Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Heat

People are assigned two genders. The first gender is assigned at birth; male or female. The second gender is one most people get around age fifteen (or sixteen if late); Alpha, Beta, or Omega. Around the same age as they get their grimoires. It is why age fifteen are considered legal adults by law.

Once a month alpha’s and omega’s go through this thing called heat and rut. For alpha’s there is rut. It makes them more primal and territorial than usual. Omega’s have heat that makes them more physically sensitive and fertile than usual. All females have heat but non omega’s call this ovulation. All alpha’s either male or female have rut. All omega’s either male or female, have heat’s and periods. The difference between heat and ovulation is that heat’s have a banana scent to them, meaning heat’s are detectable by scent. Ovulation is not detectable by scent. Heat’s are more focused on comfort than anything. You can ignore ovulation, you can not ignore heat.

Now you may be wondering why I'm explaining this to you. Well I'm glad you asked. I am Finral Roulacase. Age fifteen; a member of the Black Bulls. I am currently going through my first heat. I have been disowned by my blood family and right now I am grateful for that. Not even wanting to imagine who they marry me off too like a prise horse if I stayed with them.

“Yami! I feel horrible! Wwwhhhyyy?” I whined as Henry was eating the soup made for me. But I don’t think I could stomach it. 

“How should I know you damned brat? I’m an alpha. The only thing that really bothered me during my first rut was my groin. It hurt like hell growing a knot. Ask Henry.” Yami didn’t even bother looking up from his newspaper.

Whining, I look towards Henry. He was still eating my soup. For some reason, him eating my food bothers me. I don’t even know why. Henry eating on his own should be something I find, an accomplishment on how far he’s come.

“Why do I feel horrible Henry?” Slowly Henry puts the soup down.

“I …… am ……..  not …… sure …….. Like ……… Captain ……… I ……. was ……. an …….  alpha ……… But …… after …….  I …… got  ….. bitched ……… I ….. never …… got …… a ……. heat …….. do ………. to ……… my …………. condition.” Right, Henry presented as an alpha. 

“People still call it bitching? I thought that had changed.” Yami questions, finally looking up from his newspaper. Bitching: an old term used for a presented alpha transitioning to an omega. Bitched: an old term used for an omega who presented as an alpha.

“It has. But lots of old fashioned people still use the term. People nowadays just call it transitioning.” The words of nobility and royalty were unspoken but heard.

“I ……. like ……. that ………. word …….. better.” I groaned as another wave of heat pain came over me.

“So neither of you could tell me why I feel as though I went around with Yami; without him holding back?” I messed with the turtleneck of my undershirt, hiding my neck away from view. 

“No.” Yami smiled.

“Nope. But imagine how you’ll feel in two weeks. Your period will feel like hell.” I couldn’t help but groan as Yami laughed at my misery. 

“That’s it! I’m gonna nest. Don’t bother me.” Standing up I head out of the kitchen. I am not dealing with Yami right now.

“Oi Henry! Take me to Finral would ya.” It’s been a few hours since Finral just stormed off. While I would normally ignore angerying an omega in heat (ex; Julius and Will) I need these papers done now. And I'm not gonna do them. 

Henry moved the base around to get me to Finral. Opening the door in front of me, I'm led to the roof. Closing the door behind me I search for Finral’s Ki. I look up to where he is. Finral in the corner of the roof napping in a hammock. A few of mine, Henry’s, and his brother's clothes were under him. The banana scent of heat stains the clothes, I can’t even be upset.

I dropped the pile of paperwork on a table next to his nest and left. I don’t even mess with an omega in their nest. Will and Julius made sure to teach me that.

Chapter Text

Angel

At age ten I was really scared. The thought of someone like her could take Langris away from me. I never really cared that she played with me, touched me, disgraced me, whatever you want to call it. It affected me but I never cared. My biggest concern was that she was gonna take Langris away from me. The marks she left on me mentally and physically will heal but not all of them will go away. 

She almost took Langris away. 

And everything kept leading back to that one little thing. Except it wasn’t little. It was everything.  

She touched me. She burned me. She marked me. She practically branded me. Fine. I’ll let her do it all over again if it meant she didn’t take my baby brother away from me. And I made sure my tears never let her touch Langris again.

Which led me to her. She was beautiful. Long curly dark hair that reached her feet when standing. A black lace heartline dress reached the floor. What stood out the most was the pair of black wings with the black splintered halo. All paired with her red eyes, no pupils, and the white of her eyes black; adorned with small black horns sprouting from her head. She truly did look the part of a Fallen Angel. 

Maya. 

Her name. She was my mother’s Fallen Angel contract. I truefully never thought much about her. 

That was till Langris was almost taken from me.

“You called?” Her voice was almost childlike with the curiosity in her tone. 

“I want to make a contract with you.” She raised an eyebrow at that.

“What could possibly have happened for you to want to make a contract with me?” I just shook my head at that. 

“Does it matter? I want to make a contract.” 

“And what can you offer me? A contract each party gets something. What will you give me?” She questions. 

“Nothing. I can’t offer you anything.” She narrowed her eyes at that but kept silent. “Mom asked you to make sure I don’t die. I want your power to keep my brother safe! Your end of the deal will be to make sure I don’t die. Fulfilling Mom’s last request of you.” I hold out a pair of earrings. Small malachite hoop earrings. She narrowed her eyes even farther at the earring that is supposed to symbolize the contract. Then smiled as if she found this situation amusing. 

Maybe to her it was. But I was too desperate back then to really care about anything other than getting enough power to protect my brother.

“There’s more going on here. But I find whatever it is you're doing amusing. So fine. I agree with those terms. You’ll have enough of my power to protect your brother and I’ll fulfill my end of my agreement with your Mother.” The contract was sealed and the earring was proof of that. She giggled as the contract was sealed.

“Thank you.”

My eyes shot open as I awakened from my memory. Five whole years since then. Panting as ice was layering on the walls of my room. Dawn is just breaking through the thick curtains. Leaving my bed I head out of my room. Not bothering with portalling as I walk to the library. I headed straight to my nest as I entered the library; a hammock in the far corner. 

“It’s been years since I've dreamed of that day.” A comfy warm winter blanket and a fluffy pillow were in my nest. The smell of Henry and Yami on them. 

“What the hell are you doing up there?” My head turned to the entrance. It was Yami. 

“Hey.” He raised an eyebrow at that.

“Hey? It’s nearly one.” That got me to shoot up from my nest.

“I’ve been here for that long! It wasn’t even dawn yet when I came in!” I screeched. 

“I’m joking. It’s only ten.” I calmed down a little. Only a little though.

“What’s got you in your nest for so long? It’s not like you to be in your nest outside of heat or after visiting your brother.” 

“Can’t I be in my nest just because?” I raised my eyebrow at him.

“If you were that kind of person to be in a nest just because you would have your nest in your room. You never enter your nest without a reason. So what is it?” 

“I hate how you know me so well.” He smirked at that.

“But you love me anyway. So spill.” I roll my eyes as he blows a puff of smoke.

“Just a memory. One that ain’t particularly lovely.” Yami nodded at that.

“Yeah, I got plenty of those.” I snorted, hiding a smile, with a flick of my wrist a portal behind Yami.

The hammock swings side to side from the added weight of Yami. Darkness seeped into the corner making it far more dark than before. Not that I really mind, dark is safe. All my nests are in some dark corner. Light hurts too much.

“Comfy as always.” Yami got compatible in my nest. It was probably a blatant lie but even Yami knows better than to say a nest is uncomfortable to an omega. Especially if you're invited into said nest. But still the complement makes me preen in pride.

“We have a job today, right?” Despite it being formed as a question it was a statement. One Yami nodded too. 

“Yeah. Some human traffickers.” I hate the sound of that. But it was hard to be worried in my nest. Especially with Yami right next to me. 

“Let me guess. I’m to be used as bait?” I once again phrased it as a question but we both knew it was a statement.

“Yep.” 

“What’s the plan? There is a plan.” Glaring up at Yami he chuckled at that.

“It’s a simple plan really. We head in at sundown. I pretend to sell you; a pretty freshly presented omega with ice magic. We infiltrate them and destroy them from the inside. A few Grey Deer members will storm the place if we're not out in two hours.”

“Later?” Not wanting to get up right now.

“Yeah latter.” We both laid in my nest for hours till it was time for the mission. 

For the mission I wore a simple black collar to cover my neck. A long-sleeved shirt with a deep v-cut that I think would be Yami’s when he was younger if not for the omega scent stained into it marking it as an omega’s shirt. As well as a pair of dark gray leggings. I did not feel comfortable but like most collar’s it blocked my scent from leaking. A cheap alternative for scent patches; a less mentally straining process than blocking your scent on your own.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I led Finral to the house, the meeting being held by his wrist. The rope felt heavy in my hands and I knew something bad was going to happen. Just not what. But I knocked on the door before I could call this whole mission off. I trust Finral to do his job.

The door opened.

“The moon is full.”

“And shining as brightly as the sun.” Was the very lame password they made us say. The guy looked me up and down quickly then turned to Finral. Looking him up and down, slowly. Very slowly.

“Come on in. The boss has been waiting for you.” His eyes never left Finral. Disgusting bastard. Keeping my mouth shut for once I walked inside still holding Finral by the wrists. We were led to a kitchen.

Something was wrong. The guy who opened the door, his ki is calm. There’s no other ki except Finral and myself. Mana levels low. 

But still the edges around my vision were blurry. My movements slow. And I couldn’t turn back a look at Finral, that would blow the cover. Fuck what was wrong. That's when I noticed it. A candle next to a perfume bottle. Sleeping potion. The candle is burning-; the world went dark.

“Uh. I feel like I had the worst hangover.” I sat up rubbing my head. Looking around I saw Finral still tied up a few feet away from me. Next to her was some other random guy. That’s when I realized there’s about a few hundred people around us. Maybe even more.

 “Was the nap time necessary?” I couldn’t help but ask.

“We're a small organization. You can't blame us for wanting to be cautious. Especially with new suppliers. You understand right?” That’s when I notice both mine and Finral’s grimoires are gone.

 “Excessive if I do say so myself but understandable.” I lied, really starting to hate this.

“Great! Now tell us about the product. What did it do to get it here?” God I now really wanted to hurl. But Finral’s still out and I can't leave without him.

“Just some omega kid of some noble bigshot wannabe. Wanted to get rid of the stain on their name or something. Eldest son being born an omega doesn't look good in high society or some shit.” I nod my head to the unconscious Finral; I noticed it then. The blood from his inner elbow. Shit, they drugged him. This is getting more complicated by the minute.

“Pretty enough to be a noble’s kid. What magic does it have?” The person talking was the only person who’s been talking the whole time. Their leader maybe? 

“Ice. Been told absolute zero.” Though that was from Finral himself.

“Oi brat! Wha are ya doin?” He had two small portals next to each other. The portals were about the size of his palm a literal inch away. 

“I’m trying to reach absolute zero.” His breath was a seeable light blue.

“How?” I couldn’t help but ask. The kids got me curious. He paused in his response.

“Do you- Have you ever noticed the higher you fly the colder you get?” He asked, his attention still on his portals.

“Ya?” I actually have noticed that. Though never really questioned it.

“That’s because space is cold and Spatial Magic is space. In space it is around absolute zero all the time. So I thought I could somehow get to absolute zero. I’ve made ice before so I thought I might as well try.” He closed the two portals and finally looked at me. His fingers looked close to frostbite. There was ice around his mouth and his breath was still seeable. Huh. Maybe I should ask Cob about that.

“But I highly doubt I could ever make it to absolute zero. It’s just a pipe dream that I could never achieve.” He got up from the table he was sitting at and left not noticing the frost covering both the table and chair.

“I think ya can make it!” I yelled, touching the ice on the table. 

“Why do you believe in someone like me?” He muttered to himself not intending for me to hear him.

“Absolute zero.” The guy who I’ll just call leader said looking at Finral. At that moment Finral groaned, his rope around his wrist coming undone.

I stood up as the leader walked towards Finral. Deciding fuck it I kicked the guy in the stomach stepping in front of Finral. Out of everything I need to make sure Finral gets out of here.

“Oi Finral! Naptime is over. Wake up!” He groaned at that as he turned to his side. 

“By order of the Magic Knights you are hereby under arrest. And all that crap.” I should really remember the rest of that. But I'm not gonna. I reached for my sword before remembering I didn't bring it with me. Too recognizable, Finral said.

“Shit! Someone stop him!” Some random person in the crowd of people shouted. Oh this is going to be such a pain in the ass without my grimoire.

“Any time now, Snow White. Or do you need a good morning kiss?” I yelled behind me as I knocked some guy into another person. After a few minutes of this the whole ceiling started to groan. Everything was shaking around us and the people stopped.

“Fin-.”

“Shut Up.” Finral hissed behind me. 

“Hey! It’s the omega’s grimoire.” The leader shouted as Finral’s grimoire floated towards him. I looked back at Finral for the first time since the fight.

The tips of his hair looked green. His eyes looked more like a dark purple than light pink. There were a pair of eight black feathered wings on his back that he was facing away from us. The back of his head touching his back as he looked at us with a halo above his head and weg horns, also black.

Skreek!

That noise was when all hell broke loose. Some guy used a spell to hit a loose rock on the ceiling. As it fell feathers spread around the area. Rain was falling. Everything it touched desipared. Rockets kept falling from the ceiling landing everywhere and kicking up dust.

“FINRAL! Get us out of here!” That’s when I felt the full body cold rush that comes with Finral’s portals. The full body cold of a river. Lifting my head out of the water, I noticed the blood in the water. 

“Finral! Finral!” I yelled looking for Finral in the cold water. That’s when I saw him, his foot at the edge of the river bank. Moving my way over there I lift his head from under the water. The cut by the base of her skull was for the case of the blood in the water. I dragged the both of us out of the water. Sitting us both down on the floor I checked Finral’s pulse. Beating.

“Finral do you know where we are?” 

“I always know where I am.” He grumbled out; most likely concussed.

“Can you tell me where we are then?” Even scaring me half to death he's still a brat. Good

“North West.” Oh he’s really pushing it.

“Where exactly north west.” I clarified knowing he ran us around in circles for fun. Even bleeding out he still would be a little shit about it. 

“Eighteen miles of the Heart Kingdom border. Six miles from the great magic region. And two days out of Sosshi.” His words became quieter as he spoke. The directions he gave were not as detailed as they usually are. And he was losing consciousness fast.

“Hey. Hey. Hey. Stay with me kid. Stay with me.” I put his head on my lap to check the wound.

“M’ na a kid.” I laughed at that. Of course he held onto that.

“Hey what was that spell you used? The one with the wings.” I asked, hoping to keep him awake.

“Got no wings.” The words were slurred.

“Can I look through your grimoire? You might have gotten a new spell.” I waited for any reaction at all. Asking to see someone's grimoire in the clover kingdom was a big tabo. Due to the fact that when a person gets matted the person writes their name in blood in their mate's grimoire. It’s a big sign of trust to look through a person's grimoire. And the reaction I got from Finral was almost immident when he processed my words. 

“No! No. NO.” He said in what his current state would be a yell. Moving his head back and forth. I try not to be hurt by that reaction

“Okay. Okay. No looking through your grimoire. Can you tell me why?” He calmed down immediately. Now  no longer worried about him worsening the head wound, I look for the com. Though I can't help but wonder how much trust he has in me to cause such a reaction. 

“Can’t let anybody see. If they see they make me. Don’t wanna. Please don’t make me.” He cried silently. What is in his grimoire that made him react like this.

“I won't make you do anything you don't want. Except to portal me to the bathroom.” He choked on his tears in a laugh. Finding the com, I leaned over to grab it, Finral hissing as I did.

“Sorry.” I muttered moving my position to how it was.

“Hey, will you tell me if those wings of yours are a new spell of an old one?” I talked as I opened the com to call Mushroom Head.

“Ya. I’ll tell ya all the spells I have.” Her Ki rang lying but chocked it up to the most defend concussion she has. 

“Yami! Where are you?! I’ve been calling for almost an hour! Hundreds of people are dead! Multiple people got away. And only ten people alive were captured. And there’s now a hole in the middle of this town! WHAT HAPPENED?!?!” Finral whimpered at Mushroom Head’s yelling.

I rolled my eyes and told him to quit yelling. After that I told him vaguely what happened and where we landed. That Finral most definitely has a concussion and left out the part about his freaking out about his grimoire. I don’t need them looking into him.

“Your squad member is who they are calling the Angel of Death? The people we have in custody are begging to not be let anywhere near him. Do you have any idea what could have caused Finral to act like this? Never mind that’s not important right now. Cob should be there soon and take you to Owen. And tell me about the spell that did this, I need to put it in the report.” Mushroom Head hung up and I couldn't help but curse. Need to come up with some lie about that spell. Maybe it was one of the traffickers' spell misfires. That’s a believable lie. Before I could think about it anymore Cob’s portal opened. 

“Shitty hell.” I lift Finral up realizing that both of us are shaking from the cold. 

“Come on Finral, don't die on me.” I whispered into his ear. Not like he can hear me. He’s passed out. 

Walking through the portal we landed right into the quak’s office. I put him on the patient's bed and left the office knowing there was nothing more for me to do. I cursed mentally when I realized I still don't have either of our grimoires. Mine still with the human traffickers and Finral’s still by the river bank. 

“Hey Cob-.” I cut myself off when I saw that Cob was holding exactly what I was looking for.

“Just what I was looking for. Thanks Cob.” I took them out of his hands.

“No problem! You might want to call William though.” Right, I should fill out the mission report. I walked down to the waiting room still soaked looking down at Finral’s grimoire. 

That green cover with that key in the center. With the three leaf clover. I opened the cover, rubbing it in between my fingers before closing it. Finral will tell me if he wants, I trust him on this. Whatever this is.

I took out my pack of cigarettes before realizing they were as soaked as I am. Sighing I tossed the pack not really caring where they landed. I waited in those uncomfortable chairs waiting for somebody. A few hours in and I can’t help but be relieved that at least Finral’s grimoire is still intact. That’s the only comfort in this.

Soon noon came by and I couldn't sleep intil he’s awake. I got up to get some answers. Walking back to the room I knock. Hearing shuffling the door opened. The quack sighed when he saw me. Wrinkled his nose at the slight distress scent I was most likely letting out.

“He just woke up an hour ago. We’ve been checking his head since. Nothing permanent but you can never be too careful with head wounds. He also doesn't remember yesterday, not surprising but something we want to look at. Discharge will be in a week if nothing pops up. Now leave, he doesn't need you bothering him. Especially now.”

“It’s fine Doc Owen. He can come in. Need to talk to him anyways.” Finral pipped up and the quack just sighed at that. Not wanting to deal with me any longer he leaves.

Sitting down in the visitors chair next to the bed I look at Finral. His hair around the wound was cut making it look slightly like an undercut, has been changed into hospital scrubs, he seems fine other than the fact he looks like a mess. 

“So do you actually not remember what happened or did you just lie?” I couldn’t help asking. It was something he would do. His Ki spiked and he grimsed. The collar on his neck hid his scent from me.

“Didn’t want to deal with it.” Was all he said facing the wall away from me.

“Does it have anything to do with how you reacted to me asking to touch your grimoire?” I held it up and the reaction was imident. He snatched it out of my hand faster than I could react. Didn’t know he could move that fast.

“I didn’t look in it if that’s what you're wondering. Was just carrying it around till I can give it to you. Still curious if those wings are a new spell or not.” he moved his grimoire to face away from me and looked through the pages. A grims appeared on his face as he stopped on a specific page.

“Fallen Angel’s Wings. That's the spell." He still had his grimoire facing away from me.

“Was that the only spell you used?” His Ki was screaming. I shouldn’t push. Whatever answer he gives is the answer I'll take.

“Yes.” 

“Okay then. Then that's what happened. You were in danger, unlocked a new spell, one of the traffickers' spells misfired, then the whole building came down. K.” I patted him on the head, getting up to leave. I was stopped when I reached the door. 

“Wait.” It was a whisper. Almost like he didn’t want to say it. 

“The spell called Fallen Angel’s Tears. It’s Offensive Spatial Magic.” I turned around and faced Finral at that. He continued looking at the wall holding out his grimoire. I sat back down and took the grimoire. 

“Third page from last.” 

Fallen Angel’s Tears

This spell covers a certain area around the user. How large the area covered depends on how much mana the user puts in. Tears of Offensive Spatial Magic fall from the sky in the area. Everything the tears touch would be carved through. One tear carves one centimeter down and across.

“Not really all that offensive from the text but hundreds of those. I’m pretty sure some guys' faces are no longer recognizable.” Finral winced as I said that. I wanted to whistle from being impressed but from the way Finral’s acting about this spell I probably shouldn't. 

“Wouldn’t be the first time.” Now that clearly wasn’t meant to be heard.

“Fallen Angel’s wings?”

“Two pages before.” I flipped the pages.

Fallen Angels Wings

This spell allows the user to form Defensive and Offensive Spatial Magic in the shape of wings. There are eight wings in total and alternate from being Defensive and Offensive. Therefore there are four Defensive wings and four Offensive wings. The wings can not leave the users back and can be used to let the user fly. The halo over the user's head is pure Offensive magic.

“Another offensive spell.” Though this seems more like it’s used for defense. 

“Ya.” He croaked out in agreement. 

“Is there a reason you're sharing this with me?”

“You deserve to know.”

“I really don’t.”

“I trust you. It’s that simple. The least I could do is show you that trust.”

“That is not necessary.” 

“I know” 

“Thank you for sharing.” He shrugged at that. 

“Can we just go home?” Finral’s voice was quiet.

“When you get discharged.” I dropped my robe over Nacht’s shirt. 

“Get some sleep. You need it.” Killing over a hundred people in less than an hour. 

He nodded going back to sleep cuddling my robe. The scent of her pack alpha probably helped him relax.

The Angel of Death slept soundlessly surrounded by the scent of the Lord of Destruction.

Chapter Text

Zenon

I hate shopping. Ugh I forgot my robe. Milk first, pills second. Robe isn't important right now.

“Excuse me, Sir.” I flinched at that, startled at being addressed.

“Yes”

“Was that portal yours?” I winced at that. Wouldn’t be the first time I accidentally cut in front of a person with one of my portals. If I'm lucky, maybe this guy wants to hire me for a transportation job. Wouldn’t be the first time I had to portal perishable food across the kingdom.

“Ah yes. I’m a Spatial mage.” Not surprising the guy asked. In Heart, Diamond, and Clover there should be about sixty million in each kingdom. With Spade being triple that at eighteen million. In Clover there's around one thousand confirmed Spatial mages. With it most likely being the same in Heart and Diamond. With Spade most likely having around three thousand. Meeting a person that’s part of less than one percent of the population is startling even to nobles.

