[Monoceros Keep General Hospital's Second Floor: 17th of Before Witching, 6:25 AM]

A red haired and bearded man in his forties was finished packing-up his things which he smiled and readied himself to be discharged. He picked up his suitcase and signed a clearance waiver from the nurse who was waiting for him. It was a mute female orc in dark prussian blue scrubs who was patiently standing near the doorway.

" All set, Monsieur Laflamme? " she asked in sign language and gave him a curious look.

Nodding understandingly to the nurse, The fire Spitter smiled to her, " I'm all set, mademoiselle, and how're things around in the office and the hospital today? "

" Everything's well, monsieur.  Docteur Pascale has asked me to give you your perscription and clinical abstract, " she replied and handed him some paperwork and some bottle of medications. " He's out of town for his Pre-Candlemas vacation with his family. Just follow the instructions for your daily perscription. "

Vakama noticed another man in a wheelchair being pushed by an elven ranger. They were walking along with a blonde woman around the hallway. The man was talking in Chergari with his wife and escort. His whole body was covered in bandages. He was wearing a hospital patient dress and a robe.

" I was looking forward to having a long conversation, although maybe other interests will pop up, " Vakama replied and looked at the covered stranger on a wheelchair." The incidents are getting worse lately? "

" Oui, I guess so. You may ask the Chergarian patient here, " she signed.

" He wouldn't be bothered, if I were to ask? " Vakama turned to him and looked back to the nurse." If he doesn't mind that is."

" I think they are. "

The burned patient, Chirox Friedrich turned to the crimson haired man and then to his wife and aide.

" Jérémie, Angela. Ich schätze, ich muss mit dem rothaarigen Mann da drüben reden. (Jérémie, Angela. I guess I need to talk to that red haired man over there.) " Chirox spoke to his companions.

" Ich sitze einfach an der Bank und warte auf dich, Chi. (I'll just sit at the bench and wait for you, Chi.) " Angela said and sat on the nearest bench within the hallway where she could listen and watch her husband and his aide.

" Sprechen Sie also mit einem anderen Patienten, Herr Chirox? Ich schließe mich Ihnen an und höre Ihnen zu. (So, you'll talk to another patient, Herr Chirox? I'm joining and listening with you.) " Jérémie the Foranean ranger elf spoke in Chergari.

" Ja, danke, Jérémie, Angela, " the burned patient smiled at his two companions and turned to Vakama. " Guten morgen, mein Herr. (Good morning, sir.) I think you need to someone to talk to, ja? "

" Something we might share in common, and finding out...is solving this odd sensation within me," Vakama said, and he'd proceeded on to meet the bandaged up patient.

" Tell me, mein Herr.  What is it? I'm willing to lend my ears even I'm still recovering. "

" The stinging sensation of pain that's rooted within us, I can sense the same infliction from you..." Vakama said." You've been branded by the Umbrals? " He whispered.

" Ja, mein freund, " Chirox sadly sighed and nodded. " I suffered from it for eight years. Itna and his fellow Umbrals recruited me after leaving der Heer.  They asked me to hunt for those Chergarian Army deserters in Foranea. Then, he and his fellows inflicted me with a strange liquid inside my body. They brainwashed me into a criminal. My family thought I was dead. Recently, they found me thanks to my friends here who helped me. How about you? You have fully recovered and ready to leave. Surely, Mama Photis and Her Heavenly Siblings have sustained your condition. "

" I wasn't given a choice...when they forced me to join." Vakama commented." Those fiends attacked my village...and they took a handful of us, the other half weren't so lucky...they wanted us to watch it. And since the burning feeling has grown...of wanting to bring justice upon them."

" I'm so sorry for what happened to your friends. Surely, the Ordrè de Damokles are not too easy to trifle with, mein freund. Frau Sheeva has backed them up ever since they decided to go on public attention. She and Neforie agreed to it and wanted to bring change into this country. For me, I have my own way to bring justice despite my physical and mental condition. I'm helping my therapist, lawyer, and the police inspector to gain evidences and information from me. When I get recovered, I still need to return to the police department and work for them. I don't have magical powers anymore, but I only have my engineering skills and my work as a cipher to contribute. "

" Tenaciously you choose to continue on, and find any means of finding your path." Vakama nodded." The former group of yours, the Makutas...who were responsible for your condition? "

" Ja, I was a Hauptmann or army captain before. I'm also a telecommunications engineer and mathematician. I want to survive for myself, my family, and everyone who surrounded me and repay for their kindness. There are lot of things that I need to catch up from what I have missed, " Chirox continued. " Hethiss and Weber, they used to be my fellow soldaten in the Heer and joined the Umbral Cult's extremist group along with me. Before I got confined, I was fixing the wirings and equipment at the police department. Hethiss and Weber confronted and made me like this. Thankfully, Ivo, the Blue Knight, a ranger elf, and the police spared my life from death. " The Chergarian engineer on a wheelchair paused in shock and exclaimingly reminded, " Nein! Oh mein Gott! Ich habe vergessen, mich vorzustellen! (No! Oh, goodness me! I forgot to introduce myself!) I'm sorry, I forgot! My name's Chirox Ludwig Horowitz-Friedrich. What's yours, mein freund? "

" That goes both ways, for I haven't introduced myself and with us already bickering," Vakama grinned nonetheless, and replied." I'm Vakama Laflamme, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, monsieur Friedrich. "

" Laflamme, you speak Franken, oui?! " he chuckled and offered the discharged one a handshake. " C'est un plaisir de vous rencontrer et de vous parler, Vakama. Ce n'est pas un hasard si nous discutons de nos expériences! (It's nice to meet and talk to you, Vakama. It isn't an accident that we discuss our experiences! ) "

“ Coïncidence, nos chemins étaient censés se croiser aujourd'hui, en ce jour opportun, Chirox. (Coincidence, our paths were meant to cross today on this opportune day, Chirox.), ” Vakama replied.” Et cela pourrait être le signe d’un changement dans nos vies. (And it could be a mark on setting a change in our lives.)”

" Ja, danke schön, Vakama. (Yeah, thanks a lot, Vakama.) " Chirox sincerely smiled and asked. " So, are you taking your time going into the city or returning home? "

" My plans are staying a little, and reunite with friends for a few months, " Vakama said." There's a number of preparations that's needing to be done, and a group to aid in."

" I see. Understandable, " he nodded. " I think when I get recovered and cleared from police custody. I'd better settle with my family to somewhere else peaceful near Monoceros Keep and look for another job. "

" Perhaps this isn't our last stop, we could meet again in better circumstances? " The red haired patient suggested." And maybe find a preferable route together? "

Chirox remained silent when cocked his eyebrows, recalling what Merrill had mentioned to him as the Key to the Resistance. He curiously looked at the red head and cheerfully mused, " Ja. I guess so. Maybe, in the Dread Wolves Tribe. What do you think? "

" Living with a tribe of nomads is safer, than living inside the city? " Vakama pondered on the thought, with knowing the danger was rising everyday." Can they ensure our safety, from what's happening around here? "

" My aide happened to be one of them. He's one of my escorts along with the police and comes from the tribe, " Chirox pointed at the ranger elf who got surprised.

" You called me, Herr Chirox? Do you need anything from me? " Jèrèmie curiously asked.

