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Chapter Text

Garroth Ro'meave was born into Lordship, and soon into nobility - but that's getting ahead of ourselves.

He lived in the ever expanding village, soon to be city, then kingdom, O'Khasis. With his overbearing prideful father, and his sweet blissfully naive mother. 

The first thing he remembered learning was how to hold a sword. A real one. 

He hadn't even been taught to crawl nor walk yet, and somehow he had gotten his hands on one. He wasn't in trouble as much as the guard in charge of watching him was. 

But even still, in that age where everything was simpler  - he remember how he felt wielding a weapon... he felt... good. 

But those feelings were quickly replaced with that of dread as he spent his youth being raised to speak in full sentences, then quickly to speeches he would be giving his future people. His to walk and then how to glide like a royal monarch which his Father was hoping his eldest would find a way to do, how to hold his utensils, how to speak properly to the villagers - when and where to give command.

Garroth's Father would yell and snap at him, should he apologize for messing up, trip over his words, add a 'please' and 'if you can' at the end of every request - but it wasn't a request! It should've been a demand - a command!
He grew to resent and fear his father over the months, especially when his father would parade him around the city - have him spend hours making sure he looked like a king and walked just a few inches behind the Lord, to appear though even Garroth will be Lord someday there is still someone more... powerful, than him.

He hated that feeling more. Giving command... every time he walked the streets with his father to pay mind to their farmers and miners, he longed to be at home with his pregnant mother to ensure her safety and his future brother's safety as well. 

There was something else too. Something he enjoyed, when his father was away and Garroth had personal guards of his own, he would... talk to them. Try to be friendly, try to get to know his guards, and he did particularly enjoy speaking with one of the very young apprentices; Jeffrey. He was Garroth's brother before Zane was born.

When Zane was born... it changed absolutely nothing for his Father. For Garroth will always be the firstborn, set to inherit their city now, and Zane was just another child his wife adored.

And Zane knew it too. Zane could feel, any child could feel, when a parent didn't love them.

Zane may have looked the most like their Mother, but she loved him and Garroth equally.
Whenever Garroth could escape his Father's patrols or Lordship lessons, you could find him at two places:

1. His mother's side with Zane

or 2. In the Guardmen's tower.

How he loved watching them fight and train and he, a teenager at this rate, stood proudly in the group of small children who watched their heroes practice on in awe. 

"Hey," One of the guards had approached him one evening. "Do you wanna give it a try?"

Garroth held his breath, "May I?" He held out his hands and the familiar grip of the sword brought him back to that fuzzy memory. He sure he held the same goofy smile on his face, if only for a moment. "May I try... May I try what you have all been learning?" His eyes were sparkly and hopeful, but the guard laughed gently.

"Woah now, that's a little too advanced for you... how about we do some beginner stuff?"

"Beginner?"

"Yeah... what just because you're a Lord doesn't mean you never have to yield a weapon! You never know what might happen."

Garroth's father had scolded him for bringing up the idea of a Lord wielding a weapon.

He had said; "The Kings of old only took arms when Lady Irene called for war, as a very last method of self defense... a real Lord will use all of his resources, all of his guards, before finally picking up a weapon."  

In truth, it had made Garroth's sick to his stomach at the idea of sacrificing the man he saw before him before he would lay his own life on the line. 

"You.... You are right." Garroth nodded. "Please, teach me how to start becoming a Guard."

... For a while, it was perfect. He would go on walks with his Lord father and charm his citizens, assist mother in caring for Zane, and then her new baby she was about have, and sneak off to go learn how to use a sword. 

The Guard who was teaching him that the prettiest, most shiny blue diamond sword he had ever seen. While the rest of the Guards held swords of iron and gold... and the ones shielding the High Priest held swords of Frost.

It was a gift and an honor to be able to hold, if just for a few hours.

When Vlad was born, Garroth was learning the more advanced skills he remember watching on in awe at.  His Mother made a comment about his muscle, and how big he was getting. If his Father had an inkling or observed his muscular grow, he didn't mention it as much as his dear Mother had.

Nor... as much as Zane. "If you get any bigger, you might crush the baby." He teased, but there was an edge to his voice Garroth couldn't shake. 

The truth was Zane had grown to envy Garroth for never being present whenever his father was also absent. He knew Garroth was to become the Lord, he knew he was being trained... Zane must've been jealous about it. 
Father would speak proudly of Garroth in any company. 

"He is doing so well, he holds all the proper feats to become a Lord... but there is never too much practice, yet I am certain when I pass, my son will be an excellent leader." 

Zane would intentionally act out around Garroth - whenever he was watching, and rebelled and threw fits any time Garroth had tried to calm him down and tell him how to behave. A tactic Garroth learned his brother had picked up in order to prove he was no Leader. He couldn't even control his own brother!

But Zane realized shortly in his attempts, once he had reached double-digits in his age that his Father didn't care of Garroth had control of his own family - it only mattered if he could control the people.
So, Zane suddenly took an interest in religion and history - following around hte High Priest guards - only not being shooed away from being the Lord's child. Everyday he grew more of a hermit, sheltering inside his room with books of all sorts and hours spent in the church. 
He admired the guards too, but not for the same noble reasons Garroth did, but rather for their cloaks they wore in honor of the church.

"The Cathedral is the second highest in command." Zane spoke matter of factly to Garroth one day, who stood tall in the Lord-Meeting room at the head of the table. He was to be practicing more speeches, and how to address other people of importance.
For some reason, Zane was there.

"Should the Lord perish and is left with no heir, the people often look to the Priest for guidance and leadership."

"I didn't know that."

Zane scoffed, "A pity you did not." 

... "My baby brother was just born." Garroth told the guards, a newfound determination in his posture and speed.

"I know," His teacher, Raven, replied with a smile. "Congratulations, you're a big brother once more."

Garroth smiled proudly before his face morphed into something serious. "... I want to learn even more today. I want to protect Vlad. I want to protect my brothers." 

Raven eyed him. "What of Zane?"

Garroth frowned. "Of course I want to guard my younger brother with my life, I just... he is in relations with our High Priestess, he has own personal guards that follow him now everywhere... not to mention he is under the gise that Lady Irene is all the protection he needs." 

"I see." Raven nodded, "Well. Let's begin then if you are going to protect your family."

Guard got into his proper stance, holding his diamond sword tightly.

It was to be expected that his once lovely home became a place people would "Pass through" now.

Ever since their Lord was murdered and the villages homes destroyed... there was a shrinking population, three guards, and dead crops as far as the eye could see.

Garroth had been a loyal citizen of Phoenix Drop for nearly two years - and to see it like this... it was...

"What are our next options?" Zenix asked, staring up at Garroth expectantly. 

He didn't know. He hadn't known since the Lord's... "Stand guard." Garroth repeated like he had every other day. "Until we hear word from other villages... perhaps if there is room to spare we can travel who is left to Brightport..."

"And what of Scaleswind? That is a prospering village in itself."

"No." Garroth shot down immediately, trying to ignore the guilt he felt when Zenix frowned hurtfully at him. "Scaleswind is... it is too overpopulated. I do not want us to be separated from the people... the Guard is all that they have left." 

They were silent for a few moments.

Just days before the Lord of Phoenix Drop was murdered and his family missing, Garroth had found little Zenix here wandering the woods by his lonesome. The boy was pathetic and weak yet was stubborn and refused to let Garroth catch him in for questioning - he picked up a stick from a tree and swung it wildly at Garroth.
It was humorous... and a valiant attempt at fighting. 

Without thinking twice, Garroth had lowered his weapon, mocked surrender, and asked if Zenix would be interested in joining their village as an apprentice guard - their guards were mostly drunkards by nighttime and if Garroth could have someone else watch his back it would be nice to not have to keep watch in the darkness.

It was Zenix's second night of guarding when the fire occured. Zenix was horrible injured and so were most of their citizens. Garroth fought off what beasts he could but the true culprits behind the heinous massacre had escaped into the night. 

"That maiden..." Zenix muttered suspiciously, snapping Garroth out of his reminiscing as he turned to her. She was chatting up a few of their residents before making her way towards Garroth.
Her armor was dented and battered from many adventures it seemed but she removed her helmet and slowly her long black raven hair slipped like water from her helm, then she stared at him softly with her auburn eyes. "Hi there." She chirped like a song bird. "My name is Aphmau, and you are?" 

"My name is Garroth... I am the Head Guard of Phoenix Drop," He gestured to Zenix. "This is Zenix, he is my apprentice and also my second in command... we welcome you to our village, M'Lady, although it is not much..." 

Aphmau looked around, presumably she was passing through... and yet she came back. A glint in her eye. "Do you mind if I inquire what happened? Where is your Lord?"

Garroth lowered his head, "Our previous Lord had... he is no longer with us. What you see here is who remains here."

"... I see." Her voice was soft and apologetic, after a few more moments she put back on her helmet and disappeared into the words.

She was... beautiful.

And just like that she was gone.

But the next morning... she was back. With a sack full of materials like stone and wood, she hefted it over her shoulders and walked along the path. Garroth watched her with interest while Zenix was on patrol of their perimeters. 

And he was surprised at what she began doing next. Without asking, without warning, she was fixing the streets.

The missing bricks, the potholes of their stairs and path... she was rebuilding it. Fixing it.

All by herself.

And Garroth stood there in awe, as did most of their villagers. Just watching her do hard work... at some point Brendan the farmer began assisting her and speaking with her. He offered her water and she graciously accepted.

Aphmau was working for most of the day and Garroth was paralyzed at such... kindness.

"The streets..." He spoke to her the following day. "You did this...? You fixed them?"

"Oh, well yeah!" She chuckled. "I wanted to help, speaking of, I asked your farmer, Brendan? To assist me with your crops... and I have noticed a bit of a housing shortage so I'm gathering more materials to being building more houses for your people." 

Garroth's jaw was on the floor.

...This had gone on for a few more days. She acquired animals, crops, houses, somehow she even gathered a few more residents from-- "Did you know there's sunken city out on the water? I managed to convince a few of them to come with me."

Garroth had offered some help where he could, with information. Of the old Lord's house, money she her supplies and crops he purchased from traveling merchants, he even helped her settle some new residents.

And then she... began playing matchmaker. Introducing Molly to Dale, a Miner to a Farmer, she was getting the villagers reacquainted with one another like they had never met before.  

Next thing he knew-- "You're... you're married?!"

Dale laughed boisterously and proudly. "Yessir! That maiden Aphmau introduced me to one of the farmers, Molly? I had.. I had no idea we had someone so charming in this village! I mean, she was always the looker but..." Dale sighed wistfully. "Who knew?"

... Garroth had to pull Aphmau aside one day, "M'Lady... I want you to know if... what you are doing here is wonderful and I have never known kindness such as yours, but I must... I must warn you, continuing to do these tasks that you do..well... some of the villagers might mistake or - or rather assume you to be the Lord of this village." 

"Oh... no... really, I'm just helping! I was actually making a settlement for myself, just up this hill." Aphmau pointed. "Is.. is that alright? Lordship is... I don't meant to tread where I am not welcomed-"

Garroth cursed himself for making her help seem like a bad thing, "No! Not at all, M'Lady Aphmau. What are you doing here is wonderful, of course you have earned yourself a residence here. We appreciate everything you have done and continue to do for us, for the people here greatly... truly, no one appreciates it more than I." Garroth bowed himself slightly. "I am indebted to you for bringing my home back to life."

Aphmau laughed quietly and briefly grabbed Garroth's shoulders to raise him back up again. "Please, think nothing of it." 

. . .  He wasn't sure when it became official, but as their village expanded with a merchant known as Logan coming in, a population increase, Dale's son, food and crops becoming more diverse and Brendan's sister making herself at home, the building of the docks... the villagers began referring to Lady Aphmau as Lord Aphmau.

And Garroth isn't quite sure when he began addressing her as such either. 

It might have been when Zenix brought in an injured Brendan to his home and he had entrusted Lord Aphmau to Brightport to fetch a doctor and herbs to stop his bleeding.

It could have also been when Garroth and Zenix were on the lookout for the culprit of Brendan's attempted murder - and he was shot from behind... supposedly it was Lord Aphmau who had found his body, brought him back, and traveled across the sea to Brightport, to Werewolf territory, in order to bring in a cure and antidote.

And when she was the one who told him the truth of his apprentice.

His son... his good friend Zenix, disappeared into the night.

She kept the guards in order while he made a slow recovery. And did not mock him for it either. "How are you fairing, Garroth?" She entered, shutting the door carefully behind her. Garroth was doing laps around the small room he was condemned to for resting. 
When he saw her face, he felt instantly lighter. 

"Just gaining my strength back... I truly cannot thank you enough, Lord Aphmau, for what you have done for me... for this village, I-"

"Please do not thank me, Garroth. It was really nothing-"

"You keep saying that and yet, look around you. We were in ruins when you arrived and now I feel as though we have truly earned our spots back on traveler's maps. Garroth tripped suddenly and in an instant Aphmau was there helping his stand upright.
"Thank you..." He whispered.

She took a deep breath. "... You are welcome." 

. . .  When.. the baby.. had made an appearance Garroth wasn't sure what the think of it at first. Until Lord Aphmau explained it was left on her doorstep did he go into panic mode.

A baby on the doorstep?! Was the child alright? How long had it been left out in the cold? What if it was running a fever? Did anyone here who didn't already have their hands full with children know how to take care of a child? And their beloved Lord Aphmau so generous as to take care of this baby - and praise Zoey for offering to help as well -

And then Garroth came to his senses, especially after he heard a mother in Scaleswind had reportedly lost her baby. Though the child did not match Levin's description-

A darker skinned baby with brown hair.

And Levin had bright blue eyes and blonde hair - which at first Garroth had panicked over for... personal reasons... at how close Levin compared to him in physical qualities. Not that Lord Aphmau knew of his traits anyway.

Still, in the days he was protecting his Lord, he was also with Levin and Lord Aphmau. 

There was... something so sweet and.. tender sitting in the Lord's house with her, rocking little Levin back and forth while she cooed over the child and Garroth watched with an invisible smile on his lips.

Something about it felt right. 

So... he left her supplies in a chest for Scaleswind, and she had departed.

Now it was his mission and Zoey's to care for Levin in Lord Aphmau's absence, while they waited for any word back from the Lord about Levin's birth mother...

...

...

... It had been a week. Garroth sought out his wyvern, Raven, to make sure Lord Aphmau was safe. The first time he had done so he reported back good news, the second time however-

"That human, Lord Aphmau, is being escorted to a prison in Neapolitan Village, under suspect of murder."

Garroth knew instantly his Lord was innocent. He thanked his wyvern and sprinted back to Phoenix Drop. "Zoey!"

He quicklt reutrned to Aphmau's house and found Zoey in the basement with Levin in arms. "Garroth, is everything alright?"

"I must make an emergency trip to Neapolitan Village. There has been a misunderstanding with Lord Aphmau, I must bail her out of jail and clear her name."

Zoey's face fell in confusion and shock. "... Oh.. o..kay..."

"I will return within the day, I will leave Dale in charge of guarding Lord Aphmau's home, please keep looking over Levin until my return. I should not be long." 

"Wait!" Zoey stopped Garroth just as he turned for the stairs. "Aren't you going to say goodbye?" 

Garroth paused, approaching Levin timidly as his beady blue eyes bore into Garroth's helmet. There was an unspoken expectation in Zoey's mind that Garroth would remove his helmet to bid Levin farewell... instead, Garroth merely took Levin's baby hand in between his finger and thumb and gave it a small shake. Zoey 'tsk'ed out a laugh as Garroth left.

He reported to Dale, informing him he was in charge of Phoenix Drop, specifically protecting Lord Aphmau's house and by default Levin too while he was away.

Quickly and without a moment more to waste, he set sail for Neapolitan Village. Where his Lord was being held.

Unknownst to him... someone was already on his way there too. 

Chapter Text

Laurence was born and raised in Meteli, this beautiful crowded and lively village is all he has ever known and he had no intent to change that. His friends he had grown up with were born here as well.

It was a grim saying that passed around the town; "If you were born in Meteli you're destined to die in Meteli."

But that's not the point - the village prided itself on its community and relationships.
And if there was a problem? The Lord was perfectly capable of handling conflicts and keeping the peace. The villagers treated those they weren't married to like close relatives, you could walk into anyone's house and be met with a happy reaction.

It was the perfect village, the happiness one Laurence has ever known, and he looked up to his Lord. He was a very happy go lucky guy who liked to keep the camaraderie in his citizens and enjoyed walking amongst them too, like he held no real status. 

When Laurence was a teenager he recalls wanting to spend more time with his fiend, Sasha, and joking with the Lord Jon that he would work his butt off to fight along side him and protect his friends, his Lord replied enthusiastically, saying he'd be more than happy to oversee Laurence's training himself.

And he did.

Oh, Little Laurence Zavhl, raised with no intended career path and therefore no real conversation to make with kids his age. Kenmur, someone he had been very close with wanted to be a scholar, Cadenza wanted to collect flowers and garden, Castor... wanted to be surrounded by chickens, and Sasha - the only girl in the village he found was easy to talk to - wanted to be with Kenmur...

He got over that crush real quick and tried speaking with more girls his age but none of them had spared him the time of day, nor were as easy to speak with as Sasha was.
But she was always with Kenmur, the two of them studying fighting, alchemy and magic.

Not really Laurence's scene. Nor were women. 

Training under the Lord to be his personal guard was the only thing Laurence put in real effort... well, other than when he was out on a practice patrol and found an injured wyvern.

He had a long blade injured running from his tail to under his wing. Without thinking twice, Laurence had camped out in the cave with the wyvern - returning to it with herbs, water, his own blanket, any kind of medical thing he thought could rescue the poor guy.
He was so small, and kept muttering and groaning like he was trying to speak.

One day, when Laurence was attempting to get the wyvern to follow him back to his village - Laurence was ambushed by the man who had hunted the beast down. He had intended to finish the job, wanting to collect Wyvern blood and scales for some sick and twisted experiment most likely, Laurence had almost died protecting that wyvern.

He jumped in front of the blade for the creature and by some miracle - the hunter had perished in the battle, the wyvern killing the man himself. Then it did something incredible... it stayed with Laurence, lifted the boy onto his back and returned him to his village, refusing to leave nor budge until Laurence opened his eyes. 

During those times, the two have become blood, then soul bonded.

The wyvern had revealed his name to Laurence to be Ungrth, and forever devoted himself to protect Laurence.

From then on out, whenever Laurence practice sparring and fighting - without his sword - he would tackle and wrestle his wyvern like it was his brother.

The two would march on patrol, scout the village, go on errands together with Ungrth's ability to fly and Laurence's excellent eyesight from above. It definitely improved his vision, being this high up. 

As he trained and grew the ladies started paying more and more attention to him. Playing with his ginger hair, feeling up his growing muscles, and asking about his wyvern.

It was easier to give in to their expectations, flirt back, go on a few dates, he was the "Head Guard to the Villager's" and the village's golden boy in a matter of a few years.

While he hadn't heard much from his dear friends Kenmur, Cadenza, Sasha, nor Castor - they stilled visited him on patrol, they still talked and spent afternoons and breaks together. 

So much for working with his friends.

Castor, that crazy man, had taught Kenmur and Sasha powerful spells - taking on Sasha as his own personal apprentice before isolating himself on an island full of chickens.

Sasha was Jon's Head Guard before Laurence took her spot, also acting as Lord Jon's personal alchemist. People all over would come to Meteli seeking her potions. Kenmur was proud to call Sasha his fiancé. 

And then... the mission in the Nether happened.

. . . It was a while after Sasha had perished, the Lord suggested him and Laurence go on their own little mission outside of the village. They were to pick up a trade from Scaleswind and in the forest, back from the docks Laurence had only looked away for a second... he swore it was just a second... and then he heard the quiet 'phhht' of an arrow and the sound of it tearing into flesh.

When he looked back at Jon, a man he had grown to love like a father, Lord Jon had an arrow through his chest, a perfect through and through. 

Laurence swung around wildly, looking for the person who had assassinated the one person he was swore to protect at all cost... but found no one.

With Ungrth's assistance he had carried the Lord's body back to Meteli.

He had never married, so there was no rightful heir to claim the title as Lord. 

Just as fast the fight for the next rightful ruler began, Hayden, the previous Lord's friend attempted to take charge but to Laurence's surprise Kenmur  - filled with grief from his lost love and with experience on the field - also attempted to take charge at the same time.

Suddenly, it was a political nightmare.

Kenmur campaigning for rule and Hayden too. There was suddenly two separate Lord houses and even faster each candidate had their own personal guards once Laurence had turned down both parties asking for him by their sides... he didn't trust himself anymore. 

While his title as Head Guard remained, as everyone continued to answer to him whenever Hayden and Kenmur couldn't reach a consensus he quickly became the one who settled local disputes and patrolled the perimeter and skies.

Never allowing himself to personal escort nor guard anyone ever again. Not after that stupid... careless mistake.

Meteli wasn't the same since there. it was because of Laurence this whole fight began in the first place, now if you entered someone's house depending on who you sided with you'd either be greeted with open arms or a closed fist. Disputes became the norm and political interests divided their once harmonious town into two.

. . . It was supposed to be any other day in Meteli. Another miserable day, of settling disputes, flying over his small home he used to love, walking through the forests he let his Lord die in and flirt with women who would play with his hair and ask to feel his muscles.

Not many new people traveled to Meteli as the stress of the two Lords battling for rule drove away most of the sight seers. 

Chapter Text

When Laurence arrived, he noticed someone else - he had briefly been to this village before and the man demanding to speak with either a Lord or the Head Guard had a uniform that was very much unlike this place.

Curiosity aside, he almost let the man get away until - "... You have taken a recent prisoner here, and she is the Lord of Phoenix Drop, Lord Aphmau. She would never commit such atrocities with a village to take care of!" 

What are the chances of two women being named Aphmau in this small world?

Laurence sauntered up towards the Guard, who eyed him through his helmet. "I couldn't help but overhear you know Lady Aphmau?"

"You know Aphmau?" The man's deep and gruff voice was shockingly soothing to Laurence's ears and the muscles bulging through his chainmail armor were quite eye-catching.

But anyway, "Yes I do. What crime has she committed?"

The Guard turned his attention back to the man, Barret Laurence recognized, he was speaking to. "She hasn't."

"Your Lord is being held in a cell until her alibi can be proven or her innocence claimed," Barret proceeded to explain the mysterious murder that had occured, and instantly, 

"Aha! My love was in the village of Meteli during the time the murder had taken place. Everyone in the village can attest to this, including myself as the Head Guard. I wouldn't let a beautiful woman like her out of my sight."

Laurence wasn't able to tell because of the helmet, but he assumed Lady Aphmau's Guard was staring at him wildly. "Your love?" He whispered back, unheard due to his helm.

Barret listened carefully to Laurence's tale and sighed. "I will not bother everyone in Meteli, as I trust you saw her and kept an eye on a newcomer in your village... follow me, I will release her."

As the two walked off, Laurence couldn't help himself; "When I wasn't intentionally over-hearing your conversation, I actually did not overhear your name."

The man slightly turned his head towards Laurence and in the clearest voice he heard; "My name is Garroth."

"Laurence." Laurence nodded, "A pleasure to meet someone who also cares about Lady Aphmau."

Garroth sighed and shook his head. "I cannot fathom how she managed to get herself involved in something like this."

"Well, I managed to get her involve in a missing person's case..." Laurence chuckled as Garroth stared at him. "I guess she enjoyed the manhunt she tried to find other things to do."

"... Perhaps." 

When Lady Aphmau was finally removed from her cell she was adjusting her armor as they most likely took it from her when she was locked up.

"My love!" Laurence cheered loudly, being the first to greet her. "Thank goodness you are okay, you being behind bars is like a sweet dove locked in a cage..." She stared at him apathetically. "I told Barret here you were in Meteli at the time of the last murder, you have a solid alibi. Not mention I know someone as sweet and beautiful as you could not be responsible for any crime... without cause, of course."

"Well," She breathed. "Thank you."

"Don't mention it, my love." Laurence briefly eyed Garroth who had not stopped standing at the two the whole time. "By the way, is Garroth your village Guard? He seems like a nice guy. But... I will be seeing you, hopefully, another time. I must return to Meteli."

Lady Aphmau wished him farewell, thanking him a final time...

... It was, interesting, to say the least.

He hadn't expected Lord Aphmau's trip to Scaleswind be ever so blindsided by a murder charge... and a possible new lover.

But of course, if Lord Aphmau had taken up a new lover... who happened to be a guard... in the village of Meteli... that was fine. That was perfectly well, it's her life and it is her heart.
She had already refused his without even saying a word - perhaps Laurence just different. And better.

But it was fine.

"Garroth!" Lord Aphmau greeted him enthusiastically, oh how he missed her voice.

"Lord Aphmau! Thank goodness you are alright, I had sent Raven to deliver a message to you when he saw your hands tied and being escorted. He quickly turned around to tell me of this news, and upon hearing it I left urgently." Garroth took great care to explain. "I am just glad that you are safe, and that Laurence was here to clear your good name. I had mentioned that you were the Lord of Phoneix Drop and that you have been known to have great relations from villages you had passed through." 

"Thank you, Garroth. I sincerely appreciate this."

"You are most welcome, Lord Aphmau. Now I must be getting back to Phoenix Drop as soon as possible. Levin is in safe hands with Zoey and Dale, I just wanted Raven to inform you of that since you had been gone for nearly over a week now... uhm, one more thing?"

Lord Aphmau waited.

"What is with Laurence referring to you as "his love?" 

It was almost amusing how swiftly his Lord's smile turned sour and her face contorting into uncomforted. "He is a very persistent... casanova. Ignore him. Please." 

"... I see." Garroth stood up straighter, suddenly feeling defensive. "How inappropriate. I will be sure to have a few words with him. Take care, Lord Aphmau, and safe travels." 

As soon as he was done speaking with her, he marched outside to see Laurence ready to take off on a wyvern - the impressiveness aside of how he managed to tame one and befriend it - he had urgent news to address.

"Laurence, before you take your leave, if I may..."

Laurence, thankfully, stopped and turned to face Garroth. The man had long ginger hair was framed his face perfectly, at the fringe just highlighted his magnificent green eyes.

Garroth wondered if his own blue ones could pierce someone in the same way.

"Yes, Sir Garroth?"

"I have spoken with my Lord Aphmau, and on her behalf I request that you cease pursuing her, or at the very least stop addressing her with such... improper titles."

Instead of simply obliging and taking his leave - like Garroth had prayed Laurence would - the Guard's smile simply grew as he cocked a brow, placing his hands on his hips. 

"Oh? It sounds to me like you might be a bit jealous there, Garroth." 

"Wh-" Garroth's face grew hot and the entire armor he wore was suddenly too hot for him as he overheated. "I - would never - how - how inappropriate! I am not jealous!" 

Laurence stared at him before slowly chuckling and threw his head back in laughter. "Oh you truly are a gentlemen, Garroth. I will remember this."  And with that, the boy took off into the sky.

Garroth lingered for a moment longer watching Laurence disappear behind a mountain before remembering his duties and quickly boarding his boat, back to Phoenix Drop. 

. . .  All was well in Phoenix Drop. Too well, Garroth had become complacent. He had heard from Raven that Lord Aphmau's boat was found at Scaleswind and she should return within two days.

Levin had been sleeping a little roughly, uncomfortable in his crib and even less-so in Zoey's arms.

But for some reason he was at ease whenever Garroth held him. Though, it was unfortunate he couldn't become Levin's permanent caretaker - as his duty was to take care of Phoenix Drop in the Lord's absence.

He was doing his nightly patrol, passing by Dale as he made his way up the hill to Lord Aphmau's home to protect it. 

When suddenly a figrue in the shadows had caught his attention, and instantly he sprinted towards the home; "Dale! Zoey!" He shouted loudly but the explosions had rung out through the city and the flames consumed some of the structures. His villagers, his friends were running for the docks where they could while Zenix leapt out from above and landed on top of Dale. 

Without waiting a second more, Garroth grabbed Zenix by the shoulders and threw him off - quickly helping Dale to his feet.

"Garroth-"

"Zoey is in the basement with Levin, I am certain she has heard the commotion by now and placed a barricade over the staircase." Dale nodded by the two remained blocking the front doors, as Zenix rose to his feet like being thrown had truly meant nothing.

He held out his right hand from the shadows, melting into his palm, was a mighty blade. Garroth unsheathed his own diamond sword and Dale held steady his stone one.

"The boy." Zenix demanded, his voice cracklign like someone else was speaking with him simultaneously. "Give me the boy."

Garroth and Dale exchanged glances.

"Why does-"

But Garroth turned back to Zenix. "That is enough! Zenix, I demand to know the meaning of this! Please!" But Zenix bright red eyes glinted in the moonlight in the most disturbing way before he charged at Garroth with all his might.

His shadow blade bore into his diamond one, but Garroth pushed back with ease and barely dodged as Zenix was swift to aim for his chest after. Dale was right beside him, he had no restraint as he swung back just as hard but Zenix clashed the swords together and shoved Dale back into the home.

Garroth charged his former apprentice before Zenix had gotten the jump on his and subdued the Guard, Garroth was flat on his back when Zenix raised his blade to finish the job before Logan appeared suddenly - jabbing his knee into the side of Zenix's face. Turning the head of the boy as he fell off of Garroth.

Logan grabbed Garroth's armored hand and lifted him to his feet.

"The villagers-"

"Everyone is gathered by the docks safely, Brian is with them and so are Kiki's animals. Garroth nodded, rising to his feet and stealing a look at the disaster he had heard before he saw.

