Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The world comes into focus, barely. Everything hazy and barely discernible at first. Zach feels his senses reaching out, the magic in him reacting like a sensory bubble. Even in the haze. The world swimming. He remembers its all.

Zorian is dead.

The Zorian he knows, is gone. His reason for still living was gone.

There is voices in the room with him. The sounds of chatter around him indistinct and far. He lets himself wallow in despair. Feeling the heat of sorrow creep up his back. The nerves on his face burning as he fights the urge to cry.

The presences don't feel dangerous. They didn't feel aggressive. He doesn’t trust that but feels no motivation do anything about them at the moment.

The dispersed magic cloud he is spreading around himself catches on a energy signal. Zach's mind still burning and making it hard to concentrate picks up on something. A ray of hope and of fear.

With great effort, Zach moves his head to look beside him. Through blinding light that he forces his eyes to power through the exhaustion, and the haze his brain still had. His eyes spotted Zorian. Lying there next to him face planted onto the hardwood.

Without the ability to really think it through, Zach muscles a arm over and grabs hold of Zorians hand. Feeling the soft beat under the skin was all he needed. Zach pushed slightly using his soul sense. He needed to confirm. This was Zorian.

Elation zapped through his nervendings. The feeling burning going throughout him. His emotions surviving on the bare minimum. With a slightly struggle, Zach pulled his body over to the other. The voices in the room getting closer as he does. He doesn't get a single thought towards it. Ignoring anything and everything in his goal.

Even how tired he was, even with the pounding beat of his brain, even with the memories floating around. Zach latches onto Zorian. Dragging the unconscious body into a laying hug. Tucking his face into the others bicep. He curled his body around the other.

Theres a foreign hand coming down and Zach unwilling to risk anything. In his tired and hazy mindset casts the strongest barrier around both of them. A layered aegis. Cocooning them both under layers of force.

His mind felt raw but his mana was abundant. Letting Zach layer barriers over and over till he was satisfied. He feels the barriers being taken down slowly. His own instinctual magic replacing as they vanish.

His brain continues beating its self into oblivion. His awareness becoming a pin point and focusing on Zorian. Its the only thing he feels as he is unable to keep himself awake any longer. The steady beat of his other halfs heart.

-
It takes hours for Xvim, Alanic and Damien to get all the shields down and move the two. Instead of touching them, Xvim creates a plane of force lifting them up and transporting them to the closest bed.

Damien tried to remove Zach from his brother and was given electric shocks for his troubles. The boy latched firmly onto the other. The other two only gave him raised eye brows when Damien asked them for help with the situation.

"Just leave them. Its not like it will change much." Alanic shrugged away the others concerns.

Despite it being a reasonable statement. Damien still was a step away from arguing. The only thing that put a full stop on his plans was when Zorian's unconscious body also gravitated towards the other. His form rolling to face the other. Their legs tangling neatly in an attempt to latch on to anything.

-

It was a few days before either joined the land of the living. Zorian due to magical exhaustion and Zach from the multiple mental break downs and injuries. Xvim insured both were getting proper nutrients. Spelling their dietary needs directly to their stomach.

Zorian was the first to wake properly. His mind immediately taking in the situation around him. Zach's calm presence beside him the first thing he takes note of. The two had moved a small amount but never far from the other.

He now layed there extremely relieved that the other looks alive. Still whole. No melted insides or anything equal to or greater harm then that.

Zorian because of their close proximity could sense the dormant mind of the other. Fully blacked out. Deep in sleep so far that even REM sleep was not happening.

From where their hands were joined Zorian could feel the steady heart beat from the other.
His minimal movements had the other coming too. His mind getting closer each second to a functional state.

Within half a minute the others eyes were shooting open and staring directly into his own. Both of them keeping intense eye contact.

They sat there staring at each other for an unknown amount of time. Zach's grip tightening into a firm hold. The loose hold they had in their sleep gone. The action making it look like Zach was afraid.

"Are you real or fake?" Zach muttered, his voice hoarse and probably breathing morning breath all over his friend's face. There was a innate hope in his mind. That the Zorian in front of him could only be real. Why would he wake up in the same bed as the original Zorian. Pretime loop Zorian.

The rounded eyes of Zorians face scrunch up and he draws back. turning his face to stuff it into the pillow instead. "Your emotions are killing me right now." The other grumbles and Zach feels that hope settle and with a burst of elation, wraps his other hand around the other. Dragging him into a hug trapping their joined hands between their bodies uncomfortably.

"Ah! Zach stop." Zorian complains as his arms are twisted up into a tight hug. In the hasty movement Zach threw the blanket off both of them. Zorian feels his shoulder getting warm with Zach's breath as the other makes a crying weezing screeching noise.

Despite the uncomfortable hold, Zorian leaves it alone. Analyzing the situation they now are in. Zach refuses to let go till the sun has fully risen and wasn't casting morning rays through out the room.

"The summer festival is over." Zorian mutters. Still finding the concept novel. Theres a million things waring for his mental attention. Things he should get up to deal with. A pressing urge to use the bathroom suddenly made its self abundantly clear.

"Bathroom. Zach, I need the bathroom." He gives slight shoves to the other boy. "We also need to find out where we are." The other doesn't even budge. Shaking his head and refusing to move.

Zorian's bodily needs eventually force him to take harsher action. Using his unstructured magic to try and move the other. It's quickly rebuked by Zach's own magic. Causing a small war between them.

"I'm going to make an embarrassing mistake if you don't move, Zach." Zorian warns. Giving one more firm push. The other finally lets go, rolling off him to the side.

Zorian quickly gets up taking a look around the room they were in. Spotting his glasses and after placing them on he sees his bedroom at Imaya's. The signs of his stay in the corners of the room. The desk still stacked with last minute prep work.

Looking over, he sees Zach dazedly staring blankly at the ceiling. The wooden lattice and its veins easy to get lost in. "I'll be right back okay?" Even as he gets up he feels Zach's magic slightly tethered to him. Like a thread that Zach was holding to make sure he knew where Zorian went.

Zorian layers some of his own magic into the magical thread. Twining them together. It wouldn't keep up over long distances but for today. He wasn't going any far distance from Zach.

He makes his way out the bedroom and down the hall. He hears Kirielle shout in excitement once he opens the door. Forcing him to rush a little quicker dreading another obstacle.

Kirielle is waiting for him the moment he reopens the bathroom door. He's barely placed the drying rag down when she has her small arms around his waist.

Looking down the hall he sees a few more friendly faces. Kael and Kana both peaking down the hall. Despite Zorians own memories. This Kael didn't know him nearly as well. They kept their distance not getting in his face. Zorian would appreciate it, but its not them trying to not overwhelm him. They genuinely don't know him.

He feels the thread moving. Shrinking as Zach is moving about. The bedroom opens to show the Black haired teen rubbing his right eye. "My turn." Zach mutters as he gets closer. Placing a hand on Zorians back to nudge him out of the bathroom door. The gentle force moving him and Kirielle closer to the stairs.

The hand lingers till the last second. Zorian understands but knows they will have to deal with that.

"Good morning Kirielle." Zorian greets his sister warmly. Stepping to the left a few more steps to wait for Zach. His little sister's face still hadn't left his stomach. "What would you like for breakfast?" He asks to direct her somewhere.

"Waffles." She mutters. "Imaya is already making them." She tells him quitely. Theres a brief pause and Zorian can feel her apprehension to ask something so he waits. "Are you and your friend okay now?"

Her face leaves his stomach to look directly up at him. "Yeah. We're still a bit out of sorts but yeah we are." Zorian admits. The exhaustion and bone cold feeling he still has will go away. His magical exhaustion will stop being noticeable but their out of the loops.

Zach takes barely anytime, his hands still slightly wet when he exits the bathroom to stand next to him. Their upper arms pressed quickly together. "I heard something about waffles?" He asks that smile that Zorian now knows is a mask.

"Yeah. Imaya is making waffles, she has a few jams to go with it." Kirielle smiles at him. "Habanero and Raspberry was the one I want to try."

"Oh?" Zach teases. "And I assume you want someone to try it first?" He puts a hand on his empty side. Leaning more into Zorian. "Okay. " Zach draws out the word. "I'll be your test dummy."

Kirielle smiles widely, letting go of Zorians waist to grab their hands. "Good! Lets go."

She skids her feet on the carpet as they head down the hall. Zorian notices Zach use a slight non structured magic to dispel the static electricity that the action caused.

Theres a relieved expression on Imaya's face from where she is standing over the stove. A pile of waffles already made next to her. "Ah good, good. Sit down. We need to get food in those bellies." She frets. Her gaze glancing over both of them quickly but in a calculating manner.

Kael is watching them both with the same level of calculation in his gaze. Zorian knew that the two of them would be fielding these style of looks for weeks.

The rest of breakfast was easy. Everyone keeping the peace and talking about meaningless things.

At the end of the meal, After sending Kirielle and Kana off to play. Waiting till they were out of the room, Imaya drops the bomb that Zorian had been worried about. "Oh Zorian, Zach. you both were sleeping and missed it. Ilsa stopped by to tell you both the school is expected to be back running in a few months. You will be given options of how to proceed from there."

She looks hesitant for a second before speaking up Again. "she also asked me if I was able to house some of your other classmates. The dorms were badly damaged in the barrage and some students who are from out of town don't have many options." She looks directly at him, letting him have his own choice in the matter. "Kael has already said yes but you deserved to have a choice in the matter so we waited for you to wake up."

"I see." Zorian mulled over the idea. There was no good way to avoid it. Most of his classmates he owed quite heavily and some he had no way to repay. "Who were you thinking of?" Despite not liking the idea of being in that close of quarters with everyone. He was willing.

"Your classmates, Raynei, Akoja, Kiana, Kopriva, Naim, Edwin and Estin. From what i've come to understand. They were quite okay with Kael's situation." Imaya informs. Trying to keep any bias out of her statements.

He turns to Kael and feels the need to confirm. "Your okay with this?" His eyes quickly shooting to Kana to signal what he meant. Zorian could feel his emotions were awkward and uncomfortable but the boy nodded with a determined look.

Zach had been mostly silent during the whole thing. Holding a tea cup and calmly leaning against Zorian's left side. When Zorian turns to look at him he arches a brow and tilts his head. "What, I don't actually live here."

"So you are going to go back to your mansion?" Zorian easily poked at the heart of what he thought was the issue. The boys immediate flinch was answer all in its self.

"You wouldn't come with me. So no." Zach mutters eyes averting from anyone else’s to stare at the wall. He raises his tea up to take a sip. "I might actually open the mansion to the teachers." He admits. "Alot of them also lived in the schools. The cleaning staff and the lot too." Zach thinks quickly over many solutions his brain working fast.

Imaya nods before directing the next question at Zach. "So you will be staying with us as well?" She seems unconcerned. "Will you and Zorian need separate beds?" Theres a delicately amused expression on her face. She seems sad and stressed. A small thing like this enough to let her ignore the problems for a second.

"No." Zach says quickly. His eyes shift a bunch before he places the tea cup down and leans harder into Zorian’s shoulder. "It's not like that, but no."

Zorian feels a node of concern, thinking the other has remaining problems over the whole thing. He can't ask at the moment. Unwilling to divulge everything to others. They would need to chat later.

"I have no issue with our classmates coming to stay. Me and Zach can use alteration magic to make some beds if you want." Zorian offers

Imaya looks ready to ask questions but lets Zorian redirect the conversation. "That would be quite helpful. I'll get ahold of Ilsa in an hour. The group has been in the emergency bunkers since the event so the sooner they have a place to be the better." She smiles at them.

Zach looks around uncomfortably and then ask's her. "How much will I owe you for rent. I don't want to just invade with out something as payment." He tentatively states.

It took a while of back and forth before Zach had worked out a acceptable amount for her to accept. She kept saying it was fine the academy would pay her and Zach kept insisting he had a house so they really didn't need to do that. It was a hassle. Zach also asked her to pass on his idea to Ilsa when they met later.

"I will need to stop by a lawyers office and multiple other institutions but let her know I will be available after five tonight." He states a determined look coming back to him.

Kael who had been silent for the topic finally asked. "Today? You just woke up." He asked in a confused manner.

"Its gonna take years anyway. I better not waste time." Zach snarled thinking about the man who was his guardian. Glaring at his green tea mindlessly. "I'm getting as much of my families legacy back as I can."

The Confusion on Kael’s face turns to understanding. "Ah. I understand."

"Speaking of." Zach suddenly turned sunny. Flip flopping his emotions like a switch. A violent sunny smile that made Zorian nearly feel bad for the person its actually directed at. "I'm gonna steal Zorian now. We can get to the office when it opens if we leave now." He gestures to a clock on the mantle.

Standing, Zach takes Zorians hand and starts to head out the door. "Thank your for breakfast Imaya its wonderful as always. We will see you later." He smiles widely heading out the door.

Zorian doesn't resist feeling like he knows why Zach is taking him along. He had stated he needed no help to solve his legal issues. That means this was an ambush.

They get a few blocks before Zach finally speaks. "Don't look so worried. Im not going to punch you this time." The other boy is no longer smiling. "Im not happy but im also overjoyed. You know?" He continues walking like this was a casual conversation.

"I'm sorry." Zorian starts. "I had to convince you that the contract was upheld."

"I thought you were gone."

"I know. I was there the whole time."

"I see."

"You were going to die. I couldn't let you do that. After everything. I didn't want to be the sole survivor. Zach do you get that. I would be-"

"Thank you." Zach speaks over him.

"the only person. What?" Zorian stumbles. Zach hand still latched on so he was dragged along anyway.

"You saved us." Zach admits. A soft breakable smile on his face. "I couldn't see a way out. It was either you die or I do." Zach admitted coming to a halt. "After everyone started being aware. I had come to terms with it being me. I would die and somehow. You did what you had to."

"I couldn't let you die." Zorian admits quitely. Unable to move on from the look that his friend was giving him. "Silverlake actually asked if I was gay because she thought I was mental for sticking with a lose cause." He admits trying to redirect the energy of the conversation.

"What did you even do?" Zach asks over his distraction, even if he was amused by the statement. "I still can't understand what happened."

Zorian gets shifty before setting into an explanation. Zach's face became more and more shocked as he gets more and more detailed.

"The whole city." He mutters. Unable to fully comprehend the level Zorian had to go to. "You are astounding."

"It was worth it." Zorian admits. He feels wrong footed now that they are in the aftermath. "You owe the Aranea a thank you. They helped make the system work."

"Zorian. When I tell you. I wont be letting you out of the city for a month. Im being dead serious." Zach states seriously. He only holds their eye sight for a second before he turns and continues walking. "We won. Actually." Zach makes a reluctant smile. Faced forward walking down the road. "You won."

It was quite for a few more blocks. They walked through the relatively ruined roads. Remnants of fire damage surrounding them at every corner. The signs of battle all around the area. Zorian spent most of their walk sensing how many people are around. It was a lot of living people. Good he muses.

Zorian could sense the emotions of the citizens nearby. He had been keeping a sense on how close people were getting. Giving mental nudges to keep people away instead of make privacy wards.

"I thought I had lost you. Everyone else was alive, the invasion failed, but you weren't coming back." Zach randomly speaks up, startling the hell out of Zorian. His focus immediately redirecting to him. Zach continues his statement. "You and I both surviving is more then I can ask for. I'm selfish though, so i'm still going to legally fuck up Tesen's shit." Zach looks back at him with a grin across his face.

Zorian feels a calm energy flit across him seeing the other returning to his normal self. Even if the bone deep cold of mana exhaustion and both of them where physically recovering slowly. This was an amazing outcome.

-

The first month went by quickly. Loose threads being tackled constantly, leaving them both with little free time. The room Zorian used to have to himself now housed two bunk beds. They had to move the desk out of the room and keep belongings in boxes under the bed but After a round of alteration magic Zorian and Zach had crafted the room into a functional sleeping quarters.

The bottom bed of one of the beds was slightly bigger. A full bed instead of a twin sized. It was the bed that Zorian and Zach shared. Naim and Edwin were perfectly happy to share one bunk. Estin getting the bunk above theirs.

The three didn't ask questions. They looked constantly like they had them but with how busy Zach was getting his legal issues squared away and Zorian getting started into his own stuff. They left the two alone.

They had done alteration work on Kirielle's room as well. Making it a bunk room for the girls. Zorian and Zack tried to give the girls as much privacy as they could. The situation wasn't ideal at all. They worked with what they could.

Zorian divided his time between the Aranea - Aope relations, Setting up study sessions, his multi step plan to hide his actual skill level but fake learn the subjects.

The long term plan being that he can use his abilities with out issue because of a paper trail. Zach was doing the same. In Between his legal issues, Zach was training with Kyron, Nirthak, and Taiven. He had also contacted one of their teachers about learning healing magic. It would be boring but safer.

They even had a slight believable answer to their money problems. Zorian had been setting up shop slowly. Getting in contact with the right people to sell some of his more useful items, and Zach was getting a steady rent for the use of his mansion. They also raided the Dungeon for all the spots they knew good resources where. Quickly accumulating a good well of cash.

It was after dinner on a average day that someone finally asked Zorian about Zach. "How long have you both been friends?" Akoja finally cracked. Her curiosity and nosyness winning out.

"We became friends over the summer." Zorian rolled his eyes at her, flipping through a book on the history of shifter politics. It was a book he requested for Raynie. He'd been using their situation to help find solutions for the Aranea.

"But why. How did you get this close." Akoja pressed. She had a her answer's she wanted from this and wasn't satisfied. "You both share a bed, Zach eats your food at dinner, and he practically hangs off you when ever your near him." She lists placing blame on Zach. Even if there isn't anything wrong with the situation. "He literally ate half your donut the other day. From your hand. Without your verbal permission."

Zorian doesn't really understand her point so he just nods. "Yes?" He waits for her to continue but she's doing the same to him. "I don't know what you want me to say. Zach has his reasons for how he behaves and I don't have any issues with it." Zorian stares at her unsure of what she is expecting after stating that.

"But how?" She cries. "You both are so different. How did you even end up together." She waves a hand at him, sitting on the edge of the seat in an anxious way. "What could you possibly find interesting about Zach?"

"Many things." Zorian answers, finally putting a marker in the book before placing it on the coffee table in front of him. "He's quite dedicated and strong willed. I don't understand why you are having a hard time with this. Zach is probably my best friend. I honestly only say probably cause Taiven might punch me in the gut if I don't at least include her." He looks at Akoja with interest, only barely holding him self back from reading her surface thoughts.

People were already afraid of him lately, every since his mind magic came to light. He sensed more and more people using mental shields near him, and a more common emotion of fear showing up. He didn't need to make that worse by keeping to his time loop habit of reading peoples minds.

"I just can't understand what you see in him." Akoja huffs indignantly. 'Ah' Zorian realized suddenly. She was jealous. He knew that Akoja had a crush on him still. Even if he now was nearly a decade older then her.

Once he had a single thought they might have been able to work out but realistically it wouldn't. They weren't nearly as similar as Akoja still thinks. If she understood the bare minimum of things he has done. She wouldn't even be able to stomach being in the same room as him.

"I've made my peace with my self." Zorian finally admits. "He knows what type of person I truly am." The mental image of Zach’s sunny expression. The black hair glinting off the light. The unnatural light glow to his pink eyes. How that smile is almost always directed at him when in the same room. "Akoja, Zach cares about me beyond anyone else. He even smiles at me when im being a prickly person."

"But why him." Akoja practically begs. "I can see your relationships strength. I just-" She cuts off looking away before snapping her eyes back to him. "I just don't get it." She states.
"I get it, the not understanding part." He gives her the smallest smile. His memory can't help but go back to something innocuous. Something that really sets up why Zach was now his best friend. "Akoja, for a really long time I was angry. Really angry, at literally everyone. My one goal was to get independence and then leave. I probably planned to go as far as I could from everything."

"Why did Zach make that change?" Akoja ask's quietly.

"He made me laugh." Zorian admits. He can't tell her how long it had been since he truly laughed, but it was then that Zorian realized. In the time loop before joining up with Zach, he'd stopped laughing. Sure he smiled and huffed slightly, but all out laughter only came happened when Zach over dramatically hugged a tree and got bitten by ants.

Even Years after that time they left the black rooms he still remembers how the other behaved.

"Thats it?" She asks now fully incredulous. "That's all it took?"

He scoffs with a small smile building. "Ako, I hate my birthday. My perfect gift would be to not see a single person the entire day. If that doesn't explain how bleak my life felt then nothing will." He shrugs and decides that the conversation was mostly over. Picking up the book again he finishes it with. "Zach makes me happy. He smiles at me without needing me to do anything."

As he's opening the book Akoja finally responds. "I think I understand." She goes silent for a while, Zorian continuing to read his book peacefully.

"Why does he like you?"

His eyes snap to her before softening. He remembers their conversation in the Time Loop. "I haven't the faintest of idea's. You could ask him if you want." He watches the way her face gets more serious. "Don't worry to much about it. I know how he feels. Mind mage and all." He jokes.

Her face gets ashen and she then whispers. "You can tell those things?"

"Yes?" Zorian realises that its not common knowledge. "It's natural empathy. I can read the emotions people are feeling. Their often complicated and a mess but sometimes one emotion is easy enough to be able to read it." He informs her, keeping the extent of his abilities secret.

"I see." She looks thoughtful. "And what's the one that Zach feels?"

"Elation." Zorian admits.

Akoja's eyes widen for a second before she seems to come to a conclusion. "I see. Thank you for answering my questions." She stands stiffly, brushing off her pants as she does. "If its alright im going to head to the Library for a while."

Zorian watches her go feeling like a book closed. Not a chapter but the end of the book. Thinking to himself about it, he thinks this will be how Akoja starts moving on from him.
Remaining on the couch reading, Zorian puts the incident out of his mind. The living room is a public location and people slowly join him there. Kael curling up eventually on the love seat. The journal of his part iterations work opened up in front of him.

Niam and Edwin coming in later, chatting happily between them on the couch. Kirielle and Nochka even had slowly taken up a corner, playing with the cubes Zorian had remade Again.

He felt calm and relaxed. Even with all the ongoing plans. He felt like they were all manageable. He had time to properly setup things. There was no reason to overly set up anything. He can get his plans to take a few months or even a year.

The passage of time was nice. It made life easy for someone of his skill level.

Zach came in later in the day and looked exhausted. He looked ready to physically fight the next person who disagreed with him.

The whole room turned to look at him as he walked past everyone and slouched himself over the couch Zorian was sitting on. Zorian casually lifting the book he was reading for the other to lay his head down. Zach's arm's wrapping them self around his stomach and face being stuffed into his sweater.

"Ahhh!" Zach screams into his sweater, muffling the sound. Zorian lowers his arms resting his book on Zach like a table.

From where he is still curled up, Kael ask's. "Whats the matter?"

"Discovery!" Zach bemoans loudly. He rolls onto his back letting go of Zorian to flop his arms all over like a octopus. Zorian moves with him before settling his book in one arm and resting it on Zachs forehead. His empty arm coming to rest on the others chest.

"I've been asked so many questions. Where did you find this, what is this, when was this, how long ago was this. Its so tiring. Why can't I just have my shit back?" He grouches out.

"You knew it would take years." Zorian smiles at him "I get it though. The courts are taking forever to get creature rights to the Aranea." He rolls his eyes at the thoughts of the stuff the Aope family was forced to contend with.

"But your just the ambassador!" Zach grouches from his spot. "You don't have to do it alone."

"I said I would help when ever you need." Zorian reminds him. This gets a groan of mental pain in response.

Kael smiles amused at the both of them. "I don't get why both of you are fighting the government. It's amusing though."

Entering the room, Kopriva is the one to answer that. "Because the government is stupid. Do you know how often my family has to do similar stuff? It's always so aggravating going to court as a witness or any other reasons." She smirks at the group, the satchel bag over her shoulder weighed down by multiple books.

The next person to agree is Edwin. "They also have such silly rules for Gollum creation. It really stunts creativity alot. My family has to go to small claims or just for permits. The process takes forever." He complains joining the band wagon of hate the government. "Kael you don't have beef with them?" He asked raising a eye brow in mockery.

"Well of course I do." Kael huffs. "Just these two seem to be actively picking a fight with them."

"School is on pause. I have free time." Zorian states blandly. Zach immediately starts giggling at him, curling his legs up to his chest in mirth.

"You would still be picking fights with them if you had school." Zach gets out through giggling breaths.

Zorian swaps his stomach, before sniping back. "Yeah well, its not my fault their laws are dated and need reworking. Honestly making mind magic illegal made me barely functional. Not my fault that spiders were more willing to help me then our own people."

Having heard this argument before, Zach just continues giggling before calming down to smile at the ceiling contently. Kael rolls his eyes at them with Kopriva. She snarks. "And your not dating."

"Nope." Zach smiles widely. "Only soulmates." He jokes, loving the part that its such and inside joke.

Zorian still knew they souls were linked. The tracking marker still active even now. There was no where Zach or Zorian could hide from the other. They don't need to but, on a soul level, They are the only people in history to be soul bound with out the dangers of it.

Everyone in the room rolled their eyes. Used to Zach's bullshit at this point. After a month of living with the powerhouse, they have gotten a better understanding of his behavior.

-

Fixing his relationship with Xvim was easy. The man nearly immediately forgave him for the mind wipe. Understanding exactly why it happened. Alanic was a slightly longer possess but only took half an hour for the man to crack and sigh deeply.

The bald man had spent the month running interference and making sure both teens got out of the situation without being dissected or chased down by authorities.

Zorian felt extremely thankful for his actions. The final story of what happened during the invasion was extremely spotty. Even the best record keeper and news reporter couldn't get the full story. Loose ends all over the place.

Alanic was more then avid about the two of them visiting once a month. telling them to join him and Lukav for dinner. He always stated that his doors were open to them when ever they wanted.

It was a open invitation that Zach had taken a few times.
They were far more willing to visit Alanic and Xvim over the Taramatula's. Damien and Orissa both reported back about all they could remember about the invasion to their family head. Damien left out any time travel parts but now the family just believes Zorian and Zach were natural prodigies.

The previous time Zorian visited to get Damien. Collecting him since they agreed all siblings would greet their parents when they arrived in Cyoria. Zorian spent half the time warding off advances from the family. His language barrier issue wasn't as bad and he understood their off comments better.

Orissa even laughed out right at him when he said his family is being weird. "They would love for you to also become a Taramatula."

"Damien is taking your name?" He asks in realization.

The smile that passes her face before she looks at Damien was downright self assured. "Of course he is. Damien Taramatula sounds better then Orissa Kazinski." She stated.

To Zorian they both sounded fine. He didn't get the concept at all and then stormed off a second later when Damien snidely asked. "Is yours going to be Noveda soon?"

He then had to sit through his mother trying to order them around Again. As if he would have any reason to listen to her ever again.

-

Through out the month, Zach and Zorian tracked down those Rare and Valuable monsters that Zach used to hunt for money. They never had any real issues with fighting them. They only really have gotten through a few so far. Selling the parts to fund both his objectives and Zach's legal fees. Those were expected to be high and neither of them were willing to risk it.

The most recent on the chopping block for stress relief and money relief was a Jade Serpent. It was massive and lived in the cave systems below Koth.

When mentioning Zach's restlessness the Ulanna spoke up about a monster known to be terrorizing a small village north of them. Zorian did some research before finding out the creature had a magical resistance that made them hard to fight. They tanked force magic and shot green rays that cause rashes all over the victims.

That explained why no one was fighting it. Orissa sent one of her family member's to work as a translator but ultimately it was left up to Zach and Zorian to beat the creature.

That's how Zorian ended up playing defense. Standing off to the side ensuring the creature didn't come near the village while Zach fought it.

The other wasn't even putting in a lot of effort. Mostly casting tame spells such as fireballs and magic missles. Nothing they couldn't have learned in school easily.

Zorian watched as ten magic missiles formed before launching at the creature in a barrage of damage. It shrieked tanking the hits while coiling to strike.

As the creature launches at Zach to bite, he cast's a fireball directly into its mouth. The creature making a pained noise and still aiming to hit.

Zach dashes forward. casting point blank range magic missiles at the creature. both coming from the sky to send the creature into the ground. The boy's manic expression gets even more so when the creature hits the dirt and Zach in his movement jumps to land on its head.

placing his hand on the creatures head. He casts a line of magic missiles all in a row creating a severing force that decapitates the creature brutally.

Zorian watches as Zach lifts the head by a massive tooth, and turns to him waving it at him like a prize. With a bemused smile he gives a small wave.

The escort, that is probably a cousin of Orissa, stands there horrified. He's looking between them searching for which one was the weird one.

Luckily the creature was mostly intact. All the useful parts were still in tact. Zorian used alteration magic to harvest the creature. The skills he learned early in the time loops coming in handy Again.

The glistening scales of the snake sold for a good price. The eyes also known as Jade Pearls were more pricey if they came intact. They weren't a potion's ingredient. Both were purchased by jewlers in Cyoria. The Snakes were hunted to extintion there but were comon enough in Koth.

Zorian made sure to break down the rest of the snake, Collecting its fluids, like blood. Taking great care to collect the rash inducing venom. Extracting the large fangs and bones while cutting the meat off it. The village specifically requested the meat if it remained in good condition.

They likely would cook it in a hearth. Zorian actually regrets that they cant stay for it. He expected they would be amazing flavors.

He cut out the organs for the same reason. Keeping them hole as much as possible. This wasn’t to his tastes but he understood their desire to use as much of the animal. Finally finishing up he places everything he intends to take back into a expanded bag, using a plane of force to carry the rest.

Zorian looked over at Zach who was now peacefully resting under a tree. "Time to go." He calls out to the dozing man. "I'm all done and our escort probably wants to go too."

"Fine." Zach grumbles leaving his relaxed laying position. "I have the rest of the day off, We should stop by somewhere nice to relax." he grins excitedly. Obviously already having a place in mind.

"Okay."

After delivering the meat to the village they walk their escort back, thanking them for the translation assistance. Ulanna greets them at the door, she hands over three books on the local dialects. Giving him a gentle but insistent nudge to learn there language better. "You never know if you'll need to speak it." She winks and then elegantly walks away, leaving them to walk to a good teleport spot on their own.

"Is she trying to say something?" Zach struggles to understand next to him. The confused crinkle of his eyebrows.

Zorian turns to him astounded. "Yes." He deadpans. "She's been very subtle about wanting me or you, preferably both to marry into her family." he explains. Taking some pleasure in the shocked and then uncomfortable expression passing over the others face.

"Why would she want that? Dont they already have damien?" Zach gets out. His voice slightly higher then normal.

"They know about what we can do." Zorian explains. He turns away from the building to head to the spot he was planning for a gate. "Why wouldn't a family want that? You're even from a noble household."

"I know people who don't want to date me." Zach states proudly then immediately back tracts. "Wait. No. I mean, I'm more then strong and a noble." He struggles to complain about the issue. Moving to keep up with Zorian as he walks up the hill.

"Yes. I know that." He assures the other. "You have many things people should want. Your magic and bloodline not being important."

Theres now a smug grin on Zach's face. He places his hands behind his back, walking next to Zorian now. "Oh ho ho? Wanna spill?"

"Not in your greatest dreams, You don't need a reason to be over confident." Zorian snarks back easily.

With a whine Zach rolls his eyes dramatically. "You're no fun. Such a buzz kill Zorian." He moves on quickly though. "Come on. Theres a restaurant on the coast that serves the best ceviche. They also have good drinks. This stuff called cachaça. They served it with limes." Zach excitedly states, gesticulating the idea. Arms going wild to express.

Zorian mentally shrugs walking after the other at his own sedate pace. Wondering how long ago Zach Visited this town.

-

When Zach and Zorian return to Imaya's Zorians mother and father was seated in the kitchen, having an amiable chat with Imaya and Ilsa. Zorian mentally clocks them blocks before he even makes to to the house.

"My parents are here?" Zorian mutters. Still slightly tipsy from the Alcohol. The fermented Sugar cane Juice was good. Even if he only drank a single glass.

He spent the whole meal with Zach telling him the story of his last visit to the town. Animatedly showing Zorian stuff something using small glowing illusions to demonstrate.

The enjoyable day coming to a close with this issue.

Zach kindly states. "We can get a hotel room for the night." Gesturing to a hotel that they were not far from.

"Theres probably not rooms available." Zorian grumbles. "It's to late in the day to book that."

"We could go to literally anywhere. Both of us have places that are a teleport away." Zach points out, even as he walks with Zorian closer to the house.

Shaking his head Zorian grumbles. "No, I'm not leaving because of them. I'll hear them out and then kick them out after." Zorian clacks his tongue in anger.

"If you're sure." Zach throws an arm around Zorians shoulder. Giving him a firm side hug. "i'll be with you the whole time."

They continue up the block till they reach Imaya's. Turning the key, he walks into the main entrance. "Were home Imaya!" He announces, knowing the woman likes being informed when all her tenents arrive and leave. She likes knowing where they are and when they will be home too but Zorian sometimes can't be sure on the specifics and neither can Zach.

"Oh boys! Come to the kitchen. Zorian your parents stopped by." She calls out. He hears her say quieter. "They get home at odd hours, those boys are just too busy."

Joining them in the kitchen, Zorian see's his mother and Father on one side on the table. "Hello Imaya, heres a trinket me and Zach picked up for you." He ignores his parents to hand over a carved crystal Macaw. The bird carved from Quartz. There was no magical properties but it was pretty.

Zach had mentioned it while they were strolling around waiting for their table to be ready. They got it for Imaya to thank her for how accepting she has been recently. The woman takes the bird and looks amazed. "Oh this is beautiful. Did you make it?" She looks to Zorian in interest. Giving Zach an appreciative nod as the other boy smiles and waves heading up stairs to change.

"No, they were sold near the place Zach and I went for dinner." He omits the price and anything else. "The crafter was this lovely lady who reminded me of you." He flattered easily.

His mother's gaze was speculative and he feels irritated with out even looking at her. Theres a level of judgment in her stare. His sense's told him he's not wrong. Both his parents took issue with something he did already. He existed for less then two minutes and already failed their expectations.

"What are you doing here?" He finally addresses them.

"Don't take that tone with us." His father states.

His mother huffs. "Not even a hello, we raised you better then this." She gestures to the chair in front of her. Silently telling him to sit down.

"That isn't an answer." He narrows his eyes at her. Distinctly ignoring her by walking into the kitchen and getting a glass of water. He makes sure to grab an extra glass for Zach.

He feels shaden freude at the irritation now coming off his parents. Coming back to place the glasses down. Before taking a seat at the edge of the table sitting on an angle. Doing everything he can to act rude with out truly doing it.

Zach finally makes it back, fully changed into Pajamas now. Fluffy sea form green ones with owls. His arm's coming over Zorians shoulder as he rests his chin on Zorians crown. "Is that water for me?" He awkwardly points at the second cup.

Nodding Zorian hands it up to him. "Why Thank you." He Chirps quickly taking the cup, holding it in two hands, making his arms wrap like a necklace around Zorians throat. Keeping the cup low enough to not obscure his vision.

His mother looks a single step away from riping into him. He knows if Imaya wasn't here she would be. Zorian speaks up then asking once Again. "So what's the visit for? And why isn't Kiri here for the family meeting?" Zorian points out. Already guessing the nature of the visit.

Surprisingly Imaya was the one to answer that. "Kael is out with the her and Kana currently. They wanted to visit Nochka and you know how Rea is. Kael sent word they would be over night. A slumber party it seems." She informs joyfully. The wistful smile on her face.

"Ah, thats nice. I'm glad shes enjoying her self." Zorian states cleanly. His gaze meet's his mother's gaze Again. He would wait her out. Silence is a useful tactic in negotiations.

He could feel how uncomfortable his father was getting with Zach's actions but didn't care. His father didn't nearly let himself die for the sake of the world. He doesn't get to challenge how people cope with that.

"We are here to talk about going home." Cikan stated finally. Zorian raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything else. "Oh for heaven's sake Zorian. You are being such a child about this. We are all going home and that's final. Fortov, you and Kirielle will be returning with us. We were just talking to your landlord here about finalizing the rental agreement."

"Well you didn't sign it, so theres nothing you can finalize." Zorian cuts at her words instantly. The eye roll she gave showed Imaya said the same thing. Probably in better words. "And no, im quite good here. In fact me and Zach were planning on looking at buying a few buildings while the prices were lower." He feels his fathers interest at his words.

Scoffing his mother rolls her eyes. "And with what money. You wont be using mine and your fathers for such childish ideas." She points out the obvious.
"True." He agrees easily. Continuing speaking to shove her words shoved back in her mouth. "I really don't need your money. I plan to buy them with my money."

"Your money?" She glances noticeably between him and Zach. "Zorian you can't be serious. Buying a house isn't a cheep thing. Oh for goodness sake, i've had enough of this. You can't use mr Noveda's money for your childish plans either."

Zach wisely doesn't say anything, Zorian feels his amusement at that statement. "Mother. I am talking about my money. Not only do I get payed quite well for my work as an ambassador, people also pay me for my other works. I'm not struggling at all for money. If I need more, Zach and I can just go dungeon diving or taking hunting missions." He lists off, picking up his own glass of water and taking a sip. It was awkward maneuvering around Zach's arm's but doable. "Crystalized mana is more useful for other things. So I'd rather not use it for money." he mildly complains.

His mother looks livid now. "We will not be helping you with this." She states, ignoring him when he mutters that's fine. "But we will be bringing your sister back home. Theres no use in her staying her since were home now."

"Oh?" Zorian raise's an eye brow. "And why do you say that like its a question then?" He tears into her statement easily. "I don't agree with that idea. Kirielle has close friends here and has managed to get a stable network already." Hoping beyond hope that that might halt his parents. The idea of social climbing a bit.

"Your sister is nine. She is coming home with her parents." his mother states evenly. "I wont be told how to parent my daughter by you."

"Then report me to the police for kidnapping." Zorian states equally as evenly. "She is happy here and like I said. She's networking quite well. She's made friends with the teachers who have been coming for tutoring. She also has been paying proper attention during the lessons. Has taken quite quickly to alternation magic."

"Your teaching her magic?" She snarls through her teeth. Looking ready to reach across the table and get at him. "You have no right to do that."

"I'll agree with you if you tell me what these are." Zorian counters before recreating his collection of Kirielle's art from his reset's. A compendium of beautiful art and sights through out Cyoria.

He stands forcing Zach to release him. Standing to place the pictures to be visible on the table. A art spread that shows at least parts of all the drawings.

"So I ask. Mother. What are these." He condemns saying her title accusingly. "Tell me and i'll step down immediately. I'll fully back off from my plans and conceded."

"Their paintings Zorian. What of it?" Cikan she huffs, not even trying to find out what has been placed in front of her.

Imaya's red face suddenly rising anger as well. "Miss Kazinski. Even I recognise these works." She scolds with an even voice. "These are your daughters."

Cikan glances over them a few more times, examining them. "You think i’m a fool? These are professional quality. My daughter isn't even aloud to draw. When would she have become this skilled." Cikan scoffs at them blandly.

His father looks between the artworks and Zorian. Zorian can tell he's searching for something but Zorian isn't sure what that exactly is.

"No, they're Kirielle's. She is this good." Zorian states, taking a step back and crossing his arms over his chest. Beside him, Zach pulls out his chair and takes a seat to watch the on goings. On any other day, He'd probably have popcorn. His father glancing over to Zach a few times. Seeming unsure what to make of the guy.

"I would know if my daughter could do this." She rolls her eyes "Can you stop being a child for one moment."

"I'm not handing over Kirielle. You would have to drag her forcefully from this city and I can stop you with out causing any pain or harm or even issue." He narrows his eyes at her.

"When did you get like this?" His father cuts in suddenly. A inquisitive eyebrow raise on his normally blank face. "You weren't like this before you left for school this year." His eye's travel to Zach for a split second accusingly.

"I've had the plan to become financially and socially independent of our family line for years." He bites out. "Honestly. If you guys had have started this by just asking if I wanted to go home, this conversation could have gone a million other ways."

"Oh so us asking would have got you to come home?" Cikan cuts into his speaking to snark at him. "Why don't I believe that."

"Because your right, I probably wouldn't have. I would have sat down and explained my reasons and shown you evidence of what my plans looked like. I probably would have even included you in those plans, but im not my own person am I?" Zorian sneers at her leaning slightly closer to them over the table.

"Are you drunk?" His mother screeches. "Is that what im smelling on your? Alcohol?" She looks furious now.

"I had a single glass of fermented sugarcane. So technically yes I drank alcohol. On my own time off, at a restaurant with Zach." He confirmed daring her to continue that line of thinking. Even if there is a slight buzz in his head, it wasn't effecting him enough to matter.

Using unstructured magic, Zorian gathers all the drawings back into a pile and then takes them back. Even if he can make copies, they were dear to him.

