Arriving in Aznos by carriage, Christopher was fast asleep.
"Master, Masterrr! We're here!" Azure shook him. And he swiftly awakened.
"Mmm, we're here..?" Sitting up, he looked around. The carriage was at the entrance to the kingdom, along with about three others in front of it. "Huh? What's with all that traffic?"
"No idea. It seems pretty serious though. Just look at the guards!" Azure pointed out the guards. There were about five guarding the entrance, all dressed in full silver armour, equipped with long swords and metal shields. Definitely, something was wrong. He looked toward Almond, who stared ahead.
"Hey, is this what it's usually like in Aznos?" He questioned.
"No, not at all. There's never this many guards at the entrance." Almond responded, "Something must be amiss in the kingdom."
"Mmm." That made sense. The area around them was lush. There weren't any trees, but the path leading to the kingdom was smooth, no bumps in the dirt road were anywhere to be seen. What amazed Christopher the most was that there weren't any buildings around them as they rode. Only plain, untainted vegetation. Compared to his old world, his new one was much more undeveloped.
The walls were tall, about over ten feet above them. And the entrance to Aznos was blocked by a large, think door, made entirely from oak-wood. Soon, it was their turn to be inspected by the guards. Nobody said a word as two of the soldiers made their way to the carriage, and looked around it. Nothing strange was found...luckily...or that was what Christopher thought until one of them spoke to him.
"Hey, you. Is this your familiar?" The first soldier asked. His hoarse, strict voice sent chills down the young boy's spine
"O-Oh, y-yes sir." Christopher responded.
"Hmph, what's a kid your age doing with a familiar?" The man spoke, before strutting back to his post, along with the other.
"You all may enter. Thank you for your cooperation. If you notice any strange behaviours, do not hesitate to call us."
Now that was strange. Christopher thought. It was strange enough for that many to be posted by the entrance, but now they say that? Just what is going on here? They rode the carriage into Aznos. Entering, Christopher was dumbfounded. "W-Whoa...this really is another world..." He whispered to himself. The area he was in was nothing like he had imagined. Around him were many, many houses. All in two straight lines on either side of the wide, cobblestone road. They weren't cramped, but evenly spaced out. Some of them showed signs on the doors, or above them on a wooden pole, however, it was in a language he couldn't understand. The people around him all looked human, and wore human clothing. There were kids, adults of all ages. Shopping stalls were situated around the place in a very organized manner, and were in bulk further into the place. It was clear that stood out from the others. He felt eyes staring at him wherever he was. Azure was no different.
"Mmm...Master..." She spoke in a trembling tone, and clenched onto the back of Christopher's shirt. "...Everyone's looking at us..." Azure whispered.
"I know. Probably because I'm not completely human." Christopher remarked. Looking over to Azure, he gave her a smile, "Don't worry. If it comes to it, we'll just go to another kingdom."
"Okay..." It was obvious she had trouble with other people. He wondered if she would be comfortable enough to leave the carriage.
"Thanks again for the ride, Almond. You really saved us a lot of walking."
"Think nothing of it. It was the least I could do for you both after saving my butt from those thieves." Finally, they arrived at Almond's shop. "Now, as I said before, if you ever need my assistance with absolutely anything item wise, don't hesitate to come here."
"We won't." Christopher responded. Now that he was in a town, the first thing he thought about was finding a place to stay. Asking Almond, Almond gave him the directions to the nearest inn. That was where he thought of going next. Bidding farewell to the man, he with his familiar hovering along beside him, started making their way over.
On their way, they found great difficulty in navigating the streets. Everywhere they went seemed to lead back the way they came from.
"Mmm...at this rate we'd never find the inn...you tired, Azure?" Christopher peered over to his familiar. She definitely looked weary.
"N-No...not at all, master." She responded.
"You definitely look like you are." Christopher said. "Well, I'm gonna go ask somebody if they could help us find the place. Come on."
"W-Wait upppp!" Christopher and Azure approached the nearest individual. The person they approached was a man, about in his twenties. When the two saw him, they gave him a polite smile.
"Hello there." Christopher said. Azure stayed behind her master, and watched carefully. "Erm, we need some help. We're uhh, new in town and well, we don't actually know how to find our way around here...if you could help direct us to the nearest inn, that'll be greatly appreciated." The man they spoke to definitely was surprised-he had never seen animal humans in the kingdom before, let alone a child with a familiar like Azure was. At first, he remained silent. He only spoke when the familiar asked as well.
"U-Um....could...could you help us please? W-We're really tired..." Azure, as per usual, held onto the back of Christopher's clothes as she spoke. "...mmm..."
"S-Sure...R-Right this way..." Half reluctantly, he agreed to help them. And soon after, they finally found the inn.
When they got there, Christopher felt relieved. Finally, he was able to settle down for a bit. Inside the inn was pretty big. The front wasn't really packed. With only five or six persons. The walls were made from wood, and a dark brown colour. The floor wasn't much different. Many tables were set up past the entrance, and there, sat what looked to be adventurers. Customers. He figured. Moving over to the counter, the boy spoke.
