Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

A long long time ago, A Goddess named Valisthea created the world filled with abundance, divided the clear skies into day and night, purified the endless void into clear seas and water and lastly living creatures, first being the animals of the sea, the sky, and the land and then human beings, created in her own image. 

Having fulfilled her duty, she saw the world that she created as complete, beautifully and pleasing. Spending all her energy in shaping the world, she began to grow tired and decided to rejuvenate by entering a long and peaceful slumber. 

 But before she did, The Goddess sent her dear children towards the new world in order to help and assist human life in progressing the world as well in learning and  spreading her teachings in respecting one's neighbors, gratitude for nature, and striving for peace.  

With each mission given to her children now, called as the holy emissaries, they descended from the heavens and scattered from different nations as the mission given by their holy goddess was to help and teach the people while the goddess Valisthea entered into a deep slumber.

Each of her children was given a blessing of element bestowed by their holy mother. These elements were water, earth, wind, thunder, ice, dark, light and fire. 

But among her nine children were twins, both brothers close as a sibling yet they shared the same element of fire.

Days after their arrival, the world begun to slowly progress as the goddess’s envoys became the guiding voice for the people. They started to create groups that soon became civilizations, with each group being born under the guidance and headship of one of the holy messengers of the goddess. 

Life was good unto the new world, until a massive skirmish begun towards the twin emissaries of the flame who shared and looked after their people.

This conflict led into a long war between the sons of fire for who shall rule as the one true keeper of flames. 

But this massive war led into fatal casualties: the world had burnt into ground, destroying the once beautiful creation that the goddess Valisthea had worked so hard on.  It was now a devastated wasteland full of ashes and burnt corpses of living beings.

When the goddess awoke and discovered what happened, she grew enraged towards the sons of flame. As punishment for destruction of her world, she transformed them into monstrous beings: the first flame taking the form of a demonic wolf, while the second flame turned into a firebird. 

And thus she banished them to far corners of the mountains of the south with the firebird nestled onto the volcano while the demon wolf-like monster disappeared from the face of the earth.

Looking back to her burnt world that the brothers destroyed, she gathered her remaining emissaries, to whom she gifted them some of her divine powers and transformed them into divine Gods, goddess and beasts.

Appreciated, the divine beings proposed to assist the goddess in restoring the land to its former glory, Valisthea agreed the idea but she knew it will take long time to rebuilt her world.

With one final resort, the goddess expended all of her powers to restore the land and all its living beings into its former state. But then she collapsed as her strength began to wane, because she spent her entire strength in reforming the world again.

The divine gods and goddesses began to grieve, knowing their goddess sacrificed her strength in regaining the world’s restoration and decided to spend their creator's last moments on her created world alongside her.

In gratitude, the dying goddess decided to give them names for their generosity and kindness in looking after her.

She named the divine god of thunder as Ramuh, next she named the divine giant of the earth as Titan; and then she turned towards the divine beast of wind and gave her the name as Garuda; then she look towards the divine dragon of light and towards the gallant knight. She named the former as Bahamut and while the latter she named him as Odin.

But after Valisthea named the large divine serpent - the one she called Leviathan - the goddess noticed the divine maiden of snow and ice was gazing towards the south where the twin sons of fire were banished for their destructive action in decimating the world into ashes. Then she began to silently weep in remorse and pity.

Sensing the deep sorrow resonating within her, the deity called upon the divine ice maiden, who responded and moved closer to the dying goddess.  “My child, why do you weep towards the southern mountains?  Are you crying for the sons of fire who brought destruction to our world?”

The tearful ice maiden nodded.  Placing both hands onto her chest where her heart was, she spoke: “Oh divine lady, I beseech you. Withhold your wrath and animosity towards our banished brethren, for their raging flames and conflict that caused this new world you made into nothing but ashes. Please forgive them.  Without their fire, the world and its people will not survive nor progress. Their presences were the real reason why the people lived, thrived and survived through the harshness of the world’s dangers.

So please, O sacred goddess, I bow before you on my knees. Let go of your grudges towards the sons of fire, for they shall understand the sins they committed and earn redemption in your favor. Please release their guilt and accept them back in your arms, O goddess. I beg of you.”

Moved by sympathy for the divine maiden of ice, the dying goddess weakly took her hand and began to stroke it gently. Looking at the beautiful goddess of winter with sympathy and warmth she began to speak. 

“Shiva, my child of winter, I understand how sorrowful you have become towards the sons of fire. Yet I feel the same, for they are good brothers to one another.  But it makes me wondered, who among them started the destruction and rendered my world into ashes, and what caused them to fight in the first place?"

Though her pondering thoughts would not last for long, the dying goddess knew she won’t last long and had finally made a decision. She removed her hand from the ice maiden’s and then placed it onto her chest where her heart was.

“My child, you shall be the witness towards the sons of flames, through your fair yet sharp eyes and your clear glacial silver tongue.” Letting go of the ice maiden’s chest, the dying goddess looked towards the thunder god Ramuh who was the wisest and most knowledgeable among the divine.

“Lord Ramuh, you shall be the judge between good and evil…for you are the wisest and most knowledgeable amongst your fellow gods. Bring the Judgement towards the sons of the flame and find out the truth, who amongst them carried the flames of rebirth and which carried the flames of destruction and death. You shall judge between them for who was good and who was evil. As well in giving them their names."

Hearing these words, the god of thunder Ramuh bowed his head low in respect to his mother goddess.

“I will be honored to take the role of being the judge towards the world on your behalf divine mother Valisthea” said Ramuh in a proud tone.

After giving away the important duties towards Shiva and Ramuh, The goddess, now on the verge of death, shifted her focus to the remaining seven remaining deities 

“My children I shall leave this world to you, for you shall protect the world from the discord of evil, retain the balance of nature, and guiding the race of humanity to the right path. Fulfilled your duties as the new divine deities to this newly created world for who I shall pass my name once I rest onto its soil.  This world’s name… Valisthea."

With her last words spoken to her divine deities, the goddess took her final breath and peacefully closed her eyes for the last time, then transformed into ashes. The warm wind blew towards her remains and carried them off by the wind; it was as if she was traveling throughout her world until her soul rested to the earth, now becoming a part of the land she created. 

Two of the divine envoys mourned inconsolably upon witnessing the goddess's death. Leviathan, the water envoy, cried in sadness as he had lost the deity who had been his source of comfort and motherly love. His tears transformed into a massive rainstorm, flooding the entire land, while Titan, the earth envoy, cried out in rage and sorrow, blindly smashing the massive continent and unknowingly divided it into two realms. 

The calamity known as the Gods' Grievances lasted for 40 days. 

As the gods’ grieving calamity subsided, the twin realms was entirely flooded by Leviathan’s tears. Suddenly an eruption occurred within the ocean, and out of the sea came a lone volcanic isle where one of the banished twin sons of fire resided. 

Chapter Text

The once beautiful skies above the northern territories were now painted with a somber and tempestuous backdrop, casting a mournful and sorrowful atmosphere over the kingdom of snow and ice, for it had entered a period of mourning.

It started on the day after the long night of the winter solstice, numerous people have gathered and waited outside the castle gates for the announcement from the royal family. Instead of the king announcing the news, in his place was one of the royal council who served as a spokesman or announcer for the people.

“To the good people of the Northern territories: On behalf of his majesty, King Silvermane, I formally announce that from the previous night, her majesty the queen, had finally given birth to a healthy baby girl, a princess and heir to the kingdom.”

Upon hearing the news, the people rejoiced, for the kingdom had finally secured a future and strong ruler, but then the cheers died down when the council spokesmen silenced the crowd, and spoke with a grave tone.

“However, despite the fact that the birth of the princess is joyous news... I have a sad duty to announce that the princess’ mother, her majesty Queen Arwen Warrick, had passed away after bearing her young highness. And as foretold by the sage elders and the shamans, the newborn princess of the north has chosen to become the next sacrificial offering to the infernal beast in the south.”

And with this sad news, the mood of the people began to swiftly change.

The passing of their revered queen and the emergence of the newborn princess as the prophesied successor for the sacrificial ritual brought about a nationwide period of mourning, sorrow, and spiritual tributes across the kingdom and its tribal lands.

Traditionally, many northerners chose to close their modest stalls and shops early, or even refrain from opening their businesses during this downcast period. Every establishment - including family houses - were all adorned with black colored tapestries, black ribbons, or even a translucent dark silk cloth decorated with white feathers, as a constant reminder of deep mourning that had befallen the entire tribal kingdom of the north.

Following that, they joined the extended lines crowded with mournful and sorrowful individuals moving towards the revered temple of St. Ysayle the Iceheart. This sacred temple resided at the heart of the Ganima forest in the northern kingdom, where the queen's deceased body was placed on display, enabling all to visit and glimpse of their beloved and gentle ruler. At the same time, they attended the holy services of the dead that was held in the temple's hall of worship. Like most other mournful people, they wore a traditional coat of mourning. Some of them wore their usual clothing but with the mourning colors of black, either a cloth or ribbon that was tied onto their clothes or anywhere in the body.

Throughout the period of great sadness, numerous chieftains hailing from different tribes, alongside with various people who were devout and faithful followers of Metia had solemnly traveled from their respective tribal communities towards the Iceheart Temple. They went not only to glance upon the deceased queen, but hoping to witness the holy presentation of the newborn princess and future sacrificial offering.

The magnificent timbered wooden temple was meticulously crafted in honor of the revered Iceheart saint. Crafted with utmost care, it showcased the finest and most durable cypress trees, nurtured in the frosty lands of the continent. It radiated a serene ambience, fostering a harmonious connection between mankind, nature, and the divine entities that dwelt within the surrounding land.

The wooden walls and pillars were embellished with tapestries displaying symbols representing nature divinities and spirit guardians that protected the northern territories, its inhabitants, and all living beings. Inside the hall of worship a sacred atmosphere prevailed, as the air carried the enchanting scent of incense. Intertwined with this fragrance were the floral wreaths, gifted by diverse tribes, some of which were intricately decorated for sacred ceremonies.

Stained glass windows in the open dome ceiling depicted Metia's divine blessing and Valisthea, the ancient mother goddess of creation.

Numerous visitors sat onto the wool-and-fur made ethnic square cushions on the floor while others occupied at the top on the upper hall’s semi-circle balcony that oversees the ceremony and rites from above.  Some were roped off for the important individuals. Among them was the royal councilmen, various chieftains from different parts of the territories and lastly the northern chieftain king Silvermane grieving the deceased woman who was lain in front of the elaborately decorated altar with relics dedicated to St. Ysayle.

Down a wooden walkway covered with a deep blue runway, in front of the altar was the body of king Silvermane’s beloved wife, the northern queen Arwen Warrick. She was laid out in state, surrounded by sacred ropes provided by the female shamans and held with eight ceramic candleholders, that contained the flames fuelled by the Holy fire originated from Infernal Eikon that had blessed the lands years ago, illuminating the room with a faint glow. The deceased queen was adorned in a silk velvet cape of aqua blue, carefully dressed within her pleated inner long-sleeved white dress. Her head rested on a small pillow while her hands were gently clasped together on her bosom while holding a snowdrop and an ancient charm of guidance to the afterlife. Her platinum blond hair was neatly combed and straighten, adorned with a crown of white lilies. From her waist to her feet, she was wore an exact replica of the lost cloak of the missing ice goddess that served as a blanket, while her hands remained clasped gracefully above it. Everywhere in her body was adorned with pink and while flower petals scattered all around. She was beautiful even in death.

From the start of the mournful period. The grieving king Silvermane, or by his real name Geir Warrick, vigilantly stood by her side, trying to engrave the memory of her gentle face for the last time reflecting on the days and years since their initial meeting until the birth of their daughter, who would be presented and baptized as the princess in the presence of Metia during her funeral. He desired that his beloved queen's final tribute to be memorable, before her departure to the afterlife.

On the eve of the funeral ceremony, he, along with the Head sage elder, and the queen’s trusted confidant, Marleigh, escorted him to the preparation chamber, where the queen's lifeless body was carefully placed upon a large marble table, in readiness for her placement that would carry her to the burial boat.

With the bundled sleeping infant princess in his arms, Geir kneeled down near Arwen's face, hoping his baby daughter to behold her mother's countenance and create a lasting memory.

“My daughter, Jillian, this is your mother, the one who gave her life for you to be born,"

Tears rimmed in Geir's eyes as he continued to speak, “But, she’ll be departing by the morrow after your sacred presentation to our people. Because—"

As if he couldn't handle his grief, he began to sob.

"Your mother believed…you will be in good hands….A beacon of hope…. our kingdom’s future."

He continuously sobbed as he kissed his daughter’s forehead while she squirmed at the touch of Geir's silverbeard. Then he looked at Arwen, his beloved yet deceased queen.

“Arwen, I swear that I shall care for our daughter like you promised, please watch over us, you’ll be in our daughter’s baptismal during your funeral before your departure and joining those before us.”

He held her cold, clasped hands with his teary eyes, look upward and stared to the heavens as if he was praying and pleading to Metia for a miracle to bring his wife back to life. Nevertheless, it was fruitless as the deceased cannot be resurrected, nothing can bring the dead back to life.

The same destiny awaits his daughter, who will be offered as a sacrifice to the infernal beast when she turns 25.

While the Head Sage elder and Marleigh looked upon the sorrowful king, the atmosphere suddenly became chillier, and unexpectedly, small snowflake-like specks of snow began to appear in the room. No one else was aware of this, save for the squirming newborn princess Jill, who only sensed the softness of a single snowflake landing on her closed eyelids.

As the snow flurry brushed against her, she stopped squirming then opened her little eyes and looked upwards, responding with an innocent smile and giggles that hinted at the sensation of an invisible gentle hand touching her little cheek. Then, planting an invisible kiss on her forehead she innocently cooed in response.

The sound of his daughter's innocent laughter brought a moment of relief to Geir's sorrowful heart. Looking at her newborn, cherubic face he couldn't help but smile. He extended his index finger to delicately touch her cheeks, but she surprised him by grabbing it tightly with her tiny hands, smiling all the while.

New tears streamed down his cheeks, not tears of sadness but tears of joy, and paternal affection. Realizing his daughter's strength and the love she had given to him, he knew that everything would be alright. Geir hugged his newborn tightly and whispered to her.

“Oh my daughter Jill, Thank you.” A single tear fell from his eyes and onto the babe’s face to which she happily cooed in response and began to reach to him as if she wanted to wipe his tears. Geir gave a proud yet tearful smile in a reply.

Upon seeing the emotional scene, Marleigh smiled, and face towards the head sage elder, who had shared the same smile in tears, for seeing the loving bond between a father and daughter together. But he ponders if the king’s daughter formed a spiritual connection to her mother or by extension, a spiritual bond to the Goddess Metia herself.

By the following fair day, the entire kingdom and its tribal inhabitants assembled outside the Temple of St. Ysay to witness a dual ceremony that celebrated both life and death. This included a solemn funeral service for the northern queen and the holy presentation of the northern princess.

The queen's open wooden casket was carried in a procession to the front, where the Head Sage elder awaited to preside over the funeral and presentation ceremony. Female shamans ringed the ritual bells similar to the Suzu bells, while Sage elders carried burner bowls containing ashes and smoke burnt by the holy flames of the Infernal Eikon.

With the procession ended, the open casket was placed in front of the altar that contained holy relics and items that were gifted and left behind by ancient spirits and divinities.

King Silvermane stood beside the queen's casket, holding his newborn daughter Jill, who was dressed for Metia's blessing ceremony. After the funeral rites, she would be introduced to the entire kingdom and blessed.

Accompanying the king were chieftains from their respective tribal territories, including Marleigh - the late queen's trusted confidant - the royal council, and numerous people from different tribes. Amongst these tribal community, were individuals hailing from the eastern shores of north called Mysidia, or those who are referred to by the inhabitants of the north as "Those from the Water" or "Children of Leviathan.”

As, everything settled down, the Head Sage Elder began the ceremony.

