Catitao sprawled out before them, a bustling metropolis teeming with life and activity. Ships of all sizes dotted the harbor, their masts reaching towards the sky like a forest of towering spires. The cacophony of voices, the scent of salt in the air, and the rhythmic clang of metal against metal filled the atmosphere.
Despite the chaotic scene, Valicar couldn't shake the feeling of being confined. Easton Von White's watchful presence seemed to shadow her every move, preventing any thoughts of escape from materializing. The twins exchanged puzzled glances, wondering at the captain's unwavering vigilance.
As they made their way through the city, Easton's commands were followed with precision by his crew. Orders were given to resupply the ship and attend to necessary repairs, all while ensuring Valicar remained under close supervision. His explanation about sending a letter ahead and arranging for a carriage seemed plausible enough, but Valicar harbored no illusions about their true intentions.
She knew they couldn't afford to raise suspicions, especially with Easton's keen eye fixed on them. Any attempt at deception would be swiftly exposed, and the consequences could be dire. Time was slipping away, and the urgency of their situation weighed heavily upon her.
So they played their part, allowing themselves to be escorted through the bustling market streets, all the while plotting their next move. With each passing moment, Valicar's unease grew, knowing that their fragile facade could crumble at any moment, revealing the truth beneath.
"Are you hungry, My Lady Norail?" Easton asked, drawing Valicar's attention away from her thoughts.
"The food from that vendor smells rather good," Sophia admitted truthfully, her stomach rumbling in agreement.
"Very well, shall we go there then?" Easton suggested, gesturing towards the bustling street.
"I'm going to run to the privy over there while you buy the food if that's okay," Sophia proposed, pointing to a nearby building.
"I wouldn't normally dare leave you alone in a city this dangerous, but very well. I can see the entrance from here, just be quick about it," Easton said, sounding uncertain as he scanned the area for any potential threats.
"I'll be right back," Sophia called back with a reassuring smile as they hurried off to the public outhouse.
Inside, they found what they were hoping for a small, dimly lit room with a window on the other side of the entrance, just large enough for Sophia to fit through.
"Let's dip, we have a 5-minute head start tops!" Sophia declared, urgency lacing her words as Mike wasted no time darting due north towards the city gates. Sophia summoned Blue Dawn to her hand, the sword arriving after a few seconds, covered in wooden splinters from where it had torn its way free from the Storm Breaker.
"Now he's gonna kill us for sure if he finds us," Mike quipped as they leaped across rooftops, the city stretching out below them.
"This place is huge, at least twice the size of Drisco. You know, Mike, this city probably has an Adventurers Guild. It seems big enough anyway," Sophia pondered aloud as they landed on another rooftop, their footfalls echoing against the tiled surface.
"From what GG said, they just sound like sell swords, so why do you care about them so much, Soph?" Mike questioned as they continued their rooftop journey.
"Well, they hunt monsters for one, so they are a very important part of the empire as a whole. Plus, if someone like Easton is running around using Holy Magic, maybe there are other magic users in the guild," Sophia explained, her voice carrying a hint of excitement at the prospect.
"I'll admit, being able to meet other mages outside of the church would be nice, but remember what GG said about this branch being a shell of itself compared to the Adventurers Guild on the elf continent," Mike reminded her, his tone thoughtful as they navigated the cityscape.
"Yeah, the guilds here are pretty much just made up of normal warriors and rangers as far as I know, but GG mentions there being mages just walking around like normal on the Eastern continent. We should go there soon if we want to meet more mages," Sophia said longingly, her mind drifting to the distant lands where magic flowed freely.
"Not being hunted for a change would be nice too," Mike added, his eyes scanning the bustling cityscape as Valicar gracefully navigated another rooftop, their journey through the city continuing with a sense of urgency.
Suddenly, a searing bolt of pain tore through Valicar's shoulder, causing both Sophia and Mike to cry out in agony. "AHHHH, FUCK!" Their shared voice echoed through the air as they crashed onto the next rooftop, their descent halted only by a fortuitous collision with a nearby fruit cart.
"What the fuck was that?" Mike's voice rang out, filled with a mixture of shock and disbelief, as he tried to make sense of the sudden assault on their shared body. His eyes widened in horror as they landed on the source of their agony—a gleaming spear, its golden surface reflecting the harsh sunlight, embedded deep within their shoulder, the ethereal tip piercing through to the other side with cruel precision. The pain pulsed through their body like wildfire, each heartbeat sending waves of agony radiating outward.
"FUCK FUCK FUCK, TEMPLARS NEARBY!" Mike's panicked voice erupted, his hands trembling as he gripped the shaft of the spear lodged in their flesh. With a grim determination, he yanked the weapon free, eliciting a guttural cry of pain from both Sophia and Mike. Meanwhile, Sophia's mind raced, weaving together strands of arcane energy as she channeled the healing spell. "Icarus Mora," she intoned, her voice infused with magic as she directed the healing energy toward the grievous wound. Slowly, the torn flesh began to knit back together, the searing pain gradually subsiding as the wound closed, leaving behind a faint scar that marred their otherwise flawless skin.
