A Proud Mother

"I'm so proud o' ya, Cuicui! But ya kno' me... I ain't one ta be all sappy! That is yer Daddy's job! I want ya ta keep it up, an' I'mma do mah best ta s'pport us all an' see ya grow. Yer gittin' older, so ya got mo' challenges in store! Yer gonna see 'em thru, I jus' know it. Even if I gotta step in an' keep ya sharp!  Us dragons gotta hafta make sure we ain't slackin'! Ya gotta be strong fer me... Even if I ain't there..."

Vivian quietly awoke to hear the sounds of shuffling in the morning. It was an important day, but was a day where she stayed behind. It was the day that Cuicui, the happy little mage that was adopted by Sivard and herself, had set out to become stronger. Like her teacher, and a little inspired by herself, Cuicui was set on the path of a Sage, and Vivian couldn't be anymore proud. But this was a journey that Cuicui had to start on her own, and Vivian vowed not to intrude unless it was necessary. In addition, Vivian would need to hold down the fort, for she knew her Husband was a major worrier over her safety, mentally and physically.

There wasn't a doubt in Vivian's mind that Cuicui would succeed in her journey. While she didn't know anything about the Sage Exam, she knew Cuicui had an excellent teacher in Ryumei. In addition, Cuicui had taken much inspiration from herself, especially during the time of Sivard's absence. Both the family of 'Dragons' needed to grow stronger and support each other, and Vivian had a small celebration in mind. Cuicui had endured much and worked too hard to fail, which was never even an option to entertain. She was growing up right before Vivian's eyes, but certain details would never change.

After settling her Sons with a nap, timing it with Sivard napping from 'worry fatigue', Vivian set off to a familiar bakery. This bakery was like a cherished place in Cuicui's heart, a place where she could indulge in one of her absolute favorite treats. Despite Sivard wanting his family to eat healthy and good portions, this was a time of celebration! Vivian felt that there were times to reward each other by indulging in sweets, every now and then. Thus, she made the order to have an assortment of lemon, grape, and vanilla creme puffs.

There was still time in the day to set up the sweets in the kitchen to celebrate Cuicui's Graduation. After tending to her Boys and helping Sivard prepare for Cuicui's return, keeping the ever-hungry Reiru away from the goods, she took a moment to reflect upon their previous struggles. The Vianchiel had been through much, and there were still some hurdles to overcome. With immense love, she snuggled Lucius in her arms while she overheard Julius giggling at Sivard and his hair. "Mah Lil' Dragons... Yer Big Sis werkin' hard fer yer sake an' all o' us..." she whispered to Lucius, who responded by wrapping his arms around neck in an embrace. "Yer a Sweetie..." It was then a more solemn expression formed on her face, her thoughts shifting to what was ahead of her. "I still got something ta do... I cain't put it off fer much longer... I hope ya an' yer Sibs can fergive me... I hope yer Daddy can fergive me..."

Just then, a familiar verbal tic was heard outside. Cuicui had returned home and, judging by the happy tone in her voice, she was more than triumphant. Vivian could see that Sivard had an odd expression on his face, assuming that it may have to do with a new class uniform. Not wishing to sour the mood with her additional thoughts, she gave Lucius a short kiss and smiled, heading off to meet the stronger Cuicui and congratulate her on a job well done. Then it would be time to celebrate with creme puffs aplenty and listen to what the Exam was like, a new family story and memory to share.