Hey, Guys...

I know you all must have a lot of questions, and I wish I was there with you all to explain...but I can't come back to Yokai Academy just yet. But don't you guys worry about me, I'm okay. My injury, though I'm still not entirely sure how, has completely healed and I feel right as rain.

It's been two weeks since our last encounter with Kuyo, I hope this letter finds you all well. I've finally been granted to send you guys letters of my progress, it took a lot of pleading but I'm happy that Master Fuhai allowed me to come in contact with you guys. Ah...that's right, you guys have no idea who I'm talking about.

Well, there's no exact easy way to put this, so I'm just gonna be straightforward with you all. I'm what my kind know as the 'Blessed Child.' Yukari should know exactly who I'm talking about, and she'll probably explain it better than I can. It turns out that Merlin, the greatest and most powerful Wizard who ever lived, had picked a child at random to be blessed with his power. And...it's me. I woke up with a strange symbol embedded into my left arm, it turns out that my mom had me cursed as an infant to hide me from those who would want to use me as some sort of weapon against the humans.

My mother explained the whole situation. She had taken me after our battle to the home of one of the three Dark Lords, Touhou Fuhai, the most powerful Sorcerer currently living. Again, Yukari can probably explain better than I can. I was just as shocked when I woke up in the middle of Hong Kong.

As for when I'll come back...I've been told that my training to harness and control my newfound power could take at least a month. But I should be able to return by then, I just need Master Fuhai to be able to trust me enough to go back to Yokai Academy. He's already taken my phone so I wouldn't be distracted, but at least he's allowing me to write these letters every week. I was told that the Headmaster would at least inform Ms. Nekonome about my situation and I trust she'll tell you all. Though, I don't think she'd be informed about everything so that's why I wanted to write these letters.

Tsukune, while I'm gone, I want you to do everything in your...newfound power to keep the girls safe. I may not know what happened to you, but I saw a vision of how you and I fought Kuyo side by side, you were so fucking badass, brother. I'm counting on you, okay?

Moka, make sure you keep smiling, it's honestly the best part of everyone's day. No matter how much everyone fusses with each other, you always bring the best out of everyone with your kindness. So keep it up. Also, tell the Inner you that I'll be waiting for our impending sparring sessions, I think she has a lot to teach me. And also, take good care of my brother, okay?

Yukari, I honestly don't know how you might take all of this. I don't if you're excited, astonished, or even downright confused. But I know that you'll be there to support the others in my absence, and I know you can ease their minds about this whole situation. I trust you, lil sis.

Mizore, I know you see yourself as the quiet and antisocial girl with a heart as cold as ice, pun intended, but that's not who I see at all. You show so much care for our friends even when you don't even mean to. The only thing I ask is that you be upfront about your feelings in a more genuine way, and not go out of your way to exploit yourself like some common girl. It's the simplest of gestures that can be worthwhile to any person.

Ruby, you showed up and helped me and my friends when we needed you the most, I'm forever grateful for you. I'm glad I can call you my friend, hopefully, you already call me the same. Keep an eye out for my friends while I'm gone, okay?

Gin, I know you and I never really got along, and we never talked much outside of the Newspaper Club, but you showed your true colors that day. You put your life on the line for me and the others, that shows true loyalty. No matter your...flaws, I can gladly call you a friend.

Ms. Nekonome, my Mother spoke highly of you, she told me that you and she were best friends back in your young days at Yokai Academy. I already liked you as a teacher, and I trust you to look after the Newspaper Club like you always have.

...Kurumu. There's really so much I could say, but I wouldn't be able to stop. I suppose the first thing I should say is...I'm sorry. I'm sorry you had to see me like that, that you...had to watch me practically die. I'm sure you're hurting, you're confused, and above all...I'm sure that you're devastated that I have to be away for so long. But I promise you, I'm heading straight back to Yokai Academy the first moment Fuhai says I can. In the meantime, just keep being the same girl that I came to know for me, okay? I don't like it when you're sad, and I'm sure the others don't like it either. The moment I see you again, I'll give you the best hug in the world, and we can listen to music together just like always, for as long as you want to.

I'll be back before you guys even know it...

Your closest friend, Elijah...

"Space and Time..."

Fuhai projects Merlin's symbol into the air above me as I kneel in the middle of the courtyard. Today, now that I've gone through most of my physical training, we're focusing on the very symbol that bears into my arm. Each symbol represents the very fundamentals of each aspect of magic. The first symbol resembles two crescent moons mirroring each other in a circle, it glows a bright green as well.

"This domain is used to master spells and incantations such as time manipulation, astral projection, and more complex abilities such as these."

"Time manipulation? So...We can time travel?" I ask.

Fuhai chuckles. "Not quite, young Everett. You can manipulate the time and space you are currently living in. Some have mastered the ability to slow down time itself and even speed it up itself."

