Verdant Skies

There was a pout on Kouha's face as he stormed into the main tent, Kouen glanced up at his youngest brother as the boy flopped onto a nearby chair releasing a loud huff. Sharing a look with Koumei, he looked back at Kouha as the boy let out another huff, "Ha, what's wrong?"

"They're still not letting me see Iris," Kouha grumbled as he crossed his arms with a scowl, "It's been three days already. How much longer are they going to keep her locked away from us?"

Exchanging a knowing glance with Koumei, Kouen mentally sighed at the reminder that Iris had been unconscious for the better part of three days now. What few updates they've been given by both the magicians watching over her and Iris's companions relayed little change from that fact, it worried him greatly as he wondered what could be going on. But much like Kouha, it irritated him that they were not allowed to see her until she awakened. Though unlike his younger brother, Koumei and himself had been told the reason why. With the volatile state of her magic and the fragility of her body because of it, she could die if someone so much as tried to touch her the wrong way.

Leaning forward against the table, Kouen spoke softly, "Ha, I understand how frustrating this must be for you. But you know as well as I do that Iris's situation is far from ordinary. The procedure took a lot out of Iris and she needs time to recover."

Speaking up as he nodded lightly, Koumei added, "The magicians and Iris's friends are just ensuring she makes a full recovery, Ha. It's not about keeping her away from us, but making sure she has the time she needs to recover fully. We all miss her terribly, but we must be patient."

Scowl softening at their words, Kouha released a deep sigh as his arms dropped, "I just...I'm worried about her. When she was carried away, I...she looked weaker than when you took her to the infirmary, Mei. And hearing her scream like that-" He shook his head as a shimmer of tears gathered in his eyes, "I've never heard her scream before."

As if a stone had dropped in his stomach, Kouen's jaw clenched at the reminder though he had only heard the scream from a distance as he'd been running a patrol with Ashe to ensure Lord Habi didn't get the drop on them. The sound still echoed in his ears when he slept despite Phenex's attempts to soothe his dreams. Pushing away the memory, he walked around the table and placed a hand on Kouha's shoulder, "I know, Ha. But Iris has shown herself to be a strong person, the strongest woman any of us have met," Kouha nodded slowly, "If what we've heard is true, she has faced many challenges before and come out alright. This one will be no different."

"She also has her friends looking after her," Koumei chimed in with a slight smile, "Remember what Luna told us? What did we see? Iris's adoptive brother Neville can heal her and with our magicians working alongside him, I've no doubt she'll be up and around soon,"

Wiping at his eyes and sniffing softly as he wiped at a stray tear that escaped, Kouha nodded, "I guess you're right. I just...It's hard not seeing her after all that. Knowing that she's unconscious and not being able to check on her just...It sucks."

Squeezing Kouha's shoulder comfortingly, Kouen reminded him, "When she wakes up, you'll be one of the first ones to see her. You just have to be patient," Kouha sniffed again, "Just have faith in Iris and the people helping her."

"A-alright," Kouha swallowed heavily, "I just need to be patient..."

Which wasn't the easiest thing for any of them, Kouen knew that it would only get harder the longer Iris remained unconscious. They could only do so much to distract themselves. He could only do so much to distract himself.

Waking up came slowly and in waves for Iris, the first time she fully woke up and stayed conscious for longer than a few seconds only lasted for ten minutes. After that though, she managed to stay conscious for longer periods. Staying conscious for longer periods meant it was time to test the limits of her control, they did so carefully to ensure they didn't overwhelm her stabilizing magic. As things exploded at random or twisted despite her attempting to do the simplest spell, she felt a hint of despair despite the ease at which her magic flowed. Gone was any semblance of control she'd once had, she was once more struggling to grasp the simplest of magics.

Iris's body trembled slightly as she exited the tent into the encompassing darkness of the night. As she stepped onto the soft dirt outside, a cool breeze kissed the skin not covered by her thin cloak and she shivered from the feeling. The camp lay silent, save for the distant murmur of a sentry and the occasional flickering torch. Heart pounding in her chest as she moved past the slumbering magicians that slept outside the tent, she made her way toward the back entrance of the camp. Pausing in the shadow of a nearby tree as a pair of sentries made their way past, she crept forward and looked about only to sigh in relief at the sight of both guards lying slumped against the wall.

Nose wrinkling at the heavy scent of alcohol wafting off of them, Iris slipped around them and darted for the nearby forest trying not to push her weakened body too much. As soon as she reached the shadows of a nearby tree, she slowed her pace and looked back at the camp for a long moment before continuing her journey into the forest. It took a long while before she finally made her way into a clearing that she'd found days ago with Kouha. As her bare feet left soft grass and began touching gravel, she mentally grinned and strode towards the rocky center of the clearing.

