As the carriage crested a hill, the sprawling city of Flanagan came into view, its grandeur immediately taking Haru’s breath away. The city stretched out before them, a magnificent tapestry of stone and architecture, weaving history and splendour into every corner. The morning sun bathed Flanagan in a golden light, making the pale stone buildings shimmer like a jewel set against the backdrop of the vast, open plains.
The city’s design was a harmonious blend of ancient and modern, with towering minarets and domes punctuating the skyline. These structures were intricately detailed, their surfaces adorned with elaborate carvings and mosaics that told the stories of old legends and the city’s long, storied past. The streets were wide and paved with smooth, polished stone, winding through the city in a deliberate pattern that spoke of careful planning and deep respect for tradition. The buildings, many of which were several stories high, featured arched windows and elegant balconies adorned with iron railings. At the center of the city stood a massive, domed structure—likely a grand temple or hall—its golden roof gleaming in the sunlight, visible from almost any point in the city.
Flanagan’s grandeur was further accentuated by its surroundings. The city was nestled against a backdrop of rolling hills, with lush gardens and groves of cypress and olive trees encircling its outer limits. The air was fragrant with the scent of blooming flowers and fresh herbs, carried on a gentle breeze that seemed to welcome travelers into the city.
As the carriage made its way down the wide, bustling avenue leading into Flanagan, Haru couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. He had seen many cities in his travels, but Flanagan was something special—grand and ancient, yet full of life and energy.
“This place is incredible,” Haru remarked, his eyes taking in every detail as they approached the city gates. “It’s like stepping into a different world.”
Jiro, who was seated beside him, nodded with a smile. “Flanagan is one of the oldest cities in the Kalkan Federation, and definitely one of the grandest. Its origins go back thousands of years, long before the Federation was even formed. They say it was built on the site of a sacred meeting place, where the ancient peoples of this land would gather to celebrate and worship.”
Haru listened intently, his curiosity piqued. “It definitely feels like a city with deep roots. The architecture, the layout—it all speaks of a place that’s been here for a long time.”
“Exactly,” Jiro continued. “Flanagan was once a hub for scholars, philosophers, and artisans. It’s said that some of the greatest minds in history passed through this city. Over time, it became a center of learning and culture, attracting people from all over the world. Even today, you’ll find some of the best universities and libraries here.”
Haru glanced at the towering buildings as they passed through the city’s gates, noting the intricate stonework and the serene faces of statues that lined the streets. “I can see that. There’s a certain energy here—like the city itself is alive with history and knowledge.”
Jiro chuckled. “That’s a good way to put it. Flanagan has always been a place where the past and present coexist. The people here take great pride in their heritage, but they’re also forward-thinking. You’ll see that reflected in everything—from the way the city is built to the way people live their lives.”
As they ventured deeper into the city, the streets grew busier, filled with merchants selling their wares, scholars engaged in animated discussions, and travelers from distant lands exploring the markets. The sounds of the city—the chatter of the crowds, the clatter of hooves on stone, and the distant calls of vendors—created a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Haru found himself captivated by the sights and sounds of Flanagan. “It’s so alive,” he said, more to himself than to Jiro. “There’s so much going on, but it doesn’t feel chaotic. It feels… purposeful.”
“That’s the beauty of Flanagan,” Jiro said with a grin. “It’s a city that’s always moving forward, but it never forgets where it came from.”
As they continued their journey through the city, Haru couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of anticipation. The grand reunion with his brother was close at hand, and in a place as remarkable as Flanagan, anything seemed possible. The city’s rich history and vibrant present mirrored Haru’s own journey—one of tradition and duty, but also of discovery and change.
With each passing moment, Haru felt more connected to the city, and more prepared for whatever awaited him in the next chapter of his life. As they finally approached their destination within Flanagan, he took a deep breath, ready to face whatever the future had in store.
