Planet Cray, the home world of the Vanguards, is a vibrant realm divided into six distinct nations: United Sanctuary, Dragon Empire, Star Gate, Dark Zone, Magallanica, and Zoo.
These nations are situated close enough to facilitate contact, even Magallanica, which, despite being a landmass, is primarily submerged beneath the sea. While tensions can lead to war if one nation rebels against another, peace has prevailed. Each nation's clan leaders signed a treaty to ensure harmony after uniting against the Void, a formidable enemy that once threatened their world and abducted three of their most powerful clan leaders.
Through the combined strength of their Vanguards and their solidarity, the nations of Cray were able to overcome the Void, restoring peace to their homeland.
The story begins in the United Sanctuary, a realm where advanced civilizations of humans, beasts, and mythical creatures coexist. This land is home to the Royal Paladin, Gold Paladin, and Shadow Paladin clans.
Each clan is led by a unique figure: the Royal Paladin is led by Blaster Blade Exceed, the Shadow Paladin by Blaster Dark Diablo, and the Gold Paladin by Flash Fang Liberator, Garmore. Each leader possesses distinct abilities that empower their clans to combat the forces of evil.
Within the Royal Paladin Sanctuary, knights move through the hallways—some heading to the training fields, while others attend to their assigned tasks from superiors. At the training field, a large group of rookie knights is engaged in rigorous training, running around a track under the watchful eye of their instructor.
"Come on! Two more laps!" the Silent Knight, Gallatin, called out to the new recruits on the running track, keeping pace with them as their instructor.
"Yes!" the recruits exclaimed, pushing themselves harder.
"As always, such a strict teacher," remarked the Little Tactician, Marron, who was seated on a bench nearby, engrossed in his book. A few friends accompanied him.
"Woof!" Wingal and Barcgal barked in agreement, perched beside Marron.
"I know we haven't had any fighting since defeating Gyze a couple of months ago, but why are we the recruits' instructors?" Star Hope Trumpeter asked, floating around them.
"King Alfred asked us to take on this role, Trumpeter," Gancelot replied, brushing his trusty steed's mane. "It's for the future, in case the Void strikes again."
"Hmmm," Star Hope Trumpeter hummed, her attention shifting to the rookies on the ground, who looked utterly exhausted.
"Good! Take a ten-minute break, then we'll start with some basic sword skills!" Gallatin hollered, turning to walk back to his companions.
"Good work," Marron said, offering Gallatin a glass of refreshment.
"This year's new recruits are looking promising," Gallatin commented as he took a gulp.
"Man, Gallatin is such a slave driver," Star Hope Trumpeter said, deadpan, noticing that a few recruits had fainted, their eyes swirling.
"It's for their stamina training. Besides…" Gallatin turned, smiling, "some of them are showing promising results."
"But isn't your training program a bit too harsh on them?" Marron asked, closing his book.
"They'll have to adapt; my regime is the foundational training for all paladins," Gallatin replied, crossing his arms over his chest.
Suddenly, they heard the flutter of insect-like wings. Gallatin and the others looked up to see the Bringer of Good Luck, Epona, landing with his beetle companion.
"Epona?" Marron called, standing.
"Here!" Epona exclaimed, handing a letter to the Little Tactician before taking off again. "Goodbye!"
Marron and the others watched Epona fly away, then turned to the letter, which Marron began to open.
"What is it?" Gancelot asked.
"It seems Blade won't be joining us for instructing duties today; he's too busy with other matters," Marron said, shaking his head as he passed the letter to Star Hope Trumpeter.
"Again? This makes the fifth time this month," Star Hope Trumpeter remarked, reading the letter.
"What a henpecked leader," Gallatin chuckled, shaking his head with an amused smile.
Gancelot smiled as well, continuing to groom his steed.
"Well then! Let's just wait for Palamedes, who will fill his spot today," Marron said with a sigh. He clapped his hands three times, signaling the rookies to stand and line up. "Alright, everyone! Huddle up!"