"Huh..." I wonder if I could stop time long enough to take naps in the middle of class, that'd be so damn convenient.

"Motion..." Fuhai waves his hand, the floating symbol slightly changing. It forms a circle with a cross attached on one end and a half circle on the other. This symbol glows an ethereal blue, just like it did in my vision. "This domain is used to master movement-related spells such as telekinesis, levitation of oneself or others, and enhancing conjured air blasts. I'm sure you're familiar with the latter, Everett, seeing that you gave that Fox Demon a good thrashing."

I nod, feeling my smile form into a smirk. "I'd gladly do it again, sir."

My words make Fuhai scowl. "Control that short temper of yours, Young Everett. Need I remind you that under the wrong influence, your power has the potential to bring about the end of days?"

I sigh. "No, sir. You made that very clear during my physical training."

"Speaking of that, I need you to remove your top."

"Uh, what?"

"I want to see your progress is all, get your mind out of the gutter!"

"Do you really blame me? You've seen all the people I've had to fight back at Yokai Academy."

"...Touche." I nodded and went ahead to remove my button-down. "Impressive, you've made excellent progress. Just remember to keep up your physique with your daily routine."

I look down, seeing the changes in my torso. I feel a sense of pride as my fingers grazed over my newly developing four-pack. I don't think my body has been in this kind of shape before, I smile to myself as I remember how out of shape I used to be in my childhood. AT least Fuhai allows me to use my new portable CD player to listen to my new Skillet album as I sweated my ass off.

I wonder what Kurumu would think of... I shake my head, I can't think like that right now. "Go on, Master Fuhai."

He nods and waves his hand again, the floating symbol molds into a plus sign made of smaller circles, and it glows an eerie red. "Matter... This domain is used to master the magical abilities of the very fabric of existence, allowing wizards and sorcerers alike to manipulate energy such as electricity and plasma as well as forging objects from air molecules."

"Wait, if that's the case, couldn't magic like that solve world hunger?"

My question makes Fuhai chuckle. "That's what you would do with such power? Fascinating, but I'm afraid there's a more dangerous matter in regards to the world. But we can get to that another day. The modern-day humans don't even know of our existence...for now."

"More dangerous?" I mutter under my breath. Does this have anything to do with that name from my vision...Alucard? I get a strange feeling in my stomach whenever my mind goes back to that name...like It won't be the last I hear of it.

"Elements..." Master Fuhai went on with his explanation. The symbol above me changes into what can only be described as a closed four with the closing line circling to the top of it. It shines a yellow color. "This domain is used to master the four elements of nature. Such as.-"

"Water... Earth... Fire... Air..." I smile as I feel a sense of nostalgia waves over me.

"Yes, exactly..."

Fuhai shrugs off my reference as it is nothing as he continues. "Transformation..." The symbol changes once again, this time, the line forming the closed four shapes itself into a cubical number two with four lies dangling at the bottom. This one has a warm orange glow. "The domain for mastering spells that alter both properties and appearance of oneself and or desired target. For example, in the ways of matter, spells can be used to manipulate the desired target's structure itself."

"Meaning one could transform anything by simply having the skill," I state. I know most of this already but I don't want to interrupt.

"Correct. Merlin himself could take any form of any animal, monster, or mystical creature of his desire. He could even transform himself into the tiniest living organism, even going as far as changing into a germ or a virus."

"That's...amazing," I say astonished. "But...that's also very bad if used by the wrong people. Someone could simply wipe out species just by making a deadly plague."

"Exactly," The last symbol above takes its form, turning into another four, this time it's opened and the lines are squiggly. This one glows a bright pink. "Mind... A domain where one masters abilities such as telepathy, hypnosis, second sight, and others."

I nod. "So, those are the six?" Fuhai shakes his head, surprising me.

"There is the last, the most important and equally dangerous domain of all..." Fuhai raises his hand, the symbol is split into and forms all the previous ones form before. The circle that encloses each one glows a pure white. "Love..."

"Love?" I tilt my head.

Fuhai nods. "Yes. Many of our kind have believed that it is the most powerful source of a spellcaster's magic."

"...But why?"

"Said emotion not only awakens one's latent power within, but it can make someone unstoppable. Many sorcerers and Wizards alike have achieved such power by winning the hearts of their love interests, or a strong desire to reunite and protect their loved ones. While they were powerful, no Wizard or Sorcerer had ever surpassed Merlin's strength...or my own. Even humans are capable of such resolve. There is that Tsukune Aono you keep mentioning, you claim as if he's the strongest human ever encountered."

"He may as well be," I confirm. "I don't think I've met another human like him, his resolve shadows my own of not outshine it."

"We'll see about that..." Fuhai looks skeptical. "As for the most dangerous part," He continued, the circle now turning pitch black and sending a chill down my spine. "There is the forbidden domain of Magic... I'm sure you're already aware of the three Forbidden Spells, young Everett?"

"...Yes."

