~THE KNIGHT~

The town was bustling with life on both land and sea. Despite being set closed to the sea and directly underneath a cliffside, the people were thriving. The ocean was as blue as the brilliant sky, the harbor was filled with a variety of boats, much of them with fisherman busy selling and sorting more than dozens of fish.

Navigating through the town's fishing harbor in a long white cloak was Percy. Two children run past him, laughing as they ran from a little boy, who accidentally bumps into him. Before he could fall, Percy grabs the child by the arm. Gasping, upon regaining his footing, he was about to thank the older boy but is stunned by what he was seeing, Spilling out from under his hood, long locks of blue hung over some of his pale features.

It was nothing like the boy had ever seen before. Smiling, Percy bends to his level and pats the top of the boy's head. "Be mindful of where you're going while running."

The child was left speechless as the teen straightens his posture and continues on his current path. He watches as the white-cladded boy blend seamlessly into the upcoming crowd. Tugging at his hood, Percy stops in his tracks when he feels a familiar warmth radiating from his earring. Briefly looking around to see if he was being watched, Percy immediately steps into the nearest alleyway and hides behind a convenient stack of wooden crates.

Although narrow - and a tad too cramped for anyone's comfort - there was more than enough space for him to move in and about. Also, it provided him a decent vantage point for him to easily look out and listen for any potential eavesdroppers. The last thing he wants is to have someone accidentally getting caught up in his business, Human curiosity is both a blessing and a curse; mostly a curse. Percy waits until he is certain that no one shall enter alleyway before doing anything else.

Once in the clear, he touches the hanging crystal gem of his earring.

"Is something the matter, Rei?" Percy smirks when he hears the panicked voice of his girlfriend.

"H-How did you know it was me?"

He softly chuckles and spoke with a fond smile. "You're the only one that would go against protocol. Plus, you know that I won't report this even if you planned to tell me."

"I see..." she quietly mumbles. Rei coughs then quickly answers, "I was just worried, okay? It's your first solo mission and-" She catches herself and pauses when she felt she was about to raise her voice. "I'm just worried, okay? You've never been to another world without any of us with you. I should have convinced that stupid oversized iguana to have someone accompany you."

"I'll be fine, Rei." He takes a peek at both ends of the alleyway. "Look, as much as I love talking with you, Cariad, I need to get back to the task at hand."

"Alright... Be careful out there."

"Rwy'n dy garu di," said Percy, smiling.

"Um... Right back at you?" Rei answers, unsure how to properly respond.

Holding backs his laughter, Percy cunningly tells her, "I'll tell you when I get back, Cariad. In bed of course."

He turns off his Holos by letting go of the crystal before he could hear her response. He felt that if he talked to her any longer, Percy would lose track of time and forget about the mission altogether. Checking one last time to see if there were any approaching passerby's, he steps out of his hiding spot and re-enters the busy crowd. Percy tugs as his hood once more, making sure to conceal as much of his hair as possible.

It wasn't due to the unnatural color. Far from it. If he wants to follow a specific rule about worldfaring by the letter, no one can see his hair. The last thing he wants is to draw attention to himself by the higher being who governs this world. Xavier's recent little escapade in a certain world had left the organization no choice but to make Ulric's report void. The reason was simple; over exposure. Then again, after learning from Xavier that the children were basically guilted into working in such conditions, it was no wonder he acted the way he did.

Still, Percy wished that his friend had kept his sadistic nature in check. From what Ulric had told him, Xavier did not hold his punches. While understandable, he still wished the mentally older boy had kept his temper in check.

Just as he was about to enter a nearby shop to start searching for information, he felt someone bump into him. Percy was about to apologize but, at the last second, he caught sight of a small hand quickly reaching into his cloak.

Realizing this, he was about to move so that the person is unable to take anything, but stops when he also realizes that person is a child. Rather than doing anything, he pretends not to notice as the kid skillfully detaches the scabbard from his belt. He froze a few steps from the shop as the child dashes off. Sighing, Percy places a hand on his hip and turns to the direction they most likely ran off too.

"So much for not getting Inworlders involved..." he mutters to himself before giving chase.

----------------------------------------

Clutching the scabbard close to their chest as their thin arms are able, the child seamlessly runs through the crowd. Those that made direct eye contact with them averted their attention elsewhere, preferring to turn a blind eye. Ignoring the pain on the soles of their bare feet, the child bites through the aggravating sensations until they take a sharp turn around a corner out of the marketplace. They skid their feet across the floor then hid near the side of a building.

Panting, they sit beside a barrel filled with fish, tucking their legs in to completely hide from sight. Taking a peek over to see if they followed, the child grimaces when a fish falls on his head. Cringing at the unpleasant, foul stench, he sets the sword aside to remove the small dead carcass before it's blood could drench their head. The child stares directly at it's eye, which reminded him of a pearl that's lost its polish. Just as they were about to discard it, they hear a small meow.

Weakly walking up to them, a small grey kitten stares up at them with big copper eyes. It meows once more, but struggles in doing so. Glancing at the fish in their hand, they gently toss it it to the kitten, who practically springs to life once it lands in front of its feet. Rather than running off, it tries to drag it back to them. Since it was small and frail, it struggled to move.

Once at their side, it places it over their hand. Confused, the child grabs the fish then, as carefully as possible, the kitten. For unknown reasons to them, it begins to purr when in front of their face.

"What's wrong with you...?" the child mutters.

They were about to set the kitten back down until a strange bluish glow struck the corner of their eyes. Looking down at the weapon, they noticed there was a small crack between the hilt and the scabbard, partially revealing just a smidgen of the blade. Placing the kitten and the fish on their lap, they reach over for the blade.

When the child wrapped their fingers around the hilt, they took a moment to feel the smooth surface of the chestnut leather. It had been so long since they found such a well-cared for weapon. The quality doesn't matter; what truly matters was the silent history behind it. Just as they were about unsheathe the weapon from it's scabbard, a large boot slams on top of the body, pinning it and their hand to the floor.

"You know..." A deep voice spoke above the child's head. "You shouldn't be stealing such high quality material, Jean. A young boy like you shouldn't be trying to wield something your noodle arms are incapable of carrying."

Lamar wasn't ugly, but he also wasn't most handsome young man in the country. Far from it. In the boy's eyes, he was not even close to average like his two lackey's. However, due to his status as a noble, the olive skin of his long face was free of pores and scars. And, unlike Jean, his pale blonde hair was properly maintained. Although above his shoulders, his glossy hair basically outshined his own face. If anything that was the only thing that was pleasing to the eyes.

The material of the teenage boy's clothes appeared as if it was made of various table cloth that was stitched together to appear as clothing. Behind the pale blonde were two other men, who laughed at the boy's expense. The older teen grabs the child's hat, revealing a bed of curly dark brown hair. Initially attempting to fight back, they stopped when they heard a weak cry from underneath them.

Though hesitant, the child curls into a ball in an attempt to hide and shield the kitten. Mistaking this act as Jean submitting, Lamar removes his foot from the sword and slams it on top of the brunette's head.

"You're not going to be a knight. The new King already established that only those of noble blood can." Lamar leans forwards, digging his foot against the smaller boy's head. "A farmer's child isn't on the list of important families. A nobody like you can never make a name for themselves"

"I disagree," a voice cuts in. All four were startled at Percy's sudden presence; who was casually leaning against the same barrel the boy had previously hid behind. "Most warriors do not have to be of noble blood to hold a weapon." Stepping away from his previous spot, he adjusts the gauntlet on his right arm as he faces the trio. Percy continues, "While it is indeed true that some legends come from such families, most are from more humble beginnings."

