What if Sakumo were alive and how Kakashi's life would have changed after Naruto was born
[Part 6]
"I can't believe it's been nine months already!" - Obito said excitedly.
The teenagers arrived at the Namikaze family's house. Kakashi raised his hand to knock, but the front door suddenly opened. A young woman came out of the house.
"Tsunade oba-san!" - Kakashi smiled at the woman, who looked at the three teenagers with a surprised look.
"Kakashi! Look how you've grown!" - Tsunade extended her hand and patted the guy’s hair. - "Have you come to visit Kushina?"
The teenagers nodded.
"Come in, she just woke up", - Tsunade stepped aside. - "I'll go see Sakumo-san for now."
Obito and Rin bowed to the woman in farewell.
"Why do you call Tsunade-sama an aunt?" - Obito immediately asked as soon as the woman disappeared around the bend.
"Because Jiraiya is my uncle", - Kakashi shrugged and entered the house.
"So what?" - Obito screamed. - "You're always like this. You can never answer a question directly. You're annoying!"
"Be quiet", - Rin shushed him. - "You'll wake up the baby."
The teenagers took off their shoes and walked into the living room. The door to the bedroom was slightly open. Obito and Rin knocked and entered the room, while Kakashi hesitated at the entrance.
"Obito, Rin!" - he heard a woman's voice. - "Glad to see you."
"Kushina-san!" - Obito rushed to her first. - "How are you?"
The woman was lying on the bed. Traces of fatigue were visible on her face. She smiled softly at the worried teen and squeezed his hand tightly.
"I’m fine", - she reassured the guy.
Obito did not take his eyes off her, in which anxiety was noticeable. At the same time, Kakashi finally entered the room. While Obito and Rin were talking to Kushina, Kakashi moved closer to Minato.
"Do you want to hold him?" - asked the Fourth Hokage as soon as Kakashi was nearby.
Hatake nodded uncertainly. Minato smiled encouragingly at him and held out the child. Kakashi carefully picked him up and pulled him closer.
"Hey Naruto, wake up", - Minato bent over the baby. - "It's time to meet."
The child in Kakashi's arms began to stir. His eyelids fluttered and after a moment he opened his big, blue eyes. Kakashi turned his back to everyone and pulled the mask off his face with one hand. His lips stretched into a gentle smile.
"Hello Naruto", - he said softly. - "My name is Kakashi."
Naruto blinked.
"I’m so happy to finally meet you", - Kakashi leaned over the baby and touched his cheek with his finger. - "From this day on, I will be your big brother. And I will always be by your side. I give you my word."
"Kakashi! I want to hold Naruto too!" - he heard a loud voice behind him and quickly pulled the mask over his face.
"Wait", - he muttered and hugged the child tighter.
"Hey, that's not fair!" - Obito immediately pouted. - "Give him to me."
Kakashi shook his head stubbornly. Minato and Kushina laughed.
"Come on, Kakashi, let Naruto meet his other siblings", - Minato put his hand on the guy’s shoulder.
"Okay", - Kakashi muttered displeasedly and handed the baby to Rin.
***
Three years have passed since Naruto was born and four years since Minato assumed the post of Hokage. Konoha was rapidly changing under the leadership of the Fourth Hokage. The first thing Minato did was remove Danzo from all affairs and abolish the Root. As soon as Kakashi turned seventeen, Minato appointed him head of the ANBU. Not only focusing on changing the ANBU system, Minato also advocated reforming the police department. By concluding an alliance with the head of the clan, Fugaku Uchiha, with the support of Obito, Minato was able to change the attitude of the elders and residents of Konoha towards the entire Uchiha clan.
In addition to changes within the village itself, Minato actively advocated signing peace treaties with other villages and ending bloody wars. The long-awaited peaceful era of shinobi has arrived.
Kakashi was patrolling the borders when he suddenly felt familiar chakra. He stopped abruptly, and his team members immediately froze nearby.
"Go ahead, I need to check something."
Having waited for their nods, Kakashi headed towards the supposed location of the familiar chakra. He landed silently on a tree branch and glanced at the ground. In the middle of the edge of the forest stood a child. Kakashi jumped down. The child turned around and shuddered in fear.
"Naruto", - Kakashi called him quietly.
The boy covered his face with his hands in defense. Kakashi mentally cursed. The child had never seen him in his ANBU uniform before. Kakashi removed the Hound mask from his face and then quickly pulled off the black mask as well.
"Naruto", - he called the child again. - "It's me."
The boy slowly moved his hands away from his face and turned his gaze to the guy.
"Kashi nii-chan!" - with the speed of the wind, the boy rushed at Kakashi and hugged him tightly around the neck.
"I’m sorry I scared you", - Kakashi said softly, stroking the child’s back soothingly. - "What are you doing here? And why are you alone?"
Naruto was silent, still trembling slightly from the emotions he had experienced. Kakashi decided not to put pressure on the child, giving him time to come to his senses. After a few seconds, he felt a familiar chakra approaching. He quickly pulled his black mask over his face and carefully broke the hug from the boy.
"Genma, captain of the Hokage's personal guard", - Kakashi turned to the arriving guy and deliberately emphasized his position. - "Would you like to explain why the hell the son of the Fourth got lost in the forest alone?"
