✶ нιĸarι no мeтaмorpнoѕιѕ

     The question took Klaus off guard, his eyes widening before they ultimately drooped with a sullen expression. He tried to pull his lips taut, but still the corners of his lips curled downward despite his best efforts. “If it were that simple, perhaps…” He mumbled with a mere shake of his head to brush aside Alto’s concern.

     “I know that you are doing your best, and it makes me proud to see how far you have come. However, I still cannot help but find myself worrying for your health at times…” His frown faded for a moment, and an uncertain smile took its place with a fleeting ray of warmth crossing over his eyes. “You fill an integral role within this kingdom, one caught in the fragile balance between rest and responsibility. In that respect I suppose I was… fortunate enough to have methods that gave me a sound escape from seeking out that ideal balance.”

     “What do you mean ‘if it were that simple’...? You can tell me if something’s bothering you, you know.” That’s enough to fill him with some concern. Sure, it’s a little weird for a former--can he call himself a student? A knight? Eh, it’s complicated--knight to be worrying a guy who usually has his act together, but that definitely struck Alto as odd. He did make a promise he would be a friend Klaus could count on after all. It didn’t sound like just a case of insomnia or workaholic tenancies. Not that Alto really knew Klaus’ source beyond the fact his clock had stopped just like Hilda’s.

     He’s quick to divert attention by embarrassing Alto, that’s for sure. He’s weak to soaking in that praise, even if he doesn’t exactly feel like he entirely deserved it. The Conductor scratched at his neck, a sheepish smile crossing over his face.

“A friend, hm? You’re as forthright as ever - but the statement isn’t one-sided.” She mused the words over in her head, wondering how long it had been since anyone had called her such. It had taken her some time to connect  that Alto had indeed built himself as a completely different person. The person she once held feelings for she would not find in his eyes, and truthfully, Hilda no longer felt a need to seek him. Alto’s existence was uniquely his, a special, soft, glowing, existence that burned brightly in its own way, doing in its own way - defending in its own way. Doing its utmost - and Hilda wondered if that light knew it was enough. 

Such a light that gave to others needed to be properly tended to - and perhaps she felt an urge as he did for her, to look after him. To make sure that light did not harm itself in the consistent need to ease the aches and pains of many - even Hilda’s own agony. She had forgotten there was still a sun inside her too, one that had ached for the coming of day after Hilda had drowned it in shadow. 

Ironically, but not surprisingly, people weren’t crowding her so much - if anything they were too frightened of her; for the majority. Like a wolf had entered the peaceful sheep pen of Lambert. They weren’t entirely wrong - Hilda was a vast being, despite being just as they were - a person. Her sins would not go away overnight, and perhaps not even in her lifetime. 

She did question how long such a life would go. Hilda wondered just how much more of her innermost thoughts would present itself to the Conductor at some point . . ? She’d witnessed the power of being one, and it was no small burden - perhaps in her own way she could help him shoulder it. But her pain she often felt unworthy of him acknowledging.

Despite the backed up crowds, she nods solemnly, face set in a pretty little frown. “Yes, I understand. I’d rather not cause too much of a commotion…I’d rather not cause a scene for you Alto.” More than she already had. “Still, you needn’t worry so much about me. It’s touching but, crowds have done far worse.” Trying to ease her frowning mien into a smile, she adjusted herself to the bright sunlight that matched her eyes. 

Hilda would not have Alto shoulder all her presence alone. While he did not do it out of obligation, she always had a strong sense of responsibility, eons worth, and felt that it was best she provide the hot mugs of water. Approaching the counter in line, she ignored how the people distanced themselves as much as possible within the rows of people, until her turn was up.  The familiar face of the shop-keep that held a smile for the Witches she’d reluctantly accompany when they came, often provided a smile directed at them - she was given none. 

It was nothing she wasn’t prepared for or had not seen. Little phased Hilda as they stuttered on their words, the short woman quietly murmuring for two cups of hot water that came far faster than normal alongside their saucers and sugars. She left her change and did not bat a single golden eye when the hand quickly retracted in fear until she had left the counter. 

Regardless, Alto was greeted with a quiet murmur of boots on the wooden floor and a rare, gentle smile that heralded the black-clad Witch’s presence. She offered him the first cup.