"Hello there. How much for a room, please?"
"That'll be two silver coins a night per person. Will you two be sharing a room?" The woman at the counter stated.
"Y-Yes!" Azure exclaimed. Her entire face went red, then she retreated back to behind Christopher, and hid her face into the back of his shirt. "Mmmmmm! Y-You take over, m-master!"
"Whoa, c-calm down, Azure! Ahaha...." Christopher had gotten used to her timidity by then, but it still amused him.
"Alright. Your room will be the second to last, down the hall." The woman motioned to the hallway to her left where all the rooms were. "Will you be paying now?"
"Erm..." Christopher reached into his pants's pocket, and took out one of the two money pouches. "...Yeah..." Inside, there were about twenty five silver coins, and seven gold coins. "...Is this enough?" He took out the exact amount of silver for a night, and handed the lady.
"Yes. Thank you for your patronage. We hope you enjoy your stay at the 'Night-Sky' inn." She did a bow, then continued, "If you would like a meal tonight, that will be an extra two silver."
"Oh, sure." Two more silver coins were paid. Christopher was hungry, the last time he ate something was quite a bit before he died. Almost a day had past already. "Man, I'm hungry..."
"Thank you very much. The meals shall be delivered to your room today before sundown." The employee said.
"Ah, thanks." He looked at Azure, whose face was still red. "Aww...come on, Azure. We're off to our room."
"U-um...y-yes..m-m-master..."
"Oh?" When the lady heard Azure call Christopher by the term 'master', her eyes widened a little. "Is that your familiar, sir?"
"Yeah." Christopher nodded.
"Oh, I see. Enjoy your stay."
"Thanks. We're off now."
"Awwww mannn! Finally! Beds! Ahhh it feels like it's been forever since I last laid down on one..." The moment they entered the room, Christopher immediately laid down on the first bed that caught his sight. Their room was medium sized. The flooring was pretty much the same was the one back at the counter. The walls were wooden, and polished. There was a large, dark brown, cotton mat in the middle of it. Multiple candles illuminated the area, giving the room a calming atmosphere. With a single desk beside the slightly bigger than usual, single-sided bed, Christopher was relieved to finally be able to settle down, for the first time since he came to the world via reincarnation. Peering over to Azure, he motioned her over, "...Azure, you coming?"
"Ah-yes." She said. Her face was dyed pink, "But...there's only one bed though..."
"That's okay! You're small so, you wouldn't take up much space. You can lie down next to me." Christopher gave her a light smile. She still seemed hesitant, her body twitching a bit, the girl's gaze fell to the floor of the room.
"Come on, don't be shy, Azure." The boy said. "You're tired, right?"
"W-Well...j-just a little bit..." She responded.
"Lie down with me then. In case you're worried, I wouldn't do anything."
"I-If you insist, m-master...then as you familiar, I will lie down with you." Suddenly, her voice grew in volume, she exclaimed, "J-Just don't t-t-try anything indecent, okay?!"
"Okay, okay." Half amused, Christopher made space for her on the single bed. She sat beside him, then laid down beside him.
"Mmm...ahh...that's better..." She murmured under her breath. Melting into the bed's warm embrace, she chuckled, "...You were right, master. I really was tired." Azure spoke.
"Told ya." Christopher twinkled at her. "Ahh..."
" Knock Knock Excuse me. Your meals are here." There was a knock on the door. It was room service with the two meals for the duo. Getting up, Christopher opened the door.
"Whoa...this...this is for us?"
"Yes. These are the meals you ordered." The individual carrying them was a girl, older than Christopher. She seemed to be in her twenties. "Enjoy."
"Thank you." Christopher took the meals, then shut the door. Footsteps were heard as she walked away from the room's entrance.
"Oh-master? Are those for us?" Azure sat up, and as soon as she saw the food, her eyes were locked onto it.
"Yeah." Christopher nodded to her. "Gosh...I had no idea food here smelt so good!" He walked over, and handed Azure her meal. "Well, let's eat!"
"O-Okay!" The meal they ate consisted of white rice with seasoned, fried meat. And after getting a whiff of the meal, the boy immediately knew that the world he was in, was Heaven.
"Mmm...it's soooo good!! My God, why didn't food ever taste this good back at home?!"
"W-Whoa, c-calm down, master! Y-You're going to spill!" Azure, who sat next to Christopher on the bed, said with a slightly panicked look. "Mmm, but you are right." Finally, a smile formed on her petite lips. "This is pretty good. Better than food from Earth, at least."
"Yeah..." On spur of the moment, Christopher's mood suddenly drooped. Azure took quick note of this.
"Mm? What's wrong master? Is the food not good?" She was concerned. This was her first time seeing Christopher like that.
"No, it's not that...Just...Roselina...do you think she's alright, Azure?" Christopher looked at her. The smile he previously had was now faded. His face showed genuine worry for his lost thirteen year old sister.
"Roselina..." Azure looked a bit downwards. "...Well, I don't personally know her, master." She said, "But I'm sure she's alright." She twinkled at Christopher with a comforting grin, "Don't worry, you'll reunite with her eventually."
