Darkness shrouded the room.
There was barely any light that could be seen illuminating the room. Especially when it is perfect for those who prefer sleeping in total darkness.
There, a certain red-haired young woman was fast asleep in the dark room. Snoring rather loudly for a girl of beautiful white complexion that can rival the beauty of snow. Her childlike appearance can deceive most to think she was young, but, in actuality, she was a young woman around sixteen years old whose height was short enough to mistake her for a child below her age.
She was dressed in a simple, modest white nightgown. Her body covered in bed sheets as she slept peacefully, blissfully unaware of a female figure entering into the room.
Said figure walked towards the closed curtains, slow enough not to awake the young lady in the room. Sighing at the sleeping girl as she pulled the rope, opening the closed curtains, revealing the light of day. Lighting the room in an instant, dispelling the darkness revealing an expensive bedroom full of precious objects and furniture.
"Wake up, Rosetta! It's time to rise! You don't want Lady Juvia to come here and wake you up, do you?"
The sleeping young woman heard the sound of an overly cheery woman, whose voice sounded like a child's but in actuality was not. With the curtains unfurled and light seeping through the windows, making sleep an impossibility to continue.
Opening her tired eyes, revealing deep blue eyes like sapphire, the young woman rose up from her bed, stretched, and let out a tired yawn.
"You don't have to wake me up like that, Saffron."
The woman, who was revealed to have long wavy blonde hair with orange by the tip of her hair, giggled. Her amethyst colored eyes showed her playful personality despite her appearance as a youthful maidservant. The tone of her voice showed familiarity with the young woman, not as a hired worker but as though as friends for a long time.
The maid who woke up this young mistress was named Saffron Avesta. A hired maidservant that served the girl's family, the Van Eisen family, for several years.
The girl, who was awakened by the maid, was named Rosetta. Rosetta Van Eisen.
"Of course, of course, Rosetta. I didn't want you to get up late, especially when Lady Juvia and Master Zedekiah were waiting for you in the dining room earlier."
"Eh, Zed is awake already?"
The red-haired girl blinked her eyes several times as she looked at the clock placed at the other end of the room. Seeing the time before turning back to the maid.
"But, it's only six in the morning. Breakfast doesn't start for another hour yet."
"That is true, Rosetta. But, Master Zedekiah woke up early before sunrise to ready himself for the day and Lady Juvia… Well, you know how much of an early bird she is."
"I see. I thought Zed doesn't wake up early. Is there something wrong with him?"
"Oh, wow. Are you worried about your older brother like that, Rosetta? That's super cute coming from you."
"Shut up!"
Rosetta threw a pillow at the giggling made, her flustered, embarrassed look plastered on the young noble's face. The fact she reacted to it makes all the cuter for the maid.
From a standpoint, Zedekiah Van Eisen is the firstborn of the Eisen family. Heir of the household and potential ruler of the Margrave Eisen Lands. He is also Rosetta's older brother.
Although she and her brother were nearly the same age, Zedekiah was born first and was therefore selected as heir of the Eisen family. Therefore, it makes him the legal successor of continuing the noble heritage Rosetta's family holds.
After calming down, Rosetta regained her composure. The results of her noble training began to pay off as she began speaking in a formal manner.
"Back to my question. Is there anything wrong with my brother for him to be awake earlier than he usually does?"
The maid shook her head in response.
"No, there is nothing wrong with Master Zedekiah, Rosetta. In fact, he has been waking up at that same time for the past four months. You just didn't notice him after all this time.
"Wait, really?"
"Yes." was the affirmative reply of the maid.
Rosetta was taken aback, but she knows her brother doesn't really show what he does. So, it wasn't too much of a surprise for her to know her brother is doing something in secret.
On the other hand, however…
"Why didn't you tell me he's been doing it for the past four months?!"
The maid dodges another pillow throw. Her mischievous look only aroused Rosetta's irritation at the lack of information at the newfound discovery of her older brother's habits.
"It's because I didn't think it would be necessary to tell you that. Especially when Master Zedekiah usually finishes and prepares himself before breakfast. That's why you didn't notice anything different from him."
"...That's true. But, what does he usually do during that time? I doubt it's studying. He always does that whenever he has time when he isn't doing the weird stuff he does every day."
"Hmm…"
Saffron Avesta put her finger at her chin and looked up. As if contemplating on what she should answer to the young noble lady. With said person looking at the blonde woman with suspicion at the rather long delay to reply.
"Well?"
"...I'm not too sure. I never really saw him do anything. Then again, I do see him sweating profusely before he comes back to his room to prepare. Other than that, that's the only thing I noticed every morning, Rosetta."
"Is that so…"
The young woman could only sigh in dismay at the response.
"Regardless, I suppose I can ask Zed for it. You said he's waiting for me in the dining room, correct?"
She got up from her bed as she said those words. Stretching more to get the motivation to ready herself.
"Yes, and Lady Juvia as well."
"Of course, of course." was the nonchalant response of the young noble woman as she went to the nearby wardrobe to change.
This was one of the normal, boring days Rosetta came to love throughout the years. These days were peaceful as far as she remembered it to be.
However, such days would not last forever.
XXX
"Is everything ready?"
"Yes, sir! All preparations are complete in this part of the army!"
"How are the units? Have they received the necessary supplies needed for this operation?
"Yes, sir! The Emron, Lachoneus, Mattaniah, and Yaush Divisions of the Southeast Army are fully supplied. Roshach Mill and his 11th Army, part of the Southeast Invasion Force, are ready to go, with Captain Heinrich Abednego leading his company at the frontlines. The East and South Armies, with their respective Divisions, are also fully supplied and awaiting orders, sir!
"Job well done, but you don't need to mention the East and South Invasion Force. It's good to see that they're within the ideal level. I like it. Especially with the combined strength of the 4th, 7th, and 11th Armies that composed the Southeast Invasion Force will be the first to strike. The 5th and 8th Armies of the South Invasion Force will also follow the Southeast Invasion Force at the same time. The 9th and 10th armies will also be deployed the following day at sunrise after the initial attacks to determine the Kingdom's response to us."
"Sir, when will the invasion start?"
"This evening. Our first and foremost target will be at the Star Mountains where the Fortress City, Marul, is located. Following that is where we'll make our advance to the center of the Kingdom's regional capital, Romel. We have no need to rush, though. We only need to bide our time to determine the strength of the Kingdom in order to make the necessary adjustments to our plans in case they have anything else to counter us. Tell the commanders to prepare their men. We only have 12 hours left before the operation starts."
"Yes, sir!"
XXX
The redhead young noble woman walked down the hallways with an unusual, painful stomach ache.
I can tell something bad is going to happen. I can already feel it.
Attempting to relieve the pain, she started applying pressure in her small stomach. Helping only a tiny bit, the pain won't go away.
Ugh… That's alright. I just need to ignore it. That's good, right?
As Rosetta had said to herself, she finally reached where the dining room was.
"Good morning, Rosetta. You woke up earlier than usual."
Thus came a familiar voice that greeted the young woman as she entered the room. His tone was not malicious nor with evil intentions, but it was a tone befitting for a benevolent young man. With said young man sitting on a chair just near the door.
She saw his neatly clean red hair combed in the fashion of a nice gentleman whose color was as bright as hers, his deep blue eyes lit with overwhelming kindness so rare for someone of his age to possess. His smile was as genuine as it can be as a reflection of his noble character who, as if, had taken the role of a peacemaker. His fair complexion would make any unsuspecting woman fall in love with him at first sight.
