuing. "I know you have kept me at your side because I was a creature Princess Emeraude presented to you as a gift!"
After Zagato sat back down, Inouva continued, "Please revert me to the form I possessed prior to this battle, when I was always at your side!"
"Inouva, you are a creature," Zagato spoke in a strained and tired voice, "an elemental with the highest magical power. That is why I was able to turn you into a human as you wished."
"I know it is selfish of me to ask you to revert me back," Inouva admitted, feeling slightly foolish. "When I first asked to be changed, I told you this human form would allow me to wield a sword and watch over those we gathered to defeat the Magic Knights. However…"
Inouva's hand trembled and clenched into a fist, remembering the sting of his defeat. But at the same time, he couldn't deny he had enjoyed the short time he had spent as a human. During the past fifteen years, he had been able to enjoy life in ways he couldn't have imagined before. Whether commanding troops, doing menial labor, or running errands, being able to be of use to Lord Zagato, had been a fulfilling life.
Having made his peace, Inouva looked at his master straight in the eye, "To defeat our matured foes who have revived two Mashins, the only solution is to pair every bit of magic power I have up with Lafarga's swordsmanship."
"Inouva…"
"Please grant me one more chance to repay you, for keeping me at your side just because I was a gift from the princess!"
With a heavy heart, Zagato explained the conditions to Inouva, "If you revert to that form, you can never again take human shape. If you revert back into an elemental, your fate will be tied with Cephiro itself."
Inouva bowed his head once more, "I understand that."
"Why are you so devoted to me?" Zagato asked, barely able to look his old friend in the eye.
With adamant resolve, Inouva explained, "I have seen you beside the princess all this time, my lord. I have seen all of your feelings as well. Cephiro is a world of will. A world where the heart wins over all. There is no way that your wish will not come true."
Zagato smiled, trying to hide the pain of losing such a loyal friend, "Even if it is an evil wish that uproots every rule in Cephiro…"
"No," Inouva interrupted him, before speaking more seriously. "No matter who brands you as evil, to me, your wish means the world, my lord. For you and princess to be able to love one another freely, is cause worthy of giving my life to."
Seeing Inouva's determination, Zagato knew there was no need to worry. He would win.
"Very well, Inouva," Zagato agreed, and extended his armored gauntlet towards him.
Inouva gasped in joy as Zagato's hand started glowing white, before he could feel his body feeling lighter. He was surrounded by bright white light before he felt the pain of his mortal form being stripped off of him. His hair and ears stood up, growing longer and wilder as his nails grew sharper. His mind became more feral and his instincts and senses far sharper. With one last eruption of light, he let out a deafening wail before his cape came off of him.
Zagato watched as his old friend transformed into a large, white, wolf-like creature. His fur was long and silken and he was about twice the size of a lion. Inouva's ears and whiskers were twice as long as his head, and he had a long foxlike tail. On each of his paws he had four grey, sharp claws. Three in front, one at the heel. On his forehead he had the same hexagonal purple gem as in his human form, but in addition, he had a dark grey footlong horn above it. His eyes were solid gold in color, aside from black slanted pupils. From his back sprouted two white tendrils with bulbous tips.
As Inouva howled, his voice echoed across the entire crystal fortress like the sound of thunder. Seeing he was ready, Zagato turned towards the silent warrior who had been standing by his side all this time.
"Lafarga, get on Inouva and bring me the heads of the Magic Knights and their allies," Zagato commanded.
Without further instructions needed, Lafarga leapt on top of Inouva's back, between the wolf's neck and tendrils. With one last howl, Inouva's body glowed bright white, as both him and Lafarga disappeared in a flash.
Left alone in the throne room once more, Zagato's only regret was that he couldn't go with them.
After eating their breakfast, the Magic Knights and Hotaru had put on their armors before heading out. Alcyone had finally re-equipped her forehead gem and summoned her maroon armor and golden scepter-like staff. Although she felt more confident having her most powerful gear back, she couldn't help but notice the girls staring at her.
"I kinda forgot how revealing that outfit is…" Umi said, humbled by it a bit.
"It does leave very little to the imagination," Fuu agreed respectfully.
While Hotaru did not comment on this, he couldn't help but agree. Alcyone's armor's centerpiece was basically a tiny dark reddish leather leotard that only reached to her armpits, and had an exposed navel. In addition, she had matching thigh-high boots, arm-length gloves, and a collar that covered her clavicle. The only armored parts seemed to be large, wide pauldrons of matching color. The part that covered her the most was her long, white, double layered cape pinned both around her shoulders and waist. The cape's waist connection, her collar, and her pauldrons were decorated by purple gems, and she had earrings that matched the jewel on her forehead. Her head was encircled by a light half circlet, the ends of which tapered in a pair of wing-like ornaments. Truly, it was an outfit better suited for a villainess than a heroine.
While Alcyone wasn't amused by the comments of the girls, she also didn't seem bothered by them, "This is standard attire for a sorceress of my level. If people wish to gawk at my appearance, let them do so. Besides, I like the breeze."
"She does have a body worthy of showing off," Hotaru flirted, earning the glares of his allies.
Alcyone looked smug about his comment, while Umi stared at him venomously. Hikaru was staring at her own chest, while Fuu was smiling awkwardly. He tried leaving before the situation could escalate, but was unintentionally stopped by Alcyone's pauldrons. Their wide spikes took up a lot of space inside Mokona's shelter, making Alcyone's shoulder width nearly four times wider.
"These are the one thing I kinda take offense to," Hotaru said, trying to maneuver around the pauldrons.
Alcyone sighed, slightly ashamed, "Sorry about them… I was so in love with Zagato when my gear evolved last time, it tried to match Zagato's armor."
"He does have some ridiculously wide pauldrons," Umi chuckled, before her own pauldrons clanked with Hikaru's.
As the party finally exited the shelter (Alcyone walking out of the door sideways), Mokona absorbed the building back into its forehead gem. They then started following the white bouncing blob, who bounced across the rocky wasteland at its usual brisk pace. While the main group was used to running after Mokona, Alcyone was having difficulty keeping up with them.
