Verdant Skies

There was a chill in the air as she slipped through an old passageway, the thinning moon was slipping away as Iris reached the exit. Taking a short walk through a dimly lit path, she found a covered shed where supplies and a horse was waiting for her. Getting everything set up took little time, the black stallion chosen for her was a sweet thing that didn't mind any extra weight though she preferred the mare she'd been riding as of late. As she looked over the stallion one last time to ensure everything was secured, she noticed that a scroll was sliding out of one of her packs. Despite the urge to open it now, she simply pushed the scroll back into the pack and began her journey to meet up with Kouha.

Shaking her head as a pair of painted nails clicked sharply not far from her face, Iris offered Kouha an apologetic smile even as he drew his hand back with a small frown. He leaned back against the seat he'd taken on a rickety couch within the inn where they'd taken shelter while a storm raged on outside. Lips pulled into an uncharacteristic frown, he remarked, "You aren't normally this absent-minded, Iris. Is something...wrong?"

Sigh leaving her at the concern clear in his eyes, Iris shifted into a more comfortable position by the window, "No, I just-" She looked outside as the distant boom of thunder rippled through the air, "I'm just having a hard time believing that it's already been three weeks since we joined up together," The memories of everything that had happened since then seemed to blur together now, "I'm just wondering how everyone else is doing...if it'll be time to meet up soon."

Frowning as he eyed her for a long moment, Kouha shrugged his shoulders, "There's no telling when it'll happen, Koumei hasn't had one of your friends send along a message nor sent anything along via messenger yet," The frown on his face eased, "It shouldn't be too long now though. With the information we've been sending back and what Ginny has likely found, I don't think we'll have to wait long."

As lightning flashed outside and lit up the room around them, Iris squinted her eyes against the bright spots that popped up in her vision. A low chuckle leaving her, she grinned teasingly, "Someone seems to have gotten more patient," Kouha scoffed at her, "I-"

Both of them jumped as the door slammed open revealing a panting man, Kouha's hand immediately dropped to his sword as Iris's hands inched towards her daggers. The man bowed quickly, "Prince Kouha! Lady Iris," He rose quickly, "A messenger has arrived from Prince Koumei. He says it's urgent."

"Bring him here," Kouha ordered as he released his grip on the sword, "Now,"

Sharing a look with Kouha once the man had left, Iris felt her heartbeat increase as she straightened. The wait was finally over and soon it would be time to reunite with everyone. She muttered, "Well that was...an interesting turn of events."

Grinning wildly, Kouha nodded as he stood, "The calm before the storm, quite literally. Let's see what news Koumei brings."

As the door opened once more to allow in the messenger, Iris felt a bolt of pity for the man though smiled at the sight of Chuu'un. Dripping wet and out of breath, he had been riding for days without stopping to rest. Bowing quickly to Kouha and offering Iris a light nod as he rose, the man delivered his message, "Prince Koumei sends urgent news and didn't wish to send it with a regular messenger, Prince Kouha."

"Is it time for us all to meet up?" Kouha asked as Iris grabbed one of the dry towels that she'd managed to find and offered it to Koumei's household.

Shaking his head, Chuu'un took the towel from Iris with a thankful look, "Not just yet, he wants you to begin making your way to Astoria," Iris frowned a bit at that, "Get your portion of the army into a holding position on the northern side of the city, Lady Ashe is already traveling with her portion towards the southern. Prince Kouen and Prince Koumei will be moving their portions of the army to the western front-"

"The main gate," Iris breathed out as she realized what Koumei's plan was, "Koumei wants us to attack all three of Astoria's gates at once in a united attack. And with us covering all the exits, we won't be leaving any room for a sneak attack,"

"Indeed," Chuu'un smiled lightly as he continued to dry off, "Prince Koumei also wished for me to pass along a message for you, Lady Iris," She looked at him curiously, "Do not use your dragon form until you've met up with Prince Kouen or himself. I don't know the exact reason why, but they'd been speaking with Miss Ginny just before I was giving this message,"

"I see..." Iris wondered if Ginny had uncovered some concerning information, "I'll keep that in mind,"

"We'll stick around here for the night. It won't make any sense to move around with the storm," Kouha decided while shooting a look at Iris, "Chuu'un, take a room and get some rest. You deserve it more than anyone else right about now,"

Giving Kouha a low bow, Chuu'un left them as Iris went to sit back down. She rubbed at her face, "We have a plan now."

"But why aren't they using your dragon form? It doesn't make sense," Kouha scowled as he flopped back onto the couch.