In the kingdom, and in a mansion-like home, there exists a children's playroom filled with laughter and chaos. Blaster Blade Exceed, the leader of the Royal Paladin, renowned for his bravery and kindness, wields the legendary sword known as Blaster Blade. He has fought countless battles and emerged victorious, but now he faces the most challenging situation of his life.
"Papa! Read me this storybook!" "No! Read this one!" A little girl with blue hair and pointed ears and her younger brother with light brown hair shouted at him, each holding up their favorite picture books.
Blaster Blade Exceed, or Ahmes as his real name is, struggled to choose one child's request, fearing the other would burst into tears if he didn't select their choice. Flogal, who was nearby, watched sympathetically as the legendary hero panicked.
"Alice, Noah, how about we just pick one?" Ahmes suggested, attempting to smile through the pressure.
"NOOO!" the children screamed in unison, pulling at his hands.
Ahmes felt himself getting pulled to the floor by their enthusiasm.
"Papa! This one!" Alice exclaimed, presenting a book about a mermaid princess in Magallanica.
"No! This one!" Noah shouted, pushing Alice's book aside to present his own, which depicted the Royal Paladin's battle against the Kagero.
The two children glared at each other, sparks of determination flying between them.
"Come on, how about we read Alice's story today and Noah's tomorrow?" Ahmes suggested again, holding up Alice's book.
"Yay!" Alice cheered, her face lighting up.
"No!" Noah retorted, frustration evident on his face. He pushed Alice's book away and insisted, "I want this one!"
"No! This one!" Alice screamed, launching into a sibling squabble.
"Come on! Stop it, you two!" Ahmes tried to scold them, but they continued to yell at each other.
Suddenly, they began tugging at each other's hair, tears streaming down their faces.
"Stop it!" Ahmes exclaimed, desperately trying to pull them apart, while Flogal helped by tugging at Alice's shirt.
"Alice, Noah!" A gentle voice interrupted. Salome, the Leading Jewel Knight with brown hair and pointed ears, entered the room, carrying their baby brother, Lucas, who looked about nine months old. "That's enough for today."
"but Mama~! I want this story book!" the two kids cried out in unison.
Salome smiled as she held up a new picture book featuring a princess saved by a dragon. "How about we read this one instead? I just bought it!"
"Okay!" Alice and Noah agreed, their tempers forgotten as they snatched the book and bolted outside.
Salome sighed, smiling at the sudden shift in her children's moods. She then turned to Ahmes, who was putting away toys scattered on the floor.
"Ahmes?" she called, standing beside him. "Is something wrong?"
"I couldn't even choose one of them," Ahmes muttered, sadness etched on his face.
Hearing his words thanks to her enhanced elven hearing, Salome knelt beside him with a sympathetic smile. "Don't worry, Ahmes," she said, passing Lucas to him. "You're still learning." Leaning in, she caressed Lucas's head as the little boy playfully patted his father's chin. "Just like how I'm still learning to be Lucas's mother."
Ahmes sighed, gazing at his youngest son as Lucas babbled happily. A smile broke across his face as he kissed his son's forehead.
"You're right," Ahmes said gently, stroking Lucas's forehead before looking at Salome. "You're always right."
Salome smiled back at him, then stood up, cradling Lucas back in her arms. "Come on. Alice and Noah might throw another tantrum if we don't read to them soon," she said, leaning against him as they prepared to leave the room.
Ahmes nodded, feeling grateful as they headed for their other children's rooms. 'How lucky I am to have her as my wife', he thought, smiling at Salome. They entered the children's room to find Alice and Noah eagerly waiting for their story time.
Now, you might be wondering how all of this came to be. Well, don't worry; all shall be revealed in time—or rather, by time
Six years ago, at the United Sanctuary within the domain of the Royal Paladin's base.
In the majestic kingdom of the Royal Paladin, its brave leader, Blaster Blade Exceed, stood atop the palace, overlooking his home with his legendary sword held before him. It had been a year since he had come to Earth and saved his Vanguard through self-sacrifice, restoring peace to his world.
