ã€ŠInter-World Shift: An Office Worker Becomes an Adventurer&#x27;s Daughter!ã€‹


 Chapter 0: Prologue

    Chapter 0: Prologue

    Rain washed away the blood and tears off the face of a woman whose body was crumpled up and lying limp beside a dumpster. An explosion rocked the plaza she had been walking through, throwing her broken form dozens of feet to where she now lay. A poorly maintained and leaking gas pipe below the street had erupted and resulted in disaster for everyone walking above it.

    Sirens from emergency vehicles wailed in the night, the only thing louder than the screams of innocent bystanders, everyone clamoring for aid amongst the cacophony of chaos. Despite the setting, she herself wasn¡¯t making any sounds beyond a pitiful whimper as blood began to pour from her mouth, nose, and eyes, her organs ruptured and damaged beyond repair.

    Slowly, an invisible curtain dropped around her, the noise of the carnage growing distant. The colors of the world began to slough off her surroundings, mixing into a visceral amalgamation of rain and ink like a surrealist painting. As the light of signs and floating ads grew dim, shouting reverberated somewhere nearby, as footfalls of heavy boots slowly raced towards her.

    An emergency worker kneeled beside the woman, looking at her dazed expression and grimacing at the state of her body. A deep sigh of fatigue snuck out from behind his lips as looked at his companion, shaking his head.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, darling.¡± His poker face was weak, not even an attempt made to hide the reality of the situation. His tired eyes were filled with years of experience, his traumas visible through the crows feet.

    A painful rasp responded, coughing on her own blood.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine¡­¡± she sputtered, trying to form the words. ¡°I know it¡¯s over.¡±

    ¡°Do you have family to contact? Anything I can tell them?¡±

    The ability to speak coherently fading, the woman merely shook her head, tears now pouring out mixed with blood and regret.

    My family was never close to me, but after a lifetime of movies where someone dying asks for their parents or a sibling on their deathbed, I get it now. That is¡­ even if mine had always felt like strangers merely brought together by blood and circumstance.

    ¡°There are people that still might make it, we¡¯ll have to come back to finish her triage .¡±

    His companion nodded in agreement, and with a wave of his hand, closed her eyelids, pulling back the final curtain over a now silent world around her unmoving body.

    I already wanted to die, but now that I¡¯m here, I¡¯m so scared. Everything has lost its vibrancy, and I¡¯m so cold. Why is it so dark? Why can¡¯t I open my eyes back up?

    Without any words, she whispered a final goodbye. The woman who had been known as Sayko Ashcaster drifted off into the forever sleep of death.

    At least, that¡¯s what she thought.

    --

    Drifting through a sea of stars, the cosmos acting as a cradle to Sayko¡¯s now floating, featureless body, she wondered if she had reached an afterlife of sorts. Towards the center of the horizon was a swirling mass of stars, light, and pure energy swelling and pulsing rhythmically like a giant heart, its soft beating filling her ears.

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    Beyond it in every perceivable direction there were galaxies, nebulas, and a hundred billion points of light that held a nearly infinite amount of planets and possibilities. Despite the brilliance of it all, she wasn¡¯t properly digesting the expanse of beauty that stretched out before her. The trauma of death was still fresh in her mind, consuming every one of her senses.

    A literal once in a lifetime event was passing her by, leaving her to reel with what had happened.

    Her ears still rang with the deafening boom of the explosion and the screaming that filled the night air. Her chest and insides felt crushed, damaged beyond repair, but the pain had long since melted away, she didn¡¯t seem capable of bleeding anymore. By the bizarre grace of the stars and the loving embrace of death, she had been freed from the worst parts of dying.

    She wasn¡¯t sure how much time passed as she slowly drifted through space, her thoughts finally bothering to catch up with her current circumstances. It was then that all the noise inside her head fell flat, dissipating into nothingness as she beheld eternity and the vastness of space.

    With her mind now clear and ready to perceive it, a delicate, androgynous voice filled her thoughts.

    Hello mortal child. I am sorry beyond any measure that can be expressed with human language.

    Awkwardly fumbling at her own throat, trying to find a voice of her own, she responded in a meager whisper.

    ¡°I feel stupid asking the obvious, but am I dead?¡±

    A soft chuckle rumbled through solar clouds of stardust, before the voice responded once more.

    That isn¡¯t a ¡®stupid¡¯ question at all. If dying and your soul being thrown aloft to drift in the endless expanses of the Nether Void didn¡¯t raise any warning bells, I¡¯d be far more concerned about your mental state than the obvious question of your demise.

    ¡°Huh¡­ Well, that aside, it figures I¡¯d die from some one-in-a-million freak accident. It feels even worse because I normally never take that shortcut, but I was in a hurry so I could get home to play an MMO and hopefully forget the dread of having to work tomorrow like every other adult.¡±

    Very, very few people get to decide the circumstances of their death, and you are just one of many trillions across the stars who found themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Although she knew the voice was trying to comfort her, the annoyance of it all was beginning to build.

    ¡°Well, whatever. Am I just going to float here now for billions of years until the heat death of the universe?¡±

    Currently you¡¯re at an interstellar junction that marks the space between life and death known as the Nether Void. There are countless instances of this very place stacked infinitely on top of one another, an inevitable crossroads where every soul will eventually reach at least once.

    ¡°So does that make you god?¡±

    No, I am merely one of many wardens that places mortal souls onto the correct path for their next existence. Using a book of souls, we determine if a soul is ready to retire to the afterlife or if they¡¯re to be reincarnated on one of any infinite number of planets spread out across the universe. Where they go or whatever awaits, while seemingly random, is determined by a combination of their past deeds and their present desires.

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ a lot to unpack. What awaits me, then? The afterlife or another stagnant existence working another dead end job?¡±

    Is there a singular wish in the depths of your heart that you¡¯d love to see come true?

    Trying to resist the urge to give a knee jerk, smartass response out of a desire to mask her inner sadness, she pressed a finger to her cheek and thought for a moment. She already knew what her deepest desire was, but due to a lifetime of putting up walls to prevent herself from being hurt by others, she hesitated for a moment.

    ¡°I¡­¡±

    Yes?

    Shaking her head, she called out in a frustrated tone.

    ¡°Why am I being self conscious?! I¡¯m dead! I don¡¯t have to worry about being a cringe thirty-something anymore!¡± Balling her fists and grabbing at clothing that wasn¡¯t there, she screamed out at the top of her lungs.

    ¡°I WANT TO BE LOVED! I WANT THERE TO BE MEANING TO MY EXISTENCE! And I don¡¯t mean some nonsense love story where I find validation in a partner like some clich¨¦ romance, I mean having family and friends!¡± She said, borderline panting as if she had just conquered Sisyphus¡¯ trial.

    That will be taken into consideration. The book has now spoken to me and I am sending you to a very particular world. You will still face trials in your new life, but you will have the opportunity to find all that you desire. Good luck, Sayko Ashcaster.

    Before she could digest the words of the mysterious entity, someone snapped their fingers near her ear and everything was suddenly drowned in a blinding white glare, a torrent of noise filling her ears. As if she had been thrown in a raging river, she felt her body carried out to sea by an invisible undertow, rushing towards a brand new, uncertain future.

 Chapter 1

    Whispers and a stir of echoes surrounded Sayko. The blinding lights faded into softer shades of gray as the world came into focus.

    As her eyesight returned, she found herself staring at an unfamiliar ceiling that definitely didn¡¯t resemble her own bedroom, let alone a hospital or any medical facility she had ever visited. It was a combination of intricate wood and stone tilework that seemed more fitted in a fantasy setting than reality.

    Her gaze shifting downwards, she realized curtains surrounded the bed she was lying in- something that DID resemble a hospital or clinic. The bed itself was extremely plain; the sheets were beige, not particularly soft, but enough to keep a patient warm, the frame supporting the mattress white and unremarkable, with a single pillow to support her head. There was no comfort to any of it, serving only function over form.

    Sayko''s brain began buffering as it processed her whereabouts, pinching her arm to ensure she wasn¡¯t dreaming. Although her memory felt hazy, like distant islands on the horizon enshrouded in fog, the two things she still had vague recollections of were an explosion that had maimed her, and a dreamlike conversation with a strange being while floating through the stars.

    Wiggling her toes and fingers, checking to make sure all her faculties were still intact and responding, she slowly sat up in bed. Although everything seemed to be functioning as it should be, her body felt exceedingly stiff, her limbs somehow weaker and not correctly proportioned like she thought they should be.

    Maybe it¡¯s my imagination? Sayko thought to herself, shrugging it off as disorientation after the night she had.

    It was at this point that she realized several things about herself were off.

    Not only was her hair longer than it should be, let alone braided, but her vision was superb, her hands awkwardly fumbling at her own face to confirm she no longer had glasses on.

    Looking down, she noticed that the bed must be fairly high off the ground, because her legs didn¡¯t quite meet the hardwood floors below; or was she maybe somehow shorter? With this, she slowly rose to a standing position, doing a quick double take to ensure there weren¡¯t any IVs in either arm to catch on.

    Aside from a nightstand with a notebook on it, there were no medical machines or hospital equipment of any kind to speak of. Not only that, the usual sterile fluorescent lighting and its familiar hum were missing. Instead, there were strange, ornate fixtures that radiated a warm, yellow light that felt vaguely reminiscent of soothing natural daylight.

    Trying to take a step forward, she found that her legs were shockingly thin, trembling as she took each step forward. A quick glance around the space for a cane or walker of some kind yielded nothing, with the bed and nightstand being the only objects within reach of the bed. Sighing, she shook her head and gingerly took a curtain in her hand and pulled it to the side as she stepped out into the room beyond.

    Scanning the room, she found herself in an artificial corridor between two rows of similar makeshift ¡°rooms¡± sectioned off via curtains. Although she could hear distant footsteps and conversations, it seemed that no one else was currently in the room, at least, none that were awake. To her right, the path bisecting the rooms lead to a pair of solidly built oaken double doors, to the left, a bay window and what seemed to be a makeshift nurse station that held various supplies and boxes.

    Turning her head forward, she parsed the curtains across from hers with a hand, seeing an identical layout as the space she just emerged from. Inside was the same bed and nightstand combo with matching sheets and frame, although this space had a figure lying in the bed.

    Curiosity getting the better of her, she crept towards the seemingly sleeping figure, her bare feet barely making a sound on the wood floors. Nearing the patient, she bent down towards their motionless form, searching for signs of life.

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    The patient appeared to be a woman no older than her early twenties, with long aqua blue hair pulled into a neat side bun to not disturb her head or neck. Her breathing appeared shallow, so soft that Sayko had to put her ear nearly to the woman''s mouth to confirm she was still breathing. Despite this, her face seemed healthy,  with no signs of distress present whatsoever, a peaceful expression drawn across her face.

    Sayko pulled away from the woman, more puzzled than she already was.. She quietly tip-toed out of the space and pulled the curtain back to where it was before to give the sleeping woman some privacy. At this point, feeling a bit lightheaded and her legs quivering, she decided it was time to return to her own bed to sit for a moment.

    Laying back on the mattress, she stared at the ceiling once more.The truth began to dawn on her that this body may not be her own, and more important still, neither was this world. The initial haze of waking let her shrug off these glaring issues, but now that some of her mental fog was clearing beneath the sun of a new day, she was having a harder time ignoring the truth.

    I vaguely remember a dream that I was going to be reincarnated again!? Am I someone new? Why wasn¡¯t I reborn as a baby!? What the hell is happening?!

    About fifty other thoughts questioning her circumstances and whereabouts fired off immediately. Dread and panic filtered into her lungs and heart, swiftly carried away to every corner of her body. Waking up in a ward full of seemingly comatose people made her wonder what was truly real anymore and whether or not she was currently dreaming, or if her life before was the real dream.

    However, trying to untangle the increasing jumbled web of thoughts in her mind would have to wait, as her attention snapped back to reality from the sound of one of the double doors opening reached her ears.

    After a few seconds, the sounds of a pair of nurses entering the room greeted her, pushing some kind of cart with them as they moved further towards the makeshift station. They were chatting casually, although she couldn¡¯t make out what they were saying.

    Paralyzed with indecision of whether to feign sleep or seek their aid, Sayko wrestled with her own indecisive thoughts as to what the appropriate choice should be.

    If they¡¯re hostile, they¡¯ll probably figure out I¡¯m not really asleep anyways! I might as well take my chance to get help! Her thoughts racing, frantically trying to commit to a plan of action.

    Taking a deep breath and trying to calm her now pounding heart, she stepped off the bed and threw aside the curtain, setting foot into the makeshift corridor once more. Turning to face the nurses, she watched as they turned away from their conversation to the newly awoken patient standing before them, their smiles swiftly fading and being replaced by an expression of shock.

    Feeling a lump of pure anxiety swelling inside her throat, she found herself unable to speak, only awkwardly sputtering out a few noises that vaguely resembled words. As she strained to clear her throat in front of the nurses, the world began spinning, dizziness overcoming her as she tried to remain standing confidently in place.

    The curtains, the poles supporting them, and everything else suddenly skyrocketed in height as the floor graciously caught her frail body as she landed particularly hard on her right shoulder. Wincing as a sharp pain arced through her upper body, she watched helplessly as one of the nurses leapt forward to carefully shift her onto her back.

    ¡°Abby! Grab Matron Lowell and any cleric on duty! Tell them one of the sleepers has arisen! Tell them it¡¯s Celica Lorenz''s daughter!¡±

    Nodding, Abby leapt away and ran out of the room, slamming into one of the doors with considerable force as she left.

    Turning back towards the girl on the ground who¡¯s eyes now filled with tears, the nurse put a gentle hand onto her cheek and tried to whisper kind words to the girl.

    "There, there, sweet girl. Let me make sure it''s safe to move you and I''ll get you back into bed."

    Although the shoulder pain was negligible compared to everything else that had happened, it was the final straw that broke her proverbial camel''s back: she really was dead and lost in some foreign world with a frail new body.

    Wasn''t twelve years of public school plus fifteen years of slowly dying inside working a dead end job not enough punishment?! My only reward was a violent death, why do I have to do it all over again?!

    What happened next surprised even Sayko, having lived by the motto of "momma didn''t raise a bitch". She had built up every wall possible to prevent herself from feeling too much hurt, wearing it like an armor, yet nothing couldn''t stop the pent up emotions from bursting forth.

    Against her own will, tears poured down her cheeks and she started to sob.

 Chapter 2

    The gravity of her situation finally settling in, Sayko did something that surprised even herself.

    She cried.

    It had been literal years since she had let a dam of emotions burst, trying not to wail as the nurse wrapped a strong pair of arms around her now frail body, pulling her into an embrace. The last time she had let herself fully break down was over a decade ago, but between burnout and a perpetually growing sense of apathy, she had stopped letting herself feel anything beyond the occasional spike of annoyance or anger.

    The nurse was a heavy-set woman with greying hair and striking violet eyes,; unabashed kindness gleaming behind them. Wrinkles at the corners of her mouth hinted at a lifetime of smiles and laughter, trying to bring joy to her patients whenever possible. She whispered gentle affirmations into Sayko¡¯s ear, trying to soothe the upset girl as best she could.

    ¡°Let it all out, sunshine. Solaris only knows what yuv been through, six years is a helluva long time to be sleepin¡¯!¡±

    After the nurse managed to calm her down, she rather effortlessly scooped up Sayko¡¯s scarecrow frame and delicately set her down on the bed. The wailing had stopped, and her tears slowed, but her eyes remained puffy and red, silently trying to gather the courage to speak. The adrenaline from waking had already subsided at this point, and now she felt feeling waves of fatigue crashing against her shores.

    Ducking away behind the curtains followed by the sounds of someone rummaging through a drawer, the nurse emerged in mere seconds with an empty pewter cup. Holding it out with one hand, she hovered the other hand above it, palm facing downwards, mumbling a few words to herself. A circle of light appeared below the outstretched hand, various runes appearing within its perimeter, water pouring from the light directly into the cup.

    Once the vessel filled, she waved her hand and the light instantly flickered out. Kneeling in close to Sayko, she offered the cup of water to her.

    ¡°Drink up, darling! There¡¯s no shame in cryin¡¯, but we gotta have yuh replenishin¡¯ that water!¡±

    Nodding, Sayko took the cup and gulped down the water, realizing how thirsty she was. Emptying the cup in nearly a single gulp, she handed it back to the nurse who exchanged it for a handkerchief she had been keeping in a pocket.

    Grasping the handkerchief, Sayko wiped her eyes, her vision having grown blurry from the faucet of tears. Her embarrassment rising after having emptied nearly fifteen years of pent-up emotions out all at once, she turned away, scarlet tinges flashing across her cheeks. It was jarring that the woman had reacted so kindly when the last time she had cried in front of anyone she had just been laughed at and made an object of scorn.

    As she finished composing herself, the doors to the ward opened. Several pairs of feet rushed into the room. The curtains parted revealing Abby, the nurse that had first found a distraught Sayko, along with a similarly dressed woman she assumed was the ¡°head matron¡±, as well as an elf man wearing vibrant teal and white robes bringing up the rear of their group.

    Striding to the nightstand and opening a diminutive drawer, the head matron withdrew a neat set of papers that were stamped with an elaborate coat of arms. She slid a finger gingerly under a wax seal and opened the documents, her eyes scanning the pages before cleared her throat.

    ¡°Do you remember your name, child? Do you remember anything about yourself?¡± Her voice terse, but not hostile either.

    Looking between everyone, Sayko wasn¡¯t sure how honest she should be considering the circumstances, let alone the haze surrounding her memories to begin with. While her brain buffered over what to say, the gray-haired nurse put a hand on her shoulder, giving her a reassuring squeeze.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, dearie. You¡¯re safe here.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s Sayko. I¡­¡± pausing, she took a deep breath. ¡°At least, I dreamt I was a woman named Sayko, but that¡¯s all I really remember.¡± A white lie, not sure of how they''d react to her answer.

    Although none of them seemed particularly surprised by her answer, the elf sighed nonetheless.

    ¡°I hope that someday there¡¯s a patient that can fully describe what they experienced while afflicted by Aporis Abjection. Amnesia and the comatose state seem to be the only two universal symptoms thus far we can reliably count on finding.¡±

    The matron lowered herself to nearly eye level with Sayko, trying to muster a meager smile.

    ¡°I¡¯m Emma Lowell, head matron and nurse of Euripides Sanatorium. The place you¡¯re in is a hospice for people suffering from chronic magical illness, with this ward being dedicated to those afflicted by the sleeping sickness,¡± she paused for a moment to ensure Sayko was following her so far.

    ¡°The nurses who found you, Abby and Yuna, have been looking over you, as well as the rest of the sleepers in this room, for the last six years.¡±

    She continued as Sayko nodded; confusion painted across her face.

    ¡°Although I don¡¯t doubt you dreamt about many things, your real name is Senna Lorenz. You¡¯re the daughter of the heroic adventurers Celica and Petrus Lorenz. We¡¯ve already sent a runner to fetch your mother who lives here in the city, she¡¯ll be overjoyed to see you awake!¡±

    Sayko¡¯s head was spinning, her thoughts swimming for a meaning to everything unfolding around her.

    Having waited patiently for matron Emma to finish speaking, the elf spoke once more.

    ¡°My apologies for not introducing myself first,¡± his voice was rather posh, his language formal and reserved, ¡°My name is Artemis Silvervine, I am one of the resident clerics here at Euripides. Anytime a sleeper wakes, I like to ensure that they aren¡¯t at any risk from any underlying conditions before they¡¯re discharged. I¡¯m honestly amazed you were able to walk at all with how few physical stimuli you¡¯ve had for six years.¡±

    Already overwhelmed by everything happening, Sayko hadn¡¯t once thought about that. If this body had been lying limp for six years, shouldn¡¯t her legs be essentially useless? This world was clearly revealing itself to be a fantasy world more and more so maybe there was a component of stasis to the entire affliction. For a woman who ate up fantasy anime, she realized to literally no one¡¯s surprise, it didn¡¯t prepare her for the situation she found herself in.

    ¡°I guess I was just so caught up with panic that I was able to push myself to get up¡­¡± she nervously chuckled.

    "Yes, I suppose so. It¡¯s to be expected for the daughter of notable heroes like your parents, let alone your older sister.¡±

    I have an older sister?!

    ¡°That said, you are what we call a ¡®low risk¡¯ sleeper. There were no major underlying health conditions to worry about nor any risk factors of Ject Mutatem, so I¡¯m not particularly concerned about discharging you today.¡±

    ¡°Ject¡­Mutatem?¡±

    ¡°Oh! How foolish of me, of course you wouldn¡¯t know. It¡¯s when a sleeper mutates into an abomination due to Aporis Abjection corrupting the Ject itself: the anchor that ties soul to body. Once mutated, they often go into violent rampages-¡°

    Seeing the immediate horror on Sayko¡¯s face, Emma immediately interrupted.

    ¡°Artemis don¡¯t terrify the poor girl! I don¡¯t think she needs the gritty details if it isn¡¯t relevant!¡±

    The realization that his patient was a scared teenage girl, not a fellow scholar, caressed his face like a long-lost lover, as his eyes widened, composing himself as he coughed uncomfortably into a balled fist.

    ¡°R-regardless of that! I¡¯ll do one final examination to make sure there are no other lingering maladies or unusual occurrences hiding beneath the surface!¡±

    Extending both palms¡¯ forward, his eyes softly closed as a look of focus brushed over his face mumbling an incantation to himself. A sigil of light appeared in front of him not unlike Yuna¡¯s when she summoned water, although this was a much larger sigil and the intensity of the light seemed more intense. The runes somehow seemed more intricate as well, turning in various clockwork like motions as he recited the incantation.

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    Sayko¡¯s heart sped up.

    Will this reveal that I¡¯m really some thirty something office worker from another world!?

    Several orbs of light no bigger than gumballs emerged from the sigil, playfully dancing back and forth in the air surrounding Artemis. After about six or seven emerged, he stopped his incantation and the sigil disappeared. Waving a hand casually at Sayko, the orbs started flickering rapidly, before hovering around her mostly prone form.

    Small rays of light began to radiate off the orbs, the orbs themselves beginning to move around her form almost like some sort of advanced medical scan. They danced around her body flashing their lights as they went, and after about four or five minutes finally stopped, all evaporating out of the air with a small crack!

    About five minutes of ¡°hmm¡¯ing¡± and ¡°oh I see!¡± passed by before Artemis finally addressed his patient and the three nurses, the latter of whom seemed mildly annoyed at this point.

    ¡°Everything checks out! You¡¯re as healthy as the day you fell under the war criminal¡¯s spell!... Well, you know, minus the muscular atrophy!¡±

    Yuna interjected at this point, annoyance at the cleric rising.

    ¡°Artemis I¡¯m sure yer a busy man, patients and all down below. We gotta get this little one into a wheelchair and prepped to go home!¡±

    ¡°Osira amongst us, you¡¯re correct! It was lovely to meet you dear girl, I always love seeing someone recover fully from Aporis Abjection! Alas, our celebration must be short lived, I must be off to meet with my other patients!¡±

    Without another word and parting with a satisfied grin, he sauntered off in a relatively carefree manner about him, the door gently thudding behind. Matron Lowell sighed in response, relief evident in her tone, clearly wanting to return to her duties.

    ¡°The bedside manner of a cleric is often nonexistent. It takes a kind hand, but they sometimes forget it¡¯s a person in their charge, not a problem from a textbook. I digress,¡± she turned towards Sayko.

    ¡°Senna, I¡¯m honored to have helped watch over Petrus and Celica¡¯s daughter for six years, but alas, this is goodbye. Abby and I must return to our work, but I¡¯ll leave you in Yuna¡¯s care until your mother arrives.¡±

    ¡°Th-thank you¡­ I don¡¯t really know what to say.¡± Her voice somewhat faltering at the genuine affection in Matron Lowell¡¯s voice for a girl she never actually met until today. Beaming graciously back, Abby piped up as well, clearly the most reserved of the trio.

    ¡°You don¡¯t need to say anything at all. We¡¯re just happy to help!¡±

    Sayko tried to turn away to hide the tears in her eyes, the two nurses bowing deeply to her before they turned and left the room. Yuna had already stepped away to fetch a wheelchair which was nearly identical in appearance to one found on Earth, albeit a touch rustic. The grin she bore all the while made the girl¡¯s heart flutter in the strangest ways imaginable.

    When¡¯s the other shoe going to drop? People aren¡¯t this kind for no reason.

    Gently propping up Sayko into position to transfer her into the wheelchair, Yuna began making chit chat.

    ¡°I ¡®magine it goes without sayin¡¯, but are yuh ready to leave and start yer life over?¡±

    Not responding right away, grunting softly as she let Yuna move her into the wheelchair, she thought about the question earnestly. Flashes of the life she had lived prior to this rebirth arced like lightning across an ominous sky in her mind¡¯s eye. A world that had left a continually worsening bitter taste in her mouth that never felt like home was seemingly a thing of the past, the clock having reversed maybe as much as twenty years.

    ¡°I am¡­ but I¡¯m scared. I don¡¯t know the first thing about being Senna Lorenz.¡± She admitted, not intending for the latter half to be spoken aloud.

    ¡°I spose not, amnesia and all. But that¡¯s okay! Know why, darlin¡¯?¡±

    ¡°No¡­¡± Her golden eyes widening.

    ¡°Because regardless of who yuh were as a little girl six years ago, yer a teen now and a blank slate. Yuh aren¡¯t set in yer ways, yuh aren¡¯t burdened by the past. Yuh get a new life, not many folk get to experi¡¯nce that!¡± She hesitated briefly, before chuckling and added, ¡°I mean, even if yer still young enough to not have lived much of a life yet.¡±

    ¡°Yeah¡­ you¡¯re right, though. It¡¯s a fresh start, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    ¡°Course I am, all these grey hairs are a sign of my wisdom!¡± She fluttered her eyes and made an exaggerated cutesy pose, making Sayko giggle.

    ¡°Anyways, yer mum is prolly nearly here, I¡¯m sure. Why don¡¯t we get yuh out of here?¡±

    Anxiety dripped into her veins like a leaking faucet, forcing a pained smile in response. Family was a touchy topic, having been essentially a stranger to her own in the life before. How would the woman react to her ¡®daughter¡¯ being a virtual stranger to her? It was also dawning on Sayko how much care she was going to need. Learning to walk again was the least of her worries compared, to catching up on educating herself on the ways of the world in a brand new life.

    Despite that, it still somehow felt more hopeful than spending another day in that dreary office building being treated like an object by her peers and management.

    As they traversed to the foyer of the sanatorium, she was surprised at the level of development their society had accomplished for what seemed to be a fantasy setting. The building was very well lit inside, fixtures on the ceiling at fixed intervals running off some unknown energy, the building itself was very clean and seemed well cared for as well. The occasional nurse or custodian seemed well groomed and in good spirits.

    This doesn¡¯t seem like a medieval setting you¡¯d see on earth. Maybe this city or country is particularly well off?

    Another nurse rushed over to push the doors open for them, letting them exit into the main waiting area. They were a set of oaken double doors ahead not unlike the ones in the ward she woke up in. Here there were a handful of people loitering about or speaking to nurses. Not unlike a regular hospital, there was a large reception desk of sorts where a couple of workers seemed to be sorting through parchment and ledgers.

    This was the first room that Sayko noticed large glass windows, realizing it was still relatively early in the day due to the amount of sunlight filtering into the room. The room itself wasn¡¯t terribly different than something you¡¯d see on earth, albeit with a lot more wood being used rather than the plastic and metal.

    As they approached the desk, someone called out, breaking away from the nurses they were speaking with.

    ¡°Senna!¡±

    A woman that looked no older than her mid thirties started running towards the pair. She had shoulder length navy blue hair pulled up into a high ponytail and bright yellow golden eyes that shone to a nearly supernatural degree. She was somewhat slender, but her exposed muscular forearms revealed years of experience wielding swords and bows.

    Beneath a white and black jacket, she wore a loose-fitting navy-blue blouse that matched her hair, with tanned leather pants and tall, functional military boots, an air of martial prowess surrounding her. The cherry on top that seemed strangely fitting for her appearance was a diagonal scar that ran down her brow, across the bridge of her nose, and ending on her cheek.

    As she ran across the lobby gracefully weaving between visitors and staff, she came to a stop in front of them, immediately kneeling down to eye level with Sayko. Her eyes shone, cautiously extending a slightly shaking hand out to caress the girl¡¯s face.

    ¡°It¡¯s really true¡­ you¡¯re awake¡­¡± Her voice soft, barely a notch above a whisper.

    Unable to explain why, Sayko found herself blushing, and for the first time since arriving in her new body, felt like a child in a way that matched her exterior. Unable to explain why and defying all reason, this woman felt like her mother, even though they were meeting for the very first time.

    "I¡¯m your momma, Senna,¡± her voice cracking, tears filling her eyes.

 Chapter 3

    The mother and ¡°daughter¡± peered at each other, only silence hanging in the air between them. Several bystanders looked on expectantly, all of them silent, not wanting to interrupt a tearful reunion.

    ¡°The nurses already told me you have amnesia, so you probably don¡¯t remember, me. I¡¯ve come by here as often as I can for years, holding your hand and praying to whatever god will hear me out for you to wake up.¡±

    Deciding to give a forthright response, Sayko replied, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I don¡¯t remember you,¡± not wanting to give false hopes to the woman who was clearly bearing her heart for all to see. ¡°But I want to get to know you again. I don¡¯t know anything about myself, not even my name until they told me, but if you¡¯ll have me¡­¡±

    Nodding as tears finally found their way down her face, her voice cracking, ¡°Of course I will! Baby, I have been dreaming of taking you back for six years. Are you ready to go home?¡±

    Several people still nearby could be heard sniffling or seen wiping tears away. It was already occurring to Sayko that waking up from Aporis Abjection was no small feat. For this many people to be this moved, clearly chances ouf recovery seemed extremely slim. Yuna stepped away from the wheelchair, gesturing for Celica to take her place. As Celica slunk a box of rope running through it over her back, she gripped the handles, turning back to the nurse.

