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dawnblazers · 4 months

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Artemis Thorn

Final Fantasy XVI OC

Arc I: Child with a Gift

Artemis was born into a harsh world. It would hate him due to his talents to wield magic, born a bearer; his mother felt disgusted and sold him shortly after birth to a slave trader. The man was portly in size, round in face, and had a greying beard. Artemis couldn’t remember much about this time, just the grey-bearded large man who was in charge of all the bearers. The young child couldn’t understand what he was at the time, growing into a boy with beautiful fair skin and stunning orange-red hair. It was thick and somewhat curly. The slave trader would know in time he would fetch a high price for the small child given to the right aristocrat, yet he had to stay his hand and be gentle, after all, Roseria treated their bearers well, far better than other places in Valisthea.

Upon Atremis’s sixth birthday; he had attracted the attention of a wealthy noble, a well-known doctor in the region known as Doctor Lucian, Benjamin Lucian, an esteemed noble favored by the archduchy for generations and this lord was no different from the current Archduke, Elwin Rosefield. This doctor was tall and slim in build with tired eyes and dark circles under them; they outlined his green irises well enough but Artemis could guess this man was overworked. The little redheaded bearer now branded caught this doctor’s eye. His red hair stood out as a strange color among the other children at the trader’s home, and clients took note of it but declined to purchase it. This could be that Artemis was a small child. While the others were so much taller and stronger than he was; he was dainty and wouldn’t be suitable for hard labor. The child wondered if he would grow more or stay tiny forever; he dared hoped he would be big and strong someday.

The doctor bought him; almost without hesitation or caring for the price. Artemis was shocked upon finding out he had been bought and barely had time to process it before being led to the carriage stationed outside with massive chocobos. These birds were so large and majestic, that Artemis almost fell back upon looking up from his small form. They looked fit and healthy and the most beautiful horsebirds he had ever seen, so much so that he gripped the end of his faded shirt tightly in his little hands.

The doctor must have noticed and given the red-headed child a gentle pet on the head before urging him into the carriage. Artemis was quiet and he kept his legs closed to his chest as he sat there staring at his new master. He still didn’t fully understand what was going on, where he was being taken but it had to be better than the trader’s house. So used to sleeping on the floor with the other children, freezing against the wooden floors during winter with barely a hole-filled blanket to keep him warm. What sort of person was the doctor, he wondered, would he be a kind master or a mean one? He heard stories of mean masters treating their bearers poorly. It made him afraid and so he gripped his legs tighter and gave a soft whine.

“Are you hungry?” spoke the doctor. His voice was polite but held a softness to it. The man reached into his pouch and pulled out some dried meat. “Here, eat this. It’s still a few days until we reach my home in Rosalith. Do you know where that is?” the noble asked. Artemis took the piece of dried meat and sniffed it lightly before biting into it. The young child didn’t realize how long he hadn’t eaten and the quality was good. It was then he finally decided to answer the nobleman.

“I never left the house before or the yard, my lord,” Artemis spoke meekly. He just finished swallowing the dried meat, his stomach now content and without the pain of hunger gnawing at the back of his mind. He felt at ease now; this man was kind. There were stories he overheard from the older bearers and from the slave trader of bearers being mistreated or down right killed, even in Roseria where they were supposed to be treated kindly. The boy couldn’t understand it. Why would anyone want to mistreat anyone else?

“I am Benjamin Lucian. Lord of House Lucian and a doctor in Rosalith.” the older man introduced. “I bought you because my only child, Frederick Lucian, needs a playmate and well, friend. He is a rather shy boy and sickly.” the noble explained. “So I bought you to keep him company as work has kept me away.”

Artemis blinked. “Oh ok. I’ll do my best, Master Lucian.”

There was a gentle smile from the doctor. “You have manners. That is good. You must be aware of your lot in life.”

“Kind of. I’m a bearer and that is bad.” Artemis kicked his legs out boredly. His big green eyes were looking all around the carriage and outside. This was all too new for the young boy with vibrant red hair. This was all new and he felt both afraid and excited. “I can use magic too, Master!” he pipped up.

“Ah. I did not buy you for your magic, my child. Please, refrain from using it otherwise the curse will spread on your body.” Benjamin spoke. “You’ll become very sickly and we can’t have that.” The tone was that of a kind old teacher.

