A/N: For those who asked. Ao3 no longer has the lemons but still has the story. I won't write anymore for now, but if you want to see the old ones you can go on QQ. However! You need an account to see the NSFW stuff on QQ (hence why I left stuff on there).
In other news, I'm on Volume 6 of Mobuseka. It's kinda a neat experience to read something and wonder where I can cross-over with The Eminence in Shadow.
Also, I think I dislike Serge as much as I like Scaramouche from Genshin Impact. Like, they are such little bitches. Leila also sucks, but she at least has a somewhat believable reason for being the way she is. Don't misunderstand though, just because I can follow her logic doesn't mean I like where it went.
She totally is self-entitled, like I haven't finished the book but I think when I skimmed it and 7 I saw Emile turn Yandere, and honestly—I get it. Leila was cheating on him and trying to gaslight him, and I'm a fourth of the way done with the 6th book, I think that happens 3/4ths in 7. Emile didn't deserve that… I think, still haven't finished the book. At the very least Leila isn't good in any way for doing that.
Leon Fou [now Rapha] Barfort: Renowned adventurer and current crown prince. / previously: Hiro (pre:isekai)—Lea of Bart's Fort (The true founder of Holfort and lover to the Saintess Ann and Mary)—JOU_MOU_ (someone who used to work in Luxion's facility.)
Angelica Rapha Redgrave: Daughter of Duke Redgrave and ex-fiancé to Julius/ Previously: Ann of Bart's Fort (aka Saintess Ann and lover of Lea of Bart's fort). / Also goes by Angie to close friends and loved ones.
Olivia: Commoner from the Kagenou Barony. / previously: Mary lover and companion to Ann and Lea. When they had returned from their adventures in ancient Midgar, all three had been attacked by the founding heirs as they all wanted Ann. To save Lea and Ann from such a fate, she teleported them away, and swapped bodies with Ann. / Is also known as Livia by her close friends and loved ones.
Cid Kagenou: fiancé to several famous elves but just a regular mob you'd find anywhere / previously: Minoru Kagenou boy from Earth that would be transported to the ancient times of the current before dying at the hands of his friends due to becoming demonically possessed out of grief. / Also dons the secret identity of "Lord Shadow." Leader and founder of The Shadow Garden. / Mundane Mann, a pathetic looking sword wielder that disappeared many years ago and has returned for the Bushin festival. / Kageno of Mitsugoshi, after an argument with his parents, Cid decides to go by Kageno for a while.
Alice [Kagenou: Cid's personal elf servant, lover, and childhood friend / previously: Beatrice (this is non canon, but all of Shadow Garden had identities before joining so I made a name up for her.) / Dons the secret identity of "Alpha" or "Lady Shade." Co-leader and second founder of The Shadow Garden, first of the Seven Shades. The name "Alpha" is only used by those in Shadow Garden.
Other Shadow Garden Members: All of the seven shades have secret identities. They see their Shadow Garden names as their true names and will use that in their own thoughts. But to everyone not in Shadow Garden that sees them as their secret identities will use those names.
Beta: Natsume Kafka, renowned writer.
Gamma: Luna of Mitsugoshi, owner of said store and many others, richest Woman in the world. Xianyun, Swordmaster of the fareastern kingdoms.
Delta: Sara, certified good girl.
Epsilon: Shiron, amazing musician known internationally.
Zeta: Zetan. Previously known as Lilim, named after the therianthrope hero, Lili.
Eta: Goes by Eta Lloyd Wright, renowned Architect.
Charlie: Known previously as Carla Fou Wayne.
Yankee: Known previously as Stephanie Fou Offrey
Foxtrot: Sherry's mother. [a/n: did you know the actually did give her a name? I just saw it on the wiki. It's Lukreia.]
Aurora: Called Violet by Cid, and now camps out in his soul/brain. Known as the Witch of Calamity, and the Demon Diabolos.
Disclaimer: I don't own Trapped in a Dating Sim: The World of Otome Games is Tough for Mobs nor The Eminence in Shadow. The only Beta reader here is the elf.
-P2W-
"Angelica…" muttered Duke Redgrave. "Calm down."
"CALM DOWN!?" Angelica demanded, "THE LOVE OF MY LIFE WAS JUST ARRESTED FOR TREASON AND YOU DEMAND THAT I CALM DOWN!?"
Angelica's mother, who had returned from her summer home, smiled. Veronica Rapha Redgrave is a woman that much resembled her daughter with the major difference being age barely shown by a few wrinkles and gray hairs, well that and her shared voluptuous figure sagging a bit more… although Vince would hardly complain.
"He's the love of your life?" asked Veronica, somehow able to ignore Angelica's rage despite the flames from her daughter turning blue out of sheer will.
Thanks to her mother's question Angelica's rage quells slightly, the flames on her hand turning red and dying down, "Y-yes…? I mean, of course he is! Mou! Mother~! That's not important right now!"
"Sounds important to me~" teased Vernoica as she put a fan to her lips, "Honestly, are you sure you're my daughter? You know this man belongs to you, yet you have no proof of it."
"I…I have the ring and tiara he gave me, see…" said Angelica demurely, showing off the two pieces of jewelry like a child showing off something they found to their parents. "They're pretty…"
"They are." Agreed Veronica before using the patented Redgrave glare, "But you know that's not what I was talking about. Where are my grandchildren? I know my daughter, and I know you've already shared a bed with him. Where are my grandchildren?"
Angelica finds her flames peter out, looking to and fro from the room in search of help. Gilbert avoids her gaze as he is still unmarried and has been hounded by his mother and father enough on the topic.
Vince, who had been leaning back in an attempt to not be hit by the flames from his daughter's hands, clears his throat and attempts to restart the conversation. "Angie. I'm sorry but over time my pull in the political side of things has waned. There's not much that I can do here. Even if I could release him, he has been deemed too much of a danger and won't receive his lost item back."
"Are you trying to say that he's useless with out it? Father, please!" begged Angie "Leon… Leon has done so much for all of us!"
"You speak of his secret war known only to him and his faction, yes? I'm afraid that such things being secret are done so for a reason. Not to mention that there has been talk of him siding with the principality as well," Vince shook his head, "I'm sorry Angie-"
"You… you always told me as a child that you were on my side… that I could rely on you no matter what…" said Angelica as her hands trembled in rage. The flames in Angelica's hands reignite themselves, this time turning into a brilliant white as she slams her hands down on her father's desk, burning it to ashes within a fraction of a second. "BUT WHENEVER I NEED YOU THE MOST YOU'RE NEVER THERE! I HATE YOU FATHER!"
"Angie!" scolded Veronica.
"Don't call me that!" shouted Angelica with tears in her eyes as she began to storm out of the room, "I'll save my husband on my own! And forget meeting any of your grandchildren!"
Vince waits for Angie to be out of earshot before reaching into the ashes of his former desk, pulls out the bottle of whisky he kept in there, and begins to take a few swigs straight from the bottle.