"And they are?"

"..."

My mother would warn me about the three Forbidden Spells, it's considered a crime for our kind or a last resort. But one of them...they're absolutely unforgivable.

"First...there's the Imperium Curse. When one uses this spell, the victim must obey the caster. The caster's resolve must outweigh its victim's to take effect. This may seem harmless to most, but not when the victim is forced to perhaps jump out of the window...or drown themselves. Even if they use it for a harmless purpose, one wrong move could permanently destroy one's mind. Many dark Wizards, Sorcerers, Mages, and Warlocks alike have claimed to do their deeds under the influence of the Imperium curse. But here lies the rub... How does one sort out the liars?"

"How indeed..."

"...The Tormentum Curse," I say, feeling my skin crawl. "This spell brings immense pain to the victim as if they were being stabbed by millions of tiny needles over and over again until they give what the caster wants...or is the victim goes insane." My mother was on the receiving end of this spell when she first encountered a Warlock... I feel a sense of anger wash over me at the mere thought.

"Calm yourself, young Everett. The last?"

"...The Mortem Curse. In other words...the Killing Curse. It instantly and painlessly kills the victim...and there's no way to counter such a spell. It can only be blocked or dodged. To take life with just an utter of one word...you may as well be playing God."

"Yes... But that is why I am here, Everett." Fuhai's smaller form walks up to me and the symbols fade into thin air, revealing the morning sun. "You were a formidable foe using only Tarot cards as your source of power. But with my guidance, you can become so much more. No one would dare challenge you."

"..." While that does sound awesome... "I don't want to use this power so overthrow anyone, I only wish to harness it so that I can protect my friends and those that I love."

"While that is a noble goal, Everett, that is not enough. I cannot allow a power such as yours to fall into the wrong hands. If you were to lose them, it could mold you into what I always feared when Merlin's power was passed down."

"It won't come to that!" I retort.

"And if it does?"

"...I-"

"You can't save everyone, Elijah Everett. I learned that harsh lesson a long time ago. You need to become far more than you already are, that is why you were brought to me."

"..." The way he said that... Why do I feel so...unsettled by it?

"It's time we move onto phase two of your training, young Everett. Show me what you can do," Fuhai takes a few steps back, getting into a fighting stance. "Concentrate, use any spells that you can manage to conjure against me."

"I'm sorry, what?"

Fuhai smirks at me. "Oh? Do I sense a feeling of hesitation? What happened to 'bring it on, old man'? You were blessed with unimaginable power and this is the best you can do? Prove me wrong, Elijah Everett!"

"..."

I get into a fighting stance, taking a deep breath and allowing every part of my body to flow with energy. But there is a small itch in the back of my mind that I cannot seem to shrug off. Is this really who I'm supposed to be?

One week later...

Hey, Guys...

I haven't heard from you guys since the last time I wrote. I understand if you're confused or...even angry with me that I can't come back, but I should be able to return in just a few weeks. I promise. As for my progress... That's a little hard to explain.

So far, my training has been solely focused on tapping into my 'True Power' like I did when I faced Kuyo—you know, the white hair and blue eyes thing. Master Fuhai has been pushing me beyond my limits to find out just how I trigger it, he tells me that my mana count is overwhelmingly endless when I'm in that state. That sounds...awesome to me, but also terrifying.

I've been exhausted to the point where I can barely stand for the past week. The physical part of my training was easy so I figured that utilizing my magic would be just as easy, I don't think I've ever worked so hard in my life. My progress is at least improving...by which I mean using spells. I don't even need to use Tarot Cards anymore to defend myself or protect you guys. I still have a lot to learn. I just can't wait to show you guys what I can do.

Teleportation... Transformation... Elemental abilities... Matter transmogrification... The possibilities are endless! I'm just so eager to learn how to do it all...I just wish Master Fuhai wasn't so keen on me prioritizing my 'True Power'.

At least I have my parents here to support me. My Mom kept reassuring me like she would when I was a kid, saying that I was gonna be a great Wizard. My Dad was just as supportive, he even picked me up after a rough sparring session with Master Fuhai. I think this is their way of showing how even after they lied...they will always have my back. I really owe them everything.

Elijah the Wizard... Kinda has a nice ring to it, huh?

But enough about me... How are you guys? Is the Newspaper Club thriving? How's Tsukune's condition? Are you guys keeping up your studies? Are you guys considered heroes after taking down the Security Committee? Has anyone given you guys any trouble while I was gone?

What am I talking about? I'm sure you guys would've taken care of it...I bet you all kicked ass.

Damn...the ink is gonna run if I keep crying like this. Just a few more weeks and I'll be back. We should all throw a big celebration for our triumph over the Security Committee, with just us, of course. We don't have to make it about me coming back...but I wouldn't exactly say no to it.

I really miss you guys, I promise I'll be back as soon as I can.

Your friend...Elijah...

