Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

A beautiful woman with red hair and amber eyes took ahold of a small medallion, smiling at it before placing it on a small pouch. Walking out of her manor, she was accompanied by two soldiers, the parasol she was holding protecting her from the snow. Soon, she reached the port, going up the ramp of the vessel. A crewman bowed to her. 

"Your Highness."

The woman bowed in return, her smile as bright as ever. 

There was a time, not too long ago, when we lived in happiness. Our people adored us, and we returned it. 

The vessel came to a stop. After a successful anchor, the woman got out of her cabin. The working crew bowed to her as she held her head high, parasol over her head while walking down with elegance. Her soldiers accompanied her once again.

"Queen Kagura, this way."

"Mhm, thank you."

The year was 931. 

She made it into the palace, the participants bowing to her with respect. 

And my son, Zeke, was the king of Wadatsumi. 

As she and her soldiers entered the palace, they were greeted by an astonishing sight. The dancers were performing for the guests, the traditional music of Wadatsumi echoing all around the main hall. Kagura closed her eyes for a brief moment, smiling. This moment brought her to a simpler time, when she used to indulge in the festivities alongside her late mother. Opening her eyes, she moved on further, taking a seat in a throne that once was hers. Among the crowd, she could see the face of her son. 

"Hello dear!"

Zeke was watching the performance with his wife and children when Kagura called out to him. He turned, giving her a formal, yet cheerful greeting. 

Right at the year's end, we were celebrating the three hundredth anniversary of our family’s rule. His wife and my daughter-in-law, Celis, was there, beside my beloved son. The children were there too, their eyes wide with excitement as they watched the dance.

Zeke had an arm wrapped around Celis' waist. Celis looked down, smiling as she ruffled the hair of a young girl with blonde hair. The girl's rose-gold eyes gleamed as they met her mother's. Her gaze shifted to another child, a boy with dark hair and crimson eyes. She rested a gentle hand on his shoulder, and after a moment of stillness, his lips curled into a smile. Satisfied, Celis looked around the hall. Her light blue eyes sparkled with calm...

Until they locked onto the buffet table.

Beneath the table, a young girl with dark hair tied in a ponytail peeked out. She lifted the tablecloth slightly, eyes darting around like a little thief plotting her heist. Just as she reached out for a sakura mochi, approaching guests made her retreat with a quiet gasp. She ducked under again, pouting as laughter and chewing reached her ears.

Moments later, a red-haired boy trotted over, welcomed cheerfully by the guests. With a broad grin, he bit into a mochi, then made exaggerated faces that drew laughter. As the guests moved on, he scanned the area, lifted the tablecloth with his foot, and sneakily rolled a mochi underneath. The hidden girl grabbed it with wide eyes. Their gazes met under the cloth—hers surprised, his playful.

"Thank you," she whispered.

He winked. But then—

"Ahem."

The boy turned to see Celis, arms crossed but eyes smiling. He gave a mischievous grin. Shaking her head fondly, Celis grabbed another sakura mochi, bent down, and passed it under the table.

“Give this to Azami,” she said.

The mochi vanished in a flash. Celis chuckled. Taking the boy’s hand, she led him back into the family circle.

They were very bright that night. But no one shone brighter than my oldest grandson, Logi. 

Once the dancers finished their number, the children turned and ran up to Kagura, hugging her. 

"Grandma!"

All three were elated to see me. I loved them with all of my heart. However, Logi was the apple of my eye. He reminded me so much of my late husband. 

The sister and the brother dispersed, leaving Logi behind. The young redhead turned to her with a grin, extending his arms. 

"Look what I got!"

"A rice ball? Logi, did you steal from the kitchen again?"

He giggled sheepishly, getting red in the face from embarrassment. 

"Logi, you rascal."

Both laughed, as Kagura took the rice ball in her hands. She used her free hand to pull at his cheek playfully, enjoying the small rice ball. 

That party was going to be the last one for me, for I would settle down to spend my days in Envylia. He begged me to stay with them in Wadatsumi - so I had a special gift made for him...

Kagura took out a medallion from the pouch, making the boy gasp in surprise. At that moment, the girl with dark hair tied to a ponytail from earlier, approached the throne slowly, staying behind the chair to watch while munching on a rice ball. 

...to make the separation easier for both of us.

"For me?"

The girl behind the throne glanced at the medallion, her eyes wide with wonder. Further away, another girl with flowing hair caught sight of the dark-haired girl behind the throne, sneaking up to her and covering her mouth so she didn't make a sound. 

"Amane, you cannot be here."

She thrashed around, wanting to stay behind. This went unnoticed by the boy and his grandmother. 

"Yes. Your grandpa used to have an emblem like this one. It is a symbol of pride for the captain of the Blue Flame Guard of Envylia."

"Grandma, that's amazing!"

"Look, it comes with a ribbon. Read what it says."

The boy took the ribbon from her hands, seeing words written on its surface.

"Together in Envylia. Really?"

Kagura smiled brightly.

"Next time you come, we will watch the national parade."

She put a hand close to her mouth, whispering her words and giving a wink to her grandson.

"It's a secret between us."

The boy's eyes gleamed with joy.

"Oh, grandma!"

He embraced her tightly, the woman laughing and returning the hug gleefully. 

But we would never be together in Envylia. For a dark shadow had descended upon the house of the Suho. His name was Judius. We thought he had good intentions, as he was the ambassador of Greed Dike. But he was a fraud, power-hungry and dangerous. Because of him, my country and Greed Dike had a rocky relationship. 

Passing through the entrance, the man left fear on his wake, the guests gasping and backing away. His mask hid his face, but his intentions were clear. Logi's siblings had gone to their mother, gripping her arms. The girls from before had come back, standing hidden behind the former queen's throne to watch. Soon, he reached the king, who left the family to face the man. 

"How dare you return to the palace?"

"But I am your ally."

"Ally? You are a traitor. You are not welcome here!"

"You think you can banish me? Zeke Suho, you have made yourself a big enemy. You will face the wrath of Greed Dike!"

Logi, Kagura and the girls gasped, the latter two stepping back. 

"Mark my words. Tomorrow, you and your family will perish."

Zeke looked back at his family, seeing his wife and children were terrified. Logi gripped the medallion, eyebrows twitching. Suddenly, he left Kagura's side. She held out her arm in worry. 

"Logi!"

The boy rushed towards his father, standing in front of him. His blue eyes were fixed at the masked man.

"We're not afraid of you!"

His voice cracked slightly, his small hands shaking. But he refused to let this man speak ill of him and his family. Face obscured, the man stared down at the boy. 

"If you harm us, the continent of Babel will turn against you!"

Worried, Zeke grabbed the boy, putting a hand on his son's chest to keep him in place. 

"Logi!"

The scowl Judius had turned to a malicious smile.

"Oh, little fledgling..."

He stepped closer, Zeke's grip on Logi tightening. 

"I will make sure you are the last one to be killed."

Then Judius unsheathed his katana, raising it high in the air. 

"I will not rest until I see the end of the Suho line... FOREVER!"

Guards rushed to the scene, surrounding Judius, their weapons aimed at him. The man chuckled maliciously, releasing some kind of dark energy and blasting them away. The guests gasped and screamed. Judius had vanished amidst the commotion. The main hall was in chaos. 

...

In a dark, dimly lit cave, stood Judius. He was not alone; some monstrous creatures were with him as well. His lips were curled to a small, malicious smile. 

"The time will come, my Dismortants. If the opposition fails, you will step in, and seal the fate of the king and his family once and for all."

Consumed by his hatred for Zeke and his family, Judius took advantage of the corruption that sleeps in our land, creating mutant creatures that were immortal. That, was the power he sought to destroy them. And so, the uprising began...

...

From that moment on, the spark of unhappiness in our country was fanned into a flame that would soon destroy our lives forever.

Rebels were hitting the locked gates, trying to open them. Then, with enough force, they managed to break the lock. Inside the palace, Logi was asleep, until the thunderous crack of the gates breaking jolted him upright.

“What... what’s going on?”

He rushed to the window, and his eyes widened in terror. The palace was under siege. Suddenly, the door slid open.

“Dad!”

Zeke appeared, sword on his belt, voice urgent.

“No time, Logi. We need to leave.”

“Where’s Dias and Agatha?”

“They’re with your mother. Come!”

Zeke threw a cloak over his son’s shoulders, grabbed his hand, and rushed out of the bedroom. Hurrying down the corridor, they joined with Celis, Dias and Agatha, the former shielding them behind her. Kagura stood beside them, eyes sharp but face pale. Upon seeing her husband and son, Celis let out a sigh of relief.

"Dear!"

Kagura put her hands together, thankful to see the family together, even if brief.

"Thank the gods."

Reunited, the family shared a fleeting breath. But then chaos struck. Outside the gates, the royal military clashed with the rebels, desperate to hold the line. Metal clashed, flames licked at the stone walls. Agatha clung to her mother. Dias held onto Zeke's arm. Even Logi, brave as he was, flinched at every crash. As danger grew ever near, Zeke quickly turned to lead them to an escape route.

"Hurry, follow my lead!"

"Father!"

"Agatha, don't let go of Celis! Dias, you too!"

Logi was with his grandmother, checking his clothes for something. 

"My emblem!"

He let go of Kagura's hand, running back to his bedroom. 

"Logi! Come back!"

She chased after the young boy, holding her arm out, leaving the rest of the family.

"Come back!"

Logi managed to get to his room, checking everywhere for his prized possession. When Kagura got in, she quickly slid the door closed behind her.

"Logi!"

Sliding his hand under the futon, his fingers brushed against something cool and smooth.

His emblem.

He clutched it tightly, relief flooding him. Just as he slipped the emblem into his pocket, a distant cry rang out, followed by screaming and the clatter of steel.

"Da-"

Kagura rushed to Logi, cutting him off by placing a trembling hand over his mouth.

"Shhh...!"

She held him tight, her eyes glued to the door. Another cry was heard, then a loud thud. A lone tear rolled down Kagura's cheek, a shaky gasp escaping her. 

"Zeke..."

Logi looked up at his grandma, his eyes glassy as he whispered.

"Grandma...!"

"We have to hide. Quick!"

Then, a tatami mat was opened from below the floor, revealing the face of the dark-haired girl with a ponytail— the same one Logi had shared a mochi with at the party. She gasped upon seeing the royals trying to hide. She got out swiftly, grabbing the former queen's garments. 

"Come this way! To the servant quarters!"

Both turned, following her advice without a second thought. Kagura put her grandson in front of her, ushering him to go first. The emblem tucked away in his pocket fell out with a soft thud. Loud footsteps were heard coming to their direction.

"Hurry!"

The girl was about to put down the tatami mat, but the young prince peeked his head out. 

"My emblem!"

"Go, go!"

She pushed him, finally putting the mat down, placing the futon on top of it. The door slid forcefully open, angry rebels storming in. One of them took notice of her, rushing to her in anger. 

"Where are they, girl?"

With a glare, she retaliated by throwing a zabuton at them. In response, the man hit her with the back of the blade, knocking her unconscious. Her hand lightly grazed the emblem. Meanwhile, the remaining royals had escaped successfully. Their home was in flames. 

"Grandma!"

"Keep up with me, dear!"

Holding his hand tightly, they ran across the castle town. Unbeknownst to them, Judius was nearby, watching them flee. Once they were on his range, he caught them off-guard, grabbing the boy by his leg.

"Ah!"

"Judius!"

She grabbed her grandson by his arm, pulling him towards her. Though Judius was relentless.

"Let me go!"

The poor boy cried, moving frantically to free himself. Judius watched him suffer with a sinister sneer, raising his katana with the intent to kill.

"You’ll never escape me, child! The legacy of Suho ends with YOU!"

Kagura had enough. She lost much of her family in one night, she wasn't going to lose her only grandson. Her hands started glowing red, feathers surrounding her figure. However, before she could act, someone rushed to the scene, slashing the evil man on his back.

"Gah!"

For a brief moment, he let go of Logi. The boy took this opportunity to rush to his grandma. The person revealed themselves, looking over at the two.

"Jubei!"

"Lady Kagura! Take the young prince and flee! I'll hold him off!"

"All right! Logi, stay with me!"

He nodded, watching the man get up slowly, seeing him seethe with rage. They left him with the woman, who blocked his way so Judius couldn't get to them. They ran to the port, seeing many boats leaving. The vessels were overrun by citizens who wanted to escape the country. Seeing some boats hadn't left yet, the duo raced to get a spot. 

"Logi, hurry!"

Some people on the boat pulled Kagura in. When she turned, she saw him trying to get in as well. 

"Grandma!"

"Here, take my hand. Hold on to my hand!"

He held onto her hand with all of his strength, desperate and frightened. 

"Don't let go!"

She tried to pull him in with all of her might. But suddenly, a large crowd of people rushed to the boats, shoving him out of the way by accident. His small hand slipped from Kagura's grasp. 

"AH...!"

The little boy shrieked, tumbling back into the crowd and hitting his head. His eyes fluttered shut as he lost consciousness.

"LOGI!"

She tried to jump off the boat, but the other people held her back. 

"No! Let go of me! LOGI!!!"

She lost sight of him in the sea of confused and terrified citizens, shedding tears at the sight.

So many lives were destroyed that night. What had always been was now gone forever. And my Logi, my beloved grandchild… I never saw him again.

Chapter Text

- 10 years later -

The citizens of Wadatsumi were going about their daily lives, gloomy and depressed. Ever since the rebellion and the fall of the Suho family, the country was put under the rule of Greed Dike, courtesy of Northern Pride. Their lives were worse than ever. 

"Hey, did you hear?"

Though something kept the people going; the hope that things would soon change. And a little something else.

"There's this rumor..."

A few townsfolk were gossiping about the latest rumor that had spread like wildfire around the castle town, though they would talk about it in whispers. 

"Someone from the Suho family may still be alive."

"Who?"

"They say the boy survived the execution. The eldest one."

"I think his name was..."

"Logi. Logi Suho."

"If he is alive, maybe Greed Dike can leave us alone."

"But if he's found, they might imprison him. Or worse, kill him."

Suddenly the people gasped, their chatter dying abruptly when a patrol of soldiers passed by. Steel boots clacked on stone, and eyes full of cruelty scanned the area.

"We cannot talk about this here."

"You're right. We'll be in jail if we speak about it."

They went on with their business, dropping the subject. As the Greed Dike soldiers patrolled the marketplace, the citizens were tense, including two youthful girls that were looking around for food. One of them, with flowing reddish brown hair, followed their every movement. Soon, the soldiers were out of view. The other girl, with her dark hair tied to a ponytail, sighed in relief.

"They didn't suspect anything, did they?"

The other girl turned, her eyes on her friend.

"If they did, we would be in chains. Come on, Amane."

Both girls continued their search for any food they could afford. Amane's eyes went wide at the fresh fruits and vegetables. 

"Azami, look! We can have a good meal today! Oh, there's plenty of rice as well!"

With a sigh, Azami turned to Amane.

"Amane, we cannot buy that."

"Why not?"

"You know why. Come on, let's look somewhere else."

Amane pouted, glancing at the food stand before following Azami. They moved to a different area of the market. Beside them, some women were discussing the rumor from before. Amane turned her head slightly, overhearing their conversation. 