“Oh. Well….” he lifted his hands to show no marking of the curse. “I don’t turn all hard when I use it!” he spoke with a light smile, wishing to be useful to this man. He held his hand gently and a small spark of blue flame appeared, no more bigger than a candle flicker. “It gets very cold at night and so sometimes I would hold my little fire to keep warm but the trader never figure it out.”

The noble’s eyes widen slightly as he observed the child’s hands and arms for any sign of turning to stone but there was no evidence. “I see.” he finally said. “Go on and put it out. It’s not safe to have fire inside the carriage.” he urged. The man’s mind was racing. There was a child able to use magic without consequence of the curse? It was unheard of.

Artemis blinked and put his fire out and sat there quietly, wondering if he upset Master Lucian. There was silence for a long while before the doctor placed his hand ontop of the mess of thick red hair. “Worry not, little one. Do not worry about using your power unless told too.” A smile returned to the doctor’s face as the carriage bumped and continued down the road towards Rosalith

Arc II: Adolescence of Bloodshed

Life in Rosalith was a peaceful one. Artemis grew attached to the Master of the Lucian house and thought of the man like a parent and the Lady of the house, Charlotte Lucian, was a gentle woman who tended to dote on her son and on Artemis. Frederick Lucian was indeed a shy young boy with frail health. Lady Charlotte wouldn’t allow Frederick outside that often and thus the Master of the house bought home a little bearer boy. Artemis was skittish at first, not used to such a large estate or pretty things that nobles owned.

When he met Frederick it was almost like love at first sight. The boy’s smile was infectious, kind, and calming despite him being sickly. Despite the redhead being a bearer; Frederick still reached out and took his hand. They would play together and during the young lord’s studies, Artemis would sit and listen quietly, taking in all he could and learning all he could. The years passed by and Artemis was happy. He was treated well despite some guests casting their scorn on him; he was fed and had a small room beside Fredrick’s to sleep in, although he would sneak into the lordling’s room when he heard him fuss.

At the age of nine; Doctor Lucian grew curious as the curse had not taken the bearer’s body. There wasn’t an ounce of stone upon the boy. So the doctor began to draw blood from Artemis.

“I know it’s painful, Artemis.” Doctor Lucian spoke. “If my theory is correct then your blood is the reason you can use your magic without consequence. If I can find a method to use your blood, perhaps this will aid others like you.”

Artemis whined lightly as he felt the piercing need enter his arm. “I-I know Master Lucian! I’ll be brave!” despite the tears forming in the corners of his eyes.

“You are a kind child. I’ll give you some extra desserts and I won’t draw blood tomorrow but I’ll be taking you to the palace to meet some friends of mine.” The doctor spoke as he drew the blood. “Good boy for holding still.”

Artemis perked up as the needle was removed and a bandage wrapped around his wrist and arm. “Will Fredrick be coming with us too?” he wondered out loud.

“Of course. My friend has two songs and you’ll get along. Just be very polite but also, Charlotte will be using some of her makeup to hide your mark. Just pretend to be my adoptive son. Can you do that?”

The red head reached up and touched his mark. It seemed like a faded memory but he remembered being held down, and needles being injected into his cheek. It hurt and he cried and cried but no one hugged him or cared. “Yes. I” ll be a very good son to you, Master Lucian.” There was a growing feeling of worry forming deep in the young boy.

“You can address me as father, you know. You might as well be my son at this point.” the doctor replied. “Come on, now. Say “Yes father!” and smile wide like you always do.”

Artemis wiped the small tears from his eyes and sniffled once before smiling and nodded. “Yes, father!”

“That’s the spirit. Now go play with Fredrick until supper. The boy slid off the stool and hurried out of the study not taking notice of the few vials of blood upon the desk.

—

The ride to the palace was exciting. Artemis was dressed in proper attire, not that his normal clothes were low quality by any means. The child looked the part of nobleman’s son and he held tightly onto Fredrick’s arm. The young noble boy held just as tightly onto the red head whose’s hair was tamed, slicked back into a french braid thanks to Lady Charlotte and bearer mark well hidden with make up, also thanks to Lady Charlotte.

“Now, boys, Calm down. This is the palace, mind your manners and be on your best behavior.” the fair lady with beautiful brown hair, tied with ribbons and hair decorations. The boys gave a giggle and nodded. “Yes mother!” they repeated as the carriage pulled up to the palace’s front gates. There were guards waiting and allowed them to enter.

Frederick held his mother’s hand while Artemis held the doctor’s as they were led towards the palace doors. The red headed boy saw so many things, the guards training with swords and lances. The way they moved enthralled the young bearer that he fell a bit behind. Frederick tugged his hand.