The guy put his palm forward and frowned.
"Do you remember that five days ago the Fourth sent me on a mission to Hidden Sand Village? I returned an hour ago and was immediately informed that Naruto had escaped."
"Escaped?" - Kakashi clenched his hands into fists. - "So, what did your incompetent subordinates tell you? Isn't it their responsibility to protect and monitor the Fourth's son? How could a three-year-old child escape from their surveillance? Do they even understand the danger they put him in? What if something happened to him?"
Genma jumped off the branch and came closer to the guy.
"According to them, in recent days he began to run away more and more often. And it became more difficult for them to find him."
"They also have the audacity to come up with excuses for themselves?" - Kakashi’s cold voice cut deeper and sharper than any dagger.
Genma glanced worriedly at his right hand, which was beginning to gather chakra. The accumulated chakra crackled and enveloped the guy's entire arm in blue bolts of lightning.
"They were very unlucky that it was not the Fourth who found out about this, but me. Minato sensei could have spared them, but I won’t", - Kakashi growled in a slow and low voice. - "I'll kill them."
"Kakashi, stop", - Genma took a step forward, standing in the guy’s path completely without any fear. - "You're scaring Naruto."
Lightning flashed and disappeared. Kakashi turned around and met the gaze of frightened eyes. Hatake dropped to one knee in front of the child.
"This is the second time I’ve scared you, I’m sorry", - Kakashi bowed his head guiltily.
"Kashi nii-chan, I didn’t mean to", - sobbed Naruto.
Big blue eyes filled with tears.
"I ran away and now you’re angry with me", - the child said in a broken voice, rubbing his eyes with small fists.
Kakashi's heart sank. He extended his hand and hugged the boy tightly.
"Naruto, I'm not angry with you", - he whispered, feeling hot tears on his shoulder. - "Listen to me carefully, Naruto Namikaze, I will never be angry with you. You will never disappoint me. And you should never be afraid of me. I will always be by your side to lend you a hand or lend my shoulder. I will always be behind you, protecting you and guiding you. You should never worry about this."
The boy's small arms hugged his neck tighter. Kakashi could feel the child's heart beating fast in his chest.
"Do you promise?" - the boy asked in a quiet voice.
"Promise", - Kakashi vowed, putting all his love and devotion into one word.
***
"I knew I would find you here", - Kakashi heard Guy’s voice, and then felt Might sit down next to him. - "You weren’t near the gate and I didn’t find you in the apartment. You usually meet me after missions. Something happened?"
Kakashi could feel his excitement. Guy knew him too well, he could read all of Kakashi's hidden feelings just by looking at him. Hatake felt Guy's hot hand gently squeeze his palm.
"It’s interesting how much has changed in the village in the three months that I was gone", - Guy decided not to put pressure on Kakashi and decided to continue the conversation, giving Hatake time to find the right words. - "Did Naruto acquire some new techniques? I can't wait to meet him tomorrow and show him some new moves."
Kakashi snorted quietly. Guy loved Naruto very much and if it were his will, he would spend every free minute with the child. Kakashi liked to watch them train while sitting under the shade of a tree with a book in his hands. Guy and Naruto were very similar to each other in Kakashi's eyes. Both had immense energy and literally glowed from within, like two bright suns. And usually, when Guy went on long missions, Naruto's company brightened up the days of waiting for Kakashi. But not at this time.
"I’ve been having nightmares a lot lately", - Kakashi said in a hoarse voice.
Guy tensed.
"Every night I dreamed that I was losing everyone I cared about. Father, Duy-san, Obito, Rin, Minato sensei, Kushina-san, Jiraiya ji-san… They all died right in front of me, and there was nothing I could do to save them. I just watched helplessly as they left."
Guy silently listened to Kakashi's monologue. Hatake could feel how carefully and tenderly Guy squeezed his hand.
"And every night I woke up with a scream in my throat", - Kakashi sighed heavily and turned to face the guy. - "But, you know, there was something that helped me break out of these nightmares and come to my senses."
Guy waited with bated breath to hear the continuation of the story.
"You", - Kakashi finally said.
Guy's gaze warmed. The tense shoulders relaxed and the corners of the lips curled into a soft smile.
"Thinking about you brought me to my senses", - Kakashi continued. - "You know, my brain never formed nightmares about you. Because I know better than anyone that I simply won’t be able to stand it if I see something happen to you. I can and I was able to survive nightmares about all the people close to me, but I know very well that if something happens to you, I will break."
Kakashi pulled Guy's arm, forcing him to move closer. And then put his head on his shoulder.
"You are my anchor, Guy. Always have been. As a child, you always brought me down to earth when I acted like an arrogant kid. In my youth, when I was drowning in the blood of my enemies, you pulled me to the surface, not allowing me to choke. You became my support and my strength."
Guy gently ran his hand through the Hatake's hair.