Moon rising high overhead and bathing the area in silvery light, the orb was swollen as it peered down over on high. Reaching the rocky center as she ignored the feeling of stones digging into her feet, she peered down into a pool of water that lay at the center of it all. The face that stared back was one that she hadn't seen in three long years save for during the rare instances that Lord Habi allowed her at least half of the magic that dwelled within. Verdant green markings curled across her cheeks like someone had taken a paintbrush to them, the marks were thick at the swell of her cheeks before thinning out as they curved beneath her eyes. Trailing down her throat were more of the verdant green marks, they curled and danced along her skin.

As she pulled the cloak from her shoulders and let it fall to the ground, Iris watched as her arms were revealed with an awed look. Twin trails of verdant green curled along her arms, they met and circled her wrists in a way she knew matched her legs and ankles. Raising a hand to touch her face, she saw the person in the pool do the same and smiled despite herself. Eyes drawn to her neck, she swallowed at the scar that marred the skin. Thicker and darker, the scar curled across her neck and she felt a phantom ache rise as her eyes lingered on it.

Closing her eyes for a brief moment as a well of emotions began to rise at the sight, Iris jolted as a voice came from behind her, "Iris, what are you..."

Swinging around as her eyes opened and shock filled her, Iris saw Koumei staring at her with wide eyes. Heart pounding as heat gathered in her cheeks at the fact she was wearing only a shift in front of Koumei, the fact he'd even found her was startling enough as it was. She swallowed heavily and cleared her dry throat, "W-what are you doing out here, Koumei?"

"I saw you leaving camp and wished to know why," Koumei's cheeks were as red as his hair and she saw his eyes darting down before snapping back up to look at her face, "I didn't even know you were awake,"

"I-It's been a few days," Iris grabbed her cloak from where it lay on the ground and pulled it on, "Neville and the others didn't want me to have any visitors just yet...they're scared,"

There was a soft noise as Iris scowled at the thought, she loved her friends greatly, but that didn't make what was going on any easier with their antics. Koumei's voice was soft as she covered herself, "Scared? What could they be scared of?"

Letting out a low sigh, Iris looked at Koumei whose face had lost its blush, "I...don't have control right now. What tests they've run with my magic have led to the discovery that we're back to square one," She scowled softly, "All my work, everything I've done since losing my wand, it's all gone," She sighed heavily, "I'm back at square one when it comes to controlling my magic."

"Oh..." Koumei's expression turned apologetic and Iris loathed it with every fiber of her being, "I-"

"Don't fucking say you're sorry!" Iris hissed before flinching as a nearby boulder exploded and started showering them with pebbles, "Fuck, fuck, fuck!"

Tears burned at the back of her eyes as she pulled the cloak closer, Iris yelped as someone grabbed her and pulled her close with their body taking the brunt of the pebbles. Koumei spoke with his mouth brushing right against her ear "Easy, Iris. Easy, I won't say I'm sorry. I didn't realize that it wasn't something you wished to hear right now," A tear dripped from her eye as Koumei tugged her away from the rocky area, "I don't know what you want to hear...If there is something you need to hear, I...just tell me,"

Tears fell from her eyes in thick drops that she couldn't stop, Iris saw Koumei stare at her in surprise though couldn't be bothered to care right now. Shaking her head, she murmured, "I don't know what I want to hear, Koumei. I just...I don't want to hear anyone feel sorry for me. I'm fucking tired of it," She pulled away from him and moved to lean against a tree as she pressed a hand against her face, "I hate that they're treating me like glass when I'm not. I'm a dragon dammit. My control isn't going to get better if they don't let me do something about it," She trembled as her fist hit the tree, "They keep fucking apologizing like it's their fault when I'm the one who put myself into this position. I'm the one who made it so Lord Jackass wouldn't touch them. I'm the one who's been bound to that damn collar," A sob worked its way out of her throat, "I hate-" A hand cupped her cheek and tugged her to look at Koumei, "I hate the looks of pity they're giving me every time they think I'm not looking. Neville...Luna...Hermione..Ron...Even Ginny, they're all giving me looks of pity and I can't fucking take it anymore."

With gentle hands, Koumei pulled Iris into a hug and she borrowed her face into his chest as tears continued to fall. He spoke in a gentle tone, "I'm here for you, Iris. I'm not pitying you," She shuddered softly as he rubbed her back, "You're stronger than you've given yourself credit for. I know you're frustrated, and I can only imagine the pain you've been through, but that doesn't change how much everyone cares for you," She breathed out slowly as her tears started to ease up, "Sometimes, people don't know how to react, and they may fall back on what they think is the right thing to do."