"I heard the former lady of Suho will pay a large sum to someone that will bring the prince back."

"What is the reward?"

"10 million zeni."

"That's a lot!"

Amane's eyes widened, and almost gasped, but quickly covered her mouth. If the ladies caught her eavesdropping, she knew she would never forget the shame.

"My husband could buy a house with that kind of money."

"But it has been 10 years. Is the boy really alive?"

"I don't know. I only know what the rumor says."

Amane glanced around, panicking as she saw Azami further away from her. She rushed to join her. 

"Azami, did you hear them?"

"I know about the former queen's announcement. Captain Ugachi and captain Tanosuke are investigating the rumor."

Amane's eyes widened in admiration at Azami's statement. 

"Wow, you learned it before me!"

"You would have known too if you listened to captain Ugachi."

Amane frowned for a moment, but then a thought crossed her mind as she recalled the conversation from earlier.

"Do you think he is alive?"

"I don't think so."

"You are a pessimist."

"I am not being a pessimist. I look at the facts."

"He has to be!"

"Because you saved him?"


"I saw him leave, Azami! I know I blacked out after, but I-"

She paused, seeing Azami stopping in her tracks. She turned, her voice quiet but serious.

"Amane, I know. I too want to believe. But if the prince isn't alive, you should accept that."

"Azami..."

"Stop dwindling around. The Blade Fox are waiting for us."

"Yes..."

Her eyes were on the ground, her lips quivering. She shook her head, following Azami in search for something the Blade Fox could eat.

...

Far away from the castle town, snow fell gently at a quiet, small village. The roof of the local shrine was covered in snow. Within its hall, a fire crackled weakly. The orphans, some only toddlers and others in their early teens, sat in neat lines around wooden bowls filled with thin soup and wild greens. Their heads were bowed in quiet resignation, their eyes flickering occasionally toward the far end of the room. The head of the shrine maidens stood with her sisters, handing over bales of rice to the rebels. The lead rebel and his fellow comrades, marked with the sigil of Shiba Senko, towered over the shrine maidens. The leader looked unimpressed by their offerings, yet greed flickered in his eyes as he accepted each bale without gratitude, ordering his men to load them into the cart. The shrine maidens hesitated between handovers, each one causing more of the children to frown. One of the children, a little boy no older than five, held a hand to his abdomen, his stomach twisting in pain.  

"I'm hungry..."

The whisper made the rest of the orphans tear up slightly, knowing they had little for this month. As the shrine maidens handed over the last bale of rice, the little boy began to sniffle. Then he started to cry. The other children tensed. One girl covered her ears. Another orphan, a young man amongst the children and teens, put down the bowl of soup, his fingers gripping the chopsticks. The lead shrine maiden’s eyes widened in alarm, and she rushed to the boy’s side, kneeling and trying to hush him.

But it was too late. The rebel’s gaze snapped to the child. Everyone froze.

"Bring the boy here."

The rebel's voice was low, but threatening. The shrine maiden’s face drained of color. 

“Please… he’s just scared-”

“Now.”

The boy cried harder, clinging to her sleeves. The rebel took a step forward. But then...

The young man stood up, blocking the way. 

"Back off."

His voice cut through the stillness, his expression stern. In an instant, all eyes were on him. The little boy already rushed behind his legs, hiding in his shadow. The rebel stopped, scanning the young man from head to toe. He had a strong build, his frame tall and imposing, seemingly well-fed for the times. And… a sheath tucked into his robes.

The rebel narrowed his eyes, and the young man did the same. The air in the shrine thickened. Neither moved. After a long silence, the rebel sneered.

“Maybe we could use someone like you.”

He turned toward the lead shrine maiden.

“This one will serve as a bodyguard for the lord of Shiba Senko. Make sure he’s at the capital this sundown.”

The shrine maidens exchanged shocked glances.

“But-”

“I wasn’t asking.”

The young man's brows furrowed.

"I refuse."

The rebel stepped closer.

“You don’t have a choice. Let’s see how tough you act once you're employed. Don't disappoint your new master.”

The young man clenched his fists. The rebel turned back to the women.

“He’ll be expected soon.”

And just like that, the lead rebel and his men left with the bales of rice. The shrine doors shut behind them, and silence returned, save for the boy’s quiet sobs. The lead shrine maiden approached the young man, her hands folded tightly before her.

“Logi… I’m sorry. We cannot refuse this request. You know what they’ll do if we defy them.”

Logi gave her a long look, then nodded.

“I understand.”

Then Logi knelt down, meeting the child’s eyes. His expression softened as he ruffled the boy’s hair.

“Hey. You’re safe now.”

The boy whimpered.

“But I got you in trouble…”

Logi smiled faintly, though the corners of his mouth twitched.

“…It's okay. I'd rather it be me than you. So dry those tears.”

Standing up, he turned to the shrine maidens.

"I will go."

...

Hours later, the children gathered at the shrine entrance as Logi readied his things. They clung to his sleeves, waving with tears in their eyes. 

"Will you come back someday?"

Logi, wearing a hanten and a hakama, smiled sadly as he patted the boy's head. 

"...I will."

The lead shrine maiden and the rest of the sisters, now wearing winter kimonos and kakumakis, stood around him and the orphans. The lead shrine maiden bowed her head.

"Logi, forgive us. We will pray for your safety."

"I forgive you. I am grateful for everything you have done for me."

The woman smiled, holding a parasol over her head. 

"I hope you never lose that spirit. May the gods be with you."

"Thank you."

Stepping out of the holy grounds, Logi turned back, looking at the place that housed him for years one last time. He found it hard to move. Though it never felt like home, the shrine sheltered him until now. And now, he was forced to go into the lion's den. Like the rebel said, Logi had no choice. But he forced a smile, raising his hand hesitantly.

"Bye everybody."

He gave one final wave to everyone before stepping into the snowy forest. Logi had walked through the forest for quite some time, stopping by a tree.

"I still have a long way to go. Working as a bodyguard for the Shiba Senko leader, huh?"

He pondered over the thought for a moment, clenching his teeth. 

"And? I will live like this my whole life, undermined by the rebels?"

His blue eyes were in the path ahead of him. 

"But if I don't go to that man, I can..."

He put his hand inside the inner pocket of the hanten, taking out a ribbon. His blue eyes softened.

"Whoever gave this to me must have loved me..."

He chuckled to himself.

"This is crazy! Me, go to Envylia?"

He held the ribbon in front of his face, the satin letters glowing slightly. 

"Gods, send me a sign. Anything will do."

A sigh left him, closing his eyes for a moment. 

"Thief!"

His eyes opened instantly, looking around. For a split second, he saw someone run toward his direction. He put his foot out, causing the person to land head-first onto the ground. The bale he was holding fell to the side. Logi's eyes went to it, taking the heavy bale.

"That's mine!"

The man shouted, getting up. He tried to attack, but stepped back when Logi revealed a sheath hidden under his clothes. 

"Do you want to fight for it?"

The man shrieked, scurrying away. 

"Humph."

Hearing footsteps, he turned back, seeing a man and a young girl. The man kneeled to him in respect. 

"Samurai, I humbly thank you! Really, thank you very much!"

"No, it was nothing."

The girl stepped in, bowing to him. 

"You have our gratitude. Is there something we can do for you?"

"There's no need. I just did what I had to do. Excuse me."

He was about to turn and leave, but the girl spoke to him again.

"Samurai, are you headed to the castle town?"

He turned, his expression neutral.

"Yes."

"We are going there as well. If it's alright with you, may you accompany us?"

The girl's father put his hands together, bowing his head. 

"Please, we beg you. We might get attacked by another bandit on the way."

Logi was about to deny their request, but took a pause, glancing skyward. Was this the sign he was waiting for?

"...Very well. I accept your request."

The man and the girl looked at each other with glee. 

"Thank you very much!"

A small smile made it on Logi's face as he nodded in response, joining father and daughter. On the way, Logi had his eyes on his palm, where the ribbon was held. 

"It's pretty."

"Hm?"

He turned to see the young girl gazing at the ribbon.

"The ribbon is pretty."

"Th-Thanks."

"Who was it from?"

"I..."

He looked down.

"I don't know..."

"What do you mean?"

"...I'm sorry. I cannot burden you with my troubles."

A hand was put on his shoulder, making him tense up a bit. The girl gave him a sympathetic look.

"I can hear you out, as thanks for your help."

He sighed.

"...This will sound crazy."

"Really?"

"I... I don't remember my past."

Her eyes went wide.

"You have amnesia...?"

"Sort of. I remember my name, but my family and my life before now... It's a mystery to me."

"Oh... I'm sorry."

"Don't apologize."

"Is that why you are going to the capital? To find your family?"

"...If I have any."

"Don't say that!"

Her sudden cry surprised him.

"No family would leave their own behind! I'm sure they are looking for you!"

"After 10 years?"

"If I was in the shoes of your family, I would go to the ends of this earth to find my loved ones."

"Ah..."

"Oh, my apologies! I get carried away sometimes."

She giggled sheepishly, making Logi smile faintly.

"You have a strong spirit."

"Ahaha. Thank you, samurai."

"No, I have to thank you. You gave me the courage I needed."

"I'm happy I could help."

Later, they arrived at the castle town safely. The girl opened the bale, handing over a sack of rice to Logi. 

"This is our thanks for your help, and for your story."

"Please, you don't have to."

"You saved our rice from the bandit and were on the lookout all the way here. Please, accept our gift."

The man and the girl waited for him to take the sack. Logi smiled, taking it. 

"Thank you. Stay safe."

"Likewise, samurai. May the gods be with you."

They waved goodbye to each other. Logi looked around, seeing a busy marketplace. Despite the turmoil plaguing Wadatsumi, the people still fought to survive.

"I am here now."

He stopped for a moment to think. He was forced by the rebels to work for a Shiba Senko noble, but... What he wanted was to figure out who he was, what his life used to be like. And of course, to find his family. His eyes opened, walking around.  

"Hm?"

His eyes scanned a nearby wall. A poster of Greed Dike’s emblem hung crooked, half torn and scribbled over with a crude fox’s tail. But something else caught his attention; banners of protest against the current reign of Shiba Senko and Greed Dike.

"The coalition must fall?"

He squinted his eyes at the corner of the banner, seeing a fox symbol. 

"Interested?"

Hearing the voice behind his back, he turned to see an old man. 

"Well, I am curious."

The old man put a hand close to his mouth, whispering his words. 

"You can find them in the old palace. But you didn't hear it from me."

"What do you- Oh."

"Go, go."

He nodded, leaving the old man behind. 

"The old palace..."

Logi raised his head, his eyes following the path up the hill, where the old palace with its tiered roofs loomed over the castle town. He exhaled, his hands trembling.

The old palace wasn’t just a place. It was calling to him.

Chapter Text

Amane and Azami went up the hill, the old castle coming into view with each step. Azami kept glancing around for anyone that could follow them. 

"Are we in the clear?"

Azami looked around one more time, turning to Amane afterwards and nodding.

"Let's get inside, quick."

Amane opened a panel on the wall. Azami climbed first, then Amane, who closed the panel. They crawled to a secret passage, ending up in the servant quarters. There were people there, all donned with a light blue uniform that had a fox symbol on the back. They seemed tense, ready to draw their weapons at the arrival of the two girls. Yet, upon closer inspection, they realized who they were and relaxed. 

"It's good to see you safe, vice captain Azami, vice captain Amane."

Azami nodded at her squad member, setting down the sack on the table. Amane did the same, turning to another member of their group. 

"Where are the captains?"

"At the old study."

"Good. Azami, let's go."

"Yes. But first..."

Azami opened a sack, taking out a few rice balls and setting them on a tray. 

"The captains must be hungry by now. Help me out, Amane."

"Right."

A few minutes later, both girls left the room with trays of rice balls, heading to the study room. Upon opening the door, Amane peeked inside, seeing two men reading scrolls. 

"We're back!"

Her words got their attention. A man with grey hair grinned upon seeing them.

"Thank the gods! I was worried you were caught!"

Azami strode to another man with dark red hair, her expression stoic as she made her way to him.

"If we were caught, we would bring shame to the Blade Fox."

The grey-haired man's lips curled to a small smile at Azami's statement. 

"Heh, as expected of vice-captain of the first squad."

The girls put down the trays on a small table. Amane glanced at the men, seeing them go over piles of documents.

"Captain Tanosuke, what are those?"

"These? Testimonies of people who supposedly saw the surviving royalty."

"Those are lies."

The man with dark red hair spoke, taking off his glasses. Azami joined his side with rice balls in hand. 

"All of them?"

"None of them match our knowledge of the royal family. For people to stoop this low... I will not forgive them."

"The rumor probably started to help people make it through the days of hardship."

Tanosuke responded, grabbing a rice ball from Amane's hands.

"That is no excuse!"

"It was an assumption, Ugachi."

"Humph."

Ugachi picked a rice ball too, putting his glasses on and reading while taking a bite. 

"Captain Ugachi, get some rest. I will look over the paperwork."

"Azami, I can do this. You can prepare dinner with that rookie over there."

"Hey!"

"Amane, don't start a fight."

"But captain Tanosuke-"

"You don't want to pick a fight with Ugachi. Trust me."

"Ugh, fine!"

Amane grumbled under her breath, making her captain chuckle. The girls went to do their task, leaving the men alone in their job.

"You know, you can be nicer to Amane. She's part of the team."

"I said nothing but the truth."

"That's cold of you."

As they ate, they read more testimonies, both growing weary. 

"I'm done."

"With the rice or the reports?"

Ugachi glared, but that only fueled Tanosuke's amusement. Ugachi shook his head, his tone serious.

"I sincerely doubt the prince is alive. If he did survive the palace siege, he would have appeared."

Tanosuke's relaxed smile faded.

"Maybe he's hiding? The rebels are merciless. They find him, they will get his head."

"...That's a possibility."

"Or maybe he fled to Envylia to his dear grandma."

"All on his own?"

"Okay, that is a bit far-fetched."

"Even if he did, wouldn't lady Kagura drop the announcement?"

"Oh, right. Well, let's call it a day. We need a long rest after this."

Suddenly, Ugachi turned his head swiftly, catching Tanosuke's attention.

"What's up?"

Ugachi turned to him.

"Did you hear something?"

"Hm... No."

Huffing, the man stood up, opening the door to the old study.

-an hour earlier-

The castle loomed in the distance, untouched by time. As Logi turned a corner, his blood ran cold. 

There, half-shrouded in the morning mist, stood the Shiba Senko rebels, the ones that forced Logi to leave the shrine. Accompanied by half a dozen armed men, the lead rebel surveyed the streets like a wolf sniffing for prey.

Logi ducked into a narrow alley, pressing his back against the damp wall. His breath caught as the men drew closer, boots echoing like war drums. The lead rebel spoke, his tone sharp. 

“I told him at sundown. He's late." 

One of his men shifted. 

“Want us to check the shrine? He could have holed up there. We burn it down if they’re hiding him.”

Logi’s heart pounded in his ears.

No... not the shrine. The children... the shrine maidens...

But if he showed himself now, he’d lose everything. The answers. His freedom. His chance to end this.

He swallowed hard, thinking fast. Then he saw it. A pile of discarded cloth near a barrel; tattered, dusty.