“Goddess Metia, we’ve come before you today to witness the occasion of life and death towards our departed queen Arwen Warrick and the newborn princess Jillian Warrick of the northern kingdom-”

The spiritual services lasted for several hours until the Head Sage Elder begun the funeral rite.

He proceeded towards the open casket where the queen’s body was laid, followed by female shamans carrying a tray containing: the devotional prayer beads that was spiritually blessed by Metia, the crystal ice from their missing patron goddess, a sacred flowering branch from the spirit forest of Ever-winter, and a white cloth adorned with flowers and a depiction of a man and woman, the latter holding a baby. The cloth was all woven and embroidered by the female shamans who adored Queen Arwen as a devotee to Metia and the spirits of nature.

“Hear us, O Divine goddess, for you and the great spirits of nature that flows through the course of life and death within us. Guide our northern queen as she begin her journey to the afterlife.

"May she be remembered you as your devout follower throughout her life.

"May she join you and unite with our departed ancestors where she’ll continued to watch over us, as a part of the land, the water, and air.

"May the love of her people be the source of comfort throughout her spiritual journey.

"May her divine spirit be always a part of nature and all its creatures.

"May she seek your embrace in your heavenly home.

"We beseech you, O great sprits and Goddess Metia. Forgive her sin bounded soul and have mercy on her."

Then First Sage elder turn towards the crowd.

"May you welcome her to your glory!!!"

"Welcome her!" cried the people in response. Then, everything went silent, as if they were praying for the dead.

Shortly thereafter, the stillness was disrupted by the beating of native drums, accompanied by a tribesman singing the memorial song of the dead in an ancient tongue, soon the tribespeople began to join in singing.

The sage elders approached the casket in a ritualistic manner, placing the burner bowls on the wooden stands that were arranged in the four corners. They bowed and then left.

The First sage elder turned to the female shaman, who was carrying a tray full of religious relics for the deceased. In return, the shaman bowed to the arch-priest. He then took the ribbon-flowering branch and began to sway left and right as the petals and leaves fell from the branch and onto her body representing the spirit divinities of spring had sung praises for her noble deeds of nature and to be welcomed to the goddess’s home.

He bowed to the deceased queen in respect as he placed the flowering branch onto her casket.

Then he took the praying beads of Metia and gave it a kiss, then he walked towards king Silvermane to kiss it and then proceeded to the newborn in the king’s arms where he placed the beads onto the pink lips of the baby princess. The beads that was the kissed by her family symbolized that even in death she will be remembered and loved by those who are left behind. In return she would continue to watch over them and pray for them, especially the princess and her doomed fate. Then he placed the prayer beads onto her clasped hands.

Next, he took the ice crystal from the tray and faced the people. He bowed to them as he made a sacred gesture, forming a snowflake from the left, center, and right. Every time he completed it, he bowed, and they responded with a bow in respect.

Then, he made the same sacred gesture onto the queen's body, concluding it with a respectful bow.

He returned the ice crystal onto the tray and proceeded to take the embroidery cloth, he unfolded it and arranged it carefully with the help of two female shaman assistants covering her feet, legs and some part of the replica cloak of the missing deity.

When the memorial song ended. He faced to the people and begun to speak.

“Esteemed brothers and sisters of the northern realms, we mourn the loss of our beloved sister and queen, Arwen, who had completed her life's journey and will soon depart towards the heavenly kingdom beyond the horizon, across the seas. Death had come upon her as she sacrificed her life to bear forth a new life to our kingdom's future. We have endured the calamity known as Eternal Winter, which left us without food and warmth. Hope was lost, until the queen gave birth a sacrificial princess who is destined to save us all."

The people were stunned in silence upon hearing his sermon. For the newborn princess, the future heir of the north was destined to die and yet was chosen to become the savior of the realm. There are some who were quietly seething with anger, convinced that the kingdom's downfall was due to the sacrificial rite conducted in Rosaria, directed towards their tribal home. Many of their lovely maidens became sacrifices at the age of 12, robbed from their normal lives and lived to be sacrificed to the beast upon reaching the marriageable age.

Yet, they all acknowledged that nothing could oppose the infernal monstrous being now that their patron goddess was believed to have vanished to the thin air. Now all they could do was to rely on the goddess Metia and the natural spirits that resided within their nature around the territories.

With the second sermon now over, the first sage elder began to speak. “Before her final sending, we will perform the baptismal rite for the northern princess.”

Chapter Text

Geir Warrick was consumed by sorrow throughout the funeral ceremony, fully aware that it signified the beginning of his wife's final journey to the goddess's abode, a journey that extended beyond the seas. Three days before the funeral, he made a heartfelt appeal to the First sage elder, requesting that his beloved wife be present at their daughter's christening and public presentation before her burial at sea. To his relief, the elder granted his request, understanding that the mother must be present during her daughter’s baptismal and the presentation rite before leaving to the afterlife. He also brought the most cherished memento she left for him, which was a stunning necklace, famously known as "The Snow Queen's Kiss," the very piece of jewelry he had given her on the night he proposed to her.

He felt regret for not adorning her with the necklace on the night she passed away. Nonetheless, he respected her wish to not wear jewelry, as she viewed it as a symbol of greed unworthy of entering Metia's heavenly abode. She wished to be remembered as a saint by wearing a simpler garment and surrounded herself with white lilies, which she believed were more beautiful than any piece of jewelry. He decided to hold onto it, until the day he would pass the jeweled memento to the precious bundle in his arms, who would be presented and baptized in front of her people. 

“May his majesty, King Silvermane, step forward with princess Jillian Warrick to receive the goddess rite of baptism.”  

In response to the announcement, Geir hastily approached the chief sage elder and the female shamans who were present. With Jill safely cradled in his arms, they guided him to a silver-veiled wooden cradle in front of the queen's casket, signaling that he should lay the baby inside.

After gently placing Jill in the cradle, he felt her tiny hand grasp his finger, signifying her reluctance to part. Nevertheless, he responded with a tender, parental smile, caressing her soft silver-gray hair with his other hand and bestowing a gentle kiss on her forehead to comfort her as he gradually loosened her hold.

Seeing a father and daughter moment, The Sage Elder smiled for moment and set his eyes on the tan skinned, white haired couple with a set of twins of their own in front. 

“May we call on the tributary of Mysidia and his family to come forward.” 

Approaching to the right side of the cradle were the tributary and his wife along with their twin children Shula and Famiel, who had journeyed all the way from Mysidia to become chosen as the god parents to the northern princess on behest of King Silvermane. 

Decades ago, the Northern territories had engaged in few skirmishes over the motes of water, as they had occupied the southern part of their land after fleeing from the Sanbreque Empire, who labeled them as heretics for refusing to abandon their beliefs. As time went on, the motes of water and the tribes of ice had established a peaceful negotiation, therefore the northerners gave them a portion of their land: A region in the eastern shores. Creating a small settlement called Mysidia where the descendants of the divine envoy, Leviathan, lived and thrived. In return, the Mysidians firmly served under the northern territories’ banner. Despite their friendly rivalry to one another, the King of the Northern tribes and the tributary of Mysidia settlement remained as steadfast allies. The tributary’s wife, upon hearing her dear friend’s death and the princess’s fate as the next sacrificial tribute, pleaded with her husband to become the princess’s godparents. He accepted without hesitation due to his strong alliance to King Silvermane, the royal family, and the north.

With the northern king and the tributary’s family gathered around the cradle, the Sage Elder begun the rite of blessing.

"Goddess, our creator, We are eternally grateful for the wonder of new life and the mystery of human love. We extend our thanks to all those whose support and skill have surrounded and sustained the beginning of life. We are thankful that you are known to us by name and loved by you from eternity. Merciful goddess Metia, who has guided us on the path of love. We praise you, in the name of the Goddess and the presence of the natural divinities around us."

Then, the people responded: 

"We bless you, O' Merciful Lady, now and forever."

Afterwards, a two female shamans appeared, with one carrying a modest tray that contained three crystalline vial bottles, each one filled with cold water. While the other carried a tray of a natural crystal that was used for blessing for a new life.

He first took the tray that contained the vials and raised it to the heavens

"Goddess Metia, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the Almighty One for the precious gift of water, bestowed upon us at the dawn of creation. We offer our gratitude to the divinity of the seas for the water of Baptism. A tribute to its tears that shed for the loss of the mother goddess, as we lost our own patron deity who safeguards the north. We believed that the divine, and the gods cried from the heavens, symbolizing of cleansing world from it wickedness. In the joyful obedience to you, we welcome them into our fellowship, inviting them to come to you in faith and to be baptized by you in your holy name.”

“O Divine Merciful Goddess, we humbly request your divine intervention to bless these frigid waters gifted by the spirit envoy of water. In your divine presence, may your essence descend upon these sacred waters as we baptized this child in your holy name.” 

Then silence occurred, followed by the ringing of the ritual bells.

He lowered the tray and gave it to first shaman assistant who bowed to him in response.

Then followed by another shaman assistant who approached him as he took tray from her and raised it to the sky.

“O Great spirits of all creation, we humbly request that you infuse this crystal with your divine essence. May this crystal act as a conduit for anointing the child with the strength of our ancestors. Forgive her sins and elevate her within the divine presence of nature and the merciful Goddess Metia.”

Once more, silence enveloped the crowd, followed by the resonant ringing of the ritual bells. Subsequently, he placed the tray down and bowed in silence. 

The female shaman assistant, carried the tray filled with ice vials, approached to the king and the Mysidian tributary couple along with their children and starts distributing the small bottles to them.
Meanwhile, the other female shaman moved towards the Sage Elder, who entrusted her with the tray while he retained his grip on the natural crystal in his hand.

Then, they approached the cradle where the baby princess lay, who watches them with quiet curiosity as they proceeded with the baptismal rite. The Tributary came first to the princess holding the vial on his right hand while the left was Shula, who peeks at the baby princess in wonder.

"May the ancient spirits of the oceans, rivers, and moon bestow upon the princess, the gifts of strength, industriousness, and kindness. Where she will walk amongst her people with a strong and kind heart." Holding the vial, he carefully poured tiny droplets of water onto the baby were Jill reacted in surprise upon being touched by cold water as it landed on her forehead. 

With his part done, he and Shula moved away, as his wife supporting Famiel with her right arm while holding the vial in her left hand upon approaching the cradle where her god daughter laid.

"May the ancient spirits of the winds, stars, and clouds grant the princess the gifts of humility, beauty, and dreams. May her benevolent heart and beauty continually reflect on the significance of humility and the sharing of her blessings, as she envisions peace and the future prosperity of her kingdom." The tributary's wife, while holding Famiel, initiated the gentle act of pouring small droplets of water onto the baby, who responded with coos, relishing the soothing chill.

The woman with her son were stepped aside as Geir walked towards the cradle where his newborn daughter looked at him calmly before smiling.

"May the ancient spirits of the earth, sky, and sun bestow upon my daughter the gifts of wisdom, love, and hope. May she embrace and cherish the spiritual wisdom of Metia, and fill her heart with gentleness and compassion. Let her be inspired with immense love for her people that will serve as a beacon of hope for our kingdom and future generations. May these gifts guide her path through life."

Following this, Geir began to sprinkle droplets onto his daughter's forehead. She cooed in reaction and beamed at her father, who looked at her with a proud demeanor, accompanied by a sorrowful smile. He stepped back as the first Sage Elder approached the cradle and picked up the baby princess, beginning to baptize her with the crystal as it began to shine in a pure light.

“In the name of the Goddess of all creation and Divine Metia, I baptized this child in your sacred divine as she grew in your protection and love of all nature.” 

He then placed the glowing crystal atop her forehead, just as a single liquid drop fell from the crystal and landed on the princess's forehead, causing her to squirm in response to the cold touch. From that single droplet, her face bore an icy blue mark—one on her forehead and on both of her cheeks. Feeling the cold effects, she began to squirm and whine even more.

Following this, he raised the squirming princess high above his head, directing her gaze towards the heavens, and uttered a heartfelt prayer.

“Bless your foretold sacrifice, O’ Great Mother, of all creations, Give her the strength and wisdom to overcome the evil and the strength of ridding the kingdom’s plague that is the everlasting eternal winter.”

“Bless her, O’ great mother of all nature and creation,” cried the people of the north.

"Bless your foretold sacrifice, O' Merciful divine goddess Metia, with a strong-willed heart and protective soul. Shield her from the flames of the infernal beast that will temper her soul, allow her strong-willed spirit to tame the beast's heart."

“Bless her, O’ merciful divine goddess.” 

Then silence occurred, followed by the ringing of the ritual bells and the baby’s squirms and cries. 

Afterwards, he walked towards the podium, facing the crowds of people despite the princess continuous squirms, he carefully lifted up the newborn princess for all the kingdom to see and in the eyes of Metia.

Esteemed tribes of the northern territories, I stand before you to present your princess, Jillian Warrick. The rightful heir to the northern throne, referred to as the sacrificial snowdrop,  the Vanquisher of eternal winter, and the final offering to the infernal beast. May the divine and spirit deities of the north protect her and guide her wisely.

Then the people cheered and applauded once more, this time louder and in an uproar. 

“Glory to the heir of the throne!”

“Glory to the Holy Sacrificial princess!”

“Hail to the future bride!”

“Glory to the Northern Territories!”

“Hail to the Tribal Kingdom of Ice!”

As the crowd continued to cheer, Geir gazed at his daughter, who was still writhing in discomfort as she was displayed to the audience. However, he soon observed that she was starting to settle down and smile.

Witnessing her smile and her presence among her people filled him with sorrow;  he discerned that his daughter's unspoken thoughts were likely that she had resigned herself to her fate as the 30th sacrificial offering. He noted that there were individuals who refrained from celebrating, instead choosing to mourn, as they could not bear the thought of their future ruler or princess becoming the next sacrifice. They feared that the kingdom would perish once their princess met her tragic end.Deep inside, he yearned to interrupt the ceremony and embrace his daughter, wishing to safeguard her from inevitable fate. Yet, the promised words from his beloved wife lingered in his thoughts.

“I know it’s hard...but Metia felt that Jillian will calm the storms and ending the sacrificial rite…and I believed in her."

“Don’t resent or lose your faith towards Metia..Have faith…in her…”

Those words echoed into his thoughts as he pulled out necklace from his pocket. 

He turned his eyes briefly to the singular memento of his beloved Arwen before looking at his daughter. The northern King, steeped in sorrow, understood that he would face not only the grief of losing his dear wife and queen but also the heart-wrenching reality of his daughter being offered to the malevolent creature of Rosalith. Two tears escaped down his cheeks as he gently pressed his lips to the necklace and then turned his attention to the casket that held her.

“…Arwen…”

Subsequently, he directed his gaze towards the Sage Elder, who arrived back with Jill, and gently placed the baby into the king's arms with a gentle smile.

As Geir gazed at his infant, a combination of sorrow and comfort washed over him. He was greeted by Jill's smile, which radiated her belief that all would be well. Following this, she giggled at her father, affirming her words. He responded by gently tapping her cheek, eliciting a sweet coo from her.

Then he placed her back in the pram, next to Marleigh just for the remaining minutes of the spiritual services to continue.

Soon after the final blessing, the spiritual mass service was over. 

Before long, the queen's casket was carried and placed atop of a wooden funeral carriage, drawn by six silver chocobos. Two northern warriors were stationed at the front, expertly managing the reins and guiding the avian steeds throughout the solemn march to the northern seas. 

The funeral procession was long, quiet, and somber as the Sage Elders led the march to the northern seas, where the queen would be laid to rest. The kingdom engaged in silent prayers, with some individuals singing hymns in remembrance of the departed. This solemn atmosphere was followed by the ringing of ritual bells from the female shamans and the strumming of hand drums by the male shamans. 

Among the marchers were the various tribal chieftains, including the now grim-faced chieftain king Silvermane, as well as Marleigh, who joined the procession while strolling the pram that cradled the sleeping newborn princess. Then numerous devout followers from various tribes, then the tributary of Mysidia, along with his wife, and their children as well. And lastly, the soldiers and warriors accompanying the march to prevent any assassination attempts or any mishaps during this solemn ceremony.

