xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

It was twilight.

He was overlooking the lake, without focusing on anything in particular, when the wind carried a voice to him. One of his ears folded in its direction, and then the rest of his body followed.

“Greetings, Wolf King! It is a pleasure to finally meet you! I'm the new Great Stag.”

He narrowed his eyes with a puzzled expression. “But you’re a doe.”

She chuckled, amused. “In the Herd, whoever can best lead and protect everyone receives the Antlers. I believe the same is true for the Crown in your Pack, yes?”

“... Indeed, it is.”

A silence settled between them, and after a while, the Great Stag cleared her throat. “I will get going, then. Thank you for your time. Be well, Wolf King.”

“Be well, Great Stag,” he replied, watching as she walked away. There was a large scar over the left side of her face, but what really caught his eye were her Antlers; truly majestic, a crown in their own way.

***

“How did it go, my child? Did you meet the new Great Stag?”

“Yes, Pap- Elder, but… she is a doe.”

“A mighty one, no doubt, if she has received the Antlers.”

***

She peered over the pasture, ears perked up and eyes sharp. All seemed well, until she picked up a scent that meant no good. The Great Stag immediately ran ahead, gesturing heavily, but trying to make no sound. Those who caught on moved out at once, while she circled back to warn the others.

The helpless cry of a fawn made her turn around, towards the lake. The Great Stag managed to get between it and its pursuer. A large, gray-and-tan wolf bared its fangs, ready to pounce. She lowered her head, and steadied her arms.

A whistle, however, was enough for the wolf to back down, and away, towards the tree line. Not far from there, sitting on a rocky hill, the bright golden eyes of the Wolf King focused on the lake shore. Without a word, he returned to the Den, in the thickest part of the woods.

***

Even though it was freezing, he couldn’t help being outside. It was one of those times when the night sky lit up with electric greens. The form of a Higher One allowed for so many new experiences, and ever since he was given the Crown, this became his favorite one. Out of habit, the Wolf King went down to the lake. After all, it was even more breathtaking when it reflected on dark waters.

To his surprise, there was someone already there, looking up at the sky. Her ears flickered as he approached.

“Greetings, Great Stag.”

“Greetings, Wolf King. Did you come to see the Norðrljós (1) too?”

“‘Norðrljós’? Is that their name?”

“That’s what the Raven called them the night I received the Antlers. They said it was a coincidence, as they come and go frequently… but I like to think something special happens when they light up the sky.”

The Wolf King crossed his arms, lowering his gaze from the Norðrljós to her. “Like what?”

“Oh, I don’t know. I didn’t mean to say that it happens to me,” the Great Stag replied, looking back at him. Her eyes were bright silver, like two full moons stolen from the sky. “You have my gratitude.”

“For what?”

“For calling off the wolf pursuing that fawn. Poor young one, trembled all the way back.”

“There’s no need to thank me. A fawn so small would not feed many. Besides, I’d rather not lose a member of the Pack to the Great Stag. Our numbers must not dwindle.”

She nodded. “The form of a Higher One gives so much knowledge and understanding, every day I learn something new. Like now, I learned the Wolf King is kind.”

He scoffed, an awkward smile on his lips. “You are a strange one, Great Stag. Your predecessor would have left the moment he heard me.”

“Indeed… Does it bother you?”

“I am at peace with it.”

“Then I hope we can speak again soon,” she said, nodding as she smiled. “Be well, Wolf King.”

“Be well, Great Stag.”

***

When there was a chance, and sometimes even when there wasn’t, they managed to find each other and share some time together. Once again, they met by the lake shore to see the Norðrljós.

The Wolf King reached out and gently caressed her left cheek. “May I ask where this scar came from?”

“I was just a fawn, cornered by one of you, mighty wolves. I thought my end was near, but I somehow managed to see another day,” the Great Stag explained, noticing the Wolf King was not actually looking at her scar.

“As expected, you truly have… doe eyes…” he said, lost in thought.

The Great Stag leaned in with a smile. “Wolf King, up close, you’re quite handsome.”

The Wolf King’s ears immediately perked up, and a light blush spread through his cheeks. “Those are kind words, considering the Great Stag holds great beauty.”

Her ears lowered, taken aback. “Beauty? With a scar like this?”

“A scar that shows the Herd you understand their struggles, even though the Antlers now protect you from harm. You faced pain and near death as a fawn, yet retain a gentle nature. Indeed, the Great Stag holds great beauty.”

There was a pause, and then a gentle kiss. They parted, staring into each other's eyes; the amber gaze of the Wolf King, and the silver moons of the Great Stag. A sparkle shone in both of them.

***

“Regardless of the relationship between you, our Pack will never stop hunting the Herd. You understand this, my child?”

“Yes, Elder. The Great Stag has never requested otherwise.”

“Nor will she. The Great Stag also understands. However, the Pack will not grow from this either. A doe…

"Is unable to bear my pups. I understand… I will choose a Queen when the time is right."

***

A loud crack froze the Herd in place as an incredibly sharp pain went through the Great Stag’s skull. All eyes were on her, and each face seemed stunned in horror. Panting, she sprinted as fast as she could to the lake’s shore. Her reflection showed the right Antler was covered in fissures. Another loud crack did the same to the left.

The Great Stag’s scream was heard all over the land, even in the Den in the thickest part of the woods. The Wolf King immediately took off, stumbling a few times as he hurried under the bright green sky. It didn’t take long to spot her, collapsed near the water. He helped her up, and felt a shiver as the blood stained his hands.

“What is happening? Are the Antlers punishing you? Did I… cause this?”

A part of the left antler broke apart and seemed to explode in a million pieces. The Great Stag let out another soul-crushing scream.

“We do not know… this has never… happened before,” the bases of both antlers were bleeding profusely onto her face. She cupped his cheek with a feeble smile. “Even if it was because of you… I have no regrets.”

The Great Stag grew weak, fainting from the pain as another piece broke off and disintegrated. Terribly afraid of what this might mean, the Wolf King carried her back to the Den, out of breath. "Papa! Something's wrong!"

The big, older wolf came into the light. His fur had gone gray with time, but the blue eyes remained as bright as ever.

The Wolf King kneeled. "Please, help her."

The Elder let out a deep sigh. "I don't know how. The Antlers are not from the Pack, their rules are a mystery to me."

"The Herd doesn't know what is happening either! What should we do?"

"My child, what you should not have done is bring her to the Den," the Elder said, melting back into the shadows. "The Great Stag's blood is still prey's blood, and there are nothing but hunters here."

The Wolf King suddenly noticed the growls all around him, humbly asking for a piece to nibble on. He left immediately, sprinting to reach the spot by the lake once again. Every time a part of the Antlers broke off, strands both in her hair and in her tail bleached white and the Great Stag would let out a weak groan.

“I don’t know how to help you,” the Wolf King sniffled, holding her hand.

Her eyes half-opened, and fixed on his. After a great effort, the Great Stag’s lips managed to curl into a feverish smile.

“Maybe you can’t, and that is alright. If I must go, either back to my simple form, or away forever, I’m glad it’s beholding what I love the most. The Norðrljós… and you.”

The last of the Antlers crumbled and disappeared. She would probably revert to her regular doe appearance soon, and be lost within the Herd, awaiting death once again. The Great Stag was trembling greatly, but did not move, nor say anything else. The Wolf King laid her on the snow and held her close, gently kissing her lips.

“I will stay with you until this is done, dear one. For the love we share, and that I will carry with me until the last of my days.”

***

He couldn’t recall falling asleep, and jerked himself awake. The Great Stag was still there, in the form he had always known her for, but something was amiss. A long, fluffy tail, not unlike his, replaced the short one, and her ears… her ears had moved up, and changed shape. Even the colors of the furs she always wore had faded. She was completely still.

The Great Stag was, somehow, not a deer anymore, and he wasn't the only one who noticed. There was a loud flap of wings around them. Ravens saw everything, and remembered plenty, but kept little to themselves. "Ahh, so you've finally chosen."

"What do you mean?"

"Exactly what I just said. You chose her, is that not so?"

"I- I do prefer her over other mates, yes."

"And so, the Antlers have gone away, away, away for another deer to lead the Herd."

"Oh… It really was because of me. Her pain and suffering, I caused them all."

“That much is true, true, true.”

The Wolf King quietly sobbed over the former Great Stag, and was noticeably spooked when she cupped his cheek with a feeble smile. “Up close, you really are quite handsome.”

He immediately embraced her, while the Raven cackled on a branch above them. “You chose, but her head cannot hold both the Crown and the Antlers, so one of them has gone away, away, away.”

“The… the Crown rejects the Antlers?”

"Choice! The Pack cannot prosper with just a King, he must have a mate. The Herd is safest under the Great Stag's watchful gaze. AND YET! You both left these matters behind to be with one another. All that has happened was due to your choices, choices, choices!"

"Is it… is it alright with you?" The Wolf King asked, holding her hand. "To leave your Herd?"

"It is too late to ask," she replied, giving him a meaningful squeeze. The color was slowly returning to her cheeks. "I had already chosen you, so the Antlers-"

"Went away, away, away!"

"I see… Both the Crown and the Antlers follow their holder's will…"

The Wolf King helped her wash away the blood from her face. She noticed two things reflected in the dark waters; one was the remnants of the Norðrljós, and the other was that her ears and most of her hair, just like her tail, were now snow white.

He helped her up. “Come on, let’s go home to the Pack so you can rest.”

“But… how should I present myself now?”

The Raven interrupted. “Isn’t it obvious?”

***

“Great Elder of the Pack, may I introduce the new Wolf Queen?”

The old wolf’s eyes shone with approval. There was honest joy in his laughter. “A white Queen, no less!”

As a fawn, and even as the Great Stag, she had always felt a healthy fear of wolves. The mere sight of them put her on guard, and yet, now that so many were around, there was no more fear in her heart, just a familiar desire to keep them all safe.

The Wolf King guided her to the Elder’s side and whispered, not without surprise. “No one seems to recognize her.”

“Recognize who? Before you left, you were carrying the Great Stag in your arms. Now, you come hand in hand with the Wolf Queen. Much has happened in that time, but to those who don’t sport he form of a Higher One, or Elders like me, it will remain unseen.”

“The… the Raven saw. Won’t they say something?” the Wolf Queen asked quietly.

“Ravens see everything, my child, but worry not. Those who hear their whispers will not mind.”

***

It was twilight.

The Wolf King stirred, and immediately shuddered when he noticed no one by his side. However, before he could fully panic, his eyes fixed on a ghostly silhouette at the Den’s entrance.

“I did not hear you wake,” he said, sitting by her side.

“You’re not alone in that regard, dear one,” she replied, briefly looking back at all the other sleeping wolves. “Has the moon always been so bright? I can't seem to stop staring at it.”

“Me neither,” the Wolf King said, not looking up, but deep into her eyes.

They shared a kiss, and then leaned into each other, admiring how the moonlight shone brightly over the land. Deep in their hearts, they realized that something special certainly happens whenever the Norðrljós light up the sky.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

(1) Norðrljós: lit. “Northern Lights'' in Icelandic.

xxxxxxxxx

“Hey, uhm, was it wrong of me to hang out with Artica all those times?”

“Nah, but it was foolish to not think a little harder about how it was perceived.”

“If I had the choice, I would like to go out with Artica every time.”

“Alright, that’s a start,” Bud nodded. “Now you just have to tell’er that.”

Fenrir saw him chuckle; no doubt because he suddenly grew very tense. “I’m not very good with… expressing myself. I can’t imagine how you did it.”

Bud displayed a cocky grin. “I wouldn’t compare; we have vastly different personalities.”

Fenrir sighed in agreement.

“I didn’t accept Karianne's advances because she’s physically attractive (she is, but that wasn’t it). K has such a fiery personality and isn't afraid to show it. She’ll argue you into the ground if she believes she’s right. I really like that, especially in a Blue. You people always want to talk it out. Sometimes you have to punch it out.”

Fenrir had a slight frown. “I hope you’re not punching it out with her, though.”

“Not like that…” Bud replied in a whisper. “Anyway, what are you going to do about Artica? You are interested, right? And is that enough for you to want to focus on her for a while or will you move on sooner rather than later?”

“Huh? What’s that supposed to mean?”

Bud chastised himself, aware he let his mouth run a little more than he intended. Artica was his priority here; if Fenrir was not particularly committed, he wouldn’t encourage him any longer. “As we established before, you went on ‘very likely’ dates with a few others, and then with Artica.”

“I already told you I’d choose her over them.”

“For how long?”

“I don’t know. For how long are you gonna date Karianne, huh?” Fenrir spat back, annoyed. “I don’t know jack shit about any of this. It’s already humiliating to learn I’m socially inept, stop making it seem like I do it on purpose.”

The Black raised his eyebrows with a hint of guilt.

“Sorry, I got a little carried away... I want the following to be very clear: don’t engage carelessly without at least contemplating what’ll happen. When someone gives you expectations and fails to meet them, it’s difficult to swallow. Let’s say you start dating someone, and when they’re with you, they call you sweet names, but when they talk to others, you instantly become 'just someone from school'. That would suck, right?”

“A lot, yeah…”

“Alright, so try to think of the right wording for the right situation, in order to be clear. If you ask Artica out with the specific intent of dating her, then say that. ‘Hey, do you wanna go on a date with me?’. That’s much clearer than saying ‘Wanna go to the arcade?’”

Bud packed his stuff in his bag and turned around. “That’s the only thing I would ask of you; always be clear. If at the end of the day, it turns out you don’t like her enough to date, I get it, but make sure to let her know.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“How’s it going?”

“All good, son, just finished packing. Hope I didn’t forget anything.”

“No worries, Dad. Anything you need, just say so. Syd and I will handle it.”

Sannfrid let out a chuckle. “Last year, you avoided his name in every possible way, and now you team up for birthday parties. You’ve come very far, Bud, I’m so proud of you.”

The teenager wrapped his arms around him with a relieved sigh. A little over a year ago, his father had been gravely ill, and it was only the kind offer from his biological parents, that he now knew was Syd’s idea, that helped him get better faster. Bud was grateful for many things, but that was the biggest one.

“Thanks, Dad.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

"Everyone, may I have a moment of your time?"

The staff quieted down and gave the young master their undivided attention.

"As we have discussed, three of our guests this week are not as deeply familiar with etiquette as the others; my older twin brother Bud, the man who raised him Sannfrid, and our mutual friend Artica. I humbly ask you to be patient and understanding with them and help if they seem to be struggling. Regarding the last person I mentioned, there is one more thing…"

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

"Oh, gods, her face!" Hejne whispered and was immediately elbowed in the ribs by his young master.

"What did I say? Pray she did not hear that, or you will help me clean my piano more often!"

Awfully aware of how slow, tedious, and absolutely boring that was, Hejne gave him a mortified nod. He lined up with three other youths and an older man waiting behind their young master. Karianne and Rúri ran to them immediately. Syd gathered his other four guests for introductions.

“Hejne is my gentleman-in-waiting, and for this week, yours too,” he told Bud, then turned to Sannfrid. “Gudvin will assist you, sir, and Hanka will help Artica out.”

Hejne was a lively boy with brown hair and a small birthmark on his right cheek. Gudvin seemed solemn and kind, safe to approach. Hanka, on the other hand, was a dark-haired girl with sharp eyes and a very serious demeanor.

Bud, visibly uncomfortable, cleared his throat. “Is this in any way optional?”

“Not for you three, I am afraid. Things between a city manor and a family manor work very differently. It is better if you have direct assistance to navigate this,” Syd explained. “For you, however, it is.”

Fenrir felt all eyes on him and immediately prayed the ground would swallow him up, but the gods had never answered him before, so it was pointless to hope they would now. “I’m fine by myself, thank you.”

“Oh, alright. We were not sure if you would bring your own gentleperson-in-waiting…”

“Uh, no,” Fenrir replied and diverted his eyes elsewhere. As if the gods decided to compromise, Karianne and Rúri suddenly interrupted, stealing the attention away from him.

“This is Paolo! My gentleman-in-waiting!” Karianne announced in a joyful tone. “Oh, I have missed you, sweetie. I am so glad you could come with Father. Where is Father, though?”

“Lord Ulrich is to arrive on the morrow, my lady, along with Lady Paulfrid,” Paolo answered at once. His complexion was somewhat darker than the average Asgardian, with dark blond hair in waves and darker shades of green in his eyes. He even looked tanned, which was highly uncommon among those living in the Asgardian Principality. The most interesting thing about him was, however, his overall, utterly relaxed demeanor.

Rúri took the hand of the girl next to her and gave her a spin, so her long skirt swirled around her. “Ritva is my lady-in-waiting. Such a sweetheart, I hope you will get along well.”

Ritva’s kind eyes were partially obscured by her platinum blonde hair. As everyone introduced themselves, Artica noticed they all did the same thing when greeting her and couldn’t help letting out a sigh. This was going to be a long visit.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“A pleasure to see you, Sannfrid, thank you greatly for accepting our invitation,” Lord Baldrek said.

“Thank you for hosting me once again, my Lord, it is an honor,” he replied, returning his handshake firmly with a deep bow.

After witnessing this, Bud scouted for the next moment he was available to whisper into his ear. “You've been here before?”

“Twice, yeah. The first time was when they decided to take advantage of the legal reform, so they contacted your legal guardian (me), and the second time was before they reached out to you directly.”

His son raised an eyebrow. Sannfrid did mention meeting his parents beforehand and discussing the whole thing, but not that it was here in the Viking Tiger family manor. It didn’t really matter, yet it now made sense why his father hadn’t been nervous to come all the way here. He even greeted Gudvin with familiarity.

After the never-ending formalities, they were finally shown to their rooms. The twins and their partners were located to the left of the dining hall, while Sannfrid, Fenrir, and Artica had to go right. Their quarters seemed the same; a room so wide it fit an enormous bed, a pair of armchairs around an elegant tea table in front of the fireplace, and a finely carved desk next to the window. The bathroom was equally wide, with both a bathtub and a shower.

“This place’s ridiculous.”

Artica meant it in a good way, but got nothing more than a side-eye from Hanka, who had followed her inside. The lady-in-waiting pointed to the enormous closet and made quick hand gestures.

‘Please use this space for your clothing and shoes. If you require a thicker coat, or better insulated boots, let me know.’

The Black nodded, and got it over within ten minutes, which was just about right considering she hadn’t brought (and didn’t actually own) that many etiquette-appropriate outfits. Artica looked around before sitting on the bed.

‘What are the family manor rules I must not forget? Aside from regular etiquette, I mean.’

‘You may use common areas like the library, tearoom, and courtyards at your leisure. Eating and event areas only at designated times-‘

‘Library?!’ her eyes sparkled at the thought, but Hanka didn’t seem to appreciate her interruption. ‘Sorry, please continue.’

‘Private quarters cannot be entered unless the user explicitly invites you. It is prohibited and has strong consequences.’

Syd suddenly burst in with a smile. “What do you think? Anything else you might want in here?”

Artica looked at Hanka, who rolled her eyes. She was careful enough to sign just out of Syd's field of vision. ‘He is an exception. And no, I do not know if his twin also is.’

The Black nodded again, impressed by how perceptive the other girl was. “Not at all! I’ve never had a space like this all to myself. Feels kinda lonely.”

The young master smirked. "So it is company you want? That can be arranged."

"Shut UP!" Artica immediately replied, her cheeks flushing. "That’s NOT what I meant."

"No? Shame, I already had someone in mind."

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Fenrir was staring out the library window, deep in thought.

He couldn’t believe what he’d witnessed since they arrived at the Viking Tiger family manor. The absurd number of staff members, unthinkable levels of precisely executed logistics, the general warmth in everyone’s gestures. That was all foreign to him. Neither city or family manors of the Northern Wolf would be able to host these guests or achieve this level of efficiency. Hell, XXXX and his brother kept only four staff members each, two for general duties and two for cooking. A gentleperson-in-waiting for all guests (if they did not bring their own) was out of the question.