The young man had worn his usual attire that consisted of a loose long-sleeved black shirt with gold and purple outlines spread throughout his body, with two pockets located both sides of his shirt; invisible to anyone but noticeable to the keen observer. Matching his upper clothing was a simple, loose-fitting dark pants that was easy to move regardless of any given circumstances.
This young man was Zedekiah. Zedekiah Van Eisen. Rosetta's older brother.
Although they were nearly the same age, Zedekiah, compared to anyone in his age group, was comparatively short for his age. He was only a few inches taller than his own sister but was tall enough not to be mistaken as a child. A fact that Rosetta was slightly jealous of.
However, she did not feel animosity towards her brother, unlike most noble children nowadays. In fact, she has a very close relationship with him.
"Morning Zed. I only woke up because Saffron told me you were here."
"Oh really? That's a surprise. I never thought you would wake up because of me."
"It's not that kind of a reason, Zed! Sheesh! Why do people tease me every time you're involved? Including you."
"It's because you look so cute when we do it."
"Shut up, Saffron!"
The maid behind the young woman only giggled at Rosetta's flustered look. Making her claims all the more truer as Zedekiah chuckled at the sight. Bringing a light mood in the dining room.
Despite their status as nobles, their interactions were more akin to a normal conversation between siblings than anything else. Even formality doesn't exist when these two, Rosetta and Zedekiah, are around.
It was this close relationship between each other that made their interactions so distinctive. No other comparison could be made outside a normal family.
"Oh my, this early in the morning? You two seem to never change."
Thus said the voice of a woman across the room, sitting on a chair by the end of the table away from the door. Only a considerable distance from the group.
Although what she said would have interrupted the conversation the group was having, it was only a commentary so common in the mansion that they knew was not intentionally harmful in the first place.
The speaker herself has blue wavy hair that reaches down to her back but not long enough to reach her waist. Her eyes matched her hair but lacked the life to make it shine like a person would have. Her stoic personality, a rarity for a beautiful woman to have, somehow complements her reserved style of conduct. Wearing a simple long-sleeved dress that covered her modest bust size as well as her well-defined features.
Her appearance would've fooled anyone but the Eisen siblings and those who worked at the Eisen Mansion for a time, into thinking she was an intruder of some sort. In reality, she's a respected person in the entire Margrave Eisen Lands. Her lack of ornaments and other precious accessories was proof of her simple lifestyle she chose compared to the other nobility of her level, who would rather put on an extravagant appearance in comparison.
"You don't have to comment on that, mother. You already have seen us do it every day."
"Of course, Zedekiah. I'm only saying that to catch your attention. It wasn't my intention to interrupt what you're doing."
She said so with a wry tone. Only to make it seem like an unusual weird reply from an outside perspective.
But for the Eisen siblings, they knew that was her way of talking. Even when she said something in public when meeting with the other nobles of the Amriel Kingdom.
This is simply the way Juvia Van Eisen is.
"You know, you could just keep it in your mind, right?"
"Why should I do that, Rosetta? It's exhausting to keep an image where everyone expects me to be rather than acting what I want to be. It's easier to be myself than act like someone else."
"I know, I know. But, could you be at least more careful with your words?"
"Oh my, talking to me like that as if I'm trying to be your mother. I'm not like that, you know."
"Ugh…"
Rosetta could only roll her eyes at the rather blunt reply of the blue-haired noble woman. Knowing what she had said was true.
Juvia Van Eisen was the mother of Zedekiah and also Rosetta Van Eisen's stepmother. Thus, both have the same father but were born from different mothers. However, Juvia was the first and legitimate spouse of the Eisen Patriarch, whereas Rosetta's mother gave birth to her out of accident.
It was that complicated relationship that made her the illegitimate child of the Eisen household. Being born nearly at the same time as Zedekiah, the legitimate child.
Although she doesn't know who her mother is and how she got her father to get her pregnant, it is safe to say that they knew each other before. How, she can not tell.
However, despite being an illegitimate child living in a noble household, her relationship with her half-brother and her stepmother wasn't like the typical cold relationship most would make it out to be. Juvia, her stepmother, wasn't like any stepmothers from other households would act. In fact, she seemed to be alright with her throughout their entire life living together in the mansion.
It does not change the fact that they are not related by blood. As such, Rosetta could only assume her stepmother tolerated her existence just because she's nearly the same age as Zedekiah. Even then, she doesn't know the exact reason why she seems cordial with her.
Her thoughts were broken off when she heard Zedekiah's mother's voice once more.
"Anyways, it is nice for you to join us this early, Rosetta. Normally, breakfast would start for another 30 minutes, but I can assume you know the reason why we are here, correct?"
Normally, Rosetta would know the answer. However, in such a rare occurrence that had happened this morning, there was no actual answer for her to give other than shaking her head. Not knowing the exact reason why Juvia and Zedekiah were waiting for her in this room.
"I see. In that case, it's best for me to say this directly to you then. My son, who is also your brother, will train you."
"...What?"
"You know what I mean, young lady. Zedekiah is going to train you."
"...What?"
Rosetta couldn't process what her stepmother was saying. It doesn't help when she's both direct and vague at the same time.
What type of training?!
Although she knows different types of training, especially her nature as a noble woman, despite being an illegitimate child, she doesn't know what kind of specific training Juvia has in mind for her. Never mind her current training as a noble woman she has.
The younger Eisen sibling looked to her brother in confusion, with her brother only giving her a smile as his response. Only for Rosetta to turn back to the blue-haired woman with greater confusion than before.
"You will know after breakfast. After an hour, we'll go outside to the courtyard to begin your training."
The matriarch never elaborated before the servants came in, with breakfast on hand.
"Good timing. I suppose we wouldn't wait for 30 minutes after all."
Juvia Van Eisen's simple remark couldn't dispel the confusion Rosetta has toward the entire interaction. It only served to increase the intensity of her currently worsening stomachache.
Ugh… I just hope this day won't get any worse than this.
XXX
"Sir, the commanders have reported that their men are ready!"
"Oh, so soon? What about their current conditions? Are they requesting any additional supplies?"
"Yes, sir! They are all in peak conditions for the operation! However, they are wondering when the Instantaneous Travel seals are going to be activated! They say the men are wary of the reliability of the seals for this operation as well, sir! Nonetheless, they say they are ready for everything, regardless of their current worries!"
"Good report. As for the Instantaneous Travel seals, we were explicitly instructed by the High Council that they are not to be activated until nighttime. That's when the Kingdom would not expect this attack to happen even when they are aware we're preparing for an invasion. As for the reliability, according to the Department of Magitech Development, the current generation of Instantaneous Travel seals are fully tested, and they reported that the reliability is much higher compared to the previous generation seals. They noted that it can transport a large amount of bodies, about 25 times more, and with a lesser chance of having I.T.S. (Instant Travel Sickness). They also mention bypassing Delay Teleportation seals, but I am unsure of that part."
"Sir, what are your opinions about this invasion?"
"...For me, soldier, is that this invasion will bring about the downfall of the idolatrous, heathen kingdom. No more will they follow the graven images of the so-called Son of Man who they believe to be the only God, but they will follow the Gods of the Six Spheres who we serve! We shall see if their God will deliver them from the might of our armies!"
XXX
Ah, that was a nice breakfast.
The young woman thought joyfully as she rubbed her stomach, being full of the meal she ate earlier at the dinner table.
Surprisingly, she doesn't feel the bad stomach ache anymore. Especially when it hurt so bad earlier in the morning.
I wonder how that changed? It's probably because I was just hungry earlier.