" Nein, nein! " he laughed. " I just mentioned you! "

Jèrèmie nervously grinned and also laughed. Then, he turned at Vakama and politely greeted. "  Bonjour, je suis Jèrèmie Aubert. Enchantè, monsieur Laflamme! "

" Glad to meet a member from the tribe, and you've stayed in this area for years? I'd assume? " Vakama asked.

" Oui, monsieur, " the elf ranger and escort smiled. " I have been here since I was born one hundred thirty years ago, but I'm planning to join the Foranean Police force by next year. "

" You wanted to be a cop? " Chirox asked.

" Oui, " Jèrèmie nodded. " Being a tribe ranger elf and escort is part of my training. I want to protect and to serve anyone. "

" The Police and the Tribe have formed a union? With such an alliance to fight the disturbance of the city. It's a a starting point for a change, " Vakama said." And that's getting me motivated on doing the same."

" It all started from the Kastronov Circus incident. The Blue Knight and his group defeated the Ravenclaws and the one who had a pet talking head. Lady Merrill and the police inspector decided to be united for this country, " the ranger elf explained.

" My attending physician and his wife are also members of the tribe, " Chirox added. " They brought my children into the village to stay there. " Then, he looked at his wife talking to Dr. Montmartre. " Oh, he's right there. "

Glancing over to the doctor, Vakama watched him consulting with the spouse, and crossed his arms." You've got a check up with him, Chirox? "

" Perhaps, soon, " the Chergarian engineer replied.

Amnon finished talking to Angela and turned to Chirox and Jèrèmie and the other man. " Bonjour, messieurs. I'm glad that patient is able to interact and roaming around. "

" Frau Angela insisted me to bring her spouse on a wheelchair and let him roam around the place. Herr Chirox becomes too bored lying on the bed all day, " Jèrèmie grinned.

" I can't help, Chi. He has been curiously musing around the place and eavesdropping. So, we have let him see the surroundings, " Angela chuckled and kissed her spouse as he kissed her back.

" But he's still under observation? " Amnon reminded. " You may easily get infected.."

" The Vitality serum, you have injected me, helped me recover aside from Ivo's donated blood, " Chirox smiled. " Nein, no worries, Herr Doktor. I'm gradually getting better than before. I'm looking forward for my next treatment until my skin gets healed. " Then, he looked at Vakama and introduced the blonde physician. " Vakama, this is Doktor Amnon Montmartre. Herr Doktor, this is Vakama Laflamme. "

Amnon looked at the discharged one and offered Vakama a handshake, " Ravi de vous rencontrer, monsieur Laflamme. (It's nice to meet you, monsieur Laflamme.) "

" Pleasure to meet the esteemed doctor, you've been a name that's popped up in many places, Monsieur Montmartre, " Vakama smiled back when shaking his hand.

" It's Docteur Montmartre, " Amnon chuckled and corrected him, shaking his hands. " I just returned a month ago after working from my pre med alma mater as an attending physician and combat medic. "

Vakama sensed the physician's previous internal conflicts which he had recovered from them and saw his future as the leader of the Foranean Resistance and his alter ego. He sincerely smiled and nodded.

The bespectacled Akrovian-Foranean doctor curiously tilted his head and asked, " How can I help you, monsieur? "

" About the unsual...and if you'd encountered the corruption of Umbrals," Vakama replied." The brands of Umbra are affecting me, and I've heard about your miracle work to remove it."

" Da. I have witnessed them several times before I returned home. Surprisingly, I had patients who were inflicted with the Umbral Antibody , " Amnon nodded. " I believe you have a physician who's looking after you before your discharge. "

" Done a few months ago, before they gave me permission to leave, " Vakama nodded, then looked down towards his arm." Maybe from your perspective, you can discover the unseen? "

" Come with at my office, monsieur Laflamme. I need to study your perscription, " Amnon said and looked at the Friedrichs. " Clinic duties, see you later. "

" À plus tard, Herr Doktor. (See you later, Herr Doktor.) " Chirox responded.

" We'll meet again, Chirox, maybe sooner after it's all finished, " Vakama waved back, and followed the doctor to his next destination.

" I'll see you, soon. It's nice talking to you, mein freund. Auf Wiedersehen! " Chirox also waved at Vakama.

Vakama smiled back at the burn survivor and followed Amnon and headed to the outpatient area. A male elven nurse approached and handed him the patient records.

" You're too early to become my first outpatient, " the general practitioner said to Vakama and received the file folders from the nurse.

" Oui, consider myself a special case that's not been recorded, Docteur,  Vakama said with content." And that'd be going with five others, of my group."

" Really, do you have a medical abstract from your attending physician? "

They entered at the general practitioner's office and took their seats.
Reaching into his briefcase, the fire user pulled them out, and handed the file, and nodded." Certainly, with everything in order, and ready to be reviewed, Docteur.  My last case, took a little while for the results to come in."

" So, Docteur Robert Pascale is your attending physician. Well, he's out of town, " Amnon replied and reviewed the patient's medical abstract and perscription, checking Pascale's findings and laboratory results. " So, according to Docteur Pascale, you have minimal traces of Umbral Antibody and your scars are gradually recovering. Did he give some antibiotics since you were suffering from septicemia with Umbral Branding? It seems to be you were wounded and exposed by bacteria and this antibody. "

" Notably the Umbra's nasty gift, should you try on leaving the Cult, " Vakama sighed and shook his head in shame." The affliction weakens your body, and overtime it only gets worse if left untreated."

" You should have met my older brother and the other patients, " he answered and took out a 20ml syringe of Photis's Blessing. " I should have spoken to your physician about this.  Do you have allergens to any medications? "

" Care free of any, Dr. Montmartre, " Vakama breathed in deeply, and eased himself." I'm ready for what comes next."

" Alright then, " he nodded. " Please remove your jacket and pull your sleeves. "

Following the doctor's orders, The fire user removed his jacket, and set it next to him, and pulled up his right sleeve.

" This shot, what'll it contain? "

" This is a combination of Ouranist Holy Water, Vitality Serum with Herbs and diluted water, and powdered form of Akrovian rebuke gem, " Amnon explained. " Monsieur Chirox Friedrich and the other two women were the recipients of the Photis's Blessing. This time, you will be the fourth receipient, now hold still. "

The Akrovian-Foranean general practitioner injected it into the right arm bicep. Vakama, you winced and slightly moaned as if you were like bitten by an insect. Amnon quickly placed an cotton ball with drops of alcohol and povidone iodine. Then, he carefully covered with a tape on it. Then, he continued, " This one is for the physical treatment: Photis's Blessing: Anti-Umbral. You will experience slight fever for 37.8°C to 38°C and frequent urination to flush out the antibody."

Raising his eyebrow, the red head patient would nod in acknowledgement." I hadn't fainted yet, and I'll be holding strong from this point..." Vakama beamed, and would make a gesture." About one of your past patients, are you currently treating a woman, by the name Nokama, Docteur? "

" I met Madame Nokama Kuroshio-Riviere around ten days ago. She was one of my outpatients including her son, Marcelin, " he answered. " They lost a head of the family. She and her son had acquired acute pneumonia and Umbral antibody. "

" Her wisdom and compassion are her highest qualites, and for the others, like Nuju, Onewa, Whenua and Matau. Are they in the same line of recovery?" Vakama asked.