The boy frowned. Would it have been different if his parents were alive? Would there be that many people? Could events like these take place back in the mountains? Should he have had a gentleperson-in-waiting all along? It would’ve been nice to have a companion of any sort, at some point. Growing up an only child, and an orphan, under the tutelage of two people who gave exactly zero shits about him had made quite the dent in his… everything.

Fenrir let out a sigh, and then heard some shuffling between nearby shelves. Following the rustle, but not really paying attention to his surroundings, he bumped headfirst into a bookworm he knew too well.

“Hey, good morning,” he greeted, and had to repress a chuckle seeing her carrying three large books with a gazillion pages each.

“‘Morning! You think I can read them all before we leave?”

“Maybe, if you wake up early every day. Why are you awake now, though?”

Artica drifted to a nearby table, left two of the books and grabbed the third. “Oh, uh, I forgot to ask for schedules yesterday, and woke up in a hurry only to find everyone else still asleep. I might have woken Hanka up too, feel kinda bad about that.”

‘I was already awake’ she signed, popping up from between some shelves with two cups of tea on a tray. She left it on the table before leaving. ‘I will come for you when breakfast is ready.’

Taking note that Hanka was keeping a thorough eye on her, and that she was clearly skilled at lip reading, Artica gestured for Fenrir to take a seat. “Gentlepeople-in-waiting are both fascinating and alien to me.”

“That makes two of us.”

She said nothing. The day before, it seemed to her that Fenrir declined Syd’s offer because it made him uncomfortable to be a noble and not know how to interact with people in that role. Apparently, that was the case. “So, why are you awake now?”

I have no idea what is expected of me, and that keeps me on edge. “I also forgot to ask for schedules.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“You really have an indoor swimming pool. This is blowing my mind,” Artica said as they entered. “Wished you’d said so before, though, I didn’t bring a swimsuit.”

“Me neither,” Bud admitted.

“Not a problem, darlings, I did,” Karianne chimed in.

“Wh-? What does that mean?”

“Paolo, be a dear and bring the purple bag, you know the one.”

Her gentleman-in-waiting nodded and left but returned soon after. They both went into the changing room next to the entrance. Karianne’s voice could be heard inside. “Well, what are you waiting for? We do not have all day!”

Artica and Bud exchanged looks while Syd and Rúri smirked. “Finally, she has some other poor souls to use for entertainment.”

“No offense, guys, but she has been pestering us for years. It was about time a replacement showed up.”

Once inside, before anything else, Karianne and Paolo stared at them in almost identical gestures, a hand on their chins.

“Palettes?”

Even though Paolo narrowed his eyes in concentration, it didn’t seem to break his eternally relaxed expression. “Mid-dark tones for him, preferably in the reds so he matches you, my lady. Lighter tones for Miss Reynirdóttir.”

“Lighter? Are you sure? I was thinking maybe some blue to… you know…” Karianne raised her eyebrows, pointing to something that was not there.

“A compromise, then? I believe A13 fulfills both, my lady.”

“Hm, yes, that is a good choice. However, we will start with the other one. Please hand him from B4 to B9, and then from B17 to B20.”

Artica was offered a seat next to Karianne, while Bud was sent into one of the changing room cubicles. He had to try a parade of different swimsuits, all different mixes of black, gray, and splashes of color between purple and orange. After a full thirty minutes, Karianne and Paolo nodded to themselves.

“Very well, please give him B12, the one we selected yesterday.”

“What? You made me try all of those even though you’d already decided on one?”

“Yes, I needed to see you in different styles, for future reference. That hot ass of yours should always be displayed in flattering garments! Now get out, it is Artica’s turn.”

“She saw all of mine, why can’t I see hers?”

“I wanted her seasoned opinion on the other options, now please change and exit, we have work to do.”

With a slight blush on his cheeks, Bud did as she asked and left. Artica was given A13 immediately.

“Wow, you have really nice legs, sweetie. Show them off more often, yes? Now, what do we think of A13, Paolo?”

“Good fit. A two-piece shows your athletic disposition quite well, Miss Reynirdóttir.”

“Th-thanks.”

Karianne tapped her cheek with one finger. “You know, this one fits you very well, so I encourage you to wear it, but may I ask you to try two other swimsuits?”

“For future reference?” she chuckled. “Yeah, that’s okay with me. Thanks for lending me this one! You’re a lifesaver.”

After changing to their own swimsuits, Karianne and Paolo returned to the poolside. The curly-haired girl took a seat in one of the benches. “Ritva, honey, are you not going to join them?”

Ritva uncovered one shoulder. “I did bring a swimsuit, my lady, but I feel unwell. Maybe another time.”

“I understand, come sit next to me so we can enjoy the view together.”

Bud’s head popped up from underwater. “You got us into these; you have to get in too, K!”

“Not today, darling. Pool chlorine is not what I need after washing my hair last night.”

Without another word, the older twin got out of the pool, dripping water everywhere, and picked her up princess-style.

“Unhand me, you beefy oaf! Do not dare to-!”

“Hey, no, wait!” Artica managed to say, getting out of the pool too. “Not like that, put her down.”

Karianne gave her a thankful look, just before the Black suddenly pulled her towards the water edge. She gasped loudly, clinging desperately to Artica and anticipating the cold water, but nothing happened. The Blue opened her eyes again to see Artica smirking teasingly as she pulled her back.

"You said you didn't want to get in the pool today because of your hair, so it would've been unkind to push you in."

"S-so gentlemanly of you, sweetie, thank you."

"Of her only, though," Bud interrupted mischievously as he trapped them in a hug, dropping all three of them into the pool.

After that, Karianne stayed in the pool, but didn’t allow Bud anywhere near her. Instead, she clung to Artica’s back like a reproachful child. Even during the water polo game, she refused to be on the same team. However, before they returned to prepare for lunch, Karianne graciously accepted Bud’s apology and allowed him to carry her all the way back.

“Is it always like this?” Paolo asked, picking up his things from the changing room.

“It is worse, actually,” Rúri replied while gently drying Syd’s hair with a towel.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Lady Paulfrid drank from her goblet. “The Archery Tournament is this spring, yes?”

“Remember that time Crown Prince Adalhar himself took part in it and a seventeen-year-old kid from the eastern region beat him by 2 points? His Royal Highness was furious.”

“It was hilarious,” Lord Ulrich said with a chuckle. “Not that he lost, of course, there is no shame in that. It just happened that His Royal Highness was so utterly convinced he won, he never bothered to check the kid’s total points.”

“Huh, funny you mention that, Father-” Karianne said, and was suddenly stopped by Bud’s knee bumping into hers. He shook his head, as subtle as he could manage. Her eyes drifted to Artica, who had lost all color on her face, her eyes begging Karianne to not say anything else.

“Yes, darling?” her father asked, noticing she suddenly went quiet.

“Ah- I-”

“Did you know, my Lord, that boy is Miss Reynirdóttir’s older brother? And she is as skilled an archer as him,” Rúri suddenly intervened, to the other three’s dismay. “An outstanding shot, surely to win the Tournament this coming spring.”

“Is that so, Miss Reynirdóttir?”

Frozen in her seat, Artica barely managed to reply. “Y-yes, my Lord. That he is my older brother, I mean. I would not dare claim the second part of my lady’s statement.”

“She is being modest,” the blonde nodded. “Why, if you could just see her in action…”

Bud snapped out of his shock. “It did not occur to us to bring her gear, my lady.”

“If we were to procure some, would you accept a humble request of skill display?”

All eyes on her, Artica had no other option than to nod slowly, defeated.

Lady Tilda clapped her hands together in excitement. “Oh, I do not believe we have had an archery display at the family manor in years!”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“Why did you tell them?” Artica moaned, collapsing unceremoniously on one of the library chairs.

“Hm? Why would I not? Ever since we arrived, you seemed a bit down, so I figured that doing some archery would help you get through it!”

“Do you know why that is?”

Bud gave Syd a look, and his twin casually asked Hejne, Ritva, and Paolo to use the next hour to their leisure.

“... I cannot claim to be certain.”

“Everyone on this estate has been flinching, muttering, and deviating their gaze every time they speak to me. We met after the bite; I’ve always looked like this to you, but during the sixteen years before that, I didn’t stand out because of my appearance, and that was alright with me. Now I don’t have a choice…” she took a deep breath. “At the Academy and everywhere else I frequently go, people are already used to how I look, so I sometimes forget I even have it but… Not here. If I could, I’d rather not put myself in that position…”

Rúri took her hand. “I apologize, sweetie, I should have asked you first. You are always up to a challenge, so I incorrectly assumed this would be nothing for you to worry about. Would you like me to speak with Lady Tilda?”

“I think it is a little late for that, she already procured the archery equipment.”

“What? It’s only been rwenty minutes!” Bud blurted out.

“Oh, you should really hang out with Mother more often. She wastes no time, ever.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Fenrir had hung back and waited for a moment to speak. Lady Paulfrid was the first to notice and turned to him with a warm smile. “Yes, young lord? May we help you?”

“My Ladies, my Lords,” he began, taking a deep breath. “During my Coming of Age ceremony, I will be formally granted the title of Lord. However, I find myself… lacking understanding of the true meaning of this responsibility. May I humbly request you share some of your experience with me?”

He bowed deeply, waiting for their answer. The adults gave each other a look and nodded. Lord Baldrek spoke first. “It would be an honor, young lord. I can only hope to provide useful guidance."

"With pleasure! Her Majesty did send word a few months back; I was wondering when you would come around to ask," Lord Ulrich said teasingly.

Fenrir straightened up with an awkward smile. The truth was he had been too embarrassed to reach out. He only did it now because the three Heads of House were conveniently gathered in the same place. "I- I am-"

"There is no need to answer that, young lord, he is just being an ass," Lady Paulfrid intervened, shaking her head at Lord Ulrich's amused expression. "Thank you for reaching out to us, we are more than honored by your consideration."

Lady Tilda concluded the conversation she was having with Aleks, the head butler, and turned around to address her husband. "I already rearranged the schedule to include both the archery display and this meeting, dear. I will inform the children right away."

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“What’s wrong?”

Artica stopped fidgeting with the equipment. “Ah, it’s just… this is a recurve bow. They’re certainly the primary choice for target archery, and the standard for Olympic-level competition, but mine is a compound bow, better fitted for hunting.”

“Oh, the piercing power is greater, I guess?” Fenrir asked, more to himself than to her.

“Yep! That’s right! I mean, recurve bows can also be used for hunting, the specs are just different… and this one’s got no silencer, so it’s gonna be loud. This bow sight we can leave it in the box, not gonna use it. The arrows have rubber vanes, I guess that’s fine. Oh, these shooting gloves are nice! I'd like to have something like these one day. The arm guard is good too, though it’s kinda stiff…” Artica was saying, and suddenly remembered she was not alone. “Sorry, Fenrir, am I boring you with all this? I’m too much of an archery nerd, m’afraid, you guys just never have to put up with it.”

Fenrir was so absorbed by how enthusiastically she talked about it, he barely noticed it had devolved into a monologue. “Not at all! I think it’s cool you have something you’re so passionate about.”

Artica gave him a gentle smile. “Thanks for keeping me company. I’m not nervous anymore.”

He wouldn’t have guessed it based on her ramblings alone. “Just like in the exhibition at the beginning of the school year, this is practice for the tournament too. Even if there’s a lot of strangers, you’ll do great. I know it.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

"May I ask you something personal, my lady?"

"Certainly, my lord, what is it?"

"Syd and Karianne are both dear to you, yes?” he said, looking at them chasing Bud around the courtyard while they waited for Artica to return. “How did you, uhm, note the difference?"

Rúri meditated on his words. "...between romantic and platonic?"

Fenrir nodded sheepishly.

"Ah, this sounds like a serious matter to be discussed over tea, my lord. Follow me."

A while later, they were sitting at a table in a nearby gazebo with jasmine tea and pastries brought by Ritva.

"So," she resumed after taking a sip. "You wonder what is the difference between one and the other. I feel there is no universal answer, but we can discuss whatever is on your mind if that will help you understand it better."

"There is someone," Fenrir began, self-conscious at the flicker of her eyes. "I, uh, appreciate, but I am not sure if it’s one or the other… and cannot make up my mind."

“Well, let us start with the easy part. Why are you friends with this person?”

“They are kind and supportive towards me, we have fun together, and have shown me they have my back.”

“And why do you believe you might want something more?”

The boy lowered his gaze, a faint blush on his cheeks. “...because my heart skips a beat when they call out my name.”

Rúri tightened her lips, trying to disguise how heartwarming she found that answer. “Have you ever shared time alone with this person?”

“Yeah, a bit…”

“Did it feel… like a breath of fresh air? A weight lifting up?”

He nodded, his eyes wide.

“If tomorrow, they came to you and said ‘I do not want to see you again’, how would you react?”

Fenrir closed his eyes, very aware of how that felt like. “I would abide, even if it broke me into pieces.”

Rúri nudged the other cup in his direction. “Drink your tea, dear, and take a deep breath. This is all hypothetical, no need to jump to conclusions.”

They ate a few pastries and finished their tea in silence. Rúri had a nostalgic smile on her lips.

“I often feel Syd and I are in a duet; his piano and my violin, playing a melody no one else knows. It is sweet, and slow, and gentle. I do not know how long we will play it together, but I do know it warms my heart and eases my pains. Maybe this is a difficult metaphor for you to relate to, but that is how our relationship feels to me.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

It’d been a while since everyone split up for the treasure hunt, and the fact they hadn’t bumped into any of the other teams yet only proved how gigantic the Viking Tiger family estate really was. Artica checked the oddly elaborate map Hanka gave her, deep in thought. Fenrir, who was aware Bud “randomly” paired them together, had been unsuccessfully trying to make a move for the past twenty minutes. He found it sadly ironic that his “blurt out” skills only worked with stupid shit, and not actual, meaningful phrases. In the meantime, however, he came up with something to use soon.

“Say… if you had a coat of arms, what do you think it would be?”

“Like, for my family, or a personal one?”

“Oh, uhm, whichever.”

“Hmm… I think a family crest would have a predator. Hunting’s been in Pa’s family for a few generations now.”

“And for you?”

“Personally, I would love a stag!” Artica replied, curling her hands over her head to imitate antlers. “Majestic and strong as fuck, those bast-! Shit.”

It didn’t take Fenrir long to understand. There was a very alert-looking Norwegian Elkhound staring right at them, not with the friendliest body language. Such a breed is known to be wary of strangers, and well, that’s exactly what this dog stumbled upon. Artica was breathing fast, nervous all over.

“No. No, no, no. Animals, dogs, react to your own energy. You gotta stay cool, Artica,” the boy said, his hands on her shoulders. “Nothing’s gonna happen, okay? I promise.”

The dog moved toward them at a steady pace. When she felt its breath on her, Artica kind of stepped away, right into him. Without skipping a beat, Fenrir took her hands and stood very still.

“I promise,” he repeated in a quiet voice. She looked him straight in the eyes, trying her best to tune out her immediate surroundings. Unconsciously, Artica matched his breathing and relaxed a bit. Just a bit.

“Stay cool, that’s it. You got it.”

The dog sniffed them for a while before cocking its head towards a rustle at their left.

“Oh, sh- Heck.”

Hejne caught himself just in time, then whistled. The dog’s ears perked up at once and returned to his side. It did not escape him the guests were holding hands. “I apologize. This dog is witty and knows it can open its kennel door with enough patience. The young master asked us to keep them locked away during your visit.”

“That’s probably because of me, sorry,” Artica said with a sympathetic smile. “A dog bit me last year.”

Hejne's eyes opened wide, briefly looking at the left side of her face. He bowed. “I deeply apologize, Miss Reynirdóttir, I was not aware. It will absolutely not happen again; on that you have my word.”

“Thanks, Hejne, I appreciate it. Don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone, right?”

“About what?” Fenrir asked casually, also with a sympathetic smile. He gave her hand a squeeze, not knowing the gesture gave her heart a squeeze too.

The gentleman-in-waiting bowed once more, thankful, and took the dog away. Just before reaching the kennels, he heard Syd’s awfully familiar stepping pattern on the stone.

“Why is that dog outside?”

“If you allow me to skip that question, I can tell you what I saw after I bumped into two of our guests.”

Syd’s mouth curled into a smile. “Oh? I am listening~”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Was he underdressed? Or maybe overdressed? No, there was no such thing as overdressing when meeting a Head of House, certainly not when meeting three at the same time! Fenrir wished this felt normal to some degree, but the truth was that in that manor in Eastern Asgard few things felt familiar. Luckily, one of those was sitting on the bed, looking at him with bright silver eyes.

“I really don’t think there’s anything wrong with that outfit?” Artica said with a hand on her chin. “The cut is etiquette-appropriate, and there’s no need to be fully formal because it’s a private meeting, not a public event.”

“But they are Heads of House! And I will be too when I turn eighteen! I can’t fuck up now (or ever)! They’ll know I’m ill-suited for the title!”

“You’re not ill-suited; you’re not even seventeen yet! Give yourself some credit; not everyone has the guts to speak to three Heads of House at once.”

I don’t have the guts either, but there is no other choice. “I just wished I wasn’t doing it by myself.”

“You’re not,” Artica replied, taking his hand to deposit the locket left on the nightstand. “The person who gave you this said so, right? They’re with you forever, and even if I don’t know much about the burden you carry, I’m here for you too.”

She let her words hang in the air for a moment, trying to decide. Should I tell him now that we’re alone? No, he’s too worried about the meeting. Putting him on the spot right now would be unkind, but if I tell him afterwards and he doesn’t feel the same, the days we have left here will be awkward.

Artica reached towards him. “May I…”?

Fenrir’s heart was pounding so hard, he was sure the Black could hear it too. One of her hands, warm and calloused, was handing him the locket with his parents’ helix piercings, while the other reached out towards him. Fenrir hopelessly wished it was to cup his cheek in a reassuring gesture and maybe a k- No, better not. I don’t even know how to kiss.

Before he realized it, Artica’s hands were on his neck, gently fixing his shirt collar, and then moved down to slightly adjust his tie. She gave Fenrir a tender tap on the chest, noticing how nice his citric cologne smelled. “There. They were a lil’ crooked.”

Internally screaming, Fenrir wished he didn’t have a terribly important meeting in five minutes. He needed at least ten to recover from this. “Thanks! I… sadly must get going.”

Sadly?

There was a faint blush on both of their cheeks. She nodded and followed him, noting how suspicious it was that her four classmates and their three gentlepeople-in-waiting just happened to be chatting in the hallway outside, considering their quarters were in the opposite direction. Hejne led Fenrir away to his meeting, while the other six stared at her expectantly.

“Is everything alright? Did something happen?”

“Something like what?”

Karianne suppressed a frown. “Well, you were…”

“Helping Fenrir get ready, like I said this morning," Artica interrupted, playing dumb for the sheer pleasure of messing with her. Watching Karianne struggle to get answers while keeping her subtlety was honestly hilarious.

"A word?" Bud asked, choosing to be more direct.

"Apologies, brother. Artica and I already have an appointment."

"We do?"

"Yes, you are to help me with piano practice, remember?"

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

They had done this many times before, yet it was still amusing to see how much a change of setting impacted everything. The piano was larger than the Academy’s, and handsomely decorated in gold over forest green. The legs even had carvings that made them look like Viking tiger paws, which was both fearsome and elegant. Hejne brought tea and pastries and arranged them neatly on a table nearby.

Syd started playing at once, clearly in a joyful mood.

“Sounds like your birthday week is going well,” Artica commented, nibbling on a fruit tartlet.

