Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Prologue : 

For as long as Mikleo could remember, Sorey had always been a sickly child. Often, he would wake up in the morning just fine only to be overcome with high fever during the day. Mikleo knew from what Gramps told him it was worse when Sorey was an infant and often worried the Elysians  that the baby wouldn't survive the night. It had been hard to imagine considering the fact that usually, Sorey's fever went down by the next day and as they both grew older Sorey became stronger and illness became a thing of the past.

Well, Mikleo thought it was. That's why it didn't cross his mind that Sorey could have been bothered by the cold while they had so much fun playing in the first snow of the year. They played for hours between snow ball fights and snowman building and their laughter had echoed in Elysia mountains. Warmth filled Mikleo's heart at the memory and he felt bad for it. He should feel bad. He didn't see Sorey's lips turning blue from the cold. He didn't see the boy shiver while he gathered snow in his gloved hands to throw at him.

But Sorey was a fragile human boy, not a seraph of dragon decent like him. Seeing his bedridden friend like this, cheeks hot and red from fever, labored breathing coming in pants out of his open mouth between coughing fits and blowing of nose, Mikleo knew he was accountable for all of this.

He was the responsible of the two. He should have guessed that Sorey wasn't feeling well but preferred to play than to see it.

And now there was nothing he could do to make it better.

Gramps told him it was just a thing called the flu and that Sorey was fighting it like a warrior; still Mikleo didn't leave his bedside in three whole days, alternating between clutching their favorite book in his hands and reading through it. Even though  guilt was gnawing at him Mikleo wasn't about to let it win. Sorey was going to survive this and it wouldn't make him better to worry over that. The best thing Mikleo could do was to take this as a lesson and make sure it won't happen ever again.

He promised himself he would always protect Sorey, even if the job would cost him all of his energy considering how curious, lively and reckless Sorey actually was. Mikleo didn't mind that in the least, he too loved adventure.

The words in his book started to blur together, he couldn't really concentrate with Sorey sniffling and trying to stifle a cough beside him.

"Mikleo?" He heard his name being called in a small raspy voice.

Mikleo almost gave himself whiplash looking up to meet Sorey's eyes. It made him flinch hearing Sorey's voice like this. He was more used to whispers in the night  or endless chatter over something they both liked.

Smiling lips and green eyes made glossy by sickness answered him. It was a relief to see Sorey smile, and it flooded Mikleo. Sorey hadn't opened his eyes for what felt like eternity and somewhere in the back of Mikleo's mind a voice told him he should go fetch Gramps, but not too soon. Having Sorey a little for himself couldn't make things worse.

"Can you give me some water please?" Sorey asked.

Mikleo looked at the empty glass on the bedside table and started to fill it while Sorey tried to sit back against his cushion.

"Are you feeling better?" Mikleo ventured to ask, not wanting his worry to show.

"Still feeling a little cloudy," Sorey told him as he accepted the glass from Mikleo's hands, "And my throat is killing me." He added while rubbing at his sore throat.

Their fingers brushed and Sorey absolutely had to take Mikleo's hand in his. He let out a pleased hum when he brought Mikleo’s outstretched hand to lie on his forehead.

"Your hands are so cold, feel good." He slurred, drowsiness coming back.

Flicking Sorey’s forehead, Mikleo brought his hand back against him rubbing it on his robe to ease the tingling sensation Sorey’s too hot forehead left on his skin. Sorey’s touch had started to do that more recently, but now wasn't the time to worry about that. He watched Sorey gulp his water with a smile of his own.

"Go back to sleep, you dumbass." He told him, affection in his voice.

After putting his glass back on the bedside table the best he could from his position, Sorey settled back holding the cover on his chest. Some seconds went by in silence during which Mikleo thought his friend had fallen back asleep, yet Sorey’s voice filled their bedroom again.

"Mikleo?" he asked for a second time. His voice had started to sound better now that he was hydrated

Willing himself not to roll his eyes at his best friend because he should have figured it would happen Mikleo responded.

"Do you need anything else?"

"Are you reading the Celestial Record?"

That was exactly what Mikleo thought he would ask. It was so like Sorey.

"Yes. Want me to read it to you?" Mikleo knew it anyway, better anticipate it.

Nodding, Sorey patted the bed next to him, inviting Mikleo to join him. Not one to say no to comfort and wanting his friend’s proximity after having spent days of worried silence beside him, Mikleo was quick to comply and hop on the bed.

"The Legend of the Dragoon and the Shepherd, please?" asked Sorey as he gave Mikleo a pillow.

They rapidly managed to find a comfortable position, this kind of situation happened often after all. Even if usually Sorey wasn't sick and their position reversed.  Currently, Mikleo sat cuddled to Sorey’s side, his back propped against a pillow and Sorey’s head resting on his chest. He could feel Sorey’s fever induced warmth radiate from him and Sorey’s thick brown hair tickling his chin. It started to make him feel drowsy too, yet he opened the book to a well-known page, an illustration depicting a man wearing and ornate mantle.

"Eleven thousand years ago a huge war broke out between Hellion and Seraphim," Mikleo started to relate, his soft breath moving Sorey’s hair out of his face, "Hellion, Human and Seraph were three sentient species born from the Divine tree that the God of creation planted, yet Hellion being born last deemed Humans and Seraph unfit for their dreamed utopia."

Mikleo paused. That was usually the part when Sorey would comment or ask for precision. However, Sorey remained calm against his chest and if it weren't for the boy's finger tracing over the pictures in the celestial record, Mikleo would had thought he had fallen back asleep.

"That's why they enslaved humans and hunted down Seraphim." Sorey finally continued for him and Mikleo could feel his frown through his clothes.

"Yes, and because apparently Seraph's flesh infused mana was quite tasty to them." Mikleo shivered, he was thinking back to those dark times he felt happy to have grown up in Elysia far from the rest of the world.

"Mhm, At least they didn't kill everyone. Not Gramps, not your ancestors."

Mikleo nodded as he turned a page, "That’s because humans and Seraphim came together against their oppressor."

 The new page showed an illustrated dragon, scales painted in ocean blue over a serpentine form. This part always made Mikleo uncomfortable to read out loud and he usually would let Sorey be the one to do the reading, but Sorey’s throat was hurting and Mikleo owed him that because he had failed to protect him.

He took a deep breath to make sure his voice didn't waver, Sorey’s sweaty scent filling his nostrils, "Seraphim were descendants of dragon and so could invoke them. Eight chosen Seraph were sacrificed to become dragons, they became known as the Empyrean. Or The Lord of Dragoon. The celestial record only gives the name of four of them though."

"Ah, yes, I know them," Sorey interjected with enthusiasm. "The Blue-sea Dragon was given birth through Amenoch, the Jade-Green Dragon was Hyanoa and Musiphe the Red-eyed Dragon." Sorey had to stop to cough in his closed fist, his enthusiasm cut down by his flu.

Mikleo grinded his teeth while caressing his friend’s back to ease the strain in his lungs. The coughing fit was short and not as terrible as they were in the first days of Sorey's flu, it pained Mikleo no less to see his friend suffering.

"You really should go back to bed now." Mikleo told him while starting to close the book.

But Sorey, sick or not wasn't keen on going back to sleep yet. Hell, he had been bedridden for a whole week now, he had done enough sleeping for a century. He grabbed the book from Mikleo's hand and turned another page.

"But we haven't reached the Shepherd part yet." Sorey protested.

His pouty lips and puppy dog eyes won Mikleo over. With a defeated sigh he settled Sorey back against him. "Promise you will go back to sleep after."

Sorey was quick to nod, smile as blinding as summer sun.

"Where were we, ah yes you forgot to name Eumacia the Golden Dragon. Those were the four main elemental Dragoon but there also was the Violet Dragon of lightning, the Dark dragon and the White-Silver Dragon. The eighth one was the rumored Divine Dragon but there was no record of his participation in the war."

"Maotelus." Sorey said.

"You can't be certain that the Seraph god is the rumored Divine dragon." Mikleo answered.

"It's a hunch. One day we will go explore the world and I would prove it to you." Sorey nuzzled against his chest then stuck out his tongue at him.

"Gross!" Mikleo shoved him.

It truly was disgusting. Sorey’s tongue was colored white from his sickness. Mikleo rather preferred its rosy color when it would lick away ice cream he had made.

Even so, Sorey came back to lay his head against his chest and Mikleo allowed him. "The Shepherd part, now please." He begged.

"All right, all right," Mikleo turned the page now the picture was of a man holding a round stone in the palm of his hand, "Being creature of mana born from elements, Dragons were wild and untamable and wouldn't even listen to other seraphim, yet the plan all along was to use humans with high sensitivity to their mana to guide them, their Shepherd. Seven Other Seraph were chosen to fight with the Shepherd, the Dragoon lords offering them their soul and power to wear like armor. A chosen Seraph could wear the armor of his element and a Human Shepherd could fuse with a Seraph from any element and wore all types of armor. The power of Dragoon was too much for a seraph to bear alone, the shepherd was a necessary conductor."

Mikleo could tell that was Sorey’s favorite part from the way he relaxed against him, the boy's body molding against his own.

"Together they fought the Hellions and brought back the peace we know today. Still it came at a cost and humans today fear and respect Seraphim all the same, that's the fear that brought the remaining Seraphim to live far away from human life. They knew too much from the past and what fear can bring in its wake. " Mikleo shrugged at that.

"What about the Hellions?" Sorey asked, though he most certainly knew the answer.

"They disappeared, not even one was seen since Eleven thousand years ago."

"They better be, I wouldn't what one to come here and eat my Mikleo."

This sounded so wrong to Mikleo he had to swallow to keep talking. Sorey wasn't being funny with that and he knew it.

"Well, it said that if calamity were to rise again a Shepherd would answer to it, Seraphim have long life spans and it may be that even those who fought the Dragoon war could still be here today. Or the new Shepherd will need new Seraph."

Sorey's breathing had evened and his chest was rising and falling peacefully, but it was only when Mikleo closed the celestial record he was sure that Sorey had finally fallen back asleep. He was stuck under him though and moving away was difficult without waking him. Shrugging, Mikleo decided it was better to accompany his friend in the dream world. He was starting to feel heaviness in his lids when a mumble woke him.

"Mikleo?" Sorey innocently asked for the third time.

"What." He responded patiently.

"You aren't a water Dragoon, right?"

That wasn't the first time Sorey asked that. Mikleo being a water seraph didn't mean he was a chosen one. Sorey would know, he wasn't the only water seraph in Elysia. Yet Mikleo knew he needed the reassurance.

"No, Sorey, you would be the first one to know if it was the case."

"Good, because I wouldn't want a Shepherd to take you away too." Sorey breathed while falling in slumber.

That was a new one, Sorey never voiced that kind of fear before and Mikleo’s brain would have got something out of it if he wasn't already asleep too.

The boy’s bedroom was directly next to the house's fireplace where old Seraph Zenrus, the village chief that adopted the two orphans and raised them like they were his own son, liked to smoke his pipe.

He hadn't wanted to overhear the youngling’s conversation yet he couldn't help but to smile, wrinkles forming under his eyes and next to his mouth. He drew on his pipe as his tired eyes landed on a wooden box high on the shelves, away from young curious hands.

He felt the Violet Dragon soul within it sparkle and stir in approval.

Times were peaceful for now. And he was glad his children were granted the luxury to be children. Yet, they weren't aware of their destiny and he knew there would be a time when they would learn.

Chapter Text

PART I : The Sedian War

Dawn was breaking slowly between the cliff rigged rocks, the first ray of sun enlightening a tall man’s naked chest. His white tattoo adorning his shirtless chest seemed to shine and his palm nervously smoothed his black pants while his other hand sought purchase on a rock. The man’s long white hair swayed in the wind as he stood very close to the cliff edge. His amber eyes had a slight glint as he carefully watched the forest below. Slowly, his finger went up and he touched the heavy looking beads around his neck until they reached the metal pendant on his necklace. He was obviously waiting for something and he was getting impatient to move.

A flock of birds came out of the tree tops, hurried and scared away by the predatory cry of a large beast and the white haired man perked up.

The head of a large tusked creature emerged from the tree ostensibly chasing after the birds. It let out a frustrated screech as the creature’s mouth closed around thin air. The beast stretched up and stared into nothing for a few seconds. Then it started to move deeper into the forest, its large bulk making its movement slow.

"The green tusked dragon Feybrand, then." The man uttered, a smirk painted on his face.

Not wasting any time he jumped between rocks, steps as light as a feather carrying him toward the forest down below, giving chase to the dragon.

 The morning light had yet to reach Elysia sloppy ground, the small village still shrouded in darkness as the early birds started their songs. Despite the quietness that come with the living village time of sleep, light was coming through the window of house near the cliff side, the owner an early riser. The truth was that it was a rare occurrence for Sorey to be the first up, for the Seraphim inhabitant usually didn't need to sleep. They had in fact taken the habit as to not estrange the only human resident of their village, their wholes live thus designed to resemble more that of humans.

Sorey's home was a mess of trinkets, books and other belongings he gathered over the years, even so there was some tidiness in the disorder. The books were well cared for, and those who couldn't reach the full bookcase were carefully staked in neat pile. No speck of dust dirtied either the floorboard or the confortable looking rug and the fireplace was clean and still warm. Even the bed was well made, supposing the owner had spent the night in it and not in his neighbor house.

The rest of Elysia may be still asleep, but this house was rather animated. Sorey was walking back and forth, his boots repeatedly tapping against the wooden floor as he gathered all necessary supplies in a travel bag.

He was getting excited by the second at the idea of his expedition with Mikleo in the ruin nearing Elysia and couldn't wait for his friend to wake up and meet him at Elysia’s gates. This time he was sure to be the one to win, Sorey would be the first to find something of historical value and shut Mikleo’s mouth on the ruin estimated date of construction.

Now that they weren't children any longer but young adults in their late teens, gramps had stopped trying to forbid them from going to explore those ruin. Even when they were children it had been a lost cause. So, Mount Mabinogio had been their playground for years, yet Sorey knew they still had so much to discover from it. He had carefully planned their expedition and all they would need for the day and more if needed.

That was considering if only he could remember where he put his grappling hook now.

Frustrated with himself, Sorey stopped pacing and started to acknowledge the idea that he forgot his hook at Mikleo's house. He was letting out a sight, resigned to wait when a knock sounded at his door.

A smile tugging on his lips, Sorey rushed to open the door thinking it could only be Mikleo getting as impatient as him coming to get him this early. He was clearly disappointed, his eyebrow rising when instead of meeting white tipped blue hair and bright violet eyes he found red hair and worried red eyes. His disappointment quickly gave way to wariness, the Seraph's distressed expression alerting Sorey.

"Mason? Wha-"

He started to inquire only to be interrupted when Mason grabbed his arm and made a shushing motion with a finger to his lips. Sorey had no time to question the Seraph's behavior further because he promptly started to drag him out of his house, making him nearly stumble on his front steps.

"Something breached Zenrus’s barrier," Mason hurriedly whispered, "Everyone is gathering at the gates."

Lying wasn't in seraphim nature, though Sorey could hardly believe what he just heard. The village of Elysia was a refuge of seraphim that choose to stay hidden from human's eyes under a powerful magical barrier that the elder Zenrus, Sorey's and Mikleo grandfather, had set up long before he took them in. In his seventeen years of life Sorey had never seen a living creature cross the barrier uninvited. This could only mean a great danger to Elysia.

"Wh-What? How ?"

Mason shook his head to tell him he had no clues either, "The barrier was working fine yesterday when Kyme and Shiron checked it."

And such a thing was bound to happen one of the few times when Gramps was absent from the village to attend an annual gathering of Seraphim Chiefs. In his absence, it was normal for his barrier to lose power, but so far the other seraphim had been able to maintain it. Sorey preferred to ignore the part of his mind that reminded him that Gramp's trip had taken an unusually long time.

In no way were Mason's words enough to answer Sorey’s interrogations, and he chooses to hide his concern, seeing how Mason gripped his sleeve showed him he wasn't the only one in this condition. Sorey won't doubt that other villagers were frantic. He could only show patience and wait to join them to start understanding what was happening.

Although he was expecting it, Sorey was still struck by the general tension in the group of villagers whom were waiting for him in front of the sculpted gate that marked Elysia's entrance. They seemed to be all here, the entire village gathered by the gates. Bits of conversations reached him as the seraphim cast worried glances toward the edge of the forest marked with an identical gate. Sorey wondered if from where they stood they could see what had crossed gramps barrier.

All eyes turned to them when he and Mason came out of the houses to meet the group. The seraphim formed a wide circle around Sorey. Briefly, Sorey met Mikleo's disapproving look, his arms crossed over his chest and lips pulled into a line. His heart clenched, hoping this expression wasn't directed at him.

"Sorey," the seraph Kyme called him while other seraphim echoed his name as if relieved to see him.

"A human woman came out of Aroundight forest." He began.

Sorey tried to open his mouth in order to express his astonishment, but Medea's hand replaced Mason's on his sleeve, gripping his upper arm. He shivered because of the freshness of the morning, regretting not having taken the time to put on something more than his blue shirt. Medea's eyes peered at him from under her round cheeks, gaze carrying the weight of what she was about to ask Sorey on the whole village’s behalf.

"You are the only one who can go meet her and make her go back from where she comes from. She mustn't find out that seraphim live here."

Mikleo instantly protested, his voice ringing above the murmurings of the other inhabitants. "We can't just ask him to put himself in danger just because he's human! It's absurd!"

"We don't ask this of Sorey because we like it, Mikleo. It's the best plan we've been able to find in such a short time, and if Sorey refuses we'll accept it and find another solution. " Kyme interjected, trying to reassure Mikleo.

The suggestion was not absurd for Sorey; on the contrary it made sense. He nodded, gratifying the villagers with a confident smile.

"I think it's a good idea," He said, facing Mikleo, "Why don't you gather behind a temporary barrier in Gramps house, to make sure she won't see you? I'll make her believe that the village is abandoned and I’ll walk her back to the forest entrance." He asserted.

The seraphim instantly seemed relieved at his proposal, and that he didn't hold a grudge against them. Some of them acquiesced eagerly, congratulating him on his vivacity of mind and called him brave. All of them praised him except Mikleo.

"She may be dangerous, armed even, and you want to meet her alone?" he narrowed his eyes at Sorey.

Sorey shrugged, "She's a human, not a prickleboar. I think I can manage. Still, if you think I'll need it, why not stay hidden close by and help me with your artes?"

Mikleo's eyes narrowed even more at Sorey but then he huffed and uncrossed his arms. "Fine. But don't talk too much. You can't lie to save your life."

Not knowing if it was a good or bad critique coming from Mikleo, Sorey almost wanted to laugh at that but refrained the urge and contented himself with putting a comforting hand on Mikleo's shoulder. Then he glanced around, making sure everyone understood what they were doing. It was an easy enough plan but in the confusion and urgency of the situation nothing was ever certain.

"Is everyone okay with that?"

The answers came in a disorganized way until Kyme invited the others to follow him and they all headed up to the top of the village toward the chief’s large house. Some offered a last tap of encouragement on Sorey's back. Mikleo stayed behind with Sorey, hiding himself in the shadow cast by the gate pillar as the firsts rays of sun started to warm the grass around them.
Natalie lingered a bit with them. Sorey and Mikleo were the youngest in the village and every villager had a role in raising them so Zenrus wasn't the only one who held them dear. She was proud of seeing them facing adversity together but it didn't prevent her from being concerned. She wished they had found another solution to the problem.

"Be careful, both of you." She said before withdrawing to go hide with the others.

Mikleo hand raked his hair, irritated by Sorey’s lack of preservation instinct. It showed a glance of the golden circlet he always wore and Sorey couldn’t help but think of how well it suited him, delicate looking but sturdy with an intricate design. Beautiful.

"Go, before it's too late." Mikleo tugged at his feathered clip earing in retribution.

Sorey could feel heat rising to his cheek knowing he had been caught staring. But Sorey didn't let the heat reach his brain and gathered. With a nod, he began to cross Elysia’s gate, his steps leading him to the cliff edge pathway and to the edge of the forest.

It was while walking that he began to realize for the first time he was about to meet a real human like him, a woman to be precise, so the others had said. It filled his body with a strange sensation he only knew when ruin exploration became intense and he had found something really interesting. Something else hit him, recognizing that it represented a major change in his life. Because that someone came from the outside world.

The light mist that covered the lower part of the mountain and prevented him from seeing the forest from the height of Elysia began to thin and when Sorey had almost reached the second portal, he saw her.

She wasn't really a woman, rather a girl since she looked not much older than him. Wavy blond hair gathered in a ponytail held by a flower hairband, she wore what could only be armor, white and bordered in a pink. Not that Sorey could really tell because he only had seen one in books and murals, but it had metal bits covering her legs and on her arms so it could only be an armor. However, Sorey couldn't mistake the weapon she held firmly in her hand, a long and heavy looking lance.

Absentmindedly, he fingered the orange-yellow feather strapped to the ceremonial sword at his waist, glad he had attached it there way before starting to fill his travel bag. It was only made of wood but if the girl ever used her weapon to defend herself, he would at least have something to protect himself with. Even if she looked slender and small he knew she was a knight. And judging by the way she took careful steps and looked everywhere, she was completely lost.

"Hello? Are you lost?" He called out to her, coming in sight but staying a good distance away from her lance.

The girl startled, immediately pointing the blade of her lance toward him, "Who are you?" she inquired.

Holding is hand up in and attempt at looking peaceful Sorey stopped a few feet away and showed her a kind smile.

"My name is Sorey," he responded.

The girl’s pale green eyes peered inquiringly at him, still she lowered her lance and planted it on the ground. Holding a hand to her chest, she seemed somewhat relieved.

"You aren't a Seraph." She said, it was more a statement than a question.

Sorey shook his head, remembering Mikleo's word about is inability to lie he still tried to accomplish his mission. He felt bad doing so. This girl didn't look dangerous, and moreover it was obvious she was lost and needed help. But he had promised he would try and drive her away from the village. It didn't mean he was forbidden to be of any help to her.

 "I'm the only one here. You seem lost, maybe I can help you with something?" it sounded lonely, but he only had to think about the fact he was the only human to make it sound believable. 

She seemed taken aback by his statement, she blinked rapidly, "I was-I'm looking for Lord Zenrus, I thought-I," she staggered, her knees suddenly gave way.

"Hey! Hold on." Sorey's body reacted before he could think and he caught the girl in his arms before her body hit the ground.

"Sorry," she breathed, "I think I need some rest." A blush covered her cheeks from how much she felt ashamed her own behavior, "I'm not acting quite knight like." she excused herself as Sorey helped her stand up.

"You know Gramps?" Sorey asked, now registering that she pronounced his surrogate father’s name.

The look she cast at Sorey held some resentment but she was quick to hide it behind a knowing smile. "Is Zenrus your grandpa? I thought you were alone ?"

Scratching his neck, Sorey let out an awkward laugh, "Well, the Seraphim asked me to hide their presence, but it's no use if you already knew about the village." He admitted, "Can you walk up there? You can rest in my home if you want to." He offered to make up for his lie.

He knew Mikleo wouldn't be happy about that, but what else could he do. There was no way he would leave someone to fend for themselves when they could barely stand from how exhausted they were. He couldn't let her go like that now that he saw her nearly faint.

Again she smiled genuinely at his offering. "Thank you so much. I come here unannounced and armed and yet you show me so much kindness. You didn't even ask for my name."

"Should I? You would have already skewered me with that if you were a threat." He nodded at her lance; she still held the weapon firmly in her hand using it to stand.

She hid her quiet laughter behind her hand.

"Come on the village is right after the second gate." He invited her to follow.

Taking a deep breath, she went after him. He fell in step beside her to offer support if she started to feel faint again. They walked up the slope in a compassionate silence not knowing how to start a conversation. It was all new to Sorey, she seemed kind and smart and he would have loved to know her opinion on Elysia gates as they came into sight but he was still pondering over Mikleo’s reaction already feeling the seraph’s wrath because from his point of view, he should have already been able to see he was walking the girl toward Elysia and not back into the forest.

"I was told that this village only housed Seraphim and that they were hiding from the human world." She broke the silence, wondering about Sorey.

"You are not wrong. I'm the only human here. Gramps, Zenrus adopted me along with Mikleo." He conceded.

"I was hoping to meet Zenrus here." She said, looking at her feet.

Sorey could tell she was not telling him everything, but he knew how important his gramps was. For both Seraphim and humans, he was a great lord, one of the remaining seraphim to have witnessed the Dragon campaign. Gramps never talked about it but, he gave the Celestial Record to Sorey and both he and Mikleo knew the legend by heart. Having forgotten to tell the girl that gramps was away on an errand, Sorey felt like he would crush her hope in telling her now, but he had too.

"Actually, gramps isn't home. He left for an annual meeting."

"Really?" she stopped walking, looking at Sorey with sorrowful eyes, "Then I have only one hope left," she sighed looking devastated.

There was no use in trying to relieve her, because Sorey didn't know about what was causing her so much grief but he wanted to try anyway. Mikleo chose this very moment to come out of his hiding stop. Both humans turned toward the seraph that neared them with a sure stride, his violet eyes boring holes into Sorey’s skull. He had his staff in hand and looked ready to fight at the first sign of hostility.

"It's okay Mikleo. She knew it's a Seraph village." Sorey told him.

Mikleo lowered his staff as the girl bowed to him, hanging her lance with some strap on her back

"Lord Seraph." She said reverently.

"I knew she wouldn't buy your lies." Mikleo discreetly said to Sorey between his teeth. Sorey had the decency to look sheepish.

"She needs rest and some food, I invited her to stay in my home."

"I-that's right, I won't be a bother to you seraphim. I would be gone before you know it."

Letting out a long-suffering sigh, Mikleo ignored the part of his mind that burned when he apprehended that a pretty human girl would sleep in Sorey's home. "We aren’t monsters. We don't refuse someone in need. I'll go warn the others." With one last scalding  glance at Sorey he turned back on them and went up the slope toward Zenrus’s house.

Eyes widening as she watched Mikleo's retreating back, the girl bit her lip and twiddled her thumbs, indeed feeling like she was imposing herself on Sorey now. "He seems quite severe." She commented.

"Mikleo? Nah he's just worried." Sorey looked at Mikleo with a fondness that didn't escape the girl. "My home is near, right by the cliff." His attempt at changing subject wasn't unnoticed either.

A smile graced the girl's lips again and she went to cross Elysia’s main gate.

"There you are princess! You gave us a hard time chasing you."

The loud male voice boomed from behind them. The girl gasped and her arm immediately went to reach her lance. Feeling the danger, Sorey too clutched his ceremonial sword before turning to meet the newcomer. Someone had obviously followed the girl and it could only mean one thing, Zenrus’s barrier had fallen, Elysia was left defenseless.

A group of five men, soldiers without a doubt, had crossed the first gate, now standing between him, the girl and the forest. He could choose to flee with her toward the Mabinogio ruins on the left side, but it would leave Elysia’s gate unguarded and Sorey wouldn't allow that.

"General Landon! This isn't Sandora territory, attacking me here would be an act of war." The girl stood tall, her voice sounding self-assured as she stood her ground beside Sorey.

This was the girl who nearly fainted in Sorey's arm few minutes ago. Now she stood with pride in front of heavy armored men that outnumbered her. The general Landon whom she talked to was a bulky and strong looking man, Sorey knew that he was the kind of that man inspired fear in his opponent.

Nevertheless, he wasn't a scrawny boy anymore, hunting for eating and doing chore in the village gave him broad shoulders and a strong body and lots of training with Mikleo had him certain of some of his capacity yet he doubted he would be able to go and fight with those men and not be killed in the process.

But at least he would die trying to protect his home and the villagers.

"If so, princess let's say we torch the place, then there'll be no witness left to tell we made an act of war, right?" Landon said before letting out and ominous laugh.

The princess looked offended, but Sorey felt distraught. Was this man really suggesting slaughter? Gramps wasn't lying when he told them human world wasn't a place for them.

"Please don't, the village has nothing to do with this!" The princess tried to defend.

"I won't allow you!" Sorey shouted, brandishing his ceremonial sword in front of him.

This time, the soldiers laughed along with Landon. "The boy is trying to be a hero in front of the princess. Let the adults talk and move aside, boy. Come with us without making waves, princess and we spare the village."

As Sorey gritted his teeth trying not to respond to the taunting a small girl came from behind the General’s larger frame. Her tight black shorts and small sleeveless vest barely hid her skinny body and pale skin. Her dark hair was stilled into twin tails and framed her girlish features, yet she remained expressionless. Sorey could tell from her violet tips that she was a seraph to just like the Elysians.

"The boy, take him too he might be useful to make her talk." She deadpanned at Landon.

Meeting the girl’s lifeless purple eyes with a disgusted glance, he obeyed and gave his men the order to seize Sorey and the princess. A hand closed around Sorey's biceps but he sidestepped confronting the guy that tried to grab him.

"Don't touch me."

His wooden sword hit the man’s neck hard, making him lose his breath before another one grabbed a fistful of Sorey's hair. Letting out a pained cry, he had no choice but to let himself be guided down onto his knees.

"This one is a feisty one, General." The man who held Sorey's hair said.

"I’m so sorry you're involved in this Sorey. But please, don't resist they are dangerous and they won't hesitate to burn the village to the ground." The princess told him, eyes overcast by her exhaustion.

Even so, Sorey couldn't stay put even if he was allowing those men to capture him. Casting a glance behind him at the village, Sorey looked toward Zenrus's house where all of the seraphim should be safe. When he saw them, he smiled and nodded at Kyme.

He was okay; he would do it for them. He couldn't see Mikleo but he knew the others will prevent him to act stupidly.

 Needing to win some time and turn the soldier's attention away from the commotion in the village, he used his shoulder to shove the man holding him, hitting him right in the crotch. With the man he winded after striking his neck that made two of them down, maybe resistance wasn't futile after all.

Growling as his patience grew thin, Landon went to him, "I don't take pleasure doing, believe me." He told Sorey while the pleased expression he sported told another story as he punched him in the gut.

The princess’ concerned cry reached his ear as he coughed and was left breathless, yet only one name grazed his lips as he lost consciousness. The name of the one he was leaving behind.

"Mik…leo."

The guard took the princess’ lance away from her and she felt like crying watching Sorey be hoisted on Landon’s shoulder like a sack of potatoes. The lively and kind boy that greeted her with smiles and friendly gestures was uncharacteristically still and for a second she feared he was dead. There was nothing she could do anymore. Sorey had been involved because of her and she didn't know how but she would make up for it, she'll do anything in her power to repair her wrong.

Landon could put them to in a cell rot; she would show him she wasn't some damsel in distress. She held her chin up and made sure to hold the General’s glance as she was prompted to advance back toward the forest, she was already planning her escape.

Mikleo wasn't faring so well on his side. Kyme, Shiron and Lawrence had to hold him tight to prevent him to go after Sorey. Struggling between the older seraphim’s arms he couldn't bear to see those men get away with Sorey. The Elysians had betrayed their human child twice today.

"Sorey! Let me go! They are taking him away!" He tried to scream behind Kyme’s hand on his mouth.

"Shh, you heard them. They would have burned the village." Melody tried to reassure him.

Blinking away frustrated tears, Mikleo went still as the soldiers disappeared from his sight, taking his best friend away with them. The three Seraphim released him, confronting the accusation of betrayal he would inevitably throw at them.

"We could have fought them! Sorey is one of us and they took him! You did nothing!"  He screamed at them. "You all… you all…" he breathed out. Calming down slowly.

Without knowing why, Gramps lesson and legends about how seraph turned into wild dragons when they allowed their darker emotions to burn them sounded in his mind. Now he felt guilty after lashing out like that. Now that he had cleared his eyes he could see the seraphims' face. How much they mourned too. It was obvious they too resented Sorey’s sacrifice. Mikleo wasn't the only one who held him dear.

"You saw him, he wanted us not to intervene, and there isn’t anything we could have done. Using our power would turn the humans against us. More would have come, and you know that." Kyme said, not meeting his eyes.

His fist clenching at his side, Mikleo turned his back on them, breathing in and out. He was quick to find his answer for there was only one thing he could do.

"I'm going to go after him."

They already had lost one child, yet the seraphim knew there was no use trying to convince him otherwise. Mikleo and Sorey grew up together, never apart and had planned to be that way for long years to come. He wasn't about to let some humans separate them.

The seraphim exchanged glances, "Zenrus knew Sorey’s curiosity would bring him to the larger world soon enough," Natalie said, the smile in her voice reaching Mikleo's ears. He turned back to supporting eyes. "He was certain you would follow him." she brushed his bangs away from his face.

This was far from the reaction Mikleo expected from them. It was impossible to find a way to respond to that, he felt so loved right now.

"If someone can bring him back in one piece, it's you." Mason gave him a thumbs up.

"We have to make sure both of you have a place to call home and come back to." Melody interjected.

Kyme stepped out in front of the group and put his hands on both Mikleo’s shoulders, "We have a mission to give you if you accept. We need you to find Zenrus and inform him of what happened here."

Mikleo gaped at them, unable to form coherent words from how much his heart felt like exploding. They put so much faith in him. He had trained all those years for this time to come, but it was something else entirely to see his family recognizes his value.

"I won't be a liability."

One after the other they hugged him tightly, he wanted so much for that moment to last but time was short and he didn't know where the soldiers were taking Sorey. Biding his goodbye and receiving benediction in return, Mikleo put his mind at work to ready his journey.

He was glad he and Sorey had planned to go exploring because he already had put on his travel clothes and he knew from how predictable Sorey was that he would already have a travel bag ready.

Frowning at Sorey’s empty house, he grabbed the bag. His eyes stayed on the book carefully laid on the floor next to it. The page it was opened to was one Mikleo could picture and reproduce with his eyes closed, the drawing of the Shepherd who guided the dragoon to war. Snapping the book shut, he shoved it in the bag. Books were unnecessary weight but could he and Sorey really go see the word without the Celestial Record as a companion?

Mind set on his objectives, Mikleo turned to the village one last time before crossing the second gate. The seraphim were supporting him, sending hope and trust toward him. Their smiles and happy waves concealed their sadness and their worry but they were all here for him, they would wait for their return.

He was going to bring Sorey back and together they'll go bring back gramps.

Chapter Text

The dirt pathway was narrow and showed signs of misuse, the trees around it ancients, tall and knobbly. The very air around Mikleo felt like it had been frozen in time, far away from human's activity.

With catching up to the men who took Sorey becoming Mikleo's top priority, contemplating the fact that he had been allowed to leave Elysia's grounds and that it was his first time in the outside world was somewhat of an afterthought. Still, he had to stop a few seconds when he registered that the pathway down had led him to walking on flatter ground, this realization inwardly setting the fact that he was indeed leaving his mountainous home behind.

There was nothing Mikleo could do but bite his lips as a feeling of apprehension washed over him. He shook his head to scatter the dark clouds this kind of thinking brought because going to rescue Sorey, even if he was alone doing it, wasn't and never would be a mistake.

Mikleo promised himself years before this he would protect Sorey no matter what.

The forest had grown denser around him blocking most of the morning light, yet there were patches of sunlight filtering between the trees. It sent beams of light everywhere around him and gave an early feeling to the forest. It smelled different from the mountain top too, different from the patch of woods near the Mabinogio's ruins. The smell here was humid and earthy and Mikleo took a good lungful of it to clear his head, it still smelled like home somehow. Mikleo's world was already changing but it didn't mean as much to him when Sorey wasn't here to discuss this and that with him.

A warm grin found Mikleo's lips when he thought about how they would taste this new world once reunited with his best friend. His impatience to reach him grew in accordance coupled with the fact he started to get anxious about not knowing what those soldiers wanted to do with him. He started to jog as he continued on the path, now wasn't the time to stop and admire the scenery.

The soldiers had left clear tracks behind them but even so knew he would eventually lose them if they were heading to a more populated area. The tracks eventually lead Mikleo into a small clearing and he crouched down to inspect the fresh foot print left in the dirt. Mikleo was a seraph, he needed neither eating nor sleeping, those men did and he was certain he could catch up to them before it was too late.

His brow furrowed when he counted more imprints that the five men and the seraph could have left behind. There were ten maybe twelve different prints, as well as horse's hooves.

They had horses; he should have seen that coming, now Mikleo knew catching up to them won't be as easy. More than that Mikleo's stomach sank when he thought about how much damage they could have done to Elysia, had they chose to attack the village. It was a blessing from Maotelus they didn't.

Shaken by this finding, Mikleo’s jog increased into running on the dirt pathway. He ran until he started to feel the strain on his lungs and legs but he was determinate to gain as much ground as he could. A familiar sensation, much like Sorey’s presence lingered in the forest, dim and fleeting but unmistakably his and it pulled at Mikleo's mind. It was leading him through stray tree branches that kept swatting him and on dangerously unknown grounds.

He nearly fell once, because of a rock jutting out from the road but he promptly forgot the pain in his foot and continued, twin capes flowing on his back like wings. Mikleo couldn't stop now, not when Sorey's presence grew thinner by the second, not when it was getting away from him. He swore to himself that he would make Sorey owe him big time for all his troubles.

And just when he reached a crossroad, the sensation left Mikleo like an ember dying inside his chest. Breathing hard, he was forced to stop because he didn't know; he couldn't know the way the soldiers went. The tracks were splitting on two roads, a third going deeper into the forest. Both tracks seemed fresh and he was lost at what to do now.

One hand clutching at his heaving chest and the other grasping his staff tightly, Mikleo closed his eyes trying to find Sorey again. Any stream, any droplet left on a leaf, every water he could reach, Mikleo tried to call on his element and listen to them. They responded to him, tendrils of light and mana flowing in the world like a current, invisible force slowly caressing Mikleo's extended fingers. But it was no use because Sorey had left the forest and he didn't know which way.

Holding back a whimper and nearly screaming in frustration, Mikleo went to inspect the tracks again. Maybe in his rush he had missed something. Maybe he could still distinguish the track he had been following until then if he looked more closely.

But as he was considering that, Mikleo noticed that the forest had suddenly gone quiet, even the wind had stopped its gentle rustle of leaves. Worried by the unnatural silence, Mikleo straightened up and looked around himself, just before the ground started to shake. The silence was replaced by a deafening roar and the racket a tree made when it fell down as a huge creature came from the forest.

Mikleo eyes went wide in disbelief, his jaw growing slack when the beast stopped in front of him. The creature was crawling, four giant legs supporting its elongated lower body as it navigated in the forest. A single one of its legs was as tall as Elysia’s gate. It possessed a green body shaped like an oversized praying mantis with four giant tusks on each side of its triangular head. Its two forelegs were folded near its torso and Mikleo could tell they were shaped like blades. The beast cocked its head to the side, its bulging beady black eyes staring right at Mikleo.

The growl it emitted quieted down in the few seconds it took to consider the seraph. Few seconds, in which Mikleo didn't dare to move an inch, hoping the creature would just ignore him and go on its way. However, he should have known better because luck had avoided him all day long. Mikleo’s instinct and fast reflex saved his head, his staff swatting the appendage away when the beast clumsily unfolded its foreleg and tried to slash at him with it.

Feeling the water around him respond to his call, he concentrated to cast the fastest arte he could and sent freezing water at the beast's head. Its scream resonated between the trees but Mikleo wasn't about to wait and observe the beast trashing in its anger. He bolted, knowing how stupid it would be to try knocking out that monster alone.

So, once again he ran, this time to save his own life but the beast obviously wanted him as  its next meal and gave chase. In his precipitation to escape from the beast’s claws Mikleo took the largest pathway and he unknowingly eased the monster away.

Not for the first time, he cursed his short legs because he didn't feel like they were putting as much distance between him and the beast as they should. The path was large but clogged with obstacles, boulders fallen from the nearby cliff and holes. Yet Mikleo was somewhat grateful when he stepped into a shallow stream and splashed his white pants, the cooling sensation welcomed while hot blood pumped in his vein, his heart beating wildly in fear and exertion.

It could have also helped in fighting the beast, but Mikleo wasn't ready to test this hypothesis.

Putting his arms in front of him to protect himself as yet another tree was downed by the beast, he refrained his need to scream.

"You're going to pay for this Sorey! Oh you're going to pay!" he yelled to the forest instead.

But then his yell turned into a full scream when the beast pushed a large tree right in front of him, he swiftly rolled down and inwardly praised the Lords when he managed to be on the other side before the tree blocked the path. The beast would be obstructed by this, but he continued to run for a moment before stopping and allowing himself to catch a much needed breath.

"What a monster, I hope the world isn't full of those." He mused breathlessly, pressing a hand to his aching side.

In his mad run to survive, Mikleo forgot how to properly breathe and gave himself a stitch in the side in addition to scratches and tears in his clothes. After only few hours out of Elysia and he was already dirtied, his hair was a mess and his clothes were ruined. Not even after all the times he had fallen into traps in the Mabinogio's ruin he had felt this close to death.

However, Mikleo was certain the beast wouldn't give up on him this easily, so he promptly gathered himself and continued to jog at a less frantic pace. He took the time to be attentive of his surrounding, though and noticed the forest was thinner here; the trees on one side had thinned and instead stood the wall of a cliff. A screech echoed from behind him and it sounded too close for Mikleo taste. A knot forming in his guts, he readied himself for a new run that would eventually lead him further away from Sorey.

He yelped as arms closed firmly around his midsection. Mikleo had been unceremoniously pushed away from the road and into bushes. The person who pushed him had hidden them behind a huge boulder and signed him not to move. They wore dark grey unrevealing clothes and their head behind a hood while an engraved mask covered their face, that in itself was suspicious yet Mikleo had to ask.

"Who are you?"

"Shhh, you want to die or what?" A woman voice, deepened by the mask, whispered at him.

Gulping, Mikleo was reminded why he needed to hold his tongue by the scream the beast let out from the other side of the boulder. Minutes started to stretch when he could do nothing but to look at the small slit the woman's mask had in place of eyes.

The beast frustrated after losing sight of its prey started to hit the cliff with its upper body in anger, pebbles and larger rock fell around them and Mikleo prayed it wouldn't start a landslide. He breathed out in relief when the noise ceased and the beast’s screech retreated into the deeper part of the forest.

That undeniably was a close call.

The woman rose up, seeming sure that the danger had been removed. Mikleo imitated her, starting to open his mouth in order to give his thanks to the stranger.

"Did they really need a dragon to chase the princess?" She asked under her breath, more to herself than to him before he could utter a word.

"That was a dragon?" Mikleo’s thanks turned into questioning before he could stop himself.

"They come in many forms." The woman responded, turning her back to him and looking at the road.

That beast was far from the dragons he knew about. The dragon that seraphim descended from looked more like winged lizards in appearance. Mikleo had read books about other types of dragons but seeing one that wasn't a picture or a mural was something else. His hand rose to hold his chin when he thought back about the woman’s words.

"Wait, you know about the men who were chasing the princess?" he was sure he had heard the soldiers call the blond girl a princess. If so, that woman could give him a good lead on their whereabouts, "They kidnaped my friend along with her." He felt the need to be more precise of his reason.

The woman abruptly turned back to face him "They have her?" She said, suspicion in her voice, "Since when?" she added. Mikleo felt her burning gaze behind her mask.

"Since this morning." He answered with a weary sight.

"Damn it!" she swore, hitting her palm with her closed fist, "They should have reached Hellena prison by now."

Mikleo's blood ran cold at the word prison. He saw that name written in huge letters at the crossroad, the wood on the sign old and rotten, he was sure of it. He couldn't believe the dragon had led him on the right path all along. Moreover he couldn't believe it was maybe too late to save Sorey

His legs were carrying him back on the road before he could stop himself to reflect on his next action. Now Mikleo knows where he had to go. A prison was a cruel place for a kind and lovable boy like Sorey, it was only a matter of time before those men did something to harm his best friend and Mikleo wouldn't allow that.

"Thank you for saving me!" he threw over his shoulder, not turning back to look at the woman.

She watched him run away and shook her head, before an unexpected warmth brought her attention back toward her pocket. The small black stone she took out of her pocket shined a bright light and a quiet sound, almost like a wind harp chant emanated from it.

"That seraph boy…"

A natural rock formation was coming out of the lake bed, forming a huge natural tower surrounded by water. Fumes and the sound of metal against rock originated from it, evidence of the human activity inside.

Hellena prison was like an anthill, a leaning tower with a flat top, swept by wind and currents.

It was so hot inside that Sorey’s throat felt parched. That and the fact that he had woken up hands bound behind his back and mouth gagged atop a horse’s back. The blond girl kept looking at him with sorrowful eyes as they were lead around the prison.

Sorey was shaking when the guard closed the door behind him, ordering them to stay silent. The princess promptly ignored that order as she unfastened his bounds and removed his gag.

"How can I tell you how much I'm sorry you got involved in this?" She told him, her eyes riveted on the dusty floor.

Instead of the accusation and the reproach she was expecting, Sorey gave her a wide smile and shrugged as he was rubbing at his sore wrists.

"You couldn't help it." He said.

"But-" She wanted to retort.

"Look at that! It's just like in the Celestial record. I'm sure this cell is a natural formation too, that's amazing. "He was quick to stop any form of protest.

Sorey seemed to have so much fun looking everywhere around the cell that she didn't have the heart to tell him otherwise anymore. His enthusiasm brought a smile back on her lips as she sat on the single cot the cell had.

The small room was soon filled by Sorey's mutter about his findings and observations while he praised the architectural wonder that was a prison constructed inside a grotto. He seemed to have finished inspecting every corner and was now interested in the small opening that allowed fresh air from outside to somewhat chill the stuffy air. It was placed too high for him to try looking through it and the hole was too small to properly light the room but it didn't stop Sorey from looking at it like it was carved on marble. They had been given a small oil lamp to compensate for the lack of natural light but the princess disliked the shadows it cast against the wall.

"My name is Alisha Diphda." She said, putting her joined hands atop her knees.

Sorey finally stopped mumbling and Alisha regretted that her intervention had plunged the cell in silence again.

"Nice to meet you, Alisha." Sorey said as he sat on the ground beside her.

Inhaling a deep breath, Alisha looked up from her hands and finally met Sorey's eyes. The green in them was as clear and vibrant as the first time she looked into them. In no way was he holding a grudge against her. This young man had been forcibly removed from his town, his family threatened, he was beat and bound and here he was, still smiling and looking at the prison wall like they were a marvel. She wished she could be as strong as him.

"How can you not be worried about all this?" She asked.

Scratching his neck, Sorey looked like he was really trying to find the right words to answer. "I'm not sure. Maybe when they'll start torturing me I will." He joked.

Judging by the way Alisha looked at him like he just kicked her puppy, she didn't feel like joking. So, he shrugged, "Gramps told me there weren't many seraphim who lived with humans anymore so I guess you are not used to feeling their presence."

Brow furrowing in thought, Alisha looked at Sorey quizzically. "The only seraph I ever saw before was Grand Seraph Uno, the guardian of Bale's water shrine." She comforted his impression.

He nodded then, "I can feel Mikleo coming toward here," he reassured her. Discreetly, he fetched something on the pouch attached to his belt, and then he started to speak in a low voice, "Plus they forgot to inspect me. A good explorer had to always be prepared.  I'm just waiting for the right moment." He winked.

This time, Alisha’s smile reached her eyes and she had to hide her mouth behind her hand to stifle her chuckle as she looked at Sorey's lock-pick. His mood was contagious and she too started to feel the danger ease.

"So, you have read the Celestial Record? Me too, that's was my favorite book when I was a child!" she started.

Sorey's eyes shone like the sun and her worry eased to a dull buzzing in her heart.

Hellena's prison wasn't something Mikleo could miss. The tower was huge and he had seen it from far away, furthermore the only other human he met coming from there were other soldiers. He was worried that he only overheard discussion about incoming war and about workers complaining about increase of activity. The kind of activity they were talking about escaped him, though.

Stars were starting to light the sky as he finally reached the base of the tower, the sun setting right behind it cloaking the dark tower in an orange-red glow. How he would infiltrate that tower was something he forgot to plan.

The only road had long turned into a narrow path by the lake shore. Mikleo’s heart had started to sing with being near so much of his element, but here it dropped the further he come close to the tower. The water here had turned murky, dark from pollution and smelled foul from whatever the humans threw in the lake. The few trees boarding the road were dead if not broken. He had to close his senses in order to concentrate only on Sorey, the embers inside him starting to burn anew with his best friend’s proximity.

Best friend. The word tasted sour on Mikleo's tongue because Sorey had been more than that since long ago. With nothing else to do but walk on bared land Mikleo started to think and a thought he had been carefully avoiding for years resurfaced. Coming this close to losing Sorey made him realize it was maybe time to acknowledge his true feelings. But what if Sorey didn't feel the same? Mikleo saw how he looked after the blond girl, and he saw how she responded to Sorey because he had that bad habit of enchanting everyone.

There was a huge chance she had been imprisoned with Sorey, if not taking Sorey with her would have been meaningless, yet as Mikleo avoided thinking about her he knew he was going to eventually save her along with Sorey and be the one encouraging romance between them.

To be honest he knew it was more likely like Sorey would choose the girl over him if she made a move. After all she was a human just like he was. Even if he would be happy for Sorey it didn’t mean it wouldn't break Mikleo.

A horse neigh broke his thinking, and he eventually raised his eyes away from his shoes. The noise from hooves and wheels behind him gave him an idea. He quickly hid behind a naked tree as the wagon crossed by. The driver was a young looking man wearing a blue sleeveless vest, his orange hair under a white-grey hat. The young man was humming a tune on his way down the narrow road. He was a merchant and it was more than Mikleo could hope for.

It was like trying to sneak into Sorey's home at night after Gramps had them grounded, crouching beside the wagon and hiding himself from view and matching it's slow pace as they approached the prison entrance was the wittiest thing he had done today.

Mikleo half listened to the conversation the merchant started with the gate keeper about good deals and increase in demand lately. But when the merchant bluntly asked why the gate keeper started to get defensive, Mikleo feared he would be found out. Well, it looked like luck was finally on his side because as the keeper went into inspecting the wagon, the merchant started to speak more gently and eased the keeper’s suspicion with smooth talk and a smile. A true professional.

Mikleo didn't waste time and as the gate keeper ordered the gate to be opened he snuck into the covered wagon as quietly as he could, gently putting back the flaps behind him. That was the easiest part, now only sheer luck could help him.

The wagon moved and Mikleo put a hand against his mouth to stifle the noise his breathing made, sitting down and folding his legs against his torso to take up as little space as possible.

 He counted the seconds while different noises resonated around him and replaced the drum of his hammering heart in his ears. Different voices filled the space, tools hitting against rock and fire crackling were the most distinguishable. The wagons gentle rocking motion was like a pendulum counting the seconds before Mikleo's eventual demise. The guards won't be gentle with him if he were to be spotted.

The wagon suddenly bumped, making Mikleo lose his balance. In his ungraceful fall, Mikleo knocked over a pot which crashed noisily against the cart floor. Holding his breath as muffled voices sounded around him and Mikleo braced himself, his staff ready to defend his life.

The following silence felt like eternity.

"It's safe, you can come out now."

The voice that came from the back of the wagon behind the coverings flaps was gentle and inviting but Mikleo wouldn't let himself be fooled and he tried to blend in the wagon’s shadows.

"Would you really think I would have held the gate keeper’s attention away if I wanted you to be found out?" the voice sighed.

Now that he thought about it, Mikleo's renewed luck wasn't entirely due to the gate keeper slacking on his guard duty. The man had been about to inspect the wagon and even had started to, had he turned the right way and Mikleo wouldn't have entered the prison freely. Carefully holding his staff against his chest, the seraph gently lifted the flaps.

Sharp almond green eyes and a calm smile greeted him. Mikleo never left the merchant’s gaze as he stepped out of the wagon.

"Should I thank you then?" He tried still not deciding if the young man was friend or foe.

"You want to? You are the first person I’ve met wanting to intentionally get into this prison and that’s not something you should thank me for." The merchant scoffed.

Though mildly offended by the merchant’s tone, Mikleo had to acknowledge that his attitude could appear quite bizarre. This merchant was the second human to help him today, maybe humans weren't all so bad and maybe being nice to him wouldn't hurt Mikleo.

Mikleo tilted his head in a half nod, "Thank you then, you don't know how much you helped me."

The merchant held his hand toward him, "I'm Talfryn, it's an honor to help you lord seraph." He said, and as Mikleo kept staring blankly at his extended hand he retracted it awkwardly, "Right, huh. I suppose seraphim don't shake hands."

"Why don't you denounce me?" Mikleo ventured to ask as he stepped aside from the cart.

Mikleo glanced around. The wagon had stopped inside of a storehouse the ceiling was high and curved the walls smooth and earthy-brown. The Prison structure had been built inside a natural grotto. The weight of the Celestial Record in his bag reminded Mikleo that he had read about this place before, though it wasn't a prison back when the book's author visited it. Human's wars changed everything.

"Why would I? You look like you have your reason to be here and you don't interfere with my business." Talfryn answered him, attaching the wagon flaps to the side and opening the way to his merchandise, "Though my boss would kill me if she learned I didn't charge you for the trip." He mumbled the end.

The young man carrying a heavy looking crate alone was impressive, yet Mikleo had to concentrate on his rescuing mission. Even though now that he could make a mental map of the place from what had been written in the Celestial Record, Mikleo didn't know how much had been changed by human hands. The storehouse had three doors, one from which they came from, one Mikleo was facing and another behind him.

"I enjoyed talking with you Mr.Talfryn but I must go on my way." Mikleo excused himself as he selected which way to try first.

"I wouldn't want to go that way if I were you," Talfryn never looked up from his work, "This way is the guards dormitories and break room," He nodded at the door at the back, the one Mikleo had dismissed "The other way on the other end leads to the stables and from there it's easier to access the cells area on the top floors. Be careful, even though the guards on this floor are easy to fool, the security had been tightened lately. "

"You are one weird human, Mr.Talfryn." Mikleo had to say, how the merchant’s guesses about his objectives could be this accurate was beyond him.

"Says the one trying to sneak into a prison." This time Talfryn laughed at him and Mikleo couldn't help but to smile back.

Talfryn wasn't lying. Mikleo barely met any guards on the first floors for the paths had rather been labyrinthine until Mikleo came closer to what should have been the rock formation middle, then everything had been only bridges and pits so deep he couldn't see the end of them. Now he knew were the fumes he saw from the exterior came from since he had the proof the rock plunged deep into the earth crust and even if it wasn't a volcanic formation, heat and vapor emanated from deep down. That’s why it felt so hot in there.

There was mining and building going on down there because here the metal tools noise where stronger. Everyone seemed so busy that Mikleo didn't bother to hide in every shadow anymore. It was nearly impossible to tell what was natural and what was human made because it was all blending so well into a rough if not somewhat ugly looking prison. Sorey would be amazed by Mikleo's finding.

When he reached the upper level, still astonished by the human inventions called lifts the workers used to go up faster avoiding lots of staircases and ladders, Mikleo really felt the change in the guard motions. Often he had to hide in corners and sneak behind alerted guards making their rounds in narrow corridors.  It was a wonder he hadn't been found out yet.

Thinking about how luck seemed on his side now, Mikleo reached an area where two pathways were separated by another pit, lights and worker voices coming from it. The wall on both sides had doors made of metal bars, telling Mikleo he had finally reached the cell's floor.

Barely was he given the time to rejoice as his back abruptly straightened his heart missing a beat when he heard someone yelling.

"The spy broke out of his cell!"

Fortunately, the scream came from in front of him so Mikleo had time to hide behind a crate when reinforcement came to help bring back the unfortunate spy to his cell.

"Do you really think that would stop me?"

The spy was closer to Mikleo than he first thought, a few feet further away into the area maybe. The man’s deep voice rang in the narrow corridors and Mikleo felt the characteristic taste of mana in the air. The guards horrified screams and the man’s taunting laugh helped Mikleo guess the spy was indeed a seraph

 Mikleo’s curiosity pulled hard at him and he attempted a cautious glance at the fight.

The seraph was tall, adorned in tight black pants and a vest with a green shirt under and a strange looking top hat covering his head over shoulder length light green tipped silver hair. He moved swiftly, two pendulums hanging from glove covered fingers. Two of the four guards that tried to corner him where already down but even so, his tightened jaw and tense shoulders were a telltale about how much he was struggling to navigate.

Considering how the tower was made of so many holes and infinite depth, Mikleo was certain it would make a wind seraph such as that guy’s progression difficult.

Acting on impulse, Mikleo realized he had moved out of his hiding place only when his staff made a massive dent on the closest guard’s helmet. As the guard unceremoniously fell down after Mikleo had whacked him on the head, the wind seraph turned toward him in astonishment, eyes hidden behind hat and hair.

"You looked like you needed some help." Mikleo said, voice slightly panicked.

Growling low at Mikleo the wind seraph’s arm rose, guiding his pendulum in precise movement until its string coiled around the last guard’s lance and broke it in half.

"Don't need it, but thanks."

Chapter Text

Mikleo's moment of panic gave way to more rational thinking when he started to consider his situation. Instinct had taken the better out of Mikleo, he who usually was cautious and mindful of his actions had acted on impulse and now it was too late to regret it. It was usually Sorey's habit to act before thinking and Mikleo would have been the first to reprehend him for that, now he could only feel ashamed of himself as the wind seraph faced him.

Seraph or not, for all he knew he could have been a dangerous criminal.

Yet, there was something Mikleo had seen in this prison, things he heard. The prisoners here were made to work in the mine; most of the cells were empty at that time of the day. The wardens were ruthless and many times he had closed his eyes and flinched in empathy for those he could hear scream or cry in the dark. It only pained him more that he could do nothing more for them alone. It made Mikleo think that no one, criminal or not deserved to be imprisoned here. Maybe that was what led his hand.

"Yo-you'll never make it out of here alive!" the guard exclaimed, shaking.

Worried about the wind seraph, Mikleo completely forgot there was one of them still standing. The man was weaponless and trembled in fear, but they couldn't take the risk to let him go fetch more reinforcement.

The wind seraph and Mikleo shared a glance and while the seraph clicked his tongue and readied his pendulums, the end of Mikleo’s staff was already striking the guard's guts. Then Mikleo gracefully turned on himself and bent his arm to make the staff turn with his movement, gathering momentum before hitting the guard’s head hard enough to send him crashing on a cell door.

Mikleo cringed as he felt the impact on his staff vibrate until it reached his hands. He looked at the man he had caused to fall and bit his lips from how much he felt bad at hitting a human. This was nothing like hunting prickleboar or sparring with Sorey, this felt too real. A resigned sigh came through his nose when he felt the man’s blood flow inside of him, at least he was alive but Mikleo knew it won't be the last time he would have to hurt someone.

A change of pressure and a shifting in the winds reminded Mikleo of his position. He would have all the time to think back about hurting enemies when he would have taken Sorey and the princess out of this place. He turned back toward the wind seraph, his eyes narrowing when he saw he still was assuming a battle stance, pendulum oscillating near Mikleo in intimidation.

"Who are you?" The wind seraph said his voice low and menacing.

Even if he seemed strong and was two heads taller than Mikleo, he wasn't about to be threatened by someone he had wanted to help. Mikleo bent his knee, holding his staff in front of him and ready to respond to any kind of attacks.

"I'm Mikleo. I'm not your enemy." Mikleo responded, glaring at the other seraph.

"Get down, there is another behind you."

Mikleo’s eyes widened but he obeyed nonetheless, ducking as the seraph’s pendulum flew over his head. He heard the guard gurgle from behind and then saw as the pendulum string knocked the guard against the cell bar right beside the one Mikleo had whacked.

The wind seraph absentmindedly touched his hat as he most likely considered is next option. Mikleo's lips jutted out slightly when he thought about the fact he should have been the one acting like this.

Crossing his arms, he turned back toward Mikleo, "Dezel," the wind seraph said as he suddenly strode further along the corridor, gesturing at Mikleo to entice him to follow. "Come on, others will come if we stop to talk here."

"Is that your name-Hey wait!" Mikleo started to canter behind to follow before Dezel's long stride took him too far away, "You can't just leave a conversation like that!" he tried to protest.

"The guard was right. You won't be making it out of here alive." Was Dezel’s only response before he pushed Mikleo in a room and closed the heavy wooden door behind them.

Reclaiming his arm and holding it close against his chest, Mikleo started to open his mouth to voice his discontentment at being handled like this when ruckus sounded from the other side of the door. Imitating Dezel, Mikleo went to hide behind a crate and a barrel full of confiscated weapons.

He heard someone call after they found the unconscious guards and someone else order they search back toward the central area. Boots echoed on the corridors and as the noise started to be more distant, Mikleo finally allowed himself to relax. As much as relaxed he could be in this hellish prison.

"So, could I ask what a wind seraph is doing in this hellhole?" if they were to be stuck here for a while, Mikleo wanted to start a conversation.

"None of your business."

Narrowing his eyes at Dezel's response, Mikleo crossed his arms over his chest. There was nothing he could do if the other refused to talk. Few wind seraphim lived in Elysia because they were the adventurous kind and the whole world was their home, but the few Mikleo knew were nicer and liked to talk.

Mikleo was an eighteen year old seraph and was considered a baby in seraphim's years yet he had never been alone more than a few hours in life. With having been forced away from Sorey and his family for an entire day and most of the night Mikleo wanted to be rid of that loneliness. Talking with someone would have helped. After a few minutes of staring at the wall, Dezel turned toward Mikleo.

"And could I know what a water seraph is doing here all alone?" He asked.

Itching to throw Dezel's words back at him Mikleo held back on that since he could admit that they were stuck together and they needed to get along if they wanted to make it out in one piece. Still he didn't know if he could trust Dezel just yet. Fingers drumming on his arm in thought, Mikleo chose his words as he answered.

"I'm here to rescue someone."

Dezel's grin showed sharp and pointy teeth, Mikleo almost startled at the sight. He didn't know what was more unsettling, the grin or the shark like teeth. Even if having shark teeth was rather uncommon, Mikleo could at least grant to Dezel that his grin had some warmth in it. Now Mikleo was starting to think he made the right choice in helping Dezel.

"Fair enough," Dezel told him while starting to move back toward the door. He stood by it, holding his hat as gentle winds ruffled his hair. One of them caressed Mikleo’s cheek and he felt like he could breathe better in the stuffed storage room, "This place has so many holes and crevasses that I have trouble reading winds. I need you to be my eyes."

His voice was so low that Mikleo had to ponder the words to make sure he had heard them properly.

"Why should I help you?" Mikleo was reluctant to help a potential criminal, and Dezel had showed him he was more than capable to take care of himself. There was something wrong with this place though and Dezel seemed to know more than him. "I had no trouble sneaking in by myself. I think I'll manage my way out after rescuing my friends, thank you."

"Getting in a prison is always easier than getting out." That shit eating grin again, now Mikleo was sure Dezel was making fun of him. "I can read the winds to find your friends faster, if they are on this floor. I'll help you rescue them."

That changed everything. Even though it was difficult to guess the time without any visibility to the outside sky, Mikleo was certain he had spent most of the night wandering in those interminable tunnels. He was getting tired and impatient, and it was so hot in hear he kept sweating nonstop, as a water seraph he felt like he was about to evaporate. Dezel’s offer would help him more than he was willing to admit.

"Fine, it's a deal." Mikleo made sure his eagerness to end this as soon as possible wasn't too obvious as he extended his hand.

Without a word, Dezel shook his hand sealing their agreement.

Mikleo went to the door, listening through the woods to make sure the way was clear. Dezel stayed where he was, staring at the door.

 "Where should we head first?" Mikleo asked, trying to bring the seraph’s attention back to him.

"Describe your friends." Dezel said.

Right, Dezel wasn't a seer; he could obviously not tell Sorey apart from the other prisoners.

"They are a human boy and a girl, should have been brought here earlier today. The boy is-"

The description ended after Dezel clicked his tongue in annoyance while Mikleo's fingers gripped his staff because he had to restrain himself and not lashing out at the other seraph's rudeness.

"Can they fight?" Dezel said, ignoring the vibe of annoyance emanating from Mikleo.

Something started to click inside Mikleo's mind, now he started to see were Dezel was getting at, what the winds must have told him. "Are they under tight security? I mean, Sorey can fight, though he isn't as good as me, but I can't tell for the girl. "

To Mikleo’s utter astonishment, Dezel patted the top of his head as he told him, "You're one smart little seraph." And quickly withdrew his hand. "Now follow me, the VIP area his after the great bridge."

With the self-confidence Dezel showed, Mikleo followed him without much protest. With Dezel wind reading they avoided most of the guards searching the area for them. When they couldn't find a way to bypass them, Dezel was quick to find a dark corner to hide in. Mikleo had to wonder why he requested his help when wandering the prison seemed so easy to him, though now he was glad he had accepted because they managed to go back to the open central area in mere minutes.

Dezel had seemed more aware of Mikleo’s presence beside him, making his strides slower and waiting for the smaller seraph. Though he didn't talk much he used signs to make Mikleo know of his intention. It was only a matter of getting used to Dezel's way of functioning before they could make a team. For now, it was enough.

Until they reached the great bridge, because there the guards had heavier looking equipment, something neither Mikleo's staff nor Dezel's pendulums could bend in one strike.

Holding his hand up as he crouched near the prison’s largest pit behind some brick railing, Dezel forced Mikleo away from the guard's sight, "Something is coming from the other side." He told Mikleo urgently.

Frowning at that statement, Mikleo chanced a quick glance. The area was well lit, and although the other side was a bit far, Mikleo could see that the three guards patrolling in front of the door acted normally.

"I don't see anything. Are you sure the pit isn't altering your reading?"

For an answer Dezel shook his head, and then as Mikleo glanced again just to make sure, he missed Dezel’s change of expression. However, he couldn't miss the heavy looking door fly open, knocking one of the guards to the wall. Two people came out of the open door, soon engaging the remaining guards in a fight. Few noises reached Mikleo’s ear but his eyes didn't fail him because he could recognize that mop of brown hair anywhere.

Nearly leaping out of his hiding place, Mikleo was already half-way on the rope bridge when he heard Dezel call him back. It never crossed his mind as he held his staff before him that it was better to observe before rushing. Sorey needed him, that’s what was most important.

The humid air around Mikleo offered the right weapon to him and the arte he chose to use was as easy as breathing, polished and mastered since childhood yet powerful and deadly.

"Twin flow!"

Twin torrents of water seemingly came out from his staff end, intertwining and flying at a fast pace the arte hit the unsuspecting guard’s side and launched him back against the wall. The man slid against the stone then slumped on the ground like a broken puppet.

"Mikleo!" Sorey was so happy to see him he nearly forgot he was crossing blades with the other guard.

The last guard threw insult at Mikleo who had joined his companions in close combat. With her adversary downed, Alisha joined Mikleo and Sorey. It took only a few moves to have the man cornered his back against the pit.

 Alisha had managed to retrieve her lance and she was showing the guard how she used it and before he could retaliate, the guard had the blade end against his throat.

"Do you yield?" she asked her gaze hard and authoritarian.

"And have the general feed me to his pet? Never." The man answered.

Mikleo gripped his staff, preparing to whack the man’s head like he had done before. No one expected the guard to throw away his life as he let himself fall in the pit behind him. He didn't even scream the only sounds being Sorey's protest and Alisha's lance clattering on the ground where she dropped it trying to catch the man.

Sorey bit his lips, casting his gaze away from the pit edge. Alisha addressed a prayer to the abyss and picked up her weapon.

"Why are all Sandorian like this…?" she muttered, sorry for her enemy.

Allowing themselves a few seconds to mourn over the man's death, the three shared a solemn silence. Sorey was the first to break, taking a deep breath he stepped in front of Mikleo, arm outstretched between them.

"I knew you would come, Mikleo." He smiled, but Mikleo could see that his smile had yet to reach his eyes.

Raising his arm to meet Sorey's he bumped their wrist together, "Right, like you could get out of here without me." Mikleo responded with unveiled affection.

Putting his hand on his hips and puffing out his chest, Sorey begged to differ, "Well we broke out of our cell and fought our way out without your help, thank you very much."

Mikleo’s hand was already preparing to jab Sorey's ribs when Sorey's expression became more serious, he breathed deeply.

"Did they burn the village?" He asked, his fingers caressing his feathered earing.

Shaking his head slowly, Mikleo came closer to Sorey, "Fortunately you were a good enough distraction."

He was about to bump their shoulders needing to bring back a true smile on Sorey's lips when Dezel's voice came from behind him.

"I don't want to interrupt your romantic moment, guys, but we are in the open here and they won't stop chasing us so soon." He told them, looking back at the tight security area gate.

Sorey's wooden sword and Alisha's lance were immediately pointed toward Dezel but Mikleo was quick to hold his hands up in peace before things could worsen.

"That's Dezel. He is on our side." Mikleo couldn't just tell them he had helped a potential criminal. Plus, he had learned to trust Dezel by now, "He helped me find you two."

"Wow, there truly are wind seraphim traveling the world." Sorey’s eyes widened in awe, taking in Dezel’s rather exotic appearance, "Nice to meet you, Dezel."

Chuckling quietly at Sorey's enthusiasm, Alisha was more revered in her greeting, she tipped her head at Dezel while lowering here lance. "It's an honor, lord seraph."

Dezel sighed as he touched his hat. "I'm no lord, call me Dezel."

"Do you see that Mikleo! This prison is amazing. Do you think humans dug everything or the caves are natural?" Sorey looked around him, he was happy to finally have Mikleo to talk about all these wonders.

Touching his lips in thought, Mikleo followed Sorey's eyes, "Well, some of those tunnels are too small and we can't see how far the pit goes but heat from the earth ascends and I can feel the lake top far away below us-"

Both boys exchanged a heated conversation about Hellena prison's structure and nature, their voice making a background noise as Dezel crossed his arms.

"Did they hear what I just said?" he asked Alisha.

The princess shrugged and smiled. "Sorey can get a little fired up about ruins and such." She only now learned that Mikleo was the same.

Clicking his tongue in annoyance, Dezel’s voice rose to be heard, "Minitos dug most of those mines, humans took over when they left. They use prisoner labor to dig copper. Now can we move out of here before more guards find us?" He told them.

They looked at him incredulously, and then they looked at each other, "How did you know?" Sorey asked.

"I’ll tell you if we make it out alive." He turned away from them.

"He is right we should hurry. General Landon is known to be cruel and ruthless. He won't let us go like that." Alisha supported Dezel.

"I snuck in by the stable. There are barely any guards patrolling so far away from the cells. I should be able to find my way back." Mikleo said.

They followed Mikleo as he led them back toward the lower floors. Dezel helped them avoid most of the patrol. Words of them breaking out had the guards on edge and more of them searched for the wandering prisoners.

When it took Mikleo hours to sneak his way up, making their way down felt way easier. Even if three people were harder to hide than one, with Dezel's wind reading and Sorey's good sense of direction the time was reduced in half.

Sorey's enthrallment when he discovered the lifts was expected by Mikleo, yet Dezel had to intervene to stop him from using the contraption more than twice. The pout Sorey sported had Dezel spluttering when he chastised him. Mikleo trust in the wind seraph increased then, finding him to be nice didn't seem improbable now.

Despite his initial guardedness concerning Alisha, Mikleo was starting to appreciate her quality too. All the way down she showed patience and gave good advice. She talked Sorey out of dangerous situations more than once and protected him when fighting was unavoidable. Even though she was the only one carrying a lethal weapon, she was careful and avoided wounds that would eventually kill.

She was a girl Sorey could like. And he had to admit it was nice that Sorey had another human to share human things with. Nonetheless, Mikleo knew he would stay with Sorey as long as he still wanted him by his side even if his heart clenched every time Sorey smiled at Alisha.

Finally, as they came closer to the lake surface Mikleo felt a sense of relief flood him. The stables were nearby; he could tell they had only one corridor to go through before getting to them. The air around here smelled more strongly of manure, hay and horse sweat.

As soon as they closed the stable gate behind them, Dezel and Alisha came to the loosebox carved on the wall. The horses were a bit frightened by their urgency but Dezel showed a new skill as he smoothed his hand along the horse’s mane, quieting the animal’s fussing.

Sorey was watching attentively, he seemed reluctant to come closer to the horse. He and Mikleo shared a glance again; Sorey itching to hold Mikleo against him and make sure those beasts wouldn't rear and strike him.

"Take a horse, guards are coming our way. There are huge chances they are blocking our way out." Alisha told them as she was securing a saddle on the horse back.

"We don't know how to ride. This is our first time with a real horse." Sorey admitted, fiddling with his shirt button in slight embarrassment.

Mikleo elbowed Sorey as he came near a loosebox, "Couldn't be that hard. I'm not afraid." Still he took a step back and yelped when the horse kicked the wall, feeling his apprehension.

"We don't have the time. Let's make the weight even. Mikleo you come with me, Sorey you ride with Alisha. "

No one wanted to discuss Dezel's suggestion as he held his hand for Mikleo to take already mounted on his horse’s back. Alisha helped Sorey, feet in the stirrup and came to sit before him, holding the horse rein. Mikleo refrained to make any comment but seethed when Dezel secured him in front of him encasing his smaller frame with his arm.

Feeling Mikleo's silent protest Dezel chose to justify his action. "It's because you are short, it's easier to make sure you don't fall off."

With Sorey’s laugh filling the stable, Mikleo was sure it was more a matter of teasing him. He seriously considered revising his opinion on Dezel as he gripped the horse’s mane and settled on the saddle Dezel picked.

"We are ready." Alisha's voice managed to help Mikleo focus on the current situation.

"I take the lead, stay as close as you can." Dezel instructed her.

Alisha nodded and hummed her consent, already trusting the seraph after they fought together. Dezel barely grunted as a warning when he suddenly stirred his and Mikleo's horse, the mount rushing right toward the closed gates. Fearing for his life the second the horse started to gather speed, all of Mikleo’s thoughts flew out when the gates burst open, falling broken from the small tornado that took them apart.

He barely heard Dezel mutter a wind arte, but he heard his breath shudder as Dezel drew on his last resource of mana. Now that he thought about it, Mikleo didn't know how long Dezel had been kept here and how long he had been using his artes to protect them all. There was no way he wouldn't feel indebted to Dezel now.

Their horse started to gallop when the gates opened to a large pathway. It was a tunnel with a very high ceiling, wall walks railing and bridges lining the walls as guards patrolled over the hallway from their higher point of view. Cries and warning of their escapes resonated against the high ceiling, order to raise the drawbridge reached Mikleo's ears.

A low curse escaped from Dezel's mouth telling Mikleo that he too had forgot about that particular point.

"We won't make it!" Alisha shared her worry

"We will if we go faster!" Dezel responded.

The only thing Mikleo was capable of right now was clutching at the horse’s mane like it was a life line. He gulped, trying to appease his sinking stomach, taking a glance at the agitated guards desperately trying to find a way to stop their escape. A few started to throw javelins at them, but the weapons were too heavy to go far. That was when the archers came; drawing deadly arrows at them that Mikleo opened his mouth to warn the group about.

The warning came out as an incoherent scream when the horses impossibly gained in speed again, their gait as light as feathers. Mikleo could only watch in astonishment when the flowing arrows fell limply on the ground without ever approaching them when they didn't go backward altogether.

Just when he thought Dezel was exhausted, the wind seraph had surprised Mikleo again, using wind to shield them and lighten their mount's steps. Dezel was really powerful and Mikleo was astounded. Was everyone living outside Elysia this strong?

A stray thought crossed Mikleo's mind, making him ask himself if one day he could be this strong to protect Sorey.

However, that thought was quickly forgotten when sunlight stung Mikleo's eyes, coming from the large opening in front of them, the main gate left open.

A merchant wagon lay unmoving with a broken wheel on the side, blocking the portcullis that should have been down by now. Mikleo swore he had seen Talfryn gave him a knowing smile as they passed by him at full speed, nonetheless he had never felt this happy to see the rising sun.

The commotion dulled somehow after they left the prison's main gate behind, most of the unoccupied guard and soldiers giving chase after them.

A young seraph girl sat on a bridge crossing over the hall, feet dangling as she faced the inside of the prison. A smile graced her thin pale lips as she watched Landon yell and insult his men, ordering them to kill the boys and bring the princess back.

She knew they had been a bunch of incompetents all along and that’s why she had a better back up plan. Now if only this stupid assassin could play his part well, everything would be according to her master's wish.

Standing up from her position she let out a sigh, dusting off her shorts. Now she had some better place to be. Good riddance to this stinky prison and those useless men.

 The morning sun had completely risen when they stopped near a prairie, a crossroad before them, their horses neighing and breathing hard in protestation. It was Alisha's idea to send the tired horses in another direction, giving a false track for the prison's guard following them. Sorey quietly watched as the silent Dezel gave his goodbye to their four legged friends. His serene looking face as he caressed them felt like a breath of fresh air after what they went through.

"You shouldn't sit here. There are Vampire Kiwi in the tall grass." Dezel warned.

Startled out of his observation, Sorey abruptly rose from the flat rock he was sitting on. He watched the tall grass behind him, searching for sign of those little pests presence. A hand on his shoulder, Mikleo prompted him to walk back on the steep pathway opposite from the one they chose to send the horses off.

"We can't stand in the open, they are still after us." Mikleo said, his hand gripping his forearm as he felt his skin react to the presence of a furious body of water, "I can feel a stream further that way. Maybe if we cross it they will definitely lose our track." He proposed.

As per mutual agreement, the group followed Mikleo's advice and continued further down the road until they reached the small stream. However what Mikleo had failed to notice was that the stream had actually been swelled up by days of continuous rain and the stream was in fact a torrent with a current so strong that even the horse would have had difficulty to cross it.

A collective exhausted sigh elevated from the group.

"It's too strong, and it's too far to jump over." Sorey voiced everyone’s concern.

As those words reached his ears, Dezel perked up, standing before the torrent he jumped over it like he weighed nothing waving at them from the other side. Sorey let out an exclamation of suprise.

"Whoa! You can jump so far-"

"Wait, are you leaving us behind?" Mikleo interrupted Sorey, worried that Dezel would finally show his true face.

Dezel jumped back toward them shadowing Mikleo with his taller frame. "Sorry to disappoint but I decided to make sure her highness gets back to Bale safely. Can’t be too sure with you as an escort."

Deflating all pending aggression from both seraphim, Alisha took Dezel's hand in hers, and smiled at him. It was difficult to tell because of all of the hair covering his face but Sorey was certain he saw hints of a blush dust Dezel's face as Alisha’s kind voice sounded.

"We could never be grateful enough for all your help. We don't know what would have happened if you hadn't been here."

The way he turned his head away from her was giving away his embarrassment and from how much Mikleo wanted to get back at him from his earlier teasing, the aches he was feeling in his legs started to become to (too) persistent. From the corner of his eyes, Sorey saw him wince in pain.

"We are all exhausted. It would be nice if we could take some rest before going further." Sorey intervened fearing that his friend would forget to prioritize his health, "I saw a small shack down the stream, I think we could hide in there." He suggested.

"That actually sounds like a good idea." Dezel answered, "Wind stepping all of you over the torrent would be easier once I have rested a bit."

Listening to Sorey’s advice, they went down the stream. On the side of the road stood a small wooden shack, a large horse peering at them from behind his pen when they made their way toward it. The shack door was left open, a lumberjack axe planted in a log in the front yard. The inside of the shack was filled with freshly cut logs and Sorey smiled pleasantly as the strong scent of wood brought memories of home when he would cut firewood for his fireplace. His smile went down as he hoped for the Elysian's safety.  

Quietly, Dezel settled in a corner, his back propped against the wall as Alisha sat on a forgotten stool. As he considered where to rest, Sorey's eyes wandered back toward Mikleo.

 He was standing near the shack entrance, his head sagging a bit and his breathing a little shallow. To any other person Mikleo would have appeared to just be thinking but Sorey knew better. Mikleo was covered in dust and some of his clothes had tears in them. Not even once in their ruins exploration, even after falling in traps and being trapped there for days before Gramps found them, Mikleo had allowed himself to be this dirty.

He was a water seraph and water seraphs knew how to be shinning in all circumstances.

"You are a mess, Mikleo." Sorey commented in a small voice.

Realizing he had spoken out loud only when burning violet eyes met his, Sorey felt how much he was in trouble when Mikleo slowly approached him.

"Sorey…"

Mikleo approached him, yes, but Sorey was certainly not expecting him to start playing with the opened button of his shirt. Gulping as Mikleo's eyes bore deeply into his Sorey felt his mind clouding when trying to escape that heated glance, his gaze inadvertently landed on Mikleo's lips. He watched, entranced as Mikleo's tongue moistened them.

It wasn't the first time the urge to capture those inviting lips with his own froze Sorey's brain, but it was the first time Sorey felt like the situation had brought them closer. Being kidnaped had him fearing he would forever be apart from Mikleo, that he was losing his chance to tell him how much he meant to him. That they would never be more than…

Yet Mikleo came, he came for Sorey.

Maybe he could hope.

Sorey shuddered in anticipation when Mikleo’s finger hooked on his undershirt collar, his eyelids lowered on their own accord as he thought back about their audience.

"Mikleo, what are you…" he managed to articulate, his head started to slowly inch closer.

"You don't know what I went through just to get your ass out of this mess. Next time think of the consequences."

Eyes bursting open as Mikleo slipped something in his undershirt, Sorey couldn't hold back his cry as a block of ice made his way toward his belly.

"Coooold!"

"That's what you get."

 Smiling in contentment as Sorey writhed and complained, trying to dislodge the ice from his clothing, Mikleo was quick to frown when Sorey’s knee gave way and he almost collapsed on the shack floor under him.

"Sorey!" Alisha's and Mikleo's scream mixed when they both came to Sorey's side.

Sitting up and holding both hands against his side, Sorey pried one away from his ribs to see the damage. The blood coating his palm was a bit alarming. He couldn't remember when he had gotten hurt.

Feeling Mikleo and Alisha hovering worriedly over him he tilted his head to show them a pained smile.

"Ouch?"

Chapter Text

Sorey winced when Mikleo pressed his cold hand over his wound. The cut was small but shallow, nothing life threatening even though it bled quite a bit. Well, the bleeding should have stopped long before they took refuge in the shack but Sorey was sure that his fussing and wriggling had somehow reopened the wound.

With Mikleo refusing to meet his eyes as his hand glowed while he healed Sorey, he could only hope that Mikleo wasn't definitely angry at him.

"I didn't even feel it until now. I thought it was just a graze." Sorey said.

Mikleo eyes were still concentrated on his healing, the process slowed by his tiredness. His lack of response increased Sorey's worry. It was not the first time they fought but this time things were different, they weren't safe in Elysia under Gramps watchful eyes. What if this was the last straw and Mikleo decided he was fed up with him? Sorey turned his head away. He wasn't going to be downed by such thought; if Mikleo was angry at him then he would do anything he could to redeem himself.

 Silence filled the small shack as Alisha glanced quietly over at them. It was obvious in the way she cautiously held herself that she felt responsible for Sorey's wound. She didn't know when it had happened, but she was certain it was while Sorey was protecting her.

Dezel had quietly wandered outside, looking for signs of their pursuer leaving the three of them to their issues.

"I've told you to be careful, you always leave your left side unprotected," Sorey beamed when Mikleo finally talked to him, even if it was to chastise him, it meant he wasn't that angry. Mikleo's sigh felt like they already went over this conversation a million times before, "What am I going to do with you." He added, a small smile uplifting the corner of his lips.

When Mikleo's hand left Sorey skin, he found out that his fingers had gone warm from the contact and he missed their touch. Never had the urge to hold Mikleo against his chest and never let go been this strong. Maybe being forced away from home and put in such dire situation had made him desperate for some kind of closeness with his best friend. Maybe waiting will make that urge go away. Sorey hoped so as he took a deep breath, reigning down the weight in his heart.

He looked back at his wound, trying to divert his mind away from Mikleo. Only a small red line was left on his skin, the blood caking his skin and cloth felt gross though.

As if following Sorey's train of thought, Mikleo formed a small bubble of water in his palm to clean Sorey's side. Then before Sorey could open his mouth to thank him, he moved away and sat against a wall, finally granting his aching body the rest it begged. Mikleo closed his eyes and let out an almost inaudible breath of relief, head resting against the wooden wall.

Sorey heart sank at what he took like a rejection. He could understand that Mikleo wanted to be left alone for now but it still left him with doubt and with the feeling he really had pushed Mikleo's button too far this time. The only thing he could do for now was to let Mikleo rest. With a resigned sigh, Sorey had started to rummage through his travel bag looking for a clean shirt when Alisha let her voice out.

"I'm sorry. I knew they were after me, yet I went to meet Zenrus and put everyone in Elysia in danger." She turned her eyes away, looking toward the door when Sorey's gaze rose from his bag to meet hers, "It was because of me they took you too and I-"

"You couldn't help it." Sorey interrupted her, stopping Alisha in her self-loathing.

He had found what he was looking for in his bag, but he had also found the book he was currently holding in his hands, finger slowly passing over the leathered cover of the celestial record. He went to Alisha and put a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

"Mikleo and I would have left the village sooner than later anyway. Look at it on the bright side. We wouldn't have been able to help you if you didn't choose to seek help in Elysia."

Sorey heard Mikleo hum when he talked about them leaving the village. That was a thing they avoided discussing because no matter how close they were that wouldn't erase the fact that one of them was a human and the other was a Seraph. Gramps had warned Mikleo that Elysia wouldn't be enough to contain Sorey's wander lust and they had always responded that they would go nowhere without the other, yet Gramps response was usually a sigh and a reminder that the human world was no place for a seraph.

He couldn't help but be worried about Mikleo as Gramps words echoed in his mind.

Mikleo had informed Sorey about the mission the Elysians had entrusted to them. He was proud that they chose them to go search for Gramps and bring him back home. But there was something bugging him still, like a bad feeling creeping deep inside the darkest part of his mind. He knew the Elysian weren't in immediate danger but part of him wanted to go back and make sure.

Alisha's shoulder slumped as she pondered over Sorey's words. "Even so, I could never thank you enough, both of you." Her gaze followed Sorey as he pulled out his spare black undershirt out of his travel bag, she started to twirl a stray curl of her ponytail between her fingers, "I do wonder… Ah, maybe it's a bit indiscreet of me to ask, but it’s a question that had had me curious for some time now. Sorey, could I ask you something personal?" she eventually inquired, blushing.

Blinking, Sorey wondered what could embarrass Alisha this much, "I don't mind." He answered, glancing back at Mikleo and smiling as he saw him nearly falling asleep.

She looked even more embarrassed and her mouth opened and closed once before she could form words, "I-I'm curious about how a human child like you ended up being adopted by a Grand Seraph and raised in an all Seraph village? Oh, you don't really need to answer if you don't want to." She said looking everywhere but Sorey.

Standing in the shack with his chest naked could have caused the chill that went down Sorey's spine but he knew better and his smile faltered slightly as he put on his clean undershirt, eyes glancing where Mikleo was nodding off and considering bringing him a blanket.

"That's a long story." He answered, one he didn't mind sharing but one that wasn't his alone.

While Sorey had been turning his back to Alisha, trying to find a good way to respond, Mikleo had risen from his sitting position and was now standing before Alisha, holding his arm against his side.

Alisha met his gaze while his violet eyes considered her, then he started speaking.

"Actually, Gramps adopted us on the same day," He said while he sat cross legged in front of her and tugged at Sorey's pants to make him sit down with him, " That would be our long story." He empathized the 'our' part.

Sorey was glad Mikleo had warmed up to Alisha enough to share something so personal about them. He wanted everyone to know how amazing his best friend was, and seeing him being this open with someone else made his heart swell with pride. Plus Mikleo had always been better than him when telling stories, Alisha could only be captivated.

"Shall we go for the short version?" Sorey asked, tilting his head to the side in wonder.

"So, you both weren't born in Elysia?" Alisha probed, itching to know more now that Mikleo had made their story sound like a tale.

"We only know what Gramps was willing to tell us, though. Elysia was our home so we didn't feel the need to know more about it before." Mikleo went on, shrugging his shoulders.

Alisha nodded; she could see that very clearly. You don't miss what you can't remember.

"Yeah, Gramps and the others were the only parents we ever needed." Sorey asserted.

Sorey's eyes seemed to sparkle when he talked but Alisha fidgeted with her glove questioning if her curiosity gave her the right to ask so much about them. It was too late to take her question back, though, but the way the boys kept glancing at each other made her know that she was in fact the only one having issues with that. Sorey and Mikleo weren't feeling like their past was something to keep locked in a treasure chest, they were so open and willing to share, just looking for the best way to tell their tale. She was more used to conspiracy and secrecy that ran deep within Basil nobility; it was nice and refreshing to be talking with them.

"We are both from the same place, actually. Gramps liked to joke about how we were destined to stay together forever." Sorey had to dodge Mikleo's jabbing fingers at that and heard a small muttered comment about him being too cheesy but that didn't stop him," Did you know about a village named Camlann?" Sorey said, bringing her back on the matter.

Twirling her lock again, Alisha considered the name, her eyes widened when she remembered. "Camlann? Is it the village of origin mentioned in the Celestial Record? The village of the Shepherd?"

"Maybe, Gramps never told us much about that. He told us that Camlann was burned to the ground seventeen years ago after the Black Beast, the Reaper tore the place apart, " A shadow quickly passed over Mikleo’s face when his imagination worked to form something Gramps always eluded to tell more in detail.

"The Black Beast? That's the first time I have heard of such a thing." Alisha was confused.

"It's not even mentioned in the Celestial Record so we could only assume what it was, but still that monster completely destroyed Camlann. Gramps went to look for survivors and he only found Sorey there, barely breathing himself. A tiny baby barely holding onto life

Alisha gasped and held her hand against her mouth in horror, "An entire village… without care for the women and children." Her country was at war so she lived in constant fear to see such things with her own eyes.

Lips pulled tight, Mikleo unknowingly inched closer to Sorey’s side as he continued, "Gramps was giving up hope to find any other survivor when a wounded woman came to him, holding a baby seraph in her arms."

"Must have been the most beautiful baby water seraph," Sorey said before letting out a small laugh when Mikleo jabbed his side.

It was like Mikleo anticipated Sorey's comment, much like he would often say that, still Mikleo's lips eased a little and his eyes seemed to clear up a bit.

"Anyway, the woman was dying and she made Gramps promise he would take care of us. And she told him to give me this, that this it was my inheritance." He ran a hand through his hair, lifting it up a bit to show his forehead.

The circlet he wore had Alisha leaning closer to look at it. It was a finely crafted ornament with a shining blue green stone in the middle. The gold treads ended interlaced with Mikleo's white blue hairs at his temple but the most entrancing thing was the shine in the stone itself. When she looked at it Alisha swore she could hear a distant voice, a song deep in her mind.

The contemplation ended when Mikleo let his hair fall back on his forehead.

"It does look like seraphic art. It's outstanding." She complimented, still feeling astounded.

"So, Gramps brought us back to Elysia far away from Camlann and the Reaper and raised us to this day." Sorey concluded, clapping his hands on his knee.

"It looks like he did a great job." Alisha blushed again, but then she started to think back about what made the boys orphans in the first place. "That Black Beast, maybe we could find information about it in Castle Indels library. That's it!" she suddenly rose from her stool, tapping her fist in her palm, "You should came to Bale with me and find information about the Black Monster if you want. If not, I'm sure Grand Seraph Uno could be of help to find information about Zenrus’ whereabouts."

Sorey looked back at Mikleo, shrugging his shoulder, "Why not? Sound likes a great plan to me, right Mikleo?"

"Visiting a library sounds good to me." Mikleo’s expression was back to normal and Sorey felt the knot he didn't know he had in his stomach melt, "I'm not really afraid of that Beast. I had my head nearly bitten off by a Dragon so-"

 Sorey's eyes widened in disbelief as Alisha’s back straightened like a spring, alarmed by Mikleo statement.

"A Dragon did what?" Sorey asked

"The Dragon is already this close to the border?" Alisha's worried voice covered over Sorey's

Alisha's outburst gave way to a pregnant pause but Dezel chose this moment to come back in, cutting any answer Mikleo could have told them.

"I think we finally lost those fools from Hellena." He announced.

 Alisha’s shoulders loosened a bit after Dezel's statement, "I have to go back to Bale as soon as possible and inform the Chancellor. The war between Sandora and Basil already spread all over Serdio because of that Dragon." she poured her heart out, all of her worry forming into word, her fist tightening in front of her while she clenched her teeth, "If it's this close it could only mean one thing. I…" She let her phrase hang in the air, feeling like she already asked so much of Sorey and Mikleo and yet being this close to an enemy border she knew she needed their help.

Sorey didn't miss Alisha hesitation. "Mikleo packed an old map. I'm sure we could use it to find the fasted way to reach Bale and avoid most of the enemy's border."

The bright smile Alisha gave him was enough to make Sorey know he gave her the answer she needed, and he still implied that they would help her get home safely. Mikleo rose from his sitting position and brushed the bangs on his forehead as he nodded his consent.

"See, he can be intelligent sometime too." Mikleo said to Alisha, then looking back at Dezel he asked, "Are you coming with us, Dezel?"

Crossing his arms over his chest, Dezel shrugged. "I was heading to Bale anyway, plus I already told the princess I'll make sure she came back safely."

"I can't thank all of you enough." Alisha looked overjoyed but she soon gathered herself, she smoothed her clothes looking more like the knight she was.

When they had prepared the day when they would go on an adventure, Sorey and Mikleo had selected a few old maps and Sorey saw when he searched for his clean shirt that Mikleo was cautious enough to take one with him when he had rushed after the soldiers to rescue Sorey. He was already spreading it on the shack floor and he and Mikleo were looking for the fastest way to reach Bale from where they were while Alisha looked over their shoulder. She pointed her finger on a mountain by the sea.

"There, I know this place. There is a cavern that refugees use to cross the border unseen. It's only a half a day walk from here and another half to Bale from the other side, we'll be there before the night if we use this way. It's said to be really dangerous though. "She held her chin between her fingers in thought, "But with the Sandorian soldiers after me, I think this will be the safest way." She informed them.

"That would be the Limestone cave," Dezel interjected, coming out of his meditative silence and looking at the unnamed black dot on the map, "I went through it once, it's not that dangerous and it's a shortcut. We'll reach Bale way before dusk if we go this way."

With two voices telling the good side of choosing the cavern way neither Sorey nor Mikleo felt the need to protest.

"It's decided then, to the Limestone cave."

Looking at the old map, the group would have thought that the cave was further away, yet they soon reached the prairie higher ground and were offered the most beautiful view from up there.

The smell of sea reached their noses before they could see it and Mikleo closed his eyes to take in the new feelings of waves. The sea went as far as their eyes could see, crystal blue water in perpetual movement, with bits of white foam marring its surface as winds brushed over waves. It was breathtaking, but a sight they couldn't linger to appreciate when the enemies were bringing a Dragon to Basil’s capitol city.

It was a bit reluctant they continued to walk until they reached the huge breach between the rocks that marked the cave entrance. Salt from the sea was slowly forming whirlpools as it mingled with freshwater that came out of the cave, a small river having hollowed out the mountain to go reach an estuary and ultimately became one with the sea.

Being this close to his element had Mikleo oversensitive about anything that surrounded them. Every stone of the cave chanted in sync with the mana coursing through him. His earlier tiredness had completely disappeared, and his unhealthy paleness was replaced by his naturally fair skin. His cheeks were a bit rosy too and his eyes a little glazed as he looked at the way the river separated in diverse paths that ended at different plateaus.

Light was filtering easily in and the cave was just windy enough to bring in the smells of the sea. Water pools had formed around the main path and eerie reflections came alive on the cave walls. With the soothing noise of water, everything around them seemed as restless as Sorey.

Nevertheless, Dezel seemed grumpier the farther they progressed in the cave, thinking back about how he was in Helena, Sorey started to think there was something bad between wind seraphs and closed space.

"The water is so pure here, almost like in Elysia." Sorey commented opting not to voice his concern about Dezel.

The group was carefully walking in the large path, though a bit slippery, that part of the cave had been rendered usable by humans. If the war brought in more refugees, it was a given that this forgotten cave would be used more than it had been in the past decades.

"The river must be filtering through the mountains. There is another branch of that same river that crosses Bale, the coursing water has been my lullaby since forever." Alisha said, voice filling with warm nostalgia.

"A bright city nestled between clear water, a high castle on an island. The Celestial Record mentions a city like that." Sorey mused. He still couldn't believe that he could be looking at places mentioned in his favorite book.

"Yes, historians had been debating whether it was talking about Bale way before my birth. The city had changed names before." Alisha’s voice rose a little in excitement, she was proud of her country and she couldn't wait to show Sorey the wonderful architectural details her city nursed.

No one was certain when Dezel took it upon himself to lead the way, but they all stopped when he did. "The way his narrowing after that cross, be careful and watch your step." He warned.

The words of advice were enough for them to start walking one behind another with Dezel opening the formation and Mikleo closing it. The path in front of them was indeed narrowing, actually the path was forming steps that descended further in the cave, and there the light was dimmer.

Some furrow of water flowed under the steps, the stone surface under the flow was so smooth and polished that Sorey wanted to test a theory. He stopped walking, watching the gentle current finish its run into a small pool way below the natural stair case.

"Say Mikleo," he started, mischievous smile already creeping on his face, "Is that pool down there shallow?"

Unsuspecting, Mikleo stopped beside Sorey, looking at the furrow his friend had given his attention to, "Hum, no, that pool overflows into another pool and in another until they go back to the river. Why did you ask, want to drink from it?" Mikleo asked, remembering Sorey comment about the water purity.

Sorey shrugged. "It just looked fun, but I don't want to end up completely drenched."

Mikleo didn't had time to process Sorey’s answer because a careful hand was already sneaking around his waist, fingers anchoring themselves into his corset of belts and bringing him closer to Sorey's chest. Any protest died in his throat when Sorey’s chest collided with his back. And the next thing he knew, he had been pushed, ass in the water.

They were sliding fast, carried away by the current and the furrow supporting them, they were descending down the cave at an alarmingly fast rate. Sorey’s laugh and exclamation of joy behind him echoed in the cave and resonated through Mikleo's back but he couldn't hear it over his own scream and the pounding of his heart because this was insane, this was reckless and… this was actually kind of fun.

"Should we follow them?" Alisha asked, looking puzzled by the situation.

"Don't want to be wet." Dezel drawled and continued on the stairway.

Alisha looked back at the furrow, then she followed Dezel because his words made sense, she couldn't risk wetting her armor.

Breathing hard, Mikleo registered that the sliding had stopped only when Sorey’s nose began to nuzzle behind his ear. They were sitting in the shallow pool; the water reaching their ankles and their asses drenched yet Sorey was still laughing quietly, his natural warmth spreading into Mikleo through the arms he had warped around him.

Sorey’s smile flattened when he felt Mikleo go stiff in his arms. Slowly starting to let go, he changed his mind and buried his head in his friends shoulder. He wasn't about to let Mikleo go just yet, not when there was still that bubble of discomfort between them.

"I'm glad you came for me, Mikleo."

It was a simple thank you, yet it carried everything Sorey couldn't find words to tell out loud. It was meant to bring his Mikleo back to him and chase that silent and angry seraph that replaced him.

Not prying Sorey's arms away from him, Mikleo took his hand and interlaced their fingers, he sighed finally allowing the weigh in his heart to be lifted, his mind reaching toward the embers of Sorey's presence.

"And I'm grateful to finally be able to travel with you. I wouldn't have it any other way." Mikleo said, a true smile finally gracing his lips.

Sorey and squeezed Mikelo’s hand lightly as he raised his head, "Really? I thought you couldn't wait to go back to Elysia? I thought being stuck with me to search for Gramps annoyed you."

Rising from the pool and facing Sorey, Mikleo’s hand crept toward his friend to start a wet tickle war. "Idiot, you had always been this way. Traveling the world was my dream too, remember?"

Not listening to Sorey protest, Mikleo stopped his tickling only after he had made Sorey swear his defeat. Dripping wet and flushed from their activity, they stepped out of the pool to go back on the path just as Alisha and Dezel finished their way down the stairs.

"You only have yourself to blame if you catch a cold." Dezel said as he passed by them.

"It was worth it!" Sorey responded as he followed after the wind seraph.

Exchanging a quick smile with Mikleo, Alisha didn't stay to hear him murmur under his breath, "I will become stronger and protect you. Nothing will hurt you ever again."

The rest of the way was rather calm after that, though Sorey started shivering when they reached the largest room. A small lake was underneath them, water dripping droplet after droplet from enormous stalactite. Mikleo was about to ask for a pause, ready to use is power and finally dry Sorey's cloth when Dezel’s voice echoed against the limestone wall.

"Look, these are rock fireflies."

He made them stop in front of the wall, silencing the group, a few seconds after small yellow-green lights erupted from the wall; they flew in front of them, assembling in a cloud form.

"You know a lot," Alisha said voice barely above a whisper as she feared to scare the insects.

It was beautiful. Here in the deepest part of the cave where light barely filtered the fireflies' luminescence was casting a warm and gentle glow. Dezel seemed to be the one they preferred, the small creatures making him smile as they turned around him.

"There were some of them in Elysia too; they liked to nest in near the Mabinogio ruins." Sorey said, "I can't remember the number of time they saved me from Gramps wrath."

Mikleo crossed his arms at that, "Only because you kept going home either with something sprained or a concussion."

"They are really useful. They saved me a lot of times." Dezel confessed.

"How so, aren't they normal fireflies?" Alisha inquired. She was learning more from those young men than from her instructor in the army.

Outstretching his arm toward the fireflies, Dezel stirred them. They responded by glowing fiercer, incasing them in their warm glow. Alisha let out an exclamation of wonder when she felt the light spreading into her. Her tense muscles eased, and she even felt some of her tiredness go away. Sorey had stopped shivering too and Mikleo had his eyes closed as he basked in the feeling.

Her gaze deviating toward Dezel she saw him rubbing at his eyes, he had used their distraction to tip his head, making his hair fall away from his face. Slowly he opened clouded eyes and let the fireflies power sooth some of his pain.

"You’re blind!"

Alisha’s exclamation had left her mouth before she could prevent it. She put her hand over her mouth, catching herself too late. The glow from the fireflies dimmed, leaving the cave nearly dark again but she felt the gaze on her.

"That's an old battle wound." Dezel grinned, making Alisha know he wasn't offended.

"Well, he never looks straight at you and had trouble when he can't read the wind to walk so I knew it." Mikleo said, rising his chin a little.

"That's not something to worry about when you are a wind Seraph." Sorey said like he was trying to reassure Alisha.

Still irritated that she again stepped on someone's personal matter without showing any care, Alisha still felt somewhat fooled because she obviously was the last one to know about Dezel. Her bout of clumsiness gave way to an awkward pause between them so she twirled her hair.

"W-well, I'm sorry I let surprise overcome me then. Wouldn’t it be wise to forget that incident and proceed? I'm sure we are nearing the other end."

She didn't stop to allow any comment to be said. Alisha passed by them and held her mouth tight swearing to herself that she would do some training to work out her excitement back in Bale.

The group found out in bewilderment that she had been right. The next room was on a lower ground, the rock walkway closer to the lake than it ever was. That room was large too but sunlight passed through the large hole in the farthest wall. Sorey felt himself breathe easier, he hadn't known the sound of droplets falling rhythmically and water flowing could start to make him miss silence.

He wanted to make a small run to finally come out of the cave, but Dezel stopped him brutally arm extended in front of the group.

"Wait, there is something in here." He warned, head turning toward the holes that littered the wall nearest them.

As if answering to Dezel, an inhuman cry resonated and a huge head came out from one of the holes, blocking their path. The head was attached to an elongated serpentine body, the creature opening his mouth to show them fangs soaking with venom. Powerful muscle helped the huge creature to stand upright as it prepared to strike at them.

"Could it be the rumored guardian of the cave?" Alisha said as she pointed her lance in defense.

Dezel's pendulums were already flying right toward the giant snake eyes. "It wasn't there last time!" He said right as his weapon stopped the monster’s assault.

"The exit is just behind it, we just have to bypass it."

Sorey tried to approach, ceremonial sword rising in defense when the snake went for him. He side stepped and ran back toward Alisha.

When they had been fighting guardians in the prison, they had rapidly found a sort of cohesion and despite the huge difference in their stile the four of them had made quite the team. Now their adversary was ten time larger than any Sandorian soldier, they fell back behind Dezel trusting him to use his wind to repel the snake and give them time to reflect on a strategy.

"There is enough water here for me to turn it into a giant Popsicle." Mikleo said, summoning his staff. He was already pulling on the mana from the lake, feeling the water respond to his call, "But I need time to gather enough water. Dezel’s barrier won't last long enough."

"Right we will divert its attention." Sorey nodded immediately understanding Mikleo's plan and agreeing to it.

"You take the left, I take the right." Alisha's combativeness was written on her face.

Mikleo closed his eyes in concentration, raising his staff behind him. Unnatural wind started to flow around him his element gathered in his body. The shift in atmosphere it caused alerted to the snake that stopped trying to bite off Dezel's pendulum to lunge after Mikleo.

A strong gust of wind pushed the monster over, making its huge body slide on the wet ground.

"Now kids!" Dezel yelled after them.

The battle drawing them, Alisha and Sorey circled the snake. Their war cry resonated against the cave walls. Alisha used her momentum and jumped, her lance sinking between the snakes scales. Sorey had stepped over a stalagmite, hands gripping hard his sword as he let his strike fall on the snake’s head.

Attacked on both sides, the snake hissed and writhed without being able to decide between dislodging Alisha who continued to plunge her lance and twist or bite down on the offending pest who kept hitting its head. And there was still that shinning thing that burned his eyes.

Dezel saw when the snake’s attention shifted back toward Mikleo, Sorey and Alisha’s diversion having little to no effect on it. He readied himself, clutching his pendulum and swearing under his breath. He knew the metal string won't be able to hold if he tried to harness the snake with it. When he felt the sudden move in the winds, it was too late to do anything about it.

Turning sharply toward the one he was protecting, Dezel could only hold his hand toward Mikleo as the snake tail violently swatted the water seraph. He heard the startled gurgle leave Mikleo's throat when the snake tail collided with his midsection. He saw him pushed away by the raw force. He heard the lake splash as Mikleo's body fell heavily on its smooth surface.

"Mikleo! He can't swim!"

Sorey's cry was everything the snake needed to finally turn his attention back toward him. Completely ignoring Alisha while she made a huge gash in the creature’s skin, it opened its mouth wide. Sorey was quick enough to react and the next moment he was out of the snake’s reach. Only, biting him had never been the snake's intention.

Green, acidic fluid was thrown out of the snake's fang, right toward were Sorey's feet had landed. No human reflex would have been quick enough to dodge the deadly poison. Alisha’s shoulder crashing again Sorey's back to take him out of harms way would have only wounded her as well.

It was only the white blinding light that engulfed him that saved them. The snake trashed and screamed in pain as its body started to melt, burned by the light. Alisha heard the light sing in her mind, like a faraway call lost in the wind, just like when she had looked had Mikleo's jewel.

When the light finally dimmed, Sorey found himself under Alisha, the hard ground behind his back and the snake’s lifeless body still smoking as it turned into a puddle. He swallowed, having a hard time breathing with the girl’s weight on top of him.

Remembering where he was and what at happened, he looked around frantically and his throat closed on itself when he tried to call for Mikleo.

But there he was, the most precious thing in his life, knee deep in the unknowingly shallow lake before he stepped back on the platform, holding his side in pain while Dezel helped him back toward them.

Alisha was carefully unwinding herself from him, her eyes mirroring the question he was about to ask.

"W-what was that?" Sorey rasped.

Mikleo shook his head, hand glowing as he healed his broken rib, "Gramps blessing… I think." Was the only answer he could guess.

No one could see the way Dezel’s unseeing eyes narrowed from under his hair, "Well the path his clear now. We lost too much time with this fight and we should get to Bale as soon as possible."

Offering his hand to help Alisha stand, he kept glancing at the puddle the snake's body had left behind. Poor thing only wanted to defend its territory.

"Dezel's right, we should hurry." Alisha dusted her armor, already making her way toward the cave exit.

"Are you all right?" Sorey lingered behind with Mikleo, looking at the seraph’s waist like it sported a gaping hole.

"I should be the one to say that. That thing wasn't even as huge as the Dragon." Mikleo posed his hands on his hips, puffing his chest out and marching in turn toward the exit. He made sure his cape fluttered in front of Sorey to better emphasize his point.

Finally following the group, Sorey chose not to think back about what had happened for now. Still, he risked another taunt toward Mikleo.

"A shame you couldn't manage to turn it into a giant Popsicle, though."

Chapter Text

 The main street was busy with merchants starting to pull their stands away while the few remaining customers hastily did their late purchases as food stalls began to replace the daylight shops. Even so, she spotted the man she had spent all day waiting for in worry the second he passed through the city gates. Well, it was hard to miss a tall guy wearing mostly black in this golden city. 

The crowd around him cleared a bit as he neared the fountain and she could see he didn't come back alone. But that was the least of her worry for now, because she was certain he knew she had spotted him and was staring at him. She saw how he looked around but stopped abruptly, his back straightening when the wind brought him her scent. She saw how his gait changed ever so slightly while she pointedly looked in his direction, waiting for him to acknowledge her and come greet her. 

She started to growl under her breath when he turned his back to her and continued to ignore her, hiding his newest companion from her view.  Her hands gripped hard at the crate she was carrying, her body shaking with the need to make it fall on that man's head because of the nerve he had to ignore her after disappearing like he did. Just like that, he went right behind the frontline with just an 'I have something to take care of, it might take a while'. Doesn't he care that he had worried them?  

"Rose?" 

Her grumbling alerted her coworker, her nails starting to scratch at the crate's wood from how hard she was gripping it. Hearing her name spoken with such a concerned tone, she swallowed her resentment and allowed herself to relax, her glare finally leaving the man in black alone. 

The bearded man that had called her offered a knowing smile, putting his hand on her crate. "We could take over from here and finish the delivery. Maybe you can go fetch Dezel and give him a piece of our minds?" 

Blue eyes deviating from the older man to the rest of her busy companions, Rose couldn't help but smile back at them. She wasn't alone in that, the whole group had shared her worry over Dezel's attitude, and now they were willing to take her share of work just to make sure she could free her mind of that needless worry. The best companion one could have, really, minus Dezel.

"Thanks, Eguille." Rose said, her shoulder slumping as she let him take the crate from her. "It won't be long, he just needs a lecture." 

Without needing to add anything she turned away, her boots clinking on the cobblestone road as she made her way toward the fountain. Fist balled at her side, she was ready to deal some blows. 

A short haired red headed girl let out a heavy sigh, watching Rose's back as she blended in the crowd. "Ah Dezel, making our Rose worry like that. That man is as thick as a brick when it comes to emotions. We could only hope he would learn one day. At least Talfryn sent us a message to let us know he would be late." She shook her head in desperation. 

Eguille chuckled. "Who knows, if someone could make a centuries old seraph lean something it would be our Rose." 

Echoes of approbation and chuckles answered him. 

Her strides long and confident, Rose was more than ready to punch Dezel, though a punch in the arm would do for now, she wasn't willing to make a scene in front of potential clients. He was still turning her back to her as she made her way to him, seemingly engrossed in a conversation with the companions he came with. 

To be honest, now that her initial anger started to subside, Rose could feel relief taking root in her heart and it was threatening to make her soften Dezel’s punishment. She knew he could take care of himself, but it wasn't the first time she told him he could rely more on her and the Sparrow Feathers for god’s sake. Still, Rose was glad he seemed safe and sound, plus he seemed to have made some friends on his way too. The taciturn Dezel who barely talked to anyone and preferred to keep to himself had made friends; she was impatient to meet those guys because she somehow felt like they deserved a medal.

Yet, as Rose came closer to them, she opened her mouth to call him out but stopped mid step when the most beautiful girl she had ever seen sat on the fountain edge. Blond curls framing her pretty face, soft pale green eyes and- 

"Is that you, Rose?"  

She could tell Dezel feigned to not knowing she was their before now that he could no longer hide from her. He had interrupted her train of thought and now she was fully back on him. Now that she got closer, she was a bit confused to find out that people were giving Dezel and his group a wide berth, gazes lingering as passerby crossed the fountain square. Her answer came when the beautiful girl rose from her sitting, blinking her eyes as she smiled at Rose. Rose couldn't mistake the armor she wore. Dezel had been traveling with the fucking Knight Princess of Bale. 

"You are even hotter in real life." 

 Light pink dusted the princess’s cheeks as she averted her gaze. "Well, that's... thank you for the compliment." 

Eyes opening the size of saucers when she realized she had spoken her thought out loud, Rose sputtered under her breath inwardly screeching like she had seen a ghost. That girl was so cute! However, she soon used her embarrassment to fuel a new fire against Dezel. All of this was his fault anyway. 

"Where have you been, you idiot seraph." She slapped his arm, Dezel cowering at the onslaught, "Please, ignore Dezel’s rudeness. He does know how to properly introduce someone; he just needs to be told to. Go ahead then and introduce me too your friends properly." She rebuked him. 

Certain that Dezel rolled his eyes behind that curtain of hair of his, Rose had to bite her tongue and told herself to remember that she couldn't punish him in public. Now that she had surely made a fool of herself in front of the princess, she intended to use all means in her possession to restore her image, even if she had to be nice to that traitorous, insensitive friend of hers. 

"Guys, that's Rose my boss. She is the one I was supposed to meet here." Dezel introduced her in the most impersonal and condensed manner he could think of. 

One of the two guys accompanying him put a hand over his mouth, definitely hiding a smile as he muttered, "Well, that was efficient."

The other guy elbowed him discreetly, whispering back at him, "You are being rude, Mikleo."

If glares could kill, Dezel would have dropped dead by now. With her eyes, Rose was making sure he knew that there was no escaping his sentence, and how much he would suffer from it. As if reading Rose's mood, the princess smile fell. 

"Well, I guess you know me, but it would be impolite not to respond to presentation. I'm Alisha Diphda." She tilted her head in greeting.  

Rose bowed in response, "It's an honor your highness."

The brown haired guy Rose failed to notice until then decided it was time to suddenly grab her hand and shake it. 

"Nice to meet you, Rose. I'm Sorey and this is Mikleo." He gestured to another guy beside him.  

A bit stunned by the vigorousness Sorey used to shake her hand, Rose blinked a few times before she could open her mouth to answer to him.

"T-thank you, nice to meet you too." She nearly added an 'I guess' but her professional mode was still on.

 "Don't mind him, he is just weird. Feel free to tell him when he is." Mikleo didn't bother to hide his smile when he commented.

White hair tipped in blue told Rose about Mikleo's seraphic nature while his violet eyes held her gaze impassibly. To her defense, she couldn't help but to stare, Dezel was the only other seraph she ever met and it was a rare occurrence to meet one outside a church or a temple. He was quite a pleasing sight too, Rose had the feeling some of the gazes that lingered in their general direction landed on him more than the others. Were all seraph so beautiful? She wondered.

Now that she looked at him, the brown haired guy wasn't half bad either. He was the exact opposite of his seraph friend though. Where Mikleo was all grace and slender body, Sorey was taller and broader holding a boyish charm she knew some girls would kill for. She just hoped that Alisha didn't belong in that girl category.

 Her mind wandered back to that painter girl that lived close to the town square, Rose wondering if maybe she could commission her to paint the princess’s portrait if only she could convince Alisha to pose for it. She was adamant that the paintings would sell at a good price and she could keep one too… but she was deviating from the subject.  

"Dezel helped us a great deal. Don't let him be modest when he'll tell you about it." Sorey added, putting his hand on his hip and gesturing vaguely in Dezel's direction

Rose’s dubious gaze returned to Dezel, one of her brows lifting incredulously. "Really now? A seraph member of a merchant guild helped a princess and her body guards? Hope you promoted the Sparrow Feather name then!"  

If Dezel escapade could gather some financial benefits to the guild, she won't be able to hold a grudge against him for long. Rose knew that her smile had turned roguish, but she let it be in full display anyway. To her amazement, Alisha returned her smile making her throat suddenly go dry. 

"I was hoping he would stay with us a little longer, though. I still have to go give my report to the chancellor and I wanted for Dezel, Sorey and Mikleo to accompany me to the castle." She shook her head slowly, "I insist that his help needs to be recompensed." 

Not allowing Alisha to go further with her statement, Dezel protested, "And I insist that it doesn’t need to. I didn't help you get back here to win a medal or something. Political stuff isn't for me. I have no intention to set a foot in the palace." He crossed his arm over his chest, making the group know that he wasn't willing to discuss this. 

Alisha’s eyes dimmed a bit and even Sorey seemed a little disheartened by Dezel’s cold attitude. Not liking the mood, Rose’s hand rose to hold her chin in thought. She hummed, not sure if she believed that Dezel’s role had been as indispensable as what Alisha was letting on, yet she could think of a compromise that would eventually make everyone happy. 

"Why don’t you join us for dinner instead? We can cook a feast for everyone so I could thank all of you for bringing back Dezel safe and sound, and for having put up with him all the way. What do you think about that?" Rose offered. 

The moment Alisha's eyes lit up was the moment Rose was sure she would move mountains just to make that girl happy. Courting her would be as sweet and as nice as biting into a freshly baked mabo curry bun.

 Alisha hit her palm with her closed fist. She nodded heartily, as more plans formed in her head.

"That's a great idea. I would like that. We could gather everyone in my house, there are plenty of rooms there and I would be glad to offer anyone to stay the night if needed. I want to thank Dezel after all, not be in his debt further." She crossed her arm behind her back; she seemed really pleased with her addition to Rose’s idea. 

Hoping her mouth wasn't hanging open from how cute Alisha was. Rose had to gather herself before responding, "That's a deal for me." 

"That would be nice! Thanks a lot, Alisha, Rose." Sorey’s voice covered over Mikleo's agreement but Rose could tell he was enjoying the prospect of a feast too. 

Four pair of eyes turned toward Dezel in expectation. Arms draped over his chest like he was trying to shield his person from them, Dezel sighed. 

"I can’t say no to that."

 "I had imagined it more… what was the right word? Grand?" Sorey said.

He tipped his head to the side, eyes taking in Indels Castle peculiar architecture.

The cities had been a wonder and from the moment when they had crossed the gates and he hadn't known where to put his eyes. Eyes glowing in marvel and mouth opening in awe, Sorey had wanted to ask Alisha question after question. Yet, he was aware that the sun was setting soon and more than his thirst for knowledge, the chancellor needed to be informed about the Dragon situation as soon as possible. He just couldn't help but to look at everything they passed by on their way to the castle.

To the yellow cobblestones neatly arranged to spiral making the streets, the tall chimney over ochre roof tile that shinned when the sun hit them just right, centuries old trees whose leaves fluttered gently in the wind and more than everything the ingenious network of channels and aqueducts Bale was built on, everything was making Sorey’s heart soar with impatience for when he would finally have the opportunity to review those again and again with Mikleo yet, the castle which was supposed to be the cherry on top of the cake was a bit… weird.

It looked like a normal square house had all of its sharp angles smoothed to appear round and then someone had added a smaller round square on top, pointy towers and a long staircase in the middle.

It was built on what seemed to be an artificial small island, a bit away from the rest of the town and was surrounded by the river. It was a lot smaller than what one could imagine from a castle housing royalty and a bit enclosed too. "I heard that it was mostly used for administrative function. Only the young king and a few of his guard reside here. The rest of the council and the royal family are housed in a district made for nobility." Rose informed them, crossing her arms behind her head.

With Alisha gone inside to ask the chancellor for an audience, she was the only one remaining willing to enlighten them a bit, even though she herself knows little about the town history.

The small group was waiting for Alisha's return outside before the bridge that marked the castle area. A long staircase marked the entrance but two round doors bordered it, one guard on each side.

With enough time to properly observe Indels Castle architecture, Sorey was left with more questions. Why was it so round? Was it mentioned in the Celestial Record?

Though made of the same white and ochre bricks used for larger buildings in the town, the garden and the decoration gave him the feeling that it was older than what he had seen of the town. That roundness however struck a familiar cord in Sorey, and green eyes widening in realization he grabbed Mikleo's forearm.

"Is it just me or does this look like gramps home somehow?"

At first Mikleo lips jutted out as he was about to contradict Sorey but upon closer inspection, he had to grant him that. Humming in thought as he brought his hands to his lips, violet eyes began to inspect the building more closely.

"Could it be that it was made using Seraphic arte?"

Without needing further prompting, Sorey reached for the Celestial Record attached to his belt.

"That would mean it was built right after the Dragoon war!" he exclaimed.

Bringing himself closer to look at the book over Sorey’s shoulder, Mikleo started to argue with Sorey. Soon their conversation became heated and passionate, small shoots and exclamations troubling the silent street.

Rose gripped the iron railing behind her, having lost the boys after they started talking about architecture imitation and possible rebuild over the years. She turned away from the castle, preferring to look at her reflection in the clear water. More than seeing it, she felt Dezel leaning on the railing beside her.

"Don't ever do that again. I mean it." She sighed after a while.

She felt him flinch in discomfort as he heard the silent threat over the tone she used.

"That… it had nothing to do with the group." he responded calmly, making sure not to be overheard by the boys.

"We are a family. Everything that could get you killed has everything to do with the group. We love you, Dezel. I love you. I care if something was to happen."

Silence hung between them, yet it was heavy and filled with unsaid words. It was too much for Rose, even though she was used to Dezel brooding. She hit his arm lightly.

He leaned against her, lightly pushing his weight on her, telling Rose that for now he was beside her.

"She was there Rose; I finally found clues of her whereabouts after all those years.  I couldn't wait for the others and let her escape." He said somberly.

"But she did anyway and you got caught." She gritted her teeth, struggling to keep her voice at a low volume.

Dezel didn't even try to argue with her, he contented to put a hand on her head gently ruffling her red hair.

"You were going to stay some more with the princess and them, right?"

"I would have let you know about-"

"It's alright. I'm not as heartless as you seem to think so I'll make that official by giving you a mission." She eventually turned back toward him, fingers absentmindedly touching the beads hanging in her ruby red hair.

Her blue eyes narrowed slightly at the boys, and Dezel tipped his hat over his closed eyes as he felt the girl’s emotion in the winds. Sorey was making grand gestures with is hand, still engrossed in a debate with his Seraph friend.

"Keep your blind eyes on that Seraph boy. I don't think he knows what he has in his hands."

Her word fell like a guillotine, final and unquestionable. Dezel knows that whatever his own reason for following the boys, she wouldn't excuse any lapse in this mission.

When Alisha came back to tell them that an emergency audience had been granted, they wouldn't have thought they would have waited for so long just to be dismissed at the end.

They had been sat in a waiting room in the hall, curved wall lined with a green striped comfortable looking couch. And confortable they were as Sorey's body molded blissfully in the cushion. He was still fidgeting from time to time, pent up energy from his earlier debate with Mikleo having built back up since they were finally allowed inside and a guard had led them here to wait.

They waited for what felt like hours because anxiety and apprehension had shut even Sorey. Three pair of eyes immediately landed on the guard that descended the staircase coming down from the throne room.

Alisha was the first to stand up, the boys imitating her after sharing an analytical glance.

Sorey’s nervousness was making him fidgety again. His need to ask questions about the castle architecture and finally win over Mikleo's conjecture had been subdued but instead he was plagued with anxiety about what to do. For one he doesn't know what the proper royal etiquette was here and feared he would put shame on Alisha and secondly the castle was as weird on the inside as it was on the outside it was hard not asking about it. His curiosity wanted to be satisfied so badly.

He remembered Alisha's words about a library somewhere around here, maybe he could convince Mikleo to go after this.

Mikleo's eyes sent him a reassuring glance, silently telling him that he was doing alright. So Sorey listened to Mikleo and stopped fiddling with his clothes, kept his mouth shut and stood behind Alisha as the guard came closer.

"Princess Alisha, you are invited to participate in the emergency war council. Seraph Uno of the church of Bale has accepted to meet your guest and will soon come to them." He said in a deadpan voice.

Alisha seemed displeased with that, her fingers clenching and unclenching at her side. Her eyes narrowed before she recalled that the guard was just doing what he was told to and she adopted a more neutral stance.

"The chancellor Bartlow was supposed to greet them in person, they-"

"The king and the kingdom of Basil greatly thank those two young men for bringing the princess back safe and for the information about the enemy dragon." The guard deadpanned again, staring straight ahead like he wasn't really seeing Alisha before him, "However, it has been decided that them being neither warrior nor mercenary, precious time could not be spared to greet them formally in this time of war. Now if you please, follow me your highness."

Outrage showed briefly over Alisha's face. With a sight, she turned back to talk to the both of them, "I'm sorry for that. Would you wait for me here? I promise you'll be thanked properly."

Not liking the fake smile he saw on her face, Sorey gently took Alisha's hand in his, feeling like she needed the contact. "You don't need to thank us." He grinned at her.

"That's right. if anything we are the one indebted to you. We had no clues about gramps and now you gave us something to start from." Mikleo nodded his thanks, "But to be honest, I'm looking forward to that feast you promised."

His words made the corner of Alisha's mouth lift a bit.

With reluctance, she drew back her hand toward herself and turned her back to them. Sorey watched her climb the marble steps with some of his apprehension lifting off his shoulders.

"It looks like you can be kind sometimes too, Mikleo." He teased, his grin turning into a smirk

Sorey's hand twitched, wanting to try and tickle his friend’s side just a little bit. He knew it wasn’t the place for that but kept the idea in mind for later.

Lifting is chin up in defiance, Mikleo answered, "What do you mean, sometimes? I'm always kind. "

Before any encore of their earlier debate could start anew, a silvery voice interrupted them.

"Well, they didn't warn me I would be meeting one of my kin. It's been so long since I have seen another water seraph."

Sorey turned toward the voice’s owner, genuinely curious. That Uno was a water Seraph just like Mikleo was a surprise. Now that he thought about it, the way the town was built over water should have planted the idea in his head.

With a wave in his blue and white robe, Uno inclined his body to them, "My name is Uno, Lord of the Land of Bale." His eyes met Mikleo's, shoulder length azure hair framing his round face, "Not a lot of humans pray anymore when war occupies most of their mind." There was no bite in his words; like he was just stating a fact and that it didn't affect him more than that.

It didn't fool Mikleo though. For him the resentment behind that unnecessary commentary was clear as spring water. As a water seraph himself he knew how human prayers were important to enhance seraphim' blessings and powers, he had felt Uno's domain when they entered the city and it was nothing like Gramp's, nothing to protect Uno's followers from the war if it were to reach the capital city. Nevertheless, if Mikleo was concerned by Uno’s choice of words, he wasn't about to call him out on it in front of Sorey.

"I didn't know there were still seraphim willing to live with humans and protect them. My name is Mikleo, and my companion here is named Sorey." Mikleo said, tipping his head in turn.

Sorey watched the strange exchange between the two and for a second felt like observing a battle in dominance. It was strange. Uno had an aura around him that no other seraph back in Elysia had. Like living among humans made him just a little bit different. Maybe Mikleo was sensing it too, that’s why he seemed on edge the moment Uno opened his mouth to talk to them.

Smirking slightly, Uno didn't wait to be prompted to sit on one of the couches. He gestured with his hand to invite them to do the same.

"Well, it's seem you travelled a long way to meet me. I hope it's not to lecture me about my choice to live with humans. I thought you would understand me for you seem to appreciate human companionship as well."

Mikleo's eyes narrowed at that, teeth clenching as he thought of a good way to respond. The word human fell heavily on his ears, like it physically pained him to reduce Sorey to just that. Or was it because of the way Uno had looked at Sorey after his statement, eyes roaming over him like he was appraising his value that made Mikleo uncomfortable.

"It seems like there is a misunderstanding, my words weren't meant as an accusation." He said pleasantly, trying hard not to scowl.

"We grew up together. We are best friend so it felt natural to travel together."

Judging that now was a good time to intervene, Sorey explained the situation as simply as he could, yet resumed all of what Uno needed to know about their relationship. The rest was personal.

Uno’s veiled hostility toward Mikleo dissipated the instant his navy blue eyes widened in recognition, "Are you by any chance coming from Elysia? Are you Zenrus's adopted children?"

Finally settling back on the couch, Sorey’s smile grew as Uno inched toward him. Hopefulness flashed in his eyes.

"You know Gramps?"

"Every seraph knows who Zenrus is." Uno smiled, all threat having dissipated from his body language. "I'm honored to be meeting his children. You both are the living proof that human and seraphim still can cohabit. You are a symbol for seraphim like me who still believe in that coexistence."

When she had told them about Uno, Alisha did say he was maybe the wisest man in Serdio and Sorey felt silly because it was obvious he would know who Zenrus was judging that he was a Grand seraph and an important figure in the seraphim world, still his pride swelled when he heard his Gramps being recognized and talked about in great term. However, he surely didn't expect the comment about Mikleo and him.

The Celestial Record mentioned how after the Dragoon War, seraphim and humans that fought together against a common enemy had grew farther apart as the age of men began. It always made him sad how much seraphim in Elysia feared humans. Sure, it was different with him, because he was one of them, but sometimes when he was younger he would catch wary glances or one of them would jump away when he would move too quickly. Sorey had been reminded of that the hard way when Alisha had stepped in the village vicinity, and it hurt to see hatred in the eyes of people he loved.

It would be a blatant lie to say he didn't dream about finding a way to bring humans and seraphim to live in harmony again. It was really uncanny to hear that he was considered a living example of that dream.

"I surely didn't expect to be praised for keeping up with him." Mikleo muttered, his reddened cheeks telling Sorey he wasn't the only one uncomfortable with Uno’s attention.

"If only I wasn't so tight on my schedule, I would have been more than happy to give you a tour of the city, but alas I can only grant you a few minutes to discuss what you wanted to ask me."

Hand coming over his heart, Uno seemed really disappointed not to be able to spend more time with them. His words were clearly a polite way to urge them on, meaning he was telling the truth and was truly resenting not being able to make some time for them.

"Actually, we are looking for Zenrus. He went away for a gathering of seraphim weeks ago and should have come back by now. We know the place it's held is a secret but if there is a chance you could help us find him…"

Mikleo stopped to speak when he saw Uno’s face fell at the news.

"To be honest, those gatherings are for Grand Seraph so I'm not allowed to know where it was held, so I'm afraid I can't be of much help," Uno frowned deeply, a spike of his former hostility troubled his aura, "Still, Zenrus came to visit me on his way to that gathering and I know for sure that he was heading to Hoax."

Sharing a glance with Mikleo, Sorey was indeed disappointed that they didn't exactly have the information they wanted. He knew looking for Gramps would not be easy, the country was huge and it was like looking for a needle in a haystack.

Well, at least they had another hint of where to look.

Sighing, Mikleo's finger combed through his hair, "Thank you for your help. It's not very much but it's something."

"I truly wish I was more useful. If you have any other question I would be glad to answer it."

"Have you heard about a monster called the Black Beast?"

Violet and Navy eyes immediately landed on Sorey, the former were astonished if not a bit betrayed because Mikleo would have thought Sorey would have concerted with him before asking a question like that. Years went by since Sorey had shown any interest in the Beast that destroyed their hometown.

Biting his lips, Mikleo dreaded Uno’s answer because it meant Sorey was straying away from him yet again.

"Why should you ask a question I can't answer again?" Uno’s smile was amused, yet it didn't reach his eyes, "All information the kingdom had gathered about that monster was destroyed in a fire way before I became Bale's Lord of the Land, sighting of it goes back to the Dragoon War it is truly hard to find record."

"That's why it isn't mentioned in the Celestial Record." Sorey mused.

Uno agreed, "Maybe."

The door gave a small creaking sound as Mikleo pushed it open. Holding an oil lamp in his hand, he extended it to lighten the dark room. Another lamp had been lit inside making the room bright enough to see the figure sitting between rows of books.

When Alisha gave them a small tour of her home, their eyes had shone when they had landed on the princess's library. According to her, it wasn't half the royal library but it was still a collection impressive enough to have Sorey nearly drooling.

Laughter and booming voices echoed in the corridor behind him, making him smile when he thought back of the party he just left to go find another wanderer. Rose’s companions had been as exuberant and loud as she was and Mikleo surely didn't expect to have such a good time. But he had. It felt like home when the Elysians would make bonfires and chant and dance all night and Sorey would blush from too much dancing, breathless from laughter and eyes full of stars.

Yet, even if Sorey’s eyes were alight that night too, it started to dim throughout the party, until Sorey had discreetly slipped away

"I was sure to find you here." Mikleo said as he pushed the door closed behind him.

Eyes glancing up from the book he was carefully holding in one hand, Sorey couldn't hold back a tired yawn.

"Sorry I didn't tell you, I wanted some quiet, you looked you had so much fun."

Humming under his breath, Mikleo extinguished his lamp, the one beside Sorey was enough to illuminate where he was sitting on the floor. Most of the room was instantly drowned by the shadows, grayish light from the moon casting its ray on the old rug. He carefully perused the books cover, frowning at the impressive collection of cheesy romance novel Alisha had. Shrugging he still chose one and went to sit beside Sorey.

"It was nice. Rose and the Sparrow Feathers are great people, but I do enjoy some quietness too."

Nodding as he went back to his book, Sorey silently offered his friend some cushions and settled more comfortably to read against him like they did so many times before, familiarity making a comfortable blanket between them. It felt good. It felt more like the Sorey he grew up with. The Sorey he loved to no ends

No more words were needed. Mikleo could feel whatever was plaguing Sorey ease with his presence, the tensions in his shoulders releasing as they basked in each other’s warmth. Sorey needed a moment like that just as much as Mikleo needed to be alone with him right now.

 At first Mikleo focused on his reading but as time passed and Sorey leaned more and more on him, eventually ending up resting his head on Mikleo's lap before his light snoring was the only sound heard in the library, reading had become nearly impossible. The words were blurred by thoughts about what they went through in a matter of two days, and Mikleo was certain it had strained their relationship.

Setting his book down, he gently ran his fingers between Sorey’s unruly strands careful not to wake him.

No wonder he was out, he barely had any rest since the night they escaped from Hellena and it was yesterday night. Only yesterday, yet it felt like a month had happened in the span of a few hours.

Mikleo thought back about what Uno had told them and how his hopes about finding Gramps quickly before Sorey could grow attached to the human world were crushed.

He had seen how Sorey was with Alisha, with Rose, Eguille, Felice and Rosh and it devastated him to think that Sorey belonged to that world. Not with him, not with a seraph.

With Alisha, he could do. She was a nice girl and she was perfect for Sorey. He saw how she had instinctively rushed to protect him when the giant snake threw acid at him and Mikleo was sure Sorey didn't leave the girl indifferent. She was willing to give her life to protect him too, so it wouldn't be half bad giving Sorey up to her as long as she allowed him to stay. Yes that was it.

 Because he would stay as long as Sorey wanted him. Even if he witnessed him falling in love with someone else, having children, growing old with someone else, everything that Mikleo couldn't offer him. Even if it meant his heart will break and that his sorrow could turn him into a dragon. He would stay for Sorey. He would protect him always.

 Mikleo smiled as he came to that decision, vowing his very soul to protect Sorey’s life. His heart was clenching in his chest and his guts knotted and made him dizzy with the need to throw up yet, for the first time in years he felt at peace with himself.

His eyes squeezed as he struggled not to cry. Sometimes it was like he didn't know who Sorey was anymore, just like when he suddenly asked for information about the Black Beast, just like when he emitted that strong light that burned the giant snake to ashes.

It couldn't have come from Alisha.

It was just no use overthinking about it because there was no way to know what it was. Conjecture could go up and fill a library worth of books before he could come close to an answer. It had happened so fast, Mikleo could only hope it was made by Gramps's blessing.

His fingers went from Sorey's hair to brush against his forehead, and then descend his nose until the pads of his fingers touched the roughness of Sorey's shaped lips.

How would it feel to press their lips together, if only just once? Sorey wouldn't know. It wouldn't hurt anyone. Mikleo’s tongue went up over his own lips tingling from the imagined sensation of them meeting in a kiss. Sorey’s breath felt cool against them.

It would hurt Mikleo so much to cross that line.

The door creaking alerted him and he quickly straightened his back, his eyes catching Alisha's as her head poked out from the corridor. She smiled gently at him, her own tiredness casting shadows under her eyes. Now that he was paying attention to it, Mikleo noticed that the noise from the party had stopped.

"Everyone went to sleep, I was thinking maybe you would want to too, so I brought some blankets."

She pushed the door open completely, holding some warm looking blankets in her arms. Crossing the threshold, she lightened her step when she noticed that Sorey had already fallen asleep. Hiding a small laugh behind a hand, she laid the blankets near Mikleo.

Mouthing a thank you and reaching a hand to grab a blanket, Mikleo returned her smile. She really did grow on him.

Without needing to be told to, she helped him make a nice makeshift bed for him and Sorey. Strangely, a nagging feeling assaulted Mikleo’s mind more than any of the thoughts he had moments ago. He felt like now was the right time to ask, before he and Sorey made any plan to go to Hoax.

"You didn't talk about the council since it ended. Did they have a plan to stop that dragon?" he whispered.

Alisha’s smile faltered and her hands trembled a bit but she quickly laced them together to hide it.

"They are planning to stop it and fend it off by using the nearby fort at Hoax." she whispered back.

Mikleo perked up, brow furrowing at the irony. Alisha stood back up carefully, bringing a stray strand of blond hair behind her ear. Now that he looked at her more closely, Mikleo was under the impression that she looked awkward and uncomfortable without her armor. The way she held herself was a little off too, like she missed the weight of her battle attire.

"I'm being sent there to keep the battle line."

Her fist clenched, her battle maiden side seemingly fighting with the girl in her.

"It seem like our fates would be crossed a little longer then." Mikleo wanted his smirk to be challenging her, daring Alisha to show them what she was made of.

His heart was in agony. Even fate wanted to keep Alisha and Sorey together.

Chapter Text

As the group neared the border, the landscape gradually changed to something deeply scarred by the war, Sorey could only think of what Alisha told them about Basil history.

She had looked quite somber with the fire lighting her features when she talked about how the whole continent of Serdio was a united country before the war. Twenty years ago when the king died prematurely and his younger brother protested that Chancellor Bartlow was to be named regent until the six year old prince would be old enough to govern.

Dissension started in the government heart, opposing noble family and military. Those who thought the young prince's uncle should have been named regent baked him up, thus a civil war began. Eventually the prince’s side won a major victory and the dissident had to flee to the more hostile part of Serdio.

The prince's uncle founded the Sandorian empire where he ruled, biding his time and vowing unconditional hatred to the Chancellor Bartlow. The war continued, at the difference now that everyone knows it won't end until one of the parties was annihilated.

More than ever with that dragon on their side, Sandora was close to reach its goal.

Alisha's thought on the matter remained unknown to Sorey, the princess dismissing his questioning with a polite smile and a change of subject.

But now Sorey knew she had only known war all her life.

Entering Hoax gates showed him another side of war. Where he thought he would only find a military fort being so close with the Sandorian border, Sorey was instead led into a small fortified town.

A small town barricaded by a huge wall where patrolling soldiers marched along weary civilians.

He couldn't hide a frown when he saw that the town had been surrounded by woods at one point, much like Elysia. Here the forest had shrunk and was reduced to reach only a slim part of the town wall. The oldest trees had long been used to make the fortifications, the barricade reaching high and giving a good viewpoint to the guards.

More than that, Sorey was troubled by the thing most of the people had in their eyes, something that he had briefly saw once in Alisha's eyes the day he had met her. Though there was a small difference from people to people.

The older villagers mostly looked tired, as they only could hope to see the war end before their time on earth comes to an end, but the young looked used to it, having lived without knowing a single day of peace since their birth. And noticing that tugged at Sorey’s heart.

Was he really that sheltered in Elysia?

This border town was in perfect contrast with Basil where war had yet to affect its people; it made Sorey more aware of the difference that could exist within a country.

The soldiers were the worst though. Hope seemed to have been sucked away from their souls. They had been informed of the dragon coming toward them, no doubt.

Still, they were more than happy to welcome Alisha and the enforcements she bought with her. Their government hadn't abandoned them and it lifted their spirit. The man in charge of the stationed garrison was more than happy to work with the Princess Knight. Even though Sorey had already seen a glimpse of the presence Alisha had when dealing with military, it was still a sight to see her take charge. Mikleo almost had to drag him outside when she had started to review the troops.

He almost forgot the reason that brought them here in the first place.

And somewhere he thought that if maybe he and Mikleo had been more than civilian…

Well for now they had to look for Gramps, but a seed was already growing in Sorey's mind.