"I sure hope so, Azure." Christopher replied, "What Amaterasu told me back before he reincarnated me here...I couldn't believe it."
"Oh..." Azure somewhat understood where he came from. Swiftly after hearing that, she set her plate onto the bed, and scooted closer to him, where she wrapped her arms around his body, and lightly hugged Christopher.
The hug took him by surprise, but he accepted it. In turn, he set his food down, and returned the embrace. That was the very first hug he received from Azure.
"Mmm, thanks, Azure." Christopher squeezed her. She flinched, but reciprocated.
"You're welcome, master. Cheer up. We'll go looking for her tomorrow if you wish." Azure spoke in a quiet whisper. "In the meantime, eat up. And don't worry about it." Christopher was silent for a bit. But nodded.
"Alright." He remarked. Later retracting, after a moment of silence, they continued eating.
Finishing the meal, they laid down together on the bed, with a single blanket covering them both. Christopher, sending Azure a positive smile, said softly,
"Well, I guess this marks the end of day one for us."
"Yeah. It was fun." Azure replied. "Do you like the world you were sent to, Christopher?"
"Mhm. It's a lot different from my previous one, but I can get used to this...travelling around with a cute girl and overpowered girl as my familiar...it's Heaven."
"Mmmm! Master...I thought I said not to say any weird things either!" Hearing what he said, Azure's face turned a bit pink.
"Hahaha." Seeing her blush for the millionth time for the day, Christopher couldn't help but giggle. He placed a hand onto the little girl's head, and started to gently stroke her.
"Oh?" Azure was taken a bit aback by the action, but didn't refuse.
"Thanks for joining me, Azure. I really mean it. If it wasn't for you...I don't even think I would've made it this far."
"O-oh, you're welcome, master." Azure, hearing his thanks, felt satisfied. "But...there really isn't any reason to thank me or anything...I'm just doing what I was told to do by Elder God Amaterasu."
"I know." He responded. Taking his hand away, he laid on his back. "Well, goodnight, Azure. I'm heading off to sleep."
"O-Okay, goodnight, m-master..." Afterwards, the two shut their eyes, and went to sleep. This marked the end of Christopher's first day in the new world.
The night passed by quickly, the scent of Azure's sweet-smelling, vanilla scented hair overwhelmed Christopher's nostrils. He liked it, it granted him a peace of mind as he slept. The duo awakened early in the morning around sunrise.
"Ahhh, good morning, master." Azure spoke, wiping the blurriness from her peepers. Christopher was already awake. Looking at her, he smiled.
"Good morning, Azure. Sleep well?"
"Yawn. Yes. You?"
"Mhm." Christopher replied happily. "Haha, thanks the sweet scent of you hair."
"My hair..?" Azure perked her head sideways. As per usual, her face turned pink, "O-Oh, w-well...I-I'm glad I could b-be of use to y-you..." She averted her gaze from him, who laughed.
"Hahaha. Anyway, ready to go?" He asked her.
"Y-Yeah. S-Somewhat ready..."
"Alright. Let's go then."
"W-Wait for me!" After a few minutes, her and Christopher left their room.
Upon leaving the inn, the morning sunlight shone down upon them. It wasn't hot, but Christopher found it to be blinding.
"Mmm...where to now..." He was at a loss at what to do next. A day had already passed since his reincarnation.
"Hmm. Master?" Azure, who hovered beside him, called the boy over.
"Yes Azure?" He peered at her.
"M-Maybe we should see what we can find out about the increase of guards here. Th-There has to be some reason the king did that." The familiar spoke. She made sense. That was something Christopher wondered as well. Taking her advice, he bobbed his head.
"Ah, good idea." A thought came to his mind. If he asked a knight for the reason, if the king wishes to make it public, the knight would reveal it to him. But in the case where it is supposed to be kept a secret, they wouldn't. Spying would be the perfect thing to do in this situation. But even that posed a risk. If he was to be found, he would immediately be exiled from Aznos...which in itself would be a major loss to him. Should he do it? He wanted to. But should he really take that risk?
"Hrmph." Christopher already knew the answer. But his curiosity took the better of him, and he conclusion he reached was to spy on the knights. He informed Azure of his plan, and her immediate reaction was to nearly slap him.
"W-Whoa! A-Azure?!" He just barely dodged her attack by a hair's breath. M-My God...Now that, I wasn't expecting.
"Are you crazy, master?! You can't do that! I-If you're caught, y-you'd be kicked out of the kingdom! What if Roselina's here?! Surely you don't want that happening if she is, do you?!" Azure quietly scolded him. "A-And why would you even think about spying on them?!"
"H-Hey, I-I didn't say I was actually going to! C-Calm down already!" Christopher did his best to calm her down. But those words alone didn't tame the girl. They only made her fuse grow.
"Calm down?! Why would I be calm when my master's going to do something foolish?!"
"I-I'm not! I-I told you, i-it was just a thought of mine!" He told her. Somehow she managed to regain her composure, and finally talk normally.