    ¡°How many lunars do I owe you for the wheelchair and crutches?¡±

    Stepping up from seemingly out of nowhere, Emma Lowell stepped forward.

    ¡°For how much your family has sacrificed? Nothing. Your husband is missing, your eldest daughter still works to protect frontier communities, and you went six years without your other daughter due to the aftermath of the crisis. You¡¯ve paid enough.¡±

    Opening her mouth for a moment, Celica wanted to dissuade her, but she decided not to question the sincere kindness of the Matron, instead smiling and looking bashfully at the ground, before bowing to show her appreciation of the gesture.

    ¡°Thank you, Matron Lowell. Pardon my offense, but I hope we don¡¯t have to see anyone here again, at least under these circumstances, again.¡±

    Several of the nurses laughed, while Celica beamed at Sayko, turning the wheelchair towards the lobby doors. A pair of nurses hurried over to open the doors for her, and she gave thanks as

    they traversed the threshold onto the cobblestone street outside. Sayko mouthed her thanks to them as they passed, before turning to give a final wave to Yuna, who had especially left an impression.

    Outside, a bustling city met them. It reminded Sayko of something straight out of a textbook about pre-modern Europe. The streets were a neatly paved cobblestone of sorts, with sidewalks and multilevel homes lining either side of the road. The woodwork was breathtaking, fashioned with care by master craftsmen and, despite how tightly packed in the homes were, every single one of them looked shockingly cozy.

    The sky above was a rich cerulean, not a single cloud to be seen. The sunlight immediately warmed the girl to her core, kissing her pale body that had been living in shadow for years. If she had to guess, it was the beginning of summer, due to how many laborers were running back and forth, let alone the foot traffic filling the road, making way only for the occasional carriage.

    The foot traffic gave way for the pair as they tried to stay off the cobblestone street, preventing the ride from being miserably bumpy for Sayko. She was thankful for the wheelchair, periodically tearing her attention away from the sights and sounds to flex her legs, realizing they felt like barely a notch above dead weight, making her marvel at how effective adrenaline was to let her walk for a short time in the sleepers ward. Sighing, she couldn¡¯t wait for the day when her legs would be strong enough to walk these streets on her own.

    Turning down a side street, Celica cleared her throat.

    ¡°It just hit me; we need to get you clothing! You¡¯re in nothing but a hospital gown and the clothes at home are from when you were eight years old!¡±

    This girl was eight years old when she fell asleep? That makes me fourteen now. What an awful age to be reincarnated! She quietly shuddered, thinking back to the misery of middle school.

    Directing her voice down at Sayko, she asked in a demure tone, ¡°Do you feel good enough to quickly stop by a shop down the road? If you¡¯re feeling overwhelmed, though, we can head home and worry about it tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡± she hesitated, unfamiliar with being given a choice in the matter. ¡°I don¡¯t mind making a stop, this gown isn¡¯t very comfortable and kind of ugly,¡± she awkwardly chuckled, wondering if Celica was just trying to make a good first impression of sorts.

    ¡°That barf green isn¡¯t really your color, anyways.¡± She giggled, playfully poking Sayko¡¯s side.

    Laughing together for a moment, Celica steered her around a corner, traversing several neighborhood alleyways until they came out onto another market street of sorts. This one in particular must not have been a main road, as the pedestrian traffic was far sparser than when they left Euripides Sanatorium. Shops were lining either side of the road, with a few street stalls set up in the alleys in-between buildings.

    About halfway down the road, they stopped at a particularly audacious looking storefront that bore a luxurious looking sign above the entrance. Narrowly fitting the wheelchair through the door, a

    shop keeper¡¯s voice rang out to greet them before even a full step had been made into the establishment.

    ¡°Welcome to Reyna¡¯s Boutique where we aim to impress with the dress! How can I-¡°

    What Sayko could only describe with plain English as a ¡®catgirl¡¯ came around a corner, stopping dead in her tracks upon seeing Celica and Sayko having crossed the threshold of the shop.

    ¡°Qualia my goddess, please tell me my eyes aren¡¯t deceiving me. CELICA!?¡± She leapt eagerly towards the woman, the two of them embracing in a tight hug, the two of them very clearly old friends. Coughing, Celica sputtered as the catgirl wrapped her arms firmly around her torso.

    ¡°You¡­ just saw me¡­last week.¡±

    ¡°You know I¡¯m gonna pounce for the real thing every time I see you!¡±

    The woman¡¯s shoulder length hair was a tawny and golden blonde, with two black tufted cat ears resting on the top of her head. Almond shaped hazel eyes with golden flecks in them scanned the pair, the pupils sharp and diamond shaped shining brightly against her porcelain skin. The previously mischievous smile instantly transformed into a wide grin, as she broke away from her embrace.

    Eyes wide at seeing a real-life human with cat ears, Sayko scanned the woman up and down trying to take in something she had only seen in cosplay and media. Her frame was wiry and athletic despite her job as a seamstress, making the girl think she must¡¯ve been a fellow adventurer alongside Celica. She was about a head shorter than the latter, a roguish air dripping from her person that spoke to her sly nature, agility, and the ability to blend into a crowd.

    ¡°What brings you in-¡°She began, her words falling short once she looked down at Sayko sitting in the wheelchair.

    Her eyes widened in shock, her jaw figuratively dropping to the floor. In full volume, she screamed, ¡°GODDESS ABOVE YOU¡¯RE SHITTING ME, SENNA¡¯S AWAKE!?¡± Leaping back in shock as she yelled, nimbly landing on the sales counter, her tail jet puffed in surprise.

    Sayko awkwardly waved, eyes closed with a shy smile on her face while her mother grinned broadly, a hand on her daughter¡¯s shoulder. Hopping off the counter and rushing forward, Reyna knelt down to eye level with Sayko.

    ¡°I know you probably don¡¯t remember me, but I¡¯m your auntie Reyna!¡± Grinning widely, revealing sharp incisors, ¡°I used to travel with your mom once upon a time, back before I started this shop! I moved to this city along with another friend of ours a few years ago so she wouldn¡¯t be alone!¡±

    Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.

    Unsure of what to say, Sayko proved that painful awkwardness and tenuous social skills follow you regardless of how good your karma was in the past life. Mumbling while staring down at her own legs, she forced out a response.

    ¡°I don¡¯t remember you¡­ but I can¡¯t wait to get to know you. I¡¯m Sa¡­Senna.¡±

    Giggling at the obvious, Reyna slowly ruffled Senna¡¯s hair, a mild look of disbelief in her eyes.

    ¡°I know, child. We¡¯ve all been waiting a long time for you to wake up.¡±

    Her inquisitive nature getting the better of her, she asked the obvious question.

    ¡°¡¯We...?¡±

    ¡°Of course! Your parents made a lot of friends during the war, and we all became family. Not by blood, but by choice. A couple of us followed your mom back here to Enzen once things settled down a

    bit, but we try to keep in contact with everyone who survived.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­ Have you been taking care of her then?¡± Sayko responded, a blundering attempt at a joke.

    Belting out a laugh, Reyna put her hands on her hips in an exaggerated pose.

    ¡°You bet I am! This girl is a monster on the battlefield AND in a war room, but she¡¯s hopeless at having fun or taking it easy, so auntie here makes sure she gets out of the house and enjoys herself once in a while!¡±

    Cheeks turning red, Celica looked away, attempting to remain nonchalant about her friend¡¯s teasing. The bonds between the two were plain as day, and the joy in Reyna¡¯s eyes and smile was sincere.

    ¡°A-Anyways¡­¡± Celica composed herself a bit from embarrassment, ¡°She¡¯s going to need something more substantial to wear beyond just a hospital gown, wouldn¡¯t you say?¡±

    ¡°Look, I know it¡¯s practical, and I know they¡¯re dead asleep and don¡¯t really care what they¡¯re wearing, but this reject tablecloth is a crime. Who chose this color!? It¡¯s barf green!¡±

    ¡°Reyna¡­¡± Celica nodded pointedly at Sayko who becoming visibly more self-conscious about her getup.

    ¡°Ahem! Regardless, I have some pre-made clothes I can send home with you today but I¡¯m going to quickly grab your measurements so I can make you something special!¡±

    Sayko foolishly tried to step up and out of her wheelchair only to realize it really was adrenaline that carried her out of bed earlier that day, not some isekai superpower. True to her catlike reflexes,

    Reyna reflexively caught her before she could even topple over, giggling as she eased her into Celica¡¯s arms.

    ¡°You make a baby deer look like a gymnast,¡± she teased, her smile not ceasing for a moment.

    Celica held up Sayko¡¯s doll like form up while Reyna took some lightning quick measurements. Sticking her tongue out a bit as she focused on writing down everything, she turned her attention away

    to the racks of clothing artistically positioned around the store, with Celica slowly laying her daughter comfortably back into the wheelchair.

    Breaking away from the pair, the catgirl seized seemingly random articles of clothing from various places across the shop, running to and fro between displays. Snagging some boxes from behind

    the counter, she packed up about five or six outfits, a healthy pile of socks, and some underwear. Sizing up the stack, she shuffled over and set it in Sayko¡¯s lap, making sure it wouldn¡¯t topple over.

    ¡°Are you able to hold onto those okay?¡± Putting a hand on the girl¡¯s head once more. Nodding and giving as confident of a grunt as she could muster, she wrapped her arms around the boxes. Meanwhile, Celica was reaching into the coin purse at her side, but before she could get it

    open, Reyna grabbed her hand.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the cost, Celica. Consider these a combination of birthday and celebratory gifts for your little girl being awake once more. We¡¯ve all lost a lot and the world is finally healing, and

    you¡¯ve been long overdue for good news.¡±

    Sayko craned her neck back to try to catch Celica¡¯s response to the kind gesture, only to see a bashful expression that quickly disappeared out of sight as the woman turned away. The movement

    wasn¡¯t quite quick enough to stop a pair of tears from hitting her daughter¡¯s neck. Understanding not wanting to draw attention to your own tears, Sayko immediately turned to Reyna and called out to distract her.

    ¡°Thank you, auntie Reyna!¡± trying her best to force a grin even though a faking a smile felt like pulling teeth for her.

    Glowing at hearing her name, a heartfelt expression met Sayko, her ears twitching with delight. ¡°I¡¯m going to do you one better, though. I¡¯m going to have Gren bring over some food and meals for you. That way, everything major is out of the way so you can just spend some quality time together, you hear?¡±

    ¡°Someday I¡¯ll repay you, Reyna.¡±

    ¡°Being in my life is repayment enough.¡±

    The two women hugged once more, not saying a word between them. The connection clearly ran deep, something that could only be built by time and hardships together. Sayko couldn¡¯t imagine what the two women had been through, but it was plain as day that they were family, too.

    They¡¯re closer as family than I am to this poor woman¡­, she thought to herself rather gloomily.

    After they said their goodbyes, they went back out onto the street, Sayko clutching the boxes tightly against her chest and lap. She hadn¡¯t really paid attention to what outfits had been thrown together, too shocked by the exchange that had just happened. This world felt completely foreign; not because of magic or mythical beings, but because of the community and kindness everyone seemed to

    feel for one another.

    The rest of the journey ¡®home¡¯ was mostly uneventful, partially due to a cocktail of overstimulation and shock that was making the sights easier to digest. Although, as they were passing through Enzen city square, a particularly ornate plaza filled with marble fountains and intricate stonework sculptures, a screech rang out from the sky above snapping her back to reality. A passing wind drake was soaring above the city and gave a call to its partner in the distance, turning many heads in the square below. Most people laughed or pointed happily at the sighting which was relatively uncommon in the city, while Sayko clutched the boxes so tightly that they nearly all began to warp in shape.

    That thing is the size of an electric car, what the actual hell!?

    Once the creature moved on, she started to take in her surroundings once more. Throngs of bystanders loitered, making casual conversation amongst themselves with even more pedestrians moving between the lanes of foot traffic. There were people of every kind you could imagine: elves, dwarves, humans, and various individuals with secondary animal traits are collectively known as Qu¡¯len. If it hadn¡¯t full sank in before, it did now that she truly had woken in a fantasy world.

    ¡°Cel¡­¡± Pausing, she decided to commit to her role, ¡°Mom?¡± She asked aloud, unsure of how to properly refer to the woman.

    Giggling, Celica replied. ¡°Yes, you can call me ¡®mom.¡¯ Are you doing okay?¡±

    ¡°What are these statues? They¡¯re beautiful¡­¡± She didn¡¯t want to say they reminded her of something out of antiquity both because Celica would have no idea what she was talking about, and because they put any statue from Earth''s history to shame.

    ¡°They¡¯re a mix of myth and history. Despite being rebuilt and renamed several times, Enzen has been here for over a thousand years, and although we have books detailing that, having visual reminders helps make it real for some folk. Some of them also tell a story for the places that aren¡¯t here anymore and give a voice to people who have no hometown or homeland to where they can return.¡±

    ¡°When I can walk again, will you bring me here and tell me their stories?¡±

    Yuna¡¯s words echoing in Sayko¡¯s head, she realized she didn¡¯t want to be as passive as she was in her previous life, realizing how much beauty there was in the world at large.

    ¡°I¡¯d love that!... Although I may have to brush up on my history, too¡­¡± Celica responded sheepishly.

    Leaving the plaza behind, passing a couple streets of pubs, restaurants, and shops, they once more entered another neighborhood. Reaching the end of the road they were on, they stopped at a

    small set of stairs leading down to a somewhat hidden cul de sac of small houses squashed between the

    lanes of multi-story housing. The houses clearly predated the surrounding neighborhood by a generation or two, yet somehow still managed to look natural against the buildings towering above them.

    Taking a deep breath behind her, Celica whispered in her ear. ¡°Don¡¯t panic, I don¡¯t want to make you have to get out of the chair yet.¡±

    Before Sayko could digest the words, the woman kneeled behind the wheelchair, a grunt escaping her lips before handily lifting it off the ground. Letting out a small yelp as the girl¡¯s stomach lurched, feeling gravity release its tendrils around her, the ground growing smaller beneath her.

    ¡°Sorry for startling you, I just didn¡¯t want it to be bumpy going down the stairs!¡±

    This woman is inhumanly strong, good lord!

    Momentarily hyperventilating and trying to loosen the death grip she had on the arm rests, Sayko started to understand why this woman had been an adventurer. Catching hands from a lady that strong could result in lifelong injuries, let alone bruises your ancestors could feel. It was especially shocking coming from a woman with such a humble, somewhat thin frame.

    Setting her down once more, she leaned down and pointed outward towards a particular house.

    ¡°That¡¯s our house!¡±

    Looking ahead, there was a waist high gate connecting to a tall cobblestone wall that looked to match the date of the roads and paths of the city itself. The house beyond was two floors tall, but still appeared to be rather humble, clearly dating a generation or two before the neighborhood around it.

    As they passed through the creaking gate, they came out on a small hand paved path that lead to the front door, bisecting a modest yard in front of the house. Several rose bushes lined the wall, with

    a small pond complete with babbling fountain tucked away in the corner, the entire space feeling picturesque right out of a fairy tale.

    Celica stepped forward and fumbled with some keys until she got the door open, and turned back to her daughter.

    ¡°We¡¯re home, Senna.¡±

 Chapter 4

    ¡°Tell me, my beguiling flowers, can anyone define the term ¡®power vacuum¡¯ for me?¡±

    A pale man only a shade darker than a ghost twirled a rose in his fingers, his fingertips nimbly dodging the thorns that lined its stem. Adorned in a tweed half jacket, he was overdressed for

    anything outside of a gala. His eyes were silver, a hollow gaze haunting them, his thin lips pursed almost as if he didn¡¯t understand his own question. Behind him a long dinner table filled the darkened room, extravagant massive windows lying ahead of him, immense curtains drawn shut over the glass, denying every occupant the warmth of the sun.

    ¡°Oh, oh! I know! Pick me, monsignor, pick me!¡± A woman in her mid-twenties frantically leapt up and down after leaping from her chair, desperately wanting the attention of the man.

    Several moments of silence passed, before another speaker responded. ¡°When someone in or of immense power has fallen and no one has replaced them to restore the status quo.¡± A monotone, almost bored sounding voice responded.

    ¡°Exactly, my sweet tulip. Does anyone know why we need this status quo?¡±

    ¡°C¡¯mon, I know the answer monsignor, pick me!¡± The woman¡¯s tone became a touch more frantic, her motions more animated.

    ¡°Without it, there is no natural order. Without strife, mortals will grow happy. Happiness and fulfillment breeds weakness, and our goddess despises weakness.¡±

    ¡°Another flawless answer, my delicate orchid!¡±

    Silence fell upon the room, aside from the whimpering woman who desperately wanted to be noticed.

    ¡°That foolish Kronomancer fell victim to his own arrogance, and once more the world has returned to peace. He did not take kindly to potential competitors, so with him gone, we are free to leave the manor once more. Our efforts to awaken the chained maiden can resume, but there is a matter to attend to before that happens. Can anyone guess what that is?¡±

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    The woman was now shaking, desperate for the attention and approval of her master. Attempting politeness, she raised a hand, as another voice spoke out.

    ¡°We need to-¡°

    ¡°DAISY! IT¡¯S MY TURN! I¡¯VE BEEN WAITING VERY PATIENTLY!¡±

    Seizing the chair behind her, she frantically threw it against a wall with such force that it snapped in half, one of the legs embedding itself deeply into the structure. Flipping around, she slammed

    her fists onto the table and screeched.

    ¡°WE NEED TO ELIMINATE THE HEROES AND ADVENTURERS THAT STOPPED ERYX! AND ANY OTHER SOLDIER, ADVENTURER, OR HERO THAT RIVALS THEM IN POWER!¡±

    An amused smile spread across the pale man¡¯s face. He stopped twirling the rose, pressing a thumb against a thorn until it pierced the skin, blood emerging from the wound.

    ¡°I¡¯m so proud of you, Violet. You most of all needed to learn to be more assertive!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re¡­ proud of me¡­?¡± Falling to her knees she began loudly wailing.

    ¡°Daisy, you have a like mind to your darling sister. Do you agree that powerful individuals who aren¡¯t interested in the maiden¡¯s salvation should perish?¡±

    ¡°I do. Eryx was a fool. He thought of his foes as ants beneath his feet. I, on the other hand, believe these capable warriors to be beyond my own talents so that I never veil myself in arrogance. Our household knows better than to belittle the passions and valor of our rivals. Yet, despite the beauty of their valiant efforts, they must either join us or perish before we can begin to humor our own grandiose

    delusions.¡±

    Licking the blood from his thumb, the man looked at the various shadows across the room, both that had spoken as well as others who had remained silent. He grasped their undivided attention

    within the palm of his hand, much like the rose.

    ¡°The end of our convalescence is nigh. Soon we shall emerge from the darkness of Bastogne Manor.¡±

 Chapter 5

    Before Sayko could begin to process her surroundings, the scents of sage, marjoram, and rosemary filled her nose. Several bushels were hanging from the ceiling, wafting their delicious aromas throughout the room. The oak floors and ceiling reminded Sayko of cozy cottage-core photos she had seen on social media, yet none could capture the atmosphere here. Everything had been comfortably worn and spoke to the warm memories of the inhabitants.

    Entering through a small breezeway, they entered a modest living room complete with fireplace. Several armchairs filled the room with large rug between them cushioning a coffee table in the center from scratching up the floor. A fireplace was affixed at the head of the room, a

    mantle lying above it that had several framed black and white photos that depicted a happy family of

    four.

    Feeling one of Celica¡¯s hands grip Sayko¡¯s arm in a reassuring manner, she spoke.

    ¡°It¡¯s not much, but it¡¯s home. We never wanted something extravagant, just enough space for the four of us to be close. Although, while you¡¯ve been asleep, its mostly been just me¡­¡± Her thoughts drifted off as she pondered the last six years.

    Shaking her head, Celica continued the short tour of the humble abode. Sayko didn¡¯t particularly want to interrupt her thoughts, but her curiosity bubbled at what the situation of her new family was. Why was her older ¡®sister¡¯ absent? Where was her ¡®father¡¯?

    Gesturing at the door to an adjoining room, Celica continued.

    ¡°That¡¯s the kitchen and wash basins in there. There¡¯s a backdoor that leads outside to a small garden where I¡¯ve been growing herbs for cooking and trading. The staircase over there to the left leads up to our bedrooms and the bathroom.¡±

    An archaic stone staircase lead up to a second floor, a crude rail affixed to the wall beside it. The steps seemed to be made of granite, dust and ash clinging to their forms. The incline was rather steep compared to modern staircases, but Sayko assumed function trumped form to anyone but a noble in this world.

    ¡°Let me take those boxes from you and we¡¯ll get you upstairs and into bed. I know you¡¯ve only been awake a few hours, but I imagine you¡¯re exhausted nonetheless.¡±

    Scooping up the boxes off Sayko¡¯s lap, Celica stacked them into one of the chairs. Coming back to the wheelchair, she knelt in front of the girl.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to startle you again trying to carry the chair up the stairs, so I¡¯d prefer to carry you¡­ if that¡¯s okay!¡±

    Blinking several times, embarrassment began to set in. She felt pathetic relying on someone for something as basic as going up stairs, having spent her adult life relying only on herself. Yet, she knew

    she physically couldn¡¯t refuse the woman¡¯s kindness, sucking up her pride with a deep breath in.

    ¡°Y-yeah, I don¡¯t think I have much of a choice.¡±

    Gripping the wheelchair¡¯s arm rests, Sayko pulled herself forward into Celica¡¯s arms. As she was lifted out of the chair, she wrapped her arms as tightly as she could muster around her mother¡¯s neck.

    Rising to a standing position, Celica walked ploddingly to the stairs. Stopping for a moment at the base of the steps, she whispered an affirmation into Sayko¡¯s ear.

    ¡°I know it¡¯s probably embarrassing to be carried like this but depending on your loved ones isn¡¯t weakness. Weakness is being too proud to acknowledge when you need help.¡±

    Feeling Sayko¡¯s arms tremble, Celica cautiously went up the stairs as quickly as she could manage, planting each step firmly into the stone. Meanwhile, Sayko desperately tried to blink away tears as her grip weakened, the last of her energy leaving her limbs. Fatigue was already whispering sweet nothings in her ears.

    Reaching the top of the stairs, Celica turned to the first door on the left in the hallway that met them. Seeing that the door was slightly ajar, she nudged it open with the toe of her boot. Inside, a rather quaint room met them. Scuttling over to the bed, Celica freed an arm to quickly throw back the sheets, setting the girl down onto the bed. After pulling up the covers up and under her arms, she took a step back to admire her daughter.

    The room itself was somehow exactly what Sayko expected. Although most of her possessions were modest, it was a moment captured in time for when her body was eight years old. Toys and plush were neatly stacked in a small hamper in the corner, the walls covered in endearing paintings of green pastures, sunshine, and rainbows. Deep down, it was something she would¡¯ve adored as a child, had her parents had the energy for her.

    It promptly caught her eye that despite the lack of use the past eight years, the room was spotless, not a trace of dust. The sheets also smelled fresh; the entire room having been kept clean even though there was no guarantee the occupant would ever return. Not even a stray cobweb had taken up residence in any of the corners.

    Her heart felt pangs of guilt that a stranger now occupied the body of her child, the daughter she had patiently waited years to bring home.

    If I wasn¡¯t such a coward, I¡¯d tell her outright that I¡¯m not Senna. She deserves that much. I¡¯m just a stranger walking into someone else¡¯s life.

    Interrupting the morose thoughts, a rather large yawn escaped her mouth, her eyelids feeling heavy.

    ¡°You must be exhausted from the day you¡¯ve had,¡± Celica chuckled, ¡°Why don¡¯t you take a nap? I¡¯ll make you a lunch and put away your new clothes for you. I also need to write a letter to your sister; she¡¯ll want to visit as soon as she finds out you¡¯re awake.¡±

    ¡°That sounds amazing. I¡¯m sorry that my body is so pathetic¡­¡± Swooping in and putting a hand on Sayko¡¯s face, a sober expression had erased a smile.

    ¡°Neither you nor your body is pathetic. Having you home in exchange for a few months of recovery is the most insignificant price to pay.¡± Unable to think of how to respond, Sayko merely nodded in acknowledgment.

    Are most parents like this?

    ¡°Anyways¡­ I¡¯ll be downstairs. If you need anything at all, don¡¯t be afraid to ask, okay?¡±

    ¡°O-okay¡­¡±

    Stopping at the door, Celica flipped around. Striding over to the toy hamper, she dug through a few trinkets until she finally retrieved a pink rabbit plush from the depths of the container. Bringing it to

    the bed, she extended it towards Sayko.

    ¡°When you were small, this was your favorite stuffed toy, especially when you were sick. You called him Mister Floppit.¡±

    The stuffed animal was maybe a foot long, his ears nearly as long as his body. He wore a grey, three-piece suit and had a small top hat stitched to his head. Two buttons acted as his eyes; one clearly having been resewn on from some childhood mishap.

    ¡°You¡¯ve probably outgrown something like this, but¡­¡± Stars filled Sayko¡¯s eyes as she greedily eyed the rabbit. Her deep, dark secret as a thirty-three-year-old office worker was that her only offline friends were several dozen plushies that she kept around her apartment.

    He¡¯s ADORABLE! He¡¯d easily be seventy-five smackeronis on Metsy!

    This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    ¡°NO! NEVER! He is PERFECT!¡± Her outburst almost making Celica leap out of her skin in surprise.

    ¡°R-really!? Your auntie Reyna made him for you for your sixth birthday. She put a small enchantment in him that helps you drift off to sleep a little bit quicker. Although¡­ I didn¡¯t really want to tell you that as a child since this was my go-to for when you were being fussy about going to bed¡­¡± She turned away, sheepishly.

    Her heart skipped a beat.

    This girl was loved beyond measure.

    Gingerly taking the plush with her weak hands, she clutched him tightly against her chest. True to what Celica said, she began to feel waves of drowsiness wash over her. She somehow doubted the enchantment was particularly strong, more so that exhaustion was finally rearing its ugly head. Celica bent down to kiss Sayko¡¯s forehead, whispering a simple ¡®sleep well, darling,¡± in her ear before a curtain of darkness fell over the room.

    In a darkened lounge that reeked of cigars and brandy, a figure sat motionless, leaning back in an armchair. They remained so still, in fact, that from a distance you¡¯d swear they were a mannequin. The only giveaway that they were alive was the occasional blink as they pondered why they had been called upon by their ¡®monsignor¡¯.

    The figure was lavishly dressed in a suit that looked out of place anywhere but the most avant-garde social event. They were adorned in a mulberry purple suit jacket with gold and white accents and a small, novelty matching top hat atop their choppy, styled hair. The hair itself was a mixture of blonde and black, a strange duality that would seem clashing anywhere other than this person¡¯s head. Their slacks were also a matching mulberry shade, the seam a brilliant gold that accented their outfit well. The lounge itself was illuminated by ghostly crimson lights hung from the ceiling;they emitted a particular hue that was said to disrupt enchanted goggles or glasses, rendering them useless. Yet, if you found yourself an unwilling guest of Bastogne Manor, you generally had far more pressing matters than worrying about your glasses.

    As they patiently waited in silence to be called upon, a woman entered the room from a doorway behind them. She stared for several moments at the motionless figure in the armchair, before slowly withdrawing a syringe from her elaborate, Lolita dress. Nimble fingers then slipped it to be hidden flush with her forearm as she silently crept forward. Her hair was styled like a wavy bob cut, the color a strawberry red that bled into a light pink ombre. The dress was a mixture of pink and black, with a large bow on the back, and fringe running around the hem. Everything about her appearance was striking, turning heads nearly everywhere she went.

    Reaching striking distance, she readied herself to lunge forward at the figure, her scarlet eyes filling with bloodlust. Her mouth watered, and just as she was ready to pounce, her prey spoke.

    ¡°Violet¡­¡±

    Twirling the syringe back into her dress without even a hesitation, the girl smiled widely.

    ¡°Yes? What is it my dearest brother Orchid?¡± Turning to face the girl, an empty smile met her.

    ¡°Everything about you is a juxtaposition, isn¡¯t it? Why are you so desperate to slip a syringe beneath my skin?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not going to drain you like a REGULAR mark! I just want to take a peek¡­¡± she side stepped to his flank, ¡°No, a traipse! A journey, even!¡± She did a mock pirouette, making a dramatic pose with her hands in the air. ¡°To see what makes your clock tick, tock, and even chime!¡±

    ¡°My memories are mere tears washed away by rain; unremarkable fragments unworthy of comment. Besides, those track marks,¡± he gestured at her left arm, ¡°they indicate that you¡¯ve been dabbling more than necessary for your craft.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not just about espionage, it¡¯s about getting to tie a noose around your victim¡¯s neck with their own dirty secrets!¡±

    Before their conversation could continue, the door to a study creaked open, a figure leaning half out to eye the pair.

    ¡°Orchid, I¡¯m ready to speak with you,¡± His silver eyes flashing in the ominous lighting as he spoke.

    ¡°Yes, Monsignor.¡±

    Orchid made a prompt bow before walking to enter the room, Violet scurrying behind him. Without having to cast a glance back, Monsignor called out to Violet.

    ¡°Sweetie, I didn¡¯t invite you. This conversation is between your brother and me.¡± A scowl raced across her face as she folded her arms. She swiftly turned away to leave the lounge, visibly pouting.

    ¡°I never get invited to anything juicy¡­¡± She murmured under her breath.