Iris clenched her fists in his robe as she sniffled, "I just want to be treated normally, Koumei. Like I'm as strong as I used to be...why can't they do that?"

Koumei's voice remained soothing as he said, "Because what happened during the procedure scared everyone, Iris. Even if they don't wish to admit it, it scared them," He smiled softly down at her as she looked up at him, "But I promise that in time things will go back to the way things were, you'll regain control and your friends will go back to normal. If anything, you'll be far stronger than before because of this."

Clinging to Koumei as tears slowly came to a stop and her head rested against his chest, Iris took solace in his presence and words. They felt like a balm against her wounded soul which had been missing. Exhaustion slipped in as her frustration and anger flowed away with the final tears that were shed, she let out a shaky sigh, "Thank you, Koumei. I...I'm sorry if this-"

"Don't apologize," Koumei tightened his grip on her for a brief moment, "You needed to vent and I'm used to being a sounding board," He smiled at her as she glanced up at his face, "It's refreshing to be a sounding board for someone other than my brothers,"

Smiling up at him, Iris murmured, "I'm glad..." A yawn slipped out and she flushed at the amused look on his face, "Don't say a word."

"I wasn't going to though I think we should head back to camp," Koumei pulled away slightly though kept an arm around her, "It's rather late and you are recovering,"

Nodding softly as they began to walk back to camp, Iris found herself leaning into Koumei both due to the chilly wind and how tired she'd become. She spoke in a soft tone, "I...I'm glad you were the one to come after me," Koumei made a noise of interest though she kept her gaze on the moonlit path before them, "A part of me has been worried that you were mad..."

"Mad?" Koumei made a noise of confusion.

Nodding as she glanced at him, Iris saw his confusion-filled eyes glance at her every few moments, "After we shared our stories under the tree, you spent a lot of time avoiding me whenever possible. And brushing me off..." She played with her fingers, "So I was a little worried..."

"Oh.Oh!" Koumei cleared his throat as the arm around her shoulders tightened, "With all the preparations going on, I was very busy. I'm sorry if it made you think I was mad," He offered her an apologetic smile as she looked at him, "I promise that nothing you've done has made me mad, Iris,"

Sighing in relief, Iris smiled at him in return, "I'm glad...I was worried," She caught sight of torches leaving camp and heading this way, "Looks like someone might be aware we left camp."

"I suppose so," Koumei chuckled softly at her grimace, "Let's hurry and calm everyone down,"

Rolling her eyes, Iris picked up her speed a bit with Koumei. They left the forest just as the first soldier arrived looking panicked. Within ten minutes, they were being shepherded into the main tent after someone checked both of them over when someone noticed they'd been injured. Kouha pounced on her the moment she stepped inside and they tumbled to the ground with the boy crying out, "Iris! You're awake."

Wheezing both from hitting the ground and Kouha sitting on her chest, Iris gasped out, "Yeah."

"Get off of her before she passes out, Ha," Kouen scolded the boy.

Whining and pouting at his oldest brother, Kouha got off of Iris and she began pushing herself up only to pause when a hand came into view. Looking up, she saw that it was Kouen extending the hand and took it after a moment of thought. Once on her feet, Kouha wrapped himself around her in a hug and burrowed his face in her chest. Rolling her eyes, she hugged him back as Koumei chuckled, "Ha, you act as if she's been gone for months rather than a week."

"It feels like it," Kouha whined at his elder brother.

"It does feel like it," Iris smiled weakly at Koumei before looking over at Kouen, "So...I suppose an apology is due, huh?"

"Normally," Kouen crossed his arms as he leaned against a table, "However Koumei told me a bit about what occurred," Iris glanced at Koumei wondering what exactly he told Kouen, "And I'm willing to let it slide though please refrain from leaving camp without notifying anyone in the future. As the Goulon Empire has begun sniffing around the border we have set up, it isn't safe for you to do so,"

Spine stiffening at that, Iris's eyes narrowed, "I see," She released Kouha earning a whine, "We knew that the combination potions wouldn't last long against Lord Habi. At least, they wouldn't last nearly as long as they would have against someone without access to the library of skills we've developed since arriving," She began to pace, "The healers still have to be working overtime to ensure his recovery...we likely have at most another week before the asshole can actually move."

"Are you certain?" Kouen asked with a raised eyebrow, "Ginny wasn't able to give us a proper estimate,"

"Because she used my specific combinations rather than hers," Iris smirked as she thought of it, "And I made sure the assholes wouldn't have access to any of the true antidotes. Sure some of the antidotes will work to some effect, but they will not cure anything,"

"So we have a week before their leader can function?" Koumei smiled as he looked at Kouen, "I'll get with Ashe's people tomorrow and see if we can't settle on some decent starting strategies. Iris," She turned to him, "I do not wish to pressure you, but how soon until you'll be able to transform?"

