Flash forward, one thousand years later, the continent of Glenwood

Sorey leaned against the wooden wall of the sauna. He massaged his chin, eyes staring into the infinite beyond,

“ Who’s that guy ?” he repeated to himself, the phrase that was recently stuck within his mind before being greeted by Mikleo. The water seraph strode at him with a towel in hand.

“Still thinking about Alisha’s ancestor?” Mikleo asked, resting his back on the wall beside Sorey.

Sorey let out a heavy sigh and nodded, “Yeah, for some reason, I can’t get him out of my head.”

Mikleo folded his arms, joining him in a whirlwind of might and maybes,

“Lailah’s silence and the sacred sword have to do something with him, I’m sure.”

Sorey’s eyes went wide in realization, and his gaze turned to Mikleo, “You mean there’s a second oath?”

Mikleo held his gaze for a few moments.

“Eh, that’s a possibility. Let’s hit the sauna first. You can relax and think clearly in there.”

Sorey pursed his lips, slowly moving his head to the sides,

“You go. I’ll join you later.”

Mikleo shrugged and sighed, entering the corridor to the sauna.

“See you later, then.”

But Sorey’s mind was absent from the conversation. His instincts pressured him to dig more at any cost. It didn’t take much before he was disturbed by a shirtless wind seraph. Zaveid marched at him with his eyes darting around the room, searching for someone.

“Hey, Mr. Shepherd. Where’s Lailah and the others?”

Sorey blinked and casually turned to Zaveid,

“They went to the sauna to relax.”

Zaveid eyes suddenly glinted with naughty intentions,

“Oh, really? Then why are you here idling around, Sorey? C’mon! let’s hit up the sauna!”

Sorey clicked his tongue,

“Nah, maybe later.”

Zaveid hooked his thumbs in his pockets, cocking his head and grinning,

“Don’t be such a buzzkill! We men need to be open and comfortable about things like this!” The wind seraph seemed to trail off, remembering something, “You know, I was with a Shepherd in the past that was way over his head over a very peculiar girl.” His mouth curved into a wide smirk, “He could be my partner in crime, but it’s your duty now to oblige and be my naked accomplice!”

Sorey glanced at his torso, “Was he like you? You’re always half-naked, Zaveid. I think that’s enough for both of us.”

Zaveid stretched his body to his full height and maintained his grin,

“No, I wore a coat back then. Now, I may show off my perfect body, but the door to my heart is always closed! And in these moments, Shepherds and Seraphim need to bond with each other in their times of need...”

Sorey immediately squinted at Zaveid as he realized his real motive,

“Don’t tell me you’re going to read the wind to snoop around the girls’ sauna?”

Zaveid laughed and raised a brow, “Oh ho!” He mumbled a vague phrase, “ ... And I thought his progeny was totally clueless… ” Zaveid then cleared his throat, “So you’re pretty sharp after all too, you no good Shepherd, you!”

Sorey whirled his head around to avoid Zaveid’s smug face, “I don’t think this is a good idea. Someone’s definitely going to notice!”

Zaveid chuckled proudly, “You can’t ignore the magnificent beauty in the sauna’s closed space, Sorey!” Zaveid tapped the young shepherd’s shoulder, hardening his tone of voice and staring him in the eyes like a tiger, “Sorey, let’s go hunting for babes.”

But Sorey’s glance shifted to the corridor, hanging on to someone that just exited the sauna; Mikleo bottomed his shirt, cheeks still flushed red from the hotness of steam bath, “That was the best restorative treatment! Why don’t you guys won’t step in as well?”

Sorey elbowed Zaveid, gesturing at the water seraph, “Do you mean like this?”

Zaveid facepalmed, “That’s not the kind of babe hunting I’m talking about!”

Mikleo scowled at Zaveid, “What is it now, Zaveid?”

“It’s about growing up enjoying life as it is, Mickey-boy!” Zaveid replied, directing his cocky smile at him.

Mikleo groaned, “What about those kids that you wanted to watch over?”

“They were fine. No room for babysitting when you’re chasing down beauties.”

Sorey glared at him inquisitively, “Was you always like this, Zaveid?”

The wind seraph smirked, “Yeah, I have always had this streak of adult male appeal.” Zaveid flashed a glance at the two of them as they were waiting to hear more from him. He sighed, “Well, ever since a long time ago, I lived a wild and free life, you know.”

“Since the shepherd that used a transformable weapon and was way over his head over a peculiar girl?” Sorey instantly asked him out of nowhere.

Caught off guard by the bright young shepherd, Zaveid panicked, “Hey, we’re getting off track here! I’ve said nothing about him! And what good does talking about him would do?!”

Sorey slowly nodded to himself, “So those people are the same guy.”

Zaveid swallowed. He inadvertently spilled a small piece of long and forgotten secret lost to human history.

Mikleo narrowed his eyes in skepticism, “You don’t talk about anyone at all. From a guy such as yourself, it means that he was a close friend.”

Seeing no other way, Zaveid collected himself and crossed his arms, staring blankly at a distance, “Well, lost friends stack up over the centuries for us seraphim. I had only a few good friends, and all of them had gone after a short time I met them. There was a pirate captain who pulled me back from the brink and a Shepherd who taught me that aside from our creeds, we’re all flawed and must accept who we are, no matter our shortcomings. I still owe them both to this day. At the time, his death hit me hard, but today, he’s just one of my many farewells.”

Sorey and Mikleo suddenly felt a pang of insurmountable guilt. Sorey scratched his head, “I’m sorry. It must have been painful to remember him.”

Zaveid kept his pose and was ignorant to Sorey’s remorse, “He was interesting and a great man….”

Mikleo recoiled at Zaveid’s praise. It seemed out of his character to gloom over and complimented someone. But his mouth instantly curved into a broad smile, and his loutish mood came right back, “Let’s stop there. If I go on about my old friend any longer, he would be upset. No worries, I’m like him, a man who lives in the moment and not like someone who views everything as a win or loses situation.”

Zaveid grabbed their shoulders and pushed them toward the sauna, “Alright! Let’s all go together! That means you too, Shepherd!”

Sorey resisted, “I’ll pass. I…”

Zaveid maintained his grin, “Unacceptable! As men, we need to be open and blah blah blah, something something!”

In the sauna, Mikleo talked about the history of saunas until abruptly disrupted by Sorey.