"Need us to slow down?" Hotaru asked her.
"No need, I am just… used to riding on mounts," Alcyone admitted, panting slightly. "Or teleporting, or levitating…"
"Can you use magic to keep up with us?" Hikaru yelled from the front of the group.
Alcyone nodded, before floating up into the air. Her cape and hair flowed behind her graciously as she glided forward with her magic. However, she wasn't used to high-speed travel with her levitation spell, as she mostly used it for combat.
Seeing Alcyone start falling behind again, Hotaru asked, "Want me to pull you along?"
Alcyone considered the offer, before flushing red angrily, "I am not a kite!"
"Mokona, is it this way?" Hikaru yelled, starting to get tired of running as well.
"Pupupaa pupupaa puppuppaa!" Mokona chirped before stopping, turning around, and pointing forward. "Pupupuu!"
As Mokona started running ahead once more with Hikaru chasing after it, Fuu and Umi had to stop to take a breather instead. Hotaru and Alcyone joined them afterwards, both of them also feeling the strain of an hour of running.
"We are heading towards higher elevation," Fuu panted. "The air is getting thinner."
"You sure it isn't just that chanko nabe you called a hot pot?" Hotaru asked, feeling bloated. "I feel like a sumo wrestler."
"It was Hikaru who added all the protein!" Umi snapped at him. "Also, no one told you to have four bowls of it!"
"One shouldn't let food go to waste," Alcyone patted Hotaru on his head, before getting back down on the ground.
"Everyone! Let's give it a little more!" Hikaru cheered them on, as she ran back to them.
"You still have energy left?" Umi whined.
"You are not tired, Ms. Hikaru?"
"It is a little tough for me, but both of you were able to get Mashins. So, it's my turn now. I have to do my best so I can revive a Mashin too!"
"Right, and once you get your own mech, you will all be full-fledged Magic Knights," Hotaru reminded them.
Though before that we need to deal with Lafarga and Inouva. Good thing I already know how to deal with them, but how do I let the others know? I can't just blurt out the answers, one of them is bound to find it suspicious.
"You girls sure have gotten far since we first met," Alcyone admitted, before bowing her head ashamedly. "I am sorry for having tried to end your lives at the start."
"It's fine, you were just doing what your heart saw as right," Hotaru comforted her.
Alcyone shook her head, "No, what I did was selfish and unforgivable. There is no one left to judge me, so I must do my best to set things right myself."
"Yeah, let's go!" Hikaru nodded, before leading the way.
Soon afterwards, they caught up with Mokona, who was standing next to a cliff. Mokona's permanently smiling face was twisted by horror, as it looked down the cliff. The sounds it was letting out sounded more like whimpers than chirps.
"What's wrong, Mokona?" Hikaru asked worriedly.
"Papupapapapu," Mokona whispered, before pointing down.
As they looked down, they could see a huge winged creature. It had a humanoid reptilian body with large wings growing from its arms. It had long ears, several horns, sharp claws, and long dirty grey hair. Its skin was olive brown and it was crouching inside a small rocky valley.
"A monster," Hikaru said in a low voice.
"H-Hey, is it eating something?" Umi squealed.
Hearing Umi's high pitched voice, the monster turned around, revealing its fanged mouth and red reptilian eyes. In its clawed hand, it held the bloody remains of something.
"It is eating an animal," Fuu gasped.
"That's not an animal…" Alcyone said with a trembling voice, staring at the corner of the valley.
As the others turned in the direction Alcyone was looking, their hearts sank. At a distance, they could see a pair of small shoes. As the implications of this set in for them, Hikaru, Umi, Fuu, and Alcyone all gasped and held their hands in front of their mouths. Hotaru on the other hand, couldn't hold it in, and proceeded to throw up his breakfast over the cliff.
That was not there in the show!
"Why you…!" Hikaru's anger flared as she proceeded to summon her sword.
The monster screeched at them and prepared to fly towards them. It quickly ascended the cliff and was about to strike its clawed hand down on them.
"Ice Spear Attack!" Alcyone yelled angrily.
Dozens upon dozens of frozen spears shot out of the gem of Alcyone's staff, hitting the monster directly. Its body was impaled by the frozen projectiles, with its wings getting shredded to pieces. From its many wounds, purple gas started leaking out with a loud hissing sound.
"Frozen Finale!" Alcyone yelled, summoning a blizzard out of her cape.
The blizzard blew away the purple gas and partially encased the monster's body in ice. Injured and unable to move its wings, the monster crashed to the bottom of the valley, before shattering into a splatter of black blood.
Before the others could congratulate Alcyone on her kill, they noticed that she was panting heavily. At first, they thought she was tired from using her magic, until they noticed her expression. Alcyone fell down onto her knees and grabbed hold of the sides of her head, before throwing her head back.
"ZAGATOOOOO!" She screamed angrily, letting out all of her frustration.
Alcyone's frustrated voice echoed across the mountains and the valleys, after which she covered her eyes. As they heard the sorceress start weeping, the Magic Knights couldn't help but look away. Although Alcyone had been their enemy until yesterday, they could empathize with the pain of her guilt. While they knew that Alcyone wanted to set things right, there were things she could never undo.
Eventually, Hotaru crouched down and lifted one of Alcyone's arms around his neck, before helping her back up. He had to maneuver around her hair, cape, and pauldrons, but Alcyone made efforts to make it easier for him.
"We have a long way ahead of us before we have the time to mourn and grieve," Hotaru said solemnly, before turning towards Alcyone, "but I will help you get there."
Wiping the tears out of her eyes, Alcyone smiled at him sweetly, "Thank you, Hotaru."
As the Magic Knights were enjoying the tender moment before them, they were startled by the flash of lightning. As they looked up, a bolt of lightning came straight for them, striking a path between the Magic Knights and Hotaru and Alcyone. They all turned around so as not to be struck or blinded by the lightning, as Mokona jumped into Hikaru's arms.
"Nani?" Hikaru gasped, holding Mokona tightly.
Another lightning bolt struck down from the sky, at which point they all jumped out of the way. This time the lightning carved the ground all the way to a nearby tree, splitting it in half and igniting it in flames.