"Ginny likely found out some concerning information, but until we see your brothers, we won't know," Iris leaned back against the wall, "For now, we should get some rest and be ready to move,"

Just the thought of everything coming to a head sent shivers down her spine, Iris was both eager and dreading the coming chaos.

Scattered across the worn wooden table were detailed maps and strategic diagrams of Astoria, the flickering candlelight cast shadows within the dimly lit tent. Rubbing at his face as he pushed away from the table, Koumei turned and went to pour himself another cup of water. His mind was buzzing with possibilities and contingencies, the usual exhilaration that came during moments like this was absent. Between Kouha being on the battlefield and Iris, he felt a creeping sense of anxiety crawling through him though refused to let it overwhelm him as he meticulously went over the details of the upcoming battle.

As he turned back to the desk, Kouen's voice sounded from the doorway, "Our troops are ready to set off at any moment...Mei?"

"Just a moment," Koumei's eyes scanned the maps as his lips pulled into a firm frown, "I...I need to make sure I've got-"

Pausing mid-sentence as a hand settled on his shoulder, Koumei turned to look at his elder brother and saw a soft look there. It was something he'd never actually seen until recently and even then, it had only been directed at Iris. Squeezing his shoulder, Kouen spoke, "Mei, we've done all we can to prepare. You've poured over those maps for hours. The plan is solid, and our troops are more than capable. You need to take a moment for yourself."

"I-I know," Koumei looked back at the maps and strategic diagrams as unease tangled through him, "En...I just worry about what Ginny told us. No matter how many precautions we take, it won't matter if-"

"There are no if's, Mei," Kouen's eyes held that fire he'd always admired, "We promised Iris that she would never have to fear that asshole again and I will stand by that. Now," Kouen squeezed his shoulder, "We can't worry about the unknown. We've prepared for every possible scenario we could anticipate. Ginny is resourceful, and she'll do what she can to help us. We must trust in our preparations and the abilities of our allies, including Iris and Kouha,"

Sighing heavily as his shoulders slumped, Koumei nodded, "Allowing uncertainty to cloud my judgment isn't something I can do...not now, you're right," He set down his cup of water, "We have a duty to fulfill, and our soldiers are counting on us."

"That's the spirit," Kouen dropped his hand with one final squeeze, "Let's clean this up and head out there, we have men to lead after all,"

Despite the words he'd said, Koumei's mind and heart still felt heavy even with Kouen's assurances. He worried about what could await them on the battlefield, but until they began, there was little point in actually thinking about it.

Breaking through the gates had been easier than anyone had truly been counting on, the chaos of everything going on had kept Iris from truly thinking of it until they'd been in the thick of a mass of soldiers that had been lying in wait within the city. The narrow alleyways became a maze slicked with blood as enemy soldiers and her allies clashed. Only the fact she'd spent three years living within this city and making it her job to know these streets that she was saved from the same confusion as the others, the enemy soldiers that tried to corner her like a rabid dog found themselves dead in short order.

The air was thick with the acrid scent of burning buildings and the metallic tang of blood. The clash of steel against steel echoed through the confined spaces, creating a symphony of violence. Moving through the chaos with predatory grace, Iris's twin daggers sliced through the air as she engaged with foes on all fronts. Never stopping for even a moment since entering the city, she bounded her way through the familiar streets feeling only a small pang as buildings went up in flames around her. The enemy soldiers, expecting confusion and disarray, found themselves facing a formidable adversary. Like the shadow she'd been forced to become these past years, she darted between her foes only stopping for a few precious seconds before moving on as blood began to spray.

The narrow passages of Astoria's northern district became a deadly dance floor, and Iris was the lead performer. Each twist and turn, every leap and parry, brought her closer to the heart of the city. The enemy's initial advantage had crumbled in the face of her skill and knowledge of the surroundings. The dragon within her was bathing in the savage revelry that was taking place. As she pressed forward, Iris kept a watchful eye on her allies. The battle's ebb and flow played out in the alleys, and coordination became paramount. Only when she was sure that Kouha and those under him had finally gotten a handle on themselves did she move forward, the knowledge that she had to find Kouen or Koumei urging her deeper into the city.

In a square not far from where she left Kouha and his men behind, Iris found Kouen fighting against a thick swatch of enemy soldiers. For a moment, she stayed back and simply admired the way he moved across the battlefield. As she observed Kouen's masterful movements, there was a certain grace that captivated her. His prowess on the battlefield was undeniable, and the lethal elegance with which he dispatched his foes left a lasting impression. There was a beauty in it, the way he moved even as those who went up against him died soon after. As she peered down at him from her place on top of a nearby building, she felt like a weight had lifted from her shoulders and realized she'd missed him.