“Mikleo, do you think Alisha’s ancestor and Zaveid’s friend are the same people?”

The water seraph heaved a breath, “That’s unlikely. What’s the probability of some nobility being connected to a random shepherd that Zaveid knows a millennia before?”

Sorey crooked, locking his hands together, “Mostly zero percent, but…” he glanced at Zaveid as he focused on directing his wind powers, guiding the flows around the hot steam. “I think it’s worth a try.”

Mikleo and Sorey smiled at each other with anticipation and excitement. They pumped their fists together,

“Then, the hunt is on.”

Present time, Midgand

Avernus drifted awake. His eyes fluttered open just long enough to catch the warm sunlight streaming in. He felt the soothing heat of the morning sun shone on his skin. He smiled to himself. The radiant outpouring of positive vibes flew through his body, giving him a fresh and new feel. Like his bond had been cemented. His hand snaked his side only to find it empty. After stretching himself, Avernus pounced from his bed and slid into his clothes. As he put on his long white coat, he noticed the tear had been entirely disappeared. Avernus squinted his eyes and felt a hint of tiny sewing traces that were invisible to the naked eye.

“Did she mend my coat? ”

Avernus hooked the golden chain of his coat’s collar, grinning to himself. The shepherd walked out of the cabin and entered the corridor toward the mess hall. As he stepped into the room, Avernus was greeted by a table filled with different dishes. His eyes flashed around the colourful plates, nearly drooling as the delicious smell invaded his hungry senses.

“ Who made these, and for what ?”

“Hi!” Laphicet and Lailah welcomed him. His gaze wandered, and he noticed the two young malaks sitting beside each other. Avernus crashed on the nearest chair and went directly for the closest dish.

“Morning, younglings!”

Lailah frowned, “It’s not morning. You overslept! It’s noon already!”

Ignoring Lailah, Avernus picked the chopsticks and quickly swallowed a big piece of a baked fished like it never existed in the first place.

Lailah groaned, and Avernus raised a brow, “I’m sorry, Lailah, but I’m so hungry, and these are irresistible.”

“Velvet-san made them. She stayed all morning in the kitchen.”

Avernus grinned widely. His eyes brightened as he remembered the last night’s fond events.

Eleanor and Rokurou entered the room, followed by Magilou. Eleanor squinted her eyes at the Avernus. “Mind your manners! You’re a Shepherd!”

He slowly looked up at her, “I’m hungry. You know me: food before anything.”

“Avernus, don’t talk with your mouth full! You’re getting food everywhere!”

Avernus narrowed his eyes. “H-u-n-g-r-y…”

Eleanor rubbed her forehead, sighing, “You did it again! Look, it’s all over your face. Act your age for once!”

Laphicet laughed audibly, “It’s because Velvet’s cooking is so good!”

Lailah felt threatened, envious, and annoyed. She glanced at Phi from the corner of her eyes, “Oh, I’m sure that’s not the only Velvet-san greatest Phi -et!”

Contrary to her expectations, Laphicet chuckled in return, “You’re right! I’d be Lailah -ing if I said I didn’t enjoy our pun -pportunities!”

Lailah blushed, cupping her cheeks to hide her embarrassment, “You came up with a pun on my own name?! That’s… brilliant!” Lailah then nervously took a sip out of her teacup, hiding her anger behind it.

“Thank you. It’s nothing, Lailah. Let’s do it some more time!” Laphicet jumped from the chair and went to the kitchen, turning halfway back to Lailah again, “Do you want some cake to have with your tea? They’re very tea -sty!”

Lailah’s face instantly heated up, faking a generous smile for Laphicet. Avernus glared at her, “Why are you so worked up?”

Lailah slid her chair closer to Avernus, frowning. She pressed her lips as she groaned silently, “Oh, that boy! I need time to think of a comeback!”

Avernus shook his head and snickered, “It seems you’ve found a competitor punster among the Menagerie.”

“I won’t let him upstage me next time!” Lailah declared, taking another sip from her teacup.

“Laphicet is sharp. Maybe it’s best you two work as a tea -m instead?” Avernus boldly said, making her even angrier. Lailah huffed at him and immediately left the table. Rokurou joined Avernus and helped himself with some of those dishes. Eleanor, hands on her hip, marched at them, “Do you realize you two hold your chopsticks incorrectly?”

Rokurou chucked, giving her an impressed glance, “Oh, you noticed! It’s an original way I came up with myself because I didn’t want to imitate Shigure growing up! Pretty original, ain it?”

Eleanor frowned, “No, It’s not! It’s horrible manners!”

Avernus suddenly speared a piece of meat and pointed it at Rokurou. “She’s right. That’s disrespectful.”

Eleanor nearly screamed in anger as veins bulged on her neck, “Avernus! That’s… That’s even more atrocious! Why are you eating your food like that?!”

“What did I do?”

Eleanor shook her head from side to side, eyes still flaring, “I can’t believe you! This is just common decency. You should’ve learned them a long time ago.”

Avernus lowered his head, breaking off his eye contact, “Hmm… Even I can’t use them as drumsticks?”

Eleanor paraded toward them. She coiled her fingers into a fist and scowled, “Corrupted manners at the table leads to a corrupted soul. Hold your chopsticks properly.”

Rokurou rolled his eyes, “I’m a daemon, so I think that ship has already sailed.”

Avernus sighed, “Before meeting you guys, I never used chopsticks back in the far-continent. “

“Properly!” Eleanor ignored their naggings and yelled at them. Hairs straightened behind their necks.

“All right, all right! Fine!”

Rokurou quickly changed his style, and Avernus tried to mimic him. Suddenly, another voice wondered in the conversation,

“Who’s doing what wrong?” Velvet asked, entering the room alongside Laphicet as she brought a freshly baked cake.

Avernus immediately raised his head, and their eyes clang into one another. Velvet intuitively smiled but quickly reverted to her usual self.

“I made some more cake.”

Magilou smirked wickedly. “You seem cheerful, Velvet. Spending all morning in the kitchen and making breakfast, lunch, and dessert for everyone! It's like you've got married and became a good wife last night.”

Velvet rolled her eyes at first but slowly smiled. “I’m fine. I've made these to show my appreciation for what Phi and the rest of you have done for me, and I guess I have to thank you, as well.”

Magilou locked her hands behind her head, “Perhaps! But gratitude doesn’t suit you.” She leaned, “...Now, say 'ahh.'”