A Greed Dike military uniform.

Logi crouched and inspected it. A coat with the insignia still intact. Too big, but it would do. He put it on and took a shaky breath before stepping out of the shadows. The rebel took notice the moment he appeared.

“You. Stop.”

Logi halted, forcing his hands steady. The lead rebel narrowed his eyes, taking note of the uniform's condition.

“Why aren’t you with the other patrols?”

Logi's hands trembled slightly as he replied.

“I saw someone acting suspicious. He put up a fight. But I turned him in to my unit down the road.”

The lead rebel stood still, assessing the statement. Then, unexpectedly, he grinned.

“Fast on your feet, huh? It seems you had quite a challenge.”

The rebel leaned closer, much to Logi's discomfort. But he steeled himself. 

"Say, did you happen to see a young man? Red hair, blue eyes."

There it was. Still, he had to buy some time.

"Why do you ask?"

"A new recruit. A stubborn one at that. Acting high and mighty, thinking he's some royalty."

The rebels laughed. One chimed in, his eyes glinting with cruelty.

"He will change his tune once he's brought before Shiba Senko."

The lead rebel chuckled. It took a lot of effort from Logi to hear them speak of him with such mockery. 

"So, have you seen him?"

A pause. He needed to choose his words carefully. 

"He was the one."

The eyes of the rebels widened. 

"My unit probably threw him in the dungeons after I turned him in."

The leader blinked. Then barked a laugh. 

“Ha! Already causing trouble, huh? Figures.”

He motioned to his men. 

“Come, men. We’ll pay the bastard a welcome visit.”

As they marched off, Logi didn’t move. Not until the last footstep vanished down the cobblestone road. He ducked into the alley again, tore off the uniform, and let out a long sigh. He whispered under his breath, his hands still trembling from the encounter. 

“I hope that keeps them away from the shrine.”

The castle still waited above. But now, the path was clear.

...

In the dim light of the old kitchen, Amane stood over the iron cauldron, arms crossed, a disheartened look on her face. The thin broth inside simmered gently, a watery soup made with wild greens and little else. The faint scent of bitterness lingered in the air.

Her shoulders slumped.

“This is it? This is all we can make... again.”

Azami, busy arranging some chipped bowls on the counter, looked over at her. 

“Amane? Are you okay?”

Amane didn’t answer at first. She clenched her jaw, staring into the bubbling pot like it had insulted her. Then she responded, her voice low and heavy.

“I hate this. I hate that everyone here has to starve while those rebels feast like kings.”

Azami didn’t speak. Her silence wasn’t indifference, it was understanding. Deep, shared frustration settled between them. After a moment, Amane exhaled through her nose. 

“I wish Celis was here. She’d fight tooth and nail just to make sure no one went hungry.”

That name brought a warmth to the room that even the soup couldn’t offer. The girls fell quiet, and memories pulled them into a different time, years ago, in a kitchen far warmer and fuller than this one.

A beautiful woman with strawberry blonde hair tied to a braid, held a tray of rice balls, her voice cheerful. 

"Meal's ready!" 

She kneeled, her smile bright as her light blue eyes met those of two little girls.

“Now, put your hands together and say: thank you for the meal!”

Both girls did as they were told. 

“Thank you for the meal!” 

Azami took her first bite and smiled instantly.

"It’s so good! I love your cooking, Celis!”

Celis replied warmly, putting her hands together in delight.

“That makes me happy to hear.”

Then she turned to Amane, her eyes twinkling with glee at the sight.

“Amane, don’t rush or you’ll end up choking.”

Amane looked up, speaking through a full mouth. 

“I’ll be fine! I wanna get big and strong as soon as possible!”

Feigning curiosity, Celis crossed her arms in amusement.

“Oh? Why is that?”

“I wanna get big and vanquish ogres! So I got to eat a lot!”

Azami scoffed at her side. 

“Eating too much won’t help, especially if you swallow your food whole. Can’t you eat properly?”

Amane turned, her eyes blazing with confidence.

“It won’t be long before you can’t boss me around anymore! I’m going to eat a lot, get big and strong, and surpass you in every way!”

“I’d like to see you try!”

“Oh, just you wait! Celis! I want seconds!”

Celis didn't get up. Instead, she giggled softly.

“Hehe.” 

Confused, both girls looked at her as they asked in unison.

“What?” 

“I’m sorry."

She folded her hands on her lap, her voice gentler now.

“It’s just… you two seem to be doing so much better now. Neither of you are the same kids I met on that rainy day back then.”

Both girls spoke at once.

“It’s all thanks to you, Celis!” 

“I’m glad you think so.” 

Her smile faltered for just a second. 

“I just wish days like these could last forever. Oh, how I wish…”

The present returned with the soft crackling of firewood under the pot. Amane let out a small, bittersweet laugh.

“I’d give anything to see her again. Even just once…”

Azami’s hands tightened on the counter. She didn’t respond right away. Her expression was calm, but her voice was firm when she finally spoke.

“I’ll fight. For her sake. I’ll uphold everything she believed in.”

Amane looked at her, blinking.

“Three meals a day are essential for a healthy mind and body. That’s what she always said. We’ll make that a reality… someday.”

A quiet moment passed between them, heavy with both loss and determination. Then—

A sudden sound broke through the silence. Wood splintering. A creak that didn’t belong to the fire or the old walls.

Both girls froze. Amane's fingers reached the hilt of her katana.

“…Did you hear that?” 

Azami’s eyes sharpened. 

“Yeah.”

She stepped toward the doorway, steady and alert. 

“I’ll go check it out.”

Amane followed without hesitation. 

“I’m not letting you go alone.”

Together, they left the kitchen, their footsteps quiet against the worn wooden floor, every sense on edge. 

-around the same time-

Logi had finally reached the old castle. Its snowy silhouette loomed above him, damaged and worn by time, yet somehow defiant; still standing tall, its walls unyielding against the cold wind that whipped through the surrounding hills.

"Whoa..."

He took cautious steps forward, his boots crunching softly in the snow. The outer walls were cracked, wooden panels clumsily boarded over the entrance. He slung the rice sack off his back and set it down, reaching out to test the boards. 

"Hm..."

The boards creaked at his touch. With a grunt, he pulled harder. To his surprise, the entire panel gave way all at once.

"OH!"

He stumbled back a few steps, nearly falling as the boards collapsed into the snow. Letting out a sigh, he brushed off his hands and picked up the sack again. With hesitant steps, he crossed the threshold into the castle. Inside, the air shifted. It was warmer than outside, despite the cracks in the wood that let shafts of light pour in. The scent of aged timber and dust filled his lungs.

The main hall stretched before him, quiet and still.

Though time had clearly left its mark, with splintered beams, worn stairs, and faded wall panels, the place retained a strange sense of charm. Lanterns hung from thick wooden beams, their paper faded but intact. A red parasol leaned against the stair railing, untouched. Tables sat low with purple-trimmed cloths still draped over them, as if the room had been waiting.

"Do people really live here...?"

He stepped further inside. The light from the cracks cast long shadows across the wooden floors, illuminating forgotten objects: cushions stacked in a corner, scrolls tied neatly on a bench, a lucky cat statue nestled by a vase of withered flowers. It was… cozy, in a haunting kind of way.

"I thought this place was pillaged..."

A breeze swept through a crack in the wall, fluttering one of the hanging tassels. Logi closed his eyes, the wind brushing softly against his face. And then, something stirred in his chest. He pressed his hand against the left side.

"This feels... familiar."

His eyes roamed the vast, empty hall. Suddenly, three children appeared. Laughing. Chasing one another through the very hall where he now stood. He blinked, and the children were gone. Logi shook his head, looking up at the dusty lanterns. This time, a man lifted a child to light one of the hanging lanterns. He shook his head again, running his fingers through his hair.

"Am I seeing things?"

Confused, he pressed forward, footsteps light. At the back of the hall stood a small, elevated wooden stage. As he neared it, the air thickened, and the room… changed. A whisper of music brushed his ears. Strings, and maybe, flutes? Then, people appeared, elegantly dressed in silks and golds. Nobles. Their conversations hushed, and they all turned toward him. They bowed. He returned the gesture instinctively, though confusion swirled inside him. The stage lit up, no longer dusty and bare; dancers twirled with practiced grace, their clothes flowing like petals on the wind.

"Logi."

He turned upon hearing his name. Two people approached him. One was a young woman with long, blonde hair and rose gold eyes, and the other was a young man with long, dark hair and crimson eyes. The young man placed a hand on Logi's shoulder, looking at him with a playful smirk.

"Absent-minded as always, Logi."

The young woman giggled, placing a dark robe with gold patterns on Logi.

"Here. You forgot this."

Logi was quiet, accepting the robe without question. The gold patterns on the robe revealed a phoenix design, matching with the overall bird motif all around him. Both of them stood on each side of him, all three watching the mesmerizing performance. Logi glanced at the crowd, seeing them parting and bowing. Behind him, a couple approached the trio. The young man and young woman stepped to the side. His blue eyes were locked with those of the couple; a man with red hair and blue eyes, and a woman with strawberry blonde hair and light blue eyes. 

Logi couldn’t look away. They didn’t speak, and they didn’t have to. The warmth radiating from their eyes, and their tender smiles said it all. The young man and young woman left his side and joined the couple. Nostalgia washed over Logi. He didn't know these people, but his heart ached at the sight of them. Who exactly were they? The older man with red hair stepped forward, putting an arm on Logi's shoulder and patting him on the back. Logi wanted to speak out, but the words were caught in his throat.

Wait. What exactly did he want to say? And why did it feel so important?

"Hey!"

A gasp left his mouth as everything vanished. Amane and Azami were on the staircase, gazing below. Azami yelled at him.

"What are you doing in here?!"

Startled, he ran the way he came, prompting the girls to chase after him. 

"Come back here!"

Azami lunged forward, unsheathing her blade midair. But to her surprise, Logi skidded to a halt, drew his own blade, and met her strike with a sharp clang of steel. They made eye contact, the look in their eyes cold and unforgiving. 

"Azami, wait!"

Amane caught up, panting. 

"We don't know if he's an enemy!"

"Don't stop me, Amane."

As she turned to face the intruder, she addressed him with her next sentence.

"You are skilled."

"So are you. But you are rigid."

Her eyes narrowed, their blades making an ear-piercing screech. 

"Don't run your mouth too much."

"Likewise!"

With that response, he retaliated, sending her back. As she prepared for a strike, something started to glow. Amane took out a stone, which was the source of the glow.

"Mikaboshi is reacting?"

"To what?"

The light emitted from the stone casted its glow to the surrounding area. The girls could see the man's face much more clearly. Their eyes shifted to a large multi-panel folding screen behind him, leaving them in shock. Logi lowered a brow in confusion. 

"Amane, do you see what I see?"

"Y-Yes."

"What is going on down there?"

The girls turned at the new voice, seeing their captains at the staircase, gazing at the trio from the other side. 

"Captain Tanosuke, captain Ugachi, you have to see this."

Curious at Amane's statement, the men approached them, seeing the newcomer for themselves. Tanosuke studied the young man.

"Hm? Who do we have here?"

Logi eyed the two carefully. Ugachi mirrored his suspicion.

"Are you the Blade Fox?"

They looked at each other for a moment, with Tanosuke responding to the question.

"Depends on who is asking."

Logi raised a brow at the response. Tanosuke noticed a small piece of cloth near Azami's feet, picking it up. Turning it over, he read two words; Logi Crowley. Logi stiffened seeing the cloth in the man's hands. He must have dropped during the skirmish with the girl. 

"Can you give it back?"

Tanosuke chuckled lowly, approaching him and handing over the white cloth.

"Now, now. I wasn't going to steal it. So boy, what brings you here?"

"I saw the banners. You plan to overthrow the Shiba Senko?"

The four of them were quiet, exchanging uneasy looks. Clearly, this wasn't information they were eager to share. Logi sighed.

"I am not working with the Shiba Senko, if that's what you are wondering."

Ugachi observed the young man from head to toe.

"How can we trust you?"

"Well, before coming here, I-"

Logi paused as he noticed Amane circling around him, eyes fixed.

"What are you doing?"

She jolted, startled. 

"I'm sorry. It's just that you..."

"I what?"

"You look like the lost prince."

Her statement surprised him for a moment, making him blink twice. 

"Why would you say that?'

Amane seemed surprised, retorting.

"Maybe you should take a look behind you."

Frowning, he turned to face the multi-panel folding screen. His face went pale. The folding screen showed a family — a husband, wife, and three children: two boys and a girl. One of the boys bore a striking resemblance to him. He shook his head in disbelief.

"No. No way."

He turned to the four.

"Are you messing with me?"

Amane seemed confused.

"What?"

"You are not suggesting that I am that lost prince."

"I agree."

The three turned to Ugachi.

"Ugachi?"

"This is too much of a coincidence."

Tanosuke scratched his chin thoughtfully, trying to figure out a way out of this predicament.

"I'll handle this."

As soon as he said that, Ugachi narrowed his eyes.

"Don't screw this up."

"I won't. Trust me."

Tanosuke turned to Logi.

"My apologies, but I read what was written on that cloth. Your name is Logi Crowley?"

"...Yes."

The response had their eyes widen. Logi was surprised at their reaction.

"What?"

"You share a name with the lost prince. Though the last name doesn't match..."

"Really...?"

"Where have you lived until now?"

"At a shrine."

"Since when?"

"Since I was eleven."

"Hmm... Logi Crowley, pardon me, but do you know the people on that folding screen painting?"

He turned to face the folding screen painting, his fingers brushing the face of the little redheaded boy. His eyes drifted to the other faces in the painting. Something about them stirred something deep within, but... Logi turned to face the Blade Fox, hesitating before answering.

"...No."

The others stiffened. Though that didn't stop Tanosuke from pressing further.

"So you remember nothing?"

"Exactly. But..."

Logi took out the ribbon, staring at the words sewn on it.

Together in Envylia.

"I have a clue to my past, and that is Envylia. I might recall my memories if I go there."

His statement was met with raised brows and gasps. They started murmuring amongst themselves. 

"This is odd. This man looks just like the prince, but older, and wants to go to Envylia."

"And the former queen is in Envylia."

"Azami, are you seriously buying her nonsense?"

"Not necessarily. But if he happens to be the prince, then we are wasting a good opportunity."

"Azami is right, Ugachi."

"This is likely a huge coincidence."

"Is that how you see it? You do realize that the former queen is looking for her grandson, right?"

"And this guy is the one?"

"Precisely."

"...I hate you, Tanosuke."

"Aww, but I like you."

"Shut it."

They stopped talking, looking up at Logi.

"Are you done with your meeting?"

"Don't get cocky."

"Lighten up, Ugachi. So, Logi Crowley, have you heard about a certain... announcement?"

"What announcement?"

"The former queen of Wadatsumi is looking for her lost grandson, and she currently resides in Envylia."

"I heard about that."

"Well, since you want to go there, have you ever wondered that her Highness may be your family? Perhaps, you are the one she has been waiting for."

Logi paused, taken aback at the suggestion. 

"I don't know. It's hard to think that when you are an orphan living in a temple and eating scraps... But I guess one can dream they can be a prince."

"And someone out there... is."

