Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Hi, my name is Claire.
I’m what you’d call the “protagonist” in this case. Got the tragic backstory, all that good stuff. Ya see, I was found in a place called the Overworld by a lady named Lady Claire (though her real name is Clarissa, don’t tell her I told you that). She found me in her world, a place where humans definitely shouldn’t be, and gave me to the only “human” she knew!
And his name is Technoblade. Yep. I know. It’s a looooong story that we’ll get into later.
But anyways, he taught me all sorts of warrior stuff and how to become the best fighter ever!
One day that Lady Claire came back, took me away to go to school and gave me a house to myself. Was it the smartest idea to give a 9-year-old a house to herself? No. But I did get a pretty good education.
She sent me to a world of straight up humans, but not regular humans. No. Humans with superpowers! You’ve got your well known boring stuff: super speed, x-ray vision, blah blah blah. Then you got your cooler stuff like plant manipulation, material summoning, or hypnotic energy. There’s tons of people who get powers and even are mixed of magic races like elves and sirens and stuff.
Unfortunately I fall into that poor 3% category that a human doesn’t get a power but who needs them anyways?!
Fast forward and the world falls apart due to a certain disease that kills everyone. While trapped in my backyard texting my super awesome bestie Vee, a thing hits me head. I see what it is and woah! Is that the Sheikah Slate from my favorite video game: The Legend of Zelda- Breath of the Wild?!! I was super ecstatic and; as a joke, put a picture up on my tv and turned the slate into the camera mode and took a “selfie” with the champions of the game— Mipha, Urbosa, Revali, Daruk.
AND THEN THEY CAME TO LIFE!!!
It was strange and unusual but I was excited! These are my idols! With this super power, I could take pics and summon anything or anyone!
So I did that.
I summoned friends all over, some not staying forever but it was nice.
But this recklessness was seen by Lady Claire, and gave me a guardian who would watch over me from doing stupid things: Alexandria Starlight, my personal dragon caretaker. She’s a strange mix if different dragon breeds, coming from a world called Pyrrhia. Alex isn’t the craziest or strictly at all, but she is scary. She’s like a puppy dog though.
Obviously with all these cool people come with arguments and stuff, and unfortunately it’s gotten me hurt, which is where I am now.
Dead.
Yep.
But hey, living life as a ghost for possibly all eternity? That’s… not so bad….
Right…?

Chapter Text

Claire

Id been speaking to my bedroom wall for a while now. This whole ghost thing sucked. I’m stuck with my corpse and I can’t go anywhere within a mile radius! This is the worst thing ever…
I glanced over to see my body quietly covered underneath my blankets. Wow, real smart guys.
Whilst in the middle of staring my bedroom door opens. I turn to see some faces I didn’t expect.
Ruvyzvat and Sarvenete.
Ruvyzvat, AKA Ruv, has pale white skin with 2 grey stripes running down his face, and he wears a grey Ushanka with black stripes on the ear flaps. He’s got a black eye patch with an unknown symbol so he’s only got 1 eye. He wears a a grey snow jacket with a black turtleneck underneath, black pants, and black snow boots. Sarv on the other hand wears this purple nun outfit, although it’s more of a plum color to me. She has a nun hat to go with her outfit, with 2 light pink crosses on the sides of her head. Her skin has 3 colors: a dark pink-purple color, white, and pink.
Despite their oddly strange appearances, they were pretty cool. I knew them for a while and Ruv is a piece of the reason why I’m dead now but… why are they even here? I watch as Sarv kneels in front of my bed and nudges Ruv to do the same.
I roll my eyes and laugh to myself, how silly!
Eventually they got up and left before my door was slammed open, and Ruv ran into whoever it was.

Ruv: Oof! Hey watch iiiii….
???: Sorry! I didn’t mean ttt…

Holy crap!! Lady Claire was here!
Lady Claire wore the outfit I’d always seen her in. She had her blue glasses on, contrasting her hazel eyes. Her brown hair was always sat on one side her her face, creating some sort of side part. She had a navy blue dress and a white jacket, alone with a pair of white stockings and brown boots.
The two held their words before going kismet and now were in some stare down. Despite being dead I could tell there was some weird tension between her and Ruv. They sort of just stared at each other, lost in a daze. She stared up at him and vice versa before she quickly apologized.

LC: My apologies! I didn’t expect anyone else to be in here…
Ruv: … i-it’s fine.

Ruv quickly rushed out, walking down the hallway as fast as he could. Lady Claire seemed dumbfounded before coming in some more into me room. Sarv, who had watched the entire thing with me, had turned around and was now standing next to my covered dead body before turning around to greet her.

Sarv: Ah, hello!
LC: Hello. Was that your um… friend back there?
Sarv: Oh Ruvyzvat? Yes. Sorry he’s a total grump! No matter how hard i try…

Sarv huffed, crossing her arms and pouring her face before loosing the pout and putting her hands together.

Sarv: But you got him to speak more words than usual! So interesting…!

Sarv was lost in thought for a moment, before she snapped out and spoke to Lady Claire once more.

Sarv: So! How did you know Claire? Did you face her off in a battle and become friends? Ooh! Did you have to convince her to stop asking your questions? Ooh! Are you-
LC: Oh, my. What interesting ideas, but uh… no i met her through uhh…. A family friend, eheh…

Sarv seemed a little disappointed but rubbed it off. I mean, she wasn’t wrong about how we met but if she told Sarv she knew me as a baby, then rumors would go around and well… we don’t need more of those!

Sarv: Ah well…. I see. I’ll… just leave you be then! See you around~!

Sarv walked out happily, closing the door. Now it was just me and the lady. She stared at my covered corpse before looking around at the mess of my room. Clothes and food wrapped tossed and scattered everywhere, my purple walls seeming more dull than usual. Everything was left in a certain place, making it feel… kinda sad.
She looked around before stopping, staring at where i was. I rolled me eyes. It’s not like she could see me.

LC: Claire? Is that you?
Me: What.

***

Lady Claire

I blinked in awe as i saw the floating child in front of me. Those dull green eyes, the messy brown hair, pale skin, her blue jacket and purple shirt with dark wash jeans: there was no doubt that was her.

Me: Your here? But how? They said you were dead!
Claire: I know right?! I mean, makes sense you’d see me, after all you do have those fancy schmancy powers.

I rolled her eyes as stuck out her tongue at me.

Me: Ah yes, those same powers I have used for the last 13 years to protect you, provide, and-
Claire: Yeah yeah yeah, I get it. But hey since your here I have like, a bajillion questions.
Me: Now hold on-

And before I could stop her, she started blabbing questions I couldn’t answer. Her continued attempts to ask me got to me, and I quickly slapped her, my hand going straight through her as she let out a cry and dissolved.

Me: Ahh! Claire?! Where did you go?! Wait come back!!

She disappeared before reappearing, her eyes closed before she opened them and looked confused.

Me: Are you okay?! I’m sorry I didn’t-
Claire: It kinda hurt. But not on my face. It hurt everywhere.
Me: I am so so sorry! I didn’t know that would happen! I’ve never dealt with ghosts before…
Claire: You owe me!

I sighed and gave her a look of sorrow. I did sort of owe her, but not just for that. If she knew everything, I’d owe her too much.

Me: Fine. What do you want?
Claire: Hmm, welllll, I want you the answer a question!
Me: Alright… go ahead…
Claire: What was that whole awkward scenario with you and Ruv earlier?
Me: Oh uhhhhh….

I felt funny inside when she brought that up. Those forbidden butterflies I’d never think I’d get to feel again rise up, and my face feels warm, and fuzzy. I blink myself out of this, clearing my throat.

Me: Oh ah, it was nothing. He just looked… familiar! That’s all.
Claire: Hmmm. Okay!

I sighed inside, glad she dismissed it so easily. She floated off to who knows where as I watched her phase through a wall, leaving me alone with my thoughts, and the distance sounds of hers.
This Ruv fellow… he makes me feel strange inside. Thinking about his makes my stomach explode, lit on fire with a match and creating millions of sparks.
I sigh and take off my glasses, rubbing my eyes. I put them back on before giving my temple a quick rub.