Many of the kingdom's subjects, witnessing the final procession of the deceased queen, began to wave white and icy blue fabrics, while others scattered flowers onto the casket as it passed by. This moment was filled with sadness for those who loved the queen profoundly, who had sacrificed her life to bring forth the child foretold to end the plague that had beset their land, instigated by the hellflame eikon.

Following an extensive period of the solemn procession throughout the kingdom, they arrived at the northern shores by sundown, where the burial vessel awaited them. Several men carefully lifted the casket from the funeral carriage and began to position it onto the burial boat, which was adorned with white ribbons and varieties of white flowers, from primroses to the northern’s national flower: Glory of the Snows.

Soon, a numerous crowd of people assembled along the shore, holding aloft their blazing torches, to witness the queen's last voyage to the heavenly kingdom before the sun sunk into the horizon. 

The Sage Elders went to position on each side of the boat and began to bless it and the queen's casket with holy water for the final time. 

At the head of the boat the chief Sage Elder opened the casket and gestured for Geir to kiss his wife for the last time. He approached the vessel and saw his beloved Arwen lying peacefully on the burial boat, poised for her final voyage to join Metia in her eternal home. He then kissed her lips, which were cold to the touch, for the final time, as he expressed his sorrow in a foreign northern tongue.

Kveðja, Arwen, líf mitt, ástin mín, dýrmæta drottningin mín 

(Farewell, Arwen, my life, my love, my cherished queen.)

He then moved aside, as the sage elders commenced the ceremony for the sea burial.

With the male archers arranged at the upper part of the coast, the First Sage Elder began to speak in a northern tongue.

Ó gyðjan Metia, við biðjum þig að taka á móti kæru systur okkar og drottningu, Arwen Warrick, inn í himneska heimili þitt. 

Megi síðasta ferð hennar til þín vera róleg og örugg, umkringd ástríkum og miskunnsamum faðmi þínum. 

Megi þú bjóða hana velkomin í eilíft líf.

(O Goddess Metia, we beseech you to receive our dear sister and queen, Arwen Warrick, into your heavenly home. 

May her final journey to you be calm and secure, surrounded by your loving and merciful embrace. 

May you welcome her into eternal life. )

Following this, many warriors initiated the process of pushing the boat into the sea, as a lone northern female shaman began to sing a farewell hymn in an ancient dialect of the north. Meanwhile, the male shaman archers fired their flaming arrows onto the icy surface to melt it, thereby creating a route for the ocean.

Before long, they released the boat, which glided quietly towards the horizon of the sea. Some of the northerners -- mostly women -- began to break down and mourn, while others stood in silence with slight tears rimmed in their eyes from seeing their beloved queen sail away to the sea that led to Metia’s heavenly home. 

No one felt more sorrow over the Queen's death than Geir Warrick, watching his beloved move from the earthly existence into the ethereal afterlife. He felt a profound sense of loss as he realized that their shared dreams of raising their daughter together had vanished, leaving him with the dual responsibility of governing the kingdom and raising his daughter alone, until her untimely demise as a sacrifice.

As night fell, the crowd began to dissipate and return to their homes save for the king, the queen’s confidant and the pram where the princess slumbered. 

“Marleigh, bring my daughter to me.” 

Hearing this, she picked the sleeping Jill up from the pram and handed her over to the king. 

There he cradled her in his arms and whispered to her. 

“Your mother may have departed from this earthly realm, however she has not forsaken us. Her spirit remains alive, even now, dwelling within our world, the trees, the hills, and the nature of the northern territories. She will continue to watch over us and our people in spirit, dwelling within all living beings. You’ll learn this someday, my daughter.” 

He raised his eyes to the night sky, where the enchanting moonlight illuminated the scene, with Metia’s red star positioned at the lower edge of its domain. The celestial light of the moon prompted him to reflect on the first night when their love was at its peak, leading up to the birth of their daughter. 

“The moon is beautiful, Arwen. May your eternal love watch over us and guide our daughter spiritually. I will see you again. Someday.” 

While Geir admired the moon with his infant daughter, he felt a gentle, unseen presence enveloping him. A smile formed on his face, though tears began to fill his eyes, as he acknowledged that Arwen’s spirit was forever by their side, watching over them. Soon, they left the shore and headed back to their kingdom.

Chapter Text

It was the year 851, three years having passed since the northern queen departed from this world. The Fimbulvetr castle, once resonant with joy and love, had transformed into a mausoleum of sorrow and silence. The Northern King Silvermane or Geir had changed from a soft-hearted and kind man to a grief stricken, stoic and harsh person who grew rough and ruled with an iron determination.  

People say, and rumored, that his heart turned cold as ice after his beloved queen died. While others believed he neglected his daughter, the princess, whom they gossiped was is responsible for the queen’s death. After all, she’s the chosen offering to the demonic Eikon that will soon terrorize their home.

Occasionally, in mornings, the castle staff and servants could hear the king’s anguished cry that came from the chapel room and its hallways. They knew he had lost his wife and soon his daughter, the princess.

----------

Meanwhile on the other side of the castle, a little girl with silvery gray hair joyfully raced and danced through the castle's hallways, weaving past the servants and guards like a fairy. This enchanting figure was the northern princess, Jillian Warrick, affectionately referred to as Jill, and had been playing as snow sylph. Her innocent laughter echoed the silent hallways, almost attempting to brighten the gloomy atmosphere of her home. The staff and servants saw her as a sweet innocent angel attempting to alleviate the grieving sadness that plagued their kingdom.

While her father remained perpetually busy with his governance, her only companion was her devoted guardian and nanny, Marleigh, who had previously served as the confidante to the former queen and now dedicated herself to being the princess's protector and caregiver. Shula, her only friend and playmate, would occasionally visit the kingdom with her father, the tributary of Mysidia, whenever there were meetings with other tribal chieftains or for family gatherings.

----------

As Jill danced and dashed through the hallways alone, she accidentally stepped on a ribbon from dress. This misstep led her to stumble and fall onto her knees and elbows. The pain that shot through her knees and elbows caused tears to well up in her eyes. Still, she remembered how her father’s eyes would become devoid of warmth whenever she was on the verge of crying.

She began to rise on her own, but as the pain remained, she started to falter.

Then, two gentle yet fragile hands caught her from falling.

“Are you alright, little child” 

Jill then shifted her gaze upwards and spotted a cloaked figure, which upon closer inspection, revealed to be a woman. Her face was adorned with patches of gray, and her neck bore a similar coloration. Upon examining her eyes, Jill noticed that the woman's left eye was concealed by her hair, whereas her right eye, a brilliant icy blue, was visible.

“Yes, Thank you” Jill replied meekly

“I’m glad.” The cloaked woman said in a gentle relief as she helped her to stand.

Then she knelt down and touched the girl’s bruised knee and elbows, suddenly a wave of warmth cascaded through Jill’s body as the cloaked woman cast a curative spell through her touch. 

Then she stood up and sees Jill, examined her knees and elbows noticed that the bruises were gone. 

Amazed how the mysterious woman healed her, Jill hugged on her knees and smiled at her.

“Thank you lady, Are you an angel?” Jill asked innocently 

But the woman didn’t say anything but gave her a sad smile as she finished fixing the girl’s dress and tying her ribbon dress.

“My name is Jill, what’s yours?” the princess asked again.

Just as the enigmatic woman was ready to say something, Jill suddenly heard Marleigh's voice calling out to her.

“Can you wait for me?, Nan-nan is calling for me. I would love to introduce her to you.” She said to the mysterious lady.

Following that, Jill dashed off to meet up with her nanny leaving the lady alone.

----------

“My lady, are you alright? Have you been causing trouble?” Marleigh sternly asked to the little princess as she checked up on her.

“I’m alright, see.” Said Jill gleefully as she twirled carefully in attempt to tell her nanny that she’s well.

“I just stumbled, and then stood up, thanks to a cloaked lady who found me.” 

“Lady!? What Lady?!” Marleigh exclaimed.

“Mhm, a cloaked lady that as gray marks on her face” answered Jill then she explained about the mysterious cloaked individual that helped her.

“I can bring you to her, she’s still there"

----------

Skeptical of Jill's depiction of the cloaked individual, Marleigh proceeded with caution and heightened awareness, deciding to assist Jill in her inquiry. Nevertheless, when they arrived at the spot where the woman was last seen, she had mysteriously disappeared.

“She’s gone…” Jill spoke in sadness 

 Marleigh let out a deep sigh, casting a stern look at the princess.

“What’s got into you milady, Do you have any idea what danger you might expose into..? What if she’s an assassin who will kill you, what if she’s demon in disguise as a woman. I’m going to inform your father about your meeting with this unfamiliar individual.

“But. I saw her…She even healed me” Jill stated, revealing her elbows where the bruises had once been.

“Jill, she’s trying to build your trust. If you earn her trust, she might take you someplace where you’ll be killed or do something bad. And if anything happened to you, our kingdom will be punished by your father or worse…The infernal Eikon will come and destroy our home”

“Why would, papa hurt you?” Jill questioned to her nanny and guardian.

Marleigh shook her head and left the princess alone, as she hurriedly away to find a nearby servant or staff to inform the king. 

Disheartened, Jill sat on the floor, reflecting on whether the cloaked woman was indeed real or not and to her astonishment, the same cloaked woman suddenly stood directly in front of her.

Upon recognizing her, Jill stood embraced her leg, then start ponding on it. 

“Why didn’t yoou wait? I’m in trouble” Jill cried out, but the lady remained silent as the princess kept crying, then look towards the direction where sounds of footsteps can be heard.

Just then, a servant spotted the princess in tears, isolated in her sorrow. She moved closer to the weeping girl and enveloped her in a comforting hug. Soon after, Marleigh arrived and beheld the retainer comforting the grieving princess. 

As the cloaked woman gazed at the sorrowful princess, she felt a wave of remorse upon seeing the girl in tears. Shortly thereafter, she observed the older woman embrace the tearful girl, placing the princess's head on her shoulder and carrying her to the room, accompanied by the servant girl. 

“…Jill...Forgive me, you’re the only one who can see…they don’t…but I would love to be with you…my child…”

----------

Within the confines of the princess's suite, Marleigh prepared the princess for her scheduled naptime by changing her into her sleeping garments. After ensuring the princess was comfortably tucked in, Marleigh exited the room, where the king stood waiting for her.

----------

"Marleigh, did anyone attempt to forge a connection with Jill? Geir sternly asked to the former confidante of his queen.

The nanny shook her head and began to recount that the princess had a peculiar meeting with a cloaked female figure, but when they reached the hallways, there was no one to be found. Intrigued by this account and suspecting an assassination attempt, Geir made his way to a nearby guard, commanding him and the other guards to search for the mysterious woman and detain her immediately on suspicion of assassination.

The guard obeyed, and hurriedly spread the order to the other castle guards to search of the dangerous individual.

----------

As Jill peacefully sleeps, oblivious to the world outside her room, a cloaked female figure keeps a watchful eye on her. With a simple wave of her hand, she calls forth her magic, enveloping the sleeping princess in an essence of ice magic that eventually transforms into a swarm of icy blue and white butterflies as she enters the dream.

----------

Upon opening her eyes, the princess discovered a meadow filled with brilliant flowers and expansive trees. Captivated by the enchanting scenery, Jill rose to her feet and began to appreciate the delightful beauty of the meadow. She joyfully danced and twirled around the meadow. Soon she began to fall onto the flowers in gleeful innocent laugh. 

While staring into the clear blue sky, the same cloaked woman appeared to her with a gentle smile. 

“Ah!” Jill cried out in surprise. 

The woman giggles as her gray patched hand covered her mouth to hide her gentle laughter for surprising the little girl. 

“That’s not funny, why didn’t you wait for me when I want to introduce you to my guardian?” said Jill as she puffed her cheeks. 

The woman stopped laughing and bent towards Jill as she soothed the girl by caressing her hair. “I did. But, unfortunately she can’t see me.” She answered in gentle tone. 

“How come?” Jill asked. 

“Because, she nor anyone cannot see me…Only you can Jill” 

Jill’s eyes widened when the cloaked woman told her name. “You remembered my name?” “

Of course, you introduced yourself to me, after all.” replied the cloaked woman 

Jill swayed side to side, looking excited. "Then tell me your name, please?"

“I am referred to as Ysay.” 

“Y..say..?” Ysay nodded and knelt down to the princess’s level. 

“And like you, I’m a northern princess” She then unveiled her hood, which allowed her shoulder-length light brown hair to cascade down. 

Her face was partially obscured by gray patches, with her left eye hidden by her hair, while her right eye, a piercing icy blue, was fully visible. Seeing the gray patches on her cheeks, Jill examined and carefully touched them. 

“Does it hurt?” Ysay shook her head sadly and allowed the girl to touch them.

“No, But these were the scars from my disobedience to my kindred, and I was given a punishment for my audacious deeds.” 

“Why?” Jill asked.

Ysay didn’t say anything, but gave a child a sad smile.  Then she held the child’s hand that held on her cheek tightly as tears rolled from her eyes.  

Sensing her sadness, Jill thought of a gleeful idea. 

“Ah, I know how to cheer you up Ysay. Why don’t I make you a flower crown,” 

And with that, Jill ran to the flower meadow and began to pick many flowers.

The elder northern princess observed with great interest as Jill thoughtfully picked different flowers, gathering them one at a time. After she was pleased with her choice for the floral crown, she made her way back to Ysay and sat down next to her starting the process of weaving the flowers together.

While engaged in weaving flowers, Jill started to hum a song and eventually she began to sing. 

“Star light (say goodnight)”

Star bright, where have you fallen?

“Star light (say goodnight)

Star bright, I hear you calling”

 As Jill's song resonated, Ysay became rigid, her eyes widening in astonishment, and she remained motionless as fragmented memories resurfaced: a marble altar, cloaked figures accompanying her while she was restrained, a colossal fire, and a terrifying demonic beast approaching her.

The melody of a long forgotten song brought forth tears in Ysay's eyes.  Sensing her emotional pain, Jill stood up and gently wiped the princess's tears away.

“Don’t cry,” said Jill to the weeping northern princess.

“I’m alright, thank you,” replied the northern princess as she gently pat on Jill’s head. With a smile in her face, Jill resumed her weaving and singing. Soon enough, her floral crown was finished.

“All done.” said Jill as she got up and revealed the flower crown to Ysay, who then inclined her head, granting Jill the opportunity to adorn her with the crown. 

“So pretty, you really a princess now.” said Jill with a proud sweet tone.

“I...I don’t know what to say…but I love it so much,” said Ysay with a gentle smile. Then she stood up, knelt to the child and hugged her in return.

“Thank you, my child.” 

Jill replied with an innocent giggle and hugged in return.

But then, Ysay suddenly noticed a change on the meadow and the sky, as smoke and fog rolled in, shifting the atmosphere from a bright day to a bleak and threatening one. 

“Oh no…this is…” 

Meanwhile, fear began to swell within Jill, causing her to hold Ysay closely.

“I’m scared,” Jill cried as she clung to the older northern princess.

Following this, Ysay sensed another presence lurking in the heavy walls of fog and smoke. She rose to her feet, holding the scared girl, and cautiously inspected the smoky shroud that had transformed the once idyllic meadow. In that moment, she heard a growl amidst the thicken mist, her eyes widening as she recognized the sound and realized that the fog was deliberately utilized to conceal his presence.

In an instant, Ysay identified the malevolent, fiery red eyes that emerged from the heavy mist, coupled with a loud growl. She quickly shifted her attention to Jill, holding the girl securely as they made their escape, fear evident in her eyes, while the flower crown fell away during their flight.

 The creature roared with fury, engulfing itself in flames as it pursued them unrelentingly into the foggy meadow. It left behind a fiery trail of charred earth and flowers that wilted and curled as if they had been burned by its flames. The flower crown, crafted by the young princess, was destroyed in the blaze.