"Kirielle is staying here. With me. You can take Fortov if you wish. Thats no issue of mine. He might not agree though. Him and Damien came to an agreement." Zorian states. "I'm not going back to Cirin. I probably wont even visit any time soon." A decade wasn't even enough to want to go back to that bland city.

"You are overstepping your limits now. Zorian Kazinski. You will listen to me. You aren't telling me how to raise my daughter. You will be returning home and this Zach will no longer be contacted." She throws her hand out. Standing up as well now.

"Oh? And what do you plan to do about it." He smiles widely at her. He can feel anger from all parties at the table. Zach's getting stronger then all of the others. Imaya's indignation on behalf of Zorian and Kirielle. She continues to remain out of it despite being right there out of respect.

His mother snarls and then states something Zorian never thought she would say. "The only thing I can do. Remove you from the family."

Imaya's slams her hand down loudly. "That is enough." She speaks evenly. The anger over the situation was cold unlike Zach's fire. "You don't know your own children. You even dare to remove one of them from the family if they don't obey."

"This is a family matter, step out of it." his father states equally as evenly. "Zorian. I have kept out of this so far, but you are overstepping your abilities. I admit i'm interested in the real estate options like you are. I am willing to hear you out on that matter, but your mother is right. It's a lot more expensive then you think." He lectures. "We want what is best for you. Until the school reopens returning home is safest."

Zorian finally breaks into laughter. His laugh borderline hysterical. "God you are so out of the loop its almost funny." Zorian pulls out his check book. The one that lists transaction's. Throwing it on the table in front of his parents. Using a shaping exercises to make the words on the page glow bright for a second.

"That's pocket change." He repeats words he once said to Xvim under much lighter times. "You both may think i'm just a kid still but the fact of the matter is, you missed me growing up. Last week." Zorian highlights a money exchange a few pages in. "We purchased a lab outright. For our resident alchemist Kael."

The outraged. "The Morlock?" his mother gave was swiftly set side. Even no one ignored it, their anger was already high.

He highlights another large purchase. "That is my person workshop purchased outright. It's currently being fully decked out, but my work in spell formula is among the best. I have request's already for assisting in the rebuilding of the royal academy for my warding abilities." He snarls at the both of them. The slowly building shocked expressions was satisfying. He left out how it was with Xvim, not on his own for now. To keep the eyes not fully on him and Zach.

"You can ask Damien if you don't believe me. I have no intention of cauterizing my career by returning to Cirin. No one in my position would ever do that. You may have missed me growing up but it still happened."

Zorian ends his little speech with another harsh laugh. "Gods be gone, you probably aren't even happy for me. Still stuck on the fact I wont bow to your whim. My current abilities already made it so I have no reason to take over the the family business."

Feeling slightly vindictive. "This boy," Gesturing at Zach to address their unwarranted actions up till now. "Is Zach Noveda of house Noveda. He's also my partner. We aren't using each other for money. It's both of our money."

His mother looks at him with a blank gaze. "I don't even recognise you anymore."

"Have you ever?" He states blandly the amusement of the situation already vanishing. "I'd suggest you give up on that arranged marriage for Kirielle also. She will have no reason for it. She will be on par with me and Damien soon enough and have all the access that comes with that."

"You-" Cikan snarls Again. Her anger returning as she overrides her shock. "God your such a bitch." She finally breaks.

"Well your a shit mother!" He blurts out.

"At least Damien still is with the family." She now childishly points out.

"Damien loves Orissa! He will fight for you to accept the marriage but even he will tell you to shove it eventually!" He shouts. "Kirielle is terrified to go home and spent most of time dreading it. Do you get that?!" He feels hysterical at this point. "Your actions have made me and Kirielle fear and despise you. Your even going to loose your favorite son to your behavior." He bites out harshly.

"How dare you talk to me like that?" she screams at the same time as his father says. "How dare you speak to your mother like that."

"And you." Zorian turns his anger on his father. "have belittled me for everything I do since birth. Your narrow view of what makes a man made me fear my own abilities. You even belittled me for having medical issue related to my empathy. I would pass out at parties and you belittled me!" Zorian shouts. "I had a medical issue!"

Zach was standing now. Unsure of if he should get involved but looked ready to at any second. Imaya too was staring shocked at the interaction.

"You even hate that I have to wear these." Zorian lashes his arm at his own face. Grabbing his glasses and then whipping them off his face. The go flying for a second before Zach grabs them with his face reflexes. "I couldn't fucking see and you called me girly for it! It's literally being blind!"

"Zorian that's enough-" His father bites out. Angry too now.

"No its not! It's barely the start!" He shout's. His energy burning out entirely after that. The truth finally out. It was only the start of this issue. He could be here all night detailing time's he felt neglected, hated, poorly treated, ignored, and it wouldn't change anything.

"Get the hell out and if you have a shred of logic you will not touch Kirielle. I'm done with this shit. Disown me, try to arrest me, do what ever the hell you want to try. I will fucking win." He snarls. Magically opening the door. In his anger he yanks it open fast enough that it slams against the wall.

Despite all the fighting, Zorian feels guilt immediately. Turning to Imaya he apologizes right away. "Sorry, i'll fix it."

"Oh deary. Your fine." She consols him with a delicate pat to his shoulder before turning to his parents. "Please see your selves out."

"Now see here." Andir states. "We won't be leaving with out our daughter." He impress's on them this.

"Really?" Zorian narrows his eyes at the man. His father. "You want to fight this out?" he asked and watches Andir flinch back. "You really want to try that strategy?"

Before either of them can answer, Zorian raises his arm and starts reciting the words for the Gate spell. Opening it beneath their feet and watching as they and their chairs fall into it. He slams it shut after. Their expression of fear was the last thing he saw.

"Ah! Zorian!" Imaya worriedly states. "Where did you send them? Are they okay?"

"Back to Cirin. They got dropped on their own bed. Don't worry their unharmed. I owe you new chair's. We can either go shopping tomorrow or I can make you new ones also tomorrow." Zorian thinks over the day and then sighs. "Kirielle isn't returning with them. She deserves to go any path she wishes and i'm going to insure that." He snarls.

"Oh dear. You should head to bed." Imaya pats him on the back. She stares at him with utter care as she gestures up the stairs.

Zorian finally keys into his own sense's. Realizing that his whole house was upstairs. All of them keeping silent as a mouse. For a slim second Zorian wishes he could flip the switch and reset to avoid this.

Walking up behind him, Zach wraps a arm under his own. "Zorian. What would you like to do now? We can do anything you want." He states with understanding eyes. The plum blossom eyes staring warmly into his own. The care and worry in them was prominent.

"I want to see Kirielle." He finally admits. Even if his parents are already in Cirin and will likely be more angrier then ever, Zorian felt the urge to make sure she's okay.

"Then lets go for a walk to Nochka's house." Zach states. "Let me grab you a calming potion. Just so you don't show up to Kirielle looking this angry."

"Do i still look angry?"

"Yes." Zach said cheerily and without hesitation. "But I entirely understand why and honestly its a good look on you. Emotions always do."
-
The trip to Nokcha's house was silent aside from Zach every so often talking about anything that isn't what just happened. The Calming Potion tasted as bad as any concoction of weird roots and leaves.

He did feel the potion trying to aid in lower his stress. Eventually he really needed to learn more about magical medicine. He gets the feeling it would be a entire undertaking and doesn't really know how much time hes willing to dedicate to it.

The first thing he sees when he gets there is Kirielle playing happily with some of the gollums that he made for her. The "Fixed" Gollum working exactly as intended.

Rea and her husband were drinking lemonade on the porch patio. Kael was sitting with them chatting casually. They looked unbothered.

Kael's change of emotion means the Calming potion was only doing so much. His face immediately growing concerned as he got closer. The broadcasted emotion of concern was appreciated but Zorian tried to school his face even more.

Though she also seemed concerned. Her calm expression didn't change at all. Rea lifted her self from her chair and asked. "Would you like a glass?" Gesturing to the lemonade.

"Sure!" Zach chirped. "Thank you for that."

He used telekinesis to pull out their chairs and took a seat next to Kael. Zorian settling in with out fuss.

Noticing him at this point Kirielle bounds up to them and demands. "Your not cutting out slumber party short are you?" She glares at him in a faux menacing way.

"No, don't worry. Just coming to say hi." Zach pats her head firmly. His hand descends into his coat and pulls out two small crystal lizards. "We did get you a gift though." smiling as she happily accepts them and then hugs them both tightly. The lizards clasped in separate small hands.

The entire interaction Kael spends watching Zorian. "The red one is Ferruginous quartz .The brown one is Smokey Quartz. You and Kana can choose which you like better and they are breakable but I can fix them if you do by accident. So be careful but accidents happen." Zorian tells her. Regretting not putting some durability wards on them.

"I'll be careful with them." Kirielle smiles broadly looking through the lizards at the light. Refractions cascading all across her face. "Woah. They glitter like the sun!" She hugs him again before bounding over to Kana.

"Sorry that we didn't bring anything back for Nocka, we were slightly drunk at the time and barely remembered Kana Kiri and Imaya." Zach charmingly to the couple. Both now staring at them in a unspoken question. Zach sighs deeply before answering it. "Nothing is wrong. Well nothing deadly."

"So there is an issue?" Rea questions.

"It's a bit difficult to explain." Zorian stated. Placing muting wards around them. Just enough to let Kirielle and the other kids ignore them but not think anything was strange. The others wait for him to finish before getting impatient. "My parents are trying to demand me and Kirielle return to Cirin. I told them no, they got mad, and then they said they would disown me."

There were some gasps around the table and the cat shifters begin to look apologetic. "I see. I thought it was a dangerous thing. You two have so much going on I forget normal issues are still a problem." Rea admits. "You were checking in on your sister I assume."

"Yes." He places his cup on the table to glance over at Kirielle.

Kael seems to war with himself for a second before asking. "Are you planning to get custody?" And isn't that the big question.

"I don't know." He drops his head into his hands. ruffling his hair. "How am i meant to raise a child. Would she even agree to that? My parents wouldn't dare bring this to the public so im not worried they will press charges. I just will never have full rights to help her and she's only 9." He then looks up for a second and realizes how that sounds.

"I'm sorry. That was inconsiderate."

"No your fine." Kael gives a rueful smile and cocks and eyebrow. "You actually look like me a few years ago." He looks amaused and still concerned so Zorian figures he didn't offend.

"I don't think you would be bad as a parent." Zach admits. He then carries on with. "I don't have much ground to stand on but I think you could manage it even with all your plans. She's a rather excited child." He takes a sip of the lemonade making a happy trill. "This is really good. What did you add?" He looks over at an amused Rea.

"I'll be sure to give you the recipe later, but a hint of cinnamon." She seems amused at his behavior. "I think you wont be a horrible parent and I will assume there is reasons you think such a solution is necessary but don't think you wont have help in this." She gestures to her and Kael.

"Both of us, as well as ms Imaya are all perfectly able to support each other and you when needed. You've watched Nochka when we needed a day off and help her with her education. I don't see why we wouldn't do the same." She gestures to the three girls playing in the front garden.

Kael hums at that. "I also don't see an issue, You have already heavily invested your self in my life. It would be right of me to do the same with yours." He adds his two cents. Like small amounts of funding was enough to help raise a second child with him. "I should mention, I'm not interested in men, and still in love with (insert her name here.). I hope you’ll understand." He gives a smug, thin eyed smile at Zorian.

The loud laughter that comes from Zach as Zorian's face turns from exhausted too embarrassed, nearly covered the words. "No no no no." He waves his hands infront of him. "I'm to busy for that anyway."

"Oh? So you're not objecting me spesifically?" Kael ruefully jokes. Poking at the other. "Good to know im still attractive."

Zorians dying bird sound makes the other two adults laugh as well. "You definitely know your attractive, shut up Kael." Zorian spits, his face growing darker by the second. He buries his face in his hands Again. "How did this day turn out like this." He bemoans his day.

After the laughter calms down, Kael seriously states. "I am serious though. I see no issue with the idea. She might not have a standard two person support system but I feel that she would be successful regardless." He gestures at Zach and Zorian with a fluid movement. "How could she not with the two of you watching over her education and magic growth."

"Oh!" Zach claps his hands, completely drawn in by the idea. "I'm gonna teach her how to make a fire butterfly!" He whips his head over to Zorian. "You can teach her all that shaping stuff while I teach her the cool shit."

"I'm glad you seem on board with this idea." Zorian grouches. Wanting to defend the merit of shaping exercises but is getting to tired emotionally to do it. He turns back to Rea and her husband. "Is it okay if she stays an extra day. I want to lay some ground work to stop my parents from causing issues soon. They may already be tied up with Damien and probably Fortov now, but i'd rather not get blind sided by a police visit." He admits that this did help him get over his initial panic but he still worried about the outcomes.

Jokingly Rea seems to think about it. "Hmm." She huffs. "I suppose if you were willing to leave help eat some of that oh so big snack that I made earlier. I could be asked to do that. It's just so much food." She dramatically feigns grievance.

After some more joking and Zach enthusiastically going to collect a tray of brownies, Nanaimo bars and biscuits. Rea and him work out what to do if his parents show up at their house. Zorian ends up falling asleep on Zach's shoulder about an half an hour later when the hassle of the day catches up with him.

-

The next few days quickly make Zorian hate the legal system with a new burning passion. Zach's newly growing connections to lawyers puts him in contact with a custody lawyer. Which also puts into perspective how difficult it would be to get custody over this. By technicality. Nothing his parents ever did were illegal. They were unethical at best. That isn't enough to throw the hammer down on the situation.

Zorian feels a unending level of anger burning as he slowly learns how little he could sign for till she is at least 14. It was also a great anger to learn that he wouldn't be treated as an adult till he graduates. Even if he wont be of age. Becoming a certified mage did give him some level of autonomy. The badge he got already gave him most of that.

The year's he would spend in in court would be more then it would take for her to age into being an adult anyway. All recommendations from the lawyers were to just try and mediate it between the interested parties.

He spent the entire day getting more and more annoyed. Even personal study didn't help him at all. It took him about ten legal books and a few of their casebooks. Here was a few cases like his but nothing to set a good standard. In fact the few publications he had confirmed he would lose. This was an area where he could win legally.

Short of him leaving to another country, he had to work this out with his parents. He could only bank on them not involving the public and public figures for so long.

The thought of reputation can only win him so much in the long run. It would be his reputation verse's theirs. So far his reputation was dodgy at best.

He had half a mind to just implant compulsions to let him do what he wants, but they were not in danger any longer. Doing stuff like that was how Mind mages gained a bad reputation.

Which was something he was already planning to aid in getting the rights of, so he can't just screw that over.

Luckily. His badge made it so his parents could only vocally disagree with his own personal plans. The only issue he faced was Kirielle.

With the biggest sigh that he's ever let out, Zorian leans back on the couch. Setting the newest. casebook down. Niam and Edwin had just walked in the room and both gave him arched brows. Basically in sync. Those two spent to much time together.

The rest of the house had given him some distance after the argument they overheard. He can tell everyone was curious but trying to be polite.

Edwin walked over taking a curious look over the book he was upset with. "Legal troubles?" He guesses. Glancing over the legal jargon filled pages. Unable to guess what he might be reading about.

"Yes." Zorian draws out the word slowly and like it physically pains him.

"Ah. Zach's legal issues or your own?" The boy ask's Again. "You both seem to have a lot of stuff you advocate for." He points out when Zorian raises and eyebrow at him.

"Its mine. I want custody of Kirielle." He bites but sighs Again. The boy immediately nods his head. Not asking much about it. He also seems to understand just how impossible that idea is. He also seems to remember Zorians angered yelling the other day.

The two of them, Niam and Edwin seem to be unsure about what to say next. "I see. You could just uhh..." Edwin tries but gives up half way.

"Yeah." Zorian sighs. "Yeah. Thats about my own thoughts."

Slapping his legs, Zorian stands up. "I have to go pick her up now, hopefully I get a miracle." Waving at them as he exits the house.

-

The miracle came about a week after the initial incident. In the form of his father walking in with the Kazinski family journals. The ones that mark all investments, funding and other assets. Zach was home from his meetings that day and was in the middle of eating food.

The knock that came at the door wasn't a surprise. Zorian had warned him that his father was coming down their road. Because he was worried about it. Hed been keeping a mind open for his father and mother. Andir wasn't who he assumed he would see first.

"Hello." Zorian greets his father keeping all emotions off his face. "What can I do for you?" He tries not to sound immediately antagonistic because now he knows he has to play nice to get anything he wants.

"Hello, I will skip past the pleasantries and be upfront. I'm here to work with you on some of your endeavors. You were right. I have no been fair. You have grown up and I can't take credit for that." The man easily admits.

"That doesn't mean i'm willing to work with you." Zorian states through clenched teeth. "Come in, The privacy wards are only on the house." He finally gives in and ushers his father into the sitting room. "Be mindful about the fact that this place has good wards but is still used by quite a few people." He informs the other, giving a pointed look to the documents in his arms.

"I see. Very forward thinking of you." Andir says, taking a glance around while following after Zorian. "I would like to request your-" The man seems to go through a large amount of energy to finish. "Your partner, Zach Noveda be here for the talk."

"Good, He's in the kitchen already." Zorian points to siad room, Zach's head poking around the corner like he wasn't waiting for that exact moment.

"Hello." He says in a way less cheery voice then normal. "Come to piss Zorian off some more?" He asks without apology.

"I hope not, I regret how our last meeting went." Andir seems to try modifying the other. "I came into it thinking I knew my son well but I was not only proven wrong, I looked into what you are doing after and found my self at a loss." He admits to stalking them easily.

This seems to amuse Zach as he gets a smug look. "Ah. So you saw all the things we've been working on." Zach's head pops back in the kitchen. "And you want a slice of that sweet cherry pie." Zach giggled as Zorian heard him moving items around.

"No." Andir sighs. His voice lost over the sound of water rushing from the facet cutting him off. Turning to Zorian he asks. "You choose such a spirited person."

Feeling slightly offended on Zach's behalf he just nods but internally thinks his dads statement is rather odd. "Yes." He agrees before walking to the kitchen.

Zach was not oblivious as he shows, dancing lightly while waiting for the water to boil. Zorian could see his attention was placed on this situation. The act was just that, an act. People still fell for it.

"Have a seat." He gestured at the table before getting some mugs out of the cabinet. "Would you like sugar and milk?"

"Yes please."

They all keep relatively silent while they wait for the water to boil. Zach humming mindlessly as he sets up the tea bags. Spooning loose leaf tea into reusable sacks.

Zorian leans against the counter as he watches the other magicing the sugar and milk from their spots. A dance of movement that isn't missed by his father.

The sugar cubes dancing out of their jar to fall into their respective cups. He pours the water in and then after some quick stirring grabs the milk from the air where it still floated.

Then sends all the items to their relevant spots again, closing doors and sending the kettle back to its spot near the back. All this while carrying two cups to the table. Small tea spoons resting neatly inside. Zorian takes the last one that he assumes is his fathers. Placing it on the table in front of the man.

Andir just stares mutedly for a second before meeting Zachs confident and rather angry smile. "Fine, I understand a threat when I see it." He takes a slow sip of the tea, giving it a appreciative noise.

"Good. Id hate to have to speak out loud." Zach chirpily states drinking his own tea.

Zorian rolls his eyes before focusing on his father again. "So, what can I do for you today? I wont be going back on our last conversation." He states before that can become a issue again.

"No, I am not foolish enough to try that." Andir admits. "That is why I didn't bring Cikan. Your mother is incensed that you magically threw us out." He admits. "That was also powerful magic. Magic im sure you wont tell me how you learned and I will not ask. It is merely more evidence of your qualifications."

"And? It's good you suddenly believe me." Zorian tilts his head, fingering the mugs handle. "That doesn't explain what you want to ask."

A small notebook of papers was pushed in front of them. Andir making sure it was placed between them equally. "This is all the contacts of the Kazinski family. I have compiled them by relevance and made small notes about what our family is associated with them on." He explains. Opening the first page. To Zorians interest it was a list of contact details and notes as the man stated.

"You are not and will not be thrown out of the family." Andir drops the bomb after he points to the first name on the list. "This is the family lawyer. This is the family doctor. They also recommend that you see a new doctor in Cyoria. I have a separate list of their recommendations." Andir explains.

"What do you want for this?" Zorian narrows his eyes while reading through the list. Merchants, labor unions, agencies he has never needed to work with and other related things. Were all listed there.

"Nothing."

Zorian and Zach both give him strange looks at that. "Nothing?" Zach asks.

"Nothing." Andir confirms. "You were correct. You have grown up." He pulls out some of the other documents he brought with him. Detailed lists about the development in the northern areas, and things that looked along those lines. "As of this summer, I didn't believe in you. I believed you would do much aside from get a standard job in some magical company. I was hoping you might take over the family business." The man tells him.

Not even giving a chance for Zorian to respond. "Despite what you believe. Even if from your side it would be entirely reasonable. Your mother and I do love you. don't make the mistake of thinking I don't know something happened. You are not who you were less then a month ago. I know this."

"You however are still my son, and now as I sit here before you. I feel a great level of joy at knowing you are to be successful." His father admits verbally. Making sure to keep his voice Neutral. Zorian can feel his pride and his genuine happiness. Though the mans expressions and facial features were schooled and practiced. His thoughts were not. Zorian could see his honesty from his surface thoughts. "I may have missed seeing you grow up, that I can live with. I will not however miss supporting you in anyway I can. You are my son."

Andir lets that settle between them for a minute while he takes the time to calmly sip more of his tea. "In saying that. I will support your desires to see Kirielle grow into a adult. I believe she could benefit from a proper schedule. I expect-" Andir is cut off by Zorian at that.

"You don't get to expect-" Zorian tries to state cuttingly.

"I expect." Andir continues louder. "That you and Kirielle will visit once a week for dinner. We can set the day and change it based on scheduling errors." immediately seeing the arguments Andir continues. "Do not try to tell me it would be a hassle. You transported you mother and I with magic alone. I believe you can teleport and can do so to have dinner once a week."

Theres silence in the room before Andir breaks it Again. "I also expect you will bring Fortov and Zach." He looks uncomfortable with this conversation now. "You were also correct. Fortov is unwilling to return as well. Evidently he has begun to find focus on the course work. He and Damien were adamant that they need the time the school is closed to buff his knowledge and skill level."

The two teens give each other looks before Zach asks. "I understand Fortov but why do you want me to come?"

"You are his partner." Andir states with a twitch of his eye. "Damien is bring Orissa. I would expect you to come as well. It's only proper."

That explained a lot. Zorian widens his eyes before stuttering out. "Zach is-" He cuts off thinking about it. "Zach's not-" There was no good explanation for most of it so he settles for. "We aren't dating."

Andir gets the wrong impression. "Great. Another failing of mine and your mothers. You got engaged with out saying anything." He rolls his eyes and takes a angry sip of his tea.

"Were not engaged!"

"You got married then?" Andir glares darkly. "Zorian if you tell me you had a wedding with out me present."

"I'm not!" Zorian squawk. Slapping Zach as the other starts outright cackling. "We aren't like that."

"Zorian." Andir looks annoyed. "I am no blind. I may not like that you are seeing a man, he isn't a bad choice. Magically powerful, socially connected, well spoken, and has a good head on his shoulders." The man counts off. "Its close enough to who Damien choose. I can imagine due to him being Cyorian nobility, you will even have little to no push back from your mother."

Coughing all over the table as he overcomes his shock, Zorian realizes this is more then he's heard his father speak since he was a child. He feels the need to outright state it then. "As of right now, me and Zach aren't romantically involved. Theres no need for this."

"You share money." A nod.

"You share rights to real estate." Another nod.

"You make big choices together." Another more hesitant nod.

"You share a bed." A slightly slower hesitant nod.

"Zorian." Andir sighs." I'm aware you are socially unaware but that is the action of a married or to be married couple."

Unhelpfully Zach chirps. "We also have shared custody of a god enhanced Hydra that currently is living in the Sarokian Highlands. Her name is princess." He makes a illusion to show the beast in all its glory. "She's such a sweetie."

Andir waves a hand out indignantly. "Zorian!"

"What!" He cries out. "Can we go back to what you came for now." He grouches.

"He drapes all over you like a blanket! Its practically indecent!" His father shouts. "I cannot be convinced that you aren't. Zorian, have I not stated I will support you?" The man looks put out now. Getting that indignant expression that has Zach pointing at him.

"He looks like you, thats where you get that expression. Its a Kazinski expression." Zach whispers into his ear. Leaning into Zorians side to get closer. This has Andir indignantly hand gesturing at them.

"Moving on." Zorian calls out loudly. "Please." He begs.

His father rolls his eyes very exaggeratedly before saying. "Fine. I do have other reasons for being here." He pulls out a real estate map of Cyoria. "Since you wish to get release here. This is a map of the region prior to the invasion. Likely the zoning and uses and demographics will not change much. The manawell here is too good to pass up."

Andir spends the next half an hour going over what he had done research on. He has always kept and eye on Cyoria for expansion of the household. Any good businessman would. Aside from him still glaring at Zorian and Zach like they we still not fessing up to romantic entanglements, he truly didn't ask for anything else. Just dinner once a week.

They were just seeing him out the door when he turned to Zach and siad. "You are not what you reputation states. I appreciate that. Welcome to the family." And then turns leaving down the street with out a glance back. Back straight.

Zorian looks ready to shout after him but thinks better of it. Just sighs deeply and then goes back inside, Zach slowly following after him. "We aren't talking about it now. I get it but not here."

"But you are willing to talk about it?" Zach presses. "I would like to talk about it. Specifically with you." He walks with both hands behind his back fiddling with his fingers.

"I-" Zorian turns to look at him. Not reading more then his emotions. Never Again. Hopefulness was the only thing in the complicated bundle that he picked up on. "I have never given things much thought." He admits.

"But you might be willing to think about them?" Zach asks without adding details.

"I might?" Zorian feels cagey. "Let's just go clean up and we can see about later. When we have proper privacy." He still can't begin to think about the idea. It was outlandish but his father was right. Not as much as he thought.

Imaya was seated at the kitchen table looking over everything when they reentered. "These are extensive." She mutters looking over the documents.

"Yes. My father is well connected it seems." Zorian tells her, moving firmly on.

-

His mothers letter comes in the mail a few days later. It was very short. A request really. For him, Zach and Kirielle to come home this weekend. At the end of the note wasn't an apology but it was something.

'You will not be disowned from the family. Please come talk to me with out your partner at your earliest convenience.
-Cikan Kazinski.
-Your mother who loves you despite what you think.'

All around he didn't feel confident in the upcoming conversation but given the one he had with his mother it could go better then he thinks.

Deciding that his earliest convenience was soon. After showing Zach the letter, He gets a promise to watch Kirielle from Imaya who looks hesitant but gives a firm thumbs up.

Zach had choice words to say and Zorian couldn't convince him to fully stay. He did agree to wait somewhere separate while the conversation went on. "I will be there regardless of what she wants cause I didn't threaten to kick you out of my family cause you piss me off." He then jokes slightly by saying. "I just throw marbles at you."

"Right." Zorian rolls his eyes thinking about Xvims teaching methods and then the exploding marble containers. To much magic needs damned marbles. "Im glad you just use that." He deadpans.

-

A teleport later and Zorian stands in Cirin. The signs of early Autumn settling in around the whole area. Still not used to the passing of seasons, Zorian and Zach look around a bit. Years of summer only makes the seasonal changes more novel then they ever have been.

"Theres a farmers market going on if you want to visit that after." Zach points to a sign just down the road from their house. An advertisement about the local market that has pumpkins painted on it.

With a small second to think. "Sure. It wouldn't hurt to look." He agrees. Probably subjecting himself to neighbors and people who recognise him. Ones that will ask questions and expect answers.

Zorian walks up to his front door briefly wondering when the last time he saw it was. Despite being her at the start of resets he hasn't come back inside for years. Only ever left the building. It looks the same but he feels uncomfortable with how foreign it feels standing here.

Raising a hand he knocks firmly on the detailed and engraved door. Two ravens flying cut into the woods surface. The sound of his knock reverbs the house and then silence.

Zorian feels his mothers mind and soul getting closer to them. Her emotions feeling bewildered and curious. Her face and emotions becomes shocked as she opens the door and spots him standing there with Zach.

"Why did you knock? Come in." She hurries, ushering them both into the house quickly. "I also said to come alone. Why did you bring him." She complains. Nearly immediately.

"He said he wanted to go to the local farm market and agreed to give us privacy while we talk." Zorian ignored her looks.

"I also wanted to see Zorians childhood bedroom and any picture books of baby Zorian. Maybe Baby Damien too but thats for black mail reasons." The menace pipes up. Clearly enjoying the outraged look on Zorians face.

"What?" Zach asks. "This is the most reasonable thing I could want. That being said. Zorian wheres you old bedroom?" He looks around like it will slap him in the face.

"Upstairs the door next to the bathroom." Zorian concedes and feels like its a bad decision so he yells a reminder as the other walks off to that room. "And don't move anything! I have a system that makes it so I know if anyone has messed with anything. I will know Zach Noveda, mark my words!"

"That is the most Zorian thing i've ever heard!" Zach calls back looking elated as he closes the door waving at Zorian as he does.

They stand in silence for a second before Cikan ask's. "Is he always like this?"

"Yes."

"I see."

Zorian can understand based on his last conversation with his father, his mother likely thinks something similar. "We aren't dating." He blurts out.

"Oh, I'm aware." Cikan raises a prim eyebrow at him. "I can only guess at how long it will take but that will not remain true. It is currently the truth."

"I'm sorry?" Zorian asks but is left behind as his mother enters their kitchen. "What does that mean?" Zorian cries as he follows after her.

"Zorian. You have been the most socially oblivious child I have. Cirin girls have looked you way and you haven't even payed them a glance, Some boys as well. At event's some of the younger generation would speak to me about you and then look dejected moments later once they speak with you." She informs while taking a seat.

"That just isn't true!" Zorian complains. He rolls his eyes after that and moves on. "You asked me here? If its just about dinner on weekends then be assured I will do as told father." He starts.

"No." She looks like she swallowed a whole lemon.

"Then what."

"I apologize." She states.

He feels vindictive as he responds with "Yeah?"
"Goddamit Zorian. How did you get to be such a bitch about things." She cracks immediately. Evidently holding in more then he thought.

"Oh i'm a bitch?" He raises his voice.

"Yes!" She screams and then places a hand delicately on the table and calms her self. Zorian can feel her emotions forced away so he schools him self too. "Yes. You are. but I have only my self to thank for this."

He remains silent this time, waiting her out.

"You were correct. Damien in less words confirmed that no matter what he would marry Orissa. That he just wanted our blessing but would do it regardless." She admits and then with pain in her voice. "Fortov also did as you expected. He was unwilling to return home. It took alot of back and forth before he too showed me the failings I have allowed to fester." She snarls out those words like it was a physical pain.

"I haven't been able to get into contact with Kirielle at all. I assume that was you." She eyes him. All she got was his silence so she rolls her eyes and then continues. "I apologize. I know you don't believe me but I genuinely only want the best for my children. To be shown very blatantly that I barely know them is." She cuts off for a second before saying. "Painful."

"And? Sorry but that doesn't make much of a different to me in the long run." Zorian professes. "I came to terms with being the unwanted child years ago."

His mother gets instantly heated. "You were never unwanted!" His mother cries out. Loudly and with assured anger. "Tell me you didn't think this truely and are just trying to anger me." she begs.

His silence rings through the room. Cikans face falls and she looks defeated. Laying her arms on the table she lowers her face into her hands.

"Zorian. You were never unwanted. I can't even imagine how far I have gone wrong that you truly believe that." She speaks quietly now. Keeping her voice low and subdued.

"You never took interest in the family ongoings. I knew you enjoyed magic but you never had an aptitude to it like Damien did." His mother admits. "I will be honest, I didn't truly believe you would accomplish much in school. I believed that you would achieve a mediocre job. I tried so hard to get you interested in the family legacy, you were always bright and willful. It goes a very long distance in business. Your talents would go far in negotiations and with your temperament, you would have been good at the book work that comes with business." She explains still keeping her voice low.

"What about Fortov? You only took interest in me after you gave up on him." Zorian can't trust what shes saying at all.

"We didn't give up on Fortov. He is still being primed to take over the business." She raises her eyes to look at his. "Zorian, it takes more then one person to run a business. Where your brother lacked in intelligence based skills, you lack in social awareness."

"But-" Zorian tries to cut in but is stopped by a hand.

"Before you say why did you try before recently." Cikan narrows her eyes daring him to interject. "Your fifteen Zorian. You deserved your childhood." She insists. "I didn't assume you would do this. I assumed you would rebel like I did as a child and then see reason."

"You want me to think you didn't forget about me?" He bites out, not believing this drivel. "then how do you explain Kirielle's engagement?" He partly knows the answer, but he wonders what she will say now that she's like this.

"Because she deserves a better life then what I had to fight for." Cikan, His mother, firmly states. "I had to work tirelessly for everything here and still neglected, evidently, what matters to me."

"That doesn't make it okay." Zorian points out. "She doesn't want to marry someone, She wants to know why she can't be like her brothers and go to a magic school and learn magic like she sees them doing."

His mother looks like he cut her at that. her head falling back into her hands. They sit in silence for a few minutes before she states. "You would have been amazing as a negotiator. I was at least right about this."

"Your sister is nine." His mother admits. "If she truly didn't want the marriage, I was going to give it up. I would expect three chaperoned dates with him and one negative thing said would end the whole thing." She states. "It was mostly a non written agreement anyway, nothing law binding."

"So why didn't Kiri know that?" Zorian asks.

"Because, how was I to realize I had a family of genius'. Zorian she is nine. I never even told her about it. She had to have heard about it while i was talking to your father, understood what it mean and gone from there." His mother speaks without the normal assurity she usually has.

"How did I go so wrong?" She asks suddenly. "Why did you never talk to me?" She mutters.

"I dont know. I'm not the one to answer that. It's been years." Zorian admits.

Out of nowhere he feels a urge to tell her. "I was stuck in a time loop for the last decade." Her face becomes incredulous before a dawning understand comes over her. "I only talked to you a handful of times." He admits.

She looks horrified. "Why?" She asks and it could be why are you telling me, why are you bullshiting with me, why didn't you speak to me but Zorian cant really answer.

"I spent hours being angry at you and father. Years actually. At the start of every reset you would lecture me, Over and over. Try to manipulate me and Kirielle into your little games too." He admits.

She begins to look horrified. "I-" She cuts off with a semi chocked up breath.

"The one time I did talk to you about anything, we were in Koth. You shouted at me like you did recently. Told me off for trying to tell you how to raise Kirielle. It lasted hours." He tells her trying to keep his emotions in check.

"Did you know." He idly mentioned. "It took me six years to find out why you were visiting Koth and another year for me to see you Again in Koth." He looks at her in the eyes.

She looked horrified. "I can't pretend to know what your feeling." She states with a stuttering voice. "How old are you now." She asks weakly.

"My best guess?" Zorian muses. "I'm twenty five." He does the mental math adding realizing he lost count once the black rooms came into play.

She makes a cut off gasp. Her eyes misting over. "I know the spell you cast. The one that sent me and your father home. It was the gate spell wasn't it?" She asks haltingly.

"Yes."

"Then I believe you." She weeps. "You behave far different from the Zorian that left on the train. Everything makes to much sense now. Damien, the portal, how you know things. Private things. It was just the last piece of puzzle." She speaks through overwhelmed breaths.

"I missed so many of your birthdays." She gets out before weeping in small breaths.

Zorian can't figure out what to do as his mother weeps silently across from him. The small plips of tears coming through her hands to the table below.

Eventually the tears stopped and Cikan looked up at him. "I can't begin to apologize." A few more tears well up in her eyes, and she brushes them away.

"You don't need too." He speaks tiredly. "I moved on years ago."

"Yes." She tells him. "Yes, I do need too." She breaths for a few seconds before asking desperately. "Please come to Dinners. I can't begin to understand what it will take to fix this, or if we can." She clasps her hands tightly. "But I would like to try."

He nods once before moving to stand. "If thats all, I will see you this weekend." Zorian tries to run away.

"Please bring Zach. I know you aren't currently engaged but I can only guess how long and would like to know my soon to be son inlaw." She doesnt turn to look at him as he walks out. "Your father approves."

"I see." Zorian feels the heat start to rise on his face and he resolutely walks up stairs.

"It's not surprising that Zorian see's nothing out of place. Zach looking at everything as close as he can get with out touching it. "Child you was amusing." Zach tells him the moment he closes the door.

"I told my mom about the time loop." Zorian lets him know, walking to his bed and faceplanting into it.

"Oh?" He gets from the other. "I imagine that was an interesting conversation then." Zach jokes as he takes a seat beside Zorians unmoving body. Running a hand softly through Zorians hair.

"Do you feel better?" He asked kindly.

Zorian groans but doesn't move, enjoying the touch. "Not really. Can we come back to the farmers market? It's here all week."

Humming in thought Zach says. "Well I was hoping for some good pumpkin pies." Using his nails to drag against his scalp making Zorian groan. With a smug voice, Zach continues. "But I think theres a different bed calling out names at home."

"Home?"

"Imaya's."

"Oh."

Zorian rolls over to see Zach better. Zach's hand gliding around as he moves coming to rest on his shoulder. giving light pressure. "We could stop and grab a pie then head home." Zorian admits. The idea of pie was just what he needed right now.

The glittering happiness in Zach’s eyes intensifies. "Oh my soulmate, You know how to make me happy." Zach stands immediately, Ignoring Zorians outcry. "Lets go see if your mother is recovered enough to show me baby Zorian pictures. Sorry I just can't pass up the idea."
Zorian rushes after him to stop him but is facing a endless battle and he hears Zach call out the moment he leaves the room. "Hey miss Kazinski! Do you have time to show me photos of Zorian?"

Zorian Sighs deeply.

Somehow Cikan and Zach get along great. The hostilities that Zach holds hidden neatly behind a smile and Cikan happy to show "Her Son's soon to be Fiance," Pictures. Pulling out all the photo albums on by one.

-

Chapter Text

After a horrible dinner, onZothat makes Zorian regret agreeing to it. He headed off to his workshop. He remembers someone he plans to repay.

Spending a few hours getting the design started. Using the blueprints for the Pearl of Aranhall. The ships engines being his main focus.

Spending hours after getting the initial idea down just forcing all the magic formulas layers on each other. He didn't expect it to work immediately and after quickly doing some small test runs, Zorian feels confident on his idea.

He layers the platform with veins for magic transfer. There was a few hours of trial and error where he couldn't figure out but to connect the user's feet to the veins.

Eventually he remembers a toy that Kirielle used. A style of jump rope that was just a ball and chain. "Around the ankle!" He cheers loudly into the workshop. Connecting the magic focus to the users ankle. A tube that can disconnect with a small tug.

It's a few more hours before he makes another break through. Getting the idea that the user would be required to learn magically attaching their feet to the platform.

It took out a lot of the costs in making it. He left the inserts for the shoes to slot into for casual riding stability. Anything that would be considered an evasive maneuver would need the shaping method.

Once he finishes forming the semi wooden material, he realizes that the person he intended this for might not have the skill.

Without checking on anything, he scans the city through relay's and jumping off a few friendly Aranea. He finds her. With a few thank you's broadcasted, he locks up the workshop and walks off into the chilly air.

Arriving at a rather innocuous house, he knocks quickly. Its a few seconds while he waits for her to answer the door. Her face full of confusion. "Zorian?" Neolu gives him a bewildered expression.

"Ah, good." He nods. "So, You're going to need to learn this shaping method to make it work. I'll help you get it right before we leave." Zorian starts explaining with out really thinking about the situation.

"Im sorry?" She seems stunned and puzzled at his behavior. "Where are we heading?"

"The Xlotic desert?" He stares at Neolu with a duh expression. "You asked me to take you before."

"Ah." She muses. "When was this?"

Zorian feels like this should mean something. "About three years ago? When we were looking around the ruins of those two you said were lovers." He feels confused but brushes it off quickly.

"I see." She smiles softly. "Lead on then."

He nods and then heads back to the workshop. It was only a few blocks. "I made sure to make some sort of transport." He explains.

"Their still in early stages so i'm going to get Zach to pressure test them before you take off on them but given we don't have the pearl of Aranhal anymore it will have to suffice." Zorian thinks about it for a few seconds. "I'll probably need some temperature regulation devices. Me and Zach aren't able to handle the heat like you." He smiles lightly at her.

She seems bemused but smiles back. "I see and where is Zach now?"

"Ah?" He thinks it over for a second. "I don't know. Would you like me to get him?" Already trying to pick the best way to do so.

"That would be lovely." She agrees. "I think he would be great to show this too." She giggles lightly.