"Sigh Well, if y-you were actually going to, I would've just used invisibility on you to make sure you're not caught..."
"Huh? You can do that?" The moment he heard that, his eyes lit up. "Wow! That's amazing, Azure!"
"W-Well I didn't say I would actually do it on you!" She tried protesting, but that only succeeded in confirming it to Christopher. "Mmm! Masterrrrrrr!! Please don't m-make me do anything y-y-y-y-you'll regret!!!"
"Hmm..." She said not to, but after hearing about the invisibility, he couldn't resist trying. The guards were being extra cautious outside the kingdom's gates, according to what Almond said. And if Azure could make me invisible...I could sneak inside the castle, and see just what's going on...Yep, I'm gonna make her. He thought. It was decided, he was going to ask her.
"...Azure. As my familiar, I ask of you, please, make me invisible." He said quietly.
"W-What?! B-But I just said n-not to make me do anything you'll r-r-reg-gret!"Azure stammered. "Master, you really sure about this?" She looked genuinely worried for him. Seeing this, he placed a hand onto her head, in between her animal ears. Azure's eyes were locked onto his as he spoke to her with, "Yes. I'm sure. Azure, with your level of magic, and your power, I'm sure nothing at all will go wrong. So please, make me invisible, Azure." He took his hand away afterwards.
"Well...as you wish, master. L-Let's go somewhere no one could see us first though..."
"Good idea." The pair went to the nearest empty alleyway. There, Azure used an invisibility spell on them both, which succeeded on completely hiding their presence, and bodies from everyone around them.
With that being done, Christopher and Azure made their way over to the king's castle in Aznos. The castle was gigantic, much larger than Christopher thought it would be. The exterior was made from thick, polished diorite. Both the front, and the back had two watch towers each. Here, knights were posted to keep an eye out on what goes on, on the outside. The entrance to the castle was guarded by two armoured soldiers. Due to the invisibility, Azure and Christopher were able to most easily make their way through without incident.
Inside, the scenery they were met with nearly made Christopher yelp. Ahead of them stood two curved staircases, leading to the second floor. A narrow red carpet lead the way to them. To their left, and their right were doorways leading to separate rooms.
"Mmm." Christopher murmured to himself. "Not exactly what I was expecting...Azure."
"Yes, master?" Azure acknowledged him in a soft tone.
"See any knights around?"
"No, not yet...oh?" Suddenly, a tall, muscular man was seen descending down the left staircase, along with a woman, who looked seemed to be his wife. Both of them wore robes, which showed that they were the king and queen of the nation. The man's hair was short, and combed to the back. His eyes were medium sized, and dark blue in colour. His skin was white, and he wore a buttoned, dark blue shirt, along with a pair of long black pants underneath his royal red robe. The queen (or at least, Christopher assumed she was) had long, light brown, straight, open hair, and light skin. Her face was oval shaped, and she looked at the king with a troubled expression. She wore a purple gown with white beads around her neck area.
"Dear...I know the situation is bad, but you've got to get your rest. You've been up all night thinking about this..."
"So, am I supposed to sit around and not worry that our daughter has been kidnapped? You foolish woman...I should've never let my eyes off her."
"Dear...calm down...we'll solve this, I'm sure of it...come on, let's get you to bed..."
"No!" The king slapped the woman's hand away from him, and she shrieked, then stepped back. "I refuse to rest until our daughter is back home safely!"
"D-Dear..." The queen looked to be on the verge of tears, yet she did not leave her husband's side.
Christopher was shocked to see all that. He peered over to Azure, who hovered beside him. She wasn't at all affected by the display.
"A-Azure..." He spoke.
"Yes master?"
"Did you get all that?"
"Yes. It seems like the king and queen are distressed about their daughter's abduction." Azure paid close attention to what was going on. The conversation between the royalties went on.
"Goodness...what are we to do? Oh my daughter...my precious daughter..." The king wept, his wife comforted him with kind words. From behind Christopher, someone approached, holding a page in hand. This instantly caught the attention of the royalties. Although, when the king saw him, his face scowled.
"Nnrng, and what do you want, oh messenger of Babalonia?"
"Hello there my dear king, it's good to see that you're in good health." The atmosphere abruptly tensed. Despite being invisible, Christopher was able to sense it.
"Just get on with it, can't you see that your king has done enough to us?" The queen of Aznos spoke. The messenger paid no heed, and approached.
"I have come bearing a message from his majesty, king of Babalonia. He says that in exchange for your daughter's safe return, he and the prince of Babalonia are to be wed. Shall you refuse, she will have an immediate execution."
"E-Execution?!" The royalties yelled in unison. "B-But that's preposterous! For she's just a child! You can't seriously execute a child!"
"My king pays no heed to mere ages. For age is an illusion created by the mortal mind." Said the messenger. "I shall return in one week to hear your response. Farewell, your majesties." The messenger took his leave.
"Damn!"
"C-Calm down, d-dear!" The king, stressed, slammed a fist into the wall.
"J-Just what is that king thinking...oh...my daughter....oh my daughter..."