"I often think about the future when I look at Naruto", - Kakashi admitted. - "This child was born in such a cruel world, but I want to change this world so that he does not have to experience the horrors that you and I once went through. I want his whole life to be filled only with happiness, joy and love. Sometimes I worry that he is too energetic and that it might put other people off. But, you know, this child is special. There is something in him that, on the contrary, attracts other people to him, makes them follow him. Very soon he will go to the Academy. Because of his parents' status, I was afraid that the other kids might shun him, but he manages to befriend every kid he meets. He has already made friends with Itachi's younger brother, the Kazekage's son and the children of Ino-Shika-Cho."
Guy smiled. Kakashi's voice changed when he spoke about his little brother. Guy could feel Kakashi's boundless love for Naruto.
"These are peaceful times, but sometimes this calm scares me."
"I understand what you mean", - Guy nodded.
"It’s like everything can collapse in an instant. It’s like this whole world is an illusion."
"That’s not true, Kakashi", - Guy objected softly.
"I want to believe", - Hatake sighed tiredly and closed his eyes.
He felt like he was falling asleep. And he knew that next to Guy, all the nightmares would finally recede.
"I missed you", - Kakashi said. - "Three months is too long. I was afraid that you wouldn't come back."
"I will always come back to you", - Guy gently hugged him by the shoulders. - "In this world and in all others. In this life and in all others. In every reality and in every universe, I will always return to you. Only to you."
Kakashi smiled.
"Sounds like the most serious promise", - he teased the guy.
"This is my self rule", - Guy lifted Kakashi’s face and softly kissed his forehead.
"Maa", - Kakashi pulled off his mask and covered his lips with his own, feeling Guy’s happy smile. - "I love you too".
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House Isekai: A Realm Reborn - Part 12, Step Ahead
Act 2 Masterlist
—
Their mission resulting in a half-success, House Isekai returns back to Fhirdiad to recover and prepare to return to Garreg Mach Monastery.
But for now, both staff and students have a chance to relax and bond with one another as a class.
[The Ocular - Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringers OST]
(Edelgard) "So, we were unable to find the Silver Weapon in the end..."
Dimitri and Claude looked concerned but continued to say nothing as Sitri continued her report.
(Sitri) "No. But what's more concerning is the fact that the Church has the Silver Weapon itself while Those Who Slither grabbed the plans for it."
(Dimitri) "I will have my scouts try to find any unusual activity in our borders regarding the Church."
(Claude) "The Alliance still has a few monster problems here and there, but it's nothing we can't handle. I'll look into the Agarthans alongside Edelgard."
(Edelgard) "My Strike Force is already off to hunt down Separatist activity in Adrestia and Faerghus."
(Rean) "About that."
The staff turned to Rean as he crossed his arms.
(Rean) "Edelgard, what exactly caused this Separatist movement to happen?"
(Edelgard) "...I'm afraid I do not have the luxury of time to tell you. But what I can say is that they threaten our very existence. We must spare no effort to quell this rebellion."
(Rean) "...Understood."
Towa, Aigis, and Kazuma looked at each other but decided to say nothing, instead letting the meeting draw to a close.
(Claude) "Then safe travels back to the Monastery. We'll ring you up as soon as we find something, though it might take a few weeks to be honest."
(Dimitri) "Claude's right. I wouldn't expect anything urgent for at least a month or so."
(Edelgard) "Use your time wisely, House Isekai. Farewell."
(Claude) "Later."
Edelgard said nothing more while Claude waved a friendly goodbye, leaving Dimitri and the rest of the staff.
(Dimitri) "...You looked like you wanted to say something else."
(Kazuma) "Obviously she isn't very keen on telling us the details. Know why these Separatists became a thing?"
Dimitri shrugged.
(Dimitri) "Honestly, I couldn't give you an accurate account either. I've only heard rumors how it's started. If you all remember, Edelgard wanted to abolish the Noble and Crest system the church laid out. Obviously, the Nobles in charge took great offense, but could do nothing as her rise to power was so sudden."
(Towa) "So the Separatists are Noble remnants?"
(Dimitri) "Something to that effect. I would imagine a sizable portion are Noble outcasts, but I don't know if they all are. I've had reports from both here in Faeghus and Leicester that some have defected to their cause.
(Kazuma) "How the hell don't you have any rebellion going on? People like Elizabeth and Astrid were really uncomfortable with the idea of fighting any Church forces."
(Aigis) "I think it might have to do with their hostile occupation, when we were still in Fodlan."
Dimitri nodded.
(Dimitri) "We had to follow the rule of the Church and if we stepped out of line, we'd be labeled as heretics and executed."
(Kazuma) "Isn't that how it went during Garreg Mach?"
(Dimitri) "Your group wasn't there during the occupation, but S.E.E.S was. When monsters mockingly called 'Angels' patrol your streets, and your blue skies turn into a endless pale white, you tend to lose faith in the people you believed were protecting you."
(Kazuma) "...Fair enough."
(Aigis) "And another thing, the Adrestian Empire abolished the Noble system, but from what I know of Elizabeth, you haven't?"
(Dimitri) "No. It would be imprudent to rip out a system so integral to our society, but I have taken steps to mitigate the necessity of crests and household name. Albeit, slowly."
(Towa) "Sitri, do you know anything about how the Empire's been doing?"