Velvet narrowed her eyes and stared bafflingly at her.

“I need to see your teeth! I made a hundred gald bet that you’d break, remember?” Magilou reminded her and winked at Velvet. “So, I need to see if you’ve broken anything. Let’s start with those teeth.” Magilou tipped her head at Laphicet, “Help us out, kiddo.”

Laphicet beamed and nodded, “All right. I need to check her front teeth, right?”

Magilou grinned widely, “Front teeth, canines, whatever. Just get in there and take a good, hard look. Make sure you don’t miss anything!”

Velvet blushed, and her voice stuttered, “You didn’t mean that literally, did you? Why are you making Phi do the checking?”

Magilou rubbed her chin and maintained her malicious smirking, “I could’ve asked Avernus to do it, but he got what he wanted, and it’s not that fun anymore. I suppose that some say that showing the inside of your mouth can be more personal than being seen naked. So I might have to ask our Shepherd to do that too...”

Laphicet threw his arms up in some kind of defensive posture, “Wait! Seriously?!”

Velvet flashed a wrathful glare at Magilou, “You’re making this even more awkward! And neither Avernus nor Phi have nothing to do with it!”

Magilou’s eyes flashed with mischievousness, “Act like an innocent maiden as much as you want. But you promised, and we made a bet. Come on, will you cooperate or not? We can’t settle it until we know the tooth!”

Velvet grunted, raised, and clawed her bandaged hand in a threatening fashion, “Fine. But let’s check the ones in my left hand first.”

Magilou glanced at the small normin behind her, “Good! I believe Bienfu can assist with that.”

The witch snatched him and hurled him at Velvet. Bienfu shrieked as his small body twirled like a ball in mid-air, “Why me?! Leave me out of this!”

The normin landed directly in Velvet’s opened hand. The Lord of Calamity curled her fingers around Bienfu’s soft body.

“Bieen! She’s squeezing me! Ouch! Those fangs hurt!”

Rokurou put down his chopsticks and turned to Eleanor, “It seems spark has returned to Velvet’s eyes but is showing the inside of your mouth really that embarrassing?”

Eleanor instantly blushed and frowned at the swordsman, “What?! Keep your prying questions to yourself, Rokurou!” She then scrambled toward the deck, leaving him dazzled. Rokurou shifted his attention to Avernus as the Shepherd sliced off a piece from the fresh cake and took a bite.

“Hey, Avernus. Why is this “showing inside of your mouth” so mortifying for women to discuss?”

Avernus raised a brow and swallowed the cake, “It’s like domination. If you’re not at the dentist, opening your mouth would mean that you’ve submitted to that particular person.”

Rokurou kept nodding, then burst into a laugh, “Now I got it! Magilou is devious, as always.” Suddenly the smile slowly died on his lips as Velvet approached them, wearing her subtle cold face.

“Don’t overeat. You’ll get a stomach ache.” Velvet advised delicately, picking up the dirty dishes from the table.

A smile flickered on Shepherd’s face, “You made them delicious, Velvet. I can’t help it. And you made a lot!”

She blushed a little and closed her eyes, “That’s... because I had a lot of free time. That’s all.”

Avernus stood up and pushed his chair back into its position, “Well, you fixed my coat and cooked. Time for me to help out.”

Velvet moved her body between him and the table, barring him from picking the dishes, “Phi offered the same thing, but no. You all done a lot for me, especially Phi.” Velvet glanced at Laphicet, making his cheeks crimson a little.

“T-that was nothing, really.”

Rokurou stood up, looking all hyped and excited, arms akimbo, and he declared: “We fought an armatus, an Empyrean, a dragon, and two legates! It’s a miracle we’re still alive. But those made a good training session.”

Magilou waved her hand in the air and grunted, “Anyway, I lost that bet, and I was so sure I was going to win too!”

Velvet skipped towards the kitchen, shaking her head, “An awful lot of drama you’re making over 100 gald.”

Magilou quickly chased after her, “Don’t you dare laugh off 100 gald….”

Avernus turned to Rokurou, “What’s the situation? How’s Zaveid doing?”

“Still out. Laphicet and Lailah did a lot to keep him steady. Innominat’s power is no joke.” Rokurou replied.

“Where’s Eizen then?”

“On the deck, sending sylphjays around the clock to Van Eltia. We ought to meet them in an hour or less.”

Avernus shook his head, “I guess things aren’t bad as I thought. I need to see Kurogane as soon as possible.”

“Why?”

Avernus pulled the broken sword out of the ether. Rokurou’s eyes widened and leered at the golden blade, “Still not as impressive as Stormhowl, but… it has some mystery to it.” he touched the broken hilt, and it easily cut his finger, “Ouch. It’s still sharp.”

Avernus titled the sword around, “You have no idea….”

Magilou shadowed Velvet as they entered the kitchen, smiling wickedly.

“Do you realize you’ve been smiling for hours now, Velvet?”

“Don’t be ridiculous, Magilou.”

“You’re the one acting ridiculous, Lord of Calamity! You were supposed to pout and hate, not go soft on us.” Magilou put her left arm flat against the wall, leaned on her left shoulder, and crossed her legs. Looking impishly at Velvet, she grinned. “So, how was Avernus?”

Velvet exhaled, dipping the dirty plates in the foaming water in the sink, “...I don’t know what you’re talking about, and I didn’t go soft on anyone.”

“Of course, you didn’t!” She mocked her, “I will ask again clearly this time: how is Avernus?”

“He’s fine, I suppose. He is a good man, a great listener, a remarkable warrior, and he often shows signs of intelligence.”

Magilou rolled her eyes, “You know what I mean. Last night, when the boy was out, and Lailah stayed in his room, you weren’t there. I checked.”

Velvet stayed silent. Magilou whistled, “Aho, he must be quite delightful, or you wouldn’t be so happy otherwise. Was he good at following instructions?”

Velvet reluctantly mumbled. She would preferably talk about it with Niko, but Magilou wasn’t that bad, “...He had some brilliant ideas of his own.”

“Fascinating. So our little shepherd is all grown up, and obviously, he plays well with daemons too. But I’ve talked with Lailah, and he has responsibilities back in the far-continent which supersede your desires.”

Velvet flashed a glance at Magilou, looking annoyed, “I can handle it.”