“Come on, Artemis. We can watch the sparring matches later!” Frederick urged.

“R-Right!” Artemis replied and hurried to catch up. He held onto Fredrick’s arm and continued to walk. They walked through the gardens and up the palace steps and through the doors. They soon were brought to a large sitting room where tea and snacks were laid out at the table. A man dressed in crimson sat waiting. He had black hair and a kind smile.

“Ah. Right on time, Benjamin.” spoke Elwin. “It’s been a long time.”

“Forgive me, my Grace.” Doctor Lucian replied and bowed.

“Alrighty, enough with the formalities. We have much to discuss.” Elwin chuckled.

“Of course. These are my boys, Frederick and Artemis. “ the doctor introduced. Frederick bowed and Artemis did his best to mimic the other boy’s movements.

“What fine boys they are.” Elwin eyed the redhead. “Is this the boy you wrote about??”

“Yes. I bought him four years ago from a trader in the south. The man didn’t take notice that the curse didn’t affect this child. I would like…” The doctor paused. “Charlotte, why not take the boys a walk through the gardens? I’m sure they are eager to explore.”

Elwin chuckled. “Have my boy take them. Will you do that, Clive?”

Artemis was shocked that there was another boy in the room, who had gone unnoticed, who stood by politely and quietly.

“Yes, father,” Clive replied. Artemis wondered if they were the same age. The redhead took hold of Fredrick’s hand and followed the other boy out of the room.

The doctor let out a sigh and sat down. “I wish for funding to research how that boy’s blood can be used to aid the bearers.”

“Most people will find it pointless,” Elwin spoke. “I do not. I find it incredible to have a child not affected. If word got out, I fear that boy’s life will be nothing but a living hell. He’ll either be killed or used as a weapon.”

“I won’t jeopardize that child’s life. At first, I only bought him as a companion for my son but he’s like my own now too. Charlotte loves doting on him and you know she no longer could bear any more children. It felt like I was supposed to find Artemis and adopt him.”

“Aye.” Elwin smiled lightly. “You’ll have your funding.”

“Ah, one more thing.” The doctor spoke. “I’ve brought a stock of medicine I created. I hope it helps with little Joshua’s coughing.

“By the flame, Benjamin. You are an honest and good man.” the duke replied.

“I just think there is enough cruelty in this world. I want to make it a little better and if I can help, I shall, my grace.”

—

Frederick ran through the garden chasing a butterfly while Lady Charlotte looked on with worry. “ Frederick, slow down, my love, you’ll run out of energy!” Ever the doting mother. She watched as her son obeyed and took a break. Artemis hurried over and helped Fredrick sit down to catch his breath.

“You’ll faint, Frederick. You know this.” Artemis scolded.

“I-I know.” Frederick coughed a little. “I just couldn’t help it.”

Clive knelt down. “Are you alright, Sir Fredrick?”

“Sir?” Frederick coughed through a laugh. “Fredrick is fine and yes, I’m alright. I get tired easily.”

“Oh. I see. You’ll like my baby brother. He is frail in health.”

“Yes. I heard my father telling mother he was making a big batch of medicine for the Pheonix!” Artemis butted in excitedly. “Father makes all sorts of medicines for sick children!” he helped Fredrick up. The three children played in the garden, playing pretend sword fights until the sunset and it was time for the Doctor and his family to return to their manor.

Six years passed by quietly. Artemis expressed interest in learning combat and becoming a guard of the manor, specifically being Fredrick’s guard and closest companion. Throughout those six years, Artemis learned out to wield a spear. There would be skirmishes and sparring at the palace where he was taught by various Shields. Artemis was proficient with a lance and it suited his fighting style.

Artemis would offer his blood in secret to his adoptive father when requested. He was more than happy to do this as he grew, he saw what happened to bearers with the curse. There was a breakthrough of research and Doctor Lucian made medicine to give to the bearers that forstalled the effects of the curse for a long span of time. It gave more time with loved ones and while Benjamin never gave out his secrets on how it was made, many bearers lives were extended and improved. The doctor accepted no payment in return.

The peaceful life, however, wouldn’t remain. As the events of Pheonix’s gate occur, a secret task force was dispatched from Sanbreque. They invaded the Doctor’s manor and killed him and Lady Charlotte. They slaughtered the staff and bearers, destroyed all the research and sought out the two boys. Frederick was awake and heard the noise.