The roof of Lord Aphmau's home was burning and he could faintly see fire from the plaza, and the library. Not too much destruction once the smoke had cleared, thankfully. He was positive Zoey was still in the basement below.

Dale got up at the same tiem as Zenix, the four men each getting into a defensive stance before Zenix charged once more - with the intent to kill - specifically the intent to kill Garroth.

It was a long battle for the three humans, as a Shadow Knight seemed to never grow tired nor injured. Garroth found himself doing most of the attacking while Logan and Dale stayed by his side - either shielding Lord Aphmau's home whenever Zenix attempted to approach it or shielidng Garroth whenever Zenix would aim for his vitals like his neck or chest. 

At one point in the battle, Logan was catching his breath and helping Dale to his feet when it happened.

Zenix, with the intent to behead Garroth, missed gravely as Garroth slid beneath him but the Shadow Knight caught the Guard by the back of his chailman and threw him down the mountain. He jumped after him - Logan and Dale heard commotion, banging, swords hitting and a loud 'bang', and finally a painful excruciating scream before black smog wafted into the night sky.

Not a moment after, Garroth from below had shouted. "It is over... he is gone." Dale had gotten up to rush to his leader's aid but Garroth shouted;

"Do not come closer! I... I am going to put out the fires from below, please see to it that Zoey is aware they are safe... but to keep the barrier standing!"

"Garroth, aren't you g-" Logan began but Garroth stopped him.

"Please inform the others that the village is safe, but to stand by the docks until I have the fire under control... it shouldn't be long.

And true to his word, Garroth did salvage what he could of the homes, and put out the fires in what short time he had.

However when he told Logan to gather the villagers and continue their nightly patrol - he had Brian, Logan, and Dale reassure everyone that the night was going to be peaceful... while he hid in the mines.

. . . Laurence was patrolling the skies - in search of his sister, or his old friend - once more with Ungrth when he noticed a familar beautiful maiden from below. "Ungrth, let's make a pit-stop shall we?" He cooed and chuckling in his own wyvern way, Ungrth lowered himself onto a mountain where Lady Aphmau stumbled upon him not too long after he descended.

"What are you doing here?" Her voice was snappy. Cute. 

"My love! We meet again! I knew as soon as I gazed down unto the land I had to behold the angel that fell from heaven that is you."

Lady Aphmau shot him a look. He would never grow tired of her face... "Didn't Garroth speak with you about this?"

"Huh? Garroth? Of course he did, he was obviosuly envious of our love and our charming back and forth." He winked. "No matter, he's just all talk. If he really card, he would have challenged me to a duel for your heart... anyway, what are you doing out here?" 

"I'm on my way back to Phoenix Drop after visiting Scaleswind."

"Allow me to escort you home, we can ride on my wyvern together."

"Uh... okay, but I don't really want to ride with you."

Laurence put a hand to his chest. "Oh you wound me, my love... Fine. I'll let you take the helm of my wyvern, a strong woman such as you... I am sure you can tame him immediately." Subtly, however, he nudged Ungrth to pay attention with his elbow - making him aware of a new rider. "This guy has been in my family for generations, my loyal friend forever. M'Lady, take this enchanted lasso and keep me close to your heart." An enchanted lasso was a common tool used for magic users and especially magical medics to travel with a human without needing to carry them on a horse or in their arms or... a wyvern, for example.

Lady Aphmau knew this as she took the lasso and used it with ease. 

. . .  Garroth had always hid his face for the sole reason of... the truth was, he is ashamed. Ashamed of where and how he was raised and grew up. Should anyone see him, recognize him, they would know him as the runaway, failure, heir to the throne of O'Khasis. Who allowed his baby brother to perish in battle, and his younger brother to grow envious and spiteful for the rest of his life.

He left his fiancé to deal with the treaty herself, most likely leaving her at the altar in some way. 

And now, he has failed Phoenix Drop, Dale, Logan, Levin, and his Lord...

His face is not for those to see, in truth it had been ever so long since Garroth saw a reflection of his true face himself. He had been so used to his helmet, sometimes he would even sleep with it on. 

Of course he'd clean his teeth, was his face, but he was able to do those tasks without a mirror most days. And he was never a vain human being. 

It was just... easier to hide. It was beneficial in some ways too, no one could gauge his emotions, he could be quiet if he had something snappy he couldn't help but be vocal about, and it protected his head.

"Is that him?" He heard his Lord whisper to herself ever so clearly, Garroth wished he had his helmet to impair his hearing.

Garroth locked eyes with his Lord's brown ones as she approached swiftly.

"Don't look at me, Aphmau..." He pleaded.

"Garroth..." She breathed. "Your face..." 

"I... I have failed the village, the people, and... even you..."

"Nonsense, Garroth! You are my Guard, my knight!" 

But Garroth turned his head away, no longer able to take her eyes boring into his own, his hand itched to shield his face but he didn't dare move. Maybe if he was still enough, he could disappear.

"... Why did you hide your face?"

"I never wanted you to see me like this."

"Why?" Lord Aphmau demanded. 

"It is... a long story that has to do with my family... but I do not want to go into that... but... did you find Levin's mother?"

"I did... she is being held prisoner in Scaleswind, but not for any real criminal reasons." Lord Aphmau explained it short and sweetly. Garroth cursed himself, if he had stayed he would be king of Scaleswind. Would he have locked Matilda up? If he were in charge? Even then? 

"It sounds like you have quite the adventure... still, Levin's mom... what a noble woman to make such a sacrifice like that... to stay away from her own son, her only child, for his own safety..." 

"Do you... do you know Matilda."

"No, I would remember someone like her."

Lord Aphmau nodded subtly. "I see."

They were silent for a moment, Lord Aphmau was clearly wanting to discuss what happened, what Garroth had allowed to happen... "This is too much, Lord Aphmau. All of it. Zenix... Zenix was like a son to me... To think that he was involved with... with the murder of a Lord... do you know which Lord?"

"... No. He didn't say."

Garroth nodded, "I see. I wouldn't imagine he would."

"What are you going to do...?" Lord Aphmau inquired timidly.

"I'm... going to stay down here for a moment longer. I need some time to recover my pride." He suddenly grew defensive, reminded of something she hadn't even accused him of. "I am not running! I... I just.. it becomes overwhelming failing so many people in the village."

"You did not fail anyone, Garroth. I swear it." Lord Aphmau reached for his hand but pulled away when she saw they were clenched into fists. 

"Kind words, Lord Aphmau. But they do not help how I feel right now... I will be back to helping up there soon, but I think I'll start mining for some materials and try to clear my head from this mood I'm in... We will discuss more about what to do with Levin tomorrow. For now let us just make sure he's got a nice roof over his head to keep him warm." 

At the mention of her son, Lord Aphmau quickly dissipated the discussion and left. 

... At first, being freed from the lasso and joking with Lady Aphmau was fine. It was fun, and shortly after he had planned to take Ungrth back home to Meteli.

And then he saw her.

He saw Sasha.

Back from the dead.

"That woman..." Laurence breathed, his limbs suddenly heavy and shaking. "That... that was Sasha."

"You know her?" Lady Aphmau questioned.

"I know her... of course I do... no one could forget her. She was Kenmur's fiancé but she died in the Nether. Everyone who went with her on that mission saw her die... this is... is she... was that a ghost?" He looked to Lady Aphmau for confirmation, but she stared back like he was a madman. "My God... no... no, I refuse..." He was suddenly shouting, at Aphmau of all people. "I saw her die!"

"Laurence, calm yourself. Let me speak with her."

"I'll..." Laurence took a deep breath, nodding. "I'll be here, my love. I just need a moment... I'm sorry, you do not just watch someone die before your very eyes and just see them again... what kind of dark magic is this?"

Lady Aphmau chased after Sasha. 

... Laurence had found shelter in Kiki's house - as she was more than welcome to let Laurence shelter than, he will personally thank her for that again soon, but the next morning with no new news of Sasha, it was best to return home to Meteli.

He found his Wyvern splashing around in the ocean by Phoenix Drop's docks and couldn't help but laugh at the sight. For a moment he abandoned his sword and shield and allowed himself to wrestle with his wyvern like old times. 

At some point, dripping wet from the water, he had accuqired an audience. Laurence pretended not to notice, as he did with most women, and shook his head attempting to dry off his hair. When he lifted his sword and shield carefully from the ground, he looked up to be met with Aphmau's loving eyes.

"Good morning, my love. I see I've attracted quite the entourage from your town."

"Yes, they are just excited to see a newcomer is all."

"Haha, no, I do not believe that is the reason... but whatever let's you sleep at night. Do not tell me you're jealous?"

"No."

"While we can go back and forth with this all day, I wanted to talk to you about Sasha..."

"Ah... yes, she left the village in quite a hurry. I could not catch up to her." 

"That woman looked so shocked to see me when I looked into her eyes... if it truly was Sasha... we were good friends."

"Friends", huh."

Laurence suddenly laughed. "My Lady, that sounds like jealously from where I'm standing. But you needn't worry... when I was younger I had a very hard time talking to women, so I didn't. But as I grew older... and more attractive... girls suddenly wanted to talk to me, so I suppose I act this way because I'm not really interested in any of them. I just... do not know how else to conduct myself."

Lady Aphmau's eyes softened into something of pity or understanding, hard to decipher which one as she carefully said: "Well... let's work on that."

"Perhaps." Laurence considered, but he really wasn't looking for a private lesson - as much as he wanted one - right now. "Point is, Sasha was the only woman I was able to talk to - besides Cadenza - without sounding like a... "total prick" as she would call me." Lady Aphmau's eyes widened at the profanity. "I didn't love her at all but even so she was a very understanding person by nature... I would love to believe she has an identical twin sister I know nothing of but... well, how is your Sasha?"

"She's very... she acts as if she is hiding something."

"That is very much unlike the Sasha I know - or rather - I knew... She was a kind girl and very powerful magic user at that. She was the personal Lord's Head Guard, but she did work with me and Castor a lot in battles. Jon was our previous Lord - and... well... he was shot right in front of me and I was too slow to save him... now my village is in a political battle, Kenmur and Hayden won't speak to each other without it turning into a yelling match, and Cadenza is still missing-"

"Wait, the Chicken Shaman hasn't returned her?"

"... No. Castor hasn't brought her back. When I found you, I had been searching for them... Lady Aphmau, I cannot help but have a bad feeling something has happened to them. Castor would never hurt her, but he goes to crazy lengths to improve his magic. We've had to rescue him before from monsters and... and if he found a way to cure Cadenza then I'm sure it's either really simple, or really dangerous." 

"Ah! That reminds me, there was a book in Sasha's old home sealed by magicks, do you think Castor could... unseal it?"

"Castor is the only person I can truly think of... but if you know someone else, by all means ask them. I need to know what she could have written in that book, I need to know what happened to my friend... both of them." 

"Laurence... I'll help you find Castor."

Laurence was caught entirely off guard, his eyebrows raising in surprise. "My Lady, are you not needed here?"

"Not until I am sure Sasha isn't... is who you claim her to be. I have many guards and friends here who are already hard at work rebuilding Phoenix Drop before I even lift a finger. I can spare a few more days of absence."

"Very much appreciate, Lady Aphmau." Laurence suddenly scoffed then chuckled. "My apologies, I feel like I've spilled my entire life story to you just now..." Laurence covered his mouth absently and looked away. "Seeing Sasha.. or someone tha tlooked like her just... troubled me. It's funny.. the way I spoke to you just now reminds me of the conversations we used to have... Thank you for that my-"

Before Laurence could finish his sentence, Lady Aphmau pressed his own hand into his mouth and firmly held it here. "No." She repeated, firmly as ever and Laurence's hand fell limp as she let go.

"All right! All right! I can try not to do that anymore... take care of your village for now, Lady Aphmau. I will return to Meteli the moment I am restocked on my supplies... until we meet again."

 ... "So." He heard Laurence begin. 

Garroth had heard the footsteps approaching from behind but still jumped, then cursed himself for being caught off-guard. But he refused to turn around. "Laurence." He addressed, facing the stone wall of the mines in front of him. Laurence took a few steps closer, clearly trying to coax Garroth into facing him... but not him.
Not yet.
It was already hard and near impossible to avoid Lord Aphmau, he had met Laurence when they were freeing the Lord from imprisonment and had told him off about making advances on her - especially with her title as a Lord. A guard trying to start something with her was uncalled for. 

Now he was here, having a conversation with a wall while Laurence burned holes in the back of his blonde head. Speaking of; "You're blonde." 

Garroth found himself huffing out a laugh, "Yes. I am." 

"Am I gonna get to see what... color your eyes are?" 

Garroth furrowed his brows. "Do my facial features matter that much to you?" 

"Well, if you were hiding... I kinda assumed you were ugly." 

Garroth rolled his eyes and scoffed. "No. I do it for personal matters."

"I understand, I heard you and Lady Aphmau discussing your reasons when I was in the lasso, in her pocket." 

Garroth exhaled, of course, of course he heard. He wasn't entirely sure why it was different with Laurence - it must be because Laurence too is a guard, and this is just shameful behavior for a Guard. Any guard. Especially the Lead Guard, as Laurence shares the same title in his village. "Then you understand I feel rather uncomfortable sharing my face." 

"I understand but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't at least a little curious. M'lady Aphmau cares so much about you, but now I understand it definitely isn't for your looks... that is refreshing to hear from a woman." 

Garroth didn't reply, keeping his back to the guard. "Lord Aphmau is not like any woman you have ever met." He spoke confidently. "The day she stumbled upon this village . She had obviously been traveling for many months but she dropped her travels just to help our village... she saved our crops, fixed our streets and increased the population just within days. It was like she was–" 

"Sent from the Heavens itself?" 

Without thinking, Garroth turned to look at Laurence. "Yes." He breathed. "I had never been so awestruck by such kindness and generosity... to think someone like her could exist in a world where our Lord had been murdered in cold blood... though she was somewhat naive, she stayed and we began to make a name for ourselves again..." 

Laurence didn't respond right away, looking nearly awestruck. Garroth's brows furrowed until he realized, putting a hand to his face he instantly spun around - but was stopped by Laurence speaking softly. 

"You have a beard." 

Garroth 'tsk'ed, allowing himself to turn back around to look at Laurence. Face to face. He had already seen him, what else is there to lose? He couldn't possibly know of his family anyway, or of Garroth's past. "Yes. I do." He timidly ran a hand over his chin. It had gotten a little wild with his helmet shielding his face. 

"And your eyes are blue." 

"Yes." Garroth sighed exasperatedly. "They are. Anything else you'd like to make obvious?" 

"You sound older than you look." Laurence smirked. "We're similar in age, are we not?" 

"I do believe we are. But I am willing to wager I'm older."

 Laurence cocked a brow. "Twenty-four." 

"Twenty-five."

"Hm." Laurence hummed. "You look..." Laurence bit his lip like he caught himself from saying something else. "Good. Nothing to be insecure about here, you're a good looking guy." 

Garroth chose to ignore the heat rising to his face. "That must mean a lot coming from someone who I hear the ladies of our village enjoy gawking at."

 Laurence's smirk faltered and Garroth felt guilty he was the one who caused it. "It must be then, if the ladies of your village are the judge of beauty."

 "Forgive me, I didn't mean to insult you, or-"

 "It's fine." Laurence waved off. "So, what are you doing down here by yourself?"

 "If I cannot protect the village properly, the least I can do before I face everyone again is assist in rebuilding... I will mine for our materials." 

Laurence nodded, but subtly. "I am headed back to Meteli, unless there is anything I can do here and now for you, to help your village." 

Garroth felt his respect for Laurence grow. Just the tiniest amount. "Your offer is appreciated, but no. You should return to your duties, to your Lord, as a guard... Thank you for watching over Lord Aphmau while she was traveling." 

Laurence grinned. "It was truly my sincerest pleasure... til' we meet again then, Garroth." Laurence nodded before turning around and taking his leave. 

. . . Laurence had returned to Meteli on a very peaceful night... and a rather peaceful morning. Which was suspicious but the people and women of Meteli had welcomed him back casually, so at first he thought nothing of the quiet.

He should have known.
He should have known from experience every time something is going well for him, it goes all terribly wrong in a matter of seconds.

Had he had known... had he had known these would be his last few moments of his peaceful, domesticated life, he might have just stayed in Phoenix Drop.

... When sunset had come during his patrols all hell broke loose in one of the to-be-Lord's homes.

Thankfully, that was around hte time Lady Aphmau had made her presence known. 

"Lady Aphmau, thank heaven you are here. Hayden and Kenmur are at each other's throats right now, so I haven't been granted a second to go check on Castor."

"I will go check on him."

"Alright, I apologize, I would head over with you but I have to keep these two from ripping each other's heads off. If you want to take your shot at peace, I suggest emptying your pockets in the chest before doing so, you can retrieve them when you leave. I'm sorry, it's just policy."

Lady Aphmau did in fact briefly empty her pockets, peaked inside, and just as quickly left. Laurence almost let out a laugh, he couldn't blame her. It was getting nastier and nastier in there and Laurence feared what another day without Cadenza would do to his beloved village. 

The next morning she had returned, looking shaken but Laurence had paid little mind to it, as he was exhausted. "Aphmau," He sighed. "The 'meeting' between the two Lord candidates is over. And no one died, thankfully. I came to meet up with you, but I see you've already met up with Castor."

"Actually, I did not... when I visited his home he was gone and there was blood coating the walls and a note from Sasha demanding he turn himself in, in the Nether."

Laurence felt his heart go still and his ears ring. "... No.. this... this isn't good... if Sasha truly left that message... I'm... I'm afraid of what it could mean."

"Castor could be in danger." Aphmau spoke lowly.

"More danger than you could possibly imagine. Did you hear about what happened to the Lord of Brightport? He was reportedly taken to the Nether and when he emerged from that realm he was lost his healing magicks. "

"I do know this... I was the one who freed him."

Laurence put aside quickly just how impressive that was, be still his beating heart. "What is in the Nether that Sasha would want Castor to go there?" 

"Castor's magicks! He was able to weaken a Shadow Solider, I saw it!"

"Do you suspect what happened to the Lord of Brightport could happen to Castor...? No! If... if that is the case, Cadenza will be trapped in her current form for the unforeseeable future, and Meteli will lose their only magicks user."  Laurence tried to take a deep breath, but the longer they stood here wasting time, the more danger Castor was in and the more power he could possibly be losing with every second that goes by. "Aphmau, I hate to ask this of you but we need to get to the Nether right now!"

"We?" She repeated incredulously. 

"Yes. I am coming with you, use a lasso and take Ungrth to travel to whatever portal is closest if you must, but we cannot waste anymore time!"

"The portal is in the Werewolf tribe, is that... are you okay with that?"

"Do what you must, but let us be on our way!"

... When Laurence was free from the Lasso, they were in the Nether. He had only been in here once before... with Sasha, Castor, and Kenmur on a mission.

Instinctively, he looked into the east side of the Nether where he remembers hearing Sasha scream in pain... She had chosen to give her life for their escape. Once the Shadow Lord had their eyes on their group escape was near impossible... without her sacrifice, they all would've... he shook his head and begun to follow Aphmau's lead towards the fortress.

It was instantly that the Shadow Soliders and Shadow Knights knew of their arrival for the battle on the bridge begun just as fast as it had ended. 

Laurence wsa keeping good pace with his Lady throughout the castle, with each Shadow they had torn down, until they found Castor.

Behind bars with a near invisible and incorporeal Shadow Lord. It's eyes were shut in a mediative state, if Laurence had to guess, and there was Castor.

Which a shit-ton of chickens in the jail cell with him.
Again.
Laurence could laugh if the situation wasn't so dire.

Lady Aphmau took the lead in demolishing the bars that held Castor captive, Laurence stood close beside her, eyeing the ghostly figure that was the Shadow Lord with immense anxiety...  and just as Aphmau took his Castor's hand and began creeping carefully with the trio to the door.

The Shadow Lord's eyes flew open and it swung viciously in their direction- that thing barely grazed Lady Aphmau’s armor but instantly it dented it - concaving the diamond like it wool she was wearing.

Laurence stood by her side in an instant and swung his sword wildly at seemingly nothing.

“Come this way! I'll form a barrier!” Caster shouted and delicately shoving Aphmau he pushed her forward and followed suite.

Lady Aphmau barely got her footing when the wall began to shake and rattle with that ghoul pounding on it from the other side. Laurence’s eyes widened as cracks formed within seconds, instantly getting into his defensive position.

Laurence shouted: “Lady Aphmau, this isn't going well.. you. Castor and Cadenza need to go! Now! I’ll hold him off! Get Caster and yourself out of here!”

“What?!” Lady Aphmau shouted back. “No! I can’t leave you behind—“

“I’ll be alright! Just go!” He demanded and when stone hit the wall just behind him, scratching his cheek he was met with relief when Caster grabbed Aphmau’s wrist and the two sprinted down the steps. Laurence turned his attention back to the wall crumbling before him, getting his sword and shield tightly.

His whole frame shook with fear and yet he held steady.
The cold dread of eyes he eyes on him made him shuddered, and yet he was left here alone… he thought of Sasha.

Then the wall finally shattered. Crimson rocks and brick flew on either side of him as he blocked his face with his shield.
Then a second later he was grabbed by his biceps and slammed against the wall. He hit his head and his voice grew darker and fuzzy as he cried out.
When he opened his eyes for the last time he saw the beady violet eyes of the shadow lord boring into him.
And then everything went dark.

. . .  When Garroth was told by his Lord that Laurence had stayed behind to hold off a Shadow King to protect her... his perspective of the man warped entirely. 

He had always respected Laurence's duty as a guard and his willingness to protect his village and others - but this was an entire new level of devotion. Laurence was a man of honor, a true noble Guard. And to be told they couldn't go back for him... filled him with grief. 

Would he truly not hear his voice again? See those emerald eyes bore into him like they could see into his very soul? Were the people he came across truly such rare gems that criminals stole away from him? 

Garroth wasn't sure if he'd be filled with similar anguish or more if it had been Laurence to come back and not Aphmau. At least, he cannot be mad at his Lord, he knew she tried her best to save him - he knew deep down she wasn't the kind of person to let her guards die for her, after all she traveled to Brightport to save his own life... Would he bear anger towards Laurence if he had come back without Aphmau?

 Surely he would. 

And yet he would grieve with the man - as foolish as Laurence was with his love - he could tell the man cared about her. It's why he's not standing beside his Lord today, right now. So, here he was, back in the mines, but for a different reason. Not because he was too cowardly to face the villagers or his Lord, but because now he was hunting for a way to bring Laurence back. 

"Garroth."

 The guard turned instantly, recognizing the voice of his wyvern anywhere. "Raven," He spoke fondly, a hidden smile melting onto his face. "What news do you bring?"

 "I have felt Laurence's wyvern speaking with your Lord Aphmau, the Wyvern; Ungrth.” The way Raven’s eyes slit into anger tells Garroth that the name must leave a fowl taste in his mouth. “He has told her of Laurence's current state in the Nether realm." 

Garroth felt a pit suddenly form in his stomach, bad news forming in his gut. "... And what is his status?"

 "He is undergoing a transformation," Garroth paled. "A corruption. He will survive... but his humanity is lost. You must not return to the nether, for he will kill Lord Aphmau, the last Lord he has died protecting in order to earn his ranks in the Shadow King's empire..."

 Garroth felt his knees go weak but he stood tall and strong. "I see... and what of his Wyvern?"

 "He too will soon be corrupted, for he is soul-bound with that human." 

With a heavy heart, and a heavier thud, Garroth dropped his pickaxe into the stone of the cave. "I must ensemble what guards we can in Brightport, Meteli, and Scaleswind." Garroth spoke up immediately, an ache growing in his chest once again as he kept losing those he trusts. "The Guard oath must be altered." Raven shot him an incredulous look, so he elaborated. "The rules will not change for Laurence, but rather because of him. He would want it to be this way."
Despite nothing close to nothing about Laurence... As he expected many knew very little about that casanova, he knew as a Guard Laurence would put his name on that list as well. "There will be a new rule for corruption in order to protect our Lords from this upcoming evil." He held out his chainmail covered arm and Raven rested on it. "My friend, here is what you must tell them..." 

Chapter Text

When Garroth's helmet returns fully repaired and as shiny as the night he stole it, he put it on without a second thought and made his presence known again throughout the village. 

Everyone had greeted him as they normally would like he hadn't failed them so horrendously, but Garroth shakes off the thought as he approaches Lord Aphmau's house and quickly checks up on Levin. 

"Ah, Garroth." Zoey greets, standing up from her spot on the floor. Garroth froze at the sight of the child.

"Levin... he..."

"I know!" Zoey excitedly hushed, going to stand by Garroth's side as the two beholden the boy. "He got so big so fast..." 

Garroth smiled from under his armor. "He truly did..." Garroth knelt down. "Hello Levin," He spoke as the boy leaned forward to grab Garroth's hand with both of his own - like he was throwing himself into a hug - before he nearly fell forward. Garroth had caught the child by his armpits and set him back upright, with a not-so quiet chuckle.

"He really likes you." Zoey mused. 

"He reminds me of my baby brother." Garroth whispered without much thought. 

"You have siblings?" Zoey tried not to sound too surprised nor interested but Garroth quickly frowned, holding Levin's face for a moment before rising to his feet. 

"Yes, I have a brother." 

"Your baby brother." Zoey teased but Garroth shook his head. Zane was not his baby brother. But to speak of Vlad to anyone would cause a pain that is un-needed when Levin here is providing so much hope and joy.

"No, definitely not a baby anymore." Garroth tried to laugh but shook his head. "I am ever so grateful your magicks managed to protect you and Levin from Zenix."

Zoey's smile stretched into a thin frown. "You know Zenix attacking Phoenix Drop was not your fault." She put a gentle hand on his shoulder he couldn't be btoher to accept the comfort she was trying to provide though.

"Thank you, Zoey. I will be on my way now..." Garroth stopped at the door as he turned to leave. "Goodbye Levin." 

. . .  Days have gone by, with Logan's illness being brought to this attention, they have been down to three guards. Himself, Brian, and Dale.

There was a severe guard shortage and the idea of recruiting more from other villages or even within seemed out of the question at a time like this. Lord Aphmau was hardly every in the village up until very recently by preparing for the wedding and taking care of Levin.

Today his Lord was planning on doing more to clean up their village, mine for materials, all with her son by her side in attempts to have him practice his crawling and socialize more. 

Guards weren't her top priority at this very moment and Garroth hated himself for loathing that - it wasn't that they needed to be a powerhouse like his old home O'Khasis or the city of Scaleswind - but it would be nice to trust someone else for once so he could rest.

Not that he trusted many people these days. 

After what happened to Zenix...  After what happened to Laurence. 

Garroth had entertained the thought to himself when he first met Laurence if he would want to become Lord Aphmau's personal guard as well - but quickly subsided it when he had made it clear his home was Meteli and his dedication was to his people.

Laurence was... a good man. A very brave and good man. 

And now he was lost to the Nether. 

Point is, it would be nice to have more guard. Dale and Brian have their own homes to return to and protect at the end of the day, and where does Garroth sleep? Sometimes, most days, by the door of Levin's room or barely keeping conscious outside of Lord Aphmau's home.

Ever since she arrived, he had gotten very skilled at sleeping while standing up... and soon not sleeping at all.  Since Zenix attacked, he had been awake for roughly two days now. He had slept in the mines at one point, but once his helm was back he refused to shut his eyes. 

When he had heard the commotion in the words with Aphmau and Brian...  to think someone like Laurence would target Lord Aphmau’s child. Filled him with undefinable rage and betrayal. Though Lord Aphmau is not his, nor is her son, but how and why did he think to go after the boy first?
If it is true, and Laurence must murder Lord Aphmau in order to gain immortality, then if he has any honor left in his body he will leave that boy out of it.

“Dammit!” Garroth shouted into the empty woods. “Laurence!” He called out. “If you are still here, you will leave that boy alone! If it is him and Lord Aphmau you desire - you will have to kill me first!” 

But his shouts fell upon deaf ears. Garroth turned wildly in every direction like that man would jump to ambush him… but if Laurence was here he is long gone now. 

With careful steps of his armor, he returned to his post outside of Aphmau’s house.

. . .  They should really employ more female guards in Phoenix Drop, is one of the many thoughts coming to Garroth’s head as Lord Aphmau walks away with Donna.

. . .  Days were blending together with worry, lack of sleep, and some longing. 

Garroth worried about Zenix and Logan, feared for Laurence, and how desperately he wish he could be in multiple places at once.

The plaza, the Lord's house, Levin's room, had become the grounds of his patrol recently and it was killing him. 

Not that he would ever confess this to another living soul aloud. Garroth wondered though... if htis was how the Guards of O'Khasis sometimes felt?
Or was he truly that much of a failure that the life of a Guard was becoming something exhausting?

No.

He just needed a moment's rest to regather himself his thoughts, and he will be back to confidently protecting his loved ones in no time. 

Upon his daily patrol however, he saw it. A tall and mighty stone tower that stretched high enough to behold a perfect sight on both the Plaza and Lord's house.

Garroth entered timidly and found a spot where some swords and shields were already hung upon the wall, as he traveled further up the staircase there were jail cells and chests for belongings, and then finally reached the top.

Though it was the same Phoenix Drop from below, it felt as though the air was different up here. He took a deep breath in through his nose out his through his mouth.
He was tempted to remove his helmet up here.

Not long after he made his way to the mid level balcony to gauge more of the view, Lord Aphmau stood beside him suddenly, she was grinning ear to ear giddy for his reaction; "What do you think?"