Unexpectedly, Dezel had tagged along, coming to take orders for the Sparrow Feathers. Though Sorey had a feeling Rose wouldn't have let him come alone if he hadn't traveled with them. It was nice knowing the girl had so much faith in them after only knowing them for one day.

Sorey saw him taking notes and talking to soldiers as he and Mikleo visited the town, asking about Zenrus. Dezel still proved to be a seraph full of mystery.

"Sorey, are you listening?" Mikleo’s voice brought him out of his musing.

Absentmindedly playing with his feather earing as he watched Dezel work, Sorey’s gaze turned back to Mikleo who was glaring at him, hands on his hips.

"Hum, sorry, I wasn't really listening." He confessed, running a hand through his hair.

 Rolling his eyes in annoyance, Mikleo elbowed Sorey, "I was telling you we are in front of the last home we have not visited yet, and still no trace of Gramps!" he punctuated his phrase with another jab.

Sorey's shoulders slumped with the understanding that they were running low on options. Still, he wasn't about to give hope just yet. "If no one saw him here it means we have to visit every town in Serdio until we find more clues." He said with conviction.

"You'll be more than happy to do so." Mikleo sighed, hiding a small smile behind his hand. Sorey’s hopefulness was contagious, "All right, but we still have the midwife to ask first of all." Mikleo added as he pushed open the door of the town midwife.

"A midwife?"

Sorey’s question remained suspended in the air as a woman turned toward them. Full of smiles, the portly woman opened her eyes wide as she acknowledged their presence.

"Oh my, I'm not sure a seraph and a human can conceive but I'm pretty sure two male can't." Mikleo's immediate splutter and Sorey's reddening had her thinking she may have made a small mistake, "Unless…" she started to try to correct herself wiping a glass bottle as she pondered her words, "One of you his biologically female. In that case you must forgive me for my mistake."

It was the last straw for Mikleo and he almost exploded, "We aren't here to discuss about having children!" His tone was more aggressive than what he would have wanted, and he had covered his mouth to hide his embarrassment.

Sorey chuckled nervously beside him, "Actually, we came in town with the princess and the others."

The midwife seemed confused, she blinked at them. They stood too close to each other to be just friends and they didn't have the brother vibe either. It became evident the more she looked at them. Ah, young love could be quite confusing. She was reminded of her younger years.

"You are visiting a famous midwife so I naturally thought you were here to talk about children. Most people visit me only for that nowadays. "She said as she sat in a rocking chair, "So you came with the princess Alisha, I was her midwife too you know. That girl was a beauty from the day she was born and strong too." She talked before either of them could utter a word, obviously happy to have some kind of conversation in that time of war.

Her gentle voice and kind smile prompted them to listen without interrupting, she played with her brown hair a bit when she considered continuing her story. The human boy looked interested, his green eyes curious and briefly glancing at his friend.

"Then you must have known her family before the war?" Sorey asked.

Still coming down from his embarrassment, Mikleo looked at him, one of his eyebrows rising in interrogation.

"Yes, but her mother being of low status and the king dying a few months after her birth made her the last in the line for the throne. I was so proud of her when she took upon herself to train as a knight in order to serve the kingdom. "

"She is impressive, isn't she?"

Sorey's words made Mikleo look away, his gaze falling somewhere near the shelves where the midwife kept her herbs.

"Thanks to lady Maltran’s training. She was like a mother to Alisha, yet she defected to Sandora a few years ago. I heard the princess had a hard time recovering after that, she was even suspected of treason." The midwife’s flow of words suddenly stopped as she put a hand over her mouth. "Oh dear, I think I have talked too much, it isn't really my place to tell you about that, even more if you both are the princess's friends." She looked really ashamed of having let all that information slip. It was rather personal on Alisha.

"Don't worry. We won't talk about that if she didn't want too. And I'm sure we eventually would have learnt that from someone else anyway. The soldiers like to talk a lot." Mikleo intervened to reassure the midwife, "We are sorry to have abused you of your time and any other time we would have been more than happy to talk more with you but it's getting late and we did come here for another purpose."

Sorey pouted at Mikleo’s quick dismissal of the midwife. He was rude brushing her away like that when she obviously needed some company. Still, Mikleo was right, night was falling and there was something ticking over in his mind that he needed to take care of.

"It's not often I get to talk with young handsome boys, usually their pregnant wife is the center of my attention. So don't feel sorry for abusing my time as you say. Go ahead and ask your question, I'll answer as best as I can."

Now that she closed her eyes and reclined in her chair, Sorey could see she too bore the same tiredness the town people had. For every other person they had interrogated, he had let Mikleo do the asking; now he felt like it should be him this time.

"Have you, by any chance, received the visit of an old seraph called Zenrus? He is rather short and looks frail but he is in fact quite strong and went to travel alone."

The midwife’s eyes opened wide once again, "Zenrus? My, are you the sons he talks so much about?"

Sorey and Mikleo exchanged a glance, happiness pulling their lips up. Finally someone here knew their Gramps.

"Yes! He is our Gramps. Please tell us you saw him." Sorey’s desperation surprised Mikleo.

They both cared very much for their Gramps, but it struck Mikleo now that he had thought he was the only one who truly understood the situation. Sorey seemed so carefree over everything, so happy to discover the world. Now, Mikleo knew how much he was wrong, the burden on Sorey was heavy too.

He was sharing it with him.

"You just missed him. He came by what, maybe two, three weeks ago? It is strange, he should have gone back home by now." She looked at them with concern, and then shook her head, "I could only guess he had persisted in visiting his friends in Sandora. The resurgence of the war makes travelling harder."

His gaze falling at his feet in defeat, Sorey’s hand closed in a fist. Again Gramps escaped them and they only gleaned vague clues about what he was doing. It made him think he didn't know his gramps as much as he thought. Pushing away the unknown feeling that wanted to reach him proved to become harder each time Sorey learned that Gramps had secrets he wouldn't even share with his sons.

"Thank you very much for you time miss. At least now we won't be looking too much in the dark." Mikleo’s voice pierced right through the fog forming in Sorey’s mind.

The woman started to rise from her chair, intending to see them to her door but Sorey having guessed how tired she really was, was quick to make her sit back.

"Don't bother. It was nice talking to you, we'll gladly visit again."

Chuckling, the woman covered Sorey's hand with her own, "Thanks to you. Do visit when you both are ready to talk about children. I can help you with adoption too." Again, Sorey let out a small embarrassed laugh as Mikleo took him away to drag him out from the door, hissing a quick farewell at the midwife.

He let out a weary sigh as he tried to bask in the fresh air outside, cheeks red and burning up.

The night was slowly falling over Hoax walls, plunging the town in a fake quietude. As Sorey took in the sight of the people retreating to their home safety, of the guard watching over the wall, waiting for the enemy, it became evident he couldn't ignore this feeling anymore.

"I want to do something for them, Mikleo."

The seriousness in Sorey's voice helped Mikleo focus and forget about the humiliating thing that just happened with the midwife. He posted himself in front of Sorey, hands on his hips and blocking his vision of the town.

"I thought you would never ask." His smile was a bit sad.

"You-you, I thought you would never agree!" Sorey grabbed Mikleo's shoulders, "And I would have followed you because Gramps came first, but now we knew he his right behind the front line and we can't reach him. And those people, there is a dragon coming right toward them and-"

Abruptly stopping his rant, Sorey took his time to properly look at Mikleo. Of the way he was patiently waiting for him, a knowing look in his violet gaze. It all came crashing into him. How much Mikleo had been supporting him all along. He had agreed to Sorey’s decision even before it started to bloom in Sorey's mind. Mikleo had been following him until this very moment and Sorey had thought it was the contrary, that he was the one following Mikleo.

"You know we won't be able to avoid killing if we pick a side, right? It's a war. And you must be aware," Mikleo had to breathe carefully because saying it out loud made it real and it was almost painful, "The chances of a peaceful outcome are thin, almost nonexistent."

Mikleo had to end Sorey’s silence, at the same time making sure the other was well aware of what he was stepping into. Not that he doubted Sorey’s intelligence, but it was another time Sorey could act on impulse before thoroughly thinking about the consequences of his decision.

The truth was whatever his answer, Mikleo was ready to support him.

Like he was only now considering Mikleo's words, Sorey’s finger ran over the handle of his ornamental sword. Looking at his feet, his face became somber but Mikleo could tell he was carefully weighing his decision.

"I'll do what I can to avoid killing or I won't be true to myself, but I'm ready if it came to that. It’s just… if there is a chance to talk about peace with Sandora’s emperor, I want to meet him. "Sorey’s jaw was set as he looked up, his eyes boring into Mikleo's, "I can't just be watching on the side anymore, I can't just let those people suffer and do nothing about it. I want to help them."

Mikleo’s smile was as bright as it could be coming from him, it blinded Sorey enough that he didn't see how it didn't reach his eyes, "Then I'll be with you. Let's go find Alisha to see what job she can give us."

Even though seraphim gained their energy from the mana naturally flowing into all living things and thus don't need to sleep or rest, falling asleep had become a habit for Mikleo. Usually, he slept very lightly, undisturbed and woke up early to help with the chores Gramps would give him and that only a seraphim could do. He could count on his fingers the times he had slept tightly enough to dream.

That’s why when he became conscious of the fact that he was dreaming, he was flooded with a sense of uneasiness. It was like being underwater, with his hearing muffled and his vision clouded, yet were he in his natural element he always felt safe because he was fully in control of his environment here he couldn't even will his body to move properly. Mikleo loathed the fact he could only be a witness of what his mind wanted to tell him. He could only hope it would be a pleasant dream.

He had a feeling it was not.

His surroundings were familiar. He had climbed that slope a million times before. The shape of the wall he was leaning against had no secret to him. Yet even with that familiarity everything was too distorted, vague, unreal, and every time he took a breath Mikleo was remained that he was in fact dreaming.

Mikleo was waiting for something at the Mabinogio ruins, and there was a huge chance it was in fact Sorey

Somewhat relieved Mikleo still couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong in this dream. Granted that dreams weren't something accurate and it was normal for weird things here and there. Mikleo just wasn't used to dreaming at all.

Or maybe the looming presence of the Everlasting Moon had something to do with Mikleo's bad feeling. It shouldn't have been visible from that side of the mountain and it shouldn’t have been this close.

The moon had been there since they left Elysia’s safety, day and night, unmoving in its place high in the sky. The star was worshiped by humans and seraphim alike, numerous tales and legends surrounding it. It had always been a constant in everyone’s life, yet Mikleo never liked that huge piece of rock to begin with. A star that lay unmoving when the sun and the smaller moon never strayed from their course around the earth was too unnatural for him.

In his contemplation of that dreamed moon, Mikleo failed to notice the sky darkening, shadows slowly descending the wall behind him. Time seemed to act a bit strangely in dreams too.

It was when as he finally felt a presence coming toward him from the thicket surrounding the ruins and after a large cloud had started to cover the moon that Mikleo's eyes deviated from the sky.

His gaze landed on the figure slowly approaching him.

"Sorey!", Mikleo watched as his dreamt version called for his best friend.

The figure was shrouded in darkness, both from the trees and the night creeping in and when the person stopped moving, the wind carried the strange looking cape they wore, making it flutter in front of them. Yet Mikleo was sure it was Sorey.

"Mikleo." he responded.

It was indeed Sorey's voice and Mikleo’s arms unwinded from around his torso as he stepped away from the wall and closer to Sorey.

 He had spoken so softly, like he was inviting him, a beacon… something was wrong, really really wrong.

The large cloud passing over the moon eventually went away, revealing a glowing red moon, ruby light replacing the shadows. Mikleo knew there was a legend about the moon glowing red every one hundred and eight years but he was certain the last one happened seventeen years ago, when the Black Monster destroyed his and Sorey's village.

At least Mikleo was now sure that his dream was in fact a nightmare.

The red light emanating from the moon enlightened Sorey's figure, and at last Mikleo could see his face.

But it wasn't the Sorey Mikleo left when they went to sleep. This one had sunken eyes, dull green staring back at Mikleo lifelessly, his skin had an ashen tone like he hadn't seen the sun in a while, and a weird smile crossed his face like it was a scar under his nose. The light from the moon wasn't making it any better; it made him look even more otherworldly than he already felt like.

Sorey’s dark red shirt was covered by that strange cape, and even in the red light Mikleo could tell it was black, intricate patterns painted in gold adorned it. It's been years since the last time Mikleo saw Sorey wear red.

Putting his hand in front of his mouth trying to stifle the choked sound that wanted to come out as guilt spread out in his body and mind, because something happened to Sorey, something bad and it could only have happened because Mikleo failed him.

 Mikleo took a step back. Or he tried to because Sorey had already crossed the distance between them, grabbing his arm to prevent him from going away.

Whether it had been a play of the red light or not, Sorey looked like he hadn’t had that creepy smile on in the first place. His lips where a thin line, broken and dry, like he had chewed on them too much.

"It's calling me, Mikleo." he said in a monotone voice, eyes staring straight at Mikleo's, "It wants me back. It needs me. Can't you hear it? "

Sorey looked around them, but Mikleo didn't see anyone else in the forest nor had he heard anything besides the ruffling of leaves in the trees. Sorey’s grip on his arm was light, yet Mikleo didn't try to break free, even though Sorey was making him uncomfortable. Something happened to Sorey and Mikleo needed to know what, he needed to fix this.

"Wh-what happened to you? I don't understand Sorey, who is calling for you?"

Mikleo flinched when Sorey’s hands moved along his arms to land on his cheeks. He held Mikleo’s face lightly, gently caressing his cheekbones with his thumbs. His hands were gloved but one of the gloves was fingerless and Mikleo could feel the roughness of Sorey's skin on his. It was icy cold, almost like tiny blades threatening to dig into Mikleo's skin.

And it was wrong because it was Sorey; Mikleo shouldn't feel threatened by Sorey's touch.

One of the fingers finished it exploration of Mikleo's face and landed on his lips, slightly parted in an attempt to protest and the said protest died in the process. His anxiety slowly fading as the cold touch persisted on being gentle and patient, Mikleo had to struggle not to close his eyes in bliss as it started to leave tiny fires in its wake.

"I need you… You promised to help me… always…" Sorey whispered somberly, a sense of betrayal lining his words.

Attempting to remove Sorey's finger away so he could function properly, Mikleo managed to regain the use of his mouth, "That's what I'm trying to do but-"

"Shush, it won't be long. I'll just take what I need. You'll help right?"

Sorey’s smile was everything like the Sorey Mikleo had grown up with, completely eclipsing the stranger Mikleo had been confronted with and he nodded in approval.

Anything for Sorey.

The moment Sorey chuckled sucked every ounce of contentment Mikleo had willed from this moment away. His breath caught in his throat when Sorey’s nose nuzzled his, and he felt bile rising.

It was wrong, it wasn't Sorey.

"You don't know how much this makes me happy, Mikleo."

This wasn't happiness in his voice, it was something vicious, perverted and Mikleo wanted that thing away from him. His struggle was short lived because the gentle fingers of Sorey’s hand were now holding his chin in a vice grip and the thumb that had been stroking his lips was now forcing them open.

"Focus on me; I'll try to reduce the pain as much as possible."

And then the monster that bore Sorey’s face was smothering Mikleo’s lips with his, crushing and bruising them. His tongue was entering Mikleo's mouth, choking, forceful, and voracious. He bit on Mikleo’s tongue and then his lips, breaking the tender skin before hungrily lapping had the blood he had drawn, yet Mikleo didn't push him away.

In shock, Mikleo held no resistance.  He choked back whimpers because while he was receiving something he had wanted so much for Sorey to give him, this wall all wrong, this was not what he had wanted at all. The fear was too much.

His eyes were wide open, staring blankly, incredulously into Sorey's. The imposter’s green eyes have a satisfied glint in them, as if Mikleo's helplessness was making him happy.

The pain came much stronger than what Mikleo should have felt from a dream. That should have been the moment he woke up covered in sweat but instead he felt every one of his ribs gave way and crack under Sorey's pressure. He felt the warmness of his blood pouring out from the open wound on his chest. He felt Sorey's deft fingers probe and close around something. The coppery tang of blood flooded his mouth and he was choking on it beside Sorey's tongue.

Then next moment, Mikleo knew he should have been dead but the dream continued to torture him and he had to watch as Sorey pulled out his still warm heart from his chest and nuzzled it against his cheek.

Sorey was spreading Mikleo’s blood on his face with that sick grin back.

"I'll take great care of this Mikleo."

Finally that's when Mikleo was released from this awful nightmare’s clutches. But the pain in his chest was still here, agonizingly real. He couldn't breathe properly, his lungs were burning from hyperventilating yet he couldn't breathe. His hand clutching at his aching chest Mikleo jumped when he felt a hand on his thigh.

"Mikleo?"

Sorey's soft, drowsy voice helped Mikleo regain footing on reality. He was with the real Sorey here. Peering at him with half-lidded eyes, reaching a hand from the cot he was laying on and clearly disturbed in his sleep by Mikleo was Sorey, the real one.

Coughing slightly and willing himself to take deep breath, Mikleo blinked to clear his vision as he finally took in his surroundings. He was far away from Elysia, he had fallen asleep on a cot loaned by the garrison in Hoax with Sorey right beside him. He was in a dim lit room that served as soldier barracks.

Few gazes had turned toward him before the soldiers had gone back to sleep, as it seems war had made them used to seeing nights terrors.

Sorey was rubbing his eye sleepily, standing up to reach Mikleo's back and start rubbing it.

"Everything is okay. It was just a nightmare."

Mikleo gulped, still struggling a bit to breathe as he turned toward Sorey still drowned in the emotions his nightmare burdened him with. Seeing Sorey’s concern, green eyes alight with intelligence and not maliciousness helped. At that moment, the need to just lean on Sorey, to nestle on his arms and forget everything else was so strong that Mikleo’s will wavered but he caught himself before it was too late.

Mikleo sighed through his nose, faking a smile as best as he could, "It's fine."

His hand rose to run through his hair, lightly touching the circlet hidden behind his bangs. The jewel was so warm, not burning but far from the coldness Mikleo was used feeling there.

"You should go back to sleep there is a few hours left before your watch duty." One of the soldiers told them, implicitly telling them to stop disturbing the others well-earned rest.

Sorey nodded at him and lowered the volume of his voice," He is right but maybe we can get you some fresh air before?"

Shaking his head, Mikleo squeezed his pants, "No, you need all the rest you can get. I'll go alone." To be honest, even if his presence was reassuring him, he needed some time away from Sorey.

Wanting to protest, Sorey’s words were cut by an irrepressible need to yawn. He rubbed his nape sheepishly after such obvious display because Mikleo wouldn't buy it if he told him he wasn't tired now.

Even with how reluctant he was to go back to sleep, Mikleo had little trouble coaxing Sorey to lie down again. The journey was harder on Sorey than he would let on, but he couldn't fool Mikleo and Sorey would be getting to rest whether he wanted it or not. A few weak protestations and another yawn later and Mikleo was pulling the cover over Sorey making sure he was tucked in before leaving the room. Soon, green eyes were fluttering at him and Mikleo had to resist the urge touch him, to caress his hair.

The next instant he was outside, trying hard to banish Sorey’s image from his brain.

Mikleo was surprised by the cold that assaulted his skin. He rubbed his upper arms, stubbornly setting his eyes right in front of himself. He knew that moon was there over him, taunting him, it always was. It took Mikleo a few seconds before his natural power regulated his body temperature, and then the cold was only a memory.

 Mikleo breathed in, allowing the air from outside to fill his lungs, refreshing and distracting.

He walked a bit around the rampart walk, emptying his head. The rhythmical sound of his feet acted like a metronome to his mediation.

 The town was all but silent now that the night life had risen. The forest being near, owls accompanied Mikleo's wandering like a chant. The torchlight lighted the night enough he could see far over the wall. If the dragon decided to come tonight everyone would see it approach. Well, scouts reported him a day or two away so he will have to wait some more to settle his score with it.

With all the black he wore Mikleo didn't see Dezel before he walked by him, almost startling when he heard him sigh loudly.

"It was true you finally joined in the war." Dezel said, looking far away in the night.

Mikleo’s eyes narrowed at him. Dezel was leaning on the wall near the forest, one leg dangling over the wall. He was obviously reading the wind, his posture allowing his whole body to be caressed by them. For all he could say, Dezel could have been put on watch duty too, yet Mikleo had the impression he was being judged.

He crossed his arms over his chest. For once that Dezel said the first words; Mikleo wasn't denying him a conversation.

"What about you, then? What are you doing here, standing where a guard should be? Uno told us that it’s very rare for seraphim to work with humans but you seem to care a lot about them." calling Dezel out felt good.

Even with his eyes hidden and closed, Mikleo could tell Dezel was glaring at him. Clicking his tongue, the wind seraph returned his attention to the forest below. He had one of his pendulums in hand and was lazily playing with it in his palm.

"Youngsters should learn it's rude to ask a seraph about is life choice." He briefly grinned at Mikleo's reaction, the water seraph’s mouth working at trying to form an objection, "Yes, I'm on guard duty just like you, the Sparrow Feathers are on their way, I do what I can to make them safe."

Biting his lips, Mikleo started to feel bad for having taken some pleasure on teasing Dezel. Somehow, it just looked like he was played with and that Dezel was teasing him just as much, still Mikleo was affected by Dezel’s words about making his friends safe.

"You care a lot about them."

That he could understand.

Mortification crawled through him when he let out a squeaking sound the moment Dezel's hand landed on top of his head. No, he had been right in teasing Dezel. Yet Mikleo's shoulders lost some of their tension when Dezel started to gently ruffle his hair.

"It's… I don't want to have that conversation with you. I don't like talking about the past."

Feeling bold, Mikleo smirked, "You were more talkative after a few drinks, don't you remember? Well, you were mostly complaining about Rose being a torturer and always putting herself in danger more that she needed to." He held his chin between his fingers in thought, memories of the night of the feast becoming clear, "Though we were talking about the fact that was exactly what you liked doing."

This time it was Dezel’s turn to look mildly offended, spluttering and groaning under his breath as he set both feet back on the wall walk, standing up to tower over Mikleo.

"You've got some nerve, kiddo."

There wasn't a hint of threat in his stance as he started to finger the hem of his hat, he clicked his tongue again because that conversation was becoming exactly what he wanted to avoid, and still there was only one way to make Mikleo stop prodding him.

"I wasn't the only seraph protecting them before. The job was easier back then, less worry, more fun. Plus Rose was just a kid back then, not the bundle of trouble she is now."

There was an uncharacteristic fondness seeping out from Dezel, his nostalgic smile telling Mikleo how much he missed those times. Then that expression morphed, Dezel’s features taking back their hardness, warning Mikleo about asking too much.

"What happened, did the others (leave?" he tried

Dezel’s glove creaked as he squeezed hard on his pendulum, "War happened."

A sympathetic silence fell over them while Mikleo contemplated changing the subject but realized he didn't want to talk that much.

"I think I'll go to the kitchen and fetch something to eat, do you want me to bring you something?" he offered.

Dezel shrugged, "An apple would be good."

"I'll try to find that." Mikleo told him, his feet carrying him back toward the stairway.

As Mikleo told himself he would never understand wind seraph he acknowledged that Dezel wasn't so bad.

Suddenly, Mikleo stopped in his tracks, a frown settling over his brows. The night had become completely silent, deadly silent. The night owls had stopped their hooting.

The next moment a scream pierced through that silence, coming from the other end of the wall walk. Chills ran down Mikleo’s spine and he looked out for Dezel, summoning his staff as the dreaded words resonated around the town.

"The enemy is coming!"

Soldiers came out of every side in full gear, hurrying to go defend their post. Already Mikleo could hear arrows stifling, and echoes of war cries resonated around him. A woman’s voice rose above all of the commotion.

"Knighthood, advance! Fortify the gate! You, take the civilians to safety!"

Rushing down the stairs as he heard Alisha’s voice give quick orders, Mikleo ran toward her. An arrow struck a man beside him and Mikleo stopped to cast a quick healing spell. The man’s thanks couldn't reach over the sound of his blood pumping too quickly in his temple.

"Where is Sorey?" Alisha asked when she saw him coming.

"I don't know! I wasn't with him!"

Mikleo wasn't about to let panic settle over him, it wasn't his first battle. He had already done that in Hellena. He had faced a dragon and survived. He would go through this, as long as he could be sure Sorey was safe. He should have never left his side. How much more would he fail him before it would be the last time?

A hand on his shoulder made him jump.

"Come, we'll counter the ones that managed to enter."

There was no discussing Dezel and Mikleo followed him, "Ye-yeah."

They fought side by side again as soon as Mikleo managed to concentrate on casting an arte. Ice shards rained down upon the enemy that would get too close. Mikleo heard Dezel’s shout of victory and taunt over his own chants.

 His staff twirled elegantly in his hands, making an arch in the air and hitting the ground as he used it to catalyze and guide his powers. Water surrounded him, making the very air Mikleo took lungful of wet.

The few Sandorians that: breached surely weren't expecting two seraphim at once. Water and wind combined to repel them. Still, there was battling all over the town, and that was as much as they both could do, surely they would stand their ground but how long would the town hold?

"The gate! They breached the gate!" Another scream rang above everything else.

A curse crossed Dezel’s mouth and Mikleo was close to let one out too just as a low hum resonated around them.

"Mikleo! The ground!"

Dezel's warning barely reached Mikleo’s ears when he felt the ground give way beneath his feet. Quick reflexes moving his body before his mind could protest saved Mikleo from falling right in the pit that formed right where he was standing a second before.

"Your name is Mikleo? So, I almost caught a Meebo."

A petite girl was standing near the large hole, short blond hair, which becomes a brighter yellow toward the tips and fair skin. The short yellow and white dress she wore was far from anything someone would wear on a battle ground. She was idly twirling an umbrella resting on her small shoulder.

"An earth seraph." Dezel growled. "I heard the rumor about a seraph looking like a small girl… it wasn't her after all."

"And we have a captain obvious too." She deadpanned.

"State your business with us!" Mikleo recovered from his shock at seeing that small girl that didn't belong in that bloodbath.

"You dummy, aren't you with the Basil army?" she asked as she closed her umbrella and put the end of it on the ground. "I'm here to kill you obviously."

She didn't even need to chant, she just struck the ground with her booted foot and the ground leveled, earth spikes as sharp as a lance running toward Mikleo at a fast pace.

There was no way he could dodge this time, closing his eyes as he anticipated the earth lance to run through him, Mikleo stopped breathing.

A bright light penetrated through his closed eyelids, prompting Mikleo to open them just as transparent wings, feathers like clear glass passed in front of him. A dagger cut the earth lance in bits, pebbles falling at Mikleo’s feet and then a voice as clear as the sound of a bell echoed in his mind, making his brain pulse with every intonation.

"Wake up!"

Mikleo’s eyes landed on the form hovering right above them, pointing its dagger at him. The glass like wings were beating gently, keeping their owner up. It was a woman, a heavy plated armor as black as the night sky covering her body, intricate carvings making the thing otherworldly, that and the wings attached to it, light from the torch making small rainbows highlight on them.

He wouldn’t recognize the mask she wore anywhere but her dive to save Mikleo made her hood fall off her head revealing shoulder length red hair. A particular shade Mikleo saw only once.

"Dragoon of the Blue-Sea Dragon!"

His eyes widening in understanding, Mikleo felt the warmth spread from his forehead. Blue light, soothing and familiar emanated from behind his bangs, he heard a song fill his ears, he felt his mana shift inside his body.

The blue devoured him, so bright it was almost unbearable to the naked eyes. The need to let out a cry as power surged within him became impossible to retrain and Mikleo’s scream drowned all other sound from the battleground.

The intense light surged, icy cold as it hit the seraph girl’s body, she tried to use her umbrella to shield herself from the unknown arte but it was no use. She was knocked back off her feet, heavily landing away from the others. She lay there unmoving, having been knocked unconscious by the sheer force of Mikleo's new power.

Dezel's blind eyes were locked on her before he could turn his attention back toward Mikleo. The woman with the black armor had landed near him, carefully taking her mask off because she knew she had been recognized anyway.

Rose shook her head, freeing her red hair from her clothe confine as Mikleo’s light started to dim.

Now that it wasn't painful to look at him they saw he was flying a few feet above ground, glass like wings carrying him, lightly dusted by a sheen of frost.

Gently, as he regained his conscience of self Mikleo landed. His light clothes had been replaced by armor, carved the same way as Rose's. But his consisted of a tight corset hugging his waist and chest, a golden orb glowing right below the low neckline, his wings fixated on small shoulder-pads. White legging covered his otherwise naked legs, they had holes on the inner thighs and on the calves revealing much of Mikleo's skin. A pair of blue gauntlets and gloves covered his arm. High heeled boots completed his Dragoon armor.

His trembling hand reached to touch his circlet, but instead his finger ran over a blue headband feeling seven golden orbs on it, the shape of his circlet remaining as a carving.

"What happened?" He breathed.

"Mikleo!"

Hearing Sorey’s voice calling him felt like Mikleo's world started to turn again. Seeing him, ornamental sword in hand and sweaty from battle made his heart beat right again.

Mikleo’s armor dissipated in an explosion a soft sparks, like snowflakes carried in the wind.

"Sorey. I'm so relieved."

The next thing Mikleo knew, black had filled his vision and he momentarily felt the hard ground hit his back. Unconsciousness felt like a welcomed gift he couldn't refuse.

Chapter Text

He could hear snippets of conversation around him, but nothing really reached his ears. Alisha's voice sounded distant and muffled even if she was right in front of him. He could hear Rose's voice too, slightly growing in volume as the conversation went on. Their argument seemed serious and agitated, judging by the way they both spoke with their hands. 

It took Dezel’s intervention for the room to grow quiet again, Alisha reluctantly sitting back in her chair. She looked tense and tired, her features drawn as she resumed fiddling with a loop of her armor. 

Dezel was back against the windowsill arms crossed on his chest as he silently watched over the girls.  

The subject of their bickering escaped Sorey, yet he could guess Alisha was upset about Rose’s reluctance to explain herself. He could understand why she preferred to wait for Mikleo to wake up, he was the most concerned about her need to explain the events that transpired in the night.  

Rose’s gaze avoided looking at Alisha, just like she avoided looking at Sorey or at Mikleo. She wore the very proof that she kept secret from them, the dark attire covering her body was far from the bright blue and white colors she wore when working as a merchant. Now she was dressed like a spy, or something else... not that Sorey could really guess. Nevertheless, it was now obvious that she wasn't really who she pretended to be.  

Dezel keeping silent was nothing new, but his tightness was something unusual. He must had known what Rose was and kept her secret but he at least showed remorse on not telling them when they had put their trust in him. 

Sorey wasn't angry at any of them lying. But He wasn't okay with that either. Maybe they had befriended them for a purpose and it's been faked all along. It was only Sorey’s gut telling him it wasn't that simple that prevented him from having an opinion before he knew the whole truth. Rose’s blue eyes were too honest to be lying continuously. Her smile had been too genuine when she had feasted with them.  

She was their friend. Sorey had no doubt about that. 

With things keeping piling up like they did and his mind currently a jumbled mess of what ifs and scenarios, Sorey had trouble thinking more carefully about the actual situation. He didn't know what to make of all that, and to be honest he just didn't want to think about that right now. 

 Some of Alisha's armor was stained with carmine red; blotches of color creating strange patterns in a crude display of the night of battle they shared. Her right cheek was starting to take a black hue from where she was struck; the shape of the object that hit her was almost discernable. It was something round and long, maybe. 

It was a strange sight on her, but could Sorey say that he really knew all sides of her? It only struck him now that he barely knew the girl at all. 

Even if he observed them from the corner of his eye, Sorey couldn't really concentrate on anything the girls were discussing because his attention was completely focused on the young seraph lying limply on the infirmary bed next to him. Mikleo was the centermost of his inner turmoil. 

 It was the first time he saw a seraph faint, and it troubled him much more than he would let on.  

Mikleo was too still, too pale. His breathing was barely making any noise. Moreover it's been a few hours since the sun had raised and he should have awakened by now. Sorey kept racking his brain to find a reason, to find a solution or a meaning to all that. Yet he only came up more concerned. 

He could even feel a headache forming, whether it was from lack of sleep or overthinking it was annoying all the same. 

Rose’s words about Mikleo completely depleting his mana resonated in Sorey's mind but he couldn't recognize them. The concept wasn't foreign in itself. He knew that when a Seraph ran out of energy they would need rest and time to gather it back. It just never happened in Elysia while the village was populated of Seraphim of all kind. And he just couldn't picture Mikleo using all of his strength, cautious Mikleo who was perfectly aware of his own capacities and was less likely to overexert himself, yet here he was, lying on his back with his eyes closed still. Worrying Sorey to no ends. 

Usually, Mikleo never slept on his back. He preferred to sleep on his side and Sorey was grateful for this habit because it meant he was facing him when they shared a bed. It gave Sorey plenty of time to contemplate every subtle change in his expression under the moonlight as he pretended to sleep. Mikleo never remembered his dreams in the morning but Sorey knew better.  The slight frowning of a brow, the quiver of lips, the quiet sight and mumbles of jumbled words, Sorey knew all of them by heart. 

Years and years of doing that in secret and Sorey never went as far as touching Mikleo, it was better being allowed to watch Mikleo without any barrier. 

Sorey had given up on trying to ease the lump that had formed in his stomach the moment Mikleo fell right before him and couldn't ease the feeling that things would never be like they used to either. 

How could it be when Mikleo had awakened as a Dragoon? 

Sorey didn't need Rose’s explanation about what happened to know. He saw everything. The iridescent wings connected to Mikleo's back, the carved armor that looked like it was made of scales and the surge of power radiating from his best friend. 

The celestial record was opened on his lap. The author of the book had done a great job gathering legends, bas-relief, translating of the ancient tongue and history to paint a vivid picture of the Dragoon. It was writing right under Sorey's fingers. 

He who was chosen to be the knight of the Dragon, the Dragoon should hear the plea of the weak and fight to protect them.  

Well, the translation from the ancient tongue was a bit wacky for Sorey’s taste, but it had been translated from a partially faded carvings.  

Sorey traced the wings of the illustration the author of the Celestial Record conjectured from his research. The black and white drawing could never do justice and properly depict how beautiful Mikleo was. 

Somewhere, the first time Gramps showed them the old Dragoon spirit he had in his possession, a plain and round shinny purple stone, and first told them the legend of the chosen Seraphim, Sorey just knew. He always knew that Mikleo was someone special. Well, he was almost certain he knew before that but it made him very much aware of it. 

Having been witness of Mikleo's awesomeness was quite different from what he expected. The pride he expected and excitement were there but they were shadowed by his own confusion. 

Gramps never told them if he had been a Dragoon himself, their young minds had been too scared to ask more because Gramps was keeping what was essentially a crystalized Dragon soul under the same roof as them. He may have been trying to comfort them when he assured the boys that the spirit was dormant and would probably remain a mere stone forever now that the Dragoon war was a tale of legend more than actual history. 

Should Sorey be more worried about Mikleo’s Dragoon spirit waking up, now that he thought about it? 

One thing he was sure of was that Rose was responsible for Mikleo's Dragoon awakening.  

She kept looking at her black stone, just like the one Gramps had. She didn't try to hide that she also was a Dragoon anymore. Sorey's understanding of Dragoon may be based on tales from books and what Gramps was willing to tell but he was sure that a normal human couldn't handle Dragoon spirits. Only the Seraphim and Shepherd of legend could. 

Rose must be a Shepherd it was the only right conclusion, and he wasn't even willing to drown her in questions. 

Mikleo being a Dragoon was more fascinating than frightening, yet Sorey knew his excitement would be tempered until he was sure it wasn't something dangerous, something threatening to their bond. 

He couldn't help but to think of the implication of a Shepherd barging in his and Mikleo's life. As a child Sorey may have dreaded the certain separation that Mikleo being called by a Shepherd would bring upon them but now he was an adult… well almost an adult. If Rose had awakened Mikleo to make him participate in whatever fight against Evil, Sorey was coming with them. 

Sorey sighed softly through his nose, that was a riddle he couldn't resolve on his own. It wasn't that hard to admit he needed Mikleo to wake up so they could figure things out together. 

As if responding to his train of thought a weak groaning noise coming from the bed drew Sorey's attention back toward Mikleo just in time for him to see violet eyes flutter open. 

"You’ve come to." He breathed, a sense of relief flooded in his veins. 

Sorey’s words felt dry on his tongue, but there was nothing else he could say, everything was a blur of too many emotions and conflicting feelings. He was trying very hard not to listen to that voice deep in him whispering that he was losing Mikleo, that their world had grown further apart. If he kept ignoring it, it might make the one that told him that it was okay, that they could overcome that trial together, clearer and louder. 

Mikleo blinked at him as he tried to sit up, Sorey was beside him the next moment, helping him to stand against the cushion. 

"Easy. You fainted. How are you feeling?" Sorey forced out, uncharacteristically out of words. 

There were so many questions he wanted to ask at once, so many reassurances he needed to hear from Mikleo's mouth but they were too much at the moment and Sorey couldn't choose. 

"I- I was... I feel a bit off." Mikleo's hand reached in his hair, fingers brushing at his bangs and looking for a familiar shape. His confusion turning into a frown when he couldn't find what he was looking for, Mikleo looked frantically around him. "My-" 

"Here, I have it." 

Rose, leaned against the bed post, holding the golden jewelry by the hem on her fingers as she tried to smile reassuringly at Mikleo and Sorey wondered when she had took it away from his friend. Glaring at the girl for touching Mikleo's belonging when he was vulnerable won't do anything but Sorey couldn't help it. She kept acting in her discredit, nothing in her attitude showed she was trying to prove she had been truthful when pretending to be their friend 

Mikleo took his circlet away from her fingers and was quick to put it back on his forehead, looking relieved the moment his hair fell back to cover it. 

"I kept it safe for you." 

If Mikleo’s rise of an eyebrow told something it was his doubt about Rose’s intent but realization quickly replaced that expression on his face when he grasped the situation and the memories assaulted him, "You- Rose,  you were the one who saved me from that Dragon." He asserted. 

"Rose saved you?" Alisha's words mimicked Sorey's thought. 

"When the Dragon attacked me in the forest, she was the one who brought me to safety." Mikleo clarified. 

Shrugging, Rose looked at Dezel for help, "I couldn't just let that Dragon eat you." 

 Alisha put herself before the bed, searching Rose’s eyes, "Why didn't you tell us about that before? Why did you keep hiding your identity? "Alisha tensed again, a sense of betrayal in her eyes. 

Rose opened her mouth about to restart their earlier argument, but Sorey, not wanting the matter to be distracted by that closed the Celestial Record, making the pages slap together. He came up with a decision about Rose, she may have a hidden agenda, but if Mikleo wasn't mistaken she did save him and for that Sorey would forever be grateful. 

The soft thud of the book at least brought both girls attention to him. 

"I'm sure she could explain." He intervened, trying to appease the growing tenseness, "I suppose we should thank you for saving Mikleo."  

Following Sorey's words, Alisha’s shoulders relaxed a bit. He was right, Rose had never done anything that would harm any of them. Well something they were aware of anyway. 

Rose sighed, playing with the one of the beads holding her hair, she seemed a bit hurt at Alisha's mistrust, she looked for Dezel again and the seraph made a dismissive gesture with his hand. So, he indeed was aware of Rose's secret. 

"I followed you because I was feeling something from the artifact Mikleo owns."  

Again, Mikleo's hand absentmindedly reached to touch his circlet, "My mother's memento? But-" 

"The stone in the center is the Dragoon spirit of the Blue-Sea Dragon." She told him matter-of-factly, "It looked dormant, so I had to make sure you were a chosen one before revealing I'm a Dragoon too. People tend to fear what they can't understand." She waved her hand in an equivocal motion. 

This seemed to appease Alisha who breathed out and bit her lips in thought. 

Then to better emphasize her point Rose held her stone in front of Mikleo, the stone emitted a soft dark, almost purple light and soon the stone mounted on Mikleo's circlet responded in kind, blue white light gently glowing from under his bangs. 

"See, I didn't know for sure you were a chosen one, but I couldn't let that small earth seraph kill you either." Rose pocketed her stone, "You 'deserve' to rule the Dragons, the light shows the true evidence. From the time the Dragoon Spirit starts to shine, you have to accept your fate as a Dragoon." She recited 

Sorey perked up, "The missing part of the Dragoon songs." He mused, his gaze slowly going from Rose back to Mikleo. 

What she was saying was increasing Sorey's concern, yet it was incredible. Before him was the very proof Dragons and Dragoon had and still existed. Rose was a breathing and leaving artifact, but as much as he wanted to talk for hours with her about the subject he was also worried she decided to put Mikleo in the equation. What was the fate as a dragoon exactly? The legends talked about the rise of the Dragoon warriors against Hellions eleven thousand years ago not what happened after. It was a too obscure concept to grasp. 

Mikleo’s confusion was written on his face, his eyes round and his skin paler than Sorey ever saw. It was a lot to digest for Sorey, but it must be so much worse from Mikleo's side. He was the one whose very nature as a seraph changed. Sorey could only imagine how that felt. 

"I- I'm a Dragoon then?" Mikleo asked, confused by everything that was suddenly falling on his shoulder. Or more like crashed into him at full speed. "I didn't know my mother’s memento held so much power." 

"Well, it's nothing but a cold stone if it didn't meet the chosen one. I know it's a lot to take in. " Rose kept rubbing at her nape, searching for the right words, "I'm your Shepherd the one who conducted your mana to enact your transformation."  

Rose lips pinched and she almost flinched at the face Mikleo made when she pronounced the word Shepherd, and Sorey wondered if she somehow regretted having pushed her own fate as a Dragoon on Mikleo.  

"I hadn't been a Dragoon for long myself, so it's all new to me too. You are the first Chosen Seraph I had to wake." She admitted. 

So, if Sorey summed everything up, she had acted on a whim and was now as confused as them about what to do with another Dragoon. It looked like they were in a tight mess. 

"Why do you know about such things? You know about things that are not even written in any of the Archives I know about." Alisha asked, still unable to trust Rose’s intentions. 

At that, Dezel’s hand shot up, reaching for Rose’s shoulder. 

"You told them what they needed to know. Leave him out of that." He hissed. 

Gently pushing him away, Rose put her hand on her hip, she turned him a little away from the others. "Listen, I know you are angry the seraph girl wasn't who you were looking for. But I do need to be honest with them. Brad is dead, Dezel. And he would have agreed with me revealing myself to my friends. Plus, Mikleo is my Dragoon now. He is by extension an affiliate member of the Scattered Bones." 

Dezel grumbled low but finally threw up his hand in defeat, still Sorey heard him when he hissed between greeted teeth "Fine, be reckless and do whatever you want again. I'll have my revenge sooner or later with or without you." 

Sorey’s hand twitched involuntary when she said 'my' about Mikleo, it sounded so wrong in his ear, instead he tried to focus on the exchange between the two. 

"My mentor taught me. He couldn't be sure I would be a Shepherd and yet he taught me everything he knew; he was the wielder of the Black Dragoon before me. He didn't teach me much but I at least know how to use it and wake other spirits." She fiddled with the little cord on her knife holder, her face falling a little as she remembered her past. 

Alisha brought her hands together in front of herself, this was a bit much for her to grasp just yet. To say Dragoon of legend had lived under her nose for years and yet she saw nothing, she heard nothing. She felt a bit sad that Rose and whoever her mentor was chose to keep part of precious lost history to themselves. 

But how could she blame her? She witnessed the Dragoon power and she knew people would try to use it to win the war or worse.

Mikleo seemed really unsure. His eyes were looking at the bedcover as he quietly listened to Rose. Slowly he raised his gaze toward Sorey, seeking solace. Sorey’s smile conveyed everything he couldn't manage to say out loud. He brushed his hand against Mikleo's hand silently asking if it was okay to hold it, Mikleo didn't wait to take the offered hand. His features relaxed when Sorey squeezed gently, their fingers interlacing. 

Everything would be all right. It was a trial they would confront together 

"I-I don't know what it implies. I never agreed to be bound to you." Mikleo’s eyes narrowed at Rose. 

She looked quite offended by his harsh gaze, "Don't look at me like that. I was in a rush there, that earth Seraph nearly had you skewered." 

"She took me by surprise. But I was handling her just fine thank you." Mikleo hugged his chest with his free arm avoiding Rose’s fiery glance, "But thank you anyway, for trying to save me." 

Alisha shook her head, "Dragon and now Seraphim that look like little girls. Really, Sandora are not afraid going for anything to defeat Basil."  

"They retreated after you knocked that earth seraph out, they took her back with them. " Sorey told Mikleo." If she was strong enough to threaten you, I don't want to know what the dark haired one would have done to Elysia." He added biting his lips when his imagination conjured awful images. 

Dezel was on them the next moment, clutching the bed cover just beside Mikleo, "A dark haired Seraph? She looked like a little girl, like the Earth one?" 

Sorey was a bit startled, but showed no hesitation when he answered, "I don't remember much and she kept hidden behind the General but I'm pretty sure she was short and had dark hair. " 

"Yes, I remember her, she was the one in charge of the unit that pursued me through the forest to Elysia. " Alisha added, even though she didn't understand why Dezel seemed so troubled by that, "She followed the Sandorian soldiers until she was sure Sorey and I was put behind bars." 

"I knew it was her at Hellena." Dezel’s back straitened and his fist clenched at his side. "Rose, I know she'll try to finish her job, I have to keep looking after the Princess." He asserted, not really giving way to arguments. 

Alisha’s eyes opened wide. It wasn't the first time Sandora tried to kidnap her and she was certain it won't be the last time but Dezel offering didn't leave her any choice in the matter. "Do I have anything to say in this? I wasn't planning on taking a body guard." 

"And here you were saying I was the one recklessly doing whatever I want. " Rose crossed her arms over her chest but she didn't look angry, if Sorey was to take a guess he would say she looked saddened. "Princess, if I may, that seraph girl Symmone. She is quite dangerous, the Scattered Bones offer to keep you safe from her, you should accept." 

Rose took on her professional stance, all playfulness she could have had vanished to make her look more deadly telling Alisha she wasn't joking. But Alisha turned her eyes away from her. 

"I need time to think about it." She started twirling a lock of blond hair between her fingers, "I can't just accept protection from a group of spies to hire." 

Now Sorey recalled that was what their earlier conversation was about. Alisha had wanted to know who had hired Rose in this war, she had wanted to know which side she was on and Rose refused to tell anything because Mikleo needed to hear it too, Dezel broke them apart when he reminded Alisha that Rose was here in Hoax and not in Sandora. 

"What are the Scattered Bones, I thought your group was the Sparrow Feather?" Mikleo's question sounded before Rose could open her mouth and start arguing with Alisha. 

She gently hit her forehead with her palm, "I should have started by that. " Now it was a way to admit she had forgot he would obviously want to know, "The Scattered Bones are something like the darker part of the Sparrow Feather. We still are merchants, but we deal other goods on the darker side, the illegal ones." 

Mikleo scowled as he considered Rose. He had a hard time seeing her as a spy, she was too loud. "I can't just join your group because you made me a Dragoon. I still have my Gramps to find and-" 

Rose chuckled like she heard a good joke, ignoring Mikleo's glare when she interrupted him, "You take that too seriously, I'm not holding you captive you are free to go. It's just an old song, you know. Your spirit will fall back asleep if we are apart for too long, you could go back to your old life." 

A weight was lifted off of Sorey's chest, now that the mess in his mind cleared a bit, Sorey formed an idea he was impatient to share, and he didn't wait for permission to do it, "Rose! Gramps had a Dragoon Spirit too, maybe you could help us find him, I’m sure He would know a lot about yours-" 

A harsh knock cut Sorey’s proposition, instead they all turned their attention toward the door. 

"Is the Princess Alisha in here?" A breathy voice called, urgency sounding between ragged breath. 

The group shared a glance, dreading the information that man could bring. Everything else was left behind as Alisha invited the man in. 

 A soldier pushed the door open, looking pale and haggard and he immediately spoke up, "My lady, I bring a report." He quickly bowed then paled even more as he went on," The Seventh fort is under strong attack by Sandora." he told them without pausing to breathe.

"What?" Alisha was immediately beside him, her back as straight as an arrow. 

Sorey saw the twitching in her fingers like she itched to take her spear in her hand. He rose up too, taking in the man’s news. Suddenly, the situation had taken a turn for the worst. It wasn't just about Mikleo and the Dragoon anymore. Sorey had promised himself he would do anything to prevent more unnecessary slaughter in this war. But last night... he didn't even want to imagine what could be left of Hoax if Mikleo and Rose didn't make the Sandorians retreat.  

"The Seventh fort is under fierce attack by the Dragon in the Marshland," the man clarified, "The tenth and thirteen knighthood are overwhelmed, they need reinforcements." The man nearly fainted when he finished his report, instead he sat down on a nearby chair without any care about protocol. 

"Then the attack on Hoax was indeed a decoy. " Alisha mused, "They made the Dragon take the Volcano pass. I should have seen it coming."  

 If it wasn't for his study about Basil geography prior to his travel, Sorey would have been a bit lost. However, he could easily understand Alisha’s disbelief. Vilude Volcano indeed provided a path between northern and southern Serdio but if he remembered correctly it implied traveling between lakes of fire so hot that it melted stone, and a heat so strong you needed nearly a barrel worth of water for the travel duration, plus the pathways were as narrow as the Limestone Cave pathway. He had always dreamed about seeing it one day. Now it seemed but a distant dream. 

"Yes, we didn't know about the Dragon’s ability to fly. " The Soldier continued, confirming Alisha’s worries, "On the bright side, intel report it to have nested right on the other side, we now know where to strike." 

" Helping the Marshland fort is the priority, I'll send units to-" 

 Alisha started giving orders to the tired soldier, the man stood up listening attentively the moment she spoke about sending units. He was the first to send a harsh glare at Rose when she interrupted Alisha. 

"Wait, you don't know if the Dragon’s still there right. It's no use sending more people to be butchered, humans can't win against a Dragon." She shook her head, telling the bitter truth without holding back. "We can't know until we try. " Alisha turned toward her, slowly starting to inwardly burn," I can't stay still waiting for Basil to be annihilated." 

Was Rose Really expecting her to do that because she had that weird chivalrous need to intervene in Alisha’s life. Sorey winced at her tone. 

Rose wasn't bothered in the slightest, in fact she looked rather smug. "Your death wouldn't help them, Princess. But, you know a Dragoon can and will defeat a Dragon." 

Alisha eyes widened incredulously, having understood Rose’s implication but not believing it. Sorey must have reached the same conclusion as her but was more open with it because he suddenly burst out, grabbing Mikleo’s shoulder in glee. 

"She's right, Mikleo! Dragoon were said to have conducted Dragons during the Dragoon war, maybe you could really do something, we have the means to help now!" He enthused. 

More than used of Sorey’s weirdness by now, Mikleo weighed the possibility. He could go back to Elysia waiting for Basil to be taken over by Sandora, waiting for the war to reach their village, he could watch humans being offered in gruesome imitation of the Dragoon War sacrifice. He could try to prevent Sorey from being himself and go help, or he could act. He could use that power Rose and Amenoch offered him to protect Elysia, to protect Sorey. 

"Can I? I still don't know what it is to be a Dragoon… "  

He didn't know when Sorey had let go of his hand, but now he missed that warmth, he missed the way it prevented his own hand from shaking. Pulling on his sleeve to ease his nervousness, Mikleo’s violet eyes peered at Rose. Even he didn't want to admit it, she was the one holding the knowledge he needed right now.  

Maybe it would be wise to stick with her just a little while, until he figured out what he wanted to do with his Dragoon armor. He was a chosen one, just giving up on that power seemed wrong. 

When his head finally turned as he looked for Sorey, he found him already busy packing. Yes maybe it was wisest to listen to his heart for once. 

"You can feel it, right? That power within you. " Rose finally told him, having found in her the right words about her own experience." That's the power of Amenoch’s soul, the power born in you. The power she lends you." 

Hesitation overtook Mikleo once and again. All pairs of eyes were watching for his decision. 

"I know you don't trust me yet, but you can at least trust yourself. I'm taking on this Dragon with or without you but at least I can admit I'll need your help."  

Rose’s smile was full of her self-confidence. He saw her quickly sneak a glance at Alisha, making it obvious Rose wasn't doing that for herself but when he saw that look Mikleo knew she wasn't just trying to win the Princess over either. It made Mikleo reflect on his own feelings as he caught Sorey’s eyes, his green iris vibrating with pride and trust. 

He sighed, love was dooming him, "I will do it, I'll go stop the Dragon." He stood up from the bed staggering a little bit before squaring his shoulder.  

"I keep being indebted to you. Rose, Mikleo you are the only people we can count on." Alisha's gratefulness was unfathomable, but the smile she wore was more meaningful than words would ever be. 

Mikleo’s heart clenched painfully because he was the one to take it away from her. Shaking his head in disapproval, he took a step toward Rose for support as he spoke: 

" No. It’s too dangerous, Alisha, Sorey you need to stay here." 

He remembered his fear when facing the Dragon, when he saw his reflection on his lifeless eyes. When he thought he would never be allowed to say goodbye to the people he loved. When he thought he would never know the feeling of Sorey’s lips against his... it wasn't even close to what he felt when the snake had thrown deadly poison at Sorey. He would be more at peace battling a Dragon knowing he was safe. 

"Y-you are joking right? " 

Mikleo was prepared for Sorey’s protestation, yet he had forgotten how obstinate Alisha could be too. 

"They are my people! I need to go to the Marshland fort." She nearly screamed at him. Alisha saw red at Mikleo suggesting her abandoning her people, her outburst drowning Sorey’s quiet shock at Mikelo’s suggestion, "They are currently battling that Dragon as we argue about who'll save them and who will not. I told you I won't stay idle. I'm going with or without you. I don't need your approval." 

"You could try holding us in a cell because it won't even be enough to prevent us from following you, Mikleo." Sorey added, eyes burning. 

Alisha’s words helped Sorey come out of his torpor. He couldn't believe Mikleo wanted to leave him behind. It hurt. His chest felt constricted and a knot had formed in his throat. He nearly dropped the bag he had in hand, instead he touched the feather used to make his earring. A fond smile made his lips quiver as he thought back of when he had acquired it. Mikleo had tried to stop him when he had climbed to reach that Elysialark nest, he had been right that time because Sorey ended up falling and spraining his ankle, but now Sorey wanted to tell him how much he couldn't stand the idea of Mikleo facing danger alone. 

Rejection, it was what he was experiencing, right?  

Now that he knew the feeling, he wasn't ready to accept it without fighting. Mikleo knew better than to try to stop him when he really wanted to do something. He would prove that he won't be a liability. He opened his mouth to make his statement, supporting Alisha’s arguments. Rose was faster. 

 She shrugged. "I think they are safer with us anyway. You know Sorey better than me, but even I can tell he is stubborn enough to follow us even if we don't want him to." 

Mikleo was surprised by how little support he was getting, his argument was right, and Rose was the one saying humans couldn't stand a chance against Dragons. "Don't Rose, I don't want him near that Dragon." He shook his head, already feeling his Dragoon power stirring. 

To his utter surprise, Dezel took both Sorey and Alisha’s shoulder under his arms, bringing them against him, "I'll keep my eyes on them too." he smiled that smile full of sharp teeth of his. 

They both looked very content at Mikleo’s gasp of incredulousness. But their gazes were determined, there was no arguing with them, it was a lost cause and Mikleo knew it. They were all against him and he couldn't shut the part of him that told him he would regret it up.

While he looked in his mind to find the inner strength to willingly accept endangering Sorey's life, he felt Amenoch’s power flow in his veins as if responding to his doubt.  

Mikleo found out he had closed his eyes when they shot open, immediately finding Sorey’s expectant eyes he nearly drowned in that green, reminiscing of Elysia’s slopes, grass wet after a dew... Was it the way for his Dragoon spirit to tell him it would give him what he lacked to protect Sorey ? 

With a sigh, he gave them a resigned smile, "Dezel, " His eyes narrowed accusingly at Dezel, "You are blind." 

Chapter Text

Sometimes, even you had the best intentions in the world stirring your soul and your body, the worst couldn't be prevented to happen. And even if the group had gathered the entire means necessary to be at the Marshland Fort as soon as possible, it wasn't enough to prevent Alisha's eyes to be filled with grief when she processed the fact that there was no one left to save.

They had been too late.

At first it was a single fallen man, body half plunged into the swamp’s brackish water as they neared the fort. And Alisha rushed in, her feet carrying before anyone could react. They could only go after her. Soon it became evident that the fight for the fort had ended.

 The Fort tower had fallen upon the main building, crushing Alisha's hopes of finding survivors.

But then, they had heard voices coming from the back of the fort, and Alisha, ear and mind clogged by sorrow, had gripped her lance tight.

She had already engaged in combat with enemy soldiers when the others found her. Her battle cries ringing louder than the clatter of her lance against the men’s weapons.

Fortunately for her, they weren't many enemies left. Just a few men ordered to plunder what they could from the fort. She was handling them quite skillfully, her lance glinting in the low light as she twirled it deflecting swords. The man she was battling with was wearing more armor than the others around him, signs of his higher ranking.

 It looked like she had some trouble with the man’s broad-sword and as if on cue, the boys' call of her name resonated in the Fort courtyard. Hearing the princess’s name seemed to have disturbed the man because his next strike was weaker than the last, missing Alisha by a large margin. Being a trained warrior Alisha had no remorse using his moment of inattention to strike, her lance dealing major damage to the man’s armor.

Adopting a battle stance Sorey and Mikleo joined her without hesitation, leaving Rose and Dezel behind. Rose wanted to fight too but Dezel’s hand landed on her shoulder and he shook his head. Understanding passed between them and Rose backed a step away because she could recognize better than anyone that fight was Alisha's.

As Alisha fought the man in heavy armor, Sorey deflected a sneak attack on her, parrying a soldier with his ritual sword. Grunting in effort, he managed to push him away as Mikleo wacked him on the head with his staff.

Alisha had taken care of most of the other soldiers by the time they reached her. They could only witness her fight the last man standing, both of them having concluded it was better not to interfere.

Mikleo noticed Sorey looking away and he felt his friend’s discomfort echo in his chest. That feeling of helplessness, seeing Alisha burn all her strength in a meaningless fight was new and they didn't know how to react to it.

 Alisha’s fighting until then had been a beautiful sight. She was a careful warrior with graceful steps and movements but they couldn't recognize her now, her eyes filled with fury and her moves incoherent, aiming to kill.

The princess was making arte after arte rain down upon the man, channeling her rage and pain into her arms and legs. She was relentless, not caring about her guard or her surroundings.

She was so focused on him that she startled when the man let out a guttural groan as her lance pierced his belly. The heavy looking body had barely hit the ground before Alisha's knee gave way under her. She felt like wailing, her lungs burning from exertion but she couldn't. No sound came out. Her lance was resting at her side, still clutched in her palm and she couldn't let go.

Until now she didn't feel any hate for the Sandoras. They were two sides of one country at war and just like her they were soldiers obeying orders but at that moment she was shaking with hate. It burned her; it melted all her thought processes, it made her heart throb.

She had wanted all of them dead, she had wanted to kill all of them and avenge her fellow knights. Two knighthoods had been wiped out in one strike, and that was no warfare that was a massacre.

But now that there was no one to channel her rage on to it slowly morphed into fear and shame. Alisha had never let her emotions overcome her like that. After many years of training and many trials she thought she had learned to be better than that.

Until now she always had been able to control her emotions in order to be efficient in battle. If it wasn't for her reflexes, good instincts and muscle memory she was certain she would have lost a limb in her recklessness.

It hurt now that she saw through her rage. It was a like all the weight of the war fell on her shoulders all at once and she was struggling to support it. Her own thoughts scared her.

Her mentor's teachings kept echoing in her mind and she could feel them at her lips. All her life those words had been her mantra and even after Maltran left her, she never forgot them. It felt like she was the one betraying herself this time. They couldn't come out; Alisha was unable to speak them.

Arms circled around her shoulders and Alisha jumped a bit when her chin was pushed against Rose's shoulder. The cold seeping into Alisha's skin from the contact with the damp soil was forgotten in the warmth of Rose’s embrace. She was making circling motions with her hand on Alisha's back.

"It's okay. We're with you. It's not good to bottle it up. You can cry if you need to."

But the sting in Alisha’s eyes was starting to ease, the lump in her throat lessening because she wasn't alone anymore. Rose’s arms around her anchored her to the reality. It made her fully realize that she had friends that actually cared for her. She could cry and they wouldn't hold that against her.

"I let my anger consume me." Alisha breathed, ashamed of herself.

"You're only human, whatever training you went through, it's only normal to be angry when confronted with loss." Rose comforted, understanding.

 "It's not your fault, Alisha," Sorey stepped in her field of vision, gentle expression turning to awkward as he scratched his nape. "Ah, I'm not really good at this. What I mean is doing your best doesn't mean doing the impossible. You did what you can to try and save those soldiers, so please don't be so hard on yourself."

Phrase dying in a mumble, Sorey’s face reddened at the way Alisha looked at him. There was a sort of affection in her eyes that surprised him and left him speechless.

"Didn't know you had that in you. But I think she means being angry at the Sandoras." Mikleo said in a low voice, teasing Sorey while making him aware of his obvious misunderstanding.

"I know that too! But I don't know if I can give a lesson on that. Using a Dagon power was unfair and I share Alisha’s anger at the Sandoras. "Sorey turned his eyes away, scowling at the destroyed fort as he struggled to put a voice on his own feelings." But I know for sure that circle of hatred must stop. Revenge only brings ruin."

Mikleo blinked at him, stunned by the sincerity of Sorey's words. He knew they weren't aimed at someone in particular but he couldn't help thinking that Sorey was more perceptive than he let on.

"Sorey's right, "Rose interjected, patting Alisha’s shoulder as she helped her up, "The knights fought against a Dragon all by themselves they were very brave."

Once adrenaline and anger had left Alisha's bloodstream, there was nothing left but emptiness and aches. However her friends' words found purchase in her heart, making it pump a new strength in her, with the knowledge she wasn't alone any more in this fight. She nodded, still too worked up to talk much. Alisha was now certain that she had made the greatest friends she could have.

"Thank you so much for your support, Rose, Sorey." She mustered up

Mikleo bumped against Sorey's shoulder, smirking knowingly at him. He ignored the voice telling him it was just like as he predicted, the start of a blooming romance, hiding it behind playfulness.

Embarrassment postponed Sorey's retort enough for Dezel's voice to ring in the abandoned courtyard,

"Hey! This guy's still alive!"

The voice came from the inside of the building. No one really was certain when Dezel had parted from the group but they didn't dwell on it for long and followed the sound of his voice. The prospect of finding survivors invigorated them.

The sun penetrated the building by a huge hole in what remained of the ceiling, dust dancing in the white light beam. Their eyes grew accustomed to the dark soon enough, though navigating inside the wrecked building took much more time than Alisha would have liked. Dezel kept calling them to guide them.

Alisha coughed, dust filling her lungs after she inhaled too sharply when she spotted Dezel's unmistakable form in the penumbra. Dezel was standing beside a soldier uttering quiet words as the others approached.

"Princess!" the soldier gasped.

This time Alisha had no trouble showing a strong front to the fallen soldier. Though ignoring how half of the man's body was crushed under debris and stones was hard, she smiled at him and she took his hand in hers.

The glow of Mikleo’s healing arte was abruptly stopped when Dezel's hand closed around his wrist.

"It's no use."

Alisha heard the harsh whisper telling of the man’s hopeless condition but she kept her smile, offering that last vision to the soldier.

"You did well, the knighthood will be proud of you." Her own voice echoed inside her ears and for a moment she doubted she was talking to herself.

"Princess Alisha…the Dragon… we wounded it, it's gone back to its nest."

She held the soldier’s hand reassuringly, feeling pride swell her heart at the man’s words. She ignored the worry in her making her want to tell the man not to talk anymore, to tell him to preserve his strength because she knew it was the man’s last words.

As if on cue with her thoughts, the man’s breath caught, his next breath difficult and ragged as he let out a pained moan. His grip on Alisha’s hands weakened but he kept his unfocused eyes locked on her face.

"Beware…t-the Dragon breath…is…"

His eyes slowly clouded, his lips trembling under the strenuous effort it took him to talk. Then, his breath faltered again and he slowly let go of Alisha's hands as he breathed his last. Alisha's smile fell and she slowly stood up. Uttering a prayer for the seraphim to guide the soldiers' souls back to Soa, she squared her shoulders, her mind coming with a resolution. A purpose found in those warring times.

"We'll take care of the Dragon." Rose told her, voice firm.

"It's nest is close by. If it's back there to lick its wound then all the more chances on our side." Dezel added, fingers holding at his belt.

"I can't go with you anymore."

 Alisha’s assertion stopped the mood from spreading, surprising everyone with the resolve of her tone. She had made her decision and it was no use arguing over it

When he would have been the first to jump on the occasion to drive Sorey and Alisha away from the Dragon, Mikleo was astounded to find himself saddened by the princess's change of mind.

"I have to report to Basil about the Sandoras' breaching of the frontline and prepare to protect Bale. And…" She took a deep breath, confidence settling in her mind, "It's time for someone to hold out a hand in peace. I want to try convincing the council to negotiate a treaty. "She admitted.  Then with a sight she added, "I have to make sure the knights would have an honorable burial" She clarified, her head lowering back to gaze at the fallen soldier.

Sorey was the first to react to her announcement, taking her hands in his, "You have your own dream to follow."

When she looked into Sorey's green eyes seeking the understanding she heard in his words she surely didn't expect to find so many emotions barren to her. Sorey was happy she chose her own path, but he was undeniably sad that their paths would divert after that. Her gaze deviated toward Rose then Dezel and Mikleo respectively. The times spent with them however short it was had been the happiest she had in a long while. Moreover Alisha had the impression she had grew up because of them. She couldn’t express her gratefulness.

"Will you go back to searching for Zenrus after that?" She finally asked, already knowing the answer but needing to hear it for closure.

Biting his lips, Mikleo wanted to act if only to make sure Sorey would have a chance of romance with Alisha. She was the perfect girl for him even though he seemed blind to it. He needed to convince her to stay for a while, if only for them to have time to develop more feelings.

 Rose grinned and Dezel averted his gaze but she saw the corner of his lip flicker in a crooked smile while Mikleo’s face remained impassible, hiding his inner conflict. Mikleo thought he had made his resolve choosing  Sorey's happiness over his, yet as Sorey was about to respond to Alisha, putting a definitive distance between them, he said nothing. He didn't stop Sorey.

"We'll go to Lohan. It's where he was heading to." Sorey responded honestly.

Feeling his lips tremble with the want to say something, to insist that Sorey needed to be with another human, to tell him Alisha could go with them until Lohan, Mikleo could only bite his lips harder. The words wouldn't come out. It was like being betrayed by his own body.

It was time to be honest with himself. He didn't want Alisha and Sorey to fall in love. He didn’t want Sorey to be away from him, and his own selfishness left a bitter taste in Mikleo's mouth.

"I hope our roads will cross again." Alisha said.

Rose bumped her hip against Alisha, making Sorey realize their hands, "You say that like we are going to the end of the world. We'll need to make you know how we owned that Dragon's ass!"

Alisha humored her, "I'll like to hear that."

Then Rose’s blue eyes gazed tenderly at Alisha's, "We'll miss you." She said holding Alisha's gaze.

Mikleo willed his heavy tongue to form words, if only to banish the thought plaguing his mind, "That's not a farewell, we'll see each other again soon."

He just would have to make sure that by the next time they meet Alisha he was actually ready to abandon his selfishness for Sorey's sake. His idiot friends didn't go for the chance he could have, it was certain now that he would have much work to do. Even knowing that, if just the thought made his heart thump like that, he would need to become stronger to survive the ordeal. 

The marshland was a misleading name considering that they currently were navigating in a foggy swamp shaded by tall tortuous trees rather than a grassy wetland. Mikleo's ears rang with the many noises of the resident wildlife. He could barely make out Dezel's indications as he and Rose steered the small boat though the murky water because of the incessant croak of frogs and crows. While it had been rather pleasant at first, those sounds were rarely heard back in Elysia, it started to be slightly annoying.

It was almost like Dezel talking to them in a low voice was his way of retribution because Rose didn't ask nicely when she demanded him to read the wind and lead them through the fog. Making a comment about it while Dezel’s mood was so sour would be dangerous, so Mikleo continued to listen to the cacophony around him while relying solely on Rose for directions.

They have been taking turns with the paddles and Sorey was using his resting time to do some sketching in a travel notebook beside him, his brow scrunching in a thoughtful expression. It was the first time Mikleo saw that small leather-bound notebook and he wondered were Sorey found it, however his thoughts were short lived as his eyes landed on what Sorey was scribbling on the margin.

Sorey was so wrong on his guessing about the marshland fort date of construction. Alisha told them it had been renovated somewhere around the beginning of the war and had fallen out of use before that but the evidence was right under their eyes, surely Sorey had saw the rest of the older foundations and wall . It dated back way more than two hundred years ago.

Opening his mouth to voice his disapproval, Mikleo was interrupted by an ear-splitting screech resounding in the distance.

"What was that?" he asked, expressing everyone’s concern.

They all turned toward where the screech originated, the beginning of the volcano slope taunting them over the rows of naked trees.

"That was a firebird." Dezel provided, tilting his hat over his face in unease. "That's bad timing if it's nesting near the volcano, Villude Rift. They are pretty violent species when protecting their offsprings and it would make the giant snake we fought look like a walk in the park in comparison." He warned.

"Oh? At least now we are more than one Dragoon so it's nothing we can't handle!" Rose provided.

She maneuvered the small boat to a decrepit deck, the wood clanking as their small boat collided with it. Dezel was the first to set foot on land and he helped Rose to steady the small boat before helping her stand up. Once the threat of getting wet was removed she stretched before directing to the dirt path ahead of them.

"After the edge of the forest we only have to climb for a little while. They made a side road for the carts and caravan avoiding the lava canyon, it's longer but we escape most of the heat from inside the volcano. "She side-eyed Mikleo while fanning herself with her hand, "I think it's already making Mikleo wobbly."

It was true that Mikleo wobbled as he exited the small boat, but it was only because he had stepped on a mud puddle, not because he was a damsel in distress.

"I'm fine. I won't evaporate because of the heat."

She ignored him, making round eyes at him, "You really are so easy to tease."

Wondering how she reached that assumption wasn't necessary because Sorey's snicker gave him away. Mikleo sent him a stifling glare, huffing he lead the way down the path toward the volcano, holding his chin high. The group followed him while continuing their playful banter.

"So you can tell it was a firebird by hearing its cry? I'm impressed." Sorey praised Dezel.

Dezel’s eyes remained unreadable behind his curtain of hair. "That's just something I learned to survive."

"Don't be modest Dezel." Rose joined the conversation, elbowing Dezel's side, "He is actually quite knowledgeable about fauna and flora. And he actually is a good cook too."

"Don't think flattering me would make up for your earlier rudeness."

So, Mikleo had been right when guessing Rose had something to do with Dezel’s irritation. He should remember that wind seraphim seemed to hold tenacious grudges. Or maybe it was just how Dezel was.

"You're still mad at me for that?" Rose said slightly baffled. She looked at Dezel’s tight lips as he crossed his arms over his chest, shaking her head with a half-smile, "Okay, I apologize. I won't call you my personal compass ever again, happy?"

They continued to bicker for some time after that with Sorey eventually joining the conversation with interrogations and curiosity. As for Mikleo, he stayed a little behind, looking at the changing landscape while they climbed the slope toward the Volcano Villude.

He had not really had time to look back on what had happened to him since he had met Dezel and after they had rescued Sorey and Alisha together. The events succeeded at such a fast pace that he always wondered if he was dreaming. He didn't have time to realize things.

But the fact was that he felt it inside him, that it was there. Mikleo looked at his palm without really believing it, he flexed his fingers before turning his hand to look at the back. Something new was bubbling inside him. If he didn't pay attention to it, it was easy to ignore and he didn't doubt that he would get used to it soon but when he lingered on it, trying to tap into it as he would do when using artes, it was obvious that something was wrong. The very essence of the mana in his veins had changed when he had become a Dragoon.
All because of a memento left by his mother. Did she know what the stone in Mikleo's circlet was when she had entrusted it to him?

His eyes went back to Sorey and he felt familiar warmth spread in him when he heard him laugh at something Rose said. The warmth dulled quickly with the realization that yet another wall had been erected between them.

Sorey didn't try to stop Alisha, nor had he asked to accompany her. Sorey’s choice was to stay with him, but Mikleo wouldn't dare hope it meant anything for him.

Though it reassured him to be certain that Sorey wouldn't treat him differently now that his Dragoon spirit had awakened, he couldn't help but be afraid of what he himself felt about that.

Staying by Sorey’s side, exploring the world was a tangible dream for a Seraph, for a Dragoon however… all of Mikleo's previous certainties were doomed to change.

Of course, that didn't change the true nature of Mikleo's feelings for Sorey. This indefectible love and affection kept hurting him. That’s why he wouldn't have liked that becoming a Dragoon would have left him insensitive to Sorey's charm.

"Look Mikleo! We made it! The mountain that spits fire !"

Mikleo nearly jumped at Sorey’s sudden outburst from how lost in his mussing he was. He only now noticed they had reached the volcano path. In front of him stood a sign inviting caution with two arrows pointing to opposite directions. One of them being the old canyon path, that would bring the group toward a natural road created by earthquakes and lava flow where melted rock still flowed freely and the other pointing toward the recently constructed merchant road that Rose told them about.

It was obvious which way Mikleo preferred them to choose.

He looked up above the sign to take in the landscape. They were a little above the canyon entrance, and he could see the volcano slope blackened by ashes and soot, earth torn apart by hundred if not thousands of year of volcanic activities. More than one chimney, some tall and some smaller, let out plum of greyish gas and smoke making the atmosphere heavy and loaded.

Rose hadn't been joking when she warned them about the heat that prevailed here, even though they still were far away from the crater.

Feeling the heat making his breathing difficult, Mikleo’s gaze focused on a small droplet of sweat that slowly descended along Sorey's naked throat as he unfasten another button of his blue shirt, Mikleo watched as if entranced while that drop seeped into the black fabric of Sorey’s undershirt

Swallowing the lump in his throat, Mikleo felt the heat pooling on his cheeks when he realized how much he had been staring. His traitorous mind brought him back to his dream from the night before and the too realistic kiss Sorey gave him there. Its realism had left hope it would come true linger, it could only be that.

"Are you sure everything all right?" Rose asked, having obviously noticed Mikleo's slip, "I felt feverish for days after adorning my Dragoon armor, I don't know how it is for a Seraph but we can rest a little if you're not feeling well."

Flushing more because of her remark, Mikleo shook his head a little too fast, "I'm fine, really. The heat surprised me, though." He pulled at his high collar, feeling his own sweat starting to pool there.

"Best to take the merchant path then," Rose said walking in the direction the sign indicated.

"Rose! The firebird." Dezel interrupted, lowering his voice as he grasped Rose’s upper arm.

Their eyes turned toward the sky as Dezel warned them, and the screech from earlier resonating around them louder than ever. It rang across the rocky wall. It was there, flying right above the road they were about to take.

"It's beautiful. Like the phoenix of olds legends." Sorey said, enthusiasm coating his words

The bird was massive even from afar. It could easily take one of them in its talon. It was a magnificent flaming red, as if its plumage was made of liquid fire, and its tales trailed behind it like a veil while it gracefully flew over the volcano slope.

Again the screech rang, making Dezel cover his sensitive ears in pain. The firebird changed its course, wings flapping angrily as it rushed right toward them.

"It saw us, run!"

In urgency, Dezel grabbed Rose’s arm and scrammed right in the opposite path. Sorey and Mikleo descended into the canyon running after him, passing by a hole in the rock marking the entrance. They ran for quite some time, instinct prevailing over the aching settling into their lungs and their limbs. Dezel stopped only after the group was secured behind an extinct chimney.

Breathless, Mikleo gathered himself feeling more bothered by the ambient heat than he would have liked to. A water Seraph like him usually had no trouble regulating his own body temperature, but he had been too distracted to even consider it.

He coughed up some ash, unfocused eyes searching for Sorey. In the confusion he had grabbed his friend’s hand and now was fully aware of Sorey's clammy palm pressed against his. He quietly let go, but Sorey's hand remained firmly grasped over his. He was feeling Sorey's erratic pulse through that connection and made Mikleo nervous, more aware of their proximity.

"It seems we lost him." Rose commented looking at the canyon wall surrounding them.

Relieved, Sorey finally let go of Mikleo's hand and stepped out of their hiding place, mindful of their surroundings, "Yeah, I don't think it can follow us here, the rift is too narrow."

Expectant eyes turned toward Dezel, mutely waiting to read the winds and give the all clear. For an answer, he nodded adding a noncommittal sound.

"Well, I suppose we'll have to use the most dangerous way, at least it's the shortest." Rose cheered, now that the tension had fallen to a notch.

She started on the narrow road, leading them to a natural stone bridge joining the two sides of the rift, humming under their breath like they didn't just escape a deadly threat. Mikleo rolled his eyes but still followed after her.

The group was quiet after that ordeal, following Rose and Dezel into a small maze of rocky roads and caves. Naturally, Sorey had to stop and take a look at every amazing sight they crossed, and Mikleo had to admit he quite enjoyed that too.

The lava river flowing around them was reminiscent of the river from the Limestone Cave, if it wasn't for falling in it was equal to a certain and painful death. Hundreds of years of eruption and lava flowing from the mountain had forged the canyon into many kinds of intricate design. At one point the road came atop a pool of Lava, alimented by more hot red lava flowing out holes in the wall above their head.

"It's like a waterfall," Mikleo commented.

"A lava fall, then?" Sorey reflected.

Mikleo snorted at that comment. Sorey looked like the first time they explored the Mabinogio ruin again. It felt like home. It was making Mikleo nostalgic. It was easing the pain still lingering in his heart, obscure thoughts pushed deep back into his mind

"Come on you two, we are almost there."

And Dezel had to be the one to ruin their fun, even though Rose chastised him. But as he walked across the lavafall, stepping on the bridge it flowed under and forever engraving the sight in his memories Mikleo stopped, turning toward Sorey.

Sorey had stopped walking, but he wasn't looking at the melted rock flowing from the wall either. His gaze was lost, eyes unfocused, even though his back and shoulder were held tight like he was paying close attention to something.

"What is this feeling…it's like… something’s calling me?" Sorey drawled.

"Sorey?" Mikleo called after him.

Dread settled into Mikleo's bones, his dream still fresh in his mind and Sorey was just like…

Like he didn't hear Mikleo's voice, Sorey strayed from the path never looking back as he stepped down the slope siding the road, slipping right toward the lava lake at the bottom of a small pit.

"Wait Sorey!"

Sorey was waiting for him, right near a shore, black ash and pebbles littering the edge of the lava lake. Mikleo looked at Rose and Dezel still on the road above them. With a silent pleading gaze, he asked for their help.

From the road, it was hard to see the white boulder Sorey was staring at. Its whiteness was contrasting to the surrounding and Mikleo wondered how it hadn't melted seeing how it was right in the middle of the lava lake.

Grabbing Sorey’s sleeve, he forced him away from the boulder he was staring at, "You were being called by that rock?" he asked, incredulousness in his voice.

"I'm not sure, but when I came here, the feeling stopped." Sorey answered.

He heard Rose as she let herself slide on the slope to join them. Scowling at the boulder, Mikleo was about to help Sorey climb back when he noticed that the thing had in fact a very distinguishable form. It was obvious now that he looked closer that the part coming out of the lake to rest on the shore was indeed a clawed paw, and those claws were as long as Dezel’s legs.

A shudder running along his spine, Mikleo couldn't help but ask, "Is that a monster?"

"It looks like a stone statue," Rose said.

Curiosity winning over his instinct telling him to stay away, Mikleo stopped closer to the claw. He reached his hand toward it, wanting to feel the texture.

"Don't go near it!" Sorey exclaimed, startling Mikleo who retreated his hand, "…something's wrong."

"He's right, this Virage is still alive." Dezel hissed between clenched teeth.

Again, all eyes turned toward Dezel in wonder, but Mikleo was the first to ask, "A Virage? How can it still be alive?"

It was the first time he heard such a name. Rose did tell them that Dezel was knowledgeable about fauna but Mikleo was a good learner just as Sorey was, if he didn't know about that Virage thing then either Gramps and the Elysian had hidden their existence or it was never written into a book.

Dezel scoffed at him, fist balling at his side, "Would have thought a well learned brat like you would know about it. You know about the Dragon Campaign, right?"

Mikleo nearly bristled at the insult but chose to pay no mind to it, "We know about what the legends says." He answered, sharing a knowing glance with Sorey.

Dezel nodded, "The Hellions were outnumbered, so they used those creatures called Virage as their trump card in the war. Just like humans had the help of Dragons."

"So those things are Hellions?" Mikleo couldn't believe his own words.

"But the Dragon Campaign happened eleven thousand years ago. How can it still be alive?" Sorey doubted.

The moment Sorey's words left his lips, the claws near Mikleo started to move making them breathe a collective gasp. When Dezel started to fetch for his pendulum, his jaw whitening from how much he was clenching his teeth, Mikleo knew what would happen next.

 There was no avoiding this fight.

"Let's say hatred and revenge are a powerful driving force," Dezel answered.

As the white bulky creature rose from the bottom of the lava lake, Mikleo summoned his staff in his hand already feeling Dezel concentrate an arte around them. A warm wind passed over them, making Mikleo's body feel lighter.

Both of the Virage’s legs and its right arm were missing, forcing it to remain mostly immobile after it dragged itself out of the lava with its large left arm, claws dragging large gashes in the black sand. It was a bulky monster whose small head was dwarfed against its large whitish chest. It had two small blood red eyes and no apparent mouth, and a ruby red stone jutted out from what would be its forehead. The rest of its body had grayish and green hues, taking more color at it moved again.

"Now we have to stop that thing from getting out of here! " Dezel boomed avoiding the large claw falling after him. "Rose!"

"All right ! I'm on it!"

She complained, but already her body was surrounded in a dark violet light. Lightning cracking around her form. As the light dissipated, hugging her body, it left behind a whole different outfit than the traveler garb Rose was wearing.

It was her Dragoon armor in plain sight. Her former white pant was now as black as coal, gauntlets protected her arm and long boots reached her mid- thigh while greaves protected her legs. A plate covered her chest, a dark red stone between her breasts shinning with the rise of her power. All parts of her armor in a dark indigo blue color framed with a reddish outline. A set of wings were connected to her back, pale green translucent feathers already helping her fly over the other fighter. The dark headband on her forehead was adorned by small red stones. It was a stark contrast blending into her red hair, the headband forming small horns above her ears.

She looked stunning, her armor so strikingly different than Mikleo's. Rose was the black Dragoon, the one whose sacrifice was almost forgotten by history. Gramps told Mikleo and Sorey about that Dragoon, the only human in the party beside the Shepherd.

She didn't wait for them to close their gasping mouths before lunging at the Virage.

Now was not the time to observe her armor in detail for the monster’s flat forehead was already concentrating bright light, obviously starting to concentrate a fire beam of some sort.

Rose’s twin daggers had changed too, becoming longer and taking the same scaly aspect as the rest of her armor. Her wings beat the air with strength and in no time she had both her daggers digging into the Virage’s right eye.

It flinched in pain and the beam of light the gem on its forehead fired was effectively deflected, burning a hole into the ground just beside Sorey’s foot. Sorey eyed the hole in disbelief, happy that his side stepping had been fast enough.

 It recovered soon enough to try and grab Rose with its remaining arm. She barely avoided it, its claw grazing her leg. That thing was unexpectedly fast.

" Need a little help up here!" She said, flying in a circle above the creature without finding an opening to strike again. "Can you distract it?"

Maybe she had been too distracted herself to notice they didn't wait for her to ask before trying to land a few hits. It was the third Ice Shard arte that Mikleo had cast and it didn't even tickle the Virage.

He was about to try water based artes while Sorey circled the monster toward its armless side, trying his own martial artes on the creature’s lower body. And Mikleo was certain he saw Dezel’s pendulum rebound on the Virage’s flesh a few times, indicating it was pretty hard to pierce.

Then, it struck him. The change in his mana, the building feeling rising in him just like the night before.

"Rose!" he exclaimed, feeling alien in his own body, "I don't know how to turn into a Dragoon!"

Rose was busy deflecting the Virage claw with her daggers and left foot, brow scrunched in effort as she freaked out, "Aaahh, but I thought a Seraph would know about that! I huh- I didn't think it would be necessary to teach you!"

Sorey staggered behind him, now resorting to throwing pebbles to attract the monster’s attention, "Just tell him!" He screamed after Rose.

Now the Virage concentrated a beam again while Rose was occupied with its claws, trying to stop the large arm from cleaving her in two halves.

"Remember how you were relieved when you saw Sorey was safe?" She grunted, beads of sweat running on her cheek.

"Yeah!" Mikleo responded as his staff accompanied his Aqua Serpent.

Fortunately for her, Dezel moved just right for his pendulum to coil around the monster’s arm and with all his strength, letting out a hoarse cry, he pulled. He managed to make the hand fall back on the ground, the resulting tremor raking into the other guy's bodies.

Rose heaved a sigh as she evaded the beam. But the Virage fired right into the canyon wall. More lava flowed from the newly formed hole, cutting their retreat and making the road unusable.

"It's the exact opposite from that feeling that enacts the transformation. Your battle rage, your need to protect. "

Like it ignited something into Mikleo, he immediately understood what she meant. The smile he gave Sorey was gentle and full of adoration. It was always for him. Mikleo became better at ruin exploring because he wanted to surpass Sorey. He became a good fighter because he wanted to stand beside Sorey. He learnt strong healing artes because he wanted to protect Sorey.

Sorey was his best friend, his rival, his first love. Everything.

Cold blue light swallowed him, icy wind filling the atmosphere around him, Mikleo groaning as his own power overflowed into his core. When he opened his eyes next, he too was in full armor, the heat no longer bothering him as frost made his wings shine.

Green eyes shone, looking at him with an expression of admiration mixed with profound trust just like the first time he saw Mikleo wearing that armor. Sorey was glad to trust their fate in Mikleo's hands.

Something felt heavy on Mikleo’s hand and he looked down to find that his staff had turned into a large hammer sporting the same decoration his staff had, the only difference was the glyph on both sides and Mikleo couldn't help but smile as he recognized them.

A bow surrounded by two fish, Amenoch’s crest. Pride swelled in Mikleo’s heart now that he fully grasped the meaning of being Amenoch’s chosen. He looked up at the Virage, determination settling into his violet eyes.

The hammer felt almost weightless when he beat his wings to soar into the air, joining Rose just outside the Virage’s reach.

It was like a voice chanting inside his soul what he needed to do. The temperature around him dropped drastically, and one of his hands pointed to the Virage the other holding tightly on his weapon. Mikleo’s body twirled like he was gently gliding on a frozen pond, cold air gathering into a ring around him.

Then his wings flicked sharply as he sent diamond like shards crashing at the Virage,

"Freezing Ring!"

The spell made the Virage waver in agony, its cry of pain and anger growing weaker when Rose’s dagger found their way into its softer middle, dark acidic blood seeping out from the gaping wound.

Mikleo didn't wait for it to recover, he flew up again to gain momentum then let himself fall back, using his strong wings to carry him as he struck the Virage with his hammer, right on its face.

The force of the blow sent the dying monster reeling, it fell back right into the middle of the lava lake. Letting out a slow anguished cry at it sank, red liquid fire covering its horrendous body. The monster’s red eyes lost all light and after eleven hundred years of hatred and despair keeping it alive it finally died.

Mikleo and Rose waited a moment in wariness, gaze never leaving the lake before they eventually came down. Mikleo’s armor was the first to dissipate, like morning dew evaporating in the sun and when he faltered, a bout of dizziness surprising him from how fast his level of mana returned to the norm, Sorey was there to catch him.

"That was amazing Mikleo!" He said, hands on Mikleo’s shoulder to help him stand upright, "I still can't believe you are a Dragoon."

"Well, maybe we should have your eyes checked." Mikleo scoffed.

Sorey was tempted to drop him back into the ash and dirt.

Beside them, Rose crouched by the lake, she collected some ashes into her and before making it fall back into the lake.

"May these weary bones find peaceful rest."

They had defeated a formidable opponent.

Chapter Text

To say that finding the abandoned inn after what they went through in the volcano path was welcomed would be a euphemism. Rose's squeal of delight when she discovered that the running water system was still working and had hot water thanks to the volcano’s proximity would be forever engraved into Sorey's memories. And to be honest, if she hadn't been the first one to express her joy, Sorey would have.

It seemed like the inn had been abandoned recently, the owner leaving in a hurry. Most of the heavier furniture had been left behind. It was most likely the war resurgence and the closing of the commercial road that forced the inn owners to leave.

 At least, it provided the group with a shelter for the night.

That's why a freshly showered Sorey, cleaned from the layer of ash and dirt that had stuck to parts of his body he never thought it could, was now laying on an actual bed with his aching muscles thanking the lords for the plump mattress, although the bed was devoid of any cover of pillow but hey you don't look a gift horse in the mouth.

The group made the decision to go into the dragon nest at dawn, after a well-earned night of rest. The inn was rather small but they couldn't afford to be picky, moreover they were the only travelers stopping here so each had a room for themselves.

So after bathing they shared a frugal meal composed of dried meat and bread and after rehearsing the map to make sure they had the location where the Dragon's nest was supposed to be right in their heads, they had gone to sleep.

Or that was what Sorey had tried to do for the past few hours but no matter how tired he was, the fact was that he still awake late into the night. He kept tossing and turning in his bed, intrusive thoughts and questions circling into his mind. Currently facing the wall, his eyes wide open focused on a small stain, he tried to put his thoughts in order.

He was thinking about the war. Sorey knew about war, he knew it was not a pretty or romantic thing like in the books, he couldn't help everyone, and still it didn't prevent him from wanting to try.  But being confronted with so much death after he was sheltered for most of his life had Sorey losing appetite and sleep. He knew he shouldn’t let himself be this strongly affected but knowing and doing were two different things.

From a young age, Gramps made sure he knew what death was and what it implied. He always respected the prickleboar he had to kill in order to eat, never leaving any part to waste.

Belief of what came after death differed from species to species and even though Sorey studied them all, he always preferred the Seraphim belief that when someone’s life was lost, his soul, his life force returned to the life tree to be reborn.

Hoping that those lost to the war could find such respite eased his mind somehow and Sorey rolled onto his back. His train of thought about life and death brought a reminiscing about religious beliefs he knew about.

Turning his head toward the darkness of the room, his eyes went toward the book he left on his bed side. Sorey could distinguish the Celestial Record edges, bringing in his mind the first few pages of the book. It exposed the common myth of creation.

 The author of the book gathered from his travel that most civilizations believed that the world originated from one God and the seed that God planted. It was said that the God of Creation, Soa planted a seed on a barren land. The seed grew into a great tree, known as the Divine Tree, which bore one hundred and eight fruits and from each fruit a species was born.

The small, long-haired Minitos were the ninetieth, the great Dragons were the one hundred and fourth, the adaptive humans were the meant to be the one hundred and fifth but the Dragons fruit twinned giving birth to the passive Seraphim making them the one hundred and sixth. Then there was the powerful Hellion, the one hundred and seventh fruit. The fruits fell from the tree, filling the once-barren land with bountiful life. The one hundred and eighth fruit, the final fruit of the Divine Tree, was yet to have been born.

Seraphim belief added to that myth, and the human church followed them. They believed that roots from the divine tree were all over the earth, right under their feet, creating a worldwide underground web and when someone died, their soul, and their essence flowed back into them.

After the first seraphim were born from the Divine Tree fruit, the next seraphim started to be birthed from those roots, given a soul by the tree itself, a creature made of pure energy. They called it the Earth pulse.

He knew the soldiers died doing their duty, even those from Sandora. Those men lost their lives for a reason they deemed good but still…it didn't mean that there wasn't someone to wait for them, a family, a lover, someone who will mourn their death. Some of them didn't look older than him…

Closing his eyes, Sorey clenched the fabric of his shirt. War carried so much pain and destruction, and Sorey knew there was political stuff and old grudges coming into play that he couldn't understand but he wished those bringing war over their country would think more about the consequences brought upon their people before driving them into conflict.

Then there was Alisha. She was directly concerned by the war. She had been a fast friend with him right after their meeting, the princess’s gentle soul and hopeful smile having called Sorey's... Sorey refused to see her lose her smile. He never wanted to see her lose herself again like she did in the marshland fort. Even so he couldn't even start to fathom the burden being a leader in her situation could put upon her shoulder. Alisha wasn't frail whatsoever and she was strong but discovering how much more it needed for her to break wasn't something Sorey wanted.

He was worried after leaving her to go back alone to the capital but at the same time he understood that it was something she had to do alone.

If there was something he could do to help, he hoped dealing with the Dragon would make some difference. That feeling of uselessness was becoming unbearable.

Thinking of how much he was useless brought forth memories about their fight against the Virage. Nothing he had done had made any difference. The creature fell only under the combined effort of Rose, Dezel and most of all Mikleo.

Now Mikleo was a Dragoon, pushed into battle by another Dragoon. Rose had called herself a Shepherd and Sorey was still not ready to think about what it meant for him and Mikleo.

 And… there was that other thing. No one addressed it but Sorey saw it lingering in their eyes. He couldn't mistake the silent questioning he saw in Rose’s eyes, like cogs and wheels working to understand what happened. At least, Mikleo didn't lose his trust in him that would have been too much. Even if Mikleo put Sorey’s behavior under the result of some blessings, Sorey knew better and his stomach churned, bile rising in his throat at the intrusive memories.

That was the Virage voice he heard resounding in his head, no blessing could explain that. It was frightening. His train of thought deviating too much toward that shadowed place he refused to fall into, Sorey gritted his teeth. He wouldn't get any sleep dwelling on things like that.

Frustrated, Sorey threw his feet over the bed. Maybe some fresh air would help him clear his mind.

As he made his way toward the inn lobby, Sorey stopped in front of Mikleo's door heaving out a sigh. Since they started travelling and his own mind started to assault Sorey, his friend’s presence had been so comforting, and Sorey had found sleep in no time when Mikleo was with him. Even so Sorey refused to consider going to sleep next to Mikleo tonight, not when thinking about the seraph was what troubled him the most.

Still, Sorey’s hand reached up to touch at the door, fingers hovering inches away from the wood. He bit his lips, finally bringing his forehead against the door.

Trying to avoid thinking about Mikleo was exactly what led him to think about him. A wistful expression made Sorey's lip turn upward as he remembered their games and explorations into the ruin near Elysia. The legend of the Shepherd being Sorey's favorite they often role played and they had endless fights about who would play the Shepherd role.

Their games had changed as they grew up but that competition between them remained.

But now Mikleo was the Dragoon. It was beautiful, powerful, but it wasn't a game anymore, and Sorey was not his Shepherd. He was useless, a mere human that couldn't even help against a monster. It made the fear that it would ultimately draw them apart too real. Sorey, knowing it would eventually create a gap between them they couldn’t cross anymore made him shudder in cold sweat.

If only he could do something to keep Mikleo beside him.

Stepping away from the Mikleo's door, Sorey tried to divert his thought to something else but it only bought forth something he thought he had buried in deep. He couldn't help but to be reminded about the time when he had realized he had started wanting more than Mikleo’s friendship, how his feelings had become more than something he would feel for a brother and how much it had troubled him.

It had taken one entire week avoiding Mikleo and locking himself away in his own house to sort his feelings out and what he would do about them. It would have taken longer if it wasn't for Mikleo banging on his door and asking for an explanation, loneliness and worry still etched into Mikleo's violet eyes when Sorey had finally opened up to him.

Sorey swore to never do that again, to never do something that could hurt Mikleo.That’s why he still kept the true deft of his feelings to himself.

For now, it was easy to be content with what they had between them but… Mikleo had tried to make him stay back. Mikleo had wanted him away from him. It was only because of Rose’s support and his stubbornness that Sorey was finally allowed to follow.

What if it meant that Mikleo would leave him behind without a second thought once Sorey's inefficiency became obvious?

No, he had to think of the bright side of all that. Visiting the places mentioned in the Celestial Record and with Mikleo no less was all he had ever dreamed. Bale even had trace of Seraphim and humans cohabiting in harmony! They had many things to visit after that, and Mikleo being a Dragoon won't take that away from them, Sorey just had to make sure of that.

Thinking more about the wonderful traveling with his friend seemed to work at exiling Sorey’s darker thoughts. Sorey had so many other things he wanted to see. There should be an ancient shrine dedicated to the lady of the lake right beside where the Dragon's nest was supposed to be, maybe he could convince the others to go see it after taming the Dragon ? And maybe they would stop at the ancient Arena in Lohan, Sorey couldn't wait.

But… there was still what happened in the Volcano path. Also, Virage were vestige of the Dragoon war… what if they crossed path again with one throughout their exploration?

Sorey shook his head frustrated with himself, intrusive thoughts findings their way in him again. Fist balling at his side, he made his way toward the inn lobby, walking and breathing in fresh air being the last option he could think of to clear his mind.

The light coming from the fireplace in the inn lobby assaulted Sorey’s eyes forcing him to blink. At least it finally cut through the train of thought that relentlessly rebounded in his mind. His eyes were used to the dark and the unexpected brightness made him flinch during the time it took for his vision to adjust.

"Can't sleep?"

Rose’s voice surprised him, and now that he had adjusted to the light, he could see her sitting right beside the fire, her smile basked in a gentle glow.

"Huh, no I-I was-" Sorey tried, still a bit lost.

"Seems like no one can rest peacefully when they are running right into a Dragon's lair, huh? Dezel and Mikleo are out too." She said turning back to the fire.

Now that he looked more closely, Sorey could see that she was sharpening a knife, the blade gleaming in her hand. He stepped toward her, approaching her like he would a wild animal, seeking approval in her eyes as he sat beside her.

If Rose refused Sorey's presence beside her, she showed no sign of it. She was concentrated on her task, her blade sliding on her whetstone. The repetitive noise it made had something calming and soon it lulled Sorey's restless mind. For a moment he lost himself into contemplating the flames, watching as they licked the logs, slowly cracking its brown bark into a square pattern of black coal. It looked like it had been burning for some time, ashes and embers littering the hearth.

Chancing a glance at Rose, Sorey considered disturbing the comfortable silence that had settled between them. It felt like Rose being here wasn't a coincidence, because she held some response to Sorey’s questioning, and now that they were alone, Sorey wanted to stop avoiding the conversation he dreaded.

"What are they doing outside?" he asked quietly, bringing the subject far from what he truly wanted to discuss just to make sure she was okay with some conversation.

"Dezel is on the roof, standing guard. It's a habit for him," she shrugged, but Sorey didn't miss the glint in her eye, "As for Mikleo I don't really know but I think he is training." She responded, eyes never leaving her knife.

Again, Sorey felt a strange pang in his heart when Rose mentioned Mikleo, "That's also a habit for him, he trains when he can't sleep." It made Sorey frown, but thinking about what may disturb Mikleo would make him stray from what he wanted to ask Rose.

Rose looked knowingly at him, "So, what’s keeping you up?" she asked.

That question being said right away wasn't something Sorey expected but now he had the confirmation that Rose wasn't one to beat around the bush. Their eyes met as he glanced up and he found understanding in Rose's. The fire was making the blue of her iris stand sharper and he knew she must have seen so much more than he could imagine.

" What is it like for you being a Shepherd?" Sorey's question left his mouth before he had time to think more carefully about how to properly formulate it.

Rose seemed surprised he would go for that question first thing if the slight frown in her brow was anything to go by, yet she gave him a half-smile before looking back at the fire. She hummed thoughtfully.

"I didn't really think about it to be honest." She admitted, tilting her head to the side and touching her lips as she went deeper into her thinking." Brad was the one owning the spirit before me but even though he made certain I knew how to use the stone, he never used it in front of me. "

Sorey listened quietly nodding his head as he started to picture why someone would do as Rose’s mentor. He said nothing though, giving Rose the space she needed.

She laid her sharpening tool on the ground, bringing her knee against herself. It seemed she wanted to talk more about it if that’s what Sorey would have needed. Nevertheless, Sorey was lending her his ears if she needed it.

"He told me it would glow bright beside its rightful owner and that if it chooses a human then that human was a Shepherd." She laughed awkwardly, sliding a hand into her red hair, "So here I am, Lady Shepherd lucky enough to find the water Dragoon on the roadside."

"It's true though. What were the chances you would meet Mikleo and be called by his Dragoon spirit?" Sorey tried.

Rose looked at him, then she gave him a faint smile, "You really like him, don't you? I mean that kind of like, the one where…" She made a crude gesture with her index finger entering a circle made with her other hand, but she had to laugh awkwardly after the confused expression Sorey gave her, "You don't have to worry though. I won't force him into whatever quest for light the Shepherd is meant to bring his companions. Having the Dragoon armor to protect my friends is all I ask for."

As Rose reached a hand to pat Sorey’s shoulder, he looked back toward the fire. Rose didn't miss the green of his eye turning slightly somber, she patted his shoulder harder, making him flinch but eventually returning a smile to his lips.

"You know, you could just do you both a favor and kiss the poor seraph senseless. It's hard to see you pinning for each other but be too stubborn to act on it." She elbowed his side knowingly and only now had Sorey noticed how she had gotten closer to him.

Scratching his nape, he too let out an awkward laugh, "Nah, Mikleo doesn’t like me like that. But I suppose I should thank you for saving him, twice."

The certainty in his answer left Rose flabbergasted, leaving her no chance to argue against it. She shook her head. Really it was painful to see just how oblivious Sorey was. But it was something he and Mikleo had to settle by themselves. Sighing again, she extended her leg in front of her and her arm behind her supporting her reclining body.

"To be honest it wasn’t really my intention to involve Mikleo with the Dragoons' stuffs, but ehe…" she started to play with the tip of her hair, "I kinda wanted to see if I could awake his Dragoon spirit."

She expected Sorey to be upset after her confession, but instead Sorey gave her a grateful smile.

"You were in a hurry with that earth Seraph threatening him. I can't blame you for trying something."

She looked rather hesitant, sheepishly avoiding Sorey’s eyes, "Well, the truth is I don't think she was really intending to kill him, injure badly yes, but kill? No. She wasn't a killer. You could trust me on that."

Sorey’s eyebrow rose in query, he opened his mouth to ask more but it closed suddenly, realization settling on his features. Rose never sought to hide the darker part of her merchant guild. The Scattered Bones were like the shadows of the Sparrow Feathers. She had implied that it would take a killer to recognize another one, right?

If Sorey's reading about war made him lean something it was that often the party involved wouldn't bother with fairness and that assassination attempts, betrayal and cunning ways were shared. Groups like Rose's were the ones employed for that.

Rose noticed the change in Sorey's expression and he swore the temperature dropped slightly as her eyes sharpened once more. "Does it bother you, that I'm an assassin?"

Sorey tilted his eyes to the side, honestly considering his answer. He wanted to be sincere with Rose but with himself too. "Not really. You still are you, and I think you have your reason. But even if you kill, I know you truly care for the others. I saw how you took care of the wounded while Mikleo was in the infirmary. You even distributed supplies."

"Hey! The knighthood paid for that." She interrupted, not wanting Sorey to go further with that. She wasn't letting him take her for a Good Samaritan, "Business is business."

The knowing grin Sorey gave her in answer showed a bit of his teeth, even though a frown replaced it, "It's just… I wish a kind girl like you wouldn't have to kill, but I guess you wouldn't do it if it wasn't necessary." He added in a soft voice.

Rose was used to being judged and condemned even by those whom employed the Scattered Bones, and she clearly was taken aback by Sorey’s statement. It wasn't complete approval of her ways but still, Sorey’s understanding reinforced the impression she had been right to befriend him.

 As she opened her mouth to make a comment about Sorey’s cheesiness, her elbow rising to strike his side, he beat her:

"And you, what's keeping you up?" He asked,

Talking had helped Sorey clear his mind a little bit, and looking at the almost burned out log, he guessed Rose had been here for the same reason. Now it was time to return her favor and listen to her.

Still Rose’s eyes narrowed because she was positive that question sounded like retaliation to her intruding into Sorey and Mikleo’s nonexistent love life. She let it go though, because she felt like she deserved it. She sighed as she picked up her knife and inspected the blade, trying to appear as threatening as possible just to make Sorey uncomfortable and make him drop the subject. It didn't work, Sorey’s expectant eyes fixing on her face.

She rolled her eyes, "I was thinking about Alisha."

"I'm worried about her too." Sorey’s hand gripped his pants, finger itching to do something.

Glad he was too dense to jump on the occasion to tease Rose about her crush, she felt the need to expose her thinking, and she started to explain.

"If we are sharing our heart out, I have to tell you I’m more worried about the council and the nobles surrounding her right now.  She observed Sorey’s reaction before continuing, he looked quite neutral, "They tried to hire the Scattered Bones to assassinate her under the pretense she was a threat to peace." She confessed.

Sorey’s back straightened, his apparent calmness disturbed by the way he clenched his jaw, "So it wasn't just an impression. I had the feeling they weren't pleased with her."

Rose made a disdainful motion with her hand, "That's an understatement. Not the nice quiet little Princess Alisha. Anyway, the Scattered Bones never finish a target without making sure they deserved it,"

"See, you are kind." Sorey interrupted.

She elbowed him in the ribs, "That's not the point. Well, our employer clearly didn't expect us to dig before doing the job, because Alisha was nothing but marching toward peace. At that time I still hadn't met her in person but she was so loved in Bale. She took care of refugees, she helped at the hospital, hell even the troops loved her. Meeting her in person made me see she really was as beautiful, sweet and intelligent as the rumors let on."

"Yeah, it wasn't really a surprise for us when we visited Bale, but still," Sorey added.

Red flared on Rose’s cheeks when Sorey made her notice how much she was renting on Alisha's quality. She quickly gathered herself though, "You're right but I can't help to be worried. She has the tendency to attract problems."

"Like when she was kidnaped by the Sandoras?"

"Like with the Sandoras." Rose repeated.

"I'm worried too, but I know she would be fine though. I trust her. She showed us just how capable and strong she was. And we are doing something to help her too, taking care of the Dragon, right? Alisha will make her way toward peace and we will be here to see that."

Sorey’s confidence in Alisha was inspiring, yet Rose could tell he had been thinking about that a lot too before reaching that conclusion. She wanted to believe in Sorey’s words and as she let it sink in she could feel some weight being lifted off her chest. She glanced back toward Sorey seeing him trying to hide a yawn behind his hand. His gesture pushed a yawn of her own past her mouth. Stiffness had found its way through her limbs, stretching Rose stood back on her feet.

"Enough thinking for tonight, my body is reclaiming my beauty sleep. Time for us to go back to bed." She held her hand to Sorey.

Nodding at her, Sorey yawned again before taking her hand. Rose's eyes turned toward the closed entrance door where she swore she heard some breathy noise. She shrugged it off, helping Sorey up before biding him goodnight.

Unbeknownst to her, leaning on the wall on the other side of the entrance door Dezel tipped his hat over his colorless eyes. He blindly looked up toward the moon that never set her roundness half hidden behind low clouds. He concentrated on feeling the winds ascending toward the celestial body.

"He would be so proud of you."

 Hunting Dragons apparently involved more hours spent walking aimlessly in a forest for a change. Although it seems much older than Aroundight forest and much less humid than the forest bordering the marshland, nonetheless if Dezel's attitude had seemed grumpy so far now he was positively annoyed.

The Scouts had briefed the group that the Dragon had been followed deeply in this same forest, until it crawled back into a cave where they chose to go look for reinforcements. For now, it seemed there was no trace of a cave and even less trace of a Dragon nesting there. Moreover, they were in enemy territory, not far from the border, at any time they could have fallen on Sandoras' settlement.

Maybe his perception was a little skewed by the heaviness lingering in the air around them but Dezel could swear they had already passed several times in front of that same tree. He recognized how the wind was coming and going into its hollows. Even so, Dezel was troubled by how the winds seemed strange around here, they were pranksters that kept playing with him and Dezel didn't like how it affected his perception.

It wasn't in Dezel's habit to make his voice heard when he needed to protest because he was more a man of action and he knew very well that his companions were as annoyed as he was by the situation, if he were to judge by the way Rose had removed the map away from Sorey and Mikleo before an argument broke out, and he certainly did not want to worsen the mood, but there he could not afford to shut up when there was obviously something up only he could perceive.

"There's something wrong in here." He launched, cutting off Rose as she tried to indicate where they should be on the map.

Dezel was positive in what he asserted, sure his eyes were useless but all his other senses had never betrayed him. The winds which accompanied him constantly offered him a precise representation of his environment and if he concentrated enough, he could even perceive the colors in the smells.

That’s where seeing the problem with seeing what others couldn’t stood. It was obvious that they couldn't noticed how strange the forest was, something unnatural floating around them. Only a wind Seraph like him could.

Three pair of eyes turned toward Dezel. He could guess the others believed what he was saying but were waiting for more precision to agree with him.

"What do you mean?" Mikleo asked, and Dezel could feel the coolness of water landing on him.

Frowning, Dezel took a step towards the stream he heard flowing gently between the roots and the reeds a few feet away from the road. As quiet as he was, he still heard the fireflies flying out, disturbed by his presence.  His frown deepened when he understood.

His nose scrunched up as he huffed through it, "Don't you feel it too, Mikleo?"

Stepping aside in invitation, he made way for Mikleo to get closer to the stream. It took some seconds for Mikleo to join him and as he stared deeply at the gently drifting water, recognition settled on his face.

"The forest is sick, very much so. It seems the water is carrying poison through it. It would seem that the Dragon’s presence could be linked to that." He said, looking thoughtful and solemnness weighing his voice. His body stiffened under his growing wariness, and then he turned toward the humans of their group. "I think the air could be poisoned too. Even if I can't perceive any sign of it affecting me."

Dezel felt him throw a careful glance at Sorey as he observed the exchange that followed between Rose and Sorey. There was nothing he could argue over Mikleo’s suggestion.

Following his train of thought, Sorey held his chin in his hand, thoughtful "It would explain why there is no Sandoras' defense post around here. Maybe that poison acts as a natural defense for the Dragon"

Rose nodded in approval, "We've been exposed for quite a while now, yet I don't think I feel any different." She patted her clothes and felt herself up for anything strange that could have grown out of her body like fungus or odd protuberances.

Sorey's eyes deviated away from the conversation to look further into the forest. He said nothing but Dezel noticed the way he touched his chest before inhaling deeply and gulping like he had some trouble breathing. Sorey's body temperature was a just a bit hotter than usual and Dezel thought it was nothing out of the ordinary for any human that had been walking for hours, but now that the tainted air of the forest was brought to light, he couldn’t help but be alarmed by the almost imperceptible change within his human associate.

"Sorey?" it seemed someone else had perceived the change because Mikleo immediately went back to Sorey, gently putting a hand on his forehead. "You have a slight fever. Why haven't you said anything?"

"I just felt a little dizzy, that's all." Sorey responded, smiling as he pushed Mikleo's hand away from him.

"Must be harder on humans." Dezel mumbled.

Without anyone knowing, he promptly started to make the winds migrate around Rose and Sorey, making the atmosphere around them lighter. He stayed away as Rose and Mikleo forced Sorey to sit on a rock, forcing fresh water into his hands.

"I'm human too." Rose reminded and Dezel could feel some disapproval in her voice.

"You're different." He answered simply.

Reminding Rose how her Dragoon nature made her a lot more than a mere human was always a bad idea. Understanding of the loneliness it could bring upon her shoulder, he kept that part to himself, hiding his face with a tip of his hat. If his statement distressed Rose, she quickly let it go, focusing on Sorey instead.

After he had gulped the water the other offered him, Sorey let his head fall upon Mikleo's shoulder, resting a bit and letting some exhaustion show on his body. He must be more affected than he would let on if he let himself go like that.

"I'm okay, though. I just wasn't careful enough and let the heat go up my head. The atmosphere here is rather heavy." Sorey said.

He looked really sincere but Dezel was certain Mikleo too noticed how he was lying through his teeth. He expected the phrase Mikleo was about to say as Sorey rose up, gently pushing him away.

"We should continue to follow that path, if the poison is really affecting the forest we shouldn't dawdle anymore."

"You don't know how close to the truth you are."

As the unknown voice sounded, everyone was quick to adopt a defensive stance. Dezel’s finger closed firmly around his pendulum handle, the familiar pressure of metal reaching him through his gloved fingers. Yet he couldn't see the newcomer nor perceive him.

It was only when the man deigned to descend from the tree that he had obviously been resting upon only to land before them that Dezel started to have some sense of him.

The stranger was almost as tall as Dezel was, but boarder. He had long hair and wore a chain necklace over an otherwise bared chest, he could feel some large feathers ruffling near the man’s shoulder, his pants were tight and the belt holding them was very similar to the one Dezel used to store his weapon. It made Dezel purse his lips in distaste the very presence of that man making him angry.

The winds around that man were different, hot and wild and it was shifting Dezel’s perception. That man could only be another wind seraph.

"Zaveid the Dragon hunter!" Rose bellowed before Dezel could do anything else.

With Rose visibly knowing the intruder, some of the groups tension fell, yet Dezel wasn't ready to let his guard down just because Rose heard about some roadside stranger’s reputation.

"Well if it isn't that little Wind Rider mascot. You grew up pretty well." Zaveid responded stepping closer toward Rose.

Dezel grabbed Rose’s arm, putting her behind protectively. His chest puffed despite himself and he glared at the new comer. He could feel Rose’s arm on his, her protestation falling deafly on his ears. But it was like he could hear bits of her heart shatter as the other man mentioned her childhood in their former guild.

"State your business. What are you doing here?" Dezel all but growled at Zaveid.

Vaguely hearing Mikleo whisper to Sorey that obviously one wasn't nicknamed Dragon Hunter for nothing; Dezel chose to ignore them and bared his sharp teeth at Zaveid. The wind riders were long gone and that Zaveid should have known about their demise. Rose’s companions were the Sparrow Feathers now. Only few knew of them being the Scattered Bones too. The other might find no threat in this man but Dezel knew better, the least threatening looking faces were those of the betrayers.

Holding his hand up in peace, Zaveid tried to make himself smaller, calming the wild wind around him, "Only trying to do my job here. I was just going to let you know that the forest’s corruption is getting worse after a while."

Dezel lost some of his bite while being confronted to Zaveid’s nonthreatening attitude. He wanted to see some honesty in that man, but there was still the fact that he was severely grating on Dezel's nerves.

"Like what? Should we come back more prepared, "Sorey asked, curiosity winning over wariness.

Disbelief at being asked that kind of question first, Zaveid’s smile faltered and he seemed to hesitate before responding, "Like, Dragon's stuff, mutated trees and weird fungus everywhere. I don't even know why humans are so intent on following a Dragon there." He made a dismissive gesture with his hand. "It's not about coming back more prepared, kiddo, it's you going back home and letting old Zaveid take care of the Dragon."

He was suddenly more serious, his stance telling them that it was no joke. The wind around him kept changing and turning, adding to Dezel’s confusion about the man’s true intention.

Rose stepped past Dezel’s barrage, confronting Zaveid head on, one of her daggers held firmly grasped in her hand. "Worried a bunch of kids could take your prey?", she asked, taunting.

Dezel’s eyes widened, incredulity running fast into his veins when he registered he had let his guard down enough for Rose to pass by him before it was too late and she was out of his close protection. It was all Zaveid’s fault, that man was pushing weird buttons on him.

Zaveid shrugged, "It's more than you could take. I'm not letting you go further to as a meal for Feyrbrand and I won't hesitate to beat you senseless if I need to stop you."

Stepping back a few feet Zaveid held himself between them and the road, hand on his hips, he looked ready to fetch in his belt at the first sign of one of them trying to advance.

Dezel growled now that his bad feeling was proved true. If Zaveid wanted a fight, he was going to get one.  

"Like hell! You won't stop us." Dezel growled, not taking any orders from that man.

He was first to strike, his pendulum weights grazing Zaveid’s shoulder as a warning. Dezel was amazed by the speed with which Zaveid avoided the strike.

"Oh, feisty." Zaveid’s playfulness was replaced by a smirk, "Is that supposed to be a warning? I'll show you how it's done."

Nothing could have prepared Dezel for the pendulum coming right toward him in retaliation. The air started to taste like dust and rust from the bits of earth hidden within the core of Zaveid’s pendulum and if he had expected Zaveid’s weapon of choice to be similar to his own Dezel was just left speechless when he understood that it was exactly the same, to the bit of earth he used as catalyst.

The hit landed right on his chest, knocking the wind out of him. Dezel ungracefully fell on his butt startled by the strength in the strike, Rose’s call of his name ringing in his head.

After that, it was hard for Dezel to have a clear view of his surrounding, the world was muffled trough his blinded perception. Even so, he knew Mikleo and Sorey were quick to engage Zaveid, responding to Dezel's aggression. He heard the man laugh as the two younger men exchanged the firsts blow with him. They attacked from either side of him, Mikleo holding him back with his staff while Sorey’s attack came from a closer range.

It seemed like Zaveid was more of a longer range fighter so he was essentially blocking strikes as they came.

Rose gritted her teeth, "I'm not too fond of using up my vigor before being in front of the Dragon, but we don't have the time to deal with you, Zaveid. Not when Sandora’s troops are marching toward Bale."

Dezel knew what she was about to do. She kept overlooking how much Brad told her not to use that in front of strangers, how dangerous it was to have power not many could understand. But there was no stopping her. Rose's Dragoon Spirit was already shining in her hand, mana and darkness caressing Dezel's skin.

Zaveid froze, quickly holding his arm up to block Sorey’s sword as he came close to hitting him in the face, "That's a fucking Dragoon Spirit!" He almost choked, his eyes widened as he looked at the stone in Rose’s palm. "Wait, you can use that?"

He quickly stepped back, observing the other’s movement carefully as he put his pendulum back in his belt holders.

Dezel was finally rising up, rubbing at the sore spot on his shoulder as he tried to steady his breathing. His jaw was tight in anger and he growled again. Zaveid was disappointing him. He was greatly underestimating them if he thought the same ruse could work twice. Mikleo seemed to agree with Dezel that Zaveid’s retreat was not a sign of surrender. He was still holding a water arte, ready to send Zaveid flying away as soon as he was close enough.

"Yes, and I won't hesitate to do it." Rose finally responded, but the light in her hand was already dimming, the spirit refusing to turn her into a Dragoon when her enemy wasn't directly threatening her life.

"Kiddos, these days playing with toys they can't understand." Zaveid shook his head then ruffled his long hair, "Well, it's seem you are more than a pretty lady after all and maybe you have what it takes to take on a Dragon, after all. And that guy here has an interesting sword style." He said, pointing his finger at Sorey.

Sorey looked uncomfortable. "Thanks, but I don't know if it’s a compliment coming from you."

"Don't talk about Rose like that."

Dezel couldn't stand that man’s attitude anymore. He ignored Rose trying to stop him as he marched right toward Zaveid. If he didn't want to use a weapon then he would use his bare hands. His hand couldn't wait to be acquainted with Zaveid nose.

Zaveid laughed as Dezel’s long and heated strides brought him closer to Zaveid by the second. All the while holding his hands in peace and making wild gestures to try and appease the younger wind Seraph. He opened his mouth to calm Dezel, but his lips unexpectedly turned downward, his shoulder stiffening in warning.

"Dezel stop! Don't come any closer."

"As if I'll listen to you. You are reaping what you sowed."

Zaveid reached up, extending his arm to try and stop Dezel. But it was too late. Before he could understand, the ground beneath Dezel’s feet gave out, and he felt himself fall. The fall was abrupt and harsh, Dezel having no time to brace himself against the impact. Air was expelled loudly from his lungs as his back hit the ground, hard. His gasp reverberated against the cave wall.

He if could see anything, Dezel knew he would be seeing stars right now. There was no way to know how far he had fallen but he was sure the only light he could feel was coming from the hole he just made. Panic quickly rose into his brain when he realized he had lost his hat somehow during his fall, losing such a memento of his failure would be like stabbing himself repeatedly every time he forgot about why he needed to take revenge.

He grasped the soil around him, feeling around to find it.

"Dezel! Are you all right?" Rose's voice filtered through his choked breath, reassuring him somehow, grounding him.

Taking a deep breath to calm himself down, he looked at his hand, tasting the strange stickiness he felt on the bare part of his hand. Now that he was able to concentrate again, he could call on the winds, listening to them as they mapped and pictured the gallery he fell into for him. He could see tunnels, mud and strange mutated plants, his ears were still ringing but he could make out the noise of drops falling into a pond of some sort.

There was no mistaking what kind of creature had dug those massive tunnels. No wonder the whole forest’s soul was poisoned. Dezel gulped as he imagined the giant insectoid Dragon crawling there, secreting what ended up as being the stickiness on his hand.

Reaching in his hair to pull out some more cobwebs he glanced up toward the hole where Rose’s calls were gradually becoming urgent as Mikleo and Sorey's informed him they were coming down to get him.

He couldn't help but to let out another annoyed growl when Zaveid's voice started to ask about his situation too.

"I'm fine," He finally answered, finding out he was still a bit out of breath, "I think I found a shortcut to the Dragon's den."

Chapter Text

Mikleo's hand covered his mouth as he took in Dezel's disheveled appearance. He could almost feel the other’s pain over his lack of expression. The wind Seraph looked like he had seen better days. As Mikleo's eyes deviated toward the hole in the cave ceiling, he tried to repress a shiver as he calculated the fall Dezel just suffered. Really, it was no wonder he looked a little unfazed.

He was dirty, covered in a strange slimy looking substance and cobwebs, growling lowly while Zaveid tried to apologize profusely for not having warned him sooner. Dezel's shoulders were sagging as Rose handed him back his hat, and he flinched as it upset some pain in his shoulder.

Mikleo would have prepared a healing arte if he wasn't so certain it was more of Dezel's pride that was hurt. After all he was still bickering with Zaveid with Rose in the middle to hold him back.

Looking around him to take in the groups surrounding, Mikleo's curious eyes landed on the wall. Most of the cave surface was covered with the same substance Dezel had on him. At first it (he) thought it was just wetness and before he could prevent himself his hand reached to touch the wall experimentally with the tip of his finger.

A disgusted grimace stirred on his face as Mikleo tested the elasticity of the substance. It was sticky, thick and smelled of rot, and it was everywhere making the ground slippery. But there was some beauty in it because from the hole in the ceiling, light filtered and it made the strange slime glitter as it gently touched it.

Regretting having touched what he thought was obviously insect secretion, Mikleo was half-way considering wiping his finger on Zaveid as a small revenge. Even if his intentions were to protect them from being eaten by the Dragon he still attacked them. That wasn't a way to do things that Mikleo could relate to.

Frowning at the others who were forging a plan for their next action, Mikleo choose to observe the environment again. They still don't know which way to go and trying to figure how the cave worked would be best before they proceed.

The cave ceiling looked like it was held by a tall pillar, stalagmite and stalactite meeting in a bulbous formation. Mikleo remembered having seen some things similar in books about insects. It looked much like the sketch of an anthill. To Mikleo's knowledge that network of cave couldn't be old enough to have that kind of formation, and if he looked more closely, it seemed that the pillars were made of the same secretion as the wall but it had been chewed then spit before solidifying.

Fungus and moving plants littered the grounds around him and Mikleo had trouble trying not to step on them. Some mushroom emitted a gentle fluorescent glow, luminous in the darkness, and it wasn't hard to imagine they could light the entire path, some specimen even reached toward the ceiling.

It was full of wonder, violet eyes shining in mirth that Mikleo turned back toward Sorey to acknowledge that yes, that cave was pretty cool.

But his smile faltered when he saw Sorey’s dulled eyes, focusing nowhere in particular. Mikleo knew Sorey too well to be fooled by nice words and reassurance, Sorey was unwell and trying to hide it. It pained him that his friend would rather lie to him than say he was ill in front of others. He thought they went over this long ago when Sorey's young body had grown out of his weak state and Mikleo knew it wasn't Sorey pride that prevented him from telling about his sickness. But Sorey was like that, he just didn't want to worry the others when they were so close to a deadly threat.

And that was the problem.

Looking at Zaveid, Mikleo wondered if the Dragon hunter would accept lending him a hand in the fight, the more there were the more he could keep a close eye on Sorey. But even if Zaveid showed concern after Dezel’s fall and followed the group into the cave it didn't mean he could be trusted just yet. After all, he was rather intent in incapacitating them by force.

"Hey guys, looks like that water is still pure!"

Sorey’s exclamation returned Mikleo's attention back to him. He was already plunging his finger into a small pool of clear water, creating gentle waves on its still surface.

Crossing his arms over his chest, Mikleo scowled, bottom lip jutting out, "You should have made sure it wasn't poisoned before touching it," he rebuked, even though he was used to Sorey's recklessness by now.

"It's fine, look," Sorey answered, treading his fingers between the water.

Now that he looked closer, Mikleo could tell why Sorey was so adamant that the water was unaffected by the Dragon poison. Even in the darkness he could see the small normal looking salamanders, their lives unaffected by the poison as they swarmed between Sorey's fingers to go hide under rocks at to bottom of the pond.

Putting a hand on his hip, Zaveid voice cheered, "At least the entire forest isn't spoiled. Then there is hope it would slowly grow back to normal once the Dragon is killed."

Sorey frowned at that, his head tilting as he rose back on his feet. He touched his feather earing absentmindedly and looked upset, "Do we really have to kill it?" he inquired, eyes looking up pleadingly at Zaveid, "Couldn't we just tame him and bring him somewhere safer for a Dragon?"

Mikleo knew it would eventually come to that. However dangerous it was, Sorey would show compassion for any living thing. Because Sorey hadn't expressed his will to spare the Dragon until then, Mikleo almost thought that he was aware of how impossible it was for them to save the Dragon from Sandora. It soothed his heart somehow that Sorey was so eager to save the beast but he just couldn't let him nourish illusions that would eventually hurt him. He was about to argue when Zaveid beat him,

"Not when humans use them as weapons, no." Zaveid shook his head, not looking pleased with his own answer, "See how it affects the environment? There wouldn't be Dragon hunters like me if those could be left unattended. Plus do you know how far the land of the Dragons truly is?"

At first Sorey looked disappointed even though he could see Zaveid’s point, then his eyes suddenly lit up and Mikleo found some relief before he too processed the meaning behind Zaveid's words, "So it does exist? The land of the Dragon?"

He and Sorey exchanged a knowing glance when they noticed that they spoke at the same time. Once and again the prospect of discovering wonders of the world overcame the situation, making Mikleo nearly forget about Sorey lying about his body's condition as he looked forward to seeing that place with their own eyes, the both of them traveling there.

Zaveid’s brow rose up at their enthusiasm, amber eyes widening in wonder as Rose grinned, "Yeeees." He drawled not sure if he should inform them about that place.

They exploded in delight, already turning to the other and forming conjectures at the localization and the prospect of many Dragons living together and raising pups and flying over their territories.

"That's our resident nerds and ruin enthusiasts." Rose explained, gesturing toward them.

Shrugging, Zaveid turned his attention toward Dezel instead. He put his arm over the other’s shoulder, ignoring the warning growl that rose from Dezel's throat. "At least now that I know you have Dragoon spirits, I'm willing to let you have a go at the Dragon."

Dezel abruptly pushed him away, the violence of his fall may have cooled down most of his anger, but Zaveid was quick in lighting him like a match. Mikleo had never saw Dezel show so much range of expression before, he was clearly irked by the other seraph.

Maybe it was something between wind seraphim?

"That's very generous of you." Rose humored him, "Though I was kinda looking forward to handing your ass back to you." She said.

 Her eyes narrowed in warning as a grin found its way on her lips.

"Ladies can be pretty scary too." Zaveid mumbled, glancing back at Mikleo and moving his hand in a suggestive manner like Rose was some kind of demon he should be wary of.

"Are you joining us then, Zaveid? You seem to have experience with Dragons, your help would be welcomed."

Mikleo scrunched his nose at Sorey’s suggestion, while he was right that Zaveid’s help could be useful, Sorey couldn't have missed just how much resulting tension there was between him and Dezel. The group cohesion was the result of many days spent together and hard fights shared, and Mikleo knew it was risky to go back to step one just before a decisive battle.

Putting his hand against his heart, Zaveid seemed much moved by Sorey's proposition, "You really are something, you know that." He couldn't help but to ruffle Sorey’s hair. Just when Mikleo put so much effort in taming them this morning, "But I leave this to you, couldn't risk you stealing my secret technic, right?" he blinked at Dezel, making him splutter and hiss back at him.

"Then we should be one our way. Hope we'll never meet you again, Zaveid." He growled, crossing his arm over his chest.

Dezel seemed impatient to see the other go away, his phrase wasn't finished and he was already walking deeper into the cavern. He quickly looked over his shoulder to see if the others had caught his hint and were following him, but glared at them when it looked like they were still busy seeing Zaveid off.

"Rude," Zaveid shoulders dropped, but his face showed seriousness, "Just take my advice for what worth you gave it. That Dragon was on Sandora’s side in the war, which means that it’ll have a master. Oh, and don't worry I'll be there to finish the work if you fail."

"We won't," Rose shook her head, muttering something about Dragon hunters taking all the fame.

With that said, Zaveid waved them goodbye before going back toward the rope they used to go down into the cave. Mikleo watched as he climbed up the rope, with Dezel urging the group on following them.

"Come on, ignore that buffoon. I want to be out of the forest before nightfall."

There was no arguing over that. They settled a prudent pace, Dezel leading the way once again with assured steps. Mikleo could tell he was reading the wind to find the Dragon and its scent as he kept sniffing the air and making face at the foul odors mingling in the cave. As they progressed into the networks of cave, silence settled between them. The proximity of their enemy and anxiety about being literally walking into the lion's den hung over them like a metaphorical fog.

Spore from numerous mushroom formed a small cloud around their ankles and sometimes they would pass by mutated plants that moved like it was looking directly as them adding to the overall feeling of weirdness clinging to Mikleo. He sincerely hoped the forest could recover from this poison. A forest without birds and wildlife was not a forest anymore but a dead land. Maybe all life was not lost, those plants and mushroom were new species born from the poison but they stifled anything else that existed before them, killing an entire ecosystem with rich floral diversity that took hundreds of year to settle in this environment.

It took only a few months for the Dragon to destroy it.

From time to time, Mikleo would glance at Sorey, just to make sure his condition wasn't worsening. To Mikleo's relief Sorey gradually looked a little better as they progressed, making him wonder if he hadn't been too fast in reproaching Sorey as hiding his condition. Maybe it was nothing after all.

His green eyes kept looking at everything in curiosity and wonder and more than once Mikleo was nearly caught staring as Sorey's eyes kept glancing back at him. It was obvious Sorey was checking up on him, and Mikleo couldn't help but feel guilty that he had been doing the same thing.

He even saw Rose smile at them, knowing that they were both idiots.

It was glaring back at Rose that Mikleo noticed that cobwebs were covering entire portions of wall by now, hanging from the ceiling when Dezel held his arm in front of them, stopping their progression.

"There is a large room behind that cobweb." He just said.

Rose tentatively lifted the thing, grimacing as it stuck to her fingers and revealed a hole in the wall. A blind over a door.

Dezel was the first to enter, holding a finger against his lips to intimate them to be silent. Mikleo’s eyes widened at the huge room they discovered. He observed small holes in the high ceiling, allowing natural light to filter between the cobwebs. They hung in silky treads plunging from the ceiling to the ground forming an almost translucent waterfall pooling at the ground below like a blanket.

A table laid for a Dragon’s meals.

"Who is there?" a voice rang from the shadow behind the web waterfall.

Echoes of boots against the cavern ground filled Mikleo's ear with dread as someone walked out of the shadow into the light. The man, no the seraph if Mikleo where to guess looking at his long silver hair gathered into a low ponytail, peered at the group from his higher stop on a rock. His face bore signs of age, some of his features accented by small expression lines. He looked older than most of the seraph at Elysia.

His black outfit looked almost identical to the one Dezel wore, to the crossing the strap made in his tights and shoulders. He wore the same green colored shirt underneath his vest. It was too much of a coincidence. Eyes searching for Dezel in the dark, Mikleo wasn't expecting to find him trembling like a leaf.

The unknown seraph smiled at them, "Is that you Dezel?" Dezel’s knees looked about to give up when the man’s smile faltered, "Is it cruel irony that you ventured here?"

His voice was low and kind like a parent talking to a child, yet there was something on his face that disturbed Mikleo. Instinctively, he stood closer to Sorey’s left side. If he was still sick, like Mikleo suspected, he wanted to be ready to protect him at any sign of danger. Dezel’s visible distress was adding to Mikleo guardedness.

"Do you know him?" Sorey asked before Mikleo could say anything.

Jumping at Sorey words, Dezel's jaw worked before he reigned down his shaking fingers. Then rising his chin, he took a step toward the older looking seraph before his breath got caught in his throat.

"Lafarga…" he breathed out, like it pained him refusing to acknowledge what the wind was murmuring to him, "The seraph who founded the Wind Riders..."

"Dezel? What does this mean?" Rose worried, her hand distractedly running over her knife hilt.

 Dezel’s focus remained solely on Lafarga, "No, you couldn't be here. I saw you die with Brad." Dezel said, hand balling into fists at his side

His only answer was to keep smiling at Dezel, "I see that you kept my old hat. I'm flattered that you mourned me still." Then he turned his hooded eyes at Rose, his smile turning downward, "Though I should have known you wouldn't remember me Rosebud." he sighed, shaking his head in regret.

Rose startled, her gaze sliding between Dezel and Lafarga as confusion seized her.

  "How could you … if you are alive then it means …could it have been made up? And what of Brad, he-"

Dezel was being incoherent, no proper phrase coming out of his mouth. Even though he had never been eloquent to begin with it felt wrong to see him so distressed, so lost. It was like his pain radiated from him and touched Mikleo, like the wind was starting to cry in anger and pain.

It was no use trying to make something out of Dezel babbling, but Mikleo did understand that the other was also a wind seraph and he suspected he had something to do with what Dezel confided that night in Hoax. That other seraph had been with Rose and him before.

Zaveid’s words of warning came back to Mikleo and he wondered if the Dragon hunter knew what they would find in the Dragon's dens depth. It certainly could explain why he was so familiar with Dezel and why he wanted so much to block their path. Now it somehow felt like his stepping back on the fight was so Dezel could meet this Lafarga alone.

"You know me, Dezel. I never do something without a good reason. I would try to explain my reason for betraying the Windriders and leaving them to their downfall but would it really have any meaning?" Lafarga responded.

"I remember you now! You were my master’s right hand man." Rose’s blue eyes lit up in recognition when she found a forgotten friend in front of her. Then hurt switched her face into a distorted expression when more memories surfaced. "You sold us to the enemy. You gave them Brad to execute." Her lip trembled, her hair shadowing her eyes as she lowered her head.

Lafarga gave her a pained smile, ignoring Dezel as he cried his rage and accusation at him. There were parts of what happened back then that were still obscure to Dezel. But Rose couldn't be lying, if she said Lafarga was the one behind the accusation that put a death sentence on Brad's head then it was the cruel truth.

Again, Lafarga refused to respond to Dezel's rage, "You grew up well, Rosebud. And you became a Dragoon, just like your foster father predicted you would."

Like it was stirred by Rose’s emotion, her Dragoon's spirit awakening reached Mikleo and his spirit responded in kind, his circlet warming on his forehead. He saw Rose’s hand pass over her pocket where the stone was safely kept.

Stunned by Lafarga's revelations, Dezel staggered back as he allowed his confusion and anger to take the better of him. He was staring at his trembling hand, mumbling as he struggled to make sense to all of this.

In the corner of his eyes, Mikleo saw Sorey grip his sword and clench his jaw, obviously aching to say or do something to help their friend. Mikleo’s hand brushed Sorey's and they exchanged a glance, silently agreeing to let Dezel and Rose handle their past. Sorey’s shoulders relaxed, but his hand stayed on his sword, ready to act at first sign of danger.

"You have no right to talk about him like that!"   Dezel shook his head, taking deep breath to regain his focus." You… did you really betray us? I…I…thought you chased Symonne away that night and that she gave our position in retaliation but… Were you plotting with her the whole time? Against us? Against your friends? Your brothers?" Dezel couldn't believe his own words.

Sighing wearily, Lafarga held Dezel’s murderous glare, "You still hold a grudge against me twelve years after? You are a Seraph, Dezel. You better than anyone should know that sharing your life with humans is nothing but a small fragment of your existence."

Mouth hanging open, Dezel was left speechless. Mikleo bit his lips because he didn't need to be reminded of this, because he felt it more than once reaching into the core of his soul, because from the moment he knew humans had a much shorter lifespan than seraphim, he knew Sorey would become that, a fragment of his long life. Even so, Mikleo would give up on everything he had if it means he could spend all Sorey's life with him, however short it was. They would make memories he would treasure forever until the end of time.

Mikleo was certain Dezel may feel the same way about his human companions. He had enough of those older Seraphim assuming for him that he wouldn't like that.

Dezel’s rage was doused in cold fire, "I…I want an answer! Why did you betray us?"

"You are blinded by your need for vengeance and you can’t see the whole picture. Sometimes a sacrifice is necessary."

Lafarga's choice of words stung like a spear in the side or like the monster that took Dezel's sight after the enemies had razed the Windriders base camp. Last thing he saw was enemies taking Lafarga to his feet as that Seraph girl smiled and happily pranced in the carnage.

Perhaps he was blind, but his mind never lost focus at what needed to be done.

Dezel righted his back, standing tall before Lafarga, "Maybe it was indeed cruel irony I wandered here with Rose at my side, because together we can finally put Brad’s soul to rest." Rose looked conflicted as Dezel seemed to search for her approval, but when she finally nodded, her hands gripping her knives tightly in her palms, he got ready for battle, "Maybe it is time to pay for your crimes."

"Then so be it. I'll give you a chance to avenge your fallen companions. Try, and see if you can best me and my newly acquired power."

Lafarga’s gentle smile never left his lips as soft green light flickered from his breast. It slowly took over his form like a wind rising and enveloping him. It sang right into Mikleo's soul and he could tell Rose felt it too.

"Emerge, power of the Dragon." Lafarga said as the wind covered his body.

The group braced themselves, Mikleo and Sorey readying their weapon as this fight became more than Rose and Dezel could handle on their own.

"We should have seen it coming!" Rose launched, "Only a Dragoon could control a Dragon" disbelief still coated her words, even though her grip on her knives tightened and determination settled in her eyes.

The wind around Lafarga became colder and sharp, abruptly dispersing away from him but he kept standing, unmoving before the four of them.

In his black attire’s place stood a jade green Dragoon armor, a headband held his silver hair back green and gold while pale yellow wings wavered in the dim light. A spear was summoned in his hand, the wood turned into a brown motif reminiscent of the scale forming his armor. But he never turned that spear toward them.

Mikleo's breath caught in his throat as everyone waited for the first strike to come whether it came from them or Lafarga was still to be determined.

"Guys!"

Sorey’s warning resonated just as something stirred from the darker depth of the cavern behind Lafarga. A shrill cry echoed within the wall making Mikleo's skin crawl as the green tusked Dragon emerged from the shadows, holding its elongated body under the beam of light. It held its position behind its master as Lafarga's hooded eyes peered over Dezel and Rose.

How could they have missed the Dragon lurking in the shadow was beyond Mikleo but now that he was facing Feyrbrand again he was pleased to discover that the primal fear it inspired was something he could handle now. With Sorey at his side and the Dragoon power on his forehead, Mikleo felt like he could defeat entire armies.

"You see, Dezel. Symonne came to me because her master saw me fit to adorn that armor. And now if Emperor Diaz wants Sandora to win that war, so be it." Lafarga continued to talk as if he wasn't threatening the group with a Dragon guarding his side.

"It couldn't be!" Sorey exclaimed, "Emperor Diaz was the first Dragoon Shepherd eleven thousand years ago. He was human! He couldn't still be alive after so long."  Sorey had to let that statement out, he couldn't tell if that Seraph was lying but… it was just impossible.

"The truth isn't always what it seems to be, boy. No let's see if you have the courage to stand against a legendary Dragoon."

Lafarga turned his spear at Sorey and the Dragon growled, its front claws flailing as it crawled before its master. Its tusk moved in rhythm with its jaw as it snapped at Sorey. The dragon let out a frustrated growl when Sorey easily avoided the attack with a backstep. It seemed luck was on their side because the Dragon was still drowsy from sleep, its movement sluggish and predictable.