“Sorry to keep you waiting. Do you mind green tea? Careful with your hands, it’s hot. I notice you can be a bit clumsy when you’re distracted, sometimes. So rest it on the saucer until it cools, alright? It’s known that unless you’re drinking your tea to rest it there until you sip it again. I think only Sakuya knew that when we had a tea party.” Despite her words, Hilda’s voice was patient and …oddly gentle.

She held up her small satchel, purple and made from a soft fabric, but obviously frayed and worn by time, and two spoons almost magically contrived from her cloak. 

“Here you are. Now let me brew some for you. Feel free to ask me questions. It is a bit of a story, after all. I’d be surprised if you didn’t when I begin.”

     The Conductor can only frown at her words. He didn’t mean it like that... Hilda wasn’t being a bother. If anything, he was more worried about her than himself. Maybe it was a bad trait ( Lisette said it was one of the most worrying things about him; and maybe Hilda agreed ) but there was no way he was going to let some comment ruin their time together. Hilda was strong; Alto didn’t need to protect her. He knew that... and yet here he was, still wanting to.

     He left her words at that as they separated within the cafe itself. Part of Alto was kicking himself for not bringing his copy of Mr. X’s Just Desserts. He didn’t even really remember the section much himself... While he had enthusiastically asked for his Commander ( it still hurt to refer to him like that but.. it was true wasn’t it? ) to sign it, he only paged through it a few times with Popo or if he didn’t feel like reading through Rusty’s “recommended” books he practically tossed on him.

     They could get their actual desserts once the tea situation was squared away. It gave him time to mull over it in the first place. Still, it was a little a weird to think Hilda was the one asking him to visit the places in that book. He almost would have expected her to ask someone like Dante and Dorothy; they were practically her family. Then again, this topic was especially sensitive... and it wasn’t like Alto hadn’t seen her heart and her feelings. 

      Alto was Alto, but in that way it made him wonder if he really was the right person. He was more than glad to help her and talk about it, after all he had said he wanted to be beside her... The knight decided against overthinking it. Hilda asked him and that was what was important. He wanted to be there for her. It wasn’t long until she returned with two cups in her hands and a smile that made Alto’s heart almost stop for a second. Those rare smiles still made him feel speechless, especially with how genuine they looked rather than the faint ones that could melt away the second he looked away. Get it together, Alto!

      “Thanks, and I don’t mind. It’s your favorite, right?” Alto reached out gently, sitting up just a little from his hair to take the cup from her hands. He could feel his fingers gently brush against hers, but he made sure to have a firm grip on the cup before she pulled away. It’s definitely hot, but at least the gloves he’s wearing managed to keep it from burning his skin. He’ll have to be careful about his uncovered fingers though.

      “Is it that noticeable...? I guess I can’t help it. The rest of me just can’t keep up.” Alto glanced down with a sheepish expression. Having her point it out just makes him self conscious, but he knows she means well. He followed her advice and set it on top of said saucer, though he can’t hide the surprise on his face.

      “Really? I would’ve figured Sakuya would know that sorta stuff considering all the Priestess stuff she does. Maybe they just have different rules with their tea ceremonies?” He’s only heard her mention it once while working as her “manager” in an offhand comment towards Nonoka. “She always gets so picky with me too...” He can’t tell her the amount of times he’s been scolded for ordering pink fabric instead of red when there’s barely any difference!

      Either way, he chose to focus on the bag she held up with a curious look. Even though he said he was looking forward to her tea, if he’s really being honest with himself, he can’t really taste the difference between good and less good tea. Lisette is kind ( he uses that loosely ) enough to get on his case about it, but it doesn’t mean it’s not pleasant to drink. He’s really not meant for this discerning stuff... and part of him wonders if Hilda is the same. 

      She’s got a thousand years worth of taste bud testing, maybe that explains her unusual recipe habits...? Wait, he’s doing the exact thing she said earlier!

        Just browsing then? That was less of a hassle, hopefully he wouldn’t be here for too long. Coda nodded once and was ready to stare into space again until the customer spoke again. But what he said piqued Coda’s interest.