(Sitri) "I've kept up with current events during the past two years, though it's not as well informed as I'd like. Edelgard reformed the Empire during the two years you left, but as I was rebuilding Garreg Mach, I had precious little time to actually speak to everyone about their countries' state of affair. What Dimitri says is all I know too."
(Dimitri) "Right, we all focused on our own countries after the-"
Dimitri took another look at the staff and chuckled.
(Dimitri) "I apologize, I do not mean to prattle on when you are all battered and bruised."
Kazuma took a sigh of relief knowing that the meeting was about to end.
(Kazuma) "Dude, I am about to literally drop goddamn dead."
(Sothis) "Eloquently put as always."
(Kazuma) "Kiss my ass you green furby I'm entitled to at least a bed right now."
Sothis raised an eyebrow muttering to herself.
(Sothis) "What the hell is a furby?"
(Towa) "Please don't worry, Dimitri. This was important enough to talk about, and it's given us some good insight on current state of affairs."
(Rean) "Would it be possible to ask for a bit more information before we leave?"
(Dimitri) "Of course. I will have Dedue tell you what you need to know when you ask. As for relaxing, might you all come by the castle for breakfast tomorrow? I would like to reward you all with a well earned meal."
(Sitri) "Huh? What for?"
(Dimitri) "Your forces managed to subdue most of the Separatists we captured. Most surrendered without a fuss, and you have my word that they're being treated humanely."
(Aigis) "And the Church forces?"
Dimitri shrugged.
(Dimitri) "I'm afraid we were able to find no survivors. Any we found were already dead."
Everyone looked at each other nervously. It wasn't the Separatists that did the killing, so that only leaves...
Rean cleared his throat which got everyone's attention.
(Rean) "Anyways, we'll be glad to accept your offer, Dimitri."
(Dimitri) "You have done the people of Faerghus a great duty, one we will not forget anytime soon. But for now, I bid you rest. I look forward to our meal tomorrow."
Dimitri smiled and left the room to them.
(Kazuma) "...Shit. We didn't ever tell the soldier guys to shoot to stun on both of them, did we?"
(Aigis) "I'm afraid not. But we also didn't bring up Doctor Valda saving us."
Rean shook his head.
(Rean) "The Separatists need to be stopped, don't get me wrong. But, what is it that made Valda and her group defect from the Empire to begin with? She doesn't seem the type to throw her lot in with Nobles if what Dimitri said was true."
(Towa) "And being fair, it's not like we've always known Edelgard to tell the complete truth to anyone. Especially us."
(Kazuma) "So what, we just gonna wait until they tell us something? Cause we kinda got other shit to do besides twiddle our thumbs and wait."
Sitri furrowed her brow before an idea came to mind.
(Sitri) "We'll discuss it in the morning, but I will say this. From what I know how my son led House Isekai, it was not at the whims of the world leaders. It was a unanimous decision held by everyone in the House, and we'll be no different."
Everyone nodded in firm agreement.
(Rean) "Yeah, House Isekai worked for the better of everyone, not just one country."
(Sothis) "Well said." yawn
Sothis stretched her arms, eyes dropping low.
(Sothis) "Let's get some rest, yeah?"
...
[The Waking Sands - Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn OST]
Opening the doors and getting the snow off their boots, the group finally made their way back to the Mcgrath manor.
In the living room sat the ODST's, Raelyn, and Duvalie who all gave them a nod of acknowledgement.
(Kazuma) "I'm going to take a shower then head to bed. I'll catch you guys in the morning for breakfast."
Kazuma said nothing else as he immediately speed walked to the bathrooms.
Towa failed to contain her yawn and smiled at the others.
(Towa) "I think I'll do the same. Goodnight everyone!"
(Aigis) "I must recharge as well. Goodbye."
(Rean) "See you tomorrow."
Sitri and Sothis were the ones left, as everyone else waved goodbye.
At least everyone except Romeo and Duvalie did.
(Sitri) "Are you all not resting yet?"
(Buck) "Cleaning our equipment ma'am, then it's back to our original plan."
(Raelyn) "I will sleep at a later time, I must perform my prayers for the night."
(Duvalie) "Do you even need sleep?"
(Raelyn) "I am human too, Duvalie."
(Dutch) "Heh, could've fooled me big guy."
(Romeo) "More like a gorilla in forty tons of metal."
(Mickey) "Needless to say, you don't need to worry about us."
(Sitri) "Before you leave tomorrow, will you accompany us to the castle for breakfast? I would like to discuss our next plans before we make any decision."
Buck stayed silent for a moment before looking to his squad.
(Buck) "What say you boys?"
(Dutch) "I ain't saying no to free food."
(Romeo) "Sure. Beats going out and freezing our asses any sooner."
(Mickey) "Never hurts to be prepared."
(Raelyn) "Agreed."
(Duvalie) "I guess I can hear you out."
Sitri smiled, as soon as she stepped to go upstairs, she turned around.
(Sitri) "Oh, before I go, Duvalie?"
Duvalie raised her head.
(Sitri) "I heard about the fight with the Separatist machine. Thank you so much for protecting the students, despite your troubles with them."
(Duvalie) "...I-It's no problem, Miss Sitri. It's my duty as a Knight to protect the people."