Lips pulling into a smirk, Iris let out a soft laugh, "Control isn't something I actually need for my transformation, I only really need to meditate beforehand to keep my human mind while transformed."

"Good to know," Koumei nodded to himself, "I'll have to speak with you later when I manage to come up with any ideas involving your dragon form,"

Inclining her head, Iris yawned softly, "If there is nothing else though, I think it's time for me to go back to sleep."

"But-" Kouha started to protest.

"I am very tired, Kouha," Iris offered him a tired smile, "And as much as I dislike to admit it, I'm still recovering. Though tomorrow, I will not allow my friends to keep me locked away," She giggled as he let out a cheer, "Kouen," He raised an eyebrow at her, "In a few days, I was hoping we might spar,"

"Of course," Kouen nodded to her, "Goodnight, Iris,"

"Goodnight," Iris waved to them before leaving the tent.

Reclining on his cot as the night wore on, Koumei's was filled with images of the moonlit clearing as he stepped inside. Vivid images plastered across his mind like flower petals on a bath, Iris standing underneath the moon's silvery light in only a thin shift. Verdant green markings danced upon her visible skin underneath the celestial glow, the scars she bore etching a haunting narrative of her struggles. The soft rustling of the wind through the tent's canvas walls and the distant crackling of the campfire added to the contemplative atmosphere. Turmoil filled his normally clear and logic-driven mind, the emotions he'd been struggling to suppress were now surging forth.

Over and over, Koumei's mind replayed the scene as his heart throbbed with the heavy emotions coursing through his veins. Now and again, a smile pulled at his lips as he remembered the playful banter they'd shared and Iris's fiery spirit. The vulnerability he had glimpsed in her eyes resonated deeply within him. There was a realization he was struggling to combat, it was crystal clear for all that he'd fought against it even now. Emotions had always been something he'd been taught were best left untouched, a distraction unfitting for his role as a strategist. But now within his tent, he found himself at a crossroads, torn between his desire to protect Iris and his apprehension about what it meant in this time of war.

Eyes shutting as the scene replayed once more, Koumei allowed the memories to wash over him once more. The sensation of Iris's warm body pressed against his, her gentle presence as she leaned against him, and the forest's scent intermingled with Iris's within his nose. Even an hour after they'd returned to camp and separated, he felt her phantom warmth and it sent tingles throughout his body. The way she'd looked up at him during those moments would be etched within his mind. Those eyes filled with tears seeking assurance and solace, it sent shivers down his spine.

Ethereal pressing against his, Dantalion's arms curled around his neck as she murmured, "Sweet Stargazer, you're finally admitting it to yourself? The emotions within your heart are not something to fear...You know this."

Fingers gently pressing against the bridge of his nose, Koumei contemplated Dantalion's words. Understanding emotions was something he'd done from an academic standpoint, the only times he'd ever dealt with them otherwise was when the mother he shared with Kouen had died or when their cousins had died. But it had been so long ago, he hadn't...he'd forgotten what it felt like. He'd felt nothing for anyone other than his siblings and their household. So this was uncharted territory, it felt far more profound than anything he'd ever felt before. It was visceral, unscripted, and utterly real. Breathing out a bit sharply, he licked his lips, 'I...We are at war, Den..."

Even to his own 'ears', it felt like a weak excuse. Dantalion merely tightened her arms as she comforted him, "War is something you always assist Kouen with, My dearest Star," She nuzzled his cheek, "It's okay to be uncertain," He stiffened as she said the next few words, "Love is not meant to be perfectly understood. It's an exploration of the heart, a journey that defies reason and logic."

'Love?' Koumei's cheeks flushed at the word.

There was a gentle chuckle, the sound ringing through Koumei's mind as a mental image of Iris floated through his mind. It was the image of her using his shoulder as a pillow that night they'd spoken underneath the tree. Heart beating faster at the thought, Koumei covered his face as Dantalion murmured, "Love, Stargazer. An emotion that carries as many flavors as the sky does stars."

As he lay there with Dantalion humming softly in his mind, Koumei played the word over and over as he contemplated just what it meant. Love...Had he fallen in love with Iris like Dantalion believed?

"Taking a break?" Kouen's voice came from behind Iris nearly making her jump.

Pressing a hand to her heart, Iris paused mid-step and turned to see Kouen standing not far away in the shade of a nearby tree. She nodded with a soft laugh, "Yeah-"

Cutting her off with a slight scowl, Kouen stepped towards her, "What happened to your hand?"