//////////////
As Haru and Jiro made their way through the bustling streets of Flanagan’s old town, they finally arrived outside a large, imposing tavern nestled near the heart of the city. The tavern was a massive, stone-built structure, its facade weathered by time but still standing strong, exuding a sense of history and tradition. The sign above the door, carved in ornate letters, hinted at the tavern's long-standing reputation. Around the tavern, the old town’s narrow, cobbled streets buzzed with activity, and not far from the entrance stood a large barracks specifically designed to house the raptors and carriages of travelers.
Jiro expertly guided the raptors and carriage into the barracks, securing them in their designated spots. The raptors, despite their powerful stature, settled down comfortably in their stalls, clearly accustomed to such environments. Once everything was in order, Jiro turned to Haru, an eager expression on his face.
“Haru,” Jiro began, trying to sound casual but clearly excited, “would it be alright if I came in with you to meet your brother? I’m kind of a fan, you know… it’s not every day you get to meet someone like Luis Tadashima.”
Haru let out a small sigh, though there was a trace of amusement in his eyes. “Alright, Jiro, you can come in. But once we start talking, I’ll need you to give us some space. This is family business, after all.”
Jiro nodded enthusiastically, his excitement barely contained. “Of course, I’ll stay out of the way once you’re ready.”
With that settled, they made their way toward the tavern’s entrance. As they approached, Haru couldn’t help but notice the curious stares directed his way from all directions. The people of Flanagan, a mix of locals and travelers, seemed to recognize that someone of importance was passing through. Whispers spread through the crowd, and Haru could feel the weight of their gazes on him. He kept his composure, though inwardly he was aware of the attention he was drawing—something he had never been particularly comfortable with.
The moment they stepped into the tavern, Haru was struck by its rustic charm. The interior was a blend of rich, dark wood and warm, earthy tones. Low-hanging lanterns cast a soft, amber glow over the room, illuminating the well-worn tables and benches. The air was filled with the mingling scents of hearty food, strong ale, and the faint hint of smoke from the large hearth at the far end. The tavern was filled with a diverse mix of people—travelers, merchants, and locals—all engaged in lively conversations. Despite the noise, there was an underlying sense of calm, as if the tavern was a refuge from the bustling city outside.
Haru and Jiro approached the counter, where a young woman, likely in her early twenties, was tending to some orders. She had a friendly yet focused demeanor, her light brown hair pulled back into a neat braid. As Haru reached the counter, she turned to greet him, her eyes briefly meeting his before she spoke.
“Good afternoon,” she began with a professional smile. “Have you reserved a table?”
Haru, still taking in the atmosphere of the tavern, shook his head slightly. “I’m not here for a table. I’ve come to see my brother. The reservation should be under Tadashima.”
The moment the name left his lips, the young woman’s eyes widened, her professional demeanor faltering. A nervous energy seemed to ripple through her as she realized who was standing in front of her. “T-Tadashima… right, of course. Please, follow me,” she stammered, her voice a bit shaky as she motioned for Haru and Jiro to follow her.
They followed her through the tavern, past the main hall where patrons continued their conversations, seemingly oblivious to the significant guest among them. The young woman led them to a discreet door at the back, which she unlocked with a small key. She opened the door, revealing a narrow, dimly lit corridor that seemed to lead away from the rustic environment of the main tavern.
The corridor ended at another door, this one more ornate, with intricate carvings that hinted at the luxury that lay beyond. The young woman hesitated for a moment before gently pushing the door open, revealing a luxurious private room. The room was a stark contrast to the rest of the tavern—plush, with rich tapestries adorning the walls, a thick carpet underfoot, and comfortable seating arranged around a polished wooden table. The room exuded an air of quiet opulence, clearly designed to cater to high-profile guests.
The young woman turned back to Haru and Jiro, her earlier nerves still evident in her voice. “Please, make yourselves comfortable. I’ll let them know you’re here. It will just be a moment.”