"Lord Aphmau, you... you didn't have to do this for me. It is too much..."

"I did!" She emphasized those words, trying to get them through his thick skull. "Garroth, you deserve this." 

"... Thank you." He was breathless. "No one has done anything for me, I... I do not know what to say, I-"

"Think nothing of it, Garroth."

"You mean the- a lot to me, Lord Aphmau. Know that. I'll make sure this village is absolutely protected." He swore to her before she took her leave, other matters to attend to surely.

But there was more to it, more than she could have ever known. Garroth made his way into one of the many rooms on the second level where Aphmau had set up a personal guard's quarters with beds and chests to hold their belongings. He sat down on the bed and couldn't help himself but to finally shut his eyes. 

. . .  Lord Aphmau inquires why they haven’t gone to rescue Laurence is another grey hair for Garroth.
Sure, it was his fault this time, because he asked if Lord Aphmau had mentioned something to Lady Cadenza… but he is firm on his decision, as he is positive Laurence is too. 

Laurence is… he was the Head Guard of Meteli. Choosing to risk his life for Lord Aphmau was something he will never be able to thank him enough for, and he surely confidently knew what he was doing and made his choice.

Not only is Garroth trying to protect his Lord from the dangers of a corrupted Shadow Knight, but he is sure if Laurence is… if… Laurence probably wouldn’t want them to come back for him anyhow. Garroth would not want his sacrifice to be in vain either. 

And yet… he would miss Lord Aphmau, Dale, Brian, Zoey, Levin…his people so terribly so.

If Laurence really is still himself in there, would he be having these feelings as well? These cruel aching emotions overcoming Garroth. And he’s not even the one in the Nether.

Is Laurence suffering? Is he even still himself?

No. He shook his head, Raven had indirectly told him to forget, and he made the changes for the rest of the Village Guards. If anything like this were to happen, they should take their own lives… would Laurence do this if he knew? Would he still be a guard if he was still here?

. . .    Garroth had left Aphmau’s home, standing at attention all night protecting Levin while also reminiscing on the past… he was getting tired of disappointment. Zenix… Laurence… How many more good men will be taken from him?
And would Levin be next?

He was to switch places with Dale in the morning, Garroth exchanged a few words and tried to sound like he was smiling before he left.

But when he saw the man standing outside the Lord Aphmau’s house– to say Garroth was feeling ill was an understatement.

He never expected to see his face ever again, and yet here he was… Zane was…

“What are you doing here?!” He couldn’t help himself.
The boy… Zane turned around to address him. The way his arms were neatly folded behind his back fell and with his cold pale blue eye bored into Garroth’s helm. Luckily Zane was never one to see the bigger picture, nor could he really hear the boom of his voice under his armor.

That didn’t stop those bastard guards of his to point their swords at Garroth threateningly.

“Who are you to speak to the High Priest of O'Khasis?!”

“Show some respect for our High Priest!”

Zane had that glint of entertainment in his eye instead of his usual wrath, had this been any other village he would’ve sicked these guards on Garroth and tore him to pieces.

But instead…

“Intriguing. The way you speak… Identify yourself, guard.” His voice lowered at the end of his sentence, trying to be intimidating.

Garroth bit his tongue.

On the shore was his Lord Aphmau properly docking the wedding boat for Donna and Logan. It couldn’t be helped, if he refused to share his name Lord Aphmau would let it slip and it would just be more troublesome to try and explain why he kept it a secret. 

It’s fine. Garroth tried to reassure himself. It will be fine. This is only for today… and if there should be another wedding in Phoenix Drop they will find a new priest.

“My apologies.” Garroth tried to make his voice sound… lower. “I am Garroth, the Head Guard of Phoenix Drop, as well as M’Lord’s personal guard.”

Zane eyed him suspiciously, trying to break through his disguise. “Remove your helm.” He commanded but Garroth stood frozen. Before he could react, Lord Aphmau thankfully approached in record time. Garroth felt his shoulders slack in relief.

As usual though, Zane instantly turned the situation into no big issue, a minor altercations between Guards might be believable elsewhere, but Lord Aphmau knows him. Surely she can see through this ruse.

“... By the way,” Zane suddenly spoke up. “Guards are required to dress formally for weddings- you understand?” Garroth found himself adjusting his grip on his weapon, though still holstered he waived the pros and cons of unsheathing it for the sake of striking down Zane where he stood for speaking to his La– his Lord in such a way. 

If Laurence were here, he wouldn’t stand for it either.  

“This is due to the fact that weddings often guarded by Guards in uniform are considered heavily “rich” weddings, and that often attracts thieves.” He was spitting venom right out his tongue! If Garroth could just slice it off for him– “I highly suggest you make Garroth here dress for the occasion.” Zane gestured to Garroth lazily, not even sparing him a second glance.

But Garroth knew his brother anywhere.

It was a plan. He was about to force Garroth to reveal himself, reveal his identity and most likely force him on a boat back home, back to the kingdom… where Garroth would have to… no. No, he wouldn’t.

“I’m sorry, but that’s his choice.” Lord Aphmau’s words were sweet yet firm and Garroth was brought back to the present, back to the reminder that his Lord truly did know him… truly did care for him, was willing to defend his honor as much as he was her’s…

“His choice?” Zane repeated incredulously. “I’m sorry but are you not the Lord of Phoenix Drop? You can tell him to do as you need and he will abide by your rule.” Zane spoke it like it was fact.

And it was.

It was true.

Lord Aphmau could force him right now to drop his weapons and reveal his face to the world. She could’ve done that the day his helmet broke.

But she didn’t. And she wouldn’t. For his Lord is too beautiful, too loving, too… she wouldn’t do that to anyone. Maybe not even her worst enemy.

“I’m sorry your Grace,” Lord Aphmau spoke again, somehow kinder. “But I will not force him.” Then Lord Aphmau shot him a brief glance, acknowledging him as a part of the conversation, as a part of this space and her world. Instead of how Zane would talk of him like Garroth wasn’t even present, Lord Aphmau took good to remind Garroth he was here. He was a human being like the rest of them…  

“Hm.” Zane doesn’t like to be told no, unfortunately. “Since my warning did not endure you to budge, I am forced to be blunt.” Zane looked at Garroth head-on now. Threatening him too. “Make him wear formal wear or I refuse to perform Donna’s ceremony. Are we clear?” 

“Wait, what?!” His Lord couldn’t help but raise her voice it seems. If only she could see into his eyes, Garroth could plead with her; do not react. It is what he wants. He wants a reaction from you, he wants to bend you until you break into his rule, he wants to control you. He wants to control everyone…

But with Zane looking at him head on, there’s no reason for Lord Aphmau not to believe this is a personal matter, perhaps there is room for–

“You see I am the High Priest of O’Khasis… a very prominent place and very much admired throughout the world. If I am purposefully put into any danger… well… then let’s just say the relations of O’Khasis and Phoenix Drop might suffer.”

That bastard! Garroth gripped his right hand, lowering his shield to force himself not to unsheathe his weapon upon that… that… his brother is a devil’s spawn disguised as a holy man!

Garroth turned his head to his Lord who was staring back, a million thoughts clearly running behind her eyes and yet her face was composed and tight.

He would be a horrible guard if he begged his Lord to send Zane on his way… the wedding is today and to find a priest at this hour of daylight would prove to be a fruitless endeavor, as surely the second Zane is kicked off their land he would spread his rule far and wide that no holy person should assist Phoenix Drop in any religious need or matter.

His Lord had seemed to come to a decision. “I understand, your Grace.”

“Good.” Zane couldn’t hide the way his eyes smile with his evil grin under his face covering; “You are a reasonable Lord, I can tell, though it is obvious you care for your guards…” He briefly eyed the two of them. Lord Aphmau and Garroth. “... That is a trait I can admire. I apologize, but when it comes to politics you must understand how these things work. Again, I apologize.” But he will never say he is sorry. “I look forward to seeing you at the wedding.” 

Zane shouted to command his guards and they stiffly walked away behind him. Like zombies.

After a moment, Lord Aphmau approached him with a new gentle look in her eyes. 

“Well, it seems our guests are rather stubborn when it comes to understanding our formalities.” Garroth muttered, somewhat disgruntled.

Despite his volume, his Lord still heard him.

“It’s okay, Garroth.” She assured. “They’ll be gone after the wedding.”

“Aphmau,” Garroth began, breathing in shakily. “I understand the importance of a High Priest such as Zane, but to have them come to a ceremony of a village they’ve never, probably, even heard of… it is just insane!” 

“Donna’s mother requested them here… apparently they “owe her.” 

Garroth turned his head in the direction where his brother had walked away. “... I see… In that case, if it’s for Donna, I can deal with them for a few days.”

He will just stay very very very far away from him… simple. 

“Garroth…” Lord Aphmau began, sounding nervous. Garroth had a feeling he knew what was coming next. “We need to talk.” 

“About?” He inquired anyway.

“It is about your uniform…and Zane’s demand for a formal outfit…”

Despite having heard the conversation taking place in front of him, and Lord Aphmau making sure he was aware of it, Garroth still foolishly believed Lord Aphmau might have made an exception. At least for him.

But the look in her eyes, the sound of her voice… and then her inquiry. “... Aphmau, I refuse.” 

She looked surprised at the sudden lack of formalities and Garroth winced. “Garroth… that’s an order.” 

It was his turn to be stunned now. “Zane is wearing a mask! Is that not suspicious of a high priest?” With his brother out of ear-shot he was finally able to lose his composure, at least in front of his Lord.

“Garroth, you heard him, didn’t you? He won't perform the ceremony for Donna if you do not.” She was using her ‘in command’ voice. Which was a fancy term Garroth used for when his Lord was being reasonable and considering the concern of his citizens over her friends.

But he couldn’t bring himself to comply.

She didn’t know… she couldn’t know. He wouldn’t. This woman who had come in and transformed the village and changed his life all in a single night. She couldn’t understand what could happen to Garroth if he did this. If he looked his brother in the eye. 

“... Then…” Garroth began but stopped himself. Lord Aphmau arched her brow, her body tense. “Then you… you can find a new Guard. I refuse to show my face.”

Her expression was unmasked now, unprofessional, and her brown eyes widened in a new form of betrayal Garroth had felt in his soul… No.  “No. No, I…. I could never leave you.” He confessed but looked down at the same. “I- I’m sorry… I’m sorry… I just… I don’t know what came over me.” Garroth clutched at the fabric on his chainmail.

Despite running away from his kingdom he still bore the cross of O’Khasis on his chest like a medal.

Or rather, like a reminder for the life he left behind. 

Garroth looked up at the new life that greeted him: “Again, showing my face… I… Would…  wouldn’t that take away from Donna’s wedding, I mean?” 

Lord Aphmau’s expression softened, she no longer looked hurt but was filled with conflict and understanding: “Garroth, take the day off.”

He felt a pit open up in his stomach, the same pit where he kept his anxieties over the village, over his Lord, over Laurence… “You mean, you’re relieving me of my duties for the day?”

“Yes, I know how much this means to you.” She gestured towards his helmet, smiling sadly.

Garroth however, felt relief flood his entire nervous system. “Thank you, Lord Aphmau. This means more than you know. I’ll keep watch from outside the village, hidden in a place where no one can see my uniform.” He explained. “Thank you… I hope the wedding is beautiful.”

The first wedding ever held in Phoenix Drop… Garroth tried not to feel sorrow that will be missing it.

It will be fine. He’ll keep reassuring himself of that as Garroth walks past the docks, pointedly not looking at it as he makes his way down the beautifully built streets of Phoenix Drop. 

He passed by Dale’s house and made a move towards the old Lord’s house - that is typically where the most crime seems to stem from, and from there he will patrol the border of Phoenix Drop.

… As Garroth made his rounds he considered more and more that they should fence off some of their land. Not as a means to keep anyone out, even if the population is overwhelmingly increasing with very few guards other than himself, Brian, and Dale… it’s fine. He can manage this, he can protect the Village and his Lord. 

But Garroth stopped in his tracks at the sight of Logan, he lowered his shield a bit as he approached the man. 

“Logan?” Garroth inquired, looking around. “What are you doing on the edge of the village? Is everything alright?” 

Logan seemed unstilted by Garroth’s presence despite the Guard believing his footsteps weren’t that heavy bounding through the wild.

“Am I… Am I good enough?” 

Garroth blinked. “I - I beg your pardon?”

“For Donna, I mean.” He groaned in irritation, running a trembling hand through his hair. Garroth eyed the suit he was already in. His pants were covered in some grass blades and leaves… and fur, but Garroth chose not to address it. 

“Logan,” He spoke carefully. “Are you… having doubts about your wedding?”

“I just… I just want to do everything in my power to make Donna happy, you know? I… I’ve never been in love before, I’ve never even considered it.” 

Garroth, despite himself, took a seat beside Logan. “Logan, listen carefully,” Logan turned to face him. “That woman is absolutely head over heels for you.” Garroth recalled the story; “When you were undergoing your transformation she went crazy with worry if you were safe, if you were… if you still loved her, since you were missing she wasn’t sure if you left her behind…” He bent the truth a bit, he didn’t need to know Donna thought he was disloyal. “The day you proposed to her was the happiest I’ve seen her since she arrived at Phoenix Drop.”

Logan nodded carefully, listening to Garroth’s words of wisdom.

“If you are concerned… with making her happy… do not worry, for you have done that and much more. I can only imagine marrying her today will solidify the ever growing joy she experiences when she looks at you.”

Logan smiled, his fangs peaking through his teeth. “Thank you, Garroth… you’re actually a pretty smart guy.”

He furrowed his brows beneath his helmet. “What do you mean by that–”

“Welp.” Logan stood up, brushing off his pants quickly. “Time to get married.” He looked down at Garroth who hadn’t gotten up yet. “You coming?”

“... I will meet you there, Logan. I just need to finish patrolling.” 

“Alright.” Logan nodded curtly, before sprinting off.

… Garroth could hear the music coming from the plaza as he was on the other side of the Village. He had caught brief glances of the ceremony but did not linger nor approach in order to keep the ceremony going and to stop his younger brother from ruining this lovely evening.

Garroth approached Lord Aphmau’s house, though no one would be home, for even little Levin was dressed up for such an occasion. 

The Guard marched the streets of Phoenix Drop and could no longer prevent his disappointment and loneliness from consuming him.

It was here and now, he thought of Laurence. 

If the guard was still here, would he have joined Garroth on his patrol? Or would he be out there dancing with Lord Aphmau with the intent to woo her? 

Or what if he refused to go without Garroth, and instead granted the Head Guard some courage to just let himself out there and have a good time for once?Would Garroth have told him about Zane? Would he have understood the way he was positive Lord Aphmau might have? 

Just how much would have changed with these preparations if Laurence arrived from Meteli to party with the villagers? 

All of these thoughts derailed him to the doorstep of Candenza’s house as the sun began to set. He hadn’t expected her to be inside and yet, “Garroth!” She spoke fondly, excitedly. “I was so hoping you’d stop by on your patrol.”

“I uh… yes.”

“Care to try on the suit I made for you?” 

Garroth looked around, the streets were empty. Just him… everyone else was enjoying the beautiful wedding.

Except for Cadenza.

“I… yes… were you… waiting for me? This whole time?”

“No.” Cadenza chuckled, shaking her head. “I just happened to stop by and grab a needle and thread for my own dress, part of you showing up was my own intuition. Come on in.” Cadenza stepped aside for Garroth to enter. And he did so.

“This way.” Cadenza led him into her basement and pulled out a dark suit with a blue tie and a red boutonniere. “Give it a try! I’ll be upstairs.”

She handed the suit to him and he took it carefully, waiting for the lady to disappear up her staircase, Garroth took off his helmet, then his symbol of O’Khasis, and slowly his chainmail as he began dressing into the suit.

When he had just finished buttoning up the tailored coat, and adjusting the flower he heard Cadenza speak lowly; “Oh Gods...” 

Surprised by her presence, Garroth spun around and felt his face grow bright red. “Wh… what is it?” He felt his face, besides the beard everything felt fine. “Is it… should I…?” 

“Why do you keep that helmet on?” Cadenza teased. “You’re just as handsome as I imagined you to be.”

Garroth shook his head at the flattery. “Oh.. I… No… I…”

Cadenza laughed again, “Well. Do not let me keep you, I will stitch up my own dress and meet you back at the party.” Garroth nodded stiffly, turning to gaze back at his armor, he took it with him, just to drop off at the Guard’s tower the Lord had built for him. 

With the stiff steps of a soldier, he found himself on the staircase of the plaza. His eyes landed on Zane first who had his back turned to him and was preoccupied, charming up another one of their residents…. Kiki. Hopefully that was nothing.

Garroth knew it would lead to nothing, Zane’s heart is too small to actually love and care for someone. He learned that firsthand about his brother long ago.

Then, finally, his eyes landed on Lord Aphmau. He had yet to see her in the dress Cadenza made for her and it stole his breath away. It swayed as she walked and even during times of celebration she was still tending to her people, walking around and inquiring about how they were doing surely. Garroth took slow cautious steps down the stairs, no longer needing to try and be quiet, for his armored boots were off as well.

He felt somewhat naked, he should have at least kept his weapons on him, or his boots, or… some chainmail.

He scratched nervously at his beard, no one seemed to notice him thankfully. 

“Well look who decides to join us!”

Nevermind, Lord Aphmau made a b-line for him and Garroth was frozen. Lord Aphmau had seen his face before but for some reason, under these circumstances, it felt different… 

“Garroth!” She greeted with a smile that reminded him of Laurence, for some reason.

“I am sorry about what happened earlier. There are some… things about myself that I’m just not ready to deal with… myself… if that makes sense.” He felt like he was babbling.

“Forget about it, let’s dance!” She held out her hand and once again he was flooded with a weird feeling that she was acting too much like Laurence. Maybe it was the environment, it encourages people to be forward with their feelings… 

“Heh,” He laughed anyway. “Shouldn’t I be asking you that? Let’s try this again.” He cleared his throat and stood up straighter, Lord Aphmau mused at his antics as he held out his hand, bowing slightly as he did so. “Lady Aphmau, may I have this dance?” 

“Yes.” Aphmau grinned and despite himself;

“Heh! Alright, let’s go!” And she was the one to drag him to the center of the plaza as the music reigned on. 

He was cautious and modest with resting his hand on her hip and with years of ballroom lessons under his belt was successful at leading them along in this dance, he was even polite as to not bring up the time his Lord stepped on his foot, twice. 

He had caught the attention of the other villagers at this rate, Molly and Donna whistling while Dale and Logan had complimented his company. He was too busy dancing with this beautiful woman all night to pay any mind that his younger brother had been watching him this whole time.

It wasn’t until later, when they were waving off Donna and Logan, who had departed in their wedding boat, did the night slowly catch up to Garroth. He huffed out a sigh, happily. 

Lord Aphmau was standing at the altar lowering her hand and rubbing it tiredly as she turned to face Garroth. “You’re still here.” She tilted her head, it wasn’t a rude accusation but more of a curious tone on the tip of her tongue. 

“It was a very nice wedding you threw…” He began. “You should know, it was the first wedding Phoenix Drop has had.”

“Truly?” She seemed aghast. “Well… I’m glad this one was the first.” She looked off into the vast ocean before them again.

Garroth blames the night air. Like he had said earlier, it must’ve been the environment, the partying, the couples… “Hm, I wonder… Hey, Lord Aphmau, do you… think that we–” 

When she took to look at him again, “Wait? Zane?” She asked aloud.

Garroth was cut off by a voice that made his blood run cold. 

“At last… I knew there was something about you…” He tilted his head menacingly. “Long time no see, big brother…” 

“Brother?” Lord Aphmau looked pointedly, accusingly at Garroth. “So-” She held her hands up, losing all professionalism she had faked when it came to conversing with Zane. “Let me get this straight, you actually have a little brother Garroth?” She looked between the two, missing how Garroth’s eyes were huge and his body rigid. “It’s.. it’s not a huge deal, or anything… but I would have liked to have known you had family.”

Unfortunately, Lord Aphmau approached Zane first, with a new friendlier tone of voice. Garroth feared this – feared she would see this as a good thing. 

“What? Shocked to know Garroth has family?” Zane however, dropped all kindness and formalities he was pretending to hold throughout the night. 

“No… I just… I guess I wasn’t expecting it to be you of all people.” 

“Well… Lady Aphmau, let me give you some history on your guard you claim to know so well.”

“Zane, please–” Garroth tried but Zane kept going.

“Garroth is the first born to the Lord of O’Khasis, I am the lowly second born - Yes. I get the burden of not inheriting the Lordship from our father, among other things, and then… we had a younger brother… but…” To Garroth’s surprise, Zane’s expression softened into something almost mimicking mourning… before his walls were put up again. “A shame to say… he is no longer with us.” He met Garroth’s gaze for that and Garroth shrunk in on himself.

His dearest brother, Vlad…

“Wait…” Lord Aphmau turned to stare at Garroth. “He’s a lord?!”

“To be Lord, to be exact. He’s not Lord yet as our father has not yet passed, Gods forfend.” Zane moved his hands fluidly, a personal salute to the Gods above. Garroth couldn’t help but wrinkle his nose in distaste. “However, two years ago Garroth was set to inherit the position of Lord. He had been training as a guard for some time to protect father, even though it was against father’s wishes. Then, a treaty was signed between the city of Scaleswind and O’Khasis… for we were about to go to war. Thankfully father had set up an arranged marriage between the first borns of our estates.” 

Garroth couldn’t move. God, how he wanted to move, how he wanted to run. If he could just move his mouth, use his voice and silence this once and for all and run away… 

“Wait wait!” Lord Aphmau looked at Garroth with something of surprise and maybe a hint of disappointment… though that could be in Garroth’s mind: “Garroth has a fiancé?!” 

“He had a fiancé.” Zane corrected matter-of-factly. “He backed out because he claimed he didn’t… “Love” her and fled. Father disowned him.” Zane looked pointedly at his elder brother, a cockiness to his tone and gaze. There was something he was leaving out – how Father had most likely refused Zane to take Lordship and instead the next best thing was High Priest. 

Everyone knows if the Lord should fall with no heir, everyone flocks to the second in command.
Which would be Zane’s position. 

That snide bastard.

“I’ll give you two times to talk now… but Lady Aphmau, approach me tomorrow morning if you wish to know more about your… “Guard.” 

With that, Zane lowered his hood of his formal wear for the wedding and walked away.

Lord Aphmau swung around to face him, her dress turning with her movements and Garroth found himself not loving the sight as much as he did mere hours ago. 

“So you’ve been hiding this whole time?”

“... Yes… But please, my Lord, I never meant to deceive you–”

“Why didn’t you tell me anything?”

“I am not suited to lead others.” Garroth spoke loudly but emotionally. “I’m suited to protect those who can better the happiness of people around them.” He briefly gestured towards Aphmau. “I… I was born to become a Lord, I was not given the choice. I know I am not a natural-born leader, and I am perfectly content with that. I do what I am good at.” 

“What… about your fiancé?”

Garroth could almost laugh, hysterically of course. “My fiancé?! We never even met! My father wanted me to martyr someone I do not even know!” He scoffed, turning his body to gesture to the spot where Zane was just standing. “Now he sends Zane to do his dirty work and fetch me…” As he said it aloud though, something sparked in his mind that set it ablaze. “Wa… wait… how did Zane… how did Zane know I was here? He couldn’t… he couldn’t have come just for Donna’s mother…  there is no way… she’s not even–”

“What are you going to do, Garroth?” 

“I… I do not know. I need some time to think about this.” 

Lord Aphmau suddenly grabbed his hand. “Just ignore Zane and don’t go.” 

“I wish it was that simple… you do not understand, Lord Aphmau. If I do not confront my father… he’ll do something.. Terrible, I fear. The city of O’Khasis claims to be an entity that prevents Monarchs from coming to power but that’s a boat of lies.” He hisses. “O’Khasis runs completely dictated by my Father and has more military power than anything you’ve ever seen.”

Garroth was almost relieved. It was so good to be finally explaining this to her, and getting this off his chest… and yet… 

“Maybe… maybe you should go into hiding again.”

Those words cut deeper than Lord Aphmau must’ve realized, for she seemed surprised that Garroth ripped his hand away and didn’t face her.

Out of everyone who could have suggested this… why his Lord? Why did… perhaps she did not know the weight of those words, much less what they suggested.

To think Aphmau wants him gone is…  “No.” He shook his head. “No, I’m sure… I’m sure Zane knows that I care for this village and its people… he will do something terrible.”

Just as terrible as his father. 

“But he’s a High Priest? What could he possibly do?”

“He wouldn’t… he’s just a threatening messenger boy… who happens to study magic… but–” Garroth groaned in irritation. “How could he… and all this… this is all just horrible timing! Absolutely horrible!”

“Garroth, calm down.” 

“No, you don’t understand!” Garroth spun back to face her again, his face now expressing the pain he felt deep inside. “Being forced to marry someone you don’t even love… I… I just… she’s not the one I–” 

“Just talk to Zane, Garroth… I think you’re overreacting.”

Garroth took a sharp deep breath through his nostrils, trying to control his anger in front of his Lord. Though that was proving difficult in this moment as she clearly chose not to see reason– “You don’t know my family. They’re not as kind as I make them out to seem.” He sighed. “I need some time to think, Lord Aphmau. Please… I don’t want to make any decisions that would hurt you– err– this… village. Of course. Now… please… give me some time.” With that, Garroth walked away, to his guard tower.

Leaving his Lord standing at the altar. 

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

... Garroth really tried not to eavesdrop but it was near impossible. With how close they were, nearly nose to nose so Laurence could hear her - possibly even smell her. At some point his pupils kept shifting in Garroth’s direction and he was sure Laurence was aware of his presence.

It grew awkward though, when Laurence confessed his love to Lord Aphmau. Rather passionately at that. 

Lord Aphmau carefully set Laurence’s hand down against the wool mattress before quietly approaching him. She wore an uneasy look on her face with a pale blush coating her cheeks. 

A love confession that bold would fluster anybody, but even so.

“I heard what Laurence told you.” 

Suddenly Lord Aphmau smirked at him, her voice low and teasing: “What? Upset he beat you to the punch?”

“Wh- what?!” Garroth forgot to mind his volume. “Don’t be ridiculous! Th- That’s not even a thought that has cr- crossed my mind!” He was ever so thankful for his helmet once more. If Lord Aphmau saw the crimson painted across his face she surely would be made aware it had definitely crossed his mind.

“Calm down, I was just joking.”

“Oh, as was I! Hah..hah..heh heh… I’ve been working on my jokes!” Garroth cleared his throat. “Ahem, anyway… I fear we need to discuss my younger brother, Zane.”

“Actually,” Lord Aphmau bit her lip and looked to the side. Garroth wasn’t sure if he should prepare himself for the worst or– “He uh… he said you had three days to decide if you would come with him or… he… he threatened to burn down Dale’s house… he threatened Dale and Molly’s daughter– he threatened Alexis… he…”

“He…” Garroth was breathless, his sword loosening in his hand. “Zane…”

“Garroth…?” Lord Aphmau reached her hand out but he shied away from her.

“He threatened Alexis…? A… a baby…?”

“... Yes.”

And in an instant, Garroth was filled with stomach churning nausea. . “... He would stoop that low, he would do this… Zane… Zane hides under the protection of the Faith of Lady Irene, he’s… I’m going to fall ill…” 

“What are we going to do?” Aphmau whispered, minding her company.

“What did you say…? He’s leaving in three days…?” Garroth looked to the floor, lowering his head in shame and yet submission. The words that left his mouth were words he never thought he’d say. “... I need to go with him.” 

“Isn’t there anything we can do?”

“I don’t know.” Garroth confessed, not daring to meet his Lord’s eyes. “We have three days to figure something out, Lord Aphmau. I really don’t want to be forced into… into marriage… I can’t see how that could be something I learn to live with… If you can think of anything, let me know. I will…” Garroth raised his head. “For now, I will keep an eye on Laurence, I owe him for what he has done. I think I just… need to sit down. I won’t let Alexis suffer because of me, I will not let this village suffer because of me. What… what could I possibly do…?” 

“Can’t we just make Zane leave?”

“We cannot do anything to Zane.” Garroth spoke firmly. “While we are free to act as our own village, trying to get rid of Zane is like declaring war on O’Khasis and Scaleswind. Do you know how fast they’d wipe out Phoenix Drop…? Let’s… let’s just leave it at that for now. Again, if you think of anything else… let me know. Please be safe in the meantime, I am not comfortable with Zane here.” 

… He wasn’t sure how long he had been guarding Laurence’s bed for but it was at the very least three hours before he heard the bed behind him creak and the man in the bed stir.

Garroth turned to face the man with a start and was surprised to have Laurence’s eyes on him. But he was silent, and staring. 

Garroth wasn’t sure if Laurence was awake and trying to decipher who was there or if he was sleeping with his eyes open. 

Eventually, their weird staring contest ended when Laurence tried to sit himself up, instantly Garroth rushed to his side. “Laurence!” He spoke loudly and the Guard stopped himself, his hand lifting blindly for Garroth - instantly he lowered his weapon and took Laurence’s hand in his own. 

Laurence’s hand was wrapped firmly around Garroth’s armored one and he laughed. “I had a feeling it was you.” 

Garroth felt a smile tug at his lips. “I am tasked with watching over you, how are you feeling? How was your rest?” 

Laurence smiled, his eyes searching for where Garroth’s face might be but they landed instead on the ceiling overhead. “I’m still sore, as you can imagine. But my… nap.. It was fine.” Laurence’s brows suddenly furrowed. “Is it just you down here?”