“It is! Everyone was able to come, and I have been having such a great time! I do hope it is the same for you.”

“Oh, absolutely! Lots of firsts this past few days. I've never had papaya before!”

As usual, they talked a bit about Bud, a bit about Syd himself, and even a bit about the Lord and Lady of the Viking Tiger. Hejne chimed in with bits about Paolo and Ritva but found talking about himself too embarrassing and changed the subject several times. During the conversation, Syd's helix piercing caught the light, and she couldn't help asking.

“How did you meet Rúri?”

“Oh, Karianne introduced us a few years back. As you know, they have been friends for ages,” Syd explained, without missing a beat on the piano. "It was during a ball, yes?"

"Sigrblót (1) festival, I believe?" Hejne offered helpfully.

"Oh, right! What a beautiful summer start that was… Anyway, when Karianne told me about her, I was astonished. Plays the violin? Likes jazz music? Enjoys visiting new places? I had not even met her, and I already felt we would get along fantastically, which was obviously the case.”

“Obviously,” she agreed with a nod, sipping some tea.

Syd carefully timed his question with a dramatic section of the song he was playing. “If I may ask, have you found someone who piques your interest? I recall the thing with Asgrim did not go very far.”

Artica lowered her teacup. “No, it didn't… but I guess I’ve found someone, yeah.”

“I am glad to hear that,” he said with a warm smile. “Whoever that person is, I hope they value your attention. You have a caring heart; it should not be invested in fools.”

I am the fool, though, unable to tell if I am the investment they are looking for. "Well, kind of tricky now, y’know? It's hard to say if they’d be okay with their partner getting stared at everywhere they go, not in a flattering way…"

Syd abruptly ended his solo and turned around, all business. "May I make a wild guess as to whom we are discussing? You do not have to acknowledge if I am correct."

Artica gave him a nod. Syd said the right name without batting an eye, cool as a cucumber. She was not cool at all, red as a shrimp. "Oh, no. Is it super obvious?"

"Probably not to him," the twin chuckled as he ate a croissant. "I figured it out recently, and even though I would not claim to know his exact thoughts on the matter, I feel he would not mind the staring. You two hang out quite frequently already."

This unexpected acknowledgement filled her heart with hope. If only…

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“You think Hejne can get me a beer?”

“Pretty sure you’re gonna get plenty of wine during dinner, it would be unwise to mix like that.”

Wearing once more his custom-made suit with the Viking Tiger cufflinks, Bud had combed his hair back in a short ponytail, for once allowing both eyes to be visible. Sannfrid and Artica nodded, impressed with the final look.

“You look fantastic,” his father said as he took a seat near the lit fireplace. “Not a hair outta place. That’s my boy.”

Bud smiled sheepishly. “You guys gonna be alright?”

“Yeah, don’t worry. I’ll keep Sannfrid company while we eat and then I’ll probably go to sleep early. Those paintball matches after the birthday lunch wrecked me.”

“Fill the bathtub and take a nice, long dip. It’ll ease some of the weariness.”

Artica nodded enthusiastically at Sannfrid’s suggestion. She then accompanied Bud over to the door. “Enjoy the evening. You deserve all these good things for your birthday.”

The older twin ruffled her hair with a smile. “We still need to talk about whatever happened yesterday.”

“Yeah, yeah, later. Go and have some high-class fun.”

After having a nice, quiet dinner time with Gudvin and Sannfrid, she finally went back to her quarters only to not find them empty. Karianne was reading a magazine on the bed while Rúri brushed the hair of a displeased Hanka. Ritva offered her a plate with snacks the moment she saw her.

“Wh-?”

The Black didn’t even know what to say. Hanka seemed too annoyed to even sign an explanation.

“Finally!” Karianne exclaimed, slamming the magazine shut. “Get in your pijamas; we are having a girls’ night.”

“Right now?”

“Of course, dear,” Rúri said. “We got everything ready while you were elsewhere.”

“I can tell, yes, but I was gonna fill the bathtub to-“

The girl with the black curls didn’t like that. “No- Hm! Alright, I realize we are taking time you had already planned for something else. I understand that. I have two questions, so if you are willing to answer them, we’ll move along to my quarters, and you can join us after your bath if you want.”

“Uh, sure. What are they?”

“Do you like Fenrir? And if so, did something happen between you two yesterday?”

“Yes, I do, and no, nothing of particular importance happened.”

The other four were honestly not expecting a straightforward answer and just stood still for a moment.

“Oh,” Karianne said, still flabbergasted. “Well, okay then.”

Rúri started to gather the snacks while Hanka straightened the bed. “Put some lavender oil (tall, yellow bottle on the left) in the water, sweetie. It’ll help you relax in no time.”

Artica saw them out, prepared the bathtub, and got in without further delay. It was awfully convenient they didn’t ask about the treasure hunt because boy, that would've been vastly more difficult to discuss.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“Thank you for having us,” the guests collectively told their hosts with a deep bow.

“Oh no, thank you for coming all the way here for the boys’ birthday. It was our pleasure!” Lady Tilda said, and all the staff members present bowed after she finished talking.

Lord Baldrek turned towards Fenrir and shook his hand. “Take care, young lord. I do hope we were able to give you helpful insights. If there is anything else we can do for you, please do let us know.”

Lady Paulfid and Lord Ulrich were just behind him, nodding in agreement, but their attention drifted towards another guest quite suddenly.

“We are looking forward to seeing you in the Archery Tournament!”

“Very impressive display you gave us the other day. Who would have thought hitting a red dragon fruit with an arrow would have such an explosive, gory result!" Lord Ulrich said with delight.

She laughed nervously. If Artica had known what a red dragon fruit was before shooting it off Syd's head, she would've suggested a different target.

The Heads of House moved on to someone else, while their heirs said their goodbyes to their gentlepeople-in-waiting.

"Do take care, dear. I know you like biking but twisting your ankle is not worth it," Karianne was telling Paolo, kissing both of his cheeks. "I hope I can meet your partner next time I return home."

"Be well, my lady. I know now I leave you in good company," Paolo replied, shaking Bud's hand. "I truly enjoyed watching you annoy the hell out of each other these past days. You are meant to be."

Artica, Fenrir, and Sannfrid snorted loudly at his words. Rúri was hugging Ritva so tightly, it seemed she would never let go. "Oh, I know our schedules collide in every single way but do feel free to visit the city manor from time to time. I miss you dearly, sweetheart. Be sure to call me once you get home."

"Sometimes it sounds like that's her partner," Syd chuckled. "I do hope Hanka was not too harsh on you. She is rather serious."

"What? No, she was perfect!" said Artica, and then proceeded to mutter under her breath. "(She was the only one who looked me in the face while speaking…)"

"Farewell," a voice she didn't recognize said, and it spooked her a bit to realize it was Hanka herself. The lady-in-waiting noticed and proceeded to pull back some of her dark hair to reveal a cochlear implant. Syd had his back to them, so Hanka proceeded to sign at the speed of light.

'I've had it for a month now but… you whine too much; signing was the better choice.'

'That's fair,' Artica replied with an honest laugh. 'Thanks for your help and farewell.'

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Karianne was looking at all the polaroids taken during the trip with great satisfaction. Her favorite one was of Bud and her, dripping wet, in the middle of a kiss, but close runner-ups were Syd covered in paintball hits, and Rúri in calf-deep fountain water trying to retrieve one of the treasure hunt coins.

The train started to slow down, and a voice announced they were arriving at the Central Asgard station. Karianne was gathering her things when she noticed one last scene that should be immortalized and quietly took a photo of Fenrir and Artica asleep, leaning into each other, before gently letting them know they had arrived.

Embla and Reynir greeted them on site and after saying goodbye to everyone else, helped them get their luggage on the local train to their side of the city. Before Artica walked Fenrir home, her mother invited him over for New Years, if he was available. Knowing XXXX would leave him behind to go on vacation, Fenrir accepted right away.

As he saw them walk away together, Bud thought to himself that something had changed between those two. He didn't know what, or why, but it felt like they were finally walking in the same direction; towards each other.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

The whole place was a mess.

One moment, the carnival held for Dísablót (2) was filled with music and laughter, and the next a lightning strike caused the main tent with the acrobats to collapse on itself while everyone screamed. Bud was both glad and ashamed; glad because he was able to grab Karianne’s hand and quickly pull her away from that chaos, and ashamed because he had failed to do just that for Artica. During any other time, it would not be a concern, but during a thunderstorm…

“Hey, are you guys okay?” a familiar voice called out to them. Fenrir emerged from between two stalls.

Bud could not help feeling discouraged. He thought maybe, where he had failed, Fenrir would have succeeded. However, there was no one with him. “Sort of. You?”

“I’m fine. Where are the others?”

The twin looked at Karianne's bleeding forehead and made a choice. I'm sorry. This time, I will not keep my promise.

"Fenrir, there is nothing that scares Artica more than thunder, and this is no simple storm. I hope you understand how important it is that you go find her, because I need to take Karianne to the hospital."

There was both a plea and a threat in his voice; Fenrir did not miss either. "I do, and I will."

They both nodded and parted ways, feeling the icy rain on their heads. It took a while of wandering the area until he found her taking cover under the big tree in the park, crouching and covering her ears.

"Artica! We cannot stay outside, c'mon!" he yelled, but got no reply, reaction, or acknowledgement. Fenrir frowned, now understanding what Bud meant. This was a much deeper fear than dogs. He took Artica's hand, pulled her up, and dragged her along as he ran.

Fenrir slammed open the door to his house. One of XXXX's staff members was nearby, reading the newspaper like he owned the place. "YYYY, prepare a room for our guest, and a few towels, please."

There was an awkward silence. XXXX's staff paid Fenrir little mind, and he did the same. This was the first time in more than a year of knowing of each other's existence that the boy had spoken to him. The man eyed him over the paper, looked at the girl up and down, and grunted.

Even though Fenrir had prepared for resistance, the man went ahead without any further convincing. After a short while, YYYY returned with the towels, and was not impressed when Fenrir pulled Artica along without taking off their dirty boots. He resumed his place reading the newspaper, barely acknowledging the quiet 'thanks' Fenrir whispered.

The boy guided her to the room next to his and let her sit on the bed while he closed the curtains. Since Artica seemed to be in a kind of shutdown, Fenrir did his best to dry her braid a little while pulling off her soaked jacket. Immediately, after wrapping a blanket around her shoulders, he noticed her trembling. It was honestly a pitiful sight; the terrified mouse before him felt like someone’s sick joke of the cheerful and energetic person he had grown to care about. Fenrir somehow got her boots off and gently nudged her to rest her back against the bed’s wooden header.

When a particularly strong thunder roared outside, the Black let out an audible whimper and immediately grabbed onto the closest thing to her, which happened to be him. Artica was breathing so fast, Fenrir feared she was going to faint. With a fist full of his shirt, she started shaking heavily.

Fenrir grabbed the hand on his chest and laid it flat with his own. Then, putting his arm around her, lowered his voice. “It’s alright. I’m here with you. You aren’t alone."

He breathed in and out very slowly. "Match my breathing rhythm; you can do that, right?"

Artica did not answer, her eyes tightly shut. A few tears rolled down her cheeks. Fenrir hugged her closer and gently encouraged her to follow his lead. "Breathe in, breathe out. Evenly. Without rushing. Together, just like that."

This was only achieved once the thunder had ceased. By the time Artica fully realized it, her head was resting against Fenrir's chest. It was soothing, and comforting, in a way she had not felt in a while. Was it alright to wish for this to last a little bit longer? Was it okay to think he did not mind?

His chin was gently resting on the top of her head. Fenrir could feel himself at peace and realized at once why it was. He knew etiquette required him to apologize for his forwardness and whatever, but he didn't want to. Apologize for something that felt nice? Which seemed to be alright with her?

Eventually, they both realized that unless a certain thing was said, they could not remain like that. Slowly, without a word, they pulled apart.

In that silence, their hearts ached, but out loud, neither said why.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

A day had passed, and he was honestly not expecting to see Artica standing outside the gate. She hadn’t ringed the buzzer yet; Fenrir only went to check because Ging had been circling outside his window door for a while. They both suddenly felt all their feelings merge in an incomprehensible hot pile, and a slight blush brightened their cheeks.

“H-hey,” she greeted sheepishly. “I wanted to… uhm…”

Rummaging through her bag, Artica pulled out a paper bag full of homemade chocolate chip cookies. Fenrir’s favorites. “Thank you, for your kindness…”

The boy received the heavy bag, speechless. She fidgeted with the end of her sweater sleeves. “I've always been afraid of thunder and struggle a lot when there's a storm. You didn’t have to welcome me into your home, and keep me company during that episode, so… I really appreciate it.”

Acting against his better judgment, Fenrir walked over and gave her a tight hug. “I'm sorry, I wish I'd known beforehand. You were nervous all afternoon, but I didn't understand why. I’m glad I was helpful, even if just a little.”

She hugged back, just as tightly. “It was more than enough. I made those cookies to thank you, I hope they're alright.”

They let go of each other; yearning for more, but unable to say it out loud. At least, not yet. Artica made a short bow his way. “I’ll return the hoodie you lent me another day. I forgot to bring it.”

“No problem, don’t worry about it,” he said, reaching inside the bag and taking a bite off a cookie. “Oh, these are really good, thanks a lot!”

The girl gave him a smile, her cheeks now bright red. She waved goodbye and returned home. Once back in her room, she pulled out a hoodie from her bag. Artica had promised herself to return it, but in the end gave in to one selfish wish. The smell of Fenrir's citric cologne comforted her, especially after yesterday's events and, at least for now, she wanted to hang onto it.

Fenrir sat outside his room. He gave Ging a hug, borrowing his face in the fur. “It must be true, right? That these feelings echo in her? That it would be okay?”

Ging did not have an answer.

 XXXXXXXXX

(1) First day of Harpa, first month of the Norse calendar (mid-April to mid-May). A day to celebrate the beginning of summer and the victory of light over darkness.

(2) A celebration of new beginnings and preparation of the land for planting (beginning of February).

Source: 

xxxxxxxxxWhat a horrible morning.

The sky was clear, and the breeze was fresh, but everything else ruined it. Being forced to move to Central Asgard was already tough, yet knowing that the vibe at ‘home’, both here and in his previous location, did not improve weighed heavy in his heart.

The boy walked slowly, observing his new environment with contempt. It was so loud, all the time. Cars, people, children, machines, trains. He could even hear a dog barking its head off in the distance. Everything seemed to follow a rhythm he couldn’t understand. Everyone seemed to know what to do and where to do it. Not that he was any different, but he never had a choice, only a schedule.

Today, he was going to the Academy to sort the final paperwork before the start of the school year.

Lost in thought, he realized the barking was now quite close. Just when he was about to turn, something caught his eye. A large, short-haired dog was angrily snarling and barking at a few trash cans, moving left and right to prevent whatever it was harassing from escaping. The boy walked a little closer only to realize there was someone there. The girl seemed to be around his age, with her long hair tied in a braid. Her arms were in front of her face, and every muscle in her body seemed to be trembling.

He tightened his lips, unsure of what to do. This was a complete stranger, and he was new in town. Newcomers usually didn’t do well in situations like these. After a deep sigh, he walked with confidence, almost dominance, toward the dog. The animal noticed him at once, but instead of making him the new target of his aggression, began to take steps back. It finally turned around and left with its tail between its legs. The boy walked back to the trash cans. Without the dog barking, he could actually hear her whimpering.

“Hey, uh… it’s gone now. The dog…” he said, uncomfortable.

She seemed spooked by his voice and lowered her arms immediately. There was a medical patch over her swollen left eye. The girl looked around several times, making sure the dog was really gone. “Wh… Who… are…?”

Out of nowhere, another teenager came running towards them, pushing the boy to the side and crouching in front of her. “Artica! Are you okay? What happened?”

She rubbed her face. “I- A dog came round the corner… I couldn’t… Did you run all the way back looking for me?”

“You can bet your ass I did! Damn it, the one day I have to run an errand and this happens…” he groaned, helping her up. There was something odd about his appearance. Careless, but carefully curated. He finally noticed the boy and narrowed his eyes. “What are you looking at?”

He gave the girl a quick glance before starting to walk away. It was better like this, no need to have some awkward conversation with a stranger.

“W-wait!” she called out from behind the other boy. “Thanks… for helping me out!”

He nodded and went on his way, not giving what just happened another thought. After a while, he finally reached his destination. The Academy’s main building was intimidating by itself, but the whole compound was breathtaking.

Unaware he was being watched, he swallowed hard, and let out a mortified sigh. If only that person had not insisted so much, with such well-intended concern…

“Good morning, Fenrir,” an older girl said with enough grace to make the gods blush. She approached him, her long silvery hair swaying in the gentle breeze.

Fenrir turned around at once. He cleared his throat, feeling very awkward. “Your Royal Highness… Good morning…”

“At school, 'Lady Hilda' is more than enough. Are you ready to start on Monday?”

“Not really, no, but… to repay your kindness, my Lady, I will do my best,” he answered, lowering his eyes.

“Please, think of this as a new adventure. It is marvelous to have you here in Central Asgard.”

Fenrir nodded, not believing himself worthy of her efforts. He was fine back in the mountains. His tutor was an average individual, perfect for the average life outside of town. Going to such a flashy academy in Central Asgard felt unnatural to him, but Princess Hilda had personally insisted on having the son of late Lady Ingrid join this institution. Asgardian nobles should aim for the best education their country can offer, or whatever it was she said to convince his relatives. They didn’t care about him, so any excuse was acceptable to send him away.

“With your leave, I will go check what my schedule is…”

“Certainly, please go ahead,” she replied with a nod. “I hope you have a great day… and do not forget to tuck in your shirt before going inside.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

The great hall had been beautifully decorated with colorful banners, each with the heraldry of the many nobles attending the Academy that year. There was also a black one with a special coat of arms, with the Balmung sword, which represented those students who were people of Odin, but not from noble bloodline.

Bud couldn’t help scoffing at the sight of it. “They really do have an ‘everyone else’ banner, I can’t believe Boreal was right.”

“They already gave us different uniforms, I can’t wait to see what other fun distinctions they have,” Artica added with a slightly ticked-off attitude. She tried hard not to care about it, but some aspects of going to the Academy still rubbed her the wrong way.

“I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough,” a redheaded boy said with his arms crossed. “There is some kind of activity scheduled after the ceremony.”

His name was Asgrim, and even though they didn’t know him very well, they’d seen him often at the scholarship study sessions. The three of them took a deep breath when the special guest walked in. Everyone gave her a deep bow as she walked by, while one of her companions cleared his throat.

“Her Royal Highness, Freyja of Asgard.”

The younger princess was still in her third year of junior high school, and would not be attending the Academy just yet, but her sister invited her for introduction purposes. As she took her place near the stage, so did everyone else. The scholarship students were on the left, next to the window, while the nobles filled the rest of the hall. The older princess, soon to be crowned ruler of their country, walked up to the stage and did a short bow.

“Greetings, everyone, and welcome the new school year at Asgard Academy. When I started my studies here two years ago, I noticed many of our traditions seemed out of touch with the world around us, and as the future of Asgard, we must strive to display the best our country can offer. After careful deliberation, changes were made to the junior and senior high school programs…”

There was a small smile on her lips. “That will be duly communicated at the beginning of every term. Even today’s schedule was updated to…”

Bud wasn’t really listening. The gold and green banner right on top of him made his blood boil. And to top it off, he was here too, on the other side of the hall. He’d known beforehand, of course, but having to actually acknowledge it was irritating. Artica, on the other hand, was looking around at all the different banners, wondering who they belonged to. Two noble girls nearby seemed to be doing the same.

“That banner has not been hanged anywhere in a long time,” the one with long, black curly hair said in a low voice. “Not since the…”

“Accident, yes,” a blue-eyed blonde whispered back. “So that heir is here today?”