" Madame Riviere just mentioned to me of them, but they might come here in Monoceros Keep if I could remember, " Amnon answered. " Do you still have their last names? "

" I'll gladly provide them, Docteur. Whenua Montagne, Matau Voland, Onewa Roche and Nuju Wino. All six of us have kept in contact for the past weeks, and wanna offer our aid in fighting this shadow that's looming over this country, " Vakama replied.

" I'll ask the police or the Dread Wolves to find them, " Amnon said and wrote the names of the four people. " Or even the Blue Knight himself. "

" The Blue Knight may be closer than anyone suspects, " Vakama hinted and gradually nodded." He's become a well known protector of this city? "

Amnon became nervously silent and fixed his glasses. He cocked his eyebrows and placed his pen down. Composing his thoughts, he intently looked at his outpatient before he could answer.

" Yes, I believe so. He's watching over us and he can be anywhere, " he nonchalantly replied. " Tell me, have you seen, read, or heard about him? "

" Generally from news paper clippings, and other sources of information, mainly gossip from others in a café," Vakama replied.

" He must have been a talk of the town, yet he remains mysterious, " Amnon interjected. " Wherever he is right now, he could be observing us and monitoring some criminal activities from the Umbral Cults. "

" Or he's overlooking our conversation? " Vakama hinted and sat back." Maybe he's all supernatural? A phantom that overhears everything in the city? "

" No one knows who or what he really is, " Amnon chuckled and raised his artificial right hand in interjection, making excuses. "  Someone describes him as an angel disguising as a mysterious warrior. "

" Blessings are shaped in many forms. This one taking form of a protector is the innocent's cries, being answered, " Vakama implied.

" Well..." the doctor paused in reply and deeply thought of his patient's words.

" You're holding a secret that's vastly safeguarded," his patient whispered and saw his reaction." I'll keep it quiet, if you tell me, are you doing this for your friends or yourself, Amnon? "

The Akrovian-Foranean physician took a deep inhale and exhaled. Then, he fixed his glasses and thought of responding him in sign language. He looked to and fro, making sure no one could hear his secret.

" Yes, I am the Blue Knight and doing this for everyone who knows my secret identity including myself after a month of leaving the Odyssea Academy's contractor guild and losing my clinic. One of the Dread Wolves Tribe has kept the armor from my ancestors, " he replied using his hands. " I suffered both physically and mentally from my past experiences, but the current situation in this country has compelled me to do some 'evening rounds' as the Blue Knight. "

Speaking back in the same manner, Vakama nodded and moved his finger's in signs and spoke, " Molding yourself from the damage done, and rebuilding yourself into a real hero, is a noble cause, and one I'm wanting to lend my service to." Then, he smiled.

" Merci, " he replied and smiled back. " Wait, have you served the Foranean Army before getting into the Umbral Cult? "

" My tour of service lasted for ten years, before those wretched creatures captured me..." Vakama said." It took Matau to convince me, where I belonged to their side, and never the Umbrals to redeem myself."

" I served the Army for two years after graduating from Odyssea Academy and encountered with some Chergarians back in Robania. After two years, my wife and I had been to therapy and redeemed ourselves by studying and graduating from medical school at University of Foranea. I'm still continuing the practice, but returning myself as a warrior is both blessing and a curse, " Amnon recalled and explained. " In your case, you want to return to your previous life before the cult took you. I wish I met you beforehand, but I'm glad Docteur Pascale has looked after you. "

" Reliving my past life...isn't something so easy to return to, when you'd form a new path and proceed onward." Vakama replied." Once the Umbra's are defeated, then I could settle down, Docteur."

" I agree. Same here, I still have a daughter to raise aside from my career. "

" My family will start one day, and maybe it'll be with Nokama? " Vakama smiled genuinely at him." She'll need to focus on the task ahead. And for yourself, do protect your daughter with everything, and ensure her future is forever bright."

" I will, monsieur Laflamme. Merci. Spasibo. " the doctor nodded, sincerely smiled back, and reminded. " Just continue your perscrisption from Docteur Pascale. You can return to him for your check-up once he returns from his vacation leave. "

[Monoceros Keep General Hospital's Second Floor: 17th of Before Witching, 4:00 PM]

Odette was finished with her chemo cycle this week which Wilma and the palliative care had done. Somehow, she was looking forward of going home and resting. She looked at the window and sighed. Laying back on her bed, the Older woman then sighed in wondering what awaited here. Of either seeing her elegant snow white's face, or keeping on looking toward the landscape from her window.

" Wilma, I know you've got a miracle for me, somehow, " she said.

" Perhaps, later this evening, " the oncologist smiled. " We still need to get you prepared. "

" I've waited longer than before, it's no difficulty for me, Doctor, " Odette said as she had done her best to smirk before coughing.

" I've already talked to Amnon about the supplement which he will give you. He'll come anytime now, " Wilma replied.

" His business of being the Knight, may keep him occupied, my darling Snow Flake," Odette smiled back to her." What sort of medication is he going to offer? "

" Being the 'Knight' or a father and a doctor? He will just come and see us, " she answered.

" Of course, I'd prefer the Amnon as a doctor and a father on whom I taught, from always being the ever so curious and wanting to learn," Odette smiled from remembering her younger days of teaching." You two have become promising scholars turned to doctors." She slowly stroke her arm." Maybe the Blue Knight instead, will he pay us a visit? "

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door when the two heard it.

" Oh, Heavens, that must be him! " Wilma exclaimed.

" I'll call him in, my darling Snow Flake." Raising herself up, the older woman then cleared her throat." Doctor Montmartre, are you coming in?." She said with exchanging a glance to her wife.

Wilma nodded and opened the door which she looked at blonde bespectacled and moustached man arrived at their doorstep. He greeted with a smile.

" Bonjour, " Amnon said and held his belongings.

" Bonjour, " the platinum haired oncologist greeted him back. " You're just in time to see us again. "

" It won't be long since I will have visitors this evening."

" Right, you have brought the suppliment. "

" Of course, but she will be under observation for this treatment. "

" Amnon, the requirement of this serum? How did you precure it? " Odette asked in deep wonder, while looking to the various items that her former student collected.

" I based this from the Vitality Serum formulated in Odyssea Academy. In this one, I made some enhancements for this new serum, " Amnon replied.

" Taking a few lessons from the Elves magical arts, Amnon? " The retired doctor asked with curiosity. " The herbs or the other oddities they've collected are mysterious of how they occurred them."

" Well, a few of course, " he nodded. " Let's see if this could help alleviate your condition. "

" My condition can't get any worse than it is, and with my two favorite students being here to ensure my health. Please do it,  Amnon. I have high hopes it'll work, " Odette smiled to them both.

" It's fine, " Amnon nodded and took out the 20ml syringe of Photis's Blessing. " Let's see if this works. "

He injected it at his former professor's left arm as the new serum entered into her bloodstream. Breathing in deeply, Odette held onto her wife's hand for comfort to both assure and have leisure from what was about to happen.

" With you beside me, Snow Flake. We'll see through this together, " she said.

" Well, of course, " Wilma nodded and sat beside her wife.

Feeling an odd sensation from within her, after a manner of minutes have passed." Amnon, who've given you this serum? Was it the Elder of the Dread Wolves? Or was this required from somewhere else?" Odette slowly stroked her wife's arm, and smiled to her to keep the tension calm.