"Ahmes." A voice called from behind him. He turned to see Alfred, the king of the Royal Paladin and one of his oldest, most trusted friends, approaching.
"Alfred-dono," the knight said, kneeling before the mighty king. Alfred nodded, gesturing for him to rise. The king stood beside Ahmes, both of them gazing at the beautiful sunset in the distance.
"A long time has passed since the war with the Void," Alfred remarked, watching the sun sink low on the horizon. "Time upon Cray has been rather peaceful, hasn't it?"
"Indeed," Ahmes replied, squinting as memories of the hardships endured by the inhabitants of Cray flooded his mind. "But the chaos that once plagued our lands will return soon."
"That is true," Alfred acknowledged, turning to walk away. "The time of peace shall not last long. We must be prepared for war once more." He paused and looked back at his companion. "For now, however, everyone needs to rest." He smiled at his trusted knight before continuing on his way. "Even you, Ahmes."
"Rest…" Ahmes murmured, glancing at his sword, where the sharp edge gleamed in the fading light. "I do not think there is time for rest at all."
With determination, Blaster Blade Exceed turned and left the area, unaware that, in the distance, the main gates of the kingdom were slowly opening to reveal a large squadron of female knights entering the realm.
Within the grand castle of the Royal Paladins, Ahmes made his way to the mess hall, a place bustling with camaraderie and warmth. The aroma of freshly prepared meals wafted through the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and lively conversation. As he approached the door, it swung open effortlessly, welcoming him into the vibrant scene.
Inside, the hall was filled with his fellow knights, each engaged in spirited discussions about their day and sharing stories of valor and friendship. The long wooden tables were laden with an array of food: steaming bowls of stew, roasted meats, and baskets overflowing with bread and fruits. The atmosphere was rich with the energy of unity and fellowship.
"Hey! Ahmes!" A familiar voice rang out, breaking through the chatter. The Little Tactician, Marron, waved enthusiastically from a nearby table, his face alight with joy. Ahmes smiled and nodded, making his way over to join his comrades. He settled down beside Marron, who immediately pushed a basket full of fresh bread and assorted fruits in front of him.
"Seeing the setting sun again?" Gallatin, the Champion of Silence, asked casually, his hands deftly peeling an apple with a small knife, the blade glinting in the soft light.
"Yes," Ahmes replied, tearing off a piece of bread and savoring its warmth. "It's a beautiful sight from the palace balcony."
The knights began exchanging tales from their recent missions, recounting everything from minor skirmishes to their heroic battles against shadow thieves that had been spotted near the kingdom. Laughter erupted over a particularly exaggerated story, and Ahmes felt the weight of his responsibilities lift slightly, replaced by the comforting familiarity of his friends.
Suddenly, the door to the mess hall creaked open again, and the atmosphere shifted as several female knights entered, their presence causing a ripple of excitement among the male soldiers.
"Look, it's them!" someone whispered, and a chorus of murmurs filled the hall as all eyes turned to the newcomers. Leading the squadron was Ashlei, the Pure Heart Jewel Knight, radiating kindness and strength. Beside her walked Salome, the Leading Jewel Knight and Ahmes's wife, her graceful demeanor captivating those around her.
Ashlei greeted the knights with a warm wave, her smile infectious and her kindness evident. A few male knights couldn't help but gaze dreamily at her, their admiration palpable in the air.
Ahmes's gaze locked onto Salome as she made her way through the room. Their eyes met, and for a brief moment, the surrounding noise faded into the background. It was a quiet connection, a shared understanding that spoke volumes, before they both broke their gaze, returning to their respective groups. Ahmes turned back to his friends, who were still deep in conversation about the shadow thieves.
Meanwhile, the Jewel Knights settled at their table, and Ashlei initiated light-hearted banter. However, Salome seemed distracted, her thoughts elsewhere as she absentmindedly picked at her meal. Her eyes frequently darted over to Ahmes, watching him as he laughed with his comrades.