Not the first time I've been stopped for my magic. But it doesn't get any less awkward. 

“I was wondering if you could help me with something? It won't take long. And I pay you too!” 

“Sure. What's up?” Side missions like this are common. Help transport food from the common realm to the noble realm. Move boulders off the road. Transport some fancy noble to a certain place. Take these documenta here. Take me to the bathroom. At this point I think I've to all the noble realm, most of the common and forsaken realm.

“My cart’s wheel broke. It’s just outside town. With all the rocks around it’s hard to move the wheel. I don’t need you to replace the wheel! Just move enough rocks out of the way so I can put the wheel on.”

“No problem!” Do to my magic I don’t know how to ride a horse, fix a wheel on a chart, and flying on a broom is like flying for the first time again. So as long as I don’t have to put the wheel on I'm good.

The two of us walk out of town. Learning from a young age people don't like going through a portal of a person they just met. With the exception being Yami but Yami’s certified crazy. 

“So where ya from?”

“Kikka. And my name is Finral. Finral Roulacase.” I could never say Tota again. Tota is not where I'm from. Kikka the place where the Magic Knight entrance exams are held. The very illegal Black Market. Where I started my future with the Black Bulls. When Finral Roulacase started and Finral Vaude died. Now I introduce myself with my last name as well as my first. I no longer have anything chaining my last name to the tip of my tongue.

“Really? You have more mana than the average commoner Finral.”

“Not by much I'm afraid.” Which is true. Despite being part of a branch family in the Silva clan I have pathetic amounts of mana compared to most other royals. But compared to a noble I'm on a decently low scale. 

“Do you like Kikka?”

“I love it. The black market always has interesting things to look at. And the casino is amazing, my boss sucks at gambling though.”

“Oh. Are you any good?” I once cleaned out the entire casino in one night. 

“Not really. I’m decent. But I couldn't make a living off of it.” Someone would be bound to notice I cheat every game. Yami hates playing against me. Figured out then you could cheat Ki. After I stopped going to the casino with him, he gets to be a bit of a ワルガキ when me and gambling are mentioned.

“Any family?” I wonder how far out the cart is. We are a decent bit out of the town. Then again, I need to exercise more.

“Ya a little Brother. He’s turning fifteen soon. I can't wait to go to his grimoire gifting ceremony.” Only a week away. Oh he grew up so fast.

“No parents?” I got quiet after that. He sure is asking a lot of questions.

“Mom died when I was young. Father is not in the picture.” I think back to my disownment.

“My parents died when I was around that age. My older Brother took care of me. But he’s gone now too. I understand the loss. Sorry for the long walk. But I couldn’t move this rock on my own.” And in front of us is a cart with a broken wheel. Next to a decently sized boulder. Moving toward the rock I crouched. My legs spread as I crouched and I long stopped caring if it’s not really appropriate. My back turned to the guy as I looked at the rock.

“Ky, I can-” I was cut off as I felt something stab me in the neck. Falling my back hit the side of the cart hard.

“Thanks for the help. You will earn me so much money. Spade will love you.” Spade.

“The human traffickers from almost two years ago.” The people they were selling were going to Spade.

“ファック. ちっ.” My voice was fading faster than my consciousness. The man just smiled.

“That is correct, Angel of Death. My Brother and I were one of the traffickers from then. And you killed my Brother. I’m not actually surprised you don't recognize me though. Your magic carved almost half my face off.” He ended the sentence with a kick to my stomach. Groaning as I slid the rest of the way to the floor.

“But one of my leaders is interested in you. We have less than a hundred Spatial mages in Spade. So one who can use both offensive and defensive? Master was very intrigued. And I have the lovel-” That was the last thing I heard as I passed out.

Awaking with a groan I could feel my head fill with fog. I tried to lift my hand but couldn’t. Opening my eyes, all I saw was black still. I felt the unfortunately familiar feeling of rope on my wrist and assumed (correctly) that my ankles are also tied. 

“くたばれ.” Was the first word I groaned. Though I couldn’t tell if that was towards the person kidnapping me or Yami. In the two years I've known Yami I just automatically curse him when things go wrong (as well automatically assume he’s going to fix things too). Should I stop? Probably. Am I going to? No.

“Hey Whore! I’ve been meaning to ask you. What's that language you’ve been speaking? It’s none of the Suits languages. So what is it? Come on cunt i’m curious.”

“Uh. Ah. パンスケ and マンコ. Words that have definitely never been used against me before! What’s next? Are you going to call me a ビッチ? Ah they hurt, please stop. My one weakness! Words!” I spoke in the most exaggerated tone I have. My performance was rewarded with my back slamming into something metal. I couldn’t help but laugh. I really am a petty mesu.

“Stupid bitch. I can’t wait till the Masters get a hold of you. Maybe they’ll rip that tongue of yours out!” He kicked me in the stomach once again and I knew if he did that one more time he’ll creak a rip.

"おい、ろくでなし野郎。くたばっちまえ！そうすれば、クソ野郎になって死ねるかもしれない。このバカ野郎！" I broke out in a near hysterical laugh. The one Yami would use if he’s having fun in a fight.

“You use your mouth a lot. Who knows, maybe they’ll put that mouth of yours to good use!” That quieted my laughter. I don’t want to go through that again. 

“You seem really interested in my mouth. What, you going to watch? Does that get your jollies off. Ooh kinky! But I'll have to decline. I have zero standards and I wouldn't even go for you.” I laugh again internally praying my smart mouth doesn't get me in trouble. And if it does, it’s all Yami’s fault. He pulled me up from the cold metal ground by my hair. Even with my blindfold on I could tell he was annoyed.

“One of these days your smart mouth is going to get you into trouble. And I want to be there when it does.” He dropped me.

“クソ食らえ、クソ野郎。!” I yelled through my laughter. I’m terrified but damned fuck am I going out big. If I die here, I’m dying Black Bull style! Loud, obnoxious, annoying as my people as possible, with as much property as possible.

My laughter quieted to a halt as I heard the man's footsteps leave. I hope Yami and the other’s have noticed my absence by now. Have I even been gone that long? Ugh, I wished I traveled the Greater Magic Regions more. I only have a vague idea of where we are to my farthest tether in Clover. And I'm starting to feel cold. I want Yami. I want Gordon. I want Vanessa. I want Henry and the base. I even want Zora! We're getting closer to Spade by the minute.

“ファック! Is Spade always this cold?” Now more than ever am I wishing for my robe. ファック it’s so cold. 

“No, it's even colder in the winter. Now move it.” There was a rope attached to the rope tying my wrist together. He pulled on that leading me like a dog on a leash. I was almost tempted to bark but knew I was pushing my luck as it was.

Moving along with the pull of the rope I for once wisely kept my mouth shut. Oh how Yami would be disappointed in me. I almost snickered at that thought. These past few days have been a nightmare. Or so I've assumed it’s been a few days. All I did was count the amount of time’s i’ve been fed.

Food’s been given three times a day, I think and I'm pretty sure he wanted to throw me out a window at least five times an hour. And Yami would be oh so proud of that when I get back home. I hope it’s when I get back home. 

There’s now metal under my feet. No more snow sinking into my boots. These shoes were made for Clover’s only snows in the forsaken realm weather. The metal contraption (the best I could describe it) was different from the one we just left. And by different I mean it’s just a second one.

“Let us go! We have no more mana left to give! What more do you want?!” The girl was young. She most likely hasn’t presented. That made my heart ping. I most likely missed Langris's grimoire gifting ceremony by now. Even if I didn’t there’s no way for me to make it back to still make it in time.

Despite my grimoire being taken I could still open portal’s and that’s exactly what I did. Using my very limited magic and Ki sensing skills I opened a portal under the person the girl was talking to. I could feel Maya smirking through our bond. 

“Tell me, is your dick so small that you have to pick on little girls to make yourself feel big? Or are you just naturally a douche?” These metal walls are blacking my magic and even outside of them I would need my grimoire to back it back anywhere close to Clover. 

“What so I should pick on you instead? Is that it?” 

“If you're asking if I’m offering my mana then yes.” As much as I hate the idea of my mana being used to help Spade, I will help these people. 

“Fine then. You can come with me!” The (i’m gonna call him big man) big man tried pulling his foot from my portal and then I closed it. With his foot still partly still in it. Effectively cutting off part of it.

Unlike Cob, my portal's edges are deadly. If Cob closes a portal with a body part still in then that body part will be pushed back with the rest of the body. My portal’s on the other hand will just carve the body part that is still on the other side. Completely gone.

“Whoops.” I say with a smile on my face. While I am internally trying to not throw up. I earned my name Angel of Death. But I think this is the first time I’ve ever actually leaned into it. 

“You arrogant BASTARD!” The guy who kidnapped me (let's call him Bob because why not) grabbed me by the hair and slammed me into some glass. 

“Put the omega in! I’m taking him to the infirmary. I want us moving in five minutes!” Bob shouted, then two other guards(?) picked me up and moved me. 

“Hey kid! Aim low!” I shouted as loud as I could hoping the girl heard me. That advice Yami gave me might just come in handy. Always aim low. The guards threw me and my back and head landed on cold metal.

“Oi!” Was my response as I sat up. An empty grimoire holder never felt heavier. That's when I felt it. My mana was being drained from me. So that’s what the girl meant by no more mana.

I sit alone in that room for what may be hours. Hours alone with the voices are not good. I hate the voices in my head, they are rarely kind. They always sound like Father, Step mother, and Langris. The nice one that actually has been showing up more lately sounds like Yami

“Oi! We made it to the edge of town. Get him out of that room. The lord wants him alive.” My hearing was on the fritz. Everything sounded like it was underwater. How long have I been in this room? I could hear them laughing at my distress scent. Or I think they're laughing, it could just be some squeaky machinery. 

I could feel a pair of arms grab me and lift me up. Not fighting it as a hunger and tiredness I never felt before hit me. It took most of my almost nonexistent energy to keep up with whoever. 

“Not so snarky now?” Oh, it was Bob.

“Shovet Bob.” I very elegantly said. 

“Bob?”

“That’s what I call ya in my head.” I could feel his disbelieving look behind the blindfold. 

“That was the best name you could come up with?”

“One off villains without good looks get zero name creativity.” Truthfully I was just lazy.

“Omegas. Can’t be trusted to do anything.” I’m too tired to be pissed. Treat me differently because I'm Finral, fine. Treat me differently because I'm an omega, that’s different. As much as I want to fight I can’t, too much of my strength has been taken.

My feet met the snow again. So freaking cold. I didn’t even have enough energy to shiver. My mana was still so low. Bob dragged me to sit in a wooden cart. I swear if I go home riding a wooden cart I will scream irony off the top of my lungs.

The cart moved and shook whenever a person got on. I could feel the wood next to my grimoire holder and a person on the other side of me. Times like this I’m grateful for my water affinity. The cold bothers me less than if I wasn’t. The cart moved this time, it was from the horses(?) pulling the cart.

I put my head back feeling fabric. This cart must have a roof over it. That explains why there's no snow landing on me. Sighing, I rest my head on the fabric.

“Hey.” 

“Ya?” 

“Why did you do that?” Still hearing everything like it’s underwater it took me a minute to place that voice. It was the girl's voice.

“Just my job, Kid.”

“You're crazy. You know that right?”

“Oh you have no idea, Kid.” I let out a small chuckle that ended up as a cough.

“You're not from around here are you?” 

“Na. How’d ya figure?” 

“Nobody stands up to the guards anymore. The Spade rebellion would not have stepped in as recklessly as you did. So you had to have been a foreigner.”

“Didn’t know Spade had a rebellion. But then again I don't know much of Spade.” The only thing I know is their language. And that’s probably out of date by eleven or so years. Fuck, I'm tired. It probably showed in my voice too. 

“Let the omega rest. The first time in that room is always the hardest.” A man’s voice spoke. It was hard to tell who’s scent was who’s. In such close quarters, scent just merges.

“You must have a lot of mana. Are you a noble or royal?” The girl ignored the man.

“No. Just a commoner.” Technically I’d be a peasant because of disownment, but nobody would ever believe I was a peasant. 

“Oi! You two quit talking or I gag you both!”

“Very kinky, Bob. But I am not interested.” My voice was going. It sounded ragged and made it hard to talk with this cold air.

Shuvet you arrogant whore!” I yawn at that. More along the lines of actually being tired then to him. But hey, timing.

“Are you the one they call the Angel of Death?” Now that was probably the question the girl wanted to ask from the beginning.

“I highly doubt the rumors about me are true. But yes.” I felt small rough hands touch my face. Fingers at the edge of the blindfold.

“Why do you have this on?” She moved her thumb up and down my cheek. Her wrist touched my face and didn’t feel any ropes. None of the Spade kingdom really doesn't fight back if they are left unchained.

“Eye’s are the window to the soul, Child. My magic was made with sight in mind. Being blinded makes them feel far stronger.”

The girl removed her fingers from my face. Blindfold still on. My eyes felt heavy as my darken world faded to black.

I was awakened rudely by Bob. Dragged me and just threw me in a room and left me. Thankfully the room is warm. Hands still tied, blindfold still on, and grimoire still gone, I can't really do much of anything. Board sitting on the floor. That’s when I felt it.

In that split second I jumped to my feet. A portal was opening. Without hesitation I kicked right where the portal was opening. Oh how I've never been more grateful for Yami’s (now) mandatory self defense training. The person who opened the portal caught my foot before it could make contact.

Curse Yami’s self defense training.

“That’s high mana sensing skills you have. Not the best I've ever seen, I'll admit.” He dropped my foot and I jumped away from him.

“And who are you?” 

“My name is Zenon Zogratis. What is your name, Omega?”

“Finral Roulacase.” I try not to skawal at the use of my gender.

“I felt an angel possessed come into Spade but I wouldn’t think the dual wielding Spatial mage would be the one caring the angel.” 

“Yes, well I didn’t earn the name Angel of Death for nothing after all.” I scoffed. My heart is beating out of my chest. Every instinct in me is screaming to run. There’s no mana except for the natural mana around us. He’s shown no signs of attacking and I still feel like I'm about to be beheaded and never knowing when. The scent of him reeks of blood, flesh, and boone.

“I would say that was true but your grimoire suggests otherwise. Fallen Angel’s Wings was the spell used to get your name.”

“You looked through my grimoire?!” I took a step forward but stopped when I felt it. He was opening my grimoire.

“You have a spell similar to my own. Your Fallen Angel’s Hideaway is similar to my Spatial Mana Domination. Though your spell is more for defense and information gathering than offense. With this spell, the user creates their own hideaway. The hideaway can vary in size. Every time the user opens a portal a door or window will appear in the hideaway, making this spell not suited for capture. Nobody can enter the hideaway without permission.” 

Fallen Angel’s Illusion plus Fallen Angel’s Gate! 

I could hear the flapping of the pages in my grimoire as the spells were cast. Then a wosh and my spell was canceled. My grimoire closed, landing in his hands again. 

“Fallen Angel’s Illusion makes it look like you're opening a portal but you're not. Just like how Fallen Angel’s Mirror allows you to open a window like portal for you to see what is happening on the other side of the portal but nothing can go through. You are a support mage that specializes in defense and information gathering. With only two or more accurately one and half offensive spells. Even now it would have been more effective to activate Fallen Angel’s Wings or Fallen Angel’s Tears. Yet you didn’t.”

This bastard read my whole grimoire! All of my spells! 

“What the fuck! You bastard! You read my grimoire without my permission then rub it in my face. After having me kidnapped! Not even having the decency of letting me see your face. What do you even want from me?” I ignored my instincts screaming at me to run and lunged at him. Waving my tied hand at what was hopefully his head, I knew before I even finished lunging that I wasn’t going to hit him. The portal opened and I tripped landing on something soft. Was-was it a bed?

I could feel fingertips touch my face. The fabric fell from my face revealing the face of my captor. Zenon is tall with messy black hair. On the left side of his forehead and extending down across his left eye was a black, cross-shaped mark. He's wearing a black shirt with a high collar, black pants, and brown boots. A dark blue fur coat with a short, light gray fur mantle on top and a Spade on the left breast. 

I was scared. I knew - I just knew he was stronger than me. Not even because he was an alpha. Or the scent of blood. Just his sheer presence.

“There are two reasons for your kidnapping.”

“And is one of them going to be killing me for stopping your trafficking ring?” If so, please don’t.

“That will depend on your answer.” His free hand was next to my head as I lay on my back. The other hand was occupied by my closed grimoire.

“Reason one. You are a strong Spatial mage. There has never been in the history of Spade of someone having both Offensive and Defensive Spatial magic.” 

“Ya. That was the point of my mother and fathers marriage. To make a mage who could use both types of Spatial magic.” Not like either of them knew they succeeded. I didn’t get my magic till I was six after mothers had been dead for years. And I purposefully hidden it from my father when I first used it at ten.

“But what does being a decent Spatial mage have to do with kidnapping me?!” I really wanted to force open a portal but my mana still drained from whatever they did on the way here, I haven’t eaten (what I am assuming) all day, and I still have no clue where the fuck I am.

“I want you to join Spade’s army.” My eyes widened at that. Mouth open to answer but so shell shocked I couldn’t speak.

“That is the first reason I had you kidnapped. Reason two is a little more personal than the first one. As my older Brother would crudely put it “I want you to become my mate.” He used two fingers from the hand holding my grimoire to air quote. Is this the time to use a damned air quote!

“The priority of finding a mate is low. More along the line of we hope to find one but wont go out of our way to find one. That kind of low. But we are all looking for partner’s with similar enough magic to ours to produce a strong enough child to take over the throne. All of us have rare magic and then you came along dual wielding both types of Spatial magic and angel possessed. You caught my eye.” I’m now suddenly very scared about our position. 

My back on the bed with him looming over me. An arm blocking the sight of the door. A closed grimoire in my enemies hand with very little mana. Almost zero fighting capabilities and far too tired to put up a decent fight. If he decided to do something or anything to me I wouldn’t be able to do anything to stop him. Or at least anything significant. Voice still trapped in my throat from fear I can’t say anything. Not like a call for help would be useful.

“Think about my offer. From the way the soldier who brought you was talking you’ve got a lot of fight in you. I wanna see it. Hopeful on the same side.” He portaled away still holding my grimoire. I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding. After a few minutes of deep breathing I could finally speak.

“I have never wished I was an alpha till now.” This whole what I'm still assuming week has been a nightmare.

“I am too tired to deal with this. I’m going to sleep.” I should probably saw away at the ropes but I am far too tired for that. I get up from the bed and crawl under the bed. Better safe than sorry.

I’m not sure how long I was asleep but I woke up feeling Spatial magic. From the scent it was Zenon. Moving farther back till I hit the wall I waited as Zenon moved. He placed something metal on the table next to the bed. Soon a non scented blanket and a blanket with Zenon scent covered my vision on the floor next to the bed. 

“My elder sister is an omega. You most likely won't nest till you feel safe or enter heat but I figured you would appreciate the gesture nonetheless.” He then stepped back from the bed. I didn’t move and neither did he. The room I was in smelled musty meaning it had not been used in some time. Probably a guest room. The only thing that smelled like Yami was myself and what only smelled like Zenon was the blanket and Zenon himself.

Do I? I couldn’t help but ask myself. The food smelled delicious. But it was unknown if there was anything wrong with it. But nothing but eating stale bread for days, I'm really tempted to not care if it’s drugged. My grimoire still gone and my hands still tied was probably the only uncomfortable thing I have.

I slowly moved from under the bed. Just enough to grab the unscented blanket. That was when I felt a surge of mana. Frozen I stare at the bone between my hands; effectively cutting the rope holding them.

“I figured you would prefer it if your hands weren’t tied. As a Spatial mage I know how important our hands and sight are.” He lifted the bone leaving a slight dent in the floor. The rope fell off to the floor. I took the unscented blanket and headed back under the bed. All making sure to keep him in my eye line. Zenon stayed there for about an hour doing nothing but standing there. Not making me eat, or mate him, or releasing his scent more than what is naturally released, or even convincing me to join Spade. I waited another hour after he left to get out from under the bed.

The blanket was warm. The room had its own attached bathroom. Even had a bookshelf with a few books. Sighing I decide to skip what might most definitely be a drugged meal. I want to drink with Vanessa. I want to talk about plants and their edible remedy with Gordon. I want to see Henry walk on their own without any help! I want to go HOME!

Walking over to the bookshelf I grab a book and read. Something or another in there has got to have something useful. My limited knowledge of the Spade language made it difficult to understand the words. Having to go back and reread some of them and trying to find meaning through context. It made getting through even one book difficult. Soon night fell and I could feel the mana move. Zenon was arriving; by habit I used what little mana I replenished and camouflaged myself while hiding under a chair next to the bookcase.

Zenon's back was turned towards me. I couldn’t see his face but I knew he was looking at the unwanted food. He put a fresh plate of food on the table next to the old one. Turning towards me I could swear he could see through the illusion. 

“You need to eat.” Was all he spoke as he looked towards my direction. Taking the cold food he grabbed the spoon from the soup and ate. Nothing was left after five minutes. I still didn’t leave. After half an hour Zenon broke the silence.

“That magic covering you. It’s Dark magic is it not?” I narrowed my eyes at that.

“My pack alpha.” Vague but still an answer.

“You're drenched in it. I only knew you were a Spatial mage do to your grimoire and the person who brought you here.”

I didn’t answer this time and he didn’t continue. Another half hour and he left; dropping the illusion I moved out from under the chair. My scent glands are starting to get irritated from the scent patches. Staring at the food my stomach growls; I eat the soup. Grabbing books upon books I move under the bed, reading till I fall asleep. 

Once again being awoken by Zenon entering the room. I could smell the food. “You ate the food. That’s good.” He just stood there for the next hour in silence. When he was about to leave I stopped him.

“Where’s my grimoire?” It was a reach, truthful I didn’t expect an answer. But nonetheless I asked the question burning in my mind. After a few minutes of silence I didn’t expect an answer.

“In my study.” Then he left. A few moments later I came out from under the bed. Next to the food was the coat Zenon was wearing when I first met him along with some clothes. A black turtleneck, a brown jacket, black pants, and knee-high boots. As much as I hate the idea of wearing Spade clothing, it’s more warm then my clover clothing. 

I head to the bathroom. The idea of using the shower when anyone can come in at any time does not appeal to me. But I need to get clean, taking a shower as quickly as I can. My scent glands feel as if they're on fire. Guess that’s the reason why you're not supposed to wear the same scent patch for more than a day.

Leaving the brown jacket I put on everything else. I froze midway through tying the laces on the boot. An alpha getting an omega clothing outside of gifting holidays is a sign of courting. Fuuuuk, I’m wearing Zenon’s courting gift. 