"Hey, Elijah?"

I turn from my desk, seeing Fang Fang peeking his head into the room. "What is it, Fang Fang."

"Grandfather is waiting."

I internally sigh, setting down my pen and I fold my letter into a small envelope. "I'm coming, just make sure this gets posted, okay?"

He takes the letter from my hand and nods. "Right..."

Fang Fang leaves with my letter. I've made amends with the guy, he understands why I panicked like I did. Although...he's given me strange looks every time I pass by him, almost like he's...checking me out? Eh, it's probably just my stress getting to me, he's not a bad guy, after all.

I stand from my chair and begin to stretch like I do every morning. I skipped my morning PT so I could write my letter to my friends, I don't really care even if it falters my progress for a second. Fuhai may say that my True Power is what matters most right now, but all I care about is getting back to my friends. I'm grateful for all he's doing, but it feels like I'm just being molded into what he wants. It's like I can't even decide for myself anymore. Even during dinner, he snatches my second plate away from me, saying 'Merlin could only survive months at a time on nothing but the dew of a single ginko leaf and the energy of the universe'.

I honestly don't even know how I remember exactly what he said, but I like food, Old Man! Let me eat!

I take a deep breath before my anger can rise even further. I keep telling myself that he's helping me, that getting angry will only make things a hindrance to what he's doing for me. At least he hasn't taken my music away from our sessions.

I leave the room, Immediately bumping into Ling Ling and accidentally knocking her head off...again. "Oh, sorry, Ling Ling."

Her head rolls on the floor for a second before it looks up at me...sending a slight chill down my spine. "It's quite alright, Elijah. After all, I'm already dead!"

She sure likes reminding people of that...

"Would you mind giving a lady a hand?" Ling Ling says, her body gesturing to her head on the floor.

"Oh, right... Sorry, again..."

Holding the urge to crawl out of my skin, I pick up her head from the floor and place it on her shoulders. It stays upright and I'm instantly reminded of her height, she's almost as tall as me.

"Thank you, Elijah," She smiled. "Grandfather is waiting for you in the courtyard like always."

"I'll head there now."

"And do try to be more understanding of his ways."

"What do you mean?"

"I know that you've been struggling to understand why he pushes you beyond your limits, our grandfather has been known to be impatient, especially with those he teaches. You already know he has waited over two hundred years for the Blessed Child to be born."

I sigh. "Yes, I'm aware. I wish he'd tell me what exactly he's preparing me for, all this training simply can't be for protecting my friends, but that's honestly all I care about."

"That may be so, but I'm not sure that's what destiny has in store for you."

"..."

I internally sigh at the mention of that word, leaving Ling Ling to tend to her daily routine as I head to the courtyard. That word is all I ever hear anymore when it comes to this whole thing. I never liked the idea of destiny, it ultimately undermines the very idea of free will. I always imagined what it would be like if I could create my own magic and be a great wizard. But...surely Merlin didn't have a teacher of his own, right? Even if he did, I don't know if he crammed the idea of destiny down his throat all the time. I still don't even know what my 'destiny' is. As far as I can see...it's whatever Fuhai wants me to do...

I entered the courtyard, and instantly met with Fuhai scowling at me. "You're late, Young Everett."

I sigh at his rising annoyance. "Sorry, sir. I was just finishing my letter to my friends. Again, I can't thank you enough for allowing me to keep in touch with them."

"Hmph. Of course, you were. Always getting distracted..." Fuhai muttered, crossing his arms.

I kneel in the middle of the courtyard. "Well, I'm here now, sir. So, what's in store for today? Elemental spells? Healing? Transformation? I know I'm having trouble with the last one, but I came close to turning into an owl last night. Oh, I can manifest a few familiars as well now."

Fuhai chuckles at my eagerness. "No, No, Young Everett. I have something else I require you to focus on."

I tilt my head slightly to the left. "What's that?"

"I'm sure you remember your first…'transformation', Merlin himself had taken control of you in your moment of desperation. Not just his power runs through your veins...a major part of him lives in you."

I nod. "Yes. It's... It's still pretty surreal seeing myself do all that stuff. I looked...pretty fucking cool."

Fuhai chuckled, finding amusement in my description. "While you were, 'cool', as you say, that was only because Merlin himself had taken control and lent you his hand. You must learn to bring that power out on your own and, most of all, control it. That will be our next focus on your training."

"..." Fuhai has a point. "So, how do we begin?"

Fuhai's small figure approaches me. "Close your eyes, and let the magic within you flow from the top of your head to the end of your fingertips. Allow your body to evoke the ancient power."

"But, sir...wouldn't it be the same as before? Wouldn't the part of Merlin that lives in me be the one in control and not myself? Or..." I think back to my first day here at the estate, about how I lost control and hurt my parents. "What If I lose control?"