When he takes a step forward, Lamar stumbles back, trips over nothing and falls on his own back. Now freed, the child take the sword in one hand and the kitten in the other before standing up.

"An outsider like you shouldn't be meddling," Lamar growls, prompting Percy to laugh.

"Oh, I'm no outsider." Percy takes several step forward. As he does so, the kid watches as he draws out his other sword from his right hip. "I'm what you call a Traveler."

Percy completely unsheathes a silver sabre. The kid was in awe as the metal of the slightly curved blade beautifully glistens under the morning sun's light. The hand guard of the hilt had a design that resembled the vines on the side of their family home. All three gasp as Percy slightly tilts the blade forward, purposely aiming for the top of Lamar's head.

His lips curl into an eerily calm smile. "Whether or not you know what that means, I advise you to walk away. I'm certain no one would want to hear rumors of a noble's son accepting a duel while borrowing an opponent's weapon."

As Percy continued to smile, Lamar could sense some malice behind it.

"Now, would you like to help me start those rumors? Or..." His seemingly friendly disposition turns cold. "Would like to leave without tearing the clothes your mother had personally ordered for you?" Percy challenged.

Trembling under his gazw, Lamar clenches his teeth and balls his fists into a tight fist. While he was confident in his ability to take him on one on one; he was correct about one thing, borrowing a weapon from an opponent is considered dishonorable in their country. Although he was reluctant to leave things as is, he had no choice but to withdraw.

Seeing the change in his expression, Percy lowers his sword and slid it back into its scabbard. There was a tense silence between the two boys. Jean swore that not even the sound of a gold coin would grab their attention.

"Let's go," Lamar said to his three silent friends. He glares at Percy and Jean one last time before turning to leave. "It's not worth it."

As they watch their retreating backs, Jean's jaw hug in disbelief. Relieved that he was able to avoid an altercation, he smiles down at Jean, who was staring up at him. They've never seen anyone talk like that to Lamar before; especially after learning of his status as a noble's son.

"Wyt ti'n iawn?" Percy smiles at the boy, who cocked a brow, confused at hearing a foreign language. "Oh, sorry," he coughs, partially changing his accent. "Whenever I'm upset, I tend to speak my mother tongue. Are you alright?"

"Y-Yeah... Are you really a traveler?" Jean slowly asks.

"Yes, but not the kind that you're thinking of," he said cryptically. Percy extends a hand to Jean. "Now, may I please have my sword back?"

Still skeptical on his identity, Jean slowly hands it to Percy. "I don't see why you need this one. You already have a fine weapon."

Percy eyes Jean for a moment. Just earlier, before he decided it was time to intervene, he had noticed a slight change in Jean's voice while he was talking to Lamar. He doesn't know if he heard right, but it almost sounded as if the boy was trying to make their voice deeper.

He doesn't want to make assumptions just yet. Many children around Jean's age begin to feel self conscious about themselves, usually related to their appearance or the sound of their premature voice. Mostly their voice. But still, there was something about Jean that bothered him, he just couldn't figure out what that was.

However, he knew it was not his place.

"Are you going to report me to the Sûreté...?" Jean quietly asks.

"Sûreté...? OH! No, I won't," Percy said, nervously laughing. He was surprised that his holos hadn't translated that one term. Had he not picked up on what Jean was talking about, he'd question what that meant, leading to questions about Percy's place of origin.

"Good..." Jean lets out a relieved breathe. "The last thing I want is to get reported again for taking someone else's weapon."

'Again?' Percy repeats in his thoughts. While that does explain why Jean was able to swiftly take his sword and it's scabbard with ease.

While it wasn't the first for it to be stolen, it was a first to see a thief not to just pull it out and run off with it. As pleasant of a challenge it was in finding Jean without hearing whispers of some moron running around with a sword, Percy can't help but wonder the reasons. However, even with his current mission, unless he has no other choice, he knows better than to get involved in the affairs of others. And that includes children.

"Well then." He turns and prepares to leave. Percy casually waved at Jean as he says his farewells, "This is where we part ways. I wish you well."

"WAIT!" Jean suddenly runs around him and stands in front of Percy. Jean spoke in a shrill voice, "You can't go yet! I need your sword!"

"Pardon..?'"

"Please!" Jean desperately pleads. Percy froze upon seeing the first tear drops fall from their emerald eyes. "I need your sword! I need it to save my country!"

----------------------------------------

Carrying Jean on his back and carefully holding the kitten in his arm, Percy wondered around the town in search for their home. While he was at it, he gathered as much information as he possibly could relating to his mission. Although there wasn't much to gather on, it provide him some understanding on the inner workings of the town. This world, like several others, is like a copy of his own, except the geology is vastly different and history has been mixed around.

Had Xavier accompanied him as originally planed, Percy was certain he'd say, "Creation was a competition for the gods. They just forgot whose was the one who originally thought it up since so many decided to copy from the other." However, despite that, at least it made interacting and blending in with Inworlders manageable. Sadly, most of his gathered intel consisted of rumors, and that's the last thing he wants to follow up on.

After wandering past several cobblestone homes, Percy had to stop at a nearby shop to rest. It's not that he can't carry Jean or a frail kitten; he just wanted to rest his legs since he had been walking for a substantial amount of time before the child stole his property. Percy didn't even have the chance to respond to the child's earlier plea before passing out. Based on their physical appearance, it's no wonder they had.

Adults have learned to deal with stress. A child cannot, their bodies react negatively to any form of self-inflicted stress. And for Jean, this was their body's way of attempting to cope.

After witnessing how an offspring of a noble treats the people they are to govern, Percy ultimately decided to escort Jean home rather than leaving them in the hands of strangers. Peaceful or not, it's dangerous to leave a child by themselves. While the chances of being mixed up in the world's affairs have increased due to this decision, he would rather be punished for his interference rather than leaving an innocent to fend for themselves.

Corrupt authorities are present no matter what type of government was established. Only gods knows why such things are shared between various separate worlds. Stepping into the shop, Percy sets Jean down on a nearby stool and leans his back and elbows against the counter to relax. As for the kitten, he just carefully slips the little creature into Jean's bag.

"Welcome~" a velvety voice greets Percy from behind.

Percy spun around and was prepared to apologize for rudely leaning against her shop's furniture. His mouth slams shut when he finds a striking beautiful young woman leaning against the counter, flashing him a very provocative smile. Her sandy brown skin was covered with very loose and very vibrant clothes, which was a far cry from the simplistic classic attire of the people of this world. She had a yellow scarf acting as a headband for her long brown hair.

"My name is Katarina," she said, extending a jewelry covered hand. She spoke in a very distinct accent.

While the holos does translate every language into the standard english language, they tend to miss a few words and leave certain accents unchanged. And in this case, it was the Roma woman's. Or, he assumes that's who she is. This world is so similar to his own that he isn't sure how to properly address the individual races.

"Perseus Vlahos," he returns, shaking her hand. "But you may call me Percy for short."

"Perseus..." she slowly repeats. "Your father, did he go by the name Rayner?"

Percy meekly smiles and shook his head. "No, that's the name of my grandfather."

"Oh!" Katarina gasps. She leans closer to get a better look at him, prompting him to instinctively tug at his hood. "How old did you say you were?"

"I didn't," he frowns, uncomfortable with the closeness. "Look, I simply want information on this young boy's home."

"You could have just left him," she said nonchalantly, shrugging.