Seeing Tanosuke smile at him, Logi pondered over the idea. He had no memory of his past, so for him to have been royalty before the rebellion... 

"How..."

"Hm?"

"How are you so sure I may be the lost prince?"

"Well, look at you."

Tanosuke got to his side, showing him the painting. 

"You have Zeke's blue eyes."

Amane rushed to them.

"And Celis' face."

"And the signature red hair. Oh, even the top hair strands, just like the former queen!"

Slightly annoyed that someone touched his hair, he batted Tanosuke's hand away, making the latter chuckle. 

"And that's it? I just look similar to the royal family?"

"If the prince did survive, he would be the same age as you."

"...Is that so?"

"Look, you don't know what happened to you, and no one knows what happened to him. If you put two and two together..."

He thought about the words for a moment. Could it really be true? After all these years… was he never just some orphan scraping by? The thought was too big to hold. And yet, it refused to leave his mind.

"Alright, let's suppose I am the lost prince."

"Go on."

"What then? If the rebels find out I am the last surviving member of the royal family, won't they hunt me down?"

The Blade Fox exchanged glances to each other, looking back at the young man.

"If you are Logi Suho, there is no need to worry."

Azami spoke, showing her sheath.

"As the Blade Fox, we seek to reunite the lost prince with the former queen, and get their support so we can take down the rebels and bring glory to Wadatsumi."

"...You seemed hesitant to share your plans with me before."

"The circumstances have changed."

"The resistance has strange rules."

"Quit it, or you will be kicked out!"

Azami's retort only amused Logi further, letting out a chuckle. Ugachi turned his back on everyone, frustrated with this turn of events. His fellow captain got to his side.

"Ugachi, relax."

"We are making a big mistake."

"I understand you have your concerns-"

"Can we really be sure that he is Logi Suho?"

"If he isn't him, the queen will surely realize it right away."

"We are wasting time and effort."

"Something tells me we are on the right track."

"If this goes sideways, I have you to blame."

"You are free to do that, only if I am wrong."

Ugachi huffed, making Tanosuke chuckle. This was a strange day.

Chapter Text

In a dimly lit cave stood a powerful creature known as Discarnate Power. An ogre many feared, double the size of any man, crowned in a mane of sinew and horns. Around him, smaller ogres feasted like beasts, tearing flesh from bone with wild, ecstatic fervor.

"Hmmmmm...... This isn't going according to plan. We were meant to rule Wadatsumi, not those foolish humans!"

Suddenly, from the darkness near the entrance, soft, deliberate footsteps echoed, sandals tapping stone with ceremonial weight. A figure emerged.

"Excuse me."

All heads turned. The feasting ceased. It was a tall man draped in pristine white and indigo robes, accented with crimson cords and golden fixtures that shimmered faintly in the firelight. His long, sand-blonde hair framed a fox mask that concealed his identity; save for the sharp line of his mouth, calm and unreadable. A katana rested at his hip, but it was the poise he carried, not the blade, that made the smaller ogres hesitate.

"What are you doing here? I was not informed you would be visiting."

"I come with urgent business. I believe you'll want to hear it."

"I find it difficult to believe that something so urgent could happen in Wadatsumi as it is now."

His hand reached within his robes and drew forth a folded, worn cloth. As he unfolded it, the coat of arms of Wadatsumi, the phoenix, was revealed. The moment the symbol was exposed, the ogres snarled.

"A fire once thought extinguished... flickers again. You probably understand what that means."

The monster was taken aback.

"The sacred art of Kagutsuchi..."

"If he is left alone, it would become another variable we'd be forced to deal with. It seemed best to inform you of this development."

"Mm. Another variable to take into account, indeed."

The large ogre towered over the mysterious man, yet the latter wasn't bothered.

"However, I seem to recall that you were responsible for the fall of the Suho family. And yet you let one of them, the only threat to our existence, get away."

The man’s lips curled into a thin line.

"An unpredicted encounter prevented me from finishing my job in the past. This time, I won't let any more variables interfere with my plans."

Discarnate Power growled, his voice a deep rumble echoing off the cave walls.

"Heheh. This is perfect. The Kuroto, the Kagomurasaki and the Suho in one place. Us ogres will be pleased with this feast."

The man bowed, but even the gesture felt like a threat.

"Of course. All is for Wadatsumi."

...

An old map of Wadatsumi was spread across a battered wooden table, lit by the warm flicker of an oil lamp. Ugachi leaned over it, marking landmarks with sharp, practiced motions. Around him, Tanosuke, Azami, Amane, and other Blade Fox members huddled close, their faces serious. Tanosuke pointed at a spot on the map, addressing the rest of the members. 

"This will be our escape route. We hit the port by midnight."

Ugachi adjusted his glasses, his voice gruff.

"We'll split into two groups. It will attract less attention that way."

As the plans were being laid out, Azami stepped back, heading for the door. Amane glanced at her, looking away from the group.

"Azami, where are you going?"

"Checking on Logi Crowley." 

Without waiting for a reply, she left. Amane hesitated for a moment, but followed her trail. Getting out of the study, they stepped out into the main hall. In the center of it, Logi stood alone, gazing up at an ancient hanging scroll painting. The painting depicted a woman with flowing red hair and fierce amber eyes, and a young red-haired, blue-eyed boy clinging to her hand.

The girls approached him slowly, their footsteps light. Azami moved closer to him, speaking to him.

"That’s the former queen."

Logi didn’t answer, letting his mind process her words. His blue eyes were locked on the scroll. He murmured softly to himself.

"...Is she really my grandma?"

Amane, noticing how Logi’s hand clenched and unclenched at his side, stepped nearer.

"What’s wrong?"

He remained silent briefly, then lowered his head.

"I’m... worried. About leaving Wadatsumi."

Azami and Amane exchanged glances. 

"Why?"

Logi hesitated at Azami's question. Then he slowly began to speak, his words heavy.

"Before I came to the palace... The Shiba Senko came at the shrine. They threatened a child, but I stopped them before they could do anything."

Amane clasped her hands together, her hair on her body rising.

"Then?"

"They forced me to work for their lord... But I tricked them. I pretended to be a Greed Dike soldier and ran once they were out of sight."

He tightened his fists again.

"If they realize I’m gone... they’ll burn the shrine. Everyone inside... all because of me."

A tense silence followed. Then, without warning, Azami turned and left without a word.

"Azami?"

Amane was puzzled for a moment. She looked back at Logi, determination sparking in her dark blue eyes.

"The rebels won’t get their way."

Logi blinked, curious as his eyes met hers.

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"Blade Fox exists to protect people; to vanquish ogres and bring back days of joy."

Amane smiled proudly as she spoke of Blade Fox. After that, her eyes narrowed. 

"The Shiba Senko are no different from ogres. We won’t let them do whatever they please."

Her words hit Logi hard, an ember of hope kindling inside him. He smiled faintly. As he stared at her radiant grin, a strange feeling stirred in his chest. A sudden, unexplainable familiarity, as if he had seen her smile before, long ago.

Before he could think more about it, footsteps echoed down the hall. It was Azami, with Ugachi, Tanosuke, and several other Blade Fox members in tow. Gazing at Logi, Tanosuke chuckled while scratching his head.

"We heard you gave the Shiba Senko a real headache. Clever work, kid."

Logi lowered his eyes, guilt creeping back. Seeing this, Tanosuke’s grin softened. He strode over and clapped Logi lightly on the shoulder.

"Hey. Don’t stress. Look over there."

When Logi did, a few Blade Fox members stepped forward, standing at attention. Ugachi took a step forward with a stern look.

"We’re sending a squad to the shrine. Nobody will lay a finger on it."

Logi’s breath caught. His throat tightened as he bowed his head. He felt the weight inside him lift just a little.

"Thank you..."

"Great! Now then... Are you up for a trip?"

Logi blinked at Tanosuke in confusion. The man grinned.

"Huh?"

"You and me. We’re stepping out for a bit. There's something we need to do. But before that-"

He took out a cloak, putting it on Logi's shoulders. Logi stared at the cloak, noticing Tanosuke putting one on as well. Amane frowned, crossing her arms at her captain.

"Why can’t I go too?! I’m your apprentice!"

Tanosuke turned to her, smirking.

"You stay here and help Blade Fox. We have got a lot riding on you, you know."

Amane pouted, but didn’t argue further. Logi glanced between them, bewildered. Soon, he and the captain of the second regiment left the old palace. Walking down the steep path, they passed the castle town, arriving at the port. Logi tightened the hood around his head, trying to cover his face as much as he could.

"What are we looking for?"

"A vessel."

"I thought no one was allowed to leave Wadatsumi."

Tanosuke scanned the pier, lowering his voice to a whisper.

"Unfortunately, that's true. However, we have to leave immediately."

"And how do you plan to do that?"

"Ugachi will figure out something."

"Hm..."

As they walked among the rows of ships, a strange, heavy unease gripped Logi's chest. Although he couldn't quite remember, something about them made him very nervous. Suddenly, the scenery became misty, and a crowd of terrified faces, pressing and shoving, replaced the citizens. Somewhere a scream rang out, but it was swallowed by the roar of the mob. 

Logi gasped, catching Tanosuke's attention.

"Hey. What's wrong?"

Tanosuke’s voice cut through the haze. Logi blinked rapidly, snapping back to reality. His eyes were wide with alarm, but he forced his breathing steady.

"Oh. I'm fine."

Tanosuke watched him a moment, then shrugged, scanning the ships.

"Ooh, that one is perfect."

"Are we buying it?"

"Of course we are."

They approached the ship dealer, who bowed with a thin, practiced smile.

"How may I help you?"

Pointing at one of the ships, Tanosuke responded. 

"We want that vessel."

"That will be 1 million zeni."

"1 million? Can you lower the price?"

"Then you might be interested in another one?"

Tanosuke gazed over at the other vessels, lowering a brow.

"They are too small."

"That vessel is a million. Take it or leave it."

"Dear gods."

Logi, who witnessed the exchange in silence, put an arm over Tanosuke, surprising him.

"I have an idea."

"...All right."

Logi turned over to the ship dealer.

"We will be back for that vessel."

"Fine. If you come back with the money, I'll keep it for you."

"Thank you. Let's go."

"Boy, what are you planning?"

"Don't worry, I am not being reckless."

The duo left the port, going to the marketplace. They made their way to a pawn shop. The shopkeeper, a short, thin man, greeted them with a small but sly toothy grin.

"Welcome."

Logi approached the shop owner, taking out a glittering blue stone. His fingers curled around the stone, its cold surface warming slightly in his palm. He stared into the blue gem for a moment too long, catching a flicker of three smiling faces, but the image scattered before he could name them. He blinked. 

"I want to trade this gem."

"Hm?"

The man took the stone in his hands, his eyes wide with wonder.

"Ooh! I haven't seen a gem like this in my life! It's like looking in a mirror!"

"How much do I get from it?"

"This one costs a fortune!"

"Do we have a deal?"

"We do, boy. Just give me a moment."

...

Amane was halfway through lifting the rice sack Logi left behind when Azami’s sharp voice cut through the air.

“Don’t touch that.”

“Eeh? Why not?”

“This is a long journey. We’ll need food.”

“We’re not going to die just because we have a little less rice…”

“Amane.”

"Fine! It's not even ours anyway..."

Azami sighed, looking over at her captain. Ugachi was collecting documents and putting them in a chest before turning to face the girls. 

"Are you two done arguing?"

"More or less."

"The food supply?"

"We have enough."

"Good."

"I hope captain Tanosuke bought a good vessel for us."

Ugachi said nothing, his face unreadable. But Azami recognized the slight furrow in his brow; he was worried too. She watched him in quiet admiration. One day, she’d be just as composed.

"Ah! They're back!"

Amane's cry got their attention. They noticed Tanosuke and Logi entering the hideout. 

"Did you get it?"

"Thank your Highness. He got my back."

Logi got red in the face, looking away shyly. 

"What do you mean?"

Azami got closer to them, taking notice of Logi's reaction. 

"We have a good vessel thanks to him."

"Really?! That's amazing!"

Amane approached Logi with excitement, taking his hands on hers. 

"We are indebted to you, Logi Crowley!"

"...Logi."

"Huh?"

"Just call me Logi. No need to be so formal."

"Hm... Okay."

Ugachi and Azami stared at him for a moment, sharing the same thought. 

"He is quite humble for someone with high status."

Azami glanced at Ugachi as she spoke, seeing him standing still. Then, Tanosuke turned to Ugachi.

"Hey Ugachi. Do we have a plan?"

"We'll leave by midnight. The security is tight by that time, but if we are careful, we can escape Wadatsumi successfully."

"I see. It's not a bad plan. Do we have everything ready?"

"We should."

"Great! I suggest we have a feast! We need fuel for tonight!"

Azami rolled her eyes.

“This is not the time for jokes, captain.”

“Who said I’m joking?”

Tanosuke smirked, then nodded at Logi. Logi took a step forward, dragging two full sacks from behind his back.

“W-Where did you get those?!”

Chuckling at his pupil's reaction, Tanosuke gestured to Logi again. 

"Logi traded a gem he had for money. We bought the vessel with it, and used the leftover money to buy some food."

"Can we... Can we actually eat this?"

"There is plenty, so have your fill."

"Yay!"

"Amane, sheesh! Don't start eating without me!"

Watching the girls fight over food and Tanosuke trying to calm them down made Logi smile. It reminded him of his days back in the temple, when he used to fight with the other orphans for their meal. Maybe staying with them wasn't going to be so bad.

...

"Stay in your positions. We'll move when I give the signal."

"Understood, captain Ugachi."

They were hiding from the patrolling soldiers of Greed Dike, who were surveying the area day and night for any... renegades. Once they would be out of sight, they would use that opportunity to get their belongings inside the vessel and make it out. 

"Something is not right."

Everyone turned to look at Tanosuke. Amane spoke up as quietly as she could.

"Captain?"

"I sense ogres around this area."

Azami tightened her grip on the hilt of her blade.

"Now that you mention it, I feel it too."

Ugachi scowled.

"Not now. We cannot fight them at this time."

Their conversation came to a screeching halt as some ogres appeared and attacked the soldiers. In seconds, the port turned to a bloodbath. Ugachi sprung to his feet, unsheathing his sword.

"Change of plans. We hold off the ogres."

"And our belongings?"

"Azami, I leave it up to you and that rookie."

"Understood, captain."

Amane was about to complain, but Tanosuke interjected quickly. 

"Amane, this isn't the right time."

She grumbled for a bit, grabbing their stuff along with Azami. Tanosuke turned to Logi, seeing the young man unsheathe his own katana.

"Hey Logi. Can you fight?"

"I have had my fair share of ogres before."

"That we will see."

The men rushed out of their hiding spot, engaging in a battle with the ogres. Seeing the ogres were distracted, the girls took the opportunity to transport their belongings to the vessel. 

"We're in!"

Azami caught movement out of the corner of her eye. Then, she took notice of a figure rushing towards Amane. 

"Amane, look out!"

She barely had any time to react, seeing an ogre about to lunge at her. Thankfully Azami took it down with her katana, its now lifeless body falling limp. 

"Amane, we have to protect this vessel."

"Yeah. Thanks for saving me."

"Heh. You should watch your head."

"That I can do."

