White clouds painted through the midday clear blue sky, moving along with the breeze. The beauty of the scene was reflected in a crimson-eyed boy. Simply watching as those blobs of white fluff just gave in to the whims of the wind, letting destiny take control of them, molding them into whatever shape it saw fit.

  The watching boy simply lay on the ground observing them go by, waiting for something to happen or for something to end. However, he wasn't alone; his brother Roy could be seen on the swing of one of the nearby trees, sitting in Maryan's lap.

  The gentle sway of her legs moved the swing. Her watchful gaze shifted from the boy on her lap to the other, who lay motionless, gazing up at the clouds. He hadn't moved from that spot for most of the day; he didn't even bother to spend any time in the training zone to sharpen his skills with a blade or to try and further his magical abilities.

  While it wasn't the first time she's seen him like this, especially given the event that would be starting today. However, what caused her worry to grow was the lack of hero stories he adored.

  "I wonder what he's thinking about." Maryan wondered aloud.

  "He's probably waiting for Lucina to come over today," Roy said, smiling as he answered her question.

  Curiosity took over her mind, wondering what the boy had gotten up to when he was in Eden. So, doing what she does best, Maryan decided to pick the brain of the boy sitting on her lap for information. "So, Roy, can you tell me who this Lucina is?" Each word left her mouth was softer than silk.

  "She's an elf we met in Eden Village." Roy answered

  "Is that so? Tell me what she's like. Was she nice to you when you visited Eden?"

  "Yeah, she was nice, Red told me they read one of his stories together." Roy continued to recount their time in Eden Village to Maryan, telling her about the fun they had from watching practice magic to the duel between the two he got to watch as he enthusiastically told her about what happened. Maryan could help but smile at him.

  "So this Lucina is coming over today, right? I hope I get to meet her." Her keen eyes noticed that Red had stood up and was making his way back to the mansion.

  "Red, where are you going?" She called out.

  "I'm getting a drink, do you want anything?"

  "Can I get a juice box, please?" Roy answered.

  "No, thank you, be careful." Maryan called out.

  "I'm just going to the kitchen, it's not like im can go anywhere."

  Making his way back inside, he walked through the white walls of his home and towards the kitchen. However, an unknown force started to follow him. The boy was oblivious to the presence following him; his mind wandered through the corners of his mind.

  Once he arrived at the kitchen, he opened the fridge, grabbing a juice box for Roy and a water bottle for himself. Leaving the kitchen, he made his way back to the backyard to continue his cloud watching, but this majestic being had other plans. The moment he left the kitchen, the 'trespasser' swiped him up.

  "AAAAHHH!!"

  ——————————————————

  Maryan was happily swinging away with Roy. Smiles painted both their faces as they enjoyed the serene, almost musical melody of the singing birds that joined the rhythmic sounds of insects riding on the winds as they called out to a partner, trying to continue the cycle that the spring started. This spring music was always welcomed by her senses.

  "AAAAHHH!!"

  The cry caused Maryan to snap out of her trance and shift in the direction of it, recognizing Red's voice. In a flash, she set Roy on the ground before she rocketed off. A large boom as she took off, leaving Roy confused. Confusion came over him as Maryan vanished at hypersonic speed. Finding his footing, he followed after her indoors.

  Moving at such blinding speed, she bolted through the door and raced to the origin of the cry. Arriving just mere seconds later, she arrived; however, she stopped once she saw who was holding Red.

  It was the twenty-two-year-old half-elf whose short, pointed ears poked through her long, light silver hair that fell freely down her back. She held him in a tight embrace, the boy's head smothered in her chest. She wore a dominantly black dress with a blue trim at the wrist, neck, and bottom, which stretched below her knees, along with open-toed back shoes and a brown bag by her waist with the strap going over her shoulder.

  As Roy arrived, excitement grew in the boy as he recognized the 'trespasser' who was currently smothering his brother in her chest.

  Maryan could see that Red was squirming, trying to get loose. She found the sight rather humorous. Watching the boy try and fail to escape her grasp, only to be pulled in further as his cheeks started to match the color of his eyes.

  Sighing, she made her way to prevent the poor boy from suffocating from the woman's embrace, but before she could intervene, a loud voice cried out. This new sound was the opposite of the calming sounds she enjoyed outside. It caused her to grimace, finding the new voice rather annoying to her sensitive ears. This new sound had gained the attention of everyone in the room, with many mixed reactions as the women wondered who this white cloaked stranger was.

  "Let Red go! Now!!!"

  ——————————————————

  Lucina had donned her attire from the other day. Her cloak draped over her body as she packed her bag, filling it with a change of clothes, a spare pair of shoes, a blanket, and even a book or two. She had placed her sword by the side of her bag. An excited look painted her face at the thought of visiting her new friend. Her thoughts of how his house looked filled her mind. Images of massive castles with high towers, knights on constant surveillance, just like the ones in her stories.

  The sound of someone hitting her door made her leave her thoughts and turn to the door as it opened, revealing Lumara. "Lucina dear, are you almost ready?"

  "Yeah, Mom, I just finished packing." She closed her bag, sword in hand, she went to hug her mom. The pair soon made their way to the backyard, where her father was sitting, drinking a glass of water.

  "I see you're ready to go." Indigo was greeted by Lucina's smile as she nodded her head. "Hold it, what do you have there?" He jested towards her hand.

  "My sword? I was gonna bring Eden's Dawn and have a few matches with Red again. I'm gonna beat him this time."

  It took him a moment, but he just groaned. "Just don't cause any trouble."