"Salome?" Ashlei called gently, noticing her friend's preoccupation. Salome blinked and snapped out of her trance, her cheeks flushing slightly.
"Yes?" she replied, caught off guard.
"Are you alright? You seem to keep glancing at Blaster Blade," Ashlei observed, a curious smile forming on her lips.
"I—I am!?" Salome stammered, her face growing warmer. She quickly composed herself, shaking her head. "I'm very sorry."
Ashlei chuckled softly, but sensing the moment's awkwardness, she shifted the conversation. "Anyway, since we've returned from our long mission, Lord Alfred has granted us a three-month holiday for our hard work! We're planning a shopping trip tomorrow. Would you like to join us?"
Excited cheers erupted from the other Jewel Knights, their faces lighting up at the prospect of a leisurely day. But Salome's expression turned thoughtful, and she offered a gentle smile. "I would love to, but I must decline the offer, Lady Ashlei. My body is feeling a tad weary from all the traveling, and I would prefer to rest for the day."
Ashlei nodded, understanding the toll that their missions could take. "Alright then, perhaps another time," she said, a touch of disappointment in her voice.
Salome stood, carrying her empty plate, and bowed slightly to her leader and comrades. "Well then, I'll excuse myself. Have a good day, Lady Ashlei, and everyone."
As she walked away, Ashlei and the rest of the Jewel Knights watched her leave, their expressions a mix of concern and sympathy.
"There's no helping it then," Ashlei said thoughtfully. "We'll invite Salome another time."
The rest of the squadron nodded in agreement, their bond growing stronger as they discussed their plans for the upcoming holiday, already filled with anticipation for what lay ahead.
As the day surrendered to night, the moon began its ascent, casting a gentle silver light over the kingdom. At a bridge in a local park, Blaster Blade Exceed stood vigilant, his sharp eyes scanning the tranquil surroundings for any signs of the rumored shadow thieves that had reportedly been lurking nearby. The air was crisp, the scent of night-blooming flowers mingling with the cool breeze.
"There's nothing out of the ordinary," Ahmes murmured to himself, leaning against the railing of the bridge. Below, the river glistened, its surface reflecting the moon like a shimmering mirror, dancing with the soft ripples caused by the gentle current. Fireflies emerged from their hiding spots, their tiny bodies flickering like stars against the night. Ahmes watched them with a sense of longing. "It must be nice to have such a free life," he mused, a firefly landing delicately on his finger before flitting away. He turned his gaze back to the river, entranced by the moonlight's glow.
"Blaster Blade-sama?" A familiar voice broke the night's serenity. Ahmes turned, surprised to see Salome standing at the far end of the bridge. She wore a simple blue t-shirt paired with black trousers, her presence illuminating the darkness around her.
"Salome-dono?" he replied, a hint of confusion mingling with his surprise.
With a gentle bow, Salome approached, joining him by the railing. "It's quite a surprise to see you here," Ahmes remarked, a small smile forming on his lips.
"I come to this place every night; it calms me to see the river at night," Salome confessed, her eyes reflecting the moonlit water.
Ahmes nodded, gazing back at the river. "It's hard to believe how much time has passed since the war. Have we really attained peace on Cray?" he pondered, his voice low and contemplative.
"Indeed," Salome replied, a soft breeze tousling her hair. The tranquil silence enveloped them, each lost in their thoughts as they gazed upon the serene river and the luminous moon above.
"I must take my leave then," Ahmes said, turning to Salome. "It was a pleasure spending this time with you, Salome-dono."
"No, I feel the same. It has been a great pleasure to spend time with you, Blaster Blade-sama," she replied, bowing respectfully.
"Please, just call me Ahmes. Honorifics have never been a custom for me," he insisted kindly.
"B-but I cannot! You are the King's trusted knight…" Salome's voice wavered, concern flickering in her eyes.
"It is fine," Ahmes assured her with a warm smile. "I prefer equality over superiority."
