Seia: Yearned Family And The Meaning of Love

Chapter 33 - Seia: Yearned Family And The Meaning of Love

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[Seia POV]

My name is Seia, or at least that's what my late parents called me before their untimely demise. I don't recall much from those early years, but the loneliness has always lingered. Losing my family at such a tender age left me yearning for someone to love me.

I found myself orphaned and banished from my home for reasons unknown. In that desolate state, accepting death seemed like the only option. However, life had other plans for me. By a stroke of luck, or perhaps fate, an elderly woman wielding a gun stumbled upon me in the depths of a forest and decided to adopt me.

From that point on, my life took a delightful turn. I began to address her as "Mother" and embraced her as my newfound family. Together, we shared meals, maintained our living space, slept side by side, and engaged in activities that defined the essence of a family.

How shocking. As it turns out, my mother was a retired Bounty Hunter, a seasoned professional skilled in hunting down wanted individuals. She took it upon herself to teach me how to wield a Gun, providing me with the means to defend myself. Initially, the recoil and loud bangs proved to be a challenge, everything was too scary for me.

Nevertheless, the joy it brought to both of us kept the lessons going until I became proficient. 

Curiosity led me to ask why she decided to help me, considering she was human and I, a Fox Demi-human. Did my presence not disgust her? I asked. Her response—now etched within my heart, resonated deeply.

"Such thoughts never crossed my mind when I found you," she explained, pausing as if reliving cherished memories. "I started bounty hunting at a young age and continued until I was too old to carry on. It was then that I began to feel the weight of loneliness. When I discovered you alone in the deep forest, I saw a reflection of myself. Perhaps, in adopting you, I sought to dispel the loneliness in my heart, regardless of whether you were a Demi-human or not."

As she looked into my eyes with a touch of sorrow, she asked, "Disappointed?"

"No," I replied. "The truth is, I, too, sought someone to love me. I was lonely as well. But since you adopted me, my life has become more joyful than ever."

And thus, we discovered the depth of our feelings for each other. Another year had passed as life of happiness continued within my everyday life. It makes me just thinking, hoping that such this life goes on forever.

However, as the years passed, my mother's advancing age began to take its toll.

Until that very day...

On that fateful day, she lay in bed, her breathing labored. I knew the end was near, but nothing could prepare me for the heartache that followed. Holding my mother's frail arm, I wept uncontrollably as she uttered her final words.

"Seia... find someone... that will stay by... your side... no matter what happened..."

It was a cry unlike any other, a raw outpouring of grief that seemed to stretch on for an eternity. When I finally composed myself and rose to attend to my mother, I noticed a piece of paper clutched in her other hand. As I unfolded it, her true final words struck me to the core.

Seia, my daughter, I can probably guess that you're a mess right now after crying too much. Unfortunately, this time, I won't be there anymore to wipe your tears for you. But fret not. You see, I knew you wanted to enroll in the Academy ever since I saw your smile when we talked about it.

Wiping away my tears, I turned to the next page.

That's why I saved up money so that you can enroll in the Academy, enough to cover your expenses until graduation. It's called the "Imperial Academy," supposedly the largest in the entire capital. It might be challenging for you, being a somewhat awkward child, but I believe you'll find someone who will stay by your side, no matter what challenges you face. If you find that person, stick with them, for they will be your ally in times of hardship.

I will rest and watch you from afar, so no matter what happens, be a good girl and always stay strong.

Sincerely, your mother.

As I finished reading the last page, I realized that, once again, I was crying. This time, tears flowed not only for the loss of my mother but also for the love and sacrifice she had bestowed upon me.

Thank you, mother, for everything...

* * *

I treasured my mother's precious gift and eagerly enrolled in the prestigious Imperial Academy.

"W-Wow," Excitement sparkled in my eyes as I navigated through the bustling grounds, where hundreds of students from diverse races painted a vibrant tapestry of academia. The journey towards the faculty filled me with a sense of anticipation and hope.

There are many people the same age as me. I wonder if someone could become my friends?

Is what I had hoped. However, reality hit me like a sudden storm, and the optimism was swiftly replaced by the harsh winds of adversity.

"P-please don't hurt me...!"

I whimpered, a male human student delivering blows as I cowered in self-defense. The fear of incurring the wrath of higher-ups if I retaliated held me back. I had no choice but to shield myself, enduring the onslaught from three assailants.

"N-no...! Please, someone help me...!" My desperate cry echoed through the turmoil. Although hope was fading, I continued to call out.

And then, in that dire moment, he appeared.

"If you don't get out of here after 3 seconds, I will crush your balls next!"

A guy with lustrous crimson hair swiftly dispatched the students attacking me. Relief and fear mingled within me as he approached. Despite his assistance, I could only think but pessimistic considerations.

However, my anticipation turned to surprise as he handed me a healing potion—an item not easily affordable. Each bottle cost a substantial amount, a sum I would need to work hard to earn. Yet, he offered it without hesitation.

"I'm so sorry, I don't have anything with me, but please don't hurt me," I begged, terror evident in my voice. My financial means were limited, barely enough to cover my entire graduation. I won't be able to pay such expensive debt.

"Eh? N-no, I don't mind. I gave you one because you were in dire need of help. You're seriously injured, so I thought it might help. Besides, why would I hurt you after just healing you?"

My thought process came into a halt. Could I really accept such kindness? The engrained belief that everyone expected compensation for their help had me questioning, but his reassurance brought a flicker of trust, it left me indecisive.