  Lumara smiled at the exchange as she donned the black ring on her finger and searched her memories, and soon, the image of the Raiser Estate. To her, it was a happy memory of when she and Lyn were both playing with the friends they shared when they were kids. The silver ruins started to glow brightly, and a green outline soon expanded, forming the portal. Lucina was awestruck not just at the portal, but the building on the other side was a very large white house with greenery that painted the front with a black tile roof. There were dozens of windows and a large pair of doors. To the small village elf, it looked more like one of the mansions she'd seen in stories.

  'It's a nice-looking house, but I was kinda expecting a castle.'

  "Lucina." Her father called out, causing her to change her focus. "Now I know we've already talked about this, but I'll tell you again. You have been invited as a personal guest of the Riser family and the royal summit between eight different kingdoms of Keltic, I expect you to be on your best behavior. Because you aren't just going to represent Eden Village, but also Lyndis, since you're her guest."

  "I know, I'm not a little kid." She smiled at them both, hopping through the portal, landing on the brick walkway.

  Turning back to them, she waved to both her parents as the portal started closing, and soon it closed, and she turned to face the building. With a pepe in her step, she made her way to the front door and was about to knock on the door...

  "AAAAHHH!!"

  Her hand stopped inches from the door; she knew the voice. Her mind was racing with hundreds of thoughts until a single one struck her mind.

  'Red needs help.'

  She reached for the door and pulled it open, rushing into the unfamiliar building. She didn't know where she was going; all she knew was that her friend might need help.

  Running down the hall, the sound of struggling grew closer, and when she turned the corner, she found her way to the screaming. She saw Red in the grips of a white haired woman, and he was thrashing, trying to get loose. Her hand ignited, and she aimed her blue flame at the stranger.

  "Let Red go! Now!!!"

  This drew the attention of not just the woman before her, but now she had the attention of a lavender-haired woman with a long scar across her face, her gaze turned sharp, so sharp the fire in her hand vanished.

  Lucina, all she felt was terror, as if this woman before her could erase her existence with a simple wave of her hand. She tried to show a determined look, trying to hide her fear.

  It didn't work.

  Her legs felt like they would give out any moment, and a cold sweat ran down her back. This feeling of dread only worsened when the heterochromic woman started to approach. Each step echoed in Lucina's heart; her terror was reflected by but green and purple eyes. As the woman grew closer, Lucina tried to reach for Eden's Dawn, only for her body to freeze.

  However, this distraction gave the boy the moment he needed to break out of the grip of his 'captor' and, understanding the situation, he rushed in front of Lucina, arms spread out. Trying to shield her or act a likde a stopgap. "Maryan, wait, this is Lucina, my friend from Eden Village." He called out, trying to calm the situation down.

  This action from the boy got a few different responses. The first was Roy, whose smile radiated, lighting upon seeing Lucina again.

  Next was Maryan, whose cold, sharp gaze started to relax, returning to the warm, welcoming one the boys were used to. Slowly approaching the young girl, with each step, Lucina felt her fear rising as the lavender-haired woman slowly got closer, until she felt something grab her hand. She looked and saw Red's hand, but not only that, he smiled at her.

  "Well, I'm sorry it looks like we started off on the wrong foot, Lucina. These two have told me a lot about you. My name is Maryan Gorgen, their caretaker."

  To Lucina, the soft, comforting voice that came from the woman before was in deep contrast to the glare that was in her eyes just moments ago. It seemed to appear out of thin air. She just stood there looking at her, her eyes were drawn to the scar that ran down her face, it had her gaze was fixed on it. Until a voice broke her out of her trance.

  "It's rude to stare, you know." Red joked. This call back only caused Lucina to slightly turn red with embarrassment as she faced Maryan, who only smiled at the young elf.

  "It's nice to meet you. I'm sorry for barging in." With her hands gripping the bottom of her shirt, she gave a small bow. Maryan could only smile at the girl.

  However, the third and final reaction was different; her confused face soon turned mischievous. Her smile only grew with each step she took; her eyes seemed fixated on a young pair of hands. Red took notice of her gaze as she approached, releasing his grip. The image that caught her attention was reflected in her hazel gaze. As she got closer to the young pair and her eyes fixated on her target.

  Lucina.

  "Why hello there, I don't think I have properly introduced myself. I am Morgan Harfall, child of Lord Silver and Lady Altria of Lyonya." The half-elf spoke.

  Lucina froze, staring into her hazel green eyes. 'I haven't been in Phera or even five minutes, and I've already threatened not just their caretaker, but a princess from a different kingdom. I'm so dead!'

  "I'm sorry, please forgive me!!" In a flash, Lucina planted herself against the floor. Her hood covers her head as she fell to her knees, pressing both her hands and head on the floor, begging for forgiveness, trying to make herself look as small as possible.

  Morgan could only cover her mouth with one of her hands as she laughed at the display of the young elf, causing Lucina to raise her head and to meet Morgan's smile.

  "It's quite all right. Given that this is the first time we've met, I'll let it slide. After all, a friend of Red is a friend of mine. However, I would like to know why you're here. It's not very common for us to have guests during the summit."

  "Well, Red promised we'd meet up again, and he said we could meet up during the summit. So Miss Lyndis invited me." That answer only seemed to cause Morgan's curious smile to widen.

  "So Red made a promise to meet you again, is that right?" Morgan questioned, her gaze turned to Red, seeing him stiffen, but then the young elf soon returned to her line of sight.

  Lucina could only nod her head, and this caused Morgan's eyes to shift between Lucina and Red. Unlike Lucina, Red saw the look in Morgan's eyes, and it's a look he's seen before; it was one he didn't like.

  "So Lucina, how long have you two known each other?" Morgan's question seemed harmless to Lucina, but to Red, it was anything but harmless.