"That's the point of this training," He snapped. "It matters not what the outcome is, you need to be able to control it whenever you please." Fuhai now looks a little irritated, but his intense gaze has not lessened at all.

"...Understood," I responded with a sigh.

I take a deep breath and clear my mind, this isn't so different from my meditation teachings. As I begin, I can actually feel the magic within my body, it surges through my muscles as I breathe in through my nostrils and out my mouth. It feels as if something is living inside of me.

Merlin, I need your guidance... My own voice echoes through my head, and soon after...somewhere within my mind responds. It's softly spoken, but commanding in its presence.

"Yes, Young Everett, I am here." His voice echoed through my head and a familiar feeling booms in my chest. I wonder if this is how Moka feels with Inner Moka...

Merlin, I don't understand... Why am I still here with Fuhai? I've learned more than enough already. My friends, they need me. And...I need them.

"Fret not, young man. You will see your friends again. As for now... You have yet to realize your true potential. You are far more than what you already are, harness the power within you, and make it yours."

But...the power is not truly my own, you gave it to me...at random might I add.

Merlin doesn't respond immediately, perhaps thinking carefully about what I said. When he does, each word is like a pebble dropping into still water.

"Perhaps, this is true. But it was you who'd been blessed with it, was it not?"

...Well, yeah, but...why me of all people? You even said so yourself that you wouldn't know what or who would be blessed with your power.

"Hahaha... Destiny is a curious thing, my friend. Don't you think? Heed my words, Elijah Everett. Forge your destiny...with thine own hands!"

My eyes open suddenly after Merlin's final words to me, the prodigious energy leaves my body. My breathing slowly recedes and my heart steadily beats. "I...I heard him, Fuhai. I..." When I look back up, I notice... "...Master Fuhai?"

I've only ever seen his true form a handful of times, only when he's gotten angry with my tardiness or during our sparring sessions. Unlike his elder state, his true appearance is younger and taller with long black hair, and there's a tattoo on his chest that takes the form of some kind of sun.

"...You almost had it, what made you stop?" He demanded. "You were this close to bringing him out!"

"But he-"

"I'm sure he had something interesting to say to you, Young Everett. Frankly, I'd prefer if I were to hear it from him. That is the point of this," Fuhai turns away, and the courtyard seems to darken with his anger. "Perhaps this gift wasn't supposed to be yours."

"..." I try to ignore that last mutter from him, but it hurts. I thought I was making excellent progress in the past weeks, even my family sees my progress. What am I doing wrong? "What are you-"

"Again," Fuhai cuts me off before he turns back to me. "Evoke the power within, we will keep doing this until sundown if we must. Am I making myself clear?"

"..." I do my best not to scowl, letting my rising anger go back down. "...Crystal."

Several days later...

...Hey, guys.

Still no word, but I keep sending you guys letters. I'm sure you guys are just busy, who knows what Ms. Nekonome has you guys doing? I just hope that...you're not all mad at me. I wanna be back with you guys so badly. But Fuhai isn't letting me leave until I complete this part of my training.

What I mean is... I must learn to harness the ancient magic within me so I can go into that state on my own. You know, the whole white hair and blue eyes thing? I've been trying for the past several days, and I've made little progress. The first time, I managed to hear the voice of Merlin. He said that this 'gift' was mine and that I should forge my destiny with my own hands, yet Fuhai didn't seem to care. The only thing he seems to care about is me getting control of this power, or perhaps...getting Merlin out. It's all I ever hear anymore. Merlin this, Merlin that... It's like I have no voice anymore.

This whole 'destiny' thing has made me think... Do I really have a choice here? At first, I feel like this whole thing could actually be a turning point in my life, but now it's like I'm only doing what someone else wants me to do. It's like...I have no free will as long as I'm here.

That's it, the moment Fuhai sees that I can control it on my own, I'm leaving this place and coming back to Yokai Academy. I can make it on my own from there. Don't worry guys, I won't be too long now.

Tsukune, Moka, Mizore, Yukari, Ruby, Gin...Kurumu...

I'll be home soon...

Elijah...

"Concentrate, Young Everett," Fuhai's small, elderly form speaks as I kneel in the courtyard. "Remember what I taught you."

"...Yes, Master Fuhai." I take a deep breath, clearing my head.

"You have made excellent progress in the past weeks. When you first came here, you were but a novice. Yet, in your short time, you've become a far more advanced Wizard than most could hope to achieve in years."

"..." I feel somewhat flattered by this compliment, it's not often I hear something like this from Fuhai. "Thank you, sir."

"However, that will amount to nothing if you can't control that true power within you," There it is again, right on queue like the past few days. "Don't let your previous flukes fool you."

"...Yes, sir," I say through clenched teeth.

I know this responsibility, it feels like a mountain on my shoulders I'm also aware of the burden it can carry, a day hasn't gone by when I think about the darker side of this power getting the best of me. Merlin feared this side of him as well, he could wipe our entire species if he wanted to in his time.