Percy crosses his arms and flatly responds, "That is completely out of the question and morally inappropriate to say. No one should be left alone." He pinches the bridge of his nose. "Look, all I want is to know where he lives so I can bring him home and go about my business."

"Okay, I'll tell you." One corner of her red tinted lips lifts up to curl into a sly smirk. "But you must buy something. Us Amor's find it difficult to do business in a country that's not our own." She shrugs again, "You know how this works."

Stunned, Percy couldn't help but laugh at the irony of their conversation. Although of a different world, and Xavier told him the supposed truth about their creation, the similarities were so jarring that he was uncertain whether he truly was no longer in his original world. And like all merchants, their word can only be bought.

"Then, what do you offer?" Percy asks.

The woman smiles and gestures to her shop's assortments. "I suggest you be the one to decide. But remember, whatever you pick shall decide how much I'll tell you."

Easier said than done. Although it was a small shop, most of the shelves and display cases were filled an substantial amount of hand-made accessories made entirely of pearl. Given where the town was built next to the sea, it came to no surprise that Katarina's choice in the selling such products. Pearls aren't exactly rare, but if you're creative enough in your craft, it should catch the eye of various passerbys. More specificall - women.

Since he's here, he can at least look for something for Rei. While he knows she's not particularly a fan of accessories of any sort, especially since she fears she may break them, it doesn't stop him from finding her presents. Words alone are no longer enough to show how much he appreciates Rei.

Left to his own devices, Percy browsed the nearest shelves as Katarina takes out a book and start computing. With business being slow, she had to start planning out on the usage of the remaining funds she has left. Habitually biting the end of her thumb's nail, she fought the urge to click her teeth. Her business should have been booming by now.

Before setting up shop, she carefully took notice of the locals and the businesses. Aside from fish, which she had no longer stomach after months of eating only that specific type of protein, there was hardly anything else being sold that wasn't food related. Pearls were her only option since it was one of the very few resources that, although abundant, appeared hardly noticed by the locals. For many shop owners, it's nearly impossible to produce other colors of pearls aside from white.

That is if you don't know the tricks in selecting and handling oysters. During this time, Jean had awoken from their sleep. Confused at first odd sensation of glass pressing against their face, Jean sits up and looks around their surroundings. The last thing Jean remembers was begging to someone's sword, who they originally stole from.

"My my~" a voice purrs. Jean's head snaps in Katarina's direction. She smiles and shuts her log book. "Look who's awake. I was starting to think that young man over there was carrying around dead weight." Katarina gestures to the older boy, who was still in the middle of browsing. "I don't know how long he's been carrying you, but you must have been worth the trouble."

"Trouble?" Jean repeats.

"Someone with that sort of attires means two things." She holds up two fingers. "One, he's a mere traveler expanding his horizons. Or two, he's searching for something or someone. And most of the time, it's always the second reason. To bring you around is pretty risky."

"Why do you think he has to search?"

This piqued Katarina's interests.

Jean reaches from something underneath their white shirt and pulls out a rosary. "I always believed that God will be bring that person back to you. You just need a little faith."

Percy hadn't realized he had taken so much time in browsing until he heard their voices. Lucky for him, he was still behind one of a nearby shelf while they were conversing; and once again, he notices something off about Jean's voice. Compared to when they were talking face to face, Jean's voice sounded naturally high pitched.

While he wasn't one to pay much attention to a certain person's appearance; such as their facial features, he had noticed another thing about Jean. Unless Jean was just naturally born like that, but their face appeared almost too delicate to belong to a young boy. However, as he told himself earlier, it's best not to assume just yet.

"You need more than fate, sweetie." Katarina touches and sadly stares at the plain golden band around her finger. "Sometimes, no matter how hard you pray, God is unable to hear the cries of those that calls for him."

Leaning against the shelf, Percy rests his head against the wood and closes his eyes. If he were to tell them the truth, either they cry out blasphemy or question how he knows such things. While he feels they'd deserve to know the truth, he also knew it was not his place. Opening his eyes, he steps around the shelf he was concealing himself with and approaches the counter.

"I believe I have found the perfect item," he said cooly.

"But you can clearly this child's awake," Katarina said. "Surely, you no longer need my services."

Percy smiles at her honesty. "True, but I am a man of my word." He places down a feather-shaped, which was entirely made of apricot freshwater pearl. "Besides, I doubt this young fellow will share the location of their household to a stranger."

"But you're going to trust the word of another stranger," she challenged.

"From what I've learned, strangers who offer their services through payment are far more trusting than mere gossipers. I've already talked to several before my arrival, but none of them match up. It was an indeed an eye opener but only scratched the surface of what I truly needed to know."

Jean crossed their arms and frowned. The two were talking as if they weren't there, and it was deeply annoying them at how easily they were being ignored.

"Well, since you point it out that way..." She takes the hair clip and prepares to place it in one of her personally designed wooden boxes. Katarina looks directly at Jean as she told Percy, "I'll tell all you what I know, starting with Sleeping Beauty."

With their cheeks flushed, Jean bows their head and stares down at their lap, refusing to look anyone in the eye. Katarina smirks at Jean's reaction before turning back to Percy, who had also took notice of Jean's reaction. It was subtle but it was more than enough to answer Percy's initial suspicions.

"So, what would you like to know?" she asks.

"Before we discuss about the location of Jean's home," Percy paused to take something underneath his cloak. Making sure that Jean was unable to see, he slides it towards Katarina. "There's someone I'm looking for. I was hoping a merchant who has been frequented by many travelers, you'd be able to help."

Katarina winks at Jean before sliding the parchment closer for further inspection. As she was scanning the contents, Jean was in awe. Just like she had predicted earlier, Percy was indeed searching for someone. Now that they know this, they wonder whether they should leave or not. Getting ropped up of someone else's business is the last thing they want. Then again, they did try to steal Percy's sword.

As they continue their conversation, Jean suddenly found themselves in a trance. Fixated on the sword, Jean slowly reaches for it. There was a strange voice calling their name; whispering things of promises, begging to help find their master in exchange for knowledge. Jean had not realized what was going on until Percy grabbed his wrist.

Blinking, Jean shook their head then quietly gasps when they found their hand around the hilt of his sword. Jean hadn't been able to entirely pull it out, but they were able to expose at least a small ounce of the blade. Jean didn't know if they were seeing things, but for a split seond, the kid though they saw something blue. In fact, it almost appeared - transparent? Jean quietly slides the sword back in and tries to pretend they hadn't seen anything.

But she couldn't; she couldn't stop thinking about the sword no matter how hard they tried. All Jean can do for no is keep their hands to themselves and focus on something else until the two were finished. If not, they're certain they'll try to reach and unsheathe more of the blade to satiate their curiousity.

"I don't know what to tell you," she answers, sliding the parchment back to Percy. "Despite how well drawn it is, I'm sorry to tell you but I haven't seen this person."

"Hehe, I'll be sure to tell my friend of your compliment to his drawing," said Percy. Although disappointed to have found himself at another dead end, this didn't discourage him from continuing his search. He then tells Katarina, "Could you then point me in the right direction. I'm sure Jean's parents are awfully worried."

"Of course," Katarina said with a small smile. "Judging from their pendant, I'd say this little one is from the d'Arc family. They reside in a nearby village of Domrémy. It's not far so you should be able to make it there by foot."

"Wait, don't I have a say in this?" Jean raised their voice as they begin to panic.

"That depends," Percy said, turning to completely face Jean. Jean had faced many teens and adults, but never one that utilized their height in such an intimidating manner like Percy. "A troublemaker such as yourself would lie about what they had been doing for most of the day."