“Artemis.” the young man spoke. His face pale and eyes filled with sadness.

Artemis grew into a fine young man and he grasped Fredrick’s wrist tightly as they ran out of the estate. The manor was on fire, his beautiful spear, a gift from Fredrick, laced with a sharp blade and decorated with engravings of roses; held tight in his free hand.

“We have to keep going!” Artemis replied. “I’ll carry you!”

Fredrick slowly stood there. The young man had grown sicker and sicker and stood weak, blood dripping from his nose and mouth. “I can’t go on. You have to escape, please. You have to stay alive, you can help the bearers.”

“Fredrick, no!”

“Go on! They’ll be here soon! Go!” the weakened adolescent pushed his companion away. “Go! Go and don’t look back!” Frederick fell to the ground and the red-headed young man caught him. “G…o..I’m dying anyway.”

“No, no, no!” Artemis cried and he noticed his friend’s chest stopped moving and the light of his eyes. The heart must have given out. There was no time to mourn, he had to run and to survive. It would be what his family wanted and so he broke away from Fredrick’s body and ran deep into the wilds, heading toward Eastpool. A memory flashed of his adoptive father saying, if he is in trouble, seek out Sir Murdoch and Hanna Murdoch in Eastpool.

Upon arriving in the dead of night, Artemis learned about the events that transpired at Pheonix’s Gate.

Arc III: Betrayal Within the Holy Orders of Knights Dragoon

Despair riddled the young bearer when he arrived at Lady Hanna’s home only to find out that the Archduke Elwin had been slain, a large fire broke out and the Rosefield sons were missing. Artemis spoke how the estate was attacked, his adoptive family slaughtered and how Fredrick passed in his arms due to his heart failing. It was a harsh reality but deep down he knew Fredrick would pass early in life. Due to his fragile emotional state, he speaks of his blood being valuble and tells Lady Hanna that he needed to vanish, to disappear and survive like Fredrick wanted.

Lady Hanna aided him, knowing he wouldn’t change his mind, by gifting him some clean clothing, simple clothing with a thick hood. She also suggested to keep his face covered as he was a bearer, a rare one, but one none the less, and would be sought after and enslaved if caught. Artemis understood and donned the new clothing and decided to wrap his face with bandages and covered his jaw and nose with a scarf for extra measure. Only his vibrant green eyes would be seen. The long messy red hair was pulled back into a low braid.

Artemis knew Hannah wanted him to stay but he couldn’t. He had to live, to get stronger and survive. So, he left a day or two after arriving, not wanting to have Lady Hannah be in danger, just in case those who killed his family were still out there.

—

Years passed and Artemis traveled alone. He was attacked but fought each attacker fiercely. When the man was in his twenty-fourth year; his skills impressed a squad of Dragoons returning home from a mission. They were attacked by a large group of beasts and most were recovering from injuries from their mission. Artemis, draped in his cloak and bandages aided them, saving them from the beast. The squad captain Erik, insisted that he return with them to at least get a reward for his bravery.

Artemis hesitated; now withdrawn and wary of large cities and unknown peoples; reluctantly accepted. He was brought to one of the many dragoon camps where the leader of the camp tested him. It was found he was skilled enough with his old lance to be a dragoon and begin training. Artemis found this opportunity to be a good one but lied about his bandages.

“Pardon? You move like that with chronic pain from your scars?” asked Hans, the leader of the Dragoon camp.

“Yes. I have a high pain tolerance but the armor would hinder me and cause great discomfort. I can move quickly, sir but without the armor.”

“You say you were burned in a horrid accident?” Hans asked as he put down his paperwork. “You are quite skilled but to think you can wield a lance while suffering from burn scars. It makes sense why you wear the bandages.”

“These clothes were made with that in mind, they are light. I can wear leather armor but the heavy steel armor dragoons wear, beautiful in design, would slow me down and make me useless.”

Hans rubbed the back of his short dirty blonde hair. “Alright. I’ll see what I can do. It is against the dress code but given your situation; our superiors should be fine with it. Wear your leather armor for now and make sure to keep your face covered; it would be bad for morale if anyone saw your scars…er, no offense.”

“Thank you, sir.” Artemis bowed and left the tent. It was only day three of being enlisted as a Dragoon. It was a rowdy bunch; Artemis thought and it was best to keep to himself. The outgoing personality he had as a child was gone and replaced with reserved caution. Artemis was dressed head to toe in clothes and only his eyes were exposed. The lie of being horribly burned seems acceptable enough and most never questioned it. It would be impolite to do so.