"Are you okay dear?" asked Veronica.
"No." replied Vince with a tear going down his face.
"A shame that we can't tell her what's really going on," said Glen who probably would have also cried if his little sister said she hated him, "But I suppose she did just demonstrate why we can't."
"Right…" said Vince, "Not to mention those who've made contact with Leon in the dungeon. Apparently, they've become frustrated at not being able to operate the Partner and have begun to call for Leon's execution in hopes that it would allow someone else to become the master of the ship."
"I still can't believe that your current plan is simply to let him rot in the dungeon and watch who tries to make a deal with him." Said Veronica.
"If we let him stay in the normal jail chances are he'd be assassinated or make things worse somehow. For now, we need to lie in wait for the best opportunity to catch all of the traitors." Said Gilbert. "Plus, if he stays in the jail then all of the machinations of Mitsugoshi being done on his behalf will be seen as unrelated to him."
"I suppose." Said Veronica with a shake of her head, before taking the bottle from her husband, "Honestly, I think we should've told her the truth. She's become much more independent these last few months."
"Thanks to Leon," pointed out Vince, "Without him she'll likely be stuck waiting. I'll send someone to watch over her."
"Oh, we should send Cordelia, hopefully a familiar face will help things from getting too bad." Said Veronica.
"Too bad?" questioned Gilbert, "How could things possibly get worse?"
-P2W/Hertrude-
Perhaps it goes without saying, but Leon's arrest was something orchestrated by not only Marquess Frampton, but Princess Hertrude as well. Knowing Leon to be too big of a threat they had teamed up to create most of the accusations that had him currently jailed. During this, Hertrude had paid a secret visit to the kingdom of Holfort, specifically to her co-conspirator's territory for a time, although they would move in secret to the capital.
Accompanied by a few men with black robes and papers over their faces, Hertrude and Marquess Frampton paid a visit to the palace's vault, home to a number of treasures and Lost Items. Many ancient tools whose functions remained unknown were also on display. Hertrude froze when she spotted a certain item.
I found it, she thought. I heard one was here in the kingdom's vault, but to think they've turned it into a mere decoration. This marquess really is a buffoon.
"Marquess, might I convince you to hand this piece over to us?" asked Hertrude.
He stroked his beard. "This? It's quite a precious artifact. I'm afraid I would have to consult the other nobles before making such a decision."
The right arm of what appeared to be the size of an armor but with the physique of a monster sat in a glass case. It certainly did have historical value. However, the kingdom clearly didn't see any purpose for it, Marquess Frampton was only putting on airs to act like he had the upper hand, but he couldn't begin to guess why Hertrude desired the arm.
I can't believe they left something so dangerous lying around. Thought Hertrude, I know there was supposed to be something similar in Lindwurm, but at least there the church had it stored in a vault for study. If I hadn't been imprisoned on the Partner I would've requested that arm then as well. But Holfort truly is beyond salvation if they only use this for display. Even if we don't use it, it'd be safer in Fanoss' hands.
"What would you wish in exchange?" Hertrude asked, crossing her arms.
Frampton smiled, "Ho ho ho, it seems you've taken quite the liking to the piece. Won't you tell me what you would do with it?"
Hertrude glanced over the treasures in the room. Several pieces had been taken from Leon's ship, including her own flute. Next, she eyed Vandel's sword, something that Luxion had collected after said man teleported away. Given the sword was forged from a unique metal it was especially valuable, and seeing it lie in the vault uselessly vexed Hertrude greatly.
"You took our other treasures already. Can't it be compensation?" said Hertrude.
"We stole nothing from you. We won your flute and sword in honorable combat." Replied Frampton.
Strictly speaking, Leon had done the taking, and the kingdom had taken it from him after. Although, he likely would've offered up the items anyway.
Being a man to overthink and plan heavily, Marquess Frampton decides to stop his evasive responses and instead ask, "Your Highness, do you truly desire this artifact?"
"I do."
"For what purpose?"
"It's an ancient Armor fragment, yes? I have a historical interest. And it has an ornamental charm, I suppose."
"Indeed."
Hertrude had been nervous, afraid her insistence would make the marquess suspect her—but he dropped the subject, seemingly satisfied.
"Now, while we're at it, I would like to revisit the matter of renewing ties between our states," he said.
"The principality wishes this," said Hertrude, although her words were flat.
The marquess noticed but didn't particularly care, "To that end, I'd like to send Prince Julius to the principality, to act as a bridge between our countries."
"Prince Julius?" asked Hertrude, "Isn't he currently galivanting with that Viscount's daughter?"
"Embarrasing as it is to admit, yes. I wish Prince Julius possessed the same level of self-awareness as yourself, Your Highness." The marquess paused. "Allow me to get to the heart of my proposal. We're prepared to cede some of our territory to the principality. Although to do so, the kingdom will need some 'cleaning out' as it were."
For once, he had fully captured Hertrude's interest. "Tell me more."
"Your family was once a branch of Holfort royalty. We'd like to use this opportunity to forge a real alliance between our countries. I believe we can work together, don't you?"
He wanted cooperation—but for what?
"How absurd," Hertrude replied curtly. "You expect us to lay down our weapons for the sake of an insignificant sliver of land? What proof do I have that you intend to honor this offer?"
The marquess smiled. "Your Highness Hertrude, you seem to not know the circumstances of the kingdom. The process of transferring land is no problem."
"I find that hard to believe," said Hertrude, "Everyone knows how precious land is, that's why most people that can find any more are usually rewarded heavily."
"Yes, but consider this, the area where we conduct our wars is not under direct control of the kingdom."
Regional lords owned the floating islands that separated Holfort and Fanoss. Strictly speaking, those territories didn't belong to the royal family.
"Technically, yes. But isn't it under control of the Field family? How do you propose to cede the territory of your peer?" asked Hertrude.
"Their ability to resist the principality relies entirely on the kingdom's support," the marquess revealed, "don't tell me your nation's military couldn't handle weaklings left to their own devices."
Ignoring the possible dig into the fact that a fleet lost to a single ship full of children, Hertrude scoffed. "You joke. Our military is perfectly capable. But what merit is there for you in this betrayal?"
Marquess Frampton gave her a toothy grin, his eyes gleaming like that of a demon. "Well, Princess, those regional lords are, in truth, a hindrance."
"A hindrance hmm?" mused Hertrude. That's right, Marquess Frampton and Marquess Field support different political factions. The complexity of Holfort's domestic politics confounded Hertrude but she was willing to take advantage. "All right, I accept your deal. And since you propose Prince Julius marry into the principality, I'll take that as his engagement gift."
She pointed to the black, spiky Armor fragment.
Marquess Frampton nodded. "A splendid arrangement, if I do say so myself. Let me know when the principality is prepared. We'll clean out the kingdom, and once Fanoss has won the territory we promised, we'll intervene and call a truce. I think that's the best course of action."
