Magnus finds solace within the haunting confines of the Grim Ruins, preparing himself mentally and physically for the forthcoming confrontation with Shinso. Meanwhile, the remaining seven members of his group embark on a journey toward the capital. Amidst this crucial time, Shinso and Kaeya find themselves engrossed in an earnest conversation, aware that a new, unwelcome problem is unfurling before them.
With a measured tone, Shinso broaches the subject. "You know the Sacred Forest, right?" he inquires, his voice laden with an undercurrent of concern.
Kaeya, his countenance betraying a flicker of amusement, responds, "You mean what remains of the once Sacred Forest? Of course, I am acquainted with it. But what troubles you?"
Shinso's voice grows quieter, his words punctuated by a tinge of gravity. "We dispatched several scouts to investigate the forest," he continues, "Yet, regrettably, none of them returned, except for a solitary individual."
A touch of somberness colors Kaeya's voice as he muses, "Casualties, then... That is what you want to say, I presume."
Shinso nods, his expression reflecting a shared understanding. "Indeed," he affirms, "We recovered the bodies of some of our fallen scouts. It is worth mentioning that these retrieved corpses exhibited an eerie fragility, akin to glass. It bears a resemblance to the body we discovered during the Paradise incident..."
Kaeya, caught off guard by this revelation, falters momentarily. "Could this be a manifestation of Nobu's powers?" he queries, grappling with the implications. "But such a thing seems impossible."
Shinso, assuming a pensive stance, replies, "Personally, I harbor doubts in that regard. Moreover, there is another intriguing aspect to this situation. The lone scout who returned alive bears similar cracks upon his body, rendering him incapable of utilizing his once-potent magical energy."
The weight of their discoveries hangs palpably in the air, a heavy shroud of uncertainty enveloping them. Shinso presses on, revealing another vital piece of the puzzle. "We suspect foul play, an orchestrated theft of sorts," he divulges, "And our suspicions veer towards Warhammer as if he has a hand in these unsettling events."
Kaeya's voice carries a hint of resignation as he raises his gaze toward the ceiling, contemplating the weight of the name Warhammer.
"I have a feeling we'll become intimately acquainted with this name," he murmurs, acknowledging the inevitability of its recurrence. He pauses for a moment, collecting his thoughts before continuing, "For me, Mr. Shinso, it's clear that you didn't share this information with me solely for the sake of informing me," Kaeya asserts, his tone growing serious. "Please, be honest with me."
Shinso, slightly taken aback by Kaeya's perceptiveness, leans forward and places his hands on the table. His hesitation gives way to a resolute expression. "Her Majesty..." he begins, "She requests your presence in order to investigate the unfolding events. You need to understand that it is merely a request, an offer. You are free to decline, Mr. Kaeya."
Kaeya stands up, his hands slipping behind his back as he paces toward the window. A glimmer of pride dances in his eye as he speaks. "They are rapidly growing stronger," he muses aloud, "and for the brief time I had the chance of watching them, I took pleasure in witnessing their growth."
His voice grows somber, and a tinge of sadness tinged his words. "Perhaps it wouldn't be a loss if they were to no longer see me," he admits, turning to face Shinso with a slight nod. "But despite that, I am undeniably proud of them."
Shinso, his brows furrowing with concern, interjects, "Don't speak as if it's your end. You're not going to perish," He adds, wishing not to lose another cherished comrade.
Kaeya's reply carries a sense of uncertainty, laced with determination. "Who can truly say?" he ponders, his shoulders shrugged before summoning his katana. His hand grips the hilt tightly, and a flicker of determination illuminates his face. "As a sacred soldier of the Fire Kingdom, I, Kaeya, shall venture into the Sacred Forest and give it my all!"
"After all, every teacher has an image to uphold in the minds of their students."
Meanwhile, as the group strolls along the path toward the capital, a sense of tranquility envelops them; the gentle ambiance is interrupted by a sudden question that pops into Nobu's mind, causing him to speak up. "Hey, guys," he begins, his tone lighthearted, "do any of you happen to know the name of the capital?"
With a nonchalant shrug, Reina offers a response. "It's Kapital," he states matter-of-factly, his voice devoid of any hint of mischief.