As the healing spell took effect, Valicar rose to their feet, their muscles tense and coiled like a spring, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice. With a fluid motion, they drew Blue Dawn from its scabbard, the golden hilt gleaming in the sunlight as they assumed a defensive stance, their eyes darting about, scanning the surroundings for any sign of their unseen assailant.
A crowd had formed, drawn by the commotion, their murmurs filling the air like a buzzing swarm of insects. Then, another spear came hurtling down from above, aimed with deadly precision at Valicar's vulnerable form. But this time, Mike was ready. With a swift movement, he intercepted the spear, his muscles straining against the force of the blow. "Fuck that stings," he hissed through clenched teeth, his grip tightening around Blue Dawn's hilt. "We need to get out of here, Soph," he urged, his eyes scanning the crowd for any sign of their attacker. The onlookers, sensing danger, began to scatter, clearing a path through the chaos.
"We meet again, Valicar," a voice boomed through the tumult, cutting through the din like a blade slicing through silk. Bellic strode confidently down the street, his golden axe glinting menacingly in the sunlight, a formidable presence surrounded by a dozen of his loyal men.
"Fancy meeting you here, prick," Mike retorted, his tone dripping with disdain as he squared off against their adversary. Meanwhile, Sophia gathered power into Blue Dawn, her hands trembling with suppressed fury as the blade flared to life, wreathed in an ethereal blue flame that danced and flickered in the air.
"Name calling, really? After everything I did to find you," Bellic chided, his voice laced with a smug arrogance that grated against their nerves like sandpaper on skin. "Tisk, tisk, Valicar. It seems being dressed like a noblewoman doesn't grant you the grace of one," he taunted, his men fanning out around Valicar, their swords drawn and ready for battle.
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"You are a persistent pain in my ass, you know that," Mike declared, his voice filled with frustration as he prepared a wave of flame to counter Bellic's advance.
"The feeling is quite mutual, heretic," Bellic retorted, his axe enveloped in a radiant golden light as he brought it down in a sweeping arc to meet the blue blaze of Mike's magic. The clash of their weapons ignited a brilliant explosion of magical energy, sending shockwaves rippling through the air and hurling Valicar once again into the unforgiving pavement below, while Bellic stood unmoving, his stance unwavering amidst the chaos.
"God fucking damn it, I'm so tired of being sent flying by this asshole," Mike grumbled as he struggled to regain his footing, his frustration palpable in every word.
“I know, a Bankai or 6-path power-up would be nice right now,” Sophia remarked sarcastically, her voice dripping with irony as they braced themselves for the next onslaught.
"Give it up, child. You are no match for this vessel of God's wrath," Bellic declared, his voice booming with conviction as he formed another golden spear in his free hand, preparing to hurl it toward his adversaries.
"Not gonna happen, church thumper," Mike retorted, his stance defensive as he brandished his sword in readiness for the impending attack.
"Very well," Bellic responded, his expression grim as he unleashed the spear directly at Valicar. However, before it could find its mark, it was intercepted and deflected by another golden blade.
"That... hat..." Sophia's voice was barely a whisper, her shock evident as she took in the unexpected turn of events.
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE!!!" Bellic's roar reverberated through the street, his anger palpable as he demanded an explanation for the interference.
"I'm the one who should be asking that! How dare you attack a noblewoman in broad daylight," Easton Von White interjected, his voice ringing out with authority as he stepped forward, sword leveled at Bellic with unwavering determination.
"THAT IS NO NOBLE WOMAN YOU FOOL! She carries the same legendary sword her uncle did! She is a Witch!" Bellic's response was fierce, his grip on his axe tightening as it pulsed with divine energy, casting an ominous glow in the bustling street.
"I am aware, and that changes nothing. She is a member of House Norail, whom I have promised to return home. She is under my protection until such time, Bellic," Easton declared, his words carrying the weight of his unwavering commitment. The other templars, momentarily taken aback, shifted uneasily, uncertain of how to proceed in the face of Easton's steadfast resolve.
"Do you believe you will get away with this, Von White? The church will hear of this, and even the Emperor won't be able to protect you," Bellic seethed, his voice trembling with anger as he confronted Easton.
"I need no one's protection, Bellic. Or do you need another lesson on why I can do whatever the fuck I want?" Easton's response was firm, his gaze steady as he held Bellic's stare. In that moment, Sophia thought she detected a flicker of fear in Bellic's eyes, a rare display of vulnerability from the formidable templar.
"THIS ISN'T OVER, VON WHITE! THE PILLARS WILL HEAR OF THIS! I SWEAR IT!" Bellic's aura waned as he sheathed his weapon, a palpable tension hanging in the air as he gathered his men and stormed off in a fit of rage, heading north without another word.
Easton sheathed his sword, his golden aura fading as he approached Valicar with a sense of urgency. "Quickly, put that away. We must make haste, you little fool," he said, his tone laced with annoyance as he dropped the formalities he had previously maintained.
"Why did you save me?" Sophia's question hung in the air, a momentary pause in their frantic escape.