All but tying her fingers behind her back, Hertrude pretended to agree. "Very well. I swear, as princess of the principality, that we will honor this agreement."
This fool is grinning as if he thinks he's sealed an incredible deal. You think I'm dancing in the palm of your hands, but the joke's on you. Hertrude suppressed the urge to smile, relieved for the first time since her defeat at the hands of Leon… and Stephanie. There was more reasons than Sherry being friends with Leon that made Hertrude have her stay back on the ship for the time being.
Glancing at the Magic Flute once more, Hertrude is reminded of her dear sister. Rauda, my little sister… I won't blame you if you resent me for my foolishness. I only hope that Sherry can be there for you in the event I can't.
Hertrude bit her lip before turning her attention to her next objective. "By the way, how are things going in regard to the issue with 'Crown Prince' Barfort? Have you retrieved his lost item?"
The marquess' smile faded then. "Yes… but we're still in the process of analyzing them. As for the brat, I hoped to have him executed by now, but he is the queen's and the public's favorite at present. We're running into a bit of trouble on that front."
Hertrude's smile only grew. Holfort had rendered their greatest weapon useless. "I see. I suppose it will be nothing but tranquility here in the kingdom from now on. Will I be calling you prime minister someday soon as well?"
The marquess grinned. "Oh, no, no. Me, prime minister? That's absurd."
Liar. That's what you wanted from the beginning. You went through a lot of trouble to force House Redgrave on the back foot. But thanks to all your efforts, I've won. I owe you my thanks, you ambitious fool.
"I don't suppose you can help me send this to the principality now, can you?" asked Hertrude.
The marquess nodded, "But of course. Children."
The marquess snapped his fingers, and like puppets coming to life the men that had accompanied them began to move, taking the relic into red and black magic circles.
As she watched them do so, Hertrude couldn't help but notice a few of the other relics, namely one piece that seemed to between a lantern and a globe.
"Don't touch that." Snapped the Marquess.
Hertrude, having been reaching for it without realizing, draws back her hands. "Apologies, it merely caught my curiosity. Adventurer's blood runs in my veins as well, you understand."
Not bothering to smile but remaining his false politeness, the marquess nodded, "Of course. But I hope you can understand that item has some… sentiment from my family. It represents the moment we gained our standing from the first king, Julian."
Hertrude nods, deciding to leave the subject be.
I hope Sherry won't mind my union with Prince Julius. She decided to consider, perhaps if I let him keep that tiny gremlin of a girl she'll know that it's purely political.
-Leon-
[I always knew you'd end up here one day, Master.]
"What? A person like me?" I asked.
[Precisely because you are a person like you.]
I flip Luxion the bird. Comically, the little bastard displays a hologram with two emoji's doing the same.
With a chuckle I go back to throwing a ball against the wall. This ball being Hikaru, the little baby AI that Luxion and Cleare gave birth to. Apparently, they needed me to do this to calibrate Hikaru's GPS or something.
(Whee!) cheered Hikaru, having a childlike voice that is not clearly male nor female. (Again, again!)
The way Hikaru cheers like this reminds me of the times I'd throw Finley and Colin around. I guess being thrown around is important to a child's development… I should visit home more, Finely and Colin don't have anyone around their age back there and probably feel lonely with all of us gone.
Suddenly I hear the sound of footsteps.
[Hikaru, come, it's time to hide.]
(Okay father…)
As the two AI's cloak themselves and hide in the corner of the room I see a familiar friendly face approach.
"Yo, Leon." Greeted Cid.
I nod and wave back, "Hey man, what brings you here."
"I came here to laugh at you." Said Cid.
I flipped him off and he returned the gesture. After a beat we both laughed it off and he pulled up a chair and tray. Taking out some cards he started to play bullshit with me.
With one catch. We spoke in Japanese.
See, I've always had suspicions that either Cid or his wives or reincarnates as well, but as it turns out, it was Lord Shadow. Not only that, but Lord Shadow had taught them what he knew through his 'Shadow Wisdom.' Natsume was taught stories, but her memory isn't perfect which is why most of the stories are a bit off in the names and some details. Luna was taught business, although some of her information is a bit difficult to implement in our current day and age. Eta was taught architecture and science, but she's always so sleepy so things are just done in bursts. Shiron was taught music, Sara art, and apparently Alice and Zetan were more of all-rounders.
Cid, however, was taught two things. One: Magic (so he could treat his possession) and two: language.
「 So, 」said Cid as he shuffled cards and began to deal. 「Production has been going pretty well. Cleare gets along well enough with the girls, but I'll admit I'd have preferred it if Luxion were there. 」
Even though I'm doing my best to live as Leon and not Hiro, I'll admit I missed speaking in the language. So being able to share it with a friend of mine is pretty nice. 「Sorry, but I kind of need him here in case anyone wants to try anything. Cleare's a bit too absent minded. He's still manning the production machines though. How many ships were under construction now? Like 6 right? 」
Cid nodded. 「Yup. It's impressive how quickly we got the frames done. I remember it usually takes about 4 months for most companies, so to have the first two months of work done in a week is pretty damn cool.」
「Right?」I boasted, 「How goes the armors?」
At this Cid frowns. 「Well… I mean we got a few limbs built, but only the human personnel have been able to get the things to move—er mind you that we're still in the testing phases. But I think it's a real issue that about 90% of my employees can't drive the things. I mean, like, that's at least 500 people that would be able to help. 」
Ah yeah, that does suck. To be down 500 people willing to help just based on race? 「Luxion, do you think you could ask Cleare-」
[「Already done. She said that it's because of the origin of therianthropes and elves.」]
「 Damn. 」Said Cid. 「 Got the wife ready to respond at a moment's notice, huh? 」
Luxion rolled his body as to signify he was rolling his eyes.
But the origin of therianthropes and elves huh…
Oh.
「Hey, Cid. Are you familiar with what a 'drive' is? 」I asked.
Cid thinks about it for a second but then shakes his head.
「Okay, so a drive is like the main component of an armor. There's a whole bunch of stuff that's put into it, but the main thing is usually float stone in the armors made by new humanity, but old humanity used… some element thingy that I can't pronounce. 」I clarified I then went on to discuss the truth of the origins of therianthropes and elves, as I figured Cid deserved to know, given how deep in he already is.
In short, Elves and therianthropes weren't something that naturally occurred. Rather, Cleare had created them while she worked for the cult in an attempt to advance old humanity during the war with new humanity. Living longer, the animal strength/features, etc. They were all things meant to help with the war effort.
Since they didn't have souls, and the researchers at the station were a bit lonely, Cleare decided that she'd have them cross breed by making her creations look like voluptuous females. The men got attached to their 'wives' and the resulting children so there was a bit of an infight resulting in the cult having to go underground and lie in wait for hundreds of years due to how many people they ended losing both in defectors and through battle.