Taking a deep breath, Iris shook herself and jumped down as there was no time to think about such things right now. They had a war to work on finishing after all. She heard startled cries before the screams started as her magic began to surge through the crowd. With such an open area, she had more room to work with now. Weaving about, she used her daggers and magic to do damage to the enemies that had quickly begun to surround her. As her back hit another's, she glanced backward before smiling slightly, "Kouen."

"Iris," Kouen chuckled low in his throat, "I thought you would have stayed with Kouha a bit longer,"

"He was doing fine when I left him and I'm pretty sure Ron was headed his way," Iris had seen Ron's familiar head of hair once she'd taken to the roofs and began causing havoc there, "So he'll be just fine," She sent a wave of magical fire outward in a ring around them ensuring only their enemies were harmed, "So...what happened? Ginny wouldn't have said no to me using my dragon form on a whim,"

And the fact Iris hadn't seen the ginger-haired witch was telling, Kouen released a low sigh, "Ginny managed to find out that Lord Habi is planning to use something on your dragon form to recapture it. We aren't sure what, but-"

"We can't take any chances," Iris cut him off with a deep sigh, "I should've fucking realized that might be the case. Alright," She scowled darkly, "No dragon form until we get to that asshole and figure out what the fuck he's managed to do,"

"Iris," Kouen turned and grabbed her shoulder earning a small look of surprise, "I promise you'll get your chance,"

Lips pulling into a small smile, Iris nodded and felt an impulse come over her that she hadn't had before. Before she could stop herself, she leaned upward and pressed a kiss to Kouen's cheek earning a sharp intake of breath, "Thank you, Kouen," She turned away from him quickly as her cheeks flushed, "Now, we have a battle to win and a Jackass to find."

Kouen's fingers squeezed her shoulder briefly before his hand dropped away as he spoke, "You're welcome, Iris,"

Iris glanced back at him and saw a slight smirk forming as warm mirth flickered through his eyes. The brief contact had stirred something inside her, a warmth that contrasted sharply with the cold brutality of the battlefield. The feelings that she hadn't quite been focusing on during her month away were making themselves known once more. Nodding to him as she caught sight of more enemy soldiers approaching, she muttered, "Time to get back to work...joy."

There were startled shouts and cries as Kouen road up with Iris at his side and what men he could spare from their assault on the city, a dark smirk formed as he spotted the castle's gate opening to allow Koumei's forces inside. Urging his horse onward with Iris following after, they reached Koumei's side as their men poured into the castle. Iris let out a low sound, "How in the world...?"

"Ginny reminded us of the hidden door," Koumei answered as he moved his horse to settle beside Iris, "And with her help, we sent a small team inside while the rest of us created a distraction. They opened the gate,"

Lips pulling into a light smile, Iris let out a soft laugh, "Well if there was anyone to do it, it would be Ginny since I wouldn't be able to stop myself from going straight after the jackass," She grinned sheepishly, "But-"

There was a shout from deeper in, it was something Kouen had heard more often than not whenever they invaded the capitals of each country. From the city gate, a man raced out bearing a sword larger than his body wearing dark red almost black armor. There was a sound of disgust from Iris, she wore an expression of disdain and her eyes were colder than ice. To his surprise, she jumped down from her horse and began walking towards the man. Calling out to her, he urged his horse forward for a moment, "Iris-"

"Leave this asshole to me," Iris took out her daggers just as the man spotted her.

"YOU! You fucking bitch!" The man screamed as anger and hatred leaked off of him in a way that Kouen didn't need a magi to tell him black rukh were flooding the air, "This is all your fault-"

Haling his horse as the sound of steel-on-steel sounded, Kouen's eyes widened at the sight of Iris stopping the man's blade with only a single dagger. With a flick of her wrist, the other dagger disappeared from her hand before reappearing. Seconds later, the man's left arm seemed to explode in a shower of blood as several thin lines appeared. Voice softer than he'd ever heard it, Iris flicked her wrist again and this time the man's right leg collapsed as blood sprayed outward, "Be glad that I've better things to do, Seymore. Otherwise, I would very much enjoy making your suffering last longer for every single person you've harmed and tried to harm."