Christopher and Azure left the castle shortly following. Moving to the plaza, Azure took off the invisibility while no one was looking. Eyes on each other, Azure asked him,
"What are we going to do, master? Do you plan on helping rescue the king's daughter?" Azure's voice was hushed, it was clear to them that if anyone found out about the princess's abduction, it would case a widespread panic.
"Yeah. 'Course we are." Christopher responded. "We can't just leave them like that...and with your invisibility, we'd be able to sneak out with her easily."
"Mmm..." Azure didn't seem too worried about this. For she already knew that the invisibility would work out. "...But wouldn't you have to get an audience with the king about this?" She questioned.
"Yes. And that's the tough part..." He laughed insincerely. "...Well, how about we go ask the knights at the front about if we could get an audience."
"And if they say no?" Azure replied.
"We'll just use invisibility to get an audience." Christopher said. His plan would probably work out, or so he thought.
"Mmmmmm alright..." Azure's face was troubled. "...Just try not to get us exiled, okay? I sort of like this place."
The duo went up to the castle guards. Upon viewing them, they blocked the entrance to the castle with their spears.
"Halt! Who goes there?" The one to the left exclaimed.
"Er, hello there! We'd like an audience with the king, please." Christopher spoke with as much maturity as he could muster. He was expecting the guards to laugh at him since he was still a child, but they didn't.
"Audience?" The left one questioned, "For what reason would you like an audience with his majesty?"
"B-Because..." Azure, who hid behind Christopher suddenly spoke up, "...b-b-b-b-b-b-because! W-We're um...m-merchants w-who would like to s-set up an establishment in your kingdom and we need a warranty to do that first!!!!" Her voice went seriously high pitched at the end there, and after speaking, she hid her face into Christopher's shirt with a completely red face. "Waaaaa.....masterrrrrr!!! Y-You take over, d-dummy!"
"Ahaha...you didn't have to do that, you know..." Christopher said to his familiar. "A-Anyway, you heard my familiar, we'd like an audience with your king, sirs."
"Hmph. Wait here, I'll go inform him of this." The one on the right spoke. He left his post, and entered the castle, which left them alone, with the one to the left.
"So...what's it like guarding the castle entrance?" Christopher, to break the silence, asked the guard.
"Boring. Nothing ever happens here." He said. "Is that....really your familiar?" His eyes fell upon Azure, who as soon as she noticed, shrieked, and held tightly onto Christopher.
"Master...h-he's looking at me...." She was definitely embarrassed. Even Christopher was surprised at her behaviour.
"Y-Yeah...ahaha...she is." He said in response.
"Wow...she's pretty." The castle guard mouthed.
"Mm." Christopher nodded.
The guard who entered the castle soon returned. Luckily, the audience was approved, and they entered the castle. Entering, there was a guard in front of the staircase. This one, accompanied them to the throne room. Arriving, they bowed in front of the royalties.
"Your majesties, the merchants."
"Very well. You may go."
"Yes, your majesty." On the king's word, the guard left them.
"Rise." The king ordered. Christopher and his familiar both stood straight. Azure's face showed clear signs of fear at the persons ahead of them. And Christopher understood. Not only were the king and queen there, but also a man clad in strong, iron armour stood beside them, weapon sheathed. His face was scarred, and he had light skin. The look on his medium sized, fiery red eyes clearly told them he wasn't someone to mess with. Before anything was said, the king spoke to them,
"Before we get started, the person standing beside you, who is that?" His majesty questioned.
"O-Oh, w-well...she...she's my familiar, Azure." Christopher replied.
"I-It is a pleasure t-t-t-t-to make y-your acquaintance, y-your majesty!!! Mmm!!!" Azure deeply bowed to them, and the volume of her tone startled them all...except for Christopher.
"H-Hey, A-Azure...calm down..." Christopher said. "...Ahaha...sorry. She's not really good with people."
"I can see that...and she can talk...you must be a highly advanced mage if you could summon one with such high authority." The king said. His face showed no clear signs of suspicion at the duo.
"M-M-M-M-Master..." Azure spoke to him, tears were starting to form in her eyes.
"Y-Yes Azure?"
"Mmmm...mm!" Promptly, she started hovering, and pressed herself onto Christopher's back. There, she hid her face behind his shoulders, and watched from behind him. "Y-You take over again!"
"Okay, okay..."
"Haha..." Only the queen found this amusing. "...That's quite the shy familiar you've got there, merchant."
"You don't know the half of it." Christopher said.
"Anyway, let's get down to business. And the real reason we came here." Christopher stated. The royalties were surprised when they heard this. For they thought he only came to obtain a warrant for business.
"Your majesties. My familiar and I have come here because we wish to help you retrieve your daughter back from the hands of the king of Babalonia."
"W-What did you say?!" The moment he said this, the man standing beside the royalties became enraged. The king's face grew shocked, and the queen was the same.
"You heard me. We came here because we know your daughter has been kidnapped. And in exchange for her safe return, the king wishes for her and the prince of Babalonia to marry. And if you refuse, she is going to be immediately executed." Christopher was right on point. Hearing all that he said brought shivers down the royalties' spines. The man beside them looked just about ready to throw a fit.