After ensuring I was okay, the guy prepared to leave. Grateful and curious, I desperately called out to him, yearning to know his name. I could never just ignore that special someone...!

"Sai! Sai Crimsonheart," he introduced.

Sai Crimsonheart, huh. Hm, a name that will be etched within my memory. I vowed never to forget the second person to show me such kindness...

* * *

The next day, our class gathered for introductions to familiarize ourselves. The instructor was poised to begin the first discussion when two students burst into the room, drawing the attention of everyone present. Others may probably be just surprised, my shock most likely surpassed theirs.

The person who had rescued me the previous day was not just present but happened to be my classmate. A smile naturally graced my face as I observed him introduce himself at the front.

Given my struggle with socializing, it wasn't until the break that I mustered the courage to approach him. Relief washed over me when he responded to my initial call, but my nervousness escalated as I babbled on without introducing myself. I couldn't help but feel a wave of bashfulness. Ugh, how embarrassing!

Then came the most challenging part. Summoning all my courage, I earnestly asked if we could be friends. It might have come off as desperate, but I believed beggars can't be choosers. My heart raced with anxiety, fearing rejection and the possibility of solitude once more. Yet—

"Likewise, I hope we get along," Sai responded and even winked at me.

I couldn't pinpoint why, but it sent a flutter through my heart. Was it the acknowledgment of my proposal that triggered this response?

I'm a little confuse...

But that wasn't the end of it. Sai went on to invite me into his circle of friends. Nervousness gripped me, considering his friends were among the most renowned in the academy. However, Sai's support and guidance eased my apprehensions, eventually making me feel at ease at everyone.

From that point on, our friendship flourished. I found joy in their company, particularly with Luna and Lily. Our friendship reached a point where I noticed myself beaming with laughter and smile throughout the day. Our connection deepened further when Sai assisted the three of us regarding a challenging topic the teacher had discussed. Despite Sai not paying much attention, he managed to grasp the intricacies, easily earning my admiration.

Everything Sai was doing looks so amazing into my eyes...

* * *

"Uhm... Is it really okay for me to be here?" I stammered nervously.

Out of the blue, Sai extended an invitation to the three of us for what he referred to as sparring practice. He emphasized its significance for an upcoming event just days away. While I was fraught with anxiety about why I was included, Sai remained undisturbed and answered my worry,

"I have plans for you, so stay there for now, and you're next," Sai declared.

Once again, my heart raced, its rapid beats sending pulses of unfamiliar sensations through me. I couldn't quite comprehend the whirlwind of emotions stirring within me.

Yet, Sai's words didn't end there. As I busied myself with preparations, he leaned in and whispered, catching me off guard.

"Seia, if something is bothering you, don't be shy to ask us for help. You are already one of us, so don't be reserved," he said, gently patting me.

My heart ached more intensely than ever. It raced in overdrive, leaving me in a state of confusion and relief. To hear those words, to finally feel the warmth of someone willing to support me, brought an indescribable joy. Having been alone for so long, such simple expressions of kindness resonated deeply within me.

This feeling was genuinely pleasant to the feel. However, albeit it resonates the similarity of what I felt as a "feeling or the true family," this one was quite far off the mark,

I don't understand...

* * *

Today marked the commencement of the Student Exploration, a day of perilous adventures in a treacherous location. The instructor's announcement urged us to prepare about the perilous nature of the upcoming venture. It can't be helped, be it danger as it may, it was still an opportunity of us to grow as a person, taken by the risks.

However, my anxiety heightened when the next instruction came,

"Please form a group of four. We will divide you so that everyone can experience the full event, as it is also necessary for you to form camaraderie and good teamwork."

Eh? I though all of us will venture together...? I had few friends, Sai, Luna, and Lily, with whom I felt closest. But, most likely, they're probably already together with Sora... I feared being left out.

Fear of being left out hunted me. Anxiety welled up, and tears blurred my vision. But just as despair began to take hold, a familiar voice reached out to me.

"Hey Seia, if you don't have anyone to group with, won't you join us then?"

I turned to find Luna, Lily, and Sai looking at me with warm smiles. 

"Eh? I thought you already had Sora with you...?"

"Sora? Ah... Well, I was invited by him, but I refused. I already have a team I have planned to group with, you see?" Sai explained. "And you're one of them, so won't you accept my invitation?"

His words echoed the sentiment of my mother's final advice.

Seia... find someone... that will stay by... your side... no matter what happened...

I see... so that's what is it mother... I finally get it now.

"Only if you want, okay? It's not like I'm forcing you to join me or anything."

"Mhm," I shook my head. "Please let me join you."

Approaching them with a radiant smile, I couldn't help but express my happiness.

"Man, I thought you were going to reject my invitation," Sai remarked.

"Of course not. You've given me everything, so why would I reject you?"

"Again, with exaggerations..." Sai sighed.

ATTENTION!! WHEN YOU'RE ALL READY, PLEASE HEAD THROUGH THE PORTAL AS WE'LL BE DEPARTING ANY MOMENT SOON. The loud announcement snapped our attention.

"Ah, looks like it's starting. Let's go," Sai declared.

"""YES!""" The three of us shouted in unison, stepping through the portal together.

"You look happy for some reason, Seia," Sai observed.

"It's nothing. Hehe~!"

"Haha, if you say so."

I'm really glad I met Sai.