"The Hell is going on here!" Hotaru cried out, holding Alcyone close to him.
Why is there lightning here… already…
As Hotaru and everyone else looked up at a large stone pillar, they could see a threatening sight. A blond man wearing blue armor, riding a large white wolf-like beast. While the Magic Knights already knew to be wary, Hotaru and Alcyone were pale as sheets.
"Who are you!" Hikaru asked the man, summoning her sword.
"Lafarga, Inouva!" Alcyone yelled out in horror.
"Both together…" Hotaru whimpered.
"You know these two…" Fuu asked, before her eyes widened, "wait what do you mean Inouva, Ms. Alcyone?"
"That wolf is Inouva's true form! And the one riding it is Lafarga, the captain of Princess Emeraude's inner guard! The strongest swordsman in all of Cephiro!"
"Alcyone," they all heard a voice echo. "You dare align yourself with the enemies of Zagato!"
"That voice! It's inside my head!" Hikaru gasped.
"It truly is Inouva," Fuu shuddered, summoning her sword as well.
"Lord Zagato was the one to betray me first!" Alcyone yelled back at Inouva. "I gave all of my love and loyalty to him and he repaid me by trying to kill me!"
"It matters not, your end will only be that much swifter!" Inouva's voice echoed, before the large wolf howled towards the skies.
Several bolts of black lightning rained down from the sky, peppering the ground beneath. As our heroes tried to dodge them, the man riding atop the wolf swung his sword with both hands, sending a flashing wave towards them.
"Silver Speed! Tungsten Defense!" Hotaru yelled, before jumping in front of the attack.
As he took the strike, he could feel a wave of force flow through him. The land around him was crushed by the wave, as it drove his feet into the rocky ground. Before the girls had time to be impressed by the sword's ability to cut from afar, Hotaru was bombarded by several lightning bolts. The ground around him exploded from the sudden heat caused by the concentrated lightning attacks. This was then followed by even more attacks from Lafarga.
"Hotaru!" Alcyone screamed.
"Are you, okay Hotaru?" Hikaru yelled.
Hotaru pulled out his spear and shield from his armor, blocking Lafarga's slashes while grounding himself with the spear. Although the combined onslaught was pushing him to his limits, he felt like he could take it.
"I'm fine! We need to figure out how to separate these two!"
"Separate?" Fuu asked.
"They are too strong together!" Hotaru yelled, until he felt the assault on him stop.
As he looked from behind his shield, he saw Inouva running straight towards him at full speed. White lightning followed after the white wolf, while Lafarga brought his sword back, ready to swing it at full force. Not wanting to test out the pair's cavalry tactics, Hotaru took off running. Using Silver Speed, he ran to the right of Inouva, causing the wolf to turn around.
While Hotaru had hoped to cause Lafarga to fly off of the wolf in a sudden turn, Inouva knew to compensate for this. He wrapped his tendrils around Lafarga's waist, allowing the swordsman to keep both hands on his sword. Lafarga swung his sword forward, sending another, much more powerful wave towards Hotaru.
With only a split second to spare, Hotaru managed to duck and cover, allowing for the wave to pass over him. The horizontal wave flew over him and struck a small mountain, cutting it in half.
"Wind pressure!" Hikaru yelled out. "Wind pressure from his sword swings is doing the cutting!"
Before Hotaru could make a snarky remark about how knowing that didn't really change the situation, Inouva reached him. The wolf glowed bright white as its body turned into lightning, before ramming into Hotaru. While Hotaru was too heavy to be blown away by Inouva, this only meant he took the full force of Inouva's attack.
"AAAAAAAHHH!" Hotaru yelled out, as the current flowed through his body.
While Hotaru's spells gave him resistance against heat and electricity, they did little to numb the pain. He tried counterattacking, but by the time he could raise his weapons, Inouva was far away.
"Hotaru!" the Magic Knights all yelled at once.
"It's fine…" Hotaru gritted his teeth while straining his voice.
Despite the pain and injuries, he stood up slowly. As he looked behind him, he saw that Lafarga was still sitting pretty atop the wolf. The idea that he wasn't hurt by that attack pissed him off, but maybe Inouva could protect his passenger.
Turning towards the Magic Knights and Alcyone again, he yelled, "You girls take care of Inouva! Me and Alcyone will take on Lafarga!"
"V-Very well!" Umi yelled, trusting Hotaru.
As Hotaru heard Inouva howling again, he breathed in calmly. The white wolf started glowing brightly again, as it charged towards him. At the same time, Lafarga swung his sword back, preparing another cavalry charge.
Slowly but surely, Hotaru brought his spear in front of him, holding it by its pommel, while pushing the wide tip into the ground. He then brought his shield up to his shoulder, as close to his body as possible. Unable to trust the sound of Inouva's gallop, Hotaru waited till he could see his own shadow being cast on the ground by Inouva's light.
From one bodyguard to another…
As the deadly duo approached, they prepared to electrocute and decapitate Hotaru. The Magic Knights and Alcyone stared at him with bated breath, praying that the lime-eyed warrior knew what he was doing. Inouva and Lafarga were less than ten meters away, when Hotaru all of a sudden jumped.
Doing a standing pole-vault with his spear, Hotaru lifted his super dense body three meters high. At the same time, he twisted his body around, so that his shield was pointed towards Lafarga. With no time to change course, Inouva ran from underneath Hotaru, while Lafarga's sword struck against Hotaru's shield.
Despite Lafarga's sword managing to cut into Hotaru's shield, the brunette was the heavier of the two. Lafarga's body crashed into the shield, as if he had collided with a mountain. Even with Inouva's tendrils around his waist, he was struck back by the impact, and thrown off of his mount. Inouva howled in pain and was forced to let go of Lafarga, lest his tendrils would be torn off of him.
By the time Hotaru's feet touched the ground again, Inouva had run hundreds of meters away from him, and Lafarga lay on his back next to his feet. As he finally relaxed enough to exhale, he heard the girls and Alcyone applauding him.
"Thank you, Brock Sampson," Hotaru whispered under his breath.