"Nnrng...and just HOW do you know all of this? Was it the guards? Did they go against my orders and tell the public about Princess Eloise's abduction?" The king asked roughly.
"No. None of them did." The boy mouthed.
"Then if that's the case, how did you find out?" The queen ordered.
"Let me show you. Azure, cast invisible on us both."
"I-Invisible?"
"Yes, master." As proof of what he was about to say, he ordered Azure to make them both invisible. In under a second, both persons faded from sight. The three royalties ahead of them all looked around the room, and saw nobody.
"B-But that's preposterous! H-How could a mere child like him have such a familiar that is capable of doing such a spell..?" The king seemed the most confused. Before long, Christopher spoke up.
"As you can see, my familiar is capable of turning us both, and others, invisible." Christopher revealed to them. "Back at the entrance to the kingdom, Azure and I noticed that more guards than usual were guarding there. Obviously, we thought something was amiss here at the kingdom...so today we decided to see what we can find out by sneaking into the castle invisibly and we just happened to catch the king during his rant, and also caught the messenger from Babalonia as well."
"Y-Yeah! Th-That's right!" Azure backed him up. "W-We did...a-and we promise that we're not the ones who kidnapped your daughter...if...if that's what you were thinking..."
Azure revoked the spell, and they were once more visible to everyone.
"What we said is true, as you can see now that I've showed you the invisibility spell." Christopher grinned at them. The royalties were taken completely aback at what they witnessed. The king's eyes showed clearly that he was excited, yet he hid it with a straight face.
"Ahem...so you're saying, you will rescue my daughter from Babalonia, and bring her back here, Christopher, Azure?"
"Yes, your majesty."
"Mmmmm." Two of the three royalties seemed hopeful of this. The queen spoke to the two next.
"Christopher, Azure. In exchange for her safe return, what is it you are hoping to achieve?"
"A-Achieve?" Both of them were baffled at her words, "What do you mean, your majesty?" Christopher questioned.
"Usually if someone proposes something like this to royalty, that have ulterior motives. Are you hoping or planning that you will gain something from this action if we agree to have you attempt to rescue her?" The queen looked at them both, sternly. Although, all her suspicion was dropped the moment she heard Christopher say,
"No. We do not have any ulterior motives whatsoever."
"W-What? H-How so?"
"Because errr...well, we just...heard that your daughter was missing so...since Azure and I don't really have anything to do right now..we just thought or...I just thought I'd help out." Christopher chuckled awkwardly. He truly didn't have any ulterior motives.
"Hm. Well, if what you're saying is true, yes, you may help us in this matter." The king approved. "Though, if you fail, you may end up in the hands of the Babalonian royalties."
"Thank you, your majesty. And we won't fail. We'll have your daughter back in no time!"
Before the royalties were able to speak, the man who stood beside the king and queen came forth.
"HOLD IT!" He yelled out. Everyone in the room was shaken by his volume.
"E-Eeekk!" Azure especially, alarmed by this, holding onto Christopher tighter than ever before. "M-M-M-M-Masterrrr.....nnrng..." Seeing how she was, Christopher leaned over, and placed a hand onto her head,
"It's alright, Azure. Don't be scared." He spoke, though he himself was frightened by the shout, and sound of the man's voice. The king and queen glared at the soldier, queen shouting at him,
"What is the meaning of this, Bertrand? Don't you see? This boy and his familiar have volunteered to rescue Princess Eloise!"
"Mother, with all due respect, I cannot stand by watching as your permit this...this filthy commoner to rescue the princess! Please, allow me instead. I shall be the one to bring her back!" The soldier, Bertrand yelled. His entire body tensed up as he shot daggers at Christopher, as well as his familiar.
"And you! How dare you spy on the king and queen! Don't you know it is a crime to observe the royal family without their knowledge?!" Bertrand marched closer to the duo, and the moment Azure noticed, she tensed up even more.
"N-No! St-Stay back! D-Don't come any closer!" She shouted, shaking her head. Bertrand paid no heed to her, he continued strutting closer to them, "I shall personally have you loc-"
"GET AWAY!!!"
"BWAAAAAHHHH-!"
"B-Bertrand!"
"A-Azure!" Immediately when Azure yelled out, an immensely powerful gust of wind overtook the room, and Bertrand was sent flying. His entire body crashed into the wall, and his armour was damaged intensely. Blood spew out of his mouth as he fell from the wall, to the ground in less than ten seconds.
"GAH-! Gasp" The impact caused an unbearable amount of pain to flow throughout his body-none like he had ever felt before.
"W-What in the name of-?!" The king and queen stood up, both speechless, and intensively afraid. They stared at Azure and Christopher with flabbergasted faces.
"N-No! I-I'm sorry I-I didn't mean t-t-to!!!" Azure yelled, she threw her arms around her master's back, and whimpered behind him. "M-Master...I...I don't think I want to be here any more...c-can we go, p-please..?"