Me: Perhaps I should talk with Alex about this…

End.

Chapter Text

Lady Claire

After the events of yesterday, I decided once more to come to Claire’s home and speak with Alexandria. I not only had serval questions about the incident of Claire but… the things I was feeling too.
Knocking on the door, I was soon greeted by the face of Mipha, the Zora Champion of Hyrule. Seeing her made my heart jump, half out of fear but also half out of relief. I could hear the commotion inside and wasn’t too sure who would answer.

Me: Ah, Mipha. Hello.
Mipha: H-hello… Lady Claire… right? I saw you come by yesterday…
Me: Mhm. Is Alexandria home?
Mipha: Alexandria…? Oh, do you mean Alex?
Me: Oh yes, Alex. Yes, can I see her?
Mipha: Of course. Please… just be careful. There’s…. A small argument happening…

I nodded and as Mipha gestured me inside the home, i could hear the chaos coming from the living room, off to the right past the kitchen and coffee room. Anger and frustration were coming from over there as I walked past the dining room and kitchen, down the hallway past the rooms and bathroom before standing face-to-face with the last room at the end of the hallway, next to Claire’s.
I quietly open the door, peering in before closing it. There she was, Alexandria the dragon, sitting near a desk, writing something.
Alex was a medium sized dragon, built with a heavy and sturdy body with thick, colorful armored scales along curved horns, a slender, curved snout with amber colored eyes, and ruffs behind her ears. She had large wings, which were currently neatly tucked instead of spread out, allowing me to see her backside. Her barbed tail swished smooth and quietly as her wrote with her claws, medium sized and talons sharper than a knife. Unlike her usual bright colors of cyan, pinks, purples, and occasional greens and yellows, she was currently set to a deep purple and dark blue, with small colors of browns and dark greens.
I cleared my throat and she stopped writing, turning around to face me. When she turned and saw her, her tail swished happily and she made her way towards me, nuzzling her face into me side.

Me: Oof! Hello friend~!
Alex: Hello Clarissa. I missed you.
Me: Aww, I miss you too Alexandria.
Alex: I told you to call me Alex.

She let out a huff of smoke as she removed herself from my side, walking her way over to her bed, which she sat herself upon, kneading at it.

Alex: So. What are you up to? Got any questions? Need information? Updates?
Me: Ah well, yes I do have a few questions.

Alex nodded, letting out a ‘hmm’ before grabbing a pillow and tossing it to me.

Alex: Here. Something for you to sit and relax on.
Me: Ah. Thanks Alexan- I mean, Alex.

Her colors had changed, shifting over to blues, golds, and lavender. She kneaded at the bed before settling down. I placed the pillow onto the floor and sat down, crossing my legs over.

Alex: So. What’s wrong now?
Me: A-ah well, you always assume the worst, don’t you?
Alex: Mmm, yes. Because usually when your over here it means I’m in trouble for a mistake I didn’t make
Me: O-okay, you do have a point. But no, I’ve just got a few questions to ask of you.
Alex: Hmph.

She looked displeased at my response. Today she was clearly not in the mood, as her colors shifted once more, orange creeping into her scales.

Me: I promise to keep them short Alex. Just… a few questions to check in and a personal one.
Alex: Alright, hit me with them!

***

Alex answered me questions with easy and was now clearly irritated. I could feel how she was feeling, the air seemed more tight, and her colors shifting into oranges and emerald green.

Alex: Anything else…?
Me: One more thing…

Alex looked like she wanted to set me on fire right now. She huffed, smoke coming out of her nose.

Me: What do you know of that Ruvyzvat fellow?

Alex took a look of surprise. Her anger immediately disappeared, now replaced with curiosity and intrest. Colors shifted immediately from oranges and emerald, now to blues and yellows.

Alex: Ruvyzvat? Ruv? Him? What about him?
Me: W-well anything about him! I want to know more about that strange fellow.
Alex: Well… I don’t know much either. Only Claire knew all about him, since they were friends. All I know is he never speaks to anyone that Sarvente doesn’t trust, and is practically glued to her side.
Me: I see…
Alex: Why’d you want to know about him? Something you wanna tell meeeee~?

Alex tilted her head, looking at me with those adorable puppy eyes. Her tail wagged happily as her colors shifted into pinks and golds. The way she asked me that question made me stomach seem to drop, and my body get warm. I felt like any moment I might explode.

Me: I-it’s nothing really, just I saw him the other day, when I came over.
Alex: And?
Me: And what? That’s all I wanted to know…
Alex: Your lyinggggg~! Look at you! You’re turning as red as me when I’m angry! But I don’t think you’re angry~
Me: Eh? I-I’m not- Stop!

I covered my face from her, feeling how warm it was. My hands felt all tingly, like fireworks going off. Maybe it was the heat? After all it’s the beginning of summer, and the temperature is rising.

Alex: You’re blushing! You’re blushing! You- wait a damn minute…
Me: H-huh?

My mind panicked. What was Alex thinking? Did she think of me lesser than because of how I’m acting?! Am I considered weak and pathetic?! Oh no, what could she be thinking?!

Alex: You like him, don’t you?
Me: W-what? Like?! Well that’s a strong word, wouldn’t you say?
Alex: You like him and you don’t want to admit it.
Me: Me? Nooo. He’s a criminal. I have higher standards than that…
Alex: You like him and you don’t want to admit it, and you need my help.
Me: Haha, very funny Alex. Please knock it off.
Alex: You like him, you don’t want to admit it, you need my help, and you-
Me: Okay okay! Fine! Yes! Maybe I do!

I gasped in shock from what I said. Did I really say that? I covered my mouth. I felt my face warm up. Alex stared at me in shock. I hated this feeling. The feeling of a million fireworks going off in my stomach, the ickiness of feeling warm and drenched. I did not like these feelings at all. Is this what liking someone feels like?

Alex: Oh you’re not joking about it… Oh you’re serious….
Me: Damnit Alex, I don’t know what’s wrong with me…

I curled myself into a ball, my head in my knees and my arms wrapped around myself, keeping me in place. I closed my eyes, trying to think clearly but the occasional thought of Ruvyzvat kept popping in my mind.

Alex: Hey, there’s nothing wrong with you. You’re just… being human I suppose.
Me: But Alex you know that-
Alex: Yes but that doesn’t mean you loose the essence of being a human. You still feel. You still feel those emotions like anger and joy, and love is just one of them possibly rekindling.
Me: How are you so good at this? Good at understanding emotions?
Alex: Well, I do change colors based on my emotions. But, also when you’ve stayed around, well, those who can’t show emotion through colors like I can, you learn the other ways to identify them. And love is super obvious. Maybe not at first, but you have it written all over you.
Me: Great…

I got up, unraveling myself from my curled up form, standing up and brushing myself off. Alex jumped off the bed and nudged her face into my side.

Alex: Oh you’ll be alright. Who knows, feelings might be temporary.
Me: Maybe you’re right. I do hope so.

I reached out to the door handle to leave her room before I heard Alex flap her wings and clear her throat.

Me: Hm?
Alex: My payment? You know I’m a very busy dragon.
Me: Ah well…. Um… will a kiss on the forehead and a hug do?

Alex frowned. Clearly love, affection, and care was not a good enough gift. I let out a sigh, rubbing between my eyes before looking at her.

Me: Alright, what do you want?
Alex: Can you make me one of those fancy cakes again? Please?
Me: Alright alright. I’ll make you a cake. I’ll bring it tomorrow.
Alex: Thank you~

She once more nuzzled into my side, allowing me to leave her room, and the chaos-filled home. While walking down, I could help but wonder if Alex was right. Am I truly feeling love? I do truly trust Alex’s judgment. She’s never been wrong. But if she’s right…
Could I really love again?