Magilou giggled bitterly and stepped towards the exit, “Nothing is certain, Velvet. Not in your case and not at this time. You cannot take anything for granted, but I think it at least he takes your mind from our situation.”

The witch stepped at the door and then turned around, “Whatever, have it your way. Lord of Calamity prevailed over this shepherd in this case, or was it the other way around?” Magilou skipped off. Not waiting for her answer, she left Velvet alone with her thoughts.

Avernus went outside. Noticing Eizen scanning the horizon with his binoculars, he walked to his side. “Heard you were spending an awful amount of time on the deck.”

Eizen gestured over at a familiar ship at a distance, “Waiting to get to our ship. Zaveid’s boat did well, along with Laphicet. He did a good job of navigating harsh waters, but we need to regroup and plan.”

The reaper slowly turned to him, “Anyway, do you know anything about that horned daemon?”

Avernus crossed his arms, eyes still locked on Van Eltia, “If you want my opinion of who he is, then my answer is, maybe, but I’m not sure yet.”

Eizen groaned as he glared at Van Eltia anchoring starboard, “...We need a break more than anything. That was a long stretch of battle, especially for Laphicet and you.”

“Finding out your closest friend was an ancient Empyrean that played you for the last seven years, then some malakhim outright tell you that everything depends on what you choose and what you do while the world is fallen apart. No pressure, it’s just another day at the temple, I guess.”

Abruptly, Rokuouro hit his back, nearly pushing him into the railing.

“So… Avernus…” Rokurou smirked, promoting Eizen to do the same thing. They stood side by side, shooting evil glances at Avernus.

The shepherd tipped his head to the side, looking proud, he predicted what he wanted to say, but he was wrong.

Eizen shook his head, “You’re crazy. You know what you’re getting into, I hope.”

Rokurou let out a laugh, “It’s your funeral, Avernus. But you are aware that there’s going to be another time and other people that are less life-threatening, are you not?”

Avernus gazed at the Benwick and their crew preparing to use wooden blankets, “Will there? You don’t know that. I don’t know that. I want to be able to say that I threw caution to the wind at least once.”

Eizen smiled at him, “Of all places, time, and people, your decision just does not make sense, at least not to me.”

Rokuoro folded his arms, “If you want to play it this way, then do it. It’s a challenge, and I like men who take on challenges like that!”

“Well, in any case, good to have you on our side,” Eizen said and marched at Benwick. Avernus nodded, and his attention was shifted to Kamoana, Dyle, and Medissa. Joy fluttered across their faces, hurrying towards him.

After an hour, the two ships reached the waters of Zekson bay. Avernus went down to the lower decks of Van Eltia to meet the blacksmith. Amidst the hundred swords and rapiers, Avernus carefully stepped on small open spaces in between until he reached the headless daemon. Kurogane whirled towards him, “What do you want, Avernus Diphda?” the daemon addressed him harshly.

Avernus folded his arms, raising a brow, “Someone’s not in the mood, I see.”

Kurogane coiled his fingers into fists, “That Empyrean destroyed my orichalcum blade! Like it was nothing!” blacksmith grunted and complained, his voice resonated in the room.

“As you said it, he was an Empyrean. A god-like being that not many earthly tools can subdue him. In the meantime, however….” Avernus pulled his broken sword out of nothingness and threw it at Kurogane. He caught it effortlessly. At first, he casually turned it around, but then he timidly titled it about. “What is this? Where did you get this sword?”

“It’s an ancient blade that belonged to Susanoo, a dead malak. He used it to wound Innominat once. If you want revenge, reforge it, and I promise you that I’ll deliver a sweet vengeance on your behalf.”

The headless blacksmith moaned continuously for a minute, “Whatever metal used for this blade is in a class of its own. I've never seen anything like it.”

Avernus pulled the remains of his destroyed staff, “Is this enough?”

“The energies of a Malak made physical... Yes, this might work.” Kurogane groaned in annoyance and turned on his heels, “Go, I’ll send word when it’s done.”

Avernus nodded and climbed the stairs back to the hall. He surveyed the room; everyone was there except for Velvet. He made his way over to Eleanor, Laphicet, Lailah, and Rokurou as Lailah told them more of her adventures with Avernus when he was younger. The shepherd silently moved behind them. Eleanor sighed and trailed off. Laphicet looked at her worryingly, “What is it, Eleanor?”

She suddenly pulled back from her dream, “Oh… no reason. Listening to Lailah got me thinking about all the siblings out there. Every pair has its own special, unique bond. Like Avernus finding Lailah, then treating her like his little sister and not a tool to be used.”

Rokurou chuckled, “But your long face tells a different story. it seems there’s more to it.”

Avernus appeared from behind Rokurou, “Anything you want to share?”

Eleanor’s eyes widened, and she quickly turned her head around apprehensively, “I-I mean it when I say it’s nothing, really!” she then glanced at Laphicet, “Um, well… Laphicet, have you ever felt as though I treat you like my little brother?

Laphicet beamed slightly,” A little. Sometimes after you became my vessel, I started to realize that’s probably how you saw me.”

Rokurou nodded, “As a younger brother myself, I definitely agree that Laphicet gives off little bro vibes.”

Eleanor gratefully smiled, “Yes, exactly. So my treatment of him is second nature. Although, on the other hand, I do wonder if I’d make a good older sister in return.”

Rokurou massaged his chin in uncertainty, “If you’d make a good older sister? Yeah, I’m can’t help much there.”

Laphicet’s face lit up, “I wouldn’t know either. But if you wanted to be an older sister figure to me… I’d be okay with that.”

Eleanor flashed a cheering glance at Laphicet, “Thank you.”

Rokuoro snickered, “Well, if you’re worried about your big sister's vibes, why don’t we consult an expert instead? Velvet, what’s your opinion?”

Avernus whirled his head around, “Velvet?! Where have you been?”

She stepped closer to them, “I need to get back to cooking, so make this quick.”

Avernus frowned, “Cooking? Again? Zaveid’s ship was one thing because it didn’t have a crew. But Van Eltia has its chef. So why you’re cooking again?”

Velvet indifferently looked the other side, or at least it was appeared to the rest of them, “I felt like doing overtime. What is it? You don’t like my cooking?”

“That’s not it! You need to relax a bit. For goodness sake, Velvet, you deserve it more than anybody.”