Cid was intrigued of course, so he had a few questions. 「Wait… so if that's true how come there's so many of them? And how is this related to the armors? 」
「Well first off: Therianthropes can cross breed just fine no matter the race. In fact elf/therianthrope unions also work well enough. It's just with New Humans that the issue arises. Old humanity genes are really hard to pass down, and elf/therianthropes are essentially the last of the old humans, excluding people like me… and I guess Lord Shadow.」 I pointed out. 「But going back to your question about the armors, it goes to the 'drives' they use. You remember that one time I tried to show you how to use one? 」
I recall that during the summer before I took Livia, Angie, Deirdre and Cid to my territory I had tried to show Livia how to pilot an armor. Near the end of me training Livia, Cid showed up and asked for a turn. I figured why not and let him have a test drive.
Cid does his best to recall this as well, before shooting me a curious look.
「Okay, remember how you accidentally hit the armor's foot on something?」I asked.
Cid nods, 「Right, I stubbed my toe on something. I remember it hurting. 」
「That's exactly my point.」
「Huh?」
「You were seated on a chair and pulling levers, how did the armor stubbing its toe go back to you?」
Cid strokes his chin and tries to think on it.
「Alright, don't hurt yourself man.」 I said with a chuckle, causing Cid to flip me off and I return it. After a second we laugh and continue playing the game. Honestly, I'm not even sure what we're playing at this point. 「Basically, humans have this ability to extend their senses into the armors thanks to something in the armor's 'drive'. So, when you get hit you usually feel it, even if you don't have one of those super responsive systems in place. However, elves and therianthropes lack whatever it is that allows humans to do that. If I had to guess, it's just something that Cleare never figured out how to do.」
「Okay, so what should we do then? Cut up one of each and see the difference?」asked Cid in a way that I hoped was sarcastic.
I shook my head, 「No, you maniac. We have to build something that allows the armors to become responsive to the demi-humans.」
「Oh? Do we even have the time?」asked Cid.
I smiled, 「Well, this is just a theory. But I think it already exists.」
Cid seemed to think on it for a few seconds, like he needed to phone a friend to answer me before he snapped back to attention 「The slime…!」
I nodded, 「From what I can tell, they're able to become so complex they can mimic people. To the degree that it can be impossible to tell whether they're alive or not. Meaning that it probably can do exactly what we need it to, and let the demi-humans have the same responsive system they've lacked. I mean, I don't know what that'd look like…」
「Mm, I'll talk to Lord Shadow about it. I usually meet with him about once a month anyway… but I'll probably need something to get him to agree.」 said Cid.
Boy, I love how I'm in prison for being suspected of making deals with Lord Shadow and have to save the nation by teaming up with The Shadow Garden and making deals with Lord Shadow.
I briefly recall what Lord Shadow asked for the last time I teamed up with him.
「Hey, Luxion. Do we have some desktop computers we can spare?」I asked.
[ 「A few. I suppose we can get rid of some of the older models without having to worry about it.」]
I give Cid a thumbs up and he returns it.
"You know," called out the voice of my lovely wife-to-be Angie as she approached in a dress that I loved, "Talking in a language only you two boys know does not help with the accusations."
As I take in Angie's appearance—noticing that rather than her favored bun she has her hair in a simple ponytail, likely done in a hurry—Cid picks up the cards. I walk up to the bars and hold Angie's hands through it. I feel a bit bad but then again Cid used to flirt with Alice all the time during our adventures and make me, Livia, and Claire awkwardly watch so this is just fair.
"Anything I can get for you next time?" asked Cid.
"Don't suppose you can get me the world's greatest attorney?" I snarked.
Cid thought about it, "Well, no but… hm… I'll look into it."
With that he left, leaving me alone with Angie. I don't really think that Cid can do what I asked, but then again if he asks Luna nicely enough maybe they can hire some kind of ace attorney.
"Leon…" whispered Angie, who I hugged and kissed the best I could through the bars. After about a minute we separated and Angie rested her head on my chest. "I'm sorry… I… I couldn't do anything."
I ran my head through her hair, realizing that she's become a bit thinner over the week.
"Have you been eating?" I asked.
Angie nodded slowly, "…Livia's been forcing me with help from Alice… I… I'm so scared…"
"Angie…" I whispered. I force Angie to look at me and wipe away some of the tears forming in her eyes. "Hey, hey. What's with the water works? C'mon, you really think that something as dumb as these charges are going to get me?"
"*sob* B-but… " Angie sobbed, "I… this is different from you being safe in your armor and fighting! *sniff* You've… you've fought so hard for this country… *sob* for me…"
Angie collapsed into my chest again. Honestly, I was at a bit of a loss of what to do. But because of the bars I couldn't exactly hug her that well without hurting her. So, I tilted her head again and kissed her gently. Her lips, her face, just about everywhere. As always she giggled softly whenever I doted on her like this.
"Angie… Angie…" I called out. "C'mon, I want to see your smiling face while I'm here… no. I want to see you smiling whenever I see you, forever and ever."
Angie giggled, "If you wanted me to smile so, then perhaps you should be less infuriating."
"Would I be the man you loved if I wasn't?" I replied. Angie just kissed me, probably half because she loved me and half to shut me up.
"Leon…" whispered Angie, "I… what am I to do without you…? What did I do… before you and Livia?"
"You'd be fine." I tried. Like, I'm totally going to fit my foot in my mouth here, but I can't exactly tell her Mylene and Gilbert's plan knowing how she'd react. At least for now… but maybe… "I mean… in Alto Liebe it was hinted that no matter what happened to you you'd find a way to-"
I shut my mouth with the way Angie glared at me.
But then she softened, "I… I've been having nightmares of that."
"Huh?"
"Of what my life may have been like had you not been there."
"…"
"I think it's Ann. I think she's been trying to urge me to… I don't even know. Elope maybe?"
"What is it that you see?"
"I'm… I'm in the ballroom during the end of term banquet. But there's no you, no Marie. The person next to the five idiots is Livia for some godforsaken reason… and she's miserable. She… she says something like I've been picking on her the entire time and she just wants for me to leave her alone. Julius calls for a duel… and no one comes to represent me. It's just me on my own… and I lose."
"That… is what happened in the game."
"Is it said what happened to me after?"
"…Not much… it's said that you were married off to some no-name ugly baron."
"…"
Angie and I stay like that for a minute, but as always when confronted by something awkward my mind goes somewhere it shouldn't, and I start laughing.
"Wha—!? Leon!" admonished Angie as she lightly pounded her fists on my chest, "We were having a moment!"
"I-I know! It's just a funny thought occurred to me." I said cupping my wife-to-be Angie's adorable pouty face. "What *snrrk* what if… Just hear me out, what if that baron you get married off to is me?"
Angie stops. "Huh?"
I wipe a tear from my eye and enjoy Angie's adorable, baffled look. "I mean… think about it. With everything we know about your mom and dad they probably wouldn't have done something like what my dad and Zola almost did, right? Chances are that whoever you were set to marry in that timeline was going to be around your age."
"…Right…" said Angie, somewhat following along with my logic.