"Not now, kid," Easton replied tersely, his focus solely on their swift departure. Without hesitation, he scooped up Valicar as if she were weightless, effortlessly carrying her as they leaped dozens of feet into the air. Along the building's edge, Easton ran with a speed that bordered on the supernatural, shattering shingles beneath his feet as they raced northward.
Soon, they reached the stables where a carriage awaited them. They wasted no time in loading up, the urgency of their situation palpable as they prepared to leave the city behind. It was then, in the fleeting moments before their departure, that Sophia decided to speak again.
"So, why did you save me if you knew I was lying?" Sophia asked cautiously as they settled into the carriage.
"I told you I would see you home, and I intend to do that," Easton replied simply, his gaze focused ahead.
"What about your ship and men? Are you not worried for their safety without you around?" Sophia pressed, her curiosity mingled with concern.
"As incompetent as they may have seemed in that fight with the Kraken, they are quite capable. My men have their orders. But it's funny—you seem worried about my ship now, after you punched a hole in it," Easton said bitterly, a hint of reproach in his voice.
"Oh yeah... sorry about that," Sophia said sheepishly, a tinge of guilt coloring her tone as she blushed.
"I still don't understand why someone would risk it all for someone they barely know," Mike said, suspicion tinging his tone.
"While our acquaintance may be new, I knew your Uncle very well. Though we were on opposite sides back then, I have since changed allegiances, as I'm sure you may have heard," Easton explained.
"You knew Valicar?" Mike's surprise was evident.
"Yes, from his days in the adventure guild to his trip across the seas. It was quite the pleasure to sail with him," Easton confirmed.
"And House Norail... you know I'm not a lady... and I am a mage," Sophia added carefully, seeking clarity.
"Yes, I've been aware since we met, but you are still of noble blood to a royal line dating back centuries," Easton said vaguely, his gaze thoughtful. "You may not know much about your house yet, but it has deep roots in this land—roots some people would like to return to."
"You speak of the old kingdom of Kelvidion?" Sophia asked, her interest piqued.
"I see you study your history," Easton acknowledged with a nod. "The thing about this royal family is that every member was a mage or born with magical talent. This is part of the reason the original family was purged, but the fact that you have the ability is just further proof of your lineage. So there is a rather strong push from several noble families to return to the old kingdom and use this claim to the throne to unite the men. There is also the fact that the only people who can stand up to a templar are mages, but the church has seen fit to wipe out all traces of them on this continent. This leaves House Norail with something Landon doesn't have... a living mage."
"So my family wants to meet me because of this proof of royal blood?" Sophia asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.
"I knew you were a sharp one, but yes, they essentially want to use you as a figurehead for the rebellion," Easton explained matter-of-factly, a hint of amusement in his tone as he added, "My lady Valicar."
The blatant answer took them aback. "To what end?"
"Until they are in control of a free Kelvidion once again and the church lays in ruins," Easton replied solemnly.
Taking this news somberly, Sophia fell into a contemplative silence, pondering the weight of her newfound heritage as they continued their journey in the carriage.
"This might be our way to destroy the church without the vault," Sophia told Mike excitedly.
"Do you think these fools have a chance to take on the entire empire, let alone the four extremely powerful Pillars?" Mike questioned skeptically.
"Easton seems pretty strong, plus like you said, the keys to the vault seem to all be extremely powerful. So if we collect enough of them and combine it with my power plus the rebellion, maybe we would have a decent shot to end the persecution of the mages," Sophia said hopefully.
"I'm down to collect them, but jumping headfirst into a full-on war with the empire seems pretty dumb, Soph. The bigger picture to me is the ward being torn down by some mad god. This whole thing just seems so... convenient, like someone is pulling the strings of fate. Maybe an insane god is pushing us along the way and we should slow down," Mike said, his tone tinged with paranoia.
"Since when have you ever wanted to take things slow?" Sophia teased.
"This whole thing is just sus, but being a king could be kinda cool," Mike mused.
“Queen,” Sophia corrected with a smirk.
Weeks stretched into a blur as they journeyed northward, their travels punctuated only by brief pauses for meals and rest. Sophia and Mike marveled at the sights of the empire unfolding before them—the well-packed dirt roads, meticulously maintained by the local lords under the Emperor's decree, stretched through landscapes of rolling hills and lush greenery. They passed by farms where laborers toiled under the sun, and through villages bustling with townsfolk of all shapes and sizes, each scene painting a vivid picture of life in the empire.
Their lodgings varied little from one stop to the next—a typical wooden inn with welcoming staff eager to accept Easton's coin in exchange for shelter. Yet, despite the familiarity of their accommodations, each new destination held its own charm, offering glimpses of landscapes that seemed lifted from the most picturesque of paintings.
Finally, the day arrived when their carriage rolled to a stop before a towering iron gate, marking their arrival at their destination. Beyond the gate stood a grand mansion, its facade crafted from gleaming marble and adorned with statues that dotted the lush garden. Flowers bloomed in vibrant hues, while meticulously trimmed bushes lined the pathway leading to the house, where a sparkling water fountain served as the centerpiece of the estate.
"Welcome Home, My Lady. It's time to meet the family," Easton announced, his voice tinged with a hint of anticipation.