-Chapter Fourteen-

Split Apart

With Lia and the rest of her family in tow, Aria led them out the front of the inn and into the busy, bustling afternoon city. People of all walks of life in a varade of different clothing, and dozens of carriages roamed the streets. Stalls selling all sorts of exotics sat lined up, outside buildings of all trades down the roads. As she led them forward, she couldn’t help but bite her lip and nervously glance over her shoulder behind her. In doing so, she saw Aelius’ keen eyes watching them from afar as he remained seated at the table where they just finished their lunch. She doesn’t know how she ended up babysitting a group of tourists but there’s no way she can screw this up if she wants him to keep her around. Despite her acting, Aria knew very well that he had close to not an ounce of trust toward her. What a dilemma. The more she tries to earn his trust, the less trustworthy she will seem in his eyes. Yet the more she tries to betray his trust, the more she proves him right. What can she really do? Though she hid it well on her face, she felt grave concern for him. The first drastic change he went through was at the Academy. The second was just the other night. The aura around him was becoming ever-more dark.

Memories are Power. Though Aelius kept recalling this thought, he could not recall where he had learnt such an idea from. As his eyes watched Aria lead Lia, Leo and their two uncles into the busy crowds and slowly disappeared, he felt his mind wander. He knew for a fact he was missing memories of his past life now, and he knew for a fact that the skills and abilities he had learnt in those missing memories were currently missing as well. His Divine power was originally pure until he learnt the Path skill, and the only thing that changed was the fact that he recalled snippets of his past life. He even forgot about the Phoenix’s Love skill, but it activated on its own somehow. The only reason he could suspect why is because it was technically not his own skill, it was an inheritance, so it sticks with him even if he’s forgotten. Though Phoenix’s Love might remain, who knows how many others of his powers he cannot call on, all because he’s forgotten them. Hence, Memories are Power. For some reason though, that thought filled him with sadness. He took a sudden, deep breath and pushed the thoughts away, rising to his feet and getting a move on himself. Time was of the essence, and now that the biggest obstacle was removed, there’s no reason to delay. He followed the pulsating signals of the corrupted Divine power, similar to his own, through the winding city streets. With a hood over his hair as he had always done, he navigated the alleyways and avoided drawing attention as he approached his destination. From what he’s managed to piece together so far, with the information from his past life, the first appearance of the Devil he encountered at the age of eighteen was not the actual first appearance of them. No doubt, Alea’s death was one of many that had been happening for a long time without anyone ever knowing. Not just that, but it was likely that even currently, a whole three years before Alea’s death, that they have infiltrated society. They were clearly intelligent creatures, and capable of doing such. The only difference was that they possessed intense bloodlust, and they were far stronger than any mage. Taking that into account, it’s safe to say they could have garnered some form of cult-following of humans or life in general, that follows their bidding. The only question was how far the corruption ran. His first lead is none other than the Aerianne Archduchess. He never suspected her in his past life, thinking she was only a psychotically deranged woman, but it makes more sense if she had someone backing her. Considering that the poison he knew nothing about in his last life was actually a product of the Devils, it all came together. Three years until Alea’s death. Four years until the Saints invade Farrien from the Southern Coast. There’s no time to delay.

She was already expecting him by the time he arrived. No doubt, because she could sense his movement drawing closer to her, she had time to ready a reception. When Aelius arrived, he found himself coming upon a large manor, enclosed within high, large walls. A barred gate sealed the entrance, but Aelius found the same maid accompanying the Sad Saintess the other night awaiting him. As soon as he was within earshot range, she politely bowed to him.

“Welcome, esteemed guest,” she coolly greeted as she opened the gate to allow him to enter. Aelius eyed her for a moment before he entered, stepping past and the gate fell shut behind them.

“You don’t have to worry about the formalities with me. I know your mistress is the only one you serve,” he remarked warmly to her as she led him to the front door.

“Our mistress introduced you as her kin, so I must respect her wishes. Though I don’t know how she could have kin without any family, it is not my place to judge,” she coldly responded, and Aelius chuckled. As cold as always. “I didn’t know she said so. We’re not blood related, so…”

“It does not concern me,” she retained her stance as they arrived at a door, radiating a strong, corrupted power. The maid knocked on the door softly before calling in. “Mistress, I have delivered the guest.”