"It's only a secret for you though." Zorian gives her a confused glance. "I already know Zach will like the idea. He's a adrenaline junkie." Zorian smiles while sending a telepathic nudge to Zach. That just says meet at the Workshop.

"He should be on his way now." He tells her. Arriving infront of the building. The shop door lead to a empty store ǰfront. Zorian and Zach hadn't found a reason for it yet, but it was better safe then sorry. He unlocked the door with a key and lead her inside.

Through the side door to a massive workshop. He hears Neolu make a noise of astonishment. "It's smaller on the outside!" She speaks in astonishment.

"Oh right. Don't tell anyone." Zorian holds a finger to his mouth and makes a shushing noise. "Dimensional magic is rare and requires permits. I don't like the government." He whispers conspiratorially.

"I see." She giggles Again. Walking with him to the work bench he was working at. "Is this that thing you mentioned?" She asks pointing to the weird looking skate board.

"Yeah." Zorian admits. "It runs of the users mana. The circle here acting as a jet propulsion. I haven't gotten down finner movement yet. It mostly just follows two sequences. One for take off and then one for forward movement." He explains annoyed about how he couldn't make it easier to maneuver.

"That's amazing." Neolu calls from beside him. "How fast does it move?"

"Well technically it only goes about 20 knots." He feels annoyed Again. "But thats only due to the physical restrictions of the human body." Zorian then makes an solution. "Oh! I got it."

He walks off leaving Neolu to follow after him curiously. "Goggles. They wouldn't even need to be magical!" He cheers. Using telekinesis to grab metals and planes of glass from his walk through the workshop. "Actually glass could be bad. It would need a film to catch the fragents if it breaks." He magics over a light skin that he dried from on of the beast's him and Zach killed recently. Some giant rat that was hassling a trade route.

"This should work." He shows her the skin. "It's skin has a translucency and is resistant!" He magically carries back all the items he will need. A length of stretch fibers as well.

With quick thoughts he lays everything flat on the table. Using his finger and a fun shaping method, he cuts the items to size. Making sure to create three pairs of the goggles.

At the end he magically folds the metal to hold the items firmly in place. "Done." hold up the goggles inspecting them.

The front door opens and Zach walks briskly in, adorned in Comfy pajamas and his hair a absolute mess. "Is this where you have been for the last few days?" He walks briskly up to Zorian. "Hey Neolu." He greets passively before checking Zorian over.

Finding nothing physically wrong with him he realized what he said. "What are you doing here?" He addressed her.

"Zorian randomly showed up at my house and told me were going to the desert." She stated happily. "He seems quite out of it all things considered."

Zach hums before slapping a palm to his face. "Right." He turns to Zorian and holds out his hand. Zorian places his fist into Zachs. That was obviously not the response Zach was looking for but he will take it. "Can you put down the goggles?" He asks instead.

"Yes?" Zorian half asks. Placing them down on the table deliberately and then looks at Zach. "See, I can do that." He rolls his eyes and then points to the sky board. "I made you a cool new toy."

"And what is that."

"A nearly thought impossible hover board that Zorian seems to think is average but can go faster then twenty knots." Neolu pleasantly states from where she's now seated on a stool.

"Zorian." Zach finally understands the full picture. "How long have you been awake?"

"Why?"

Zach rolls his eyes and rephrases it. "When did you last go to sleep?" He firmly asks.

Thinking it over, Zorian realizes it was probably friday afternoon. "I woke up on Saturday. So Friday?" He guesses. "We went to dinner with my family and then I came here." Zorian muses thinking over when he got here.

"It's monday." Zach cries. Dragging the other into a hold he ushers him to the back of the room. "Okay to bed with you."

"Are you coming?" Zorian asks confused by the turn of events.

The startled laughter from Neolu over road Zach exasperation. "I will after I clean this mess up." He usher's Zorian over the the shop sleep room. Zorian luckily had predicted such an outcome when they made the place and added in sideroom with a bed and some cloths.

"One minute Neolu, I'll just make sure he actually goes to bed and doesn't get new ideas for things." Zach calls over his shoulder while rangling the over exhausted Zorian who doesn't truly believe hes tired.

A few minuets later he has rejoined her at the bench that has the strange new "toys". "So." Zach mutters.

"So." She agrees. Cutting him some slack she brightly tell him. "Zorian admitted to knowing me and making a promise to me, despite me having no memory of that."

Zach face palms and she feels bad adding on. "Something about the Pearl of Aranhal and the desert ruins." She tells him softly. "Look. You probably also know me. I will keep this secret."

"Yes. Actually i'm sorry, I do know you will. I just-" He makes an eye movement at the room. "Would have wanted to tell you different." He admits. The softer feelings for his semi romantic travel partner were still there.

"Was it a memory wipe?" She asks not really expecting an answer but giving him the option. Something he still adored about her.

"Timeloops." He admits. "We were redoing the first month of school. Before when I though id eventually get out, I had a habit of taking you on adventures around the continent. You always believed me the easiest, and were willing to drop everything to hang out with me." He admits.

"But its been years hasn't it." She smiles soothingly at him. "I get my other selves. Your quite cute you know." She giggles when he shoots her a charming smile.
"How long?" She finally asks.

"I don't know. I stopped counting after the first twenty years. It got harder since there wasn't a calender or anything." He looks away after admitting to that. "It's only been ten years for Zorian though."

"Ah. That is a long time." She muses. "And how long spent with me?" Neolu smiles Again at him. Calmly taking in the information with out a fuss.

"I can only guess, I spent years of time with you. Only a few of the restarts were romantic." He admits. "You're a good person to date. We stopped permanently after our age gap got to big."

Zach feels comfortable telling her this. He hadn't realized how much he missed her friendship till now. "Zorian likes to pay back everyone that helped him during the time loops." He points to the sky boards. "My best guess was you wanted him to stay friends with you after the loops."

"That sounds like me." She agrees easily. "I'm amazed. The tech he has there could be revolutionary for Xlotic. The ability to easily traverse the desert would regain large areas of land back." She looks over the items.

Zach laughs lowly. "He probably wasn't thinking of the ramifications of it. We didn’t have those for a long time. He’s probably thinking that killing a large amount of people to steal an airship is no longer a thing we are willing to do."

"Is that what happened?" She asks looking over the devices in new interest. "He mentioned blueprints being used. I can assume he got those by less then good means too."

"There was an issue and we had to find a piece of a key to get home and stop the invasion." Zach admits. "I can't say I regret any of my actions but people die for real now. They dont come back." He voices this with a serious tone.

"That they do." She agrees easily. "I'm amazed you both are still trying to make changes." Neolu looks at him with a firm expression. "I absolve you in my eyes."

"You always did." He admits. "It's no less relieving now that there isn't a time loop."

They talk for a few an hour more about some of Zach favorite adventure spots he took her too. Promising that once his law issues were settled he would take her to see them all. With Zorian now too.

He ended up walking her home before returning to the workshop and glancing at the clock. Barely 4am. Its a wonder that Neolu even willingly came with Zorian out at midnight on a monday.

Zach sighs but feels his heart be lighter. He crawls into the bed and wraps his arms around the cause of his headache and current contentment.

-
The next afternoon, Zorian is looking over the work he did that weekend. He embarrassingly remembers showing up at Neolus house with out realizing she didn't know him.

After going through the plans and the tentative blue prints he feels world weary. Zach offers to go see if Neolu is free for him.

He spends his time waiting looking at the issues. Movement still seems difficult with his idea.

Even if he added flaps to make drag or to aid in movement it would take some extreme levels of skill to have any level of finesse. As they sit now the devices would only be good for forward travel.

Using some mana he recreates the blueprints in the air. Moving things around or drawing in new parts.

"It would be better if it could have wings." He mutters to himself. Looking at the error spot from different angles.

Shoving two of the devices together and then elongating their top. "Maybe it doesn't need mass mobility. Just smaller then a normal ship." He draws charging spots for more then one person and making all the energy pour into one transport vessel.

The single person one still glowing in the air with question marks around the top. He turns to it before drawing tentative levers. Things to allow control from the user. Adding in a sail maybe?

"Oh wow."

Zorian jerks his head around to see Neolu and Zach walking into the workshop. "Ah hi. Sorry for last night." He shifts his eyes between the two of them before refocusing on the blueprints.

"Is this the sky boards?" Neolu comes up next to him. Staring at the weird intricate lines. Her hand brushing through them before retracting.

"Yeah. I just can't figure out how to power them properly. Mana is good but for a long term ride it would be rather impractical." he admits. "I also can't figure out the movement part. I want the single person version to be maneuverable. The monsters in the desert would take us out if we cant dodge quickly." He muses.

Neolu hums and then takes a step back. "What if you used sails?"

"It would require wind and only face the way the wind blows to be effective." Zorian grouches. "The desert is known for wind and sun but I still-" His eyes narrow before he turns to Zach.

"I need a sand wurm." He demands.

Zach blinks his eyes a few times before nodding. "Okay. We can get one tomorrow if you want." He tries to remember where any would be but figures the beasts were common enough.

"I need those tiny wings of theirs. They manage to power the wurms flight through the sunlight. I need to find out how." Zorian feels invigorated. He walks over to the black pages and starts getting the floating blueprints down onto paper.

"I. What?" Neolu walks after him questions visible all over her posture. "What do you need the wings for?" She asks trying to see his idea better.

"Solar Sails." Zorian states evenly. "I want to make solar powering sails. If it would take care of maneuverability cause the user could move the sail and it would take care of powering the boards and vessels." He states.

"Zorian. Thats amazing." She whispers, eyes going wide.

He brushes off the compliment by turning to Zach. "We should get something for uhh." He glances at the clock thats half buried under random pages. "Supper? Lunch?" He isn't really sure which applies.

"I know a place." Zach agrees. "Do you want to legally go to Xlotic or no?"

With a light laugh Neolu looks at him amusedly. "Should you really be casually chatting about breaking the law?" She jokes still amazed by the inventions Zorian was casually making.

"The wards here are on par with Eldenmars Royal Vaults." Zach freely admits. "We actually used it as a base design."

"Oh?" She seems amused but also suddenly interested. "I've heard they were nearly impossible to get into."

Giving a haughty look, Zach smugly says. "Not to be a narcissist but were just that cool." He then looks over to Zorian for confirmation. He sees the other is back to working on the spell formula for the contraptions. "Zorian." He says slightly louder.

The other guy jumps slightly before looking at him annoyed. "What?"

"Food?"

"Oh right."

Shuffling around things he stands up. Placing his pen into his hair with a spin so it holds its spot. "Where did you want to go?"

"Theres a restaurant that opened about a block from here." Zach leads the other two out the doors. "Its owners are from Koth. That I can tell they took advantage of the new portal for ingredients. It's authentic quality." Zach explains in a good mood at the thought of good food. "They also sell good drinks."

"Of course." Zorian rolls his eyes while locking up the door behind him. The wards fully snaping into place as he does. "Oh Neolu, I still need to teach you how to keep your feet attached to the board. It's a skill thats useful for way more then that anyway."

She smiles warmly at him and walks after Zach backwards. "I would be honored too."

"It doesn't work on sand though." Zorian grumbles catching up to Zach and Neolu to walk next to her.

Zach agrees remembering the event. "Yeah. That was a bummer."

-
After getting out of the time loop. Zorian did have one major goal. Get fitter. He wanted to not rely on potions to keep up with Zach now.

He might have resented that Idea if he knew how painful it was. Feeling his arm hurt as he takes a hit from Niam. The boy was teaching him with the help of Taiven how to fight hand to hand.

"Okay get up. Were gonna try Again." Niam has no change, ever calm even as Zorian is in pain.

They had been going through stances and then training sessions. Zorian on the blocking side. He knew it wasn't but this felt like payback for their training where he over powered the other in magic.

Taiven was sitting on the sidelines watching. She was waiting till they were done to go on a run with Zorian. The schedule that the two had designed was to fit to Zorians rather lacking levels of stamina. Mediation, Stances, running.

He gets up off the ground and gets back into stance. Niam shifts his feet and arms before giving a firm nod. He steps back and then waits for Taiven.

"Begin."

This progresses for longer then Zorian wants. Taiven eventually taking over as Zorians anger rises. Niam stands there with a serene care not expression like everything thats happening is okay.

"And i think this is a good spot to stop for the day." Taiven announces walking up to slap a hand on Zorians back. It sends him tumbling back down to the dirt.

She joyously laughs at the angry disgruntled expression he wears after. "God between training you and being trained by Zach. I'd say this is the more enjoyable one." She wipes a tear from her eye. “You look like a disgruntled cat.” Shes pointing and gesturing to his face.

"Glad im a source of entertainment." Zorian grumbles getting to his feet. The sweatpants fully dusty by this point. Niam may be a calm person but he was quite good at knocking people down.

"Okay. Lets get you healed up and then we can be on our way." She gestures back to Niam.

"Okay." The boy agrees walking over to Zorian to start using unknown medical magics on him.

Grumbling Zorian complains. "Why is it the people who are front liners that know medical magic." He feels his body healing up the bruises and strained muscles fixing them selves under dedicated magical energy.

"I can only assume its people in the heat of battle understand the importance of healing." He jokes lightly finishing up the last of his ministrations.

Taiven shakes her head. "I think you just know weird people. Zach isn't a shining beacon of how people exist." She shrugs before explaining. "I don't know any, It's not been a priority when I can just use a potion if im desperate. I usually just use magic to defend my self better."

"Well I don't prefer using magic in a fight." Niam muses. "All done. You should probably work on your stances for next week. The library has a few good volumes on it."

"Ah." Zorian feels better. "Thats something I can get behind."

"Well little book baby, lets get that butt moving." Taiven carjoles pointing to the path she intended to make him run. "That path wont run its self." She jokes before getting him moving.

"Your not as funny as you think you are." He complains.

"I am." She gives a sunny smile before waving back at Niam. "Say hi to Edwin for me! See you next week Niam." She waves as she starts a steady jog beside him.

-

Getting a contract to kill a sand wurm in Miasina was the easy part. Fighting it with out hurting it turned out to be the harder part.

Zorian had two simulacrums training sniper riffles on the beast. Zach was having a blast, almost literally, sending low powered fireballs at the creature to keep its attention.

The original body of Zorian was busy laying the foundation for a net. If he could make it hold fully still even for a second they would be able to kill it and have all its parts left.

Zach was running down the things back as it flew through the air. It was large and turned slow. Giving Zach plenty of time to dash to its tail. The gargantuan creature slowly shifting and turning mid air. The fire balls Irritating it enough to goad the creature into a trap easily.

The sand wurm still had some sort of mental barrier on it. Zorian couldn't tell much about that. Assuming its an evolutionary adaptation to deal with Miasina mages. It slightly implied there was a precedent for it in this area.

Zach's movements as the body became a slope turned into a slide. Gliding down its tail till he reaches the desert sands. He launches off the ground into a fly. Zooming towards the net Zorian had set up.

A large array that would spring when a good amount of mana was pushed into it Zorian was wearing dust colored cloths so the beast shouldn't see him.

Zach blasts past him, sending sand all over the place. Zorian takes a second to wipe the sand from his goggles before getting into position Again.

Through the mental link with his Simulacrums he tells them to be ready. The creature blind in its anger was following quickly after Zach. Who was now hovering mockingly on the other side of the array. Sticking out his tongue and taunting it.

The trap's web shoots out, capturing the wurm and in the second it struggles the battle is over. From their slightly buried vantage points. Two shots ring out. One going through the creatures heart and another going through its brain.

It flails for a second but is already dead. It knew it. The impending dread of dying making it loose its mental faculties even further.

Zorian feels Zach's magic grappling him tugging his body away. Just in time as the creatures uncaptured tail whips around to try and slap him.

They collide mid air as Zach releases his magic to grab Zorian around the waist. Pulling him up easily. Zorian places his feet on the tops of Zachs for stability but is watching the creature until they see no signs of life.

Saying a quick congratulations to his simulacrums. He looks over to Zach. "Well. Now we just need to get it back to the workshop." He looks back at the dead creature thinking about what he can do with its body.

"Don't you think its a bit big to fit?" Zach asks with an amused lit to his voice. "We also have to turn in something as proof of death."

"Ugh fine." Zorian groans. "Lets just carve it up for the useful parts and move on. I want its intestines and the wings for sure." He thinks over the most useful parts.

"Thats gross." Zach says lowering them to the ground softly. "Anything else?"

"Yeah. I want its hide to make heat resistant outfits. It's durable too, so I should be able to carve the right formula into it." He muses thinking of it like study hide. "If I treat it, I wont need new hide for at least a few projects."

Zorian gets off Zach's feet walking over too the body. "We should also harvest its glands and blood for Kael. No idea if its useful but better safe then sorry."

Looking rightfully disgusted Zach watches him work instead. The Simulacrums coming over to help. Zorian handing enhanced knives to the both of them. "We can back the head for proof of conquest." He gestures with the knife to the face area. "Oh we need to get its pituitary gland and spinal fluid. It was mentioned as a binding agent in some alchemy books."

It's few hours later and around a hundred small wings along with other body party sectioned off and harvested. Zorian and his simulacrums collecting the wurms meat as well. To Zach's grossed out feelings, Zorian was more then happy to sell it in town.

It was a delicacy in the right hands.

-

Back at the workshop Neolu was seated across from him as he takes apart the wings in front of him. He has deconstructed a few by this point and thinks he finally understands how they function.

"So. I will be honest." Zorian admits. "This actually could make solar sails." He uses magic to form blue prints, drawing and recreating the structures that the wurm uses to draw power from the sun. "I think we could even make a synthetic version of this but I don't know how much i'll need sun powered fabric." he muses thinking over the idea a bit.

"But you believe you could make it?" Neolu questions her dangling feet stopping in their movements as she focuses in on the words. "You see a way?"

"So." Zorian points to a cell system that he recreated from the creature. "This is how the sunlight goes in. It creates small packets of energy that would usually become heat energy before being released down these channels." He guides his finger down the image. "They act almost like a converter. Creating direct current along the veins to charge the creature with magic."

"I see." Neolu blinks at him.

"Yeah." He agrees with out looking at her properly. "I thought it was weird when I first saw them fly. Theres no mana wells around. Where do they get their power. Turned out to be another abundant source. The sun."

"I just need to ask." She cuts in. "Are you saying we could charge mana through the sunlight?" She seems calm but Zorian looks over at her because theres a ball of complicated emotions predominantly urgency to her words.

"Yes."

"How." She asks him. "And how much would it take for you to make that."

"Um." He thinks quickly. "I don't know how to explain that or how to answer that."

"I see." She muses.

"It would take people who specialize in this field. I don't work with the products that it would take to make the non organic version of these creatures skin." Zorian admits. He knew he wasn't a chemist so it wasn't a hit to his pride or anything. "That side is actually not magic in nature. The outcome is magical yes but the compounds and how the cells work aren't." He points at the revenant spots on the floating diagram.

"But you believe these wings can give the answers to this problem." Neolu presses.

"Oh for certain." He smiles at her. "I'm gonna use the wings as proof of concept if you want. I'm using them to make the Solar Sails." Zorian grabs a wing from the expanded storage box.

A good amount of time later, he was holding a prototype of the sky board. The wings veins hooked in to the channels he designed to flow magic. "Well. Lets go see if Zack is done with his meeting." Zorian feels happy pride at the three devices in front of him. Layered spell formula and lines of magical veins that come together neatly.

"Here." He passes Neolu sky blue goggles to match her markings. "I made my self and Zach a pair too." He holds up two more. A pale purple one and a light pink one. "Kirielle was watching me make them at home and requested I color them after cotton candy."

"I see." She looks amuses looking over the goggles in her hand.

-

Grabbing Zach actually was easy. He was just getting out the lawyer's meeting when they went to see him. The excited burst when he saw them holding the devices was a good thank you.
They make a quick pace to the field Zach's family owns. The empty field that They used in the past for Zorian's magic practice. The tree on the hill sitting calmly amongst the field.

After getting the goggles on, pink to match his eyes. He looks at Zorian. "So tell me again. What you want me to do?" Zach handles the thing with ease. Grabbing the side with one hand he flips it up. "Just send magic in?" He asks leaning down to attaching the ankle attachment quickly. His mana making it illuminate slightly as it travels through the connection.

"Well, I need you to unfurl its mast and sail. Then step on and yeah, Channel some magic. I think it should work after that on its own but not confident." Zorian admits setting his own board on the ground.

With a shrug, Zach sets it down and hops on. Going through the steps easily. The jets starting up quickly pushing him into the sky. With how he design it the lift off was timed. After a few seconds of rising it swapped to forward movement.

Zach attaching his feet to the device as it starts moving. Exhilaration pouring off him in waves. Just like that he was moving. One arm on the sail as he leans it down into a upward climb.

Neolu and Zorian watch as Zach screams in joy. Watching as he cuts the power flipping in the air with ease. The momentum keeps him in the air for a count of three. His dark black hair flowing around him as Zach turns his head to look at the ground.

The board falling as gravity forces it into a deep Descent. His jacket flapping around behind him in the drag of the air.

Zorian feels fear as he approaches the ground. It's unfounded as Zach wrenches the sail up catching the wind and rapidly smooth out like a half pipe about ten feet from the ground whizzing past them as he rights it with arm strength alone and pours magic into the machine to burst off into the sky.

Feeling his heart restart he mutters out. "I need to add a outfit that cushions falls. That was horrible for my nervous system." He feels his nerves firing. Smal prinks of energy coursing under his skin and in his bones. His spine straightening as Zach does some other over the top maneuvers. Zorians eyes following the movement with a tense back.

"You did want a stress test." Neolu jokes but looks as concerned as him.

"Stress testing me at this point." He rolls his eyes before focusing on his own device. "I'm going to just try to do it my self with out his crazy way." Zorian states readying him self for his own take off.

Nodding she joins him as well. They hear a whoop of joy in the distance and know Zach is genuinely enjoying him self. "He would be safe right?" She asks.

"I mean. He can fly. With out that. I assume if he thinks he can't do it he will just fly." Zorian admits. Glancing at where he spots the other doing barrel rolls in the sky. "I think? I'm gonna make the safety outfits." He suddenly decides as he watches Zach weave the trees. The upper arm strength doing most of the work to force maneuvers.

Zorians attempt was much more sedate. Mostly because he didn't have monstrous magical reverses or physical strength to pour into it. It works as intended from what he can tell. Powering its self off the wings and not him. It only gets going to just above running speed. As he expected, between twenty to thirty knots of speed.

Neolu seems to be enjoying her ride as well, swaying the device back and forth and up and down. Nothing extreme but enough that it moved a good amount.

A few minutes later, Zach makes his way back to the field at the non accelerated speed. A wide smile across his face. "I ran out of mana." He immediately admits. "That was amazing, Zorian I know this was for Neolu but god I adore this." He moves around on it. Swaying back and forth as he gets closer to them.

"Did you find it had any issues?" Zorian ask's. "You did alot on it."

With a hum he thinks about it. "I think if I do this alot more, the part its attached to here." Zach leans down to point at the joint between the board and the sail. "Might break."

"I'm not shocked but i'll figure out a way to reinforce it." Zorian muses. "Nothing else besides that?"

"No." Zach says cheerily. "It's fantastic. A real gem.

Interjecting Neolu points out her findings. "I think for long term travel this might actually get tiring to stand the whole time. It works for short jaunts or even in smaller areas but I think a larger version like your illusions showed might be more useful in distance travel." she admits looking contemplative about the entire device.

"That is a good point. I will probably need to make it with more sails then these. I think since they don't need to the maneuverability. I could have then connected like a large sail. It will need..." He drains off thinking mentally about the options that the controlling device could look like. Muttering to himself as he casually moves around the field in circles.

Neolu laughs casually moving over to where Zach was happily swaying back in forth in quick movements. "He's delightful. I almost am sad that we weren't friends before your situation."

Zach laugh's boisterously at her. "Oh he was a prick before everything. OG Zorian was a prickly pear. You wouldn't have liked him nearly as much." he cuts the power letting the device lower to the ground. "all mopey and angry. It was like a chipmunk."

She looks shocked at that. "He changed so much then." Glancing him over and then thinking to her self. "I guess you have too."

"Oh yeah." He agrees easily. "I was not going anywhere. Rumors made me sounds better back then not worse." He grins widely. "It did us both a lot of good honestly. It sucked but also was just what we needed to get anywhere." Zach looked over to Zorian as the other was checking over some of the boards joints while he flew.

Letting the silence invade for a bit Neolu watches him with a look hes seen on her before. "What?" He decides to bite the bullet. "You see something?"

"I think you lucked out." She admits. "I'm tempted with the technology he just presented to make offers. His skills would be greatly appreciated anywhere he goes and im tempted to try and get that for my self." She says giving him a sly smile.

"But I lucked out." Zach grins widely at her.

"But you lucked out." She agrees. "I'm quite excited for the travels into the desert." Neolu changes the topic easily eyes sparkling at the idea of all the ruins she will get to see first hand.

-

Dinner was awkward. Everyone seated around a massive feast. The food beautifully made. Zorian can tell this means alot to his mother. She was visibly trying to make a good impression.

No one was talking. Zach and Orissa were seated in between Damien and Zorian looking around unsure. With his mother and father at both ends. Kirielle force to sit next to Fortov Across the table from Zorian. Slowly sipping at a glass of wine Zach looked at Zorian imploringly. Mentally telling him to say something.

Zorian sends him a mental communication that basically was, no. I'm quite good here.

This dinner was going about as well as the first attempt. The previous week was just his parents chatting with Damien and Orissa about their current expedition.

Breaking the silence. Andir calmly asks. “So Zorian, I heard you have been doing well in your apprenticeship.”

“What apprenticeship?” Zorian feels confused and reaches for some of the garden Salad. Waiting for his father to explain.

“I was under the impression you were apprenticing under professor Xvim?” His father raises an eyebrow but follows Zorian's lead and starts collecting food. It breaks the rest of the table into movement as well. Everyone collecting what they want.

“Can you pass me the gravy Zach?” Fortov asks quietly. Zach shoots him a confused look before reaching over Zorians plate to grab the gravy and hand it across the table.

With an annoyed glare Zorian stares at his brother when answering his father. “I haven’t actually made any official announcement to that. It’s been mentioned but currently its just an idea.” He admits thinking about how most of his skills already come from the mans teachings. He was actually the one to bring it up and Xvim was the hesitant one currently.

“Ah.” Andir hums dismissively. He rests his forearms on the edge of the table cutting into the meat on his plate with the proper knives.

Rolling his eyes, Zorian makes a point of placing his elbows on the table and leaning slightly. His mothers disagreeable look made it worth it.

The conversation lulled after that. After a few minutes of it. “This tastes amazing.” Zach happily compliments Cikan. “Did you use Lemongrass or anything for the base on the meat?” He ask’s her.

She plasters on a smile and nods. “Yes, I encased it in the concoction and left it to marinate since last night. It has more of a bite then I wanted but I like how it turned out.” She gestures to the potatoes. “I was hoping to balance the meal by making the meat sweeter and the potatoes more spiced.”

“Oh I see that.” Zach chirps. A bright smile on his face. “I will try that another time then. Imaya has been teaching me rudimentary cooking.” He brings up.

“That sounds fun. I wasn’t aware you had a interesting in cooking.” She points out.

He takes a bite, and finishes it before responding. “It’s a new thing. Aside from the court meetings my life is rather relaxed for now.” He rolls his eyes thinking about the meetings hes been attending.

“If you would like.” Cikan starts while grabbing the wine glass in front of her. “You can always come over and I can teach you some family recipes.”

A warm and bright emotion fades into the room and Zach meets her eyes with a happy gaze. “I honestly would love that.” He admits honestly.

Fortov from his spot makes a annoyed noise. “Of course you would.” He mutters under his breath.

Cikan is quick to shut him done. “Not now Fortov.” She scolds.

Zorian feels Kirielles feet tapping his under the table. He lightly kicks her back giving a somewhat competitive look her way.

“Oh thats fine.” Fortov grumbles, poking at the potatoes and watching them fade the stabs as the mash potatoes fade back to them selves. “I’ll just shut up again.”

“Can we not do this now?” Cikan grouses. “I just want a nice family dinner.”

“What ever.”

The table descends into silence again. Zorian finishing his food as him and Kirielle play under the table. Zorians foot attack striking out at an angle to catch hers. He misses and kicks Fortov under the table. Catching his foot at an odd angle and hurting him more then Zorian intended.

“Zorian what the hell!” He screeches, pushing him self away from the table to inspect his foot. “Why are you still wearing your shoes!” He glares at Zorian eyes blazing in anger and pent up aggression.

“Because we teleported here and I forgot.” Zorian deadpans not apologizing at all.

“Fuck you Zorian.” Fortov bites out rubbing his foot.

“Right back at you.”

Cikan cuts in at that point. “Can you please not fight at the dinner table?” She rolls her eyes and looks apologetically to Orissa and Zach. “We have guests.”

“Oh right. Gotta keep a good impression. Can’t let them know what family their getting into.” Zorian gives a fake smile while taking a bit out of a piece of bread ladened with garlic butter. “Can’t have that.”

“Oh fuck you Zorian!” Fortov stands up. His foot left forgotten as he gets angrier. “I can’t believe he would put up with you and your miserable attitude!” Gesturing to Zach who was awkwardly chewing his food.

“Oh my miserable attitude?” Zorian snarls. Standing as well. Kirielle slinks off her chair to skirt around the table to stand beside Zach. Putting a hand in his for comfort. “What about your holier then thou personality?”

Damien gets into the fight now. “Zorian that isn’t fair. You both need to calm down.” He tries to placate holding up his hands to calm them both.

“Oh your siding with him then?”

“There isn’t sides Zorian.” Damien rolls his eyes “I just think that your being harsh on your brother.”

“I’m being harsh?” Zorian croaks, unable to believe his ears. “He insulted me first!”

Fortov gets angier. “Because you always treated me like I was a useless wurm!”

“Well you grow up with people who only befriend you to for your brother!” Zorian snaps. “You remember Emilia? From grade school? She only tried to befriended me to date you!” he waves his hands about, knocking over his wine glass. Zach was quick to catch it with magic and set it further from the blast zone.

“Maybe.” Fortov starts with a intentional bite to his voice. “If you weren't such a judgemental prick! People would want to hang out with you! You pretentious judgemental asshole who thinks he's better then everyone.” Fortov angrily slams his chair back into the table. The plates and cutlery clattering in the hit.

"You ever think, little, perfect, Zorian, might have no friends because you're a judgemental self centered baby." Fortov separates the words getting louder with each addition.

“Thats enough out of both of you.” Andir’s deep voice breaks into the room. “I won’t let your mothers cooking go to waste like this.” He gestures for them to both sit down. Fortov reluctantly does. Falling into his chair in a huff.

Zorian stands there in the silence of the room. His parents sitting there shocked into silence. Damien and Orissa look between both in muted curiosity and horror. Zorian refocuses on Fortov and reaches back to grab Zach’s arm.

"Fuck you. All of you."

Looking back to ensure he has both Zach and Kirielle then teleports out. Leaving the entire table in silence in the aftermath.

Chapter Text

After the horrible dinner 2.0. Zorian digs his time into working on projects. Tinkering with the finer parts of his guns.

He had been spending hours in his workshop getting more and more annoyed with the work. Zach was out with Taiven practicing. They were going through harder and harder magics to improve her area of expertise. Zorian had sent him off after the tentative attempts to make him happier didnt do more then make it harder to focus.

He feels his control over the rather fine pieces of metal. The small device before him falling apart before him. It would have been a mini distillation device. One issue that Zorian had found in their travels was the issue that came from no water.

While long terms effects of anything were not an issue in the timeloops. Zach raging alcoholism, dehydration, lack of sleep, or improper diet. Zorian got a first hand experience that the human body eventually rejects your bad choices.

His slowly building low sleep count was not helping his irritability at all.

Inhaling deeply in a groan, he pushes away from the table. Leaving the entire thing behind as he forfeits his work to walk out the building. Locking the place up and leaving a small note on his work desk incase Zach or Kael come by.

It was mid afternoon but as the summer was nearly all gone and fall was waking up. He was experiencing a chill again. He grabbed his coat, an ulster coat, was keeping him warm but left his face chilled in the breeze.

The full walk to the academy was less then an hour. He could have teleported but walking was part of relaxing he has been told. Multiple times. By a few sources. Taiven being one.

Walking through the rebuilding efforts was interesting. That fountain that had been repaired was nearly finished being repaired a second time. The main halls were back looking something similar to their past self.

Zorian looked around as he walked on. It was hard to tell that this whole place was under attack recently. It had been a few months and a rather intense amount of money, so it wasn’t surprising.

The wards were still being fully replaced. Places weren’t fully back to their original versions. Places like the alchemy rooms and some of the astronomy towers weren’t warded against unauthorized uses.

He carried on till he got to a familiar door. His mentor whos room was entirely undamaged in the fights. Zorian did wonder if Xvim was just that good or because he had prewarning he ensured that.

Knocking four times he waits to be called in.

“Come in.” The man inside calls out. His voice penetrating through the door with ease.

Zorian enters with little more then a hello, closing the door and then slouching into a chair next to the mans desk. He schooches the chair closer. Xvims raised eye brow only goes higher as he lays his arms on the mans desk and flops his head into the triangle of arms.

“Yes?” Xvim questions him. Amusement in his voice. “Did you want a pillow?”

“Maybe?” Zorian groans flipping his head to be able to see the older man. “I’m annoyed.”

“I can tell.” Xvim carries on with his writing. Penning down different things in his books. “I can hardly guess what you need right now.”

“Advice? You are my mentor.”

“I am as much your mentor as you are my student.” Xvim snorts before writing something down. “We have been over this many times, young one.”

Rolling his eyes Zorian takes a peak at the others work. “Is that the syllabus?” He questions, reading the document sideways and upside down easily.

“Yes, I was hoping to get my students back on track.” He explains. “They have missed months of time. I have been making arguments that this year should be extended for half a semester next year for students that wish for it. There is only so many tomorrows after all.” the man snarks giving a amused look at the not kid seated at his desk.

“Ugh.” Zorian groans. “I have been dreading going back to school for two more years and you want me to go for two and a half?” He grouches but does appreciate the man is trying to improve the students skills.

“Well, I actually assumed you and Zach would test out rather shortly.” He scrunches his nose before running a finger over the page he just wrote on. The ink coming away as he passes flowing around his finger and into a small pot on the side. Zorian watches with mild fascination at the mans control.

“You sure you don't want a apprentice?” Zorian asks inspite of the answer he already knows he would get.

“Zorian. You are the closest to an apprentice that I will likely get.” The man finally sets the pen down and sits back in his chair. “But I don’t think that would benefit either of us. If you want help with something just ask like a normal friend.” Xvim snarks looking overly amused at him.

Blinking multiple times, Zorian mulls it over. “Right. You two?” He hesitantly gives back.

“Oh make no mistake. I have a few things that when the dust settles I would like your rather outstanding skills would be called on for.” Xvim informs him before giving a low gesture his hand sweeping in his direction. “Whats your issue?”

“This is going to be lame, but family.” Zorian turns his head to hide in his arms again. “I’m at wits end with the entire thing.”

“So you came to me?” Xvim asks his voice displaying his confusion.

“Yes.”

“Why?” The man asks rather confused by the insistence.

“I feel like i’m going crazy.” He flings him self up, streching out his legs and leaning back in the chair. It rocking slightly to balance on two points. “I know Alanic or Ilsa might be able to help but they wont be fully honest? You know? They will be nice to me.” He rolls his eyes staring at the ornate ceiling. “Did you get a architect to design the roof?” He asks out of nowhere. Eyes glancing over the gaveled ceiling with carved animals displaying a scene.

“Yes, of course I did. I spend hours here. Why would I not make it enjoyable.” Xvim readily informs him. “So you trust my blunt honesty and came to me? Forgive me for still finding that strange.”

“Yep.” Zorian pops the p reaching up as he leans back to ensure his glasses stay on his head. “So can I rant and you then tell me if im the crazy one?”

Looking down as his pages, Xvim also rolls his eyes before settling in. hands folding over the desk to support his chin. “I don’t see how I get out of this. Go right ahead.”

“I will pretend you aren’t enjoying that friendship you mentioned earlier.” He catches a faintly amused expression thats quickly hidden on the others face. “Okay, so.”

It takes a while, Zorian eventually pacing around the room as he rants. His anger baked and cultivated over the years. Xvim doesn’t speak up much aside from small clarifying questions. Zorian feels better that the man keeps his full attention on him, someone actually caring about his issues. It felt nice to have friends. He was willing to bet past Zorian would never have been in this situation. Not for many years and by then who knows what life he lived.

“Then Fortov called me A judgemental self centered baby!” He flings his hands up into the air. “Why should I even bother trying to make nice with the lot of them?!” He grouches out.

“Because the alternative is not having family at all anymore.” Xvim finally points out. “That is likely why you continue to try and have such a emotional reaction to this.” He tilts his head before waiting for Zorian.

“I just can’t get why they didn’t say anything till I fought back?” He despairs, finally flopping back into his chair. “It’s always like this. Everything is fine till I snap back and then its my fault.”

“Well to be perfectly honest. You are rather judgemental.” Xvim states and continues bowling over the offend noise Zorian made. “You also have many redeemable traits. Ones I think your family over looked and ones you cultivated over years that they just can’t grasp.” He moves his pinky in small movements as he thinks outloud.

“I am certain with prolonged dinners you might find positives about your family members. It does seem that you will have to take the lions share of making that happen.” Xvim admits. “That would mean talking to your family about your life. Telling them about what your doing and what your plans are. They don’t know you.”

The words hit Zorian hard. It was truthful. He spent so many years pushing them away before the loops and now it was allmost hopeless to think they could.

“That is to say. Their treatment of you isn’t fair but your now by technicality nine years Fortovs senior and if im not mistaken older then Damien as well.” the older man points out. “Your closer in age to me then to your younger brother. This should mean something to you I like to think.”

“But why do I have to be the one to put in the effort.” He grumbles. “Its not fair.”

“Zorian you were in a timeloop, you of all people should know.” The man smirks at him knowingly. “Life isn’t fair.”

A aggrieved groan later and they sit in silence for a minute.

“You really think I should just try harder?” He finally asks.

“Honestly? Yes.” Xvim answers. “You are one of the most dedicated people I’ve met. Putting effort into things thought literally impossible. If all your family needs to rebuild its self is effort. I believe you are the best equipped to do it.” He compliments slightly. Picking up his pen as he assumes the conversation has come to an end. “Also we have been requested to help with the astronomy tower’s safety wards next week. I was going to visit later tomorrow to get that rolling.”

Zorian accepts the change in topic before getting into it. “I see, anything I can work on now?” He gestures to the small space he has slowly taken over at the mans desk. Getting passed a pen and a small stack of documents. “Also can you teach me how you extract the ink from the page? That was rather useful.”

The eye roll the other gave him was quickly followed up with a agreement. “I’ve created a monster it would seem.”

-

Both Zach and Zorian were taking the night off. Zach had wanted to view a celestial event. He had seen people taking about it for literal decade and now that he finally gets a chance to watch it, dragged Zorian off to their tree to just that.

“Its a rainbow moon Zorian!” Zach cherrily informs as the other is being directed up the hill. “Theres even said to be a aurora lately into the night.”

“I see.” He muses slightly excited himself to see the sight. “It actually called the Crystal Dawn Night. It happens once ever decade. It’s likely a result of migrating butterflies.”

“Zorian. Please don’t knowledge the whimsy out of this for me. I want it to feel magical.” Zach complains. “Tell me about the details tomorrow after I’ve enjoyed the sight first.”

“Okay.” Zorian is forced onto a blanket beneath the tree. A basket beside and the wide base candles around the area giving him pause. “Is this?” He asks unsure.

“Well. Kinda of?” Zach admits. “It doesn’t need to be but we can call it that.” Zach suddenly finds an interest in bringing out the food. Pulling out multiple dishes. Zorian spots a few he knows easily. Pohanci and Fritule being the quickest to spot. Slices of lemons and oranges on the side.

After its all set out, there is a spread around him. Cheeses and sliced meat all within eating range. Leaving a spot next to Zorian for Zach. “This is extensive.” He looks at the food before noticing. “Is this my mothers picnic set?”

“Oh yeah.” Zach shifts slightly. Setting down a bottle of orange juice with mugs on each side. “I asked her. When she offered to teach me recipes, I took her up on that.” He tells Zorian with out shame. “I told her about my plans and she was happy to teach me how to make hand foods.” He holds out the plate of Fritule. “I made these this morning. All on my own.”

Zorian feels conflicted but after tentatively taking one. The fritter was slightly more dense then he was used to, but it made him feel really loved.

The sun was starting to set so Zach smiled at him before setting about lighting all the candles. Small fire balls igniting around him before dancing in a be made sequence to light the wicks. Small glowing orbs that Zorian recognised coming to life and scattering across the hill side.