There was a loud cracking sound, Kouen watched in slight awe as Seymore's sword cracked like it was made of glass before shattering. Before the pieces could go flying, they collected into a sphere that began to circle Iris. Seymore's eyes widened, "Y-you can't-"

"But I can," Iris walked towards the man and stopped just before him, "Because your precious master is not mine anymore just as I told you last time we met. And now..." A low laugh left Iris, "Be glad you'll be dead before he is,"

Without another word to the man, Iris took a step back and clicked her fingers which caused the sphere of shrapnel to rain down on the man. There was no scream, Kouen felt a small amount of awe as he watched the scene before him though concern bloomed as Iris walked towards her horse. As she got back onto her horse, he asked her, "Are you-"

"Don't...don't ask me that question," Iris's voice was soft with a small hint of vulnerability, "Just...Let's find the jackass and end this...please,"

That pleading tone only made his concern grow, Kouen reached out and grasped her hand, "Iris-"

"Just know that you're not alone, alright?" Koumei glanced over at him as Iris nodded stiffly, "But you're not wrong, we should join the others. I'm sure Ginny left information that we need to find,"

There was a soft sound from Iris, she urged her horse towards the castle as Kouen dropped his hand. Koumei rose beside him as he murmured, "I'll explain everything later, En."

Despite his wish to interrogate Koumei, Kouen would agree for the moment, "Alright."

There was a thickness to the air, a tension that wouldn't leave even as they managed to get past multiple layers of guards. But Iris's skin prickled with unease, the number of guards was too few even with the amount they were getting rid of and how many had been guarding the gate. The instincts she'd been honing were screaming that something was amiss though she couldn't put a finger on what. Only when they managed to break into the throne room did she realize what was wrong and her stomach dropped, the cold realization of what was going on hit her like a ton of bricks.

"Where the fuck is he?" One of the soldiers within the group they'd brought along grumbled in confusion at the empty room.

"S-shit," Iris's body trembled as she stumbled backward.

"Iris?" Kouen's hand settled on her shoulder.

Unable to help it, Iris flinched violently despite the comfort she felt from the touch. Mentally promising to apologize later, she twisted around and quickly rushed out of the room earning shouts of surprise. Footsteps rushed after her, Kouen quickly caught up with Koumei not far behind prompting her to inform them, "He won't be in the castle itself. Not if Ginny is right and he's planning something," She grimaced deeply, "We have to go-" A thick knot seemed to appear in her throat and she swallowed heavily, "To that place."

"What place?" Koumei asked with concern clear in his tone.

"There is one place that no one is allowed to go...not unless Lord Habi orders them to," Iris led the way down two flights of steps, "Very few come out alive, it's seen as a punishment or a blessing," She breathed out heavily while pushing open a door into the restricted wing, "Me though...I'm one of the few that went in and came out without dying,"

Warm hand grabbing her shoulder, Kouen wrenched Iris back and she found herself turned to face him. There was a deep frown on his face, a mix of concern and determination in his eyes. "What place are you talking about, Iris? What does Lord Habi have there?"

Iris met Kouen's gaze, the weight of her revelation pressing on her shoulders. "It's a place they call the Blood Sanctum," she admitted, her voice tinged with unease. "Habi conducts his twisted rituals there, using the blood of sacrifices to fuel his dark magic. If he's planning something for my dragon form, that's where he'll be."

Jaw clenching as his fingers tightened around her shoulder momentarily, Kouen grunted, "Then that's where we'll go, Iris...lead the way."

Nodding with another harsh swallow, Iris took off running once more feeling glad that this time, she had people with her. The air in the restricted wing grew heavier with every step even with that knowledge. As they stepped into the enclosed courtyard, she caught sight of Ginny leaning heavily against the building with blood leaking from her side. Rushing to her friend, she quickly grabbed Ginny by the shoulders, "Gin-"

"H-hey," Ginny offered her a pained look, "Easy, I-I'm alive. J-just hurt," She glanced over Iris's shoulder and her pained smile dropped, "The jackass is in there. I couldn't stop whatever it was he was doing. Only...only delay-"

"That's fine, Gin," Iris assured her, "We'll take over. Kouen-"

"Kin," Kouen's voice was sharp and his pig-like household approached with a grimace, "See to it that Miss Weasley is brought to a healer, I do not care if it is one of ours or Mister Longbottom. Do it,"

"Yes, My King," Kin approached Iris.

Hesitating for a moment, Iris hugged Ginny carefully before allowing Kin to take the younger woman, "Gin, you better be alive by the end of this or I'll drag you back just for the satisfaction."

There was a weak laugh as Ginny offered her a pained smile, the ginger-haired woman muttered, "Back at you, Ris."

Turning to the not-quite church as fury burned within her, Iris glanced at Kouen as he stepped beside her with Koumei, "Shall we?"