The food’s probably been a courting gift too. An alpha is supposed to provide for an omega. Food, shelter, and clothing. How is it that I'm just now realizing this? Right, looking for ways to escape.

“Damn it.” I continue reading the books hoping to find something to escape in there.

A few days pass. Zenon comes in with food three times a day and spends an hour just waiting then leaves. I eat the food then look around the room or read trying to find an escape route. After reading all the books in the bookcase I realized it was a waste of time. Moving on to the vent. It’s probably more stupid than the books but it’s the best I got. 

“I’m slightly disappointed.” Zenon spoke as he brought me dinner. I didn’t respond. Wasn’t sure how to really. He didn’t really speak all that often during these visits.

“With the way the soldiers were talking and how our first meeting was, I expected you to fight more.”

“Patience is a virtue few have. I know when to run, when to fight, and when to stay.” I might be only seventeen, I might be a coward, I might disappoint everyone I meet, but I do have pride.

 It’s just buried under a kingdom's worth of self-loathing.

Zenon huffs at that. “I want to see you fight. I know you can.” With that he left. After a few minutes I stood up from the chair I was sitting in, not even questioning when I stopped hiding when Zenon came in.

Moving towards the vent I finish unscrewing it. With a last minute thought I grabbed Zenon’s coat. Not liking the fact I was wearing a giant glow in the dark signal to everyone that said I’m Zenon’s but I plan on escaping and the coat is warm. Plus people might question me less if I smell like one of their monarchs. Crawling into the vent was a tight squeeze. Uncomfortably so but I needed to leave. Hiding my mana was easy, it helped that Zenon’s scent was caking me. 

Reaching an empty hallway I portal down from the vent. Dusting myself off I walk as calmly as I can. Evening my breath I looked for Zenon’s mana. Not sensing him in the castle I head to where his mana is the most located. Hoping I'm heading to his office and not his room. 

I get looks and stares from people but nobody questions me when they get a whiff of Zenon’s scent. Looking around I noticed no one had blond hair. I could feel them staring at my hair. A mark of a foreigner. Id this how Yami feels. It's too late to change it now. That would only cause more questions.

Almost sighing in relief when I see the door. No one double takes when I open the door. I did sigh in relief when it was in fact Zenon’s office. Without much thought I marked the room. Throwing the calm act out the window I tore through the office trying to find my grimoire. Going behind the desk I froze at the voice.

“Are you looking for something? Are you perhaps looking for this?” I turn at that. My grimoire. In Zenon’s hands. Just on the opposite side of the desk.

“Was that obvious, hu?” I probably was. I mean, I walked through the front door.

“No. Not really. When you marked the room I noticed you. I have my office spelled so whenever a spatial mage marks the room I know.” I let my annoyance show on my face. Marking the office was a habit, something done without thought. And it ruined my chance at escape.

Zenon put my grimoire on the desk knocking me out of my spiraling. He slid it over to me with the tips of his fingers. I looked up at him with a raised eyebrow.

“What’s the price?” He was giving me my freedom. But I won’t come free. Zennon huffed, I’m pretty sure that could be considered his laugh.

“A mating bite.” I tensed at that.

“Scar?” Scar is a term used for when a mating bite is bitten so hard or so often that the only scent coming from the scent gland is the person who bit. A Scar unlike a normal bite will never fade.

“No. Just a normal bite.” I tried to hold back the sigh of relief, but couldn't hold back the tension leaving my shoulders. A normal bite can easily fade with years to months. Or can be overwritten by another person bitten in that same spot. I picked up my grimoire showing my acceptance of the deal.

Zenon leaned over the desk. Baring my neck showing my submissiveness and acceptance. Wincing as he removed the scent patch. My scent gland was most probably damaged in some form. I bit back a scream as Zenon marked me. My fingers dug into his back, swearing I could feel blood underneath them.

“You're free to go.” Licking the wound close. I panted looking out the window. I portaled beneath the tree.Then again outside castle grounds. Panting as I could feel the bond beginning to form.

My grimoire flew open. A new spell was forming. I’m not sure how to feel about this. Fallen Angel’s Secret Treasure. Fuck it, anything to keep my mind off the forming bond. I moved my fingers to the map. Moving  my fingers to the edge of the map and moving them all the way in. It showed the four suit kingdom’s. I moved to Diamond. Nothing. I did the same thing with Heart. Nothing as well. Clover light up like a Christmas tree. It looked like a map of clover you get from Clover. Light green dots all over the map that match places I've tagged with my magic. A big Black Bulls insignia where the hideout was with a green dot. And tinier Black Bulls insignia all over Clover also all with green dots. 

Out of curiosity I clicked on one of the tinier insignia’s. The Clover capital was now a two-d map infront of me with the word Yami by the castle. I moved the map back out and noticed a compass in the corner. The map was of course in my black and green color scheme. I clicked on Spade. Only a border town and the castle were in light green dots. I moved to a gray and fading map of the Greater Magic Regions. Only the parts I know were mapped and everything else was a blank gray like Diamond and Heart.

I used my strength and opened a portal. Plopping right in my nest in the far reaches of the roof. Passing out right after.

Waking up in the morning I stretched. I have no clue how long I've slept but I should tell them I made it home. But first changing out of the Spade clothing and hiding this mark. Hiding the mark first. Portalling to my room I immediately change out of the Spade clothing. My normal clothing left in Spade I changed into one of Yami’s tank tops that got added in with my laundry, sweats, and a sweater. Portalling the Spade clothing in my hideaway I look at the damage done to my scent glands. 

The bite had closed, red around the bite swelling slightly. Very irritated and sensitive. My other glands were irritated, sensitive and swelling. I put a collar around my neck to hide his scent. My heat will be starting soon. Leaving my room all I could do was pray they don’t ask too many questions.

“Yami.” His head snapped towards me at the sound of my voice.

“How long have I been gone?” It feels like months. Maybe a year, even. But it hasn’t. 

“You’ve been gone for three weeks!” Yami jumped off the couch storming up to me.

“Do you know how long I’ve had to go with a broom?” Jackass.

“Don’t ever be gone that long without permission again.” Yami used his alpha command, forcing me to obey. It was weak and easily breakable, done on purpose, but I didn’t fight it. I leaned into the command and into Yami.

“Good job coming back to us, Finral.” 

“Always.” I fell asleep again in Yami’s arms.

Chapter Text

Water Temple

“Why do I feel horrible!?” Asta whined as the banana scent of heat waffed from him.

“How should I know, Dumbsta?” Noelle who has yet to present snapped. Vanessa giggles at that. Magna just rolls his eyes and Luck is trying to steal Magna’s robe.

“You're presenting Asta.” I clarified seeing as how nobody else would. 

“So that’s why everything smelled super charged!” I had to hold back my laugh at that comparison.

“That’s right. You, like most of our squad, are an omega.” That got Noelle to look at me.

“I thought most of the squad are beta’s?” I waved my hand in a so so motion.

“Yami and Magna are alpha’s. Humans are the only beings that have secondary genders so Witches don’t have one but if they did Vanessa would be an alpha as well. Gordon, Gray, Gauche, and Charmy are beta’s. Myself, Luck, now Asta, and two others you haven’t met are omega’s.” Zora would most definitely not like Noelle just because she’s royalty. And Henry hasn’t been feeling well lately.

“If you think this is bad just wait till you get your period, Asta.” Vanessa drunkenly sang.

“What’s a period?” Noelle paled at the question. Magna stopped fighting with Luck to get his robe back and ran out of the base at the question. Luck followed him.

“A flow of blood from the uterus, occurring in nonpregnant people typically lasting for a few days. All women and male omega’s get it.” Asta nodded his head.

“Oh, that. Sister Lilly always calls them monthlies.” I nodded my head at that. Some people still use the old term for it. Period is a new term after all.

“Speaking of which. What do you use for your period anyway Noelle. And what would you like to use for your period, Asta.” Asta looked confused and Noelle looked like she wanted to be anywhere but here.

“To stop your bleeding from staining your clothing. There are pads. Narrow pieces of material adhere to your underwear. Some have wings that fold over the sides of your underwear to prevent leaks and stains. Pads can be disposable or reusable. Another one is tampons. Small plugs made of cotton that you insert into your vagina to absorb menstrual blood. Some tampons come with applicators for easier insertion. They have a string attached for easy removal. You can wear tampons during water activities and sports. 

Period Underwear or Menstrual Panties. These are like regular underwear but have extra layers of fabric to absorb menstrual blood. They come in different absorbency levels for light, medium, or heavy flow days. You can wear them alone or with a tampon or menstrual cup. And speaking of menstrual cups. They are shaped like little bells or bowls, made of rubber, silicone, or soft plastic. You wear them inside your vagina, and they collect menstrual blood. Most cups are reusable, while some are disposable. Henry and I prefer the reusable menstrual cups. Charmy and Luck prefer tampons. While Vanessa and Grey use period underwear.”

“Oh. We didn’t have enough money for any of that. Sister Lilly used rags to stop the bleeding.” 

“Well period products will be taken straight out of your pay. During shopping once a month we buy it with everything else. Saves us the trouble. Luck prefers tampons because it’s easier to fight in so I recommend those for you. I use menstrual cups because while they are more expensive they are less expensive than buying tampons over and over again. Vanessa prefixes the underwear because - well she’s Vanessa.” I say as Noelle, Asta, and I look at the drunk Vanessa in her underwear. 

“I use menstrual cups.” I nodded.

“I’ll add that to the list. Asta?” 

“Can I try those tampons?” I smiled and nodded again.

“Of course. Now come on, let's get you a nest.” Asta nodded.

“So what do you want for a nest?” I asked as we moved to Asta’s room.

“I’m not sure? What does everyone else do for a nest?” 

“Well Henry’s nest is the house. Zora’s nest is a blanket and pillow on the floor with a bunch of trap spells around it. Luck’s nest is mainly Magna’s clothes, specifically his robe, jacket, and shirts, all piled up in a corner. While my nest is a hammock in a dark corner under the roof with a thick winter blanket, a fluffy pillow, and Yami’s spar robe. Nests are just what make you feel safe and comfortable.” Asta nodded.

“Like clothes from the squad?” I blushed at the trust. Especially since Shossi village was only a few days ago.

“Yeah. If you want. There’s some dirty laundry you can dig through for your nest. It’s what I do anyway.” That’s what we did for the next half hour. Looking through dirty laundry for Asta’s nest.

That was Asta. He was far easier than Noelle. She has presented as an omega. Not surprising considering all three of her elder siblings are omega’s too. It was a nightmare getting the thing’s for Noelle’s nest.

We first did what was common for freshly presented omega’s. Grabbed a bunch of blankets and pillows and made a circle. Common for omega’s that have just presented and instincts have not settled. Though after the third or fourth heat that usually changes to fit the omega’s preference of safety.

That failed.

After that we tried Asta's, that’s common for freshly presented omega’s as well. Noelle did not want to use dirty laundry. And did not want to ask for anyone's clothes.

So that failed.

We tried a waterbed. It popped and Noelle fell in.

Yeah. It failed.

It’s not that I'm annoyed. An omega’s nest is special to each individual person. Sure sometimes there is some overlap with another’s nest but humans are complex creatures. There is not one nest fits all.

The royal capital had been attacked yesterday. It’s normal for something so traumatizing to force a person to present. It happened to Asta in Sosshi. Sighing, I sit and think of what’s safe.

Yami’s safe. Yami keeps us safe.

With that thought in mind I grabbed a table and a few soft blankets.The table had a thick blanket over it making it impossible for you to see in or out. Under the table there is a thick soft blanket and a fluffy pillow. Similar to the ones I use for my nests.

A few hours later, Noelle was found asleep in the nest.

It made me relax knowing they feel comfortable nesting. 

Maybe that is why I shouted the words.

“ASTA!!” I shouted as Asta faced Veto.

“PUT YOUR TRUST IN ME!” Those memories of making a nest together flit through my mind.

“TOO LATE! I ALREADY TRUST YOU!” I couldn’t help the tears flowing down my face as he said that. Those memory’s flutter through my mind. I knew Asta trusted me, otherwise he wouldn’t nest.

Omega’s don’t nest if they don’t feel safe.

“ASTA!”

I’m not sure when but after hugging Yami I passed out. Waking up I could feel my robe not on me. Panicking, I shot up from the bed as my hand went straight to my neck. I let out a sigh of relief when I felt my collar still on. 

Looking around I noticed all the Black Bulls were all around me. Vanessa was in her underwear, her clothes on a desk next to her. Not surprising. Luck crawled into bed with Magna. Not surprising. Grey is hiding under the bed. Not surprising. Everyone but myself is in a state of unconsciousness. 

Asta, Yami, and Noelle aren’t here. I slowly get up, steading myself on the wall. I needed to find them. While I might not be Vice Captain, no matter how many times people say that I am, I am still pack omega. I need to look out after them. 

Moving slowly out of the room, not because I don't want to get caught, because I can’t move any faster. Quietly opening the door so as to not wake the others I move to find Yami, Asta, and Noelle. Asta’s probably out cold. Yami’s most definitely smoking. Noelle’s probably denying she has a crush, that is if she’s still awake.

Stupid rules.

Rule one. Omega’s are to be with Alpha’s.

Rule two. Beta’s can only be with Beta’s.

Rule three. Omega’s can’t lead.

And so many fucking more. Noelle’s trying to kill her crush before she gets disowned. Which is fucking stupid. We are the Black Bulls. We only follow rules because we want na. Luck and Magna like each other because they're both dumbasses, not because they're Alpha and Omega. One of them could be a beta and they still like each other.

I need to talk to Noelle and get those stupid educecit rules out of her head. It’s funny. The only relationship in the Bull’s is a traditional one. Though Luck and Magna aren’t dating, yet, they are still Alpha and Omega. Funny how life works out sometimes. 

She worked so hard to find a bathing suit to impress Asta with and he is an oblivious idiot. Like always. I tried not to smile when I noticed Yami staring at my collared neck. Magna was most definitely staring at Luck. Hard. 

“Yami.” I heaved out. Oh fuck. I didn’t realize in my reminiscing and worry that there was pain in,well, everywhere.

“What are you doing out of the infirmary?” 

“Noelle. Asta. Not there. Where?” My words came in painted breaths.

“Calm down, Wheels. The brats are just fine. There with the old priest's grandkids.”

“The kid that got her throat ripped out and the kid that had his leg ripped off?” Okay, I could have and should have worded that less bluntly. 

“Yep. Those two. They're safe now, Finral.” I breathed a sigh of relief at that but the tensen didn’t fade from my shoulders. Yami of course did not miss that.

Hand on my head he spoke. “Good Omega. Looking after your pack.” There was no hiding my blush as I leaned into the head pats. 

“Such a good Omega. Looking after the pack in battle.” I was purring now.

“Pack’s safe now. You can relax now. Pack’s safe.” Closing my eyes I leaned into Yami’s head pats. Purring in content I could feel Yami starting to chuff as well. 

“Good Omega.” My face was bright red at the continued praise Yami was giving me. Feeling my back against the wall Yami leaned over.

“My good Omega.” I couldn’t help the moan that left my lips. Arousal was evident in Yami’s scent. Yami always has his scent in control, you don’t smell it unless he wants you too. My lips were starting to get wet; I couldn’t help but squeeze my thighs to get rid of the tension.

“My good pretty omega. Always looking after our pack.” Our pack. Our pack. Our pack.

“Good - good omega for - for you. Good omega for you.” All Yami was doing was petting my head and keeping me trapped against a well. Why am I already puddy in this man’s hands? I opened my eyes (when did I close them?) and Yami was staring at me. Expectantly. 

Does - does he want me to make the first move?

I whined standing on my toes (have I been barefoot this whole time?) to kiss him. It started small and light. My hands moved from his back to his neck (I think I might have a concussion, when did my hand get to his back?) to deepen the kiss.

The kiss broke with me panting even more red faced. I am horny, I am wet, I am pretty sure I have a concussion, and I wanted Yami. It was odd. It was stupid. I’m not even sure when my feelings for Yami went from platonic to romantic. All I knew was that I love Yami, for years and now Yami was reciprocating it.

Yami kissed me again and again on the lips. Still trapped against the wall, my fingernails are digging into Yami’s scent glands. Moving his lips from mine he trailed down. Cheek to chin. Chin to collar. 

Without thought I move to present my neck. Summiting me to him. Moving one of his hands from the wall to my neck, he removed the collar. One hand on my waist, the other still on the wall Yami kissed my scent glands.

“Yami!” I was purring like crazy, my face redder than Captain Vermillion's hair, underwear soaked wet, and my scent filled with arousal.

“I always wondered what you smelled like. Always wearing scent patches or collars to hide it. Don’t hide it any more, I want to smell you. My good omega.”

“Yes! Yes! Yes! Your good omega.” I was whining now. 

Yami kept kissing my neck. It most likely has left a mark now. Don’t care now, can’t care now, care later. Moving his lips from left to right I move my neck for easier access. He froze as he saw my right scent gland. 

“Yami.” I whined again. After a few moments of a frozen Yami I move my head to look at him. He had a dark look in his eye. 

“Yami?” This time my voice was filled with concern. Yami moved back from me and I released my grip on his neck. The hand that was on my waist moved to my neck. Rubbing right over my right scent gland. 

That was when I froze realizing what’s happening.

“This isn’t what it looks like Yami.” My voice was weak and barely audible. I couldn’t help but look away from Yami again. 

“It looks like a matting mark.” I couldn't help but wince. Yami’s scent is no longer detectable. But the embarrassment in my scent was out in the open.

“It is. But I can explain-!”

“ Then explain.” Distress was starting to seep into my scent. My mouth opened against my will to spill everything that happened with Zenon so many years ago. Four my mind (un)helpfully reminded me. But I couldn’t. Everyone was so worried for me. Spade isn’t an allied kingdom. I don’t want their pity or distrustful looks when they see me.

The omega got bitten against their will, this is why omega’s shouldn’t be allowed on the battlefield.

That omega is mated to a mage from an enemy kingdom, how do we know he isn’t a spy?

I don’t want to see the looks in their eyes as they see me differently after words.

“I- sorry. Can’t. I can’t! ” The command was hard to break. My knees wobble from lack of energy. This wasn’t like the command from when I came home from Sade, the one that had no force behind it. The command now took what little energy I had left to break it. 

I slid down on the ground no longer able to hold myself up. Tears in my eyes as Yami just blankly stares at me. Dropping my collar down next to me he moves to leave, all I could do was sob distress covering my scent.