It made the area light up enough not to be scary but not bright enough to drown out the sky in light polution.

They sit in silence while Zorian thinks though his own thoughts. “You like my family?”

“To a point yes.” Zach easily answers. “It is nice to have people who welcome me like they currently are.” he tells him. Shifting to stare at Zorian. “I know you are having issues with them so i’ve tried not to create waves. If you really can’t do it, We still would have each other.”

“You like having that though?” Zorian feels the need to ask. “A family I mean.”

Getting shifty Zach pulls out six pack of beer while not answering. Zorian waits him out calmly. His internal conflict waiting for the answer.

“If its just the two of us, I would be happy.” Zach tells him. Cracking the top on a can. “I would love being apart of a family. I’ve gotten adjusted to having Kirielle hanging off me like she does you, its been nice.” Zach smiles warmly thinking about it.

While they were talking. The moon slowly had started to rise. The normal glow covered in a haze of brilant rainbow. The colors shifting and cascading over the surface. They both look up at it as it rises. The world feeling psychedelic in the shifting colors. “Wow thats worth it.” Zach gets out in astonishment.

“Its amazing.” Zorian admits. Enjoying the beauty of the planet. “I’m going to make an effort to work it out with the.” He states admitting it to the world for the first time.

Zachs head whips over to him. Shocked and startled. “Wait. You don’t need to do that for me!” He waves his not in use hand. “My family has been dead my whole life and im fine. I wont be upset if you don’t want to fix things with your family. Its really fine. Don’t do that-”

“Zach shut up.” Zorian complains over him. “Its not just for you.” He grouches looking over at the other. The rainbows reflecting off the moon painting Zach and everything else around them in a shifting color gradient.

“Oh.”

“I need to do this for my self too.” Zorian admits feeling out of breath at the sight before him. “You look cool.”

“You do as well.” Zach smiles widely. “I’d say you look rather pretty in the moonlight.”

Finally feeling like the moment was right. Zorian asks him by blurting out the question. “Are you even attracted to me?”

Bursting into startled laughter Zach sets his can down to hold his stomach. Zorian feels like complaining before Zach gets out words. “Define attracted.”

“Um.” Zorian startles. “Do you even want to have sex with me?” Trying to hold back his uncomfortable feelings at the idea.

This has Zach bursting into laughter again. Leaning into Zorians side for stability.

"What?" Zorian asks getting Defensive. "that's a part of the equation." He angrily bites out, picking up one of the pieces of cheese to take his anger out on.

"Sorry, Sorry.” Zach consols him. Patting Zorian on the thigh. “But probably not." Zach finally calms down. He looks up from where hes leaning to smile at him. " You just seemed so put out at the idea that I couldn't help but laugh."

Zach takes a second to watch the rainbows drift across them. “Physically. You’re adorable, absolutely scary but adorable. Mentally god yes, Emotionally also infinity yes." He lists tapping his hand each time he adds another thing.

Theres a slightly far look in his smile and finishes his little explanation. "Sexually is a big no."

"Ah." Zorian doesn't know how to feel about that. "I'm slightly relieved?" he tilts his head with a scrunched confused expression.

"There." Zach sits up quickly startling him. "That's what I mean by physically. You’re adorable." he places his hands in the grass getting closer to Zorian.

"What?" Zorian holds him self still as Zach’s face gets close to his.

"You do this head tilt thing and your eye brows scrunch up when your confused." Zach pokes him between the eyes. "It's adorable."

"Can we get back on subject." Zorian croaks turning brilliant red.

"you are the subject." Zach smiles charmingly. "but fine." he allows sitting back. "the answer is yes, I'm attracted to you. Just not sexually. I don’t think I care about that as much."

“Where does that leave us?” Zorian asks lapsing them both into silence.

They sit watching the moon and eat a few of the treats Zach prepared while they both think.

“Together?” Zach sighs looking up at the sky and enjoying the celestial event in passing. "I'll be entirely honest. there isn't a life I can imagine with out you there." he relaxes while smiling.

"Maybe once, before the loops. I would have eventually given into everything found a woman and had kids. I likely would have only done it out of obligation." Zach admits freely. "I'm the last Noveda. it's meant to mean something." he turns to Zorian the wind brushing through the field. "Are you attracted to me?"

Zorians face turns darker red and he feels caged for a second before forcing him self to relax. "Yes." he gets out.

"Oh?" Zach leans over letting his body flop onto the ground next to Zorian. Folding his arms under his chin as he looks up at zorian. "Do tell." Zorian can tell hes fishing for compliments and assurances.

"I uh." he flounders. "You’re brilliant." he blurts. "You're handsome and I uh emotionally like you." Zach gives a bright smile that has Zorian relaxing more and spilling more. "You're alot smarter then people give you credit for, I never feel like I'm talking to a wall." he goes on. "You make me laugh and I love that."

"Do you love me?" Zach whispers like the cat that got the canary.

"Maybe?" zorian feels his face burn agian. his ears feel like their smoking. "I can't imagine my life with out you either."

"So." Zach presses. "You're willing to be my boyfriend?"

"We won't have sex right?" Zorian tentatively asks. Now that he's sure his face can't burn more he feels it can't be worse saying these things.

"I kinda want to kiss you but yeah that's as far as I'm interested in." Zach kicks his legs back and forth his eyes becoming crescents with how wide he's smiling.

"I think that's as far as I'm willing to go too." zorian admits hurrying to hides his face in his arms again.

The sky opens up at that. The crystal shards and the sharp buzzing signifying the start of the Aurora. Zorian immediately looks up and feels slightly in awe. It illuminates the night sky with crystal-like light, shimmering in a rainbow of colors.

"Awesome!" Zach chirps. rolling around to lay down again. "You can calm down now. We should relax and enjoy the food.” Zach picks up his drink again, eyes fully trained on the sky.

Zorian doesn’t look over but asks. “Were not going to kiss?”

“Do you want to?”

“Uh I don't think so.”

“Then nope!” Zach states cheerfully. “I wouldn’t mind if you fed me the cheese. It could be romantic and I did spend so much time making all this for us.” He looks over at Zorian with a mischievous expression.

Rolling his eyes, Zorian feels content as he picks up the platter.

-

The before and after of dating Zach weren’t much different. In fact nothing outward had really changed. The biggest different was they now communicated about it. Zach was slightly boastful about the issue too.

In the last week before everyone returning to the dorms. He was consistently saying small little comments with a smug expression. Things that eluded to the concept. He would smirk and say something then look at Zorian with a elated expression.

Zorian was rolling his eyes alot lately he found.

To aid in the rebuilding and all the intricate ward placements. Zorian had been spending most of the days at the school. He set aside most of his other work to do so. Only being at Imayas during the morning for breakfast and dinner.

Zorian was working with the other students who got Xvim as a mentor. All of them were expected to aid in the rebuilding. Unsurprising there was only a few students who had him as a mentor.

Only two of them were in fourth year. This was actually the first time Zorian had interacted with the other students. It always surprised him how many things were still unknown about his mentor.

The students ranged from reluctant to over zealous. The fact that he hadn’t heard heads or tails of them from Xvim meant little to him. The man was secretive and due to the goals in the time loop, had no reason to introduce them.

Watching Xvim teaching from an outside perspective made him feel vindicated. The students were consistently told to do it again. This time better. The older man would rub a hand down their world, willing the stone to reform and tell them to do it again.

Zorian was working on the protection wards. Using the shaping method they were just taught to carve lines of spell formula into the bricks. Nora boole was checking over everyone's work every so often. Taking a break from her own extensive project to just see over see the project.

From where Zorian was perched on a ladder, Legs straddled on either side. His vision was slightly obscured as her gravity defying hair came in front of him. She was looking up at his work from her spot on the ground.

“Prefect as before, I’m very impressed mister Kazinski.” Her eyes traveled over the work with glee. He bets its something to do with pride in her craft. Seeing someone else like it too seemed to make the woman happy. Even at his current level the woman was a source of help. Giving him new avenues to research and find what hes looking for. She also would look over his work with glee and help him.

It was astounding how little her attitude changed as he improved. Unlike others she seemed to know something but asked no questions and just reveled in having someone to work with.

“I think actually this could be simplified. I don’t think this equation is necessary for it to work. We could remove it so people don't have to add as much mana.” Zorian admitted. Pointing at the spot in question.

She rose using magic to fly up and look at what he was referring too. “Oh I see.” She mutters inspecting it. Her fingers tracing over the formula leading up to it. “I think since this is the last building we will leave it. It should only over power the wards not break them or leave a weak spot.” She hazards. “I’m always glad to refine work but I think given out time frame it will be unnecessary.”

“Aren’t they not redoing this when its done?” Zorian asks already restarting with blazing the rest of it into the stone. “I feel like how rushed this was will come back to bite us in the end.”

She laughs looking at him with a mirthful expression. “I can see why Xvim enjoys you as a student. Much the perfectionist.”

“Oh?” Zorian mumbles out focused on his work. “Does he talk about me?”

“Not in so much.” She admits easily. “But he did allow you to go off on your own. After only a few months under his tutelage.” She nudges his side, making the ladder rock slightly.

He cuts the magic immediately and waits for it to stop moving giving her a glare. “Theres that attitude too. It’s like viewing Xvim in his school years.” She jokes while lowering her self to the ground again. “Think nothing of it. I will get back to my work now.” She waves over her shoulder good naturedly.

Zorian rolls his eyes before settling in to his work as well.

-

Before long, the weekend has arrived. Zorian has been dreading this the whole week. No one in his family had the guts to talk to him about last week. Kiri had been keeping her distance too. Most unsure of what to say.

After talking to Xvim and Zach he actually feels confident in this dinner. He was going to make an effort.

After going to their room. That was almost entirely back to just being theirs now. He got changed into one of his better made outfits. Placing his earrings in and brushing out his hair into a semblance of something nice. He found Zach playing with illusionary butterflies with Kirielle. Kirielle holding a single glowing orb in her own hands.

“Oh wow.” He starts. “Did you make that Kiri?” He walks up to her and Zach.

“Not exactly.” Zach answers. “I made it but shes maintaining it.” He makes the butterflies dance around the orb.” Looking up at Zorian he smiles widely. “You look nice. I’m digging the earrings.” He abandons the butterflies to making them dance around Kirielle instead of the orb.

Sliding up to Zorian he smoothly brings a hand up to play with the dangling earring. “I didn’t know you wore these.”

“My mother was quite dedicated to appearances. I had them done when I was three.” Zorian tells him, feeling his face burn at the gentle touch.

“Well they suit you. I might get you some new ones soon. We can get them to make it so you always have instant spell access.” Zachs eyes flicker left and right in thought. “I’m thinking maybe a griffen?”

“You aren’t decorating me in your families crest.” Zorian deadpans, nudging his head into Zachs hand, before moving past him to his sister. She was still dedicatedly maintaining the ball of light. “Ready to go?”

“Do we need too?” She asks, eyes tightening as she tries to focus on the orb.

“Well not truely.” Zorian feels the need to acknowledge the elephant. “I think we should. It wont get better unless we try.”

She looks sulky but nods.

It takes them a few more minutes before Zorian opens a gate for them into the living room. Damien is already there with Orissa and Fortov.

“Oh Orissa!” Zach chirps. Walking up to her quickly. “I was wondering. Can your bees get drunk and what happens when they do. Like what if they drink fermented fruit?” He looks at her stunned expression with a sunny friendly one.

“Well they likely would have to wait for the effects to wear off.” She finally thinks it through. “Yes they can get drunk. Its a impairment.”

“So, if they got drunk they bee-hind bars?” He smiles widely. Damien bursts into contained giggles beside her. Placing a hand on his mouth to smother them.

“Oh lord.” Orissa smiles slightly. Amused at Zach antics.

“You might say, the hive is a buzzkill?” He pushes. This once again has Damien in fits having to place a hand on Orissa’s shoulder to keep his balance.

Zorian feels the need to save the night. “I think you’ve lost your honey comb.” he indulges but then states. “Lets not about everyone before dinner.”

“Oh I don’t mind.” Orissa assures him. “Its best to stay buzz-tive!” She states with a fully serious face. Her gaze meeting Zach’s absolutely delighted expression.

Damien looses it at that point. Fully unable to keep back the laughter. He was now crouching on the ground in stitches.

Thats how their parents find them. Kiri giggling at her brother’s antics and Damien on the floor. The pun off lasted a few more rounds before they arrived. Entering through the front doors to see the scene.

His mother looks questioning to everyone but Zorian can feel her emotions were filled with relief. “What’s all this?” She asks.

“Oh just enjoying bee’s. You wouldn’t bee-lieve how Unbee-lieveable the queen bee’s humor is. I was stung silly by her skills.” Zach makes sure to over emphasis each time he puts a pun in there.

“Oh im buzz-ative that you have as good of skills. Quite the free bee this one is.” Orissa states still with the face of a seasoned noble. Like she was talking about property taxes.

During the bee off, Fortov had returned from the bathroom and had been standing awkwardly to the side. Zorian ignored his presence like he always did waiting on his parents.

“Right.” His mother slowly states. Looking over the room. Damien still unable to breath through his giggling. “Well we can all head to the dining room. I finished dinner earlier.”

Chapter Text

The first attempt into the desert was easy. Following the maps that Neolu had gathered for them, They arrived in record time to the first ruins. She was ecstatic hoping off the ship and running off to the place.

He wasn’t sure but he thought her had some battle skills. Just to be sure he turned to Zach. “Can you go with her? I’m going to find a place to park this thing so it doesn’t get damaged while were in there.”

A quick confirmation later and Zach’s affectionate hug and the boy was flying off to catch up to her.

It takes him a minute to find a good spot before placing sand stone barriers up with alteration magic. Just to keep anything he can’t anticipate from breaking it. The device took hours to make. It was covered in small intricate spell formula that he doesn’t want to redo.

Zorian was shocked by how alive the desert was at closer viewing. From his mental scans, the area was filled with small creatures. Nothing sapient but way more then he first assumed.

There was a group of small round toads in the sand about thirty feet from him. Numerous bugs that makes his skin crawl. Centipedes and Antlions.

Not just that but around the dilapidated stone structure were a smattering of small trees. Sparse branches with mini leaves all over them. The looked like feathers doing down each branch. A group of sand grouse were nestled half in the sand near its base.

In the distance there was large chalk white rocks that remind Zorian about a history lesson. His teacher teaching about how the desert was likely the sea bed millions of years ago. People went there often to find bones and artifacts lost to time.

He also remembers a news report about them finding whale bones in the father inland areas. He wasn’t sure to believe it or think it was a scientist trying to make a name for them selves with a hoax.

Shrugging off his thoughts he walks after the other two. Following their minds and the sounds of them looking around.

Neolu was already really happy looking at everything. When he entered he viewed her feet off the ground climbing up to see a carving.

Zach was taking off his jacket. The one Zorian had made to cool them. “It’s much cooler in her then I imagined it would be.” He jokes tying it around his waist by the sleeves.

“That's because stone absorbs heat.” Neolu informed him. “It actually feels like there's a natural spring regulating temperature somewhere.”

That gives Zorian pause. He opens his sense further searching for sea life. It takes a minute before he finds minds of Aquatic animals. Their senses weird while he checks to be sure. “There's a lake one hundred feet down. I don’t know how to get there but it seems rather large.” Zorian informs her.

“Oh?” She turns on her perch to stare at him. “Your able to sense that? How?:” She asks fully interested now.

“Its the minds of animals that i'm checking. Nothing too special.” he disregards walking over to Zach.

“That I just don’t believe.” She snickers, likely piecing together how little these two can grasp their own skill levels.

A back of laughter and Zach slaps Zorian on the shoulder good naturedly. “And you shouldn’t. We had to spend a few years getting him this good.”

“Through less then reputable means?” Neolu jokes and then halts at the dark expression that passes Zorians face. “Well, I would love to see what water system this place has. I bet the locals used it to live!” She redirects shooting a apologetic expression to Zach. He mouths its fine.

“Did you ever get Damien to teach you that mapping skill for underground tunnels?” Zach asks.

“No. I should ask him some time.” Zorian grumbles thinking how that will go. “I had a few other mapping spells though. I planned to go get more eventually. Turned out the Mapping association has classes and are fully willing to teach. Dissemination of maps is a top priority for them.” Zorian feels remembers the kind man who helped him in the past.

“I didn’t know.” Neolu ponders, flicking her legs to leap down to them. Her dress flowing like petals around her legs as she falls. Zach idly casts slow fall on her. Letting her float down safely. “Thank you.” She chirps appreciatively. Smoothing out her dress. The heavy fabric of her boldly patterned dress falling back into its form.

“I can find it.” She announced and got that twinkle in her eyes that Zorian associated with her trusting them with out reasonable cause. A sense that she's viewing the world father then what the naked eye can see. “It’s this way.”

They follow her through rubble filled tunnels. Zorian raising small glowing orbs to cast light of their path. Beyond the light on both sides was slowly becoming darker then night. Zorian kind of regretted not getting something that can see in the dark. Designs on the wall showing the interests of the native inhabitants.

The air was getting cooler and Zorian ended up the same as Zach. With his jacket tied at the waist. The cooling spells to good for the underground space.

The path opened up into a large open space. Their foot steps echoing more as they got closer. Sound echoing around the cave and through the stalagmites hanging from the vaulted ceiling.

The water in the middle was serene and unmoving like a mirror. Zach was quick to take the brunt of magical use and cast a large orb sending it to the roof. Bats quickly flew off in fear, swarming into the flew out of the cave through numerous tunnels.

“This is amazing!” Neolu is the first to break the silence. Rushing over to the waters edge. She points at the manmade rock formations on the sides. “This would be where they got their water from.” She points to the landing.

Spotting a beautiful stone bracelet, the citrine fallen years ago. “Oh! Its an old wedding band.” She hops over, lifting the item with delicate care. “This is going to be my souvenir. I’ll have it retouched. Who ever’s love this was deserves to be preserved.” She informs them firmly, looking doe eyed at the bracelet. “It even has something carved into the stone.”

Bounding up to them she shows them the worn engravings on the edges. “I can’t read it.” She sulks slightly.

“You could ask Professor Zenomir. He always is willing to help students and loves lost or old languages.” Zorian suggests taking only light interest in the item.

“You have an answer to everything don't you Zorian.” She muses but shakes her head. “I think I will do that. Things like this deserve to be loved.” She delicately takes out a small pouch and places the item inside.

“Lets look around at the rest of the place.” She cheers loudly. The noise echoing through the halls.

Zorian feels something awaken at that. A partially sapient mind that was now rushing taking notice of them. “I think I found out why this place is no longer inhabited.” he looks over to the lake that was now twenty feet from them. “It’s coming here.” He tells them.

Despite the slight fear on Neolu’s face, its quickly over shadowed by Zach’s manic expression. “You saying there is going to be something to fight?”

“I’m saying that all the small fish in the lake just evacuated the area and a rather intelligent mind is heading right for us.” Zorian tells him already knowing how this would end. He walks over to Neolu pointing to where they just came in. “Come on, lets get some distance before it starts. I didn’t bring any guns with me.”

“You use guns?” She asks still slightly afraid of what was to come. “Are we safe?”

“I will teleport you out if there’s any danger. Don’t worry.” Zorian tells her finally reaching a safe distance from the blast zone.

“What about Zach?” She tentatively asks. “Is he going to be okay?”

“He is the danger.” He informs her thinking in his head if the creature really gets to be a danger he will just crush its mind. It had rudimentary defense's, once again Zorian believes that Xlotic has a extensive history with mind mages. All the animals have natural defense's. It was a path he might pursue some day.

Before Neolu could ask more, the battle had started. Despite the size of the leviathan class creature, there was no noise before it broke the surface. The creature’s head is elongated and ghostly pale, with large, pupil-less eyes that seem to absorb all light around them, giving it an eerie, otherworldly stare. Its mouth is wide, filled with rows of needle-thin, translucent teeth that seem almost invisible until they catch the light. It’s dark skin blending into the water with ease. Immediately it sends large echoing rays at the closest thing. Which was Zach.

A single wave of his hand to dispel the attacks he launched into battle. Darting forward to strike with his fist. Sending concussive force with the punch. A loud shrieking noise reverberated through the hall, its waves sending a stalactite or two falling. Zorian raises the barrier to ward off any stray damage that it could do. The hexagons forming in front of him quickly. Some wavered slightly but didn’t fall.

Neolu watches in amazed horror as Zach summons a large fist from the ceiling. Stone and rock coming out like a titan striking down. The creature evades it, Slithering its huge body back into the water. It’s whip like tail striking where Zach is still in the air.

The layered aegis tanking the damage but still sending him across the field. It only lasts a second before Zach is launching ray after ray at the creature. The body of it swimming quickly to dodge. The bolts of heat cutting through the water, small plooms of miss evaporating where it impacts. Bubbles foaming at the surface as they descend down.

“Hey Zach, Any chance you can keep it mostly whole? I think I know what it is and Kael reluctantly dropped the topic before cause he couldn't find one.” Zorian calls out into the hall.

Zach’s face glances at him, The manic pink of his eyes glowing in his battle happy craze. “That sounds like a good challenge.” He calls back. Flying after the creature he was now boiling out of its lake.

“This is outstanding.” Neolu speaks from beside him. “You both seem so normal, did my past selves know about this?” She asks watching in awe as Zach forms long strings of glowing blue magic. Creating a lasso like structure before forcibly hauling the large serpent from the waters below.

“Well. I don’t know about Zach but you had a idea.” He tells her thinking of if they ever demonstrated this. There's a shriek that rattles his defenses as the creature tries in vein to use a mental attack against Zach.

The boy laughing wildly as he lands walking over to the creature. Sending a lance of blazing red heat into its head. The creature can’t even struggle. Its body still half submerged but its upper half was entangled in threads. No matter how it thrashed it still died in the end.

“Lets go.” Zorian gestures for her to walk. Taking down his shields now that the battle was done. “I need to do some more crazy things you’ll need to keep silent about.” He tells her.

“What?” Neolu looks at him bewildered. Her eyes going wide as she watches him form ectoplasm and then create simulacrums. The new Zorians immediately starting into work. “I’m.” She starts and cuts off. “I’m glad I will be safe while we do this.” She finally gets out.

Zach laughs shaking off the remnant adrenaline. “That was amazing. Not the hardest fight but ill take it.” He stretches his neck, moving his head left and right. Flexing his fingers.

“I think with the stuff we kill, we should get a warehouse to hold the bodies. Probably add some cooling charms to keep it from going bad.” Zorian informs him, looking at the massive body that he now had to deconstruct.

“For now we could drop its body on one of the mountains of Sarokian Highlands. It would keep there.” Zach offers.

“It would also be eaten by wolves.” He scowls but figures that's the best he could hope for.

Neolu was just watching from the back her eyes examining the situation with an intense gaze. “I now understand why you got a Sand wurm so quickly.” She mutters out. Gaze still focused on the creature. “You do this often?”

“Depends.” Zach smiled widely back at her. “The Taramatula sometimes give us requests, but its usually Kael or Zorian needs something for a project. About once a month at the least.” He seemed down about that. “I keep saying we could do it more often but Zorian is a buzzkill.”

“Where am I going to store the types of bodies you would fight?” Zorian grouches. “Getting rid of anything that's worth it to you would be foolish.” He rolls his eyes before stalking over to the creatures body and with a cutting shaping method he starts removing the teeth. Glasslike organic structures. He can think of so many things they could be used for.

“Zach can you pull the whole thing into the open?” Zorian calls once they had made enough progress on the available areas. Harvesting the best parts. The glowing threads pulled and the body was slowly glided onto the shore. It’s massive spines and fins now in a good spot to be collected.

To his surprise, Neolu takes out a rather large knife from her skirt side. One he hadn’t noticed her holding and starts helping him. “It’s a Adolescent. Likely what killed this civilization of made it run wasn’t this one.” She informs him idly. “The desert as you likely know used to a part of the ocean. The creature was likely a remnant of that time. Stuck detached from the ocean in the underground caves.” Neolu quietly theorizes.

Thinking over the idea, Zorian feels inclined to agree. When the oceans started to leave the region as it got higher. Moving with the tectonic plates, the mana rich depths of the caverns would be the only way for it to survive.

“This one likely hasn’t fought a mage for its whole life. It’s parents would probably have done more damage.” She tells him. Zach’s aggrieved noise was overlooked as Zorian thinks about that as well.

“So that might be why its mind protections are so beginner. They wouldn’t have fought mages and the skill is out of practice.” He wonders out loud, cutting the meat from the bones with practiced ease.

“Yes likely.” Neolu agrees.

That was the in he needed. “Hey Neolu, is mind magic common in Xlotic?” He casually asks but is actually hoping for a positive result.

There's a tense silence while he feels her weight the options. Waiting her out seemed like a safe bet so he kept his silence and eventually she answered. “Yes, we have a history with it. I don’t understand what someone of your skill would want from us.”

“You can never get to good at a skill.” Zorian tells her. He leaves it at that and they spend the rest of the time in relative silence. The Zorians all taking apart the creature. Storing it in the expanded bag Zorian brought along. It was just incase so he’s happy that it’s seeing use today.

-

For the fourth time that week, Zorian invaded Kael’s lab with strange ingredients. He had jugs of spinal fluid and other liquids and parts of the beasts him and Zach had taken down. Neolu’s jaunt into the desert encountered many creatures that he felt were worthy of the alchemist.

Kael didn’t even look up as he walked in. Just asked. “What this time?”

“Umbrassil.” Zorian tells him without any fanfare. “Their teeth were clear like glass but tough as metals.” He states walking through the rather stacked room to place the new parts on the table. The expanded bag not taking up much space.

Kael lets go of his work to start inspecting the items. “I feel like its a new thing every week.” he jokes. “I left Kirielle with Imaya.”

“That’s good.” Zorian tells him. Seating him self on the spare stool. Leaning on one arm. “I’m thinking about elementary school.” He brings up the topic casually. “My mother has a private school ready for Kirielle.”

“Oh?” Kael hums lightly. The topic was a hot spot of issues.

“It was my primary school. I think I turned out okay, even without everything. Mediocre at worst.” Zorian tells him, trying to act like their talking about the weather.

“Kana will also need to get schooling soon.” Kael tells him, pulling out the jars and other assorted items. He carries the fins over to the drying racks. Hooking them and letting them hang.

“Cyoria has a good primary school as well.” Zorian recounts. The research he has done told him it was a good school too. “Kinda pricey but I think it wont make much difference for us now.”

“That is true.” Kael frowns crossing his arms. The white hair behind him thrown up in a pony tail, swishing around behind him. “I like the idea of her attending school with Kirielle. They get along quite well.”

“I do as well, Nochka as well.” Zorian tells him honestly. He then sighs and runs a hand through his hair. A habit he is learning from Zach. He mentally makes sure to run through it again to sort it out. “God I don’t know what to do.” He groans.

“I don’t either.” Kael shrugging slightly. “Why not ask Kirielle?” He questions finally lowering his arms.

“Because what if she wants to stay here?” Zorian grouches openly. “What if she doesn’t want to stay here?” He then feels that caged feeling he gets when ever he doesn’t know how to handle something. He spent so many years having things relatively predictable that this much change is throwing him into uncomfortable situations.

“What's your biggest concern?” Kael slides back into his chair. The tired expression on his face making him look like a therapist. “My plan is to send Kana to a school near here. That or get her private lessons.”

“That's a good plan.” Zorian tells him. He thinks over the other question for a second before deciding he knows the answer. “I don’t want it to go back to how it was before.” He says blandly making a discontent face.

“Hmm.”

“What?”

Kael eyes him before smiling. “I think your concerns are unfounded.”

“Okay, why?” Zorian narrows his eyes in offense. “I think I have real concerns here.”

“No no, I think you do. I just don’t see the issues restarting. Your brothers and you are now more aware of the on goings. You also are not far from her. Just visit once a week. She is very quick to throw people under the buss.” He tells him easily. “I would rather Kana attended school with her but its what is best for Kirielle.”

“I still have to ask her.” Zorian points out moodily.

Kael changes the topic. Knowing full well they could run this in circles for hours. “Any thoughts on purchasing a house? I imagine you and Zach are looking to see about it before the prices return.”

Rolling his eyes again, Zorian groans again. “Probably? Zach has no interest in living in the mansion and honestly neither do I. I was actually thinking of just expanding the workshop to have a living area. Zach isn’t really a homebody and neither am I.” He admits to casually breaking the law. “Cyoria of all places has the ability to uphold the levels of dimensional magic I want to accomplish. I’ll probably still make a very small gate into the heart of the hole.”

“That isn’t a terrible idea.” Kael picks up his work again. Slicing thing layers out of a root. “I think you should know the merit of work and home balance. Many studies have been done on the subject. Something about keeping them in separate places for mental stability.” He glances at Zorian with an amused energy. “Just a few people whos whole lives were dedicated to the practice. What do they know.”

“Your snark is only slightly appreciated.” Zorian bites out. “I’ll talk to Zach about it.”

Zorian wants less heavy topics so he leans over Kael to see his current stuff “What are you working on?”

“Improved local anesthetics.” Kael states giving a ‘Want me to explain?’ Expression.

“Ah. Far out of my realm of understanding.” Zorian comments slightly impressed with the notes he sees currently. “Anything you want for it?”

“Actually, maybe.” Kael swings his legs around before opening the drawer. He pulls out a stack of papers and then opens the false bottom on the drawer. Zorian see’s all the journals hidden there. Pulling out one in particular, Kael flips through it quickly. “My other selves documented a root in Blantyre.” Kael smiles delicately at him. Calm serenity of someone who knows he will probably get what he wants. “It’s in an area surrounded by Rainbow newts. Quite deadly. My past self only collected it after Zach went on a jaunt through the region.” He jokes easily.

“And you want me to go collect them?” Zorian asks already certain of the answer.

“If you would be a gem.” he gets in response. Kael does add on. “I also know the bones of the rainbow salamander are a good binding agent.” he offers it in hopes it evens out the request.

“I’ll need to get ahold of the Silent Doorway Adepts.” He begrudgingly feels himself already agreeing. “Fine. I owe them anyway.”

-

Deciding it would take a few visits to get everything squared away Zorian left Zach behind. He headed to the web with his gifts prepared. A box of crystalized mana, the book on over sea’s Bakora gate codes, and the refined ritual.

Getting closer to the settlement, he sent out a few telepathic nudges, waiting near the entrance for the Aranea to approach him in a safe area.

Feeling a light probe he quickly offers a link. At this point in his skills it is not dissimilar to holding out a hand to shake. He feels shock and interest from the Aranea come to greet him. He feels them do a small probe, testing his skills. With a familiar calm, he does what he did before. Not fighting but immediately putting forth a memory of himself dying. Making sure to let them see the visceral feeling of being bit in half by a wurm.

“I see, it’s unusual to see a human with such good telepathic skills.” The Aranea, he now knows is Refuge in Void, telepathically tells him. “May I ask what you are here for human?” She warily asks.

“I’m here to repay a debt.” He informs her, sending mental images of their interactions in past resets. “You may not remember but you were extremely helpful to me.”

“I do not have memory of these.” She states hesitantly. Getting twitchy the same way she did in his past.

“No I imagine not.” He lets it go. “I have Bakora gate codes for you, ones that reach across the seas.”

Her shock was immediate and she quickly starts sending out links to her fellow Aranea. “What do you want for this? I can’t assume this is only in good faith.” She tests the waters.

“Actually it is. I have some requests to go with you to the continents but I will just hand them over regardless.” He mentally shrugs at her.

“You can’t expect me to accept that as the truth.” She states again. Zorian can feel a few more Aranea heading their way.

Thinking of a good way to diffuse the situation he greets the incoming Aranea warmly. “Hello.” He sends the formal way of greeting Glittering River of Stars. Sending the Aranean name system to her.

They all freeze in spot and tentatively River of Stars asks him. “You know me well.”

“Yes, I will tell you what I told Refuge in Void.” He makes sure to add the formal name system to her name. “I am going to hand you this regardless. I would like to ask for a favor but, I owe you more then you know.”

“I see.” She hesitates before stepping forward. The alarmed alerts sent from the guards told this was not planned. Zorian now felt confident. “May I see what you brought?”

Got them. “Sure.” He tells her, pulling out the large crate of Crystalized mana and the books he had set aside. He lays them on the ground before her and steps back.

There's a few seconds where she looks over the items. Quite thoroughly. He can tell she is already sending one of the codes to the Aranea below to test out. “I see that you have omitted any gates on the current continent. Is there a reason?” She asks him now with more trust then before.

“I can just teleport or travel across the continent. I never had a need to gather them here.” He tells adding a second later. “I also made friends with quite a few other webs and don’t want to be the cause of anything that might cause a war between the groups. It’s not my interest to see my friends fight.”

“Commendable. I appreciate that mentality.” River of Stars tells him. “You caught us on a busy week. Can we look over what you have given us and then come back?” She tentatively asks. Likely aware that he was giving more then they could ask for.

“Sure, I was hoping that you could help me arrive in blantyre in five days, does that work for your web? I’ll bring my own crystalized mana.” He tells her. “I will also bring a powerful mage with me. We can help your colony get a footing in the area. He enjoys fighting beasts and wont mind clearing a zone for you. I will request any kills he and I get would get first dibs on its useable parts.”

She seems shocked by this and then tentatively asks. “Could we also request a similar idea for the other gates?”

“Yes, I have less of a reason to use the Bakura gates to get to Koth but it is dangerous and I can understand the want.” He amiably tells her. Knowing the assurance of a Ikosian mage would let them settle faster and with less issues.

“Do you have a faster way?” She asks him fishing for information.

Humoring her slightly he explains. “They have set up a permanent gate between Koth and Cyoria rather recently. It’s human only but I find going through legal channels to be troublesome.”

“I see.” She mentally goes through some ideas before finally asking. “Was there anything you wanted help with today?” River of Stars attempts to not show her excitement but Zorian can see her body language.

“No i’m good, I will see you in five days.” He brushes off her platitudes and then remembers. “My friend isn’t open. Please be kind with him.” He informs her before giving a small human wave and teleporting away.

-

Zach was psyched to so some dungeon delving. Fully onboard the moment Zorian asked him. He was entirely ready to fight unknown monsters in both Blantyre and Koth. It’s in that week while they wait that Zorian realizes something dire that he forgot.

It’s been a few months and he was now genuinely hoping any of them were alive. For the first time since the time loops ended he felt guilt. At the end of the month they were already in dire straights. The frog having taken over their home. If they were wise they would have kep distance.

He once again goes off on his own. Quickly arriving at the cavern.

There was less Aranean minds then he thinks he felt last time. There’s no concrete answer because last time his skills weren’t good enough. Quickly establishing contact with the few Aranea that extremely guardedly came to him.

After coming to a similar agreement as last time. Zorian makes quick work of the frog. Sending a incineration ray at it. He felt the conflicted emotions of the web at his actions. Last time he had this whole plan but now it was just a matter of a large chunk of his mana reserves. The frog thing was still relatively in one piece as well. He could study it.

“So I was hoping to harvest a few items before I leave. Then you can live in peace.” He gets the hesitant and utterly docile response. It was unanimous agreement from all the web. They had just watched them end a creature that had been plaguing them for months. Nearly driving them to extinction.

Zorian made sure to only take one sample of each item Kael requested. He wasn’t actually here for the resources. It just would be strange if he didn’t make an effort some how to look like he had an ulterior motive. This was mostly to dull his guilt. He muses to him self that the frog was no longer as scary as when he first fought it. Maybe his jaunt with princess gave him a skewed idea of danger ratings.

They were really going too need that warehouse soon he thinks begrudgingly. Perhaps he should knock off two things at once. A house with a large room he can make a warehouse. Something to think on he figures.

Chapter Text

It was nearly a three months after everything was over. The winter season settling into the corners of houses. Zorian and Zach were forced to contend with winterizing the workshop, his family home, Imaya’s and Kael's laboratory.

Zorian was finally finished making sure the front windows were sealed properly when Daimen walked through the front doors. Stopping short when he witnessed his brother covered in dust and holding a caulking gun. He glances over Zorian's utterly disaster hair, small parts of plaster hidden amongst the curls and then to the overalls that made him understandably confused.

“What?”

He got out, still confused by the attire. Zorian may not wear extremely expensive clothes but he doesn’t remember a day his younger brother looked this casual. Almost peasant like. Even in battle he looked very put together.

Zorian finishes laying the lines at the windows edges before glaring up at his brother. He makes no move to stand from his kneeling spot. “What, to you too.” he bites out. “You’re the one letting in the cold air.”

“What are you wearing?” Damien gets out still standing in the door way.

“None of your business.” Zorian snipes. ”Could you enter or leave. I’m trying to keep cold out here not give it an open invitation.” He points the gun between Damien and the door. Not really making eye contact. He kept his eyes on the small blob at the end. A slight concern he would need to catch it. No sense ruining the floor boards.

Huffing like he's been wronged, Damien steps further inside and shuts the door. Glancing around the still empty store front. There was the beginnings of something happening. Stacks of boxes to one side and building equipment off to the other. Nothing telling but more then last time Damien saw the place.

“Are you making a store?” He asks making an assumption about what was happening.

Making a greatly put upon sigh, Zorian goes back to his work. Sealing the windows. He had cut out the old poorly working seal before starting. “Yes. I’m starting a fashion line.” He deadpans.

Taking it for a joke, Damien laughs till he spots the eye roll his brother was now giving his work. “Wait, your serious?” He questions quickly calming down. “Why?”

“I made Kirielle a skirt that will never show her undergarments. It will swish and sway like its meant to but when it detects peoples eyes, it will move to cover the spot. It took a bit of work but the skirt still looks nice.” He explains sticking his tongue out to make sure he finishes the edge right. “Kopriva found out, then others found out. They demanded I make their skirts do the same. Neolu also told me to set up a place to sell the product. So now its a whole thing.”

“I’m sorry. You what?” Damien feels at a loss. He had an objective coming here today and this wasn’t it. “So you’re just making a shop? Did you already get the permits?”

“I’ve already applied for a meeting to address them.” Zorian states, standing up. He looks over his work and then magics the gun to its proper spot. “Don’t worry your head about it. Kopriva is making sure I do everything legally. Her family has experience with front businesses and how to make people not complain. Since this is fully legal it should be easy.” He waves his hand like this was an average conversation.

Damien stands there a little shell shocked at his brothers ease of behavior. He watches Zorian walk over to a stack of film like papers. Pulling them up while a spray gun floats its way behind him with a bone knife. Blunt edged bone knife. Zorian magics the spray bottle to wet the window before holding up the film. Using the bone knife to apply the film to the window.

It’s a false stain glass design that makes multicolored light reflect through the room. Damien watches him do this feeling unsure if he should help or just ask what he came here for. He’s beaten to the punch when Zorian asks first.

“What do you need anyway? You don’t visit for casual reasons. So you must have something you need.” He raises an eye brow while he's working. Acting as if he were facing Damien.

Now that he’s been asked, Damien is debating if he should ask anymore. The irritation he feels rolling of Zorian tell him he can’t make this worse though. “Why don’t you look at me anymore?”

“What?” Zorian barks out, stumbling over the film application for a second. He restarts easily and asks. “The hell made you ask that?”

“You don’t look at me anymore. I’ve noticed it since we picked up our parents.” Damien accuses. “What did I do that was so bad? I don’t know how to make up for my past iterations if you don't tell me.”

Zorian shifts on spot not stopping in his work. He keeps silent doing what Damien just complained about. Not looking over at his brother.

“What was so bad that you wont even talk to me?” Damien presses, getting closer to his brother now.

Zorian ignores his question and barrels on with his own plans. “Since your here, I’m going to make you help me put these display racks together.” He points back with the bone knife hand at the pile of boxes. “I’m not aloud making simulacrums till we are confident no one is watching us so I was waiting for Zach.” He continues his work again. Forcing the water bubbles from the film to adhere it properly.

“Are you really not going to tell me?” Damien presses feeling the dread creep in. “I’m sorry okay? I don’t know what it is but I’m sorry.” He slightly begs. His hands waving around to let out his excess energy.

“You didn’t do anything wrong.” Zorian cracks but breaths in and ignores him again. They stand in silence for the duration of Zorian finishing the last three front windows. Damien getting more and more antsy as he watched.

Finally cracking, Zorian whirls around. Using magic to send all his stuff back to their spots. “You really didn’t do anything. In fact, you were likely one of the most helpful everything considered. Right up there with Xvim and Alanic.” He bites out and then breaks eye contact to storm past his brother to his other objectives. Pulling out planks of wood and nails.

“So?” Damien tries to understand. “Why wont you look at me then. Am I so unforgivable?”

Zorian drops the items he was holding. The nails and wood falling to the ground in a clatter. Damien feels bad but he doesn’t make a move to console Zorian. He needs to know.

