A year had passed since the remarkable events at the De Lolce mansion. The names of the triplets—Selena, Aerielle, and Aella—had gained fame not only in their local region but across other lands. They had earned the trust and admiration of many, each carving out their own unique place in the world.
Selena had become known as a "Villainess." Her reputation as an antagonist among the wealthy grew from her actions and her relentless pursuit of monsters and supernatural beings. Despite her actions being pivotal in saving countless lives, her demeanor and the way she dealt with the privileged—often harsh and unapologetic—earned her this moniker. She was exceptional at killing monsters, a skilled hunter, a brilliant strategist, and a master of combat. Though she helped many, she remained indifferent about it, often stating:
"I have no intention of helping you; I just want to kill monsters."
Her reputation sparked conversations among the locals.
"She seems crazy sometimes, doesn't she?" one man whispered to his friend.
"Yeah, and her gaze can be quite intimidating," his friend replied nervously.
In contrast, Aerielle's perfume shop had become a sensation. People, particularly men, flocked to her store not only to buy her products but to catch a glimpse of her beauty. Her shop was a magnet for attention, drawing in crowds and creating a stir wherever she went. This success stirred up jealousy and competition among those who wished to see her fall.
Meanwhile, in Rosa's Mansion...
Rosa sat at the dining table, fuming with frustration.
"Why does everyone seem captivated by her? I'm beautiful too, but why are all the men enchanted by her? Even Mike, the man I wanted, fell for her at their first meeting."
Charlize, her close friend, tried to offer consolation, but her own problems weighed heavily on her.
"I don't know either. My perfume shop is failing because everyone is going to Aerielle's. It's like all the attention has shifted away from us."
Rosa's frustration reached a boiling point.
"Aahhhh!!!" she screamed, throwing the contents of the table to the floor.
Charlize's eyes widened in fear. "Rosa's anger is truly frightening."
Rosa seethed with rage and determination. "I'll bring her down one day!"
But no matter how hard Rosa tried, Aerielle's success seemed unshakable. Competitors were forced to close their shops or find new ways to earn a living. Aerielle's confidence grew with each passing day.
Aerielle stood before her mirror, admiring her reflection.
"Ah, I really am beautiful!" she mused, basking in her own admiration.
Known to many as the "Enchantress," Aerielle embraced her role with grace and pride.
Now, let's turn to Aella.
Aella had become well-loved, especially by children, as a kind-hearted teacher. Every Sunday, she attended services at the temple, offering donations. In her spare time, she fed street children, provided them with toys, vitamins, and supplies, and assisted those affected by various calamities. She even provided legal aid to the poor, earning her the title of "Saintess" in her community.
One day, a child approached her after school.
"Teacher! Teacher!" the child called out eagerly.
Aella turned with a smile. "Oh, what is it, Hanzel?"
Hanzel, his face bright with excitement, said, "I saw you yesterday at Antoinette's Noodles Shop with two other women."
Aella's smile faltered slightly. "Oh, you were there too? I didn't notice you or your parents. Sorry about that." She placed a hand gently on Hanzel's shoulder.
Hanzel blushed. "It's okay. But who were the other two women with you? Are they your siblings who are also popular here?"
Aella hesitated for a moment. "We're not really popular, but yes, they are my siblings. Why do you ask?"
Hanzel continued with curiosity, "I just wanted to make sure they were your siblings. But why do you all have different hair colors? And why do some of my classmates say you siblings didn't inherit much from your parents?"
Aella considered her response carefully. "The traits we inherited are from our ancestors, our grandparents. But we all have blue eyes," she said with a nervous chuckle. (Sorry, Hanzel, but I can't tell you the truth.)
Hanzel's eyes widened. "Is it true you all studied only at home?"
Aella nodded, swallowing hard. "Yes."
Hanzel's curiosity continued. "And why did it take so long for you three to come out and introduce yourselves to us?"
Aella forced a smile, feeling unwell. "We were sickly. Oh, I need to head home now. Let's talk again tomorrow. Bye!" She hurried off.
"Okay, bye!" Hanzel waved, then thought to himself, "I don't think my teacher is lying about my questions," as he cheerfully walked home.
Three days later...
The climate was snowy, and a soldier rushed towards Duchess Selena.
Selena was calmly drinking tea when the soldier arrived, breathless.
"Duchess! Duchess!" the soldier called out urgently.
Selena paused, setting her tea aside. "What's the matter?"
The soldier dropped to one knee. "Monsters have appeared in the capitol!" he reported, visibly worried.
Selena stood abruptly. "Assistant!"
The assistant rushed over. "Yes, Duchess?"
"Prepare my outer garments and get my carriage ready," Selena ordered.
"At once, Duchess," the assistant replied, bowing.
As Selena arrived at the capitol...
The chaos was immediate and overwhelming. People were screaming, wounded lay scattered, trees and structures were toppled, and homes were burning. Most alarming were the giants wreaking havoc.
Selena's eyes widened. "Giants!" she hissed under her breath. She turned to her commanding officers. "Group of Almorante! Help the injured and evacuate everyone to safety!"
Almorante bowed in response. "Understood, Duchess."
Selena continued with determination. "Group of Crisostomo! Ensure that no one, including tourists, can enter this area. Block and prevent them!"
Crisostomo nodded. "Understood, Duchess."
"Group of Estel! Search the wreckage for any people who may be trapped under debris and check the burning structures! The rest of you will stay with me to fight and defeat the giants!"
The soldiers responded in unison. "Yes, Duchess!" they shouted.
Selena addressed the archers and cannon operators. "Prepare yourselves! On my count of three, we will advance with the soldiers armed with swords and shields. Archers and cannon operators, wait for my signal!"
"Yes, Duchess!" the soldiers replied.
Selena turned to Oliver. "Go to Almorante's group and assess the situation of the injured and deceased. Then proceed to the hospitals to inform them so the wounded can be treated!"
"Understood, Duchess," Oliver said, bowing and leaving.
"Kanu, seek assistance to help clear the area and the destroyed structures after our battle with the giants," Selena instructed.
"Yes, Duchess," Kanu replied.
Selena held Kanu's shoulder. "And remember, if you see me signal with red fireworks and smoke, you know what to do."
"Yes!" Kanu said, swallowing nervously.
Selena addressed her troops once more. "Prepare yourselves!"
The soldiers readied for battle.
Selena counted down, "On my count of three, we charge! 1, 2... 3! ATTACK!!!"
The soldiers roared as they charged forward, and the giants bellowed in response. The clash was imminent as the battle between Selena's forces and the giants began in full force.