Seeing that his passenger was defenseless, Inouva prepared to charge at Hotaru once more. But before he could take another step, Hikaru, Umi, and Fuu all rushed in front of him with their weapons drawn.
"Your fight is with us now, Inouva!" Hikaru challenged the elemental.
They could hear Inouva laughing inside their heads, "Fine, then I shall tear you apart first!"
While the Magic Knights kept Inouva busy, Hotaru switched his Silver Speed out for Steel Strength. He then proceeded to summon his giant golden blade from his left pauldron's orb, wielding it one-handed with his shield.
Lafarga, I know you are a decent guy, but as long as Zagato has you in his grips, I will have to beat some sense into you.
As Lafarga stood up off the ground, Hotaru could tell he was still under Zagato's control by his facial markings. Seeing the warrior's blurry eyes only confirmed this, as Lafarga brandished his sword once more. If the force of his earlier impact hadn't been able to knock Lafarga out of Zagato's spell, he needed an expert opinion.
"Alcyone, does he look like not all lights are on, or is it just me?" Hotaru asked the sorceress standing some ways behind him.
"You're right, Zagato has had him under his spell for the past fifteen years," Alcyone confirmed. "Though I am not sure how to break a spell like this."
"Really?" Hotaru asked, unable to hide his disappointment.
"I never felt the need to try and study on it!" Alcyone yelled defensively. "As far as I was concerned it was better to have him like that…"
"I guess that makes sense," Hotaru said, before quickly blocking Lafarga's attack.
Even without riding Inouva, Lafarga sword strikes were surprisingly heavy. What was even more impressive was their speed and accuracy. Even with Hotaru's supernatural strength and defense, the swordsman was constantly aiming for his vitals. Bringing his own sword down, Hotaru managed to crack the ground beneath them, causing Lafarga to lose his footing for a moment. However, the large swordsman was surprisingly nimble for his size and managed to roll over, stand up, and slice at Hotaru's side. Had he not gained the tassets of his armor only yesterday, he would now need new pants.
Stop resisting Lafarga! If I manage to break you out of your mind control, you will be a great help against Inouva! I really wish I could just ask Hikaru for her sword for this.
"Black Binding!"
As Lafarga charged at Hotaru again, several black rings surrounded and then tightened around him. The rings were stiff and rubbery, and had wrapped around his chest, waist, hips, knees, and ankles, preventing him from moving. Lafarga struggled against the black rings, stretching them out with his powerful muscles. But this gave Hotaru all the openings he needed.
"Nice one, Alcyone!" Hotaru thanked her, before slamming the broad side of his sword against Lafarga.
There was an audible clanging sound, as Lafarga was launched like a homerun pitch. The warrior dressed in blue armor flew over fifty meters in a sharp trajectory, before falling back down with a thud. As Alcyone and Hotaru wondered if they had gone too far, Lafarga snapped the black rings and stood back up. The blonde warrior then proceeded to swing his sword down at full force, sending a wave of destruction in the direction of Alcyone.
"Shit! Silver Speed!" Hotaru yelled, dropping Steel Strength.
With his giant sword disappearing in particles of light, Hotaru ran in front of Alcyone with his shield. The ground around them was crushed and shredded to gravel, but Hotaru's defenses held out.
"Are you okay?"
"Yes, thank you," Alcyone nodded, "what next?"
Seeing Lafarga running towards them at high speed, Hotaru summoned his black bladed rapier. With his speed and defense, he should be able to keep Lafarga busy until he could come up with something else. As he had already struck Lafarga with as much force as he dared to, he was running low on ideas.
"…Try giving him a cold shower," he suggested before charging forth.
Realizing what Hotaru meant, Alcyone used her levitation spell to fly high up into the air. From above, she saw Hotaru clashing with Lafarga, fighting defensively with his shield and rapier. While he managed to match Lafarga's speed, the difference in strength was enough to push Hotaru's weapons back, despite the increased density. Knowing there was no time to waste, Alcyone charged up her strongest spell.
"Frozen Finale!"
The wide area spell started freezing the ground below her as well as the two warriors. While she was hitting Hotaru too, she knew from firsthand experience how little he was bothered by the cold. The two warriors continued clashing, as ice started forming on their armors. But despite giving her everything, Lafarga didn't seem to be slowing down, nor was the mind control spell weakening.
Feeling the cold slowly start to bother him, Lafarga switched his attention back to Alcyone, "Annoying little gnat."
Seeing Lafarga choosing a new target, Hotaru dropped his rapier, "Don't you dare harm her!"
With an armored hook straight into Lafarga's jaw at top speed, the swordsman was sent flying once more. Lafarga was knocked back several meters, before falling on his back on the ground. The ice started forming around him and his limbs, encasing him slowly, making him feel the cold burn.
Seeing Lafarga struggle against the ice while using his shield to cover himself from Alcyone's spell, Hotaru quickly realized this plan was a bust.
"Alcyone, drop it! We need a new strategy."
On the other side of the battle field, the Magic Knights were doing their best against Inouva. The lightning wolf was fast and agile and as it charged forward, its electricity tore the ground up. But this was nowhere near as terrifying as its defenses.
"Winds of Admonishment!" Fuu cast emerald winds from her hands.
"Water Dragon!" Umi yelled out, summoning a dragon-shaped geyser.
"Ruby Lightning!" Hikaru fired off a red ball of lightning.
As the air currents wrapped around Inouva, he simply slithered out of them. As the water jet enveloped the wolf, his natural magical aura dissipated the spell. As Ruby Lightning flew at Inouva, the wolf simply swallowed the red ball. Having powered his way through all their spells, Inouva transformed into a lightning bolt and tore through the battlefield once more. Stones, dead roots, and even the Magic Knights were thrown aside as his true form plowed through.
Getting up after being tossed aside like a rag doll, Umi yelled, "Magic has no effect on him whatsoever!"
"It's not the first time we have fought such a foe!" Hikaru said confidently, before pulling out her sword again.
"But Ms. Hikaru!" Fuu interrupted her. "We already tried the swords!"