Blinking a bit, Iris looked down at her hand which was wrapped up in thick white bandages. Face flushing at the memory of what happened, she looked back at Kouen, "I-uh-well, you see," She rubbed the back of her neck only to wince as the stinging sensation it brought, "My magic fucked up and kind of blew apart the things I was working on."

Gaze softening as he reached her side, Kouen took her wrist in his hand, "Carelessness can be a dangerous companion, Iris. Are you hurt badly?"

Shaking her head, Iris explained, "It's just a few burns and cuts. Nothing that won't heal in a couple of hours," She smiled weakly as her other hand dropped and his eyes followed it, "Even with my magic being in this state, I heal a bit faster than before, and with our potions, I'll be just fine."

Brow furrowing as he grabbed her other hand and examined the bandage coating it as well, Kouen frowned with concern flickering through his eyes, "You should still be more careful, Iris. With your magic in its current state and the coming conflict, we can't afford for you to injure yourself further."

There was a bitter feeling rising in her chest at those words, they mimicked the ones her friends had spoken so often since the collar had come off. Tugging her hands-free of Kouen's grasp, Iris turned from him, "I'll be fine. Like I said, my injuries are minor and I'm pacing myself as best I can," She started walking away from him, "I-"

"Iris-" Kouen started to speak.

"Hey, Iris!" Kouha shouted from the horse paddock, "Want to go riding?"

Nodding as she headed over to the fence, Iris called out, "Sure, I could use a break. Though we'll need to be careful, I fucked up my hands a little."

As Iris approached the paddock with frustration swirling through her mind, she offered Kouha a strained smile as he eyed her in concern. He glanced at her hands as she hopped over the fence and landed beside him. Raising them for him to take a better look, the boy nodded to himself after a moment, "Eh, it should be fine though if it starts to feel too much, you better tell me."

Almost wanting to laugh at the stern look he was giving her, Iris nodded feeling relieved at the fact Kouha wasn't going to treat her like she was glass, "No problem, Kouha. Now shall we pick out our horses?"

Moving through the paddock after Kouha shot her a grin, it took Iris only a few minutes to find the mare she'd taken to riding as of late. Dapple grey with a white blaze streaking across her nose, the mare was spirited with a tendency to kick anyone who didn't offer her a sweet treat upon approach. Pulling the apple she'd taken with her after leaving the tent, she offered it up to the mare who knickered and began to eat the treat. After the apple had been eaten, the mare nuzzled her gently earning a soft smile. Not long after she'd found the mare, a saddle had been procured and she was mounting the horse with some help from Kouha.

Gingerly gripping the reins, Iris followed Kouha out of the paddock towards where a small group of soldiers were set up. Just as they were about to make their way towards the gate, one of Kouen's household members called out from behind them, "Wait up!"

Heads turning, Iris's eyes widened at the sight of Kouen and Seishuu approaching them atop a pair of stallions. Kouha grinned at his elder brother, "Joining us, Entei?"

"With the increased presence of Goulon Empire Scouts, I thought it might be a good idea," Kouen replied as they reached the group, "You don't mind, do you?"

"Nope," Kouha snickered loudly before looking at Iris, "Iris, do you?"

Scowl tugging at her lips as she looked away from Kouen, Iris shook her head, "No, it's perfectly fine."

Despite the exasperation layering her voice, Kouha happily began to engage Kouen in conversation as they left camp. Iris focused on the feeling of wind in her hair and how the mare beneath her moved with fluid grace. Slowly the tension in her shoulders loosened, a grin formed when Kouha shouted over his shoulder, "Race ya to the river! The last one there is a rotten peach!"

Letting out a laugh as she spurred her horse into motion, Iris cried out, "Oh you little-That's cheating!"

Without much care for their companions, they raced towards the river ahead of them. The rhythmic pounding of hooves against the earth drowned out everything else. A surge of adrenaline rushed through her veins as she and Kouha vied for the lead, their horses neck and neck. As the river drew closer, the sound of rushing water grew louder, and Iris could almost taste victory. But just as she was about to grasp it, Kouen's voice sounded from beside her, "Perhaps you'll win next time."

With a smirk on his face, Kouen raced past them and slid to a stop before the riverbank. Reigning in her horse beside his, Iris panted feeling a burst of frustration and exhilaration rush through her. Shooting him an annoyed look, she ignored the grin Kouen gifted her in return as Kouha raced up. The boy grinned brightly as he chirped, "Well done, Brother! You beat us fair and square."