“Indeed. Judging by the unfamiliar face, it is likely him…”

Artica was not trying to eavesdrop on their conversation but couldn’t help also looking at the student they were staring at. His hair was silver, but the light gave it a blue tone. She side-eyed the boy a few times before nudging Bud with her elbow. “Hey, don’t we know that guy?”

“Who?” he whispered, looking around. “The one with the messy hair?”

“Yeah, he looks familiar somehow…”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“The rules are simple; each of you has ten balls filled with chalk powder. Players marked with someone else’s color are disqualified and need to surrender their balls to whoever marked them. The white uniforms given to you will make it easier to see who has been hit and with what color.”

A hand shot up the moment the man was done talking. “Is there a prize for winning?”

“No, my lord. This activity’s objective is for Year 1 students to have a healthy introductory game, it is not meant as a serious competition.”

“Like hell it isn’t,” Asgrim growled. “The faster you get kicked out, the quicker they’ll start treating you like trash.”

“Are you trash?” Artica asked, looking at her bright green balls.

“Of course not!” he replied with an irritated tone.

“Good, then let’s show those Blues how to play, commoner style,” said Bud with a smirk.

“Wave 1. Ready, go!”

Artica and Bud immediately ran towards a big tree in the corner of the yard. He gave her a push to get her up a branch and then crouched behind the bushes. Artica surveyed the area for a few minutes.

“Alright, I’m taking it off. Can’t aim shit with this stupid patch.”

“Sure, just be careful not to get chalk on your face. It's probably gonna sting.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

In just the first few minutes, several students were taken out. Most of them complained loudly they weren’t here to display themselves in such a tasteless manner and would rather do something else. Hilda paid them no mind. The game was her idea, and what made it truly interesting was to see how those willing to play set up their strategy.

Two scholarship students had set base in a tree on the far side, another was hiding behind the greenhouse. Several nobles had taken refuge next to columns and benches. There was no team that mixed the two groups, which was her main objective, but there would be other opportunities. It also caught her attention that there was one student who was not even hiding, but somehow had not been hit at all.

“Well, now, is that not curious…?”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

After another ten minutes, there were only five students left: three scholarship and two nobles. Up on her branch, Artica carefully aimed towards one of the nobles that had carelessly wandered near their tree. Once ready, Artica stood up and threw one of hers. Her jaw dropped when the noble suddenly turned around and kicked it away in a flash.

“Did you see that? What is up with that guy?”

“I didn’t, sorry, Asgrim’s making a move and I wanna take them both out in one go,” Bud replied, readying two red balls.

Quick as lightning, he aimed and fired, but missed. His targets were pursuing each other around the tree and barely noticed his balls speeding by. A minute later, they ran into the other noble.

“Huh? How come you haven’t been hit?” 

He gave no reply, and effortlessly ducked to evade Asgrim’s throw. At the same time, Bud hit the other noble and Asgrim in the back. A whistle in the distance validated his attack, and they returned to the building. Artica and Bud gave each other a quick look.

“Do we wing it?”

“He’s too quick. Let’s try a pincer and wing it if necessary. I don’t really think he can mind two people at the same time.”

She got down from the branch but did not reposition her eye patch. Bud moved away to nearby bushes. The noble was staring right at their tree with no particular expression. Artica frowned; he had been aware of their location the whole time, yet made no throws. Bud made the signal, and she took her position right behind the tree. They both launched their attacks at the same time, aiming right at the noble. He dodged the red ball and, just like before, gave the green ball a strong kick that sent it flying right where Bud was.

“Shit, he already knows where I moved to,” he whispered.

Bud managed to catch Artica’s eye and made some gestures. She nodded in agreement. At the count of three, they both attacked. Moving quickly and efficiently, shooting without standing around, and hoping for the best. The other student took a step back without even looking at either of them. To her horror, Artica felt a red ball hit her right in the chest. Exactly on the opposite side, Bud received the green ball in his forehead. Another whistle came from the distance.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Bud and Artica were arguing on their way back to the building.

“I can’t believe you missed!”

“I can’t believe you missed! You’re aim is way better than mine!”

They only settled down when they noticed Princess Hilda was waiting for the three of them. Artica clumsily adjusted her eye patch in the right position, while Bud smudged more chalk on her face to hide the clean spot on her forehead.

“Congratulations, Fenrir Ylfingrsson of the House of the Northern Wolf, for remaining unmarked during Wave 1 of this game,” Hilda said with a big smile. “I was not expecting the winner to literally evade all balls and throw none back!"

“I don’t understand the objective of the game,” Fenrir whispered when giving back the ball net.

Bud almost choked when he realized all ten blue balls were still there. Artica was gesturing at it as well, bewildered.

Hilda turned to them. “Bud Sannfridsson and Artica Reynirdóttir, such teamwork! A perfect example of what deep trust on one another can achieve!”

“Thank you for kind words, Lady Hilda,” they both replied with a deep bow.

“Very well, please head back and change into your regular uniforms while Waves 2 and 3 play out. Ms Reynirdóttir, go to the infirmary after that to clean out your wound. Chalk will not help with healing.”

Artica nodded in a nervous manner. She made a note to never let her guard down around Princess Hilda.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

In the Academy, you would be in the same classroom for most subjects (except those which required special equipment, like sciences, home management, and sports), and the teachers would rotate during the day depending on their subject. His seat was located at the back, next to the window, which was a nice way to distract himself. The rest of the class had introduced themselves and there were only two left.

“My name is Artica Reynirdóttir, and I come from the Eastern region. My hobbies are archery and reading,” the girl with the eyepatch said, sitting to his right.

Fenrir stood up and cleared his throat, not really looking at any of his classmates.

“Fenrir Ylfingrsson, from the North,” and sat back down, providing no further details about himself. He found it hard to believe someone would be actually interested in knowing more.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“Good,” was the short reply from the Archery Captain.

Artica let out a quiet sigh. She had already performed seven shots, all successful, surely there was no need for more?

“That should be enough.”

“Actually, may I ask for one more?”

Everyone in the club turned to the entrance, where Princess Hilda and another senior student were observing. The tall young man’s hair fell in delicate brown curls, and his elegant demeanor matched the princess perfectly. “Would that be alright?”

“Of course, my lord,” Artica replied. One more Blue making her jump through hoops was not really a surprise.

Without another word, he threw an orange into the air. Instinctively, she aimed and released her arrow. It went right through the fruit and into the very center of the middle target at the back of the field.

The senior walked over to her. “Well, what a surprise! The Silver-Eyed Hawk’s little sister is now in the Academy.”

There were some whispers from other members of the club. He gave her a short bow. “A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Reynirdóttir. My name is Siegfried Sigurdsson. Your brother was a senior when I joined the Academy, and well known for his archery skills. Seeing you take your test reminded me of that one trick he liked to do in front of newcomers.”

Artica also bowed. “Boreal was always a show-off, my lord, but he did teach me that trick.”

“Only one person took the test for this club?” Hilda asked with curiosity.

“Yes, my Lady,” the Captain replied. “It seems this year’s juniors have other skill sets.”

The princess nodded at the remark, turning to Artica, who held her breath.

“Great work! Congratulations on passing the test, and…” she lowered her voice to the faintest of whispers. “That little hole in your eyepatch might bypass the depth perception issues, but it will not help with the infection in your wound. I strongly recommend you get a new one and come to an arrangement with Dr. Andreas and the Archery Captain.”

“Y-yes, my Lady,” Artica replied, appalled to have let her guard down in Hilda’s presence. “At once.”

Hilda cleared her throat with a smile. “The Archery Tournament will be held in Central Asgard soon. I do hope at least some of you consider taking part in it.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

One sentence, that was usually all he got, but it stung for days, weeks, years. Fenrir's presence was performative, as he was not expected to do much. Talking was definitely not it. And whenever he tried, he was chastised at once.

Or, if they felt petty, he wasn't, but after everyone was gone, Fenrir got lengthy reminders of how much of a burden he was, how little he was like his parents, how no one expected anything from him. In essence, how little he mattered.

Yes, they were too smart to lay a finger on him, knowing that was evidence for any prying eyes. Words, however, only bruised the soul, and there was no one who cared enough about that boy to check there.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

She greeted him with a smile. “Hi! Welcome to the Arch… Hey, it’s you!”

Fenrir scratched his neck, feeling very awkward. After Hilda noticed a week had gone by and he hadn’t joined a club, she encouraged him to visit all of them and pick the one he found more interesting. Fenrir did not feel like joining any, and only came to this club because it seemed no one was around, but that was clearly not the case. 

“Sorry, I do not know what you are talking about, my lady...”

The girl let her arrow fly, missing the center of the target by a few centimeters. “No? Oh… I had a problem with a dog before the start of the school year, and someone helped me out. I thought it might be you…”

Fenrir tried to recall the details of that weekend. “You were… the girl between the trash cans, my lady?”

There was embarrassment all over her face. “When you say it like that, I sound so lame.”

It made sense to him; that braid and eyepatch combo were difficult to encounter. Fenrir briefly eyed her face. The area surrounding her left eye was not as swollen as that day, but the patch made it difficult to estimate how the healing was going. He could not stop himself from asking. “What happened?”

“I was bit by a dog a few days before we met.”

She aimed again, and missed the target by an entire inch, but Fenrir could tell it was not because the eye patch affected her depth perception. 

It was clear why she had been so shaken back then. However, he realized now how inappropriate it was for him to ask. Fenrir wished he had bit his tongue. Now what? Change the subject? Or would it be better to just leave? Damn, it was easier when there was no one to talk to.

She turned around and stretched out her hand. “My name’s Artica. Thanks again for helping me out that day!”

Fenrir met her handshake out of habit, but her welcoming attitude threw him off. It did not feel mocking, yet still felt unnatural to receive. People always seemed to take advantage of all opportunities to look down on him. “I am Fenrir.”

Artica looked at their hands briefly and slowly withdrew hers. “Shit, I forgot that’s not how these students greet others here.”

He frowned at her words, confused. ‘These students’? ‘Here’? Was she an alien?

Artica seemed to notice, and a few sweat drops ran down her face. “I-I’m sorry, that was probably not appropriate either. I’m… not a noble... I’m still getting used to the etiquette requirements. If you can, please disregard this!”

Fenrir finally caught up with the situation. Of course, she did not greet him with a slight bow, and certainly did not use formal language even though they did not know each other. She even shook his hand, like people did back in the mountains. “Don’t worry about it. I struggle with that myself…”

“Your words are kind, my lord” she replied, her tone was different. Fenrir found it less welcoming and, for whatever reason, felt slightly discouraged.

He cleared his throat, uncomfortable once again. “Anyway, I’ll get going… I still need to join a club…”

“Oh! The Karate club is looking for new members, my lord! Someone with your reflexes will surely be welcomed there.”

“My reflexes?”

“Yeah! I haven’t forgotten you beat Bud and me on the first day. My lord.”

Fenrir smiled slightly as he turned around and waved goodbye. “I’ll consider it, thanks.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Bud had packed up and left a while ago, but Artica was still reviewing her notes, comparing them to the textbook. Biology was not her best subject and struggled to make sense of it. Her diagrams had been erased and remade at least three times, but it seemed a fourth was needed. In the middle of it, someone peered over her shoulder.

“You are missing the individuals that carry the gene but are not affected by it.”

Artica turned around so suddenly, the kid from up north jumped back a bit. A quick look at her notes proved him right, so with a silent nod, she thanked him for his observation. Fenrir sat where Bud had been all afternoon (which was, really close to her). He took out a book and a notepad from his bag.

"Did we have History today, or was it yesterday, my lady?"

The girl side-eyed him, checking to whom he was speaking to and felt uncomfortable at once. It was one thing to talk after school and club activities, when there was no one around, and a very different one to do so in the middle of the study hall, which was currently packed with Blues. A few of the other students were sneaking looks at them already.

She replied in a low voice. "Yes, my lord, yesterday."

"Right, thanks," Fenrir said absently, looking for something in his bag. After a few painfully long minutes, Artica couldn't help silently nudging a pencil his way. The kid from up north looked up and nodded with a thankful expression. Everyone else now was just plainly staring at them, which had Artica biting her lower lip nervously.

“Hey, uh, quick question, why is your uniform black?” Fenrir asked, almost casually. 

The tension was too much for her, so she subtly jerked her head and guided him out of the study hall, to a quiet hallway away from it.

“Bud and I are here on a scholarship, my lord.”

“Is that why you wear different uniforms?” he asked. They were the same, just black instead of navy blue.

“Yes, my lord. You probably noticed we are not the only ones, but there are not many scholarship students. Bud hates it, he feels we are being segregated.”

“Do you?”

“Not at all. I prefer it. I can see who is here through privilege, or through effort," Artica cleared her throat. "My lord."

“You can drop the formal language if you want. I must admit I’m with Sannfridsson on this one, it does seem like the Academy wants the scholarship students to stand out.”

“Do you know what the program requirements are? You need to be a top student during junior high school to be considered for the entrance exam. If you pass, you must remain a top student in the Academy. We are also asked to earn 20% more credits per term by helping on other clubs, apart from the one we belong to.”

“That sounds really tough. Is that what you mean by 'privilege or effort'?”

“Yes, being a Black requires an enormous effort. Three years of continuous hard studying, and still three years to go, plus keeping up with etiquette and other stuff now that we have noble classmates. Being a Blue just requires resources. No offense.”

“None taken,” Fenrir replied absently, thinking how Princess Hilda’s people did all the paperwork, he literally just showed up for the regional exam.  “Do Blues know all of this?”

Artica had to laugh. “Do they care?”

“Fair enough.”

“Why do you care?” she asked. Her tone was less harsh than before and seemed genuinely curious.

“I’m from Northern Asgard and homeschooled up until now. I don’t really know how things work here. I just want to understand.”

Artica was slightly surprised. “Well, now you know why Blues and Blacks talking gets so much staring.”

“Yes, my apologies for back there. I realize now I put you in a tight spot. Is it ok if I still talk to you, though?”

“Uhm, sure,” she replied with an awkward smile. “Since the dog bite, I’m used to people staring.”

Fenrir did a mental facepalm. That was not what he meant, and he certainly did not want her to put up with it just because he still had questions. Yet he was not sure how to say this without messing up again.

“It can be when it’s just the two of us, if that is alright with you.”

xxxxxxxxx

In very out-of-character fashion, Fenrir overslept, and was now making his way to the Academy by foot. Near the riverside park, he heard some ringing in the distance, but all the fuss around him made it difficult to focus. So many people were going about their business at this time, he already felt exhausted. Half an hour early; that is all it took to have a nice, quiet trip to school, but not today.

The ringing became louder and louder, and closer, and when Fenrir turned around to find where it was coming from, something flew right past him. It stopped a few meters away.

"’Morning!" Artica exclaimed, resting the weight of her bike on one foot. "Didn’t know you took this path to school.”

Bud, who hadn't noticed Artica stopped, was just coming up to them. “True, never seen you on this route before.” 

Fenrir rubbed his neck, feeling somewhat awkward. When he accepted Artica’s friendship offer, he didn’t really consider that it also meant interacting with those around her more often, and something about this classmate made him feel uneasy. Maybe because he always looked so confident, while Fenrir himself rarely felt that way.

“I usually take the train but overslept today and missed it. Waiting for the next one will make me late for sure.”

“Huh, I didn’t know there was an earlier train… but then again, I don’t feel like waking up earlier,” Bud replied. “Anyway, let’s get going, or we’re gonna be late either way.”

“Alright, hop on,” Artica said, facing her bicycle forward once again.

“Sorry?”

“Hop on! It’ll be faster than walking!”

“Your bike is not fit for that.”

“Yeah, it is! Just step on those metal bars next to the back wheel’s center and hold onto my shoulders. Gimme your bag, I’ll put it in the basket with mine.”

Fenrir did not reply, a slight frown on his face.

“Ok, fine, I’ll put my own bag on, and you can grab onto that. C’mon!”

The kid from up north wasn’t sure what to make of it. It was unadvisable, not to mention contrary to etiquette, as well as unsafe. And yet, he found himself passing over his bag, letting her get some impulse, and then hopping on. A few seconds of unsteadiness later, he was grabbing her bag tightly as she sped up and then maintained Bud’s speed.

“Atta boy!” Artica cheered loudly. “It’s not so bad, right?”

Fenrir, who had been going to school by himself for months, couldn’t help smiling. “Not bad at all.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Artica closed the door and walked over to the bench, waiting patiently as Syd cleaned the piano keys.

“Before anything else, I must ask,” he said, looking her straight in the eye. “Are you dating my brother?”

“Nope,” the girl answered easily, unconcerned.

“Okay, cool. We can move on then.”

“Nope,” she repeated. “We can’t. Why do you ask that?”

Syd was an expert keeping his cool and didn’t even bat an eyelash. “Well, it is crystal clear you are very close. I just wondered how close, that is all.”

Artica scratched her chin, thinking. “Hm, no, that’s not it, is it? You're asking on someone else’s behalf.”

Syd's expertise suddenly imploded as he fumbled nervously at her words. “P-pardon? Where do you get that idea from?”

“Last time, you said you didn’t ‘wish to dig around like that’, and I believe you, so someone else is behind that question.”

In his mind, Syd cursed. He’d observed them for a few months now and was well aware of how both Bud and Artica were always on their guard, hyperattentive even, when interacting with their Blue peers. His question had been too sloppy, and too straight forward. And she picked up on it immediately.

“I’ll take your silence as a ‘yes’,” she went on. “Whoever it is, tell them to have courage, and strike first. He’ll appreciate a bold move.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

"How about the café on the boulevard?"

"Rúri, sweetie, you always have the most fantastic suggestions," Karianne complimented her. "Miss Reynirdóttir, would you care to join us?"

Artica froze on the spot, almost dropping her books, slowly turning around with the expression of a deer about to be devoured by bears. "I beg your pardon, my lady?"

"It would be a great pleasure if you would accompany us for a cup of tea and maybe some pastries," Rúri added.

Even though the thought of it was nerve-wracking, the Black could not think of a way or reason to refuse. It would be unwise, though, to risk these Blues taking offense. She gave them a bow. "It would be my honor, my ladies."

It was a short walk from the Academy to the boulevard; the Blues chit chatted all the way, but Artica did not have the confidence to join. Once inside, a table was prepared immediately in a cozy corner decorated with (fake) tropical-like plants. Everything in the menu looked delicious, and expensive.

Karianne made a hand gesture. "Order whatever you wish, Miss Reynirdóttir, it will be my treat."

"N-no, my lady. You are most kind, yet I must refuse."

"Nonsense. During our school trip, you did not hesitate to back up Mister Sanfridsson and safeguard my wellbeing. It may have been to prevent him from being sanctioned, but I appreciate it all the same. I insist, please order to your heart's desire."

Even though Artica just wanted a regular coffee and a small croissant, both Blues ensured the final order was much grander than that. After a few minutes, a parade of tarts, cookies, cupcakes, and other pastries was delivered. Her coffee was also upgraded to a beautifully decorated cappuccino. Unsure on what to try first, she took one of the tartlets. It tasted like heaven.

After that, it was easier for Artica to join Rúri and Karianne in conversation. She’d been wrong to think of them as pretentious, considering they were just like her; teenagers trying to keep up with their daily struggles.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“What’s up, ‘Silver-Eyed Hawk’?”

There was a short silence. Boreal was flabbergasted. “What did you just call me?”

“You never said they called you that at the Academy,” Artica replied with an audible smirk.

“Of course not, it’s embarrassing! It came out of an idiot’s mouth and the other students from the Archery club kept using it until I graduated. Ugh.”

“Oh, I don’t think it’s embarrassing. A senior’s been calling me 'Hawkling' ever since he figured out I’m your sister. It is catching on with the other Archery club members.”