She hummed as she went outside of the mansion to the courtyard. There, she saw the walls that protected the Eisen Mansion in recent years. Though the walls itself are not part of the original layout of the mansion since its erection, it still provides the necessary protection in case an armed conflict were to occur.
She waved at guards who were patrolling on the wall, which guards responded with a wave as well. Showing they were not simply as guards but people who Rosetta was familiar with.
The guards were wearing the standard equipment, which is a simple breastplate, helmet, and a pair of knee pieces for protection; holding a spear with swords strapped to their waists. Though the equipment they have may not be comparable to the active soldiers, who wore better armor protection, these guards were only deployed during peacetimes. The only time the nobility will replace their guards was only in wartime as it is the only occasion where they have the reason to spend money for their protection.
Though the guards stationed at the mansions were from the local village under the Eisen stewardship, instead of the usual recruitments at the Fortress City; her stepmother, along with Zedekiah's support, deemed it necessary to recruit those who are nearby to reduce the travel expenses needed to deploy. As an additional benefit, they can visit their families at the village anytime they want, as long as they have permission. Thus increasing the already friendly relationship between the Eisen Family and the villagers.
Needless to say, the Eisen Family was one of the few noble families that the general populace of the Amriel Kingdom was fond of.
She looked at the courtyard, with its vast space more than enough to move around with no obstacles in sight. Despite its large size, Rosetta had no idea what the courtyard was used for. She could easily tell there were no extravagant gardens as Juvia dislikes the notion of having to pay workers in gardens that don't have any worth besides making things look pretty. As such, the Eisen Courtyard is the only place in the kingdom that the current head doesn't like displaying her riches, preferring only the simple things.
In fact, out of the nobles in the kingdom, and even within her family, Juvia Van Eisen was the most stingiest person to ever exist in the country. Only second to the blue-haired woman was her son, Zedekiah. Even then, he wasn't as close as stingy as his mother was.
Despite all of that, she knew it's part of her stepmother's character. Even when it feels weird for her to know that part.
"So, what are we going to do out here?"
The young woman, out of sudden, asked. Her query caught the attention of her brother, who was walking in front of her, to turn back to his sister.
"You see—
Before he could make the reply, his mother, who walked beside him, responded faster than he could. She has done so without even looking at Rosetta.
"Your brother is going to train you how to fight."
"—Thanks mom."
"What?"
"I said what I said, Rosetta. I'm going to let your brother train you on how to fight."
"Why?!"
She couldn't understand what was happening. Her brother was going to train her to fight, for what?
Rosetta knew her stepmother was nothing like the other noblewomen in the kingdom, but this was way above what she usually does. Even the fact that she was a direct type of person, she's too direct to even be clear about it.
Besides that, Zed isn't strong enough to beat me in an arm wrestling match two years ago! I even killed a tiger that same year! How is he going to train me on how to fight?
It was a little known fact that Rosetta, despite her frail and childlike appearance, possessed monstrous strength compared to most nobles and even the common people of her age. There was one time she killed a tiger with one punch. She was even strong enough to effortlessly lift that same tiger she killed. Whereas it will take a strong man to do so, albeit with much difficulty compared to Rosetta.
Everyone within the nobility knew her feats, including her stepmother. There was little to no doubt that she even forgot about it.
Why does she even want me to be trained? Does she think I'm not strong enough?
In any case, compared to her brother, she was physically superior back then. Even when looking at her brother's physique, it doesn't look like he had changed over the years. The only difference was he had gotten taller and preferred wearing loose long-sleeved shirts compared to before.
In her perspective, Zedekiah was still the same person two years ago.
"We're here."
The Eisen Matriarch declared. Stopping the small group on their tracks in the middle of the empty courtyard. Nothing can be seen except for the fountain and the grassy terrain that made the courtyard look bland.
Juvia suddenly turned back to the young woman, who flinched at her brother's mother. Never anticipated the sudden actions her stepmother had done.
All of a sudden, Zedekiah's mother ordered.
"Saffron."
"Y-Yes, Lady Juvia?" The maid stuttered, not expecting the sudden order. Especially when the matriarch did not look at her.
"Fetch me a pair of swords. One that Zedekiah used and the other, the standard long sword, to Rosetta. And be quick about it. I want their training session to start as soon as possible."
"O-Of course."
The maid bowed before she suddenly disappeared in a flash of gold light. Leaving no trace of the young maidservant, leaving the Eisens alone for the time being. Seemingly unsurprised by the unnatural phenomenon that had occurred, after all, they have seen her powers beforehand.
Everyone in the group knew of Saffron's capabilities, as such, they did not question her powers. Even then, there were the guards, who were patrolling on the walls, had caught a glimpse of Saffron's ability, and were briefly surprised by it. Nonetheless, they continued on with their duties after a short moment.
To those who are unaware, Saffron Avesta was a Magic Arts user. Particularly, a user of the Light Arts. Being able to materialize and dematerialize into forms of light.
Magic Arts users are one of two known categories of users, the other being Weapon Arts, who are able to use the energy of the air, known as Reshut (pronounced as "Re-shoot"). Being interpreted as Authority or Power, in the sense they were drawing something from on high; as this energy came as though it was given from heaven itself.
This category of users is the most common between the magic using individuals and the magic-reliant weapon users as the latter were those who used their physical prowess for combat. Unable to conjure spells compared to the Magic Arts on their own. On the other hand, Magic Arts users aren't as athletic as their weapon-using counterparts, but their overall destructive capability and versatility were enough to even the odds between the two.
It was these two categories that divide the magical from the natural, the learned and the strong, and nations from one another. As such, it was apparent that there were discriminations between the two. So much so that there were constant debates on which category is far superior to another.
The category that Rosetta and Zedekiah belonged to was the latter.
"Now, I suppose Saffron will take a little bit of time to fetch those swords. I suppose you have any questions for me?"
The blue-haired woman turned to both young Eisens. Eyeing them both to see if any of them was willing to ask.
Unsurprisingly, Rosetta was the first to try.
"What's the purpose of me being trained by Zed? I mean, I'm already strong enough to defend myself."
The red-haired knew her capabilities well enough. It wasn't out of pride. It was a logical question as everyone in the group knew her physical prowess already surpassed the common man.
Juvia, as if knowing the youngest Eisen's question, swiftly answered.
"I know you're strong, but you're not skilled enough to wield that strength of yours."
"Wait, what? Is that the reason why you want Zed to train me to be more skilled in using my strength?"
"That's correct. But at the same time, no."
"Then, what's the actual reason?"
"You'll see in a moment. Ah, Saffron has finally arrived."
The group looked at the side, just in time for a golden flash of light to appear once more. With two swords under the maid's feet, with said maid having an exhausted expression. Her entire attire was wet as if a bucket of water was dropped on her.
"Oh my, exhausted already, Saffron?"
The blue-haired woman commented, her right hand covering her mouth. The Eisen siblings barely noticed that the head of the household was resisting the urge to laugh at the maid's current state. With both unaware of the glowing symbols on the two swords, the young maid was standing on.
The maid was too tired to reply to her master, gasping for air as though she had run a marathon straight without rest. It was not until a moment later that the maid was able to respond to the head of the Eisen household.
"Lady Juvia… Hah… How heavy are these swords…? They're way too heavy for me to carry… Even when teleporting, they're too much, and I could only barely make it here."
"Oh, you've finally noticed. Good. Now, rest for a bit. I can tell you don't have any energy to follow more of my orders."
"Thank you very much, Lady Juvia."
With that, the maid fainted due to exhaustion. Her back lying flat on the ground with no strength to move anymore.