----------

With Jill held tightly to Ysay's embrace, the two northern princesses escaped from the demonic beast that relentlessly pursued them through the forest. Each time the beast drew near, flames erupted and swiftly engulfed the surrounding trees and grass.  Before long, the princesses arrived at a clearing atop a steep cliff that descended into the rushing waters of a river. Thinking they had successfully eluded the beast, Ysay began to set the girl down. At that moment, the beast appeared from the burning trees, growling furiously at them. Jill held tightly to Ysay's skirt as the fiery creature approached them.

Ysay’s eyes furrowed at the approaching demon. She looked down to the rushing water, then to Jill. She picked up the girl in her arms and was on the verge of jumping down to the hastening river. 

Jill, filled with fear, watched as the beast drew nearer. Suddenly she detected a change in its expression as it held its clawed hand toward them. At that moment, a voice unexpectedly resonated in the child’s mind. 

“…I finally found you…my-”

In anger Ysay yelled towards the infernal demon.

“I WON’T LET YOU TEMPER HER.” 

Then she jumped off cliff while holding Jill in her arms.

The beast's roar, a mixture of fury and sorrow, echoed through the air, prompting the younger northern princess to glance up from Ysay's back. Her eyes glistened with tears as she felt the creature's pain and torment resonating in its cry. She reached out instinctively towards the beast, yet a powerful wave of water struck her back, bringing her abruptly back to reality.

----------

It was an early evening, upon her awakening from the dream.

Jill's eyes overflow with tears as she begins to weep. Hearing her cries from outside, Marleigh enters the room and hugged the crying girl. 

"Ma-Marleigh..." Jill cried out, her sobs echoing as she grasped her nanny tightly, overwhelmed with emotion. Just then, Geir walked into the room and witnessed Marleigh offering comfort to the distraught princess.

“Jill?”

Recognizing her father's voice, Jill raised her gaze to meet his. Aware that she had been crying in his presence, she quickly wiped her tears and endeavored to present herself as composed and “serious” before her father, the king. Marleigh subsequently bowed to her king as she took her leave, allowing Geir to have an opportunity to spend time with his daughter.

“Jill, my daughter, I heard from Marleigh that you forged connection to an unnamed cloaked female individual or someone within the castle walls.” 

“Mhm” 

Jill quietly nodded, trying to hide her tears and fear from her father’s fits of scolding. 

Geir sighed then he went towards the window of her room while maintaining a serious countenance while watching the guards patrolling the courtyard from the window. 

Then he began to pose questions to his daughter, “Do you any ideas, the reasons for my apprehension about your meeting with unfamiliar individuals?"

Jill didn’t say anything. Instead she remained silent, remembering Ysay's reminder that her existence was visible only to her. Nobody else.

Not hearing his daughter's reply, Geir turned from the window and sat on the chair next to his daughter’s bed. Then he spoke again in a stern yet slight angry voice:

“What were you thinking? What if that female stranger would kidnap you? 

What if that female stranger would hurt you? You’re still a child, you could’ve gotten killed.” 

“But…but she won’t harm me…she only healed me…”

“Only…ONLY!? My ungrateful daughter, do you not understand!!? That person that you attempt to befriend MIGHT be a kidnapper from the Iron Kingdom, or an undead human, or a demon that will take your LIFE. She might be a demon or a witch that placed a curse upon you instead of healing you-”

As her father carried on with his scolding, Jill hung her head in silence. The harshness of his words inflicted pain upon her heart, as he not only disbelieved her account of the encounter with Ysay, but also led her to question whether he had become emotionally distant or had never loved her in return.

“Listen to me Jill, I’m worried because you are my daughter and I don’t want to lose you. Do you understand?"

Jill sadly nodded in reply.

“Yes, Papa…”

Soon the king stood up and stroke his daughter’s head. Feeling the comforting touch, Jill looked up to him with sad worried eyes. 

“Are you mad at me, papa?” 

“I may be mad at you. But you only made me worried today. From now on, you will not travel anywhere unaccompanied. A guard or Marleigh will be present with you at all times. Do you understand?”

Jill, filled with sadness, nodded her head quietly without uttering a word.

Geir kissed his daughter’s forehead and begun walking towards the door.

“I love you, Papa,” Jill said meekly.

With a stern expression, Geir looked back at his daughter and nodded in reply with a small smile. He then left the room, ensuring the door was closed softly behind him, leaving Jill in solitude.

As Jill lay on her bed, she became acutely aware of the deep sorrow and anxiety reflected in her father's eyes. He understood the risks she encountered when faced with unfamiliar or mysterious figures within the castle. Whether it was the threat of assassination or a dark, enigmatic stranger, she knew her father was vigilantly guarding her against the dangers that surrounded her.

And yet. 

Jill's moments with Ysay was serene and tranquil, until the appearance of a demonic, fiery beast that pursued them through the scorched forest. She then reminisced about the beast that Ysay had endeavored to protect her from. 

The young northern princess started to feel curious yet pity towards the beast. She remembered how its eyes had changed from aggressiveness to kindness as it held out its clawed hand to her, and recalled its words that echoed in her mind.

“…I finally found you…my-“

Feeling sorry for the beast, she jumped down from her bed, then knelt by its side facing an open window where the moon shone on its early night. 

She then clasped both of her hands and started to pray. 

“Metia, Goddesss Metia, if you can hear me. The fiery beast is lonely, will you protect him from the dangers…I want him to be my friend, I want him to be my best friend. I want him to become stronger so he can protect me from all the danger. I know he’s not a bad monster…

While Jill remained praying, above the night skies Metia’s star glowed as bright as the moonlight as if the goddess heard her prayers.

----------

Far away from the territories of the north, a young boy of six years stood at the balcony of Rosalith’s castle, alone, looking at Metia’s star located near the moon. 

The black haired boy looked up at Metia’s star, silently asking if it could appease the entity that laid dormant inside of him... 

But all it could provide was silence.

In that instant, he felt an intense pulse within him, while the boy's sapphire blue eyes widen with fear as numerous haunting feminine voices began to reverberate in his ears.

“IT’S YOUR FAULT.”

“YOU KILLED ME, YOU MONSTER.”

“How dare you.”

“YOU MONSTER.”

“You’re not Human..BUT A MONSTER.”

“You don’t deserve to live.”

“DEMON.”

“BLOODY DEMON.”

“DIE, YOU DEMONIC CHILD.”

“YOU DESTROY MY FUTURE, BECAUSE OF YOU.”

Then pain surged in his head as the boy struggled to rid of the haunting voices from his head. He fell onto the floor covering his ears, and crying in pain, yet no servants nor shields ever came to help him.

For they too had "fear" towards the Eikon of the infernal flames. 

Then among the voices of the female, One voice was different from the rest. It was eerily yet emotionless.

“You cannot escape your sin, Son of the infernal beast of Mythos”  

Chapter Text

Emerging from its slumber, the firebird witnesses the entire continent engulfed by a relentless flood. Concerned for the lives of those who suffered beneath the flood, the sacred bird summoned its own flames and soared into the expansive sky. Throughout its celestial journey, a profusion of ember particles cascaded from its feathers, descending upon the inundated land. 

Upon its fiery flight, the floodwaters retreated from the exposure of the firebird’s presence, the twin realms resurfaced and begun to dry from the aftermath of the storm. Soon the continent was enveloped in immense warmth from its ember particles, thus bringing life back to the world.

Having endured the long perilous journey, the weary flaming bird was on the brink of descending to the earth. But upon landing, the avian underwent to an abrupt metamorphosis, transforming himself into a pile of ashes as he landed onto the earth’s soil.

When the other deities witnessed the firebird’s noble actions, they were amazed and begun to praise for his arduous journey in restoring the twin realms and proving himself to be innocent and carrying the benevolent flames rather than flames of destruction that destroyed Valisthea’s creation of her world. 

Approaching to the pile of ashes, Ramuh scooped them up in his hands and then handed them to Bahamut, commanding him to soar into the sky and purify the ashes in the sunlight before scattering them over the volcano where he had awakened.

Shortly after, the volcano erupted, and the firebird was reborn, resembling a fledgling. Before long, he found himself encircled by the other deities who he recognized them as the Mother Goddess’ holy messengers now transformed into divine gods, and like them he became one of them.

“Are you-?” 

Just as he was about to spoke, Bahamut approached to him

“Among the holy gods and goddess, we had achieved godhood because of our noble deeds to the divine mother, for who had sacrificed her life for bringing back the world’s creation and life itself.” 

The gallant knight Odin moved towards him

“Noble Firebird, It is your resolute endeavors have effectively restored the twin realms that were devastated by our calamitous grief. Your deeds serve as undeniable proof that you are not the cause of the conflict that resulted in the annihilation of both humanity and the divine creations.”

Soon Titan marched to him, with the Garuda accompanied him

“Because of this, we’ve decided to resurrect you from the dead, as a reward for your good deeds.”  Then Garuda began to spoke next. “And now, you had join our ranks as part of the Divine who will watch over Valisthea, the continent that our heavenly mother created and rest among its soil.”

Leviathan silently floated towards him and bowed towards the Bird

“We thank you, True ruler of flames” said Ramuh as he appeared next to Leviathan with Shiva in tow.

“Henceforth, you shall be known as The Phoenix, as you have borne the compassionate flames of life and renewal, and you shall bear the gentle and controlled flames that you will bestow upon the realm of mortal beings. As such you are the last of the divine gods and goddess to balance the elements that was required to this world. We are given to govern by our mother goddess and you are now a part of us. My fellow young god of flames and rebirth.” 

After that, Ramuh touched the feathered form of the fledgling phoenix, and the rest of the deities came together to rejoice in the emergence of the new god who rules the benevolent flames, and rebirth. Thus restoring the balance of the nature within the twin continents. Despite the festive atmosphere, Shiva remained somber, her gaze unmoved as she mourned the absence of the firstborn twin son of fire amidst the celebration. 

Suddenly a questioning thought emerged abruptly in Shiva's mind, as she approached to Ramuh.

“But what about the firstborn son of fire? Does that mean he’s guilty” she said in a worried tone.

Upon hearing these words, the celebration abruptly halted, and the once elated Ramuh's demeanor transformed into one of anger and fury as Shiva questioned upon the existence of the firstborn son of the flames. Subsequently, the sky darkened, then thunder and lightning boomed in a display of wrath.

That malevolent beast shall forever be known as the infernal ruler of destructive flames and death, a blight on the very existence of humanity. Through his uncontrollable rage, he will lay waste to everything, inflicting the land with his wrathful flames, devouring countless innocent souls to fuel his power and sustain his life without any hint of mercy.

“IN THE NAME OF THE MOTHER GODDESS VALISTHEA” 

“He shall no longer be the holy beast!!!”

“He shall no longer be welcomed to our divine home!!!!”

“He shall be called the infernal beast who will bring destruction to this world!!!”

“He shall be known as Ifrit. The demonic entity of death and plagues!!!.”

With that judgement, lightning flashed and thunder roared; the other deities including the phoenix cheered and accepted the punishment towards the so called “divine god of the first flames” for they knew he caused the destruction that angered their mother goddess and here he will bring nothing but chaos and death.

While the deities celebrated the victory of the verdict, Shiva remained detached from the festivities. Little did anyone know, a mutual love had blossomed between them and yet her heart breaks when he was labeled as a instigator of destruction and an unholy being that will destroy life itself.

Strayed away from the other gods, she gazed towards the path where she had last seen the infernal beast. Then fresh tears sprung from her eyes, for she still felt sympathy towards him and yet her love for him never wavers. She knew that one day he will held a grudge towards the deities of Valisthea. Including her.

 —————

In the nursery room in Rosalith castle, a six year old young boy was reading a book called The Judgement of the Sons of Fire next to a cradle where his one year old brother was resting. Looking at the sleeping toddler, he closed the book then kissed his little brother’s forehead before leaving the room unnoticed. 

“Good night Joshua.” He whispered as he closed the door quietly. 

Guided by the candles that lit the hallways, the young older brother stealthy walked with the book in his arm, making sure no one noticed his presence within the castle. 

As the boy walked through the corridors, he reflected on how each day of his life had been met with the cold, unfeeling gazes of those he once thought to be loving and compassionate individuals. Wherever he gazed at people, they always met him with cold reception. Sometimes whenever he greeted or did something good in return, he was still seen as a pariah and feared by everyone. Yet still he hoped that his little brother would love him and understand him. 

Then, he felt something hard in his face as he fell onto the floor in recoil. 

He looked up to see Rodney Murdoch - the lord commander of the Rosaria’s shield - staring at him with an unfeeling gaze that showed no pity or compassion.

 “…Why are you here…” Rodney spoke as his hand moved towards his sword. 

Seeing this, the boy moved away quickly as he ran off to the opposite side of the hallways, hoping it will lead to his room and away from the shield’s captain who attempted to eradicate him.

—————

In a brief period, he successfully distanced himself from the Shields’ lord commander, who was unable to keep up. The boy felt a deep ache in his heart as he observed Rodney’s cold and unfeeling expression, fully cognizant of the animosity directed at him. 

Soon, he reached his room and secured it by lowering the heavy beam to lock the door. Following this, he placed the book beside his bedside and changed into his sleeping tunic before climbing into bed and beginning to close his eyes as he fell asleep in uneasiness.

—————

Soon the boy's eyes opened abruptly as he stood tall and giant in front of the altar where a cloaked maiden whose arms are bound in chains and awaiting death. Choosing to support the woman, he endeavored to extend his hand, but to his surprise, a massive, pointed claw appeared in its place. Fear came into his eyes that he turned into a demonic beast. Unable to govern his own body, he grasped the woman, prompting her to scream in horror. In that moment, flames shot from his hideous claw, the woman screamed resulting in her agonizing death by fire.

Horrified by his action, the boy turned into a beast and fled in terror. He kept running and running as a voice resonance within his mind.

“Child of fate, thou cannot escape the sins that your predecessors committed, for one shall be bathed with inferno and wrath. The gods discriminated me and you are hated by the world. Surrender to me, O beast of Mythos. For you are the one who will punish Valisthea and her creations. Burn the world with your infernal wrath, Ifrit.”

“NO!!!” The boy cried angrily as he kept running.

After racing through the long passages of the castle, the boy found himself in a forested meadow.  Having no idea on how he got into the forest, the boy sadly meandered alone in his gigantic beastly guise. 

As he wandered alone, the boy stumbled upon a lake and looked at his reflection. Instead of his human likeness, he was met with a terrifying demonic figure, its large body shrouded in flames and lava rock. This entity boasted it's massive horns that curved backward, a wolf-like snout with razor-sharp fangs, and a mane of white hair that trailed down its neck. 

Upon seeing the beast instead of his human self, anger surged within him. He curled his hand into a fist and began massively pound the lake until some of its water vaporized, creating a mist that surrounded the forest.

Then a song resonated throughout the forest as it reaches the beast ears

“Star light (say goodnight)”

Star bright, where have you fallen?

Suddenly, the tantrums and frustration stopped upon hearing a young girl singing beautifully somewhere deep in the forest. The beast’s eyes began to soften as he kept listening to the song which comforted his sad and lonely heart.  Somehow, he knew that she was lonely as him. 

He decided that he was willing to meet the young girl, but realized his current guise might frighten her upon seeing his monstrous form. But as he looked at the lake that nearly vapored into mists, an idea came to the boy’s mind. 

Utilizing the flames emitted from the creature’s body, he commenced the process of vaporizing the entire lake, resulting in the forest and sky becoming enveloped in mist. 

Seizing this moment, he instinctively advanced through the trees, relying on his fiery gaze to navigate through the obscured surroundings.

Soon, he reached towards a clearing where he saw two figures that were obscured in the thicken mist. The boy was confused at first, for he could not identify who among the individuals was the young girl. 

“I’m scared,” the young girl cried out.