Rolling her eyes, Iris said nothing if only not to ruin Kouha's good news. Instead, she directed her horse to take a much-deserved drink from the river a bit further down, she glanced at Kouha as he settled beside her with a grin. Smile forming, she chuckled, "Shall we go through the forest for a bit? I think the horses would love a chance to munch on some wild apples."

"Ooh, we can grab some of those blueberries from last time too," Kouha nodded lightly before turning in his saddle to call out to Kouen, "We're heading into the forest next, alright?"

"Why not?" Kouen shrugged his shoulders.

As they made their way toward the forest, Iris couldn't deny the thrill of the race still coursing through her veins. The earlier tension with Kouen had momentarily melted away during the exhilarating ride. As her mind had finally calmed, she admitted that she'd overreacted and should probably apologize. After all, Kouen had likely not meant to act like her friends had been as of late. He likely didn't know why she had acted in such a way. Deciding to speak with him later on, she followed Kouha into the cool dappled shade of the forest.

Traveling along the well-worn paths, Iris's shoulders relaxed even further as the scent of wildflowers and earth hit her nose. The sound of leaves rustling in the gentle breeze provided a soothing backdrop. Within this soothing place, she felt a sense of peace. Releasing a contented sigh, she remarked, "Times like this, you can almost forget what we're about to do. The upcoming bloodshed almost seems like it's a figment of the imagination."

Letting out a laugh as they entered a familiar clearing and he jumped down from his horse not far from a familiar grouping of bushes, Kouha grabbed a handful of blueberries, "But then we wouldn't have a chance to kick ass together."

Shaking her head in amusement as she dismounted, Iris led her mare over to an apple tree and smiled as the horse began to nibble at the low-hanging ones, "That will be an interesting thing," She leaned down and grabbed a handful of berries for herself, "It's been awhile since I've actively fought with others."

"Really?" Seishuu gifted her with a curious look.

Nodding lightly, Iris smiled as she popped a berry into her mouth, "Lord Habi hated us fighting with one another. It made us stronger," She waved a hand at her neck, "Before the collar happened, he felt the full extent of just what we could do even if I was weakened from not being able to use my magic properly," A grimace curled across her lips at the reminder that she was once again restarting, "Had things been different and the jackass not gotten the jump on us as he did, we might've solved the problem three years ago. Ashe might've been the Goulon Empire's ruler, but..." She shook her head, "Things happen in strange ways."

"Fate-" One of the soldiers started to comment.

"Is complete bullshit," Iris spat with a scowl as she dropped the berries in her hands and began trying to mount her horse, "If you'll excuse me, I'm going to keep moving forward,"

"Iris-" Kouha protested as he reached out to her.

Ignoring the pain ripping through her hands, Iris managed to get on her horse and guided the somewhat reluctant mare out of the clearing. Irritation flared through her as she coaxed the mare into a trot down the path, she gripped the reigns a bit harder than necessary. Why did people have to keep talking about fate? It was a bullshit concept that only led to horrible things. Head shaking as she struggled to calm down, she let out a gasp as a sharp pain sliced through her cheek, and the mare beneath her reared up with a whiny.

With a sharp tug of the reins, Iris managed to coax the mare into calming down and started raising a hand to check her cheek only to freeze as an unfamiliar voice called out, "Look at this, Boys! One of the traitors finally showed their face and it's the prettiest bitch of them all."

Face paling as dread pooled in her stomach, Iris's eyes found a group of ten Goulon Empire soldiers on horseback making their way out of the brush. Heart pounding in her chest, she realized that they were in a precarious situation. The Goulon soldiers were undoubtedly on the lookout for any stragglers from her group, and they had just stumbled upon her. Swallowing heavily as she tensed her legs, the reigns shifting in the way she'd been taught by Kouha began coaxing the mare to walk backward slowly. A sneer formed on the soldier's faces as another one shouted, "She's about to run!"

As she had injured her hands and with her magic in the condition it was, Iris had little choice. She couldn't even transform into her dragon form without risking major complications. There was a snapping sound behind her, she didn't dare look though inwardly cursed and hoped it was someone who could get word back to everyone. She felt her spine stiffen as Kouen's voice sounded, "Iris, what-"

"Oooh, is that one of the Princes? How cute that the Lord's favorite slave ran away with one of the pretty princes that came to stay?" The soldiers started to laugh.

Cheeks burning as her fingers clenched tightly around the reigns, Iris saw Kouen out of the corner of her eye as the mare backed up another step. His eyes had gone wide though they narrowed as he stared at the Goulon soldiers, a hand dropped to the sword at his waist. She felt a small hint of relief though it vanished as a pair of soldiers raised their bows and aimed at them. The two jeered, "Shall we pierce their hearts?"

"Our lord wants his slave back. The rat can die though," The lead soldier grinned cruelly as Iris's heart squeezed painfully.