Smirking at him, Iris nodded and used her magic to blow the doors open. She grimaced as the scent of old blood mixed with fresh flooded out like a river before they all stormed inside. This time the altar had human blood coating it, the bodies that used to contain it splayed across the ground like puppets that had their strings cut. Standing at the room's head, Lord Habi grinned brightly with his hand clutching a squirming man as three soldiers stood not far away holding crying children. Face paling at the sight, she bit back a snarl as the man boomed, "Look who has finally returned, my wayward pet and the fucking rats who took her. How wonderful!"

"I am not your pet!" Iris snarled as magic roared beneath her veins and the dragon within snarled to be let out.

Only training and the knowledge that this man was planning something kept her from transforming, Iris's fingers gripped her daggers tightly as she stepped further into the Blood Sanctum. Lord Habi cackled as his eyes gleamed madly in the dim light, "You say that now, but you'll fall underneath me once more soon enough-"

"No, she will not," Kouen stepped beside, "Iris will never be controlled by you again,"

Koumei added coldly, "Your reign of terror ends here, Habi. Release the hostages, and we might consider mercy."

Lord Habi's laughter echoed through the blood-stained chamber. "Mercy? From you? That's amusing! You think you can challenge me in my sanctum?"

Eyes glancing about the room, Iris's fingers tightened around the hilts of her daggers. She saw the man's eyes flickering about the room madly as the bejeweled dagger in his hand began to slice toward the hostage's throat. Realizing that all this talk was only allowing the madman to make a move, she flung a dagger toward Lord Habi and darted forward as fire bloomed at her fingertips. There was a shriek from Lord Habi as her dagger sank into his hand forcing his own to fall free, he let go of his hostage and clutched at his injured hand as fire began to bathe the sanctum.

Momentarily stunned by her quick actions, the soldiers weren't quick enough to defend themselves as Kouen and the men who had been following them into the building charged. Within moments, the hostages were being led out as their captors save for Lord Habi were killed. As Iris began moving towards the man intending to end things permanently, he thrust his hand out and a wave of dark energy exploded outward sending everyone backward. There was a dark chuckle as Iris pushed herself back up, the red markings covering Lord Habi's skin seemed to glow within the dim light as he cried out, "You think that letting those pitiful little things go will force me to stop? And here I thought you had begun to understand, Little Pet," He grinned maddeningly at Iris as more dark energy gathered around his fingers, "After all, the chains that bound were deep enough that even you couldn't break them so easily."

Jolting as she realized he'd been aware of the times she'd tried to break free, Iris swallowed heavily even as her inner dragon screamed to be released. It roared that the time for talk was over and they should just burn the wretch to ash for even speaking in their presence once more. Forcing back the need to transform was a strain, she barely managed it even with her iron will. Forcing herself onto her feet, she growled out, "And yet I stand here freed, Jackass."

"Only for the moment," Lord Habi cooed in that sickeningly sweet tone that reminded her of Umbridge, "But you see, I've had plenty of time to prepare for this. This sanctum is a reservoir of dark magic, and with it, I shall reshape you into the perfect weapon,"

Eyes narrowing as she assessed the situation, Iris disliked the obvious fact that Lord Habi's power was growing with each passing moment. The air crackled with malevolence, and she could feel the pressure building. Inner dragon twisting and thrashing with her, it roared with increasing need to get free if only to rend the asshole before them from existence. Glancing behind her, she saw that Kouen and Koumei were recovering though it would still be another moment before they were on their feet let alone those that remained in the building. With a slight mental snarl, as she clamped down on her dragon form, she called on her magic and darted for Lord Habi once more.

Fire surged about as she ducked and dodged the darkness being tossed about like party favors, Iris's cheek stung as blades made of blood sliced through the air. Lord Habi cackled as he kept her at bay, "Oh such a deadly little thing you are, I wonder if this is how you treated all of those innocents I sent you after," She dodged a spear that threatened to go through her chest and got ever closer only to be forced back, "So quick too."

"Such the fuck up!" Iris screamed as she sent a blasting curse towards the man and forced him back.

There was a chuckle, Lord Habi looked far too pleased as she continued to force him backward. It was only when Iris was standing by the altar that she realized why. Blood pooled at her feet where Lord Habi once stood, she barely had a chance to even try jumping away before a spear slammed into her chest and she was slammed into a nearby wall. Eyes widening as pain seared through her, Iris coughed up something that distinctly tasted of iron as Kouen and Koumei shouted, "Iris!"

