"A: The Dragon Wagon reports that they've accomplished their objectives with the rangers. The eastern forest has been cleared. C: Good. That should be that segment of the docket resolved. Anything else important? A: Yes sir. Furious Angels from Arteria and Diviners of Ruin from Gratia both report an altercation with the Imperial Navy. C: The Imperial Navy? What about? They're clearly alive enough to report it. So, no hostilities, I presume? A: No sir. But they were travelling with The Lily Knights. C: That's the… A: The elf's crew. We can assume that the objective was the new member they added. C: And their report? A: They were pretty hush about the whole thing. Just a quick mission accomplished after meeting with the new Gratian. No news. C: Hells, as if they aren't enough trouble already. Have [Redacted] keep an eye on them. A request from me. "

- Meeting Notes, Adventurers Guild, Arterian Branch, "Discussion Between Clerk Arayln and Vice Guildmaster"

Sophie was exhausted. Diplomatic dealings and intrigue required a lot of concentration and effort. While her muscles weren't sore in the same way that standard adventuring often left her. She was still unnecessarily tense and stiff. She didn't realize just how much posturing she had needed to do the past weeks.

Her head lolled against the seat and she let herself roll with the rocking of the ferry. By her side, Lucinia was busy napping, catching a few stray moments of rest born from the lack of good sleep on cheap merchant vessel bunks. Across the aisle from them, Mila had her brows furrowed while staring dead ahead. She was a little sickly but far more healthy and full of vigor than the days they spent on the open sea. Behind Mila were Elaria and Raylani, the two muttering about something until the dark elf casually gestured towards Sophie.

Her sister immediately looked over and put on a face, forcing Sophie to look away lest she chuckled and woke her comrade. Now that she was glancing out the window and over the Bay of Arteria once more, she came to respect this little path that she had so often taken just a little more. It was safe, protected, and a legion of warships that held vigil over it. Ones that likely wouldn't forcefully board and almost just start blasting away.

She sighed softly. The past two days had been a rather glum affair. Lucinia had to come to terms that something succession related was likely taking place at her home was no easy task. For in spite of everything, Sophie understood that she too, had a strong sense of duty. The same that had seen her staunchly advocate for peace even at her own expense. A sacrifice she took to send the message out. The same duty that now beckoned to her with a response left unanswered thanks to Elaria's favor. She understood that because she was much the same as her, a strong if potentially misguided sense of duty. Maybe that's why she can even stand me. Though…

Sophie frowned. No, wait. She's kind enough to the Calnodel's or Miraevie. The tit. Knowing that she was sleeping, Sophie stuck her tongue out at her, a jab at the unfairness on display.

Still, Lucinia had briefed them for the most part about the matters at hand. Sinlar was the most active of the Imperial royal family. The one also heading the campaign against Abenstadt and potentially Arteria. If he wanted her, then he was trying to secure a position for a bigger political play that would either have her playing a martyr or a propaganda mouthpiece. Neither of which Lucinia was particularly enthused about.

Thankfully, other members were generally more wary, with Prince Carus who also attends the Academy being the most sympathetic to Lucinia's cause and possibly even the reason she got off so lightly with the minister. Or so she assumed. He was, in her words, 'a good one'.

What Sophie did understand was that they'd have to keep an eye out for Traxian interference moving forward. A problem that seemed almost too large to prepare or worry about. After all, if the Empire really wanted something, out of all her foes so far, they'd definitely have all the ways and means that they could afford to try and get it. The best her little group could do was simply to be ready to react.

Thankfully, with the Academy already on alert after last time. And Arteria in general was just being far more guarded after the recent demonic outbreak. Their safety within city limits were thus within acceptable limits. Mila also assured her that the church wouldn't approve of the Traxians acting so boldly, at least, without warning signs.

What a mess, huh? Sophie chuckled quietly to herself.

At least everyone seemed markedly happier the moment they docked in Arteria and transferred to the ferry. Like a chapter of a book coming to a close, a chance to relax and unwind a little.

As for herself, her main worry lay with the information that Pyra had told her about. Of another family member secreted away in the Frostwind Mountains. Ary's homeland.

Sophie smiled. She imagined cuddling her girlfriend again, the cozy little dorm they shared. Gratia had been a slog, even more so with how much travelling they had to do. In contrast, it felt far more comforting to be based somewhere and always know that she would be able to return there to rest and relax. A place to call her own.

The others on campus too, would be good to reconnect with. She pictured the Calnodel's inviting them to see or test out another new gadget or invention. Perhaps even Miraevie or Alodie would be around, if they hadn't left the campus from their homes or returned from them already. Hah, Ostia huh. That was fun. Next time we have a break we should go there instead.

With a mind full of pleasant thoughts, the gentle afternoon sun cutting through the windows and warming her skin, and the rocking of the ferry. Sophie sucked in a breath, then let it out. Relaxed, she joined Lucinia and closed her eyes to nap.