  "We met in Eden Village a few weeks ago."

  "So how did you meet my young friend?"

  "Well, you see, I saw him get turned away by others, until I saw him leave the main area. So I followed him and then we became friends, read stories together, and hung out. Then we both went back to my house, where we practiced magic and swordsmanship together." Lucina happily retold what happened that day.

  "Then may I ask what you think of him now?"

  "He's cool and not bad with a sword."

  Once Morgan heard this, her smile grew wider and she turned her gaze to now blushing Red. Her playful grin soon started to hurt, but she didn't care as she pushed forward. Maryan simply watched the spectacle, amused by pairs' differing reactions. "So I assume that's when Miss Lyn invited you here, to visit, right?"

  Red wanted to respond, but Lucina spoke before him. "Not really Red said that he would come to Eden Village again today, but I ended up coming instead because of the summit." Lucina told Morgan. After hearing that, she couldn't hold back any longer.

  As she moved her hand to her cheek. A smiling Morgan turned her gaze to Red. "My, My. Red, I never thought you would be so forward with someone you just met."

  This caused different reactions to appear on the faces of those present. A sighing Maryan could only smile, already knowing what the next words that were likely to come out of Morgan's mouth next. Like Maryan, Red had an idea of what she was going to say, but unlike his caretaker, the thought didn't excite him. However, neither Lucina nor Roy didn't knew what Morgan meant by those words.

  "Excuse me, what do you mean, Lady Morgan?" A confused Lucina wondered; her voice had a more held-back tone.

  Her question only caused Morgan's smile to widen further. Her eyes moved from Red then to Lucina, and finally, the image pairs connected hands resurfaced. "There's no need to be so formal with me after all, you're close with Red, right?" She simply nodded her head, confused by her elder's question. "So tell me, are you Red's gi—

  The moment Red heard those words, he grabbed Lucina's wrist and took off running. Dragging her as they made their way to the front door, before they exited, he called out to Maryan.

  "We're heading out! I'm gonna show Lucina around, we'll be back by dinner!" He shouted out to his caretaker, and with that, the two left.

  "Hey, wait for me!" The moment Red called out and tried to take off after them as they left the building. A hand grabbed his shoulder, preventing him from leaving. Turning back, he found it was Maryan who prevented him from leaving. "How come you stopped me, but not Red?"

  A groan from Mayan turned into a tired and short burst of laughter. "Well, Lady Morgan, are you pleased? It seems your attempts at teasing just made him run off... again. Why must you make my job harder?"

  "I'm sorry." Morgan gave an apologetic laugh. "It's never my intention to make things difficult for you, you know how I like to play with him. Go, I'll watch Roy in your stead. It's the least I can do."

  Maryan gave a respectful bow. "Thank you, Lady Morgan." With that said, she vanished in a flash.

  "Well, Roy looks like it's just you and me for a while. So what do you want to do?" Morgan asked her young friend.

  Roy, who picked up the water bottle and juice box from the floor, turned to face his elder and thought of what they could do. "Can we read a story?" The redhead requested.

  This brought a smile back to her face. "Of course, I found a new one that I wanted to read to both of you, but since your brother's not here, it will just be the two of us ok?"

  "Wait, you're telling me, I get to hear a new story before Red?" At first, he was skeptical of her claim, but slowly he accepted what she said. "You're not kidding? I get to hear a story that Red hasn't read yet before he does?"

  "Yes, Roy, you'll get to hear it before him. It's called 'Golden Flowers'."

  The joy on Roy's face caused Morgan's cheeks to hurt; he is just too sweet. So the pair made their way to the living room. Morgan and Roy both sat on the couch as she started to tell the story of how a young man would meet two maidens, how he would save them from the pain they both carried, and how they ultimately became one in the end.

  ——————————————————

  Running through the brick streets of Phera, Red pulled Lucina along to a destination that was unknown to the young elf.

  As they ran by, Lucina saw large, brick and mortar buildings and buildings made of wood. Many appeared to be homes with windows, giving her the smallest glimpse into some of the lives of the people. A couple was dancing for a gathering crowd, a mother was setting a rug out to shake the dust off, and an old man was letting a pie out to cool, even a small band providing music to the people there, and a small dance broke out.

  They ran past other kids and just like in Eden Village. Lucina saw many kinds of people, from humans, elves, draconians, dwarves, and zoophians, playing in the street. Many saw them run by recognizing the crimson-eyed boy. While some waved towards him, several adults took notice of the red-eyed boy. However, the only one of the pair to try and wave back as they ran was the elf, who couldn't help but notice several people throw dirty looks towards the bit, and some even pulled their children closer. All these actions went unnoticed by the crimson-eyed boy was stuck in his head, barely paying attention as he ran through the streets.

  "I can't believe she was going to say that. Why does she mess with me so much?" The boy simply felt his face turn brighter as the scene replayed in his head.

  They soon started to pass by stands that were selling things from food, jewelry, and clothing. People can be seen participating in trade. While some were just simply browsing, others were actively acquiring goods.

  "Come on, there is no way this fruit is fresh, and those vegetables look damaged." An elf could be heard speaking to a dwarf.

  "Watch your damn mouth, this is some of my best harvest. You damn knife ear, don't you dare insult my work."

  "Yeah, for a dwarf, I will admit your selection does have some decent options. But really don't you think 80 Runix is a bit much for two watermelons?" His gaze landed on two rather large, plump ones. "I mean if it were elven produce, I could understand, but—

  "Ok, that's it, first come to my stand and insult my crop, then you dare complain about my prices. I swear if there weren't children present, I would ring your scrawny neck."