Salome pondered this, her expression shifting to one of understanding. "If that's the case, please call me Salome, Ahmes-san," she said, returning his smile.
They exchanged polite bows, ready to part ways, when sudden cries pierced the tranquil night air.
"Waaaahhhhh! Waaaahhhhh!" The sound of infants wailing sent both paladins into alertness.
"What is that sound?" Ahmes exclaimed, surprise lacing his tone as he scanned the area for the source.
Salome's enhanced elven hearing quickly pinpointed the origin. "Over there!" She pointed toward the river, where a straw basket floated downstream, bobbing precariously along with the current.
"Salome!" Ahmes shouted, his instincts kicking in as she sprinted toward the basket.
Without hesitation, Salome dashed down the riverbank, her heart pounding as she raced against the flow of the water. She could see the approaching heavy rapids and felt a wave of panic. "Oh no!" she gasped, pushing herself to reach the basket before it was swept away.
She arrived just in time, stopping the basket from being carried off by the raging stream. With trembling hands, she lifted the basket from the water, carefully setting it down on the grass. But as she began to emerge from the river, her foot slipped on a mossy stone.
"Kyaaa!" Salome cried out, losing her balance and tumbling back into the current, the strong water pulling her toward the churning depths.
"Salome!" Ahmes yelled, his heart racing. He discarded his sword and cape, diving into the cold water without a second thought. He swam with determination, fighting against the current to reach her.
With a swift motion, Ahmes grasped Salome's arm just before she was swept away, pulling her back to safety on the riverbank. They landed with a splash, both gasping for breath.
"Salome, are you alright?" Ahmes asked urgently, concern etched on his face as she coughed and sputtered, trying to regain her composure.
"Y-yes…" she managed between coughs, gently brushing wet strands of hair from her face. "I'm fine."
Ahmes sighed in relief, helping her to her feet. They both turned their attention to the straw basket, which continued to emit soft cries. Salome knelt beside it, her heart racing as she carefully opened the blanket covering whatever lay inside.
When the blanket fell away, both knights gasped in unison. Inside the basket were two infants—a baby boy with tousled brown hair and a baby girl with bright blue hair and delicate, pointed ears, both appearing to be no older than a year.
"How awful…" Salome murmured, her expression clouded with sadness as she reached into the basket to gently lift the baby girl into her arms. "They're so young. How could anyone… how could anyone just leave them like this?"
As Salome cradled the little girl, calming her with soft coos, Ahmes turned his attention to the baby boy, who had quieted but was still sniffling. The sight tugged at his heart, and he instinctively took his discarded cape, wrapping it around Salome's shoulders for warmth.
"Before we figure out why these children were abandoned," Ahmes said gently, lifting the boy into his arms, "let's get them somewhere warm and safe."
"Yes," Salome agreed, her eyes filled with determination as she continued to soothe the baby girl. "But where do we go?"
"My home is not far from here," Ahmes replied, glancing in the direction of his residence. "Let's hurry."
"Right," Salome nodded, her resolve strengthening as they both took off, carrying the precious lives entrusted to them into the night, their hearts filled with hope and purpose.
Half an hour later, Ahmes and Salome arrived at his home, a modest yet inviting structure nestled in the residential area of the kingdom. As he opened the front door, a sense of warmth washed over them, beckoning them inside.
"Please, come in," Ahmes said, gesturing for Salome and their two infant guests to enter. He quickly moved to prepare for their arrival. "I'll get some towels and spare clothes for you."
"Thank you," Salome replied, a hint of relief in her voice as she stepped into the cozy living room. She settled on the sofa, cradling the sleeping infants gently in her arms. As she began to dry them with Ahmes's cape, she felt a surge of tenderness; the little ones were now peacefully resting, lulled into slumber during their journey from the river.
A minute later, Ahmes returned, a set of fresh clothes and a towel in hand. "Here," he said, offering them to her. "These are some spare clothes of mine. They should fit you well enough." He knelt down to wrap the infants snugly in soft blankets, caressing their small heads as he admired how peacefully they slept.