Jean couldn't find the proper words to argue. They hate to admit it, but Percy wasn't wrong. Any kid their age would avoid telling their parents the trouble they've been causing, especially stealing. The last thing they want is for their dad to find out that they had been going around the market to try and steal any weapon within their line of sight. Their dad's livelihood - including the entire family - would be effected if word got out.

Sellers and locals knew Jean was a thief, hence why no one bothered to stop them and went about their busines. However, if word were to get out that a thief of a local seller got out, their dad would face the consequences of their actions. So rather than doing anything, Jean bowed their head once more and kept quiet.

"Anyway-" Percy turns his attention back to Katarina. "Thank you for your services. If my companions decide to visit the countryside, I'll be sure to recommend your shop to them."

"It was my pleasure~" she purrs.

Percy takes the box and turns to leave. Sliding off their seat, Jean was about to follow after him until Katarina spoke up.

"Oh right! I forgot to mention, a couple of soldiers came by." Jean froze. Katarina contrinues as she stares at the fellow brunette's head, "You might want to reconsider your appearance. Once might think that you're purposely trying to get into the army."

Percy looks down at Jean quizzically as a slight tinge of pink crosses their swarthy cheeks. Rather than saying anything, Jean walks past the taller boy and steps out of the shop. Sighing, Percy bows his head before walking after the kid as Katarina waves the pair farewell. Once the door was shut, the corners of her lips drops.

"You may come out now," said Katarina, the tone of her voice losing its earlier friendliness. "I hope it was worth threatening me at swordpoint to have me lie to such a well-educated young man."

Stepping from behind the portière, a tall hooded boy. To further conceal his identity, he wore a silver knight's helm with a black visor. Wordlessly, he walks past the woman and moves around the counter. Rolling her eyes, Katarina, no longer caring if the stranger used his weapon on her, briefly raised a middle finger at him.

There was much she can tolerate, but threatening her life? He was lucky she hadn't tried to send Percy several hints that someone was listening in on their conversation. In fact, she was half-surprised the stranger didn't attend to ambush and take their lives as soon as they were finished. While she was truthful in all of the answers she could give, Katarina did have her suspicions after being presented the drawing. Despite sensing the gesture, the person simply frowns underneath his helm and takes his leave.

For the first time, the Amor woman was relieved to have visitors leave her shop. She can only hope Percy is able to escort Jean all the way back home before their fated altercation. Whoever that young man was, Katarina knew he was after something, just like Percy. Except in this case; he intends to take what he's searching for by force.

----------------------------------------

"Let go of me!"

"I would love to but..." Percy purposely trails off as he adjusts his hold on Jean, who was slung over his shoulder. "After punching me in the balls several times whenever you attempt to escape, I think it's safer this way."

Jean grumbles something incoherent, though Percy can only guess they were either complaints or insults - aimed directly at him - that he's most likely been called in the past. Once more, Percy noticed one last thing that was off about the kid. Their body was lighter, which was expected since Jean is still young, but he's been forced to carry children back in Avarus for quiet some time. Jean almost felt as light as Dia; one of the children that's recently been placed under his supervision.

He was unable to catch what Katarina had said to Jean before they left, but it did leave them flustered for quite some time. All that's left now is to get Jean to indirectly admit their deception. While he doesn't want to delve further into Jean's business than he already has; if this is to help him stop mentally referring Jean as 'them', then so be it.

"So," he casually began. "Your family owns a farm. I didn't think this side of the country focused on such agriculture."

"Let me guess, it's the fish, huh?" Jean smirks as Percy began to laugh. "Sure, it's not something I'd like to eat on a daily basis, but at least the view is great at the harbor."

Percy utters with a small smile. "Ie, it's been a long time since I've seen such blue waters. My girlfriend would have loved to be here."

"Woah!" Percy almost lost his balance when Jean lifted themselves up to look directly at the back of his hood. "You're in a relationship? With a GIRL!?"

"Ie- I mean, yes, I am." He paused then answered, frowning, "You thought I was sexually attracted to the same sex. I didn't think I gave you that impression.""

"That Amor lady was definitely flirting with you. There's no way you could have been focused on her eyes for that long! Unless you were blind, there's no way you didn't notice her breast."

Percy rolls his eyes. "It's called human decency. If I wanted to stare at a woman's bosom, I would have gone elsewhere."

Feeling tired from carrying Jean for so long, he sets them down so they can walk on their own. There wasn't any reason for Jean to attempt another escape. Even if they do, Percy now knows Jean's family name; that's all it'll take for him to locate them, and then he'll tell Jean's father everything that had transpired in the market. And that includes the sword snatching.

They continued walking down the grey brick path until they were out of the fishing town and out on the dirt road. There were still some people, but they too were leaving for home. It was starting to get late so it was no surprise to see so many leaving at the same time. Although, now that he's dwelled a little further to another side of the region, Percy has a better understanding of the world he was sent to.

While the economy does focus on fishing, the people themselves cannot live by the seaside for long if they are not in the business. While it is understandable for farmers, such as Jean's family, to live elsewhere, to see more than a dozen leave makes one wonder just how expansive the country is. From Percy's experience, to have multiple villages still connected and reliant on one another is a difficult system to manage if you don't play your cards right.

What concerns Percy is the lack of security.

'Such resources should be thoroughly guarded. I wonder what the reason is,' he pondered in his thoughts. 'To not have at least not a single guard and set up a checkpoint is very concerning.'

Now Percy wonders if his search is as simple as Gabriel made it out to be during the briefing. Before he left, Percy was assured that there is little to no conflict in the world he'll be venturing to. In fact, it was confirmed to be pre-worldfaring, meaning no Traveler has left or set foot in this world.

Until now. He just hopes that he can find and bring the person he's searching for without garnering any unwanted attention. The lack of awareness in this world is very fragile. One wrong move, after he leaves, there will be an uproar amongst the residences; questions that should never have been made will circulate. And there will be chaos.

"May I ask you something?" Percy asked, earning a hum from Jean. "Your wor- village, has anything suspicious been going on?"

Jean hums thoughtfully then answers, "You mean how fishing boats are no longer allowed to go out to sea recently? That's pretty much it."

"I see... has it been an easy transition?"

Jean stops in their tracks and glares down at the ground. "No... A lot of shops have been forced to raise the prices ever since our country's king made the decree. My family's fine since they're farmers, but sooner or later, that is what will drive us away and force us to retreat to the mainland."

Judging from the subtle reluctance in Jean's tone, Percy could tell the mainland wasn't an ideal location at the moment. Especially for farmers. This new piece of information was starting to make him wonder what type of ruler resides in this world.

Their patron god or goddess clearly isn't the one in control or influencing the inner-workings of this world. If they were; there would be evidence littered all over the village, and he's not just talking about the odd absence of whatever symbol represents their religion. Aside from the cross pendant on Jean's necklace, there has been no mention of their patron god, especially by their actual name.

In fact, he was stunned at the lack of devoted followers proclaiming their beliefs to in the streets while he was wandering. It was a nice change but, nonetheless, was still concerning.

"In regards to your religion, what type of god governs your people?"

"Governs?" Jean repeats, confused. "I don't know about that, but our local priest once told us that the word of God is delivered directly through King Charles. His word is absolute as they are the words of God. But..." Trailing off, a flicker of uncertainty appear in their green eyes. "I'm honestly not sure if most of the things he says is what God wants."