    Closing the door behind himself, Orchid stood at attention beside two armchairs that were positioned before a massive desk. Many of the walls were lined with bookcases and shelves adorned by weapons, trinkets, and flasks.

    The only windows occupying the room were a set of bay windows directly behind Monsignor¡¯s desk chair. However, these were blackened and barred shut to stop any sunlight or practical use. The curtains, if you could call them that, were long since the victims of moths and time.

    ¡°Take a seat, child.¡± Sliding down into one of the armchairs, Orchid crossed his legs as Monsignor took a seat on the opposite side.

    Smiling, fingers intertwined between both hands, Monsignor spoke.

    ¡°How would you like to visit the city of Enzen?¡±

    Waking up from her nap, Sayko was greeted by Celica with a plate of eggs and diced potatoes on flatbread. It was an otherworldly aroma that caused instant salivation, her taste buds tingling wildly. It

    made the girl wonder when she had last eaten a proper breakfast.

    Still, having the wherewithal to worry about upsetting her stomach, she took her time eating the meal. The restraint it took to not shovel it down after the first bite grew tenfold, tears of joy filling her eyes. There was an aromatic black tea accompanying the meal with notes of cinnamon and lemon in it. Her mother grinned, waiting patiently for her to finish, overjoyed that the food was a rousing success.

    ¡°How long was I asleep?¡± Sayko asked as she passed back an empty wooden plate to Celica.

    She was privately shocked that this entire experience wasn¡¯t an elaborate, lucid dream, expecting to wake up back in the ¡°real world¡±. Yet somehow she wasn¡¯t disappointed about it, either. Truthfully, there wasn¡¯t anything or anyone waiting for her back home.

    ¡°A couple hours, not terribly long. Ah, you have egg on your mouth!¡± She grabbed a cloth napkin she had been keeping on her lap and dabbed the corner of Sayko¡¯s mouth. ¡°I came up and watched you

    sleep for most of it. Around thirty-ish minutes ago you started to toss and mutter in your sleep, so I figured it was time to go make some food.¡±

    ¡°I was muttering in my sleep?¡±

    ¡°Yes, a bit. I couldn¡¯t make out most of it, but it sounded like you were in pain¡­ Or maybe upset about something?¡±

    I wonder what I said? Hopefully it wasn¡¯t something stupid like about PVE smurfs or expense reports¡­

    ¡°I was more so worried that you weren¡¯t going to wake back up. Back then¡­ when Eryx cast that vile curse upon the world, you had gone to bed like any other night, but you didn¡¯t wake up when the

    morning came.¡±

    Sayko¡¯s stomach sank.

    I have to tell her.

    ¡°Who is Eryx¡­? What exactly is this curse?¡± Nearly tripping over her own words trying to hide her rising anxiety.

    Sighing, a distant look filled Celica¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°The long and short of it is, about fifty years ago a kronomancer-¡°

    ¡°Kronomancer?¡± Sayko interrupted, wondering if the title was literal.

    ¡°A mage specializing in time and space magic. This kronomancer was named Eryx, a wandering mage from the northern wastes. He was probably one of the most brilliant minds of the last several centuries, and revolutionized¡­ well¡­ everything.¡±

    ¡°But..?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if anyone really knows why, but one day the fame and praise of revolutionizing the world¡¯s technology wasn¡¯t enough. He wanted to become a god emperor, and when the nations of the continent expressed their disdain for a man made god, he declared war on everyone. At least, that¡¯s the short version.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s really never that simple though, is it?¡± Sayko wondered aloud.

    Staring poignantly for a moment, Celica nodded.

    ¡°Anyways! That¡¯s not something you need to worry about right now. You¡¯ll learn plenty about that later when you eventually attend school again!¡± she paused, a look of guilt on her face, ¡°I don¡¯t want to rush you, but when you feel ready, we¡¯ll see about getting you walking again. We¡¯ll also need to figure out school eventually as well.¡±

    A moment of dread shot it¡¯s hooks through Sayko¡¯s chest.

    Dear god, do I have to experience school all over again!? No, that¡¯s not really the issue, I need to say something.

    ¡°Do you remember how to read or write-¡°

    ¡°Mo¡­ Celica.¡± Sayko said quietly, tears forming in her eyes.

    Sayko¡¯s heart sped up, her throat tightening.

    ¡°It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t remember! You were early on in your education so starting over won¡¯t be a problem!¡±

    ¡°Celica!¡±

    Celica stopped for a moment, caught off guard by Sayko using her given name rather than ¡®mom¡¯.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, angel?¡±

    Tears began to stream down Sayko¡¯s face.

    ¡°I¡¯m not Senna.¡±

 Chapter 6

    Mouth agape at her own revelation, Sayko stared dumbstruck at Celica after confessing the awful truth. It was completely out of character for her to speak up, especially with stakes that high. She hadn¡¯t always been reserved, but sometimes a fiery teenager¡¯s passion gets extinguished the further they travel into adulthood. Her spirit had gone from a bonfire to a flickering ember.

    Celica stared blankly for a moment, unsure of what to say at the outburst. Expecting anger or confusion, Sayko was shocked when she leaned in closer and softly spoke.

    ¡°Senna¡­ what was happening when you were asleep?¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡± Trepidation slowly caressed her neck, threatening to strangle the courage from her throat.

    Fearing being thrown into the street upon revealing the truth, Sayko had privately debated about waiting to drop this bombshell on Celica until she could at least walk. Yet, between guilt and realizing she was completely unable to keep playing the part of a girl that was supposed to be mentally eight years old, she had caved. She wasn¡¯t just a terrible actor, she could feel a millstone of guilt tied around her.

    ¡°I dreamt¡­ no,¡± she shook her head, balling her fists in determination. ¡°I was a woman named Sayko Ashcaster on a planet called Earth. I say ¡®was¡¯ because I died there last night in an accident. When I woke up, I was in Senna¡¯s body. I feel like something happened in-between, but¡­¡±

    She trailed off, realizing that a growing fog loomed in her memory of what happened between

    her death and being catapulted into this body. The conversation with the mysterious entity was swiftly vanishing, only a faint recollection of a starry, endless sky remaining.

    ¡°I don¡¯t really remember what it was. You clearly loved Senna more than life itself, and I don¡¯t

    have the heart to continue this charade. It¡¯s already bad enough I stole her body, I¡¯m not going to steal her life and family, too.¡±

    Tears filled her eyes, her vision growing blurry. Her stomach churned as more word vomit began to work its way forcefully out of her body.

    ¡°¡­¡±

    Although Celica¡¯s silence was somewhat unnerving, Sayko couldn¡¯t stop herself from continuing.

    ¡°And I don¡¯t know what part of this is the cruelest! The fact that fate almost let me have the life I always wanted or that I¡¯m now puppeting a family¡¯s daughter and getting their hopes up that she¡¯s alive! This entire thing is a sick fucking joke!¡±

    Celica said nothing, her eyes clouded as she digested every word that Sayko had blurted out. Sayko sniffled, her vision blurring as she tried to decipher what emotions could possibly be passing through her ¡®mother¡¯s¡¯ head. It was then that something even more surprising happened.

    Pulling her chair even closer to the bed, Celica retrieved a white handkerchief from her pocket. She quickly wiped the stream of tears away, followed by a quick dab of Sayko¡¯s nose. Setting the cloth down on a nightstand, she took a deep breath and began to speak.

    ¡°I believe you, Sayko. I don¡¯t doubt for a moment that what you say is true. However,¡­¡±

    Staring in disbelief, expecting the very worst, Sayko held her breath for what could possibly come next.

    ¡°In my heart of hearts, I believe you are Senna, even if you don¡¯t believe it yet.¡±

    ¡°But there¡¯s no way-"

    Gently putting a hand over Sayko¡¯s mouth, she made a ¡®hush¡¯ signal with the other hand. ¡°Please, let me finish.¡± Although there was no anger in her tone, Sayko knew better than to interrupt.

    ¡°The reason I know you aren¡¯t lying is, first and foremost, you¡¯re clearly not an eight-year-old that¡¯s been asleep for six years, let alone fourteen. You have the knowledge and mannerisms of an adult. Which begs the obvious question; how could you possibly have gathered that knowledge while asleep?¡±

    Unfazed by Celica already having put the pieces together, Sayko quietly waited for her to continue, the hand now removed from her mouth.

    ¡°What¡¯s more, there¡¯s so little we know about the sleeping sickness. We know that it was a powerful curse that separated soul from body, but we had no idea where the soul went while separated. It¡¯d make a lot of sense as to why the sleepers take years to wake if the soul becomes tethered to a new body.¡±

    ¡°That being said¡­ The reason I believe you are my Senna is a little more convoluted. Did they mention anything about Ject Mutatem to you after you woke up?¡±

    Remembering the awkward elven cleric Artemis, Sayko nodded.

    ¡°A bit, but I was having a panic attack during the explanation, so the details are fuzzy.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­ basically, inside all living things is a spiritual anchor for our souls known as the ject. If the ject becomes corrupted, one of two things can happen. Your physical body will either mutate and twist into a mindless monster or you¡¯ll become an empty husk of a person, your own humanity erased, left to wander to find any tangible meaning to being alive.¡±

    ¡°As to ¡®why¡¯ this happens¡­ well¡­¡± she lifted a second cup of tea off the nightstand to take a sip, clearing her throat before continuing.

    ¡°There seem to be multiple ways this can happen. Forbidden dark arts exist that either extract the soul from the ject, or to harvest the ject itself. Likewise, there are creatures known as ¡®echoes¡¯ that are phantoms capable of possessing an empty ject, desperately seeking a host so they can interact with the physical plane.¡±

    ¡°Although it¡¯s certainly not impossible for a stray soul to inhabit a ject without triggering Ject Mutatem, it¡¯s just not likely. What¡¯s more, all accounts of these possessions have one thing in common. Even if the possessed person is family, those who encounter the victim say they emit the aura of a stranger, no longer feeling familiar or familial.¡±

    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    Scooping up Mister Floppit, Celica stared at him absentmindedly, pondering her own words. Sayko said nothing, trying to digest the conversation, paranoid of what would come next.

    ¡°Here¡¯s where it gets ¡®convoluted¡¯. You obviously don¡¯t really fit into any of those abnormal cases. Even if your mannerisms are different, even though you¡¯re clearly carrying weight from the life you were living while asleep, you still feel like family; I still see Senna beneath the surface. And, EVEN if you truly aren¡¯t¡­ My own selfishness is willing to disregard that, because whether your mind is or isn''t a child, you have been born into a brand new world and would fare no better than a child. My conscience won''t allow that."

    More tears burned in Sayko¡¯s eyes, turning her face away to hide the self-imposed shame she felt. It hadn¡¯t even been a full day, but the walls she had been building inside herself were crumbling, holes appearing as floodwaters tried to push through. Something inside her had changed the moment she woke up in the infirmary.

    ¡°You really think that I could be her?¡± Sayko replied, unable to bring herself to look Celica in the eyes.

    ¡°Yes, I really do.¡±

    Although it assuaged some of her guilt to hear Celica¡¯s affirmation, the ever-growing gravity of the situation finally sunk in. She now had to grapple with the facts as they had presented themselves.

    -Sayko Ashcaster died.

    -Even if her body was intact, there wasn¡¯t a life on Earth worth going back for.

    -There was a slim chance that her soul had truly belonged to this body all along, meaning her

    former life was possibly a cosmic level mishap.

    -Lastly, as Yuna had pointed out, this was a chance to start all over.

    The final fact once more filled her chest with the same familiar determination that pushed her to confess the truth to Celica. Very few people were ever given the chance to start over.

    I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m going to admit this to myself, but I want to be this woman¡¯s daughter.

    ¡°Now that I¡¯ve gotten everything off my chest... If you can look past the amnesia, or that I might not even be the original Senna, I¡­ I¡¯d gladly be your daughter.¡±

    There. I said it. Please, whatever gods are listening, let this life be different. I know it¡¯s selfish,

    but let me have this one chance to start over.

    ¡°And my answer will always remain the same. Of course, I will be your mother. Six years without you was far too long.¡±

    ¡°Are we being selfish ignoring the circumstances surrounding this?¡±

    Drawing closer, Celica wrapped her arms around Sayko, kissing her head before whispering in her ear.

    ¡°Darling girl¡­ Life is fleeting, and we are all one wrong step away from being the playthigns of gods and devils alike, often for the worse. If we are to ever be happy, we shouldn¡¯t be afraid of being selfish for seizing these glimmers of happiness when they present themselves.¡±

    In turn, Sayko wrapped her arms around Celica, involuntary sobs wracking her body. Through death, she had found new life, a fairytale daydream that could erase the scars on her soul. Yuna¡¯s words held water, and if she was going to start a new life, she wanted to do it right, refusing to live a lie.

    Goodbye, Sayko. I¡¯m sorry if I ever let you down. It doesn¡¯t matter if I¡¯m the lost soul of Senna or merely just taking her place, this is who I am now. I don¡¯t have to carry our pain anymore.

    ¡°Mom¡­ We can say goodbye to Sayko Ashcaster. My name is Senna Lorenz.¡±

    --

    ¡°Enzen?¡± Orchid shot back, a slight note of incredulity in his voice, tilting his head to the side.

    ¡°Yes, the one and only! Second largest city in Hesperia and a royal seat. They¡¯ve been a shining beacon of restoration and growth since the war ended.¡± Monsignor twirled a fountain pen between his fingers as he spoke, mildly amused by his own suggestion.

    ¡°Forgive my tone, I¡¯m merely ignorant of why you would choose that particular city.¡±

    ¡°Several reasons, my child. We aren¡¯t the only ones seeing power vacuums in the wake of this war. Countless people died. Many noble houses have been erased. Entire industries were left in shambles. Six years isn¡¯t enough time to fully recover from a world-shattering war. Sometimes a nation may take generations to heal their wounds. Sometimes a wound is deep enough that it never heals.¡±

    Setting the pen down, Monsignor continued.

    ¡°It¡¯s long overdue for us to reemerge from the shadows to build connections, to infiltrate major cities to spread our influence, and to grow our numbers. We must be there to guide the hands that rebuild nations to help reshape things more befitting of Her¡­ divinity.¡±

    ¡°Understandable. How would you have me move forward, Monsignor?¡±

    Pulling out a leather-bound package sealed with twine from under the desk, Monsignor carefully set it on the table. It was rather nondescript in appearance, other than being dark burgundy and rather thick.

    ¡°There is a dossier of notable traders, nobles, movers, and shakers. Most have either fallen on hard times or are trying to recover in the wake of the war. I¡¯ve left notes about suggestions of who to approach first, and who will be easiest to wrap around your finger. Plus¡­ your natural ¡®talents¡¯ will aid greatly in this matter. Money is no mere object for our house; those unable to be swayed by your ability can often be bought.¡±

    Standing from the chair, he turned to face the blackened window.

    ¡°Would you like my earnest advice, child?¡±

    ¡°Always and forever, Monsignor.¡± Orchid responded, his tone an impossible mix of monotone

    and dulcet.

    ¡°First impressions truly do matter. Once you¡¯ve secured a place to reside, throw an event to announce your ¡®noble¡¯ house, but be the most gracious host they¡¯ve ever encountered. Dazzle them yet always remain seemingly humble. A faux humility amongst fools with more money than sense is the deadliest tool you can wield.¡±

    ¡°Next, make friends with the town guard. Win them over and stroke their egos and misplaced prejudices. The sooner the better, otherwise they¡¯re less likely to look the other way when it matters most. Lastly, and this is the most important part.¡±

    Returning to the desk, he revealed a stern expression.

    ¡°They are not lying when they say patience is a virtue. The best laid plans often take weeks, months, or even years.¡±

    ¡°Do I look like Violet or Daisy? I¡¯m no damaged stem. I may like to dabble in debauchery every so often, but I know how to keep a lid on it when it counts.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I agree, but you are still so young. Don¡¯t forget to continually hone your deadlier talent. Someday you will face veterans of the war, and they are a ferocious breed.¡±

    Rising to his feet once more, Orchid gave a deep bow to his lord. He lifted the dossier and clutched it to his breast as if it was the most priceless treasure in the world, fingers nearly digging into the leather. His eyes glistened as a smile spread slowly across his face.

    ¡°I will not fail you, Monsignor. I¡¯ll pack the essentials and leave tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°Good boy. For the war-mother, Caer. May She walk once more.¡±

    ¡°For the war-mother, and for the manor. We have dwelt in shadow and shame for far too long.¡±

    ¡°Go now, I¡¯ll inform your siblings of the news. Revel, for you are now the anchor we cast in a treacherous, angry sea.¡±

 Chapter 7

    The weight of guilt removed, Senna felt she could move forward with her new life. Although Celica¡¯s response surprised her, she realized at that moment that they were both trying to make the most of an otherwise preposterous situation. Leaving behind the baggage of her past life wasn¡¯t going to be easy, but she promised herself not to squander this new lease on life.

    After the final tears were wrung from both their eyes, Celica insisted on hearing about Earth and the life Senna had lived there. Her awe of the technological advancements was only outdone by the shock she expressed that magic and monsters didn¡¯t exist.

    ¡°How can you say that magic isn¡¯t real!? You have handheld devices that let you access every archive that¡¯s ever existed! You get news from every corner of the planet in seconds! You have these ¡®booms¡¯ that can destroy a city overnight!¡±

    ¡°I mean¡­¡± Awkwardly chuckling, Senna nonchalantly put a hand to her chin. ¡°I could see how those things can be seen as a sort of ¡®magic¡¯, but it¡¯s all science. Those things aren¡¯t innate to a person like this world, they took thousands of years of inherited knowledge and development to reach. Even in the last hundred and twenty years we¡¯ve seen things progress faster than the ten-thousand before it.¡±

    ¡°I cannot imagine cities where every building disappears into the sky or that ten million or more people have crowded comfortably into a single space.¡± A look of wonder filled Celica¡¯s eyes and she pondered such a world existing.

    ¡°We¡¯ve even been to space and sent machines beyond the solar system that send us pictures of distant planets and stars.¡± Senna remarked casually.

    It was dawning on Senna how impressive the accomplishments of Earth were in comparison to a society that was probably nearing its first industrial age. In turn, Celica spoke of the accomplishments of magic, and that it almost always held hands with science, albeit sciences that simply do not exist on her home planet.

    Things like running water, sewage, and magically powered lighting had been spreading to all but the most rural villages. Primitive forms of heating and air conditioning using stones made from condensed mana had even begun to appear in the houses of the wealthy. Senna internally fist pumped over the prospect of indoor plumbing, recalling an unfortunate incident while camping in her past life.

    Before they knew it, the sun had nearly set as Celica grabbed a small lamp to place on Senna¡¯s nightstand. Through the window, homes across the neighborhood were beginning to light up, the city slowly coming to life. The embers in her soul flickered, a nearly foreign sensation was filling her chest that hadn¡¯t been there since she was a teenager.

    ¡°Did you need more food, angel? It¡¯s getting late.¡±

    No matter how amazing the food had been, not only was she not particularly hungry, she knew better than to push her luck with a freshly awoken body.

    ¡°No, I¡¯m still full from what you made,¡± she said, shaking her head, before eagerly adding, ¡°Plus, I just wanna keep talking to you all night!¡±

    Beaming at her daughter, Celica laughed and shook her head as well.

    ¡°I know you¡¯re eager to learn more, but you¡¯re a kid again and recovering from an illness. You

    need sleep.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s true¡­ Can I have Mister Floppit at least? He¡¯s amazing¡­¡± She turned her head away in embarrassment as a sheepish smile spread across her face.

    Snagging the rabbit plush from off the end of the bed, Celica placed a hand over his chest. Sigils of light appeared in front of her hand as she whispered an incantation, energy flowing outward from her palm into his body. With the wave of a hand, the sigils vanished, as she extended the rabbit towards Senna.

    ¡°The enchantment has grown weak, so I poured some of my own mana into the core to revitalize the spell. It should be a lot stronger now.¡±

    Taking the plush from her mother¡¯s hands, Senna clutched it to her chest. It had grown warm to the touch due to the exchange of mana, the enchantment much stronger now as drowsiness began to overtake her.

    ¡°Good¡­night¡­¡± Her eyelids drooped, as Celica leaned forward and kissed her forehead.

    ¡°Goodnight, darling, and welcome home¡­¡±

    The incoming tide of sleep was inescapable as the room faded away; darkness was drawn over her eyes like the blanket of night.

    --

    Her dreams were pleasant affairs, running through meadows under the summer sun, eating watermelon and meat skewers on the shore of a lake, all the while surrounded by loved ones, even if their faces weren¡¯t familiar yet.

    Turning away to look down the beach of the unfamiliar shore, she peered at an unknown dark-haired woman sitting alone in the distance beneath a parasol. Curious about the stranger on the beach, some invisible force compelling her to investigate, Senna rose to her feet and quietly slipped away.

    Walking down the shore, warm sands met her bare feet. Gulls could be heard nearby, calling out to one another, ready to fight over the scraps that her group would inevitably give them. Trees met the shoreline on all sides, their branches swaying slightly in a gentle, southern breeze. In the distance, small boats with fishermen casually skated across the surface of the lake.

    She approached the mysterious woman and sat down in the sand about ten feet away. The woman¡¯s hair was up in a tall ponytail, the color a rich chocolate that complimented her pale skin. She had a casual summer outfit of a tank top and shorts, her hands occupied by a tablet.

    ¡°No Wi-Fi at all! Imagine choosing a planet without any internet!¡± She tossed the tablet over her shoulder into some bushes, not even giving it a second glance.

    ¡°Why would there be internet Sayko!? This isn¡¯t Earth anymore!¡± Senna responded, holding her sides as she laughed.

    ¡°I ¡®unno, but now I can¡¯t watch the Finite Fantasy dev stream!¡±

    Her dark eyes narrowed, trying her best to pout despite the ridiculous nature of the scene. It was a surreal experience, knowing that she was speaking to an echo of her former self, physically juxtaposed across from her.

    ¡°Couldn¡¯t you just¡­ I don¡¯t know, manifest it? You¡¯re just a memory and this is a dream, isn¡¯t

    anything possible?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the thing, babes! It is just a dream, but it¡¯s your dream. I¡¯m just a memory of you, minus the cute blue hair. I can¡¯t believe there are worlds where you can just have BLUE hair!¡±

    She hadn¡¯t really acknowledged it before, but her appearance had changed dramatically since arriving. Gingerly grasping a lock of hair, Senna admired the navy-blue hue.

    ¡°You look just like your momma!¡± Sayko grinned, already having long forgotten the pouting or about missing a video game dev stream.

    Senna closed the gap between herself and her past self, taking a seat beside Sayko.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I let you down. I should¡¯ve aimed higher with my life¡­¡±

    ¡°None. Of. That.¡± Sayko gently ¡®bopped¡¯ the top of Senna¡¯s head with a light karate chop. ¡°This is the final time I¡¯ll let you acknowledge me. Besides, they¡¯re waiting for you, and when you wake up, you get to start your path to rehabilitation.¡±

    Tilting her head to look up the beach, Senna watched as the group of people waved and called her name. Knowing it was time to return and wake up, she rose to her feet and brushed the hair out of her eyes.

    ¡°Learn some cool spells for me! And kill some monsters!¡± Sayko shouted as her transformed

    self, Senna, ran off.

    ¡°I will!!¡± Senna shouted back, an expression of joy on her face.

    --

    The chorus of morning met Senna¡¯s ears through an open window, as the sounds of people and birds filled the air outside. Sunlight shone through the room, illuminating the space as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes.

    Scanning the room, she noticed a bell on her nightstand with a small note that said ¡°ring when you¡¯re awake! (Or if your arms are too weak, just yell!)¡±

    Chuckling, Senna clasped the handle of the bell and feebly shook it, a surprisingly crisp note to the clapper as it rang out against the body. About thirty or so seconds passed before Celica could be heard coming upstairs and into the room. She was wearing a tan apron with a pair of gardening gloves in the front pocket, her hair pulled up in a messy bun.

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    ¡°Morning sleepy head! How¡¯d you sleep? Did Mister Floppit do the trick?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s probably the best sleep I¡¯ve ever had, he¡¯s a miracle wo-¡° Just then, an enormous yawn caught Senna off guard.

    ¡°I thought recharging him would do the trick!¡± Celica responded, a giggle following her words.

    ¡°It really did,¡± fighting off another yawn, Senna eyed Celica¡¯s outfit and raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°Doing some early morning gardening?¡±

    ¡°Yes! Breakfast is almost ready, I wanted to pick a few fresh herbs for it. It¡¯ll be eggs, potatoes, and some toast. After, once your food settles, an acquaintance is coming by to help get us going with your physical therapy!¡±

    ¡°Were we gonna have me start by balancing on crutches or something?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll do basic exercises like that, yes, but there are magics that can stimulate the muscles to help with strengthening them. Court healers use magics like this on Aporis Abjection victims so their muscles don¡¯t turn to dust while sleeping.¡±

    ¡°I just hope it doesn¡¯t hurt¡­¡±

    A small grimace arose on Celica¡¯s face.

    ¡°Unfortunately, it¡¯s not a particularly pleasant experience. My arm was badly injured after a

    battle with a gang of bandits, once upon a time. I wanted to get back to my guild duties, so I went through the same kind of therapy for my arm. It¡¯s not the worst thing I¡¯ve experienced, but it certainly wasn¡¯t enjoyable.¡±

    An involuntary gulp swept down Senna¡¯s throat as she pondered her mother¡¯s words. Yet, she also didn¡¯t want to spend the next year trying to get back into shape while also juggling her education. Not wanting the apprehension to consume her decision making, she shook her head.

    ¡°That¡¯s fine, I¡¯ll do whatever it takes. Plus, I have to go to school eventually, right? I don¡¯t wanna tackle both school and physical therapy.¡±

    ¡°Darling, I wouldn¡¯t ask that of you regardless. First and foremost is getting you healthy and walking again. I can teach you to read and write in your downtime, so that¡¯s not too much of a concern. Besides, school will depend on what you want to do with your life, so we can worry about that later.¡±

    This comment hit Senna like a ton of bricks. She¡¯d have to rethink her life path all over again, and in a developing world like this one, that could be any numerous trades or careers.

    As long as I¡¯m not stuck in a cubicle again or as a bored housewife.

    ¡°Is being an adventurer out of the question?¡± She responded, quite sincerely.

    ¡°No, not at all,¡± Celica replied, mildly taken aback. ¡°I won¡¯t ever romanticize it, it¡¯s an extremely difficult life, depending on the path you take. It¡¯s also dangerous in many regards. Although¡­¡± She trailed off, the tops of her cheeks turning slightly red. ¡°It makes me happy that both my daughters have an interest in their parents¡¯ line of work.¡±

    ¡°After spending my former adult life stuck inside at a desk all day crunching numbers so that my manager could get a raise and have a nicer life than me, I think I want to take more risks this time around.¡±

    Wandering over to the window, Celica peered out at the neighborhood below.

    ¡°I can appreciate that feeling¡­ I love our little home, but with your father, Petrus, missing and your sister, Phaedra, on the frontier, I¡¯ve had to be close to home and I can¡¯t lie, sometimes I miss the wind on my face and seeing where commissions took me...¡±

    Turning back to face Senna, she revealed a look of joy. ¡°But now that you¡¯re awake, my days will be busy again! Speaking of, I don¡¯t want breakfast to burn, so I¡¯ll be right back!¡±

    Darting out of the room, Celica¡¯s footsteps echoed down the stairs. Meanwhile, Senna pulled herself up in bed to sit upright against her pillows. She was still wearing the hospital gown from yesterday and couldn¡¯t wait to get out of it and into some real clothing. Likewise, she was hoping to wash her face and tie up her hair, as the warm breeze flittered into the room.

    Celica returned several minutes later with a plate of fried potatoes, eggs, and a slice of buttered toast in one hand, and a small bowl and washcloth in the other. As if she had read Senna¡¯s mind, she set down the breakfast on the nightstand first, setting the small basin and cloth in the girl¡¯s lap.

    ¡°I assumed you¡¯d want to clean up with a washcloth first. After breakfast, we can get you out of that ugly gown and into something comfortable.¡±

    The pair made small talk after Senna cleaned herself off and ate breakfast.

    As before, the food was incredible, leaving her mouth and eyes a watering mess. The eggs were fluffy, a perfect midway point of neither dry nor wet, seasoned with salt, garlic, and a touch of butter. The potatoes had been lightly crisped, giving them a delightful crunch to every bite, while the toast was made on the best wheat bread that had ever graced her taste buds. It took the strength and restraint of a dragon to not ask for seconds, still not wanting to tempt fate with a case of violent illness.

    ¡°Before we get you changed, there is something I would like to say¡­¡± Celica had a somewhat serious note to her voice.

    Senna carefully set aside the plate on the nightstand, curious as to what spurred the shift in

    tone.

    ¡°I would be careful mentioning the life you led while asleep to others. Although most would shrug it off as either a novel concept or a quaint dream, there are those who would want to probe your brain for secrets and answers,¡± she paused, before finishing her thought, ¡°worlds with weapons like yours that anyone can master or use¡­ that is deadly information.¡±

    Not doubting her words for a moment, Senna nodded in agreement.

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep quiet about it unless you tell me it¡¯s safe.¡±

    Afterwards, Celica brought a cup of tea and helped her out of the gown. Moments later, she found herself wearing a forest green tunic top with a simple pair of sandy brown shorts, with some rather plain black socks.

    ¡°I can¡¯t lie, I love this outfit!¡± Senna proclaimed, marveling at the outfit. ¡°This isn¡¯t really that

    much different than something I¡¯d wear in the past when I wanted to get comfortable!¡± She extended her arms, her hands not quite reaching the end of the sleeves.

    Celica sipped her own tea, saying nothing but the warmth in her eyes spoke louder than words. However, the moment was short lived as a knock at the door downstairs could be heard.