“UGH! It was Sigurdsson’s little brother, wasn’t it?” he asked, immediately annoyed. “So much alike, those assholes. Don’t talk to him.”

At her laugh, Boreal let out a sigh. The last time they got a call from Asgard, it was their father passing on the horrifying news that Artica was attacked by a dog. He was grateful this time it was just a catching-up session. “How’s school going?”

“Meh, it’s not too bad, I guess. I have exactly zero free time.”

Boreal chuckled. “Yeah, well, you knew what you were signing up for, so you can’t complain. What about your classmates? Seniors?”

“Mostly fine. Some are really nice! And those who aren't… belong to another class, so it’s manageable.”

“Good. Don’t take shit from anyone, though. Give them a piece of your mind, in etiquette-appropriate ways, of course.”

“Boreal,” an annoyed voice chastised him from behind. “Don’t encourage that!”

“C’mon, P! You know how bitchy they can be at the Acad-”

She snatched the phone out of his hands. “Little sis, I’m glad to hear you are doing well. Keep up your good work, but don’t forget to rest, okay? We all know what overworking looks like in the family.”

“Hey!”

“Thanks, I will. What? Oh, sure, Ma, sorry. Polar was just telling me to flip the finger at everyone in the Academy. Take care, P! Here’s Ma.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Bud walked with his hands in his pockets, side-eyeing the person a few paces behind him. Artica asked him to invite a classmate to the arcade after school. The catch was that it could not be someone they were already friends with. Her logic was that they needed more than acquaintances if they hoped to survive at the Academy until graduation, and there was little to argue there.

He, however, decided to cut himself some slack and spoke to the kid from up north. After all, just because Artica had explicitly become Fenrir’s friend, it didn’t mean Bud had and was, therefore, meeting her requirements without too much effort. Bonus points to Fenrir for not saying a word since they left school.

Bud couldn’t help smirking at his own cleverness, until he heard two familiar voices close by. One he always welcomed, the other he did not. Around the corner, in the middle of avid chit chat, were Artica and that guy.

“Oh, hey!” she greeted, and immediately noticed the daggers in Bud’s eyes.

“Good afternoon,” Syd added, also aware of Bud’s gaze.

“A word,” the older twin snapped at Artica, dragging her several meters away.

Fenrir and Syd were left standing outside the arcade. The younger twin politely cleared his throat.

“I do not believe we have had the chance to properly introduce ourselves, my lord. My name is Syd Baldreksson, it is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance.”

“The pleasure is mine, my lord,” Fenrir replied with a slight frown. “Fenrir Ylfingrsson.”

While they were busy with introductions, Bud was fully concerned with chewing Artica out for her audacity. “Why did you bring him?!”

“I understand why you are mad-”

“I’m FURIOUS!”

“I understand,” she repeated, almost with a groan. Bud was even more annoyed by how calm she sounded. “Your Dad and I were talking the other day, and-”

“Don’t bring him into this!”

“And I thought that maybe if you would just talk to the guy, you could organize your feelings about the whole thing a little better.”

He couldn’t think of what to reply just yet, so Artica continued.

“It’s just… I understand this is bothersome, but it feels like even you don’t know why, and…”

“... and what?”

“And it’s eating away at both of your hearts,” she finished, her hand on his shoulder. “If you don’t wanna talk to him after today, I promise not to bring it up ever again. Just this once, though, would you acknowledge he exists?”

Bud was so tense, his neck already felt stiff. He let out a deep, annoyed, tired sigh and combed through his hair with one hand. “I- Alright. Just this once! And you owe me, you insolent brat. I want your share of the homemade dessert your Dad brought the other day!”

“I accept that request,” Artica nodded, appalled at how high the price she had to pay.

They returned to the other two. Bud was clearly annoyed, his right eye with a spasm, as he pulled Artica’s long braid. “So, you are joining us today, Baldreksson.”

“My lord,” she added right away, feeling like a chastised child at the pull.

There was a hint of… something in Syd’s eyes after hearing Bud address him directly. “No, please, let’s not trouble ourselves with etiquette for today.”

“What? You could’ve said that 10 minutes ago,” Fenrir interrupted, clearly unamused.

Syd let out a quiet chuckle before apologizing. Artica cleared her throat. “I believe we have all now been introduced to each other?”

The boys nodded. Fenrir scratched his chin in a pondering gesture. “So, you two really are twins.”

“It’s kinda obvious.”

“Yeah, I mean, I do have working eyeballs, thank you. I meant that they are, despite having different surnames. I’ve been meaning to ask you about it, but we haven’t been alone in a while…”

In an almost identical gesture, Syd raised both eyebrows with amusement, while Bud only raised one with suspicion. The spasm in Bud’s eye jumped to Artica’s left one as she grabbed Fenrir by the back of his shirt’s collar. “One of these days, you’re gonna make me kick your ass.”

“That’s not very friendly of you,” he replied as she dragged him inside the arcade.

The twins were left alone for exactly 10 seconds, and during that time, Bud decided to give his brother the benefit of the doubt. For now.

“Well? Let’s go play some games, Baldreksson.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Rúri drank her tea in silence.

Syd had been talking for 40 minutes straight, and it didn’t seem he was going to stop anytime soon, but that was perfectly alright with her. Ever since they started at the Academy, he hadn’t been in the best of spirits, as the one thing he wanted appeared to be so close, and yet remained so distant. Their own attempts had all been rejected instantly, and the only reason why the latest worked was because of Syd's greatest quality: kindness.

He was kind to someone, and unexpectedly, that someone repaid him with interest.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Bud closed the door as quietly as possible. After all, it was quite late already. He left his boots at the entrance and wandered towards the kitchen when a voice called out to him from the living room. “So~ How did it go?”

Artica was on the couch, wrapped on a blanket reading one of the same old books she frequently borrowed from the bookstore in the Lower Market. Bud took off his coat and left it on a chair while taking a seat next to her. “Good. Great, actually! Smoother than I thought.”

“Yeah? Did she take you somewhere fancy?”

“Sorta, first to a café on the boulevard. We talked a lot about nothing in particular, and then we went to the movie.”

Artica wiggled her eyebrows up and down. Bud let out a cackle. “No, too risky. She did lean into me; I just hope it wasn’t because she was falling asleep during the flick. Anyway, then we went to the arcade.”

“The arcade?” she replied, surprised. “She doesn’t strike me as the type.”

“I thought the same. I said it outta habit and was surprised when Karianne immediately said yes. For her first time, she really kicked my ass in the motorcycle simulation!”

“Oh, I bet. Probably the same skills as horseback riding. I’m glad it went well!” Artica said, fist-bumping him. “Just don’t forget about me when you join the Academy’s most popular gang along with her, the Princess and Sigurdsson.”

“I wish. Everyone’s gonna be after me if this becomes serious. Might die unexpectedly.”

“Shame. I’ll make sure you wear your favorite sneakers during your wake.”

“You always knew me best,” Bud nodded with a laugh.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Her curly hair had the color of copper, and her olive-green eyes reminded him of the winter forests. She came closer with a serene smile. They both made a short bow.

“Good morning, my lord. Thank you for humoring me.”

“Good morning, my lady. It is I who is grateful for your invitation,” Fenrir said, moderating his tone in the way that etiquette dictated from him. “I am new to Central Asgard, therefore many corners still remain a mystery to me.”

“Is that so?” the girl asked with a hint of fake surprise. “Shall we go, then?”

He nodded and allowed her to lock her arm with his while walking. The Street Market was exactly what its name suggested; a long succession of stalls that offered all imaginable products, from food to clothing, and beyond. Levina gracefully explained the history of the neighborhood and how it had come to be part of the economic development of the capital.

From time to time, she would point to a certain stall and, after talking to whoever managed it, invite Fenrir to the store behind it to see further inventory. So far, they had browsed equestrian equipment, tailored suits, imported vintage wine, exquisite Asgardian artwork, and jewelry. Even after a few hours, they barely managed to reach the middle of the street. The stalls further down seemed less bright and more populated.

“Oh, look at the time, my lord!” Levina exclaimed, looking at her wristwatch. “Should we get lunch? At the café we passed earlier, perhaps?”

“Of course, my lady, I am at your leisure,” he replied, slightly impressed at how subtle she had been about not moving forward down the street. They shared a plate of roasted lamb and rosemary, along with some other dishes Fenrir tasted out of politeness, not really interested. After a cup of coffee, they finally said goodbye to each other with a bow and a last polite exchange.

Fenrir waited until she was out of sight to let out an exhausted sigh and start walking to his house by following the riverside. He eventually reached the park and even though he wasn’t really looking for anyone, it surprised him to see a familiar face sitting on a bench under the shade of a big tree. Fenrir came closer before realizing it.

“Hey.”

Artica looked up from her book. “Oh, hi! Fancy meeting you here. Running some errands?”

He lowered his eyes, tired. “No, a girl from school invited me to visit the Street Market today.”

“That was nice of her,” she said, aware it was probably more than that, but everyone had to take their shot. She gestured for him to take a seat. “What did you think of all the quirky stands in the Lower Market?”

“We stayed in the Upper Market.”

“Oh, right,” Artica subtly rolled her eyes, and a conversation with her father popped into her mind. “Say, there’s a hunting gear shop in the Upper Market, right? I’ve heard it only sells top-of-the-line items!”

“Uh, probably. I wasn’t paying attention…” Fenrir couldn’t help noticing. “You’ve never been to the Upper Market?”

“N-no, I haven’t. It’s mostly a…” she struggled to find the right words. “An… hm…”

“Area for nobles, I noticed.”

“Commoners stick out too much in the Upper Market, lots of stares…”

Fenrir was looking straight ahead, but from the corner of his eye, noticed her awkwardness. For someone that claimed to no longer be bothered by stares, it was rather obvious they still made her uncomfortable. An idea came to him. “If you are free next weekend, let’s go to the Street Market.”

“Uh...”

“I’ll accompany you to the Upper Market so you can check the hunting gear shop all you want, and then you can show me those quirky stands in the Lower Market you were talking about.”

She rubbed her chin, thoughtful. Was he subtly asking her out? Nah, it sounded like another instance of his clueless wording. Artica disregarded her doubts and gave him a small smile. After all, now that Bud had someone else to hang out with, she didn’t mind doing something different.

“Sure! That sounds great.”

Fenrir nodded and stood up. “Alright. I’ll leave you to your reading then, sorry for interrupting.”

“No worries. See you on Monday!”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Unlike the week before, where etiquette required a certain formality, Fenrir chose a more casual outfit with his favorite fur-trimmed coat. For Artica’s sake, he kept the shoes and other accessories the same to still give off a certain vibe. As he got closer to the park, he noticed she was already waiting for him.

Artica was wearing a slightly oversized white hand-knitted sweater that looked very cozy. She didn’t braid her hair and styled her bangs in a way that covered the left side of her face. To avoid making her feel self-aware, he made no comment about it.

“Hey. Nice sweater.”

“Right? My sister made it for me!” Artica said with a proud smile, doing a half turn. “Looking sharp yourself, I see.”

Fenrir let out a bashful scoff at her comment and started to walk, taking the riverside path. He found it funny that even though they saw each other every day at school, they still had things to talk about on a weekend. It almost felt like the way to the Street Market had shortened compared to the week before, when he went to meet Levina.

At the entrance, he noticed Artica had stopped a few paces back and it took her several minutes before finally joining him. “D-do you think there‘ll be a p-problem if I go?”

“No, and even if something does come up, I will make it my business to ensure it is not a problem for you.”

“Wow, that was a very cool answer. You nobles always know what to say!”

Fenrir side-eyed at her comment. Etiquette was always subtle, controlled, elegant, and calculated; he replied exactly in the way that other Nobles would have expected, but hearing her acknowledge it like that made him feel slightly embarrassed. And it got a little worse, because etiquette still had a few more requirements he had to fulfill if he really wanted to spare her any staring.

“Uhm… I am accompanying you today, which makes me your escort, so…”

He slightly elevated his elbow in her direction. Artica stared at him for a moment before putting the pieces together.

“Oh, r-right,” she locked her arm with his. Fenrir couldn’t help noticing how warm it felt. That was one truly cozy sweater.

“I’m sorry for making you do all this,” she whispered as they passed the first stalls. Artica walked around nervously, even though not a single soul was looking their way.

“I asked you to come with me, don’t worry about it, but if this makes you feel uncomfortable…”

“Not at all!” Artica replied, a little louder than she intended. “T-thank you for your kindness, my lord.”

Fenrir was slightly surprised at how natural that sounded. Whenever she spoke in a formal manner, her tone was stiff and dry, but just now… In any case, they faked interest in a few stalls until they found the one they were looking for. Her grip on his arm tightened with a loud gasp. Artica’s eyes gleamed with excitement as she took everything in. Carefully, he let go of her arm and slightly nudged her to the door of the actual store behind the stall.

Even though she went in right away, he stayed outside a little bit longer. After careful deliberation, he accepted there was no point in buying a fifth handcrafted bone dagger and entered the shop after her. There were at least a dozen items on the counter; hunting pouches, finely decorated quivers, and a wide range of gloves. As he entered, Artica turned to him with a bright blush on her cheeks.

Fenrir cleared his throat. “Have you found what you were looking for, my lady? I see you have carefully reviewed their archery inventory already.”

She gave him a mortified look, but still managed to answer. “Indeed, as my lord father mentioned, only the finest of items are to be found here. These gloves are simply exquisite.”

“Would you like to try them on, my lady?” the man behind the counter offered.

With a subtle tremble, Artica picked up a pair of three-fingered, tan-colored deerskin shooting gloves. She mimicked the motion of releasing an arrow and raised her eyebrows in delight.

The man nodded. “I see you are most knowledgeable on the matter, my lady. These are indeed some of our finest.”

After a few other comments regarding the material and expected longevity of the items, Artica made up a story about discussing it further with her father, thanked the man for his time and finally exited the store. Her excitement had her out of breath. “Did you see those? What a dream…!”

Artica suddenly realized Fenrir was not behind her, but before the goosebumps had spread through her body, she saw him exit the store as well. With a relieved sigh, she took his arm again.

“I take it the store lives up to its reputation?”

“Oh, you have no idea,” she almost squealed. “I know exactly what I will be saving my allowance for, even if it takes me 5 years.”

Fenrir gave her a small smile. They continued well past the spot where Levina had gracefully turned around and found themselves struggling to move among a small crowd. Even though it was no longer necessary, Artica did not let go of Fenrir’s arm and he secretly hoped she would not do so at all.

Visibly more relaxed, Artica guided him through the Lower Market, pointing out the stalls with better prices, greeting a few individuals along the way. People from all over Asgard came to this market to sell their wares, making it an interesting mix of all regions in one place. There was a girl who made sturdy leather boots, while a man next to her offered a large variety of pastries. Further along, a young woman and her many younger siblings sold colorful flowers in bundles.

At some point, they stopped to grab a cup of hot chocolate from a gentle senior lady who gave them homemade cookies for free. By the end of the day, they were carrying two small, knitted wolf dolls Artica won in tic-tac-toe against a young boy she knew. It was already evening when they returned to the riverside park, and she finally let go of Fenrir’s arm. The sudden cold made him feel somewhat lonely.

She gave him a short bow. “Thanks for taking me to the Upper Market today. I really appreciate it!”

“Thanks for showing me around the Lower Market. I really liked that cramped up bookstore with the hanging lanterns. Would it be okay if we went back some other time?”

“Of course, my lord, I am at your leisure,” Artica replied.

It was uncommon for that phrase to be directed towards him, but Fenrir decided etiquette could fuck off for the day. Well, no, not just yet. “Should I accompany you to your home?”

Artica felt a sudden wave of embarrassment. “N-no, that’s alright. I’ve taken enough of your time for one day. It’s a short walk from here so don’t worry about it.”

“Alright.”

“See you on Monday!”

Once back at his house, Fenrir closed the bedroom door and stared at the contents of his bag. He wasn’t sure why he bought a pair of three-fingered, tan-colored deerskin shooting gloves.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Bud was in the middle of a practice match with Sigurdsson when someone came into the gym with a box. Distracted by who it was, Siegfried wiped him out in one move. "Keep your eyes on the prize, Mister Sanfridsson."

"My apologies for interrupting, my lords," Artica made a short bow. "May I have a word with Asgrim?"

Asgrim approached her after Siegfried gave them a nod. "What's up?"

"You're good with mechanical stuff, yes?" she asked, showing him the box's contents.

The red-haired boy eyed the bits and pieces with interest. "I am. What do I get for fixing that?"

"Name your price."

Asgrim gave her a cocky smile. "How about catching a movie this weekend?"

"As a date?"

"Yeah."

"Then I have to pass. I’m already dating someone."

A few heads turned their way at those words, Syd and Fenrir's included. The other Black raised an eyebrow, lowering his voice a bit. "Yeah? From the Academy?"

"Like that would happen,” Artica let out an amused grunt. “No, but you probably know each other, she’s from your side of Central Asgard. Thyrna."

"Ohh! So, it's you she's with! Fancy that. Okay, okay, change of price. Just help me out with your notes for Physics and Literature."

"That’s fair. I'll talk to you tomorrow about this. Thanks a lot!" she said, making another bow before leaving the gym. Syd (and Fenrir) drifted towards Bud as he sat on a bench.

"What?"

"I was not aware she had a partner," his brother commented, acting casual.

"And? It's none of your business."

Syd tightened his lips, unable to find a way to ask more without seeming nosy. Fenrir had a slight frown, and then a sudden realization. "Ohh! Is that why her schedule is so crazy?"

The Black turned to him. "Why do you ask that?"

"Artica showed me her calendar the other day, and in every month, there is one week with nothing, but a 'T' written on it. I know it's not my business, but I just figured… That would also explain why when we went to the arcade, she asked me not to create misunderstandings."

Bud was slightly impressed. The kid from up north was rather perceptive when he wasn't busy inflicting his careless wording upon others. "It’s certainly none of your business… But yes, we Blacks have very tight schedules. Artica does her best to clear at least a week so she can do whatever with her partner."

"How thoughtful, and committed, of her," Syd replied with a nod.

"And exhausting," Fenrir added. The twins raised their eyebrows. "You guys should see that calendar, it's madness."

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“So, how do you feel so far?”

“Jaded,” Asgrim replied lazily, cutting his steak in smaller pieces. “These past months feel like eight semesters.”

Sigurd chuckled at his words, while the other three nodded in agreement. “Yeah, but I think you guys are doing a great job. You in particular, I must admit.”

Bud made a casual hand gesture. “Me? Why would that be?”

“Oh, shut up, not all of us can date a Blue… especially not that Blue!” was Heimrik’s reply. This short, green-eyed boy grew up in Sweden, and just recently moved to Asgard to attend the Academy. He had proven to be full of complaints about how uninteresting his new home was, but the other Blacks had learned to tune them out.

“That aside, you have the right idea. Your top priority for the first half of Year 1 should be to make Blue friends. Lady Hilda has helped the scholarship program immensely, but she can't be there for the little things, especially during her last year at the Academy. We must make sure we have others to rely on, besides us Blacks. I’ve seen you two at lunch with those other four, that’s exactly what you need.”

“Who?”

“Baldreksson (though it’s obvious, he is your brother), the lady Rúri, your partner, and the other one, I always forget his name. The Wolfling.”

“The what?” Asgrim said, perking up at once. “Ylfingrsson?”

“Yes, that’s the one.”

Artica looked up from her lunch. “Hm? Why do you call him that?”

“Well, there are wolves in his family crest, yes? I don’t recommend using sobriquets for other students, but I do admit it's a bad habit I picked up from Sigurdsson’s older brother.”

“OH,” she blurted out, louder than intended. "Boreal wasn't exaggerating."