"I see..." Percy quietly responds. He knows better than interfere in a world's affairs, but the more he learns, the harder it is to focus on his current mission.

"What about you?" Jean asks, changing the subject. "You're obviously not from around here. No one in their right mind walks around with swords unless they're asking for trouble."

Percy laughs and nervously scratches his cheek. "You do have a point." He averts his eyes up to the vast blue sky as they continue walking. "Like I told Miss Katarina, I was sent to look for someone."

"Is he someone you know?"

"Yes..." A flicker of sadness appears in his golden eyes. "He's been on a journey for quite some time. After all the mess he's made over the years, we just couldn't ignore it any longer. I tried, but when it comes down to it, there's no way I could, not after what he did before he disappeared."

"Why does he travel so much?"

"I think... It has to do with the dissatisfaction he's had to experience for most of his life," Percy melancholy answers. Jean tilts their head in confusion. He explains, "He was someone that had become bored, especially at the prospect living. Having learned how to easily expect the unexpected, he became dissatisfied with almost everything. Very few piqued his interests. The ones that do easily lose its meaning to him once he had them figured out."

"I don't get it." Jean runs up to the closest stone fence and jumps on top of it. They balance themselves as they comment, "This person just sounds like they're trying to make up excuses to get into trouble."

Percy almost wanted to laugh and comment how similar Jean's comment was to Rei's. That doesn't mean that they're wrong. While he himself hadn't know him for long, his friend was quite a handful, something he figured out the moment they met. They continued to talk more of Percy's long lost companion as they walk down the straight path towards Jean's home. He knew information like this was too sensitive to share with an In-Worlder, but he did consider the age.

Childhood amnesia is both a blessing and a curse. The sky was getting darker. At that point in time, they had passed several homes, some of them with farm fields of their own. The homes were so spaced out; Percy began to wonder if how hard he had to walk to escort Jean back home. His legs weren't particularly times, though he can only guess that due to his body having experienced far longer journeys.

Eventually, the long dirt road led directly to a home sat onto of a small hill. It was a small home surrounded by some trees. The roofstop was sloped to the left, various vines grew on the outside corners of the home, which also grew sort of crystal-like flower. Before he could further take in the appearance of Jean's home, the wooden door opens. Panicking, Jean stops and jumps behind Percy's back before being seen by whoever stepped out.

At first, their face was obscured by the light of their oil lantern, making it difficult for Percy to make out who it was that stepped out. All he could make out were the tattered clothing's of a farmer. There were several rough patchworks on the fabric, but that alone showed how hard working he was as a farmer. Upon lowering it, Percy saw the face of a tired middle-aged man.

His swarthy complexion matched Jean's. Although his hair was far darker than their's, almost appearing black even with the little light provided by the oil lantern..

"Who's out there!?" the man hollers.

Uncertain if he should raise his voice, Percy answers, "An escort, sir. The sun was beginning to set, so I decided to make sure someone got home safely before I went my way."

Hearing this, Jean was about to run until they felt the back of their shirt being grabbed and the ground under their feet suddenly disappearing. Rather than continuing their attempts at escaping, they remain limp as Percy effortlessly lifts them up and places them in front of the older boy. What was the point?

Jean knew they were going to face their father sooner or later. Straining his eyes, to see the small child, as if his earlier fatigue was non-existent, gasped upon recognizing them. "JEANNE!"

"Uh oh...." she mutters, no longer trying to hide her true voice.

While Percy did have his suspicions, he was surprised how different her voice is. Stepping out, Jeanne bows her head, pursing her lips as she felt the angry gaze of her father. Red in the face, he marches down the hill with a terrifying glare etched in his sunken eyes. Jeanne body automatically jerks back, but she is forced to remain in place when he reaches over to grab her by the ear.

"OW! Papa! Stop, that hurts!"

"This is the nth time! How many times do I have to tell you? You can only be escorted home by a man when you're taller than me!" Percy turned his head away and tries not to laugh while Jeanne's ears turn red."And YOU!" He jolts when the man directs his angered tone to the boy.

He doesn't know whether the man was upset with Percy because he had laughed at his daughter's plight or acted as her escort. What he does know is, despite being taller than Jean's father, his position as family head was unquestionable just from his intense gaze. Percy did not know how to appropriately react to such eyes.

After being around teenagers that acted like children and adults acting like teenagers for so long, Percy had some difficulty conversing with those that acted as their proper age. Worried he may end up being the receiving end of his anger, Percy was prepared to apologize until the man clamps both hands on his shoulders.

"Merci bien!" Percy had to fight back a frown when his holos, once again, failed to translate what the man said. The man continues, "My name is Jacques d'Arc. Thank you so much for not being a predator!"

"Um... It's a pleasure?" Percy said, uncertain how to respond.

When Jacques turn his attention back to his daughter, who thought she was in the clear and allowed herself to relax, Pecy reaches for his holos and fiddles with it between his fingers. They're fairly new, but he was hoping Beatrix has fixed the kinks by now. He was lucky that it already clicked what Jeanne's father had initially said. If not, Percy would have been forced to ask what he had meant earlier.

The purpose of the holos isn't just for communication, but for Nors of Percy's generation to use as a translator since he never had one implanted in him at birth. While this was the first slip up, Percy hopes this will be the only time for it to occur. The last thing he wants is to be unable to understand an important conversation. Better yet, have the holos mistranslate Percy's own dialogue. It has happened before, but that was back in Avarus.

"Come inside! I'm sure you're tired from having to keep an eye on this little tomboy," said Jacques, ruffling the top of Jeanne's head.

"N-No! I musn't intrude," said Percy as he raises his hands and shook his head. "Besides, I need to be on my way. There's only so little time before I am to return to my homeland." He bows his head to Jacques and smiles down at Jeanne. "Have a good night you two."

Just as he turned around, Percy was greeted with a rapier pointed between his eyes. Before Jeanne could see what was happening, she was immediately pulled by the arm and was forced to stand behind her father. While his face remains neutral as he stares directly into the eyes of the wielder, Percy remains silent as his arm begins to slowly rise towards the side of his hip.

Staring back with a smug expression, Lamar lifts his chin up and holds his blade closer to Percy's face.

"I believe we have a score to settle," said Lamar, his smirk never leaving. "What was it you said earlier?" Unbeknownst to him, Percy had already reached for his broadsword. "Oh, that's right. It would be improper for a noble's son to borrow their opponent's weapon."

As this was going on, Jacques begins to slowly back away. Jeanne tries to take a peak at what's happening, but her father made sure to block as much as possible with his arms. Lamar saw this and questions, "So, since it's now officially just the two of us, are you going to accept my challenge?"

Percy sighs. "My grandfather taught me a lot of things about nobility and honor." He takes several steps back and starts to pull his other sword from its scabbard. "And no matter the situation, you must always remain on equal grounds with your opponent. At least I can see that you're confident in your abilities."

Lamar couldn't understand. Why was he, the son of an esteemed family of an ancient bloodline, being the receiving end of such judgemental looks. He was trained by only those his father viewed as the best, so an mere outsider couldn't be possibly far more skilled than he. Even Percy's earlier weapon didn't seem all that impressive. Such a weapon looks far too heavy to be wielded with a single hand.

As disgraceful as this may sound, but Lamar has the advantage in this fight. Like his mentor stated; speed always beat brute strength. Taking several steps back so that there was a decent gap between the two, Lamar offered a sloppily performed saber solute. Fighting back the urge to roll his eyes, Percy drew his sword and returned it, but was far more precious and serious in his delivery. Now in position, Lamar was about to put his arm behind his back and get in his stance until he saw Percy's.