“Yes … it is just the two of us.”

“Good.” Laurence adjusted his head, then lifted his other hand, Garroth eyed his movements before Laurence’s right hand landed clumsily against Garroth’s helmet, moving around a bit before it rested on the side of it. “You’re still hiding your face, huh.” 

Garroth felt his cheeks go red as he lowered his shield to take Laurence’s other hand off of him. “Does… that disappoint you?”

“It’s invigorating, actually.”

Garroth scoffed out a laugh. “How so?!”

“Well it makes me feel  better about not being able to see your face… or anyone's face. I feel less.. left out.” 

Garroth nodded subtly to himself. “I… I see. Well, if it helps you then I have even more reason to keep it on.”

“Until I get my sight back.” Laurence said suddenly, sitting himself up more - Garroth holding his hands for balance as he was upright. “Then.. when I can see again, I want you to get rid of that stupid helmet.” 

Garroth was absolutely baffled. “... But… but I have other reasons for hiding–” 

“And I know it’s personal and everything but… you can’t keep hiding forever, Garroth.” Garroth sputtered his disapproval and inaccuracies but Laurence went on: “Trust me… That’s why I decided to tell Lady Aphmau of my feelings instead of keeping them a secret. Just in case… before something happened where I couldn’t.” 

Garroth took in his words and then took a deep breath. “I… your words of wisdom are appreciated… And noted.”

“Do we have a deal?” He let go of Garroth’s hand just to hold it out again for a shake. 

Garroth stared at Laurence’s hand as silence consumed the room. After weeks of Laurence being gone and suddenly being thrown back into their lives - this was the last conversation Garroth had expected to have with him when he came back.

In fact, Garroth had thought he’d have to kill Laurence should he return.

Instead of grabbing his sword, Garroth took Laurence’s hand. “Sure, Laurence.” 

Laurence grinned, the two lowered their hands but neither of them let go of the other. “I have another favor to ask of you, Garroth.”

“... Yes?” 

“I…” Laurence’s voice broke and he turned his head away to compose himself, Garroth watched intently. “I could not… I can’t recall the color of my eyes… or my hair… everything about how I look I… I don’t remember.” Laurence looked back at Garroth with those big grey eyes. “Garroth, can you tell me what I look like?” 

Garroth didn’t waste a second, for fear if he held his breath - if he hesitated - Laurence would dread the worst. “Your eyes are green.” He saw the Guard’s eyelids reel back in surprise, and acknowledgement. “Like the shiniest emeralds dug and washed from the mines. When you look into them you feel like you weren’t just being seen, but seen through. As if you had everyone figured out after just a look…” Garroth caught himself before he went on, feeling flustered. “And your hair…” Garroth stopped himself from reaching for it. “It is as long as it is orange. Competing with the most prominent sunsets and fruit off the tree, your bangs and strands frame your face - which is oval shaped and tanned by the sun and humanity.” 

Laurence’s hands were ripped from Garroth’s and in an instant the bed-ridden Guard threw himself into Garroth - wrapping his hands clumsily around Garroth’s large frame, he nearly missed as so Garroth took him by his triceps so he wouldn’t fall forward anymore. But even still, Laurence kept his arms wrapped firmly around Garroth’s and lowered his head against Garroth’s shoulder.

“Thank you.” He whispered. “Thank you, Garroth…”

Garroth kept his own hands loosely around Laurence’s body as the two remained in silence for an indiscernible amount of time before Laurence fell asleep once more, Garroth carefully put the man back against the pillow on the mattress. 

. . .  Garroth had explained to Laurence he would be back at nightfall, that he had urgent matters to attend to regarding a visitor.
Laurence hadn’t inquired too much about what was going on but Garroth was overwhelmed when Laurence had opened his eyes from his slumber.

“I’ll be waiting.” Laurence promised, his voice having a hint of how he used to flirt with Lady Aphmau. He wasn't sure why or where that came from. Garroth was even briefly taken aback, before taking his leave. 

Laurence stared at the ceiling with nothing but the scent of pine drifting away and some minor commotion up above. He was certain it sounded like some… construction? The window just beside his bed gave him some shadows in his vision of people passing by, but not much else.

It… It was fine, being like this. 

Because what mattered was that he was still in the overworld, rather than the Nether. If it was hot in here, it was Laurence’s imagination combined with the sun peering through the glass, instead of rock he had a real bed to rest on and it was soft.
The air was dusty but that was most likely because he was underground, somewhere beneath the upper level of Lady Aphmau’s home but not lost to the rock nor soil as company would be heard above and visits from Garroth and others were appreciated.

Yes, he will have to learn how to do things he thought were simple and required no real thought or concentration like walking and eating by himself.

And then there were his impending thoughts of how much training he would have to endure should he continue to be a Guard of Meteli…. Meteli…

His thoughts had nearly drowned out the sound of footsteps rushing down the stairs.
“Laurence!” A familiar voice shrieked with fear and horror.

“That voice…” Laurence’s eyes shifted to this right. “Cadenza, is that you?”

She was quick to nearly fall on top of him, her hands grabbing mindlessly at his chest before they found his hands and squeezed them. “Laurence! By the Gods, what happened to you?!”

“So, Castor finally made you human again… I’m glad.” He breathed and got the strong scent of roses. Definitely Cadenza.

Somewhere in the distance was Lavender, Lady Aphmau was present as well. 

“N- no. It was two magick users of Phoenix Drop, Zoey and Kawai~Chan. But that matters not, Laurence, what happened?” 

“I don’t want to discuss it, Cadenza. Please don’t ask.”

Despite reportedly not having any visible lingering scars, he heard when they removed his armor - with magick - that there was some burnt scar tissue across his legs and chest. He chose not to address how much it hurt when Cadenza tackled him. Though he was as healed as they could physically get, there were still the mental scars to address. 

“I… I understand.” She whispered, releasing one of his hands to brush idly at the hair shielding his face. “But please, at least let me help you. There must be a magicks user we can find… to get back your sight… and then…”

It was too much. It was too much for her to be doing all of this, he understands, he is her brother bu this is… “Cadenza, please… stop.” How he missed her so, how he missed hearing her voice and by Gods did he believe she looked as radiant as ever. But he couldn’t see her.

And the idea that there was someone who could… no. He wasn’t to get his hopes up over something that was impossible.

Regardless of what he promised Garroth, he did it purely to cheer his dear friend up. 

But to hear it repeated back to him made his stomach churn and ache. “I am so happy to hear you are here, and you are a human again, and that you’re safe… believe me, I truly am.” He tried to turn to face her, ignoring the pain it caused when he couldn’t see her. “But I have been through too much grief over losing my vision… right now, I just want to be happy and being in the care of Lord Aphmau is more than enough. So please, let me feel this happiness, and not focus on the bad in life…” 

“Laurence, I… I’m so sorry. You are right, I am so glad to hear you are safe too… Uhm, do you plan on returning to Meteli? Once you are… recovered?”

“I do not think it is safe for the Lord of Meteli, nor its people, should I return…”

He felt her pull away. “I… I don’t understand…?”

“You mean… Lord Aphmau didn’t… Could you please let me and Lord Aphmau have a moment?”

“Of course, anything for you Laurence.”

He heard Cadenza’s footsteps walk away and then ascend up the staircase of Lord Aphmau’s home.

He had changed addressing her from a Lady to Lord - mostly due to the rejection, out of respect for Garroth, and her warm care and hospitality. 

“Lord Aphamu… why didn’t you tell Cadenza about me becoming a Shadow Knight?”

He heard Aphmau take a sharp breath. “Garroth and I are trying to avoid a panic in the village.” 

“... I understand. It’s just.. You know Cadenza and I are both from Meteli, in fact, I’m surprised she’s the one who has come to visit me.” 

“Oh… Laurence, Cadenza actually lives in Phoenix Drop now.”

“She… she does?” He slowly grinned. “It doesn’t surprise me, in fact she has always been a free spirit.”

“Are you two close?” Lord Aphmau inquired. 

“Cadenza and I grew up together in Meteli, I consider her my little sister. We kind of look related, don’t we? Good looks and all… but she and I were both orphans, she was adopted by Hayden, and I… the man who adopted me was Jon, the previous Lord of Meteli who... who I failed to protect.” 

Lord Aphmau was frowning, he could tell by the sound of her voice. “Laurence, I’m so sorry…”

Laurence took a deep breath, his chest aching both from Cadenza smothering him and the topic of conversation: “I think I just want to rest for now, until Garroth comes back.” He let that slip out without meaning to. “I’d rather not let these thoughts get to me… Thank you for being honest with me.”

“Of course, Laurence… rest well. I will inform Garroth.”

What she was going to inform him of was beyond the Guard, but he didn’t care once he closed his eyes and rolled onto his side. 

… Garroth had heard from Kiki after speaking with her of the new farm house to be used a baby shower that Zane had commandeered one of the village houses, and was asked by one of Zaner’s personal guards no less to watch over it while Zane spent some quality time in the plaza.

So he was watching it… all day. Trying to peer in through the windows, trying to open the door, but to no avail. 

It was nightfall when Lord Aphmau had finally found him.

“Lord Aphmau… every moment he’s here worries me.”

She already seemed to be aware of who he was talking about. “We need to get rid of him.”

Garroth heaved out an exasperated sigh. “Again, Lord Aphmau, we cannot. Zane has too much influence, O’Khasis has an immense supply of military power and so does Scaleswind. We must stay on Zane’s good side, if he even has one…”

“Why…?” She pleaded.

“You know what he tried to do with Dale and Molly’s home. He will use anything to his disposal to get what he wants  and will use force to destroy our village if he sees fit. Again, no disrespect you, but you do not know my brother the way I do…” 

Lord Aphmau, even if Garroth was hurt by it, was justifiably upset. “How does someone like that come into power? Aren’t you the oldest?!”

“I am the oldest, but he is the most loyal to our Father…” Garroth spoke begrudgingly. Though he may have been Father’s favorite in the past - that was definitely not the case anymore.

“Then… why doesn’t he marry the daughter of Scaleswind?” 

“It is pure tradition, formalities, politics… marrying a first-born to a second-born is considered offensive.” He sighed. “Especially when the first-born is alive and well… especially since Scaleswind and O’Khasis are on the brink of war, any wrong move could set those two village-states off. Anyway… I’m going to patrol this house once more tomorrow after I check up on Laurence again. Just… to see if Zane is up to anything inside. Remember to keep this information from everyone. If they try to harm Zane we might not be able to control the outcome… especially if Dale finds out Zane threatened Alexis.” 

“I understand.” Lord Aphmau stood tall like Garroth was the Lord, and she the guard, though her face was sour and depressed. Garroth recognized that expression too well on Laurence when he woke up and hadn’t realized Garroth was watching him. 

Garroth had never had the misfortune of being trapped in his own mind, but he had been plagued by terrible memories and anxiety. 

“Lord Aphamu, please, cheer up!” He tried. “You always look beautiful when you smile,” Something Garroth had been doing ever since Laurence’s disappearance was using some of his vocabulary on Lord Aphmau. As a means of… feeling like he was still there. “Please, try not to worry too much, we will find a way to get out of this situation. Right now, we just need to play our cards right and very carefully. I’ll stay here, go bring smiles to the other villagers.” 

Lord Aphmau, for him, smiled sadly and sweetly before walking away. 

A few seconds later, Garroth was ready to see if Laurence had been wasting the day asleep or spiraling - he heard Zane approach.

“Well, that was certainly a conversation.” Without thinking he drew his sword, but to his surprise Zane was all alone. “Come now, brother, we both know you aren’t going to turn that against me.”

“What if I were? Serves you right for what you’ve been doing, and how you’ve been treating my Lord.”

“Ah yes. Your Lord.” He could hear the smile under his brother’s mask. “Garroth, Father is your rightful Lord, we both know this… but I didn’t come here to convince you of anything.” Zane looked away. “Well, not directly anyway.” 

“Speak. Lest you waste my time, I have other matters to attend to, as Head Guard of Phoenix Drop.”

“Oh but there is another guard here isn’t there?”

“... What do you mean?”

“I had heard from… Cadenza? I believe it was? That her dear brother is resting all by his lonesome in the Lord’s basement. She says he’s gone blind, and was hoping I’d do what I could to try and fix it.” 

“You stay away from Laurence!” Garroth shouted into the night, the birds in the trees reacting to his mighty voice. Even Zane’s eye went wide, though it was full of amusement.

“How… interesting. This man, Laurence, really is dear to you? … Just as dear as your Lord one may argue.”

“I cherish everyone who lives in Phoenix Drop dearly. All except you.” Garroth spat. “You are to stay away from Laurence, he does not need nor want your help.”

“Garroth,” Zane laughed. “He doesn’t even know I’m here, does he?” Garroth shrinking back on himself was enough of a tell. “Have you even asked if he wanted his sight back? What if he knows I can save his vision? That I am able to restore it? Would you deny him that help simply because you despise me so?”

“I know if he were to discover who you were, what you’ve done, he would refuse.”

“Why don’t you go ask him?”

Garroth didn’t move.

“Hm. Maybe you don’t know him as well as you think.”

“Oh please,” Garroth scoffed, allowing sarcasm to slip into his speech. “What do you know of Laurence?”

“I know he’s a Shadow Knight.” Zane hissed into the night sky. 

Garroth’s heart stopped. “...H… How…?”

“I have my ways, Garroth. I am a priest after all, I detected the darkness from your Lord’s house the second he was brought here! How intriguing you and your Lord are keeping it a secret from your citizens. It would be a shame if someone were to tell them…or… if something were to happen to him in reply.” 

“You wouldn’t!” Garroth screamed again as Zane laughed.

“You can stay here and defend that cursed soul, or you can come with me and Laurence and the child will be just as well off with you gone.” Zane stood up straight. “I’ve decided to extend my stay, as I am enjoying it here so so much. I am starting to see why you ran away…” Garroth breathed heavily, hyperventilating as Zane turned and walked away.

Every instinct of Garroth screaming to stab his brother while his back was turned… but hte second Zane was out of his sights, Garroth stormed up the stairs to Lord Aphmau’s house, leaping over one of her demolished walls and running into the basement where Laurence’s head snapped in his direction.

“Laurence.” He breathed and instantly the man furrowed his brow.

“Garroth… what’s wrong? You sound… scared.” 

“Are you alright?” Garroth dropped his weapon and grabbed Laurence’s hand who fumbled a bit but wrapped his fingers around Garroth’s hand. “Any visitors?”

“Yes… and yes. I’m okay.” Laurence laughed nervously. “Just Cadenza and Aphmau… why…? Is everything alright?”

“... I am afraid I’ve been keeping something from you.” 

Laurence sat up. “What is it?”

“I have been hiding my face in fear that my past would catch up to me… and very recently it has… My brother, Zane, is a High Priest from… my home village… he has come to collect me, bring me back home, and I do not want to go with him.” Garroth explained rather quickly, not trying to get into everything that had happened, especially while Laurence was away being tormented. “Now he has threatened the citizens of Phoenix Drop and I am… I am worried he is going to do something truly terrible to those I care about.” 

Laurence didn’t respond instantly, instead took it all in carefully. “Why is he so insistent you return home?”

“...” Garroth took a deep breath, unconsciously gripping Laurence’s hand tighter. “I am to marry the daughter of Scaleswind to join our two villages into one kingdom.”

Despite not being able to see, somehow Laurence’s eyes locked with his and surprised was apinted on his face.

“Wh… what are you going to do, Garroth?” 

“I can’t go with him. I… I can’t. I do not want to marry someone I haven’t even met… I don't even know her name, how could I possibly love her? I–”

But he ceased his ramblings as Laurence put his hands on Garroth's then slowly dragged them up to his shoulders. “Calm down, Garroth.” Garroth looked into Laurence’s eyes, soft and grey. “You do not have to go with him, no one should have to marry someone else they aren’t in love with…but you are Phoenix Drop’s Head Guard. So you need a plan rather than just waiting this out.”

Garroth felt his shoulder fall slack under Laurence’s hands. “...I… I know…” He lowered his head shamefully. “I have been telling Lord Aphmau to wait, and do nothing, just keep watching… but I fear what might happen if we continue to stall… I am… I am worried Zane is going to hurt someone.”

“Hey,” Laurence snapped, though there was a teasing edge in his voice. “Just because I can’t see doesn’t mean I’m not still dangerous… I have years of training up my sleeve. I can protect myself.” Laurence assured, then pointing to what he assumed was Garroth's chest. “You need to protect your villagers, okay? Try not to stress about me, your people come first.”

“... Thank you, Laurence. I fear you have been providing more comfort for me than I, you.”

“Untrue,” Laurence denied, tightening his grip on Garroth’s hand. “You’re here right now… and that is payback enough.” 

Chapter Text

At some point in the very early morning, he was gently shaken awake. Laurence opened his eyes slowly and shifted them in the direction of a somewhat familiar silhouette. The person beside him smelt of baby powder and dust. 

“Laurence?” She whispered, like his ears were the thing damaged. 

“... Yeah? Who are you?”

“Oh!” She must be blushing with embarrassment, “How rude of me I never formally introduced myself, did I? My  name is Zoey, I live down here in Lord Aphmau’s house. I am Levin’s caretaker, the one who healed your burns.”

A lot to unpack there, he heard of Levin before - and Laurence recalled that was Aphmau’s(he assumes adoptive) child. “... Right. Did you… you need something from me?”

“Yes, actually. Here, let me help you up. Kawaii~Chan is remodeling the basement, providing you and I our own rooms down here… or well, my room and a “guest room.” 

“That’s where I’ll be staying I imagine.”

“Yes, until you’ve… until you’re better enough to hopefully live on your own.”

Laurence laughed as Zoey pulled him to his feet, one hand on his bicep and the other around his waste to steady him. “I understand, I wouldn’t want Lord Aphmau to have to take care of two children now would I?”

Zoey sounded like she was making a face at him. “You are not a child, you’re just going through a difficult situation. Lord Aphmau is more than happy to allow you to stay with her as long as needed.”

“You both are too kind… and so is this Kawaii~Chan for building this room for me… where should I stay in the meantime?” 

“Lord Aphmau’s room has been finished, she doesn’t mind you upstairs until down here is all set.”

“Alright.”

Zoey carefully and very, excruciatingly slowly, took Laurence up to the third floor(yes, he counted) and opened a door before setting him down on a bed. 

“It shouldn’t be terribly long, I’ll be assisting. Is there anything I can do for you before I go and help? I’d… I don’t want you to be alone…”

Then send Garroth up here, he wanted to say, but… no. Garroth was probably on his patrol and Laurence had told him just the day prior to focus on his villagers rather than Laurence. With a tight smile he said; “I’ll be fine.” 

“... If you say so.” Zoey lingered a moment longer before he heard her footsteps walk away and the door shut.

He was now alone in Lord Aphmau’s room. Not that he could really explore or snoop through anything. That would also be inappropriate and he’d hate to piss off Garroth and Lord Aphmau when they were being so hospitable and when they were just hitting it off… 

So, Laurence laid back carefully against the satin fabric of the bed and tried to ignore the blinding light preventing him from rest.

When he was woken up a second time it was to be escorted back downstairs into his more proper room.

His nose wrinkled as it absolutely reeked of cupcakes and sweat.

A few minutes after he was settled, the door opened.

Lavender.

Aphmau.

“Laurence,” She breathed in deeply, approaching his bedside and laying a gentle light hand on his forearm. “How are you this morning?”

“This place smells like cupcakes… am I correct in assuming that is because of this Kawaii~Chan?”

“Yeah, she offered to renovate my house for me… so she rebuilt it essentially, and made a room for you and Zoey. have you met Zoey yet, Laurence?”

“I have… that was very nice of Kawaii~Chan. She sounds like a very sweet girl, you have some nice friends, Lord Aphmau.” A smile pulled at his lips, he could guess Aphmau was smiling too.

“Thank you… say, Laurence… There are two villagers in Phoenix Drop, Molly and Emma, both of whom recently had children. Would you like to attend a conjoined baby shower at the barn? Just on the east side of the hill?” 

“Uh…” Laurence’s heart swelled at the idea and at the invitation. But just as soon as joy overcame him it seemed like his curse, that horrid transformation, had clouded his mind to only focus on the bad. As he was instantly reminded of the phantom pain in his limbs, the death of Ungrth, becoming a Shadow Knight, being blind… “I don’t think I’d be someone who is very fun to be around right now…” 

“Come on, Laurence.” Lord Aphmau sounded much more giddier now, perhaps she was trying to be this joyful intentionally. This whole Zane and Laurence showing up thing must have driven her up the walls with stress. Everyone was being so overly kind to him for a reason… that darkness in the back of his mind was now chanting quietly; “burden burden burden…”

Laurence awkwardly adjusted himself in his bed, now moving his hands across his torso. “Um… but… I… my clothes feel… ripped. Are they nice? I don’t think they… they feel wrong. I couldn’t go out like this, I mean—”

“Perhaps we can consult Candenza!”

Just as she said that, like Lord Aphmau had summoned her, the scent of roses hit the room as his sister made her presence known: “Looks like I made my trip here at just the right moment, hehe!” She giggled, from where her voice was coming from, Laurence gathered she was at the foot of his bed. “I heard you guys talking about me and clothes and… poof!”

“Cadenza? What are you–”

“I came to visit you.” Her voice turned softer, he can only imagine what look she was giving his pathetic state right now. “Lady Aphmau here told me yesterday I could come and visit you whenever I pleased, so… I wanted to come over and bring you some clothes I made for you. I took one look at your outfit yesterday and decided you could use something much nicer.”

Laurence wasn’t sure what to say. He had appreciated all the honesty and care he had been shown and now even more of it was just surrounding him. Part of him thought it was suffocating but he pushed those thoughts aside. “Th- thank you…”

“Don’t mention it! It’s just like old times, remember? Haha! Lady Aphmau, do you know Laurence considered us to be like siblings? But I truly was like his mother more than anything, Laurence cannot dress himself nor do his hair for shit! Haha!” She cackled, if he knew his sister - and he did, she had thrown her head back too. Such a beautiful and proper woman upon first glance… but then you get to know this side of her. The one that camps out in the words and swears like a teenager.

“Cadenza!” Laurence shouted, his voice going up an octave. 

Oh Gods, he had been so busy trying to memorize the smell of those who visited him he missed how he himself must’ve reeked. He probably smelt like soot and sweat and blood.

But asking Cadenza to help him bathe would be just too embarrassing… Gods know he couldn’t ask Aphmau either…

“Goodness,” Cadenza shook her head. “Look at you Laurence, your hair is a matted mess and its color is washing out… would you like me to pick some more tulips so we can dye it again? Or would you rather we wash it out to its former color?” 

Laurence couldn’t recall what his original hair color even was, it was so long ago… Wait, would Cadenza be doing his hair? Oh Gods, would Cadenza be cleaning him up too? His face must’ve been beet red with how he felt eyes on him.

“Are you referring to the color it was before you turned into a chicken? Or… But…” Laurence sighed. “The original color could be nice.”

“Wait,” Lord Aphmau giggled. “Your hair is dyed ? It’s not orange?!”

“Hahah!” Cadenza cackled loudly once more. “I uh… kind of dyed Laurence’s hair literally three days before the whole chicken thing happened with Castor… he said he wanted to look different for whatever purpose and well, my hair is a beautiful color, and we are brother and sister… so…” Cadenza was possibly moving her hands as she ranted on and on. As she tended to do.

“I had originally told her no on the orange a few times, but she insisted it would look good and promised not to use any yellow or blonde… but even still, my hair ended up looking like it was on fire the whole time, I just wanted to look different because—”

“Oh my gosh, wait, yeah! The dye literally stained his forehead and ears! You should’ve seen it!”

And somehow, just by the sound of her voice, just by her story alone about their past, and growing up… the shadows went quiet and Laurence felt bliss consume him as he too began to roar with laughter. He allowed it to fill him with bliss and in those few seconds just forget all that was wrong.

Cadenza put a hand on his leg. “Now that smile there!” She was pointing. “That’s the Laurence I remember… Come on, let’s go get you cleaned up.” She moved to his bed side and took his left arm, wrapping it over the back of her neck as Laurence tried to assist her in getting up. His sister ended up have to half-drag him out of the bed and caught Laurence as he stumbled to his feet. Her hand holding onto his wrist and the other planted firmly on his waist. Instinctively, Laurence put a hand on her back, just lightly pressing his fingers into her long hair.

He could also remember the color of it too… bright and orange like his own, but it had bright yellow streaks in it too, like an ember.
“Do not fret, Lady Aphmau, I’ll Laurence looking so handsome before the shower you’ll barely even recognize him! And I’m serious about that too, you’re not gonna recognize Laurence once I’ve changed his hair back to normal… and cut it.”

She whispered that last bit but Laurence heard her loud and clear. Being next to her and all. “Wait, I don’t—”

“Oh! Kawaii~Chan told me about the shower and everything on her way out of here, so I’ll be attending too! We’ll see you later, Lord Aphmau!” 

Cadenza walked carefully but not as slowly as Zoey had earlier and guided him up the stairs and then outside. Laurence had not been wearing shoes with whatever rags he was currently cloaked in – but he had to physically stop the second his barefoot met the grass.

“Laurence?” Cadenza whispered. Before gasping and removing her hand from his wrist and to his face to wipe away the tears that were spilling down from his eyes. 

“I… I haven’t felt the grass in so long…”

Cadenza opened her mouth to speak but closed it again, she was going to ask about what happened to him, he knew it. But she kept quiet thankfully. 

“Do you need a moment?”

Laurence sniffled, shaking his head. “No… no, I’m okay… Let’s keep going.” 

Cadenza guided him through most of the village, he could feel the hot rays of the sun boring into the back of his head along with many curious eyes of the villagers he passed by.

He smelt iron and sweat, books and rust, dog fur and the sweet sweet scent of fresh air. Laurence wanted to stop and take it all in again but he feared how it must look to the people of this city and allowed Cadenza to escort him to her home.

“Here we are,” She sighed as she opened the door. “Luckily I am not too far away from the hot springs Lady Aphmau is working on, the water is there and it is certainly warm… but it is a work in progress. I’ll grab my soaps, some rags, and your new clothes.

“Cadenza…”

Laurence heard her huff stubbornly, similar to how Zoey had earlier. “Do not say you’ll be embarrassed. You forget though we had different fathers, we grew up under the same roof for a long while before you became a guard and I became a free-spirit. If anything I should be the one you trust the most with this as because I am your sister I will not make it weird.” 

Laurence’s face still contorted in such an awkward manner anyhow.

But he was left sitting in Cadenza’s kitchen as she ruffled through her belongings in the floor below, then quickly returned. “My hands are a bit full, so let’s link elbows.” Laurence did as he was told and Cadenza guided him a short walk to the hot springs.

Water. Gods, it had been so long since he heard the sound of running water, or even felt it on his skin.

Zoey had given him plenty to drink the day after he woke up, and had supposedly used some water to wipe the dirt from his wounds, but he hadn’t felt any of it.

This would be his first time in weeks, though for him, it felt like an eternity. 

Without a word, Cadenza had set her stuff down, she looked away while Laurence removed his trousers and entered the spring then opened her eyes to assist him in taking off his shirt. 

Laurence sat back against the stone while Cadenza used a ladle to entirely soak his hair without having to submerge the man underwater. 

It doesn’t even matter anymore the fact that it is his sister doing this… it’s just that she has to.

“You know,” Laurence breathes out once Cadenza stops dumping water on his head and over his face. “I probably could’ve done most of this myself. Once I knew the way…”

“I’m sure you could have.” Cadenza replies patiently. Despite having wet his hair first, he feels her pour something in the water surrounding him, probably more scrubs - creating bubbles and suds around him to soak in. “But not right now, not like this.” Cadenza whispered, she found Laurence’s hand mumbling and instructing him to rub in the soap below his chest in places Cadenza would have to either get in the water to assist with or that Laurence was definitely uncomfortable with her helping with–

She moved his hair out of the way and used a rag to start cleaning his back and bare chest - Laurence wouldn’t admit it aloud but it was absolutely wonderful to feel each piece of dirt and ash be cleansed from his skin. 

“Alright, I’m going to rinse out the dye so I need you to shut your eyes.”

“This isn’t going to leave a giant stain on my forehead again, is it?”

Cadenza giggled to herself as Laurence shut his eyes, she pulled a strand of his hair back probably to check he actually did so. “No. I’ve gotten better at this!”

She proceeded to coat his hair in some formula and began to rub it in fiercely. 

“Wait a moment, you dyed my hair three days before you became a chicken—”

“Can’t hear you over me doing your hair for you out of the kindness of my heart…!” 

At some point of Cadenza messaging his hair pouring on dyes, and shampoos, and cackling to herself madly for what felt like an hour, he felt her wrap a towel around his locks and double tapped his shoulder, signaling him to get out of the hot spring. He did as he was told and felt a warm cloth wrap around his frame, he held onto the ends of it as Cadenza guided him to another stone-seating area. 

Without any more words from her she was mostly focused on drying his hair for him while Laurence focused on the sensation of cobblestone beneath his feet.

He had never been so close to nature in just a few seconds, and now that he was, he truly realized just how much of the world he took for granted. Even if he couldn’t see it anymore, it was still there.

The world didn’t end in the Nether, he was back, back in the Overworld and with Lord Aphmau, Garroth, Cadenza, and a few others who might be just as welcoming and curious about him as he is wondrous about them. 

At some point he heard the snipping of scissors; “Not too short, Cadenza. I liked this length.”