  The two were locked in their argument that they didn't take notice of a brown haired boy, pulling a blond elf girl as they ran through the crowd. However, others started to take notice, with many of them recognizing the boy, and many wondered who he was dragging along with him.

  The two kept running. Red didn't seem to slow down, as if he wanted to arrive at the destination he had in mind as soon as possible.

  "Red, where are we going?" Lucina asked, gasping as she spoke.

  "You'll see soon, we're almost there." Turning his head towards her, but once he turned, he saw Lucina was tired and started having trouble keeping up, it caused him to stop and come to a slow walk. "Sorry."

  "It's ok." Lucina said in between gasps, trying to catch her breath.

  Red guided her along slowly towards a bench where she was finally able to sit down and catch her breath. Once he saw that she settled, he made his leave. "Wait here, I'll be right back, ok."

  Lucina could only nod her response. With that, he made his way to a vendor, but he made sure that he was in Lucina's line of sight and that he could still keep his eye on her.

  From the rooftops, unbeknownst to them, the sharp watchful eyes of a viper kept a sharp eye on them as she watched over the pair.

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  Lucina watched him go to one of the vendors, using the time to catch her breath. She didn't hear what was being said, but she could see the reaction of the human vendor Red approached. She thought that he would react more, well, more dramatically to the prince. But to her shock, the vendor simply greeted him like he was just another shopper. Red pointed at the sign asking for the item, holding up two fingers, saying how many he wanted. Lucina could see a small disagreement between the two when the older man looked past Red and broke out laughing at the boy as he handed over two cups, drawing the attention of a few onlookers. He was smiling as he waved his hands as if telling the boy to stop, but Red adamantly left something on the counter, taking the drinks. Lucina noticed when Red left, a dark skinned woman appeared next to the vendor, seeing what had caused his humorous mood, only for her to simply join in.

  Once Red returned, Lucina couldn't make out what he said as he took his seat before handing over one of the cups.

  "Thanks, Red." Thanking him as she took the drink, she took a sip. "It's good."

  "Yep, Mr. Xander makes the best lemonade. I always get one when I go out." Finishing his statement by taking a drink.

  The two just sat there giving themselves time to catch their breath. Neither one knew how to continue. "Hey, Lucina."

  "Yeah, what's up?'

  "Thanks."

  "Huh? Thanks for what?" She asked, taking another drink.

  "For coming over, and sorry about Morgen."

  "Well then, you're welcome. But can I ask you something?"

  "Sure what is it?"

  A wave of dread and fear washed over her as she spoke. "Maryan... is she always that scary?"

  The glare she received from the lavender-haired woman still made her shiver. She felt as if the woman was still staring into her very soul.

  He could only chuckle at the question. "Yeah, she's always been like that, but I've always been able to see her softer side; she's like an aunt to me."

  Unaware, those comments were heard by Maryan and caused her to smile. Once the two finished their drinks, Red continued to lead Lucina to the destination he had planned.

  ——————————————————

  Finally, the pair arrived at their destination and stood in front of a brick ranch-style home with a single level; a chimney could be seen going through the angled roof. To Lucina, it was a rather simple house, even when compared to the other homes in Eden. She couldn't help but notice the flower garden that added color to the front yard.

  Lucina watched Red approach the door and knocked on it, alerting those inside that someone was there. The door swung inward, revealing a draconian woman. Her light turquoise blue scales on her arms were visible; her coffee brown hair was tied at the end over her left shoulder onto her well-endowed chest. She wore comfortable, fitting clothes that covered her body, a short-sleeved maroon shirt, and gray pants. Her tail could be seen moving back and forth, excited to see the boy. Her soft chocolate brown eyes were just as welcoming as her smile when she saw who was at her door.

  "Well, isn't this a nice surprise? How are you today, Red?"

  "I'm good. Miss Tastu, is Hector home?"

  "I'm sorry, but Hector isn't home right now; he's with Ash and Arthur." Her soft voice informed him. But slowly her face became stern as she continued. "Shouldn't you be back home? Does Lyn know you're out, young man?"

  "Well, you see ah..."

  "That's because of me, ma'am. Red said he was going to show me around."

  Tastu turned her gaze to the elf, then back to the crimson-eyed boy; she only gave him a disappointed look. "Red, I'm disappointed in you. Where are your manners?"

  Lucina could only watch, stunned as this draconian was scolding the boy. 'He's a prince, right? Why is she scolding him like his mother?'

  "So what are you waiting for? Introduce us."

  "Right. Lucina, this is Tastu Scaleback. Miss Tastu, this is Lucina Starfall."

  "It's nice to meet you, Miss Tastu."

  "And you as well, Lucina." A new smile caused her soft expression to return. "Now Red, I'm pretty sure that they're either at the park or at the apothecary."

  "Thanks, Miss Tastu. Come one Lucina

  When the pair was about to take off, they were halted in their tracks. "Hold on a minute, you two." Her words prevented the pair from leaving as she made her way inside.

  She was gone for only a few moments. But once she returned with a basket. Presenting the contents to them, it was full of sandwiches, with the crust cut off. Many consisted of lettuce, different types of cheese, pickles, and meats from bacon, chicken, turkey, and ham.

  "It will be lunch soon, and I made something for Hector. I was just about to leave before you arrived." Her voice changed, trying to mimic a refined, noble tone. "So, my young hero, may you honor the request of this maiden and deliver this package." Tastu playfully asked, performing a curtsy.

  Red played along, bowing with one arm across his chest and the other behind his back. "Yes, malady, I will complete your humble task."

  Lucina didn't just want to stand aside and watch, so she simply joined in the fun. "Then I shall accompany him on this quest; it's dangerous to go alone." Lucina stated as she took the basket and took off running, leaving Red and Tastu behind.