Sigurd raised an eyebrow. "Right, you're his younger sister! Don't tell me, he was super annoyed to learn lord Siegfried gave you a sobriquet."

"Annoyed? Even by phone, I could tell he was fuming!"

"Your brother never did like lord Sigmund much, but I never felt his sobriquets were meant as an insult. He always just seemed to have the perfect one on the tip of his tongue, even for those who have no coat of arms. It’s almost a compliment…"

Sigurd trailed off, and suddenly remembered what he wanted to say. “The point is, get someone who has your back, regardless of the color of their uniform. These three years in the Academy are brutal, at least surround yourselves with people whose company you enjoy. It’ll help immensely.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

It was a fine day to drop out of the face of the Earth. So many positive things had happened to him lately, Fenrir had almost forgotten he had his own personal hell back at the house.

"There will be a dinner on the 23rd with distinguished guests. You will attend but speak only when spoken to. Discussions will be held among adults, after all, and a brat like you has nothing of value to add to the conversation."

"If that is the case, why should I attend in the first place? After all, I was already invited to another dinner on that date," Fenrir replied, almost casually.

XXXX opened his eyes wide. The boy was talking back to him? It had been years since he had last dared to speak his own mind. "Excuse me? This is not a negotiation, boy. You will attend the dinner held in this house."

"I do not wish to."

XXXX shrugged off his comment. "Too bad no one cares about that. It is your duty as the House's heir, and you shall fulfill it, or otherwise tarnish your parents' reputation."

That stung. Fenrir didn't care about himself, but he would rather play into XXXX's schemes than somehow enable others to think ill of late Lord Ylfingr and Lady Ingrid. After all, it was not their fault their son had grown into such a failure. He clenched his jaw.

"Fine, I will attend this dinner of yours, here."

"Of course you will, boy. Make sure to explicitly decline the other invitation. We have no time for misunderstandings."

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“Uh… What are those?”

“Antlers.”

“Yeah, but why?”

Artica took her seat. “For the Jólablót (1) activity.”

“You have to put your hand in the box at the front of the class and take out a paper,” she explained. “It will tell you what you have to do.”

Fenrir had a slight frown. “So, you are one of the eight reindeers from ‘A Visit from St. Nicholas’, by Clement C. Moore?”

“You are oddly well informed,” Bud intervened. “Which one?”

The girl rolled her eyes. “Cupid. ‘Because of archery’, they said. Lack of imagination, in my opinion.”

“You can say that twice,” Karianne agreed, adjusting her own set of antlers.

“Which one are you?”

“Vixen,” Bud and Artica replied before she could. Both Karianne and Fenrir stared in silence.

“It’s the obvious choice,” Artica cleared her throat while Bud nodded in agreement.

The other girl sat on her lap, wrapping her arms around her with a cheeky smile. “Is it now?”

Karianne did a dramatic gesture as a ringing echoed loudly in the halls. "There goes the bell. Will you carry me to the meeting room?"

"Please don't," Bud had laughed out loud at her first comment but seemed put off by the request.

After a moment of contemplation, making sure her grip was good and Karianne's skirt was properly secured, Artica got up carrying the black-haired girl with ease. Karianne waved them goodbye. "It's nice to see at least someone is willing to humor a lady around her."

"Un-fucking-believable," Bud turned around at once. "She shouldn't be spoiling her. Am I right?"

Fenrir's eyes darted quickly between him and the girls. There was an awkward expression on his face. "She's… rather strong, no?"

The twin looked amused. "Has to be, to be a decent archer. Upper body, core and hip muscles all need training to build up both strength and endurance. K is also not particularly heavy."

"Right, makes sense."

"What, you want her to carry you too?"

"Shut up. You're the one who seems jealous she carried your girl away."

Bud frowned. "I'm not jealous, I'm annoyed. K has a bad habit of getting others to play along her silly schemes. Even if they are harmless, she shouldn't abuse other's good will."

"You worry too much," Rúri intervened. She was wearing a very elegant top hat. "But if it helps, I will make sure she does not go overboard."

"I- Thank you, my lady, that is very kind of you."

Fenrir raised an eyebrow. "And what did you get?"

"Snowman. Snowperson, I guess."

A hand went to her shoulders, making her turn around. "A Snowkitty would be cuter."

"Ugh, of course you are a St Nicholas," Bud groaned, looking at his twin.

The kid from up north took out a paper from the box and stared at it, confused. “I don’t get it.”

“Gingerbread cookie goes with Snowperson.”

“Meaning?”

Bud rolled his eyes. “They are in charge of receiving and wrapping gifts. St Nicholas and Reindeers will deliver them next week.”

It still didn’t make much sense to Fenrir, but he went along with it. Rúri and Bud explained the general gist of it, pointing to the other boxes where students could put their already wrapped gifts, or request for them to be wrapped on the spot. He was never particularly good at it, so Fenrir hoped to at least do a decent job. For three days, half the class spent their afternoons checking the boxes and getting down to business.

Among the activity goals was for juniors to interact with their seniors, so it was common enough for people they had barely seen to approach them and have a chat. It was honestly impressive how far some students would go to ensure the receiver did not know who sent the gift, even offering favors to keep it a secret. This was especially true for very popular students, like Lady Hilda, Siegfried Sigurdsson, and even Karianne and Syd. However, as the last two were in the same class, those gifts were redirected to the gift wrappers from 1B and 1C.

Depending on the number of gifts per student, the Academy would provide at least three, so no one was left with either too few, or none at all. People like Siegfried Sigursson, however, didn’t need any buffering.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“If it bothers you, I will not humor her anymore,” Artica said with a nod.

“Thanks,” Bud replied with a relieved smile.

“However, I'd like to offer some advice.”

The twin raised his eyebrows in anticipation.

“Try humoring her yourself more often.”

Bud crossed his arms at once with a frown. “I can’t. How will she learn to be less of an attention-hoarder?”

“Have you considered that she’s not aiming for everyone’s attention, just yours?”

“I- She already knows she has my attention. She is my partner after all.”

“Ok, but how often do you show her that? Cut her some slack, Bud. She is so charming and attractive, a lot of people jump right in at the chance of giving it to her, in hopes of something more, but I'll tell you a secret.”

He tightened his lips. “What secret?”

Artica’s smile was full of amusement. “When you’re not around, she barely engages in that kind of thing.”

Bud felt a slight blush creeping up his face. This was not his first relationship, not by a long shot, but he suddenly felt really stupid about how he’d been dealing with the whole thing. The twin covered his face in embarrassment. “I’ll… keep this in mind.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Artica was fetching the blue package when the girl from 1C called her over.

“Over here, Miss Cupid.”

She groaned. “Any chance you could just call me by my name, my lady?”

Her copper curls shone beautifully, even indoors. “Instructions are instructions, Miss Cupid. No exceptions.”

“I understand, lady Dasher,” Artica nodded with a heavy sigh. “Who’s next?”

“That young lady from 2B,” Levina replied, subtly pointing to a slender girl of long, straight black hair and bright teal eyes. “Would you please deliver this one?”

‘Cupid’ barely raised an eyebrow, already used to doing most of the heavy lifting. Not that this Blue had been unpleasant to her, but they all tended to just send her to do things. In any case, Artica walked up to her and cleared her throat. “My lady, may I have a word?”

There was no reaction, which in itself was weird because in the Academy everyone was always attentive to their surroundings (after all, etiquette did not treat those who disregard others well). She raised her voice a bit and tried again, with the same result. It was only when the Year 2 student tucked her hair behind her ear that Artica understood why.

Levina observed with interest as the Black walked a few paces away and then approached her directly from the front. Once she got her attention, Artica put the package in front of her and made very clear hand gestures as she spoke. “Good afternoon, lady Vaike. May I present gifts and other tokens of appreciation from friends and admirers?”

The girl seemed amused and gestured back, pointing at the antlers on the other girl’s head. ‘That looks very cute on you, little junior. You wear them well.’

Artica smiled, lowering her head. Her hands moved fluidly. “Your words are kind, my lady. Please enjoy your gifts.”

They parted ways and ‘Cupid’ returned to ‘Dasher’s’ side. Levina had the eraser of her pencil to her lips. “That went well, Miss Cupid. Good work.”

“Only one left. Who is it for, lady Dasher?”

Her green eyes didn’t even flicker, even though she had the list in her hand. “Fenrir Ylfingrsson, from 1A.”

“Oh, I know where that one is. Follow me.”

Levina said nothing and walked right behind her with the last purple package in her hands. As they were not in the same class, the two girls seldom interacted outside of physical education, or requested club activities. This was one of the four Blacks in their year, the only girl and, most notably, the one with the big scar on the left side of her face.

Seeing her from afar, Levina always perceived her as rough, with all the hammering she did for the drama club, but the three afternoons they had spent delivering gifts taught her otherwise. She seemed cheerful and easygoing, even if a little sensitive about her face. Due to all this, Levina had been very curious to work with her from the moment ‘Rudolph’ assigned them together. Well, that, and the other thing.

When they reached the gardens, Artica eyeballed the south side and then pointed to the bench under the tallest tree. “There he goes again, with his afternoon nap.”

Levina repressed a laugh. The Black took the package from her for a moment to write the receiver’s name and paused. “Huh, it wasn’t this heavy a while ago…”

She met 'lady Dasher’s' eyes. Levina said nothing, and at the same time, said it all. Artica raised her eyebrows for a moment and then returned the package to her. “Uh, lady Dasher, would you please deliver this one?”

Levina nodded, still silent, and turned around. Obviously, all her troubles to hide the fact she was sneaking an extra present into the package had gone out the window in an instant, yet she was grateful for the unexpectedly smooth way the Black had handled it. Levina walked over to the boy, acting as calm as she could.

Fenrir was slumped on the bench in a highly undignified manner, not at all reflecting his noble status. She cleared her throat twice, the second time a little louder, until he came back to life. “Good afternoon, lord Fenrir. May I present gifts and other tokens of appreciation from friends and admirers?”

“Friends and what?” he muttered drowsily. However, the moment he saw her face, Fenrir straightened up and smoothed over his clothes, now visibly tense. “My lady! Apologies… I- Uh, how did you find me?”

Levina’s eyes flickered to where Artica had been a minute ago, only to find she was seemingly alone with him in the south side of the gardens. “Why do you ask, my lord?”

Fenrir narrowed his eyes, unwilling to admit there were exactly two people who knew he napped there, and one had found out by accident. The boy let out a sigh. “It matters not. Thank you for delivering these- Wow, this is a little heavy, is it not?”

She gave him a helpless smile, unsure of what to say. “You are most welcomed, my lord. Please enjoy your gifts.”

Levina promptly turned around, her curls shining bright in the pale sun outdoors. She returned to the main building only to hear a small chuckle behind her back. “That went well, lady Dasher. Good work.”

“Thank you for your commitment, Miss Reynirdóttir. It has been a pleasure to deliver presents with you.”

“Oh? No more ‘Miss Cupid’, my lady?”

“The assignment is complete. Instructions no longer apply.”

“The pleasure was mine, lady Sefidóttir. If the Drama club needs my assistance next week, please do let me know,” Artica said with a short bow before turning around and walking out the door.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

There was no one else at the Archery club, which was ideal. He already felt miserable and did not have the strength to be very casual about it.

"About the dinner on the 23rd…" Fenrir said, rubbing his neck. "I can't attend."

Artica lowered her bow. "It's okay. We're aware December 23rd is an awkward date to celebrate a birthday."

He clenched his jaw. "It's not that I don't want to attend. I can't attend."

Whether she picked up on it or not, Fenrir could not say. Artica readied her arrow once again. "Don't worry about it. Maybe some other time."

Fenrir nodded, utterly unhappy. He’d encouraged himself to believe this would be the first Christmas in a long time he would actually enjoy, away from everything that made him lonely and sad, but it had blown up spectacularly in his face. Fenrir cursed the moment he let himself hope for something less depressing.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Winter break had mixed reviews.

Karianne and her father flew down to Belgium to spend the holidays with the other half of their family. Apparently, the weather had been fantastic, despite the time of year. Rúri spent it at Syd's household, as her parents were still attending business meetings abroad.

Bud, Artica, and their families returned to the eastern region, hoping to give Sannfrid a break from medical treatment in a familiar place. Unlike Belgium, however, Eastern Asgard was hit by a blizzard, and it took a few days for trains to resume.

Fenrir spent winter break as usual; doing absolutely nothing besides the mandatory dinner he was forced to attend. There had never been such a thing as decorating, seasonal meals, or gift exchanges with XXXX and his brother around, so during the day he would go hiking to the nearby hills with Ging, and at night, locked himself in his room, listening to music in the dark.

End-of-year holidays hadn't always been like this, but after that fateful day when he was six, nothing was the same ever again.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

It was already dark by the time they got back. Since Fenrir had been miserable all day, Artica invited him to the Lower Market. They didn't really do much, just hang out at the bookstore and play some games with Vaito (who gracefully apologized for flinching at her scar).

They were just outside his house, talking, when the buzzer rang loudly and the gate flung open. An angry voice was screaming seven hundred things at once. Fenrir immediately smashed the button on the intercom and answered at least eight hundred things back. The yelling continued. He was on the verge of just storming inside to have the argument face to face, and possibly throw around some punches too.

This seemed like a recurrent situation, and even though Artica did not want to seem pushy, she grabbed his hand. "Hey, uhm, would you like to have dinner at my house today, like right now?"

"What?"

"Y-yeah, if that is okay."

Fenrir felt terrible every day in that house, with those people, and just the thought of not having to put up with it for one evening felt like a blessing. He couldn't believe someone was offering it to him so freely. "Really?"

"You don't have to come if you don't want to, I just-"

"I would like that…" he answered in the softest of voices.

"I'm leaving!" Fenrir yelled back at the house, not even bothering with the intercom anymore, before allowing Artica to guide him away. Her house, like his, was on the outer part of the city, but Fenrir never imagined it to be just 20 minutes away.  He noticed she was slowing down and got very nervous all of a sudden.

"Hey, thank you. Really. I've never been invited to someone else's house but I… don't know if I should-"

The Black stopped in front of a modest 1-story house with a small backyard. Lights were on inside. She turned to him with a warm smile. “Then please allow me to welcome you into our little home.”

Artica opened the door, took off her boots and invited him to do the same. "Ma, I'm back! I brought someone from school for dinner. That's okay, right?"

"Yeah, no prob- From school?" A slightly alarmed voice replied. There was some shuffling down the hallway. Moments later, an older woman emerged from one room, her hair up in a tight knot.

"Welcome to our humble household, my lord," she said with a slight bow and in the same stiff tone Artica used with other students. "We can only hope our-"

"Ma, it's alright."

Her mother gave her a disapproving look. How could it be alright when someone from that school was coming here? Fenrir cleared his throat and offered his best (nervous) smile.

"My apologies for the late notice, madam, but please don’t stress over it. I grew up in Northern Asgard, close to the wild mountains. I could really use a day where no one has to put up with etiquette."

The woman seemed taken aback by his words but returned his smile. "Yeah? From the mountain range, you say? My husband goes there for work often, shame he ain't here today."

"Is that so?"

"Pa's a hunter, he gets wild game for the local butcher."

Fenrir nodded knowingly. Back in the North, he saw hunters often but was never allowed to talk to them. They guided him to the kitchen and after a few minutes, dinner was served. It was great, all of it. The food, the tiny kitchen, the creaking wooden stool, and the company. Embla, her mother, took a liking to him very quickly. She even let her hair down after a while and told him stories about Artica and her siblings.

“Such a small thing, always clinging to her brother’s arm!”

“Ma! You make me sound like a crybaby!” she interrupted, flustered. Fenrir noticed she was avoiding his gaze.

“You were a crybaby, child, but not anymore, eh? Going to the big Academy with the fancy nobles now…” there was an awkward pause. “No offense, Fenrir.”

“None taken,” he said right away. “If it helps, I think Artica fits there better than me.”

After a long conversation about nothing in particular, it was finally time to wrap up. Embla ruffled his hair before he left the house. Once outside, they noticed snow falling gently from the sky. Artica went back for a moment and returned with a grey scarf. “Here.”

“Thanks, for everything…” he said, lowering his eyes. “I had a great time. Your mother is lovely.”

“I’m glad to hear that, it really seemed like you needed a break from being home.”

“That’s my house, but not my home,” Fenrir replied in a low voice. “And those people… are certainly not gonna make it one soon.”

“Are they your…?”

“My parents passed away a long time ago… during a riding accident…”

An awkward silence tried to settle between them, but Artica did not allow it. "Why do you let them treat you like that? You don't deserve it. No one does."

There were many reasons why he allowed it. Years of verbal abuse corroding his self-confidence. Lack of any other significant interactions to show him what positive ones were like. Fear of being lonelier than he already felt. Fenrir, however, chose to tell her the one that was less complex to explain, but just as important. "I'm afraid they will hurt Ging when I'm not home, among other things."

"You don't deserve to be treated like that," Artica repeated, moving closer and hugging him tightly. “Visit anytime, okay? Ma always makes extra food, even though my siblings aren’t here, and Pa is often away.”

“Isn’t Bud over frequently? I don’t want to be inconvenient…”

“Yeah, he is also welcomed here anytime, but don’t worry about it. I can only hope you see this tiny house as a place where it’s okay to be yourself. Like you were with Ma, like you are with me. Like we are now…”

For the first time in a very long while, Fenrir felt better. Truly. Like a weight was lifted from his shoulders. He hugged back, somewhat sheepishly.

“I would like that…”

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

xxxxxxxxx

Complete, unadulterated perplexity.

That’s what Fenrir felt after following Artica to her house’s tiny backyard and hearing everyone yell ‘Happy birthday!’ at the top of their lungs. Confetti flew here and there while the smell of homemade venison pot roast with gravy filled the air. There was even a small pile of packages on the table. Were those gifts? For him? Now that was unheard of.

“Wh-? You didn't have to. I-”

“It is not about having to, honey, it is about wanting to,” Rúri interrupted, putting a headpiece with wolf ears on him, followed by a silly and colorful conical party hat. Everyone else was wearing bunny ears, including Artica’s parents.

“Thank you. This is my first birthday party in a very long time…”

The food was delicious, the gifts were amazing, and the company was heartwarming. It was perfect from top to bottom, and Fenrir was truly grateful for their kindness. Just after blowing out the candles, Karianne got everyone in position for a picture.

The scene immortalized in a polaroid showed Bud pushing Fenrir’s face into the homemade cake while keeping Artica away with his other hand. In the background, Syd restrained Rúri to prevent her from choking the older twin.

Truly, picture perfect.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Everyone quieted down when the co-captains cleared their throats. The girl spoke first.

“The School Board has made a decision on who will be sponsored for the Archery Tournament.”

Several eyes drifted to the only Black, who was fidgeting with one of her handmade arrows.

“Congratulations are due to Miss Reynirdóttir, who will represent the Academy in the upcoming tournament.”

There was a general agreement and a few congratulatory words, but the other co-captain sensed something was off, and couldn’t help asking. “Is there something on your mind?”

Artica had a helpless smile on her face. “I am deeply honored that the School Board selected me, but…”

The fact that there could be a ‘but’ bewildered everyone in the club.

“I signed up as an independent participant the moment the inscription was open and can no longer modify it.”

The co-captains eyed each other. Was this girl insane? Why in the Nine Realms would she be that rash, when the School Board had already given the date for their announcement? Everyone, including her, had worked hard during the examinations, so how was this possible?

“I am unable to represent the Academy, but there is no shortage of skilled archers in this club. I have no doubt the runner-up is ready for this challenge.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“You declined?”

“Go ahead, say it. P, Pa, and Bud already chewed me out for it yesterday.”

Fenrir looked at her with a confused expression. “I’m in no position to do that, but I don't get it. I thought that is what you were aiming for since the start of the school year.”

“It was, until our visit to the Viking Tiger family manor.”