Hearing her voice, his growl came from a place of both concern and interest in his heart.  He slowly began to approach them, not wanting to scare the girl.

But then, the older individual saw him and began to run with the young girl in her arms. Seeing them fled from him, he roared in fury.

“WHY, WHY DOES EVERYONE AFRAID OF ME!!!”

Engulfing himself in flames, he pursued them unrelentingly into the foggy meadow. Leaving behind a fiery trail of charred earth and flowers that wilted and curled as if they had been burned by its flames. Unbeknownst to the boy a flower crown, crafted by the young girl, was destroyed by his flames.

He chased them through the forest as flames erupted and swiftly engulfed the surrounding forest.

The fog soon dissipated, allowing him to reach a clearing situated atop a steep cliff that plunged into the swift currents of a river. His eyes looked towards the older woman whose eyes furrowed upon him, then he looked down and sees a young girl fearfully clinging onto the older woman’s skirt.

Sensing pity for the young girl, he moved closer to them. In that moment, the older woman held the girl tightly and appeared ready to leap backwards into the swiftly flowing river.

But that didn’t stop him as he drew nearer to the young girl.

The young girl gazed at him in fear, yet her expression transformed when he reached out with his clawed hand. The appearance of his beastly hand reaching out to her prompted a significant change in her demeanor.

The boy's eyes expanded in surprise before he smiled, emitting a soft growl as he communicated with her telepathically.

 “…I finally found you…my-

But their moment was interrupted as the older woman angrily yelled at him

“I WON’T LET YOU TEMPER HER.” 

Then, she jumped off cliff while holding the young girl in her arms.

As he watched them dive onto the raging river, the boy felt a profound sense of sadness and rage within his heart. He found himself abandoned by everyone around him, being ostracized and reviled for the monstrous form that had been with him from the very beginning of his life.

He was deprived of the opportunity to know his father, as his mother would have resented his very existence. Now, he hopes that his young brother will not come to fear or resent him for being born as a demonic beast.

He was engulfed with tears of anger, and a sorrow that suffocated him. Then a flood of emotions surged out, filling him with despair, hopelessness, and anger.

At that moment, rain fell onto the burnt forest, as he began to growl and hissed in anger as raging flames started to engulf in his body once again. The rage danced in his heart, growing brighter and brighter.

Then the beast’s eyes shifted from sapphire blue to topaz yellow as he angrily roared at the rainy skies.  It was a roar that filled the skies with fury and sorrow as it echoed through both the air and the burnt forest.

—————

“AAAHH!!” 

The boy cried out and sat up straight in his bed, panting from the nightmare he just had. Then he looked onto his hands that were no longer monstrous and clawed. Remember what he had seen before, he covered his face and began to weep. Stricken by feelings of despair and isolation, he never felt so alone, for no one would come to comfort or love him unconditionally. 

Reflecting on his early years, he was cared for by a woman he viewed as a motherly presence. She was a lovely woman, characterized by her chest-length black hair that gracefully draped over her right shoulder, her fair skin, and her enigmatic scarlet eyes. She possessed a loving and gentle demeanor, that of a mother towards a child and, more importantly, she was aware that he was the infernal beast, Ifrit. 

Unlike the people of Rosaria, she never showed her fear towards him, even as a baby. Instead she gave him unconditional love and happiness that every child should need. Sadly, she departed from this life when he was just three years old, due to an unidentified illness. As she lay on her deathbed, she shared her final words with him.

“Dear sweet, Clive, my young Rosarian prince.  Promise me, that you must not bear a hatred upon yourself, including the beast that laid dormant inside of you. He…is you and you…are…him. I may not be with you to understand this…but…remember…this. You must love…and…forgive yourself.  I’ll be with you, here, in your heart. And I’ll guide and love you always like Metia, the loving, merciful one. ”

Her death left him in agony and sorrow, and to this day, no one in Rosaria had the same unconditional love as she. All he hoped was that his brother would give him the unconditional love that his motherly caretaker gave him.

Returning back to the present, the boy called Clive had stopped crying and began to recall his foster mother’s final words to him. Metia. He wondered if Goddess Metia would be merciful if she could appease the infernal beast, Ifrit, within him.

Descending from his bed, he cautiously opens his door and glances outside, ensuring that the night shields are not patrolling the castle's living quarters. With the surroundings clear, he quietly exited his room and began wandering through the hallways.

Eventually, he found himself on the balcony. There, he beheld the enchanting moonlight illuminating the sky, accompanied by the alignment of Metia's star. Upon looking at the moon in the night sky, he silently ask to the bright red star if he can appease the monstrous Ifrit that laid dormant within him, so that everyone will start looking at him, understanding his pain and maybe giving him a unconditional love in return.

...But all it could provide was silence.

In the case of a young boy such as Clive, he demonstrated a commendable level of patience regarding his wishes, understanding that their fulfillment wouldn't be instantaneous and might require time. Additionally, it was crucial to acknowledge that wishes can either be realized or remain unfulfilled. 

Just as he was about to return to his room, a strong pulse hit within his entire body which stopped him in his tracks. Then his eyes widened as numerous haunted voices –the spirits of the previous sacrificial maidens- began to ring in his ears. 

“IT’S YOUR FAULT,” said one voice.

“…No…” said Clive as he began to cover his ears.

“YOU KILLED ME, YOU MONSTER.” another voice spoke.

“…I did not…” he spoke again.

“How dare you.” 

“YOU MONSTER.”  

“…I’m…not…a monster…” Clive called out.

“You’re NOT A Human...BUT A MONSTER.”

“…Help me…” he said helplessly.

“You don’t deserve to live.”

“DEMON.”

“BLOODY DEMON.”

“DIE, YOU DEMONIC CHILD.”

“YOU DESTROYED MY FUTURE, BECAUSE OF YOU. MONSTER”

“HELP ME… HELP ME…AGH…” Clive cried out in tears as a massive pain began to surge in his head, and he struggled to get rid of the various voices in his head. He fell onto the floor crying in pain, yet all of his desperate calls for help - filled with pain and sorrow - were met with silence, as no servants or shields came forth to assist him. For they too had "fear" towards the Infernal Eikon that laid within him.

After painfully listening to various haunting voices, one voice was different from the rest. It was eerily yet emotionless and began to taunt him,

“You cannot escape your sin, Son of the infernal beast of Mythos.”

 “NO…more…please…” Clive cried out as his agonizing sobs continued throughout the night.

Unbeknownst to him, however… 

—————

Somewhere in the far reaches of the north, a girl fervently prayed towards Metia’s red star, wishing that the infernal beast would remain free from loneliness and would perpetually protect her from danger. And above all. She yearned for him to be her beloved friend.

Chapter Text

——————

Somewhere in the storm continent, a nomadic swordsman and a young boy journeyed throughout the region as mercenary and apprentice. They fought off bandits and monsters or aided people for a price. But despite this, the mercenaries were feared by everyone, for they were on a quest for power to prevent themselves from losing what they had.  They treated themselves as expendable soldiers who must fight to protect what they hold dear.

Between the pair, there was a boy who called himself as Nidhogg. Born from southern region of Ash, he lost his parents to a monster raid, but his master saved him and took him under his wing to learn swordplay to fend for himself. 

He traveled throughout the twin realms with his master, until they temporary settled in Mysidia, where the master gained an employment by the tributary to fend off monsters that entered the village.  His other jobs were guarding the village and its inhabitants. 

Suddenly, Nidhogg's life took a turn when he and his master were invited to the northern territories’ capital, not only to protect the tributary and his family, but to celebrate the celestial wish festival that happened on the 7th day of the seventh moon. 

Eventually, the day came. Nidhogg, his master, and the tributary's family traveled from Mysidia and finally arrived to the northern territories’ capital to participate in the festival.

——————

Meanwhile, within the palace, Marleigh had finished dressing Jill in a soft lavender blue dress adorned with flowery embroidery specifically for the ceremony and festival celebration.

“Come along now, your highness. Your father will be expecting you for the ceremony.”

Jill looked up to her, and nodded silently as she held her nanny’s hand.  They began to walk towards the viewing balcony where her father awaited her.

——————

At the entrance doorway that led to the balcony, a single wish lantern was positioned in place and waiting to be released to the starry skies. The northern king melancholically gazed towards the lantern as he reminisced about his fond memories of Arwen and their happy times during the celestial star festival.  It was a time when they had their wishes granted by sending their lantern up to the sky, where it journeyed towards Metia’s home, where she will grant the people’s wishes.

Within minutes, his daughter arrived with Marleigh. 

“Thank you, Ms. Marleigh, you may leave now.” 

Marleigh bowed as she left the room. 

Jill approached her father, and attempted to give him a sweet smile. Geir, in contrast, observed her quietly and then took her hand as the father and daughter made their way to the balcony for the commencement of releasing the lanterns for the Celestial Star Festival. 

“Father?” Jill curiously asked Geir. 

“Hmm, What is it my child?” he replied. 

“Did you prepare your wish?” Looking at his daughter, he slightly smiled and nodded. 

Then he turned his attention to his people who are holding lanterns ready to release to the sky. 

“People of the Northern Territories, we are gathered here tonight to celebrate the Celestial Star festival, where we deliver our wishes to the celestial stream of stars that appear before us. Our ancestors presented their humble wishes to Metia and her divine deities by sending out special wish lanterns onto the Celestial night sky and into her abode. 

"Hear us, Goddess. "Hear our wishful prayers. "As we sent out our lanterns into the sky, may you and your deities accept our humble wishes and grant towards our people with hope, peace and prosperity. May the stars guide these lanterns to you.” 

Then Geir approached to the wish lantern alongside his daughter Jill as the father and daughter released it together into the starry sky. With the single wish lantern flying up to the sky, the people simultaneously released their lanterns as they gently flew up, joining into a cluster of lights. 

“May you enjoy the festivities of Celestial Wish festival!” cried Geir as the people cheered in response.

——————

As the festivities unfolded, Jill's longing to engage in the celebrations grew, encompassing everything from wandering through the stalls to witnessing the entertaining activities and performances. Yet, as a princess, she was acutely aware that she could not leave without the company of an attendant or guard, particularly due to the incident that transpired a year ago and the advice from Ysay. It was essential that her identity remained concealed from everyone except Jill. 

But her chance came when her godparents, the tributary of Mysidia and his wife, along with her god-siblings Shula and Famiel, arrived to meet them at the castle’s entrance. 

Jill pleaded to her father for permission in going with her god-siblings to the festivities. Geir, at first disliked the idea for letting his daughter go with her god-siblings. 

But then, the Tributary insisted that Jill’s safety and protection would fall under Shula. Since then, his daughter had undergone training with her father in wielding an axe and possessing great skills and strength in battle. Therefore she was in the path of becoming a formidable warrior and the future tributary of Mysidia.

With no other choice, Geir gradually gave in and placed Jill’s safety and protection to the tributary’s daughter. This delighted Jill as she hugged her father with a smile in her face.

Soon, the children left the adults as they made their way to the festivities grounds of the territories.

——————

With Shula leading her brother and the princess, they made their way to the lively streets where everything was decorated with lovely wish tags and paper stars that hung above people’s heads, numerous festive stalls that sells from different foods to various yet lovely charms, colorful flowers, and different hanging lanterns that range from large to small. 

Jill was stunned yet amazed as she held onto Shula’s hand excitingly and they wandered along the busy festive streets, having no idea where to begin. Soon her eyes wandered towards at the square, where a makeshift stage with performers were show casing musicals and performances. 

“Big Sister, Let’s go there.” Jill pointed towards the performers at the square. Shula glanced at the square as the performers began their magic trick. Nodding in acknowledgment, she led Jill and Famiel into the crowd, where they found some open seats to observe the unfolding performance. 

Amazingly, the performers were singing and acting as magical colors exploded on stage, Jill was elated how wonderful their singing and acting performance was, especially a magic trick that made her awed and how it changed shapes and colors.

——————

Afterward, the trio entered a variety of stalls, with Famiel starting to allocate some of his savings for food and souvenirs for his friends residing in Mysidia. Deciding to give their brother space to conduct his transactions, the two girls headed towards the enchanting stalls that showcased unique and attractive items. 

“So do you have anything in particular?” Shula asked the little princess. 

Jill shook her head as a sign that nothing came to mind, but then she spotted a lovely wish maker that hung alongside with other charms. 

"Oh, I want that one!" Jill exclaimed, directing her finger towards the delightful triangular charm that bore a resemblance to a dreamcatcher. This charm featured three outward points, each decorated with stars. The first point had one star, the second point had two stars, and the third point had three stars, evoking the idea of three wishes.

Shula gazed at the wishmaker charm and smiled at the princess, then she walked towards the stall to make a purchase. While Jill was anticipating her charm, she sees a young boy who looked at her keenly, captivated, yet unable to make an approach to her.  

“Hello," Jill remarked to the boy, who appeared to snap out of a trance upon noticing her. 

“Ah…Hello” the boy responded back but then shy away as she gave him a smile.

“What’s your name?”  Jill asked to the boy.

“My name, well my name is-” 

Just as he was about to introduce his name, Shula returned with the wishmaker charm. And sees Jill with Nidhogg and began to call to him. 

"Nidhogg, were you not alongside my father and your master? How is it that you find yourself in the company of her highness?"

Then Jill looked to Shula, then to Nidhogg

“Your name is Nidhogg?” asked Jill in curiosity.

The boy looked at Jill and nodded and then focused on Shula.

“Yes, but your father told me to find you and Famiel. And…her highness?” said Nidhogg as he focused on Jill.

“Oh, I forgot to introduce her to you, the princess of the entire territories of the north” said Shula as she walked next to Jill. 

“This is Jill Warrick of the Northern Territories, Daughter of King Silvermane and Queen Arwen. Therefore she’s the princess of the entire north." 

Upon hearing Shula’s statement, Nidhogg bowed. 

“It’s an honor to meet you, Princess” he greeted and rose up to his feet. Then Jill nodded in response, as the older girl gave the princess her wishmaker.

“Thank you, big sissy” Jill responded with a smile, 

Shula gave her a small smile, nodded then gazed towards the young warrior.

“Nidhogg, young warrior-in-training. I shall give you the task to look after the princess, while I’ll look for my good-for-nothing brother of mine somewhere in the stalls.”

Then Jill clung to Shula, and in response she knelt down before the young princess. “I understand, that your father placed my trust in protecting you. But don’t worry, you’re highness, I'll always be close to you while I look for Famiel.  Just trust that I can be by your side quickly if you need me."

Jill nodded as Shula gently shoved her to Nidhogg and ran towards the festive streets. Then Nidhogg approach her and placed his hand on her hair stroking her.

“Don’t worry I’ll protect you, from any harm.” said Nidhogg with a smile and proud tone.

“Alright” Jill replied in a shy yet meek tone.

Satisfied, Nidhogg gently grabbed her hand and ran towards the direction to the town square. But not before Jill pulled his hand as a sign for him to stop, indicating that she will not leave without Shula and Famiel. Understanding her, he led her to a nearby bench as the two sat together waiting for them.

Then Jill started to speak, “Nidhogg, are you willing to protect me?” 

The boy nodded and stood in front of her. “I’m willingly to protect you, my princess, because I wanted to protect everyone else from dangers that cause havoc across this land. I even have wishes in life.” 

Then Jill eyes and expression went to curiosity. “Then what are your wishes?” she asked.

“I have only three” Nidhogg answered, "My first wish, I would be the strongest hero warrior in all of Valisthea and maybe the world. Second, I will protect you and everyone else from danger that lurks within…" 

When Jill absorbed his words, they resonated as a beautiful wish and dream from a young boy who vowed to protect those he cherished with all his heart. His desire to safeguard her filled her with warmth, as it was apparent he would go to great lengths for protecting her. Still, she contemplated whether he, despite his youth, would be able to realize those noble intentions. 

"And my third wish would be my favorite…" Nidhogg said proudly. 

“Why is it your favorite?” Jill asked.