"  Dè rien, madame. " Amnon sincerely smiled. " This is just a supplementary treatment, although it's required to have some check-ups in case that your condition reoccurs. "

" Nonetheless, I'll keep taking my needing medication and be blessed with a new chance in life." Odette smiled in a joyous moment." Should we run a check-up right now, Amnon? "

" Just for medical assessment, yes, but for the laboratory procedure, you need to take it tomorrow. "

" I'll be staying here for another night, so everything should be fine and in order." Odette winked at her wife, and looked back to Amnon." Can I consider that Wilma stays with me for the rest of the night? "

" Well, you will be discharged very soon, madame. Let's start. "

The young Akrovian-Foranean general practitioner began taking his former professor turned cancer patient's vital signs; respiration, heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and other changes in the superficial parts of the body. Then, he kept asking questions and wrote his physical assessment including his pre-diagnosis and recommendation.

" Voila, " he replied and handed her some paperwork.

Taking the sheets in hand, Odette reviewed the assessment of her former student's study, and was widening her gaze in surprise." Your shear calculations of my health is highly accurate, Amnon. And from these results, I may pull through to a long life? "

" Around 5 to 10 years, If cancer tends to have a remission. You can still consult with your wife. "

“ Between those years of my life, I’ll spend them wisely on spending time with my family, and those of are dear to me.” Odette slightly rubbed her wife’s hand.” There’s a moment of clarity to shine a new light, and have a good party once more, Snow Flake.”

" I know, Odette, " she smiled at her.

" I'm sorry if I interrupt you both. I really need to tell you something, " Amnon broke his silence. "  My fellow colleague and another former student of yours, Dr. Victor Messier was rescued by the Blue Knight and his group a few nights ago. "

" Heathens, those demons had their punishment delivered, by a heroic and stoic Knight, " Odette said in thinking about the state of her former student." Is Victor recovering well and safe from those lunatics, Amnon? "

" Victor is now a mutant, " Amnon sadly sighed. " Finally, he returned to his original consciousness. The Blue Knight told me everything. "

" Can we see him? " Wilma asked.

" He's very ashamed to go out in public. Only his wife Belle is taking care of him. "

Setting a hand on her wife's right, Odette shook her head to her, " He's needing time to recover, from both physically and mentally...and maybe Belle can meet us in his place? "

" We may arrange a home visit to the Messiers, one of these days, " Wilma answered. " But definitely after Candlemas.  "

" I agree, " Amnon nodded. " I hope Victor will be glad to meet us again. "

[Montmartre Residence: 6:10 PM]

Doctor Glenda Montmartre played a jazz waltz instrumental on the piano in E-minor as Little Emie remained in her stroller listening to her mother's music, smiling and cooing at her. The new mother and pediatrician smiled back at her daughter when her both fingers kept dancing on the ebony and ivory keys. Suddenly, she heard a door knocking and got interrupted. Emie cried loudly as she couldn't hear her mother's music. The doctor heavily sighed and carried her.

" Sorry, dear. It looks like your father has come home from work, " she softly said and kissed her distressed little girl. " I'll play that song later, okay? "

Opening the door, she got surprised to see her husband and some guests. Glenda smiled and kissed her spouse's cheeks.

" You brought the Jørgensens for dinner! I'm glad they have just come over! " she happily said.

" They have some Palgish dishes to share, " Amnon kissed his wife and daughter and looked at Torsten and his relatives.

Little Emie stopped crying as she curiously saw some visitors and turned to her parents.

Torsten smiled at Amnon and Glenda, “ I’m happy to be attending dinner alongside my family. How are you all doing?”

" We're doing well. I've just come from my hospital discharge and played the piano for my daughter, " Glenda replied.

" So, you must be Laege Glenda Montmartre? " Aurora asked.

" It's nice to meet you in person! Torsten has mentioned to me of you! You're also working with your husband. "

" Thanks, Mrs. Jørgensen. "

" Oh, please call me, Aurora! "

" Oh, sure. I will. "

" Why don't you all come in, " Amnon looked at the guests. " It's our turn to host. "

" Please come in, " Glenda added.

Torsten entered his friends’ home holding some of the Palgish dishes before gesturing his family to follow him inside.

" This is a very nice house, ja? " Henrik commented.

" I know! " Espen happily exclaimed and intently looked at the Late Senator Montmartre and his surviving widow from the portrait. " I'm pretty sure Jean Meir would have been so happy to see us if he were still living. "

" Merci beaucoup, messieurs Henrik èt Espen, " Amnon warmly smiled.

" De rien, jeune mèdècin. " the two Palgish men replied.

" Pardon moi, docteurs. Who plays the piano? " the blonde woman named Helga asked the Montmartre spouses and noticed the piano at the living room.

" I used to when I was a younger and playing along with my late father,  but I play the guitar the most, " Amnon answered and lovingly looked at his wife. " But my wife does, she passionately plays it. "

" It's one of my favourite past times, playing music, " Glenda chimed in and carried her daughter.

“ My cousin, Helga is a renowned singer and musician,” Torsten explained to Amnon.

" Wonderful! " the physician spouses exclaimed in unison.

" Tak. I mean, merci. " Helga smiled at them. " I am a jazz singer in Palgirlund and Foranea. I do perform in clubs and bar. So, I assume you two fell in love and married for your commonalities, ja? "

" Yes, my husband and I met at Odyssea Academy in our pre-med years, " Glenda answered. " I agree with you. I found my match there! "

" Interesting, " Saija remarked. " I believe your relationship blossomed into marriage! "

" To say that, Oui. " Amnon added.

Ilona was seen looking at the family photos and slightly smiling at them. Then, she looked at Torsten and said, " They're just like us in some ways, ja? "

Torsten smiled at his cousin before speaking, “Ja. We have a lot of things in common. It also bring back some memories.”

" Have you ever thought of what happened to them? " she asked. " I mean Uncle Torshàvn and Aunt Lykke? "

Torsten sadly sighed, “ I don’t know, they’re still missing. Police is doing everything they can to find them, Ilona.”

" I hope so. " she sighed. " Eventually, we will find them. "

Suddenly, there was an elderly woman with her caregivers and the taller elderly Akrovian bald man who just came to the library and finished writing. Somehow, the old man managed to smile at his visitors even he was suffering. He inhibited his enormous pain and joined with them.

" Amnon, Glenda, we have visitors, Da? " Karola meekly asked.

" Kakye?! I didn't expect they are too many! " Blokk loudly laughed.

" Oh, everyone, this is my mother Karola Danilovskaya-Montmartre and her caregivers Monika Rasputina and Ilyana Petrova and then my uncle Misha Danilovsky, " Amnon introduced and then turned to the other four. " Ma, Dyadya, Ilyana, and Monika, these are the Jørgensens. Torsten, Henrik, Rebekka, Espen, Aurora, Saija, Ilona, Mikko, Viktor, and Helga. "

" This is a very extended family, Da? " Monika chuckled.

" I know! " Ilyana laughed.

" It is a pleasure to meet you all, " Karola smiled at them.

" It would be better if the rest of the Danilovsky and Montmartre families will be joining us and meet the Jørgensens! " Blokk joked and gave them a loud hardy laugh.

" Ja, we are indeed a big family! " Espen grinned and turned to  the elderly Akrovian lady. " Karola, it's good to see you again. "

“ It’s nice to meet you both as well, ” Torsten happily said to Karola and Blokk.