"And if I didn't know about Luxion, chances are I would've gone to the army. Probably would've gotten injured in some way. Or maybe I would've like… I don't know… made myself so unappealing that I wouldn't have been unable to be married off." I continued.
Angie smiled beautifully, "So we may be destined to always end up together."
"I'd say so." I said with a wide grin.
Angie leans in for another kiss. This time she moans into it a little and starts using her tongue.
She worms a leg through the cell and onto me, that combined with the arms around my head make me feel like she's trying to see if she can pull me through. I snake my arms through and lift her up. But just as quickly I put her down.
"Leon…?" asked Angie with her half-lidded stare that drives me mad.
"If I don't stop now, I'm going to be driven… why are you kneeling?"
"I'm sure you can guess."
"But… someone can walk in at any point."
"My maid, Livia, and a few guards are outside. They know what we're doing. I know it will be difficult for you, but since we took a few minutes to discuss things you'll have to try and be quick."
"…Are you sure?"
"A wife should do at least this much… hm… you know your Balmung is already threatening to burst those pants open, perhaps we should skip to the main part."
I ended up having some really, really passionate child making sex with Angie… I'm really glad the dungeon was empty besides her, because boy was she not quiet.
-Kageno/Cid/Shadow/…-
I walked my way back to my Mitsugoshi branded ship. I figure I'll take another look at what's going on in Leon's territory and then go home and dote over Alpha. Maybe see if there's anything I can do to get Leon a lawyer.
"I'm surprised you aren't interested in taking the lead here somehow." Said Violet.
Eh, I mean there's some kind of appeal here but there's too much going on. I feel like this is more of a wait and see arc. Like a filler one that shows people what the other characters do when the main character is out of the running.
"Mm. Well, 1: I keep telling you that these are just coincidences and everyone is really going through shit now. 2: I guess I can see your point. You're supposed to be busy with managing the production, Olivier is pregnant, Mary and Ann can't do much without the political backing of others, and Lea is going to be stuck in jail for now… still though, I feel like there's got to be something we can do."
Well sure but I'm drawing a blank. You kind of need inspiration to come up with a persona y'know, it doesn't just come running up to you-
"Cid!" shouted a voice that I hadn't expected to hear again today, "Cid wait up!"
I turned around to see Angelica and Olivia running up to me.
"Uh, hey…!" I greeted. Since we were next to the ship run currently by Victoria, Lambda, and Nu I motioned for them to bring some water and tea. A maid that trailed in after Olivia and Angelica helped herself to some and then served everyone.
Once Angelica and Olivia get their breath and begin to explain themselves, I feel the gears in my heads start turning. Or I suppose, I feel the sewing machines fire up and start the next project.
"So you want me to drop you off at the temple?" I asked.
Angelica nodded. "Right… It's true that without Leon or my father I don't have much pull. However, it's entirely possible that either Livia or I could come upon power of our own."
"We're… honestly I'm not sure how it works, but we're both compatible with the Saintess' relics." Said Olivia.
My eyes widened at the implication, "Meaning that one of you should qualify for the empty position!"
The girls nodded with resolution that only one of two people could have. 1. A protagonist. 2. A woman in love. Terrifyingly for Fanoss they were both.
The maid was completely baffled though.
"But will that be enough?" I asked, knowing exactly what kind of story I want to help develop. "I mean, even your father couldn't just get him out for a reason, right?"
"I… I know, but… we have to try something." Insisted Angelica.
"Right you are Angelica." I agreed, "Look, earlier Leon asked if I knew an attorney… well I don't unfortunately. And honestly, I think there isn't an attorney in this world that would agree to defend him."
The girls winced at this.
But I smiled, "But I happen to know a pretty good detective. I'll get into contact with him, and he'll be able to help you and Olivia defend Leon yourselves."
Olivia and Angelica both give resolute smiles and shake my hand in agreement. I let them on to the ship and give Victoria the request to shift our destination. With one the payment of one hug she readily made the change.
"By the way Cid." Said Olivia as we began to take off. "You can call me Livia. We've been friends for years now, so I think we're close enough."
"I'd like for you to call me Angie as well. I know I don't talk to you one on one, but you're a dear friend to both Leon and Livia. As far as I'm concerned you're basically family." Said Angelica.
"I mean, technically considering Claire and Leon's union you would be family in some weird way." Pointed out Violet.
For my part I just scratched my cheek, not sure how to deal with the blatant platonic/familial affection. "… I'll keep that in mind."
I turned around and did my best to ignore Violet's little 'ufufu'-ing
However, I learned something through Livia and Angie's whispering.
"Alice was right, he really is weak to people saying nice things to him." Whispered Livia.
Alpha you traitor! I'm going to smoosh your face and nibble on your ears as much as I please when I get back home!
Angie whispered back, "He's one of those 'Coo-d'rey's' Leon was talking about for sure."
Leon. As soon as you get out of jail, I'm going to kick your ass.
-Stephanie-
I was rubbing Foxtrot's shoulders as an apology for exploring her daughter's throat with my tongue. I figure I might as well get used to it since I plan on doing it again.
As I do this I see our boss walk in and he has a rather determined look on his face.
"Where is Eta's subordinates!?" He demanded.
Charlie looks over to me, "What did you do?"
"Wha-!? Why do you assume it's me? What did I do to deserve this kind of treatment!" I asked, to which Foxtrot and Yankee just leveled their blank stares at me. "I mean what specifically!?"
Suddenly a hand is on my shoulder, and I see Charlie and Foxtrot have scared looks on their faces. I slowly turn my head and find Nu glaring at me. Her stare kind of reminds me of the pirates I used to hire to do stuff, but way more intimidating. What's worse is that she's not alone. A woman with devil horns stares at me with a similar gaze.
"If Lord Shadow calls for you," said the scary woman, "you answer."
The devil woman with a voice reminiscent of a ghost in despair shouted, "Why are you sitting around."
Charlie and I grab Foxtrot and start sprinting to where we heard Lord Shadow's voice last. We end up in the throne room where we see him with Lady Gamma and Lady Shade. As soon as we reach the room, we drop Foxtrot so that all three of us can bow.
"Sorry for the late arrival sir!" shouted Charlie, and I think Foxtrot said something similar but she kind of ate it when we dropped her, and her words are muffled by the carpet.
I didn't trust my own words to not be sarcastic or stutter, so I just bowed my head a little lower than Charlie.
"Rise." Commanded Lord Shadow, so Charlie and I grabbed Foxtrot and stood up. I saw the night sky frame Lord Shadow's visage. His red eyes seemingly able to stare through our souls but having about as much interest in it as one would an ant.
Y'know, Sherry? I think I get it. If I had to pick a dude…
"Girls." Stated Lady Shade, making the room fall silent. Honestly, part of me believed that the world itself heard her and made itself just a little bit quieter so we could pay attention.
"Yankee, Charlie, you two are to stay silent." Explained Lady Gamma, "We'll have a job for you in a bit, but for now we need Foxtrot's knowledge."