    ¡°Oh, stars! That¡¯s probably Cyrrus!¡±

    Carefully setting her tea down, she set off downstairs to answer the door. Not knowing what to

    expect, butterflies suddenly filled Senna¡¯s stomach and lungs.

    What is physical therapy like for a world that has magic? Is this going to be painful!?

    Moments later, Celica reemerged in the room followed by a slender man wearing a simple gray cloak over his ashy colored tunic shirt.

    ¡°Take a seat, Cy.¡± She motioned towards the chair she had just been occupying. ¡°This is my daughter Senna. She just woke up yesterday from the sleeping sickness.¡±

    Shifting her body to face the man, she was immediately greeted by tall, fox like ears on his head. He had a rich reddish sepia tone to his hair, which was pulled back into a short ponytail. His skin was a warm bronze color that matched his hazel eyes. He seemed somewhat athletic in build as well, making Senna wonder if he had been a field cleric unlike Artemis.

    ¡°Hello child, my name is Cyrrus, but you can call me Cy if you¡¯d like.¡± He had a warm tone to his voice, seemingly a touch soft spoken.

    ¡°Hello, I¡¯m Senna Lorenz, nice to meet you!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know how much your mother told you, but I am a former field medic that has taken up house calls and physical therapy for disabled folk around Enzen. Although it¡¯s no surprise at all that you can¡¯t walk, my magic should vastly speed up the process of getting you back on your feet and your muscles recovered.¡±

    Her nerves getting the better of her, Senna had to ask.

    ¡°Forgive my ignorance, but¡­ What will you be doing?¡±

    Pulling the chair closer to her bed, he began to explain.

    ¡°As a cleric, most of my magic is based around healing, calming, and curing maladies. The spell I¡¯ll be using is known as ¡®laciel¡¯. With most magic, it¡¯s a balancing act of picturing the result you want and channeling the mana into that desired shape or purpose. In this case, I¡¯ll be channeling healing mana into your legs to jump start the process of muscle regrowth.¡±

    Nodding along, Senna raised a hand.

    ¡°I¡¯m assuming this isn¡¯t going to be an overnight treatment?¡±

    Chuckling, Cy shook his head. ¡°Not by any means. Ordinarily, it could be three to twelve months of daily physical therapy to get someone back to functioning normally. With this, it¡¯ll cut it down to one to three months.¡±

    Hesitating for a moment, he continued.

    ¡°It¡¯ll be painful to jolt the muscles back into recovery. After the next session, we can start having you practice with crutches, but for this first session, it¡¯ll be bed rest all day, you hear me?¡±

    Nodding once again, Senna gritted her teeth and smiled awkwardly at Celica.

    ¡°Am I too old to hold your hand for this?¡± A mildly pitiful tone left her mouth.

    ¡°You¡¯ll never be too old for that.¡± Celica responded, striding over to intertwine her fingers with

    Senna¡¯s.

    ¡°Give me a couple minutes to establish a mana channel. Afterwards, we can begin.¡± Cy said, rising from the chair and walking to the end of the bed.

    Downing some tea to help quench a suddenly parched throat, Senna began to mentally prepare herself. Watching Cy prepare his magic kept her mind off what was about to come, as three overlapping sigils appeared in front of his hands. Unlike many sigils that had been white so far, this particular sigil was gold, fading into a reddish copper towards the ends.

    As he finished mumbling an incantation, the overlapping sigils floated motionless in the air a couple feet above the bed. Cy shifted to the side of the sigils, and watched as several tethers of light emerged from the sigils, seamlessly embedding into the back of his hands. Once the tethers seemed secure, he extended hands forward, and a pair of gold symbols with intricate patterns in the center appeared over each hand.

    ¡°Okay Senna¡­ Take a deep breath and let me know when you¡¯re ready.¡±

    Celica silently watched as Senna slowly inhaled, holding the breath for several seconds, before sharply exhaling.

    ¡°I¡¯m ready, doc.¡±

    ¡°Wonderful! Let¡¯s begin.¡±

    Pencil thin rays of light sprung forward from his palms and cascaded light around her legs that seemed to absorb into her body like water into a sponge. At first Senna merely felt warmth spreading up her legs. Then, the moment she started to relax, that¡¯s when it struck.

    Muscle spasms began racing up and down her legs and into her waist. The spell was forcing the muscles to contract and relax, repeatedly. Clenching her teeth, fists balled, she

    cried out in pain.

    ¡°FUUUUUUUUUUUUUU-¡°

 Chapter 8

    Amidst the cawing of crows and the baying of distant scavengers, Orchid raised an eyebrow at the abandoned grasslands that hadn¡¯t yet been reclaimed by nearby farming communities. Abandoned farmsteads littered the landscape, nature and monsters moving in where mortals had once dwelt. A tavern in the last town had warned him to take the longer route south instead of east, but he wasn¡¯t particularly fussed by their guidance.

    A jovial looking bartender grimaced about Orchid insisting on taking more treacherous path, trying to warn him that a lone noble dressed so extravagantly would be picked off the highway within the first night.

    ¡°Lad, I mennit with all respect due and the like, but Cahalla Highway passes through badlands. Nearly all the good folk young n¡¯ healthy enough to leave, left. Yer lucky if bandits are the ¡®uns that spot yuh first in that garish outfit.¡±

    ¡°Your concern is noted, dearest elder. I tire of these dusty, rural settings and want to reach my destination as soon as possible, brigands or no.¡±

    Scoffing at the dust and wear that were quickly accumulating on his shoes, his one regret was not being competent enough with horses to ride such a long distance. Monsignor had offered a carriage, but they would¡¯ve had to hide the emblem of house Bastogne, which Orchid found disrespectful to his station. Instead, he figured that the fresh air of the road would benefit him after being holed up for several years.

    Disregarding the inconvenience of it all, he tried to view the affair as a character-building experience, which had always felt like a roundabout way of saying ¡°traumatic¡±. Enzen was still a couple of weeks away, so he was hoping that at least the journey would become more¡­ eventful. It had been quite some time since he had gotten to flex the forbidden arts.

    A trunk full of all his possessions floated behind him, a particularly handy levitation spell holding them aloft. The trunk itself was also enchanted to have a pocket dimension for storing things inside, letting him bring a vast wardrobe and moderate fortune with him.

    ¡°Imagine these folks being so lazy as to not already have this land repopulated and restored,¡± he mumbled aloud, uncaring about whether an audience could receive his words and more enthralled with hearing his own voice. ¡°Lazy ingrates should feel grateful they survived. Move on already.¡±

    Aside from the sounds of nature, the plains running parallel to Cahalla Highway were eerily still. Not even a spring breeze was present to give the sea of flora its picturesque movement. On the one hand, the old man wasn¡¯t wrong that Orchid stuck out like a sore thumb, but on the bright side, unless an ambush had already been laid, any movement could be seen coming for hundreds of feet.

    It was then it occurred to him: his own feet weren¡¯t making that telltale crunching of leather against dirt and gravel. His wandering thoughts let him stray right into someone¡¯s snare, knowing they counted on the monotony of the path to let their prey tune out and let their senses dull.

    An annoyed sigh fell off his lips as Orchid called out, his voice somewhat muffled by a dome of deafening that had been cast over the section of road.

    ¡°Very clever¡­ But I¡¯ve got places to be and I¡¯m not so chuffed to be held up by vermin.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯tcha know this road belongs to our gang, pretty boy? Maybe you should show us some respect and pay the toll.¡± A hissing voice revealed itself behind his back. ¡°Yeh don¡¯t got a horse or carriage, but that trunk o¡¯ yours lights up in my eye like a beacon in the dark. Only a noble can afford luggage quite that fine.¡±

    ¡°Well yes, you¡¯d be correct that my station is noble, but my blood is just as common as yours, thief. I was adopted by the most gracious of benefactors who prevented me from being like you.¡± As he finished the sentence, Orchid¡¯s eyes narrowed as invisible tears of vitriol poured from them.

    ¡°Thief?! Outrageous! Boys, didja hear tha¡¯? It¡¯s like he doesn¡¯t know the service we provide.¡± Feigning outrage, the bandit leader turned towards one of his compatriots.

    Slowly turning to face his aggressors, Orchid saw about six bandits lightly armed. One in back held a loaded crossbow, one was dual wielding daggers, another two held worn sabers that were likely stolen off corpses of soldiers from a nearby battlefield, one caster whose hands were at the ready, and the leader who had a short sword secured to his belt.

    Said leader was a gaunt man with leathery, sun kissed skin that had seen years of labor and hard times, with one of his eyes clearly being magical in nature. The eye was a silver sphere with an ¡°iris¡± that was shining red, likely used for detecting enchantments.

    Orchid responded nonchalantly, as if bored. ¡°I¡¯ll give you one opportunity to walk away. I highly recommend you seize this generous gift of another chance.¡±

    ¡°I survived the war, lad. I won¡¯t even sweat over yeh.¡±

    Casually rolling up his sleeves one by one, Orchid¡¯s face twisted into a hideous wide smile.

    ¡°I want to taste your tears, old man.¡±

    --

    The first session of physical therapy was hell. After twenty-five minutes of muscle spasms, hot flashes, and cold sweats, she was left panting and exhausted. Worse yet, the pain didn¡¯t slacken even after several more follow-up sessions, but she grit her teeth and pressed on.

    A little more than two weeks had passed when Senna found herself sitting up in bed and grasping her crutches. Her palms immediately began to sweat as she pushed herself up to a standing position, letting some of the weight carry down to her thin legs. Her grip quivered for a moment while she steadied herself, before limping across the room towards the hamper that held her plush toys.

    Hearing footsteps in the distance, she steadily rotated herself to face the bed once more, walking slowly back towards where she started. Stopping at the bed, she let herself breathe for a moment, repeating the path again, her exercise regimen to help work leg muscles between sessions.

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    As she turned towards the bed again, she saw her mother waiting in the doorway, a glint of anxiety in her eyes.

    ¡°Hey there, mama!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t overdo it, please! You haven¡¯t even had your breakfast, why don¡¯t you wait until after that? I worry about you getting lightheaded¡­¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, promise! I don¡¯t wanna make you worry, but I¡¯m losing my mind spending most of my day in bed¡­ even if I am using my downtime to learn to read and write.¡±

    ¡°I think in a couple more weeks I¡¯ll let you take some laps around the cul-de-sac or to the park up the road. I just don¡¯t want you to feel rushed and accidentally hurt yourself.¡±

    ¡°Okie dokie, I¡¯ll be good and eat first.¡± Her half sarcastic tone made Celica smile as she made her way to the bed, the feet of the crutches clacking on the floorboards,

    Moments later Celica brought a tray, an essential tool of the last several weeks for both meals and books, to set over Senna¡¯s lap. Placing a plate brimming with crisped potato wedges, scrambled eggs, sausages, and toast bringing up the side, the girl nearly drooled in anticipation.

    As far as Senna was concerned the food was either laced with magic or drugs and she didn¡¯t care which. It was the best eating she could ever remember considering a special occasion dinner was an egg and green onion in a cup ramen. Not waiting for the faint wisps of steam to disperse, she dug in, eyes watering as the flavor crashed through her mouth.

    The scrambled eggs hadn¡¯t changed since her arrival, but yesterday sausage had been added to the mix. Each bite was indescribably juicy with a hint of spice, the toast a perfect tan of brown glazed with a mixture of butter, egg, and garlic salt that was a medley of crisp and soft. Tenderly forking a mix of sausage, potato, and egg between the slices, the makeshift breakfast sandwich nearly brought tears to her eyes.

    ¡°Howy shit, dis is gweat!¡± She said through a mouthful of food, a look of joy on her face.

    Laughing, Celica put a hand on Senna¡¯s head.

    ¡°Chew first, no talking with a mouth full of food!¡±

    Senna forced out a ¡®sowwy¡¯ through a half full mouth, gulping her food down with a swig of water. Clearing her throat, she turned to Celica.

    ¡°Once my food settles I¡¯m going to do a few more laps around the room and then study. I wanna get comfortable with reading so I can start learning more about our world.¡±

    Senna had learned that their planet was referred to as Messaris; ¡°messa¡± being an ancient word for ¡®planet¡¯, ¡°ris¡± meaning space. In addition to this, she learned that despite the fact that several languages exist on Messaris, every major nation¡¯s official language was a derivative of the same ancient source, gifted to them by the god Ves¡¯ra, who governed the concepts of ¡®order¡¯ and ¡®law¡¯. Regional dialects and differences existed, but most major cities used this common tongue known as ¡°Vesran¡±.

    According to apocryphal accounts, the mortal races all spoke in different tongues, unable to understand one another. Many of them desperately desiring to be understood, began to yell over other speakers hoping that raising their voice made them easier to comprehend, leading to a great cacophony that even the gods themselves could hear. Ves¡¯ra, whom apparently had been enjoying a rather peaceful nap, was woken up by the calamity of screaming matches and tore the heavens asunder to see what the commotion was all about.

    Finding the assorted mortal races screaming to be understood by one another, Ves¡¯ra¡¯s rage was replaced by pity. As a display of benevolence and wanting to continue his afternoon nap, he gifted a common language to the peoples of Messaris, ending the stalemate of wild gesturing and screaming.

    Vesran itself was written through an alphabet that seemed to be a strange love child of the Greek alphabet and Nordic runes. Thankfully the symbols themselves were relatively simple to write and mesmerize but learning to read a new language was still daunting to Senna.

    At least I don¡¯t have to worry about them understanding me when I speak, that''s a much bigger hurdle than learning to write again.

    With reading and writing being the highest priority, Celica felt that history, geography, and magical theory could come later. Math wasn¡¯t too much of a concern for either since that had been a subject that Senna was proficient at in her past life. Although, one of the ¡®subjects¡¯ that Senna did feel anxious about was brushing up on her social skills.

    There¡¯s no internet or MMOs for me to get lost in anymore, I have to actually talk to people¡­

    Sighing, Senna lifted the tray with the now empty plate towards her mother, throwing the covers off herself immediately after. Untying a yellow ribbon that had been wrapped around her wrist, she used it to tie up her hair into a ponytail, only a singular blue lock escaping her hands. She clutched her crutches tightly, pulling herself out of bed.

    ¡°I want to try the stairs, mom.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re ready..?¡±

    ¡°Well, if I fall, you¡¯ll catch me, right?¡±

    ¡°I always will.¡±

    --

    ¡°Make the bugs stop crawlin¡¯ beneath mah skin!¡±

    Whimpering, the bandit leader that had ambushed Orchid was now rocking back and forth beside a campfire, tears cascading from his eyes. Gripping his own legs so tightly that his fingernails were drawing blood, he eyed the man he had originally thought would be an easy mark to rob.

    Nearby in a small freshly dug pit the bodies of several of the bandit¡¯s comrades were burning in a pyre to dissuade predators from scavenging them. Orchid was smoking a pipe and sitting on an ottoman chair, a cruel smile still on his face.

    ¡°Wha¡¯ are yeh?!¡± The bandit¡¯s rocking stopped, his eyes filled with a primal fear.

    ¡°I¡¯m a human, same as you.¡±

    ¡°Yer no fucking human! Yer a monster!¡±

    Chuckling, Orchid responded in a relatively monotone manner.

    ¡°I know. My own mother told me the very same before abandoning me. I thought if she didn¡¯t have to spend such late nights out with those bandits things would get better, so I used the powers my goddess gave me and took them all out.¡±

    ¡°You¡­ made me kill all my friends.¡±

    ¡°And don¡¯t you feel so much better for it?! You helped make this land safer! You¡¯re a hero! Plus, now I can turn back on the ecstasy!¡±

    ¡°Nothin¡¯ could make me feel anythin¡¯ again¡­¡±

    ¡°Nonsense! Never underestimate the thrill of the high!¡±

    Leaping from his chair, Orchid grabbed the bandit by the hair, dragging him to the ground.

    ¡°Would you like ecstasy or release? Choose now, before I choose for you.¡±

    ¡°Release!¡± The bandit sputtered, barely trying to resist.

    ¡°Deal!¡± And with that, Orchid seized a dagger and proceeded to slit the man¡¯s throat.

 Chapter 9

    Savory scents danced merrily around the quaint kitchen as Senna watched her mother flip bacon sizzling in a pan. They had marinated it with a dollop of a sauce similar to Dijon mustard, alongside black pepper and garlic. Celica cooked the hissing meat as the oil and fat crackled, seizing each piece with prongs as it reached that perfect medium of brownish-red; not too crispy, not too chewy.

    Next, not wanting the grease to go to waste, she broke several eggs into the pan, whisking them aggressively until they were sufficiently scrambled, marinating in the juice of the bacon. Spreading several pinches of salt, some dashes of red pepper, and diced green onions, she was quick to give it a once over before removing it so that the latter wouldn¡¯t dry out.

    Lastly, she snagged some slices of wheat bread, spreading a little leftover egg batter across the surface, alongside butter and garlic. Senna watched intently as she leaned on a single crutch, trying to memorize every piece of the intricate alchemy that was cooking.

    Having mastered the stairs recently and now able to traverse the entire house, Senna decided that the first thing she wanted to do was learn to cook as well as her mother does. So the last couple mornings she had gotten up early to spend time in the kitchen watching Celica prepare breakfast.

    The kitchen itself was picturesque; various herbs were hung to dry around the ceiling leaving a perfect piquant symphony to waft through the room. The main counter had neat stacks of wooden plates, bowls, utensils, mortars and pestles, and pots and pans. In the corner was a cabinet filled with dried and preserved ingredients for various dishes.

    On one side was a brick oven and stove top combination beside a granite wash basin that every nouveau riche up-and-comer would¡¯ve died to have installed in their house to capture a cottage core aesthetic. In the center of the room was a mid-sized cherrywood table to accommodate the family of four. Senna had insisted on eating here with Celica the last several days now that she could navigate the house.

    After their meal was finished, Senna pulled up a stool at the sink, urging Celica to let her at least contribute by doing the dishes. Dish soap in this world more so closely resembled its forms in the nineteenth century; a mixture of lye, vinegar, and touch of grease cured into a bar. Not that dishes had ever been enjoyable to do, but it was considerably less pleasant than the bottled soap in her apartment in the past.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to step out to pull some more herbs for the pantry, did you want to join me?¡±

    Nodding eagerly, Senna slipped some shoes on and snagged both crutches, following Celica out the backdoor. It was going to be the first time she had seen the yard, let alone it was the first time she¡¯d be leaving the house since arriving.

    Senna stepped down a pair of cobblestone steps, stopping so she could shield her eyes as she was nearly blinded by the sunlight. As her vision adjusted, she was somewhat surprised at how small the yard was. It wasn¡¯t much bigger than the small spaces you might see with a condo on Earth. The arrangement of space was clearly to utilize every inch to the maximum potential possible.

    In a somewhat wider space, there was a small, one-man greenhouse where Celica kept her herbs and spices to have seasonings available all year long. Around the perimeter of the space was an unusual flower that¡¯s thorny stems resembled roses, with its petals forming a star shape. The petals themselves were a striking electric blue, beautifully contrasted by snow white tips and stamen. Rows of basic vegetables were slowly sprouting to life in the late spring air, all of them awaiting harvest in the summer.

    Recovering from the glare, the fragrance of flowers, vegetables, and damp soil assaulted Senna¡¯s senses. A city slicker through and through, the only recollections she had of the outdoors was walking home through the park after school, as well as a short stint in the gardening club due to a crush on a classmate. Otherwise, she had avoided the outdoors like the plague, forgetting what life was like outside of the concrete jungle.

    ¡°Did you need my help with anything?¡±

    ¡°I just need to pull some garlic, basil, and thyme from the greenhouse. I thought you¡¯d like to get some sunlight and greenery while I do that and replant the seeds.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d love it, honestly.¡± She grinned, starting to hobble around the yard while Celica trotted off towards the greenhouse.

    Enchanted by the garden, Senna began to wander around the space admiring the work that Celica had put into it. Not only did she find bird nests and a family of mice in the flowers, but also several lizards and a stray frog. It was a place that would¡¯ve felt like a fairy tale to her as a child.

    ¡°These flowers are otherworldly¡­ What are they called?¡± Senna mused, entranced by their beauty.

    Gently taking one of the flowers in her hand, Celica smiled, clearly keen to tell her.

    ¡°Empress¡¯ Madrigal! They¡¯re from a kingdom to the far south, named by an empress whose passion was horticulture. Even better, they¡¯re used as a poignant catalyst for medicinal brews, so I grow them for fun and donate them to alchemists who provide free potions to city clinics.¡±

    Eyes wide in awe of the woman, Senna daintily crept across the yard towards the woman. There had never been someone in her life even remotely like this, feeling like the more she learned, the more of a superhero her new mother seemed to be.

    ¡°How are you so cool!? You¡¯re not only the kindest person I¡¯ve ever met, but you were an adventurer, you¡¯re an amazing cook, you can garden, you donate medicinal flowers to the sick¡­ It doesn¡¯t feel real that I could end up with someone like you as my mom.¡±

    Celica stared blankly at Senna for a moment before laughter burst forth, leaving the latter in a stunned silence.

    ¡°Am I cool?! I find that I¡¯m rather boring these days and just trying to stay occupied,¡± she retorted, smile still on her face as she held her sides. ¡°Besides, you¡¯re my daughter, of course I want to always treat you with kindness.¡±

    ¡°Still¡­ I guess it feels so idyllic and I don¡¯t know how to process it fully sometimes.¡± Her smile slowly fading, Celica half turned towards the flowers, a sober expression in her eyes.

    ¡°While I hate to shatter this image you¡¯re building of me, I want you to know I wasn¡¯t always like this. It took many years to learn how to cope with the trauma of my childhood and early years of adventuring and turn it into something positive.¡±

    Putting a hand to her chin, she continued.

    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    ¡°Adventuring is not a path for the faint of heart, and there was a time where I lacked more empathy than I should. While I¡¯m a firm believer that very few mortals are born inherently evil, I would say that many are not inherently empathetic or kind. Those are things are often built through self-reflection and looking outside of yourself through the eyes of others.¡±

    ¡°Yeah¡­ I imagine so.¡±

    Snapping back to the present moment, Celica smiled once more and nodded.

    ¡°It¡¯s a lifelong work in progress, too. I¡¯m far from perfect and can even be a little petty...¡± She hesitated for a moment, blushing, gesturing towards a neighbor over the wall. Leaning in close, in a hushed voice she confessed.

    ¡°For instance, I found a useful levitation spell that I use to gather up all the snails in the garden and I drop them over the wall in the corner. The old man that lives there is a waspish ass and he yelled at you once for accidentally bouncing a ball into his yard, and so I never forgave him for it.¡±

    Cracking up, Senna couldn¡¯t help but laugh at the sheer pettiness of the snail fueled microaggression.

    ¡°If you¡¯re trying to make me think this is a personal flaw of yours, it¡¯s not working.¡±

    ¡°Well, I better get this done so we can head back in. Don¡¯t overexert yourself, go take a seat on the porch.¡±

    Turning back towards the house, Senna took a seat on the warm cobblestone to bask in the sun for a moment. The warmth felt incredible on her aching legs, helping soothe the recuperating muscles. She still had another month of laciel sessions with Cy, but she was making an incredibly swift recovery.

    The sooner I can get back on my feet to help around the house, the less guilty I¡¯ll feel.

    It was a thought that had weighed on her conscience several times since arriving. Coming from a world that valued your monetary contributions above all else, taking a month to do nothing but study and recover felt selfish. It¡¯s why she had been hiding the level of exhaustion she felt from her physical therapy.

    Laying back on the stone, she closed her eyes as a breeze kissed her cheeks, decided this was the opportune time for a catnap. About half an hour passed as she listened to the distant sounds of children, laborers, and birdsong. A sound that didn¡¯t quite fit the melody of the morning ecosystem met her ears and snapped her attention back to reality.

    An otherworldly ¡®meow¡¯ sounded out from the tomato patch, as Senna bolted up to try to catch a glimpse of its source. Standing atop an upside-down bucket, a shockingly tall ¡®cat¡¯ silently stared at Senna, an amused expression on its face.

    The cat was nothing like anything she had seen before. If she could hazard a guess, it was about two feet tall at a sitting position, with jagged ears that pointed back about fifteen inches. Its coat was short and bristled, a soft lavender in coloration with a tail that was about twice as long as an ordinary cat¡¯s with a sharp, curved spine at the end.

    It seemed to notice immediately that Senna had noticed it, meowing once more at her. Despite sensing no aggression emanating from the creature, the hairs on the back of her neck stood up on end due to the magnetic aura it was radiating. She didn¡¯t know what else to do but to call for help.

    ¡°Uh¡­ Mom...?¡± She called out while maintaining eye contact with the creature.

    Knowing that running was the number one mistake with a predatory creature, especially a feline of any variety, Senna slowly stood up and tried to make herself look bigger. This wasn¡¯t particularly effective as she hoped due to being a teenage girl, yet she stood her ground.

    The ¡°cat¡± looked intrigued, taking a step off the bucket and taking several steps towards Senna. It was at this point that the girl noticed a strange, faint glow softly pulsing around its body, its steps almost misty as it traversed through the grass.

    At this point, having virtually zero experience with animals, Senna began to fully panic, as she tried to step backwards with her crutches up the steps. The foot of a crutch caught on the stonework, causing her to painfully land on her haunches, back against the kitchen door. Through the daze she attempted to wield a crutch before crying for help.

    ¡°MOM! HELP ME!¡±

    A crash could be heard from the greenhouse as the door flew open and Celica launched forward as if her feet had discovered jet propulsion. Seeing the cat, she threw herself between the two, hands raised and muttering an incantation. The telltale sigils appeared, and she called out a quick chant.

    ¡°Let Meltirra guide our sight to see that which would hide!¡±

    A gold light flashed around Celica briefly before she lowered her hands.

    The creature hissed, dazed by the brilliant flash of light, its wiry tail fluffed out. Taking a defensive position it took several steps back, baring its fangs at Celica.

    ¡°What the hell is that thing?!¡± Senna cried out.

    ¡°Wait, you can see it Senna?!¡±

    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s a big ass cat!¡±

    Holding her ground, Celica glared at the ethereal creature for a few moments before she slowly lowered herself to be eye level with it. Extending a hand outward towards the creature, she spoke to it

    in a calm voice.

    ¡°I apologize, that girl is my daughter, and she lost her memories. She has never seen an aethos before, and I merely believed her to be in danger.¡±

    An ugly, rhythmic wheezing emanated from the creature¡¯s mouth that Senna later realized was laughter. A voice then filled her thoughts, as the creature stared intently at the women.

    ¡°Apology unnecessary¡­ Rez¡¯nir was merely drawn to the girl. She is aeth sa¡¯nak and possesses the sight. Not often does one such as this appear in these dwellings.¡±

    Not breaking eye contact with Rez¡¯nir, Celica slowly motioned with her free hand for Senna to come closer. Swallowing the knot in her throat, Senna used the crutches to push herself to her feet, warily approaching the creature.

    Rez¡¯nir¡¯s raspy voice trickled her into her thoughts once more.

    ¡°Does the child have a name?¡±

    ¡°My¡­ My name is Senna,¡± she pushed herself to say, her voice shaking.

    She had recalled countless fairy tales from her childhood about the fey and how giving them your true name was always a dangerous game to play. Yet, if Celica urged her over, she assumed that it must be safe to do so.

    ¡°Sen-na. It is a powerful name, yes. You have been touched by stars; your aura shines like the sun. Should you embrace this, Rez¡¯nir and others would gladly seek your calls.¡±

    Celica slowly bowed to the earth, even going as far as to press her head into the grass.

    ¡°We are honored by your presence and offer.¡±

    Turning her head to face a perplexed Senna, Celica silently mouthed ¡®bow¡¯ to her daughter, whom followed suit without even questioning the command.

    To a third party, Senna¡¯s attempt at reverence more so resembled a falling flat on her face than a bow, but Rez¡¯nir either paid no mind or found it amusing and accepted the gesture.

    ¡°This one hopes you meet you again soon. May the warmth of Qualia guide your path.¡±

    With that, the creature gave what they could assume was a small bow in return, before turning away and dissolving into thin air. It was only now that Senna realized the energy the creature was radiating; the hair on her arms and neck stood on end as if magnetized. Likewise, she felt a peculiar electric sensation passing through her body head to toe.

    Feeling a touch overwhelmed by the encounter, both women rose to their feet, Senna somewhat panting as she lifted herself up.

    ¡°So that happened¡­¡± Senna awkwardly laughed, ¡°What was-¡°

    ¡°Senna! Gods above, you¡¯re a summoner!¡±

    Celica¡¯s eyes lit up like a kid on Christmas, excitement bubbling off of her, leaving Senna even more confused than before.

 Chapter 10

    This isn¡¯t Endless Fantasia, summoning is a thing!?

    Everything considered, she wasn¡¯t sure why this surprised her so much.

    ¡°I¡¯m a what now?!¡± Senna barked, her eyes glossing over.

    ¡°Senna, darling! This is huge!¡±

    Her brain buffering, still trying to process having a conversation with an otherworldly stray cat, Senna turned with a blank expression towards her mom.

    ¡°A¡­ summoner? As in, I summon creatures to fight for me?¡±

    ¡°Yes, exactly that. Well, not just fight for you, but harness some of their powers as well. Generally, summoners can also see spectral entities that would otherwise require specific spells or enchantments to be perceived."

    Unable to stop herself, Senna asked the obvious question.

    ¡°Is that what that spell was? Something that lets you see¡­ Aethos?¡±

    ¡°Yes, exactly. I can perceive when specters and Aethos are around, but to see their true form, I require that incantation. Without it, I merely see a distorted space, like the heat radiating off cobblestone on a hot day.¡±

    ¡°Are the Aethos¡­ dangerous? You seemed very quick to bow to it.¡±

    ¡°I¡­¡± Celica paused, unsure for a moment how to continue. ¡°They are usually benevolent towards mortals, but they are beings of immense power that should be respected. Some scholars theorize they inhabit the same realm as the gods themselves, and that they wield enough power that they could erase civilization overnight if they thought it was necessary.¡±

    ¡°So, what¡¯s the catch? Seems like a god tier ability to summon Aethos.¡± Her voice was more flippant sounding than she intended.