She unsheathed her katana, ready to fight alongside Azami. Meanwhile, outside of the ship, the trio managed to kill a large group of ogres. Tanosuke took out two ogres with his twin katanas, wiping blood from his face.

"There is no end to them!"

Ugachi thrusted his blade to an ogre, killing it.

"If they are this persistent, they want something. But what?"

"Your heads."

They looked at each other, wondering who had spoken. Suddenly, a larger ogre made an appearance, towering over them. Logi's hand trembled as he observed the creature.

"Who is that?"

Ugachi gritted his teeth.

"Discarnate Power. He's the leader of ogres."

"Discarnate... Power...?"

The name sounded familiar to Logi, yet he couldn't recall the time he heard it. The monster spoke, his voice echoing like thunder.

"It's your heads I want. His in particular."

A small gasp escaped Logi.

"Mine...?"

"Suho, Kagomurasaki and Kuroto. I will kill them all. And after that, the rest of the humans will follow."

Suho. That also sounded familiar. Supposedly he was the last Suho. And at the same time that name sounded foreign to him. No way this thing thought he was one of them... It probably was a mistake... right?

"I would love to chat with you, but unfortunately we don't have the time."

Tanosuke spoke, getting its attention. 

"Yes, I am aware. You want to leave. Too bad for you, this place will be your grave."

With those words, the Discarnate Power attacked Logi, who managed to defend in time. 

"Tanosuke!"

"Right on it!"

Both captains jumped to the fray. Whatever its intentions were, they were not going to let it have its way. But even with their combined power, the battle with the leader of the ogres proved to be tough. 

"Stay down."

With a single strike, the Discarnate Power sent them flying. Wounded and tired, they looked up at their foe. 

"All things must come to an end, I suppose. Hmmmmm... I will start with you."

Logi shuddered, barely holding his blade. 

"Logi, run..."

Good advice on Tanosuke's part, but there was a problem. Logi could not move. Was it fatigue? Fear? Had he given up? In the face of death, there was only a few words he could think of.

"I don't want... to die..."

"I don't want... to die..."

Two young boys were surrounded by ogres in the forest. They tried their best fighting, but were overwhelmed by their numbers. The boy with red hair was on the ground, holding his injured arm as his blue eyes were filled with tears of pain.  

"Hey! Leave my brother alone!"

"Dias..."

The ogres turned to the boy with dark hair and crimson eyes, who was holding out his small sword. 

"Devour me if you can, vile creatures!"

"Dias!!"

The boy with red hair had his eyes wide with terror, seeing a swarm of ogres going for the other boy. The latter was fighting with all he could. 

"Stay..."

He raised his sword, red feathers surrounding his being as his small body began to glow red.

"Stay away from him!"

The Discarnate Power rushed for the kill. Yet, he was met with resistance. Logi, as if on instinct, raised his katana and blocked the upcoming attack.

"Oh? You still have strength?"

Logi gritted his teeth. With what remained of his strength, he pushed back the Discarnate Power. The ogre was fazed, but he quickly recovered and prepared to pounce. However, he took a pause, seeing red feathers surround the young man and his body slowly glowing red. For a moment, Logi closed his eyes, seeing a vision of a red firebird. Then he opened his eyes, raising his blade high as he felt an energy swell within him; an energy that had remained dormant, and was now reawakened. 

"Kagutsuchi!"

The blade was engulfed in flames, and a large phoenix appeared. The Discarnate Power, realizing the immediate threat, tried to escape the attack, but it was able to connect. 

"Hrrrrrgggghhhh?!"

He stepped back, limping. Ugachi and Tanosuke were speechless, looking over at Logi with shock. 

"Was that..."

"The art of Kagutsuchi..."

Azami and Amane got out of the vessel, confused and worried as they gazed at the scene. 

"What happened?!"

Azami gasped upon laying her eyes on the creature. 

"You...!"

The Discarnate Power, heavily wounded by the earlier attack, looked at the girl with flowing, reddish brown hair.

"Filthy Kagomurasaki..."

Azami took a step forward, her blade glowing crimson.

"I am no longer the scared little girl you tried to devour in the past. Take this!"

Azami swung her katana at the monster, inflicting another flesh wound. 

"You filthy..."

"Not even you can't escape Kagomurasaki's technique."

Despite the wounds and the subsequential pain after, he wasn't going to give up. Desperate, he charged at the group with the intent to finish them off swiftly. But-

"Bind!"

The Discarnate Power was stuck in place, his movements restrained. Tanosuke was standing up, using one his techniques to hold off the beast.

"Tsk tsk. You forgot about us."

"You cannot keep me restrained with something like this...!"

"Beast Art Evocations Book One - Python!!"

Another blade swung, blank ink manifesting and turning to a python, hitting the Discarnate Power. As his body trembled. Amane lowered her katana. Then, Ugachi stood up, his katana drawn as he slowly approached the monster that had terrorized Wadatsumi for centuries. 

"Captain Ugachi...!"


Ugachi glanced at Amane.

"You worry too much, rookie."

Then his attention shifted to the beast.

"If I had the Treasure Blade, the chances of it dying would be higher. But I know the Kuroto technique."

The Discarnate Power stared at Ugachi.

"Do you really think you can kill me?"

"Fulfill your mission even if you die. A tenet all members of the Blade Fox stand by."

Without hesitation, Ugachi swung his blade, delivering the final blow. His body trembled again, then stood still for a moment before the large ogre fell limp to the ground with a loud thud. Azami took a cautious step forward.

"Is it... dead?"

Ugachi inspected its corpse with caution, checking it thoroughly. 

"Wadatsumi will be safer from now on."

They breathed out a sigh of relief, overjoyed with their victory. 

"Captain Ugachi, what was that phoenix from before?"

He stared ahead, making Azami and Amane do the same. They could see Logi standing still, breathing a bit heavily. Azami turned to face her captain.

"He manifested it?"

"For sure. Now we are certain he is the one."

Amane approached Logi.

"Are you okay? You look pale."

"I... will be fine..."

That was all the young man could say before his legs gave out, the world around him blurring and the voices muffled before he lost consciousness. Tanosuke hurried towards Logi, grabbing one of his arms. 

"Is he okay?"

"Don't worry Amane. He's passed out, but a little rest will do just fine."

Then they heard sounds of rushing footsteps and voices. Ugachi moved from his spot, urging the others to follow. 

"We need to leave fast. The backup forces are probably notified of the events."

"Yes!"

Chapter Text

Judius was in the cave, clenching his fist. 

"Discarnate Power failed and met its end. Logi Suho escaped successfully."

Though the mask obscured his eyes, the anger on his face was clear as day. He gritted his teeth.

"It will take time for me to get rid of this variable."

Looking over at his creations, the scowl he had turned to a sinister smile. 

"The Blade Fox have Mikaboshi in their possession. It has absorbed a lot of corruption over the past 10 years. Not even Logi Suho can resist its influence."

He let out a maniacal laughter.

"All is for Wadatsumi!"

...

Logi was out in the deck, his blue eyes on the ocean waters below. It gave him a sense of comfort, but his heart was still not at ease. 

"What's up?"

He turned, seeing Amane by his side. Logi didn't respond immediately; instead, he gazed ahead with longing. 

"A lot has happened in such a short while. I feel... lost."

She gazed at the waves with him. 

"Will you miss it?"

"Hm?"

"Wadatsumi, I mean."

He stood silent for a brief moment. 

"Even in ruin, home is still home. But nothing is left for me there."

"So that means you'll make Envylia your new home."

He stared at her in confusion. 

"Is there a reason you are asking me this?"

"No! I mean, no. I was just curious."

Logi didn't seem to buy her lie, but decided to drop the subject. None of them continued talking. For some time at least. 

"Amane, may I ask you something?"

"Sure."

"Am I really the lost prince?"

"I have no doubts."

"Why is that?"

"First, you look exactly like the lost prince. Second, you used the sacred art of the royal family. Third..."

She paused, taking out a stone. Logi looked at it with curiosity. 

"What is that?"

"One of the sacred treasures of Wadatsumi, the Spirit Stone Mikaboshi."

"Mikaboshi?!"

"So you know about it. Mikaboshi reacted to your presence back when we found you."

"That glow..."

"Mikaboshi can only react to those with the blood of Kagomurasaki, Kuroto or Suho. You are not Kagomurasaki or Kuroto, so that means you are Suho."

He stopped gazing at the ocean waves, stepping back. 

"And yet I don't believe it."

"Why not?"

"Do I look like a prince to you?"

Amane gazed at Logi from head to toe.

"Are you supposed to stand out because you are royalty?"

He paused. Amane wasn't entirely wrong. 

"Amane. Do you think the queen would want someone like me as her grandson?"

"Huh? Why wouldn't she? You are her only family."

"One I can't recall, as a matter of fact."

Now Logi was getting on her nerves. Why couldn't he be more confident?

"There is more than enough evidence to prove that you are Logi Suho! You just have to show her!"

"...What?"

Upon realizing what she said, Amane covered her mouth. 

"Show her what, Amane?"

"Forget what I said!"

"Amane!!"

Their loud argument attracted the attention of the Blade Fox, who got out of the cabin to check on them. 

"Hey, keep it down."

To their surprise, Logi turned to the rest with a scowl. 

"Do I have to prove that I am Logi Suho?"

They froze, understanding what had happened. Azami stared at Amane, who in turn looked away in shame. 

"We should have told you earlier."

Tanosuke spoke in an apologetic tone. 

"Really?"

Crossing her arms at his sarcastic remark, Azami took her turn to speak.

"Would you have joined us if we told you that you had to prove yourself in front of the queen?"

"Of course not! I am not willing to lie to achieve my goal!"

"You used Kagutsuchi. That isn't a lie."

"What about everything else?"

Azami paused.

"You didn't even know I was capable of using Kagutsuchi."

"Neither did you."

Logi was taken aback by Amane's response, looking away after that. Tanosuke approached him, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"You are right. We should have been honest with you, but to tell you the truth... We were not sure you'd comply after learning of our plan."

Logi huffed.

"I wholeheartedly believe that you will earn the queen's trust."

"And how will I able to pull that off?"

"You see, I and Ugachi used to be part of the royal military. You say you have holes in your memory? We can help you fill in the blanks."

Defeated, he sighed. 

"Fine. I request your assistance."

The Blade Fox exchanged a glance, with Amane and Tanosuke grinning. 

"I will get the documents."

"Let me help you, captain Ugachi."

Nodding, Azami and Ugachi retreated to the cabin, leaving Logi alone with the rest. 

"Well, where do we begin?"

"I have a question."

"Go ahead, young man."

Logi hesitated for a moment, making Amane wonder what was on his mind. 

"Do you know... my birthday?"

Both seemed to pause for a bit. 

"Oh, that's an easy question! My boy, you were born in a silver storm."

"Silver storm... I was born on a snowy day?"

"Yes, I remember it well. You were born on January 11, in the castle of Suho."

"And how was I like?"

Captain and pupil exchanged looks, making him lower an eyebrow. 

"What?"

"Do you want us to be honest with you?"

"Yes."

"Really?"

"Now you are pushing it."

The smirks on their faces put Logi on the spot. Seconds later, Tanosuke answered with a chuckle. 

"You were a menace to the palace staff."

His baffled expression made Amane giggle. 

"Was I wild?"

"To say you were wild is an understatement. Stealing food from the kitchen, scaring the dancers during celebrations, getting guests to argue with each other..."

"I... did all of that?"

"Ugachi once said you were the embodiment of chaos itself."

His face went red with embarrassment.

"So I was a brat?"

"That's not true!"

Logi and Tanosuke had their attention on Amane, who stepped back. 

"I mean... You were a troublemaker, but that was one side of you."

Logi was surprised to hear what Amane had said. He took notice of Amane blushing, playing with her hair. Before he could ask her for more information, Ugachi came out of the cabin with Azami in tow, placing down a heavy chest. Logi raised a brow.

"A chest?"

Ugachi glanced at him briefly before setting his gaze on the other two. Azami opened the chest, taking out scrolls and charts and handing some of them over to her captain.

"Logi, I hope you are prepared. There is a lot of information you need to learn."

"Is it about my family history?" 

Azami glanced at Ugachi for a moment, then looked back at Logi.

"That, and much more."

At this moment, Logi felt nervous. From what he could see, there was a lot of information he had to learn. Or remember? Would he be able to remember anything?

"This is a good start."

Ugachi opened one of the scrolls he was holding, detailing the history of the Suho family. 

"The Suho family was founded by Mitsuha Suho, the first ruler of Wadatsumi. Under her rule, humans and ogres came together for a short period of time."

"Oh."

"Eventually, that time of peace was disrupted and the conflict continued for many centuries to come."

Logi gazed at the picture of his ancestor with somberness. Ugachi ran his finger down, showing a picture of another woman. 

"Despite the internal conflicts, Wadatsumi was in a calm state. Until Greed Dike declared an attack on Wadatsumi. This happened under the rule of queen Kagura's mother."

"My grandmother's mother? My... great-grandmother?"

"That's correct. Unfortunately, she didn't survive the attack."

"And my grandmother?"

"She was rescued by the organization that holds absolute justice on the continent of Babel, the Holy Guard."

"That Holy Guard?! Does that mean-"

Azami interrupted him.

"Yes. The former queen used to be part of the Holy Guard."

"Whoa..."

"Surprised?"

"Of course I am!"

The girls giggled at his reaction. Feeling embarrassed, he turned to face Ugachi. 

"Is my grandmother still a member of the Holy Guard?"

"She left her position in the Holy Guard a few years before rising to the throne."

"Before that, she married your grandfather, who was from Envylia."

Tanosuke chimed in with a grin, the words surprising the young man. 

"Really?"

"Of course. His name was..."

Tanosuke was in thought, rubbing his chin. Narrowing her eyes, Azami spoke to him. 

"Captain Tanosuke, how can you not remember such important information?"

"Does the first vice-captain remember?"

"Of course! His name was... um..."

Embarrassed, she turned to Ugachi, who looked away in shame. 

"Captain, you as well?"

Ugachi didn't respond. Surprised to see them stumped, Amane directed her question to the Blade Fox.

"No one remembers the name of the former queen's husband?"

All three of them responded to her at once. 

"Do you?"

"Ah... No."

She chuckled nervously, scratching her head. Suddenly Logi shouted. 

"Bud Crowley!"

The Blade Fox exchanged baffled looks. Regaining his composure a bit, Tanosuke spoke to them. 

"Did anyone tell him that earlier?"

Amane was the one to answer.

"Nope!"

"Come to think of it, doesn't he call himself Logi Crowley?"

In response to Azami's question, they turned to Logi with wide eyes. Logi tilted his head to the side in confusion.

"What?"

He saw the girls and the second captain chuckle nervously, confusing him even more. Ugachi stared at him briefly before speaking to him. 

"Let's continue with your lesson. We don't have time to waste."

Chapter Text

Amane got out of the cabin, munching on a rice ball. She raised her head, surprised to see Logi on the deck.

"Out on the deck again?"

He looked over his shoulder, a faint blush appearing on her face when their eyes met.

"Come closer and you will see."

Doing as she was told, she got to his side and turned to the sea. Her eyes went wide with wonder; the sun was setting and the sky had turned to a beautiful golden color as a result. 