With that, she quickly excused herself, leaving Haru and Jiro alone in the lavish room. Haru looked around, taking in the unexpected luxury, while Jiro stood nearby, clearly trying to keep his excitement in check. The anticipation hung in the air, thick and heavy, as they waited for the reunion that would soon unfold.
As the door swung open, Haru stepped into a room of undeniable grandeur. The first thing that caught his eye was the seating area, an expansive space covered in an exquisite carpet that sprawled across the floor, its intricate patterns weaving together rich hues of red, gold, and deep blue. The carpet was so finely woven that it almost seemed to shimmer under the soft light that filtered through the heavy, velvet curtains draped along the walls. The curtains themselves were a deep burgundy, trimmed with gold, adding a sense of opulence and warmth to the room.
The seating area was arranged in a traditional style, with plush cushions and low, embroidered ottomans placed around a low table in the center. The table was laden with a spread of beautifully arranged starters—dishes that showcased an array of vibrant colors and rich aromas, hinting at the feast to come. The room was vast, its high ceiling adorned with an ornate chandelier that cast a soft, golden light, further enhancing the luxurious atmosphere.
As they moved further into the room, Jiro couldn’t contain his excitement, his grin widening as they approached the corner where the seating area turned into a more private space. There, seated on the floor with an air of casual authority, was Luis Tadashima.
Luis’s presence was striking. He stood out with his short, jet-black hair that framed a face with sharp, chiseled features. His light olive skin contrasted with the intense glow of his orange-black eyes—eyes that seemed to burn with an inner fire, yet held a warmth that Haru found surprising. Standing taller than Haru at 179cm, Luis possessed a handsome, slightly unconventional appearance that commanded attention. He exuded a quiet confidence as he sat cross-legged on the floor, his posture relaxed yet poised.
Luis’s attire was as impressive as his presence. He wore light full-body armor that was a masterful blend of dark orange, black, and gold, each color carefully chosen to reflect the power and prestige of the Tadashima household. The armor was adorned with intricate patterns of lions, the emblem of their family, giving the impression that he was both a warrior and a noble. The only part of his body left uncovered was his head, which seemed to further emphasize the striking contrast between his calm demeanor and the formidable warrior beneath.
Beside Luis lay an intricately patterned bow, its dark orange, black, and gold colors matching his armor. The craftsmanship of the bow was extraordinary, every detail designed with precision and care. Alongside the bow was a quiver filled with high-end arrows, each one tipped with sharp, gleaming points. Strapped to his waist was a Wakizashi, the short sword’s hilt crafted with the same care and attention as the rest of his equipment, indicating that he was prepared for both ranged and close combat.
As Haru and Jiro approached, Luis looked up and smiled warmly—a smile that took Haru by surprise. “Welcome,” Luis said cheerfully, his voice carrying a warmth that Haru hadn’t expected. “It’s been a long time, Haru.”
Haru, still somewhat taken aback by the unexpectedly warm greeting, managed a smile in return. “Luis… it’s good to see you.”
Luis gestured for them to sit, his smile broadening as he motioned toward the table laden with starters. “You must be hungry after your journey. We’ve prepared a variety of dishes to start. Please, eat.”
Haru and Jiro moved to sit across from Luis, the myriad of dishes tempting them with their vibrant colors and enticing aromas. Haru could see plates of stuffed grape leaves, rich dips made from roasted eggplants and yogurt, and an assortment of spiced meats and breads, each dish carefully prepared and beautifully presented.
As they settled in, Luis turned his gaze toward Jiro, studying him for a moment before asking, “Is this your servant, Haru?”
Haru quickly shook his head, a slight smile playing on his lips. “No, Luis. This is Jiro. He’s a friend—and a fan of yours, actually.”
Luis’s expression brightened even more, and he chuckled softly. “A fan, huh? Well, the more the merrier. I’m glad to have you here, Jiro. Please, make yourself comfortable.”
Jiro, clearly thrilled to be in the presence of someone he admired so much, nodded eagerly. “Thank you, Luis. It’s an honor to meet you.”