At this moment, Iris hated that her magic wouldn't cooperate. She loathed it with every fiber of her being and wished that she'd made more progress if only to prevent this from happening. Jaw clenching, she stopped her mare from withdrawing as Kouen called out, "I think you're mistaken. It's you who will die here."

"Oh and what makes you say that?" The soldiers laughed as more weapons were unsheathed.

"Kouha," Kouen spoke his youngest brother's name coldly.

There was a burst of heat, Iris felt the hair on the back of her neck rise as a shout echoed from behind her seconds before a blade dropped down atop the soldiers. The blade was something she'd seen Kouha wielding before only it was far larger than before. At least the size of her dragon form or half of it, she watched in awe as it came down and blood sprayed outward. As her mare started to rear and she wasn't fast enough to get ahold of the creature, a hand lashed out and grabbed the reins. In a few minutes, Kouen managed to soothe her mare as Kouha cackled loudly while slaughtering the Goulon soldiers.

Breathing hard as she gave the reigns to Kouen, Iris muttered, "T-thank you."

Nodding his head to her, Kouen looked towards where Kouha was finishing off the last soldier, "Kouha!" The boy looked towards them with a manacle grin, "I will leave the soldiers behind with you. Iris, Seishuu, and I will be returning to camp. Alright?"

"Alright!" Kouha nodded his head happily, "I'm going to check around and see if there are any more soldiers,"

Shaking his head with a slight smirk, Kouen waved off his brother as he tied her reins to his horse. Clicking his tongue, he turned their horses around and they began to make their way out of the forest. Seishuu joined them after a long moment and offered Iris a look of concern, "Are you alright, Iris? You have a lot of blood..."

"Almost all of it is from Kouha's little splatter fest," Iris offered him a warm smile, "They did get my cheek with an arrow, but it's fine. I'll have a healer check it out later when they take a look at my hands,"

"Seishuu," Kouen addressed his household member in a soft tone, "I want you to hurry ahead of us and inform Koumei of what happened before doing the same with Ashe. It seems we need to increase patrols,"

"Yes, my king," Seishuu gave Kouen a nod and Iris a small apologetic smile before heading off.

There was an uncomfortable silence settling over them, Iris disliked it immensely even if she knew it was partially her fault. Clearing her throat while looking towards the path ahead of them, she murmured, "I'm sorry for reacting as I did earlier, Kouen. My friends have all been treating me as if I'm glass as of late and it's become frustrating. Between the accidents occurring with my magic and their antics, my mood isn't the best, and I...I took it out on you."

There was a long moment of silence before Kouen replied, he spoke in a soft tone, "I had realized that might be the case though didn't wish to push," She glanced at him and saw his eyes were locked on the path ahead, "I'd planned to speak with you at some point during the ride."

"Ah," Iris felt a flush creep up her neck.

"May I ask why you reacted so strongly when that man brought up fate?" Kouen asked as he glanced at her.

Deep sigh leaving her, Iris nodded as she looked down at her hands and winced at the sight of red starting to stain the bandages, "Even before arriving in this world, I've been forced to deal with that thing...the stupid word that everyone seems to enjoy using," She grimaced softly at the way her fingers stung, "My people...the ones who were able to use magic within my world believed in prophecy. Some believed so strongly that they devoted their entire lives to ensuring a prophecy was upheld," A bitter feeling rose, "Not long before we found ourselves here, I learned that my parents were murdered over one..." She heard a low noise from Kouen though ignored it, "Ending up here was due to being tricked by the very person who murdered my parents, he wanted me to grab the prophecy from a hall of them and have his men deliver it," A tear ran down her cheek as the scars she bore from the incident throbbed, "All the while I believe my godfather was being held captive by him. And upon arriving here, the jackass cried on and on about fate bringing him me. The very beast who would ensure his empire would never fall into ruin,"

"Iris..." Kouen's voice was soft.

Shaking her head as the horses came to a stop, Iris looked at Kouen as she ignored the tears falling from her eyes, "So yes I have a problem with that stupid word and everything it means. Fate? It only leads to ruins for me. So while I am sorry for running off earlier, I am not sorry for"

Hand cupping her cheek, Kouen's eyes were soft as he gazed at her. Iris's voice caught in her throat as his thumb stroked across one of the markings adorning her cheek. Voice warmer than she'd heard it, Kouen murmured, "Do not apologize, Iris, though you need to remember that Fate is something many know to be a double-edged sword. A bringer of joy and suffering," She found her tears slowing, "I will not press the issue as I'm able to see how strongly you are affected by it. I do want you to know that not everything in your life is preordained by fate. You have the power to shape your destiny, and the choices you make can lead to a brighter future."