" Spasibo, I mean, thank you, my friends! " the elderly blonde woman cheerfully spoke. " I am so glad to see you all. Meirshka would have been so happy if he were still living with us. "

" Karola, your son has been following your beloved spouse's footsteps for his generosity and hospitality, " Aurora remarked and looked at Amnon. " Even if he is a doctor, you raised him well. "

" Thank you, Aurora. "

" Misha Danilovsky, you are one of the greatest writers in Iliad! " Viktor approached the elderly Akrovian man and shook hands with him. " I'm one of your avid readers of your novels and short stories. I wish I could have brought my book, so you could sign it for me! "

" I have been reading your books, monsieur Danilovsky, " Saija added.

" Ja. I love your works! " Mikko added.

" Thank you, everyone. Please call me, 'Blokk!' " the elderly Akrovian author grinned and chuckled. " I'm currently rereading and editing my newest work before I publish it. "

" Interesting! We will look forward for your next work, monsieur Blokk! " the Palgish Ouranist priest replied.

" You will like it very soon, malchik! "

“ What can you teleport us about your newest book, Blokk?” Torsten curiously asked.

" I'm finishing editing and rereading Robania's Lost Echoes before I publish it. I have not thought of my next work yet, " Blokk answered.

As the conversation along with the two families in the living room became very joyous and festive, Glenda placed Emie in the baby carriage stroller when the little girl was happily cooing and looking forward for her mother's music. Helga waited for the Elandric-Foranean doctor to play a chord.

Glenda had set her fingers in the key of G Major and looked at Helga. Emie happily cooed at her mother which she was striking the keys. Helga took a deep breath and began to sang in her contra-alto range. Everyone turned their attention to them.

" Non, rien de rien
Non, je ne regrette rien
Ni le bien qu'on m'a fait
Ni le mal
Tout ça m'est bien égal
Non, rien de rien
Non, je ne regrette rien
C'est payé, balayé, oublié
Je me fous du passé

Avec mes souvenirs
J'ai allumé le feu
Mes chagrins, mes plaisirs
Je n'ai plus besoin d'eux
Balayé les amours
Avec leurs trémolos
Balayé pour toujours
Je repars à zéro

Non, rien de rien
Non, je ne regrette rien
Ni le bien qu'on m'a fait
Ni le mal
Tout ça m'est bien égal
Non, rien de rien
Non, je ne regrette rien
Car ma vie
Car mes joies
Aujourd'hui
Ça commence avec toi..."

Torsten, you looked at your singer cousin and physician friend performing. You were pleased to hear their music and smiling at them. Amnon also enjoyed in seeing his wife playing the piano and sighed in relief.  Torsten continued listening to the performance enjoying the music.

As the song ended, everyone cheerfully applauded at the two women. Amnon approached his wife and kissed her as he carried Emie into his arms. Their little daughter smiled and cooed at her parents.

" This is so wonderful! " Karola exclaimed." Udivitel'nyy! (Amazing!) "

" Merci, Madame Montmartre, " Helga replied and bowed at everyone.

" I never realized that your family are also talented, Da? " Blokk looked at Henrik and Espen.

" Ja. We may be musical as well, " Espen grinned.

" Torshàvn and I could have sung Palgish songs! " Henrik cheerfully added. " It also runs in the family. "

" I hope we can hear more from Doctors Montmartre! "
Rebekka cheerfully mused. Amnon and Glenda shared glances as Emie musingly cooed at them.

“ Perhaps Amnon could sing us a song, ” Torsten added.

" Cheesecake, your guitar..." Glenda reminded. " I'll go with the piano. "

" What about the dinner? " Amnon asked with concern." I should have..."

" It's okay. Monika and Ilyana are now at the kitchen. The Asclepius Lovebirds are now back on air! "

" Da, " her spouse sighed and relented.

" It's okay, laege. I'll carry your daughter, " Saija volunteered.

" Thanks. " they spoke in unison.

Amnon had let the Palgish studies professor carry Emie for a while. He took his guitar and started tuning. His wife was on the piano once again. Just then, Ivo, Pierre, Marie, and Nirvana entered the house and got surprised to see the visitors. They took their seats and watched the Asclepius Lovebirds' performance. Torsten eagerly watched as he wait for the couple to begin their musical performance.

The Akrovian-Foranean doctor tapped his feet in counting and looked at his wife on the piano. Then, he started strumming in C major when everyone turned their attention to the physician spouses. Glenda struck a chord and followed her husband before he started singing.

" Hold me close and hold me fast
The magic spell you cast
This is La Vie En Rose

When you kiss me heaven sighs
And though I close my eyes
I see La Vie En Rose

When you press me to your heart (Quand il me prend dans ses bras)
I'm in a world apart (Je vois la vie en rose)
A world where roses bloom

And when you speak, angels sing from above
Everyday words seem to turn into love songs

Give your heart and soul to me
And life will always be
La Vie En Rose..."

Amnon and Glenda harmonised in some parts of the song and then they transposed it into A major. It was Glenda's turn to sing  before her spouse would sing his part.

" Quand il me prend dans ses bras
Il me parle tout bas
Je vois la vie en rose

Il me dit des mots d'amour (And I don't know why)
Des mots de tous les jours (I close my eyes)
Et ça me fait quelque chose (If only you would)

Give your heart and soul to me
And life will always be
La Vie En Rose..."

The spouses returned to play in C major for their instrumental. Then, they continued to sing in parts. Everyone paid attention at them and felt pleased to hear their duet.

" Il est entré dans mon cœur
Une part de bonheur
Dont je connais la cause

C'est toi pour moi, moi pour toi dans la vie
Il (Elle) me l'a dit, l'a juré pour la vie

Give your heart and soul to me
And life will always be
La Vie En Rose..."

The song ended as everyone cheerfully applauded at them. Amnon turned to Glenda as she stood up. Then, they bowed at their audience and passionately kissed at each other. Saija noticed Emie was happily cooing and babbling at her parents' duet.

" Torsten, their daughter seems to like her parents' singing, " she said to her cousin. " That must be a good and early sign for a little one to appreciate music. "

“ Ja. Emie will be a great singer just like her parents when she grow up. Perhaps, Helga could give her lessons.” Torsten said to Saija in agreement.

" Indeed, this little girl will take places, " Helga noticed the baby's interest in music.

" There's more to come from the Asclepius Lovebirds, " Pierre remarked.

" Perhaps, they should rebrand themselves as ' The Montmartre Family Singers' once Emie grows up and meets her siblings, " Ivo suggested. " Ja , the whole family will sing and form a band.    "

" From 'Asclepius Lovebirds' to 'The Montmartre Family Singers', I kinda like that! " Marie softly chuckled.

" Nice name for the band.” Torsten happily said Ivo in agreement.

" Merci beaucoup, " Ivo smiled back at Torsten and  curiously asked. " Pardon moi, mein freund. Have we met? "

" Yeah, we got surprised that our brother and sister-in-law invited you here, " Pierre added.

“ I’m Torsten Siegfried Jørgensen. Amnon is a colleague and friend of my. He invited me and my family to dinner, ” He answered Ivo and Pierre.