“Thought so.” He walked away leaving me in that hall crying. 

~~~~~~~~~~

The first thing I did after coming back from that Temple was pick a fight with Jack. That omega was nesting in his room. So doing the one thing that makes even the most pacifist omega pissed off enough to kill I destroyed his nest, while he was in heat.

After beating eachother up for the next few hours, destroying most of the Green Mantises base, we passed out. The next morning for the next few hours Jack had me rebuild his nest exactly how he wanted it. Every blade (because of course his nest is made with blades) must be in the right spot not an inch away from the right spot. When that was finished we grabbed Dorthey and got a few drinks.

“Alright so, you destroyed my nest in heat. You have a fucking death wish, explain.” I sighed and downed my drink in one gulp.

“The omega I wanted to court.” They both winced at my tone. 

“What happened?” Dotty passed her drink onto me realizing I needed it more.

“He’s mated.” Both their jaws dropped.

“How long? Is it recent?” I swallowed Dotty’s drink in one.

“Nope. The mark is faded.”

“So it could be anywhere from five years to three months since they’ve been mated.”

“That is if the mark hasn’t been renewed, Jack.” She turned to me. “I’m sorry hon. I - I know how much you liked him.”

“It’s fine. Just needed to drink it off.”

“You're not fine. You attacked me in my nest. While in heat. That screams death wish. So something is wrong. What is it?” I glared at a few alpha’s staring at Jack. Stupid knotheads thinking an omega’s free for the takin because they're in heat.

“He’s a flirt. I told you that.” Jack’s eyes widen at the reminder. Getting exactly what I'm getting at. Dotty’s a little slow on the uptake.

“What’s a little flirtin got to do with anythin?”

“Cheatin, Dotty, Cheatin.” Jack clarified. I stole his drink and downed it. Wouldn’t be the first time I mentioned Finral coming home smelling like a beta, alpha, occasionally an omega. Never the same person twice.

I always thought of Finral as loyal. That if he ever got with somebody that (not stop) he would slow down on flirting and be loyal to his partner.

“I feel sorry for his mate. And you, getting sweeped up in his mess.” 

“Now Jack we don’t know the full picture. There could be more to the story than what we know. Did you ask him? I mean for all we know the relationship could be poly. Or his mate is dead. It might not have even been consensual. All we know is that he had a bite, not why or who bit him. 

He comes from a noble family, right, it could have been an arranged mating . It’s an out of date practice but not illegal, mate off an unpresented person if they have a grimoire or vice versa. Did you ask him about it?”

“Agh. Why ya got ta be right Dotty?” I asked Finral why . But I didn’t ask why he couldn't tell me. 

“Because you humans always jump to conclusions! Now off you go! Ask while you're still sober.”

“And if it fails, come back so we can continue getting drunk.” I hope I haven’t fucked everything up to much in the last few day.

“Where were you?! Do you know how many papers you need to sign before I send them off? Marx has been waiting for these papers since yesterday!”

“I’m sorry.” Knowing if I didn’t interrupt now Finral would go on for another few hours.

Finral froze, not sure what to say. This was not the usual script between us. And that has been what's been happening since that night in the hall. Acting as if everything is usual. With one key difference.

Finral’s bare neck was hidden by his high collar robe. 

Though I only know that because the collar was now on Finral’s thigh instead of his neck. 

“I shouldn’t have left you like that. I panicked and made assumptions. In doing so I hurt you and that wasn’t my attention. You said you can’t answer. That’s fine. So I'm sorry.” I stopped not knowing what else to say. Comforting people is never my strong suit.

“I’m not with him.” Finral shrugged. He rubbed the back of his neck accidentally showing the bite. I tried hard to not growl at the bite.

“I haven’t seen him in ages. We’re not together. I just don’t feel comfortable talking about it. It’s a decently long story. Frankly, I don’t think I’ll ever be comfortable talking about it.”

“What? Got frisky in bed with someone and ended up biting each other?” I joked and it worked as Finral snorted.

“I wish. But seriously. Sign.” He shoved the papers in my face along with a pen. 

The awkwardness cleared up a lot. Not fully going away but closer to before. And that was all I could ask for. 

Finral will explain when he’s ready. If he’s not ever ready then I’ll be there too.

Chapter Text

Training for the Royal Knight's

It was odd. Crazy even But it was the best idea I got. It was late at night and everyone was somber. Only an hour ago I told them the news of Asta’s arm’s. All I could do was bite my lip and cry. Everyone would be leaving in the morning to find ways to help Asta. But I will leave now.

It was odd feeling something so small yet so heavy. Kaiken, a blade from Sunlander. Never really thought I would use it, still don’t, but it can't hurt to have it. Strapped it onto my grimoire belt and slung over the quiver of arrows hiding the kaiken. My grimoire on my left, my kaiken, quiver, and bow on my right.

Dressed in Zenon’s cloak from years ago, I no longer fit into the other clothes Zenon gave me. My neck is still bare of collar or scent patch as per Yami’s orders leaving the matting bite for all to see. Normal clothes along with my robe on my bed as I changed into something warmer for the Spade weather. This time my hair was covered in an illusion to look black. Before I could change my mind I portalled to Spade a few miles from the castle.

It was freezing even in my warmest clothes. Though that isn’t surprising, Clover winter is a heat wave in summer for Spade. The castle hasn’t changed much in the four years I've been gone. I don’t know how to feel about that. 

I did some simple arm stretches for a moment of two before grabbing my bow. The bow was something I never picked up as a weapon. A bow needs accuracy to hit its target and a good spatial mage makes accurate portals. It was something I did for training my magic but I couldn’t help but love it.

Filling the arrow with my mana I shoot. The string hitting my arm I knew it would bruise. All I had to do was wait. The arrow hit the wall next to the window in Zenon’s office. Not even a minute later Zenon was behind me holding the arrow.

I could feel the edges of pre-heat starting. 

It’s been so long since seeing Zenon my body is automatically seeking comfort from my alpha. I try to hold back a groan in heat pain as I take back the arrow in his hand. Putting my bow away too, I take a look at Zenon. He looks exactly the same from four years ago except a spade isn’t on the heart of his jacket.

“I’m surprised. I didn’t think I would see you again.” 

“You say that as if you didn’t make sure I have a reason to see you again.”

“True.”

“A member of my pack’s been cursed. I want your help to lift it.” It was false confidence. Zenon most definitely knew that. Distress was at the edge of my scent and I was shaking from more than the cold. 

“You practice archery.” 

“It helps with accuracy.” I was shivering from freezing. My teeth were practically chattering against each other. But I won't back down. Not from a chance or helping Asta. 

Zenon was quiet for a long moment before speaking. “I’ll need to know what kind of curse.” I opened a portal to my hideaway and grabbed Owens papers and a veil of the curse. Handing it to Zenon with shaking hands. 

“Not going to even ask the price?” I shook my head, my heat would be starting soon. 

“As pack omega it’s my job to keep my pack safe. So I pay the price for the curse being removed.” Zenon raised an eyebrow at the pack omega. I could feel it in the bond that he’s not happy.

“What is the Clover version of pack omega?”

“It’s like pack alpha, just an omega.” Zenon seemed to calm down at that. I don’t like feeling the bond.

“I’ll see what my sister can do.” He opened a portal. “Care to come with?” I hesitated for a moment. It was cold and the castle was warm. Nothing can kill me out here and everyone could kill me in there. No one would bother me in my heat out here and everyone would bother me in there. 

If Zenon wanted me dead I would be dead already. 

I rubbed the bond mark not sure if that was my thought or his. Making up my mind I walk through the portal. The portal closed behind me. Trying not to jump, I comely walk behind Zenon. My mana is almost depleted jumping from Clover to Spade. I’m in heat and everyone thinks an omega in heat is easy. And I'm surrounded by enemies that want me to join them.

“Vanica.” Was all Zenon spoke before he opened the door. In the room there was a young woman. She has medium-length, black hair with an eyepatch that covers her right eye and is emblazoned with a gold spade symbol. A high-collared, brown vest and matching short skirt. A wide, black belt buckled at her waist and hangs her grimoire pouch off of it in the back. She also has a pair of belts forming an X on her chest and a third belt wraps around her skirt. Over this, she wears a dark blue fur coat with a short, white fur mantle on top. She is also wearing a pair of thigh-high, brown boots and a gold tiara with five spikes and red jewels at the base of each spike.

“ZENNY!” Running up she hugs him. Letting him go she turns to me.

“Who are you? Oh, you're cute! Are you Zenon’s mate? I heard about you a few years ago. What brings you here?”

“I’m Finral. It’s nice to meet you, Lady Vanica.” She giggled at that.

“Just call me Vanica. Oooohh! Or even better yet sister!” 

“Vanica.” She turned to him.

“Yes, Zenny?” I really shouldn’t laugh. But the name, oh my god it sounds like a name Luck would give.

“Can you undo this curse?” He held out the papers to her. I was now starting to feel uncomfortably warm due to my clothes and heat. They might be the warmest clothes I own but they're also by far the most unkind to heat. 

“Admittedly not fully. I can reverse the curse but they have to relearn how to use there arms all over again.”

“Anything is better than nothing, Lady Vanica.” She pouted when I said that.

“And in exchange for helping you stop calling me Lady.” 

“Of course Princess Vanica.” Zenon huffed at that.

“Well I walked right into that one! I’ll get the potion ready.” As Princess Vanica left the room I sighed in relief. Tension dropping from my shoulders. And that was my mistake. That relief made the exhaustion kick in and adrenaline saying goodbye. Passing out right as Princess Vanica left the door.

When I awoke again I was warm and in bed. Shooting up I realized I was in a room. Zenon was doing something in a corner of the room. Reading a book? But I was panicking wondering if I had been gone for too long. 

“How long have I been asleep?” I asked, pretending the clothes I’m wearing are the ones I arrived in. 

“About an hour.” I sighed in relief. It should be ten or eleven right around now. 

“I apologize for fainting.” I could hear a page turn. 

“It’s alright. I was expecting it, really. When one is not used to portalling across kingdoms it’s quite a drain on mana.”

“I can portal from the Heart kingdom's border to Diamond’s. Though this is the first time I’ve portalled inside another kingdom.”

“Did you portal from inside the Clover kingdom.” I could feel Zenon was impressed?

“Around the center of Clover.”

“To the center of Spade.” I nodded. “Vanica should have the potion ready in two hours.”

“Thank you.” I wanted to nest but I needed to wait for the potion.

“You have world tree magic on you.” I could hear the silent thump of the book being down.

“My brother’s pack omega. I talk to him from time to time to get updates on my brother.”

“Is your brother anything like yourself?”

“No. He has offensive spatial magic. So he’s on the front lines more often than not. I’m just a support mage.” 

“You can be much more than a support mage. You are the only person in recorded history to have dual spatial magic. If you so wish, you can be a front line mage.” Zenon got up moving towards the bed. I look down at my hand. The death of hundreds by my magic.

“I know I can. I know first hand the death I can bring with my magic. I did not earn the name Angel of Death for nothing. I could open a portal inside a person and kill them. I can hide my mana presence so no one would know I was there if I killed them in their own home. I can bring down a mountain when I wish. My tears can carve someone away as if they weren’t even there in the first place. 

I know very well the kinds of pain I could bring to someone. Torture would be easy with my magic. But I don't want to be a front line mage. I don’t want to kill with a flick of my wrist. Not anymore. The Roulacase line is a family of assassins and thieves. But that’s not me.

If I open a portal inside someone it’s for keeping their blood flowing. Or getting them to take their medication. If no one notices my mana it’s because I'm spying on them. Why bring down a mountain when I can portal them to a healing mage. When my tears fall it’s to hide my tracks. I do not want to kill. But I will if I must.” I look up from my hand and look into Zenon’s eyes. Nose’s an inch apart. Breath mingling.

“You are an interesting person, Finral Roulacase.” I shuddered. 

“You are not the first to say that.” Anything Zenon does is something I can not fight. I need that potion and if this is the price to pay for Asta’s cure then so be it.

“I could use a person like you on the field. You have such strength that I want to see.” Zenon’s hand’s were blocking me to the bed.

“I could use a mage like you. I want to see you push past your limits.”

I couldn’t help but smile sadly. “Do you want to know something, Zenon?” He hummed for me to continue.

“If we met just two years earlier I probably would have joined you.” I couldn’t help the self deprecating laugh at that. Falling with my back on the matrice, in a similar position four years ago.

“Pity then. We had just missed each other. Maybe in another life.”

“But this one we are enemies.” I probably should have at least tried to fight Zenon. But truthfully I didn’t want to. If I never met Yami, or if I met Zenon before Yami, I would have been a Spade soldier.

I have no loyalty to Clover. I mean I don’t want innocent people to die for nothing but the crown of Clover I have no loyalty to. If Zenon told me I would be useful on the front line, that I'm interesting, that I had interesting magic, I would have joined Spade like how I did with Yami and the Black Bulls.

Maybe that’s a testament to my mental health. Or the shitty way my parents raised me. Who knows, I don’t. But here in Zenon’s bed I get a taste of what being a Spade mage would be like. If I had, have, would, will, whatever you want to say, take up his offer. Well no one can blame me. I’ve always been a horrible Magic Knight after all.

I didn’t bother washing the smell of sex off me. I just portaled the potion to my hideaway after thanking Princess Vanica and portaled home. Ignoring the pain from my abdomen, the semen leaking out, and the refreshed mating bite, I plopped down in my nest hidden in the rafters of the roof and fell asleep.

And it was for nothing after all. The Queen of Witches had held Asta even better than what I could manage. I was useless.

The news was whispered around the Star Festival. The Royal Knight’s. The three words were whispered like a prayer on the lips of everyone in the Star Festival. Soon dawn rose and the Star Festival ended. Training had begun for everyone. 

With calm breaths I put on the Spade clothing Zenon had given me recently. My kaiken and quiver of arrows. On my right hip and my grimoire on my left. Just like before the forest of witches. Ignoring the potion unused in my hideaway is proof that this will be a useless trip.

Not even bothering to hide my presence I portal straight to Zenon’s room. I placed the plate of Mille-feuille on a table near the bed. I place the thermos of tea next to the Mille-feuille. Zenon came portaling into the room just as I placed the thermos down.

“I would say do something about hiding your mana but I'm sure you're strong enough that is not necessary.”

“Hidding my mana could be useful. But for now it’s not. I’m surprised to see you here so soon.” I shrugged, lilting my head to the dessert.

In comparison to the first time I ate Spade food I grabbed a Mille-feuille and ate all of it then Zenon ate one. Doing the same with the tea I grabbed the thermostat and took a drink out of it. Zenon then did the same.

“I was hoping for your help.” 

“You usually visit when you do.”

“I need to become stronger. I’m weak. But I only have a week . So I came to the best defensive Spatial mage I know. You.”

“You wish for me to train you.” 

“I wish for whatever you’ll give me. But I need to become stronger. I will make my pack the best and to do that I need your help. Please Zenon!” I stood up looking him in the eye. 

“When I first met you it was through romers. The fearsome Angel of Death. In person you were this scared kid playing adult. Next you were shaking in fear pushing through it for your pack.”

“What of it?”

“Now. Now I see someone willing to kill for their pack. Someone willing to do anything for them. No fear insight.”

“Oh I'm terrified but I'll push past anything and everything for my pack. For my family. Help me Zenon.”

“We start when I finish these.” I chuckled a little at that.

“There Mille-feuille. A dessert in Clover. Goes well with tea and coffee.”

“If I'm ever in Clover I’ll try some.”

Day one, hour later

A training field at the edge of Spade. I made sure to mark it. Having places marked in enemy kingdoms might come in handy. Quiver and dagger on my right, grimoire on my left I stand across from Zenon. 

“Simple. I will measure your level of combat. Attack me.” I think I was frozen for a good solid two minutes. Realizing I didn’t miss hear, I nod, portaling to my hideaway. Fallen Angel’s Hideaway. My own world that I created. No one can get in without my permission. It looks like the hideout because I based it on the hideout.

Fallen Angel’s Mirror.

Multiple portals appeared around the area we were just at. All showing multiple angles of Zenon and the area around Zenon. You can’t pass light or temperature through a portal. The third law of spatial magic. Only particles of sufficient mass and or mana can interact with the spatial field enough to be transported. So you can’t light your way in the dark just by opening a portal to somewhere bright. You can’t in the normal world. But this is my world. I can only cast Fallen Angels Mirror in Fallen Angels Hideaway.

Though I can only open a mirror to places I've marked with my magic. Which makes it a good thing that I marked the training ground. I can see him. I can hear them. But I can’t interact with them. They can not see me. And if someone wants to leave I'll have to dispel the mirrors to open a gate.

I can create rooms, walls, and floors. But water, food, bed’s and other material stuff I can’t. That stuff I'll need from the real world. That is the reason why all the other rooms but mine are barren. It’s also unfortunate that whenever I open a portal while in the hideaway a portal opens to every living being in the hideaway.

In the real world no one can go into my portal’s without permission. And I know who went through my portals. But if they are in the hideaway and I open a portal they can go out with no problem. Makes this spell horrible for imprisonment.

My mana spots are entrances to the hideaway. I have them stashed all over the hideout. My room in my hideaway is some of Yami’s spare katana’s. A bed. A trunk full of my clothes. All important documents that I don’t want stolen. A desk for said paperwork. A second trunk full of non-perishable food. A scrapbook of Langris’s accomplishments combined with Captain Vangeance updates on Langirs. A permanent mirror to Yami’s room. That room is far more lived in then my actual room which just has the bed it came with in there. 

Grabbing the chair from the desk I sit in front of the mirrors. “Fallen Angel’s Gate!” Zenon then tripped into the gate below his feet.

Then the one above his head. And continued falling. The gate above was two feet above the ground gate. It only took a full minute and my portal’s broke revealing Zenon standing in the exact same spot.

“Not bad. If I was a normal mage I could have trouble breaking that loop. Let's see what else you can do.”

“It’s the weakest spell I have.” Which is true. As much as I hate using them, Wings and Tears are my strongest spells.

“Then that would be Fallen Angel’s Gate.” I dumped water on top of Zenon.

“Creative. I never would have thought of that. Using trees, rocks, and water from nearby. Everyday things we pass could be used as a weapon.”

Snapping my fingers and Fallen Angel’s Dance along with some Fallen Angel’s Illusion . Then rocks, mud, water, and bushes come through. Unpredictability with Illusion and Dance make it impossible to predict where it’s coming from. The variety of things make it difficult to determine what’s coming next. 

Portalling a few smoke bombs, flour balloons, sleeping gas grenades, and a few bebe grenades. Courtesy of Luck and Magna and their prank war. Running out of those I continue with the rocks, mud, water, and bushes. Thinking of throwing an actual bomb or poison bomb, I toss that idea out. Better to save those outside of training.

But still Zenon blocked all of it with his bones. Or at least what was sold enough to block. Portalling some tree’s but those were cut in half as well. I was panting at this point. Closing my mirror’s I portal myself behind Zenon with my kaiken to his back. 

The tree was a distraction.

He had his hand on the blade. Blood coming from both his hand and his back. The blade barely pierced his back before Zenon’s hand stopped the blade. 

“I thought you might have been stage five. But it appears you are stage three. Though the creativity that you use your magic can have you mistaken for a stage one. Rest.” He let go of my blade and I promptly fell on my ass. Portaling a few granola bars and a waterskin from my hideaway. Eating and drinking, I rest while I can.

When Zenon came back he was clean of everything I threw at him. He placed a few books in front of me. Big heavy books and a dictionary. Looking through the titles there are all war strategy books.

“Tomorrow we start physical training. Today you read.” 

“Thanks.” Portalling back to Zenon’s room I sat in the corner reading. Checking words in the dictionary. Writing down some strategy to change up.

It was quiet after that. With me just reading and Zenon somewhere else. At night I shared Zenon’s bed again. As per our agreement. An heir for the Spade kingdom in exchange for help.

Day two

Waking up in Zenon’s bed, while not the first time, will probably be something I'm not ever gonna get used to. Not like I particularly want to. Eating breakfast, I head to the training ground. Stretching without much thought I shart shooting at a random tree. Accuracy practice to help with my magic and a good way to calm down.

“Portals.” 

“What about them?” 

“Make as many as you can with as much mana as possible.” I lowered my bow and arrow. I poured as much mana as I could into as many as I could. Small gate’s danced around me. Circling my wrists, shoulders, waist, and ankles. 

“Good. Keep doing what you were doing.” I was panting already. Twelve portals were circling my waist. Six portals each were circling both my wrists. Twelve were circling my shoulders. Six portals each were circling my ankles. In total forty eight portals. The mana I was using was enough for double that amount of portal’s I have. 

Putting away my bow and arrow (knowing the strain would be too much) I move to my kaiken. I truthfully didn’t know how to use the damned thing. The only times I practiced with it I was mainly copying what Yami did with his katana. Going through the warm up I've seen Yami do a hundred times a day.

I don’t actually expect to kill. I don’t want to kill. But my pack or another? My pack always comes first. I hope I don’t have to kill. Beg even. 

My motions really have no thought. Just repetition. My muscles burn from the ache. Mana wavering on my portals. It was starting to hurt to breathe. How long have I been at this? I have been concentrating on my mana not faltering.

Yeesh. No wonder Asta and Yami are so buff. A blade that was sharp, showed proper care, despite its disuse, engraved with a feather. The sheath and handle was simple and plain black wood. On the sheath it said Black Bulls and the handle it said angle on one side, death on the other.

I never understood why Yami gave me the blade. Don’t think I ever will. But that’s fine. The sun had long since set. I broke. Dropping to my knees the portals disappeared and the blade buried into the ground.

From sunrise to long past sundown I have been doing this. Over ten hours. Fuck, I wished I stopped for food.

“You opened portals somewhere else.” I looked at Zenon.

“What do you mean?” I was pleasantly surprised I managed to say that in one breath. Oh my muscles ache.

“During training you were opening portals from Clover at seemingly random times.”

“Habit.” Shaking my head I hold back a laugh. I portalled Yami to breakfast, lunch, dinner, bathroom, and his room, by habit. 

Eating dinner, bathing, putting cream on, ignoring the urge to go to my hideaway and nest, I fulfilled my end of the contract with Zenon then slept.

Day three

“Run.”

“What do you mean?” I got my answer as Zenon’s bones pierced a tree behind me.

“Right run.”

“Do as you did yesterday while running.” Are you KIDDING ME! I could barely do that yesterday. But before I could utter a word of complaint another bone came my way.

Drawing blood.

Running into a portal I turned up at the otherside. Hurrying, I did the same as yesterday. Portals surrounded me like a dance. With a flick of my wrist the bone inches away from my neck was sent back double the strength to Zenon. Closing the portal around the bone effectively carves it off.

“Not every mage can manage to double the attack. The edge of your portals are offensive.”

“It’s a bloodline trait of house Roulacase. All spells sent into our portal are doubled. The offensive edges are a trait of house Vaude. They specialize in offensive Spatial magic. All my portal’s have offensive edges.” Zenon nodded at that. That was my only warning to run again.

I would hide in my hideaway but that would defeat the point of the training. God, I would love to be in my nest right now. Ugh, I can hear Yami laughing. I made a spell my nest. But Henry won’t get laughed at and his nest is the freaking house.

Maybe because someone destroys his nest at least once a day.

Damit. Should I attack or continue dodging? All Zenon said was run. And he isn't even using his full speed. If he was, I would be dead. Not stupid enough to think I can take Zenon by myself. Especially at my stage.

“Do you even want kids?” Zenon froze for just a second, it was the only thing I had that made it known Zenon heard the question. 

“Truthfully not really.” I portaled to the top of a tree as he spoke.

“But it’s best if the Spade kingdom has an heir. You have the best Spatial magic we’ve found. And the only one with dual types.”

“Have you ever thought about kids?” Jumping from tree to tree dodging the bones. 

“Once. My mate wanted kids. When I was younger. Years ago.” The words unspoken but heard. When they were alive.

Jumping in the air I run along the sky. Hiding behind a tree I wait for bated breath for the next attack. But for now I breathe.

“Can I ask their name?” I question as the bone broke the tree and I fell. On instinct I flew.

  Fallen Angel’s Wings has been activated.

“His name was Allen. An omega fire mage.”

Flying was something I loved. It was what I'm used to. Spending more time in the stars than the ground. But it was odd. Using my wings to fly instead of my gates. But I dodged all the bones Zenon sent my way.

“What about you?” I dropped my wings letting my fall down from the cluster of bones.

“Are you courting that dark mage?”

“Yami? I wish. But no.” In an all for nothing bid I tried an ability I haven't used for anything other than dodging stray fireballs and lightning bolts.

Manipulating the matter and mana around I can make it so that I'm never touched. Nothing could hit me because it needed something solid to hit. It just passed through me like there was nothing to hit because there was nothing to hit. It was like expecting one of Magna’s fireballs to hit a tree in the middle of an open clearing. Not going to happen. Without mana and matter there is nothing. Spatial magic allows me to manipulate space. Matter is in space.

The bones pierced through me as if I wasn’t there. I then fell down landing on my feet. Grass touching my boots. Zenon called back his bones. 

“Your portals have gotten smaller.” The portals circling me have gotten smaller.

“I still have the same amount of portals with the same amount of mana, I'm calling it a win. Later I can work on doing that without shrinking the portals, for now it’s better than before.”

Dark was setting. No matter where I am, the darkness will find me.

No matter where I go, Yami will get to me eventually. 

Day four

Today was much like day two. I spent most of the day walking along the sky with over mana portals circling me. Though this time there were random attacks of bone throughout the day. 

But today was odd. Not as in Black Bulls odd. Roulacase odd.

Today I woke up and the tips of my hair were green.

Sometime after lunch I caught my reflection in the water. Except it wasn’t my reflection. It’s funny how trauma and being alone in your own head can do to a person.

The person I saw staring back at me was my mother. Or my aunt. They were twins after all.

Pretty soft phechers. Long black wavy hair with white tips. Light pink purple eyes. My eyes.

I didn’t notice my portal’s flickering. I didn’t notice the bone coming my way. I didn’t notice the blood falling from my cheek. 

Whore’s son.

“Shut up.” I hate my eyes. Their nobility eyes.

Shame on the Vaude name.

“Be quiet.” I didn’t ask to look like her. I didn’t ask to look like the women everyone loved.

That’s the Sweet Angel of Clover’s kid? Man, what a disappointment.

“You know nothing. Shut up.” I never asked to be her son.

Slut.

“Go away. Be quiet .” Nothing I do should matter to you.

Bastard child.

“ Go away.” I don’t wanna hear anymore.

Failure.

“Go away.” I shouldn’t matter to you.

How dare you wear her face. You imposter!

“Go away.” I wanna be left alone.

Langris! Stay away from it!

“GO AWAY!” 

Fallen Angel’s Wing Beat! 

Zenon was trying to get my attention during all of this. Falling to do so and getting caught up in my new spell. I passed out after words only waking up sometime after dark. Face red I apologize to Zenon profusely for what happened. I couldn’t tell if he was annoyed or not.

Day five

“Your mana is turning your hair green.”

“It’s a Roulacase trait. Both my mother and aunt had the tips of their hair white. My grandmother had the tips of her hair blue.”

“A family of assassins and thieves. With powerful defensive Spatial magic that lets you get through wards and double peoples spells. You might actually be a threat.”

“Not really. I’m the only Roulacase alive. And while stealing is fun and all I’ll keep to stealing information. Death is a no unless someone attacks my pack.”

“I might see you as a threat in a year or two.”

“If so, why don’t you kill me?”

“I still need you to carry a child for Spade.”

Training changed from portals to practicing Fallen Angel’s Wing Beat.

Day six

Wing

Fallen

Beat

Angel

Over and over again. Wing Beat after Wing Beat. Using it on animals nearby. Portalling them away. Over and over. 

The tips of my hair have become even more green.

I avoid looking at reflective surfaces. For the time being at least.

Day seven

My last day was when my luck decided to end. I’m not sure how Zenon kept my presence here a secret. But I was found out by Princess Vanica on my last day. So instead of peacefully reading more war strategies I was taken away by a very excitable Princess.

“Princess Vanica! Could you please slow down?!”

“No way! It’s been ages since I had another omega to talk to! Especially a strong one such as yourself!”

“For a support mage I might be strong but for a front line fighter not so much.”

“Oh come on! No need to be so modest! An Angel possessed like yourself has got to be strong!”

“The Angel I'm contracted to doesn't have any offensive spells.”

“OOOOHHHH! What magic do you have?!”

“Illusion and Spatial magic Princess Vanica.”

And that was how I spent my afternoon. It was kind of like having a girl talk with Vanessa but with Luck’s personality. 

Day of the Royal Knight’s

My eyes opened to the roof of the hideout. It was odd. A week straight and now home feels odd. It is morning now. I couldn’t help but feel cold for some reason. A week of waking up in bed with someone else and now waking up alone could do that.

There is no love between Zenon and I but I wondered if I was a Spade mage could I have loved him like I do Yami?

It was a foolish thought. What if’s but still I could not help them. But I am happy here. With my pack and I wouldn’t change them for the world. Even if I love to mute them for a quiet morning every once in a while. Getting up I changed into my normal clothing putting the Spade clothing into my hideaway. The green tips of my hair was something I still won't get used to, at least not for a long while. Staring at my hair I had a very stupid idea.

“Hey, Vanessa! I need a favor.” Yelling as I run downstairs saving up my mana. Robe in my hand I jump on her as she lays on the couch.

“What?” 

“I need a hair change. And I need you to do so!” She rolls her eyes. Then she stops and stares at me.

“So you gonna help me change my hair or not?” Nodding while still staring. Sitting in a chair in her room I wait.

“Can I ask a question?”

“You just did.”

“How long have you been mated?” My hand went straight to my neck. Fuck in my rush I didn’t even think about putting on my robe.

“About four years now. Well actually closer to five. I was seventeen.”

“I’m just now hearing about them?”

“You never asked.”

“Well, does your mate have anything to do with you wanting to change your hair? Or the green at the tips?” I stopped to think for a moment. Technically yes, if it wasn’t for Zenon’s training my magic wouldn’t have turned my hair green. 

“He’s not the complete reason.”

“I would like to meet him eventually.” Let’s not have that happen ever.

“Not right now.” Then I heard buzzing. “Wait. Wait. Wait! You didn't say you were using heavy artillery.”

“Relax. Leave everything to me.” That doesn't make me feel better!

It’s funny. I don’t even think Spade was the problem. It was me. In my half asleep state I let everyone go hunting for a cure for Asta not telling everyone I had one.

It was my fault we even had to go to the Forest of Witches in the first place.

And this time it was going so well. The strategies I learned from Spad were helping so much. I found confidence I didn’t know I had. But in the end it meant nothing. 

I froze fighting.

Chapter Text

Miscarage

I didn’t really know what to do. Everyone was just shouting. Finral in a pool of his own blood. His grimoire is fading. It was cracking and breaking and scaring us all.

“Vanessa, I’m going to take him to the infirmary. Can you inform his mate?” Right, Yami. Yami would like to know what happened.

“Cob! Cob. Send me to the hideout.” 

“Okie okie.” 

“What happened to you?” It was the first thing out of his mouth as he saw me. What happened to me? I’m almost losing my best friend. I saw my best friend in a pool of his own blood. I saw the person I consider a little brother have more holes in him than swiss cheese. What happened to me?

“Nothing.” Nothing has happened to me. Everything has happened to Finral.

Yami looks down at me. I look down at myself. Oh. That’s why he asked. My knees, shoes, skirt, gloves and grimoire are covered in grass stains and blood. 

Finral’s blood.

I feel like I should scream. Or cry. Both? Instead I just look back at Yami.

“We need to head back to the Capitol.” 

“Then tell my ride to get his ass back here and take me. If he has enough time to play with kiddies then he has enough time to get me.” For some reason I felt like I should be angry about that remark. It’s not like he knows Finral’s grimoire is almost in pieces.

Maybe because Yami just assumes Finral’s just going to be at his beck and call like always.

“It’s about Finral.” This time Yami looks concerned. Slightly. Should I be fighting him to get there faster? Probably. But everything’s underwater. So slow and muffled. Am I in shock? Probably. 

“What happened?” Concern in his tone. “Did he finally get caught going into the forbidden royal archives?” He jokes covering up the concern. I’m too tired to get angry.

“The infirmary.” I really didn’t get to finish as Yami went by. Not even realizing when he got his broom.

I just grabbed my broom and followed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Not really caring about my loudness I stormed into the infirmary.

“Where’s that damned Quak!?” Everyone in that damned waiting room jumped a foot in the air. Any other time I laugh but right now the panic is overwriting everything else.

“Over here Yami.” Owen waved me down a hallway. 

“How’s the idiot Quak?”

“Stable. For now.” Was the for now necessary? He sighed and rubbed his eyes.

“Do you know who Mr. Roulacase’s mate is?”

“What’s that got to do with anything?” 

“You might be his squad Captain but you do not have privilege for his medical records. Unless their job, pausing or stopping injury. Which at the moment they are not. (And I did not breathe a sigh of relief at that.) This is information for his mate only. I really don’t want to give this information.” I tried to hold back an eye roll. 

“I am. Finral’s mate that is.” I’ve got no clue what we are. We both know we have feelings for eachother but nothing’s been done about it. I could offer to bite over the mark but haven’t done so. That's Finral’s choice.

Eh. I’ll ask for forgiveness later. Better to ask for forgiveness than permission after all.

Owen froze looking at me. “Oh.” He paled significantly. “I’m sorry.”

“Owen.” This is not helping me calm down. “What happened? I just know he’s here. Explain.”

He continued walking as he explained. And each word made me want to kill the little shit even more than I already did. Owen handed me his grimoire. The cracks now permanently show what had happened. A crack right over the keyhole clover. 

See Finral first then kill the little shit. 

“I’m sorry for your loss.”

“What?” That threw me for a loop. He opened the door to Finral’s room. Private just like always. Owen winced at that.

“I guess you both didn’t know.”

“Owen?”

“Finral was pregnant. My guess is about a month. Around the time Diamond attacked our border. He miscarried. I’m sorry.”

Finral’s going to be devastated.

“Have you thought about kids?” The question caught me off guard. We were in Finral’s nest, stargazing.

“Not really.”

“I’d like to have kids one day.” The smile on his face was a sad one. “It’s stupid. I don’t even think I make a great dad. It’s just a desire to have some blood family that doesn't want to kill me on sight. Does that make me a bad person?”

“I don’t think that makes ya a bad person. It just makes you human.” 

“I think you make a great dad, Yami.” 

“You would too.” 

“There’s a chance he might not ever carry again.”

I see ‘im there. Scar’s from where his little brother hit ‘im. They would be hidden with the other scar’s by his illusion magic when he wakes up. But for now, the illusions on his scars are gone. 

The mating mark in his neck that was once fading away was now fresh. There was no anger, hurt, or betrayal. Just sadness. Finral always wanted a child and now he might never get the chance. 

Wanted to name them Vega or Fae if a girl. 

Hoped they had dark hair. 

All I could do right now was smoke. When he woke up I comforted him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I felt frozen. Owen was bandaging my sides. The elf battle was over and the hype of releasing the first Wizard King had faded into muteness. I had lost my child. People are supposed to feel loss, sadness, grief, guilt, anger, shock, anxiety, or depression. But all I feel is numb. Does this fall under depression or shock?  

Owen was speaking but I couldn’t hear a word. Am I supposed to cry? I wanna cry. Am I supposed to scream? I wanna scream. 

Instead I just lay in the infirmary bed holding my stomach and stare at the ceiling all night.

By morning I was gone from the infirmary. By night I was in the infirmary again due to opening my wounds during the construction effort. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Give me one good reason why I shouldn’t kill you?” I asked the little shit. 

“Yami, if you asked me to bring Langris just to threaten him I wouldn’t have brought him.”

“Shut up William.” He did. The other Captains left but stayed close to stop a fight. “Tell me why I shouldn’t kill you. And not because Finral will be sad if you die.”

“Now, now,-.” “Do not interrupt this Wizard King. Not even you are going to stop this.” I interrupted Julius. 

“Why are you even so upset? Your whore can’t warm your bed while in the infirmary?” The baby face and snarky version of Finral snarked.

“Your brother miscarried.” That made the brat freeze. “Finral doesn't blame you. I blame you.” I also blame myself for letting Finral even join that damned tournament.

“If you're going to blame anyone it should be me.” I turned to him. Someone I consider a brother. My rival. My friend.

“It was during that stupid Royal exam. There was no elf in control of him at that time.” William took a step back. 

“Yami. I know this is a hard time for you and your Vice Captain, but killing Langris won't solve anything.”

“It’ll make me feel better.”

“And it’ll make Mr. Roulacase feel worse. He just lost his child; he doesn't need to lose his brother too.”

“Nothing to say for yourself Short Stack?” He just shook his head.

“Come on Goldie Gut’s I want to drink my half cut paycheck on getting drunk.”

“How are you coping?” He asked before we reached the others. “I know how much Morgan’s loss hurt. It can’t be easy.”

“I’ll get over it. I always do.”

“If that’ll make you feel better. Sure. You’ll get over this eventually.” 

I won’t. I still haven’t gotten over Morgan’s death. And I won't get over this one. 

A life ended before it could begin and the one to snuff it out let off scot free. 