Blinking as her tears subsided, Iris's chest warmed at his assurances and understanding. It was a moment of vulnerability that she hadn't expected from him. With a shaky smile, she replied, "Thank you, Kouen. I...I'll try to keep your words in mind though it won't be easy."

"I don't expect it to be," Kouen's hand fell from her cheek, "Now we should get back to camp, I need to check in with Koumei and you need to get your injuries seen too,"

Nodding as a slight blush coated her cheeks, Iris murmured, "Yeah, we should."

The interior of Kouen's tent was a study in contrasts. The flickering lantern bathed the canvas walls in a soft, warm light, creating an atmosphere of both comfort and unease. He lay on his bedroll, eyes fixed on the ceiling, a tableau of flickering shadows that mirrored the turmoil within him. The weight of his responsibilities as a leader pressed down on his shoulders, but beneath that burden lay a tangled web of emotions he had been pushing back. The uncharted territory that he'd avoided for years since becoming the first prince and taking on the relentless battles that defined his world.

As of late, however, Iris had emerged as a singular presence within his life that had drawn him to her in ways he'd never experienced. Between her strength, resilience, and unwavering determination, she'd managed to capture his admiration, making it impossible to ignore the emotions that stirred within him. Since becoming the first prince, he'd been a man of strategy and pragmatism. Always choosing to repress his personal feelings in favor of his duties, Iris had started to change that as she'd become a beacon in the darkness, illuminating the corners of his heart that had long been neglected. Startlingly enough, a concept foreign to him had started to take root, Love...He was ill-equipped to navigate its complexities.

Eyes closing as he steeled himself for the coming conversation, Kouen reached out towards Phenex who surged forward with a gentle giggle. Curling herself around him like a pleased cat rather than the bird she embodied, the female Djinn cooed, "Finally realized what I was trying to tell you all along, my dearest King?"

Despite the irritation that surged through him, Kouen chose his words carefully, 'I...admit that something has begun to form, Phenex. I am unsure how to proceed...if I should proceed given what is about to occur.'

Soft laughter greeted him as Phenex curled herself even closer to him, Kouen's nose itched against the brush of her feathers despite the fact they weren't physically present, "My King, you told Iris yourself the solution earlier. Admittedly the words aren't the same," She nosed him, "You are the one in charge...the one who chooses how things happen. And being a metal vessel user, a king who holds more than one Djinn, you hold such power that the world at large bows to you. So what will you do?"

Head slipping against the pillows, Kouen breathed through his nose. The image of Iris from earlier flittered through his mind. Flecks of blood coated her skin, she didn't even flinch when Kouha's sword had come down and instead looked at it with awe in her eyes. It was only when her horse began to react that she began to look fearful and that was due to her hands being unable to grip the reigns properly. And as she'd spoken of fate, the anger and devastation in her eyes had struck a chord in him. It reminded him of when he'd vowed to change the world after his cousins had been taken from them. Breathing in slowly, he muttered, 'My duties...'

"Have never been a problem before even with your vile father forcing concubines down your throat," Phenex reminded him, "Even when forced to pay them attention, you've managed to do your duty. Will allowing yourself to love someone, a woman who holds so much strength that even you admire her, change that fact?"

Lips pulling into a small smile, Kouen shook his head, 'No...no, it would not,' He sat up slowly as his eyes opened and began dousing the lanterns, 'I still worry that this may be a weakness.'

"Love a weakness? Love is a strength," Phenex wrapped her arms around his neck, "It can be a source of motivation to protect and cherish those who hold a special place in your heart. Your responsibilities and your feelings for Iris don't have to be in conflict. They can coexist, and together, they can guide you on the path ahead."

Contemplating Phenex's words as he doused the last lantern and moved to lay back down on his cot, Kouen's mind went to the next thing he'd noticed. As of late, Koumei had looked at Iris in much the same way he had been. Tenderness filling his eyes and gentle smiles always lingering on his lips whenever he spoke with Iris, Koumei did his best to linger within her presence. The realization sent a bolt of mixed feelings through him. On the one hand, he felt a sting of anger and competition at Koumei for holding such feelings. On the other hand, he felt a sense of camaraderie.

Pondering over Phenex's words for a long while, Kouen knew that nothing could be solved within a day. Not even a month, it was far too complex. He sighed while muttering, 'I will consider your words, Phenex. Thank you.'

"Always happy to assist, My sweet king," Phenex began to hum a soothing lullaby that had his body relaxing into the cot within a matter of moments.

Eyes closing fully as he started falling asleep, Kouen's mind filled with flickering images of Iris and the future battles that were going to be waged.