"Ready Mikleo? There is no turning back now." Sorey shouted as he regrouped with Mikleo.

Dezel nodded, but his focus never left his objective, "Come on and fight me! Don't hide behind your pet Dragon."

His pendulum wiped past Lafarga who immediately took air, Dragoon wings beating gently and moving the cobwebs around them.

"Don't be presumptuous."

As Lafarga twirled his lance in his hand, it moved the wind flows and before he could react, Dezel was knocked off of his feet by the small tornado that struck him by surprise. Rose was quick to react, already wearing her armor she started to chase after Lafarga. Dezel gathered himself and got back on his feet, his pendulum clacking repeatedly against rock as he chased after Lafarga.

"Mikleo, Sorey, you divert the Dragon’s attention! I and Dezel will handle Lafarga."

"But-" Sorey tried to protest.

"This is our fight." Dezel hissed his jaw clenched tight.

Understanding that it was neither the moment nor the place to argue with Dezel, Mikleo focused on the Dragon. As it appeared, the beast was standing on its long legs, coming right toward them. They have an advantage over the fact that the Dragon couldn't fly very high in the closed space of the cave. It would be at his advantage to turn into a Dragoon for he could fly and be more mobile but Mikleo’s instinct told him to gather a little more of the mana he felt flowing into him from all around the forest.

His knuckles whitened from how hard he clutched his staff, willing his hand not to tremble as he pushed his fear deeper into his mind. He had to think quickly, from the corner of is eye he could see Sorey’s face frowning as he too started to think of a strategy.

But first they needed to attract the Dragon’s attention because Rose was making a good target for it and she couldn't focus on Lafarga if she had to keep avoiding the dragon's claws and jaw.

"Mikleo, the Dragon is a wind elemental right?" Sorey asked, but his tone made Mikleo aware that he already had the answer, and he refused to give the little push Sorey was reaching for. "Remember the little trick I learned from Mason?"

Eyes widening as he realized what Sorey was suggesting, Mikleo tried to make him change his mind, "Oh, no, no, no you don’t- Sorey come back here !"

Not listening to Mikleo call back, Sorey was already running toward the Dragon's side. Mikleo bit his tongue when the Dragon’s claw nearly chopped Sorey’s head right off his shoulders. But Sorey had quick reflexes and the beast was too big to turn its whole body when he managed to pass behind its right legs.

As a human raised by Seraphim, creatures of magic and elements, Sorey had always been surrounded by mana and different life forces coming from the earth. Mikleo knew he was attuned to it, resonance running high in Sorey's veins. That's why he had never thought it was strange or abnormal for a human to be able to summon a bit of each element. It was his encounter with Rose and Alisha that had Mikleo start to think that maybe Sorey shouldn't be able to do it here, that it wasn't a common ability among humans.

Yet Sorey, only listening to his recklessness had charged at the dragon without knowing if he could use that kind of martial arte or not.

Breath catching in his throat, Mikleo turned into a Dragoon before he was conscious of it, yet his heart soared in relief when he saw Sorey’s ritual sword lit up in flame, blinding as a torch. It worked.

"Sword Flare !" Sorey cried, calling on his little bit of mana as he struck the Dragon leg.

The dragon roared angrily as the flame licked its leg, scorching its scales. Now its whole focus was on Sorey and Rose threw a quick thank you as she parried Lafarga’s lance trying to rip her wings.

"I knew it was weak to fire!" Sorey rejoiced.

But it was a brief respite, now Mikleo had to stop being a spectator. He saw the Dragon’s abdomen move from under it and soon enough it stood back up. From its rear end it fired treads of white silk in a fast retaliation. Sorey couldn't avoid everything fast enough and most of his leg was held under a thick cover of sticky silk and as he was busy struggling to escape from it. The silk was hardening by the second, trapping Sorey’s leg in a cocoon while the Dragon’s jaw opened to try and take a bite at him.

"I won't let you!"

It was a strange sensation to discover that in his Dragoon form, his seraphic arte came at will, no charging of mana needed and Mikleo was left baffled in his surprise as power surged out of him.

Ice rose from the ground below the Dragon’s middle section, it formed a scissor that cut right through the softer carapace. Yellow green goo oozed from the gaping wound and the Dragon thrashed around, screaming while it stepped back into the cavern depths.

Mouth slightly agape in disbelief, Mikleo blinked to gather himself but he still had a hard time accepting the new strength of an arte he had used a hundred times before. He gazed at his hand, encased in the blue glove the Dragoon spirit gave to him.

This thing… that power… some part of Mikleo wished he never would have to see the full extent of the Dragoon ability. It was just too much. Much more than he could grasp right now and it terrified him.

"Mikleo!" Sorey called to him.

One beat of wings was all it took for Mikleo to stand beside Sorey. He was hopelessly pulling on the thread around his legs as it was anchoring him to the ground and making him an easy target. Hand passing over the cocoon, Mikleo froze the surface encasing it in a thin layer of ice, and then Sorey swiftly broke the cocoon with his sword.

"It stinks!" he complained as he pulled his leg out.

"Stay alert, it's not over yet."

The Dragon seemed really angry as it eventually came back for them, nursing his wound with one of its claws. It shook his scales, readying itself for a charge.

Sorey felt way lighter than he ever was in Mikleo's arms, the Dragoon wings effortlessly bringing them both away from the Dragon rushing into the cavern. It mindlessly ran right into a wall head first, and stunned the Dragon fell on its side.

Mikleo thanked the lack of proper lighting because he could feel the heat on his cheeks and he loathed his fair completion that made it hard to hide how red he was when he registered his position, Sorey huddled against his chest with his arm holding tight on Mikleo's waist. He quickly let him go, and if Sorey noticed his predicament in the movement, he didn't comment on it.

He stepped away from Mikleo in silence, short pants coming out of his mouth. "I… I… something's wrong." He breathed.

But Dezel's battle cry rang into the cavern at the same time, drowning out Sorey’s warning. Mikleo’s mind was racing in his head because the Dragon was already standing up on wobbly legs. He had to act now to have a chance to end this fight before any of them got injured or worse. He didn't see Sorey start to shake behind him.

Inhaling a deep breath, Mikleo’s hand closed around the handle on his hammer where he had left it on the ground. The mana around him was waning slightly, the natural connection he had with the water blurring with each passing second. Being in his Dragoon form was taxing, more than he was sure it should be. Mikleo obviously still had to get used to it.

Soaring high into the cavern, Mikleo gathered momentum to fall back onto the Dragon. The Dragon’s triangular head made a sickening crunch when it met with the flat side of the giant hammer. The blow pushed the Dragon back into the ground and Mikleo struck again lifting the hammer before making it fall back.

He tried not to look as he fell on the creature, hammer lifted with his trembling arms. Again, and again, and again, it fell on the Dragon’s scaly head, beady eyes glazing as the Dragon’s limbs jumbled despairingly trying to escape from Mikleo.

There wasn't any satisfaction in killing the Dragon. Mikleo wished they could have just tamed it too, but after it started threatening his friend, after he saw the dying forest, corruption eating into its entrails… there was no other choice.

A dying screech rose from the Dragon’s throat while Mikleo’s armor dissipated, all of his mana spent. Tired beyond his own understanding, Mikleo managed to stand up straight, solid ground feeling strange under his feet after how natural it was to fly.

Breathless, he glanced at the Dragon one last time, lips pulled tight in sorrow. Mikleo turned his head away unable to look at what he did. He looked around him, searching for Sorey but before he could find his best friend, the scene his eyes landed on sapped all the strength he had left.

Sorey was standing beside Rose as she was crouching before their enemy, holding tight on her daggers. One was in Lafarga’s chest, the other in his stomach.

 Dezel was standing protectively over them. Mikleo slowly walked toward them and the echoes of his steps were deafening in the silence. Lafarga didn't spare Dezel from what Mikleo could see, a large gash marring his flank and his arm lying limply with what seemed to be a dislocated shoulder but the look on his face spoke if a deeper invisible wound, nothing Mikleo’s healing arte could mend.

Clouded eyes looked on the verge of tears as Dezel silently listened to Lafarga’s pained breathing. Rose’s shaking hands eventually let go of her daggers and she would have had fallen on her behind if it wasn't for Sorey holding onto her shoulders. Lafarga was smiling at the girl. There was no trace left of his Dragoon armor, just an older Seraph waiting for death to bring him back to Soa.

"You… you have Brad’s strength." He breathed out to Rose.

She looked at him, pain filling the blue of her eyes as she glanced back to Dezel seeking support. She silently begged him to say something, anything.

"I still…" Dezel breathed deeply, holding his wounded side. His hand instinctively reached for his hat, but it wasn't in it usual place atop his head, "I don't understand. Why did you betray the Windriders ? You…you weren't like that."

Lafarga took a difficult breath, coughing as he searched for the right words. "Nobody could defeat us. Brad was the strongest man I ever met... He was strong and … strength could attract unwanted attention. We had many enemies and even our allies started to lose trust in us." He blinked, and maybe it was a trick of the light but Mikleo saw a tear leave the seraph’s hooded eye. "I had… I admired him but I despised his strength… because I knew I would never be as strong as him… that the Windriders would be lost without that strength. Many wanted Brad’s head because as a mercenary he just couldn't pick a side… and I started to feel this fear. This fear from realizing the limits of my ability… this fear that goes nowhere. I cursed my weakness and I cursed Brad for his strength."

A coughing fit interrupted him, tremors shook his body but Lafarga calmed down when Dezel’s hand held his shoulder, grounding him.

"You couldn't overcome your fear. Brad was human and old age would gradually leave the Windriders without a leader. Before long you would have been left behind, not strong enough to hold the group together."

"Dezel…"

Lafarga smiled, blood painting his lips red as he weakly lifted his hand to put it over Dezel's, "You know, right. That feeling, you understand it. How I wish you would have never had to." Then Lafarga’s features twisted as he frowned, "She came with an alternative to me, offering me enough strength to stay beside Brad and hold the group together long after his eventual passing. Symonne gave me the Dragoon Spirit."

In his weakened state, Lafarga had trouble lifting the green stone out of his pouch, yet he managed to present it to them, holding it into the light. He tightened his fist around it before letting it rest beside him.

"She must have known it would turn me into this, a Dragoon Seraph eaten by his fear and his thirst for power, using my strong feelings to slowly kill the Seraph in me, to give birth to the Hellion I'm today."

Lafarga’s revelation left Mikleo breathless. He gasped his mouth opening to ask further questions but he felt a hand close around his arm, Rose held him back, silently asking him to leave that moment to Dezel.

Breath coming shorter, Lafarga blinked again opening his eyes becoming harder, "Before long I had no choice but to obey her if I wanted to save the Windriders from myself… the only sacrifice needed was Bras and he… he kindly accepted his fate. I still wasn't…never had been as strong as he was… but I'm glad."

His unfocused eyes found Rose's. "You and Dezel both succeeded where I failed. Now… I can be reunited with…Brad… the Windriders will live on and…you will pass our will to the futures generations… "

In the end Lafarga didn't ask for forgiveness. His eyes closed while his gentle smile remained on his lips, light from the Dragoon spirit in his hand glowed fiercely and bathed him. When the light dimmed, only the stone was left on the ground.

"You should have known that greed for power conquers you. As you taught me." Dezel breathed, hiding his eyes behind his hair as he tilted his head. "I'll find Symonne and avenge you." He hissed.

Like responding to Dezel, the spirit started to glow, the same chant it made when Mikleo's awoke echoed between the cave walls, softly soothing them.

Dezel reached for it and as he held it in his palm it glowed brightly.

"It has recognized you as its master." Rose stated, picking up her daggers.

Lips turning down in a frown, Dezel seemed rather reluctant to hold the spirit, he clicked is tongue in annoyance. "It's what Lafarga left for me. I understand the weight of it."

"Dragoon gather around the Shepherd, it's too much to be a coincidence. I don't really believe in fate, though." Rose shook her head, glancing at Mikleo.

He was confused to say the least, hand covering his mouth as he pondered over the situation. Rose told him he could renounce the Dragoon power at any time but… his eyes found Sorey's dulled green over reddened cheeks… it felt right to protect him with that power.

Another light attracted everyone’s attention and all heads turned toward the source. The fallen Dragon corpse had erupted into a multitude of small green balls of light, like a cloud of fireflies dispersing they slowly faded back into the darkness.

"The Dragon too was called back to Soa." Rose’s voice marked the end of their contemplation.

Mikleo turned back to Sorey with a smile but it was worry who showed on his face as he noticed that Sorey’s sickness was coming back at him tenfold, it was already too late to hold him back as Sorey’s knee buckled, giving way under him.

"Ah…" Sorey breathed out, righting himself before falling.

"Sorey !"

Mikleo was next to him the moment after, hands lifting Sorey’s face as he tried to see him better in the dim light. He was pale, deathly so if not for the fever reddening his cheeks, his breath coming in short pants out of his mouth and sweat was matting his hair. The fight with the Dragon couldn’t have left him in this state because Mikleo had made sure the monster wouldn't harm Sorey.

"I can't… breathe." Sorey managed between painful gasps.

"Is it… the poison?" Mikleo refused to believe his own words as he searched Dezel and Rose’s faces for an answer.

Worry was gnawing at him, closing its cold claw around Mikleo’s stomach and heart. He couldn't think straight, trying to hold Sorey upright as his body sagged on Mikleo's shoulder.

"Lohan city's close by. The healer here is a big name, I'm sure he will know what to do." Rose suggested.

"We need to hurry. I'll carry Sorey on my back."

"You can barely stand and you are smaller than him it would be best if I carry him." Dezel protested.

"And you have a gaping wound on your side which would bleed out before we are out of this forest if you carry a weight, plus your back his probably black and blue after your fall. I could do it but I think I may have a concussion which makes Mikleo the most qualified to carry Sorey. That is to say, stop arguing we all need to see that doctor as soon as possible."

He stifled a pained gasp as the wound on his side throbbed as if responding to Rose, Dezel's protest died on his tongue. They had no time to think of any other plan because Mikleo had already hefted Sorey on his back, hunched over because of the other’s weight. Not listening to any protest his tired body could make, Mikleo was already advancing toward the other end of the cave toward where the wind currents were guiding him. They had been so close to the cave entrance the scout had talked about.

"You became heavier since the last time I had to do this." Mikleo whispered harshly, talking to Sorey to force him awake.

He felt Sorey’s cheek nuzzle his shoulder, hot breath falling on his neck.

"You were the taller one back then."

Hearing Sorey’s slight laugh eased the knot in Mikleo’s stomach, but his small relief was short lived when Sorey coughed violently, his hacking nearly making the both of them fall face fist in the dust. He felt Sorey’s cough resonate in his head, sending aches pounding in his ear and it was only shear will that kept Mikleo standing. He was exhausted, out of mana and seeing his worst fear coming to reality but he wasn't about to give up just yet. Sorey needed him more than ever.

"Hold on, please Sorey. Hold on… I can't make it without you." Mikleo breathed the last part almost inaudibly.

There was no way to know if Sorey had heard that last part, but he felt Sorey squeeze his upper arm, anchoring himself for Mikleo.

Chapter Text

Passing a lit candle in front of Sorey's eyes, the doctor hummed in consideration as he observed the lack of reflective reaction. Features lightened by the flame, Sorey remained impassive, no emotions or flinch brought by the proximity of fire. His eyes were wide open but unmoving, his breath was steady and calm while the doctor examined him. And even when he put a cold metallic stethoscope on his bare back Sorey remained still and pliant under the doctor’s fingers, just like a doll.

He had been brought into the doctor's personal office, a little away from the main clinic for his case required particular attention and was lying down on a bed which seemed too luxurious for a public hospital. The town hustling and bustling was a background noise that penetrated the thick walls even from so far from the main market place. Lohan was a town full of life, the war seemingly having no impact on its residents’ lives.

 A vase full of fresh flowers decorated the nightstand but the air in the room was saturated by the mixed scent of sage and lemon balm used to make the salve that Rose was carefully applying on Dezel's wound. What Artes could not mend was cleaned and stitched with great care, enough that Dezel barely felt any lingering pain.

Mikleo remained standing a few feet away from the doctor. Arms crossed over his chest as he wasn't allowing his need to stand beside Sorey to hinder the doctor's work.

The doctor put the candle back down in a trolley that was full of strange contraptions and medical tools which functions Mikleo could only guess. The doctor’s golden brown gown told of his high standing and Mikleo didn't doubt he was as best as Rose described him to be, yet when the doctor let out another noncommittal sound, running a hand though his cropped blond hair, Mikleo had to swallow back the pained sound that tried to rise from his throat. Shaking his head, the doctor finally turned his attention away from Sorey, addressing the rest of the group.

"I couldn't believe it was Dragon's poison until I saw it with my own eyes. I have never seen such symptoms."

Mikleo balled his fists at his side, not liking were this diagnostic was going. Jaw set firmly, he still refused to glance at Sorey's still form on the bed, and instead his violet gaze met Rose's as she finished fastening Dezel’s bandage.

"What do you mean?" She asked.

"There is nothing wrong with his body…at least that's how it seems. But it looks like his consciousness has closed inward after he arrived here. It's more like his mind was poisoned not his body… at this rhythm I'm afraid we won't be able to reach him in a few hours. After that it's only a matter of weeks before his body collapses and…"

There was nothing Mikleo could do but to take the news, yet he refused to acknowledge the implication that Sorey was slowly dying a quiet death. His hand clasped around his arm and he hugged himself as his emotions threatened to overflow.

The doctor didn't finish his phrase, letting the prospect of Sorey’s death linger in the room. He carefully picked up the salve and put it back on his trolley while still humming in thought, obviously searching his mind for a solution. Mikleo couldn't wait for him to formulate it.

"Can't you do something, anything?" He pleaded, doing his best not to let his voice break.

The doctor seemed surprised by Mikleo’s rise of voice, or he was simply startled out of his thinking, yet he gave a reassuring smile.

"I'll do everything I can. I'm not called the best doctor in Serdio for nothing. For now I stabilized the poison’s progression, he may regain consciousness for a while." Frowning as he helped Sorey put back on his shirt, he muttered, "What was such a young boy doing with a legendary monster?"

Mikleo heard the strange reproach yet he didn't mind it although that wasn't the case for Rose. She stood up from her stool, staring at the doctor in accusation, "He fought against it for the country. Now think hard! I'm sure there’s something you can do!"

It was easy to forget that Rose was a merchant used to confronting different behaviors from her interlocutor and one of Mikleo's brows rose in astonishment. He heard Dezel clicking his tongue in annoyance. It was true that the doctor’s train of thought was taking too much time, but his gentle manners and kind face reminded Mikleo that Sorey was in good hands and that's the man didn't make such a reputation by letting his patients die.

A sudden light shone in the doctor's eyes, illumining his whole face, "Hold on." He told the group.

With quick steps he walked toward a curtain in the back of his office. Drawing the curtain revealed a large and tall bookcase encased in the wall and he started to rummage through it. Mumbles and frustrated groans could be heard as the man searched. Had Sorey been conscious, Mikleo was certain he would have been left awed by such a collection of books.

Eventually, Mikleo’s feet brought him back to Sorey's bedside. He hesitated, looking at Sorey’s wide open eyes staring blankly at the ceiling, yet he ended up taking a stool and sitting down on it while his hand immediately closed around Sorey's fingers. Sorey was cold, unusually so, but the lump in Mikleo’s throat eased when he felt the skin warming up at his contact.

"There!" the doctor suddenly exclaimed.

While he prudently climbed down a ladder with his prize in hand, the doctor’s smile looked hopeful. The book he had in hand looked old and worn, dog eared and marked almost like their beloved copy of the Celestial Record. The man opened it, holding it against his chest to show an illustration of a weird looking herb.

Its shape reminded Mikleo of a Dragon, the leafs curling like horns on each side of the small purplish flower at the center.

"If we can get some of that Dragoni Plant, I'm sure I can prepare a remedy. It's written right in that secret heirloom book, "He poked the book for emphasis, yet his smile faltered, and "The only problem is, as with Dragons, the Dragoni Plant is legendary. I've never seen one myself. Ah but… I had never encountered a Dragon either."

Mikleo squeezed Sorey's hand harder. "Even so we can't just wait here and do nothing while…"

"We'll go look for this Dragoni Plant!" Rose exclaimed putting a hand on her hip. "This commercial town has merchants visiting from the whole continent. I'm sure we'll find something!'

Dezel stood up in turn, nodding in approval. "We'll find something." He repeated.

"Mikleo?"

Sorey's voice sounded weak and hoarse, it cut through the hopeful mood that had been rising like a guillotine.

"I'm here." Mikleo responded, a relieved smile growing over his lips.

"Mikleo? …You sound so far away."

 Acting on impulse, Mikleo brought Sorey’s hand to his face and nuzzled against it, "I'm right here."

Sorey's finger twitched in Mikleo's hold but his body remained motionless, lifeless beside the steady rising and falling of his chest. Mikleo waited for his response, for another question, anything as long as it meant Sorey continued to talk to him.

"Keep talking to him." instructed the doctor like it wasn't something he wasn't about to do, "It might help us focus and make his mind stay with us a little longer."

"W-we… It's all right Sorey. You'll be alright." Mikleo wished with all his might that those words will come true.

"I'm sorry, Mikleo." Sorey responded.

Still holding Sorey’s hand in both his as he opened his mouth to talk more, Mikleo jumped when Rose’s hand landed on his shoulder. Looking over his shoulder, Mikleo was appeased by her smile and thumb up.

"Dezel and I'll go find that Dragoni Plant, you stay and keep him awake."

At least Mikleo managed to nod back at her as his mouth suddenly dried up. He was so grateful. He knew she would be true to her word that he could trust her and Dezel to do everything they could. There was something in her eyes that told Mikleo that she had grown to deeply care for Sorey. How could he reproach that to her? He should have known Sorey would enchant everyone they met.

And Dezel too with his gruff exterior and harsh manner had never let any of them down. With them, he could truly trust them in doing their best to save Sorey

The doctor's office door closed noisily behind Rose, its hinges creaking loudly in protestation. Yet, the sound was drowned by the town activity.  Many scents of food and spices reached her nose and Rose's stomach rumbled gently. There was nothing she could do about her hunger for now because Sorey's health was the priority over anything else.

Yet a pang of guilt rang inside Rose when she found out she couldn't focus her thoughts on him. The fight with Lafarga had shaken her more than she would like to admit. His words, the claim he had made… Dezel…she needed answers and she was ashamed that it couldn't wait for Sorey to be better before seeking them.

"Dezel…" she tried, not looking at the tall Seraph beside her.

"Not now, Rose. I'm not ready to talk about it."

She felt him shift against her, ready to disappear in the busy street but she had quick reflexes and grabbed his sleeve before he could escape from her again. It was obvious he intended to use the excuse they would be more efficient looking for the Dragoni Plant if they went separate ways but even if she silently agreed with him, she couldn't let go just yet.

He didn't even bother to look back at her but she knew he could feel her distress as she struggled to keep her voice from trembling.

"No, stop it, Dezel. I’ve had enough."

Feeling his arm stiffen under her hand, Rose brought him closer when it looked like he would listen.

"Now I know…I can understand why you keep pushing us away. But it doesn't mean I agree with it. I… what Lafarga said wasn't right. Even…Even if we are just a fragment of your life, isn't it better to have lived that fragment than not?"

As his face scrunched up, Dezel sighed in resignation but then promptly wrenched his arm out of Rose’s hand, "I don't care about what he said. It wasn't the Lafarga I knew." He said harshly, Rose stifled a gasp at his violent reaction. "He may have betrayed us but someone made sure he would. For me it just means I have one more person to avenge."

The only thing Rose could do was look away, listening yet again as Dezel persisted in his quest for revenge. She understood better than anyone. She too wanted to see those responsible for Brad's death suffer. He had been the only father she ever had, yet she was so young when it all happened, making the struggle to keep her family whole fall on her small shoulders. A family of outcasts that she wouldn't abandon for anything, and Dezel was part of it whether he wanted it or not and she couldn't allow him to drown in his need for vengeance.

"Now let's go look for that Dragoni Plant."

Only this time the words didn't go past her mouth before he remained her of the urgency of the situation. Rose could only look at Dezel’s back as he disappeared through the crowded street. She sighed, her shoulders sagging in acceptance. For now it was better to concentrate her efforts into finding that plant because one of the recently added members of her family was in danger.

Sorey and Mikleo as part of her family, Rose tasted the idea on her tongue and it brought a smile to her lips. Those nerds were fast in making their place in her heart. Rose had to admit she was touched by the fact that Sorey wished she didn't need to kill for a living yet did not chastise her for her choices. It means more than she would have thought that he cared for her and perhaps she had thought him a member of her group way before but it was after that discussion she noticed it.

"Chief! Rose!"

Twin voices rose as one man and one woman called her from up the street and she looked up as them, a smile immediately found her lips.

"Felice! Talfryn!" Rose called back, waving happily at them.

They navigated through the passerby to join her right outside the doctor's office. Both dressed in their merchant attire, it looked like they just had made the best deal of the day. They were twins, one girl and a boy with the same green eyes and same short orange hair under a white grey hat, and Rose had to admit it was nice seeing the same smile illuminating their face.

"You look like a mess." Talfryn said, his smile turning rueful.

His sister elbowed him, "You would look like that too if you fought a Dragon." Then she turned toward Rose, relief seeping through her voice when her boss let out a chuckle at her brother’s antics. "We were worried. You could have waited for us." She felt the need to remind Rose.

Shaking her head, Rose couldn't hide the wince when it awoke the pain in her neck and shoulder. She received her share of cuts and a bruise in her battle with Lafarga, the blood was mostly cleaned but she still could feel some in her hairline where she had been pushed into a stalactite. Her hand reached to distractedly touch the cut.

"It's fine. I had another Dragoon with me. Actually he was the one who took care of the Dragon." She confessed.

"What happened?" asked Talfryn, guessing by Rose’s attitude that something was weighing on her mind.

Rose’s hesitation didn't escape the two merchants slash spies who instinctively got closer to her shielding their conversation from prying ears.

"I…it's complicated. It concerns the Scattered Bones so I'll give you a full written report later. Everyone needs to be informed."

The twins exchanged a concerned glance but nodded in approval. Felice worried her lips a bit before she mustered the will to let it go and give Rose a change of topic.

"Well, Rosh and Eguille aren't that far away on the road. They'll be here right in time for the Tournament!"

Rose's eyes widened in realization because between the Dragon and Sorey’s poisoning, she completely forgot about the tournament. Mentally shaming herself for not even sparing a thought for the most important commercial event of the year, Rose straightened her back. The Sparrow Feathers worked through that event before, they could’ve made it again with or without her supervision.  Having half a mind to ask if they had prepared enough of the new mabo curry bun recipe she wanted to sell during the tournament, Rose righted her priorities, she knew if Eguille were to arrive soon he would take care of everything.

"I trust you to take care of that. Sorey got poisoned by the Dragon we have to find a cure first." She answered, somberly.

Talfryn wasn't here when the Sparrow Feathers feasted with Sorey and Mikleo back in Bale, but it was obvious that his sister, even perhaps the rest of Rose's guild told him about the event because he looked concerned while Felice brought her hand in front of her mouth.

"If there is anything we could do to help…" She said.

Actually, Rose had been considering using her guild’s resources to help Sorey since she saw the twins coming to her. "I need to find a Dragoni Plant." She informed them.

"Dragoni Plant?"

Talfryn hit his fist with his hand as an idea struck him, "The Tortuz shop!"

A grimace appeared on Rose’s face, she felt silly for not having thought of the Tortuz first. He's been stealing clients from them for the rarer goods, and it was hurting her pride a little to admit it but if it was a rare item, the Tortuz certainly knew about it.

 "You’re right, the Tortuz might have information. But it'll be expensive, I'm sure he'll even raise the prices." Rose sighed. She was willing to spend all the money necessary to save Sorey. It didn't mean she liked to enrich her rival in trades.

"Maybe if you give him your best smile he would consider giving you a discount?"

Continuing talking to Sorey was helping. It seemed he was slowly coming out of the fog clogging his mind. At first it was just a blink, then he squeezed Mikleo’s hand back and smiled before turning his head toward Mikleo. Now he was sitting with his back against the bed post chuckling quietly as Mikleo recounted adventures of their childhood.

"Gramps was furious after that. I remember that Shiron was sleeping on top of the roof and had his brow burned by a lightning bolt that came too close."

Sorey laughed louder, the sound like a bell chiming into Mikleo's ear, but it was short lived, blinking slowly, Sorey’s gaze fell back on their linked hands. He was looking at the appendages like he couldn't process what he was seeing.

"Sorey?" Mikleo leaned toward him in concern.

"I…it's like I can't feel your touch." Sorey frowned, "It's not cold, but it's not hot. I can tell you are holding my hand but…" he drawled.

Turning worried eyes toward the doctor, Mikleo saw him rise from his study. The man had his lips pulled tight in concern.

"This is bad. He is losing his senses faster than I anticipated."

He retrieved a needle from his tools and gently prickled Sorey’s skin with it. Not even a flinch moved Sorey's body and the doctor shook his head shoulders sagging in desperation.

"Let's hope your friends bring the Dragoni Plant soon."

Unable to control the trembling of his lips, Mikleo choked back a sob and looked back at Sorey only to find his face solemn.

"I'm sorry, Mikleo."

"You say that again… it's not your fault." He rightened his voice, breathing calmly through his nose

It was my fault. Mikleo’s thought was left hanging in the air between them. With his free hand he rubbed at his face. He had enough of this. It was much more than he could stand. Since the beginning of their travel either he or Sorey had been hurt or put through many difficulties. If he had known it would be like that he would have never let Sorey leave Elysia.

Sure, they were living part of their shared dream, and they had been designated to go look for Zenrus but even so the price was too high for Mikleo. Nothing was worth the risk of losing Sorey. He just…wasn't strong enough to do what the villagers needed him to.  Even obtaining the Dragoon strength was not enough.

Mikleo wanted to go back home. He wanted for Alisha to have never wandered upon Elysia grounds. He wanted to still be ignorant of the war and of the human's cruelty…

But, that was selfish. He knew Elysia and Sorey would have eventually been threatened and it was better to act now before it was too late. Mikleo knew that but those thoughts were pushed back by his anguish before the threat of Sorey's death.

Something prevented him from voicing his doubt to Sorey until then and now crushed by worry and despair clouding over all the wonderful things that happened in their travel Mikleo was about to let it all out, his pride be damned. He opened his mouth but Sorey talked before him.

"No…if I hadn't insisted so much to come with you… just because I wanted to see a real Dragon with my own eyes. But I… To be honest, when you told me to stay behind… I thought you had enough of me, that you wanted to get rid of me. That I was too weak and a (I or don’t need a word here) had become a liability. And it hurt."

A strangled sound was all that came out of Mikleo’s throat as his eyes widened. All this time they both shared the same fear. The truth came crashing into him with Sorey’s confession. They never had to talk about that between them, yet hearing it out loud showed Mikleo how he was mistaken, how all along Sorey was the one feeling like he was about to be left behind.

Now that he took the time to look back on things, Sorey was the one that needed to be rescued from the prison yet Mikleo was the one that obtained the Dragoon power, the one being called into a fate he couldn't grasp. His heart sank and with his free hand he clutched the fabric of his vest feeling the steady beat under his fingers.

Never once had he thought of the impact it could have had on Sorey, on him.

"You'll never be a liability." Mikleo smiled, squeezing Sorey's hand in reassurance. He knew Sorey couldn't feel the warmth but he could feel the pressure, "All this adventure would be meaningless without you beside me… we share the same dream." Mikleo had to breathe deeply, Sorey was looking at him with big green but empty eyes, "That's why we are going to find a cure. And then we'll go back to looking for Gramps and when we find him we'll go explore and visit as much of the world we want. You, I and everyone who wants to join us."

Because now he could truly dream that Sorey would stay beside him much longer, because even if Sorey eventually fell in love and found a family of his own, Mikleo knew he would always have a place in his heart. For now it was enough.

Sorey loved him and that was enough. Yet Mikleo had to push back the thought that he still wanted more, that he wanted another kind of love.

The door busted open, startling Mikleo out of his mind. The doctor nearly dropped the concoction he was preparing.

"We know where to find the Dragoni Plant!"

Rose's cheerfulness transmitted to all those present in the room and Mikleo found himself rising from Sorey's bedside as it seemed his body had regained all of its strength. Dezel stood tall beside Rose, arms crossed over his chest yet the small beginning of a smile gracing the corner of his lips told Mikleo that Rose was serious.

"Where?"

"The Tortuz said in the Shrine ruins located north of the Dragon’s poisoned forest. He said the last time saw Dragoni Plant it was growing near the back of the Shrine." Dezel informed.

The doctor looked between them and Sorey as the group was already making plans to depart for the Temple. He frowned as Sorey tried to rise from the bed, yet didn't stop him when he joined his friend with wobbly steps to share their happiness about the finding. " That would be the Lady of the Lake Shrine, right? It's a shame I can’t come with you. I would have wanted to explore the Shrine." Sorey said, Mikleo reaching his arm to steady him.

"We'll bring you a souvenir."

The doctor let out a heavy sigh. He loathed being the one to bring bad news, but sometimes that was part of his work.

"You won't make it before it's too late." He told them, bringing them down from their high.

Gently, he put his hand on Sorey's shoulder as blue and violet eyes glared daggers at him.

"It is a few hours walk and even if you depart this moment you won't be able to make it before the night. You'll need daylight to find the plant, that mean you won't be back before tomorrow at noon." He quickly exanimated Sorey's eyes, then took his wrist between his fingers to feel his pulse. " This young man will definitely lose consciousness before that."

"We'll need to bring him with us," Mikleo's arm closed around Sorey's, bringing him closer as a pang of pain seized his chest. "We could make him take the medicine as soon as we have the Dragoni Plant," The prospect of making Sorey travel in this state wasn't something he looked forward to but if it increased the chance of saving him before it was too late...

"Yes. I think he could handle the trip as long as you keep him conscious. I'll prepare the base for the medicine but I want to see him as soon as possible after you give it to him."

He had great hope it would work, but it didn't mean he wasn't worried for his patient. Dragon poisoning wasn't something to take lightly.

"We'll manage. Sorey is stronger than he looks."

It was an assertion that never came out of Dezel’s mouth for anyone else that Rose knew of. Mikleo too looked confident that they could take care of Sorey.

With the doctor’s recommendations in mind and the vial containing the base for the medicine, they left for the Shrine. The night fell quickly over the forest, just like the doctor told them it would and they had to stop and make a camp when it became obvious they won't make more progress in the dark. Rose let the two seraphs watch over Sorey as she rested, feeling guilty that she was allowed to sleep while her friend suffered from the poison.

The doctor told them Sorey could sleep, that it won't make the poison act faster, but Mikleo wasn't sure of that. When Sorey looked like keeping his eyes open was impossible, he let him rest beside him but kept watching the steady fall and rise of his chest all night long. Yet when Mikleo shook his shoulder to wake him up before the first light of day it became obvious Sorey had lost more than his sense of touch. They needed to hurry.

It had been a while since the sun had peaked from the treetops when the forest around them started to grow thinner. The road they were walking into looked like it was used a lot in the past.

"We are almost there, Sorey. Look, there are traces of a paved road."

Pointing his finger at the vestiges of cobblestone buried in the dirt road, Mikleo tried yet again to make Sorey respond.

Mikleo's small-talk had become more frequent as Sorey became more silent with the time passing. Even Rose admitted that she missed Sorey talking and inquiring about everything that piqued his interest. They no longer pretended that nothing was wrong with Sorey and it soured the group’s mood.

Slowly, Sorey's gaze followed Mikleo's finger, blinking slowly at the stone that was obviously man made.

"Ah…yes." he mumbled.

A weary sigh came out of Mikleo as he rubbed Sorey’s arm, hand steadying him as he prompted him to walk a little bit faster. At least, he tried.

 Rose and Dezel observed the scene from further up the path and Mikleo clenched his jaw. He didn't need their pity. He was fine. They were going to make Sorey come out of this.

The sudden lack of trees surprised the group and they looked around them. In awe, they stepped on the cobblestone path, watching their step carefully.

"Well, guess it wasn't called the Lady of the Lake Shrine for nothing."

Indeed, the whole structure of the ruin was lying atop of a lake of pure water. The path they were currently feeling under their foot was sided by the clear water. The stones were so polished and white that Mikleo wondered where they came from. They weren't limestone; otherwise erosion would have dissolved them long ago. He bit his lips when he thought about how Sorey would have the right answer.

Instead, he let go of Sorey's hand to walk toward the edge of the walkway, not resisting to his need to take a closer look at the lake below. A hopeful expression replaced his worried frown when he felt Sorey brush against him as he followed his move on his own, and Mikleo tasted sweet relief when Sorey opened his mouth to comment without being prompted too.

"There’s more ruins below the water…do you think it sank down or it was the lake that flooded the Shrine?"

Mikleo should have known that ruin exploration would give a rise to Sorey’s consciousness. They both loved ruin and exploration more than anything, but he would never think he would find a ruin as beautiful as these. How could he not find them the most beautiful when they woke Sorey up, even if just a bit?

"Let's see if we can find more clues about that." He chuckled.

Nodding, Sorey attached himself back to Mikleo's arm to right himself while frowning at his barely responding feet. Mikleo kept steadying him as they walked in the large walkway leading toward the Shrine’s main building.

The white structure was built on a small island right in the middle of the lake. The white remains of walls and many curving arches and structures were devoured by trees and vegetation yet the core of the building was standing tall and nearly intact after centuries of abandonment and Mikleo could feel Sorey's growing excitement where their skin touched. If his friend wasn't in such a dire condition, Mikleo would have loved making that exploration a competition between the both of them.

"It's truly a beautiful place. It feels so peaceful around here."

Rose was waiting for them in front of an archway, obviously a smaller entrance to the main building, the crumbled wall of a corridor shading her from the morning light. She stretched, breathing deeply to take a lungful of air before letting out a pleased exhale.

Vegetation was growing between the rest of the walls the one from the main building was mostly intact and Mikleo found himself searching for traces of paint, and anything that could help him guess the era of construction. His eyes fell on the Dragon bas-relief looming over them in its place over an open entrance.

Rose’s gaze followed his but she grimaced clearly disliking the design.

"What's that supposed to be?"

She tilted her head trying to see beyond the bit of stone that had fallen or eroded away over the years. There was a bit of wing left intact, no more head and some trace of the body, it was no wonder she questioned the aesthetic.

"That's a Dragon. A Seraph Dragon to be precise."

Mikleo had seen enough of the same representation after many explorations of the Mabinogio ruins to know what it was. With its distinguishable shape, wings of feather and long neck curling to allow a head to rest on a large body was the ancestor to all of the Seraphim in his sleeping position.

"Is it one of Maotelus?" Sorey asked.

Mikleo turned toward Sorey sharply, disbelief showing over his face. Sorey should have been able to tell, just like him. Violet eyes narrowing as he looked at Sorey more closely for an answer, Mikleo only met the dull green that had become Sorey's eyes. The heart pounding heavily in his chest was making it hard to concentrate but as he kept starting, Sorey smiled at him, sorrowfulness coating the gesture. Mikleo’s whole body shuddered when he finally realized what Sorey refused to tell.

"You are losing your sight! Since when?"

Sorey’s eyes remained loosely on Mikleo’s face, "It doesn't matter."

But it does, for Mikleo. Mouth opening to argue, he could only utter he choked sound because it fell on him that despite all their effort the poison was eating away the last of Sorey's remaining consciousness. And Sorey knew it.

His hand clutched Sorey's tightly. There was nothing else he could do to remember there was still hope.

"He is right. We have no time to dwell on things. We must hurry before it's too late."

Siding with Mikleo, Rose grabbed Sorey’s other arm and together they guided him inside the Shrine. Sorey and Dezel’s silence weighed heavily but Mikleo’s mouth was too dry to allow him to end it with promises that felt empty.

The main building had high vaulted ceilings and many stairways leading to outer gardens or courtyards. This didn't look like a site of prayer like Mikleo had expected but rather like a place to gather people and welcome them. There were ponds on the western and eastern side, flowing in by channels carved into the wall. It was obvious now that water was meant to flow all around the Shrine. Tall trees had drilled holes in the ceiling allowing natural light to make the pond to cast gleaming shadows on the walls, yet most of the ceiling remained intact, making the place and ideal shelter.

Frowning at the decrepit remain of a statue attached to a pillar, Mikleo was more concerned by the signboard hanging beside it than by the state of the statue. It didn't look totally out of place. Now that he looked more attentively, Mikleo found more of those rickety looking signboards everywhere in the Shrine. He couldn't make out the function of the bridge made of beams and planks above them that connected one side of the Shrine with the other while circling around the largest pillar but it was certain it wasn't constructed in the same era of the Shrine. This looked relatively new.

Someone had defiled those ruins and it displeased Mikleo greatly.

"Don't mess with Sir Lucas! Get out!" Rose read the sign out loud, playing with the cord hanging from her scabbard. "Well, now we surely know what to expect." She chuckled.

Dezel shrugged, unfazed by the threat. "We should look out for traps."

Mikleo couldn't help but to grin at that, he glanced knowingly at Sorey. This Shrine wasn't even a quarter of the size of the ruins they used to explore, any traps they could meet wouldn't compete with what they had already went through, it was nothing to be feared. Still he had to repress a tremor when it brought back memories about the Mabinogio traps… those were dangerous to say the least.

Rose led the way, choosing to go through the northern part of the Shrine first. They climbed a small stairway leading to a round terrace overlooking the lake, most of the Shrine’s lower levels were visible from there. Carved columns held the place above the water and here there was no sign of vegetation between the stones. There was a sundial on the wall, near another signboard. 'There's nothing in here, don't you get it!?' was written in huge bold letter, yet it prompted Rose to look more closely.

"Hah hah!" she cheered as the sundial moved under her fingers, "I can move the numbers around,"

Mikleo nodded. "I saw that once, if we move the right numbers on the right side it might reveal something."

"We are not here looking for treasure." Dezel rebuked them both before they could stray too much.

But Rose had already started moving the dial toward a random number, "3, because I like how it sound, 5 because I feel like it, 2-"

She was stopped in her tracks when the wall on the other side of the stair way suddenly fell down making the group jump as large carved stones splashed the otherwise calm waters bellow the terrace. Grumbling accusingly at Rose for her imprudence when he had warned her of traps, Dezel walked toward the newly formed hole. Inspecting it before Rose could.

As it became clear that Rose had inadvertently revealed a hidden door that fell apart after centuries of misuse, it appeared there was another stairway going further atop the Shrine behind it. Now preferring to follow Dezel’s lead, Mikleo filled Sorey's ears with comments about the architecture and theory about the Shrine’s function to worshiping the Seraphim. The presence of hidden doors and otherwise unattainable parts were for Mikleo, proof that there was sides of their religion that Seraphim wanted to keep hidden.

That or the Shrine had hosted treasures they wanted to keep away from brigand.

He tried to ignore the horror creeping inside him when Sorey stopped responding after a while. They were close to the Dragoni Plant, he couldn't be too late.

The stairway led them through more of the Shrine’s outside garden, it eventually ended with an arch and lead into a patio sided by two small ponds. On either side of these ponds, another set of stairs brought the group before another building. The terrace in front of it looked like it could have held an altar, Mikleo was certain.

They certainly didn't expect the entrance to be guarded by a man. Standing before them with his muscular arms crossed over his chest, he tried to appear as threatening as he could considering that he was a single man in front of a group of four. The scar running across his nose was a tale of battle fought yet Rose wasn't the least intimidated by the stifling glare he gave them.

"It's amazing you made it through the traps. But I cannot let you go any further."

Mikleo and Rose exchanged a concerned glance. Gently holding Sorey beside him, Mikleo nodded at Rose, signaling he was taking care of his best friend. Sorey wobbled slightly as Mikleo lead him behind his back. Sorey’s expression was concerned yet he didn't say anything as Mikleo whispered encouragements and reassurances to him.

"There…weren't any traps." Rose said, unsure.

The man’s mouth gaped open before he gathered himself and closed it. He rubbed at his nape taking the time to refasten his short ponytail. His eyes lingered on Sorey and Mikleo and it became obvious he was observing their unusual behavior. To any outsider’s eyes, it looked like they were completely ignoring him.

"It's of no importance, now draw your sword." He was a little disappointed that he wasn't inspiring fear in his opponent.

He reached into his scabbard before pointing an old looking iron sword at them. Dezel clicked his tongue.

"We are only here for the Dragoni Plan. We don't want to fight."

The man puffed his chest up, moving his sword with a flick of his wrist for emphasis, "Liar! I can recognize looters when I see them. You are here for the treasures!"

Rose cracked her knuckles. "It's quicker to beat him."

Shaking his head because he knew it was a waste of time to try talking Rose out of a fight when she was in a mood, Dezel still tried. "It's just a normal human." He reminded her.

"I know I'll only use my fists."

"You thieves you reveal your true selves! Be prepared! "

Stepping aside, Rose easily avoided the man’s charge. Moving reluctantly away from Sorey, Mikleo was about to prepare an arte when Dezel stopped him.

"Don't. She needs some venting."

Disapproval was visible on Mikleo’s face, yet he stepped back with Sorey in toe, giving Rose the entire place she needed to vent.

Mikleo knew she surely wasn't smiling like that when she fought against Lafarga For now she looked happy dodging and side stepping every time the man tried to do a thrust or slash with his sword.

 It was easy to tell that the man had some skill in sword fighting. His movements were careful and not wasting energy unnecessarily, but even if Rose was unarmed, she was fast and agile and she was playing with him. The way Dezel serenely sat, using a fallen column as a bench, was an indication that he had complete trust in Rose’s victory.

The man’s face scrunched as he started to be angered by Rose’s constant evasion and taunting. That was his mistake. His next tentative to cleave Rose’s retreat left a wide opening in his guard which Rose promptly used. She ducked at the man’s side and was behind him before he had time to understand what had happened.

It was Rose’s turn to strike.

One punch was enough to send the man down, loudly complaining and clutching his bloody nose in pain.

"Nooo… I must protect Lady Lailah."

The rhythm of Rose's breath was barely different from normal when she crouched beside him.

"Down after a single punch." She poked at the man’s side, disappointed.

"Oh no, Lucas!"

The sudden exclamation brought all eyes toward the woman standing over the threshold behind them.

Chapter Text

The last thing Sorey remembered was counting the steps as he climbed to the top levels of the Shrine, if just to focus on something. His eyes had given up on him at that time and Sorey could only distinguish the shapes and shadows surrounding him, his world reduced to muffled sounds and barely there sensations. He could think nothing of what had been happening, but he remembered the stray thought concerning Mikleo, that ultimately he would be the one to leave Mikleo behind. How much he was sorry.

Then the mist in his mind had taken over before he could understand and it was impossible to tell how much time passed since then.

Now he was starting to feel something hard and cold painfully digging between his shoulder blades. The scent of wet stone warmed by the sun assaulted his nostrils, taking a deep breath Sorey tried to blink in hope to clear his blurry vision. His eyelids and his limbs felt like lead, even his brain refused to work properly. It was only when something warm and wet fell near his lips that Sorey instinctively darted his tongue out to remove it. It was salty. Was someone …crying?

Concentrating hard, Sorey reached his hand up and managed to land his finger on something silky, it was hair. He knew this texture and that feel by heart. He started to stroke it, feeling his heart hammer in his chest in response.

Sorey’s mouth opened and closed but his vocal cords didn't cooperate, he still needed time. Tracing the shape of a face, he started to distinguish the contour, the colors of a fair skin framed by hair of a blue color so light that it looked almost silver. A weight settled on his chest and with Sorey’s brain being weird it was Rose's words that first echoed in his mind, what she told them the night before they fought the Dragon. Maybe it was being so close to dying that pushed Sorey to do what he was about to do but even so he refused to die with the regret of never having known the taste of Mikleo’s lips.

It was easy to push at the nape of the neck that his hand was resting on, the owner gave no resistance at all when he brought him closer. Sorey’s vision cleared a bit just in time for him to adjust his angle as he was about to kiss Mikleo's nose. It was just a press of lips yet Sorey felt like his unquenchable thirst was answered with fresh water soothing his core. He felt the other stiffen, perhaps he should have been worried by that but he was too far gone to care.

The kiss ended too quickly yet the sensation spread into Sorey’s whole body like a spark igniting his veins, lips tingling pleasantly his brain seemed to wake up as well.

It was more tempting to focus on the tingling left on his lips.

"Sorey!"

Various calls of his name sounded around him and he could distinguish more shapes than Mikleo's, the colors and lights assailing his troubled senses. Sorey closed his eyes tightly, a pain climbing into his sinuses until it stung in his temple, his ears ringing like he just stood under a bell at 12 o'clock.

"Wh-what happened?" he rasped eyes still closed.

"You are okay now. You made it."

The voice reassuring him was nothing familiar but the arms encircling his chest and crushing his ribs were. Sorey’s hand grasped at Mikleo's cape clutching the fabric as his vision cleared.

"I'm… not dead."

Somehow he was sitting down under the shade of a tree his shoulder pressed against Mikleo's chest as he helped him upright, uneven cobblestone under him but Sorey couldn't make his surroundings. He blinked in confusion as his eyes landed on the woman beside him. She was seated on her knees, long sleeved white and red dress shrouding her.

It was richly ornamented by gold and green stones. She had the longest hair Sorey had ever seen, held up into a high pony tail it still pooled around her and Sorey was sure that if she was standing it would reach past her knee. There was a gold and red headband adorning her incredible hair and it was silver hair ending into reddish tips, the mark of a Seraph.

Now that he could feel it, Sorey could tell she radiated the soothing and warm aura of a fire Seraph. She smiled gently at Sorey, her pretty face reassuring and comforting, her green eyes full of compassion.

"You are alive." She responded finally.

"There was no Dragoni Plant." Mikleo voice sounded muffled and when Sorey turned his attention to him he found Mikleo’s head buried against his shoulder, "I thought…we thought we had no hope left and the…you stopped breathing but… but Lailah saved you." He detangled himself from Sorey, cheeks flushed, indefinable expression crossing over his features.

Sorey glanced at him carefully, his mind processing what was said and what he could distinguish from Mikleo's face. His eyes deviated toward the others around him, confusion reigning. Rose’s smile was genuine. she hovered close to him but at enough distance to allow him some breathing room. Dezel was there too but he was frowning at another man that Sorey didn't know, a man that held a bloodied handkerchief to his nose.

"I…huh."

There was nothing Sorey could say or expect. He just couldn't make out how he survived the Dragon's poison. Eyes falling back on the woman who must be the Lailah Mikleo mentioned, he tried to voice his inquiry.

"Thank you."

Lailah smile grew then she shook her head. "You don't have to. Your friends were right to bring you here." she inclined her head in a thoughtful expression. "Although it seems it was a lucky coincidence."

"It seems the legend saying that destiny’s threads bring Dragoons together is true." Rose said gesturing to Lailah.

It added to Sorey’s confusion and he looked over Lailah. She was clutching a familiar looking stone in both her hands resting on her knees. From what he could distinguish, one was a ruby red, the same color as Lailah’s clothing but the other was a white silver stone polished and gleaming like a pearl. Sorey’s eyes were drawn toward it. It was reminiscent of the situation in the volcano but this time the voice beaconing him was kind and melodious, like a bird song.

Feeling Sorey shiver from the sensation, Mikleo tightened the one armed hold he had on him. "Can you get up?" he tried to coax.

Sorey nodded and Mikleo helped him up on unsteady feet. Connecting the dots about everything that transpired from the moment he had started to slip when the poison had started to act felt like crossing an angry torrent where the responses waited on the other side, yet Sorey started to get a clearer picture.

That woman, Lailah was holding Dragoon spirits in her hands and one of them was her's.

"Are you… the fire Dragoon?"

"I used to be." She stood up with Sorey and Mikleo, her finger gently passing over the smooth surface of the red stone, "Imagine my surprise when I found three other awakened Dragoons in my home and that one of them had nearly killed my friend."

There was no threat in her voice, but Sorey could feel some veiled animosity at the end of Lailah’s phrase. She certainly saved him, but it looked like she was somewhat angry at them.

"I merely punched his nose. He was attacking me with a sword!" Rose said, making wild gesture at the man beside her.

"You were disturbing Lailah’s resting place! And I attacked you with the blunt side of my sword." The man said.

He rose up in anger to face Rose but the threatening effect was altered by the fact that his voice was muffled by his handkerchief. Rose and the other man engaged in what seemed to be a staring contest, growling at each other.

"Well, you both had certainly good reason to fight. And you Rose couldn't be aware that the nose was Lucas's most sensitive part. What's done is done. "Lailah rebuked, standing between the two.

Hearing Dezel chuckle appeased Sorey, "How long was I unconscious." He asked Mikleo.

Mikleo was touching his lips absentmindedly and nearly jumped at Sorey’s question, "Too long." He responded, his hand moving away from his lips to hold his upper arm.

Lailah interrupted them, her face now inches from Sorey's. Despite the red heels she wore she was a bit shorter than Sorey and had to tilt her head up to stare into his eyes. She made an appreciative sound though her face seemed concerned.

"The White-Silver spirit power is to purify and heal. It should have purified you of the Dragon's poison. But to be honest I'm not sure I borrowed its power properly. I would advise you to see a doctor just to make sure there is no sequel."

"The White-Silver spirit? Was it the same spirit gifted to the Shepherd?"

It seemed like life was suddenly returning full force into Sorey's body, until now his eyes still sported the dullness induced by the Dragon poison but the green started to light up to the brightness that was Sorey. His brow had risen to his hairline in awe and wonder and his fingers were twitching, itching to touch the stone held protectively by Lailah.

"As its Prime Lord, The Red-eyed Dragoon’s duty is to assist the Shepherd and hold onto his legacy. I was to keep this Spirit from falling into the wrong hands the day I was chosen to be a Dragoon. "

She looked proud, holding the red stone against her heart.

"So, you met the last Shepherd? I always wanted to know what kind of man he was." Interest in the matter found Mikleo as well. He too got closer to Lailah.

Taking a step back, Lailah let out a strangled noise, "Oh… did you see that butterfly! Such colorful wings."

She started to look around, searching the sky for an invisible insect. Sorey and Mikleo shared a dubious glance.

"Looks like she can't tell you much about him." Dezel provided.

Seeing the boys’ disappointment, Lailah shoulder sagged. "I'm sorry."

"It's all right. We'll discover it sooner or later. "

Lailah smiled at them again, a gentle upward twist of her lips even though it didn't reach her eyes. She held the white stone up, opening her palm to allow the curious boys a closer look at it. "Maybe your venue here today is an omen that this spirit will soon wake up too."

"Lady Lailah-" Lucas tried to protest her gesture but it was mostly ignored.

As if responding to Lailah’s voice, the song in Sorey's soul intensified and before he could prevent himself his fingers were hovering above the stone resting on Lailah's palm. A collective gasp sounded when the stone started to shine. It shone brightly, more than the others spirits ever have. A pure silver fire of light encased them, forcing the closest from the stone to shield their eyes. The song of the spirit rang awakening the four others around it and soon red, dark, green and blue light joined the silver in a chorus.

Bewildered, Lailah let Sorey take the stone into his own hand, the shine falling back to a gleam under disbelieving green eyes.

"Oh my. That was rather enlightening."

Lailah couldn't conceal her enjoyment, her now free hand landing on her cheek. Still her smile fell a little when no one reacted to her joke.

They were disconcerted to say the least because they should have seen it coming. Since Mikleo’s awakening, Dragoons had been crossing their path. That Sorey would be one two seemed to be a matter of course.

But Sorey was human, and The White-Silver Dragoon Spirit recognized Sorey as his wielder. It was the first shepherd Dragoon spirit; it can only mean one thing. Sorey was to be the white Shepherd, the one whose fate was to guide the other Dragoons.

There was a new awareness flooding into Sorey as the spirit's power seemed to clear the last bits of poison clouding over his mind. All of Sorey's senses felt so sharp after having been muted for so long. But there was more to it. A surge of power so strong it was almost painful washed over Sorey. He squeezed his eyes closed, allowing it to pass through him. 

The wave changed course, merging into his brain and when his eyes blinked open a whole new world came into his range of perception. It was like a current under his feet, like he could see all the fine threads connecting every living thing, a colorful blending of life and mana flowing into the world.

Sorey thought that’s how the seraphim must see the world. It made him feel a bit closer to them. Taken by his discovery, his eyes deviated to Mikleo. He smiled, now seeing the world with Mikleo's eyes.

The vision started to fade as Sorey attuned to the surge of power. The world came back to normal, if not a lingering pulse settling in Sorey’s hand where his skin connected with the White Silver spirit.

 Taking advantage of Sorey's confused state, Lailah took back the stone from his and her expression was now one of deep concern.

"I can't let you accept the Dragon gift without you aware of what it implies." She was grave, seriousness taking over her earlier playfulness, "The fate of a Shepherd is a hard one. Those who won't try to use you will treat you like a monster. You would be granted power far beyond human comprehension. "

"I…"

Sorey seemed to hesitate, his gaze searching his friends eyes, the loss of the stone leaving a strange emptiness behind. First he searched Rose’s eyes while she was playing with the bead adorning her hair. Sorey remembered her saying something similar to Mikleo; that she wouldn't force him into something he didn't want to do. Then he looked back to Mikleo standing beside him, determined violet eyes set on Sorey's. Trust. That was the thing Sorey could read into them.

"My dream is to explore the entire world, all the ruins so I can find clues of a past where Seraphim and Humans lived together in harmony. I think having that spirit blessing could help me. And that's why I would accept to be the Shepherd, to see such a world again."

The spirit made him understand the seraphim like he never would have. Their perception and understanding of the world was so different from what he thought he knew. But it gave him hope, a strong hope his dream could come true.

A hand landed on his shoulder giving a gentle squeeze. "I hope you know what you are doing."

Lailah allowed Sorey to take back the stone, "You are its rightful owner, Shepherd Sorey."

"Wait a minute. Am I not a Shepherd too? No one guided me!" Rose interjected.

Lailah looked really surprised at that, she walked toward Rose to see her spirit more closely. "I see… you have a very high resonance. Dragoon can have more than one Shepherd! With my guidance you both could use the full extent of your powers."

"There’s more than turning into a Dragoon?"

Confusion reigned in Rose, she thought she knew all she needed to make her spirit work and there came Lailah offering more than what she had once learned too briefly when Brad formed her.

"I can teach you the Armatus and how so much more." Lailah clasped her hand in front of herself, she seemed happy to be sharing her knowledge.

"Armatus?"

"The technique was perfected since the Dragoon war, now it's as simple as fusing a sword." She tried to remain serious but everyone could see the mirth in her eyes.

"Oh! Oh brilliant, I get that one! You mean using a sword but the Armatus is a fusion with a Seraph!" Lucas laughed before his broken nose turned it into a pained groan.

Perplexity was attached to Sorey's expression but then he remembered his many readings on the Shepherd and how his power could merge with that of the other Dragoon. He searched Mikleo’s eyes and saw when realization found his friend.

"You mean… Sorey and Rose could use any element. Like we lend them our armor and spirits?" He was grasping his chin in thought like the concept was difficult to picture.

"Actually, it's more like it turns us Seraphim into a weapon of our element but yes you could say it like that." Lailah responded.

" It… sounds weird." Dezel said.

"It does tickle a bit but you get used to it. I will show you next time you get into a fight with a Dragon. Which reminds me… I have something for you Sorey."

Brushing her long hair back Lailah went on the dais behind them and gestured with her hand for them to follow her inside the building that Lucas had been guarding so fervently. She had a light bounce to her step as she couldn't quite hide her excitement. Rose shrugged and followed, Dezel close behind. Sorey thought he heard Lucas grumble something about thief but he was too far away to be properly heard. He was hesitating.

"Do you think… I mean Gramps was the guardian of the Violet Dragoon Spirit, right? Do you think accepting the Dragoon power could help us in finding him, that we would be drawn together eventually? "

Lips pulled taught, Mikleo didn't hesitate when he answered. "I don't really believe in fate. I prefer to believe we can write our own destiny."

Taken aback by the harshness in his tone Sorey could only frown. Concern for Mikleo made him stay behind a bit. For a reason he couldn't grasp, something was making Mikleo upset. He rarely talked so bitterly to Sorey, and usually it meant something was heavily weighing on his mind.

To be fair, Sorey just came back from the brink of death so maybe that explained why Mikleo was a bit skittish.

As if he sensed Sorey’s change of mood, Mikleo turned back toward him, holding his hand in the air, "We'll find him. I promise."

Whatever was plaguing Mikleo was forgotten for now, a smile tugging on Sorey's lips as he lifted his own arm to bump their wrists in their handshake. The confidence in Mikleo’s words inspired Sorey who nodded his approval, knowing that together they will find Gramps without failing.

"Sorey, we are waiting for you!" Rose’s voice resonated from inside, an indication about the room size.

Mikleo shook his head at Sorey’s sheepish expression. He made the others wait too long and curiosity won over worry, Sorey’s steps lightened and he entered the building. Mikleo followed closely behind, but Sorey could tell he was purposely avoiding getting too close. Perhaps Mikleo was upset because of him after all.

"Come on! Look at that!"

Again, Rose’s voice urged him out of his thought. Sorey had to concede that was neither the moment nor the place to have a crisis with Mikleo. With a last glance to his friend he stepped inside, mentally noting that this was to be addressed later.

They entered a room with a cathedral ceiling, well preserved compared with the rest of the shrine. Day light came inside from many small windows on the entrance wall. Sorey noticed they were practically invisible from the other side of the wall. The room itself was filled with water. Only a cobblestone walkway was immerged and it was lined with the tallest statues of Dragon Sorey had ever seen.

There were seven of them circling around the room. Some broken beyond repair, stones from fallen wings jutting out from the shallow waters. They were standing in a crouched position inviting rather than warning the visitors. Sorey had to remember to close his mouth before drool came out but he felt less ashamed because he was aware of Mikleo excitement behind him. It comforted him that he wasn't alone in that.

"I can believe how many amazing things we kept finding."

"Yeah, it’s incredible."

Lailah was waiting for them at the end of the way. Her hand was resting on a small altar. A ray of sunlight hit the altar just in the center and when Sorey looked up he could see it was perfectly aligned with the largest of the dragon statues. The Dragon’s mouth was oriented toward the altar, like it was its watchful guardian.

"Those are mementos of the Shepherd. I thought you would like having them."

On the altar was a small chest, all wood and iron rivets. Sorey’s experience in the matter told him it was fairly recent compared to the rest of the Shrine. Lucas was particularly agitated beside Lailah, glaring at Sorey as he was approaching the altar. It's true that he had been protecting that treasure and Lailah until now just to have her offer this to a complete stranger. Sorey felt compassionate with that and wanted to refuse Lailah’s gifts.

Seeing his hesitation, Mikleo got in front of him and didn't wait to be prompted to open the chest. It gave a low creaking sound, making Sorey flinch.

Mikleo pulled out a white fingerless glove, the back of the hand bearing a familiar symbol. Its design consisted of crossed lines imitating a Dragon’s horned head. A 'v' like shape in an incomplete circle, a small downturned crescent moon closing it. The motif was a bright gold embroidery, the symbol of the Shepherd. A bracelet made of orange beads was attached to it as well as two feathers looking very much like the ones Sorey used to make his earrings. He wanted to laugh at how it seemed it was made to match his taste.

"Hey, it's neat. I feel jealous." Rose said lightheartedly.

She tried to pry the glove away from Mikleo's hand, "It won't suit you, not your color." Mikleo answered holding his prize away.

Dezel pulled away something else, a white piece of cloth that he held in front of him. It looked like a cape or a mantle. It was as white as the glove but the motifs were black lines and patterns. A gust of wind made it flap in Dezel’s hand. The fabric looked heavy and sturdy. Dezel scrunched his nose a bit in distaste, and Sorey couldn't tell what he disliked in the garment.

Really, as a kid he and Mikleo would disguise into Shepherd and Dragoon but their imitations were pale in comparison with the cloth Dezel was holding. It was the real thing. The mantle transmitted from Shepherd to Shepherd since the Dragoon's age. Somehow, with the power of the Silver White spirit being fresh in him, Sorey felt like he didn't deserve the honor.

"The Shepherd mantle… I can't possibly-"

"With some adjustment I’m sure it would look good on you." Lailah interrupted him before he could refuse. She started clapping her hands together, "Today we welcome the newly appointed shepherd Sorey!"

Laughter fallowed her declaration.

"I know the perfect tailor back in Lohan." Rose supporting Lailah’s comment about the mantle needing adjustments definitely cut any chance for Sorey to retreat out of this. "Though, with the Heroes' Competition just starting he must be drowning in work. We may have to wait a little for it to be ready."

Sorey eyes widened at Rose’s words, his fists clenching in anticipation. He could practically feel himself vibrate with the prospect of what Rose mentioned.

"The Heroes' Competition." Sorey loudly echoed.

Mikleo was quick to react, realization settling in his feature after Sorey's outburst. He shook his head and came forward standing his ground in front of Sorey.

"No, absolutely not. You can't participate."

All eyes turned toward Sorey who seemed disappointed but still adamant.

"We came just in time to take part in a yearly event. You bet I'll participate!"

"It's too dangerous! They use real weapons in that tournament. It's a gathering of warriors from all around the country do you really think you can stand a chance?" Mikleo’s voice was rising in volume he was standing his ground firmly in this argument.

"Do you remember when Gramps won the tournament three consecutive years? I always wanted to go. He said he would make us run into the tournament when we are old enough. Don't you think we are?"

"He told you that to make you shut up!"

Lailah’s hand covered her mouth to stifle her gasp because she too could tell Mikleo went too far. Rose and Dezel were staring at him with apprehension, and judging by the muscle working on Rose’s jaw, she hesitated to intervene. Sorey’s mouth was hanging slightly open. Saddened by Mikleo’s words he turned his eyes away.

"We should go back to Lohan before deciding anything." He started to go back to the Shrine gardens.

"Sorey wait…I didn't mean-"

Sorey eyes slowly went from the hand grabbing his shoulder and preventing him to walk away to Mikleo’s bitten lips before looking back into Mikleo’s eyes. The violet of Mikleo's eyes was shining with a tumult of indefinable emotions; at least Sorey could tell he was regretting his words.

"Listen… the Dragon's poison nearly killed you…I-I'm just worried for you."

Sensing it was time for her to give the final point to the argument, Rose stepped up, "He is right. That tournament is no small matter so maybe it would be wiser to ask for the doctor’s approval before rushing in."

The fact wasn't so pleasing to Sorey, but Rose siding with Mikleo meant he should control his excitement a bit. Dezel lifted his head and Sorey could only guess that he was rolling his unseeing eyes.

"You could still watch it." Dezel deadpanned.

Sorey scratched his nape awkwardly, "Yeah, maybe I got a bit exited."

"We could all go together!" Lailah said a large smile spreading on her lips. "What do you say Lucas? You can't stay here all alone."

Lucas’s shoulder sagged. It's been some minutes since his nose had stopped bleeding yet his face drained of color, "It's true, then. You are leaving?"

The rest of the group was already leaving the treasure room when Lailah grabbed his arm discreetly. Lucas almost froze at the rare contact.

"That's something we could discuss on our way to Lohan."

The doctor didn't approve of Sorey participating in the tournament.

 It had something to do with his body needing lots of rest and his reflexes being a little off after the ordeal. The verdict greatly displeased him, even the news that his recovery was miraculous and that he was completely free of poison couldn't rejoice him. He had been grumpy all day, sighing a lot and making even Rose's patience run thin.

She had promptly taken his measurement, inviting Lailah to go with her when she announced going to the tailor to have the Shepherd mantle fit for Sorey, but when Dezel lingered behind intending to stay with the boys, Rose had dragged him outside pretexting he was needed too. It was somewhat telling that she had ulterior motives in leaving Sorey and Mikleo alone for some time.

The group had promised to meet in the afternoon to go watch the tournament in the Arena. The corner of Sorey’s lips had lifted at the notion, indicating that it was only a question of time before he would get over not participating.

"Come on Sorey. We could still come back next year. And we'll go with Gramps too."

Uncrossing his arms from his chest Sorey let out a laughed sigh, "He would beat us in no time if they let him into the tournament."

Though he was disappointed being denied his participation, Sorey could see the logic behind his friend's protectiveness but when Mikleo sat beside him on the bed Sorey didn't miss the unusual distance he put between them. Perhaps it was wrong to let his disappointment weigh on Mikleo’s mood.

Taking a deep breath, Sorey pushed his frustration away for Mikleo's sake, "We still have some time before we have to meet with the others. What do you say we visit the town a bit?"

His offer made Mikleo smile, just the reaction he needed.

Lohan was bustling with merchants and people. The main street was littered with stalls and carpet used as a makeshift display. There were lots of different merchandise from foods to spice and strange weapons from the other side of the world.

To Sorey’s pleasure they even found someone selling antiques, and before Sorey pointed out they were mostly fakes the merchant had been nice enough. What bothered Sorey though was the fact that Mikleo had been silent most of the time, staring dreamily in the distance when he thought Sorey was distracted.

"Look, Mikleo the color is a perfect match with your eyes!"

Sorey held the amethyst necklace up, showing it to Mikleo with the merchant smiling approvingly beside him. It was a bit crude in design but that's exactly what made the necklace perfect for Mikleo. His natural beauty won't be denatured by a tacky jewelry; instead this necklace would serve to enhance it.

Yet again, Mikleo was spacing, touching his lips distantly he obviously didn't hear Sorey over the buzzing of the crowd. With an apology, Sorey gave the necklace back to a frowning merchant before taking hold of Mikleo's lower arm and yanking him through the people.

"Sorey? Wait, where are you going?"

Feeling Mikleo’s protestation ringing in his ears, Sorey told himself that not responding to them would serve as a sort of punishment for Mikleo. There was something hanging between them. Usually Mikleo didn't wait this long to talk with him about the thing bothering him. It was a thing they never needed to talk about that the other was here if one of them needed an ear or a shoulder. Mikleo was taking too long.

Leading them into a narrow alley between two larger shops, Sorey looked on each end to make sure they would have some privacy. Holding Mikleo calmly against a wall, he avoided looking directly at him when he searched for his words.

"You have been acting weirdly since we got back from the Shrine." He could see Mikleo taking his lower lips between his teeth and continued before he could stop this conversation, "I know you are upset about something… and if it was because of what happened in the Shrine because of me, I want to know what I could to do to make it better."

Mikleo let out a low sound in his throat and Sorey flinched because he knew he had put his finger on something. He allowed Mikleo to shy away from him, he watched silently as Mikleo covered his face with his hand. What Sorey couldn't understand was why Mikleo’s ears were so red. Had he, in his awkwardness made Mikleo angry somehow?

"You kissed me."

Though muffled, the words were clear and Sorey heard every syllable. Realization took hold of Mikleo’s features and it became obvious he had blurted this without thinking about it. Sorey’s jaw felt slack suddenly.

"Oh god, I thought I was dreaming again…I didn't mean to-" something was stinging his eyes, Mikleo’s reaction was something Sorey had always wanted to avoid, the perspective of a rejection was making him panic… that's exactly why he had refrained from acting on his feeling for so long. "I didn't mean to upset you like that."

Sorey could feel the heat of a flush spreading on his on his cheeks, yet his brows scrunched at the agony he was feeling inside. His heart was hammering in his chest, adding to his embarrassment because with his luck Mikleo could hear it. There was nothing he could think to do or say to make the things better. Not when a strong part of him was yelling inside his head that it was better that Mikleo knew how he truly felt… even if it meant losing him.

"You dreamt about kissing me?"

It was nearly impossible to tell the extent of Sorey’s embarrassment neither was it possible to determine Mikleo's expression. He had an air of deep seriousness. Violet eyes nearly digging holes into Sorey's skull, Mikleo waited for Sorey's answer.

"Ye-yeah. Sometimes."

Sorey’s eyes couldn't look up from the ground, the grim and dirt in the unpaved alley the safest thing he could look at right now.

"I'm not upset." Mikleo’s voice was steady confident. "I… I was worried about you. I nearly lost you this time and-"

But Sorey didn't hear anything after the few first word. "You’re not upset?" he repeated feeling dumb all of sudden.

It was like a dam breaking after days and days of heavy rain, the hope he heard in Sorey’s voice being the last drop. Tears started to fall uncontrollably onto Mikleo’s face. He had held himself strong until now, not letting the events affect him. Yet having nearly lost Sorey was too much weight, too much unsaid things pending between them.

"I liked it." Mikleo’s voice broke under the strain. "I was…I always wanted to know how it would feel to kiss you…but… but it's wrong. It's…we are both-"

"Can I kiss you again?"

Sorey's thumb caressing Mikleo's cheekbone seemed to ground Mikleo. His tears became a quiet sobbing. He couldn't find words to respond to Sorey. But Sorey was determined to show him there was nothing wrong between them.

To prove himself, he pressed his warm lips against Mikleo's humid ones, offering a chaste pressure of lips to tell him that it couldn't be wrong, not when it felt so right.

Sorey felt Mikleo's breath catching in his throat when he reached his hand to tread his fingers through Mikleo’s fine hair at his nape. The molding of Mikleo's lips against his told him that Mikleo had started to see his point. Feather like lashes brushed against his cheek when Mikleo closed his eyes and Sorey couldn't help but to let out a soft noise at the sensation.

It was a shame it prompted Mikleo to push away from him, his breath slightly uneven as he looked alarmingly at Sorey.

"No," he shook his head, "We can't. You don't…you deserve the world. You deserve to share this with another human, to form a family, to have children," Sorey held him against his chest whispering words of comfort and sweet nothings in his ear. Mikleo could barely stand it shivering in his hold, "I can't take that away from you-I-"

Sorey's next caress was as kind as a butterfly wing, removing tears away with a swipe of his thumb. "You are all the family I would ever want. You are everything I need, Mikleo."

Not allowing Mikleo to dwell further in his darkest thought, Sorey brought their lips together again and Mikleo allowed it, breathing through his nose he finally relaxed into Sorey arms.

It was sweet, warm and a bit desperate with their teeth clanking more than once because of inexperience and their noses bumping once or twice, yet it held everything Sorey couldn't tell after years of hiding the feeling. Now he could only guess how much Mikleo had thought about this moment too. How much Mikleo had wanted this. Sorey stopped being in denial and it swept his heart like a tidal wave, like Mikleo’s power went out of control.

They had harbored mutual feelings all this time. It felt a bit stupid to have thought Mikleo wouldn't want him.

When they finally parted to breath after a third and even a fourth kiss, Mikleo’s strength completely left him, sending him against Sorey's chest for support. Sorey wasn't complaining, though his knees felt jittery too.

"You cheesy romantic, you may say that now but-"

Sorey shook his head not letting Mikleo finish his thought, "Wasn't there someone that said better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all? I said it's worth it, loving you."

He means it. It was like those words had been pushed in his mind, just what he needed to respond to Mikleo worries. Though he had never allowed himself to hope this moment would happen, it was real. Sorey’s arm wound around Mikleo’s back his hand carding through Mikleo as he felt the other letting himself go against his shoulder. A stifled sound rose from Mikleo. It was like a cross between a sob and a laugh.

"You hopeless romantic."

"You bet I am."

They could make this work Sorey was certain.

Chapter Text

The rest of the morning passed like a blur for Mikleo, his chest so full it threatened to overflow. The reality of what happened between him and Sorey had yet to properly establish itself in his minds, the fresh memory of the touch of Sorey's lips feeling like a realistic dream. As they neared the rendezvous point in front of the arena though, waiting for the others, Mikleo couldn't mistake the giddy smile Sorey was still sporting for anything else but proof it had happened.

Mikleo felt happiness swell inside him, seeing that smile kept sending butterflies fluttering in his stomach. Yet, Mikleo’s brain was treacherous and as time passed and his emotions began to settle, he started to notice other things.

Like the way Sorey was obviously refraining to touch him, their hands barely brushing as they walked side by side, like the way he kept avoiding the subject, diverting Mikleo’s attention with other small matters. Not that Mikleo really wanted to expand the subject just yet.

 It just felt like Sorey was giving a chance for Mikleo to back away from this; to call this a mistake and he couldn't stand it. Yet he welcomed the respite, Sorey's kissing and words having left his mind in quite a jumble, turning his world upside down and reshaping it.

Or maybe Sorey needed time for himself as well, to ponder on his action… because he had acted on impulse, the first kiss happening because he had been so close to knocking at Death’s door. Maybe he did regret changing the nature of their relationship after all.

With his throat constricting at the thought, Mikleo’s eyes avoided looking at Sorey beside him, focusing on the colorful banner lining the street and announcing the festival in loud colors and bold letters. The banners were more present flooding the top part of the streets as they neared the arena, the tall wall of the structure already obscuring them.

A guard stood on a high platform overlooking the crowd that had formed in front of the gate and Mikleo could hear echoes of the man’s voice over the noise as he regulated the circulation. It took only a few minutes for the crowd to enter, calmly and steadily walking into the gate and leaving the street nearly void of people. Impressed by their numbers Mikleo vaguely wondered if there would be any place left for them if the rest of the group didn't show up soon.

The street was nearly silent after that while they stopped before a merchant's booth selling colorful spices presented in large jars, just where Rose told them she would meet them. On the other side of the street another merchant was selling young poultry and rabbits. A weird volatile rattling in the cage right in front of them had Mikleo raising his brow in interrogation.

The sound it made was unlike any other birds, if not kind of funny. It was a sort of gargle or a gobble, Mikleo couldn't really put a word to it.  It had mostly black and white fluffy looking feathers but its wings were too short for it to properly fly plus it looked too round and fat for that. Its neck was naked, blue sagging but soft looking skin blending into red beside the beak with that additional weird red expanse of skin hanging from the upper part of the beak. Mikleo knew that he had seen some description of it in a book but his thoughts were somewhere else, and even after all of his effort to concentrate on remembering that bird name and focus on something else but the young man beside him, his gaze eventually came back to Sorey.

And the idiot was still smiling, looking back at him.

Bringing his hand up to cover his mouth, Mikleo could feel heat spreading on his cheeks once again damning the fair complexion that made his embarrassment so easily displayed. When Sorey came closer to him, shoulder nearly pressing into Mikleo's yet still giving him some space, he allowed it, welcoming the warmth coming from being this close to Sorey's body.

Mikleo's heart stopped when Sorey’s smile eventually faltered, doubt clouding the green of his eyes. Sorey's mouth opened and Mikleo bit his lips, dreading the words that would come out.

"Did you really think I would choose someone else, just because you can't give me children?"

Surely Mikleo hadn't expected that that would be the first question coming out of Sorey’s mouth. Eyes wide in disbelief, Mikleo felt his blush spread even further. Too quickly for it to be an innocent gesture, he turned his gaze away from Sorey, frowning had his eyes landing on the weird bird again.

"I-" he started, but it was all too fresh, the press of Sorey lips against his still lingering, Mikleo refused to think back about that, about why he had been ready to give up on Sorey. Why he had been stupid enough to refuse something they both wanted so much.

He took a deep breath, closed his eyes as his mind conjured images of when he had started to lose hope. "After Alisha came and you both got taken away, I… that’s when I started to realize how human you truly are. And how different-"

He stopped himself before voicing it when he felt Sorey shift beside him, ready to interrupt him but Mikleo gave him a look that said everything he needed, that he needed some seconds to gather his thought and couldn't stand an interruption.

Their differences hadn't stopped weighing on Mikleo since they left Elysia, his realization growing with each passing day even as they traveled together, that this was the human world and Sorey belonged in it. Now it almost felt stupid to Mikleo. Sorey had grown up raised by Seraphs, just like him and he had never been treated differently by them, he was Elysian before he was human. 

That thought actually brought a smile back to Mikleo’s lips, thinking that even though Sorey’s wander lust couldn't be quenched just yet, he had always included Mikleo in his plan for future travels, and he had always planned to come back home, to Elysia, to him.

Breathing deep, Mikleo continued, "But even like this… even if you grow old and I stay as I am for many decades and centuries to come, even if I outlive you," The end of his phrase was nearly lost in a whisper but then Mikleo raised his head, knowing Sorey could read the sincerity of his feelings in his gaze," I know now that I want nothing more than to spend those years with you. I want this Sorey. I want to be loved by you. I want to love you."

Averting his eyes, he still had to be sure Sorey understood right, that there were no more misunderstandings between them.

" Romantically, I mean."

He was surprised when Sorey took his hand, intertwining their fingers as Mikleo’s heart stopped beating in his chest. Yet he knew he shouldn't had been worried, not with the way Sorey was looking at him right now, like Mikleo was something worthy of worship, like he was his world, his everything… his one and only.

Sorey's lips on his fingers made Mikleo shudder, his breath catching as Sorey smiled fondly, "You just made me the happiest man on earth, Mikleo

They were inching closer by the second, eyes never straying from each other and the fact that they were right in the middle of a busy street a mere impression at to back of Mikleo's mind. It was unsettling, the way that Sorey could reduce him to this state with only a few words and gentle touch but Mikleo allowed it. He allowed that gentle wave to sweep him away, taking the movement and letting it fill his lungs, becoming the air he needed to survive.

"And we can still adopt."

Indeed, Mikleo was the happiest Seraph on earth too but he had half in mind to deck Sorey on the head right now. Still his eyes slowly closed in bliss, Sorey's breath caressing his lips as they neared each other.

A loud clearing of throat forced them out of their own world, Mikleo blinking as Sorey turned away from him.

The rest of the group was standing a few feet away from them, Rose standing in front with a raised brow and a hand on her hip. She made a hand gesture toward a grumbling Dezel beside her and Mikleo could nearly see him roll his eyes behind his curtain of hair. Lailah had her hand covering her mouth, but her eyes were crinkled in way that gave hint of how wide her smile was. At least Lucas had the decency to avert his eyes.

It was so crushingly embarrassing that Mikleo had trouble making his brain work properly and that did nothing but to add to his embarrassment. He knew he was left gaping like a fish, trying to form words, excuses, anything. At the same time, he wanted them to see, he wanted for all to witness that Sorey was his. Still there was more proper ways to announce the start of a relationship.

Sorey wasn't faring better beside him, scratching his nape and letting out that awkward laugh he emitted when he was mortified.

However, Rose was indulgent, never the one to take pleasure on others suffering, even if it was hilarious. She clapped her hands together, bringing the attention away from the loving couple. "Well it's about time."

Mikleo nearly face palmed, and there he had thought for a second that she would save them, distracting the others toward another subject. He should have known better. 

She had silently witnessed the first time Sorey kissed him when coming back from the dead, she saw Mikleo’s pain when Sorey acted like nothing had happened obviously having forgotten what he just did to his friend. She had acted to give the both of them some alone time, giving them the time to work this out.

Now he could see that Rose had planned and acted for them to reconcile and move forward in their relationship and Mikleo wasn't sure if he should thank her or drench her for this.

Not containing herself anymore, Lailah stepped in front of them, "You make such a lovely couple." Realizing that she was making a show of herself she backed away in a flurry of her dress, "I wish I was that young again."

Dezel's foot was tapping on the ground, yet a hint of a smile showed on the corner of his lips as he tipped his hat down. "Well now before our lovebirds start nesting, can we just go in the arena before missing the tournament?"

Rose turned toward him sharply, "You know I booked seats yesterday, right? We won't-"

Dezel put his gloved finger over Rose’s mouth before discreetly gesturing with this chin at Sorey and Mikleo. They were currently facing away from each other, Mikleo’s face so red that he might as well be turning into a fire Seraph and Sorey was fumbling with his earing disturbing the feather to hard that he was nearly breaking the fragile looking item.

"Stop teasing." He whispered to her.

Rose sighed, having no choice but to concede to Dezel's point of view.

 Dezel was the true savior.

It was easy to tell that Sorey was still upset at not being allowed to participate with the way he looked at some passing contestant in their full gear and armor glory, his lips jutting out and hand absentmindedly touching the hilt of his ceremonial sword.

Rose was busy checking them in, most of the seats in the arena now occupied like Mikleo had suspected but she still noticed Sorey’s lack of subtlety with his disappointment.

"Really? I can't figure out why you are so adamant on fighting in this. This is nothing but a show of muscles without brain, with nothing but sweaty and gross men weaving weapons at each other. Well maybe I would actually enjoy this if some more fine women would participate. They are allowed, yes but as you can see, there aren't any girls' names in the registered contestants." She turned toward Sorey as she hinted with a gesture that the suspected foul play in the registrations. She shrugged, "Plus, do you really need to prove your strength that much?" She accused.

The disappointment on Sorey’s face was replaced by offence at Rose's accusation, green eyes wide. "The hero competition is a sport that existed for hundreds of years! It's said to have been created by the King Rohan whose brother kept taunting the other kingdom sending letters telling them he couldn't be defeated by cowards such as them and inciting them to come and fight him. The situation nearly escalating to war King Rohan imagined a tournament where warriors, men and women from all over the world could prove their skill and shooting his brother's pride in the process. I really can't believe they are discouraging women participants because some famous winners had been women. And it's not a matter of wanting to prove my worth; rather it's an honor to participate in such an ancient sport. I-"

"I should have guessed it was a nerd thing." Rose told him before he would lose her completely.

Mikleo elbowed Sorey's ribs, "That's Sorey we are talking about."

"Hey!" Sorey responded with a jab, fingers trying to pass by Mikleo's corset.

"Guys! Guys!" A loud call from further inside the arena stopped Mikleo from retaliating after having caught Sorey's hand.

Turning to acknowledge the calls, Mikleo heard Dezel clucking his tongue as Zaveid made his way from between a group of fighters, waving at them. As he was completely agreeing with Dezel, Sorey was the one to happily wave back at him, acknowledging the other wind Seraph’s presence.

"Zaveid !" Sorey called over the crowd.

Grabbing Sorey’s waving hand in his Mikleo promptly started to lead him away, "Maybe we should go rejoin our seats." He invited, turning away from an approaching Zaveid.

Mikleo must have had underestimated Zaveid's speed because he barely had the time to take a step before his eyes landed on the scarcely clad Seraph as he leaned his taller frame toward Lailah.

"If I had known such a lovely lady was accompanying you, I would have said hi sooner." His nearly crooned, thumbs looping in his belt.

Lucas stepped up, his shoulder colliding with Zaveid, "Mind your manners in front of a Lady!" He said none too gently.

Like they had that kind of conversation a million times before, Lailah defused Lucas with a gentle touch on his shoulder, even so Mikleo couldn't miss the flame he saw in her light green eyes.

"It's fine Lucas. I'm sure Zaveid is no threat to me." She said.

Mikleo swore there was some bite in those words and Zaveid must have heard it because he slightly backed away from Lailah a huge smile gracing his lips as he clapped Lucas’s shoulder.

 "Well, men like us should always step up to protect a lady in distress, I feel you man." He asserted as Lucas sputtered, his tanned skin taking red hues.

"What is your business here?" Dezel asked as he crossed his arms over his chest.

"I'm competing in the tournament, obviously."

Surprise and astonishment spread around the group and Zaveid preened, looking smug before their genuine reaction.

"Not refusing an opportunity to boost your ego it seems." Dezel grumbled.

Zaveid’s arm lifted from Lucas’s shoulder and started to reach for Dezel who ducked out of the way. His attitude didn't deter Zaveid who made a grand gesture with his hand instead as if his gesture was what he had intended from the start.

"For once I was close by at that time of the year, I wouldn't let go of my chance to compete in a renowned tournament." He shrugged, and leaned toward Rose lowering his voice," The more to catch the eye of a potential employer."

Rose didn't seem impressed at all but something shimmered in the blue of her eyes, telling Mikleo that she could empathize with that. Though, Rose seemed to want to encourage Zaveid to talk more about the business of a sword for hire she was the first to perk at the sound of a bell.

"Well those are my cue to go. I would have loved to talk more with you guys but the tournament is about to start." Zaveid stated matter of factly, "Maybe we could catch up later then? I'm curious to know how it ended with Feyrbrand."

"Take a guess. Do we look like we were eaten? There is nothing to talk with you about you can disappear." Dezel threw out rather sharply.

By the end of his tirade he was walking away from the group, clearly displeased with Zaveid’s suggestion. Rose followed him catching his arm and pushing him in a more secluded corner where she seemed to engage in a quiet conversation before Dezel could escape. They were out of hearing range but visible enough that they didn't need to go after them.

"Well looks like my hunch on the Dragon tamer identity wasn't too far off. Must be hard on him, Dezel was never the one to take loss too keenly" Rubbing his shoulder Zaveid looked sincerely sorry to have prompted such a reaction in Dezel.

It wasn't the first time Zaveid hinted of being acquainted with Dezel prior to their encounter near the Dragon's nest. Remembering about Lafarga and Dezel's anguish after discovering the older Seraph’s betrayal had Sorey glancing at him as Rose leaned on his arm his body language indicating that he was listening attentively to whatever she was discussing with him but was displeased by the subject. Mikleo followed his gaze but couldn't bear to look at them much longer as it was clearly a private moment between them.

"It was rather hard on them." Sorey responded only giving Zaveid what he needed to know not to pry them further.

Instead it made Zaveid’s attention shift toward Sorey and his amber eyes widened in recognition, "Oh, now Lailah’s presence with you makes sense. I have a hard time picturing you as Shepherd material though."

Lailah shifted and stood in front of Sorey before Mikleo could act on his instinct and lead him away by the hand that still connected them. Still, Sorey was the one to squeeze Mikleo's hand reassuringly, certain that Zaveid wasn't someone to be wary of.

"Maybe you should really refrain to talk about such a matter when there are prying ears around us." She chastised.

Her voice was firm and unyielding, full of promise of what she would do to Zaveid, should his recklessness bring any unwanted attention to Sorey despite the smile she was wearing. The wind seraph seemed to recoil at that, flinching as his eyes dulled like he was lost in thought all of sudden.

Lailah had warned Sorey of what it meant to accept his fate as a Shepherd. The strength it would grant him beyond human comprehension. Casting a wary glance around him, Mikleo suppressed a shiver when he noticed a few eyes lingering gaze on them. A group of only three humans with as much Seraphs accompanying them was bound to stand out and he was certain the kind of event the Hero Competition was must attract those of the power hungry kind they needed to avoid now.

"Right, I need to go now before they close the gates on me." Zaveid seemed to have lost some of his spark as he bid them goodbye, glancing one last time at Dezel.

"We'll encourage you." Sorey said.

As he chuckled, clearly pleased by Sorey's offer, it was the first time that Mikleo didn't feel any sense of danger coming from Zaveid. It was like for the first time, he was truly baring his honest feelings toward them and Mikleo knew he would never try to fight his way with them again. Well, it would be suicide to confront a group of five Dragoons anyway.

"Then I'll try to make you enjoy the show." Zaveid answered.

With a grand gesture of his hand, he excused himself with an exaggerated bow and winked at Lailah before turning his back on them and started to run about when the bell rang again.

It was only after he was completely out of sight that Dezel and Rose came back toward the rest of the group.

Dezel grumbled low, "That's guy, I really can't stand him." He felt the need to justify, "I can't explain it, it's like he kept rubbing me the wrong way."

Clutching her hand in front of her dress, Lailah was the first to agree, "Well, he does seem unbearable most of the time but I'm sure he has no ill intent."

Sorey scratched his neck, "I don't particularly dislike him, he seems nice enough to me."

"You gave your trust too easily, Sorey." Mikleo rebuked him.

"Nah, he could be a nice guy when he wants to," Rose interjected and sounding certain, "It's just an alpha male thing between two wind Seraphs" she nudged Dezel teasingly.

"Enough talking. Let's go find our seats."

Though he didn't completely refute Rose's arguments and Mikleo was convinced Sorey would have been glad to hear more about interactions between Seraphs, Dezel's irritation was enough to close the discussion.

When Rose told them she had reserved seats the day before the start of the actual tournament, she didn't specify that as a famous merchant guild dealer she would have had a whole tribune. Mikleo was grateful for the privacy it provided. Behind the thin planks that served as walls he could hear the galvanized yells of encouragement from the crowd and wasn't so sure he could have endured this wildness of the whole tournament because it was just like Rose made it sound when she talked about it being only sweaty and gross men rolling in the dust.

Her dislike of such a show must be one of the reasons why she didn't accompany them further, choosing she would rather help her team prepare the merchandise for the big sale they were about to do during and after the tournament. Her presence was missed though.

Mikleo would have thanked her for backing him in refraining Sorey from participating in the tournament. He knew without her support he would have ceded eventually. And he was glad it didn't happen because the fighters were ruthless.

The tournament wasn't without rules but they were barely respected and that in itself was disheartening. They were using real weapons in here and even if dealing a serious injury was against those rules, more than one fighter was left a bleeding mess in the end.

It was barbaric. It made Mikleo’s stomach churn at the idea Sorey could have fought in this pit.

His eyes kept coming toward Sorey with the lingering impression there possibly was some poison left in his system. The green in Sorey's eyes was shining though, full of the life and the intelligence he was used to and it reassured Mikleo.

He brought a hand to his chest, heart constricting when a feeling of dread came back like a ghost of the past, something he had started to feel at a young age when he started to understand the concept of death and what Sorey’s weak constitution implied. That feeling had grown distant with the years and Sorey growing stronger and healthier, overcoming his sickness to become the young man he was today yet it had come back full force as Mikleo had to watch Sorey's body shut down little by little like a waning candle.

It was over now, Mikleo kept reminding himself as he watched Sorey literally glow and beam. A less gentle part of him kept reminding Mikleo that it was a façade that Sorey was still lying not to worry him. Rose had told him how she had a fever the first time she had turned into a Dragoon. Sorey had yet to test his new power but it was hard to think that he wasn't affected somehow.

Now that he looked at Sorey, really looked at him, Mikleo felt the subtle change in him. Barely there and feeble yet growing stronger with each heartbeat. He could feel a new thread in their connection, a new light next to the warm presence inside him. It was raw power gifted by the Dragoon spirit and it resonated with Mikleo's.

A loud cheer in the crowd brought Mikleo's attention back to the tournament as the director of the show announced the end of the first round of fights.

He bit his lips, willing himself to focus on the tournament. Something he should enjoy beside Sorey instead of mulling on the future and the past like he was.

It had ended faster than Mikleo had anticipated. In fact the first half of the tournament mostly served to weed out the weakest fighters as most of the weaker contestants gave in without much competition. From the twenty first contestants, only three had caught Mikelo’s interest. He was actually anticipating seeing them fight in the next phase.

There had been a few Seraphs competing. The highest number of Seraphs Mikleo had seen gathered outside of Elysia. It made Mikleo truly realize that Seraphs clearly avoided mingling with humans. Seraphic artes were forbidden, though. It indeed was an unfair advantage to the other fighters. Still, it was actually nice to see fellow Seraphim prove humans that they could be as strong as them without relying on their magic tricks. The fight involving an earth Seraph that used his bare hands as weapons was the only time Mikleo rose from his seat to clap as the referee declared the Seraph victorious. It would be nice to see him actually reach the top places of the tournament.

Sorey and Lucas were the ones that were galvanized by the general ambiance inside the Arena. They were encouraging the fighters loudly, often rising from their seat. More than once, Mikleo smiled at Sorey because his fervor was contagious and it was nice to see him this lively.

 However, Lucas would from time to time turn toward Lailah just to make sure she was enjoying it as well, ever the devoted knight. She was on the opposite side of their bench from Mikleo and even though she was more timid in her cheering than Sorey was, Mikleo could tell she was appreciating the show just from the way she would tense up when one of the contestants did something out of the ordinary.

Mikleo was sitting between Sorey and Dezel and he could swear the wind Seraph had actually fallen asleep during the first half hour. That he could find some rest in this crowded arena was beyond Mikleo but he wasn't the one to comment on Dezel’s apparent boredom.

Sorey nudged his shoulder as the next fight started, a dainty looking archer marching toward a burly armored man, a fight that seemed a bit unfair to Mikleo.

"What do you say about that one?" He nodded at the archer when the first row of arrows fell swiftly on the armored man.

It took only a few minutes of observation for Mikleo to sigh and fall back limply on his seat grumbling to Sorey.

"Why do they keep putting poison on their weapon if it's forbidden? The archer's arrows are coated in some sleeping potion, you know? He would be eliminated even if he did win."

Half of the fights ended like that, fair play was clearly not part of that competition. It was nothing like Gramps stories of proud knights and great fighters and Mikleo’s disappointment must have reached Sorey.

Yet, Sorey’s expression turned into one of appreciation when the archer pulled a great move, using part of the wall to propel himself and fired four arrows at once as he avoided the armored man’s club nearly falling on his back.

Mikleo jumped in surprise when Sorey nuzzled his nose in his hair before kissing the top of his head. Those affections were something new, but Mikleo could get used to them soon enough. He relaxed against Sorey, leaning closer after checking that no one was giving them unwanted attention. A contended sigh left his mouth before he could prevent it.

"The archer is good, though. Do you really think he’s cheating?" Sorey said

Mikleo nodded his answer looking up at Sorey with furrowed brows," Sorry I'm no fun." Mikleo said sarcasm dribbling from his voice.

"Still, I'm glad you are here with me."

Mikleo wished those moments would last but a treacherous part of his mind kept reminding him that it was all but a small respite in their quest.

It fell upon Mikleo's chest like a crushing weight, the realization that they were both chosen now, immense power fitting in their hands and they had to find Gramps before they were overwhelmed by it. Yet it was comforting to know that whatever fate the Dragoon Spirits would befall upon them they would face it together.

As if awakened by Mikleo's thought, he felt his circlet grow warm and felt a slight pulse of energy. Heart hammering in his chest, Mikleo took a deep breath to calm down. Looking up he found concern in Sorey’s eyes. It was obvious that Sorey felt that too, it was no use hiding it.

Struggling to push those intrusive thoughts away and enjoy this closeness with Sorey, Mikleo intertwined their fingers grounding them. It seemed to work, Mikleo's power going back to a gentle lull at the back of his mind as he huddled more comfortably against Sorey.

It looked like the fight had just ended with the armored man yielding but like Mikleo had predicted the archer was disqualified. The pouting expression Sorey gave him was all it took for Mikleo to forget all of his worry.

"Look, it's Zaveid’s turn!" Sorey suddenly exclaimed.

It was like he had felt Mikleo's smart comment approach and had expectedly diverted him away from it. His grin must have given him away.

But his lips were turning upward as it was Mikleo's turn to pout after Zaveid unknowingly ruined their moment. Although to Mikleo’s amusement, he felt Dezel stir to attention beside him. He was still pretending to be asleep, but there was no mistaking the slight twinge in the muscle of his jaw.

The light of the torches inside the pit cast ominous shadows against Zaveid’s face. In this light his usual smile looked thin, almost like a sneer. With his bronze skin and exotic tattoos bared he looked really dangerous. If he hadn't already met the Seraph before Mikleo would have branded him as bloodthirsty.

Zaveid was put against a fighter wielding a long sword and donning a full suit of plate mail, a winged helmet protected his head. Mikleo distantly heard the director announce him as Serfius the red. The man was rather short and Zaveid’s larger stature seemed more imposing beside him.

Being a long range fighter, Zaveid was quick to evade the swift strike of Serfius’ sword. As the fight went on, Mikleo found himself beside Sorey against the railing as he was shooting encouragement at Zaveid. The fight left him hanging, Zaveid playing a cat and mouse game with a fighter that should obviously have overpowered him. But Zaveid was stronger than he let on, fast and nimble despite his heavier stature.

There was no pretending to be asleep for Dezel anymore when he involuntarily let out a quiet gasp when Serfius adapted his strategy and managed to kick Zaveid’s midsection after a jump. It was obvious he intended to land the blow with his sword and Zaveid barely avoided it.

It was Zaveid’s turn to change strategy after that, his defensive stance becoming more aggressive as he was soon overwhelming his adversary with a barrage of strikes from his pendulums. It gave the illusion that there was a multitude of flexible strings cutting right into Serfius’ armor.

And just like that, with cheers and applause from the crowd, the fight ended with Serfius on his knees and the director declaring Zaveid victorious.

He was waving at the spectators when Mikleo noticed he was gripping the railing having risen from his seat somewhere during the fight. Sorey beside him was waving back at Zaveid shooting praise at his fighting style and Mikleo couldn't help but to glower at the other Seraph when he winked back at Sorey. Mikleo made sure Zaveid felt his eyes on him even after he'd left the pit.

"Man, he really can fight. Do you think he was holding back when we fought against him?" Sorey fell back on the bench, he crossed his arms over his chest with a thoughtful expression pulling on his lips," I can't understand why though. If he really wanted to prevent us from going after the Dragon he could have done it."

Mikleo shrugged, "I think he mostly wanted to test us," He looked back toward Sorey as a realization hit him, "Wait, he felt the Silver White Dragoon power in you. He must have felt mine and Rose’s power too so he had no real reason to fight us! Unless…"

"Do you think he could be a Dragoon too?" Sorey and Mikleo said at the same time.

"No." Dezel’s voice cut like a knife like the very idea made him uncomfortable.

Yet Mikleo could see his hand shake lightly from the impression the fight left in him and that was not disgust. To Mikleo it felt like Dezel was itching to test his skills against Zaveid. Their style may be the same but from knowing how Dezel fought he knew he had some tricks to learn from Zaveid.

Their outburst had drawn the others attention, Lailah leaned over Lucas who was rendered speechless by her proximity. Her long hair was pooling on the man’s knees, draping over him like a blanket and that must be one of the reasons why he looked like he had stopped breathing.

"Dezel is right. Your spirits would have resonated together if he was a chosen one. The only explanation I can give is that he must have known other Dragoon before."

It was a good thing for Lucas that his relief went unnoticed as she regained her place because Sorey and Mikleo were busy coming together, thinking alike as Lailah suggestion lit some hope in them.

"We should definitively ask him about Gramps."

For once, Dezel didn't protest now that there was no more avoiding Zaveid.

With that weighing on Mikleo's mind, he had some trouble focusing on the rest of the tournament. He could tell it was sort of the same for Sorey with the way he touched his earring from time to time even though he acted the same way he had since the beginning, loudly encouraging the fighters he appreciated.

Now Mikleo was certain that Sorey was plagued by the same thought as him, worry growing as signs of their Gramps whereabouts had grown scarce. He could only offer some support, trying to alleviate Sorey’s worry when his own made him impatient for the tournament to end, giving them an opportunity to talk to Zaveid.

 Now that they couldn't be more impressed by Zaveid's skill they couldn't wait to have a talk with him. Mikleo anticipated that he would try to avoid their inquiry behind his usual attitude and came up with a scenario to make Zaveid talk because he absolutely must know something about Gramps.

It never occurred to them that he may not have useful information.

From the time it took for Zaveid to be qualified for the finale. It wasn't only Sorey and Mikleo that had grown anxious to talk to him. Dezel couldn't hide his interest anymore as he rested his upper body on the railing waiting as Zaveid proudly stood in the middle of the pit.

The director announced the oncoming fight, Zaveid the Tempest against the last year Champion and the whole arena became wild, round of applause drowned by cheers and chant of Zaveid’s name.

Dezel couldn't hide the slight scrunching of his nose at that, but his body stance spoke of how much his attention was toward what's occurring inside the pit.

The moment the champion entered Mikleo felt a chill run down his back as Dezel's body stiffened. There was something about the man that just entered that woke some instinct inside Mikleo. The man’s skin was so pale it was almost white and he had pointy ears and long light-brown hair with white tips tied in a very fluffy ponytail. But it was his amber eyes that radiated something wild, something dangerous, like a fox observing a prey he had cornered before pouncing, a raw hunger that had Mikleo involuntarily fold on himself. It was hard to hear what he and Zaveid were discussing with all the noise in the arena but when the man showed a wide grin Mikleo had to grasp his pants just to stop his hand from shaking.

"Lunarre."

Dezel’s voice held so much bitterness that Mikleo could almost taste it on his tongue.

"You know him?" Sorey asked.

"Yeah."

And it was obvious he wouldn't be able to prod much more out of Dezel's mouth. Now that he looked closer Mikleo recognized the familiarity in Lunarre’s outfit. The hooded vest over a black shirt tied with a brown belt were the same thing he saw Rose wear more than once, the Scattered Bones outfit.

"He is… one of yours," Mikleo let out, an assessment rather than a question.

"Not anymore," Dezel growled. It sounded like a warning though and Mikleo heard it for what it was.

He could still ask Rose later. Knowing that Lunarre was a former member of Rose's guild did nothing to help ease the foreboding feeling that crept into Mikleo the second the fox like man appeared in front of Zaveid. Mikleo’s eyes sought Sorey and as the exchanges between the two fighters started he choose to turn toward Mikleo instead. He caught Mikleo’s hand in his even before his butt had landed back on the wooden bench.

"There is something off with him." Sorey asserted bringing Mikleo against him. "I…it feels just like with Lafarga but worse," he whispered the end to avoid being overheard as they all knew it was a touchy subject for Dezel.

Sorey forgot that without eyesight to rely on Dezel's ears were sharp.

"You’re right. He feels just like Lafarga."

Though his words were stifled between clenched teeth, Mikleo was surprised that there wasn't more of the anger Dezel had shown each time the same subject was breached. He wondered if Rose and Dezel had the opportunity to talk about the unsaid standing like a wall between them. It was hard to even start to grasp what it must feel like to have a member of your family betray and destroy everything you knew. More than anything, Dezel and Rose were the ones that had to put an end to Lafarga’s life.

"What is that?! He can't use Seraphic artes, he’s going to be disqualified!"

Lucas’s outburst forced Mikleo's thought away and he rose up to stand back against the railing looking closely at what was happening inside the pit below.

Zaveid had pulled a foreign looking weapon from his belt and had fired something from it, right at his head. Cold winds were now rising from his slumped form, before retreating back into his body.

Lunarre’s smile turned feral as he licked his lips, Mikleo could almost hear his horrendous laugh between the loud echoes of astonishment from the spectators.

The next moment, silver blue flame appeared in Lunarre’s hands in response to Zaveid. With his eyes growing huge in disbelief, Mikleo watched a human impossibly cast a magical Arte.

"I don't think Zaveid’s concern is about winning or not right now."

Lailah’s comment went unheard because at the same moment Sorey shouted in disbelief as Lunarre summersaulted away from Zaveid’s range at lightning speed. He started to run on the outer side of the pit, trying to go behind Zaveid.

The wind seraph too was showing improved skills, whatever that weird weapon had done to him it allowed Zaveid to fight with more than all he had. It was almost impossible to follow the fighters now, the vicious blow breaking the ground and raising dust, wood splintered loudly and the Director called for calm evacuation when the spectators started to cry in alarm.

The rest happened too fast for Mikleo to properly recall. People listened to the attendant and followed the guards leading them to the emergency exits drowning the arena with panicked sounds as the wooden structure creaked loudly, weakened by the violence of Zaveid’s fight.

Sorey, Mikleo and Dezel took the opposite side, going toward the middle of the arena instead of following the crowd at the moment; they soon reached the other side of the arena where the contestant's entrance was situated.

A guard was projected heavily against the hole before landing at Sorey’s feet and he had to stop facing the backstage entrance. Lunarre was before him and with the way his back was slightly hunched it was hard to properly see just how tall he was. Even so it was like he was not seeing Sorey.

Paralysis was taking over Mikleo's limbs, animalistic fear and instinct prompting his legs to run the other way and it acted in conflict with his need to call his staff and protect Sorey. In result, he could only stand there, eyes fixated on Lunarre’s pale hand, his extended claw dribbling blood on the floor. And that most certainly wasn't Lunarre’s blood.

"You-" Sorey started hand reaching for his sword.

"Ah, that was boring. B-o-r-i-n-g." Lunarre ignored Sorey, stretching every letter as he stepped up. Suddenly he lifted his eyes, feral eyes glancing up and down at Sorey with unveiled hunger, "You smell good though, hard to resist. I'm sure he won't mind if I take just a little bite."

"Sorey!" Mikleo tried to warn.

Smile growing, Lunarre snickered at Mikleo’s pitifully attempt to move, he had managed to summon his staff in his hands, his stance more steady as he gathered his will. One glare at the water Seraph was all it took to send shivers down his back.

"Stop right there, Lunarre."

The sound of Dezel's voice managed to make Lunarre’s smile falter, he let out a noncommittal sound displeased by the turn of event. He dropped his head dramatically, shoulder sagging as he hissed at Dezel

"No time to lose with you."

The pressure on Mikleo’s shoulder was lifted the instant Lunarre’s focus changed from Sorey to the exit behind them. He gasped, frightened beyond anything he ever knew when Lunarre stood beside Sorey the next second, and he could do nothing to interfere as Lunarre leaned toward Sorey’s ear.

"Next time maybe?"

It was apparent now that Sorey was as unable to move as Mikleo was, eyes fixated on something on the floor and jaw set tight as he didn't dare to glance at the fox like man beside him.

He did nothing to stop Lunarre from going away. There was nothing he could do. There was nothing they could do.

 Dezel moved first reaching to help wounded guard as Mikleo felt anger brew inside his chest.

They did nothing.

That Lunarre just wreaked havoc inside the festival, most certainly wounding people in his pass and they did nothing, they let him go just like that. Why didn't they try to stop him? Because it was a work for the city guards?  That would be the stupidest excuse.

What… what had just happened? Mikleo couldn't start to fathom the truth.

 As Mikleo was bringing his arm around himself trying to stop his body from trembling in the aftershock of this encounter, Sorey's feet brought him to what he had been fixating on the ground. He reached the object with uncertainty and, face unreadable.

"He… he dropped that."

Turning to Mikleo, Sorey lifted the object he had picked up, presenting it to Mikleo in a slightly unsteady hand. The recognition in Mikleo’s violet eyes was instantaneous, hand coming up to cover his mouth as he felt bile rise in his throat. It was a long lacquered pipe made of the finest looking wood, its mouth piece and bowl shinned in the evening light, the gold it was made of ornamented in wavy patterns.

Just like Sorey, Mikleo knew those patterns by heart. His mind conjured the image he associated with the pipe, of an old man holding it between lips heavy smelling fumes drifting out of the bowl end.

With his throat constricted as it was Mikleo could barely breathe, "Gramps…" the sound of his own gasp surprised him his eyes refusing to look at the object any longer.

"Dezel ! Guys !"

The urgent call diverted his attention for some time and Mikleo used that respite to catch some breath before properly letting the reality of the situation fall on him. Rosh had had no trouble finding them where they stood in the havoc left by the spectators’ evacuation. Banners and decorations trampled on the ground, the evening light pouring out from the wide open entrance and encasing them in its gentle glow.

Dezel lifted his head from the guard he was healing, brow furrowed and jaw clenched hoping he hadn't made a mistake in not bothering to stop someone as unpredictable as Lunarre.

Rosh was breathless, grey strands falling apart from his ponytail, "The boss...Rose…" he said between pants, "She's asking for you."

Mikleo let out a breath of relief, it wasn't Lunarre. Yet something in Rosh’s gaze, in the way he held himself told Mikleo that it could be worse.

"The General Landon…he-he… The Princess was taken back to Hellena Prison."

Chapter Text

It was a strange, almost foreign vision to have Lailah’s expression plunged into seriousness for so long. Mikleo found out he missed her easy smiles and conversations as the group traveled toward Hellena huddled up into one of the Sparrow Feather’s wagons.

The last time Mikleo had seen Lailah smile was when she had to convince Lucas to stay behind on her behalf, refusing to see her old friend embark in a journey she knew he couldn't follow them in. Everyone knew they won't be back home for a while, still her departure from Lohan wasn't the easiest. Not with this war still raging.

Lucas had smiled at her with his eyes full of unshed tears, bidding her goodbye with much less fuss than Mikleo would have predicted, seemingly content with his new mission to protect Lohan and keep Lailah’s shrine homey. From the little time they had spent together, Mikleo had learnt that Lucas was a brave man, humble and courageous enough to entrust his self-imposed mission to protect Lailah to someone else. He put his faith on Sorey and Rose's shoulders sending glares and threats their way should Lailah be harmed in some way.

This seriousness didn't suit Lailah. But if he was honest with himself Mikleo would have noticed by now that focusing on Lailah was a distraction, because he refused to think about Gramps.

As much as he was irked by Lailah though, Sorey's frown was starting to make Mikleo think about what he wanted to avoid thinking of.

Rosh’s report had fallen like a guillotine. The Sandoras planned to have Alisha executed by dawn. It was all it took to have Sorey rushing toward Hellena and if it wasn't for Rose’s self-control and cool Mikleo would have had trouble preventing him from rushing head first into the Lion's den. They needed a plan first. The fact that Alisha's safety would come before their quest was never a point for discussion. Had Sorey suggested they try to chase Lunarre first Mikleo would have questioned his judgment.

That Zaveid was nowhere to be found came as a surprise, yet Sorey had remained focused on their plan to infiltrate Hellena ignoring the fact that they were left with no leads at all other that Gramps old pipe.

They had yet to bring this touchy subject between themselves and to anyone else it might seem like they were avoiding talking about it. But Mikleo knew better. They didn't need to talk about it, he just knew. And he was positive Sorey had reached the same conclusion he had. They just had to share a glance.

Mikleo gulped when he remembered the pressure he felt under Lunarre’s presence, how he was rendered powerless and trembling. It didn't matter how strong Lunarre actually was and that he had somehow acquired Gramps pipe. Gramps was okay.

Gramps was the strongest Seraph they knew, and even in his Dragoon form Mikleo could only dream to be as strong as him. Lunarre couldn't have done something to him. Yet something happened and Mikleo couldn't even start to guess what. It put him on edge.

It was no use to reflect on that, all the more so as they hadn't had the start of a lead so Mikleo sighed, resting his forehead on his bent knee knowing Sorey was in the same inner turmoil as he was but unable to provide some sort of comfort.

"I wonder if Lunarre was a Hellion too."

The inquiry was out of Sorey's mouth before anyone could guess he was about to speak. It effectively cut through the heavy silence hanging in the wagon.

Dezel stretched one of his long legs in front of him when a rock on the road jostled their means of transportation, knocking Sorey's side a little. The seemingly innocent gesture owned him a not so innocent glare from Mikleo and an elbow to the ribs courtesy of Rose seated beside him.

If Sorey noticed the purpose of the gesture he didn't say anything, shifting closer to Mikleo instead to give more room for Dezel's leg.

Some seconds passed after that and the silence threatened to fall back, the only noise being the steady beating of hooves and the rattling noises of the wagon.

Despite his obvious reluctance to take part in that conversation, Dezel was the one to continue with a sight, "He did feel just like Lafarga. He had the same aura."

Sorey racked a hand through his hair thinking hard, "How is that possible… I mean no one had seen a Hellion in ages and yet a Seraph claims to have turned into one of them. And that man Lunarre, he wasn't human either, Right?"

"I'm positive that Lunarre was a Hellion."

"It's possible for any creature born from the Great Tree to become a Hellion."

The quiet tone of Lailah’s voice was barely heard between the wagon's noises. Her hand folded on her lap and with a gentle glow in her eyes she met the looks that turned toward her. Sorey’s jaw worked, and Mikleo could almost hear the millions of questions that started to form in his head. He had some of them too.

Lafarga in his dying breath confessed to have turned into a Hellion… but that had no sense for Mikleo at that time. Legend attested that Seraphim could turn into a Dragon if they became driven by their darkest feelings and emotions; if they allowed anger, hate, resentment, despair, greed, conceit, obsession, cowardice, and selfishness to drown them. But the event of a Seraph turning into a Dragon hadn't been recorded in more than thousands of years. More books than the Celestial Record attested that Hellion was another species born from The Great Tree, how could someone turn into a Hellion escaped his understanding.

"How could… are you sure?" Sorey eventually asked.

Lailah’s eyes shifted quickly as it became obvious she was quite uncomfortable with the subject. Lailah turned a reassuring smile to Sorey as she fiddled with some paper she had pulled out while searching for her words. No one wanted to pressure her but the bated silence was making everyone tense. She hid her mouth behind a sheet as she responded.

"Well, it's a taboo even among Seraphim, so I'm not used to talking about it, "She took a deep breath, "But I feel that as a Dragoon you'll need to know what I know."

Her eyes rose toward the wagon end where it was left open to allow the occupants to breathe. The sky was turning an orange and golden glow, the slow descent of the sun acting as an impromptu ticking clock. The linen covering the wagon roof and sides limited her view but it was like she could see everything surrounding them.

"Hellions don't exactly come from the Great Tree. It's more like every living creature can become one. It’s more like…" she trailed unable to find the right description.

"A disease." Dezel provided.

Lailah seemed to approve, she nodded, "Something like that. It's a sort of phenomenon we call Malevolence."

"I know about that." Mikleo couldn't help but to participate, curious glances were directed toward him prompting him to help Lailah in her explanation, "That's the negative emotions plaguing a Seraph soul that can turn them into a Dragon." It was a cruel irony that he just thought about those.

Sorey’s frown deepened and he bit his lips obviously remembering Gramps' lectures just as well as Mikleo.

"Yes, but those emotions alone aren't truly what turn us into Dragons. Malevolence plagues the minds and exacerbates those emotions but also it grants power and strength. Humans and Seraphim, as creatures gifted with reason are really sensitive to Malevolence. It… changes them for the worst and sometimes there is no turning back. I wasn't there myself but it's said that’s why the Dragoon war started, there was… so many Hellions at that time, so much Malevolence changing loved ones.

"Does that mean that history was written to make everyone forget that Hellions were loved ones before Malevolence turned them?" Sorey asked.

He looked doubtful, like he couldn't believe his own words. But they made sense, now that it was said out loud Mikleo could see why people would do such a thing. To forget, to erase the shame. Well, to him killing Hellions whether they were former human or not was something shameful anyway.

Lailah turned her head away at that, unable to respond. Her answer turned Sorey's expression into a mix between disbelief and understanding. History was important, and learning lessons from it helped to not make the same mistakes again and again yet even he could comprehend why one must chance the truth behind a hard fought war. He had trouble accepting it.

To add to that, all their life Mikleo and Sorey thought Hellions were another species born from the Tree, a cruel and powerful people that exterminated and enslaved the others because they thought themselves to be superiors. It was written in every record, every history book they had ever read.

 Lailah’s words didn't seem to be lies. She was sincerely shaken by what she was revealing, and still it was hard to grasp, hard to conceive, hard to forget about a fact that was part of them for so long.

It was hard to process that Hellions weren't always the monsters they had learnt to fear.

The weight on Mikleo’s chest suddenly became heavier and he had to take a deep breath to take it all in. Gramps had been aware of that, and it gave Mikleo some sort of betrayed feeling that he had never told them otherwise.

"Is… Is there a mean to quell malevolence?" Mikleo was genuinely curious.

At that Lailah lips rose slightly upward, "If the Malevolence didn't take root too deeply into the Hellion’s soul it can be purified and revert back to their original form."

"By a Shepherd and his Dragoon companion, am I right?"

Rose’s guess brought light into Lailah’s eyes and Mikleo glanced back at the visible patch of sky through the wagon cover as it all clicked together into place. The truth behind most of the Dragon Campaign

Someone, seraph it seemed had reached into the Earth pulse to give humans and Seraphim the power to help their friends and family, to save the ones turned into Hellions by malevolence, to stop the Hellion's supremacy. Mikleo could read between the lines of Lailah’s revelations, he could understand that not all Hellions can be saved, that a Seraph turned Dragon was too far gone and someone had to eventually end the lives of those that couldn't be purified. That’s what the Dragoon did.

"But I thought Hellions had disappeared after the war, yet-" Sorey wanted to know more but it seemed he was unsure about wanting to know the answer.

"That's because Malevolence levels had been so low since the war. I feel… I have the feeling it wasn't a coincidence for our Dragoon spirits to wake after so long. I think Malevolence levels are rising again."

"Do we need to stop that, to prevent Hellions from taking over the world again? Is that why you gave me the Silver White Spirit?"

His back straitening, Sorey’s expression closed becoming unreadable to someone who wasn't used to him. To Mikleo, Sorey was determined, righting his mind, readying himself to do what he would need to. Mikleo’s hand fisted his pants fabric.

Fingers carefully folding the piece of paper between her hands, Lailah’s eyes avoided Sorey and she sighed through her nose.

"Like I said before, your powers are yours and I'll prefer you find you own answer without me swaying your path. Be yourself, Sorey, Rose too. You both can be the Shepherds you want to be."

The sincerity and genuine care in her words seemed to lift some of the heaviness lingering in the cramped wagon. Even Dezel showed the ghost of a smile when Rose, hitting her fist against her palm commented:

"For now I want to rescue a Princess!"

Most of them couldn't help but to laugh at that.

There was a lull in the conversation after that, one Mikleo was thankful for. It gave him time to think, to ponder on both his and Sorey's future. There was no way to say what it'll be made of but looking at Sorey, Mikleo knew he wanted whatever Sorey would choose.

Silence was prevented from settling again as Rose and Lailah engaged in a quiet conversation about possible Dragoon goodies and merchandise, and Dezel judging by the way he was leaning toward them, his hat tilted over his eyes he was attentively listening. Mikleo swore he saw him smile once or twice. However Sorey’s frown remained plastered on his face, Mikleo wanted to put his finger between his brows to ease the pinch there.

As he was starting to move his hand to do just that, Sorey suddenly turned away, reaching for the Celestial Record at his belt before slowly opening it with unsure hands. His lower lip was bitten again as his eyes moved over familiar words.

"To think most of these hypotheses are false. The writer was misled, just like us."

Seeing Sorey so dejected was making Mikleo’s stomach upset, and the bumpy road didn't help. But as his eyes lit up with an idea he gently nudged Sorey's side, his smile full of promises.

"We just have to write our own book then, maybe adding our side of the story won't be too presumptuous. We can make History straight."

Lailah nearly jumped at that her eyes wide in astonishment, "That was a clever one!"

It was well into the night when Hellena’s tower came into view. Everyone was on edge and stood quiet waiting for the signal.

The plan was a simple one. But one Mikleo already tested with success the first time he came here. Mostly it was just jumping on a merchant wagon and hoping the guard at the gate wouldn't think about checking the merchandise again. It was a good enough plan on paper.

The drawbridge was already coming down and over the silence Mikleo heard Eguille’s voice greeting the guard loud and clear. The drawbridge clattered as it finished its lowering and just as the group was preparing to enter another voice rose.

"What are you doing? That's the Sparrow Feathers sigil they are not allowed here anymore."

There was more fussing and bustling noise, protest from Eguille and the unmistakable noise of heavy chains being pulled on.

"Shit!" Dezel's exclamation reflected everyone minds. "We don't have time for that."

He was out of the cart before anyone could ask him about his plan. Yet, without hesitation Sorey was behind him the next moment. With their cover blown anyway it was no use to stay hidden inside. Shrugging at Rose and Lailah, Mikleo joined the others.

The bridge was being lifted when Dezel started to run toward it, his long stride bringing him closer by the second and right before the bridge was too high for any of them he gracefully leapt. Even with the wind helping him though, Dezel barely made it, his gloved hand gripping the bridge tightly while it was raised to a vertical position. He groaned from exertion as he climbed the rest of the way.

"Dezel, what are you doing!" Rose called after him.

Standing tall on the edge of the raised bridge, Dezel turned toward them flashing a big grin, " It’s nothing! I'll take care of this!"

Then he promptly jumped on the other side. With the bridge up it was impossible to properly see what was going on. Mikleo exchanged a concerned glance with Rose and she merely shrugged, fingers playing with the bead in her hair. Clashes of metal against metal could be heard as well as some loud protestations followed by groans and faint cries.

And then the bridge fell all the way back down, loudly impacting the road and opening the way. Dezel stood proudly on the other side, hand on his hip.

"Come on in. What are you waiting for?"

Letting out a laugh, Sorey again was the first to follow as Rose was busy giving instructions to Eguille. The older man had a worried glint in his eyes but he was nodding at Rose listening to her orders.

Mikleo willed is eyes not to stray and looked at the downed guard, though he winced as he heard one moan in pain. It was hard to forget how ruthless Dezel could be in battle because Mikleo was acquainted and had become used to his gentle and quiet side. It was because Mikleo had seen those sides of Dezel that he knew that they were all alive.

The portcullis was still raised, one less obstacle. Even so, the group certainly didn't expect for the few guards guarding the main gate to flee right upon sighting them. It was obvious they would raise the alarm and come back with reinforcements. They had to act quickly now that discreet infiltration had gone down the drain.

"So, this place is huge. Any ideas where the Princess could be held? Should we split up to cover more ground?" Rose started, sweeping the prison hallway with her gaze.

There was three main ways to follow from here, one Mikleo remembered lead to the stable, which still left two ways to explore and barely few hours left before sunrise. He was positive they would rescue Alisha in time but it wouldn’t hurt to have more luck on their side.

Holding his chin in his hand, Sorey looked around himself trying to remember the prison’s general outline.

"Maybe they brought her back in the tight security area? That's where they took us the first time."

Mikleo nodded, it made sense and he remembered the way from here, even though he flinched at the fact that it would take more or less one hour to get there with the elevator system. As the hours in the night were running out so was their time. If Alisha was to be executed there was no hope of ending this war without bloodshed left.

If something did happen to her Sorey would never forgive himself, neither could Mikleo. She was their friend, and they would rescue her.

"No. Landon is a man who loves to hear his own voice and he wouldn't pass an opportunity for a good dramatization. There is a huge chance they already took Alisha where her execution must be held, to prepare the stage." Slowly he rose his head looking up at the vaulted ceiling, there was a frown forming behind his bangs," I know exactly where they took her."

Mikleo was confident that Dezel knew what he was saying. He had trust in those words and nodded at the others voicing his agreement with Dezel. This Prison was the place where he first met the aloof Seraph, he had time to explore and there was obviously something else here, something no one dared to ask.

However when no one spoke up, waiting for Dezel to give them the precisions they obviously all waited for, Sorey cleared his throat. Mikleo noticed the slight jump in Dezel’s stance and the quick shift in his footing like he was fighting embarrassment. Only then he stepped in front of the group, taking the lead.

"There is only one place in this wretched tower where the sun can be seen."

Dezel finally said as he gestured for them to follow. The first corridor was small, not allowing more than two people to stand side by side so Mikleo followed behind Dezel, Sorey close behind him with the girls bringing up the rear.

The bubble of uncertainty inside Mikleo, the one that reminded him that there was always a slim chance that they wouldn't arrive in time suddenly grew, threatening to burst. Ignoring the knot it formed in his stomach he followed Dezel into the long, dark corridors.

They had to climb to the top of the tower and it was no use losing any more time in pondering and what ifs.

He remembered that Dezel's senses were altered here, lack of aeration and updrafts from the fire pits and cracks in the earth perturbing the wind he relied on. However Dezel's step seemed perfectly assured and there was no discussing the fact that he knew exactly where he was leading them.

 Everyone was standing on edge and was watching for the enemy, Rose’s hands never left the handle of her daggers though she had yet to take them out of the sheath. Lailah and she were exchanging quiet words that seemed too loud in the narrowness. Sorey kept casting glances behind them too, obviously worried that no one was following them, that no one was stopping them.

 Mikleo had expected the Sandoras to have raised the security after their first grand evasion, yet there maybe were fewer guards than the first time he came here. It was suspicious to say the least but there was nothing they could do about it but be prepared.

 The more they progressed inside the prison, corridor leading to tunnels, tunnels leading to ladders or stairs the more the tension grew. Now they had more space to move the tunnels were larger with high ceiling but here the prison was far from being silent, lots different noise making the place sound like a beehive. The prisoners still put at work like no one had given the alert that the prison was being infiltrated.

 The noises seemed to come from everywhere and Mikleo couldn't wait to be out of the tunnels

They had to be even more alert in the larger tunnels where an ambush could fall on them at every turn. Here the guard had all the space they could need to subdue them, attacking them in large numbers. Mikleo couldn't exactly tell how much time they had spent wandering, yet as more time passed no one came to hinder their path.

 Dezel looked almost surprised when they finally exited the tunnels into an open area. They came out in a large room where the tunnels crossed into three others. The place seemed to be able to hold lots of people with stairs leading to another level and even some signs on the wall inviting to caution and giving instruction. The upper levels were connected by small wooden bridges and balconies leading into other corridors. Brazier and torches were dispatched all around the room keeping it well lit even at such late hours. There was a large door on the far wall, huge iron nails decorating it.

 Making a grand gesture toward the door, Dezel inclined his hat, "The VIP elevator," he introduced with a deadpan voice. "Leading right to the top."

Of course there would be another way, a faster way to access the remotes places of this prison than the way, the long and tortuous way they used last time to get out of here and Mikleo was a bit vexed to not have thought about it.

He felt the corner of his lips rise into a small smile as the bubble of incertitude inside him was crushed by hope. Alisha was right behind that elevator and she would be out of this place and safe well before the first light of dawn. Beside him Sorey seemed troubled though, informing Mikleo quietly that he remembered about that place.

"Well, well that's certainly a huge rescue party for only one girl."

Hand closing tightly around his staff, Mikleo was standing at Sorey's back before the voice could finish its phrase. He recognized the sound of that voice, irritating and grating like nails on a board. The first time he had heard it was when something precious was taken away from him. He would have been perfectly content to spend the rest of his life without hearing it again.

She was just on top of them, her legs dangling from one of the bridges connecting the upper parts of the room. Her large eyes were peering at them with mirth, her thin lips pulled into a smile as she held her head in her hand. In her other hand she was nonchalantly twirling a small baton, the ruby at the end castings highlights on the wall as it reflected the light from the torch.

If he didn't know better, Mikleo would have thought she was happy to see them.

"Symonne."

 Four heads turned instinctively toward Dezel, the sound he had just made as he pronounced her name alarming them. It had sounded broken, like a wounded animal, full of pent up rage and repressed anger so unlike Dezel that they all were wondering if he had actually been the one talking. The proof was right in front of their eyes.

When confronted to Lafarga Dezel was shaking with incomprehension as anger bubbled inside him now he was as stiff as a rock his hands gripping tight on his pendulum. He was waiting patiently, breathing deep for the girl to move, to speak, to do anything that could prompt him to act. And he was radiating murder. He wanted her dead. He wanted to be the one to kill her.

It was so baffling to see him like that that even Rose was at a loss. She could have been the one to reach him, to take him out of his murderous trance but she couldn't move. She reached a hand toward him, before retracting it against herself and looking away.

There was obviously something happening between the two of them. Sorey moved to talk but Mikleo stopped him with whispering him to wait and for once Sorey actually listened to him.

"Oh, oh, certainly didn't expect to see Lafarga’s puppy here. Didn't know you were alive, though I should have guessed when someone took care of him."

She made a dismissive gesture with her baton, rolling her eyes like the thought of him was annoying her. Dezel’s response came in the form of a growling sound rising from his chest.

"You. You were the one to poison his minds with vile thoughts! You were the one to send our enemies on us! You destroyed the Wind Riders! You killed Brad!" He yelled, spitting his accusations and finally freeing his chest from his entire burden.

"So? Lafarga was the one to have those thoughts in the first place. I just pushed him into the right direction."

Lailah’s yelp could be heard over the bridge’s destruction, she hid her face in her hands as bits of wood and ropes fell on the ground. She stepped up, her eyes urgently seeking Dezel. He had somehow landed on the other side of the room his pendulum still ringing as he was struggling with heavy breathing.

"Dezel, please! You mustn't fall prey to your anger. There-There is a source of malevolence here!"

Lailah’s plea rang heavily in the large room, cutting Mikleo’s breath at its implication. He could feel it too, something foul and rotten trying to claw its way inside his head. Stray thoughts of Gramps, Sorey and Alisha flashing in his mind. His doubt plagued him while his despair grew heavy. He inhaled sharply, shaking his head trying to clear his storming emotions.

Her quiet chuckle sounded right beside his ear. "Water is the easiest element to corrupt."

His body recoiled as Symmone breathed in his ear, her syrupy voice penetrating and permeating his brain. He landed right into Sorey’s chest, a hand rose to squeeze his arm gently, reassuring and grounding him. Mikleo exhaled his focus falling back on the threat.

Symonne was left completely unscathed by Dezel’s attack. She was now standing on the bridge opposite from the one where she sat.

"Predictable."

She twirled her baton once more. Suddenly, guards appeared from all around them, two for each of them, eight lances directed right toward their chest. Mikleo glared at Symonne, understanding that she was the one to blame for this ambush. He heard Dezel swear from his side, now unable to act if he wanted to keep them safe. He hesitated though, keeping his pendulum at the ready.

Symonne laughed out loud, "Is he really your friend? Seems like even now he wants to go after me? Does he care that you'll be killed if he moves? That's the kind of friend you want? "She looked at Rose, "All this time using you and your guild to find me, not caring about whether he put you in danger or not."

Rose grumbled trying to move her way past the guard keeping her away from Symonne, but the sharp point of a lance pushed against her ribs halted her and she took a step back, stifling.

There was no way to guess Dezel’s expression as he righted himself, tilting his hat over his head. He didn't move as Symonne continued to talk, telling them the kind of friend he was.

Moving around the room, Symmone’s steps were bringing her right toward Dezel, right where she knew he couldn't do anything to her. She stopped a few feet away from him, tapping her baton against her leg.

"Let me tell you something. You were the one who put those thoughts into Lafarga’s head."

Dezel froze. Mikleo expected him to scream about nonsense, to refute Symonne but he just stood there, chest heaving.

"Oh Lafarga, if only you were as strong as Brad!"

She walked one step closer, he took a step back.

Mikleo felt the cold of the blade through his clothes as it kept pushing him back. The guards had the four of them standing almost back to back. It was so hard to stay still and watch as Dezel was played by that strange Seraph? He could tell Rose was barely holding herself and Sorey would have moved if it wasn't for Mikleo holding him back.

There was nothing they could do.

"Oh Lafarga, humans age well before Seraphs, right? So Brad will die before us, right? But I wish the Wind Riders would always be the same.

She came closer again. Another step back, Dezel’s hands started to shake.

"I… I was..."

"You what? You were a child? You didn't know? Poor thing, his life is so drowned in his own lies he had started to believe in them."

Before she had time to talk more, Dezel lunged. A scream tore from his lungs as he lashed at Symonne his pendulum coiling around the small seraph. It would have torn her apart; the strings would have dug into her without mercy. But the pendulums met only mist, a thick purple cloud standing where Symonne should have been.

"And again you condemn your friends." She drawled, emphasizing the last word.

She was standing near the elevator gate. Dezel was too stunned to react, waiting for screams and splattering of blood to fill his ears, his knees buckled under him as tremors shook his body.

"Don't listen to her! You're one of us!"

Rose’s voice cut through the dense silence that followed Dezel’s collapse, and he visibly flinched at her voice. Mikleo barely heard him mumble her name like he couldn't believe his inconsiderate move had not killed her.

Symmone’s smile fathered when he stood facing her. She sighed, "Still fighting?"

Then she pulled on the lever beside her.

The ground moved and Mikleo could only grip Sorey tightly as he felt the ground slip from under him. The hidden trap fell swiftly not giving them time to react and their surprised screams rang. They were falling.

Dezel growled low again, swearing under his breath as his running feet stopped right before the hole where his companions were standing only seconds before.

"Now it's up to you. You can either come after me and get your revenge or you could go save them before Landon’s pet gets his midnight snack."

 Something cold landed on Sorey, making him flinch, another drop fell and he blinked his eyes open, groaning at the pounding headache threatening to split his head in two. He wasn't aware he had fallen asleep but recently he had ended up on his back more than he would like to. Being knocked out was becoming a running gag, and it wasn't a pleasant one.

A weight on his chest prevented him from rising completely and he looked up curious to know what could be so heavy. No wonder he felt like had been trampled by an Elysian goat, Mikleo may be small but he could be heavy, especially if he was unconscious too.

At the sight of Mikleo sprawled over him, Sorey remembered the recent happenings. How a trap had opened beneath them and how they fell. They fell quite a long way too and if it wasn't for Mikleo summoning a wave of water to cushion their fall he might have ended up cracking his skull against a rock.

It certainly explained the drops of water falling repetitively on his face, and why he was drenched too.

"Mikleo, move I can't breathe." Scrunching he tried to move from under Mikleo

The movement did make Mikleo stir in turn and he blinked drowsily, flash of violet visible under his battling eyelids. His eyes meeting Sorey's, Mikleo’s lips started to turn upward into an affectionate smile, his cheek nuzzling Sorey's chest. He looked quite comfortable where he was. When Sorey didn't mirror his expression Mikleo started to come to himself, eyes darting back and forth as he took in their surroundings. Then he jerked away from Sorey a flush spreading on his cheek when he noticed their audience.

Rose and Lailah were standing politely waiting for the both of them to stand as well.

"Is everyone Okay?" Sorey asked looking apologetic.

It was more to wipe away the knowing smile that both women shared as it was obvious they were unarmed, though they looked as confused as he was. Mikleo was walking around arms crossed over his chest and ignoring him.

"We are fine." Lailah answered her smile turning reassuring.

Sorey nodded starting to look around him as well. His eyes looked up toward the hole they fell into frowning at the barest sliver of light he could see up there. They had quite the fall.

The room they fell in was in fact a small cave, not having the same traces of digging and working that the rest of the tunnels had. It was like this place was left untouched on purpose. The walls were the same color as the outside of the tower supporting Sorey in his impression that this place was natural.

It was dark inside, the only source of light coming from a crack high on the wall. He frowned as he looked up at the steep and smooth wall. It was impossible to climb. Though he could see there seemed to be a way out from here if a hole obstructed by immense iron bars could be considered a way out.

"That Symonne is such a coward. Using traps and deception without fighting…" Rose trailed words laced with bitterness, "And Dezel is still up there… with her."

Putting a hand over her heart, Lailah seemed confident when she asserted:

"Dezel has a strong will, he won't be swayed that easily by Symonne. I'm sure."

It seemed to be what Rose needed to hear because she nodded, squaring her shoulder as she started to look around for a way out. Though the tension was still present in her body, Sorey noticing she kept glancing at the hole in the ceiling, she had a confidence in her stance that told Sorey she'll be okay. She truly believed that Dezel could take care of himself.

"I'm not that worried."

"Are these…bones?"

 All eyes turned on Mikleo as he nudged something with his foot. The thing made a rattling and hollow sound which in turn made Sorey cringe with the idea that those where indeed bones.

"Shush, did you here that?" Rose interrupted her hand up in a warning gesture.

The next moment everyone went silent and still. A chill ran down Sorey's spine when the sound Rose had heard seemed to reverberate against the cave wall. Something was... sniffing?

As if to answer Sorey's interrogation, the iron bars started to move, lifting from the ground. But it wasn't an exit like Sorey believed. His hand found his sword the moment the beast’s head came out of the recently opened hole.

Eyes shining yellow in the dark, the beast’s jaw opened at the sight of its next meal revealing spit glistened fangs. The beast had four tusks, two on each side of its square looking head and struck one angrily against the wall. It was bulky, barely managing to make its shoulders pass the opening. Its claws dug furrows into the dirt as it prepared to go after them. That beast was very hungry and it obviously liked human and seraph flesh.

Lailah came positioning herself right beside Sorey, holding small sheets of paper between her finger she adopted a defensive stance.

"Looks like someone is ugly."

Chapter Text

With a graceful move of her whole body, her dress flowing smoothly around her legs, Lailah sent four pieces of paper to each corner of the poorly lit cave and before Sorey could ask about her intention, the papers burst into flames, becoming makeshift torches whose light sent the beast reeling back.

Lailah's smile was triumphant while Sorey's eyes looked at her with appreciation. Looking at her Sorey realized he may have had a false first impression of her. Lailah was unlike any other fire Seraph Sorey had met before. Where someone like Mason had energy and warmth like a wildfire, spurred on by other elements and ravenous, Lailah at first had felt like the embers cooling into a hearth. At first glance, she seemed like a delicate and gentle person, albeit just a bit on the weird side, and it was coming from someone every other human found weird. Right now though, as the beast recovered from being temporarily blinded by the sudden burst of flame, coming back to claim his meal, she was like the lava fall into the Villude Volcano. Unstoppable, bright and beautiful.

The now fully lit room allowed Sorey to better see what it was they were defending themselves against. It looked like an oversized dog with a flat snoot and small flappy ears. The danger resided in its claws, fangs and tusks. Those looked harmful and the beast seemed impatient to take a bite of them. It stood on its four legs, forelegs muscular when its back legs were shorter and smaller. What Sorey thought was matted fur covering the creatures back was in fact rows of tightly woven scales, an armor purposely strapped to the beast’s back. It would be hard to penetrate with only his ceremonial sword.

 Glancing at his wooden sword held firmly in his hand Sorey wondered if he should consider changing it for something sharper. They kept meeting hard skinned monsters after all.