~~~~~~~~~~~

Finral,

I think I wasn’t meant to be a father. Never wanted to be one either. Thank you for informing me of your miscarage. Thank you for considering naming our child Allen. I appreciate the gesture.

Allen was pregnant when he died. Though he didn’t know. Neither did I. Maybe things would have turned out differently if we knew.

But fatherhood is not my fate. I’ll leave having an heir to Vanica or Dante. May we meet each other again one day. Hopefully on the same side.

   -Zenon

It was stupid. But I've memorized that letter by now. Reread it fifty times. Nero came back home from being kidnapped by the Devil banashers. Now all parting in the common room celebrating Nero’s return.

All I could do was work. All I have been doing since I've gotten the news. Avoiding it. But here and now I couldn’t. I couldn’t avoid the news anymore.

“Finral?” Yami. When did I enter the hallway? 

“Finral?” I need to ignore it. Just like I've been doing. Ignore it.

“Charmy’s been worried for ya. You havn’ been eating. Worrying Henry too. Said you haven’t been sleeping either. Heck Luck mentioned that you’ve been acting a little off.” That broke me.

I cried. And cried. Falling into Yami’s arms I cried. 

Then I screamed. And screamed. Hitting Yami’s chest with all the force I could muster.

Before I knew it everyone was running towards us. Me. I just continued to cry as Vanessa came up to hug me. 

“What’s wrong?” 

“My baby. My baby.” I didn’t even know I was pregnant. I lost my child before I even knew them

“What baby?” 

“Yami.” I pleaded for him to explain I couldn’t do it.

Thankfully Yami understood my plea and explained it for me. I cried harder as Yami explained it. Vanessa just held me tighter. 

“I’m going to kill him.” I couldn’t even feel shocked that Gauche was the one to say it. All I could feel was everything I pushed down. 

I cried and screamed. They held me the whole way. Nero on my head. Vanessa holding my left. Yami on my right. Charmy on my lap. Henry behind me. Everyone else around me. (Zora having to hold back Gordon from hunting down and killing Langris). 

I wasn’t good. But I was better.

Chapter Text

Heart

Luck

Finral was snappy. It was clear to everyone, even Asta, at breakfast. The Heart Queen and Spirit Guardian’s didn’t know how to react. Captain of the Aqua Deer, the Fire Prince, and the Blue Rose Captain also didn’t know how to react. Not surprising. The usually most understandable member of the Black Bulls acting like he’s feral (which he is but they don’t know that).

But the one to set Finral off was of course his teacher. The Wind Guardian made the grave mistake of trying to take Finral’s food (why? Who knows). Finral stabbed the man's hand and hissed. That made all the Black Bulls jumpy. 

Finral has only hissed twice (not including this time) in the three years I’ve known him. And Noelle, Asta, and Nero have only heard Finral hiss once. At the Water Temple. We’ve all learned to associate Finral’s hissing with danger (not anger. Finral doesn't do anger).

“Let go of my food or I'll eat you .” The fork was embedded into the man’s flesh. I wouldn't be surprised if the fork has left marks on the table.

“I recommend leaving Finral alone right now. That is unless you wanna die.” I smiled at him. I’m always smiling but this time I'm specifically smiling at him. “But if you want to die, keep doing what you're doing. It’s a great way to get into an early grave!” 

The Wind Guardian let go of Finral’s plate. Finral harshly pulled the fork out of his flesh and continued eating as if the fork doesn't have blood on it. I giggled and the rest of the Black Bull’s relaxed slightly. Slightly, they know better than to completely lower their guard when one of their own is on edge. 

“Are you alright, Vice Captain Roulacase?” Finral turned to Captain Rose and smiled. 

“I’m lovely. How can I not be when I have a beautiful lady concerned for my well being? Thank you for asking.” He said this as if the plate wasn’t cracking under the force of the pressure he was using with the fork.

“Of, of course.” Then without warning he stood up, almost knocking his chair down. 

“I’m going to head in for training early. Find me if you need me.” The underlying message in Finral’s words, I feel like shit today and want to beat the ever living crap out of everyone. Don’t bother me unless someone is dying. Which is a message that only the Black Bulls got.

He portaled out of the room and the rest of the Black Bulls breathed. Even I have to admit that this is the closest I’ve seen Finral get to mad and it’s slightly scary. He’s always the calmest one, even if he doesn't act like it.

His mana was feelable. It’s never feelable. A place Finral was just at feels just like a place he hasn’t been to in days. You don’t know Finral’s there unless he lets you know he’s there. This is different, he doesn't want us to know he's there and is having a hard time hiding it. 

That’s not like Finral. 

“Hey. How long have we been here?” Charmy looks up to the Heart queen.

“Almost three weeks.”

“La. That’s why.” Charmy nodded.

“You figured out why Finral’s acting like Gauche.”

“That’s rude Stupidsta. Gauche is ten times meaner and would have just blasted Smurik. Not giving him a warning then blasted him. Finral’s acting more like Zora if you really have to compare.” Noelle huffs. 

“It’s happening. It’s not supposed to be happening.” My smile faltered for a moment at Nero’s words. 

Pregnant omegas don’t have heats.

Finral’s in heat.

“Should we do something? Not like I care or anything.” Asta shakes his head at Noelle’s question

“Nah. It’s best to leave it be. Maybe give extra food or scent something but other than that leave it. We dealt with this in the church a lot.”

“Well! If Finral’s doing early training, so am I. I mean it’s Finral.” I stuffed Finral and my food in my mouth and headed to the training ground. Asta and Noelle are not far behind. I mean it’s Finral. The person who only trains after being forced to by the Captain kicking and screaming. 

It was funny to watch as Finral fought so hard to get out of training by any excuse possible.

But instead of going to meet Asta and Gadjah, I head to Finral. It’s worrying how easy it is to find Finral, it’s not normally this easy to find Finral. When I did find him an arrow flew by. Arrow after arrow. I could hear birds squawking and scattering as the arrow’s flew by. 

Finral hates hunting.

Finral gasps as he tumbles down to the ground. Arms wrapped around him as he looks at me. Hugging, hugging is new, something only done after the dungeon mission. Far more frequently after the Underwater Temple mission. So the look of surprise on Finral’s face isn’t shocking.

Nossiling and purring I just lay on top of Finral. He just lays on his back hugging me back. It was different from normal. My fight, fight, fight, approche wouldn’t work on Finral. It never does but he appreciates the thought. Hugging is nice. Though I think this is more of a cuddling session now. 

This isn’t like with Mom. Or with Magna. She pet me, cuddles me, scent me. There was nothing she didn’t do to make sure I didn’t have her scent on me. She made sure to mark me as hers and only hers. Just like what I do with Magan. Steal his clothes, his food, his scent. Everything on him smells like me to the point where you can’t smell Magna or the other Black Bulls (if you smell for almost two minutes you can smell Captain on Magna). As if he only has me. 

Just like Mom did with me.

But this isn’t like that. Little scent. Little holding on for dear life. Just little of anything. Finral’s holding me lightly (is he even holding me at all?), slight purring, and little scent (banna heat is the most prominent). Same as me, holding him lightly, puring slightly, little scent.

Then the tears. The despair. The self loathing. The everything kicks in. Comfort is more my sister’s thing. I’m not good with it. Fighting won’t help and I only know how to communicate through fighting. Still I let Finral hold me as he cries. 

It’s the best that I can do.

Noelle

Despite Asta’s words I still couldn't help but worry. Grabbing some food after training I look for one of Finral’s mana spots. An entry way to his hideaway. Only Black Bulls can enter without asking for Finral’s permission each time.

Finding one (they move every time, just like the base) I enter. It was my room the Finral made for me, all the Bull’s have one even the magic beast’s. It was empty except for a few spare clothes (and spare nest)  like always. Leaving my room here I head to Finral’s room.

I entered without knocking, knowing if he didn’t want me in here he could easily make me leave. He was there, laying in bed, wearing one of Captain Yami’s tank tops, brown leggings, a jean skirt, and a black cardigan. 

I froze for a moment at the sight of the mating mark. 

Shaking my head I plopped next to Finral’s bed. The dark green and black floor feels cold. Feels safe. Finral always feels safe.

“I brought food. Don’t worry I didn’t make it. Charmy made it. Your favorite meat pie and onigiri. Along with some milk.” Finral looked at me for the first time. I almost flinched, his eyes looked so much darker than normal.

“Thanks.”

“Of course, Big Brother.” The words just slipped out. Not sure why, Finral’s nothing like Nozel of heaven forbid Solid. But before I can even overthink it, Finral just eats. He probably hasn’t even registered the words. 

I fell asleep head on the edge of Finral’s bed, safer than I have ever been in Silva castle.

I just hoped I helped somehow.

Charmy

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate. 

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate.

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate.

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate.

Over and Over. 

Those were what Owen told me that people must eat after Miscarage. Yogurt mixed with almonds for breakfast, or eggs. More milk drinks. Seeds, oranges, and dark chocolate left out to snack on. More meat pies, fish, and beans for dinner. Seeds, dark chocolate, and almond trail mix.

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate. 

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate.

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate.

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate.

Over and Over again. 

It’s not that hard to incorporate those foods into meals. Trail mix and protein bars are a staple food. Due to Gauche, Zora, Magna, Asta, Captain Yami, Gray, and Finral all having food staches hidden around the base. Though now they are made with more seeds, almonds, and dark chocolate. 

Beans and red meat or beans and fish meat became a staple dinner, along with choice of drink being milk. Oranges and eggs became a well liked brunch snack. Though nobody likes spinach, they eat it anyway. 

It’s not hard for me to track the cycles of the other members. They either eat more or less than normal when on their cycles. Finral always eats a small portions of food (Captain Yami said he could count Finral’s ribs when he first joined) and eats even less during heat (I tried not to be hurt knowing that he hoards food as if i’m not going to feed him; I tried to not feel hurt that they all think they need to with me). Still I made a feast. 

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate. 

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate.

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate.

Beans and Lentils, Spinach, Turmeric and Milk drink, Seeds, fish meat, Yogurt, Almonds, Eggs, Orange, Red meat, and Dark chocolate.

Just for Finral. Comfort is something I can only do through food. I know Finral appreciates it.

Asta

I’m not stupid, despite what everyone says. Oblivious? Yes. Annoying? Yes. Stupid? No. 

All I could do was treat Finral the same. So I did. There was nothing I could do. I can’t go back in time. Can’t heal Finral. 

All I could do was treat Finral like Finral. 

So I did. 

From Finral’s Ki it was obvious he picked up on the forced normaley. 

He appreciated it all the same.

Nero

“Pain gets easier with time.” He doesn't say anything in return.

“It won’t fully go away. No pain ever does.” He still doesn't speak. That’s fine. 

“The fear along with the pain won’t go away either. It will most likely get worse.” A small sniffle came from him. 

“But that’s fine. We’ll be here for you. Through fear and pain. We will be here. It won’t go away. But it’ll get easier.” His shoulders were shaking now.

“It was not your fault, Finral.” He sobbed.

And sobbed.

And sobbed.

He probably doesn't believe that he’s not at fault. But he needed to hear the words non the less. Being five hundred and seventeen years old has made me learn many things in life.

That even if you don’t believe in something said it’s nice to hear it said.

Chapter Text

Spade

“If you don’t tell them I will. Consider that an order from your Vice Captain.” Those words have been swimming around in my head for days.

It’s not like I don’t understand why he gave me that ultimatum. I do. Vice Captain Nacht does not know me. He has no reason to believe I would never betray them. 

Doesn’t stop the hurt though.

The Black Bulls hiding out somewhere to recuperate. Yami, Captain Vangeance, and Queen Lolopechka are taking a shower. Yami being forced to by the rest of the Black Bulls and Captain Vangeance and Queen Lolopechka politely asking to use it. Awkwardly I show my brother, Yuno, and Mimosa a room they can share, connected to Captain Vangeance’s room. They don’t complain or ask for a separate room, just sleep. Yuno and Langris cuddling together on the floor and Mimosa on the bed. I let the three alphas sleep. Then showing Gadjah a room where he can sleep, connected to Queen Lolopechka’s room.