"The heart that believes becomes power!" Hikaru yelled, the sight of a small pair of shoes flashing before her eyes. "I will not allow there to be more victims of Zagato's cruelty! I will cut him in half!"
As Inouva came at her once more, Hikaru channeled all her kendo instincts, and swung her sword down, aiming for the wolf's heart. Her sword connected, but instead of striking flesh and blood, it was like her blade waded through water. By the time she realized this, it was too late.
"Aaaaahh!" Hikaru yelled, getting electrocuted by Inouva before being flung to the side of a mountain.
"Hikaru!"
"Ms. Hikaru!"
Umi and Fuu were about to share the same fate, as Inouva charged at them.
"Winds of Protection!" Fuu cast her spell, after they jumped out of the way.
The lightning and flying shrapnel was blocked by the green barrier of wind. Once Inouva had passed, Fuu dropped the spell and rushed over to Hikaru. Knowing Fuu was going to try and heal her, Umi readied herself to slow Inouva down.
"Hehahahahaha!" Inouva laughed malevolently. "This is too easy! I almost feel sorry for you girls!"
"If you're feeling sorry, why do you do this! Why do you allow Zagato to bring harm to innocent people!" Umi yelled, trying to buy some time.
"Sweet little girls like you would never be able to understand my true motives. As Lord Zagato's closest companion, my only dream is to see his wish be granted!"
Without further ado, Inouva charged at Umi once again. She was about to try her best to stab the wolf right in the eye, before Inouva was stopped by an attack from below.
"Ice Blade Avalanche!"
Dozens of crystalline blades of ice rose up from the ground. While they weren't able to harm Inouva, the surprise roadblocks managed to distract him enough to slow Inouva down. Annoyed by this sprouting ice, Inouva searched the area to find Alcyone. With Inouva distracted, he didn't notice as another figure flew in from the side.
"Argh!" Inouva groaned, feeling something jabbing his side.
Hotaru had flown in low with Aluminum Flight and Silver Speed, and jabbed his right-hand rapier into Inouva's flank. He had stabbed the other rapier into the ground, grounding Inouva. While the attack didn't damage the lightning wolf, it did zap away his charge temporarily. Seeing his power draining, Inouva jumped away from Hotaru, atop a natural stone pillar.
Coming back to consciousness, Hikaru yelled out, "Hotaru! Do you know a way to stop him!"
"No!" he lied. "But I am getting nowhere with Lafarga! He is under mind control so I don't want to kill him! Let's swap opponents!"
"But what do you want us to do?" Fuu asked, confused by his request.
"I don't know! Heal him, set him on fire, or something!" Hotaru yelled desperately, "Just go!"
Seeing how serious Hotaru was, the Magic Knights ran off to where Lafarga was being held down by ice. Realizing they might actually be able to break Lafarga's mind control, Inouva wasn't just going to let the Magic Knights go. However, Inouva wasn't the only one to realize this, as soon enough, his old foe stood before him on another stone plinth.
"So, you ready for round two, ya mongrel?" Hotaru challenged Inouva, brandishing his dual rapiers.
"You think you'll be able to fare any better than your little friends?" Inouva asked him mockingly, while regaining his electric charge. "The result of this battle will be the same as yesterday, but this time, I will tear your head off!"
"I don't know, I got some new tricks up my sleeve," Hotaru bluffed, smiling confidently.
In reality, Hotaru knew that Inouva's weak spot was the gem on his forehead. If he managed to strike it, the battle would be over. He hadn't told the girls about this since he shouldn't know about it. Furthermore, he had believed that Ferio would have called in to tell them, but as he had fought Lafarga, he had remembered something.
It has only been one day since Windam was revived. Ferio only learnt of Inouva's weakness since Emeraude's powers had weakened enough for them to remember their connection. That won't happen for at least a few more days, meaning only I know how to defeat him!
"Tungsten Defense!" Hotaru yelled, before charging towards Inouva.
"Die!" Inouva roared.
The two of them clashed together, with Hotaru blocking Inouva's claws with his rapiers. This block was followed by a roundhouse kick straight for Inouva's neck, but the elemental managed to weave around it. Inouva then tried to wrap his jaws around Hotaru's neck, but Hotaru managed to get his gauntlet in between. As Inouva bit his arm, Hotaru grounded himself with the other one. As the electrical charge flowed through him, the pain was immense. However, he knew he had to wait for the right moment.
Eventually Inouva's charge ran out once more, forcing him to let go of Hotaru's arm and take some distance from him. While the battle might have seemed like a stalemate, Inouva could tell that Hotaru was closing his limit. In a battle of attrition, he would win, for his magic had no limit, and Hotaru had no way of damaging him.
And yet, Inouva had no desire to drag this out, "This will be it! Prepare to meet your doom!"
A huge bolt of lightning fell down from the sky, striking Inouva directly. His silken fur turned into white glowing spikes, as Inouva increased his charge further and further. His golden eyes appeared as a black void against the light, as he stared murderously at Hotaru. He howled his battle cry before almost ripping the ground below him, as he prepared to charge forward at full speed.
Then, from behind a pile of rubble, "Black Binding!"
Before Inouva could spot Alcyone, black rings appeared around his front and hind ankles. As they tightened up, a third and fourth rings appeared around his muzzle and tendrils, before a fifth one hogtied his legs together. As he fell to the ground on his side, Inouva growled furiously, trying to figure out why he couldn't slither out of the binds.
But before he had time to guess their rubbery composition, Hotaru appeared before his very eyes in a flash. Their plan had worked, and Inouva was now helpless. With all his force, Hotaru drove his rapiers into Inouva's forehead gem. But as the golden tips of his rapiers were only inches away from the gem, they struck a purple barrier.
What!? Why isn't this working?
Arcs of white and black electricity were firing off in all directions, as the tips of the rapiers pressed against the barrier. Knowing there would not be a second chance, Hotaru thrusted his swords towards the gem harder and harder, using the full weight of his body. His entire field of view was covered in blindingly bright sparks, due to which he didn't notice the black rubber rings starting to melt.
"Hotaru, look out!" Alcyone yelled, trying to warn him.