Just as Lord Habi released a loud maniacal laugh, a wave of heat sheared through and Iris found herself falling to the ground as the bloody spear dissipated with a faint splash. There was a wave of something cool then warm arms were pulling her against their chest, she blinked as a sweaty hand brushed hair away from her face and frowned a bit at the hazy image of Koumei's face not far from hers, "K-koumei-"

Coughing as more of that iron substance that she had a feeling was blood, Iris mentally grimaced as she noticed flecks of it splatter across Koumei's cheek. He shushed her, "Don't speak, Iris. We-"

There was a shriek and another wave of heat, Iris felt a rolling wave of pain as her injury was rustled about just before darkness flickered across her vision. As it all cleared, she was lying on the ground with Seishuu standing right next to her. There was a roar of agony, she blinked slowly and turned her head to see where it had come from. Eyes widening as she saw Lord Habi fighting a Djinn Equipped Kouen with Koumei backing him up, she felt a faint sense of warmth trickling into her chest and looked down to see Neville crouched over her. Eyes not even on her face, he spoke in a low tone, "Don't even think about moving, Idiotic dragon. That wound...He made sure to avoid anything truly delicate, but you can still die if we're not careful."

"But-" Iris tried to protest.

"My King and Prince Koumei can handle things, Lady Iris," Seishuu assured her, "I promise you that,"

There was a confidence there that made her relax against the ground, Iris sighed heavily though turned her attention back on the fight. As the fighting began edging towards its climax and Lord Habi lost almost every inch of ground, a look entered the lunatic's eyes that chilled her to the bone. Eyes running about the battlefield, she realized with a jolt of shock that all the blood splattered across it was starting to converge toward the man. Breathing in sharply, she shook her head, "T-they need to move. He isn't about to let them win."

"They'll be just fine, Lady Iris," Seishuu assured her.

Shaking her head as Lord Habi's tattoos began to glow even brighter and his body seemed to bulge, Iris began forcing herself up only for Neville to put a firm hand on her shoulder, "Nev-"

"Ris-" Neville started to scold her only to stop.

Whether it was the look in her eye or the tone she'd spoken in, Neville stopped talking and removed his hand. With halting movements as pain jolted through her body, Iris got up and began moving towards the battling trio. Seishuu tried to grab her only to be stopped by Neville as she forced herself to move faster with magic beginning to dart through her body. As she got closer, she held a mental hand out to her inner dragon with a warning to protect Kouen and Koumei...protect everyone who has come to mean so much to them. And with an internal roar, she shifted despite the warnings she'd been given and rushed to cover the two who had come to mean so much to her in such a short time of knowing one another.

All the warning they were given was a deep, bone-chilling snarl before a wave of green-tanged gold fire exploded across Lord Habi's form, the man screamed as he flung himself backward. Koumei's head snapped around and his breath caught as Iris's dragon form met his gaze. Molten gaze scanned him for just a moment before snapping towards Lord Habi with another low snarl, she stepped past with her claws digging into the stone. He murmured, "Iris-"

"What is she doing? She's-" Kouen started to hiss in confusion.

There was another wave of fire, Lord Habi's scream filled the air and Koumei's head snapped towards the sound. Eyes widened as he watched the man's skin burn away only to reappear moments after the flames retreated, he watched some of the blood splattered about the floor covering various wounds and seemingly being absorbed. Realization set in, he spoke feeling shocked, "He's using the blood to heal himself...Iris likely figured out he was planning to do something far worse with it."

There was a low snort from Iris, the dragon-formed witch lashed out with a paw and sent Lord Habi flying. Once the man wasn't in contact with the ground, Koumei could see just how the blood seemed to cling to him like a spider's web. There was a sickening feeling in his gut as he realized just how bad things could have gotten if Iris hadn't stepped in, he frowned heavily as Kouen spoke, "She should have said something. I...She's only going to hurt herself worse."

"Which means we need to step in and hurry this along," Koumei raised his fan, "En, I'll guard your backs. You two take him out,"

Giving Koumei a nod, Kouen took off to join Iris as she kept Lord Habi from having even a moment to think. With Kouen and himself coming back into battle, he doubted the maniac would last much longer. There was a sense of satisfaction as he watched Kouen use Iris's dragon fire as fuel for Astaroth and had no doubt the Djinn was likely loving it. Between the two, he was able to throw more things at Lord Habi and offer them more of an area to play with.

With a flick of Iris's tail, she sent Lord Habi flying into the shattered alter earning a harsh cry. Kouen sent the man flying back towards Iris with a brutal kick and she slammed him into the ground with her tail. Burrowing her claws into his chest, she released a condensed stream of fire that earned a shrieking cry. As Iris pulled back revealing the man's barely breathing form, Koumei realized that he wasn't going to survive much more. Seemingly realizing the same, Iris didn't move to continue her attack and merely rumbled as Kouen stepped forward with a smug look.