"Thank you very much for your hospitality," Salome replied gratefully, blushing slightly as she noticed how large the clothes were on her frame. The shirt draped down to her knees, the sleeves loose around her arms, making her feel both comfortable and slightly awkward.
"It suits you," Ahmes said with a reassuring smile. He watched as Salome cradled the baby girl in her arms, her heart aching at the thought of the abandonment the infants had faced.
"Why would anyone abandon such precious lives?" Salome murmured sadly, brushing her fingers over the girl's soft hair. "They can't just leave them behind like that."
Ahmes looked at her, admiring the nurturing instinct that shone in her eyes. He decided to remove his helmet, revealing his short blue hair, a gesture of intimacy and trust. "It's past midnight. We should get some rest," he suggested gently, patting the sleeping baby boy nestled in his arms.
"Yes," Salome agreed, her voice soft as she continued to soothe the baby girl, who had stirred slightly.
"I'll take the couch, and you can have my bed," Ahmes said, moving to a nearby closet to fetch a spare pillow and blanket.
"What? No! I should take the couch while you take your own bed!" Salome protested, her cheeks flushing as she felt a sudden rush of indignation. But her argument faltered when the baby girl in her arms whimpered softly, reminding her of their vulnerable state.
Ahmes shook his head, determined. "I won't allow a lady to sleep on the couch in my home. You're better suited to care for the children if they wake in the night." He glanced at the infants, his heart swelling with protectiveness. "They seem to be more comfortable with you."
Salome opened her mouth to protest again but found herself at a loss for words, her resolve softening.
"They need rest, and so do you," Ahmes insisted, gently lifting both infants into his arms. With a warm, reassuring smile, he beckoned her. "Come."
Hesitant yet trusting, Salome followed him to his bedroom. The warmth of the room was inviting, and as Ahmes set the babies down carefully in the center of the bed, he took a moment to ensure they were comfortable. He then placed a light blanket over them, marveling at their serene faces.
"Sleep well, little ones," he whispered, glancing at Salome. She was watching them with a gentle expression, her heart clearly touched.
"Thank you, Ahmes-san," she said quietly, feeling a sense of gratitude and warmth as she settled onto the bed beside the infants.
"Get some rest; I'll be on the couch if you need me," Ahmes assured her, stepping back towards the door.
"Wait," Salome called softly, her eyes catching his. "You should stay here with us. It's your bed."
Ahmes paused, touched by her kindness. "I'll be just outside. You need to feel secure. They will need you if they wake up," he insisted, his voice firm yet gentle.
With a soft sigh, Salome nodded, knowing he was right. "Thank you for everything."
As he stepped out, Ahmes glanced back one last time, his heart warmed by the sight of her, the two infants nestled comfortably beside her. The door clicked softly behind him, leaving Salome in a cozy sanctuary filled with hope for the future.
The morning light streamed softly through the curtains, casting a gentle glow across the room. Salome stirred awake, the warm sun wrapping around her like a comforting blanket. As she blinked away the remnants of sleep, her gaze fell upon the two infants nestled beside her. They were wide-eyed and curious, their little faces brightening at the sight of her.
"Good morning, you two," Salome said with a tender smile, her heart swelling with affection. She carefully lifted them into her lap, cradling them against her chest. The babies cooed softly, their tiny hands reaching out as if to explore their surroundings.
In that moment, the world outside faded away; it was just her and the infants, a precious little family forged from unexpected circumstances. She couldn't help but marvel at their innocence and the bond that had formed overnight.
Just then, a light knock broke the tranquility of the morning. Salome turned to see Ahmes entering the room, his expression a mix of warmth and slight awkwardness. He carried a neatly folded stack of her cleaned and dried clothes, the fabric freshly pressed and smelling faintly of lavender.
"I've cleaned and dried them for you," he said, his voice steady yet tinged with an air of bashfulness as he set the clothes down on a nearby table. The sight of her belongings brought a wave of gratitude washing over her.