With the introductions out of the way, the three of them settled into their seats, the atmosphere surprisingly light and comfortable given the circumstances. As they began to sample the various dishes, Haru couldn’t help but feel a strange mix of emotions. The warmth in Luis’s demeanor was unexpected, and it left Haru wondering what had changed since they were last together. But for now, he set those thoughts aside, focusing on the food and the conversation, knowing that the more serious discussions would come soon enough.
As they began to enjoy the spread of dishes laid out before them, Luis picked up a piece of spiced meat wrapped in grape leaves and took a thoughtful bite. After savoring the flavor for a moment, he smiled and commented, “The food here in Kalkan is quite different from what we’re used to back home, isn’t it, Haru?”
Haru, who had just tasted a rich eggplant dip, nodded in agreement. “Yeah, it’s definitely different. The spices, the way they prepare the meats… It’s richer, more layered in flavor. Back home, the dishes are usually simpler, but there’s an elegance in that simplicity.”
Luis nodded, his expression pensive. “There’s a certain comfort in the food from home, but I’ve come to appreciate the variety and complexity in Kalkan cuisine. It’s a nice change of pace, though I have to admit, I do miss our staple dishes.”
The conversation felt slightly awkward for Haru, as it was strange discussing something so mundane with his brother after such a long separation. He wasn’t sure what to make of the warm reception Luis had given him, and this small talk about food felt oddly out of place in the grand scheme of everything that had brought them together.
Jiro, eager to be part of the conversation, chimed in with a curious tone. “I’ve never had food from the Zaurelias Empire before. What’s it like? How is it different from what we’re having here?”
Haru glanced at Jiro, appreciating the question as it helped ease the tension he felt. “Well,” he began, trying to find the right words, “the food back home tends to be lighter and more focused on balance. We use a lot of fresh ingredients, and there’s an emphasis on delicate flavors—nothing too overpowering. It’s more about the harmony between the different components of a dish.”
Luis added, “Yes, and we have a lot of dishes based on rice and noodles, paired with fresh vegetables and seafood. The flavors are subtle but distinct, relying on the natural taste of the ingredients rather than heavy spices. We use a lot of broths and light sauces, which are usually made from scratch and take hours to prepare. There’s an art to it, a sort of patience and precision that’s very much a part of our culture.”
Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
Jiro nodded, clearly fascinated. “That sounds amazing. I’d love to try it sometime. I can see how the food here must feel a bit… heavier compared to what you’re used to.”
Haru chuckled softly, appreciating how Jiro’s enthusiasm helped break the ice. “Yeah, you could say that. But it’s good, in its own way. It’s just different.”
Luis smiled, looking between Haru and Jiro. “Every place has its own culinary identity, I suppose. But I think that’s what makes traveling so interesting—you get to experience those differences firsthand. Even something as simple as food can tell you a lot about a place and its people.”
Haru nodded thoughtfully, realizing that Luis was right. In their homeland, food was not just sustenance but an expression of culture and values. And here in Kalkan, the rich, bold flavors seemed to reflect the warmth and generosity of the people who lived here.
Jiro, still eager, asked, “So, do you miss the food from home a lot, Luis?”
Luis shrugged lightly, a small smile on his lips. “Sometimes. But I’ve learned to appreciate what each place has to offer. Besides, no matter where you go, there’s always something to enjoy. I suppose that’s part of adapting—finding the good in wherever you are.”
The conversation flowed a bit more easily after that, with Jiro continuing to ask questions about the food, the differences between cultures, and how Luis had adjusted to life away from the Zaurelias Empire. Haru found himself relaxing slightly, though the underlying tension of their upcoming serious discussions still lingered in the back of his mind.
For now, though, they were just three people sharing a meal and exchanging stories, and Haru couldn’t help but feel a strange sense of comfort in that, even as he prepared himself for the more difficult conversations that lay ahead.