A chuckle escapes Nobu's lips, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Oh, I know that it's the capital," he remarks, a playful tone present in his voice. "I meant, its name. what's its name?"
This time, both Reina and Katsu turn to Nobu, their expressions tinged with skepticism. Their words carry a synchronized cadence. "It's Kapital," they utter in unison, their assertion clear.
Nobu, perplexed, abruptly halts his steps, causing Sayuri perched on his back to drum her tiny hands upon his head. "Stop messing with me," he implores, his voice tinged with a mix of confusion and exasperation.
Reina, frustration evident in his voice, steps closer to his befuddled friend. "We already told you the name, and it's freaking Kapital!" he exclaims, his tone marked with a hint of irritation.
Nobu raises his hands defensively, a bemused expression etched upon his face. "Why are you getting so worked up?" he inquires, genuinely puzzled. "Just admit that you don't know the name and stop teasing me, buddy!"
Yagami can't help but chuckle at the lighthearted banter between Nobu and the others. "You always bring a lively energy to the group, Nobu," he remarks, a genuine smile gracing his lips. And Nobu, grateful for the compliment, simply nods, unaware of the underlying reasons behind Yagami's words.
"Whatever," Yagami sighs, his amusement evident. He then turns his attention to Reina, concern etched in his features. "Oh, by the way, Reina, are you feeling better now?" he inquires, genuinely interested in his friend's well-being.
Reina's response comes with a nod, his left arm gently moving up and down in affirmation. "Yeah, I think I'm doing better," he confirms, a hint of relief in his voice. "All my wounds have fully healed now, thanks to your help, Yagami."
However, a perplexed expression crosses Reina's face as he continues, his gaze fixated on the palm of his hand. "However, something strange is happening," he adds, his voice tinged with curiosity. "I don't know why, but my pure power seems to be diminishing somehow. On the other hand, my magical energy is growing stronger."
Sayuri, perplexed by this peculiar phenomenon, interjects with a hint of confusion. "Your magical resource is shrinking while your magical energy is intensifying?" she echoes, seeking clarity, "Well, that's certainly weird."
Reina nods in agreement, turning to face Sayuri. "Indeed, it's quite strange," he concurs. "But as long as I continue to grow stronger, I don't mind the peculiarities."
"Oy! Oy! Guys, look!" As the group absorbs this curious revelation, Ash suddenly bursts with excitement, his actions animated as he points in a particular direction. "Guys, over there!" he exclaims, his voice filled with exhilaration. "Look, it's Kapital!"
Their gazes follow Ash's pointing finger, and sure enough, a sprawling cityscape materializes in the distance, its majestic presence beckoning them forward. The sight of the grand capital city sparks a renewed sense of anticipation and adventure within the group, setting their hearts alight with the possibilities that await them within its walls.
With a newfound spring in their steps, the group quickens their pace, their excitement building with each passing moment. The enigmatic wonders and challenges of Kapital await them, ready to unveil a tapestry of new experiences and trials.
They draw closer to the city, their determination swelled, and a collective sense of purpose envelops them. However, Nobu's gaze is diverted by a particular inscription adorning the entrance—a piece of writing etched onto the wall that read, "Welcome to Kapital."
In a moment of epiphany, Nobu's eyes widen, and a gasp escapes his lips. His eyes take on a vibrant orange hue, reflecting the sheer joy of finally understanding. "Oh! So Kapital is the name!" he exclaims, his voice brimming with elation. The realization washes over him, filling his heart with a profound sense of accomplishment.
Meanwhile, Reina's irritation simmers, growing stronger with each passing interaction. His right-hand clenches tightly, rising to the level of his face as he mutters, "I want to choke that boy!" His frustration at Nobu's momentary lapse only intensifies, testing the limits of his patience.
Observing the unfolding scene, Satomi can't help but be impressed by Nobu's audacity and resilience. With an air of admiration, she replies, "Well, we still need that boy." Her words acknowledge Nobu's significance, recognizing the unique role he played within their group dynamic.
As they continue their approach toward the grand castle at the center of the city, a sense of awe envelopes the group. Yagami can't help but gasp in admiration, his voice filled with wonder. "Woah!" he exclaims, his eyes taking in the magnificent sight before them. "This place is absolutely amazing!"