(Sitri) "Speaking of which, do you happen to know where the students are at right now?"
(Buck) "Think that kid, Recette, took 'em out to eat. Commercial quarter. They'll be back later tonight."
(Sitri) "Thank you. Good night, everyone."
Sitri waved goodbye and went up the stairs.
(Buck) "...What was that stutter? You don't hate her guts too?"
(Duvalie) "Hey, she's done nothing wrong this entire time she's been here."
(Romeo) "Then the hell did we do to you to get all up in our a-?"
(Duvalie) "Shut up and go back to cleaning, soldier boys."
(Dutch) "Heh. Sure thing, miss sunshine."
(Duvalie) "..."
(Raelyn) "Careful there, Duvalie. The vein on your forehead is threatening to burst."
...
[Night in the Brume - Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward OST]
The Garreg Mach students, Class VII, and Knights of Favonius walked together down the streets of Fhirdiad while Elizabeth led the group.
(Elizabeth) "..And this is the street my parents took me most frequently to when I was a child. We bought all manner of things ranging from clothes, food and the most delightful toys!"
(Recette) "Oooh, I wonder what they stock here!"
(Tear) "Some of these items would be great back home."
As Recette and Tear got into a conversation of their own discussing how much they could sell offworld items here, Kairos continued with Elizabeth.
(Kairos) "Let me guess, only the highest quality?"
(Elizabeth) "Of course! The dolls here were made of the finest cloth and looked absolutely adorable! Though I do admit my father spoiled me with dolls in particular."
Kairos rolled his eyes.
(Kairos) "Spoiled more ways than one.-"
Stefan hit Kairos with his elbows, glaring at him.
(Kairos) "Ow! Alright fine, guess I deserved that."
Elizabeth muttered to herself.
(Elizabeth) "Honestly, you deserve a little more than that-"
Helena hit Elizabeth's head with the side of her head.
(Elizabeth) "OW!"
(Helena) "Knock it off you two, you'll annoy the others. And more importantly, me."
(Astrid) "Oh boy here we go…"
The Knights of Favonius and Class VII chuckled seeing their banter.
(Musse) "I wonder if Instructor Rean and Towa had to deal with this kind of thing back then."
(Venti) "If Kazuma and his pals were there, its probably WAY worse than what we have going on."
(Kaeya) "I would have loved to see that."
(Amber) "I'm pretty sure you'd just add more fuel to the fire."
(Jean) "I sincerely doubt- Juna, are you alright?"
Everyone turned to Juna who was rubbing her hands together, trying to stay warm.
(Juna) "Huh? O-Oh, don't worry miss Jean. I'll be fine, I'm just still not used to how cold it is here!"
(Stefan) "Do you need a jacket? I can give you mine."
Juna raised an eyebrow as she eyed Stefan up and down.
He was still walking around in his armor. As far as she knew, no one had seen him without it yet.
At this rate she wasn't convinced Stefan even had a body.
Stefan's cleared his throat awkwardly as panic slowly began to rise.
(Stefan) "O-Oh, was it something I said?"
(Juna) "No, it's sweet of you to ask but…do you even wear anything beside your armor?"
(Diluc) "Come to think of it, I don't think we've ever seen you wear anything else."
(Astrid) "But you guys wear the same thing all the time too."
(Ash) "Well, duh. Not like we got a change of clothes lying around."
(Altina) "And your world does not possess any orbal washing machines to allow us to wear anything different."
(Elizabeth) "What?! You mean to tell me this entire time you've never washed your clothes?!"
Everyone looked at each other awkwardly.
Venti was the first to sniff his shirt.
(Venti) "It...could smell better."
(Elizabeth) "Goddess, how revolting! At least tell me you all have?!"'
She turned back to the Garreg Mach students.
(Kairos) "You realize that not everyone has access to clean water for washing clothes, right?"
(Helena) "I sure didn't when I was with my mercenary company."
(Astrid) "I don't think we did? Iunno."
(Stefan) "We used to but...-"
His face darkened, which led to Elizabeth looking ashamed for her outburst.
Kairos now looked even more annoyed, turning to her and crossing his arms.
(Kairos) "Are you trying to imply something about all of us here, Elizabeth?"
(Elizabeth) "M-My apologies. I did not mean for it that to come across that way. If you had simply asked I would have gathered the necessary funds for getting everyone a new shirt at least."
(Kairos) "...Oh."
Now it was Kairos who felt ashamed.
(Lisa) "Oh I know dear, why don't we all go shopping for new clothes? Everyone could look as elegant as you!"
And now Kairos's annoyance immediately sprung back.
(Kairos) "I refuse to get in some pompous suit that I can barely move in."
(Helena) "Seconded."
Elizabeth's face brightened again as a smug grin began to form.
(Elizabeth) "Don't be so dramatic you two! There are plenty of choice clothes for everyone to be satisfied with!"
(Juna) "Ooooh, I'm down for that! I bet we can get you something super cute, Altina!"
(Altina) "Danger detected. I need an Instructor-"
(Recette) "Don't worry, I AM an Instructor! And we are going to get you guys the best deal!"
Recette jumped back into the group's conversation with newfound determination.