The maid's actions only made it amusing to the blue-haired matriarch. Her son could only stare at his mother judgingly, as if she intentionally made it happen. Rosetta, on the other hand, could only wonder what had happened.
She knew Saffron was able to teleport with her Light Art, especially when there were times when they're in a hurry and the maid was used as an instantaneous travel back-up plan when things went wrong. Rosetta was also aware of the limitations of her teleportation ability.
To see the blonde-haired maid in her current state must mean the swords were heavy enough to push Saffron Avesta to her absolute limit.
How heavy are those swords to have Saffron lose her strength so easily?
Seeing the maid lying on the ground, knowing she was a type of person who would care about the impressions she made to those around her, only to sleep on the ground must mean it took more power than she must've exerted in her entire life. Also to the point she no longer cares about her current state for everyone to see.
The young red-haired woman's thoughts were cut off when she heard her stepmother's voice once more.
"Zedekiah, dear." The young man turned to his mother in response to her voice, "Could you carry Saffron near the fountain over there? The poor girl is too tired to move. Could you be a gentleman and help her?"
"...Yes, mother."
The young man had no other reason to say no to his mother. Showing the respect he has as his mother as well as the kind of person who would help those who are in need.
Zedekiah carried the young maid in his arms. Saffron's unconscious form made the blonde woman a beauty to behold that would make any young man from her age group fall for her. But the young heir, knowing his status and familiarity with the maid, can only smile softly as he carried her gently at the place where his mother told him to.
The matriarch grinned as she saw the young heir carrying the maid to a safe place. Uttering inaudibly enough for Rosetta not to hear her voicing her thoughts out.
What exactly are you planning, stepmother?
Although she doesn't know what Juvia might have planned, she could tell she was interested in whatever relationship Saffron and Zedekiah may have. Just enough to have her grinning as if she saw something that excites her.
After the young heir had placed the sleeping maid to a safe location, as nice and gentle as he could, he quickly returned back to the group after finishing what he was told to.
"Now, since everything is in place, I can assume you have questions about the swords we have here, Rosetta?"
The blue-haired matriarch turned her attention to Rosetta, who nodded at her brother's mother. Finally, they were getting to the point of all of this.
"Good." Juvia began with a small smile, "As you can see, these two swords are what I call training swords. These may look like the actual blades the guards used, but don't worry. They are specifically designed for training purposes. The blades are blunt, incapable of slicing off limbs. Just enough to avoid scratches that may need stitching in every training session. I've also considered the strength you have, young lady, and I've made sure that these blades are durable enough to withstand someone on your level or perhaps even stronger than you when swinging these swords."
"So, how durable are these swords, exactly?"
"Good question you have there, Rosetta. Before that, I need to point out something you may have overlooked. Tell me, what do you see on one of the swords?"
The young woman tilted her head in confusion before looking at one of the swords Saffron brought.
She looked at one of the swords carefully and saw strange symbols engraved on it. The sister of Zedekiah remembered that the symbols glowed when the maid stepped on it, and it may have to do with how exhausted her blonde-haired friend was.
"...Symbols. I see strange symbols."
"That's correct." Juvia clapped as if Rosetta got it right, "These symbols, or should I say seals, are engraved on the blades for a few specific reasons. One, it is to enhance the training experience."
"What kind of training experience?"
"I was getting to that part. You remember the guards were practicing sword swings the other day, correct?"
"Yes."
"Splendid. Now, one of the seals placed on these swords is called the Weight Increase Seal. As the name implies, it increases the weight of the swords to a certain degree. According to my observation, in order to be able to swing a sword properly, you must get used to the weight of the weapon itself. And I've seen multiple swordsmen and other Weapon Arts users disciplining themselves to the weapons of their choice just to create a connection between them and how they use it. Therefore, the Weight Increase Seals serve not only to make the swords heavier but to feel it becoming a part of you once you get used to the weight. Now, a question. What happens when, after getting used to swinging a heavy sword, then you use a normal sword, and what happens next?"
"Uh, you'll get to swing it faster?"
"That's the right way to say it, I suppose. But it is still correct, nonetheless."
"Um, thank you?" Rosetta wasn't sure how to respond to that.
"Of course. Time for the second reason, you can use the blades with your full strength without worrying about breaking them. For this reason to exist I've decided to place the Enhance Durability Seal to make it possible for someone of your strength to use these swords against each other without damaging it. As well as making good use for parrying practices. Much like the Weight Increase Seal, it has certain limitations on how much punishment these swords can last."
"Wow… amazing."
Rosetta couldn't help but feel amazed at all of these. It seemed like these seals, as termed by the blue-haired woman, were something extraordinary.
She heard of seals before, but she thought of them like the red things stuck to the letters sent by the royal messengers. But now, as she saw from her stepmother, these seals are magical in nature. Especially knowing Juvia was one of the few Magic Arts users in the kingdom within the nobility. In this case, the Eisen matriarch was showing her talents in the Magic Arts.
Then, she heard Zedekiah whispering to her as he came closer to her.
"It's good to see you being amazed by mom's magic, Rosetta."
The young heir whispered to his sister. Showing a little pride for his mother and the skills she has, especially as a son.
Rosetta had nothing to object about it.
"You don't have to say that, Zed. I know stepmom was a Magic Arts user, but I didn't expect her to be able to do this."
"It's great, isn't it? At least you'll get to use a sword without breaking it on your first try."
"Don't remind me of that!"
"Hahaha, of course you don't."
The young man chuckled at his sister's embarrassment. Remembering the time she used a sword against a rock, thinking it would cut it because of her superior strength. Not knowing it doesn't work that way.
It was a few years ago since then. Now, things were quite different, especially with the current changes being made headway.
After seeing both, Rosetta and her son were whispering since she saw them earlier but didn't do anything to interrupt them. Letting them talk before she saw her opportunity to continue.
"Alright, now, it's time for the third and final reason."
She caught the attention of the two. With the younger sibling putting her full attention towards her.
With that kind of effort, Juvia simply smiled as she continued.
"As you know, there are many reports of thefts nowadays with people stealing properties from both the nobility and the common people. With that being said, another reason why these seals exist is to create an automatic defensive system to safeguard what you own. For this reason, the Weight Increase Seal comes into place."
The older woman went towards one of the swords that were laid on the ground, walking not in a hurry, but in a way that made her steps seem heavier.
As she lightly stepped on the handle of a nearby sword, one of the symbols glowed brightly. Enough for any who are watching them to notice.
If the sword was put in a dark room and someone touched the sword, the symbols would glow. And it would be enough to light an entire room. Blinding anyone who was not expecting it to shine so brightly.
"Now, if anyone touches these swords, it would shine brightly. Signifying that the Weight Increase Seal has been activated to its maximum output. Thereby showing they're not the owner of these swords. Any questions?"
Rosetta raised her hand.
"Yes, Rosetta?"
"How heavy are those swords when the Weight Increase Seal is activated? I saw Saffron being super exhausted, even when she teleported those swords from where they were to here."
"Good question. Before answering that question, I must ask, how heavy do you think it is?"
"Um, 181 and a half kilograms (400 pounds)?"
"Good guess. But I suppose that you based it off of the tiger you killed before, correct?"
Rosetta could not answer but raised both of her brows up quickly without looking at the matriarch directly.
The stepmother stared at her stepdaughter, who repeated the same action twice and could only let out a sigh at her.
"Nice try, but it isn't that light, Rosetta."
"What?"
The young red-haired woman couldn't believe what she had heard. That kind of weight was too light for Juvia to consider the maximum weight output for the seal.