End

Chapter Text

Lady Claire

I once more found myself on the doorstep of her home, staring at the familiar white double door. With one hand I knocked, making sure to be careful with the box in my hands.
The door opened and I was greeted my a woman this time — Urbosa, the Gerudo Champion of Hyrule. She was a tall woman with a slender, athletic figure with a muscular build, common among the Gerudo women since they were all warriors. Her tanned skin contrasts with her sea green, and very tired eyes, alone with her long scarlet red hair braided at the end. Instead of the expected Champions Garment, she was wearing common human clothes, a grey crop top and a pair of navy blue sweatpants. It all matched the tired motherly demeanor of her.

Urbosa: Ah, Lady Claire.
Me: Urbosa. How are you?
Urbosa: Good, good. Come in.

She gestured me inside, allowing me entry. As I walked in, the house was dead silent this time. No argument going on in the background. Just peace.

Urbosa: So, what’s the occasion?
Me: Oh? Oh! Just a gift for Alex. She wasn’t too happy with my visit yesterday, eheh.

Urbosa gave me a warm smile, rested a hand on my shoulder.

Urbosa: Ah yes well, Alex is doing a lot for us. She’s t been trying to… well, figure out our situation.
Me: I understand. She mentioned that too me yesterday. I can’t help but feel I might be at fault for all of this. Maybe… just maybe if I had come around more often I’d…
Urbosa: Hey…

I turned to look at her, her tired eyes filled with motherly warmth and kindness; something I hadn’t seen in a long, long time.

Urbosa: It isn’t your fault dear. Things just happen between people. Miscommunications. Well… we’ll figure it out. Together.
Me: Agreed… Thank you Urbosa.
Urbosa: Anytime dear. Now, you should go see Alex. Wouldn’t want to keep her waiting.

Urbosa gave me a smile before walking into the coffee room, then the living room. I myself walked past the rooms, once more heading down the end of the hallway. But as I walked I catch a glimpse into Claire’s room, her door cracked open. There I see Claire friends, Sarvente and Ruvyzvat, back in there.
I get those strange feelings again, shoving them down as far as I could, before quietly walking into her room. Sarvente and Ruvyzvat turned to see, with Sarv giving me a big smile and warm greeting.

Sarv: Hello again Lady Claire! Wonderful to see you!
Me: And to you as well Sarvente!
Sarv: Oh please, just call me Sarv! I don’t mind!
Me: Sarv. Interesting nickname. I like it.
Sarv: Thanks! Say, what do you have here?

Sarv had already jumped to her feet, looking at the box in my hands, hands clasped together in excitement as Ruv slowly got up, eyeing the box.

Me: Oh, just a cake for Alex’s troubles. She enjoys my cooking, but mostly my baking.
Ruv: You bake?
Me: Oh yes, I do actually. Quite often. You know, I used to bring desserts all the time whenever I visited Claire.

I saw Claire in the corner of my eye, gloating quietly as she drew closer to the box in my hands.

Ruv: What… kind of cake does a dragon like?
Me: Aha, well, Alex likes my moonberry cake, so that’s what I made her.
Sarv: Moonberry? Is that a special fruit here on this world?
Me: Ah, well. It’s a uh… very very rare fruit here! Yes, yes. I typically have such a hard time finding them but, Claire always had a hidden talent for finding such rare things such as those!

I shrugged it off nervously as I saw Claire give me a side glance of disapproval. As much as I would scold her, I couldn’t do so while the two were watching.

Sarv: Ah well, you know, me and Ruv like to bake as well!
Ruv: we do…?
Me: Oh! What do you make?
Sarv: I like to make anything that involves frosting! I always make it pink too! But on some occasions I’ll make a spice cake with a spicy cream cheese frosting!
Me: I see! Why spice?
Sarv: Oh well, little old Ruv here can’t handle too much sweetness!
Me: I see. Well, I’d love to try it one time.
Sarv: Agreed! We’d love to try your baking!
Ruv: We would..?

I chuckled before giving them a quick goodbye wave and heading into Alex’s room.
I open the door and see her quickly move, in a blink of an eye. She’s suddenly relaxing on her bed, looking at her claws. As if that didn’t make her any more suspicious.

Alex: Oh hello Clarissa! Ooh, what’s that you got there?

Her voice was filled with interest but she seemed too interested. I could hear the tone she was having with me, suspicious. In response I responded to her in a sarcastic tone, knowing that she already knew.

Me: Oooooh, I wonder what it issss!

I open the box to reveal the cake inside. It was a 2-tiered circle cake, a classic white as the base with moonberry frosting and some star sprinkles and abyss pearls on top.
Alex snatched the box, greedily digging in the box, snout and all. When she looked up at me, her face was covered in frosting and cake tidbits.

Me: You sure do like it, don’t you?
Alex: Of course I do. These people don’t feed me otherworldly desserts like this!

Alex continued to dig into her cake happily. I couldn’t blame her, some dessert are quite enjoyable.

Me: Well you enjoy that Alex, you deserve it.

Alex continued to eat away as I left the room and closed the door. I saw Sarvente and Ruvyzvat leave, already heading out the door, Claire following close. I caught up to them.

Me: Oh wait! Hold the door?
Sarv: Oh, of course!

Sarv was going to hold the door before Ruv held it open instead I was about to head out but Sarvente tugged at my jacket sleeve.

Me: Ah! Oh, what’s wrong?
Sarv: I’m sorry to bother but… would you… would you possibly be able to make us some treats?
Me: Treats? Oh, I wouldn’t mind. What… what did you have in mind?

Sarv looked hopeful, ready to speak before the quiet and cold voice of Ruvyzvat cut through.

Ruv: Cookies.
Me: Cookies? Y-yeah I can make those. But what kind…?
Ruv: Could you… make any?
Me: S-sure. I can do that. Yeah. I can make you lot some cookies.
Sarv: Eeeee! Thank you so much! Your amazing!

Sarvente tackled me into a hug, which was unexpected and slightly awkward. I gave her a simple pat on the back as she waltz out of the door with Ruv, a gleeful expression on her face and that serious and cold one on Ruvs.
I myself was about to leave but I heard Claire’s voice, clearly annoyed, chin through.

Claire: What is your deal? What are you playing at?
Me: Playing at? It’s nothing.

I close the door, turning to face the ghostly child in front of me. Her foot was tapping in a demanding way, arms crossed and her face serious.

Claire: I don’t get it. Why don’t you be honest about things? You have, and still, continue to lie to me. That’s not a great way to make friends by lying straight to them.
Me: I’m doing this for the greater good.
My greater good.
Claire: And what is that exactly?
Me: Being seen as normal! You see how the rest of them treat me! Ever since you blabbed your mouth off; they all treat me like… well not a normal person!!
Me: Well cause you aren’t!

I let out a huff of irritation as I felt my anger rising. I felt like any moment I would snap at this girl and just… drag her six feet under.
I took a deep breath, before looking at her again.

Me: Look, you’ve had it… mostly easy. You’ve got friends who, somewhat, respect you and care for you in such an intimate and human way. You should be grateful.
Claire: W-well I am! But-
Me: And… you’ve got people who treat you as family.
Claire: …
Me: I. Don’t get to have that. so please. Let them see me as what I am, as of now. We can figure out everything else, later.
I just want friends who will treat me like a human, Claire. Can’t you let me have this, please?

She looked a bit thrown off, slightly disgruntled, but also afraid. Perhaps I went too far mentioning family but she shook it off in a blink of an eye. She scoffed and still gave me an irritated look.

Claire: Fine. But only because I don’t want to die, again.
Me: Thank you.

She floated off and I exited the home, taking a deep breath once more.
As bad as I felt for her, I do wish she could understand my position. I love being the way treated I am now. But I wish I was treated with an ounce of humanity. She gets to have all those wonderful people in her life, who care for her, and treat her like family. Couldn’t I wish to have that as well? I have those bonds she has with people like Sarvente and Ruvyzvat…?
I just want to feel human again.
Is this too much to ask for?