" Bonsoir, je suis le Capitaine Pierre Gabriel Montmartre. Je suis le frère des docteurs Amnon et Glenda Montmartre. (Good evening, I'm Captain Pierre Gabriel Montmartre. I'm Doctors Amnon and Glenda Montmartre's brother.) " the Foranean Army captain introduced himself and gently knocked on Ivo's elbow for his turn.

" Je m'appelle Ivo Matthias Augustin-Fischer. Techniquement, je suis un cousin perdu depuis longtemps du côté de Montmartre-Augustin, mais je suis aussi leur frère. (I'm Ivo Matthias Augustin-Fischer.  Technically, I'm a long lost cousin from the Montmartre-Augustin side, but I'm their brother as well.) " the Chergarian blacksmith and mechanic added,  grinned, and gently tapped Marie's right shoulder, making her tickle and twitch.

" Je m'appelle Marie Svetlana Montmartre. Je suis leur plus jeune sœur. Nous sommes heureux de vous rencontrer, vous et votre famille, Torsten. (My name's Marie Svetlana Montmartre. I'm their youngest sister. We are glad to meet you and your family, Torsten.) " the future lawyer chimed in and laughed at her older brothers' antics, turning to them. " Ivo, Pierre, arrèt sil vous plait! (Ivo, Pierre, please stop!)  "

The two brothers snickered and made a high-five. Nirvana softly chuckled at them and introduced herself, " I'm sorry for these two. They just always pick on her. I'm Nirvana Felsong, a former patient and a family friend of the Montmartres. "

" And Pierre's girlfriend! " Marie cheerfully mused.

" Nani?! (What?!) "

Nirvana and Pierre both blushed and chuckled as Ivo made another high five to Marie for her humorous retorts.

“ C’est un plaisir de vous rencontrer tous.(It’s nice to meet you all.) ” Torsten said as he try to speak Franken.

" C'est agréable d'entendre un étranger qui parle Franken. (It's nice to hear a foreigner who speaks Franken.) " Ivo replied. " You'll get used to it once you spent years here, Ja? "

“ I’ve been trying to learn Franken for the longest now. I still have some struggles here and there. ” Torsten explained.

" I knew that feeling when I first got here from Chergaria. Learning another language aside from your mother tongue and Neo-Yddrassi could be a challenge, but you will be benefited from it. "

“ Ja. I’m just too used to Neo-Yddrassi and Palgish.” Torsten said in agreement.

" No worries, Torsten, you will be getting there, " Pierre assured.

" Dinner's ready, Bon Appetit! " Monika called everyone.

Torsten went to take a seat at the table before his gesturing his family to join him. The Jørgensens and the rest of the Montmartre household had gathered around the table. Amnon had let his wife eat first and carried his daughter, feeding her from the bottle of his wife's breastmilk. He sat on the living room and watched them.

" You guys can go ahead, " he echoed and continued feeding his baby. " Father duties. "

For those who were eating, the table was full of Palgish and Foranean food. Various meals consisted of meat, fish, and vegetables were being served. They enjoyed ingesting and discussing things about Palgirlund, Foranea, Akrovia, and other nations in Iliad.

Amnon overheard their discussions while feeding his eight day old baby in his arms. He sighed and recalled those days which he was out of Foranea. The dinner and conversation reminded him of his contractor guild friends from Odyssea Academy. Emie continued drinking and intrigued at her father's facial expression.

" You may not understand this, Emie. I missed some of my old friends, " he said to her. " I guess they are having good lives after Odyssea Academy. When you grow up, you will meet friends as they come and go into your life. It's important to spend time with anyone, but of course family is more important than anybody. Oui?  "

“ There are times when I miss my home country and friends I haven’t seen for a long time. Perhaps, one day I’ll return to Palgilrund for a bit.” Torsten said to Amnon.

" It's very nostalgic to see you all like this, " the Akrovian-Foranean general practitioner admitted while feeding his little daughter. " It reminded me those days when I was working in Odyssea Academy and its contractor guild. Everyone was eating their meals in groups and discussing a lot of things about their lives and missions across Iliad. Now, I have just told my daughter. If she grows up, she has to spend time with anyone and even the family. Well, priorities change when a man or a woman deals and raises a youngster. "

“ Family and friends mean everything. Without those we’re nothing, ” Torsten added.

" Da, " Amnon nodded as Emie finished drinking her milk. He picked up a towel, placing on his right shoulder. He carried his baby like she was standing on her father's arms. Emie placed her chin as her father's shoulder. He was carefully rubbing her back in circular motion." It is true. I have experienced homesickness almost a year before returning home. Now, I'm thankful of seeing my family and meeting some new friends and patients. "

“ I’m thankful as well to have friends with you and your wife, ” Torsten smiled at Amnon.

" Well, we won't let a fellow mage and Odyssea Academy alumnus down. We all came from the same alma mater from the clouds. "

Torsten nodded in agreement. “ Ja, we did.”

" It's proven effective, Torsten."

Suddenly, Emie burped and softly chuckled at her father. Amnon heavily sighed and said to her in Franken, " Ta mère et moi devons t'apprendre quelques bonnes manières quand tu seras plus grand. Vous ne pouvez pas roter comme ça, jeune femme. (Your mother and I need to teach you some manners when you grow older. You can't just burp that way, young lady.) " Emie smiled and laughed at him. Amnon seriously replied, " Qu'est ce qu'il y a de si drôle? Je ne voulais pas être drôle, Esmeralda Joanna. (What's so funny? I didn't mean to be funny, Esmeralda Joanna.) " She burped again and laughed as her father sighed and chuckled, kissing her forehead. " Children..."

“ Perhaps Emie is trying to be a singer just like her parents,” Torsten joked.

" Or a perhaps another future singing doctor. "

Torsten laughed at what Amnon said. “ That too.”

Emie cooed and smiled at her father. Just then, Glenda finished eating and approached her spouse. She looked at him and said, " I left you your share, so you can eat now. "

" She has finished her bottle and made a satisfying song number, " Amnon replied and passed the baby to his wife.

Just then, Henrik and Espen looked at their nephew and his colleague. Torsten, Amnon, and Glenda exchanged glances.

" That was wonderful time to hear the stories of Danilovsky-Montmartre family, " Henrik broke his silence.

" I know, I wish Torshàvn and Lykke were here with us, " Espen answered.

[Montnau, Foranea: 9:40 PM]

" Que diable font ces foutus Chergariens dans ce pays? Vont-ils répéter la même chose qu’ils avaient fait en Robanie? (What on Iliad are those damned Chergarians doing in this country? Are they going to repeat the same thing they had done in Robania?) "

Erica, you and your wife heard the elderly man's rant in Franken which you could understand his frustration. Matthijs, you were just travelling all the way from Hurroka which you were looking for your father who had lived in this country. The bartender and owner just listened to him as he had nothing to respond for such resolution.

" What's he muttering about, Cherry blossom? " Erica whispered to her wife.

" He's ranting about the Umbrals and the Chergarians, " a dark haired woman answered.

" I felt sorry for him. He would have lost his home from those attacks. "

“ The Umbrals is still plaguing this country? I though it' S gotten better, ” Matthijs curiously asked.

" Finally, someone is listening to me, " the irrate old man scoffed and took another sip of wine. " So, you three want to hear more stories, oui?  Care enough to lend you an ear? "

Matthijs smiled at the old man before speaking, “ Sure, I’m currently taking a break from a long day traveling to this country.”