(Recette) "Oh, and I also want candy while we're out too!"
(Musse) "Thank you for the offer Recette, but are you sure? I think we can pay ourselves-"
(Tear) "What currency do your groups use?"
(Ash) "Uh, Mira."
(Venti) "We use Mora."
(Tear) "Both invalid currencies in Fodlan. Worry not, we will be able to cover all expenses, while turning a profit by the end of today."
(Amber) "Wow, I bet they'd terrorize Liyue with confidence like that…"
(Elizabeth) "Then follow me, we're wasting our free time standing around!"
…
Sitri finished writing down what had transpired during their time in Fhirdiad into a notebook, closing it and resting her back against the bed.
(Sothis) "Done recording?"
(Sitri) "Yes, though there are a few things thats bothering me."
Sothis floated towards the bed and sat down in front of Sitri.
(Sitri) "We said we were not to kill anyone if we could, yet when we arrived, most of the Church Forces were killed by our friends downstairs."
(Sothis) "Hm…It's best if we keep that bit of information to ourselves. Your students are finally starting to warm up to everyone, the last thing we need is for them to be alienated further."
Sitri sighed. She couldn't disagree, but it didn't feel right not telling them.
Continuing on, she looked up the ceiling.
(Sitri) "Then there was that powerful Agarthan. You said he felt familiar, do you remember anything?"
(Sothis) "Nothing except the way I felt. It was anger, yet…sadness."
(Sitri) "For yourself?"
(Sothis) "For the Agarthan. I felt the same way about the last one we met too. He seemed familiar to me, yet everytime I try to recall, it's like a fog blocks out the most crucial details…"
Sitri put a finger to her chin.
(Sitri) "And we can't use the Tower to look that far into your memory."
(Sothis) "If we can, I'd like to meet this "C" person again. There's not many in Fodlan who can see me."
(Sitri) "That reminds me, how is it you're visible to the old students of Garreg Mach, yet completely invisible to everyone else?"
(Sothis) "From what I've been able to gather myself, it is directly linked to the Zanado Tower. Those who were most involved with Byleth, or in the case of the original House Isekai more magically attuned, could see me. I guess I should be grateful that those who can doubt I am actually their goddess."
Sothis sprawled out on the bed yawning.
(Sothis) "Count our blessings, for how little they are given the circumstances."
(Sitri) "Right."
Sitri looked at her bandaged arm and realized the blood still hadn't dried up.
(Sitri) "…"
(Sothis) "Sitri?"
Sothis got up and floated over to her arm, examining it.
(Sothis) "…So you have yet to recover again."
(Sitri) "Sothis, I AM alive, right?"
Sothis looked at her, and put her hand to her chest.
(Sothis) "Not in the traditional sense. You've no heartbeat…Exactly like Byleth."
(Sitri) "…I must make a call before we rest."
Getting up from her bed, she went over to the desk and grabbed her communication crystal.
After a few moments of silence, a voice picked up.
(Yuri's Voice) "Headmaster Eisner."
(Sitri) "Yuri."
(Yuri's Voice) "Hah, sorry. Can't resist. What do you need, Sitri?"
(Sitri) "We are about to return to Garreg Mach soon, but I would ask a favor of the Ashen Wolves."
…
[New Morning - The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel III OST]
As promised, House Isekai made their way to the castle's dining hall where they enjoyed a hearty meal for their efforts in Fhirdiad the past few days.
And for the first time, the House could all be gathered under one roof just to relax.
(Venti) "Mmmm! This is so good!"
Venti gorged himself wildly on the the roasted boar that sat itself in the middle of the table, with a bottle of wine in one hand.
(Sitri) "Wow, you are very much enjoying the meal."
(Sothis) "A little too much, don't you think?"
(Diluc) "Some table manners wouldn't be remiss, Venti."
(Kaeya) "Oh lighten up. What's wrong with enjoying yourself?"
(Amber) "Honestly, I'm not super used to eating anything fancy."
(Elizabeth) "Should you so wish, I could teach you the proper way we ea-"
(Kazuma) "Bah, who needs it? You're with us, we don't gotta worry about any of that proper etiquette and shit."
Towa pouted as she turned to Kazuma.
(Towa) "Not in front of Recette!"
(Mercedes) "Hah, I'm not sure she's listening."
Recette was too engrossed by her meal as her plate was comically smaller than everyone else's, yet she was just as content.
(Tear) "She's not, thankfully."
(Kazuma) "See, just fine!-"
(Mercedes) "Kazuma?"
The tone she said his name had a chill run down all the staff's spine.
(Mercedes) "While I agree House Isekai does not need to follow protocol like the rest of Fodlan, might I please ask you think of the kids?"
(Rean) "Hah. Reminds me of Sharon."
(Kazuma) "Ugh, don't remind me of that she-devil, Schwarzer."
(Astrid) "Who's Sharon?"
(Altina) "She was a maid who helped out Rean, and from the sounds of it, House Isekai."
(Kurt) "Just how many of Instructor Rean's friends got involved here?"
(Kairos) "This is so confusing..."
(Helena) "So what makes her so terrifying Professor Kazuma is going to piss his pants?"