“You don’t need to worry. Cooking is relaxing enough for me.” She then turned to Eleanor, “I don’t think this is something worth fretting over. You’re an only child, aren’t you?”

“I am, but that’s not what I….”

Velvet quickly resumed, “I still wouldn’t worry about it. For starters, unlike other exorcists, you don’t treat him like some tool. Seeing him as a living being is the first step.” She then heaved a sigh as if she was going to say something hard and out of her character, “It’s clear you love him, and he seems content. I think you’re doing plenty fine in the role, even if you may be an only child.”

Laphicet chuckled out of nowhere, “The two of you sure have gotten close. Not long ago, I couldn’t imagine you talking like this.”

Velvet gave Laphicet a curious glance, “Close, hah?”

Rokurou grinned full teeth, “He meant what he said. little brothers don’t hold punches.”

Avernus leaned in closer to whisper in Eleanor’s ear, “Can you distract Velvet for ten minutes?”

“Why?” she whispered back.

“Dinner’s on me tonight….” Avernus signalled Lailah, and they both silently slipped away to the kitchen while Eleanor called to Velvet.

Ar the kitchen, Lailah hurried near Avernus as he searched the cabinets, “You’re doing it for Velvet, aren’t you?”

“Yeah, she’s taking this too far. It’s just fair to help her out.” Avernus picked a few tomatoes and onions and placed them on the table. He took the knife and glared at the ingredients, “There sure are a lot of tomatoes to dice… And I still have the onions to get after them, too.”

Lailah stood side by side and started to cut some onions, “Then I’ll help.”

Avernus raised his brow, “Just like old times? hah?”

Lailah skeptically turned to Avernus, observing him, “Your hair… you’re not hiding its colour anymore, and its longer now,”

“Kind of used to having long hair. It’s not that bad, though. Three years sleeping in a sarcophagus will do that to you, and we’re not in the far-continent. I don’t need to maintain the charade anymore.”

“...You’ve... changed,” Lailah said abruptly.

Avernus stayed silent, chewing his lower lip.

Lailah looked at his face again, “You were not the same when you were in far-continent.”

“... My mission as a Shepherd is coming to an end, Lailah, it’s a new world. I’ve got to accept that things have changed.”

“What do you mean?”

“We the shepherds, Artorius included, were always pushed to bear the weight of the world, but none knew what happened within our hearts. After a while, you start to think you can change the times by yourself, but that’s not it. Artorius wasn’t the only one who felt that way. We all did. Look at Velvet; the kinder you are, the bigger the toll it takes on you.”

Lailah blinked faster, letting out a silent, gloomy moan.

Avernus sliced a piece off of butter and dropped it into the pan,

“We have to fight with ourselves within our hearts. And we have to be strict to come to the right conclusions. Even if it means our battles here to date were meaningless. I must accept it. I wanted to turn back Velvet into the kind girl she once was. I hoped something triggered her to remember and calm her down.”

Lailah noticed Avernus was squeezing his fists, “It’s just, I don’t know if I did it or not….”

Someone cleared their throat, “You did what now?”

Avernus turned his head around, catching Velvet’s amber eyes as his glances trapped in their radius. He took a deep breath, steadying his nerves. “Go back to Eleanor and Laphicet. We have this.”

Velvet glanced around the counter, “...Hold on a second, weren’t these tomatoes part of our emergency rations?”

Avernus broke into a tense smile, “Ah, they were?...”

Velvet’s eyes casually shifted to the pan, “...And you used the fancy butter, didn’t you? Use the cheaper stuff next time. They all taste the same.” she scolded him mercilessly.

“But he did it to help you!” Lailah defensively said.

“Is that so? I find it irrelevant to the points I’m making, though.” Velvet replied uncaringly. “He used high-quality ingredients where he didn’t need to. This is why men are so useless in the kitchen.“

Avernus stretched his body to full height, “Then teach me. Take me as your apprentice.”

“No, go back to the hall before you mess things up.”

“I won’t touch anything. I’ll stay here and watch the professional at work, you know, spend more quality time.” He then winked at her.

Velvet causally passed glances from Avernus to Lailah, weighting their innocent faces, “Well, when you put it like that, it’s not like I can refuse you.” She picked up a kitchen knife and started to dice the rest of the tomatoes elegantly on the chopping board, “I’m not much of a teacher, so you’re just going to have to watch and learn, got it?”

“Your desire is my command,” Avernus spoke with a deeply accented voice.

Suddenly, she faintly felt his breath on her neck. Avernus was looking over her shoulder rather than staying beside her. “You’re watching… I hope.” Velvet skeptically said.

“...Uhum. There’s a lot I’m curious about.”

Lailah politely stood beside Velvet, “Can I stay and watch? I want to learn too.”

Velvet sighed, “Be my guest. It’s not like more people are going to make a difference.”

“What is your secret recipe, Velvet?” Lailah asked again.

“There is no secret recipe. I think about how to bring a smile to the face of whoever eats it.”

Lailah was baffled. Nothing made sense to her. Velvet was a daemon, but she was kind and passionate at the same time. Phi already told her of her unfortunate fate and what they went through. Lailah understood how much Phi and Avernus cared for the lord of calamity. She flashed a glance at Avernus; he was smiling proudly. She didn’t know Velvet, but she knew him, and Avernus was happy and proud. A face she didn’t see since a long time ago.

Even feeling a little bit envious, Lailah smiled to herself; even Velvet was a daemon,

she was undoubtedly the mom material.

As the ships docked in the port, Turtlez, the merchant, unloaded several boxes for Eizen. However, the reaper of the seven seas was tensed for unknown reasons. He shrugged off the feelings and ordered the Van Eltia to stay in the port while they returned to Zaveid’s ship. New boxes piqued Avernus’ interest, “What are these? And why are we returning to Zaveid’s scout ship?”

“Turtlez just brought some new clothes that I ordered. As for the ship, we’re going on a vacation, and it’s safer for Van Eltia to hide in here and not sail the open waters. We can move faster and safer.”

“Vacation?” Avernus took a step nearer and opened one of the chests. “These are swimsuits….”

“Yes, time to let go of that seriousness and get some rest….” Eizen said hesitantly. He immediately trailed off.

“Is something bothering you?” Avernus asked.

“...No.” Eizen sighed, and with his signal, the boat left the docks for Yseult beach.

Avernus settled into bed but soon alerted to his cabin door slightly opening. He was expecting Lailah. However, Velvet entered his room reluctantly.