“Shula has revealed to me that this realm is afflicted by suffering. The Eternal Winter has taken its toll, and the Infernal Eikon terrorizes the land, instilling fear and sorrow in the hearts of the people as they are forced to surrender their maidens to this monster, who devours them without mercy. So my third wish is to defeat the infernal beast that terrorizes this land.” 

Then Jill’s eyes turn into sadness. She heard from her father and Marleigh that her people are suffering due to the eternal winter and the infernal beast. Two calamities that plague their tribal kingdom. She had no idea much about the eternal winter yet the she remembered the people feared about the beast’s existence. Should no one appease the monster, then her kingdom would be doomed to cold and cease to exist by its flames. Still, a memory came to her mind: a monstrous being offering its hand with a gentle look, which led her to view him differently. 

She wondered if it was lonely and alone like her. 

“Are you going... to defeat the beast?” Jill asked Nidhogg. The boy nodded and proudly state, “Yes, I will defeat the infernal beast so that I can lift the curse that terrorizes this land. And then, maybe you will be life partner.” 

“...Meaning?” she asked him. 

“One day, you will be my wife.” Nidhogg answered in elation as moved closer to her face. 

“Ewww!!” she reacted and playfully pushed him away, 

“I’m still a child!” said Jill as she covered her blushing red face. Nidhogg laughed and scratched the back of his head while Jill was still beet red.

Shortly thereafter, Shula appeared alongside Famiel, who was laden with his shopping souvenirs. The Mysidian siblings observed Jill with Nidhogg, prompting Famiel to erupt in laughter at the sight of Jill, whose face was flushed a deep red. 

In response, Shula struck Famiel on the head as she made her way toward Jill. 

“Milady, are you alright?” she asked to the blushing princess. 

The gray-haired princess slowly looked up to Shula, then scurried off as she hid behind her back from Nidhogg. Suspecting that her warrior friend did something to Jill, she glared at him, 

“Did you do something to the princess, Nidhogg?” she asked. 

“We were simply conversing about my wishes for the Celestial Star festival; I shared mine so I ask that she share hers."

Then Jill shook her head and starts pointing at him

“He said that I will be his wife” cried Jill as she clings to Shula

The Tributary’s daughter shook her head and crouched down to the princess.

Then Jill shook her head and pointed accusingly at him, “He said that I will be his wife!” cried Jill as she clung to Shula. 

The Tributary’s daughter shook her head and crouched down to the princess. “It’s alright, your highness, he’s just teasing you. He’s just a boy with his wildest imagination.” 

Then Jill’s eyes widened upon hearing that, then glared at him for making fun of her. "Then it was a poor joke!" 

“I’m sorry, I was joking your highness. I didn’t really mean it,” said Nidhogg as he gave the princess a heartfelt apology and bowed before her. 

Jill’s eyes began to soften, as a sign of forgiveness. Despite the fact that he enjoyed teasing her, his chivalric side in protecting her and her kingdom from the infernal monster gave her a sense of hope. 

Then she approached him and knelt to the same level as him. “I forgive you, Sir Nidhogg.” Hearing her soft voice, he elevated his head and was met with her gentle, smiling visage. In a trance-like state, Nidhogg understood that he had never before seen a princess—rather, an angel—who gazed at him with such captivating intensity. Then she took his hands and the two stood up together hand in hand. 

“Will you promise not to tease me again?” Jill asked to the young warrior. “Yes my lady” Nidhogg responded with a nod. 

Jill smiled and walked two steps backwards, “Since you shared your wishes. Then I’ll share mine... except the third one, since I didn’t made it yet.” 

“Alright, tell me, your highness. What are your wishes?” asked Nidhogg. 

As the princess and the young mercenary conversed. Shula and Famiel wondered if these two would be compatible with one another. For Famiel, he believed that Nidhogg and Jill would make a good couple and maybe the future king and queen of the northern territories.

...But in Shula’s case, it bothered her.

She was aware that her god-sibling was the chosen sacrificial offering for Rosaria’s Infernal Beast. It was knowledge that she acquired from her parents, but as a warrior and the future village leader of Mysidia, it was her obligation to protect her until the day of the sacrifice to the beast. 

And yet, seeing her with Nidhogg would make a good pair, but fate had other plans from the very beginning. Rather than ascending to the status of a crown princess of the north, she ultimately would serve as a sacrifice to the beast, whose presence was believed to quell the Eternal Winter that plagued the region. Despite this, Jill remained oblivious to this fact due to her young age and lack of understanding. She would eventually learn her fate when she turned twelve. 

"So what are your two wishes, huh?" Nidhogg asked. Jill nodded as she looked up to the celestial stream of stars.  

“My wish is that I want father to always love and spend time with me. My other wish is that all my friends, you, and all of my people to be safe and happy forever.” 

“I think it’s a good wish. Princess," said Nidhogg, “I might feel the same on your second wish. But I wonder what your third wish would be?”

Jill gazed to Nidhogg and then look back to the starry sky, but then suddenly her eyes widened as if she realized something. Soon tears rimmed in her eyes and fell down her cheeks. “Are...you...crying?” Nidhogg asked. Jill brushed away her tears and shook her head, but then she smiled and took his hand. 

"Come on, Nidhogg, join us for the rest of the festival night.” “Ok!” Nidhogg happily replied as the two ran towards Shula and Famiel. 

“Milady?” Shula asked the princess when she noticed Jill was holding Nidhogg’s hand. “We should move on to the festival," Jill suggested to her older sister figure and guardian, "Before my father and your parents start to feel concerned about our whereabouts.”

“I agree, let’s go Famiel,” Shula called her younger brother. Before long, the four were fully engaged in the jubilant celebrations of the Celestial Star Festival. Nevertheless, despite the festive spirit and the surrounding joy, Jill was struck by a profound sense of sadness and emptiness, as if she was aware of the missing presence of someone during the festivities. But she couldn't tell who or what it was. 

As hours passed, the festival comes to a close. Every stall began to pack up and the people dispersed back to their homes. Jill, Shula, Famiel, and Nidhog had returned to the castle where the adults were waiting for them.

Once Jill had said her goodbyes to Shula and her family, Marleigh and her father guided her to get ready for bed. While walking to the living quarters, Jill witnessed some servants and castle staff bowed before them as their king and princess. ...And yet, looking at her father, his demeanor remained serious and stern, yet maintaining an emotional distance to her while still holding her hand tightly. Marleigh followed closely behind Jill as Geir separated from his daughter upon arriving at his quarters. Seeing her father leave her made the girl sad, for she longed to build a loving relationship to her distant father, who grew stern to his subjects yet seemed to grieve whenever he was alone. Saddened, she entered her room with Marleigh behind her.

——————

“Marleigh? Why is my father always stern and cold to everybody but very sad when alone?” said Jill as Marleigh finished putting the princess her nightgown then sat to the bed next to her. 

Marleigh sighed and answered, “Your father’s sternness towards his people is a sign of his duty. He is to govern, rule, and protect them from dangers that may threaten your home. Yet, beneath his strong, harsh and unyielding gaze, there exists a profound kindness, love, and a history of suffering. He is a wise and strong king who understands the importance of his role and is empathetic to the hardships faced by his people.” 

Jill's eyes widened at this revelation. She reflected on her father, a stern figure who had faced numerous adversities that affected his people. As a child, she recognized that her father was striving to remain strong for her sake. He adopted a stern and distant demeanor through the eyes of the kingdom, yet beneath that mask was a man whose kindness and love for his people were restrained to prevent the impression of weakness in his role as king. 

“But why does he feel sad when he’s alone? He always cries then,” Jill asked again. In a moment of sadness, Marleigh bowed her head, overwhelmed by a memory of her treasured friend and queen. Also, she knew she would soon lose this child as an offering for the coming years of the Eternal Winter and the Infernal beast. 

“Your father endured hardship and suffering just like his people, but you will learn this someday… you must get to know the sorrows and the suffering of the people that caused them, your highness.” Jill remained silent, sinking into the pillows and cover, as Marleigh tucked the princess in and walked directly to the door. 

“Good night, your highness, and sweet dreams” 

“Good night Ms. Marleigh,” Jill answered as she snuggled up in the covers.

——————

After her nanny was gone, Jill opened her eyes and turned to the window, where the stars were bright in the moonlight. She sprang out of bed, grabbed her wishmaker from the night table, and made her way to the window seat. Once she sat down, Jill looks up to the stars and to her charm as she began to wish through her heart as she placed her fingers to the first wish point.

“My first wish is that all my friends, and all of my people, will be safe and happy forever.” 

And with that, she folded the first wish point. 

Then she placed her fingers onto the second wish point; two stars were on the second pointer. 

“My second wish is to understand my father's pain. I want to hold him close and express my love, so I can finally let my tears flow in his embrace instead of being strong like he is.”
Jill’s eyes started to rim with tears as the thought of hugging her cold and distant father might make him feel better and herself as well.

“It's...ok to…cry. When…you’re…sad.” Jill sniffed as she folded second wish point. Wiping away her tears, she touched the third wish point, ready to fulfill her final wish.

Jill was still unsure about her third wish. As she thought back, her budding friendship with Nidhogg was just sweet as a puppy love for he exhibited his sweet, chivalric yet funny side that made her smile... and yet she remembered the lonely beast who had been kind to her. She hadn’t seen him or questioned if he was just playing with her heart. But in the end, she knew he wasn’t a bad monster, but a lonely individual.

Her mind made up, she placed her finger to third and last star pointer.

“My third wish, I want Metia to continue to protect the beast. Let her guide me to the one I should be with... forever. Someone who needs to love and be loved in return.”

She folded the last wish pointer, and a stray tear fell on her wooden charm. Looking up at the stars, she held her wishmaker up, hoping her three wishes would be fulfilled upon the celestial sky...

It was not long before she stood up and walked back to her bed. She set her wishmaker down beside the nightstand and then climbed into her covers, enveloping herself in its warmth.

As she drifted toward slumber, she contemplated whether the beast had ever gazed upon the starlit sky or if he had ever made a wish. Nevertheless, she was certain that he was observing the same celestial expanse as she, nurturing the hope that Metia would continue to safeguard him and that he would become her companion.

Jill's thoughts brought a smile as she drifted into slumber, wishing to meet Ysay in her dreams, where she might ask about the nature of the infernal beast's disposition towards her.

——————

Simultaneously, in a land far away, a boy brought his younger sibling to the balcony of Rosaria’s castle. The infant, captivated by the stars, reached out his tiny hand towards them. 

The elder brother observed the shimmering sky and then shifted his gaze to his baby brother. 

“I wish that you will never leave me Joshua. Please do not hate me, you’re the only family that I have left.” 

He lovingly kissed his younger brother on the forehead, prompting a gentle coo in response. With a smile, the boy looked up at the stars again.

The boy wished that one day, that there will be someone who will love him and accept him from who he is. and the beast that slumbered within him.

Chapter Text

“Ysay? Are you here?”

Deep within the winter forest, Jill wandered through the vast woodlands in searching for her spiritual friend. Amidst the towering trees she called out her name, yet there was no response, only the stillness of the breeze and howling winds of blizzard.

With a sense of disappointment, she began to retrace her steps, when suddenly she noticed a familiar silhouette walking through the vast winter trees. Believing to be Ysay, the princess began to trek towards the treacherous path that will lead to her.

“Ysay. Wait! Wait for me...” Jill called out to her as she ran.

Foot by foot, the princess steadily make her way through the tallest trees which boasted larger roots, to a narrow steep path that’s challenging to traverse and finally crossing the raging icy rivers through stepping stones.

At long last, she found herself in the clearing; however, rather than Ysay, there stood a massive fiery rock in the snowy landscape. It had two large, rocky branches and a huge, root-like tail on the side. The giant fire rock's rough and unyielding texture was highlighted by the lava that streamed through its vast body.

Jill’s eyes widened upon seeing a massive object in a place like this. Slowly but surely she made her way towards the imposing giant pillar made of fire. As she approached, Jill observed a brilliant glow and lava cascading from the front, resembling a pair of arms and legs.

Tilting her head on the side, she began to curiously touch its rough fiery surface. Still, Jill felt apprehensive upon feeling its intense temperature. But nevertheless she closed her eyes and let her hand touch its hot surface... To her surprise, she opened her eyes and noted the absence of a burn on her hand; instead, she felt only a cool sensation and a rough texture.

Intrigued, she leaned in for a closer examination and observed that the rock featured notably sharp protrusions along its arms and legs, accompanied by claws on its hands and feet. Rushing to the rear, she reached out to touch the root-like tail and followed it upward, where she discovered long white strands cascading down its back.

Jill’s eyes widened upon learning the gigantic volcanic rock’s appearance, she ran back in front and looked upward. There she noticed the rock bore a beast-like face adorned with sharp fangs. This gave her a quick scare, but she stood her ground without fear, for she believed the giant volcanic rock was an inanimate statue of a monster.

“I’m not afraid of you” Jill remarked to the silent statue. “You can be scary towards everyone. But you don’t scare me” The volcanic statue remained silent and still as Jill kept speaking to it. “I’ll prove it”

Summoning her courage, she carefully went onto the giant statue’s back and proceed to climb on it, taking care to avoid contact with the jagged rocks on its back. Despite the scrapes on her hands and knees from her ascent, she eventually found herself resting onto its left shoulder allowing her to see its side face.

After resting she resumed climbing upwards til at last she settled above its head in between its two large rocky branches.

"I did it!" Jill shouted with joy, feeling like she had reached the top of a mountain. But her celebration was cut short when she suddenly heard a growl nearby.

Hearing a growl, she turned her head from side to side but found no one. In an instant, she felt a strong tremor where she was standing, making her lose her footing and drop onto her bottom.

As Jill glanced down, she saw the volcanic statue come to life. It lifted itself onto its hind legs, then its body began to radiate with fire and started to howl skyward.

Recognizing its massive fiery appearance, Jill realized that the volcanic statue she climbed was the same monstrous beast that chased her and Ysay throughout the forest. Although, she only recalled back how the beast changed its expression upon seeing her, reaching to her, and telling her that it had found her.

Nevertheless, she was abruptly intervened and jumped into the river, which guided her back to reality, while the beast remained consumed by rage and sorrow. Jill sensed the creature's anguish and suffering echoing within her, leading her to develop a sense of compassion for the beast.

Following its howl, Jill carefully rose to her feet and began to descend carefully from its head to its snout. She approached silently and reached out to touch the area between its closed eyes….

Suddenly its eyes shot open, and they focused intently on the young girl who awakened it. …Then they widened upon recognizing its intruder.

“It’s you, I finally found you.”

Stricken with fear, Jill stumbled but quickly regained her footing and attempted to escape. Yet, the beast acted fast by shaking its head off to remove her from its face.

The fleeing young princess managed to catch hold of the beast's nose to prevent herself from toppling over. However, the creature let out a powerful snort, leading to Jill losing her grip and falling away.

"AAAHHHHH!" the princess's voice echoed as she fell off from the beast's head.

Unexpectedly, the monstrous beast caught her in its enormous, clawed hand. With Jill safely in its grasp, the creature observed the young princess who cowered away from him.

The beast purred and gently nuzzled on the trembling princess.

“Happy Birthday, Milady”

As the beast's voice resonated in her thoughts, Jill was taken aback and lowered her arms in surprise when the fiery entity wished her a Happy Birthday.

“Thank you. Y-you knew my birthday?” Jill asked to the infernal beast

The creature nodded, then Jill responded with a smile while looking at him with interest. Drawn in by its captivating blue eyes and wolf-like facial structure, she reached out her hand, desiring to curiously caress its large muzzle against her small hand. The beast conceded, bringing its head down so that she could gently touch its muzzle. 

As Jill's hand brushed against the beast's muzzle, it peacefully shut its eyes, experiencing the tender touch of a child. Jill, in turn, felt a sense of tranquility, reassured that the beast posed no threat to her…

However, their peaceful moment didn't last long as the beast's eyes suddenly opened, instead of blue, they glowed a fiery topaz. Jill startled as it began to snarled and growled loudly at the princess. Fire engulfed around its body, as the creature roared at the startled princess who began to scream in fear as it began to burn her.