      He knew the original owner? Boss always told him it was named after the real Bianca, but that was 300 years ago. During the Second Angel War. This guy had to be pulling his leg, there was no way he knew the real Bianca!

      “….Huh,” Coda answered dumbly, ever so slowly turning his head to stare at the boy. Once he realized he was staring he shook his head rapidly and raised his hands. “I-I mean, uh, that’s cool. I thought the real Bianca passed away, but…like…. Um–!! Yes, we have hunting knives in that corner right there!” He said and pointed off to a far corner on the opposite wall.

      God, someone kill him now. Last thing Coda wanted to deal with was a nutjob but his luck had other ideas. Why couldn’t he spend his last ten minutes doing nothing like he planned…?

      Oh, oops. He probably shouldn’t go around making comments like that. How the heck did Hilda ( or Klaus ) manage to not let so much slip...? Alto scrambled for some kind of excuse, but it at least seemed like the other boy at the counter didn’t care too much about it.

      “Yeah that’d make sense! Because you’re right!” Of course he’s right, Alto! He works here! Please save him from making up some bad excuse... He’s really not good at this. At least the other took his job sort of seriously. Alto’s gaze followed the other’s finger towards the back shelf with a brief nod, “Er, thanks.”

      Considering he’s been on the other end of the part time shtick ( though really the worst one was just working under Kayaj... taking care of a drunk Rusty was hard enough! ) he probably shouldn’t bug him too much. That and Alto didn’t want to open his big stupid mouth and say more that he’s probably some weird time traveling hero from the past. That’d just make things really awkward.

      Actually, he already feels awkward being referred to as a hero anyway. His focus is instead on looking at the selection he asked about. Woah, they really did have a lot... Is that pure wolf skin on the handle? And those sharp edges... this is like a hunter’s dream! Guess Bianca must’ve invested if they were carrying stuff like this.

      “Woah! I’ve never seen a blade tempered like this!” Alto couldn’t take his eyes off it, “This would make skinning so much easier... Why didn’t they think of this stuff before?” Should he really be buying this stuff? Er, wait, do they even have the same coins in the future...?

Some location hcs just bc i like thinking abt worldbuilding a lot

Lambert was originally within a mountainous region purely because its a military strategic point; its harder to infiltrate a city with foot soldiers when mountains play a huge part. This is mostly evident by the fact there’s usually mountains within the background shots of the city itself. Said mountains are part of a range that stretches all the way out towards Amatsu where it connects to Gohra Volcano. Xeno most likely chose this spot because of the former reason, as well as it being harder for monsters to access it ( considering it seems there’s only very few spots where the terrain is pure grassland ). He wanted the city to be protected and given room to grow in a harsh land as a symbol of hope.

Overtime Lambert has become more of a symbol of status as a capital than something producing exports. There are farms scattered within the city walls, but mostly it’s a place where trade happens frequently. Amatsu and Lambert frequently trade with each other.

Because of the uneven terrain, much of Lambert is built on higher pillars and tiered in a way to give more room for expanding within the confines of the mountainous area. The outer walls were build for extra protection in case someone else did sneak through as well as giving scouts a vantage point for seeing danger from afar. They also were to protect the major buildings from possible landslides or avalanches.

Originally, Lambert at its core wasn’t as large of a city ( though as if any city really is just starting out ). The oldest buildings are closer to the core of the castle, which is the oldest building itself. Most of the buildings were huddled closer to the castle, but eventually as the city expanded most places were divided into set districts. The castle itself has the highest vantage point in all of the city. The towers within the castle were built as a symbol of humanity rising above all odds.

Most cities and towns within Regnant follow under Queen Anastasia’s rule. There are a few exceptions to this rule ( Amatsu is the greatest example, as the Priestess is their figurehead while secondary council runs operations behind the scenes. They still follow Queen Anastasia’s laws, but they also govern themselves; Kashmistan was run by a feudal system before it fell ) but for the most part everyone follows the Queen’s word is law. Smaller towns, however, don’t practice the same things Lambert does.