“ARRTEEMISSS!!!!” came a youthful voice. The hidden bearer turned only to be embraced by a young lad, no more than fifteen. “Oh! I” 'm sorry!” the young man let go. He was a tall dragoon with messy brown hair and freckles. This was Kier, son of a humble lord and Artemis’s very first friend.

“You are being loud, Kier.” Artemis replied as he adjusted his hood.

“I know but I’m so excited. Did you hear about Prince Dion, Bahamut, is going to watch our skirmish next week! Isn’t this exciting, such a busy person coming to see how our training is going! Prince Dion is truly a kind royal. Do you know anything about him?”

“Afraid not. I’m not from Sanbreque. I heard the bards play of Bahamut, though.” the cloaked bearer spoke.

“I forgot about that! You are in for a spectacle. I only saw him as Bahamut once and it was amazing! Do you think he would transform?”

“I don’t think so. No need to transform just for us. Isn’t being a dominant a strain on the body?”

Kier blinked and laughed. “You are really something else, Arty, you’ve been told about a dominant being here and transforming and your first reaction is to be worried for their health? I bet you are super nice to bearers too, huh?”

“I try to be nice to everyone. It’s a cruel world after all.” Artemis replied, remember his father’s words to him.

“Aw, you are so serious! You should lighten up a little! Transforming for five minutes wouldn’t hurt him! Plus it would boost moral, wouldn’t it?” Kier asked.

This kid knew nothing of the world. Artemis sighed. “Come on, Kier. It’s almost supper time. I’ll walk you to the mess hall.”

“You are pretty amazing too, Arty!” Kier followed behind. “I overheard how you stopped a horde of large coerls from eating our dragoon soldiers! You really are the hero type, aren’t you? Like in those fairy tales and bard stories.”

“I’m not a hero, Kier. I just couldn’t stand by and watch someone die. “ Not again, never again. The image of Fredrick popped into the bearer’s mind, how would he look as an adult if he got to live? He would be the spitting image of his father, with fair features from Lady Charlotte. The memories caused Artemis’s chest to ache and he grasped it tightly.

“Are you ok, Arty? Is it your scars?” Kier asked.

“Aye. I’ll be fine. It’s already fading.”

The two arrived into the mess hall to find it filled with soldiers, chatting and drinking. The energy was high as the day of the skirmish approached and Lord Dion would arrive. Artemis didn’t see the big deal. This war prince was just like them, a man trying to do what was right, and he couldn’t see the fault in that. He knew of the bard’s tales about Prince Dion and his personable personality. It’s why many joined the Holy Order over the normal military.

If things were different; if the incident at Pheonix Gate never happened, would he be a shield for the Pheonix? Would he fight and protect Roseria? Would he serve under Clive’s command? Those poor sons, those boys were kind to him despite not knowing he was a bearer. Yet, they treated bearers nicely, or at least that's what Aretmis could tell when he visited the palace when his father delivered medicine.

His thoughts were interrupted by a plate being set in front of him. It was bread only. Kier must of went and got them something to eat.

“Here, you can have bread right?” Kier asked.

“Yes, but I eat in my tent. I have to remove the bandages and that isn’t a pretty sight. I don’t want anyone to lose their meal if they see my face.”

Kier gave a sympathetic look. “I’m sure it’s not that bad.” he sat down across from Artemis. “Is that why you don’t wear heavy armor? Your scars?”

“Yes. The pain would hinder me but if I’m free to move in my leather armor, then I can fight to my fullest with only a little amount of pain.” He lied. He hated this lie, but it must be told to survive. For years, he hid himself to keep his freedom. Bearers weren’t allowed to join any sort of military and he hadn’t used his powers for a long time, to the point he almost forgot he had them. Artemis felt himself a coward but he just wanted to live like Fredrick wished.

“ I really admire your spirit,” Kier said as he stuffed some bread into his mouth. “You don’t seem bitter at all even though fate kinda dealt you with a shitty hand.”

“I just keep walking forward. My legs still work after all.”

“You are so cool, Arty! The bards would be singing about you in no time!”

“Calm down, Kier or you’ll choke.” Artemis warned before getting up and grabbing his plate. “I’m going to grab some more food and turn in for the evening.”