---------

With a gasp, Jill's eyes opened wide as she sat up in bed. At her left was a concerned Marleigh who started to rub her back. “Milady? She asked to the terrified girl. “Ma-Marleigh?” Jill panted as she covered her face in anxiety. “"Did you have a nightmare, your highness ?” Marleigh asked to the anxious little princess. Without saying a word, Jill nodded, withdrawing her hands from her face and directing her gaze towards her nanny. Tears flowed from her eyes as she regained her breath. “I-I’m alright, I’m just-"

Then Marleigh enveloped the princess with a hug and comforted her “It’s alright child, nothing will harm you…you’re just having a bad dream, nothing but a dream.”

To Jill, the occurrence was not a mere dream; it seemed profoundly real. Despite she didn’t meet up with Ysay, instead she had a second encounter with the beast. Though it might be deemed disrespectful to awaken it, the creature had expressed that it had ‘found her.’ Rather than being hostile to her, it acted kindly by greeting her with a “Happy birthday”. She was surprised that a beast knew her birthday and attempted to create a bond with her.

But their moment was interrupted when the beast’s eyes turned topaz, and its friendly and gentle demeanor changed into a savage and unmerciful monster. This encounter cast doubt in her mind.

Was the fiery creature's savage disposition the reason for its wild actions, or was it being manipulated by an entity that lay within him? ...But those thoughts would be for another time as she released Marleigh and climbed out of her bed, going into the washing area where a lukewarm water awaited her in the tub. 

 “Milady, given that today is your fifth nameday, your father is looking forward to seeing you at breakfast.  It is now time for your bath.”  Jill nodded as she proceeded to start her special day.

---------

Once bathed and dressed by Marleigh and the other female attendant, Jill was escorted to the royal dining hall to have breakfast with her estranged father. Despite it being her birthday, she questioned whether he would take the time to acknowledge her, or if he would continue to mourn his own losses. 

“Good Morning, father, Jill greeted meekly yet calmly in spite of seeing her distant father eating his breakfast alone.

As she sat in her dining chair, a maid set a plate of sunny-side eggs, grilled fish, mashed potatoes, and fresh blueberries in front of her. Seeing her food served, Jill began to pray silently for thanksgiving before she starts eating her breakfast.

“Good Morning my child. Happy Birthday” Geir greeted with a small smile.

"Thank you, Father," Jill responded, shifting her focus from her food to him.

“Well, My dear. Do you want to spend the whole day in Mysidia with your god-family like every year?” Geir asked to his daughter.

This information caused Jill to become frustrated and shook her head in response. 

“No, Father...I don’t want to”

Through nearly every birthday she celebrated, she enjoyed the company of her god-family in Mysidia, partaking in sun-filled activities such as swimming in the lakes or visiting the beaches. While she may be familiar with the traditions of Mysidia, including tribal water dancing and various rituals, her deepest desire has always been to share a moment with her estranged father, with whom she has never celebrated her special day. 

“Then what do you want to spend on your birthday? He asked her again.

“Can I spend my birthday with you? I've never been able to before.” 

Hearing these words from his daughter, Geir looked back at Jill in shock.

“You want to spend time with... me?” 

Jill nodded and smiled.

“I wanted to share my happiness with you. I also wanted to know more of you…I don’t want you to be alone and sad on my birthday. You always suffered and cried and I wanted you to be happy for me, please father…. For me?” 

Seeing his daughter, and listening to her pleas, Geir closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose as he began to think. Looking at her father as he thought, Jill sighed, disappointed. She knew what she said would make father stressed, souring his mood as she resume her breakfast.

Within minutes, he answered her question.

“That would be delightful, my child…” 

Hearing this, Jill looked up from her plate and smiled. Then she stood from the table and dashed towards her father and hugged him tightly.

“Thank you. Papa.” Said Jill as she embraced him tighter. 

While his smiling daughter hugged him, Geir felt a wave of joy surged through his heart. Seeing Jill’s smile reminded him of his deceased wife, though she resembles Arwen in her looks and kindness yet she inherited his enigmatic silver gray hair.

Though his daughter’s innocent smiles gave him a recollection of his deceased wife’s loving smile. He wondered if Jill will ever know her mother since her birth was the same day she passed away.

He didn’t realized that Jill wanted to spend time with him, rather than spending time with her god-family in Mysidia. He wondered if she’s here to alleviate the pain, the sorrow and the grief that consumed him on her birthday.

For a moment like this. Geir knew he wanted his daughter to be happy. A promise he made with Arwen before her passing and before his daughter’s departure to the House of the Sacred offering after her sixth nameday.

Chapter Text

"Father, would you like to play with me…?” 

“Papa, look outside, it's snowing…” 

“Father, will you read me a story...?” 

“Papa, can I see your office…?” 

“Papa…” “Father…”

Geir was overwhelmed by a wave of memories as he recalled the sound of his daughter's voice calling for him throughout the years. Every year, while she celebrated her birthday in Mysidia with her god-family, he remained alone, grieving for Arwen. He intended to send Jill again to Mysidia like every other year instead of being with him, a grieving widower who silently mourned at his beloved's grave.

Eventually, he will lose his daughter the day after her sixth birthday when the wise elders will move her to the House of the Sacred Offering. There, she will be prepared as the sacred maiden, destined to be a holy sacrifice for her people and their kingdom.

But his daughter chose to stay, and celebrate her birthday with him during the northern region's longest night: the Winter Solstice. The same long night that his beloved Arwen gave birth and died.

———————

Following breakfast in the dining hall, the father and daughter arrived at a humble chapel room, the darkened space aglow with the ethereal light of the moon. This is where Jill offered her prayers to Metia. Geir observed his daughter praying towards the ancient relics of the goddess of mercy in a shrine altar. In a sudden moment, he saw Arwen's likeness in Jill as she prayed at the altar. 

Tears brimmed in his eyes as he thought back to the day when he and Arwen had prayed for a child. Now, as he observed his daughter praying to Metia, it stirred memories of his dear queen, who had faithfully visited the small chapel daily, seeking Metia's protection and safety for their people. 

After Jill finished her prayers, she stood up and looked at her father who was in a verge of tears. “Don’t cry, Father...” “I’m not crying my child, I’m just…overwhelmed.” Geir said as he wiped his tears. 

“What is over…whelmed?” asked Jill, tilting her head innocently. Then Geir knelt to his child and placed a hand on her shoulder. “Overwhelm means to make someone feel a sudden and intense emotion. In other words, I am full of happiness.” 

“Aah, Ok,” said Jill as she understood her father’s answer and smiled. "Let's go, Father! I’m excited to explore the city and look at the kingdom.” Geir stood up and nodded to his daughter as she ran ahead to get her winter clothes, readying for her venture beyond the walls of her castle home within the long nights of winter.

———————

The streets of the kingdom's capital were busy and vibrant. People went about their daily lives, with merchants offering weapons and items for sale, and food being served to the hungry locals and citizens. In the bustling streets, Geir and his daughter Jill, now clad in winter cloaks, strolled through the thoroughfare accompanied by three guards. The townsfolk glance up and begin to offer their greetings. 

Geir waved back to the people and Jill did her best to copy her father. Then, a woman stepped up to them, with a wreath of winter flowers in her grasp. “This is for you, your highness” said the lady as she placed the flower wreath upon Jill’s head. “Thank you,” Jill gently replied with a smile. The lady and the people in her vicinity executed a courteous bow to both the princess and the king. Thereafter, Geir gave them a small smile and gestured with a nod, encouraging his subjects to stand. Following this, the king and his daughter resumed their walk through the streets with the latter walking faster than the former. 

Suddenly she spotted a familiar face in the streets. “Nidhogg?” When the boy heard his name, he turned to see Jill standing with her father, the king, and a group of guards. “Jill!” he called out to her, 

Suddenly, he realized her father, the northern king, was with her. He came to a stop and bowed to them. Geir approached the young boy. “Rise, young Nidhogg.” The boy rose up and looked towards the king. “I see, you have journeyed from Mysidia with your master, haven’t you?”

Geir approached towards the young boy.

“Rise, young Nidhogg” 

The boy rose up and looked towards the king

“I see, you have journeyed from Mysidia with your master, haven’t you?”

Nidhogg responded with a nod, "Yes, your majesty. He is currently in a meeting with a client, and I was running some errands for him. I was on my way back when the princess called to me." 

The young mercenary boy approached Jill and bestowed upon her a captivating dreamcatcher, richly decorated with flowers, appealing stones, and precious jewels. “Happy birthday, my princess,” Seeing this made Jill smile, and she accepted the gift from him.

“It’s beautiful, I loved it” said Jill as she hugged him. Nidhogg blushed upon being hugged and hearing her compliment. Geir placed his hand on his head and patted it.

“My, you and Jill are getting quite close in the past few years.” 

Nidhogg smiled and nod with agreement, then Jill released from their hug. “Did you make this with Shula and Famiel?” 

“No, but they do helped me” said Nidhogg as he scratched his head. 

The princess stifled a laugh with her hand over her mouth. “What’s so funny?” Nidhogg asked Jill. “Hehe, I believe big sister Shula did the crafting, and you and Famiel collected the flowers and feathers.” 

“Hey!” Nidhogg exclaimed as his face turned red while Jill continued to giggle upon her statement, Then Geir chuckled along, and the guards who accompanied them had never heard their king chortled since the death of the queen. 

“I’m kidding, I’m glad you made this for my birthday, Thank you.” said Jill. 

"You are most welcome." Following this, Nidhogg stepped toward her, knelt before her, and grasped both of her hands. “My lady…” 

Just as he was about to kiss it, Jill took her hands away in shock. Witnessing this caused Geir to grew serious and walk over to his daughter. “Jill…. Nidhogg is extending his courtesy to you, and you must embrace the tradition of courteousness.” 

“…But…” Geir then cast a frigid, stern glance at his daughter, causing Jill to tremble in defeat as she extended her hands toward Nidhogg, who honored her with a kiss of respect. Then she lets go of his hands and hung her head low as she return to her father’s side.  

Having parted ways with Nidhogg as he returned to his master, Jill remained silent throughout the duration as sadness plagued in her heart. Each time her father saw her or any of their subjects, he gave a cold, unwavering look. She believed his indifference to his people was a sign of his strength as a king, but the coldness he showed her was a different matter.

While they strolled through the shopping grounds, her downcast eyes were attracted to a simple bakery stall that offered their signature Choco Log. This warm dessert cake, created from Genovese cake and chocolate buttercream, has a bark-like texture and is topped with a delicate layer of powdered sugar.

Craving a slice of cake, she let go of her father's hand and ran to the stall, enchanted by the beautiful log cake and wishing a piece would cheer her up. 

Eventually, the lady at the counter noticed her and offered a slice, carefully wrapped in a napkin. After Jill accepted the cake wrapped in a napkin, she reached for her pouch to settle the payment.

“How much would that cost?”

The lady smiled to the princess.

“No charge my dear, it’s not every day that I get to feed royalty.” 

Then Geir approached to the counter where Jill stood.

“Oh, your majesty, I bid you welcome to our humble shop.”

The lady curtsey gracefully to her king, and her husband, who was a baker, came from the back and immediately showed his respect with a bow without falling a tray of a newly baked cob breads.

Jill observed the baker and his wife bowing to her and her father. Then Geir gestured them to raise their head.  Shortly thereafter, Jill took her father's hand and led him to a nearby table where they could sit, while the lady and her husband smiled at the young princess as she led him there.

Even though her position as a princess entitled her to free treats and respect, she frequently pondered her privileged upbringing against the backdrop of her people's ordinary lives. Nonetheless, she gained a better understanding of common life by attentively watching the castle servants and engaging with them quietly in her father's absence.

While tea and cake were being served, Geir observed his daughter enjoying a bite of her cake. He thought about how much he wished Arwen could have been there to see their daughter grow and to share moments as the loving family he always desired, instead of losing them. 

“Father?”

Then Geir thoughts was disrupted upon hearing Jill’s voice. 

"Yes, my little one," Geir said to his daughter who had just polished off her cake. 

"Why does everyone show us such respect, and then I ended up getting something for free?" Jill asked while enjoying her tea. 

“Sweet Jill, you are a princess among the united tribes of the northern territories. You were born with the royal heritage of the First Rulers: the founding king and queen of the snow. They lead and unite the northern tribes with a firm spirit and a caring heart. The people respect us because we are the descendants of those said rulers.” 

Jill's eyes filled with amazement upon hearing it, yet she quickly turned to ask another question when she noticed a woman purchasing bread for her family. Alongside her was a young boy, her son, who was gazing at the array of pastries.

“Father, since I’m a princess and you are king, does that mean my mother was the queen?” 

“Yes, your mother was the queen of the north, but…” 

“But what happened, what happened to mother?”

Geir felt a deep sadness wash over him as the question hit him, tears filling his eyes as he remembered the night his wife passed away after Jill was born. It was a cruel coincidence that his daughter's birthday and his wife's death fell on those long winter nights.

When Jill saw her father crying she stood up from her chair and went near him. “Father, don’t cry... Mother will be sad if you keep crying...” Then she reached out for her embroidery cloth and wiped her father’s tears.

As his daughter gave him comfort, he picked up on a warm familiarity from Jill, a feeling that reminded him of Arwen, which he sensed through his daughter. He knew her spirits lived through his daughter. “I’m sorry, my daughter," Geir remarked, "but thank you."

Jill smiled as she successfully soothed her father’s sorrow and began to ask the question. “What did mother look like, and what happened to her? 

Geir said, "I'll tell you about a place I want to show you, but first, we need to finish our tea and cake." As he enjoyed his piece of cake, Jill felt a rush of excitement knowing her father would take her somewhere special on her birthday on the long nights of winter.

———————

Later, Father and daughter reached a beautiful forest clearing on the outskirts of the kingdom. Jill was awestruck at the wintery landscape where snow covered the entire forest. 

“It’s beautiful, father,” said Jill in amazement as she ran and danced in circles like a snow fairy frolicking in the snow. Then she plopped down and lay on the snow while giggling. Geir gently smiled at his daughter as he helped her stand up and dusted snow off her cloak.

“Father, the snow in the forest is so pretty.” 

“Indeed... It’s so beautiful.” Geir agreed. “This is where I first met your mother.”

The Jill eyes widened upon hearing those words. “This beautiful forest. Is this, where you met mother?" she asked.

Geir nodded and picked up his five year old daughter. “When I first met your mother, she was beautiful, gentle, kind, and devoted to Metia. Her beauty was like that of a forest nymph. She had a lovely voice that attracted all the animals, who would come to listen to her sing. She was a nature’s blessing.” 

Filled with wonder, Jill started to think about whether her mother was an actual forest nymph or a human living in the wilderness. But she knew her mother was very special to her father. “Father, do you love mother?”

Geir nodded and looked towards a snow covered pine tree. “I do, I love her so much."

Subsequently, Jill posed another question. "Then why…why did she leave you?"

In that moment, Geir remained silent upon hearing his daughter's question. He was aware that his beloved queen risked everything to bring Jill into the world, yet he couldn't reveal the truth to her. It would only cause her great sorrow..

“Father…Did mama returned to Metia?” 

Geir’s eyes widen upon hearing those words and looked towards his daughter. “Yes, but how did you-

Then, Jill took one step away from her father, placing her hands over her heart. 

”Mother... I felt her spirit, in the wind, the waters, and everywhere where spirits enveloped the nature around us. She whispered to me saying, "I will always be in your heart, my child. Let that lead you to your destiny. Tell your father…. I love him dearly."

Hearing those words from his daughter’s mouth, Geir couldn't help but wonder if Jill had developed a strong sense of communicating with nature and the spirits around her, but hearing his beloved Arwen’s words from his daughter made his heart swell with sadness and longing for his wife.