“Enter,” her familiar voice called from the other side, and Aelius stepped inside to see the familiar sight of her seated beside a windowsill, sipping on tea. Her veil was removed, though she still wore black, now revealing her shining blonde hair and emerald-green eyes. Aelius blinked in surprise at the sight of the young Saintess. So this is how she looked before seven years would pass.

“Please, have a seat,” she offered, and he placed himself opposite her. “You came sooner than I expected,” she remarked as the maid set a cup for him before him and skillfully filled it with tea.

“Thanks,” Aelius nodded to her before she slipped away into the corner of the room to stand guard. “Well,” he turned his eyes back to the Sad Saintess. “I have no time to spare, so that’s why I came so fast.” He looked around the master bedroom curiously for a moment. “What are you doing here in Farrien? Shouldn’t you be in the Imperial Capital?” he asked.

“How mysterious. You know much about me but I know nothing of you,” she responded with a small smile before sipping her tea.

“Ah… haha… well, let’s just overlook that, shall we?” he nervously realised he had a slip of tongue.

“It’s fine. I already know that the Goddess of this land is hailed as the Goddess of Time and Fate, and I can feel from your Divine power that you are her Chosen. Though, it seems tragedy repeated itself.”

“Shit, Tia,” Aelius sighed. “You asked me the same thing last time too and I didn’t know what you meant. Now I do,” he sat back and sighed. “Yes, somehow, I returned from the future.” Her eyes lit up as his words, but she quickly calmed herself.

“You don’t know how to use that power then, I’m assuming?” she asked.

“I can’t remember much either. I only know that I died. Or, I think I died,” he responded with a frown, trying to recall the events of his first life.

“Hmm… well, it seems that you’re on some sort of mission to me,” she observed. “With the knowledge of the future, do you intend to save this world?”

“I don’t care about this world, or most of the people in it. But well, you’re here, firstly,” Aelius smiled back at her. “I know you can just escape somewhere else, but it’s no fun living a life of running away from world to world, being unable to settle down somewhere. The people I love are here too, and my family. So, I’ll…” Aelius narrowed his eyes and took a sharp breath. “I’ll become the Ruler of this place.”

“I see,” she softly smiled, with her kind eyes glowing. “Clearly, the years have not been kind to you either.”

“Wouldn’t you know it best?” Aelius asked her. “How…” he clenched his fists. “How deplorable our fellow man can be?” The Sad Saintess looked out the window with longing eyes at his words.

“Since arriving here, I’ve discovered that humans can be kind too.”

“Well, I guess you’re right,” he sighed. They gazed at each other for a long moment before Aelius spoke.

“I could use your help. I need people I can trust. I can’t be everywhere at once, and there’s far too many vulnerable people I can’t let die.”

“Well, I can’t do much,” Tristia shrugged.

“Make an organisation,” he told her firmly. “Starting this moment. And… name it…” a small smile spread across his face. “Name it The Misguided.” Something about the name resonated with them, and she looked at him in wonder.

“Was… that something I did in the future you returned from?” she asked and he nodded.

“That’s right. I won’t tell you more, because… well, you already know,” he shrugged. “And that’s also what I came for today as well. I already have one candidate for you. I think you’ll love him,” Aelius said with a smile. The woman opposite him appeared cold to many at times, but he knew better than anyone she was an incredibly kind soul, and especially weak to children. She always wanted to have a child with her late-husband, but never got the chance. As the woman sat there in deep thought, she looked at him with eyes of emotion.

“Of course I’ll look after him, even if he’s not a candidate, because it would have been your request. A diviniator told me there’s definitely a way to return to my husband. It’s not a matter of “if”, but “when”. So, when you figure out your powers. Please.” She dipped her head. “Please remember me and help me.” Aelius quickly sprung to his feet, putting a soft hand on her shoulder.

“What are you doing, bowing your head to me?” He dropped to one knee, looking at her earnestly. “You don’t even have to ask. I’ll definitely do everything I can to help.”