There are three festivals that are the largest in Lambert and all across Regnant. One is the founding of the Holy Regnant Kingdom and another is the Rite of Calmfire ( though this is celebrated in Lambert, its majorly overseen in Amatsu ).

bonus: some Mithra hcs bc i love expanding on it even tho everyone sucks and is mean 2 alto

Its a very small village with only barely a namesake because of its size. The people mainly keep to themselves, but because Regnant is so spread out there’s no real official news system. Knights don’t visit each towns unless need be and most villages hear news through word of mouth once they visit Lambert or another big city. Mithra villagers don’t really trade outside their village unless necessary and its placement in a dense forest isn’t ideal to traders.

Because of this, Mithra knew about Hilda but not all the details of her crystallization magic. Due to this miscommunication, and Mithra’s people’s lack of leaving their village, most didn’t know the explicit details of her magic. Most people believed she would never attack their village because of how small they were compared to the other villages she had ransacked. She was only really mentioned in passing and very rarely, hence why Alto didn’t know her name, but Lisette did.

Considering how devoted followers the people of Mithra are to Elcrest, however, the information with the witches was skewed. Because the royal family covered up the fact the Witches were associated with Elcrest, Mithra mimicked them. However, they did not treat witches as evil beings; merely supernatural creatures with the power of song. Regardless, mot people consider Hilda evil in Mithra.

Mithra holds more festivals in addition to the three main festivals of Regnant. These are mostly for harvesting and just in honor of their general way of life. Popular ones are the summer festival and the festival in honor of the hero, Elcrest.

Alto was a refreshing source of company, albeit, he was far more than that, but Hilda’s ways of being secretive were hard to let go even after ceasing such social isolation . She found herself seeking or awaiting his company when he wasn’t within the often sequestered cloister of the Tuning Knights. For while she admired their strength of heart and potential - she was Hilda. That wouldn’t change. At least in her heart, she couldn’t fathom how quickly people were beginning to tolerate her mere shadow. 

“You seem distracted, Alto.” She remarked bemusedly, more than fine with ignoring the occasional glare that someone sent her way. Her penance was still something she grappled with, and felt it undeserved to be under the bright sun that was Alto and the company’s kindness. A kindness possessed by none other than the Witch of Destruction herself, as well. Though often buried, it strongly pulsed like a heartbeat. 

Making gentle comments here and there she thought might amuse him, the Witch was slightly jarred as Alto stopped; blinking curious golden eyes into his face. “Alto what’s - “

“…There it is.” Softly murmured. The book had always been a source of suspicion to her before finding out the reveal of the one who had manipulated the 9th for the Anthem, but looking at a place he had frequented, her heart ached. What part of Xeno if any had lived, yet, during that time under her nose? Felt that same love of sweets transferred into the warped body that was no longer him? Her dear friend? Briefly did her features furrow in that quiet pain Hilda always seemed to hold when someone wasn’t looking, before her features flit back to his. 

“You remembered my request . . “ It’s soft, something unknown in her voice as she felt her heart prick at Alto’s gesture. 

“Alto - your kindness is truly worrisome, I’m glad I’m around to make sure you don’t harm yourself with it.” Was she teasing or praising? Both? Hilda paused, a small, quiet breath that spoke enough. “…but even so, I’d like to eat something there with you Alto. I don’t need to request tea - I…brought some of my own. “ She held up a small bag that had been attached beneath her cloak. “I’d be glad to come inside with you and tell you…what they mean to me.” 

She…was prepared to share that with him. As Alto saw Hilda for Hilda, so too did she see the kind young man of Mithra, Alto. 

And today? She was going to enjoy and share with him. Just as he would with her. Hilda stepped ahead, opening the door with a confidence that belied her unease at being in public places; an emotion she didn’t think she remembered after millennia. 

“Come inside, Alto. I’ll brew you something delicious with our sweets. I just need to have some of their hot water.”

    His heart hurt to see that look on her face, no matter how brief. He had only gotten to know her so soon after the Eclipse, but it didn’t make her expression hurt any less. Her words just have him shaking his head.

    “Of course I did. What kind of friend would I be if I didn’t?” Alto could only smile gently at her. Really, it would be awful if he didn’t. This was important to her... While Alto only shared the same memories as Elcrest, Xeno was important to both him and Hilda. The three shared a bond of camaraderie especially among the other witches of the past. While Alto didn’t understand, he still understood in his own way. They were important memories; precious ones Alto was sure he didn’t want Hilda to forget. He also didn’t want her to shoulder that grief alone. She had done enough of being alone for a thousand years.