    ¡°Well besides requiring an immense amount of mana, the most powerful Aethos will either drastically shorten the lifespan of the user¡­ or kill them outright in exchange for brief mome.¡±

    ¡°I figured it had to be a steep price¡­ You don¡¯t get to be that overpowered without a cost.¡± Senna remarked thoughtfully.

    ¡°Regardless, that¡¯s incredible news! Summoners have many paths to choose from, especially if they have a natural affinity for it! Many become scholars to help expand our knowledge about the relationship of mana with magical beings and the ject, others become the bodyguards of kings and emperors, and particularly powerful individuals are tasked with protecting entire cities from monumental threats.¡±

    Letting out an awkward laugh, Senna scratched the back of her head.

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ that¡¯s a lot to process.¡±

    ¡°That being said, you aren¡¯t obligated to pursue that or any other particular path. It gives you the options of pursuing particularly grand opportunities, but those may not be right for you.¡±

    Sitting back in the grass, Senna digested the words for a few moments in silence. The warmth of sunlight filled her bones, the grass between her fingers and toes helped ground her as she mulled over her thoughts. It felt like each week on Messaris had some new revelation, continually changing the trajectory of the world around her.

    ¡°I want to make the most of this second chance in life, but that¡¯s also a little overwhelming to think about. I also can¡¯t say that sticking my nose in books all day sounds particularly thrilling, it¡¯d probably just be the fantasy life version of my last job. I also can¡¯t imagine myself rubbing elbows with royalty; that sounds exhausting.¡±

    ¡°Nobility is exhausting. I was asked to be part of an extended security entourage with your father for a crown prince and I cannot imagine living a life that far removed from the common person. Maybe someday we can shift our society towards a system that truly represents commoners rather than some vague claim to divinity.¡±

    Senna merely gave a simple nod in response. Politics and societal level paradigm shifts weren¡¯t something she felt confident opining about. One of the best lessons she learned as an adult was not sharing an opinion if it wasn¡¯t informed or asked for. Besides, the sea change of events over the last month had created a serenity that she wasn¡¯t ready to part with yet.

    Though, a strange question entered Senna¡¯s mind.

    ¡°It feels weird to ask, but when I was little, did you have any particular aspirations for me as I grew up?¡±

    Celica gave a thoughtful sounding ¡®hmm¡¯ as she pondered the question.

    ¡°Well, truthfully, I think every parent probably does. Your father hoped both you and your sister would be adventurers like us. I used to hope you¡¯d want to have a safer, quieter life; but we agreed to never push you one way or another. I think too many people see children as an accessory, or as a tool for passing on their trade, or even simply because their parents or community expect them to have one. They hope the child will be this clay doll that they can shape and color to their own liking and will do as they say without question. They can¡¯t seem to grasp that each person is an individual with their own unique personality and their own life aspirations.¡±

    An expression of shock flashed across Senna¡¯s face in response, slightly taken aback at her forward thinking on the matter. Meanwhile, Celica cleared her throat and continued, wanting to finish her thoughts.

    ¡°Some of us didn¡¯t get a choice. I certainly didn¡¯t. Maybe that¡¯s why I¡¯m so insistent that you choose your own destiny.¡±

    A southern breeze kissed their cheeks, as wayward flower petals meandered across the lawn. One of them landed on Senna¡¯s nose, delicately tickling her skin. Brushing it away, she gave one final glance at endless cerulean skies above; an ocean for the birds that raced between the islands of fluffy clouds lazily sailing across the horizon.

    ¡°On that note,¡± Senna started to speak but was interrupted by a tremendous yawn that spread throughout her entire body, ¡°I think I¡¯m ready for a nap. I know I¡¯m supposed to be studying, but do you have any books about summoning or Aethos?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t, no, but I could go pick you up something while you nap!¡±

    ¡°Only if you¡¯re going out!¡±

    Learning to let herself be loved was an ongoing struggle for Senna, let alone the growing anxiety that she was a burden to Celica. She was beginning to finally believe there was no resentment growing in her mother¡¯s heart, but acceptance that your existence is not a burden is not won overnight.

    ¡°I wanted to go check in with Reyna since the rest of your clothes are probably done by now. I remember there being a quaint little shop in that same row of shops!¡±

    With that, the pair rose to their feet, brushing off dirt and petals from their clothing. Celica stepped away to retrieve the herbs she had pulled from the greenhouse, while Senna made her way up the porch and back into the kitchen. Once inside, they quickly washed off the herbs, before setting them out to dry.

    In the living room, they exchanged parting words before Senna made her way slowly up the stairs and to her room. Setting down her crutches as she sat on the bed, she eyed her notebook and the children¡¯s books she had been practicing reading. The sun having drained any kind of motivation or effort from her body, she scooped up the books and dropped them on the floor. Curling up with Mister Floppit in her arms, she free fell into the depths of dreams.

    ¨C

    The sun hadn¡¯t even fully risen before the screaming had begun.

    As the red dawn broke, the smoke plumes quickly filled the sky as the eastern city of Vrissk began to burn. Soldiers of a marauding army marched through the streets, setting houses ablaze and cutting down the residents as they fled out the front door. Despite being a sizable town, most of the local garrison had been deployed to the front lines to the west, leaving virtually no defenses.

    ¡°Callak! Callak!!¡±

    A girl no older than fifteen shook her little brother desperately as distant sounds of battle slowly grew louder. The boy slowly rubbed sleep from his eyes as his sister lifted him to his feet. She frantically spun to grab his boots and clothes in the darkness of their meager room.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong Yula?¡± He said groggily, finally coming to his senses.

    ¡°The Nether Dawn are attacking, they¡¯re killing everyone. We have to run!¡±

    Haphazardly dressed, Yula seized Callak by the wrist and yanked him out of the room and towards the back door of their house.

    ¡°What about my bear Theo? Where is mommy?¡± Tears now welling up in his eyes.

    ¡°Mom went to the market, but we can¡¯t wait for her to get back. There¡¯s no time, we¡¯ll find her later!¡±

    Seizing her daggers off a table and concealing them in her clothing, Yula took a deep breath in through her nose, exhaling out of her mouth. Her heart was pounding painfully in her chest as fear tried to worm its way into her lungs. Taking another deep breath, she steeled herself, seizing Callak by the wrist and marched out the back door.

    Stepping into the yard, the siblings ducked behind a short, stone wall. Not seeing any soldiers making their way down the lane yet, they emerged from cover. Panicked neighbors running half dressed in the darkness, they slowly slipped over the stonework and raced down the street.

    The siblings kept small as they clung close to walls and structures, pausing at one of the main roads exiting the town south. Hundreds of people were trying to crowd down the road to avoid the approaching soldiers from the north. Most of them were merely escaping with the clothes on their back and holding loved ones close with the occasional greedy merchant desperately trying to push a cart of goods.

    Every aspect of it was chaos, and the noise was only going to attract soldiers.

    ¡°We can¡¯t leave this way, Callak. There¡¯s something wrong, I can feel it in my bones.¡±

    ¡°I see Tenma¡¯s family, maybe mommy is with them!¡±

    Although it would¡¯ve been easy to blend in with the crowd, her instincts and training as a forest tracker told her that a predator was looming out of sight. Swallowing the knot in her throat, she crossed the street and weaved in and out of the crowd as her brother began to openly sob. Yula knew that she was hurting his wrist and that he was scared, but she was a child leading a child.

    Stopping at an intersection, they heard screams of horror meet the rising sun.

    Turning her head back, she covered her mouth in shock, her feet coming to a screeching halt. Several mecha riders atop mechanical drakes were hovering above the throngs of panicking people, slinging fireballs into the crowds below. Dozens of figures vanished in the wall of flames that was cutting off the road as the riders above silently watched, summoning their next wave of spells.

    Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

    Like a herd of terrified deer, many of the fleeing victims froze in place, unsure of what to do as they watched their loved ones burn. Some rushed through the flames hoping to put themselves out on the other side, while the rest of the crowd turned and ran in various directions. A select few fell to their knees and solemnly waited for the end.

    Possessed by the sheer will to survive, Yula resumed her escape, pulling Callak¡¯s arm even harder than before. Most of the streets on the shortest path were empty, most of the residents likely fleeing by this point. Passing several houses, Yula was caught off guard by an elderly couple holding hands on their front porch.

    ¡°You both need to run! The Nether Dawn is here and they just ambushed the south gate!¡±

    The old man looked at his wife for a thoughtful moment, before addressing Yula.

    ¡°We know, child. We¡¯re too old to flee, we¡¯d just slow down healthy young folk who need to escape. We¡¯ve had a long, good life here in Vrissk, at least we get to depart this life together.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t waste your time worrying about us, deary. Get that little boy to safety, you hear?¡±

    His wife¡¯s eyes smiled, glittering in the morning light. The was no trace of t he virulent fear that was sweeping through the panicking city, only a calm shine of acceptance flashing in their eyes.

    Leaving behind the elders, Yula continued down the last block before the eastern gate facing the Lasuga Forest. The path was a straight shot ahead; the gate was in plain sight and the coast was clear, as a handful of people rushed out of the city towards the wilderness. It was here that the girl had decided she would part ways with her brother.

    Pausing at the threshold of the city, she kneeled down to meet her brother at eye level. Taking his hands in hers, she took a deep breath.

    ¡°Callak. I am only going to tell you this once. Follow those people that just fled. The people of Vrissk protect their own, they will take care of you. I know I shouldn¡¯t leave your side, but I need to find our mother.¡±

    A driving guilt rose in her throat as she pushed the words out, knowing in her heart of hearts that she was committing a grievous sin separating from her brother. Yula already knew their mother was likely dead, but she desperately wanted to at least have a body to bury before the monsters had a chance to burn her. She would bury her beside the empty grave for their father who had already died fighting the Nether Dawn on some distant battlefield.

    Sobbing loudly, Callak shook his head aggressively.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t leave me sister, please don¡¯t make me go alone!¡±

    ¡°Shhh! We always have time later to cry, we only have right now to act. Run! We are running out of time!¡±

    Yula pulled the boy against herself for a moment, hugging him with all her strength. She kissed the top of his head, a silent prayer begging the gods to protect the child, before pushing him away.

    ¡°RUN! I will be as quick as I can!¡±

    Muttering a wind spell, Yula tapped her feet, granting herself a blessing of speed before turning away and bolting away.

    I have done an extremely cruel thing. I know that I will die, but I still have to try to find our mother.

    The lead weight of guilt grew heavier, her steps felt heavy despite the speed at which she moved. Bounding towards the market place, she slid into a ditch that acted as a drainage point for rainy days as she saw Nether Dawn soldiers swarming the market place. Several mounds of corpses were piled up in the center of the square, soldiers laughing and jeering as they went.

    Slowly raising her head to scan the area for any sight of her mother¡¯s body, she knew deep down it was hopeless. Her emotions had gotten the better of her, desperately wanting to reunite their little family fully. It defied the teachings of the rangers; do not act blindly, especially if guided by emotions and not a sound mind.

    About to turn back, she spotted her.

    A woman was trying to crawl away from a mound of corpses that hadn¡¯t been burnt yet. Her hands covered in blood and dirt, she desperately tried to pull herself away from the soldiers gaze. Yula¡¯s heart froze in her chest; that was her mother, Layla.

    Silent tears slowly ran down Yula¡¯s face. She wasn¡¯t going to get an injured woman out of harms way, not under the noses of soldiers a dozen feet away. She knew that her little brother¡¯s life depended on her return, that he would die in the wilds without her.

    Biting her cheek and swallowing the grief, she slowly lowered herself back into the ditch.

    Trying not to gag as the pungent burning smell of death hit her nose, she crawled away and snuck behind an empty shop. Retrieving the daggers from her clothing, she knew soldiers would be approaching the east gate by now and she needed to be ready for anything.

    Retracing her steps back towards the gate, she kept one eye looking overhead to be sure mecha riders wouldn¡¯t spot her on the street. It was already bad enough that soldiers were swarming the roads but knowing that cowards in the sky could throw explosive balls of fire on unarmed people was even worse. The entire affair enraged her the more she let her thoughts wander.

    Their village hadn¡¯t been touched yet by the war but hearing that The Nether Dawn and Eryx had finally begun to lose, the city had offered many of its fighting men to the effort. They had razed a nearby Nether Dawn outpost to secure a strategic crossing for allied kingdoms, which was likely the reason this detachment of soldiers was attacking them. It was one of many last-ditch attempts to bleed the world dry for not accepting the Kronomancer as a god-king.

    Peering around a corner, Yula eyed a group of Nether Dawn soldiers trying to push the gate closed after realizing the turnstile had been sabotaged. They were probably trying to seal the exit, knowing it was too late to set up an ambush. It was her last chance to escape the city; soon they¡¯d raze every building to the ground.

    Thoughts reeling, trepidation filled her soul like sand in an hourglass. Whispering another wind spell, she only had one option left; she was going to run through the gates before they were able to seal them. Getting low to the ground to hide the light of the sigils, she felt her body lighten as the incantation took effect over her.

    Taking a final breath to calm her nerves, Yula whispered to herself a final encouragement.

    ¡°Callak is waiting for you. Don¡¯t leave him without a family.¡±

    Daggers at the ready, Yula exploded from cover, a cloud of dust erupting from her feet as she shot like a bullet towards the gate. Feeling the wind at her sides, she grinned as the gate rapidly grew larger. None of the soldiers looked like they¡¯d be within range to intercept her path in time, as one by one they noticed the blur of a girl rushing past them.

    Swerving between a pair that had seen her coming, their weapons cut into the others flesh as they clumsily missed their target by a mile. Her daggers swung as she rounded the corner of the closing gate, causing a soldier on the other side to spin backwards as two crimson slashes appeared across his torso. Not caring to finish the job, she continued her bound towards freedom, crossing the bridge that ran over a short stream that hugged the wall.

    Verdant green grass met her feet as freedom greeted her with open arms. Not daring to stop yet, she bolted down the small road that most local folk used to travel to the forest. There were a few thickets and downs along the way that would make for easy hiding spots; she hoped that one of their neighbors had snagged Callak and done the same.

    Several minutes passed as she raced down the path, knowing the closest thicket was nearby. They were well known secrets amongst the locals as good hiding places during foul weather, against bandits, or even monsters. Some of them even had elaborate tents weaved through the shrubbery to create dens.

    As Yula rounded a bend, she almost crashed as she slid to a halt.

    Walking down the path towards her was a Nether Dawn officer of some kind: a woman with pale blonde hair and red lips that matched her bright red eyes. She was wearing an elaborate cloak with the hood drawn up, a muffler that had been lowered to reveal her mouth, and the crest of a half obscured gray sun on her chest.

    An inhuman voice trickled down her lips as she bore a sinister smile at the girl.

    ¡°Hello there, little cottontail. Why have you run so far from your den?¡±

    Maybe one hundred or so feet behind the woman was the hiding place that she had been looking for, but with an enemy in sight, she knew better than to try to approach it. Instead, she trained her eyes on the woman, not wanting her body language to betray the position of potential survivors.

    Continuing her slow, prowling, predatory gait towards Yula, the woman spoke once more.

    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, little rabbit? Coyote got your tongue?¡±

    Smiling, she revealed a set of vampiric fangs and sharpened teeth. She was likely one of the homunculi that Eryx the Kronomancer had engineered to help lead his armies and act as his field commanders. Yula had heard about them from the forest trackers that had been training her, the consensus being that only well-trained soldiers could go toe to toe with them. There was no chance that a child could fight her or escape.

    Swallowing down the growing tide of grief that filled her throat, Yula knew there was only one thing to do; keep her distracted or lead her away so that anyone watching them in the thicket could escape. The forest wasn¡¯t far and if she made enough of a racket, she could hopefully get their attention to slink away in the confusion.

    ¡°Congratulations! You found a survivor! What¡¯s the prize?!¡± Trying to keep the shaking in her tone to a minimum, she waved the daggers in her hands wildly to challenge the woman.

    ¡°No, I found prey. Those rank-and-file soldiers were merely ordered to send a message to any villages supporting the allied nations. I am here to hunt. I am here¡­¡± A sickly pallid tongue fell out of her mouth and licked her lips in such a grotesque manner that Yula¡¯s skin crawled. ¡°To consume defiant little rodents like you.¡±

    A horrifying realization hit Yula. This isn¡¯t just an ordinary homunculus; this was a ghoul. There had been rumors about them patrolling the northern borders, creatures that stalked the night and ate lost travelers, but to give one human intelligence and turn it loose on ordinary people¡­

    What was worse, she realized that there was a benefit to this. If the rumors were true, drawing your own blood and acting as bait for these creatures was supposedly a sure-fire way to make sure any other travelers could get away. Yula was willing to bet her life that this woman would be no different, the last card in her already limited hand.

    Having reached the end of the road, she sighed. She gave herself a shallow gash across the left arm with the blade in her right hand. Locking eyes with the beast, she called out once more.

    ¡°My blood is drawn, creature! FACE ME!¡±

    It wasn¡¯t courage that carried her voice, it was adrenaline. The current of wind still lingering around her was cloaking her fear, hiding the fact that she was shaking like a leaf.

    ¡°I was hoping to flush out the other rabbits, but I can¡¯t deny the invitation you¡¯ve just offered.¡± Her voice grew somewhat distorted as the feral instincts began taking control of the monster.

    Except for Yula¡¯s heartbeat pounding loudly in her ears, a blanket of silence was drawn over the world as the ghoul walked forwards. Not even her footfalls in the gravel and dirt made an impact. Stepping through shadows cast across the path by intertwining trees, for a mere moment the only thing visible on the ghoul was her glowing red eyes and the silhouette of her cloak.

    Yula¡¯s instincts had been correct, though. A family slunk out of the thicket, a teenage boy amongst them carrying her little brother in his arms. They ran up the trail, understanding her ploy immediately. The teenager covered Callak¡¯s mouth, who was clearly trying to fight with them to save her.

    Goodbye Callak.

    Even her heartbeat fell quiet this time.

    Kicking off the ground, she leapt forward as her daggers flashed wildly at the figure in the darkness. Their battle was short lived, relatively one sided as the ghoul parried a majority of the strikes cast her direction with a rather plain looking saber.

    The pair danced as blades flashed between them; a dire waltz to accompany a short melody with a tragic ending. Yula knew this was delaying the inevitable, but it didn¡¯t matter, she wasn¡¯t going to give the creature the satisfaction of surrender.

    Don¡¯t forget me, little brother. I love-

    Their duel lasted several minutes, much to the shock of both parties. Yet, horns in the distance called out, a party of raiders coming to the aid of the city. The vampire snarled in rage as she nonchalantly dodged one of Yula¡¯s slashes that were growing steadily clumsier.

    Tired of the game and knowing she had run out of time, the ghoul parried a slash and returned its fury with a swift riposte across the girls¡¯ chest. The creature outclassed the girl ten times over and had years of experience hunting helpless victims. She was mildly amused at the resistance Yula had offered, but knew it was time to depart.

    ¡°As much as I¡¯d love to devour you, my forces must retreat before we¡¯re hunted down like dogs. You were an amusing doll to play with, but even I need to show restraint once a year.¡±

    Seizing the muffler and obscuring all but her eyes, the ghoul dashed away down the path towards the city, leaving Yula behind. The girl remained on her feet for a few moments, before finally falling back into the dirt of the path.

    Sweat beads gathered on her brow as the day continually grew warmer under the sun¡¯s warm embrace. Birds and grassland creatures stirred and called out to one another. Even a butterfly with brilliant, ornate designs landed on a nearby flower.

    The wound didn¡¯t feel fatal, but adrenaline had finally run dry, and using up so much mana in such a short amount of time left her exhausted.

    Does the sun even notice our pain? Does the world shed tears for our struggle? I guess¡­ none of that really matters now that Callak¡¯s safe.

    Despite the sunlight bearing down on her eyes, an all-encompassing darkness spread across her world. The horizons grew dim, the faces of the family sitting beside her faded away.

    ¡ª

    Bolting awake in a panic, Orchid panted as he came back to reality from the depths of dreams in the dilapidated roadside shack that had once belonged to the bandits. His brow and clothes were damp with sweat, as the same familiar night terror had seized his dreams once more.

    Grabbing a flask filled with water from his belongings, the man gulped down as much as he could stomach. Distant calls of birds told him that morning was on his doorstep, and it was nearly time to resume his journey toward Enzen.

    ¡°I dreamt about you again, sister¡­ As much as I am dedicated to the dreams of Monsignor, I still wish I had been by your side in that moment. It¡¯d be better to have suffered death of the flesh than the spiritual death I now carry in this husk of a body.¡±

 Chapter 11

    A couple weeks had passed since the encounter in the garden with Rez¡¯nir. Senna had since graduated from her crutches and now relied on a simple cane. What excited her most was only two more sessions with Cyrrus remained; she waited with eager anticipation for the grueling recovery sessions to be a thing of the past. Her newfound mobility had also allowed her to start shadowing Celica around the house to learn what chores needed done across the week.

    On a particularly sunny day, Senna convinced her mother to let her take a walk around the neighborhood unaccompanied.

    "Darling, are you sure? I can join you once my chores are done.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine! I¡¯ll be fine! I¡¯m getting cabin fever and figured I¡¯d get out of your hair for an hour or so, anyways.¡± As Senna spoke, she leaned her cane against the kitchen table and took a few moments to stand without any support.

    ¡°Cabin fever? Are you okay?¡± Celica pressed a hand to Senna¡¯s forehead without even a moment of hesitation.

    A laugh burst from Senna¡¯s mouth at the reaction, unable to help herself.

    ¡°It¡¯s an expression on Earth. It¡¯s when you feel anxious for being cooped up in a space for too long.¡±

    Forcing a smile, Celica nodded and conceded.

    ¡°Okay, but please don¡¯t go too far. I worry about you falling or collapsing from exhaustion. If you get into trouble, don¡¯t be afraid to ask someone for help. They¡¯re good folk.¡±

    Truthfully, Senna enjoyed the thought of being struck by lightning more than propositioning a stranger for help. Despite that, she knew in her heart that if Celica could vouch for them, many of them must be genuinely good people.

    ¡°I¡¯ll have lunch ready in an hourish, so don¡¯t be back too late!¡± Senna smiled, and as she was about to turn, she felt Celica¡¯s hand on her shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t forget this!¡±

    Celica reached out an open hand with a somewhat large, ornate key in her palm.

    ¡°It¡¯s a spare key to the front door. It¡¯s yours.¡±

    Hesitating for a moment as strange, sentimental emotions filled her chest, Senna tenderly took the key from her mother¡¯s hand. Her fingers weakly clasping it as if it was as fragile as an egg, she reverently slipped it into her pocket. Turning away before her misty eyes could betray her, she stepped out the door and waved, calling out ¡°Bye mom! I¡¯ll be back soon!¡±

    It was a short walk down the path across the front yard as she closed the door behind her. Taking in a deep breath she steadied her grip on the cane, a small tremble running through her hand. Her thoughts raced as she passed through the gate, the hinges whining as she crossed their boundary.

    Her one trip through the neighborhood more than a month ago had already grown hazy in her memory. Overwhelmed by the events of that fateful day, everything had bled together into a jumbled mess in her head. The only memory of the suburb that remained fresh was the momentary panic as Celica lifted Senna¡¯s wheelchair down the small tract of stone steps leading into their cul-de-sac.

    Walking past several houses all nestled together in a development that clearly predated the rest of the buildings, she noticed that a number of people were out and about. Some were hanging out clothes to dry in their small, compact yards. Others were relaxing in small gatherings, their laughter and jovial discussions lingering in the air. Several children filed out of a house, running past Senna on her left as a woman called out to them to return before sundown.

    It was a strange social ecosystem that she had never really experienced in her past life. When she had been a teenager, most people in the suburbs where she lived were so insular that she never heard of any neighborhood get-togethers or events. Minus small cliques of kids, everyone was so focused on their school or work grind that nearly no one felt a shared sense of community.

    Adulthood had been even worse.

    When she had been Sayko, the extent of her socializing had been in-game chat or on Datcord with guildmates from her favorite MMO, Endless Fantasia. What¡¯s more, they only seemed to reach out when they noticed her absent from scheduled dungeon raid days.

    Somehow learning how to socialize offline feels like the final boss of this new life!

    Heading up the stairs and out of the cul-de-sac, she found herself on a larger street that hosted a variety of multi-story apartments broken up by the occasional small housing plot that likely predated them. Using her free hand to block some of the sunlight that had been obscured by buildings, she paused to observe the thoroughfare. The street itself was dominated by foot traffic, barring a man with a hand drawn cart selling sweets of some kind, as dozens of people went about their day.

    All at once, every one of Senna¡¯s senses were assaulted.

    The closest comparison Senna could compare it to was a combination of anime convention meets horse stables on a Victorian era road. The natural noises of humanity, the smell of dogs and horses, and seeing throngs of people going about their day all at once felt like information overload after a month cooped up.

    Like the first raindrop to break the surface of a pond before the storm, her anxiety began to grow. Senna¡¯s fingertips tingled as her chest tightened, a rising panic filling her throat. She could suddenly feel the heat of the sunlight for the first time, her neck burning up in response.

    Slowly turning back towards the stairs, she nearly took the first step down before immediately catching herself.

    NO! Do NOT take that step!

    Her thoughts screamed as they pulled the emergency brakes on her body¡¯s instinctual reaction.

    You made a PROMISE to change. You PROMISED to do things differently this time!

    The world spun for a moment as she stood at the top of the steps; closing her eyes, Senna took several deep breaths to collect herself. Noticing that she could hear her own heartbeat in her ears, she took her time to wait until the pulsing rhythm disappeared. Pulling a hair tie out of her pocket, she gathered up her hair in her hands and tied it up into a tall ponytail to help keep the heat off her neck.

    Slowly turning to face the street once more, Senna stepped out onto the sidewalk and followed the right hand path down the road. She had remembered her mother mentioning a park in that direction a couple weeks prior and was curious to see if she couldn¡¯t find a quiet spot in the shade to relax.

    Nervous about tripping on a gutter or getting in someone¡¯s way, she decided to stick close to the inner path of the sidewalk. Aside from the occasional deviation around stone steps leading up into an apartment block or to get past a group of people loitering, she found the journey to be relatively pleasant. Most people politely cut a swath to let her pass when they saw her cane and subtle limp.

    Something that quickly stood out to Senna was both how courteous everyone seemed to be towards another as well as how many people were smiling. She was worried her own natural ¡°resting bitch face¡± probably stood out considerably in contrast to everyone else. It somehow felt even more alien to her than when she witnessed magic for the first time in her life.

    Eventually the road turned into a bend, as the park Celica had mentioned started to come into view. Eager to find a bench to rest on, the girl prayed on a shooting star that wasn¡¯t there that a bench would make an appearance soon. Luckily, some gracious deity in the cosmos above heard her silent plea, and as she took her first steps into the park, she saw a stone bench to rest on.

    Beads of sweat formed across her brow and neck that she wiped off with a handkerchief that her mother had lent her. The days had been getting warmer after they had entered the month of Cress, Messaris¡¯ equivalent month to May, and it was already making Senna dread the upcoming summer.

    The park itself was shockingly expansive, nestled neatly between several boroughs. Being on the outer section of Enzen was the only reason the grounds were so vast, as the inner city grew quite cramped until you reached the capitol district or Gosford Manors, where the governing body and local nobility lives respectively.

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    After taking a fifteen-minute breather, Senna resumed her journey to enjoy the park. Following the main trail that lazily bisected the grounds in a snake-like path, she admired the scenery as she went. There were countless trees and several ponds along the way; some of the former had grown into thickets that bordered on being miniature forests.

    Senna was shocked at how many trees were carbon copies of flora found on earth, with several resembling them to a shocking degree. She immediately recognized several species: oaks, maples, cherry, and birch trees. Even the grass closely resembled a regular lawn back home, giving her a reassuring semblance of familiarity in this strange land.

    Flashes of memory raced through her thoughts of the past life. She had never been fond of parks or the outdoors, especially not after her elementary years. Sitting at the edge of playgrounds by herself or under a tree somewhere with a book was about the only activities she ever took part in outside. It wasn¡¯t like the other kids had wanted to befriend her, anyways.

    An hour of slow meandering around the winding path brought Senna to a pond with a bench beside it. Without a smartphone or watch, she had no idea how much time had passed since she had left the house, so she figured it was a good idea to take a quick break before heading home.

    Seconds after sitting down, Senna almost leapt out of her skin sitting back up as a voice sounded out beside her.

    ¡°Rez¡¯nir has been following you, child. You are a stranger in a strange land, no?¡±

    Turning to see the feline creature from the garden taking shape beside her on the bench, Senna hissed through her teeth as she sat back down.

    ¡°Don¡¯t DO that! You scared the life out of me!¡±

    A dry, raspy cough like laughter rose from Rez¡¯nir¡¯s throat.

    ¡°Apologies, apologies. I didn''t mean to scare, merely warn. Children are coming this way and Rez¡¯nir knows they are up to no good. If they trouble you, call on Rez¡¯nir, he will help.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s coming? Help how? What¡¯s going to happen?¡± Her head spun to look over both shoulders out of immediate paranoia.

    ¡°Fret not, child. I will lend an ounce of my strength if you ask for it.¡±

    Like the Chesire Cat, Rez¡¯nir dissolved into the air, an amused expression on his face.

    Sure enough, several minutes later a group of about ten or eleven kids approached the pond, dragging a child by the collar of his shirt. Pushing the boy to the ground, several members of the group jeered and called out insults to him.