Kier nodded and waved. The cloaked bearer gather some things and walked to his tent. He passed a large man in his thirthes with dark hard and beard. He reeked of booze and had a rather harsh and repulsive personality.

“What do we have here?” his deep grunty voice asked. “It’s the bandage freak and Erik’s little pet.”

“Conrad. What do I owe this visit? I’m about to have my meal.” Artemis asked.

“Always with that smug tone. Just because everyone else sees you as a savior doesn’t mean I do! You are not even from Sanbreque! So why even bother joining the Dragoons?” the large man asked bluntly.

“I have my own reasons.”

“I bet you are some sort of spy or something! Better watch yourself or maybe you’ll be beheaded like that Archduke bastard years back! Those dogs from Roseria had it comin’ if I say!” He laughed loudly and it took all of Artemis’s willpower not to shove some bread in that fat mouth of his.

“Think what you want. It’s not true. You should focus on the skirmish and not being a disgrace to Lord Dion.” the cloaked man spoke as he moved around Conrad.

“Yeah, like I’m the disgraceful one! Not some little burned bitch from elsewhere! We’ll see who is better! You better watch your back, little burned bitch!”

Artemis elected to ignore him, especially when he saw Erik walking up and scolding the large man for shouting and being obscene. How that man was a noble, he did not know. Some nobles grew arrogant and fat in the head and Conrad was a prime example of overindulgence. The redhead felt happy to know his father wasn’t like that or the late Archduke. They were sensible people, people who wanted to help others, and yet this cruel world betrayed them.

The hooded man entered his tent to find a woman tending to his bed and changing the sheets. She was a pale and small thing like he was and a bearer. She squeaked in surprise and Artemis held his hand up. “It’s alright, Savanna. It’s just me.” The woman was beautiful, with pretty blue eyes that sparkled and long wavy, and sandy blonde hair.

“I’m glad you found work. I was beginning to worry.” Artemis set the plate down. “I got some food for you as well. Eat it up. Take a break.”

The woman nodded, she was mute and Artemis had found her a while back, about two years ago. They had traveled together, found out she was a runaway slave of twenty-three years and she lost her voice to the curse. Her voice box was the first to go. So he had helped her with making the same potion that his father once had but passed it off as a sleeping tonic. They had met again and again and Artemis wondered if it was fate. He watched Savanna eat the bread quietly and he reached over and played with her hair. She smiled and brought his hand up and cupped it gently in hers.

“Once I’m a knight, I’ll make you mine, I’ll protect you,” Artemis spoke softly. “Would you want that?”

The blonde woman nodded and nuzzled his hand gently and lipped the words: I’ll cheer for you at the big fight. You’ll do great.

“Thanks, Savanna. “ he paused and ran a finger gently down her throat. “Did the medicine help?”

There was a nod and she mouthed: I can breathe a lot better, thank you.

“I’m glad. Go and finish your meal and be on your way. I wish you could stay here but alas.” Artemis spoke as he laid back against the bed feeling tired. She nodded and finished the plate of food before leaning over and giving Artemis’s nose a gentle kiss through the bandages. He smiled under them and watched her leave. For now, he would rest when he could and train before the big skirmish.

Before Aretmis knew it, the day of the skirmish arrived and the dragoons were in high spirits. The men were getting their armor on and goofing off until a trumpet was heard. It seem Prince Dion had arrived in all his beauty and grace. He was more stunning than Artemis realized and he radiated more grace than he could ever imagine. He shared a similar shade of hair as Savanna and Artemis realized he must liked looking at beautiful people. Who wouldn’t? Prince Dion was giving orders to his personal squad. The cloaked bearer noticed another man, taller than the prince standing close and seemed almost overly protective. Was that Sir Terence he heard about? Dion’s right hand man? It could be.

It was their eyes met and Sir Terence gave a puzzled look. Artemis felt his heart race as he motioned for him to come over and the dragoons stopped and stared. It grew oddly quiet and the hooded man just wished he could jump away from this awkwardness. Why would they want to see him? Did they realize he was a bearer or he had a deep friendship with Savanna? A million thoughts ran through his head as he walked over to the prince and his general.

Prine Dion gave a curious look and Sir Terence spoke strictly. “I have noticed you are not wearing armor or preparing any. Is ther a reason?”

Artemis felt nervous. “Y-Yes my lords.” he stammered. “Well, I..uh.”

“He’s a burn victim, my lords.” Hans spoke as he walked over. “He can not wear our armor as it hurts him but despite that, he is very skilled with a lance and with his footwork.” he explained. This left both Sir Terence and Prince Dion stunned.