Chapter Text

Claire

The last few days have been interesting. With Lady Claire coming over and being all “mysterious” and whatnot. Driving me up the walls. I mean, I get why she’d be like that but, I mean maybe if I mentioned Sarv has powers to, she’d be less afraid to be honest.
I heard a sudden loud clang coming from the living room. I floated across to go see the chaos of arguing in the living room between everyone. Mipha, Urbosa, Daruk, Chrom, and Roy.
Mipha was sitting on the furthest corner couch, holding Toon Link close. His big wide eyes watched in horror at the angry conversation while Mipha gently ran her hand through his golden blonde hair. Mipha wore one of my baggy shirts, and Toon Link wore a polo shirt with some shorts and his brown boots.
Daruk on the other hand was mumbling and grumbling with Urbosa. The Goron is super tall with white hair, mustache, and beard. He looks sort of like Santa. He wears the blue sash of the Champions over one shoulder, and multiple belts and wristbands, and today he took those belts and wristbands off, and he didn’t really fit into any human clothes, but I had been working on that. His skin is light brown, or I assume it is. Occasionally he looks orange at times. Urbosa wasn’t wearing her normal garments either. This time she wore a dark green crop top, a black shirt, and of course her iconic heels.
Roy was arguing with Chrom, who seemed to be leading the entire argument.
Roy had peachy skin, fire red hair, and deep blue eyes. Typically I’d see him wear his armor but not today. Instead he wore a graphic t-shirt that had a sunset on it, and a pair of beige jeans and blue tennis shoes. Of course, he also wore his signature blue headband. Chrom was slightly tanned on his arms but pale everywhere else. He has navy blue hair and light blue eyes. He wasn’t in his armor today either. Instead, he was wearing a white tank top with a loose Hawaiian shirt that had pink and blue flowers. He wore dark wash jeans and a pair of boots. Chrom suddenly had a burst of anger as he finally yelled out.

Chrom: We can’t do anything all because of this stupid bird!!
Roy: Chrom!
Chrom: Roy you know I’m right! If it wasn’t for him-
Mipha: Chrom please, we can’t just blame Revali for-
Daruk: Yeah! You can’t just blame him for all of this! You just can’t-
Urbosa: Daruk, calm down.
Daruk: I won’t! He’s blaming our friend! Saying it’s his fault for Claire’s death!

Oh, so that’s what this was about.
I knew they couldn’t see me but if they did, they’d see the awkward look on my face.
They had been arguing about that for a while now, and of course there was tension on who to blame for my untimely demise.

Chrom: But it was! If it wasn’t for his ego, we would still have her here!
Roy: But Chrom, it would not have matter anyways! Even if Claire hadn’t-
Daruk: If Claire hadn’t what?!
Roy: N-never mind…
Mipha: Maybe we should just, calm down and breathe-
Chrom: Oh so do you have any good reasons who’s to blame?!
Mipha: N-no. I’m not blaming anyone! I’m just-
Chrom: Shut it Mipha.
Urbosa: Hey! You do not speak to Mipha that way.

Urbosa stood up, clearly upset with Chroms tone towards Mipha. The tension was rising, about to boil over with one wrong move. I didn’t want to be around for whatever was next, so I headed over to Alex’s room.
Going through thw door I saw her frustrated at her desk. She was mixed with dark reds and browns, and the occasional black scales. She didn’t seem to happy at the moment.
I made my way over to see what she was writing. A letter. Alex had very fancy handwriting, so thin that I couldn’t make it out all the way.

Me: Does that say… my name? Or am I crazy? Wait, does it say Lady Claire? Agh! Alex I can’t read your handwriting!

I huffed and left Alex to her writing. I looked around her room. It was usually messy, stacked with piles of books and papers, but it felt more messy than usual. Tom’s of crumbled up papers, books stacked and scattered everywhere, even the things she had framed such as the map of her home were slanted ever-so slightly. It wasn’t like her to be this disorganized.
I heard Alex huff at the distant yelling before she suddenly got up and walked through me, opening the door and going down the hallway, her talons clicking again the hardwood floor. I quietly followed behind her as her scaled flared up, colors changing too full on black with oranges and red.
Now in the living room, everyone had broke out into full arguing. Alex got onto her hind legs and flapped her wings out before letting out her rage.

Alex: ENOUGH OF THIS!!

Everyone. went silent as they stared at Alex. She went back onto all claws, her wings still out to assert her dominance.

Alex: I’m tired of your crap! I can hear you, arguing and arguing! Look, I get it you guys, we’re upset, and we’re mad, and we want to blame someone for what’s happened. But you just can’t. What happened, happened. We can’t fix it. Your constant yelling and arguing won’t bring her back!

Everyone looked away from Alex, knowing she was right. Mipha looked down at Toon Link, who was hiding further into her, Daruk looked down, scratching his head. Urbosa looked into the mantle of the fireplace, Chrom glanced away from everyone, and Roy looked down at his feet.

Alex: Look, you know what? If you want to feel better about yourselves and what happened, start by apologizing to one another, and clean yourselves up. This place is a nightmare of a mess.

Alex closed her wings and walked away, back to her room. Everybody started to mumble and apologize to each other as they started to get up and clean the place.

Daruk: Y’know… maybe you are right Chrom.
Chrom: Pardon?
Daruk: I dunno… maybe… maybe it was sort of his fault…
Urbosa: It’s all our fault for not keeping him in check Daruk.
Roy: Of course, but it’s not like we’d be able to stop him anyways.
Mipha: As right as you are, we could have still stopped him…
Urbosa: We could have. But you know him and his feelings, he’s-
Chrom: Fragile? Weak? Egotistical?
Daruk: Kinda far don’t ya think?
Chrom: You know I’m right though.

They continue to clean up my home, talking with each other over what had happened.
As much as I would like to admit that it was his fault, it was partly my fault as well…
I didn’t really take into consideration about how he felt and I just did what I wanted. He got upset and well…
I put that thought off to the side, leaving and going back to my room. I walk through the door and slump down onto my carpet floor. I hear them off in the distance cleaning and talking to one another.
I sit alone in my room.
I don’t want to be a ghost anymore, I feel guilty now. Leaving my friends behind… not evening saying goodbye.
They weren’t bad, no not at all, in fact, they were probably the nicest people to me. Though, I was all alone in the end. Not even tie people here treated me kindly, well, besides Vee but I never see her anymore.
I can’t help but feel terrible for everyone. But I’m sure they can take care of themselves right?
I hope they do.

Chapter Text

Claire

I’d been watching the past 15 minutes of Sarv, Ruv, and Lady Claire eat cookies in the guest bedroom. The guest bedroom was pretty barren, the seafoam green walls empty minus for one picture frame, and the only things being in that room were a blowup bed, and the hidden compartment to the basement.
The three were sitting on a bright pink picnic blanket that Sarv had brought and were feasting on desserts! Without me!
At least they had to decency to do it in the other room.

Sarv: Mm! These cookies are delicious! How’d you make these?
LC: Ah well, I made the cookie dough from scratch and just… let them rest for a while before baking them. I would’ve made my own frosting but, I just got one of those, frosting in the cans, and put color into it.
Sarv: Mm! I get it! I think these taste amazing! What about you Ruv?
Ruv: …

He stayed silent, examining the cookie th entire time they had been talking. Ruv doesn’t eat sweets but he had asked Sarv to ask Lady Claire to make these sooooo, I don’t know why he wasn’t eating them.

Sarv: So, Lady Claire. I never got to ask you… what do you do for a living?
LC: Huh?
Sarv: What do you do? Do you have like, a job?
LC: O-oh haha.. I uhm… well…

She started to get nervous. Oh, if they knew her job it would be ssooo over. They they’d all know the truth and then “friendship over”! It was killing me about her not being honest with them. Although I am deceitful myself~.

LC: A-ag well, I’ve got many jobs! Y-you know, like taking care of Claire and all that. Typically I’d come around every other week or so to check in on her, make sure she’s doing okay.
Sarv: That’s sweet. So, you just watch after her?
LC: Mhm! Make sure she doesn’t get into trouble or anything.
Ruv: You don’t do that often, do you?
LC: Pardon?
Ruv: She found us. Were you not watching her then?
LC: Eheheh… well, I mean… it’s only inevitable she goes and does sneaky stuff behind everyone’s backs.
Ruv: Hm. I like that about her. Makes her an interesting child.
Sarv: Oh yes, it really does! So chaotic, but with a charm to it!