    A particularly tall boy with curved goatlike horns in the group stepped out from the crowd to confront the frightened boy on the ground.

    ¡°You wanna call yourself one of us but we don¡¯t want some wimp like you, Thiazzi! You aren¡¯t man enough to be one of us! Not unless you can learn how to swim on the spot, that is¡­¡±

    A familiar cruel smirk flashed across the boy¡¯s face, his scarlet eyes filled with malice. It was familiar because it was one Senna had been on the receiving end of before. Every muscle in her body tensed up reflexively, an anxious energy spreading like wildfire as she balled up her fists.

    Her thoughts raced as she silently watched the scene unfold further.

    Tears were now running down Thiazzi¡¯s face as he turned to plead with the leader of the pack.

    ¡°Please, just leave me alone, Biorix. You know I can¡¯t¡­¡±

    ¡°What was that? I don¡¯t think I heard you¡­¡± Biorix knelt down beside the sobbing Thiazzi. ¡°You WANT to learn to swim?! Is that what you said?!¡± An evil grin now formed.

    ¡°No! You know I didn¡¯t say that!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I heard perfectly!¡±

    Senna¡¯s teeth began to grind, rage replacing the anxiety in her heart.

    I can¡¯t just sit by and do nothing! This poor kid, I have to help him somehow! But what the hell can I do!?

    A familiar voice filled her ear, barely more than a whisper.

    ¡°Do you want Rez¡¯nir to lend his strength?¡±

    Seizing the boy by the wrist, Biorix handily pulled Thiazzi to his feet. With an arm around the latter¡¯s torso, the bully threw the boy into the pond like a ragdoll.

    ¡°Catch us some fish while you¡¯re in there!¡± Biorix yelled, an infuriating tone to his voice.

    Senna was nearly snarling as she grit her teeth, rising to her feet.

    Every one of the boys pointed, raucous laughter filling the previously peaceful air of the park. Thankfully the pond was only a few feet deep, as Thiazzi quickly struggled to stand back up. As he made his way back to the shore, Biorix stood at the edge of the bank, barring the path.

    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?! I believe I told you to catch us some fish, didn¡¯t I!?¡±

    ¡°There¡­ There¡¯s only minnows in here, Biorix¡­¡± Thiazzi¡¯s voice was barely audible, the sound of defeat marching behind each world.

    ¡°Then I guess you¡¯re not leaving until you find something bigger!! Gahaha!¡± As his obnoxious laughter burst forth, he extended a leg out in a swift kick that painfully launched Thiazzi onto his haunches in the now muddy water.

    What had started as sparks amongst kindling was now an inferno. The grip on her cane tightened as Senna muttered under her breath.

    ¡°Let¡¯s do this, I¡¯m gonna kick their asses!¡±

    A sensation of pure warmth raced up Senna¡¯s legs, down through her hands, and filled up her chest. Her stance felt so steady that she let the cane fall to the ground and started walking towards Biorix, every step filled with rage. Truthfully, she had no plan of attack, but simply knew she was going to make him pay.

    The crowd surrounding the bully hushed suddenly as Senna approached. Contentious looks filled with theirs, but none spoke up.

    ¡°Who the hell are you? His little girlfriend or something?¡±

    ¡°No, I don¡¯t even know who any of you are. And I don¡¯t really care either. Help him up now, apologize, and leave.¡± Her voice, low and tumultuous.

    ¡°HAHAHAHA!! You hear this, guys?! She¡¯s trying to defend the little man!¡±

    Glowering, Senna took another step forward.

    ¡°This is your last chance, help him out. Or else.¡±

    There was a raw energy pulsing through her veins that she could only attribute to Rez¡¯nir. It wasn¡¯t just a buff to her body¡¯s strength, she felt confident in ways she hadn¡¯t ever experienced before.

    ¡°Or what?!¡± The boy bellowed, trying to intimidate her.

    Leaping forward, Senna punched Biorix in the side of the gut with enough force that spit flew from the boy¡¯s mouth. Gasping for air from the shock, he stood by helplessly as she seized him by a horn and threw him face first into the muddy bank of the pond.

    He squirmed trying to push himself up and watched as Senna walked past him, stepping into the pond. Pushing himself off the ground, he snarled at the girl who stopped in place, back turned towards him.

    ¡°You little BITCH! I don¡¯t care that you¡¯re a girl, I¡¯ll-¡°

    Before the bully knew what hit him, Senna spun so fast that he wasn¡¯t ready for the open palm slap that took off his feet once more.

    ¡°I hate people like you¡­ if I EVER see ANY of you little bastards come near Thiazzi again¡­¡± A growl ran through her voice like a wild animal at the shocked onlookers. Without a word nearly all of them took off running, abandoning their horned friend Biorix.

    Biorix¡¯s eyes were filled with tears as a blue aura radiated off of Senna, unaware that her eyes had violet hexagonal runes cutting through their golden visage. Gulping, he let out a pathetic whimper.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t hurt me, I¡¯ll never touch him again!¡±

    And with that, the boy jumped to his feet once more and took off running like his life depended on it. A sigh escaped Senna¡¯s lips as she turned to offer a hand to Thiazzi, who still sat on his haunches in the pond water, staring in disbelief at the scene that had unfolded merely seconds ago.

    ¡°Let me help you up.¡± Senna said, a warm tone to her voice.

    She had been this child before. In middle and high school, she had her desk and locker vandalized, her possessions thrown in the dumpster. She had been the child that no one had stood up for. Her heart couldn¡¯t bear to let it happen to someone else.

    Thiazzi cautiously took her hand, his eyes filled with the same fear that Biorix had. Senna held his hand as she led him back to the dry grass, the strength finally leaving her body when she returned to the bench to retrieve her cane.

    All at once, the weight of her recovering legs returned, feeling like she had just run a marathon. Her hands felt tender, bruises beginning to spring up where she had hit and grappled Biorix.

    Mumbling to herself, she whispered thanks to Rez¡¯nir before turning back to face Thiazzi.

    ¡°Well, you¡¯re safe now. My name¡¯s Senna Lorenz, nice to meet you.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ uh.. I¡¯m Thiazzi Bressa¡­ why¡­ Why did you save me from them?¡±

    ¡°Well.. It pissed me off to see them treat you like that! Anyone should¡¯ve intervened had they seen it happening!¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re actually the first...¡±

    Her heart sinking into her knees to hear it, Senna shook her head.

    ¡°Well guess what?! It isn¡¯t happening again! We¡¯re friends now and I¡¯m gonna make sure it doesn¡¯t!¡±

    Despite how heavy her body felt now that Rez¡¯nir¡¯s buff wasn¡¯t active, she forced a genuine grin. Thiazzi looked at his savior in awe, merely nodding at the proposition.

 Chapter 12

    Mud caked her shoes and ran up her legs as she leaned on her cane, grinning at Thiazzi.

    ¡°Your shoes are ruined because of me¡­¡± He whimpered; eyes cast at the ground. It was a ridiculous concern considering he was carrying double the mud on his legs and clothes. He had even momentarily lost a shoe that he retrieved from the bottom of the pond. Much of his hair was damp and matted against his pale skin, revealing downturned, antelope-like ears.

    ¡°Are they..?¡± Senna hadn¡¯t even noticed, totally unconcerned with her own appearance. Her hands were quivering ceaselessly, a concoction of adrenaline and shock from her own actions.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry¡­ I can make it up somehow.¡±

    ¡°Nah, don¡¯t worry about it, I¡¯m just glad you¡¯re okay!¡±

    I don¡¯t know how okay mom¡¯s gonna be about my clothes, but that¡¯s future Senna¡¯s problem.

    Senna could see Thiazzi avoiding eye contact, clearly ashamed of himself. It was the body language of a beaten down person, reminding her of the person she had been until recently. She knew how quickly that level of despair could root itself in your heart and spread its tendrils down every vein and vessel.

    ¡°I mean it, we¡¯re gonna be friends and I¡¯m gonna slap the hell out of that kid if he ever bothers you again. If you¡¯re comfortable with it, I¡¯ll walk you home.¡± She cautiously reached out a hand to lightly pat his shoulder.

    ¡°You really don¡¯t have to! I¡¯ve already caused enough problems as is¡­¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the neat part, you didn¡¯t! Those jerks are at fault for everything, not you. Plus, I¡¯m a big girl and can take responsibility for my own actions. You didn¡¯t force me to do it, and regardless of that, if they ever bother you again, I¡¯ll do the same thing all over.

    Raising his head to finally meet her gaze, Thiazzi opened his mouth trying to find his own words, but nothing came out. After several seconds of awkward noises, he finally nodded and spoke.

    ¡°Thank¡­ you.¡± His voice was low, a sober tone to it.

    The trip out of the park was uneventful, the warmth of the sun drying all but the soles of their shoes as they walked. Much to her chagrin most passersby glanced or chuckled as the pair walked back to the main road, futilely hoping that they¡¯d be ignored. Worse yet, a hunched over old man gave them a sour look before shouting after them.

    ¡°You damn kids stay outta the ponds!¡± His voice cracking, shaking an ancient fist at them.

    Once they were on the main road, pedestrians seemed to ignore the pair, either too busy getting errands done or too enthralled in their conversations to care about the appearance of two young teenagers. It probably wasn¡¯t a particularly uncommon sight to be seen, especially if this world had younger people learning family trades.

    Stopping at the stairs that lead to Senna¡¯s cul-de-sac, she turned to face the boy.

    ¡°This is my stop but I¡¯ll gladly walk you all the way home!

    ¡°N-no, it¡¯s fine!¡± He awkwardly flailed his hands. ¡°I¡¯ve already inconvenienced you enough, I can¡¯t begin to repay you for what you¡¯ve already done for me!¡±

    ¡°Like I said, don¡¯t worry about it. We gotta all help each other out, you know?¡± A smile shone across her face, hoping it would ease the boy¡¯s anxious fears.

    ¡°Anyways, I better get home and clean up! My name is Senna Lorenz, I live down here at the end of the row in case you ever wanna stop by!¡±

    Giving a deep, sudden bow, he yelled out ¡°My name is Thiazzi Ulagarri, thank you again for your kindness!¡±

    Awkwardly chuckling, Senna nodded and held out a hand to shake.

    ¡°I hope we meet again soon, Thiazzi!¡±

    Raising himself up from the bow, he took her hand and gently shook it, his hands revealing a gentle, kind nature to his body language as they delicately gripped hers. With a soft wave, they parted ways, as Senna hobbled down the stairs carefully with her cane.

    ¡°Welp¡­ these shoes and pants are ruined, but god damn was that worth it!¡±

    ---

    ¡°I wonder where that girl is¡­¡± Celica mumbled to herself, anxiously tapping the book in her lap.

    It had been more than an hour and lunch was ready to be eaten. Sitting in an armchair in their humble living room, Celica had been reading a book to pass the time while she waited for Senna to come home. Almost like clockwork, a meager thumping of the door knocker sounded out through the quiet house, prompting the woman to rise to her feet.

    As the door opened, she found still somewhat sopping wet Senna, her lower half covered in mud and disheveled, grinning awkwardly as her mom¡¯s eyes widened at her appearance.

    ¡°Gods above, Senna! What happened?!¡±

    ¡°Oh, you know¡­ Regular stuff!¡± Her grin grew even more sheepish, her embarrassment rising.

    ¡°Never mind that, let¡¯s get you out of those clothes and into the bath! You can explain everything after!¡±

    Minutes later, Senna realized how sore she was from her excursion, the buff she received from Rez¡¯nir leaving her entire body aching. Sinking into a steaming bubble bath, she pulled her hair up into a bun as Celica pulled a chair up beside the tub.

    ¡°So you¡¯re probably wondering what happened¡­¡± Senna avoided eye contact, nervous that she was about to get in trouble.

    ¡°Well yes, but first thing¡¯s first.¡±

    Senna braced herself for yelling, somewhat flinching.

    ¡°Are you okay? Are you hurt at all?¡± Celica¡¯s voice was gentle, the warmth of it somehow outshining the bath. Subsequently, Senna was unaware of how red her face had become.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry! I didn¡¯t have a choice I-¡° word vomit frothed out of Senna¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°Senna! It¡¯s okay, I¡¯m not mad! It¡¯s just that when your daughter shows up damp and muddy, you will naturally have questions¡­¡± A chuckle left her mouth despite the visible concern. ¡°Take a breath, slow down, and start from the beginning.¡±

    Sighing as she wiped a soapsud mustache off her face, Senna retold the entire journey from the start. She took a moment to pause as she reached the point that the group of boys approached.

    ¡°I just want to preface this with¡­ I really hate bullies. I can¡¯t stand someone being tormented for being different.

    ¡±

    A thoughtful expression painted across Celica¡¯s face, she softly motioned for Senna to continue.

    ¡°A group of boys approached, and they were dragging another boy named Thiazzi, tormenting him and calling him names. Their little leader¡­ I think his name was Biorix? He threw Thiazzi in the pond and kept demanding he catch fish for them and wouldn¡¯t leave him alone.¡±

    ¡°Did they do this to you, too?¡± Celica¡¯s eyes narrowed immediately, a strange aggression shining in her eyes that Senna hadn¡¯t seen before.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

    ¡°No! That¡¯s what was surprising¡­ Rez¡¯nir, that aethos from the garden? He had appeared to me and offered to give me some of his strength to help save him shortly before they arrived. I got so mad watching them humiliate Thiazzi that I lost my mind and¡­ may or may not have slapped Biorix so hard that it took him off his feet.¡± She let out an awkward chuckle, afraid that she was about to get in more trouble. Taking a breath, she continued ¡°I got so messy because after they all ran off, I stepped into the pond to help get Thiazzi out and walked him back to the main road.¡±

    Some of the aggression in Celica¡¯s face faded, and she took a moment to respond.

    ¡°First off, I¡¯m not upset with you at all. I¡¯m actually quite proud of you for standing up to malicious little bullies like that.¡±

    Senna immediately felt some of the tension in her shoulders melt away hearing these words.

    ¡°That being said, I know you¡¯re almost fully rehabilitated, but facing a group like that alone is dangerous. You¡¯re lucky that they were just kids. If that was an actual street gang or high stakes situation, that¡¯s an easy way to get killed, especially since your summoning ability is in its infancy.¡±

    Sinking into the mass of bubbles, Senna¡¯s face turned red.

    She¡¯s right, I don¡¯t know what got into me. Bullies piss me off, but I¡¯ve never been one to intervene and put myself in danger.

    ¡°Sorry, mom¡­¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to apologize, I¡¯m not mad at all, I just worry about your safety. We got you out of a coma, let¡¯s not put you back into one.¡±

    After the bath, Senna crawled into bed to practice reading more, exhausted from the day. If the walk to the park and back hadn¡¯t been draining enough; she realized there was a cost to summoning as well. Every muscle from her neck down was sore. Still, the cost felt completely worth the result, knowing she had made a difference in someone¡¯s life.

    Eventually, Celica called Senna down to dinner where a spread of pasta, salad, and breadsticks awaited.

    This world has pasta!? That seals the deal, I really don¡¯t ever wanna go back!

    Taking a seat, they made idle conversation until the topic turned towards Senna¡¯s new powers. Her curiosity had been nipping at her heels since the moment Rez¡¯nir appeared beside her at the park. Being an unusual and less than common profession, she was curious to understand her abilities.

    ¡°We didn¡¯t talk about it much since Rez¡¯nir appeared in the garden, but I was wondering about my ability to summon and speak to aethos.¡± Her voice was somewhat low, eyes looking at the dish below her.

    ¡°What do you want to know..?¡± Celica¡¯s eyes rested on her daughter, a shine of adoration in them. ¡°Actually, before you do, I want to apologize about that.¡±

    Confused, Senna raised her gaze up at Celica.

    ¡°What for¡­?¡±

    Celica paused, thinking about her words for a moment, before continuing.

    ¡°Although I do standby exercising caution about what situations you may find yourself in, it¡¯s also my fault for not having this conversation sooner with you about your ability to harness the power of the aethos. For that, I apologize.¡± As she finished her thought, she reached out an open hand to grasp Senna¡¯s.

    Cheeks slightly flushed; Senna pushed around a piece of tortellini anxiously before responding.

    ¡°I know, I¡¯ll be more cautious going forward, I¡¯m sorr-,¡± Pausing for a moment as she processed her mother¡¯s words, she nearly stumbled over her response. ¡°Wait, what? Why are you sorry?¡± She couldn¡¯t hide the surprise in her tone, taken aback that a parent would apologize for an error they made, even if Senna wasn¡¯t quite sure what Celica was apologizing for yet.

    ¡°Because I should¡¯ve addressed the topic right after it happened, not wait several weeks until you have an encounter with an otherworldly creature taking advantage of a tense situation. So, with that said, ask anything you¡¯d like about aethos and summoners! I don¡¯t have all the answers, but I do know enough to give you an idea.¡±

    Senna would be lying if she hadn¡¯t been thinking about the encounter since it happened. It was her first real experience with an otherworldly creature since arriving, let alone struggling to process the fact that she now had the opportunity to pursue potentially superhuman powers.

    ¡°So what really are the aethos? You told me a little about them before, but I imagine that was that was the answer you¡¯d tell a small child.¡±

    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re not wrong. Although they are similar to the gods, we don¡¯t know for certain who came first. Several realms orbit and intersect our physical world, one of them being Aeth, the realm of the aethos. Their world is thought to be the main source of mana for our world; a waterfall of energy that feeds our jects collectively, fueling not just our souls but also our magical energy, summoning, etc.¡±

    Sipping her water, Celica continued.

    ¡°For reference, the other realms are: Nethyria, Irador, and Rasuum. The realm of gods, the afterlife, and the realm of monsters respectively.¡±

    ¡°With that being said, what the aethos are actually is still a mystery. Some scholars think they¡¯re possibly mana having taken a physical form to interact with the physical realm. If this is true, it begs the obvious question: is mana a sentient being in it of itself? Is magic an expression of its form? Are aethos each their own individual creature or different facets of one vast, singular, cosmic entity? They¡¯re so aloof and think in such alien, abstract ways that mortal peoples might never comprehend the true machinations of their hearts and minds.¡±

    Digesting her words alongside the incredible meal, Senna asked her next query.

    ¡°So why do summoners exist? Even if there is a tax to pay, so to speak, for borrowing their powers or making contracts with them, if they¡¯re such powerful magical entities, what benefit do they get from mortals?¡±

    Her eyes shining at Senna¡¯s salient question, Celica nodded.

    ¡°Smart girl. That¡¯s what many of us would like to know. I think the popular consensus is that it gives them an anchor in our world since they don¡¯t possess static, physical bodies themselves. What¡¯s more, and this is my own pet theory, but¡­ I think they find mortals endearing little creatures, like we might view a cat or dog, and it¡¯s for their own entertainment.¡±

    ¡°So a literal pet theory?¡± Senna¡¯s silly grin made it evident how proud of this pun she was.

    Chuckling, Celica nodded again.

    ¡°I have three more questions¡­ for now, that is. First, how do you make a contract with an aethos? Second, can you contract with multiple aethos?¡±

    ¡°You must simply ask them when you¡¯ve encountered one. Some may require offerings; others may ask you to prove yourself. As for the second question, the short answer is yes. From my understanding, the average summoner usually has three or four that they¡¯ve contracted.¡±

    ¡°Interesting¡­ huh, that¡¯s so cool!¡± Senna¡¯s eyes shifted back and forth and she pondered the responses.

    ¡°And your third question, dear?¡± Celica raised an eyebrow out of curiosity.

    ¡°Well¡­ about that¡­¡± feeling very sheepish, Senna felt silly asking her final question. ¡°Are you okay with me becoming a summoner?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s actually somewhat reassuring, even if there can be other risks.¡± Her expression was thoughtful as she responded.

    ¡°Wait, really?!¡±

    ¡°Honestly¡­ Yes, mostly because some aethos become quite attached to their summoner. Knowing that such a powerful entity is watching out for you when I¡¯m not there would help me sleep a bit easier at night. At least, until you¡¯re older and have enough experience under your belt. Even besides being a child now, your thirty years of experience were with a world that was fundamentally different.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­ No, I get that. I guess I do have one more question, though, it feels a bit silly to ask.¡±

    ¡°Go ahead. We can clean up and go read together after.¡± Her smile was pleasant as she spoke the words. Senna wondered how many months, years, or decades it¡¯d take for Celica¡¯s motherly nature to stop giving her a strange warmth in her chest that she had always yearned for.

    ¡°Well.. I remember you mentioning it before, but are there schools to attend for kids that want to be adventurers or mages, or whatever else?¡±

    ¡°Yes, our city has a joint venture between several colleges for children aged twelve on up, known as Brydelgard Academy. It¡¯s the school I attended, after leaving an orphanage in Hague, a city a day or two away from here.¡±

    An orphanage? She hasn¡¯t mentioned this before¡­

    ¡°If this is the path you¡¯d like to pursue, I¡¯d be so proud if you wanted to attend the same academy, I did¡­¡±

    Goosebumps cascading down her person, Senna tried to contain her excitement. She knew that this wasn¡¯t just a game, that this was a lifelong journey being set out in front of her. Despite that, daydreams of being whisked away to a better life dominated her mental landscape for the better part of her life. Thinking back on Celica¡¯s comment to just want to be selfish for a moment, she allowed herself to savor the moment. As stars filled her eyes, she nearly leapt from her chair, abandoning her fork as it clattered loudly onto the plate below.

    ¡°YES!¡±

    A touch startled by the ecstatic outburst; a hint of blushing ran across Celica¡¯s face as she smiled in response to Senna¡¯s excitement.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be honest with you, mom¡­ It¡¯s a pretty common daydream for people on Earth to be whisked away to a fantasy world where things like magic or mythical creatures exist. If I sound excited, it¡¯s because I was one of those people. I¡¯m trying to stay rational and level headed because I know this isn¡¯t a game and shouldn¡¯t be taken lightly.¡±

    Setting the fork that she had abruptly abandoned aside on a cloth napkin, she pushed her plate forwards.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s my emotions getting carried away because I¡¯m a kid again, or if it¡¯s because an actual dream is coming true, but I desperately want to get to know this world, fall in love with it, and develop the strength to protect it.¡±

    ¡°And together, we can help you reach that dream,¡± Celica¡¯s smile shone warmer than the sun had been those late spring days.

    After clearing the table and cleaning the dishes, the pair retired to the living room where they read books and made small talk the rest of the evening.

 Chapter 13

    Summer went by faster than Senna could¡¯ve ever anticipated.Each week was filled with her own self-imposed regimen of studying, workouts, and learning how to harness her mana. The lynx-like creature Rez¡¯nir hadn¡¯t been in contact since the park incident, but she found herself subconsciously looking for him whenever she ventured out to the garden or market alike.

    During this new self-imposed regimen, Senna had only been taking one day a week to be her day of rest. On the Messarin equivalent of Sunday, she relaxed and either read or spent time with Celica. It was an adjustment period to push herself to grow like this after much of her motivation on Earth had been beaten out of her.

    The hard work had been paying off, too.

    By late summer, she was already fluent in basic reading and writing, now aiming to reach an intermediate level. The formal alphabet of the seven kingdoms was known as Himmelcranz, and served as the language of all business and scholarly settings, while the spoken form was known as Ellyrian. Meanwhile, on an individual level, each nation used their own native tongue.

    Not wanting to look a gift horse in the mouth, Senna didn¡¯t bother questioning her luck as to why her native tongue was identical to Ellyrian, let alone that it was also the most universally used spoken language. She had been wondering if it was mere coincidence or if some invisible translation device was working full time in her head.

    One of the subsequent lessons she learned was that orphans such as her mother often didn¡¯t have a native tongue outside of Ellyrian, worsened by the Threnodian War. Many villages and regions were wiped out, either by massacre or diaspora to escape conflict, leaving abandoned or orphaned children with no connections or memory of their native culture. What few received an education and survived the war in subsequent years merely stuck to the only tongue they had now grown familiar with. Some scholars even feared that the consequence of this social collapse would be the extinction of entire languages and many regional dialects.

    Although all of this was strange, undeniably fascinating and horrifying to Senna, she still quietly wondered what the circumstances of Celica¡¯s childhood and family were. Afraid to trigger potentially painful memories, she hadn¡¯t brought up the topic since it was first mentioned, nor had her mother offered since. Keeping it tabled at the back of her mind, she had a feeling that it would come up when appropriate. After all, her mother had been extremely forward and honest since day one of waking up.

    Her eyes fluttered open as slivers of sunlight kissed her cheeks, Senna rubbed the sleep out of her eyes before rolling out of bed. After a few drowsy steps forward, she stretched and yawned loudly. She still possessed the wiry frame she had woken up with months prior, yet now she found strength and muscles beginning to fill her limbs that hadn¡¯t existed prior.

    Letting her limbs relax, she put her hands together and nodded a moment to utter a prayer that Celica had taught her to the goddess of law, Ves¡¯ra. It was a unique experience for Senna, who had been an atheist in her last life. The skeptic inside would¡¯ve ordinarily laughed about offering a prayer to any deity, but now that she lived in a world where magic and myth exist, she figured it didn¡¯t hurt to offer her politest regards.

    ¡°When in Rome, I s¡¯pose,¡± her hands fell to her side as she raised her head, flipping around to pull an outfit from her closet.

    Her outfit of choice had been predetermined, chosen in advance for this day in particular. Senna and her mother would be making a notable trip together into the city for orientation day at Brydelgard Academy, where new students would be receiving a campus tour. Tenderly grasping the clothing in her hands, she laid the tie, jacket, shirt, and skirt onto her bed, almost giving them an air of reverence. Awestruck that this day had arrived, she let herself savor the moment.

    The uniform was primarily an ashy gray, with accents of gold fabric and buttons. Nearly forgetting the beret that came with it, she fished it off the top shelf of her closet. Donning the uniform, she sat back on her bed as she pulled on the boots that Reyna had handcrafted herself for the occasion. A brief glimpse of the assembled outfit in the mirror gave her a rush of excitement that left butterflies fluttering about in her stomach.

    This shit is FIRE!

    A soft knock sounded at the door as it slowly swung open, revealing a beaming Celica. ¡°Are you rea-¡° her words fell short, as Senna turned towards her.

    ¡°Hey mom! What do you think?¡±

    Senna struck a silly pose, one foot forward with both arms posed like an Olympian.

    ¡°Wow¡­ This really takes me back. You¡¯re the spitting image of Phaedra when she was your age. You both wear the outfit a lot better than I did nearly thirty years ago. Supplies weren¡¯t really there, and they didn¡¯t take the time to make uniforms fit closer to the individual. Though, yours is going to fit even better, thanks to Reyna. Make sure you thank her today when we see her.¡±

    ¡°Auntie Reyna¡¯s coming? I feel like I¡¯ve barely heard from her lately.¡± Her eyes widened, not having seen the seamstress in at least a month.

    ¡°She¡¯s been taking dozens of uniform commissions from other families with children that will be part of the new freshman class. Regardless, she said she doesn¡¯t want to miss this and doesn¡¯t want me to go alone since Phaedra is still tied up with work on the frontier and won¡¯t be home to visit for another month.¡±

    It had been four months since Senna had awoken and she still hadn¡¯t met her sister, Phaedra. She had become a rising star of an adventuring guild known as Equinox, spending the entirety of her time helping protect frontier settlements recovering from the Threnodian War. Originally, she was supposed to have visited a week or two after Senna had left the hospital, but her work kept her occupied.

    ¡°Anyways, once you¡¯ve had breakfast we can depart for the day. We¡¯ll meet Reyna at Gejdra Square.¡±

    Senna had later learned that Gejdra Square was the same city square where she had seen the fountains depicting the mythic origin story of Enzen. She hadn¡¯t been back since her awakening, but the sights and sounds of that day still echoed in the back of her mind.

    Downstairs in the kitchen, Celica had only made a small serving of toast and eggs. Reading the mood accurately, she knew that Senna wouldn¡¯t be able to stomach much. The latter choked down the food; any other time it would be delicious, but anxiety had crept beneath her skin, leaving her nauseous. Still, she knew that low blood sugar during an all-day outing would be a mistake.

    Outside, Senna started to take deep breaths while Celica locked up the house. Somehow the thought of attending high school again was more panic inducing than anything thus far, let alone the lingering social anxiety from her past life.

    Gently slapping either side of her own face, Senna tried to pep talk the nerves away.

    ¡°It can¡¯t be worse than regular high school, I didn¡¯t even have magic there!¡±

    ¡°Plus, you don¡¯t have to stay in the dorms by yourself in a strange new city!¡± Celica chimed in, a smirk on her face.

    ¡°Yeah? What was it like attending a school like that all by yourself?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s true. When I first came here from the orphanage, I didn¡¯t know anybody and was alone in a strange new city. I was scared beyond belief; despite everything I had been through already.¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯s not too painful, will you tell me about it someday?¡± Senna asked, turning her head towards Celica as they walked. ¡°I realized awhile back that I don¡¯t really know much about you.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d love to tell you everything soon. Today, however,¡± She rested a hand atop Senna¡¯s head for a moment. ¡°Today is about you.¡±

    The journey to Gejdra Square was over in what felt like an instant. They made idle conversation as they walked, commenting on shops they¡¯d like to visit together or the occasional caf¨¦ they could get coffee together at. It was the first proper look at Enzen since Senna was discharged.

    Every so often Senna noticed a child pointing at her uniform or a nod from a smiling passerby. In her ordinary casual clothing, it wasn¡¯t something she had ever noticed before. Was the uniform a status symbol of some kind or was the academy just well regarded in general?This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

    ¡°I feel like people keep acknowledging me while wearing this uniform. Is that my imagination?¡± Senna shyly asked her mom once they moved away from a crowd of laborers.