"Wow!"

"Breathtaking, isn't it?"

"Yes!"

Both gazed at the sunset, with Amane occasionally taking bites out of the rice ball.

"Were we close?"

She stopped eating, turning to face Logi.

"Huh?"

"When I called myself a brat..."

He turned to face her.

"You said that I was not."

Her dark blue eyes were on the floor. To Logi's surprise, she extended her half-eaten rice ball.

"This was our first meeting."

"The rice ball...?"

"I remember sneaking to the kitchen to grab food."

A younger Amane had opened a panel on the wall, grinning upon seeing no one present in the kitchen. She got out, inspecting the counters. 

"Eh? None of the cooks have prepared anything yet!"

She heard a thump, making her shriek. She turned, seeing a shadow on the other side of the counter. Crawling with caution, she peeked out, gasping.

"The prince!"

A young boy panicked upon hearing her voice, dropping something. It rolled over to Amane, who grabbed the item to inspect it.

"A rice ball?"

Her eyes were met with the blue eyes of the young prince. She noticed he was holding several rice balls in his arms. 

"Uh..."

"Don't tell my dad and mom..."

Before she could respond, they heard voices coming to the kitchen. Both panicked. 

"Prince, I know a way."

He was reluctant at first, but followed her upon seeing shadows come closer to the kitchen. Amane opened the panel, both her and the boy climbing inside. They walked through the passage in silence. Seeing a dead end, Amane pushed the panel, letting them out in the servant quarters. 

"That was close!"

She sighed in relief, looking over at the prince. To her surprise, he handed over a rice ball to her.

"Thanks... for saving me."

She looked at it in confusion.

"If one isn't enough... I can share the rest of the rice balls with you."

"...Really?"

He nodded, making her yell in excitement.

"Yay!"

To her surprise, Logi snorted, then burst into laughter. 

"What's so funny?"

"It's hilarious that our love for food brought us together."

She thought about his statement for a moment, laughing with him afterwards. 

"That's true."

They stopped laughing, finding their eyes were locked. Both stood like that, gazing at each other for a short time. Realizing what they were doing, they looked away in embarrassment. 

"I was wondering..."

Amane turned at the sound of Logi's voice, seeing him do the same. 

"How come you lived in the palace?"

She looked down. Seeing this, Logi was about to apologize, but was stopped by Amane speaking. 

"We are quite similar."

"Huh?"

"I remember waking up inside of a well. I don't how or why I was there, but since ogres had attacked the village I used to live in... I guess I was hiding, but hit my head in the process."

"You also...?"

"I don't remember my parents or my childhood prior to the attack. It feels like someone erased my memories of it all."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be."

"...Then what?"

"Azami found me. Ogres had taken out her family as well. We tried hiding, but Discarnate Power found us."

"Discarnate Power?"

"Yes. We were hopeless, but then..."

He noticed her smile was warm and her eyes softened. 

"Your mother, Celis, rescued us."

"My mother..."

"She was so cool! She took it out with a single blow! But Discarnate Power retreated..."

He was silent, thinking about what he had learned of his family. 

"Logi?"

"Oh, it's nothing. So, my mother saved you from certain death and adopted you both?"

"Not adopted exactly, but she was like a mother to us. Thanks to Celis, me and Azami wouldn't have lived to see another day."

"I see... She sounds like a good person."

"And she was. You had a wonderful mother."

He sighed, looking up at the sky that was slowly turning dark. 

"Hey. Get back inside, Amane, Logi."

They turned to see Azami, who peeked her head out of the cabin door. 

"Eh? Isn't it early to sleep?"

"No complaints, Amane."

Amane pouted, but turned to see Logi chuckle. 

"You two really are like sisters."

She looked away in embarrassment. 

...

The evening turned to night. The crew were looking around the cabin. 

"It's a bit tight, but we have to bear with it."

Tanosuke chuckled nervously. Amane pointed at the futons. 

"There are four futons."

"Then I'll sleep on the floor."

Logi's response was met with the eyes of the girls, which were wide like saucers. He eyed them with confusion. 

"What?"

"That is not happening."

Tanosuke put a hand on Logi's shoulder. 

"The queen would not forgive us if she heard you slept on the floor."

"But that would leave one of us without a bed."

Without saying a word, Ugachi grabbed some blankets, putting one down and sitting on it. 

"Problem solved."

"You didn't have to."

Ugachi glanced at Logi. 

"Jubei would kill me for not taking care of you properly."

"Jubei?"

"A relative of mine, and a direct descendant of the Kuroto."

"Ah, one of the noble families that supports the Suho."

Ugachi had a small grin at his answer. 

"You learn fast. Jubei is currently serving lady Kagura."

"Ah..."

"She will be the one to take you into questioning. For everyone's sake, I hope you are prepared."

With those words, he laid down and closed his eyes. 

"Well, we should take a rest too. Come, children."

They got to their futons. As Amane placed the blanket on herself, something fell out of her pocket, which was noticed by Logi. Extending his hand, he managed to grab the item. 

"Hm?"

Amane turned, surprised. 

"Oh..."

"Is it yours?"

She shook her head. 

"Actually, it belonged to you. It's an emblem."

He stared at the item, wondering. 

"Is it?"

"What do you mean?"

"I think it's something else. Something special, like..."

He laughed. 

"Is it possible?"

"It could be."

Glancing at one another, they chuckled. Azami gazed at the duo for a moment before grabbing their attention. 

"It's nice to see you get along, but now it's not the time."

"Suuure."

She glared at Amane briefly before throwing the blanket on top of her own body. 

"Good night."

Logi handed over the emblem to Amane, who was surprised. 

"Logi?"

"I don't feel... ready. Can you keep it for me until then?"

"...I understand."

"Well, good night Amane."

"Good night, Logi."

His eyelids fell heavy, sleep taking over his body and mind. It was going to be a quiet night. Well...

The Spirit Stone Mikaboshi, tucked away in Amane's pocket, glowed faintly. The light disturbed Logi, who turned to the other side. Suddenly, with his eyes closed, he got up. The blanket fell off him as he started to walk to the door. 

...

"Mnggh..."

Small sun rays had fallen on his face, prompting him to open his eyes. He was in a forest, the sun fighting to get through the trees. He raised his hand, his blue eyes widening in surprise. It was much smaller than usual. Logi looked at himself; his body had shrunk to child size. What was happening? And where was he?

"Logi?"

He looked around, seeing two children looking for him. 

"Dias...? Agatha...?"

It was a whisper, but the children somehow heard it. The girl sighed in relief, running to his side. 

"Sheesh, don't leave us like that! I was worried!"

The boy got to him with a smirk. 

"Dozing off in the forest? Not very smart of you, Logi."

"I-I felt sleepy!"

"It does not excuse your poor decision."

Logi grumbled in return. 

"Cut it out, both of you. Let's go, mother and father are waiting."

"Coming."

The children started walking out of the forest. Yet Logi was walking with some difficulty. 

...

The vessel was swaying thanks to a strong gust of wind. With his eyes closed, Logi walked out of the cabin, wobbling due to the wind and the moving vessel. He was going to the upper deck, his head peeking over the black ocean. A smile appeared on his face.

...

The forest gave way to the castle yard. A man and a woman were on the yard, preparing a table. The woman turned, smiling at the children. 

"There you are!"

A smile appeared on Logi's face. 

"Mom, what are you doing?"

"I have prepared my special dish."

"Meatballs!"

The boys hurried to the table, making the woman laugh. 

"Slow down!"

The girl joined her brothers. Their eyes sparkled with joy at the food. 

"It looks delicious!"

"Well, now that all the family is gathered..."

The man sat down. The family folded their hands together. 

"Let's enjoy the meal!"

...

Amane turned, opening an eye. She was half-asleep, seeing Logi's empty futon. All the sleep she had left her body, waking up with a jolt. 

"Logi..."

"Amane... Go back to sleep..."

Azami spoke with grogginess. Amane hurried to her futon. 

"Azami! Logi isn't here!"

"He's probably out in the deck."

Before Amane could respond, Mikaboshi glowed in her pocket, getting the girls' attention. They looked at each other in distress. 

"Oh no!"

They rushed outside, holding onto the beams for support. They looked around, a gasp leaving Amane. He had climbed the deck, holding onto a rope as he looked below. 

"Logi!"

"Amane, we have to act fast!"

"Yes!"

...

Logi made faces to his family, who were laughing. His father scolded him, but found himself smiling at the boy's antics. Logi looked at the forest for a moment, squinting his eyes. Taking notice of this, his sister called out. 

"Logi?"

"W-Who is that?"

A shadow. A shadow of a person he didn't recognize. The person came closer, the smiles of his parents and siblings vanishing instantly. 

"Logi... Run."

The scenery changed to the boy standing at the edge of a cliff, the person standing just a few meters away from the boy. His family had disappeared into thin air, leaving him alone. 

...

"Don't jump!"

Amane had climbed the deck, approaching Logi slowly so she didn't lose her balance and fall. Once she was close enough, Azami reached her and extended her hand.

"Hold on to my hand. Grab his arm with all of your strength."

"Yes."

It was a big gamble, but it was one she was going to take. If there was a chance of saving him, Amane would do it. 

...

"You will join your family soon enough."

"Please... Don't kill me..."

The person took out his sword, making Logi take a step back. He glanced behind him, seeing the abyss below. A shiver ran down his spine.

"The last of the Suho must die!"

"No!"

His foot slipped, the boy finding himself falling off the cliff. The last thing he could see was the person's mask.

...

"Grab him quick!"

Amane managed to get a good hold of Logi's arm, pulling him back. Azami pulled her with all of her might. All three landed on the deck, both girls groaning from the pain. 

"Logi!"

Amane and Azami rushed to his side. When Amane grabbed his arm, he tried pulling away. 

"No!"

"Wake up!"

Logi jolted awake, terrified. His breathing was uneven. 

"Thank the gods. You were close to committing suicide."

Calming down a little, he looked at the girls. He ran his fingers through his hair. 

"Was I..."

"Yes. You were sleepwalking."

A shiver ran down his spine. They were right; he almost took his own life. 

"I saw..."

"Saw what?"

"A man... He tried to kill me..."

He felt anxious, his hands trembling in fear. To his and Azami's surprise, Amane hugged him. 

"No one will kill you. They can try if they want. But I won't let anyone harm you."

Her hug was comforting. He closed his eyes, wrapping an arm around her. 

"Thank you..."

Azami averted her gaze at the scene. Looking down, she whispered. 

"Amane... You should have stayed away while you could..."

Glancing at the two with pain, she continued. 

"Now you will not have the strength to leave him."

Chapter Text

It was another normal day in Envylia. Inside a manor was a young man with red hair and blue eyes, posing for two women. One of them was writing down while the young man spoke. 

"Grandpa Bud Crowley was the captain of the Blue Flame Guard of Envylia. Agatha was the princess of Wratharis and Dias was-"

"An orphan from Wratharis."

A woman with copper red hair finished the sentence, staring intently at the man. 

"You have done your research."

"Your Grace, I assure you-"

"I have heard enough."

She gestured to the other woman, who went to the young man's side. 

"Thank you, but your business here is done."

"Wait, I have-"

The woman escorted him outside, closing the door behind her. Sighing, she went back to the other woman. 

"My deepest apologies, lady Kagura."

Kagura put a hand on her forehead. 

"I cannot take it anymore, Jubei. I am at my wits' end."

"I promise you I will ask harder questions next time."

Kagura glanced at a photo of her grandson, brushing the frame with her fingertips before placing it face down. 

"There is no next time."

Jubei was taken aback. 

"I will drop the announcement tomorrow. Until then, I will see no more young men claiming to be Logi."

"Lady Kagura-"

"It's an order."

"...Understood."

Kagura stood up, leaving the study. Jubei watched as she left, feeling deeply saddened. 

"Lord Zeke, lady Celis... Forgive me for not saving the young prince."

Jubei was not the only one feeling guilty about the past. Kagura, now in her room, sat on the bed. Her amber eyes were on a large portrait of her and her late husband. 

"Bud..."

"Give it up. You won't be able to do it."

Kagura was scolding a young man with brown hair and blue eyes, who turned with a scowl. 

"I can do it, no matter how long it takes."

"You are dense! Bud, you cannot use the art of Kagutsuchi! You do not possess my family's blood!"

Bud swung his sword. After a small pause, he turned to face Kagura. 

"I know that!"

"If you did, you wouldn't stick your nose where it doesn't belong!"

"Hey! This is serious! I am thinking of us here!"

"Huh...?"

He sighed, placing the sword down gently. 

"I have seen how worried you were that Zeke cannot learn Kagutsuchi the way you did. He is skilled with the sword, but not with magic."

"That I am aware."

"But please rely on me! I hate to see you take all this burden on your shoulders! Zeke is our son after all! I do not have the blood of Suho, but I will help you in any way I can!"

He picked up the sword, practicing again.

"So I won't give up! I will learn Kagutsuchi with this blade!"

"Bud..."

Small tears welled in her eyes, threatening to fall. 

"I thought you would never catch up with me..."

She wiped the small tears away, biting her quivering lip. 

"But you never gave up, even at the last moment of your life... You were much stronger than I will ever be."

She covered her face, crying in silence. 

...

"We are sorry."

Azami and Amane were before their captains, their heads hanging low in shame. Ugachi eyed them sternly.

"What is your excuse?"

"We wanted to save him without wasting time."

Ugachi stared at his disciple.

"Answer me this, Azami."

"Yes."

"If you or that rookie did a wrong move, would you forgive yourselves?"

"...No."

Silence fell on the cabin for a short time. Tanosuke sighed. 

"What is done is done. Do not attempt this again. Do you understand?"

"Yes."

Amane left the Blade Fox, going to Logi. She noticed he was sulking. 

"Logi?"

"I'm really sorry."

"Sorry for what?"

"Both of you got in trouble because of me."

She stared at him for a few seconds, bursting into laughter. 

"What's so funny?"

"You haven't changed at all."

"...Really?"

"Yes. What happened yesterday wasn't your fault. Mikaboshi..."

She lowered her head. 

"Mikaboshi has collected the corruption that dwells in Wadatsumi for 10 years. It affects everyone, especially those who have been through a lot."

Logi lowered his head too.

"But things will change for the better. You will get to meet the queen soon."

Logi perked his head up at the mention of his supposed grandmother, a chill running through him. The moment he would get to see her was closing in fast. Suddenly he squinted his eyes, seeing the layout of a city coming into view. 

"Hey, do you see that?"

"What?"

Both were left in wonder at the sight as it became clearer. 

"Is that..."

"They have to see this! Azami!"

Amane ran to get the others, leaving Logi to gaze the city of Envylia. 

"So this is Envylia. My... home..."

...

In the cave, Judius gritted his teeth.

"Even that cursed stone Mikaboshi couldn't kill him! Why can't I destroy this variable?!"

He clenched his fist, seething. Then, he had a moment of clarity.

"Maybe... I have to kill him myself. Yes, that's right."

A sinister smile spread across his face.

"It has been a while since I last saw Envylia. I should go see it one last time before I get rid of the last Suho."

Judius let out a malicious chuckle, excited to bury his enemy in the kingdom of Envylia. He left to prepare himself and put his plan into motion. 