Mikleo's instantaneous presence at his left put him back into the fight and he stopped thinking of what ifs to face the danger.

"Is that a Hellion?" he had to ask, facing the monstrosity the creature was.

It was circling them slowly. Lailah's fire making it wary of them and forcing the creature to wait for an opportunity to strike. The group stood in close proximity but still having wide enough space between them to not interfere with each other. Rose was covering Sorey's right side her knifes held in front of her defensively.

Shaking her head, the tip of a paper between her fingers burning slowly in preparation, Lailah eyes never left the creature as she responded, "No, it’s a regular beast, though it's breeding is an apparent disaster. You would have felt it if it was malevolent, just like you did with Lunarre."

It made sense, Sorey should have thought of it. To be honest, he was still a little unsure and confused about the whole thing Lailah told them about Hellions. He wished he would have some more quiet time to properly reflect on it.

But the beast couldn't wait for Sorey to finish questioning its nature. It was famished and opening its mouth, it leapt right toward Rose.

Nevertheless, she was ready, easily side stepping she used the narrowness of the cave to her advantage. The monster had struck first, giving Rose the signal to retaliate. Her foot landed on the smooth wall and she used the leverage to jump behind the beast.

Lailah’s flaring paper scorched the beast’s side while Mikleo’s staff parried its attempt to claw at him. Sorey’s quick reflexes stopped him before he struck the beast’s other side. With the beast’s bulk they couldn't see the whip like tail it was trailing behind itself, a tail that ended in an armored ball.

As it struck Rose right in the chest, sending her falling back, Sorey couldn't miss it anymore. He let Mikleo and Lailah distract the beast’s movements to intercept Rose’s fall before she landed hard against a rock. He caught her in his arm, gasping out as he took in her whole weight.

"My hero." She coughed slightly, rolling her eyes at Sorey.

"You're welcome."

He helped her stand, not commenting the way she wavered before righting her stance, she was obviously more hurt than she let on.

She bumped her shoulder, "Don't look at me like I'm about to fall apart. I’ve had worse."

Rose promptly left Sorey behind, her war cry already echoing into the small cave as she ran back toward the beast wary of the tail this time. Yet again, Sorey had to remember that Rose was perfectly capable to handle herself. She had seen more fights than he could imagine. He smiled in spite of himself, feeling stupid that he still couldn't control his need to protect. Offending Rose was never his intention, but he wouldn't stop protecting her like he protected everyone.

The beast was now chomping at Mikleo’s staff, his face scrunched as he tried to dislodge his weapon. "Sorey! Need help here!"

Right, fighting, no thinking.

Sorey’s wooden sword passed between the tusks, striking the beast’s face hard. It was hard enough to make it spit back Mikleo’s staff. Promptly moving back to reaffirm his stance, Mikleo stared at his staff, looking disturbed by the slimy looking drool that still dribbled from it.

"It’s hide is tight. Elemental attacks have little to no effect."  Lailah assessed as she threw flaming paper after paper at the creature.

It swatted at it like it was annoying flies.

"Why am I still the only one carrying something sharp!" Rose complained as she tried to cut the strap holding the creature’s armor on its back.

Sorey’s eyes widened at her insight, the armor was there for something and that something must be the beast’s weakest point. Following her lead, he rounded on the beast’s other side, ducking to avoid the tail as it swept the air. His blade wasn't sharp enough to cut through the leather strapping but he was sure that with a good marital art, he might loosen the buckle.

"We have to take his armor away." he instructed.

The strappings were visibly attached to each paw and around the beast’s board chest and neck, it was easier said than done yet everyone responded with a positive, agreeing with Sorey’s plan.

Finding an opening took longer than expected, the group repeated assaults leaving the beast angry and impatient, its tentative to bite and claw at them gained in desperation. But the downside was they started to tire too, the beast keeping them alert at every moment. It was quick and huge; one single slip of attention could end up with grave injury as Rose’s overconfident move from earlier proved them.

"If only we could turn into Dragoon, but I still don't know how!" Sorey cried, frustration making his steps lose precision.

His last attempt to strike nearly had the beast’s claws draw a moon on his back.

"It's too narrow to fly, anyway." Rose asserted, again more experienced than him, "And you would feel it when you are ready."

"Yeah, it feels like something’s about to burst, you just have to tell your body and mind to release the pressure."

Mikleo provided, twin flows following his order to rise and strike at the beast’s nose, distracting it enough for Sorey to try another cut. But Sorey stopped, hand rising to allow his fingers to claw at his heart, his breath hitching and sudden searing pain making him unsteady.

"Sorey! Careful!"

Rose's knife dug a long stripe into the beast’s tail, making it flail in pain. It's flailing arm nearly touched the unmoving Sorey and it was only because of Lailah’s reflexes that he was pushed into the dirt, Lailah's body over his.

"It's Dezel. He must have turned into a Dragoon. He caused Sorey pain by drawing too much mana." She threw over her shoulder, barely hiding her concern.

"Yeah, I felt it too."

Lailah helped Sorey up, looking at him with concern before darting back to the fight. "It will pass soon, stay back for now." She instructed.

 He nodded, telling her it was okay before she turned back to the beast. With an arc of flaming paper she pushed it away from Mikleo as he was preparing to cast an arte.

Sorey's eyes closed, hand clutching his chest. It was not exactly pain, more like a tug or a pull that took over Sorey's heart. Like he was overflown with emotions and feeling, he could tell that they weren't his but they were so jumbled, such a mess that it clouded his brain as well. He had to step back from the fight, leaning his shoulder on the wall for support as he sorted this out.

Shaking a little he breathed through his nose, his eyes falling back on his friends. On Mikleo whose face was set determinately, water flowing around him as he hit the seething beast with it. On Lailah who managed to limit the beast’s movements, her face lighting up with each burst of her flames. And finally, on Rose who was refraining to look above back into the hole from where they fell. She had one eye closed as she too took some of their shared pain and she was favoring her right side, the wound inflected by the beast’s tail more severe than she wanted Sorey to know.

But he noticed, because he cared. Sorey knew she was troubled, he knew how there was no way she couldn't be worried. He was too. Dezel’s energy was in such disarray, Rose must be feeling it just like he was and Sorey sympathized with her because he refused to imagine what he would feel if it was Mikleo in Dezel's situation.

 He could only hope he was okay.

Then he felt it too, that strong need to protect, to do something to change the situation, anything to stop being a spectator. It shook him like a heartbeat, a shift, a difference so slight he may have missed it.

Breathing deep, Sorey felt the floodgates open and he allowed them, "I think I'm ready."

Hearing him Lailah turned to him, hand covering her mouth. She had a glint of pride in her eyes as bright silver flame burst out from Sorey's chest to engulf him.

It felt alien, crushing, yet soothing. Like a comforting presence stroking Sorey's hair. Like something that had always been there inside of him yet was entirely new and foreign. Like a flowing tide of power surging, troubling yet familiar. It felt like night in winter spent in front of the fireplace under a woolen blanket shared with Mikleo, falling asleep reading stories.

It felt like home.

When the flame slowly dimmed into nothingness Sorey felt the weight of his wings on his back and couldn't resist looking over his shoulder in awe at the glass like feathers, white armor supporting them.

 The glass was tinged with sunset glow but had ocean blue hues if he moved them under the right light. Sorey extended them, discovering with growing excitement that they responded to him. Rose was right, two beats of wings and he would be hitting his head on the ceiling.

Retracting them against his back, Sorey looked at himself from head to toe. He had knee length armored booths hugging his legs, black leggings covering the rest of it. Small tassets replaced his leather belt, Lailah’s flame reflecting in their silver white surface, intricate carvings with orange hued enlightenment decorated it. He had white gloves on each hand, one reaching to his elbow while the other stopped at his wrist. Tight shirt the same color of the one he was usually wearing under the withe plate, showing off his muscles.

Sorey beamed as he spotted the Shepherd mark inked in gold at the glove’s back. The carved armor protecting his body was tight fitting, though not as tight as Mikleo's. A silver stone shone in the middle between a yellow orange outline. Sorey could feel the weight of a headband on his forehead and he had to wonder how it made his hair look. Absentmindedly he reached his hand to touch his feather earrings, finding their softness against his finger, Sorey allowed his elation to show on his face.

Seeking Mikleo’s eyes, he had a hint of a response. The young water Seraph was positively baffled, looking about to have his jaw hanging open in amazement.

Sorey tried to move, rolling his shoulders and still unable to believe what he was experiencing. He flexed his hand, his eyes falling to his sword as soon as he registered the hilt against his palm. It had changed too, now covered in silver white scales turning it sharp edged, yet the top of the blade was still as blunt as the wooden blade it was before, giving Sorey the choice.

His breath caught as light danced around him, small rivulets of raw energy coming into him from all sides, threads linking him to the Earth Pulse. He blinked and the sensation left him, leaving Sorey dazzled, his head feeling as light as a feather.

"I… wow." Was all he was able to say.

He heard the beast’s low growl and suddenly remembered where he was and what he had been doing. Sorey’s gaze searched for the creature, finding it cowering, stepping back in fear. Sorey sighed, his hold on his blade tightening. Killing the beast now felt a little pointless as it wasn't resisting anymore. He had killed animals before, hunted prickleboar but it was so different. He had no choice to kill back then, he needed the meat to eat and the hide to make things, and nothing went to waste.

But the beast was used to torture prisoners, given humans as meals and it was imprisoned here as well. Wouldn't it be better to just end things?

"Sorey, I can do it if you want." Rose said seeing his hesitation.

Sorey shook his head, setting his mind on its goal, "Maybe that beast is not responsible for the death it caused, but… I feel like I need to do it."

Rose nodded her understanding and stepped away, shoving her knife back in their sheath to show she wouldn't interfere, Sorey needed to do that himself. Mikleo turned his head away as Sorey cornered the beast, his heart was sinking at the idea that Mikleo could resent that Sorey would kill something in cold blood.

"Mikleo, I-" he opened his mouth not knowing what he wanted to say.

"It’s better Sorey, you are setting it free."

Mikleo was avoiding Sorey's eyes while the words left his mouth, but he didn't need to, the sound of his voice conveyed everything Sorey needed. He trusted Sorey. Killing the beast won't make him different to Mikleo's eyes. It was just like with the Dragon. Human's misdeeds caused pain and corrupted everything.

The bulk of his Dragoon form fell like a shadow over the beast but it didn't even try to defend anymore, lowering its body down as if calmed by Sorey's mere presence.

His eyelids clenched tight, Sorey lifted his blade, and then let it fall back over the beast’s neck. The beast’s body fell, impacting the ground. Bile rose to Sorey’s throat, he hadn't felt that way since he had killed his first boar and it was so much worse. He was blinded by a bright light again as his armor faded into nothingness. Now stripped out of it, Sorey felt the huge difference, his body weighing a ton.

Mikleo caught his shoulders before he could fall, his head falling against the seraph’s lithe chest. "Take deep breaths, there."

He showed Sorey how to regain his footing, helping him stand. Sorey matched his breath to Mikleo's, almost wishing he wouldn't stop touching him like that, his cool finger brushing strands of hair away from his sweaty forehead. Blood eventually flowed back to irrigate his brain and the spots dancing over his vision cleared.

"Taking Dragoon form for the first time is overwhelming. You did great, Sorey." Lailah reassured him. " Your armor was so bright you knocked our lights out." She said referring to her makeshift torches.

"It was fine," said Mikleo, "but even with lipstick a pig is still a pig."

"Hey!" Sorey poked his ribs.

Mikleo retaliated, fingers wriggling their way toward Sorey’s shirt.

"Guys, we need to find a way out, there is not much time left before sunrise."

Rose’s statement was harsh but true, bringing them back to the urgency of the situation. They separated, Mikleo's hand lingering on Sorey’s arm as he looked around to find an escape.

"Hey! You inside, drop to the ground."

Some minutes after they began actively searching for a solution a voice sounded from behind the far wall and the group exchanged concerned glances.

"Is that you, Zaveid?" Sorey asked, unsure. The walls thickness deforming the sound of the voice.

"So, it was you really you, Shep? Do you want out or not? Drop to the ground." Zaveid urged on sounding in a rush.

Shrugging he crouched low on the ground. His features pulled in a grimace Mikleo did the same before Rose and Lailah followed. Sorey’s hands instinctively fell over his head as an explosion shook the narrow cave, bits of rock falling everywhere around them while Sorey waited for the commotion to ease down. He opened one eye as strong gusts of wind blew in his hair.

Zaveid stood before the hole he just had dug, pendulum in hand, light from the hallway behind him making his features unclear. "It sure smells foul around here, not a place for ladies."

He stepped in, reaching a hand for Rose to take. "Dezel is not with you?"  He asked frowning as his eyes passed over the cave.

 Rose accepted Zaveid’s hand without much thought but she must have squeezed his hand a little too hard because Zaveid’s mouth had a slight twitch like he was refraining to tell something

 "We got separated." Sorey responded knowing that Zaveid’s concern was real.

Rose had moved to help Lailah up blatantly ignoring Zaveid’s presence as he tried to do the same thing. It seemed she was out of the patience needed to stand Zaveid’s nonchalant attitude right now.

"What are you doing here, Zaveid? Following us again?"

Shaking his hair free of pebbles and dust, Mikleo sent a scathing glance Zaveid's way.

"A thank you would be enough." Zaveid said, waving his hand in dismissal.

Sorey came to him and shook his hand, "Thank you."

Zaveid couldn't help the fond smile that graced his lips, and he certainly didn't refrain from ruffling Sorey's hair. "Was nothing, Shep. But maybe you could tell me what you guys are doing in a prison?"

"Do you know your way around here? We need to reach the top of the tower soon." Lailah intervened telling Zaveid only what he needed to know.

Obviously Sorey was the only one to trusts the wind seraph. He had trouble understanding why everyone seemed so wary of Zaveid. Yes he had attacked them, yes he had weird comments about women but even Sorey could tell he was a nice guy that liked a good fight. He could easily agree with that. Also, he just got them out of a bind so he couldn't be that bad.

Zaveid blinked and hummed under his breath as he thought of how to answer, "You aren't that far from the main hall, there’s an elevator here. You just have to climb the next set of stairs, turn left, then left again, then another stop of stairs, then to your right this time and-"

"Maybe you could show us the way?"

Mikleo flinched slightly, rubbing at his temple as his question came out a little strained like he was actually unwilling to ask Zaveid.

"Maybe? But would that bring me a thank you at least?" Zaveid leaned toward Mikleo.

The frown on Mikleo’s face deepened as Zaveid leaned further into his personal space, but he wasn't moving away holding his ground against the taller man.

"Yes, yes, we will thank you. Now can we move please?"

Taking matters in her hands, Rose pushed Zaveid away from Mikleo back into the lit hallway. Sorey chuckled before following them.

Strong altitude winds had rubbed the surface of the tower raw, the rock around them smooth and polished. Night was quietly being replaced by dawn, the first ray of sun threatening to reach over the horizon at any time now. The sky was casted in an array of gray colors, the coldest hour of the night having set a chill in the air.

Weapons in hands, the group rushed toward the open structure they could see in the distance, an enormous natural gazebo now used as a place for execution. It made a circle of rock columns and arches right beside the edge of the tower.

As they reached the gazebo, Rose used her hands to make a shushing gesture, making them hide behind the column of polished rock. Each column was large enough to hide three of them away from prying eyes and they formed two groups, Rose and Zaveid behind one, Mikleo, Sorey and Lailah behind another. It offered a better view of the inside of the gazebo.

They needed to strategize and observe the terrain before mindlessly rushing in. His back pressed into the column, Sorey heard the voice before he could see anyone.

"I despise people like you. How can the king dilute his blood with a baseborn whore like your mother was beyond me. Preaching about peace, hah! You certainly have guts. The war won't end as long as that usurper stands on the throne."

"Say what you want. I'm ready to die for my cause."

Sorey almost broke their cover when he heard the unmistakable noise of flesh against flesh, the smacking reverberating against the open arch. Rose’s hand on her knives was shaking, her teeth clenched tight but she gestured for Sorey to stay put, to wait for the right moment.

"Whatever, I can't wait for that Seraph to be here. At the first glimpse of sun your head will roll."

Risking a glance, Sorey’s eyes widened as he saw Alisha. She was facing away from them on her knees, her blond hair falling messily on her back. She was chained in the middle of the gazebo, hands tied behind her back, stripped of her armor yet as helpless as she looked, Sorey could almost see the scathing glance she was sending to her captor, her shoulders squared and back straight. Even facing death Alisha stood dignified.

A movement from the corner of his eyes caught Sorey’s attention. Landon was pacing around, sided by two guards. He was in full gear, stroking his neatly trimmed beard with his thumb and forefinger. Sorey looked  at the broadsword at his side, feeling a confident smile stretching his lips he looked at Rose to silently ask what she wanted to do next.

She was grimacing as Zaveid leaned toward her whispering something before she nodded at him. Rose held two fingers up indicating the number of guards she could see from her side, Sorey in turn tried to sign he was seeing two others on the other side.

Sorey was still unsure as to why Zaveid decided to tag along. They stopped asking questions on the way here, more urgent matters occupying them. Still, he was grateful for his offer to help in their rescue operation. Even so he had hoped to find the right time to ask some questions after making sure of Alisha's safety.

Then Rose’s eyes narrowed as she made wild gestures with her hand that had Sorey frowning in incomprehension. She made a face before face palming and signing more slowly. She pointed at herself then Zaveid. Sorey nodded that he could understand. Then she made a walking motion turning around her other hand stopping at the right side of it, the other side of the gazebo, finally she struck her fist against her palm and Sorey thought he had understood.

"I think she is telling us that she and Zaveid will attack from the other side," Mikleo said.

Sorey nodded at Rose, that’s what he had understood too, and then he moved his outstretched hand in front of him, trying to tell her he would be attacking from the front. Rose shrugged the gesture simple to tell Sorey he could do as he wanted.

"I will wait for your signal," he mouthed, not knowing how to sign that.

Rose responded with a smile before making her move, catching Zaveid’s arm she made them both disappear into the shadows.

"You won't be able to turn into a Dragoon so soon after your first transformation." Lailah whispered.

In the elevator, they had time to discuss that. Dragoon spirits were tied to battle rage Sorey couldn't fully grasp yet. He remembered that conversation with Rose when she told him that her master made sure she knew that. He glanced at Mikleo. Each time Mikleo turned into a Dragoon he made it look so easy. Sorey would have never thought it would be so hard.

Well, it was a great power and great power meant greater responsibilities.

"We won't need to, Mikleo and you could take the guards and I can take care of Landon." He whispered back.

Sorey had changed since the first time he had met Landon. Back then that man had threatened his family to make sure he wouldn't retaliate. Now Sorey wanted to show him properly that he could fight. The slight fear that may have seized his body before was a memory.

Searching Mikleo’s eyes expecting some form of protestation, Sorey found an expression mirroring his own feelings. Just like him, Mikleo was refusing to let fear dictate his actions. His hands where firmly grasping his staff as he opened his mouth.

"Don't do something rash. I'll be beside you if you need me."

"Like always."

"Later, boys." Lailah rebuked, a chuckle shaking her shoulders.

"Now! Sorey!"

The howling winds constantly sweeping the top of the tower seemed to shut when Rose’s voice sounded inside the gazebo. Echoes of surprise from the guards were drowned by the clash of metal against metal. It was all it took for Sorey to take action.

He ran, long strides carrying him toward his target. Landon's disbelief as Rose engaged his personal guard, Zaveid backing with wind arts was enough to delay his reaction when Sorey approached him.

He barely had time to take out his broadsword, parrying the blow right before it struck his stomach. The impact reverberated through Sorey's arm, his muscles stretching hard from the pressures he put on them, trying to pierce Landon’s defense.

"Rose! Sorey!"

Alisha's voice almost broke, filled to the brim with relief and a hint of worry but as much as he wanted to Sorey couldn't turn to give her a smile. He had to stay focused on his opponent

"You sure have some guts, boy." Landon taunted. "I might return to that village and enjoy some fireworks after all."

Sorey’s face was set determinedly as he moved out of Landon’s sword range, "I'll stop you right here."

Landon looked about to laugh but quickly regained his seriousness when Sorey moved swiftly across the battlefield. They exchanged a few strikes, Sorey moving right after his strike was parried to try and land another. It seemed amusing for Landon to see him struggle trying to take on a swordsman larger and taller than him.

But Landon only needed a quick glance around to see that his guards were disposed of one after another and his condescending smile was replaced by a more serious expression. Now that he had tasted some of Sorey’s skills, he was in no position to laugh at him.

He tried to block Sorey but until then his tentative was either deviated or evaded. Sorey was fast, instinctive, and used his legs to strike as well as his sword. His unusual and unpolished style was hard to predict and Landon started to be more forward with his attempt. He made a wrong move, raising his sword too high and Sorey found his opening.

Using his smaller build he ducked under Landon’s sword. Sorey’s wooden sword shone, lit by a martial art as he charged. Wind accompanied his piercing move and before Landon could react, Sorey was out of range on his other side. He reached a hand to cover his chest where the arte had cut through the leather of his armor. The man hissed, brow furrowing at the boy that dared touch him, besting him in sword fighting.

"You dare resist me! I trained all my life to ascent to that position and a piece of dirt like you thinks he can defeat me!"

Something started to shift in Landon, Sorey carefully took a step back as the man started to rage on.

He seemed to grow larger as his words became incoherent rants about war and power. Landon tried to insult Sorey, attacking him about his commoner blood or whatever was insightful for him but words and insult weren't the kind of thing to rile Sorey and he remained poised, breathing calmly, watching as Landon seemed to hold back on their duel.

But it wasn't Sorey's imagination because Landon was indeed growing larger, screams now leaving his wide open mouth as his muscles bulged from his leather armor, ripping his clothes open at the arms. His face changed, elongating. A snout replaced his nose and pointed ears grew on his head as dark fur covered his body. Landon’s sword clattered to the ground putting the gazebo under a loaded silence.

Then he howled, crouching as his claws scrapped the ground. He was not a man anymore but something half man and half wolf and madness was taking over sanity. His only eyes searched wildly around him before landing back on Sorey.

It was the moment Zaveid chose to intervene. His pendulum strings flew around Landon and closed up on his body restraining him. He fell to the ground and struggled hard to free himself, growling and biting, Zaveid hung on, giving Sorey the necessary time to recover from the shock of seeing the man turning into a werewolf.

"A Hellion." Sorey breathed out, eyes open wide.

Feeling shivers rippling his spine, Sorey’s hand covered his mouth. Again, a wave of nausea made him unsteady but he was quick to recover having retained Mikleo's lesson he took deep breath.

"He was the source of malevolence." Lailah said stepping beside him as she offered her support.

Now he understood why Lailah told him he would know. The wave of emotion he could feel coming from the man was stifling, it almost made him gag. He had to breath deep again because Zaveid wouldn't be able to hold Landon forever. Feeling the malevolence grow around him was like being plunged under water, but a water so cold and muddy that Sorey felt it penetrate every pore of his skin, his nose, his mouth. The silver white Dragoon spirit resting his in pocket was making him feel it all, making Sorey aware of the horror of turning into and hellion.

A warm cleansing feeling suddenly broke through the darkness that menaced to cover his eyes and Sorey turned toward Mikleo, the seraph’s staff still shining faintly from the residual mana. Mikleo was smiling gently, knowingly but his gaze held some worry, violet turned darker by the adrenaline coursing into Mikleo's body. The healing art was like a balm to Sorey’s soul, chasing the malevolence that tried to claw at his heart.

"What can we do?" Sorey asked.

An answer never reached his ears because his feet where already carrying him back to the writhing Landon, he heard something in the back of his mind like an echo, a forgotten memory of a voice singing a lullaby and he knew what to do. The weight of the Dragoon spirit on his palm felt natural and Sorey’s eyes remained on Landon as the stone shone brightly. It chanted calling on its sisters, blue, dark and red light joined silver.

Landon screamed. Bright silver flame licked at his body and soon covered him like a deadly blanket. He struggled hard, stranded into Zaveid’s binding as his inhuman screaming started to die down.

The flames eventually dimmed, all eyes turned to Landon’s human body.

Alisha’s sudden scream sent a chill running down Sorey's back. Hands clenching around his sword he turned toward the still bound princess. It was impossible to suppress the gasp that passed through his lips, and stood paralyzed again as he watched the scene unfolding before him.

A whole hand plunged into Alisha's back. Lunarre sported a large grin as he retracted it, holding a small round object in his palm. The lack of blood wasn't reassuring in the slightest as Alisha fell on the ground breath leaving her lungs. Sorey was too focused on Lunarre to see her wide open eyes and her shallow breathing.

"No," she uttered, knowing her voice couldn't be heard.

"So it was really hidden here, the Moon Gem?" Lunarre chuckled as he rolled the stone in his palm.

He held it in front of him, admiring the dark blue gleam of it and completely ignored his assistance.

"Lunarre! What have you done!"

Rose’s scream was unlike anything Sorey ever heard coming from her. It was filled with desperation, hatred and sorrow. Before Sorey could process what she was doing Rose was moving, passing beside him in a blur, knives ready to strike as she rushed toward Lunarre.

He wanted to stop her, to tell her not to rush senselessly into battle. Driven by her emotion as she currently was Rose would make a terrible mistake. But his words never left his throat.

It was weird the way time seemed to stretch in those moments, like his mind, and the instinct hardened by practices and training seemed to be what gave Sorey the time to react. But even then he couldn't, Rose had moved so fast he wouldn't be able to catch her before it was too late.

Lunarre had drawn a weird sword from his side, its glass surface was reflecting light like a crystal, catching the first ray of sun as he extended it to meet Rose's charge.

Only the sword met armor before. A jade green armor slashed through the middle. Blood poured out of the wound as its owner fell to the ground, glass feather spreading like a drape under him. The loud sound rang in Sorey's ears, Dezel’s name on his lips as he understood what happened.

Dezel, wearing his Dragoon armor had joined them too late. In a beat of wings, drifting into the ascending winds, Dezel had put himself between Lunarre and Rose.

It was impossible. Sorey couldn't understand why Lunarre’s weird sword could pierce through Dezel's Dragoon armor like it was made of paper. Nails biting into his palm he finally moved his feet, legs moving the remaining distance separating him from Rose and the others.

"Oh," Lunarre said as Rose fell to her knees, her shaking hands moving toward Dezel. He shrugged, "Well, I hope the master won't mind too much for this one. At least I have what he wanted." He clutched the stone in his hand and before anyone could try and stop him rushed out of the gazebo.

Rose screamed again, her knees buckling as she tried to stand and go after him. But it was useless. Sorey stood beside her when she fell back toward Dezel.

The armor was dissipating, leaving Dezel back in his dark clothes and Sorey moved his head away before his eyes could land on the gaping wound on his chest. Dezel struggling breath was the only sound filling the intolerable silence. His curtain of hair was parted on his forehead, his blank eyes staring at the ceiling.

"Lailah, Mikleo, someone you need to heal him."

Rose's choked plea wrung Sorey's heart, swallowing he watched as his friends shared uncertain glances before Lailah shook her head.

"It's no use."

Before Rose could protest, her body seized in anger, Dezel’s hand reached her knee. She grabbed his hand in the next moment, holding it firmly between both of her palms. Dezel smiled then, breaking off her hold to reach her cheek, with his thumb he traced her cheekbone.

"I chose you in the end, so don't cry."

"I'm not crying you idiot!"

But her voice cracked when she told him that and Dezel blinked as wet drops touched his face.

"Who would cry for you, you insufferable loner?" She stubbornly dried her eyes with her sleeve, leaning toward Dezel as she reprimanded him," You never helped with the shop, you kept to yourself, you were always displeased with us and…"

She choked on her breath tears coming back full force, sob shaking her whole body. Sorey’s hand lingered over her shoulder before he retracted it, not wanting to interfere with a moment that wasn't his.

"And you talked to me when I had nightmares, you stayed with me when everyone had left…you loved dogs and horses and-"

"I was happy. Still am… so don't become like me. Don't fall for revenge. I'll come back and kick your ass if you cry for me."

"Kiddo."

Sorey heard Zaveid mutter under his breath. He felt like an intruder, never having the pleasure to know Dezel like them for the short while they had spent together. Biting his lips, Sorey pried his ears away from Rose’s last words to Dezel, she leaned toward him breathing something that made him smile.

The sun was rising through the horizon, cutting through the cloud of morning mist as Dezel’s body erupted into green lights, fireflies carried by the gentle wind.

Dezel’s essence drifted in the sky, finding its way to the earth pulse.

 Rose wailed.

Chapter Text

Mind and body drained, it was a common agreement to look for a shelter. And Elysia was the closest, safest place. Though Mikleo knew Sorey shared his fear of rejection, his shame on going back home without their Gramps and again breaking the rules by bringing in two human girls, they were quick in proposing their home as haven. So, they led the group through the Aroundight Forest, eager and full of apprehension at the same time. They were going back home.

Their family would understand.

Expecting to be scolded, Mikleo felt the relief surging in him tenfold as he and Sorey both were brought into a collective hug upon stepping between Elysia’s gates, everyone wanting a turn in welcoming them back. It took Mikleo by surprise, his chest swelling and his eyes filling with tears of joy. And when the other seraphs looked at Rose and Alisha, saw their eyes and souls… that’s all they needed to invite them in with the promise of a warm bath and a meal.

There was no disappointment, only relief that they were safe and many embarrassing comments on their apparent growth. It was home, it was their family. They were loved.

But Rose had lost part of hers.

The group gathered into Zenrus’ home the evening after their arrival. Mikleo had asked for the meeting, remembering Dezel's stubborn refusal to talk about Lafarga and how it affected him, his shutting down on whoever tried to breech the subject and it made him think that Rose needed to talk, needed to be shown she wasn't left alone.

The tea kettle rested atop the dying fire in the center of the room, scent of cinnamon and chamomile filled Mikleo’s nostrils, easing his nervousness. They all sat in a circle sharing tea before the conversation would start. There was no use in being anxious about this conversation, as it only was up to Alisha to decide what she would do now, and whatever that was he would respect it. Glancing at Sorey beside him, jaw set and a thoughtful expression on his face, Mikleo knew he would follow and help Alisha and he understood where his anxiousness came from.

Alisha’s decision would shape the direction Mikleo and Sorey would take.

Several minutes of silence passed though, the event at Hellena Prison a fresh wound no one wanted to address. Instead Rose was nursing her cup of tea, her easy smile lacking sincerity since Dezel’s sacrifice. To her credit, she never once shed a tear, staying true to her promise to Dezel. Yet, Mikleo caught her as she glanced at Alisha from time to time, some hint of resentment in her blue eyes. Did Rose hold Alisha responsible for what happened?

"I met Dezel when he was still a child." Zaveid’s words cut through the silence, because the conversation had to start somewhere and he was offering, "But he didn't even remember me." Shrugging, he hid the forlorn look on his face behind his cup, taking a sip of tea.

He did it so slowly it became obvious he was allowing time for the others to ask, inquire, to demand precision, otherwise he would drop the subject.

Rose seemed to hesitate, but tilting her head, hair hiding her eyes she asked, "What was he like, as a kid?"

Zaveid smirked, warmed by Rose’s willingness to hear about Dezel, "Always in trouble. I saved him from a bunch of hungry wolves. He was all scrawny and small, but he already had some bite. Heck, he literally bit my hand when I lifted him up the first time."

It made Rose chuckle as she hugged her knee. Mikleo could almost picture the scene too and it made his stomach twist.

"That's so like him." her words muffled by the fabric of her pants, Mikleo struggled to make out what Rose had said.

Feeling that his memories had eased some of Rose’s tension, Zaveid went on, "He followed me everywhere after that, took a liking to me, I guess. He started to imitate my fighting style too. I'm glad he is-" Zaveid interrupted himself, fingers rubbing his cup when he corrected, "-was good at it. I feel honored."

"That's why your fighting style was so similar," Sorey stated matter of factly, "Though Dezel was more elegant than you."

That comment made Zaveid grin, his hand covering his heart, "That's because I'm wild, the untamable Zaveid. It's normal my fighting style looks rawer!"

"Dezel was crude, violent and kind of an asshole sometimes, too. And… I wasn't even sure he was letting me in," Rose drawled unable to voice her feelings.

Clearly, she remembered how Symonne had tried to make her believe Dezel was using her, that he never saw her as a friend and maybe she had let it seep into her heart, maybe she had believed it for a second.

Mikleo knew exactly what she was trying to do. She was trying to find his flaws, reasons to dislike him, reasons to forget her pain as a coping mechanism. Even though the time he knew Dezel may look like a speck of dust in the time he was beside Rose, Mikleo knew just how much he cared for her. Rose made it look like a distorted reflection of her relationship with Dezel, but she loved him too and she was hurt beyond his understanding. Though, he could grasp how her mind worked. He knew he would be like her if Gramps… no, he refused to let his thinking drift there.

"Yet he saved you. He gave his life to save yours." He finished.

Mikleo felt anger rise from Rose, her glare sending a chill up his back but he held on because she was unwilling to hear that, she was angry he took the words out of her mouth even though Mikleo had the feeling she would never had acknowledged them otherwise. He gave her all the compassion he could muster in this exchange. Eventually, Rose melted. The blue of her eyes glistening in the dim light.

"See, that’s what I was telling you. He was a selfish asshole." Her voice broke a little at the end, a found smile stretching on her lips.

"I may have something to do with that," Zaveid confessed.

Fishing in his pocket he brought out the Jade Green Dragoon Spirit. The stone shimmered in his palm as Zaveid considered the object.

"I abandoned him. I left him alone with strangers when I was the only one he trusted. I broke his trust. And he was at an impressionable age too, "he shrugged again as he clutched the stone, "He had all the right to forget about me."

Rose’s attention was on the Spirit stone, memories of Dezel, of Lafarga. After Dezel’s essence had dissipated, the stone had been there under Dezel's hat, and when Zaveid picked it up it sang, becoming alight as it appointed Zaveid as its new master. That thing couldn't even mourn its owner’s loss. But somehow, looking at Zaveid wearing Dezel’s hat like a living memento, just like Dezel wore it as Lafarga’s, looking at Zaveid holding the Dragoon Spirit… Rose had the impression that it had chosen Zaveid as per Dezel's will. A last gift.

"He… he gave that to you." she nodded at the stone.

"Maybe it's time for me to make amends,"

At Zaveid's eagerness, Rose hid her face between her raised knee but Mikleo didn't doubt she was smiling. Then Zaveid frowned.

"I still wonder where that guy found the Dragon Buster."

At that, Lailah perked up, "You mean… do you really think it was a Dragon Buster?"

Mikleo and Sorey exchanged a confused glance, hearing that name for the first time. It sounded grand, almost like an artifact from the Dragon campaign, almost like it belonged in legends. That promised to be interesting.

A nod from Zaveid and Lailah touched her lips with the tip of her fingers, deep in thought, " That’s why it cut through Dezel’s armor that easily… if he hadn't intervened Rose would have-"

"Dragon Buster? What are you talking about?" Rose interrupted.

"If I remember correctly," Lailah started, smoothing her dress as she searched her memories, "It's a sword made specifically to kill Dragons, though I can't remember properly who made it." She looked at Zaveid a bit sheepish of her lack of memories.

"I don't know either." he responded, shrugging, "I just saw a drawing of it once. I'm positive it was the Dragon Buster."

Sorey and Mikleo shared a glance again, mirroring each other’s interest for the knowledge of that ancient artifact. Zaveid knew so many things, but neither was ready to ask anything about gramps yet. The time never seemed to be right.

"Lunarre… what kind of plot is he weaving?" Sorey let out a weary sight.

Rose grumbled under her breath, sharpness glinting in her eyes.

Zaveid looked up, humming under his breath, "I did not follow him enough to know about that. That guy is a Hellion, he only can be up to no good."

I… I may have some insight on his doing." Alisha said her voice low and unsure.

 Since they had recovered her, Mikleo almost doubted they had rescued the true Alisha. She had lost the spark in her pale green eyes and not even once had he caught her smile. She had met Lailah and Zaveid with some apathy and had taken the news of their strange party being made of chosen ones rather lifelessly where Mikleo would have expected enthusiasm and lots of questions from her. The Alisha he thought he knew would have sought answers, would have wanted to know everything about their adventure. She didn't even ask about Feyrbrand.

Moreover, she wouldn't talk about what happened at all. Rose’s inquiry about how and why she had gotten caught had remained unanswered, only making her ire at Alisha grow.

It was about time she found in her the strength to share with them.

"Yes, we knew about that. It was obvious when he took something directly from your chest." Rose said harshly.

She was being unfair and Mikleo had to put his hand on Sorey's knee to keep him from telling her.

Alisha averted her eyes as if pained and flinched. Her cup of tea lay untouched in front of her. Sorey stopped in his track, hand balling into fists at his side, he glared at Rose. Many times he had tried to cheer Alisha, to make her feel welcome but each time Rose killed his effort with a comment or diverted his attention from the princess. He certainly didn't know what Rose reproached to Alisha, that’s why he did nothing to stop her but it started to hurt Alisha and that’s something he refused to tolerate.

"I think you girls need to have a serious discussion. I'll lend you my home tonight and I'll make sure you won't come out before your difference is settled."

His eyebrow raised, Mikleo looked at Sorey in disbelief. He quickly stifled the pang of jealousy that rose when Sorey gave attention to Alisha, Mikleo's body inching closer to Sorey. That was the last thing he expected coming out from Sorey's mouth. Then looking at Rose he felt a laugh bubble in his chest at her expression. She was positively fuming ready to throttle Sorey if he went on with his threat. But then she glanced at Alisha, her stance changing like she held the princess accountable for Sorey’s intervention. She sighed, "All right," she conceded, crossing her arms over her chest.

Gently, Lailah put a hand on Alisha's forearm inviting her to go back to the conversation. It seemed to be what Alisha needed because after taking a deep breath she pondered her words, obviously ready to discuss the subject.

"I should start by the beginning." Alisha said almost painfully.

She gave a start when the hand on her forearm squeezed. "It's okay. We won't use anything you could tell against you."

Alisha shook her head, "No, it's… I vowed to never talk about that to anyone," she twisted her fingers in the end of her ponytail, "Breaking that vow is necessary though, the moon gem is…"

It was like she was feeling the weight of all their eyes on her, but her hesitation was crumbling steadily and Mikleo saw a hint of inspiration back in her. It seemed that talking, forgoing an ancient vow that held her was helping Alisha come through whatever was plaguing her mind.

"The story of Serdio goes back to eleven thousand years ago, back when the Hellions were defeated in the Dragon campaign and disappeared." Her confidence rose as she talked, the words coming easily as the others listened without interrupting, "Most of their artifacts were scattered around the world."

Mikleo and Sorey knew about that, they exchanged a knowing glance, both reminiscing Gramps’ many stories of legendary weapons and objects. Sorey’s eyes shone brightly at the perspective that Alisha could have possessed one of them. He unconsciously leaned closer toward Alisha, enraptured by her story.

Feeling jealousy threaten to reach his heart again, Mikleo inched closer their shoulders touching.

"Those artifacts held Hellion magic in them, but only they could make use of it. One of them was given to Serdio, and for many years it was protected by the royal family, sealed inside the crown heir's body."

"But-"

Sorey started before Mikleo had time to shush him, he pinched Sorey's side, "Don't interrupt, it's rude."

Alisha lip twitched upward at that, making Sorey snap his mouth shut, again she took a deep breath, "But because of the fear that this thing could bring evil, because of the war the Moon Gem was sealed inside me instead. The Princess that was so low in the succession order that no one would suspect." This time she sported a full smile, though it was tinted in bitterness.

"Lunarre took Serdio’s sacred treasure from me,"

Lailah shook her head, "How did Lunarre know about that?"

"Someone from the council must have informed him, they were the only ones beside the kind made aware of that." She balled her fist, positively repulsed by the idea that a traitor could be sitting in her country government. "It couldn't only serve one person. The king's uncle, with the Moon Gem became the righteous heir to the throne and that would be the end of Basil."

Silence fell in the room, as Alisha’s sentence was pronounced. Now that the whole picture became clear in his eyes Mikleo could understand Alisha's mourning, she was mourning her whole country.

"But the war isn't over yet!" Sorey abruptly rose up from his seat, stepping toward Alisha, "We could still go talk to the emperor! Maybe he would listen to you! What if the council doesn’t approve of that? You don't need them. You are not alone when you have us."

Alisha's hand covered her mouth, "That is a lot of variables." She conceded, but even so she seemed happy, her smile reached her eyes now.

"Sorey, remember that we are Dragoon, we can't use our power to favor one side." Lailah rebuked but she too stood up beside Alisha, "But there is indeed no rule about helping a Princess sneak into enemy territory."

"I'm in." Zaveid said.

"That's a daring strategy. I hope we won't regret it." Mikleo stood up, nodding, "I can't let Sorey go alone and screw up your peace talk."

Everyone turned toward Rose, arms still crossed around her chest, she sighed her shoulders slumping. "I still need time to decide what I want to do."

No one seemed willing to make her change her decision.

"I'm forever in your debt." Alisha rubbed her eyes with her palm, "Let's go to The Black Castle." She said, loud and clear.

Stretching, Mikleo felt his spine pop and sighed. It seemed the village being short of a water Seraph had its perks because he hadn't been left alone since he had left Zenrus’ house. Everyone needed him for something or another and he was glad to help as it gave him the opportunity to spend some time with his family.

But it was starting to be hard on his tired body. Nothing went past Myrna and she noticed Mikleo’s exhaustion immediately. Not without another hug she insisted on the fact that she could manage to repair her house pipework alone before ushering Mikleo outside her house.

What Mikleo missed, as he walked back in the village seeking Sorey was Myrna’s glare keeping every other seraph away from asking him something that could put further strain on his tired body.

Night was falling slowly, painting the sky in an array of orange and pink hues, Elysia’s sky was lighting up with the first stars of the night. Mikleo looked up, his mouth stretching as remembrance of nights spent here watching the night sky and dreaming of seeing the same sky from the other side of the world. He had touched this dream with the tip of his finger and it was as wonderful as Mikleo had imagined it would be, if he could ignore all the danger he faced.

Now he could say with certitude that he liked Elysia’s sky the most.

Mikleo knew exactly where Sorey was, walking almost on autopilot as he lost himself in his contemplation. The moving moon emerged from between the mountain tops, its crescent smiling at Mikleo. Somehow Mikleo was grateful that the everlasting moon was hard to see on this side of the mountain, here he couldn't be bothered by the moon’s glare, its white surface taking away all attention. Here the stars could shine freely.

The grass crunched under his feet as Mikleo got closer to his prized goal. But it also told Sorey that he had been found.

A gentle breeze was ruffling his hair as he was leaning down on the grass, his green eyes were entranced as more and more stars became visible. He was supporting his head under one arm while the other was lifted in front of him like he could catch those little dots of lights that kept flickering into life. The sight of an unfamiliar fingerless glove on his hand, two feathers attached to it moving in sync with Sorey's hair, caught Mikleo's interest as he couldn't remember when Lailah had finally gifted it to Sorey.

"Someone said that there are as many emotions as stars in the sky."

Despite himself, Mikleo felt his lips turn upward as he sat beside Sorey. Together they faced the cliffs overlooking the mountain jutting out from a sea of clouds, like they did many times before. He was right to go look for Sorey if he was in a mood to wax poetry.

"Must have been from someone as hopelessly romantic as you are."

With a groan Sorey rolled over until his forehead touched Mikleo thigh. As close as they always had been Sorey's touch still brought heat to Mikleo's cheek, still he allowed Sorey to rest his head on his lap. Any form of protest was extinguished from his mind the moment he let his fingers card through Sorey's hair, the repetitive motion soothing him. Sorey sighed, the sensation mutual.

It was confortable, watching the sky darken before being lit up by a myriad of stars, doing nothing but indulging in each other’s presence. Mikleo had to admit he missed being alone with Sorey like this. And this intimacy was much more than he would have dreamed to have. He could touch Sorey all he wanted. He could kiss that serious expression away. Even if sometimes it felt like he was selfishly taking away Sorey's future.

With Sorey’s cheek resting against his upper thigh, Mikleo felt the shift when his frown deepened, the moment ruined by whatever Sorey was thinking.

"Do you think… that the Black Beast could be a Hellion?"

To say that Mikleo was surprised by the question was an understatement. His breath caught in his throat as he pondered Sorey's words trying hard for his expression to remain neutral when in truth he was panicking.

The reason for Sorey to bring the subject up was obvious with all they had discovered about Hellions and malevolence but Mikleo couldn't see just why after all those years Sorey would attach some importance to that. Mikleo wished to know why it was scaring him this much.

"You… why the sudden interest? You never bothered before." He still asked, hoping his voice won't betray his real state of mind.

He felt Sorey shrug against him before he turned prying Mikleo's finger away from his hair in the process. Though his head was still cushioned by Mikleo's lap, his gaze made Mikleo hesitate before resuming his combing motion. It was like he was seeing through Mikleo’s soul, seeing the fear buried deep inside and understood it.

"I'm not sure." He said, voice never rising above a whisper, "I guess I'm curious about it after all." Then the frown was back between his eyebrows, "The beast always felt like a faraway shadow in our life. Gramps told us he found us after one of the Black Beast attacks. And there was all those mentions of a destructive shadow in the ruins, and history books. I wonder if they are somehow related."

Mikleo listened quietly his fingers eventually returning to the soft brown strands in front of him. "It's just a myth though." He tried.

"Yeah, just like the Dragoon and the Hellions and yet here we are." He drawled, letting his words sink into Mikleo's chest, "Gramps always found means to avoid responding to our questions so we gave up when we became older because it wasn't that important but now…"

The lilt in Sorey’s voice was unexpected and Mikleo had a hard time knowing how he should interpret it. It was clear Sorey’s interest was more than just curiosity about a myth. Somehow Mikleo was under the impression that Sorey was suggesting that Camlann could happen again. An entire village wiped out in one night without anyone even bothering to remember it. It was like Camlann never existed after all. Mikleo wouldn't even dare suggest that Gramps could have lied to them.

"I-" he tried, quickly finding out that words eluded him.

Yet Sorey was still working his thoughts, continuing to share them with Mikleo,

"I mean… malevolence gives strange powers, right? So, it is possible that the Black Beast really was the destructive shadows mentioned everywhere. You remember the Virage, yes? It could also have been maintained alive all those years."

"But Virages aren't Hellions. They are not malevolent." Was all Mikleo could answer; he failed yet again to see where Sorey was trying to go.

Sorey groaned again before raising his hand to cover his eyes, "That's just another piece of the puzzle."

He sighed then before looking at Mikleo through his fingers, "You're right though, it's no use to dwell on something we can't understand just yet."

Mikleo had yet to ask how Sorey came to such a conclusion without him telling anything of significance but Sorey seemed to be appeased and he was willingly telling Mikleo he was right so.

"Glad to know you finally acknowledged that I'm always right."

Sorey laughed as he took Mikleo’s hand in his. Mikleo suddenly felt like drowning in the deft of Sorey's green eyes when he looked at him.

"We'll find him, Sorey. We'll find him and we'll bring him back home."

It was hard to talk more as Sorey’s hand found his nape before pushing him down, silently asking for a kiss.

It was weird in this position, their lips not quite fitting against each other but it was everything Mikleo wanted at this moment.

Iron taste reached Rose's tongue and she finally noticed just how much she was biting her lips. She couldn't help being nervous with Alisha a few feet away with only a heavy curtain separating them.

She had agreed to try and settle the difference she had with Alisha but it didn't mean she knew how to, especially as she had no real reason to be angry to begin with.

It’s just… the whole situation was infuriating, and Alisha wasn't making things better by being nearly aphasic and barely smiling. Like the gift of life they both had received from Dezel was nothing to her.

Moreover, now that she had time to think of it properly, Rose started to feel she was responsible.

She was the one trusting that Alisha would be fine on her own as they send her back to a snake pit, knowing that Bale was the home of those who tried to by the Scattered Bones services to get rid of their Princess. She should have seen it coming that Alisha would fall back into Sandora hands, probably betrayed by the same people.

And when she had hidden her treasure greater than her own life, their crime was worse than treason. Even so beautiful, kind and honorable, Alisha refused to talk about those who send her to her death.

Impossible to learn anything of significance from Landon’s mouth either. Upon waking up the man was so different that Rose had asked herself just how deep the malevolence could affect people’s actions, forcing her to see her and Sorey's role as shepherd in a new light. She was an assassin, which she had long come to accept but being a savior was foreign.

Landon had talked about how the emperor was a different man lately, one he couldn't recognize. How a man of honor like he was, so much like Alisha, would never have used a Dragon as a method of warfare. Yet, it happened, and Rose wondered if they would have to purify him too.

She couldn't tell Sorey that even so, it wouldn't end the war. It was infuriating really.

Alisha was a constant reminder of her own weakness, how she was unable to save anyone. Her black Dragoon Spirit was a curse, one she intended to bear alone a long time ago. Dezel had made her forget that wish, but ultimately her curse deprived her of him.

Would it be the same for Sorey and Mikleo, for Alisha would they end up dead because she cared for them?

Anger surged and Rose clenched her fist, making crescent moon shaped marks into her palm. She lifted her head when a fumbling noise come from behind the curtain marking the entrance to Sorey’s bedroom, trying to reign in her rage as Alisha stepped up in the living area.

Hanging her head low, Alisha continued to hold herself with the subdued way she had since they found her in Hellena and it fueled Rose’s irritation.

"I thought I could understand you, but our world is too far apart."

Rose nearly spat, rising up before Alisha had a chance to say something. But the Princess’ eyes finally glanced at Rose, incomprehension etched on her features.

"Wh-what- I don't understand what-"

"You are just like the pampered Princess they say you are. You know nothing of the people’s hardship. You understand nothing. Are you like this because Dezel sacrificed himself for you? Please, just how many people died for you already? Do you really think he did that for you to stay huddled in a corner and let the other take care of things instead of you?"

Her words flowed like venom before she could stop herself, deep down she didn't mean half of what she was saying but seeing the spark in Alisha’s pale green eyes, the way her back straightened at the accusation only prompted her to go further, just to incite a reaction from Alisha.

"You are right, you don't know me." Alisha responded harshly, putting a hand on her chest, "I don't pretend to be aware of people’s hardship like you say, but I do my best to protect them. I let Sandora capture me because there was no other way to save my fellow countrymen, because they were menacing Bale and Basil. I know people sacrificed themselves in order for me to live, and I was so ashamed at myself because I had to forget that in order to let myself be captured."

Her voice had risen as she explained that, stepping closer to Rose with each statement. "I trained all my life to be of use for my country, taking my lance and serving in the army but even so you couldn't start to understand how it was to abandon all that to know there was no other way but to give myself up."

Rose took a taunting stance, hand on her hips, "So you got captured willingly? You really thought that suicide was the only solution? For a country that didn't even bat an eyelash at your eventual death that was your choice?"

She was almost laughing, Alisha was her complete opposite. How she could have gotten herself to have a crush on this beauty was beyond her. Alisha was nothing but a shallow doll that couldn't make a decision for herself.

"Let me guess how it happened. You weren't ambushed on your way to bale, right? They asked you to give yourself up in exchange for a ceasefire and you did?"

Alisha blanched, her lip trembling with the clench of her jaw and Rose knew she was right. Alisha only did what she was told to do, however hard on her it was. She was exactly the kind of noble she despised.

With a breath Alisha seemed to melt, a stray tear ran down her cheek, then another followed, then another and she couldn't hold her sob anymore.

"I didn't want to die!" she cried, her sobbing faltered when Rose’s arm encircled her shoulder but she couldn't stop, "No one cared. Most thought the deal was fair, that my life was worth sacrificing and… I started to think so too. Even those knowing I bore the moon stone didn't protest! I'm nothing to them! I- my life doesn’t matter anyway."

Rose could feel the knot in her heart ease as she patted Alisha's back, one of her hands caressing her blond hair in a repetitive motion. It was like Alisha’s tears washed away her anger and resentment. Yes, she couldn't understand Alisha, she was the kind of person she hated the most, but she somehow felt that it could change, that Alisha was a jewel in the rough dirtied by hands that shouldn't have had the right to touch her.

Could she, with her curse and her bloody hand be the one to give shine to that jewel? Something in the back of her mind whispered that she wouldn't be alone to do so. She wouldn't ever be alone anymore even without him.

Clenching her eyelids tight as pain seized her chest, Rose let Alisha pour the worst of her tears on her chest and rested her chin on her shoulder.

"You are wrong. You matter to us. You matter to Basil citizens, I know it." She soothed, "Dezel didn't waste his life on you, on me."

It took a while for Alisha’s tears to run dry and even so her sobbing still racked her body ending up in hiccups. The girls were sitting on their knees by the fireplace when she could finally breathe properly and only then she smiled at Rose.

"Thank you. I needed to see the truth."

"It's nothing, I was a little mean to you. You couldn't really disobey your government," she flicked Alisha’s nose gently, "But you were so wrong to convince yourself it was the right choice and that you made that choice willingly. God, you got me so angry when you refused to acknowledge it."

Without meaning to Alisha leaned her shoulder a little against Rose's but Rose didn't move nor say anything to stop her. She was warm and her touch was more than anything that anyone gave her in a while. Alisha sniffed again and Rose feared she had provoked another crying fit.

"Was it… was it your only reason to be angry at me." Alisha asked, her fingers clenching at her clothes.

Rose shrugged nearly making Alisha fall away from her, "Partly, yes. But, to be honest I don't know myself why I felt so much anger toward you." she looked at Alisha, hoping that her smile could ease her words, she didn't mean to stir reactions from Alisha anymore. "It feels stupid now. I must have been frustrated at something and it morphed into anger."

Alisha nodded, "I can understand that feeling. I was the same when-" she trailed looking back at Rose, silently asking if Rose was interested in her story. Then she should start at the beginning. "When my instructor, someone that cared for me since childhood defected to Sandora."

"How so? Betrayed from a young age. Maybe we aren't so different after all."

Alisha smiled bitterly but nodded again seeing Rose’s point, "I miss her sometimes, even if she left me all alone in that snake pit, I was angry at her yes, but not so much anymore."

"I miss Dezel too."

For once Alisha had struck Rose right into her core, understanding exactly how she was feeling when she couldn't just yet. It was a just backlash from making her cry. Part of her anger was for Dezel she could see that now, even when she had mostly turned it toward Alisha it was there, and Alisha was right to make her address it.

Or you would end up like me was left unsaid but there right in the depth of Alisha's eyes.

"But thanks to everyone, thanks to Sorey, I have a purpose now." She turned her head toward Rose her hand hovering like she wanted to take her hand in hers, "Would you accompany me and try to make the King’s uncle see reason? With you beside me-"

"You have to know that there is a chance we'll need to end his life." Rose was direct, not coating her words in honey. The gentle Princess act had to stop, and Alisha needed to know that she could be true to herself in front of her.

Alisha’s jaw clenched but her eyes never wavered, "I'll accept what needs to be done,"

Sighing, Rose shook Alisha’s hand sealing their deal, "The Scattered Bones accept this contract."

Their eye contact only broke when an amber cracked loudly as it cooled in the fire place and Rose found out she missed the touch of Alisha's hand in hers. To console herself she could concentrate on the feeling of her shoulder still pressed together though she had to make do with clothing in the way.

" Thank you, Rose, for everything. I needed this."

"It was nothing really,"

"And we should thank Sorey for lending us the privacy of his home."

Rose scratched her nape and scrunched her nose, "You know, I think he mostly wanted an excuse to sleep into Mikleo's bed."

Alisha laughter chimed like bells.

Chapter Text

Dark clouds obscured the sky when Alisha saw Sandora's capital for the first time. She held the hood concealing her face and blond locks of hair as she tilted her head up following the looming imposing structure of the Black Castle at the end of Kazas main road. Even with half of it hidden in the stormy clouds it made her shiver in anticipation. The glowing green light from the inside seemed to be dripping in the clouds making the structure look otherworldly.

Eventually she had to turn her gaze away in order not to lose the group. They were careful not to attract too much attention, Rose providing the cloak she was currently wearing to hide her appearance. But three humans and three Seraphim were meant to stand out, all the more so, as one of the humans decided that proudly adorning a white mantle adorned with black unusual motifs was Sorey's idea of being discreet.

Alisha let out a sigh as she watched him admire Kazas architecture, bouncing from one square building to another, she couldn't blame him. Something in her chest moved and Alisha had a hard time determining if it was a bad thing, she could tell as Rose stretched a half smile at him that Sorey was inspiring that feeling in other people too.

It suited him, that white mantle, and Sorey seemed proud to be wearing it.

Alisha remembered Rose telling him how Lailah gifted that mantle to Sorey, and she couldn't help but to imagine the expression he must have had during the process. It always made her smile. Rose had to have a tailor fit the mantle to Sorey’s size, adding some custom part like leather and feathers that made it unique for him. Now he really looked like a hero from the ancient times.

She still had trouble believing he was chosen by a Dragoon Spirit even when she had the proof right in front of her eyes. The Celestial Record recounted tale after tale of those mighty warriors but as Alisha grew up; it started to be only that, stories and tales.

Now she stood between incarnations of those heroes, and hope surged in her chest.

The feeling warmed considerably when Mikleo caught Sorey by the scruff of his neck and calmed his enthusiasm with patient and rightful words. It was like he was scowling an unruly and energetic dog though he had the same glint as Sorey's in his violet eyes when he saw the dark material of the city walls, gaze lingering on the shop’s sign, their foreign design intriguing.

Soldiers were approaching them slowly and she had to remember that the plan, well Zaveid’s plan since no one had come up with something better, was to announce their group as a traveling circus. Shoulders tightening as she tried to pass by them, though not giving a side glance at the weird group, too engrossed in their private conversation. Well, Sorey’s unrestrained enthusiasm certainly helped to make them pass as mere tourist.

 Though she couldn’t help but frown after such a lapse in discipline from the city guards. It would have been unacceptable under her watch. This was making their approach of the Black Castle easier.

The city of Kazas is the polar opposite of the capital city Bale. Where her hometown was all warm and golden in tone, Kazas was darker, the stone cold slate and hard sandstone. The group after entering the gate went up a long, large and very straight street. It was outlined by close together buildings and though at first glance they looked the same, small and square, there were some differences here and there. Small nothings the inhabitants used to make their home feel homey.

Sorey found that fascinating, Alisha was more inclined to think it was suffocating.

Smokes billowed out of a few house chimneys,

Though it wasn't night yet, the main street was rather empty, with mostly guards in full gear lingering. Maybe the people were hiding from the approaching storm, but Alisha had a feeling that the soldiers were most of the town population.

Lailah’s heels and Sorey and Mikleo’s hushed conversation were the most noise they were making on their way to the Black Castle.

It had been harder to leave Elysia’s safety than Alisha thought. Even though she had made up her mind and was ready to confront the Emperor, her mind was often a whirl of thoughts and anxiety that she just couldn't banish. Going against direct orders wasn't in her nature, and her king had ordered her to agree to Sandora's bargain. Bale had surrendered without bloodshed because she told the population that she was to be held hostage.

Contrary to what Rose told her, she felt like she was the one betraying them. Wanting to listen to her own conviction, her own heart when she had learned to suppress that for years was not something she could do overnight.

Rose knew that, though she was still a bit frustrated with Alisha when she shut herself down a few times on their way to Kazas. Doubts and fear almost won over her determination and threatened to make her abort the mission to just go back home and wait for another order.

But her friends, now she was sure she could call them that, supported her, held her up and helped her see a brighter path.

Alisha could hope that not everything was lost.

"This place… it feels so desolate." She murmured words merely for herself.

For that kind of thing she needed to confront the Emperor.

Rose caught her words though because her blue eyes narrowed slightly and she had a slight change in her steps, like she was hesitating to formulate a response. Finally, she hummed under her breath, a sound of agreement.

At the main road end was the Black Castle entrance and the group had no choice but to stop as it became obvious it wouldn't be as easier to enter than Kazas.

The castle and the town were separated by a cliff, the bottom hidden in darkness where only a distant sound of water could be heard. A huge drawbridge was the only visible access and it was heavily guarded. And Alisha could easily see that wasn't the kind of easy going soldiers roaming the town.

"We’ll never make it past those guys. What are we gonna do, we couldn't just go and topple them off the bridge." Zaveid provided.

He was making a point there. Alisha appreciated the man. His continual complimenting of her person had diminished since Rose and Lailah had a sort of talk with him but Alisha was genuinely glad he seemed to think so highly of her skills.

Mikleo bit his lips, obviously thinking hard about a plan but coming with nothing. Sorey tilted his head to the side and crossed his arms over his chest, a thing Alisha saw him do when he was putting a situation together and trying to figure it out. They were both so intelligent and again she was feeling overwhelmed that people like them went out of their way just to help her.

"It might be risky but I may have something. Do you trust me Princess?"

Rose playing with the beads in her hair was an indication of her uneasiness, like she was regretting having them exposed to what she had in mind. Alisha couldn't understand why she asked for her trust, had Rose ever done something not worthy of that?

Nodding, Alisha responded naturally, "Of course, you have my trust."

It was impossible to determine Rose’s reaction though, because she immediately turned away, her line of sight following the narrow street siding the cliff.

"Follow me then."

They followed her through the square houses, streets dark and inhabited and Rose started to explain her plan. "I used to live here a long time ago, though the town changed a lot since Dezel and I lived here."

That explained some of her hesitance. It felt like a chunk of ice had lodged itself into the pit of Alisha's stomach as she empathized with Rose's hurt.

She heard Sorey’s appraisal when the narrow street gave way to a steep street bordering the cliff and there against the rock came the outline of wooden houses. Alisha stopped in her tracks just to observe the place, so different from the rest of the town. From top to bottom she could see people talking animatedly, mother and children taking away their hanged laundry. It was nothing like the orderly main street. Here it looked like the homes were makeshift, built on top of each other out of scrap wood and connected by stairs and ladder without road or streets all against the cliff wall.

"There used to be a fort here before the war. The poor made it their home."

There was a sort of pride in Rose’s words, like she was happy those people, though they were poor seemed to be breathing more freely than the people living on top of the cliff.

"There is such cleverness into their building. Look Mikleo even though the living spaces are all over the place everyone is given a home and room!"

There was no stopping to Sorey’s amazement and Mikleo seemed to start wanting to do a whole review of the slum with him. It was Zaveid’s turn to hold them down though, holding each of his hands on the both of their shoulders, he gathered the boys toward him.

"Ah, but there is not much intimacy. No one can bring a lady in with walls so thin. Unless it's the woman thing. There is that kind of people."

Mikleo pushed him away harshly, grumbling about lewd people and not needing to know that kind of thing.

Alisha blinked, trying to understand what he meant by that.

"It’s really different from what I remember. There was so much added."

This constitution made Rose frown. Alisha pinched her index between the thumb and index of her opposite hand. It was obvious those people were making their home with what they could gather, that was how poor they were, and more additions to the structure could only mean more families falling into poverty. This war had gone on for too long.

People were starting to notice them and mothers pushed their kids inside while more men came out of the houses. Rose was busy looking everywhere to see something she could recognize to see the rising threat in their stance but battle hardened as she was, Alisha stood on guard.

An older man approached them and Alisha’s hand found the short sword hidden under her cloak. Her lance was safely strapped on her back, hidden under her cloak but her dagger was better for a swift response.

"Mayvin!"

Rose exclaimed, immediately breaking away from the group to go greet the man. The strange atmosphere lifted before she could reach him and Alisha's body relaxed instinctively as she watched the old man observe Rose with a fond smile.

 Mayvin was an older man of large stature wearing a blue coat and yellow ragged scarf as well as a well-trimmed mustache and goatee over a cheerful looking face. Alisha could recognize some of the gear as things used in exploration, some of them having caught her attention in the shop of Bales.

"Long time no see, Rose." His grey eyes fell on the group and he smiled at them, "I see you made new friends."

Her dress ruffling past Alisha, Lailah stepped in front of them on hand on her cheek, "Much  time must has passed since the last time you visited for you to be unable to recognize me, Mayvin."

"Oh, isn't that lady Lailah? What a surprise to see you out of your shrine."

"You two know each other?" Sorey asked, oblivious.

Strong light flashed in the sky and soon the rumbling noise of thunder echoes around them. A drop of rain fell, then another.

"Come inside before you all end up drenched."

Mayvin led the group into a comfortably warm if not small house, offering them tea as he stirred the already filled kettle. Rose quickly explained that Mayvin is an explorer and a faithful client of the Sparrow Feathers, answering Alisha’s guess.

Lailah added that he often visited her shrine and that she wished more people like him would come because he was the only one not visiting her to plunder her ruins in a while.

After that it took only some seconds for Mikleo and Sorey to become interested in stories about the man’s travel. But Sorey’s puppy eyes failed this time, to Alisha’s astonishment because Rose had to stop him.

"I'm sure Mayvin has many adventures to share, but we don't have time guys. I mean… something is up right? It's been a while since the last time I came here but… it was never like this before."

Sorey’s disappointment was short lived though, the seriousness of Rose’s tone bringing him back to the matter at hand.

"They usually are more open to strangers but things with the middle and rich class have been rather tense lately, "Mayvin said, "There was a mutiny at Hellena Prison and rumor has it that the imprisoned leader of New Serdio’s party escaped and is hiding in the slum."

Rose seemed really thoughtful after that statement, "Did he now?"

Intrigued, Alisha wanted to ask for more precision but she didn't know if it was the proper thing to do. Even if Rose and Lailah knew that man, it was her first time meeting him and for all she knew he could as well be interrogating them.

"The New Serdio party? Should I dare be asking about what it is?" Alisha asked, unsure.

She felt uncomfortable with the way Mayvin looked at her, regretting having brought attention to herself even though the man's lips stretched into a knowing smile. She tugged on her hood, knowing she had been recognized.

"This war went on for so long. Even Sandoras are suffering from it and there are people willing to help those suffering through hard times because of the war. The only thing mattering for them is to see someone ending that cycle of hate and revenge young Princess."

Something hot bloomed into Alisha's stomach when she had expected to only feel coldness and dread at someone knowing of her identity. It erased most of the wariness she felt toward the old explorer.

"I hope we'll be of any help." She said.

Somewhere in her mind she was rejoicing that people from Sandora can agree with her it comforted her in her choice, making things more tangible. The Sandoras wanted peace.

"That's why we came through the slum, Mayvin," Rose declared, "I was hoping we could use the old tunnel to infiltrate the castle. You know, the one we used to smuggle food from the kitchen."

She put her hands on her hips, looking rather proud of her idea. Something told Alisha she could be as confident, as her heart literally leaped in her chest. A tunnel? That was wonderful news! However Mayvin looked unsure, stroking his beard as he narrowed his eyes.

"That old thing? I think the kids around here stopped using it after one of them was caught. Though the guards didn't come looking here so it could be they didn't close the other end."

Sorey shrugged, "It's better than nothing." Exchanging a glance with Alisha he added, "And we do need to hurry."

Mayvin only needed a little more coaxing before he moved some slate from the floor revealing a hidden trapdoor underneath. Rose opening the way, the rest of the group followed him and they climbed down a ladder into what looked like a cellar.

"This place used to be a fortress," Rose reminded again, explaining, "Some tunnels leading to the main castle were left and the slum kids preserved this one."

Alisha’s limbs were starting to ache as they were steadily getting closer to her King Uncle, her half-brother uncle. There was little chance that they could stop Lunarre from giving him the moon stone but they were in time to stop the emperor from using it and wipe her country from the map using their own law against them.

Into the cellar depths there was a well, with a contraption looking a lot like the lift they used in Hellena, cords and wooden beams coating the floor around it. It was a hole leading to more unknown for Alisha, more what if and doubt.

"Be careful down there. It's old and hasn’t been used in ages, some parts may have collapsed." Warned Mayvin.

Rose’s smile never wavered, "It's the best chance we have, so we'll take it. We'll be careful."

Mayvin’s expression remained concerned as he let Rose step near the tunnel entrance and check it.

"I hope we'll meet again soon. It would have been a blast to hear about your travels."

Alisha could tell Sorey had won the old man’s heart from the smile he gave back to the Shepherd, yet she noticed a slight flicker in Mayvin's eyes and it was hard to determine if it was either of mirth or malice.

The man helped them as best he can so far and Rose and Lailah trusted him so she had to settle for mirth.

"I'll resume my explorations soon, I'm sure fate will make our way cross again. So that's only a goodbye for now."

A gut feeling made Alisha think it was strange for him to be so confident about it and she narrowed her eyes at Mayvin hoping her slip went unnoticed in the cellar dim light. She let it slide for now because Sorey looked delighted at the idea and Mayvin added:

"You have the soul of an explorer."

"He sure likes to wander around aimlessly." Mikleo muttered.

Alisha almost choked on her breath as Rose called for her companions to prepare descending into the tunnel. She saw Sorey’s playful smile and eagerness to explore as Mikleo’s excitement won over his wariness. The way Lailah made sure everyone was ready and followed Rose’s instructions. Zaveid protests at being chosen to be the last one climbing into the tunnel, and most of all Rose’s self-assurance, the energy with which she lead everyone easily assuming leadership when it was her time to shine.

Somehow, Alisha felt like she didn't belong with them. They had lived things, fought a Dragon together and they all were chosen by Dragoon Spirits. She was only a knight. She had allowed her faith to waver. She had given up. But they all made sure she survived, they lifted her spirit, they offered her solace, offering to fight her combat in her stead.

The best she could do to thank them is to fight with them. They believed in her, holding her up when she needed to (it) and Alisha was willing to do everything in her power to reach up to their hope.

For the first time since she was a child, holding the chilled hand of her mother as she slowly passed away, Alisha wanted to do make someone proud of her.

"You are coming or what?"

When Rose took her hand to make her climb into the tunnel, Alisha could only feel the warmth of it.

The Black Castle was a wonder to behold. The tunnel ended into ruins that Sorey and Mikleo dated back from right after the Dragon Campaign and from then there was no end to their amazement.

The old ruin ended into the castle kitchen where the sight of magically powered lamps and technology they thought lost since the ancient time cut their breath.

"That's does feel like seraphic art." Sorey said as his hand lingered near a magically lit lamp.

"I can't feel any Seraph domain here." Lailah answered looking around in wonder, her eyes shining with all the strange green glow of the lighting.

When Sorey deplored that such powers weren't shared with the people from town. Alisha agreed with him, images of the people from the slum came into her mind. The unfairness of it made her frown as Rose bit back a curse.

"I came here once when I was a child, but it wasn't like that." She asserted.

But they hadn't had the time to dwell on this and admire the architecture. The group soon resumed their infiltration, staying close together and talking as little as possible. They had started to become good at that. Avoiding guard patrols made their progress slow but they couldn't risk to be discovered here and alerting the emperor of their presence. Most of Alisha’s chance resided in the fact that he would be alone in his apartment and they would speak freely with no one interrupting them.

She bit her cheek when the thought that it made her look like an assassin waiting for the night hours to infiltrate its victim’s chambers came to her. Well it may look like that, but she sincerely hoped she could reason the man.

Her heart in her throat, Alisha stifled her breath with her hand as two patrols could be heard coming from each side in the corridor which the group was currently walking into, their armored boots echoing against the tiled floor. Her other hand closer around her dagger as she started to come to the fact there would be no other choice but to kill them, hoping their fight wouldn't attract any more attention.

Too focused on the approaching noise, Alisha was taken aback when Rose pushed her behind a huge door, the heavy wood creaking a little as she closed it behind the group. Putting her ear against the door, held up her hand to make the group shut up.

"Oh, we didn't expect you for another few hours! This laboratory isn't usually the first stop for you newcomers."

The group turned as one toward the man, Lailah coming quickly in front of Rose to cover the weapon in her hand, she clapped her hands together, "Yes, indeed, science isn't usually mercenaries' top priorities. But we do have a bunch of youngster that absolutely loves this castle."

Alisha immediately eyes the room around them. The room was arranged around a central point, a strange contraption from where a column of soft purple light erupted. However the room was mostly dark as if the light was not one made for light. The walls were covered by row after row of books and she could feel that her wonder echoes Sorey's.

The man that greeted them nodded, apparently greatly satisfied with Lailah’s explanation and believing they were a group of newly hired mercenaries. He wore a weird hat and a long greenish coat.

"So you are here to see my research?" he asked

Sorey came closer to the column, siding with Alisha but before anyone could say anything else another man moved from behind the rooms shadows, "Or maybe for mine ?"

This one wore an ivory white coat and a sort of duel of staring started between the two men and Mikleo face palmed.

"Either way, we are pleased. We like it when mercenaries like you have interest in our research." Said the first one.

"Indeed. Recently barbaric suicidal attacks have become common, but if our research is successful we'll reduce the casualties from war." The second added.

Alisha was curious, part of her wanted, needed to know more about their way. If there was something to save soldiers’ lives she needed to know about it.

"Can you tell us more about it?" she asked before knowing what she was doing.

But the scientist looked pleased, "That white flame for example," he gestured toward a small working place where an oil lamp was glowing with a white fire.

Lailah gasped as she covered her mouth, a smile reaching her eyes as if looking at that fire was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen. Alisha saw the moment Sorey refrained himself to ask her about it as Lailah diverted her eyes away from the flame.

"It has a healing power." The scientist went on, unaware of the interruption, "And My colleague’s green flame can't be extinguished by water. A tactical advantage in war, if we got to put it to use."

That surely wasn't what Alisha expected. They were making weapons, they may save Sandoras soldier lives but ultimately, Basil soldiers will die from it.

 "It’s… not seraphic art?" She said, remembering Sorey's earlier interrogation.

"You don't need to know about those power origins. There are enough of us already involved in this accursed research." The scientist’s tone suddenly became hostile and Alisha took a step back.

"Yes, your job is to fight. There are many things we don't know about that power. If you get involved too much you might turn just like Mr. Noish." the other finished his warning gentler.

"He got turned into a dog and now we have to take his load of work. Plus he keeps telling us he always had been a dog. What a pity." The scientist shook his head.

"I see…this war really does need to end." Alisha said, once again confronted with the truth of the matter, "Can I ask one last question? I was wondering what that purple column is for?" Every bit of information she could gather might serve her later.

Rose made her know of her annoyance by taping her foot against the tiled floor. Lailah had to stop Zaveid from touching something fragile looking that nearly threatened to shatter on the ground. Alisha was pushing their luck by lingering too much with those weird and a bit creepy scientists. She secretly hoped Mikleo and Sorey wouldn't turn like them.

The first scientist seemed to preen as his gestured toward the column "This flame is the castle power source. The purple flames that drives the elevators and lifts. It really helps peoples’ lives here. That's the proper way to use such powers."

Alisha was surprised by the man’s expression, a mix between fondness and hope. It completely contrasted with his former introducing of potential weapons. She was under the impression that they resented making research that would kill her fellow countrymen.

"But war dictates the way it's used now." She mused out loud.

The other scientist hummed his breath, "Our research could be used for the happiness of the people yet we must obey orders and what we make could ultimately bring unhappiness to the people of Basil as well as Sandora."

" I must agree. This is indeed based on the calamity caused by the Dragon."

Rose stifled a breath as Sorey’s hand rose to touch his chest, Mikleo’s concerned eyes watching him from his side. Alisha could only empathize with what they went through, knowing only about Sorey's ordeal because of the words they shared, the things he agreed to tell her.

"The Dragon? A Dragon is involved in this research?" Mikleo asked violet eyes turned darker by the low lighting.

"My tongue slipped, forget what I said." The man answered.

The only thing stopping Mikleo from screaming at him was Sorey’s hand falling on top of his, their fingers intertwining when the seraph visibly relaxed.

"Now back to our work. Let me give you some special oil, it will help you move through the castle as it is a fuel for the purple flame. Some elevators won't work without it."

He returned back to his work station to prepare a container which Alisha gladly accepted. She couldn’t believe their luck as it will considerably help their progression.

Though strange, her meeting with those scientist put perspective into Serdio’s future and Alisha left the laboratory with a smile tugging at the corner of her lips. She could already imagine what those men could do if peace were to fall on the country. How they could heal the soldiers and the people alike. How they could power entire cities, have warm homes into the winter months and reduce loads on workers backs.

She could dream of so many applications to their research, yet a dark part in her kept reminding her how it all could be used the wrong way. The researcher had said so. Alisha wanted to believe in the good of the people, that they could make something right about this.

They had reached the castle’s eastern tower before long, where the living area is supposed to be if Rose remembered well and indeed they crossed soldiers training grounds and were now walking into carpeted floors, many doors leaning the wall.

The pitter patter of storm rain was the only noise they could hear, the silence of the night accompanying them as they neared their goal.

"Princess Alisha."

The man waiting for them at the end of the corridor had hidden into the shadow, visibly expecting them to come as he stepped in front of the group. They knew him. The last time they saw him he was a fallen man, still stricken after turning into a Hellion before being purified by the white Dragoon’s silver flame. That's why Alisha wasn't stricken by fear when Landon approached them.

"I was hoping you will come."

The fallen general glanced at the Princess, his lone eye trailing on each member of her companions.

"You cannot stop us General Landon. Now step aside and let us through." She said, hoping the man wouldn't notice her shaking hands.

But Landon sighed and allowed his weight to rest against the wall. "I won’t pretend I could stop you and I won't ask for forgiveness. I know I would lose a fight but…even so after everything I was hoping you could grant me one last favor."

The cold feeling came back in the pit of Alisha's stomach as she couldn't help but pity the man. Narrowing her eyes at him she said nothing, even as she could feel her companion's eyes on her back waiting for her reaction. Not moving in inch, she allowed Landon to continue.

"Her Majesty changed after the Emperor’s death."

She couldn't identify the feeling that seized her and she hated that, her control slipping between her fingers Alisha could only hear the blood rushing into her ears.

"The emperor his Dead?" she said, her voice sounding like she couldn't believe her own words.

 Landon nodded, answering her question by the positive," The Empress took over soon after and was already moving toward ending the war that robbed our sovereign of his sanity and life. But that was before the Seraph girl and the Foxlike man showed up."

"So Lunarre and Symonne were working together." Rose spat under her breath.

Alisha almost flinched at the venom she could feel through Rose’s words but as Lailah uttered encouragement to her friend, the Princess’ heart sank with the impression of dread. She wanted to stop Landon from talking, feeling that she couldn't bear to hear what he was saying.

"I believe that was their name. I started to feel unusual hatred for Basil soon after so I do believe they did something to her majesty too, instilling some demonic words that ignited her desire to vanquish… her willingness to avenge her husband."

He stepped closer to Sorey, holding a hand toward him like he hoped to touch him but couldn’t dare to do it, "You, I don't know what you did young man. But I hadn't see things this clearly for years. You and the Princess were able to make it here so I believe you might be able to do it."

Alisha wanted to put her hand against her ears. She wanted to stop hearing that man’s voice.

"I beg you, wake Empress Maltran up!"

It took all of her will to keep her knees from wobbling, but Alisha felt her breath leave her lungs. A murmur passed one of her companion’s lips but she couldn't hear it. After wishing so much that her ears won't work it finally happened.

Years went by since the last time she heard her mentor’s name spoken with reverence. Alisha almost wished Landon was speaking of someone else, a namesake. But she knew, somehow she had always known that Maltran would only settle for the best. Marrying Sandora's emperor fitted the image Alisha remembered of her.

A small part of her allowed a bit of alleviation to reach her when she thought that Maltran abandoned her for love. That She was left behind for something worth it.

But it was pale and Alisha couldn't help but think that she wasn't enough, that loving Maltran like a mother wasn't enough.

 It was utter, bitter and awful jealousy.

"Alisha, it's…okay we can take care of the rest if you'll like-"

"No."

She cut through Sorey's voice, the word more to herself as she stopped her morbid train of thought. Alisha had already fought that demon long ago. She stood tall with her hands behind her back when whispers mocked her at the court. She shut her resentment and remembered the exact moment when she choose to keep the good memories instead of the bad, keeping all what Maltran had done for her instead of her betrayal against her own teaching.

The Empress Landon was speaking of wasn't the mentor from Alisha’s memories because that woman died long ago and Alisha was done mourning her.

"Do you understand what it will imply?" She addressed Landon her voice firm.

His response came in a small nod, Landon's features darkening, "Yes imperial Sandora dominance in the war will end and we may end up losing to Basil…" then sighing, he looked back at Alisha.

"But it would be the same result if the Empress keeps oppressing her people in order to win. The people are suffering too much from this war and that’s not something either the emperor or the empress would have wanted."

"So there is men like that in Sandora army." Zaveid commented.

"You knew we came for that." Alisha answered still a bit harsh with the man.

It was understandable though, she couldn't just forget the way he handled her, threatened her and humiliated her because he showed remorse and concern for his people. Alisha could understand after some explanation what malevolence was and how it affected that man’s actions, but it was hard to forgive just yet. Hearing his words… it made the situation sound like the Empress was affected by the same malevolence.

But Alisha doubted it would make a difference when she could ultimately be confronting her teacher. She was already feeling the strain of hurt inside her.

"I'm relieved it would end with people as honorable as you." he fished in his garment rummaging through a pocket he silently handed a yellow stone to Alisha.

As she hesitated to take it, Rose took it into her palm and examined it, "What is this, it looks like a painted pebble."

Landon scowled at her disrespect, "It’s a key to her majesty’s chambers."

Zaveid nudged Mikleo not bothering to make his gesture discreet before whispering, "Why would a guy like that have such thing on him, huh?"

Wisely, Mikleo ignored him crossing his arms on his chest. Alisha failed to see Zaveid’s point.

She turned back to a sputtering and fuming Landon.

"Thank for your help. Sandora will thank you in the future too, I'm sure."

She meant it.

The group left Landon in the corridor, going through their new plan of finding Sandora’s Empress to reason with her. Alisha heard the man slumping and slide against the wall until he reached the ground. Her only hope now was that she won't be as defeated after meeting Maltran again.

Chapter Text

This late into the night and this far into the Black Castle living quarters, it was expected for the security to be lacking. No one from Sandora could presume that someone could escape its soldiers' vigilance long enough to come this far but even so Mikleo suspected that General Landon did more than give them a strange stone.

They didn't meet any more hindrance as they progressed into the depths of the eastern tower. They moved silently, solemn into the night with a weighing feeling hovering over their heads. Mikleo couldn't help but to glance at Alisha from time to time, seeing nothing in her expression but a set jaw and dulled pale green eyes.

When his eyes deviated toward Sorey, he saw Alisha's expression mirrored on his face and it was something he wanted to make disappear. As they strolled into the long carpeted corridor, windows and doors getting rarer the further they went, Mikleo placed himself between the two. And when before it would have been an act of repressed jealousy, a way for him to prevent Alisha from getting closer to Sorey in his presence, it now seemed normal, the best thing to do to make sure both of them knew he was there to support them both. Standing on Alisha's other side Rose met his eyes, acknowledging his effort and adding herself into it.

Like she finally felt the safety in which she had been encased, Alisha's shoulders relaxed ever so slightly and Sorey's fingers brushed Mikleo's.

They were doing it. They were doing it together. Everything would be fine.

In the end, the seemingly interminable hallway ended in front of closed large oak double door. Mikleo’s eyes perused over the strange figures carved into the wood wondering what they represented, but before he could start to reflect more on it, Rose made the choice for everyone and pushed the doors open.

After the dimness of the corridor, the brightly lit room behind the door forced Mikleo to squint, his eyes assaulted by the sudden light.

"What a wonderful statue!" Lailah’s exclamation cut through the silence.

Now that his eyes had adjusted to the brightness, Mikleo could see why Lailah was so impressed. The room was a demi circle that served as a display scene to the goddess statue carved into the far wall. It could easily fit a large group of people. The white marble of the statue was veined with gold and represented a beautiful woman holding an orb between neatly carved fingers. It stood proudly before them, towering over the room. The statue’s expression held a feeling of serenity while her hair was waves sinking into the wall and forming a halo around her head. The torches were lit on each side of the room reflecting on the marble. It was obviously a place of worship.

Ignoring Zaveid’s whistling and comment on how the statue was just his type, Mikleo still rolled his eyes as he observed the room.

Sorey was the first to step on the dais before the statue, his right hands naked fingers touching a small altar facing the goddess.

"It's huge," he stated and Mikleo rolled his eyes at his obvious observation, "Do you think it's one of the Five Lords?"

Lailah shook her head, "Could be, but it's nothing like any representation of Amenoch humans ever made. And it's obviously female but the others are all male, so."

Sorey tipped his head on the side, thinking.

"This place…" Alisha tried, "It's not in a public part of the castle. Though it's a bit extravagant but I think it’s a private Shrine. It means the statue could be anyone." Her eyes softened as she looked at the statue’s chiseled features, "Her face looks familiar somehow."

Rose stared hard at the statue after Alisha’s statement and shrugged when she obviously couldn't find such familiarity.

It wasn't long before everyone set on inspecting the room. Though they couldn't be assured that Landon was telling the truth, he did say it was the way to the Empress’ apartment. There must be a door somewhere or a discreet path away from prying eyes.

As he was inspecting the altar, Mikleo glanced at Lailah and saw the way her lips trembled.

"Did you see something," he asked as a bad feeling crept along his back.

She turned bright eyes at him, like his question finally ended her restrain, "Do you think staring at that beautiful statue too long make humans lose their marbles?"

It was said with such seriousness that Mikleo could feel the bubble of laugh rise in his throat, but as Zaveid’s snicker echoed, he coughed to hide his smile. It was just too bad for him to acknowledge that Lailah almost managed to make him laugh. However, as he returned to the altar examination, Mikleo noticed that some of the weight around them had alleviated. There was even the ghost of a smile on Alisha's lips.

"Guys, I found something."

Sorey called them back on the dais, it was a tight fit for five people but now everyone could see that he had removed a small part of the stone altar, revealing a circular hole underneath.

"Alisha, can you hand me the stone Landon gave you?"

Looking at the strange colored pebble one last time, Alisha handed it to Sorey who promptly inserted it into the hole. "That's it."

There was a loud clicking sound and the slot around the stone lit up, a faded gold circle enlightening the whole altar. Movement near the statue base caught the groups attention and everyone turned to see the statue robe move aside. The shape of a door, large enough for a person was now visible on the side of the statue.

It was an interesting sort of puzzle and it made Mikleo reminiscent of the sort of things like that they encountered while exploring the ruin near their home. Once it took them almost two months to discover a hidden door just like this.

His eyes caught Sorey and he knew he was thinking of the same thing. The hidden door led inside the statue structure, it was like walking into a pipe. It was large enough that they all could enter but it put Mikleo on edge. His instincts were telling him that they were nearing danger, the scent of rot and malevolence he had felt upon entering the castle was getting stronger. For Alisha's sake, he could only hope it wasn't coming from Maltran, though it took only one glance at her to gather that she had as little hope as him.

His eyes following the rose pattern on the floor, Mikleo had to be called twice before he noticed that Alisha was talking to him, Lailah gesturing toward the unlit lamp on the wall. As he was the one keeping the oil gifted by the weird scientist, he moved to light the lamp.

With a sight, he poured some of the oil into the container and almost jumped when a purple flame erupted. As amazed by the magic as he was Mikleo frowned at it. It rubbed him the wrong way that the manna coming from the fire was slightly off, altered for lack of better words. Although he was a water seraph and that Lailah was much more experienced than him when it came to flame, he could just tell how wrong it was.

The ground moved under their feet as a weird sensation settled into the pit of Mikleo’s stomach. It wasn't pleasant though it wasn't unpleasant either, but Sorey seemed delighted and lifted his head to see the ceiling moving closer to them. Except that they were moving up, just like with the lifts in Hellena.

Counting in his head, Mikleo knew when the ground stopped moving that they had climbed as high as the statue head. He was quick to exit the lift when a door opened, wanting to feel solid, unmoving ground under his feet.

"We must be behind the statue head." Zaveid provided, "We are almost on top of the tower. Makes one wonder what with Sandora nobility and high place, huh?"

Rose elbowed him playfully responding to him with something Mikleo didn't listen to. He knew Zaveid was trying to make idle talk but the feeling that they were stepping right into a trap remained strong in him.

He couldn't be the only one to have felt it, though Lailah and Zaveid kept joking and being irresponsible. Mikleo was tired, he felt like he was the only one paying enough attention to their surroundings.

They walked back into the room with the statue but this time they could admire it from the top. They had reached the ceiling. What Mikleo had thought was decoration was in fact a clever way to hide a spiral pathway behind an optical illusion. Thus, the pathway remained invisible from below.

 An earthy tang caught his nose, the light smell of earth after storm rain and Mikleo immediately remembered the last time he smelled something like this. His instinct acting, he moved in front of everyone, holding his arm up to bar their way.

"Wait, someone is here."

With the conversations shut and the noise of feet against cobblestone stopped, the tap tap of boots nearing was unmistakable. Summoning his staff, Mikleo felt Sorey's hand land on his shoulder.

"Mikleo, we-"

He ignored him and ran ahead of the group meeting their enemy.

"I knew it was you."

The petite girl lifted her head to stare back at Mikleo then at the group behind him before her blue eyes lit up in recognition. She opened her umbrella, completely indifferent to Mikleo’s hostility. Her face remained locked into a half bored expression, her lower lip slightly jutting out.

She sniffled. "The guys from Hoax? Get lost. I don't have time to spare with you."

She turned his back to him. Before Mikleo could question her behavior, Zaveid pushed him away and got closer to the girl. Her umbrella suddenly stopped at Zaveid’s nose, and it was only thanks to his quick reflex that he was left unarmed.

"Did your old age finally make you deaf? Leave."

Hand up in a gesture of peace, he tried to have a look at the girl’s face but she kept avoiding him. "Hey, hey Edna-chan, I wasn't expecting you here. Though you seem as lively as ever, I can't tell if I'm happy to see you so far away from your home. Your brother must be worried sick."

So Zaveid knew her? Edna reacted strongly to Zaveid's words. With a scowl darkening her pale face she rushed at Zaveid, umbrella open in front of her serving as a shield.

"Don't you dare talk about Eizen like you know anything." She said, each word punctuated with a jab.

Zaveid yelped each time she dealt a painful blow at him. Mikleo was unsure whether he should intervene or not. She was nothing like the fearsome warrior that tried to kill him at Hoax, now looking almost like the young girl she seemed to be, but Mikleo knew better, she was old and powerful. She could make the tower crumble with only a strike of her heel.

Still there was something in her stance, in her tone, rage and frustration rippling on the surface and Mikleo could discern a hint of redness on her cheeks. It was as if she was crying before they came.

Before Mikleo could stop him, Sorey came to assist Zaveid. With a blinding smile he waved at Edna. "Edna was it? You fought bravely at Hoax and its normal if you want to prevent us from going to see the Empress, but we need to talk to her. So, I'm asking nicely, can you please let us pass. "

Blue eyes widened almost imperceptibly before staring at him like he was nuts. Mikleo couldn't blame her as he rolled his eyes. Edna tilted her head.

"Are you dumb? Yes, either you are dumb or suicidal." She mumbled.

Sorey looked a bit sheepish, unsure and how to respond as the corner of his lips lifted upward so Mikleo answered for him before Sorey’s kindness brought him into trouble.

"Yes , you are the one who attacked us in Hoax ! You destroyed half of the fortifications and you even tried to kill me." Mikleo accused but not refuting her accusing Sorey of stupidity.

Ocean blue eyes seemed to cut through his soul as she watched him and it was almost like he could feel his blood freeze, "Half of it like you said. It's nothing those humans couldn't repair. Plus, if I truly wanted to kill you, you would have been dead before you could pull that little trick of yours."

"Told you so."

He heard Rose say under her breath.

"Wait, wait a minute. I don't follow you Edna. You attacked a human Village? Does your brother approve of that? Unless-" Zaveid drawled, brow scrunched like he had finally grasped something and held Edna’s shoulder, leaning toward her as he asked. "Did something happen to Eizen?"

Zaveid stopped her from deviating from the topic that interested him. Edna’s shoulders slumped. Again, she put her umbrella against her shoulder, twirling it.

"So you really don't know." she seemed serious, her eyes moistened as if she was on the verge of crying.

Zaveid shook his head, lifting his hand to scratch against his nape, "Hadn't seen him in years. He told me he was going to visit you. I thought it was good for him to stay with his little sister for a while."

Edna’s teeth bit into her lips, "He came back, but he was already like that. Black shining scales and all. He turned into a Dragon."

Her words echoed deep into Mikleo’s heart, and it sank when he saw how Zaveid’s expression turned sour. He grasped at his arm, fingers digging deeply into the fabric covering it. He knew nothing about the brother they were talking about but a seraph turning into a Dragon was a tragedy for every other seraph living on this Earth. He heard Lailah’s strong intake of breath at the news and could feel her mourning Edna’s brother as well. Sorey inched closer to him, supporting him and sharing his grievance.

He knew what such matters represented for Seraphs, Gramps hid nothing of their world to him wanting Sorey to feel at home with them, their tradition and customs were well known to him.

He knew there was no way to revert back into a seraph once one turned into a Dragon. It was obvious how Sorey was biting the inside of his cheek knowing there was nothing he could say to Edna even though he really wanted to find the right words.

"H-he-" Zaveid was speechless too.

"Miss Edna, what happened to Eizen after that?" Lailah intervened, talking low and gently as one would do with a wounded animal.

Mikleo feared he knew exactly where Lailah wanted to go with that question. His breath caught in his throat. Zaveid would have known, right? He would have known if Feyrbrand…

"He attacked and ate humans that came near our home, so I had to go and try to find a way to make him stay home and seal the place. They took him when I was away." she spat, venom sipping into her words even though her face remained impassible

Mikleo was under the impression she regretted leaving her brother alone if only to save people that wandered into their 'home'.

"You were very brave." Lailah said, her hand covering her heart.

"So… you are looking for him?"

"Even so, I can't leave him just like that. I knew that woman lied when she said she would tell me where he is if I helped her in this damned human's war. But…it was my only clue…" Edna’s voice was lowering, and her shoulders started to shake.

Zaveid groaned, "I'm sorry guys but," he grasped at his hair, mumbling under his breath as he stood between Edna and them, "I have to stay with her for a bit. You should go meet the Empress without me." It was costing him, not being able to keep his promise to Alisha.

"I don't need you." Edna grumbled.

"We understand, Zaveid." Alisha nodded at him.

When they started on the path again, though, Edna did nothing to stop them and Mikleo had to struggle with himself not to give her on last glance. Whatever it was, it concerned Zaveid as well. He would join them in due time, and if choices were to be made then they would take them.

Another door awaited them on top of the spiral stairs, obscured by a curtain. Pushing it aside, Sorey turned back toward Alisha.

"Ready?"

"I never will be."

He opened the way and followed quietly behind her.

Discovering that the curtain was in fact a tapestry covering a hidden door was obscured by the sight of the throne room. The group had expected to enter private chambers with the normal installation that would have been bedding accommodations, private study and other kinds of furniture one could expect to find in such a place, instead they stepped on black marbled floors.

The room had high ceilings, obviously pre-Asgardian era architecture, with stained glass windows that even in the night were casting colorful reflections on the ground. A small series of stairs, covered in a red carpet, was surrounded on both sides by the same strange green torches that lit most of the castle, only the flames were tall like they were water jets from a fountain. On top of the stairs stood the Emperor’s throne. It was massive black and ebony, the largest stained glass window behind it was all blue and argent tone accenting the moon light as it shone through it.

It reminded Mikleo of a novels setting, something grand, dark and somber screaming bad guy into the reader’s face, it made him flinch.

Alisha stepped closer to it, removing her cloak completely she let it fall carelessly onto the floor. The carpet muffled the noise of her feet against the floor, the rain had stopped some time before and the throne room was left in a deafening silence.

"Some of my guards have to be punished, they let a stray bitch come all the way here."

The woman that was lazily sprawled on the throne sat straighter, considering the group with a cold gaze before standing up, a lazy smile showing on her painted lips.

"But I would expect nothing less from my former student."

There was no malevolence emanating from the woman, which was incomprehensible because Mikleo had an almost instant dislike for her, like she was the one responsible for the wave of nausea assaulting him.

She certainly was beautiful standing tall on high heeled boots. The bit of protective armor she wore over her forearms and legs were much like Alisha's, a sign of her affiliation to Basil army once, yet it was more refined, more mature.

She was in full battle gear, her blue jacket covering her shoulder and tailing behind her like butterflies’ wings. Her white pants hugged her legs as a revealing white corset covered her midsection. The black choker on her neck moved in sync with her throat as she started chuckling. Mikleo couldn't properly read her intention with her long bangs of faded magenta hiding half her face, the rest of her hair being pinned into a curly high ponytail.

He took his place beside Sorey, ready to summon his weapon as a prickling feeling crept up the back of his neck. Maltran wasn't someone to be reasoned with, he just knew it.

Yet Alisha put a hand over her chest, "Lady Maltran, I Alisha of Basil came to ask for a starting of a peace negotiation. This war as gone on for too long. It is time to forget past dissension, stop and acknowledge that our people suffer too much from it."

Her voice carried, clear and strong within the high ceilinged room making Mikleo impressed by Alisha’s poise. Moved by her words, he squared his shoulders, taken with the optimism that this could actually work.

However, Maltran destroyed that feeling soon enough with the disgusted pursing of her lips, "Tell me Princess, are your precious country agreeing with that? Weren't they the ones that sent you off as an offer to be killed by the enemy, if only to win some time and prepare a counterattack on us?" she laughed quite strongly this time.

Alisha seemed to hesitate again, her fingers clenching and unclenching.

"You high-born are all the same," Rose stepped beside Alisha not able to let the Princess handle the talk when she was so unfairly attacked, "All on your high towers you stand afar and presume of your people’s needs that you couldn't even start to understand! We’ve had enough of your family feud! We want peace!"

Alisha’s mouth opened like she wanted to stop Rose but couldn't say anything. Maltran responded before she could do so.

The woman took a step closer, her heated gaze scanning Rose she scoffed. "So, the stray bitch brought a yapping runt to bark."

Rose didn't seem to be offended, but Alisha’s eyes were alight with fire.  

"Though, you are right little runt. It was indeed hard to rise to such a position when coming from a simple family of lesser knight. It was easier to attract jealousy. That must be why fellow high-born Knights kept throwing dirt on me and nearly had me killed. I only survived thanks to my late husband. Now tell me why I wouldn't want to eradicate such a corrupt system entirely, would you?"

"This isn't-"

Maltran went on, opening her arms as she dismissed Alisha's arguments entirely, "I'm about to give birth to a New Serdio!"

Alisha didn't allow Maltran to talk over her this time, "What you are doing his only destructive! You gave birth to sorrow pain and more anger! This unending circle has to stop!"

She was passionate, moving her arms along her words. Mikleo wanted answers as well.

"Sorey was innocent, yet your men kidnaped him too, if only to make Alisha suffer. How is it a good thing?"

"Mikleo?"

Sorey seemed surprised to see him rise. Usually Mikleo was like a fresh spring of water, calm and poised but now he felt himself like waves crashing against cliff. He wanted to fight, rise for the suffering of humans he had seen along the way, he wanted to do something because even if Sorey was the one prompting him all along, Mikleo wasn't as indifferent as he let on. He was riled that that woman could make past animosity and old battle pass before her people.

Maltran blinked, unfazed by Mikleo's outburst. "This one? That's was only something to do with Lunarre and Symmone’s ploy. 'Who could have thought I'll find the boy this easily, burning the country up was not necessary in the end,' the seraph said. "

Mikleo gasped unable to fathom Maltran’s thinking. Sorey was tense beside him and he looked at Lailah because she may have more insight than him but she was looking away, her gaze lost.

"What are they planning?" Sorey asked.

Maltran seemed inclined to respond, she shrugged, "All is in order for Emperor Diaz to return. Just like me, they only are my master’s pawn. All is in order for Emperor Diaz to return. So are the Dragoons…"

This attracted Lailah’s attention, it was the first time Mikleo heard her talk with such conviction, "Stop your nonsense, Emperor Diaz died in the Dragon Campaign and it was 11 000 years ago! He was human… a hero of humanity."

She couldn't know, right? They were careful. Maltran couldn't know there were four Dragoons standing before her.

"I don't care whether you believe it or not. It won't make any difference."

She suddenly came closer to them, stepping down the stair she stopped a few feet away from Alisha, "You thought you could defeat me in greater numbers, right ? Allying yourself with seraphs"

Shadows danced around her feet and she smiled at Alisha, but Alisha stood her ground bracing herself she caught the lance strapped to her back. Something erupted from the shadows, growing like a small tree toward Maltran’s outstretched hand.  Her nimble fingers closed around the lacked blue staff, extracting a large bladed lance from the shadow. The weapon was pointed right toward Alisha.

"I will fight you on my own."

A murmur of protest erupted along Alisha's companions yet Maltran acted immediately. Clash of metal against metal erupted as she pushed Alisha back in the middle of the room. The glint of Rose’s blade in her hands flashed as she held herself from calling after the Princess, now wasn't the time to distract her.

Still, Mikleo summoned his staff and he could see Lailah take her papers out from the corner of his eyes, for now they could do nothing but to be silent spectators as the Princess fought against her mentor.

It was nothing like the mock fight he and Sorey would do when training, nothing like when Gramps or the Elysians would train them. It was to be expected though, years had separated and Alisha was now a woman. She may have at a time held her master in her heart and it was obvious she still did but somehow their encounter, their talk before then had hardened Alisha’s resolve.

No hints of hesitation could be found in her stance. Maltran wanted to kill, but Alisha wanted for this war to stop and she would do everything for that.

Vicious blows rained upon Alisha who was taking blow after blow in the full brunt of her own lance. Grunts of effort fell from her lips as she side stepped to find an opening. Her moves were fluid and graceful, still managing to make Mikleo impressed after seeing her fight many times.

There was something different though, this time something he couldn't define as he was struggling with his want to cast a spell to help her. His fingers clutched at his staff strongly when Alisha yelped after a particularly fast strike slashed into her thigh.

Her blood glistened on the polished floor and Mikleo gulped. Sorey was struggling just as he was beside him, jaw tightening each time Maltran came too close to Alisha, yet he respected her will and watched, observing the duel.

After she had been struck, Alisha answered with an arte, jabbing fast at Maltran and forcing her in defense.

It was a dance of back and forth. Maturity against youth, battle adorned reflexes against the freshness and clever adaptivity of Alisha’s fighting style.

Rose jumped from foot to foot when she recognized one of her moves adapted by Alisha to fit her grip on her lance. She was holding her voice, wanting to scream Alisha’s name in encouragement. Only the situation was tight, the fight was hard and deadly, not the time to be frivolous.

Her breath heavy, Alisha gave everything to Maltran not giving an inch and the fight intensified as Alisha grew confident.

She knew that Maltran knew of her fighting style by heart, just like she knew Maltran's because she was the one who taught her. Her former teacher’s face was a mask of concentration but Mikleo could tell she was displeased by Alisha’s resistance.

Her eyes widened when she suddenly slipped, having forgotten of Alisha's puddle of blood on the ground. It was just a subtle flinch, something someone else would have missed with how fast Maltran regained her grip but for someone knowing her intimately like Alisha it was an opportunity.

Alisha's blade slashed through Maltran’s chest, ripping the fabric protecting her until the white  of her corset was strained dark with blood. Maltran breathed in then out, holding her clothes together as Alisha pointed the end of her blade at her chin.

Then tilting her head toward the ground, her hair obscuring her face, Maltran laughed. "You became strong without me to make sure you would stay at your place."

Alisha seemed perturbed for a second but she adjusted her grip, not biting to Maltran’s bait. She still had weapon in hand after all.

"Do you yield?"

Maltran’s smile was a vicious grimace, "Let me show you my master gift first."

Thunder clashed, Alisha barely escaping the purple lightning that struck where Maltran was a moment ago.

Mikleo felt it in his bones, in his core, the raw power suddenly emerging and malevolence, malevolence so strong and unexpected that he doubled over and clutched at his stomach nearly vomiting from the assault. He breathed carefully to regain his footing, Sorey’s hands squeezing his biceps.

Lailah was trembling beside him, chest rising and falling with the strain the malevolence put on her, "She was hiding so much of it." She commented.

But malevolence wasn't the only thing Maltran was hiding until now. The lance in her hand was transformed, shrouded in dark violet sky as the blade seemed to have been extracted from a Dragon spine.

Mikleo shook, bile threatening to rise in his throat even after he should already have adjusted to the malevolence level. His eyes landed on Sorey’s face, looking for purchase. The green lights were already giving an unhealthy glow to his skin but now Sorey was ashen, disbelief darkening his eyes. Mikleo wanted to reach toward him, forget everything else and just hide in Sorey’s arms, drown in is scent and in his conforming presence.

The Dragoon wings at her back were beating gently, making her hover above the ground. Her vest and armor had been replaced by the scaly bulk of an unmistakable Dragoon armor, violet with sky blue accents and a green gem at the center. The purple dragon headband on her forehead had the shape of a small crown parting her hair away from her face.

Nothing could hide the madness in Maltran’s eyes anymore as she lunged at Alisha.

Alisha may have protested but Rose and Sorey were already engaging Maltran back, Rose's black wings carrying her before Alisha was impaled. The backlash of two Dragoons colliding created a strong wind that sent Alisha down, her limp body sliding on the marble.

Mikleo moved on autopilot, barely registering Lailah’s voice that told him that Alisha needed healing as they reached her. He was still shaking, unable to concentrate on a proper art when he healed her, the job half down.

Biting her lips, Lailah’s warm healing arte helped Alisha’s eyes regaining focus. She looked at Mikleo, her hand rising to touch his shoulder in support.

He was afraid, so afraid, a desperation like no one making him ill. He was trembling so hard, ashamed of the bitterness, the resentment, the frustration growing inside him. Mikleo had enough of this cruel game of fate. He wanted answers, he needed answers but they kept getting nothing, nothing but a pipe dropped by a malevolent fox, nothing but this woman using Gramps precious treasure to fight them!

"It means nothing, Mikleo!"

Sorey's call pierced the haze Mikleo had set on his mind without meaning to. Raising his head, the sight of Sorey adorning his white Dragoon armor, airborne, sword pushing back against Maltran’s lance, Mikleo could breathe. In and out, in and out, his own Dragoon didn't respond yet. He shook his head. How could Sorey still deny that their Gramps must have-?

Jaw clenching as he pushed back hard, Sorey continued to encourage him, "We would have known it if they killed him! You know it! If they did something to him we'll save him!"

Yes he was right, the earth would have been moved by the loss of an old and powerful Seraph, the Earth Pulse would have cried. Gramps told them it would.

His grip on his staff tightened, beside him Alisha rose up on unsteady legs. The throne room was too large, the ceiling too high for them to follow the Dragoons' fight. They could only observe as Rose was pushed back violently.

Alisha screamed as Rose was struck by Maltran’s lance. The blade end was lodged between Rose’s shoulder guard and her chest piece. She was pulling hard on it trying to dislodge it before it pierced her flesh.

Then Maltran sneered, raising her hand. A sudden flash of purple lit the room just as Maltran used her own lance as a pole to channel magic lighting right into Rose's unprepared body.

 Screaming in pain, Rose had gone slack before Sorey could do anything, already plummeting toward the ground as her armor dissolved into shadows. But Sorey was fast, adjusted to his wings like they had always been there. The lightning striking him was nothing like Gramp’s when he was angry at him. Even though his muscles were a bit stiff from the residual energy in his nerves, he caught Rose’s middle and ended her fall before she broke her neck. Maltran was on him the next moment.

Mikleo didn't know he could make a column of water so high but apparently, it worked when Sorey was involved. Maltran’s dive was deviated and Sorey could lower Rose on the ground before resuming the battle closer to the ground.

Lailah's fire papers lit up the room like a fire ball dancing around her, and she was the fire sprit stirring them on. The deluge of fire on Maltran surprised her, raising her lance in defense she backed away from Rose and Sorey.

Healing Rose was easier than Alisha when his mind wasn’t in such a jumble, and she quickly blinked awake, flinching and complaining all the while. It was a relief, telling Mikleo that she was relatively unharmed. She seemed to calm down only after Alisha started checking on her as well

"We need to use the armatus!"

Her voice straining under effort, Mikleo knew that Lailah couldn't hold this level of fire arte much longer. But Sorey was a new Dragoon, still unused to his powers and ability, letting him go alone facing Maltran would result on an unfair fight.

The armatus, Lailah had explained to them was simple in theory, it only needed a Shepherd Dragoon and a Seraph Dragoon. It coupled their powers into one, granting the Shepherd the use of one Dragoon divine artifact. A weapon that could slay the gods according to Lailah.

But Sorey was the only Dragoon still fighting against Maltran. He was tiring quickly too, the Dragoon Spirit visibly draining him.

Mikleo closed his eyes, searching for the song, the call of water inside his soul, that link connecting him to the Great Tree roots. Nothing. He still couldn't hear his spirit.

"My Dragoon spirit is not battle ready."

He swore internally, cursing after that unreliable, volatile Spirit. What use was that power if he couldn't use it at will? Well, it was even written in the Celestial Records that the Great Lords fortune was hard to master having a will on their own that went beyond human and Seraph comprehension, but that was no excuse. Mikleo needed to turn, now!

Lailah’s answer came a little unsure, "I'm but... I haven't used my spirit in centuries." Her voice pitched up at the end.

Her concern was genuine. One single mistake could result in death. Dragoon was an immense power; it was only fair it came with downsides. Mikleo bit his lips, Lailah was distressed, and clearly she dreaded using that power again. Lailah was silently asking for Mikleo not to put her through that. Even so, she had admitted that her spirit was ready meaning she was battling with herself.

"Please Lady Lailah. Mast-…Maltran has gone mad, we must stop her." Alisha’s pleading voice seemed distant over Sorey’s grunts of exertion and Maltran taunt.

 As Lailah lifted her eyes, looking at Sorey’s blade slashing the air only to be met with a clever spear, Mikleo could see her will and determination setting, Lailah would be doing it.

Bright red flame erupted from her chest making her yelp at the sudden surge of power. Lailah’s armor was a beautiful lotus flower of fire, reminding of her dress. Her chest was covered in a bulky red plate with black and gold enlightenments, her pant was black but her armored belt trailed behind her in white tails engraved in red. The Dragoon Stones adorned her in green and orange. The glass of her feathers were the color of flames in a hearth, a light transparent red with blue and orange outline. Her hair was held up by the same pin she always wore but it was now glowing with green gems, the length was a braided bun on the back of her head.

Gloved fingers held up Fire pipers turned sharp and deadly, Dragons scales answering to her will.

However, she was breathing hard, her face twisted in pain as sweat ran down her cheek, she was holding her Dragoon form together, but it was costing her, Sorey unable to provide enough manna for the both of them.

"Call my true name, Sorey!"

Maltran retaliated at her call, scowling as she called on lightning bolt after lighting bolt sending them from her lance as she pursued Sorey. Then Sorey looked at Lailah, lips trembling as his green eyes lit up.

Lailah had never told them her true name, a sacred secret for Seraphim, something precious not to be shared lightly. Something only family and true love should know. Mikleo gulped as he watched Sorey struggle.

Then he heard it, resounding in his head, shared between them all.

"Fethmus Mioma !"

Mikleo lost his breath as Lailah turned into red light, it found Sorey and he changed in a flurry of manna as red as Lailah’s spirit. His white Dragoon armor was replaced by a lighter tighter fitting armor of white scales, gleaming like diamonds with a reddish twinge. Golden scales were treaded through it. Sorey's hair was now a long trail of blond flying behind him held up in a ponytail by two large red feathers; his earing had turned red too. His wings were attached to his back by gold engraved supports their glass feathers a transparent blue with red highlights.

This suit of armor was so light compared to the usual bulk of normal Dragoon armor, hugging Sorey’s chest and arms, not barring any inch of skin but all the same it was as if saying to the enemy, You would never been able to even get close to touch it.

The green of his pupil had turned lava red when he glanced at Mikleo searching for purchase as he went through an unfathomable experience. Sorey's chest heaved when he caught back his breath, Mikleo’s expression was of utter amazement, a flood of blood rushing through his ears and stealing any coherent thought out of his mind.

Somewhere on the deepest part of his mind he heard himself say that he couldn't wait trying the armatus with Sorey.

The weight of the enormous two handed blade seemed to fall into Sorey’s hands all at once. Mikleo swore the silver white of the blade reflected Lailah’s face before the sword caught on fire.

Maltran’s eyes were mad before, now they were crazed, red veins surging into the white. She was rushing toward Sorey before he could catch his bearings and start fighting her with this new power.

Her spear was her body's extension pointing right toward Sorey's heart. She spiraled, gaining momentum before falling upon him like a shrike pinning its prey. She screamed in her battle rage.

Sorey lifted the blade as high as he could, slashing the air in a circle all around him.

"Flamberge!"

The arte was given birth to, echoes of Lailah and Sorey’s twinned voice and the searing heat of a wave of flame burned through the throne room. It was too late for Maltran to avoid it. She could only brace herself in defense before she disappeared between the scorching flames.

Her pained scream was tainted with fear, not stopping before the flame had receded. She was still groaning when she fell to her knees on the ground, her armor disappearing in an array of static spark. She was looking at the ground breathing hard but still trying to rise and fight as her legs kept trembling and refused to support her.

Sorey too had landed back on the ground, the armatus dissipated and he fell on his behind, utterly exhausted, Lailah beside him was winded but was standing up.

"She… she wasn't purified."

Sorey said, sounding so sorry it seemed to hurt him.

Lailah shook her head, "She is too far gone."

Alisha moved, going toward Maltran her own lance gripped tightly between her fingers. She stood before her former teacher her face impassible but eyes betraying her turmoil when she looked at her mentor like this, defeated, struggling uselessly to pour her hatred upon them.

"This is the end Maltran. This war is ending now."

At Alisha's words, Maltran seemed to calm down, her hair obscuring her face anew she started to let out a low chuckle. Mikleo busy making sure Sorey ate the Apple Gel he gave to him suddenly turned his eyes back toward them, a shiver running down his back.

"Silly girl. I always hated that about you. It can only end in one way."

No one could have anticipated Maltran’s next move. She had grabbed the blade of Alisha’s spear tugging sharply on it to make Alisha lose her balance before running herself through with it.

"No!"

Her lips strained with the red of her blood Maltran hissed as she plunged the blade further into her abdomen, Alisha’s trembling hands trying to stop her and reclaim her weapon. Her eyes where unfocused as she met Alisha's.

"What you must learn now lies in the future not in the past." She told Alisha.

Alisha completely froze when Maltran weakly lifted her free hand to touch her hair, "Maltran." She breathed out.

"Don't let Lunarre make use of the Moon gem…they left to the west to Tiberoa. Lunarre and that Seraph Girl Symmone."

The woman was growing weaker, her breath labored as she slipped on the ground held by Alisha. Sorey opened his mouth before Mikleo could do anything about it.

"What of the Violet Dragoon Spirit? Our Gramps was its guardian yet you…"

Though his voice had been gentle, Maltran’s pain seemed to increase and the gentle light of Mikleo’s healing art could do nothing to alleviate it, her wound too deep, and the malevolence too strong for it to work properly.

"They…know everything. Go with her and find out…"

The way she suddenly exhaled, her eyes still open, took everyone by surprise. Alisha had to let go and step back as shadows claimed Maltran lifeless body. In the end she was consummated by the very darkness residing in her heart.

"May these weary bone find peaceful rest." Rose whispered, solemn

The group stood in referent silence after the throne room was left in the everlasting moon glow shining through the stained glass.

Then Alisha turned toward the others, her face set into hardened determination she touched her heart.

"I'm going to Tiberoa, I can't leave the Moon Gem in Lunarre’s hands!"

Then Rose stepped toward her, "Lunarre was one of mine, I can't let Dezel’s murder go unpunished. I'm pursuing Lunarre. "

Sorey looked at Mikleo, unsure about everything. Encasing himself in his own arms, Mikleo wanted some time away from the human world, he wanted some time to think. But here, now they were choosing their path. Sorey had made his choice, Mikleo could tell. Just like him he wanted answers, Lunarre was somehow linked to their Gramps disappearance.

"I may know nothing about why Symonne took interest in me or why I could hear that Virage voice but… I think…" His voice wavered but as Mikleo got closer to him his shoulder straitened, "I want to demand Lunarre answer."

Though his neck was a bit stiff, Mikleo nodded bumping shoulders with Sorey, "We make him answer." Gramps’ name was left unsaid between them, but it was there.

Lailah’s eyes shone as she clapped her hand together, "That means my journey isn't over either. I still need to know what is making the malevolence levels rising up again."

"I guess it means we are traveling together a little bit longer."

Zaveid’s voice seemed to boom through the large room as he finally rejoined the group. Mikleo wanted to sermon him on how he came too late to the fight but Zaveid yelped in pain before he could open his mouth.

He was speared by an umbrella, Edna behind him looking bored as hell.

"You all are now my appointed servants in my quest to find my brother."

Mikleo didn't stop the groan from leaving his mouth, massaging his temple as the inevitable moment when Sorey happily welcomed Edna into their group happened.

A gentle shine caught their gaze, stopping the group discussion as a small object fell from the air. It clattered against the marble floor rebounding and rolling before stopping shy of Alisha's feet.

The violet stone was shining albeit a bit dimly, flickering when Alisha picked it up.

"Do you hear its song?" Lailah asked.

Closing her eyes, Alisha listened before shaking her head, "It's like a faint distant wind."

"Well," Lailah touched her cheek, "Dragoon spirits do have a mind of their own. This one has chosen you…. yet it seems you are unable to use its power."

But Alisha smiled at the lightning Dragoon Spirit in her hand, "No, I understand what it wants. It just wants to make sure I'll answer to my master’s last wish." She lifted her head, turning back to the stained glass window behind the throne, "I will, master Maltran."

END OF DISK ONE

Chapter Text

PART II : The Red Fox Shadow

The first thing that hit Rose when they entered Fletz, the capital city of Tiberoa, was the town’s brightness. Everything was just so bright. The sun was bright, a ball of fire pouring heat over their head after days of travel on an interminable moor. Every wall was painted a bright white to reflect the harsh sun, protecting the inside of its rays. Seeing the city from afar was like looking at a jewel shinning over the horizon.

As she had predicted, Sorey and Mikleo had opened their book as soon as the wagon stopped in the middle of the main street. They started to owe and awe at the peculiar architecture of the town. The different forms of the houses were centuries of trial to finally archive the perfect form that will preserve from the heat, staying cool on this inside but also warm in the winter months. The lower part of the houses’ walls were adorned with blue mosaic tiles and the top had many small windows and a round roof. There was also lots of greenery, the proximity of water allowing people to tend to small gardens and vegetable patches.

Fletz castle stood tall into the northern part of the town atop a cliff, round blue roof scintillating in the afternoon sun.

Rose once heard that Tiberoan and particularly people from Fletz were fascinated by stars and astronomy and it reflected on the town decoration. Stars of all shapes and sizes were all over the place.

The main street was crossed by a small river, its water controlled by the wall of a channel that cut the city neatly.

Edna was the first to walk toward the first bridge she could find, a footbridge with blue tiled walls and gold railing. Even though her open umbrella was providing shade, she didn't step out from the large shadows that a nearby building projected over the street.

"I heard from the guard that the surrounding area is suffering from repeated raid from a Bandits guild. Patrol at night had been reinforced and they close the main gate"

Eguille’s voice attracted Rose’s attention as he reported the warning to her. She frowned as she helped him unload some crates from the back of the wagon. She hummed in thought,

"I guess it would be a bad idea to sleep outside, let's hope we'll be able to rent a room for everyone."

"I wouldn't mind a bed. And a bath."

It was Mikleo talking. Rose smiled at him. Who would have thought a mountain boy could be so polished? Even though they had battled against the harsh sun for a while Mikleo had stubbornly refused to let go of one layer of clothes, his jacket still closed tight against the column of his throat. Sorey was down to his undershirt and Rose had removed her vest, even Alisha had opened her shirt a little. It must be feeling sweaty and gross.

"Meebo is about to evaporate." Edna said never looking away from the stream of water under her feet.

"Stop with that nickname!"

Edna responded but Rose stopped listening after that, rolling her eyes, it was too hot to find any amusement there.

Edna had taken this habit of calling Mikleo little water lord Mikleo, Meebo for short and every time it didn't fail to rile Mikleo on. But after days of sitting close to them in a small wagon as they traveled, Rose was not as entertained as she was at first. She looked for Sorey, wanting to make him intervene before things could progress too far.

"Come on Mikleo, let's go drink something fresh. Hey maybe they have ice cream somewhere here."

With his hand around Mikleo’s shoulders, Sorey diverted his attention away from Edna's tease before Rose could ask him for it and she mouthed a quiet thank you to the great lord. Mikleo didn't protest, literally melting against Sorey’s shoulder as he tried to push him away and inadvertently showing just how much he really was affected by the heat.

"Hey wait! Let's go look for a tavern guys!" Zaveid joined them, making happy gestures with his hand at the prospect of alcohol.

Taking a gulp out of her canteen, Rose was reminded by the nonexistent taste of water that she wouldn't mind a fresh beer as well. Ah, but there still was some work to do, she had to go to the market place and see if she could install the Sparrow Feathers there. Her eyes wandered toward Alisha as she was conversing with Talfryn, smiling and insisting that she could help. Maybe they could go together.

Lailah exchanged a look with her before looking back at the boys wandering farther away.

"I better go look after them before Zaveid manages to get them drunk," Her long ponytail moved with the shake of her head, then she smiled at Rose, "I wish you good luck on your date with Alisha."

Rose spat her drink, choking on the water in her windpipe as Lailah trotted toward the boys.

When Rose looked toward the footbridge, Edna was looking right back at her, face blank but eyes smiling. A silence passed before she opened her mouth

"Once, a Normin told me there was a weird water Seraph fascinated by plants living here. I'm going to go meet her."

She didn't even give Rose the chance to answer, if there was something to say. It was easy to forget that Edna wasn't as young as she looked. She was very independent and was traveling on her own before Zaveid convinced the group to welcome her. Rose frowned turning toward her guild as they cooled themselves in the shade before turning toward Alisha.

"Do I even know what a Normin is?"

At this time and hour of the day, finding a market place still thriving with activity and clients was a pleasing sight to Rose. People were mingling about, conversing with merchants from all around Tiberoa.

There was quite a display of goods, through food to clothes and kitchen utensils. The sun was hot and shining atop their heads but the market place was well shaded. The market place was situated in a small round square, a blue mosaic representing the traveler's Wind rose shinning between the white pavements.

Most of the permanent shops have smaller stands outside their buildings to go with the non-permanent merchants who came especially for market day, it was a small space and all the available spaces looked to have been taken. Rose sighed because she had hoped for the Sparrow feathers to install a stand and sell some of their goods, but it was obvious they won't be able to today.

She looked at the guard on the market place far end, a large dark skinned man standing before a winding set of stairs. It was easy to guess it led to the infamous Twin Castle, residence of Tiberoa Royal family. Granted, if that hulking guard could be convinced to move, Rose could have asked for an audience with the king just to be able to sell some of her mabo curry buns here.

Shrugging, Rose’s eyes deviated toward Alisha. The Princess's presence beside her was her reminder of more pressing matters. Even so it didn't mean that she couldn't look out and try to find some rare goods and items that caught her eyes. A capital city was the ideal place for finding the most exotic thing she knew she could have and sell at a great price in, especially if her travels with the other Dragoons was to be pursued in time.

The man that was busy talking to that giant guard suddenly ran toward the middle of the small market place, brutally interrupting Rose’s train of thought

"Dammit! Prince Sergei is here everyone!"

Frowning, Rose looked at Alisha who returned her confused expression. The man’s intervention put the market into uproar. People were running around, and merchants fussed behind their stall.

"It's too sudden!" gasped a woman beside Rose.

A man uttered small apologies as he knocked into Alisha in his haste to leave the market, followed by his children. Alisha looked concerned, only Rose’s look made him cower and haste in his attempt to flee.

The guard cleared his throat loudly bringing back some semblance of calm before he moved aside. Behind him a poised man was climbing down the stairs.

The prince Sergei it seemed was a large man with short brown hair and a small neatly trimmed beard. He was wearing a red doublet lined in silver his clothes were in obvious contrast with the town people speaking of its wealth and high statue, his fairer skin stood out. A large silver white feather was protruding from his vest adorning his right shoulder.

He had an air on his face that Rose didn't like. Alisha seemed to want to go talk to him before reluctantly holding back herself as she remembered that she wasn't here on her kingdom’s behalf or on some diplomatic mission.

"I was so young last time King Strelka's family visited Bale, I barely remember him." She told Rose.

The prince stopped in the middle of the market place, the small crowd surrounding him at a respectful distance as he scowled at them. Putting his hand on his hips he looked around with a displeased air around him, brow furrowed in a grimace. Silence fell around him, the Tiberoan anticipating the Prince's talk.

"I heard somebody say 'Dammit' who said that?"

Whispers answered him. The town people quietly talking among themselves. Prince Sergei clicked is tongue in annoyance and walked close to the man before him. The man cowered in fear, looking down as the prince glared icy daggers at him. The prince muttered something to him before turning his attention toward a child. The child nearly started crying at the Prince’s prying eyes before his mother hid him behind her dress.

Sergei squared his shoulders, "I'm the Prince of this country! You shall show me respect!" he asserted.

His attitude was the worst, Alisha looked at him apathetically and Rose was torn between disgust and resignation, sometime rich people were just like that.

Alisha held her head down as people from the market place observed as the prince moved toward a few stalls seemingly appeasing the merchandise. He was inspecting a red apple, brows still scrunched in distaste as a young woman approached him carefully.

The long lavender robe she wore was not hiding the roundness of her belly, her hand protectively put on top, and she showed respect to her prince before addressing to him.

"Excuse me your highness, I-would you do me the honor of naming my soon-to-be born baby?"

She looked so happy asking her Prince, her eyes lighting up as he looked away from his purchase to acknowledge her. He pushed her away slowly, but not in care for her pregnant state because from the scrunching of his nose, everyone could tell just how disgusted he was.

"I don't think so. Children are such a pain."

The future mother's hands covered her mouth and her shoulders shook, "But-"

"You are disgusting, crying is so unsightly. Stop it."

But the mother couldn't hold her sob just like that, and no one in the crowd moved to do something.

"Since my husband was killed by bandits… this, this baby is everything I have left." Her voice was so quiet but the market place was so solemnly silent that it almost echoed.

Rose made her knuckles crack wanting to punch something so bad. This time it was Alisha’s hand on her elbow that stopped her even though she looked mildly shocked.

"He is a Prince. We cannot risk a diplomatic incident." She whispered.

"He is a prick." Rose whispered back.

"I'm not responsible for those bandits attack." The prince answered, crossing his hand over his chest, then with a dismissive gesture he added, "You bore me."

Without minding her he turned back toward the stairs leading to the castle retreating inside. The guard regained his place in front of the gate. It took some seconds after that for the town's people to process what just happened, someone stepping out to comfort the crying woman. Activity resumed as if they were used to such a display.

Alisha looked very thoughtful as she told Rose, "Was this man really Prince Sergei? From what I remember he was really sweet and chivalrous… Even in Bale people talk about him in such terms. I hope…" she clutched her upper arm before smiling at Rose. "Never mind. I often forget that you are a Shepherd too, you would have felt it if Malevolence was involved."

Rose nudged Alisha playfully, "I don't really correspond to the image you have of a Shepherd, right?  Sorey can stand in the light, the shadows suit me better."

Alisha looked a bit pained at that, but she eventually nodded agreeing with Rose, she inclined her head, "Should we start to ask around if someone saw Lunarre?"

She left Alisha wandering between the late shoppers and the merchants, going on the other side to start asking. Her eyes settled on the stand before the jewelry shop. They were selling the cheaper stuff outside, but the glint of a particular necklace had her wandering closer to it.

The bubbly girl behind the stall welcomed her with enthusiasm. "Oh, Good Afternoon miss. Something caught your eyes? If, I may, you have the most enticing red hair I have ever seen."

Rose tried hard not to blush, the girl’s enthusiasm and sincerity going right to the point but she could feel heat gathering on her cheeks. From what Rose had seen, most of Fletz habitants had dark skin and dark hair, and it was no wonder the merchant girl had interest in Rose’s most remarkable feature.

"I know exactly the type of stone that would embellish them!" she held to Rose a pair of citrine earrings, the stone cut in a star shape.

Rose barely held her snort, that girl almost had her, she seemed to be quite the seller, one that she wouldn't mind working for her guild. It wasn't every day that someone could nearly convince her to buy something on a whim.

The girl continued to talk, complimenting the stone property and its matching to Rose’s complexion and hair but her charm was dispelled completely when Rose’s attention wandered back to Alisha.

The Princess was milling about, asking passerby about Lunarre and the nerd's Gramps.

"Actually, I wasn't looking to find something for myself."

The merchant girl’s voice took a knowing tone after she followed Rose's glance. Now she wasn't trying very hard to sell anything.

Rose’s eyes lingering on Alisha a bit longer, watching her closely as she smiled and talked animatedly with people that never met her before. Yet, something was wrong in the way people responded to Alisha.

She wasn't pressing them in her manner and Rose knew how polite she was and it wasn't that the people seemed unhappy to respond, rather there was a sort of wariness in them. With the scene the Prince made earlier it was quite understandable but Rose knew it was something else and it irked her that she couldn't put her finger on it.

It was like they weren't willing to trust that stranger however sweet she was. Rose looked harder. Alisha's stance, Alisha's clothes, Alisha's armor…

Then it hit her. She nearly slapped her forehead for how it was obvious and how she could have prevented it.  Alisha was still wearing her full armor gear, transparent greaves catching the sunlight as she moved. She was still clearly adorning a crest from Basil on her back, nothing that those people were familiar with. It was normal for them to be wary of a knight from another country suddenly parading their streets.

A brilliant idea formed in Rose’s head, her fist hitting her palm as she made the decision that would put Alisha in the people’s good grace. The harder part would be to convince Alisha to go along with her.

She turned back toward the jeweler, a cattish smile spreading her lips "Say, do you have those in red garnet?"

The first bite of ice cream was a delight exploding on Sorey’s palate. He hummed in bliss before removing the spoon from his mouth when he spotted narrowed violet eyes looking back at him. Only when he turned his head to look back at Mikleo he met blinking eyes looking at him in confusion while Mikleo brought one spoonful of vanilla ice cream to his own mouth, his expression neutral as he took in the taste.

He may have imagined Mikleo’s harsh expression after all.

Sorey took another bite, this one not feeling as good as the first. "It tastes good but it can't compare to the one you make, Mikleo."

This time Sorey couldn't have imagined the glint of pride that flashed through Mikleo's eyes as the corner of the Seraph’s lips lifted.

"I guess vanilla extract may be harder to find in such arid region."

Mikleo looked at his ice cream in thought. Sorey nodded, also noticing that the vanilla taste was not as strong as when it would be Mikleo making it. He truly was an expert in making frozen dessert and Sorey smiled as he remembered being the happy tester of Mikleo’s baking experiment back in Elysia.

Still this ice cream was really refreshing or maybe it was the tavern atmosphere but Sorey was really feeling relaxation set in his bones. He might have been the one evaporating after all. The green stone booth they were sitting on was too large; he suddenly had the urge to sit closer to Mikleo.

In the heat it made it uncomfortable to hug or to touch for too long since some time after they left Serdio. Even in the nights in the moor Mikleo often pried himself away from Sorey’s arms because he was still too hot.

The tavern temperature was feeling nice, the sun passing through small glass windows never enough to make the place as stifling as it was outside. The glass ceiling light was concentrating a beam of sunlight to enlighten the whole room with smaller star shaped beams.

There was a round table in the middle, currently unoccupied. Round shelves were filled with colorful bottles of all kinds of beverages. Also there was astronomy and star themed decorations. Sorey was pretty sure that was a miniature astrolabe in front of them.

This time Mikleo didn't push Sorey away as he slid closer in the booth, their hips touching and their arms brushing. He sighed in contentment, realizing just how much he had been touch starved.

His lips brushed Mikleo's cheek and Sorey felt all his worry dispel. Having Mikleo accept his affections still felt new, an impossible dream after years of imagining how it would feel and never act on it. That’s why Mikleo pushing him away constantly made him fear that he could lose that. That Mikleo had grown tired of him after all.

He was glad Mikleo proved him wrong as Sorey felt his lips shift into a smile.

They soon resumed their conversation about legends on Tiberoa and information they could gather from the Celestial record. Zaveid’s voice boomed from time to time as he chatted animatedly with the only waitress, Lailah chastising him as she too talked with the woman. The proprietor behind his bar was casting weird looks at them, reminding the waitress to attend other clients as well.

They were the only four customers however, so the waitress continued to ignore him to talk with Zaveid and Lailah.

Mikleo was pointing at the obvious similitude between Bale architecture and Fletz as Sorey took note in his own notebook, arguing that some of Mikleo's observations were rather far-fetched because Fletz had very few similitude with Bale just like Elysia was nothing like Kazas. At the end, they both admitted that Kazas was the unique one anyway.

It was only when Sorey reached for his discarded pencil that he noticed a round white paw extended toward his notebook. He looked up to meet the roundest cat he ever saw, its round shape looking very soft and petable.

It was wearing a yellow bandanna around its neck; a yellow diamond shaped marking was on its forehead between two black dots shaped like eyebrow. Or maybe it was eyebrows? Sorey couldn't be sure.

Mikleo had stopped talking too, having registered the cat's presence as it observed the both of them with large eyes.

"It's rare, seeing a human so openly close with a seraph. We are few seraphim living in Fletz but we barely mingle with humans on a daily basis."

The cat told them, her voice sounding like a wizened older woman. Of course she was a seraph, even though non-human looking seraphim were even fewer than human looking seraphim, Sorey knew they existed.  Even though he grew up with seraphim it was his first time meeting one that looked like a cat. Now that he paid attention to it, he could even feel the calmness of her domain, the great tree roots connected to her.

"We were told that often." Mikleo responded.

The cat seemed to smile, the corner of her split lip lifting as her eyes gave a slow blink, and her short tail gave one jerk. "Hum, it's nice. Say, are boys like you interested in stars?"

Mikleo and Sorey shared a glance, searching the other for approbation. Sorey was looking at Mikleo with pleading eyes wanting to know what the cat wanted to tell them, but Mikleo’s eyes were sharp reminding him that they should get back on their mission soon.

Sorey's eyes pleaded, Mikleo's eyes glared. There was no winning this because Sorey knew Mikleo was right. He sighed in resignation.

"Study of stars sound wonderful, but maybe another time? We are actually looking for a man called Lunarre. He is pale faced and has long brownish hairs,"

And he may be implicated with Gramps disappearance but Sorey couldn't just tell her that.

The cat seemed rather displeased at that, her fur ruffling a bit on her back. "A 'man'? Are you more interested in a man than stars?" she shook her round head, her small ears flicking.

Mikleo looked really afflicted by her disappointment, "You have no tact, Sorey."

Sorey’s surreptitious tickle under the table made Mikleo’s body jerk as he stifled down the sound nearly going  past his lips, a deserved punishment because Mikleo was the one that dissuaded him from listening to the cat.

The cat’s laughter sounded like a purr mixed with a mewl, "I was just kidding. You should have seen your face!"

"Well, isn't that Lady Morgrim!"

Zaveid’s exclamation gathered everyone’s attention as he approached Sorey and Mikleo's booth, Lailah beside him.

Morgrim’s reaction was to hide her face between her front paws, letting out a distressed mewl, "I was hoping he wouldn't notice me," she told them discreetly, "As long as it's female this man would hit on anyone," taking a glance between her paws she considered Zaveid, "Maybe a few male as well."

Mikleo was shaking with repressed laughter against Sorey, Morgrim started to clean her ear acting nonchalantly as Lailah greeted her.

"Nice to meet you miss Morgrim. I'm Lailah"

Morgrim inclined her head respectfully.

"Hey, I heard you were talking about Lunarre? We had no luck with the waitress but maybe a wizened seraph like you would know something, right?"

Zaveid was leaning toward her, his elbow propped against the table as his hand supported his head. It seemed like an uncomfortable position, but he was eyes to eyes with Morgrim and there was no more space in the booth after Lailah sat down.

"Lunarre you said. If old Morgrim didn't hear about him he probably isn't in this town."

"We probably just missed him." Lailah reassured before dejection could find them.

"Yeah, maybe we should look into the next town." Mikleo tried.

Nodding Lailah added, "That would be Donau. We should get there tomorrow."

"Oh, he won't be able to go too far, all the harbors are closed because of the bandits. Young scums I would give them a piece of my mind if I was a thousand years younger."

"You are just as lovely as you were a thousand years ago."

When it came to ignoring Zaveid, Morgrim should have gotten a prize. She turned her attention back toward Sorey, "Now you have some time to learn what you want to know about stars, right?"

Sorey looked sheepish, his eyes darting toward Mikleo. The water seraph’s jaw was a little slack when he understood that Morgrim was aware of the content of their exchanges all along. She really was wise. It was so much like something Gramps would do that Sorey felt his heart constrict.

Breathing deeply he shoved that thought away to look back at Mikleo, resuming his pleading look. This time though, Mikleo was the one to sigh in defeat.

"I guess it won't hurt if we can learn something."

Lailah had a dreamy look toward the astrolabe on the shelf, "Stars are fascinating. A fire so huge they are seen from miles away never to be extinguished and they have different colors and shapes and sizes too."

Morgrim’s short ears perked happily, "You seem well versed already," she let out a sigh through her nose, "Unfortunately, I don't know more than you seem to know even though I like talking about it." Tilting her head to the side she seemed to smile again, "You know what! I'll introduce you to someone you'll like."

Lailah leaned closer her interest piqued, Sorey imitated her and the three looked about to share a secret with Morgrim. She stood up on her paws, "There is an astronomer next door named Masedra. He really is an expert. He is crazy about the Moon that Never Sets. I think he would tell you a lot about interesting things."

The shiver that passed through Mikleo concerned Sorey, turning back toward him he asked, "Are you feeling alright?"

Mikleo’s jaw tensed and Sorey knew he was about to lie, "I'm fine. I just ate too much ice cream."

Frowning, Sorey looked at the empty bowl beside him, it was finished some time ago, "Tell me if something bothers you, remember." He squeezed Mikleo’s arm in encouragement.

"Really? The Moon that Never Sets? You mean that strange star in the sky that stays day and night? We usually call it the Everlasting Moon in Serdio." Lailah’s interest piqued, she nearly jumped out of her seat to go find that astronomer.

"Yes. He is doing active research about the relationship between the moon and a monster called the Black Beast or Black Monster or the Reaper, I never remember that one."

This time Mikleo’s shiver made him clench his hand on top of the table, his finger digging into the wood, but Sorey’s interest was elsewhere, Morgrim having won his full attention.

"That should be really interesting."

"Want me to accompany you? He will open up if I'm with you."

Morgrim had already jumped off of the table, trotting toward the tavern door. Lailah was already up and following her

"I'm curious, we can rejoin the others after, I'm sure it won't take too long." She told them, waiting for their response.

Zaveid shrugged and followed Morgrim outside. Catching Sorey's arm as he stood up, Mikleo looked at him, a struggle of feelings showing in his violet eyes. Waiting for him to voice his apprehension, Sorey put his hand on top of Mikleo's as he closed his eyes. He stood up before Sorey could open his mouth, gathering their belongings.

"I hope you know what you are putting us into. Oh but listening to crazy scientist theories never goes wrong, right?"

Eventually, the four of them rejoined Morgrim outside. It was already getting dark, the sky taking the colors of twilight. The cat was sitting in front of the closed door of the building just next to the tavern. It was a small two story house with a round roof and a weird looking blue instrument on top. When the group approached she started mewing loudly.

The wood creaked as the door opened reveling a squinting old man behind. Blue and white striped robe covered his small stature. He looked at the group before letting his eyes fall on Morgrim, he carefully pushed back his glass on top of his nose. His gray hair was covered by a small hat.

"It's you again, Morgrim."

"Can you let us inside? My friends and I want to listen to your story about the Moon that Never Sets."

He looked at the group again, his eyes blinking at the enthused smiles from Lailah and Sorey, the mild interest from Zaveid. Mikleo was stubbornly refusing to look back at him. Morgrim was getting impatient, her fur ruffling a bit as Masedra hummed in thought.

"You never tire of hearing about it."

He sighed, gesturing for them to enter after him, "Get yourselves comfortable, I need to fetch some materials."

The room was reminding Sorey of his own home, in worst. Thought it looked kind of ordered, it was a mess of trinket, pots and tools. Zaveid nearly tripped into a rope laying there. Masedra was climbing the ladder in the middle of the room and they could still here his voice as he continued to talk and mumble.