“Oh, hey, Velvet. Come in.”

She gradually stepped in, “Lailah and Phi are still talking. I figured your room is quieter.”

“Why didn’t you go to Eleanor’s room?”

“Eleanor and Magilou are talking… about us. I can’t handle it right now. I need some rest.”

“They always do that.”

Velvet grunted, “If one more smart comment comes out of Magilou’s mouth, I’m going to devour her whole!”

Avernus laughed, “You’re so practical. You make me proud.”

He shifted to the other side of the bed, making space for the lord of calamity to slide in. He crossed his arms behind his head and stared at the ceiling, “You know, I was thinking; when…” he turned his head to his left and found out that Velvet had disappeared.

“Velvet?!”

“I’m here.” her voice came from below the bed.

Avernus rose and saw her sitting on the ground. He growled and frowned, “Why are you down there?”

“I’m fine. I’ve been sleeping this way since three years ago.”

“Not anymore.” Avernus patted the empty side on the bed, “Don’t worry about me. I won’t bite. I know you’re tired.”

Velvet sighed, and after a bit of hesitation, she slowly got up and sat stiffly on the side of the bed like a serious samurai, refusing to lay down. Avernus smirked and laid on his back again, “You know, I was thinking, when we go to the far-continent, I have to duel a few nobility over you.”

Velvet slowly turned her head, shockingly, “What?”

“I mean, everyone wants a girl with exquisite appearance, being badass, and wife material. Songs of your charming elegance will spread to the city. Young noble knights will flood to your feet and beg to fight over you, and I have to settle differences about your betrothal.”

Velvet scowled at him, but Avernus was seemingly lost in his dream as nonsense kept blurting out of his mouth, “...And since I’m the challenged man in the duel, tradition dictates that I select the weapon.” he chuckled, “Imagine; you standing there, praising and cheering, and watching me as I defeat them one after another. After all, I don’t want to give a poor first impression for my bride.”

“You are crazy, Avernus. I’m not some prize for men or for you to challenge over!”

Avernus used his right elbow to lay sideways, “I won’t call it a prize, but I’ll take you as my bounty from this quest in Midgand.” He said like an arrogant, cheesy prince.

Velvet entirely spun on her tush on the bed as a mild annoyance brewed behind her golden eyes, “What if I say no?”

Avernus narrowed his eyes at her, “I’ll tell you one thing: I don’t intend to let you get away if that’s what you’re thinking. shepherd or no shepherd, I’ll find a way to make it work.” He suddenly dimmed, “I know what Artorius felt when he lost Celica, and it scares me. I don’t know what happens if Phi and I lost you.” His brows knotted, but a hint of sadness flashed behind his eyes, “I don’t know If I’m any different than Artorius… I would probably burn the world if you...”

Velvet remained firm and heaved a sigh, “You’re different than Artorius. You must be stronger than him. If something happens, you mustn’t….”

Avernus cut her off, “I won’t allow it.”

“Don’t say that. You don’t know what the future holds for me… It’s too late, I...”

“We’ll fight anything that future throws at us… Do you remember what Phi said? We’ll fight the whole world, both of us, if we have to.” Avernus held her gaze for a minute, declaring stridently. “We’re selfish. All in all, I’m your Shadow, lord of calamity.”

Velvet broke their eye contact, hiding her eyes behind the long strands of her hair, “This is wishful thinking, Avernus.”

Out of the blue, Avernus ran his fingers along the inside of her smooth hair. An electric shock rippled through Velvet’s spine, “Another good thing is that I can enjoy your silky hair whenever I want, and that’s not wishful thinking.”

She crimsoned but kept her scowl and tried to change the subject, “What are you going to do now?”

“Other than making you happy, you mean? Cause with your attitude, I expect that to be a pretty full-time undertaking.”

Feeling insulted, she frowned even more, “Do you mean I’m bad-tempered?!”

Suddenly, without answering her, Avernus crawled closer and glanced at her mouth, “I need to check those teeth.”

Her cheeks pinked as Velvet forgot what their argument was about, “Wait... what?”

“Open those lips. I need to check the tooth.” He demanded.

The corner of Velvet’s mouth curved into an evil smirk, “Fine.” She opened her mouth.

Ignorantly and haughty, Avernus leaned to look closer. He then touched her lips and...

Instantly her jaw closed shut, and her teeth clinked.

“ Ouch! ”

Velvet squared her shoulders, grinning wickedly at Avernus as he twirled on the bed, holding his finger, “So, how was my tooth?”

Avernus pressed his lips in pained movement and held his bruised finger. “It’s fine!”

Looking contended, Velvet leaned back until they both heard the door whirled on its hinges. They looked and saw Lailah in the door frame, watching them puzzlingly. Velvet quickly jumped out of bed and went to the door.

“I’ll see you in the morning,” she said casually and paced to her room. But Avernus had one more card to play,

“Wait! Before you go….”

Velvet turned to him once more.

Avernus smirked, “...have I told you that I love you? Did I? Well, it won’t kill you to hear it again, will it?” he mockingly said. Velvet groaned vexingly and skipped to the corridor.

Lailah sat on the bed, “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine.”

Lailah opened the lock on her hairband, twirling her head and letting her hair loose. She pulled and held her silver comb towards the shepherd. Avernus took it and gently brushed her hair.

“Did Miss Velvet hurt you?”

“No, not now. But she did about a week ago.”

“Yeah, Laphicet said that she said something that broke your heart.”

“Yes, that’s exactly what she did… Velvet even said she wished me dead.”

“But he also said that she lied,” Lailah added.

Avernus smiled, “Phi is too smart for his own sake. Yeah, this is a little bit complicated.”

“But why?”

“Why what, Lailah?”

She hesitated for a moment, “Why do you love her that much?”

“Define 'that much.'”

Lailah lowered her head, “You didn’t come back. When I found you, you threw your life away in that prison like it was nothing… You were more careful before.”

Avernus sighed, “I don’t want it to look like a cringy romance cliche, but it’s a long story.”

“Laphicet told me all about it, but I still don’t get it.”

He chuckled faintly, “It isn’t complicated. I liked her. Then I felt that I needed her in my life. Who doesn’t want a hot, immortal girl that kicks ass and looks good while doing it?” He said sarcastically.

Lailah’s eyes widened, “You’re joking again!”