As they continued their meal, Haru decided it was time to steer the conversation towards more serious matters. The waiter had just taken their orders for the main course—Haru choosing a dish featuring tender slices of lamb over crispy flatbread, topped with a rich, tangy tomato sauce and accompanied by a cooling yogurt dip. The meal promised to be hearty and satisfying, a fitting choice after the long journey.
Once their orders were placed, Haru leaned forward slightly, his tone shifting to one of genuine curiosity. “Luis… how have you been since we were separated at nine? We’ve had almost no contact since then.”
Luis paused, clearly taken aback by the directness of the question. He had expected more resentment, perhaps even anger, from Haru. Instead, his brother’s voice was calm, almost conciliatory. “I’ve been… well, I suppose. As well as could be expected. I have to admit, I thought you’d be angrier with me.”
Haru shook his head, his expression reflecting a mix of resignation and understanding. “It wasn’t your fault, Luis. This mess—our separation—it was all Father’s doing. He’s the one I have a problem with, not you.”
Luis sighed, his shoulders relaxing slightly. “That’s a relief to hear. I’ve wondered how you’ve been coping with everything. But I’m more interested in what you’ve been up to. I’ve heard you’ve come a long way.”
Haru leaned back, his eyes flickering with complex emotions. “I’ve done what I needed to survive and grow stronger. But what about you? How has life been as the ‘eldest son’?” Haru added the last part with air quotes, a touch of sarcasm coloring his voice.
Luis chuckled, though there was a hint of weariness behind his eyes. “Ah, yes, the ‘eldest son,’” he echoed with a similar sarcasm. “I’ve been doing what’s expected—trained to the limit, dealing with the kuge, and learning how to manage a region. And now, like you, I’m on my way to the academy. It’s all part of the plan, or so Father says.”
Haru smirked, unable to resist a playful jab. “I figured you’d end up like one of those kuge, but at least you’ve kept your personality intact.”
Luis grinned, appreciating the joke. “Well, I try. So, tell me, what have you been up to? Last I saw you, you were weak, frail… I thought a strong wind might carry you away.”
Haru laughed, genuinely amused by the memory. “Yeah, I wasn’t exactly in top form back then. After Father decided there was no place for me, he sent me off to Bethel, way out in the rural ends of the empire near the United Kingdom of Aurelian, to be forgotten along with Mother.”
Luis raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Bethel? That’s as far from the heart of the empire as you can get. How did you manage to grow so strong out there?”
Haru hesitated for a moment, considering his answer. His strength had come from a deeply personal place—his devotion to the Origin, a faith that wasn’t always well understood or accepted. It carried a certain stigma, and Haru wasn’t sure if he was ready to reveal that part of himself, especially in this setting.
Internally, Haru communicated with Seisaku, the divine presence within his soul. *“I’ll reveal it when the time is right,”* he thought, feeling Seisaku’s silent affirmation, a comforting presence that settled within him. Outwardly, Haru simply smiled and said, “Let’s just say it’s a secret for now. But never count out someone with nothing to lose and all the motivation to change their fate.”
There was an intensity in Haru’s words that caught Luis off guard. Even Jiro, who had been quietly absorbing the conversation, felt the weight of Haru’s resolve. Luis wiped his brow, the surprise clear in his eyes, before he chuckled and replied with his usual charisma, “Some things are more interesting when they remain a mystery.” He took a bite of his food, trying to lighten the mood. “Besides, a little suspense never hurt anyone.”
Haru smiled, appreciating his brother’s ability to shift the atmosphere so effortlessly. He raised his glass slightly, “I’ll drink to that.”
Their main courses arrived soon after, and as they began eating, Luis leaned in with a more sincere tone. “Haru, I know we’ve been through a lot, and we’ve been apart for far too long. But I’d like to think that we can be friends, as well as brothers, now that we’re going to be in the same class at the academy.”
Haru’s expression shifted from surprise to realization. “Wait… you knew we’d be in the same class?”