"Thank you, Ahmes-san," she replied, shifting herself on the bed and preparing to rise. The familiarity of his kindness brought a smile to her face.
As Salome reached for her clothes, she noticed that Ahmes was looking away, his hand raised to cover his eyes. A curious frown creased her brow.
"What is wrong?" she asked, genuinely puzzled by his demeanor.
"I'm sorry if my clothes were too loose for you," he replied, still not meeting her gaze. His voice carried a hint of embarrassment.
Confusion deepened as Salome looked down, only then realizing that her borrowed shorts lay crumpled on the floor near the bed. The realization struck her like a bolt of lightning: she was left in just Ahmes's oversized shirt, which hung down to her thighs, offering little protection against her sudden sense of vulnerability.
Her cheeks flamed a deep crimson as she quickly wrapped her arms around herself. "Oh!" she exclaimed, her heart racing. "I—I'll be right back!" Without another word, she hurriedly excused herself and dashed into the bathroom, her face burning with embarrassment.
Inside the bathroom, she leaned against the cool door, taking a moment to collect herself. The laughter of the two infants, still cooing at each other, floated through the walls, grounding her amidst the flurry of her emotions. Salome chuckled softly at the ridiculousness of the situation. She had faced countless battles, but nothing had prepared her for this—an unexpectedly awkward moment in a safe, warm home.
After a few moments, she took a deep breath, straightened her shoulders, and resolved to face the day with renewed determination.
Meanwhile, in the other room, Ahmes stood with a bemused smile, glancing at the two infants who continued to babble to one another, blissfully unaware of the adult misunderstandings unfolding around them. He felt a warmth in his chest at the sight of them, a reminder of the hope and innocence they brought into his life.
As he continues to tend to the little ones, Salome came entering into the scene while fully dressed.
"come now…" Ahmes steadily tried to hold one child but the other begins to make a fuss and vice versa.
"Please let me help." Salome said as she went to the knight and gently takes the children into her arms. "It is best if we have one child to be seated while we are tending to one."
"I see." Ahmes nodded as he watches how Salome tend to the two infants.
After getting the children to settle down a bit, Blade and Salome sits by the dining table and began to eat breakfast which was already prepared by the white knight.
Ahmes ate his meal in silence before he sees that Salome had not begun eating since she was feeding the two children.
"let me help you" Ahmes said as he finishes his meal before he gets off his seat and then went to the baby boy who was picked up into his arms. the white knight taking a glass filled with warm milk that he had prepared beforehand and then begins to try feed it to the child. "open wide."
Ahmes gently leans the tip of the glass near the baby boy's lips, but it failed miserably as the child whined while moving his head away.
"why won't you drink?" Ahmes asked the child as he sets down the glass to the table and got confused.
"here, let me" Salome said as she gives Ahmes the baby girl who had finished being fed. The elven woman takes the baby boy into her arms and patted his back gently a few times. she then held the glass of milk and then gently feeds it to the child who begins to drink it vigorously. "the little ones like to be patted on the back when they feed" she explains to the white knight while feeding the child his milk that he finishes. She place the empty glass down to the table and then leans the child to her shoulder and then begins patting his back gently before getting a burp in reply. "there we go."
'she's good' he thought in seeing how the children would do what she asks.
"what are we going to do with them?" Salome asks while patting and then caressing the baby boy in her arms. The child slowly falling asleep because of being drowsy after drinking milk.
"We…" Ahmes spoke before he looks down and then leans down to pick up the baby girl who has been cooing to Salome or him for attention. He gently carried the child while patting her back. "we could go to an orphanage near my home" he looks at Salome. "They would be able to find a family who will take them in"
"I see.." Salome frowns a bit to hear the knight's suggestion as this was noticed by Ahmes.
"it is for the best, Salome. We can't afford to take care of them since our duties to the kingdom comes first" Ahmes spoke and Salome nodded with a bit of a sad face as she looks to the little boy in her arms
"yes, it is for the best" Salome said as she traced her finger to the child's little nose while the little boy sleeps in her arms.