" The pests have only attacked the right portion of the city, they've haven't reached this secter yet." Erica announced.

" We lost our home in Saint-Rose, " Yurika sadly sighed. " My wife and I are relocated here. We are planning to move to Monoceros Keep very soon. "

" See? " the old man interjected. " I lost my farm as my wife and I got ourselves here. I saw the face of the madman and his hooded companion. They summoned disasters. I don't think it's a good idea to go to Monoceros Keep. "

“ What is this madman and his hooded companion are you speaking of? ” Matthijs asked.

" I saw the face of that hooded one. He happened to be a living skeleton and threatened me with a blade from his legbone. Then, the madman was a Chergarian Leanan Sidhe who caused a sudden earthquake and a strong molten rock spewing from the fissure," he explained. " They both killed everyone in the town. "

" Warui desho. (That's bad.) " Yurika anxiously muttered in Beirunese.

" I can't understand what you're saying mademoiselle, but those Umbral-bound monsters are everywhere. I am telling you that. You guys don't want to see the situation from the Fortress City as well. "

Matthijs widened his eyes in disbelief, “ That doesn’t sound good at all. Is there any places left in Foranea that are safe or untouched by the Umbral activity? ”

" The towns of Aveline and here in Montnau. We are safer than anywhere else, " the old man replied.

" Do you guys wanna hear some scoop? " a blonde man in his late forties asked and had his cigarette, puffing and holding a glass of wine.

" I don't think this old man can give you some reliable information. He won't be telling you the facts! "

" Pardon moi, monsieur?! You're telling me that I am unreliable?! I have witnessed how these madmen destroyed my house and my whole my farm a week ago?! Are you insulting me?! " the elderly man raised his voice and stood up, daring him to fight.

" Ojīsama... I mean, monsieur! Please...stop fighting, you two! " Yurika stood beside the two men bickering each other.

The snarky blonde man relented and heavily sighed, " D'accord...Fine! If you all guys wanna hear my story aside from the old geezer, then I'll do it! "

Erica, Yurika, and Matthijs along with the other pub patrons. The irrate senior sat down and also sighed, sipping his wine glass. They were patiently anticipating to the mocking blonde man's story.

" A month ago, the town of Martinnois was shaken when another freak of nature murdered the entire prison. Criminals and the warden were all facing their bloodpool. The cops have been investigating where that murderer has been. No one knows if he has gone in the towns or joined with his friends from the Umbral Cult, " he continued. " Now, the other madmen have come to decimate the town. "

" Have you witnessed it? " Erica asked.

" Oui, I saw them in very own eyes, mademoiselle. I was there before I got relocated here. That's a valid statement from a damned credible witness like me! "

The elderly man rolled his eyes and facepalmed to his disgust at the egoistic blonde. He couldn't tolerate to hear such hubris from him. Erica and Yurika just stared at the haughty smoker and remained dead silent.

“ Wait?! Martinnois?! That’s where my parents are at! I need to go there to see if they’re alright!” Matthijs anxiously said in concern before quickly standing up from his seat.

" Look, garçon, " the elderly man sighed and calmly spoke at the red headed Hurro. "   They have been either relocated or remained, but I'm sure they're safe somewhere else. "

“ Nee (No), I still need to make sure they’re alright. Is there a way for me to contact Martinnois? ” Matthijs worriedly asked the old man.

"Well, I have a nephew named Gaston, " he said. " He usually comes into the pub at this hour. I'm going to give you a heads up on this young man. He's an arrogant one, but reliable. "

Matthijs nodded at the old man. “ Thanks for the warning. Is Gaston here now? ”

" He'll be here any minute. "

“ Bedankt (Thank You).” Matthijs gratefully said.

A tall muscular man with an arm cast arrived at the pub. On his right hand, it was a rifle. He looked very intimidating to the others. His uncle sighed in relief which his nephew approached him.

" Oncle Henri, je suis de retour! Bonsoir (Uncle Henri, I'm back! Bonsoir!) " the dark haired happily beamed at the old man who was holding a wine glass.

" Oh, pour l'amour du ciel, Gaston! Avez-vous déjà vu un médecin?! Votre bras est censé récupérer et fonctionner. Ne me dis pas, tu le repousses! (Oh, for Heavens' sakes, Gaston! Have you ever seen a doctor?! Your arm is supposed to be recovering and functioning. Don't tell me, you postponing it!) " Henri worryingly exclaimed.

" Qui a besoin d’un contrôle?! Je vais parfaitement bien! En plus, je suis à la recherche de ces méchants! Tout ce dont j'ai besoin c'est d'un bon verre de vin rouge! (Who needs a check-up?! I'm perfectly fine! Besides, I've been scouting for those bad guys! All I need is a nice glass of red wine!) " Gaston  proudly responded and sat down on the barstool and turned to the bartender, but he got hindered by his uncle and sighed. " Oh, viens, oncle Henri ! Assez avec votre regard effrayant! ( Oh, come one, Uncle Henri! Enough with that creepy glare of yours!) "

“ Is that Gaston? ” Matthijs curiously asked.

" 'Oui.' He's a very humble nephew of mine..." Henri exasperatedly sighed and watched the man ordering a bottle of wine.

" I don't think he's that humble enough, " Erica sighed.

" I agree..." Yurika facepalmed.

“ I’ll try to talk to him. I need his help in contacting my parents, ” Matthijs said to Erica and Yurika.

" Good luck, " Erica replied.

The dark haired man intently looked at the red headed Hurro and smirked. He was holding a glass of wine.  Matthijs, you were deeply composing your thoughts and keeping calm and composed. You were ignoring his prideful attitude and thinking to confront him civilisedly.

" So, what is it that I can help? " he asked.

" I heard you could assist me in contacting my parents in Martinnois. It would put my mind in ease knowing they’re safe, " Matthijs answered.

" Oh, that..." Gaston snapped his fingers and sighed " They got were supposed to be relocated into another town, but not in Martinnois, Màçon, and in Sainte-Rose. I  didn't see them in Tournefeuille, 15 miles away from Monoceros Keep. I assume they have remained there."

“ Did they stay in Tournefeuille or moved on? ” Matthijs asked with concern.

" They haven't moved in, " he nonchalantly spoke and then sadly sighed. " However your mother seems to be ill. "

“ What?! How is she ill?!” Matthijs asked with disbelief.

" I saw her bedridden. Your father plans to take her into the hospital even the city is very dangerous, " Gaston seriously spoke.

“ Do you know how long it’ll take to arrive at Tournefeuille or Martinnois? ” Matthijs asked.

" Two hours from here, " Gaston spoke. " What's your name? "

“ Matthijs Brouwer, ” he answered.

Gaston placed his right arm and began contemplating to continue his drinking spree and boast of his monitoring activities. He looked at his uncle, the two wives, and other pub patrons. He started to feeling an intense conflict and making him very consciencious. He heavily sighed and recalled of the blacksmith and his ill wife from Hurroka upon hearing the traveller's last name.

" Brouwer..." he instantly broke his silence. "  Now, tell me. Are you related to Isaak and Aleid Brouwer? "

Matthijs nodded at Gaston’s question. “Ja. They’re my parents.”