      Even though Alto only knew him as Commander Klaus, he wanted to honor his memory too. For the Commander he so dearly respected and looked up to, despite his betrayal. Still, her teasing leaves him scratching at his cheek with a sheepish smile. 

      “You make it sound like you’re taking advantage of me or something...” He wanted to be kind to her; to show her that kindness she sorely was given for a thousand years of hardship. Kindness was a rarity and rightfully so considering all the things she had done. If Alto was a different person, he might have still hated her for what she did... but that hatred and anger had subsided long ago.

      While the Harbingers were like her family, no one could deny that, it didn’t mean she was without scorn. It would take a long time for Lambert--for Regnant--to heal from the scars she had inflicted on them, but Alto promised to see through that with her.

      At the same time, Hilda held a lot of underlying pain within her. It wasn’t like Alto could come in and sweep away that heartache as much as he wished he could. All he could do was try to smooth her hard edges and try to share her burdens. Either way, he’s getting off track. It’s honestly kind of amusing when she brings out her tea bag out. Hilda definitely was prepared for anything; it’s admirable.

      “I think I should be the one who’s glad you’re sharing with me. Just getting a chance to drink your tea is good enough for me. I’m really looking forward to it!” Either way, he’ll definitely take her on her hospitality. Considering he only was allowed a sneak peak or two of the Witches’ tea parties, Hilda sure had perfected brewing tea down to a science. He openly took the door offered towards him, though he paused briefly in the door frame to turn to her.

      “But... don’t feel bad if you wanna leave too, okay?” Being out in public as the Witch of Destruction never came without someone making a comment or hurling an insult her way. Alto wanted her to be comfortable; especially in a place like this riddled with memories of her lost friend. If she really was going to open her heart, he would rather it be if she were comfortable with it. On that note, it would be bad if they kept standing out here merely gawking. Alto finally made his way inside.

        The cafe itself wasn’t very large, but still Alto could see why Klaus ( or was that Mr. X? Same difference ) might have chosen it. Fortunately the place seemed to mimic the streets with its number of patrons. There were maybe only a few couples sitting around each other, so at least it wasn’t completely empty. Once Hilda entered after him, he glanced back towards her before moving towards one of the many tables near the middle of the dining area. 

      Coda was so excited that Boss was letting him off early today! Something about expecting a fragile delivery and he didn’t want Coda there to screw things up, but that was just fine with him! Sure he would have to go home to his parents but he could hide upstairs and take a nap instead of listen to them. 

      So admittedly he was in a bit of a daze when the usual flow of customers ceased altogether. One elbow on the counter to prop his head up Coda was staring off into space when the door chimed. He half expected Boss but instead it was someone about his age.

      Ah, hell, now he had to talk and act like he cared. Ten minutes before his shift ended! Just his luck.

      “Yes, welcome! What can I do for you today?”

       Despite sharing the same name as Bianca’s store, it definitely was different. When he saw the name his heart practically leaped in his chest. Was this what it should’ve been like if he woke up as Elcrest, remembering all these things from mere titles alone? Nah, no use in dwelling on that. He’s just getting worked up over nothing. He hadn’t even realized the person at the counter spoke to him.

       Wait, how old was this kid? Did Bianca really hire kids this young? Er-- wait Bianca probably wasn’t around either... and then again she could be just as greedy as Ewan anyway.

       “Oh, uh, sorry... I wasn’t really looking for anything specific.” Alto confessed, scratching behind his head, “I just knew a friend who, uh, started this shop so it brought back some memories that’s all...” But... If he’s here...

      Popo, Lisette, and Mordimort? So then Alto knew about the second angel war! … Wait, what? Back up a moment. Tomoko just had to explain, albeit terribly, the details of the second war. Alto didn’t know anything about that. Why did he remember the names of the past witches? This whole thing was fishy no matter how one looked at it. Tomoko should’ve been extremely wary considering the circumstances. She was alone in the woods with someone who didn’t know any current facts (sort of?) that could easily over power her even without a sword. 