"I am glad all of you seem well. But do keep your troubles outside of the Academy if you would kindly." The gruff looking guardian huffed.

"Ehhh, we'll try." Sophie half heartedly promised.

"Do more than try, Miss Kastiane." The guardian glared at her, "Our responsibility is to protect all students."

"Of course sir." She hastily bowed in.

The Academy guardian grunted and turned towards his colleagues. They nodded their approval. The security checks were complete and nothing suspicious was noted. With another curt nod and a wave, they were allowed entry back into the Academy. Or at least into Larusport and the subsequent queue for a carriage ride.

Both Lucinia and Sophie were a little groggy from their naps. Whilst Mila seemed refreshed if a bit stressed and the bard and dark elf didn't look a hair different from how they usually were. But a wide grin slowly started to spread upon Sophie's face. They were home.

Moving past the checkpoint after the searches was a remarkably simple affair. Either because everyone was already out for the day, or just that it was a slower day she didn't know. But because they only arrived just past midday, most of those who would be on campus had likely already left for the city beforehand until the evening. A smooth experience from ferry to carriage.

They all got noticeably more energetic by the time they boarded the carriage back to campus. Lucinia even took the moment to take in the scenery outside of their window. Sophie felt a pang of nostalgia seeing this. She still remembered the first time she had arrived with Ary and the cold reception she had gotten from Lucinia and her people. Stars above… she held her breath, it's been a while, huh?

Perhaps sensing Sophie's gaze, Lucinia spun around with eyes narrowed in suspicion.

"What?" The girl hissed.

Sophie just shook her head and smiled.

Seeing that she wouldn't get a proper answer, the Traxian just rolled her eyes and turned away.

Sophie still remembered how they all acted back then. Lucinia and her retainers on one side of the carriage, actively avoiding her after a little hostile bantering. Whilst beside her, a tired but comfy Ary was trying her best to take in the view without being noticed. As for herself, she didn't remember how she was back then. So much had happened since then that she could scarcely picture any other version of herself that wasn't her currently.

There had been so little downtime for her in the face of all their problems that she felt genuinely tired. Not just physically or mentally, but just a looming sense of exhaustion that was always nibbling away at the back of her mind. Something that was ever more acutely present whenever she had a moment or two to reflect.

And with Pyra's revelations, if they all prove to be true. I doubt I'll have too much time for rest or a vacation, huh. She mused. I'm going to need to find some time to just… unwind with Ary, heh. Stars, I hope she and the others are fine.

With that thought in her mind, she could smile a little. It only reaffirmed her own belief. She had missed Ary's presence on this trip. She had even felt a slight twinge of jealousy from seeing how close the former barmaid Kimmie had been with Anna, though she was more than aware of just how accursed that whole situation was.

So it was that she was lost in her thoughts when the carriage came to a gentle halt outside the Gate of Wisdom. Only when Elaria gave her a cheeky nudge did she regain her footing and followed along. The group dismounted and presented their supplies and equipment to another brief examination from the guardians. After yet again finding nothing, they waved the party through and they were back. Back at the Academy and amongst a far more friendly place.

"We're back." Sophie whispered, "Hah."

"Tired?" Elaria asked with a grin.

"A little, heh."

"Heh."

"Before anyone suggests celebrating or doing any such nonsense, might I say that it would be quite preferable for us to bathe ourselves and clean up before proceeding?" Lucinia chimed in with a snooty growl.

This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

"What? Afraid of a little stink?" Elaria teased.

"And if I said, I would rather be presentable than not?"

"Fair enough." The bard surrendered.

"Ahem." Mila called for their attention.

The group turned to listen.

"In that case may I outline a plan for us?" The Inquisitor asked.

A few nods.

"Good. Store the rest of the kit, get freshened up. Then we'll rendezvous at Sophie's room in…" She flicked a glance at one of the Academy's clock towers, "About three hours? For a debrief and hopefully dinner. We can plan our future course of action after all that. How does that sound?"

A murmur of agreement coursed through the group. Mila finally let out a sigh and smiled.

"We made it." She exclaimed, "Stars know how much more shit we'll have to deal with thanks to… the princess's new trove of information but…"

"That's a problem for later." Elaria chirped.

"Aye. I just need some rest at this point."

The group chuckled. Mila had been miserable travelling by boat. It came to no surprise that she was more exhausted than the rest of them, even Lucinia.

"Alright then. Lady Lucinia, congratulations for sticking with us the whole time." Elaria rounded on the Traxian and beamed a smile.

"I… well it's not like I could go anywhere else." She half scoffed, half smiled back.

"I think Ela's just happy you weren't complaining the whole time." Sophie took the chance to tease the girl.