Luis laughed, finding the situation amusing. “Didn’t you? I guess that’s one of the perks of being part of an official Dynasty—access to information.”
Haru rolled his eyes, though there was no malice in it. “I should have known. So, are you going to give me the rundown on our classmates, or do I have to find out the hard way?”
Luis smiled mischievously. “Oh, I’ll give you the rundown, but all in good time.”
Before they could delve deeper into the subject, Jiro, who had been listening with rapt attention, finally spoke up. “Hey, before you guys get too deep into academy talk… can you tell me about your Arknight abilities? I’ve always been curious about what you guys can do.”
Luis and Haru exchanged glances, both of them smiling with a hint of secrecy. Luis leaned back and shook his head. “Some things are better left as surprises, Jiro. Don’t worry—you’ll see soon enough.”
Haru nodded in agreement, a slight smirk on his face. “Yeah, you’ll find out when the time is right.”
Jiro pouted slightly but nodded, understanding that some secrets were worth the wait.
As their conversation continued, the waiter brought out an array of desserts—sweet pastries dripping with honey and filled with crushed nuts, delicate cakes flavored with rosewater and citrus, and creamy puddings garnished with pistachios and dried fruits. Luis enjoyed a piece of one of the pastries before looking up at Jiro, his expression turning a bit more serious. “Jiro, after dessert, I’m going to need you to step out for a bit. There’s a message from Father that I need to share with Haru… privately.”
Jiro, sensing the gravity of the situation, simply nodded. “Of course. I’ll give you guys some space.”
With that, they continued their meal, the anticipation of what was to come hanging in the air. Haru couldn’t help but wonder what message their father had entrusted Luis with, and whether it would change the course of their reunion. But for now, he pushed those thoughts aside, focusing on the moment, on the delicate flavors of the dessert, and the strange sense of camaraderie that had somehow blossomed between them.
//////////////
After Jiro left the room, closing the door softly behind him, the atmosphere shifted. The air seemed thicker, the silence heavier as Luis leaned back, stretching his nicely defined arms, before reaching into his tunic to pull out a sealed letter. The letter bore the unmistakable crest of their father, and Luis’s expression turned somber as he broke the seal and unfolded the parchment.
Luis glanced at Haru, a flicker of hesitation in his eyes before he began reading aloud. “Haru Tadashima,” he started, his voice steady, though Haru could sense the unease behind it. “I have received word that you have somehow earned a place at the Academy. Though I do not know how you managed this, it changes nothing. You are to return to Bethel immediately.”
Luis paused for a moment, as if gathering his strength to continue. “If you insist on attending the Academy despite my orders, know that I will use all the influence I possess to see you expelled. Should that fail, I will ensure your name is revoked from all family records, and your mother will no longer receive any support from the Tadashima household.”
Haru felt a surge of anger rising within him, the words of his father cutting deep. The letter continued, Luis’s voice tinged with an emotion he rarely showed. “These steps, while regrettable, are necessary. I apologize, but this is the path I must take.”
The room fell silent after Luis finished reading. Haru’s hands clenched into fists, his mind swirling with a mix of rage and frustration. The sheer audacity of his father’s words—the cold dismissal, the threats—made his blood boil. But then, Yohei’s words from his dream echoed in his mind, reminding him of the greater purpose he carried, the spirit of Seisaku within him. He took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down, and after a moment, a smile crept across his face.
Luis noticed the change in Haru’s demeanor, but the unexpected calmness only made him more anxious. He shifted slightly, his hand instinctively resting near his waist, where his Wakizashi was sheathed, ready in case things turned volatile. “Haru,” Luis said carefully, “what are you thinking? Why are you smiling?”
Haru looked at his brother, his gaze steady and composed. “Luis, I have to apologize for something.”
Luis’s apprehension deepened, his muscles tensing. “Apologize? For what?”