As much as I liked hearing people talk about me, it was starting to get on my nerves. Out of frustration I hit the wall, maybe hoping I had awesome ghost powers or something.
It seemed to work as the wall I hit had a picture frame of the ocean, which came crashing down and shattering.

Me: Oops.
Sarv: Aah! What was that?!
LC: The picture just fell… how weird.
Sarv: Oh! That startled me, haha!
Ruv: … it’s just a picture frame.

Ruv helped clean up the glass that fell from the frame, and they continued to chat, Lady Claire steering the conversation away every single time whenever Sarv asked a personal question, or a touchy subject.
Besides that, I noticed Ruv seemed to be listening intently. I couldn’t see what was in his eye, but it sure was something at he watched their conversations.

***

The time seemed endless as they went on and on and on. I was still here, just wanting to hear everything they talked about. As of now, they were talking about their favorite pastimes to do.

Sarv: And what about you?
LC: Ah well, if I’m not to busy I like to play those video games Claire constantly would tell me about. She got me hooked onto this one game called ‘Animal Crossing’
Sarv: Animal Crossing? Ruv, don’t you have that game?
Ruv: … yes but it was dumb.
Sarv: What do you mean?
Ruv: I thought you would cross the animals. You know… fight them.
LC: Now that sounds like an interesting concept! A game where you fight animals…
Sarv: It does sound a bit cruel.

I rolled my eyes at that idea. Ruv always had such a thing for violence. I mean, he is a criminal after all…

LC: Well, maybe you’d like to play with me one day?
Ruv: Huh?
LC: I mean play Animal Crossing. You could come to my island and… take my flowers and fruit. O-or you don’t have to.
Ruv: I.. sure. I’d like that.

Lady Claire had the biggest smile on her face. I can’t help but admit, seeing her happy brought some joy. Ruv seemed to be relishing her smile, as he didn’t seem to look away.
I couldn’t help but feel a little jealous. Seeing the three of them bind and get along oh-so-well. But then again, maybe it’s easier for adults to understand each other rather than a teenager and several adults, in a way.
I floated away from their conversation, uninterested in hearing the 3 talk about Animal Crossing. It made me sad to think I never got to finish my own island. I however down the hallway before heading into my own room. I heard them having a jolly good time through the ever thin walls.
Oh to be alive again…

***

Lady Claire

We soon had to all go, our lives needing to continue. The cookies I had brought were all gone, completely devoured. I didn’t mind it one bit however, it was nice to know that some people enjoyed me cooking for a change, and were honest about it.

Sarv: I quite enjoyed this. What about you Ruv?
Ruv: Hm? Yeah.
Me: I as well. I think we should do these often. It’s a nice breather from all the stress I’ve been dealing with.
Sarv: Stress? About what?
Me: Ah well, I am a very busy woman and all so.
Ruv: If you’d like, we could make dessert next time.
Me: Oh! You’d do that? I mean, I can make something but-
Ruv: No. Let us make it next time. Only fair.
Me: O-oh well I mean… I can’t really say no, can I?

I let out an awkward giggle as we got up to leave, I being the last one to go.
Today felt nice. Calmer than the other days I’ve been facing as of late. I really did enjoy these quiet moments that we had together. Learning more about Sarvente and Ruvyzvat, was a whole journey itself! Such interesting people with unique and interesting lives. Perhaps we will make a great friend group. And maybe… just maybe…
I shake my head, pushing that thought to the side as I pack all my stuff together, starting to head out.
As I begin to leave, I wonder to myself…
Am I making the right choice? Am I doing myself and them a favor by lying about who I really am?
I hope not.

Chapter Text

Lady Claire

I entered the snow-filled church. How did Sarvente and Ruvyzvat live in such a place?! It seemed to be shattered into ruins, the white marble pillars collapsed. I was in their world now.
I was warned it would be cold, so I dressed for the occasion. I wore a white sweater over a navy blue long sleeve, a pair of jeans, a navy blue beanie, and my brown boots. My boots weren’t made for the snow, but didn’t seem to have a problem with it. The snow looked so soft and fluffy.
I didnt want to be here, not to hate on their world or anything, it really does seem lovely. But it was either my house or theirs to play our video games together, and well getting to my home was more complicated than one might expect.
I wandered around noticed the ruined and empty pews. I called out but nobody came. I soon found myself at the altar. I looked around before sitting down on the step in front of it. I had brought my Nintendo Switch with me, carrying its case around.
Sarv had wanted to play Animal Crossing with everyone together, and blindly I agreed. I didn’t realize that she wanted me to come to her world.
I sat in silence, hearing the quiet chirps of birds outside, and the sound of the breeze flowing by. I closed my eyes before I could feel a larger warmth sit next to me.
I opened my eyes and saw Ruvyzvat sitting next to me.

Me: Oh! Hello.
Ruv: Hey. Follow.
Me: Okay…?

He got up and I followed behind him, watching as he walked into the wall before disappearing. I stopped dead in my tracks. Did he just… walk through a wall? His had popped out as he reached out his hand.

Ruv: Don’t be scared.
Me: O-oh, I’m not scared. Just confused…

I grabbed his hand as I let out a cry as Ruvyzvat dragged me forward through the wall. His hand was rather soft than I had expected. I blinked a couple times before realizing that I was now in a warm cozy living room, a beat down couch with a large television and a pink fuzzy carpet in the middle, where Sarvente was sitting. Behind the living room was a wooden counter to the kitchen, where there were fairy lights keeping the room bright. There was a distance hallway next to the kitchen, leading down to some doors I couldn’t quite see. There were paintings and LED lights all over the home, lighting up the place.

Me: Wow. Such a cozy little place. You live here?
Sarv: Mhm! It’s our private little getaway! Ruv actually found this room.
Me: Oh? How so?
Sarv: He leaned against the wall and fell in!
Me: That must’ve been a surprise!
Ruv: Mhm.

I decided to sit next to Sarvente on the carpet as Ruv threw himself onto the couch. I ran my hands through the carpet as I saw the television display Animal Crossing: New Horizons on the screen, which was Ruvzyvat. I had a carry-on bag for my Nintendo Switch, which I took out. Sarvente already had hers taken out. I took it out of the bag and began to boot up the game.

***

I was currently screaming as I made my little character run far away from Ruvyzvat character, who was running around with an axe. I knew you couldn’t get hurt in this game, after all, it’s family friendly. But seeing his little character pop out with an axe, it’s slightly terrifying. Sarvente was also chasing me, meaning I was double teamed.
I ran for the airport, successfully getting inside and flying away, giggling deviously.

Sarv: She got away!
Ruv: Damn it!
Me: Teehee! Sorry! But man, that was quite fun!
Sarv: Mhm!
Ruv: Heh, I like chasing people with axes.
Me: You sure do, huh?
Sarv: Ah well, you must be going soon, right?
Me: Unfortunately so. I’ve got to go check up in everyone, make sure they’re okay.
Ruv: Why do you do that?
Me: Hm?
Ruv: Why do you go see those people?

I glanced away awkwardly. What do I say? ‘Oh, I have no friends so I try to talk with them!’ ‘Oh, actually, they live in fear of me so I go to reassure them that I’m not scary!’
I thought of a decent lie to tell, clearly my throat and getting rid of my nervousness.

Me: I just want to make sure they’re alright after everything. I worry for them.
Sarv: That’s so sweet of you.
Ruv: Hm.
Sarv: So, guess you’ll be going them?
Me: Oh yes. It was nice playing with you all.

I got up and brushed myself off. I looked for the way out but I wasn’t to sure since after I can in via a magical wall. I turned around to face them, slightly embarrassed.

Me: Can you uhh… help me get out?
Ruv: Mhm. Follow.