I've been using the same approach to this... I really need to come up with a name for my transformation. Hmm... 'Ancient Manifestation'... Yeah, that has a nice ring to it. The progress of my Ancient Manifestation hasn't moved, clearing my head of any thoughts hasn't seemed to do me any good...so I try something else.

Tsukune...

I can see clear as day...all of our time together at Yokai Academy. The day we met, when we first met Moka, how we would laugh at each other's misfortune, how much we were alike in some ways, and how well we fought alongside each other to protect our friends. Tsukune Aono... You really are like the brother I could ever hope for.

Moka...

Like before, I can see memories of time together as they play in my head. Moka's the kind of person whose kindness could brighten anyone's day, I could use her sunny attitude right about now. Even though her...other half is not as sunny. But...I do miss our casual banter whenever she would show up, I wonder if she looks forward to what I can do. Sure, I'll get my ass kicked, but at least I can put up a better fight now. You two better be keeping an eye on my boy, you hear?

Yukari...

That girl is someone I had more in common with than I originally thought. Like me, she had no one to relate to for most of her childhood, and she too was ridiculed for simply being what she is. Now she has people to lean on, people that care for her. She's not like any other kid I've seen, so willing to grow up in such little time. She should enjoy being a kid while she can. I think back to how Tsukune would often refer to us as siblings, and...that still makes me happy in some way. I know I'm not really family, Yukari. But I hope you at least see me in that regard.

Mizore...

Sure, it was creepy beyond reason that she stalked Tsukune and me before we officially met, but she's a kind person with a passion no normal person would understand. Even she didn't deserve to be nearly molested by that god-forsaken man. I'm glad we helped her when we did. Still...I don't want to break her heart. She says she wants either Tsukune or myself as hers but with Moka being his and me...still figuring out things, I don't want to hurt her. Mizore...I want you to be happy, but I don't know If I'm the one who can do that.

Ruby...

She may have tried to kill me and my friends, but I see the curious and courageous soul that lies within the Witch. Ruby once adored the human race, she wanted to learn more and soon understand them on a personal level. Then her parents were taken away...and her mind had been twisted by a Witch with a hatred for the humans. Ruby, I may still know little to nothing about you, but I soon hope I can be a friend you can rely on whenever you just need someone to listen to your troubles.

Gin...

I didn't have much to think about that guy, but I saw his true colors the day we stood up to Kuyo. I know that he cares deeply about his club, even if he shows it in the perviest of ways. Hope you're adjusting to this as well as I can imagine, buddy.

...Kurumu...

Where could I even begin? My confidant...my music session buddy...and my best friend in the whole world. I could remember every little thing about her, and I still couldn't describe how amazing she is. A day hasn't gone by since I left where I don't think about her, her smile, her cute laugh, the way her nose scrunches up whenever she thinks hard about something, her...ethereal violet-colored eyes, her light blue silky hair, and how we were practically inseparable. Kuru...I miss you most of all... Haha...I really am in love, aren't I?

"Focus, Elijah..." I say to myself, letting my feelings for my friends be the fire in my heart. I can do this...I can do this...I can do this...

"I can feel you're heart, Young Everett," Fuhai tries to speak with concern, but there's just a slight twinge of condescension in the back of his throat. "That concern of yours is holding you back from what we're trying to accomplish, focus."

"..." I do my best not to retort as...something else plays in my head. I see my friends...but it's not a memory. What is this?

"...Because I don't want you to die!"

Moka? Why is Tsukune dying? What's happening? She's...biting into his neck.

"Hahaha...hahahaha...ahahahahaha! AHAHAHAHAHA!"

Tsukune...what the hell are you doing? He's...gonna kill that guy.

"It...it can't be... Please tell me that isn't...Tsukune."

Kuru... Look away, don't look!

"TSUKUNE!"

...No, she's gonna kill him! What are you doing, Moka?! She's not gonna stop, no...no! NO!

"NO!"

I'm blinded by the midday sun as my eyes shoot open. My heart pounds in my chest as I try to catch my breath. What the fuck did I just see?!

"What's wrong now, Elijah?" Fuhai asked in slight annoyance.

"..." That's it, no more waiting around. To hell with my destiny, I can make do with what I've learned already. I don't know what I saw, but I can't sit here while that's potentially happening to my friends! "...I have to go back."

I don't even waste a second getting back on my feet. Unfortunately, Fuhai's small stature leaps up and grabs the back of my shirt collar, "And where do you think you're going?" I pull away from his grip. Visibly annoyed by this, Fuhai switches from his elder form to his younger true self in a matter of seconds.

"I can't stay here anymore, Master Fuhai. My friends could be in serious danger!"

My testament brings out an annoyed sigh from my mentor. "Would you listen to yourself! Your 'friends' are fine, you-"

"NO, THEY'RE NOT!," I boomed. "I saw them! I could feel the damp air, I could hear their voices, I could...smell blood," I rest my palm on my forehead, forcing myself to try and make sense of what I saw. "...It was like I was there."