I didn't even dare nod. Lady Gamma's scolding still having a bit of an effect on me. How The Shades can go from young women in love to the people as powerful as they are on a dime is creepy and almost as scary as they are.
"Foxtrot… no, Lukreia…" said Lord Shadow, informing me of Foxtrot's real name.
…
Sherry didn't even know it…
Lord Shadow continued. "This may pain you, but you are our current best informant of Fanoss and the member of the knights of the round, Vandel. I need you to inform us of everything you know."
Foxtrot, who was cleaning her bloody nose from face planting earlier, sighs.
"As you command Lord Shadow…" however in the middle of her sentence a thought appeared to cross her mind, "Wait… are we killing Vandel?"
"Most likely."
"Oh hell yeah!" shouted Lukreia as she stood up and took both of Lord Shadow's hands, stars in her eyes though I could barely see her expression. Lord Shadow even leaned back a bit because of how close Lukreia was to him. "Ask me anything! I'll do whatever it takes! If you need me to man an armor and take him down then I. Am. Your. Woman!"
"Lukreia."
Lukreia immediately retreated back to where Charlie and I were, her slime dress melting away so she'd go to the ground and prostrate herself. "Yes. Ma'am. Your ladyship sir. I'm sorry."
Lady Shade has gotten so much scarier since she became pregnant.
Lord Shadow cupped his chin to ponder what to ask Lukreia, but something about his gaze told me despite his earlier admission he already knew everything she was going to tell him.
-Lukreia/Foxtrot-
"My lord." I said gazing upon the young boy who served as both my savior and that of my daughter, "Please, ask me anything you'd like Nothing shall be held a secret from you, even my daughter's three sizes."
Out of the corner of my eye I see Stephanie bristle, "Wha-!? Wait, how do you know th-"
Charlie thankfully elbows her in the side to shut her up.
"*Ahem* There is no need for that information. Let us start with this, how familiar are you with the situation in Fanoss?" asked Lord Shadow.
I nodded and began to recount everything I knew to the best of my ability.
"Let's see…
If you are speaking of the war between Fanoss and Holfort then I can say that should you be well aware of truth of the matter, yes? That it was originally Fanoss that started the fight.
See the at-the-time ruler of Fanoss, a Duke of Holfort at the time, had teamed up with outside countries to rebel and declare themselves an independent Principality.
However, given their rebellion Fanoss found itself alone. Holfort would no longer trade with it, and any country that wanted to remain an ally of Holfort wouldn't be able to continue any business with Fanoss. This of course, had disastrous consequences for the country and its citizens' well being.
The Duke had passed, and the nation's nobility needed to come to a conclusion on how to solve their issue. Most of the nobility had wanted to go to war. However, the nation's King and Queen opposed the idea, likely in part due to their recently born twin daughters.
…The nobility didn't like that, Vandel included.
So, the King and Queen were killed and it was said to be done by a random Holfortian assassin.
Afterwards they began to wage war with Holfort. Or well, it was called war, but really it was a constant battle waged by children turned into soldiers on both sides while the adults would slip through the cracks and do their best to steal resources from Holfort. Ships, armors, food…"
Stephanie speaks up, although her voice is so quiet and broken that perhaps it wouldn't be correct to describe her voice as louder than before, "Women and children as well, right?"
…
Stephanie… you look so small.
I hug the young girl, "…Yes. But the family that did that was destroyed and" I make sure to look in her eyes as I say this, "everyone was set free."
Stephanie nods and hugs me back.
"Stephanie of Mitsugoshi." Called out Lord Shadow in his infinite kindness, "We are going to speak of what led to Lukreia meeting with us next. Do you desire to leave the room?"
Stephanie looked at me, as if asking me for permission.
I'll admit that part of me is angry with Stephanie.
I miss having legs.
I miss being out in the open.
I miss Sherry, so, so, so, so much
…But Stephanie's the same age as my daughter.
I can't blame her.
Not entirely.
And if Lord Shadow deemed her worthy enough to recruit, then I should follow his lead.
"Why don't you and Charlie leave for now? Rest well for whatever it is that Lord Shadow will need you for." I asked.
Stephanie nodded, and Charlie had taken her by the hand to lead her out.
I imagine that day is as much of a sore spot for her as it is for me.
As soon as they were out, I continued my story.
"Well, not to sound arrogant…
But I was considered something of a prodigy in the academic field.
Of course, I likely hold no candle to You or Lady Eta, but in the realm of standards set by us mortals I was among the best of the best. I was a top researcher and no one could compete with me… it was rather lonely, I'll admit. I was fortunate to have some companionship in the form of my late husband—may he rest in the Saintess' embrace—but once he was gone it was just me and Sherry against the world.
However, as I began to research some of the lost items, with a focus on the origins of the creators."
Lord Shadow cut in "You speak of Old Humanity?"
My eyes widen.
"Old… humanity…?" I asked.
Even though the discovery that the lost items came from a specific race of people now lost to us was something of my discovery—namely the aspect of proving it for sure—Lord Shadow mentions it off hand as though it's a neat piece of trivia he learned on a whim or by accident.
"It'd be best to ask Leon, he's the leading expert on the subject." Said Lord Shadow, surprising me once again. To know a expert on the subject that usually is nothing but a dead end for any researcher in the field… Sasuga Shadow-sama! "But that can wait until later. Please, continue. How did you come to know the black knight?"
"Vandel... That bastard…! I'll never forgive him…!
Sigh*
Apologies.
As I had said earlier, I was in charge of researching artifacts. Most of my actions were funded by the academia itself, but one day I came across something called the eye of avarice. I believe that you are already familiar, considering how it was used in the school.
Vandel was very, very interested in it. He funded my research even more and even spent time with Sherry so that I could spend even more time research it. I believe it is because the eye doesn't just absorb the magic around everyone. No, when paired up with the control unit it would take in all of the mana and then give it to the wielder.
I was afraid of what someone could do with it, so I had told Vandel that I planned to hand it over to the government. At the time, I didn't live in Fanoss, I lived in a border town controlled by Holfort. Needed the space to conduct experiments without burning down a town, y'know? So It would have been handed over to Holfort's division rather than Fanoss's.
Well, Vandel disagreed. He wanted to keep it. We argued for days. Eventually he left. The Winter festival had come about so I decided to take Sherry out. She was so excited… sorry.
I believe you've heard me say this before, but that's when I was kidnapped. I believe Sherry was left untouched and sent home, at least according to Stephanie.
While on the pirate ship I was interrogated as to the location of the eye. Interrogation that of course involved being whipped for several hours. However, given that it was a bunch of incompetent pirates they hadn't noticed that the lost item they wanted the entire time was hidden on my person. So after a few hours of torture when they left me alone because you all had begun to invade, I took out the eye from it's place in my mouth.
It tasted like pennies, if you were curious.
Anyway, I activated it from there… and well you found me soon after we crashed due to it causing the float stone to not work anymore either."