He held out his hand once more which I took. The tips of his fingers were rough and calloused, but the palm of his hand was soft. His entire hand was warmer than earlier. He took me through the wall and suddenly we were back in the church, but instead of it being ruined and filled with snow, it was all neat and clean, no longer in ruin.
The walls that had a previous blue-purple tint to it now had a light pink tint to it. The pews organized, pillars fixed upright and straight, the roof fixed with chandeliers hanging above; the church no longer filled with snow.
I stared and blinked it awe. The once now ruined church, perfectly fixed.

Me: A-agh b-Buh pfft, how?!
Ruv: It’s strange isn’t it?
Me: How?! It was ruined a-and now it’s fixed?! It’s impossible unless it was-
Ruv: Magic?
Me: Y-yes! Magic!
Ruv: Sarvente always said there was something magical about this place.
Me: Clearly. You can almost feel it in the air.
Ruv: Is that so? Hm. Magic works in strange ways, doesn’t it?
Me: Mhm… it does…

I was clearly in awe of this. It was so magical, ruined to perfection. Clearly this must be normal since Ruvyzvat and Sarvente have seen his on occasion. Magic works in wondrous ways.

Me: Guess I should be heading off now.
Ruv: …
Me: …
Ruv: …
Me: My hand?
Ruv: Huh? Oh, sorry.

He let go of my hand, bringing it to hide into his jacket pocket. He walked away heading back into the wall and disappearing once more.
Today was nice. A good time with those two, hidden in a church filled with wonderful and peaceful magic.
Maybe it wasn’t a bad idea to come visit her after all. Seems like it was all worthwhile.

Chapter Text

Claire

I watched as everyone sat around the couches, staring anxiously as Lady Claire and Alex took the middle. Alex looked tired, yet serious all while Lady Claire looked lost in thought, focused on whatever she was planning on saying to the group.
I myself was hovering behind them, staring at my friends who all looked anxious in these two’s presence.

LC: Look, I know that it’s been hard lately, for all of you. I know that… you may not be feeling the best, but that’s the reason why we’re here.
Alex: I’ve decided that we need the time to stop and process for the moment. To, let the realization sink in that she’s gone.

Oh great, it’s an intervention. I know it probably was hard on them but, I mean, it was gonna happen at some point. Lady Claire took in a breath, continuing to speak.

LC: I also wanted to say that, it’s no one’s fault. Don’t blame yourself or others for what happened. Nothing could’ve stopped it from happening.
Mipha: But we could’ve-
Alex: Mipha, you know we wouldn’t have been able to stop him. I understand you try to see the good in him, but sometimes he’s-
LC: He’s a bit much. I don’t know what she had seen in that bird.
Chrom: Claire sees a lot of things that we just don’t understand.
Roy: Indeed, but what does she see in Revali?
Alex: That’s why I was brought here. She all brought you here for a reason with the Sheikah Slate. I was brought here to analyze why.
LC: That’s right. She brought you all here for a reason, so she has a trust in you. So I myself am placing my trust in you all as well.
Urboss: What for, if I may?

Alex glanced at Lady Claire who was fidgeting nervously with her hands before once more, clearing her voice.

LC: We… may have a way to bring her back.
Mipha: Really?!
Alex: Mhm. But it’s a very long and tedious process, and we were hoping that maybe…
LC: You all would be able to help.
Daruk: Well of course we would!
Urbosa: Anything to get our girl back.

I could help but blush a little, knowing that they really did care. It was nice to see them show a concern for me. I could help but watch some more, sitting on my personal couch chair, which was empty now.

LC: There is also another thing.
Roy: What is it?
LC: We do have to bring her back before August. She has to go back to school, and we don’t have much time, the summer is almost over.
Chrom: Oh that’s right.
Mipha: Oh my… back to school… oh Hylia…
Alex: Mipha, don’t worry about all the shopping, that’s something for later.
LC: Hmph. There is one last thing.

Everyone seemed to lean in, paying close attention to her next words.

LC: We… we um…
Alex: We gotta find the stupid blue bird.

Everyone shifted awkwardly. They glanced away or looked at the floor. I could see they didn’t like the idea of finding Revali, but unfortunately it seems like they didn’t have a choice.

LC: He can’t be too far.
Alex: And I doubt he’d go to other worlds.
LC: But I have asked some of Claire’s friends such as Sarvente and Ruvyzvat to help as well.
Chrom: Do we really need to find him?
Alex: Unfortunately so.
LC: In order to bring Claire back it… requires something that is important to her.

No… they didn’t… they went through my journal?!!
I knew what they were talking about. They were talking about my malachite ring. It was a pure malachite stone ring that was given to me by Revali, something he gave to me early on. I snuck it back and gave it to him as a braid ring, which kept his little braids together. I never told anyone about this, not even Revali, besides my daily journal.
I was furious they went through it, and I let out a huff, which made Lady Claire flinch. She glanced over her shoulder and I knew she saw me upset.

LC: We read about this is her journal, I as much as I know she would be rather upset, but we needed to figure out something that holds important to her.
Urbosa: Why not her mask?
Daruk: Or her crown?
Alex: Couldn’t find them. Don’t know where they went. Checked everywhere.

I let out a satisfied grunt, at least they couldn’t find my really important items. Those are very very important so I had to keep them safe. I also notice how she subtly apologized without telling everyone else I was still here consistently watching them. Bet that would freak them out.

Alex: So listen up. First things first, we’re going to spilt you all up. One team will be helping me with the research and the other team, you’ll be on your own looking for Revali.

Some grunted and let out little huffs. I knew they probably wouldn’t be too pleased to go and look for him, but they unfortunately had no choice.

LC: While you all do that, I will prepare for everything to bring her back. Are we clear?

Everyone nodded and Lady Claire dismissed herself, as her phone started to ring. She walked off to the spare guest bedroom to go and take the call.

***

Lady Claire

Ruvyzvat was calling me. Why? I wasn’t too sure. My hands were a bit shaky as I nervously answered his call.

Me: O-oh hello! T-this is Lady Claire speaking..
Ruv: Hello?
Me: Hi.
Ruv: Hello. I can hear you over the phone.
Me: A-ah well that’s how phones work, don’t they?
Ruv: Yes. Sorry, I have not used phone in a while. Um. Sarvente wanted me to ask you to come to lunch one day.
Me: Lunch?

I could heard Sarvente groan in frustration in the background, and some angry chatting before I heard the upset tone of the usually happy Sarvente come through.

Sarv: Ruv wants to have a lunch with you one day if you wanna comeeee!

I heard some more angry yelling from the phone. I heard a cackling coming from behind me to see the ghost of Claire dying of laughter. There was more more yelling before the phone was handed back to Ruvyzvat.

Ruv: Please come to lunch with me okay bye.
Me: I-

Suddenly, the call was over. What a strange conversation. I put my phone into my jacket pocket, turning to look at Claire wiping the tears in her eyes.

Claire: Wow, that was hilarious. Looks like someone has a dateeeeee~!
Me: Oh quite you. You gave Revali a ring.
Claire: That he gave me first! Besides, I don’t look good in green. That’s why I wear blues.
Me: Mhm.

She huffed before she crossed her arms at me and looked at me, very annoyed. I huffed back and looked as annoyed as possible at her.

Me: So where’d you’d hide your stuff.
Claire: Not gonna tell.
Me: Come on Claire, be a team player and tell me where your stuff is, please.
Claire: I left them at home with him. They’re getting remodeled. The crown didn’t fit my head anymore and the mask needed to be reinforced so it can stay on my face.
Me: Well at least it’s somewhere safe and not lost, that reassures me.

I took a breather, thankful she didn’t loose those important items. I glanced around the empty guest room and looks towards the basement hatch.

Me: Is she still down there?
Claire: Yep.
Me: Huh.

I turned away and looked back at Claire. Her eyes looked sad, but her face said a different story. I felt terrible for what happened, but I swore to her I’d always help her in times of needs, now I just have to live up to it.