It became evident that Morgrim came here often as she quickly settled on top of a crate, forming a huge white ball as she nestled herself in a cushion.

"I hope she didn't bribe you into coming here," Masedra’s voice resonated, "She likes stories and pressures me into telling her a lot. I guess refusing her pushed her to find clever means to force me to tell her stories."

Morgrim’s closed eyes and raised nose looked like an expression of smugness.

"It's not a bother at all." Sorey answered looking up at the ladder, "We really are interested by the Black Monster and the Moon that Never Sets."

"I have to confess that I'm getting interested too." Zaveid told an unwilling Mikleo, "Get me something to tell to impress the Ladies," he winked.

Lailah was about to retort something when Masedra climbed down the ladder with a book in hand.

"You certainly have peculiar interests. It's not everyday someone comes here to learn about my research. Come on take a look at this."

After some seconds of hesitation, the four of them huddled together to look at the picture books that Masedra held open for them to see. Turning the pages slowly and looking up for their reaction he started to explain.

"In astronomy something like the Moon that Never Sets cannot exist."

Arms crossed over his chest Mikleo contradicted, "And yet it's here. Everyone with functioning eyes could see it."

"You are right," Masedra didn't take any offense in Mikleo's questioning, "Stars travel the skies by catching the wind of time. But this moon is unaffected by time. It never moves day or night, hence its name."

Posing his finger on the book he demonstrated to them the course of the sun in the sky before pointing at the drawing of the moon underneath, the schema staying in the middle of the page. Then he turned the page showing them pictures of men and winged creature. Sorey’s back straitened when he recognized the picture.

"Those are representations of Hellions. We saw them in the ruins."

"It is usually how they are represented yes. Even though it's said magic allowed them to take many forms." He allowed them some time to look at the book before resuming, "It's said that counting one hundred and eight years the Moon that never sets will glow red."

Taking a sharp intake of breath, Mikleo swallowed when Masedra turned the page, showing them a new representation of a blood red moon. Looking at him, Sorey took his distress for interest in the story.

"I remember Gramps telling us that the moon glows red after a one hundred and eight year cycle, it's even mentioned in the Celestial Records. In some era there was a kind of ceremony that was forgotten."

Those words seemed to help Mikleo relax and he leaned back toward the book, "I remember too."

"Well, the most common known legend that said that is when a moon shadow will descend upon this earth to fill the world with holy bliss. However what we really have is…nothing but destruction and fear. The Black Monster."

This time it was Sorey’s turn to tense, "Does it really come every one hundred and eight years?" then he mumbled to himself, "Was it a red moon seventeen years ago?"

The next page had a drawing of a black winged shadow depicted through flames with the moon glowing red on the upper part of the picture. Zaveid backed up a little, looking dubiously at the picture.

"Why a demon and not a blessing as the legend say? What does it mean? That is the mystery I'm still trying to resolve." Masedra resumed.

He closed the book, ending the story telling and looked at his interlocutors for any questions.

"I never thought we would be able to get information about the Black Monster here." Sorey asserted.

It was really astounding after many infructuous trips to libraries in towns they visited. He looked back at Mikleo with a close lipped smile, they should have guessed those kinds of information would travel through unwritten legends. He touched the spine of the Celestial Record attached to his belt. Now was still the time to write it down.

"Was it useful?"

"Yes ! Don't you think so too, Mikleo?"

Mikleo rolled his eyes, "As useful as knowing where does the Black Monster come from can be."

Masedra looked pleased, petting a purring Morgrim beside him, "Very good. It is a pleasure to be helpful to young boys and a beautiful lady."

Lailah tilted her head casting a furtive glance at Zaveid, stifling the word "Young" behind her hand.

Bells rang, the noise echoing against the house walls. Masedra looked up toward the windows.

"Oh, I didn't notice it as gotten this late! I have to hurry or I'll make the Prince wait!" Masedra turned toward the back of the house rummaging into some kind of makeshift desk. "It's hard to eat only being an astronomer in a town full of it. I'm acting as a governor for Prince Boris as well."

They watched him as he gathered some books before stopping in front of Lailah, "Oh, if you want to take a look at the Moon that Never Sets you can go upstairs and look through the telescope."

He shook Sorey and Zaveid’s hands before being ignored by Mikleo. He was about to take Lailah’s hand for a kiss when the toll of a bell rang again making him jump.

"Now, I'm heading to the castle."

The door closed behind him, leaving the group and Morgrim into a stupefied silence. Morgrim stretched on her cushion.

"Night has fallen. We should get back to the others to find an installment for the night."

Lailah was right and it was with a slightly lighter heart some of his questions having found a start of an answer that Sorey bid goodnight to Morgrim. However, there were new questions that Masedra prompted in him. There was that lingering tension in Mikleo's body that kept growing as the astronomer told the legend and his conjecture.

He wanted to comfort him, telling him it was okay to want to know about the monster that destroyed Camlann, but how could he do that when it felt like a lie?

It was weird, it prickled at something deep inside Sorey, yet he wanted, he needed to know. It was difficult to admit that he won't stop searching for answers about the Black Monster even if it pained him.

 It was easier to tell himself that he would be able to stop if it hurt Mikleo.

Chapter Text

Flinching as another gust of wind brought sand in his eyes, Mikleo glared at the rocky wall surrounding them. He blinked the tear away from his eyes while pursing his lips at the seemingly unending expanse of dark granite, eroded and sharpened by millennia of strong winds.

It was the fastest way to reach Donau, so Rose had said since they couldn't afford the half a day it would take them to bypass the Barrens, but being the safest was another matter entirely. The Barrens were constituted mostly of small sand-strewn canyons and rock outcroppings. The winds blowing between the rocks drowned most of the sounds and even the shade provided was a welcome respite from the dry air and the sun, the rocky walls weren't high and it was the perfect settlement for an ambush.

Words of bandits terrorizing the region had reached their ears in town, vigilance was essential. Yet despite of this the group seemed unaffected by the potential threat, easy chatters being exchanged between their members, Rose and Sorey dominating the conversation as Edna tried to tease Rose about Alisha's new outfit.

The princess kept tugging on the white skirt, black high-tight stockings covering legs as her cheeks pinked at the attention. She was smiling as Lailah gave her approval. The blue and yellow feather adorning her assorted wide brimmed hat bobbed as she nodded, her hair now tied lower lying on her shoulder. Sorey diverted her attention with something else and she started twirling her fingers in embarrassment instead.

Mikleo had to concede to Rose that it seemed that replacing Alisha's armor with a lighter dressing that still allowed her to fight comfortably made her look more like the traveling diplomat rather than the invading soldier. Moreover, it looked good on her, but he wasn't going to tell her that

He was walking a little behind them. Having some time for himself had become something of a rarity traveling with seven others. Mikleo was content on observing them for now. Edna’s blond head beside Sorey attracted attention, and Mikleo let himself wonder why they had come to trust her so fast. How it took only few days for the girl, formerly their enemy he had to insist on that, to become an indisputable part of their rag-tag team was beyond him.

If only she would drop that habit she developed to pick on Mikleo he wouldn't mind. The birth of an answer was in process when she properly hit Zaveid with her closed umbrella, whatever he had said deemed inconvenient by three of the girls.

Now that’s another matter, but Mikleo had yet to wonder when he started to trust Zaveid too.

Sorey’s light laugh brought Mikleo’s attention back to him, his green eyes shining in mirth.

As familiar warmth spread into his body at the sight Mikleo considered how lucky he was for having his feeling returned by this man. It still felt so unreal to be able to caress that man’s cheek, looking into the depth of those eyes and expect a kiss that Mikleo had to pinch himself sometimes.

Sorey was the sun wearing his heart on his sleeve, attractive and kind. It was like he was radiating a natural something that pulled those he met in and make everyone love him. Mikleo didn't like the word charisma, but if he was being honest he wouldn't find any other way to describe it.

 It would have been easy for Sorey to have anyone he wanted, yet he chose Mikleo. He chooses being stuck with a childhood friend; chose to have a future with someone that belonged to his past.

A dark part of Mikleo was telling him that it was a phase, that being in a grand new world Sorey needed to attach him to something that reminded him of home, a comfort blanket. Sorey’s feelings would pass and he would choose someone else, someone new, someone he had yet to discover and explore. It was easy to burry that voice deep and lock it away when Sorey turned toward him, smile widening as he acknowledged Mikleo’s need for private time before resuming his conversation with Rose.

The noise that Mikleo’s ears caught was stifled, grain of sand falling between rocks, something that the wind could have carried from further away. Schooling his expression, Mikleo saw the slight almost imperceptible change happening in the group’s stance. It was Rose twirling the long tail of her dagger scabbard between her fingers, Zaveid tilting Dezel's hat on his head, Sorey's hand lingering near his sword among other things. Their apparently insouciant behavior had been an act they seemed to want to keep for a while longer now that they were aware of the unidentified presence. They had yet to determine if they were friends or foes.

Their answer came as they passed under a natural bridge over the canyon, three men waiting from them on top of it. The one on the middle leaned before whistling.

"What a nice bunch of ladies you have there."

The immediate glare he received from seven pairs of eyes seemed to cool him down because he held his hand up in peace, "Don't be like that! We aren't slave dealers, we only want the jewelry."

He said with the confidence that it would make things better. The men beside him laughed at his joke.

It would be easy to take the three of them, but as unintelligent those men seemed Mikleo doubted they would try robbing travelers while being outnumbered. Four, no five other men were still hiding behind the rocks around them, obviously waiting for the right moment to fall on them.

"Who are you?!" Sorey asked

Now Mikleo’s glare was directed at his companion and Rose’s nose scrunched. Did Sorey really ask that?

The man that looked to be the leader guffawed, the sound loud and unpleasant as he slapped his round belly, "Who are we he said! Did you hear that?"

One responded, "Did he think we are traveling doctors?"

The laughter spread around the bandits and some of those who were hiding couldn't help revealing their positions, loud throaty chuckles echoing against the rocky walls. Two of them Mikleo hadn't felt their presence.

Now Mikleo's eyes were wide in astonishment, if this was Sorey’s intention all along, it was brilliant. It was only the determined expression on Sorey's face that told Mikleo that he may have not planned that after all.

The laugher stopped abruptly when the bandits understood they had given themselves away. They came out of their hiding, surrounding the group from behind and from above. There were indeed ten men, three of them pointing crossbows.

The leader leaped from the bridge before them, and walked toward Sorey, "We are the one and only Malefore Gang!"

"They have no class." Edna said, closing her umbrella.

"Hey Varlhey, this one seems to have quite a mouth on her. I wouldn't mind taking her home!" One bandit said.

Varlhey as it seemed, was the leader. Wider than most of his men, he was nearly bald with only a brown rooster crest atop his head completed with a small beard. The other bandit’s comment prompted him to look at Edna, she held his gaze with a deadpan expression blue eyes cold as ice yet scalding hot. Mikleo felt his blood boil at the sight, itching for the right moment to end this masquerade.

"You've got weird kink." Varlhey answered his subordinate. He turned back to Sorey whom he seemed to have decided was their leader.

"We don't want unnecessary bloodshed, hand over the money and we'll let you pass unharmed."

Alisha stepped up, her gloved hand spread over her heart, "We have nothing to give you, but if you insist, we won't hesitate to use force."

Varlhey whistled again, "Those ladies have guts! Should have guessed they were the ones walking their little dogs!" he leered at Sorey and Zaveid, looking down on them, "Now stop yapping and hand over the valuables. It's as simple as that."

Rose sighed, "Just get out of the way. We don't have all day."

"You'll be the one needing a real doctor." Lailah said.

The grin on Varlhey’s face distorted as he reddened with anger a vein popping on his temple, "I'm done playing with you, those bitches angered me. Let's smash their pretty heads!"

The words had barely fallen from the man’s mouth that the coiling sound of the strings of Zaveid's pendulums rang followed by startled cries as two of the men holding crossbows had their chins colliding with solid ground, effectively dropping their weapons in the process. The third one was dealt when the rocky ledge ascended to strike him in the same fashion. Edna’s smile was the epitome of smugness as the man spit teeth before falling unconscious.

"You did anger them, man. I wouldn’t want to be in your shoes right now." Zaveid flinched as he stepped back, allowing the four girls to stand in front of the bandits.

Rose’s daggers were still in their scabbard as she brandished them as she wouldn't even consider dirtying her blades for these men.

The fight that followed was ugly, Sorey, Mikleo and Zaveid quickly coming to the realization that they weren't really needed. The girls were raining rampage on the bandits that insulted them.

Varlhey had engaged Sorey at first, sword against sword but Alisha had gently prompted him to draw back and wrecked the man herself.

Sorey had retreated near Mikleo, shrugging before watching the fight just in case his assistance was needed.

Pained groans and sobbing replaced the clash of weapons soon enough and the bandits that could still walk picked up their fallen friend before running away with their tails between their legs.

 Adjusting her barrette and smoothing her long hair, Lailah looked rather proud of herself when she turned toward them.

"Should we proceed? Donau shouldn't be far. I can smell the sea."

Remembering that Donau was a small harbor town brought excitation coursing through Mikleo's veins, he found the sentiment echoed as Sorey turned toward him.

"We are visiting a harbor town. I can't wait to see the ocean from up close!"

Before he could prevent himself he was enunciating all the things they would be discovering. Lighthouse, piers, enormous fishes, Mikleo could think of many things he couldn't wait to see. The way Sorey’s eyes shone at his suggestions made his heart flutter before a realization downed on him pressing heavily on his chest.

"But we'd have to search for Lunarre first." He reflected Sorey’s smile down turning at the reminder. The need to clarify his thoughts had him blurting things, "I mean, we've been chasing him for weeks and he must be somewhere in Tiberoa, Donau is-"

"Mikleo," Rose interrupted him, she had a distant spark in her eyes, "We won't let Lunarre get away. You and Sorey enjoying the trip a little bit won't change that."

Shoulders still tense, Mikleo had to let that sink in to agree with Rose. He despised that feeling that he was slacking off, but he had faith in Rose. It was easy with the way she nearly spat Lunarre's name to remember what he had taken away from her.

Clapping her hands Lailah tilted her head, "Well, that's settled. It's the best sea-son to visit Donau! "

The satisfied smile she had upon landing her pun disappeared as soon as it formed replaced by a concerned frown and the pressure on Mikleo’s chest increased tenfold. She patted her dress urgently, looking distraught before turning around with jerky movements, obviously looking for something.

When her eyes fell on Varlhey standing up further away for them, her fist balled and shoulders tensed.

 The man wasn't paying attention to her, barely out of breath he had visibly let his goons fight for him and was rather unaffected by their defeat. Moreover, he was holding a red glowing stone between his palms, admiring the shine under the light.

A fire seemed to burn under Lailah’s skin, her eyes burning with it, "You have no right to touch that. Give it back."

"This?" Varlhey nodded his chin at the stone, "Must be valuable. I'm keeping it for the inconvenience."

With a swift move he pocketed Lailah’s Dragoon's spirit and with surprising speed for a man his size and skill he avoided Lailah’s barrage of fire before bolting towards the stone walls. It all happened so quickly but Rose’s reflexes were sharp, she was the first to give chase, rounding the corner after him.

They found her at a crossroad, crouched on the ground and looking for traces the man must have left. Her face was scrunched in concentration before she closed her eyes with a sigh. Her lips bitten between her teeth she finally looked back at Lailah while touching the bead in her hair. "He left no tracks to follow. I'm sorry."

Shaking her head Lailah helped her up, "I let my guard down. I should have been more careful."

She was still so full of smiles, as if that man stealing a Dragoon's spirit was nothing to be worried about. Mikleo wanted to ask how she could be so carefree, he could barely breathe at the idea that such a powerful treasure was stolen from them like it was nothing. Was Lailah that careless? Was she unable to process the risks?

If there was something Mikleo had come to understand about Dragoon's spirit it’s that they wouldn't change master unless the precedent one was dead. Yet he wasn't reassured in the slightest. The pressure on his chest needed to be alleviated. He needed to let it all out.

"You are right. You should have been more careful. Aren't you the fire spirit keeper? He stole that from you so easily."

He was cold, frustrated about the situation and Lailah’s lack of answer didn't help, he racked a hand in his hair. The gesture made him feel his most precious treasure resting on his forehead, the circled holding the water Dragoon's spirit and his mind whirled. What if the thief had caught sight of it? What if it had been stolen too? He continued before someone could interrupt him

 "Now we have to go look for it and again stray from our goal. We need to-"

"You shouldn't talk like it was Lailah's fault. She wasn't responsible."

The way Sorey cut him off had Mikleo raising his head at him, ready to argue if needed although the expression he was wearing, lips pinched tight and brow furrowed, helped Mikleo understand the full depth of his own words.

Mikleo blinked then looked at the others as they shared something of Sorey's expression. Lailah was hugging herself, her arms crossed protectively around her middle. Mouth opening then closing, Mikleo finally registered what he had done. Guilt tripping Lailah was far from his intention yet that was exactly what he had done, projecting his own insecurities on her.

"I'm sorry. I can only hope that it won't delay us to much from pursuing Lunarre." Lailah said, rubbing salt.

"No, it… it wasn't really about that… I-" he sighed wearily, frustration taking over him once again only this time it was oriented at himself as it should be, "I'm the one that should be sorry. "

Rose punched his shoulder playfully, "We understand you are a bit worked up lately. Don't forget you could rely on us too."

"Don't let Loneleo give way to Meanleo, he isn't welcome." Edna jabbed his side with her umbrella to emphasize her point.

"I wasn't!" Mikleo protested.

Not bothered by the interruption Rose finished, "We're close to Donau anyway, so we might as well head there and find more about that Malefore Gang, right?"

The consensus was mutual, and although the weight on Mikleo’s chest remained cold and heavy, Sorey’s hand landing on the small of his back was there. And soon enough they would have news of Gramp’s wellbeing.

Donau was unlike any other town they went through since they had crossed Tiberoa borders The sight of the flowery village had everyone in awe, forgetting about Mikleo’s slip from earlier. Donau had the reputation to be the most beautiful town on this side of the continent. Mikleo was pleased to discover that this reputation was well earned.

The general architecture was the same as Fletz with the difference of the buildings being on the smaller size, but everything was covered in beds of colorful flowers. All of different shapes, color, and size, it was a wonder how so much could grow considering they just left a deserted wasteland. The different flowers fragrance mixed into a pleasing smell enhanced by the sea breeze.

The village opened to a town square filled with various garland of flowers, two small fountain pools of clear water delimited the entrance to a small park where Mikleo was certain lovers liked to meet. Yet there was no one in sight today.

Looking around him, Mikleo couldn't have enough of the sight. Almost instinctively, he sought Sorey out to show him how the town people had made a vine grow around the small pool of the fountain. A blue and yellow bird was looking curiously at them, chirping as it bathed.

"We-Welcome to Donau the flower city."

Mikleo worked hard not to show how the girl’s silent approach had surprised him. Her blue eyes seemed a bit impressed if not frightened, two flowers decorating each side of her long blond pigtails. She was holding a flower basket under her arm while holding flowers for Sorey to take in her other hand. With his hand on his hips, Mikleo tried not frown too deeply as Sorey accepted her gift.

Her whole face lit up when Sorey smiled at her and she turned toward Mikleo holding another flower for him. "Thank you." he said pleasantly now that he was reassured that she wasn't trying something.

"They are beautiful." Sorey said while smelled his flower

The girl's shoulder relaxed instantly and she let out a relived sigh, "Thank gods, I thought you were bandits for a second. Your clothes are so filthy with dust that I thought you might be!"

Now that her mind was appeased, she stopped talking and stepped away before they could talk or ask her any questions. Her step seemed lighter as she started to tend to the flower on the opposite side of the town square.

Feeling his pride just a bit insulted Mikleo turned toward his companion as they all took in that indeed they were making a poor sight, "Well, she isn't wrong."

"We are covered in dust. I wouldn't mind a bath."

Alisha dusted her bolero, the darker color hiding most of the grim covering it but her white corset and her skirt had nearly turned grey.

Rose was shaking her hair, "I have sand in my hair."

Now that she mentioned that, Mikleo could feel the itch of sand in his clothes too. He felt a bit sticky from sweat but he had gotten used to it by now. Beside him, Sorey was shaking his Shepherd Mantle creating a small cloud of dust around him.

"It (It’s) in moments like this I'm glad for Lailah's present. My clothes underneath are so clean you'd thought I washed them yesterday."

 "You have dust on your face though." Mikleo licked is thumb before rubbing it on Sorey cheek, determined to clean that speck of dust.

"Huh, Mikleo! That's gross!"

Though with Sorey struggling like that he only managed to smear it. The opening of Edna's umbrella separated them.

"Like you don't lick each other's face often enough."

Mikleo swore he heard Alisha cover her laugh with that cough, "That's not…"

For once, Mikleo stopped himself before he could fall right into Edna trap. He shrugged tugging Sorey toward the fountain instead. There he proceeded to ignore Sorey's protests and make him wash his face while pretending he was ignoring the others.

"That girl was quite rude. She only gave flower to those two." Edna commented.

"Maybe that because the pretty boys had her whole attention," Rose jested,

Zaveid pointed at himself flashing a smile, he leaned toward Edna, "That don't explain why she didn't give one to me."

A single of Edna’s fine brows lifted as Rose put her hand on her hip ignoring Zaveid.

"Anyway, maybe we could ask her if she knows something about the bandits."

"That's a great idea. Though she looked a bit jumpy, I think that only one of us should go talk to her at once." Lailah proposed.

Before Zaveid could open his mouth, the tip of un umbrella was pointed to his nose, the sound of his jaws closing was followed by the sound of Edna's boots crushing the gravel as she approached the flower girl, making sure to make as much noise as possible not to startle her.

Mikleo was observing the scene, looking as everyone stood close enough to overhear but far enough not to be imposing.

"Hey, what's wrong with this village?"

Lailah flinched a bit at her forward approach, even more when the girl turned back toward Edna with her basket in front of them acting as a small barrier.

"I-I don't know what-"

"Don't try that with me. We are not from around here so you don't have to play innocent. Plus we might be able to help, so spill."

The flower girl seemed he little confused by Edna's language. Then she looked at the group filling the small town square behind Edna. Her expression hardened as she put her basket down.

"That's because the Malefore Gang is harassing us."

"See, that wasn't so hard."

Sometimes with Edna’s prickly exterior and her sharp tongue, it was easy to forget that she actually cared. It was a rare sight but one Mikleo had observed a few time on their way to Fletz. Now was one of those moments while Edna nodded quietly to everything the girl said about the bandits' behaviors. Marta, she had presented herself.

Edna mumbled something that he couldn't properly hear, but then Marta was looking at each of them in turn, a frown deepening as she considered Edna's words.

Her voice rose a little because she wanted for the other to hear her as she clenched her fist, "And this morning, when I woke up that idiot Emil was gone! He left with only a letter telling me he was going to persuade the Malefore Gang to leave Donau alone. I'm supposed to wait for him at home! How could he expect me not to be worried? They are ruthless and without moral, I'm sure killing a single protester won't make them flinch!"

"Men are all the same, so ready to jump to their death just to prove us they are worthy."

Marta nodded, "If they don't kill him, I'll do it myself."

She sat on a bench close to her, rubbing her palm in her eyes as Edna patted her arm. "But I don't even know where to start. Emil’s father won't even tell me where the Gang hideout is, plus I can't really leave the town unprotected."

"I see. Then you have no choice but to wait for Emil here."

Edna gestured for Mikleo to approach, which he did not because he was beckoned but because he was the closest, "My guards and I will go look for him."

When Marta lifted her eyes full of hope at him, Mikleo bit back his statement that he wasn't Edna's guards and neither were the others, "Really?" she said in obvious disbelief

"Of course," Sorey answered.

Mikleo drowned out most of the rest of the conversation, rubbing his temple as a migraine hindered his capacity to think properly. In the end it was normal they agreed to help. Looking for the Gang for their own purpose didn't mean they couldn't help in the way. Still sometimes he would rest a little better if Sorey didn't forget they couldn't help anyone crossing their path.

"Emil’s father is the mayor, Neif. I'm sure you could convince him to tell you where the Malefore Gang hideout is. We do need help from warriors like you."

Alisha nodded, gloved hand brushing her ponytails. "That would be a start. Could you maybe lead us to him?"

Marta waved her hand, "I have to keep the bandits here from steering too much trouble. You won't miss Neif's house, it's right before the piers on the west side of the village."

With that, they bid goodbye to Marta as she wished them good luck. The village was small enough that with Marta’s few directions they found the mayor’s house soon enough. But it was mostly because of the commotion on their way to the piers that they found it.

A bald man was talking animatedly with two other men, their forms covered by the same type of cloak Varlhey goons were wearing. The road was narrow, shaded by two large houses with pristine walls. There was another man that watched the scene with wariness from his balcony.

"They stole the statue, I saw them. Come on!"

A high-pitched voice rose from the cloaked men’s feet while the bald man wrung his hand in distress. It was one of the men stepping a little away that allowed Mikleo to see the little black and white creature that was agitating his little white tipped arms. It had a cat like mouth and a little nose, round eyes shaded by a heavy looking metal helmet. The golden helmet slipped and the creature that shouldn't be reaching higher than Mikleo's knee redressed it on top of its head. Mikleo frowned then looked at Edna’s umbrella, his eyes narrowing further when he confirmed that indeed that creature was the exact same thing as Edna's hanging charm albeit hers was smaller and orange.

"Attakk! It's been a while!"

With Lailah calling it the creature turned its attention toward the group, split lips widening in a sort of smile and voice pitching higher as it called back.

"If it isn't Lady Lailah!"

The cloaked men turned towards the new comers, they blocked Lailah’s pass taking all the space they can on the street. They scanned the group behind Lailah eyes narrowing dangerously.

"Is there a problem here?" Lailah asked demurely.

The bandit sneered at her but Attakk pushed his leg away before he could open his mouth and grant Lailah the reason to strike.

"Hey! You there! Tell your chief that I'll be coming to get back all those artworks he stole! Art is for everyone, not to be disrespected by uncouth barbarians!"

The men snickered at the excitable shorty, "And what are you going to do? Bite the chief's ankle!" their laugher echoes in the streets.

"I'll show him what a Normin can do when partnered with a Seraph!"

"So that’s a Normin? Lailah sure knows lots of people." Rose whispered to Alisha.

"It's because of how old she is." Zaveid whispered back before the tip of his boot suspiciously caught on fire.

He jumped back trying to extinguish it creating some agitation in the narrow street. Mikleo’s elbow jammed Sorey in the chest which in turn nearly stepped on Edna's foot. She hit him with her umbrella in retaliation.

The bandit witnessed the scene whispering among themselves. One pushed the other away with a last glance at the group, it was obvious that he considered their numbers a threat should they turn their attention back to them. The other one spat right by Attakk’s little foot.

The bald man stepped up, "Come on gentlemen, I'm sure it was a misunderstanding. This is a quiet fisherman town. We don't want any problem. I'll take care of the matter with Attakk, you can go on your way."

"You'd better, Mr.Mayor. Don't know what the chief would do if he ever heard about this."

The bandit pushed Sorey’s shoulder as he made way for himself as they exited the street and Mikleo had to discreetly hold him back with his arm pushing against his abdomen.

"You shouldn't let them bother you, Neif!" Attakk peeped after the bandits had left.

Rubbing a hand against his face, Neif sighed at the accusation, "I'm not risking the villagers' safety over this."

It seemed like they had this conversation before, with Attakk’s expression showing he was used to hearing that kind of response.

Mikleo could tell when Alisha felt it was the moment to speak up, her resolution spreading between them.

"Excuse me. Are you Donau’s Mayor? We were told that we could ask you about the Malefore Gang."

The old man leaned on the small wall behind him, eyes peering carefully at them, "Please, as the mayor I don't want strangers to be involved in this."

"It's too late, Marta already asked us to rescue Emil." Edna declared.

As she mentioned Emil’s name, Neif’s eyes clouded, "Marta did that? What did Emil do?"

When Alisha retold him of their earlier conversation with Marta, Neif’s face paled before turning green.

"I should have known better than to let the boy know about their hideout. He is a righteous fool, thinking he could take on the Malefore Gang by himself."

Attakk’s helmet fell on his eyes again and the sound of his voice echoed through it when he started to talk before having finished lifting it away, "I vouch for Lady Lailah and her friends. If someone can bring back Emil, that's them."

Sorey nodded vigorously, "Can you tell us where they come from?"

Neif took some time to respond. Mikleo could understand his hesitation. They just appeared from nowhere asking to save someone they didn't know without asking anything in return. He now understood that things rarely went that way in the human world.

"They are from the Valley of Corrupted Gravity and are led by a man called Malefore that's all we know about them."

Edna crouched to be at Attakk’s height, "That’s a very dangerous place."

"They say that a Dragon lives there and nobody comes back once they enter the Valley." Saying that out loud had Neif nearly losing his balance as he shook, "I'm so worried about my son."

With a dismissive gesture of the hand not holding her umbrella Edna reassured him, "That's only legends. Plus the Dragon left years ago."

Mikleo's whole attention turned on Edna as she acted like she knew exactly what she was talking about. Then it all clicked together and Mikleo bit his lips.

"That's where you used to live."

She turned her back to him while straightening. She hid herself behind her umbrella but even so Mikleo could tell she had her head bowed.

"If Attakk trusts you then I have no choice but to rely on you to rescue my son." Neif said, cutting through the heaviness that threatened to settle over them.

Some of his earlier pallor seemed to have dimmed at the thought. Attack jumped to attention, balancing his small arms.

"Lady Lailah is the strongest fire Seraph I know! With me to strengthen her power she would be unstoppable! Let me go with you!"

Lailah was covering her cheeks with her hand, "You are ever the flatterer Attakk, but we can't possibly ask you to come with us."

Sorey looked interested though, with the way he was looking at the Normin. To be honest Mikleo was curious too. Gramps told them about the existence of other types of Seraph, Morgrim was one example and Normin was another. Still they were a mystery because Gramps and the other Elysians wouldn’t talk more about it and there were no books on the subject. Mikleo only knew that Normin choose to isolate themselves from humans and other Seraph somewhere like one thousand years ago.

Attakk's small body seemed to grow in size with his resentment, "They stole paintings and antiques from the village museum so I was going to ride to their hideout anyway. And you'll need the King's permission to enter the Valley. That I could obtain!"

A collective groan was shared between them.

"We just left Fletz, and will need to cross the Barrens again." Rose’s groan was maybe the loudest.

There was a lookout point bordering the sea. From there Mikleo could see the docks and the small fisherman boats at large. The waves crashed repeatedly against the cliffs side, the movement synching with his breath. In out, in out. It was almost like it was washing Mikleo's worry from the inside.

The others were gathering supplies in town resting just a bit before going back to Fletz and they gladly let him and Sorey do some exploration. He could feel Sorey’s steady presence beside him. The only sound he made were his hums of concentration and the scratching of his pencil as he sketched the lighthouse behind them.

"Mik ? Mikleo? Mikleooo ?"

A bit of tenseness found its way on Mikleo's back at the annoying way Sorey was calling to him, beside the fact that he was reluctant to look away from the horizon line. But Sorey’s call was insistent so he turned away from the pull of the ocean, animosity dissipating as soon as his gaze fell on Sorey’s concerned expression.

"Yes?"

"I have been calling you for a while."

Sorey put his hand on the railing beside Mikleo, smiling as he admired the view Mikleo was admiring moments before being rudely interrupted. The way the light reflecting on the ocean surface played with the green of his eyes made Mikleo's stomach flutter, making him forget about the ocean’s beauty entirely. The breeze ruffled Sorey's hair and cooled Mikleo.

"I was… lost in thought."

"I noticed. Well, you did snap at Lailah. You are usually more controlled than that."

Frowning at the reminder, Mikleo looked away from Sorey, turning his back to the ocean he leaned on the railing using his elbows following a seagull as it landed on top of the lighthouse. Mikleo was at peace, the perfect moment to have a conversation, he just didn't want to have this conversation.

"You can tell me what's bothering you."

"It's nothing." He dismissed with a hand gesture.

Sorey pinched his upper arm, "You are always there to listen to my problems, let me return the favor for once."

After soothing the light pain, Mikleo pinched back but Sorey didn't even flinch, kind eyes peering at Mikleo like he could reach his soul. Defeated he sighed.

"It's-" Mikleo racked a hand through his hair. Willing to talk was one thing, finding the right words was another. "I'm enjoying travelling with you. I love this so much but-"

Sorey was encouraging him silently, his shoulder bumped into his and stayed there, radiating warmth.

"I feel like I have no right to enjoy this when we don't even know where Gramps is." He as certain he was safe though, he has to be, "It's making me anxious. Every time I'm happy about something it's like something is there to remind me I shouldn't."

Strong arms engulfed him into an embrace. He almost jumped in surprise when he felt the soothing motions Sorey was making on his back. Mikleo could feel some of the rigidity easing as he melted into Sorey's hug.

"I won't let you turn into a Dragon. I have the power to prevent that now."

Mikleo's eyes widened because that absolutely wasn't what they had been discussing yet it rang true like all the time, that was the fear Mikleo had refused to acknowledge the birthing point of most of his anxieties. He was about to deny, about to tell Sorey he never thought that could happen. Lying to himself was how it started, refusing to acknowledge his own feelings would be the catalyst, it would turn him into a Dragon if he was exposed to Malevolence for too long. And as Dragoon they were often bathed into it. Mikleo had to recognize he feared his insecurities would turn him into a Dragon.

"I do think that sometimes too, that I shouldn't be having so much fun." Sorey confessed, leaning back a little to look at Mikleo's face. "But then I remember that Gramps would love it when we'll tell him of our travels. I picture his smile when we'll narrate our adventure to everyone in Elysia. And then I look at you and I remember there isn't anyone I would rather share that with."

Swallowing the lump in his throat, Mikleo bit his cheek to prevent any sound from coming out of his mouth. "You are right." Fortunately his voice didn't break as he squeezed Sorey's back in return..

It had the same effect as looking at the ocean, Sorey's love reaching his heart in waves, but ten times stronger. The relief was threatening to make Mikleo cry but he wouldn't accept having traces of tears that Edna could use against him. So he chuckled, accepting the truth of Sorey's words.

"I to want to travel all around the world with you. I want to cross that sea with you, "He looked back at the ocean briefly before returning to Sorey, drowning into greens, "I want to see all the world has to offer and more. And I want to do it with you."

The admission fell easily from his lips, as easy as it seemed to love Sorey.

Sorey tilted his head, "Are you proposing?"

The teasing tone he used shattered the moment and Mikleo pushed him away but they both started to laugh, "As if I would want to marry a dork like you." he teased back.

"But you love me."

That he couldn't deny. He may be not ready to talk about marriage but his love for Sorey wasn't foreign anymore, it's became part of Mikleo long ago. It took him some seconds before realizing that Sorey had extended his arm in front of them, fist closed. With a fond smile wining over his feature, Mikleo answered, bringing his forearm against Sorey, their fists nearly touching.

"Don't forget that you can let me protect you too."

Mikleo wanted to make sure to never forget that anymore. If only it was so simple to fool ones mind.

Chapter Text

The group was back in Fletz before the end of the afternoon and had gone straight to ask the hulking guard guarding the Twin Castle’s entrance near the market place. At this time of the day, it was less frequented than the main entrance and if they wanted to stay discreet it was ideal.

With their luck, Alisha should have seen the guard’s refusal coming. She still felt guilty to have been amused by the way Attakk stiffened, his face going slack with his eyes comically round when the guard responded he couldn't tell one Normin from the other and couldn't let him pass on his name alone. Someone had to vouch for them, because they could be bandits for all the guard knows.

Sorey had to physically restrain Attakk after that, holding the small body after he tried to run head first into the man’s legs, helmet ready to hurt. He had thrashed in Sorey's arms proffering insults at the poor guard that was only doing his job as they dragged him away, Edna whispering reassurances that humans were just stupid because there was clear difference between Normin color, voice and body shape. It calmed Attakk down a little until Mikleo had to ask if Edna knew many Normin, honestly she responded that she knew about two of them, Attakk being one of the two.

Now after letting out crocodile tears that reddened his eyes, Attakk was sniffling quietly as they waited for Sorey and Mikleo to come back with someone that could vouch for them.

The Sparrow Feathers wagon was parked in the same place since they were allowed in the city, the guard instructing them that parking outside was dangerous with the bandits, yet they couldn't help them to obtain an audience with the king. It's been months since the last time someone did.

Without means for her guild to attend to the market days, Rose was a little upset. Alisha clenched her fingers when she saw Rose rub at her neck in annoyance. She wanted to do something to help, anything to ease Rose’s tension.

Rose and Sorey had something very similar to them that Alisha just recently found out how much she appreciated. It was their smiles. Both were quite different though, when Sorey was sunny and joyful every time something caught his interest, which meant quite often, Rose’s was more grins and smirks, her joy reserved for those closest to her.

She'll never forget the devilish smile Rose had when she pushed her into the cloth merchant’s shop, the satisfied smile she had when Alisha tried on the outfit she chose for her that turned cattish when Alisha blushed. She doesn’t know exactly when she started to notice just how different Rose’s smiles make her feel, something tightening in her chest every time. Her cheeks started to feel warm as she thought of it.

Wanting to quickly banish the image from her mind, Alisha started to wonder why Sorey and Mikleo were taking so long. The slow declining of the sun started to make the shadows longer, the days heat receding to a more bearable temperature as the air was cooled by the sea breeze.

There was a solution she had come by herself that would eventually convince the guard to let them see the king. Alisha had always considered herself more of a knight than a princess; the members of the councils had made sure to comfort her in that. It would serve their purpose to use her title right now, even though she was hesitant to do it.

She waited for Rose to finish her conversation with Eguille, pulling her lips between her teeth because the mere idea of suggesting it was making her uncomfortable. Yet when Rose came back toward her Alisha opened her mouth, "Maybe I could ask entrance as a Prin-"

Rose holding a finger up in front of her face was an effective way to stop her from finishing that thought.

"Do you really want to do that?" Rose started, blue eyes narrowing at Alisha.

Alisha considered their options, eyes searching for the other members of the group to seek her answer. But the answer was already within herself, "No." she responded with an assurance she had thought lost long ago.

Rose nodded, the corner of her mouth lifting up, "You told me once, that you wanted to travel with us as only Alisha." She tugged a little at Alisha’s vest, "That's was what the gift was for, me completely approving of that decision."

Alisha stared at her feet, that conversation was a hazy memory, that stray thought she had in a quiet moment after settling things with Serdio’s royal court. She had wanted to be as far away from them as possible at that moment. Away from the lies, her half-brother's councilors complotting and corridor noise whispering she wanted the throne for herself. She didn't want to be there after the happiness brought by the end of the war gave way to politics.

She must have it showing on her face because Rose punched her playfully, supportive, "there are other options available. I know the nerds may be a little too optimistic sometimes, but I think we can still count on them. And, you are allowed to be selfish sometimes too, you know?"

Hearing those words made something weird happen in her chest again, Alisha starting to think that maybe she could just do that, if only a little and that it wouldn't hurt anyone.

Sorey and Mikleo's return saved her from wringing herself and her morale with the thought. A man in his sixties was following them, greying hair covered by a blue and white toque. He lifted glasses on his nose as he apprised the weird group they made.

"What an eclectic group," he nodded looking pleased by his finding, "Maybe you could really take on the Malefore Gang. They must have taken something very precious if you are ready to go inside their hideout."

Alisha couldn't help but let her eyes wander toward Lailah. She was looking at the twin tower of the castle in the distance, the first star of the night shining near it as the sun was initiating his descent behind the horizon.

"Guys, this is Masedra, he is an astronomer. Mikleo and I talked to him about our situation and he accepted to help us enter the castle." Sorey explained.

Attakk was definitively pouting, retreating inside the cart, "I don't want to go anymore. Wake me up when'll go save Emil!" his voice come from the inside.

The old man’s brow went to his hairline as he looked at Sorey for precision. Sorey merely shrugged, "He had a rough day."

Something quiet and truthful was emanating from Masedra, making Alisha want to trust him and follow him. He had the presence of someone mass would listen too, the gentleness in his moves that told he couldn't hurt a fly. Yet Alisha was no stranger to the thing she saw in his eyes, Masedra was a man that could go to great lengths to achieve his goals. She could only hope that the man’s goals stayed in the virtuous path.

"Then shall we go to the castle? The guard will let me through. I have an additional business in addition to being an astronomer that lets me freely enter the castle." he told them.

Alisha wasn't about to let her mistrust be known. She was aware that Sorey could trust a little freely, otherwise She would never had started traveling with him.

"What are you doing?" Edna said without formality.

"I'm a governor so I can enter by giving my name. And if the guard the young Sorey mentioned is the one I think it is then he will recognize me." He responded with a little hint of pride.

"That's boring." She continued.

"You would have preferred we blow up the entrance, right?" Zaveid whispered conspicuously to her.

She hid her expression behind her umbrella, but even then Alisha could feel her smile radiating.

The bells annunciating the fall of twilight rang around the cities. Masedra turned toward the castle to hear their toll, every ring seemingly vibrating inside his body, "It's time to go. Now if you'd please follow me, let's all head to the Twin Castle."

It was dark by the time they reached the castle, the guard letting them pass without a fuss was a bit surprising considering Alisha had expected yet another complication. They followed Masedra into the open staircase that Prince Sergei had come down through last time.

It ended in the castle courtyard, watch tower siding it. It was the first time Alisha was allowed to see the Twin Castle from up close. And she didn't even enter as royalty. As they crossed the courtyard, cobblestone lit by many glowing torches, Masedra explained to them the castle history. How the architecture was airy, pillars supporting balconies and many large openings to allow winds to enter and chase the heat on hot summer days.

The courtyard was lined with statues of past heroes and kings and it was almost obligatory for Sorey and Mikleo to stop before them and argue about who they represented and what era they were. Masedra had to loudly clear his throat to remind them that he was expected and so as his guests they were too and it wasn't polite to make a king wait. Reluctantly, the boys left the statues alone and followed Masedra on blue carpeted stairs.

Edna rained havoc as she suggested that maybe those were statues of a Queen of the past and that history had erased their genders to empower men.

She had a point that Mikleo and Sorey couldn't argue against, and it led them to another conversation between themselves as they followed Masedra.

Alisha thought he would enter the first door on top of the stairs, the entrance under polished pillars was carefully ornamented but Masedra turned and continued to climb stairs that led them toward another pillared balcony overlooking the courtyard. There the blue carpeting suddenly changed to royal red, muffling the group footsteps as reverent silence fell between them.

Eventually Masedra led them into the throne room where the King Strelka was waiting for them. Alisha had been summoned into the small and austere throne room in Indels castle where decorations were scarce and the walls bare. She was not used to the exuberance that was this castle throne room.

Her eyes didn't know where to settle. Either on the red carpet with elaborate motifs treaded in gold that stopped before the tree throne atop a dais, or on the flowing banners and drapery covering the walls. Finally, the decision was made for her as they stopped before the dais, Masedra bowing before his king.

The others didn't need to be prompted before imitating him and showing respect, though Alisha briefly saw Lailah nudge Edna who rolled her eyes before complying. She didn't see much else as she was busy being troubled as her knee nearly sank in the plush carpet. Wondering if this meant the king considered one must not be made uncomfortable when bowing before him, Alisha nearly missed as Masedra announced his and his guests’ presence.

The king, a tall and broader older man whose heavy looking robe rested on large shoulders rose from his throne, a pleased expression sitting atop his gentle features.

"Oh, Masedra! Please take care of my dear Boris today as well." The King said.

His booming commanding voice filled the large room, reminding Alisha about the authority this man had. She couldn't help but to compare it to her own country and it was hard to push the thought away, telling herself that there was no comparison possible. Thinking that her king didn't possess that kind of authority felt like treason.

The king went on, saving Alisha from herself, "By the way, I think I have some problem with my eyes. I see many Masedra."

He seemed really confused about that, Alisha exchanged a confused look with Rose beside her. Rose seemed to want to question the king just as Masedra rose, climbing on the dais to stand closer to the king. Neither the guards nor the king protested at the move so Alisha didn't question it more than that.

"King Strelka…" Masedra began, shaking his head like he was tired, "There is only one of me. Like I said, those people are my friends, Your Majesty."

Friends? That was a little bold considering they met the man just a while ago; still Alisha smiled at the thought. Sorey had met the man the day before and she knew how he could charm anyone into being friends with him.

The king blinked, a thoughtful expression settling deep into his face as is eyes seemed to light up with recognition. "Indeed, my mistake. There is only one Masedra. And do these people have a request?"

The king didn't lose or waste any time, clearly used to be approached only by interest. Rose stood up first as they were granted lease to speak freely, the others following after her. Seeing her bite her lips as she considered her words, Alisha just knew that Rose’s merchant side was at war with their mission. But pushing aside her want to ask for a place in the market, nudged Alisha.

"We are here to request permission to enter the Valley of Corrupted Gravity." Alisha’s voice seemed loud between the throne room walls.

Once again the king seemed thoughtful, fingers stroking his small beard as he turned back toward Masedra, "Hmm, Masedra… I think I heard 'the Valley of Corrupted Gravity'…was it my imagination?"

Sighing, Masedra responded to his king’s inquiry, "My King… your ears are fine too. These people need to talk to the Malefore Gang so they would like to enter the Valley."

"Oh, you too!" the king exclaimed, seemingly surprised by the news, "The other day a young man called Emil came to me to ask the same question." The king started to pace slowly, "It seems like the place became trendy nowadays."

"We aren't going there for a picnic." Rose said forgetting for one moment that they were talking to a king.

But as the king turned to her eyes wide in amazement she seemed to suddenly remember and flinched, now understanding that she may have lost their permission.

Nodding the king sat back on his throne, "Then you understand all the risk. Servant! Bring the pass for them!"

Rose’s eyes darted toward Alisha who had no choice but to shrug, this court was different than Bale after all. A man came from behind the open area, bringing a small square of red paper on a tray. Sorey took it, thanking the servant under his breath.

"Be careful!" The king instructed as the servant retired.

"We really appreciate this, Your Majesty. We thank you for your concern as well."

Sorey bowed, nearly bending in half. The king smiled at his behavior and looked at the dark sky from the open balcony, "It is so late already. We do have an empty guest room in the castle right now. Maybe you could make use of it?"

They took the dismissal for what it was. Thanking the king for is invitation before following Masedra back to the courtyard. The old man seemed tired. The interaction with his king seemed to have deepened the frown he was wearing.

It smoothed a little, the crease between his brow reducing as he turned back toward them, "This is where we part for now. I have to go back to work. Prince Boris's studies are going very well by himself."

He left them with a goodbye. They all seemed still a little troubled by their meeting with the king, so when Sorey suggested going back to see the statues no one protested.

The encounter with the king left a biter after taste in Alisha's mouth. She could easily tell that something was off, although she barely remembered the man from his visit to Bale, having seen the man only from afar when she was a child.

He acted like a very old man. Once she had seen a man from the council act the same strange way before he retired. Yet the king seemed too young to have old age acting up. Masedra was older than him and he seemed fine. Maybe it was some kind of illness?

She was certain of one thing though. It was that Masedra knew of something, yet he didn't seem inclined to talk about it though he seemed used to his king odd behavior.  It made her think back of the strange feeling she had when meeting Prince Sergei in the Market Place. Someone who was praised even in her own court couldn't be so different from what people told, right?

Anyway, it was kind of him to invite them to stay in the guest room for tonight but something inside her was telling her it may be wiser to refuse.

Mikleo and Sorey debate about the kings potentially being queens now somehow included Lailah and Edna’s insight, the sound of it providing a soothing background noise. But Alisha was too lost in thought to really hear what they were saying.

Her eyes somehow found Rose as the other woman's gaze lingered toward the main gate as if she wanted to be away from this conversation. Observing the group had Alisha’s train of thought deviate from the king, and she started to relax, admitting that it could be a good idea to accept the king’s offer after all.

It wasn't everyday they could sleep on real mattresses.

 "Excuse me, Princess Alisha?"

The older woman’s voice almost startled her as it cut through the others chatter, turning toward it to answer Alisha blinked in confusion when she found no one. A throat clearing coming from her feet helped her understand. A large round cat was standing on the carpeted stairs looking at her with insistence.

"Good evening, Morgrim. It's nice to see you again." Sorey greeted her.

Mikleo and Lailah following his example added to Alisha's confusion. She couldn't help but to notice how the cat’s split lips lifted as it was smiling.

"Yes, it's a pleasure young lad. But I'm not here to greet you. The Prince Boris asked me to call the Princess and her company." Her yellow eyes never left Alisha as she lifted her round plump body already hopping higher on the stairs.

Alisha had yet to grasp the fact that this cat could talk so the only coherent thought that she could formulate was, "The Prince? The Prince knows of our visit."

"Naturally. He is the best astronomer the town could hope for, the stars told him. Astrology shows him the way. "She was so proud in saying that her ears and back aligned, her short tail bobbed, "Now if you'll follow me please."

Without more idle talk, she jumped from the stairs assuming the group to follow after her. Alisha turned toward her friends, her decision made she nodded before starting to follow Morgrim.

"Prince Boris? What could he want with us?" Rose asked, putting word to the question everyone must have on their lips.

"We'll find out after following Morgrim." Mikleo answered.

"He is Prince Sergei’s twin brother. But being born second, he isn't to be Crown Prince."

Alisha said, providing some answer, yet that was all she could tell them, though she had the feeling it has something to do with the King’s odd behavior there was no certitude. Maybe the Prince just wanted to greet her. Of the royal family, she remembered him the best because when her half-brother and Sergei would visit the training ground where Alisha was learning to be a knight, Boris would often partner his training with her and would quit soon to go read books on the side bench. She never found his lack of interest in physical pursuit wrong or weird even though Alisha's half-brother often mocked him for being unable to defeat a girl.

He stopped after the time they switched partners and Alisha had Serdio’s young king on his back in mere minutes. Now that she thought of it, the twin Princes visits to the training ground had gradually diminished after that.

"The Prince really is able to read the future in the stars? Astrology must be an incredible science. I don't think Seraphs ever invented an art that could read into the future." Lailah’s voice carried a ring that couldn't hide her curiosity.

"That's because time fluctuates. I don't believe dumb humans can predict the future with accurate efficiency. The prince must have made a lucky guess." Edna commented, and Alisha could almost hear Lailah’s heart break in her disappointment, "And he may have caught a glance at us and recognized Alisha." She nailed the coffin.

Morgrim led them silently toward the eastern courtyard, star shaped lamps lighting their way until they stopped on a balcony. It was a balcony terrace facing the ocean, the crashing waves making a rhythmical sound into the night as the lights from the castle reflected on its surface, scintillating like the whole castle was underneath instead. The column holding the lantern supported the roof, flags of the Tiberoa kingdom hanging from them just like they did in the throne room.

The Prince Boris was looking into the ocean before he heard them approaching and turned to greet them. He really was Prince Sergei’s identical twin. They had the same sharp shaped face and same hair color and although the small beard was trimmed in the same fashion, Boris’ hair was a little longer, stray locks falling on his forehead. He was adorning a silver circlet as a reminder of his position, but Alisha could tell that his stance was relaxed, shoulders slumped unlike someone meeting someone formally. His clothes were very similar to those she saw on Sergei yesterday, but instead of wearing crimson and silver, Boris seemed to favor dark blue and gold.

He smiled as the group spread on the balcony to see him, his features a little tense. He seemed to take a deep breath before bowing curtly at Alisha.

"Welcome Princess Alisha of Serdio, words of your accomplishment had reached as far as my kingdom’s ears. It's been a long time since last time we met so you may not remember me. I'm Boris, Sergei’s younger brother. And I have invited you here because I have a favor to ask of you."

Well, he was rather straightforward. It only served to alarm Alisha, because the situation must be dire for a Prince to forgo all formality as it must have been ingrained inside him since a young age. She knew how it felt as she too still had trouble being casual with her friends.

Without her noticing it, her eyes strayed toward Rose. Alisha was steadily learning she could relax and be more of herself with them and Rose was a huge part of her reassurance.

"So, you really knew who she is. Even though she ditched her knight outfit," Rose seemed rather displeased by the idea, unable to prevent her upper lips from twisting.

"Yes, just like as Morgrim said! He found out about it through Astrology."

Lailah was leaning toward Boris and while she expressed her interest with her voice rising above her usual tone, she was able to keep herself from invading the Prince’s space. Her eyes were practically rivaling the moon shine.

Sorey tilted his head to the side in confusion, "What is Astrology exactly? It does sound like Astronomy-"

Lailah and Rose were on him the second after he asked, "You don't know about Astrology?" They said at the same time.

Sorey had no choice but to take a step back at the assault, Alisha coughed in her fist to hide her laughter. Zaveid saved the young man by pulling him against his bare chest, an arm wrapped around his shoulder,

"Astrology you see, "he said rather dramatically, his free hand covering over his heart, "Is a contender of every woman’s dream. They are rather fond of the telling of a person's fortune from the location of the stars. Knowing about it will certainly grant you many conquests."

Humming in thought, Sorey seemed to consider Zaveid’s approach of Astrology. Alisha preferred he would rather not take Zaveid’s advice. Boris reminded every one of his presence as he let out a small laugh. Her cheeks heating up in shame was a punishment Alisha thought she deserved after such impoliteness. But Boris seemed to have taken no offence, on the contrary, his smile was genuine and his features looked less tired as when they entered the balcony.

"You have such amusing friends." He told her.

Sorey was realized and hid just a little behind Mikleo as Rose and Lailah looked away toward the sea looking as innocent as they could.

"Please continue." Alisha prompted, feeling her spirit lifted.

Boris nodded, smile immediately disappearing, "It's about my brother Sergei."

Alisha thought it would be something of that nature, "Something did happen to the Prince. I had trouble believing he was his usual self…" she started before catching herself, she bit her lip allowing the Prince to resume.

His eyes seemed to cloud a little, the amused mood Alisha’s companions gave him disappearing as he nodded, "Well, it started about half a year ago." Then sighing like he needed to find the strength to talk, he turned toward the sea, "Back then my brother Sergei was very kind, and my… everyone in the country admired him."

Alisha’s attention was focused on Boris, yet she could feel Sorey beside her twitch when the Prince turned back to them. She could empathize as she too felt the sudden need to comfort Boris as he crossed his arms over his chest, seemingly more vulnerable than a child being grounded after doing something silly.

"It all started after I insisted he would come horseback riding with me. Suddenly my brother's horse bucked and ran away to the forest."

"Did he lose control of the horse?" Sorey asked.

Boris shook his head, "It was…it seemed Sergei had somehow fainted and couldn't control the horse. I chased after it but…when I found him he was on the ground. It was fortunate that he wasn't injured at all, everyone was so relieved."

"Then you shouldn't blame yourself." Sorey said, "It was an accident."

A faint smile pulling on his lips at Sorey's concern, Boris seemed to ease up a little, yet he looked at the ground when he continued, "When Sergei came to, he was a completely different person. Everyone says it's because he hit himself on the head, however, something more than his language and attitude was wrong. It was as if he is a different person… as a twin I know it."

"Did someone else suspect the change? Maybe, the king?" Alisha suggested, not once believing that Boris could have been the only one seeing his brother change this drastically.

But the prince shook his head again, "No, instead he was happy to see my brother having more bite…" he scrunched his nose like the mere thought was displeasing him greatly.

When he looked up though, his jaw was clenched, "I heard that you plan to head to the Valley of Corrupted Gravity. The favor I want to ask is for you to find out the relationship between my brother and the Malefore Gang."

The revelation made a small noise come through the group as they quietly exchanged about the possibility. Taken aback, Alisha was still registering the Prince’s demand when Rose talked.

"What about the Prince and the Malefore?"

Boris hummed, conscious that he wasn't really making sense if he didn't give more explanation, Alisha smiled encouragingly. Rubbing as his nape, Boris took some seconds to choose how to explain the situation.

"Tiberoa appears to be peaceful but as you may have noticed we are having a serious problem. Bandits are terrorizing the population and roaming the country freely."

"They bullied the Normin curator at Donau stealing from the museum." Edna piped up, making the Prince know of how much they knew.

Even though her tone was neutral and her words lacked their usual tease, it looked like she just had slapped Boris, "I know," he answered with another weary sight, "It used to be different. That's until half a year ago.

"At the same time the Prince began acting strange," Mikleo said, his hand covering his mouth.

"The stars told me there is some kind of relationship between my brother and the Gang. Oh and one more thing, 'Never hand over the Moon,', "Boris repeated, biting his thumb after the words left place to reflect, "Me and my brother would celebrate our twentieth birthday soon. At the ceremony, the Tiberoan national treasure, The Moon Dagger will be passed down to Sergei. I assume the 'Moon' refers to that."

At the Moon Dagger mention, Alisha felt like a blow to her chest, like the tip of a cold blade was pressed against her chest, "The second divine moon object."

It was like she could feel the sensation of the Moon Gem being forcefully extracted from her again. The emptiness it left clogging her lungs and making her fall helplessly on the ground, unable to lift even a finger to defend herself.

Rose trembled a little beside her, "It is linked with Lunarre."

Holding her joined hand in front of herself Lailah looked like she was praying, "The Dragoon's spirits fate will show us the way. We were headed in the right direction all along."

Mikleo leaned toward Sorey as his finger twitched wanting to touch the pearl surface of his Dragoon Spirit but unable to do it in front of an audience. Alisha could feel the light spark of the one she carried seemed to give in her bag.

The prince observed them quietly before resuming, "I have to find the truth before the ceremony. I would be grateful if you could look into this for me."

Sorey didn't hesitate a second when he answered, "We will. We have no reason not to because our original intention was to go after the Gang."

The rest of them voiced their agreement.

"I'm so grateful to all of you."

Before Boris could thank them more a servant called from the other side of the Terrace. "The dinner will be served soon your Highness."

Looking alarmingly at the dark sky, Boris fidgeted a little, "It's already this late? Poor Masedra, I forgot about him and left him in the study!" He started to hurry back in the castle before remembering and turning back toward the group, "And please do attend the dinner, you are my guests."

The servant that called the prince bowed to them as well, "The King also invites everyone. You are to let me know when you are ready to let me lead you to the dining room."

He went back behind the high pillar, curtain hanging from the windows lifting at his passage.

"Should we really? I'm not really confortable dining with royalty."

Alisha couldn't help but quietly chuckle as she remembered the time she had invited Rose to her table. She remembered quite fervently why Rose would think so.

"Don't worry, we won't let you get drunk and embarrass yourself." Mikleo said, serious.

"Come on, you would pass the opportunity for a feast."

Rose swiftly avoided Zaveid’s hand that nearly landed on her shoulder, eyes narrowing dangerously at Mikleo.

"Hey mister, we are ready." Edna’s voice calling back the servant made everyone reach an agreement.

The guest room beds were just as soft as Alisha dreamed. Tired and a little bit dismayed after another rude encounter with Sergei at dinner she sat on the soft blue bedcovers.

She smoothed at them following the gold stars pattern with her fingers.

The dinner had been…troubling to say the least.

"That prince Sergei… I may be a seraph but it wasn't a reason to eat my portion." Edna complained sitting on the bed next to Alisha.

"Now I understand Prince Boris’ hardship." Alisha said.

Prior to dinner, they had teased Rose about her dining habit but Prince Sergei had been worse. He had been eating ravenously, not bothering about table manners and the king had praised him about his hunger. Boris looked like he had wanted to be anywhere but near his brother when Sergei had commented about Alisha, Lailah and Rose being cute before completely ignoring Sorey presenting himself.

There was a thing particularly disturbing to Alisha now that she could think back about it in the calmness of the bedroom.

"Did you see how Sergei reacted when we mentioned our visit to the Gang?"

"How could we not? The clatter his fork made was enough to make Morgrim jump." Zaveid said, leaning on the windowsill.

"I do think that Sergei might lead us to Lunarre now." Lailah was still standing, her hand held in her front, "The Moon Dagger is our guide."

The mention of the ancient Hellion treasure made Alisha shiver, a tremor she couldn't hide and that was obviously caught by Rose as she sat beside her, shoulders nearly touching.

"Everything leads to the Malefore. Tomorrow we'll head for the Valley. Find Emil, find Lailah's spirit and find the truth about that snake pit."

"Tomorrow."

Chapter Text

The Valley of Corrupted Gravity was situated in the northern part of the kingdom. It was surprising how quick the landscape went from rocky lands and withered earth to bushy vale and rolling fields the landscape now alternating between vineyard, orchards and yellowed pastures. Over the horizon line stood a small mountain, old with rounded peaks and green with trees. A most startling contrast with the desert they just left.

The sun was still as unforgivable in the late summer days, only the winds coming from the ocean keeping the temperature bearable. They stopped by a stream, water fresh from the mountain as they filled their canteens and rested a bit before resuming their travel. As if he himself was swept by the small current that moved the water, Mikleo could feel his thoughts drift again. Whether it was because his conversation with Sorey eased his mind or not, Mikleo wasn't plagued by his darkest thoughts for once, focusing on what he couldn't wait to relate to his family.

It seemed that Sorey was adamant on making sure Mikleo stopped overthinking because he was quick to end his musing with a kiss and was satisfied only when Mikleo smiled and engaged him in his hypothesis about if there was anything living in the Valley.

 He would have never hoped that their quest would take them to visit one of the sites he and Sorey had dreamed of seeing together one day. He was still feeling a little guilty over having said harsh words at Lailah after she let the thief steal her Dragoon spirit, but the truth was that it gave them an opportunity to see the Valley and what laid beyond. For that he was grateful.

The notes in the celestial record left much to expect, Mikleo could remember it word for word: 'The dangerous Valley of Corrupted Gravity was the only way to reach the ruin of the home of the Gigantos thus preserving the area from other creatures intervention and providing extensive insight of an era predating the Dragon Campaign. Just like with the Mount Mabinogio, those ruins were almost left untouched by explorer hands. The mere idea was making Mikleo’s skin crawl with anticipation.

The Celestial record also stated that considering the size of the ruin and the time the author had, they could only do a succinct exploration with the intention of coming back later. The book doesn't say if the author ever did. Mikleo’s enthusiasm was a little diminished when he thought that they were much in the same situation and couldn't afford to explore it fully, though even stepping on the soil of those ruins was a dream come true.

However, if Mikleo was enthusiastic, Sorey was ecstatic. There was no way to contain his excitement. His steps were light and he kept prompting the group to walk faster. His energy was never ending and he kept Mikleo on his toes as they discussed the matter. Alisha as a fellow history fan had left the conversation after a while, unable to follow their fast exchange of theories and historical facts.

Edna's glare and annoyed sighs only added to his enjoyment.

They saw the end of the road from far away, the pass narrowing into a canyon closed by a massive and tall gate. The guard outpost was built on the wall like a bird nest on a cliff. How the Malefore gang could even use that path to go and come from their supposed territories was hard to imagine. That they must have found other ways in the mountain was the probable explanation.

With the Valley getting closer, Mikleo could sense a shift in the environment. Something the human author of the Celestial record couldn't have felt. A quick glance at his fellow seraphim companions had him confirming it wasn't only his imagination. A bead of sweat was running along Zaveid’s temple and Lailah's lips were pulled taut, the uncomfortable feeling affecting them. Edna’s face though remained unreadable, Mikleo suspecting that she may be used to the feeling.

Sorey was nearly bouncing in place as he handed the king's pass to the guard. The man looked at them with eyes as wide as saucers. Rose shrugged at him. The man commenting on how the place seemed popular lately was all they needed to hear to know that Emil had preceded them yet again. With a little more prodding of the guard they were comforted that he had only a few hours on them. It was a great boost to the morale to know that they still could stop the young man from being harmed.

Each second of the slow opening of the gate felt like ages as it held them from seeing the infamous Valley with their own eyes. The guard barely had time to usher a warning before Sorey was already bolting behind the gate.

They found him waiting for the rest of the group, eyes wide as he looked everywhere around him, unable to decide just were to rest his gaze.  Here the unsetting feeling of disturbance in the mana flow was making Mikleo a bit nauseous, but he refused to be hindered by that. Gulping to steady himself, Mikleo took in the sight before him.

It wasn't anything that could have been properly explained in books. The sun was hidden by the strange distorted mist surrounding them, yet the area was rather luminous as though natural sunlight could still filter through the unnatural cloud. The mist seemed to glow and distort itself, moving like they were under water. But the most noticeable was the way gravity seemed completely crazy in that bubble.

 Where the road ended, Mikleo couldn't see the ground anymore as though an endless void lay beyond. Yet, paths continued in the form of morsels of dirt road and rocks floating around like they were moved by invisible currents. Bits of earth were scattered everywhere, with nothing connecting them but wrapped gravity and twisted and sinuous bare trees.

Lailah picked a pebble from the ground and threw it in front of her. Its course was stopped abruptly in the strange mist before it started drifting gently in the air, far and away from the direction Lailah threw it in the first place.

"We must proceed with caution around here and not let ourselves be thrown by the gravity of the situation."

Her eyes were shining with how proud of her word play she was. Mind too preoccupied with his need to understand the phenomenon, Mikleo barely reacted, humming to make her know he had heard. It was Rose’s elbow in his ribs that forced his eyes away from the Valley.

"Are you getting tired of gravity jokes?" she asked nudging him again, "I keep falling for them every time."

Lailah’s hand went to her mouth as she exclaimed, "Oh, Rose! That one was ground breaking!"

There was no way to restrain the chuckle that passed his lips, Mikleo comforting himself in the fact that everyone reacted much the same way to Lailah’s horrible pun. Though Edna hid behind her umbrella, she was obviously smiling. 

Apparently satisfied with Mikleo’s reaction, Rose clapped him in the back in encouragement. The jerking movements made his lips turn downward as his complexion turned green. A bout of nausea suddenly wakening his upset stomach, Mikleo reflex was to put a hand over his mouth.

Sorey’s hand felt cold on his forehead as he steadied him up, Mikleo couldn't remember having toppled over.

"Are you all right?"

Mikleo’s heart squeezed as he heard so much concern in Sorey's voice when he had laughed heartily a moment before. Mikleo leaned a bit on Sorey, just the time for his vision to stop rebelling and making him believe that everything was moving in circle around him.

"I'm fine, it's just… this place is…" he couldn't really put words on it; breathing through his nose he made a vague gesture with his hand.

"I do feel a bit dizzy too. The natural flow of mana it so upset here, there is no way for us Seraph to tell north from south." Lailah explained.

"But Meebo is such a lightweight that a small disturbance is enough to make him vomit. Our Meebo is fragile."

"I'm not-!" Mikleo tried to protest before an inopportune burp erupted from his lips instead.

Now red with embarrassment, hand covering his mouth and eyes wide Mikleo took some seconds to notice the nausea had eased. Edna was smiling complacently at him. She had angered him on purpose, and now he was too humiliated to do more than glare at her.

"See. Letting it go makes it all better. But, that was rather undignified." She grimaced.

The clenching of Mikleo’s fist was the signal for Sorey to stop this, "I wonder what could disturb the flow of mana this much. The Celestial record speaks of a great battle happening here during the Dragon Campaign."

Zaveid gestured wildly to the area around them, fingers extending to touch one of the smaller rocks floating around, "This, guys, is what happens when Dragoon's and Hellion's Artes collide. Do you remember how the Dragon power made the forest mutate? This is hundreds of times worse."

"So, that’s really what happened? It seems so surrealist. How many people need to hate each other to not notice that they are destroying everything around them? "Sorey was looking at the Valley with a new look, like he was imagining the violence of the battle that must have occurred here. Mikleo saw his fingers reach toward the pouch where he kept his Dragoon Spirit before settling on his side, empty, "I hope something like that would never happen again."

It was almost like the rage and hatred of the war could be felt around them, like it was what was making Mikleo sick. It was so much like Malevolence though it wasn't as stifling. Looking around him Mikleo could imagine just how the mountain was cleaved, shredded by powerful artes forgotten by time. The rocks around them were debris from the battle suspended in the air like they were suspended in time forever the silent witness of what a war could bring given incommensurable powers.

A noise sounded in the background, like the Valley was growling at their presence, it sounded so far away that Mikleo concluded it was echoes of the wind hitting the mountain walls. There wasn't an ounce of wind ruffling his hair, though his twin capes remained limp behind him.

"That’s why we should learn from our elders and use it right." Rose said nudging Sorey.

"Let's not repeat the mistakes of the past." Sorey nodded.

Mikleo could only agree, feeling Sorey's words nest deep inside him, more a promise than a wish. A prayer to the Great Lords.

The look Lailah gave Sorey was very fond though Mikleo briefly detected an ounce of sadness, wondering where it could have come from. He made no comment about it. There was indeed a chance that it was his imagination or a play of the light.

"That's a good wish," Zaveid said as he passed by Sorey. "Now, we only have to find a way to cross that wretched place."

"Maybe we could windstep?" Alisha tried.

The slight hitch of Rose's breath was only perceived by Mikleo because she was close to him. He bit his lips, remembering that he never took the time to tell her that Dezel had tried to teach him how to windstep, only having time to teach him the basics. He had neither time nor the will to continue his training alone.

Zaveid was a wind seraph though, so Alisha’s idea didn't seem so farfetched.

With his hand on his hips, Zaveid walked until the end of the road, where it ended into a milky white void, the warped mist swallowing the ground. Gold eyes glinting as they narrowed, looking at the next bit of earth standing a few feet away as if suspended in thin air, Zaveid scratched his head.

"I don't think it would work." He shrugged, "I just can't read the flow. I'm not willing to risk everyone’s life on this. Heck, people have already crossed this place before so there must be a way. Sadly, I can't lift all of you, even with these guns." He flexed his arm, showing off his biceps.

Lailah nodded while putting herself in front of Zaveid to hide him from view, "Zaveid has a point. I do think we can rely on our artes, we don't know what could happen in this warped environment. I would suggest-"

She stopped, her eyes following something behind the rest of the group as it came up and down repetitively. A flush spread over her porcelain cheeks, "It seems that Attakk is trying to tell us something."

When they turned to acknowledge the Normin, he was still bouncing up and down like he had used the warped gravity hoping to be noticed. As it became apparent that no one had been paying attention to him, his movements became wild and he had pushed himself too far in a momentum, unable to stop bouncing. Mikleo could feel some culpability as he understood that the background noise he was hearing for a while was the Normin calling.

Attakk’s voice sounded winded as Alisha caught him and deposited him gently on safer ground, "I-huh," his helmet fell completely over his face muffling his words. He lifted it back up patiently, "I know how to navigate those currents! That's why I told you I could guide you in the first place." He sighed.

"Attakk is full of resource."

Lailah’s comment rebooted him and he smiled wildly.

Following Attakk in the maze of floating rocks, inverted gravity and uneven ground required large amounts of patience because most of the time they had to wait for the rock to lift them up acting as impromptu platforms or for the way to be clear as some large rock threatened to hit them in the head. It was dangerous and unpredictable, Mikleo keeping an eye on Sorey at all times, not trusting him not to do something inconsiderate in his need to see more of the incredible landscape around them.

He was barely restraining the same urge to be honest, but he could see how it was dangerous to navigate without knowing were the current would take them.

Sometimes the road was a little safer; resembling more of the path they used to enter the Valley. For Mikleo it was an obvious proof that it was remains of the road before the battle.

They couldn't properly tell how much time they spent wandering the place as it was like they were running in circles with no way to tell a rock apart from another but it was obvious that Attakk knew where he was taking them. It could have taken them hours or even days to cross the Valley without him. As it looked like the sky was becoming clearer, Mikleo decided he would make a special frozen dessert for Attakk to thank him after that.

"Ah! Rock fireflies! I won our bet, Mikleo, there is wildlife subsisting!"

Sorey went ahead of the group pointing to the small glowing bugs gently flying between a dead tree and a shadowy rock. Feeling his pride a little prickled when he should have noticed the fireflies before Sorey, Mikleo rolled his eyes.

"They may be here in passing. We didn't see any other animals and all the trees are dead." Mikleo broke a twig between his fingers to show his point.

"But there is wildlife! We have been lucky not to meet any so far. Animals and insects here are used to harsh condition but it makes them so fierce they are a bit aggressive." Lailah said.

"They must know how to hide very well!" Sorey was delighted to have his bet proven true, "You sound like you came here before." Sorey turned, looking around for said fauna.

Lailah avoided looking at them after Sorey’s observation, "I-that was…how much wood would chuck a woodchuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?"

She seemed so serious it was comical. Though no one seemed to have the answer to her question.

"Did you finally break Lailah?" Edna asked, deadpan.

Mikleo shrugged, not feeling bothered in the least by Lailah’s refusal to say more, it was her right after all, though he would have liked it if she would have used a less silly way to make them understand she couldn't talk about the matter.

"That’s our queue to stop asking questions." He said.

"And who broke Sorey?"

Frowning, Mikleo turned back toward Sorey. He shouldn't have taken Edna’s joke seriously but a cold sweat ran behind his neck making goose bumps crawl on his back. A bad feeling was making bile rise in his throat as cold sweat pooled on his nape.

Sorey’s head was tilted a bit upward, green gaze lost in the sea of floating platforms before them. He was mumbling and talking quietly with something they couldn't see, his face slack and devoid of expression.

"What's wrong, Sorey?" Alisha asked before Mikleo could swallow the lump in his throat.

"I… I can hear the voice again. "

Sorey sounded distant as color drained from his face. They followed his gaze and as the sky seemed to part Mikleo lost his breath, his exhale sounding like a thunderclap in the dead of the night

Entombed between the rocks, as if turned to stone by the millennia was a shape of a monster he knew well. His heart beat loudly in his ribcage like it wanted to fly away from this vision. Mikleo shifted closer to Sorey as he continued to look at the fossil.

"A Virage." Lailah breathed.

"It looks larger than the one we fought before. And it looks complete. The other one was missing its legs and one of its arms." Rose stated matter of factly.

Lailah’s hand covered her mouth in disbelief her eyes widening as she considered Rose before her. "You fought a real, living Virage?"

Rose seemed perplexed at Lailah, she had told the tale of that battle many times already but it only now came to her that she never did since Lailah joined the group. There was just not the time and Mikleo knew the wound was still fresh to Rose and that she’d rather not talk about a battle Dezel fought in. He bit his lips when Rose’s eyes shifted back toward the Virage, mouth closing when memories passed behind her eyes.

"It took the combined force of mine and Rose's Dragoon but we managed to stay alive." Mikleo provided.

"Those things… they are the worst weapon Hellions could come up with and- they-you would have-even if it wasn't whole! ...With just two Dragoon, baby Dragoons…And I would never had met you!" Lailah slightly panicked as she quickly measured all the opportunity, aware of the real danger they faced as novice Dragoons. She made grand gestures with her arm passing between Rose, Mikleo and Sorey as if needing to see they were intact.

Alisha's question sounded over Lailah's fussing. "Do you think it's still alive?"

"It's too dangerous to go." Sorey said, abruptly silencing everyone.

Noticing the trembling of Sorey's arm, Mikleo gently put his hand on his forearm, trying to attract Sorey's attention away from the Virage.

"The exit is right next to the monster. We're not gonna make it to the Malefore without going over this thingamajig. What about Emil, Lailah's spirit and that guy Lunarre you are looking for? We need to go that way." Attakk specified.

They all turned toward him, even Sorey.  He was finally breathing properly, his trembling easing under Mikleo's fingers while Sorey blinked at the Normin, his attention away from that vile thing. Mikleo let out a breath he wasn't aware of holding.

"Are you sure there isn't another way?"

Sorey seemed adamant on avoiding the Virage and Mikleo could easily understand why. After a while in the Valley he gradually had become accustomed to the nauseating feeling the place provoked but now in front of the fossilized Virage it was like he was assaulted by it, the distortion reaching him to his bone marrow. The conclusion was easy to make. The Virage probably was the source of the disturbance, the reason why the Earth Pulse couldn't reach the Valley anymore. It was the answer to Alisha's question:

"That thing is still alive." Mikleo said at the same moment that Attakk responded,

"Positive."

Lailah’s exhale left her lungs in a shudder," Then we better prepare to fight it."

Sorey palled and swallowed, yet Mikleo the moment determination settled inside him, "My spirit is ready."

"Mine too." Rose said as she pulled out her knives.

"Wonderful," Lailah clapped her hand, pleased by the news and somewhat relived, "Then it's the perfect opportunity to try double Armatization, with that we might stand a chance."

Mikleo was confused and a little unsure. When some ferocious monster on the road toward Tiberoa had them turn into Dragoons, gaining experience with their spirits, they never armatized since Kazas and Maltran. He wasn't sure they would be able to properly do it. He looked toward Zaveid and Rose but it was like the prospect wasn't as frightening for them as it was to him.

Casting a glance at Alisha, Mikleo was reassured to find out she was ready to fight as well. Though knowing it was irrational to think talking about armatus would remind Alisha of Maltran and that she would be troubled and anguished, Mikleo just had to make sure she was okay.

It was inspiring to see that she wouldn't let herself be affected like that.

"I'll armatise with Sorey." He said, confident he could do it.

He certainly never expected for Sorey to blush this intensely at the idea, "It's a bit intense." Sorey mumbled like he was trying not to be heard.

"I'm sure it would be perfect. Now you just need to tell him you true name." Lailah instructed.

Mikleo and Sorey shared a glance, and Mikleo couldn't help but to adorn a satisfied smile. "He already knows it.”

"You bet I already know it."

Lailah’s blush matched her dress, "Whoa."

Edna pulled her tongue out in disgust, Zaveid laughed heartily. Rose arched her brow as Alisha looked a bit lost. With a huge sigh, Attakk’s shoulder slumped while he looked at Lailah with adoration.

"That's cute." Then his face growing tense, he jumped back to lead them on the track, "Now follow me, maybe if we move slowly we won't wake it up."

For a moment, as they silently passed in front of the fossilized Virage, Mikleo thought that either Attakk brought them luck or he had freaked out for nothing and the Virage was actually dead for good.

But it lasted only for a moment. Until the large platform on which they were walking started to shake. The tremor made them unsteady as a dreadful noise echoed through the Valley. They all turned toward the fossil towering over them. From where the creature’s head was fallen between outspreading rocks, a light started to shine.

"Everyone run! Remember your position!" Lailah instructed.

The Virage light split the rock in two, and soon the beast rose from his earthen tomb in shaky movements. A long clawed arm pulled on the rocks to lift the rest of its massive body out.

It was the exact same creature as the one they fought in the volcano with the difference of it being complete. It had both its long legs to stand over the group, feet large enough to crush any of them with one step.

Mikleo was glad they had time to strategize. Observing the battle ground, as small as it was, allowed them time to properly decide where to stand not to fall into the Valley’s warped gravity. They had time to hide behind some rock before the creature when after them, separating in to groups to further trouble the Virage. Sorey was right beside him in this placement, which helped tranquilize Mikleo a bit, as the Virage rose in full height.

Sorey was frowning, obviously displeased that he couldn't just rush into the fight like he preferred but Mikleo knew that he would wait for Lailah’s signal as instructed. Mikleo risked a glance behind their hiding place, looking toward where he knew Zaveid and Rose would be.

He was just in time to notice Zaveid smile at him before the first arte landed on the Virage, making it flinch while its growl reverberated through the Valley. Zaveid's Geostigma was their signal. The arte engulfed the monster in a dark mist obscuring its sight, not that Mikleo could properly tell where its eyes were. It provided the right amount of distraction for Sorey to start on his part of the strategy, nodding at Mikleo he pulled out his Dragoon Spirit.

"Ready or not..."

The bright silver flame rose from Sorey's chest and he grunted in exertion as the powerful surge of mana rushed into him. Just as they had predicted, it attracted unwanted attention and the Virage turned its massive body toward them. Mikleo's eyes widened as it lifted its paw to claw at the rock sheltering them. Instinctively, he stood up before Sorey, arte ready to leave at his commend.

Scorching flames peppered the creatures skin, Lailah standing behind it, "Come here and look at me, you ugliness incarnate."

Mikleo breathed out in relief before his breath caught again when she yelped forced to duck when the Virage tried to claw at her, her tentative at distraction working a bit too much. It would be necessary to hold more control of his emotion if he wanted to go through this battle because as soon as he felt the beat of Sorey’s wings behind him, his transformation finally completed, Mikleo’s heart soared with him. He watched as the strange lighting of the Valley made mesmerizing highlights on his glass feathers.

Rose had joined him, her dark Dragoon form a startling contrast from Sorey’s radiance, even though Mikleo had to confess he was a bit biased. He was still as impressed by Sorey's armor as he was the first time he saw it, just like he noticed how Sorey couldn't look away from him when he turned. To be honest, Mikleo was still a little bitter of the fact that his own armor was so revealing.

Both flying Dragoons were occupying one clawed paw, allowing Zaveid and Lailah to fully come out of their hiding and making artes rain on the monster.

Edna joined them, her Rock Lance arte making the ground erupt in a pike at the Virage’s feet. She scowled the tiniest bit when he barely made the Virage step back.

Alisha stood near her, lance in hand though she was hesitant to advance, she was ready to act when necessary.

It was all it took for Mikleo to gather himself, noticing that he just stood there without doing anything. He ran toward the battle as one of Rose's daggers cut through the Virage. Her weapon stuck, she had to let it go when Sorey couldn't stop the other paw from reaching her in time.

All the while, the monster was trying to step on the grounded fighters. In order to avoid being crushed they had to dodge constantly which made them unable to cast stronger artes requiring more concentration. Contrary to what its size would suggest, the Virage was quick and reacted fast if somewhat clumsily.

The two Dragoon were like annoying bugs around it, and more than once he almost caught one of them as they tried to attack it. Mikleo was conscious that Dragoons forms were taxing and that Sorey and Rose couldn't hold on much longer.

Their fight was a beautiful sight to see as they seemed to dance in the air, twirling and jumping with effortless moves of their wings. Their blades shone the same color as their armor, their glass wings on their back were beautiful but deadly weapons while the Virage clawed and projected light beams after them. One claw grazed Rose's side as she tried to grab her embedded dagger, using her feet on the large arm as leverage.

Despite himself, a distressed noise left Mikleo's throat when the gash Sorey managed to slash on the monster's shoulder didn't even make it flinch. By now, he was moving on instinct alone, casting lower artes that he knew would barely distract the Virage. Yet, while he could feel his Dragoon Spirit responding, he had trouble turning.

He had to act. They needed the Armatization. But it was easier said than done. Something about the Virage was making Mikleo nervous, a visceral fear that he couldn't control. He had to remind himself that he already beat one with Rose. Remember that he even killed a Dragon using his Dragoon power. It was there inside him.

Telling himself that was one thing, willing to move was another. Mikleo was terrified. There were so many things he wanted to understand. Twice, Virages that hadn't moved in thousand years woke up at their contact. It was too much of a coincidence. Dezel had conjectured that was their hatred for the Dragoon that woke them up but Mikleo couldn't shake the feeling that Sorey was somehow linked to that.

Twice, he had heard voices when they neared the creature. Mikleo was truly afraid, horrified by his own thoughts that Sorey could have a link to Virages and-. No. He was close to Sorey all his life, he was his best friend, he had watched him, protected him, and loved him. He would know if something was different, right? Sorey had unnatural levels of resonance so that must be that. It had to be the right explanation, it-

"Mikleo! Look out!"

He was abruptly driven out of his train of thought as Lailah collided with his body. Unaware that he was spacing out in a middle of a fight, the blow had taken him by surprise and he couldn't brace himself for it. Mikleo was projected on the ground. Stupefied, he pushed on his elbow to rise just in time to see a strange bubbles resembling the distorted mist around them erupt from the creature face connect with Lailah were it should have been him.

She gasped, falling on her knees while clutching her ears. Mikleo’s whole body shuddered, his mouth opening in a silent cry.

"Lailah!" Sorey called, disengaging from the Virage to turn toward her.

"I'm fine." She responded, breathing hard.

Mikleo stood up, eyes wide and unable to draw a proper breath. His chest was so tight it hurt. He clutched at his heart, desperate to feel it beat. It was erratic, resounding in his ears. It was his entire fault.  Lailah was wounded because of him. He kept being mean to her, and she protected him without hesitation. He looked at Lailah without seeing her, only noticing her breathless state and that she was unable to rise up.

She turned back toward him, a shaky smile trying to be reassuring, "I'm fine, just a bit dizzy." She said loud enough to be heard by everyone.

Hands shaking, Mikleo pulled his lips into a straight line. It was time to wake up. He won't let something like that happen again.

The Virage had made good use of Sorey's short moment of distraction nearly catching him between his claws, Rose and Zaveid’s joined force stopped him before he could graze Sorey's wing. But it was a move too much for Rose who fell back on the ground, her armor dissipating with the rest of her mana. She was sweating profusely, gasping for breath and frantic as Alisha rushed to help her out of the Virage’s range. She would be able to turn back in a while, but not before Sorey ran out of strength too. Then they would be mere insects for the Virage.

Mikleo squeezed his eyes, banishing the image before his eyes. He pictured everyone, sitting by a fire and telling horror stories that made Rose laugh, he pictured their smiles, he pictures Sorey’s head tilted as his green eyes filled with emotion. The circlet on Mikleo’s forehead warmed. In time, he felt the rush of power inside him, heard the patter of rain, the crashing of waves and the flowing of water all at once. The next moment he was flying, giant hammer in hand.

It was heavy. The handle nearly slipped from his grip when he let it fall on the Virage’s arm, the drawback sending it away from grabbing Rose and Alisha. Zaveid had joined him in his jade green Dragoon form, glass wings pale yellow with orange outlines. Mikleo glanced at him. Both of his pendulums had turned to sturdy whip like chain, glowing orange red like they just came out of a fire.

His long hair was held in a low ponytail and held out of his eyes by a jade green headband with two decoration resembling dragon's fins on each side. The motifs engraved in it were surprisingly reminiscent of the cogs adorning Dezel's hat. Looking closely, Mikleo could tell that the short dark green vest that served as armor had the same design as Dezel's, it opened on Zaveid's chest and left it mostly bare except where an orange gem connected the two sides on the middle of his chest. It was strange but there was no questioning on how Dragoon spirits worked. Zaveid’s legs were entirely covered in armor. The motifs engraved prolonging his tattoo. His arms were protected by spaulders, giving him more range of movement.

Zaveid’s chain seemed to make the Virage’s body burn where it connected as small plumes of smoke rose from the monster’s skin. He was holding one of the Virage’s claws and was engaged in a war of tug with it. The strain on his face was visible, jaw clenched and brow furrowed. But Mikleo was certain he would hold just the right amount of time.

Mikleo’s eyes met Sorey's. He saw Sorey’s lips move but he heard the call of his true name deep inside himself, like a bell toll vibrating with his soul. When he breathed again and opened his eyes, he was facing the Virage. The weight of the hammer between his hands was replaced by something smooth and light, his finger lightly touching over it like it was made of glass.

It was a bow. A magnificent bow shaped like a gentle wave, blue, gold and white just like Sorey's armor should be. It was like it was the extension of his arm. He could feel it in himself.

"That…" he began.

He stopped, observing that the voice coming out of his mouth was Sorey's, "Pretty intense, right?" Sorey’s voice echoed in his head and he felt that surge of pride and joy that he was certain wasn't his but theirs. The armatus had made them one in the same body. Lailah didn't mention that; he thought.

"I know… it wasn't exactly like that last time." Sorey said, Mikleo’s voice mingling with his.

But he didn't need to tell, Mikleo could just feel it, Sorey allowing him access to everything he needed. He blushed, overwhelmed by the sentiment that Sorey could just look at him and see everything. But it came to him at the same time that it wasn't giving, but sharing, Sorey would never watch something Mikleo didn't want him to see. His doubts were his secret.

It was just impossible to properly describe how he felt right now. It was both beautiful but frightening at the same time but also incredible and fulfilling. They were one. Mikleo could just reach and feel all of Sorey's love, share his determination to win, his will to protect but he could also give everything of that to just feel drowning in each other…

The moment ended when the realization that they were fighting a mortal enemy came back. Sorey's distaste of the creature was tainted in pity and Mikleo smiled for how compassionate his love was. Virage weren't actual living creature.

Their hand lifted the bow, "With that, even with an aim as poor as yours we won't miss our target." They said, Sorey chuckling in answer, "Just focus."

They took a breath and let the flow of water rush into them. The incantation fell from their lips like it was a lullaby they knew by heart, learnt since their most tender years. They pulled on the bow string their form one of practiced archery and Mikleo could feel their wings expand behind them to accommodate the move. The arrows they realized left in burst of water flows, relentlessly striking the Virage before it had time to react. Their bow then changed into a blade on their arm, and with a single beat of wings they were rushing toward the creature’s softer middle and pierced through their target in an explosion of water.

The final strike drove them out of the armatus, energy spent they could only stand beside each other as the Virage stumbled backward, dark ichor oozing from the gaping wound on its body.

Drained, Mikleo fell on his knees, lungs expanding as he tried to draw a breath. The monster was falling. It was done.

As if a last moment of despair, the Virage’s beady eyes landed on Sorey, and Mikleo knew. He reacted on instinct, arms closing around Sorey as the Virage claw was about to fall on them, the blow from the armatus having projected them too far away from anyone to reach them in time.

Then light, so different from Sorey's Dragoon light, cold and harsh, flashed blinding Mikleo as he tightened his arms around Sorey. He could feel Sorey’s arms clutching at him in return, but Sorey’s head wasn't resting on his shoulder. He was watching as the light came from him in waves, hitting the Virage, halting the monster’s movements.

The Virage’s hand fell back against its body and it faltered back again and again until it reached the end the platform. Its large body stumbled backward, losing its balance before falling, silently accepting its fate as it was swallowed by the nothingness bellow them.

Mikleo slowly let go of Sorey, unsure, concerned. Sorey’s eyes were still focused on where the Virage was standing seconds before.

"Sorey! What was that! What did you do?"

Rose’s voice held fear, accusation, and Mikleo squeezed Sorey back against him.

"I-I don't know." Sorey responded, shaking his head.

Painfully, Mikleo lifted his eyes to look at Lailah and as their eyes met he opened his mouth, "It was Gramps blessing."

Rose seemed to be tranquilized by that statement, her brow furrowed but her shoulder slumped as she considered it. Her fingers were smoothing over the leather of her remaining dagger. Mikleo refused to think of what she would have with it.

"Yes, that was a Seraph blessing." Lailah backed him up.

Mikleo saw her give a strange look to Zaveid, hand clenching and unclenching at her side.

It wasn't a Seraph blessing and they all knew it.

Chapter Text

The first ray of sun pushing through the Valley warped mist felt like a beacon and the group was too happy to finally be back to a normal atmosphere to start discussing what happened with Sorey right away. They took some needed rest along the road but stayed mostly silent, and to be honest Sorey was grateful for that as he wasn't ready to talk yet. He didn't know if he wanted to think about it at all.

Still feeling the lingering gazes on him was making Sorey uncomfortable, accusations and wonder barely concealed from his friends' faces. It prickled his skin like when he had made something really stupid and Gramps was angry at him enough to literally breathe lightning. Mikleo was fussing a bit after him and he wouldn't have minded that, really Mikleo's hovering has something cute, but not this time. Not when he knew something was wrong. Truly wrong and he couldn't start to figure out why and Mikleo kept reminding him of that.

When Mikleo was brooding or thinking too much, he'd be all quiet and tense, contrary to Sorey who was growing restless and it was somehow disturbing the others' break.

 He needed to move, he needed a distraction. Sorey knew there was no point on thinking why. Why did he hear voices? Actually, he barely remembered what the voice said, only that it was a feeling like it was invading his mind and he wanted it out, so much different than his Dragoon spirit. Why did he fear the Virage that much? Was it his gut telling him that he needed to get away from that thing at all cost, that he needed to protect his friends? Why did Gramps put such an unusual blessing on him? Sure, Gramps loved him and the world was a dangerous place but… wasn't a blessing this powerful a bit excessive? No one here had the answer he sought. There was no point on dwelling on it, yet he couldn't stop himself.

Again he was grateful when they all decided it was time to head right toward the Home of the Gigantos, the only place that the Malefore gang could use as their hideout.  Soon, Sorey would be so preoccupied by ruins and discovery that he would stop asking himself questions and hopefully it'd reassure is friend as well. For now he could escape.

If he had to keep something from his thoughts it was that Gramps would be able to give him some answers, this much was obvious. He could only hope the other would come to the same conclusion because he just didn't want to talk about it.

The distraction worked more than Sorey hoped and even before they breached the ruins entrance, he could no longer think about anything else.

The home of the Gigantos was very similar to Lohan in its round shape. Stones and dirt were put into backfill to form a tall wall and to be used as a base for the constructions. From the inside it looked like the place was carved into stone. The air was a bit stale though and smelled strongly of old dirt.

Sorey held the Celestial Record up as he compared the drawing and description to what he had in front of his eyes. Wild plants had covered the roof and tops of stone monuments. A tree was even growing from inside a small home with a flat roof. It seemed like it had rained recently, even though the stones were warm from the sun because some of the grass on the roof appeared to be shining now that the sun was high enough to touch it. What looked like the main street had an entire wall with a huge alcove filled with stone statues. Many had fallen and were slowly eroded and covered by dirt. It wasn't a village but rather a stronghold, a place built for people twice as tall as the average human.

Gigantos were known to have sided with the humans and Seraph in the Dragon Campaign, yet the specie had slowly grown extinct and was thought to be legendary until the Celestial Record author found those ruins and ended the controversies.

Sorey looked at his book, perplexed by the differences he could see. "It's in a worse state than when the Celestial Record was written." He stated.

He concentrated once more on the surrounding, committing the ruin to memory before he could have some time to settle down and do a proper sketch.

Mikleo paused in his close observation of a destroyed mosaic to shrug, "Those are not Seraphic construction so there’s nothing preserving them from the ravage of time, I guess."

It was a shame, but with no one to take care of those ruins, it was normal for nature to take it back. While the prospect that these ruins might disappear and be forgotten one day made Sorey uncomfortable and churned his stomach, he knew that’s how nature and history went. There was still something he could do and it was to document everything he could, to give another outlet to Gigantos legacy.

"I hope we'll be able to come back here, after we find Gramps. There so many things we could learn about the Gigantos. It would be a waste to let those ruins fade without conducting proper research." He mused, voicing his thought.

"I would be glad to cooperate with Tiberoa to send researcher here." Alisha agreed, sharing Sorey's vision.

He smiled at her, glad that Alisha was so willing to preserve history.

About to lean on a wall, Rose hesitated after hearing the three's archaeological enthusiasm, instead she picked up a chip of stone from the ground and presented it to Sorey, "Like, you would know what they ate with just looking at what is left of their kitchenware?" she sounded skeptical but curious.

It lifted Sorey’s mood to know that he may have hope to show her how truly interesting history was. He looked at the chip of stone that she was offering. It's a good start that she seemed to have instinctively picked a fragment of pottery. Carefully putting his book back in his case, he accepted the pottery from Rose's fingers, appreciating the texture and the form before darting his tongue and licking it.

Rose made a face, "It wasn't literal! I though archeologist licking things was a legend. And I don't know if you proved me wrong or are just being your weird self again." She threw her arms, giving up on trying with Sorey.

Amused by her reaction, Mikleo chuckled. The sound like a soft bell chime to Sorey's ears, "That's actually one the best ways to tell bone apart from stone when you don't have tools at your disposal." He explained, before examining the pottery more closely, "Verdict?"

"Definitively ceramic. And not that old either, hundred to seventy year old."

This finding pulled at Sorey's heart. Knowing that this place was still inhabited not so long ago, that maybe if humans had more interest in other species, Gigantos could still be sharing their earth. It seemed that Mikleo saw right through him as he took the ceramic from Sorey's slack fingers.

"With the Malefore gang here we can't exactly be sure it was Gigantos' pottery." He stated.

Sorey smiled at him, nodding as he agreed with Mikleo without much debate. Their eyes met, the violet of Mikleo's eyes shining from the obvious fun he had exploring those ruins. Something was a little bit different since they had armatized. Now that his mind was a bit cleared from thoughts about the Virage and seraph's blessing Sorey could recognize it. He could almost feel that Mikleo was thinking of the same thing as they looked at each other. Warmth spread fast in his body as he recalled the sensation of infinite plenitude, the pouring inside him of Mikleo's thoughts and feelings like they were one and the same. There was nothing comparable.

 "Time to remember we are in enemy territory.  Stop dilly-dallying so we can proceed and get this over with." Edna said.

She abruptly forced Sorey to remember why they were here in the first place. A pang of guilt shot through his chest as he noticed that he had almost forgot about Emil. He also started to feel troubled by the idea that brigand were polluting this inestimable site, possibly destroying irreplaceable artifacts in the process.

He looked back at Edna, ready to apologize for wasting time. They would have time to explore after making sure Emil was safe and Lailah had her spirit back, Sorey should have remembered that.

 But Edna was already walking ahead of them, her short legs carrying her at a steady pace. She walked up the long set of well-preserved stone stairs leading further up the stronghold. It was almost like she was ready to take on the Malefore gang herself, her umbrella hiding her from the rest of the group.

Attakk looked distressed, "Miss Edna seems troubled."

"I guess that as all umbrella wielders, she must be feeling under the weather." Lailah’s pleasantry wasn't enough to alleviate the cold Edna's departure had left.

A loud sigh came from Zaveid and when Sorey looked at him he had his eyes turned toward the open sky, observing a flock of birds over their heads.

"Mik guessed right when he said this place was where Edna used to live. Must be hard on her that that Gang is defiling her birth place. Last time I came here that was with her brother, Eizen." He stretched his finger, "Guess she can't do all the cleaning by herself, right?"

Zaveid didn't wait for the other to follow on Edna's tracks. Sorey was perplexed.

 Lailah started to explain Seraphim birth to Rose and Alisha. It was a story Sorey was familiar with, feeling some lingering embarrassment as he remembered the time he asked Gramps how babies were made after a mountain Goat had one. Gramps had paled suddenly and started by explaining how seraph came to the world to stall the inevitable moment. But Sorey was a curious child, there was no way for Gramps to escape and they had expectedly started the talk about humans and sexuality.

Even today, it still stunned Sorey to remember his eloquent Gramps fumbling with words and how to explain to a child how he was different.

Nevertheless, Sorey knew that Seraphs like Edna and Mikleo didn't come to the world like humans do. They were born from place rich in mana which influenced their element. Usually it was from a breach where the Earth Pulse came near the ground surface. Being human himself he couldn't feel the Earth Pulse where the Great Tree roots went. Edna and her brother being born here must mean there was one close by. Seraph tended to stay near their birth place for a while, and Gramps said once that they kept a certain attachment to it all their lives.

As they moved to go after Edna, he couldn't help but to glance at Mikleo. It was rare but sometime Sorey wondered if Mikleo missed his birthplace.

"So there is an Earth Pulse thing here? I thought it was something with Seraphs loving abandoned ruins since we found Lailah in one as well." Rose said, pulling Sorey out of his memories.

"Hum, Seraphim do love solitude sometimes, but it has nothing to do with ruins. I just happened to live in that ruined Shrine because of the oath I made to keep the White Silver Dragoon spirit safe."

Rose seemed satisfied with Lailah’s answer humming her understanding, "I see, you must have loved that old Shrine."

Lailah smiled, "As I said, it had nothing to do with ruins, everything to do with my oath."

Mikleo beat Rose before she could open her mouth to retort, "But you could have taken the spirit with you and still be protecting it, unless your oath included for it to be protected within the Shrine walls."

It seemed to Sorey that Mikleo had aimed to end the argument before it started, however while Lailah smile remained, her perfectly manicured brow twitched. There clearly was something she was unwilling or couldn't tell them at all, yet she wanted to make a point and the other where being difficult.

"She wasn't alone there, Lucas was living in the shrine as well, remember?" Sorey said, reminding the others that there was something besides ruins that could have kept Lailah there.

Rose's smile turned mischievous and Sorey blinked realizing that he may have made a mistake somewhere.

Sensing danger Lailah held her arm up walking faster ahead of the group, "Ahah ! Look! Edna and Zaveid are waiting for us." She exclaimed.

The stairs ended before a small courtyard giving an overview to the living quarters below should they turn to appreciate it. Only, Sorey’s breath was taken away by what extended in front of him past the courtyard. As his eyes took on the fortified wall marking the entrance of what must be the Stronghold command center, his jaw dropped in awe. The wall was made of large carved stones faces, each different from the other. Two statues of warriors faced each other on top of it, their axes blending in with the carved archway behind them marking the entrance. It was so well preserved too. The gate was closed though, by a round disc of stone adorned in the ancient dialect Sorey had observed in scattered bits throughout the ruins.

"What took you so long?"

Edna was still grumpy, her opened umbrella twirling steadily behind her shoulder.

As if responding to her, laughter rose from the carved faces and before Sorey could take his mind away from the sight, cloaked men raised one after the other from the patrol path hidden behind the marvelous piece of art.

Like in their previous encounter, crossbows were pointed at them. Sorey saw Zaveid’s finger twitch as he itched to send his pendulums after them, but they were too high up, it was obvious he couldn't reach them. Pulling out his weapons would be risking angering them into firing so Zaveid waited.

"Isn't it the guys from before? You managed to get all the way here ?"

Now that he looked at them, Sorey recognized the cloaked men from Donau just as Attakk raged, "We came to make you regret ever stealing from Donau!"

A round of raucous laughter echoed again.

"Its almost cute, shall we play a bit?"

There were others Sorey had never met before; they were five men in all. The fight would have ended in a matter of second if the bandits hadn't used their surroundings wisely. Now they were in the direct line of fire with potentially deadly bolts. But Sorey and the others came prepared, they were ready for eventual ambushes, plus the brigand strategies were lacking in variation. It was the same tactic they used the first time and it didn't end well for them. Sorey braced himself, hand poised on his sword.

"The boss said we are not to kill them, but we could make them dance."

The first bolt was sent with the noise of strings pulling and wood clanking. It stopped right before Attakk’s feet. Eyes huge, the Normin started trembling then cowered in fear behind Sorey.  But then after some seconds he started screaming, the noise ringing in Sorey’s ear. He turned right in time to see two other Brigand jump from the carved walls to cut their retreat, Attakk's helmet falling over his face as he barely avoided being kicked by one of them.

Sorey and Rose shared a smile, "You should have stayed safe with the others." She said, her blades shining as she twirled them between her fingers.

"Try not giving damage to the statues!" Sorey threw behind his shoulder as he and Rose engaged the brigands.

Lailah’s light chuckle was drowned by the sounds of their fight while the bolts that followed were either burned or thrown away by strong gusts of winds. Water made the brigand before Sorey stumble and he was quickly down with a right sweep of a ceremonial sword. Rose and Alisha dispatched the other without allowing him time to understand where the blows came from.

The rain of bolts increased, Lailah twirling and dancing to catch them all in her flames. She casted arte after arte to turn the wood to cinder while ash gently fell all around her, making noise of delight all the while and enjoying herself.

"I can do that all day!" She said.

It wasn't possible for the bandits to have infinite ammunition, and even though they seemed stupid enough to try it was obviously useless to continue firing.

"Damn those nimble rats!" One of them screamed in frustration letting go of his crossbow in a fit of anger.

"I was hoping they would be worthy opponents," revered silence followed the voice.

The man who the voice belonged to crossed the courtyard before stopping in front of the gate, facing the group. He appeared to be wearing different cloth than the others and let his cloak fall to reveal that he wore a leather breastplate and pants, a lighter version than the other bandits wore. What retained Sorey's attention the most was that he had two daggers scabbard strapped to his tights. The man smiled at the group under his fellow brigand's encouragements while he pulled his weapons from their sheath.

He held both daggers in front of him, blade turned toward the ground and feet poised in a steady stance. Rose’s back went rigid as the man assumed his fighting stance, the corner of her mouth pulled downward.

"That pose… the Rangetsu Style..." She mumbled, almost like she didn't want to be heard.

Being close enough to her, Sorey heard and frowned wondering what she was hinting at. Yet he didn't comment, because Rose wasn't one for subtlety.

"Hey you! That’s the Rangetsu style, isn't it? Where did you learn that?" She asked without preamble.

 The bandit seemed rather surprised at Rose's question, but regained his composure soon enough, "That's an answer you’ll have to win out of me!"

Metal clashed against metal as Rose dashed to meet him, anticipating his fast approaches. The man jumped back but and tried to retaliate. His attempts were met blow for blow, though, Rose never letting him get close. Their style was so similar it was like seeing a mirrors reflections fighting against each other. After a few minutes that impression disappeared as it became clear that Rose was faster, her movements more refined like they were instinctual, and that she was gaining ground over her adversaries.

It appeared that Sorey wasn't the only one noticing this because, as anger rose from the bandits ranks those who had no bolts left climbed down the wall to go after the rest of the group. Occupied by his bandit, Sorey was unable to pay close attention to Rose anymore.

They were all still tired after their fight with the Virage, their enemies coming after them in numbers.  But they were disorganized, running at them without care and with Mikleo to take care of his back Sorey dealt with two of them in no time. His muscles didn't even start to heat.

He frowned as the bandit fell to the ground, unconscious. They preyed on the weak not using their skill but through their superior numbers, those were the feared Malefore gang. It was hard to believe no one did anything to stop them. Then remembering the king’s odd behavior, Sorey felt the same impression that Prince Boris must have had. Something was off.

When Sorey turned back to Rose, she had her adversary down on the grown, holding her dagger in front of his throat as she crouched over him. It was rare to see such a flame in her blue eyes.

"The Rangestu style is an old secret martial art transmitted only to the members of the Scattered Bones. You must have a connection to them." she accused.

Alisha flinched at the tone of her voice, wringing her hands like she wanted to help Rose calm down. The man cowered, his throat bobbing as he swallowed. Sorey knew he should be stopping her before she did something regrettable, though her question seemed legitimate. Yet he stood ready to intervene.

"Rose, you don't need to-" Mikleo tried but stopped when she glared back at him.

She went back toward the man, her voice turning into a menacing growl, "Was it Lunarre?"

The man blinked in confusion, she pushed the dagger further into his throat drawing blood, "No! I don't know any Lunarre! I swear it was the boss! Malefore! He taught me!"

Rose's shoulders dropped the tension with them. It was like a collective sigh of relief was breathed. The bandit nearly fainted as the dagger's pressure left his skin.

"My boss used to be part of some mercenary group, like fifteen years ago but he was kicked out. Then he became a bandit!" It seemed he wasn't done talking though, his tongue running loose without being prompted.

It was Rose’s turn to blink in confusion. Sorey didn't know how old she was exactly and he wasn't willing to ask considering Lailah’s reaction to the same question, but he was certain she must have been a child fifteen years ago. Then her eyes lit up like something suddenly came back to her.

"Malefore. I think I remember him." she mumbled again to herself.

"So, he is hiding himself inside, huh?" Edna said.

With the menace of Rose's dagger away from his vital point, the bandit seemed to recover some of his spark, "Yes! But he is ten times stronger than any of us. There is now way you'll defeat him."

Raising a brow, Edna looked as unimpressed as she was the day she met Mikleo, "We'll see." she deadpanned.

She strolled toward the gate, curious eyes watching her every move, then she closed her umbrella. A deep look of concentration settled over her soft features as she suddenly drew back her left arm. Her ungloved hand formed a fist and she braced herself, boots digging into the soil to anchor her.

Her fist impacted the round gate hard, the sound of the rock cracking reverberating like a thunderclap against the walls. The gate fell down into rumbles, liberating the way. Edna turned back toward the group looking as fresh as a flower.

"Shall we proceed? I want those rats out."

Sorey was speechless, lips trembling as he looked at the remaining piece of the ancient gate, he turned his eyes away only when Mikleo clutched at his sleeves,

"We should go before she proceeds to destroy more inestimable artifacts." He breathed.

Edna turned sharply, holding her umbrella high on her shoulder again as she led them into what seemed to be remaining of the stronghold main courtyard. Most of the passageway leading to the outer wall and towers had crumbled. The only usable series of stairs left led to the most intact building. Although most of its roof had crumbled on itself, Sorey could see the grand entrance if he lifted his head. But his eyes were on the courtyard, observing what must have been a vast garden. There was nothing much left but few crumbled stones and dirt, some half rotten weapon racks and downed statues. Grass and moss covered most of the stones that the sun could reach.

There was an altar that seemed out of place, bare and cleaner. Made with bricks, it held a small carved statue. The art style was completely different. Edna walked right toward it. She dusted the altar surface and that’s when Sorey noticed the quivers running through her small body.

 "Maybe Meebo needs glasses, I thought Meebo was an archaeologist, yet he couldn't see this gate wasn't like the rest of the ruins. It was my brothers' gate, you dummy." She said rolling her eyes.

Zaveid chuckled, a saddened glint flicking into his eyes, "I kinda recognized Eizen taste for art."

Sorey caught her before her knee gave way and strangely enough she let herself be held. Now that he could touch her skin Sorey found out it was clammy, her arms shaking like a leaf.

"Ouch." She mumbled, massaging her muscles.

"Oh, Edna. Here let me heal you." Lailah's hands formed a healing arte before Edna could protest.

"Are you all right? That was quite the stunt you pulled up there."

Her tremors were easing slightly but the fact that she still hadn't pulled out of Sorey's hold was concerning enough, but then she began to dramatically fan her face with her hand.

"And you should thank me for what the feeble and puny lady Meebo couldn't do. And by that, I mean removing the gate. I'm alright. I just feel it in my bones when I use my ability the Giant's Strength."

She waved dismissively at Sorey now finally able to stand on her feet. She sported a satisfied smile as Mikleo started to sputter.

"I could have opened that gate! Water can make rock crumble!"

"I thank you very much, lady Edna for granting us your Giant's Strength when lady Meebo couldn't remove the gate." Sorey nodded, faking seriousness but failing when couldn't contain his snort anymore.

"Sorey! Not you too!"

Mikleo finger tried to slip past Sorey's arm to reach his ribs.

"Huh, guys? Where is Rose?"

Rose used the shadows to her advantage. Since she had joined Sorey she hadn't needed the cover of her mask, now missing it as she gingerly touched her cheek, like a phantom move to pull it over her face. It struck something into her chest and she pushed it away, not needing emotion right now. This was Brad's legacy, this was still the ways of her guild.

It's been a while since she had let her own anger take over her, but with everything concerning Lunarre, Rose was learning the hard way that her training could be forgone. The mere possibility that those bandits could have used her fighting style because of him made her blood boil. More than anything, Rose wanted him to pay for Dezel.

 Fortunately it wasn't Lunarre. Yet if she was correct and Malefore was a former member of the Wind Riders it was her duty to take care of him.

She was a child when Brad had chased away his former apprentice and she barely remembered him. Still, she remembered her adoptive father’s deception, the way he’d withdrawn from her for a while… One of the rules of her group was when one was evicted he was to be forgotten, no one was to talk about that person anymore. It was the same with Lunarre.

She shook her head, mentally dispersing the fog of her memories. Rose needed to stay focused on the present.

Another rule was that an evicted member was never to be heard of again.  Those joining the group signed the contract and knew that breaking that last rule was a death sentence. It never happened in Brad's time, Malefore being the only one she could remember ever leaving the group. But the rules were still valid even if the Wind Riders weren't. Rose couldn't leave it like that if Malefore formerly one of them, had turned into a bandit and terrorized villages in Tiberoa. It would have been Brad’s responsibility to remind that man of the Wind Riders contract, just like Lunarre was Rose's.

That's why she left the others behind. They didn't need to see this. Rose was reluctant to involve them with the darkest part of her. She had climbed the stairs leading back into the part of the fort that had yet to crumble, entering the dark building without looking behind her.

She knew it would be over in no time.

Her eyes needed to adjust to the sudden darkness so she held herself against a wall when voices reached her ears. Curious, Rose followed the sound until it became intelligible, staying hidden against the wall.

"It seems they came all the way here boss."

She knew that voice, biting her lips Rose leaned closer against the wall as Varley went on.

"The pebble I took from the woman must be something super important after all."

Scrunching her nose in distaste, Rose had no choice but to hear him guffaw like stealing from Lailah was the funniest thing he ever did. A loud sigh responded to Varley, and a bored sounding voice started to talk.

"There are too many people who don't care about their lives. That brat from Donau too."

Rose perked up, was that man talking about Emil? He must be. Carefully, she risked a glance at the room were the men were discussing to better assess the situation. To her disappointment, it seemed that Emil was nowhere in sight. Varley was alone with another man. They stood in a large round room, lit by torchlight. A large crudely carved stone stood on the other end of the room, it was engraved and sculpted like a throne. The other man was sitting right on it.

He was of average height, almost dwarfed by the stone throne he was sitting on. It was lit enough in the room for Rose to distinguish his features. He had sharp black brows, a white hat covered his dark hair and fine clothes over his body almost like he was coming from some lesser noble family.

Vaguely Rose remembered that it may have been the case.

"Let's just kill that kid. I don't care that he is the mayor’s son." Varley protested.

They were indeed talking about Emil. Rose breathed deep, relieved that they weren't too late and the boy was alive, yet worried that he might have been armed. It was starting to be hard to hold herself from how much she wanted to break her cover and kick this jerks ass. Her hand closed around her dagger handle and she squeezed the pressure a welcomed comfort.

"We won't need the ransom anymore with that woman with us." Varley continued to run his mouth under Malefore’s bored glance.

This attracted Rose’s attention, bringing her back when the Prince asked for their help to her complete amazement. She was still not over that a Prince really had asked commoners for help in states matters. She couldn't believe he trusted them enough to do that. To be fair, he had asked Alisha first.

Nevertheless, Rose felt she was getting close to learning about something important so listened more closely.

"Now is a good chance because the woman is in control of the palace… it would be a piece of cake to take over this country."

Rose couldn't believe it. It seemed that Prince Boris's presentiment was right after all, or some other woman in power was close to those bandits. To Rose right now, they most certainly were talking about the Princes.

 That was their plan, though? Did they really hope they could take over a country without the neighboring country reacting? Granted, Serdio was still recovering from its own war but Rose knew it would only take them this much to start a new one.

"My only want is to live free. If she wants the power, I'll give it to her." Malefore said.

Varley was displeased to say the least, his face fell, "Boss! You are going to be taken advantage of, being a wimp like that."

Malefore’s jaw clenched but he said nothing, holding his head with his palm.

"We found you, Rose! Why did you disappear like that?"

Rose wanted to hit something. She really thought the others would take more time looking for her. If she had taken to herself to look more closely at the ruins, Rose would have found out that there weren't that many places to search for someone anyway. But she didn't and now, Sorey's voice gave her position away.

Growling at him, she stepped out of hiding turning right toward Malefore. "Long time no see, Malefore. It looks like you are doing well."

"The girl from before!" Varley exclaimed pointing at her.

Malefore rose from his throne towering over the room as Rose’s friends filled the space. He looked over them with the same frowning look he displayed while talking to Varley. His eyes narrowed at Rose, like he was really trying to figure out if he should recognize her. If he couldn't tell who Rose was from his memories alone, at least she knew he would recognize her stance.

Rose stepped up, holding her daggers.

"You are one of Brad's brats."

Rose rolled her eyes

"He really was part of the Wind Riders," Lailah whispered.

Varley looked at Malefore then back at Rose considering, then as recognition settled inside him, he took out his own weapon standing over the group.

"This is the place you die." He menaced

"Malefore is mine, guys." Rose pointedly ignored him.

"No." Sorey protested, "We are an honorary part of your guild, remember? Malefore is our responsibility too."

Once again, Rose couldn't believe her ears, she had to turn back to see Sorey’s expression to see that he wasn't joking. In doing so she met the rest of the groups' eyes, seeing their support and agreement to Sorey's statement made something swell in her chest. She had to remember to breathe properly. It was nice though.

"Guys" she shook her head, there was nothing left to say here.

"It’s a shame you won't be able to tell Brad I thank him for kicking me out back then. I had no future with those Weakling Wind Riders, Brad’s ways had no places in this world and that's why he got killed in the end."

Malefore’s nasal voice gritted on Rose's nerves, her jaw clenched but she remembered not to be affected by the taunt.

"He trusted you with the Rangestu style, yet you wield it to terrorize innocents. You know the sentence for that." She answered, pointing her dagger at him.

"Enough talking!"

Varley’s sword was blocked by Alisha's lance.

The talking was indeed done and Malefore profited from the distraction to go straight for Rose. She stopped his own twin daggers as he aimed for her throat.

 As the other thief warned, he was stronger and faster than a mere bandit and she was surprised. She riposted with a kick, trying to dislodge him from her.  His form leans as he started to run around the throne room. He used artes familiar to Rose, drawing invisible traps.

"Careful were you step," she warned the others.

The Virage had left Rose drained out of her mana, thus unable to hear her Dragoon spirit's song. She would bet it was the same with the others.

Alisha and Sorey were occupied with Varley while Mikleo teamed with Lailah to stop reinforcements that came from behind.

In their first fight it seemed the cowardly man had hidden his true strength because even teamed up, Rose’s friends had difficulty dealing with him. Varley struck hard, Sorey's arm trembling slightly under the strain of a parry.

Zaveid sided with Rose in stopping Malefore’s evasion. She felt the warmth of a familiar wind heat her muscles as a wind arte boosted her.

Malefore tried to hit her again, their daggers clashing as she deviated him. At least he seemed to be able to keep his moves unreadable. He did a cartwheel, and then plunged at her.

"You remember the style well." Rose allowed him that.

She stepped back, Malefore’s knife slashing the air. She used his momentary imbalance at (to) her advantage, feinting she turned on herself and sent a kick to the man’s ribs. He flinched, she smiled.

"But there are things Brad only taught to the best."

Sensing danger, Malefore crossed his arm to block but it was already too late, Rose had him exactly were she wanted him to be.

"This is the Jade Luminescence!"

Rose was so fast it was like she had disappeared, Malefore unable to follow her anymore. The slashes she delivered to him were fast a relentless, but he held on while breathing heavily. Then she slid on the ground, right into his guard the strong kick that followed made him falter, the clatter of his dagger dropping out of his hand rang like a death sentence.

Rose's expression was blank as she crossed her daggers and slashed through his chest.

Malefore looked at the warm blood pouring into his hand like he had trouble processing what happened. His eyes held interrogation, because surely that couldn't be his blood. He fell against the steps of the stone throne.

Varley was face first on the ground, held by Alisha's spear, he seemed to be unconscious. Sorey came to Rose's side, she could tell he was avoiding looking at Malefore.

"Is he gonna make it?" Sorey asked.

He should have known that if Rose hadn't intended for her attack to be fatal, a Seraph would have already stepped up to stop the blood flow. But Malefore was in front of her, looking right into her eyes with a content smile.

"Tch, that man…all he talks about is honor but then he uses children to kill…"

Rose’s lips pulled tight, "I have my one objective. The Wind Riders are no more, you said so yourself. People didn't follow because Brad wanted them too. I don't kill for Brad. I kill to keep my family safe, and you were tarnishing our name and our code."

The chuckle Malefore let out was stopped by a coughing fit, blood falling from his open lips. The wound on his chest was deep, his silky cloth staining.

"I have to admit… I'm glad it was one of his best students." Malefore leaned against the stone, slowly relaxing as his breath started to heaven. "I always was… under my families watch. He gave me some sense of freedom… for a while. But then… she used my old ties to force me into this… we switched the Prince with her."

He coughed again and Lailah came to his side, healing some of his pain away. Rose said nothing still staring blankly at him.

"What?" Alisha gasped, finally leaving Varley to stand before Malefore.

Malefore unfocused gaze followed her voice and he blinked at her, "The real one is still inside the castle, hidden… you can still…do something."

His lids fell over his eyes one last time and he sighed. A smile adorned his sullied lips. He was at peace.

"May these weary bones find peaceful rest."

Chapter Text

Bright light drizzled out from below the throne when it moved out of the way to reveal a hidden passage. Stone grinded against stone plunging the group into a stunned silence while Edna stood with the corner of her lip uplifted, fingers still poised on the cleverly hidden lever she had pulled.

"Who's the ruin expert now?" She said.

If someone was to reply, Attakk beat them as he ran into the freshly opened passage while calling after Emil, his scream echoing against the stones. The fact that other bandits or other traps could await him inside went completely forgotten, Attakk throwing caution by the wind in his haste to save his friend. Mikleo’s mind raced knowing that he had to protect the Normin from any potential danger, all it took was a glance shared with Sorey and they both followed Attakk into a well-lit but narrow staircase, weapons in hand.

"Emiiiilllll! Are you in there?"

 The passageway ended into a high ceilinged room under the throne room that must have been about the same size. It was kept lit by a hanging lamp that cast strange looking shadows on the corners. It smelled stale and moldy. The ground was littered with trinkets, weapons and all kinds of things that didn't belong to ancient ruins. It was put in neat piles, though it seemed there wasn't any classification of what was being kept. It pulled at Mikleo's heart to see that ancient treasure room now sheltering loot and things stolen from citizens of Tiberoa.

He glanced at Sorey and was overwhelmed by the need to make the frown on his lips disappear.

"It looks a lot like your home back in Elysia, Sorey." Mikleo couldn't stop himself.

Revenge tasted sweet. He smirked pleased by the change in Sorey's expression. "Mikleooo," Sorey protested weakly, eyes still roaming the room.

Mikleo's smirk was erased the moment he noticed the weird frown over Sorey's features, and where he had expected to get a rise out of him, his love barely spared him a glance. Biting his lips, Mikleo recalled the way Sorey had watched as Rose left the throne room to go bury Malefore somewhere in the ruins, giving him a last chance at dignity.

Mikleo had to admit he had barely been affected by the human's death. Malefore and his gang were oppressing Tiberoa's people and it couldn't end right for him. But he knew Sorey was a bit shaken after Rose was the one to kill the man.

He now understood better why Sorey often distracted him when he was overthinking because he actually felt the same urge at this moment. His new weapon of choice being kisses and affection had proven really effective. But Mikleo was more embarrassed by public displays of affection than Sorey ever will be. Also, he knew that Sorey only needed some time to reach his own answer. It wouldn't serve him in the long run.

So Mikleo did the only thing he could do to help Sorey, he brushed their hands together. Sorey sighed as he took his hand and squeezed it which was the confirmation Mikleo needed.

 While Sorey finally turned toward Mikleo, eyes loving and lips parting to vocally acknowledge Mikleo's support Lailah and Zaveid came down the stairs in turn. Lailah’s hands came to cover her mouth barely stifling the gasp at the scene before her. Her eyes were shining with mirth while Mikleo could feel his cheeks heating. Sorey didn't let go of his hand.

"We certainly can't leave the love birds alone for five seconds." Zaveid commented grinning wide.

At that Lailah gently slapped his shoulder, "Would you cut them some slack."

"The fact that you can't get any doesn't mean everyone should refrain in solidarity. And calling them out for that is my privilege." Edna's voice echoed against the wall of the staircase. She was still upstairs, standing guard.

Mikleo hid his whole face behind his hand. It seemed that Sorey was reluctant to give the other back yet.

Attakk was climbing atop a pile of cloth to better see the whole room, "Emiiil?" Attakk tried again, lower this time, ignoring of the scene behind him.

His voice had turned weak, like he wasn't expecting an answer anymore. It was truly disheartening to hear the disappointment and the worry in his voice and Mikleo felt almost ashamed when Sorey released him.

A groan finally answered him and everyone turned toward the far wall. The shuffling of cloth that sounded next made Attakk react, a new hope spreading with the smile on his face.

It was hard to see because it stood in the darkest corner of the room but now that they could properly look at it the far wall looked to be in fact a makeshift door closing an adjacent room covered in pieces of rags to dim the light coming from the main room. The rickety wooden bars shook when hands closed around them.

"Is that you, Attakk?"

The voice finished giving life back into Attakk and his tiny feet ran right toward the door, his hands closing around the bars he started to pull on them. His whole body strained under the effort.

"Emil! Martha is worried sick! "Attakk pulled hard, groaning in his effort but the door barely moved, "It’s closed I can't open it." He added, renewing his efforts.

A blond head became visible between the holes of the rags covering the cell door, green eyes blinked slowly and finally Attakk backed away. He nodded, determinate as warm light started to concentrate into the Normin's hands.

"Move back, I'm gonna blast this."

Mikleo flinched. Even with a high ceiling, the treasure room was small and not well aired. An explosion in such environment was risky. Attakk’s emotions seemed to hinder his rational thinking.  In reflex, Mikleo was putting himself bodily in front of Attakk when Lailah stepped up, a key dangling between her fingers.

"This was nailed to the wall. I think it open it." She said, lowering herself to the Normin’s height.

The arte faded away from Attakk’s hands as his helmet fell over his eyes. He pulled it up, with what sounded like an embarrassed laugh, "Thanks lady Lailah."

The door hinges hissed loudly and it echoed against the ceiling making Mikleo fully aware that they indeed had avoided a catastrophe for their hearing sense. And maybe more damage than he could have anticipated. That amount of mana gathered in Attakk's hand was still crackling in the air, making the hair on Mikleo's nape raise. There was hidden strength in that tiny body.

"If your brawn doesn't work, you should use your brain." Zaveid told Sorey nudging his side.

Mikleo rolled his eyes, "Look who's talking." He mumbled.

Emil was lying down in his cell, looking at the group like he wanted to ask something but blinking like he couldn't focus. His lightly tanned skin was paler on his face, his mouth hanging open then closing as he gulped in breath.

"Did they do something to you? Are you injured somewhere?"

Attakk was already beside him, holding the young man’s face as he checked for any injury. Emil seemed to be sweating and his dark blue tunic was dusty and his pant torn, moreover his lemon green eyes wouldn't stay focused on one thing. Mikleo was already concentrating to cast a healing arte before Emil confirmed an eventual mistreatment.

"M'fine…drugged I think. They had enough of me insulting them. Cowards"

His smile was encouraging, his words more so. He tried to stand up as Mikleo’s purifying arte started glowing on his skin. Mikleo frowned because he hadn't anticipated the purifying of toxin from the boy’s system and maybe should have cast a more powerful arte. The idea that other bandits could be still lurking in the ruin had him instinctively conserving his strength.  Nevertheless, Emil’s face regained some colors.

"Who are those people?" Emil asked as Mikleo searched his supplies for the appropriate fruit gel, completing the work of his arte.

"They are my pals! We are traveling together for a variety of reasons!" Attakk reassured.

Perplexed, Emil still took the fruit gel away from Mikleo's hands and bit into it. After a few seconds he took a huge gulp of breath as he tried to lift his body. He gladly grasped Sorey’s helping hand as he stood up, looking at the group as he dusted his dirtied clothes.

"You came all this way to such a dangerous place. You must be strong people."

Sorey let out a close lipped laugh, Emil's words sounded like a compliment but his eyes held the intention of a challenge. The boy was someone who liked to fight, Mikleo could tell.

He could only hope that he would wait before trying to test Sorey's skills. Mikleo almost wished that Rose had come down instead of staying upstairs with the other  girls. She would have known how to tame that lust for a fight away from Emil right away.

"You showed courage too. But it was still foolish to come hear alone." Sorey said, holding Emil's glance.

Emil’s face changed then, and he crossed his arms over himself, "I really thought… no one else was willing to move and I really thought I could persuade their chief to leave Donau alone."

He seemed genuinely disappointed that his broken plan didn't work out.

"You are courageous and strong, but good intentions aren't always the best weapons again foolish men." Attakk shook his head, hand patting Emil's leg, "You made Martha worried, and Neif too. You coming back home in one piece is all they ask."

At that Emil blanched again, "Shit, Martha. She's going to kill me."

"She will! That's what you get for leaving her out of that!" Edna's voice sounded again.

Emil visibly shuddered.

"Ah! Those are from Donau's Museum!" Attakk suddenly exclaimed.

 The Normin's skin visibly crawled when his eyes landed on a painting haphazardly thrown against barrels. He quickly went toward the upturned painting and righted it while grumbling and proffering menaces Mikleo barely could hear as he dusted the picture. A satisfied expression shone on his features as he discovered the painted green eyes of a blond boy was intact.

Lailah's reaction to it was so strange that Mikleo thought he had imagined it, but she still had the tiny smile on her lips her eyes looking at the frame and not at the picture.

"Who's the boy on the picture?" Mikleo felt the impulse to ask.

Attakk blinked then smiled, pleased by Mikleo's interest, "The youngest cartographer and expert on the ancient tongue that ever lived. His portrait is the jewel of Donau's collection." Puffing out his chest, he stepped aside to allow full view of the painting. "Ah! It must mean the rest of the stolen objects are here! "He promptly went to dig inside the next pile.

"I'll help you." Emil said, "They were throwing all the things they stole here."

"He has a haunted look." Sorey commented, tilting his head in consideration as he looked more at the painting.

Lailah clapped her hands together, "Then my Dragoon's spirit must be here too!"

Following Attakk's and Emil's example, she started to look around for her stone. Sorey’s search was careful as he displaced one object after the other to access those underneath. Mikleo had his attention focused every time he spotted something red and finally his eye caught it lying on the dirt between a rolled carpet and a basket of smelly fruits.

"Fount it."

The spirit felt warm as he held it in his palm, the red glow was dull but still shining, unaltered. He handed it back to Lailah, a bit surprised that it felt so much different than his own spirit.

As soon as it landed in Lailah's outstretched palm, the stone shone so brightly that it became uncomfortable to look at, it was like the light was singing gently, happily. Lailah beamed, holding the stone against her chest.

"It seems happy to meet you again." Sorey said.

Mikleo caught a hint of curiosity in Sorey's eyes and he was certain that he must have the same one right now. Dragoon spirits were a mystery they had itched to know more about but even though they both were chosen, it felt like they barely scratched the first layer of dust hiding the answers to all their questions.

Right now, Sorey’s words felt like the truth. Like that ancient stone had a will of its own.

"I'm happy to have you back, old friend." She said, closing her eyes as she basked in the glow.

The relief on Lailah's face was so intense that Mikleo could almost touch it. Now he felt even worse after snapping at her. It was obvious she cared a lot for her spirit, that it was more than a glowing stone for her. The least he could do to make amends was to try to be kinder to Lailah and support her. Still, Mikleo flinched when he thought he would never be able to support her bad puns.

Eventually, the light dulled and the spirit again became a mere stone. Lailah pocketed it, checking twice that the pouch hidden in her dress was secured.

Mikleo looked back at Emil and Attakk, their arms full of artworks that must be part of Donau's collection. Knowing that Emil will be okay now was more pleasing than he would have anticipated. It fluttered in his chest and made him want to smile at them. 

"We need to go back to Fletz as soon as possible. Malefore talked about a woman impersonating the Prince. It seems Sergei was an imposter after all. We need to tell Prince Boris. "He said.

Attakk's face fell a bit, eyes going teary as he looked between Emil and his new friends. "I have to go back to Donau with Emil."

Night had fallen through the Barren, forcing the group to camp under the stars. The night was silent, the cracking of the fire barely heard over Attakk's light snoring. The Normin and Emil will separate from them tomorrow, going back to their village and adding up to the list of friends they had made since leaving Elysia.

Laying back turned to him, eyes away from the light of the fire, fast asleep after having finally exhausted his energy; Sorey's presence was Mikleo's comfort. He inched closer, feeling safe and happy. Again they were left in the dark about Gramps whereabouts but for once Mikleo thought it was okay, he wasn't worried, he was confident.

Tomorrow they were going to inform Boris of the scheme menacing the kingdom. Was that what it was to be a Dragoon? Going as the wind wanted them to be, fighting hellions and admonishing evil as they traveled, saving entire kingdoms in the process? The more he observed the spirit the more Mikleo couldn't help but think they indeed had their own will and that they were somehow acting right by their will. Didn't the legend say that it was gods that were sacrificed to give powers to those stones? It certainly felt like it.

Mikleo disliked the thought that he ultimately could be manipulated, that the strings of his fate were pulled like he was a mere puppet. He didn't want to believe in fate. He wanted to believe in Sorey, because most of all, it was Sorey’s kindness, Sorey’s need to help others that brought them here tonight.

His palm flattened against Sorey’s back, he could feel is heartbeat. Steady, soft, synchronized with its own. Mikleo felt himself smile, happy, content, his lids starting to drop. Sorey mumbled in his sleep, leaning into Mikleo's touch. 

Hushed voices reached his ears alerting him one last time before he recognized Edna's and Zaveid's. Recognizing the mention of Eizen, Edna's brother’s name, Mikleo turned his attention away, allowing them privacy with their shared memories.

It was the second time Edna abandoned her home, her old life and her brother's mementos to go confront the world on her own. She never said a word. She never shed a tear. As sleepiness started to take over his mind, one last stray thought forced itself into Mikleo. There lay the possibility that Edna was the strongest of them all.

Tears welled again in Attakk's eyes and this time it wasn't because he had been forced to leave most of the Donau's museum collection behind, with only Emil's promise that Donau's habitants will come to pick the rest later.

It was time for goodbyes. Even if he was unwilling to admit it out loud, Mikleo had grown fond of the Normin’s presence. He had conforming manners and somewhat distracted Edna out of her teasing way enough to give Mikleo some respite. Having the Normin travel with them a bit longer would have been welcomed. Attakk would be missed and Mikleo was sure he wasn't the only one thinking this.

"I never would be able to thank you enough for your help, for Donau and for Emil." Attakk said voice cracking a bit.

Alisha crouched, lowering herself to Attakk's height, "We’ll visit you soon. After all, we still have to visit Donau's restored museum."

Attakk’s eyes widened tears threatening to fall, "Princess Alisha, I don't deserve so many honors!"

Sorey and Emil shook hands, "Maybe we'll have a duel next time you'll pass by Donau."

"Maybe." Sorey answered.

"And then Martha'll kill you both." Rose interjected, hands on her hips.

That was close to the commentary Mikleo was about to make, only that he would gladly support Martha in the killing. Those two really needed to learn that there was no need to show off. Sorey was as stupid as Emil anyway.

"Say hello to her." Edna simply added.

Visibly holding back a shudder, Emil nodded. "Bon voyage."

In the end Attakk managed to restrain most of his tears, waving enthusiastically with the hand not holding onto Emil.

"You have concurrence Sorey. I'm unable to decide which one of you is the weirdest." Edna deadpanned, turning her back to Emil’s retreating silhouette.

While Sorey let out an awkward laugh, not sure if it was a joke or if Edna was serious, Mikleo sighed, already knowing that there would be no one to distract Edna anymore.

The group had barely crossed Fletz gates, noticing the streets unusual quietness when the castle bells rang merrily. The strong sound echoing against the white wall as the bells played in a light timber to convey the happiness of the moment.

Alisha turned toward the group, her hand clutched nervously in front of her, "It seems the ceremony for Sergei's coming of age celebration has already started." She told them, breath catching a little, "The princes' birthdays weren't due for another week, they must have pushed the ceremony."

"Looks like our fake Prince had enough of playing a man. I can't blame her for that." Edna said.

Her words did nothing to help Alisha and she started to show more sign of distress, holding her head down. Lailah intervened, gently chastising Edna with a shake of her head.

"It looks like it just started. We may still have time to stop the Moon Dagger from being passed on to her."

Eyes clearing, Alisha stood with renewed vigor. She smiled fondly, again wondering how she managed to make friends with those people.

"You are right, let’s head to the castle and warn Prince Boris."

If Alisha remembered her lecture correctly, the ceremony of the Moon Dagger was a private thing. Though, like when a marriage or a new birth happening in the royal family, the concerned royals would later stand on the castle balcony saluting their subjects. Most of Fletz residents had gathered before the castle frontgate, cheering and encouraging their beloved Prince without knowing anything of the scheme taking place behind the closed balcony curtain.

However, it made Alisha and her group’s progression easier as they ran unhindered into the empty street. The giant guard smiled at them and when they presented at the back gate.

"I heard you were invited by prince Boris. This is such a happy day." he told them before frowning, "But I also heard he got sick and was confined to his bedroom."

Sorey and Alisha exchanged a worried glance before Alisha found Rose's eyes. This information was alarming, but Rose held such confidence in her eyes Alisha was sure that between all of them they would make a difference.

The guard continued to talk, "Also there are a lot of newcomers in the guards, extra bought in by the prince Sergei." Leaning closer toward Alisha, which meant bending himself in half considering his size, he whispered conspicuously, "The rumor is they were bandits before. So be careful. No knight material, I tell you but no one says a thing because Prince Sergei chose them. Look I'll let you go see Prince Boris but don't tell anybody. Long live the twin Princes."

Alisha’s mouth was still hanging slightly open after the guard held most of the conversation to himself without letting one of them speak. At least he was willing to let them enter so she was not about to argue.

Thanking the guard, they climbed the long set of stairs until they reached the courtyard, this time though it wasn't the statues that held Sorey's attention but definitely the reinforced guard. The chances they would make it to Prince Boris without getting caught were thin.

As if answering to her worries, a wooden door opened and Boris turned his head toward them. He looked a bit pale, but his hair was styled and he was wearing a more ornamented version of his blue clothes, not something a prince confined to bed rest would bother putting on. The prince was in perfect health. Surprise passed briefly over his face before he collected himself, his jaw clenching as he retreated back into the room he came from, waving at them to follow him.

It was a tight fit after the seven of them went in, and Alisha wondered what the prince was doing hiding in a storage room by himself. Boris closed the door behind them, still facing the door, hands braced against it and head lowering between his shoulders as he prepared himself to hear what the group had to tell him. He was clearly in distress. Alisha had suspected the Prince’s sickness was to hide something else and now that her impressions were confirmed she didn't know what to think.

Boris’s voice started low. "I've been evicted from my own twin brother coming of age ceremony. There are guards at my door that I never saw before today preventing me from going out pretending my brother would kill them if something were to happen to me." Taking a deep breath, Boris swallowed his frustration and when he turned back to face the group he was grinning, "A chance that I know all the ways out. Never knew my habits to sneak past my tutors when I was a child would prove useful as an adult."

"Prince Boris... I'm sorry it took so much time to-" Alisha tried to convey her feelings.

Holding is hand up, Boris slowly shook his head," It wasn't your fault, neither you nor I could do something about the ceremony being moved forward."

"We have the information you wanted though." Rose told him.

As the prince palled again, Alisha knew she would have to gather her strength to tell him the whole truth. She loathed being the bringer of bad news, but she had held herself in front of men wanting to see her dragged into the dirt and stood strong, now she could help Boris through this. Holding a hand against her chest she told Boris everything Malefore told them.

How the Prince was switched half a year ago by an unknown woman. There was magic involved but when Boris asked precisions, not even Lailah could answer him. So Alisha continued reporting the conversation Rose heard, telling the Prince how the woman sought to have the Moon Dagger and take the throne for herself.

The prince sat on a crate, holding his mouth in his hand as he considered everything. "To think… that I suspected something but that my brother was actually replaced by someone else…"

"That star reading thing of yours was right after all." Edna said.

Alisha doubted if it was a compliment or an attempt to cheer the prince a little, still Boris smiled at that.

His smile faltered when his hand ran through his styled hair, disheveling him, "Yet it couldn't tell me where my brother is now." He stood up abruptly, "By Maotelus, they could have killed him for all I know."

Rose put her hand on his shoulder, squeezing. "No, no, Malefore told us that he's held somewhere in the castle."

The prince stared at Rose's hand, swallowing. Alisha flinched, wondering how Rose could have known that the gesture would be appreciated. Alisha envied her that instinct that told her when she could be useful, but also she liked that about Rose. Protocol and good manners would never stand in her way when she wanted to help people. Some part of Alisha told her that nothing much could stop Rose from being Rose.

Though reassured, Boris scowled, "How could you be so sure he wasn't lying."

Rose shrugged, "He had no reason to. "

Edna leaned toward Boris when he seemed doubtful, "It seems that bad guys have made a habit of telling us everything they know when they are on the brink of death, it's convenient."

"We have to find my brother otherwise we can't stop the ceremony." Boris told them, closing his eyes.

"He was your brother, you know him better than anyone. Maybe you can think of someplace." Sorey tried, "Or can you use your astrology again?"

Hitting him with is shoulder discreetly Mikleo rolled his eyes, "It doesn't work like that Sorey. You need stars and it’s the middle of the day."

"I knew that."

"I was actually heading to my brother's bedroom. With his guards concentrated around the throne room, I thought I would be able to enter and find some proof." Boris told them, standing up.

"That a great idea! We are able to find some clues" Lailah said, clapping her hands in enthusiasm.

The group invigorated, they followed Boris through the Twin Castle corridors. Prince Sergei's room was traditionally in the western tower when Boris’s apartment was in the eastern one. Until then, Alisha and the other were granted access only in the eastern part. It seemed that most of the staff in the western part had never seen the group before. It was true, they made a colorful bunch and many heads turned at their passage but Prince Boris’s presence was in fact enough to prevent any of the servants from hindering them. Though there was no telling when one will rat them out and that the fake Sergei would be informed of their presence.