"..." My words seem to catch Fuhai off guard, his expression relaxing ever so slightly. "...Are you saying that you actually felt their presence?"

"Yes! They're scared and I've been gone long enough, it's time I take this matter into my own hands."

Fuhai crosses his arms, a stern frown takes over his face. "You're saying...you foresaw it? So, you managed to tap into just a sliver of Merlin's true abilities. But I wouldn't be so keen on throwing everything away for a simple hunch."

"He did the same thing!" I argue. "Merlin had no idea who would be blessed with his power, I was, unfortunately, the one who was gifted it. You've already done more than enough for me, I can figure out the rest on my own," I turn away from him, ready to leave the courtyard, this mansion, and this country... "My friends need me and you're not stopping me."

I can feel his anger rising as I walk away but I don't care. "I should've seen this coming, allowing you to keep contact with those 'friends' of yours was a hindrance. Here I thought not letting them deliver would do you some good."

"..." I stopped in my tracks at his words. He...what? I turn my head back at him. "...What did you just say?"

"Those 'letters' you would hand over to Fang Fang, I requested that he'd give them straight to me," Fuhai takes a few slow steps towards me, his serious look pierces my soul like a blade, twisting my heart. "Those friends of yours would've been a hindrance if they were to contact you, this responsibility is yours to bear and yours alone. You'll outlive them, especially that human."

"..." All this time...and my friends never even knew if I was okay?! My blood begins to burn in my veins as my fingernails dig into my palm. "You never sent any of my letters?" My words reached him through my seething mouth.

"Of course not," He responds in a flat tone as if it was obvious to him. "Nothing must get in the way of your destiny. I was doing you a favor."

"..."

All this time...I thought they were angry at me. I kept telling myself that they were just busy, that they were focusing on school and the club rather than worrying about me. But...all this time...

A familiar and overwhelming sense of energy surges through my body, along with a pure feeling of absolute power. When I turn the rest of my body towards Fuhai, I see Fuhai's slightly shocked expression...along with a smirk.

"Finally, after all this time... You're finally here with us, Merlin. It's good to see you, old frie-"

SMASH!

I moved faster than I could think...but it wasn't entirely me doing the work. Before I could understand what was happening, I appeared behind Fuhai and delivered a swift kick into his back, sending him into a nearby wall.

"Augh...what the hell do you think you are-"

"Do not speak, Fuhai."

...What the hell? I just spoke...but that wasn't me.

Fuhai took note of this too, he rose to his feet, dusted himself off, and looked at me with a shocked and baffled expression. "...Merlin?"

My arms crossed. "What do you think you are doing?"

"I'm doing what's right. This boy doesn't understand, he's foolishly attempting to abandon-"

"You do not get to make that choice for him!" My voice boomed, well, I should say...Merlin's. "His destiny is not yours to control, Fuhai, it is his. Tell me, does he even know what he truly has to face one day?"

What? What is he talking about? Is this about...?

"Alucard..." Fuhai finished my thought. "It's too much for him to handle right now. It wasn't my place to-"

"Oh? And it's your place to keep him here when his duty is needed somewhere else? Tell me, old friend... Would Akasha do the same as you?"

Akasha? That's...the pink-haired woman I saw in Fuhai's memories.

"..." Fuhai visibly flinched at the mention of Akasha's name, he took a second to compose himself before he responded. "...Of course, she wouldn't. I'd imagine that she'd treat this boy as if he were her own kin..."

She would? Does that mean that she's...?

"But I'm only doing this to keep the boy safe."

"Ah," I feel myself smirking as my right hand rests on my hip "So, this is what it's about. Even after two hundred years...you still miss me, old friend."

"That's..." Fuhai clamps his mouth shut, letting out a huff of air through his nostrils before his head hangs lowly. "Don't you start with that, you old fool."

I feel myself chuckle. "Tell me, does this boy not suit your expectations? That's because you expect him to be just like me, to act out his responsibility like I would. But there is only one me, after all. Heeheehee."

Fuhai sighed at the light-hearted chuckle that came out of my mouth. "It's not that easy. You should know of all people the burden this responsibility carries. It was there the moment he was born. What do you expect me to do?"

"...Let him go."

"What?!"

"I can feel the boy's thoughts, Elijah wants nothing more than to rush back to the ones he loves and protect them. The boy is right, they are in grave danger, especially that human boy. I fear that things are already set in motion..."

Fuhai's eyes widen at shock. "What are you saying? Please, tell me what you foresee. We must be prepared if he were to awaken. I can't guarantee his safety. He's...too emotionally charged. Elijah is not in the proper state to make rational decisions."

I feel myself chuckle. "Yes, it reminds me of a certain someone who was always headstrong. You never thought twice whenever you needed to fight alongside Akasha, Tenmei, and myself."