Me: I promise I’ll bring you back.
Claire: Okay. I know you will but I ask of one thing.
Me: And what is that?
Claire: When you find Revali. Give him a good punch for me.
Me: Of course.

I would’ve patted her head but I gave her a solemn nod as I headed out, back towards home.
But suddenly, as I exited the house it got me thinking…
What really did happen?

Chapter Text

Ruvyzvat

I stood outside, waiting. As foolish and embarrassing as it seemed, at least I wasn’t alone since Sarvente decided to join.
We stood outside the restaurant waiting for her to come and join us. I hand my hands shoved into my pockets, while Sarvente looked around at the surrounding of this place we were in.
Very lively, I’ll say that much. Cars whizzing by, probably heading to that shopping center nearby. Plenty of greenery around, and a fancy sign with a fountain behind it.
I don’t like this place, and I don’t know why Claire likes it.
Maybe because of that bookstore nearby.
I heard footsteps approach, they were very quiet and faint, similar to Sarvenetes but they had a certain stride in them. I whip my head to see Lady Claire, who seemingly appeared out of nowhere.

LC: Hello!
Sarv: Lady Claireee!
Me: Hello.

Sarvente went up and squeezed her tightly into a hug. Her had an awkward smile at the contact. Hm. Keep that in mind Ruvyzvat.
Sarvente soon let go and Lady Claire dusted herself off.

LC: So, lunch, right?
Sarv: Oh yes! Let’s head inside.
Me: Hm.

Sarvente went and bounced off, leaving just me and Lady Claire. I gestured for her to continue as she did, giving me a small hum of appreciation, which I heard. We headed inside and once in, Sarvente was already talking with the woman at the front counter, asking for our seats.

LC: So, what made you pick this place?
Me: Oh. Claire brought us here once. I liked it here.

Clear as day. The day we came was chaotic and there were several bar fights going on. It was entertaining to watch other people fight. The mess of blood and tears and screaming were music to my ears.
I glanced back at Lady Claire, and for a moment, I thought I saw her staring shocked and jaw-dropped at me, as if she had heard my previous thoughts. But even if that was what I saw, she had a small beaming smile at me before Sarvente approached.

Sarv: Tables ready! Cmon, let’s go!
Me: Alright.
LC: Oh, coming!

We were led to a table that was a half circle. I was forced seated in the middle, stuck between the two of them. Seated and handed menus, I started to look, despite already knowing what I would be getting.
I glanced at the other two, Sarvente looking eagerly while Lady Claire looked at the menu as if it were some test.
A waiter came by to order are drinks. Sarvente got a pink lemonade, Lady Claire got a water, along with myself. Sarvente still hadn’t picked a meal, and quickly asked what we were getting.

Sarv: What are you ordering?
Me: Meat platter.
Sarv: Again?
Me: I like it.
LC: Oh I don’t know, I might just get the half-salad.
Sarv: Salad? Personally I’d rather go with the tri-tip sandwich than that! Ooh! Maybe I’ll get that! Ooh and with some fries..!
LC: Hm…

I looked at the menu, the salad seemed to be the cheapest thing on here. Was that why she seemed reluctant to order it? She could order something else, I wouldn’t mind if she did.
Once more, for another moment I thought I saw a flicker or her face change one more. She had a focused look, to which I swore went to a smile and eyes filled with adoration. It was like another blink and miss moment. But maybe I was just seeing things.
The waiter came back with drinks and we ordered.

Sarv: I’ll take the tri-tip sandwich! With fries please! Oh and extra sauce as well, thank you!
Waiter: Okay… And for you ma’am?
LC: I’ll take the boneless wings with onion rings please.
Waiter: Mhm… and for you sir?
Me: Meat platter. Medium. With fries.
Waiter: Of course. Your food will come shortly.

The waiter left us alone, taking the menus, leaving a loud an awkward silence besides the chattering noises throughout the restaurant. I noticed that Lady Claire changed her mind. She got those boneless wings instead of the salad. I wonder why she changed her mind. As the silence continued, Sarvente broke the silence and spoke up.

Sarv: Lady Claire! You never really told us what you do for a living?
LC: O-oh. Well my work is very private so I’m not too keen on talking about it.
Sarv: Are you a secret agent or something?
LC: Eheh… maybe….

Sarvente seemed to push in to know more about Lady Claire. I knew she was doing this for me, so I could learn about her without asking. I felt if I were to ask her any form of question I’d be interrogating her. I’d rather let Sarvente do the work for me while I studied everything else about her.
The way that she held herself was not confident, but had poise and elegance to it. She always held her hands clasped together, with a brown glove on one of her hands that only revealed her fingertips. The way she usually walked was as if she were floating — quiet, graceful, and smooth. Despite all of these movements and the way she carried herself, there was something else about her that almost gave me a sense of unease. The way she just seemed to be graceful and elegant was almost dangerous and a bit terrifying.
That and also the fact I know little-to-nothing about her. She likes to avoids topics, always seems to wear a jacket, her expressions changing in a blink of an eye, and how she seems to just appear out of nowhere.
And almost ironically, I swore I heard her say “Oh you wouldn’t be wrong”.
I look up to see Sarvente and her still conversing. Maybe I was just hearing things.
Sarvente got up to go and use the restroom, disappearing off.
Now it was just me and Lady Claire.
The talking was now over so it was quiet. I had a few questions in my mind, but could I ask? Might as well.

Me: So… why do they call you Lady Claire?
LC: Hm? Oh well….

She glanced off somewhere before looking back at me.

LC: I suppose that Claire friends gave it to me. I always get told we look alike, but that I’m more… well lady-like. So they just called me Lady Claire.
Ruv: So… it’s a nickname then?
LC: Yeah, I suppose. Besides, I think it’s a lot more easier than my actual name.
Ruv: What is your actual name?

She looked at me with a confused face and blinked a few times. She let out a little huff before resting her chin on her hand, elbow on the table.

LC: Nobody’s asked for my actual name before. Sometimes I even forget I have a real name.
Me: So what is it?
LC: My real name is Clarissa.
Me: Hm. That’s a nice name.
LC: … thanks.
Me: You know… I’ve got a nickname too.
LC: Oh? What is it?
Me: It’s Ruv.
LC: Ruv huh? Short and simple. That’s nice.
Me: Thanks. Y’know, I only let Sarv call me that, though I don’t mind if you do.
LC: Sarv? Do you mean Sarvente?
Me: Yeah. That’s her nickname.
LC: Huh. You two are luck your nicknames still relate to your name.
Me: Hm.

Silence for a few moments before a waiter came out with food. Sarv soon came back before digging into her food along with me. Lady Claire however was eating her wings with a fork.
She would stab the wing with a fork, dip it into some ranch, and then eat it. Maybe she didn’t want her hands to get all sauces. How lady-like.

***

We sat there, completely full from our lunch. I will admit, this place was rather good. Usually I do not like to eat out at places like this, but I will admit Claire does have some pretty good taste.
Our waiter left us the bill a while back and Sarv was looking at it, her eyes in slight irritation and disbelief.
Lady Claire had gone to the bathroom so I reached over and grabbed the bill, choking on my drink.

Sarv: I know! That’s crazy.
Me: G-gh! What the hell?! Why is it so expensive?!
Sarv: Look! There’s a dumb charge because we “apparently” came on one of their busiest days!
Me: Twenty dollars a person?! What the actual-
Sarv: I knowww! And then we ordered such expensive meals!

Sarv gripped her nun hat, and I could see some her pink hair poke through from stress.
Lady Claire came back and sat down, seemingly in a good mood despite the comical situation in my hands.

LC: What’s wrong? You seemed stressed.
Sarv: Ahaha… it’s nothing…!
Me: Besides this stupid bill.
Sarv: Ruv!!
LC: Oh the bill? Don’t worry, I paid for it.
Sarv/Me: WHAT?!

Sarv had slammed her hands down onto the table, causing some people to look around before she slumped into the seat before looking at Lady Claire like a madman. I couldn’t blame her, I was looking at her like a madman too.