“You still fight despite being burned?” Sir Terence asked.

“Yes, sir.” Artemis replied.

“You must have a strong spirit.” Prince Dion remarked, impressed. “I see. Armor would be too painful and how do you protect yourself?”

“I wear leather armor. It’s not as harsh as the heavy armor.” the hooded man replied.

“So that explains the hood and bandages. You have my condolences. What is your name?” Dion asked.

“Artemis Thorn, my grace.” he bowed lightly.

“Ah! You are the one the reports spoke about. You took out a horde of Coeurls to save my men. You have my gratitude, my young dragoon. I hope to see you thrive on the battlefield today.”

“You shouldn’t pick favorites.” Sir Terence spoke lightly, with an amused smile on his face.

“Am I?” Dion asked playfully. “Well, nonetheless, it should be quite a spectacle.”

Artemis nodded. “I shall do my best, your grace.” he bowed and hurried away. That was close. He hated lying to such a nice person but he had to survive, he had to live for his deceased family. To live is to be strong and strong he must become. The dragoons would serve that purpose. The hooded bearer moved to grab his lance and the skirmish began.

—

The day of the skirmish passed by and Artemis found himself one of the top competitors. While he wasn’t number one, Erik deserved that spot, he didn’t do too bad. Prince Dion and Sir Terence seemed pleased enough and the big feast after was loud and merry, but the hooded man rather stay in his tent and spend time with Savanna if she was free. The days passed by quietly. Soon they turned into months and then years. Before he knew it, two whole years passed by. He became stronger and fierce on the battlefield.

It was a summer evening as Artemis walked through the camp. He hadn’t seen Savanna in weeks. It was only when he overheard Conrad speak at the dining hall that he learned the truth of his friend.

“Yeah! My father took a liking to that lightning bitch bearer! It’s a shame that some beautiful people are born as bearer dogs but the old man only used her for a week before the curse spread and closed the bitch’s throat! She suffocated!” he drunkenly laughed and no one else said a word. Artemis felt his blood boil but he had to stay calm. His chest ached, Oh beautiful Savanna, gentle and kind, you did not deserve that fate. How he failed again to protect another person and despair took him. He hurried off from the mess hall back to his tent. He let his anger out on throwing his bed and any other items before kneeling down and silently crying into his hands.

This world was so cruel. It was so horrid.

It was after midnight when Artemis had packed his things and spear and began to sneak away from the camp. Savanna’s death devastated him and no one cared she was killed. Not even the dragoons who had to hold up Dion’s ideals. Oh, how he wished he could apolgoze to Prince Dion and Sir Terence but now, he was strong enough, he had to flee, to be alone because his persence brought tragedy.

Artemis made it out to the wooded area just beyond the camp when he felt a sudden heavy weight hit him hard against the ground. The breath left his lungs and he realized he smelled ale and meat. There was heavy breathing above him. “And where do you think the fuck you going?” Conrad asked. “I saw you sneaking about and followed you!” He pressed Artemis’s head to the ground.

“Still think you’re better than the rest of us, don’t you?” he picked up Artemis by the cloak and slammed him into the trunk of a tree and pressed into him. The bearer shuddered, feeling the man’s erection against his backside. He was drunk and horny? The big man spoke. “Come on, suck my cock and I won’t tell anyone you were trying to run away!” he pressed harder against the smaller man. Artemis shivered in disgust.

“Unhand me!” he strugged. Only if his lance was in arm’s reach but it was knocked away. So deep in his despair he didn’t hear the heavy footfalls of Conrad’s jump. How careless he was. He felt fat fingers grab his waist.

“Come on! Losen up!” he swung Artemis around and pinned his arms above his head. “Maybe if you get fucked silly, you’ll lighten up! Be a good boy and listen to daddy!” he drunkenly laughed and moved the hand from his hip and ripped off the bandages. Vibrant red hair fell from the hood and his bearer mark was exposed.

“Eh? You’re not all burned up? What the hell is this!?” he eyed the tattoo. “YOU’RE A BEARER BITCH!” he roared in laughter. “Well, I’m going to fuck you silly and then send you to my father! He likes em pretty!” The man roared again.

Artemis growled and his eyes filled with rage. “She was my friend you ugly pig fuck!” with that, he summoned his fire and slammed his fits hard into Conrad’s eyes, burning and blinding him. “I hope my face is the last you ever see, get on your belly and squeal like a piggy!” Rage held onto the redhead as he kicked Conrad down.