Haru’s smile remained, but there was a steeliness in his voice. “I’m apologizing because it’s my destiny to become the head of the Tadashima family, whether our father likes it or not. And for what I’m about to say next.”
Luis blinked, taken aback by the conviction in Haru’s words. His hand tightened around the hilt of his Wakizashi, his mind racing. “Destiny? What are you saying?”
“I’m saying that whatever Father tries to do will be in vain,” Haru continued, his tone unwavering. “I’m not alone, Luis. My master—someone far more powerful than Father—has already ensured that my mother and my education are secure. So, you can tell Father that any decisions he makes to undermine me will ultimately be futile. I will take my rightful place and, when the time is right, I will expose him for what he truly is.”
Haru paused, letting the weight of his words settle in before adding, “But it’s not just about our family. I want to change the way the Zaurelias Empire works, from the ground up. The way things are run—the oppression, the corruption—it has to end. I plan to see to that, no matter what.”
Luis’s mind raced, trying to process the implications of Haru’s words. *Who could this master be?* he wondered, his thoughts swirling with possibilities. It had to be someone with enough influence and power to challenge their father, but who? Despite his internal turmoil, Luis kept his thoughts to himself, masking his surprise with a calm exterior. Instead, he offered Haru a faint smile. “I hope you’re right, Haru.”
Haru was momentarily taken aback by Luis’s response. The tension in the room began to dissolve as Luis leaned back, a more relaxed expression on his face. “You know, Haru… I never wanted to be the first son. I don’t have the same ambitions as Father. I’d be perfectly content with a relatively easy life—enough victories to keep things interesting, a few adventures here and there. But ruling a family, managing all that responsibility? It’s not what I want.”
Haru, still processing his brother’s unexpected honesty, listened as Luis continued. “I’m glad you’re here. Because not only do I not want to be the head, I believe the empire needs to change. The system we live under, the way the Emperor controls everything—it’s all wrong. I’ve seen the way people suffer under the weight of our so-called ‘traditions,’ and I want no part in perpetuating that.”
Haru stared at his brother, astonished. He had expected to find an adversary in Luis, someone groomed to carry on their father’s harsh legacy. Instead, he found an unexpected ally—someone who not only understood the need for change but was willing to support it. “Luis… you’re serious?”
Luis nodded, his smile growing. “I am. I’ll support you, Haru. We need to change the Zaurelias Empire. It’s time for a new era, and I think you’re the one who can lead us there.”
The realization hit Haru like a tidal wave. He had spent years preparing himself to face a brother molded into his father’s image, only to find someone who shared his desire for change. His heart pounded in his chest as he was flooded with memories of their childhood—two brothers playing together, laughing, dreaming of adventures. For a moment, he saw that same brother in front of him, and it filled him with a renewed sense of purpose.
Haru extended his hand, his voice steady as he said, “Then let’s shake on it. Together, we’ll change our family and the empire.”
Luis reached out and took Haru’s hand, shaking it firmly. There was a sense of finality in the gesture, a silent agreement that what they were about to undertake would change their lives forever.
Just then, the door creaked open, and Jiro stepped into the room, tears brimming in his eyes. He had clearly overheard their conversation and was deeply moved. “That was… so touching,” Jiro stammered, bowing deeply. “I’m so sorry for intruding, but I couldn’t help it. The bond between you two… it touched my soul.”
Haru and Luis exchanged glances, and then both chuckled, the tension in the room fully dissipated. Luis patted Jiro on the back. “It’s alright, Jiro. You’ve just witnessed the beginning of something big.”
Jiro straightened up, wiping his eyes, and smiled sheepishly. “I’ll do whatever I can to help too. This is more than just family business now—it’s about changing the world.”
Haru nodded in agreement, feeling a sense of unity and purpose stronger than ever before. For the first time in a long while, he felt that his journey wasn’t one he would walk alone. With his brother by his side and allies like Jiro, the path ahead, though fraught with challenges, seemed more achievable.