    ¡°Many, many graduates of the academy have strived to make the world a better place. Whether it be adventurers that join guilds and help the general interests of towns and cities, or people who seek new avenues of knowledge to advance the quality of life for the people of their hometowns or city they reside in.¡±

    ¡°Sometimes this place feels like a utopia compared to where I came from¡­¡±

    ¡°I sincerely wish I could say that¡¯s true. The end of the war spawned unprecedented inroads of dialog and cooperation between the kingdoms, but it left rifts, scars, and tensions, too. Monarchs are still out of touch with their populace, nobles and tycoons hoard wealth while workers live in squalor, and there are those in the warrior class who wish they were as revered as they were during the war.¡±

    Reaching Gejdra Square, a familiar tawny woman with feline ears could be seen sitting on the stonework rim of the central fountain. Reyna was absentmindedly fiddling with her tail that was curled into her lap, watching a group of pigeons that an elderly woman was feeding. It caught Senna mildly off guard because despite the outgoing, cheerful nature of the woman, the expression on her face seemed quite somber. She didn¡¯t know if that was merely her resting facial expression or if some of the excitable nature was forced.

    Upon drawing closer, one of Reyna¡¯s ears twitched and her gaze shifted to the pair. A Cheshire grin spread across her face, leaping up and striding to embrace Celica in a hug.

    ¡°Howdy, lovelies! Purrfect weather we¡¯re having, no?¡±

    A slight breeze had been keeping the late summer heat off the stonework just enough to make the day more pleasant than the prior week had been.

    Reyna broke away from Celica¡¯s hug, sweeping Senna off her feet to give her quite the bear hug. Turning toward Senna, Reyna put a hand atop her beret. Her smile had already faded, confirming the girl¡¯s suspicions that her mood wasn¡¯t quite as cheerful as it¡¯d normally be.

    ¡°This is a big day, but it¡¯s bittersweet for us adults,¡± she gestured with a nod towards Celica. ¡°Defying all logic, your body grew while you were asleep, and your mom¡­ your family, we all missed getting to see the rest of your childhood. And look at you, it¡¯s only been four months and you¡¯ve already gotten yourself ready to attend Brydelgard.¡±

    Senna was unable to hide the wide eyed look of realization, while Celica forced a somewhat pained smile. Panicking, Reyna immediately threw up her hands.

    ¡°Sorry, sorry! I don¡¯t wanna dampen the occasion, this is supposed to be a happy day! It¡¯s just¡­¡± Her words trailed off for a moment as she scratched the back of her head, trying to find the right words to say. ¡°I guess what I¡¯m trying to say is, we¡¯re still just trying to cope with everything we¡¯ve lost.¡±

    Celica, who had been silent thus far, finally spoke.

    ¡°It¡¯s something I try not to say but it pains my heart daily. It¡¯s why your father is missing out on this day. Gods, it¡¯s why your sister is too, truthfully.¡±

    Senna said nothing, merely looking between Reyna who was avoiding eye contact, and Celica, who was staring thoughtfully at her daughter.

    I¡¯m not great with these kinda moments, I need to reassure them!

    ¡°It¡¯s not healthy to bottle these things up. These scars are suffocating beneath the armor y¡¯all donned the day you went to war, and you¡¯ve never fully taken any of it off. I know I[¡®m a living reminder of what¡¯s happened and what has been lost, but I¡¯m awake again and we can move forward. We can move forward.. and maybe learn to heal. Together.¡±\

    Although hearing Senna express such thoughtful sentiments was a bit jarring for Reyna, Celica had made a couple trips alone to see her and had explained their situation beforehand. Even after years, very little was known about the sleepers, providing a shock to many clerics and families alike. Not only did the children age into teens or teens into adults, but nearly everyone who awoke was changed, even if their memories were seemingly gone.

    Squeezing Celica¡¯s hand with a reassuring grip, Senna smiled, her auric eyes shining beneath the thin shadow her beret cast on her face. She couldn¡¯t deny that she was suffering from culture shock; not only the nature of this world, but also learning to open her heart towards others. Yet, the more time passed, the more she earnestly saw this woman as her mother.

    ¡°Someday soon I want to talk about this. With both of you. But today, today I get to see my school!¡± Her tone held a sincere cheer, as she took Reyna¡¯s hand with her free hand.

    Together, the now trio set off towards Brydelgard, taking the northern path away from the plaza towards Lunen district, where most schools, churches, and administrative organizations resided. This was Senna¡¯s very first time seeing the area, taking mental notes of the path there since she would be commuting to school daily.

    Passing through a gateway that led out of the square, Senna stepped foot into Lunen district for the first time. The stone walls that met on either side and formed the allure above were clearly from a past age of Enzen¡¯s history, as well as the gateway itself showed signs of once having had massive doors affixed to the hinges that were now laid bare. She couldn¡¯t help but wonder if this had been an interior sanctum to protect against invaders that had breached the outer walls of the city.

    Carved into the latticework on either side were elaborate designs of a dragon emitting a beacon of light from its mouth. The ball of light¡¯s rays were shining down on what appeared to be monsters and marauders, all of whom were shielding their eyes or retreating in fear. She felt safe in hazarding a guess it was either some mythical origin story or symbolism of Enzen as a light in the darkness.

    Making out faint runes on the top sliver of stonework that remained, she could roughly make out ¡°-OU- F¡ªA- JUDG---- L-E- -HEA-¡°

    On the other side of the gate, Senna shot a glance back to see if the same relief was carved into the opposite side. Instead, on the left-hand side were scholars of varying sizes examining written materials. On the right-hand side, was a maiden handing out bread and fruits to what seemed to be a starving, weary audience.

    ¡°Was that an origin story of Enzen?¡± Senna muttered aloud, to no one in particular.

    ¡°Yeah, somethin¡¯ like that I suppose.¡± Reyna halfheartedly responded.

    ¡°An origin story and a warning. According to the origin myths of Enzen, an ancient elven summoner entombed one of the seven legendary draconic aethos beneath our city. To paraphrase the legend, ¡®A life and soul were sacrificed to bind Kazuryu, legendary dragon, to protect this inner sanctum. Enter ye who would embrace the kiss of annihilation, your final judgment lies ahead.¡¯¡±

    ¡°Celica you¡¯re still such a dork¡­¡± Trying to sheepishly hide a smirk, Reyna turned to admire a row of trees that resembled figs, their verdant leaves dancing in the breeze. ¡°Your mom is a sucker for myths and legends.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s funny coming from the scaredy cat who refused to patrol the sewers because a ¡®dragon ghost¡¯ might eat her.¡± Celica retorted, a somewhat smug smile on her face. Both women began laughing, clearly having shared quite a long history together.

    Senna was about to ask how long the pair had been friends, but her curiosity was cut short, as she was awestruck by the beauty of Lunen district. The campus that lay out before them felt more akin to a forest than a city; grassy lawns were lined with various flora amidst a sea of trees. Moss covered buildings towered between the lanes, somehow blending naturally with the environment around them.

    The entire space felt surreal; plucked out of someone¡¯s ethereal imagination and planted into reality.  Somehow the buildings felt simultaneously modern and archaic, but somehow there was a tangible sense that this space was being borrowed from nature, on loan so long as it was respected. Intersection lanes were only broken up by a fountain or seating area for pedestrians.

    Snapping out of her daze, Senna realized that dozens of people were moving between the lanes, most of them heading out of sight at the end of a far lane. A number of teenagers that looked to be around her own age were walking with their family or parents, most of them in a uniform that was nearly identical to her own. Conversations filled the air like music as the crowd swelled the further down the path they traveled.

    Their path converged alongside several others onto a large avenue that rounded a corner. At the end, Brydelgard Academy loomed. Massive wrought iron doors connected to brick walls, covered in ivy and vibes swung open. The gates themselves each held a half of a dragon in the ironwork, one not unlike the archway their group had passed by earlier.

    On either side of the road, adults wearing crimson jackets over a white button up shirts, black slacks, and wearing berets lined the path. The design of the uniform was identical to Senna¡¯s and the other students, but she could assume that the colors indicated that these were staff or teachers. Multiple families nodded or waved to many of them, in return receiving equally warm greetings.

    After passing the first pair, a voice rang out in the crowd towards the trio.

    ¡°Ravager Lorenz! Nightstalker Bristlethorn!¡±

    A wide-eyed staff member rushed over to the trio and gave a deep bow to them.

    ¡°Please, please! The formalities aren¡¯t necessary!¡± Celica¡¯s cheeks flushed at the attention, waving her hands quickly to avoid attention to herself. Reyna shot a look over her shoulder, feigning ignorance as if it was a case of mistaken identity. Several bystanders looked over, eyes bright at the mention of the names.

    As the faculty member rose from their bow, they extended a hand towards a mildly shell-shocked Senna who was still standing between the pair. He was an elven man with much of his hair pulled up into a long ponytail, the left side braided elaborately. His eyes were the most brilliant azure blue she had ever witnessed, their gaze somewhat mesmerizing.

    ¡°And I presume you¡¯re Senna, daughter of the Iron Rose ravagers Celica and Petrus?¡± Beaming at Senna, who by now looked like a deer in headlights.

    Her thoughts screaming to remind her of some of the formal etiquette she had been learning, she took his hand with both hands.

    ¡°Yes, I am Senna Lorenz, it¡¯s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.¡± Giving a small bow in return.

    ¡°Let us personally escort the three of you onto the grounds, if you would allow us the opportunity!¡±

    Mother and daughter alike paled at the attention, while the tawny haired catgirl let out a laugh and nudged Celica forward.

 Sennas Compendium of Life in Messaris

    CHARACTERS</u>

    -LORENZ FAMILY-

    -<u>Senna Lorenz/Sayko Ashcaster</u>: The protagonist of the story. Senna was formerly an office worker

    named Sayko who lived on Earth until she was 33 years old, perishing in a freak accident on her way

    home from work one fateful evening. She is now inhabiting the body of Senna Lorenz, under the care of her ¡°new¡± mother, Celica Lorenz. Celica believes that perhaps Sayko and Senna have always been the same person.

    -<u>Petrus Lorenz</u>: Senna¡¯s father. He has been missing since the end of the Threnody War after

    confronting Eryx the Kronomancer in his fortress with a small army of adventurers and heroes from

    several kingdoms.

    -<u>Celica Lorenz</u>: Senna¡¯s mother. She has been living in the city of Enzen alone for several years due to

    Senna¡¯s comatose body being cared for there. She was a notable adventurer when she was younger and

    fought in the war until Senna was born. Now that Senna has awoken, she had dedicated herself to

    helping her recover from spending 6 years in a coma.

    -<u>Phaedra Lorenz</u>: Senna¡¯s older sister. She has been traveling abroad working as an adventurer to help

    protect various provincial cities during their post war reconstruction.

    -FRIENDS OF THE LORENZ FAMILY-

    -<u>Cyrrus Nylu:</u> An on call doctor and medic that helps around the city of Enzen. An old friend of Reyna and Celica that decided to bring his services to Enzen after hearing that his friends had moved there after the war.

    -<u>Reyna Grassblade</u>: A Ni¡¯Tyri (cat) woman who runs Reyna¡¯s Boutique in Enzen. She is an old comrade in arms to Celica and Petrus, having served with them for years. After the war, she wanted to be close to Celica to support her while Senna was in a coma due to Petrus being missing.

    -FACULTY/TEACHERS AT BRYDELGARD-

    <u>-Eris Linhardt:</u> She is a special education spellcasting instructor that helps students that are either behind on learning magic or struggle with casting due to health conditions.

    <u>-Melchior Scarletforge:</u> A weapon¡¯s master and former smith that helps teach combat skills and figuring out the best possible armaments for a student.

    <u>-Nivere Gullveig:</u>Headmistress of Brydelgard and a military leader of

    <u>-Zyrn Ci¡¯er</u>

    -STUDENTS AT BRYDELGARD-

    -Beryl Veldt</u>

    -Lyra Delsen</u>

    -Ry¡¯leth Terzen</u>

    -Senna Lorenz</u>

    -Zoval Celestin</u>

    -VILLAINS-

    -<u>Eryx</u>: A deceased kronomancer that had once sought to guide the world into a bright future through his mysterious understanding of semi-modern technology and infrastructure. He eventually turned mad and began a conquest of supremacy to conquer the known world, sparking a war that lasted over 25 years and nearly shattered every kingdom. Upon his death he released a final spell that separated the soul from the body of around 1-5% of the world population, causing mass death and comatose victims, known as Aporis Abjection.

    -<u>Monsignor</u>: The shadowy and mysterious patriarch of Bastogne Manor. Very little is known about him, other than he has a group of acolytes each named after particular flowers that he colloquially refers to as ¡°the garden¡±. He has sent one of them, Orchid, to Enzen to establish a base of operations to further their enigmatic goals.

    -<u>Orchid</u>: One of Monsignor¡¯s ¡°flowers¡±, formerly known as Callak. He was the victim of his city, Vrissk, being massacred during the early years of the war against Eryx for their support of the allied kingdoms. His whole family presumed dead, somewhere along the line he ended up in the care of Monsignor.

    -AETHOS-

    -<u>Rez¡¯nir</u>: An aethos that has taken an interest in Senna. They are a feline like creature about the size of a lynx.

    OTHERS

    -<u>Thiazzi Ulagarri</u>: A boy near Senna¡¯s age that she rescued after fighting off bullies harassing him in the park. Will he potentially become a new friend?

    -<u>Yula</u>: The deceased older sister of Orchid/Callak. Died keeping a Nether Dawn officer busy long enough for Callak to escape.

    DEITIES/MYTHICAL ENTITIES</u>

    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

    <u>-PANTHEON OF OFFICIALLY WORSHIPPED DEITIES-</u>

    -<u>Leviathan</u>: deity of death, undead

    -<u>Abberos</u>: deity of chaos, abominations

    -<u>Yurexia</u>: deity of hate, demos/anges

    -<u>Meltirra</u>: deity of battle, victory, honor

    -<u>Solaris</u>: deity of the sun, agriculture, and life

    -<u>Ves¡¯ra</u>: deity of order, law

    <u>Legendary Progenitors</u>

    -<u>Throrung</u>: Mythical forefather of humans

    -<u>Qualia</u>: Creator of the Qu¡¯Len, any of the peoples with animal like features

    -<u>Osira</u>: Creator of Elves

    -<u>Cren</u>: Father of Dwarves

    -<u>Atrioch</u>: First born aethos who helped shape the rest of the species out of mana in the realm of mana,

    Realms Outside the Physical Plane</u>

    -<u>Aeth</u>: Realm of the aethos governed by Atrioch, the forerunner of all aethos.

    -<u>Irador</u>: The Messarin equivalent of Hades/Elysium

    -<u>Nethyria</u>: Supposed home of the gods.

    -<u>Rasuum</u>: Where all aberrations, abominations, undead, and unnatural creatures originate from.

    Enzen/Locations within Enzen</u>

    -<u>Enzen</u>: The city of residence for the Lorenz family and where the primary events of the story are taking place. It is a fusion of nobility and elected representatives. There are around 25,000 people in the city.

    -<u>Brydelgard Academy</u>: The leading academy of the region for scholars, mages, alchemists, and professional soldiers located in Enzen.

    -<u>Euripides Sanatorium</u>: The hospice facility in Enzen for those suffering from Aporia as well as other

    unusual afflictions or maladies.

    -<u>Gejdra Square</u>: the central plaza of Enzen. It is in a central location that connects to every major district and road, sitting at the foot of the Lunen District.

    -<u>Lunen District:</u> The district immediately north of Gejdra Square. Where most education, research, and religious institutions are located. The gates that connect it has an archaic relief that references the Enzen legendary origins that reads ¡°

    Cities </u>(COUNTRY CITY IS IN)</u>

    -<u>Hague </u><u>(Tiburon)</u>: A coastal frontier city northeast of Enzen that Celica grew up in after being orphaned.

    -<u>Valermo (Tiburon):</u> Capital of Tiburon.

    -<u>Vrissk (Kulerra):</u> A city destroyed by the Nether Dawn after offering support to the allied kingdoms. Hometown of Orchid/Callak and Yula.

    COUNTRIES</u>

    Kulerra:</u> The home country that Kulerra occupies.

    Tiburon:</u> The home country that Enzen occupies.

    </a> Name of the Planet/World</u>

    Messaris</u>

    Races</u>

    -<u>Aethos</u>: Beings composed of mana that visit the mortal realm. Not unlike ¡°espers¡± from Final Fantasy VI.

    -<u>Elves</u>: Second eldest of all the sentient peoples of Messaris and the most inclined towards magic. There are several groups of elves, all markedly different in appearance based on which ¡°clan¡± they hail from.

    -<u>Dwarves</u>: The youngest of the peoples of Messaris. Although stereotypically craftsmen, many, many more are the bulk of farmers and ranchers of the world, whether it be the traditional variety in pastoral fields, as well as with fungi and living stones.

    -<u>Humans</u>: Only older than the dwarves, originally nomadic wanders that left the furthest southern deserts and formed sprinkled settlements across the continents until officially welcomed to join the territories that would become the kingdoms of today.

    -<u>Qu¡¯Len</u>: The eldest people of Messaris. Given upright sentient forms based off the wildlife of Messaris, they would be the first settlers of the first continents that raised from the vast, endless seas.

    Glossary of Terms</u>

    -<u>Aporia</u>: The status caused by the medical condition known as Aporis Abjection.

    -<u>Aporis Abjection</u>: colloquially known as ¡°the forever sleep¡±, ¡°sleeping sickness¡±, and ¡°husk syndrome¡±.

    The condition was the result of a forbidden spell discovered by Eryx, casting it in his dying moments as vengeance for his defeat by the group effort of every kingdom. 1-5% of the total world population fell under the effects of the condition, causing mass hysteria and loss amongst the peoples of Messaris.

    The condition itself causes the ject to release their soul from their body, leaving the latter in a seemingly permanent comatose state. Some sleepers have awoken, their soul seemingly returned to the ject, often suffering from partial to total amnesia.

    However, there are two fatal conditions that can arise from those suffering from Aporis Abjection.

    1) Their body dies if left exposed to the elements or they fell asleep in a precarious physical location.

    2) The sleeper awakes and is no longer the person they were, leading to an aggressive mutant. The two leading causes seem to either be the soul not fully anchoring within the ject, or worse; the wandering spirit of an aberration from Rasuum possesses the body and wreaks havoc on those in the vicinity.

    -<u>Ject</u>: The anchor in each person that ties soul to body. It also acts as the focal point for mana as well as spell casting and summoning

    -<u>Ject Mutatem</u>: When a soul and ject don¡¯t link correctly or match, resulting in a frenzied, monstrous

    state known as Ject Mutatem.

    -<u>Mana</u>: The (usually) invisible energy source that resides in all living things, acting as the medium to

    cast spells or summon aethos. Each person is born with different sized reservoirs of mana in their ject and with training and work, any individual can increase the depth of said reservoir.

    Months and Hours of the Day</u>

    Misc Measurements of Time</u>

    It¡¯s Sunrise Seft (7:15)

    It¡¯s Sunset Felz (4:45)

    It¡¯s Afternoon Zen (10:30)

    Days of the Week</u>

 Chapter 14

    With her proverbial best foot forward, Senna anxiously stepped forward to follow the man, Celica at her side while Reyna followed close behind. More of the red coated staff nodded or called out, giving the salute of Enzen. Several people in the crowd turned momentarily to see whom the staff were calling towards, but most didn¡¯t seem particularly interested otherwise.

    As they were led through the gates, Senna took her first step on the grounds that would become her school for the next several years. A brick path stretched forward toward the primary campus building, with several diverging paths branching off towards outlying buildings. The first building to their immediate right, just past the gate, was a surprisingly expansive stable. Several carriages and horses were housed, acting as the transports for VIPs and emergency medical use.

    Much like the many walkways that had broken up the sprawling park of the Lunen district, the Brydelgard campus was no different. Minus the stables, their path was flanked by a column of trees on either side that were at least thirty feet high. Senna¡¯s gaze kept wandering to the students and families bustling back and forth on the path, until the group emerged at the main courtyard of the academy.

    In the central pavilion was a marble statue of a man on horseback, raising a staff to the sky. Its regal air left Senna mildly awestruck, despite having seen several similar pieces in the city. Gathered beyond the statue was a growing crowd of pedestrians, a sea of gray uniforms with maybe two-thirds of them accompanied by parents or family of some variety.

    Scanning the crowd, Senna noticed that the school uniforms followed a similar tradition that she had seen on Earth in the past: ties of varying colors that indicated what year of school the student was in. She was quick to notice that new students were missing said accessory, while the others sported a bright banana yellow, an emerald green, or a deep, crimson red. This sparked her curiosity to what the color would be for the incoming freshman class.

    At the front of the courtyard, at the beginning of the brick path that leads into the main hall was a portable podium that was likely used for events like this. On stage were several students with yellow or red ties, happily chatting amongst themselves. Senna assumed that they were likely a student council of some sorts, as no other students attempted to join them. The crowd itself seemed to be similarly aglow with jovial faces, a hundred different conversations intertwined amongst themselves into a mass of unintelligible sound.

    Now standing at the right front flank of the audience, Celica and Reyna made small talk with the staff member, who informally introduced himself as Zyrn Ci¡¯er. Senna awkwardly stood beside her mother, too anxious to join the conversation, instead taking the time to do some people watching, admiring the diversity of the audience that had gathered for the opening ceremony. Although she recognized several faces from her neighborhood, she couldn¡¯t find her new friend Thiazzi amongst their numbers.

    More people had filled the courtyard by now, their numbers from the avenue finally beginning to taper off. Senna¡¯s heart fluttered to and fro anxiously as sweat beads started to line her palms. Despite the sunny skies overhead, she felt like she was trapped in a crowded room, her breath quivering in her lungs. Taking a deep breath in through her nose, she let it slowly exhale out her mouth, praying that her trepidation would filter out of her chest.

    Keep it together. Don¡¯t embarrass yourself again.

    Before she could mentally berate herself any further, she felt a hand slip into hers and give it a delicate squeeze. Casting a glance back, she was met with a reassuring smile from Reyna who seemingly sensed the girl¡¯s dread building. It was amazing what a single act of affirmation was capable of, as some of the tickling anxiety in Senna¡¯s chest ebbed.

    Senna had always been alone during opening ceremonies after her third year in elementary school. The memory of that day had burned itself into the back of her mind, living there rent free since.

    She had been sick to her stomach with dread about the upcoming school year, after spending most the summer with neighborhood friends. During the entrance ceremony, she had become violently ill, much to the chagrin of her parents and disgust of her classmates. Horrified embarrassment turned to tears, fleeing the scene to find a rock to hide under.

    Her parents gave almost no sympathy, stating how she had embarrassed them in front of their community. The following years, they stopped attending altogether, leaving their daughter alone for nearly all school occasions except for parent teacher conferences.

    Not that they had ever been much comfort to begin with.

    Noticing that the foot traffic from the avenue leading to the courtyard was finally tapering off, one of the student council members on stage walked towards the podium. He was a tall boy that looked at least eighteen years old with a flowing mane of red hair that was pulled up into an elegant ponytail, save for some braids on the left side. Lion-like ears at the top of his head as his tail flicked and swished excitedly.

    He waved his hand and a purple sigil appeared above what looked like a primitive microphone. As the ritual disappeared, the mic sprung to life. Clearing his throat, the boy spoke with a clear, baritone voice as a hush blanketed the audience.

    ¡°Good morning, everyone! As many of you know, my name is Ry¡¯leth Terzen, the student council president for the last two years. To all the incoming freshmen and transfer students¡­¡±

    His voice trailed off as he scanned the crowd. A sly grin spread across his face as he launched his arms upward, gesturing grandly.

    ¡°WELCOME!¡± His voice booming. The mood was electric as students and families alike cheered proudly in response. Senna remained silent, forcing a shy smile as she watched the audience grow animated. At this point, she felt Celica¡¯s hands grip her shoulders, her presence even more reassuring than Reyna.

    ¡°Welcome to Brydelgard Academy! Today marks the three hundred and forty-fourth class to step foot onto academy grounds. Another year of potential clerics, alchemists, enchanters, scholars, mages, and combat specialists that help support the communities and common clay that makes up our beautiful world! However, I¡¯ll keep this short so I don¡¯t steal any thunder from our headmistress, Nivere Gullveig. Never hesitate to seek our help with anything you need; although individuals make up a chain, we are only strong when linked together!¡±

    Applause and cheers were short lived as the audience grew silent, the boy taking a few steps back, gesturing towards the next speaker that wasn¡¯t there. Murmurs ran through the crowd while he patiently kept his arms extended, everyone staring on expectantly. Everything grew so quiet that Senna could hear a somewhat snide whisper from Reyna to Celica.

    ¡°You know she can¡¯t resist a flashy entrance.¡±

    As if her whisper had been heard, a screech rang out from the heavens above as a drake flew out from behind some buildings on a distant hill. Its blurry form sped through empty cerulean skies like a bullet, arcing down towards the school grounds on its approach.

    Every single hair on Senna¡¯s body stood on end; this was the cry of a dangerous creature, a predator to beast and person alike. About half the audience shifted warily, desperately trying to keep their eyes trained on the winged shadow in the sky. The carefree demeanor of the student council behind the podium seemed to be the only thing keeping everyone from panicking, although more than a handful of people began to back up.

    Flaring out its wings to slow down, the drake gracefully landed on a lawn behind the stage, letting out a roar as it turned to face the speechless crowd.

    Bowing its horned head, it wrapped itself up in its own wings to a degree that seemed to defy reason, before dissolving into a cloud of mist. From the center of what had been the dragon¡¯s form, a woman with silver, wispy hair and shining crimson eyes stepped out. She was wearing an outfit that resembled a three-piece suit; a white button up blouse under a cream-colored waistcoat with black accents, and form fitting slacks that matched the waistcoat. Draped over her shoulders was a blood-red officer¡¯s jacket with the emblem of their nation, Tiburon, on the left breast over her heart.

    Awed by the grand entrance, the crowd cheered as she approached the podium.

    ¡°Welcome, everyone, welcome! As Ryleth said, my name is Nivere Gullveig, and I¡¯m thrilled to be back in Enzen! And even more excited to oversee another school year at Brydelgard Academy!

    She paused for a moment, giving the audience a smile that radiated warmth.

    ¡°As you may know, I spend my summers drilling Tiburon¡¯s soldiers, especially the Cloudbursts. Yet, as much as I enjoy my work, I long for Enzen. It¡¯s not just my birthplace, it¡¯s my home. I know these streets well; I see families in this very crowd that have lived here for generations beside my own kin. I may love the sparkling, azure gulf that kisses the shores of our kingdom¡¯s capital at Valermo, but my heart yearns for the grassy seas of grain, the verdant northern forests like Argen and, most of all, to nap on the sandy banks of the Chulainn River after a day of fishing.¡±

    Senna fought back the jaded adult of her past life as she listened to the speech, sensing genuine sincerity in headmistress Gullveig¡¯s words. It wasn¡¯t unlike something you¡¯d hear a politician say back on Earth, but she was willing to give this woman the benefit of the doubt.

    Seemingly sensing what Senna was thinking, her mother whispered in her ear.

    Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°She loves grand entrances and rousing speeches, but her heart¡¯s in the right place.¡±

    Nivere continued her speech.

    ¡°Most of all, Brydelgard reflects what I love most about this city. Our school doesn¡¯t run for profit, nor does it merely exist to sustain titles or bloodlines based on some ancestor that merely got lucky and decided their bloodline was somehow divine. Anyone with enough determination, a burning spirit, and hard work can attend these halls and seek an education that will help secure not only their own future, but the future of their community, whether that be here or abroad. We embrace all who cross those gates with an earnest heart and desire to learn.¡±

    Several members of the audience clapped or cheered as Nivere patiently waited for their excitement to subside.

    ¡°To the students who will be graduating this year, congratulations! Your work will improve the world at large!¡±

    Cheers of the older students towards the front of the crowd burst out.

    ¡°To the returning students continuing their education, let us continue to work hard towards our passions and pursuits.¡±

    A vast majority of the audience roared at this, fists and excitement filling the air.

    ¡°And, most of all, to the newest students¡­ Welcome to our beloved academy! Please, explore the grounds with your family and friends, be sure to check the rosters for your assigned classes posted in the main hall, and most importantly, we will see you this upcoming Muirtanz when the new semester begins!¡±

    The entire audience was now clapping or cheering, headmistress Gullveig¡¯s face glowing as she bowed to their numbers. The audience began to file out of the space in every direction as they eagerly sought their class assignments and to get a lay of the land for the campus. Meanwhile, Senna turned to face Celica and Reyna.

    Hands on the back of her head with a carefree grin plastered across her face, Reyna laughed.

    ¡°Can you believe how much I used to tease her? The quiet bookworm became quite the ferocious soldier, let alone the headmaster of a prestigious school.¡±

    Celica gave a pained smile in response. ¡°We were in the same literature club while we were here and had the same taste in books. I can¡¯t really tease her.¡±

    Senna couldn¡¯t help but laugh at their exchange, throwing her own comment in.

    ¡°Of course you both know her. I¡¯m beginning to think the list of people you don¡¯t know is shorter.¡±

    ¡°In our defense, we weren¡¯t particularly close, and she was a year older to boot.¡± Reyna responded, reminiscing on memories of the past.

    ¡°Regardless¡­¡± Senna started nervously, ¡°Should we see what class I¡¯m assigned to and maybe take a tour of the campus?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯d love to show you around, angel. We already know what class you¡¯ll be in, but it¡¯s kind of a tradition to go see where you¡¯re assigned.¡± Celica beamed at her. It was dawning on Senna how much her mother had been looking forward to this day.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you walk in with the students and go look at your class roster? We¡¯ll wait here for you.¡±

    Swallowing the knot in her throat, Senna nodded, and turned towards the main entrance of the school building. The campus resembled something she would have read in a fantasy novel, yet actually standing there felt bizarre. The centuries-old structures had probably seen countless thousands of students and, for a brief moment, she felt like just another face that would be lost in time¡¯s memory.