Chapter Text

The vessel stopped at the port. The Blade Fox got down with their belongings, looking around the city.

"I admit, I didn't expect Envylia to be this mesmerizing. What do you think, Ugachi?"

"...I do not disagree. Hey, don't gawk at people. You will attract attention."

Ugachi addressed Amane, the latter turning with a frown.

"I was not gawking."

"Captain Ugachi has a point."

"But Azami-"

"Don't."

"Humph."

Amane turned to look the other way, crossing her arms in frustration. Azami leaned closer to her, whispering.

"We can look around and explore the kingdom once we are done with our task."

Amane's face lit up as she raised her fists in excitement. Tanosuke chuckled at his disciple, turning to Logi afterward.

"Logi-"

He paused, seeing the young man stare at the surroundings with longing. Tanosuke didn't disturb him, giving him time to sort his thoughts. 

"The former queen's manor is in that direction."

Everyone looked at where Ugachi was pointing, seeing the path that would lead them to Kagura's manor. 

"Let's not keep her waiting."

...

Hearing knocks, Jubei went to open the door. She gasped upon seeing the people standing outside.

"Ugachi? But you..."

"I am glad to see you well, Jubei."

Still in shock, she looked at the others, with Tanosuke waving at Jubei.

"Long time no see."

She blinked a few times, trying to make sense of what she was seeing.

"How?"

"Long story. But we have come here for something very important."

"That much is a given, since you left Wadatsumi unscathed. Let's discuss it inside."

Jubei let the entire group in. The girls were looking around with curiosity, but Logi was very nervous. They made their way to the living room.

"Well, what exactly brought you here?"

Ugachi and Tanosuke exchanged glances, the former responding to her question.

"We want to speak to the queen about the state Wadatsumi is in, and..."

Ugachi extended his arm, directing Jubei's attention to someone else. 

"...to bring Logi Suho to her."

Logi stepped forward, bowing his head in respect. 

"It's a pleasure to meet you in person, Jubei Kuroto."

She gasped, taking a moment to process the situation at hand.

"In the name of the gods! You certainly look like him! But so did many of the others."

Everyone were taken aback by Jubei's statement. Tanosuke lowered an eyebrow in disbelief. 

"All of them?"

"Some came quite close to Logi Suho."

Ugachi eyed Jubei with a solemn look.

"I assure you, he is the real one."

Jubei stood still for a bit.

"I am inclined to believe you. If you out of all people think this boy is the one, then there must be some truth to that belief. Still..."

Jubei's eyes were now on Logi. 

"I will put you to the test."

"Of course."

Satisfied with Logi's response, Jubei grabbed some paper and a pen. Her eyes were on the young man.

"So tell me, where were you born?"

"At the castle of Suho."

"Correct. And who was your family?"

"My father was Zeke Suho. Celis was my mother and my younger siblings were Dias and Agatha."

Jubei nodded in approval.

"Speaking of your siblings, do you know where they came from?"

"Both were from Wratharis. Agatha was the princess of Wratharis and Dias was an orphan. My father adopted them a while after I was born."

"Very good."

The questioning continued, and the Blade Fox were on edge. Logi answered the questions calmly, bringing them a sense of ease. 

"And your grandmother Kagura was close with which member of the Holy Guard?"

"Kanon, who later became the lord commander, and Kudanstein, the captain of the fourth regiment and the person that saved her from Greed Dike's conquest."

"Mhm. Moving on."

Several minutes passed, and it was midday. During the questioning, Jubei wrote down on the paper, glancing at Logi from time to time. 

"Well, young man, your answers have been correct this far. Allow me to ask you one more question."

"You may."

"This may be tough, but indulge me. How did you escape the palace siege?"

The Blade Fox exchange a nervous look. It was obvious they never briefed Logi on this one. They were all tense, but Logi didn't seem to share the same sentiment. Instead, he was silent for a moment, furrowing his brows for a moment before answering.

"I remember... I was in a room... My grandmother was there too. We were looking for an escape, then... A girl, working in the castle, appeared from the floor..."

Amane perked her head up in shock. The girl he spoke of, it was her. The one to save him that night was her. He remembers, she thought. Then, realizing what he said, Logi shook his head.

"I'm sorry, that's a crazy thing to say."

Jubei gazed at him for a moment, then her lips curled to a smile.

"Your answer lines up with the queen's experience. It seems there is no more room for doubt."

Logi and the others looked at her with surprise. Tanosuke spoke after a long time.

"So, is he the one?"

"He did answer every question. But..."

She glanced at Ugachi, who nodded.

"See it for yourself."

"Very well. Logi, come with me for a moment."

He nodded, following the woman to a training room. The others, knowing what was about to unfold, followed the duo. Soon, Jubei and Logi were in the training ground, facing each other while the others stood in the sidelines with bated breath. Jubei unsheathed her twin swords, staring down at Logi.

"Give it your best, Logi. Show me you are the real one."

Without a word, he unsheathed his own sword. After a short pause, both engaged in battle. Jubei was fierce, showing her prowess. As she was about to deliver a blow, to her astonishment, Logi countered with the sacred art of Kagutsuchi. The large phoenix manifested, striking at Jubei, who had very little time to react. Her body trembled as the shock had her fall to her knees. Logi sheathed his sword, rushing to her side.

"I'm so sorry! Are you alright?"

To his surprise, he was met with a warm smile and glassy eyes with unshed tears. 

"Indeed, you are Logi Suho. You have grown so much."

She stood up, her fierce gaze from before replaced with a kind one. 

"If lord Zeke and lady Celis were still around, they would be proud of you."

"Jubei..."

Amane left her fellow members, rushing to them with excitement.

"When do we get to see the queen?"

Jubei's smile vanished.

"I’m afraid you don’t."

The rest of the Blade Fox were surprised, including Logi and Amane. Azami spoke, getting closer to Amane.

"Why is that?"

"I told you before. Many others came before master Logi and pretended to be him. The queen has lost faith."

The captains looked at each other, trying to formulate a plan. Tanosuke turned to face Jubei. 

"Jubei, there must be a way. Surely you can come up with something."

"You saw it with your own eyes, Jubei. Will you not let the queen see her living grandson?"

Ugachi's words resonated with Jubei, who began to think. Then an idea came to her mind, as she perked her head up.

"I can arrange a meeting."

Everyone looked relieved and hopeful.

"Tonight the national band will be performing Envylia's famous parade. The queen always attends it."

Tanosuke gave the others a knowing look.

"We have an opportunity."

"But what will we do until then?"

Jubei smiled, answering Amane's question.

"Since you came all the way from Wadatsumi, I might as well show you around. You will enjoy it here."

Amane and Logi seemed excited. Ugachi and Azami were silent, and Tanosuke shrugged.

"I see no harm in that."

"Very well."

With those words, Jubei opened the door of the training room, urging them to follow as they left the area.

Chapter Text

For the first time in 10 years, Azami let her guard down. Raised in a country of strife, she could finally be herself in the kingdom of Envylia. Along with Amane and their captains not far behind, they were exploring the marketplace, amazed by the culture. The citizens were kind and welcoming, and the group of knights that passed through were a sight to behold. 

"Azami! Check this out!" 

Amane grabbed Azami's arm, pulling her with excitement. Azami was about to protest, but the wonders of Envylia left her in awe. She wondered if Wadatsumi would be just as beautiful if it was restored to its former glory. The thought hardened her resolve to have an audience with the former queen. 

"Beautiful, isn't it?"

The girls and their captains turned upon hearing Jubei's voice. Her eyes gleamed as she spoke. Next to her was Logi, who looked much different. The Blade Fox were taken by surprise. Then the girls rushed over to Logi, admiring his new look. 

"Wow! So cool!"

"It really suits you!"

Their comments made him blush, averting his gaze from them. Tanosuke chuckled. 

"You look like a real man, Logi."

"Please don't."

Hearing Logi's response, Jubei got closer to the young man. 

"Don't be ashamed. You need to be on your best appearance before the queen."

"I know..." 

The group explored the kingdom for some time, until dusk arrived. Many people gathered to the city center, excited to see the parade. The Blade Fox took their seats. Logi's blue eyes were on the crowd, trying to find the former queen among them. Then he found her on the private seats; Kagura Suho. Despite her age, she was beautiful, her copper red hair tied to a bun. Jubei stood beside her, nodding slightly upon seeing Logi. The young man was nervous. 

"Gods, please... Let her remember me..."

Amane, who sat beside him, heard his quiet prayer, looking down. She wanted Logi to be reunited with his grandmother, but at the same time... She wished he could stay with them, with her. But I cannot get in his way, she thought. 

On the other side, Kagura watched the parade with a heavy heart. She used to watch it along with her late husband, but now she found no joy in the parade. The past weighed heavy on her shoulders. For a moment, her amber eyes were on the audience, meeting with Logi's blue ones. Both had their eyes wide, standing still for a second. 

Logi had his eyes on his grandmother the entire time, seeing they had no gleam. Only profound sorrow. As her eyes met his, he froze in place. Yet his expression turned to that of disappointment when she looked away. 

Kagura couldn't believe what she was seeing. Who was he? A figment of her imagination? Someone else resembling her beloved grandson? Or... 

Was he the real deal? 

But her surprise turned to bitterness, refusing to entertain the idea that the young man was her long lost grandson. She continued to watch Envylia's march, her heart still pounding on her chest. Jubei noticed the queen's distress, looking away. She prayed silently, hoping that Kagura could finally be happy. 

The parade lasted for an hour, the event finished with a bang. The people, content with the show, left their seats and began walking away. The Blade Fox did the same, waiting for Jubei to give them instructions. And so she did, approaching them.

"Come. This is our chance."

Approaching the private seats, Jubei gestured for Ugachi and Tanosuke to follow her, while their pupils and Logi stayed behind. Azami took notice of Logi's nervousness, placing a hand on his shoulder. 

"Hold your head high. They will convince her."

"...Thank you. I will be forever grateful."

The girls smiled. With the door closed behind them, the captains and Jubei walked to Kagura, who turned her head. 

"Lady Kagura, they want to have an audience with you."

She observed them from head to toe, seeing them with clothing reminiscent of Wadatsumi warriors. 

"I remember you. Former generals of the military, correct?"

Ugachi nodded, choosing his words carefully.

"Your Grace, we have a request."

Before he could elaborate, Kagura raised a hand. 

"If you are here, that means only one thing. You want my assistance to free Wadatsumi from Greed Dike's control."

They glanced at each other, nodding in agreement. 

"We would appreciate it."

Tanosuke replied, seeing Kagura standing firm. 

"I will never abandon my country. I have been in negotiations with the Holy Guard. That is all I can do. Now, excuse me."

"Wait. We are not finished."

Kagura was taken aback, seeing the solemn look on Tanosuke's face. 

"Oh? There is more?"

Both knew this moment would decide everything. After a brief moment of silence, Ugachi was brave enough to speak. 

"We have found His Highness, Logi Suho."

Both watched as her expression slowly hardened, her face burning with anger. 

"This I did not expect. You worked under my son, and yet you have the audacity to lie to my face."

Surprised at her reply, Tanosuke rushed to explain. 

"Your Highness, this is not-"

"Are you in it for the money? Or do you have a grudge against me?"

Though they respected the former queen, Ugachi and Tanosuke were not going to let her speak ill of them. 

"We have nothing to win by lying. Your grandson is just beyond this door, waiting for you."

Ugachi's words did not convince her. 

"Ah, so that boy was with you. I'll have you know here and now that I won't see another imposter."

"But Your Highness-"

"End of discussion. Jubei, lead the gentlemen out."

Jubei was torn between Kagura's order and the fact that the real Logi was indeed found. She went close to the Blade Fox captains, speaking in a quiet tone. 

"I'm sorry, but you have to go."

To Jubei's surprise, Ugachi stood his ground. Ignoring her, he went to face Kagura. Her amber eyes narrowed. 

"How many of those imposters could use the sacred art of Kagutsuchi?"

"Mention my family legacy again and I will call the guards."

"He is the real Logi Suho! He can use the royal family's technique!"

Kagura rose from her seat, standing upfront. 

"I've had enough!" 

Before the situation could escalate, Jubei stood between Kagura and Ugachi, pulling him away. 

"I have this under control, my lady. I will escort them out."

"Please do. I don't want to hear any more lies."

...

The trio could hear Ugachi and Tanosuke speak with the queen. As their voices became louder, the anticipation turned to worry.

"This is not going well."

Azami was confident that the captains would convince the former queen to meet Logi, but her resolve faltered. Then, Logi froze when Kagura called him an imposter. He felt his heart squeeze, deeply hurt by her words. He walked back slightly, trying to process what he heard. The girls turned to see his reaction. 

"Logi?"

Amane was worried for him more thanks to Kagura's words. 

"She doesn't want me..."

"Don't say that."

"But you heard her. I'm just a pretender to her."

"But she doesn't know what we know."

"That doesn't matter. She has made her decision."

"Logi, you-"

Amane was cut off by Azami grabbing her arm.

"This isn't the time to argue."

But Amane pulled her own arm away with enough force, breaking the grip Azami had on Amane.

"No!"

She turned to Logi, her face red with anger.

"You have come this far! You can't give up now!"

"It's hopeless! I lost my last chance! It's over!"

Amane took a step back, surprised at Logi's demeanor. She didn't remember him being broken like this.

"You're a coward!"

Logi froze, the words cutting through his like a knife. He had no words. After collecting himself for a bit, he turned and walked away, slumping his shoulders. Realizing how hurtful her words were, Amane tried to follow him, but Azami stopped her.

"Don't. It might make things worse."

Amane sighed in regret. She hoped that it wasn't too late to mend her relationship with Logi.

Chapter Text

Defeated, the captains walked away from the private seats, approaching their disciples. Yet they took notice of someone missing. 

"Where is Logi?"

When Tanosuke asked that question, the girls looked down. Their silent reaction was enough for Ugachi and Tanosuke to understand what happened. Then all of them turned when they heard the door to the private seats open, seeing the queen. Her eyes met theirs for a brief moment, but immediately averted her gaze. Amane clenched her fists, feeling helpless. If she wanted the family to reunite, she had to act fast. To the surprise of Blade Fox, she rushed to the queen, blocking her path. Kagura glared at her. 

"Step aside."

Her voice was low, but curt. But this didn't deter Amane. 

"No! I won't leave until you listen!"

"I won't fall for lies again."

"This isn't a lie! If you go and talk to him, you will see the truth!"

Kagura's eyes narrowed. She raised her hand, about to signal her guards to take Amane away. The Blade Fox were ready to intervene. Amane, not wanting this opportunity to escape her grasp, remembered something important. She took out the emblem, making Kagura pause. 

"Do you remember this?"

For a moment, her cold, harsh exterior gave way to the queen's vulnerable side. Yet, she remained wary. 

"Where... Where did you get that?"

"When you see him, give it to him."

Kagura's mind was a whirlwind of emotions, clashing all at once. The emblem brought her so many happy memories, all fleeting in the winds of time. 

"You will stop at nothing, will you?"

With a small smile, Amane replied. 

"I am bad at giving up."

Kagura approached her, taking the emblem from her hands. With a sigh, she turned to Amane and the rest. 

"Fine. I will give you one more chance. But if this turns out to be another ploy, you won't see the last of me."