The three of them sat back down at the table, the weight of their decisions still hanging in the air, but with a new sense of camaraderie and determination to face whatever the future held.
//////////////
As the three of them stepped out of the tavern, the warm light of the late afternoon bathed the streets of Flanagan in a golden glow. The atmosphere was lively, with people bustling about, but there was a sense of calm between Haru, Luis, and Jiro as they emerged from the cozy, private room where they had just solidified a bond that would shape their futures.
Luis turned to Jiro, who was trailing slightly behind, and with a thoughtful look, he asked, “Jiro, would you be willing to continue in our service?”
Jiro, who had been half-expecting the question, nodded enthusiastically but then hesitated. “Of course, I’d love to! But, uh…” he paused, looking a bit sheepish, “I’d need to let my father know, and I’m not sure I can keep doing it for free anymore…”
Luis smiled warmly, understanding the situation. “That’s fair,” he said, before turning to Haru. “Haru, what do you think? Could we use a personal driver?”
Without missing a beat, Haru grinned and, in sync with his brother’s charisma, replied, “Absolutely. We could use someone reliable to drive us around.”
Jiro’s face lit up with excitement as Luis reached into his cloak and pulled out a small leather pouch. He handed it to Jiro, who opened it curiously. Inside, he found a substantial amount of gold coins—enough to fund ten years of service. Jiro’s eyes widened in disbelief as he looked back at the Tadashima brothers.
“I… I can’t accept this for a single trip!” Jiro stammered, overwhelmed by the generosity.
Haru chuckled, placing a hand on Jiro’s shoulder. “Who said it was for just one trip?”
Luis nodded, his smile widening. “We’re asking you to be our personal assistant and driver throughout our school years. It’s a long-term gig, Jiro. Are you up for it?”
Jiro’s eyes sparkled with happiness, and he could hardly contain himself. “This… this is an incredible opportunity! I’ll get to see so many different types of Arknights, learn from you both, and—” He paused, clearly emotional, before bowing deeply. “The household of Ufir will forever be indebted to you. I, Jiro Ufir, as the eldest son, swear to follow you to the ends of the earth!”
Both Haru and Luis laughed at Jiro’s heartfelt pledge, the camaraderie between the three of them growing stronger with each passing moment.
As the laughter subsided, Luis’s expression became more serious, though the warmth in his eyes remained. “There’s something we need to do before we head to Bulistan. It’s the reason I came to this city first.”
Haru raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “What’s that?”
Luis glanced around the bustling street before answering, “We need to pick up one of our classmates—a boy our age named Aslan Yusiger.”
Haru frowned slightly, puzzled. “Why are we picking him up? Couldn’t he make his own way to the academy?”
Luis shrugged, a hint of amusement in his voice. “Aslan’s known to be a bit shy, and his mother is a very powerful noble here—one of the bey of this region. She’s supposedly quite overprotective of her only son. Father instructed me to get closer to potential assets in the future, and Aslan is one of them.”
Haru’s frown turned into a smirk. “Fair enough. Sounds like a reasonable move.”
Luis leaned in slightly, a playful glint in his eye. “And supposedly, his mother is quite a beautiful woman,” he said, nudging Haru with his elbow.
Haru couldn’t help but grin at his brother’s teasing. For a moment, as he looked at Luis, he saw the boy he had once known—the younger brother he had played with, laughed with, and dreamed with. The years had changed them both, but in this moment, Haru felt the bond of brotherhood stronger than ever.
With a nod, Haru agreed. “Alright then. Let’s go meet our new classmate.”
As they started down the street, with Jiro walking eagerly beside them, Haru couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation for what lay ahead. The city of Flanagan, the academy in Bulistan, their plans for the future—it was all coming together. And with Luis by his side, Haru felt ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.
And so, with a shared purpose and newfound camaraderie, the Tadashima brothers set out to begin the next chapter of their journey, united in their mission to change not just their family, but the very foundation of the world itself.