The Northern king knelt to his daughter and pat her hand. “Jill, have you ever talked to your mother spiritually whenever you’re alone?” “Mhm,” Jill nodded meekly. “Did you ever get lonely?" Geir remorsefully asked to his daughter again. “Mhm” Jill nodded again, “I am. But, because you are here with me. I am not anymore.” Then Geir gave a remorse smile to his daughter, then stroked her hair gently and fondly. “Are you happy that I’m here with you to spend time on your birthday?” “Mhm,” Jill nodded and sadly smiled.

“I see, Jill. I’ve been not a good father to you over these past years. Merely focusing on ruling the kingdom without knowing you were there. I’m sorry, my little Jill. I will do my best from now on. Because I love you my daughter...” 

As Jill listened to his apology, a wave of emotions rose up inside her, nearly overwhelming her. She had been holding back her feelings for a long time, especially since her father had been in a state of constant sadness. 

The cold air grew silent as she lowered her gaze, tears gathering in her eyes, and she began to sniff. 

“…Father…You know…”

“Yes, my child?” Geir gently asked his weeping daughter. 

“Is it ok…if I don’t…sniff I don’t….have to hold it anymore, right? Because, when…I…sniff…when…I cry…you always…give me sniff…a cold look…in your eyes…And...at...last…I can…”

Without delay, Jill ran into Geir's arms, clinging to him firmly as she cried against his shoulder. Feeling his daughter in his arms, Geir began to broke down and sobbed, clinging to Jill firmly as they both cried in each other’s arms.

“I’m sorry…I’m…so…sorry Jill” Geir sobbed as his daughter continuously cried in his arms. While the father and daughter wept, the northern lights began to swirl in the sky. Jill noticed and lifted her teary gaze to behold the magnificent aurora.

“Father…its Mother! She’s here…she’s really here.” Geir focused his gaze upward, entranced by the beautiful aurora lights. He came to understand that the spirits of their northern ancestors had blessed them with this awe-inspiring sight in the winter night sky. He felt that Arwen’s spirit was present, observing their daughter from above as she grew from a fragile baby, into a sweet young girl.

A stray tear escaped from Geir’s eye as he felt his beloved wife hugging him and their daughter together. Jill was right, her spirit flows within the nature and life that surrounds them. 

“You are here, I feel you.” Geir mouthed without speaking as he and his daughter continuously gazed towards the northern light where the spirits of those who passed on danced above the eternal winter night.

Soon, the moon rose from the side of the mountains, creating a beautiful spectacle between the moon’s ethereal beam and the wave of aurora lights. Geir comfortingly sat on a small snowy hill while watching his daughter as she played in the snow.  He gazed up at the Aurora light dancing with the moon and Metia’s star, and with a warming smile he called out his daughter.

“Jill, come here my child”

Hearing his voice, Jill stopped playing and rush towards her father 

“What is it Papa?” Said Jill as she ran to her father.

“Do you want to hear more about your Mother?” 

Jill smiled and nodded, as she scrambled and sat on her father’s lap.

“Tell me, more about mother...Is she beautiful like a forest nymph and brave as warrior?”

The Northern king smiled and pat his daughter’s head, “Heh, well where should I begin…Well mother was a lot like you: beautiful and brave.” Jill eyes widened in glee and amazement as she keenly listened to his story about a young northern king who fell in beautiful maiden who lived in a forest. 

Geir found spending time with his daughter to be a precious experience. Despite the challenges of his leadership role and the need to uphold a strong facade, he valued these moments. He wished they could last forever, knowing that in the coming year, she would be taken away to the sacred house to be trained as a sacrificial offering for the infernal beast in Rosaria, which awaited her to bless her people and land with the Eternal flame. 

Chapter Text

Jill inhaled sharply as her eyes flew open and sat up. The princess found herself alone in a dark labyrinth that resembled a prison dungeon in the castle's lower levels. Curiously looking around on its gloomy surroundings, Jill stood up and started to walk forward in hoping to find her way out of its dark dungeon. 

“Help me…Help me...”

Jill stopped in her tracks as she heard a cry of help. 

“Help me...Help me...”

The princess looked around to find the voice who called for help. But then a chorus of voices began to echo the hall. 

“Child, Help us...”

“Little, one, help us...”

“Don’t go towards fire...”

“It will kill you, like the rest of us...”

Jill eyes widened, then she looked towards a dungeon cell. Out of the shadows, a terrified brunette maiden whose hair was wreathed with flowers, barefooted, and donning a white dress, gripped on the iron bars and looked at the little princess. 

“Little one, help me, the beast shows no mercy on us.”

Seeing a terrified woman in a cage, Jill fearfully backed away until her back touched another cage in the dungeon, at that moment a hand touched her shoulder. Jill shrieked and turned around, seeing another maiden whose shoulder-length hair was black as night. Like the brunette maiden, she was terrified, barefooted, and wore a flower wreath and a white dress.

“Help me, please, I don’t want to burn away”

The princess looked in horror upon the frightened woman. Then she turned her head and saw various women coming out from the shadows in their cells, all barefooted with a white dress and a wreath on their heads.

“Save yourself, little one,” said one. 

“Your future will be shattered by that monster,” said another. 

“Don’t be tempted by its honeyed words,” said the maiden with a fearful voice. “Little child please, I don’t want you to be eaten,” said one woman whose dress was soaked in blood. 

“Save us.” 

“Help us.” 

“Avenge us.”

Hearing all the horrified women in their cells pleading their cries towards the young girl, Jill shook her head vigorously as she began to cover her ears and run for the exit door.

“Whatever steps you take, that malicious entity will trick you and take your spirit to feed its needs, just like rest of us.”

Hearing a familiar voice, Jill stopped and turned her head to the last cell near to the exit and gasped upon seeing Ysay approaching her from the shadows. She was wearing the same garment like the rest of the women.

“Ysay? why are you there? And who are they?” Jill asked, pointing to the cells.

The stoic woman closed her eyes in composure and looked towards the young girl.

“Those were your predecessors, whose souls were diminished and offered to the infernal Eikon in order to appease its wrath. In return, it will provide our northern home with the blessing flame that soothes the fury colds of winter. 

And you, my child, you are destined to be the 30th sacrifice for the beast that dwelled in the south.”

“Why? Why would I be sacrificed?"

Just as Ysay began to answer, the room began to feel cold as a strong blizzard engulfed the hallway. The young princess began to shiver as she began to wrap herself for warmth and crouched down to the ground.

As Jill withstood the cold, a voice that was glacial yet feminine came to her ears. “You and your predecessors are my chosen incarnations, born in the northern winters. I, Shiva, met my demise due to the fury of mortals after they tried to slay the infernal beast Ifrit...Oh, my beloved Ifrit... Why?”

Then the voice changed into a sad tone that resembled a sad song: "Why did the other gods blame and banish him? Why did they call him the bringer of calamity? It’s not his fault…. It isn’t his fault.”

Eventually, the room turned colder, and Jill kept shivering, covering her ears for warmth as the cold, feminine voice continued to resonate in her mind. Her hunched body felt cold as she closed her eyes, enduring the frigid temperature…

-------

Suddenly, she sensed a soft nudge against her, and the freezing snowstorm surrounding her started to fade. Glancing up, she noticed a large wolf with fur that was white tinged with blue staring at her with its luminous eyes. With a slow and stiff motion, Jill gently touched the wolf's face, and it reciprocated by rubbing against her and gently licking her cold face.

Standing up and clearing the snow from her dress, the princess looked around and recognized that she was no longer in the hallways of the dungeon. Instead, she found herself in a dark cave where stalactites and straw emerged from the ceilings and stalagmites emerging from the ground while some formed in the flowstone formation.

Looking at the wolf, the canine stared at her deeply as it started to walk off. But then it paused and looked back at her.  “You want me to follow you?” Jill asked. 

It barked in response, prompting Jill to follow the enigmatic spirit. They silently explored the cavern with the wolf's bright fur illuminating the dark path, and its fierce eyes allowing them to see in the shadows. 

While clinging onto the animal for protection, the six-year-old princess pondered her thoughts about whether this mysterious wolf was her animal spirit, guiding her towards her destiny. A year ago, her father, the northern king, taught her that their people were born to have a spirit animal to guide them, comfort them, and stand by their side.

As the idea of enjoyment crossed her mind, Jill started to scratch the wolf spirit's ear, which caused the canine to pant with joy and wag its tail vigorously. In turn, the wolf began to lower itself to its laying position which gave Jill the opportunity to push the wolf gently exposing its furry tummy and began to playful rubbing it.

The princess smiled and laughed as she played the majestic wolf spirit by rubbing its tummy, causing it to react with a happy pant and tail wagging. After a while, the satisfied wolf stood up and looked to the girl.  It suddenly gave her a kiss through its licks to which Jill giggled back in response and gave him ruffles in the head and face.

Unexpectedly, the wolf caught a sound of a cry emanating from afar and cocked its head towards it. 

“What’s wrong?” Jill asked to the wolf.  Then, she looked towards the path and heard the sound of someone sobbing and crying.  

"Is someone crying?" Jill asked, showing concern.

The wolf quickly leaned down, allowing Jill to get on its back. Once Jill was on the wolf's back, she clung to its fur as it hurried off to discover the source of the sound.

Soon, they arrived at the cave’s clearing.

However, Jill found herself attracted to the scene when she noticed large crystals in red topaz and vivid orange that brightened the dark cave, some even reflecting in the water. Then, her eyes moved to a figure who was sobbing, sitting on the ground with his head down between his knees.

Climbing down from the wolf's back, Jill cautiously approached the sobbing figure and discovered it was a boy who appeared to be around three years older than her. Curiously she walked towards him and noticed he had horns that faced backwards on his head, and his arms were protrusions made of lava rock along his claw hands. Looking below him, she noticed his feet weren’t human, and he had a long tail. 

Jill wondered if the animal spirit had guided her to this miserable boy. A boy born to a misguided and lonely fate as a monster or beast lingering inside of him. Feeling sorry, she knelt in front of him looking at him with concern. “Are you crying?” 

Hearing her voice, the half-beast, half-human boy looked to her with tears in his blue eyes and nodded.

"I made someone suffer --no-- I made everyone suffer." He spoke to her with sorrow. 

Jill tilted her head in curiosity and concern. “Why would you cause suffering to everyone?”

Suddenly, he shot an angry glare at Jill, making him stand up and growl, startling her. In his frustration, he displayed his clawed hands and feet to her.

"Can’t you tell? I’m a MONSTER! I am born to bring pain and misfortune to others. They loathe me, hate me, and scorn me as the harbinger of destruction, devastation and death. All my life, I’ve been spat at, blame, and being hunted like a wild animal.

Then he looked at his clawed hands and enclosed into a fist

“Is this my life? To be born as a monster that will only bring destruction and death to the world?

“Why was I fated to be like this?”

"Did I truly deserve this?"

“Why was I hated and called me an outcast?”

Then he turned to Jill in anguish as he covered his face with his hands as he begin to sob.

“…Tell me, do you hate me…for being a monster?”

Jill found herself unresponsive and filled with remorse. She observed a boy older than herself, who was crying out in anguish and anger at being born of a monster instead of a human. Yet, deep within her heart, she understood that he was not a monster, but a poor soul yearning for genuine love and the opportunity to be loved in return. 

Despite recalling the maidens' warnings, like Ysay's, she wanted to ignore him.  But looking at how sad and angry he was, she recognized there was more to him than just a monster or beast.

Jill shook her head, and with tears brimming in her eyes she started to feel sorry for him.

She reached out to him by placing her hands gently above his 

“Don’t cry, I don’t hate you.” 

As he heard her voice, he uncovered his face in disbelief as Jill gently cupped his face with her hands.

“I am grateful that you are born to this world, I never see you as a monster. I see you as a special person that no one has ever seen.” 

Then she closed her eyes as her forehead touched his.

“I know that’s you’re lonely because of the beast laid inside of you. But you are not born to destroy or cause misfortune, but someone who can learn to love and loved in return. And I’m not afraid...”

Then Jill kissed his forehead and then to his nose causing the inhuman boy to cry once more with gratitude and relief. He looked into her eyes, and with no hesitation, he pulled her into his embrace.

“Thank you” the tearful boy answered as he held her tightly. 

“You’re welcome” Jill replied as she held on him in return.

As the two embraced, the wolf’s tail wagged proudly upon seeing the human lady comforting the poor soul. Then suddenly it senses danger, it began to whimper and growl as if something or someone is looming over them while the topaz colored crystal suddenly glowed brighter and hotter.

Then a strong surge entered his mind, causing the boy’s eyes shot open revealing an orange topaz color. As he pushed Jill away, he began to scream in pain and placed his hands on his head while struggling and fighting his pain. 

Looking around, Jill noticed the crystals glowed brighter and the atmosphere turned hotter, then she gazed at the boy in horror as he try to fight the pain in his head. She rushed in attempt to help him, but then a force backed her away as a foreign voice came out of nowhere.

“Don’t you think about it, what reason you want to help someone like him?”

“Huh?” Jill murmured as she stood up and look around for the voice.

“Can’t you see, this boy and I are one, he was born with my infernal flames along with my flesh and blood” “You on the other hand, are born with her flesh and blood along with the wintery snows and ice.”

Then Jill's eyes were fixed on the boy who was struggling as flames enveloped him, growing larger and taking the shape of a giant creature. Then her eyes widen as it transforms into a familiar monster that she had always seen in her dreams.

The northern princess realized that the boy had transformed into the infernal beast 

“What did you do to him?” Jill cried out angrily showing signs she wasn’t afraid of him.

“I did nothing, he was destined to be born as an infernal beast—No—the infernal Eikon that was banished and shun from the heavens as I am the bringer of the calamity.”

“Bringer of Calamity?”

Then Jill remembered the voice in the blizzard that mentioned the title and its name.

“Ifrit? Are you….Ifrit?!”Jill asked to the Infernal Eikon.

When it heard its name, it roared in anger at her, making Jill cover her ears, and the wolf spirit dashed forward to protect her while growling at the Eikon.

“Who told you my name!?” he asked her furiously, then its topaz eyes widen upon realizing the girl was Shiva’s chosen incarnation.”

“You’re…!?”

While Jill glared at Ifrit, the growling wolf gazed at her and then towards Ifrit. The spirit animal knew she isn’t fit to fight, but as her guardian, it had no other choice but to retreat. In a swift thinking, it lifted Jill onto its back and began to dash away. Seeing the girl and the wolf run away from him it let out a furious roar as he began to chase after them. 

Throughout the pursuit, the wolf manage swiftly to dodge the falling stalactites and tumbling stalagmites that were caused by massive tremors as Ifrit chased them. Soon enough, they reached the exit of the cave. 

“I won’t let you escape” Ifrit cried out.

In a furious blind rage, the massive beast unleashed two enormous fireballs from its hands and hurled them at the wolf and the girl as they sprang towards the exit. A blinding light then filled Jill's vision.

-------

The sun’s ray’s appeared in the windows as morning arrived in the northern territories.

“So it is time then” said Geir as he and the First Sage elder walk through the corridors.

“Yes, you’re majesty. The preparations of the holy transfer to the housing shrine of the great offering will commence tonight.” replied the First Sage.  

It has been one year since he rebuilt his relationship with his child, and since then they shared a loving moments between father and daughter, and the people could never been happier to see the king smiling after years of grieving from the death of their queen. But now, after Jill’s sixth birthday Geir knew the time has come for his daughter to transition from a princess to a holy incarnation of their lost patron goddess. It pained him that he will never get to see her daily or getting to hold or touch her due to a taboo of touching a sacred object or person.  With that, being the holy offering to the Infernal Eikon as she reached the marriage age of 25.

He wanted to cry, but he knew his beloved daughter won’t let him because he knew it will make her sad too. His beloved Arwen was right, Jill is a strong willed child and she was their only hope that she will bring hope to their people and their kingdom. He knew the time has come for him, to pass on the gift that he long to give it to her when she turned six and the night of the holy rite of transition ceremony.