As Aelius returned across the city in his own, deep thought, he recalled Tristia’s words with interest. “It’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when.” If the diviniator from her world was speaking the truth, I should be able to control time? Or at least, I can ask Stecia to, he wondered, looking at his hands. But how?

It was a relief when Aelius returned to the inn to see Aria had carried out her mission without fail. Lia and her family were safe, thankfully, already waiting for him at the dining table. “Welcome back,” Lia greeted him with a beaming smile as he took his seat. The faces on the uncles were also bright, though Leo was broodingly silent in the corner as usual.

“Thanks,” Aelius answered to Lia, taking his share of food. “I have something to discuss with you all.” Their chatter died away as they began to keenly listen. “Tomorrow, we’ll be moving.” Aelius looked to Lia. “We’re going to split up. Lia, you’ll be coming with me and Aria. Where we’re going, we can’t bring Leo and your two uncles.” A look of disappointment befell her face and her gaze drooped.

“Oh… how long will that be for?” she asked.

“At most a few years. Maybe shorter, depending on how things play out.” Aelius looked to the uncles.

“Leo is going to be taken in by an acquaintance of mine, someone trustworthy who will help him grow immensely.” The uncles frowned as they exchanged glances, before they looked back at him.

“Even if you take Lia away, why can’t you just leave him in our care?” the spearmaster asked.

“It’s simple. There’s no way you’ll be able to take care of him when you can’t even look after yourselves.” A look of offence flashed across their faces at his words. “You two have to try to at least reach the Sixth Tier. As for Leo, his growth will be far more. Maybe once you two are capable of surviving on your own, you can reunite with the rest of your family.” The two uncles pursed their lips, looking like they wanted to object, but found it difficult to refute his words.

“We’re Fifth Tiers! That’s more than enough to survive,” the spearmaster answered.

“Is it really, though?” Aelius narrowed his eyes. “A great calamity is coming, but even if we assume that calamity is never going to happen, Fifth Tier is still far too weak. Who was it that had to come and save you in the middle of a forest? Until you can at least fight off your fellow man, don’t dream about being protectors. Your pride will only cause these two children their deaths.” At his harsh words, the two uncles clenched their fists in anger. “Don’t beat yourself up too much, though. You two have done amazingly well to take care of them both until now. It can’t have been easy, and your efforts are definitely praiseworthy. It’s just, now you must focus on yourselves. Without Lia and Leo around to devote yourselves to, I’m positive you can become strong warriors.” Their faces lightened at his words of encouragement, and they relaxed, sighing deeply.

“I suppose you’re right. Taking care of two children while trying to raise our Mana rings is too difficult,” the spearmaster admitted.

“Yes. And we’ll all meet up in the Imperial Empire in a few years time. In this period, I’ll make sure Leo and Lia are well looked after.”

“Okay…” the two uncles gave in. “Let’s do that.”

“Then it’s settled,” Aelius smiled, looking to Lia, who was gazing at her uncles with worry. Placing a firm hand on her shoulder, he gave her a small, encouraging smile. “Life is filled with goodbyes, but with them come new beginnings. Don’t lose heart too much. Once you’re stronger, you can live with them again.” She inhaled sharply and gave him a nod.

“I know. They’re hunting me, and I only bring them danger. I have to get strong enough to protect them.”

“And you will, for certain.” He gave her a soft pat on the head, and turned his eyes back to Aria. “As for you.”

“Mmhmm?” she placed her bowl down to meet his gaze.

“It’s time I paid the Aerianne Duchy a visit.” A perplexed look flashed across Aria’s face.

“Do you really think you can? My father is at the Seventh ring, and my mother is at the Sixth.”

“I’m just telling you so you know. Once we get there, you’ll be staying with Lia. We’ll only be staying for one night, as well, and leave first thing the next morning. You got it?”

Softly, Aria nodded.

“Is it too much to ask you to… maybe spare her?” she nervously asked and Aelius pursed his lips.

“It is. You know better than anyone else what she’s like, and my family is in danger.”

“Right…” Aria sighed. “I guess so.”