“I’ll do what I can Laurence, but understand after weeks of not tending to it some parts are so matted they need to be removed. It’ll grow back.” Cadenza explained sweetly. 

… Eventually, Cadenza announced proudly she was finished and Laurence was scared. Scared of just how much lighter his hair head, and just how much of it he felt move past his face and hit the ground beneath this. “I’ll sweep this up later, okay, let’s get you changed.”

“Out here?!”

“Yeah, I brought the clothes, and don’t worry. I made absolutely sure this area is private and concealed - that’s why I brought you out here in the first place. 

With a heavy sigh, Laurence stood up - Cadenza rubbed his body firmly with the cloth just to make sure he was entirely dry before she lowered it and tied a knot around his waste. “Let me help you with your shirt first, and then I’ll have your under garments and pants ready for you to step into.” 

Laurence raised his arms as Cadenza put a wool shirt over his torso and adjusted the long sleeves on his arms before he stepped into the lower-part of his outfit. Just as he was adjusting the belt around his waist, Cadenza fixed it for him.

“I could’ve done that.”

“I know, but still.” She sounded like she was smiling. “Okay, sit down so I can put on your shoes… This isn’t the whole uniform, I was thinking about what kind of jacket I should throw on you.”

Laurence frowned. “Cadenza…” 

“Trust me, Laurence. I’m still deciding between a green or a blue.”

“I won’t be able to tell the difference.”

“But others will! Now, come on,” Cadenza took Laurence by the elbow and walked him back to her house. He could feel eyes lingering on him again but he felt less insecure about what they were staring at. He knew he was properly bathed and clothed now. It was probably because he couldn’t look anyone in the eye if he tried. 

… As much as Garroth hated leaving Laurence’s side, the man was right. He was a duty to Phoenix Drop first before anything so here he was. 

And… Garroth was a little too suspicious about just how quiet it was. Last time it was this peaceful in Phoenix Drop was the calm before the storm as Zenix had ambushed the village.

But Zane, and his guards, are nowhere to be found. And trust him, he had looked. Nearly everywhere - even in the villager’s houses where they allowed him to inspect.

Lord Aphmau had informed him the last sighting of Zane was in the plaza, so he went there next.

Only…

“What in the world is this…?” Garroth muttered to himself as he took cautious steps down into where those vile O’Khasis guards had dug up their plaza for “material” for whatever Zane was doing. It was just another tactic to establish their dominance over this village by not using the mines that were quite literally two feet from where they had dug.

“Oh! Lord Aphmau!” Garroth turned to address her as she approached from his peripheral. “We have both a problem and a blessing.”

“... What is it?” Lord Aphmau asked tentatively, stepping into the dug out portion with Garroth.

“Zane hasn’t been seen all day by anyone in the village. I knocked on his door but there was no answer nor a way to see what was going on inside. If we do not see him for twenty-four hours we are permitted to break in to make sure he is safe. But… perhaps he forgot about everything and left.”

“Is that possible?”

Garroth admits he was tacking on his own personal fantasies at the end of that theory but… one can hope. “Well, if an emergency came up in O’Khasis, then yes. But… I do not know… he is not one to give up so easily… or ever.”

“Then we can only hope.” Lord Aphmau exhaled exasperatedly. 

“Indeed… by the way, have you thought of anything that might… help my engagement?” 

“... What if… you faked your death?” Lord Aphmau sounded as if she had clearly not been thinking of ideas up until Garroth had asked her.

It would be amusing if– “I already attempted to fake my death once, there was a reason I wore my helmet. Sometime after becoming a Guard in Phoenix Drop I attempted to spread a rumor that the eldest son of O’Khasis, me, had perished in some freak accident. And yet, they were still somehow able to find me and knew I was alive… that is out of the question.

Lord Aphmau frowned. “What if… you pretended to have a girlfriend?”

Garroth felt his face heat up once more, pondering if the red of his cheeks were visible through his helmet at this point. “Uh…um… wh-what…?” He coughed, looking away. “I… I never thought about that… it… it couldn’t be just any girl though. It would have to be a woman in power… or one with magical abilities, or… if they had a village of their own…” Garroth was rambling at this point, half conscious of what he was doing and saying and half spouting nonsense. He wondered about Laurence absently. “Then… yes… yes! That might actually work! But… who would… on such short notice… the only person is…”

“... You are referring to me, aren’t you?” Her voice was so deadpan it shocked Garroth back into reality.

“N- no! No! I couldn’t ask you to do such a thing!” He quickly back-tracked.

“What other options do we have, Garroth?”

Garroth took a moment to compose himself, truly thinking it over. Cadenza or Zoey could be an option. Zoey is a powerful magicks user and she is immortal, so chances of her perishing or being attacked is unlikely… but… no, they could go for Levin instead.

Cadenza isn’t exactly royalty, she is an adopted child of a man running for Lordship in Meteli - he holds no real power. 

Then there is another magicks user, Kawaii~Chan but… no. Just no.

“Look, if you are okay with posing as my girlfriend, then I am all for it… but we need see what the laws state about this kind of event. Gods forbid there is an execution that they… I don’t even want to think about… or they might automatically declare war on Phoenix Drop…” Garroth shook his head. “Every action has repercussions, we need to figure out if this is a route that is even possible. We need to casually pass it by Zane and see what would happen if there was another woman in my life.”

Lord Aphmau seemed a little more relaxed at the idea of not instantly playing his romantic partner. Which was… interesting. Disappointing… “You’re right, we need to know what could happen if we went with that excuse.”

“If you see Zane before I do, inquire about it. Do not - and I repeat- do not tell him I do before you are made aware of what the repercussions are. I fear he might do something rash… okay?”

“Understood, Garroth.”

He winced under his armor, he had always felt so guilty giving his Lord orders. It should be the other way around.

He never would’ve been a good Lord. 

Even so, he sighed. “I thank you dearly, Lord Aphmau. I… I cannot express vocally how truly sorry I am to have to drag you through my own personal dilemmas… I wish this wasn’t even a thing at all to begin with… just when things in the village here were starting to… nevermind. Thank you. Again.” 

“Don’t mention it… Oh! Garroth! Kiki is throwing that baby shower for both Molly and Emma! Please say you’ll be joining us?”

“Kiki is actually having it? Splendid! I’ll be there.” He paused in his joys, for a moment, “Is… Is Laurence attending?”

Lord Aphmau eyed him before smiling knowingly. “... Yes, actually. He is. And Cadenza is cleaning him up nicely… she says we won’t even be able to tell it’s the same Laurence.”

Garroth paused. “I… I am worried about what that means.”

Lord Aphmau laughed, however. “Do not fret, I am sure he will still be the same Laurence we both cherish. I’ll see you later.” And she carefully climbed out of the hole in the ground and went on her merry way. 

Garroth stared longingly into the dark abyss that they had dug up beneath their plaza… it looked like Nether-ore but it was far too dark - and when Garroth jabbed at it with his sword it felt indestructible. There were simple purple lights as well but… but there was nothing to be done about. He had to do one more lap around the village to ensure Zane was truly gone before he could start mining for materials to rebuild the damage.

With a hearty sigh, Garroth walked away.

… Garroth was there first, before Lord Aphmau and before Laurence, to the baby shower. He was standing guard along with Brian but… when Zane approached with that necklace… he had a sinking feeling in his stomach. “Lord Aphmau!” He called her over quickly. “Please… go ask Zane. I do not know what he is up to but…” He looked over at the children. “He didn’t look right… not that he ever does but…”

“I will. Wait here, make sure everyone is fine.” And with that she quickly left.

Garroth waited anxiously as he watched his Lord leave. Part of him was watching the door for other reasons too… Laurence and Cadenza still hadn’t made their faces known yet.

Garroth recalled the threat Zane made towards Laurence and… no… he was tasked with staying inside and seeing to the guests. Not to mention Laurence said he could handle himself.

This was fine.

Everything was fine.  

… “Okay, can you wait here a second? I’m gonna reveal you to Aphmau– oh! Wonderful! Here she comes!”

“Cadenza if I trip and fall I swear–” But Cadenza let go of his arm and quickly skipped up a few steps just ahead of him. Quickly he adjusted his feet to maintain balance - it was not the first time he had been left hanging by a girl. 

“Ah, Cadenza, pardon me I was just running to my home real fast–” 

“Da da-da-da!~ Cadenza Beauty is proud to present… the Old Laurence!”

A terrible introduction but he will let his sister have some fun. Besides, it sounded like Lady Aphmau had more urgent matters to attend to than seeing him.

Which hurt, yeah, but whatever.

He slowly and with his arms out made his way up each step carefully until Cadenza grabbed his hand and forced him up the rest of the way, turning his body probably in the direction of Aphmau’s eyes. 

“Is that really you, Laurence?!” Lord Aphamu gasped and laughed.

He shuffled his head, god he really hoped he didn’t look ridiculous. His hair was already insanely short. He adjusted the jacket around his torso and just nodded. 

“I can’t believe it, you really do look so different!”

“Hehe… well, I’ll leave you two alone to get to know each other again!” Cadenza cooed teasingly and Laurence’s face began to blush. He doesn’t remember telling Cadenza about his feelings for Lord Aphmau… how could she have–

“Wait, huh? But we–” Lord Aphmau sighed fondly as Cadenza’s footsteps faded into the distance. “Well, I’ve been alone with you before, Laurence.”

 Oh how he was loathing Cadenza like a sister for real this time.

“Please don’t tell me she dyed my hair blue… she was laughing like a witch the entire time she was doing my “transformation”...” 

He could hear the grin in Lord Aphmau’s words: “Your hair is blue… haha!”

Laurence, however, being blind and all, missed the joke entirely. “What?! Are you serious?!” He screamed. “I’m going to murder Cadenza for this! Ugh! I knew she’d do something like this!” Laurence stamped his foot to the ground and nearly toppled over, Lord Aphmau put a hand on his shoulder - though it was shaking… from laughter. 

“Haha! Laurence, calm down! I am just joking.” She heaved out her own giggles, the sound was nice…

He felt his face grow even redder, “Ugh… Lord Aphmau, that is not funny… haha… hahaha!” But he ended up chuckling with her, his shoulders shaking with the sound. “... it feels good to laugh again.” He turned to face her, assuming he was looking at her. “To be honest, I’m slowly starting to get used to this… change.”

“That’s wonderful, Laurence.” She kept her hand on his shoulder and squeezed it gently. “I’m proud of you.”

“Thanks. Say… would you mind helping me to the party?” He grinned awkwardly. “It’s really hard to walk around and Cadenza tried playing a “follow my voice” game but… I bumped into quite a few things, let’s just say.”

“Sure!” Lord Aphmau, grabbed Laurence’s hand and lightly tugged him along before stopping abruptly. “Wh… wait a minute–”

He heard two… no… three groups of footsteps approach. Three people. The two reeked of armor-polish that he tried once and hated… the other… smelt of sin.

“Lady Aphmau,” Someone spoke up suddenly, their rough deep and aggravated. “By the authority of O’Khasis you are hereby under arrest for espionage.”

“Wh.. what?!” He felt Lord Aphmau stumble back, her voice rising and her hand suddenly squeeze Laurence’s harder like she forgot he was holding onto her. Laurence shot her a look, unsure if it was received.

“High Priest Zane—”   As the guard explained, Laurence froze.

Zane.

He had heard that name before… from Garroth. That was the name of Garroth’s brother. He squeezed back against Lord Aphmau’s hand. 

Suddenly the scent of pine and heavy footsteps approached, Laurence turned his head to who he assumed - by the smell - was Garroth.“What is going on here?!”

“Garroth thank the Gods you’re here–” Lord Aphmau began but was cut off by a voice that was sly and distrusting.

Laurence wrinkled his nose instinctively.

“Garroth, Brother, your Lord is attempting to pose as your love interest to stop your wedding from happening… Did you have any idea she was up to his? That she would stoop so low as to keep you here? She is under arrest and will be held on trial on the account of trying to start the fires of war!” 

“You… you can’t do this!” Garroth shouted the loudest Laurence has ever heard him. “She is entirely innocent! If you lay a hand on her—” 

“Now now, brother, I’m just trying to do what is lawfully right. We can’t have Lords as unjust as her leading villages into espionage.” 

“What exactly has she done?!” Garroth defended.

“She proposed a theoretical question of you having another woman as your lover. Now, exactly why would she even ask such a question like that if she wasn’t plotting something mischievous? Hm? It makes sense, after all, she doesn’t even have a lover, much less a husband, so of course she’d try to come between this treaty-marriage. Now that she knows you’re hte son of the Lord of O’Khasis she’ll do anything for money and power! At least, that is what I’ll be telling the judges—”

“You best not call her disrespectful names again or I’ll–” 

And then, Laurence scoffed.

He told Garroth he could handle himself and now to ease the Guard’s worries even more, he’d protect Aphmau.

Again.

“I do not appreciate you talking about My Lord Aphmau, my fiancé, at all.” 

Silence fell over the crowd as Laurence could feel all eyes on him. He heard the tiniest gasp escape Garroth’s mouth.

He’ll fret about that later.

“What?!” Zane snapped.
  When everyone remained even more quiet, Laurence did his best to stand tall, not letting go of Aphmau’s hand while she was just as baffled as the rest of them… the only person who seemed to be aware of his plot was Garroth.

Thankfully.

“You cannot be serious!” Zane roared with laughter. “Laurence..?! Are you trying to cover for her?! I am not stupid, you know! I know who you are! I know what you are! Do not dare—”

“What’s the matter, Zane?” Laurence tilted his head. “I’ve heard that name before… aren’t you the High Priest of O’Khasis? I thought those types of people in power don’t believe in the Shadow Lord figure? Isn’t it a little taboo for you to believe in something like that?”

“Well… well, yes, but—”

Garroth could laugh. He could cry. Hell, he could kiss Laurence. He had never seen anyone entirely ruin his younger brother’s composure like that - no one besides his father. 

This was…

“You are trying to take away the love of my life… the only person who brings light into a world that turned into dark for me… the council of Elders in O’Khasis might not be as sympathetic to your plight of trying to accuse Lord Aphmau of something she obviously didn’t do.” 

Zane’s voice was low as he growled, “Don’t make me destroy you, Laurence. I will not let you of all people stand in my way…” 

“Try me.”  As those words left Laurence he felt something… shift inside of him. “I’d rather you destroy me then let you lay a hand on Lord Aphmau, or Garroth for that matter. I am unassociated with this village, nor do I have anything to lose.” 

“Heh. I don’t believe this for one second, Garroth? Is this Lord Aphmau going to marry Laurence? With your blessing?”

Everyone’s gaze had turned to Garroth. Even Laurence’s.

Laurence was well aware of how Garroth had been hiding his feelings for Lord Aphmau since the day he told him to stop flirting with her and how bashfully he had reacted when Laurence flipped the accusation.

All he needed Garroth to do was to nod and smile. There would be no wedding, no marriage, Lord Aphmau made it very clear to Laurence - as of right now anyway - she didn’t love him. Not in the same way he did for her.

… Garroth looked between Lord Aphmau and Laurence. Laurence who looked so…so…

“Well? I need an answer.”

“... Yes.” 

Laurence looked so handsome.

Zane smirked under his mask, it was telling in his voice as he babbled on about how he would blame his guards for jumping to conclusions and how he is so looking forward to Lord Aphmau and Laurence’s wedding. 

When he finally walked away, Garroth allowed his muscles to finally relax.

But just as quickly, Laurence let go of Aphmau’s hand. “I’m… I’m so sorry.” He breathed out. Genuinity feeling every inch of his voice.

“No. Laurence, do not be.” Garroth spoke firmly, finding Laurence’s hand and holding it tightly so he wouldn’t pull away. “You saved Lord Aphmau’s life, again, thank you.” 

“I… actually think you did.” Lord Aphmau laughed but there was sorrow and fear leaking from it like she truly had just experienced the scare of her life.

Garroth did not let go of Laurence’s hand, nor did Laurence pull away. 

“I hope you know, Garroth. I’m not actually planning on marrying Lord Aphmau, I just used it as a ruse to get Zane out of her face.” 

“I know.” Garroth reassured him. Those two words worked wonders as Laurence’s entire figure seemed to un-tense. “I just wish Zane would disappear. I… I kind of hoped he had tried to land a hand on anyone in the village… then I could… I would have…” 

Laurence, still keeping their hands connected, lifted them holding them in an awkward way but using it as a method to guide himself closer to Garroth. “Bt you know what would happen. Don’t you remember what happened to the Neapolitan Villages? Their Lord was killed for simply talking to the Elder Council and was replaced with a fat glutton who does nothing but sit on his ass and do everything he’s told… Garroth, that can not happen here. Your village is blossoming more than any I’ve ever seen.” 

“I appreciate your concern, Laurence, I truly do. I do not think we should talk about this anymore. We’ll figure it out in the morning. Right now… let’s just enjoy the party for what it is. I ask of you not to bring this up to anyone in the village. They don't need to know Zane’s true colors just yet…” 

“I completely understand, Garroth.” Laurence threw his hands up. “Let’s go have fun! Right, my lovely fiancé?!” Laurence was clearly teasing Lord Aphmau, but their connected hands and the fact that Laurence wasn’t turning to address the Lord directly made Garroth’s face heat up. 

“Don’t you ever call me that again!” Lord Aphmau hissed.

“Hah!” Garroth laughed anyhow. “You play a good actor!” 

“Do not encourage him with this! I want no part in any of this acting nor roleplaying!” 

“That is what she gets for trying to convince me my hair was blue!” 

“Oh is it? Well, now I’m going to tell Cadenza to actually dye your hair blue! Doesn’t that sound nice, Garroth? Isn’t that a good plan?”

“HAHA!” He roared. “It is!”

Lord Aphmau snickered with him as Laurence suddenly pouted. “What?!... You guys are jerks!” 

Garroth laughed, “Let’s just go and enjoy the party for once.” Lord Aphmau began to sprint off and he quickly assisted Laurence in chasing after her - after just one look at his giddy expression that said he didn’t want the teasing nor jokes to end. 

Almost like children, or care-free younger adults, the trio ran off towards the barn. 

… As the party went on and Laurence being formally introduced by Lord Aphmau herself to most, if not, all of her people and the babies, Laurence found himself standing against the wall of the barnhouse. Overwhelmed by smells of cakes and lavender, roses, soot, dog fur, baby powder, until… the strong scent of pine finally formed beside him. “I was waiting for you to come find me.” Laurence grinned.

“Yes, I apologize for taking so long.” Garroth sighed. “It has… it has been a very long day.”

“Tell me about it.” Laurence scratched idly at his head.

“You look wonderful, by the way.”

Laurence snapped his head in the direction of Garroth’s voice. “... Huh?”

“I…” Garroth began to stutter and stumble over his words in a similar matter when Laurence accused him of liking Lord Aphmau. “I just… I - I… What I mean is… your hair. It’s nice.”

“... It is brown, right? That was my original hair color.”

“Yes. It’s brown.” Garroth confirmed, brushing his armored fingers along the side of it, and Laurence sighed in relief ignoring how that small action had made his heart stutter.

“Thank the Gods, I was getting very tired of being told it was blue.”

Garroth chuckled warmly and there was silence between the two for a few moments before. “I truly cannot thank you enough for thinking quickly on your feet.” He brought up the previous encounter with Zane. “I am… truly thoroughly impressed by you. You scared the hell out of my younger brother by playing fearless… no one has ever shook him like that before.”

“Well,” Laurence sighed. “It’s a blessing I couldn’t see his face. It’s much easier to talk-down to an enemy you cannot see, nor do you know what they are capable of. I know from you mentioning a High Priest Zane being your brother, that you were from O’Khasis.” 

“... I am sorry I didn’t tell you I was a Lord.”

“I did find it weird that a Guard was being coerced into an arranged marriage.”

“Does… does that change things between us?” Garroth suddenly inquired timidly. “That… that I’m technically a Lord.”

“It does not.” Laurence replied without missing a beat. “Why would it?”

“I do not know.” Garroth huffed out a laugh and shook his head.

“Are you dressed up tonight?”

“No, I am afraid I am still in my armor and helmet.”

“Mhm, and how do I look?” Laurence gestured to his outfit. “It doesn’t feel like a particularly fancy outfit but I do not think a baby shower is a fancy event.”

Garroth grinned. “I think you look just fine… your clothes suit you.”

“Oh yeah?”

“Yea, they bring out your eyes.” 

Laurence furrowed his brows, but kept the smirk plastered onto his face. “You give the strangest compliments, Garroth.”

“Oh…? Should I… stop?”

Laurence considered this. “... No.” 

. . .  At some point in the middle of the night, Laurence’s eyes shot open and he sat up with a start, clutching tightly at his chest as the Overworld felt… dark. Something was happening. Something terrible. Without wasting a second more, Laurence fumbled with his shirt and jacket but managed to throw them on, properly or not, and traced his hand along the wall of the basement until he reached the first floor of Lord Aphmua’s house. The night sky making this an even more challenging feat. 

“Laurence?” Lord Aphmau whispered.

“Aphamu,” Laurence breathed - reaching for her as she took his hand - “Something feels weird… dark… I know this feeling… I felt it when I transcended the realm barrier… what’s going on?”

“Wait here, Laurence, please. I’m going to find out for myself.”

“Please be careful.” Laurence begged and tried to reach for Aphmau again when she let go of his hand, but she was already walking away. 

… Garroth had been woken up by Kawaii~Chan. He was standing guard outside of Lord Aphmau’s house and was half asleep on his post; he hadn’t been sleeping ever since Zane had appeared.

And the sound of Laurence from inside Lord Aphmau’s house. 

He wasn’t sure how Laurence made his way upstairs, but that was the least of his concerns. All of these magick users speaking to him of darkness and unbalance made Garroth’s head spin until the Lord herself stepped out of her house.

“Please! Garroth~Kun there’s something wrong! Kawaii~Chan feels a dark presence– darker than anything Kawaii~Chan has felt before! She can’t even harness magicks for–”

“Lord Aphmau, can you get Kawaii~Chan to calm down? I don’t understand a word she speaks–”

Lord Aphmau took a deep exasperated breath and addressed the cat-witch.

She had rambled on and the only thing Garroth caught was that Kawaii~Chan thought Lord Aphmau had magick. Which was… a little unbelievable. 

He saw Lord Aphmau run off towards the people’s homes and he followed suit instantly. 

“Aphmau!” He roared but she went from Molly and Dale’s house to the plaza– that’s when he saw the darkness and the purple stone…  When he stopped just on the stairs of what used to be their courtyard, he saw a demon, a Shadow Knight rising from seemingly nowhere and launching itself as his Lord violently. “Lord Aphmau!” He cried but she turned to face him. 

“No! Stay back! Don’t hurt her!”

Garroth’s brows furrowed from under his helm. “Wh… what?” 

Just beside him, Molly in a daze and panicked state, holding Alexis’s doll, wobbled into the plaza coming face to face with the Shadow Knight who seemed to freeze upon seeing the villager.

“Moly!” Lord Aphmau and Garroth shouted at once.

“Have… have y- you seen… my baby?” She sobbed, her voice shaking like the world was coming to an end. Maybe it was. 

The Shadow Knight took off its helmet and Garroth went pale.

“M… mama…?” The woman in the uniform whispered before collapsing suddenly into a heap on the floor. Both Lord Aphmau and Molly knelt towards the woman.

“Aphmau… this woman… she called me “mama”... what does this mean?” Molly slowly looked up at the Lord with pleading eyes.

Garroth felt truly so guilty for a number of things in this moment, but the biggest one was how he did not envy Aphmau at all… this is why he could never be Lord.

Lord Aphmau mumbled; “I’m going to find out…” Before collecting herself and running in the direction of Zane’s home.

“Brian!” Garroth shouted. “This way!” He commanded as the two followed their Lord she stopped before his house and turned to them with a new look in her eye Garroth had never seen before, and hated being on the other end of. Aphmau was absolutely livid, her stare sending shivers down her own guard’s spines.

“Get me TNT.”

Brian did as he was told while Garroth stood by Aphmau’s side. Waiting. Both in silence, unsure of what to do… Garroth wanted to check on Laurence.

If Zane followed suit with his threat on Alexis.. Then Laurence… No… As long as he stays in the house, Zoey’s magick is strong enough to keep him protected. He just had to stay there. 

Brian came back and the three stepped back as Lord Aphmau lit the bomb and it took down the door. She stormed inside, weapon in hand but there was only more dark-stone and decayed corpses.

“Wh… what is… what the hell is going on here?!”

“This is… disturbing.” Lord Aphmau replied.

“I knew Zane was a horrid person. I only wish I had done something about it sooner… Aphmau… th- this is all my fault…” 

“Garroth,” Lord Aphmau’s voice loured and it ran chills down his spine. “Now isn’t the time for a pity party. We must get Alexis back to normal.”

Garroth took a deep breath, quickly shaking off his insecurities. “... Agreed. I’ll start conducting my search around the perimeter with Dale.” He then turned to the apprentice he had taken up… hardly an apprentice. Dale trained him more than Garroth had— no. Not the time. “Brian, I want you to identify the skeletons, see if you can determine who they were immediately.” Back to his Lord. “Lord Aphmau, you search inside this house. We will find Zane and make him pay.” 

“Deal.”

“Let’s go.” And just like that, Garroth sprinted out of the house and began searching ravenously around the village. 

… It had been nearly an hour before Lord Aphmau found him again - he had searched the entire village and– “Zane is gone.” He told her, unable to stop the hatred leaking into this voice. “I should be rejoicing at that fact but… I’m not. I want to get my hands on him and destroy him for what’s done to Alexis and Dale’s family.”

“We should focus on Alexis right now.”

Garroth felt guilty for suddenly becoming enraged at these words, but couldn’t compose himself at this moment. “... Don’t you think I know that? Don’t you think that’s what I’m trying to do here?!” He couldn’t stop himself from raising his voice. “How are we expected to get Alexis back to her youth without Zane in custody?!”

“Calm down, Garroth.”

“I’m trying!” He roared. “I’m trying so hard, Lord Aphmau!” He caught himself at her perplexed gaze and took a deep breath. “I never should have let my feelings get in the way of the safety of this village… Zane came for me… if I had just left with him right after the wedding instead of ignoring my responsibilities to stay with you, Alexis would be… oh Gods…” Garroth felt his knees grow weak and pathetically stabbed his sword into the cobblestone path to keep himself upright. Lord Aphmau put her arms out like she was ready to catch him should he collapse. 

“Garroth, we will get Alexis back to normal.” 

He took a deep breath once more. “I have to believe that. I have to… did you find anything in Zane’s house?”

“I… I did. It was… a spirit? Or something… it was friendly and sounded scared… I believe it used to be a person. It spoke of the Shadow Lord and Zane sacrificing it to revive him.” 

“... I do not understand… May I see this for myself?”

“Follow me.” Lord Aphmau nodded, leading the way after waiting a moment for Garroth to stand upright again. 

But as he followed her into the house, he felt a sudden shift in the atmosphere. This whole night had felt wrong and chaotic but as Garroth stepped foot into the house he felt sick and dizzy. 

“... What?! No!” Lord Aphmau fell to the floor at the bright violet lights covering most of the black rock. “It… it was right here! I swear, Garroth, you must believe me! Look! This Heart of Darkness! That is what it gave me!”

“There are some powerful magicks at play here, Lord Aphmau. You do not need to be a magicks user yourself to feel it.”  Garroth wasn’t entirely sure what to believe, but he would trust his Lord. She had no reason to lie to him after tonight. Especially with an active beating heart in her hands… “Lord Aphmau, I ask that you take the rest of the night to rest. Brian and I will be here trying to get inside… wherever you had gone, and investigate it with caution. Hold on carefully to the Heart of Darkness. Keep it at arms length away from Levin… and Garroth whispered to her: “… and Laurence. We do not know what darkness it holds, if Zane was able to transform Alexis into a Shadow Knight with whatever that was… who knows how Laurence will react to it.”

“Got it.” Lord Aphmau sat up slowly, taking a deep breath. “Alright. Do not do anything foolish, either of you. If anything happens here, get me or a magicks user.” 

“Understood, rest well, Lord Aphmau.”

… Laurence had been left standing in the lower level of Aphmau’s house until the scent of roses came bursting through the doors as Cadenza grabbed his shoulders. “Are you okay?!”

Laurence stumbled back at the sudden ‘attack.’ “Yes yes! Cadenza, I’m fine!” 

“Thank the Gods… what is going on?! Something feels wrong and everyone is panicking and Dale and Molly are freaking out and–”

“What?”

“I don’t know, I don't know.” Cadenza shook her head, her hands trembling from the grip she had on Laurence. 

“... Look, why don’t we go down to my room, okay? I’m sure Lord Aphmau is taking care of this….” Laurence found it surprising he was the one consoling Cadenza at this moment. Maybe because she was the one making her panic vocal, while if Laurence had it his way he would've charged outside by Lord Aphmau’s side. Darkness aching in his chest or not.

“Ye…yeah… okay.” Cadenza, instead of playing “following my voice”, decided to link elbows with Laurence and guide him downstairs in his guest room. 

“Oh good.” Zoey sighed at the sight of them. “Yes, I think it’s best if you two stay inside the house until this darkness has passed.”

“What is going on? Cadenza asked, just standing with Laurence outside of his room.

“I… I do not know. I’m hoping Lord Aphmau is able to solve this.” 

Cadenza nodded, helped Laurence in his room, and shut the door behind them. Laurence approached the light coming from the window, the stairs and moon just hardly altering his vision with the torches, he tentatively put his fingers to glass just to be sure.

… At some point during their silence, Laurence felt it.