  "Hey, wait up, you don't know where you're going!"

  She could only watch as the young pair ran off. She couldn't help but laugh at the scene before losing them in the crowd.

  —————————————————

  Three familiar boys could be seen at a park, they were sitting on the swings in the center, sat Ash Cromed, the ashen gray-haired boy whose charcoal black eyes just wandered the sky. To his left sat a boy who was bigger when compared to the other two, and his turquoise blue scales that covered the top of his arms were covered by a loose white sweater; his tail could be seen on the ground, his black spiky hair was standing up, and his bored brown eyes just seemed to wander. This familiar dragonian was Hector Scalebone, someone as time passed, grew fit and over a foot taller than the rest of the group. Even when sitting, he stood over his friends, and on Ash's right was Arthur Cromed. The light-blond-haired boy wore his usual green shirt and brown pants, his emerald green eyes searched the area, trying to find something to entertain himself. The group could be heard chatting about what to do next.

  "I'm bored, are you sure that isn't anything we can do?" A bored Arthur remarked, his hands perched behind his head as he looked at the sky.

  "Yeah, but do you want to try and spare with only three people? It would just turn into the two of you fighting, with me getting involved before you both try to kill each other." Ash informed him.

  "Then let's go get Red. That way we can all get some practice."

  "You idiot, he has to attend the summit; we can't interrupt that. Let's just go back to your place, Ash. I'm getting hungry." Hector said, getting off the swing.

  As the small group left the park and started walking down the street as they made their way back to Ash's home. As they made their way back, Arthur and Hector were just talking about what they should do for lunch.

  Ash, however, was walking behind the two, daydreaming. Images of a great sorcerer who had mastery of magic painted the walls of his mind.

  The sorcerer wore a black cloak with a gold trim at the seams. It ran from the outline of his hood and down the opening, revealing the purple undershirt, long black pants, and gray shoes. His ashen hair blew along with his clothing, swaying with the air current in his hand that was decorated with rings, each having a jewel that represented a different element. He stood opposed against a mighty beast, and as he took a step forward to finish the beast, he....

  .... He collided with something, or rather, something collided with him, knocking them both to the ground.

  Holding his head from the pain of the collision, Ash soon opened one eye to see a zoophian girl who was carrying a brown paper bag. Her long midnight black hair fell just above her waist, her fox-like ears, and a fluffy-looking tail that was white at the end, making the bright color pop out against the black tail. All those features combined to make her look like a fox. However, what drew Ash's attention was her clothing; they were in decent condition, but they clearly showed their age. It didn't help that it had started to lose its color. What used to be a long white shirt with black had gone dull; the same could be said for the black skirt she wore. But what captured him were the small cuts and bruises that covered her hands, along with the rest of her viable skin.

  The girl opened her eyes, revealing her sunset yellow eyes, and the moment their eyes met, she ran into an alley. Ash could only try to reach out, but before he knew it, she was gone. She left her bag behind, something the ashen-haired boy took notice of.

  "What's in here?" Curiosity took over the boy, and against his better judgment, he opened it to take a look, and to his surprise, he found potions that were filled with a clear liquid, potions meant to help with sickness.

  Picking up the bag, he ran down the alleyway she ran down.

  Arthur and Hector just kept walking."So you got a taste for anything, Hector?"

  "That kabob stand is normally open by now. But in reality, anything will do, I'm just getting hungry."

  "So, Ash, what do you want to get?" Arthur asked, turning back to expect an answer, only to see that his brother was gone.

  "Hector, where did Ash go?"

  "What do you mean he's—

  Looking back, there was no trace of the ashen-haired boy, only the moving crowd.

  ""Crap.""

  ——————————————————

  As the sound waves crashing against the cliffside only joined the thunderstorm's orchestra, two golden-haired maidens desperately clung to the rain-soaked arms of their struggling, wounded hero.

  "You can't save us both, so please let me go... it's ok." Calmly speaking out, the one he gripped in his right hand, flashing a smile at him.

  These words shock the orange-eyed young man to his very core, but before he could speak, the other voice called out.

  "No, let me go. If it means you both got to live, I'd be ok with that." Cried the one on his left.

  "Would you both shut up!! I'm not letting go! You both are my golden flowers. I refuse to let either one of you wither, so just be quiet!" His grip on the two only tightened against the rain as he cried out in defiance. "I promised you both that I would stay by your side, so just let me take care of you two. So just don't let go of me."

  The two could only stare at him as he pulled. He wouldn't relent; he promised the two that he would be there to keep them safe. Against the crashing thunder, he rose, pulling the two flowers with him. The weight made his arms feel as if they would snap off, but he endured, because for them he would pull through any pain, so with the strength of thousands of men, he pulled–

  "Hey Morgen, can I ask you something?"

  The silver-haired half-elf could give a pouting scowl at the redhead. "You know, you're a lot like your brother. You both seem to have the worst timing when it comes to interpreting stories."

  Scratching the back of his head, he apologized. "Hehe, sorry about that."

  "So what was so important that you needed to interrupt me... Wait, do you not like the story?" A look of shock filled her at the thought of her perfect record of finding stories the two enjoyed was in jeopardy of being broken

  "No, it's not that. The story is great. It's just that well...

  Hearing the change in his tone, caused her to drop the pouting facade. Running her hand through his bright scarlet hair, her calm voice called out to him. "What did you want to talk about?"

  Roy didn't speak; Morgen only watched as his hand rise. At first, there was nothing, but then, there was a hot flash of light. There in his palm stood a bright, roaring flame. "Roy, that's amazing, you're Lyn's kid." She couldn't help but be proud of him, but his face didn't reflect the same pride as she did. "So this is the problem right?"

