Evangeline's cheeks flushed crimson, her embarrassment evident as she stammered, "What are you talking about, Madam Principal? We're far too young to be thinking about children, and besides, it's none of your business." Mana nodded in agreement, though her own cheeks tinged with a hint of pink.
Principal Rosaline chuckled lightly, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. "Oh, come now, I was just teasing to lighten the mood."
Internally, however, Rosaline couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement at the thought of Evangeline and Mana starting a family someday. She couldn't wait to see them as parents, their love blossoming into something even more beautiful.
"Oh, and Mana, we've found a temporary solution to your problem," Rosaline added, conjuring a delicate collar in her hand.
The collar was an exquisite piece of craftsmanship, adorned with intricate engravings and shimmering gemstones that seemed to dance in the light. Its intricate design hinted at powerful magic imbued within.
Evangeline's eyes widened in awe as she took in the sight of the collar, marveling at its beauty. With gentle hands, she carefully fastened it around Mana's neck, the cool metal sending a shiver down Mana's spine.
As the collar clicked into place, a sense of relief washed over Mana. She could feel the magic within the collar pulsing softly against her skin, soothing her and offering protection against the mysterious master's influence.
Rosaline watched the scene unfold with a warm smile.
"Thank you for the collar, Principal Rosaline. It will be of great help," Mana said, offering a grateful smile.
"Oh, it's nothing, Mana. Just keep being a good student. By the way, could you tell me what you were doing with that infamous master? Do you know his name, his appearance, or his plans, for example?" Rosaline inquired.
Evangeline's attention immediately sharpened at Rosaline's question, her curiosity piqued. Mana tried to recall, furrowing her brow in concentration before responding.
"I'm truly sorry, but I don't remember anything. It's as if a part of my memory has been erased," Mana replied, her expression clouded with sadness.
"It's not your fault, Mana. Don't worry," Evangeline reassured, gently patting Mana's head.
"Yes, Evangeline is right. It's not a big deal. We'll eventually find a way to corner this mysterious master. But for now, rest well," Rosaline said, heading towards the door. Then, Azumi, Misaki entered the room.
Rosaline nodded in acknowledgment towards the others before departing. Azumi and Misaki approached Mana and Evangeline, with Azumi being the first to speak.
"The other day, we didn't have a chance to properly introduce ourselves. I'm Azumi, Evangeline's mother and the queen of the human realm. And this is my wife," Azumi said with a smile, gesturing towards Misaki.
"I'm Misaki, also a queen of the humans and Evangeline's second mother. And what's your name?" Misaki asked, addressing Mana.
"I'm Mana, pleased to meet you. Though I wish it were under better circumstances," Mana replied, scratching her head.
"It's all right. By the way, are you and Evangeline a couple, by any chance? We saw you kissing earlier," Azumi asked with a smile on her face.
This question made both Mana and Evangeline blush. In truth, they hadn't yet discussed how to define their relationship, so they were unsure how to respond.
As the question hung in the air, Evangeline and Mana exchanged a glance, unsure of how to answer. Evangeline cleared her throat before speaking.
"Well, um, we... haven't really talked about it yet," Evangeline admitted, her cheeks turning a deeper shade of red.
"Yeah, we're still figuring things out," Mana added, feeling a bit awkward under the scrutiny of Azumi and Misaki.
Azumi and Misaki exchanged knowing looks before Misaki spoke up again. "That's perfectly fine, dear. Take your time to figure things out. Love is something that shouldn't be rushed."
Azumi nodded in agreement. "Indeed, relationships should develop naturally. Just know that we support you both, whatever you decide."
Evangeline and Mana felt a sense of relief wash over them at Azumi and Misaki's understanding words. They exchanged grateful smiles with each other before returning their attention to Azumi and Misaki.
"By the way, Mana," Azumi began, her voice gentle yet earnest, "the doctor mentioned earlier that if you wanted, you could be discharged today. We were thinking, would you like to come and stay with us? It would be safer than being at the school, and you wouldn't feel so alone."
Misaki chimed in, her smile warm and reassuring. "Also, the principal mentioned that you're an orphan, so there's no one to take care of you. We want to help."
Mana's heart swelled with gratitude at their offer. She felt a lump form in her throat as she struggled to find the right words to express her emotions. After a moment, she managed to speak, her voice laced with sincerity.
"I... I don't know what to say. Thank you, both of you," Mana replied, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I would be honored to stay with you."
Azumi and Misaki exchanged a glance, their expressions softening with compassion. They reached out to envelop Mana in a comforting embrace.
Upon witnessing this scene, Evangeline couldn't help but smile, joining in the embrace. Azumi then took the lead.
"Evangeline and Misaki, I suppose Mana must be hungry now. Why don't the two of you go and fetch some food for her?"
Evangeline, taken aback by the suggestion, protested, "But why? I'm sure Misaki can handle getting food all by herself. I'll stay here."
However, her objection was met with a stern look from Azumi.
"Evangeline, stop talking nonsense, and let's go," Misaki said, taking Evangeline's hand and swiftly leaving the room, leaving Mana and Azumi alone.
Azumi turned to Mana, her expression serious.
"Mana, are you sure Evangeline didn't pressure you into being with her? Because you deserve better than Evangeline. Besides, you seem like a kind girl. Don't let yourself be charmed by her pretty face," Azumi said earnestly.
Upon hearing Azumi's words, Mana couldn't help but laugh.
"Don't worry, I'm truly in love with your daughter, and she didn't force me into anything," Mana replied with a smile.
Azumi seemed relieved to hear this.
"Alright, but if she ever dares to hurt you, let me know. I'll kick her butt. Anyway, welcome to the family," Azumi said, patting Mana's head.
Azumi's words brought a warm feeling to Mana's heart, reassuring her of the acceptance into Evangeline's family. She appreciated Azumi's protectiveness and sincerity.
"Thank you, Azumi. I'll keep that in mind," Mana replied, feeling grateful for the support and kindness she was receiving from Evangeline's family.