Lucinia's nostrils flared in anger and the girl turned on her, one finger close to poking at her chest.

"You…" She hissed.

They both then shared a look and glanced towards the bard. One who just casually shrugged.

"Ugh. You rude louts. I swear." Lucinia pulled away and mumbled.

"But Ela's right. You made it." She offered a more genuine smile, "And I'm glad you're with us."

The Traxian huffed but did not complain. Tacit acknowledgment. And for Sophie that was enough.

"Alright. Everyone make sure your stuff is all with you. Lady Lucinia, grab what you need but Raylani and I can handle the rest of the supplies. Right?" The bard took back control.

"Yes, mistress." Raylani answered.

"Mila's right. We'll all unwind a little before meeting up. Three hours?"

Mila nodded. Then the others did so too.

With but a clap and little other fanfare, the group set to the task at hand. The mission had been accomplished. They had met with Anna once again, though Sophie suspected neither she nor Mila found what they were looking for in Gratia. Whatever the case, she had a more immediate goal. To see Ary, and that was exactly what she planned to do.

Her first sign that she was close to Rosewood was not just the familar surroundings, but the nagging feeling in her mind that clouded her thoughts. At first she just grew frustrated and annoyed. Irritated that her own ideas for how to best greet Ary ended up stumped and going nowhere.

Only when she stopped to take in another breath did she get some clarity. It wasn't justh herself losing track, but it was more of a droning noise, like something trying to get her attention. Ah!

"So you're back." A dry voice echoed in her mind. Or so she thought. Even without seeing Sophia's expression she could tell her counterpart wasted no time in being sarcastic.

"Sophia?" She asked.

"Who else would talk to you like this?"

"I was just making sure."

"Typical."

"What's that supposed to mean? And if you sensed me, does that mean you're in our room?" Sophie indignantly queried.

"Hanabi left a few minutes ago. Ary, Sigrid and myself are still here. The elven siblings are about to wrap up too." Sophia dryly informed her.

"Ary?! Sigrid and the Calnodels? I'll be there in a second!"

Elated by the sudden news, Sophie hurriedly made her way inside the dormitory. After checking in, she blazed a rapid trail upwards to her floor, ignoring the few other students miling about in the building. Up one floor, then the next. Room 322. The words etched themselves onto her mind. Scrambling into her hallway she found two lithe figures staring curiously back at her.

"Guys, hey." She beamed.

"Ah! There she is! Hello, Sophie." Maylesa bobbed her head and smiled.

"Indeed. Tis a pleasure." Thalnor joined his sister.

"How are you? How is everything?" She asked them.

"We've just about done everything we needed to today." Thalnor answered, "We had someone else to meet but your sister said you'd be here momentarily. And here you are. How prophetic."

"You could stand to be less formal." Maylesa chided.

"We appreciate her as she appreciates us. That fact is already a known factor."

"Hey, hey. It's fine." Sophie chuckled, "Everything go alright during break though?"

"Of course, of course." Maylesa spoke up before Thalnor could, "We had a few things here and there but mostly just building or fixing something. Precious little time to research and come up with new concepts."

"Quite right. Though I'd wager that you've certainly had a far more exciting experience than the two of us." Her brother added.

"Hah. Maybe. Did a lot of talking instead of fighting this time around. Thankfully." Sophie giggled, "But would you guys be free for dinner? In about two to three hours?"

The siblings looked at each other, Thalnor's brow arching upwards quizzically while Maylesa pursed her lips. Whatever unspoken words and questions they shared ended with a firm nod towards Sophie.

"We should be free by then." Maylesa replied.

"Good! Then we'll meet back here, I suppose." Sophie smiled once more, "Now don't let me keep you. We can catch up later."

"Of course!" The other elf dipped her head playfully.

"Indeed. Will be there." Thalnor politely affirmed.

The three of them bid a hasty farewell to each other. Once she felt it was not rude to turn away, she scooted towards her door and paused. She couldn't tell if she was excited or happy to see the others again, only that she could hear her own heart racing. The sense of family and familiarity that Pyra's platitudes and proclamations could never engender welled up inside her. Home.

Steeling her nerves and trying to appear as brave as she could, she raised her hand and knocked on the door.

"It's me." She called out.

There was a few shuffling noises from inside before a cheery voice replied.

"Come in!"

Ary. Sophie smiled.

With a single twist and click of the door, she gained the leverage to push and swung it open. The fresh scent of floral vanilla tickled her nostrils, her mouth upturned in a slight smile by instinct. Then came the clear spring water followed by a curious trill. And finally there was Sophia, who Sophie wondered if she smelled like anything at all.

The room was almost as she left it. The table in the center now filled with some schoolwork and plasters. Relaxing purplish blues that swaddled her in a blanket of calming colors. Interrupted only by the twinkling little fae creature that zipped away from the windows and towards the new intruder.