(Kazuma's Voice) "I HEARD THAT, HELENA!"
(Helena) "I know you did, sir."
The staff and Venti laughed while Kazuma looked angry.
(Musse) "Let's see, how do I put this? She's-"
(Juna) "A super maid who can make the impossible possible."
(Jean) "Hah, sounds like our Noelle."
(Diluc) "She still trying to bend over backwards to join the Knights?"
(Lisa) "Absolutely. Her dedication is very admirable."
(Stefan) "I understand how it feels wanting to become a Knight though. They were like heroes in my eyes as a kid."
(Kairos) "How about now then?"
Stefan, Kairos, Amber got into a conversation about Knights while Duvalie awkwardly moved over to Jean.
(Duvalie) "M-Master Jean, how have you been? Those kids haven't been causing too much headache, have they?"
(Jean) "Hm? Oh, they are not. If anything they remind me of the aspiring trainees back home. And speaking of which, it was very brave of you to block that shot for Kurt. I hope you weren't too hurt."
Duvalie waved her hand dismissively, though her face was getting a bit hot.
(Duvalie) "Weell, I don't want to brag but-"
The ODST's and Raelyn all stared at her with an eyebrow raised as she continued to speak with the Knights of Favonius.
(Buck) "Wow she really has a thing for those guys."
(Dutch) "Maybe cause they're both Knights or something?"
Romeo shrugged.
(Romeo) "Must be some code of chivalry or some bullshit."
(Raelyn) "Perhaps it'd be better if she spent time with them rather than your group."
(Mickey) "How about you then, Amuto? You seem content to just be in a corner all day."
(Raelyn) "When it is not time for my prayers, I believe it best for anyone not to-"
(Buck) "Now that is bullshit. If even Miss Sunshine over here is making friends, maybe you should befriend the kids too. We all saw how you handled those kids back at that fishing town."
Raelyn looked up in curiousity.
(Raelyn) "I do wonder what became of that child...Mila, was her name?"
As the ODST's and Raelyn spoke, Astrid looked at Aigis.
(Astrid) "Are you not eating, professor Aigis? There's nothing on your plate!"
(Aigis) "Oh, I am not hungry."
(Astrid) "What?! But breakfast is the most important meal of the day!"
(Aigis) "Er, allow me to correct myself. I do not eat."
(Astrid) "...B-But how?!"
(Elizabeth) "She means it literally dear. No offense when I say this, but she isn't human."
(Aigis) "None taken. It's true."
(Helena) "You wanna rephrase that?"
(Elizabeth) "Huh?"
Elizabeth's jaw dropped when she finally realized.
(Elizabeth) "Professor! I-I am so dreadfully sorry! I did not mean it-"
(Aigis) "Elizabeth it's fine, really. I am not human in a literal sense, and I know that's what you mean."
(Helena) "I don't know professor. I think she and Kairos still might hold a grud-"
(Elizabeth) "HELENA! STOP YOURSELF THIS INSTANT!"
Lisa pretended to be offended as she gasped dramatically and put a hand to her chest.
(Lisa) "I can't believe you cuties would hate me…"
Kairos was dragged out of the conversation when he heard Lisa.
(Kairos) "W-What?"
(Elizabeth) "Oh no no no! There's just a terrible misunderstanding!"
(Stefan) "Why do you two instantly respond to that name, she could be talking about anyone."
(Musse) "Yeah, especially Instructor R-"
Tear flew over to Musse before hitting her forehead with a spoon.
(Tear) "No teacher student relationships. Just because we operate outside the boundaries of normal schools DOES NOT mean we will degenerate into savages."
(Ash) "Wow, that's harsh."
(Kurt) "But necessary."
(Dutch) "So does she just always hit on him?"
(Juna) "Yup."
(Altina) "It is very disturbing."
(Sothis) "Speaking of operating outside: Sitri?"
Figuring that wasn't the worst segue they could have this morning, Sitri cleared her throat loudly to catch everyone's attention.
(Sitri) "I do not wish to damper the mood, but I wish to discuss our next actions as a group."
Everyone settled down and gave her their undivided attention.
Sothis crossed her arms mildly impressed. It seems she was finally getting used talking as a Headmaster.
(Sitri) "In the past, House Isekai has always acted unanimously, answering to only themselves.The past month, we have been only reacting to what's been happening to us instead of taking action ourselves."
She turned to the Garreg Mach students specifically.
(Sitri) "You five however have a choice."
They looked surprised.
(Sitri) "Though I have chosen you to become part of the House, I didn't consider even once if you wanted to. This is not what you signed up for when you joined the Officer's Academy. While my decisions are final as Headmaster, I am still your teacher first and foremost. Your safety is my upmost concern. If you wish to leave this class, then you are free to do so."
The five looked at each other, Kairos, Elizabeth, and Stefan looked the most nervous.
At first, everything they heard about House Isekai was always negative, thinking them out of touch killing machines who interfered in their world for no reason.
After the past month and seeing them risk life and limb for this world, one that's not even their home.
And this wasn't even the original members, though they knew they were off in other worlds they couldn't begin to comprehend, fighting for the sake of all their friends.
Nothing at all like the rumors and stories described them as.