“Oh?”

“Lady Tilda provided me with top-of-the-line equipment, bow included, and the Academy would do the same… yet it feels awkward. Those aren't my arrows, nor my armguard, and certainly not my bow. I realize it sounds childish, but it's just uncomfortable.”

Fenrir finished the last of his greasy burger and took a sip from his drink. “What did former tournament winner Boreal say?”

“That if he won with an armguard that fell apart mid-shot, a cracked leather chestguard, and a bow as old as balls, I’d be fine,” Artica replied with a laugh.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Sitting on the bench under the large tree in the southern gardens, the air felt heavy with tension. Malik tightened and relaxed his fists several times before finally standing up all of a sudden and facing him. It was better to settle this now, because every passing day, he felt himself falling behind more and more. After all, his latest invitations had been promptly declined.

“My lord, the truth is I find you attractive, and would like to formally ask you on a date.”

Fenrir didn’t move but blinked twice at his words. He smiled curtly. “I cannot say I understand how you find me attractive.”

Malik tightened his lips, sensing the answer already.

“I must refuse, but I thank you for your consideration. You flatter me.”

In many ways, he already knew Fenrir would say that. His curiosity, however, got the better of him. “Is it because of me, or something else?”

“Pardon?”

“Do you refuse because it is me who asks, or is there another reason?”

The golden eyes widened a bit, and there was a tiny hint of blush on Fenrir’s cheeks. “Oh. I, uh, happen to be interested in someone else… Accepting your invitation knowing I would be half-hearted about it would be disrespectful.”

“I understand, my lord. Thank you for your honesty.”

Of course. Bet it was that someone else, no doubt. Malik let out a sigh, feeling somewhat relieved despite it all. He knew he’d been a dick a few times in the past, and worried that would stir Fenrir away from him, yet it seemed it was the same old obstacle he couldn’t overcome that had finally beaten him.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Artica moved the cat toy from left to right, at the expense of an exhausted Thelonious. “I invited him to the music pub.”

Rúri started mixing more enthusiastically. “Oh? Good choice! Sweetie, did you hear that?”

“Hair down, loose skirt, and stockings (height is your choice)!” Karianne yelled from the other room, busy writing down notes for their culinary presentation. “We already discussed this back at the girls’ night. You have this one in the bag.”

The Black smiled as the memory came back to her.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“Why did you not tell him yesterday? You were alone in his room, and there was a guarantee of no interruptions.”

“The meeting. Y’know how much he overthinks everything. I was afraid he'd just fixate on that and not discuss whatever it was he needed to ask your parents."

"Very thoughtful of you, but also a waste of such ideal circumstances," Karianne said. She was wrapped like a burrito in a fluffy, green blanket.

Rúri was busy stroking Syd's beautiful white cat, Giada. She purred tenderly on the blonde's lap. "Then why did you not tell him afterwards?"

"Chickened out; don't have an excuse for that."

"If I may," Ritva politely intervened. "Based purely on the last few days, during which I’ve seen you interact, he seems to greatly enjoy your company."

Artica gave her a small smile. "We’re very good friends."

"Yes, that is clear, but when you asked if he was going to finish his chocolate mousse last night, he looked like he was going to melt."

"What? Do tell us more, honey!" Karianne requested, unrolling herself from her blanket. "I have to sit on the other side of the table, I miss all the good stuff!"

"Miss Reynirdóttir gave him these big doe eyes… asking for the rest of his dessert. To be fair, I would’ve given you mine too."

Artica let out an embarrassed, awkward laugh. "Oh… but it was so delicious! I just- and he said it was okay!"

"Of course he said that! What kind of asshole would decline? But considering his sweet tooth…"

Rúri shoved a handful of snacks in her mouth, thoughtful. "I think you should just go ahead, dear. You get along so well, it feels like a natural development… and you are his favorite, after all."

“His what?”

There was an awkward silence. Rúri went suddenly blank, but Karianne was giving her the stare which meant she had to clarify right now. “W-well, is it not the truth? He teams up with you whenever possible, you frequently share food and other items, and usually turns to you for help…”

“That’s non-specific to being romantically interested. That’s just a normal friendship.”

Karianne sat on the bed with her legs crossed, supporting her chin on her hand. “Sweetie, you are close friends with Bud too. Actually, you two are best friends, and it feels entirely different. I am confident my darling and you share at least one brain cell, but with Fenrir? No, it is not the same.”

Artica let out a sigh before gently collapsing over a pillow. “I feel so silly. You’re right. I should’ve just spilled it out and been done with it, regardless of whether I think he’s interested or not.”

“No, no, there is no rush either. Per your hobby, I believe you agree there is such a thing as ‘thrill of the hunt’, yes?”

She laughed, nodding at her words. Rúri passed the snack bowl with a smile. “It is settled, then. There is a Northern Wolf out there. Happy hunting!”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Karianne found him sitting outside one of the greenhouses. “Bud said you would like to speak to me in private?”

“Yes. I hope to not take too much of your time.”

“Do not be silly, honey, it is no trouble. How may I help you?”

Fenrir’s gaze focused on the fountain across the courtyard. “I’m going to hang out with someone I’m interested in, but I have… questions. A different perspective would be helpful.”

The girl with black curls crossed one leg over the other. “In case it gets physical? Or what exactly are we talking about?”

“Yeah… I mean, not that that’s the only thing on my mind!” he quickly clarified. “I just don’t wanna make a fool out of myself, doing something inappropriate. Bud said that, sometimes, something physical happens before you actually say the thing.”

“He is speaking from experience.”

Fenrir said nothing.

“Do you know how to kiss?”

“No.”

“Would you like me to teach you?”

Fenrir knew Karianne was just teasing him, but somehow felt a new need to clarify. “I would rather not, my lady. Should someone hear about it, I see no way to justify it to your partner, or… the person I'm interested in.”

Her magenta eyes fixed on him like a hawk on its next prey. “If I asked who this person is, would you answer me honestly?”

“Would you keep that knowledge between us?”

“Yes.”

“Then yes.”

She laid her hands on her lap in a patient gesture. “Who is it?”

Fenrir was blushing so hard, even the tips of his ears were scarlet. Karianne repressed a squeal of victory when the name she was expecting came right out of his mouth. Hearing him finally say it out loud was so satisfying.

“Well, would you look at that~! And yes, it would be difficult to explain if I gave you practical lessons… so I will try to be as clear as possible with words only.”

"Bud tried and-"

"That fool would not be able to explain the delicate art of kissing if his life depended on it."

Fenrir lowered his gaze. "Maybe I wouldn't understand either way."

"Oh, sweetie, that is not what I mean. You two are too different, just like Artica and I are also different. Kissing is not just about your mouth. It is about intimacy, closing the gap between one heart and another…"

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

They had slowly closed the gap between them with each passing song and were now right next to each other, knees touching lightly. Artica sheepishly side-eyed Fenrir, still in disbelief over how different he looked wearing a sweater over a button shirt instead of his usual hoodies. Fenrir couldn’t believe his luck either; it was uncommon for Artica to wear her hair down, but boy, it looked so good on her...!

They noticed each other’s gaze. Fenrir, trying to remember Karianne's tips, leaned a bit in her direction and for a moment, it seemed to him she was doing the same.

Artica was more than ready for this, her chest tight with anticipation. That was, until the next band started playing. The singer's voice stung her like a poisoned knife, and she immediately turned to the stage.

It was her, no doubt about it. Long, dark hair, and big, bright eyes, singing with such spark, the whole venue was hooked. Artica was too stunned to take her eyes off the singer, and for the rest of their performance, didn’t dare move. However, the song cover played by the last band kickstarted some courage back into her, and as they were exiting the pub, she turned to him.

"Hey, Fenrir, the truth is I really li-"

But then she heard it. That melodious laugh that used to be around her all day long. A few paces behind him stood a girl with glass earrings Artica would recognize anywhere. Her eyes darted from the singer to Fenrir several times, her heart broken all over again.

"Yes…?"

The last of her courage disappeared. "I, uh… I like the live music here! Very trendy, right?"

Fenrir gave her a small nod. Even if he didn’t know what she was going to say, he could tell that was not it. "Yeah, the bands that played today were neat."

It was clear something was bothering her, yet he was unable to ease the tension. In silence, they walked to the train station, and when Fenrir passed the gates, Artica did not follow.

He tilted his head. "Is something wrong?"

Artica wanted to nod but shook her head. "I just remembered I need to pick something up from a friend of Ma's."

"I understand," Fenrir said, but his tone hinted otherwise. He shuffled around his bag and pulled out a cat-shaped mint chocolate. Artica's favorite. "Here, for the walk home."

She took the treat, unsure on how to feel about it. "Thanks. I'll see you on Monday."

"Yeah, and…" he gave her a half smile. "Sorry if I… made you uncomfortable."

"What?"

Fenrir was already walking towards the platform and did not look back. She felt a sting in her chest. Now that was great; making him feel it was his fault the night ended with a low note. Artica started her way back home full of self-reproach.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“You almost had it!” Syd encouraged her with a sympathetic smile.

Rúri sipped her tea quietly. “May I ask why this girl…?”

Artica gave them a short explanation, realizing she had never really told them the whole thing.

“Dear, you are stretching yourself thin,” the blonde said after a while. “You want to reach out for Fenrir, but your other hand is still clinging to this girl. If nothing else will come of it, you must let her go.”

The other two stared at her in silence, impressed by her eloquence. Syd rubbed Artica’s arm gently. “She is right. You should move forward, even if you feel the same thing might happen.”

Rúri offered her the fruit tartlet. “No, you must trust it will be different this time. Every time.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

"I think you might be overreacting."

"No, you don't understand. I leaned in as you suggested, but she didn’t turn, or shake her head. She flinched away from me!"

Fenrir covered his face, mortified. Karianne squeezed his hand sympathetically, wishing she had talked to Artica beforehand. "Maybe she just chickened out, you know?"

"Maybe I should just drop it. I would rather let these feelings rot inside me than ruin our friendship."

"Coward."

Fenrir turned to her with a bewildered expression, but Karianne only narrowed her eyes.

"You are the one chickening out! One single negative instance, regardless of the many positive ones, has you like this? Truly, I thought better of you."

He tightened his lips, equal parts annoyed and ashamed. "It’s easy for you to say! You’re outgoing, charming, and popular! I'm not like that. I'm awkward, clueless, and hopeless. I cannot afford to lose the only friends I barely managed to make."

"Who was your first friend?"

"She was! You know that! She asked, explicitly, to be my friend! And I wouldn't have talked to you, or the others, if it wasn't for her."

Karianne let out a deep sigh. She lightly combed his hair with her fingers. "Fenrir, you are overthinking one little thing, and that will get you nowhere. Have you ever considered she might do the same? Fret over what she has said to you, or done in your presence? Worry you might think she is embarrassing?"

"She is not, it irks me when she says that."

The girl with magenta eyes smiled. "Look, let's make a deal. You already tried to approach her once, and it did not go as you expected. Try one more time, and if she explicitly does not feel the same, then that is that. You may continue with your friendship and let those feelings dry inside of you. The point here is that one attempt is not enough. Have some courage and try again."

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Vaito stared at the piece of paper, trying to understand the messy handwriting. He gave up almost immediately. ‘I can’t read this. You want Sis to do what?’

The Blue let out a sigh, aware his handwriting was not, and would probably never be, aesthetically pleasing. ‘Remember the banner she made for your first match? Something like that, but smaller.’

‘Hm… Is this aside from the one Bud requested?’

Fuck Bud, Fenrir thought. ‘Yeah, whatever he asked for, that’s got nothing to do with me. I want…’

It took a while for Vaito to write all the details down, but he nonchalantly asked for payment upfront. ‘Sis needs to buy all the materials to start working.’

Fenrir didn’t mind and added a little extra. ‘No word of this to anyone, please. Only your sister and you will know about it.’

‘Why? Is it a surprise?’ Fenrir gave Vaito a look congratulating him for stating the obvious. ‘Of course, full privacy. Promise.’

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Conversation over lunch was lively while they discussed their winter break vacations. The treasure hunt, the paintball fights, the pijama party, the ice skating over the frozen lake, and so much more. It was only when a soft thunk echoed that they suddenly went quiet. Artica had been silently sliding off to the side until she finally bumped into the wall, asleep.

“Oh… She’s been hitting extra practice sessions after school and club activities for several weeks now…” Bud explained quietly. “It seems it’s finally catching up with her.”

“What time is it?”

“13:21.”

“Good, she can still rest until the next class period,” Rúri said, gently nudging her shoulder. “Sweetie, come with me. I know where you will be more comfortable.”

Artica went along groggily, not particularly aware of what was happening. Fenrir tried to go with them, but the blonde raised her hand to stop him. “It is alright, dear. I will just drop her off. You can go get her before class.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

He walked in quietly, trying to make no noise. The Academy was known for covering students' every need, and that included a place to rest if they felt unwell, or simply tired. Fenrir noticed there was only one person there. Gently, he nudged her shoulder.

"Artica," he whispered. "Lunch time is almost over."

She stirred a bit but became fully alert after recognizing his voice. Artica desperately tried to rub the sleepiness out of her eyes. "Thanks for waking me up."

"No problem," Fenrir answered, taking a deep breath. "I have something for you."

She felt a sudden rush but did her best to ignore it. It didn’t help that they were alone, in a dimly lit room. He pulled a box out of his jacket and handed it to her. Artica opened her eyes wide after reading the brand on the lid. It contained a pair of gloves; the pair of tan-colored, three-fingered, deerskin shooting gloves they had seen that time in the Upper Market.

"Are they really for me?"

"Yes, I…" Fenrir gently squeezed her arm, not knowing how to say what he really wanted to say. "I know it’s not about the gear, but I figured it might be more comfortable for you…"

Her heart was aching terribly. Artica ended up hugging him. "Thanks, I love… them. I will treasure these gloves forever."

Just like I treasure you. Her heart ached even more, ashamed those words did not dare leave her.

Fenrir returned the hug with one arm. One phrase, that is all he had to say to free himself from that sting in his chest.

You are dear to me and I'm sorry I'm not brave enough to say it out loud yet.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

The two siblings took a deep breath.

“This brings back memories,” the young man said, looking at the competitors doing last-minute checks on their gear.

“Remind me, how old were you at that time?” the woman with cream-colored earmuffs asked. “Seventeen too?”

“Almost eighteen; that year it got delayed a few months.”

“Really? Time flies! You know, it is not fair to the other competitors, but I am hoping the cup will come home once again.”

He had to laugh. “Don’t let him hear you say that, he takes this event too seriously.”

“Yes, but he is also terribly obvious. I am hoping we can…” she was saying, but a sudden push from behind cut her off. As she turned around, an Academy student was already bowing in her direction. The woman could tell it was an Academy student because he followed etiquette without skipping a beat.

“Apologies, my lady,” he said in an eloquent tone. It caught her attention that he was wearing an awfully familiar scarf. “Have I hurt you?”

“Not at all, my lord, all is well,” she answered with a short bow.

“We need to hurry, it’s about to start!”

The student side-eyed the person who called out to him. He gave them a final nod and went off to join a group of loud teenagers in the stands.

The man sighed. “Well, I guess we should head back too.”

“Yes, let us go to our seats. I am sure we will be able to talk after the tournament is over.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“Alright. Syd you take this end, please, and I’ll get the other one,” Bud was saying, handing him one pole of the banner he had commissioned from Aalu. There was a small collective gasp as they unfurled it to reveal a stunning illustration of a dark bird with penetrating bright eyes on a light green background. Unlike the banner Aalu made for her brother, this one had no text on it.

“‘Silver-eyed Hawk’, of course,” Levina's voice said nearby. “She will be greatly pleased.”

Fenrir noticed she was right next to Vaike, Vaike's sister, and a graduate he knew by sight but not by name. Their corner was packed with other familiar faces from the Academy as well. Asgrim, Heimrik, and some junior Blacks, seniors who seemed more interested in chatting than the tournament itself, and even teachers enjoying their day off.

Bud noticed a couple waving from the other side of the field, pointing excitedly at the banner.

“Wow, Embla and Reynir got some pretty neat seats! Is it because their daughter is competing?” Fenrir asked, surprised.

“Indeed! Look, they are rather close to the area Father is sitting at!” Karianne added.

Bud side-eyed them with a smile. “Nah. They got those seats because…-”

“There she is!” Rúri interrupted, pointing towards the center of the field, where many other people were getting in line.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Artica eyed the other competitors curiously.

Several were wearing what was basically a uniform; matching gear and clothing with this or that badge. The student selected to represent the Academy, the male co-captain, was no different, a navy blue outfit with the school’s coat of arms on his back, and on his hat. It was a great look.

Artica herself was wearing a white long-sleeved blouse and jeans, both in a tight fit. Her boots reached just under her knees, and were the same worn, black leather as her chestguard and armguard. The quiver Bud gave her for her birthday hung from her belt, and Fenrir’s precious gift was already on her hands. It was not a homogeneous look, with the mismatching bits and pieces, but this was what felt more comfortable to her.

A blond tournament officer with cheerful green eyes took a step forward and reached for the microphone on the podium.

“Welcome to the annual Archery Tournament that seeks to strengthen the bonds between our Kingdom and the Asgardian Principality! We thank Crown Princess Freyja, from the Winged Crown, and Crown Prince Adalhar, from the Illustrious Fox, for joining us today!”

Both royals stood from their privileged seats and waved at the cheering crowd. Teenage Freyja looked rather short next to Adalhar, who was already past his mid-twenties.

“To all the spectators, thank you for your support, and we hope you enjoy today’s magnificent skill display!” the man continued, ecstatic. “To all the competitors, glory is within your reach! May your arrows strike true for victory!”

The crowd cheered again, and it was only then that Artica noticed the large banner on the far side of the field. She recognized those right under it and was flattered to see other familiar faces cheering when her name was mentioned. Even the former Archery Captain was there!

As everyone took their place, Artica did a few stretches.

"Nervous?"

She turned to the blond man with green eyes, smiling. "A bit, a bit, but it's nice to see a familiar face here on the field. And you?"

"I have been a tournament officer for over ten years now, so this is business as usual to me, but I am excited to finally see you in the Asgardian line-up! Do your best. Whether that results in winning the event or not, it is unimportant.”

They waved goodbye to each other as the horn for the first round blasted loudly.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Shit.

Shit. Shit. Shit. SHIT.

How could she miss that moving target? She hunted moving targets for sport, this was fucking ridiculous! Even the crowd gasped in disbelief as her arrow flew off center and hit a tree.

So far, every time an archer missed a shot that would grant them the points to move forward, they were eliminated from the board. The foreign archer that had been keeping up with her didn’t miss and was now ahead. They were the last two.

Shit.

Artica was biting her lower lip, frustrated. With only one shot left, there was no way to gain that point back. Ugh! How could she miss that moving target!

She turned around at the gentle tap on her shoulder. The foreign archer gave her a small nod. “You are skilled, Asgardian. I was hoping for someone like you to show up today.”

“Thank you. You are quite skilled yourself. I guess I will be the first to congratulate you on your victory.”

“No, I have not won anything yet, and I would like it to be more interesting than this. Would you be up for a trick shot?”

The Black raised an eyebrow. There was indeed a clause somewhere in the tournament rules that allowed deviations in shot types, and for some reason, whoever wrote that clause thought it would be entertaining to allow trick shots as well, if the finalists both agreed on it.

She knew a few trick shots; after all, that was really riled crowds up. The thing was, she didn’t know this archer’s trick shots, and that was the key to everything. As they were not required to perform the same trick, the complexity of what they chose to do was what truly defined how many points it was worth. Artica needed at least 2 to win, but she could tell this archer had some ridiculously cool trick in mind, otherwise they wouldn’t have suggested this in the first place.