Percy slightly bent his left leg forward while his other was planced behind him. He held his sword slightly above his head, positioning the hilt of the blade at the right side of his head. What bothered Lamar was how it was drawn to aim directly at his throat. Does he plan on killing him?

'No.' Lamar shook his head and tries to steady himself. 'He must be using some barbaric technique. How expected of an outsider.'

It was now clear in Lamar's mind on who will be the winner of this duel. Getting in his own stand, he balls a tight fist behind his back as he steadily held his rapier above his waist.

"I believe you have a wager in mind to initiate a duel this late at night," said Percy.

Lamar almost wanted to laugh. "Didn't think you were going to bring it up."

"I've been challenge far more times than you," he flatly said. Percy relaxes his grip on his sword as he continues, "Then again, I have a feeling this is your first duel without your father's supervision."

Lamar felt something snap within himself. Without thinking, he lunges forward. Just as Jeanne had pushed her way past her father's body, she stood at the told of the hill as watches as Lamar's rapier is bounced upwards after after receiving a upwards strike from Percy. Stumbling back, Lamar lowers his weapon to rub his wrist.

It happened so fast. It shouldn't have, but it did. Percy, as if he had already anticipated his first move, stepped back seconds before Lamar moved his arm to jab forward. By the time the tip of Lamar's blade was close to touching Percy's chest plate, he had changed his grasp on the hilt and cut upwards to counter his attack.

Because of the difference in thickness, Lamar had felt his entire arm vibrate with the metal. Percy remained unfazed and assumed a different position, one which Lamar can only guess is a defensive one. Irritated, Lamar attacks once more. Every jab and every cut was met with a quick and precise parry. Never once did Percy raise his arms too high. Up, down, left , right, Lamar eventually resorted to blind cuts rather than jabbing at specific non-vital parts of Percy's body.

He could not lose like this. He could not yield. As for Percy, he knew he couldn't last much longer. Although he was more than capable in cutting down an enemy with just one strike, Percy knew Lamar wasn't the enemy. Just a young noble who has yet to prove his title. Percy knew this duel was just Lamar's attempt at repairing the damage he had caused on the young man's pride.

Still, this musn't go on any longer. Lamar attemps to cut Percy once more, but he dodged to the side, grabbed Lamar by the arm and pulled him closer. Percy drove his knee to to his sides, effectively ending the fight as Lamar drops his weapon and drops to his knees, clutching his side as it began to ache..

A large smile covers Jeanne's cheeks whereas her father stood behind her, stunned at what he just witnessed. Percy brings his feet close together as he sheathes his sword. In shock and pain, Lamar weakly lifts up his head in time to see the other boy's hand quake.

"Your weapon brought you at a huge disadvantage... yet you still used it," Lamar said in between coughs. He stares at Percy's other sword. "The one that paper boy stole. Why didn't you use it?"

Percy bows his head to conceal the upper half of his face with his hood. "I mean no disrespect, but there is only one person that I'll exchange with this sword. There are a few exceptions, but you are sadly not one of them."

"I see." Lamar, still rubbing his side, said the required words, "I yield."

"Good," said Percy, relieved to know the duel has ended peacefully. "You are to cease any harmful activities to Sir Jacques' daughter immediately. I am sure you have no qualms over this."

"Yes... I, Lamar of Amboise, declare- wait, Jean's a girl?" Lamar asks, immediately dropping formalities in shock. He stares at the girl who stood atop the hill slackjawed, dumstruck at the revelation.

Red in the face, Jeanne sticks her tongue out then yells, "That's what you stupid boys get! Even Percy knew I was a girl the moment he laid eyes on me!"

Lamar gave him a look while Percy immediately turned his head away, trying his best to hide his embarrassment. He did have his suspicions, but he didn't want to openly admit that he did initially mistake Jeanne as a little boy.

Percy coughs then spoke up, "Anyway, do as I requested and leave. I'm certain you want to spare any further headaches for your father."

Lamar grimaces but knew he was right. As a noble, it is his father's duty to manage and maintain the land given to the family by the king and the lives that are bound to it. With the sudden new orders from the king, it has become difficult for others with a similar position like his father to fulfill his role as a noble. Standing up, he was about to call his horse until Percy stopped him.

"One moment." Lamar turns to face him as Percy approaches while taking something out from underneath his cloak. He asks, "Have you seen this individual as of late?"

Lamar eyes the drawing then shakes his head. "Sorry, never saw this person in my life."

"I see..." Percy let out a discontented sigh. "Thank you."

Whistling for his horse, Lamar grabs the reins and prepares to climb up. As he does, ignoring her father's protests, Jean runs down the hill and to Percy's side.

"That was amazing!" she happily chirps. "You've got to tell me how you use that sword of yours!"

"As if a girl like you is allowed to learn," Lamar scoffs after setting himself on top of his horse. He scornfully tells her, "Girls like you aren't allowed to participate in battle. Before I was saying it because of your weak body, but now it's different." He tugs for his horse to turn so that his back was facing them. "Even if you do gain the skills to fight, no army would ever accept you. Give up on your dreams in becoming a knight."

They both watch as he road off into the darkness. Percy secretly looks down to see Jeanne's face; her jaw clenched and her eyes were filled with fury. She refused to say anything, but he knew what she was thinking, and he can empathize with her dilemma. While it wasn't the same, he knows what it's like when you're told you're incapable not becoming a knight.

Jacques, having heard what Lamar said after he got to the bottom of the hill, approaches his daughter from behind and places a hand on her shoulder. She was about to shrug it off but stops when she saw that Percy was watching her. Biting the bottom of her lip, she bows her head and follows her father as he gently guides her to face their home.

"You're invited to stay for supper," said Jacques as he stares down at his daughter with solemn eyes. "We don't have much, but it's the least I can do as an apology."

He thought of denying his invitation again, but then realized how late it's gotten. Had the duel never occurred, Percy would still have time to wonder around the world to continue the rest of his search, but now that the moon has risen, he has no choice except to accept. Without a word, Percy follows after the two up the small hill and into their home.

Now that he got a closer look at the structure, he can tell from the wear and tear on the surface that this wasn't just a family home. The housing has most likely housed generations of Jeanne and Jacques' family. On the right side of the hill, there was a small garden of flowers; protected by a short cobblestone wall at the bottom while the remaining sides were poorly trimmed hedges.

Upon stepping on the porch, Percy feared that one misstep will cause a portion of it break after hearing a loud creak from the floorboards. When he placed his hand on the railing while climbing up the short steps, he nearly had a heart attack when it broke. Percy wanted to apologize but Jacques waved it off.

"Don't worry about it. You're not the first one that broke it," he said.

This made Percy even more guilty for his intrusion. There were three windows on the outside, though all three were misaligned and crooked. To Percy's surprise, Jacques slides the door rather than pulling it to open. Stepping aside, he watches as Jeanne slowly enters. Her shoulders were slumped and kept her eyes glued to the floor. Once inside, Jacques gestures Percy to come in before being the next to step inside.

Still feeling hesitant, Percy slowly steps inside. In an instant, he is greeted by the comforting warmth of a fireplace. Just one look around the room and he felt himself relax just from the cozy atmosphere it gave off. As expected from the exterior of the home, much of the wooden furniture appeared hand-made. They appeared to be well-maintained, especially the sofa chair that was seated close to the fireplace.