      Despite the oddity of it all, Tomoko was mainly puzzled by the absurdity than worried for her safety. There was something about Alto, his reactions felt genuine. Tomoko knew when people were being fake around her, when all they wanted was the priestess’s affection and attention. Alto was different from that. Perhaps there was more to this situation than she knew. One thing was for certain: she wanted to help.

      Tomoko shrugged a shoulder. “Well, think about it like this. Y’don’t really remember most of the details surrounding the angel war. Whatcha gonna do when you walk into town and don’t recognize anythin’ or know where you’re goin’? Someone asks you a question and you can’t answer it.” She then smiled, offering Alto’s sword back at him with the hilt extended. “I don’t think you’d be jeopardizing my safety. You’ve already proven you’re capable of defending yourself. I do a lotta moving around but if you stick with us for a little while we can help you understand the situation better.”

      Her smile disappeared when Alto asked for more information on Callia. Tomoko wasn’t frowning though. Rather she looked embarrassed and rubbed the back of her neck, shifting around in place. If Alto really stared he would be able to see a tinge of a blush. “E-Err… Yeah, I know Callia. Well, everyone knows Callia. But- Like– uhm..”

      “She’s the Time Witch an’ Hildegaria’s Queen so I guess I jus’… figured with all this history stuff it’d apply to her. But, uh, point is she’s been doin’ a lotta bad things lately. Kinda worried about her… Though I kinda have a feelin’ if you really wanted t’see her I… could arrange that… She an’ I are on good enough terms that we could walk up t’Fahrenheit and see her, no questions asked. She’d probably be a lot more useful than me…”

       Cough. Tomoko straightened up and rubbed her nose with her long white sleeve. Moving on from her technically-enemy-yet-still-friend, they had bigger things to worry about. Like Alto and this strange memory business. It was sweet that he didn’t want to involve her but Tomoko figured there was no going back now. She would feel awful leaving him without any answers. Admittedly she didn’t know how to approach this situation if Alto didn’t know anything about this. It wasn’t everyday she ran into someone with a this problem. Tomoko wasn’t sure she entirely understood what he meant by not knowing anything versus can’t remembering. Yet he knew the past witches names.

      Pursing her lips, Tomoko rested her cheek in one hand as she thought this over. She hated to say it but… Maybe seeing Callia would be a good idea. Off the top of her head, if there was anyone who could tell her about time shenanigans it was the Time Witch. Heck, Callia even played with time and warped into the shrine to check on her before. Even a simple clue might be able to help. If not Callia, her next guess would be to check with the other witches. Them or the knight squad. Alto looked like a knight, they might be able to help him.

      Tomoko picked her head up and nodded while pounding her fist into her palm. “Alright, I’ve decided. I’m gonna help you whether you like it or not, Alto! I’ve got nothin’ better t’do and I can’t jus’ leave you alone in the woods! I'mma shitty priestess, but I’m not shitty enough to turn down someone who needs help.”

      “I’ll help you get to the bottom of this, Alto. I promise.”

      Well that was.... Okay. She had a point. If this really was the future, things would be a lot different than they were in the past. Alto frowned as she handed his sword back towards him. Reluctantly, he took it back staring at the sheathe for a moment in thought. It really was nice of her to lend her support, even if all Alto did was help her out of a scrape. He didn’t really understand her situation, but it must be important if she was all the way out here. 

      Either way, there was a lot at work here neither of them understood. Sticking together never was a bad idea. But wait... What was that reaction? She really must know about Callia if she’s making that sort of expression. At the same time, Alto felt his heart clench in his chest. Time witch... so she was Hilda’s successor then? 

      His heart hurt. Just thinking about her made his chest ache. Was she okay back home? Technically he had broken his promise... Alto didn’t exactly know the mechanics of something like time travel, but all he could really hope for is she was safe wherever she was. He would hold onto that thought instead of dwelling on the inevitable for now. Instead, Alto forced himself to focus on Tomoko’s words instead.

      “I guess that makes sense... I don’t actually know a whole lot about time witch stuff myself.” Alto cupped his chin in thought. Hilda usually would tease him about asking stuff like ‘Alto don’t you know its rude to ask a girl something like that?’ so... it wasn’t like he really wanted to pry into her business. The “bad things” though did have Alto giving her a concerned look. Was it just in normal with time witches and causing problems...? Alto guessed he never would really know.