(Helena) "I'm staying."
Everyone turned to Helena who had a look of indifference.
Though Elizabeth could tell it wasn't indifference by the way her brows were angled. It was determination.
(Helena) "Honestly? I have no idea what's going on and how you know much more about Fodlan than we do, but I want to know the truth. If you guys are saving my home and the place where my friends and family live, I can't turn away."
Astrid nodded and looked back to Sitri.
(Astrid) "My original goal was to become a Knight of Seiros when I wanted to join the Officer's Academy. But seeing the things I have, I'd be a disgrace to what they used to stand for if I shunned you guys and stayed ignorant."
(Kairos) "I admit, it was my ignorance that made me judge this group before even getting to know them. But these past few weeks have been eye opening, to say the least. While I can't deny my bias hasn't gone away entirely, I can see that Fodlan is as much House Isekai's home as it is ours."
(Stefan) "If anyone can bring back stability to Fodlan, heck it'd probably be you guys. Plus, I don't think I could live with myself if I left my friends in danger while I had the chance to protect them."
(Elizabeth) "I am in the same boat as Kairos. My lack of knowledge has been brought to the forefront travelling with you all. I want to know all I can about our world, and if it means going through the most taxing trials of my life? Then so be it."
The staff smiled with both relief and pride seeing the students' decision.
(Recette) "Yay! Then officially, welcome to the House!"
(Rean) "We're honored to have you join us."
(Juna) "Wait, why don't we get a choice?"
(Kazuma) "Yeah, those of you who travelled to this world are screwed. You're stuck with us."
(Duvalie) "I did NOT consent to being made a student."
(Buck) "Relax, he means for them."
(Jean) "We'd gladly welcome your groups to be with us as well."
(Duvalie) "Well, since you're inviting us-"
(Venti) "Wow, talk about a mood shift!"
(Sitri) "Welcome aboard. And now, as for our next decision…"
Everyone quieted down and listened to her once again.
(Sitri) "We have our allies investigating the Zanado Tower, and the Separatists. So that leaves us with Those Who Slither and the Church. Throughout our time, we have yet to actually investigate the Leicester Alliance and their supposed monster problem."
(Towa) "Do you think they're behind it?"
(Sitri) "We can't rule out the possibility. And if said monsters resembled the ones from the Knights of Favonius' world, we're the only ones who can take it down."
Everyone nodded.
(Sitri) "I propose instead of waiting around, we head there as soon as possible. It would give us time to investigate Separatists presence there as well. Does anyone oppose this plan?"
No one said anything.
(Sitri) "Then we have our next course of plan. We depart tonight at Nine."
Finishing their breakfast, everyone departed for the Manor to begin packing for the train ride there.
Sitri walked outside and took a deep breath of relief.
(Sitri) "That was nervewracking…"
(Sothis) "Hey, I think you killed it out there, miss headmaster."
(Sitri) "I sure hope I did. And I'm glad the students decided to stay."
(Sothis) "I feel like they'd be mad not to. Now come on, let's get the other staff so we can speak to Dedue."
...
[Where the Heart is - Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn OST]
The next morning, everyone had gathered their belongings and prepared to set off.
Dimitri went to the station personally to see House Isekai off, along with Dedue and Annette.
(Dimitri) "Once again, I must thank you all for the much needed assistance you have brought us."
(Sitri) "Of course."
(Rean) "We'll always be glad to help out."
(Aigis) "I hope we can meet again under better circumstances."
(Kazuma) "Oh quit being so damn dramatic. We'll see him soon with all this bullshit goin' on."
(Annette) "Jeez, you still haven't changed have you?"
(Mercedes) "Don't worry, Annie. I'll make sure he's on his best behavior."
(Kazuma) "Yeah yeah, whatever."
As the staff continued speaking with Dimitri and Annette, Dedue looked over to the students.
(Dedue) "And you all have our gratitude for risking your lives for Faerghus."
(Elizabeth) "Anything for the nation, milord!"
Elizabeth properly bowed to him with all the grace of a noble.
Meanwhile, Kairos and Stefan gave a half bow, Astrid didn't get the memo until a few seconds later hastily bowing, while Helena just nodded.
(Kurt) "All in a day's work, honestly."
(Amber) "Huh, that reminds me. I wonder what Aether is doing..."
(Recette) "Hey guys, the train is ready to go!"
Everyone nodded and finally went into the train, waving goodbye to the three.
Dedue and Dimitri saluted while Annette excitedly waved goodbye.
The wheels began to move, shooting steam off into the air and shifting snow to the sides as it drove out of Faerghus.
...
Stefan stared at his communication crystal, debating whether or not to make another report to Valda.
Knock Knock Knock!
(Kairos' Voice) "Stefan? You coming out to eat?"
(Stefan) "Be out there in a minute!"
Sighing, he stuffed it under his pillow while he took off his armor and put it to the side.
Looking out the window as the snow rushed past, he had no idea what to think now.
House Isekai was not nearly as bad as the stories made them out to be.
In fact, he genuinely liked them, and his fellow Garreg Mach students.
And yet...
(Stefan) "..."
He walked away from his bed and followed Kairos to the next train car.
PART 12: ENDED
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