" Look, it's dangerous to travel in the evening. Umbral creatures may be everywhere. Then, some madmen might attack us along the way, " Henri reminded. " I suggest to meet your parents tomorrow morning. "

" Who knows, you may encounter the same madmen again, " Erica interjected.

" Hai, sodes. (Yes, that's right.) " Yurika added.

Matthijs sighed in frustration. “Okay, I’ll head out tomorrow then.”

" Listen, Matthijs. We want to keep everyone safe, " Gaston explained. " In the past few days, we have been terrorised by those madmen. We don't want anyone to get hurt. Now, look at me. I got attacked by hyponitised people at the circus in Monoceros Keep. I never wanted to let that happen again. Here I am, I got injured and never been to the doctor for the second time after I was discharged. "

" I understand, I just want my parents to be safe is all. Foranea is quickly falling into chaos and no one is doing anything about it, ” Matthijs said with frustration.

" Unless someone has to fight back for us, " a voice echoed who happened to be a man sitting on the barstool and drinking a glass of wine.

Matthijs curiously looked at the man sitting on the barstool before speaking. “ Who are you?”

A medium length green haired man in his early forties gave Matthijs a warm smile and a salute, " Bonsoir! My name's Matau Voland, a pleasure to meet you. You're not from here, oui? "

" It’s a pleasure to meet you, Matau. I’m Matthijs Brouwer. I came here to Foranea to visit my parents and to find a man and his group that aided us in undoing the curse of unending winter. I’m originally from Hurroka.” He said before smiling.

" So, you will thank them for saving your country from such a harsh winter. Intèrrèsant! " Matau smiled back in remarked and pondered. " But I still don't know who that man and his friends are. Perhaps, I can come with your journey to find him and also I am still searching for where my friends have been. If it's okay with you both? "

Gaston looked at Matthijs and then to the green haired one. Then, he asked," And what can we do about this? "

" Well, for starters, we do have the same enemies and terrorizers, " he explained. " Matthijs has clearly said he wanted to see his parents and then the man he mentioned. Secondly, I will also need to find my friends which we have never seen for quite a while. Thirdly, I need to find the man called the Blue Knight. "

“ I don’t mind both of you coming along with me. There will be a lot of traveling, so I suggest preparing before we head out tomorrow.” Matthijs added.

" Très Bien! " Matau grinned. " I have been longing for another journey since I remained here for sometime..." Then, he  heavily sighed, " I am also in hiding from our enemies. "

" What do you mean you're hiding? " Gaston asked.

" I used to be one of them before. It's very complicated to explain. My friend Vakama has known all of our previous exploits. I'm very ashamed to disclose everything. "

“ You used to be one of them? Does anyone else in the tavern know of this? ” Matthijs asked with concern.

" Well, not all. I need to do some atonement from my past sins. Before I became one of them, I used to be in la force aérienne (the air force)  and enjoyed flying fighter planes, but now...I don't know if I can fly for the second time. "

" So, you're a fly boy before? " Henri asked.

" Oui, monsieur. I have forgotten everything when I joined the...." he paused and sighed, depressingly dismissing. "...Nevermind. "

“ Maybe this journey could aid you in healing and atoning your past mistakes and regrets, ” Matthijs optimistically said to Matau.

Matau deeply pondered about Matthijs's words and sincerely smiled, " Oui, it could be a life-changing dream-travel so to speak. Merci! "

" Well, why not talk and confess with the priest, Father Mar-Vell Agapov, " Erica suggested. " Once you come to Monoceros Keep, you can visit the Church of Saint Isaiah. "

" Oui, I might as well go there to. "

" Or get a check-up with the stern doctor whom I met at Monoceros Keep General Hospital before, " Gaston added.

" Pardon moi? (Excuse me?) Did you say 'stern doctor?' " Matau nervously gulped and asked.

" Oui. I met him once I almost brawled with a tall elven man. Then, he stopped us from fighting and getting injured."

" What's his name? "

" His name is Docteur Montmartre. "

" Oh, I've never heard of Montmartre, " the sarcastic blonde smoker scoffed. " I'm sure he's gonna nag me to death during my check-up. "

“ I know Dr. Montmartre. He’s a good friend back in our Odyssea Academy days, ” Matthijs said to Gaston as he recognized the name.

" My relative's cousin is married to the famed Doctor, " Erica replied." His reputation proceeds him greatly." She slowly slides a hand on her wife's arm, and smiles back to her.

" I haven't met this man before, " Yurika added.

" I see, " Matau nodded. " I'd better met this man, oui? "

Henri looked at his nephew and the others and said, " You know what I am thinking, everyone? Since you gather yourselves in one common cause. Why not form a group which you could fight against our enemies and possibly future ones? "

" Myself and my wife, arrn't properly trained in the arms of combat." Erica placed both her hands on her waist." Maybe a secretive outing, can be set, on making a training session, for all of us? "

" I wish Vakama and the others are with us, " Matau sighed. " Nokama has settled her life as a mother to her son and lost her spouse. "

" Well, Oncle Henri, perhaps, I should be the leader of this resistance group, " Gaston proudly exclaimed.

" You, a resistance leader? " Henri doubtfully asked. " I know you have been an experienced soldier back in Foranean Army. I don't mean to discredit you, my nephew. We need someone who could be more credible and worthy enough to lead us. "

“ I’m ain’t much of a fighter myself, just a Odyssea Academy graduate.” Matthijs added.

" Perhaps, looking for a leader could be one of our quests,
oui?  " Matau suggested. " Or someone who could train us to be capable for self-defense and combat? "

" Non, I'm too old for this to be honest, " Henri sighed. " I have retired from the Army since year 388. "

“ Do you know anyone who could train us to be decent in combat? ” Matthijs asked Henri.

" Well, I met befriended a man named Jonathan Baudin. He could be a good trainer. Not sure if he has retired, " Henri replied.

" Yes, he could be one, but I think I need to find my former superior back in my Air Force days, " Matau suggested. " I need to speak to Jusis Vandark. He might help us. "

" Back a little of 10 years ago, my wife used to be a former captain of the police force." Erica added in." She can lend in her contacts to assist."

" That was in Beirun, " Yurika replied. " But let's see what I can do. "

" Okay, everyone. This is a lot to take in, " Gaston broke his silence. " I'm going to take Matthijs to Tournefeuille or Martinnois along with Matau going to Monoceros Keep. Then, we can try to find who could train us and find a leader of the resistance group. "

" Learning a few tips and tricks from you, Cherry Blossom, is a wholesome experience of learning to fight, from your lectures." Erica smiled back to her wife.

" Hai. " Yurika nodded and turned to her wife. " But I guess we can start as well? "

" I guess this is settled, oui? " Matau looked at Matthijs, Gaston, and Henri.

" Surely, it is, " Gaston nodded no furiously.

" This is just a beginning for everyone of us, but we need to brace ourselves for what will happen next, " Henri said and turned to Matthijs. " You still have more time to see your parents and reuniting with your old friend. "

“ Once that’s done, we can all begin our training in combat. Until then, let’s prepare for our journey tomorrow morning.” Matthijs said to Henri.

" Très bien. (Very well.) It's about time to fight for our own  future despite what the odds are. "

(RP with BjornGamR27 and Knightfall077 along with their characters)

(La foule and Non, je ne regrette rien performed by Èdith Piaf)

(La vie en Rose performed by Michael Bublè and Cècile McLorin Salvant)