They all looked at each other, knowing the truth to the situation at hand. Thanks to Amane's stubbornness, they had one more chance to set things right. 

...

At the hotel, Logi was packing to leave Envylia. Believing he lost everything, he wanted nothing more but to return to Wadatsumi. The door was left ajar, letting anyone who would pass by peek inside. And this is what Kagura did. With her heart pounding, she raised her hand and knocked on the door. Logi stopped, shaking his head slightly before responding without turning his head. 

"I don't want to see you right now."

"That is rude to say to a guest."

Surprised to hear the voice, he turned, his eyes wide with surprise. 

"I'm really sorry. I thought you were..."

"Someone else, right?"

She walked inside, observing the hotel room before her amber eyes set on Logi. 

"Your friends insist you are my grandson. Is that true?"

He was a deer in the headlights. Should he say yes, even if he can't fully remember everything? Or should he say no, and drive her away from him forever?

"I... I'm Logi Crowley. I do not remember my home or my family."

He noticed her eyebrow twitch, wondering if something that he said angered her. 

"And? You have my sympathy, but that's it."

He stood silent for a bit before responding, choosing his words carefully. 

"But I am certain that my family is here. Maybe... you might be the family I have been looking for."

"Ah, so you think that way. You are a really good actor, boy."

"You may not believe me, but this is the truth. I have no intention to lie to you."

"Really? The money does not interest you?"

"I never wanted the reward. All I wish is to find a place to belong."

A place to belong... She felt that way for a long time. Kagura could empathize with his plight, but the years of lies and deceit had made her lose trust in everyone. 

"That is sad to hear. I wish you find what you are looking for, but I am not the one you seek. Have a good life."

His eyes softened, her words cutting him deep. Disappointed, Kagura turned and was ready to walk away. Then Logi caught sight of something that he never thought he would see again. 

Sitting on top of her bun was a cute little trinket. His blue eyes inspected it from afar. 

"That trinket..."

Kagura stopped in her tracks, glancing at the young man. 

"It's a cheap trinket."

"But it means a lot to you, doesn't it? It was a gift from grandpa, after all."

His words struck a chord in her. Baffled, she turned to face Logi. For the first time in forever, she felt hope. Logi was just as surprised as her by his own words, yet strangely, it felt familiar. 

"You wore it a lot after that. I remember taking it from you and almost lost it. You reprimanded me for that, and since then I was more mindful of my personal belongings."

Kagura slowly approached him, her bitter expression turned to that of curiosity. Logi, starting to remember so much at once, sat down, placing a hand on his forehead. He could feel a dull headache slowly setting in. Kagura sat beside him, her eyes never leaving his. A ribbon tied to his wrist caught her eye. 

"What is that?"

"Oh, this? It's something I always had."

"...May I?"

Logi was hesitant, but swallowed his fear and untied the ribbon, handing it over to Kagura. Her eyes began to well with tears upon seeing the engraved message. 

"Oh... This was our treasure. Mine and his."

With tears streaming down her face, she took out the emblem, her eyes locked with his. She hoped he would remember her gift. 

"The emblem..."

His words made her heart jump in joy. With trembling hands, Logi took the ribbon and the emblem, joining them together. 

They formed a medallion. Kagura's parting gift to him so many years ago. 

Small tears welled up in his eyes, streaming down his face. He was able to remember everything; his family, his childhood and his beloved grandma. Their eyes locked, both crying from joy. Kagura gently placed a hand on his cheek. 

"I'm home, grandma."

That was all she needed to hear. She pulled him in her embrace, her grip tightening. Logi welcomed it, feeling much needed relief.

"Oh, Logi! My Logi!"

It was over. The journey, fraught with obstacles, was finally over. Kagura and Logi, grandmother and grandson, were finally together. 

Further away from the room, at the edge of the corridor, were the Blade Fox, who had heard everything. They were satisfied with the outcome, content that their mission was complete. 

"We did a great job. How about we celebrate it with a feast?"

"Awesome!"

Amane was excited at Tanosuke's suggestion, but Azami was skeptical. 

"That's hard to do in a country we barely know."

Then, right on cue, Jubei approached them with a small smile on her face.

"I know a good place. Tonight it's on me."

No one protested. One by one, they left the hotel, leaving the reunited family alone. Inside the room, Kagura pulled away from the hug, glancing at Logi's luggage before standing up.

"Pack your belongings."

"Huh? Where are we going?"

With a warm smile, she gazed at her grandson before answering his question.

"I seem to recall your wish to visit grandpa's manor."

The wonder and excitement in his blue eyes made her heart swell with nostalgia. How much she missed seeing her grandson be truly happy.

"You mean it?"

"Of course. Besides, we have so much to talk about."

Chapter Text

Logi and Kagura were in the living room of the manor, an open box sitting on her lap. Logi's eyes were on a family portrait. His, specifically. A lone tear ran down his cheek, his heart swollen with sadness. Seeing this, Kagura smiled warmly, gently wiping the tear. 

"I remember them... We used to be so happy."

"None of them would want us to live in the past, especially now that we have found each other."

He turned, his smile as warm as hers as he nodded. She pulled her hand away and into the box, showing Logi a few dried four leaf clovers. 

"Look. Do you remember?"

"Yes! Dias made me so mad! He said it was a lame gift!"

As he voiced his annoyance however, he laughed. 

"But in hindsight, I should have picked a better gift."

"Oh, Logi. You haven't changed at all."

She took his hand in hers, squeezing it tight. 

"It may be a simple gift, but I still remember your words."

His lips curled to a smile, remembering the exact words. 

"I want grandma to be as lucky as I am."

"Exactly. When I heard those words come out of your mouth, I knew I was blessed with a wonderful grandson. No material gift will ever bring me joy than the thought behind it."

Logi took notice of the remaining memorabilia, seeing sewn lace shawls and drawings. His mind was flooded with memories of his precious siblings, remembering Agatha sewing various clothes or drawing together with Dias. He instinctively reached for one of the shawls, feeling the lace between his fingers. It was Agatha's handiwork, which was impressive for a girl just entering her tween years. Those were bygone days now, but they had a special place in his heart. 

Kagura placed a hand on his cheek, raising his head so his eyes met hers. Her amber eyes carried nothing but warmth. 

"You must be tired after that long journey. We can catch up tomorrow."

Logi nodded in response, a small smile appearing on his face. She led him out of the living room and into her late husband's bedroom. Later, he was safe and sound under the thick covers, snuggling down as Kagura stroked his red hair gently. 

"I can't believe it. I am home."

He murmured the words, as if he was in a dream. She smiled, still stroking his hair. 

"My child, you don't have to worry. You are truly home." 

Her statement was met with a small, tired smile. Soon, his eyes closed and she stopped stroking his hair, standing up to leave. 

"Good night, Logi."

She walked out quietly to not disturb his sleep. His words that he was home replayed in her head. Kagura herself couldn't still believe her beloved grandchild had found his way to her. Of course, she was happy Logi found her, but it felt so surreal. Years of lies and deception had her lose hope, and both needed time to process their reunion. But all that mattered to her was that Logi was with her. 

She went to her bedroom, sitting down on the bed and gazing at a portrait of herself and Bud. Her eyes became glassy, small tears forming at the corners of her eyes and rolling down her cheeks. 

"He found his way home. I am proud of our grandson."

Staring at the portrait for a bit, she got up and opened a drawer, revealing a dark blue jacket with the coat of arms of Suho. Her mind swirled with thoughts of her friends, their reactions to her grandson being alive and with her. Closing the drawer, she left her bedroom and walked towards the study. There, she turned on a lantern and took out a stack of papers. Grabbing a pen and some ink, she began to write down. Everyone had to know. 

...

The next day, after brunch, Logi was in the living room, surrounded by two tailors. One of the tailors was taking measurements, discussing with his colleague. Kagura sat on her couch watching, while Jubei was running through a list. Jubei was marking down names of guests that had received invitations and replied back. As she crossed another name off the list, Kagura got her attention. 

"Jubei, look."

Her eyes followed the queen's gaze, settling on Logi. Both ladies noticed he was nervous, and his embarrassment flared once he realized their eyes were on him. This made them both giggle, his cheeks growing darker as a result. Then, a young squire entered the room, bowing at Kagura. 

"My lady, the armor you requested is ready."

"Good work. Bring it to me."

As soon as she said those words, the doors opened to reveal the knights of the Blue Flame Guard, with two of them holding parts of a shiny, white armor paired with white boots. Seeing them, in their white and blue uniforms, bearing the insignia of the Blue Flame Guard, made Logi's heart flutter. He had heard stories of the guard from his father and grandmother, and was always fascinated by them no matter how many times those stories were told to him. 

Some of the knights looked at his direction, voicing their thoughts about him. 

"Whoa! He looks a lot like our previous captain."

"Indeed. Maybe Bud's spirit lives on in him."

"It probably runs in the family."

Though they stopped talking when Jubei approached them, gesturing at them to leave. 

"Alright, your job is done. Run along, now."

"What? But we haven't talked to him yet."

"You will when the party starts tonight. Now, go."

Sharing nervous glances among themselves, they walked out of the room. Logi blinked in surprise, not expecting the knights to submit to Jubei this quick. The tailors stopped talking, turning to Kagura.

"Lady Kagura, we are finished taking the measurements."

"How long will it take for the suit to be ready?"

"It will take five hours."

"Excellent. I will see you at afternoon. Jubei?"

"Gentlemen, follow me."

The tailors bowed to Kagura, then followed Jubei out of the living room. Kagura stood up, looking at the white armor and boots. She glanced at Logi, who approached her, then stopped right beside her. His blue eyes were on the armor, then shifted to two articles of clothing; a long, light blue jacket and a dark blue jacket with the symbol of the phoenix, the coat of arms of Suho. 

"The phoenix..."

Without saying a word, Kagura picked up the dark blue jacket and placed it on his shoulders. Logi stiffened, his eyes on the jacket. 

"Look at you."

She turned him to face the mirror, his body relaxing at the sight. Kagura smiled warmly. 

"In your stance, I see my Zeke, your dear father... But in your eyes, I see the kindness of your mother, Celis, the leader of Blade Fox."

His eyes softened. For a moment, all he could see were the images of his parents, smiling at the man he had become.

...

Hours later, Logi was in front of the mirror, his eyes wide with wonder; he was wearing a dark red suit and the white armor and boots delivered by the Blue Flame Guard. The jackets were repurposed and tied to his waist by a belt with a clasp, which was a symbol of Suho. He turned slightly, touching the light blue jacket, a remnant of his mother's time in the military. Jubei was a few meters away from him, clasping her hands in excitement.

"You are dazzling!"

Logi scratched the back of his neck, feeling shy. 

"Master Logi, I have something to give you."

He nodded, taking note of the serious tone in her voice. Jubei opened a large chest, taking out a sword. She went to Logi, and handed over the sword to him. Once it was on his hands, he took the time to look at it; the blade was blood red, and the hilt was pure white, with a red rope tied around it. 

"Wow... The craftmanship is unique. What is this?"

"This is the third national treasure of Wadatsumi, the Treasure Blade Sumeragi."

"Sumeragi? The sword that cuts down ogres?"

"Yes. Before the palace siege, I repaired the old blade. I brought it with me after the tragedy that took place. If the rebels or Greed Dike would take the blade..."

Logi was silent. He knew the story and the role it had to shape the history and culture of Wadatsumi. 

"Why are you giving this to me?"

"I believe you will use it better than me. Besides, the wishes and feelings of those before us... I am inadequate to fulfill them."

"Jubei..."

His grip on the blade tightened, his eyes narrowed with determination.

"I will do it."

...

Meanwhile, the Blade Fox were summoned to Kagura's study. On the desk was an open chest full of zeni. 

"I apologize for not trusting you before. I am deeply grateful for returning my grandson to me. Here's 10 million zeni, as promised."

They looked at each other for a moment. Then Tanosuke spoke. 

"Your Grace, I speak for the Blade Fox. We were never in it for the money."

"Really?"

Ugachi stepped forward.

"We are here only for matters regarding Wadatsumi."

"I see. As you all know, I cannot act directly because of Greed Dike's influence in Wadatsumi. But that does not mean I will stay down. I will help as much as I can."

"We appreciate your cooperation."

"But other than this, is there really nothing else you want?"

Amane slowly raised her head, attempting to say something. However, nothing came out of her mouth. Azami glanced at Amane, her eyes softening. She turned to the queen.

"We don't want anything else." 

"Very well. You are free to go."

They made their leave, expect for Amane, as Kagura called out to her. 

"You, stay."

Amane turned, curious. 

"Me?"

Kagura walked towards her, her amber eyes surveying her.

"What's your name?"

"Amane."

"Amane, where did you get that medallion?"

Amane couldn't answer. It was a simple question, yet she couldn't bring herself to respond.

"You were the girl, weren’t you? The squire girl who got us out. You saved his life, and mine. Then you brought him to me, yet you want no reward?"

"I didn't want any reward. I only wanted to do what was right."

Amane bowed, and turned to leave the study. After she left, Kagura stood still, her eyes softening as she put a hand on her chest. 

As Amane made her way down the stairs, she stopped in her tracks. Logi was at the bottom of the stairs, and before he could take the first step, he stopped once his eyes fell on Amane. They were silent, remembering the way they parted. 

"Hello, Logi."

She felt awkward, and a little guilty for what happened at the parade. 

"Hello, Amane."

Much like her, he too felt awkward at how things ended between them. 

"Did you get the reward?"

Amane walked down the stairs, standing in front of him.

"That was never my goal."

Her dark blue eyes made contact with his. She could feel her heart race. Now that they were together, she could tell him how she really felt about him before leaving Envylia. However... 

"I’m glad you found what you were looking for."

"It was thanks to you and the others. For that, I am very grateful."

She stood there, processing what he said. She slightly turned her head.

"No need to thank me. Well, then…"

She turned to look at him one last time.

"Goodbye."

She went to the door, leaving the manor. Logi stared after her for a moment, softly murmuring to himself.

"Goodbye..."

When Amane got outside, she was met with Azami. 

"The captains are waiting at the port."

Amane nodded in response. Azami, dropping her cool, stoic demeanor for a moment, went to her side and placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Amane, we are sisters. Tell me what's on your mind."

Azami was surprised when Amane turned to see her, her eyes glassy. 

"Azami, I..."

"...You saw him, didn't you?"

Amane nodded, the tears rolling down her cheeks.

"I wanted to tell him how I feel about him... But if I did that..."

Azami was silent. She had always known that her friend, whom she regarded as a sister, had a crush on the prince for a long time. She had discouraged Amane in the past, as she didn't want her to be hurt. But Azami knew well that it was difficult to control love. 

"Amane..."

"I want him to be with the former queen. I want him to be happy. But because of that... I am left alone."

Azami handed her a handkerchief, which Amane used to wipe her tears, but fresh one spilled from her eyes immediately. She held Amane close, who continued to cry her heart out.

"Let it all out, Amane. Like Celis used to say."

"Azami!"

All Azami could do was comfort her little sister the way she knew. She could not help Amane with her predicament, as she thought it would make it worse. Instead, she resolved herself to be the shoulder Amane could lean on in this time of distress. But deep down, she hoped Amane could heal.