  Nodding at her question, his eyes didn't move away from the dancing flame. "I don't know how to tell Red."

  "What do you mean by that? I'm sure Red would only be proud of you."

  "I want to tell him, but I'm afraid that he would get upset knowing that I'm already ahead of him."

  The look in his eyes was like reading a storybook to her. So she delved deeper into the turning pages of the boy's current chapter. "Then tell me what does that flame mean to you?"

  "Well, I want to be like Red. So it's a first step."

  "Then you have nothing to worry about because I'm positive it would only make him work harder to meet that pedestal you place on him." Reassuring him to smile, getting up from her seat, she closed the book, leaving him confused. "Now come on, let's see what you can do."

  Following her lead, Roy rose from his seat as they made their way to the backyard.

  ——————————————————

  The fox girl ran down the alley trying to put as much distance between her and the street. Her sore feet came to a stop; she couldn't take another step. "That was close. I need to get the medicine home to ma... WHERE'S THE BAG??!!" She cried, and panic soon took over at the realization she lost it.

  "Where did I drop it? That's right, I left it behind when I ran into him." She sat against the building, bringing her head down, hugging her knees. Her face grew warm as tears began to fill her eyes. It only took a few moments for the dam to break as her face started to leak.

  "Hey, are you ok?" A concerned voice caused her to look up, and to her confusion and anger, it was the boy from earlier.

  "What do you want?" She demanded.

  "Well, I saw you forget this, so here." The boy gave her the bag. "Also because I well you're hurt and I want to help."

  The girl could only stare at the bag. Her face lit up, shredding the despair that painted her face. She snatched the bag back, hugging it close to her. She stopped fighting it and just let the tears flow, happy to have gotten her bag back.

  During this, the boy slowly extended his hand to the zoophain as he began to chant.

  "Please, guardian spirits, hear my call. I request your help to mend the wounds of the injured, so that they can continue with their journey."

  Full Heal

  After he spoke, his hand gave off a faint green light, and he reached his hand out to the girl.

  "It's ok, you can trust me, go on, you can take my hand." His smile caused the girl to grow suspicious, curious as to why he was helping her.

  Slowly, she reached out, accepting his offer, and took his hand in hers. She felt a soothing green aura wash over her, and her injuries began to disappear.

  "I'm Ash Cromed, it's nice to meet you. What's your name?"

  Drying her tears, she answered him. "It's Fir, Fir Crescent."

  Soon, the green light faded, and Ash let go of Fir's hand, taking a seat against the wall. His fatigue was visible, his breathing was slightly labored.

  "Hey are you ok?" Concern for the boy who helped her started to form.

  Ash, focused on returning to a normal breathing rate, spoke. "Yeah, I'm ok, I just recently learned that, so I'm still getting used to it. So what's in the bag?"

  "It's for my Dad, you see, my family was hit by hard times before we came here, and now... well, he's not doing the best, and I was finally able to earn enough money for the medicine." As she spoke, she held the bag closer.

  "Well then, let's not keep him waiting." Ash said as he got back to his feet and offered Fir his hand.

  She was hesitant but still reached out, taking his hand, he pulled her back on her feet. They started walking as Fir led the way to her home.

  "So Fir, what shop did you go to?"

  "I went to Potion Parlor."

  "I figured."

  "What do you mean? They told me that these potions are top quality and will help with any kind of illness and fatigue."

  "Well, the thing is, the people who run that chain often delude the value because they have close connections with the Chomed family, and if that wasn't enough, they also overcharge for low quality."

  She stopped in her tracks, her ears fell, and her tail stopped. "So I messed up again."

  He turned only to see a new set of tears begin to form. The sight caused the boy to panic. What would his mother think if she found out he had made a girl cry.

  "Hey come on, please don't cry. Next time you need something, just come by the apothecary my family runs, ok?" He simply handed her a white handkerchief to try and dry her eyes.

  "Ok."

  Drying her eyes she continued to lead the way to the place she called home.

  ——————————————————

  As the new pair made their way down the alley, they soon reached a cross-section that led to different paths.

  "So which way is it now?"

  Looking down the alleyway, she tried to regain her bearings. "If I remember, the fastest path would be this way."

  "All right then, lead the way."

  Fir took the lead, while Ash followed. "So what's it like working at an apothecary?"

  "Well, it has its ups and downs, like I got to learn about what herbs and other ingredients are used to make potions."

  "That sounds like fun."

  "Yeah, you'd be surprised how many different types of numbing agents you can make. But I would say the best part is spending time with my family."

  Once family was brought up, Fir felt her mind wander as she stared at the ashen-haired boy, memories of her old home, before they were forced to leave their home, when she still had her whole family. Days when she played with other village kids until the sun sank into the horizon, telling her to start her short journey home to the waiting arms of her father, while her mother had dinner waiting. For years, that was her life until that day happened.

  Losing herself in the caves of her own mind she silently continued to lead, unaware of the small echo of rapid foot steps approaching when they came to another split in the alley. Fir ignored crossing the path as the footsteps grew faster and louder, but still she just wandered the path in her mind. Only to be taken out as she felt someone running to her causing the pair to be sent on to the floor.

  Out of sheer instinct her hand pressed again her head, trying to stop the radiating pain.

  ""Ow."" A pair of voices echoed as eyes opened allowing blue and yellow to met.

  "Hey, Fir you ok?" Ash questioned as he helped her up.

  "Yeah, as long as the potions aren't damaged I'm good, but who is she?"

  They turned to see the elf still knocked on the ground, rubbing her head, grabbing the basket she got up from the ground, but to Ash it was a rather familiar basket and with the lid knocked back, he saw the contents and a note.