-Kageno/Cid/Shadow[being created]-
I recall the day we saved Sherry's mom pretty well.
Honestly it was probably the first time I had to retreat. Also the last. But that's just because when Lukreia crashed the ships all the girls got a little hurt, and The Black Knight probably would've hurt them even more if we tried to fight him at that point. So while the girls all healed and then evacuated everyone I watched as The Black Knight moved about the wreckage.
Because, while Lukreia knew how to amp up the situation, she might have not known that the dude was on board. At least given by how when Vandel found her…
*11 years ago*
The ships had been in total disarray. Most pirates that we hadn't gotten to were dead and if they weren't they were bleeding out. With the use of slime and some ice magic to make snow, we managed to get all the captured people safely out. At least, all the possessed that we came for. Some civilians were injured but they weren't our priority.
The girls had to go around and cure people with possession, heal the otherwise injured, fight off any well enough pirates with nothing left to lose, and then evacuate. Honestly it was exactly the challenge they needed at the time, things never really felt like they had stakes until then.
I went off to make sure The Black Knight would just leave. See, I could probably take him at the time. But the thing was, it was still the early days. It wasn't that I could defend myself, it was that I wasn't sure I could go all out while everyone else was there.
Luckily, he only had one thing in mind. The Eye of Avarice.
I remember him walking up to the wreckage of the ship Lukreia was kept in. He braved the flames, cut down any wood in his way, and eventually came upon her location underneath a collapsed support pillar. One foot in front of her was a relic that I couldn't really make out at the time thanks to the smoke.
"Vandel…?" called out Lukreia weakly, "Did you come *cough* to save me…?"
But Vandel said nothing. He knelt down, but to Lukreia's horror he only grabbed the relic.
"Vandel…?" she whispered. "Vandel, you *cough* can't *cough* be serious…!"
Vandel stood up.
"Vandel! At least set *cough* me free!"
He began to turn away.
"*Cough!* I can't leave Sherry behind!" cried out Lukreia as she grabbed his leg. "You *COUGH* of all *cough!* people shouldn't want to *Cough* separate a mother and child!"
Vandel stopped.
But he didn't turn back around. No, instead what he did was take out a gun and level it at Lukreia. In horror she let go. Vandel walked away again. But after taking a few steps he fiddled with his gun, took out all of the bullets except for one. He then slid the gun towards her, the implication clear.
Lukreia had impressed me by using what little strength she had and shooting at Vandel. He deflected the bullet and tried to throw a knife at her head. But I stepped in and caught it with two fingers.
"You have what you wanted, don't you?" I asked.
Vandel looked at me, before nodding and walking away. Once I couldn't detect his magic signature anymore I turned back to Lukreia who had fainted from the blood loss.
I obviously wanted someone that cool in my crew so I lifted the stuff that was pinning her down
But looking back from the present…
… She unfortunately, kinda didn't have a connected torso and waist. It was the first time I ever healed anything so bad so I kinda messed up and she was stuck without legs. Like, most of it connected just fine and still worked. But the lower back… dust… so I didn't have a lot to work with at the time.
I could fix it now, but last time I asked Lukreia she said she wanted to keep it that way. So that if Vandel ever sees her again she could freak him out or something.
"Woah…" Violet admired the cool back story that Lukreia had. "Wait… how come you never knew Sherry before meeting her at school? Did Lukreia never try to meet her?"
Oh, well 1: Alpha did have some people watch Sherry, but mostly from afar. I think the last we've heard from then they managed to move into Fanoss' capital. They'd follow Sherry around whenever she wasn't in the castle.
And 2: Sherry's name wasn't Sherry according to Lukreia. It's supposed to be Shirley.
"Excuse me!" shouted out a voice.
I look to the door way and find one of the numbers I left behind with Livia and Angie approach.
Knowing what she's about to say, I turn to Gamma.
"I'm going to need a new disguise."
-Angelica-
Livia and I stand before Leon in Mylene's office as we await for the meeting in the throne room. Claire and Iris are still in Midgar as they should have just finished with the aftermath of the Bushin Festival. Clarice and Deirdre are assisting Cid with the production of the fleet given how their families both specialize in the creation and maintenance of air bikes, and the ability to get soldiers out quickly from far away respectively.
Unfortunately, it's just the three of us for now.
I do appreciate how it gives us the opportunity to enjoy how Leon's mouth opened wide enough to fit an apple when he saw us in our new Saintess garb… yes us.
[That you were accepted as the Saintess' two halves baffles me. My records show that religion typically does not allow for there to be changes once the doctrine has been written.]
"Well, my different colored eyes kind of helped," explained Livia.
Yes, thanks to her eyes, both of us being completely able to use the relics, Livia's ability to summon the staff, my resemblance to the Saintess, as well as our ability to synchronize our abilities to create a divine flame led the Church to believe that the reason the Saintess never appeared again was because her soul had been fragmented.
The legend does go that after giving birth to the heir of the kingdom she went missing. According to Mary's memories this was because she split herself up into the staff, necklace, and bracelet. Although only the staff contained her soul, the others lost items would be used as catalysts for Lea and Ann.
"Well…" said Leon as he ran his shackled hands over his neck to loosen his shirt's collar, "I think the church maybe needs to reconsider what they have the woman supposed to embody holiness and pureness wear."
"Having sinful thoughts dear?" I teased, enjoying how he tries to look away.
Livia forces Leon to look back at her, "That's a big no-no Mister Leon~"
Leon slumps in his chair, having melted away.
Suddenly the doors behind us open.
I expected to see Mylene or some kind of bailiff, but instead a man with a deer stalker cap, a large over coat, some loafers, and a smoking pipe emerges.
"Hello," greets the man, "A friend of yours, Cid I believe was the chap's name, said that you may be in need of my services."
"SHERLOCK HOLMES!?" shouted Leon as he hurried to stand.
"Sherlock Holmes!" shouted Livia with a fit of excitement.
"Sherlock Holmes?" I questioned, having been unfamiliar with the name.
The man smiles and puts away his pipe. "Ah, familiar with the books written by Madam Natsume are you? Well I'm afraid that Sherlock is the name she made for the novels."
Novels?
"Please, call me Herlock."
.
.
.
A/N- Leon: "Damn You Doyle Estate!"
Can you tell that I've been reading the Light Novels based on the writing? Btw Louise? I love her. She's great. It's like Olivia alter honestly.
Serge? It was funny as shit seeing that he thought he beat the shit out of Leon, only for Leon to literally do the Cid thing of using fake blood packets to pretend he got his ass handed to him. But when they meet again later Leon just backhands him no issue when Serge is in the way.
Oh, and I'll admit I learned Sherry's mom's name during the writing process. It's neat enough that I figured I'd give her a section. I'm not joking, originally it was one of the Shades that was going to flashback for the Fanoss stuff.