For her to say, it must mean it is much heavier than what she imagined.
"Then, how heavy is it?"
"Oh, I don't have to answer that question. Zedekiah, dear, would you?"
"It's around seventeen hundred kilograms (1.87 US tons), right mother?"
"That is correct, Zedekiah."
"Huh?! That's heavy!"
Rosetta could not help but exclaim in surprise about it. She imagined the weight to be twice or thrice – around 363 to 544.5 kilograms – its weight. Now, it exceeded nearly ten times more than what she thought it would be.
Then, a question arose.
"Why did you make it that heavy? There's no one that is strong in the kingdom that could lift that kind of weight."
She was aware there was virtually no one in the kingdom that could lift its weight. Even then, it was something unreasonably heavy as to warrant any logical need for its weight.
Juvia replied sharply, as if offended by what the young red-headed woman had said.
"You be careful of what you say, young lady. There's more than what you see here in this kingdom that you know nothing about."
With such a tone from someone like Juvia of all people, Rosetta flinched at her stepmother's reply. So was her son also, who did not expect his mother to say those kinds of words to his half-sister.
Then, the matriarch of the Eisen household turned to her son. Fear was evident on his face as his mother's stare bore deeply into his eyes.
"Zedekiah Van Eisen."
"Yes, mother?"
"Do be a gentleman and teach your sister how to fight. I no longer have any reason to stay here than to watch. Specifically, you, my son, to train this naive child in the ways of combat."
"...You know, mother. You could've just said you wanted to see me beat my sister in a sword fight than say all of that."
"What did you say?"
"Nothing mother!"
"Good. I'll be off the side watching. Today's training session will last two and a half hours. Until then, do use your time wisely."
With that, the blue-haired woman left without another word. Leaving the Eisen siblings to their own devices as the matriarch's figure grew smaller as she went away in a considerable distance.
After checking that his mother was at a distance where she could not hear them, Zedekiah let out an exasperated sigh as he turned to his sister, who was shell shocked by the experience.
"I'm sorry, Rosetta. Please forgive mom, I know she's been a bit hard on you today, but you know she isn't like that."
"I know, Zed. But I don't get why stepmom wanted you to train me. I mean, I'm already strong enough to defend myself."
"That's what I'm trying to say. But mother seems to believe your strength isn't enough. I don't know why, but it does seem like she wants to prepare you for something."
"Like what?"
"I don't know! But maybe it has to do with all the gossiping the nobility's been to awhile now."
That bit of information caught Rosetta's attention.
"Can you share with me a little about it? I want to know if this has got to do about me being trained."
"That's the thing, only Mother knows about it."
"Ugh. Why is stepmom being so hard right now?"
"Beats me." The young heir shrugged, "All I know is that she seems oddly interested in seeing how well you do in a sword fight."
Now she knows a little bit that her stepmother is on to something, which she doesn't know now, but she understood that it would mean doing what the blue-haired woman wants her to do.
"If that's the case, then show me what you got! I've heard from Saffron that you wake up early every day, so it must mean you've been training really hard."
"Yep. I've been training hard since you beat me in that arm wrestling match before. I want to see how strong I've gotten since the last time we did something like this."
As he said those words, he picked up the sword that had his name inscribed on it. His name on the sword slightly glowed, blending in with the color of his sword, showing that he is the owner of the blade.
Rosetta did the same, and the name on her sword glowed as well.
The younger sister of the Eisen successor stared at her sword in amazement. Holding the blade by its handle, she was surprised as to how extremely light it is, realizing how she might've underestimated the true potential of the seals that were placed on the training swords if she didn't experience it firsthand.
"You can change the weight of the sword if you want."
Zedekiah told her, with Rosetta turning to her brother in surprise.
"How do you do that, then?"
"It's simple. Just think of the weight number you want it to be, and it will work. But don't make it exceed the number mom has set. Otherwise, it won't work."
"Okay. I'll just think about it and— woah!"
All of a sudden, she felt her sword being heavier than she could handle. Barely enough to have her struggle to hold it in her hands before she thought about the weight she could handle. And it did so in an instant.
"Amazing…"
She couldn't hide her amazement. It was something she never thought would be possible through magic. The younger Eisen never felt this much excitement in holding a sword enchanted through magic.
Her older brother couldn't help but smile at his sister's amazement. Knowing first-hand how it felt before. He did so before moving away in a distance around three meters from each other.
"Now," she heard her brother beginning to speak, snapping her out of her amazement as she turned around towards him, "as for the Enhance Durability Seal, it is set automatically. So you don't need to worry about thinking how strong it needs to be. It can withstand any force not exceeding something that can be swung with its maximum weight."
"What do you mean by that?"
"I was just saying that if something strikes at it with the same amount of force as someone having a seventeen hundred kilo sword moving four times faster than a normal sword swing, the seal would not be able to handle the strength and would break instantly."
Rosetta couldn't help but be amazed at that explanation. Now, she knew there were limitations of the seals that were on their swords placed by Juvia.
After all, these were training swords in the first place. It doesn't have to be overly spectacular just for show. It just needs to be practical, that's all.
"Say, Zed."
"Hm? What is it, Rosetta?"
"For this training, what are we going to do?"
"Well… first off, I want to see how good you are with the sword. At least that sounds to me like a good start."
Rosetta nodded, holding her sword as she began facing off her brother as instructor and student. With her being as the beginner.
She knew how to hold a sword properly before. As such, there was no need for Zedekiah to explain to her about the basics of swordsmanship as both siblings began taking a stance of their preference.
Now, I need it to make it light enough for me to move freely. I suppose I'll have to end it as quickly as possible.
The young woman of the Eisen household was fully aware of her superhuman strength, therefore, in order to see if her brother has gotten stronger than he was before, she needs to move as fast as she can. And see for herself how much he has improved.
With that thought in her mind, she began preparing herself.
Not a moment passed when Rosetta began charging at her brother in a burst of speed. Propelled by the same force as a full-grown tiger at full speed, carrying her small body with such strength, it did exceed what any normal human would have.
After closing the distance between her and Zedekiah, she swung her sword with an overhead slash. Using all of her strength in one go.
Zedekiah grinned as if he expected the incoming attack, swung his sword also. Countering his sister's attack with his own. Creating a burst of wind as a result of the clash between the two.
Although it wasn't surprising that the young heir had expected the earlier. But what surprised Rosetta the most was him being able to counter her sword strike with only one hand.
The young red-head girl backed away at a distance, her surprise still evident on her as to how it was possible for Zedekiah to block her.
"Surprised, Rosetta? I told you earlier, I've been training hard since you beat me back then, haven't I?"
The young man grinned, not in a malicious way but in a way that showed his pride in a more positive direction that did not contradict his kind nature.
It only made Rosetta more curious as to how strong her brother had gotten. From what she last remembered, he couldn't even lift something near his weight.
"How did you get so strong, Zed? It's like you're different. You're nothing like you were back then."
"Oh, it's simple. For the past two years, I've been using this training sword mom prepared for us. She was fully aware I was using it before you knew about it. So, I used all of my early morning hours practicing swinging it and increasing the weight until I got used to it. Making me stronger every time I've gotten used to the weight I have set. Sometimes, it took me weeks to master the weight number I can handle. It's all about focus and diligence to get where I'm at right now, especially with how hard it gets to move a super heavy sword around every day."
"Amazing… Then, how much can you carry?"
"Nothing much. It's just around 680 kilos at least."
"That much?!"
Rosetta couldn't help but feel her brother had gotten so ahead of her. He's literally three and three-fourths stronger than she is now.