"It would seem you were wrong, Habi," Kouen spoke as he reached Iris's side, "You are the loser here,"

There was a wet laugh from the maniac, Iris released a low rumble and her spines shifted about as the man chuckled, "So you think...But I am the one who wins. After all, my little pet will be grieving your loss."

"Wha-" Koumei started to ask just as there was a flash of red.

An odd sound filled the air as heat wrapped around him, Koumei thought it sounded like stones hitting one another. There was a wall of verdant green surrounding him and a thudding sound against his ear, he realized with a slight jolt that Iris had curled herself around him. When she moved, he heard a concerned rumble and a hard nose gently bumped him before moving to do the same to Kouen who stood not far away as her wing shifted. Realizing that she had protected them, he reached out to touch the warm scales in front of him as Kouen muttered, "Well...I wasn't expecting that."

Low snort leaving her throat, Iris extended her head and Koumei watched in fascination as a small glow began gathering in her chest. Neck expanding as small frills he'd never seen extended, Iris's jaw opened before a stream of dark green flames exploded outward. Only when the fire stopped flowing and her head pulled back did she uncurl herself, he blinked in shock at the blackened spot that had once been Lord Habi. There was only an outline left, he heard a soft sigh from Iris before she shifted into a standing position.

Turning his head, Koumei watched as she shifted back and an oddly peaceful expression crossed her face. She spoke with her voice soft, "He's...dead."

"He is," Koumei looked at her in concern, "Iris-"

"I..." Iris shook and he quickly rushed to her side just as she collapsed to the ground, "I...I almost didn't think it would happen,"

"It did," Kouen stepped to Iris's side as Koumei sank to wrap an arm around her shoulders, "You were the one to kill him,"

"I did," Iris's lips pulled into a weak smile and tears were gathering in those emerald green eyes, "It...it doesn't feel real,"

"It won't...not for a little while," Koumei grimaced a bit as he noticed the wound on her chest already bleeding once more, "But it'll set it soon enough. I promise,"

Head dropping to his shoulder, Iris nodded slowly, "I...Thank you."

Frowning as her eyes started to close, Koumei looked at Kouen and his elder brother nodded. Djinn equip dissipating, Kouen spoke, "Iris," She hummed softly and her half-lidded eyes shifted to look at Kouen, "I'm going to heal you, alright?"

"M'kay," Iris nodded slowly.

"Phenex," Kouen called out as he pointed his sword at Iris.

Despite not being the target of Kouen's healing, Koumei felt Phenex's power brush against the scratches and bruises that dotted his skin. It made him sigh as the aches eased though he didn't give into the urge to lay back against the charred floor even if it was strong. As Kouen sheathed his sword once Phenex dissipated, Iris sank into his side more heavily. She muttered, "I don't think I'm going to be able to walk..."

"That's fine," Koumei shared an amused look with Kouen and began gathering Iris into his arms, "I'll carry you,"

Low sound leaving her, Iris merely wrapped her arms around his neck and settled her head there once he got up. Walking beside Kouen, they exited the charred wreckage and were met with concerned soldiers who had left per their orders. Seishuu, Neville, and the others who had tried lingering were assured that everything had gone well before being sent off to inform everyone that Lord Habi was dead. Neville lingered and walked with them as they began heading through the castle, "She is...alright?"

"I healed her," Kouen didn't even seem annoyed by the question, "Just tired,"

"I'm unsurprised," Neville looked amused, "Idiotic dragon,"

"Bratty bear," Came the tired retort.

Jolting as Iris's nose pressed into his neck, Koumei saw Neville smirk a bit though the man didn't comment on it.

Looking out over the city below, Iris leaned against the ornate railing with her head cradled in an open palm. The soft glow of the moon illuminated the aftermath of the chaotic events that had transpired. The atmosphere was heavy with a mixture of relief and tension as the city started to rebuild, both physically and emotionally. Speaking as he stepped up beside her, Koumei's hands cradling two glasses of wine, "Ashe has decided against following Ginny's wishes on holding a celebration... for the moment."

Lips pulling into a small smile, Iris released a soft laugh, "She's being cautious which is good. There are still a lot of people who are loyal to the jackass around," She accepted the glass of wine Koumei offered her, "Unfortunately for Ginny, it means until a majority are rooted out Ashe isn't going to play around," She took a sip of her wine, "I'm a bit surprised you aren't trying to trouble her."