  "Hey, sorry about that. You good?" The elf spoke, receiving a nod from the zoophian. "Do you know where we are? I kinda got lost."

  The pair could only stare dumbfounded at the elf. Until Ash spoke up. "Yeah, we're close to Arcane Alley. If you go back the way you came and take a right, you'll be at Rune Center after a few blocks."

  "Thanks, by the way I'm Luc–

  "Hey Lucina, I told you not to run off!" The cry only served to have the small group look back to see a pair of approaching red eyes, where ment with a set of mixed reactions

  "Hey Red, looks like you caught up."

  "Yeah, only after you disappeared in the crowd. I told you to wait up."

  "Heh, not my fault you can't keep up with me." A ttaunt was shot out.

  "Keep up? You took off running from Miss.Tastu 's."

  "Sure, keep telling yourself that slowpoke."

  Confused at the spat between the two, it was the only thing that prevented him from laughing at the situation

  "Hey come on we gotta go." Ash could barely hear her as she tugged on his shirt. "It's a blood eye, don't you know how bad this is?"

  At the remark he simply rolled his eyes. "You know those are nothing but myths. Besides, I've known Red since we were kids."

  "Yeah Ash and I have been pals for a long time. So, nice to meet ya." He simply extended his hand towards her.

  Her golden eyes moved from his eyes, to his hand then back to his eyes, those red eyes obly made her wave at him. "Well it's nice to meet you Red."

  "I'm starting to think you're doing this on purpose, Red. Sence he hasn't introduced me yet, you both can call me Lucina."

  As they continued their introductions a black clad individual kept watch over the small group from above only to notice the vast approach of two other guests.

  "Where the hell did you run off to?" A voice called out . Before anyone could respond an arm wrapped around Ash before grinding his fist against his head. "You have any idea who worried I was when you vanished."

  "Come on Arthur, knock it off." The ashen-haired boy complained. The girls only watched confused as Red approached the taller draconian, laughing along at Ash's situation, as the two gave a friendly clash of fists. Fir wasn't amused.

  "Hey what are you doing to Ash?" The sudden outburst caused Arthur to stop his assault on his brother, drawing his attention away from his brother only to finally take notice of the new faces he had yet to meet.

  Nice to meet you ladies, the names Arthur Cromed, the future 'King of Knights'' This statement has mixed reactions: the draconian and his younger brother just rolled their eyes.

  "Hey Red, is he really a prince like you?" Lucina's whispering question only made him laugh.

  "Arthur, a prince," he only laughed at the thought. "I don't think he could handle the pressure. I can barely handle it."

  Her attention fell back on the emerald-eyed blond as he continued to introduce himself to "So hey there cutie. You got a name?"

  "Yeah it's Fir Crescent." Her voice was uncaring, in contrast to Arthur's more confident tone

  Much to her confusion the draconian grabbed him by the back of his shirt, tossing him to the side. Only for him to land in a pile of boxes.

  "All right, 'Prince Charming' could not for once try not to hit on every girl you meet. Sorry about him, as you can see, he's well... he's stupid. Names Hector by the way." The draconian bluntly stated.

  "Hey I heard that asshole."

  "That's why I said it."

  Confused, she turned to Ash. "Yeah sorry about my brother, he can be a bit much."

  "You don't say. I'd love to stay, but I have to go."

  That comment made the group stop as Fir started to leave only to be stopped by Ash. "Hey where are you going?"

  "I already told you I need to get this home to my Dad."

  "Well then how about we tag along with you. After all, if you're Ash's friend you're one of us." Red told her as he got closer wrapping his arm around Ash's shoulder.

  She only hesitated at words of the red eye before seeing how those around didn't seem to mind his presence she gave in. "Alright but please don't think little of us for our home." Taking the led she guided them to her home,

  ——————————————————

  They walked through much of the city, soon they came to an area in ruins and in front of the group stood an old building. The stone bricks were cracked and chipped, the few visible windows' glass was broken or cracked and the wood door looked as if it would fall from its hinges. Fir opened the door and made her way home, looking back to the group, motioning for them to come in.

  As they made their way inside as Fir led them through her home, kust like on the inside, it wasn't very big and there were only one or two different rooms until they all came to a small dining room. "Here you guys can wait here, I'll be right back."

  Once Fir left the group, they prepared a spot to eat. Looking through the barren shelves, they found little food, mostly bread, eggs, and some fruit. There was mostly canned food. It didnt look much better when it came to dining wear. The plates they had were chipped and when it came to the silverware and cups, while they were clean they did show their age as details Red couldn't overlook. However, rather than join the rest of the group in their search, Ash followed to see where the zoophian was heading. Only to see her enter a small room with a man resting. in bed, he looked a lot like Fir. His hair was a similar shade of black, but unlike her there was no white, and the bags under his brown eyes betrayed the alarm front he gave once he noticed the return of the young girl.

  "Ah, Fir your home. Did you find everything alright?"

  "Yeah, Dad here. This should help." Reaching into the bag only to remove one of the viles.

  Ash watched Fir remove the lid as she handed the first one over. His hand shook as he reached out happily taking the veil, he drank it. "Thank you dear." He covered her mouth as he started to yawn. "So who's your new friend?"

  The boy still remained outside the room trying to stay out of sight. "Hello, sir. I'm Ash Cromed."

  "Nice to meet ya kid, name's Noble ."

  Ash couldn't help but wonder as his eyes roamed the dusty room, as the light showed through the small windows. There are photos of the pair with another woman standing beside them.