“You piece of shit bearer! YOU’LL PAY! YOU WILL BE EXECUTED! “He lay on the ground cupping his eyes. The bearer kicked him in the face and then promptly, with all his force, stomped on it. “ You’re the piece of shit! You are a loud, disgusting, drunk piece of chocobo shite! You bring nothing but disgrace and if Prince Dion or Sir Terence ever met you, they be repulsed! I’m more a dragoon than you’ll ever be!”

He gave him another harsh kick before moving to pick up his pack and spear and running off leaving the blind man to squeal in pain, his fat form rolled and cried. Artemis learned a harsh lesson, this world was very cruel. It wouldn’t be fixed.

Arv IV: Hope, Everlasting.

A long, three years living on the road and on the run passed. Throughout the regions of Sanbreque, a manhunt and a bounty were placed upon Artemis’s head. He was chased and hunted countless times and his luck ran out when he fell into a bandit’s bear trap and caught. He was beaten, his beloved spear broken and thrown away, stripped of his clothing, assaulted, and chained to a tree to die like a dog. These bandits were sadists but didn’t know who he was otherwise he wouldn’t have a head anymore.

The redhead felt numb, his wounds stung and all he could remember was his father’s words, Savanna’s pretty and warm smile, and Fredrick’s laugh. By the flame…was he going to die here? Buck naked and tied to a tree like an animal? This world was cruel. Fuck the creator who made the world this way, Artemis thought.

“Oh, great phoenix…” Tears began to form and slid down his pale and beaten skin. “If you are out there somewhere…guide me to my family…guide me back to those rose-filled gardens, in the afterlife, guide me to my ancestors…guide me from his cruel and unjust world.” Artemis’s voice cracked as he tugged at the chains.

“The Pheonix, you say?” came a gentle voice.

Artemis lifted his head, his face dirty with muck and tears. His vision blurred due to the water in his eyes. He saw some people there but didn’t sound like bandits. “Yes, the Pheonix…I am of Roseria.” he hiccuped a sob. For a moment, he thought he saw his father and mother and Fredrick.

“It will be alright. We’ll free you.” came an oddly familiar voice. Where did he know that voice? It was deep and gruff as it had been through hell. For a moment, his mind flashed to the Archduke with a kind voice and he saw a face of a man that resembled the late Archduke.

“A-Archduke Elwin?” Was this a ghost.

“Not quite.” Clive replied as he knelt down. “Wait…I know you.”

Gav worked on breaking the chains off of Artemis’s wrist.

“You are the Doctor’s boy.” Clive said stunned.

“You are..” Artemis’s eyes widen. “You are Clive! The Archduke’s son! I-I thought.” More tears began to flow. How dare this world give him a reason to hope, how dare it when it was so cruel?

“Easy now,” Clive replied. “We will have time for that later. You need to stay calm.”

Artemis felt a whirlwind of emotion and when he was freed, he promptly fell to the ground, blacking out. It had been nearly three days since he had been chained to the large tree. The redhead was taken back to the hideaway where he was promptly taken to Tarja’s infirmary. There he regained consciousness.

“You are quite lucky to be alive,” spoke Tarja. “The worst has passed.”

“Where am I?” Artemis asked.

“Safe in our outlaw hideaway,” she replied.

“I see. You are the group that has been liberating bearers?” Artemis asked as he struggled to sit back up. Tarja pushed him back down and continued on with her work.

“Exactly. You are with good people.”

Artemis couldn’t help but remember his father. The fact that one of the sons of Archduke Elwin was alive. It felt like a miracle. “You help the bearers and branded?”

“Yes.” Tarja replied as he began to make some medicine.

“Use my blood.” Artemis spoke with deep determinantion.

“Excuse me?”

“My blood. It has speical properties. It doesn’t cure the curse but forstall the effects of it for a time. I know how to make it into a medicine. My father… the man who bought me as a child, he made the formula.”

Tarja was silent. She walked over and pulled the blanket up further upon the red head. “Tell me more later. For now, just rest.”

Artemis blinked and smiled lightly. He began to drift asleep with memories of his father, his mother, of Fredrick and of Savanna. For once, his dreams were happy memories and not field with the nightmares he had endure. For a moment, he felt he was in hope’s embrace, and for now, he dared to believe in it. It was something to cling too.

For now, he would rest.

#artemis #mv

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