    Although the courtyard had been congested for the opening speeches, people were now dispersing onto the various paths that lead around the campus. New students that still lingered began to file towards the main hall, as Senna noticed most of them were missing the tie that distinguished their grade. Feeling less claustrophobic now, Senna followed the other students, a cautious eager energy filling her legs.

    The foyer of the main hall was somehow plainer than she expected. Immediately to her right-hand side, there was a reception desk with a mailroom behind it, several staff members leafing through letters and documents.

    Even in a fantasy world, there¡¯s paperwork to do¡­

    To the left-hand side was a room with an iron barred door, a desk, and rows of lockers behind it. Senna couldn¡¯t fathom what the purpose of the room was, her panicked thoughts swirling wildly, believing it to have some kind of disciplinarian purpose. Her concerns were immediately alleviated as a plaque indicated it was a storage room where training weapons were kept under lock, key, and strict supervision.

    Ahead, was the hallway that leads to the student commons area, the nurse¡¯s office, and the message boards where announcements, club flyers, and class rosters were posted. Gathered around the postings was a half-circle of new students, chattering amongst themselves about where they had been assigned. Students were quickly jotting down their assignment, before stepping away to explore the building.

    Senna took her time waiting for some of the students to leave before comfortably approaching the board.

    Let¡¯s see¡­ It looks like there are seven classes listed. I hope I¡¯m three or seven, those are my lucky numbers!

    Next to every designated class number was the name of the homeroom teacher overseeing it, with each class having about twenty to twenty-five students. One by one, Senna scanned each class and roster, but each time she realized that her name wasn¡¯t listed. As she approached the final class, her heart began to sink, unable to find her own name.

    There¡¯s got to be a mistake, right?

    Reviewing the list again, she slowed down to make sure that she hadn¡¯t missed her own name somewhere in the excitement. Yet, as she rechecked the list of first year students, her name remained missing. Beside the list there were other postings for older students, detailing honors placements, special field research teams, and internships with local trade and adventuring guilds. Finally, towards the bottom of the posting, was a class roster.

    Alternative Learning Program - Class A (First Floor, Room 109)

    Spellcasting Instructor: Eris Linhardt

    Weapon Mastery Trainer: Melchior Scarletforge

    Teacher for Scholarly Academics: Zyrn Ci¡¯er

    Students:

    - Lyra Delsen

    - Senna Lorenz

    - Beryl Veldt

    - Zoval Celestin

    Alternative Learning Program? I wonder if that¡¯s a special placement class for someone that¡¯s been in a coma like I was¡­

    Senna retrieved a piece of note paper and scrawled the information down as quickly as she could, not wanting to keep her mother waiting. Heading back out the way she came in, she couldn¡¯t help but notice the excitement that hung in the air as a new school year was about to start. Unlike her school years on Earth, everyone here seemed ecstatic to be there.

    Standing in the courtyard once more, Celica and Reyna were sitting on a bench having a casual conversation. Zyrn had already left, and they both waved and stood up as Senna approached.

    ¡°Did you get your class assignment?¡± Celica smiled, clearly loving every part of this milestone.

    ¡°Yeah, I did! I couldn¡¯t find my name on any of the seven classes, but then saw I¡¯m part of a different class. Something called an ¡®Alternative Learning Program¡¯?¡±

    ¡°Yes, while you were inside, Zyrn was speaking to us about that.¡±

    ¡°Is that a class for kids who were sleepers like me?¡± Senna asked, a genuine curiosity in her tone. She couldn¡¯t imagine that she was some child prodigy that was already ahead of the curve, so assumed it must be for those in similar situations as hers.

    ¡°Not just sleepers, but also those who may have disabilities, medical conditions, or just learn differently than others. Regardless of circumstance, this school and most of our city believes in uplifting everyone who wants to be helped. Leaving others behind and setting some arbitrary standard to hold everyone against is a silent cruelty for those who simply don¡¯t fit said standards.¡±

    Senna¡¯s facial expression remained neutral, but she felt blindsided by a community that truly sought to care for their own people.

    ¡°I spoke with the school about a week ago, and although you¡¯ve been working hard to learn how to read and write, you¡¯re still years behind your peers in the academics of Messaris as well as spellcasting and combat. We both felt like this would be the best fit for you.¡±

    Unable to argue with the logic of it, as the truth was undeniable. Months of laborious study had resulted in a basic comprehension of their world, but despite being fourteen and starting an equivalent to high school, she was academically closer to a nine-year-old outside of math and basic sciences.

    Processing all of it, Senna shook her head.

    ¡°No, that makes complete sense. Truth be told, I¡¯m just thankful that I¡¯m privileged enough to live in a place where people will take the time to get me caught up with everyone else. I can¡¯t imagine everyone in the world is that fortunate.¡±

    Before Celica could respond, Reyna ruffled Senna¡¯s hair with a hand.

    ¡°Yer a good kid, you know? I know¡­ I know you¡¯re not necessarily an ordinary kid, but your heart and head are where they should be. It¡¯s not fair, but you¡¯re making the most of it.¡±

    Celica wore a thoughtful expression before nodding in agreement.

    ¡°You¡¯ve always taken things in stride, even before you fell asleep. I still see my child in you regardless of what life throws at you.¡±

    She raised a hand to caress her daughter¡¯s cheek, before the latter turned away, blushing in embarrassment.

    ¡°We¡¯re in public, mom!¡± Her cheeks were momentarily scarlet, a hint of a smile betraying the outburst.

    ¡°Anyways, I¡¯m a little too stressed to be upset about something I have no control over like that. Catching up is going to be a mountain of work, I just hope my teachers can be patient with me.¡±

    ¡°They will be, they¡¯re specialists for exactly this sort of situation. If they aren¡¯t, I¡¯ll channel the fires of Rasuum itself over it!¡±

    Reyna immediately belted out a laugh.

    ¡°For someone that¡¯s so strong, your threats don¡¯t sound particularly threatening!¡±

    Senna couldn¡¯t help but privately concur.

    ¡°Yeah¡­ It feels weird hearing such a kind hearted person make threats.¡±

    Slightly embarrassed, Celica turned away, trying to save face.

    ¡°Well, shall we explore the campus a bit and after I¡¯ll make lunch for everyone?¡±

    Senna and Reyna readily agreed to the plan, and the trio set out to give Senna a tour of the school. The latter ignored the butterflies in her stomach, knowing that the following week was her first week of school in over fifteen years.

 Chapter 15

    As arrows of sunlight began piercing the veil of night, Senna clumsily fumbled in the dark with her school uniform, drowsiness dripping from her eyes. Celica had woken her about ten minutes prior, sending her nearly reeling out of bed in shock. It was probably one of the only mornings that the girl had woken up before seven AM.

    The only thing worse than forced social interactions is waking up before noon. Her eyes half closed, Senna awkwardly brushed the knots out of her thick hair before tying it up into a high ponytail and donning the Brydelgard beret.

    After the tour of the academy grounds, Reyna had made it a point to drag Senna out shopping to buy her a book bag and some basic school supplies. The bag she chose ended up being rather plain in design, focusing on function not form.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you want something cuter?! Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re going to be as much of a tomboy as your mom was!¡± Reyna balked at the choice.

    Cheeks dusted with annoyance; Senna stomped a single foot forward.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to be living in textbooks to make up for six years of lost time! ¡®Cute¡¯ isn¡¯t going to have the backbone for how many dead trees I¡¯ll be carrying around!¡±

    ¡°Ladies¡­ It¡¯s just a bag-¡± A sweat bead ran down Celica¡¯s temple as her daughter and the catgirl bickered playfully. It was then that the latter¡¯s comment fully sank in.

    ¡°Wait a minute, what do you mean by that, Reyna? What¡¯s wrong with being a tomboy?¡± Celica¡¯s eyes were closed, her smile matching a shared note of annoyance with her daughter.

    ¡°S¡¯nothing wrong with being a tomboy if you¡¯re like me! Both of you are too pretty to be sleepin¡¯ on such natural beauty!¡±

    Doubling down on her decision, Senna chose a bag that was popular with couriers and messengers in the city. It was an admittedly rather plain, tan leather bag with reinforced straps triple stitched into the body. Yet, it somehow fit Senna¡¯s school uniform rather well. Senna¡¯s arms tightened around the choice as she pulled it against her chest.

    ¡°This is the bag for me! Plus, I don¡¯t wanna stand out too much!¡±

    Reyna¡¯s cheeks puffed slightly as an exasperated sigh of defeat sounded out.

    ¡°Fine, fine! When you¡¯re ready to be the most fashionable student at school, y¡¯all know where

    to find me.¡± Reyna winked as she slunk past towards the counter, her wallet out.

    Catching a glimpse of the price, Senna¡¯s stomach sank into her shoes. She flipped around, trying

    her best to quietly whisper to Celica.

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ that¡¯s not cheap, mom!¡±

    ¡°I know, but she¡¯s been looking forward to this as much as I have. I know you¡¯re not used to this, but this is what being family means. We all pitch in towards each other¡¯s happiness, even if we¡¯re only tied by fate and not blood. Besides¡­¡±

    Celica¡¯s eyes clouded for a moment.

    ¡°She only has us and the friends we¡¯ve made. ¡®Auntie Reyna¡¯ isn¡¯t just a nickname for her, she sincerely sees you as a niece.¡±

    Swallowing a small knot of guilt that had formed in her throat, Senna sidestepped her mom and darted towards Reyna who was making small talk with the clerk behind a counter. She threw her arms around the woman from behind, squeezing her gently and whispered towards her ears.

    ¡°Thank you, Auntie Reyna! I love you¡­¡±

    Although the words felt so foreign in her mouth, they came out naturally, before she had fully processed what she wanted to say. Reyna turned and ruffled Senna¡¯s hair, a smile warmer than a summer day meeting her eyes.

    ¡°Make us all proud, kiddo.¡±

    The tour of the campus kept flashing through her thoughts, as Senna absentmindedly set down the brush on her wooden vanity. Taking a deep breath, she straightened her beret and turned to walk out of the bedroom.

    Downstairs, she peeked into the kitchen to see Celica had made a small breakfast for her.

    Ordinarily the food would stand no chance against her appetite, but the anxiety of her first day at Brydelgard looming left her stomach in knots. A quick glance at the portion size suggested her mom had predicted the anxiousness.

    ¡°How¡¯re you holding up, dear?¡±

    Her voice was gentle, aiming to keep her tone calm to not rouse Senna¡¯s anxiety any further than it already was.

    ¡°Excited. So much so that the world is spinning, and I could melt into a puddle at any time.¡±

    She forced a pained smile, trying to convince her own heart that beating out of her rib cage wouldn¡¯t be conducive for a good first day of school.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, angel. I promise you can get through this. Try to take a bite or two, if you can.¡±

    Taking a seat, Senna took a few minutes to pick at the eggs and begrudgingly eat a piece of bacon. Her stomach did a somersault and she decided to cut her losses and try to nibble at a piece of toast on her way to school. She quickly set the plate in the sink and casually threw her bag¡¯s straps over her shoulders.

    ¡°You don¡¯t have to walk me all the way there, I know you have errands to get done.¡±

    Celica chuckled, waving the idea aside with a hand.

    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry! Your sister said she¡¯d die of embarrassment if her friends saw her getting walked to school by her mom, so I assumed you¡¯d feel the same.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t really care what people think¡­ at least, not about that. I just know I gotta leave the nest and my comfort zone.¡±

    ¡°Comfort zone?¡±

    Celica¡¯s eyes lit up; she had been enjoying learning idioms from Earth.

    ¡°It¡¯s a saying we use to describe a space you find familiar or safe, and that sometimes you can really miss out on things if you refuse to leave that safety. Plus, it¡¯s such a simple thing, isn¡¯t it? Walking to school, that is.¡±

    ¡°We have a similar saying that¡¯s along the lines of ¡®the t¡¯resk pulls the plow at its own pace, and the farmer will sow the grain once it does.¡¯ In other words, sometimes things may not move at the pace others demand, but as long as we reach the destination, that¡¯s all that matters.¡±

    Senna had learned that t¡¯resks¡¯ were a beast of burden not unlike an ox, but even larger and twice as strong. A popular beast of burden known for their gentle nature and somewhat timid demeanor, often slow to work unless guided by a steady hand.

    ¡°Well, shall we depart?¡±

    Celica¡¯s hand gave Senna¡¯s shoulder a reassuring squeeze.

    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s.¡±

    Out of the door and into the shadows of a cool summer morning, the pair made idle small talk as Celica reminisced on her own school days decades prior. She had been a quiet child that hadn¡¯t ever known a place that truly felt like her own, that is, until her second year at Brydelgard. That is where she had met Reyna, as well as several others, including her future husband, Petrus.

    Senna didn¡¯t interrupt once, basking in a rare moment when Celica spoke in depth about the past. The streets had still been quiet around their neighborhood, but that silence quickly dissolved into the familiar din of the market and central plaza the farther they journeyed away from home. A clock tower signaled that it was a quarter till eight in the morning, giving her a healthy forty-five minutes before class began.

    Stopping at the gates leading to the Lunen district, Celica and Senna turned to say their goodbyes for the day. The former nudged her daughter forward to give her a quick head and kiss on the head.

    ¡°Do your best today. I don¡¯t ever expect perfection, just that you always try.¡±

    With a nod and a quick wave, Senna walked through the gates into the Lunen district, ready to face her first day.

    --

    At the gates of Brydelgard, several staff members wore that same red uniform that Zyrn Ci¡¯er was wearing on orientation day. They were greeting students warmly as they entered the campus as they made idle conversation under the last warmth the summer sun had to offer. Zyrn himself was amongst them, and called out merrily to Senna, approaching her as he waved.

    ¡°Good morning, Miss Lorenz!¡±

    Immediately becoming a deer in headlights at being acknowledged, Senna¡¯s tired brain stumbled over her words.

    ¡°Oh! Uh.. Morin¡¯, Zyrn, er¡­¡± She immediately remembered her manners hiding beneath the layer of morning grogginess. ¡°I mean, Mister Ci¡¯er!¡± she promptly corrected herself, adding a formal bow

    to the second greeting.

    Chuckling at her fumbled response, Zyrn casually waved his hand.

    ¡°I guess technically it¡¯ll be ¡®professor¡¯ Ci¡¯er for you, but I¡¯m not particularly fussed about honorifics. Besides, your mother is a friend to some of the staff here, and I¡¯d consider her a friend myself at this point. I even taught her how to write nearly thirty years ago!¡±

    You taught her how to write¡­ nearly thirty years ago?! Just how old IS this guy!?

    A withering smile of anxiety stretched thinly across her face as she processed the statement. She thanked whatever Messarin gods were listening for the man to be so patient with her bumbling attempts at formality. Her only hope was that her face wasn¡¯t betraying her inner thoughts to everyone around.

    ¡°But that¡¯s a story for another day. Regardless, I¡¯ll be seeing you in class in about half an hour or so. Did you need help finding the classroom?¡± His smile was gentle, reminding her vaguely of Celica¡¯s. ¡°No, that¡¯s fine, I remember where it is! See you there!¡±

    Unsure of what degree of formality professors expected, she gave a response that was deeper than a nod but not quite another bow before immediately shuffling off towards the courtyard. Senna was hoping she could manage to avoid putting her foot in her mouth today, deciding to err on the side of caution with any social interactions she¡¯d find herself in.

    Once inside the main hall, she took a pair of turns, first right at the bulletin board, then left a short way further than that, following the hall until the end. The last room on the right beside an exit was a classroom with a plaque above the door that read ¡°109¡±. A sturdy door loomed beneath it, a heavily tarnished brass handle affixed to the front.

    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    Taking a deep breath, Senna counted to four, before exhaling and pulling the handle. Although the door was weighted, it moved without too much resistance, revealing the classroom behind it. As she crossed the threshold, she saw a room that wasn¡¯t a far cry different from the world she left behind.

    A pair of large, oaken desks were positioned side by side at the front of the room, with matching chairs tucked into each. Behind them was a chalkboard, and to the left was four student desks, none of which were currently occupied. Beyond them was a compounding table that Senna had learned was for alchemy and potion making.

    Alone in the quiet room, she let out a small sigh before sitting down in the back left seat. The desk itself was very similar to the traditional desks on Earth where you lifted the top to find storage beneath. Checking the compartment, she retrieved a pencil-like object that had been long forgotten by the previous occupant. Pulling a notebook out of her bag, she set it on the ground beside her desk.

    Several minutes passed as she quietly gazed at her own lap, trying to focus on calming her thoughts before the first set of footsteps found their way into the room. Senna looked up to see an androgynous person wearing the issued slacks and button up, but with a long, grey scarf wrapped around their neck, obscuring the lower half of their face, its twin tails hanging down their backs. They brushed aside their lavender, jaw length hair to stare at the seated girl for a moment.

    They had silver, shining eyes that were a stark contrast to their almond complexion. Offering a small wave, they nodded at Senna before taking a seat at the front right desk. The girl returned the wave and turned her gaze now towards a window on the left side of the room.

    The next student that entered was a tall boy with the sides of his head shaved and his chestnut brown hair pulled into a top knot that accented the wolf-life ears on the top of his head. He looked like he was powerfully built from a lifetime of hard work, his face displaying a shockingly gentle kindness behind his dark eyes. Following him was a girl with mossy greenish hair that was braided on one side, the other wavy and free flowing down to her shoulders. Senna immediately noticed her elven ears that were nearly identical to professor Ci¡¯er¡¯s.

    The boy was clearly trying to decide on which of the two remaining seats to choose, but the elf girl left him no choice as she darted toward the seat beside Senna. He shrugged, not particularly fussed by the final option, and sat beside the scarfed individual.

    Trying to be polite, Senna turned and smiled at the girl, and gave a small wave. Without missing a beat, the girl grinned at Senna.

    ¡°Heya, I¡¯m Lyra. Lyra Delsen! What¡¯s your name?¡± Lyra extended a hand outward, offering the universal greeting of a handshake. Likewise, a country drawl hung off her voice, and it seemed having a rural accent was as universal as the handshake she was currently offering.

    ¡°Senna Lorenz. Nice to meet you!¡±

    Accepting the handshake, she tried her best to give a natural smile in response. Smiling on command was one of Senna¡¯s greatest weaknesses, alongside social gatherings and holding a nine to five job. Yet, she persevered.

    The tall boy turned and gave a grin to them both.

    ¡°Nice to meet you ladies, I¡¯m Zoval Celestin! Is this your first year at Brydelgard?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, it is. I¡¯m only fourteen so apparently, I¡¯m the right age to start my first year here.¡± Senna kept things short, not wanting to explain her situation unless asked.

    Lyra delicately butted in, eager to join the conversation.

    ¡°Same story here, I turn fifteen in a couple weeks. I was originally supposed to just attend a regular school in town, but due to my natural talent with magic, Brydelgard let me in on an exception!¡± Lyra grinned with her fists against her sides looking extremely proud of her accomplishment.

    ¡°Wow, same for all of us, huh? What about you?¡± Zoval turned to the silent fourth student, who Senna assumed was Beryl Veldt per the class roster.

    Beryl silently blinked at the three some of them, Senna trying to avoid staring while Lyra and Zoval looked on expectantly. They raised a flat hand perpendicular to their face to apologize, before they made several gestures in the air, their hand beginning to faintly glow.

    Holding up their right index finger, the glowing light seemed to focus on the fingertip, as they began making writing gestures. Senna nearly jumped, their finger suddenly becoming a marker on a transparent whiteboard, as words filled the air. After several seconds, Beryl finished a short sentence, followed by a flick of their wrist that turned the words around to be readable to the others.

    I AM BERYL VELDT. NICE TO MEET YOU. PLEASE BE PATIENT, I HAVE TROUBLE SPEAKING.

    Zoval waved his hand and immediately spoke as the words faded from sight.

    ¡°No worries, we all get shy!¡± Zoval gently clapped his palm on Beryl¡¯s shoulder.

    Furrowing their brow for a moment in response, Beryl slowly shook their head. Signing more words in the air, they once more flipped their figurative writing board.

    ALTHOUGH I CAN SPEAK, IT IS LIMITED DUE TO AN INJURY.

    Senna was frantically trying to translate the writing but was able to understand the basic gist of the words. It helped that Beryl also kept their words simple and to the point. Zoval immediately blushed, embarrassed at the assumption he had made, awkwardly apologizing.

    Beryl simply shook their head and gave a thumbs up to Zoval as if to say ¡°no worries¡± about the misunderstanding. Lyra, however, immediately offered her own help.

    ¡°Well, I ain¡¯t afraid of being loud or talkative enough for two, if yuh ever need me to speak up

    for yuh, just say¡­er, write the word!¡±

    Senna quietly giggled, noticing that the more excitable Lyra became, the more of a twang filled her voice. It was rather endearing and wasn¡¯t something she¡¯d ordinarily take the time to notice in another person. It had only been a few short minutes, but she felt relieved to see her classmates seemed like sincerely kind people.

    A bell rang through the school, likely some kind of spell as Senna couldn¡¯t see any speakers like in a modern school building. Almost on perfect cue, the door to the classroom swung open, and three professors walked into the room. Leading the group was Zyrn, his demeanor rather jovial and carefree as he waved at the four students.

    The next one to enter behind him was a thin Qu¡¯Len woman that was a head taller than Senna with a pair of porcelain white antlers emerging from her scalp facing down and back, with deer-like ears occasionally twitching. Her hair was a rich maroon with several striking gold highlights scattered through the front. Warm sepia eyes inquisitively scanned the students in the room, as if assessing each one.

    Lastly, taking up the rear, was a Dwarf man with a chest length raven colored beard and braided hair to match that reached beyond his shoulders. He was built rather sturdily as Senna would expect of a Dwarf, but she was caught off guard by the cool icy eyes peering through each of them.

    As the door gently swung shut behind them, Zyrn stepped forward to greet the class.

    ¡°Welcome new students! I¡¯m professor Zyrn Ci¡¯er. I¡¯ve been teaching academics here at Brydelgard for about sixty years. I¡¯m especially fond of working in smaller settings with students who may have different needs or require more time one on one with a professor. Both our city and the academy don¡¯t believe that education should be one size fits all for the incredibly diverse student body that society has to offer us.¡±

    Giving the students a moment to absorb the sentiment, he continued. ¡°Each of you is more than qualified to be here and have the same opportunities as everyone else. However, things beyond your control have placed challenges on each one of you that could¡¯ve otherwise denied you this opportunity. Some would say these inequalities are a part of life and that ¡®life isn¡¯t fair,¡¯ but I think that¡¯s a cop out for weak people who benefit from keeping the playing field imbalanced. So long as you enter this classroom with a genuine desire to learn, I will bend over backwards to work with you towards your goals.¡±

    ¡°But! That¡¯s enough rambling from me! I¡¯ll let the other instructors introduce themselves.¡±

    The dwarf man cleared his throat, stepping forward. ¡°Professor Ci¡¯er and I see eye to eye on that matter. Anyways, my name is Melchior Scarletforge, I hail from the Brenziah Hills in the southeast. My family line made various arms for the noble family that owns the land, back when they were still just Brens. I¡¯ll be your weapons and combat instructor. For those of you here who want weapons and martial training, I¡¯ll be yer man.¡±

    Both men turned towards the woman that had accompanied them. She was staring longingly out the windows at the path beside the building as the sunlight lit up hair.

    ¡°Um¡­ Eris?¡± Zyrn asked as politely as he could muster.

    ¡°Oh!¡± The woman spun around in place, a dreamy look washing away from her eyes. ¡°Is it my turn already?¡±

    Chuckling, Zyrn nodded while Melchior scoffed.

    ¡°Well then, my name is Eris Linhardt. I¡¯m a Qu¡¯Len from the Thornbriar clan in the plains north of the kingdom. I was a natural at the shamanic magic native to my people but was dazzled by different schools of magic that travelers possessed and came to Enzen to learn more about every school of magic I could. I¡¯ll be your tutor in all things related to spellcasting! I¡¯m especially excited because I understand that one of you has never cast a spell before!¡±

    As the other three students looked between each other, Lyra and Zoval let out whispers of shock about how someone could be so completely unfamiliar with magic.

    Zyrn raised a hand to politely hush the pair, before speaking once more..

    ¡°Indeed, Miss Linhardt is a savant when it comes to learning new forms of magic. She could easily be amongst the nation¡¯s leading mages, but she prefers a humbler life of teaching.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know about that¡­ but I do think it¡¯s more fulfilling to serve the interests of the common person over the curiosities of scholars who can¡¯t see beyond their own nose.¡±

    Another awkward chuckle fell from Zyrn¡¯s lips before continuing.

    ¡°With that said, why don¡¯t each of you introduce yourselves!¡±

    Ah yes, the worst part of school. Being perceived. Senna was about to raise her hand to go first, but Zoval beat her to the punch.

    ¡°Hey everyone, the name¡¯s Zoval Celestin. My family are a ranch family from just outside the city walls, and outside of school I help them with herding and shearing sheep. I¡¯ve wanted to learn how to be a caster and get formal martial training, but I suffer from Mana Rage, so that¡¯s a bit of a tough one for me. Brydelgard told my family they¡¯d help me learn to overcome the condition, so I thought I¡¯d give it a try!¡±

    Zyrn smiled and gave a small bow to Zoval. Giving Senna a subtle glance, he spoke.

    ¡°For those who may not know, Mana Rage is a condition where the body either can¡¯t properly regulate how much mana it focuses into a spell. It can turn mundane spells volatile and leave the caster far more fatigued than they should be.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯d be surprised at how much barrier magic can make herdin¡¯ sheep easier, but after I accidentally launched a ram thirty feet, I was banned from casting anymore spells.¡±

    Melchior nearly choked on a flask of water he took off his belt, while Eris looked on with great curiosity at the boy¡¯s woes.

    ¡°Oh, and my friends at the ranch call me ¡®Zo¡¯, so feel free to call me that!¡±

    Sitting back down, Zyrn mouthed a ¡®thank you¡¯ at the boy before eagerly awaiting the next student. A small sigh escaped Beryl, as they stood up and began scrawling their magical subtitles.

    I AM BERYL VELDT. I HAVE TROUBLE SPEAKING SO I WANT TO LEARN SPELLCASTING WITH HAND SIGNS. YOU ALL SEEM LOVELY.

    Eris¡¯ eyes were practically shining with an eager zest at two students that had precarious situations with magic. Senna couldn¡¯t tell if she was truly that excited over helping students learn the casting arts, or if she was excited about a challenge.

    In harmony with Beryl sitting, Senna slowly rose to her feet.

    ¡°H-hi¡­¡± She stared at her feet and took a deep breath before raising her eyes to meet the others in the room.

    ¡°I¡¯m Senna Lorenz. I was a victim of the sleeping sickness from Eryx, so I¡¯ve been asleep for the last six years. I only recently awoke a little over four months ago with no memories of my life before the sickness. I¡¯ve been spending the entire summer learning how to read and write, so please be patient with me, I¡¯m really trying my best.¡±

    The entire room fell silent, enough so that a pin falling to the floor could¡¯ve been heard. Six pairs of eyes were on her, their faces a mix of pity, sadness, and surprise. Senna¡¯s eyes watered, embarrassment rising even though there was nothing to be ashamed of.

    She hated it. The feeling of transfixed stares. The tension of silence. Not knowing what they were all thinking.

    ¡°I also seem to be a summoner. I don¡¯t even know where to begin with harnessing that power, but I¡¯d love to learn how to use a sword, too.¡±

    Each of the teachers sensed Senna¡¯s discomfort and immediately leapt to her aid.

    ¡°A spear is a beginner¡¯s tool for a casual soldier, but a sword is where our spirits shine, lass. I¡¯ll gladly have you swinging with the best of ¡®em!¡±

    ¡°I have NEVER gotten to work with a student who can summon! Zyrn this class is going to be INCREDIBLE¡±

    There was practically fire in Eris¡¯ eyes at this point, pumping a fist in excitement as Zyrn tried to calm her down. Zoval nodded thoughtfully at Senna as Beryl wrote more words in the air.

    I APOLOGIZE, I DIDN¡¯T KNOW. I WILL KEEP SENTENCES SIMPLE TO HELP.

    Although most of their face was obscured, Beryl had a shine in their eyes that seemed to be hiding a smile. Senna mouthed words of thanks in return, smiling at the sincere kindness. Senna mentally wiped the sweat from her brow, wanting to thank the teachers for stepping in as she took a seat. Lyra in turn rose to her feet, striking a pose as she introduced herself.

    ¡°The name¡¯s Lyra Delsen! I¡¯m already ahead of the curve for my age with casting, but I¡¯m kinda.. uh¡­ I¡¯m not great with books. The words get jumbled in my head as I read and due to a condition I¡¯ve had since I was a kid, I can get winded real easy. I¡¯ve been told that with physical therapy and certain potions, I can manage it, so that¡¯s what I¡¯m here for!¡±

    Melchior folded his arms and nodded.

    ¡°I can be patient with yuh, lass. Zyrn and I dabble in alchemy quite a bit together, we¡¯ll be sure to have you hit the ground runnin¡¯!¡±

    With the introductions done, Zyrn clapped his hands together. ¡°Thank you all for feeling comfortable enough to share why you¡¯re in this class. It takes bravery to be open to strangers, let alone many people don¡¯t make time for those in more difficult circumstances. Today we¡¯ll keep lessons simple and form long term goals for each of you, as well as figure out getting weapons and texts you¡¯ll need for this school year.¡±

    Her eyes dried and the knot in her stomach untying itself, Senna smiled to herself. In the depths of her soul, she knew this academy would become a home away from home.