Avernus paused, “Everything Phi said to you is true, but… I figured that I’m selfish, and I wanted her for myself. It’s so simple.”

“Sometimes, it seems to me that you want her as a trophy.”

“Maybe… everything has a price, and I’ll take her as compensation for all of the trouble this continent had pulled me through.”

“But you’re also lying again. You want to take Miss Velvet away from here... for her safety. That’s what Laphicet says.”

His hand glowed with magic, and it went through the comb and to her hair, giving it a shiny fresh look, “A bit of this and that… She’s stubborn, but she got no choice. I didn’t get her back easily, only to lose her at the end.”

However, no word was heard from Lailah. Avernus stopped and checked her face, only to find out that she fell asleep. He slowly laid her on the bed and pulled the bedsheet over her.”

“ Sweet dreams, Lailah. ”

The next morning, they landed on the Yseult beach. Laphicet cheered and raced outside in his new white swimsuit, “This is my first beach vacation. I’m so excited!”

Eizen and Rokurou marched to the beach, “It’s not so bad to enjoy some vacation every once in a while,” Rokurou said as he gazed upon the golden beach and the blue ocean.

Then, Avernus and Lailah came out. Laphicet’s glance automatically shifted to the fire malak; Lailah wore a white and red tunic dress over her red bikini. She tipped her white hat, glancing back at Laphicet. He blinked faster as his cheeks turned a shade pinker. “Y-you look beautiful, Lailah.” Laphicet’s words came out in a rushed whisper as his fingers played nervously with the strap of his satchel.

Lailah batted her eyelashes, “I do? Thanks, Laphicet. You look awesome too!”

Laphicet scratched his head, “Y-yeah, Velvet picked these up for me.”

Rokurou rushed to his side and patted his back, “Let’s make a stag beetle fight a hermit crab and see which is stronger!”

Avernus gazed at Rokuour; he had his swimsuit alright, but his sword was still strapped tightly to his back,

“Do you really need that, Rokurou?”

Rokurou cocked his head proudly, “Well, yeah. This sword is my partner, and I’m going to use it to cut watermelons!”

Avernus rolled his eyes. Suddenly, the girls gingerly stepped out of the ship; Eleanor was wearing a long blue shirt on her black swimsuit and walked backward as she was checking Magilou with widened and shocked eyes, “Oh my, Magilou! Did you decide to wear it in public?!”

Magilou took pride in her tiny bold pink bikini and giggled, “Indeed I do! A summer flower wilts all too soon. I must ensure I enjoy my time while I have it!”

Then finally, Velvet wandered out of the ship. Avernus darted up a brow and grinned as he gawked her.

She wore a short pink silky cover-up and tied it over her chest. A torn, thin denim shorts was over her bikini bottom.

Velvet swept a glance at him to recognize his approval and then immediately shifted her attention to Magilou, preserving her right as being hard-to-get as she tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear.

“We won’t stop you, but you should at least be careful of sunburns.” Velvet said to her.

Eleanor pulled a bottle out of their basket, “There is some sunblock if you’d like.”

“You’re too kind, Eleanor, but I think you two need sunblock as well.”

Eleanor nodded, “Yeah, I’ve sensitive skin. And I haven’t had time off in years.”

Velvet smiled, “I’m not judging you. I’ll do your back, all right?”

Magilou slid closer, “Velvet, dear, could you do mine too?”

Velvet sighed, pulling the cork from the bottle, “Yeah, yeah. You’re such a pain.”

Avernus raised his arm, “Velvet! Do mine too!”

Abruptly, she shot a furious glance at him, “Of course not. Do you want to attract unwanted attention? We’re wanted fugitives.”

Avernus narrowed his eyes and frowned, “Huh? What it has to do with doing my back?”

Velvet moaned angrily and ignored him. Avernus turned to Lailah and saw her laying down on her stomach as Laphicet applied sunscreen to her back.

“ Jeez, I have the worst luck in the world ….”

He rambled to Eizen and Rokurou. They smirked, “Back to the boys, eh, Shepherd?”

Avernus dropped on the sand and put on his diving mask and fins on his feet, “I’m going to dive. Eizen, if you don’t want to look like a reverse panda, take off those sunglasses.”

Eizen removed his shades for a moment, “Watch out for that Kraken queen, Avernus! She’s still out there, looking desperately for her husband!” Eizen snickered.

“Whatever,” Avernus put on his goggle. Abruptly, Velvet paced to him, “Hey! Remember that we’re doing this to relax. Don’t get all excited and hurt yourself.”

Avernus let out a sigh behind his mask, “Sure, mom.”

“And make sure you stretch before you go swimming, all right?”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah.”

Avernus dived in the water and disappeared beneath waves.

Nearly an hour had passed. Avernus swam back to the beach and whirled his head around, searching for Velvet among the dense crowd.

He noticed her unpacking more of their lunch under a nearby large umbrella,

“All this is even more tiring than normal. Some simple noodles for lunch will do just fine.” Velvet said breathly.

Lailah, Phi, and Eleanor slid their way to Velvet’s side,

“You should take time to relax, too, Velvet,” Phi advised, his white cheeks still red from all that running around.

Eleanor nodded, “Yes, You seem like a mother during summer vacation.”

Velvet’s eyes widened. She brushed a hand on her face, “That’s totally the case, isn’t it?”

Avernus marched to Velvet, dropping his scuba mask on the sand and sighing in disappointment, “Time to challenge that case.” he said as he instantly snatched her off her feet, flashing a cocky smile for her, “Time for “mom” to have some fun on the beach.”

Phi gasped, and Eleanor bit her lips while Lailah cupped her hand over her mouth.

Her anger flashed red-hot behind her eyes. She frowned at Avernus, baring her teeth.

“People are watching… Put - Me - Down this instant!” She whispered in her hard and threatening tone. Avernus ignored her warnings and shrugged her off. Velvet pulled her arm backward as Avernus’ smug face vanished behind his baffled look, bracing himself for a slap.

It felt like a sharp whip. Avernus' eyes dimmed, and his pulse pounded in his ears.

“I’m not your prize to do whatever you want whenever it fancies you!” Velvet landed on her feet and huffed as she trailed off back under the umbrella. Avernus touched his bruised cheek. His mind raced, generating thousand possible excuses for why that happened.