A warm-chill went up his spin, his hair stood on end, and he felt something along the lines of darkness run through his veins like a not-so gentle reminder what he was.

There was another one of them.

When Lord Aphmau stopped by he had inquired about it but she shied away from the question.

Didn’t matter, Laurence knew. And he could feel it… he could feel her. Just in the room over.

Was this going to become a thing now? Lord Aphmau rescuing Shadow Knights from their fate? Would… would that really be okay? 

Could it be done?

Laurence held himself as he turned back to the window. Was he even saved?

Chapter Text

... The day after Alexis’s curse had been made aware to most of the villagers. Laurence himself just couldn’t believe that kind of ritual was done on a child.

Especially with what he experienced during his transformation.

“Zoey,” Laurence felt his way along the wall into the room. Zoey had caught note of him by the sound of his voice and ushered to the door that he was surprised he managed to open. 

“Laurence!” She hissed out a whisper. “What is it? Is everything alright?”

He was made well aware of the rules that no one was to disturb Zoey’s room - which held Alexis, and a mourning mother - but this was too important.

“Yes, everything is fine… but I think you should know, since Alexis has been…” He lowered his voice now, unable to tell if Molly was listening. “Since she has been transformed into a ShadowKnight… if you wake her up now before removing the curse she could transform again and hurt herself… or someone else.”

Zoey was nodding, not that Laurence could see it. “So… it is best to find a cure first before anything.” 

“Yes.” Laurence confirmed. “If I knew how to undo a Shadow Knight transformation I would, but it is best to find a cure before anything else.”

“Ok… Thank you, Laurence. That was… very helpful” She frowned suddenly. “I do apologize,w e haven’t really gotten to know each other well enough at all with everything that has been happening.”

“Try not to worry.” Laurence smiled. “I’m sure once Alexis is better, we will have plenty of time for some normal conversations.”

“Hopefully.” Zoey said, delicately guiding Laurence back to his room, and the sound of her bedroom door shutting behind her.

At some point Zoey must’ve let it slip to Cadenza about his insistence on helping, because very frequently Cadenza would arrive - offering him walks around the village, helping with combing his hair again, even encouraging him to try eating by himself.

He hated the idea of anyone having to feed him, so he did his best but he could feel Cadenza’s eyes boring into him in a very unsettling way. 

“I’ll be back tomorrow!” Cadenza cooed that evening later. Finally ready to return to her home actually this time instead of coming back minutes later.

Except minutes later he heard the door open again after a careful knock or two. Weird, Cadenza doesn’t usually knock.

“I thought—” Laurence took a deep breath. Pine. “Garroth.” He exhaled.

He could hear the Guard smile in his words. “You are good.” He complimented. 

“Thank you, apologies, I thought you were my sister.” 

Garroth huffed out a laugh, shutting the door behind him. “I often forget you two are related. You both look much less alike now.”

“Well, we are both adopted.”

“I see,” Garroth mumbled before standing beside Laurence while he remained on his chair. “Do you want help getting to your bed?”

“No, I should keep practicing doing some stuff on my own. I’ve gotten better at smells and hearing people. These walls are either thin or I’m just that good.” Laurence chuckled quietly and he heard the rough voice of Garroth laughing too.

His voice was so deep, Laurence had originally thought he was at least forty. “Are you visiting?”

“Yes, I am taking a break on my patrol and letting Brian take over… that poor boy, with his sister… with Alexis becoming… falling ill, he is a mess and we already are down to two guards.” Garroth shook his head, absolutely exasperated. “Not to mention he wants a distraction rather than sitting there waiting for good news. So I am leaving him to burn off whatever anxiety he has… and I must look for more Guards for Phoenix Drop.”

“...” Laurence held back his thought on the tip of his tongue.

Until Garroth brought it up, “Do you think you will return to Meteli? One day?” 

“Trying to get rid of me already?” Laurence teased but Garroth spoke quickly. 

“Never.”

Laurence chose to ignore the way his heart squeezed in his chest over that. “... Maybe. I don’t know.” Laurence sighed.

“I had sent Raven to inform the two competing Lords of your absence, I had told them you were missing, then found, and now recovering at Phoenix Drop. I hadn’t heard back much from either of them. But both Hayden and Kenmur are sending their prayers.”

“How thoughtful.” Laurence muttered. “If I do decide to pick up my Guard duties again, I sincerely doubt it will be in Meteli.”

“Oh…? How so?” Garroth sat down on the windowsill, Laurence could tell because his silhouette was framed in the evening sun setting. 

“My village is a disaster, if your raven told you that there were two Lords it’s because they are both trying to claim power and have divided the village into two. No one likes people who want Hayden to be the Lord and vice-versa for Kenmur. If I go back… I’ll still be the community’s Head Guards, not a Lord’s. I…” Laurence closed his eyes. “Not that I would want to, after I failed my previous Lord, Jon.” 

“Laurence…”

“I was standing right next to him when he was assassinated, Garroth. An arrow through his chest and I just let it happen… I was right there and…” Laurence opened his eyes. “I didn’t see it in time.” 

Garroth was silent for a moment, if it wasn’t the sound of the Guard’s breathing, his heavy footsteps, nor his scent – any other blind person would have assumed Garroth left. But he stayed. “That is not your fault, it is very hard to stop an arrow from hitting someone. Believe me, I’ve been shot and so has another one of our villagers… I even failed my Lord too, the previous Lord of Phoenix Drop was murdered and I couldn’t save him in time.”

There was silence before Laurence chuckled apathetically, “Yeah… I was just about to say that wasn’t your fault either.”

Garroth grinned. “It is much more difficult to not blame yourself than to cheer up a fellow Guard.” 

“I guess you’re right.” Laurence sighed. 

That should’ve been the end of their conversation but; “Laurence, please, let me know if you wish to become a Guard again… there has… been some changes since you went missing when it comes to… new rules being added.”

“How do you mean?”

Garroth waited a bit, keeping Laurence quite literally on the edge of his seat until, “It was decided should a Guard be… tempted by the Shadow Lord, tempted to murder their Lord, they must swear to take their own life.” 

Silence once again consumed the room as Laurence deciphered this. “... I suppose I’m the reason this new rule has been imposed?”

“Laurence, I didn’t—”

“No. No I get it, Garroth… the only thing keeping me alive is the fact that right now I am not a Guard.”

“That isnt’t o say the second you change your mind you must kill yourself.” Garroth stood up. “It is only if you are tempted – not that you once were, that if when you become a Guard again should something happen—”

“I get it.”

“But do you?” Garroth raised his voice. “This wans’t… this wasn’t a personal matter, it is strictly in the interest of our Lords whom we have sworn our lives to. This was not something to target you personally - had it been me I would have—”

Laurence stood up now too, “But it wasn’t you Garroth, and I get that. I understand.” He breathed. “Whether we admit it aloud to one another or not we both care deeply about Lord Aphmau that we are willing to make sacrifices for her. I understand, again.” Laurnece groaned into his hands as he dragged them along his face. “Thank you for telling me, I have things to think about now.”

“... Laurence—”

“I know, Garroth. I know it wasn’t personal. Thank you… thank you for looking out. You can leave now.”

He heard Garroth’s footsteps walk off as he did what he was told. 

. . .   The next day had given Laurence a different perspective about this whole rule and Guard thing.

If they get very technical about the rule, Laurence should be able to become a Guard again but if he should transform into a full-Shadow Knight he would have to kill himself before he kills Lord Aphmau… 

As he was lost in thought– Lavender, Aphmau, approached him. “I’m in front of a window.” He observed, not really. “I can tell… it’s cooler and the sun shines on my face.” Something he ever so dearly missed. 

“That is impressive.” Lord Aphmau praised.

“Cadenza has been watching over me.” He informed. “She even set up this little area for me. I think she decorated it, but I am unable to tell. I only know the area feels a little more full than yesterday. By the way… becoming blind has kind of increased my other senses.”

“Oh yeah? Is that how you’re able to tell it was me when I walked in.”

“Yes, do you want to know what your scent is?”

He heard Aphmau roll her eyes and she lightly hit him. “Hey! I mean it! I’m not gonna say you smell bad, I’m a lot nicer than you are.”

“Ha ha. Okay, Laurence. What is my signature scent?”

“Lavender.” He answered honestly and Lord Aphmau made a ‘mmh’ noise.

“That’s… really nice, Laurence.”

“It is… anyway, because my senses have been increased I can hear what’s going on in that room with Alexis. I don’t know anything about people becoming Shadow Knights who weren’t Guards in their mortal lives, or didn’t perish with great anger… So this is new to me, but if I remember any more important details from my experience that I haven’t shared with Zoey, I will help where I can. Until then, I’ll smile for Alexis.” 

Without much warning, Lord Aphmau wrapped her arms around Laurence in a tight embrace, which he quickly returned.

“Thank you.” She whispered before taking her leave.

… Garroth had woken up that morning feeling awful from the previous nights. He hardly even slept, the only reason he had gotten shut-eye was from Brian demanding to take over the nightly patrol and he wouldn’t take no for an answer.

Garroth felt guilty for the poor boy’s sleepless nights and ever-growing stress. It was all Garroth’s fault after all. Had he had just left with Zane and not let his feelings for Lord Aphmau take over - Alexis would still be a baby girl and Brian would still be a proud older brother instead of looking like he was the one who aged ten years overnight. 

Not to mention why he thought telling Laurence of the new Guard rules was a good idea – the man was still getting used to being a Shadow Knight and being blind. The last thing his dear friend needed was another restriction to the life he had previously lived.

Damn himself, Garroth cursed himself. He was such a fool, such a pathetic soul as to believe he could really protect his village, his friends, Lord Aphmau… Laurence…

Not a Lord and not a Guard, then what could he possibly be used for?

The last two nights were filled with terrors and very little sleep. And he couldn’t get up to patrol and try to avoid Brian either. He had spent most of the night thinking of his failures and his conversation with Laurence.

The nightmares were worse.

Instead of Alexis, it was Kyle, instead of Kyle it was Levin, instead of just one of the children it was all of them… he dreams of that necklace. If instead Zane had given it to Lord Aphmau, would she have transformed? Would she had perished? What would Laurence think if Garroth had allowed that to happen?  How could he have been so stupid? Zane bringing gifts? He should have guessed they were cursed.

One nightmare in particular stood out, that night when Zane had threatened to destroy Laurence – Garroth had had a night terror that Laurence had turned  back into a full-blown Shadow Knight, slaughtered Lord Aphmau and then Zane commanded him like a puppet to murder Garroth next, slowly and intimately while the Priest watched. 

Thinking about it now sent shivers down Garroth's spine and caused his stomach to churn. So much anxiety in just a few short days, and with close to no sleep all on his plate - he had hoped to wake up to good news.

When he saw Raven flying overhead he eagerly met his wyvern at the docks of Phoenix Drop only to receive a letter.

“I would not take offense if you did not read it, if you chose to send it back.” Raven had said.

Garroth looked down at the sender and gasped. “Do what you will, but be wise.” 

Just after he read the name on the letter, Lord Aphmau approached from behind. 

“Garroth? You do not have your weapons, is everything alright?”

He had been so happy to see Raven he had left them at the guard’s tower. “I… I received a letter from Raven.”

“What does it say?”

“It’s from Zane.” Lord Aphmau gasped as well. “I do not want to read it… today was supposed to be the day I return with him to Scaleswind… do… Do you want to read it?” He held out the letter for her to take.

He worried if he read it he would not be able to control the anger that overcame him, or worse, he feared there was another threat in there that would make Garroth act quickly and irrationally. 

“Sure, let me see it.” Lord Aphmau took the letter and in one quick movement of her hand, opened it easily. “Would you like me to read it aloud?”

“I… if you must.”

Lord Aphmau cleared her voice, reading the content in a monotone voice; 

“Dearest brother,

So sorry I had to leave urgently, some official business that happened to be more important than your Marriage Treaty came up from the High Council in O’Khasis. I was summoned home.

It disgusts me to inform you that your engagement has been put on hold, temporarily, due to more urgent matters. 

However, do not think you will be getting out of this. I am going to hold your vows to the daughter of Scaleswind over your head, until then, enjoy your life while it is just yours.”

“I’m free?! Thank goodness! This gives us more time to figure something else out!” Without thinking he quickly took Lord Aphmau in a tight embrace before pulling away. “Is that all he wrote?”

Aphmau had returned his hug tightly, smiling before she suddenly frowned at his question, and shook her head. “No, there is more…”

“I wanted to thank you and Lord Aphmau personally for the hospitality while I stayed in the village of Phoenix Drop. I do not have any hard feelings regarding the incident with the peasant's daughter Alexis. But you are smart, and you have magick users, you’ll figure it out.

Please, also inform Laurence I intend to send a personal gift to him at some point when I have the time and materials. It should assist him with his blindness, and neither of you will have to see to him ever again.

Sincerely, High Priest of O’Khasis, Zane.”

Garroth had cherished the moment of sweet ignorant bliss he had before he asked the question that ruined it. He would have been more than happy to just know he didn’t have to marry the daughter of Scaleswind right away and they had time… but the threat his brother made to Laurence suddenly made Garroth feel faint.

“Wh…what does that mean?”

“I don’t know.” Lord Aphmau muttered, folding the letter back up. “There’s a lot to this… especially… why would he… write about Laurence?”

“He clearly wants revenge, Laurence has been the only man I’ve seen make Zane nervous before like that… we must keep an eye on Laurence, or at least if anyone has anything to give him that is. I do not want another… necklace situation.”

“You’re right… Zoey is busy with Alexis, but Cadenza has been visiting him everyday, if you speak to her about your concerns I’m sure she’s happy to keep watch over him.” Lord Aphmau explained with an easy smile and Garroth felt bad for being… disappointed. It’snot that he doesn’t trust Cadenza, absolutely he does, but… he’d feel better if he was the one by Laurence’s side. “Say, Garroth, where is Raven? I need to speak with him about something.”

Garroth tilted his head. “Raven and the other Wyverns should be in their cave near-by… you can visit them anytime. However, if they are sleeping I’d advise a different time.”

Lord Aphmau nodded, “Right. Thank you for your help, keep on your toes.”“And you as well.” 

… At some point, Garroth had escorted Cadenza later in the day to see Laurence. She was carrying a beautiful flowy blue dress with her that she explained was for Alexis.

Garroth praised her highly for doing such a task in such a short amount of time, Lord Aphmau was off with the wyverns doing Gods know what to the village that involved them, but Garroth just wanted to check on Laurence since yesterday. 

He knocked and waited a few seconds before entering, Laurence sat upright in his bed, looking straight ahead before his expression shifted into something unreadable. “Garroth.”

“Please, allow me a chance to apologize.”

“Garroth—”

“Not for the reason you think. I…I  shouldn’t have told you all of that during your recovery. You are unsure where you stand at this moment in your life and me telling you the new expectations for the Lord’s Guards should have waited longer when you knew when you were confident that you could continue that line of work, or if you had quit it entirely perhaps I wouldn’t have said anything. I…I’m sorry for rushing you, is what I mean… I suppose.” 

“It’s fine, Garroth. I already said I appreciate you being honest with me, and I know it was nothing personal… It was the smart thing to do, and the right thing. Neither of us want any harm to come to Lord Aphmau and I can see how any loyal Guard would agree to the same terms. This won’t affect my decision should I stay a guard.” 

“... I’m still sorry.”

Laurence ‘tsk’ed out a laugh. “Okay, Garroth… what is Lord Aphmau up to? I heard her down here earlier grabbing materials.”

“Oh, I’m unsure… if she was grabbing her materials she could be attempting to clean up the black mass in the village.”

Laurence frowned. “By herself. That could be dangerous.” 

“I’ll keep watch tonight, should anything happen. You have my word.”

Laurence’s smile twitched. “Thank you…” 

“Are you alright?”

“Yeah.” Laurence sighed. “It just feels like ever since I… came back… things have been not so incredible around here…” Garroth opened his mouth to say something but Laurence quickly added: “But I know we all promised to keep smiling for Alexis, for Molly, so that’s what I’ll do.”

“When Alexis wakes up,” Garroth began, because he had to convince himself too. Alexis will wake up, and she will be fine. “We… we may take a break from smiling, if you truly… if it is truly too much to pretend, at the moment.” 

Laurence stared at Garroth silently before adjusting himself in his bed. “I’ll offer you the same, then… Garroth?”

“Yes?”

“Get some rest, tonight. You don’t have to watch over Lord Aphmau, Brian sounds like he’s doing that already. Not to mention I trust her not to do anything irrational… you just… you sound tired.” 

Garroth swallowed, turning his gaze downcast to the floor. “... I will do what I can. Goodnight, Laurence. Sleep well.”

“You too.” 

. . . When Laurence opened his eyes the next morning… he nearly had a panic attack.

He thought he was dreaming, he thought this wasn’t real, he thought he was dead.

Anything. Anything to explain how the hell he woke up this morning and was… was able to see. 

But it couldn’t be a dream, because ever since he lost his vision he couldn’t see his nightmares anymore.

It had to be some kind of trick, Laurence turned onto his side and shut his eyes again. Then opened them. Then shut them tighter, for longer, and then opened his eyes again.

 He sat up slowly and looked around the room. 

Looking, because he could actually see. The room was entirely brown through and through with the oak wood on the walls and ceilings. The comforter of his bed with a delicate blue and the wood structure around it to keep it lofted was a more red shade of brown than the walls and floor.

What had Laurence nearly in tears was looking out the window. He couldn’t bring himself to move, so scared that this dream would come to an end the second he should step foot off his bed. He could see outside. He could see the window Cadenza had adorned with roses and cobblestone fixtures to make it nice. He could see the blue sky, the green grass, and the yellow sun. He blinked back the spots in his vision from looking at the sun for a few moments but by the Gods he could see. 

Laurence quickly began to tremble, wet tears spilling down either side of his cheeks as he could hardly catch his breath from the sights he was now seeing. 

“Laurence?” Lord Aphmau called stepping into the room, on instinct he didn’t yet turn to address her. Kind of pacing himself… would he be just as overwhelmed again to see her beauty? “Are you doing okay? I see you moved from your window–” But she stopped speaking the second she made eye contact.  “What happened to your eyes?” She asked quickly in a panicked tone, her hand instantly reaching up as she began to wipe away the tears Laurence forgot were staining his face. “Can…” Her voice quivered next, and Laurence could see the drastic shift in emotion from analytical, to concern, to panic, then to hope. “Can you see…?”

“I…” Laurence blinked. The world was still there. “Aph- Aphmau I can… I can see. H- how is this…. How is this possible?” He begged, now looking directly at her pupils.

Oh how he missed this. Her beautiful round face that was so full of life and youth – her dark raven hair that fell straight behind her back like an ethereal cape.

And her eyes.

She still stunk of Lavender, but now he could really see her.

“Just… just this morning…” Laurence looked around the room again, really moving his head. “I… I just want to lay down for a moment more… Who knows? This might just be a temporary thing… but…” 

“Yes,” Lord Aphmau breathed but not being able to hide the absolute excitement covering her face. “Please, rest, but I will be back to check on you later.” 

“Thank you… this… this is amazing.” Laurence laughed, brushing his evergrowing tears away at the same time as Aphmau reached up to do it again. “It feels so good to see your beautiful face again. You look even more lovely than the last time I saw you…” 

Lord Aphmau smiled at him, her brows furrowing at such high praise so quickly. “Just rest for now, Laurence.” She retracted her hand, slowly and carefully. 

“You’re right… I- I’m sorry… I’ll rest and… hopefully I’ll be able to see later.” 

This time he was able to see Lord Aphmau leave the room, stealing a glance back at him with a wide toothy grin, before carefully shutting the door. 

… Garroth had seen with his own eyes the magnificent blessing of the Lady Irene statue and ensemble Brian, his wolf, and even the Doctor to assist with mining the diamonds that covered nearly the entire village out of the ground. 

He had never particularly been a religious man, especially considering his brother’s role as a Priest, but to see this kind of magic displayed with your very own eyes can certainly shift your perspective.

All of the darkness that had coated the village was entirely gone - and Garroth was so busy with gathering resources, he wasn’t particularly thinking of what kind of blessing this could have also bestowed upon Alexis. 

“Lord Aphmau!” He greeted her merrily as she approached - just finishing praying with Molly at the statue. “This is such a blessing… all these diamonds… we can do so much towards improving the village!” 

“How do you mean?” She tilted her head playfully, smiling. 

“We can get more guards to help protect the village!” He had previously and in passing brough this up to Lord Aphmau, but now that things were finally looking up, it was more important to share his feelings on the matter. “Perhaps they will grow attached to our wealth and become citizens. We can also hire a band of traveling carpenters to help build our village and our defenses… What do you think?”

Lord Aphmau grinned, briefly grabbing his hand. “I think that is a wonderful idea, Garroth.” 

“Great!” When she removed her hand, he noticed just the tiniest crack in her upbeat facade. He wondered what she was praying for. “Is there something on your mind, my Lord?” 

“I… yes.” Lord Aphmau took a deep breath. “Kiki has fallen ill and is taking up refuge in her barn… but at a very inopportune time. One of the werewolves I had connected with that resides near the village of Brightport needs her animal expertise and assistance to prevent a war between two tribes from breaking out… she has asked me if I would go with her, in case she cannot make the journey herself..” 

“I see…” Garroth pondered shortly. It is not as if they gravely needed Lord Aphmau here. After all, she quite literally has done all she can do in this moment with helping the village and Alexis. It wouldn’t be so difficult to send out a desire for guards or carpenters himself… he’d just have to find more hands like Brendan’s to assist with mining since Dale is with his daughter. And Cadenza is still keeping Laurence plenty company… Perhaps Brendan and Zoey would be willing to have Cadenza watch over both Levin and Laurence? Or would that be too much?

Kawaii~Chan should also be able to assist with either Alexis’s case or Levin. He will have to ask… “Lord Aphmau, if you need to take Kiki to the wolf tribe, then by all means, please do. Kiki is a citizen here and if she needs our help we can definitely do that. I will keep watch over the village while you are gone, and Levin. If anything happens I’ll have Raven send you a message, okay?” 

He felt great pride in watching her shoulders fall in relief. “Thank you, sounds like a plan.”

“Wonderful! While you are gone, I will find ways to improve the village. I’m sure with the statue of Lady Irene here people may think twice before they try to mess with us. When I get a moment, I will send some supplies to the docks for your journey tomorrow. Take care, Lady Aphmau.” 

The Lord looked like she had one more thought come across her mind, but left to mine a few diamonds near the Doctor before Garroth could pry about it. Mattes not, at the moment. 

He will have his hands full, he will speak with both Brendan and Kawaii~Chan about babysitting Levin, hopefully the cat-witch will not be tempted to overload him with too much sugar. It will be temporary until either Alexis is cured or until they have more hands available to assist with guarding. Brendan will just be a helping hand for the diamonds. Garroth had already felt guilty about asking the Doctor for help – though he seemed eager to do so once he saw his niece’s house and picked up a pickaxe. 

As for Cadenza, he is positive she still watches over Laurence at the moment...

Chapter Text

… As the day went on, Laurence couldn’t rest. He couldn’t be bothered. He was staring out the window of his room like he had been for the last few days but it was different now that he could really see it. Outside the waves of the ocean moved by the docks, he could see the colors of the birds that would sing by his window. 

And he was waiting.

Waiting for it all to go dark again, waiting for the colors and light to dissipate til there was something but fog and fuzz left. 

But the longer he waited, the more it didn’t happen

He heard his door open, he smelt his sister before he saw her. Oh good. Could he… would see her?

“Laurence, I just wa–” She spoke, stepping into the room but paused as Laurence couldn't restrain himself anything further and sat, turning to look directly at her.

She stopped in her tracks, her mouth opened and hanging low in utter disbelief.

He wondered… Typically when people were blind  their eyes would look either grey or glossed over - and they definitely couldn’t look anyone in the eye, at least not intentionally, so was that the give away? Or had something else changed…? Were his eyes… no… no they couldn't be red- they couldn’t— 

“Laurence,” Cadenza's voice shook as she blinked tears into her eyes. “Can… Can you see me?” 

He couldn’t stop the wetness from overtaking his eyes as he just laughed, rushing out of bed and when Cadenza met him half-way into his room he laughed loudly grabbing her by the waist and lifting her up into the air while she grabbed his shoulders. He spun her around before lowering her and embracing his dearest sister tightly, a hug she returned with strength tenfold. 

Eventually the two pulled away from each other and Laurence really looked at her for the first time again. Her brilliant blue eyes were still conjuring tears that she was laughing through and her cheeks were full of life and tinted bred from the sobbing.

Her hair, as Laurence had joked before, still looked like a mighty flame from a deep rich orange to a beautiful yellow fade. Her dress was magnificent and clinged to body in a puffy yet elegant way, a nice pastel cyan. 

Oh god, how he needed a mirror.

No.

No he needed something– someone else – too. 

“You can see.” She whispered and Laurence accurately wiped her tears from her face.

“I can.”

“It’s a miracle.”

“It is.” Laurence laughed, Cadenza in turn wiping away his tears. “I… I’ve been able to since just this morning and… and so far it isn’t temporary. I want to see everything, I want to see everyone… I…” Laurence paused. “I need to see Garroth.”

Cadenza blinked in surprise. “Garroth? Hm,” Cadenza thought. “I think he is still in the plaza collecting the diamonds…” Laurence’s brow furrowed in confusion. “With the Lady Irene statue sending a blessing throughout Phoenix Drop, it got rid of the blackened Earth and replaced the corruption with riches instead. Maybe that’s what she did for you.”

Laurence chuckled. “Well, I’m not entirely sure about that but… okay. Let’s go to the Plaza.” 

Cadenza instinctively took his hand, which he didn’t mind, and led the way outside of Lord Aphmau’s house.

Which he was just now realizing was very.. Very purple. 

They had chosen not to disturb Laurence’s neighbors, Zoey, for they were still busy with Alexis.

The second Laurence stepped outside he had to compose himself all over again.

Phoenix Drop was a beautiful village, he had seen it once before but even more so now he could tell it had changed but still stood tall and proud. There was a playground beside Lord Aphmau’s house.

“Is that for…?”

“Oh my gosh, you haven't met Levin yet! Aphmau’s son!”

“I haven’t…” 

“Oh we should definitely go–” Cadenza caught herself. “After we see Garroth, we should go visit Levin.”

“Sounds like a plan to me.”

Cadenza had at some point let go of Laurence’s hand as they ventured down the steps of the Lord’s house. Laurence occasionally stopped to look around and actually see the houses and the animals, the scents were still strong due to his eyes being out of commission for a while, but it was still so… refreshing… 

Laurence felt his stomach churn as they arrived at the plaza. He was unsure if Garroth would even recognize him, he surely will – he recognized him at the party but… why would it be different? And to see Garroth of all people… Laurence couldn’t pick up why he was excited to see his reaction most of all. 

Laurence stepped into the plaza and just could only stare at all the diamonds. Phoenix Drop could arguably become a powerhouse with this kind of riches, even Cadenza gasped upon seeing it all again. 

What had caught Laurecne’s attention, besides the magnificent saxes of the diamonds, was Garroth raising a pickaxe over his head to collect the ones from the pile he stood on top of. 

Cadenza was staring holes into the side of his head, waiting for him to react. Laurence was so caught up in the rhythmic and kind of impressive act he nearly forgot.

“Garroth!” He shouted, cupping his hands over his mouth.

Garroth snapped his head up to attention immediately - doing a double take at the sight of Laurence.

… Garroth couldn’t stop the gasp that escaped his lips, nor his jaw hitting the floor. 

Laurence… when he had gone blind it was obvious by his eyes. Entirely lost of their once beautiful color and glossed over like he was unfocused, he pupils were even a pale white that were dazed.

But when Garroth looked at Laurence now, he stood tall with a huge grin as he lowered his hands from his mouth, his short pale-brown hair shifting in the ever so subtle wind, and his eyes… the incredible emerald green color that they once were staring into Garroth like they were eagerly seeing a dear close friend after such a long time.

And technically, they were. 

His hands went slack and dropped the pickaxe with a light ‘tink’ into the diamonds. “... Laurence!” 

He climbed out of the diamonds only to nearly stumble back into them without warning and forgetting just how fast a Guard can really move– Laurence had thrown himself head-first into Garroth’s arms and wrapped his arms tightly around the man’s frame, cackling. 

Garroth fumbled backwards before acknowledging what was happening and trying to quickly return the gesture, holding Laurence tightly. 

“You can see…” Garroth breathed. “How… How did this happen?!”

Just as Laurence answered, Garroth’s gaze met the statue of Lady Irene… and Cadenza and Molly who were watching with somewhat knowing looks. “Theories are pointing to this blessing that turned your village into a gold-mine… or I guess a diamond-mine.” 

Beneath Laurence’s arms he felt Garroth’s shoulder shake as he let out a low rumble of laughter. “... And how are you feeling?”

“Great.” Laurence pulled back, much to the Guard’s disappointment. “I’ve been feeling pretty good, the only reason I was kept up in my room all the way was because of my condition… but now that I can see, I kind of wanna be out here all day.”

Garroth smiled, “... What else have you gotten to see?”

“Not much,” Laurence stole a glance back at Cadenza who didn’t bother to pretend like she hadn’t been staring at the two - who were still technically holding each other - “Cadenza said she wanted to introduce me to Levin.” 

Garroth’s eyes went wide. “Yes! You must meet Lord Aphmau’s son! Here, let me go with you. I need to steal Brendan for some assistance with the diamonds.”

As Laurence finally physically let go of Garroth and they began to walk he asked, “Anything I can do to help?”