Just like Boris predicted, there was only one guard left standing before Sergei's bedroom. He was quickly down with Zaveid’s intervention.

The bedroom was all red curtains and carpet, not a thing seemed out of place. The cushions of gold and purple colors were neatly arranged against a couch, the bed was made. There was a portrait of the prince covering a wall. It was a bedroom like many one could find in a castle. Yet upon entering Boris had seemed displeased, a sourness over his features.

"Somebody looted the place… my bother's…there were things I offered him he wouldn't part with." He told them.

It seemed that the prince's frustration and exasperation at being unable to prevent the current events had left place to anger and resentment, the soft bookish prince clenching his fist with the need to hit something. If anyone doubted Boris’s love for his brother, this change of personality over the desecrating of his brother’s belongings would make them see it more clearly. It made Alisha want to help him even more. For her Boris was the kind prince never to hurt a fly, always laughing at his brother’s antics. Every expression he had shown them today gave her the impression he was not the same anymore. She clutched her hand against her chest, hoping, praying that malevolence hadn't reached that kind man’s heart.

She would make those responsible pay for their acts.

"That makes the room even more suspicious. We are getting close to finding Prince Sergei, I know it." She said, reassuring Boris and herself at the same time.

The prince’s fist unclenched, his shoulders sagging as he nodded. "Let's split up and search."

As he said that, commotion was being heard outside the room. A voice was screaming in alarm after finding the unconscious one outside.

"Shit, I knew I should have hidden the body." Zaveid said, rubbing his nape.

Boris seemed unaffected, "We are on the top of the tower. No one can hear him scream. We'll be out before he is back with reinforcements." He said as he rummaged through his brother's drawers.

Edna rolled her eyes, "There are too many people in this room. Come on Lailah, Zaveid we'll take care of the nuisance."

She exited the room, never looking behind to see if they were obeying. Zaveid and Lailah shared a glance then shrugged at the same time, walking back outside the room. The cries for help were quickly replaced by a shrill one and Sorey grimaced in empathy. Silence settled again.

Mikleo got closer to prince's portrait, holding his mouth as he stared at the serious expression the painting returned to him. Dropping the curtain she was lifting, Alisha observed him as the seraph lifted a hand to touch the canvas. His perplexed expression deepened as he let his hand drop back without coming close to touching the painting.

"The Earth Pulse flow seems altered here. It's almost imperceptible but I can affirm this portrait was imbued with an arte."

Sorey stepped next to Mikleo, and then promptly put is palm against the portrait. "This one?"

A sudden blinding light forced Alisha to shield her eyes. It happened in a fraction of second, the time it took for her breath to be taken away, and for her to regain her balance when the ground under her feet changed.

Boris, Sorey, Mikleo, Rose and her were standing on a round platform, Sergei’s bedroom still visible behind her through what looked like a small window. The ceiling held no difference with any other one they had seen in the castle yet the room was filled with white trailing lights. Like fireflies leaving trails into the darkest night. Somehow it reminded her of the warped mist of the Valley of Corrupted Gravity.

Mikleo’s voice broke through the stupefied silence, "You never learn," he said, scowling at Sorey.

Sorey rubbed his nape sheepishly, "At least it didn't explode this time."

"Where are we? Are we still inside the castle?" Rose asked. Her face took a whitish hue as one of the lights passed in front of her, "This place reeks of magic."

"This is indeed a seraph created space. Looks like it was attached into the painting. It’s my first time seeing one." Mikleo had his eyes wide open, mouth hanging slightly in awe.

"Guys where are you? Sorey? Alisha? Can you hear me?" Lailah’s voice reached them, sounding weird and far away in the seraphic place. They could see her and the two others coming toward the painting, Lailah leaning in, "I heard your voice."

"Don't touch the painting!" Mikleo warned, "It seems linked to a pocket world here. There’s not a lot of space though," He added, taking a step back as he looked at the black nothingness surrounding the platform.

Lailah’s face lit up in realization, "I heard you! We’ll find a way to get you out of there."

"Wait!" Sorey interjected before Lailah could decide on anything, "Look!"

He pointed right in front of them, behind the fine curtain of white light stood another platform. Focusing her gaze against the relative obscurity, Alisha's eyes widened when she spotted the human form lying against a couch.

"Sergei! My Brother! Sergei!"

She had the reflex to hold onto Boris’s arms before he fell from the platform in his haste to rejoin his brother. They were far enough to be unable to tell if he was breathing or not, but they could tell he was unharmed, no visible wound puncturing his carefully held body. He was breathing hard, a shiver racking his body while Alisha held him back.

"It's too dangerous. There is a chasm we can't cross like that."

Boris looked physically pained but let go of Alisha, looking at his brother and unable to go hold him in his arms. Rose was crouching down looking more closely at the void.

"How does this work?" she mumbled, thoughtfully.

"It's linked to the Earth Pulse," Mikleo said, looking over her shoulder, "Chances are we'll be disintegrated and turned into raw mana if we fell into it." Then he smiled, holding his chin up, "It's fortunate you have a seraph with you."

Mikleo breathed then moved his arm like he was cutting the air, hand glowing. The light stopped floating around, frozen in time and space. Then it gently fell, like snowflakes in winter and solidified, forming a frozen bridge between them and Sergei.

Boris was the first to test the bridge’s solidity, then when he confirmed it would hold his weight he ran toward his brother, Alisha close behind him.

He stopped in front of the couch, hesitation taking over his body. He was there caught between the moment where he confirmed if his twin was either dead or alive. Alisha moved, taking that pain away from him, she lowered herself on her knee, taking the prince’s hand in hers. He looked serein. His face slack and mouth relaxed. Without the hateful expression and perpetually frowning brows the imposter wearing his face had, he was as beautiful as Alisha remembered.

She smiled in relief, it was warm. "Prince Boris." She called.

The prince’s even breath reached her ears in the silence that followed. Boris couldn't hold himself any longer. He took his brother’s shoulders in his hands and shook.

"Sergei! It's me Boris! You have to wake up."

It was a wonder for Alisha how he managed to keep his voice steady when he looked on the brink of tearing apart, all of his worries and fears catching him at the same time. His breath caught into a swallowed sob when he realized his brother's lack of response.

"I cannot wake him!"

Alisha thought fast, observing Sorey and then Rose and taking inspiration from the both of them. "Let me try." She told Boris before rising and holding Sergei’s shoulders in turn, "Prince Sergei, you have to wake up or something terrible will happen to Tiberoa."

The prince moaned, his nose scrunching as he finally struggled against sleep. Relief flooded Boris’s body who nearly fell against his brother.

Something broke into a noise of glass breaking and pieces of the bracelet Sergei wore fell near Alisha's feet.

Eyes blinking open, Sergei looked at them in confusion, "Boris… And you… you are…"

"Don't push yourself. You are safe now."

Chapter Text

Confusion etched on his features, Sergei listened carefully as Sorey and Boris recalled the past six month’s events. His disbelief when he understood how he was asleep all along as his kingdom was invaded by bandits and his reputation tarnished morphed into cold anger and the Prince stormed through the castle.

His brother beside him, there was no one stopping them. The shady guards who had tried were left speechless, flayed by Sergei's rhetoric as he exposed them and their unprofessionalism. In appearance, Sergei seemed calm and collected, treading through the situation at hand with the charisma of a true leader. All the while his fingers had twitched and Sorey had recognized the gesture as one of a swordsman yearning for his weapon.

The guards had no choice but to let them through. Sorey saw them disappearing quietly, fleeing the downfall of their coup like the cowards they were.

Sergei saw them too and he nearly bristled with the need to punish them himself. It took only a glance at Boris to stop himself, the prince sighing as he remembered that they had to stop his own coming of age ceremony at once. Sergei breathed deep and nodded at them to follow him further into the castle obviously holding his countenance to spare his brother. Though Boris was holding himself straight, shoulders squared as he gave his brother support, not standing in his shadow but rather complementing him, his weariness was unmistakable.

His brother was back, adrenaline had left his body and he was now feeling the tiredness of someone whose relief had left him groggy. Sergei was protective of him and he was a bit wary of the strangers accompanying Boris. But he trusted Alisha, and he trusted Boris's judgment.

Eventually, Sergei, Boris and the whole group of Sorey's companions barged into the throne room.

The sun, bright and shining penetrated the room through the wide open colonnades facing the sea, the water sending perpetually moving shadows over the tapestries and the white walls. The room was even more lavishly decorated than the first time Sorey was invited to come in.

When he had expected to see the whole court and ambassadors from neighboring countries, Sorey was surprised to find out that the ceremony was more of a private matter, with only a few attendants present beside the king and the fake Prince.

Or maybe it wasn't usually how the ceremony was held, if the twin scowl both princes were sporting were any indication.

The room was large enough that the king didn't immediately register they had barged in and continued the ceremony as if nothing was wrong. He was standing before the throne, on the raised dais while the fake prince was facing him, back turned to the real prince. Beside him was the attendant holding what Sorey expected to be the Moon Dagger, the small dagger encased in a scabbard encrusted with bright jewels in shape of moon and stars, on a red velvet cushion.

The king's voice echoed, "You've been filled with twenty years of experience since you came into this world. You have reached the age that deserves the succession of the Moon Dagger as an heir to the throne of Tiberoa. Never forget the blessings of the Sun, Moon and Stars."

He had barely finished his sentence when Sergei’s voice rose, "Father! Wait" he interjected.

The King blinked twice, looking back between the fake prince and the real one as the real Sergei's quick steps brought him to them. The fake prince turned toward them and Sorey could almost feel the veiled resentment he was exuding.

"Boris? I swear if you are disguising yourself as your brother again…"

"I'm here, father." Boris stood next to his twin," The prince standing before you is an imposter."

The king faltered, taking a step back as his eyes suddenly cleared. Instantly, the fake prince knew there was no way to weasel himself out of the situation, still he was quick in climbing the few stairs of the raised dais and snatched the Moon Dagger away from the unsuspecting hands of the attendant.

As he jumped away from the group to the balcony facing the sea with his prize in hand, Sorey just had time to see the fake prince’s irritated expression before purple smoke engulfed his body. It dissipated as soon as it appeared and instead of Sergei's perfect reflection there was a woman standing now.

"Tch, Symonne's illusion wore off." She hissed as she dusted her real clothes.

She was a tall woman, holding herself carefully with long black hair falling down her back in a single braid. She had) pretty enough features but it was full of scorn and displeasure, cold as ice while Sergei's was full of sharp angles and radiated gentleness and warmth. She was now wearing a white and black corset with golden embroidery forming what looked like the sigil of a noble house. Her high heeled black boots over her white riding pants made her appear taller, more menacing. She was holding the Moon Dagger firmly between longs, nimble fingers.

"I know you!" the King accused, "You are Runette Forton! You are the cardinal of the Seraphic Church!"

An incredulous whisper passed through the attendants and the gathered servants, few recognizing the woman from the figure she was. She scowled harder, her lip pulled into a hard line

"Took you long enough to notice I wasn't your son." She hissed.

"My son, what is going on?" The king was still too confused to take hold of the situation.

"That woman impersonated me, Father. I had a spell cast on me and was left to sleep for the last half year." A gasps was heard among the spectators, the king’s mouth hung slightly open," During that time, it seemed she made a variety of social missteps, ruining my reputation and the kingdom's, alienating us from of people." Sergei narrowed his eyes at the woman.

Boris stepped right beside his brother, "Father. That woman was going to take over Tiberoa, by forming a conspiracy with the Malefore Gang!" he explained, the gravity of the accusation weighing his voice.

"It seems I've been unmasked." Forton smirked, her grey eyes twinkling dangerously. She looked at the Moon Dagger in her hand, triumphal, "Though it's a little late, don't you think? I have what I need."

Fingers finding his sword, Sorey held himself ready to pull it out, feeling that woman hadn't truly revealed her whole hand yet. With experience in holding his role as a shepherd Sorey knew he had become as sensitive to malevolence as any seraph in his proximity, that woman reminded him too much of Maltran to allow him to relax, although they had her cornered. She was just too confident.

"Look around yourself." Zaveid said as the others pulled out their weapons one after the other. "I do like women who don't give up but that's beside the point here."

Alisha stepped right beside Sergei, Rose close behind her. Forton’s eyes narrowed dangerously. Unarmed, the princes and the king stepped back, allowing Alisha to take over with her lance pointed at the woman, the color of her knighthood reflecting in her eyes.

"The Malefore Gang as fallen apart, you have nowhere to run. Surrender yourself and give the moon Dagger back."  Alisha ordered.

Forton choked on her breath in a theatrical show of fear, holding a hand against her heaving chest, "You point your weapon at a peaceful member of the clergy. How low the world has fallen." She accused, then when Alisha's expression showed shadows of guilt, she began to chuckle, "I've managed to get this far for my master I won't give up this easily."

With her free hand, she reached into her pocket, pulling out a stone with a round shape and golden gleam so familiar to Sorey that he felt it echo inside himself. An instant connection formed with the Dragoon's spirit and his own. He could recognize the dreadful feeling he had as the spirits presence.

"She is a Dragoon," Mikleo said matter of factly. It was as if he had expected such turn of events.

"The seventh and last Dragoon spirit left, the Golden Dragoon." Lailah provided, her voice barely rose, "It might not have recognized her." She reassured, her hand clutching at her dress in hope.

It was a possibility, but there was no certitude. With that in mind, Sorey was careful observing Forton's movements. If she was truly a chosen one then there was no way to stop her from adorning the Dragoon's armor and there would be no other choice but to fight using their powers against her. But instead of the brightness and the surge of power he was expecting, a crushing, awful sensation burned through his lungs chasing his breath away from his lungs.

Sorey coughed, Mikleo’s cool hand touching his back the second after. His lungs are heavy but it's nothing he couldn't alleviate with a few deep breaths. Mikleo’s hand helped with its slow rubbing. When Sorey turned to him, to thank him, he was stricken with the look in Mikleo’s eyes. For a second there, Mikleo had been reliving that time with Feyrbrand, a darkness settling deep into the violet of his eyes. Sorey grasped his hand and squeezed.

"Malevolence." He breathed.

Mikleo’s eyes cleared, feeling it too now, his head turned sharply, eyes searching the sea.

An enormous shadow passed over the sea surface right behind Forton, powerful beats of wings rising tides as something gigantic landed on the castle roof. The strong gust of wind it provoked threw the group slightly off, Sorey bracing himself to stay up as Mikleo's capes flapped around both of them. Edna nearly flew off but her feet were firmly planted on the carpeted floor.  Distressed cries were heard over the rumble of stone debris falling on the balcony and on the sea below. It soon became a panicked cacophony of cries and screams as the people gathered in front of the castle gate reacted to the creature, their primary instinct tacking over.

 Then the giant creature looming over Fletz let out a roar, the walls shook and then silence fell over the city. A few sobs were heard here and there as the attendants feared the worst and prayed to Maotelus. The coldness Forton had showed until then melted slightly, her lips pulling into a smile. A smile so warm Sorey thought he must have been dreaming.

She stepped closer, no one moved. Sergei’s hand shaking beside Sorey as the king watched the ceiling in disbelief. The creature moved slightly, projecting a menacing shadow on the balcony as bits of roof fell down and broke loudly against the courtyard tiles.

"A Dragon? I-I can't believe it"

Forton's expression changed again, now colder than the icy depth of Elysia’s mountain lake, "And yet, my King, a Dragon it is. Waiting for my command to feast on your dear subjects,"

"Y-ou can't-" Boris tried but Forton sent him a look that froze him in place, petrified he could only watch a she got closer to Alisha.

Her porcelain cheeks unmoving as she held the Princess’s harsh glance she delicately took the end of Alisha's spear between her fingers, and then she pushed it away with the tip of her fingers, chin held high as Alisha's shoulder shook with her restrain.

"You let me go and my pet follows me. You stop me and my pet won't need more feeding tonight."

The spear lowered but Alisha’s eyes never left Forton's, flames against ice. The more she held Alisha’s gaze the more Rose inched closer. She was positively fuming. Only once Sorey remembered seeing her like that and it was in the blur left after she revealed Mikleo's dragoon power. She was gripping her dagger so hard that her skin was white.

"Good. My pet will be leaving with me. That deal ends if I see either of you tries to follow me outside of this castle."

What felt like hours was spent in silence, before the king let out a weary sigh, "Let her go," He ordered.

 Sorey looked between the princes and the king as both Boris and Sergei turned toward their father with resignation. They could only approve of their father’s decision but it didn't mean they were forced to like it. But no one protested, the menace of the Dragon on top of their head still too present.

Forton smiled when she pranced toward the exit nodding once at the king before never turning back to look at them.

"You may escape for now. But next time we won't let you go this easily. There won't be any hostage to take," Rose’s voice rose, monotone but heavy with threat," We'll find you and you will give back the Moon Dagger, even if we have to take it off of your dead corpse."

Forton stopped just before the entrance, a light chuckle coming out of her firmly closed lips, she held the Moon Dagger up, looking over her shoulder, and "You may try. I can't guarantee I will have it in my possession for much longer." She warned. "You were wrong when you thought I did all that to take over the throne. Who would want a kingdom that is about to crumble?"

She chuckled again, her sinister words reverberating against the walls of the empty corridor.

Minutes passed like grains of sand flowing into an hourglass and still there was barely any movement in the throne room. Sorey let his sword go slack against his palm, looking back at the ceiling toward the Dragon they couldn't see through the castle stone. Mikleo was beside him, rubbing his arms and looking anywhere but toward the princes. The king had fallen back on his throne, head held between his hands. He was looking relatively older as both his sons sided him in waiting. Rose started pacing.

She was frustrated and Sorey shared her disposition. Knowing that there was nothing they could do beside wait, the Dragon over their heads was weighing on Sorey's shoulders. They were five Dragoon when two were enough to defeat Feyrbrand, they could have defeated him, he was sure of that. However there was no way to determine the amount of casualties and Sorey would never risk any lives.

When Zaveid tried to approach Edna she moved away, stopping right before the open window to the balcony and Sorey finally noticed just how much she was shaking, her arm clutched around her tiny body like she was cold. If her jaw wasn't clenched so tight it was certain her teeth would be clattering. It had attracted Lailah’s concern too but she seemed reluctant to approach Edna, her distress visible on her face.

Sorey had gotten used to the Dragon’s malevolence so he doubted that it could still affect Edna this much. She wanted to cross the threshold and go on the balcony but something was stopping her, her eyes riveted on the ground.

"Are you okay, Edna?"

Even if Zaveid and Lailah showed hesitation, there was no way Sorey could let Edna deal with whatever was plaguing her by herself. He quickly stepped closer, started to talk slowly, like one would try to approach a wild animal.

"Edna? Are you feeling alright?"

"I'm fine." She answered her words snapping like a whip.

She had stopped trembling now, standing straight and holding her head up as her blue eyes reflected the sea. Still Sorey wanted to offer some comfort but her hard stance made him understand the others' hesitation, his mouth closing and opening as he searched for words. He was spared when the castle walls shook again.

The Dragon let out another roar and the flapping of his wings as it took air again felt like lifting the proverbial lead weight over them. Edna eyes hardened below her scrunched brows. Following her gaze, Sorey watched as the Dragon’s shadow came in sight over the gentle waves. Then the Dragon grazed the surface, offering full view of its body for the first time. Large leathery wings' supporting the enormous lizard like body, this Dragon was a mirror to the representations scribbled on Sorey's Celestial Record. It was far away but they all witnessed as he picked something up from a small boat, it's huge scaly tail destroying the boat as it flew back up.

"I'll be even better when we'll bring that woman down." Edna continued, spiting her words like it literally pained her.

Sorey was confused by her attitude and for once, Mikleo was sharper than him, "It was him, right? Your brother."

Not even a muscle in her jaw moved, her hard eyes still looking over the horizon even though the Dragon was no longer visible. It was enough for Sorey to understand.

"It seems the Dragon was heading to Illisa bay."

The king had risen from his throne; traces of distress had left his body as he addressed the group from the raised dais.

"Princess Alisha," Sergei stepped down, walking back toward Alisha, he took her hand in his.

Alisha took it with all the grace her education gave her, immediately assuming her role as a Princess of her kingdom. Still, Sorey couldn't help but to find amusement in the way Rose rolled her eyes behind her, annoyed by all that display.

"As you know, the woman had dealt lots of damage to this kingdom. Both by stealing the Moon Dagger but also with the way she allowed bandits to vandalize our town and villages." He was looking at Alisha with sorrow, his brown eyes unable to mask his feeling of guilt and frustration, "I'm guilty of the fact that I was unable to prevent this, but also in the fact that I am now unable to go after her before insuring my people safety."

Alisha held his gaze, "You want us to pursue her and get back the Moon Dagger." She asserted nodding.

This time it was Boris who addressed her, looking at his father for approval, "We may ask for your help once again and rely on you and your friend. Taming a Dragon, that woman seems to be beyond our power as mere humans. I'm sorry we ask so much of you"

Alisha, shook her head, "You have all the rights to ask for our help with times so dire," eyes passing over her friends and a fond smile found her lips when she met their unconditional approval. Rose bumped her shoulder before she could open her mouth, effectively dislodging Sergei's hands from Alisha's.

"Of course we are going to go after her! You don't need to make that a request your highness. Although if there is financial compensation…"

"As a knight I'll make the promise to bring back your royal treasure and proceed to the arrest of the criminal." Alisha quickly said, covering Rose's voice.

The king’s sunny disposition seemed to be back as he opened his arm in a grand gesture, smiling wildly as he spoke, "Then I'll send for the more powerful ship navigating Tiberoa's sea. I'll ask the Van Eltia crew to take you in. Their captain, Van Aifread owes me a favor."

Both Boris and Sergei looked horrified at that, turning toward their father with mouths open in protestation, "Father!" Boris said, "You can't!"

"They are Pirates!" Sergei claimed.

But the king made a dismissal gesture with his hand, like it was only a small matter. Sorey couldn't help the nervous laugh that he let out while watching the royals.

Who knew the old king Strelka would end up being such a rowdy character?

Rose took a deep breath, salted air entering her airways deeply. She closed her eyes in bliss as she appreciated the feeling of the wind against her cheeks. It's been a very long time since the last time she sailed at sea, and the Van Eltia was indeed a very fast and powerful ship.

The crew was as Sergei feared, a little shady but it was an instant hookup with the Sparrow Feathers that went with her, and it was working toward a very profitable commercial partnership opening toward the island’s markets. Rose was elated.

She looked up as some yellow bird flew past her, until she spotted Zaveid standing over her in the look-out post. One of the birds landed on the young man next to him, nesting comfortably on top of the guy’s hat. They were too far for Rose to hear their conversation but she could tell they were laughing happily at some joke Zaveid made. That was suspicious; Rose narrowed her eyes at them in warning even though they probably were only comparing their shirtless state, though the blond with the bird was wearing a jacket. They seemed carefree like this, Zaveid’s hair swept by the wind as he looked over the sea.

It reminded Rose just how much she was unable to relax.

That woman, Forton, stole the Moon Dagger not for herself but for someone else, she strongly suspected that woman to be a Hellion too, just like Lunarre. That man… no, that Hellion stole the Moon Gem from Alisha, for someone else too. They had some proof those two were somehow linked. Yet Rose couldn't make conjectures without more pieces of the puzzle.

Those artifacts came from the era where Hellions ruled over all, gifted to humans who could do nothing with the power both artifacts held… what could it mean?

Rose mindlessly played with the beads in her hair. She knew something was off but she couldn't tell anyone. Not when she knew it wouldn’t help her figure something out. Her lids closed when she repressed the strong feeling of loss taking over her as she missed her confident.

She had no one left to talk to. Not even Alisha, not even Lailah. Neither Mikleo nor Sorey should suspect anything or she would lose their trust when she needed to be close to them still.

She could only hope they will figure it out themselves soon enough.

The loud voice of Van Aifread, the captain brought her back to reality as the man was discussing something with Eguille. Rose pursed her lips as she battled with the need to take part of the conversation. She could see Eguille’s slight discomfort as he stroked his short beard the same way Aifread stoked his longer one.

The man had bright eyes, not even showing the full extent of his wander lust. He wore extravagant clothes when compared to the other members of his crew, there was no mistaking him as something other than a pirate. He wore a long purple vest with an assorted tri-cornered hat with a red fluffy feather. Black pants covered by a fur lined white and grey shirt only closed by a red sash and a large leather belt. He had a fair share of scars that told stories about harsh battles but an easy smile that spoke of a liking of life. Lots of things in him Rose wouldn't associate with a pirate and to make her point she only had to bring out how the man had a king's trust.

Her eyes met Eguille’s and though he was silently asking for rescue, Rose was willing to let him struggle on his own. It served him right after he teased Rose about how she would go further still to support Alisha.

To be fair, Eguille was only half wrong but Rose wasn't about to give him that. A smug smile pulled on her lips when she turned away from him.

It was time to go see what Sorey was up to.

Mikleo was torn. It was a surprise that he actually was struggling with the need to laugh and his empathy at Sorey’s state. He just couldn't help being amused by Sorey’s face when they found out the hard way that Sorey didn't have sea legs. He felt somewhat guilty about that, still he chuckled again while remembering.

Sorey had made the ugliest of faces as he hugged the bucket used to empty his stomach closer, He never once complained but was still pretending to be fine when the room was reeking of the evidence of his sea sickness. Mikleo couldn't heal that so he the only thing he could suggest was for Sorey to take fresh air on the deck while holding back his chuckle as Sorey stubbornly still pretended to be okay on unsteady legs.

Being outside did wonders on Sorey and his face regained some colors as Mikleo stood beside him. He contemplated about rubbing Sorey's back but Sorey had been sick enough in the past that Mikleo knew he didn't like physical contact after throwing up. So they basked in compassionate silence and Mikleo allowed himself to be pulled by the sea around him.

The sensation of being surrounded by water was very intense, more than when he stood at Donau's pier. Mikleo could feel mana pour into him and he was literally brimming with energy.

Sorey pulled him out of his reverie when he leaned on the railing the metal buckle of his gloves clicking. Mikleo reacted in fear that he might be willing to throw up again but instead found Sorey’s serein face, green eyes alive as he looked in the distance. Mikleo smiled in relief, the sensation coupling with the feeling of the Van Eltia's prow breaking waves resonating inside him. It was nice.

Mikleo’s eyes remained on Sorey's face, admiring him even if he wouldn't admit it but was instead surprised when it moved into an expression of profound pensiveness, Sorey's brows drawn together.

 "You must have a really unpleasant thought."

Sorey’s expression cleared and he straightened up, he hummed into his breath. "I was just thinking… you won't like it." Sorey began then stopped, shaking his head as he refused to share his thought with Mikleo.

Mikleo bumped their shoulders gently, "I remember someone telling me not to dwell too much on things, and that I could share when something is bothering me."

"It's about the Black Monster."

Mikleo's smirk disappeared as he followed Sorey's gaze. Now Mikleo could see that Sorey wasn't looking over the horizon. His eyes were fixated on the distorted shape of the Everlasting moon reflected over the sea. Mikleo could instantly feel the displeasure fill his bloodstream, a coldness seeping in his fingers, he leaned closed to Sorey.

"You can tell me." He breathed out, offering.

As much as he couldn't stand it, Sorey needed to talk about the Black Monster, Mikleo could tell when something was really bothering him. He promised himself to be there to Sorey even though it didn't make talking about this easier.

Sorey sighed through his nose, considering before finally pulling his eyes away from the moon and back to Mikleo, "After hearing Masedra's legend, that it only wakes up every one hundred and eight years, I'm starting to think we'll never know much more about it. It would be hard finding record of its existence."

If Mikleo wanted to be honest, he thought it would be better like that, but Sorey’s trailing voice made him worried.

"So much happened, with the Dragoons, with Lunarre and Symonne… me hearing the Vyrage voices…and I…"

Mikleo bit his lips, "Do you think, maybe Gramps will know something?" he had that feeling too. It was their Gramps that told them about the Black Monster first, it was their Gramps that found them in Camlann. Their Gramps had had a Dragoon's spirit.

Sorey shrugged, his fond smile telling Mikleo he was thinking about Zenrus too, "We could ask when we find him." it was hopeful but tainted by a bit of sadness.

It was that sadness that shattered Mikleo's heart, leaving a bleeding wound. Unconsciously he put a hand over his chest. "Whatever may happen, I'll be with you."

"The Black Monster thing again?" Rose interrupted their conversation, arms crossed over her chest as she walked closer.

Night was falling slowly and the light of the day was diming as the sun disappeared over the horizon line. Rose’s expression was hard to read in that light but as she got closer, Mikleo could see her interest.

"Do you know something about it, Rose?" Sorey asked, only now noticing that he never really breached the subject in Rose's presence.

In turn she looked at the sea, the blue of her eyes reflecting the moon as clearly as the water, "I may have traveled a lot but it doesn't mean I know more than you on the subject." She told them.

Mikleo leaned on Sorey, shoulder against shoulder like he was comforting Sorey from his disappointment. Sorey looked a lot better now, he might even stomach some food without throwing up and as Mikleo was about to suggest he should eat Rose talked again.

"What would you do with that kind of information, anyway? Do you plan on killing it? Maybe you think it's a Hellion and that you could purify it with you Dragoon's powers?" she chuckled, like the idea was something funny.

Mikleo thought she was a bit harsh with her words, her laugh mocking like she was accusing Sorey of something, like his need to do the things he thought right was a flaw. Surely, Sorey must have felt the same way after hearing Rose.

But Sorey wasn't offended in the least, he shrugged as he smiled at Rose, "And you, do you really think a creature that vile could be left alone? Don't you want to know the reason it kills so many?"

Rose’s expression was strange, unreadable even though she was mirroring Sorey's smile. Then she sighed, her arm rising over her head as she stretched, not even hiding her yawn behind her hand. Then, she rubbed at her nape.

"I have no right to say that to you when I want to kill Lunarre for revenge. Dezel told me not to become like him…don't let that Black Monster become your obsession, Sorey."

With that, she pulled herself off of the railing and left, leaving the lovebirds alone.

The earth felt so far away with all that water between Edna's feet on the ground. She almost wanted to go bother Mikleo, to force him to make up for it because he was the one water seraph here. He owed her that. She was a lady, she needed to feel comfortable.

For now, the velvety cushions in the captain’s cabin were enough, and to be honest she didn't want to see anyone right now. Leaning down helped here feel closer to the earth, the wood around her felt earthy enough but not enough at the same time. It was a wonder how Eizen could stand this.

Edna grumbled, turning to lay on her stomach when thoughts, memories of her brothers writing about this very same boat and its crew assaulted her. Van Aifread. Eizen had wrote about him like he had been bewitched by the man. Finally meeting him, Edna felt nothing but the want to pull that silly beard off the man's chin.

The cabin door creaked slightly as it was pulled open, and then closed. Edna turned away from it, her back facing whoever wanted to bother her. She swore that if it was that captain, she might finally snap and rip it.

"There you are. I had to bribe Benwick to find you, you know?"

It was just old man Zaveid, Grampveid being nosy again.

"I thought wind seraph were good at detecting. Maybe you are defective. You certainly act like it."

She reluctantly pulled herself away from the confortable cushion, her legs dangling as she acknowledged Zaveid's presence. She was dissatisfied that he wasn't even slightly moved by her words. It took her a few seconds to notice that he wasn't smiling.

"I told you I don't want to talk about Eizen with you."

But Zaveid ignored her, he sat near her feat, back and butt against wood. Edna wanted to pull on his hair. "You are not the only one who lost Eizen."

Raw, hot and coiling anger was the first emotion that came over her hearing that, and then it soon cooled as she observed Zaveid. He was right; Eizen never belonged to her alone.

"She called him a pet." She hissed, directing her resentment toward the right person.

"A Dragoon's spirit calls to them; he obeys her against his will. We need to free him." Zaveid drew his knee against his chest, arm resting on his bent knee. "We can't let him suffer anymore, Edna."

"You don't need to tell me that." She hissed gradually getting fed up with him.

In normal time, Edna would concede to Zaveid that he was one of the more tolerable ones along with Lailah in that team of dumb humans and weird Meebo but right now he was the stupidest seraph she knew and she was getting antsy. She knew he needed that, that he needed to talk about Eizen with his little sister. Zaveid knew just how much she meant to Eizen, just how much Eizen meant to her. So why? Why was he pestering her like that?

He pulled out a black shinning metallic thing, an ornamented metal rectangle with a grip. Zaveid called that a gun.

"You know who gave me Siegfried?"

Edna's booted foot nudged Zaveid's side; he was beating around the bush.

"I made an oath to Eizen, and he gave me this to seal it. It's both the weapon I need and the proof that I have to make it."

When Zaveid finally turned his face toward Edna she saw something weird reflect in his amber eyes, desperation.

Running a hand though his long hair, Zaveid scoffed at himself, "Edna, that's not Eizen anymore. We can't do anything else to save him. Not even a Shepherd can purify him."

Edna’s feet landed on the floor board as she decided it was time for her to stop hiding, "Are you telling that to convince yourself or me."

"A legendary Dragon Hunter that can't kill a single Dragon." Zaveid continued.

"I won't let anyone touch Eizen. I'll bring him back home." She said, final.

"And then we both condemn him to eternal life of suffering."

Alisha smiled to herself, her finger gently following the glow on the violet stone. She could feel it buzzing with energy, like a thunderstorm was caught inside. It was so contrasting with how she currently felt, at peace with herself. Remembering the look on Boris and Sergei's eyes, the determination when they still regretted being unable to follow Forton with her, she knew that Tiberoa was in good hands. She clutched the spirit again, heart swelling with pride, honored that the King and Princes were recognizing her worth as a knight, that they willingly trusted her with retrieving the Moon Dagger.

It was weird after that, contemplating the fact that her own kingdom was so ready to dispose of her that they try to protest her journey. Losing the Moon Gem was a crime, yet they couldn't condemn her for that without exposing that the King never had the treasure to begin with. They didn't trust she would recover the treasure, they just wanted her away.

"Oh! I’m sorry I didn't want to interrupt. I'm looking for Edna."

Alisha nearly startled, only her countenance prevented her from jumping. She had left the door of her cabin open, allowing Lailah to surprise her. Quickly regaining her composure, she smiled politely.

"You didn't interrupt anything at all. I haven't seen Edna since we went on board." Alisha said.

Lailah looked wounded her shoulder sagging in resignation, "She's hiding herself. Sometimes seraph can be as troubling as humans, they don’t recognize when they need not to be left alone with their thoughts." She mused.

Not knowing how to answer that, Alisha nodded; her hands warming where she was cupping the violet Dragoon's spirit. Lailah observed her for a moment then promptly at the table next to Alisha. Lailah smiled gently as her eyes passed over Alisha's own copy of the Celestial Record opened on the table.

"Do you want me to read your fortune?" She said voice warm with hints of playfulness.

Confusion was the first feeling Alisha had before Lailah displayed a row of cards between her hands, hiding her smile behind the paper. Then she started to feel interested, curious about what Lailah could see in her cards.

"Why not." She said, entertained as she chose a card from Lailah’s fingers.

Turning her chosen prediction toward her, Alisha was troubled by the symbol on it unable to read and comprehend the meaning, she handed it back to Lailah.

Lailah squealed, dropping all other cards as she took this one with both hands. "I knew it." She breathed.

Alisha felt her cheeks heat up, "What does it say?"

With a smile so blinding that it could rival Sorey's, Lailah’s eyes avoided direct contact with Alisha, then she leaned toward her conspiratorially, "You are falling in love!"

Now Alisha was certain her cheeks were burning red, she sputtered a little, "W-what?"

"The cards don't lie! Tell me who is stealing you heart!"

"I don't know. I-I haven’t really thought about-"

Lailah’s mood suddenly turned apologetic, "Please tell me you’re not falling for Sorey."

This actually made Alisha chuckle as it made her think back about their meeting, "I have to admit… he is quite charming and I kind of thought I was falling for him for a while."

"He is a heart breaker." Lailah’s hand against her forehead, she closed her eyes as if pained by Alisha's confession.

"I realized soon enough that I was more in love with the fact that I wanted to be like him. Carefree and strong-willed." Her eyes found the Celestial Record on the table, her fingers brushing the spine as she closed it, "He had the freedom I was seeking. He helped me see that I could find my own. I admire him yes but it’s not romantic."

Lailah considered her, "So it is someone I know. I don't consider Zaveid, that's a given but… could it be one of the Princes?"

"Lailah!" Alisha protested, blushing even more at Lailah's prodding, it was becoming embarrassing.

Later, she would recognize Lailah’s intervention for what it was because she was smiling and laughing, forgetting about her home and her mission to better remember that here she was wanted, loved, a part of their group. It was a good time to remember she needn't be so serious all the time with them.

"I might be starting to harbor romantic feeling for someone, yes." She finally conceded, to Lailah's delight.

"Tell me more! I won't repeat anything to anyone, I swear."

"That person is so much different than me, but I feel better in their presence, I feel like I can be myself and no one will judge me. I feel complete. It's weird to define but I know it's there. My heart beats faster when I attract that person’s attention. I…-I feel silly."

"That, my dear is love."

The ringing of the alert bell brought a lot of agitation, booted feet running on wooden floors. Alisha and Lailah only needed to share a glace before heading toward the deck.

Night had fallen, stars and moons obscured by dark clouds. It was easy to spot the gathering of lamps and lanterns held by crew members as they all neared the prow to see the approaching danger.

Sorey, Mikleo and Rose were there as well, it felt natural for Alisha to go with them. It was approaching from the sea when she spotted it, blue lights in the darkness. Her heart beat loudly, blood pumping into her ears as she took in the sight in disbelief.

It was a ship, sails torn and hanging limp from old mast. It wasn't blue lantern but rather blue fire, floating balls of fire lighting the dark ship. Alisha felt a chill run down her back. The Van Eltia had stopped moving, neither wind nor current shifting against its structure.

The dark ship was ahead of them, enough to be menacing, it was approaching fast, too fast, right in their direction and there was nothing the Van Eltia could do but brace for the impact.

Aifread’s voice shooting orders, the crew members went to work but Alisha couldn't take her eyes away.

"GHOSTS!!!"

Alisha felt Rose's scream reverberate into her bones.

Chapter Text

The impact was hard, Mikleo's butt and back hurting after he landed harshly on the floor. He massaged his jaw as it seemed his teeth had clanked together too. While they saw the stray ship drifting right toward the Van Eltia and had time to brace for it, the blow was still harsh. The deck wasn't horizontal anymore, leaning a bit. There was no mistaking that the other ship embedded into its front had something to do with this.

Debris had flown everywhere, supplies that weren't fixated had rolled far away from their intended places, it was utter chaos with sailors running everywhere to try and assess the damages screaming orders and reports, making Mikleo's ears ring with a buzzing sound. The temperature had dropped with the sunset, but Mikleo didn't expect he would see his breath make small clouds before his mouth. There was a strange mist settling over the bridge, adding to the ominous atmosphere.

Mikleo stood up, scanning the area. Sorey was right beside him when the ships collided but Mikleo couldn't catch him in time and he saw him fall flat on his back. Sorey seemed alright though as he stood up too, rubbing the soreness at the back of his head. Only the feel of Sorey close to him was enough to stop the wild beating of Mikleo's heart. Touching where Sorey seemed to hurt was enough to reassure Mikleo, to help him remember that it wasn't so bad, to sooth the frantic little voice in his mind that told him that something was wrong. It was just the left over shock from the shipwreck, right?

Sorey was watching him, green eyes alive with mirth as he smirked. He knew what was going on in Mikleo's restless brain.

"I'm alright. I hit my head on the deck, but not that hard."

Caught worrying too much, Mikleo felt his cheeks heat up, he quickly turned his eyes away from Sorey, searching for the others while trying to make Sorey know he wasn't that worried.

"You didn't hurt something essential then." He answered.

He swiftly avoided Sorey's poking fingers as he spotted Alisha and Lailah near them. The Captain was helping Alisha up under Lailah’s careful glance. She was smiling behind her fingers, but Mikleo knew Lailah enough to see the veiled threat in her eyes if Aifread were to make a single faux pas. Rose was approaching them too, her walking pace fast and a bit unsteady.  Mikleo grabbed the cuff of Sorey’s sleeve before he could try to poke him again and together they rejoined Alisha and the Captain.

"With the wind and current abruptly stopping there was nothing we could do. It was like that ship had appeared out of nowhere. Fortunately it seems that the Van Eltia didn't suffer extended damages or we would be sinking by now."

Stroking his beard as he explained the situation, Aifread finished his phrase with a laugh that did nothing to ease Alisha’s posture. She was tense, wringing her hands as she looked around. Lailah leaned toward her, smiling at them as she informed Alisha of their presence. Shoulders relaxing visibly, Alisha turned to them in turn. She opened her mouth to express her relief when Rose grabbed her shoulders from behind, making her jump.

"That's a ghost ship! A ghost ship, I can feel it creeping on my back. It came out of nowhere and it reeks of ghost. I don't even want to look at it."

Rose was agitated, the smallest beads of sweat gathering at her temple. She was obviously holding herself from looking behind her shoulder where the other ship’s masts leaned toward the Van Eltia. Her fear left Mikleo perplexed, nothing seemed to be scary for Rose. She removed stray spiders from a room, she gave crumbs to mice, she ignored snakes and she fought a gross looking insectoid Dragon head on. It was hard to believe she could be afraid of some myth.

"Ghost doesn't exist." He said.

"You seem to be a level headed young man." Aifread nodded at him," but I beg to differ with you over the existence of ghosts." Rose paled, eyes widening, but the pirate ignored her and continued. "As a man of sea, I often am witness to far stranger phenomenon than this, and although such a ghost ship is a first for me, many legends warn my fellow Pirates about it. I trust some of the tales I heard to be true, fine men telling about ghostly apparitions on a moonless night."

"Captain! This is bad!"

The crewmember interrupting Aifread tales must have been the Great Lords gift because Mikleo had nothing to stop Aifread before either Rose fainted or screamed her lungs out again. For now, she was trying hard to control her breathing, Alisha visibly torn between wanting to reassure her and listening to Aifread. Coughing in her hand, Lailah swallowed what she obviously wanted to say while Sorey patted Rose’s shoulder after what she seemed to breathe a little easier.

"Report, Benwick." The Captain acknowledged the blond boy.

Benwick’s fists clenched and unclenched before he settled his hands on his large leather belt. The yellow bird that usually nested on his hat was nowhere to be found. Mikleo's few meetings with the young man had left him with the impression he was cheerful and diligent in his duties. The situation must be really terrible for him to appear so distressed, features drawn over his scowling face.

"It pierced the hull. The bowsprit deviated most of the other ship but it still broke below the main deck and into the forecastle. The good news is there is no sign of water coming in, Captain. The damages seem to be located only over the water line."

The more Benwick gave report on the damage the more Aifread’s face hardened, there was nothing left of his enjoyment. This was serious, though Mikleo wasn't really fluent in ship language.

"We'll need to repair before we could set sail again. We can't risk water ingress." He turned back toward Alisha, "I promised that old idiot king I'll help you, but I find myself lacking. Lady Alisha, I'm afraid you will need to postpone your quest for a few hours."

He looked charming, taking Alisha’s hand and bowing a little. Alisha's answer while a little bashful showed she was used to dealing with men like him. It helped Mikleo understand why she barely reacted to Zaveid's ungainly flirting.

"You did quite well, Captain. There is no need for apologies. This accident was nothing you could prevent." Alisha’s eyes drifted toward the other ship, brows drawing together, she surprised more than Mikleo with the way her tone changed. "I do trust you'll do your best in assuring that we'll be able to resume both our missions very shortly."

This was not a suggestion, this was an order. Few words expressing that she trusted the pirate but expected him not to betray that trust. Mikleo could respect such a move.

Aifread’s smile showed a row of white teeth, nodding in approval at Alisha, "You have guts, I like that. Benwick! Tell those slackers to hurry up and repair the breach!"

Benwick saluted, shoulders squared, "Aye Captain!"

"Well now, my Ladies, I'll go inspect that Ghost ship that dared to break a hole into my beloved Van Eltia. Gentlemen." He tipped his hat at Sorey and Mikleo before making his way back toward the prow ready to inspect where the ships met.

"I admit I'm also rather intrigued by that ship." Sorey said.

Mikleo admitted that he was too, but he knew a rotten and dilapidated most likely haunted ship was something he wanted to approach more prudently. "Maybe we could take a closer look at it."

"I'm curious too." Alisha approved.

"No!" Rose snapped, " Nonononon! We are not going near that thing!"

She had latched onto Alisha’s arm, pulling her back toward her. Her eyes were throwing daggers at anyone that dared to open his mouth in protest. It wasn't enough to stop Lailah.

"It couldn't hurt to take a closer look, we might decide if we want to explore it after."

She passed her arm under Rose's elbow, linking their arms as she proceeded to drag a very unwilling Rose toward the shipwreck, Alisha who Rose still refused to let go of had no choice but to follow, her pleased smile however was all her own.

When Mikleo looked expectantly at Sorey not even daring to question the girls behaviors, Sorey offered him a shrug of his shoulders before imitating Lailah and locking his arm to Mikleo's, merrily walking toward the haunted ship.

It was more impressive the closer they got. While a bit smaller than the Van Eltia, the other ship was still massive, torn sails hanging limply. It had been impaled by the bow sprit. It wasn't broken but two of the smaller sails were untied and if the wind were to blow on them again they would be torn. Mikleo was careful to avoid the heaps of planks and wood coming from both the ships, more abundant as he got closer to where they collided. Those coming from the ghost ship were identifiable by their darker color, the wood turned grey and polished by what must have been years of drifting aimlessly at sea. He could hear it creak gloomily with the gentle rocking of the water, the sea surface rippling as it calmed down.

From afar, Mikleo had seen blue balls of fire floating among the sails, now he could see that those will-o-the-wisp were roaming on the bridges too. The sight was enough to make cold sweat run down his back. If the sight was starting to make him afraid, he could only imagine what Rose must feel.

 If she was pale before now she was green, lips pinched tight and eyes wide open, the whiteness of her knuckles showing how hard she was clutching at Alisha because she needed to anchor herself to something. Mikleo could tell it was to keep her hands from trembling. He wanted to tease her, his lips jutting out in a pout when he noticed that Edna was rubbing off on him.

 He startled when he noticed she was already there, near Van Aifread and hidden behind her umbrella. She didn't even turn to acknowledge them, eyes riveted on the other ship. Even though she was a pest with him, Mikleo was sensitive enough not to bother her.

 Zaveid was standing the closest he could to the wreckage, sniffing the air like he tried to identify something. Observing him reminded Mikleo of the time when Kyme would observe the sky and announce rain days before it would come, a wind seraph basking in his element. Mikleo knew to search for winds moving around, feeling nothing but a weird stillness he stood more alert.

 "What a creepy ship." Zaveid commented, making a face.

 Rose shuddered and took one step back, approving of Zaveid’s description with a stifled sound of distress.

 "There is heraldry." Alisha said pointing at a weird engraving against the top mast, "I know that crest, that's the royal crest of Mille Seseau."

 She looked surprised. Sorey became stiff where Mikleo was still holding him. He had forgotten that their arms were still linked and it was growing uncomfortable. Eventually releasing Sorey’s arm with some reluctance, Mikleo frowned when Sorey's posture didn't change. Sorey was looking at the ship with rapt attention, eyes following the gentle moves of a will-o-the-wisp as they drifted by.

 Mikleo had read once about the phenomenon hat birthed those blue fires, and he knew Sorey had read it in the same book, they had a disaccord on whether it was possible that gas from decaying flesh could spontaneously combust and stay in the air. In the end Mason, a knowing fire seraph was the one to tell them it could happen in certain circumstances.

 Knowing that, it was indeed creepy to see so much of them float around. Mikleo bit is lips, refusing to start imagining what it meant.

 "A royal ship? There must be treasure left on it. Maybe I should send some of my men on it." Aifread said briskly.

 The idea wasn't too farfetched and Mikleo found himself interested by the prospect, hands crossing over his chest. Sorey’s head was turned toward Aifread as well, interest showing his eyes. Mikleo could already feel a familiar thrill inside him.

 This seemed to make Lailah on edge, "I can feel Malevolence on that ship. It would be a bad idea to let humans on it."

 That Lailah would talk so openly about a seraphim taboo with a human had Mikleo wonder what kind of man that Pirate Captain was. Mikleo could tell the man had resonance, maybe enough to be chosen by a Dragoon's spirit. Zaveid seemed to know him; as much as Lailah was familiar, still Mikleo was troubled to say the least when Aifread had recognized Edna, telling her how much she looked like her brother. The weird pirate crew was once Eizen's.

 Their journey had opened Mikleo's eyes on the different ways seraphim around the world chose to live, in Serdio seraphim where revered and generally stayed away from humans. In Tiberoa it was still uncommon for seraph to live alongside humans but they were part of the community in the most populated places. To think that Edna’s brother had been part of Aifread’s crew for years… it was hard to imagine. But looking at Sorey, it comforted Mikleo that they could and they would spend the rest of their lives together.

 "Must be why I feel so drawn to the ship. I want to know what happened to it." Sorey said.

 Green eyes, twinkling with thirst for adventure and a little bit of mischief met Mikleo's gaze, nourishing that familiar feeling and bringing a smirk to Mikleo's lips. They were asking him, challenging him, the answer never needed to go past his lips.

 Sorey would be very disappointed when Mikleo would find treasure before him, and it won't make him sorry.

 "We may have to purify it," Lailah approved.

 Aifread considered Lailah’s advice and the prospect that some of them were willing to go explore the ghost ship, "Maybe if some Dragoons were willing to help, we could share some of the treasures."

 Hands on her hips, the prospect of finding treasures seemed to have piqued Rose’s interest too, potential ghosts forgotten for the time being, "You would have us do all the work, and I may be willing to let you have ten percent." She stated.

 "I'm transporting you for free, and my ship was damaged, this at least calls for sixty percent." Aifread leaned toward her, using his taller frame to try to intimidate her.

Rose eyes sent flames, her chest nearly colliding with Aifread's as she leaned in turn, "You are dreaming, that ship his dangerous, the decks are rotten and it's malevolent, you have no choice but to let us retrieve the treasures for you unless you want some Hellions as crewmates. That a thirty percent for you."

 Aifread's eyes narrowed but Rose held his gaze, "Forty."

 "Thirty-five."

 Aifread held up his hand for her to shake, "Deal."

 "I feel like we are the ones she sold." Lailah said in a small voice.

 They made bridges with ropes and planks to access the ghost ship, Zaveid windstepped making their steps lighter and almost weightless. Still, the floor creaked loudly when Mikleo stepped on the main deck.

 The fog was thicker from here, making the atmosphere stuffy and wet. It didn't smell of sea and salt like in the Van Eltia but of dust and coal, like something had burned there. The will-o-the- wisps were nowhere in sight, likely the breath and movement of living beings chasing them away.

 Arms winding around himself, Mikleo was starting to feel uncomfortable in his tight clothes, it was cold, yet he was feeling hot. Everything felt too still.

 Rose was showing a bit of hesitancy again, now that the excitation over the promise of riches was left behind, adding to the general feeling of uneasiness that lingered around the group. It seemed that while amused by Rose's primitive fear Alisha was doing all she can to offer her support, standing a bit closer than what she used too.

 Sorey was the first to take a step to walk further on the deck, "I didn't know Malevolence could feel so thick." He said, face souring like he had eaten a lemon.

 Watching carefully around, Lailah gave her impression, "It usually sticks to a person or an object. We should try to look for that if we want to purify it."

 She didn't say anything about the obvious destruction around them, screaming about death and violence. There were holes on the floor, Mikleo making note to be careful were he stepped. There were debris from the mast, rotting ropes and sails, the ship was beyond dilapidated, yet the architectures, the ornament showed it couldn't be that old.  The group started to walk around the main deck, instinctively staying close together in that hostile environment.

 The state of the ship was making treasure hunting difficult, not that Mikleo had intended for it to be easy like finding coffers on the first floor. He had stopped in his search though, eyes drawn toward an abandoned sword at his feet, following deep scratch marks carved into the floor where the weapon had skidded away from its owner. It was close to a sails remain, torn and worn by the years. Something was under it and the lump it made left nothing to imagination. People died here.

 Mikleo had to admit he was curious too, focusing on trying to understand what happened here was suddenly more appealing than beating Sorey in treasure hunting.

 He averted his eyes, quick strides taking him back toward the rest of the group. There was a large set of stairs that would lead them deeper into the ship, below deck where the cabins and hold would be, but somehow it was making everyone nervous and they all stood there staring at it. Mikleo still skeptical about the existence of ghosts, seeing that after a few minutes nothing weird our out of the ordinary had happened was about to make the first step.

 "It's killing us!...I don't want to die!"

 Mikleo held his breath and stopped moving feeling everyone tense around him. It wasn't a voice he had heard before, but the most alarming was that it had sounded distant yet close, like echoing into a cave.

 Rose’s jaw was working as she tried to not make a move, to not look behind, "Who said that?" she asked instead.

 Expression calm and composed, Edna pointed her fingers at something behind Rose's shoulder, "Him."

 The scream Rose let out rang in Mikleo's brain again, making him flinch as she turned sharply to punch whoever talked behind her. She screamed even harder when her fist went right through a chest, to land right into Zaveid's face.

 The wind seraph huffed, cupping his pained mouth, "Why me," he moaned, a quick wind arte to heal himself, he worked his jaw before adding, "Good right hook by the way."

 Rose was still breathing harshly, eyes widened and looking frantically around, the realization that she hit Zaveid did nothing to tranquilize her. Whatever that was, Mikleo still refused to accept it could have been a ghost, it looked at them with a human face, features pulled in an expression of fear before it had vanished.

 "I TOLD YOU THEY WERE REAL!" Rose shouted, turning her fear at Mikleo.

 Not knowing how to respond to that, Mikleo shrugged, "I had no real proof they existed."

 Lailah hummed, her hand around her cards showing that she had readied herself for a fight, "Actually, this has more to do with Malevolence."

 Mouth shutting, Rose’s face seemed to regain some color as she considered Lailah's words, "That wasn't a ghost?"

 Lailah shook her head, "Not exactly." She put a finger on her lips searching for words, "Sometimes, Malevolence can be like a sponge and absorb negative feelings instead of intensifying them. I think what we saw was a manifestation of strong feelings."

 Sorey’s eyes looked at his feet and his fist clenched, "It seems a battle happened here. If this was feelings of a crew member he must have had a violent death."

 "We are witnessing a tragedy from the past." Alisha stated though it sounded like she couldn't believe her own words.

 It seemed to appease Rose, who seemed to be able to breath properly again. She looked around, her gazes landing where the apparition startled her, "Do you think…" she hesitated on her words, "the ship would show us more of those?"

 Lailah squeezed her joined hands together, "There is a lot of Malevolence."

 The sudden clank of wood falling, colliding against woods made Mikleo heart miss a beat, his nerves highly strung. His eyes immediately went toward the noise were Zaveid was standing running a hand though his hair, showing the debris of mast he had moved to give them access to a shut door.

 "I thought it would be a better idea to check the captain's cabin first."

 A shudder went thought Zaveid's body, Mikleo not the only one glaring daggers at him. Still, he had made a point, the large door nearly falling off as Edna pulled it open. She entered without waiting for the others. Sorey followed her just as promptly as if moved by an invisible pull. Mikleo was right on is heels, gritting his teeth when the oppressive feeling became more present once he had a roof over his head.

They were walking into a narrow hallway, with carefully carved beams filled with cobwebs. The hallway was more richly decorated and less in disrepair than the deck, a great indication that it was indeed the way to the captain's cabin. Mikleo could only guess that the fight didn't reach that part. There were two unopened door on the side wall but Sorey ignored them and went right into the farthest door at the end of the hallway.

The room behind was large. Alcove filled with shelves and ruined knickknacks, a thrown desk and scattered worm eaten books that pulled at Mikleo's heart. There was a small hole in the roof, were the chandelier's suspension had been attached before falling in a heap of metal on the ground. 

There was also two unopened chest lying against the wall, yet as much as he had wanted to win this competition with Sorey, Mikleo couldn't will himself to move toward them.

Instead, Mikleo followed Sorey's gaze where it had landed onto the large painting hung on the wall. The colors were faded and old, the sea air turning them yellowish and blurry. Yet the green of the woman’s eyes were still identifiable as well as her gentle smile and brown hair falling over her shoulder.

Hand covering his mouth, Mikleo’s words left his mouth without filter, "She's beautiful."

It was honest, she had that kind regal beauty he could appreciate, and there was something indiscernibly familiar in her smile. Mikleo tilted his head in thought, she reminded him of someone but he couldn't quite put his finger on it.

"She does look like a Queen." Alisha added, recognizing the clothing and the posture of the woman.

Mikleo nodded in approval. That must be it.

"Please, help me."

The moment ended when another disembodied voice resonated against the walls. Rose tensed again but this time she managed to hold her scream though Mikleo was certain after hearing Alisha's intake of breath that she must be holding onto her. He did not expect the urge to hold onto someone he suddenly felt.

The man now standing before them was livid, rich yet ragged clothes covering flesh so thin it was mostly skin over bones. His cheeks hollow and eyes never looking at them, but the most concerning thing was how they could see through him. The desk behind his back, the portrait behind his head, the floor under his feet, it was like he was nothing but a mist. Memories of feelings, Lailah had said. Mikleo breathed, in, out, remembering that.

Eyes on the floor, the captain continued to talk.

"He…killed the crew, the nanny, even the child…the princess… him, the Black Monster." he said, sadness poured into every syllable.

Sorey took a step back, closer to Mikleo. Mikleo’s hand lifted in response, landing on Sorey’s shoulder supporting him, reassuring the both of them as they were both overwhelmed by compassionate feelings. Somewhere, Mikleo knew, and Sorey too, they knew it. It was almost like they could feel the monster’s presence lingering in every broken thing, bones burned to ashes, walls and floors blackened by soot.

He could feel Lailah's presence falling behind them, like she would cast a protective blanket the moment she felt they needed it. But Mikleo was too disturbed, stomach churning and head swarming to properly recognize her.

"This… this was done by the black monster too?!" Sorey inquired though they both knew the answer.

The man raised his head, now looking back at Sorey, Mikleo trying not to make a sound when he saw his empty eye sockets. They were black sunk holes that no light could penetrate. He distantly heard Rose stifle a yelp.

"We couldn't protect the princess…" he repeated voice monotone, "So we couldn't finish dying."

"Ghosts!" Rose hissed between her teeth.

She probably believed that if she moved too much or made too much noise, the captain would make his wrath rain upon her.

"That's obviously a ghost," Edna whispered to her, making her squeak, "With how transparent he is, do you think he passes through things? I wonder why he doesn’t pass through the ground." She was haughtily serious, but by now Mikleo learned to hear the teasing in her voice.

Raising a hand to cover her mouth, Rose barely succeeded in holding back a chuckle, all the tension in her shoulders making her let out a nervous laugh. Mikleo glared daggers at both her and Edna, though he would never admit being grateful that Edna probably defused Rose's outburst.

Still, the ghost captain continued to look at Sorey, like he was aware of the interruption, he waited to the silence to fall again.

"Please, I beg of you travelers. Destroy the fear… please send the souls of knights to rest." The sorrow on his face reflected in his voice.

"It's almost like… Malevolence prevents the souls from finding rest…" Lailah said, seeming more surprised and sorry than anything else.

Feeling Sorey shift against him, Mikleo moved to give him room as he pulled out his Dragoon's spirit, the pearly gleam immediately attracting the ghost’s attention.

"We will."

It was with a rested smile, gentle light radiating from the spirit that the captain disappeared, leaving the room cold and stifling.

Sorey turned toward the rest of the group, the kind expression he had showed to the ghost crumbling to give way to grief, lips turning down as Sorey pocketed his Dragoon's spirit.

"The Black Monster…he killed those people for no reason." He shook his head.

Chest heavy, Mikleo pulled on the cuff of his sleeve, protecting himself within the confine of his own arms, "It seems so." He saw the way Sorey fisted his hand in frustration, "Or maybe there is more to it." He whispered more to himself.

A metal key fell from one of the shelves, clinking softly against the floor and attracting the group's attention.

Alisha picked it up, holding it delicately between her fingers and tracing the decoration, on it. "There is something carved. It says royal rooms."

"They must be situated right next to those of the captain." Lailah said, looking at the key with interest, then back where the captain was standing, "Is he trying to guide us?"

"Let's try it."

As they left the captain's cabin in search of the rooms the keys would open, Mikleo’s mind was too preoccupied for him to notice the way Rose’s eyes bore holes into his back.

Mikleo was starting to suffocate the more they searched the hallway, until Alisha’s eyes lit up when they finally found a door that could be the one. It was the farthest away from the captain's cabin, but it was large and had delicate wood carvings on its frame and even though the handle fell down, the lock was lined with silver and holding the door tightly shut.

There was a breathless moment as Alisha turned the key that ended in a collective inhale when the door creaked open.

Behind was an antechamber, one torn couch nearly rotten to dust against the wall and weapons scattered on the ground. Mikleo's eyes followed the walls to land on the bones hanging from the destroyed wall, its skull was crushed, one large piece of wood jutting out from its eye socket. Its armor was on the ground, the same sigil that the one on the mast emblazoned on its chest.

Rose was the last to enter the room, taking on the revered silence that followed the painted scene of violence in that room. Lailah turned to Sorey trying to talk him into how Malevolence obviously was aggravating the deceased soul's unrest. But Mikleo couldn't really hear her from how loud his own thoughts were. They were so loud that he couldn't comprehend them. It hammered into his brain, jumbles of words and feelings he was trying yet failing to disentangle.

He was starting to be out of breath, taking gulp after gulp of air that did nothing to fill his lungs, nothing to clear his brain. His moves, following the others were automatic, his eyes never leaving Sorey’s back when most of his thoughts circled around him and that Monster. He thought he had come through with the idea, that thing would be part and Sorey and his lives; that they couldn't forget about it anymore. Yet he still wanted to protect Sorey from it, he wanted for Sorey to stop digging into the matter, to stop hurting himself.

He looked up to meet Edna's glare, one eyebrow raised as she looked at him. Rose stood besides her mirroring Edna’s expression before it morphed into concern, mouth opening like she wanted to tell him something. Mikleo blinked wondering why they were looking at him like that.

"We won't give you Princess Etoile!" a disembodied shout sounded besides Rose.

She gasped but held herself back when the see-through man, helmet over his head and armor on his back brandished a sword at her. Instinct prevailed over fear and she raised her own weapon in answer.

The ghostly knight lunged, sword going right at Rose. His let out a pained, dying noise as his sword went right through her, Rose seemed confused, mouth hanging slightly open as the apparition blinked out of existence, she barely moved.

"We'll protect her, even if it costs our lives."

This time the voice came from her other side, where Edna was and it was almost like she glared the ghost into oblivion, never batting a lash as the knight raised his sword before disappearing too.

"After counting one hundred and eight years, when the moon that never sets glows red, a moon child descends upon the earth to fill the world with holy bliss. However, what was actually brought was the child of destruction, The Black Monster."

The way Sorey repeated Masedra's words froze Mikleo's blood, his heart growing heavy in his chest with need, the craving, the want to make Sorey forget about all that stronger than ever. He didn't know why. It was irrational. His shoulders were shaking.

He licked his dry lips, "You-Do you really think it kills just for the sake of it?"

Sorey nodded, "Until now, I can only think he kills only to his own satisfaction."

Mikleo’s head lowered, considering Sorey's answer, searching a counter-argument.

"It's all in the past anyway. Why bother." Rose snapped, ending his trail of thought.

Rose crossed her arms over her chest when they all looked at her, some concerned, others inquiring, she ignored them. "We should move on."

She showed nothing of her previous fear when she walked right toward the last unopened door. Mikleo watched her red head as she turned the knob, a hand covering his heart as it beat wildly in his chest. He sighed. Why did he think exploring this weird ship would be a good idea again?

"You Black Monster…!"

Another voice shouted right beside Rose again she sighed, clearly used to such apparitions by now. The ghostly knight was hovering toward her, seemingly wanting to push her away from the door.

"How dare you come here, pursuing Princess Etoile." Another one appeared in the corner, near the skeleton, "As long as we are here with her, we are not going to give her up."

This one felt different though, he wasn't nearly transparent like the other and red flames were burning in his eyes. He was glaring at them all. Mikleo’s staff appeared in his hand. This was no ghost, this was a Hellion.

"Oh no!" Lailah exclaimed, confirming his suspicion, "Malevolence corrupted that poor soul."

Sorey’s sword parried the blow meant for Rose's head. The space was too narrow for all of them to properly approach the Hellion, but Mikleo was close enough, feeling the warmth of his spirit on his forehead. He called on its power, not enough to turn into a Dragoon though.

"Aqua Serpent!"

Twined Dragons made of water crashed against the knight who hissed in anger, taking a step back, his teeth grinded loudly as he readied his sword again. Mikleo hissed, that arte should have been enough to send him crashing against the wall.

Sorey never hesitated. He jumped and tried an aerial assault on the Hellion, his own arte making his sword glow. He engaged with the ghost knight, never giving him room to approach any of his companions.

Their swords clashed. The grey skin on the ghost’s face pulled taught as he screamed. Sorey’s face was locked into a concentrated expression. He dodged an attack, sliding away from the fall of the sword to attempt a strike from the side.

While his moves were stiff, the ghost hellion was fast and he blocked Sorey. They were looking at each other, focused only on the opponent in front of them.

Sorey didn't want to attack the man, his anger and frustration reaching Mikleo as well as his compassion, because Sorey was striking at an knight turned Hellion, an innocent soul turned monster only by a real monster’s actions, The Black Monster’s endless cycle of killing leaving pain and sorrow in its wake. Mikleo could feel just how much Sorey felt the need to end that.

He stepped back. Sorey was already pushing the knight to defense. It was over after four more clashes, Lailah gasping in awe as silver white flames erupted from Sorey's sword and burned through Malevolence.

The knight let out a sound Mikleo had never heard before. There was undeniable pain, in it but also something akin to confusion and surprise. It was as if the ghost was starting to understand what was happening.

When the flames dyed down he was like all the others ghosts on this ship, a fleeting apparition that lingered between here and the Earth pulse, incapable of finding the way that would guide him back to the Great Tree.

When he raised his head at Sorey, it was like an indescribable relief found him, a blissful smile pulling on his lips, "Princess!"

Sorey blinked at him in confusion, still a bit breathless from the fight, he wiped away sweat from his forehead. "It's over now." He breathed almost a whisper.

It was like Mikleo could feel all of Sorey’s sympathy in that single sentence. He hoped the ghost was aware enough to feel it too. His hand clenched on his staff, wanting to feel something warmer, something human against his palm instead.

"There is no Black Monster. Suffer no more." He continued.

Everyone was starting silently at the scene, Lailah’s hand covering her mouth. Rose was biting her lips. Mikleo was used to Sorey, he knew how he could be but it just felt so raw.

The knight’s face fell again and for a second Mikleo feared he would relapse and attack Sorey, but instead he let go of his sword.

"Thank god, you are alive Princess Etoile. I…" He was looking intently at Sorey, clutching his transparent chest, "We can rest in peace."

He lowered his eyes as Sorey opened his mouth to ask something, brow frowning in confusion, but before Sorey could do more than inhale, the ghost was gone.

Mikleo approached Sorey, finally able to touch him, "Are you unharmed?"

Confusion etched on his features, Sorey’s eyes were still watching the air where the ghost stood just a moment ago, "Hum?" he inquired, only now registering Mikleo's touch on his shoulder, the hand hovering near his face,"Ye-yeah."

Instead of touching Sorey's cheek like he wanted too, Mikleo’s hand rose to massage his temple, the beginning of a migraine making him flinch. He sighed as he shoulders sagged. He was growing tired by the minute.

"You really are weird." Edna’s comment cut though the stiff air like a sharp knife. When Sorey looked at her, she merely shrugged, "Talking to ghosts and all."

"Don't be like that Edna!" Lailah interjected clapping her hands, "It was obviously the right way!"

Rose chuckled, hiding behind her fist "Still, he mistook you for a Princess." She coughed to hide that.

"But we aren't done yet, I can still feel Malevolence." Sorey offered.

Then as he looked at the still unopened door, Rose said no more and opened it. She let Sorey go through it first and followed after. Alisha was quick and went after them casting a glance at the rest of the party. Edna leaned back against the wall, waiting, obviously having her dose of cheesiness for the day. She seemed uninterested, playing with the Normin doll hanging from her umbrella.

It was with hesitation that Mikleo started to follow Sorey into the royal chamber, still registering the scene that just happened. He had a bad feeling that kept creeping under his skin and not knowing why was giving him the impression he was going crazy. He sought Lailah’s eyes but she was discussing something in a hushed tone with Zaveid and he only caught the word Dragoon before understanding they were discussing Sorey's ability. That wasn't a subject he wanted to hear about right now. No need to be a scholar to see that those purifying flames were coming from Sorey's spirit.

The room felt lighter after that, but Mikleo still pulled at his neckline, his clothes feeling too tight. Malevolence must be affecting him more that he thought.

Taking a deep steadying breath, he stepped into the royal chamber deciding he preferred to stay where Sorey was either way.

The noise of his steps were instantly muffled by the moth-eaten carpet covering the ground and just like Sorey before him, when his eyes landed on it he could only see the broken cradle. His was staring at the linen inside it, dark splatters staining it. Mikleo felt cold.

He willed himself to look away, taking in the ransacked rooms sight instead.

The chair next to the cradle was almost burned to ashes, yet a woman as transparent as the other ghosts, was sitting on it. She was watching over the cradle, expression serene and full of affection. Then she stood up, royal blue dress pooling at her feet as fear took over her features. It was like she was feeling their presence, but couldn't see them. She started pacing.

"Princess Etoile, she was still so young. If she wasn't a Princess of Mille Seseau, this wouldn’t have happened." She said, distress jumbling her words.

Sorey stepped closer to her, his hand hovering like he wanted to offer comfort before it fell back against his side.

"Princess of Mille Seseau?" he asked, wanting to know more about what happened.

The woman turned slowly. If she had been breathing, Mikleo was sure her chest would be moving rapidly. She looked at Sorey, her translucent face stunned.

"Oh my, you are…" she trailed,

When she approached Sorey in a brusque movement, Mikleo felt his body react, the tension moving his muscle before he could think, but Sorey didn't even flinch, the woman stopping an inch away.

"Alive." She breathed, the same relief of the hellionized knight coating her words, "Lords, it wasn't in vain…I've been wandering for seventeen years and longing for you."

Maybe she wasn't talking at him, but it really looked like she had recognized Sorey, her eyes were looking right into his. Sorey was holding her gaze back, every bit of his confusion slowly fading away as his hand rose to clutch at his mantle, right over his heart. It was like he had realized something. The woman’s tale was terrible, killing a child was unjustifiable.

Rose was so serious beside him but her blue eyes refused to look at the woman, she was instead watching Sorey intensely. Alisha was looking at the scene in reverent silence.

The woman moved like she wanted to take Sorey's hand in hers, but seemed sad when she went right through him, her chest heaved in a simulated sight when she looked at the ceiling.

"I can now end everything. I can go to the place where everyone is."

With a last smile she disappeared before Sorey could ask her what was burning on the tip of his tongue, he let it out in a murmur, "Why…why do you keep taking me for the Princess."

There was something in her eyes, and in that knights that told Mikleo there was something really strange about that, Sorey must have felt it too.

"Sorey, we must-" Rose started.

Her sentence trailed into a startled inhale when the ship rocked and cracked, making their feet unsteady. Bits of ceiling started to fall around them and Rose didn't wait for permission to grasp Alisha and run out of the royal chamber,

"The ship is sinking?!" she said not believing her own words, "We banished the ghost’s malediction and now it's sinking!" She exclaimed, now registering what was happening.

Mikleo’s eyes widened as he met Sorey's, green still darkened by doubts before they cleared. He pushed Mikleo out of the room before making sure everyone was out and running back toward the safety of the Van Eltia.

The ship kept shaking, leaning more and more toward one side and the group moved together. They were closer to the ship's stern and the way back was littered with obstacles. They had to reach the prow where the makeshift bridges toward the Van Eltia were. The run through the length of the deck seemed interminable as the ghost ship fell apart around them.

Mikleo heard Lailah yelp as a hole formed before her, Zaveid took her hand and windstepped to help her away from it. Then as the Van Eltia prow came in sight, Aifread shouted orders to cast more ropes and more planks to help them, Zaveid grabbed Edna's hand windstepping both women to safety. It was as if they flew over the makeshift bridge, landing on the other side with graceful and calculated movements.

Thought about Dezel's promise to teach Mikleo that technique resonated in is head. Mikleo gathered his strength and ran faster.

Lungs burning, Mikleo saw the makeshift bridge getting closer while Zaveid came back to grab Sorey and Alisha before windstepping again, helping two people at a time. The need to thank the wind seraph profusely settled on his chest, Mikleo finding the taste of it bitter. In his haste and relief at seeing Sorey safe he tripped on a rope. He righted himself, too frightened to chuckle at his own clumsiness. He had to go faster with only a short distance separating him from the Van Eltia but the ghost ship angle was making him slide now.

Rose grabbed his hand, helping him climb on the bridge, her palm sweaty but warm and giving him a sense of security. He was starting to gather enough breath to thank her when he the bridge shook in turn. Fear struck Mikleo like one of Gramps bolts when the bridge broke in two. Nothing but air between him and the dark sea bellow, the fall too much a distance that Mikleo refused to look at.

He was focused on Rose's eyes, pupils making them almost entirely as she tightly gripped his wrist. The sweat on her hand was making the process of holding Mikleo difficult, Rose’s other arm wrapped around the Bowsprit. She was grunting in exertion, Mikleo's ears ringing with Sorey's calls of his name. The desperation in the sound telling him that someone must be holding him back. The Bowstrip was breaking, weakened by the ships collision, it was collapsing under their combined weight. A loud crack brought Mikleo back to reality.

"Let me go. I’m a water Seraph, I'll be fine."

Rose’s eyes widened at the suggestion, she pulled harder as she tried to hoist him up. He was only half lying, he couldn't swim, never having felt the need to learn how too. Moreover the ghost ship sinking had left the sea agitated, strong waves breaking against the Van Eltia, whirlpool forming at the surface. There was a chance he would be pulled under, but Rose didn't need to know that, there was no need for the both of them to fall. There was no fear anymore.

"No I won't let go!"

There was desperation in her gaze that stunned Mikleo, he was left mouth hanging open, unable to find an argument to dissuade Rose from endangering her own life.

There was desperation in her eyes, "I'll never let someone I care about die again!" she screamed.

The Bowstrip cracked loudly again, both their bodies shaking with the noise. Rose’s eyes never left Mikleo's as they fell.

Chapter Text

After finding them shelter, Rose’s first concern was to build a fire. She was shivering from the cold and left over shock, her soaked clothes weighing a ton on her weary shoulders. Mikleo was unconscious.

The idiot had exhausted himself, spending all his energy against many moving currents for them to stay afloat even though it became obvious that his inability to swim was making him panic. Rose would never be able to forget how hard he fought to remain calm, to focus. He had fallen asleep, unable to keep his eyes open as soon as they touched the sand.

The fire crackled, loud in the small cave Rose had selected. It was night and she had absolutely no clues about where they had drifted, they may as well be cast on a deserted island. They would look for help with the sun rise, but for now Rose was more concerned with the way she could remove Mikleo's vest to put it to dry.

There would be an awkward moment, if Mikleo were to wake up now, with Rose in a shirt and underpants standing over him and trying to undress him. It made Rose chuckle, having the image of Mikleo blushing and flustered trying to retreat against the cave wall.

She was thinking. Looking at his resting face, long lashes brushing porcelain cheeks, Rose gave up undressing Mikleo. He was a water seraph they couldn't catch a cold, right?

Instead, she sat closer to the fire, pleased as the warmth alleviated her shivering. Then she brought Mikleo closer, and after a short moment of hesitation, she pulled his head on her lap. He was a bit cold to the touch but was getting warmer by the fire. It made Rose smile, relieved that he would be okay. She still had to thank him after all.

Her gaze drifted back to the dancing flames, the dry wood again made small cracking noises. It was soothing, coupled with the sound from the wave's outsides and Mikleo’s steady breathing. It was a reminder that they had made it, together.

Her fingers started to absentmindedly brush Mikleo's hair on his forehead as she started to reminisce, to ask herself why. Rose looked back at Mikleo’s face when her finger caught on Mikleo's circlet. The piece of jewelry was unexpectedly sturdy to have stayed on after such an ordeal. Well, the blue sea Dragoon spirit was embedded to it after all.

That was another mystery surrounding Mikleo, one she had no answer to. Dragoon spirits were supposed to be unbreakable. There was no way to polish, carve and set it, yet Rose had the proof someone was capable of doing it under her eyes.

"You know. Sometimes I still wonder why I saved you that day. "She told him, looking at his unresponsive face.

It felt like something was unlocking deep within herself. Like she was filled to the brim with repressed feelings and needed an outlet. Now she could talk openly, Mikleo wouldn't know. No one would resent her.

"I don't mean when the Dragon wanted to eat you. I meant the other time, when Edna attacked you."

She folded on herself, her hair falling into a curtain around her face now holding Mikleo’s face with both her hands.

"Dezel saw something in you… something in both of you. He knew of my mission, my burden and even thought it was all for his revenge, as always… he…I can't really know what he was trying to accomplish. Who am I fooling?"

Her sight racked her body with a suppressed shudder, "I miss him so much. Lunarre doesn't know what he took away from me." She murmured.

After a few moments, Rose gathered herself, holding back the tears that burned in the back of her eyes. She hadn't cried since the night he sacrificed himself for her, she wasn't about to give in now. She was just tired. Her back straightening, she lifted one of her hands to touch at the plain black choker she usually concealed behind her yellow scarf. Her breath faltered as another shiver went through her. She may be catching a cold after all.

"Even though Brad trained me to be a Black Dragoon, he had wanted me to be a new Shepherd, he never wanted for me to share his burden. This choker… it should have been buried with him. But I had to have a memento. I guess you could understand, with the careful way you hold onto that circlet."

Rose paused as Mikleo's brow scrunched, his face showing displeasure. She waited, making sure he was still sleeping soundly. A fond smile graced her lips and she ran a hand through blue white locks again, trying to sooth Mikleo.

"Having a nightmare?" she asked, amused by the irony, "This stupid choker plague me with them too."

It was like saying that out loud soured her mood, the muscles in Rose's jaw working as she clenched her teeth.

"Did you know that the first person chosen by the Black Dragoon spirit was a human named Rose too? Talk about fates, right? You'll have a blast if you were awake, but you can't know that. No, I have to keep holding things from you. She was in love with a man that had deep violet eyes, almost the same hue as yours."

It was weird. Now that Rose had started running her mouth, it was like she couldn't stop. But it felt good, lifting a weight that had piled on her chest. Suddenly, Rose flinched, the thought bringing back memories that weren't hers. It was distant and unclear, but it was like the feeling of the woman wearing that choker when it all happened surged in her. Her body seized, hand clenching over her heart. Then just like it came, it passed. Rose opening her eyes to a fire lit cave. The shadows dancing on the wall weren't of monsters, the young seraph on her lap alive and well. She wasn't looking at violet eyes whose light was slowly being extinguished by death.

It took a while for her to calm down, her fingers caressing Mikleo's hair in a steady rhythm. Again she started to feel the need to continue, taking the risk of being assailed by another memory.

"Dezel was so angry when I put the choker on for the first time. I knew why after the first nightmare assaulted me."

She paused again as her legs were starting to feel uncomfortable, growing numb from Mikleo's head on her lap. She shifted him a little.

"It wasn't a nightmare. It was her will, her mission, her memory. The burden she passed on to me."

She had let it out, the truth about herself that she wasn't really who she pretended to be. Her voice had lowered like it was an unforgivable secret. Her shoulders were now resting against the damp cave wall, drowsiness making her lids drop slightly. The flames were diminishing, but Rose wasn't cold anymore, almost like Mikleo was the one warming her. Like she was the one being comforted.

"I kept being drawn to you… must be a Dragoon thing. So I thought but then…there is Sorey too, you just can't not love him…and Alisha… she changed so much, still is. Did you see how that Prince looked at her like she hung the moon? I think I would have killed him if he dared to touch her too intimately…" the cadence of Rose's words was decreasing, "… It’s been a while since I felt alive like this. I could be the Rose from this era, not the one carrying on a legacy from a woman long dead. I could be me.  Rose of the Sparrow Feather, Rose of the Scattered Bones... I'm happy, I don't want it to end."

Her head was resting against the wall now, her eyes closing as Rose allowed her body to relax. It was true, she couldn't remember the last time she felt so light. Even with the other Sparrow Feathers, she loved them too but it just felt different, she couldn't place it.

"It so good, traveling with everyone, you, Sorey, Lailah, Edna, even Zaveid…and Alisha. But… you can feel it too, right? There is something with Sorey, the voices he hears…that weird power…I know it would kill you… but I can't imagine how the others will react if my suspicions were to come true….I don't want to lose them too… I don't know if I could forgive myself if I were to kill Sorey."

It was with that in mind, knowing she has nowhere to go with that thought that Rose allowed sleep to claim her.

Mikleo knew he was safe. He was still feeling the struggle, the pull against his body as he fought the waves and currents to stay afloat, all the while holding Rose and his head above the surface. It was an experience he never wanted to experience again. The relief when his feet landed on solid earth when his fingers grasped sand was so intense that he let sleep take him without fighting.

He still felt sorry for giving Rose all the responsibilities after that, but he just couldn't keep up anymore. There was worry in her eyes when his knees gave up and he let himself lie down, but there also was the same relief that they had made it alive. It was blurry, but Mikleo could almost tell she nodded at him, acknowledging that he was letting her handle the rest.

Mikleo was certain he hadn't died but the scenery that greeted him felt like a representation of the underworld. The sky above him dark and devoid of stars, he was surrounded by naked trees, sinuous and tortured things whose branches tore into his clothes as he walked.

The ground was grey, covered in a layer of ashes that rose with each of Mikleo's steps, staining his white pants.

He was dreaming again, the same oppressive feeling of uneasiness assaulting him as hard as last time, with Mikleo unable to control his own reactions, not even alarmed by his surroundings. He just walked, straight ahead on a path he didn't want to follow but was pulled into like a string puppet. He walked, and walked for an undeterminable amount of time. A single thought echoing in his brain. Sorey.

Somehow, he knew he was looking for him.

When he finally saw him, sitting in a lazy posture, wrist poised on his bent knee as he faced the emptiness of a chasm, it was like his own emotions were given back to Mikleo in a single moment. He let out the tiniest whimper, fear colliding with relief and desperation.

Sorey's back was facing Mikleo, his head tilted toward the Everlasting moon that was glowing red again. A gust of wind rustled his hair and Mikleo noticed he was wearing his Shepherd mantle, stained and darkened by ashes.

Mikleo’s instincts screamed at him not to move. Memories of terrors and pain from last time replaying in his mind he stood frozen, breath caught in his throat. He observed warily as Sorey remained unmoving, staring into space. Then gathering his strength, Mikleo took a step, mouth opening to form a call.

"Don't come any closer."

The tone of Sorey's voice cut Mikleo like a knife, his mouth snapping shut, it was a weak and pitiful sound like Sorey was trying very hard for his voice to stay steady. His back was still facing Mikleo, but his shoulders hunched. A move so subtle it could have been missed if Mikleo wasn't so attuned to Sorey's body language.

"Sorey, I-" Mikleo tried, hand reaching toward the other.

"I don't want to hurt you." Sorey interrupted standing up before the chasm. There was a slight tremor that moved his shoulder as he diverted his gaze away from the moon, head turning to look back at Mikleo over his shoulder, "I-I couldn't stop last time… I don't want to do it again."

This did nothing to appease Mikleo, he wasn't going to listen to Sorey when he felt this wrecked. Mikleo wanted to protect him from whatever was plaguing him. Sorey seemed on the verge of tears, it felt so wrong. But Mikleo couldn't move, his jaw worked uselessly as he tried to open it. Again he was a hopeless witness of whatever horror this dream wanted him to see. Mikleo braced himself, feeling his heart squeeze in anticipation. He tried to convey his feelings into his gaze, to tell Sorey how much his wanted to be there for him, to reach for him and hold him into the protective shield of his arms.

Sorey turned toward him, facing him fully. His arms hanged limply at his sides before he lifted them looking at his twitching fingers like he itched to hold onto something.

"I hear it call to me, ask me to come back. It is where I belong, my place is there. This is my fate. I can't bring you there with me so stop following me, Mikleo. Stop before I'm forced to hurt you."

His voice was steadier, surer. He looked so tired, features pulled taught and dark bags under his eyes. Sorey closed his eyes slowly, breathing out something like a choked off laughter. It was him who breached the small distance that separated them, Mikleo inhaling sharply as Sorey's cold hand cupped his cheek.

"But you'll never give up on me, right?"

Mikleo nodded while nuzzled his cheek against the contact of Sorey's hand, "Never." He was almost shocked by his own breathlessness. His heart was pounding in his chest, instinct telling him to run, that he was a prey before a dangerous predator, "I'll follow you to the end of the world."

There was a softness in Sorey’s eyes that told Mikleo he had nothing to fear, that he was facing his Sorey but even though the red moon was behind him, it was like it reflected into them as Sorey’s expression turned sad.

Both his hands landed on Mikleo's shoulders as he bit into his lips. Eyes never leaving Mikleo's, Sorey tilted his head to the side as blankness settled over his face.

"I'm the end of the world."

Mikleo's eyes snapped open, his movements escaping him as he tried to rise then slumped back down, still feeling the harsh push of Sorey's hands against his shoulders, still feeling nothing but the emptiness of the chasm behind him. His lungs were struggling to find sustenance while his mouth took a huge gulp of air trying to feed them. He was just starting to regain focus when he felt a hand on his arm. In his tentative to jerk himself away from the touch his back hit a hard surface.

"Hey, it's okay, it's me. That’s it, breathe in, out, in, out, you are doing great."

Rose didn't try to touch him again, but the steady beat of her voice helped Mikleo greatly. The familiarity of it was an anchor to everything that happened, why he was finding himself back against a rock, itching everywhere from the sand in his clothes, that he had dreamed again. It was just a dream, his mind playing tricks on him, using his own insecurity to torment him. That was nothing else.

Eventually, his breathing evened out and he blinked to find Rose's concerned face leaned toward him. Mikleo's attention was rapidly attracted by the man beside her, the tiny wrinkles at the corner of his eyes deepened by his frown. He was pulling on his grey mustache.

"Mr. Mayvin ?" Mikleo inquired, voice croaking from misuse.

The recognition, as well as finding out that Mikleo seemed all right brought his usual cheerfulness back into the man who smiled profusely as he handed a water canteen to Mikleo.

"Believe me. I was as surprised as you to find you both here." He said looking back at Rose. "There are shady looking men roaming all over the sea looking for you. They had merchant papers, but I still can recognize a pirate when I see one."

It was Mikleo’s turn to frown while he drank the offered water before nearly choking on it as he remembered. "The Ship! We fell from-"

He stopped himself, eyes widening as he realized that he had left Sorey back on the Van Eltia, that Sorey saw him fall into the darkened sea. His hand was covering his mouth, the water he had just drank threatening to go back up. He must have caused so much pain to Sorey.

"Calm down," Rose pushed him back, "You exhausted yourself back there, and I already told Mayvin what happened." She handed him back the canteen, making sure he drank slowly this time.

"I'm impressed by your toughness." Mayvin praised him, nodding as he thought, "Must have been a literal feat pulling yourself and Rose away from the sea."

"I…don't remember much." Mikleo could feel his cheeks heat up.

Rose punched his shoulder playfully, "You did save me. Looks like we are even now."

Looking at Rose, Mikleo blinked. Not because his vision needed to be cleared again but because he could tell there was something different with Rose. It may be due to his own stress or to Mayvin’s presence but it seemed Rose was somewhat…lighter? He couldn't really put a word on it but it was like falling into the sea with him and nearly escaping death had Rose retrieve the general feeling about her Mikleo could feel when they first met… she hadn't felt this cheery since Dezel's sacrifice to be honest.

"We…Where are we?" He finally remembered to ask.

Mayvin exchanged a glance with Rose and they both smiled as she answered, "Well, you brought us close to our destination actually. The Van Eltia is docked at Fueno."

Rose seemed sure of herself but Mikleo had to admit he was a bit lost. When the Van Eltia collided with the ghost ship, they had been hours away from the nearest harbor. The whole weight of the fact he was the one to bring them here landed heavily on his back.

"Wow." Was all Mikleo could utter.

Pulling out his pipe, Mayvin balanced it between his lips while chuckling at Mikleo's speechlessness, "It's not that far away from here, I could lead you there." He chuckled harder, "You certainly are lucky, the creeks here are tricky! You could have ended up stuck in quick sand and be drowned before the end of the day without a guide."

Rose shook her head as Mikleo’s mind blanked, "You don't sell yourself short, old man."

Mayvin’s laugh reverberated loudly against the cluster of rocks sheltering them.

Sorey let his butt fall back on the bed, tired of pacing aimlessly like a caged animal. Fingers closing around the comforter’s fabric, he pulled on it, stopping himself only when a tearing sound reached his ears. He looked back at the rip, scratching at his nape as he reflected on what he would tell the in owner.

Well, he really couldn't help being so nervous. Aifread had ordered him away from the search party under the pretext that he was slowing them down. How was he slowing them down looking for Rose and Mikleo? He granted them that Aifread's men were more experienced sailors, but he never tried to tell them how to row a boat. He just tried to row it himself to go faster.

In the end, even his own friends agreed with the Captain and they locked him away here and sedated him to make sure he would have some rest. He woke up to an empty room and a feeling of betrayal.

Sorey had tried everything short of breaking property, to pounding on the door to screaming but when Alihsa’s tiny voice from the other side had asked him to stop because he was bothering other customers he had found himself unable to protest anymore. They had talked a bit, and Sorey’s feeling of betrayal was reduced to nothing when he understood that his friends were as worried as he was. There was nothing else they could do to help but wait. Wait for Aifread’s crew to bring them news.

Alisha sounded so tired that Sorey felt guilty for having been forced to rest. After a while, there was nothing left to say between them but Sorey knew she was still there leaning against the door, he could hear her steady breath as she finally fell asleep. This happened hours ago and it ended when he heard her quiet footstep go back downstairs.

Now Sorey had nothing left to pass time. Moving his hands away from the comforter, Sorey’s eyes bore holes into the door knowing that Alisha won't be back for a while. She would eventually come back to check on him but, finding out that he didn't want her to left an acrid taste in the back of his mouth.

He wanted to be left alone for a while. Alone he could concentrate on the tiny silver of a pulling he had felt tug at his heart. Alone he could stare into the distance and concentrate on his power to see the invisibles threads. Myriads of tiny links of many colors and shapes connecting everything and everyone that Sorey couldn't determine.

One was connected to his heart though, red and glowing bright, Sorey struggled to see it, beads of sweats rolling down his nape. He knew. He knew like he knew how to breath that that tiny thread, fading starting from his heart and fading into the distance would be dull and lifeless had Mikleo breathed his last.

So Sorey waited. He closed his eyes, concentrating so hard was starting to make his head pound. He waited, a sigh leaving his lips as he pulled out the Celestial Record. He stroked the spine, contemplating on which part to reread, and then biting his lips before letting out a sigh he put the book on the bed next to him, unable to think.

He felt that tiny pull again the moment his hand left the book behind, something so minuscule it could have been his imagination. Hand hovering, Sorey hesitated before covering his heart with it, concentrating on the feeling again. The tiniest tug brought a smile back to his lips, the feeling was nice, a gentle warmth spreading fast into his limbs.

When the door handle rattled, Sorey was on his legs the next second, attention fully turned toward the offending piece of furniture as he waited for it to open.

It took another full second before his brain could register what his eyes were showing him, the door closing back behind a slightly out of breath Seraph, rumpled and disheveled but otherwise looking unharmed. Violet eyes shining with a whirlwind of emotion, Mikleo's mouth opened.

"Sorey." He simply said, the two syllables falling from his lips in a breath.

It was the best sound Sorey ever heard. Before he could hold himself back, his arms had found their place around Mikleo’s waist and he was hoisting him up, Mikleo's protest dying as he laughed, twirling them one time before allowing Mikleo's feet to touch the ground again.

"You are alright! Mikleo, you are back!" Sorey exclaimed, laughing as he held Mikleo tight against him.

Mikleo restrained himself. Sorey could feel his shoulders shake as he tried to stifle his laughter. All it took was a fluttering kiss, a barely there touch against Mikleo's jaw for him to let himself go, a laugh full of relief and release moving his body. It died down too fast. Nevertheless, Sorey was glad he was granted the honor to hear it. He allowed Mikleo to pull out of his embrace a little, their chests still an inch apart.

"Sorry I made you worry." Mikleo said, nuzzling his nose against Sorey's.

Unable to stop himself from smiling, Sorey felt a warm wetness roll down his cheek, he inhaled, breathing in Mikleo’s scent. It was a bit salty and a bit sweaty but Sorey wanted to lose himself in that scent.

"Are you crying?"

Mikleo’s nuzzle stopped as he pulled back to look at Sorey's face. The movement was not to Sorey’s taste and he immediately pulled Mikleo back against him minding his circlet as he brought their foreheads together, "I'm crying from happiness. It's stupid. I knew you’d make it but still… I'm so happy you are back." Sorey tensed remembering something, "And Rose. Is Rose okay too?"

Mikleo kissed his nose, "You idiot. She's fine, Alisha went to her first." He knew he had a silly smile. He just couldn't care less at the moment.

Reassured, Sorey allowed himself to lean back against Mikleo basking in his presence. Soft lashes tickled Sorey’s cheeks, their proximity making it hard to see each other but neither of them wanted to part right now. They were comfortable, their eyes closing and their breath syncing. Mikleo’s fingers brushed Sorey’s hairs as Sorey's thumbs rubbed circle against his hipbones.

Though he loathed breaking the silence, Sorey felt the urge to make Mikleo know about his feelings, "If this was payback for every time I made you worry like that, now I can tell it seriously sucks."

"Don't let your mouth run, you idiot."  Mikleo said, hearing the promise behind Sorey's words and thinking, don't make a promise you can't keep.

Their breath mingling, it took Mikleo the tiniest effort to put pressure on Sorey's lips, a soft kiss celebrating their reunion. Sorey smiled despite himself as he responded to the kiss, his arms wrapping around Mikleo and pulling him closer if it was possible.

The door barging open and hitting the wall interrupted their moment in the worst manner, both of them separating as they jumped in reaction. Edna stood by the door, foot still in midair where she kicked it open.  But the thing was, she was not alone, behind her and suspiciously crouching really close together were Zaveid, Lailah and more surprisingly Mayvin lingering on the back. The old traveler’s presence teased Sorey’s curiosity.

"Wer-Were you eavesdropping!?"

Mikleo went beet red, hand forming a fist like he wanted to hit something. Lailah and Zaveid exchanged a glance. At least they had the decency to look sheepish about their actions.

Zaveid shrugged one shoulder, brushing his hair back as he rose up, "We wanted to know if you'll take things to the next step."

Eyes widening, Mikleo started to sputter and made wild gestures with his hands, "We won't take things to the next step! And it’s none of your business!"

"We won't?"

Mikleo turned sharply back to Sorey, violet eyes wide and cheeks flaming red, he opened his mouth and then closed it twice. Before taking his hair between his fingers.

"I…huh didn't really think about that," he mumbled to Sorey.

Feeling a little nervous too, Sorey felt his cheeks heat up, he scratched them with his forefinger trying to ease the tingling sensation, "Me neither…but I won't mind. I'm starting to think about how it would be with you… how I would please you."

There were butterflies in his stomach and it was like his tongue was cotton. He couldn't look directly at Mikleo. They were leaning toward each other again, unaware of Zaveid’s baffled expression and Lailah awing before Alisha's voice sounded, cutting through their reverie.

"Edna, you can't forget there are other customers here," attracted by the commotion Edna and Mikleo caused, Alisha appeared dragging a dumbfounded Rose behind her. She quickly took in the scene, shaking her head in disapproval. "I though you said you let them alone for a while."

If Edna had heard Alisha, she didn't listen to her and instead pointed her umbrella at Sorey and Mikleo "Something came up, you all can be disgustingly sweet with each other later. Now there are more pressing matters. My brother is here, which mean Miss Cranky Pants must be with him."

There was such finality in Edna’s voice that it killed the butterflies in Sorey’s stomach, replacing them with a weight as he looked at her. Her jaw was set, eyes stern as she looked back at Sorey. The others entered the room, readying for a dreaded conversation. He just had gotten Mikleo back, planning for their next course of action was the last thing Sorey wanted to do. Yet, he had to admit that a Dragon near a populated area was a more urgent matter.

Mayvin closed the door behind them, assuring a bit of privacy. Then as Edna turned to him, he understood it was time to talk.

"I heard from the locals that a Dragon appeared six month ago. He apparently nested in a smaller island. They call it the Prison Island because it's completely closed up an inaccessible when the tide is high." He explained attention on him. "Six months ago… that's when the prince was replaced." Alisha mused out loud.

Observing Edna's reaction, Sorey could tell it was not the first time she heard of this. Feeling his eyes on her she looked back, something she saw prompted her to share her part, "Eizen disappeared a little over eight months ago. I'm positive he is the Dragon they are talking about."

Mayvin nodded, "Well, the people here fear him. He attacks the ships randomly and sink them. He had gone away for a while and they thought they were finally free of it but a fisherman boat was smashed to piece yesterday, he affirms it was the same Dragon. "He asserted, "The mayor closed the access to Prison Island to prevent the inhabitants from endangering themselves. He used some sluice gate and trapped the water in to block the access."

Mayvin talked about the process like it was fascinating to him. It was indeed something Sorey had some interest in, he was curious to see the system the mayor had used. Maybe they could ask about it later.

"Did they talk about a woman? Had a haughty looking woman appeared in town recently?" Rose tried

"I didn't hear anything about that." Mayvin answered, sorry to see the disappointment flash on Rose's face.

His answer brought a thoughtful silence before Lailah stood, hands clasped before her, "Our best option is to go to that Prison Island," she turned toward Edna, lips down turning, "Even if it means facing, Eizen."

They had danced over the subject more than once, no one wanted to confront it but there was no avoiding it now. It seemed they were put against Edna's brother after all, with no other choice but to cross his road. Any other Dragon, Sorey knew they would have had to kill it. Feyrbrand’s infection was spreading and destroying the forest, who knew what Eizen’s malevolence must be doing to the area… who knew what he was enduring.

Edna’s eyes narrowed but she couldn't hold Lailah's, she looked back at her feet balancing her closed umbrella. "We don't touch him." she said.

A deep sigh left Zaveid’s lips, and Sorey saw him reach back behind him like he needed to hold onto something, "You know what will happen once we free him from Forton's influence, and you know she will use him against us."

"What then? Are you waiting for my approval to kill my brother?" She hissed at him.

"Maybe we'll find another solution." Sorey said before he could prevent himself.

The words just left his mouth but seeing Edna turn toward him, hurt and controlled anger making her movements jerky, seeing the lingering spark of hope in her blue eyes, Sorey knew he meant every word he pronounced. He would do anything in his power to make it happen.

"How so? Any idea?" There was acid in Edna's tone, making Sorey wince.

He held his chin between his fingers thinking hard, "From what I know, she must be a Hellion to have control of her Dragoon Spirit."

That was a conclusion Sorey made with all the parts of the puzzle they had gathered until now. Without a shepherd to channel mana, a Seraph can't use a Dragoon Spirit, yet hellionized Lafarga could. The only Dragoon Spirit ever known to choose humans as shepherd were the silver white and the black spirit, two sides of a coin, yet Maltran, a hellion could use the violet. It was instinct telling Sorey that Forton must be like the others, a hellion hiding her malevolence.

"That's what I thought so too." Mikleo added.

"I don't see were this is leading us." Edna urged Sorey to explain his point of view.

Startled out of his thinking, Sorey bit is lips as some idea that even he found stupid formed in his head, "I might be able to purify her, she will lose her hold on the Dragoon Spirit and it would free Eizen. Then…"

"And we have a wild Dragon to take care of." Zaveid interjected, getting impatient, "Listen Edna. I…You know that’s something I don't want to do but…That's not the Eizen we knew. He will attack people! There is a whole town here! He might destroy Fueno."

"I will take care of him! I'll bring him back home! I-"

"Edna!" Lailah raised her voice, her heal hitting the floor loudly as she stepped right in front of Edna effectively silencing her burst of anger. Lailah breathed a sigh, her shoulders slumping, "We don't know what'll happen if we don't try." Then she smiled, Sorey seeing it didn't reach her eyes, "We can only promise to do everything we can."

Edna’s hands tightened around the handle of her umbrella, the leather of her glove creaking in the silent room. It was so quiet that Sorey could hear the sound of his own heart beat pounding in his ears.

Lailah’s words were true. It wasn't easy for any of them, even if they had never met Eizen personally. Knowing that he was once a loving brother was enough to make Sorey regret having to fight him. Unconsciously, his eyes turned toward Mikleo. He refused to think about what would happen if it was him instead of Eizen. His imagination stopped to work the moment he associated the word Dragon with Mikleo. He would never let malevolence or anything hurt Mikleo like that.

Sharply, Edna turned back to Mayvin, "Old man, can you bring us to Prison Island?"

Her decision was made.

Chapter Text

After Mayvin had convinced the mayor that they weren't a group of suicidal nutcases and that they were actually here to help him about the Dragon terrorizing the townspeople, the man had reluctantly agreed to open the sea channel barring the Prison Island entrance. The easier part was to plan which way they would take. Mayvin, possessing detailed maps of the area surrounding the island helping a great deal with that. The hardest part was to find a boat. The Van Eltia was too large to fit between the networks of sea caverns that gave access to the island, and many of the fishermen around town were fervent in their refusal to approach the Prison Island.

Although Sorey was more reluctant to involve someone else that had been close to Eizen, they had no choice left but to ask Van Aifread for more of his help. Of course, the man agreed to lend them a small boat on the condition that he would be allowed to come with them. It was dangerous, exposing him to malevolence but Sorey, moved by the man’s determination had proved unable to refuse him and Mikleo couldn't blame him for that.

There was more to it, Mikleo couldn't help but to suspect Aifread knew who the Dragon was too. He thought it was just a gut feeling, but the way the man’s eyes kept drifting to the sky before turning to Edna reinforced the feeling.

He had asked Zaveid to make sure Aifread wouldn't interfere just in case. For an answer he got a shrug and a pat in the back before Zaveid had gone back to do whatever Zaveid was doing.

There were also Edna's feelings to consider. Mikleo had to admit he was a bit worried about her. Since she had agreed to let them go after Eizen she seemed uncharacteristically calm and subdued. It was so contradictory to the Edna Mikleo had grown to know that he found himself watching her more than he used too.

However, he hadn't expected relief to come from the way she gave Aifread a detailed commentary about what she thought of his sailing and his way of talking and his beard which Aifread withstood with his mouth hanging open more with every word out of Edna's mouth visibly trying to determine whether he was being insulted or complimented.

But then as Edna's speech gave way to stunned silence the pirate burst out laughing, hand landing on top on Edna’s head as obvious as he was that her glare was a direct death warrant to his limb. He told her that Eizen should have told them how cute she really was.

The glower she sent at Aifread had Mikleo hiss in sympathy for him for he ignored that he had doomed himself to be on Edna’s bad side for the rest of the trip. He could only hope Aifread’s skin was though enough.

If Sorey had been aware of Mikleo's concern about involving Aifread, he was good at pretending otherwise because despite his earlier reluctance Sorey seemed to be glad he came because Aifread was expertly conducting the small sailboat through the labyrinthine cavern, lifting the mood by singing sea shanties and sharing stories. Between him and Mayvin there sure was a lot of animation.

Mikleo distanced himself from them after more than once finding himself outraged by some of the lyrics. He was getting tired of restraining the urge to plug Sorey's ears with his hands.

The gentle tides had started to become agitated as they neared the cave entrance. The abrupt water withdrawal in the enclosed space after the sluice gates had been opened had left the water disturbed with the threat of whirlpools forming as the waves slapped against the caves wall. Aifread had grown serious again, concentrating on stirring the boat right as Mayvin gave him direction.

The cave walls, dark grey and tortuous were glistening with wetness, dripping saltwater and giving clear evidence of just how much the water had been filling the cavern until they opened the dam. The air was stuffed with a strong smell of sea salt.

Sorey had gotten a bit pale faced then, leaving Aifread's side to come closer to him seeking Mikleo's company. Mikleo concerned that he was starting to feel nauseous again with the rocking motion didn't even think of teasing him this time.

Sorey was clutching the wooden side of the boat as Mikleo instructed him to take deep breaths and offered some biscuit to nibble on. It was obvious on Sorey's face that he wanted to deny being sea sick but then a glare from Mikleo had him doing as he was instructed.

Mostly, the trip was quiet after that. Mikleo’s body remained tense, like he was expecting something but didn't know why. Some kind of trap that Forton would have set maybe? But there was nothing of the sort, only an undersea cavern and his growing sense of anticipation.

His eyes searched for Edna again. Though his worry had lessened when she managed to make Aifread blush and sputter not once but twice with her teasing, she couldn't be ignoring the fact that they were getting closer to her brother.

 It was obvious that everyone worried about her. With the way Lailah lingered close to Edna, offering her presence while giving her space or even Rose encouraging her teasing Aifread, with Alisha laughing behind her hand. Everyone seemed to take turn in taking care of her without being prompted or even discussing about it beforehand. It made heat pool into Mikleo’s limbs to know that they would do that for any member of their groups.

Mikleo, standing beside Sorey watched quietly as Rose asked her a question. The face Edna made reminded him about how Sorey had talked without thinking again, making her a promise that they were in no way assured to be able to keep. As of now they only knew one way to free a Dragon from his misery and Mikleo had thought Sorey was aware of it by now.

But the truth was that Sorey was aware of that, he just wouldn't accept it as the only truth. Mikleo felt the heat gather in his stomach at the thought because it was so much like Sorey, but something heavy and cold replaced it and there was no way to stop it.

There was a collective sense of awe when they exited a narrow tunnel to a room large enough to actually fit the Van Eltia. The sea was gentler here, a fresh breezy wind filtering in through the holes in the roof and walls. Sun filtered through the largest holes in the cavern roof, sending ripples and shivering reflections scintillating like stars all around them. Sorey's words of appreciation echoed, sounding loud and clear. It made the others chuckle, his enthusiasm contaminating them.

The sea was speared by the rays of sun descending from the sky, coloring the crystal clear water turquoise and making the water surface shinny and transparent, light reflecting from underneath them.  Leaning down, Mikleo was awed of how far under he could see, the way lit by the sun. He saw gleaming fishes and colorful corals lining the bottom, many different species of seaweeds fluttering gently. He was longing to touch them, fingers itching to close around that starfish that seemed so close and so beautiful. He wanted to put it in Sorey's palm and watch his expression as they both discovered the feel of it. Though he had yet to learn how to swim, he felt like being pulled, the want, the need to surround his body in the water that he recoiled from it.

A warm hand closed around his and Mikleo remembered how to breathe, lifting his eyes from the memory of blue he met green but was more than ready to let himself drown in that color.

 A roar came crashing against the cavern walls, making them tremble as the boat rocked with the resulting tide. Mikleo felt a pang of guilt for having momentarily forgot about their mission. Seriousness was placated on every face present, telling him that his companions were dreading the encounter as much as he was. Mikleo sought Sorey's gaze again finding him looking toward the roar’s general direction with a deep frown. Alisha was telling something to Edna making her flinch before she rose from her sitting position to go stand at the boat’s prow.

Mikleo knew she would be silent again.

"We are getting close." Aifread’s voice broke through the silence.

Mikleo swallowed. The surrounding mana in the water was making his whole body tremble and he closed his fist trying to alleviate the sensation. It was no use, Mikleo's Dragoon's spirit was attracting more mana and he was feeling himself brimming with powers wanting to be released. The anticipation of battle had him standing on edge. His spirit was more than ready for him to adorn his armor. It was reassuring somehow that he was ready to defend himself but also terrifying. Such power was not meant to fall between wrong hands, they had to take the Golden Dragoon spirit from Forton, and they had to free Eizen from her clutches.

He didn't register that the boat had started moving again, rowed by Zaveid and Rose as Aifread held the tiller and he almost lost his footing when Sorey's arms surrounded his waist from behind chin landing on his shoulder. Mikleo was hesitant to let himself melt against him.

"You are overthinking again."

Mikleo closed his eyes, breathing the salty air through his nose, trying to avoid Sorey’s eyes as he let go of him, he met Lailah’s glance and she moved closer to them. Mikleo knew there was no way he would escape this conversation now. He pursed his lips, then sighed letting it out.

"Are we doing the right thing?" he asked, honest, gaze shifting between Lailah and Sorey.

Sorey’s teeth came to gnaw at his lips, his brow frowning again as he took a thoughtful expression, considering Mikleo's words. He looked like he was thinking deeply about this answer,

 "I just… I can't really tell. I like to think I'm doing something right but at the same time I can see it's not like that for everyone."

Mikleo frowned, not really seeing the picture Sorey wanted him to see with his words.

"I see what you mean." Lailah nodded at Sorey," Here let me help you put an image on it." She added, pulling out a card from the fold of her clothes.

Mikleo frowned, his mind churning again as he tried to understand what Sorey had meant. He faced Lailah, hopeful that she could explain better than Sorey did. Sorey followed his glance and watched as Lailah held a white card before her.

"See on this side, the card is white." She said, and then she turned the card around, "and on the other side, it’s black."

This was a clear enough metaphor, of black and white, Mikleo nodded, prompting her to continue. Sorey seemed pleased.

"But then if you move the card a certain way and cast shadows on the white side…" she trailed, obviously wanting for them to finish and make the connection.

"It's grey." Sorey answered.

"That's right," Lailah piped up, "but then, it works on the black side too. Look, if I put under the right light." She put the card under a ray of sun, the face looking more grey than black.

"So basically, everything black and white can become gray." Mikleo mused, bringing a hand to his chin while thinking about it.

It made much sense explained like that, it seemed so simple, yet Mikleo searched Sorey’s face. Was it what Sorey had tried to tell him, that he didn't see the world as just black and white anymore?

"That looks more like Rose’s way of thinking." Mikleo mused, not realizing he had said it out loud at first.

"I'm glad you are talking about it," Lailah’s voice became softer, "Wondering about the ways of the world is a sign of growth. It is a thing I would like for you both to find out for yourselves." Hands joined before her face, she blinked away some moistness in her eyes, "You both grew so much since I met you."

Mikleo tilted his head and pursed his lips again. He was not so sure about having grown, but he was certain he wasn't the same Seraph that left Elysia to see the world and rescue his idiot from Soldiers. So much had happened, and there was more yet to come.

Sorey looked a bit embarrassed at Lailah’s attention, rubbing his nape and avoiding looking at her. Mikleo met his gaze again, witnessing as the gears in Sorey's brain shifted and his eyes glinted when he finally found the words to express his feelings about Mikleo's earlier question.

"The more we travel, the more I see Rose’s point." He was serious, arms crossing over his chest, "I can't ignore that the things we do have impacts that we can't imagine. Killing Maltran in Serdio ended the war with an imbalance in power that could do wrong to people, but ending the war saved many lives." He shook his head, "Even so, I want to believe we did the right things in the end. I want to believe there is goodness in people, enough to make a difference. Plus I you know I can't really stay idle and watch innocent people suffer when others are spreading chaos. "He gave Mikleo a smile which Mikleo couldn't help but to return.

"Optimistic to a fault." Mikleo chuckled, now he understand and more than ever found his will to follow Sorey to the end of the world, "The white silver Dragoon's spirit seems to have weird taste in choosing its bearer."

Sorey struck his shoulder playfully, then looked serious again, "In the end, I believe it's listening to what our heart tells us is the right thing that is important."

It made Mikleo’s belly flutter with the urge to kiss Sorey, to feel him pressed against him, sharing his feelings and his heat. Pushing the need away instead brought back memories about their conversation in the inn bedroom and Mikleo flushed. He turned away in embarrassment, looking at the tunnel entrance the boat was navigating toward. Now was not an appropriate time to let his desire make itself known.

"Let my heart guide me." He quietly repeated, it sounded about right.

He had a feeling he can do that.

Eventually, after some more navigating through the cavern, the roof opened to the sky. The sailboat was now navigating through a large canyon with dark wall made raw and sharps by millennia of saltwater and tempestuous winds. Some walls were high enough to shield them completely from the sun while others looked so warped that they could tear the sail apart with nothing more than a brush against their side.

 The seawater was becoming shallower, making the sailboat’s progress difficult and they eventually had to stop when the waters became too shallow, the rocky bottom replaced by round and polished shingles. There was a portion of flat land before them now, reminding Mikleo of the Volcano Villude path, sterile and dark because of ancient volcanic activity. There was no trace of such recent activity here, though the landscape remained definitively scarred and shaped by flows after flows of lava stopped by the sea.

Now Mikleo understood why the Prison Island was given such name. As they got closer to the Island he could see that it seemed the canyon parted on the shingle beach, surrounding the island with high and sharp walls, making it almost impenetrable from the outside but also impossible to escape from the inside, enclosing the land within its wall.

Mikleo’s theory was that this Island could be the ancient crater of an undersea volcano that had risen above water.

The heaviness of malevolence became palpable around them and there were no more doubts that the Dragon was hiding here. That Aifread was displeased was an understatement because it took Sorey, Mayvin and Rose’s combined effort to convince him to stay with the boat. Mayvin staying with him as they were both without the protection of Dragoon spirits. In the end as he watched them, knee deep into the water walking toward the beach he told Edna to tell Eizen he said hi.

She had glared at him, but then Mikleo saw the ghost of a smile as she told Aifread she wasn't her parrot.

The round shingles clinked against each other noisily as Mikleo finally stepped on dry land, he hadn't bothered to lift his pants and was already absentmindedly using his powers to dry is clothes when he felt eyes on him. Zaveid and Rose, looking uncomfortable in their dripping wet and too tight pants, were both looking him, watching his every movement as his hands gracefully moved to guide the water out of his cloth and back into the sea.

 Edna was also looking at him from behind Sorey's shoulder where she stood completely dry as he gently helped her down from his back. She had hopped on him the moment he put his foot in the water saying she needed his help not getting anywhere near that stinky water. Sorey had grimaced, adjusting her on his back and Mikleo concluded that Edna may be heavier than she looked. Sorey had opened his mouth but closed it. A wise choice to just bear with her considering she nearly brought Aifread to tear twice back on the boat.

 Alisha was bare foot holding her boots and high socks in hand while her gaze shifting between Mikleo and the others. Confused by the silent fighting that was happening.

She couldn't understand their staring contest, Mikleo knowing too well that Zaveid could dry himself. He just wanted Mikleo to do it for him and there was no way he would do that.

Lailah let out a loud sigh, standing between them as she used her flames to help Rose dry and feel more comfortable, leaving Zaveid waiting for something that would never come.

She barely had finished when Rose moved sharply. Looking back further between the pointed rocks littering the beach she held a hand up, effectively making everyone silent.

Listening carefully, Mikleo heard what made her alert. It was faint echoes of voices carried by the wind and ricocheting against the walls and stones. He saw Edna scowl behind him, almost expecting her to start growling. There was the unmistakable soprano tone of a woman’s voice.

They moved as one, following the voices until they could hear the conversation better. They hid behind the stone’s shadows, looking at each other when the voices became clear.

"I didn't kill them like you wanted, though I still don't understand why you'll order that."

 The woman’s displeasure was almost tangible, as if she was forcing herself to talk with an unpleasant person. Mikleo's heart gave a loud thump that resonated in his ribcage. The voice was unmistakably Forton's. They had reached the point of no return. Under Rose's instruction they stopped to hide as best as they could behind the raised rocks and away from the road, listening in.

Few seconds went by with the only sound being the wind and Mikleo’s heartbeat before another voice rose.

"Tch, The master’s orders, not mine. I would have gotten rid of those pests myself if it weren't for that. He doesn't want the whole continent to burn with war just yet. Spreading the Princes' blood would have attracted unwanted attention."

The voice was that of a man, his words followed by a humorless laugh. Rose's hand was already on her knife, her body moving before she could hold herself back. Zaveid and Alisha's combined intervention stopped her movements before she gave their position away and all the chances they had to lean about Forton's true motives. Still Rose was furious, fuming, her jaw unclenching only as Alisha caressed the hand tightly gripper around her knife.

It was Lunarre’s voice, teasing and grating on Mikleo's ears, Dezel's killer and potentially Gramps' kidnaper at a reachable distance. Mikleo’s fingers twitched as he himself fought with the need to hit that fox faced monster with his staff. He knew there was no way he could fully understand Rose's feelings, but he was imagining just how much restrain she must be exercising on herself. He watched her again, her chest rising and falling with her heavy breathing. Soon, nothing Alisha could do or say would be enough to hold her from snapping.

Rose was a string pulled tight, about to break, the dam holding her feelings just too full when the man responsible for everything she had ever endured stood close to her knife point. And she had to stay put, because this wasn't about her, about her revenge. She held herself, Mikleo feeling like Dezel would be proud of her for that.

"Well, if that the master wants so I will obey. However, I have my doubts about unwanted attention because it seems like they were asking questions all around about you, they are on your tracks."

Lunarre's snicker sent shivers down Mikleo's spine, "It’s a fun game. Maybe playing with them a bit will help you understand too. That if they came out of their poor hideout. "

They had been foolish to think they hadn't been noticed. They probably had been the moment they had set foot on the shingle beach. It was no use to try and restrain Rose anymore so Zaveid let her go. She stood, the blade of her knife gleaming as she twirled it, her joints white as her grip tightened on the handle.

Mikleo followed instinctively, taking in the sight of Lunarre sitting nonchalantly atop a rock, a large smile splitting his pale face in two while Forton stood near him, scowling like she just swallowed a lemon. There was no sight of Eizen though and Mikleo didn't know if it was a good thing or not.

"You sure like interrupting private conversation, don't you?" Forton said, putting a hand on her hip.

"Lunarre! It's time for you to face your crimes!" Rose spat ignoring the other woman’s gibe.

Forton rolled her eyes, looking at Rose with disgust and scorn as Lunarre put his hand open palmed on his chest, obviously faking an expression of hurt.

"My crimes? You wound me. My actions are the will of Emperor Diaz, nothing was my fault." He stood on the rock, making a show of faking his hurt.

Rose bristled, her head tilted as her shoulders shook expression shadowed by her bangs "You dare-"

Mikleo didn't know where to look at, mana already rising in him he was ready to strike at the first sign of aggression. Yet, he was hesitant to look at Lunarre, memories of his inability to do anything, his fear and paralysis the first time they met as the Hellion had threatened Sorey assaulted him. Mikleo had to close his eyes to better remember that he had gotten stronger since then, that he was ready now. He concentrated on Sorey's presence beside him and felt all the others, he wasn't alone.

Rose wasn't either. They had their friends. He just wished he was able to make her see that.

"Calm down Rose, it's no use talking to him." Alisha tried.

"He killed Dezel!" Rose screamed, and Mikleo knew she would be blind to anything they could try.

The corners of Lunarre’s lips turned down as he leaped to descend from his rock. It was an obvious taunt, coming closer yet still out of reach. Rose would have had to run and pass Forton to have a chance to touch him.  He tilted his head, his yellow eyes narrowing when Rose, showing amazing restrain again failed to take his bait.

Then he smiled again, his face split in two has his fangs showed, "I have the calling to reform the world. I have no time to pay attention to little things, like Dezel."

Lailah’s hand covered her mouth as Rose’s scream tore through her throat, "Lunarre!"

This time she took the bait without care. She lunged after him, legs carrying her fast and powerfully through the remaining distance. Mikleo watched, helpless as against all odds Forton stepped aside and chuckled as Rose ignored her focusing all her attention on Lunarre.

But Rose slashed empty air, her frustrated cries of anger mingling with Lunarre’s demented chuckles. He had jumped back on the rock, standing a lot higher than she could reach.

"Be careful, Rose."

Zaveid was the first to follow behind her. He was the only one who truly fought the ex-scattered bones member, knowing what to expect from him and his warning was filling Mikleo with dread. Rose was acting recklessly, her movements unusually incoherent and lacking finesses. She was obviously letting her feelings act on her battle instincts and it was putting her in great danger.

It was done in an instant, the moment Lunarre made an inhuman jump back on the canyon wall and left a breathless and hopeless Rose behind.

Lunarre wasn't smiling anymore; he crouched, looking down on her, "I am the one who betrayed your pitiful clan. I'm the one who ended your friend’s life. And now I'm the one who holds both the Moon Gem and the Moon Dagger in my hands!"

Lunarre titled his head, standing so high up that his rust colored hairs were swaying in the wind. He laughed a tortured and raucous sound looking like he was savoring the distressed expression Rose had when she gave a quick glance to Forton before focusing back on Lunarre.

Of course Forton would have given the Moon Dagger to him. They had been involved together with that seraph Symonne since the beginning. They worked together for that pretended Emperors Diaz. Mikleo swallowed because even though he understood that they had sided together, he didn't know their true motive, the thought stirring unrest within him. They were both Hellions, that he could tell. If he had learned things with his love of history, it was that Hellions siding together was a bad omen.

"You abhor me, don't you?" Lunarre concluded, apparently pleased with himself.

From the way Sorey's fist tightened against his side, his jaw clenching and body tensing, Mikleo thought Rose’s anger at Lunarre’s taunt was spreading between them like a cloudy fog taking rational thoughts away. Instinctively he inched closer to Sorey, offering silent comfort as they both observed the exchange between the two.

Mikleo failed to grasp how she could be feeling. Lunarre had been part of her clan and Mikleo knew what it meant for her, this man must have been like a brother to her and here he was relishing at the idea that she hated him. He couldn't even fathom what it would feel for him to have any of the Elysians turn on him. Part of him just knew how devastating it would be.

But Rose stopped moving, her body relaxing, shoulders shaking just slightly, her eyes tilted down looking at the ground, but she was not looking at Lunarre. She couldn't. Her bangs hid her face but they all could feel, rippling from her body in waves, that hatred and anger she was trying to contain, trying so hard not to respond to the taunt.

Seeing her reaction, Lunarre’s face fell, lips pulling down in a frown. All of sudden he was another man, nothing like they had ever seen coming from him, almost frail in the way he let his shoulders sag. Mikleo must have imagined the hint of sadness he saw in those beast’s eyes then, but he couldn't shake the feeling that it was there.

"Hatred… it really is the most powerful bond." Lunarre said, low and devoid of emotions.

Before Mikleo could start processing what he just witnessed a deafening roar rang in the small enclosed island. Hands covering his ears at the assault, he let out a whimper as Eizen perched on the rocks above them. Dirt and black stones fell, from where the dragon dug his claws, crashing and clattering on the ground loudly enough to cover Edna's desperate call of Eizen's name.

Forton snapped her fingers and the Dragon, like a dog earing a whistle settled down and stopped moving, growling as he lowered his head.

"Eizen!"

Edna screamed again, moving to chase after her brother. She was the only one daring to move, weaving herself through the protruding spiked and cutting rocks of the wall. Forton watched her like someone would watch a cockroach crawl on the ground as it died, disgusted and fascinated all at once.

Eizen loomed over them, seeming even more enormous than Mikleo thought, one single paw could crush any of them, and a whip of his powerful tail could cut through the rocky wall. He was sniffing through his snout, yellow eyes clouded like he was unaware of the scene happening below him. Mikleo breathed a shaky sigh, malevolence touching him even through his Dragoon's spirit protection. The Dragon sat there, wings open against the winds, dark scales made shinny by the sun and water, waiting silently for an order. There was no recognition in his body language, not even when Edna called him again.

Mikleo squeezed his eyes shut, feeling a pang of pain strike his heart and pull it in his stomach because Zaveid was right… this was not Eizen anymore.

However Edna wouldn't listen to any of them, deaf to their warnings as she ran closer to her brother, not measuring the danger of the situation. She could only see her brother hovering over her, watching her with split pupils with something akin to hunger shining inside them. Eizen could strike at her at any given order from Forton.

The earth below Edna’s feet started to shine as she concentrated an arte probably with the intention of propelling herself closer as she couldn't climb the steep rock toward Eizen. Mikleo saw Forton frown and Mikleo understood her move too late and only Zaveid was close enough, snatching Edna away before an earth glaive arte speared through her.

Everyone was back into fighting stance the next second turning toward Forton who shrugged.

"I guess I'm allowed to play after all."

She moved slowly and gracefully, detaching two fans from each side of her hips and opening them. The fans were a simple white, bearing the crest of  the seraphic church in gold embroidery, yet shinning blades protruded from them, deadly weapons dissimulated. She was smiling as she held her weapons, yet her smile turned down as Edna’s protests and insults could still be heard. She turned back toward Edna, a disgusted grimace souring her beauty.

Edna was thrashing against Zaveid’s embrace where they had landed on the ground. She frantically tried to escape him as Zaveid tried to make her see reason and drag her to a safer place. She bit into his arm, making him yelp.

 "What a bother, don't let your children do as they please." Forton spit.

Edna stopped her struggle, her eyes looking right into Forton's. The silent exchange made Mikleo shiver. Slowly, Zaveid let Edna go and she stood, lifting her chin.

 "This is my brother. Not your slave. Give him back."

For an earth seraph, her voice was as cold as Mikleo's ice reaver spell. Forton lifted her chin in turn, looking at Edna from head to toe, appraising her. Nonchalantly, she flicked her braided over her back.

"It is? Well you'll excuse me but my pet," she emphasized the word pet, making Edna bristle, her fingers digging into the meat of her palm as her hands balled into tight fists," Has something else to do other than babysit you. Something more important, I presume than playing brother and sister with a… ah whatever you are." She made a dismissive gesture with her hand, like Edna was nothing but an eyesore.

"I was not finished, Forton." Lunarre’s voice stopped Edna from replying; he had until then observed the scene with a distant interest and chose the opportune moment to interrupt. He seemed almost bored.

Mikleo too could taste the imminence of a fight, but something in Lunarre’s stance told him that he had no will to fight against them. Rose must have felt it too because she sharply looked back at him holding his gaze as it seemed they both were only seeing nothing but each other.

Mikleo wanted to step in, he needed to ask Lunarre about Gramps…yet he couldn't, dreading the answer he just stood there watching as Lunarre showed only interest for Rose. He couldn't even look at Sorey, knowing that the same hesitance was plaguing him.

Lunarre's disturbing smile back on, he talked loud enough to be heard, "I'm heading to Mille Seseau. Pursue me if you can survive!"

Blinding light forced Mikleo to cover his eyes, Sorey’s groan beside him told him it was the same for everyone and when Mikleo blinked his eyes open, Lunarre was gone from his perch and Eizen was soaring high into the sky, leaving another rumble of rocks falling from the cliffs.

Rose’s frustrated scream that tore from her throat as she hit the pommel of her knives repetitively against the stone echoed through Mikleo, seeping into his bones and making bile rise. But he couldn't ignore the remaining treat that was Forton. More than Rose’s sorrow it was the woman turning into a golden Dragoon that was making Mikleo feel sick.

She was sporting the same wings of glass that all but Alisha and Edna were gifted with, light orange and yellow gold gleam changing with the light as she moved them, outlined in black metallic tones. Her armor was all gold and green gems, armored as she was, her riding pants turned into knee-high armored boots and a short plaited skirt covered her to her mid-thigh, her mid-rift was protected by a green softer looking fabric. Her bladed fans had turned into a whole weapon, covered in scales that shaped them more like chakram, and a v shaped gold headband kept her long more intricately braided hair away from her face.

She looked so pleased when she held her weapon in front of Sorey, "You are the one that defeated Maltran, are you?"

Sorey held her gaze, not giving her the privilege of an answer, Mikleo’s grip on his staff tightened and he was already calling on his Dragoon spirit, it will only take a breath to turn, yet he needed Sorey's signal, needed to know that Sorey was ready to confront yet another enemy. They both knew how the fight would likely end. Forton was just like Maltran.

Movement caught Mikleo’s attentions his head turning to see Alisha back away slightly intimidated by the woman's word and her Dragoon's form. Lailah was there to catch her, gentle touch and words helping Alisha regain her footing.

"She may have been better with a sword but her will was weak, I'll show you what it means to be in the master's way."

She threw her chakram and then Mikleo didn't wait for Sorey's signal anymore, his giant hammer was in her weapon way, just before it caught Sorey’s throat.

"Fight." Mikleo hissed between clenched teeth.

He understood Sorey’s hesitation, they had been over this situation many times but it was still hard on him, killing or being killed wasn't something Sorey could understand yet and Mikleo wished for all his heart that they wouldn't be put under such a situation again. It was a foolish dream considering that he knew just how they were pulled into something beyond their understanding, something that involved more battle and struggles.

Though now was not the ideal moment for Sorey to have second guesses. Rose wouldn't be able to defend herself, caught in her own world the scraped row of skin on her hands seemed more interesting than anything happening around her, and Alisha was torn between going toward her and standing before Forton, but ultimately, she was no Dragoon and couldn't follow when the Forton’s strong wings lifted meters away from the ground. Lailah’s fire spirit would be of no use against Forton's earth powers. She could only send an array of fire to stop her from getting closer to them, flames licked Forton's wings but she seemed unbothered by them.

In the fray, Mikleo was unable to find Zaveid and Edna’s location which only left him and Sorey to stop Forton.

Sorey was still hesitant when Mikleo left to chase her before she could make the mountain fall on them, reluctantly leaving Sorey’s side, the woman laughing all the while she made them zigzag through protruding rocks and pikes.

A fierce move of her arm and the wall closest to Mikleo formed a spike nicking him in the wing and making him falter, he couldn't avoid the rock hitting the side of his head. It was only Zaveid’s chain catching her arm that prevented her from making another strike through Mikleo's middle.

"Annoying pest."

"It pain me to fight such a pretty lady. But I won't old back if you hurt my friends"

They engaged, Forton's chakram against Zaveid’s chains. White spots started to dot Mikleo's vision and he would never be happier at Zaveid’s intervention. He breathed hard, his armor protected him but he could still feel the sticky warmth of blood running against his temple. It felt natural to call on water and heal himself. Regaining focus, he saw Forton’s lithe body twist and turn, using the relief to her advantage she propelled herself to pass Zaveid’s guard his wings bending to try and take him out of the way without success as her heeled boots landing against his cheek.

Zaveid recoiled from the blow, back hitting the wall. The hammer between Mikleo’s hand was starting to feel heavy, meaning that his time was almost near, his mana depleting faster than anticipated.

"Why?" Sorey’s voice echoed, seeming loud between the battle cries and taunts exchanged.

Forton’s attention went away from the two men fighting her, eyes boring through the wall that separated her from Sorey. They had lost themselves between networks of high rock and rocky ledges. She flew higher, above to better see him, and then came down, nearly on the same spot she was when she was with Lunarre. She hovered before Sorey, Lailah lifting her papers, ready to stop her at the first wrong move. Mikleo was right on her heel, putting himself between her and Sorey.

"Why what?" She asked, holding her chakram low.

Sorey’s gaze was very intense on her, Mikleo could feel the heat of it on his back and he threw a glance over his shoulder, looking back at Sorey through the glass and frost of his wings.

"You were a woman of the church. You dedicated your life to the people of Tiberoa and yet… you conspired to steal the Moon Dagger, making the people suffer through your scheme. You claim there was no hard feeling that it was only for you master." Sorey shook his head and Forton rolled her eyes, "I understand why you stole the Moon Dagger, why you resented Tiberoan's forgetting their faith in the seraphim. But I can't understand why you put so much effort in ruining the Prince’s reputation."

At first, Forton had seemed indifferent allowing Sorey to talk for she was certain she would end his life soon, yet when he let out that last interrogation, her mask slipped. Her eyes changed color then, the pupil splitting into a thin line, she snarled, her teeth elongating, sharpening.

"Why you ask?" she screamed, her voice high pitched and crazed, "He had all the people’s love and did nothing, they turned away from me to worship him and yet he stayed in his mighty castle not even seeing the suffering! The desert is progressing eating away Tiberoa's lands, Pirates are roaming the sea! Serdio are waiting in the shadow to crush us…seraphim abandoned us!"

The more she screamed against Sorey the more her skin turned grey, the wings of her armor slowly turned to dust like they were eaten away by decay and she landed back on the ground unable to hold herself up as she screeched in rage.

"I'll let them die, let them burn through flames to make them understand their mistakes and see their own flaw. "

Mikleo’s breath caught when he saw her legs fuse into a single tail trailing and twisting behind her, scales replacing skin. Forton lifted herself up using that tail holding her arms up as her braid moved and hissed, lifting on her head as if moved by a single mind, a multitude of snakes staring a barring teeth at Sorey and Mikleo.

Forton held up her arms "Tiberoan's need to be saved from themselves and only death could lead them to the light! I'll guide them to the light! Master promised… he promised…"

"Don't look into her eyes!"

Lailah warned, pulling on Sorey’s mantle and making him avoid Forton’s strange arte. Mikleo knew it was only his Dragoon form that protected him, as stone crept along his armor before crumbling into dust.

"Sorey. She is too far gone." Mikleo breathed.

Again, he was forced to make Sorey do something he despised, it wrung his heart to be the one to do that. Sorey nodded his acceptance, the striking light of him turning into a Dragoon answering to Mikleo’s desperation.

Forton watched them, as if entranced, only sobbing and wailing quietly as Malevolence ate the remainder of her sanity. But then, before Sorey could move, Forton cried. The cry died before her limp body hit the ground, a knife protruding from her chest. Her serpentine form was gone the next moment leaving behind a beautiful woman with a peaceful expression forever engraved on her face.

"May these weary bones find peaceful rest."

Rose was standing before the woman, missing one knife. Lifting her head, she smiled at Sorey as his and Mikleo's Dragoon form dissipated..

"You don't have to do that, remember?"

There was no way to know if Sorey was more grateful than Mikleo at the moment. Yet he was considerably relieved as Sorey breathed a sigh and rubbed his nape. Beyond the psychological pain, there was the heaviness of being left without mana, Mikleo was tired to say the least, and he squeezed his own arm to hide the quaking of his exhausted muscles. He could rest now and more than ever he was reminded that they weren't alone in this.

"Thank you for being there, Rose." Sorey answered.

A silence, light and comforting passed between them before a sniffing sound broke through it. Edna’s booted feet stopped near Forton, though she never spared a glance at the woman’s body. There was visible tear tracks on her cheeks, Edna not bothering herself trying to hide them she looked up,

"So, what now?" she deadpanned.

Alisha was the first to answer, "I guess we have to go back to Tiberoa and inform the king we lost the Dagger-"

"And then we go back after Lunarre." Rose interrupted, clutching at her knife.

Erupting from Forton's lifeless form, a bright light started to shine harder the closer Edna got to it. Fighting against that light, darkness seemed to engulf Forton until there was nothing left but a pile of cloth on the ground and atop them the gold stone of a Dragoon spirit. Mikleo knew that Edna was drawn to it as soon as her eyes landed on it, her face seemed soothed by the song only she could hear as she grabbed the stone.

It shone hard in her palm, a bright gold so like sunshine, strong as rock, lively as sand and so like Edna. She was a chosen one.

"Isn't this getting a bit repetitive?"

For a second, with the uninterested tone of her voice, Mikleo feared that she would just throw the spirit away. And to be honest, she would have, hadn't Lailah caught her hand before that.

Chapter Text

There was something that struck Alisha when they got back to Fletz, they may have gone only a few days, but she could tell just how much the general town’s atmosphere had changed. It was as bright and as sunny as the first time they had stepped in but it was just… different.

It was impossible to quite determine what had changed. Was it the smiles and chatters of the habitants that seemed more carefree? Was it the music bustling from the market place and echoing all around the city? The only thing Alisha could be certain of was that she liked the change.

Yet, even though all around them the people seemed at peace, she couldn't help but to feel nervous. She sighed, wringing her fingers as she walked a little behind the group. Sorey was impatient, leading Mikleo by the hand toward the marketplace where the music came from, it attracted lots of stares though most of them were accompanied with chuckles and comment about the youth’s liveliness.

Alisha had yet to figure out what she would tell the King about the failure of their mission. The others told her not to worry about it, that they would handle everything together but it was like she was back in Serdio, disappointing the Council and her brother King all over again. Like when she had to inform Chancellor Bartlow that the moon gem was taken away from her. She remembered it like it was yesterday, the man's eyes narrowing as he fell back in his chair and though he was never one in favor of Alisha safekeeping the Gem as per the late King’s last will he said nothing. He just stood there pondering her words. Then he began to tell her about the imperativeness of recovering the jewel.

She would have expected more anger, more resentment from someone that kept pushing her further away from power, from her brother, from someone that never batted an eyelash when the Council accepted Sandora's request to hand her over as a hostage.

It later occurred to her that Lunarre had to learn from someone’s mouth that she carried the moon gem within her body. As much as she despised suspecting someone as close to her brother she couldn't ignore his lack of reaction, like he knew somehow.

Her heart heavy, Alisha rose her head, seeking the group she chose to travel with reminding herself that she left all that behind her, possibly forever and that it was for the better. The lump in her throat eased when her eyes met Rose's, bluer than the sea they just left they reassured Alisha.

But then because her mind was traitorous she remembered the feeling that overcame her when she thought she would never see those eyes opening again. Fate gave it back to her this time, a relief so intense it was beyond anything Alisha ever felt before, but Alisha understood that things weren't as finite as she thought that she still has to be stronger in order to keep what she held dear.

Offering Rose a reassuring smile, Alisha reminisced the feeling of her lips pressed back against hers, feeling heat creep along her cheeks she knew she was blushing, not in embarrassment but in joy that her fear and relief pushing her to act on her feelings paid off. Rose had responded to her kiss and even though Alisha had yet to voice how she felt about Rose, she would do everything in her power for her to know she was loved.

The crowd grew denser as they neared the marketplace near the Castle’s back entrance. They had wanted to be discreet in their return, choosing the lesser frequented part of the town to inform the King but it seemed the town people had other ideas.

The music indeed came from the small place, someone playing the flute while two dancers gracefully shifted around each other under the watcher’s cheers and encouragement. It was beautiful, Alisha immediately picking the meaning of the dance being a representation of the sun and moon dance. In was even reflected in the dancer's appearance. One was lithe and pale skinned and dark haired wearing blue flowing silk made sparkly with shinning jewels and silver lining while the other was the entire opposite. Broader and dark skinned with wavy blond air that looked almost silver in the afternoon sun wearing golden silk. They danced as is they were one, radiating joy and mirth as they pulled the watchers in.

Sorey was already bouncing on the balls of his feet, holding Mikleo’s hand as the seraph adamantly refused to do anything but watch. Zaveid moved his head with the tune while Lailah clapped and although Edna seemed uninterested, her eyes never failed to follow the dancers' movements. Alisha’s eyes parted from the show for a second, just so she could glance at Rose beside her, inching closer as the crowd pushed them a little. There was something like calculations readable behind her eyes, Alisha not holding her chuckle as she continued to watch the dancer knowing Rose was appreciating it too.

 There was a drum and a violin added to the music when the movement reached its peak and Alisha found herself staring longingly at the instrument. It's been a while since she had played it, memories of the feeling of the wood grain and the smell of varnish assaulted her until she was abruptly pulled out of her reverie from a round of applause, the music ending as both dancers bowed to their audience.

"It's the Prince!" The first exclamation was shouted around the crowd.

"Prince Sergei is here!"

The word spread fast and the crowd parted to reveal a slightly blushing Sergei sided by two guards. The prince was rubbing his nape awkwardly as people fussed around him. Alisha’s eyes widened as she took in the sight of the Prince in his full silver armor, the red of his livery standing out even among the colorful garbs that Fletz favored.

He was standing proud, his back straight and his stance assertive. He kept smiling gently as the people that talked to him, meeting their eyes and acknowledging them though he looked a bit overwhelmed. Unconsciously, Alisha covered her mouth with her hands, absolutely astonished by the contrast between the last time Sergei visited the market place and now.

Rose huffed beside her, "And no one noticed there was an impostor in Sergei’s place for about half a year? Forton was really bad at impersonating him." She mumbled.