“Do you really hold a grudge still? Its been what 20 years now?” He tries to jolt the answer out of his brother. Poking at things to get a response.

“I forgave you years ago.” Zorian finally tells him. “I just hate seeing your pale lifeless body every time I look at you.”

That forces Damien to a full stop. His eyes going wide as that sinks in.

Now that the words were out, Zorian continues. “You gave your life force for me to escape and I can’t unsee you’re body bleeding out on the ground. I owe you a life debt and you don't even remember it.” he cracks up. Feeling his shoulders sting and his back grow hot.

“I did that?” Damien now is quiet. He speaks delicately.

“Yes.” Zorian finally turns to look at his brother. “To keep the way out open you bled your self dry and gave up your life for me to escape and before you say but you’re here now. That was still you. All your past iterations were their own person. He, that Damien, could have escaped and still been alive today, but instead he killed himself to let me live and I have no idea how to reconcile my view of you with that act.” He blunders through his explanation seeing the dawning horror on Damien's face.

Of all the things to come out in this conversation. Damien never imagined this was it. Very weakly he tries to think of what his other self was thinking. What would lead himself to put everything on the line for his brother. That was it though, wasn’t it. “You’re my baby brother.” He tells him very quietly.

“I’m technically older then you now.” Zorian tells him but looks less intense after that.

Despite the situation, the matter of fact way Zorian speaks makes Damien bark out a pained laugh. His throat feeling swelled up and the nerves in his hands tingling with the want to do something. “Can you tell me more about it? If you want to. I know its my past selves death but I wont force you.” Damien wants to know. What lead to that outcome.

Zorian is no longer able to keep eye contact as he looks guilty. The people he spent that year with dying really broke his heart. The six months in the resets and then six months in the black room left a impression on his soul. “I’m sorry.” He gets out. Leaning down to pick up the stuff he dropped. “I think eventually I'll tell you but not now. It’s-” He breaks off the words struggling to get out how painful this memory was.

“I don’t think I understand at all but that's okay.” Damien tells him. “You wanted help with the uhh.” He gestures to the boxes. “Those things?” He wasn’t really paying attention earlier and now his brain felt scattered.

“Display racks.” Zorain helpfully tells him. Still feeling utterly horrible but like always. He will just move on again. Just keep moving on from the past.

“Yeah. Those.” He shifts before walking over to grab planks from the boxes too. “We could finish a lot faster with alteration magic.” He tries to find a new topic.

“I’m heading to Blantyre later tonight. It’s better not to waste mana on building when we will need it for so many other things.” Zorian casually informs him. “You can if you want to be finished sooner.” He raises an eye brow at the other making eye contact intentionally.

“Actually. I think I also have a bunch of really good reasons to not use mana right now.” Damien jokes. “We will just have to spend more time together building these.” He gives a small smile to the other hefting the planks over to where Zorian was now walking too.

“I guess so.” Zorian lets the intentional prolonging of Damien's presence go.

-

After getting Kirielle and Kana setup at Rea’s for the two weeks they planned to be gone. Zorian heavily debating going against the no simulacrums order to leave one with her. Rea ushered him and Kael out the door responding to their worries with amused laughter.

Zorian teleported him and Kael to the web of the silent doorway adepts. Zach was already hanging out with his preferred Aranea. Frozen Thoughts Spanning Across Bottomless Chasms. Frozen thoughts for short. They were seated on the rock outside the nest chatting verbally.

The sight was not foreign to Zorian but Kael gave it a once over. Seeing Zach be the one to casually chat with a giant spider was novel for once. Zach perking up when they got closer. “Oh you're here! Frozen Thoughts Spanning Across Bottomless Chasms meet Kael! She is okay with just Frozen Thoughts. He’s the Alchemist I was mentioning.” He introduces. Hoping off the rock to walk over to Zorian.

“Oh. Greetings.” She tells Kael verbally. Her blank eyes moving to his direction. “I wouldn’t mind talking with you on another day too.” Frozen thoughts calmly tells him.

Feeling the need to explain, Zorian tells Kael. “She is one of the few Aranea that has always liked Zach more then me. She likes to learn about people who don't use mind magic.”

“Ah, I see.” Kael bemusedly says. “I admit to having interest in your society as well. Maybe on a less stressful day we can exchange information?” He offers the spider freely.

“That would be nice.” Frozen Thoughts pauses for a second before telling them. “They think they are nearly done. Shall we head inside?” She waits for their acceptance before leading them down winding paths and into the heart where the gate is. The hustle and bustle of movement was new to Zach and Zorian as well. They had only seen this a few times in the final few resets.

“Are you going across?” Zorian asks her while they are lead to the staging area of this endeavor. The spiders skittering past them with webbed items.

“No, I will be remaining here. I have no wish to visit other continents. This one suits my tastes quite well.” She tells him. Zach nodding along like he already asked her this stuff. “I think that we may postpone the venture to Koth for now. It will not take long but Blantyre will be enough for us to branch out further then we ever imagined.”

“Oh? So I didn’t need to give those gate codes?” Zorian asks with a bit of mirth.

He feels the outraged emotions of nearby Aranea but Frozen Thoughts just mimics laughter and answers. “I don’t think there is much else you could ask of us.”

“I could think of some stuff.” Zorian tells her caring on the macabre joke.

“You think too much like a Aranea sometimes.” She tells him. Sending him memories of random negotiations that she remembers. Zorian feels a small amount of offense but realizes she probably is right.

“His formative years were spent hanging out with them.” Zach jokes. “I’m just glad he only has two pretty brown eyes not eight.” he jokes bumping his hip on Zorian's good naturedly.

Kael was ignoring the lot of them, watching the ritual of Aranea surrounding the gate. His gaze taking in their ritual with interest. The magic being poured in at a rapid pace. The gate finally activating.

“That only took two notches of the sun. Shorter then I expected.” River of Stars contacts Zorian through his mind.

Without turning to look in her direction he nods. “Yes. I assume the new method works well?”

“You ask knowing that it did.” She snarks, her body moving to stand next to him. “You are a strange human.”

“I’ve been told.” Zorian rolls his eyes. Refocusing on the others.

Zach and Kael were still engaging Frozen Thoughts in conversation. Theorizing about the new continent together while the gate fully opens.

“Can I ask that we send you and your friend through first?” River of Stars proposes. “I will be joining you but I want to keep the possible dangers to a minimum.” She tells him shifting slightly, giving Zorian the impression that she was anxious.

“Just Zach I assume?” Zorian confirms easily. “That’s fine. I’ll leave Kael with Frozen Thoughts.”

-

The bags Zorian brought with him were already getting full. He brought extra because of how long they planned to be away. Ones that were charged by their own crystalized mana storage. Powering them to be much bigger then the less mana rich area should allow.

It had been a week and Zach showed no sign of stopping. The Aranea had been sending him to anything that seemed dangerous since they arrived. He had fought many different things in that time sectioning a rather large area of the underground for the Aranea. True to their word, the bodies of the creatures were being stored for long term use in a rather large hollowed out room.

In the first day, Zorian had set up the room. Warding it to keep things cool within. The Aranea were excited as well. Their carnivorous diets would benefit from the preservation method.

River of Stars even started to appreciate Zachs presence. Getting over that he was a flickermind slowly. Zorian figured it was better then nothing. No one over came racism in a week. The Aranea still actively disliked when he pointed out that fact. Apparently being told their being racist was too much.

Kael was having a fine time waltzing through the woods. He showed absolutely no fear as he looked around. Unlike time loop Kael this one never learned much offensive magic.

“Why should I be scared?” The white haired man coyly asks. Eyes falling to give him a smug smile. “I have a body guard.”

“You really just trust the books that much?” Zorian asks ducking under a branch as he wrinkles his nose at the morning dew that hits his face.

“Yes.” Kael states firmly. “I also trust you implicitly. You are mentioned a lot.” He laughs a little thinking of something Zorian can’t fully parse. Despite his range with mind magic, Kael always felt just a bit unreadable to him.

“I don't get you.” He complains lightly watching as the other man crouches down and with precision and a bit of magic uproots a standard looking plant. He goes about the process with a few more before trying a thread around their stems and placing them in the bag at his hip.

Kael turns to look at him. “I noticed that. A Lot of the notes about you were about how to interact with you.” He states with a standard air of amusement. “It’s interesting how you never read my journals. I had ongoing bets with my self.”

“What seriously?” Zorian feels startled.

Humming Kael stands with graceful movements. “Version twenty three had a running bet that your brother was an alcoholic.” He jokes before continuing. “Version thirty one bet on your romantic life. Apparently you had made friends with your classmates in that reset. Akoja?” Kael asks him eye brow raised.

“Oh my god.” Zorian groans. “I don't even know how that one came about!” He complains thinking of his miscreant simulacrums. “Simulacrums are so annoying with that stuff. They just do things cause they know I’ll be stuck with the consequences not them.”

Kael snorts in understanding. “I’ve heard people have similar issues with the constructs. Was the date even good?” He asks carrying on walking to the north. Following a compass to the coordinates that his past self noted down.

“It was okay.” Zorian admits feeling his aggravation settle slightly. “I can see the original me eventually finding that nice. Maybe in another life I guess.” He feels horrible admitting this.

“I see.” Kael muses not pressing him hard. “I don’t really enjoy Akoja's personality but to each their own.”

The conversation relaxed after that. The two of them walking through the forest till they come across a field of Rainbow newts. “Hey Zorian.” Kael whispers to him, suddenly sounding more annoyed with the situation.

“Yeah?”

“We can’t kill them anymore.”

Looking over at his hiking partner. He feels uneasy. “What does that mean?” He asks slowly and quietly.

“It means their feces is what the flower is growing from. If I ever want more then I should not ruin the supply of it.” Kael states eyes narrowed at the field of Rainbow Newts that were nearly four meters in length.

“What do you want me to do about this?” Zorian asks feeling like he wont enjoy the answer.

“Can you just, I don’t know. Mentally make them ignore us?” Is the response that he was dreading.

“Not really. Their minds are far different from ours. I can try to just put them all to sleep.” Zorian tells him before starting on just that. Kael not responding as he waited for the outcome to show.

Zorian takes his silence as a agreement and tentatively tests his theory. Invading the mind of a far newt. He takes it slow, checking constantly for any sign that he was being noticed. They didn’t have anything noticeable so he put the newt female slowly to rest.

He hears a small ooo noise from Kael beside him. Picking up speed as he makes the effort to put them all to sleep. One after another the newts laid down and went unconscious.

Red hair enters his periphery as Kael leans over to whisper. “Well that was quite fast. I think I should be scared but i'm just impressed.” he stands up leaving Zorian in his spot to start harvesting. Full confidence in his friends skills.

After collecting a good amount, Zorian makes sure to wake them up before they sneak off. No sense letting them get caught unaware and die.

The rest of the adventure into Blantyre was much the same. Collection and then dissection at the end of the day. Zach’s body count getting higher. He looked much more relaxed, like he had gotten to win at his favorite sports game.

Loosely throwing his arms around the original Zorian's shoulders. Using a unnecessary amount of magic to float along behind him. Doing his best imitation of a human cape Zach told him about all the magic abilities the monsters used.

“One even threw incineration rays at me.” He hums happily letting him self float along from table to table. Zorian spending most of his time priming and stretching the hides of the creatures. “It was the best fight i’ve gotten in a while, but like all things I won in the end.” He smiles into Zorians shoulder before moving his head to rest his chin on it instead.

“That's good. You were getting antsy.” Zorian tells him distractedly. Using his rather great shaping skills to make bone knives push out the leather. The strings tightening as the leather loosens, pushing the moisture out slowly. He had about five stations all moving separately of them selves. “So I’m guessing when they want to try their hand at a Koth settlement you would be willing to help again?” He asks mindlessly.

“Oh definitely.” Zach chirps. Then he asks in curiosity. “How was your day? Find any good plants?”

“Kinda. Kael found a few he wanted to use to prefect a paralysis potion. I think it could be helpful in combat.” Zorian admits giving a little of his mental faculties over to the topic. His simulacrums that were scattered through out the room taking the mental weight he was dropping for it. None of them blamed him since it was to focus on Zach.

With a pinched look, Zach asks him. “Are you expecting to get into fights again? I thought we were retired basically.” He jokes but keeps that serious expression.

“Well there's Quatach-Ichl.” he tells Zach idly. “And the dragon mages that I’m still not sure aren’t going to attack us again. If only to ensure nothing can stand up to them.” Zorian thinks of Silverlake and some of the other issues that could arise from their circumstances.

The tightening around his shoulders and Zach lowering him self to the ground was a sign that something was the matter. “Wait. He isn’t dead?”

Right. Zorian forgot to tell him. “No the Soulseizer Chrysanthemum didn’t actually win. He fled to his phylactery.” He tells him upfront. No sense informing him slowly.

“That is-” Zach stops talking still holding Zorian tightly. They were now stood in the general foot path of the makeshift lab. Other Zorian's needing to take other routes as this went on. They were giving him mental pats on the back for needing to be the one to manage this. The bastards weren’t even willing to try helping.

Waiting calmly, Zorian felt he had already come to terms with a millennia old litch likely coming after them. He had been getting prepared for the idea.

“He doesn’t have the crown now?” Zach confirms hesitantly. Like his whole defense hinged on that fact alone.

“No, You likely have the same mana levels as him now.” Zorian confirms the train of thought.

There was a round of silence before Zach states in a more relaxed manner. “So we would win.” His arms were relaxing from their hold and he was letting go now.

Zorian turns the moment Zach takes a step back to give him a bewildered expression. “What makes you say that?” He can’t follow Zach's thought process with his mind tied up the way it is.

“Well, you beat him in mind magic. I am on par with him with combat magic. We saw that his spells did nothing to that utterly ridiculous construct of yours and i'm willing to bet Alanic has a few spells that should do severe soul damage, maybe even able to stop him from being able to return.”

Zach has a serious expression on his face. It was softening as he felt better about the situation. “We also have more then a single month to prepare our selves now. I like to think that more time would mean we could get more concrete defenses.”

Not finding much wrong with that assessment, Zorian gives a huh noise. “You are entirely correct. I should also mention. He will likely not care about us much. He told me that since we aren’t politically inclined we aren’t really an issue to him.” Thinking about the conversation on the top of the building. “He also seems like the type to see it as a fair fight lost.”

In the conversation Kael had been eavesdropping on them. The Zorian's in the room all felt his mixed and extremely complicated emotions. The spike of shock when Zach said they could beat him.

Zorian leaves him to his thoughts, more focused on Zach at the moment. “I think we still have the potential wars to think of. Jornak was correct about some things.” Zorian feels no happiness in admitting it. “Even if we don’t do anything the continent is only a few decades out from war. Less depending on if things go sideways.”

“We will figure it out when that comes.” Zach reassures him.

Doing his best to keep his face clear of his own thoughts, Zorian agrees. Zach looks like he doesn’t trust that but pats him firmly anyway.

-

Walking up the street away the Cyoria Teleport beacon, Zorian feels his senses get back in tune with the remaining relays and Aranea web. It feels like a welcoming home. Getting multiple memories passed over to him. The cutest in the memory’s was Kirielle and Novelty feeding ducks at the duck park. Novelty asked about written works hoping to find something to read.

He watches the memory a bit more focused then he was on that one then the others.

Kirielle showing Novelty how to throw the bread and the ducks scattering each time the spider gets close to do it. Kirielle's amused laughter ringing out through the spied memory.

Zorian is just in the middle of forging the memory into something stronger. Something he can keep for a long period of time when something else catches his attention.

A string of semi related memories from the last month and more. Aranea he knew working together to give him the best idea of what they were seeing. A compilation of memories. All of them following two generic looking brown haired men. Nothing stand out about them aside from their proximity to Zorian and Zach for the memories. A few memories of them near their groups other members as well. Zorian figures that the Aranea don’t keep the same focus on them so that explains the lesser amount.

The Aranea’s memories inform him about how since leaving the two had picked up their searches. Entering and looking around his shop and examining his workshops door. They made no attempt to enter but looked like they were diagnosing stuff.

He watched over the rest of the memories, seeing them return to an inn near Zorian's house. They entered a room that had ten more people. Quick to check them out, Zorian realized he recognized enough of them.

These were the Royal guards he spotted taking shifts at the royal vaults. After spending so many months breaking into the place, certain guards stuck out to him more then others.

He was about to inform Zach about the issue when a rather insistent probe hit him. An Aranea was sending him a memory. Making sure to thank her he started looking over it.

“Zach. I think the prince is sitting in our shop.” He turns to Zach hoping the level of concern he was feeling was playing over his face.

“Which one?” Zach asks getting concerned as well.

“That’s the thing. I don’t know.” Zorian complains, despite all the spying. The two brown haired guys never dropped their disguises. “He has a friend with him. I would have assumed one was a guard but they don’t behave like that. The friend is only the faintest amount differential to him.”

“Well, that narrows it down.” Zach muses thinking over his interactions with the royals. The few interactions he remembers keeps the list of suspects down to two. Stephan or Ferdinand. “I’m quite hoping it is Stephan. He is more pleasant.” He tells Zorian.

They start down the path to the shop. Kael wandering after then in curiosity. “You two are just going to confront him?” He gives them the most perplexed expression.

“We have to put everything away. It’s much better to get this over with.” Zach tells him, getting annoyed with how much he have to do before getting lunch today. “Ah, I was hoping we could head to this tavern I know.” He grouses feeling more ready to fight this out if it comes to that. That would be a good outlet.

Despite wanting to agree with Zach, Zorian shakes his head. “He came without his guard. It’s likely he wants to talk.” He looks back at Kael and asks. “You planning to come with us?”

“No not at all.” Kael smiles warmly at him. “I will be going straight to my own laboratory and ignoring the lot of you. Please let me know how it goes.”

“I see.” Zorian muses with no inflection. “Have your fun.”

They get to the fork in the road. One leading up the hill and one leading down. Kael waves warmly to them and wishes them luck before taking the route down. Unlike Zorian and Zach, his lab was in the warehouse district. Not being willing to use illegal magics to enlarge the space. He opted for a real warehouse.

Their foot steps on stone street below them. They both were mentally preparing for this encounter. Of all their contingencies and protections. They can’t figure out where they went wrong. How did they get found out? How hard would it be to fix this again.

They had no good ideas. Killing the prince would lead to other issues. Mind wiping him shouldn’t work. There is no way that would go well. Running would put them on the run for the rest of their lives and put everything they care about in danger.

The light was when they made it to the shop. The false stain glass letting them see the prince and his friend seated on the front counter. The changing rooms and lounge area were still unfinished so it was the only good spot.

“Here goes nothing.” Zach announces before entering the room like he owns it. He does but still. It was with confidence and a self assuredness that Zorian used to feel annoyed by. “Unfortunately we don’t open for a few more weeks. So sorry valued customers.” He jokes but Zorian can tell that he's very on edge.

Walking in behind him, Zorian closes the door. Locking it with a click. “I have things to put away. What ever you would like will need to wait.” Zorian glares at the two. The prince was swinging his legs in exhilaration as he looked at him friend. Getting some kind of confirmation from the mans look.

“That’s okay. I’m willing to wait as long as it takes.” He informs non formally. Speaking in a way that makes Zorian wonder if he got it wrong. “Can I see your workshop? The wards on it are quite amazing. Your work I assume? Zorian Kazinski.” The prince name drops, making both Zach and Zorian get more on edge.

“Yes, Your highness. Don’t touch anything. Wouldn’t want you trapped with a gray hunter with no way out.” He snarks eyes narrowed. Fully dropping any pretense that they were average. The thoughts being basically blasted at him by this individual were telling him everything he needed to know. They were fully caught.

“Oh? That sounds like a interesting pet.” The bastard leaps off the counter to walk up next to Zorian. Stopping a few steps further then he probably intended by Zach frigid glare. “Don’t worry mister Noveda. I’m here in peace.” He holds up his hands in a unarmed gesture.

“Couldn’t careless about why your here. Don’t do anything like we asked.” Zach orders dropping his jovial nature.

With an eye roll, the prince exaggeratedly steps back. “Fine.” He draws out the words but obliged as Zorian walks over to the door. Doing a series of Complicated mana movement to poke at specific spots in the correct order. The door clicking unlocked when he was done.

“That is some very fancy spell work.” The prince seems to brighten just watching.

“Yes.” Zach glares again. “Now come. I wont have the conversation here.” He gestures to the mini construction site. The piles of planks and construction equipment left lying around. There as a thin layer of construction dust on the floor.

Zorian starts placing rolls of leather, all of them with little labels on to the wracks. Putting the bones and teeth into their own spots. There was some really large beasts that had equal large ligaments that he enjoyed thinking of uses for. Medical ones like prosthetics.

The tied ligaments were placed on his desk. Zach walking the two guests over to an open zone. Using quick alteration magic to make a bench. Summoning some of the monster hide and fluffy wools. Creating four cushions quickly. The edges of them getting sealed by a monster fat based glue that Zorian had a bottle of on the desk.

“That's such a waste of that. I could have sewn it.” Zorian complains still wary of their guests.

“Yes but I’m not so good at patience and your still putting stuff away.” He gives a look as Zorian takes a massive bone out of the small bag. “You still have the second bag as well.”

Rolling his eyes, Zorian keeps at organizing. Finding that he might be needing larger wracking soon. Maybe more bins to fit more stuff. He places the rooted plants into their spot. A stasised chamber that should keep them in good condition till he processes them.

“This all must have either taken a large amount of money or a plethora of skills.” The prince eyes the interior. Landing on the many work desks with half finished projects. A work station entirely dedicated to his new fashion idea. Covered in gold threaded fabrics. “I think it might be a good mix of both.”

“Well stop thinking and just sit calmly.” Zach bites giving the man a annoyed look. He gave the other man the same look when he seemed to be glancing at things more then others.

Just finishing his sorting, Zorian finally feels the need to get it out of the way. “How did you find out about us? We did a lot of work to keep people out.” He has been waring over this since they found out.

“Oh? I guess thats why you showed us this room. A secret for a secret.” The prince mused idly.

“No.” Zorian cuts him off. Deciding now was a great time to make a display. Pressing into the mans mind with a light touch. He sees the man freeze. “I am just confident in my self.”

“I see.” He smiles widely after that. Zorian feels the mans intentions grow more solidified at that. Like Zorian had proved it was worth what ever he had planned. “Then I will be honest.” The mans friend startles looking over at his prince quickly. “My friend can view the energies of magic. After rumors of the angel being spotted reached us. We started looking around town. There should be only one person who has residue of both Primordial energy and Divine energy.”

He leans forward on the bench, lacing his fingers and looking at both of them before stopping on Zach. “But imagine my surprise when we find not one but two timeloopers. Both with opposite skills sets.”

Looking ready to argue, the prince cuts them off again. “Look, I know you made sure but my family descends from the Ikosian king. We have more knowledge on this then others. We’ve also had more time then you can imagine to prepare for the next person.”

“So what do you want with us?” Zorian asks, finally coming over to seat himself on the final cushion. A blanket wrapping its self around his shoulders when he does. He gives a thankful look to Zach before looking back at the man.

“Oh I want to employ you.” He cleanly states.

Theres a ringing silence before Zach snorts. “I need alcohol for this conversation. Zorian tell me you have a few extra bottles hidden in here.” He turns pleadingly ton Zach.

With a put upon sigh, Zorian levitates a crate from the corner. Shuffling the stuff on top of it to other spots. He doesn’t even move, just tells his magic how to work. Pulling the coffee mugs out of the bedroom and having everything get placed rightfully at the table.

The prince watches with that same intensity as earlier. “Yes. I’m determined now.” Accepting the mug of honey beer. His friend doing the same, taking a tentative sip.

Speaking for the first time he asks. “Is this from the Taramatula’s brew? It’s exceedingly expensive. Why would you purchase a entire crate?” He asks looking between the mug to Zorian and back.

“Family friends. My brother is marrying their heir.” Zorian informs him, gaining a look of appreciation that Zorian felt awkward receiving. “They also know about the time loops and know Zach is a alcoholic.”

“Ah I see.” The man mutters taking another drink of the mug.

Finding the conversation less interesting, The prince cuts in. “What would you want in return for working for me. On a permanent basis. I’m willing to give almost anything.” He tells them finally getting into the thick of it.

Thinking he was exaggerating. Zorian smirks at him. “Mind magic to become partiality legalized and creature rights for sapient species.”

“Done.” The prince states quickly. “And you?”

Zorian startles. Setting his mug down to look at the other man. “Wait you can't be serious. that isn't worth it.” He doesn’t feel as much doubt that the prince of their country could follow through with the deal but it was just unreasonable.

“Any deal you are willing to make is worth it to get you to work for me. I hope you understand the lengths I will go too.” The man informs him clearly amused by the reaction.

Zach mulls over the idea while Zorian stares incredulously. Giving his own requirements. “I want you to publicly support same sex relationships.”

“That is more difficult.” The prince debates the ask for a second before gesturing to the man seated next to him. "I will date him for the next two years publicly. It will show my acceptance for the idea is that acceptable?” Ignoring the eye roll his friend gives but the other man doesn’t argue the idea.

“Your willing to go that far? are you okay with this?" Zorian looks at the friend searchingly, scanning his surface thoughts as the man answers. "Yes, I have no issue with it. I fully agree with his determination." His thoughts reflecting on the benefits of being in a relationship should bring him. Namely cake and other food related benefits. Zorian feels shocked by his nonchalance.

“You seem to under estimate your values. This is the first bonded soul pair to come out of the sovereign gate. “ He barrels over the twin glares that comment gained him. “I will practically do anything to get you on board and am not stupid enough to try bartering with you both.”

The prince explains laying all the cards on the table. “You have to realize. The skills you possess are beyond a normal mage. Even with only one of you having a divine boon. You both have produced results. In fact you both show the effects of one making up for the other.”

“There is chaos in the other regions. Despite what people think. Peacetimes are soon ending. Eldmar has no major defining things. We are good at many things but not great. With that in mind. Is it so strange that I wish to hire two unaffiliated archmages that have no contracts to hold them. I wont even ask you to sign anything more then a employment contract.” He pulls out a small pamphlet and lays it between them. “I hold preference to Eldemar comes out of this new war either as strong or stronger then before.”

With the information now laid before them, it wasn’t as shocking that the man was willing to do what ever it takes. Namely that their requests didn’t truly hinder him or his goals.

Zorian flips through the pages quickly. Memorizing each page before rearranging them in his mind to go over. It only took a minute for him to determine. This contact favored them more then the prince, now known as Ferdinand. His friends name already signed on as witness. Louis Zapolya. Not a name he recognized.

“Think on it.” The prince tells him. Taking a last swig of his drink. Standing with grace as he makes his way across the room. Louis following swiftly after.

Zorian waited till they were a few blocks away before turning to Zach. The bottle they had cracked open nearly finished in his hand. There was a faint flush on the mans face from the drinking but nothing to extreme.

“What would you like to do?” Zorian asked him. From what he can tell they had leverage as well. Ferdinand had no want for them to go to other counties and support them. He likely would accept Zach and Zorian sitting the entire war out. The likely hood of the war allowing them to sit it up was small.

“I think we should milk it for all its worth.” Zach gave him a slightly feral grin. “Aren’t you tired of working around the law?” He taps the contract a few times. “This could easily get us the freedom we want.”

“It could also put us on the run if everything goes south.” Zorian agrees but feels necessary to keep the worries front and center.

Taking a the final drink of a quarter of the bottle. Zach gives a smile of appreciation to brew before looking at Zorian again. “I think. We are screwed on that front regardless. Even if we don’t join him. Do you really think the crown will just ignore us?”

“They ignore Xvim and Alanic.” Zorian points out.

“No. Xvim works for their royal academy and Alanic is a loyal priest to the state. They don’t ignore them, by their standards Xvim and Alanic are already working for them.” Zach informs Zorian with a so so hand gesture. “We can’t even run to Koth you know. It would be Blantyre or nothing and I don’t particularly want to live with the lizards.”

Sneering at the idea, Zorian feels inclined to agree. Their lacking technology would set him back a lot. Though he enjoys their company it would be a bad idea. “So were taking the deal?”

“We’re taking the deal?” Zach gives an amused smile. “Oh Zorian. My dear soulmate. You’re going to write a deal that gives us what ever we want.” He reaches out to hold Zorian's hand lacing their fingers together. “I’m only over confident because I know you will take all the spoils and leave nothing behind.”

Watching Zach’s smug and self satisfied smile he thinks it over. The employment contract was just that. A very very basic employment contract. There was no code of conduct, no real requirements and the only one they answered to would be Ferdinand. The terms of them accepting was left entirely up to them and the man had already stated.

“Fine. I’m going to start on that.” He tries to stand but is stopped by Zach's hand holding tighter. “What?”

“Lunch. I said, I want to go to that tavern. We also have to find out if Kael wants anything out of this. The guy wants two archmages with no affiliations. Imagine what he might give for two archmages and a alchemical master?” Zach smiles at him with that feral but happy look as he had before. Pulling Zorians hand lightly to make him stand closer. He looks up at him with a happy expression.

“You are unreasonably happy about this.” Zorian notes.

“Of course I am.” Zach smiles, rubbing his thumb over Zorian's knuckles. “I have everything I want in life and I’m about to get more. I also get to screw over the other royals. Ferdinand was not apart of what happened to my family but the others?” Zach's blood thirsty emotions were pouring through to meet Zorian's empathy. “I don’t have to listen to them, they can’t tell me what to do ever again if we signed this.” He brings his other hand up to wrap around Zorian's back and hugs him tightly, pushing his face into Zorian's stomach.

“I see.” Zorian muses, understanding lacing his voice. He brings up a hand to scrape down Zach’s scalp and remembers they needed food. “So, lets go get Kael.”

-

It took a week before Zach and Zorian made their way to the capital city. Kael had vehemently stated that he would only ever work for them, Zach and Zorian them, and that there was nothing that could sway him to the crowns side. Despite having no affiliations he still resented the crown.

Zorian had smudged out a contract that highly favors him and Zach. They even get to take a sabbatical every three years. Just take off for six months with no need to report back or answer attempts to contact them.

The full contract is as follows.

1. Purpose and Principles

The Employer acknowledges The Magician's pursuit of arcane mastery and personal growth as paramount. This contract shall guarantee The Magician the resources, autonomy, and mentorship necessary to thrive in their magical practice.

2. Provision of Personal Laboratory

2.1 The Magician shall be provided with a personal, private laboratory or workspace equipped to their specifications, including but not limited to:
An up to date alchemical station.
A warded space for experimentation, attuned to The Magician’s magical signature.
2.2 The laboratory shall remain under The Magician’s exclusive control. Employer representatives may only access it with explicit written permission.

3. Dedicated Instruction and Mentorship

3.1 The Employer shall arrange for The Magician to receive personalized instruction in their chosen fields of study. This instruction must include:
Bi-weekly sessions with senior magical practitioners as requested.
Access to rare grimoires, tomes, and divine artifacts.
Opportunities to attend or host magical symposiums at the Employer’s expense.
3.2 Mentorship shall be provided by individuals with advanced expertise in The Magician's areas of interest. The Magician reserves the right to request an alternate mentor if they find the current arrangement unsatisfactory.

4. Access to Resources

4.1 The Employer shall provide The Magician with the following resources at no cost:
A monthly stipend for rare ingredients and artifacts.
Unrestricted access to the Employer’s magical library and archives.
State of the art tools for spellcasting, spell formula, and enchantment.
4.2 Additional requests for unique resources shall be granted promptly, barring extraordinary circumstances.

5. Work-Life Balance and Autonomy

5.1 The Magician shall have autonomy over their working hours, provided all agreed-upon tasks are completed.
5.2 The Magician may not be compelled to perform tasks outside their specified job description or moral code.
5.3 A sabbatical of up to six months shall be granted every three years for independent magical study or recreation.

6. Intellectual Property Rights

6.1 Any spells, inventions, or discoveries made by The Magician during their tenure shall remain their sole intellectual property.
6.2 The Employer may only use such intellectual property with written consent and fair compensation to The Magician.

7. Non-Interference Clause

The Employer may not interfere with The Magician’s personal magical pursuits or research, even if unrelated to their employment.

8. Protection and Insurance

8.1 The Employer shall provide insurance covering The Magician, their laboratory, and all related equipment.
8.2 In the event of duress, curses, or attacks, the Employer shall ensure immediate and effective intervention to safeguard The Magician’s well-being.

9. Termination

9.1 The Magician may terminate this contract at any time with a 30-day notice.
9.2 Should the Employer seek to terminate the contract, they must provide:
A severance package equivalent to five years’ salary.
Immediate removal of all restrictive covenants, such as non-compete clauses.

Zorian was happy with this and actually felt that they wouldn’t loose if the prince agreed to it. This would also test to see just how far would the man go to hire them. He had showed it to Zach who just shrugs.

“Zach.” Zorian started. “This is what your angelic contract should have looked like.”

Shrugging Zach brushed off the issue. Not willing to think about it more then necessary. “See, this is why you were in charge of the contract.” Zach smiled widely and proceeded to walk away from him.

That being said, Zorian was confident in their soon to be employer. The contract wasnt the only thing that Zorian had put his time into this week. There was the awkward confrontation with his parents and Kirielle.

It was screaming and crying when he informed Kirielle that he wants her to attend school in Cirin. She rejected the idea after the months of freedom away from family expectations. His mother was slightly horrified that this was the reaction her daughter gave to coming home. Zorian had to write up a mini contract for Kirielle to dictate the terms of her stay.

She had seen him writing his work contract and after getting him to explain, demanded he help her right one for this. The contract was a lot smaller. With only three bullet points. That she could draw, learn magic, and could visit Kana and Nochka on weekends.

His parents were sat across from their daughter as she stated her reasons. His mother giving her own stipulations to the weekend visits.

“I think I'm open to that if you are willing to ensure you’re school work is done before leaving.” His mother bargained.

Kirielle wrinkled her nose before adding. “Then I want another thing to be added. If I complete all my work, I want to choose what we have for dinner on Monday and Friday.”

“Alright.” His father responded. “I think that's rather reasonable. Anything else?”

“No Fortov.” Kirielle glared at her parents.

“I’m sorry we can’t budge on that.” His father keeps a straight face. Zorian from his spot at the table feels his amusement at the entire situation. “How about we limit it to you can go to your room when ever you want if Fortov angers you.”

Kirielle seems to be thinking it over. Her little hands tapping like she's playing a piano. “That’s a given. I want something more concrete. You will stand up for me if he's mean.” She tells them with a angry glare.

“I agree to that.” His mother states. “I will reserve the right to explain to you why he’s doing what he's doing before we involve ourselves.”

This went back and forth for a few more points. Finally landing on a agreement. Both Kirielle and his parents satisfied with the outcome. Zorian could feel how utterly proud his father was at the turn of events. He could see the man specifically getting tutors for her. He had been there to note down everything and be the witness. Kirielle demanding he hang out with her after their done.

Like the little gremlin she was, getting in his face as he turned their little negotiation into legal terms. She was asking him question after question that Zorian was unsure if she would remember the answers too. Making the task take that much longer.

His parents patiently waited for him to finish, seemingly content. They had non standing plans to get dinner after. A restaurant that Koprivas family owns served good pasta. Zach took any excuse to go there on someone else's dime. “Food being free makes it taste better.” He said.

-

Arriving at the castle. Zorian suddenly felt very unsure. The entire building was coated in a lime wash. Making it nearly pearl white. Accents of marble and gold all around. He had only ever cared about invading the place but now that he might be working here it was daunting.

The Zorian was was approaching the castle with Zach was a simulacrum. Zach seemed to not care which version of Zorian he was with and was equally as affectionate to the simulacrum. The golem body under the ectoplasm can’t be nearly as comfortable as Zach’s cuddling on the train made it seem.

The original Zorian was still in Cyoria. Getting everything ready for transport. Through letters they had gotten agreements to the contract with only one thing added. The only person they answer to would be Ferdinand. No one else. It was strange from Zorians perspective but Zach assured him it was mostly a powerplay. Being the sole commander of two archmages was bigger then Zorian was thinking.

Getting closer to the gates they were greeted by a red haired man with a tailored, fitted jacket with purple with intricate gold embroidery and patterns.

Looking at the rest of the entourage. Zorian got the idea the princes had a set color. Purple seemed to be Ferdinand’s. The mans coat even had purple in it. A decorative over coat that had purple embroidery down its edges.

“Welcome, Zorian and Zach.” The man greeted them calmly.

Instantly Zorian recognized him and greeted him as well. “Thank you Louis.” He approaches the man, Ignoring everyone else. The guards watching him with distrust and Zorian can’t bring himself to care.

“Oh? Was it so obvious?” The man smiles doing his best to not laugh.

“I remember how your voice sounds. It’s only been a week.” Zorian gives him an eyebrow raise. He then asks. “Are you here to guide us?”

“Yes. Follow me to where we plan to house you. The lab space and warehouse are close to it.” He tells them gesturing for them to follow before walking into the castle.

No one stopped them as he and Zach followed the man into the castle. Right through the main hall and down a corridor to their left.

Louis opens a rather innocuous door and leads them into a large open space. In the center holding a clip board was a pink haired man. His short sleek style making him look put together. The outfit was what gave Zorian pause. It was fancy. Much fancier then anything he ever has worn and that says something.

“Hi Ferdinand.” Zach greets in a way more friendly way then the pervious time. The man seems to have been lost in thought as he turns abruptly around. Showing off the signature Golden eyes of the royal family. Shining through the room.

“Ah, your here.” He looks down at his clip board. “I’m just about finished getting everything that you asked for on the contract.” He seems in a pleasant mood so Zorian doesn’t feel like pointing out it didn’t need to be done all at once. “What do you think about the ware house? Good enough for what you want?” He turns with a flourish to gesture at the large open space he was now providing them.

“Honestly.” Zach starts. “Were still gonna ward it to hell and back. Maybe give it some extra rooms with dimensional magic on doors.” He confesses.

“I expect nothing less.” Ferdinand tells him. “We have a second one available, You mentioned something in your letters about Zach collecting large creatures.” He jokes a little. “Would you like to see the apartment we decided on?” He asked turning to them.

“Apartment?” Zorian questioned. “That wasn’t a requirement.”

“Yes. I felt the need to offer you a dwelling for while your in our care. I can’t expect you to take the train everyday.” He told them with a rye smile.

“We can teleport to Cyoria.” Zorian tells him with little to no fanfare. “I was debating opening a portal between the two.”

“You both know how to make that?” Ferdinand asks suddenly more focused then before. Jovial nature dropping away to show his character. His true nature befitting of a leader. “Can I set that as your first task? Creation of a portal hub?”

Startled Zorian only somewhat nods. “I would need more then just me working on it.” He tells his employer.

“Great. Give me a list of professionals and I will send them work requests. We can have it started by the end of the week.” He speaks with assurity. “Also send me a list of all items you will need. I want one for Iklincen, Padina and Nabopal. With something like that, we should have guaranteed control over the coast.” He gets a scheming look over his face. One that made them both feel dread.

Turning to Zach and Zorian he keeps that smile of a scammer. “You both are already paying off. Keep this up and ill have to find a suitable bonus for you both.” He snarks.

Zach frowns but says nothing. The two of them aren't used to being handed what ever they want. There's also the underlying knowledge that what they will work on will be used in war. It bugged them less then it should.

The simulacrum of Zorian feels the need to pass on his memory pack to the original. Contacting him quickly. He gets a huff of annoyance in response. Also the order to just open the gate already.

Snarking back to the original that they were currently talking to the crown prince. The original just responds with, Kirielle is driving him nuts waiting to see the castle and to just hurry up.

“I apologize. I’m being hurried to open the gate.” Simulacrum Zorian smiles happy that the original will take responsibility for their rudeness. Walking over to a wall, he starts using the spell.

“Finally.” Kirielle says through the portal. Running inside to Jump on the simulacrum. His arms quickly catching her and hoisting her up into his arms. “I was waiting for so long! He said you were gonna show me the castle so lets go!” She complains looking around at the empty room.

“Is this the castle?” She queries. “It’s really boring.”

The entire time, the crown prince was watching him work. Interest evident. The simulacrum decides to vacate the situation and carries Kirielle over to louis. “Think we can get a tour of the palace?” He asks the red haired man.

“Sure. We can see the gardens, Ferdinand's younger sister likes the location as well.” He informs before guiding them out the room. Kirielle squirming in his hold as they leave the room. Trying to look at everything. “Oh its much prettier out here.” She informs them loudly.

The original Zorian walks through the portal with a firm scowl in place. Turning to Zach the moment he gets eye line of him. “You couldn’t keep my Simulacrums in check?”

With a jovial laugh, Zach cheerily informs him. “I enjoy your simulacrums their much less pragmatic.”

“They also just gave us work.” Zorian complained.

“No. He just gave you work. Not me.” Zach points out with finger guns.