  "Why are they living here?" His words cause the pair to stare at him, Fir in particular was glaring at him. To the point where Ash was taken out of his head as he felt her gaze pierce him. "Ah did I say that out loud?"

  Fir didn't release her glare as she just nodded, confirming what he asked to be true.

  "Sorry."

  An awkward silence fell over the room. "Yeah it's not best, but we can manage." Noble was the one to try and disperse the stiff atmosphere. "You see a few years ago, our village was caught up in a monster raid. We lost everything and all that. So we came here to try and start anew but things haven't exactly gone as planned. Most of the jobs here don't really see the need for additional help at the moment. "

  Ash could only wonder as he looked at them both, smiling with the little they had. "There has to be something I can do to help them?"

  The sound of knocking wood and new voice pulled their attention towards the door. "Hey, may I come in?"

  The trio turned to see it was Red and with him they saw he had brought a plate with a few different types of sandwiches. The sight only caused Noble to chuckle. "Well, I'll be damned. Sorry for the mess. I wasn't expecting to have company of your caliber."

  Noble's words only cause him to give a light laugh in response as a shocked look appears Fir's wide gaze, swapping repeatedly between the boys. Ash simply found her reaction amusing; it was the same reaction many others had once they learned who Red was. This interaction was always funny to the group as they often forget about Red's title. She looked to her newfound friend, trying to make sense of the situation. Ash only smiled at her as he picked out a turkey and cheddar sandwich, nodding at her.

  "You get used to it. Honestly, for a 'Prince' he's a dork once you get to know him." Fir just gave in and joined in, taking a chicken and tomato for herself.

  "Come on, you don't have to call me anything. Red works fine for me. I'm not a fan of titles. Please take one, it looks like you need it."

  "Well then I guess the rumors are true about your family."

  "I try to live up to their expectations. Plus if Miss Tastu found out I tried to hold somthing like that over someone, let's just say I wouldn't be running from just my Mom and Grandma"

  Noble looked through the options, grabbing a bacon, lettuce and pickle sandwich, joining his young guests. Red took one with bacon, hash browns, and spinach with ketchup.

  "Lucina since you're an elf. Does that mean you can use magic?" Arthur questioned as he ate.

  "Jezz stereotype much. What's next you gonna ask me how much I lift?"

  "Oh shut it, Hector, you know what I mean.t"

  Watching the two have their spat, rather than give a verbal response, she simply held her hand in front of them as five small blue flames appeared on her fingers. This simple act stopped their arguing as they watched the creation of these flames, but so far the draconian and the charmer were not impressed, but still gave the girl their full attention.

  But then things got interesting.

  The five blue flames started to spin slowly until the speed increased. The flames spun faster and faster until they formed a glowing blue ring. She sharpened her gaze solely to the blue disk, it started to levitate. Leaving her hand, it started to slowly travel around the room. While this was a rather simple trick for many talented mages, it had them fascinated as brown and green eyes followed the disk as it moved around the room before finding its way back to the table as it circled the seated four, leaving blue streaks in its wake until Lucina brought it back to her hand. The disk slowed until five small flames returned, and with a snap of her fingers the flames went out, and Lucina was met with the sound of applause.

  "Thank you, thank you." Giving a playful seated bow.

  "Well looks like we got another mage to the group." Lucina turned to face the draconian, slightly confused by his comment.

  "Well, I guess we're no longer a quartet. Damn, and I finally managed to figure out a name for our adventure group."

  "Arthur, for the love of god, we aren't calling ourselves the 'Fearsome Four'." Hector groaned.

  "Come on, it's a good name."

  The back and forth between, simply just left her in the dark. However what she did understand and caused her to light up was when the term 'adventure group' was brought up.

  "Wait, you guys are an adventurer party?!" To say her interest peaked was an understatement. She was thrilled at the thought of having a party to travel with, dungeon dive, to form her own legacy with. "I'll have you know I'm not just a simple mage. I am quite talented with a blade, I was even able to go head-to-head with Red." Pride echoed through each one of her words.

  "Wow, beautiful and talented. I guess the legends about elves are true. If your words are true and given that display it looks like you're just better version of Re—

  Arthur's words were silenced as a draconian fist stuck his head. "Ow! Hey, what was that for dragon breath!"

  "I was stopping you from saying something stupid again."

  As the two started to bicker at one another, Lucina simply found it amusing as she fell back to her thoughts. "Red, does seem to have some rather fun company. I wonder what the others are like." Yet amongst those thoughts, another memory crossed her mind from when he showed up in Eden to the glances she saw today.

  "Hey, Hector can I ask you something?" This caused the pair to turn their attention back to the blonde elf. "Does Red have... well does he have a problem with his eyes?"

  This question did not just disrupt their bickering; it made even Arthur turn serious. The atmosphere simply felt uncomfortable. Until Hector broke the silence. "That's not really an easy topic to talk about, but in short, yes. While it doesn't happen very often once he gets that thought in his head it sticks with him."

  Curiosity took hold of Lucina. "I see, why is that?"

  Hector and Arthur simply looked at eachother, contemplating where or not to tell her. Until Arthur spoke. "I take it you're aware of the...'' he paused as if trying to find the right words. "... 'Legends' about people with red eyes, how some people, well they give him a hard time about it."

  "That's ridiculous! They give him a hard time over something like that." Her blood came to a boil at the thought of what her friend might have to go through. That was until Morgen crossed her mind.

  "So can you do us a favor?" Lucina was brought back to the draconian. "Since you have been given an invitation to attend. Can you keep an eye on him?"

  "Of course, after all, he's my friend too." While her voice was confident, the concern in her eyes changed from the two in front of her passing through the door where she saw the boy in question talking, laughing with the others.