An hour later, Ahmes and Salome stepped out of the knight's home, each carrying a child. Salome cradled the baby girl in her arms, while Ahmes held the baby boy securely against him. As they made their way through the bustling city streets, the sun shone brightly, illuminating the path that led to the church, which also served as an orphanage.
As they walked, Salome gazed down at the baby girl, who was cooing contentedly and playfully tugging at the elven knight's long hair. A warm smile spread across Salome's face as she gently caressed the child's head. The little girl responded with a giggle, her delight evident as her eyes sparkled with joy.
Ahmes glanced at Salome, noticing the deep affection she had for the infant. It was heartwarming to see her so engaged with the child. He looked down at the baby boy nestled in his arms, who had drifted off to sleep, his tiny features relaxed and peaceful. 'It seems they are not twins in the usual sense,' Ahmes mused, noting the stark contrast in their energy levels. One child was lively and animated, while the other was serene and still.
After a short walk, the two knights arrived at the orphanage's front door. The sounds of laughter and playful shouts echoed from the nearby yard, where a group of children were playing under the watchful eye of a nun.
"W-Welcome to our church, Blaster Blade-sama and Salome-sama," one of the nuns greeted them, her expression a mixture of surprise and warmth. She hesitated for a moment before asking, "May I ask why you have come to our church?"
Ahmes took a deep breath, preparing to share their unusual story. "Yes, the thing is…" He recounted how they had found the children abandoned in a straw basket, floating down the river. His voice was steady, but the weight of their discovery hung heavily in the air.
"I see…" The nun's expression shifted to one of sadness as she gazed at the infants in their arms. She bowed her head respectfully. "We will gladly take them in."
"Thank you very much," Ahmes replied, relief flooding through him. He glanced at Salome, who nodded in understanding, her gaze lingering on the baby girl, who had fallen asleep during their journey.
With care, the knights passed the children to the nuns, who cradled them gently. "We shall ensure that they find a great family to be with," the nun assured them, bowing once again.
"Please do," Ahmes said, feeling a sense of closure wash over him as he turned to leave. However, he noticed that Salome had paused, her eyes fixed on the two sleeping infants for a moment longer. He could sense her hesitation as they began to walk away.
As they stepped onto the street, Salome's slower pace caught Ahmes's attention. He could feel the conflict brewing within her, and it tugged at his heart. Just then, a sudden wail pierced the air.
"Waaaahhhhh! Waaaahhhhh!" The sound of crying echoed back from the orphanage, drawing both knights to a halt. They turned to see the nuns struggling to calm the now-distressed infants, who were flailing their tiny arms and wailing inconsolably.
Salome's heart sank at the sight. "Mwama~!" both children cried out, reaching their little hands toward her. The sight of them in distress sent tears welling up in her eyes.
"I can't…" Salome whispered, her voice trembling as she looked at Ahmes, who was equally taken aback by the sudden turn of events. "I can't!"
Without another moment's hesitation, Salome bolted back toward the orphanage, reclaiming the children from the nuns' arms. "Salome!?" Ahmes exclaimed in surprise, racing after her. "What are you doing?!"
"I cannot do it! I just can't!" Salome cried, holding the infants close to her chest, her tears falling freely. "I can't leave them!"
Ahmes's eyes widened as he watched her, recognizing the fierce maternal instinct igniting within her. The way she cradled the children spoke volumes; she was determined to protect them at all costs. "I know I have only known them for a day, but I just can't leave them!" she cried out, her voice laced with desperation. "They're just too precious!"
"Salome…" Ahmes started, glancing at the nuns, who looked just as surprised as he felt. He turned back to her, watching as she gently tried to soothe the crying children in her arms. A sigh escaped him as a thought flickered to life in his mind.
"Very well then," he said, resolutely stepping forward to address the nuns.
That's a wrap!
Bye bye!