Zorian raises an eye brow, disbelief written all over his face. “You think your getting out of dimensional magic because?”

“I’m cute?” Zach tries but gets no response. “Right fine. Admit that I’m better then you at it and ill agree.” Zorians incredulous look, eyes widening in ‘are you actually trying that?’ before sending an incineration beam at Zach.

Zorian watches as it uselessly is dispelled and the remainder swatter away like a fly. Its remaining fire damage harmlessly scorching the ground.

“You two have very strange ways of flirting.” Ferdinand cuts in. Quite astonished by the casual displays of power the two do for fun and flirting.

“Only when he's being grumpy like this.” Zach happily informs him. Walking over to the gate to start magically moving all the stuff from their old warehouse. Zorians golems already carrying large crates of things into the room.

Ferdinand takes in the sight of the golems and seems to mentally add another thing to his list. “Right. I will come back later then. I assume you have other plans for the foreseeable future then settling into a new apartment.” He takes in the quick speed and precision the golems have for their actions. “Are you personally controlling them?” He asks Zorian.

“No, their programed. I give them commands and they complete it based on a prior series of parameters that I set. Moving objects and coordinating them selves was easy.” He tells the man. Turning to the man he informs him. “I suspect you will spend your entire day here calculating the use of all our abilities. Do you want a desk?”

Startled by the lack of care for secrecy the man mulls over the idea. “I wouldn’t mind. I planned to let you settle in but it seems you both came to terms with the situation quite quickly.” He watches as Zorian nods. A Golem that was walking in the group breaking away to collect a desk and another going to collect a chair.

-

Zach and Zorian work quite efficiently. Getting through the bulk of it before the hours up. Between magic and physically sorting things. Zach was getting to his wits end with boredom. The racking's and a majority of the shelves were already finished setting up.

It was just a matter of getting everything situated properly. This bone over here and this bundle of skin to this spot. The golems were doing the majority of the work. Setting the relevant item into a pile infront of their supposed spots.

Ferdinand was working on paperwork. Signing off on things and editing documents. Setting them aside for the original creator to explain them selves later or just redo it. He looks up when he hears Zorian yelp loudly. Catching sight of Zach holding the other in a waltz position.

“Come on.” Zach begs him looking smugly at the other. Zorian was struggling in his grip. Trying to get his arm off his waist. “I’m so bored. I can continue sorting with magic, just dance with me.” He complains putting on a begging expression.

Huffing in indignation, Zorian slaps his upper arm before seemingly giving in. The items Ferdinand had been seeing getting brought in were now being tangled in a web of blue threads. All of them originating from Zorian. “Fine. I’ll mark them and the locations just put them where they belong.”

Watching in fascination as Zach cheers with glee before starting a spinning dance. Zorians magic invisibly tagging at miscellaneous items and Zachs sending it to its spots. Items spiraling around them as though they were dancing with them.

With a start he realized they were. Two teeth flowing around a few times in a mockery of their waltz.

He could see a red blush traveling up Zorians face but they continued. All over the room items flowing into place. Glittering scales, shiny wings, clear bones and other strange items that he likely wont get an answer too. The blue threads never leaving the air around them. All of them lashing out to tap things. Almost impatiently.

Zach happily spun them. Stepping forward and back, leading Zorian in the dance. Zorians coat following his movements.

“What absurd levels of control.” He thinks, watching the two he made large concessions for. Noticing how well their mana flows together. Pushing his hand out to spin zorian before pulling him back into a boxing step pattern.

They might be the strangest people he has ever gotten on his side but their absurd behavior only rivals their absurd skill level. He figures it will be worth any trouble the two bring him. Results were all he needed.

Chapter Text

The first week in the castle was bland. Zach spent most of his time teleporting back to Cyoria to do miscellaneous things. Such as continued training of Taiven.

She was actually great to hand out with. As open and friendly as Zorian always said. Taiven’s personality was blunt and brusk. Her go too magic was still rather offensive magic. Not much in ways of defending. She send multiple bolts at him over and over. It was actually impressive when she was fighting. Competent and over all skilled.

Zach spent a good amount of time combating her magic. Dodging and shielding the majority of it. He wasn’t going all out and she knew that. The most recent barrage of attacks actually made him take a step back. Sending a shield to tank the rocks.

Taiven had used the ground as a attack. Sending a blast shooting Rocks in his direction. It was a good use of an otherwise overlooked thing. Most mages would ignore the earth since they needed to keep up a shield even while moving.

Over the last few days she had been learning such underhanded tactics. Rays of force shooting up from his feet. Only his magic sense making the attack null. If this was a normal mage, that would have won her the battle. A blind spot that she could exploit easily.

“That was good.” Zach praised. Clapping with his hands and sending magic missiles in large quantities at her. The barrage sending her into a defensive position. Her shield barely holding up after tanking the hits.

“It still didn’t hit you.” She complained breathing heavy after the work out. Her hand clenched tightly around the spell rod.

“I think thats a unreasonable complaint.” He laughs at her outraged face. “It would work on most monsters but you could also.” Zach lifts a large chunk of the ground and holds it up in demonstration.

The chunk of soil and rock that he was lifting was moved back and forth before Zach launched it at the tree line. It crashes through a few trees leaving a mess behind.

“I don’t know if I can do that.” Taiven looks at the wreckage in bewildered dismay.

“Oh don't be modest.” Zach walks over to her, clapping her firmly on the back. “You’’ll get there eventually.” He laughs when she shoots him a doubtful look.

Zach raises a hand forming the mud monsters. The golems that he once had Zorian learn from. Mentally realising. He misses those days. That skittish version of Zorian who watched everything he did with jaded awe. Oh well today is good enough.

“Start firing the earth at that. When it stops regenerating we will move on.” Zach tells her.

“I think sometimes your harder on me then Zorian.” Taiven tells him. Already getting into position to start properly casting. “I hope you realise this will take days.”

Zach laughs at her grumpy expression and feels he should tell her. “It took me a few years. Don’t worry so much.”

“Oh.” She looks even more grumpy. “A few years. Yeah thats great.” Her voice dry as the desert sands. It makes Zach laugh even harder at her. He pats her on the shoulder before doing his own personal practice.

-

Zach was tired of doing nothing. He has been watching Zorian tinker with small devices. Even Zorians simulacrums were busy. The lot of them working on the portal hub. Usually he could convince one of them to hang out with him when the original Zorian was preoccupied but today. He was just sat in the corner of the room.

Fiddling with a gun that Zorian had laying around. Zach was doing that cool shooter thing where they spun it on their finger. He was getting better at it as time passed. It was still boring.

Finally reaching his peak of boredom he sneaks up behind the original Zorian. Holding up a finger to the simulacrum that spotted him. He grinned widely at the shake of the mans head. Just before he reached his target, small strings looped around his wrists. Holding his fingers about five inches from Zorians waist.

“Oh come on.” Zach grouches. Noticing the other made no move to react. Still concentrating on his objective. The narrowed eyes and his glasses showing a zoomed in look at the metals intricate pieces.

Unwilling to give up that easily. Zach pushes against the others magic. Forcing the other to divide his attention to magically combat Zachs attempt. This keeps up for a little bit the pushing and attempts to subvert each other before Zorian turns abruptly. Levitating his work where he left it as he lash’s his hands out and draws Zach closer and into a tight hug.

“What is your issue now?” Zorian asks him eyes narrowed from where their faces now hovered close to each other. Zachs arms forced to hover behind Zorians back since they were moved with his body.

“I’m bored.”

“And how is this my problem?” Zorians slow eye brow raise and indifferent expression would have made others back off but Zach doubles down. Leaning forward to kiss Zorians nose. That gets an immediate reaction. Zorians eyes going wide and his checks a blooming red flush. “What the-” He blurts.

“I’m bored. Zorian I wanna do something.” Zach complains, looping his arms properly around Zorian and dropping his face into the others shoulder. Letting out an aggrieved whine. “I wanna do something.”

“Well. You’re a big boy, i’m sure you can figure it out.” Zorian tries to push him off now. The simulacrums around him laughing at his predicament. One extremely unhelpful one piped up. “You could take a break.” Zorian Number Three said.

Zorian feels Zach’s amusement radiating as he starts tickling him, one hand slipping under Zorian’s shirt to brush his spine, wiggling his fingers to get sensitive areas.. The touch sends jitters through him, triggering uncontrollable giggles as he struggles to shove Zach off.

When it’s clear he’s losing, Zorian loops his arms under Zach’s thighs and stands, using magic to lift him effortlessly. “Fine,” Zorian mutters, plotting revenge.

He strides out of the workshop and down the castle halls, Zach contentedly perched in his grasp. The silence breaks only when cold air brushes the back of Zach’s head. “Wait, where are we going?” he finally asks.

He spots a confused looking Louis as Zorian walks them past and into the gardens. A small girl in a regal outfit standing to his left. Both had bewildered expressions. Louis was whispering to the girl.

Zach might have paid more attention if Zorian hadn’t stopped so abruptly. Bewildered, he didn’t fight back as his prickly friend threw him. Instinctive panic took over as Zach tightened his legs around Zorian’s waist, dragging him along. The smug expression on Zorian’s face vanished, replaced by panic, a satisfying sight, if only for the few seconds.

Cold water crashed over them, frigid and jarring. After a flailing mess of limbs, Zach surfaced from the garden’s large fountain basin, gasping for air. “Zorian, what the hell?” he yelled, watching the other boy flounder like a drenched rat. “This is so fucking cold!”

“You were bored!” Zorian protested, scrambling to climb out of the fountain.

“Oh no,” Zach said, narrowing his eyes. He used magic to heat the water before manipulating it to drag Zorian under again. The man’s hands flailed desperately at the edge as ribbons of water coiled around his leg, pulling him back down.

“Thats what you get.” Zach laughs loudly. Its only a second before a ball of now warm water comes flying at him. Some pond plants in the mix. The weight of it knocking him back onto his back.

When Zorian finally resurfaced, he was on his hands and knees, hair flopped over his face as he glared violently at Zach. Small water bullets hovered near his head. Zach grinned. “Oh, you’re on.”

A short water fight erupted, the area gradually soaking in now-lukewarm water. Louis had to pull the girl back to a safe distance. From there, they watched as the two flung water at each other with reckless abandon.

“Do they realize it’s the beginning of winter?” the girl asked casually, clearly amused.

“I doubt it’s crossed their minds,” Louis replied, watching as Zorian gathered all the remaining water from the fountain to create a fake elemental that charged at Zach. The pair observed as Zach engaged the construct in hand-to-hand combat, while Zorian sneaked behind the dueling duo to lunge at him.

“You are such a prick!” Zorian shouted, though Louis noticed his magic cushioning their fall. He also saw Zach’s golden magic blend with Zorian’s wispy, misty-white magic to power the same spell.

Zorian landing onto aof Zach pinning him to the ground. “give up yet?” Zorian snarls into his face.

Zach peacefully lays there staring up at Zorian a half silent. “God your pretty.” rung out into the open area. Zorians angry expression immediately becoming embarrassed as he scrambles away. Moving till his back was pressed to the fountains edge.

The winter chill finally settling into all the loose water leaving small layers of ice around the place.

“Why are you like this?” Zorian despair, his face brilliant red.

Zach raises up to look at him, leaning his weight on his arms as he semi sits up.

That's when their audience reminds them of their presence as the girl starts giggling. Her amused expression hidden behind her hands. “You two are funny.” She stutters out.

the red of Zorians face getting brighter as he realises there's an audience. Before anyone can blink, Zorian was gone.

Zach huffs before laughing. “He ran away to his lab.” standing he uses magic to dry himself and warm his cloths back up. “nice to meet you. Sorry it was in such and unsightly manner. Zorian is much more polite as well.” He holds out his hand as he approaches the two.

The girl holds out her hand for Zach to take. “Pleasure to meet you as well. My brother told me all about you both.” her smile was that of nobility. Poised and trained. Just enough to not offend anyone or give them the impression she was bored in their presence. “My name is Marusa.” She blinks at him showing those royal gold eyes off. Her hair was pink like Ferdinands as well. Probably same mother.

A group of knights that had been guarding the garden were glaring at him. He gave them no thought as he kneeled properly and gave her hand a very light kiss.

Louis pipes up then to ask him. “What was that about? Are you too fighting?”

Standing again. Zach laughs loudly. “No, I was trying to get his attention. He’s been really focused on the project Ferdinand gave him. I’ve been getting really bored.” he explains.

“And that lead to this mess?” He gestures around the area.

Zach feels a bit bad and apologizes. “Ah. I’ll fix it.” He starts casting heating spells on the water. His magic making the whole area feel warmer. Once it was melted enough he started siphoning it back into the fountain. “We got a little out of hand.”

“That seems to be a recurring thing for you both.” Louis jokes a little.

As the water was gathered from all over the pavement, Zach looks back at him with a rye smile. “Yes. It’s more fun this way isn't it.” He waves his hands gathering some of the water closer.

Using some alteration magic he forms them into ice roses. Just the flowers being formed over his hands. He makes the blooms circle the girl. Petals of ice flowing in with them to give a enchanting energy to it.

Their spiral up and into the sky before bursting in a dusting over the area. The ice dust raining like snow around them.

“Wow!” She smiles widely at it. Holding out her hands to catch the snow. “You are very good at magic. I wish I could have kept one of them though.” She feels the snow melting on her palms.

“It sadly would have melted.” Zach tells her honestly. “I can make you a glass rose if you want. It can mimic the design and wont melt.” He offers the girl already seeing Kirielle in her. Her calm exterior doesn’t really fool him. Anyone in her position would have so many tutors they would no doubt end up like her.

He knows that Marusa is like all little girls. Wanting something fun while their children. Her startled and then pleased look tells him he’s right. “Oh that would be lovely. I will have to find a place for them after you do. Thank you for that offer.” She has a excited glint in her eyes that gives away her excitement.

Louis is watching him warily but Zach just nods to her. “I’ll send it to you later okay?”

Her restrained nod was only contrasted fully by the excitement in her eyes.

-

There was a cafeteria for the people working at the castle. It had really good food and Zach was quick to drag Zorian there after being told. Despite learning to cook, it was more of an enjoyment thing and not a survival deal. He still preferred getting someone else to cook actual meals.

The cafeteria was large and had numerous seating options. Big to small tables. There was a group of knights all seated together. They were laughing loudly and ignoring the world around them.

The closest tables were all empty in their general area.

Zorian took note them but let himself follow after Zach. He was animatedly gushing about the cooks Blitva s Krumpirom. A side dish that consisted of swiss chard and potatoes. Nothing out of the ordinary in Zorians opinion.

He was rotating a pen while they waited in the line up. Just fidgeting with it as he listened to Zach. Content to have it orbit his hand and then spin like a fan before orbiting his hand again. It was strange that he was feeling peoples resentment. His brows furrowing as he tries to find the source in the large crowded room.

It must have shown on his face because Zach stops talking and ask’s “What’s up?”

“Someone hates us?” Zorian states the dilemma. “Theres alot of resentment directed at me and you in here. I think its the knights.” He informs Zach still trying to puzzle out why.

A lady in front of them intrudes into the conversation then. “Your Zorian and Zach right?” She asks. Their attention falling on her now. A woman with long brown hair thats tied up in a cage braid that descends down her back. Her outfit made Zorian think of a crafter. A sleeveless, dark-colored shirt with leather patches and steel hardware, complemented by straps and utility pouches at her hips. Sturdy, practical boots complete the outfit, with notable steel caps.

Zorian realises he was just glancing over her outfit and introduces him self. “Yes, and your one of the craftsman?” He guessed. “Or someone who’s in the forge?” He adds on because she could easily be both.

“Forgemaster Dubravka, at your service.” She smiles widely to him. “I’ve been intending to introduce my self to you within the week. This seems a good a time as any.”

“Oh?” Zach asks in interest. “Have we really made such an impact that the Forgemaster herself wants to see us?” He jokes but is actually quite serious about the dent they have made.

“It’s really rare for the prince himself to recruit people. Theres also,” She walks forward as the line moves. “The two warehouses that got comendered by you two. It’s not everyday that someone gets and exclusive workspace like that.”

Realising that is was obvious and definitely a powerplay on Ferdinands side. Zorian rolls his eyes. “Well. I was actually going to see the forge soon. I have quite a few projects that a actual metalworker would benefit from. It’s nice to meet you Dubravka.” He holds out his hand as he also walks up the line.

She has a firm grip and rather prominent calluses. Zorian tries to greet her in kind but gets the idea his grip is not as impressive. “The knights also have been taking notice of you. Zach.” She releases his hand and turns to Zach instead. “You have made quite the stir. The prince has been in talks about getting you training his teams. For people like that some kid coming out of no where is a bit like sandpaper on skin.” She mimes the process with a grimace.

“Oh?” Zach laughs slightly before responding. “That doesn’t bother me. If they don't say it to my face their not worth our time.” He confidently talking louder then necessary. Zorian feels like this was just asking for trouble but given that is what Zach likely wants he holds his tongue.

Dubravka assess’s them for a second before bursting into loud laughter. “Good good. I think I will get along great with you both.” She claps Zach and Zorian on the shoulders. Zach weathering the action with ease where as Zorian stumbles into Zach’s side.

The conversation transfers to Zorians plans, and how he spends the rest of their wait and part of lunch telling her about his plans. Leaving out the greater information which she takes well too but starting into his plan of recreating Mrva. He wants to make her even better then last time.

Now that he’s employed by the crown, his budget became higher. He no longer had to worry about spending too much or contacting people to make it happen either. The original version was already successful but nothing is prefect.

It wasn’t till Zorian and Zach were practice sparing, to wheen off excess energy from Zach, that this issue came back.

Standing in one of the practice fields. Zach was defending from Zorians attacks. Zach hands free casts a spell that starts spreading freezing ground towards Zorian. Ice spikes shooting up from the ground like spears.

Zorian throws out a potion bottle that gets caught in the forming ice. He sends a pulse that explodes it, the solution bursting and melting the ice easily. Zorian uses a unstructured magic to gather up the melted water solution mix and start launching it at Zach.

Launching the water balls skyward like a catapult. They spread across the ground on impact. As expected, it didn’t hit Zach but it left him no ground to stand on. Forcing him into the air. The ground was steaming as the solution melted all organic matter it touches.

Zorian is forced to shield and teleport quickly when fireballs are launched his way. The shields shattering as the fireball changes trajectory mid flight to give chase. He dispelled the magic but still felt the heat from the fire.

Running across his side of the battle. Zorian pulls out one of his pistols. Choosing the one that was augmented to fire shock bullets. They break through Zachs shield with ease. Forcing him to dodge the shots.

“I thought we were doing not lethal!” Zach shouts from one hundred feet away. “That was a gun Zorian!”

“It was a rubber shock bullet!” Zorian shouts back and then furrows his brow and sends out a tether to communicate mentally. In between a few more attacks Zach accepts his tether. “Why are you shouting.” He mentally complains.

“Because its fun.” Zach grins before throwing masses of rocks in Zorians direction. Forcing him to make evasive actions. Throwing up a wall of force to block most of it and roll to dodge the rest.

Three shots ring out, the dust from Zach’s last attack obscuring Zorian enough to get in a good hit. The bullet impacting him sticking to uncovered arm. Zach screams in panic swiping at the bullet to get it off.

In his distraction Zorian Teleports behind him. Expecting to get in a final blow but Zach just unleashes a spell he had cast prior. Ectoplasmic threads unfolding from where he had them wrapped at his waist. The shoot out and encircle Zorian.

After successfully wiping off the bullet. Zach turns to him. They both accept that he won the moment the threads twined around Zorians limbs. “Thats 2-0?” Zach grins impishly at his fellow mage. Holding him in the air where he appeared.

Frowning Zorian rolls his eyes. “Yes, I accept defeat.” He moves his arms to silently request being let go.

Zach lowers them both to the ground his feet evening out as he touches down. Zorian stumbles slightly when hes released. “What did you melt the ground with?” Zach asks looking over at the still fuming ground.

“Nitric acid and hydrochloric acid.” He tells him. Using a spell to fold the earth into its self. Pushing the chemicals down. Normally he would have delt with it better but this was a battle field. Not a place he needs to worry about chemical damage to the earth.

They were just cleaning up the arena when a group entered. That same one from the cafeteria. Zorian mentally send Zach a question. The other boy halfway across the field evening terrain that he used as projectiles. “We should leave. I don't really care to stay and chat with these guys.”

“These guys are your coworkers you know?” Zach looks over his shoulder to Zorian amusement sent down the tether. “Lets hear them out. Maybe its solvable.”

Not enjoying the concept but accepting it. “Fine.” he concedes but adds. “You do the talking. I’m really not interested in this.” Zorian grouches already annoyed by the situation.

Loudly Zachs laugh fills the open field. He gives a nod while walking over to Zorian.

“So you are the people we’ve been hearing all about.” The head soldier speaks once he gets close enough. Zorian hears Zach in the back of his head repeating the words but in that childish annoying way.

Shooting a caustic glare at Zach, he cuts their mental connection. Zach pouting immediately. It doesn’t get him down much when he approaches holding out his hand to the soldier. “Nice to meet you, I’m Zach Noveda.” He smiles broadly.

“I’m the head of the Royal Guard. You’ve probably heard of me before.” The man smiles widely, Zorian can feel his emotions loud and clear. He was angry and smug. Nothing else. This man believed he was on a different level then them.

“Nope.” Zach pops the p still holding out his hand. “Never cared much for royal factions.”

The man looks angry now. His smugness giving way to annoyed hatred. “Well it should be important to learn them now that you are here. Wouldn’t you agree?” He still refuses Zachs hand.

The other men around him looked a mix of uncomfortable and supportive. Half the group were on the same side the other half were not. Interesting. Zorian started making contingency plans of how to deal with that issue.

“Oh well. What did you need anyway? Just a greeting?” Zach finally lowers his hand to pull out one of the daggers he has a Zorian simulacrum make in the last few days. It was a purple bladed dagger that Zach had requested.

The Zorian Simulacrum who was bored with his task immediately abandoned it to figure out what mix of heating and chemicals would get that result. Originally the request was a pink dagger but after trialing it for a while and only getting purple heat stains, Zach was happy to accept the result.

It had a finger loop that Zach played with as he waited for the Soldier to respond. “I was curious what the two of you were doing out here.” The man speaks in an oily way.

“Stress relief.” Zach smirks. “We were doing practice spars to let off some steam.” He explains even if he’s only partly right. Zach was letting off steam, Zorian was just helping him.

“I see.” The man looks around at the cleaned up arena. “I couldn’t tell.” He speaks in such a way that pissed of Zorian but he ignores it.

“Good.” Zach bulls over the offence giving a blinding smile. “That means our clean up efforts worked. Zorians acid mixture would have been a hassle if people unaware got caught in it.” He jokes forcing any bad words to come from the other man.

“I meant.” He begins with a eye roll. “That you both don’t look very tired. It must have been childs play.”

“It kinda was.” Zach agrees with a slightly more tense grin. “We can’t kill each other.” The anymore left unsiad. “So we’re limited to non lethal attacks. It’s so restricting honestly. Zorian would have tried to sever my arms off if he was allowed.” Zach nudges Zorians side in a joking manner.

There was a string of unease through the backup soldiers but the main one just scoffs. “How good can you be. Your what ten? Eleven?” He waves his hand dissmissively. Finally getting to the point of why he showed himself. “Look, I don’t know how you got here. But this isn’t a childrens playground. I don’t care why the prince, hired you.” He says that with a air of disdain. Obviously not fond of Ferdinand. Zach wasn’t the most favorable to him when they met either so its not surprising. “Just don’t involve your selves in my squad.”

That got both their attentions. By what they currently know, the soldiers had nothing to do with their jobs here. At least that is what they think. Zorian thinks back to his contract and realises. Nothing in it stated that Ferdinand couldn’t ask them to train a squad. Dubravka’s statement the other day makes more sense if that was the case.

“We don’t have any issue with you.” Zach now looks slightly more serious. “That I can tell were working on creation currently. Nothing to do with the military’s armed forces.” He tells the man.

“Then why are five of my men being pulled?” He narrows his eyes disbelievingly. “You’re telling me, everyone who says their being placed on your squad are lying?” He pokes Zach in the chest.

“Well. We weren’t informed at least.” Zach brushes the hand away with a tense movement. “First we have heard about it.”

“No not both of you. Just you mister Noveda.” The soldier snarls now. “Why should some untrained child get some of my best men.” He grits out.

“First off.” Zach now gets defensive. “I didn’t ask for this. Second of all. I’m not untrained.” He takes a step back, tugging Zorian by the shirt as he does so. Forcing them both to get disdain from them. “Talk to the person who did it not us.”

“Again your what. Eleven. Of course your untrained. You probably haven’t even fought in a battle.” He takes a step forward following Zachs backtracking. “And you should go talk to them, tell them how absurd it is to put you in charge of them.”

“Are you trying to start a fight?” Zach asks suddenly getting annoyed as well. Zorian has been the entire time so glad their on the same page.

“You know what?” The man snarls. “Yes. I will show them why its a bad idea to entrust soldiers to children.” He swipes his hand out at Zach to shake.

Zorian is now quite done with the situation and doesn’t like how much time and energy that will take to solve. He buts in then. “No. We aren’t fighting you, go figure your’re own life out yourself.” He steps forward then, getting in the mans face.

“Actually.” Suddenly, Zach is more bright and cheerful about the situation. “Why don’t you fight him?” He loops his chin over Zorians shoulder. Gesturing with one hand to point at the top of Zorians head.

“Zach what?” Zorian blurts out. He tries to turn but is stopped by a hand on his hip holding him in place. The other man looks affronted too now.

“Because your friend isn’t registered as a combat mage?” He rebukes angrilly. “You really so scared you want your friend to fight in your place?”

“Come on Zorian.” Zach whines into Zorians ear. Loudly drawing out his name. “If you only use three spells you can choose where we go on vacation next.” He offers the challenge no longer caring about the guys issues and just the idea of seeing Zorian fight.

“You would be willing to spend a weekend with my sister in the hot springs?” Zorian asks suddenly more interested. “I planned to take Kael, Kana and Imaya as well you know?”

“Why are you ignore me.” The soldier cuts in.

“Sure.” Zach agrees. “I wanted to go to the Sarokian Highlands but sure.”

“We can go there on a trip for items soon.” Zorian offers already set on agreeing to the match.

“Yeah but thats now a work trip!” Zach whines again.

The soldier seems to be getting more angry and he just shouts. “What are you two talking about!”

“Fine. Tomorrow. Meet us here, if you win we will talk to Ferdinand about the issue.” Zorian finally focuses on guy again. “If you don’t well honestly I don’t care.” Zorian admits. “I guess Zach is already paying your part of this bargain.”

He walks away, Zach using magic to float behind him like a cape again. His use of magic only floating him leaving all the heavy lifting to Zorian. The group lets him leave because they seem at a loss for words. He didn’t hear an agreement but figured that he would show up regardless.”

-

While everyone was settling down for the fight. The other soldiers who agreed with the one in the arena taking a seat on the benches. The few who didn’t were seated slightly apart from them.

Because of the nature of the fight, Zach had immediately sent a request to talk with Louis. He got laughed at when he asked in Ferdinands personal office. “What did you expect not to do anything?

Zach speaks up. His voice less joking for once. The uncommon serious expression on his face as he looks out at the arena. “Hey Ferdinand. even if after this you find yourself attracted to him, don't think you have a chance.”

“Why would this suddenly make me do such a silly thing. I've seen his skills, if I was attracted it would already have happened you don't have to worry.” The man jokes before seeing that Zach was no longer listening. He was only making basic conversation before the match. His true focus was down there.

“Oh?” Zach mutters eyes locked on Zorian who was standing in the arena. Empty space all round. the wind blowing softly through his hair and making the misty white orb earrings sway lightly. "In my opinion. This is my second favorite side of Zorian." The soldier contrasting Zorians relaxed attire. The puffy shirt and vest combo with standard black slacked that Zorian sported in direct opposite to the proper leather armor and shoulder pauldrons the man was wearing.

"What's your favorite then?" Ferdinand idly fakes interest. Also more interested in the outcome.

"Him happy."

Ferdinand seems to brush off his comments and inane, Zach just sits on the edge of the arena, seated on the wall it's self and not the seats. His feet swaying In excitement. Seeing Zorians masterful use of magic in combat wasn't something he gets to see often. Anytime in the past that Zorian fought in such a serious way, Zach was busy with his own battle. only catching glimpses of those dark brown eyes. Narrowed sharply like a predator.

Where Zach prided himself on being strong. Zorian was smart and resourceful.
The fight began.

“Spell one.” Zorian mentally noted. Zorian attacked first, launching an abrasive and relentless offensive. Magic Missiles streaked through the air in rapid succession, their trajectories precise and calculated. Among them, Screamers and Bashers wove a chaotic symphony of destruction. The Screamers circled the soldier, their piercing shrieks creating a disorienting resonance that reverberated through the battlefield.

Zorian moved with calculated purpose, his pace slow but deliberate as he circled his prey. The constant barrage of Magic Missiles forced the soldier into a defensive stance, his shields flickering under the unyielding assault. Small, glowing red stars dotted the ground in Zorian's wake, a ring of destruction being meticulously constructed. Counting the next spell. “Spell two.”

The soldier finally managed to dispel the Screamers, but his moment of relief was short-lived. A string of five Magic Missiles hung ominously in the air, moving at an almost lazy pace before suddenly accelerating toward him with blistering speed. The abrupt change caught the soldier off guard, forcing him to redirect his shields just in time to absorb the impact.

The projectiles smashed into the shield, shattering it. In the chaos, invisible missiles slipped through the gap, striking their target with ruthless precision. "What hit me?!" the man shouted, pain evident in his voice. His focus splintered, too consumed with defense to notice the stealthy attacks until it was too late.

Still, the soldier wasn’t finished. Chanting furiously, he launched his counteroffensive. An Incineration Ray and ominous black orbs glided soundlessly toward Zorian.

But Zorian didn’t shield himself. Cataloging his last spell he planned to use. Instead, he teleported, appearing ten feet back with unnerving calmness. His movements were fluid, predator-like, as he resumed his slow circling. Each time the soldier struck, Zorian vanished and reappeared, forcing the man to adjust his aim blindly. The soldier’s attacks grew erratic, desperation creeping into his movements as Zorian’s missiles continued their relentless pursuit.

With a frustrated scream, the soldier began carving crude anti teleportation wards into the ground. "Now you can't"

His words were cut short as Zorian with the help of his active simulacrums, ran through the ward quickly. Getting a full analysis before stomping out the weak points in the half-formed ward. The crude glyphs disintegrated under the magical rebound, leaving the man staggered. Clutching his head with h

Zorian’s brown eyes glinted, darker than ever, as he circled closer. Zach, watching from the sidelines, caught the moment Zorian reached for his pistol. The weapon slid smoothly from its holster, his left hand gripping it while his right hand retrieved two vials from his pocket a purple liquid and a white one.

The soldier, desperate, unleashed a larger spell. From his outstretched hand, a massive glowing orange orb burst forth, sparking and twisting as it hurtled toward Zorian. But Zorian remained unshaken. Without breaking stride, he tossed the purple potion directly into the orb. The impact triggered an explosion, transforming the projectile into a dense cloud of gas that obscured the battlefield.

The soldier, coughing and disoriented, cast frantic spells to clear the air. But as the haze began to lift, the white potion rolled silently across the ground beneath his feet. Catching sight of it, the man hastily erected multiple layers of shields, his panic evident.

Then it happened. The red stars that stayed in waiting all this time converged. The ring of glowing dots spiraled inward like a collapsing galaxy, each star crashing into the soldier's shields in blinding bursts of light. One by one, the layers shattered, his desperate chants unable to outpace the relentless barrage. Dust and dirt filled the air as the final impacts struck.

When the chaos cleared, Zorian stood behind the soldier, his pistol pressed coolly to the back of the man’s head. The soldier froze, every muscle tensing under the cold metal. "I win," Zorian stated, his voice calm and absolute.

The dust settled, revealing the scene to the audience. Ferdinand’s surprise was evident, while Zach’s face lit up with exhilaration, his feet swinging eagerly as he watched. It was an outcome Zach had expected, but it didn’t make witnessing Zorian’s meticulous, overwhelming victory any less satisfying.

The soldier trembled, his pride refusing to yield even in defeat. Zorian seemed to sense it. Without a word, he shifted the gun five inches to the left and fired.

The shot rang out, the bullet slamming into the ground beside the soldier. A fiery explosion followed, consuming the earth in a violent burst before collapsing inward like a vacuum. When the dust cleared, a perfectly carved crater remained, pristine and unyielding.

"You lose," Zorian said simply.

The soldier’s defiance crumbled. The deafening roar of the shot left his ears bleeding, forcing him to the ground in agony, clutching his head. Zorian holstered his pistol, his cold, predatory gaze fading as he turned and walked away.

Ferdinand's only response was "I see why that's your second favorite." He seems pleased. Something he always did when he learned a new thing about them.

Feeling his own overwhelming enjoyment Zach doesn't even respond. Still keeping his gaze locked on Zorian. Sensing his attention, Zorian looks up and meets Zachs eyes. Zach feels a zing of enjoyment for the few moments that his eyes remain battle focused.

The moment passes and Zorians gaze softens and he feels a probe at his mind. "You seem happy." zorian tells him the moment Zach let's him in.

"Of course I am." Zach excitedly tells him. Sending the memory of the battle through his eyes. "I sometimes wish we tried a battle to the death before leaving the loops." Zach wistfully thinks at Zorian.

"What you want to kill me?" Zorian gives him a concerned look from across the field. Deciding he's done with the now trembling soldier as he starts walking over.

"No, I just would love to go all out against you and your tech. But alas. We would cause too much property destruction." Zach makes an act of swooning raising an arm up to cover his face.

"Dramatic." Zorian deadpans before sending him a question. "Is that how I look to you?"

Straightening up, Zach smiles widely at him. "What attractive and scary?" getting a node of confirmation Zach starts giggling audibly. "Yes, especially in battle."

"Hmm." Zorian hums now standing below Zachs perch. Zach makes a plate of force to lift him up.

Returning the favor, Zorian sends a mental memory of Zach in battle. Show casing how he viewed him as well. Zach fighting princess the first time, those massive sharks. The expressions and how he remembers his magic. Zach smiles widely and extends his hands out when Zorian gets high enough. Zorian rolling his eyes but takes his hands. “I also win our bet. Only three spell types. Teleport, Fireball and Magic missile.” he smirks slightly. “We’re going to the hot springs. I want a relaxing vacation.”

Moving to seat himself next to Zach, Zorian turned to Ferdinand. “Your soldiers need work,” he said bluntly. “He tried to use high-power magics that require a lot of skill. Even his shields were high class.”

“Is that an issue?” the prince asked, his eyes still scanning their interactions.

“Yes,” Zorian replied flatly. “His shaping skills and his basics are horrible. I beat him using nothing but Magic Missile and Teleport. I have a low mana reserve compared to him, yet he wasted a lot of his on spells that require significant mana.”

“I noticed you fired a lot of Magic Missiles-some rather interesting variants,” Ferdinand remarked, probing further. “Doesn’t that prove you have more mana than you think?”

“If I fire one Magic Missile per second, I recover the mana before casting the next one, effectively making the cost negligible,” Zorian explained. “Practicing a spell reduces its mana usage because spells don’t usually require that much. It’s poor shaping skills that lead to excessive consumption.”

“I see,” Ferdinand said, smiling faintly. “So, you’re saying they lack the basics?”

“Yes,” Zorian confirmed.

Zach let out a hearty laugh. “Zorian’s right, but he puts way too much importance on shaping skills. Did you know this guy worked on them even in the Black Rooms?” He squeezed Zorian’s hand before pointing out the soldier’s flaws. “That guy was also overusing magic. He flung high-level spells at Zorian without using situation-specific ones. If someone’s bombarding you like Zorian was, and you have plenty of mana, match their attacks blow for blow. I would have countered his spells mid flight.”

Zorian rolled his eyes. “Zach, he also relied on verbal components. He couldn’t even fire back properly.”

“Then he didn’t practice the basics enough. You’re right,” Zach agreed. “He should’ve had a quick-cast spell ready.”

“His shield also dropped every time he cast,” Zorian added nonchalantly. “That’s why I could hit him with the potion bottle.”

Ferdinand’s expression shifted as he recalled something. “Right, the potion. What was that?”

“The antidote,” Zorian replied, raising an eyebrow.

“Wait.” The group turned to glance at the soldier now passed out in the field.

“Oh well. He’ll wake up in about 20 hours,” Zorian said, rolling his eyes. Using a small gate, he retrieved the potion lying nearby, letting it drop into his pocket.

“I see,” Ferdinand murmured.

Chapter Text

Zorian's body convulsed as a heavy object lands on him. Suddenly he’s awake, but very tired still. His sisters beaming face is the first thing he sees. If it wasn’t for his not insignificant mental enhancements, he might have freaked out.

There were other signs too. Growing pains that he hadn’t dealt with for years. That ache in his bones. A sore feeling that can only be growing pains. There's also the startled yelp from the man next to him. Kirielle having landed on both of them. “Good morning brother!” She screams. Washing away any remnants of sleep.

Zach curling up around his pillow in rejection of her presence. Serves him right. He’s the one who told her to do this. “Morning Kiri.” He greets her. His voice horse and scratchy from not drinking water the night before. A quick glance outside shows its still barely morning. “What is your demands?” He raises an eyebrow at her.

After some talking, Kirielle visited him this weekend instead of Kana and Nochka. The train ride was still the same. She and his mother stayed in the second bedroom. The apartment they were given had two roomed. They probably weren’t sure if they shared a room or not.

Kirielle shakes him while excitedly exclaiming. “It’s first snow Zorian! First snow!” She's shuffling off the bed now, pulling at the covers. Because she's pulling from Zorian's side, Zach is uncovered first. The noise of displeasure he makes sounds similar to a pained dog.

“Zorian.” He keeps his voice neutral as he peaks a single eye open. “You made me get used to sleeping in.” Before Zorian can defend himself. Zach is sitting up, taking the pillow with him. His fluffy pajamas all wrinkled but he's getting up.

With a huge sigh, Zorian decided it would be best to just go along with the idea. Magically grabbing cloths from the closet. Warm coats and hats. Forcing Kirielle to hold still as he arranges her to not be frozen solid.

The make their way through the halls. Kirielle dragging both of them by the hands. She was constantly staring out the windows as they passed. Making Zorian have to direct he and Zach. Zach still hadn’t released the pillow. Obviously taking great comfort in having something to hug. Almost like he wanted to take the bed with him.

He leads their small gathering to the garden. Figuring that would be a good a place as any to let Kiri loose.

Surprisingly their not the only ones up and visiting the snow. Ferdinand Louis and Marusa were also dressed for the weather and entering the courtyard at the same time as them. It’s then that Zorian thinks over the locations they use. The royal residences were a series of buildings and he’s now realizing this was Ferdinand's. Likely the location for their mothers children to dwell. Them and their subordinates.

“Oh good morning.” Louis calls over, waving slightly as they get closer. “Your up earlier then normal, visiting the snow as well?”

Kirielle was the quickest to answer. “Yes! We have to make a snowman! And have a snow ball fight!” She smiles widely dragging Zorian and Zach onward. “Are you also going to make a snowman?” She asks Marusa with a friendly and inviting smile.

Instead of answering, Marusa looks to Ferdinand for permission. He waves her off saying. “If someone has a problem with it they can take it up with me.” Her expression brightens and then she's walking over to Kirielle.

“How do you start?” Marusa asks now participating but confused.

Cutting in for a second Zorian realizes she needs gloves. “One second Kirielle.” He quickly teleports to the lab, grabbing two pairs of work gloves he used for really cold things and then teleports back. He catches the tail end of the conversation. Zach laughing as Marusa excitedly asks him to make more snow creatures. “Sure shortie.” He waves his hand and snow forms into a bunny rabbit.

Zorian lets him distract as he remakes the gloves to be Kirielle’s and Marusa’s size. “Here you guys go.” He reaches over Zach to hand the girls their gloves. He had spent an extra moment adding in heating spell formula to the edges and using the excess fur that was no longer needed to make a fluffy trim.

“Thank you brother!” Kirielle gush’s immediately putting on the gloves. She then waits impatient for Marusa to put hers on before thanking Zach for the show and dragging her off. They both head over to a rather large area and Kirielle shows her how to make a small snowball and then how to roll it.

Zorian watches for a while, reinforcing the memory and adding it to his collection. The snow was softly falling around them. The world was quieter, sound damped by the fresh snow. It made his sisters laughter that much easier to hear.

Unconsciously Zorian had begun to smile. He didn’t even notice time had passed till Zach nudged him. “Their gonna need stuff to decorate when their done.” He gestures at the girls creation. A large snow ball that was taking both of them to push at this point. “They are also gonna need help to stack the next snow ball. Zach's feet crunch in the snow as he wanders over to a fir tree. Floating up to grab some remaining pinecones from a branch.