      “If it’s not to much trouble, if she knows anything it’d be a really big help... but hey, don’t say that! You’ve been a big help already!” Even if it was minor, just having some information made him feel less lost. That was worth it enough to Alto. Either way, he guessed it was a start. Better than wandering aimlessly in the woods with wolves hanging around. He finally took his sword and wrapped it back securely around his waist.

       Her words surprised him a little, especially after he insisted she didn’t have to involve herself. Really, he couldn’t help but smile. It was reassuring at least to know someone was willing to help him out. It made him miss Lisette, miss his home where all his friends were but... if Tomoko was the one he met way out here, he was glad it was her. Even if she was sort of self-depreciating her role.

      “Alto… That is no outlook to have on the measures necessary to benefit your productivity.” Klaus released a sigh and shook his head, his disappointment worn plain on his face. Even with the weight of such an important role hanging over Alto it seemed that some things never changed. “Though I suppose I have little need for it now through these listless days… Perhaps working another brief rest into my schedule may ease some of the stress on my body? Hm…” 

      He let the thought linger in his mind before he ultimately brushed it aside and returned his attention to his friend. “Whether or not you can handle my schedule is of no consequence. What matters is what you do to optimize your sleeping habits in order to best benefit both your health and your work.”

      Is he being... scolded? For wanting to nap? Isn’t that a bit of a stretch...? 10 minutes is way too short! Anyone can see that! Well, except Klaus but it’s still way too hard to believe. Then again this is coming from the guy who was asleep for a thousand years anyway.

      “Brief? Don’t you think you should take longer rests now that you’re not doing anything?” Alto can’t help, but frown at that. Even if he says that, it’s not like Alto is even on the same sleep schedule he used to be back in Mithra!

     Part of him is glad it’s not too crowded of a day out on Lambert’s Main Street. Taking walks with Hilda was always nice ( in fact he more than enjoyed it; she always had something interesting to comment on ) but it was better when there wasn’t noise of a crowd accompanying them. Alto really hadn’t realized how much he needed a break until he was out here with her. While they hadn’t had a particular place in mind on this trip, Alto couldn’t help but let his gaze wander the street a bit.

     There was a particular sign that caught his attention though. Someone must’ve left it out on the sidewalk... but while the sign itself wasn’t really anything special the name of the place caught his attention. He swore he had seen it before... Oh! That had him stopping in his tracks.

     “Hey, I remember this place! I think it was mentioned in Mr. X’s Just Desserts.” Alto turned his head back towards the witch. If it was really mentioned in Klaus’ book, then she probably would want to stop here... especially considering she asked Alto to accompany her. Not that he was a huge fan of sweets himself, nothing compared to Lisette, but... Well, he wanted to support her no matter what. Besides, he also wanted to honor Xeno.

      “Of course. I would have no reason to fabricate a claim such as that, I can assure you. It is hard work acting as Grand Master, as I’m sure you understand.” No, he’s not going to get into any details. Why get into such a sticky topic when he could avoid and divert attention elsewhere? “How much sleep have you gotten since taking the role?”

      “Wow... You really were serious... I thought that was some exaggeration. That’s pretty sad.” Not that he’s super surprised, mind you but... hearing it from the horse’s mouth so to speak isn’t exactly a welcome thought. Where would he be without a nap? Actually, that’s sort of where he is now. Just sad... and napless.

        Everything went from weird to even weirder. Tomoko thought it odd that Alto didn’t know about Lady Mikuru but now he was talking as if he knew Lady Sakuya. Which was impossible, she was the Priestess ages ago. Nobody was even alive from the second angel war anymore. Unless Alto was secretly much older than he looked. But what were the odds of that?

      Still, Tomoko regarded him quizzically as he spoke, forgetting about her spite towards the dead Priestess. Nonoka? Who the heck was that? Manager? Just a dream? Tomoko was suddenly very aware that she was all alone with someone who didn’t know basic facts and acted like he knew Lady Sakuya. That…. just screamed crazy. But even so, he helped her. Tomoko didn’t want to drop his sword and run. Perhaps it wasn’t as bad as she thought. Maybe he hit his head and got amnesia or something along those lines. Once again, however, what were the odds of that?