Through a wide archway to the right living room, Percy saw that it had straight to what he can assume was the dining area and the kitchen. It was hard to tell since there were various objects scattered. After sliding the door shut, Jacques locks the door and stashes the key behind a lose brick at the bottom of the wall.

"Sorry, we don't receive many guests," Jacques apologizes.

"It's fine. I just..." Percy trails off, refusing to finish.

Jacques chuckles, having already figure what it is the young man wanted to say. "It's not the cleanest home in the countryside, but since it's just Jeanne and I, we do what we can. "

Percy refused to say more. He hadn't meant to be involved with Jeanne to this extent. Learning more about Jeanne and her families circumstances will cause him to break one of the rules Rei kept reminding him; never become too deeply involved with an In-Worlder. The only exceptions being Travelers. Now he worries how he should avoid falling any further into - what Xavier tends to call - the rabbit hole..

From there, Percy refused to further analyze his environment. Any ounce of curiousity would further drive him away from his current task. Speaking of, he'll have to contact Rei later and inform her of a potential delay. Knowing her, she'll be monitoring communications until he gets back. Though he hopes she still remembers to take care of herself.

Jacques escorts him upstairs, though it was difficult to traverse to the upper foor since the steps were suspended. With only the wall as support, Percy had to keep his eyes on Jacques' back as he carefully climbed the stairs. Jeanne watches from below, clutching in her small arms appeared to be a neatly folded white sheet.

Once more, Percy refused to take in his surroundings. Human curiousity is a blessing and a curse. Jacques noticed the boy's silence but chose not to pry. He stops in front of a door at the end of the hall. To his confusion, the man unlocks the door with a seperate key, though had for more difficulty in unlocking it. Almost as if the room hadn't been used for some time.

A deep scowl crosses Jacques' tired face as he stares down at the lock.

This prompts Percy to speak up, "I can find lodging elsewhere. You don't need to go this far for a mere stranger."

"Nonsense," Jacques said with a forced smile. "Besides, it's about time we put our ghosts behind us. Jeanne has been subjugated to this depressing atmosphere for long enough."

Finally twisting the key all the way, Jacques had to press his body against the door just for it to open. Lucky for Percy, the room wasn't as dusty as he initially believed it would be. Pushing the door all the way, the man steps aside to allow the boy to enter. Upon entering the room, there was very little furniture, but they all appeared bought and well-maintained.

This made him wonder when was the last time anyone had entered since the door hadn't been opened for quite some time. There was an audible sigh from behind him.

"Ugh... I told Jeanne to stop entering this room without my permission..." Percy hears the man grumble. Coughing, Jacques changes his tone as he spoke, "I'm sure you're tired. I'll have Jeanne send you up something to eat. I'd have you join us, but as you saw earlier, we weren't ready for guests."."

"Like I told you earlier, sir, it's fine. You providing me a bed is more than enough."

"If you say so..." Jacques mutters. Just as he was about to shut the door, he stops then tells Percy, "I know this is too much to ask, but if she asks, please refrain from showing my daughter your swords. The last thing I want is to lose another child to one..."

Quickly picking up on the situation from the last sentence, Percy's lips firmly press together as he nods. Relieved at his silent understanding, Jacques closes the door and leaves to head back downstairs. After waiting several more seconds until the footsteps were completely gone, Percy lets his shoulders relax and reaches up to remove his hood.

It was a surprise it hadn't fallen off during his earlier fight with Lamar. At least now he didn't have to worry about anyone catching sight of his full appearance. Pulling down his hood, Percy pulls out his pony tail, allowing some cool air to travel down his neck. Spotting an oil lamp on the nightstand, he walks over it and twists the small little copper knob. The fire flickers for a moment before fully illuminating much of the room.

As the light begins to fill the room, it properly reveals what Percy has been hiding underneath the hood of his cloak. Tied in a high pony tail were long locks of an unnatural shade of blue. Some of the light bounces off Percy's hair, revealing some transparency, sparkling and refracting some blue light into some parts of the room. Seeing the curtains were pulled back, Percy walks over to the other side of the room and pulls them to cover the window.

He was about to let go of the fabric until he notice something curious about the pattern. The symbol on it reminded him of Rei's clan. At first he thought it was a coincidence since, according to Xavier, most patron gods and goddesses merely copied from one another. Something to do with a competition related to creation.

If something or someone appeared similar to another from a different world, it wouldn't be all that surprising. But according to Rei, as far as she knew, there is no other world with the same symbol of her people. This prompted him to immediately use his Holos.

Rubbing the hanging gemstone of his earring, Percy whispers, "Rei... Are you there?"

"Sorry!" He scowls at the familiar child-like voice. "But your girl finally clocked out after hours of waiting for your next call. You sure know how to make the ladies wait."

Rolling his eyes, Percy sits on the bed and pinches the bridge of his nose. "Please tell me she's okay..."

"Don't worry, the girls dragged her out to relax." When he heard a small 'thump' in the background, Percy could only guess Xavier had placed his feet on the control panel. Again. "I'm pretty sure they brought her to the Silent Siren Tavern. Or maybe the Red Lantern? Either way, she's out there, and I'm here."

"And here I was hoping to have a decent conversation...." he sighs before laying his back on the mattress.

"Hey, I'm far better than Noise, Ulric, and the twins," Xavier argues. "Mostly Sound. I already know you haven't figured out the holographic function on your Holos. Because unless you want to have a one-sided conversation with a mute, he's the last person you'd want to have a conversation with."

"Okay, okay..." Percy sighs in defeat. He falls back to lay his back against the hard cushions of the bed. "You have me there. Anything happened to any of the factions while I was away? I can trust the dragon, but I have very little trust in Noise. Gods knows why he was chosen as my stand in..."

"Not like you can argue against the will of the Patron God," Xavier said, albeit with a slight hint of sarcasm. "But, in his defense, at least it's someone you know." Percy felt did Xavier had a point. Which he retracted when Xavier added, "Besides, Sound told Noise he'll alter his sleep schedule to have longer breaks if he takes his job seriously. You know that lazy ass can't resist if sleep is involved."

Now he's even more concerned over the state of his faction. While not necessarily the leader, it was his job to train the new members. Just picturing Noise doing his job was almost enough to drain the color from his face. And he's pale enough as is. Before he could say anything, there was a small knock from the door, prompting Percy to let go of his Holos as the door slowly opens.

Not surprising, it was Jeanne that had entered. She appeared to be struggling in carrying a tray full of food with a steady grasp. He pulls his hood up before she notices then sat up. Percy was about to stand to take the tray off her hands. However, she sent him a defiant look, silently telling him to let her handle it. Percy raises his hands to both sides of his head and smiles.

Pleased to see this, Jeanne, although she struggled, was able to carry out her task. It was odd that she was the one to deliver his meal since her father just told him not to allow her to inspect his weapons. Then again, it's most likely she insisted in being the one to deliver, and from his experience with fathers, they have a difficult time arguing with their daughters.

She set the food on the nightstand but pauses when she stares at his face.

"Aren't you going to remove your gear?" she curiously asks, causing Percy's shoulders to tense. "I know you don't plan to stay long, but won't that be uncomfortable to wear when you sleep?"

"W-Well, I don't feel comfortable in undressing in a stranger's home..." he nervously answers, habitually scratching his cheek.

Jeanne eyes him suspiciously. When she tries to make eye contact with him, he immediately averts his eyes elsewhere. Pouting, she marches up to him and reaches up for his hood. He panics as she attempts to remove his cloak.

"Wait- You musn't...!"