Ferdinand speaks up as Zach does his thing. “It’s going to be a day off for the castle mostly. Our mother instated a rule that no one works on the first snow day. That includes the cooks and the cleaning staff.” He seems apologetic but Zorian thinks that's actually a nice perk of the job.

“Do you even know how to cook?” Zorian asks thinking of the consequences of the issue.

“No he doesn’t” Louis answers. A pleasant smile on his face. “I don’t either. We were gonna live off bread and cheese for the day.”

Zach is wandering back with pine branches and pinecones in his arms. “I can cook. Now that the snow is here I was going to break out the gingerbread anyway.” He cheerily informs him.

“Where did your pillow go?” Zorian asks suddenly realizing that was missing.

“I sent it back to our rooms.” He waves off the issue before asking the others. “Any allergies?”

“None.” Louis informs them. “Marusa doesn’t enjoy vegetables. She won’t complain though. Ferdinand hates fish.” Ferdinand slightly flinches at the word. Suddenly looking interested in the sky. If Zorian wasn’t watching for a reaction, it would look naturally like he just became interested in the snow fall.

“I’ll make hot coco with mini marshmallows.” Zorian says to Zach. Not wanting to force all the cooking on him.

“Did you guys want to join us in hanging the dried fruit on the tree?” Zach ask’s seemingly feeling generous with their traditions. “We plan to light the second candle after lunch.”

The both look bewildered but nod slightly. “I would enjoy that.” Louis tells them honestly. He still seems off kilter by Zach’s behavior.

Kirielle shouts from their spot. “Zorian! Can you magic it up there?” She beg. Marusa standing next to her with snow in her hair and a red tint to her face. Kirielle really made her work hard. The snow ball was big.

“Sure.” He tells her, walking over quickly. Zach and the other two followed close behind. Zach readying the decorations for the girls to pick spots for them.

Forming a plate of force. Zorian tries to lift the giant snow ball. He immediately gives up when he notices how much of a strain he would give himself for no good reason. Turning to Zach he asks. “Can you do it? I’m gonna go get a scarf and hat for the snowman.” He gives himself a valid excuse. Teleporting out after getting confirmation when he feels Zach’s amused emotions.

Picking some random fabric and some fur he makes a hat and then sews the ends of the snowman scarf. It wouldn’t work for human use but for a snowman it works wonder’s. He teleports back mindlessly weaving threads to make snow flakes down the scarfs left side. Embroidery was relatively easy when you use magic.

Zach was flying the girls up, holding them both on his shoulders so they can put stuff where they like. The snow man already had five eyes and three arms. “That looks cool.” Zorian announces himself holding up the scarf and hat.

“Oh that's so pretty!” Kirielle gush’s looking over the snowflakes on the scarf. “Do we have to give it to Ms snowman?” She pouts.

“Yes.” Zorian tells her. “That’s just scrap cloth. I can make you an actually warm one with that design later but that one wouldn’t keep you warm.”

“Wait then it wont keep Ms snowman warm.” She realizes concern coloring her face.

“Ms snowman actually wants to be cold, she just wants to look good too.” Zach jokes lowering them so Zorian can pass over the articles. Marusa being handed the hat. She looks happy messing around like Kirielle was getting her to do.

Still floating above him, Zach pokes Zorian with a foot, getting snow all over his jacket. With a quick heating spell the wet spot is gone but Zorian still rolls his eyes at the other.

Grinning Zach flys the girls back up to the snowman. Letting Kirielle start the scarf before floating her in a circle around the top. The snow man was almost six feet. It was wide too. She had to lay it slowly around the snowman's neck.

After the scarf was neatly looped together at the front. He flew them higher for Marusa to place the hat on. “And done!” Zach says smiling widely. Gliding around the snowman softly to give a circle view of the finished product.

Ferdinand looked happy for his sister. Zorian didn’t press but he got the idea this is the first time he’s seen a snowman too.

After lowering to the ground and crouching down for the girls to hop off, Zach excitedly announces. “Hot chocolate time!”

“Wait what about the snowball fight.” Kirielle looks disturbed. Like he just removed the sun and said that’s normal.

“After breakfast?” Zach offers. “You know we haven’t eaten yet?”

“Oh right.” She seems mollified. Strutting back into the castle after that. “Okay. Breakfast time!”

Ferdinand puts a hand on the back of Marusa’s back, giving her a small nudge. With the implied permission, she immediately runs off after Kirielle.

-

Zach sets about making omelets and sausages. Laying some jam and bread on the table as he works. Zorian working around him to make six hot chocolates. Adding in candy cane to those who said wanted it, and cinnamon to others.

Once its all laid out at the kitchen table, the group digs in immediately. Ferdinand looking shocked before he turns to Zach. “Why are you actually a good cook?”

Laughing Zach asks him. “Did you think I was bad at it?” He looks far to amused by the shocked look also on louis face. “I’m multifaceted. What can I tell you.”

Finishing his food before speaking up Zorian bursts his bubble. “He learned some of it from our landlord and my mom.” He smirks slightly at the affronted expression and takes another bite. It really was good. Not dry at all with slight seasoning. Zach was genuinely getting good at cooking.

The meal goes smoothly, Kirielle getting overly dramatic at the end since her hot chocolate was gone. Zach reaching down to hold Zorian's wrist. His thumb holding over Zorian's pulse point as they ate. It wasn’t the first time and Zorian just let it happen with out issue.

After the meal, Zach made a show of cleaning up. sending all the dishes back to the kitchen with a flick of his wrist. Leaving the dishes for later and followed everyone else back outside.

-

The rest of the day was spent enjoying the snow, Zach starting a snow fight later in the day letting Kirielle and Marusa win.

There was still a few days of Kirielle’s visit but that night they got told about the real reason for the day of rest. “Wizards at the castle are tasked with clearing the capital of snow for the rest of winter.” Ferdinand told them when they were walking back inside. “You technically don't have to do anything but you might gain some ire if you don’t participate.” He smirks at them.

Zach was all for it. Quickly seeing it as a way to get along better with their fellow royal mages. Dragging Zorian out of the bed the next morning. Kiri was waiting at the door with a small bag of rock salt in hand. She was bouncing on her feet in excitement.

“Zach promised to show me how to do it!” Kirielle chirps. “He said it should be easy to do.”

Looking over at Zach, Zorian gives him a look that screams disagreement. “I see, sound good Kiri.” Zorian tries to keep a happy tone just for her.

“I’m going to be right beside her the whole time.” Zach nudges his shoulder, holding out Zorian's coat. “I’m just going to let her do the bare minimum.” He concedes to the dagger like gaze.

Nudging Zach’s mind with his, he waits for Zach to let him in before explaining where his issues lay. “I don’t want her discouraged by magic. Isn’t this to much for her?”

“It’s just a small piece of alteration magic. She has already shown an aptitude for it.” Zach tells him while talking verbally to Kirielle. They were heading out the front door now. Bundled in warm cloths.

“I promise to only let her help a little.” Zach promises. “She’s going to be the one melting any left over snow.” Zach makes sure to emphasize the thoughts around left over. Showing him a mental image of Zach purposefully leaving small amounts of snow behind for her.

He sighs and accepts the fact that its not really difficult. “Fine, no sense letting her down now.”

They get to where Ferdinand stated the mages would unite to be given their work zone. The sun was barely coming up over the roof tops by that point. Zorian and Zach stood on either side of Kirielle near the back of the group. Watching as a lady who reminded Zorian of Akoja walked around with a clip board handing out small maps. From what Zorian can tell they were instructions.

The lady finally gets to them and hands them two pages with out asking anything. “Monkey tree lane and Sinku road..” She tells them before continuing onward. She didn’t even bother asking about Kirielle.

Looking around at the other mages made him realise most were in groups. Were chatting casually. Some of them were already walking out of the courtyard. This was probably such a common tradition that they treated it like socialization time.

The work was quick. Between Zach and Zorian they had no issues removing the snow with speed. Following the instructions that were listed at the bottom of each page in neat font. They piled it up atop large grates in the wells. The cobble stone beneath made with a mix of gravel and sand.

Kirielle was gleefully throwing salt around the road, doing a rather good job of it. Zach had told her to treat it like a painting and to dust the whole street. The massive pile of snow surrounding the well was required to be melted. Zach and Zorian doing the majority of the skill leaving Kirielle to do her best.

“So, you remember what it felt like to maintain the orb?” Zach asks her crouched to her level. She nods and tries to follow his movements but is quickly becoming frustrated.

Zorian having completed his side of the pile was now walking over to her. “I could show you how and just follow what I did.” He offers realizing he could mentally control her to cast the spell.

There looks like a small internal war in side the little girl before she asks. “How?”

“I could control your mind and make you do it once. You would get a feel for it.” He casually explains. His sister was more used to his mental magic then stranger’s but even he wouldn’t be surprised if she says no to this. “I did a similar type of magic to teach my class mates to dance before.” He tried to cover up how invasive this would feel.

She wars with it for another try before huffing. “Okay.” Making grabby hands at him. “I wanna do magic.” Kirielle states a determination behind her eyes.

With a nod he takes her hands in his. Turning her palms up to the sky. Floating a small snow ball over them he delicately enters her mind. Her senses were the same as his and he took barely any time at all before directing Kirielle to cast a small heating spell. Letting her feel how it felt till the snow ball was melted and then slowly pulling back as she took over.

Her gaze was tense and focused as she melted the snow ball. Zorian needing to gather another and let her practice with that one too. “It’s all you now.” He tells her. Enjoying how her eyes went wide and she got excited.

Zach finished off the snow before leaning back against the well to watch them. Kirielle was slowly becoming exhausted as Zorian supplied her with snow balls.

After a few more snowballs Zorian determines that Kiri should stop so he stops making snowballs. “Good job.” He compliments her. Zach coming over to ruffle her hair.

They are all finished with the job so after some small hounding. Kirielle demands they get breakfast in town. The main shopping district was filled with lights, garlands and decorations. Kirielle basically vibrating in place as she controls her urge to run around and touch everything.

“Oh! They have cookies!” She cheers grabbing Zach’s hand to drag him to a booth. She gives him wide and pathetic eyes. “Can we get cookies?” She gives a good display of sad child energy. Zach caves immediately and in a single extends now is holding a box of ornament designed cookie designs.

Zorian feels the need to point out cookies aren't actually food when Zach pulls them over to a shop front. A few tables and chairs inside the little café with a large decorated tree in the corner of the room.

The cookies are placed on the table as a waitress comes over. Zorian is pulled into getting breakfast with ease. Letting Zach order them a plater of cold cuts and pickles with cheese. She takes an order for their drinks as well. Coffee for Zorian and orange juice for the other two.

The meal being more a pick what you like instead of a set dish. Zach and Kirielle taking up the bulk of chatter as Zorian relaxed back.

There was a tune going though out the street. Some seasonal thing that he hasn’t heard in literal years. He barely remembers the lyrics to the songs. A stray thought wonders if Zach still remembers any carols. He kind of doubts it.

Kirielle is moving her hands wildly, telling Zach about the previous Christmas that Zorian doesn’t remember. Something about Fortov finally getting Zorian to break down. “Zorian's bedroom is next to Fortov’s.” She explained with an amused expression. “So every night at just after midnight. Fortov would knock on the wall and wake up Zorian.”

“That’s-” Zach looks alarmed.

The memory was finally returning to Zorian and he groaned. “Oh I remember now.” If he remembers right. Kirielle was about to explain what happened next.

“And then on Christmas morning. Fortov did it again but Zorian was ready for him.” She conspiratorially tells him. “The moment the knock came. Zorian had burst into his bedroom and tackled Fortov.”

“I only got to see the ending, Mother had gotten up and screamed at both of them. It woke the whole house. She was so angry that Christmas started that way.” Kirielle giggles thinking about it.

“That’s interesting.” Zach tentatively tells her. Taking a sip of his orange juice to not have to respond.

“Yeah!” Kirielle misses the energy and carries on. “Zorian wouldn’t talk to Fortov for the rest of the day. When we went to the town dinner that night mother tried to force them to look presentable but ended up letting Fortov go sit with his friends. It was really funny.” She takes a piece of cheese popping it in her mouth while swinging her legs.

“That sounds fun.” Zach tentatively looks over to Zorian's stormy face. “Did you get him back?”

“I don't remember.” Zorian admits. “Probably?”

“Oh yeah.” Kirielle spoke again. “A few days later you put a beef stock cube in the shower head. Fortov smelled like beef till new years. Girls at the ball wouldn’t even approach him and a few dogs wouldn’t leave him alone.” She tells them with a chipper attitude. “I helped him distract Fortov while he did it.”

“Well that's good then.” Zach's eyes look between the two of them before landing on Zorian. “You were a trouble maker as a kid.” He finally seems to land on those words.

“Don’t worry. You will get your family treatment when everyone stops being nice to you.” Zorian rolls his eyes nibbling on a gherkin pickle. One of those sweet small ones.

Zach looks conflicted before he smiles widely. “I’m glad I think.” He kicks Zorian shoe under the table lightly.

Rolling his eyes he lets Kirielle pull out a few more stories about their childhood. Getting to be reminded of stuff long forgotten as much as Zach gets to hear about it for the first time. It was interesting hearing about what he was like as a kid.

They are walking back to the castle, Kirielle on Zach shoulders as she looks around at all the decorations. She had asked Zorian for a new pair of gloves when they had passed a shop. Silver and glittery gloves that had fluffy fur lining. There was snow flake embroidery on the backs of the hands and small sewn in evergreen trees on the edges.

It was a good time off for both of them. Zorian and Zach taking time off from working and Kirielle’s weekend away from home.

Chapter Text

The second week of winter after the first snow. Zach was given his first task. It had taken Louis a while to get the people he wanted into a team. Their original groups either out in the field or they were still working with their current group.

Quite a few of the people he planned to gather rejected the idea outright. It wasn’t unreasonable from their perspective. Being placed on a team who’s led by a fifteen year old not even out of the academy. One with a bad reputation for petulant behavior to boot.

This left louis with very little options and mostly outliers that already were lacking direction. At some point. Zach was given the option to choose people he knew for the team. It was entirely on him to train them so if he knew people he worked well with it was ideal.

This had Zach asking Taiven to be added.

Standing in the arena. Zach had been tossing fireball after fireball at the group with out halting. Taiven was sitting off to the side eating some of the cookies Zorian brought over.

“Gods above, It’s so nice not being his own target anymore.” She grouches.

Zorian feels like he should be able to commiserate but Zach had been a good teacher to him. “I can imagine.” He nods sagely.

Giving him a firm shove. Taiven rolls her eyes. “Your not a combat mage. I feel like you never had someone do this.” She gestures to the field of burn spots and the group of mages running for their lives. The humored grin on Zach’s face told them he was enjoying himself quite a lot.

A flash of remembrance and Zorian makes a unhappy sneer. “Yes, actually I did go through this.”

“Oh?” Taiven latches on to him then. Leaning into him. “Tell me about it.”

“One of my teachers was a battle priest. The first day he just blasted me until I tried to kill him.” Zorian looks at where Taiven has a grip on his arm and then rolls his eyes.

“How did you manage finding a battle priest?” She asks suddenly more interested then her teasing earlier.

“Long story.” Zorian cuts off the idea before giving her something else to focus on. “He didn’t tell me till after that he could control what his flames burn.”

“Wow.” She blinks a few times letting that information go through her. “That's some hefty spell work. I don’t even wanna imagine what it would take to get there.”

They both watch Zach as he makes a pit under on of his recruits dropping them into it. The man is laughing as he stands over it a giant fireball ready. When the majority of the team had deflected the fire ball, Zach launched hyper dense spheres at them instead.

“Are you serious!?” One of the men shouts. “We just finished with the fire!”

Zach laughs jovially from his spot. He had yet to even move from the original start. He launches more fireballs mixed in with spheres. “I will just keep adding things until you can knock me back!” He crows at them.

For not the first time Taiven sighs. “Yeah. I’m glad i'm not the only one suffering anymore.”

“I guess you have already gotten past this point?” Zorian asks as the ground shakes slightly. Zach uprooted some of the ground to throw in their direction now.

“A few weeks ago yeah. We’ve been working on defense ever since I landed my first hit.” She tells him proud of herself. She then frowns and asks in a slightly joking way. “You really had to find someone like that.”

“I guess I have a type.” He jokes slightly still enjoying the show. “Can beat me up seems to be a running trait.”

“Who else have you liked?” She is suddenly more interested.

Realizing that he had never told this Taiven. Not wanting to rehash something that he was over, something he’s even gotten closure on. He just gives a half asses statement. “Oh just a girl in our school. I’m over it now.”

“That red head? Or the green haired girl?” Taiven asks with growing interest.

“No, neither of them. Kopriva totally could beat me up or poisen me in my sleep.” Zorian jokes before giving her a sideways smile. “I think she's into women though.” Giving Taiven a nudge.

Before they can go further. Zach is calling out to her. Letting her know its time to rejoin practice.

She rolls her shoulders, giving them a good stretch while she says her goodbyes. Hoping off the bench to walk over.

One of the new recruits is steadily looking exhausted. He has since the start of the training. “How on earth do you expect us to get better if all your doing is beating us up!” He gasps out between breaths.

Zach tilts his head confused and then says. “The library?”

“What?” The guys mouth falls open as he stares breathing heavy at Zach.

“Yeah?” Zach snorts bemused. “I’ve been using like only forty spells total. You just have to look them up and try what you find to counter it.” He waves a hand dismissively.

Zach continues to explain. “These are the most common forty spells I've seen mages using. You will likely see niche things like what Zorian does or this cool orb thing I can do. For regular battle, these are seen a lot and I mean so often I actually remember some of their names.” He floats his legs up to sit cross legged in the air, waving his hands about dismissively.

“I hate you.” The guy gasps. “Why didn’t you tell us before.” He complains.

“It’s the library.” Zach deadpans. “Its the royal library at that. I just assumed you were slow learners.” He snarks watching the glares of his makeshift group.

Taiven was still striding over, Zorian was able to see her snickering, shoulders shaking as she contains it. It was the first thing she did after realizing Zach wasn’t using anything fancy. Overkill versions sure but nothing fancier then a few severing discs. She has immediately headed to the library at their school and tried to learn as much as she could.

Turning back to wave at Zorian, she spots him brushing off his pants lost in thought. “Are you heading back now?” she asks.

Snapping out of the haze Zorian blinks at her. “Yeah, I’m heading to the sea side today. Were putting the finishing touches on the gate there. I was just finishing some of the spell formula for it.”

“I see.” She nods blankly at him. “Have fun?”

Brightening Zorian smiles slightly at her. “You as well.” Before vanishing from his spot. Leaving the basket of snacks behind. She turns her attention back to the training. Zach getting everyone set up on different spots.

Taiven walks over to them, moving to stand where Zach points after spotting her. She watches him summon ten mud golems and has then stand across from each person. “Okay. Now fire magic missile at them in as many different ways till you run out of mana, then get your mana back and do it again.” He smiles widely at them all. When everyone but Taiven gives him a confused stare he claps his hands. “Get to it then. I want one hundred by the end of the month.”

The groans and complaints. A notable “Are you actually serious right now.” From the tired guy from earlier rings out. Zach just laughs at them. “Don’t worry. I’m going to be bringing in a friend to teach you how not to burn things with fire after everyone can do one hundred.”

Taiven immediately starts firing magic missiles. She knows who Zach is talking about and is now super excited for it. She will force everyone to get it or so help her god.

-

“There has been rumors of a army heading through the country side.” Zorian tells Xvim. They were sitting in his mentors office like normal. Chatting casually before Zorian felt it reasonable to bring up the topic.

Xvim paused in the middle of taking a sip of the camomile tea. A thin eyebrow raised at him. He took the time to lower his tea before asking. “Is it just a rumor?”

Unsurprised by the quick uptake. Zorian sighs. “No, its not.” He leans back, using magic to add another log to the fire. The cold of the stone room creeping in around then. Winter was even colder in Cyoria because of how northern it is. “I’ve been informed that in the lands between us and Falkrinea is becoming the spot for them to wait.”

“And people think they would fight in the dead of winter?” Xvim asks leaning back in his chair. “That would be a waste of resources.”

“No. The believe the count of the region is hosting them.” He explains. “Duke Vuković seems to be on the side of Falkrinea. When I was traveling in the past I heard rumors of a branch of shifter wolves. It didn't effect me for obvious reasons but Sudomir was reverse creating shifters.”

“And you believe that the region will be using that to fight?” Xvim sets his cup down getting up to head around his desk. Shuffling through leaflets and papers.

“It is a real concern yes.” He can imagine that using reverse shifters would be ideal. Already the winter wolves were difficult for non mages to handle. Even your average non combat mage would have issues with winter wolves. Zorian mentally remembers seeing the Silver One.

Watching as Xvim shuffles pages around be seems to finally spot the thing he was looking for. A bundle of pages that looked well used. Edges crinkled and Zorian can spot a few coffee stains on the edges.

“That could imply they will attack in the dead of winter.” Xvim muses. “That could be an issue. The cold and the environment would be hard to navigate.”

“There's a small town I planned to visit because of that issue.” Zorian tells him. Remembering the town that complained that by the time they sent word it would be impossible to travel to them in time. “Some of the outer villages have already been having yearly issues with winter wolves. Children and hunters going missing when they couldn’t call for help.”

“Another thing you learned in your travels?” His teacher inquires.

“Yeah. I had lived there for at least a year, trying to get silverlake and doing odd jobs around the area.” Zorian remembers the towns folks and how many small details he learned about the village in his stay. “If I was still the me before all this, I would have probably moved out there for a few years. Steady work for mages.” He admits. “My point is they are much more suited to winter warfare then the average mage.”

“I hate to agree but even so, what does that mean for us?”

“They have been banking on spring or summer warfare. Setting up defence's along the oceanside and not nearly as many inland.”

Xvim and him chatter about the fallout of the issue. Touching on what ifs and maybes before Xvim finally asks a question that Zorian wasn’t sure he could ask. “So. What do you need me to do?”

“What can’t just come by to talk about it?” Zorian asks trying to wait on his question. The look he got made him sigh. “Yeah, your right. I’m not here for tea or theory crafting.” He taps his foot and then barrels into the explanation of his plan.

-

With the impending war on the horizon, Zorian feels weird attending dinner that week. The meal was dramatic as always. With school back in, Fortov was taking the lions share of the conversation to tell their parents about his classes.

He doesn’t speak much. Listening to his siblings inform about their lives. Damien’s growing wedding plans for next spring, Kirielle's new friends, his parents giving their own anecdotes about the business. When it finally got around to Zorian's turn, he had no idea where to even start.

Luckily Zach was quick. “I’ve had my team training with shields lately.” He smiles widely before dropping the detail that makes everyone worried. “They need to be be better all things considered. The boulders aren't that big.”

He regail's the tale while Zorian watches contented. The first plan of the war was coming in the new week. As dinner was coming to a close, he finally spoke up. The plates were empty and the drink cups were nearly matching them.

Everyone was about to stand up to say goodnight when he talked. “I want you all to go with Damien to Koth.”

His mother looks startled out of her good mood for a second before she goes over his words. “Why?”

“There is a war coming in the next few months. Falkrinea plans to attack during winter and I don’t see them stopping if they make it past the capital.” He tells them all. Watching each and monitoring their mental states.

Normally he wouldn’t include Kirielle in this type of conversation. He would have liked to keep her out of it but realistically she should know. If not today she will find out anyway

His brother was the first to speak up. “And where will you go during this time?” Fortov asks him. Showing concern for him.

“I will be apart of the team fighting.” Zorian tells him honestly. Knowing that he wont abandon Zach during this time and can have simulacrums manage the logistics while he watches Zach’s back.

“Your not a combat mage.” Fortov states instead of asking. “Are you planning to get your self killed?”

His mother and father seem to agree with that assessment. None of them having seen him in battle and had reasonable concerns.

“No, I have many defence's. Damien and Zach can confirm, I will not be in any danger regardless of where I stand.” Zorian informs them trying to redirect to the original reason he brought this up.

“He’s right.” Damien admits quietly. “I’ve never seen anything like his contraptions. They held against everything that was thrown at us.” He had a contemplative expression on his face looking at Zorian.

“Yeah and that was on our budget.” Zach jokes with a casual air.

Damien scoffs breaking out of his musings. “What budget, You spent money like crazy.” He rolls his eyes before nudging Orissa. “Even the Taramatula's would have gone bankrupt at how much you spent in a single month.”

“Yeah!” Zach smiles widely. “And now we have the royal vault. It’s great!” He chipperly informs them. “Do you know how much they have dolled out in the last few months? The amount of jobs Zorian's projects alone have created could take up a few towns.” he boasts enjoying the spot light.

Cutting back into the conversation, Zorian taps his fingers on the table. “All of that aside. I want you to go to Koth.” He looks at his mother and father and then to Fortov. “You included.”

“What? You think the school wont be safe enough?” Fortov scoffs at him.

“I could take over that school in a single day. So yes. I don’t believe the school is safe enough.” Zorian informs him. “I’m going to be setting up golems to watch the major cities but if somehow I fall.” he trails off looking at his brother seriously. “I don’t want it to be in question that the family survived.”

“You don’t even like me.” Fortov grouches but seems to hesitate for once.

“No. I don’t like you.” Zorian blandly tells him. “But you are my brother and your loss would break my heart.” He tells him with a straight face.

Fortov cloaks on air completely startled at the statement. “I-” Fortov takes a moment before looking around.

“Before you get ideas of grandeur. No you can’t come with me.” Zorian continues a blank look. “You might last ten seconds against a adequate combat mage and less then that against what Zach and I will be up against.” He imagines how that would go. “You would probably be collateral damage actually not even the target.”

“God.” Fortov finally regains his breath. “Even when you’re being sentimental, you’re an asshole.” He glares at Zorian. “You could have left it at you care about me.”

“Did you want me to lie?” Zorian questions. “Don’t worry Fortov. The incineration beam will boil your insides and you will be dead before you actually feel it. Actually. Don’t worry anything that hits you will likely end it in seconds. You won’t need to worry about the slow agonizing march of death or having to blow your self up. You might even dodge a few times and feel confident in your last milliseconds.” He smiles snidely at his brother.

Fortov glares harder at him before asking. “Oh and you would know about blowing your self up? Right.”

Reaching into his shirt and ignoring the look of ‘Are you actually serious.’ from Zach. He grasps the necklace that he never managed to let himself take off. “Actually yes. Want to borrow it?” He doesn’t notice the looks of horror on his families face and the bewildered look Kirielle was glancing around at everyone in the room.

Zach reaches over and yanks the necklace off him. The chains popping at the back of his neck. “Why do you even still have this?!” He shrieks.

“What is that?” His father asks not looking like he will enjoy the answer.

Zach narrows his eyes deciding how to get rid of the necklace. Zorian was struggling against his other hand trying to get at it. Trying to slap Zach with one hand and fighting against Zach’s brute strength with the other.

“It’s a undetectable bomb!” Zorian cries trying to get it back. “Even the church couldn’t notice it! Give it back Zach!” He demands.

Fortov who was pissed off now looks horrified. “You just have that around your neck? Why the-”

“Because sometimes instant death is more preferred to something drawn out!” He tells everyone not paying attention to their reactions as much. “Zach come on!” He seethes unable to beat Zach in a battle of strength. Their magic clashing in the air and he still was loosing.

“Why did you even remake this?” Zach voices with the most blank voice Zorian's heard in years.

He stops struggling then and drops his arms. “I just couldn’t sleep okay?” He admits.

His mother is angry now too. “You need a suicide bomb around your neck to sleep?” she voices horrified and fuming. Damien was looking at him with a horrified expression as well. He knew about Zorian's bombs and understood.

“It’s more detailed then just a bomb.” Zorian grouches still upset that this went this way. “It has contingencies for if my mind is so deeply broken into that I can’t recover or my soul is tampered with at the same level.” He tells them arms now grabbing Zach's where it was holding his shoulder to keep him at a distance from his necklace.

“You’re telling me.” Cikan spoke slowly. “That you’ve used this before?”

“Yes! So I know it’s limitations quite well.” He informs looking put out.

“You killed yourself.” She intones blankly looking horrified. “How many times?”

There's a uncomfortable moment where Zorian actually needs to think about it and she just cries “Oh Gods beyond.” She's up and out of her chair before he can give a concrete answer. Kneeling down in front of his chair and hugging him close.

Fortov looks suitable horrified and scared by that point. He was glancing at Damien for any answer. The oldest Kazinski looked horrified as well. Almost more so then their mother. In their shock, Kirielle was also clambering over her chair to get to Zorian.

Orissa isn’t much better then the others but makes a snap shot choice to whisper something into Damien's ear before heading out the front door. She takes a second to look back at Zorian and Zach before shutting the door quietly.

Zorian pats his mother and sister on the back and then feels Damien also coming over to join in the group hug. He uses magic to make a hand like feeling since he ran out of hands. “It’s fine.” Zorian tells them.

“No!” His mother wails loudly. “This is anything but fine Zorian!”

The feeling of Damien nodding into the crown of his hair was a strange feeling but he got the impression he wasn’t moving for a while. Looking over his mothers head he see’s Fortov looking distraught. It wasn’t an expression he was used to seeing on his brothers face.

Zach was forming a gate and there was a smell of the ocean wafting into the room before he dropped the necklace into it. “We still need to talk about you all going to Koth.”

“Later.” Zach tells him. No one else in the family able to get the needed words out. Zach was more aware of their mortality then others so he wasn’t shocked just annoyed. “I can’t believe you’ve just been wearing that and in our bed no less.”

“I told you, It was hard to sleep.” He complained and got a tighter hug from his mother. If he was asked before the loops if her family cared about him. He may have said no. Even during the time loops, he would maybe have said Kirielle and Damien liked his company.

This outcome wasn’t something he foresaw. He waited for his family to relax more and let himself be dragged over to the couch. Zach taking a chair across from it while his family crowds in around him. His mother unwilling to let go of his hand. Her grip was bruising actually.

Cikan was the first to ask him anything once they had regained their stability. “Do you feel like dying a lot?” She delicately asks.

“What?” Zorian asks appalled by the idea. “I don’t want to die ever!” He feels there's been a deep and critical misunderstanding.

“Then why do you have that?” Kirielle asks from where she was latched on to him seated in his lap. Her voice was low and sedated.

“Ah well.” He trails off and doesn’t know how to explain.

Lucky for him, Zach always has him covered in social situations. “Because there are fates worse then dying.” He then continues with a glare at Zorian. “I don’t agree to wearing it, but I understand why you used too.”

Fortov who had been mostly silent since the quarrel turned this asked Zorian something. “Were you ever going to tell me?”

“Tell you what?” Zorian raises an eye brow.

“What ever it is that everyone in the room knows but me. Why you have a thing like that in the first place?” He gestures to everyone still slightly uncomfortable with the situation but wasn’t like his mother who still looked like she had learned the worse information in her life.

Shrugging best he can with Kirielle’s arms around his shoulders, he answers. “No, probably not.”

“I see.” Fortov looked mad but also upset. His eyes furrowing while he stared at Zorian. “Then I want to know now.”

“What?” Zorian blanks. “Why?”

“Because, You’re loss would break my heart too.” Fortov admits and looks away uncomfortable. His expression becoming difficult to read because of the amount of chemicals rushing around his brain.

“Ah.” He stalls unsure of where to even begin. “You aren’t the only one who does know. Father doesn’t either.”

“I am also in the mind to demand an explanation.” His father intones. Eyes dead as they meet his.

“I don’t know where to start.” He admits but under the weight of their eyes he starts. “It’s a long story you know.” His father gestures his his hand to say go on then. Zorian matches Zach's eyes for confirmation and permission. It’s not just his story so he waits for the mental push of acceptance before continuing.

The group is quiet as a mouse till he reaches the part of the story where he stopped going to school. Fortov cutting in with a annoyed and angry expression. “You forgot about me?!” He screams loudly. “I knew you hated me but isn't this too much Zorian?!” He looks at the others in the room before landing on Damien and then jerking back to Zorian. “How long before you saw Damien then?!”

“I uh-” He looks to Zach for help but gets a shake of the head in response and has to face his brothers ire to his admission. “A few more years?”

Damien was the one to cut in then but he looks gutted not angry. “You mentioned before but I never occurred to me all that you did before coming to me.” He looked blanketed in sorrow at the unraveling information. “How many times did you need to die before you asked for any of our help?” He looks over to Zach and Zorian see’s the calculations going through his head. “How many times did you ask for help before giving up?” He whispers.

Startled at being addressed he pauses and thinks about it. “Twenty years? Maybe ten? I don’t remember.” He smiles slightly trying to diffuse the situation. “I wasn’t in the same position as Zorian. My family is a faint memory now, the people I went to helped the best they could but given this was a angelic contract they couldn’t do anything.”

The group looks winded by his words. Zorian sends a mental thread over to him. Sending as much mental affection as he can.

“Is that why you and Zorian spend so much time attached at the hip?” Fortov asks more sedated now. His anger at his brother vanishing as the reality of their situation sinks in more.

“Oh yeah.” Zach tells them smiling broadly. “Knight in goth outfits that one.”

“I thought you were soulmates or something romantic like that.” Fortov admitted.

Zach looks over at him, eyes boreing into him before he responds. “We technically are soulmates. Our souls healed with parts of the others soul inside of each other.” Zach tells him. “From what we can tell it’s effected us but not in ways we can notice. Zorian might have more mana now, and I might be more inclined to mind magic now. It’s hard to tell.”

“It’s not as romantic as it sounds.” Zorian admits. “If it wasn’t for this, Me and Zach wouldn’t have anything to do with the other.” He feels a pain at the idea but knows that he will never experience that life.

Zach makes eye contact with him before saying. “In every other timeline we would be strangers but in this one. Zorian is the most important person in this life.” He states evenly, eyes softening the longer the keep eye contact.

Unable to do anything with the emotion he feels coming off of Zach, he turns back to Fortov. “In my defense. It was only a month and you never came looking for me either.” He jokes trying to get back on track.

“I avoid you at school.” Fortov answers blandly. “I probably had no way of knowing you were gone.”

“Well, you always pushed Ibery into the bush.”

“You know about that?!” Fortov blurts out and then realized something. “So. I would go searching for you at the end of the month. Find out my brothers gone and panic.” He realizes.

“Yeah probably.” Zorian jokes still shaken by the conviction he feels coming from Zach. “It was only a day. You were never in danger I think.”

“Aside from the school getting invaded?!” Fortov’s voice cracks under his exasperation. “I’m not even sure where to begin telling you that was fucked up.”

"Look i was dealing with more pressing issues. Can I carry on with my explanation now?” He snarks rolling his eyes at his brothers angry face. “I feel like you should have gotten the idea from my explanation so far there was a bit more at stake then this.”

“What about Kirielle?” Fortov bites. Glaring at Zorian. “How was she useful to this grand plan?”

Zach is the one to answer this. Smiling widely. “Kirielle was keeping us human.” He tells them broadly. “Did you know she attacked me when i met her the first time.”

“I did?” She asks astonished. “Why?”

“Cause I punched Zorian in the face. You immediately attacked me for it.” He smiles happily at her. “It was very funny to look back on. I thought you were funny since i met you. I still do.” He makes a illusion to show the memory. Showing her slapping him with her little hands. Frantically shouting at him for hurting her brother.

Cikan watches the scene and seems to come to a conclusion. She settles her grip on him. His hand being given a more affectionate grip.

Damien was the one to ask the next question. “It wasn’t all bad was it? You had enjoyable times?”

Both timelooper's blinked at him before Zach smiled widely. “Oh yeah.” The illusion shifts to the sight of a forest. The hydra barreling through the under growth as Zach fiddles with a blade. They watch as Zorian shouts at him to hurry up. Zorian dodging attack after attack. Heads after heads.

They see the scene shift before Zach was stabbing the back of the hydra and turning to look at a annoyed Zorian. The black haired boy standing there tapping his foot with his arms crossed. He looked annoyed at Zach looking up at him through his glasses. A venomous glare and a sneer on his face.

“I won that bet.”

Damien was the first to blurt out. “That was a bet? What was the bet?”

Zorian rolls his eyes and sneers. “The blade controls the hydra. Who ever could figure out how to make it work got to be the owner of her.” He shoots a look at Damien with all the condensation of the heavens. “He named her Princess.”

“Is that my daughter in law that Zach jokes about once?!” Andir startles watching the scene.

“Play the rest Zach?” Zorian smiles benignly. “Show them what happens next.”

Rolling his eyes Zach lets the illusion play out further. They watch as Zach's eyes flit to his feet and then the world spins and the realize. Zach tell off the hydra. They see his vision staring at the sky inspecting an injured arm.

“Here's my view of this.” Zorian conjures a illusion of his own. Showing them the scene of Zach wiggling on the ground in pain. Clutching his arm as Princess inspects him with a many worried heads. “So to answer. Yes, it wasn’t all bad.”

Cikan looked relieved until Zach’s next words were out of his mouth. “I also got to date who ever I wanted. Even got to try dating a few people at once.”

The rest of the night was spent recapping some of their adventures and Zach getting the ire of his mother for dating around. Even after admitting to her, he never went beyond a few kisses with them, she wasn’t willing to move on.

With a more firm understanding of the life they have lived, Zorian's necklace wasn’t forgotten but they understood better why he wore it. He wasn’t trying to kill himself, he was just being over prepared for situations they couldn’t even begin to understand. Hearing about it and getting small illusions to show things only gave them the emotions that hearing a odyssey would. They can’t even comprehend what experiencing it first hand would feel like.

Cikan was holding both Zach and Zorian at the front door. Damien had already teleported Fortov and Orissa back to Cyoria and Kirielle had been put to sleep, Zorian using mental magic to do so since she was thinking to much about what she learned.

“I’m sorry.”

“Mother it’s okay. You’ve never had anything to apologies for.” Zorian tried to tell her but she shakes her head.

“You were alone for a decade.” She pulls both of them tight against her. “That wasn’t because of the loops its because me and your father never made you feel like we would help you or be there for you.”

“It’s okay.” he whispers.

“Zach, I'm sorry to you as well.” She spoke into their ears. “I’m sorry you had to go through all this alone. I know I can’t do anything about the past but..” She trails off before letting them go to step back enough to look them both in the face. “You will always have a place here. If anything like this ever happens again, we will be there for you in what ever capacity we can be.” She tells them.

“Zorian.” She looks at him. “I’ll take everyone to Koth. We can’t help you in a fight but we can stay out of harms way and let you not need to use up you’re time worried about us.” She tells him looking at the two of them with sad eyes. “We will be here after the war is over. Even if the country is taken over.”

-

The preparations for the encounter were going well. They had a group of just under forty mages. Zorian actually didn’t think he would need them but better to be prepared.

“Okay everyone!” He calls out loudly. “Does everyone know the plan?”

Affirmations from all sides ring out.

The Gate would be opening soon. Oganj would not be blind sided. The royal family made an offer to him. A offer of allegiance to win against Falkrinea. Zorian was using this as a chance to fight dirty. Both parties would be protecting them selves but Zorian was banking on one thing making it easy for him.

The gate behind them was being opened by one of Zach simulacrums and his. Both headed to the area before hand. For what Zorian planned he wanted the magic to be a lot bigger then normal. A display to distract from the heart of his plan.

Xvim and Zach stood next to him when he got the signal. His simulacrum letting him know their ready. Oganj and his students were sitting in the agreed upon meet place. He already confirmed they were the real deal. He didn’t know if Oganj could make simulacrums but better safe then sorry. The markers showing that both the crown and palace orb were in sight. The orb made into a large earring hanging from the dragons ear and the crown sat neatly on the dragons head.

“Right.” Zorian says determined. “Remember the plan?” He sees a nod from Zach and Xvim. Given the go ahead he gets the Zach’s to connect using his magic to make a massive gate. Over doing it a lot. Making a long wide open maw form. Enough for the forty men to follow through in only two lines of twenty standing in a line.

They all walk forward. The march loud and in sync as all the soldiers step in unison into the portal to meet the dragons head on. The two smaller dragons flanking Oganj. Standing proud in the field. Large and dominating. Zorian wastes no time. He uses magic to send the proposal over to the dragon on a plane of force. The gate energy over powering everything else.

Behind him Xvim was forming his spell. Making the smallest gates that Zorian had ever seen. The three gates coming into reality quickly and the sight of stomach acid pouring out of them was enough. Xvim quickly sends the grenades into the gates before sealing them again.

“Ah its you. The disgraceful mage.” Oganj starts glaring down at him. “I wasn’t sure you would show you true body.” He snarls out. The flames wafting from his face in anger.

“I have no reason to hide my self away.” Zorian admits and then smiles. He casts a spell to make his voice heard at the distance between them. Casting it hundreds of feet.