"Sophie!" Ary shrieked with delight.

Sophie's eyes danced across the room until they landed at her bed, the redhead snuggly wrapped with blankets.

"Aryana!" She joyfully matched the cry.

Any plans on appearing proper or cool vanished as quickly as they had come. Her heart swelled with a thousand different emotions and all the fatigue seemed to simply wash off of her. Without wasting a moment, she threw herself at the girl. Ary threw off the covers and was completely ensnared by a tender, yet purposeful embrace. One returned in kind as the two pressed themselves against each other and soaked in the comforting reminders of happiness.

As natural as spring after winter, their fingers interlocked and Sophie could practically feel their heartbeats. Both racing, both getting closer to beating in unison. No words were shared or even kisses thrown around. Just a quiet reminder of one another's presence. Each breath they took, and every moment they spent felt like minutes. This moment was their own even though the others were around. They were in their own world of joy and affection.

Sophie completely relaxed herself the second Ary grew comfortable enough to nuzzle her cheeks. The girl, uncaring of whatever sweat or seawater Sophie might've smelled like, slowly pressed their faces together, rubbing their faces together as if an animal was reclaiming lost territory. Without missing a beat, they both pulled back in the same moment. Their eyes traveling across each other's faces, occasionally meeting, locking, then continuing to explore up and down their bodies.

Their hands remained locked. Neither willing to shuffle or move on the off chance that they would somehow lose each other. Ary wore a more casual tunic than her usual ones. A tight green dyed shirt that did little to hide the outlines of her bra underneath.

The predator had caught her pretty and Ary shamelessly directed Sophie's hand over her chest. Only releasing her fingers when certain that she would be the next thing that Sophie grabbed.

Amused yet flabbergasted at the boldness of the display, Sophie could only giggle. Then Ary smiled and giggled. And before anyone could say anything, the two pulled in closer and kissed.

Sophie's own sea dried lips met Ary's soft kiss with embarrassment. She squirmed a little at the disparity until Ary grabbed her head to steady her.

In that moment, she felt wholly at peace. If she ever had a goal, it was to simply protect her most precious beloved in front of her.

It was perhaps the perfectness of the moment that made her pause. When they pulled away, Sophie finally noticed the oddities. Yana had not exclaimed her usual disgust. Sophia did not complain through her mind. Only Ary's soft but labored breaths now echoed in the room after their kiss.

Sigrid, ever concerned, let out a low trill. The mermaid's waning call made Sophie slowly shift her attention. When she saw it, Ary's delightful smile drooped a little. A flicker of sorrow flashing across her freckled face. Alarmed, she gazed into Ary's eyes, searching for an answer. Normally sparkling with life, her vibrant green eyes were looking away.

Sophie swallowed. A single anchor of fear now weighing down on her. Following the girl's gaze and the mermaid's trill. She got her answer.

Next to Sigrid was a new introduction to the room's cast of characters. Two desks, two wardrobes, two chairs and the oval table were now joined by another. A pillowed and plump yet oddly tall chair made with a sturdy oaken frame. On the sides, what looked to be a set of clockwork wheels were securely fastened and attached to it. That's…

The faerie flew. The mermaid stood. Her shadow was hale and healthy too. Thus there could've only been one owner of the contraption.

"Yeah… I'm alive. It's out. For real. Yay." Ary weakly cheered, anticipating her conclusion "But…" She smacked her lips together before pressing her hands into Sophie's and leading them down her body and past her hips, "There is always a price to pay for ancient magicks, huh."

Sophie didn't know how to react. Ary was Ary. Even if injured she loved Ary. But what this meant was even worse. It meant whatever had happened had taken much from the girl. It had taken much and Sophie couldn't protect her, couldn't be there to help. Fear turned to shame, to guilt. She would love Ary no matter what, that much was the undeniable truth. That she wasn't there to offer comfort or aid. That was also a harsh truth that she would have to reconcile with.

"Don't… don't…" Ary muttered, almost like she had read her mind.

Sophie's mouth opened. But before she could speak, Ary raised a finger to her lips and silenced her.

"Whatever it is. We can talk later. For now, from everyone here." The girl managed to giggle unconvincingly, "Welcome home."

Sigrid let out a more cheery trill. One that Sophie couldn't resist at least grinning in response. Sophia nodded, much like Raylani often did. Affirmation and acknowledgment, nothing more was needed. Yana remained uncharacteristically quiet. No rhymes or jests. Just a slow flutter at arms length. Looking downwards, Sophie found that at the very least, Ary's legs and body was still whole. A loss of function no less dramatic, but at least there wasn't a violent removal. A small relief.

"I've missed you." Ary spoke once more, the earnest call managing to shatter Sophie's despair.

"I missed you too." She beamed and pulled the girl in for another kiss.

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