"A-Azure..." Christopher couldn't be mad at her. Giving her a comforting smile, he spoke to her "...Sure. If you're that uncomfortable, we'll go."
"Th...Thank you..." She felt relieved. "...I...I'll go heal the knight..."
"Okay, Azure."
Christopher, the king, and the queen watched as Azure hovered over, and healed Bertrand. Once healed, Azure, in mid-air, bowed to the two rulers.
"We are very sorry for the trouble we've caused, your majesties. My master and I will take our leave." Hearing that, the royalties didn't know what to say to them. Though, the queen spoke up first,
"We understand. When that fool over there wakes up..." She pointed at the unconscious Bertrand, "...We will give him a scolding. Thank you for your time, Christopher, Azure."
"It was our pleasure, your majesty." Christopher spoke, "Oh, and don't worry, we will still attempt to rescue the princess for you. Just send for us when you're ready. We'll be at the Night-Sky inn in the meantime."
"Y-You will?" The king was relieved. "Thank you. Thank you very much. A-And we will."
"Yes." The queen nodded, and smiled, "Thank you."
The duo left the castle on a positive note, and returned to the inn, where they paid for another night, along with an evening meal. Inside the same room as before, Christopher and Azure both laid on the bed.
"Ahh...what a day...I can't believe it's even still morning..." Christopher said. He chuckled to himself, then peered at Azure, who wore a disturbed look on her petite face.
"...You alright, Azure?" He questioned her.
"Y-Yes. I'm fine, m-master." She said. She clearly wasn't. She must've still been thinking about what she did to Bertrand.
"Hey, if you're worried about what you did to Bertrand, don't be. You healed him, remember?" Christopher spoke to her. Facing her, he gave a light twinkle. "And besides, he was kind of a jerk anyway."
"Mmm..." He hit the mark. Azure faced her master, "...I know. W-Well...I...I guess I was just...scared that he might do something to us so I attacked him by accident...do you think he'll be mad at us when we return there?" She had a point. There was no telling what the knight would say to them next time they met-which was inevitable, given the situation.
"I'm not sure, Azure. The royalties said they'd give him a scolding, so...probably not. But then again, he sounded like he's pretty stubborn so, maybe I guess." Christopher replied. Once again placing a hand on Azure's head, he stroked it gently. Each time he did, her face go pink. "Don't worry about it."
"O-Okay, m-master..." Azure averted her gaze, and looked downwards. "...Thank you."
"You're welcome." Christopher couldn't help but find Azure's behaviour adorable. Haha, I've definitely struck gold in this life...she's so cute...
"Ahhh, anyway..." Christopher, taking his hand away, stretched out his arms above him.
"Master?" Taking note of this, Azure peered upward.
"...I'm pretty hungry. Let's go get something to eat at a diner somewhere." Christopher and Azure had yet to eat something for that day. At this point, it'd be more of an early lunch than breakfast.
"Oh, that's right. We haven't eaten for the day as yet." Azure grinned at him. Familiars like her didn't need to eat. But she still enjoyed eating, especially because of the various flavours each meal possessed. "Let's go, master."
Outside of the inn, Christopher looked around. He didn't have any reading skills as yet, so he was at a loss on where to go.
"Erm, y-you take over, Azure. I'm not sure what any of the signs are saying."
"Yes master." Looking around, one place stood out to the girl. "Oh, over there. It says 'The Green Gate Tavern. Open every day, morning to night'. Shall we go there?"
"Yeah, that sounds good." Azure guided him over to the restaurant.
The inside was different from the inn. Around him were many tables, about fifteen in total. All of them were round, with one side on either side. The flooring was wooden, polished, and light brown in colour. The ceiling was high, and triangular shaped. In the middle of the tavern, was a single chandelier, with five lit candles illuminating that section. Approaching the counter, the two gazed around. The counter was long, with seven stools situated by it.
"Uh, hello?" There, a single individual stood. It was a woman, with light skin, and brown, fluffy ears, as well as a same-coloured tail.
"Aren't you a little young to be here, sir?" Was the first thing she said to him.
"Erm..." Christopher wasn't sure how to respond to that. So he only shrugged it off. "...Ahaha...I-I know I'm young but..."
"I was joking. Welcome to The Green Gate Tavern. How may I help you today?"
"Oh." That took him by surprise. "Erm, may we see the menu please?"
The employee handed Christopher a menu. As expected, he had no idea what it said, so Azure translated. Christopher ordered a meal called 'Red Bean Soup' along with some water, whereas Azure ordered an omelette. After getting their meals, the duo took a seat at the counter, and dug in. The taste of the food brought an instant smile to Christopher's face.
"My God, the food here is fantastic!!!" He exclaimed loudly. "Thank you Amaterasu for bringing me here!!"
"Ahaha, I think he'd be happy to hear that." Azure replied. It looked like she was having fun as well. "Mmm...the food here definitely is good..." Azure spoke in a quiet voice. Her shyness was still there, but she spoke fluently. Eyes on her master, she continued, "...What do you plan on doing after we eat, master?"