"Oh don't be a big baby! I've undressed my big brothers dozens of times when they're trying to hide their wounds from dad! So it's not like-" When she successfully pulled down his hood, her words were caught in her throat after locks of blue spilled over his shoudlers.

Because Percy acted too hastily to conceal his hair, the hair tie had come undone, allowing much of his hair to spill out. In Jeanne's eyes, it was like watching a spring of water burst out. At first, she was in awe of the appearance of his hair, then, when the realization dawned on her, she nearly yelps and stumbles back.

"Y-Your hair! It's-!"

Percy rushes over and covers her mouth. "Shush! Don't raise your voice!" He waited for a moment until he knew Jacques wasn't coming up to check the commotion. Removing his hand, he quietly tells her, "If you promise to keep quiet and listen to my story, I'll allow you to take a look at my swords."

Jeanne thought this over. While that was her initial intention, to learn such a secret in exchange made her wonder if it's worth it. After some consideration, she made her decision.

"No." She shakes her head. To his confusion, Jeanne grabs his hands and held them up. "I'll listen to what you have to say. No strings attached."

At first he was confused with the girl's sudden mature decision. But as he stares into her green eyes, Percy felt a cold shiver run down his spine when he saw a familiar golden glow in her eyes. He knew what this meant.

"Jeanne... may I ask you something before I say anything?"

Tilting her head in confusion, she silently nods.

"Is there a reason why you want to fight so much?" Jeanne stares back at him with wide eyes. Percy tells her,"Your father asked me not to show you any of my weapons. Every parent's caution always originates from a certain event."

"So he still doesn't want me to join the fight..." she murmurs with a small smile. She lifts her head back up and answers, "My name wasn't always Jeanne. I remember being called something else, but that was so long ago that I forgot. "

Percy stares back at the girl's face with wide eyes. She and Jacques look almost alike that it hadn't crossed his mind that she was adopted. Then again, he he had refused to further analyze his surroundings upon entering their home. Maybe if he did, he may have noticed some hints. Parents may try to hide it, but if they've experienced the loss of a child, they'd keep an item or two out as proof they existed.

Such keepsakes are easily noticeable, most especially photos.

"I had an older sister who served the King before I arrived. She was a great knight and fought for the sake of God, but..." Jeanne trails off as she stares down at the floor. "She was captured and burnt at the stake like some sort of witch. My brothers left to join the secret rebellion again the King in retaliation for the death of their beloved sister. That's why father doesn't want me near anything related to the war or the rebellion against our ruler."

The more he listened, the more Percy began to wonder if the law restricting fishermen to venture further out to sea had any connection to the war. Any good King would focus on the wellfare of his people. This story about Jeanne's sister sounded oddly familiar, something that he heard from Xavier. She further explains on her intentions on becoming a great knight like her sister.

Their conversation lasted for what felt like hours. Even the fire began to slowly die out as the oil lamp continued to burn its remaining fuel. As they continued talking, tears began pour down from Jeanne's eyes, but she didn't appear to notice. Percy wanted to say something but stopped himself from interrupting the girl.

By the time she had finished, her eyes were puffed and red; tears had long since run dry but her cheeks were still damp. To see a child cry this much told Percy just how long she's been forced to bottle up her feelings, so it wasn't a surprise to him to see Jeanne lose control once she began to open herself up. It almost reminds him of how Rei was before they began seeing each other.

After she calmed down, she was invited by Percy to sit on the bed beside him.

"So," she sniffs, wiping her face with her arms. "What's your story?"

Percy stands and unsheathes the sword she had stolen earlier that morning. Her eyes widen as she stares at a long, blue gemstone revealed before her. It only took her a moment to realized that the gemstone was the blade of his sword, and that it completely matched Percy's hair.

"This sword was said to have come from the lake but was placed into a stone after its previous bearer died. It's a weapon of a hero. However, that is not who I am." He goes on one knee and presents it to Jeanne. "For a long time, I felt like I was obligated to do what I thought was expected, but I never realized that the only obligation I had was too myself; no one else."

Jeanne reaches over and gently touches the smooth surface of the blade, but stopped when she felt several scratches.

"You feel you have obligation to achieve what your sister could not just because you were given her name, is that correct?" Percy summarized, to which Jeanne silently responds with a small nod. "But that's not why they took you in. Maybe at first they saw something in you similar to their lost loved one, but they eventually grew to love you as yourself. But it's because of those similarities that they fear you can end up going the down path that led to her demise."

She never thought of it that way. Only one interaction with the man and listening to Jeanne's feelings was enough for Percy to figure everything out. But the way he worded it, it almost sounded as if it was something he's gone through as well.

"And you figured this all out... just from talking with my dad?" said Jeanne.

Percy sheathes his sword and places a hand over her small shoulder. "Whatever you choose to do from here must come from your heart. Don't let the beliefs of others or your religion guide your actions."

The last thing he wants to see is another young one readily give up their life and blindly run into the field of battle. A war shouldn't be waged to begin with, but with every world Percy has visited, regardless of the species, it is inevitable. Still, he could not bring himself to dissuade Jeanne's decision to one day wield a sword of her own.

He too was like that when he was younger before being saved and recruited into Avarus. The least he can do is pass on some words of wisdom; words he wished were given to him rather than having to undergo various situations to learn such things by himself.

"I..." Jeanne stares down at her own reflection on the surface of Percy's sword.

"You don't have to say another word. Just know that you are never truly alone. Remember that."

This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

----------------------------------------

The sun had barely risen by the time Percy had aroused from his sleep. He knew the sooner he left the better. It was no longer just for the sake of finishing his initial mission, but also for the sake of the family's safety. Although it was brief, now that he's seen the potential within Jeanne, Percy knew one day he or someone else will come to retrieve her. With or without a report, someone will scout the area, and the occurrence my happen anytime soon as long as she's within age.

Best to leave now so that later on, he can delay the search long enough until Jeanne was too old to be recruited. Adjusting the few pieces of armor he wore, Percy fastens the bronze clasp of his cloak and pulls his hood up once more. While it was in poor taste for him to leave without saying a word, he felt this was for the best.

Jeanne had attempt to spend endless hours asking questions about himself and his sword, but he remained as vague as possible. The last thing he wants is a second person chasing around a walking fantasy. Before he exits the room, he stops to stare down at the neatly folded piece of parchment paper on the pillow. On top of it was a golden coin with a fleur-de-lis as the crest.

He saw that symbol in various worlds; and be hopes that this will give the courage Jeanne needs to face whatever future fate has in store for her. With everything in place, Percy completely opens the door and steps out. Outside of the home around a few meters away, the same person adorning the knight's helm watches as Percy exits the D'Arc family home.

His eyes, however, were completely fixed on the sword hanging on the young man's left hip. When Percy felt he was being watched, he gazes I'm the direction of the unknown individual, who no longer bothered concealing his presence. Both stared directly at one another; one with their eyes filled with contempt while the other appeared amused. When the person turns to walk away, Percy does not waste a second and automatically dashes after him.

Those who had a chance encounter with the unknown knight awoke, feeling different from how they were the day before. Katarina sat up in her bed to stare down at her ring. Jacques was on his knees in his room clutching a burnt white banner in his arms, burying his face in it to muffle his voice as he cried. Lamar was found standing in front of his bedroom window when a servant arrived to serve his breakfast.

The fight he had with Percy felt exhilarating; a sensation he hadn't felt in a long time. Jeanne had arrived in Percy's room only to find he had left. She spots the letter and the coin then picks them both up. It was only when she touched the two items did she realize something.

"Oh right... I never got to learn his name."