Sarv: How?! How did you pay the bill?!
Me: And why?!
LC: Oh well, I didn’t know they would bring it out in that little pad thing. I just went to the front and asked the hostess at the stand if I could pay.
Sarv: Okay but why?!? W-we were trying to treat you!!
LC: Ah well, I prefer to not have debts to owe. Keeps myself clean from not having to many promises.

I couldn’t believe her. Paying for lunch… she was something, I’ll admit to that.
We got up and left and were outside the restaurant now. Sarv was sitting in the bench outside of the restaurant while I held the door for Lady Claire as she walked out, letting it go as soon as she was outside. She inhaled the fresh air, and I did as well. It was much much cooler outside than inside.
I scratched the back of my head as I spoke to her.

Me: Hey thanks for.. paying for us and stuff. You really didn’t have to.
LC: I don’t mind, really. But I don’t think we should do this more often, it’s rather fun.
Me: You think so?
LC: Mhm. Maybe not to this place again, haha~!
Me: Hm.

I turned away to look at Sarv who was about to head into a food coma before I wanted to ask Lady Claire something but all of a sudden she was just gone, no goodbye or anything.
She was gone.
Something about that didn’t make sense to me. How did she leave so quickly and quietly? She just seemed to disappear out of thin air.
Something was unusual about her…
But I like that.

Chapter Text

Lady Claire

I was watching over her corpse again. A new day, a new beginning to come up with ideas and ways to find Revali. Although it had already been a week since our last discussion. I wasn’t too sure how I could find him. I wanted to do it the right way, the correct way, together with a team.
I sighed as I slumped against her wall, taking off my blue boater hat I was wearing as I leaned my head back with a quiet thump. Claire floated in front of me, frowning at my slumped form.

Claire: Giving up? Is he really that hard to find?
Me: It’s not that I can’t find him, it’s just the fact nobody wants to tell me why exactly he even ran off in the first place.
Claire: Oh yeah. Uhhhhh…

I heard a sudden buzz come from Claire’s dresser. I got up to see what it was, and watched as a very small rectangular pink device buzzed, showing a notification from someone named ‘JJ’

Me: What is this?
Claire: Oh uhhh, that’s an IPod.
Me: IPod? What is that?
Claire: It’s basically a smaller phone!
me: Why not just get a real phone?
Claire: Hey, that’s all I can afford to pay right now.
Me: And who is this JJ fellow?

I eyed her suspiciously. She rolled her eyes at me and crossed her arms.

Claire: Technically a girl. She’s from my class. We like the same stuff and she kinda knows about everyone here and all that.
….What did she text me?
Me: She’s asking if you are alright, and why you haven’t texted.
Claire: Oh ah…. Just tell her I’m dead. She’ll get it.
Me: That’s rather blunt of you, no?
Claire: Wellll….

I picked it up and managed to get into this IPod. I went to the message button and clicked onto the profile titled ‘JJ’ and soon appeared the recent messages between the two.

Me: So ah… just say you’re dead, correct?
Claire: Yep! That’s pretty much it and then you just turn it off and-

Another message appeared.

‘Claire? Are you sure you’re okay? I’ve been really worried. And I have someone else here who is worried too.’

I paused. Someone else? A friend perhaps? I did not respond with my message yet. I glanced at Claire who was giving me a strange look.

Claire: Did she say something?
Me: Yes. She said that she and someone else is worried about you. Who is this someone else?
Claire: I… don’t really know? She has a sister. Vick. But I’m not too close with her. She’s… kinda distant and ghostly in a sense. So I’ve got no clue what she’s talking about.
Me: Hn. Well how should-
Claire: Just respond saying that I’m dead and that they shouldn’t worry about me or whatever, okay? Now, I’ll you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some spying to do!

Claire hovered away from me, slowly going through the wall to another room. I let out a small sigh before looking down at this IPod. I think about how to respond. At some point I find myself typing.

‘This is Lady Claire. Claire is unfortunately in some bad circumstances. Rest assured she will be okay. There is no need to worry. But who is this ‘someone else’ you speak of?’

Sent. It didn’t take too long for multiple and concerned messages to pop up.

‘What?? What happened?’
‘Is she okay? Please tell me she’s alright!’
‘Also you’re Lady Claire? She’s talked about you before!’

But no response to my actual question.

‘Rest assured, everything is fine with Claire. She’s deeply injured; in a comatose state. She will be alright, and yes, this is Lady Claire. But please answer my question, who else is with you that’s worried?’

Silence. It took a few minutes before I got a response back.

‘Revali’

What?! I was taken aback. Revali? He was at someone else’s home? At this mysterious JJ? As I thought about it, that would make some sense. If JJ and Claire were close, Revali would want to go to someone he could trust. After all, he knew too little about this world to be all by himself.
Not only did this make my JJ and everyone else’s about a thousand-times easier, but he was somewhere Claire knew. Somewhere safe, presumably.
Another message

‘He was flying around one day and I maybe sorta shot him down with a drop net and maybe kidnapped him.’
‘It was totally for Claire’s benefit though! I had some plans in mind and I couldn’t let him escape’
‘…wait that sounds even worse’

I let out a concerned chuckle. This JJ was quite funny. I could see why Claire was good friends.

‘Well as long as he is safe, that is all that matters. However I will be sending someone soon to come and bring him home. There are urgent matters to attend to.’

After that. The responses stopped coming. Perhaps she doesn’t have anything else to say. Texting was still rather a new thing to me even in 20 years of life. Though I never really knew what a phone was until…
I shrugged the thought aside. I turned off, the iPod before making my way out of her room and down the hallway of her house before bumping into someone.
Ruvyzvat was here again.
Again?

Me: Oh hello! You’re back. What’s the occasion?
Ruv: I… here.

He handed me a wad of cash. I didn’t grab it. Not that I didn’t trust him, but how did he get that much money? Was he secretly some sort of millionaire?
Before I could think of more responses, he grabbed my hand, opened my palm, slapped the money in and closed it.
This had to be at least $400….

Ruv: For lunch. Last week.
Me: Y-you know it wasn’t that expensive…
Ruv: Just take it.
Me: Where did you get this?
Ruv: Please.

I looked up at him. That, clearly, was not normal. Despite the little I knew about him, I don’t think that please was a common word in his vocabulary. His voice had cracked when he said it, so strained and kind of loud. He himself looked taken aback.

Ruv: Sorry. I don’t know what that was about.
Me: It’s quite alright. We all have our vocal strains, haha.

I was looking at him in the eye now. Sad. Dull. But not lifeless. If I could stare any longer I would, but he glanced away, looking down at my hand. He was still holding it.
He let go.
I almost wished he didn’t.

Ruv: … Sorry.
Me: Oh no, no, it’s fine.

I shoved the money into my jacket pocket. That seemed to be all he had appeared for, as he turned to leave the hallway.
A thought crossed my mind. It was stupid, it was ridiculous. But it was just in the heat of the moment.

Me: Ruv wait!

I cringed at myself. I sounded desperate. Did I sound desperate? Maybe I’m just crazy. Not only that but I had used his nickname. Would he be mad at me? He turned around when I called out to him, looking at me with a face of concern and confusion.

Me: W-would you…. Like to help me out, on a mission? Y-you don’t have to of course! You can leave and go back to whatever-
Ruv: Of course. I’d… like to help.
Me: Really?
Ruv: It’s better than lounging around a church all day.

This was great. Wonderful even. I don’t know why I did this, but suddenly everything just seemed to be so much better than before.

Me: Y-yeah! I’m… w-we can start tomorrow. There really isn’t a rush to start today. I-I just wanted to know if you want to join me, and all of that jazz!
Ruv: Hmp. Well, tomorrow it’s then. What time should I be here?

Time. I didn’t think about that. And tomorrow. I didn’t think about that either. My work…

LC: Oh uhm… how does noon sound?
Ruv: Fine by me.
LC: O-okay great! I-I’ll see you then?
Ruv: See you then.

He gave me a small wave before he walked further down the hallway, out the door, out of the house.
My heart was pounding.
I clutched onto it.
What is wrong with me?