The Dark Triad was still out there. We only got Yami, Captain Vangeance, and Queen Lolopechka back by less defeating the Dark Triad; more distracting them enough to get Yami, Captain Vangeance and Queen Lolopechka back. Eating the yogurt I waited for Yami to come down the stairs. Or more accurately wait for Yami to be done so I could portal him down the stairs.

Even after six months of being apart except for a few instances, I still portal him to the bathroom, dining room, his room, Captain meetings, and etc. All by habit at this point. Guess being with someone for almost seven years straight makes it impossible to break habits. 

Doesn't matter if you're in another country or not.

“Are you going to stare at me all night or are you going to eat something?” I gesture to the food that you're supposed to eat after a miscarage. Despite no longer needing to eat them after the third month. But I couldn’t be mad, I knew she cared. 

He sat down grabbing a bowl of sunflower seeds. Stealing food is a no in the Black Bulls (unless it’s Luck taking Magna’s food or me taking Yami’s food). Too many of us have known hunger to even consider having our food stolen (even by family). Clutching the bowl of yogurt closer by reflex I eat slightly faster. 

The rest of the squad are in varying states of consciousness around the common room. But all conscious non the less. As well as varying states of dress as well, though that has more to do with the fighting then anything else. Even my pants are more or less charred beyond use. Note to self toss these pants out later. There is no saving them. 

Finishing the yogurt I flicked my wrist and Yami came through. Of course shirtless and only in boxers. Frankly, I'm just happy that any of the Black Bulls wear clothes at all. I hand Yami his food while getting up. A bowl of Gyudon, a Sunlander dish. He sits down in the chair I was just sitting in putting his food on the table and I plop down on his lap. 

Yami ate as the rest of the Bulls moved to the table to see Yami. Asta sat down in Vice Captains Nacht lap. Nero on Asta’s head and the devils on Asta’s lap. Luck on Magna’s lap, along with a red face Magna sitting in a chair. Henry the farthest away laying on his bed. Everyone else is sitting in chairs.

It was long before the silence was broken.

“What do we do next?” The question was, of course, voiced by Atsa.

“Goldie and I will have a communication meeting with the other Captains in the mornin. After that we plan. Right now we rest.” I took a deep breath of the calming scent that Yami was letting out.

“Finral.” I flinched at Vice Captain Nacht’s voice. 

“I know.” I muttered loud enough for everyone to hear. 

“What’s the matter, Wheels?” I played with Yami’s fingers. My legs blocking access to Yami’s katana. 

“It’s hard to figure out the place to start this.” I shrugged. 

“How about we start when you went to Spade the first time.” The kaiken tied around my dominant wrist felt heavy.

“I guess this started when I was kidnapped when I was seventeen. And taken to Spade.” 

I didn’t look at anyone. Just kept my hands and eyes on Yami’s fingers. The story wasn’t particularly traumatizing. More shameful and embarrassing. Though I know no one here would think so. 

“Passed out in my nest that night. Got up to what I think was the next day, got changed, and told Yami I was home. Then passed out again.” Putting Yami’s hand down I grabbed a bowl of trail mix without looking up at anyone.

“What does something that happened five years ago have to do with the now ? The mark would be faded by now.” Gauche asked. Vanessa, Yami, and Noelle were frozen. They have all seen the mark.

Finishing the trail mix in my mouth I put the bowl down. Putting my hand on my robe it fell without fluresh. Showing my mark that has not in fact faded. I heard Zora’s breath hitch. They were starting to fill in the pisces. 

“After that would be the Forest Of Witches.”

I moved my hand up to touch my mark. If none of this had happened it would have faded by now.

“In my sleep deprived head when Charmy woke me up too and I quote “Find food to heal curses” I didn’t think it was Asta’s curse, just Charmy being Charmy. Didn’t realize till after Gauche and Gordon left. But by then it was already too late. 

It became my fault that we went to the Forest Of Witches.”

“Oh.” Was the only thing that Asta could say.

“That was when you got pregnant.” The words that no one wanted to hear were of course spoken by Zora. Once again not answering I just went on.

“Finally was the Royal Knight’s Entrance Exam.” By the end of that story silent tears were falling down my face.

“Of course my dumbass let Little Langris hit me. Because of course I did. And so it's not like Spade was any help. I still lost. So the whole entire ordeal was completely useless in the end. Absolutely useless!” Ending the sentence with laughter was probably not a good idea but all I really could do was laugh.

“I’m going to bed.” Laughing still, I get up from Yami’s lap. Before anyone could say anything I was gone.

The benefits of being a Spatial mage is that if you don’t want to be found you aren’t found. 

“You really can cheat Ki. Never thought I would see you do it.” I didn’t answer him.

“Thank you, by the way. For the potion, I mean.” 

“I do it a hundred times over. All of you. You are my pack Asta. You all are my family.” 

“You're a good big brother.”

“Langris would disagree.”

“Well Gauche is always ready to fight Vice Captain Langris for the position of your asshole little brother.” I poked my head down from the roof rafters to face Asta. Raising an eyebrow at his language.

“Gauche’s words, not mine.” I snorted at that.

“Yeah that’s not surprising.”

“Why are you hiding?” I held back a sigh at those words. Politics.

“Omega’s are considered the weaker gender. When the Wizard King finds out, which he will because Yami is obliged by law to tell him and even Yami doesn't say no to the Wizard King, he’ll have to make a decision. If I'm too much of a liability on the field or not.

That’s not including the backlash from this. I’ll either be treated like glass for such a “traumatizing” event or with scorn for being an enemy’s omega. There’s even a good chance I’ll be stripped of my standing as a Magic Knight and be used as bait for Zenon. Not like that’ll work, I barely call the two of us friends.

In simple words Asta, politics.” Asta face scrunched up at the word hating it just as much as all the other Black Bulls.

“Captain Yami won't ever let you out of his sight. Even in the Heart Kingdom you always take an hour out of every day to talk with him. Portal him wherever he needs to go without him telling you. You are Yami’s right hand, always by his side. I know Captain Yami will fight to keep you here. We all will.”

“Thanks Asta.” I couldn’t help the smile that creeped onto my face.

Eating the food Asta brought, delicious meat pie, he left after I finished eating. With that I went back to hiding in the rafters till the meeting ends and Yami comes with the verdiect. The ever changing rafters gently start to move. My hammock gently swung back and forth. Putting on my Black Bulls robe I drop down from the rafters when they stop. Not liking the idea of leaving my nest.

Dropping down on his bed I had my back facing him. I couldn’t see him. He really deserves someone better.

“Did you know short stack and golden boy are together? That was a shocker.” I couldn’t help but snort at that. It was so unexpected.

“Yeah, I did. Can’t exactly hide it from me when I caught the two of them making out. Though they both did try to hide it.” We fell into silence then.

“Give it to me straight Sukehiro. What’s the verdict.” The use of his first name slipped my tongue. The first time using it in the seven years we’ve known each other.

I always thought the first time I used his name would be far more romantic than this, my mind stupidly supplied. 

“What no Yami?”

“I figured that your first name would be far more appropriate. For whatever is to happen to me.” For all I know I would be treated as a Spade soldier. 

“I’m surprised you even know Sukehiro’s my first name.” 

“When I was learning how to speak your mother tongue it said that you introduce yourselves last name first, first name last in your home country. That and I also do all the paperwork. So I have a copy of your citizenship paperwork. It's not hard.” I shrugged.

“Say it again.” 

“Hm?”

“My name, say it again.”

“Sukehiro.”

“Again.”

“Sukehiro.”

“Again.”

“Suke. 

Hiro. 

Sukehiro.” Yami got up and moved towards the bed

“Again.” He demanded this time his voice closer.

“Sukehiro.” He dropped on the bed next to me.

“Again.” I turned to face him this time.

“Sukehiro Yami.” 

We laid in silence. But I couldn’t, I had to know. No matter what it was.

“What’s gonna to happen to me, Captain?” Captain: [ˈkapt(ə)n]. NOUN, the person in command of a ship. VERB, be the captain of (a ship, aircraft, or sports team). A word I haven't used to describe Yami Sukehiro since my first day as a Magic Knight.

“Don’t call me Captain. There’s only four people on this squad, including you. There’s no need for formality. Call me, Yami.”

“I managed to convince old Julius to not consider you a liability on the field. Admittedly you are going to be under watch by me. So nothings going to be any real difference. You're always on my right in battle and never that far from my side outside of battle. So nothings gonna be different.”

“Don’t bullcrap a bull, Yami-”

“Sukehiro.”

“You and I both know I'm going to be monitored for years. There’s going to be an underlying thought that this person is untrustworthy.” There was a slight scent of distress in the air, coming from me. 

“You're wearing my robe.”

“What?” I looked down at the robe I was wearing and it was indeed in fact one of Yami’s spare robes.

“Oh, It was in my nest. Guess I left mine in the dining room.”

“You did.” Surprising me was the cold, dry, and cracked lips pressed against my forehead.

“Everything will be fine. I promise you that. Have I ever lied to you?”

“Once. So long ago.”

“Have I ever since?”

“No. No lies.”

“Then believe me when I say everything is going to be fine, Finral.”

“Okay, 

Sukehiro.”

War was outside. Fate unknown. But right now it was comfort.

Chapter Text

After

Finral

"How the fuck did you get pregnant?!?"  Magna yelled at me. Which is fair, I didn’t think I could get pregnant again. Even Doc. Owen thought my chances were low.

Henry, Luck, Asta, Zora, Noelle and Vice Captain Faust all poured their scent on me. It is quite comforting. At least I think Vice Captain Faust's scent is meant to be comforting. I still don’t know him well enough to consider it comforting.

But the thought is what counts.

"Well when a dick is shoved-"

"I didn't ask you Vanessa!" Vanessa's scent of fancy wine and bird feathers was calming.

"I'm sorry Virgin Street Punk I thought you asked." Magna’s face got even redder.

"That doesn't mean you answer! Also don't call me a STREET PUNK!"

"So it's okay to call you a virgin?" Zora was sitting next to Noelle and Nero. He always yells at the street punk part but not the virgin part. Was wondering if anyone was going to catch on.

"Yep! He is still as innocent as a rose! Or at least I think that's the saying!" Luck laughed and I can completely believe that Luck is not a virgin. Wow, I never thought I would say that sentence.

“Like you're not!” Magna shouted back.

“Nope. Not a virgin!” I had to hold in a laugh at that. 

"What's all the racket about?" Yami asked. Why? I knew I had to tell him eventually but now. Damn it, I'm not ready.

"Racket? We, beta's been quiet." Gauche muttered while staring at a picture of Marie. And it's true, Gordon, Gauche, Charmy, and Grey have been quiet.

"It's just that we found out Finral's pregnant, we're just a little shocked is all." Vice Captain Faust rubbed my back very awkwardly. It was obvious to everyone that Vice Captain Faust was very awkward around me right now. Well awkward around me period. It was clear from the beginning that he did not like me.

"You got knocked up? I thought you had to get a date for that?" That’s the first thing you say to me!

"Are you seriously dissing my flirting skills now of all time! Are you kidding me?!" 

"No. So got any clue who the father is? Oh great playboy."

"Obviously I don't, Yami. " The messaging between the words was caught by him. It’s not yours. 

Luck pulled at Magna’s robe, leading him outside. I wished I could leave as well. 

“Do you plan on keeping them?” It was Asta that asked the question. Of course it was him. I sighed as that quieted everyone down. There’s no leaving this conversation. And with Magna outside I can’t even use him as a diversion anymore.

“If you need the money for it-” I put up my hand to stop Vanessa.

“Thank you for the offer. But I am keeping the baby. Besides you and I know I would be paying for it all and you give me a I owe you.” Vanessa pouted at that.

“I’m not that broke.” Everyone raised an eyebrow at that. No one had money after payday but me. Everyone is flat out broke on any given day including payday. The treasure room is an old broom closet Gordon and I cleaned out just so we can say we have a treasure room. 

That sentence is the biggest bullshit any Bull has ever heard. 

“That’s the biggest bullshit I've ever heard. And I listened to Noelle trying to convince Luck she didn’t like Asta.” Zora bursted out laughing as Gauche spoke. Soon everyone burst out laughing, even Vanessa, while Noelle tried to deny that, red faced. When everyone calmed down it was Grey that asked a question.

“Do you have names picked out?” Gordon in Gordon fashion pulled out a book of baby names. Despite knowing him for seven years (have I really been a Black Bull for eight years now?) I still have no clue what goes on in his head. And at this moment in time I'm glad for that.

“I have a list of names that I have that would be wonderful for Captain Yami’s and your kid.-

“The kid isn’t Sukehiro’s, Gordon. Remember? I said that already.” That deadpan statement made the room freeze. Despite everything, me and Yami aren’t together. All there really is is literal sleeping together. Nothing in our relationship has changed in years. I rub my wrist where the kaiken Yami gave me is tied with one of Rouge’s threads. Not sure when but I realized it was easier to use when it was on my dominant side not my right side. 

A touch of fate telling me that I'm Yami’s right hand?

I wouldn’t be surprised. Vanessa is a romantic like that. But I don’t think it’s that. More along the lines of coincidence. 

“Anyways I already have names picked out. Vega or Fae for a girl. Allen for a boy.” I just hope they're not twins. My family has had twins before. It’s a recessive trait, thankfully. I don’t think I could handle two kids at once and I am not asking my Father for advice.

“OOOOOOOOHHHHHHH! I need to make food that’s healthy for the baby! BOTH for now and when they are born. Oh, the calf is going to be spoiled FAT!” Charmmy to save us from the awkwardness. Always about food.

“Calf?”

“Means baby bull.” Nero answered Noelle’s question.

“You’ll need to take a daily prenatal vitamin or folic acid supplement.” Zora threw out.  Wait, why does he know that?

“High-fiber foods. Whole grains like bread or pasta, popcorn, oats and quinoa. Fruits like berries, apples, bananas and oranges. OOh! And vegetables like carrots, broccoli, artichokes and potatoes.

Not forgetting the protein-rich foods like Meat, eggs, cottage cheese, yogurt, peanuts, peanut butter, and pumpkin seeds.

Healthy fats as well. Avocados, cheese, dark chocolate, eggs, salmon, nuts, olive oil, and dairy.” 

“Don’t ….. forget ….. baby ….. stuff…. I’ll ….. make ….. a ….. Room.” Henry.

“Three square meals a day!” Charmy.

“Baby clothes!” Vanessa.

“Dippers.” Grey.

“Marie would love a little sister.” Gauche. Of course it’s Marie.

“Everyone SHUT UP!” Yami broke the wall and everyone jumped. All I could do was sigh.

“Stop breaking the wall. Just because Henry can fix it doesn't mean you can break it.”

“Gauche, Asta, Nero, you three are in charge of making sure all the idiots know what not to do and what to do. Can’t believe you three are the only ones with baby experience. Maya you're in charge of making sure Finral doesn't do anything stupid. Nacht, you're in charge of all the Vice Captain duties. Vanessa, make the baby clothes. 

Gordon, ask the Quak what medicine the two need and make it. Henry, make a storage room across from Finral’s room. Magna, Luck, and Noelle, will be in charge of extra jobs to earn money for the baby. We all know we need extra money.``

“Stop gambling away our money and we have more of it.” Both me and Nacht said at the same time. Creepy but Yami ignored us. 

“Charmy, food for the baby and Finral. That leaves Grey and Zora to grab the baby stuff. Like a crib or something. Whatever those things will be. We’ll put the stuff in the storage room Henry’s making. I’ll move Finral’s stuff to make way for the baby stuff.”

“You do know that I can do things, right?”

“If I let you do anything you do everything.”  

“Fair.” I can't argue with that.

“Tomorrow. For now everyone SHUT UP.”

“Yes Captain.”

“Whatever you say, Sukehiro.”

With that I threw up on the floor along with my boots. Ugh, I didn’t even feel nauseous. Noelle screamed while Asta picked me up bridal style and carried me to the bathroom. Charmy asked where the broom was. Grey and Vanessa answering. And that was the last I heard as I was seated in front of the toilet. 

Thankfully not Yami’s private one.

I coughed again. Hacking up what bile was left over. Sighing I portaled myself a glass of water. Asta rubbed my back which was far more comforting than Vice Captain Faust. 

“You good?” Maya asked in her tiny form from the sink. Sitting next to Liebe. Both wearing tiny Black Bull robes. Because Vaness couldn’t help herself and made them all tiny little robes. From Nero to Maya. But ファック it’s the cutes thing ever. Not like I’ll ever tell them that. 

“I’m pregnant.” I deadpanned at them. Liebe just snorts and shakes his head.

“But seriously are you okay? Pregnancy after a loss, especially when it’s just been a year, is hard on the body. You're also twenty three, most male omega’s stop pupping at thirty.”

“Ugh. Did ya have ta remind me how old I am, Asta?” I love you kid but you do not know how to read a room. Even if that room is the bathroom.

“Sorry.”

“But in all honesty I am fine. Just need to get some sleep, that's all. Tell everyone I'm heading to bed.”

“Ky.” Asta.

“Night.” Liebe.

“Don’t die tripping over your own feet.” Maya. I chuckled at that. 

“No. So got any clue who the father is? Oh great playboy."

Ugh. Think. Who even is the father? It has to have been around the week of celebrating the defeat of Spade. We defeated Spade and promptly passed out after healing for most people. After that I had a Captains meeting and kept rubbing my now markless neck. Had that damned mark for nearly six years. 

After that we partied in the Heart Kingdom. Drunk off my roker I grabbed our stuff from the Heart Kingdom and moved it back home. Then all of the Bulls woke up completely hungover. Gauche, Grey, and Gordon pretending that they completely didn’t sleep with each other last night. Mainly so Grey doesn't explode from embarrassment. Luck and Magna are still not sleeping with each other. Everyone else woke up in the common room in a varying state of undress due to strip poker. Ranging from Magna and Yami nude to Vanessa and Nero completely dressed.

What happened that night?

“I’m going to move our stuff from our room back to the base.” I said as everyone unanimously agreed that they didn’t want me playing. For the fact that I cheat and they can’t prove it.

Four barrels of alcohol in and I'm tipsy. The light weight member of the Bull’s, Magna, can drink three barrels till he gets drunk off his rocker. Drinking parties are normal. Moving my tipsy but to the rooms where we were staying I drink the bottle in my hand.

It was stronger than what I'm used to. As designated portaler my job is to usually stay sober while everyone else gets drunk off their rocker. Not like I drink often anyways. Alcohol doesn't mix well with my medication so I usually don’t drink. 

Portalling my drunk self more bottles and moving the stuff back to the hideout I bump into someone. In my non sober state I giggled moving to turn towards the person I bumped into. I giggled again when I realized who it was. The medication and alcohol mixing was causing loss of coordination.

“ Hi!” I giggled again leaning against him. Feeling more drowsy than normal. 

“ Shouldn’t you be at the party?”

“I was moving everyones stuff back home.” I clenched his shirt in my hand as I leaned against him, giggling. His scent was something I hated. It always smelled awful to me. Even now it does. But I couldn’t help but laugh at the scent for some reason.

“ And what pray tell is so funny?” His Heart Kingdom accent was thick in his voice. It made me laugh again. I always like it when Yami speaks with his natal accent, not the Clover one he gained over time.

“ You're funny.” I giggled again. Everything is funny. Is this how Maya see’s us? Funny little creatures doing funny little things.

“Dance with me!” I chirped, my voice going high. 

“Dance? There’s no music.”

“But there is! Can’t you hear it?” I moved my hand to his heart. It beat and beat. I nodded my head to the beating.

Moving his hand to my waist we moved to the beat. Moving in a circle to the beat. I kept giggling. Tripping over and over my feet we fell on the floor. I giggled again and again. Soon his lips were on mine and the rest went from there.

When I woke up I was dressed. Alone. In the bed of my room at the Heart Kingdom place. A giant headache that was killing me. I just forgot about it not thinking it was a big deal. Ugh, now I wish I bothered figuring out who it was. But it wasn’t the first time I slept with someone not knowing who they are or not remembering them in the morning. But this is the first time it resulted in this result.

Sighing, I opened the door to Yami’s room. Might as well not even bother pretending I sleep anywhere else. The door connecting my room to Yami’s was open. Closing the door I moved closer seeing Yami moving the furniture to the door. Not like there was any stuff in the room besides furniture that was already here when I moved in. 

“Hey, Sukehiro.”

“Wheels.” 

“Help?”

“No thanks. Do you feel any better?”

“Just tired.”

“Head to bed. I’ll be in shortly. Just moving the last of the stuff into the storage closet.” 

“K. Night.”

“Night, Finral.” Giving him a kiss goodnight on the cheek I head back to his room. Not going to even bother pretending I'm going to sleep, I get to work on some paperwork backlog. Soon I fell asleep at the desk while I tried to figure out the budget. It’s going to be a disaster with the baby and they're not even here yet.

When I woke up in bed next to Yami my first thought was how the fuck am I going to tell Langris?

Zora

“How’d we get stuck ‘n this job?” I could not help but ask Grey. Nothing against Grey, there good people, if questionable taste in men. But just how we two got stuck on this job.

“Because everyone else has a different job. We were the only two people left that didn’t have one.”

“Righ’.” Today was the day after Finral dropped the pregnancy bomb. In the morning during breakfast everyone dragged together our pathetic amount of money, Finral of course was the richest because he takes on the most jobs and does the least amount of property damages, and was given a list of everything needed, of course made by Asshole, Gran, and Asta, and headed to the shopping district of the nobel realm to find sed items on our list with our pathetic amount of yule.

This is gonn’ end well.

Note my sarcasm.

“Zora?”

“If it ain't the Flower Power Siblin’s. How’s it goin’ Pampered Pink Prissy Princess and Mimosa.”

“Of course you call my sister by her name.” Kirsch sighs as Mimosa laugh’s at that. The smell of cherry mochi and the kirsch plant coming from the ever beautiful omega Kirsch Vermillion. While the belladonna plant and mimosa tree smell comes from the surprising alpha Mimosa. Two of the three, four if you include Crazy Lion, royals I can stand.

“What are you two doing, Zora, Miss?”

“That’s Grey. Don’t expect a response from them. Also try to avoid talkin’ to them, Kirsch. There my superior in the Bulls. We’re just shoppin’ for shit that i’m pretty sure we don’ have the money for is all.” It’s best if Mimosa and Kirsch don’t talk to Grey. They have shit self image issues as it is and Kirsch’s habit of calling everything and everyone “not beautiful”, well it’s best if they don’ interact.

“We could pay if you want?” 

“That’s na necessary.”

“That is very much needed.” Grey and I looked at each other in slight shock.