As Inouva managed to free his muzzle and open his jaw, the sudden release of force overcame Hotaru's grip strength. His rapiers were sent flying, after which Inouva broke free of the remaining bindings, wrapping his tendrils around Hotaru's neck. With all his might, Inouva unleashed his remaining charge into Hotaru directly.
"Aaaarrrggggh!" Hotaru screamed in pain, his skeleton glowing red hot through his body.
"Hotaruuuuu!" Alcyone screamed, as she rushed over to him.
As Hotaru fell onto his back, Inouva retreated to a safe distance. He had already been caught by surprise once, he was not going to underestimate his foes again. As such, he started charging up again, planning to scorch Hotaru and Alcyone off the face of Cephiro together.
"Hotaru, please, wake up! Hotaru!" Alcyone called out his name until she reached him. "Ow! Hot!"
As she tried touching Hotaru, Alcyone almost burned herself. His body and armor were still glowing red at certain parts. But as she noticed that Hotaru wasn't breathing, she didn't care. Despite his chest being as hot as a frying pan, Alcyone desperately started doing chest compressions on him. As her hands started getting full of blisters, she grabbed a few remnants of her earlier Ice Blade Avalanche spell off the ground. She pressed the ice crystal against Hotaru's lips, cooling them off, before giving him mouth to mouth.
But as nothing seemed to work, Alcyone began to tear up, "Hotaru, don't leave me…"
With her tears turning to steam as they touched Hotaru's cheeks, Alcyone could only blame herself for their plan failing. After all, it was her bindings that had failed.
"Goodbye Alcyone," Inouva said his farewells to his former colleague, "may you two find happiness in the afterlife!"
The skies above started flashing, at which point Alcyone wondered if this truly was the end for them. But as she remembered all the times Hotaru had protected her today, she knew she couldn't give up. She picked up her golden scepter-like staff off the ground and stood up to face Inouva.
Holding back her tears so much that her throat hurt, she declared, "No! I already lost Zagato, I will not lose another man, who I LOVE!"
Just as Inouva was about to unleash his full fury upon his foes, a massive blue bolt of lightning struck down from the skies. The bolt of lightning struck Alcyone directly in her forehead gem. At first Inouva thought mother nature had taken care of Alcyone for him, until a blinding light shone from the sorceress.
"Nani?!" Inouva cringed, forced to look away from the light.
As the lightning was absorbed into her magic gem, Alcyone felt a surge of energy through her the likes of which she hadn't felt in decades. Her evolving armor started glowing, before it began to transform.
Instead of growing or expanding, it shrunk and became darker, with her pauldrons disappearing completely. Her dark red thigh high boots shortened slightly and her arm length gloves lengthened in return, before turning fully black and gaining purple gems on the backs of her hands. Her leotard's navel opening opened upwards, until it split completely in half, before turning black, with a gold trim around its edges. Her collar shrank down into a choker that covered half of her neck and had a golden arrow-shaped pendant on it, with a large purple gem embedded on it. The wing-like ornaments on her half circlet grew longer and darkened, before tapering into black horns. Her purple orb-like earrings gained additional golden attachments underneath them, and golden markings appeared on either side of her forehead gem.
Her white cape changed the most about her outfit. Its lower layer disappeared and its raised collar spread out, until it exposed her shoulders completely. A second inverted collar formed underneath it, giving her cape a triple layered look. Instead of being attached to her back, her cape was wrapped around her upper arms. The smooth edges of her cape sharpened into points and curves, resembling the edges of batwings.
Finally, Alcyone's golden staff grew longer and larger. Its handle grew almost twice as long and gained a handgrip. An oval eye-like decoration formed between the handgrip and the top of the scepter. The four golden crown-like spikes that supported the gem at its tip grew out. Two of them formed into claws that gripped the orb and the remaining two grew past it into a bident-like shape. From the sides of the bident, sprouted two golden batwing decorations.
As the light faded, Alcyone stood proudly in her new outfit. It looked far more sinister than its previous form, but it was fine, for it matched her mood.
"You disloyal bitch!" Inouva cursed at her, trembling with anger. "You held the potential for evolution, and only now do you bring it out! For that boy!"
"That's right," Alcyone said with a calm voice, staring at Inouva fiercely. "Because he made me realize something. You, Zagato, Emeraude, everyone around me, only ever saw me as a sorceress. A tool, a weapon, a magical aide, a monster! He was the only one who saw me as a human being!"
Sensing Alcyone's magical power rising, Inouva concentrated all of his built up lightning into a single burst. At the same time, blue lightning started appearing around the bident-like tip of Alcyone's staff. As Inouva fired off a beam of pure white lightning from his horn, a burst of lightning erupted from Alcyone's staff.
"Arile!"
The icy blue pulsating cone of lightning shot out and engulfed Inouva's attack, pushing it back. As Arile swept over Inouva, his natural magical resistance protected him from Alcyone's spell. However, it was unable to protect Inouva from his own attack. The white lightning collided with his gem, causing it to crack. With his energy leaking from his broken gem as a pillar of light, Inouva's fur lost its glow and he let out a pained wail.
"OOOWAAAAAH!"
"Go to Hell, Inouva!" Alcyone roared, before raising her staff up in the air.
A white lightning bolt fell down from the sky, hitting the purple gem at the tip of her staff. As the lightning coalesced into a bright ball of light, Alcyone pointed her staff at Inouva.
"Astra!"
The ball shot out at high speed, colliding with Inouva, before exploding as a humongous burst of white light. The nearby dust and rubble left behind by the battle was swept aside by the explosion, as it lit up the entire region. The Magic Knights watched from afar, as the light blinded them and Lafarga momentarily. As Inouva's body was ravaged by the explosion of thunder and lightning, only one thought ran through his mind.
Lord Zagato…
In his mind's eye, he could hear both his master and his creator grieving for his death. As his body turned into a bright pillar of light and returned to the base elements of Cephiro itself, Inouva let out one last sad howl.
Having been unconscious for who knows how long, Hotaru slowly opened his eyes. He was laying on his back, staring at the sky, but could only see half of it. While his body laid on hard rocky ground, his head rested against something soft. He was surrounded by bright green light, as he felt his sore body slowly feeling better.