That night was the family’s last night together. Aelius and Aria kept off to the sides as to not intrude on the mood, while the other four spent their final moments together. Though Leo was the same always, Lia was very dejected in the early hours of the evening. The blademaster decided to take her on a walk, and when they returned, they wore brighter faces. Morning soon came, and it was time to say their goodbyes. Aelius left a moderate share of money in the two uncle’s hands.

“It’s not much but, hopefully it can keep you on your feet for a while.”

“It’s more than enough. You’ve done so much, not just for Lia but for the rest of us as well,” the spearmaster gave him an admirable smile. “We’ll live up to your expectations,” he looked to the two children. “And we’ll get stronger so we’re worthy to stay by your side.” He ruffled Leo’s hair, and the child silently looked back up.

“Good luck,” Aelius told them with a smile, and gave the blademaster a firm nod, before he turned away. “Let’s not dawdle.” At his words, Lia was just about to pull away but in the final second, quickly threw herself into her two uncle’s embrace.

“I’ll also get stronger, so I can fend off any trouble that comes our way,” she vowed to them.

“Good. Don’t forget to stick by Young Master Aelius’ side, too.” As Lia drew further away from the two with her younger brother, she waved at them, and they gradually faded out of sight. Once they couldn’t be seen anymore, Lia turned her eyes back ahead of her, silently walking with Leo’s hand in her’s. Aria stuck to Aelius’ other shoulder, purposefully looking elsewhere, trying not to pay the girl any attention while Aelius snuck a glance occasionally. As she walked, he noticed her lip tremble, and she would reach up to wipe her eyes, but otherwise stayed silent. Today is going to be an emotional day.

Just like the previous day, Tristia’s maid was ready to receive Aelius when he arrived, though this time, the welcome was far more receptive, with Tristia and her butler coming to the gate themselves, just as Aelius was stepping up with his group. Tristia had the maid push open the gate, smiling to him from behind her veil before her eyes quickly scanned the two girls by his side.

“I see you’re also assembling your own faction of the Misguided,” she remarked with teasing in her tone and Aelius rolled his eyes at her.

“Here’s the child. What do you think?” Aelius took Leo’s hand and walked him to her, and she dropped to her one knee.

“Hello, you adorable little thing,” she greeted him with her face lit up. “I’m Tristia. What’s your name?” He simply stared back at her with sullen eyes, and her smile only grew.

“I’m sorry!” Lia sprung forward and dipped her head. “He can’t talk.”

“Yeah, really,” Tristia rose to her full height. “He’s quite similar to you, Ael,” she told him.

“I thought so,” Aelius answered with a nod. He has an ability similar to Alter.

“I’ll make sure he grows up able to protect himself,” she assured him. Aelius leaned into Lia’s ear and softly whispered to her.

“It’s time to say your goodbyes.” With a pained expression, she nodded and quickly firmed her resolve, kneeling down to Leo’s height and pulling him into a tight hug, her voice trembling as she spoke to him.

“Leo, we’re going to be apart for a little while, but this nice Lady will take very good care of you. Make sure to be listen to everything she says, okay? I’ll… I-I’ll be back for you someday.” His typically lifeless eyes finally showed some soul, though only for a brief moment, and he hugged her back with a soft nod. Aelius tore his eyes away from them with a deep breath, turning to Tristia.

“I have something I want you to safeguard on his behalf until he’s grown up enough.” He fished out a small box from his coat and passed it over for Tristia to receive, who snuck a look inside and blinked back at him in surprise.

“Is this… a musket?” she tilted her head. “I didn’t know technology like this existed here.”

“It’s not quite a musket, but no.” He leaned in to whisper to her. “Things like this will become commonplace in a few years, but right now, I’m the only one with them.” A look of understanding flashed across Tristia’s face.

“I will make sure he is both physically and emotionally mature enough to handle one of these,” she assured him and Aelius smiled warmly back to her.

“I’ll be counting on you.”

It was another emotional goodbye as Lia waved from down the street to Leo, who was now holding the hand of Tristia, standing at the gate and silently watching as Aelius’ party left. Just before Lia was out of sight, the young child raised one hand and weakly waved goodbye, his face wearing a sad expression for the first time, and then Lia was out of sight. Left all alone now, Leo watched as the gate slid shut, sealing the deal that he was now in the care of this woman.