Although it would've discouraged most, especially at that level of strength, all things considered. However, it was different for Rosetta.
"No matter. Just you wait, Zed. I'm still going to be stronger than you. I'll get stronger faster than you'll ever be."
The young woman had the spirit of a persistent rival. Someone who doesn't back down from a powerful individual and strives to be better than someone else. Especially if that individual has a special place in her heart.
"That's the spirit, Rosetta! I'll be sure to help you reach that goal of yours!"
"Alright, Zed! Ready or not, here I go!"
She charged once more, resuming the friendly sparring match between two half-siblings once more.
Now knowing how strong her brother had gotten in terms of physical strength, Rosetta knew she could not overwhelm him with physical strength. Therefore, she has to use speed in this sparring match.
Closing in towards her brother, with speed fast enough, that can surprise anyone.
She swung her sword towards her brother's right side. Now, using her full strength for this match between two Eisen siblings.
Much like before, her brother also countered her swing with the same force and speed as she did. Creating a blow with strength beyond any normal person could do at the moment.
Rosetta did not stop there.
After Zedekiah blocked, she then proceeded to swing her sword to his other side, using the longsword's double-edged blunted blade to create momentum for rapid swings faster than most people can react. Which could cause confusion that even those who were trained by the sword could not keep track of it.
However, Zedekiah Van Eisen was a different matter.
With that same grin still plastered on his face, the young heir kept pace with his younger sister; his swings, masterful and controlled, moved in the same power and speed that defied Rosetta's onslaught; the latter couldn't believe what she was seeing.
Nonetheless, she kept on going. Using whatever tricks she can come up with.
She tried aiming for his legs, but her brother was able to react on time as he leaped and performed a perfect airborne backflip. Demonstrating his acrobatic skills and superb physical strength. Increasing the gap between the two, both strength and overall distance. With Zedekiah being able to create said distance in 18 meters and was able to close in that same gap in just a second.
She tried another trick where she threw her sword at her brother for him to deflect it, and Rosetta used the momentary lapse in concentration to catch the sword and swung at her brother. Only to counter her strikes fast enough to close the opening she thought would bring victory.
She also attempted to swing her sword at her brother's right side from behind, performing a feint attack whereas she was about to attack, she then forced herself to swing on the opposite way to strike Zedekiah's left. Only to be countered with him tossing his sword to his other hand to block the oncoming attack.
She tried everything she could think of, but her brother was able to counter the tricks she came up with.
Such displays of strength, speed, and skill would make anyone go discouraged at the sight. It would be more than enough to make a trained swordsman look in awe in strength, as well as the futility in his own skills.
Rosetta, on the other hand, was different. After all, she was a stubborn girl by nature. And she did not want to lose to her brother, of all people, in a battle of physical strength and skill.
Through her own stubbornness, the fight lasted more than it should. Using all of her strength and using all of the time they were supposed to have in their training. Draining it all until the appointed time had arrived. Ending the training session for the day.
XXX
"She's good. She's far better than what I expected."
Juvia commented, with no one to hear her say those words as she watched the two Eisen siblings overdo their sparring match.
It was nearly time, about ten minutes before the time was done.
The blue-haired matriarch sat at the fountain where Zedekiah laid the maid, turning her head to said maid. She saw the young maid was still sleeping. Her slumbering face was plastered with a blissful look that she seemed to enjoy every second she had in her sleep.
"Look at you, child. Enjoying your youth with that blissful state, I can suppose your rest is well deserved. I wish I could apologize to you about having to bring those two swords now. It must've exhausted your magic reserves to such a degree that you still slept until now."
As for how she knew it because she experienced it firsthand how it felt like.
Looking back, the memories of the time when she was younger. Having large potential to be an excellent Magic Arts user, her skill with magic had made her a prodigy among prodigies. Being able to use high-level magic with little amounts that, in comparison to other Magic Arts users, would take a huge amount of their reserves to perform the same feat she was able to.
She thought about how her choices had led to who she was now. Especially how she ended up being a mother of a well-mannered son for her age.
"Even though I didn't regret anything that I did to be who I am now, there's still that lingering sense of it. How intriguing, I suppose it's that part of me that still clung to the past."
Juvia simply chuckled at that part, knowing full well that she could not go back in time to erase everything that she did. After all, it made everything who she was today.
Ah, it brings me back. When I was a lot younger.
The head of the Eisen household could not help but feel nostalgic about youthful bliss. Especially when someone as young as Saffron was living in a time where there were more opportunities for a Magic Arts user to learn more from another Magic Arts user than there was before.
As she continued to contemplate more in her mind, she noticed a guard approaching towards her. His attention, however, was fixed on the sparring match between the Eisen siblings as he walked towards the blue-haired woman.
Juvia was slightly disappointed by the man's unintentional action. Knowing he was the Captain of the guards that was assigned here in the Eisen Margrave Lands.
"You seemed to be focused too much on my children, Captain. Perhaps seeing two fighting with swords has caught your attention."
The captain of the guards was caught off guard by the woman's words. Obviously, he wasn't paying attention to his surroundings.
As one of the smartest women in the land, Juvia had better observation skills than anyone would bargain. What the captain did, though unintentionally, disappoints her. And because of that, she would like to have a word with the man later after the Eisen siblings' training.
"N-Not at all, Lady Juvia. It's surprising for me to see two talented sword fighters, especially Lady Rosetta, who is skillfully dancing with that blade. I never knew she had the skills of a Sword Dancer."
"A Sword Dancer?"
That was a new term for Juvia. Normally, those who saw her fight would call her fighting style as someone who moved around the battlefield like a madman using tricks to fool the enemy. At least, that's what the blue-haired matriarch sees from her perspective.
Also, the title, Sword Dancer, was something she had never heard before. Even with her knowledge of sword fighting, though limited, and her experience as a Magic Arts user was vastly different from those who use weapons; it was nothing to be underestimated. Especially when she had access to the Eisen Family's records throughout their noble lineage and exploits for the Amriel Kingdom.
Even with access to such a huge source of knowledge, Juvia herself hasn't read all of it. Perhaps there was something she hadn't discovered yet, despite years of reading.
"Yes, Lady Juvia. A Sword Dancer, have you not heard it before?"
"No, I have not, Captain. Though that term intrigues me, it does not matter now. After all, this is the first time Rosetta fought with a sword in her life."
"Wait, really?!"
The blue-haired woman simply smiled at the reaction, amused by the captain of the guards' amazement. She enjoyed seeing them gawk at something she knew was uncommon for a girl who was mostly trained in the ways of etiquette of the nobility to be good in swordfighting.
She was well aware of her potential if Rosetta took things seriously. For now, Juvia knew the young Eisen girl was fighting purely on instinct. Not the same way a trained swordswoman should.
Then, she heard the Captain begin to ask once more.
"What about Lord Zedekiah? Is this the first time he fought as well?"
This time, Juvia shook her head. Relieving the man's sanity from thinking the red-haired boy was the same as his sister. But, the current head of the Eisen household, being the woman that she is, was ready to give more than what the Captain can comprehend.
"Zedekiah has fought enough enemies to warrant this level of skill he has achieved, but, before, he used to be a frail child. Barely able to carry a sword in his hands. Now, as you can see, he is what he is in this present time."
The Captain looked at the woman, his surprise evident in his expression as he turned to see Zedekiah moving in speeds he himself could not perform, neither can he produce the strength the young heir possessed.
This was information Juvia knew the man could not comprehend.
"A-Are you serious, Lady Juvia? How long did it take him to be on the level he is in?"