"Look! He is waking up!" Hikaru yelled out cheerfully.
"Pupupuu!" Mokona chirped happily.
As Hotaru turned his head, he could see the Magic Knights all staring at him happily. Fuu was currently casting her Winds of Healing spell on him, while Umi and Hikaru just smiled happily. There was someone else nearby as well, but before he could address them, Hotaru felt a soft hand caress his cheek.
Supporting Hotaru's head on her lap, Alcyone smiled affectionately, "I am so glad you are okay."
Hotaru blushed lightly, smiling back, until something caught his attention, "Your outfit…"
Seeing his eyes widen, Alcyone chuckled, "That's right, you helped it to evolve."
"Somehow it got even more revealing," Umi commented with a sigh.
Hotaru stood up sitting, before turning to face Alcyone, "I… like it a lot. It suits you well."
Before Alcyon had time to thank him or Hotaru could ask what happened to Inouva, a gruff sounding cough interrupted them both. As Hotaru turned around, he could see Lafarga towering over the Magic Knights behind them. He no longer had his blue facial markings and the blonde swordsman's eyes were clear and pale blue. The girls were all bruised up still and had several cuts on their faces. Apparently, they had prioritized healing him instead of themselves.
"I heard from the Magic Knights that you and Lady Alcyone tried to break me out of Zagato's mind control earlier. My name is Captain Lafarga, and I apologize for my earlier behavior."
Seeing the swordsman bowing before him, Hotaru chuckled, "It's fine, it wasn't your fault. How did the girls manage to snap you out of it anyway?"
"Well, we tried almost everything, healing, water, disarming him," Fuu recounted, "but apparently Hikaru's Flame Arrow spell was able to burn away Zagato's influence."
Hikaru rubbed the back of her head awkwardly, "I'm a bit ashamed I had to resort to using magic against a fellow sword user. But I was in pretty bad condition after my fight against Inouva."
"No need to apologize. It was thanks to your flames that I was able to regain my freedom," Lafarga smiled gratefully. "I am more amazed by your friend still being alive after fighting Inouva."
"I would feel a lot better if I had actually beaten him," Hotaru grumbled as he rubbed his head while standing up. "It appears our final score will be o two."
"Don't worry about it," Alcyone smiled and winked, "I've already avenged you."
"It was amazing Hotaru! The entire battlefield went whoosh and then boom!" Hikaru acted out the events. "She managed to take out Inouva before we were finished with Lafarge."
"I can believe that," Hotaru smiled, glancing at Alcyone's outfit one more time.
"I am sure that with such a skilled fighter and sorceress by their side, the Magic Knights will have no difficulty taking down Zagato and rescuing Princess Emeraude and Cephiro," Lafarga smiled confidently at them all.
Before Hotaru could thank him, Alcyone spoke out in a grim voice, "Unfortunately it won't be that simple. Defeating Zagato won't be enough to save Cephiro."
"Why not, Ms. Alcyone?" Fuu asked, as Hotaru went pale as a sheet.
"Zagato did not capture Princess Emeraude so that he could rule Cephiro," Alcyone informed them with a grave tone of voice. "He started this battle because of the mutual love between him and Princess Emeraude."
"Wait, what has love got to do with any of this?" Hikaru asked, tilting her head.
At this point, Hotaru's mind was flat-lining. There was nothing he could do to stop Alcyone from spilling the beans. All he could do was scream internally so as not to faint again.
"Wait… if Princess Emeraude is in love with Zagato, then that means… oh no…" Lafarga's expression grew desperate.
"Pu puu…" Mokona chirped quietly, its ears drooping.
"Can someone please already spit out!" Umi demanded impatiently.
"The Pillar of Cephiro supports the planet by praying to it constantly," Alcyone explained in detail. "Me, Zagato, Clef, and Lafarga were all tasked with either protecting Princess Emeraude or assisting in her praying. While the Pillar holds supreme power over the lands, they themself cannot desire anything else than the wellbeing of Cephiro. If kept distracted from this duty for a long period of time, the planet will fall to ruin, as you can now see."
Trying her best to understand what was going on, Hikaru asked with a trembling voice, "Then… why did Zagato capture Princess Emeraude?"
"To protect her from us…"
Everyone turned towards Hotaru, who had a grim look on his face, the likes of which they had never seen before. He was clenching his armored fists and there was a frightening look to his eyes.
Realizing the cat was out of the bag, Hotaru could only minimize the damage done, "If I understand this correctly, a Pillar who has fallen in love with someone else, can no longer support the planet. That means a new Pillar must be chosen instead, but since this has not already happened, it means the position is for life."
Lafarga nodded, "That is correct. The position of the Pillar can only be relinquished upon their death. This is so that there cannot be any coups."
"And on that note, the people of Cephiro cannot harm the pillar directly," Hotaru continued. "As Clef said, the people of Cephiro cannot fix this themselves. Hence why the Magic Knights were summoned by Princess Emeraude."
Umi's eyes widened, "So… Princess Emeraude…"
"Summoned us to be her…" Hikaru continued.
"Executioners?" Fuu's eyes narrowed into dots.
"And Zagato wants to stop you girls from doing so," Alcyone admitted with a heavy heart.
"One willing to sacrifice herself for the world, the other willing to sacrifice the world for her," Hotaru summarized the plot, holding back tears. "It is tragic, but if Zagato is not stopped, and the Pillar isn't replaced, Cephiro, and everyone on it, will be destroyed."
Now that the Magic Knights were aware of the truth, their reactions were what Hotaru would have expected. Umi wrapped her arms around herself, as it looked like she was going to be sick. Fuu bowed her head down and bit on her knuckle, trying to reason with herself. Hikaru was clenching her fists and gritting her teeth, while tearing up fiercely.
"It's… so, horrible…" Umi uttered, holding back her tears.
"Even if we do it, then what about the next person who will be chosen as the pillar?" Fuu asked, worrying over their future.
"All this time, this world hid such a cruel secret," Hikaru spoke frustratedly, as images of beautiful landscapes filled her mind.