“Ha ha.” Garroth deadpanned. “Nice try, until you receive a perfect report from the Doctor, you will not be straining yourself with any heavy lifting. Besides,” Garroth grinned as they exited the plaza. “Babysitting will be helping plenty while I borrow Brendan.” 

“Aw man,” Laurence sighed. “Well, actually there is another thing I hadn’t gotten to see.” 

“Oh?” 

Laurence knocked on Garroth’s helmet and the Guard suddenly realized what he meant. “Oh… oh that’s right.”

“Oh good, seems like you remember our deal.” Laurence grinned evilly. “Now. Get rid of it.” 

“I…” Garroth put his hands to his helmet almost protectively. “I forgot about that.”

“Come on Garroth,” Laurence’s voice suddenly grew softer and his brows furrowed in a mix of concern and disappointment. “I promise you won’t be targeted for anything… especially considering Zane is gone. There’s no reason to keep it on.” 

Garroth sighed. “I know… I know and you are correct.” 

“But if you’re not ready–”

Before Laurence could backtrack, realizing he had probably come off as too forceful, in a quick and easy movement Garroth had taken off his helmet and Laurence grew breathless. 

Garroth’s hair was a little flatter, probably from the helmet being on it all day the sweat caused some of his curls to cling to his forehead but it was still as delicate and as blonde as ever. He still had his beard, but it looked tamer like Garroth had actually decided to trim it and keep it in check. Laurence was a little glad he hadn’t sliced it off. 

As for his eyes, a dark royal blue that met Laurence’s gaze with something of meek confidence. 

There was something else though that caught Laurence’s attention – Garroth’s eyebags. They were a slight discoloration of his peach skin but by the Gods were they clear as the suns shining on his face. Garroth looked like he had slept, properly at least, in days… he looked… so tired. 

But Laurence didn’t say that. 

“You look great.” Laurence said instantly and was relieved to see Garroth smile and scoff. 

“You do not have to say that.”

“I mean it, not, ditch it.” Garroth frowned suddenly before looking down at his helmet and tossing it aside.

Laurence grinned and without thinking brushed some of the hair from Garroth’s face. Both of their cheeks turned the same shade of red.
That little action caused the two to freeze suddenly. Both staring at Laurence’s hand like it might do something without permission again. Laurence quickly put his hand down. “So! Where’s Levin?”

…  At some point that morning, Laurence was outside Lord Aphmau’s house sitting in the play-area with Levin. 

Yesterday, Garroth had introduced Laurence formally to both Brendan and Kawaii~Chan, explaining how Laurence is plenty trustworthy with watching over Levin…

And then Garroth had a look on his face like he remembered something very, gravely, important. Laurence had a feeling he knew exactly what it was as Garroth quickly tacked on—  but Cadenza will also be there just in case.
 

He had taken Brendan to the plaza with him and left Cadenza, Laurence, Kawaii~Chan, and Levin alone - getting to know Laurence more personally while also Laurence got to hear some stories about little baby Levin and his mother from her people.

At a later point(the same morning),  Garroth approached Lord Aphmau’s house just as she was leaving, for his report. He stole a glance at Laurence, who met his eyes and smiled, Garroth decided to approach. 

“And how are you two this fine morning?”

“Lord Aphmau’s son is absolutely precious,” Laurence laughed. “It’s kinda weird he looks like you, just a little.”

Garroth looked back down at Levin then at Laurence. “I cannot say I know why that is.”

“Hm.” Laurence hummed then shrugged. “Oh! I have a favor to ask of you, and I will speak with Lord Aphmau about a similar thing later but… are you able to run a message for me to Meteli? I would go there myself and tell them but I fear if I do I’ll never leave.” Laurence smiled sadly.

“Of course, I can have a letter sent out, what is it?”

“I’m choosing to resign my position as Head Guard of Meteli in order to take up permanent residence here.”

Garroth’s eyes widened in surprise, Laurence eyed him and Garroth remembered his face was… visible now. “I see… are you sure you’re ready to leave Meteli behind?”

Laurnece huffed out a laugh. “Oh I’m sure… is… is that alright? Am I allowed to stay here?”

Garroth wanted nothing more, he realized, than for Laurence to stay. But… “Of course that is perfectly fine with me, but please inform Lord Aphmau of this decision as well, for she is the one with the final say… you will have to speak with her first, today she is leaving for the Wolf Tribe with one of our residents. I will have Raven deliver this message at once.” 

“Understood… thanks, Garroth.” 

Their conversation could’ve lingered on but he heard Lord Aphmau’s door open and Garroth turned his attention back to his Lord.

 “Lord Aphmau, good morning!”

“Garroth…!” She sized him up briefly, staring at him now in his obvious blue eyes. “Good morning! You look well!” She replied just as cheerfully. Her eyes briefly caught sight of Laurence and Levin together with Cadenza hovering nearby.

“Glad to see you are doing well, too” He was thankful she didn’t point out the lack of his head-gear vocally, nor obviously. There was… still some getting used to. He was doing it for Laurence after all… “Kiki is at the docks waiting for you, along with a few supplies I’ve left for your journey. I realized it has been a while since you’ve had a boat so I left a helm for you to create a new one… I pray you were not attached to your old boat that you find this offensive.” 

“Not at all!”

“Good. Lord Aphmau, before you go there is… someone I wish to speak with you about.”

“... Yes?”

“It’s Laurence.” Garroth frowned, briefly stealing a gaze back at the man before ushering his Lord a little farther away. “I was perfectly fine and content with Laurence in the village, and especially your home, due to this lack of sight… but…” Garroth sighed, his conflict now easily seen on his face. “We cannot forget he is still a Shadow Knight who has… yet to… who has yet to kill a Lord to obtain immortality… I do not fear your safety with him, as he has proved time and time again to be trustworthy, and I assume you have been alone with him with his vision but… I do not know what I’m… forgive me, I do not know what I’m trying to say.” 

Instead of reacting with confusion or utter seriousness that Laurence is capable of transforming into a demon – Lord Aphmau grinned and tilted her head playfully, getting unreasonably closer to Garroth. “Are you jealous because he’s my pretend fiancé?” 

Garroth couldn’t rely on his helmet anymore to protect the blush covering his face.  “Wh- what?! Not at all!” He shouted a little too loudly. “I even forgot that was a thing… Do you think Zane will hold you to that?”

Lord Aphmau got her fits of laughter before sighing. “No Garroth, calm down.”

“.. Right. What I'm trying to say is I like Laurence,” Garroth’s eyes widened before he quickly talked on; “As- as a person! I like Laurnece as a person, a  good person he is! And a Guard on the same level of power and respect as myself. Which makes him a valuable asset to the protection of Phoenix Drop… I just… the transformation he underwent is keeping me on my toes. That is all. I’m fine with him staying in Phoenix Drop since he had recently decided to renounce his position as head guard of Meteli. I have sent Raven to deliver the news as of this morning… I just…” Garroth exhaled sharply, shaking his head. “I have no clue what is troubling me.” 

“It is because he can see where he aims his sword…?” Lord Aphmau’s voice trailed off, her eyes moving towards Laurence who was still contently paying attention to Levin. 

Garroth wasn’t sure if they were silent enough for Laurence not to overhear… with his blindness he was aware Laurence was getting much better at his other senses… “I… I suppose?” Garroth shrugged, considering her words. “It was like having a lion without teeth, the worst he could do was gum you to death… but now that lion has its teeth back…” Garroth didn’t want to believe his next words. “That… scares me… Laurence could very well rival me in physical strength…what happens if I fail to protect everyone while you’re gone?” 

“Garroth,” Lord Aphmau sighed, smiling tiredly. “Would it help if I speak with him?” 

“I… I suppose that would assist the situation… good luck.” 

Lord Aphmau approached Laurence with newfound gusto as Garroth tried not to make it obvious he was watching… with his helmet that’d be easier but… Laurence had made a deal with Garroth that once he got his sight back, the Guard would take off his helmet – unless he really needed it. 

… “Lord Aphmau!” Laurence looked up and greeted the Lord like he hadn’t been eavesdropping on her conversation with Garroth.

He heard bits and pieces but the one thing that was as audible as his flustered shouting was that Garroth was nervous… or rather, scared around Laurence with him being a Shadow Knight. Though he seemed to have no issue with letting Laurence near Levin, there was a hesitancy that Garroth had - an insecurity - when he came to his strength.

It broke Laurence’s heart that Garroth didn’t trust him.

He… he wasn’t sure why that was so damaging to him… hm.

“So great to see you! I didn’t know you had a rambunctious scamp like Levin here. He’s very smart and very handsome! I can tell he’s going to be a heartbreaker when he grows up, like me.” Laurence smirked playfully. 

“Hah!” Lord Aphmau spoke loudly, teasingly, causing Levin to look up at them with a start. “Right! Because you’re just drowning in ladies from right!” 

“Hey! Haha, no fair!” Laurence chuckled. “I just got my vision back. You could at least go along with my joke for my feelings!” Laurence sighed, rolling his shoulder as he tried to lean in as casually into the next part of this conversation as he could. “So… Garroth tells me you’re going to the Wolf Tribe Village for a few days… give or take.”

“Yes I am, speaking of actually… about Garroth…” Lord Aphmau stole a glance back at the guard before turning to Laurence. “I’m hoping he’s been accommodating and polite but he has shared with me he feels a little nervous about… a few things regarding you turning into a Shadow Knight.”

“... Yeah, I get it.” Laurence really, really this time, tried to ignore the ache in his chest at that. “Garroth is trying to say he’s afraid I’ll turn into a monster against my will and hurt you or the village… I know he’s not trying to offend me and I can understand where the distrust is coming from… hell, if our roles were swapped, Gods forfend, I’d be hesitant around him too… but…” Laurence shook his head, “Do you think he’s trying to come between our marriage?” Laurence laughs. 

“He might be,” Lord Aphmau, thankfully picked up on his hesitancy to continue the subject, and joked along with him. “He is insanely jealous!”

Laurence stood upright, shouting - not too loudly - “I knew it! I’ll change him to fist-to-cuffs for your love!” He couldn’t stop grinning as Aphmau leaned somewhat into him, trying to settle her laughter. “Oh it is so good to feel like myself again…” Laurence sighed, still smiling. “Of course I know our "wedding" was just a ruse, don’t worry. I just… it’s so good to laugh about it, and to laugh again, you know? If… If Garroth really is hesitant about me staying, which he has already said I’m okay to stay but… I just… I can leave this village, to protect it. It's just… nice having a place to call home, y’know?” 

Lord Aphmau’s giddy smile turned into a bittersweet one at his words. “Laurence, you can stay however long you want… but… if you feel… evil–”

“That was always the plan – to leave if I feel corrupt, I mean… I would never willingly put you or your people in danger. I just… I feel there’s so much I can do - I want to do for your village. Especially after Zane… I do not like him Lord Aphamu, there’s… there’s something about him that feels familiar, but I cannot place it…” 

“He’s gone now, Laurence. Let us focus on what we need to do.”

“Agreed. I’ll work with Garroth… if he lets me,” Laurence laughed. Lord Aphmau tilted her head with a confused expression but it’d be too much to explain how Garroth refused to let him help build until the doctor has seen to him. “And see what I can to help the village. If he asks me to leave however at any given time I will respect his wishes. Please be safe on your journey, Lord Aphmau… we wouldn’t know what to do if something were to–” Laurence caught himself, his disorder appearing clear on his face, he wasn’t sure what had suddenly spiraled down the idea of Aphmau dying on this trip, but– “I know you can handle yourself, see you soon.”

Lord Aphamu just nodded, briefly embracing Laurence as a good-bye, tightly, before letting go and venturing off down the mountain. 

Not long after Lord Aphmau left, Laurence had asked Cadenza to watch over Levin briefly. “I need to speak with Garroth… the fast that Doctor can give me a clean slip of health, the faster I can start helping the village rather than just babysitting…I can also tell he doesn’t trust me with Levin alone, so maybe he’ll trust you.”

Cadenza frowned. “Laurence… of course Garroth trusts you with Levin. Otherwise he wouldn’t even suggested you be near him, you were even permitted to hold him.”

“Yeah yeah…” Laurence sighed, looking briefly at Levin. “... I’m still going to speak with Garroth, please watch Levin for me?”

Cadenza smirked sadly. “Of course. I know you’d much rather be a part of the action anyway than stuck doing nothing.”

“You know me much too well.” 

Laurence found Garroth once again by the plaza, most of the diamonds have all been mined up, now it was a matter of replacing the cobblestone floors and some of the houses. 

“Garroth!” Laurence called out to him again, he was ordering Brian, Brendan, Corey, and the Doctor about – Brendan and Corey had pickaxes in hand and seemed to be ready to venture into the neighboring mines. 

“Ah, Laurence.” Garroth met him halfway across the plaza. “Can I help you?”

“I was actually hoping to help you,” Laurenced smirked as Garroth frowned.

“Laurence, I told you already–”

“Look, we needed to talk about this anyway, but the doctor is right there. Garroth briefly looked back at the doctor then back at Laurence.  “If you really don’t trust me because I’m a Shadow Knight then just say so and stop wasting both of our time.”

Laurence was a little surprised with just who hurt Garroth seemed by his words, quickly he put his hands on Laurence’s shoulders. “Laurence I had already told you I want you to stay. You are a valuable asset to Phoenix Drop, you have saved Aphmau's life twice now and you are gentle with her son– I trust you completely.” Garroth’s grip tightened on Laurence as his words grew more passionate. “You being a Shadow Knight does not change how I feel about you I… I just fear with recent events that if you were to fully transform I would not be able to protect those around us… but I know you’re strong. I count on you to stay in control, and I trust you to handle yourself should you feel tempted by dark forces… but Laurence, I cannot emphasize enough how dearly I want you to stay.” 

“... You really think you can trust me?”

“The only way to know for sure is if you stay here with us.” 

Laurence felt his shoulders relax under Garroth’s grip and they quickly grew cold once he removed his hands, Garroth approached the Doctor, speaking with him briefly before waving Laurence over.

“This is Dr… Doctor. I have asked him to do a full assessment to make sure you are as healthy as possible to begin working, I do not want you to overdo anything, understood?”

“Got it…. Uhm… does he–”

“I have been made well aware that you are a Shadow Knight. That shouldn’t change anything with my results, and Sir Garroth here has informed me that you are not hostile and haven’t been for a while… I trust him to trust you, let us go somewhere private.”

“Returning to my room in Lord Aphmau’s house should provide enough privacy... Zoey will be just next door if you really feel unsafe.” 

He didn’t miss the way the Doctor looked relieved while Garroth looked disgruntled, the two walked away and all the way back to the Lord’s house, into the basement, and the Doctor shut the door behind Laurence after grabbing his bag from the door over. 

“Alright, a typical physical mock-up for Guards should suffice plenty.”

Laurence began to remove his jacket and shirt. “Have you… done those before?”

“Many times for the Guards back in Brightport, worry not, I know what I’m doing.” The Doctor began removing his tools and as instructed, sat down on the chair while the doctor poked and prodded at his muscles, checked his heart rate, briefly put an ointment on his burn scars along his chest and legs, and tested some of his reflexes. 

“Well, I do not see any reason that you shouldn’t be permitted to get back to work, especially if you wish to return as a Guard.” 

“... I think I’ll just do some rebuilding for now.” Laurence said while putting back on his clothes, he had told Garroth the new rules wouldn’t change his mind, but the idea that he might hurt Aphmau and would have to… no. he knew it was the right thing. He would be better off dead than harming anyone he truly loved. Laurence adjusted the gloves on his hands as the doctor continued to speak, now that he thought about it, he never got the chance to gauge his reflection. 

Maybe he’ll do that before he returns to Garroth. 

“Alright, I’ll let Sir Garroth know of my results.” With that, the Doctor left. 

His burns weren’t as bad as they once were, but there would be permanent scarring according to both the Doctor and Zoey… it was fine. He knew he looked good no matter it, it didn't matter if he had some scars. All guards do. He was sure even Garroth did somewhere. He chose not to think about where - weirdly growing flustered. 

As Laurence left his room, he stopped on the second floor of Lord Aphmau’s house, briefly intruding into her room to find the mirror.

He looked… younger. Kind of. Like, he had brown hair when he was born and younger but it had always been auburn, not really this… white? It was still brown! But he was a way lighter brown than he was used to. And his eyes… were still green. Laurence smiled at that, he wasn’t sure why he was worried if they were a different color– well. He knew he was very grateful that his eyes hadn’t turned red, because that would mean he had lost control.

But he was also grateful they were still green, Garroth had been very taken with green eyes… not that that was important. It was just nice to know someone liked looking at him.

That wasn’t a woman.

He guesses.

Laurence shook his head, and returned back to the plaza. “Well?”

Garroth looked at him, shaking his head fondly and handing him a sword. His sword… “It was sent with Raven from the village of Meteli, please, take it and if you wish to, you may keep it posted in the Guard Tower. 

Laurence stared at the sword Garroth was handing to him, handle first, he briefly looked between Garroth and the blade. “You…you trust me with this…? Garroth, I… I don’t even know if I want to be a Guard…” 

“Even if you do not, it is… it was nice of them to return it, you deserve to have a reliable weapon, so please, I trust you to hold onto it and… should you become a Guard, I will be honored to fight alongside you.”

“... Thank you.” Laurence took the weapon.

“Now, you will be helping me personally, I intend to use the currency we have been blessed with to reach out to neighboring villages for carpenters and more guards, so we have our work cut out for us.” 

Laurence blinked in surprise, just this morning Garroth was whispering to Aphmau how he had been worried Laurene would turn and smite down the village in a matter of seconds. And now… he was allowing Laurence to conspire with him on what Guards they trusted to keep Phoenix Drop safe… why?

Was he forcing himself to be trusting? He shouldn’t have to, he should have to earn his trust like anyone else in the village… unless… this is him earning his trust.

Keeping a watchful eye on Laurence was Garroth’s way of easing his own anxieties and making sure Laurence was a loyal citizen of Phoenix Drop.

Regardless, he followed Garroth back to the guard tower as soon as Garroth had gotten through with telling his men what to do. 

. . .  Laurence and Garroth had sent out a few messages to neighboring villages and farther ones about desires for Guards.

That was actually the day Laurence had realized… when Garroth would say “Raven” was sending his messages… Laurence had believed he meant an actual raven. Not– 

“A wyvern?” Laurence said in disbelief as the wyvern was perched upon Garroth’s arm like a pet bird. 

“Hm?” Garroth caught Laurence’s eye. “Yes, this Raven, he is my Wyvern friend.”  Laurence paused, staring at the creature silently, it eyed him over suddenly flying to the air. “Huh? Raven?” Garroth stumbled back with a start, Laurence jumped in surprise too as the Wyvern squawked something — it had been so long Laurence was a little rusty, not to mention he was able to only speak with Ungrth because of their soul connection. So to Laurence, his Wyvern was speaking English.  “He…” Garroth furrowed his brow. “He said to follow him.”

“Just me?”

It squawked again and Garroth nodded, "Preferably just you, unless you wish me to follow.” 

“... Raven is your Wyvern, I’d like for you to come with.” 

“... Very well.” Garroth followed a distance behind Laurence as he chased after Raven. Garroth had left Brian and Dale in charge, Dale was taking a break from worry about Alexis since Molly had returned by her side, informing them as they sprinted by they wouldn’t be long. 

After traveling a bit into their forests, that’s when they stumbled upon something that made Laurecne’s heart stop. 

“What is…” He breathed out and approached it. A small shrine of gold, emerald, amethyst, many jewels to behold with a singular sign posted in a wyvern language, but Laurence could read the word easily; Ungrth

“It’s… a gravesite.” Garroth whispered as Raven sat upon the gems, looking at Garroth as the Wyvern spoke.  “He says… Raven says they made this in order to honor their fallen brother… if he had returned home they would have welcomed him back into their flock… Raven and his siblings are sorry for your loss…” 

Garroth had nearly forgotten that Laurence had a Wyvern he was brothers with, much less that he had witnessed Ungrth pass away shortly after transcending realm barriers with Laurence.

The man himself collapsed to his knees at the gravesite and leaned his head forward against one of the emerald blocks. “... I can still feel him. Barely… he is…he’s resting now…” 

“I’m sorry, Laurence.”

“Don’t be. He saved my life… and that was his choice, even if he knew the consequences… we would have both been corrupted and it would have been ten times more painful for him than me…” Laurence looked up at Raven. “Thank you for building this… and showing this to me.” Laurence looked at Garroth who seemed unsure of what more to say. “I have been worried sick ever since I opened my eyes but I… I knew because I couldn’t feel him that he was gone…” 

“You two were soul-bonded, yes?”

“That’s right.” Laurence smiled. “I saved his life from a local wyvern hunter… and in turn he saved mine. We’ve been brothers ever since.”

“I have a similar story with Raven, though not quite as heroic.” Garroth turned to Raven. “I stumbled upon their keep and Raven bravely defended his home… but in the process had gotten into a fight with a wild wolf and suffered from injuries… I decided to treat him… Raven was grateful but not as easily swayed to befriend me as Ungrth was for you. So I began to study them, following Raven and lingering by their keep til I learned their language.”

“That’s insanely impressive.” Laurence scoffed out a laugh.

“Well, I’m not perfect, there are many words they speak - intentionally so -” Garroth eyed Raven playfully as the wyvern looked away. “That I still do not understand… Even so, after pestering him enough Raven and I seemed to have grown a mutual friendships.Sometimes he comes to me with small favors in return he delivers my messages. And so forth.” 

“Like I said:” Laurence stood up, still keeping a hand on the gravestone as Raven flew off. “Impressive.”

“He is off now, scouting for Lord Aphmau as I often have him do just to make sure she is alright."

“You really care for her.”

“She is my Lord.”  Garroth said, like it was obvious. “... She might as well be yours too, and I know how much you care about her.”

“You’re not wrong… we should probably return to Phoenix Drop.”

“I will go on ahead… I’ll give you a moment alone with Ungrth, you deserve it.”

And true to his word, Garroth trudged on ahead while Laurence stayed with his brother a few moments longer. 

. . .  Raven came by one morning and told both Garroth and Laurence of what was happening in Brightport, with O’Khasis guards and the Lord being off at Pikoro, the entire outrageous and tense story. What was worse..

“Wait, Lord Aphmau is all alone at the werewolf tribe, just on the outskirts of Brightport.” Laurence recalled, looking at Garroth.

“... Indeed she is…” He sighed as Raven ascended, returning home. “If the O’Khasis guards were to apprehend her… this village would be entirely without a Lord. They'd never let her go.” 

“We have to go.”

“I agree.” Garroth nodded easily. “Should we have to fight, we must be by her side.”

“It is…” Laurence took a deep breath. “As her guards it is our duty to protect her, and we cannot do that here in Phoenix Drop.”

“...” Garroth eyed Laurence with a new light in his eyes. It was now the first time Laurence had taken up the Guard title since getting his vision back, and even now, as Aphmau’s guard. “Then let us prepare for travel, we will have to take a boat around Brightport straight to the werewolf tribe, we cannot cut through, not with O’Khasis guards.” 

“Agreed. I’ll gather our supplies and head for the docks, you decide who you will be leaving in charge and let everyone know of our departure.” 

“You should stop by Cadenza’s and let her know. She’d want a proper goodbye from you.”

“... Right.” Laurence sighed as the two parted ways. 

Laurence headed straight for the guard tower and grabbed his emerald blade and shield. The tools felt heavy in his hands and increasingly warm.

These were the last weapons he had before he was kidnapped and changed into his Shadow Knight form…  once again it seems like he is picking up his responsibilities, his duties, for Lord Aphmau. 

And should things go south on this mission… he would really be dying for her this time. Once more. 

 Laurence shook off those thoughts, with any luck, Lord Aphamu would be in the werewolf village by the time they arrived and be doing just as she said, healing one of the wolves with Kiki at her side. No trouble, and no worries.

Laurence turned to reach for his satchel when he spotted it. Garroth’s helmet.

He bit his lip and lifted it up carefully, knowing that he and Garroth made a deal that should Laurence get his sight back that Garroth would no longer be wearing his helmet… unless he really needed to… and approaching villages overrun by O’Khasis guards… Laurence held the helmet under his arm and began running towards the farm house for their food. 

… Garroth had approached Emma first regarding their travels. “I am leaving Brian in charge whenever Dale is absent, and Zoey where she is not assisting Alexis is wise enough to make Lord-like decisions as she has also been here a very long time and living closely with Lord Aphmau. As for Corey, he will be in the mines and assisting Brendan in rebuilding the village.”  Of course Emma was more than welcomed to steal her husband away if she needed him but Corey had been given his orders by Garroth on where to help. 

“Wow.” Was all Emma said as she nodded. “Thank you for telling me alla that.” Emma laughed. “Are you here to gather food, then?”

“No, I will be leaving that to Laurence. I am just here to inform people of our travels.” 

“It’s usrprsing.” Emma suddenly said. “I think this is the first time you’ve ever left Phoenix Drop.”

Garroth paused, feeling his emotions stall in his chest as Emma made him realize that… “Yes. It… it is actually…”

“Wlel hey,” She quickly back-tracked, putting a tender hand on Garroth’s shoulder. “You will not be far from home at all, we will miss you, Garroth. All of us. Take care, you and that handsome friend ‘o yours.” 

“Th.. Thank you, Emma.” With that, Garroth left to visit Kawaii~Chan, Molly and Dale. 

… Emma gave him a once-over and a kind smile - Laurence imagined Garroth must have already spoken to her because she did not fight him on taking food. 

Then down to the docks where he began to set up the boat, there was another smaller one poorly built by Lord Aphmau at some point that they salvaged. Laurence attached the helm and threw their supplies on board. 

As he was double-checking the sails and helm, he heard the sound of footsteps trudging down the dock, two of them, one that smelt of baby powder and the other that reeked of roses… and then pine.

Kaurence looked overboard to address Cadenza who stood there watching him intently, worry-lines creasing her forehead and mouth. 

Zoey was there too, holding onto little Levin’s hand before Garroth made his presence known. As Laurence descended the boat to say his farewells, he had to pause to watch Garroth and Levin. 

… Garroth had said his peace to Kawaii~Chan asking her to keep the village protected with her magicks should she see anything out of place, Zoey would be in charge, and they would not be too long.

As for Dale and Molly… Garroth knocked gently on the door to see them both inside still at Alexis’s bedside.

“Apolgies for intruding.” He whispered as the couple turned to address him.

“Garroth,” Molly breathed out, standing up to greet him while Dale remained still. He knew there was some tension between Dale and himself.

Garroth was just thankful Dale never disobeyed orders or made this problem well known - but he knew Dale had distrusted Garroth ever since he found out Zane was his younger brother. “Are you here to pray for Alexis?”

Garroth paused and half nodded. “Yes, I am here to pray for her… but then I must inform you two that I am off to the wolf village to assist Lord Aphmau.”

“Oh?” Dale turned to address him now. “Why’s that?”

“Raven has reported some… danger in the area… with the wolf-tribe on the brink of war Laurence and I do not wish to have anything happen to her and we feel as her personal Guards that we must protect our Lord… so in the meantime, Zoey is in charge of any Lord-based decisions you may face and Brian will be Head Guard in my stay…” Garroth met Dale’s eyes. “So you may continue to be beside Alexis. I trust your son entirely to protect the village.” 

“I can take over.” Dale confirmed. “I… I don’t want anything to happen to my boy.”

“... If you feel that is best, understood. But if you change your mind, Brian is ready to take that leadership position.” 

“So you’ll be by Brightport?” Molly asked shyly. “In case we need to get you..?”

“I will have Raven stop by everyday to give me updates on Phoenix Drop’s condition, if you see him and you need me… just speak to him, he understands our language.” 

“Got it…” Molly nodded. “This must be exciting, finally leaving Phoenix Drop...”

“Phoenix Drop is my home.” Garroth replied instantly, trying not to seem defensive. Molly didn't mean it in that way after all.. “I would never willingly leave it behind… this is just something I feel as her guard I must do.”

“We understand, Garroth, we do.” Molly reached back and took Dale’s hand. “Before you go, join us in prayer for our daughter.”

“Of course.” Garroth laid his weapon and shield to the side and stood over Aleix’s bed, lowering his head and enclosing his hands in prayer. 

He prayed for Alexis to be cured, for a speedy recovery, for her to be a promising young woman when she wakes, and Garroth prayed nothing terrible would happen to her, nor her family, nor this village… 

When he was done, Garroth picked up his weapons and headed for the docks, where he saw Zoey with Levin in hand and Cadenza watching Laurence slowly dismount the ship to say their goodbyes.

Levin saw Garroth first and instantly let go of Zoey’s hand, stumbling to greet him. “Dada!” He cried and Garroth’s heart nearly stopped.

It’s… it’s funny. He didn’t think Levin remembered the time Garroth had taken his helmet off to properly greet the baby in his youth.

… So identical they could have been father and son, the little child raised his hands to Garroth’s face and pressed his tiny palms into Garroth’s cheeks babbling but managed to say “Goodbye” in his speech. Garroth’s eyes were wide with care and his smile was struggling to remain strong.

Laurence began to wonder if he had ever left Phoenix Drop before… 

Garroth embraced Levin tightly, but not too tight as Garroth was still dressed in his armor. 

Laurence approached his sister who eyed him coldly. “Were you forgetting to say goodbye?”

“Never.” And swiftly pulled her into an embrace she returned tenfold, even trying to lift him off the ground a bit. 