"Not sure." He replied. "Probably we'll start looking for Roselina I guess. She should be around here somewhere." Christopher took a spoonful of his soup, and placed it in his mouth. "Mmmmmmm!!"
"I see." Azure nodded. "We haven't seen any sign of her yet. Probably she isn't in Aznos...And if she isn't..."
"We'll just look elsewhere." Christopher finished Azure's statement for her. "Amaterasu said she was reincarnated to the world with me. So we just have to keep searching. I know we'll find her eventually."
"Y-Yeah." Azure said. "Th-That's right."
"Oh, also, Azure?" Christopher met her gaze, and she immediately acknowledged.
"Y-Yes M-M-Master?"
"You said this was a human kingdom, right?"
"Yes. We are in the human Kingdom of Aznos." She remarked.
"Looks like they've got some demi-humans here to." He said, peering at the demi-human working the counter.
"Mhm. Though they are very few in numbers. If you'd like, we could go to a kingdom with mainly demi-humans residing." Azure, smiling, mouthed back at him.
"Sure." Christopher was all for it. "That sounds interesting. Where is it?"
"Nearby, to the north of here. It is the kingdom of Azelfare, home to about a quarter of all demi-humans residing in the Overworld."
"A-A quarter?!" The thought of how many people lived there blew him away. His mind was now completely set on visiting there after he rescues the Aznos's princess. "Now THAT I've gotta see!!! Bring me there, Azure!!!"
"C-Calm down, master! Y-You're going to spill your soup!"
"Hahahaha! Thanks Azure, you're the best!"
"B-But I haven't even done anything yet! Masterrrrrrrr!!!"
The meal ended quickly following. After paying, they left the tavern, they were called by a messenger the queen sent, to the castle. Knowing that the royalties were ready for them frightened Azure, but despite being afraid himself, he told her there wasn't anything to worry about.
Back to the castle, and in the throne room, they viewed the all-to-familiar scene of the seemingly prince, the king, along with the queen, in front of them.
"Ahem, it is good to see you again, Azure, Christopher." The king stated. Christopher wasn't sure what to say, but he responded accordingly.
"Likewise." He said.
"Ahem..." Next was Bertrand's turn to speak. Clearing his throat, he stared at them. "...As you may have noticed, oh commoners, my behaviour was that of a child's when we first met. I humbly apologize." Bertrand remarked, he gave them a small bow.
"Mmmm..." Christopher was able to forgive him, but Azure not so much. She hid behind her master, and in a small plus fearful voice, the girl replied, "...You scared me, y-you know."
"I am well aware of that. And I apologize. It was unbecoming of me, as the king and queen's sworn shield. Nnrng...and being so easily defeated by the familiar of a child both hurt my pride, and my body greatly...I hope you can forgive my actions." The last part didn't bother her at all. She ended up accepting his apology, but was still uncertain.
"Anyway, time to get down to business. Your majesties, I assume the reason you called for us is because you're ready for us to be dispatched?"
"Yes. You are correct." The five headed straight to business. The king looked at Christopher with a stern face as he spoke to him, "Christopher, Azure. We are well aware that you are extremely powerful mages, but do be careful." M-mages? When the two heard that, their laughter was difficult to hold back, mainly Christopher's. He wasn't a mage at all, nor was he good at the sword. It was Azure who was the one good at battle. The king continued, "Babalonia is known for it's harsh treatment of it's people, and the unjust executions. The army, despite the state of it's kingdom, is highly trained in the sword, and can use magic. If you are to go there, please, do be careful." His majesty seemed to be genuinely concerned about them, which brought a slight smile to the young boy's face.
"And please, bring our daughter back safe and sound. W-We'll even let you take her as your bride i-if you do, Ch-Christopher!" The queen exclaimed. What she said made Christopher's face turn a bit red. But he shrugged it off. He wasn't looking to get married as yet...let alone to royalty.
"A-Alright, I'll be careful." Christopher's gaze fell onto Azure, who for some reason, was pouting at him. "You alright, Azure?" He questioned.
"Y-Yes! W-Why wouldn't I be, master?" She responded.
"Erm, n-no reason..." Is she...jealous, for some reason?
"We've arranged a carriage for you outside in the courtyard for your travel to Babalonia. It will take you as far as three quarters of the road there. Please, take it. It's the least we could do to help." Bertrand said. Neither of the two were used to him speaking like that.
"We will." At that point, Christopher knew it was time to set off. He gave the royalties a deep bow, then bid them farewell. Azure did the same, then they both were escorted to the courtyard, where a horse-drawn carriage awaited their arrival.
"Oh, A-Almond?"
"Why hello there, Christopher! Azure!" The driver was none other than Almond, whom was the very first person of that world they really met. They were relieved to see him, given the circumstances. "Going to Babalonia now, I see."
"Ha, yeah." Christopher mouthed back. "Anyway, we're ready."
"Okay. All aboard!" The carriage started moving, and with one last wave over to the royalties, the two were off to rescue the princess from the kingdom of Babalonia...on their second day of coming to the world.