Hey, this next chapter, if you couldn't tell by my hint, is largely inspired by the Ace Attorney series. Specifically, the Great Ace Attorney games. I've only finished the first of the two, but I fell in love with all the stuff that happens there. Anyway, I figured an Ace Attorney style investigation/trial would better fit what I wanted to happen right before the Fanoss invasion proper. So, this should either finish within this next chapter, or maybe 1 more.
Honestly, I've said this so many times but there's always so much more set up in writing than I expect there to be. The trial was supposed to take up half of this chapter.
BTW if you're curious, Rose and her father are still in hiding right now. The Shadow Garden knows where they are (Iris has a few checkpoints where her knights are stationed to make sure they're good on their way back on Leon's side) but given the whole "King was almost killed by his chancellor" thing they're not going to get involved for this arc probably.
Now let's answer those comments.
Bladist: You should see the mom's name I made up. Mai PlazH Nam = My place holder name.
I was going to have Cleare act embarrassed but I was getting close to the end of the chapter and just wanted to end it. Sometimes I get close to the end and run out of things to write. It's usually at about 8000 words that it happens. Like I have stuff I still want to say but I start blue screening on how to say it.
Lol, I wouldn't consider my readers lowly… except for the guy that suggested I kill the baby so Cid would go on a rampage.
The Fanoss allegations are still there, but just less so given that Leon's been everywhere but home.
So that hint was supposed to hint towards Cid's newest persona Herlock Sholmes. As well as the fact that we're going to have a trial with many objections and a big reveal. Due to how not even Ace Attorney used Sherlock in the west, I won't either.
Someone ani: I think that most of the fleets numbered about 100 ships at most, so about that? But if I want to spare poor Luxion and his digital hips from his succubus wife Cleare, then I'd assume one for every 10 ships given that some of them should be manned by actual crews.
Bojanx2x: Yup! That's kinda why I wanted to go the Ace Attorney trial route.
EDG1999: You're going to need an account to be able to read it. Like I've attempted it myself by logging out and that's when I can't see it. But here's the link to my story: https/forum./threads/lifes-a-pay-to-win-game.27248/
SB
MWKillKenn84: Yup, Malcom hasn't taken into account how much more pro-killing this Leon is.
Dovahsebrom: I'm so sorry, that's probably the meanest thing I've ever done to anyone. If you want to enjoy the story and some stuff from the game I'd recommend watching Cleater SV on youtube, he uploads everything without commentary then.
Also that reminds me, it's the second anniversary of the game right now and they offered everyone a ticket to pull their favorite of the seven shades and I think Master Shadow. I went for Delta because I didn't have the adult version yet. Then I got the Maid Adult Delta almost immediately.
Ao3
Anisomeone: Go ahead and leave the long ones here. You're right that more people talk about the fic on Ao3 than the other sites.
My luck strikes again, I wrote that line before the leaks of the event came out.
I usually worry that it's too OOC for the Shades to worry about him like that, so I'm glad it's received well.
The Kagenou's have no lore, so I decided to make them the perfect set of parents that would give birth to Cid. Like legit, his mom's segment opens with Cid's soliloquy on why he wants to become the Eminence in Shadow. Otou also seduced Mai the same way Cid did Alexia in this fic if you recall Claire's comment about the family seduction techniques.
Lol yeah.
Yeah, my first idea was to kill shadow to make way for John Smith and then make like… Super Saiyan Shadow.
I don't know why, but I feel like Luxion would be a total "girl dad" if he were a human.
Out of curiosity who would you call the most yandere member of The Seven Shades?
I always like it when people comment on one scene. I think the last time was when I had Cid break down.
Gary (Guest): No worries.
For the most part Cid has a reason for being like how he is. He's also extremely petty, so I think in canon him just ignoring his parents was because he didn't care about them anymore.
Yeah, The Partner's pretty cool.
I'd love to read new fics. It feels like there's only 5 of us still writing in either EiS or Mobuseka.
You know? That never occurred to me. Sherry probably would've had some interest in Luxion. Huh. Lmao "puff balls with knives."
Yup. The Kagenou family seduction technique (Claire mentioned it when Cid asked out Alexia. I thought the parallel would've been noticed but it has been a bit.)
Haha yeah, total bros.
I'll get into it during the trial, but there's some reasons that Leon stopped talking to Roland about everything.
Yup, but there's a reason that he was able to do all that shit in canon too.
Hope you like where I decided to take Angelica on her warpath.
Thanks for reading, the comments give me power.
Wolfpaladin: That's hilarious. I haven't gotten to the books with Erica in it, but when I do and I think they can click I'd totally go for it.
Lmao, Marie and Lukreia sharing custody of Sherry.
Akane should be fun when I get to her.
Yup, the parents were written to have realistically been able to spawn Cid and Claire, glad I could deliver on the lore.
The allies can purge the nobles, but there is a plan in place. Angelica does not know this plan.
Yeah, they probably would hate the plan.
People facing the marriage allegations: Cid, Leon, Sherry, and now Luxion.
Rainsensei: Well the main thing is that the nobles want him out of the way and to gain his stuff. It doesn't have to make sense for them.
But yeah, if things went wrong Luxion and/or The Shadow Garden would get involved. So Leon's not really in any danger. But Angelica doesn't know that.
Dave (Guest): Well I think the main reason Julius wasn't allowed while the others were wasn't just because he was the crown prince but because he was an incompetent crown prince.
I'm definitely going to do the love trial, lol. I even have a funny idea for a non-canon omake.
Hope you liked Foxtrot's recruitment story.
Mordred, maybe. Fenrir, I'm not sure.
Totntotbt: Almost no one ever fleshes them out. I figured that this fic is exactly the one to give mobs more of a role, so why not do that with the actual mobs.
Which side note: Yume being Yumeria's past life wasn't made up. That one fic got that right. Although I don't think Noelle was reincarnated from anyone, unless stated in the books I haven't read yet.
A futurama fan I see. But yeah, if there wasn't the plan that Angelica and Olivia weren't privy to, then Frampton would be so fucked. Like, he would've been dead at the end of the last chapter, two sentences max.
I never thought about that, Marie must be freaking out right about now. I should give her a segment next time if I can.
BOY4_GOW:
1. Yeah. If you check I already actually deleted the lemons on Ao3.
2. Save me John Smith arc. Save me.
a. Side note: how long do you guys think it should take for Alpha to give birth? Full 9 months? Earlier? Longer? Elves are weird after all.
3. Cid is loved. He knows it and is really shy about it.
4. Yeah, it did seem a little out of character, but I figured it kind of fit with the lore.
5. Oh yeah totally. That much bloodlust would kill any small animal.
I do have an idea for how to write the grandparent versions of the Kagenous.
6. He doesn't love her like a wife but he can respect the need to breed.
7. Yup.
8. Oh that was one of my most "no idea how the fuck to start a segment" sentences ever, glad it was funny though.
9. I was referencing Yozora specifically actually, as he fights with a crossbow and sword at the same time, which Leon does sometimes when piloting Arroganz.