"Nothing much, only a short two years."
"T-Two years?!"
The matriarch of the Eisen family simply smiled, only amplifying the incomprehensible facts that she shared with the man.
It was true, Zedekiah was born with a frail body. At times, he would get sick and lay helplessly on bed when he was younger. Those were the times that the future looked bleak on the boy. It was only when he reached eight years old that his health began to improve, but his physical strength was the same as before.
In stark contrast, Rosetta was healthier than her own son. Possessing physical strength that goes beyond what a child can possess in that age without training. It was apparent that Rosetta had what it takes to be an heir of the Eisen name.
That stage of physical ability between the two remained constant until, two years ago, things began to change after the night that affected the two children. Where, that night became the pivotal moment that led to what they are now in this present moment.
The mood became somber, remembering that night had affected Rosetta, a child not of her own, more than anything the red-haired girl had experienced. So much so, things began to change for Zedekiah, her own son, as well.
It was after the events of that night that the young man took things in a different way. It did eventually lead to training harder and harder until he reached the state that he was currently in.
Since then, things have never been really the same.
As she was about to contemplate more about what had happened that night, she heard the Captain clearing his throat. Evidently, he was preparing himself what Juvia would call a "professional report".
What is it now?
The matriarch sighed in her mind. Preparing herself for the inevitable report the guard would give.
"Lady Juvia, may I have your attention, please?"
"Of course, you may. Is there anything you have to report, Captain?"
"Yes, I do, Lady Juvia. And it's about the enemy army that is currently outside of our borders."
Hearing that part instantly made the conversation serious. Juvia's normal nonchalant expression was replaced with one who is well-versed in times such as this.
"Tell me about it. Are they currently on the move?"
"No, Lady Juvia. Not yet, at least. According to the latest information from the scouting party, they say that they noticed multiple movements around where the enemy army was camped. They also say they're gearing up, preparing their weapons, and donning their armor. They're expected to finish their preparations this afternoon."
The blue-haired matriarch narrowed her eyes, surprising the guard as it increased his anxiety more. Her expression grew tense after hearing the report.
She had heard about an army that was camped outside the borders of the Kingdom. Their banners and emblems do not match any of the surrounding nations, making them to be somewhat of a mercenary group because of their anonymous identity.
She would've believed that if it weren't for the fact that their numbers far exceeded what any mercenary group has. More so than any of the standing armies the surrounding nation has in total.
"Captain."
"Yes, Lady Juvia?!"
"Have the rest of your men be prepared. Have them be on the alert and look out for more movements. It's time that the defenses are to be activated as soon as possible. If they are what we believe them to be, then they are a threat to our own security."
"Yes, I will!"
"Good. Be on your way, Captain."
"Thank you, ma'am!"
Although she ordered him in her usual nonchalant manner, there was a hint in her words that she was serious, and the Captain knew at that moment what the blue-haired woman was implying.
The captain of the guards immediately left, leaving Juvia and the still sleeping maid behind as the last minutes of the Eisen siblings' sparring match began its final stretches.
I can see the clouds of chaos begin to form in the distance. We need to prepare for it.
Although what she had said in her mind was a metaphor used by the Kingdom to say about the impending doom, it could also mean peace was a fleeting moment. Never to stay for too long where conflict is always abound.
Thus, her fear for things to come began resoundingly clear as she heard the final clash of swords end with the girl's blade thrown out of her hands.
XXX
"General, sir! We have a problem!"
"What is it, soldier?"
"Our sensors detected a strange phenomenon developing near one of the designated landing sites! Specifically where the Haun Regiment was supposed to land later!"
"Isn't that where the Margrave Eisen Lands were located?"
"Affirmative, sir! They also say it has the same energy signature as the Shar, sir!"
"...The Shar, huh? Indeed, that could pose a threat to our operation. If it is a Shar, when will it appear?"
"According to our sensors, they predicted it will open around an hour after the operation starts, sir!"
"I see. But have they reported anything about an object, creature, or someone coming out of the Shar?"
"No, sir! They haven't reported anything of the sort! But, they say it fits the description of the Empty-type Shar! Enough for transportation from this side to another, sir!"
"Really? I suppose there's nothing to worry about if that is the case. However, keep me informed if there's any unusual developments about the Shar. We can't risk running into a powerful enemy without being prepared for it. Is Captain Heinrich Abednego's company assigned to that particular part?"
"No, sir! In fact, they are assigned in an entirely different location, near where Marul, the Fortress City, was located, sir!"
"Oh? Is that so? Then, reassign him to that area. We need his strength to deal with whatever comes out of the Shar. If possible, have him release his restraints before the start of the operation. Inform him as soon as possible. Send updates to me if there's any new developments about the Shar."
"Yes, sir!"
"Good. Be on your way, soldier."
"Sir, thank you, sir!"
XXX
Rosetta couldn't tell if what she was feeling right now was normal or not.
On one hand, she was feeling tired. Especially when the training session lasted so long, even most of it was used for a sparring match. To which she lost.
On the other hand, she felt overwhelmingly sore. Like, she couldn't move without having to feel some sort of heaviness or pain every time she moved.
For someone who hasn't gotten used to extraneous activities like the sparring match they did, it's a strange feeling for her to not be able to use her body like she usually does.
Lying on the ground, she couldn't move around freely because of the overwhelming soreness she was feeling. It was the first time in her life that she had experienced this sort of thing.
She looked at her brother, Zedekiah, who was standing beside where she lay. He didn't look as tired as she was, and he didn't seem to show any signs of exhaustion.
"Are you alright, Rosetta? You don't seem to look very good."
Her older brother asked. Looking down on her with a concerned look. Carefully crouching down to where he can listen to her better if she can't speak well.
"I'm alright, Zed. I'm just tired. It just hurts to move around."
"Ah, you have a sore body, I see. Well, that's normal, I experienced the same thing as well when I first started. You'll get used to it soon enough if you continue on."
"Oh really…?"
Considering the fact that Zedekiah himself had trained all by himself and gotten himself far stronger than he was before. It was safe to say that he was right. He had been doing it for the past two years, after all.
What kind of mindset do you have to reach that level?
She wasn't aware that her brother was so focused on improving. She couldn't have thought that he had gotten this far without her knowing about it. The things that Saffron said earlier in the morning were true.
"Say, Zed."
"Yes, Rosetta. What is it?"
"You said you've been at it for two years, right?"
"Yes, that's right."
"How come I didn't know all about it? How were you able to hide it for this long?"
"Ah, that's a long story, actually…"
He has a sheepish look on his face, scratching the back of his head as if he had done something wrong.
Rosetta couldn't tell if it was actually a serious thing or something entirely different. But what she could tell is that it has something to do with stepmother Juvia.
"Well, you can tell me about it another time. I just want to rest for a bit. Probably sleep while I'm at it."
"Alright. That's fine with me, Rosetta. But, do you want me to call you for lunch?"
"No, I'll probably skip lunch. I need to rest, I'm so tired."
"You've always been skipping lunch. That's probably the reason why you're still so short, Rosetta."
The young man chuckled, earning the ire of his little sister who, from the ground, was still trying to recover. Understandably, she couldn't move so well.
"Shut up! I don't want to hear that, especially coming from you, Zed. You're only a few inches taller than me!"
"Actually, I'm only 8 inches (20.32 cm) taller than you."
"Shut up! That's only a small amount! I can still grow, you know!
"I know. I know. But, it's nice to see you've changed a bit, Rosetta."
"What do you mean?"