Seeing the pain that the Magic Knights were in, Alcyone couldn't help but feel sorry for her former foes. She felt both awful for having tried to hinder their mission, as well as that they were tasked with it in the first place. If she could destroy Zagato and Princess Emeraude and become the new pillar herself, she would. However, she knew neither of those were possible.
With no other options at his disposal, Hotaru walked in front of the three girls, "I'll do it."
The Magic Knights raised their heads, seeing Hotaru's serious expression. There was no hesitation in his voice, nor was there uncertainty on his face. Only steeled determination and suppressed sorrow.
"I am the one who wishes for this world to continue existing and to live in it," Hotaru said, as if admitting to a crime. "If you don't feel like you want to have any part in this, then I will execute Princess Emeraude myself. I don't know how I will do it, but I'll figure something out."
Hotaru knew taking on Zagato and Princess Emeraude by himself would be suicide. However, he was the one who had rescued Alcyone. He was the one responsible that the Magic Knights had been made aware of the final plot twist too early. If the world was to be doomed because of his actions, then he had no right to refuse.
Hotaru turned towards Lafarga before asking, "Can you please protect them? Make sure they stay safe until all of this is over."
Before Lafarga could answer, Hotaru turned towards Alcyone, "Alcyone, I know you won't be able to do much against Emeraude, but… I really want you by my side."
Alcyone was shocked by this request, but the answer was clear, "If there is one place that I want to spend the rest of my days at, it is by your side, Hotaru."
Hotaru could feel a warm sensation taking over his heart, as he saw Alcyone's genuine smile and misty eyes. Once they were alone, the first thing Hotaru would do, would be to pull her in for a kiss.
"I'll do it!" Hikaru yelled out.
Surprised, Alcyone, Hotaru, and Lafarga, all turned towards the short, red-clad Magic Knight. While she had been broken up by the true nature of her mission just a minute ago, Hikaru now stood confidently before them.
"While I do not like it, it's not like I can just let things be!" she announced loudly.
"Ms. Hikaru is right," Fuu admitted, straightening her back proudly. "High Priest Zagato and Princess Emeraude may be in love with one another, but their love cannot end the loves and lives of others!"
"This world is all sorts of messed up…" Umi bellyached, but lowered her arms down nonetheless, "but if Hotaru thinks it is worth saving, then I believe it!"
"Everyone…" Hotaru looked at them, not sure whether he should feel guilt-ridden or proud. "…There is only one Mashin left. After that, you will be full fledged Magic Knights. Are you ready?"
"Yes!" all three of them nodded.
Having said their farewells to Lafarga, the former captain of the guard had taken his leave. The swordsman told them that he was going to protect the surviving people of Cephiro from monsters, while they finished their mission. Hotaru was going to suggest he would either stick around or go help Presea, Ascot, and the others, but there would be no time for this. Nor did Mokona's shelter have any more room left.
With Alcyone's weapon and armor having evolved, her magical powers had also increased. She no longer had difficulty keeping up with the others, when using her levitation spell. While her new outfit looked even more villainous than before, she was happy with how liberating wearing it was. Both physically and mentally.
By the time night fell, they could see the flames of a large volcano on the horizon. They were tired from battles against monsters, a whole day of travel, and the several close calls with Lafarga and Inouva. As such, despite another earthquake, they decided to rest for the night. As the Magic Knights had been on breakfast duty, Hotaru and Alcyone dealt with the dinner. With a few tips on how to make noodles from Fuu, Hotaru had thrown together a quick meal of ramen.
Not long after eating, they all finished their bedtime routines, and turned in for the night.
"Good night, everyone!" Hikaru said while hugging Mokona.
"Good night!" others responded, before the lights turned off.
Just like last night, Alcyone had shared her bed with Hotaru. Expecting them to sleep back-to-back like last night, she was surprised by Hotaru wrapping his arms around her. Smiling impishly, she turned onto her left side to face him.
"Oh? What is the occasion?" she quietly asked teasingly. "You weren't so handsy last night."
Hotaru gazed into her eyes and whispered, "Yesterday when I said I loved you, you never said it back. Now you have."
Alcyone's eyes widened and her cheeks blushed deep red, "Y-You heard that…?"
"Right before falling unconscious," Hotaru winked, before pulling her closer to him. "I wanted to be sure you felt the same, before I got handsy with you."
Hearing the passion in his voice, Alcyone leaned in towards his lips, as Hotaru did the same.
"Oi!" an annoyed voice whispered, startling the two of them.
Umi, who was a notoriously light sleeper, was sitting on the Magic Knight's bed and glared tiredly at them in the darkness.
"Mom and dad should keep quiet when sleeping in the same room with children," she scolded them, before laying down once more.
Not wanting to disturb the others, Hotaru and Alcyone just smiled and huddled close together, falling asleep soon after.
Author's Afterword: And here I thought the last chapter was lengthy! Even when I cut stuff out of this one it still came out two pages longer. I thought about making this a two-parter but there was no good spot to put the split. Nevertheless, this is probably my favorite chapter so far.
I added in some extra bits of lore, some call backs to other mediums of MKR (Manga and OVA), a couple juicy references, and what I like the most, slice of life. Showing how members of a group act together in their day to day lives always adds a feeling of homeliness to a story.
As for what I left out, well, I had always planned on having both Lafarga and Inouva attack together. After all, with our trio having grown into a quintet, having the enemies attacking one at a time wouldn't be all that interesting. But in addition to this, I had planned on having Ferio to regain his memories and telling the Magic Knights about Inouva's weakness. Only for them to yell it out in the open, making Inouva look out for this, and giving Hotaru the L once more.
But yeah, the main focus of this chapter was Alcyone. At this point in the series, she would be by far the weakest member of the group, hence an evolution would be needed. As her Season 2 outfit is my favorite, I felt no need to come up with my own. But since this was achieved without Debonair's influence, she still has purple gems instead of crimson ones. Also, she isn't powerful enough to blast Mashins down from the sky.
As always, reviews and speculations are welcomed and appreciated. Thank you to merendinoemiliano and TheMotivatedOne, as well as the anonymous Guest, for your reviews on the last chapter!