      Her tone softened and she looked at him with concern. “The second angel war was.. Oh,” Tomoko sighed, biting her lip in thought. “I don’t really know, probably…” She tipped her head to the side and back, shrugging one shoulder. “Like over a hundred years ago? Maybe two hundred? M’not too sure, everyone at the shrine always talked about Sakuya like she was the best thing since orb technology. I think the rest of the witches were like….” Tomoko racked her brain, trying to remember how to rest of the legend went. “There was Lady Sakuya, um… Pop? Lise? Oh, Hilda, I know her ‘cause of Hildegaria. Then there was the earth witch, uh– Moldi?” Then Tomoko straightened up and gasped quietly. “Oh, oh, an’ there was another guy! He led them into battle! I can’t tell you his name, but if I find Yuichi he can probably tell you. He’s better at remembering details than I am.”

        Aside from the legend and her terrible memory… What to do about Alto? If he wasn’t feeling good he could hang out with her and Yuichi until he was better. Or at least until his memory jogged a bit. Tomoko would feel guilty leaving him on his own (despite Alto being more than capable of taking care of himself since he fought off wolves).

      “Hey, Alto, if you’re not feelin’ alright, do you wanna stay with Yuichi and I for a bit? He might not like it, but I can persuade him. He’s a total pushover if I ask him to do things. I’d feel bad leaving you on your own if you can’t remember stuff. Wouldn’t want you to get mixed up in anything. If you go around tellin’ people you say you knew Lady Sakuya, Callia might start looking for you or something.” She just brought trouble wherever she went. Tomoko would hate to see Alto mixed up in whatever Callia was doing.

    The way she talked all sounded completely impossible... but Alto had seen the impossible with his own two eyes. Hell, he lived through the impossible. Becoming someone entirely new from the past, defeating and “tuning” God, awakening to a power beyond him after 1000 years... why was this the one thing that was so hard to believe? Maybe it was the fact it was different from his awakening with Elcrest. 

     Everything had been so normal up until the point he met Tomoko. It wasn’t her fault for any of this... but at the same time Alto wasn’t sure how he could wrap his brain around it all. Instead of dwelling on it too much, Alto decided to do what was within his own power. That was merely to just listen to Tomoko’s explanation and piece together this already confusing mess. 

     While her memory on the “second angel war” subject didn’t help much, it did give him a relative idea. That was, at least, until he heard the time stamp she gave. 

    His blood ran cold at that. Two hundred years? His mind swam at that. He couldn’t mask the sheer look of terror that crossed over his face. Did that mean everyone was... everyone... He felt his chest well up in that moment of despair, but he forced it down into the pit his stomach had become. Tomoko did at least explain why the name ”Alto” wasn’t familiar to her; she just didn’t remember it. 

    Not that him saying his name would change anything... she probably would just think he was named after him and not that said “Hero” himself.

   “Popo.... Lisette... Mordimort... That’s their names.” Alto found himself idly correcting her on that, though his words felt hollow. They were all gone, weren’t they? Not just them but even Hilda too. Everyone he knew from his era was completely erased, only mere stories by this point. This really had to be some bad dream he just couldn’t wake up from. His legs felt like jelly, but he refused to fall to them.

    There had to be something he could do! Some reason for being placed in this future... maybe Doctor Veronica was still alive? Or Marie...? There had to be once person from the past still here, right? That was what Alto was going to tell himself. At least, until he plucked some answers for himself. Tomoko’s next words, however, caught him off guard. While it was true he saved her, he was surprised she didn’t mind him tagging along if she was running away from something.

    “Are you sure...? Weren’t you on the run in the first place? I wouldn’t want to jeopardize your safety either.” Alto couldn’t help, but ask that. While it would be nice to travel with someone who had a semblance of an idea of what the hell was going on, he didn’t want to put her at risk either. Something else tickled at the back of his thoughts too. Would Tomoko even really believe him if he came out and said he was from the past itself? Well, she already probably thought he was crazy. Lying to her about that wouldn’t help things either.