The corners of my mentor's mouth form a smirk. "I guess we're a pair of old fools, aren't we?"

"Haha... I suppose we are. But you know I'm far gone from this world, I am just a part of the Merlin you once knew."

Fuhai sighed. "Yes, I'm aware," he thinks for a moment, eventually looking at me like he's made his decision. As he does, I feel the energy within me subside...and Merlins' presence is no longer here. "Very well, he can leave."

I feel a weight lifted from my shoulders. "Thank you, I know what I'm doing might be stupid, but I know that it's the right thing to do."

My mentor laughs, taking a step over to me and placing his hand on my shoulder. "I still think you're being a foolish child, but if Merlin trusts your judgment, then so do I. Just remember, our doors are always open to you, Elijah Everett."

I nod. "Thank you, sir," I rush to the courtyard sliding door, but not before I turn back to Fuhai with a gratified smile on my face. "I promise, I won't let you down!"

You are a prisoner.

Of what they wanted you to be.

Now you're a minister.

Of a brand new reality.

Don't you want to get away?!

Shut down all the voices, all the white noises!

Drowning in deeper waves.

I gotta get away!

They think they own you but they don't know!

You've broken free, better on your own!

You're on top of the world, at the top of your lungs!

Come on, and shout your freedom!

Victory is what has come alive inside.

When they've been gone.

Shout it out to the world at the top of your lungs!

Come on, and shout your freedom!

Present day...in Yokai Academy's nurse's office...

"...And, well, you know the rest. My mom had me teleported here after a thorough talk, but she eventually caved. I ran here as fast as I could...that's when I saw..." I look over to my friend who's been bandaged up, he rests in bed as I am explaining...everything to the girls. Minus Moka, she hasn't shown up ever since we brought Tsukune here. "...A Ghoul," I muttered under my breath.

They did their best to try to explain Tsukune's condition. Despite my doubt, he looks okay. Although...I still can't wrap my head around it. The Headmaster said he'd explain what he did to him once he woke up, but that was yesterday! We've been waiting in here ever since. He also said that he was expecting my return, I'd expect this because I know he's one of the Dark Lords. I just hope my friend is gonna be okay.

"...I can't believe it," Yukari said, looking at me with astonishment. "You're the Blessed Child..."

Everyone took the news of why I had to leave fairly well, despite a few being upset that I had to be dragged away. Yukari was the most excited. She, like Ruby, had heard of the Blessed Child but only believed it to be only a myth.

"I knew there was something special about you," Ruby remarked. "Although, I didn't imagine something on this scale."

"Well, it still doesn't change the way I see you," Mizore added. "You're still the same Elijah."

"...Kuru, you okay?" She hasn't said a word since I told them that I tried sending them letters, but I noticed her face winced when I said that Fuhai never allowed them to be sent here.

"I...I just don't know what to say," She said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I...we waited so long for you to come back and now..."

"...Kuru, I'm so-" The Succubus cuts me off, wrapping her arms around my neck and burying her head in the crook of my neck. I return her gesture firmly, silently telling her that I'm here now, but I fear that nothing can ever show her how sorry I am for worrying her.

"Don't you ever leave us like that again, you hear me? If you do, I'll never forgive you."

"You really scared us, Elijah," Yukari joins our hug.

Then Mizore. "Your little Snow Bunny missed you most of all."

And finally, Ruby. "Things weren't really the same without you."

"..." I waited for this moment for so long. It's not exactly complete without Tsukune and Moka here, but we can repeat it when they're all here with us. Hell, even Gin can get in on a group hug.

"AAAHHH!"

Speak of the devil, looks like Tsukune's finally awake.

We all look at him as the young man sits up in bed, his breath is completely ragged and his eyes look like they're in a panic. He must've had a nasty dream, I can probably imagine what it is. Tsukune looks to the corner of the room where a beam of light appeared, I guess that the headmaster was here all along. His white hooded figure stands in the corner of the room as a dark shadow comes over him, his glowing yellow eyes are the only source of light in the room.

"You're awake, Mr. Aono." His voice was calm, with just a slight hint of smirkiness. "You seem rather troubled. Were you having a nightmare? What kind of nightmare? Was it about...the girl you love? Was she perhaps...killing you?"

Tsukuens eyes widen at his guess, the way he shuffled around in bed must mean that Headmaster was right on the money. "...W-Who are you?"

"Don't worry," Ruby spoke up as he approached the boy in bed, I followed. "He's an exorcist, he saved you."

"You're with friends now," Tsukune gasped as he recognized my voice, he turned his head to me and his mouth hung low. "Long time no see, brother."

"E-Elijah?! What...you're back?!," He winced in pain, noticing just how much his body and head had been wrapped in bandages. "Guys...what happened?" Ruby and I looked at each other and smiled before we returned our gaze back to our friend.

"It's a long story..."