Nodding to herself, she narrowed her eyes and gave them her best smile. “Let’s do this.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

She eyed the change of plans with curiosity. “Well, what an interesting development. What do you think this trick shot is even about, Crown Prince Adalhar?”

Her foreign counterpart eyed his own pamphlet, an eyebrow raised. “It is interesting indeed, Crown Princess Freyja. You Asgardians are full of surprises, I know that well, so I am eager to wait and see."

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

The tournament officer looked at the contents of the paper bag, unconvinced. “Are you sure?”

“I have no choice; it has to be that one. Don’t have the equipment for something more elaborate, and if I nail it, it would be like a 5+ point combo, right?”

“If you nail it, yes…”

“You don’t think I can?”

“It is not that. I just wish it had not come to this. Trick shots are, well, tricky! The archer from my Kingdom might have something even more extravagant up their sleeve. I cannot help thinking that after they said you could go first.”

“We’re about to find out. Put the stuff on the tray and on my signal, yeet it into the air.”

The blond man emptied the paper bag. He pushed his glasses up as he sighed. “Ready.”

“On my mark. 1… 2… 3!

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

A thousand eyes widened as the arrow pierced all the items and then lodged itself into the very center of the middle target at the back of the field.

The young man was shaking his sister in disbelief.

“No. Fucking. Way! She nailed it! SHE NAILED THE-!”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“FRUIT. SALAD. SANDWICH!” the foreign archer said, laughing out loud between every word as they twirled the arrow in their hands. It caught a piece of bread, an apple, a peach, a banana, and another piece of bread (in that order) in midair. The fletching prevented the items from sliding off, so everything arrived safely at the target destination.

“This is so ridiculous, I love it!” the archer cackled in delight.

The tournament officer politely asked him to proceed with their own trick shot, but they declined.

“No, thank you. I do not want to make a fool out of myself trying to top this fucking FRUIT SALAD SANDWICH.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“… and finally, the winner of this year’s Archery Tournament is Artica Reynirdóttir, from the Asgardian Principality!” the officer announced with a big smile, giving the participant next to him the metal cup. The locals in the crowd cheered when she held it up for all to see, but a specific corner full of teenagers went wild.

Artica came down the stage, and was surrounded at once by a reporter, two photographers, and Crown Princess Freyja, who wanted to personally congratulate her on that preposterous win. However, after a few minutes, the blond man gently touched her shoulder.

“May I have a final word?”

“Sure, Ka- Officer,” Artica replied, excusing herself and following him into the tent used by the event organizers. She almost dropped the cup in surprise. “What are you guys doing here!”

“Hey, lil’ sis!” Boreal greeted her with a tight hug, lifting her off the ground for a moment. “You’ve grown up so much, you finally made your own Sandwich! Formally graduated from Hawkling to the new Silver-eyed Hawk!”

When he let her go, Polar pinched her cheeks gleefully. “As expected, you snatched that cup right out of foreign hands! We can guard it at home once more!”

The blond man put his hand on his chest, shocked. “Darling! How can you say such a thing!”

“No, no, sweetie, do not give me that look! I know you were cheering for her too!” she said, wagging her finger.

“No point denying it, Kalervo, you’re a man that wears his heart on his sleeve, and it was truly with me,” Artica said with a big smile, squeezing his arm.

“Well, what can I say…”

Boreal then noticed what she was wearing, and quickly grabbed her hand. “Wow! Where’d you get these gloves? They’re amazing!”

His younger sister gave him an awkward smile. “Oh, they were a gift from a classmate.”

“From that one?” Polar asked, peeking out the tent and pointing at the silver-haired boy that bumped into her earlier that day.

“Y-yeah. How’d you know that, P?”

The older sister turned around with a seemingly innocent smile. “Well, he is wearing the hand-knit scarf I made you.”

That was the second time Artica almost dropped her hard-earned cup. Her face turned scarlet.

“I-I-I can explain!” she squealed, realizing it was not entirely true. She knew why he had the scarf, but not why he was wearing it.

The three adults gave her mischievous grins. “No need, lil’ sis. You are at that age, after all.”

“Oh, shut up!”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

“My older siblings, Polar and Boreal, and Polar’s husband, Lord Kalervo,” she introduced.

“Delighted to make your acquaintance, my lady, my lords” Syd replied, immediately bowing and kissing Polar’s hand. Karianne, Rúri, and Fenrir also gave them a short bow.

“A fine group of Asgard Academy students, I see,” Boreal said with an approving smile. “Except that one.”

Bud made a mocking gesture while hugging Polar. The other girls and Syd enthusiastically bombarded Kalervo with questions about the Neighboring Kingdom, which he answered at once, delighted in their interest. Artica handed Fenrir her cup and showed her where her and Boreal’s name were engraved, several years apart.

The siblings couldn’t help asking. “Are they dating?”

Bud was not surprised. “Not yet, but I’m pretty sure that’s how it’s gonna turn out.”

“No? They look pretty close to me already,” Polar said, taking note of the boy's body language.

“They’re at that awkward impasse where you sort of know it's mutual but still need to gather the courage to say it out loud. And he’s a challenge by himself."

“You’re going to have to explain that one further, because they look this close,” Boreal made a pinching gesture. “To kissing.”

“Fenrir was homeschooled until he was sixteen and struggles to understand other people’s nuances. He also seems oblivious to his own unintentional nuance.”

“Examples?”

“At the beginning of Year 1, Fenrir asked her if they could talk alone more often. He apparently meant it to avoid people from staring at a Blue and a Black mingling, but I mean, c’mon.”

Neither sibling spoke. Bud rubbed his chin, trying to remember.

“A girl from another class invited him to the Street Market; her intentions were clear. Fenrir went to that, and later that same day, invited Artica to go to the same place a week later. He apparently didn’t perceive either as a date. There was also that time he....”

“So what you’re saying is that he’s an idiot?” Boreal asked with an unimpressed look.

“No! I mean, not that kind of idiot. A little clueless, I guess. Artica seems to have a good grasp of whatever he says, though.”

“And little sis doesn’t want to expect something that might not be there,” Polar replied with a thoughtful expression.

“It is there, they’re just being really stupid about it.”

“She does like him, then?”

“Yeah, a lot.”

“Very well,” she said, and called the younger sister over. “Hey, we are going out for dinner to celebrate your victory! Why not invite your friend to join us? He is the one that comes over often, yes? Mother mentioned him.”

Artica was blushing slightly before approaching but went full scarlet at Polar’s words. She saw Kalervo enthusiastically strike up a conversation with Fenrir from the corner of her eye. “Thank you. I’ll ask him. Just…”

“Yes?”

“If he decides to come… don’t tease him, please. Fenrir’s very self-conscious, if you truly want him to have a good time, then cut him some slack and… try to smooth out any awkwardness.”

They gave her a nod as she returned to Fenrir and Kalervo. The siblings looked at Bud, who gave them a smirk. “See?”

“That was indeed very… thoughtful of her,” Boreal whispered.

Polar looked at her husband and the two teenagers beside him. “He is dear to her; I can see that. In my book, another person looking out for Artica is always welcomed.”

Bud nodded. “You know, back when she still had to wear the eyepatch, a Blue was talking shit about her in front of everyone. Fenrir called him out on it. I don’t think they were friends at the time, and Artica wasn’t even there to witness it, but I could already see there was something connecting them.”

“My heart,” she said with a hand gesture. “Do you think he can take me pinching his cheeks?”

“We already promised," Boreal reminded her with a laugh. "No teasing.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Fenrir suddenly stopped just outside the entrance. “Wait! Wait.”

Artica turned around to see him remove the hand-knitted gray scarf and neatly fold it onto her hands. “Here. I went to your house this morning to check if you needed help, and to give this back, because it was really windy, but there was no one home, and then it got chilly in the field so I kinda… Sorry. I should’ve just…”

“Thanks!” was all she said, wrapping it around her neck the second it was in her hands. “So warm! C'mon, let’s go inside.”

The boy remained frozen on the spot.

“Hm? Everything alright?”

“Is it really not a problem for me to be here?” he asked, clearly nervous. “You haven’t seen them in a while, I wouldn’t want to…”

“Not at all, and even if something does come up, I will make it my business to ensure it is not a problem for you,” she replied with a solemn face, but broke into a smile a moment later. “Fenrir, it really isn’t. Today’s a special day and I’m super happy you decided to celebrate with me!”

He looked into her eyes and calmed down a bit. Artica never offered him empty words, only honest ones. It would be disrespectful to second guess her. “Thank you… for inviting me.”

Fenrir followed her to the table. Her parents, siblings, brother-in-law, Sannfrid, and Bud had already taken their seats. The restaurant was a small, cozy place in the south part of the city, and the table was on the terrace, with a fantastic view of the clear night sky.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

The conversation had changed subjects so many times, it was starting to seem hopeless to take part in it. Fenrir’s eyes were darting back and forth, trying to keep up, when he noticed Polar was looking at him.

“Everything well, my lord?”

“Yes. I’m good. Please feel free to drop the formal language with me, my lady. I prefer it, to be honest.”

“Oh, I am aware. Mother and Father have told us a great deal about you.”

“They have?” Fenrir echoed nervously.

Her husband turned to him as well, smiling. “Certainly, my lord! One of Artica’s Blue friends at the Academy. You even gave her a hand that time with the dog, is that not so?”

“Yeah… It was a coincidence, though, I’m sure Bud would’ve gotten there before something happened.”

Kalervo smiled again. “You seem like a good lad. Your parents must be very proud!”

Fenrir didn’t reply, as Artica handed him the menu and started discussing the desserts. He couldn’t help laughing at how she insisted on getting the chocolate mousse.

“Little sis, have you decided what you would like for your eighteenth birthday?”

“Please accept our invitation! Come to my Kingdom, and I will make sure you see every corner of it!”

“Kalervo, it would be just after I start Year 3…”

The man sighed. “A few days should not be too bad? At least consider it after you graduate…!”

“And you, young man? What will you do?”

“Just receive the title at the Palace and call it a day, I guess...” Fenrir answered absently.

The awkward silence made him look up from the menu. Both Polar and Kalervo seemed deeply aggravated.

“I am… very sorry to hear that, my lord,” she said in a soft whisper. “I was not aware, my apologies…”

It took Fenrir a moment to understand Polar’s reaction, and it also became clear Artica hadn’t discussed the subject with her family. Syd (possibly Bud), Karianne, and Rúri knew likely because their parents told them about the accident, so he was grateful for Artica's discretion.

“It is what it is, my lady. No need to avoid the simple truth.”

His words made the situation even more awkward. Neither Kalervo or the sisters knew what to reply, and Fenrir himself had nothing else to say. It was the third sibling, who’d been casually eavesdropping, that saved the day.

“What do you mean, ‘wolves in Northern Asgard’? That’s bullshit, Dad.”

Reynir, vaguely aware of what Boreal was doing, cleared his throat. “Right? A fantasy, nothing more.”

Artica immediately noticed the spasm in Fenrir’s right eye as he took an angry sip from his ale. “How many times do I have to teach you this lesson, old man!”

And that was that. The conversation got lively again, and this time, everyone felt comfortable taking part in it.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

A sudden bump shook the table. Artica let out a deep sigh while rubbing her knee before noticing everyone was staring at her. “S-sorry, it caught me off guard.”

A stray dog walked out from under the table sniffing around for scraps. Even though they were all surprised, nobody said anything. Considering the mere sight of a dog used to cause her anxiety attacks, Artica's reaction was very casual.

Polar noticed the subtle, reassuring nod Fenrir gave her. Almost too subtle. It was meant only for her, about something only they shared. The conversation started up once more, and Kalervo took the opportunity to lean into his wife and whisper.

“He is holding her hand,” he said, squeezing hers.

“I know,” Polar whispered back with a big smile on her face. “I can tell.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Artica stood by the tree, annoyed from top to bottom.

Why did this douchebag start again with his note-leaving bullshit to meet after school? She was already planning her polite, dry replies, so she could hurry back home. After all, today was the day, no more excuses. They were all going to the Walpurgisnacht (1) festival and before anything else, she was going to look Fenrir straight in the eye and tell him how she felt. If he declined, then that was that, and if he accepted, it was gonna be a hell of a night!

When she heard shuffling behind her, Artica turned around with exasperation. Fenrir had a minor heart attack after seeing such a scary expression on her face but felt relieved to see it soften right away. He was already nervous; it would not end well if Artica was angry (whether at him or someone else).

“Hey…! I’m glad you could come…!”

She felt her chest tighten. This was not what she thought was going to happen. Why did he leave a note to meet here in the school gardens, of all places? Why not her house, or the place by the creek? And what was he holding behind his back? Artica couldn’t keep her mind from flooding with endless scenarios.

“H-Hey…! What a surprise! I didn’t think the note was from you.”

Fenrir suddenly realized that, unlike him, she had already experienced situations like this. Why wouldn't she, being a normal teenager who could grasp other’s feelings so naturally?

His hands started to shake at the possibility of looking like a fool and wished he’d thought about that beforehand, but he was so tired of thinking everything beforehand. He just wanted to say this one thing on his own terms and hope for the best. Fenrir pulled his hand from behind his back, carefully holding what he brought.

“Artica, I… I wanted to…”

She opened her eyes wide. “Is that… a Winter Rose?”

“Y-yeah, I brought you one from…”

“…the bush under your Lady Mother’s window?” Artica interrupted, with a shaky tone. She could not, would not, believe what was happening. “F-for me?”

“I… brought it because…” Fenrir came closer, right in front of her. He stared at the flower, shuffling words in his head. Because what? You know what, so just say it!

He knew his feelings were true; he’d definitely thought about them, and her, as often as the day allowed. He’d prepared for the worst-case scenario time and time again, considering himself unworthy of a victorious outcome. Fenrir was okay with it, or at least he thought he was, but didn’t want to keep it hidden. Just this once, he felt it needed to be said.

Artica waited in silence, awfully aware of their slight height difference. He looked nervous and mortified, like her, and it was all suddenly clear. The thing she was convinced could not be, truly was.

“Fenrir, could it be that you… like me?” she asked in a high-pitched tone, her heart beating faster every second.

He froze, anxious. This was it. Fenrir took a deep breath and prayed for Ging to give him strength. “I do like you, a lot, and I understand if you do not feel the same way.”

Artica felt like slapping him. “You don’t understand, clearly, because I do feel the same way.”

A deep shade of red took over their faces as they stared at each other in silence. Artica took his hands in hers and gave them a meaningful squeeze.

“Do you truly like the girl who looks like a scar-faced goblin?”

“I really hate that phrase. Your scar is one of my favorite things about you,” Fenrir replied, gently touching it. Self-doubt got to him too, and he avoided her gaze.

“Do you truly like… the awkward kid from up north?”

Artica cupped his cheek in a reassuring gesture and made him look into her silver eyes. There was a sparkle in them he had never seen before.

“I do. I dream of him being happy back in the mountains, not feeling awkward ever again.”

He hugged her tight and whispered. “Would you like to go out with me?”

“I would really like that, yes.”

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

Bud looked terribly disappointed. “I can’t believe you said that.”

“What! Isn’t it the mature thing to say?” he spat back, somewhat annoyed. “One can’t assume other people’s feelings!”

“Fenrir, sweetie, I know this is sort of new for you,” Karianne interrupted. “But it was obvious to everyone you had a crush on each other.”

His heart sank. “What? Truly?”

“Painfully,” Syd agreed. “Sometimes, it felt like a third person was going to have to intervene and explain it to you.”

“So, you just watched us clown around for months without saying anything? Couldn’t spare a little help?” Artica asked, outraged. There was a pale blue rose pinned to her braid.

“Bud did help me out a few times,” Fenrir thought out loud. “I didn’t always see it, though.”

The older twin felt everyone’s gaze on him and refused to acknowledge it. “I didn’t intervene.”

“You better not have, after pestering us to not do it either!” Karianne warned with her finger.

Artica grabbed him by the shoulders. “Clowning around! For months! You knew the whole time!”

He finally looked at her with a cheeky smile. “Like I said, I didn’t intervene… but I did nudge some things along. Like the Dísablót carnival.”

She let him go, her face crimson with realization. Rúri did not fail to notice this. “Oh? And what happened during the carnival, besides the general chaos caused by the thunderstorm?”

Artica covered her face. “Nothing!”

They stared at Fenrir, who could only give them a silly smile as answer.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

They’d been talking for hours; before, during, and after the festival. They laid together on the bed in the room next to Fenrir’s, on top of a million pillows, staring endlessly.

He wasn’t sure when it happened, but he knew it definitely happened. Slowly, he learned to read the expressions of her asymmetrical face, to wait for her cheerful calls, to yearn for the warmth of her touch. He couldn't claim to be as direct as Bud, or as charming as Syd, but somehow, he too learned how to love someone.

She didn’t remember thinking about it before, but she definitely thought about it now. Slowly, she noticed how gently he had always spoken to her (no matter the situation), how attentive he seemed to her voice, how caring was the warmth in his touch. She knew she wasn’t as eye-catching as Karianne, or as endearing as Rúri, but somehow, she relearned how to love someone.

Artica reached for his face with one hand, engulfed by his golden eyes. They almost seemed to shine in the dark. Fenrir grabbed her hand and pressed it gently against his cheek.

“I can’t find a way to describe it… I can only be thankful that somehow, these feelings managed to reach you.”

“I am so glad… that these feelings inside me reached you too. You are so dear to me, so precious, that being liked back is a blessing...”

“I didn’t think I would experience it at all, given… everything… but you‘re precious to me too. My precious best friend, first friend. First love.”

He moved a little closer, and his heart skipped a beat when Artica closed the gap between them. Their noses were almost touching.

“Would it be okay if I gave you a kiss?” she asked, blushing a deeper shade of red than before.

Fenrir gave her a shy smile and closed his eyes when he felt her lips on his. It was not cheeky or provocative, just a gentle kiss, connecting two souls in one gesture. He felt himself blushing too.

"Do you like cuddling?"

Fenrir was taken aback. "I don't… know…"

It suddenly occurred to Artica that, since he hadn't had a partner before, and the people he lived with were distant and cold, his parents were probably the last to cuddle him. Many, many winters ago.

She moved closer. "Cuddling is mostly holding one another close, embracing. Would you like to try it?"

At his nod, Artica gently slid her arm around him, letting him rest his head on her clavicle. "We don't have to sleep like this, just so you know. You can move whenever you want."

Fenrir didn't want to, ever. He realized how starved for touch he'd been for so long, and truly did not want to part from a gentle embrace like that ever again. His own arm wrapped around her and gave a gentle squeeze.

“Kjæreste (2),” Artica said in a sleepy tone.

“Kjæreste,” Fenrir repeated dreamily.

‘Kjæreste’, echoed in their hearts.

x+x+x+x+x+x+x

She woke up and looked out the window. It was pitch black. “Oh, shit.”

At some point, she slept face up, and Fenrir curled up next to her. Artica got off the bed and started to gather her things as quietly as possible. He still stirred after sensing the lack of warmth at his side.

“It’s a little late. I’m going home before Ma starts worrying.”

She kissed his cheek, and Fenrir immediately reached for her hand. He got up, still struggling to remember what year it was. “I’ll walk you home.”

“Don’t worry about it, go back to sleep.”

“Are you crazy? I can think of at least five people who would choke me on sight if the day we got together, I let you walk home alone while I slept. Just… gimme a moment.”

Outside of her house they shared one last embrace, and with a sheepish smile, Fenrir kissed her cheek.

“Good night, I’ll see you on Monday.”

“Oh, no, I’d like to see you tomorrow,” Artica whispered, and that’s how it started.

 XXXXXXXXXXXXX

(1) Associated with the god Frey and goddess Freya. Celebration of love, fertility and the coming of Spring.

(2) “Dearest”, in Norwegian.