“We need the money.” True. Especially since everyone that would be invited to a baby shower already chipped in money (besides short stack asshole, We even had Finral portal us to, waitress chick, baby lion, and baby Captain to tell them the news and get some money from them. Or them getting some things off the list).

“We have plenty.”

“We - we need 50,000 yule. We barely have 35,000 yule - yule. That’s barely close to getting - getting everything we need. And I - I really don’t want to go and have to ask Captain Vangeance for money.” The again was unsaid. I still can’t believe Finral actually asked Captain Vangeance for money when the Black Bulls were about to be in the Financially In The Red Bulls.

“Fair.” I turned back to face the Flower Power Siblins’.

“Don’t expect your money back. Because we most definitely can not ever pay it back.” I would have fought more if we really didn’t need these things. The idea of getting money from high class doesn’t sit well with me. Unless it’s Old man Julius. 

“We’re royals, we don't have to worry about things like money.” Kirsch laughed behind his fan and by god I wanted to smack that fan out of his hand and kiss him senseless. But shop first, have wet daydreams second.

“It’s nothing. Anything to help a friend.” The slight anger in Mimosa's voice completely went over Kirsch's head.

“Do you have a list of things you need?”

“Uh, yeah. Grey.” They eeped and handed me the list. Which I then handed to the siblings.

List of stuff for a baby

Feeding

• bibes

• bottles

• Burp cloths

• High chair

• Bottle cooler

• Bottle drying rack

• Battle warmer/sterilizer

• Breast pump

• Breastfeeding accessories

• cups

• Nipple cream

• Nursing pillow

• Solid feeding

Sleeping

• Baby monitor

• Bassinet or Bedside Sleeper

• crib

• Crib mattress

• Crib sheets

• swaddles

• Sound machine or smother

Diapering

• Changing Pad

• Changing pad covers

• Changing tables

• Cream/ointment

• diapers

• Diaper bag

• Diaper pail

• wipes

• Wipe warmer/ dispenser

Baby Gear

• Carrier or wrap

• Infant or convertible broom seat

• stroller

• Travel crib

• Travel system

• wagon

Health and safety

• Baby thermostat

• First aid kit

• Nasal aspirator

• pacifier

• teethers

• Brush and combs

• humidifiers

Bathing

• bathtub

• towels

• Bath accessories

• Bath toys

• Wash clothes

Nursery and Decor

• Chest or dresser

• Glider or rocking chair

• hamper

• lighting

• mobile

• Storage and organization

• Wall decor

Playing

• Activity gym /mat

• books

• bouncer

• playard

• Seat or lounger

• Soft plush toys

• swing

• toys

• walker

Clothes

• Bodysuits (long and short)

• booties

• footies

• hats

• pants

• Socks

• Headbands

• Mittens

• Outerwear

• Outfit set

• Shoes

“Baby supplies?” Kirsch looked at the list then at me red faced. “You don’t seem like the type to want kids.” There was a slight bitterness in Kirsch’s sickly sweet omega scent.

“Believe it or not I do want kids. I like little rugrats.” Though it’s not surprising that he thought that. An omega like myself that’s feral, like most of the Black Bulls, wannit kids. Guess that’s surprising.

“The rest of the Black Bulls must be so excited!” Mimosa chuffed. Prideful little alpha. Almost hard to believe she’s almost twenty now. She was barely sixteen when we first met, grownin into a fine Magic Knight.

“We - we are!” 

“Any ideas on what shop sells baby crap? Cause I got no clue.” Shopping for a baby will be easier if we know where to shop for said baby.

“Guess that’s the first order of business!” Mimosa chuffed again and we started moving to look for baby stores. Well they looked for stores, I looked at Kirsch’s ass through his shitty fashion sense.

When we finally found a decent store that wont make Grey (and Finral) feel too bad for spending the Flower Power Siblin’s money and keep some of my pride, Grey and I went in without a second thought. Mimosa followed soon after a moment. Krisch messed with the gold collar around his neck for a moment then came in. 

Oh. Right. An omega or women that is not married or matted shopping for baby supplies are looked down upon. Grey has the collar of her shirt blocking her bare neck but she smells like Asshole Mirror and Poison Creep (and the Captain) that would make other people think she's mated. My mask hides my bare neck and I reek of the little fire nut (and the Captain) which would also make people think I’m mated. 

Not like either of us care. We give too little shits about what people think. Kinda necessary when you're a Black Bull. 

Mimosa probably realized this too. But Alpha’s always have more wiggle room than other genders. Even female Alpha’s. Krisch probably faces the most scrutiny coming in here unmatted that cares (or supposed to anyways).

Especially since most Omega’s (and women) his age (especially high class ) are married and pupped out a kid or two. Considering Krisch is twenty two and omega’s stop pupping at thirty. Oh wow. I’m gonna be thirty in two years. Shit, time flys. 

“We - we can skip Bodysuits, Footies, Hats, Pants, Socks, Headbands, Mittens, Outerwear, and - and Outfit sets. Vanessa has - has thoughts covered.” Grey stammered out. 

“We should get three booties and three shoes.” Mimosa, the saint in human flesh that she is, took over the conversation.

“We should probably get them on the bigger size, we might save a bit of money that way. Also might be able to put them in storage in case someone else gets pregnant. Or decide to adopt.” If Magna and Luck adopts it better not be a baby. (Magna wants to have a kid but doesn't want to force Luck, who doesn’t want a kid, so is very, very, very slowly trying to bring up the talk of adoption to Luck.)

“Rebecca has those covered - covered. The booties and shoes.” Oh yah. Waitress does have it covered.

“Right. Clothing’s taken care of.”

“Do either of you two have partners? Kids are hard to raise alone.” Krisch voices his curiosity while looking between two stuffed bunnies. Grey squeaks at the question.

“Na. Completely single. Grey has there partners. Besides we aren’ raisen the kid alone. We got the other Bulls to help. (Not sure how much help they will be though).” I grabbed the stuffed bull toy instead of the bunny, showing it to Krisch.

“That’s sweet. Everyones helping.” Mimosa was practically beaming. “We should split the list between everyone. Since we don’t need the clothing we can have two columns between everyone. Sounds good?” Krisch and I nodded while Grey squeaked.

I got playing and nursery and decor (that last one much to Krisch’s clear disappointment). Health and safety, and bathing went to Mimosa (health and safety is obviously something up her alley). Diapering and baby gear went to Grey. Sleeping and feeding went to Krisch (much to his embarrassment on the feeding aspect). 

“We can trade if you want?” Offering my quarter of the paper.

“No. It’s fine. I should get used to this when I have kids.”

“Wont you have servant’s to get you the highest grade baby stuff and to do the nitty gritty dirty stuff?”

“I don’t want to leave my kids to the servants. That's not the kind of parent I want to be.” He shook his head of what most likely was a memory. “So how far along is the baby?”

 It was obvious that Krisch was changing the subject. “About a month.” I let him.

We took a good few hours in the store grabbing what there was. Mimosa even found a cute bull onesie that was most definitely going into the cart. A few things that needed to be bought double or more. We more or less have everything on the list.

“I can’t believe that it took five hours.” The Flower Power Slibin’s looked at eachother then to me.

“We can believe it.” Creepy how they said it at the exact same time.

We moved all the stuff to the front of the store (with Mimosa guarding it). And waited for Finral to come and pick us up. Funny how Captain wont let Finral do anything for his own pregnancy other than shuttle us around like he’s a pack mule. 

“Thanks for the help, Flower Power Siblin’s. It lets us pocket the money the others gave us.” Grey gave me a squeak and the slibin’s gave me a deadpan look. We are gonna keep the money, obviously, but it’s goin in the squad’s treasury. Can’t hurt to actually have something in it. Other than one single yule.

“Don’t do anything, he says. If I let you do anything you’ll do everything, he says. Take Grey and Zora halfway across the kingdom and back, he says. I swear to god, I am not a donkey!” Finral was wearing comfy clothing other than his usual clothes. Wearing one of Captain Yami’s tank tops, brown leggings, a jean skirt, and a black cardigan. The Black Bull logo is on the pocket of his cardigan.

“What did you two do? Buy out the whole store?! We don’t have the kind of money for all of this!” Finral started panicking about our finances.

“Chill, Angel Cakes. Those two bank rolled the whole thing.” I pointed to the two royal’s next to us. 

“Vice Captain Vermillion. We’ll pay you back I guarantee it. Eventually. Probably. Thank you for the save, Princess Mimo. I owe you.”

“No problem. The pleasure is all mine, Vice Capt. Fin.” 

“You can pay me back by doing the paperwork for the next Vice Captain’s meeting, Vice Captain Roulacase.”

“I’ll take it.” Finral sighs in relief.

“Come on. Let’s get this stuff back home.” 

“We’re sorry!”

“Thank’s.”

“And thank you Princess for coming to this peasants rescue.” Taking Kirsch’s hand I kissed it looking up at him with a wink. Blushing, he left taking Mimosa with him. Note to self ask Nero for advice on royal courting.

We moved the stuff into Finral’s portal back home. Though me and Grey kinda wished we took longer. Luck was quiet and Magna had a guilty look on his face. Dinner that night was a creepily quiet affair. 

Magna

Beggin for any job there was, with decent pay, was embarrassing but worth it. Noelle took jobs that were easy enough for one person. Luck and I took the jobs that most definitely needed two people and hoped the money wouldn't go to property damages. Again.

“This is gonna be fun!” 

“I guess. But remember, keep property damage to a minimum.”

“I know! I know! Money for the baby, Finral, and whatever they need.” I sighed at that. Hopefully this mission will be an easy one.

“So find the bandits base. Beat the bandits. Simple enough.”

“I hope they have strong fighters!” The smell of fresh rain from a lightning storm and honey was in the air. It’s always in the air.

“They're weak and you know it. No way someone strong is going to be stealing small things from the forsaken realm.” Luck giggles at that tugging my jacket off me.

“Quit it.”

“No. Gimmie.”

“No. You won't ever give it back.”

“So? Gimme.”

“I have lost so many jackets and robes to you. You're even wearing one of mine right now. No.” Which is true. You could tell that the robe was mine by the scorch marks on the right shoulder. Even the robe I'm wearing now has it.

“I like wearing your clothes. Gimmie. Nessa can always make you a new one.”

I’m not sure what it was that made me snap. Was it because I'm close to my rut? That the news of Finral’s pregnancy, our pack omega’s pregnancy, my older brother's pregnancy, has got every one, especially the alpha’s, and Gauche, on edge? Or maybe because the thought of Luck full with kits has been on my mind like crazy? Could it be all three? Or none at all. But something made me snap.

“Quit it, Omega.” The command came out before I could really stop it. But the effect was instantaneous. Luck let go of my jacket. The guilt came flooding me ten fold. It wasn’t like Luck couldn’t break it. Despite the command being strong Luck could easily break it. But Luck followed the order despite being brake-able to him. The only command Luck probably couldn’t break was of someone stronger than him. I’m not stronger than Luck.

Luck didn’t speak. Just keep quiet with the smile on his face being frozen in happiness. And instead of his can’t be five centimeters away from you was now a good yard behind me. The perfect amount for a docile omega following his alpha on an outing.

“Come on, let's find the bandits.” I try ignoring the slight distress coming from Luck knowing I put it there.

Luck followed quietly behind. It bothered the hell out of me. Luck is always ahead of me. Weather in battle or not. Luck always leaves me behind. I’m left scrambling to catch up. He’s not supposed to be following quietly behind me. The little battle nut is supposed to be running on ahead, leaving me in the dust to catch up.

We never talked about commands before. Commands can be used in a sexual way. As well as an abusive way. It just never came up in conversation if Luck was comfortable with me using commands on him. I never really bothered with the thought of using them before. 

Mother and Chief made sure to beat it into my skull to never use commands. Mother was an omega that was forced to submit to my sperm donor because he overpowered her with a command. She wanted to make sure I never ended up an alpha like that, Chief was a beta who had an alpha wife, once a time, and made sure to never abuse alpha commands. 

So other than puberty when my commands slipped in by accident (like all other prepubescent alpha’s) I never really bothered with commands. I know some alpha’s use commands on people during battle to get them to submit but that never really sat well with me. With most (all) of the omega’s in the Black Bulls being feral, and have a habit of ripping alpha’s throats out. So it was just an obvious unwritten rule to not use commands. 

Guilt was eating at me. Lots of people have trauma with commands due to asshole alpha’s. And with us never bothering to talk about it I have no clue if I crossed a line, I obviously did. The light blue cardigan was baggy and the dark teal tights were hidden under it.  He was trying to hide his neck with the collar of his shirt. The collar around his neck that I gave him was a metal chain so it still let his smell out. 

When we got to the bandits Luck didn’t run ahead to take them out. He stayed behind me and used thunderbolt destruction. Never getting close to the bandits. Letting me, someone who is usually midrange to longerange, to get close to the bandits. 

It was a mess. It took longer than it should have. We got hurt more than we should have. Having Finral take us back home, something I decided since we are having issues, and sent the bandits to the cells. Luck was gone the moment we reached home. 

“Big brother?” Finral raised an eyebrow at that. I never really called Finral brother, despite the fact we both considered each other brother, so Finral was worried about what happened that I called him brother. 

“What’s up?” 

“You're an omega, right?” Finral deadpanned at that. I winced at the stupidity of that question.

“What gave you that idea?” I ignore the very sarcastic, and deserved, response.

“Can I get your opinion about alpha commands as an omega?” She sighed and opened a portal. Walking through it I was in his hideaway. Sitting in a seat, a cup of tea and a cookie appeared before me. Finral sat across from me putting his elbows on the table.

“Alright. Explain.” 

“I used my alpha command on Luck during the mission.” I closed my eyes winsing as guilt and shame slammed into me. After a moment of nothing I open one of my eyes slightly. Finral just took a sip of his tea. Right, pregnant people can’t drink coffee.

“I’m assuming by the way Luck just went poof and your guilty expression, it did not go well.”

“No. It didn’t. I was just angry for some reason. Luck wanted my jacket, again. Told him no, he didn’t take no, tired again, and I just snapped at him to stop. Luck got really docile all of a sudden. He’s not a docile little omega.”

“But he is.” I raised an eyebrow at Finral’s wording. She puts the cup of tea down and looks at me.

“There are a lot of asshole alpha’s out there. They think that just because they are alpha’s they own the world . You don’t understand the problems of omega’s and women for just existing. You know of them but you don’t understand them. 

When I was younger we had this tutor. The one with fire magic. You know the person that gave me my pyrophobia. She was an alpha and used her alpha command alot on me. During side jobs when we needed money I worked to earn money and some of the employers were alpha’s that liked to use commands. Langris has even used commands on me. 

Even with Sukehiro I have a bad experience with him using alpha commands on me. He apologized a few days later but still not a good memory for me. 

Men and alpha’s have to deal with it too. But it’s far worse on the other side of the coin. Ah, sexism, gotta love it.

The point is you shouldn't have done that. Not without Luck’s permission. I forgiven Sukehiro for using it. I even still have his command still active actually, despite the fact I can break it. But not everyone will forgive nor does everyone have good experience with alpha’s. It’s the reason we are all feral and most likely won't ever be socialized.

I can say I have bad experiences with alpha commands. I have no problems with you and Nero, even Prince Leo, to some extent, using alpha commands on me. I know you won't abuse it. I will take away that trust if you do. I wont ever trust Langris to use commands on me, ever. Sukehiro had that trust, used it in a bad situation, had that trust taken away, and most likely will never use commands on me again even if he has permission again.

I have no clue what Luck’s experience with alpha commands are. It could be bad. Could not be. He could just have been in shock and didn’t know how to react. There are omega’s out there that are born in places where there is little to no alpha interaction. I don’t know. I’m not Luck. 

Let it lie for the night and apologize in the morning. And don’t push Luck to accept it and don’t use commands on Luck again unless they give explicit permission. K?” 

“K. Thanks.” He smiled at that kissing the top of head.

“Always, little brother.”

Dinner was a quiet affair. A creepy quiet affair. As if Henry was going to kennel over a die then come back to life as a ghost kind of creepy. When I hit the bed my rut hit full force. I groaned as this was not what I needed. I just practiced my swings till I fell asleep on the floor.

In the mornin’ I skipped using the connecting door from my room to Luck’s and used the bedroom door instead. An old jacket in my hand that I scented thoroughly, for some reason Luck likes to steal my clothes more when I'm in rut. Not sure if that’s an omega thing or a Luck thing.

Knocking on the door I waited till Luck opened it. When he did, I very badly tried to hide my blush and hurt. Blush because Luck was using my shirt and boxers (why must he go into my room and steal my clothes?). Hurt because Luck flinched when he saw me. 

“Alpha?” I could hear the scared tone in Luck’s voice. That tone does not belong with Luck.

“I wanted to apologize. I shouldn’t have done that without explicit permission. You don’t have to accept it. Don’t expect you to accept it. Here.” I hold out the jacket to Luck.

After a moment I started to retract my hand thinking he wasn’t going to take it. He moved his hand, shocking me with lighting that I could feel my lichtenberg scars ache. Puffing out an air of smoke I took that as I was forgiven.

“You're so silly, Magna!” He didn’t bother getting dressed, just tied the jacket around his waist and pushed past me. 

“Come on! I wanna steal your breakfast.”

I sigh in relief. Luck hasn’t fully forgiven me. That’s fine. I didn’t expect him to. But we're back to normal, that's all that matters.

Noelle

It wasn’t hard to get a job around the Underwater Temple. A turning point for all the Black Bulls. No. Not a turning point. The turning point. 

Vanessa was not human. Therefore does not have a secondary gender. Kahoano was not human. Therefore she does not have a secondary gender. 

Vanessa is an alpha. Just as she is a female. Kahoano is an omega. Just as she is female.

I have been taught my whole life I was a disappointment. A weak omega that couldn't hit a target in front of her. 

Rumored talk of dispaning the Silver Eagles because all the Silva’s were omega’s therefore not fit to lead.

I have been taught my whole life that an omega female should be with an alpha male. An alpha female should be with an omega male. And beta’s should stay with each other unless absolutely necessary.

Talk of marrying all the Silva’s to the other royal family’s because the Silva clan would no longer exist. Omega’s aren’t meant to rule. Talk of making Mimosa changing her name to her mother’s maiden name and making her the head of Silva house. Because she’s an alpha.

I have been taught recently that you can love whoever you want. 

“Do you want to go on a date with me?” Kahoano asked. Her scent of sea water and bubbles tickled my nose. 

I have been taught recently that even if you have no attack’s spells you can be an integral part of the team.

“Don’t worry we're here now.” Vanessa and Finral said their backs turned to me. Looking ahead at Veto.

“Rewind this time! Rewrite this fate!” Vanessa yelled as we were all crucified and died in the Forest of Witches.

“Put your faith in me!” Finral yelled out as Asta jumped into one of Finral’s portals.

Everyone has taught me something. Something new and carefree. Taught me how to love myself and what love actually is. So here I am as a bodyguard for Kahoano’s concert for more money. 

Money for my big brother. Money for my future niece or nephew. Money for my family.

I will pay them back for all the love they have shown me over the years. No matter what .

“Wish me luck?” Kahoano looked back at me while backstage. I kissed her on the cheek.

“There’s no need for Luck. But if you really want him here I can ask?” She laughed at the joke heading up on stage.

Finral

I paced and paced. And paced. And paced. Pacing and pacing. Pace. And pace. Pacing.

“Are you going to come inside or?” Klaus questioned as he pointed to the Golden Dawn door. 

“Can you give this to my brother? I don’t think I could do it. Or should.” I mumbled that part under my breath as I handed the letter to Yuno, who was behind Klaus. 

“He won't kill you if you talk to him.” Was all he said as took the letter.

I gave him a deadpan look as I lowered the illusion on my hands. Showing him the scars Langris has given me over the years.

“I’m still deaf in my right ear.” ‘The ear that Langris carved off my face’ was not said but very heavily implied. 

“We’ll make sure that it gets to Vice Captain Langris. It’s nice seeing you again, Vice Capt. Fin.”

“You saw me yesterday Princess Mimo. And thank you. I don’t want to be here when he reads that letter. I recommend you three not be around either.” I let the illusion go back to hiding the scar on my hands. 

“I know. But after seeing you almost everyday for a half a year it feels weird not to now. I mean even during the war we saw each other almost every other day.”

“True. Anyways thanks for yesterday and for the letter. I’ll be heading out now.” 

Saying goodbye to the three I portal to the kitchen and promptly puke in the sink. 

“つわりなんてクソ食らえだ。

“Wording. Don’t want the brat to pick up Yami’s bad habits. Like you did.”

“Better Sukehiro’s bad habits than mine, Vice Captain Faust.”

“You, good?” The awkwardness was apparent in Nacht’s voice. 

“Fine. Just morning sickness.” It was obvious, to me, the reason that Nacht didn’t want me to be by Yami’s side. Morgen is someone I never met but I knew was engaged to Yami. Died somehow not sure how. All Yami told me was that he was engaged to Morgen and that he died before they could get married. And that Morgen and Nacht were siblings.

I’m not stupid enough to not realize that Nacht didn’t want me in Morgen’s spot. I know Yami still goes to Morgen’s grave every year. Losing someone that you care for is not easy. 

“Okay.” 

“Hey Nacht what’s - Oh, Finral. Good, I wanted to talk to you. We made a care schedule that we wanted you to look over. It’s not detailed so when we inevitably go off it it won't be a big deal.” I took the schedule from Asta as he went to kiss Nacht on the cheek.

Now that was something nobody expected. It happened the day we were partying and celebrating the defeat of Spade.

“Well I'm leaving. Have fun, don’t kill yourselves. Or do, I don’t care.” He spoke with that fake wide smile never leaving.

“Wait! Vice Captain Faust.” Vice Captain Faust predictably waited for Asta. Not that he would for any of us. Asta turned to Grey.

“Grey, can you make flowers?” Grey squeaked. Gauche summoned a mirror and Grey turned it into a bouquet of sunflowers.

“Thanks Grey, Gauche!” Taking the bouquet he turned back to Vice Captain Faust. Maya was giggling as if she knew what was going on, she didn’t. Liebe covered his eyes as if he couldn’t watch this. Gimodelo, Slotos, Plumede, and Walgner were looking on curiously. 

And as if in slow motion Asta got down on one knee. Everyone went silent as if one overly loud breath could break this. He took one sunflower out of the bouquet. Then shoving the rest of the bouquet to Vice Captain Faust, who was as stuned as the rest of us.

“Vice Captain Nacht Faust! Will you do me the honor of marrying me?!” Vice Captain Faust’s face was redder than Vanessa’s cat . 