Now, those words caught the attention of the younger sister of the heir. Willing to hear what he is going to say.
"You don't know? I mean, you've been a little nicer now than you were before. Back then, you would beat someone up for talking about your height. Now, it's a bit different than it was before."
"You don't mean that, do you?"
"Of course I do. In fact, you look a lot better than you were before. Despite you still being the short sister I know and love."
Zedekiah smiled. Not in a demeaning way, but it was genuine enough to fluster any who is putting on a tough act. Even Rosetta couldn't help but do so with a blush on her face.
"I-It isn't like that, Zed! I mean, I can't move anyways so…"
"That's alright. I understand you want to rest anyway. But, I want to tell you something about two years ago."
Now, the mood suddenly changed. Rosetta could see her brother move from his normal cheery personality to a more solemn expression. And Rosetta knew what he was talking about.
"I just want to say I'm sorry… about what happened back then."
"...You don't need to feel sorry about it, Zed. It just happened."
"But, you were really angry back then, and I want to apologize for it."
"You don't need to. I'm alright about it."
"But—"
"Please! Zed... No more... I don't want to talk about it."
"—...Okay."
Seeing that his sister was unwilling to talk about it, Zedekiah stood up and started to walk where his mother was waiting for him. Leaving Rosetta alone in the empty courtyard.
As she laid there, memories of the past began to resurface. Painful memories of that time began to fill in her mind.
I just want to forget about it. There wasn't anything worth remembering it.
She gritted her teeth. The night that happened, the voices she heard, the eyes that bore on her as though she did that does not please the sight. The night she was trying so hard to forget.
"Why can't I have any peace?"
Rosetta uttered weakly. The past haunting her had simply resurfaced out of that apology.
There was no need for him to apologize. It wasn't his fault that it happened.
She stared at the clear blue sky. Heaven's spacious view is so free and unrestrained. The sight was so beautiful that it could be contained by simple words alone.
Then, she closed her eyes. Her tired body forced her to fall into a deep sleep.
XXX
"General, sir! Captain Heinrich Abednego is fully informed of the situation, sir!"
"Good. What was his response?"
"He says he agrees with going to his reassigned area, sir! However, he says he's not going to release his restraints before the operation starts, sir!"
"Really? Has he gotten mad?! What makes him think he's not going to?"
"Reason unknown, sir! But, he says he's going to release it as he feels it to! He also said he evaluated that there was no need for him to go unrestrained, sir!
"Tch! Him and his gift. Perhaps it should be reasonable for us to trust his word for it. Very well. Then, what about the Shar?"
"There's no significant developments of the Shar, sir! The sensors say the Shar will appear just as predicted, sir!"
"Is that so? Hmm… maybe there is a reason to trust him after all… Very well, we will begin as soon as possible since we are nearly at the appointed time. Inform everyone immediately!"
"Sir, yes, sir!"
XXX
The young woman awoke at the sounds of crows perching on the wall. She saw the sky dyed in an orange hue to signify it was dusk.
"I must've slept for too long."
The red-haired girl uttered. Seeing she had been sleeping for nearly the entire day. Using up all of the daylight hours for her to rest.
She turned her head to the side, toward the fountain, and saw no one there. Even the maid that was knocked out because of exhaustion wasn't there either.
"Huh. Saffron must've recovered faster than I thought she would be. Well, it's time to get up then."
Seeing that there wasn't anyone else in the courtyard other than herself, she rose from the ground where she laid. Still feeling the soreness of her body, but not to the same extent as it was before.
My body is super weird for being able to recover fast.
The young girl thought, remembering the time when she had bled from the claws of the tiger she killed only to see a few hours later she was fully healed from her wounds. Which was a weird experience that she can admit, especially when both Juvia and Zedekiah were shocked about her quick recovery.
Nonetheless, even she herself was surprised about it. Not knowing how it happened in the first place.
Rosetta heard the bell at the nearby village rang. Its noise echoed throughout the land. A constant and consistent sound she knew almost every day. That same sound had helped the young girl to know that it was time for dinner.
The redhead stood up and looked around. Not seeing anyone in the near vicinity as far as she can see.
She looked down on the ground and saw her training sword still lay near her untouched. The symbols, or seals, are plain to see from where she stood.
"Can't forget to bring it back inside. Stepmom would kill me if I left it outside."
Though she knew the sword has an automatic defensive system, as she mentioned earlier, it is still her sword to be used for training purposes. It would be better to bring it than leave it behind.
Grabbing the sword by its hilt, Rosetta carried the blade back to the mansion. Where she hoped she would be able to return just in time for dinner.
As she was about to reach the fountain, she noticed a flash of light behind her. It was so bright it could light the entire land, and the shadows of the walls were clear to see. She felt that the light came outside of the walls, and if the angles of the shadows were correct, then it must be so.
"What was that?"
She turned to the direction of where the light came from, and it was in the direction of where the main gate of the wall was situated.
The young woman noticed several guards running towards where the main gate was, as if they had noticed something amiss. So much so that everyone who was stationed as guards rushed where the source of the light came from.
All of the guards were present, and as if to welcome them, Rosetta saw several bursts of light shooting through the air. Like fireworks firing to the sky.
Much like fireworks, it burst into an array of colorful light shows. Any onlookers would stare in awe at the beautiful scene. Captivating them into a trance.
The redheaded girl herself felt something was wrong. Her stomach suddenly churned as if reacting to the sudden events that were displayed before her eyes.
All of a sudden, she heard a loud bang.
Turning her attention towards the main gates, the steel doors that guarded the Eisen Mansion Courtyard, she could clearly see and hear where the noise was coming from.
In that instant, where she laid her eyes at the main gate, the steel doors flew.
Not in a metaphorical sense, but literally, the two steel doors, whose thickness and height, made of pure steel, matching the necessary dimensions needed for the walls, flew.
The twin doors flew in a ridiculously long distance, from the walls to dangerously near to the Eisen Mansion, Rosetta felt the wind of the force that executed the action of making the steel doors fly through her skin. Her hair blew accordingly to the strength thereof, and her expression was filled with fear as she saw a figure of a man standing where the doors were last positioned.
Although she couldn't see anything clear because of the clouds of dust and the aftereffects of the burst of lights, she could tell the figure wasn't anything but nice.
Frozen by fear, she helplessly watched as the dust receded and the aftereffects faded away. The young red-haired woman could now see who or what it was that caused this great damage.
Now, she widened her eyes in shock as she saw a sight she never thought would see in her life.
The guards, who were at the gate when the light first showed, were nowhere to be seen at first. And as her eyes were cleared away from the obstacles that impeded her sight, she now saw where they were. Or, rather, what they were once were.
Rosetta's entire body trembled as she saw the dismembered corpses of the guards she knew and befriended. For some, their arms were no longer where they were, and for some, their heads were removed, and for some, they had been completely cut in half.
"N-No way…"
The young girl could not express the horror she felt as she saw the guards, who were just and right men who did nothing wrong, were vetted as if they couldn't defend themselves.
Because of this, she had enough reason to fear for her life as she saw the figure in a suit of armor, standing menacingly by where the gate was.
She saw, in that far away distance, that he had a lion's emblem where the breastplate was at, he had a suit of armor made seemingly of pure silver and a red cape flowing freely in the wind. And he had a strange sword strapped to his waist that had the head of a lion as its hand guard by the hilt; its form giving an impression of a sleeping lion, waiting to be awakened.
By his appearance alone, Rosetta turned away and ran back into the mansion. Her fear of the man had caused her retreat.
Thus, begins the chaos of the night after the calm of the day.