Velvet plopped down on a short chair, crossing her legs and folding her arms. Avernus strolled to her side, tanking all the glares and gazes from the rest of the people on the beach. He sat beside Velvet on the sand.

“I apologize. I didn’t consider your consent.”

Velvet winced and turned her head away even more.

Avernus shook his head, “I just want you to have some fun once in a while.”

Suddenly, Velvet picked a bowl of noodles and held it toward him while avoiding his eyes, “Here. Eat your lunch.”

“Well… thanks, I was hungry.”

“Don’t go swimming right away, or your stomach will cramp.” Velvet advised scoldingly.

Avernus looked up to Velvet as she was sitting on an elevated level. “Alright, but in turn, go and have some fun with Eleanor, Phi, and Lailah.” He gestured at the two young malaks playing with a beach ball around Rokurou and Eleanor as the swordsman was cutting watermelons while wore a blindfold for the young exorcist. Velvet glanced at them for a moment, then her tense mood lightened.

“Go, I’ll keep an eye for our lunch.”

Eleanor, Laphicet, and Lailah waved at her from afar. Velvet slowly skipped away, and Avernus stared after her, smirking. Abruptly, Magilou crashed beside him. He turned to her, chuckling at her long pigtails.

“Need any snack?” Avernus asked amicably.

Magilou let out a snarky scoff, “Ugh, Avernus, can you chill with that ‘power of friendship’ stuff? You’re going to give me a cavity.”

Avernus nudged his shoulders, “Lord of Calamity’s orders.” He then twirled noodles around his chopsticks, turning them into a nest.

“So all this time we’ve spent together... you know: the tragedy, the brushes with death, the constant battles with daemons and the Abbey, with Innominat’s threat looming over us… will you miss it once it’s over?” Magilou asked, jeering afterward.

Avernus slurped all of the noodles in one go, “It makes me tear up just thinking about it.”

“There will be no more sailing around. No more running from the Abbey, and no more slapping from the lord of calamity.” Magilou continued, smiling wickedly in the process.

“Well, I have to disagree with you on the last part.”

Magilou stroke her chin, “Hmm?”

“Enjoy her cooking while you still can. I will take Velvet away from here. Midgand wasn’t fair to her. She can slap me all she wants, but leaving her in this land with a misguided bunch who thinks she’s evil is out of option.”

Magilou raised a brow, “...And do you think far-continent will be any different?”

Avernus finished his bowl, glancing at her from the corner of his eyes, “We’ll see.”

Magilou rose on her feet, “Oho! Taking her by force! I guess a white knight is looking after the big bad wolf.”

“If I’m the white knight… I guess that makes you the evil witch.”

She spun on her heels playfully, "You bet I'm!"

Out of the blue, they saw Eizen marching toward the ship with the rest of the squad following him. A dark, negative feeling interwoven in his soul. Avernus picked up the basket and ran after them.

Eizen coursed through the crowd on the beach while Rokurou scanned the skies. Avernus finally reached them. His senses tightened as he noticed their tensed faces. “What happened?!” he inquired, but Eizen didn’t answer. He yanked his arm, “I said: what happened?”

Eizen whirled his head at him. The pain, the anger, and worry were bubbling behind his eyes. Avernus saw a note and a short-pole kind of instrument in his hand.

He swallowed; it was a small yellow umbrella, the same one that Edna used. Avernus’ facial features scrambled.

“A flying malak dropped them….” Eizen regretfully mumbled.

“One of those malaks that always follow Lucian,” Rokurou added.

Avernus snatched the note and unfolded it,

“Come to Baird Marsh if you wish you see her alive, pirate.”

The shepherd recoiled. His chest heaved from anger. He stared Eizen directly in his pale eyes, “He found, Edna, didn’t he?”

Eizen winced, narrowing his eyes and closed his face an inch from Avernus, “What did you say?” He grunted, “How do you know her?!” Eizen demanded discordantly.

Avernus pressed his lips and stared back directly, “Yes, I know that little oddball, and you left her alone to fend for herself when you knew you have enemies such as the Abbey, you ignorant fool!”

“Who did you call oddball?” Eizen quickly shoved him back against a nearby wall.

Avernus glanced uncaringly, “Hands off, pirate.”

“How do you know about my sister?!” He fastened his grip, clenching them into fists, “Tell me before I splatter your brain out.”

Avernus poked him, pushing him in return, “Why should I tell you anything? It doesn’t help her now, does it?”

A blinding inferno of rage stacked up in Eizen that felt too big to be contained, “It’s because of you and your stupid teachings!”

Velvet’s brow furrowed in confusion, “Stand down, both of you!” she ordered.

None of them backed down. Instead, Avernus titled his head, narrowing his eyes further, “If you want to hit me, then do it, you big bad reaper.”

Eizen flared up and stalked toward him, “Happy to oblige!”

Before Avernus could react, Eizen pulled back his fist and smashed it into his jaw.

Avernus hit the ground with a heavy thump and tasted blood in the back of his mouth.

Avernus sucked the wound inside his mouth, “Well, have it your way then!” He quickly scrambled off his feet and shot himself at Eizen with incredible speed. The reaper felt a piercing pain in his bare chest as he stumbled back and was threw off-balance by Avernus’ magical punch. Avernus charged up for a follow-up attack, and Eizen pounced for another hit. Suddenly, Avernus sensed Velvet’s cold bandage arm on his shoulder, and his powers were suddenly sucked away instantly by her therion ability.

Eizen then glued on his tracks as Velvet’s wrist blade was an inch from his throat.

“Stop it this instant, or I’ll discipline you two overgrown brats myself!”

Avernus and Eizen paused for a moment and collected themselves.

“Now, shake the hands of each other.”

They both sighed and slowly strolled to each other, “I’m sorry for making fun of your sister.” Avernus apologized and extended his hand.

Eizen darted a glance at Velvet then to Avernus, but instead, he paced to the ship. Avernus clenched his empty hand. Lailah and Laphicet came to his side, and as he nodded, they followed Eizen to the boat, readying themselves for the journey back to Zekson.

Magilou pulled her pen and opened her notebook. She swept a glance at the Menagerie’s troubled faces from the top of the mast as the sun began to set on the horizon,

“The charm of them threw everything out of order.

Their pure hearts suffered in a world where answers couldn’t be found.

Those that thought tenderly about their loved ones in those situations realized just how powerless they were. They became hasty, and their souls crushed in return. But they pushed on, shining.”