Low chuckle leaving him, Koumei shook his head, "It is good to have allies and Ashe has agreed that if certain factions do not come to terms with her rule within a set amount of years, she'll succeed."

Eyes narrowing on the distant horizon, Iris nodded, "A good idea...Though part of me hopes it won't come to that," She smiled sadly, "With how much she's been through, I hope Ashe will be able to keep her home even if it hasn't been such for a long time," She lifted her head and dropped the hand that had been holding it up, "But talking of such things is heavy..." She turned her head and offered Koumei a soft smile, "I...I missed you while we were apart."

Smile forming, Koumei nodded, "I did as well and I've no doubt Kouen shares the sentiment."

"I do," A low rustle of fabric sounded from behind them and Iris turned to see Kouen stepping onto the balcony.

There was a warmth in Kouen's eyes that had been missing earlier on the battlefield, Iris offered him a soft smile as he joined them on the balcony. Her body felt warm despite the cool night air as Kouen and Koumei stood on either side, Koumei spoke as she took another sip of her wine, "Kouha mentioned that you were increasingly distracted towards the end...Why?"

Face flushing at the reminder, Iris shook her head, "Just wondering how much longer we'd have to run around, I was eager to get things done and see the jackass's head roll," Koumei raised an eyebrow at her, "Though...I am curious, Koumei," She tilted her head, "What was in the scroll?" He frowned at her as uncertainty filled his eyes, "By the time I'd reached Kouha, it had become unreadable thanks to the rain storms I'd gone through."

"Ah, I wasn't expecting that," Koumei rubbed the back of his neck.

"Scroll?" Kouen looked between them curiously.

"As Koumei was the one to set up my supplies, I know he put it in there," Iris crossed her arms, "So...what was in it?"

At her look, Koumei flushed a bit, "Just...a note asking you to take care and come back safe."

Eyeing him curiously, Iris had a feeling based on the flush to Koumei's cheeks that wasn't the full truth. Releasing a chuckle, Kouen set down his glass of wine, "Just a note? No secret plans or strategic insights?"

Flush darkening in a way that told Iris Kouen might be onto something, Koumei tugged at the collar of his kimono as he cleared his throat, "Well, it did contain some tactical suggestions and potential scenarios, but the main point was the note about taking care."

A mischievous smile formed as she set down her wine glass, Iris raised an eyebrow, "Tactical suggestions? Koumei, you worry too much."

Shrugging in an attempt to maintain his composure, Koumei looked away from her, "I was merely trying to ensure everything went smoothly. It's in my nature-"

Arms wrapping around him, Iris hugged Koumei as she kissed his cheek earning a surprised grunt. Despite surprising herself with the move, she was happy to see the way Koumei's eyes lit up and his expression shifted through a myriad of emotions. She spoke softly, "Nature or not, I am very sad that it was lost before I could read it. Thank you anyway."

Before she could even pull away from him, Koumei wrapped an arm around Iris's waist and his head settled against her shoulder, "I-It's no trouble," She felt like her stomach was doing back flips, "Though perhaps next time this happens, I'll have to put it in a waterproof case."

"Might be a good idea," Iris let out a soft laugh.

"Though..." Kouen spoke prompting her to release Koumei and shift to look at him, "That does prompt the question, what are your plans now that Lord Habi is no more?"

Breath catching a bit, Iris realized that any plans she made now were truly things she could do. Shaking her head, she admitted, "I...Kouen, we only beat him yesterday and today is the first time it's sunk in..."

"So..." Koumei looked at her with concern clear on his face.

Taking a deep breath as emotions curled through her, Iris admitted, "I...I wasn't lying about wanting to learn more about this world. See what it holds, I want to find a place to call home now that we...now that I'm free," She looked at Kouen, "If...if you're willing to let me...let my friends and I come with you, I'd like to see Kou. Stay there even if it's only for a little while."

A warm smile forming, Kouen nodded as he held out a hand to her, "Of course, I was merely waiting for you to ask."

A soft snort leaving her, Iris took his hand, "You are a-"

Yelping as Kouen pulled her into a hug, Iris pushed against his chest for only a moment before sinking against him. She laid her head against his chest as he murmured, "Even if you choose to leave, you'll always be welcome back, Iris. I promise that I'll never restrict your freedom..."

Feeling as if there were unsaid words, Iris looked up at his face though Kouen wasn't looking at her. He was looking towards Koumei and his expression had turned soft with a contemplative look that made her wonder what was going through his mind. Rather than speak on it, she merely smiled while saying, "After what happened, I would hope not."