“Oh my Lucifero! The boy is serious. Oh this is hilarious!” Gimodelo spoke which left all of Vice Captain Faust’s demons and Maya laughing. The rest of the Black Bulls are still frozen. Liebe looks like he’s ready to eat himself alive if it means leaving.

And Vice Captain Faust still hasn’t given an answer.

“I even asked Captain Yami for your hand in marriage! Take this ring as a token of my affection.” The sunflower he took from the bouquet was turned into a ring. Isn’t it common for peasants in the Forsaken Realm to use flower rings over actual rings? Something about it being cheaper.

“I seriously thought he was joking when he asked.” 

Well Yami, apparently he’s not.

Nacht who was frozen up till this point finally moved. Turning his head to look at Yami with the most murderous look on his face I have ever seen on a person. 

“Well Yami, apparently he’s not.” Okay, to be fair I think everyone thought that exact same sentence.

“Answer the boy! He still needs a no!” Gimodelo voiced from the top of Nacht’s head.

“He could say yes.” Maya chirped in. The four demons and fallen angel are still laughing at this whole situation.

“Do you believe, Master will say yes?”

“No! But you could let the boy dream!” She ran off that sentence with mad giggles.

Surprising everyone, Vice Captain Faust actually said yes. Even Vanessa, who is fate itself, was surprised. 

“It looks good. Thanks Asta.” I turned to the now twenty year old young man.

“Vague enough for when things eventually go off the broom we can still follow it. But detailed enough that nothing should go wrong. I mean it will, it’s us. But dreams can’t hurt.”

“Thanks Finral!” The resin flower ring catches the sun as Asta takes the paper back.

“When do you guys plan on doing the wedding?”

“Gordon got it handled. Any question he has he asks. But otherwise he’s running the wedding.”

“Ya. That’s not surprising. Gordon has a book for when Sukehiro and I get married. Despite us not being a couple yet.” Gordon has the wedding handled. And any and all help he needs he’ll get.

“We’re still getting the room situation sorted out. Seeing as both Liebe and Nero sleep with me. Gimodelo, Slotos, Plumede, and Walgner sleep with Nacht. So figuring out sleeping arrangements is the hardest.” Ast huffed.

“Well personally I practically live in Sukehiro’s room but still keep my stuff in my room. Ask Henry to move your rooms to be connected. Have one of your rooms be for Gimodelo, Slotos, Plumede, Walgner, Liebe, and Nero. At least that’s what I do with Maya.”

“We’ll try it.” Nacht slammed his hand over Asta’s mouth and made them leave through the shadows. I snorted and just left the kitchen. 

“Hey Gordon. How’s the wedding planning going?”

“It’s going good! They agreed to a winter wedding. So we still have a good six months before the wedding. A black and white wedding color scheme for winter and the Black Bulls.”

“Sounds interesting. Got any idea on who’s getting what. Since Princess Mimo and Prince Kirsch bankrolled the baby stuff the money could go for the wedding.”

“The average for a wedding is 30,000. So if we use that money we could pay off the wedding.”

“Hopefully Luck and Magna’s or your, Gauche, and Grey’s wedding will be easier.” I grabbed a paper and looked at it.

Nacht and Asta’s wedding teams:

• Food for Reception: Charmy and Kirsch

• Fashion: Vanessa, Noelle, and Grey

• Paperwork and Ceremony: Finral and Nacht

• Entertainment: Kahono and Kaito

• Flowers: Mimosa and Kirsch

• Decor: Gordon

• Transportation: Finral and Voltos

• Rings: Mimosa, Kirsch, and Magna

• Honeymoon: Marx and Julius

• Supplies: Zora, Asta, Noelle, Grey, Gauche, Leo, and Luck

• Rehearsal Dinner: Charmy and Kirsch

“There's going to be so many people.” I moaned, feeling tired and exhausted from thinking of it.

The guest list. 

• Hage village

• Sosshi village

• Klaus of the Golden Dawn

• Nean village

• The Underwater Temple

• The Diamond mages

• The Vermillion family

• Voltos, Sally, and Rades

• Digit of the Purple Orcas

• The Queen of the Heart Kingdom Lolopechka

• Heart kingdom Spirit Guardian Leader Gadjah

“The team list will be the same for all the weddings. So that is taken care of. The guest list for everyone else though is going to need some editing.”

“For Magna and Luck’s wedding will probably be a red, blue, black wedding. With some editing to the guest list.”

“I was thinking of a purple, maron, and blue wedding for my wedding with Gauche and Grey.”

“This looks good. Let me know if you need any help.”

“Of course.”

The guest list for Magna and Luck’s wedding would probably be - 

• Sosshi village

• Klaus and Mimosa

• The Underwater Temple

• Prince Leopold Vermillion (Maybe. Luck and him aren’t that close)

• The Queen of the Heart Kingdom Lolopechka

• Heart kingdom Spirit Guardian Leader Gadjah

Still a lot of people. But less than Asta. Gordon, Gauche, and Grey’s wedding list would probably be -

• Nean village

• The Underwater Temple

• Gordon’s family (Maybe. There relationship is still on the rocks)

Okay. I’m now sad.

“Doing some light training?” I wondered as Yami was training in the indoor training room that I’m pretty sure nobody really knows about.

“Can’t let the brat’s beat me. Got to make sure they’re still twenty years behind me in power.” I hide a snort at that. Letting my back hit the wall next to the door and falling to the ground.

“Please. The only people that want to beat you are Luck and Vice Captain Faust. And for two completely different reasons.”

“Luck doesn't want to beat me, they just want to fight. Nacht, the asshole, wants to murder everyone but Asta and his devils.” He huffed out a breath as he thrusted his sword in a well practiced motion.

“Ture.” I thought for a moment. “I wonder if Vice Captain Faust wants kids. Asta mentioned that he wanted kids but didn't want to give birth. Somethin’ about bodies never being the same after words. But Vice Captain Faust already went through menopause. I would say they could adopt but no one but maybe Nean and Hage would let them adopt. They could get a Gestational carrier. But that all really depends on if Vice Captain Faust even wants kids.

Actually Zora is getting close to the age of menopause. I could recommend sperm donation. That is if he wants to give birth. He might want to adopt. But no one besides Nean and Hage would let a single omega adopt.” Yami turned his back to me as he swung his sword. 

“I don’t care as long as it’s not all at once.” His knees bent as he moved his sword. “I don’t want more than one shitting machine in my base at a time.” I snort at that.

“It’s not your base. You don’t pay rent. Remember. It’s Henry’s house. You all are just freeloaders. And Henry has no problems with ten kids in the house at once. As long as they don’t mess with his meds.” Yami stopped and groaned at the thought of ten kids running around the base. “I highly doubt there are going to be ten kids at once.” I snorted at the thought.

“Ugh. Don’t want to even entertain the thought. How i’ go with Short Stack?” Yami swings his practice sword in a downward motion. I portal the water bottle, that was next to me, near Yami’s head.

“Got no clue. Just went in, gave the letter to Golden Clover Boy and dipped. I was not staying around for that shit show.” Yami snorted at my language, almost choking on the water.

“Careful. Don’t want the brat to pick up my bad habits.” It was my turn to snort.

“Better yours then mine.” He shook his head and walked off the training mat that covered most of the training room.

“Still can’t believe Nacht is getting married of all people. Never thought I lived to see the day.” There was a sad gleam in Yami’s eyes.

“Well, I'm sure Vice Captain Faust never thought he lived to see the day either.” Yami barked out a laugh as he put on his shoes. 

“That’s so fucking true. I remember the day Nacht swore to god himself that he wouldn’t be in a relationship other then fuck buddies. I mean he practically said it once every other week.”

“Should we save a seat for Morgen at the wedding?” Yami froze halfway from getting up. He snorted again and continued getting up.

“Yeah I think Morgen and Nacht would like that.”

“I’ll tell Gordon then.” Yami walked towards me. 

“You should leave it to Gordon after this.” 

“I’m not invalid, Sukehiro. I can do work.” Yami took another step towards me.

“The last time you said that you pat out in the common room.” I rolled my eyes.

“Maybe if you would all stop destroying things we would have less property damage to pay back.” Yami stopped in front of me.

“Maybe if you asked for help every once in a while, which you won’t, you wouldn’t end up with a 105 fever.” I groaned at the reminder, then yelped as Yami put his hands around my thighs and picked me up. Gripping his tank top straps so as to not fall. Not that he would let me.

“Your job is to worry about making sure the baby is fine. Otherwise you will send yourself back to the clinic. You and I both know that.” I just nod my face redder than the string of fate.

“Good. Get some rest. Gordon’s going to do a medical check up on you at the end of the week.” I nod again. This embarrassingly reminds me of the time Yami caught me cuddling in his bed. With a slight peck he put me back down. I just mutely walk away red faced.

“Finral?” Someone called out in front of Yami’s door.

Luck

“ Be a good boy.”

“ Love me.”

“Stop smiling, you good for nothing brat.”

“Be strong for me.”

“Win for me.”

“Be good for me.”

“You only have me.”

The silent scream ripped out of my throat. Aching phantom bruises sting all over my body. A horrendous smile on my face still stretched wide. 

“Quit it!”

“Quit it, Omega.”

The voices of my mother and Magna echo in my head even though I'm no longer sleeping. My nest reak of the two most important alpha’s in my life. Static cloaks my body in a pathetic attempt of a shield.

Standing from my nest I avoid looking at the connected door leading to Magna.” His command is still echoing in my head. Overlapping with my mothers. I should break it. I can break it.

I’ve been trained to not break it.

I shot off a bolt in shock as the knock at my door startled me. Silently cursing myself for getting so distracted, not caring if I was just in a tank top and boxers. The Black Bull’s have seen each other naked plenty of times. Clothing is optional around the base. Opening the door I tried to hold back a flinch when I smelt the scent of rut.

“Alpha?” I silently vex myself at the scared tone. I’m stronger, I shouldn’t be scared of someone so weaker than me.

“I wanted to apologize. I shouldn’t have done that without explicit permission. You don’t have to accept it. Don’t expect you to accept it. Here.” He held out an old jacket to me. It reeked of rut. It reeked of Magna.

“Am I still a part of the Black Bull’s?” Tears running down my face for the first time since my mother’s death. 

The hug felt warm. Smelt of ash, dirt, and metal. When was the last time I was hugged?

“Of course you idiot!”

After a moment Magna started to retract his hand, snapping me out of the memory. I moved my hand, shocking Magna with the lighting that still hasn’t fully dissipated from my nightmare. 

“You're so silly, Magna!” Tying the jacket around my waist as a sign that I haven’t fully forgiven him. I then pushed past Magna. 

“Come on! I wanna steal your breakfast.”

After breakfast I rolled around in Magna’s rut scented jacket. 

“Make a nest for me.”

“My rut is near, hug me.”

“Such a good boy for me.”

Mothers rut was the only time I never had to earn my mother’s love. It was nice. Knowing there’s a time where she loved me no matter what. It’s nice knowing that with Magna too.

“Why did Magna apologize?”

I don’t get it. I’m his omega therefore he can use command on me whenever he wants. Mom did when she was alive. 

He had no need to apologize.

I ignored the voice that spoke. You never thought he would use it.

Shaking my head I look to find Finral. He’s leaving the indoor training room. That’s not right. Finral shouldn’t be training. Captain’s there too. Finral must have gone to see the Captain train. Pity, Finral’s the only one who can see the Captain train.

“Finral?” I spoke when she reached for the doorknob of the Captain’s room.

“Luck?”

“Can I ask a question?” He looked at me questionly.

“You sure you don’t want to ask Vanessa?” I shake my head at that. Some stray bolts of static charge the air.

“Don’t want her hurting Magna.” Big Sis Vanessa is tied with Captain Yami for being the third most important alpha in my life. Finral sighed as if he knew what I meant. He probably did. Despite Magna calling Zora Big Bro his favorite big brother is Finral. 

“Alright. Common, let's head to my room.” Finral moved the two feet distance to his door. 

“What do you wanna ask?” She asked as she sat in the only chair in the room.

“Why did Magna apologize?” I questioned as I plopped down on Finral’s bed. A layer of dust came into the air, sending both of us coughing. 

“What do you - cough - mean?” 

“He apologized for using his alpha command on me. Why?” I responded when I could without coughing. Finral froze at the question. When she unfroze she just sighed.

“Okay. How can I explain this?” Thinking for a moment she pushed back her hair. White hair that turned white from stress during the war. Still with those magic green tips.

“Magna is your alpha?” I nod. 

“Magna made you upset that he used a command on you.” She held up a hand stopping me from speaking. “ I know you think that since you're his omega that shouldn’t matter. But Magna wants you to be happy. He doesn't like it when you're upset. And he made you un happy when he used his command on you. Therefore he apologized.

Sukehiro doesn't use his commands on me. Though by all rights he can. But he knows it makes me uncomfortable so he doesn't. Because he wants me to be comfortable. Does that make sense to you?”

I had this aching feeling Finral wanted to say more. But with the way her words were carefully chosen I didn’t pray. 

“He apologized because it made me upset and he is sad when I'm sad?” Finral nodded. That sentence was weird. Mom was always upset when I was happy and happy when I was upset. But Magna isn’t Mom. Magna is Magna.

“I guess that makes sense for Magna.” Despite Mgana getting upset with me alot he never actively tried to make me unhappy. If anything he went out of his way

“Thank’s Vice Capt!” I jumped up and left Finral’s room.

“I’m not the Vice Captain!” Could be faintly heard as I ran giggling. 

Nero

Two years have passed. I couldn’t help but stare in the mirror of mine, Asta, and Nacht’s room. I still look 17. Alive for 526 years. Another 526 years and I will still look 17. I’ll never stop looking 17. Once every human passes away from old age by the end of the century all that will be left is myself, Vanessa, Charmy, Liebe, Gimodelo, Slotos, Plumede, Walgner, and Maya. 

Then Charmy will pass in another three centuries.

Then Vanessa will pass after three thousand years. 

All that will be left is  myself, Liebe, Gimodelo, Slotos, Plumede, Walgner, and Maya. 

“A beautiful curse, immortality is.” I couldn’t help but mutter under my breath. My hair will never grow. Line’s will never appear under my eyes. I’ll never grow out of the dress my Prince had made. 

Some say they fear death. All I can say to that is how can you fear a blessing.

Puffing into my bird form, a form I have lived in longer than my ‘human’ form despite me no longer being human, I fly down into the dinning room. Finral was sitting in the Captain's lap. 

“Did Morgen have trouble sleeping?” Allen Morgen Roulacase was, one year and five months, sitting on Finral’s lap looking tired. He scared everyone by deciding to come a whole two months early. The little one was subsequently hospitalized, having anemia that went away after seven months. Not yet walking or speaking despite being 17 months. 

Finral was hospitalized as well. Apparently Gordon and Finral knew that there was a possibility that Finral would die giving birth. Finral recovered from the birth around the six month mark. Though it wasn’t helped with the post birth depression that hit Finral like an out of control broom. 

“The little brat just wouldn’t sleep.” Finral frowned at Zora’s words and brushed Morgen’s hair away. The color was an obvious nod to the Sire, though his eyes were all his Mother, that only the members who trained in the Heart Kingdom figured out. 

“Was it your turn to watch Calf last night?” Asta questioned. Fifteen members of the Black Bulls, thirty days in a month (around) meaning every Black Bull watches Morgen two nights every month (excluding Henry). Though considering some members share room’s they get Morgen even more often (Grey, Gordon, and Gauche all share a room, myself, Asta, and all share a room, Luck and Magna started sharing a room around six months ago, and Finral and the Captain sharing a room).

“Yeah. With the two brats I can barely get any sleep.” After Asta and Nacht got married the next one to tie the knot was Grey, Gauche, and Gordon. During the ceremony Zora and Vice Captain Vermillion got so drunk (so was everyone actually) that they got married (after the ceremony) and Kirsch got pregnant. With a son they named Zara Verbena Vermillion-Ideale. Who was born last week with of course baby blue eyes.

“Your own damn fault, dumbass.” Noelle scuffed. Her short chopped hair, reaching just above her shoulders, was covering most of her shell ring on her left ring finger. The feather coat was changed to a scale coat. A lovely gift to her finance that will soon be her wife in two months. 

“Shovet fish fucker.” 

“Are you guys going to finish your food?” Asta asked, patting his three month pregnant belly. The Spade kingdom needed an heir. With Captain Yuno and Vice Captain Vaude both being male alpha’s neither could give birth. Yuno asked Asta if he would be a gestational carrier. Asta obviously said yes and Yuno paid for the surgery and all other medical bills. So now a pregnant Asta is three times as hungry than usual. Because Asta or Yuno, Asta is now pregnant with triplets (that was not planned) . Though Asta will never be the Father of these baby’s he’ll be a good Uncle and Godparent.

“NO! That meal was specifically made for you and the babies! And specifically portions too! You’ll make yourself sick if you eat more!” Charmy shouted. In over protective mama bear mode as she was with Vice Captain Vermillion and Finral. Asta pouted but accepted the answer. 

It’s funny how much they’ve all grown up.

The Magicless fool to the next Wizard King. The disgraced royal to the Sea Goddess. The crazy battle nut to the Cherry Berserker. The street punk to the Pyro Maniac. Former convict to the Man In The Mirror. Creepy guy to Curse Docter. Transformer to Matter Alterer. Gluttonous Wolf to Hybrid Beastess. Drunken witch to The Fate Queen of Witches. Vigilany to the Perfect Counter. Ghost to Mecha. Fallen Noble to the Angel of Death. The foreigner Captain to The Lord Of Destruction. Devil worshiper to Shadow Devil. Myself even becoming the Ancient Seal. 

Yet at the same time we haven't changed a bit.

Five years later, seven years after the war.

“I feel fat.” Asta muttered under his breath. Now twenty eight, pregnant with twins by Nacht, and the Wizard King he sat at the desk ignoring the paperwork and rubbing his six month pregnant stomach. 

“You're not fat. You're pregnant.” Finral aged well for thirty five years of age. Captain Yami and Finral finally got together and then married. They didn’t bother trying for a kid, knowing that this pregnancy might actually kill Finral. Instead the gray hair and purple eyed spatial magic user grew up with no siblings but with cousins. 

“I still feel fat.” Asta poutted. Captain Yami finally stopped being Captain when during Noelle and Kahoano's wedding someone burnt down an entire hot spring resort. So quitting on the spot he left Magna as the new Captain. As a surprise to no one. Though the timing was a surprise to everyone.

With Magna as the Captain of the Black Bull’s Nacht eminently quit. Luck got promoted to Vice Captain. Then their wedding happened, though everyone was too black out drunk to remember what happened. 

Finral, Noelle, Grey, Gordon, Zora, and Vanessa all became works for Asta. Nacht, myself, and Captain Yami all just retired. Chramy, Gauche, and Henry all stayed at the Black Bull’s. Though Henry isn’t surprising considering it’s his house and nest. Finral and Noelle became Asta’s advisers. Grey and Gordon become the Wizard King’s medical team. Zora became his field agent. And Vanessa became the abassider between Clover and Witch’s. Helped by the fact she is their Queen.

“Do you think they're going to look like you or Uncle Nacht?” Little Morgen, now six years old, asked as he colored what was most definitely an important document. 

“Who knows? The triplets all had blonde hair and green eyes but only one of them had my hair type.” The triplets, William, Finral, and Lily Vaude were now five. Both Lily and Finral Vaude are girls with William a boy. 

“And Yami looks nothing like Vanessa. Verbena also looks more like their Uncle’s and Aunt than their parents. It’s a guess Morgen.” Yami Enoteca, three years old, Vanessa’s daughter. Like with all other Witch’s Yami was created by a spell. Named after Captain Yami’s last name because Vanessa liked it better than Sukehiro. 

Zara Verbena Vermillion-Ideala. Vermillion red hair and piercing golden eyes. Now five years old there fire magic, with a specialty in traps, came in early. Morgen, who’s the oldest, has not shown the slightest signs of magic at all. 

“I’m hungry. Let’s stop for lunch.” Asta bemoaned. 

“Charmy should have something cooking by now.” Morgen jumped in joy at that.

“Yeah. Aunt Chramy’s cooking!” Morgen was such a hyperactive kid. A big smile with lots of energy, though tame compared to Asta at that age, Langris commented that Morgen acted a lot like Finral at that age. And isn’t that a sad thought to linger on, how a once outgoing kid turned to a meek young adult, to a ptsd ridden war hero. 

“How’s Nicole?” Nicole Vaude, four years old, has beautiful vermillion hair just like her gestational carrier and Godmother Mimosa Vermillion but the blue eyes of her father. Captain Yuno and Vice Captain Vaude, not knowing what to name her, let Mimosa pick. Naming her after Mimosa’s late mother Nicole Vermillion nee Silva. The youngest of the Vaude siblings now is two. 

“Fine. She’s starting to walk. Talking in half formed sentences now.” Her development, much like Morgen's, is slow going. Though much faster then Morgen’s as Morgen didn’t start talking or walking till three.

“Good.” Reaching the kitchen Nacht was already there with Chrammy cooking. The wrapped wedding ring shone in the kitchen light. Captain Boismortier proposed a few months ago and their wedding will be in winter of next year. With of course Gordon planning everything.

Gordon’s sister Emilla and Gauche’s sister Marie both joined the Black Bull’s. Along with Asta’s brother Nash. Emilla presented as a beta like Gordon. Nash presentes as an alpha like Yuno. And to everyone’s surprise Marie presented as an omega. Which made Gauche even more protective of Marie especially around Nash.

“What’s for lunch Chrammy?” Finral asked, helping Morgen onto the chair next to Nacht.

“When’s Queen Lolo baby shower again?” 

“Too close to your due date.” Finral said instead of answering.

“Are you going instead?” Nacht scuffed.

“Are we going to see Dad, Aunt Lolo, Uncle Gaj, and Aunt Uden, Mom?” Morgen asked Finral.

“In two months, yes.” While Morgan's Dad really isn’t in the picture, Queen Lolopechka, Gadjah, and the other Spirit Guardians spoil the little Calf. Besides he has a good Pop’s in Captain Yami. 

“FOOD!” We happily ate lunch as time ticked and ticked away.

Age of death 3,874. Vanessa Enoteca. A good Queen. An even better mother. Yami Enoteca cries relentlessly at her mothers grave. All the Black Bulls are dead.

Secondary gender is a thing humans evolved out of. Magic is a thing of the past. Demons are a thing of fiction. Immortality being created by science. Far less advanced with non mages as the norm. 

Car horns could be heard down the street. The click clatter of phones. Buildings, called skyscrapers as tall as Clover castle. The Black Bulls will become a distant memory now. The demons and I let the newly crowned queen cry for a kingdom that doesn't exist.