Laurecne got the unspoken hint and backed away from Garroth, Zoey, and Levin as to not hit them before he picked Cadenza up by the waist and spun her around. She laughed wildly – just like she did when Laurence could see her again for the first time – and way back in the day when Laurece used to do this with her whenever she left or returned from her camping ventures.

He had nearly forgotten this little tradition of theirs with everyone going on. 

The two sighed merrily as Laurence set her down, he could feel Garroth and Zoey’s eyes on them. “Promise me,” Cadenza began resting her hand on Laurence’s cheek. “You will be safe and you will return to me in one piece.” 

Cadenza had said something similar during Laruence’s first ever patrol and Laurence had said back then ‘You know Guards can’t promise that’ to which she had pouted the whole day until Laurence returned without a scratch.

He didn’t want to leave Cadenza here with false hope, and yet he didn’t want to leave her behind with an argument or tense air surrounding them. Even if he hates making promises he knows he cannot keep. 

“I promise.”

 Cadenza let out a big exhale of relief and hugged him one final time before Garroth approached him. “Are you ready?”

“Let’s go.” Laurence nodded as the two climbed and boarded the boat, Laurence took the helm and set them off as the sun began to set.

… During their boat ride, as they circled a great distance from Brightport, Garroth spotted it in the corner with Laurence’s weapons. 

“My… Is that my helmet?” 

Laurence briefly glanced back at Garroth then the helmet and turned away. “Uhm, yea… I brought with us for you.” 

Garroth approached it shyly, lifting it up like it had been much longer than it actually had been since he put it on. “... Why?” He inquired somewhat suspiciously. 

“If there truly are reports of O’Khasis guards within the area of Brightport, they will recognize you, and possibly try to detain you.” Laurence explained. 

“I see… smart.” Garroth put on the helmet before he suddenly asked. “What of a disguise for you?” 

“I don’t have a helmet.” Laurence laughed, then paused. “I don’t plan for us to draw their attention in the first place, but it is better for them to realize who I am than for you, because they at least want you alive.” 

“Laurence…” The man at the wheel took a deep breath, possibly preparing himself a lecture on his safety before Garroth suddenly said: “I wouldn’t dare let them hurt you.”

Laurence froze. “... Huh…?”

Garroth grew flustered immediately, backtracking as he was ever so relieved to have his helmet back to shield his feelings from shining through. “I- I just mean, I’d be there with you. To protect you. Fi-fighting by your side… as Guards…”

“... Oh.” Laurence chuckled. “Yeah. We'll be fighting together now… that’ll be fun.” 

“... Are you ready to fight?” Garroth inquired. 

“I honestly don’t know… I probably should’ve trained with you… or just… in general, before I left. It’s been a while since I actually was in battle… ever since… in the Nether, after the transformation, it wasn’t really encouraged to fight with the Shadow Knights you were expected to fight alongside with.”

“I see… perhaps… If we arrive early enough in the werewolf village, and Lord Aphmau is fine, then we could use that time to train. Together.”  Laurence stole a glance back at Garroth. “Just until you’re confident in your abilities.”

“... Maybe.”  Laurence took a deep breath. “For now, you need to get some rest.” 

“... Hm?” It was Garroth’s turn to be speechless.

“Look, I hold no offense in my next words but… you look exhausted Garroth. I can tell you haven’t been sleeping, possibly not since Zane had shown up at Phoenix Drop.”

“I’ve been resting.” Garroth refuted but Laurence stopped him before he could go on.

“Ah ah. I said sleeping. Resting your body when you're not on patrol is one thing… but trust me, Garroth, a lack of sleep will make you sloppy and some people even have hallucinations. How many days has it been since you’ve got a good full night's rest?”

“... Every time I close my eyes I have nightmares.” Garroth even surprised himself at his sudden confession, even moving a hand to cover his mouth that was already shielded.

“Sometimes a lack of rest can also ruin your filter.” Laurence teased and Garroth ‘tsk’ed. “You can go to bed, Garroth. I’ll be sailing for a while, I’m trying to get near Brightport without suspension… so… just try to relax and go to bed. Okay? You’re safe with me.” Laurence’s voice trailed off into something softer as Garroth sighed and obeyed. 

Just as he put his helmet back on he was already taking it off and found a spot to sit down in the corner of the boat. 

He watched the back of Laurence for a bit as he tried to get comfortable, not entirely willing to undress from his armor as the night grew colder. Laurence’s head was down-angled as he focused on the every moving, yet calm, tide before him. He could occasionally turn his head in the direction of where Brightport laid but would then go back to focusing on the water.

He noticed as Luarence sailed his waist would rock with the water, swaying subtly side to side as he controlled the steering and how he was intentionally breathing through his nose to be as silent as possible for Garroth to sleep. 

When Garroth finally allowed himself to shut his eyes under the stars, he thought of Phoenix Drop, Lord Aphamu, and… Levin. Levin who had called him dad. 

Of course, it was definitely because Levin had imprinted onto Garroth – he was the only man who would take time out of his patrol to ask about him, visit him, and even when he was a child Garroth had taken a day away from his post just to child him and watch over him. Lord Aphmau hadn’t minded either and it was… it was definitely because Garroth was the only prominent male figure in his life that he considered himself to be related to Garroth.

No other reason. No other reason, especially not having to do with his relation to Aphmau either.

Definitely not.

Levin just… he had always considered him as a… in a similar matter to how he treated Zenix. Both like his own children. Zenix had betrayed him however, the whole village, and was nowhere to be found… Garroth wondered if Laurence knew anything… Garroth had asked Lord Aphmau to ask Laurence about it, but Laurence had been extremely insistent on not bringing up his time in the Nether, not anything to do with transformation. 

Which was respectable, Garroth can only imagine what kind of mental torture both he and Alexis had gone through in those moments. 

. . . . . . .  “Do you take the daughter of Scaleswind to be your lawfully wedded wife?” Zane, his brother, stood at the pedestal while Garroth was face to face with… with a faceless woman . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . “What…?” Garroth looked around wildly, there was masked faces in the chairs but he recognized his villagers, his people, anywhere. Phoenix Drop citizens watched on in horrific smiles. “... No… No I–” . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . “Come on brother, you know what the answer is… do it for them.” Zane gestured into the crowd and in the back was Lord Aphmau and Laurence. Both with a blade to their throats. Begging, begging for their lives and for Garroth to just get on with it.  That he must. That he has to save them. . . . . . . .

. . . . . . .“Unhand them!" Garroth turned to strike Zane but his brother had grabbed him by the throat and lifted him off the ground. “You cannot escape your responsibilities brother!” Garroth choked as he clawed at the hand that restrained him. “It matters not your real emotions, you know you will always have to be what everyone else needs!” Zane cackled madly. . . . . . .

At some point, in his slumber, Garroth was being shaken by Laurence, he felt the man’s hands on his shoulder and chest shaking him awake, “Garroth… Garroth…!” 

Garroth’s eyes shot open and he sat up, nearly bumping heads with the man. “Wh -what?!”

Laurence sat backwards and sighed in relief. “You were having a night terror while I was docking the boat, and when I tried to help you into the tribe.” 

Garroth furrowed his brows. He put a hand up to his throat. “I… Oh…” Laurence was staring at him intently with a frown on his face as his eyes subtly trailed Garroth’s movements, he held the Guard to his feet as Garroth attempted to sit up. “Thank you… for waking me.” He cleared his throat as Laurence let go of his hand. 

The two now standing as the sunrise just hit the back of Laurence’s head, shieling Garroth from direct sunlight.

“... Are you alright?” Laurence asked quietly. “You were… I could actually smell your fear.” He tried to joke but Gartroth shook his head.

“Just another night terror… it will inevitably pass.” Garroth looked off the boat and at the island. “We’re here.”

“Uh… Yep. Just need to talk to the tribe and find our Lord.”

“Right.” Garroth nodded, sighing delicately as he began to grab his helmet and weapons, Laurence followed suit, adjusting his satchel that held their food and his own weapons.  

… As they began their walk towards the wolf tribe village, Laurence offered Garroth from breakfast - berries and bread. They took a short break in their march to sit and eat… when they suddenly saw an arctic fox. 

“What the…” Laurence eyed it suspiciously.

“Weird.” Garroth mumbled. “This is definitely not their usual environment.” 

“No kidding.” Laurence mumbled but before he could approach it the fox caught sight of them and sprinted off. “Welp. That was weird.”

Garroth laughed, “Truly… I wonder…”Garroth stood up as Laurence finished his meal, Garroth just shoved the rest of his loaf into his mouth as he began walking a bit away. He stood there for a moment longer, just observing the land while Laurence sat back and watched him quietly.

 “Are you ready to keep going?” Garroth looked back at Laurence. 

“Uhm…” Laurence looked down at his food, popping a berry into his mouth as he shoved what bread he didn’t eat back into the bag. “Sure-” He said through a mouthful as he stood up and jogged over.  “Waht, did you see which way it went?”

“Mhm, and look,” Garroth pointed a distance away at the ground. “That’s a werewolf print.”

Laurence followed his finger and noticed the abnormally large paw print that had tracked in some mud. Not to mention the faint scent of dog fur in the air. “It sure is…” Laurence mumbled as Garroth nudged him.

 “Let’s keep going.” 

“Right.” 

As the two kept walking the sun began to lower a bit as the evening rolled around rather quickly. During their walks, Laurence was asking him some casual questions about Phoenix Drop and just how long he had lived there, and how long he had been with Lord Aphmau, and in turn Garroth inquired about Meteli, Cadenza, and even Castor… 

Their back and forth was going rather well.

… At some point their conversation had hit an…interesting point. Garroth was watching Laurence keep a steady pace, occasionally readjusting his grip on this blade before he would swing it in a cool way and practiced catching it. Something Laurence had mentioned he does as a bored habit. 

“...Are you really in love with Lord Aphmau?” 

Laurence stumbled in his pace, but ended up stopping completely, not turning but his eyes bore into Garroth’s like he could truly read his face. "... Well, I did confess to her, didn’t I?”

Garroth shied away. “I didn't know you knew I was there for that.”

“I could smell you.” Laurence teased.

“... It might be a while if she ever returns your feelings.”

 Laurence turned his body now to address Garroth, raising a brow in a smug way. “Oh? And you know this how?” 

“I proposed to her.” Garroth found himself confessing rather easily, Laurence weirdly seemed to have that effect on him. Getting Garroth to open up like it was truly nothing. 

Regardless, the topic was still something that wounded his pride, and it was truly embarrassing. 

Especially considering they had barely known each other, he had fallen for her looks, charm, and with Levin in the picture… it felt right, but… Laurence’s face dropped into pure surprise. 

“You proposed?!” He partly shouted and partly laughed. He looked Garroth up and down which… was a weird feeling. “Why’d she say no?”

 “She didn’t say anything…” Garroth groaned, itching to run his hand over his face or pinch the bridge of his nose as a stimulus for this humiliation. “Before she left for Scaleswind I had given her a chest of things I thought she might need… in there was a wedding band. She didn’t take it with her, nor wore it.”

 Laurence continued to stare at him with those wide baffled eyes of his, searching Garroth’s helmet for his eyes most likely. And then, rubbing salt into the wound, began laughing hysterically. “… This is not funny.” Garroth muttered, unsure if he was heard due to his helmet muffling his speech of Laurence’s weirdly charming cackle. 

“That— no wonder she said no! That’s not how you propose to someone!” He didn’t cease his laughter as he asked; “How long had she been your Lord for?”

 “… A month.” 

“A month?!” Laurence howled. 

“I do not understand what you find so funny!” Garroth retaliated, nudging the man with his shield. “You are also in love with the same woman!” 

This quieted Laurence’s chuckling instantly. He paused, eyeing Garroth like he was truly considering his words. “… Okay.” 

“… Okay?” 

“You’re right.” Laurence smiled, but Garroth knew a mask for your emotions from a mile away. “I am in love with the same woman… And even if I hadn’t gotten to know her as long as you have, I still believe she knows plenty of my past.” Laurence picked up his pace again and Garroth followed. “… Not to mention, you just recently shared with her yours.” Garroth nodded subtly. “If you proposed to her expecting to hide that from her for the rest of your married lives?” Laurence chuckled again. “I’m sorry but that probably wasn’t going to be a sound marriage had she said yes.” 

Garroth frowned. “Are you… are you saying I should try again?” 

“Well, I’m still into her too, Garroth.” There was a defensive edge to his tone that Garroth didn’t miss, if he wasn’t so trusting of Laurence he might even have assumed it was threatening… “But, I’d go about it differently if I were you. You’re too shy and passive about your love, but I have already told her how I truly feel. Maybe you should give it a try.” 

Garroth shook his head, barely visibly through his armor. “No. I cannot. That is wildly inappropriate.” 

“Why?”

“I’m her Personal Guard. She… she needs to trust me and she can’t if I–”

“I’m her guard now too, aren’t I? I told her I loved her and she still trusts me to be kept around.” 

“I don’t know.” Garroth shook his head. “Let us stop speaking of thos… it is too humiliating.” Laurence laughed again. 

“Okay, sure.”  The two came to a stop at the sight of straw houses. “We’re here anyway…” 

The two men just stopped at the small stone wall surrounding the village, they circled it slowly and stealthily for a way inside. “... I don’t smell her.” Laurence whispered suddenly. Garroth eyed him.

“... What?”

“Everyone has their own scents, that was how I was able to identify everyone when I was blinded… Lord Aphmau has a strong Lavender scent to her and I… I don’t smell it here…”

Garroth frowned beneath his helmet. “It could also be because there are werewolves here.”

“... True… it reeks of dog fur. It’s overpowering.” 

Garroth bit back his inquiry about his scent, but instead once they found an opening the two approached it, before a massive werewolf charged them. 

“Who are you ?!” She roared, looming over them dangerously.

“We are Lord Aphmau’s guards!” Garroth bravely took charge despite the fact that Laurence had gotten into a stance that was ready to strike, need be.

Garroth certainly held more patience than him. 

“Lord Aphmau…?” The werewolf shrunk in on itself slightly. “State your names.” It growled again.

“Garroth, and this is Laurence.” Garroth gestured to themselves as he itnroduced themselves.

“Wait here.” The wolf barked. “I… I can smell her scent on you…but…”

“Garroth?” A familiar voice suddenly broke hte tension in the air as the blonde suddenly turned to the direction of…

“Donna?” He whispered, the woman rushed towards the group, flailing her arms:

“No! No, do not hurt them! They’re with me! They’re with Aphmau! I promise!” Donna vouched for them with a voice that ached and the werewolf backed up in surprise as Donna pulled Garroth forward, not minding his weapons enough, into a tight embrace. “Oh Garroth!” She weeped. “I’m so happy to see you!” 

“Donna–” Garroth adjusted his grip on his shield to wrap one arm around the woman. “It… it is good to see you as well,” But he pulled away quickly. “What happened? I thought you were on your honeymoon… where is Logan? Where are Aohmau and Kiki?”

Donna only fell into another fit of tears, Laurence and Garroth exchanged grave expressions as the werewolf suddenly spoke up. “Perhaps you two should come inside… we have much to discuss.”

… The sun was just beginning to set over the horizon now as Laurence and Garroth sat in a hut with Donna where she explained everything, about their hostage situation, arriving at the werewolf tribe with a young man, and how he and Lord Aphmau went to the rival werewolf tribe to go save her husband.

Laurence was rubbing calm circles on her back as she weeps into his shoulder.  “Don’t worry Donna, we’ll go after them and ensure Logan comes back.”

“For now you must stay here with the wolves and Kiki. We will be back hopefully by morning.” 

“You…” Donna sat up, moving away from Laurence. “Yo…you’re going… n…now? A- at night?”

Garroth and Laurence exchanged glances again. “... The longer we’re away from Aphmau the more dangerous the mission could become for her. We’ll leave now.” 

“Oh bless your souls.” Donna smiled, wiping away her tears. “They… they went on horseback bu…but… I don’t think the horses they managed to tame are still around. You’ll have to walk.” 

Garroth allowed himself to smile(hiddenly) at Laurence’s unmasked grimace. “It’s… that’ll be fine. We can handle it.” Garroth wasn’t sure if he was convincing himself or Donna. 

“... You two are truly such honorable guards. I cannot thank you enough for doing this.”

Garroth and Laurence stood up. “Think nothing of it. Stay here Donna, we’ll be back.”

Garroth and Laurence briefly stopped to inform the werewolves of their leave and intention of returning before they set off. The stars were blinking into existence in the ngithsky above htem. Laurence took a deep breath the farther they got away from the camp. “I forgot there was a difference in smell from the night and day.”

“Oh yeah?” Garroth entertained him. “What kind of smells have you been discovering?”

“I have to train my nose more when we get back,” Laurnece confessed. “But… I don’t know, the night always smelt calmer and more crisp. While the daytime smelt more strongly of nature and… the ocean had a more prominent smell in the sun.”

“... Interesting.”

“You should try training your nose sometime.”

“Oh.” Garroth looked away. “Maybe… but with you on my side, I feel there’s no need to when you can do it for me.”

“Oh good.” Laurence spoke sarcastically. “I’m glad I’m here to be your search-dog.”

Garroth nudged him a little too roughly, as Laurnence stumbled off to the side, “I did not mean to like that!”

“I know I know!” Laurence laughed and nudged him back. “Here,” Laurene dug into his satchel and took a handful of dried beef from it, handing some to Garroth. “I’m getting kind of hungry and I bet you are too.”

“Ah, thank you.” Garroth took a few pieces, momentarily lifting his helmet up so he could chew. “We have been traveling for days and yet it feels like it has only been a few hours.”

“I know right?” Laurence swallowed his bite. “Let us not forget Lord Aphmau is two days ahead of us on this journey…” 

“Right.” Garroth nodded. “We must push onward.” 

 The walk continued in some silence, delicate snowfall covering their tracks and building on Laurence’s eyelashes and Garroth’s helmet.

The sight of Laurence’s pale hair blending in with the white was a sight to behold… but Garroth must focus on Lord Aphmau first.

Laurence was rubbing his hands together, attempting to keep warmth and he blew hot hair into his hands… before he stopped. “... I … I smell dogs.”

“You do?” Garroth stopped too, before he looked off into the east. “Well, I see a castle…”

“That’s where the scent is coming from, I’m sure of it.”

“... Do you think, she took shelter in there?” 

“... Maybe, but it’s hard to track footprints in snowfall… but our Lord is smart enough not to travel in the cold and at night.”

“Unlike some of us.” Garroth joked, relieved to see Laurence grin at his words. “... Shall we investigate?”

Laurence adjusted his grip on his weapon and shield. “... Sure. Let’s brace ourselves, if this is the rival wolf village, they will not be friendly.”

… And indeed they weren’t. The second they heard Laurence and  Garroth approached they attacked and a battle commenced. Laurence was lucky enough to subdue a few of them, and slit their necks to finish them off while Garroth had only slaughtered one while the rest turned tail and ran.

 When Laurence and Garroth had finally approached at the castle gates they were clawing at, the large wooden gate door open slowly as Garroth put a tentative hand to it.

“... Are you ready?”

“For our Lord.” Laurence confirmed and Garroth nodded with him as they both entered. 

Slowly and side by side the two creeped carefully into the castle. “I can’t see a damned thing… the torches hardly light up the room.” Garroth grumbled. “And I cannot hear even the sound of birds nor insects from inside.”

“I don’t… I don’t feel anything bad about this place, not anything from the Nether anyway…Look!” Laurence suddenly pointed. “She has to be here! There are two horses right there by the corner of this corridor.” 

The two Guards approached the horses, one in golden armor while the other just plain spotted. 

“I bet she fled from those wolves we took care of…” 

“Should we split up?” Laurence inquired. “If Lord Aphmau truly is here and in this darkness, who knows where she could be… this place is huge.”

“That seems… wise… but still, I fear with this darkness we may get separated too.” Garroth muttered, brushing his arm against Laurence instinctively to make sure they were still beside each other. 

“I’m sure–” Laurence blinked suddenly. He felt something… writhing in his chest… he dropped his blade and fell to his knees. “N… no…” His bones cracked beneath his skin and he felt his body be consumed by heat once more, a familiar darkness ran through his veins and head that caused Laurence to writhe on the ground as he tried to claw away the armor creeping up his chest. It hurt even worse than when it happened the first time... 

“No… no no no no!” He screamed and his voice echoed bouncing off the walls, when he looked up from his spot on the ground, Garroth was hovering over him, blade ready to defend. His face was expressionless and cold. Laurence slowly turned to stand, his bones still vibrating and his body encased in smoke from the fire, in this form, his Shadow Knight form… he was much taller than the Guard, and when he looked down at his hands a piercing red blade was enclosed tight around his fist.

“Your eyes…” Garroth spoke grimly. “They’re… red.”

“Wh-what?! No! They can’t be I–” Laurence’s eyes widened as he searched for a reflective surface, but what he found nearly stilled his heart. If he weren’t immortal.

 Just as his feet lay Lord Aphmau’s body, she stared up at him with lifeless brown eyes that bore into his soul. It was like she had just manifested there.

When he looked down at his armor-covered hands they were dark red with her blood…  and he fell to his knees, causing the ground to shake beneath him as he let out a piercing cry. 

“You know what you must do!” Garroth yelled over his cries, no empathy in his eyes. 

Laurence knew… but he couldn’t… “I… I didn’t mean to… I…”

“Do you really expect me to live in a world without her?” Garroth snapped. “If you thought you were special enough to keep alive?” He scoffed. “No. I care as little about you as I do any threat to my Lord… now that you have murdered her, there is no reason for me or you to go on.” Garroth pointed at Laurence’s blade with his own. “Do it. Finish the job.”

… Garroth had backed away from Laurence now, his sword nearly slipping from his grasp.

“No…” He whispered. The man before him was limp in Zane’s grip. His brother had Laurence by the scalp of his hair, a long red line slashed across his throat and with the blood dripping from Zane's hands. “You… you… How could you…?” His knees were weak and Garroth fell to the ground with a heavy thud. By their feet, Lord Aphmau’s body with a large gash in her abdomen, her eyes lifeless as they stared directly into Garroth’s.

“You were a fool to think I’d forget..” Zane’s voice was low and abnormal. It sounded like there were two people speaking at once. “Now because of you, and your foolishness, I have slaughtered him, your dear Laurence and your precious Lord. And soon I will destroy Phoenix Drop while I make you watch.” 

“You… I…” Garroth weakly grabbed at his chest. Zane’s eyes were a cold icy blue. Far more pale than his with a tint of red that made Garroth confirm his suspicions his brother was truly the devil spawn. Looked down at Laurence lying limply in Zane’s grasp. His eyes were dull and rolled back into his head. So long to the glorious emerald they once were… “I… I thought… why not me? Why not take…” Garroth's voice ached. “Why… why did you…?”

“It was all your fault. You know this, deep down, don’t you? Your feelings for Lord APhmhau… for Laurence… you didn’t think I’d realize you had fallen for another? Your duties will forever be to O’Khasis whether you want it or not. You let your feelings, your selfishness get the best of you and you failed.” 

“But…” Garroth shook his head. “No… no no no! You told me–”

“Enough of this! Let us go watch your world crumble before I slit your throat too!”

Garroth grit his teeth, suddenly overcome with rage, “You’ll pay for this, bastard!” He stood up as swung as Zane with all his might.

“Owwie! HoW daRe yOu hIt Me wItH a SwOrd?!” 

… Laurence’s eyes shot open, his vision crystal clear as he heard a loud slash and the sound of a woman falling to the ground behind him.

“Lord… Lord Aphmau?!”  He turned to see her and some…guy… collapsed on the red carpet behind them. Better yet, he could see her. Alive and well, breathing, her eyes full of life and glistening with tears.  “Lord Aphmau!” Laurence cried as she stumbled to her feet and nearly collapsed into his arms, she grabbed him by the forearms.”Thank goodness you’re safe! What are you doing here?! What is going on!?”

“Lord Aphmau?!” Garroth ran to her side next, putting one of his hands on Laurence’s shoulders and the other on Aphmau’s. “You’re alive! You’re both…” He looked at Laurence then stopped, gazing back at her. “What is… this ghost… child?! You’re… I don’t understand, what is going on?!”

But the two men stopped as Lord Aphmau gently moved past them as she stared down at the child, then she knelt down onto one knee and began to speak with it. Laurence and Garroth took a few steps back as Lord Aphmau spoke with it. 

… Garroth noticed in his peripheral vision Laurence shaking violently. “... Are you alright?” He whispered quietly, nudging the man with his elbow. 

Laurence looked over at Garroth with a wary gaze. “I… Yeah. I’m fine… you?”

“I’ll be okay.” Garroth confirmed. As the child spoke it explained it was able to have people see their own worst fears. That certainly explained it. 

“What did…” Garroth began but Laurence shot him a gaze that said he did not wish to elaborate, Garroth nodded, respecting the lack of answer. 

… Suddenly, the man Laurence had noticed unconscious earlier ran past the two and in front of Lord Aphmau, off to the side of the child. “Lord Aphmau, that child is a spectre! Get away from him!” 

His hair was a powerful electric blue that matched his eyes as he wielded two small yet strikingly sharp blades in both hands. Laurence took a deep breath, the man smelt of bread. 

“He’s not dangerous!” Lord Aphmau began to plead but–

Laurence quickly became defensive. “Lord Aphmau may do whatever she wants, now Garroth and I want to know who the hell you are!” 

“Who are these people, Aphmau?” The man gestured with his blade and instantly Garroth and Laurence reacted by getting into their defensive maneuvers, standing on either side of Aphmau. The man quickly realized what he had done and lowered his weapon back to his side. 

“Okay,” Lord Aphmau took a deep breath. “I think we should set up camp here, Dante.” She instructed, still standing before the ghost child. “Then I can explain everything.” She briefly stole a glance back at her guards before ushering them down the steps, towards the horses. “Leave the child, do not touch him.” She instructed Dante without even looking at him. 

“Let’s sit upstairs, I’m just grabbing our materials.”

Garroth and Laurence stood back while Dante lingered by Aphmau helping her with the items before following them upstairs, briefly the two men kept glancing at one another. Each full of suspicion as to just who this man was, and why he was alone with Aphmau. 

Eventually, they arrived on the third floor while Lord Aphmau set up a bed for the ghost child, Malachi to lay down on. She spoke with her back turned to the men. “Dante, this is Garroth and Laurence. Garroth is my Head and personal Guard back at my home, my village of Phoenix Drop. This is Laurence…a former guard of Meteli who has taken up residency at my village.”

Lord Aphmau turned to face the two men who stood on the other side of Dante, still gazing at him critically. 

“Guys, this is Dante. He is a recently trained Guard who was looking for a village of his own… It's a longer story on what he’s been up to but he arrived at the wolf village with Donna. We’re on a rescue mission to save Logan from the rival werewolf tribe before we were chased inside this castle.” Lord Aphmau stood up as Malachi laid back to rest. “He is friendly.” 

There was a quiet moment that passed between the five of them as Lord Aphmau just made sure everything he had to set up camp was all settled… Dante was staring at Laurence… strangely. Like he couldn’t keep his eyes off the man, and Laurence would be flattered if he wasn’t totally weirded out.

Garroth glanced between the two, unsure how to hide his confusion nor just what the hell these two were mentally communicating without him.

It was almost insulting if Laurence was clearly uncomfortable.

Dante then turned to Lord Aphmau, “So these men are your guards, that’s good to know. I’m glad we have allies out here. This should make Logan’s rescue more than easy. Now, as Lord, you need to decide what we are going to do with this spectre child.”

“... I am…” Lord Aphmau stole a glance at the ghost child. “I have no idea what to do with him...” Garroth heard Lord Aphmau whisper before she approached both him and Laurence.  “Garroth, what are you guys doing here?!” Not that she didn’t sound happy to see them, but–

“Lord Aphmau,” Garroth exhaled. “I can tell you’ve been through a lot…” He eyed her briefly. “Especially with the vision saw just now… that was… hard to take.” Lord Aphmau shot him a sudden look of knowing… he wondred… what was her greatest fear? And why was she looking at him like she knew his?
“I… Laurence and I were informed of the tensions between Bright Port and Pikoro village, so we agreed we should both be at your side should conflict arise, we wouldn’t want you to be without us… We journeyed straight to the werewolf village as Raven had informed us about the guards by Brightport and when we arrived… We met Donna. I was so shocked to see her there, but she told us everything… even that man you were traveling with, Dante. So Laurence and I set out to find you. We saw a bunch of wolves outside and took care ofthem… and now… here we are.” Lord Aphmau nodded as he spoke, taking it all in. “If I may…” Garroth began, stealing a glance back at the child who had shook him to his core. “What are you going to do with him?”

“... He’s coming with me.”

Garroth snapped his head back in the direction of his lord and blinked in surprise. “That is… very kind of you…” Though he was still startled, he was in no position to question the Lord. “Very well, we’ll talk later more about Phoenix Drop and your adventures, just… just get some rest.” 

… Lord Aphmau turned to Laurence next. “Laurence…?” She spoke slowly.

“I really thought I had…” He shook his head. “Are you okay, Lord Aphmau?”

She seemed surprised by the question being turned onto her. “Yes… I’m alright, what about you?”

“As am I.” He quickly deflected. “I hear you’re taking in the kid as your own.”

“... I am.” She stood up taller, more confident in her decision now that she was repeating herself. “Very kind. I’ll help you with him, if needed… I’ll let you inform the child of your decision.” 

Lord Aphmau told the spectre of her decision and sat by with him as he fell asleep.

The three guards gave them some privacy as Laurence lowered his weapon first, then Dante, then Garroth. The three men lingered by the bookshelves of their current campsite inside the castle...