Alisha nodded, agreeing whole heartedly with her but too caught up by the sight Sergei was making to voice it. She failed to notice when Rose pursed her lips and narrowed her eyes at the Prince. The Prince’s rise of voice muffled Rose's snarky comment.

"Hah, I certainly didn't expect to find so many people here." When he looked back at the performer he looked impressed and a little hesitant to smile, reminding himself to act properly in front of his subjects. Alisha knew him enough to know he was trying to hide just how enchanted he truly was, "It was beautiful. I should thank you for the show."

The two dancers exchanged a meaningful gaze, then the dark haired one stepped up silk ruffled by the breeze as he bowed deep, "It was an honor my Prince. To be honest, we were doing a dance in honor to both you and your brother’s birthday. Therefore dancing in front of the gate his highness prefers to use to go on patrol around the town seemed more appropriate."

Sergei’s warm brown eyes seemed to moisten as he widened them, deeply moved by the performers’ gesture and unable to properly hide it. "It was my pleasure. I wish my brother was here to see this too."

Then the crowd echoed in a bustle of voices again, praising the dancers and Sergei in the same breath with the Prince trying hard to be proper.

"Your Highness." A familiar looking woman called while stepping closer to the Prince the crowd's background noise dimmed to allow her small voice to reach him.

Sergei turned to her, his smile growing awed and fond when his eyes fell on her very round belly. Aware of his attention, the woman blushed, stroking a hand over her baby bump.

"I have a favor to ask of you Prince Sergei." She said voice trembling.

"O-of course." Sergei answered, back straightening as he let his military training take over him.

The woman seemed about to cry sniffling as she gathered her words, people were encouraging her quietly, "May I ask you to name my soon to be born baby your highness? It would be such an honor and hold so much meaning to me."

Looking properly taken aback, Sergei cleared his throat, "It would be my pleasure, though… hah I'm not really sure about a knight naming a baby," he answered, the woman nearly bursting into tears at his words. Acting on impulse he took her hands between them, "I'll suggest strong names if you don't mind." He quickly added before the woman took his awkwardness as refusal, "What about Alisha for a girl and Arthur for a boy, those are really strong names."

The woman’s face cleared, delighted as she was, she thanked Sergei profusely while Alisha's face felt like it was burning. He had suggested her name. Sergei was… too much. After a few more minutes spent talking animatedly with people that mustered the courage to address him, Sergei turned toward his guards telling them to go on patrol without him because they would obviously go nowhere with him. The guards went their way as Sergei tuned back toward the long set of stairs reaching toward the Castle, the crowd accompanied him with well wishes and heartfelt goodbyes.

All the while, Alisha thought that the Prince had been too busy to have noticed their return but as he was about to step behind the gate and ascend the first step, Sergei turned toward the marketplace one last time, eyes finding Alisha's. He gave her a knowing look, mustering all the warmth and conveying how much he was glad they were back in a single glance, and then gave a farewell nod. Again Alisha felt herself blush, being the center of the Prince's attention wasn't something she was used to.

Rose suddenly grasped her arm, jostling her a bit as she moved them through the dispersing crowd, "Come on. We mustn't make his highness wait."

Alisha sent a confused glance at Rose, wondering why she had sounded displeased.

The giant guard waved at them happily as they entered after Sergei. The time it took for them to navigate through the small marketplace, the Prince had climbed back all the way to the Castle and was without a doubt waiting for them in the courtyard.

Indeed, when they crossed the ornamented gates marking the courtyard entrance it looked like Sergei had been pacing between the statues and potted plants, his face illuminating when he spotted Alisha. He made to move right to her, hand extending as if to reach for Alisha's but the tight hold Rose had on her arms prevented Alisha from responding and Sergei’s face fell a little though Alisha found herself unable to feel sorry about that. It was rare for Rose to be openly close to her, her body warmth mingling with Alisha's as she snuggled so close that the Princess’ nose could catch the minty scent of her hairs.

"Prince Sergei," She caught herself in time to properly bow at the Prince," It's a pleasure to meet you again."

"And mine Princess Alisha, my day is made brighter by your presence."

But then Alisha turned her eyes away, the Prince's enthusiasm reminding her of her failure. Biting her lips, she tried to find the words to inform Sergei. Rose squeezed her arm in reassurance, close enough to feel her distress. She was the one to talk.

"As much as we are all happy to be back, your highness. We bring bad news." She said, trying to be civil but going straight to the point.

Sometimes Alisha envied the capacity Rose has to just say things as they were. Although Alisha had been dreading Sergei’s disappointment and anger, the Prince surprised her with how he took Rose’s words, he nodded solemn and serious, smile losing his shine.

"There was the possibility of such an outcome." He nodded but then made an inviting gesture with open arms, "But today is the day we celebrate me and my brother’s birthday, my father would be delighted by your presence, we go greet him!"

Confusion was still reigning inside Alisha who certainly didn't expect the news to be taken this well. She swore Sergei had a small bounce to his step as he accompanied them to the throne room. His gaze kept shifting between Alisha and Rose an obvious question burning his tongue. Instead, he engaged Sorey, Zaveid and a very reluctant Mikleo about the trials and combats they had encountered during their travels. Edna intervened once or twice, Alisha holding back her chucked as Sergei failed to decipher her sarcasm.

The throne room was as lush and grand as Alisha remembered. The King and second Prince rose from their throne and stood up on the dais as the group approached them.

Sergei bowed to his father as Alisha, sided by Sorey and Rose kneeled on the carpeted floor.

"Heroes! Forget about formality! You are special guest of Tiberoa!" The king nearly shouted, inviting them to rise with open arms.

While it felt a bit foreign for Alisha to forego protocol, she stood, smoothing her skirt discreetly as Sergei climbed the stairs to go stand at his father’s right.

"Welcome back." the King smiled at them, satisfied to see them all standing on their feet.

Boris' amusement was in plain sight though he couldn't hide the nervous claps of his hands "I'm glad you are safe and sound." He said. "My brother act like all is well but until you came back, Princess Alisha, he had lost his appetite and would barely take part in anything but town's patrols." He added with mirth.

Sergei sent him a glare, and King Strelka chose to intervene before his sons lost themselves into endless teasing. Edna's smirk was mocking but proud as Sorey elbowed Mikleo whispering that they never could beat Edna at this game.

"It wasn't only Prince Sergei. We were all longing for you to come back safely." The king asserted.

"But… we must inform you that although we defeated Forton, she had time to pass the Moon Dagger to one of her accomplice-" Sorey tried, not standing the King praises when he felt they weren't deserving of any praise.

Again, Alisha’s heart squeezed in her chest, her fingers interlacing as she fiddled with them, she was thankful that Sorey was the one to tell the King but ultimately she wouldn't let any of them take responsibility over her failure. It was time to stop acting like a child and hide behind her friends.

"Stop it." The King’s words cut through Alisha's mind and through her musing.

 It seemed he was adamant in refusing their excuse. She winced. It was worth that she thought. King Strelka looked at the balcony.

"You people brought me back my beloved son and brought justice upon the bandits roaming our lands." He told them, his usually booming voice made lower by emotions. "I was informed you removed the Dragon that infested Illisa Bay, now commerce with Fueno is in full bloom again! Tell me how I'm supposed to feel angry about that small matter when it was you who saved Tiberoa and brought smiles back to our people!!" He was out of breath now beaming as he retold of theirs doing.

Of all the things Alisha expected to feel from that encounter, wanting to make herself small to escape the King's embarrassingly forthcoming attention was not on her list. Sorey was fidgeting a bit beside her too and she felt a bit better knowing she wasn't the only one being overwhelmed by all this.

"We just happened to be here at the right moment," Rose tried to stop the King's rant.

"Wasn't it important though, that the Moon Dagger was to be passed on Prince Sergei?" Mikleo asked.

When he hissed because Edna's umbrella poked his back, Alisha almost didn't feel sorry for him. He was curious about Tiberoa's culture that she could understand, but was it really necessary to remind the King about that? Alisha still felt the harsh bite of failure upon her, knowing that losing the Dagger wasn't something she could redeem herself for even though the King kept finding reason for them to be honored. But being reminded that because of her Sergei may never be properly held as Crown Prince as per tradition… it was like poking a fresh wound."

Despite Alisha's concerns neither the Princes nor the King took offence at Mikleo’s question, seemingly taking it for the genuine curiosity it was the King gave Mikleo a nod.

"That was indeed what traditions would require."

Alisha’s arms folded around herself, the prior dejection she had been feeling slowly being replaced by an anticipation raised by the implications behind the King's voice. She waited for him to continue, her breath catching.

"But it’s just that, tradition. It can easily be changed or altered to fit what we need. Traditions alone don't save people and certainly aren't enough to give people hopes for better times."

With a sigh of relief, Alisha felt all the tension leave her shoulders. The King’s words were inspiring and true. As she was herself raised in nobility where traditions were strictly followed and where everything resolved around codes, etiquette and rules Alisha knew just how hard it was to ignore them when they were the founding of your world. She still had a hard time shaking away those habits. She certainly didn't expect finding a sense of freedom in that.

"Princess Alisha,"

She nearly gave a start when the King turned his attention back to her, knowing that a blush was creeping on her cheeks she stood to attention.

"We are satisfied with the way things turned out, and we have to thank you and your companions for that outcome." He asserted.

Boris chooses this moment to speak, "Instead of the Moon Dagger, we found something else to hand down. That is… the heroic tale of the warrior Princess and her companions."

Alisha swore she heard someone discretely squeal in joy behind her, but it was hard to tell with her blood pumping in her ear drum from how loud and fast her heart was beating.

"It-It's such an honor."

Sergei chuckled, pleased by her reaction, "It will be passed down through the ages from person to person: 'The seven stars arose from East to save the country of the King who lives in the Chamber of the Sun.'"

"It was our pleasure your Majesty. We are not the kind to ignore people in need." Sorey exclaimed, voice too loud as if he was trying very hard to control his emotions.

It was the King's turn to stifle a chuckle, amused by Sorey’s reaction, he cleared his throat, "That’s enough for formality!" he stated, "You are presently invited to the banquet given for the Twin Princes’ birthday. Please enjoy yourself."

"This is much more than-" Alisha started.

But looking around her to find out if her companions shared her reluctance she found them in various states of jubilation. Rose was pumping her fist.

"We won't say no to a party! Let's grab some booze you all!"

Alisha stood baffled by the sheer amount of indecency Rose showed. That’s it, that's finally when the King got fed up and sent them to cool down in jail.

The King couldn't stifle his laughter this time, "You sure are lively! Love that enthusiasm."

That was almost too much for Alisha. Confused, she shook her head and decided she wouldn't try to understand the Tiberoan court anymore.

They were given some leisure time before the party, a quiet moment before they had to resume their travels and depart for Mille Seaseau. Somehow they all knew they were being baited by Lunarre, they could be heading right into a trap, no it was obviously some kind of trap but did they really have choice? It put some pressure on Mikleo's shoulders, so having some time off was more than welcomed.

Almost naturally, the group scattered around the town to enjoy some moments alone, Edna went to visit her rumored water Seraph friend though Mikleo still doubted she could have friends. Lailah and Zaveid left to who knows where and Rose and Alisha returned to the Marketplace.

Mikleo felt elated with the opportunity he was given to spend some time with Sorey. It felt like forever since they were allowed time to relax and he could finally let go. They had every intention to explore the Twin Castle now that no guards would stop them, but they ended up spending most of their time in the library. Rows and rows of books from all over the continent and spanning many eras until the Dragon Campaign had them entranced.

It took a determined bookkeeper and her assistant to throw them outside when their debate about a renowned untamed Dragon that had terrorized the weakened population a hundred years after they became too loud and animated…even though Mikleo had written proof that the Dragon was not a seraphic one with a picture of it depicted as a giant Armored cow like thing, making it a primary Dragon. Thought they never saw one, it was a proved fact they had more diverse shape than seraphic Dragon, and looked more like common animals!

Mikleo sighed taking in the great view of the city they had over the balcony, everything looking so small. Sorey was still sulking behind him, sat on a stone bench, hand playing idly with the leaves of a potted plant beside him, still displeased that their argument was brutally ended without resolution.

Rolling his eyes, because he could never stay angry at Sorey for long, Mikleo turned back to face him, "I love you, Sorey."

It worked instantly, Sorey’s sour face turning bright with his smile and his green eyes lightening with profound affection.

Mikleo could barely stand to be looked at like that, heat spreading in his chest, he averted his gaze as a pang struck his heart, "I had loved you for so long… sometimes I feel like I'm dreaming and when I'll wake up, your hand won't be in mine, you lips won't sought mine and-"

When Sorey’s hand touched his arm, Mikleo’s brain short circuited and his thoughts were lost, instantly forgetting where he wanted to go with that. Unable to form coherent thoughts, he watched as Sorey gathered his hand in his and bought Mikleo's knuckle to his lips.

"I can't even remember the first time I realized I was in love with you, you know," with his free hand Sorey rubbed his nape, intertwining their fingers together with the other until they were palm to palm, "It was… I thought you would never want to love me like that. And I thought it would be enough, I mean you are a seraph and seraphim are different from humans, I know that. But then there was all of this and I started to want more and... I'm babbling aren't I?

"When aren't you babbling anyway?"

They both chuckled, Sorey choosing this moment to attach his other hand around Mikleo's, it felt warm, comfortable.

"I'm happy." Mikleo breathed, his forehead landing on Sorey shoulder, "This, traveling… with everyone, even if you are reckless and keep landing us in more problems, I'm happy being here with you, with everyone."

"Mikleo, I-"

"Sorey! Mikleo! Young lads, welcome back!"

The sudden exclamation had them separating from each other in a hurry, Mikleo scowling at Masedra as he walked to them.

"What's wrong? You have such a sour face." He told Mikleo, confused by his attitude.

For an answer, Mikleo narrowed his eyes crossing his arm over his chest. As much as he told Sorey he loved travelling with everyone, moments alone with Sorey were scarce and it was another interruption.

"Anyway! You sure became famous in the city! The Hero that defeated the bandits and chased the Dragon away with the sheer force of his will!

Sorey coughed, sharing a glance with Mikleo, "If you say so…?. It still doesn't feel like it's real."

"You sure have a modest attitude. You are our times latest hero!"

Mikleo shrugged, "No one recognized us in the marketplace earlier."

"Oh, I guess no one really knows how you look, I certainly have heard tales of your handsomeness," Mikleo's hand wasn't enough to stifle his laugh at that, fortunately Masedra didn't seem to notice, "I nearly forgot! I was looking for you to inform you that the party is starting. Young Seraph, please get rid of your sour face. It's a glorious day, be happy. I'll see you later."

The man seemed invigorated when he left them confused, walking quite fast for a man his age. Mikleo looked back at Sorey, his sour mood forgotten when their gaze met, instead he was starting to feel amused by Masedra's interruption, he held up his hand ready to resume where they were. Sorey’s smile was almost blinding when he took back Mikleo’s hand his eyes half-closed as he leaned down to-

"Oh!? Sorey, Mikleo! Why are you still here? Getting frisky?"

The purring old woman’s voice prompted them to look near their feet as Morgrim was nonchalantly starting to lick at her white fur.

Mikleo seethed between his teeth.

"We, hum, we are waiting for the party to start." Sorey answered, more level headed than Mikleo right now.

"Well, it's about to start," Said Morgrim, rubbing at her ear with her freshly licked paw. "You'll need to get dressed first. It's a royal birthday. I won't let you attend with clothes that smell of dirt and sweat."

With that, she started to trot back toward the castle, then as Mikleo shrugged she turned back, "Well, what are you waiting for! Go get the others so that I can tell the maid to prepare the outfits!"

His thumb rubbing at Sorey's hand, Mikleo reluctantly let go, "Well, I guess I'll be the one going to look for everybody."

Without waiting for an answer Mikleo walked away, swift in his steps because otherwise he would regret having to end this moment with Sorey, the faintest call of his name would make him turn back and forget that they were expected. He should have expected that Sorey would fallow after him.

"Let's go together!"

Mikleo wondered if it was safe for his heart to feel so much warmth.

They had chosen the harbor to rest after overseeing the Sparrow Feather’s work at the Market. Rose was in a festive mood after finding out just how much profit they made with today’s sale alone. She glanced at Alisha whose gaze followed the sailors charging and discharging cargo from boats of all different size. A fisherman was hefting an impressive crate full of shinny fish, gloating as a fellow fisherman praised his catch.

Remembering the King's words, Rose was half surprised that many conversations she caught in town revolved around the Princess Knight and her companions. Caressing the thought that she could come up with merchandised representing the heroes to sell, Rose observed Alisha's profile nodding as she designed a doll looking like her in her mind.

"Do you know about the legend of the King and the Mermaid?"

Alisha's lips were moving and her beautiful almond green eyes still turned toward the sea, Rose blinked finally registering the words.

"No…I don't think I’ve heard that one." And it was something, because Rose had traveled a lot and knew many tales from around the word. Alisha was full of surprises, "Please tell me more about it." She smiled, inching closer.

Alisha smiled too, though she had a hint of sadness in it and she still refused to turn towards Rose, "The King of some country was gazing over the sea and thinking, his life is hollow, just like the vanishing bubbles. Everything looked like that because the King didn't know true love and thought he never would."

It was then Alisha turned her gaze at Rose. It was so intense Rose could barely hold it back, for a battle hardened assassin, she felt herself blush like a maiden. Her lips tingled with the phantom memory of a press of lips shared in the heat of the moment when the relief of seeing her alive had made Alisha act before she could think. That was all, Rose couldn't allow herself to read more into that kiss, and as good as it had felt.

"Under the waves, a mermaid was thinking the same things while gazing at the clouds in the sky." Alisha’s voice was soft and entrancing.

 Rose licked her lips listening with rapt attention.

"That's sure is a… different tale. And what happened to them?" She found herself asking, trying to dispel the need the taste those lips one last time.

"Would you like to know?"

Sweet, innocent Alisha was teasing her, Rose couldn't believe it. She was left blinking, a bit proud and a bit aroused, like she needed that. She cleared her throat trying to think hard about something unsexy, something like… Zaveid trying to hit on her and a shiver crept down her back.

"This is actually a story handed only down Serdio’s royal family so… I cannot really tell you more unless-"

Rose couldn't resist a playful slap against Alisha's arm, "Stop teasing me." Then her eyes widened, mouth hanging open when she registered the implication of Alisha's words, "Are you… are you suggesting I should marry-"

"There you are!"

Never had the need to strangle Mikleo been this hard to ignore. To Rose's disappointment, Alisha's rose from the crate she was sitting on to go greet the intruders, or cockblockers she would rather say but… maybe she could hope, right? Maybe if she had taken it upon herself and taken that kiss from Alisha she would know.

It wasn't too late for that. Rose was looking forward to tonight’s party.

Sorey kept fiddling with his white tie, the material was soft but the heat from the ballroom, the people dancing and pacing around him was making it stifling. Would it be impolite to just loosen it a little?  Prince Sergei had insisted for Sorey to wear one of his old outfits and Sorey had no place to refuse. That and the look the Prince had when his choice of outfit happened to be a perfect for Sorey, or so he said.

He was now standing beside Zaveid, who somehow managed to escape the dress up but had conceded to wear a black vest though with no shirt under it. Honestly, how he had passed the guard wearing that was still a mystery for Sorey, but at least the Prince didn't seem offended.

To say that Sorey was unused to wearing such fine cloth was an understatement and he was still astounded that it fit him so well. The Prince was now boarder and taller than him, but it was in fact easy to imagine that he was once close to Sorey’s size.

So Sorey was wearing Sergei’s colors, white red and gold and didn't know what to make of it. Did the white vest with gold rimming with two rows of gold buttons and red embroidered cuff sleeves and shoulders made him look princely? Or maybe it was the white and red cape and the red belt than emphasized his waist and completed the look. After all it was also intricately embroidered with gold patterns at the end. He was even given red and white boots to complete the look. Hell, even his hair was combed as much as the maid could, giving him a more put together air. Girls kept giggling between themselves when they passed by him, and more than once a boy did too. Sorey felt mortification rise by the second and Zaveid’s quiet appraisal didn't help.

"Did you misplace Mikleo?" Zaveid asked, dispelling the tension, though his smirk gave a bit of a teasing edge.

"He was called by Prince Boris to be lent an outfit. I didn't see him since then." Sorey nodded, anxious about what Mikleo would think about his appearance.

Zaveid hummed under his breath, looking around the full ballroom too, his eyes shone a bit when he located something he liked.

"Well, the girls aren't here yet either. I guess. I'll help myself to the buffet for the time being."

"Wait, I don't-" in the time for Sorey to formulate his concern, Zaveid had already carefully glided between the guests and the dancing couples to reach the other side of the room, "-want to be left alone."

Sorey was finding out the hard way that he wasn't made for formal events. There seemed to be a lull between dances as the music stopped and Sorey considered his options. Either he continued to attract unwanted attention standing near the entrance or he could do like Zaveid and start digging in. A low rumble of his stomach made him lean toward the second option. Searching for the buffet table, Sorey turned away from the entrance until he heard a few girls gasp loudly near him, one of them starting to giggle and he turned his attention to them instead, ready to frown and look displeased to preserve his dignity. But they were not giggling at him. The one hiding her face behind her fan couldn't hide just how much her ears were red.

Turning around, Sorey understood had he forgot his self-restraint he would have gasped too. Well to be honest, he did let out a gasp.

Mikleo, sided by a prideful looking Boris all in midnight blue and gold was holding Mikleo’s arm with his, guiding him inside the ballroom. And Mikleo was… breathtaking. There was no other word.

Sorey’s outfit seemed simple compared to what Boris had Mikleo wear. To Sorey there was no doubt that Mikleo looked like a foreign Prince invited for the festivity, one that was friends with Boris and the most beautiful thing ever taking stop in this room. The white of the outfit enlightened Mikleo pale skin, the cape he was given shorter than Sorey's but draping over his shoulder elegantly, the inside had a diamond pattern alternating between turquoise and aquamarine that were a nice fitting with Mikleo's hair. The neckline of his vest was wide enough to let appear a raven black shirt with a high neckline completed by a small turquoise cravat, much more practical than Sorey's.

When he spotted Sorey, Mikleo’s black gloved hand unconsciously rose to touch the blue rose pinned to his shoulder, until his fingers reached the golden ropes connected to his cape. Everything in this outfit looks like it was made to bring out Mikleo’s pale skin, his amethyst eyes shining in the ostentatious chandelier light.

The next moment, the Prince is leading Mikleo closer and Sorey must have forgotten how to breathe because he let out a loud exhale through his nose. Boris gave him a knowing smile, tilting his head in greeting.

"I see my brother did well with you. You almost look like an estranged cousin of ours." He said, amused.

Beside him Mikleo is hiding his mouth behind his hand, eyes avoiding Sorey. Sorey didn’t want to seem rude but he just can't take his eyes away from Mikleo and his answer to Boris his curt and not very eloquent.

"Ah, thank you."

Mikleo rolled his eyes and Boris chuckled, "Well, my brother and father are waiting for me, I'm made them wait too long. I hope you'll enjoy the festivity. Sorey, Mikleo."

The way he detached his arm from Mikleo's looked like he is handing him over to Sorey like a father leaving his daughter to the altar. The group of girls beside them was loud and hard to ignore when Sorey held a gloved hand to Mikleo.

"You look…divine." Sorey managed to say.

Mikleo was averting his eyes, pink dusting his cheek as he accepts Sorey’s outstretched hand in his. Sorey’s eyes linger on the gap between gloves and creamy skin where Mikleo's sleeve stops after the elbow. His throat feels dry and his heart is pounding in his chest, making Sorey unable to do much more than to hold Mikleo's fingers between his.

"You are not half bad either," Mikleo’s voice helped restart his brain, "Looks like the finest lipstick can make the cutest pig after all.

 Sorey’s mouth opened as he is torn between wanting to laugh and wanting to be offended but then the guests start a round of applause and both his and Mikleo's attention is forced away from each other. The couples dancing are parting to allow a single couple to stand in the middle. Prince Sergei looks truly happy, all in red hues and gold trim, with Alisha at his arm. She looks pleased too with her blond hair pinned in a messy bun that allowed some of her curls to fall. Her simple jewelry and dark blue ball gown trimmed in lace that left her shoulders bare were eliciting a few jealous commentaries from the group of girls.

The music resumed and the Prince and Princess started to dance, they twirled in the middle of the ballroom for a few moments before the other guests started to join them making the couple disappear back behind a flurry of dresses and expensive cloths.

"Shall we dance too?"

Sorey bowed, copying the formal way to ask for a dance he had observed. Mikleo couldn't hide his wide smile when he bowed in turn accepting Sorey’s offer.

"If this pig thinks he knows how to." Mikleo teased again.

It was Sorey’s turn to roll his eyes, but he failed to be annoyed when more jealous bemoans and complaints reached his ears. Mikleo was his and he will show them. The glove covering Mikleo’s fingers was delicate so Sorey held him carefully as he led them toward the dancers.

"We shall see."

A hand landed on Mikleo's shoulder, careful and attentive while the other hesitated before finally landing on Mikleo's waist caressing the small of his back where his vest was cut low, exposing the tighter outfit underneath and not for the first time tonight, Sorey loathed that he is also wearing gloves. He eventually grasped Mikleo’s hand, holding it as Mikleo’s other hand found his shoulder and they started moving.

His steps are careful at first, it was is actual first time dancing outside of Shiron's lesson, but as his steps gained in confidence Mikleo's smile grew. It seems Sorey knew what he is doing after all, moving to the music and following the other guests moves around the room. They twirled together, Mikleo's eyes filling with mirth as it plunged into Sorey's.

Once or twice he saw Mikleo watch their feet, not as confident as it appeared at first but Sorey surprised him with a fast change of step, bringing Mikleo's chest against his.

"What-" Mikleo gasped breath caught by the sudden movement.

The truth was Sorey had been struck by a bout of possessiveness as he they passed by a group the group of girls from earlier. Fluttering sensation still thrumming inside his body, he had acted on impulse.

"Sometimes I want everyone to see how beautiful you are, but there a moment when I wish you are invisible and only I could see you and you'll be mine only." He confessed breath close to Mikleo ear.

The music got a little quicker as they reached the end of the piece, and as they followed the movement, Mikleo's breath quickened, the shiver racking thought his body could only be a reaction to Sorey lips so near his ear though. The ballroom felt stifling again. Warmth spread so fast into Mikleo's chest it reached Sorey from how close they were.

It was certain Mikleo wanted to answer but when he lifted his head to escape his tormentor closeness, he lost himself into the shiny aventurine of his eyes, inviting, entrancing. And Mikleo understood.

For what seemed an eternity, they were the only ones left in the world, head spinning with the dance and the atmosphere and the warmth around, Sorey was transported and was taking Mikleo away with him. It was almost too much, threatening to drown them both, neither knew which one of them lost his footing first. At the cost of breaking eye contact, Sorey regained his composure and spared them a fall.

A fluttering sensation remained as they broke apart after the song ending, the musician attuning themselves for the following. Sorey remembered to breath.

"Can I borrow Mikleo for a dance?"

Sorey nearly jumped at Lailah unexpected apparition. She had her hair gathered in a long and twisting braid starting from the top of her head and was lent a long white and red dipped sleeveless dress that ended around her bust to cover her neck with black shear fabric. A gold embroidered pattern starting from the waist to her feet hugged her legs in a twisting way reminiscent of her braid. Long black glove and red sash finished her look with some accent of gold jewelry.

She was holding her hand in a pleading motion, some hesitation on her gaze at it shifted from Sorey to Mikleo, knowing she had interrupted something, but seemingly having a good reason to.

Knowing of the pouting expression adorning his face, Sorey turned back toward Mikleo, and his friend nod of approval was all it took for them to separate, Lailah gladly accepting Mikleo outstretched hand.

A loud sigh left Sorey lungs, his longing to touch Mikleo so overwhelming that when the music resumed and the others started dancing, he could think of nothing else.

"Sorey! Come drink something."

Thankfully, Rose voice made Sorey aware that he was still standing in the middle of the ballroom were every other dancer would eventually bump into him. He reluctantly moved his eyes away and moved toward Rose.

She was lingering with Zaveid near the buffet table, immediately giving him a glass of fresh clear looking beverage. It didn't take a second thought for Sorey to dip his lips in and drink.

"You sure are thirsty," Zaveid commented, shoving a pastry in his mouth to close the conversation.

Rose rolled her eyes, and slapped Zaveid arm.  It was a surprise to find her wearing a knee length powder pink dress with a burgundy corset and petticoat, her hair styled away from her face with small braid framing it. Sorey never doubted that Rose could be feminine; just it was something else to see.

"Your dress suits you well."

 Still, she was the king of woman who would never trade a weapon for an apron and he was certain she had some hidden weapon on her.

 The reddish cup of what must be red wine in her hand was downed before she replied, a half-hearted thank.  Though she had invited him to come over the buffet table, Rose seemed too preoccupied to discuss and Sorey found out why when followed her gaze back to Alisha dancing happily with the Prince.

Something traversed his mind but Sorey refrained, instead pulling on his cravat, the air feeling even stuffier than when he was dancing.

"I think I should get some fresh air. Thanks for the refreshment, I needed it."

Rose grumbled something in answer but Sorey could barely hear over the noise ringing in his hear. His steps carried him toward the balcony, the sea breeze a welcome respite. It smelled of salt and warm stone even though the moon was high and reflecting in the tide.

Though Sorey was breathing better here, it did nothing to extinguish the fire within him.

The faint smell of vanilla was the first thing he caught, before Mikleo's voice rose over the rhythmic sound of waves. Sorey turned, Mikleo literally crashing in his arms. Left alone with only the stars and the waves as companion, they were finally alone.

A stray strand of Mikleo's hair was pushed against his nose by the wind. Gloved hands brushed Mikleo's nose as Sorey couldn't resist putting the strand back behind his ear. The smile Sorey won for his gesture was more treasurable than any jewel on Earth.

Mikleo got as close as he could nose brushing against his, Sorey letting out a small embarrassing noise. Usually, Mikleo was the one that refused to display affection in public, so it was amazing.

"Lailah looked so determined in getting to dance with you."

The balcony was far from the bright lit ballroom for the penumbra to hide them yet Sorey could see just how red Mikleo turned.

"She-she wanted to give me some advice."

Sorey loathed the fact his words made Mikleo look away from him, but curiosity won.

"An advice?"

His insistence had Mikleo hide his whole face against Sorey shoulder as he let out a frustrated sigh

"You remember back in Fueno, what you told me about how it could be." Mikleo's voice came muffled.

The memory struck Sorey in his core, he swallowed unable to do much but nod his understanding. His movement made Mikleo bolder and he lifted his head, hiding into Sorey's neck, the skin scalding under his breath.

"I want… I want you to touch me, Sorey."

Sorey was helpless then, falling prey to Mikleo words.  The warmth and want that had been building inside him all night finally exploding in a cacophony of feeling, sensations and thought his though were unclear, Sorey felt himself answer.

"Yes."

The next thing he registered was their assigned bedroom door falling shut behind his back and Mikleo pushing him against it.

Even the lava pit of Villude Volcano weren't as hot. Sorey thought he knew the taste and the feeling of Mikleo's lips, having shared as many kiss as he could steal before but this was anything like before. Never had he felt this hunger.

Lips kissing, tongue searching, hands running in his hair, under his clothe, it wanted more, it was never enough. Every time Mikleo would give a small intake of breath, every gasp, every response to a squeeze, a stroke, a probe of finger had Sorey burning.

He felt like he was about to be devoured and he couldn't help but want to devoir in turn, Mikleo was exploring his mouth, fiddling with Sorey gloves to remove them, inviting Sorey's hands to touch him with bare skin. It was too much too soon and Sorey had to breathe.

Cradling Mikleo’s face between his now freed hand, Sorey breath sounded deafening in the silent room. Mikleo let out small noise of protest, a thorn prickling his heart.

"Wait, we should-" He trailed, not knowing what he need to say, it just felt so overwhelming.

Sorey knew Mikleo could be passionate, intense, never had he thought it could be applied like that.

"I'm not afraid." Mikleo told him finger trembling slightly as he removed Sorey cravat, a small nip landing on the freed skin. "I want this. I want you to touch me."

Sorey gasped, "But you are… I don't want to pressure you into it."

This time Sorey is interrupted by Mikleo pressing himself against his thigh, stealing his breath because even between the layers of clothes he still couldn't mistake the hardness he felt there for something else. Mouth hanging slightly open with his hand finding purchase against Mikleo's waist, Sorey tried to process everything.

Mikleo wanted him. Truly wanted him.

"You made me like this. I'm reacting to you Sorey, so please take responsibility."

It sounded so small, so vulnerable coming from Mikleo that Sorey found himself ashamed that it aroused him more than he already was, sending jolts of molted fire right through his spine. This time he was the one that couldn't get enough of Mikleo’s mouth, the pleased moans the seraph let out sounding like a song to Sorey's ears.

The high collar was getting in the way because Sorey wanted to taste, to mouth at Mikleo's throat and mark him, make everyone see what they were doing, what they had done. Clothes started to fall all around them as explorative hands were replaced by lips and sometimes teeth. Sorey had become a beast driven by instincts and Mikleo’s noises kept increasing in frequency and volume telling Sorey how pleased he was.

He was guiding him though this, driving them both inside with need and want and pleasure and this.

Sometimes hesitation and inexperience slowed them but Mikleo shame was lost somewhere between his vest and his underclothes and he sure knew how to get what he wanted, needed Sorey to do. He just wanted everything Sorey could give to him and Sorey would do anything that could drive another cry out of Mikleo's lips, anything to have him writhe and arch underneath him as he caressed and touched, worshiping the supple and soft skin he was offered.

Mikleo’s nails keep digging in his shoulders, in his thighs and hips, marking him in his flesh, mouth seeking Sorey's, he kept biting his lower lip until he could feel the blood pulse into the flesh when he kissed him. Sorey could tell Mikleo was proud of himself, proud to be the one rendering Sorey to this state.

 "How could you be so beautiful?"

Sorey breathed as he pushed Mikleo back against silky sheets. It was dark because they didn't bother with the lamps and only the moon and stars were outlining Mikleo's silhouette but it was much more than Sorey needed. He traced Mikleo's ribs, leaving a trail of goose bumps in his wake as Mikleo shivered and arched his back. The pale skin of his chest was reddened by arousal, nearly glowing in the moonlight.

"Sorey. You are killing me so stop teasing." Mikleo breathed as his leg lifted to hook against Sorey's hip.

Sorey let out a groan of his own when Mikleo's move made his hips shift just slightly, their hardness meeting in a delicious friction. Mikleo moved again, seeking the sensation. Sorey’s hand had to hold his hips, making Mikleo growl in protest.

"I won't, I'm far from done with you." He offered a quiet whisper in the night.

Chapter Text

Part III: Story of Fate And Soul

As soon as the Van Eltia landed sails were down and the ship docked, there was nothing to stop Sorey and Mikleo from running out, mouths open in awe as their usual back and forth commentary about the town harbor they had landed in started. To be honest, it had even began when they were approaching, the bubble shaped houses of Furni that ran along the lagoon catching their attention immediately. They ran ahead of the rest of the group, laughing as they raced each other to the end of the harbor.

They had to eventually stop before the only house whose foundation wasn't etched into the water. There was a small plaza before the house, with a couple of benches and raised railing to stop tourists from falling into the water.

Like Bale, Furni was built around canals and waterways but unlike Bale where the houses were on solid land, here each house was built on the water with the only land connecting them being the harbor and the many terrace gardens they could observe. The houses seemed close together, like a cluster of barnacles Lailah had said, round shaped with a lot of small round windows. To Mikleo, the resemblance with Elysia's houses was even more pronounced than they were with Bale’s castle.

"It's so much more than the Celestial Record described! Look, there is even moss growing on the houses' side! That's why it was so green from afar." Mikleo commented.

Most of the floating houses had been whitened by the salted sea air that permeated the lagoon, though it seemed corrosion had nothing to do with their shapes. It seemed that to bring colors flowers and plants were given free rein to grow where they wanted around the town. The large house in front of them even had a small tree growing between two widows.

Sorey nodded, looking around with wide green eyes, enchanted by the sight they were given to see. "There is vegetation everywhere. Plants are growing on roofs and terraces. We should have known that if those people could build floating houses, they could build floating gardens as well." He observed.

"And the water is so clear too." Mikleo added as he shifted over a railing to observe the lagoon water that ran below it. "I'm pretty sure Seraphim were involved in this town’s construction now."

Sorey nodded and Mikleo looked triumphant that he wouldn't even dare argue his implacable logic.

Mikleo moved forward and looked at the water closely, the bank they were walking on was well above the water and provided a nice position to under it and see the bottom of the lagoon. There the waters were crystal clear and shallow, the houses foundations sinking into the soil. The current was flowing gently almost unmoving, making a soothing noise. It made Mikleo increasingly happy. Taking a deep breath he concentrated on another flow, one that only Seraphim could see, the phantom threads of the great tree running around and following the flow to go out to sea. Many of those threads a blue tinge, more so than in any town they had visited so far.

"Those are ideal lands for a water Seraph." He mused, hand covering his mouth in thought.

There was something strange though. Furni was the harbor town connecting Mille Seseau to Tiberoa, but even at the harbor the town’s activity had seemed a little down, granted they were close to evening but still, he had thought the canals would be bursting with life.

"Hey don't run away like that!"

He hadn't felt Zaveid approach from behind them and now Zaveid’s arm was locked around his neck while Sorey shared his fate. Zaveid brought them closer to his chest and Mikleo couldn't hide the annoyed scrunching of his nose.

"Are you done exploring? Just asking, because the girls are wondering if we may stay here until tomorrow? They need to know to decide whether we book rooms in the local Inn or stay in the Van Eltia for one more night."

Sorey groaned at the prospect of staying one more night on the rocking ship, granted the harbor bay was calmer than the high sea but Mikleo could tell he missed the ground under his feet. With a sigh, Mikleo forcefully removed Zaveid’s arm away from his shoulder, turning to glare at him but it turned non-threatening when he saw that Sorey seemed unbothered by the way he was being held by Zaveid. He crossed his arms over his chest.

"We were just admiring the architecture. We didn't know it had gotten this late."

Mikleo scoffed when Zaveid squeezed Sorey under his biceps, "Well, we did agree that to boost our chance of walking right into whatever trap Lunarre had set for us we must go to the capitol city Deningrad." He paused, then pointed his finger over the top of the houses over the horizon," See those tall trees over there?"

Mikleo and Sorey’s gaze followed Zaveid's direction, looking over the horizon behind the house they could see the dark green top of an enormous clusters of trees, standing tall and dense. They couldn't see much but it was obvious the forest bordering the lagoon extended well beyond their sight

"That's the Evergreen Forest. We have to cross it on our way to Deningrad and it's just as huge as it looks. If we go into it now we'll have night falling on us in the middle of it. Neither the girls nor I are willing to bivouac so soon after getting back on land."

With his frown deepening as he explained Zaveid seemed really reluctant to cross the Evergreen Forest at night. It piqued Mikleo’s curiosity, that this man was this knowledgeable of the area. Well, Zaveid did travel around the world before meeting them, but it occurred to him that he wasn't this informed about Tiberoa or even Serdio geography. Finally, Mikleo's eyes widened when it dawned on him that maybe Mille Seseau could be Zaveid’s birth place.

"It's true that the more time spent stalling is more time for Lunarre to make damage," Rose’s voice interrupted his train of thought, stopping anything he could have said to Zaveid, "I don't like it either but Zaveid has a point, this forest is dense and dark in the day, so imagine at night?"

"You seem to know the area well. Did you come here before, Zaveid?" Sorey asked, actually following and finishing Mikleo's thought.

It made him pull out his lower lip, Mikleo vexed that Sorey beat him to this question.

Amber eyes gleaming, Zaveid ruffled Sorey’s hair as he released him. Hooking his fingers on his belt he took a deep breath through his nose before exhaling loudly.

"Ah, it's good to be back."

Mikleo’s eyebrow rose, "So you indeed are from around here?"

Zaveid’s grin had something enigmatic in it, like the answer he was about to give Mikleo didn't hold all the truth. And when he had expected from someone like Rose to still hide things from them, Zaveid had proved until then that he was someone trustworthy and honest although a bit obnoxious. Mikleo didn't like the idea that he couldn't trust Zaveid for this simple question.

But before he could say anything, a commotion broke from behind them. The large house door at the end of the plaza broke open and a group of heavily armed men came out one after another. Completely ignorant of Mikleo and his companion, they invaded the plaza, armor clanking noisily as they formed a circle. They were obviously warriors, gruff men and women looking about to go on whatever campaign. They stopped moving when one last man came out and closed the door behind him. His armor was more official looking, a helmet covering most of his face and a sigil marking his chest plate. He gave a quick appraisal at the warriors gathered around him, then straightened his back and puffed his chest.

"This seems to be all of us," He stated, then raising his voice to a louder level, "To be sure you'll all understand the contract I'm going to repeat. We need to overcome the white wolf called Wiggs that lives in the Evergreen Forest between this town and Deningrad."

"So many of us for just one wolf?" One of the warriors whispered harshly. His hairy face scrunching in distaste.

The resident knight heard him though and turned to speak directly to the man, "Not only that but a girl, Margaret disappeared in the forest. We need this many men to cover more ground as the wolf is very dangerous and has already killed, we must find the girl before the beast." He looked around the warriors, some of them sporting uninterested expressions, and then sighed, "I promise to increase the bounty by five for those of you who defeat Wiggs. The same for the one who saves Margaret."

Rose stepped up, and Mikleo knew just how her eyes must be shining at the promise of a reward. Sorey’s expression had soured when the missing girl had been mentioned, with Mikleo already resigning himself to the fact that they would be involved in the search party. It seemed that trouble would be finding them wherever they were. It made sense now with the menace of a man eating wolf over the town that not many people were outside.

The warriors were exited too by the mention of a reward; a large man swung his axe too close for Mikleo's taste. He was itching to send a splash of water at him. The knight dismissed the warriors though before their cheering became out of hand and they started to leave the plaza, probably leaving to prepare for their mission. The hairy faced man bumped shoulders with Zaveid.

"Heh, you look like you have a chance but don't be presumptuous the reward is for me." He taunted.

Zaveid rolled his eyes and stepped aside to let him pass, "Those guys would never learn." He mumbled.

The clapping of Lailah’s hands and her lilting voice made Mikleo aware that the other girls had finally joined them and that they had witnessed the entire scene. "So, now we are going to participate and find that little girl?"

"You bet!" Rose answered before anyone could refuse, "Traveling cost a lot of money, we can't say no to extra gold."

"We traveled for free, Aifread offered us the ride." Edna deadpanned.

"Anyway, there is still a few hours left before sundown. I can't stand the idea of a little girl alone and lost in a dangerous forest." Sorey interjected.

"Ahem," the knight having obviously heard their conversation cleared his throat to get their attention. "Are you possibly the Heroes of Tiberoa that came with the huge ship?"

More ready than any of them to handle formal conversation, Alisha stepped up, "I-I don't really know about the heroes part but we did come with the ship." Her cheeks had a pink hue.

The knight shook his head, "Nonsense, you chased the Dragon and reestablished the commercial trade with Tiberoa, so you are Heroes to us too. The mayor asked me to inform he would like to meet you as soon as possible. You'll be lent the small boats we use to move around the canals, I'll show you there." He said firmly.

"What about Margaret? We would like to participate in the search." Sorey asserted.

The knight smiled at him, "You found me grateful for your generous offer," then his face fell, "But we do have many knight looking for her so I'm confident. Night may be falling soon but Margaret knows how to navigate the forest and is a resourceful girl, she'll know what to do if we are unable to find her before night. I'm more worried about the wolf

Sorey’s entire stance crumbled almost imperceptibly, Mikleo knew how to read him and noticing the change he took Sorey’s hand in his, reassuringly. He too was worried for Margaret and they could only trust in the knight’s judgment that she would be fine.

"He's right, people around here know how to make good of the forest. That kid would be fine."

Reassurance coming from Zaveid was unexpected but Sorey seemed to trust him enough to relax at his words. Then the knight invited them to follow them back into the large house. Sorey and Mikleo’s attention was momentarily diverted back to the architectural wonder of Furni.

The house was actually an Inn with a dark wooden counter and round tables around the room. There was  many potted plants, ficus and succulents mostly, decorating the area, as well as fishing net and few seashells reminding the travelers that it was a fisherman town. The ground and the walls were as white as the outside with a spiraling staircase leading to the upper levels. What surprised Mikleo the most was that this level was a mezzanine that overlooked a lower level immersed in water.

"Are all the houses like that? It's incredible."

"Seraphim must have helped shape the town a great deal. Do you think it was like that back in The Dragon Campaign or was it built after?"

"Well there is nothing to give a proper time range here. Maybe we should see more of the town before making conjectures."

"…And we lost them again." Rose complained, holding a hand over her forehead.

The knight was blinking in confusion, obviously torn between letting the boys have their fill or continue on his way to the mayor’s house. He didn't know that Sorey and Mikleo's companions were used to that and wouldn't stand the time it would take them to stop on their own.

With a shrug of her shoulders, Edna stepped between them. "Hey meebo, you are glowing. You and Sorey did the nasty, am I right," her smile was devilish.

Mikleo’s face was getting redder by the second while his brain was processing Edna's words. Sorey was rubbing his nape wile letting out an awkward laugh as Mikleo protested.

"What are you-! This has nothing to do with the situation!" He sputtered hand covering his mouth.

"Then maybe we could proceed?" She said all cutesy with a finger touching her lips, "The mayor is waiting and a little girl is lost."

"We should!"

Mikleo stomped, moving toward the small staircase leading to the lower level. Sorey followed him before the confused knight decided he should move too. Then Edna promptly turned toward the rest of the group that stood stunned by her intervention.

"They totally did."

She disappeared behind the wall as the stairs took her down.

Rose shivered, "Sometimes, Edna scares me."

Mikleo only needed to raise his head to see the rest of the group standing on the mezzanine. Rubbing his cheek to help the hot blood circulate and his flush disappear. He shuddered at the too fresh memory of the humiliation Edna nearly doomed him with. Maotelus forgive him. He was assaulted with images of just how perfect Sorey had been that night, how gentle he had been. It had felt so good so overwhelming and so warm, Mikleo couldn't have had enough. And more than once in the time it took to travel to Furni he had found himself reminiscing it, his body reacting in strange ways. Like a thirst that could only be quenched by Sorey's touch, Sorey's presence. Sorey had doomed him. He had doomed himself.

"What a weird shape."

Sorey's voice brought him back to the moment, reminding him he wasn't alone and heat crept along Mikleo's cheek again. Discreetly he breathed in and out, trying to gather himself as his body tingled with the need to be between Sorey's embrace.

Leaning against an alcove, Sorey was accepting the small boat that the knight was handing to him. He looked at the small, feather light thing from all angles before putting him in the water, watching in astonishment as it floated easily.

"Those are the small boats we traditionally use to navigate around the town. A tourist must get a permit from the Inn owner to borrow one. Ah, but the mayor invited you so, I'll help you navigate them."

Mikleo took his own small boat from the knight. It was unlike anything he had ever seen, it was like it had been sculpted in one block, shaped like a pear and as tall a one human man. There was some larger ones that could hold more people, Rose taking one of those for her and Alisha. It was observing them that he remembered those boats were mentioned in the Celestial Record.

"The Celestial Record says they are made to replicate the shape of a Great Tree Fruit." Alisha provided at the same time Mikleo remembered the line.

He didn't know why but this fact settled weirdly in him and it wasn't the rocking of the boat as he sat on it that made his stomach flutter in an unpleasant way. "How strange, I though no one was ever able to see the Great Tree, less one of its Fruit."

"It's a made up shape obviously." Sorey said. "Maybe that's some artistic take that goes with the houses' shape.

"Oh Meebo, please do tell us. Was Sorey a gentle lover?"

"Let's head to the mayor’s house!"

Mikleo rushed them all, already leaving toward the canal to avoid more embarrassment. Edna seemed really pleased with herself.

"Lead the way Mister Knight."

The man fumbled a bit with his own boat, the paddle he was about to give to Mikleo still in his hand.

"Huh, yes!"

Zaveid leaned toward Lailah, chuckling, "Wait until they see the Crystal Place at Deningrad."

The boat ride through the beautiful canal that coursed through Furni had them all in a much better mood as they reached the mayor’s house. Sorey still had stars in his eyes and Mikleo had forgotten about the Edna incident.

They were led into the house by an entrance through the canal much like in the Inn, it was a basement filled with water where the boats could be stored to dry. It was plain with only a platform and staircase going upstairs, indicating that the room was only used to go and exit the canals. If there was another way to access the house Mikleo had yet to find out because it hadn't been visible from the outside.

The knight left them in the basement for the time it took him to inform the mayor of their arrival then he ushered them upstairs through the narrow staircase. Once they were all gathered inside, the knight slipped out discreetly, going back to his duties.

Mikleo was surprised by the amount of light entering the richly decorated living room the staircase opened to. It was even more decorated than the Inn, with a soft patterned carpet covering the whole floor. There was a plush looking couch against the round wall following its shape. There was a fully furnished kitchen that looked carved into the house in the opposite side and a large round table made with what looked to be the wood of one of the gigantic evergreens from the forest. It was decorated with flowers and fruits. Looking up, Mikleo could see there was a mezzanine too, the edge of it protected by a carefully made wooden barrier.

The mayor stood before them, the round way to another staircase at his back, the stairs carpeted in red. The man wore a rich robe in dark blue hues and if Mikleo had doubt this town’s history was affiliated with Seraphim before they were extinguished the moment he saw just how much the outfit resembled the traditional Seraphim attire.

The man’s gaze lit up as they entered the room, his face long as he cradled a child against his leg.

"I couldn't sit still knowing you'll come. I was just pacing around waiting for you!"

His relieved expression took a hint of paleness when he registered the words that came out of his mouth. He approached Sorey, "Ah, pardon my enthusiasm. The story of your heroic deeds in Tiberoa has reached us here Furni. It's wonderful what you did!"

It was much more attention that Sorey was used too, rubbing at his nape he took a slight step back. Though, Mikleo couldn't tell if his gesture was made consciously or not, he had stepped behind Alisha, allowing her to smile at the mayor.

"It was our honor to help." she bowed her head.

The man seemed pleased by her intervention, then his shoulders sagging again, he looked back at the child trying to make himself scarce on the other side of the room.

"I would like you to listen to my story." He asked tone weary, unsure.

A quick glance exchanged between the members of the group was enough to take a decision. It was obvious that something was troubling the man and that he was somehow asking for their help. Something inside Mikleo quivered as he remembered the town’s predicament with the wolf and the missing girl, hoping that the mayor’s request wouldn't involve something worse.

"Please wait," Rose raised one hand, stopping Sorey before he could agree to anything, "We do have pressing matters to attend. We heard about the missing girl in town and would like to help her before anything."

"Oh thank the lords," the man raised a hand against his chest as he exhaled, "This is precisely the matter I wanted to talk about."

Sorey’s attention was immediately pulled toward the man, "Would you then, tell us more about it?"

With a nod the mayor gestured for them to make themselves comfortable, indicating the couch, "It could take a moment, so please do take a seat."

With some hesitation, Sorey took Lailah’s example and sat on the couch still facing the mayor as Mikleo sat close to him. It was a tight fit but the couch proved enough to fit all of them.

The man nodded at them when he was satisfied that they were all comfortable, then he gestured to the wary child to come closer. His eyes widening in fear, the boy rushed to the mayor and promptly reattached himself to his side. When Lailah let out a little coo, he hid his face further into the mayor’s robes, saddening Lailah who leaned back against the couch.

"This is… my son Theo."

Theo looked about ten year old or younger, Mikleo wasn't as good at guessing a child’s age as he was ancient ruins, he had dark hair and blue eyes, and now that he was closer the resemblance with the mayor became obvious. That he was wary of strangers seemed normal but there was something weird about the child that kept nagging at Mikleo, the way he held himself, the way his eyes loomed over them without really meeting their gaze. This child was much like the children that saw too much from the war, like the children of Hoax.

"A few days ago my son was attacked by a wolf."

A gasp sounded beside Mikleo, Alisha covering her mouth. Now he knew why the child’s movements were a bit odd, he was hiding a wound.

The mayor shook his head, "Ah do not worry too much, and fortunately the injury was not bad. But the thing is he had stopped talking since the incident. Probably from the shock."

From the way he twitched beside him, Mikleo could tell Sorey itched to do something to comfort the child. He turned toward him, his lover’s face compassionate. Was it wrong for him that he could never give Sorey a child, to think how much a good father he would make? It clawed at Mikleo’s heart until he told himself that it was Sorey's choice, that he was Sorey's choice. The clear image of the midwife from Hoax came to mind, her smile as she offered them adoption as beaming into the shadows and Mikleo’s darkness was chased, because he couldn't predict what their future would be made of, only that he would spend it at Sorey's side.

Rose was the one to raise from the couch, to everyone’s astonishment. Under curious glances, she searched through her pouch before fetching out a carefully wrapped, round shaped thing. Mikleo knew too well what it was, his mouth watering at the memory of the rich and creamy taste that filled the bun that Rose was currently unwrapping before the child’s round eyes.

"Are you hungry? Cause I have a mabo curry bun, Sparrow Feather’s special recipe. You won't find one as good. Be grateful because I'm offering you my last one." She declared, putting the snack under Theo's nose.

Nostrils flaring slightly as he smelled the bun, Theo tentatively reached toward it. Rose sat down heavily when he finally held the bun between both hands. Everyone was watching him with baited breath, Theo blushing slightly under the attention.

"Come on! Do you like it?" Rose insisted, encouraging the boy.

Looking only at Rose, Theo took a large bite at the bun his face immediately lighting up. Sorey chuckled when Theo took another bite, chewing happily as he nodded at Rose to make her know how much he liked it. Mikleo covered his mouth as he too wanted to laugh. It was wakening a weird sensation inside him, that Rose was able to cheer him on even a little. In the early stage of their travel, right after meeting her it was the last thing he would have expected from her and she was not the kind to give any goods for free, but now Mikleo knew better after she nearly gave up her life to safe his. Still, it was a sight to see.

Silence settled again while everyone waited for the boy to finish, he seemed more relaxed now, leaving his father’s robe to stand next to him, though he still avoided looking at them. Then, after a quick caress to his son's head the mayor resumed.

"The wolf is becoming more savage, wilder for everyday he is left to roam freely inside the forest. The town needs to go there for wood and food and to trade with Deningrad yet they fear the wolf and barely come out anymore." He sighed deeply, as if the thought was paining him physically.

To Mikleo, that this man cared this much about the town people was the sign that he was a good leader. One that the town could trust for its wellbeing, and Mikleo swore he would do anything he could to help him. Somehow, he was reminding him of Gramps and seeing the man interact with his child only reinforced the impression. Mikleo’s breath caught when Sorey’s fingers brushed his, making him notice just how tense he had been. Shoulders relaxing as he leaned against Sorey, he touched his little finger, hopping that the silent 'I’m fine' would be received as such.

Gramps is okay, Mikleo told himself one last time, remembering to breathe properly. They'll find him soon.

"I see, that's why the warriors from outside were holding so many weapons," Alisha interjected, twisting her hair with the tip of her fingers, "There is a chance that if the threat from the wolf is removed, your son may recover from his shock and talk again."

The mayor shook his head, as his son whimpered and hide in his robe again, "I'm afraid it's more complicated than that."

Mikleo narrowed his eyes, looking closer at the boy he had a sudden feeling that he knew exactly what happened here. The knight in town had said the wolf had killed people, yet he had given him a name. There was the fact that it seemed he wasn't that worried about the little girl that was lost in the forest with a deadly man eating wolf nearby. And this child who only sported a light wound after behind attacked by such wolf.

Exchanging a glance with Sorey, Mikleo was certain they were sharing the same thought.

"The wolf… was it Margaret's?" he asked.

The mayor’s face blanched as Theo’s eyes widened at Mikleo, finally meeting his gaze.

Resigned, the mayor closed his eyes and confessed, "Yes. Margaret found Wiggs when he was just a pup and raised it until recently. You see, Wiggs injured Theo and the following night Margaret went missing. She probably ran away because she feels responsible. Margaret and Theo are very close, best friends since they were little."

This was the easiest conclusion one could make, that Margaret ran away because her wolf injured her best friend. Holding his chin in hand, Mikleo hummed in thought because there was something bothering him with the man’s tale. He couldn't see why Wiggs, though it was a wolf and not a dog, suddenly attacked his owner’s best friend. The town had allowed the wolf to stay with the girl and there was no way the people from here would allow a little girl to keep a pet if it hadn't proved itself inoffensive.

What if…Wiggs somehow turned into a Hellion?

"Well," Rose stood up, "We already agreed to participate in Margaret search so.”

"I'm aware," the mayor responded, finding in himself to grant them a grateful smile, "Still, I don't want you to feel forced. We do have many warriors helping already. Certainly it reassures me more to have Heroes willing to help us."

"We will find Margaret." Sorey asserted, standing too.

The mayor’s complexion seemed better than when they entered, his smile wider now that he had the confirmation that his worries would be appeased, then as if suddenly noticing something, he looked out to the window. Indeed, the room had darkened, the sky outside slowly taking its twilight colors.

"Oh…Sorry about this. I've held you for such a long time without thinking about you at all. With all the warriors in town the Inn is quite full, it would do me great honor if you accept staying at my house for the night as my apology.

"Well…" Alisha started looking around the group.

Edna was already making herself comfortable on the couch cushion, Zaveid shrugged and Lailah seemed to wait for everyone’s decision. Mikleo’s eyes lingered on Sorey, the prospect of staying in the luxurious house a bit weird to him, but after all they’ve had worse. His gaze moved to find Rose as she seemed to have a glaring contest with Theo. She pulled her tongue out with her eyes crossed and Theo chuckled.

"For tonight only. Thank you for offering." Alisha finally said, voice soft as she looked at Rose.

"I hope we are not imposing though." Sorey offered, rubbing at his nape.

"Not at all. I’m glad. Theo is happy too."

Lailah cooed again as Theo attached himself to Rose’s leg, raising wide blue eyes at her, "It seem he has taken a shine to our Rose." She breathed.

"He's been lonely since his mother passed away."

Alisha's voice was a bit too loud, "How about me and Rose go with Theo to prepare dinner?"

The boy was already bouncing toward the kitchen dragging Rose with him.

Mikleo had watched with a fond smile as Rose took the little boy upstairs, his small head lolling back on her shoulder with his inability to fight back sleepiness. That Rose would be so kind and considerate with a child was new and Mikleo couldn't help but be amused by this predicament. His eyes drifted back to Alisha who was twiddling with her fingers while obviously hesitating between following Rose upstairs or letting Theo have her for himself.

Edna was too busy claiming the couch as her own to notice and Mikleo discovered he did have some mischief in him, because teasing Alisha about making her move proved tempting.

He held himself though because Rose had started humming a song, a lullaby to sooth the boy back to sleep and it effectively struck right into Mikleo's guts. The sound of her voice drifted gently from the opened bedroom door filling the living room and everyone quieted to listen, surprised by the song softness.

For Mikleo, hearing those few notes sent his mind into a turmoil, the song too familiar for him. Mikleo knew that song, the exact moment when the notes would go higher to better descend back to something appeasing and comforting. It was a song from his childhood that Mikleo would usually hum to himself when reading or when bathing. A song that never had any lyrics that he thought Gramps or someone else from Elysia had sang to him when he was in infant. A song he hadn't heard for years because it was a remnant of his childhood and he was nearly and adult now.

How Rose did know that song? Was it a popular lullaby?

Mikleo thought he would never hear it again. Even though many years had passed, it woke something inside Mikleo. Soon, his chest was constricted and a shiver ran down his back. The sensation was weird, like he was starting to feel nauseous but not quite. Something that should be nostalgic to him was making him feel sick and it pained Mikleo even more. He couldn't breathe, feeling hot all of sudden. Mikleo needed to get away.

Before he could grasp what was happening, his feet had already carried him through the steps leading to a rooftop terrace. The lullaby still sounding at the back of his mind, Mikleo allowed himself to admire the night sky. It was still early and the last ray of sunshine colored the horizon with a thin line of fire as the first stars lit up. The small town stood at his feet, numerous lit windows looking like immobile lanterns at the surface of a lake.

Here, he could breathe easier, his mind busy taking in the beautiful scenery before him instead of being assaulted with feelings.

He exhaled, his breath fogging in front his mouth. The nights were cold outside so far north and Mikleo's mind went back to that girl alone in the Forest.

"I remember that song."

Sorey’s presence was a nice addition to the scenery, the last tendrils of dread that squeezed his heart went away when Mikleo looked at Sorey’s smile.

"You used to sing it to me as well, when I had nightmares and couldn't go back to sleep."

"Really? I don't remember that." Mikleo remembered quite well but in the dark Sorey couldn't see the red coloring his cheeks, right?

Nudging his elbow playfully, Sorey settled next to him, their sides touching comfortably. As always, Sorey was a literal furnace, his natural warmth seeping into Mikleo’s chilled bones. Following Mikleo's example Sorey looked at the night sky smiling as he too took in the scenery. Mikleo couldn't look at the sky anymore because the town's lights reflected in the green of Sorey's eyes, making them a starry sky on their own, it was entrancing making him unable to tear his eyes away from it. Sorey turning back to look at him broke the spell.

"We are so far away from home. I still can't believe we traveled to the end of the world together!"

Mikleo lips stretched, "We did. Yet it feels like there is so much to see, like we haven't seen half of it."

Sorey chuckled, the sound making Mikleo’s stomach flip pleasantly. When Sorey moved away from him, taking his warmth as he walked closer to the terrace edge, Mikleo couldn't suppress a shiver. He said nothing as Sorey tilted his head, looking higher in the sky.

"The Moon that Never Sets." He said.

Mikleo clenched his jaw, rubbing his arms in an attempt to protect himself from the sudden chill. The air was crisp, biting at his exposed skin.

"It kept being brought back, right? Involving itself in our journey like another companion. It looks quite different from here than in Serdio, don't you think?"

Swallowing the lump that had formed in his throat, Mikleo reluctantly looked at the moon over their head, its blue glow radiated on them, basking Sorey in its light even as a small passing cloud obscured its large looming form. It was true that it's face looked different, the moon never moving nor turning like the other stars, still Mikleo hated it like it was a thorn up his side. He gritted his teeth not wanting to talk about the Moon anymore.

The small cloud passed, and the whole of the Moon shone upon them.

"Ow. My head…it hurts!"

Sorey’s pained gasp sent Mikleo on alert and he immediately reached to steady him as Sorey’s legs wobbled under him. An arm winding around Sorey's back, Mikleo was forced to bear the brunt of his weight. It was too much for him, brow furrowing under the effort to support him, Mikleo had no choice left but to accompany Sorey in his fall. He ended up on his knee, the upper half of Sorey's body resting against his chest. With his trembling hand, Mikleo touched Sorey’s face.

"Sorey!" He called without finding any response.

Sorey’s eyes were closed, his lips a thin line. He was breathing, Mikleo could feel it as he passed his hands over his lips. Knowing that didn't calm him, already reaching in himself to heal Sorey, Mikleo didn't see Lailah coming behind him.

"I heard your cry. Is it a relapse from the poison?"

Mikleo head turned abruptly, violet eyes widened by fear, "Is it possible? I thought his Dragoon Spirit purified him!" it came out louder than he had intended.

"It should have but-"

"I'm…fine." Sorey’s strained voice stopped her.

A sigh of relief left Mikleo’s lips as Sorey’s eyes fluttered open. Lailah’s hands were on Mikleo’s shoulders and he felt them squeeze as he smacked Sorey’s face gently, trying to stop that idiot from smiling like that at him.

"You scared me! Were you pretending to fall into my arms?"

Sorey smile disappeared as he took a serious expression again, "I don't… did I just faint? I must be more tired from the ship travel than I thought."

When he tried to pull himself away from him, Mikleo grabbed Sorey’s arm and brought him back where he was. Sorey lifted his eyes at him, trying the puppy dog look to know why Mikleo just stopped him.

It was Lailah who responded, "Let's bring you back inside. You need rest."

Mikleo squeezed Sorey against his chest one last time, incapable of shaking the bad feeling he had.

Chapter Text

The last thing Sorey wanted was for Mikleo to worry about him. But this was also something Sorey had always been unable to prevent. Mikleo was just like that. And Sorey loved him all the same for it.

Since Mikleo had woken up this morning, though Sorey had stated that he was feeling much better and well rested, he had felt that violet gaze linger on him. That subtle way Mikleo would stay closer to him, his gestures thoughtful as he tried to be discreet with his hovering.

So, yes he had lied, Sorey had been feeling…off of some sort since they had neared Mille Seseau coast and the feeling had intensified the moment they stepped into the Evergreen Forest. Yet, Sorey said nothing because Mikleo would worry even more and Sorey didn't want that. He was sure it would pass, just like his seasickness did.

And, maybe he should listen to Mikleo’s advice and stop overdoing things, rest when he was tired and ask for a break when he had a migraine.

Yes, maybe. After he was certain Margaret was safe.

Entering the dense forest had felt like stepping into another world. The climate was less mild than in Furni, the air colder and crisp in the after dawn hours. Sorey's sight was filled with a plethora of evergreens from all sizes and ages, some old and ancient ones looked nearly black as they towered over the others filtering the sun rays. Somehow it was nothing like the Mabinogio forest yet, for Sorey it felt like home.

This smell of pine and resin was deeply familiar and the humid moss giving under his boots was like walking on the Elysia slope. If Sorey closed his eyes, he could almost hear the wind against the bare cliff rocks and then hear the distant bleating of the goats. He smiled contentedly, a little blissful sigh drawing from his lips.

Zaveid's yelp brought him out of his musing, Sorey losing his train of thought focused back on the scene before him.

Zaveid was crouched nursing a sore spot on his back, Edna holding her umbrella in front of her, readying it for another strike if necessary.

"Chose the way, we don't have all day,"

Ah, Edna had been growing impatient lately. To be honest, Sorey would be impatient too if his brother was held by a criminal.

He noticed that the group had reached a crossroad without being able to remember when they stopped to watch Zaveid. Sorey looked around, eyes stopping on the road that looked the most used, trees growing thinner as the road became rockier, looping around a slope and disappearing behind more mountains towering over the forest. There was another path zigzagging between trees and bushes, but it was like something was pulling at Sorey’s chest, telling him to go toward the larger road.

Reluctantly, Sorey’s gaze fell back on Zaveid as he let go of the bushes he had been inspecting to stand and glare at Edna, hissing as it pulled on his sore spot. Edna did strike quite hard.

"I'm just trying that scouting thing humans do, you know." He made a dismissive gesture with his hand, "Giving a fair fight to those mercenaries without my natural talent, not that I'm not the best at scouting either-" Zaveid began.

Never once did Edna look back at him, ignoring his complain.

"Rose is better at that than you."

Edna pointed at the direction Rose, Lailah and Alisha were already taking, walking on the dirt path between the trees." There are wolf's tracks on this path!" Rose called.

Sorey felt a little defeated that they hadn't taken the mountainous path, eyes once again going to look over the slope ending the visible part of that road.

Beaten, Zaveid’s shoulders sagged though he had a smile lingering at the corner of his lips "Guess I'm reading the wind then."

Honestly, Sorey had trouble understanding why he hadn't started by that. He wanted to win, teach those mercenaries a lesson, even if he did admit that using magic was cheating. Well, those men had looked shady and he didn't trust them with a child.

It took Zaveid a single windstep to leave Edna, Sorey and Mikleo behind in the dust. Edna let out a huge exaggerated sigh as she proceeded to follow him. Mikleo moved too but stopped himself when he noticed Sorey's slowness and hesitancy.

"Are you feeling all right? Do you need to take a break?"

Ah, there was Mikleo's concern, "I'm full of energy,"

Sorey pumped his fist in the air in emphasis but Mikleo raised a brow, arms crossing over his chest not buying his sudden fake enthusiasm. Embarrassed that Mikleo clearly saw through him Sorey rubbed at his nape. His only choice left was to be honest and let Mikleo know about his feeling.

 "I…It's this place. It feels so nice. It reminds me of home and I think I was daydreaming a bit and there is also," he nodded at the road, brow furrowing as he tried to understand the sensation in his chest, "something telling me to follow the other road."

Mikleo was on him the next second, holding his arm and Sorey almost regretted telling him about his feeling, "Voices, again?"

Sorey shook his head, smiling sadly because yes there was no way Mikleo was still not thinking about those weird voices he heard, "No, nothing like that. Just a feeling."

The way Mikleo bit into his lip told Sorey that he had not reassured his lover. How could he do than when he wasn't sure about anything himself? There was one thing prevailing on his mind though, it was the way those bitten lips reddened under Mikleo's teeth. It made them inviting and that maybe by kissing them, Sorey would ease Mikleo’s worry.

He leaned down, driven by his instincts and kissed Mikleo's lips as they instinctively responded, moving under his. It was nothing but a chaste kiss, just enough to convey that reassurance Sorey wanted to give. Mikleo's smile filled with affection as he took his hand, rushing to follow after the rest of the group.

"They aren't even waiting for us." He grumbled, though Sorey heard amusement in his tone.

It made him smile, knowing that he managed to win over Mikleo's worry just this time. He could feel his steps growing lighter as he followed Mikleo's pull, hand in his. Quickly they caught up to the girls and the forest silence was filled with sound again of animated chatter between Lailah and Rose about this and that. Sorey hadn't the mind to participate, only listening vaguely to what was being discussed. Mikleo's hand was in his and it was all he could really feel at the moment.

The discussion stopped when they spotted Zaveid waiting for them in the middle of the pathway, fingers running on the seam of his hat while his other hand was raised to ask for silence.

"There is a child, in a clearing right after the next cluster of bushes." He told them, voice low, "But they are agitated and muttering, we must be careful or we might frighten them." he had grown serious all of sudden which told Sorey that the child he felt must really be distraught.

Looking toward the cluster of bushes Zaveid mentioned, Sorey swore he could almost touch the tension in there. Fingers playing idly with the feather at the end of his sword he took a careful step closer.

"I think I'll go first not to overwhelm the child."

They all hummed in agreement. It was a given that if someone could win over the child it was Sorey with his gentle smile and warm green eyes.

Lailah folded her hand in front of herself, "Poor Margaret, I hope she's all right."

Though Zaveid never mentioned it was her, there was no doubt that a child alone so deep into the forest could be anyone else. But that she was frightened and agitated was something to worry about.

Sorey was the first to step in the clearing knowing the others will follow him at a reasonable distance. It felt like lifting a curtain to suddenly being hit by the sun, bright after hours into the dark forest where the tree gave way to a bared clearing, Sorey squinting his to adjust his sight. His feet come in contact with dry soil, some left over frost glinting on the few scattered rocks and bushes. Then his eyes opened to his surroundings. There indeed was a child not older than Theo pacing nervously in the middle, all covered in warm cloth and furs. It was obviously Margaret, her tiny voice muttering unintelligible things.

She turned abruptly toward him as she heard him step on dry grass, brown eyes widening comically when she spotted the group a few feet behind him. Sorey held his hands up, trying to make his stance as nonthreatening as possible while he stepped closer.

"Hey, Margaret?" he tried.

As if she was wind stepping herself, the girl bolted before anyone could react disappearing between the bushes and trees. Sorey winced, already feeling Edna's teasing forming at the tip of her tongue.

"H-help! Someone help!"

The call was from an adult voice, followed by the crushing of bushes as a positively terrified mercenary barged into the clearing. The man looked like he had seen better days, face haggard, weaponless and holding his palm over his torn sleeves as dark blood flowed between his fingers.

He quickly asserted the situation, taking the time to regain his breathing and looked between each member of the Dragoon Squad, a name Edna kept using for them because Mikleo despised it and that Sorey had started to adopt.

"Good luck with that beast!"

The mercenary cried as he ran past them back toward the road.

The howl that followed left no mystery regarding the beast he was talking about. Emerging from the forest, following the hole in the vegetation the man left behind him, an enormous white wolf, fur ruffled in threat stopped before them. As tall as Zaveid and as large as a cow the wolf stood at the other end of the clearing, its oversized paw digging large gashes into the dirt as it prepared to leap. Its mouth was full of white teeth glistening with dribbling spit as it snarled and growled menacingly. Its deep yellow eyes had zeroed right on Sorey.

Sorey didn't wait for the gigantic wolf to pounce before taking his weapon in hand. His Dragoon spirit kept chanting in his pouch, vibrating with the wolf’s malevolence.

"This is Wiggs?!" Mikleo exclaimed

"So it was a Hellion after all," Alisha's sigh voiced everyone’s thought.

While Sorey and the wolf sized each other up, three other mercenaries had rounded the clearing filling the quiet place with rambunctious noises and war cries. The wolf’s stance changed, no longer focusing only on Sorey. It looked everywhere, unable to focus on one person at a time, its tails lowering and its back hunched as his growling intensified. If anything, it looked even more dangerous now than just before with only Sorey as a potential adversary.

"He is mine! I'll kill it and get the prize!"

It was the same man with the axe that taunted Zaveid, now holding the other mercenaries back as they sized each other up. Sorey had never felt the need to roll his eyes this much.

"I was here first!" cried another one.

Did they not realize that they were facing a deadly gigantic wolf that could probably behead one of them with a single snap of its jaws?

"Stop it!"

The child’s voice, rising above the mercenaries bickering shut them up. They all stood there when Margaret ran back toward the wolf, Sorey instinctively reaching to stop her before he noticed the slight change in the wolf’s stance, yellow eyes lingering on the girl and growl reducing to a whimper.

He stopped breathing as she held up her arms as if protecting the beast behind her tiny body. One of the men that Sorey finally recognized as the same Furni's resident knight they met before stepped up looking pale and sweaty.

"Margaret, are you all right?" he asked breathlessly.

But Margaret ignored him entirely as she took a deep breath and started to talk as loud as she can, "Listen everybody! It was not Wiggs fault! It was another beast that attacked Theo!"

"Margaret, leave Wiggs. He-he is dangerous." The knight went on.

Margaret was trembling, not in fear but in rage her fist balling as she glared at the knight, "No way Harris! Wiggs protected Theo! So I'll protect Wiggs this time! "Then breathing though her nose as tears filled her eyes, "Please. Don't kill Wiggs." She pleaded.

"Are we listening to a child? Why aren't we attacking! Someone grab the kid" protested the man with the axe again.

"Shut up beard face!" This man didn't know Edna, he would never had anticipated what was coming for him. "If the girl wants to talk you listen."

Sorey winced in sympathy, watching Edna close her umbrella her face hardening as the man glared at her.

"What did you call me?" the man growled, spit falling on his beard.

"Are you deaf on top of being ugly? How unlucky you are."

Sorey couldn't help it but despite the situation, his shoulders were shaking with repressed laughter. Mikleo's hand covering his mouth as he refused to look at Edna made Sorey know he was sharing the sentiment. Lailah’s mouth was hanging open in outrage because truly she couldn't encourage Edna but the mirth in her eyes was genuine as she was too enjoying herself. Still no one rose to stop Edna.

Alisha, Rose and Zaveid had already sided Edna before the man started to swing his axe at her.

"You'll regret your word, brat!"

"The wolf!"

In the confusion started by Edna and beard face's fight, Wiggs and Margaret had escaped the mercenary's vigilance. The next events happened so quickly that Sorey almost wondered if they all had a hallucination. It was indeed hard to believe it as the wolf dropped low for the girl to grab at its fur and hop on its back, holding on tightly as the wolf jumped on beard face's unprepared back and disappeared into the dark depth of the forest with Margaret mounting it like a horse.

Quickly recovering from the wolf stepping on him, beard face sputtered and roared as he rose up, only to be stopped by Edna's earth lance right before his foot,

"Follow the wolf! We'll hold them back." then glaring at Sorey over her shoulders she said, "You'd better purify Wiggs. Don't make Margaret cry."

Sorey smiled as he nodded, before rushing after Wiggs into the forest, Mikleo and Lailah on his heels.

The wolf was easier to follow because in his desperation to bring Margaret away from the mercenaries and as fast as he could Wiggs didn't care about leaving tracks. Crushed branches and bushes littered the forest where it went away from the dirt path and huge traces of claws had dug into the dirt when it had stayed on the road.

"That Hellion…it's acting weird. Did it retain some sense of self?" Mikleo asked, as they trotted.

Holding her dress as she stepped over debris of a rotten trunk, Lailah's face fell as she thought about her answer. Sorey had to admit he was curious too. Wiggs was a beast there was no discussing on that, and they had dealt with hellionised beasts before, violent, angry, unable to distinguish friends from foes and changed beyond recognition but Wiggs seemed more intelligent, his need to protect Margaret stronger than the malevolence. It gave Sorey hopes that he wasn't too far gone.

They had met Hellions like that before, able to remain themselves though they were consumed by their darkest thought, need for strength, power, vengeance…blinded to the world around them and the suffering they were causing. They all had either been human or seraphim, all had held a Dragoon spirit. Sorey was certain there was a link, though there were too many missing pieces in this puzzle and conjectures would lead nowhere.

"After all, wasn't there a time where Hellions were intelligent and ruled this earth?" Mikleo insisted when Lailah didn't give an answer.

This seemed to add more weight on Lailah shoulders, she hummed while thinking, and then after some seconds of silence she answered.

"I wouldn't know, I'm not that old. I only know what I was told." She breathed, the muscle in her jaw pulled taunt.

Though even Sorey could tell she wasn't telling everything she knew, she was telling the truth and that was enough for him.

"We are running into more mystery!"

There was some fun in finding more puzzles to resolve because it involved more exploration to do and more people to meet. Sorey was already feeling enthusiasm piercing over the dark cloud that had smothered his heart lately. It was a good feeling and he couldn't refrain from smiling, knowing that he would find the truth.

"At least someone is happy." Lailah commented

"Blessed are the idiots, for they are the happiest people on earth." Mikleo added while chuckling under his breath.

Sorey made a protesting noise with his throat, flinching his face but didn't voice it because standing alert was more important than listening to Mikleo's nagging. There was something that Sorey was certain as they trotted after the wolf, it was that with his charge the wolf couldn't have been able to go far and they will soon fall on it.

And as always, his instincts proved him right as the forest suddenly became thicker around them. They stopped before a thicket whose bushes obviously had been breached recently, if the huge round hole whose thorny sides were full of white fur was any indication.

The worried voice of a child filtering through left no more doubt.

 Exchanging glances, Sorey and Mikleo readied their weapons, Lailah sliding close to them as they entered the hole.

The panting wolf was standing beside the frantic child desperately trying to calm the beast down as it growled, its fur standing on its back. They were both standing before a dead tree whose trunk had fallen against another stronger and larger one; branches had been dragged and put over it as if to make a shelter against winds and rain. It looked like a tiny den and Sorey was positive Margaret had been the one to make it.

The wolf howled at their approach, Margaret reacting immediately she promptly stood between them and the snarling beast.

"Go home!" She screamed at them, tiny fist balled at her side, "Wigg’s not bad! Go home!"

Sorey hesitated, the wolf was not advancing, eyes on the girl but he was still menacing, growling a showing deadly fangs. Lailah nodded at him, gentle almond green eyes turning softer as she looked back at the child. She crouched down, bringing herself to Margaret’s height, her dress pooling around her legs. She extended a hand, inviting but careful not to put any pressure on the child.

"We met Theo. He is worried about you, you know." She said voice calm and steady.

Margaret’s eyes widened, she couldn't hide the trembling racking her body anymore. Sorey’s hand squeezed around his sword handle, he couldn't believe adults from town had let the situation go this out of hand. She may look strong, protecting her friends with all her strength and will but they all could see how cold, how tired she was. This forest was no place for a child her age.

"Theo is…?" She breathed, looking like she couldn't believe Lailah’s words.

It was understandable that Margaret had trouble trusting adults, they had done nothing but threaten Wiggs after all, and Sorey didn't remember any of the mercenaries offering to bring the girl back home. They would have killed the wolf right in front of her. Also… there was something about her that reminded Sorey strongly of himself. He was so much like her when he was her age, letting his adventurous soul go wild without realizing that he was worrying others. His gaze drifted to Mikleo as he fiddled with his earing and Sorey wondered if Theo was Margaret's Mikleo.

He sighed through his nose, having a better understanding about Margaret's feelings.

"Lailah's saying the truth," he told her hand on his heart, "Theo had stopped talking since you disappeared. That's because he cares so much about you."

Now Sorey could understand why the other child was worried to the point of losing his voice, he must have seen the whole ordeal, with his father prioritizing the town’s safety and the wolf problem removal before actually caring for Margaret. There was some bitter taste on Sorey's tongue. He could understand that the town’s safety was important and it was not his place to discuss the mayor’s handling of the situation but he wasn't pleased with it nonetheless. Someone like Gramps would have ensured that both the town and the child were safe.

Margaret’s body relaxed and Wiggs made a distressed whine when she took a step closer to Lailah.

 "Theo cares that much about me?" She inquired, voice breaking as tears threatened to fall.

It was then Sorey remembered how despite her tough front she was just a child who wouldn't grasp the full consequence of what she did. He wanted to help her even more. He wanted to help her protect her friend.

Opening her arms just a little more in an inviting gesture, Lailah nodded, "I think…Theo needs you. Won't you come home with us?"

Margaret stepped closer again, nearly into Lailah's embrace but then looked over her shoulders where Wiggs was still growling menacingly though his stance seemed to be protective rather than aggressive as he was slowly moving back toward the makeshift shelter.

"But…" she said, lips trembling. "What about Wiggs? They are gonna kill him if I don't protect him."

"That right. We can't let that beast wander freely." Came the voice behind them.

Out of breath and missing his helmet, the town's knight Harris emerged from the thorny corpse of bushes. Sorey turned to face him, instinctively putting himself between then man and the child.

Ignoring Sorey, Harris called the girl, "Come over here, Margaret. It's too late for Wiggs."

When Margaret’s eyes widened in fear again, Harris moved surprisingly quickly, trying to go past Sorey and grab for Margaret while Mikleo grabbed his arm to stop him. The wolf reacted faster than anyone could predict. There was only the sound of Margaret’s protest before it jumped, using a tree trunk to take momentum and land on Harris, the man screamed as his back hit the ground.

Lailah’s arms had closed around Margaret, taking her out of the way as she encouraged, "You can purify him, Sorey!"

A surge of water landed right on the wolf flank, effectively pushing it away from the knight just before the wolf’s jaw closed around his arm, the man scared to death remained inert, sobbing as Sorey stepped over him going after the wolf.

Margaret’s crying could be heard over the wolf growls and snarl and Sorey had to reassure her, "We won't kill him, it's a promise." Then lower, turning to Mikleo, "But I can't guaranty we won't rough him up a bit." They exchanged a knowing smile

Mikleo moved swiftly all graceful, his staff twirling between his hands. The forest ground lit up under his feet as the mana reacted to his call. Eyes closed in concentration he could only feel Sorey and the wolf move around him, trusting his lover to keep the beast from interrupting his arte.

It took only a few seconds for the wolf to recover from Mikleo's initial attack before trying to go at him. Sorey’s sword struck him hard into the side of his face diverting his attention. Sorey had anticipated the wolf’s next move holding his sword up. Powerful jaws full of sharp fangs closed around the sturdy wood of Sorey's ceremonial sword, the only thing protecting his neck from being bitten into. It made dents in the wood, making Sorey flinch at his favorite weapon’s mistreatment.

The wolf tried to pull away, his jerking movement making Sorey gasp in surprise. But Sorey was holding it, brows furrowed and sweat pooling on his forehead, the muscles on his arms bulging as he pushed the wolf away, letting out a war cry.

The fact that Margaret had stopped crying, the sound of Lailah’s shushing and reassurance like a balm against the pounding of his blood resonating in his ears, filled Sorey with confidence. She believed in him, in them, trusting them to save her friend.

The wolf whined again, working his jaw to ease the pain Sorey inflicted. He didn’t see Mikleo’s ice shears come, the arte landing in its shoulder tearing into the white of its fur and turning to a rusty color where the skin was broken. The wolf was already panting hard, drooling and its movements were growing clumsy, imprecise. It seemed its last jump on Harris had taken its remaining strength. It was exhausted. Since when had it been running away from the mercenaries?

Having grown up in the wilder part of Serdio, Sorey knew that a tired and corned beast was even more dangerous even though it meant it won't take long to finish the wolf it wasn't the moment to take victory for granted and lower his guard.

Mikleo's staff struck the wolf’s back paws, one of them faltering. The wolf seemed to have trouble dealing with their combined attack with Mikleo striking from behind and Sorey up front. That last strike had him focus its attention fully on Mikleo, giving a snap of its tail as it tried to catch Mikleo. It was the wolf’s mistake as it gave Sorey the tome to concentrate his own mana in his non-dominant hand.

He had been itching to test the martial arte Prince Sergei taught him before they departed from Tiberoa, finally able to use it at full power. A strange heat, slowly becoming familiar as he grew used to it pooled on the palm of his hand, Sorey retreating back his arm like he was about to throw a punch. His other hand gripped firmly on his sword as a war cry rumbled from his chest. Palm open, Sorey guided all that strength toward the wolf.

"Lion's Howl!"

His palm slammed full force against the beast's bust. The blast of energy resulting from the mana concentrated on his hand astonishingly took form, appearing like a misty lion's head. The wolf was promptly taken down, whining loudly and painfully as it landed hard on the ground. Sorey winced, almost feeling the pain he just inflicted on Wiggs.

Sorey shook his hand, dissipating the residual feeling of ants crawling all over his skin as he approached the still whining and moaning beast, it was still breathing and growling weakly, staring at him with maddened yellow eyes, unable to stand.

"Please!" Margaret pleaded again.

Sorey turned toward her, meeting Mikleo's gaze while the other covered his mouth with his hand. He smiled gently, promising silently one last time before he crouched down facing the wolf’s shoulder.

The fur felt coarse even under Sorey's gloved fingers while he stroked it with a steady motion, looking at Wiggs right in the eyes as he called upon his Dragoon's spirit power.

"It's okay. You're safe now."

The chanting in his head became stronger, his mind resonating with the purifying song Sorey closed his eyes, knowing just how blinding the resulting light would be. It filtered through his eyelids and he smiled, feeling the wolf shape change under his hand.

"W-Wiggs!"

And then he heard Margaret call, her voice finally devoid of tears, full of hope and disbelief. Sorey opened his eyes, Mikleo’s hand landing on his shoulder as he took in the brown, golden specked eyes of a small white furred wolf-dog looking back at him. His fingers dug under the wolf’s ear, scratching. Sorey laughed when the wolf’s tongue lolled out of his mouth as he leaned on Sorey’s scratching.

"W-Wiggs is himself again. What-That was an incredible power."

Harris sounded winded, but he was okay. His own disbelief was coating his voice and when Sorey turned to look back at him there was a marvel in his eyes, like he had just witnessed a Miracle and was hesitating between staying where he was and kneeling before Sorey.

Sorey made a face, because it was just the kind of attention he wanted to avoid. Fortunately he had good friends and it was at that moment that the other members of this weird little group of friends he had made came out of the bushes.

Zaveid was scratching at his chest looking a little disheveled but his honey eyes turned pleased when Wiggs stood back on his paw, size now reaching Sorey's hips.

"Wiggs!" Margaret called again rushing to hug her friend.

The wolf-dog barked happily, accepting his caretaker’s arms as they closed around him.

"That certainly looks like an improvement." Zaveid commented.

 "The White Silver Dragoon was able to purify the malevolence damaging Wiggs’ soul." Alisha breathed out of relief, clasping her hand in a silent prayer.

Margaret couldn't look happier and Wiggs seemed okay too, barking and rubbing at Margaret’s chest when he wasn't bouncing in place asking to play. Sorey couldn't resist taking a glance at Edna. She had been the one to stand the most vehemently to Margaret’s defense giving him the time necessary to work the magic of purification. Sorey was starting to feel tired too, headache already assaulting him but he was glad because the corner of Edna's lips lifted up, even if it was for a second before she resumed her bored expression.

Lailah leaned down toward the beaming child, "Margaret. Go back to Theo and show him you both are fine. I'm pawsitive that Wiggs can go back with you now."

Her smoldering gaze turned toward Harris as the little girl giggled at her silly pun. The knight quickly nodded then, eyes wide.

"Y-yes. It's seems he won't harm people anymore." He nearly squealed, but then gathered himself after taking a breath." If anything happens, I'll take responsibility." He added more seriously.

There was some fondness in his expression as he looked at Margaret, encouraging Sorey to trust in his words. Harris got closer to Margaret, extending a hand. Margaret glanced at the hand hesitating, eyes darting between Sorey and Lailah.

"It will be for the best, for both Margaret and Theo. Are you ready to go home now, Margaret? Everybody’s worried about you." Harris insisted, nodding at Sorey.

Sorey could believe that too, even if it seemed the town's people didn't make huge effort to alleviate that worry. He smiled at the girl, watching as her expression smoothed, making her look more like the child she was.

"Yes."

 Margaret stopped her playing with Wiggs for a moment to answer. Reluctantly leaving her wolf-dog she turned toward Harris. But then she stopped right in front of Sorey looking up from a smaller height to meet his eyes. She had a strong determination in them, making Sorey want to chuckle again in response as he was now certain that everything would be fine for her.

"Thank you mister!" She nearly screamed her gratefulness filtering though her embarrassment.

She didn't leave any time for Sorey to respond that she was already running out of the thicket, Wiggs following happily behind her. Harris’ face blanched as he sighed before he remembered he was supposed to bring her back, he quickly bowed at them before rushing after her, Sorey allowing himself to finally chuckle as he heard his anxious calls.

"Wait-Ah, Margaret! Wait for me!"

Sorey’s laugh proved contagious as everyone let out chuckles and giggles of their own relief passing between each member of the Dragoon squad. It seemed everything was in order now but Sorey couldn’t help thinking that Margaret would give Harris more grey hairs than the man would like too.

"Now I'm more worried about Harris' wellbeing than Margaret's," Rose commented, voicing everyone’s concern.

"Maybe now that's settled, we could actually proceed and head to Deningrad?" Edna grumbled, this time really getting bored.

Sorey was a bit hesitant, part of him wanting to make sure Margaret would make Theo speak again but Edna had a point, they had lost precious time wandering into the forest. They should have reached Deningrad hours ago.

"Sure, let Zaveid lead the way." Sorey invited.

"Gladly." Zaveid answered as they headed out of the thicket.

There was some grimacing, mostly on the girls part, nonetheless everyone resumed on traveling toward Deningrad.

Though Margaret's situation had occupied most of his mind, Sorey’s heart had longed to see Mille Seseau’s capital city as soon as possible. Now that the girl was safe, Sorey’s mind was free to peruse all the wonder they would get to see. His pounding headache was quickly forgotten in favor of excitement. Celestial Record open in his hand as they walked back to the mountainous looking road Sorey was already recounting legends and the place’s history.

Mikleo was listening carefully, answering with both words and hands as Sorey exposed the wonder they were about to see, Alisha joining them from time to time but generally leaving them be, preferring to converse with Lailah and Rose.

Sorey's eyes were nearly shining as his he looked at images about the Crystal Palace, passing the book for the others to see while he imagined the cobblestone streets and the blue roofed houses, the colored stained glass that were said to be hanging in the streets casting reflections on the snow. And there was all that crystal too, alternating between shades of blues and white leaning up the mountain, covering the ground and growing in a pike toward the sky at it encased the Deningrad Palace.

He was brimming with the need to see all of this with his own eyes, feel the atmosphere there, smell the all the odors… but most of all he would finally be able to prove to Mikleo that the Celestial Record author's theory about the Crystal being remnant of Seraphim magic could only be the truth.

"At least this time, they are actually moving forward." Edna grumbled again, hiding herself behind her umbrella.

But just as the words left her mouth the group stopped when Zaveid turned to look at Rose lingering behind. The glare she sent told Sorey that she was silently damning Rose for stopping, delaying them yet again.

"That knight forgot to pay us!" Rose exclaimed, suddenly throwing her hands up

Both Edna and Alisha groaned, "We can go fetch the reward later. We'll eventually have to come back to Furni." Lailah tried to reassure her.

When Sorey looked at Rose, she held back his gaze before her eyes slowly drifted to Mikleo. She looked oddly calm while she seemed to think about something and it bothered Sorey. She had sounded so betrayed when she had made her realization a few seconds before. But then now she was looking around actually feeling his gaze and Sorey took a step closer because there was obviously something wrong that she wouldn't tell.

"You should go ahead." She said, gesturing to the road.

"There is no need to-" Alisha tried before being interrupted,

"No, I just remembered I have some errand to do. Not related to that I swear. But that's something I need to do anyway. I won't stop those two as impatient as they are to visit Deningrad."

Alisha bit her lips, hugging her arm as it seemed she was actually hurt by Rose’s rebuttal. She was about to reply when Rose suddenly slid down the slope on the side of the road. Alisha’s face changed then, taking a worried expression. Mikleo was frowning at Rose, not like he was disapproving at her attitude but like he was thinking hard about something.

Sorey knew he was not the only one finding Rose’s behavior to be unusual. He wanted to say something, do something, anything that could help her.

"Hey wait!" Sorey called after her, "At least give us some explanation!"

Rose slid along the slope until she reached a lower part of the road below, and then she turned back avoiding their eyes as she opened her mouth to speak while shaking her head.

"Sorry but it's something I have to do alone." She smiled but Sorey could tell it didn't reach her eyes," I'll catch up with you soon. Don't forget to find information about Lunarre for me, okay?"

There was no time to protest or try to stop her; she gave them a quick wave of her hand before disappeared from sight, swallowed back by the forest. Rose left them there, Alisha looking a little dejected and betrayed with her fist clenching and unclenching as she tried to figure out what was in Rose’s mind. Sorey wanted to reassure her, but he was left in the dark too, confused by Rose’s comportment. His eyes searched for Mikleo's, finding recognition in those violet depths.

"She was like that when we were stranded near Fueno." Mikleo mused, hand rising to cover his mouth, "For a while she had grown distant and seemed lost in her thoughts."

Their companions heard and turned to him, Alisha stepping near him as she asked "Was she? Do you think something’s bothering her? Why wouldn't she tell us? Aren't we her friends?"

Mikleo's gaze was soft and understanding on Alisha and he patiently waited for her to finish her questioning before answering, "I wouldn't know either." he shrugged.

Alisha's mouth snapped shut, her head lowering with embarrassment when she realized her display of too much emotion. Sorey's hand landed on her shoulder in a comforting gesture.

"Well, I suppose we all need our alone time. Why don't we take her advice and wait for her in Deningrad?"

Alisha smiled back at him seemingly pleased by his words but Sorey saw how Mikleo's expression soured as he looked one last time in Rose's general direction. There was distrust in his expression. Mikleo always had trouble fully trusting anyone; even their friends and Sorey could tell that Rose’s departure had made Mikleo wary of her. She would have to work hard to win back Mikleo's trust and it pained Sorey somehow. He had confidence that whatever Rose was doing if it couldn't involve them in it then it was because she absolutely needed to do it alone and even though she was a mercenary slash assassin she had a good heart and he knew he could trust her.

Lailah and Edna were already moving ahead, leading the way as the rest of the group followed quietly. Lailah started humming a tune, filling the silence that was settling over the group.

"Now that we are at it," Zaveid began, stopping in his tracks.

When the group turned back toward him to listen to what he had to say, he started moving from foot to foot, looking at the forest behind his shoulder. Sorey noticed how he hesitated before talking, his eyes crinkling before he let out a sigh, finger scratching his chin.

"I remember I have something to do too."

"You are not going to tell us what either?" Edna glared, twirling her umbrella.

Zaveid raised his hands in surrender, "Just someone I promised to visit once I was back here. You don't need to come with me and give Lunarre a chance to act on whatever scheme he is pulling."

 Rolling her eyes, Edna turned away from him, "A chance you remembered one of your promises."

"Ah, I know you'll all miss me but I'll be back soon."

Pulling on Sorey's arm, Lailah prevented him from answering," We'll see you later!" She threw out waving happily while forcing Sorey back onto the road.

Zaveid was left behind, watching the other's retreating back as no one wanted to acknowledge that he would be missed.

Chapter Text

It was colder here inside of the valley. Encased between mountains, any village settled there had to cope with the lack of sun, its warm rays reaching past the tall peaks only a few hours a day. Plains and crop fields, away from the protection of the forest were exposed to the harsh northern winds and though it was barely the middle of autumn a thin layer of snow creaked under Rose's boots.

 Rose wondered why humans had even tried to live there, knowing that their living conditions would be hard and unforgiving. Sometimes she could admire their resilience, admire the path they would take just to live freely, to have a place to call home.

But even though the memories flooding her mind, the visions that had brought her here weren't truly hers, she felt like she had been the one taking that away from them.

She lifted her head, eyes roaming through the scattered ruin of a town, crumbled walls covered by a blanket of snow. Her hand touched the engraved rock marking the town entrance, the cold seeping into her ungloved fingers making her shiver. Rose didn't even need to look at the carving, she refused to.

A gust of wind ruffled through her hair, and she lifted her scarf to cover her nose protecting herself from the cold. She must have looked like a sore spot from afar, a head full of red hair against grey stone, white snow and scorched remnant of whatever materials were used to make those houses.

Rose’s breath caught in her throat when a memory forced her to forget about the cold. It was almost like she could feel the heat of the blaze into her soul, the snow under her foot replaced by a spilling of red not unlike her hair.

Usually, the memories Rose experienced were those of her namesake, the first Black Dragoon. The woman's will still the strongest after eleven thousand years. Even in death as she made sure those carrying her memories would also carry her duty.

But as Rose slowly stepped further into the dilapidated town, her namesake’s eyes weren't those she was seeing through.

Screams echoed around her, the smell of iron and fire pungent in the air as she watched through another's eyes while people run out of their burning home to be slaughtered one after the other. She could feel emotions that weren't hers, or rather the lack of as the owner of those memories watched the massacre, and Rose realized that she could feel her wings on her shoulders moving with her movement as one of her daggers caught a woman that had tried to escape.

Her feet wobbled under her, bile rising into her throat as the feelings that weren't hers changed, a prick of remorse finding her heart.

It cleared the memories away and Rose was in the present again.

"I'm here mother."

Rose’s gaze shifted abruptly toward the voice, her eyes widening because she certainly didn't expect to find someone here.

There was a young looking woman kneeling before a monolith that definitely wasn't there back when…

The woman’s hands were clutched before her in a prayer, the snow making wet spots on her dark blue dress. She put a stray strand of her short black her behind her ear. There was a gentle looking blond woman watching over her, wearing a completely different attire of white pants and a petticoat with a red scarf. Two other women in armor sided them, a knobby looking tree embroidered in both their short capes. Rose’s finger instinctively went to her dagger when she saw their swords.

"Mother, it's been a while since the tragic day I lost my sight."

The woman continued, Rose allowing herself to relax when neither the guards nor the women seemed to pay her any attention. Instead Rose stayed where she was, listening to her.

"I'm able to see today, thanks to the love of many people like Ian here."

She rose from her kneeling position and Rose’s breath hitched when she met her unseeing grey eyes as she turned toward the gentle looking woman. Ian’s back was turned toward Rose but the dip of her head was enough to guess she must be blushing.

The blind woman returned to the monolith, bowing before the stone, "May the Divine Tree bless all the victims of the tragedy."

Her words felt like a sharp blade sinking into Rose's flesh, because she knew, she saw it all happen.

"Is there someone here?"

The blind woman finally turned toward Rose, her companions following her unseeing gaze toward her. The guards were immediately in front of her, reaching for their swords while Ian grabbed her arm.

Flinching, Rose’s finger fiddled with the bead in her hair, "I didn't mean to surprise you."

As if she could sense Rose's embarrassment, the blind woman slowly shook her head, "Maybe telling us who you are will help with trusting your words in that."

Something in her suggestion sounded off with Rose, like the woman was sensing something coming from her. Rose knew she had never been able to completely wash the smell of blood from her hands.

"I'm just a traveler, nothing to be alarmed of." She answered, putting her hands up in a gesture of peace.

The blind woman seemed to accept her answer because her features visibly changed to something softer, the corner of her lips rising ever so slightly. She whispered something at her guards and nodded at them. The guards, though with a bit of hesitation returned to her side, hands away from their swords. From behind her, Ian still glared daggers at Rose.

That glare only made Rose want to tease Ian, so she stepped closer to the monolith, right beside the blind woman. Rose heard the outraged gasp Ian let out but her enjoyment was cut short when she saw the engraving covering the smooth surface of the stone.

Names. So many names written on it.

"There are people of Camlann and my mother sleeping here. Are you here to visit the grave too?"

A grave. That’s what it was. Rose would have thought that the whole town was a grave anyway but she wasn't about to say that out loud.

"I guess so." She answered before thinking better about it.

"Then you know about Camlann?" Her question came out strangely, like she was caught up between being surprised and being sorry.

"Sister Sirel, please, speaking with a stranger of those times isn't safe." Ian said, eyes never leaving Rose.

Sirel patted Ian’s hand in a reassuring gesture. Rose turned looking at the ruin around them once more. The rubbles were whole, burning again and she was clutching something firmly, something sticky between her gloved fingers. She looked at the man kneeling before her, the point of her dagger digging into his throat. There was fear and nothing else in his eyes. Blood was already flowing from many points in his broken armor, his hair matted to his forehead.

"Where is Princess Etoile?"

Her mouth formed the words but it wasn't her talking, it was a man voice, a voice she heard before. Firm as he had taught her how to fight with that voice. Laughing as he had been joking with the other with that voice. Weary as he had rambled after drinking too much using the same voice. Reassuring as he had often comforted her with that voice. Though with the years the shape of his face had blurred in her own memories, she could never forget Brad's voice.

The knight eyes lit up then, a last glimmer of strength, "I-I will never tell you." he breathed.

There was a dark flame then, Brad's dragoon power burning him before the dagger could make his blood flow. Rose felt Brads thoughts then hearing the man horrible scream, how he wanted this to end, how much he needed to find the princess and it startled her.

The scene shifted again to a dark haired child telling her mother that it was all black. She could see the trembling woman holding her child against her chest, as the world burned around them. She screamed at Brad not to come any closer, her expression something Rose wished to never see again.

But Brad ignored her. Rose could feel the moment he suppressed his feelings, like putting a lid on a bottle, "Where is Princess Etoile? Where did you hide the Moon Child?" he asked once more.

The woman’s fear grew, the child had grown quiet in her arms, "We don't know!" She said, out of breath, smoke making her voice raspy, and "What kind of spitefulness do you have toward hour village?" she needed to know.

Brad looked at her with disdain, persuaded she was lying, "You want to die with your daughter?" he taunted, a last resort to make her talk.

The woman’s fear was forgotten, her eyes braving Brad as her arm closed more firmly around the girl.

"Mom, I’m scared." The girl said.

And at that moment Rose understood something that followed her all her life. Why Brad never wanted for her to inherit his choker, why he had wished for Rose to never see this.

The woman’s mouth kissed her daughter, "Princess Etoile left for the sea." she told him, before raising her head and facing Brad again, "This must be enough to satisfy you! Now leave this town!"

Brad’s eyes closed for a moment and Rose was in the dark, but she heard him talk in his calm and steady voice, "The chance to eliminate the Moon Child came every eight hundred years. I knew when I accepted this power that becoming this cycles Black Monster would fall upon my shoulders." He explained eyes opening slowly to look at the woman again, "It's the time of the birth when the moon glows a blood color. The nearly born Moon Child has a magic power." He sighed.

The woman listened to him; her face pale and full of confusion with tears long dried on her soot blackened cheeks flowed anew.

"That magic power changes everyone around into an evangelist of the God, a servant to help prepare for the descending of the God."

The woman knew then, as her eyes widened that she wouldn't be spared. She fell limply, with her child still between her arms as a last breath left her lungs. Brads flames had been merciful where he couldn't, granting her a swift and painless death.

"Everything won't be settled until I kill every single person who was present as the Moon Child took its first breath."

It was stifling, knowing that killing that woman did nothing to Brad, his resolution still intact as he moved out of the burning house.

It was dizzying to suddenly be back in front of the same girl now barely older than Rose looking back at her with void grey eyes.

"It was a miracle that I survived."

Rose’s finger twitched with Brads lingering need to end everything, to fulfill a purpose that was never supposed to be for her. She was never to be part of a cycle.

Gathering herself, Rose needed to say something, "I see," she sighed, "Is it when you were blinded?" she offered, already knowing the answer.

Sirel smile was proud, like her blindness was a small price to pay, "Yes. However, the God imparted me with something else."

Brads words resounded into Rose’s mind, his voice mingling with the one she had heard until then, her namesake telling her about how being around the Moon Child on the day of his birth affected those present, how they needed to be killed. But the woman in front of her was far from being something malevolent, planting a seed of doubt into Rose's heart.

"Sister Sirel can see people's soul." Ian exclaimed, her hand bringing Sirel closer to her chest, "But she feels their pain too. Because of this Sister Sirel has suffered."

It made more sense to Rose that her 'blessing' seemed to resemble more of a curse. Sirel shook her head, not really agreeing with Ian’s words.

"Now I can appreciate this power I have because it allows me to heal the pain in people’s hearts."

Rose didn't know why but it made her roll her eyes. People like Sorey… that thrived when helping others, she seemed to attract them. Could she ever stop the growing fondness she felt for those kinds of people?

"If you need to heal the pain in your heart, please tell me. I can help you".

Knowing Sirel would be compelled to offer, like she already had glimpsed into Rose's soul like she pretended to be able to, did help her from holding her scoffing. Ian glared again, offended by Rose's rudeness.

The pain in her heart, she said. It was that pain that was keeping Rose alive.

"Thanks for offering, but that won't be necessary." Rose answered curtly.

Sister Sirel’s head lowered a bit then, her hand clutching in front of her as she accepted Rose's refusal.

Rose looked at the monolith one last time, catching a familiar name here didn't surprise her, "By the way, are you done here?"

"Yes. We'll go back to Deningrad soon." Sirel blinked surprised by Rose's question.

 Feeling compelled to stay some more at this woman’s side, Rose looked one last time around herself. She was done here too, she had seen enough.

"May I join you?"

It felt weird asking that to a woman she just witnessed her most traumatic remembrance before feeling the strong urge to kill her as well.

"Even if you are with guards, the forest is dangerous. I can protect you." She offered

It wouldn't be wise to mention that it was mostly her gut told her to observe Sirel a bit more. The elation Sirel felt radiated from her being. She brushed at her short dark her, clutching Ian’s hand in hers.

"Please, feel free to come with us."

Deningrad, capital city of Mille Seseau was a town nestled atop a mountain plateau, so far north that even in the middle of spring, though it was rare, snow patches still littered the ground from the last shower over-night.

It was the middle of the day when the Dragoon Squad- thinking about that name made Mikleo shiver but he had to admit there was nothing else he could call their group- minus Rose and Zaveid walked into the city.

 The sky over Deningrad was shrouded by a thin layer of grey clouds, cold wind from the mountain gently sweeping them over the high blue tiled roofs. They parted for a second and a bright ray of sun pierced through just as Mikleo lifted his eyes to look at the Crystal Palace dominating over the city.

It was marvelous. The blue-green crystal formation was snaking around ancient looking stones, starting from the ground and pointing toward the sky while leaning slightly. A leaning tower made of crystal. Among it sat the flowing banner hanging from windows and doors like the human made structure was supported by the crystal but also engulfed by it.

When the ray of sun hit the crystal, Mikleo was stricken by the mental image of a meteor falling from the sky over the palace before it was frozen in time and turned into crystal. It certainly looked like it.

 Mikleo had to force his mouth shut not to let out an astonished gasp, but the other around him didn't refrain their sounds of appreciation.

As always, Sorey couldn't refrain his enthusiasm, letting out a loud exclamation of delight as he tugged insistently on Mikleo’s sleeve.

"Look ! Look, Mikleo ! That color is so unique!"

"I'm not blind." Mikleo sighed.

He should have enjoyed the sight as much as Sorey, but there was a lingering worry in him since Sorey had collapsed and he just couldn't relax when Sorey was still this pale.

There were some whispers from the locals, chuckling at them under their warm looking cloth, and Mikleo turned to Sorey ready to chastise him only for him to gape at the sight Sorey made unable to form words. The green of Sorey's eyes rivaling the scintillating Crystal Palace killed every nagging he could have said, because it would make him a monster to try to tame Sorey’s appreciation of Deningrad when it was making him look so beautiful.

Mikleo gulped, feeling heat reach his cheeks.

Sorey was stunning, radiating warmth and happiness even though his cheeks and nose were red from the cold. He was holding his head held high, beaming as he immersed himself in the town atmosphere looking everywhere at once. He was laughing slightly unable to believe what his eyes were showing him. Mikleo had trouble believing it too, maybe it was his heart making him see things that shouldn't be there.

It was captivating to say the least; it was only Alisha sneezing that made him stop looking over her as his delighted expression changed for a companionate one. Mikleo’s lip jutted out as he sent a cold glare to Alisha. .

"Are you all right? It is rather cold here."

Now that Mikleo’s attention was turned on Alisha, he could see that she had teary eyes and she couldn't hold her sniffling as Lailah handed her a handkerchief.

They anticipated that the weather would get colder this far north, the whitened peak of the mountain closer than ever forming a natural wall behind the city. So they had bought warmer clothes from before departing from Furni. Sorey and Alisha were wearing a dark blue coat lined with fur over their clothing, and Alisha’s skirt had been replaced by warmer black pants. She chose to wear wool gloves with an assorted woolly hat covering her head while Sorey preferred to keep his Shepherd fingerless glove.  Despite the precautions, she was shivering as she blew into the handkerchief.

"You definitely are cold, maybe we could find a place to rest for a bit and discuss about what we should do next." Lailah proposed.

"Seeing you wearing so little though…" Alisha answered with a voice changed by her clogged nose, "I can't believe Rose refused to buy clothes for you."

Lailah chuckled with a hand over her mouth, "She was right though. We Seraphim can regulate our temperature using the mana in our blood. We only feel the cold if we want to or are too weak to have control over our abilities."

Sorey seemed perplexed, brow furrowing together as he crossed his arms over his chest, "But in Elysia the others always wore warmer cloth when the weather got cold." He mused, then is eyes lit up as he remembered something, "Mikleo had that scarf made with goat wool! He always complained it was scratchy and refused to wear it when it was the softest thing ever!"

Sighing, Mikleo pinched is nose, "At your age I thought you would have figured out we did that for you. You were so stupid as a child you had trouble understanding why you were the only one forced to wear many layers that hindered your movements when I could move freely. You would have died from the cold if I didn't wear that ugly scarf."

"You two were so cute!" Lailah breathed.

The revelation made Sorey blink as his eyes grew wide with understanding. Then he threw himself at Mikleo, arms extending as he looked for a spot to tickle.

"Mikleoooo! No one ever told me! Thank you for wearing that ugly scarf!"

"Not again." Edna mumbled pulling her tongue out in disgust.

Someone did interrupt them before she could act and separate them herself, sparing them those aching ribs, a man loudly cleared his throat. Sheepish, Sorey and Mikleo moved out of the way to let the man lead a group of persons toward a large set of stone stairs. All the while he explained the architecture and town history to them. They were wearing warmer clothes than the other people around, clearly unused to the cold here. Mikleo had to admit seeing tourists so far north proved the city historical value.

The man’s voice droned out interesting stories about the world creation and how it was in Mille Seseau that the myth of the Great Tree originated but Mikleo failed to be interested. He had read the Celestial Record he knew all that already and more. Eyes, following the group of tourist Mikleo noticed they were right before Deningrad Church of Soa.

It was weird looking at it, because he didn't feel any need to go inside and visit it.

He felt insistent tugging on his sleeve again, inwardly readying himself for Sorey asking to go inside that building, completely unaware of Mikleo's gut feeling telling him to stay away from that. But when he turned to face Sorey instead he found him turned away from the Church toward a rather nondescript building farther into the street.

"That sigil. Did you see it, Mikleo."

Mikleo stared at the building door, the oak wood engraved with a familiar sigil though he couldn't place what it was, it was on the tip of his tongue.

"Oh! That’s right, Deningrad's library is said to be the Archive from the Story Teller Of Time!" Alisha perked up, cold forgotten for a moment.

"Right! The Celestial Record mentions it. It's said to have the largest collection of books in the whole world!" Sorey was already half dragging Mikleo when recognition lit his eyes.

So that was the Story Teller of Time’s sigil. It did really feel familiar, Mikleo remembering the small undetailed sketch in the Celestial Record, though it was hard to recognize just from the sketch alone. Mikleo had always envied Sorey's observation skills, and again it didn't fail to impress him, not that he would admit it.

"Well, it does seem cozy inside. Why not go there?" Lailah asked, turning toward Edna.

"Human books are boring."

Sorey stopped, shoulders hunching as he turned toward Edna, "They have books on anything. Maybe we could find a clue on how to help your brother."

Edna was already marching toward the library.

Ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

It was a literal tower of books. The interior of the library had an alveolus form, one room with eight walls especially built to accommodate rows and rows of books covering entire walls from ground to ceiling, all on three mezzanine levels.

Ladders on the first level led to the second one where the bookcase from the lower floor had been used to make a pathway, the carpet covering the wooden floor stifling the noise from their steps. The third floor, while still filled with books had larges arched windows allowing the grey light from outside to penetrate the library. Scattered on those floors were cushioned hand plush chairs. A paradise for bookworms.

Though he had greeted them enthusiastically, the old librarian kept eying them warily as they dispersed to look at different books. Mikleo too would be wary of thieves if he would be guarding over such a collection, though he was also hurt to be suspected. Arms crossing over his chest, Mikleo sent back a glare to him.

"This book is about Dragons ! This one talks about Dragoons too! We didn't even have that back in Bale!" Alisha suddenly exclaimed where she was perusing over bookshelves.

The librarian’s wariness turned to pride for a moment before he composed himself and returned to whatever he was doing until then.

"I wish Rose was here," Alisha breathed, "There is so much she could learn from this." She opened the book, her face taking a focused expression.

Clapping her hands together, Lailah reassured her, "They will be back soon. We have to do what we can do now."

Taking the book about Dragons Alisha handed to her, Edna settled on a plush cushion. Mikleo was immediately attracted toward a book on ancient tongue, a sort of encyclopedia regrouping seraphim folk tales, though he soon found out he couldn't concentrate on the words. His gaze kept drifting to Edna, her face blank as she turned page after page.

Reluctantly putting his book back on the shelves, he carefully walked toward her.

"This is more about Hellions than Dragons, I guess." She told him before he could gather his courage and ask. Her tone never changed as she started to read aloud, "Hellions were creatures of light that could employ magical power that went beyond even seraphim enough that they could make entire cities float. They had their glory eleven thousand years ago. Sounds like garbage if you ask me."

He shook his head, understanding her skepticism, "It is unimaginable in the current world. Yet there are ruins and remnant from the Dragoon Campaign that-

"They became extinct after the war with Humans who were seeking their liberation. Those are legends, those don't necessarily tell the truth." She interrupted him before he could explain anything. "We already know that Hellions are no creature of light." The last of her phrase came lower.

Her face remained blank but her blue eyes sent daggers, daring him to try and explain to her the very thing she was reading about. Mikleo held her gaze, trying to stay neutral as she slowly went back to her book.

He let out a sigh, maybe it was better to leave her be for a while. Sorey had played with fire when he told her they had a chance to find information about how to help Eizen. He could only hope deep inside that Edna wouldn't face another disappointment. Gramps always told him than there was no turning back a Seraph turned Dragon.

Mikleo could hear Lailah’s heels working on the second floor though it was muted by the carpet, and he climbed the ladder and joined her.

"Did you find anything useful?"

Stopping her pacing, she brushed back a strand of white hair while holding her book toward Mikleo, "This book talks about Divine Moon Objects. There are not a lot of details though. I thought that if we can find the meaning of the 'Divine Moon objects', we could have a guess at what Lunarre wants."

"That's sound like a good idea." Mikleo nodded, coming closer to look at the part she was showing him.

"Let's read the part I found," She leaned closer, her shoulder brushing Mikleo's, "After the Dragoon Campaign, Humans took over the Continent of Endiness from Hellions and divided the continent into four, though they established only three new countries. Serdio to the east, Tiberoa in the south, Mille Seseau in the north. And to the west of the continent, the untouched land, the Death Frontier."

It was fascinating to say the least, Lailah’s voice soothing as she recounted the words. Mikleo did already know about that part, the continent division being one of Sorey's favorite subjects he longed to know what those 'Divine Moon Objects' had to do with that. He smiled as Lailah went on.

"Each country shared three divine objects inherited from the Hellion as a proof of their alliance. The divine moon objects are said to conceal magical power, such that humans couldn't understand, that’s why their usage is unknown." She lifted her head from the book, biting her lips as she pondered over the lack of answer that part of the book provided.

Hand holding his chin in thought, Mikleo repeated, "So their usage is unknown by humans."

"Some of those books were written by seraphim as well. I'll look into it some more." She nodded, already going back to reading the book in her hand.

If there was something to find on that subject, Mikleo had faith in Lailah to find it. Though the library was warmed, Mikleo felt a shiver ran up his spine. Turning as he rubbed his arms, he looked up to find Alisha and Sorey on the third floor, facing the bookshelves and whispering quietly between themselves. Mikleo had already inquired about Edna and Lailah’s reading so why not go up to them? The stepladder creaked lightly under his feet as Mikleo looked over Sorey, another shiver surprised him when he noticed Sorey's troubled expression.

"Look, Mikleo this book about Dragoon is fascinating."

It was Alisha who invited him first, whispering as she pointed at crudely made pictures in the book she was holding

"I never read about it in such details in the Celestial Record! It does say like Rose told us, that Dragoons are called when history requires them."

"When Calamity falls over the world," Sorey interjected voice barely above a whisper.

"The Legend of the Shepherd and his Dragoon." Mikleo confirmed.

"Well Lafarga was a Dragoon, then Dezel, Maltran and Forton too. What in the grand scheme of things did this have to do with history or Calamity… I wonder…I don't know. Did all that happen only for us to be gifted with the sprits now?" Alisha asked, though from her mumbling at the end Mikleo could tell it was more to herself.

There was no proper answer to that. Destiny was a human made concept, "I don't know either. What I can tell is that Lunarre seems to be the one dragging everyone along."

Alisha hummed under her breath resuming turning back toward the shelves as she continued her reading. From over his book, Sorey was looking at Mikleo. There was a sort of melancholy pooling into the depth of his green eyes and Mikleo could already guess about Sorey’s chosen book.

"So you found something about the Black Monster, right." He sighed as he stepped closer to Sorey.

 He felt it in his soul when Sorey nodded, "I thought there was something, but it's nothing more than what Masedra told us, that it descends upon the earth every eight hundred years or so. This book is more about legends and records of sighting."

"The Black Monster." The librarian coughed, like he was trying to mask his comment.

"Did you say something ?" Mikleo asked him, watching him closely as he stopped to hide behind the shelves.

"Ah, I was surprised that all, it's been Eighteen years since the Black Monster plagued our country and destroyed Camlann, I wasn't expecting young people like you to know about it."

Sorey shared a glance with Mikleo silently asking if it was okay to talk more about it, "Camlann was in Mille Seseau? We are from Camlann." He told the librarian

"Oh my." Lailah let out.

The man’s eyes widened as he looked at Sorey, "By the Lords. Are you survivors from the village?"

Sorey opened his mouth to answer to tell the man that he was a mere babe and held no memories but the man was already moving away from them. Interrupting whatever Sorey must have told him with a loud exclamation.

"Then you must absolutely see our memorial. I don't know if it will answer your question about the Black Monster, but you must see it. Please follow me this way." He asserted.

Mikleo could almost feel himself grow pale, a bitter taste coating his tongue when Sorey’s interest piqued, his lover’s fingers wrapping around his wrist like he wanted to pull him to follow the librarian.

"A memorial?" there was something hesitant in Sorey's inquiry yet he leaned closer to the librarian, unable to hide his interest.

"It's upstairs, follow me." The librarian insisted.

The man didn't wait for an answer already walking toward the only set of stairs that weren't made in wood, the stone giving a dull noise as the man stepped over it. Never once did he look back to see if he was followed.

Having followed the whole conversation, Edna was climbing the ladders, joining Lailah with the obvious intention to follow the librarian. Yet, they both stood before the stairwell, waiting for the others.

"Are you going or not? Isn't it exactly what you pestered us about the whole journey here?"

Sorey bowed his head, avoiding Mikleo's prying eyes, "It may seem weird but I feel like we are closer that we ever were to knowing more and… it's only now that I'm anxious about what I may discover. I always thought Gramps didn't know more about the Black Monster but there was a possibility he just didn't want to tell us for a good reason." He scratched the back of his neck.

To Mikleo, it wasn't weird or silly at all, it was exactly what he had been warning Sorey about since the beginning and it was frustrating to see him hesitate only after coming so close to an answer. He wanted to tickle him until his downfall.

But the situation was serious, enough to drown Mikleo in his own thoughts. For him their history with the Black Monster didn't shape them as a person but knowing more might change that. He didn't want that change.

"I want to see that memorial. I want to know about the Black Monster. I think it's important for its victim to pass on memories, to never forget about calamity." Alisha interjected as she moved toward the stairs as well.

The determination in her pale green eyes when she turned to look at Sorey burned through Mikleo’s soul and he sighed. He knew at that very instant that her words had moved Sorey’s resolve, and that he would follow and see by himself. And Mikleo would follow, if only to help him through the unearthing of that missing piece from their past. He was also certain he would regret it.

Sorey nodded, tensing then relaxing as he climbed the stairs. Mikleo's jaw was clenched tight. He had to bite into his tongue to stop himself from protesting, because Sorey needed, wanted to know and he should be there, he was his friend, his lover, he too had survived the Black Monster. He had to tell himself it would be okay, they were just following a weird librarian into a room probably full of books, of records and tidbits relative to the Black Monster, nothing bad could happen.

Mikleo’s breath caught the moment he stepped into the room. There wasn't a single book. The low lights hanging from the ceiling were carefully placed to light the displays. The walls were covered by paintings and bas-relief. There were depictions of scenes that Mikleo recognized from the Celestial records, paintings of Dragoons with their glass wings in a scene of war. A wooden gravure that could only be representing the Divine Tree.

But the center display was different somehow. It was a bunch of broken and burned things, there was a sign in front of them, looking pristine and out of place.

The sign’s words etched into Mikleo brain like a burn, 'Relics from Camlann the tragic village.’

It was a museum.

He couldn't bear to look at Sorey right now, eyes occupied by the historical artifacts the unassuming room sheltered and though he should be happy to find such things here, Mikleo’s sweat was running cold down his back. There was something haunted about the display, almost like they were oozing malevolence.

The girls had already dispersed around the room, admiring and commenting in low voices but Mikleo could still feel Sorey's touch when he should be already sketching and taking notes in his travel book.

"Ah, those are the historical materials of Mille Seseau," The librarian commented from where he stood near a model boat, he walked toward the pile of broken objects, face long as he stared at them, "For other people it may seem to be mere trash, however for our country, they are all important historic objects."

When Sorey finally let go of Mikleo to look closer at the broken artifact, a lump fell into the pit of his stomach, weighing him like a stone. It was only a broken cart wheel, blackened around the edge and a piece of stained glace barely holding together but the sight of them was enough to make Mikleo nauseous.

"This is something left by the Black Monster that brought inferno down in this country. This stained glass is a vestige of Camlann church. It rained black flames that day, this was the only remains left of the church." The man said, tone solemn.

Because Sorey was biting his lips, looking at the glass like it was crumbling under his eyes, Mikleo gathered himself and willed himself to ask, for Sorey's sake.

"Do you happen to know more about what happened back then?" his voice sounded weak even in his ears, it was only because of the quiet that the man could hear him, "Any survivors or…"

Mikleo had to stop, something he had refused to acknowledge until now echoed loudly in his mind, did you know what happened to the woman that entrusted me to Gramps? it said. Mikleo swallowed again, chasing the thought by looking closely at Sorey's reaction.

"I know only one." The librarian said, retrieving some of his earlier joviality.

Heart squeezing in his chest, Mikleo lost his breath. Sorey’s eyes lit with interest.

"So, someone did survive. What good news."

"Maybe we could meet that person?" Alisha suggested.

Somewhere, Mikleo knew it was the normal thing to suggest, following the conversation yet he glared at her, the ice in his vein transferring into his glance. What if it was her? Alisha couldn't fathom the consequences of such a suggestion. Mikleo himself couldn't fathom his own reaction. He caught himself however, feeling guilty for lashing out again though silently and tilted his head at Alisha in apology though she didn't seem to have caught his slip.

Rubbing at his shoulder, Mikleo let out a sight. The whole situation was making him jumpy and tense, he had to calm himself.

"She was only a child at that time. So, I guess she won't be able to tell much about the Black Monster." The librarian said, and Mikleo let out a breath he wasn't aware of holding, "She is now the second Sacred Sister of Mille Seseau, Sister Sirel."

Another child, just like them. Not a woman. Not a seraph.

"Can you maybe tell us more about the Black Monster then?"

Sorey seemed a bit more confident now in his question, his interest renewed now that he had vanquished his hesitations. Some part of Mikleo agreed with him.

"Ah, I can tell you that there is a legend about the Black Monster and The Moon Child." The librarian nodded.

"The Moon Child?" Alisha asked.

Her words couldn't cover Lailah’s sudden yelp. Eyes turning toward her she blushed, hand covering her mouth, "I-huh-I saw a huge spider."

Mikleo’s eyes narrowed in suspicion as Lailah’s voice did that high pitched thing she did when she tried to divert the conversation away from something she couldn't talk about, but she wasn't the one talking so she calmed down, smoothing her dress as she waited for the librarian to continue his tales.

"Yes, I forgot that you aren't from here. The Moon Child is well known to us Mille Seseau scholars as it is part of the history of Hellions, maybe you read it in that book?"

Alisha nodded, prompted by the librarian she recalled, "There was something about how the Hellion’s power came from the god they imprisoned,  but during the Dragoon campaign, humans and Dragoon freed the god whose spirit flew into The Everlasting Moon."

Mikleo’s nausea had been residing as he had calmed himself but hearing this made his stomach twist in the wrong way again.

"Are you all right?" Sorey whispered.

Sorey’s breath ruffled Mikleo's hair as he realized he had let out a whimper, "Just surprised. This was never mentioned in the Celestial Record." He half lied.

"Well, the Celestial Record author did with what he could gather. I'm glad we stumbled upon those books, it feels like continuing his research of some sort." Sorey whispered back.

The loud clearing of the librarian throat reminded them that they were supposed to listen to the man because they asked for his tale and not talk between themselves. Sorey’s smile was sheepish but Mikleo rolled his eyes as he crossed his arms over his chest.

"Well, what were you getting at old man? You made Alisha do the job for you so now spill, are we talking about the Moon whatever or the Black Monster?" Edna said, yawning loudly to show how bored she was growing.

The librarian looked slightly offended as he sputtered a bit, "W-well, as I was saying-"

"Alisha was saying." Edna insisted.

"Yes, like the young miss was saying, we believe in the legend that say the god inhabit the Everlasting moon that’s why every one hundred-eight years when the moon glows red the god sends a herald, a child to be born on earth and bless us with his holy light."

"That goes with Masedra's tale." Sorey added, head tilted and hand on his chin.

The librarian cleared his throat clearly not pleased at being interrupted yet again, "As I was saying we call it the Moon Child, and it is the herald sent to revive the god of the moon. Now for the Black Monster, it appears in various legends as a beast or something else that rebels against the power of the god. People claim that it rejects the peace and seeks chaos. The legend tells us the Black Monster abhors, despise and hate The Moon Child, fearing its light. It will seek the Moon Child and kill it. The circle is endless, the god staying forever in the sky and the world is in never ending chaos."

Mikleo’s knees suddenly gave up. Sorey was there to catch him just when Edna stifled a pained sound. Their eyes met and they both looked up at Lailah, face contorted in displeasure.

"I felt it too." she said.

Maybe Mikleo’s uneasiness had nothing to do with the museum after all.

"Something is really wrong." Edna added.

Chapter Text

It was the smallest shift in the atmosphere, a barely there sensation that something went wrong, something only a seraph could feel. Yet Sorey felt it too, it was just a shiver running down his back making him see stars for a second. The Seraph accompanying him had some urgency in their steps as they left the library, the tension lingering as three pairs of eyes went to the sky.

It was clearer than when they arrived into town, though it was lower the weak rays of sun were making everything around them glisten, like the whole town was sitting atop a jewel. 

All seemed calm. There were still people minding their business in the street, the town square slowly emptying of its afternoon crowd. All seemed normal. 

Sorey glanced back at his companions. Lailah had her joined hands tensing, the subtlest twitch in her jaw telling Sorey that she was still feeling it. Edna was gripping her umbrella too tight as she made it twirl behind her shielding herself as she looked up to the Crystal Palace. Mikleo's hand covered his mouth, his brow furrowing told Sorey that he was currently delving further into himself, searching, trying to understand the bad feeling. Alisha was beside him, looking at them in concern for she couldn't understand the feeling, not sharing the same connection with the spirit she was carrying.

If she wanted to say something, the way she gnawed on her lips showed just how she struggled to find her words.

The Dragoon Spirit's stone was neither cold nor warm under Sorey's touch as his thumb ran over the smooth surface. Its silver-white shine looked the same but to Sorey’s observant eyes, something was off, like the spirit was trying to make him aware of the something upsetting his friends. It must be why he had a taste of it too.

Yet, nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary. Maybe it was just a small change, a small disturbance in the flow of Mana running through the Earth Pulse. Maybe it was something dangerous, maybe not.

A familiar clash of red amongst a dull colored wool hat and bonnet caught Sorey’s full attention, a smile stretching over his lips as he opened his mouth to call. 

Alisha beat him to it though, the tone of her voice betraying her joy, "Rose! You're back!"

Blue eyes lightened when they landed on the group and while Sorey would have expected Rose to be the one to rush back to them it was Alisha who surprised him again, excusing herself as she pushed aside a passerby before grabbing both of Rose's hands in hers.

Sorey smiled, glad to see Alisha finally open with her feelings, forgetting her manners for once. It was a gentle push of Mikleo's elbow and a not so to gentle push of Edna's umbrella behind his knee that made him aware that he was falling behind when the rest of the group was already walking toward Rose. 

Though Alisha had suddenly grabbed Rose's hands, she had yet to say something, her face growing suspiciously redder as she stared at their joined hands. It seemed she truly wanted to say something but her face was blocked in a sheepish expression, her cheeks reddening as she stared hard at Rose, unable to formulate any phrase. 

Rose was starting to get red in the face too, even the tip of her ears coloring, and though Sorey thought it was an impossible feat it looked like Rose was embarrassed by Alisha's intense stare. More so, she too was rendered speechless, her blue gaze shifting to look anywhere but Alisha. 

"Hum… Did-did you manage to run you errand?" 

Alisha’s voice went a little higher than usual, Sorey frowned at that. Alisha had never had any problem with her friendship with Rose before, was it possible she was hurt by Rose leaving them all of a sudden even though it was for a short time? He observed her for a few seconds, her expression changing as Rose's gave her a vague answer. Then he looked back at Mikleo finding him looking away, observing the passersby.

"Did something happen between them?" He mused.

There was a loud sigh coming from Mikleo as he pinched the bridge of his nose. Sorey lifted a brow at him wanting to know his thought but when Mikleo looked back at him he just rolled his eyes confusing Sorey.

"Well, she was angry at Rose, but then she is not. Looks like finding out she couldn't stay angry got her hard. At least she didn't just stand there pinning for years, right Meebo?" Edna’s voice was the same monotone as ever right until the end of her phrase when the corner of her lips lifted in teasing.

Now it was Mikleo’s turn to get red, his fists balling before he remembered not to go into Edna's game, "Whatever." 

Sorey blinked in confusion. He knew better than to try and understand their banter, yet he was growing curious, what in his observation could have triggered this?

Edna wasn't done with Mikleo, her eyes half closing as she zeroed in on Mikleo," And to say you were that jealous of Alisha? Does she seem about to steal your Sorey away now?"

"I wasn't jealous of her!" 

And Mikleo was baited.

"That you were."

Sorey sighed and shook his head as he left them to their game of throwing words, curiosity unsatisfied and still even more confused. Though he had some feeling that Mikleo was somewhat jealous of Alisha, Sorey thought proving his love to Mikleo everyday would appease him but knowing Edna's way of saying truth to tease… well, this was getting complicated.

Lailah chuckled," It seems Alisha's courting Rose went unnoticed by our Shepherd." Her eyes fell on him, her smile growing the more Sorey eyes widened in realization," Oh, well. It seems Rose didn't notice she was courted either. You both are similar in your denseness." Lailah finished. 

It was hard to be offended by the truth of her comment because Sorey felt stupid for not having noticed it before. There were so many signs he should have seen and yet… there were so many more things that preoccupied Sorey's mind.

He was glad for them, his heart warming at the thought that Alisha had a great many chances to succeed in her courting.

"You have a gentle soul. It's refreshing to see someone so full of life."

Rubbing the back of his neck, Sorey became aware that he had been introduced to someone. There were two women standing near Rose, one with dark blond hair tied in a short-tail staring at him with vibrant amber green eyes as she held the other woman’s arm, the one that had talked to Sorey. Ashamed that he had failed to catch their name, Sorey watched as her dull grey eyes seemed to peer inside him.

"I'm sorry, I think I didn't hear your name." He confessed, getting uneasy the more her dull eyes stayed on him.

He didn't know why but it felt like she was seeing into his very soul, analyzing his core and getting to know him like he himself couldn't. He suppressed a shiver feeling rather cold all of sudden.

The woman smiled at him as Rose answered, "As I was saying, though with your boyfriend screaming his frustration seemed to have covered it, this is Ian and Sirel. I just stumbled on them as I was running my errand and well, we ended up getting back together."

This time Sorey didn't fail to catch the slight twitch of Alisha's lip as she had yet to let go of Rose's hands. In his attempts to avoid the woman’s gaze, Sorey bowed.

"I'm Sorey. It's a pleasure to meet you."

"You as well. Who could have thought we would have the pleasure to meet the heroes that defeated the Dragon in Illisa Bay, right Ian." 

"Right." Ian’s answer couldn't be more concise.

Then it fell on him that the woman’s name was familiar, in fact he had just heard it a moment ago. He might have seemed abrupt in his movement but as Sorey lifted his head the words left his mouth,

"Could you possibly be The Sacred Sister Sirel? The one who survived the Camlann tragedy? Maybe you remember something…about other survivors, or about the Black Monster, anything?"

Even to Sorey's ears the phrase sounded rude, yet the prospect that there could be another survivor, one that could potentially have more information standing before him he couldn't help himself.

He felt the bite of fingers digging into his forearm, knowing without a doubt that it was Mikleo chastising him. When seconds before he had wanted to avoid Sirel's piercing eyes, now he couldn't even leave her gaze the moment it would take to look back at Mikleo and assure him that everything was okay. 

The shake of Sirel's head felt like a rock falling into the pit of Sorey's stomach.

"What I remember is only the sound of terror."

There was silence then, the sound of the street around them dulling to nothing. Her expression didn't change but Sorey could tell just how much trying to remember hurt her.

"I’m sorry. I don't think I can be of much help to you."

Sorey felt in himself to interrupt her before she could excuse his rudeness, "I…it's okay. The fact somebody else other than me and Mikleo survived that tragedy means a lot to me." He finally caught Mikleo’s violet eyes over his shoulder, lips held into a thin line, "to us." He added.

Even though she had seemed distant and wary until then, Ian stepped up, "Excuse me?" her voice sounded loud compared to Sirel, she pointed at him with her finger, "So you are Sorey?" then she pointed at Mikleo, "Is by chance that Seraph’s name Mikleo?"

Sorey and Mikleo shared a glance, curiosity piqued. Mikleo nodded, "That is indeed my name, like Sorey said."

Without taking a breath Ian turned away from them to smile at Sirel, "We should take them back to the palace don't you think?"

Sirel blinked, then catching whatever the other sister meant she brightened, "We should. What an eventful day indeed."

But before Sorey could start to wonder about what they were talking about his breath was taken out of him. He gasped the stone inside his pocket emitted a shrill noise that reverberated through his skull.

Startled cries began to sound around them as the ground started to shake. It was something small at first, like Edna was the one making the cobblestones rumble in a fit of anger. Ian gathered Sirel in her arms

"Oh no! Sirel, hold onto me." Ian said.

"This is…" Sirel eyes lifted toward the sky.

Regaining his breath felt like breaking the surface after being underwater for so long, Sorey hand found Mikleo's as they both looked toward the clouds. The sensation from before came back stronger than ever, stifling them under a lead weight. Instinctively, the group got close together, waiting, preparing as if knowing what was coming.

Before they could see it a strong gust of wind hit them, forcing them to shield their eyes before they could see the approaching shadow. Dust and debris rose from the beat of its seven powerful wings, people ran for shelter around them, their screams echoing through the silent descent of the massive Dragon over the city.

A colossal winged reptile with an elongated neck flew over the roof, blowing tiles and destroying chimneys like they were mere twigs. Sorey’s eyes widened as a well-known page of the Celestial Record came to him, the drawing of a giant Dragon next to four other dragons for scale. The words under it sounding like a horror tale when read out loud 'The one who flies with seven diabolical eyes and wings that will bring destruction to the world. The king of all Dragons.' 

And there was nothing they could do to stop him. 

Sorey watched in horror as the Dragon got closer and closer to the city, its large shadow passing over them as it went straight to the Crystal Palace. Someone was saying something near him, but his ears were ringing too much for him to understand, only the shrill scream of the Dragon pierced through.

It all happened so fast then, the Dragon turning sharply to go around the Palace’s highest tower, its massive tail crashing against the tower side. Sorey could only watch as crystal exploded on the impact, breaking loudly as large shards flew around the city. The Palace held, though, still standing as the Dragon let out a frustrated cry.

Sorey’s eyes met the Dragon, from its seven visible eyes, the giant one in the middle of its face looked right at Sorey. He felt it rise inside him like a burning ember being reanimated, anger and resentment that wasn't his then fear and before he could breathe anew the Dragon was soaring higher its enormous body disappearing behind the mountain crest.

He felt himself blink to regain focus, the deep violet colors of beautiful eyes staring at him from above.

"Sorey ? Answer me please. Can you hear me?" Mikleo's voice had a panicked edge to it.

Aware that he must have blacked out again, Sorey breathed in and out, taking in his surroundings. At least he was still standing, with only one knee touching the wet and cold ground. Mikleo's hand was around him squeezing his upper arms and he was suddenly made aware that he hadn't answered.

"The Divine Dragon?" He breathed out.

The pained way Mikleo was looking at him, teeth coming out to bite lightly on his lower lip confirmed Sorey hadn't been dreaming.

 "That beast hadn't fully awakened yet. Must have felt our Dragoon's spirits and flew away."

To say Sorey was surprised to hear Zaveid’s voice answer was an understatement, he nearly jumped out of his skin before he turned to acknowledge his friend’s return.

"How can you be so sure of that?" Edna asked.

"I'm the Dragon hunter here. Knowing that sort of thing is my specialty."

Zaveid was nearly preening at Edna’s expression of utter disgust, chest and chin held high as he was helping Sirel and Ian up, carefully taking their hands one after the other. Crystalline debris had fallen all over them in a perfect circle and it was easy for Sorey to ascertain that the women were protected from a larger shard that broke on impact. The way the wary Ian looked at Zaveid helped Sorey guess who protected them.

However, Sirel couldn't find the time to thank the wind Seraph for his help, one hand clutching at her heart while the other found purchase on Ian's arm.

"So the legend was true." her voice trembled as she struggled to gather herself, "The Divine Dragon that sleeps under Mille Seseau’s ground. I felt its anger… its hatred." She closed her eyes, her trembling reducing as Ian stroked her hair.

The town was silent again, the wind calm as it carried the whispers and fear of the townspeople. Ian was giving orders to guards that stood at attention to help the population while taking care of Sirel who seemed too shaken to move yet.

From what Sorey could see, the town hadn't sustained major damages and thought few people around him seemed to sustain wounds, everyone seemed to slowly recover from the confusion and fear the sudden attack had subjected them to. It was like waking up after everyone had fallen asleep at the same time.

The glow of Lailah's healing arte bought his attention toward his friend, and he smiled as they were already busying themselves helping others. 

All but Mikleo who was still holding his arms, He looked back at him, Mikleo’s worried eyes searching the sky. He had been silent for so long it was starting to make Sorey nervous.