Explosions many of them happen in quick succession. The stomachs of the dragons burst and Oganj’s eyes going wide. “Did you know? There's no never endings inside of the intestines. You can’t feel anything going in there.” Zorian smiles at him in a condemning way.

“You are a disgrace as a mage.” Oganj bites out. He knows he's dying. “I have never once hated a human as I have you.” He begins to cast a massive black hole like magic. Using up the remaining of his magical energy in a final attack. The other younger dragons already dispatched by the explosions. The heart getting hit by the shrapnel of the bombs exploding.

The black hole began revolving sucking everything around. The entire squad used magic to pin themselves to the ground. No one getting pulled in. Zorian smiles widely and say’s. “That's the other thing I needed from you.” And he throws a ball up at the blackhole. In a second the magic was gone and Oganj stared at him with eyes dimming. Hatred and anger being pushed out of him.

Zorian walks forward a snide expression on his face. “You know, I had this whole plan. How I was going to get Zach to distract you while me and a group of mages mage a gate to space. How I would collapse it on you and cut you in half with dimensional magic.” He admits watching the light fade from the dragons eyes. His innards flowing out of his body.

Using magic he summons the crown to his hand. “But see, I realized it had to much room for errors. The plan had holes all over. It would have been cool but I really only needed these back.” He admits. Using magic to yank the palace orb to him as well.

“Pleasure to have fought you.” Zorian tells him as a the dragons hatred filled eyes shut for the last time.

Zach wasn’t willing to risk it and a the moment Zorian took the palace orb back, he started casting. A large red and gold thunder bolt forming above his head. The color forming into a rose gold and then firing. Crackling was heard through out the field as Zach cast the spell. It hit the dragons body before engulfing it in a fire.

The being he fought over and over, dying to it over and over was not coming back. The body was burned to cinders. The fire blazing into the sky illuminating the day with a new sun. He didn’t stop till his mana began to dwindle. The field of grass burned black as the charred ground. Cracked and cragled ground was all that was left. Not even the bones remained.

Zach felt his breathing was heavy and just stared where the dragon stood. Something even the angle debated fighting was dead. A small lapse in attention was all it took. Zorian had spent weeks arranging everything including how much mana Zach would need to pour into the gate to mask Xvim's gates.

He gathered some of the strongest soldiers to make a good cover. Even made a a true contract just for show. Talked to lawyers and sent correspondence for the last week between them and the dragons group. All for this one strike.

The soldiers they had brought with them had been through the sprinter wars. They were older and more experienced, but even they looked shocked.

The field descended into silence before Zorian walked over to Zach and placed the crown on his head. Cheers erupted from the squad.

Zorian rolled his eyes and then looked to the palace orb. Step one complete.

Chapter Text

Things I planned to include in the next two chapters. Mostly small things that would have been added to but these were my drawing board pieces before I wrote the plot surrounding them. Kinda like check points that the story would follow along. I write by making them first and then creating the story around what I want to happen and figureing out how that would happen realistically like a puzzle. Its fun for me. I actually use a discord channel to store all this in so the sorting is a bit messy when not done properly.

❦

Plot piece one:

⦾ Zach hanging with Zorians mom.

Her: When did you realise you loved my son?

Him with a unhinged smile: I didn't. It just sort of fell into place while we were doing other things. One moment to the next.

I always found him interesting, even before he was a part of that whole shebang. He once made me drag him from his dorm room kicking and screaming and electrocuting me. It sounds more violent than it is.

Her: stares at him with a mix of yeah reasonable and what the actual hell.

❦

Plot piece two:

zorian searching for his glasses

zach laughing cause their right infront of him

have you seen my glasses

zorian their like right there

zach I need my glasses to see my glasses

panicked. omg I'm so sorry. rushes to get his glasses so he can see

❦

Plot piece three:

ask Zorian out of the blue why he likes him.

the comment form akoja still remaining with him

Zach just turning to zorian and speaking with out hesitation. "your everything to me."

after getting flustered and explaining how alone he's felt his whole life. People never getting closer then just there. Anytime he got close to someone it was gone before he could enjoy it.

Zorian being the first person to remain with him and put the level of effort that Zach tries to put into others back into him.

I could say it's one of your numerous qualities that makes you great but honestly.

I love you for choosing me. even against the power of God's you choose me.

❦

Unused arguement for Zorian and Fortov:

I would so care if you left!

YEAH? you never did before! every version of you never even sent out a search or letter to tell our parents.

you can't be blaming me for something I haven't done!

I'm blaming you for something you would have done!

❦

The final plot in an attempt of order. Sorry I had ideas but also setup that was in the last two chapters.

❦

Unused plot: Xvim finding out how far a post time loops Zorian goes to accomplish his goals.

“what have you done.” xvim asks in horror. looking over the blue prints before him.

Zorian wordlessly saves them in his mind. Setting the edge of them ablaze a second later.

"I did what I needed too. Call it selfish, I just don't have anyone I care about in Eldenmar."

"You would go this far for him?"

"Yes," zorian blankly looks to his mentor. "This is likely why the angels didn't find me suited to the time loops. I fit none of the criteria. The criteria likely was there to account for dangers like me."

Zorian had thought of it for nights and days. What truly set him and Zach apart. it was their lack of mana.

Zach could learn brutal and mind blowing magics. Zorian limited how me was invented and created to bridge the distance. Evidenced by his own growing list, such advancements grew faster and farther than traditional magics.

"I have no interest in the politics and world structure of this planet. I will protect what matters to me. You are welcome to evacuate anyone you wish."

"What If I stop you here." the man asks in vain.

"It would slow me down."

They remained in silence after that. Zorian feeling a gross building feeling. "I won't resort to it. The proof I will provide, and the threat will be enough."

Xvim stared at him still eyes unreadable.

"They won't lose a city for one arch mage. Even if he took on a dragon mage."

"You'd be willing to go this far for him?"

"I was tempted to wipe all the minds of Cyoria and beyond for him."

Eyes fading in their intensity. Xvim breath’s out. "Soul bonds are far greater than first assumed."

"You think this is because of a soul bond?"

"Maybe." Xvim sighs deeply. “It’s at least a reasonable assumption.”

"I guess it makes no difference to me. If you wish, I will see you at my workshop this afternoon."

"If the outcome allows me." the man despairs. Already accepting a devastating outcome.

Zorian sending up the rods to space. Readying them to fall if his magic disconnected. Rigging them to fall if tampered with or if he dies. Solar sail powering their status to keep the mana drain off him and his simulacrum now requiring oxygen to man it.

❦

⦾ When Zorian found out Zach was taken he invades the war room and using mind magic he removes people's abilities to scream. Cutting the connection in their brain that uses spoken language. (Something I figure you could do with mental manipulation. Just remove the idea you can speak verbally.)

⦾ In the middle of the nobles telling him what to do he casually says. “I've allways wondered if I could make someone forget they can breath or if it would naturally start again.” while looking over the maps they had on the table. His eyes glancing up to look at the loudest person to deny him.

⦾ Zach getting taken out in battle. The enemy requiring multiple high level mages to do so. They plan to use Zach as hostage for making Zorian pull back.

⦾ Zach breaks out sending the facility that be been housed in into a panic. Flames bursting through walls and Zach ascending into the sky in an explosion.

⦾ The only reason they caught him originally was they, Zach and Zorian, were trying not to kill anyone. With this last action, it ruined any notion Zach had about holding back.

⦾ Zorian sending an army of simulacrums to the front doors of the castle holding him. They try to lie and Zorian just blows up a mountain with a kinetic bomb. Dropping a titanium rod on it from 2000 feet up. The simulacrum there tasked with aiming the portal. Then they just drop the rod from the sky.

⦾ Agitated foot tapping making all the Gollum slowly tap their feet in unison. Until he has enough and everything goes silent. Raising a hand he readies them for attack.
Hand dropping like a guillotine as they still refuse to concede.

Finished text:

The battlefield felt crushing under the weight of the silence. Waiting out Zorians answer to the threats. The sound of gentle tapping resounds through the field. Gollum’s under his control and the controls of his simulcarums getting more and more agitated as he waits.

“You seriously expect me to believe that Zach isn’t being held behind your walls?” He deadpans. Voice transmitting across the field towards the enemy vanguard.

The leader of their army nods standing firm on the parapet. The flag staff in hand as he speaks gravely and in a condescending manner. “Look son. Are you sure you want to end up on the wrong side of history? All for a childhood sweetheart? This war is all but won. Turn back and we can over look this declaration.”

“So you are aware this is a historic moment? Then I will just need to make this a foot note in comparison won't I?” Zorian sneers. The tapping growing louder. The Gollums matching him blow for blow. “Let me make this quite clear. I will break down those walls to get him back.” The cacophonous noise of thousands of feet tapping becomes louder drowning out the sounds of war over the horizon. Something he was meant to be participating in not this act of violence.

“It’s to late.”

Zorian raises his hand to stop the man. “If you tell me he’s already dead, im stopping you there. I would know.”

The man grimaces and then changes tactics. “By my knowledge he will be dead within the hour. You even with your gollums will not make it in time.” The man starts brazenly talking onward. “This war will be decided soon, the boon that he was gifted will be given to our best mage who will end-”

The sound around the field cuts out. The man and his living army freeze under the sudden silence of it all. Even the fighting over the horizon is gone. Deafening after so much noise, it takes a minute to realize. They truly are hearing only the wind.

Zorian’s raised hand cuts through the air, slamming down like a guillotine and then all at once the simulacrums and Gollums begin their march.

Text Finished.

⦾ Eventually they get to the heart of the command, and they refuse to call off the war so zorian uses a last resort. Showing the power of kinetic missiles. Telling them killing him won't change the outcome, if they kill him the unstoppable force will fall.

⦾ Zach riding a train into the enemy Gollum mech, and fighting the giant Serpent alone. (there was going to be one of those divine dagger monsters under the enemies control.)

Partly finished text: In the midst of the fight. An explosion rang out from the large cathedral structure. Purple and red energy crashing out of it. Incinerating the rock and stone as it burst through it.

A figure rizing at the center mass of the structure. Theres a sonic boom as the energy blasts out. Zorian spots a few others sending spells at the figure. Concret not incinerated was lifted and thrown about like a whirl wind of force.

The offending mages caught in the onslaught as Zach emerges from the carnage.

For the first time since their separation. Zorian felt nauseously better. Zach was locked in a furious battle and winning. The ones not able to fight were fleeing through the streets below. Zach ignoring them entirely.

Text finished: Sorry

Unfinished text:

The gollums retreated as Zorian realised that it was not effective enough.
He mentally contacted the simulacrum that was standing in wait told to begin. They quickly the gate forming under the rod barely bigger then the nessary amount. no wasted mana.

The original body and the simulacrum working in tandem to unleash the attack. The tungsten rod dropped put of sight vanishing the gate with it.

No one on the battle field noticed at first. Cheering at their apparent victory as their perceived enemy retreated but shortly a red light was igniting the sky, streaking across it in a short arch. pieces if the rid broken off joining in the decent. The main body of the rod still intact.

The mages attempted to use magic to stop the force but it wasn’t magic in nature. The rod was equal in terms of throwing a rock. None of them had the power to prepare for the force.

As it descended the shields. The most common shields people practiced all the time did nothing. Like their exclusion of the ground they walk on. The tungsten rob went right past the barriers.

The enemy forces watched in awe then horror as it impacted the base. Stone and rock chucking and erupting from the ground in an explosion. the resulting wave of force fire and wind igniting the air as it mushroomed out.

After the smoke cleared and the devastation was truely seen. The enemy commander who refused at the start was standing and staring. His eyes not seeing what the light was now showing them. He heard a gun clack behind him. The simulacrum holding it to his head.

"I will ask again. Hand over Zach Noveda or the next strike will be your capital." the simulacrum that everyone assumed was the original Zorian stated calmly. In reality, Zorian was already heading to Zach’s location. Following their marker to him. His defence orb readied and waiting to stop any incoming damage.

Text finished:

⦾ Zorian simulacrums were also at the other locations. One in the seaside readying the gas. As morning broke and the mist flowed over the ocean. His simulacrum unleashed the gas bomb.

⦾ One in the valley. Only watching as the army fights the oncoming forces engage theirs. And one who's only objective was to stay hidden in Blantyre and wear the crown for mana regen.

⦾ Just to say fuck you to the other country, drops a saved bomb on their statue. Zach writing Imagine loosing in their front lawn with a laser and then them leaving. The entire time the kingdom army had to watch under the threat of further bombardment and an undead army of golems. Both Mrva 2.0 and Mrva 3.0 standing sentinel before the entire army disappears into the palace orb and vanishes. Zach and Zorian Teleporting away at nearly the same time.

⦾ After everything was over and Zach won his court case. He needed to get away for a while and went traveling. Zorian stayed behind and they sent letters to each other or just checked up on each other but both knew Zach needed time away.

⦾ Zach showing up after like a year of going off travelling. A massive cut on his side and him just going hey zorian love you hug me I want hugs and zorian going. bitch why did you take a year to say hi and then complaining while he cleans up the wound and the blood that’s now all over research documents. The documents were now a little vesty.

Chapter Text

From the front counter, Zach shouts over his shoulder. "Zorian! You have a new project. Madam Angelica has a request for utensils!" He smiles blindingly at the lady in front of him. Sending a small telepathic nudge at the other in case he was out of hearing range.

An older woman who had been frequenting the shop since their grand opening. She had requested many different items to make her older age manageable. Things like a bag that makes things weighless so she can do her own shopping. A featherlight broach that enchants her cloths to make any fall she takes non-lethal. An alert charm that when activated contacts her attendants.

She had also requested a few things that Zorian was in the middle of perfecting. Such as a device that monitors your health, gloves with a hand warming feature, or a golem that helps with the cleaning. The folks from the old age complex she lived came to request things from him, often after the first item. Zorian has had to get a lawyer who manages their patents. Kazinski-Noveda Workshop were getting a name for themselves.

That's well and good but Zorian was stumbling over getting the golem to clean hard to reach places, without making it taller. The lady specifically stated that she could no longer risk cleaning her bathrooms cabinets due to their height, or cleaning under the bed because it requires too much bending over.

It was a rather practical use of their abilities and gave them much needed objectives to learn more or fiddle with magic on that level again. Zorian had taken to it like a bee to honey. Zach enjoyed taking on requests from anyone who brought something to them. A unknown three-headed dog terrorizing travellers? Zach was there. A weird whirlpool with tentacles were attacking boats? Zach was all about it.

Each time bring home the corpses or ingredients for Zorian to use in their item requests. It was a good setup, a good partnership.

From the side room, Zorian enters wearing a set of bulky prescription goggles that make the dust cast clean spots around his eyes. For someone who commonly looks a bit mad magician. Zorian really looked the part as he pulled off his gloves. "Who is it? You usually just take the information and then pass it on." He asks his eyes not diverting from Zach for a few seconds as he enters.

The need to check each other for damage never went away even after being out of the loops for three years. Zorian still did a magical assessment of Zach each time they saw each other. It was over and done in seconds. Only a minor toe stubing.

"It's our best client. The one who comes up with all our greatest products." Zach takes a step to the side to show off Madam Angelica. "She's back with another bestseller I believe." There's a charming smile on Zach's face, and he talks in compliments.

"Oh don't be kind, I only ask you for help and you provide. It's all you two." She flutters a hand at him but is smiling happily at him.

"Oh Hello." Zorian greets in that happy but still unsocial way he perfected. Grabbing a clip board from the pile of papers, Different requests from different residents. They had been piling up due to the current struggles that Zorian was testing with. All of their clients knew that the items would get finished, but sometimes it would be a month.

"What can I help you with madam Angelica." Zorian ask's getting straight to work. Coming up to stand next to Zach, well within his personal space, their hips bumping once. He holds up his fountain pen, ready to take the notes for the ladies request.

The floppy in fashion hat was placed on the desk with her hands holding it delicately. She starts listing the problems and what she would like to get from the product. "It's not actually for me. One of my long time friends has been having such an issue with trying to eat food. With how shaky her dexterity is, its almost impossible to eat properly."

Theres a understanding hum from Zorian as he pens down the ideas he already has to making this work. A few things get scratched out by her next words. "I was hoping you boys might have a product that would make her still feel normal. In our age sometimes these things make you feel very reliant on the help of others." She brings up her hand to her face in a sad expression. One of sympathy and understanding.

"I can think of a few solutions. Theres some stabilizing magic that i’ve used for gyroscopes. Actually if I could put a mini..." He trails off taping the pen on his mouth as he thinks. Scetching out different designs. "Come back next weekend, Madam Angelica. I should have it finished by then."

Zorian distractedly walks off to the back room, not even bothering to shut the door behind him. This behavior gets a laugh out of the two people outfront. Zach who is very used to Zorian's idiosyncrasies, and Angelica who had seem him do this almost every time he had an idea about a project. "Well that is settled then. I will see you in a week then Mr Noveda. You both are lovely as always. Be sure to pass on my greetings to Kirielle." She gives a gentle nod before righting her hat and exiting the shop.

"I will, be safe Madam!" Zach's cheery voice calls after her. Returning to the paper's that he had been sorting prior to her arrival. Different requests that had the idea's for them completed but not the ingredients. Some of the product's people ask for took rare ingredients to make the magic work. Despite their work, money still wasn’t like it was in the timeloops. Alchemical and mechanical ingredients were expensive.

This what Zach found most interesting. Not that running the shop wasn't fun but they really didn't need too. After they finished schooling and Zach finalized all legal issues regarding his guardian. He took the manor and sold the lands. Unwilling to part with his family home.

You might think how do you take a manor? But Zach with Zorians help made a portable pocket dimension and placed it inside. Not a small orb as the amazing one they found. It was bigger entry. The side door wasn't actually a side door. The room behind it's entrance was actually down the hall, past the shops bathroom and breakroom. The door was the pocket dimension.

Leading into the manor's front entrance. With express permission the front entrance was made into a workshop for Zorian. From shop front to manor home. They had turned the smallest real estate option they could find on mainstreet. Into a functional home and shop.

There were rooms for them here of course, It was a manor home. They had what ever they wanted inside the building. The amount of wards that were layered into the shop was probably more then Alanics. Which was an achievement, If Zach ever went through the process of checking.

He finished sorting the documents and then walked to the front of the shop to turn the place the back soon sign on the front door. There was in small letters below, ring for assistance. If someone came into the shop, It wasn't like there was anything to steal from the three room building. The final door only opened to Zach, Zorian. They had sensors that told them when someone arrived and they would just get their friends when they arrived.

Blame it on the trust issues but it feels normal to only fully trust the one your soul bound too.

He walks into the workshop holding the stack of pages. Ready to be placed into their slots on the wall. "We have a few regions to go to soon. For the ingredients list."

Not even looking up from where he was tinkering with a spoon, Zorian asks. "You want to get missions for stuff to fight right?" He immediately knows what Zach wants. "I'm guessing you want to head to the council soon to get the assignments?" Zorian ask's before sticking out his tongue and narrowing his eyes at some tiny pieces of tech into the spoons hollowed core.

"Well yes. Actually some of them aren't know for dangerous creatures." Zach puts the idea out there as calmly as he can. "I figured we could you know. Go on vacation while we get the ingredients." He supplies the idea. Using a levitation spell to send all the paged into their correct spots.

Even under the flutter of pages, Zach hears the hum of thought that Zorian is putting into the idea. Zach decides to brighten the idea with rambling. "Look I know you have been enjoying this, but were not kids anymore even in body. I was really thinking we should spend some more time-"

"Sure."

"-Doing fun things in our prime. Were not going to be young-" He cuts off and whirls around to stare at Zorian. The brown of his eyes looking into the black of Zorians. "Wait really?"

Theres a touch of amusement on the others face. "Did you think I would say no? I just didn't know you wanted a no fighting vacation." Zorian has left the experiment alone to walk around the table hes working at. Sauntering over instead to a massive map on the wall. "Where were you thinking?"

Zach lights up immediately and is bounding over. "Well, I didn't think you would want a vacation. You were always content with what was going on." He steps into Zorian’s personal space putting pins onto spots that he knows the ingredients are but also places that had things for them to do. "These are the locations. There are some ingredients, rare ones but there also tourism in these cities."

Assessing the pin drops, Zorian hums. He reaches over and grabs a pin from Zach's hand and places on of his own. "This is a spot i’ve heard has a massive lion thats breathing fire at the civilians. It could be fun." Zorian bumps his hip against Zachs. "And because I am content. My sister is happy and in school, my friends are all nearby still but living good lives and I get to do what ever I want."

He gestures his head at the map and then continues. "And that includes vacationing. I just always saw our hunts as a vacation." He nods at the map and then exits Zach's personal space to go back to his table. "We still need to finish all these order's that aren't requiring rare items before we leave. Madam Angelica is coming back this weekend."

Groaning loudly Zach walks up behind Zorian slouching his arm's over the other mans body. Acting like a ragdoll that was possessed. "Ahh! But can we make simulacrums and make them do it while were gone?"

"No, but we can make them help us now as long as each gets to go into to town after. You remember our agreement." He smiles and doesn't bother nudging the other man off him. Zorian continues working on the spoon that seems oddly stable in his hands.

They feel someone entering the wards and Zach is up in a flash to greet the new person.

By the end of the week they had completed all available orders and had the notices for sent to the people requesting them. Zach was already packing when Zorian finished handing over the cutlery set to Madam Angelica. She was extremely impressed by how it was crafted. Kirielle helping with the design so it looked good while being functional.

"This is wonderful!" She looked starry eyed at the ornate metal fork that Zorian ensured would not spill the product when shook. "I'm always amazed at what you boys can come up with. You will likely have tons of orders for these by the end of tomorrow!"

Thats when he has the break the news to her. Like all the clients in the day she wasn't upset. "Actually, Zach and I are heading off again. This time for a vacation." He smiles at her. "We probably wont be back till the start of the summer." He informs her of the two month period they had worked out for their vacation. Setting aside as much time as they needed to also sleep in everyday and stay up at night with out issue.

"Oh you boys finally are setting time for your selves." She looks up from the fork to give a starry eyed expression to him. "Young love should be celebrated. I know you both have worked very hard the last few years with the shop, but I'm pleased you are still setting time aside for you both."

"Ah yes." Zorian mutters suddenly lost in the conversation. "I think that isn't the intention but thank you for your kindness." He finishes feeling awkward and unsure about this interaction.

Giving him a Knowing smile she initiates the process of paying for the products. At a extremely lowered rate since she brings in customers beyond her. After she wishes him a fun time with a wink as she leaves the building.

He turns the sign to closed as she goes, since she was the last on on the list for pickup. It not the first time someone has assumed that he and Zach were romantically inclined but Zorian even years later still doesn't know what to make of that situation. Honestly Zorian doesn't even know or see what it would change about them if they did put a title on it.

Their souls were forever intertwined, they spent years being the only person who understood the other, and given the years they experienced. Anyone who wanted to date him was either to young for him or too old for his body. Either they were the creep or he would need to be the creep. It wasn't like he was searching but there really wasn't an abundance of people he could see himself with.

He walks into the pocket dimension and up the stairs to their bedroom. Zach slept better when he knew Zorian was Zorian when he woke up again. The trauma of the original Zorian at the end of the loops hadn't left. Zorian wasn't actually sure it ever would. He still had issues as well.

Zach was dancing around the room. Levitating items in a dance into the suit case's. From the content's he could tell there was a sorting system but when the items were floating through the room he couldn't actually tell what it was.

"Having fun?" He asks entering the room. His suit cases laid out on his own bed unpacked. Zorian walked past them into his personal walk in closet. Getting started on at least a weeks worth of clean outfits. Some extra's for special occasions but only enough that he wouldn't run out before they need to be washed.

"Of course I am!" Zach cheers. "The first stop is a natural hot springs town. We will get to relax as much as we want and eat good food while doing it. Maybe even get to try out new to the market soaps and top of the line bathing." He list's standing in the middle of his item's dance with a hand on his hip and another on his chin.

The bouncy black hair on his head swaying with him as he excitedly nods to different things he thinks will be there. "There's also cave systems and theres events happening often in that area. Were traveling in spring so there should be some flower festivals and i bet!" He points his fingers up triumphantly. "Theres food or even magic showings that are going on!"

The others excitement was contagious, Zorian set about finishing his own packing. At a more sedate pace since he still didn't have magic to waste like Zach does. Taking time to pack all his guns and extra equipment.

Their luggage was going to be stored away in a expand trunk so he made sure to pack everything.

“Do you really need three sniper rifles?”

Zorian turns with a huff at that. “Well. What if we need simulacrums on guns. Its far better to be prepared.” he explains. Walking past Zach’s amused face to grab two hand guns that shot corrosive bullets.

“I think you look like you're preparing for war.” Zach jokes, items still magically sliding around them. Cloths folding and rune covered wands getting stored away.

“Like your better.” Zorian jokes. His own smug expression meeting the other mans. “You seem to be taking quite a few spell wands.” Zorian points at the small growing pile in the suit case. His other hand tightening a gun holster belt behind his back.

The belt gets too tight before the last notch. Zorian’s expression falters before looking down. “Ah. Well thats awkward.” He lowers his hand to loosen the belt. It was an older one he made soon after the time loops ended. “I think i've grown.” He admits using some magic to make a new notch near the end.

“Well. You are eating better now.” Zach smiles at him warmly. The final items falling into place before the top swings shut and seals with a glow. “You also have gotten taller but not much.”

The hand that comes up to show their now prominent height difference was quick ducked. Zorian glares at the offending appendage before strutting back to his own bags. “Yes well, not everyone gets Noveda genetics. Some of us get to be happy with what were stuck with.” He huffs.

Looking around their room for any last items. Zorian ignores the laughter while grabbing the final item. A multi pouch belt that he uses to sort ingredients and materials. Strapping it around his hips he finds this one is also not perfectly sized anymore. Not as far off as the previous one.

He throws on his sleeveless traveling cloak. One with multiple layers. All connected at his shoulders. The slits in the sides making accessing his pouches and guns easier. He had temperature runes and protection runes sewn through out the outfit. Even rain proofing on the outer layer. It was sinched slightly around his rib cage flaring out to cover the guns outlines.

“Oh well.” He mutters out. “Lets go get our region passes.”

Quickly, He throws on his traveling cloak. One with multiple layers. All connected at his shoulders. The slits in the sides making accessing his pouches and guns easier. He had temperature runes and protection runes sewn through out the outfit. Even rain proofing on the outer layer. It was sinched slightly around his rib cage flaring out to cover the guns outlines.

With Zach’s laughter fading out, They make their way to the government offices. They already have their passports and just need to get okayed for the regions they want to visit and why. The process is only slightly annoying.

Out of the time loop, they had to worry about such things. Such as illegally entering foreign nations. Zorian would have just gone there before. Given he was also a child with no real reputation, it wasn't an issue. Now he and Zach were known enough that they could be arrested for their actions and can’t just reset to get out of it.

After two hours of working with the office workers they had permissions for all the splinter states they planned to visit. Despite how boring the process was, and how tedious the process was, Zach talked their way into everything.

A charming smile on his face as the lady at the counter goes through all the paperwork with him. Zorian remained seated in the waiting room tinkering with a wand. It wasn’t a request but he heard a lady in the room complaining to her friend. Something about veins being hard to see for new nurses.

“because have you ever tried to get an IV in someone who has tiny collapsing veins and is coding an needs multiple IV lines? Well, I have-” she loudly proclaimed three seats down from him.

It sparked a sudden thought of his. Lightly biting his tongue as he controls a very small engraving. It was a series of runes made to target the veins in a body. It would illuminate them green if he gets it correct.

Just as Zach was walking over to him. He has it completed. Pointing the wand at his arm, he quickly sends a small amount of magic into his arm. “Yes!” He cries as his arm’s veins glow in his arm.

“Zorian? Whatcha doing over here?” Zach walks over with a small stack of papers hanging at his side.

“One second. We can head out afterwards.” He rolls his fingers in excitement. Walking over to the lady and her friend.

“Hi.” He holds out the spell wand. “This should help your problem. It illuminates veins. Sorry it illuminates all of them. The spell work to make it just get the big ones would be to much for something this size.”

He sheepishly shrugs and then realizes the lady is just staring at him. Zach bursts into laughter beside him, having followed along behind him. “Oh my god.” he lets out a huff of amusement. It doubles when the lady looks utterly bewildered between them both.

“I’m sorry? Do I know you?” She asked slowly. He can see her leaning towards her friend in fear.

Zorian feels bad and confirms. “No, I just over heard your problem and made this while I waited for him to finish.” He looks to the wand in his hand. “It lights up veins with a green glow. It should make it easier to find them.”

“Here let me show you.” He points the wand at his arm and channels a small amount of mana. His whole vascular system lights up with a green glow. “It gives no pain and just emit’s near infrared light that is captured and then amplified by the hemoglobin. I hope this helps.” Zorian explains the concept easily, smiling as though it was average.

Zorian holds it out to her as his glowing veins return to normal. Her expression has changed from fear to shock to awe. “That’s amazing.” She whispers. The girl looks at her friend before turning back and taking the wand slowly. She looks at a loss for words.

Without really knowing how to end the situation, Zorian just gives a half smile and then gets out. “Thank you for being a nurse. Its a really hard career. I have to go now.” And then he nods once to her and walks off.

Zach’s increasing laughter following as he leaves. The situation feeling embarrassing suddenly. Before he can get out the building, his arm is caught. Turning he spots the lady holding his arm.

“How can I repay you? This is amazing, I can’t even begin to state how much something like this will help. It’s just-” She cuts off and shakes her head. “Here.” She lets go of his arm to rummage through her purse. A business card was quickly pulled out. The name Emilia Lynn Cooper Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. “If you ever need something call me. I’ll fast track you to who ever you need.” She urgently states shoving the card into his hand.

With an awkward shrug, Zorian accepts the card and goes to say its okay when Zach cuts in. “If you have any other equipment requests let us know.” He’s holding out there business card. Kazinski-Noveda Workshop. “We wont be in town for two months but youre welcome to make requests. Let us know how the wand works out?” He smoothly talks and gives her a winning smile.

“Are you sure thats all?” She asks hesitantly. “I can pay for this now if you want.” She is reading the card now. Eyes going wide. “Noveda? Like Zachary Noveda?”

“It’s all okay.” Zorian finally speaks up again. Knowing that Zach doesn’t want to be held down by his last name anymore. “I was only killing time. If it works out you can get more made later. Please do let me know how the wand works out.” He puts a hand on Zachs arm and tries to smile at her before turning to leave again.

They get out the door and are walking to the train station when Zack laughs again. “I think you just got us a contract with the hospital.” He smiles warmly at Zorian. “Did I really leave you so long you had to break the medical system?” The man’s eyes crinkle the skin bending to make future laugh lines and isn't that amazing. They can get wrinkles now.

Zorian spends the entire way to the train station explaining how simple the problem was. Only looking over every so often to see Zach nodding along with a calm relaxed expression. Ranting about how much research he’s put into healing magics now that they don’t get a redo.

After finding a train that goes to their first location, Laramide, The hot spring town Zach was excited for and a hotspot for sulfur and volcanic ingredients that Zorian was looking for. He has a bunch of requests for items that need a heat source for. One basilisk egg sack, three fire salamanders medulla oblongata. He can think of other uses for the bodies but thats all he needs for the items. They had a request to handle a basilisk and the salamanders where small common creatures. Zorian wasn’t to worried about completing everything.

They catch the next train heading north and find a empty cabin to wait out in. Zorian finds his energy falling off immediately after they are settled into their seats. Leaning against Zach and feeling a blanket come over his shoulders, he feels his body start to drift off.

The last thing he hears is Zach saying. “I’ll wake you up when we arrive. Just sleep okay?” The gentle warmth that Zorian know’s Zach only has for him at this point. Maybe Neolu too but thats expected.

Completing all the back orders before they left kept him up for a the last two days. He even feels Zach’s magic going over them, reducing the light and sound of the compartment. Curling into the warmth he drifts fully into dream land.

Hours later. He wakes up to the morning sun shining in through the train windows and with Zach is shaking his shoulder lightly. Talking softly to him.

“Hey, we just arrived. Let’s head out.”

Zorian blinks a few times trying to force his eyes to quickly adapt to the bright sun outside. The enchantments Zach placed on the cabin were still active. He felt the magic as Zach took them down. As his eyes adjust to the light, he realizes why it was so bright.

There was a faint dusting of snow outside. The snow was faintly come down, flakes drifting back and forth in a dance. Zorian looks out over the mountain trees. Conifers as far as he can see with a small path in the trees.

Turning he see’s Zach holding their condensed luggage and calmly waiting for him. “Wanna go build a snow man?” He offers, swinging their stuff around like its charmed with a feather light and not nearly three hundred pounds.

Zorian holds in a laugh and just nods. That sounds fun if they do it right.

They exit the train into a resort town. The passengers, getting off with them, all looking ready for a weekend getaway. He spotted people from all over the continent. The view around them was lively. In the distance he sees a ski lift going up a near by mountain. The beginning blocked out by warm wooden buildings. Smoke coming from their chimney’s.

There was a smell of gingersnap in the air and the sound of bells being shook a few streets down.

“Oh! A visitor's center!” Zach cheers. Grabbing Zorian by the arm and dragging him over to the green and red stand. Garlands of fir branches lining the table that displayed multiple pamphlets and a colorful and artsy city map.

Zach starts pulling out the pamphlets to look closer at what they want. Their trunk set down as he walks all around the table. The employee watching with interest, waiting to be asked for anything.

“Zorian we have to go to this.” Zach is pointing at a event coming up the next day. Brewhalla Craft Beverage & Music Festival. “I know you do your thing. It just looks like so much fun.”

Feeling iffy about being in a large crowd Zorian is about to say no when Zach give him pleading eyes. “Fine, but we need to stop and relax anytime it gets to much.” Zorian gives in immediately. “I also want to go to the hot springs immediately after were done.”

With a elated expression on the others face, Zorian feels good about the next day. “It says here that the hot springs has a Coffee hotspring. Said to reduce fatigue and beautify skin.” He raises a eye brow with a rye smile on his face. “Wanna look prettier Zorian? This seems to think it can.”

Zorians face goes got at that. “What do you mean prettier. Why should I care about stuff like that.” He huffs turning away from the stand to look at the streets. They were just coming alive as the morning really got started.

With a snicker, Zach spoke confidently but not loudly. “Oh. Your right. You're plenty pretty already.” And Zorian feels his face get hotter. “You could benefit from reduced fatigue still. Glad it still can do something for you.” Zach steps closer to Zorian.

While both were distracted they didn’t notice till a man is falling next to their trunk. His hand wrapped around the handle still. The fellow is looking at the trunk with wide eyes and then to the pair.

“And what are you doing?” Zach asks looking amused at the mans suffering. “Couldn’t be trying to steal from us are you?” he carjoles the man easily. Taking a step forward.

“What do you even have in here?” The man stutters out. The attendant already calling security. “This thing weights a ton!” He raises his voice slightly in agitated fear.

“Oh just our stuff.” Zach reaches down to grab the mans arm and the trunks handle with his hands. The man watches in stunned horror as Zach effortlessly raises the trunk like its weightless.

The man tries to pull away multiple times. Failing each time the whole while screaming obscenities at Zach. Muttering under his breath, Zach states blandly. “Way to ruin the mood.”

Zorian watches the scene unfold with a bemused smile. Watching as Zach hands the man over to the two police officer’s and gives a small statement. The attendant giving her own statement directly after that matches Zach’s.

“Miss, wheres a good breakfast place from here?” Zach ask’s smiling charmingly at the woman.

“About two blocks up. It’s called the Muddy Water’s cafe.” She states after composing her self. The customer service smile back in place. “Enjoy the rest of your day.” She ends the conversation returning to her work station.

After giving a polite thanks. Zach is by Zorian again. “Let’s go get breakfast. The hotel doesn’t take check in’s till midday. We have an a few hours to kill.” Zach points out. Zorian nods his agreement, both quickly walking through the mountain village insearch of the restaurant.

As they walk, Zorian spots a small farmers market. “Want to go there after we eat?” The bright and fascinated smile that Zach gives is enough of an answer. The quick blabbery words after about all the gifts he’s gonna get their friends and family back home was also a good indication.

The morning ended up being a calm and relaxing event. Good food, Good sights and good company. They finally are just getting settled into the hotel room. A single room with a minifridge and a bathtub. No other luxuries. They didn't want to waste money on something better.

Zorian is finally pulling out there request forms for the area. They had a grand total of three the council was hiring them to deal with.

The basilisk that had been stopping a the easiest ski route. The one meant for beginners. It was a high priority and Zorian understood why.

A glacial behemoth in the area. Again Zorian just understood.

The final was twenty pounds of frost moss. The note on it was. Cannot touch heat at all. Will melt on contact with skin. Luckily Zorian knows how to harvest the plant. The only problem is. It was in zone infested with winter wolves.

Oh well. Zach can have a fun time beating stuff up while he harvest’s what they need. Zorian isn’t to worried. They will brief about the monster’s weakness’s before heading out to fight them.

“How do you feel about fighting the behemoth today? We probably can finish that one and then get some hot spring time in before sleeping.” Zorian calls out. Theres a small clatter in the bathroom before The raven haired man pop’s his head out the side of the door. Arm latched on to hold himself at an angle.

“We have to fight a behemoth?!” Zach’s excited expression tells him everything he needs to know.

With a sigh he ask’s. “Did you just grab a bunch of requests and then go yep good?” Zorian tries to not feel dread. What could stand up to zach? What could stand up to Zach and him together?

“Well my lovely soulmate.” Zach chirps all to amused. “I choose locations and asked the council secretary for the requests for those places.” His grin gets wider spotting the heavy red coming across Zorians face. The term despite being true, more true for them then most others. It was embarrassing.

“I see.” He grouches, already thinking of how this could go all wrong. “And im guessing you don’t want to check the other requests before going to those places?” Zorian inquires a eyebrow raised.

“Oh come on. It will be fun.” Zach pouts quickly seeing the expression on Zorians face was unhappy. He whisked back into the bathroom and added on. “We can take on almost everything with ease. Only a litch or dragon might be a challenge.”

“That is a fair point.” Zorian concedes. “Lets stop by the local government building and get a better instruction about where this monster was last seen.” He dreads the interaction but knows its necessary.

“Hmm. I think we should just head to the slopes.” Zach calls with a deceptive planning voice. “We can ask the ski lodge if we can’t spot it.”

Rolling his eyes, Zorian shrugs. “Okay. I’m guessing you also want to try skiing?”

“Hell yeah. Don’t you dude?”

“Maybe a little. We didn’t pack ski’s or the proper outfits.”

Zach coming out of the bathroom a smug smile on his face. “But ill bet the kind people of the slopes would have ski’s for the people exterminating the beast thats been so horrible and causing mass havoc!” Zach slides onto the bed, partly leaning on Zorian as he brings a hand up to swoon dramatically.

“Oh primordials, Zach get off.” He shoves at the other boy away. Shaking his head he goes about doing something. “I don't want to waste money on a single day trip.”

“We could take skiing trips more often?” Zach offers.

“You would rather spend a weekend skiing? Over fighting some unknown horror that has the Ikosian text books stumped?”

Zorian feels the tingle of welcome as he’s bantering. A brush against his mind that he readily greets. An Areanian colony was in the city. It’s not shocking but he still got distracted with answering.

It’s been a while since he learned rudimentary communication with them. Sending images and thought forms to state his business and how long her plans to stay.

The aerena in question had heard about him through the web. They were enthusiastic in their greeting.

Zorian only noticed how distracted this made him when Zach snapped his fingers infront of him. “Hey. Are we going any time soon?”

“Oh right. Let me ask if they know anything.” Zorian blinks before sending the question to his new acquaintance. The answer was quick. Multiple images of the things lair and some spottings the web had seen were with him.

“Good news.” Zorian stands up and walks to the door. “The aerena in the area have been watching the creature. They siad to reflect its vision at it.” He opens the door taking a step into the murky light of the hallway.

Zach is behind him in a second. Grabbing the room key on the way out. “Ah. Well that makes it easier. I haven’t fought blind before.” He seems to be excited for the prospect. A energetic tinge to his movements. “Why do they know where it is?”

“Apperently they used to enjoy watching the skiers, The bunny hills was where the most wipe outs happened.” He explains as they travel down the hallway. The odd feeling of the floor not being fully stable under his feet. “With it there the area was shut down. This web isn’t combative and can’t take it on.”

They round the corner, continuing through the hotel in a relaxed silence. It wasn’t till they reached the ski lift before Zach talked again. Rapid fire speaking about his plans and how he wants to try fighting the creature.

Zach cast’s a ongoing spell on their feet to walk easily on the snow. The moment they get off the life its obvious where they need to go. Signs and warnings all over the route they need to take.