"Are you all right?"

Mikleo’s head turned back to him, blinking at Sorey, a tiny smirk showing, "You are the one asking that?"

Sorey expected anything from him but the pinching and pulling of his cheek. Protesting loudly, he tried to extract himself before finding out the hard way that it stung even more. When Mikleo released him he rubbed at his cheek, sending Mikleo the hardest glare he was capable of.

"What was that for?"

"You just stood there! You didn't respond when I called you! Twice! So let me ask again, are you all right ?" 

It was obvious that Mikleo was genuinely upset, and Sorey would have been too, if he just had witnessed what Mikleo had described.

He sighed, scratching at his nape, "I didn't hear a voice." 

Shoulder's sagging ever so slightly, Mikleo let out the tiniest sigh through his nose and Sorey knew he had guessed right. But ultimately he knew Mikleo would hate what he was about to tell him.

"I think I somehow felt the Dragon's emotions." He gulped, anticipating Mikleo's reaction.

And he was right, Mikleo’s jaw clenched, hands balling into fist, "That-" Then his eyes lit up, something flashing under them as he lifted a hand, holding his chin in thought, "Could it be that our Dragoon's spirit connect us with them?" he considered, "Lafarga and Forton certainly didn't use words to-"

"Are you people all... Dragoons ?"

 Sorey like Mikleo hadn't noticed that Ian and Sirel had returned close to them, enough to hear part of their conversation and make conclusions. Sorey bit is cheek as he looked around for Lailah. More than once she had warned them about not mentioning their Dragoon's power lightly. 

She was the one approaching Sirel first, "Yes," she answered, solemn, "We are the Dragoon knights who have the power to rule over Dragons."

It surprised Sorey that she would be the one to confess having that kind of power, but if (if he) reflected more on it the situation called to it, those people had just been attacked by a massive and ancient Dragon.

Sirel's hands joined before her and she smiled, "You really are a godsend."

Rose shook her head, "We are no such a thing. We came here because we were pursuing a vile, sneaky and dangerous man." 

Sorey saw the others gather around them, forming a protective circle around the two Sacred Sisters. Sirel's blind eyes found them as she blinked, curiosity and confusion mingling in her expression. Ian’s glare had softened somehow, and she too seemed to wait for answers.

"What did that man do to be pursued by the legendary Dragoons?" She asked.

Alisha’s fingers clutched at her cloak lapel, her voice steady as she answered, "He engaged in secret maneuvers during the Serdian war, and formed a conspiracy for a coup d'état in Tiberoa."

Sirel's eyes found Ian, then back at Alisha, "Could he be willing to bring such evil to Mille Seseau, " she gasped, shaking her head when she came to a realization,"Oh, Lords, could he had…the Divine Dragon…" she trailed, unable to phrase the horror of her supposition. Then she shook her head, "Please, you must meet with Queen Selene. It seems we'll be in need of your help in the near future."

Zaveid hissed, "I don't like being the one to bring bad news, but you aren't wrong in that. When it has gathered enough strength the Dragon will come back."

Sorey felt his heart squeeze tight in his chest. "We'll help you."

Thinking that he was getting used to being invited inside castles and palaces made Mikleo flinch inwardly. Yet it was the truth for he and Sorey had visited every castle mentioned in the Celestial Record. Does this mean that he could get used to it? Probably not, because every castle had been a sight to see and Mikleo knew he would never get used to the chance he was granted to see such marvel.

One thing he was certain though, it was that the Crystal Palace was his favorite one by far. Everything was a merging of white stone and Crystal from which light filtered and flooded the palace with a natural glow. It was like being under a crystal clear lake and watching the ray of sun hit the surface from above. 

The main gate opened to a large hall with a series of seta of stairs surrounded by crystals supporting pillars and a crystal roof, the sculpted arch connecting the pillars though were made of polished white stone. It was the perfect blend of human made and natural.

However, as he looked closer at the sculpted pillars top, Mikleo had a sense of familiarity, the stone used were very similar to those in the Mabinogio's ruins. It was hinted in the Celestial Record that the Crystal Palace could be of Seraphim architecture, but now seeing it for himself Mikleo was persuaded of it. 

Somehow, it filled him with pride.

"Sister Sirel ! Sister Ian !" 

The crystal filled room made every sound echo in an unusual fashion, the tiniest sound reverberating and amplified but with an agreeable chime to them. 

Thus, the voice of another woman calling the Sacred Sisters from the other side of the hall sounded like a bell toll as she ran down to them. She was all smiles, her brown hair held into a braided bun and with a tiny scar across her nose, jumping over the stairs in her rush. Her robe looked a lot like Sirel's though with a personal touch in the sense it was much shorter and revealed shinny shin guards over high boots.

"Oh, Clem, please don't rush we are fine." Sirel held her hands up ready to receive the woman who had nearly tripped twice in her need to check on her and Ian.

Clem stopped before her, and reached to hold both her lower arms in a protective gesture. Yet, her mouth was pursed like a child whose mother had just scolded. "The Queen was about to send a party to see if you were back."

"Yes, we happened to came back just before the Dragon's attack." Ian answered, nodding as Clem shifted her attention to her.

"An urgent matter came to our knowledge. We need to see the Queen and inform her of it." Sirel went straight to the point.

As if she just now became aware of their presence, Clem’s burgundy eyes perused over the group behind the two sisters, her fine brow furrowing as she appraised them, "That's a lot of guests," she commented, before clearing her throat, back straitening, "Queen Selene was with our most esteemed guest when the attack happened, she is still with him as we speak. Sister Gannet and I deemed it safer that she stay with a seraph." 

A look of relief passed over Sirel’s face as she turned toward Ian. Clem smiled at them before bowing and continued, "You all will forget that the circumstance don't allow me to meet you properly as I'm currently busy with organizing help and relief for the townspeople after the attack."

Being reminded of the Dragon’s, brief but violent attack made Mikleo shiver. The Dragon had seemed uninterested of the town and its people and had gone straight for the palace before retreating as fast as it came and Mikleo was certain there was more to it than Zaveid’s explanation of the beast sensing the Dragoons presence. Eyes shifting to Sorey, remembering that he told him about how he felt the Dragon emotions somehow, Mikleo found him looking back at Clem, his jaw working slightly. He was thinking, probably loathing as much as Mikleo was being held back from helping the town some more. 

That would wait for after they met with the Queen.

"Be assured we won't take ire after you for that." Alisha then exchanged quiet words with the women, unable to hold back an amused smile she had to hide under her hand.

"Thanks for your help, Sister Clem." Ian told her.

Clem beamed at her. Silence settled in the Palace hall.

"What are you waiting for?" Ian cut through it, putting her hand on her hips. 

Clem perked up, blushing as she was chastised "Yes, right. See you later."

With that, Clem bolted back from where she came, a few guards waiting for her at the other end of the hall as Ian shook her head

Sirel turned sharply to them, her unseeing eyes soon finding Sorey before seeking Mikleo's, "No matter, Ian is right. We must proceed and find the Queen at once." she clapped her hands in front of and lowered her head as if in prayer, "Though the times are dire, I believe both of you will be able to find some a relief in meeting her." 

She turned back toward the stairs and with Ian’s help started climbing them. Mikleo was left unable to read her expression and curious about her words. Her steady steps led them through the hall. 

From the outside, the Crystal Palace blended perfectly with the Crystal, and going further into it Mikleo found out it was the same on the inside, human made constructions enlightened and supported by the Crystal. With the Crystal going skyward, the palace had a lot of stairs, and in a sense it was like an ivory tower.

Lailah entertained the small trip to the Queen with questions about the Sacred Sisters, her enthusiasm fueled even more when she learnt that Mille Seseau was ruled by them. From there Rose and Alisha were happy to join and learn more. To be honest, Mikleo was more interested in the architecture and history, knowing that just like him Sorey was inwardly taking note of things to discuss later but in the general quiet of the palace the women's conversation was difficult to miss. From the bits Mikleo caught, he was made aware that there was one more sister beside Clem, Ian and Sirel and they were all somehow the Queen's adopted daughters.

There was a lingering feeling of wrongness in the back of Mikleo's mind, and the observation that Zaveid kept to the back of the group, silent even though the conversation entailed an entire kingdom ruled by women reinforced that feeling. Glancing back at Zaveid, Mikleo would have started to interrogate him if not for the rise in Sirel's voice.

"We have reached the guests wing. I will ask you to wait here while I ascertain the Queen is ready to receive you."

Before them was an ornamented gate, the wood used to make it looking a lot younger than the palace itself. There were two guards in front from currently talking in hushed whispers with Ian. One of the guards pushed the door slightly open, hand on the head of a carved Dragon and Sirel held his arm as they stepped inside, closing the door behind them.

It was quiet again, with only the muted sound from the wind outside and the small shifting of the other guard’s light armor disturbing it. Ian was looking at them, eyes lingering on Mikleo and Sorey, her green eyes a playful glint to it, with her lips twitching up from time to time. Mikleo was under the impression that Sacred Sisters all had unique personalities but he failed to see why the woman who had until now been rather harsh and wary seemed to suddenly be pleased by something, even more with the Dragon threatening them.

Another shiver ran down Mikleo's back, the Sister, Zaveid, they were all hiding something and it was starting to make him really uncomfortable.

The unexpected touch of Sorey hand on his shoulder blade made him nearly jump.

"Are you cold? You keep shivering."

His lover’s concerned eyes added guilt on top of Mikleo's turmoil, he shook his head lightly, and "I'm just… I'm still a bit shaken after the Dragon's attack." Then turning a glare at Zaveid, "And I feel like some truths are being held from us. Again."

Feeling the severity behind Mikleo’s glare and words, Zaveid held his hands up in defense, "Hey! I told you everything my Dragon hunter self knows! We are talking about a Dragon way older than old me here!"

That justification wasn't enough for Mikleo who took a step toward Zaveid, crossing his arms over is chest, "Then should we be concerned that you decided to disappear just before the Dragon came awake or that you showed up right in the moment it decided to attack Deningrad."

Zaveid flinched, as Mikleo’s eyes narrowed at him accusation seeping into his every move. To Mikleo the accusation that came out of his mouth made sense, even though he didn't take the time to really reflect on them. Whatever, the tension accumulated inside his body was killing him and he needed an outlet. Zaveid never told them why he joined the group beside because he had inherited the Jade Dragoon's spirit. When it never bothered Mikleo before, at the moment it was enough to doubt Zaveid's intentions.

His next accusation left his mouth before he could prevent himself, "Maybe you are working with Lunarre too, and freeing the Dragon was your plan all along."

There was anger pulling at Zaveid’s face, his teeth showing as he snarled, "You are implying that I could be working with someone that killed my friends. Me working with a guy that uses someone as dear to me as Eizen like he is nothing but a common beast of burden."

There were some tentative words of appeasement coming from Sorey and Lailah but Mikleo couldn't hear them over his shame though still doused in unchecked suspicion.  The truth, the horror of what he just said slapping Mikleo on the face. Again he had let his anxiety talk for him. The heat in him was replaced by cold.

 He was already taking a step back, trying to understand what overcame him to accuse Zaveid like that. Then Zaveid’s anger slowly turned to hurt, his head bowing a he sighed. 

"It's harsh to know you still don't trust me fully after all this time." he touched the pendant around his neck, fingers passing over metal indentations.

"That wasn't-" Mikleo started, bashfully looking away from Zaveid as he shielded himself with holding his upper arm," I have the bad habit to snap at the wrong person when I'm distressed, " He mumbled. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that." it was easy to recognize his fault in that. Not as easy to prevent it from happening in the future.

Zaveid smiled at him still, "I knew that, mik-boy. Still your words hit home because there was some truth in them." he confessed, a different kind of bewildered expression answering his revelation. "Maybe I should have been completely honest to begin with. I should have brought you to meet with my family." 

There was nothing Mikleo could answer to that, his mind has drawn in a blank. He turned toward Sorey to seek comfort, now feeling like a total jerk because of Zaveid but also bitter because he knew that Zaveid had been holding something from them, something he was sure could have prevented the Dragon's situation. Mikleo felt drained.

A clearing of a throat reminding him of the situation, that they were in a palace before royalty and that he had missed Sirel exiting the room with the guard.

Now that she had everyone’s attention, Sirel addressed the group, "The Queen will receive you in the throne room in a while." Then her unseeing eyes peered at Mikleo, her smile doing something in him that calmed the frantic beating of his heart, "There is the matter of our esteemed guest, he has asked to meet with Sorey and Mikleo in private."

Mikleo looked at Sorey, curious. Sorey merely shrugged, "We'll meet them then. Don't wait for us. We'll meet you back in the throne room." He told the others.

A tired sigh left Mikleo’s lungs as he watched over his shoulder as the others departed while he and Sorey crossed the wooden door threshold.

The room he was lead into was nicely warmed by a fire blazing in its hearth. The floor was covered by a brown and gold sewed carpet. There was a small bookshelf in the corner with a plush couch beside it.

For a moment, Mikleo’s sight was taken by the woman gracefully sitting there. She had an open book over her lap. She didn't rise when Sorey and Mikleo entered, preferring the watch them with eyes as green and profound as the Evergreen Forest, a cascade of brown hair over her shoulder and gilded crown sitting atop her brow.

But as much as he felt himself ashamed to have his attention taken away from the Queen, Mikleo’s eyes had to look back toward the bed when the silhouette on it moved, small feet making a thudding sound as they it the carpet.

"Sorey. Mikleo. I'm so happy to see you." The old man’s voice said, warm and deep.

Feet working on automatic, Mikleo crossed the few paces keeping him away from his relief, his joy and when his arms closed around the old man’s shoulders, Sorey's intertwining with them as he imitated him, a single breath left his mouth. 

"Gramps." 

That single breath took away everything as it left Mikleo, there was no longer any doubt and fear, the void it those emotions left soon filled by happiness, liberation, like he was home again and love as warm as and as soothing as the honey poured into a cup of milk given to him after a hard day of training. 

He could feel Gramps smiling against his cheek, and he instinctively nuzzled against it. Gramps still smelled faintly of smoke and petrichor, so Mikleo knew he wasn't dreaming.

The call sounded the same in Sorey’s voice, though louder and filled with mirth and laughter. There was wetness on Mikleo's cheek as he felt Gramps squeeze them back, hand digging through their layers of cloth to communicate his own happiness.

Eventually Zenrus pushed away from them, his hand coming to stroke Mikleo’s cheek before ending in his hair while his other hand mirrored the action for Sorey. He was still smiling his eyes under his bushy brows were half lidded, wet with unshed tears.

"You look like you have grown so much, both of you." He told them, pride filtering through his word. "I can barely recognize my sons."

Sorey let out a choked out laugh, "You don't know half of what we went through to find you!"

"We… we thought-w-we found your pipe and…we thought Lunarre-"

A firm caress atop Mikleo’s head kept his faltering words inside his mouth and Gramps’ smile was replaced by a scowl.

"That beast. I despise that you had ran into him. I fought with him indeed, and badly underestimated his cunning." Reluctantly, his gaze left his son to look at the Queen quietly observing the reunion beside them, "If it wasn't for Queen Selene, I wouldn't be here holding you today."

The revelation left Mikleo shaking and he had to squeeze himself against his Gramps again to hear his heartbeat, to feel him, to breathe his scent that smelled like home.

"We have so much to tell you about." Sorey said.

"And I'm here to listen." Gramps answered.

He was alive. He was well. He was here.

They found Zenrus. 

They finally reunited with their Gramps. 

Chapter Text

It seemed like ages since Alisha first stepped into Aroundight forest. She had been following Uno's advice. The water seraph having confided to the Princess that the Great Lord Zenrus lived in the village hidden deep in it. When she had no other option, she should seek him, were Uno's words.

At that time pursued by enemies and desperate, she had led danger to Sorey's and Mikleo's home and involved them in her mess.

So much had happened since then and Alisha knew she wasn't the same person as back then. She grew stronger, more confident in her abilities and she knew what she wanted. Alisha was certain that she somehow owed her growth to Sorey and Mikleo because they were the ones behind her. If not for Mikleo and Dezel she wouldn't had met Rose. If not for Sorey and Rose she would still be stuck with her narrowed view of the world.

She learnt from everyone. Lailah, Edna and even Zaveid and all their differences that made their group so dysfunctional were part of Alisha's new way of seeing the world. To travel with them, experience all those adventure with them, it forged her beyond anything she could have known behind the wall of Basil.

And Alisha wanted for this not to end.

It was too soon. Alisha never thought to prepare herself for the moment their mission would come to be accomplished.

But it will ultimately come to an end, right? After all, there would be a time when all her companions will go their separate ways, leaving, going home after fulfilling their personal quest. Alisha too will eventually need to go back to Serdio, with or without the Moon Gem because she was expected to serve her role as a Princess. She was needed as a role that would make her a puppet for the council and nothing more.

Thinking about Serdio brought unwanted images of Maltran in her final moments, emotion and goals distorted by malevolence and anguish and Alisha feared that left alone she could become like her. The Violet Dragoon spirit was a steady weight in her pocket, offering her a meager protection but never wanting to sing for her.

For a while Alisha had thought it was because she was still not strong enough to hold it but now. Everything changed, turning her world upside down when Lord Zenrus entered the throne room sided with two of her precious friends, both so radiant in their happiness they looked about to be flying

Her heart seized and her breath caught when she realized the implication that they had accomplished their mission. That the Violet Spirit would never recognize her.

She needed to take a breath, because her mind was uselessly wandering when she should be happy. She should be happy for Mikleo and Sorey. She should be happy because finally, after all this time she had met the Great Lord Zenrus. 

Alisha had first left her home to search for Zenrus, Sorey and Mikleo followed her because they needed to find him. And now he was there with them, alive and whole. Alisha kept thinking about that, the thought cycling endlessly into her mind

Because she wasn't happy.

She stood behind, paralyzed as the others moved to greet the newcomer. There was a cushioned bench sitting in a corner of the Throne room below a sigil made of wired and bent metal nailed to the wall, its pastel blue lining inviting her as her legs threatened to give way.

This couldn't be the end. They couldn't just leave with Zenrus, right?

She missed the moment when Queen Selene of Mille Seseau introduced herself, sat atop her throne carved in the crystal, her voice ringing gently against the walls. Alisha looked up on the raised dais, following the sound but not seeing her.

But then Lailah and Sorey told her everything about the Divine Dragon, about their travels and about the Dragoons. And Alisha listened behind the wall of her fear to be left alone.

Sorey is not ready to leave. Sorey was proposing the Queen their help in vanquishing the Dragon. Sorey cared and even if his and Mikleo's mission was done there was no way he would leave the people of Mille Seseau in danger.

Sorey was Sorey. He would never just abandon Alisha nor everyone else for the matter.

The Queen had seemed faint then, paling under the rays of sunlight coming through the crystal ceiling. She rose, coming down the few stairs separating her from the group, her green eyes bright when she asked for more details and clarifications.

Sorey’s voice carried through the small throne room, the sound filling Alisha's ears as she breathed in and out, trying to focus, trying to focus on the fact that Sorey cared.

Then Alisha tried to focus on the Queen, how her green cape fell over her shoulder, opening to reveal a white dress, a red and gold sash resting on her hips reaching to her feet. Her colors stood out amongst the pastel blue and white overtone that decorated the throne room.

She had long brown hair gathered into a ponytail falling on her shoulder, her green eyes found Alisha's and she smiled briefly when Sorey told her that they didn't know yet if they could defeat the Divine Dragon, but that they would stop it anyway. It was then that Alisha was overcome with a sense of dejà-vu, like she knew Queen Selene from somewhere.

Granted Alisha as a Princess of Serdio had met many ambassadors and official from other countries. However Mille Seseau was really far away from Serdio and if the Queen ever visited, Alisha couldn't remember. She did remember about hearing once that there was a Queen from a faraway land that had been in mourning for years, having lost her only daughter and Consort in a tragedy.

A gasp left Alisha’s mouth as it suddenly dawned on her why the Queen’s visage looked familiar. Ashamed and cheeks flaming as curious eyes turned toward her, Alisha sought comfort within her companions, only to be faced with their confusion while they expected her to say something after her outburst.

Alisha knew she was the only one to have made the connection then, biting her lips she turned her gaze back toward the Queen and the Sacred Sisters beside her. It was enough for Alisha to know that she would keep her finding to herself.

An apology on her lips, Alisha’s heart stuttered when the memory of a painting of a much younger Queen Selene faded and damaged by time and sea air imposed itself on her mind supplanting the actual Queen in her sight.

If the Queen never mentioned that her daughter the Princess Etoile had fallen victim to the Black Monster, it wasn't Alisha's place to reveal it.

Something then settled into Alisha. The Queen, her loss, the sacred sisters, Mille Seseau, it all called back to her like the Violet Dragoon spirit never did. Everything became clearer then. She felt silly for allowing a childish fear to take over her.

But the truth was, it wasn't time for Mikleo and Sorey to end their journey, it was time for Alisha.

Alisha gathered herself back, slowly breathing in and out then bowed her head, hiding the small saddened smile that found her lips. Her fingers trembling, Alisha fished out the Violet Dragoon Spirit. The stone stayed a dull purple in her palm.

"Pardon me Lord Zenrus, but it only now appeared to me that this may belong to you."

Curious, his bushy brows going up in wonder, the old man approached her with careful steps, reaching a hand up.

"How- Lunarre stole this from me." He seemed incredulous, like the stone could be a fake. His hand fell back against his side refusing to touch it just yet.

"Its part of the long story we need to tell you, Gramps." Sorey said.

His eyes found Alisha's, full of thankfulness but also something she couldn't properly define. She found the same undefined thing in the depth of Rose's blue eyes and it became clearer, disbelief, realization. They understood what Alisha was doing.

"I think… without the stone I can't go with you anymore." The words fell from her lips like a confession.

She was now certain that Sorey and Mikleo would carry on their adventure, because it wasn't the end. Lailah, Zaveid and Edna would follow them because they were Dragoons too and Dragoons followed the same path.

There was someone though that Alisha wished to never part with, but that someone was a Dragoon too, carrying that burden upon her shoulders for years and there was no stopping her because even after this Rose would go after Lunarre.

Still it was the end of the journey for Alisha.

There was no fear though, not anymore, not when she finally had found her own purpose

Alisha was feeling at peace with herself, her inner turmoil suddenly stilling, leaving her a bit empty but an emptiness that was ready to be filled. Her stomach was still knotted, but it was normal to still feel apprehensive when faced with a new unknown.

To be honest with herself, she knew for a while that her wonderful days with them would come to an end soon, like it was the spirit telling her that she had reached her destination.

Rose nudged her, "What are you saying, you are one of us. We'll need everyone in this."

Alisha must have imagined the quiver in Rose’s voice, she shook her head slowly, "I'm no Dragoon. I never was. That Divine Dragoon is something bigger than what we ever fought before, being strong won't be enough. I'm only human."

The last thing she wanted to see from them was pity, so Alisha avoided looking at them, clutching the stone in her palm. Lailah, Rose and Sorey suddenly got really close to her, putting themselves between Zenrus and Alisha, forcing them in her comfort zone. She would have taken a step back, if her legs weren't feeling so wobbly. She swallowed, uncomfortable under their scrutiny.

Lailah was the first to speak, lips pressed tight, "Human or not, you are one of us. You came this far, you are strong willed and clever. You know how to take care of yourself in a fight. I'm certain you'll be able to follow."

"I-" Alisha tried to counter, but a poke of Edna's umbrella in her thigh effectively silenced her.

"It's rude to interrupt, they aren’t finished." She mumbled.

Sorey nodded then, "Lailah is right. You were always strong enough to stand for yourself and we never had to protect you, though we certainly would if it came to that. Don't sell yourself short. We don't leave anyone behind. You have nothing to prove."

"But-"

Alisha winced, this time the poking actually was painful. She was rubbing the sore spot when Rose entrapped her between her arms, embracing Alisha. It was warm and comforting, but sad too because she knew how much Rose had lost.

"We are not forcing you to stay with us. We are just saying your reasons for leaving are wrong." She said, and then leaning closer to Alisha's ear she whispered only for her, "I can't- I don't want to…" she sighed in frustration, unable to express herself.

Rose must have felt Alisha smile against her cheek, because she responded in kind, her fingers pressed onto her shoulder. Rose leaned back allowing herself to go as far as put a stray lock of hair back behind Alisha’s ear.

"You-there is no way to convince you to stay, right? You have made you choice."  

Alisha was positive that her whole face was in flames, but Rose’s gentle eyes were like soothing water to her fire. She grasped Rose's hand squeezing it gently before letting her go. Gaze fleeting to the Queen and her Sacred Sisters Alisha’s heart warmed at her kind expression and hardened her resolve.

"I want to stay here. If I may, Your Majesty. Could I offer my help in protecting Deningrad and its people? I would be honored to serve you."

Though she respected her choice, Rose hadn't finished. She drowned the Queen’s answer to Alisha’s request, pressing her lips tightly against hers.

Once the surprise of the kiss passed, Alisha responded to it accepting the fullness of Rose's lips against her. Rose’s naked fingers were soft as a petal when they landed upon Alisha's cheek. Her other hand landed on Alisha's lower back pushing her closer to her chest.

Alisha's perception became small all of sudden. Limited to the feeling of her lash fluttering as her eyes closed, the slightly chapped skin of Rose's lips as she coaxed Alisha's to move with her. She couldn't hear anything over the beating of her heart. Rose tasted like mint and coffee, her tongue never invading as it invited Alisha's to a dance, and while the taste was unexpected it felt grounding, so real.

Then came the realization that Rose was kissing her in front of their friends, a Great Lord and the ruler of a foreign country yet Alisha could only care about the fact she was kissed.

When Rose broke the kiss and some air found Alisha's lungs and brain it was chased away by the way Rose was looking at her. She was red to the tip of her ears, baffled too by the brashness of her gesture. Yet there was a seriousness there that alerted Alisha. She closed her mouth, ready to listen.

"We'll come back after taking care of that Dragon. Then you better come back with us until we beat Lunarre’s ass because you. are. one. of. us." She said making sure to emphasize the end of her affirmation.

There was no answer to that, only the emptiness within Alisha swiftly overflowing with a love like she never knew before. There was a chorus of approvals, and there was love for them too. Alisha was loved, Alisha loved. It was all that simple.

She had no words. There wasn't any. Alisha smiled, feeling her eyes itch with the need to let the heaviness go.

"We do need someone with diplomacy and good enough manners to balance those barbarians."

Mikleo's comment finished Alisha's resolve and her tears came out with a choked out laugh. Still as Alisha listened to them, allowing herself to believe that she belonged with them the stone remained dead in her hands.

"For now…" she trailed. Her gaze found Zenrus again, and even though the old Seraph was so small and frail looking she could feel his power pricking her skin, "I believe it's not my right to hold onto this anymore."

She held the stone in front of her handing it to its rightful owner. Though it pulled at something inside her to part from it almost as painfully as ripping a fingernail Alisha faced it.

"You do sound like a strong and courageous person, young girl."

Zenrus came closer, his wooded sandals clacking loudly against the marble floor, but his smile was doing wonders to Alisha's mood and she now was certain that it ran in the family.

She definitely wasn't looking all regal and princessly when she sniffled, the cold of the stone leaving her skin as she passed it into Zenrus’ leathery hand. Nevertheless, just as she expected, the stone started to shine a bright violet light, and for the first time Alisha heard it singing.

Only the chosen one was supposed to hear the song, Alisha knew it yet she knew it wasn't her imagination, like the spirit was thanking her for taking care of it for so long. The song felt happy.

Alisha was happy.

Zenrus blinked rapidly at the bright light, his bended back straightening as he stared at the stone with a mix of astonishment and wonder. Both of his hands closed around it

"It's been a long time since you were last awake, old friend." Zenrus told the spirit.

"Gramps! You never told us you had been a Dragoon before!"

While Mikleo frowned, thinking, Sorey was shaking in his attempt to contain his own excitement. He was holding Zenrus’ shoulders from behind, inadvertently pressing on them if Zenrus’ slight grimace was anything to go by.

"I was so young back then. My memories of that time are scarce." Mikleo felt like the next words were somehow addressed to him, "When you live as long as me, only the most precious memories remain."

Sorey was opening his mouth again, his curiosity making him forget that there were more pressing matter than to hear a tale that Gramps couldn't hide from them anymore so Mikleo nudged him, effectively silencing him. The following silence was brief however.

"I now have the proof that you are indeed the Dragoon of Legend." Queen Selene clasped her hand in front of herself, pleading green eyes falling on Alisha, "I'm deeply touched by Lady Alisha’s willingness to help protect Deningrad, I can't refuse such an offer."

Alisha bowed low, then the Queen’s gaze passed all over them before landing on Zenrus. "Oh Lord Zenrus, can we ask more of you? You already did so much for us yet I have no choice but to request for your help in vanquishing the Divine Dragon."

Gramps rolled his shoulder, nodding at the Queen. "I did gather that’s where the youngster were heading. I might as well go with them myself."

Elation filled the Queen face.

Though the Divine Dragon was maybe the most powerful being they had to face, Mikleo was confident. He knew they were most certainly running toward the hardest fight in their life, yet with Gramps return it was like nothing could hurt him or Sorey anymore. They were the seventh Dragoon of Legend, he had yet to acknowledge the fact, and for now it all felt so surreal.

Then meeting Gramps eyes broke everything, Mikleo knew him. He saw behind the front that is Gramps was putting for the Queen, for them.

The chances they would be able to defeat the Dragon were slim, weren't they?

Like he heard his inner questioning, Gramps turned back toward the Queen, "Though even with the seven Dragoons' we will need something special to cross swords with the Divine Dragon. It is said that the Hellion made two weapons in ancient times in order to fight against Dragons. One is a sword to kill Dragons. As far as I remember it was called the Dragon Buster. Maybe you could help us in finding them your majesty."

Mikleo was astounded by Gramps knowledge exceeding beyond everything he had read. He didn't dare imagine how lost they would have been if they hadn't been reunited. He sighed, waiting as the Queen searched her memories for a clue. Beside him Sorey was smiling proudly, the idiot blissfully unaware of the danger yet again. Or if he was, he was hiding it well… as always.

Queen Selene nodded, "A sword to slay Dragons. I knew the legend but never saw it myself. It was a treasure kept by Mille Seseau but-"

"This one is lost." Rose interrupted her rudely, earning a chastising whisper from Alisha.

Sorey leaned against him, and Mikleo already knew what he was about to ask. At least he had the decency to whisper.

"Isn't it the Dragon Buster the sword Lunarre used to-"He cut himself before Mikleo's jab could reach is ribs, "Well that would explain Rose's reaction."

She was clenching her hands as they rested against her side, her hatred for the man who held that sword almost palpable in the still atmosphere.

"Well, if the dumb dumbs who were supposed to keep the treasure safe are now out of jobs, It leaves us with no other choice but to count on the other weapon." Edna’s voice drawled, making everyone aware that she was getting bored and would rather proceed.

It sometimes baffled Mikleo that she could be so forward, in front of Gramps nonetheless. Yet Gramps seemed amused, smirking at Edna's antics as he answered.

"That would be the Dragon Blocking staff."

"A Staff? Are we supposed to beat the Dragon with it?" Sorey tried

The roll of Edna’s eyes was overly exaggerated because with the sight she let out she was certain that everyone was looking at her, "Sometimes I forget you are the dumbest of them all. What could the Dragon Blocking staff do? Oh I have a wonderful scoop for you, it blocks."

Sorey let out a nervous laughter. It's been a while since he had been target to Edna’s frustration and Mikleo couldn't help but to hide his chuckle behind a cough. Sorey did earn that one.

Gramps cleared his throat and Mikleo was sure it was to hide his own snickering as he resumed his explanation

"Like miss Edna so earnestly suggested,"

There was a background protest of "I'm no miss, I'm a lady." But it was said so quietly that Mikleo feared he must have heard Edna's thought. Her answer when Mikleo looked back at her with eyes wide and startled was to raise a questioning brow, claiming innocence.

He bristled fuming inside, unable to decide what was worth, her disrespect of Gramps right behind him or that she may have found the way to send him her thoughts to torment him. Maybe she could have used the connection of their Dragoon Spirits, maybe she could have been hiding that capacity all along- Mikleo stopped that train of thought, because if the small smile at the corner of Edna's lips was anything to go by, she was playing with him.

He had to focus on what Gramps was explaining.

"Its name implies it is a magic staff to block the power of Dragons. Though for this one I don't think your insight would be necessary, your majesty," Gramps said stroking his small beard, "I think I know were its hidden. Or to be precise I know someone who might."

His gaze was hard when it fell on Zaveid, though Gramps’ smile was encouraging, like he wanted for Zaveid to take the first step.

Mikleo's eyes narrowed, he knew there was something more. Zaveid’s eyes were looking at everyone at a time, cornered and looking a bit sheepish. He was playing with the rim of Dezel's hat having taken it off when they had entered the Throne Room.

"Err, I thought you were friends with him too, old man. You know it's not that easy."

"Zaveid." Lailah’s voice was deceptively calm, Mikleo could feel her radiating heat, "Don't you think it's time to have faith in us? You accused Mikleo of not trusting you, yet you seem unable to trust us with this."

Crossing his arms over his chest, Mikleo watched him squirm, "Why are you hesitating?"

"Please tell us for the sake of this country." Queen Selene drove the point home.

Zaveid sighed loudly, shaking his head with a last glance full of reproach to Gramps,"Okay, okay but please promise me you won't freak out you guys."

Though Zaveid implied Gramps should be aware of the depth of his secret, his reluctance faced with everyone made Mikleo doubt it was a good idea. What could be so hard to tell that carefree Zaveid could fear their reaction? While everyone insisted, promising Zaveid to be open minded, Mikleo stalled his answer. Thankfully the fact that he had yet to respond went unnoticed with the effervescence building around him.

"My family might know how to find the staff but…" Zaveid was trailing again, making the moment stretch to no end, it was driving Mikleo insane." They are hiding deep inside the Evergreen Forest because of a good reason. They are Hellions."

Like Zaveid predicted disbelief and astonished exclamations rose. He flinched again, anticipating a barrage of question that might fall on him. But nothing came, once the initial surprise had passed, the others started looking at him in expectation. Mikleo found it weird to see the wind Seraph who usually loved attention squirming like he wanted anything but this.

Gramps was stroking his beard when, Mikleo heard his mumbling, "So, he really was sheltering Hellion, huh?"

He had no time to enquire about Gramps words before the Queen’s voice raised again, "There are many fairy tales of Fae and Goblins related to this forest, I guess part of them were true."

It made Zaveid smile and he relaxed a bit now that he was reassured there would be no hunting of those Hellions with pitchforks and torches. Mikleo shook his head still unable to process the full implication of Zaveid’s reveal, though now he could understand his reluctance to say it.

Zaveid had called those Hellions his family, and it somewhat troubled Mikleo. Now he knew that Zaveid couldn't mean literal family in the sense that Eizen was Edna's brother. Zaveid was maybe an idiot but he was no fool, if he considered Hellions, being known to have been driven to madness by their own emotions and malevolence then those Hellions were special.

The fact that they lived in a hidden village exactly like Seraphim tended to do was more than fascinating. Mikleo’s archeologist heart was pushing him to know more but his rational brain wasn't so sure.

"Is it a good idea to meet them? The Malevolence-"

"They are not malevolent." Zaveid interrupted.

Mikleo’s eyes widened his suspicion confirmed as Lailah hid her mouth behind her hand unable to hide her surprise. Non-malevolent Hellions, this was against everything they were ever told.

"I mean…you'll see when we get there. I'll guide you." Zaveid finished.

The answer was far from satisfying, crossing his arm over his chest Mikleo wanted to push for more when he felt something tug at his cape. He turned.

Sorey was clutching the fabric of his cape in a death grip, knuckle white. His green eyes were riveted well past the group toward the fine wired metal gate left opened in front of a set of stairs disappearing into the obscurity. Chest falling and rising in quick succession, Sorey gulped and wetted his lips before Mikleo could wonder what was wrong.

"Pardon my question if it's too forward your majesty but what is at the top of the tower?"

As the Queen considered Sorey's question, Mikleo leaned in to whisper, "Sorey, what's happening."

"I don’t know." Sorey whispered back, "It weird, like- like something really wants me to go there but something else is telling me to get as far as possible from this place and quick."

Mikleo frowned, eyes drifting toward the delicate fence and decorations marking the beginning of the stairway. He knew to trust Sorey’s instincts, and knew what it meant but there was no way Sorey was feeling the presence of a Vyrage here. There must be something else. Still, Mikleo had to be sure.

"Vyrage?"

Sorey shook his head, "It's different."

The Queen nodded finally answering Sorey’s interrogations," Zenrus told me about your enthusiasm for history and archeology. Well before the Dragoon Campaign, this castle was said to be a fort for Hellions. Up there is the last room at the top of the tower. The chamber held a great vestige of that time. It was said to be used for a ceremony to seal something. Would you care to see it?"

"No!"

Sorey sudden answer surprised everyone; Mikleo could feel him start to shiver as he held Sorey closer to him.

"I mean," Sorey continued, cheeks reddening and fingers playing with the hem of his mantle, "The Divine Dragon focused his attack mainly on the Castle so I thought there was something here attracting it."

Mikleo followed his train of thought because as hard it was for him to give him that Sorey had a point and thought of that before him.

 Hand on his chin he added to the conjecture, "Well, Hellions nearly exterminated the ancient Dragon race so, is it possible it focused its raid mainly on the palace because of its hatred against hellions?"

"I felt a lot of hatred coming from it." Sorey added.

Enthusiasm rising, Mikleo completely forgot they had an assistance while he started to ask Sorey for more information and they started exchanging theories and what ifs. It felt natural, falling into that old habit like they hadn't traveled through three continents. It felt good.

"And they are at it again." Edna deadpanned, rolling her eyes for the nth time.

"Hum, Guys, maybe we should head into the Evergreen Forest before night?" Lailah tried to pierce through the proverbial bubble Mikleo had made around himself and Sorey.

"No time to ask, we force them."

One hand on each of their shoulders, Rose pushed them gently but surely toward the exit, responding by yeah and right because it certainly didn't stop them from having their heated exchange.

With quick thanks and goodbyes, the rest of the team followed them, voices echoing in chime through the crystal walls of the corridors.

Zenrus stopped before the Throne room threshold, a large smile stretching his face.

"Well, Queen Selene. You've met my boys."

Chapter Text

As the group left the Crystal Place gates, hearts full of hopes and ready to depart on their mission, the last rays of sun had started to make its way down behind the mountain peaks. 

Rose was the first to address the issues with hands on her hips, but as she turned to suggest the group  wait for a more appropriate time to depart she saw the same disappointment in their eyes as the one she was feeling. The decision to depart with the first ray of morning sun was made reluctantly, because as much as time was a precious thing, the setting sun was an enemy they couldn’t fight. 

They made their way to the inn, Sorey's insisting that they shouldn't abuse another royal hospitality when people were literally without a roof because of the Dragon's attack was something they could all agree on- though Rose didn't miss his slight flinch as he looked back at the Palace before leaving it behind. Weird considering the fact he had been so enthused by it at first. Her instinct told her there was something fishy there, something Sorey didn't want to share- So they had gathered inside over a warm fire and a warm meal in Deningrad's inn.

As much as Rose had been willing to call it a night and sleep early to better wake up at dawn she had to accept the boys request to at least share a meal with everyone. Knowing Alisha wouldn't be following her this time had soured Rose's mood.

Still, the evening was great; one Rose would look back at fondly over time, a precious memory.

It all started to brighten with Zenrus telling stories, beer and Drago stew warming her belly and Alisha leaning against her shoulder. Alisha's laughter more than once when he told them about some weird antics Sorey or Mikleo did as a child gave Rose back her smile. Mikleo's protest and Edna's resulting teasing being the funniest thing Rose had witnessed in a while. She laughed too and it made her miss the Sparrow Feathers.

Opening a trades route between Serdio and Tiberoa wasn't an easy feat, bit she was sure Eguille and the others could manage without her.

Rose fell asleep with laughter still ringing in her ears.

It had snowed overnight, a fresh white layer of snow coating the blue roofs. It glistened under the first ray of sun, and the whole city seemed to sparkle.

But it was nothing Rose could admire when there were unshed tears in Alisha's pale green eyes. As their hands clasped together, Rose's heart squeezed with the hollow pain of loss. It wasn't the same she had to repeat to herself. It was only temporary. She would come back soon and Alisha would come back with them. Still she couldn’t stifle that little voice in her head that told her it was a mistake.

She had to ignore it though, Rose had a mission. Her head turning away from the Princess of her heart she found Sorey and Mikleo mirroring her feelings as they both hugged Zenrus tightly.

.Zenrus' wounds had not recovered enough to allow him to come with them just yet. He would follow soon enough, but it doesn't mean letting him go when they had just got him back was not a painful ordeal. 

It was just that, a goodbye, so why did it feel so wrong?

Hours after and Rose was still dwelling on that, though her thought started to deviate back on the lingering feelings of Alisha's lips over hers. She had kissed her hand through the leather of her gloves, both of their cheeks flushing as they both recalled Rose's boldness and the kiss they had shared.

Rose’s impulse was never regretted, the fear, no… the certitude that they would be separated had made her act rashly, yet Rose had seen too much, had more than a lifetime of memories worth to regret her act.

She stood in the back as they walked through the forest. Maybe she was brooding, but who could blame her? Rose wasn't in the mood to participate in any of the conversations. She kept thinking.

Even with Sorey and Mikleo’s constant asking, Zaveid still avoided talking about his family, acting like he was walking on eggs. Lailah was the hardest with him, sending him veiled threats if he happened to withhold information that could put them in danger.

Through Rose’s other memories, Rose knew Hellions from the ancient world still existed; she was perplexed by his reason to be so secretive. The hidden village, settlement or whatever place Zaveid was leading them into wasn't the only place in the world were Hellions lived.

If Zaveid’s family was like the others, they were powerless, mere relics of their people's former glory and were no threat to them. For Rose, Lunarre should be the only Hellion they should worry about. However that kind of information was no use to the others and even though she felt like Lunarre had something to do with this, they couldn't ignore the direct threat that was the Divine Dragon. She could only hope it wasn't a big enough distraction to allow him to do something worse than unleashing a millennia old wild Dragon on a high populated city.

Lost in her thought, Rose failed to notice as the tree copse grew thicker around them and the dirt path under their foot becoming nothing more than animal trail, obviously less frequented than the main road from which they came. Yet, the slight change in Zaveid's stance didn't escape her. It was all it took to help Rose refocus on the present. 

Previously, Zaveid had dodged questions with smiles and witty answers, but when the questions eventually stopped, the group tensing with anticipation, he was the tensest of all of them. With his golden eyes shifting as he carefully read the winds, Zaveid’s pace slowed almost imperceptibly.

That kind of behavior was familiar to Rose, something she already observed in another wind Seraph. The winds weren't the same around here.

Finally, the hem of Dezel's hat covering his eyes, Zaveid confessed that bringing human's in there would eventually mean he would be banned from the place for the next thousands of years, maybe more. He was breaking the most important rule.

It was all it took for Sorey to change the subject, his curiosity about those Hellion's survival, tradition and morals forgotten on his tongue.

Nevertheless, it didn't stop Mikleo from hovering over him like a mother hen, and Rose would never tire of chuckling at that.

They were now following what looked more like an animal trail, weeds and dry grass getting caught and stuck into Rose's clothes. It went everywhere in her boots and socks, itching her skin. A wiry branch nearly struck her in the face when Lailah let it go without checking behind her, Rose's resulting growl making her sputter in apologies.

Well, it was Lailah. As pissed and grumpy the whole situation made her, Rose couldn't start getting angry at Lailah. The whole ordeal made her oblivious to the fact that Zaveid had stopped, grinning at them with his hands on his hips.

He had led them into a cul-de-sac.

There was nothing behind him but bushes, more threes and the rock bottom of a cliff. No wonder there was little to no sun filtering there. Rose let out a sigh.

Some seconds of silence passed and Rose started to tap her foot. Zaveid bowed his head looking at the white mushroom poking out of the soil.

"What now." Edna’s deadpan voice broke through the silence like a sharp knife.

Zaveid flinched visibly. He fiddled with the end of his leather cuff. He shook his head.

" That’s it, I'm sure I'll be kicked out again." he breathed.

Rose's brow lifted in wonder, "Again?"

Zaveid shrugged, "Listen, those Hellions are a bunch of wildling, after the Dragoon campaign, humans chased them to the end of the world and tried to kill every last one of them, they will be wary of you guys. You must be careful with what you say or do."

Sorey nodded with enthusiasm, "They are a secluded civilization living entirely separated from our own and our influence! It would be incredibly rude to look too closely because that could be akin to staring and staring is rude."

"I'll be watching the idiot." Mikleo added poking Sorey's ribs.

Before this could escalate into a tickle fight, Zaveid cleared his throat, "Rose, you must give me your word too."

"Whatever he said. As long as we get that staff." She said.

She wanted this to be over with as soon as possible. Any seconds they lost were given to Lunarre. The thought made Rose boil inwardly, her teeth grinding tighter she had to breathe through her nose and focus on the present.

The tips of Zaveid’s fingers lit with the concentrated green of his wind based magic. Mumbling something under his breath he traced some sort of runes into the air.

It was impossible to conceal her sharp intake of breath, as the mushrooms around them lit up like small glowing lamps, all around them the mushroom started to glow. Alisha would have loved that.

Shaking the thought out of her head, Rose held onto the fact it would make a wonderful story she could tell her love later. For now, she awed as the mushrooms glowing gathered into small, fireflies like balls of light and swarmed together before Zaveid.

Her fun was a bit thwarted by the lovesick expression Mikleo had when looking at Sorey’s eyes as they reflected the lights. Scrunching her nose, Rose wished with all her heart that she didn't look like that when staring at Alisha.

"Is that… a portal?" Sorey asked.

Zaveid smirked, "First time seeing one, is it?"

"Zaveid opened that. How can we be certain it won't send us in the middle of the ocean or something?" 

Edna had a point and everyone seemed to agree with her. In a single coordinated movement all heads turned sharply toward Zaveid, waiting for the confirmation. He grimaced, hurt by their distrust. Well, he was the one hiding Hellions from them, who knew how far he would go to protect their secret hideout? Zaveid would need to work hard to fully be a member of their group again.

Rose’s eyes deviated to Sorey, green eyes already shining as he considered the portal. At least there was someone whose faith wouldn't be so hard to win back.

"So much faith in me. I guess I earned that." Zaveid complained, faking a whine.

Good for him, if he was aware of his misdeed, he could start to redeem himself.

Grabbing the tip of Zaveid’s long hairs, Lailah gave a light tug, "You should have told us about your family before. It's not healthy for the group to hold that kind of information. She said, punctuating her words with tugs.

Rose swallowed, feeling her nape getting a bit damp, the chocker around her neck feeling like it was branding her skin. Her eyes lingered over Sorey and the weight of the things she was hiding from them fell like a rock in the pit of her stomach. Because she could accuse Zaveid all she wanted, Lailah was right and Rose wasn't much better. It was easy to dismiss though, Rose had done that nearly her whole life.

"Enough tergiversating, he just should go first." She gestured at Zaveid then at the portal.

Rolling his eyes, it was Zaveid’s turn to sigh, "Just, stay close to me. If they see strangers coming untimely they will think I'd been followed and start to attack."

With that, he turned toward the portal and stepped inside with confidence, his silhouette swallowed by the low glowing light.

Maybe she had been the first to protest but opening her umbrella, Edna was the first to follow after him and soon Rose was left alone in the weird shrubbery. She shivered, a bad feeling making its way inside her. She breathed deep as she stepped in.

The first thing she registered was that she had closed her eyes, and then it was the brightness against her closed lids. There were voices, one gravely and sharp, obviously male and another one, soft but syrupy, like an older women trying to seduce someone with her tone. 

Eventually remembering that her eyes had to be open in order for her to see something, Rose's lids flew open making her flinch at the sudden brightness.

She had felt a rush of something familiar upon arriving and now she understood why. It was like they weren't in the same forest anymore, with the closeness of the Earthpusle thrumming in rhythm with her won heart, synching with the dragoon spirit in her pocket. It was invigorating and judging by the deep breath Mikleo took beside her, she wasn't the only one feeling that.

It was no wonder the village could be hidden for so long, Rose had to grant it to whoever chose this place. It was clever in using Soa's roots.

The portal had led them to a large clearing into the forest, trees still surrounded the place in thick walls but the area they appeared in was open to the sky, the wind blowing into Rose. They were high up, on top of some hill. She was surprised to find the hardness of flagstone under her boot rather than the dirt path.

Rose lifted her head blinking, her sight being greeted with a creature as tall as a man, with arms and legs like a man but with a head and tail and scales covered skin of a lizard. His clothes looked human made too, tough old fashioned. The fabric had been torn at the legs and arm to accommodate the lizard man’s larger frame. He was staring at the group, mouth full of sharp teeth agape, eyes with split pupils wide in astonishment.

He was sitting on a rocky wall, a stone railing of some sort one of his clawed feet dangling over the edge. In front of him was a chessboard. And at the other side of that chessboard was what Rose could only identify as a grey Normin with a pointy hat and red lipstick over cat's lips.

"Zaveid back already…those are…you bought humans here?"

The gravelly voice belonged to the lizard man then. Rose’s gaze shifted from him to Zaveid, her hand discreetly coming to land on her knife handle. If things came to worse, she knew she couldn't handle a whole Hellion settlement. It didn't mean she wouldn't try.

A sound came from Sorey’s throat but Mikleo stopped him before he could try anything, putting his arm on Sorey’s chest to prevent him from stepping in as well. The situation was tense and the lizard man’s wariness of humans wouldn't be favorable to Sorey's skills in defusing tension.

It was the Normin that talked first, cutting through the stiffness with her soft voice, "Don't fret, Dyle." She waved her tiny arm and the lizard man’s shoulders sagged," I'm sure he has his reason. Maybe you should go and inform the Ancient, hum?"

Dyle, the lizard man, seemed torn between the Normin and Zaveid. Gaze shifting between the two lifting his hands on a tentative to appease him, Zaveid was met with a sharp glare.

"I'll go fetch him, don't go easy on him because he is an old friend, Grimoirh. The rules are the same for everyone," Then he pointed a clawed fingers at Zaveid, eyes narrowing dangerously, "And don't try anything funny pretty boy or I'll be on your ass."

Hopping from the railing, Dyle bolted through a large stairwell that marked the entrance through the Hellion's hidden village. His tail disappeared after him when he took a turn. Rose’s nose caught the smell of magic then faint and distant like it was diluted through water. Hellion's presence here was certain but it was weak and ancient. She wasn't better than Sorey at hiding her want to go down and see the village as Rose could feel him discreetly lean over her to better see what was beyond the stairs while trying not to offend anyone, his curiosity greater than the threat of an unknown place.

"Thank you, Dyle." Zaveid called after the lizard man, suddenly remembering how to talk.

Grimoirh let out a loud sigh, shaking her head then hopped before the group, "Back already, Zaveid? There’s usually more than decades between your visits." Again she sighed dramatically, "Bringing Humans here, really? You are sure like trouble it seems."

Hand on her hips. She planted herself before Zaveid glaring at him. He shuddered, jaw working as he tried to find words to explain. Now Rose was certain his attitude as they went through the forest could be explained with the fact that he had been trying to find what to say for this exact same moment, and though he must have found something, unexpectedly words failed him.

"So cool."

Rose heard the slight whisper beside her, so low she thought she had imagined it but hiding behind her umbrella, Edna's eyes were filled with interest, her body language showing just how much she refrained from touching Grimoirh. Well, Rose too was impressed that someone could render Zaveid speechless with only their eyes and body language, she could relate. And there was the fact that Edna had a Normin doll strapped to her umbrella, maybe Rose should read something more in her tightly veiled interest. Edna didn't really hide that she liked cute things.

Sorey wasn't so restrained. There was nothing Mikleo could do to keep him from bowing to Grimoirh. "Nice to meet you miss Grimoirh, I'm Sorey and here are my friends and travel companions." He introduced before Grimoirh interrupted him, lifting her hand,

"Well, aren't you to polite one? Don't bother, I heard about all of you enough to recognize everyone. Zaveid likes to talk, a lot." 

Zaveid’s tanned skin made it harder to see, but Rose was sure it was a blush spreading on his cheeks, Grimoirh continued, undeterred by the wind seraph sputtering as he tried to explain himself.

With a smile she pointed at Sorey, "You, you must be Sorey, so beside you is Mikleo," Mikleo nodded smiling, but she ignored him and pointed at Lailah, "Nice taste in fashion, you must be Lailah then," Lailah covered her mouth with both her hands embarrassed and delighted at once, "The small but powerful one is Edna," Rose heard Edna breathe something that sounded a lot like uncool, obviously disliking her presentation.

Then Grimoirh turned toward Rose, she couldn't help but gulp under the scrutinizing black gaze as the Normin adjusted her small round glasses. "And the last one’s name is Rose." 

It wasn't that Rose was offended to have been picked last. It was just she had the impression that she was being apprised like a fine good on a merchant stall, like Grimoirh could see through her and her armor. Like she knew Rose was hiding something.

"Miss Grimoirh," Rose answered politely, bowing her head to return the greeting.

"There is a reason I brought them here, we have no time to lose. You must have felt it too, the Divine Dragon woke-"

"You have no right to talk until I give you permission for it."

Zaveid’s mouth snapped shut, while Edna snickered and Lailah hummed in consideration, Rose appreciated the efficiency suddenly very impressed by the grey Normin. She certainly radiated authority when she raised her voice like that. Then Grimoirh snorted.

"I jest, you big oaf of a seraph. Look at you. Everyone here felt the Dragon awakening. We were actually waiting for you. Humans are a surprise, however." 

The tone of Grimoirh’s voice changed completely, turning playful and giggling. It seemed a weight was lifted from Zaveid’s shoulders. He relaxed visibly, running his palm against his forehead in relief,

"No one wants to end up on your bad side, Grimoirh. You know how to hurt a man when you are angry. I really thought you wanted my skin there." 

Rose rolled her eyes at Zaveid.

Grimoirh turned, ignoring him, "Dyle sure is taking his sweet time, as you said we don't have much time left. Come on follow me then, I'll lead you to the Ancient. Rose and Sorey must keep a low profile, we have elders that were still children in the Dragon Campaign here and some still haven't forgotten the purge the Humans reigned on the vanquished Hellions back then."

"Whoa! The Dragon Campaign was eleven thousand years ago! You heard that Mikleo? We could ask them so many questions! Maybe some of them are even older than Gramps?"

"Sorey." said Mikleo, looking at Sorey with sorrow, shaking his head "We cannot talk to them." 

Rose heard Mikleo's own frustration plain as day.

"But-"

She flinched at the look Sorey's sent him. Mikleo was the weakest target to those puppy dog eyes.

Grimoirh ended Mikleo's suffering, planting herself in front of Sorey, "They may be old and their magic thin but they have blades and know how to use it. I'm sorry sweetheart but there is no way we could allow them to meet you."

The sudden dousing of Sorey’s enthusiast was painful to watch and for a second Rose almost proposed to introduce him to a less vindictive survivor from the Campaign. She had to admit to herself that she too was weak to that look. But she couldn't tell him that.  There were worse secrets hidden than one chosen family.

Patting Sorey on the back in solidarity, Rose offered him a companionate glance. It was all she could do.

"Maybe one day." She breathed earning a grateful smile.

Clearing her throat to gather their attention, Grimoirh gestured for them to follow her, "Let's proceed." She opened the way, hopping down the stairs.

As they climbed down the stairs the Seraphs instinctively formed a circle around Rose and Sorey, protecting them from unwanted stares and trouble. It was a weird feeling, being at once encased by their protectiveness but also restrained like they were unsightly. Rose would have thought it would have affected Sorey but he had regained the bounce in his step, taking in the sight as the village opened in front of them.

It was a wilder thing that Rose had anticipated, a stream gently running between old as balls willow trees and a faded stone path. At first Rose noticed that there wasn’t any type of housing but lifting her head she saw among tall and sturdy branches the structures of all colors and all shapes, from a shell to a tower hanging from the taller trees. Sorey let out an awed sound beside her. There were few people mingling around, Rose took a glimpse of a pink feathered woman looking down on them from her perch on a tree branch.

Edna gagged when Zaveid winked at her as she retreated behind the leaves with a melodious giggle.

It took some minutes of walking before Sorey started to inwardly boil again, the way he played with his feather earing telling just how much he was restraining himself. It was becoming really annoying, and to be fair Rose wouldn't mind knowing the answer to whatever question he had. She was motioning to nudge him with her elbow when he opened his mouth.

"Miss Grimoirh, if I may ask a question, you are a Seraph Normin, right?" Sorey asked without hesitation, changing the target of his insatiable thirst for knowledge. "I was wondering, aren't seraph and Hellions mortal enemies too? I mean, I though Seraph and Humans allied to end the Hellions oppression, yet you are living with them."

That was a good question, indeed. Rose hummed under her breath thinking about reasons why.

Grimoirh smirked at him over her shoulder," You must have met one of my kind before. There are about hundreds of us scattered around the world but the others are rather… well,  let's say they prefer going with the flow, though Normin like to help by nature I'm more of  woman of action. But I digress, to answer your question, with the Hellions defeated and their magic thinning, humans sought to eradicate them from the surface but Seraphim understood they have something in common that Humans could never understand. It felt natural to protect what remained of them."

His expression souring at the mention that humans would have eradicated Hellion's if not for the Seraphs, Mikleo sighed, "Gramps told us something like that when I still a child. I asked why there weren't any other humans like Sorey in Elysia." he interjected, worrying his lips, "He told me that Human fear what they couldn't understand, like our magic, it was better to hide from them."

Sorey looked pained when he glanced at Mikleo.

"Humans can be more than stupid, often they don't think of the consequences of their actions before it's too late." Edna added scrunching her nose in distaste, "They are egoist."

Touching her lips Lailah starting to consider her next words, "But we have seen proof that they only need to be pushed the right way sometimes. And with youngsters like Rose, Alisha and Sorey I can have faith in the futures generations."

Grimoirh nodded, "Let's hope we all could live together one day."

Lailah fiddled with the hem of her vest, "I would have done the same." She seemed troubled looking at the ground as they walked, "All my life I thought Hellions were only the result of malevolence, yet there isn't such a thing here, and it's all so peaceful."

Biting her lips, Rose could almost feel the gears in Lailah's mind working as she tried to integrate the fact that all her beliefs, probably what she had revolved her life around proved to be different than what she thought. Rose knew just how excruciating that could be. She went through the same thing when she put her choker on and all her world realigned.

She was trying to come up with comforting words, something she had repeated to herself time and time again but the straightening of Lailah's back as she seemed to regain her energy, hiding her distress behind her cheerful façade was Rose’s cue to keep that conversation for a more private moment with Lailah.

"I do wonder though, How Zaveid, lone Dragon hunter always on the road came to be accepted in this hidden village as part of it. And even the inhabitant of his family." Lailah asked a sliver of mischief in her tone.

Grimoirh chuckled when Zaveid let out a nervous laughter he tried but failed to hide with a cough.

"She has a point, Zaveid. You were so careful in hiding them from us. Is it so embarrassing admitting you care?" Rose couldn't help but tease him too.

"Grampveid’s reputation as a lone wolf is crumbling to dust before our eyes. All hail to the new Dadveid that breastfeed orphaned Hellion's babies!" Edna scored. 

Zaveid moaned in pain when Edna's declaration was followed by laughter. Grimoirh had to shush them, reminding the group not to attract too much attention when she was herself barely recovering from her fit of laughter.

Sighing, Zaveid admitted, "You got me there. I…Not all of them are part of my family to be precise. I came to make my home here out of love for someone. Everything I do is out of love."

It was obvious he was hiding the complete truth again with the way he was talking loud with his hands on his hips. Edna was scowling at him, the way she threw him a side glance, Zaveid was doomed.

"Eizen came home more often than you did when you were travelling together. You don't love anyone enough to stay here more often." Edna called him out.

It was painful to watch Edna’s stance changing ever so slightly, mellowing when Zaveid's fingers dug into the meat of a tanned arm as he crossed his arms over his chest, defending himself against them. He looked up, but Dezel's hat couldn't hide the pain in his smile right under Rose's nose.

"The Hellions here don't emit malevolence because they were born Hellions, malevolence came after when their leader imprisoned the gods and then they started changing becoming crueler and infecting others species… she… she was a kind soul, always willing to help but it eventually-"

"That thing!"

Cutting through the atmosphere that had started to weigh a ton around them, Sorey’s enthused exclamation thankfully stopped Zaveid from saying more. It had started to grow awkward, Rose feeling like they never needed to hear his confession anyway. The way Sorey distracted everyone away from Zaveid proved that she wasn't the only one feeling like that.

Stooping in the middle of the road, Sorey was nearly jumping on Mikleo to better see what was ahead of him. The joyous voices rose around them, high pitched and juvenile obviously belonging to a group of children, then come the rumbling sound of something familiar, like a wooden wheel on a rocky path.

"Look Mikleo, the kids are sliding down the slope with it!"

Rose leaned over Lailah, frowning in confusion then eyes widening in astonishment when she saw the children, one small with a blackened nose, elongated ears, beady yellow eyes and green skin, the other a fuzzy black wolf standing on two legs and the third a long haired girl whose hair looked made of vines. But what caught Sorey’s attention wasn’t the children.

"The design! The small wheels, the cart, the gaudy ornamentation… I love it! Can I try it? Can I go ask them for a ride?" 

It was baffling, Sorey couldn't stop praising that children's cart. But the thing was ugly, hideous, rickety and barely holding yet Rose swore she had never seen Sorey so adamant in wanting to try something new.

Grimoirh must have been surprised too because she forgot to stop him before the children noticed their presence, Sorey's attracting their attention. They had stopped playing wary of the stranger. It was only when he felt their fearful eyes on him that Sorey stopped. The werewolf kid even hid behind the cart, ears flattened against his skull in fright.

Taking a step back, Sorey leaned his head, avoiding direct eyes contact, "I'm sorry. It wasn't my intension to interrupt you." he said.

The werewolf kid growled but then the goblin kid stepped in front of his cart, hushed whispers from his friends trying to stop him.

"Y-you are a human, right?" he asked timidly, barely looking at Sorey.

"Misha!" the one who Rose assumed was a girl called.

Sorey nodded, "Yes, but fear not I'm not here to do any harm to you people."

Mikleo was still between the kids and Sorey, gaze shifting between the kids and Grimoirh, waiting for her to do or say something, but she was merely observing the scene, a curious expression making part of her painted lips lift. Zaveid too was a shadow behind Sorey's back and Rose could see the goblin kid look at him in expectation, as if looking for approval.

The kid, Misha, looked down, disturbing the grass with a clawed foot, "I huh, I heard you talking about my cart. If… maybe if you want I can let you ride on it."

It surprised Rose, it was hope, and it was an extended hand for the future generation. Rose liked that. Lailah was nearly vibrating with joy as Sorey couldn't contain his.

"Yes! I would love too! if that’s okay! I mean, I not supposed to, but I-"

"Maybe later, Misha. For now I have some urgent matter to discuss with our guests." Another young voice came from atop the slope the kids had hurtled down with their cart.

"Phi! You should have waited for us." Zaveid launched waiving happily as the newcomer climbed down the slope.

"Ancient." Misha and the others greeted, nodding at the other.

That kid was the ancient?

The young voice belonged  to a blond boy, his hair reaching to his chin was white at the tip he wore a beige with yellow hem seraph robe with a large collar around his neck and a small blue cape over his shoulder. It was rather an old fashioned style that had Rose wonder if Seraphs were interested in fashion and maybe she could start something there…she could already see all the money she could make with her own brand of seraph clothing.

"I think Rose is angry, she is drooling." Edna deadpanned bringing Rose back to reality.

When that Phi kid arrived, Zaveid couldn't help but to hug him.

"Sorry I couldn't see you when you came by last time." the small seraph excused himself hugging Zaveid back.

It was odd, Zaveid’s larger frame nearly engulfing the kid yet he was delicate and nearly bending in half as he barely lifted the other from the ground. Maybe it was out of respect or something, but they didn't get stared at for it, likely everyone was used to seeing them.

"It's all right. I came back anyway."

As if suddenly remembering they weren't alone, Phi backed away from Zaveid, "Oh, right, nice to meet you everyone, I'm Laphicet."

With a big smile and a ruffle of Laphicet’s hair, Zaveid showed him off to everyone, "Phi here is my family."

They both smiled the same way, and if there was doubt they were related the similitude of their expression was proof enough they had spent a lot of time together.

It was a lot for Edna who was barely hiding her jubilation, her lip trembling with suppressed laughter, "Wait," she pointed at Zaveid, "You mean he is your kid or something." Then at Laphicet, "pffft."

Laphicet’s lemon green eyes grew wide in bewilderment, "You look like-" then he looked back at Zaveid, "Is she?" Zaveid nodded, Laphicet looked at Edna some more, her eyes narrowing in annoyance, "You are so pretty! No wonder Eizen tried to hide you from us." 

His smile was so blinding it rivaled Sorey’s. Thinking about him, Rose ignored the others with Lailah's gushing as her cue to stop following that conversation and looked back at Sorey. He was still eyeing Misha's cart amorously while the three kids were retreating further under the cluster of trees and houses, waving goodbye. One of Mikleo's hands was holding his cloak, and maybe he was trying to be discreet about it but Rose could see how the other was hooked around Sorey's waist under those clothes. There was no way he could bolt and go after that goblin cart being held like that.

Rose let out a weary sigh, it wasn't even noon yet she felt like it had been a long day.

With Laphicet’s affirmation that he was more of Zaveid's older brother than his child, Rose turned her attention back to them as the wind seraph protested,

"My older brother? I'm the older one here." He ruffled Laphicet’s hair again, mussing the blond head.

There was a long unruly lock of hair that kept springing on top of Laphicet's hair, bouncing with the wind.

"Well, I'm the more mature. That makes me the older brother."

"Bang, Zaveid zero points, Laphicet one point." Edna added.

Red bloomed along Laphicet’s pale cheeks, "So pretty."

It was the last straw for Rose, while her heart warmed with feelings she refused to attach herself too she rolled her eyes, "I think we were about to go somewhere before your noble Ancient here fell in love?"

Laphicet seemed to have been doused in cold water, that weird lock flattening with his mood, "Oh right, follow me then," he didn't even look back as he retreated.

It almost made Rose feel bad, but then Edna was blinking at her, "Do you think I was too harsh?"

A smirk lifted the corner of Edna's lips, "Not in the least. I'm a good teacher."

Lifting a brow in wonder, Rose watched as everyone started to follow Laphicet. Edna had a bounce in her step.

Chapter Text

Though he knew how impolite it was, Mikleo couldn't help but to watch as Grimoirh maneuvered between the furniture, intending to serve them some beverages while they all sat in what was probably Laphicet’s living room.

Probably was the word because the room was an identifiable mess of carved wood, scattered maps, books and other trinkets that made Mikleo unable to refrain from smiling from how much it reminded him of someone.

 The difference was in the fact that Laphicet's house was carved into a giant three trunk, thus the atmosphere all the wood gave was pretty different from back home. It didn't seem prudent to light a fire in a hearth here. Though, Mikleo’s quick appraisal of the place had him spotting some pipes and lighting system he couldn't understand, balls of light coming to life in their glass prison when the child looking seraph entered before them.

The chair Laphicet chose for himself, pushing away some books that fell at his feet in the process, making Mikleo audibly wince at the poor treatment, seemed to have been carved from the very tree they had entered. Delicate flowers lined the armrests, and a plush red cushion covered the otherwise hard seat.

This place was built entirely on top of an earthpulse point, and Laphicet's house may have been the closest thing to Soa's roots in the entire village. It was like being immersed into a pool of mana and all that power surrounding Mikleo was starting to make him fidgety.

He knew he wasn't the only one affected. The way Edna’s foot or Edna’s feet bounced from where she sat to the way Lailah’s eyes lingered in the small fire on the stove Grimoirh used to boil water, a look of longing gracing her features, Zaveid's hair looking fluffier than usual, all were the sign of Seraphs surrounded by raw mana.

It was starting to make Mikleo forget he was supposed to be the polite and stoic one. Though he had fallen asleep with the feeling of Sorey's kisses lingering on his lips, he was craving his lover's contact, images of lightly callused hands rubbing over his skin, faint smell of leather and Sorey's shampoo filling his nose.

Mikleo was literally brimming with energy right now, the blue stone resting against his forehead growing warm from it, singing a soft song that only Mikleo could hear. His shoulder brushed against Sorey as he instantly leaned toward his familiar scent, and it was like lightning struck him, Mikleo barely restraining a sigh as he righted himself in his seat. He fakes coughed, catching Edna rolling his eyes at him. The tree bark of the log he was invited to rest upon rubbed against his pants, while uncomfortable the feeling helped him to get a grasp on the situation.

Laphicet was thanking Grimoirh while she handed him a steaming clay cup. He blew on it before taking a sip. His pale green eyes lighting with delight, he resumed their conversation, seemingly unaware of Mikleo’s little slip.

"So Zenrus thinks that with the Dragon Blocking Staff you'll have a chance against the Divine Dragon?"

"That, and relying on our Dragoon's powers," Rose added as she accepted a cup from Grimoirh. "Lunarre stole the Dragon Buster, so the Staff is our last resort." She hissed the last part.

Mikleo declined the one offered to him, his stomach twisting even more with the way Laphicet frowned at Rose's comment.

"Men like hat him… something must be done to stop him." he mumbled, the phrase more for himself. He closed his eyes as he thought and with a sigh Laphicet conceded, "Zenrus is right, though. The Divine Dragon is waking from a long slumber and is weakened. Taking it down would be now or never." He added, shaking his head.

And time was exactly what was making Mikleo anxious. The Dragon could be already raining misery upon Deningrad as they spoke and drank tea. He was itching to tell Laphicet to go straight to the point and tell them where the staff was so they could get it but it was clashing with that other part of him that was fascinated by everything surrounding him, happy to bask in the earthpulse’s gentle current. Everything here was intriguing, to the Hellion's contraptions and houses, to their way of living and dealing with their magic to the playing kids. How did it work here? What was Laphicet’s role? He couldn't even sense his element, yet there unmistakably was a lot of power inside the tiny body. So much Mikleo was inclined to feel respect and a sort of reverence toward him, much like with Gramps.

Mikleo wanted to know so much more, he wanted to ask so many questions but one glance at Sorey was enough to know that he had to focus on the mission. He couldn't allow Sorey to be the mature one this time.

"Whoa, what is that thing? I'm feeling all invigorated!" Sorey suddenly exclaimed, his outburst effectively bringing Mikleo out of his circling thoughts.

"You dork, that’s because it's apple gel tea." Replied Edna as she drank too "Did you ever taste one?"

Sorey and Mikleo shared a glance in which Mikleo tried to convey all of  his disapproval of Sorey's behavior, and just when he had thought Sorey was acting like an adult for once… but it was a fight lost long ago and Sorey merely shrugged.

"I didn't know we could lace tea with apple gel, it's nice." He took another sip, humming under his breath in appreciation.

The bright smile Laphicet gave them showed that he was in no way offended by Sorey's attitude, and though it reassured Mikleo, he still crossed his arms over his chest, discreetly poking Sorey's side with a hidden finger. As if to antagonize him further, Sorey sent him a knowing smirk over the brim of his cup.

 "It's Grimoirh’s special recipe the water she uses from here benefit from being over the earthpulse." Laphicet explained.

Grimoirh huffed, filching a lock of hair as she raised her chin proudly. Without Mikleo noticing he had stopped paying attention to her and she was not sitting near the group with a book open, pretending not to have any interest in their conversation.

"You'll need it." She mumbled, cryptic.

There was a moment of silence following her statement, the conversation lulling while thoughts were processed.

It was Zaveid who broke it first, leaning himself against Laphicet’s armrest.

"The old man seemed really persuaded you'd know were the staff is hidden.  I swear, if he was making assumption because you choose to live with Hellions-"

Mikleo opened his mouth, words of protest that Gramps was not like that, that he would never think lowly of someone for that…if that was what Zaveid was hinting but Laphicet beat him to it.

"Actually it was Zenrus who told me to hide it, he had faith in my bonds with the Hellions," Laphicet answered, back straightening on his seat, "I'm sure he would have chosen to help and protect them too if he had the power to." his gaze was hard on Zaveid.

Zaveid shrugged, "I wasn't aware you met Zenrus before. You all sure like to keep the younger in the dark, and I'm the one being accused on hiding things." He said and though his glance at Mikleo was quick it wasn't missed.

 Mikleo glared back.

"I'm sorry but some things must remain unsaid." Laphicet concluded

Mikleo's nose scrunched, he had enough of those Seraphs taboos and habits of keeping things to themselves. When he and Sorey would come back home, they would have a lot of work to do. He would write his own Celestial Record and this one would delve more into the actual facts than legend and conjectures. They had after all, traveled more than the book author.

"You have the power of purification. That's why you can protect them."

Lailah’s statement surprised Mikleo away from his thought on the future. His eyes widened as he processed her words because it made so much sense. Holding his chin in his hand as inwardly made puzzle pieces fit together, Mikleo felt the realization wash over him like a small wave. There was no malevolence here because Laphicet was using his purification powers.

Maybe… it wouldn't be too farfetched to think that it was a seraph with the same kind of power that was sacrificed to make the silver dragoon's spirit. An image of a young seraph giving his live (life) away in hope of freeing the world from Hellion's domination, no, from malevolent Hellions domination struck him and he had to swallow to ease the lump forming in his throat.

 He could feel Sorey tense slightly beside him, and Mikleo had no doubt he had reached a similar conclusion.

 Lailah fiddled with the hem of her dress as Laphicet exchanged glances with her. His slight surprise turning gentle, the hint of pain his eyes striking like a whip against Mikleo's flesh. But it disappeared so quickly it must have been his imagination.

As Laphicet inclined his head in though, his lower lip jutted out, "You must really be used to being around that power to tell so easily." Then his eyes lit up in recognition, "Were you perhaps the seraph tasked with guarding the Silver White spirit until the times were ready to know a new shepherd? I heard the rumor but-" He was nearly bouncing on his seat, so eager to know.

"That's a rather warm and cozy house you have, here" Lailah burst out interrupting him, by loudly slapping her palm together, "I hope it doesn't mean you have an axe to grind, though." She smiled brightly at him. "Get it? Because everything here is made of wood."

Confusion passing quickly over his features, Laphicet let out an undignified snort, unable to restrain himself though he tried to hide his giggle behind his fist, "That was a good pun." He admitted.

Lailah beamed.

"She's under an oath," Edna supplied, the roll of her eyes nearly audible "Please, don't encourage her."

But there was a resigned sigh in her word, because she too knew it was a lost cause even before Laphicet blinked, eyes darting from Edna to Lailah

"Eh? But it was really good."

Edna sighed loudly this time, earning herself a chuckle from Mikleo that he was more than ready to pay for later. She was already sending a death glare at him but it was worth it.

"You really think so, what about that one? What is the best way to carve wood? Whittle by Whittle."

Laphicet exploded in laughter and Lailah was ecstatic, eyes bright and pumping her fist in victory. To be fair, Laphicet’s laughter was contagious that why Mikleo and some of the others started to laugh too. As Laphicet started to calm down, he brushed some stray tears out of his eyes, fighting fits of giggles. To be honest, it was doing something to Mikleo's moral to hear him laugh like that. He shook his head in disbelief, meeting Sorey's eyes with a smile, if their fingers found each other's it had nothing to do with the sudden lift in his mood.

Laphicet cleared his throat as he tried to dry the tears from his eyes." Enough, Enough, we…we were discussing a serious matter."

Zaveid nudged him, "Well, yes although does this mean you'll approve my marriage with Lailah?" he asked looking deeply serious.

"Not even in a thousand years." Lailah replied instead in a sing song voice, face full of mirth and smile.

It didn't fail to send Laphicet into a fit of hysterical laughter and this time even Edna chuckled though Mikleo could tell she was half way from throwing a book at Zaveid's head. Mikleo leaned some more against Sorey, there was a quiet and steady beat against his arm from its contact with Sorey's chest. He couldn't help but close his eyes in bliss as the beat seemed to pulse in sync with the mana around them. He hadn't noticed that it was quiet again.

"Ah well, it sure feels nice to have a good laugh. But as I was trying to say, I hid the Dragon Blocking Staff far away, and though I can bring you close to it, you'll have to find it by yourselves. Now that Grimoirh's tea effects are active we can proceed."

Mikleo was reluctant to leave Sorey's warmth, it was his lover’s movement that forced him to open his eyes and focus back on Laphicet

"You are right," Lailah said, standing up. "We would stay longer but we have to leaf soon."

Laphicet chuckled again but he was keeping his stance as he too stood and walked toward a strange carving in the wall. "This is a shortcut."

He rapped on the wall twice with his knuckle and one after the other marking lit up to form an arc, then when all the marking were ready, a portal similar to the one that brought them into the hidden village formed where the wall stood before.

Laphicet nodded, looking at them with confidence as he crossed the portal, "I'll meet you there." he said before being swallowed by the light.

 There were little hesitations as to follow him through it. Rose and Lailah went first, Mikleo still processing what had happened, lingering on the feelings of want and need that had suddenly burst into him when he had gotten too close to Sorey. It didn't help that Sorey was the one helping him up, concerned that Mikleo was blinking drunkenly at him.

"Maybe you shouldn't have refused my tea, you seem quite tired." Grimoirh honeyed voice commented.

Mikleo shook his head, regaining some sense, "Ah thank you. I think it would have been too much for me right now."

"Mikleo is rather sensitive to the earthpulse." Sorey smirked, already too much aware of what was transpiring within Mikleo.

Edna stopped before him, umbrella hitting the floor to gather attention "We could all feel those vibes Hornyleo, maybe try to keep it down next time, it was rather improper of you." the way her voice lifted at the end made Mikleo’s skin raise. She crossed the portal with a huff before he could even formulate a reply.

His breath caught in the implication that even Sorey actually felt his thought because damn him for being born a water seraph whose mana flowed back and forth like a current, had he actually been sweeping everyone with his flow being drunk from the earthpulse? He looked back at Sorey’s eyes wide and cheeks flaming from embarrassment. There was no salvation on those green eyes, only more teasing because yes, Sorey had felt everything.

Zaveid brought a friendly hand on his shoulder, "You can't help being young."

Zaveid went away too while Mikleo screeched and hid his face between his hands.

Then there was Sorey who hooked his arm under his, green eyes reflecting the low light from the portal, "Come on, Hornyleo, we have a Staff to retrieve before anything else."

Together they crossed the portal and Mikleo actually screamed in shame.

As they emerged through the other side, the wood under their feet was replaced by the dark granite of a plateau. There were high up winds ruffling Mikleo's hair as he observed how tiny the Hellion's house from the village had become. He could see the Evergreen forest in the distance and to the north the White Mountain nursing Deningrad.

His attention finally turning toward the plateau, Mikleo startled all embarrassment forgotten, Sorey exclaiming his appreciation at the same time Rose let out a loud gasp. Edna was as unreadable as ever though there was a glint in the blue of her eyes and Lailah had hidden her mouth behind her hands. The only one that didn't seem surprised was Zaveid. But that in itself shouldn't have retained Mikleo's attention.

The second of panic he had when finding out that instead of a blond boy now stood a large pure white Dragon was defused when he met the Dragon's eyes. Gentle, bright and pale green eyes full of intelligence and a bit of shame if Mikleo was reading correctly.

Instinctively, his mind turned toward Eizen and Edna, memories of her brother turned feral without a hint of recognition as he attacked his sister were still fresh. As much as he knew how mature she was about it and how much she wouldn't want being pitied, Mikleo couldn't help but feel miserable for her.

"Oh, oh Sorry. I forgot the portal would force me into my true form, I should have warned you."

It was strange when the only Dragon's ever met where mere beast, wild and violent and there was that huge Dragon, whose wings could envelop the whole group in their shadows, while one single of his claw could encircle Sorey's entire frame that stood there trying to be cautious of its movement, talking with them with sheepishness in his boyish voice.

"This is you true form? You look so flashy! Do you ever shed those scales?" Rose asked.

Mikleo swore he heard her mumble 'they must sell a good price'. He cleared his throat to hide his reaction.

"Mhm, I've been like that for a while now, I somehow grew too powerful as a seraph and then turned into a Dragon. Oh, but be reassured, I was never malevolent."

A steady noise attracted Mikleo’s attention while Laphicet tried to explain himself, leaning his head he saw the Dragon tail drag slightly into the dirt, like a nervous cat flicking its tail. Again, Mikleo had to bit the inside of his cheek to prevent the amused smile that was about to form.

"That-That’s incredible! You are leaving proof that a seraph turned Dragon-"

"That’s not it, Sorey."

Of course Sorey would be the first to think about the promise he made to Edna, that Zaveid would be the one to stop him before he could put hope into her eyes, seriousness etched into his features was rather unexpected.

 "Even Laphicet's power isn't enough to purify a Dragon Seraph. I would have tried it if…"

Silence followed his statement.

 Mikleo breathing in then out.

He glanced at Edna who seemed indifferent to the situation, but he knew better. The way she clutched at her umbrella, touching her glove with her free hand, the slight downturn of her mouth, her silence all were signs of her thinking about Eizen too.

"If I was to be corrupted by Malevolence," Laphicet said, forlorn head leaning down, "There would be no choice but to end my life."

Clapping her hands together Lailah choose to intervene, "So, now that we knew you were a Dragon faking to be a boy all along, maybe you could show us where to find that Dragon Blocking Staff."

If her eyes lingered slightly on Edna as she spoke, no one commented on it. Though, Zaveid did lean closer to Lailah to whisper suspiciously, actually making her blush.

Mikleo never though he would hear a chuckle come out of a Dragon's throat one day and there he was, the sound resonating into the Dragon's mouth.

"You know I can hear you, Zaveid. Lailah can say what she wants, I'm not offended. I'm not sure what my actual appearance would be so I do pretend to be a boy because that was my actual appearance when my power grew too much for this tiny body to handle." He shook his head, the movement sending flutters into his wings.

Sorey was fascinated, nearly vibrating with the need to know and ask more, to drown himself in knowledge and stories. Mikleo was feeling the need too, overflowing because they kept being surrounded by marvels they were forbidden to explore because of time. Grasping Sorey’s sleeve, he did his best to convey in his expression the promise that they would be back here once things had settled.

"We are ready to proceed. Should we know something more about the Staff?" Mikleo urged needing to move now before his and Sorey’s curiosity took the better of them and kept them here until nightfall.

Laphicet hissed slightly, lips rising to show sharp teeth." You won't like the place where its hidden." He warned, and then sighed, "The Staff is hidden deep but as Dragoon, you'll be able to feel it."

He started to move, carefully orienting his large body between the structures that Mikleo had failed to notice before.

In the middle of the plateau stood three stone towers, made with the same stone surrounding them. They were all of different sizes with the largest standing in the middle. It was engraved with glyphs that Mikleo couldn't identify because it was neither seraph language nor ancient tongue he knew about. The glyphs seemed to glow under the sun. He knew Sorey was already memorizing them to put them in his travel log later.

"What? I thought it was hidden somewhere inside that thing. Walk, walk, walk that all us travelers seem to do."  Edna complained.

At least she had fallen out of her silence.

"And walk some more we will." Zaveid announced, Mikleo certain now that he had found some relief in Edna's words

"The Dragon blocking Staff is sealed in the Forbidden Land. Those towers are actually a device to open a portal large enough to transport you there."

"The Forbidden Land?" Rose beat Mikleo to the question.

He couldn't shut the part of him telling him that all seemed Forbidden with the seraph anyway. They really were sheltered under Gramps wings. There would be a lot to talk about after everything.

Laphicet nodded, " It’s the place where hideous memories sleep. The birthplace of malevolence, something Hellions, Seraphs and Humans alike are trying to forget about."

One of his claws racked against the smallest tower, following the glyphs as he spoke, they lit a dull grey light. While still talking he moved toward another tower.

"It used to be a Palace where Hellions thrived, the place where they were promised eternal prosperity."

The power lighting the tower hit Mikleo, feeling overly different from the mana coursing through his vein though he could tell it was something similar. Something closer to wind mana, maybe? He looked toward Zaveid, but there was nothing out of the ordinary in his attitude, like Mikleo he was observing as Laphicet started that odd contraption. It smelled faintly of ozone.

"We-You are sending us to the royal capital Kadessa?! The Hellion's capital?!"

There was no mistaking the full shiver of excitement that went through Sorey's body. Then his words hit Mikleo and he nearly choked on his saliva at the prospect. Laphicet eyes seemed hard on them before softening.

"You sure know a lot about ancient History," He commented, his Dragon lips pulled into what looked like a smile, "It was Kadessa, now it’s a mere ruin without a name. I didn't return there since I put the staff there, but…there was already so much malevolence plaguing the place. I think it might be even worse today." The mere thought had the scales on his back rising.

A glance was shared with the party. Mikleo had faith in everyone, and he knew they would support each other, they were a team.

 "We'll manage. The Dragoon Spirit will protect us. We promise we won't push ourselves." Lailah reassured.

Laphicet's shoulders eased and he breathed a little sigh, "Well, it's no use hesitating now. Go over there when you are ready." With a nod of his head he showed the tallest tower.

There was climbable stairs on the side, though they were archaic in design, more for efficiency leading into a small platform. There were more engravings under Mikleo's feet and though it was a tight fit, some fuss later with Rose's elbow digging painfully into Mikleo's ribs, they managed to all stand on top of the tower.

When they had settled, Laphicet’s whole paw fell into an engraving that lit more brightly. There was a crumbling sound echoing through Mikleo's skull before stones started floating.

The stone formed a full circle, a door of some sort, turning endlessly before them at a tranquil pace, like dandelions flowing in the winds. The top of the two other towers turned on themselves at the same pace, though not in the same direction. It was something Mikleo could never have imagined. Even the traps and secrets inner working of the Mabinogio ruins were nothing like that.

He found Sorey's hand in the group's closeness, squeezing his fingers to tell him of his impatience to discover Kadessa.

"Whoa, is that ancient technologies?" Sorey couldn't refrain from asking.

Laphicet shrugged his wings, "It's a ruin of it." His voice seemed distant, "Go now. I wish you the best of luck."

Sorey closed his eyes, hand still clutching Mikleo's as he stepped close to the stone ring. There was a light, then a feeling of lightheadedness like when Mikleo had drawn too much on his power. His stomach churned and then he found his feet on solid ground again.

The others were there too, stepping aside now that they had enough space to move. It was met with the odd sensation of something missing inside him when he registered that the earthpulse’s presence was so far away making his skin prickle from its lack. Well, it calmed him down for sure. It felt like they had been transported really far away.

He turned to see the stone circle still levitating and turning, the same sort of tower that Laphicet activated keeping it alive and he let out the air he was unconsciously holding. At least they could go back the way they came from.

The tall tree and the mountain in the horizon were no more. Here the sun was hidden by a tick cloud of red dust, the atmosphere heavy and barely breathable. Mikleo hadn't realized he was coughing before putting a hand in front of his mouth. The malevolence really was thick, almost a palpable fog around them; it would have turned any creature feral within seconds. Mikleo thanked his Dragoon's Spirit for its protection. As his head cleared from the transportation, his mind registered more of the surroundings. His eyes were stinging but he still raised his head to look at the ruins.

Taller than the trees, taller than the Kazas Castle, taller than anything Mikleo had seen were the crumbling walls of the late Hellions Capital. Mist was licking the foot of it while clouds hid the very top. It was only the outer wall but scars from the war were already all Mikleo could see, huge dents, holes, entire columns fallen, there was no way they could imagine what the capital was from those ruin. Laphicet was right when he told them they wouldn't like this.

The reluctance to see more of this carnage collided loudly inside Mikleo with his former impatience to see this. He was not disappointed in the least, but he feared what he may see. But Mikleo was an archeologist, and witnessing utter destruction was part of the job. It didn't mean he would like seeing this. This was nothing but a cemetery to the many lives lost here.

"This is no remains… there is nothing left. It looks like the whole city was smashed to the ground." Sorey breathed.

Bumping her shoulder against his, Rose dispelled the aggrieved look that had showed on Sorey's face, "Didn't you say that in that book of your Hellions had floating cities. Maybe that's what actually happened. A giant city falling from the sky would look like that to me."

"Man, even the wind here are stifled. I can barely hear them whisper. No wonder the air is so stale."

Neither Rose's nor Zaveid's statement helped but they did represent how the place was making him feel.  As it was, crushed, stifled and with a stale taste on his tongue, something that tasted like Iron. Yet, Sorey’s interest was piqued and it seemed he couldn't tear his eyes away from the decayed remains of the Hellion's past glory while he hummed under his breath probably thinking about theories and possibilities.

"Eleven hundreds of years and this place still stinks of blood." Edna pulled her tongue out, fake gaging, "Let's move, I don't want to grow old here."

Her determined step rang loudly in the morbid silence, a signal for all of them to resume their quest.

The inside of the cities were as terrible as Mikleo feared, nearly impracticable with faceless ruins surrounding them. It was hard to navigate when it was impossible to distinguish a road from a house, a bridge from a fallen wall, but they had to.

Malevolence was pungent and once inside Mikleo found out it was the actual mist surrounding them, it was so concentrated that it had a tangible form permeating everything that still barely stood.

They walked for what seemed hours into that wretched city, with only Laphicet’s hint that they would feel the Staff’s presence to guide them. Mikleo regretted having refused Grimoirh’s apple tea now.

Weary, they chose to rest after stepping into a wide open area with open sky, though the sky was still shrouded into that reddish hue, the sun but a small dot of orange whose light barely filtered through. Mikleo looked around, reluctant to see more of that destruction but needed to know where they were headed. They had marked their progression until now so returning toward the entrance wouldn't be as hard.

The place they were in was well preserved; he could distinguish stones steps with arched gates on each side. The walls were rounded, the ground bare earth much like… oh, and he realized it was exactly the same as Lohan arena. Only it was much, much larger and made to last.

 "It is an Arena!" He let out as the realization hit.

It was half caved in, the ground cracked and raised, a whole tribune fallen into the pit but there was no mistaking it.

Following his gaze, Sorey looked around, "More like a Coliseum, I think that’s what you call it when they are this large."

A dark chuckle left Rose's lip, "Hellions were really fond of Coliseum games. But not those we saw back in Lohan. Those were matches to the death. They put their slaves here and forced them to fight under the populaces eyes. I heard they liked to make humans fight against Dragons." She said never looking back at them.

"I've been around Hellions for a while and that's not a story they are proud off, not something they told everyone." Zaveid mused.

Rose didn't flinch at the accusation, "I don't remember who told me, could be Brad."

There was something accusatory in the way Zaveid looked at her, like he was adamant it was abnormal to know of this, something that would have happened even before the Dragon Campaign. It was true that Rose was usually not fond of History, but she had tried more than once to try, maybe she had read books from Deningrad's library, who knows. She was the first of them to be granted the power of the Dragoons after all, she was the one to send them into this adventure, and why would it be so strange she knew about irrelevant things like that?

"It's all in the past now, there is nothing left but ruins. The sins of the past are here to tell not to repeat them."

Once again Mikleo swore to himself that he would write a better Celestial Record, because the death that happened here shouldn’t be forgotten. Because even though Hellions weren't proud of their history, they needed not to forget about it so the mistakes won't be repeated. Humans and seraphim too needed to take lesson from the past.

"May those weary bones rest in peace."

For all answers Rose held her hand toward the sky, palm open as she repeated her mantra.

With the sun barely visible in the sky and the light barely changing, it was hard to tell how much time they spent walking.

Mikleo noticed they had run out of conversation only because, Rose’s sudden question nearly startled him.

"Damn, why did Laphicet hide this staff so far away? This place is in shambles, I'm sure we only crossed the main street!" She complained, throwing her hands up.

As she stood over a pile of rubble, Edna seemed to look down on her, "Are you joining the dumb club? Duh, remind me why a Dragon wouldn't want a Staff that could block him as far away from him as possible?"

She sounded really annoyed but no one could blame her, and Rose had a point, it didn't look like they had made it very far.

Rose mumbled something under her breath, and then nudged a stone with her foot "This place is making me nasty." She followed Edna on top of her rubble, "Do you have some vantage point up here?”

Her weight disturbed some stones and dust that forced Mikleo to move away. Rose settled next to Edna, lips pulling into a line as she moved around.

"Ah! There is some structure standing there. It's not that far and I think I can feel the Staff somewhere near there. Come on it would be faster if you all climb the pile instead of going around it."

The relief in her voice went through Mikleo who breathed out, finally seeing the nearing end of this. The first thing he would do back in Deningrad would be to take a bath to get rid of all that orange dust and smell of iron that coated him. Yet, Mikleo was reluctant to climb that pile, it seemed rather unstable and the few boulders Rose disturbed only comforted him into that.

Before he could find another solution though, Zaveid was already helping Lailah up, her heel making the climbing process rather slow. Mikleo hissed as more rubble fell down.

"Careful. We better climb one after another." Lailah said as she looked back after Mikleo.

Mikleo nodded his head, reaching for Sorey’s mantle as he watched Edna and Rose start going down on the other side.

"I have a bad feeling." He told Sorey.

"This place is a bad feeling." Sorey answered, nudging him with his elbow.

The seriousness etched on Mikleo's face made Sorey’s playful smirk turn into something softer. He pushed Mikleo’s bangs away from his forehead revealing the circlet underneath, Mikleo tried to swat his hand away but it was half assed, his will to remove Sorey not really there when his touch was this comforting. He jutted his lips out in a pout instead.

"It'll be all right, we are almost there. I can feel the Staff too, I can tell its close."

The softness of Sorey’s voice penetrated through Mikleo's troubled mind making him hope he was only overthinking, as he often does.

"Go first; I'll catch you if you fall down."

If Mikleo cheeks were red, Sorey hadn't time to see from how he was suddenly turned and pushed toward the pile. A gentle laughter left him as he grasped the first stone to help him climb on his hands, feeling Mikleo's insistent hand push his back.

Contrary to Mikleo’s worry, they were all safely posted on the other side when the pile of rubble finally gave out, falling further down the other side in a cloud of dust and a deafening noise of many ceramic breaking.

It was Rose and Edna’s turn to hiss. Because it could have well happened when they all were on top, the stones taking them like an avalanche. Fortunately for them it didn't happen and as Zaveid's wind dispersed the cloud of dust, Mikleo eyes fell on the structure Rose had mentioned.

It looked much like a chapel of some sort, something he had seen many time in humans cities, where they venerated the Great Lords or Soa. It looked too alike to be a coincidence. Maybe modern architecture had some roots in the old Hellions Empire. While he imagined the implication, Mikleo startled when Zaveid burst out.

"What the heck!"

He quickly turned back toward the rubble to see what had Zaveid exclaiming and the others in different arrays of gasps and incredulous mumbling.

There had been something under the rubble. Something ugly and distorted, yet something Mikleo had seen many times before. And this time was one too much if you asked him.

Though its head was flatter, his color more rusty than silver, Mikleo would never mistake a Virage for any other creature. He immediately reached for Sorey.

"Do you hear something?" He breathed out fearing the answer.

If Mikleo’s question displeased Sorey he didn't say anything but his expression was a mix of anger and sadness as he gave his answer, shaking his head.

"No, this one is dead."

"Weren't they all supposed to be?" Edna commented, "A shame, I was so ready to try my Dagoon's power."

Mikleo saw her reach for her Dragoon's spirit hidden somewhere in the flowers adorning her back. He didn't know those ornament could serve as pockets. His own spirit rested quietly against his forehead, silent if not for its steady presence. It didn't even react to Mikleo's distress and he concluded that Sorey wasn't lying that his spirit could feel that the Virage was truly dead this time.

"See that huge gash over its head. This one is a remnant of the battle that took place here." Rose pointed out, "That’s the one that killed Belzac if I'm not wrong." She whispered the last part but Mikleo wasn't the only one to catch that.

"Who?"

Rose straightened her shoulders as if surprised, her expression turning sheepish, "Ah I mean, all we have seen until now is dust, this one must have been preserved by the rubble or something when the city was ransacked."

Zaveid lifted a brow but let her go, Mikleo was too afflicted by the Virage’s presence to take much of her weirdness. Instead he looked back at Sorey whose gaze seemed unable to lift from his feet.

"I-We never really got the time to ask Gramps if he know why I can hear Virage's voices."

Mikleo’s heart was struck by the slight tremor he perceived in Sorey's voice.

"What am I?" Sorey breathed out.

"Our friend, dummy." Edna cut hitting his leg with her umbrella, "I have seen enough of that things ugly face. You can ask your Gramps after we get that Staff. Really do I have to make you move every time? I feel like a Holiday camp instructor."

And her complaint could still be heard as she went ahead of them, opening the way to the pseudo church.

"She's right, you know." Lailah insisted, "It's no use to plague yourself with that. I'm sure the answer is pretty simple. Maybe you are just attuned to their frequency or something." She shrugged certain of her answer.

Sorey looked at Mikleo searching something he must have found if the way his preoccupied expression morphed into something more Sorey like with a hint of a smile was anything to go by.

Mikleo found his own solace in that expression, wanting to believe Lailah with his whole being but his heart, his very own soul was telling him otherwise. There was a primal fear somewhere deep inside him stirring at the thought he didn't know Sorey as well as he thought. It was making bile rise in his throat, the acid stench of it burning through his nose. Mikleo swallowed then faked a smile the best he could, because Sorey didn't need to be made aware of Mikleo's doubt on top of everything. Their fingers intertwined.

"I'm sure we'll figure something out. Now the Staff is the more pressing matter."

Sorey nodded.

If Rose lingered a bit behind, Mikleo was too preoccupied to see it.

The church like building’s stones were indeed better preserved than everything else inside that wretched city. The rusty smell here was less present and Mikleo could tell that some lingering magic was still acting and preserving the things from the destructive ravages of time.

Sorey seemed to have forgotten about the Virage ordeal, green eyes glowing the same hue as the bas-relief that covered the wall. Glowing a gentle green, like the towers Laphicet used to activate the transporter, the bas-relief were a relief from the reddish fog that had surrounded them until now. Mikleo really loved that color.

Other than those and the engraved cobblestone under their feet, the single room of the small structure was bare, no other rooms, no other entrance.

"What now, we can't fly and the Staff is obviously upstairs." Rose complained again, fed up with Kadessa’s ruins.

They all were weary and tired, but there a solution was always at hand, even if the contrary was more obvious.

"We used to see rooms like that often in Mabinogio." Sorey said, making Mikleo smile fondly at the memories. "There is always a hidden room somewhere. We just have to find its mechanism."

Sharing a knowing glance with Mikleo, he touched the bas-relief at the far right side. This one looked like some kind of Ivy. Instantly, the green light turned a dull blue.

"You'd better not trigger some trap instead." Edna warned.

This made Mikleo shudder as the bloodlust she let filtrate was true and tangible, she would make them suffer at the first warning of a trap activating. Well, It did happen once or twice in their explorations before, and they were still alive.

"At first Soa planted a tree. Then the Great Three bore one hundred and eight Fruits." Sorey said as he moved toward another bas-relief.

Mikleo followed him, touching the far left bas-relief that looked like a giant primitive human shaped silhouette. "The Gigantos where born the ninety-seventh fruit."

It turned blue.

"Looks like it worked. Viva la Nerd Powers." Rose encouraged.

The next bas-relief was closest to Mikleo so he moved toward it, the shape was human like but much smaller, "The Minitos came from the ninety-ninth."

Sorey was then right next to Mikleo touching the bas-relief that was a pear shape with four legs and eight leaves on its side that looked like wings. "One hundred on fifth gave birth to the Dragons."

Then came the bas-relief that was shaped taller than Minitos but smaller than Gigantos. And the last one was in the middle of the other, facing the room’s entrance. The bas-relief shape was much like the human's one, but with wings like the Dragons and a crown or a halo.

That was the hundred and seventh species, the last of the lives born from the tree, the Hellions

When Sorey and Mikleo both touched it and it lit blue, the loud noise of a stone wall moving out of its hinge drowned words and whispers.

"Tada!" Sorey offered presenting the opened stairwell with both hands.

"You both can be useful sometimes."

This was a lot coming from Edna. Sorey was busy fetching his notebook to note the enigma that triggered the opening to bask in the moment he just shared with Mikleo. There was no way he couldn't look at him with all the fondness he could muster while the others were already climbing the spiral staircase.

When things were like that Mikleo was under the impression that the world could end and it wouldn't matter, he would be happy beside Sorey.

But the moment had to end eventually, because as much as he wished for it they weren't alone in the world and Deningrad needed that Dragon Block Staff.

"Sorey?" he called.

"Hum?" Sorey was busy chewing on his pencil, "I only need a few seconds."

"I'm just making sure you know I love you." Mikleo gaze couldn't settle on Sorey.

"And done! Let go find the Staff. Were you saying something, Mikleo?"

Grabbing Sorey by the scruff of his neck, Mikleo brought him closer to kiss his cheek. He laughed awkwardly, knowing he had missed something but unable to tell what. Mikleo took pity on him and kissed him again on the same spot.

"What did I do to deserve that?"

"You are an idiot."

"We got the Staff!" They heard Rose call from on top of the stair.

"Well, now because of you we missed that." Mikleo crossed his arms over his chest.

He was annoyed truly, and pushed Sorey toward the stairs, "Wait, we want to see that."  He called back.

And then it shattered the moment Sorey gasped for breath, grabbing Mikleo’s arm so hard it would undoubtedly bruise as he was suddenly cut from all air in his lungs. Panic filled Mikleo's next movements as he held Sorey up, watching horror and agony flash in his eyes. With his free hand, Sorey tried to grab at his throat, wanting, needing to claw at whatever kept the air from entering it.

It all happened so fast, the warmth of a healing spell already forming into Mikleo core while he was still trying to take a grasp at the situation. Something bright, flashed inside Sorey eyes, a color than couldn’t even be registered by his own vision. The green was back, as intelligent and aware as ever and Sorey coughed, his clutching of Mikleo arm lessening to something more comforting.

"Mikleo." Sorey said, taking mouthful of much needed air before Mikleo could gather his wits and ask what happened.

 "We need to go back to Deningrad. Now!"

Chapter Text

The thought of having visited a ruin as ancient and legendary as Kadessa should have filled Sorey with a joy that would have lasted a while, making his shine as bright as Deningrad's Crystal. But the way his face fell, a deep frown setting there, eyes dark as he prompted everyone to rush out of the remnant of the ruined Hellion's Capital city told everyone how dire the situation was. 

The few words exchanged here were quickly forgotten, left behind by the urgency to follow on Sorey's trail. They were back to the gates in no time, winded and shaking. They had felt it too, somehow but it was the knowledge of the weird connection Sorey had with the Divine Dragon that made them certain of what truly transpired in Deningrad.

And if there was any doubt something really bad had happened during their search of the Dragon Blocking Staff, Laphicet's terrible expression as they stepped away from the ancient transporting devise, back into the hidden Hellion's village, was every representation of their dread.

The energy and adrenaline that moved Sorey until then as he lead them seemed to be sucked out of his body and he could tell from every expression souring around him that he wasn't alone being exhausted physically and mentally, and Laphicet's words were the last thing he needed to hear.

"The Divine Dragon woke up."

Sorey let out a weary breath, feeling faint. Pain etched on his face, he looked at Mikleo seeking solace in his eyes. Instead he found a fear mirroring his own there and fighting the bile rising in his throat he turned back toward Laphicet. 

There were whispers among the others, considering what to do next, the fastest way to act because no one could acknowledge they were too late. 

"We need to go back to Deningrad as soon as possible." Sorey said, stating the obvious

Hope was not something Sorey was ready to let go. He would never renounce, and even if the Dragon attack had already befallen upon the city he wanted to be there. He wanted to offer anything he could do to help. Sorey wanted, needed to be there as soon as possible. He looked at Laphicet, hopeful, pleading eyes asking if the Dragon seraph knew a way.

The Dragon’s verdant eyes blinked slowly, before he hummed seemingly losing himself in thoughtfulness, considering Sorey's words and sharing his hope. Then Laphicet nodded his head.

"I can try to warp you there."

The Dragon's voice sounded loud in the heavy silence.

"Phi! That arte was never finalized! And you never tried to warp so many people at the same time!" Zaveid’s protest left his chest like a thunder clap.

Another loaded silence followed Zaveid’s statement. The rising wind felt cold against Sorey's cheeks and he flinched as it seeped inside his cloth, his already cold body shivering . He felt cold, so cold, like his very insides were freezing the more he waited, that more of his energy was being sapped out of his body by this situation, like nothing not even Mikleo's presence could warm him anymore.

Lailah touched her lips, and then looked at her feet, hesitating, "Maybe there is another way." She said, joining Zaveid before Laphicet.

Large wings slumping against the ground, Laphicet shook his head, "I'll be fine. And it’s the fasted way for you to get there," Then he looked up toward the mountain in the North," They'll need you."

"If we leave on foot we won't be there until nightfall, if the Divine Dragon really woke up and attacked Deningrad there won't be much of a city to reach at that time!" Rose interjected, grasping Lailah’s upper arm, trying to stop her from protesting. With her free hand she reached for Zaveid, "Please. We need everything Laphicet can offer."

The three exchanged a glance, grave and serious.

"It'll require all of his mana, which would leave this village without protection for who knows how long." Zaveid explained.

"I know what I'm offering. But I know I can rely on everyone's strength." Laphicet smiled, white fangs showing under larges lips, Zaveid seemed unmoved though, still giving a stern look to the Dragon. "Trust me. Trust the others."

Zaveid eyes narrowed as Lailah gave up, retreating away from him and taking her support with it. He looked one last time at everyone seeing how they were set on relying on Laphicet's power then sighed, running a hand through his hair. The wind settled to a gentle breeze.

"That trust thing again. Alright then if you're really sure about it." He threw his hands up in defeat.

Nodding, Laphicet instructed them to get close to each other, so he could warp them all in one go. It seemed to pain him though, the way his wings dragged and his shoulders slumped. But soon enough his eyes lit up brightly and they were all engulfed in silver flame, almost the same shade of Sorey's purification's flame. The dragon groaned, struggling from the strain warping so many souls at once.

"Thank you so much." Sorey told him.

The last thing he saw before his vision whitened was the Dragon smile. There was no one left on the rocky ledge to see the Dragon’s legs give way under him, his whole body crumbling like a mountain. They couldn't see that, exhausted, his mana sucked out, he reverted back to his human form.

Laphicet’s mana was enough to warp them all right in the middle of Deningrad’s main plaza. It took only seconds to send them there yet, Sorey couldn't rejoice at the exploit. Not when his eyes opened to a sight of utter devastation. If the Divine Dragon’s first attack had been destructive, this one had finished the job. This attack was a disaster; it was like a powerful earthquake had leveled the entire city. 

It was so silent.

The castle once rising proud and magnificent towering over the city was gutted, half of it missing and Sorey grabbed at Mikleo’s sleeve at what it implied, but Mikleo was too busy gaping at the church that should have been on top of the stairs behind them, the building collapsed under a huge chunk of crystal.

Haggard people were walking by; one couple hugging each other in front of what was left of their home, plumes of smoke rising from the piles of wood.

He couldn't describe the outer destruction and chaos around him just like he couldn't feel, couldn't truly realize what had been done to this city.

Sorey's ears began to catch sounds around them, the silence having been the result of shock. They were calls of names, cries for help. But then before he could truly feel overwhelmed by the fact they shouldn't have let this happen, he saw how many people rose to help, how some had supplies and were already starting to repair on the less damaged buildings. City Guards along Castle Guards were bustling around, helping everyone they could. There was someone beside them helping a child reunite with his mother and she burst into tears when he ran to her. There were tears and sorrow but there was something else that was slowly rising as the city woke up from the attack and Sorey found the light of hope inside him again, his hands warmed. He took a deep breath.

"We were too late." Lailah gasped.

"Is-is this truly Deningrad?" Mikleo asked, incredulous.

Rose turned toward him, "Don't be such a laggard! Gramps and Alisha are in the castle!" 

She was already running ahead, making Sorey’s heart miss a beat with each one of her words. He shouldn't linger here, taking in the destruction around them and taking his sweet time to realize that yes, the Divine Dragon's attack left Deningrad in ruins, yet even as Mikleo tried to pull on his arm to make him move, his legs refused to budge.

Then Sorey forcefully pried himself away from Mikleo, not once aware of the violence of his act as he turned toward the everlasting moon. He closed his arms around himself, trying to get some warmth as he stared at the gleaming giant rock floating in the sky. 

Was the moon always this bright? 

Sorey swallowed still feeling the phantom sensation of the thing that attacked him back inside Kadessa, and looking at the moon, the feeling growing more present by the second Sorey found the certitude that it was an attack. His hand lingered around his throat where he had felt the thing try to open it, like a hot brand seared into his skin. Something had tried to enter inside, that’s all Sorey could think about to put words on what happened. Something had tried to claw inside him through his throat, choking him and strangling him as his body fought against the intrusion.

At that time, Sorey fought it, and he couldn't even be sure that he won. But now looking at the moon, it was like he just knew.

"It's gone back." he breathed.

"What? Sorey, what are you doing? Come on, we need to find Gramps." Mikleo tried to make him move again, his voice trembling as he failed to hide his worry.

Looking away from the moon to turn back to Mikleo felt like drinking a hot chocolate on a winter night, like going home and falling under a favorite blanket after a rough day. Sorey felt the smile that stretched his lips, saw it reflect in Mikleo's wide eyes.

"The thing that felt wrong inside the castle, it's gone." 

And he was so happy about his finding that Mikleo had trouble responding to him. He was frowning hard at Sorey, mouth opening then closing.

"Sorey! Mikleo!"

They turned toward the voice calling them before Mikleo had time to say anything. Sorey was starting to have feelings back into his members and would have waved as Sirel and Ian approached them if he hadn't remembered how inappropriate it was. It was the Sacred Sisters states that made him remember, sending a pang to his guts because they were bearing the city’s destruction on them.

As always, Ian was helping Sirel around but they both looked quite shaken. Their robes were ripped at some places, Ian had a gash on her jaw that looked to have stopped bleeding only recently and Sirel had mud and crystal dust in her hair.

"Ian, Sirel!" Lailah exclaimed going to Sirel’s side to support her as Ian looked barely able to stand herself. "Thank the lord, you are all right." She breathed out in relief.

"Here let me heal that," Mikleo went to Ian, hand glowing.

"Keep that for those we need it the most." She swatted his hand away, her energy not totally depleted after all, "We are fine," 

"It was so scary though." Sirel said, squeezing Ian’s arm.

Looking around him one more time, Sorey winced, "It must have been. But the Dragon is gone for now and we won't let him come back. We have the Dragon Blocking staff" he said, balling his fists at his side.

Sirel smiled gently, her unseeing eyes seemed to see past him but this time it wasn't making him uncomfortable, it was helping him warm up.

"Meebo and I can start helping with the wounded. How shall we begin?" Edna started.

"Don't enroll me just yet! I still have to know where Gramps is." Mikleo protested though it wasn't with much conviction. It was obvious in the shifting of his feet that he itched to do something.

"I can to help too. I want to." Zaveid interjected pointing at himself but Edna didn't even look back at him.

"Actually, it's thanks to Zenrus and Princess Alisha that there are so few casualties." Sirel said.

It was all it took to have Sorey and Mikleo's full attention as they both crowded around the blind woman wanting to hear her. There was something truly off. And Sorey wasn't entirely referring to the destruction around them.

"How is he? And Alisha, did something happen to them." he had to ask.

Sirel backed away ever so slightly, surprised by their enthusiasm to say the least and Ian nearly growled at them.

"Huh well, The Princess elaborated an evacuation plan for the population and trained them to recognize the Dragon's approach so they knew how to take shelter when it attacked…and Zenrus, well he used his blessing to protect the city from the worst of it," 

She started sniffing lightly, tears gathering in her eyes and trembling lips that made Sorey fear for the worse. He was feeling so proud of Gramps and Alisha for everything Sirel recalled, but the way she just closed up at the end was a clear sign that she wasn't telling everything. Mikleo's lips were pulled taunt, his hand rising to hold his upper arm, as if bracing himself for a bad news. Just like Sorey, he could feel the tension in the air.

"As you can see, it still wasn't enough there isn't much left of the Palace." Ian continued for her, head rising to look at the Palace ruins

As his eyes lifted to look at the destroyed tower Sorey felt ashamed with himself that he was almost happy the castle was destroyed as it meant the weird thing inside was gone. But he couldn't tell that to anyone, not even Mikleo would understand something he could barely put into words.

"Zenrus and Alisha protected and saved our Queen and we'll never repay them for that." Ian smiled.

Sorey nodded, he had gathered that already. They wouldn't be here talking to them if something had happened to Queen Selene . 

MmmThrough the tears starting to fall, Sirel smiled too, but then she bit her lips and looked vaguely toward the still standing Inn near the fortunately near intact Library, "The Divine Dragon’s attack was the worst on the Crystal Palace. It was a black bottomless mass of hate. I fear it will come back."

Lailah started soothing her, rubbing her arm, "We'll deal with it. We'll depart as soon as possible. We'll stop it with Zenrus and the Dragon Blocking staff with us."

"The bastard who makes beautiful women cry should be punished accordingly." Rarely Zaveid had such bitterness in his voice. 

It seemed to appease Sirel though it didn't work with Sorey because he too could still feel that lingering hatred coming from the Dragon. He didn't dare go looking for it inside himself because it was so much it was stifling, and it was certain that the Dragon wouldn't be satisfied until there was only dust instead of Deningrad. It was starting to get confusing whose feelings were his own and whose were the Dragon's. Sorey breathed in and then out concentrating on the moment to suppress that strange and impossible connection.

As if he knew from the way Sorey had starting to bite his own cheek, Mikleo's fingers massaged his wrist, helping him concentrate on something else. He breathed a low thank you which was answered by a squeeze. Sorey guessed Seraphs were more used to dealing with leading invasive thoughts away.

"Where are Gramps and Alisha? Are they busy helping?" Mikleo asked hopeful.

Ian shook her head, her free hand clutching her robe, "A temporary hospital was put inside the inn, the Queen Selene and Zenrus brought the Princess there."

As Sorey’s mouth dried, apprehension taking over, Edna stepped up, tapping her closed umbrella against the cobblestone.

"Quit beating around the bush. We are all adults and can take bad news without soiling our diaper. What happened to Alisha?"

Even for Edna, this was crass, showing just how annoyed she was at Ian's sugar coating the facts. However her remark made Sorey aware that indeed Ian had been dancing around the subject making him fear just how bad it was. He looked over Ian's shoulder just to see if Rose had realized they hadn't followed and came back to them. If it was this bad, he would want to be there for her too.

But there was no sign of a red head when Ian's face blanched, "A piece of the Castle roof fell on Alisha. It was meant to fall on Queen Selene but she pushed her away and it pierced through her leg instead."

It was Lailah’s loud gasp that voiced Sorey's disbelief.

"Is-Is it bad?" he had to ask even though he was already starting to feel the cold creep back through his spine.

Ian sighed as Sirel’s sobbing couldn't be contained anymore, "We better get you there."

It seemed a miracle that Deningrad's inn, being as close as it was to the Crystal Palace was mostly spared by the Dragon attack. Though it seemed there had been an explosion outside, with the busted windows and the half missing roof. The inside wasn't faring better though. There was glass everywhere being swept away by volunteers as others hammered planks to the destroyed windows, slowly depriving the place of natural light to protect them from the cold outside.

Having been turned into a makeshift hospital though a disaster, it was a real beehive, nurses and medics carrying supplies to the rooms as more wounded were bought in by the Guards. Sorey watched them for a while as Ian showed them the far end of the room's corridor. He saw courage there. He saw that no one was giving up and it brightened his mood.

 After that Sirel and Ian departed from them being needed to care for the people's needs and willing to start the city reconstruction as soon as possible. Sorey felt as though there was something else there, like they couldn't bear what was at the end of this corridor.

There was a familiar red head waiting for them there, head lowered in front of a door, hand held up as if she wanted to knock yet unable to move, Sorey knew that showing her the goodness of the people around him wouldn't be enough for Rose.

She spoke, her voice steady without turning to look at them. "They are in there. I was told they brought Alisha there."

Lifting his hand to offer his support, Sorey barely had the time for it to land on Rose's shoulder before the door opened, its hinge creaking ominously in the dim lit corridor.

Gramps leathered, drawn face greeted them. A tired smile graced his features as he spotted his sons, "You're back."

Without waiting any further he moved out of the way inviting everyone back. The room was the most luxurious the inn could provide it seemed, spacious with a carpeted floor that seemed coated by a fine layer of dust and a huge bed. It was well lit with many candle and oil lamps though just as the rest of the inn windows the ones inside the room were barred by planks. Though the room had space, it seemed stifling and crowded with the seven of them plus the three.

For a moment, Sorey’s attention was caught by Queen Selene , sitting beside the bed on a hard-looking wooden chair. She seemed unharmed if not a bit disheveled and when her gentle green eyes found Sorey's he couldn't help but smile back at her. Until he saw her hand resting atop the bed coverlet and he caught the figure resting on it.

The steady rise and fall of Alisha's chest as she slept allowed Sorey to breathe a sigh of relief. It was as if she was being swallowed by the large bed, resting in the middle of it. Alisha was not a small or a frail girl but right now, her face pale, her blond unwashed hair turned brown from blood and her whole leg bandaged she seemed so fragile.

With a curt bow to the Queen, Rose approached from the bed, her face unreadable. Sorey could see the way her eyes focused on the reddened bandage covering Alisha's leg.

"I owe my life to her." Queen Selene said in a low voice. "She's every bit the courageous and strong woman I thought she was."

Though the Queen’s compliment was genuine and filled with her gratitude, Sorey didn't miss the way Rose’s jaw tightened and he was certain no one in this room missed it. The tension emanating from her was almost palpable, until it fell again just like that and Rose's shoulders lowered.

"That she is."

"Is there something we could do?" 

It took a moment for Sorey to divert his eyes away from Alisha to see that Lailah had addressed Gramps, hopping she could somehow do something, anything. Gramps thwarted her hope when he shook his head, voice barely above a whisper as if he feared Rose would hear him. She held the hem of her dress, dreading the words.

"We already had a healer Seraph look over her wound, she'll recover but lost a lot of blood when we removed the crystal from her thigh and it seems the bone was cracked …" He sighed, having witness how Alisha was very important for the group," it might take a while for her to recover."

"Rose, everyone… you're back."

Even when they literally went through hell and back together fighting horrendous foes after another, never had Alisha's voice had sounded so weak, so tiny.

"Yes. We weren't gone for long and we got the Dragon Blocking staff as we promised."

Rose's voice sounded weird too. She sounded like she was out of breath and unable to manage her volume. She was shifting from foot to foot, her hand grasping the coverlet close to Alisha's hand. Alisha looked back at Rose as if drawn by the sound of her voice and though she was beaming Sorey winced at the pain she couldn't hide in her expression.

"Oh, right. I was about to go ask for a pitcher of water."

Gramps said, already moving back toward the door. It was true Alisha's voice sounded raspy, but that didn't explain the urgency. To further his statement, Gramps cleared his throat.

"I think I'll need some more arms to help me bring food as well." 

Sorey's back was already being pushed toward the door, he stared dragging his feet because he too wanted to talk to Alisha some more. But then Mikleo added to Gramps leading him away, Zaveid following closely behind, a half smile forming as he rolled his eyes.

Chuckling, the Queen rose from her chair, mirth in her eyes as she shared a knowing glance with Gramps, "Allow me to go with you all."

It was only when the door closed that his brain resumed its functioning and he realized what they had done. He couldn't help but to chuckle as well. As much as he wanted to make sure Alisha would be fine, it was indeed the sensitive thing to do to let the two women have some alone time.

The creaking door made the hair on Rose's nape rise, the sound unpleasant making her suddenly realize that she'd been left alone inside that huge room. Alone with a Princess blinking at her waiting for something. Sentiments weren't something Rose was good at. Acts were her strong point but now even that seemed to not work properly.

With a sigh, she sat next to Alisha's hip on the bed, discarded her embarrassment and took Alisha's hand in hers like she wanted to do. Alisha’s squeeze was feeble but it was there making Rose nearly lose her composure.

"I can't believe you got yourself speared nearly to death."

She lifted Alisha's hand bringing the back of it against her cheek.

"Did I?" 

"You did, to protect Queen Selene . And right after I gathered my wit and confessed to you too. If I had known you would go to such lengths just to avoid me I would have sucked my feelings back in and crushed them under my heel until they stopped hurting… if that was even possible." She chuckled though her voice sounded watery.

Alisha chuckled in answer before hissing in pain as it jostled her leg. "This is a very bad joke."

Rose was feeling a crushing weight over her body as she watched Alisha try to move and sit against the cushion through her pain, she couldn't even will herself to move and help her, hands hovering. Alisha managed to settle on her own, half sitting on the bed, she took deep breaths waiting for the induced pain to lessen. 

It took some time before either of them could talk again.

"Does this look bad?" Alisha asked.

Fiddling with the bead in her hair, Rose glanced at the bloodied bandage, shuddering at the sight, "I think the doctor said the bone is cracked." 

"No wonder it hurt like a bitch."

Mouth opening slightly in awe, Rose was still processing that she actually heard the Princess swear and that it was making her ears feel hot. It was impossible to know whether it was her or Alisha who renewed the contact of their hands but the next thing she knew her hand was squeezed tightly as Alisha chuckled behind her fist, her pain lessened by her new position.

"This isn't amusing, this situation is not funny!" Rose chastised, though she was more vexed that Alisha was obviously amused by her.

Her hand was squeezed tightly again and Alisha sighed. "I'm sorry I won't be able to come with you. But I would never be sorry to have saved the Queen’s life, even if I would have lost mine doing so."

It felt natural for Rose, though she was starting to feel nauseous, to hold Alisha's hand against her lips and kiss it, "And that is was make you you, my self-sacrificing Princess Knight, more Knight than Princess actually."

It was only this morning that they had said goodbye, that Rose was overcame with a feeling of wrongness from it and it only now dawned on her that feeling was there because her eyes were starting to open to the truth, that her time with Alisha was coming to an end.

She would need to leave soon to go after the Divine Dragon, and then Alisha would need time to recover so Rose would go after Lunarre without her, Rose would need to go back to the sparrow feathers soon and she would have to leave Alisha here.

The Princess would forget about her as she would forge a new life in Mille Seseau. 

Her breathing had become difficult, her lungs not following with her increased need for air. Rose was feeling hot, her eyes burning from the strain of tears held. But she was stronger than that. Alisha was still alive. There was no reason to shed tears.

The warm of Alisha’s hand was true against her lips, their kiss was one the Princess returned and gave willingly again. Rose had to remind herself that if her own feelings were true, time forced apart won't be the end for their budding relationship. 

Rose ignored the burn of the choker around her neck. 

"Alisha… I think it might be a little blunt and unwanted right now but… I'm in love with you."

It was Alisha's eyes that widened this time, her cheeks coloring the cutest pink before the happiest smile Rose had ever seen on her was gifted to her.

Alisha mumbled a little, free hand clutching the coverlet as she tried to respond, "I…I certainly didn't expect to hear that from you so soon." She turned her head away, reddening even more as she touched her lips, "To be honest, I had been completely swept by you. Your caring nature and your strong sense of justice; I have been inspired by the way you carry yourself and how you always make sure things that need to be done are done. I hope changed for the better knowing you. Your blunt honesty, your empathy, you charmed me and keep doing so, before I was aware of it you had become someone I thrive to impress, someone I look up to…Rose I have been in love with you for a while now."

That was… that was a confession Rose would never be able to rival with. She was literally soaring higher with each word leaving Alisha's trembling lips so Rose did the only sensitive thing she could do. She waited for Alisha to finish, to word love making Rose’s brain give a stutter and she stopped thinking.

When Rose regained her sense, her lips were tenderly pressed against Alisha's, her hand caressing the shorter hair on her nape. It was just a careful press of lips against lips, just a slight movement of her thumb caressing Alisha's porcelain cheek, but it was everything they both needed.

Reluctantly, Rose moved away because there were words that needed to be said, she rested her forehead against Alisha's. It was warm, it was real.

"You'll wait for me, right? Then we could travel the world if that is what you want, or we could go back to Serdio but… we'll stay together, right?"

It sounded like Rose needed the reassurance and she started to fear that she would pressure Alisha that she would make her feel trapped. The hand in her hair, caressing gently was comforting.

"I…" Alisha let out a weary sight then, "You'll need to promise you won't act rashly, that you won't put yourself in needless danger."

"Says the woman that let a piece of roof fall on her." 

Alisha slapped her arm, "I'm being serious. It's already hard being forced to stay here while you all go fight. I…I have a very bad feeling about this."

"The Divine Dragon attack must have been really awful. Deningrad is in shamble. Really, it’s a wonder why there aren't more casualties.

Alisha shook her head, "It was…we really were blessed but it's not about that." she bit her lips, her fingers clutching into the fabric of Rose's sleeve, "Lunarre… I mean he has yet to make his move. Mille Seseau’s Divine Moon object is being kept here but now with Deningrad in such a state…"

Rose's hand balled into a fist, "I know, the timing is too perfect. But we have to stop the Divine Dragon. We can't stay and wait for him."

Another light peck landed on Alisha's lips, Rose couldn't help herself, before she detached herself from the other woman.

"We'll be back soon and we'll be victorious. I'll make you proud again."

The chocker around her neck felt too hot against her skin but Rose choose to ignore it again even if it threatened to strangle her. 

The other Rose had chosen her fate, she had chosen to offer her life and those of her successors to their cause, but Rose was already starting to see another future form. One she would build for herself. 

Chapter Text

Further North they went, leaving a broken Deningrad behind but with the promise to avenge her. Still, Mikleo had the impression the whole thing was off. Thinking about how they were just on their way to end the life of an eleven millennia old creature tasted like ashes in his mouth.

It was a gruesome circle of hatred started during the Dragon Campaign, its anger fueled by the Hellions who sealed it, and then revived the Humans who then replaced Hellions and used Dragons as weapons in the war and though they sought to put an end to this circle, Mikleo had the feeling they were only adding to it. But the Divine Dragon’s anger and hatred were too deep to be quelled, just like sometimes malevolence had taken its victim too far to be purified.

They have no other choice.

To think his first encounter with the Dragon Feyrbrand happened like maybe ten or eleven months ago, it was like ages away. Mikleo remembered its nest, polluted and corrupted. How the Dragon was forced by humans using it to live in a place so far removed from its natural habitat that it had to make its own. He remembered the light leaving its beady eyes as he dealt the killing blow and how he had felt relieved to have freed the creature in a way.

Will Mikleo feel the same way when the Divine Dragon would fall?

Regardless he was going to find out soon enough.

They went through an old road nested between Mille Seseau Mountains, the barren pike of the Mountain of Mortal Dragon whose name originated from the Divine Dragon being sealed there was getting closer as they traveled. The road leading to the Mountain of the Mortal Dragon had large tundra between chains of mountain, the vegetation limited to lichen, grass, moss and very small trees. Hard to imagine it would be like that a few hours walk out of a Forest made of the tallest trees Mikleo ever saw.

Where Mikleo expected for the temperatures to drop some more and the snow around them to get ticker, there was in fact a milder temperature. And there was the fact the ground was pretty dry on this side of the mountain, which told Mikleo that it mustn't rain that often either.

Maybe it was the mountain that was keeping the rain cloud out of the valley? It was like that sometimes in Elysia because it was so high up. Well, without the occasional heavy storm caused by Gramps grounding Sorey.

"You remember Volcano Villude?" Lailah said when he pointed the fact out.

Mikleo nodded. How could he forget the lakes of flowing lava, the literal waterfall of fire being spit from the earth? It made him nostalgic and now that he thought about it, the mana around here felt similar. All fire and earth, and barely any wind or water.

Clapping her hands, delighted that she had Sorey's and Mikleo's attention Lailah continued to explain, "Well, the Mountain of Mortal Dragon is another type of volcano! Villude is a rather young volcano in comparison. When the flow of lava is constant we call those an effusive volcano. That is to say, this mountain is a dormant explosive Volcano where gas and viscous lava flow underground warming the earth."

Rose perked up at that, turning sharply to look at Lailah with wide eyes, "What? Are you saying we are walking on a ticking bomb?"

Lailah’s finger went to her lip as she hummed in thought, "Hum, you can put it like that, though it's more likely this Volcano won't erupt in another thousands of years." She then joined her hands, "Think about it, a dormant volcano is like a grandpa volcano to an active volcano. What did you think grandpa volcano said to his grandson?"

Mikleo rolled his eyes while Rose let out a grown.

It didn't stop Lailah though, "I lava you!" she exclaimed with enthusiasm.

There was a collective chuckle rising from their ranks, Lailah seemed thrilled.

"I'm glad you youngster still know how to have some fun." Said Gramps, clearing his throat to hide he too had laughed at Lailah's pun.

Shaking his head Mikleo knew as Gramps engaged in a conversation with Lailah there was no stopping her anymore.

Though Rose was still a bit pale, her gaze passing warily from the ground to the mountain top, until Edna gave her a shove, "I would have warned you if the area was close to explosion, Earth Seraph here remember?"

Thanking Edna came in the form of Rose giving her back her shove.

It was amazing now that Mikleo thought about it, water, fire, wind and earth seraph traveling together sharing knowledge and discovering the world together. Warmth spread quickly inside him when he looked at Sorey praise Lailah for her knowledge and ask if there was others types of volcanoes but then his eyes caught Gramps walking with them and his cheeks warmed.

How could he have forgotten that there was also a lightning Seraph traveling with them now, and his own Gramps at that?

It made him incredibly happy, the idea that Gramps was safe and traveling with them, sharing their discovery of the world and being part of this, of this adventure for a lack of better words. He was so eager to make Gramps proud of all his progress.

Well, it was still fresh and he had caught himself more than once looking back to see if Alisha needed a break only to remember that she was still recovering back in Deningrad. Saying he missed her would be too soon but to be honest her absence was a gap in the group dynamic he was wasn’t used to.

"Since we are talking about geographics," Zaveid said, interrupting Mikleo's train of thought,

"It's geology," Edna corrected him.

Clearing his throat after the interruption, Zaveid went on, "Well, like Lailah said the underground activity here creates a perfect environment for cold blooded creatures, plus the secluded valley provides a perfect shelter for a certain species that certain nerds were interested about, thus making this place the Dragon Paradise I once mentioned!" he stated proudly.

Mikleo saw Sorey’s eyes widen before he could register that his shoulders were held tightly and he was shaken lightly. He barely had time to process Zaveid words too. Did he really say they were walking on the Dragon Lands of legend?

"You heard that, Mikleo! This is the Land of Dragons! We are going to observe real wild Dragons in their natural habitat!" mouth hanging open, then closing it, Mikleo nodded enthusiastically as Sorey moved back to Zaveid, "That’s what you meant right? Dragons? Are they different forms, different sizes, what do the babies look like?"

Zaveid seemed a little overwhelmed, with Sorey leaning more into his space with each question, his smirk turning hesitant as he was bombarded. Mikleo scoffed, as he crossed his arms over his chest, served him right for never respecting people's boundaries in the first place. Zaveid should have expected the extent of Sorey's interest.

"You already saw several of them." Mikleo sighed, still trying to keep Sorey's feet on the ground. He too was starting to feel exhausted by Sorey’s liveliness even though he was also impatient to see those Dragons.

Gramps chuckled as his hand landed on Sorey's back, "It is nice to see you haven't changed that much."

Blushing, Sorey scratched his cheek, "Ah, we sure saw a lot of things but it feels like there is so much more for the world to offer."

Patting his back, Gramps smiled at him before his gaze turned toward Mikleo, offering him that same smile "There are many things you both have yet to see. I'm happy that you are finally adult enough to see them for yourselves."

Those words make Mikleo's heart pound hard in his chest, but it wasn't in a painful way. If he should name the feeling Mikleo would say it a mix between a sense of relief, and feeling loved that overcame him. For a second, he was under the impression that Gramps knew they had brought their relationship further than being friends- though they had yet to breach the subject with him and that’s not something Mikleo was in a rush to do- and that was his veiled approval.

"I also have a question, before we run straight into the lion's den, not like that isn't what we always do but that about that thing?"

It was Rose’s voice that made Mikleo remember to breathe and he exhaled through his nose, feeling a weird tension leave his shoulders.

"It does seem like we move from a Dragon's lair to another Dragon's lair." Edna deadpanned

It was a good observation considering the fact that they indeed traveled around the world to go after Feyrbrand, and then there was Eizen and now this.

"That must be the so called fates of the Dragoons tied to the Dragons I so often heard my mentor talk about." Rose shrugged, "But that was not what I was talking about."

To asses her point she held the Dragon Blocking staff higher, letting it peak out of the protective leather sheath Queen Selene gave them. The long piece of wood was very simple in its design, with the wood weaving around a green gem at the top of it. The sunlight was filtered weirdly by the stone, casting greenish shadows on Rose's face as she held it closer to look.

"I mean, it's supposed to stop the Divine Dragon from using his powers but our Dragoon powers originate from Dragon's too. Wouldn’t that mean it would also affect us too?"

Mikleo stopped in his tracks overcame with the fact that Rose bought up a very good question. This could change everything and he was suddenly dreading that they would be fighting without the very powers that were supposed to give them advantages. His circlet felt warm against his forehead, the singing in his head changing slightly with his state of mind, as if it tried to sooth him reminding him that it stood ready to grant them his armor.

"You aren't wrong in that young lady." Gramps answered and Mikleo's heart stopped beating. "But the thing is we Dragoon channel our mana through our very human shepherd’s resonance, and that can't get affected by the Staff. Hellions miscalculated that in the war and it was ultimately the alliance of humans, seraphim and dragon that brought their demise."

Resonance.

The word ringed into Mikleo's ears and his tongue felt heavy with the need to pronounce its syllable. The Celestial Record was the first book he ever read making usage of that word, yet it was never truly explained what it was and though Lailah had pronounced it many time since training them into their armor, it was like Mikleo had simply forgot how Dragoons power worked in the first place.

Without Sorey, without Rose beside him, his circlet would have remained jewelry and nothing else. He would never have had the power to protect Sorey.

Mikleo wondered what it meant for Sorey to grant them, the five of them, his resonance.

Was it like using mana? Was it taxing on him? Looking at Sorey, he seemed no different, a bit tired but they all were after spending last night in the wild and sleeping on the hard ground. No, Mikleo was certain that just like him Sorey had grown into his Dragoon powers. Maybe it had affected him at first but now Sorey was strong enough to channel all of them and he had Rose to support him too, Mikleo shouldn't forget Rose was a shepherd too, she was the one to awaken him.

"We could use the armatus! I'm sure it will work wonderfully. Do you think you are ready to try, Rose, Edna, Zaveid?" Lailah claimed, looking very proud of her idea.

Rose shrugged, "Better try now than never."

"I have yet to try my own armor." Mikleo swore there was a slight pout on Edna's lips.

"Whatever shep want to try me." Zaveid said.

"You better not fill my head with your perverted thoughts."

Rose punched his shoulder lightly and Zaveid feigned indignation but before they could continue their banter, Gramps asked,

"Armatus? It’s the first time I hear that word." Gramps's confusion was evident on his face.

Mikleo wondered what it was like to have been a Dragoon in the old times. Was the world more peaceful that history never mentioned them but those from the Dragoon Campaign? A shame really that Gramps barely remembered it.

Lailah nodded, twirling to illustrate her words, "Ah, the spell is rather young. I think it was elaborated by the last generations of shepherds or maybe the one before them? Anyway, it consists in rechanneling our essence directly inside the Shepherd’s body, using our Dragoon Spirit as catalyst. It's like our very essence merge with the Shepherd and we make one and gift them the weapon fitting our soul. They are then able to use even more powerful artes from our elements."

"I did it with Lailah and Mikleo!" Sorey stated, proudly, "It was amazing, I felt like I could lift entire mountains." He showed off his biceps, his cloak concealing most of his muscles rendered the act quite ridiculous.

Mikleo knows just how shaped Sorey truly was underneath. Reining in his wandering thought Mikleo coughed in his fist, trying not to laugh.

Gramps eyes were very wide and Sorey’s bright smile turned into a hesitant smirk, "This could have been dangerous." Gramps mused.

"I had trust in Lailah."

"I had trust in Sorey."

Both answer left their mouth at the same time and Shepherd and Fire Seraph shared a knowing glance. Gramps seemed appeased, the tension in his shoulders easing. He was right to point this could have been dangerous, but just like Sorey, Mikleo had trust in Lailah.

"You have a very good prime lord, I’m glad you were in good hands."

Lailah beamed at the praise. Coming from a Great Lord as respected and powerful as Gramps it must have been quite the feast inside her chest, though she concealed it well.

"I trust Meebo." Edna felt the need to add.

There was just that feeling, that impeding sense of doom that told Mikleo not to take the bait, not to respond to Edna. But was there ever a time he could refrain himself, "Why does it matter suddenly. "

"Because you are short, you are not very shady."

Jaw slack Mikleo watched her smug smirk as everyone seemed to explode around them. Lailah was loudly praising Edna, incredulous that she had beaten her to that one. Zaveid was choking himself with laughter, Rose had her hand covering her mouth in compassion but her shoulders were shaking from repressed laughter. Sorey was red and trying not to look at him making Mikleo want to douse him in water. However it was way Gramps not so discreetly refrained to snicker that cracked his resolve.

"I could say the same to you!" He snapped.

"Lame." Edna said.

That was a stinging loss.

There was no more time for playfulness as they climbed the Mountain of the Mortal Dragon’s slopes. The sky was open, the sun low, night falling more quickly in the North. Mikleo remembered having read that it had to do with their planet being a sphere whose Northern pole was leaning slightly farther from the sun than the rest of the planet.

He would have thought about it more if the tension around him wasn't that stifling, they were close to the Dragon's hideout. The ground they walked on was grey and dry, probably constituted of millennia old ashes. It was drier than the valley tundra, the rock sometimes smooth sometimes bursting out of the ground, Mikleo easily imagined that far in the past a volcano exploded here. A foul odor of rotten eggs permeated the air, sulfur and maybe ammonia Lailah had stated before Zaveid could ask who farted grabbing Sorey's arm and forcing him away from the plume of smoke that sometimes rose from cracks in the rocks.

They had yet to see those lesser Dragons Zaveid promised but as they neared a narrowed passageway, were the rock wall was higher Mikleo noticed lots of cracks and holes. The rocks were dark and it was a bit hard to see but Mikleo swore he saw something shift and hiding deeper in the shadows. There was a hissing sound like a snake when he tried to get closer.

"They are hiding," Zaveid said shaking his head as he ushered Mikleo back on the trail, "They usually are curious and like to roam around visitors. I would have liked for you to see that. Something his scaring them though, and I can't help thinking it’s a really bad omen."

Rarely was Zaveid this serious, nearly scowling at the hiding Dragons. He then looked back toward the mountain pikes right before them. His expression made Mikleo's skin crawl. He too could feel the danger, the smell of death permeating the very air.

They were prepared though, the chant of his Dragoon spirit continuously reminding Mikleo that it was ready, that he would be strong enough.

They only stopped next when Lailah, leading the way with Zenrus at her side let out an audible gasp, her hands coming to cover her mouth.

Mikleo had to push past Sorey and Zaveid to better see what had startled her. His eyes widened in horror as Gramps humming voice certified their finding.

"The body is still warm. It must have been killed recently."

The vision was one of carnage. One Mikleo wasn't prepared to see just yet. It was a large body lying on the mountain trail, yellow ichor surrounding its deep wounds. It looked like an overgrown lizard, around the size of a horse though it was hard to tell when head and torso was on one side of the trail while the rest of the body was on the other, its entrails scattered before Lailah's feet. Mikleo could distinguish a severed leathery wing near its tail.

A Dragon.

Crouching near the corpse, Zaveid inspected the wounds, "This wasn't made by claws or jaws."

The creaking of Rose gloves as she balled her fist sounded louder in the still air, "It was cleaved in two. It means someone else is here with us. And I can think of only one name."

She didn't dare pronounce it, should it raise her anger. It was a wise decision everyone followed.

It put an end to tergiversation as there was no need to linger on the dead Dragon any longer. Mikleo still caught Sorey’s glance as they walked past the remains, his nose scrunching just slightly. Like Mikleo, he must be thinking about how disappointing it was that the only native Dragon they get to meet was a dead one.