Ash's excitement bubbles over, causing him to keep jumping as he walks. Impatience tinges his voice as he eagerly expresses his anticipation. "Man, this is so cool!" he exclaims. "I can't wait to see our Queen!"
"I know, right?" Sayuri shares in Ash's enthusiasm, raising her right hand toward the sky as she speaks, "Oh yes, it's going to be such an interesting moment!" she agrees, her voice brimming with excitement. "Right, Nono? Right?"
"Yeah, I don't really care..." Nobu, however, seems to have something else on his mind. He casts his gaze downward, placing a hand on his stomach before lifting his head to address his friends. A hint of innocence colors his voice as he speaks. "I just want to eat some chocolate," he admits, his craving evident.
Satomi chimes in, her smile genuine as she plays along with the conversation. Her closed eyes convey a sense of warmth and amusement. "Well, maybe we don't need him that much," she remarks, slowly pulling her sword out of the scabbard.
Reina, however, interjects, placing a hand on Satomi's and gently guiding the sword back into its scabbard. "No," he asserts, his voice carrying a touch of fondness, "I think we still need him after all."
Sayuri can't help but protest, her voice filled with playful exasperation as she reaches into the pocket of her skirt. Withdrawing a chocolate bar, she extends her hand toward Nobu's face, offering him the unexpected treat. "Nono, you're impossible, you know that?" she teases. "Here, take this. I was going to give it to you anyway."
A genuine smile adorns Nobu's face as he accepts the unexpected gift, swiftly unwrapping the chocolate bar. "Thanks, Pipsqueak," he expresses his gratitude, his voice laced with warmth. "You're the best!"
As Nobu savors the first delectable bite of the long-awaited chocolate, his senses are momentarily captivated by its exquisite taste. However, his overwhelming happiness is abruptly interrupted when Katsu, who's walking ahead of him - suddenly comes to a halt - as he quickly kneels down to retrieve something from the floor.
In an unfortunate turn of events, Nobu collides with Katsu, emitting a soft "Ow" as their collision causes the precious chocolate to slip from his grasp and fall to the ground, shattering the momentary bliss.
"Oh, I found a Chornopenny, guys!" Katsu exclaims, his voice filled with excitement as he holds the coin aloft. "Talk about good luck!" However, his jubilation quickly dissipates as he notices the lack of response from his friends. Turning to face them, he's met with a scene of exaggerated drama unfolding before him. Nobu stands frozen, his empty arm still outstretched as he stares blankly at the fallen chocolate. The others wear expressions of deep sympathy and regret for Katsu's unfortunate timing.
"Ummm..." Katsu stammers, pointing toward the chocolate on the ground as a solitary bead of sweat forms on his forehead. He seeks reassurance from his companions, uncertain of the consequences he'll face. "I'm doomed, aren't I?"
"I guess we know where this is going," Sayuri nods, an innocent glint in her eyes as she playfully continues drumming on Nobu's head. "So... Yeah, you're doomed."
As for Nobu, he gently lifts Sayuri from his back and places her down, his bracer transforming into the form of a sword. With a calm expression on his face, he slowly turns toward Katsu, pointing the sword at his friend. "You're doomed!" Nobu declares, his eyes closed as he delivers his threat.
A smile spreads across Katsu's face as he embraces the impending chase. "Yeah, I'm doomed," he agrees, his voice filled with exhilaration. With a burst of energy, he swiftly takes off, running for his life as he tries to evade his friend's retribution.
"Hey, Nobu!" Katsu protests, his voice filled with desperation as he continues to run from his friend's relentless pursuit. "I am sorry for your loss, please forgive me!"
"Nooo!" Nobu vehemently replies, swinging the sword at Katsu once again, his determination unwavering.
"I'll get you another one. So please, just stop!" Katsu pleads, his breath ragged from the relentless chase.
"But one of my children is dead because of you!" Nobu declares, his voice laced with exaggeration as he increases his pace, refusing to accept Katsu's offer of reparation.
"You were going to kill it anyway," Retorts Katsu, stating the obvious, his own exhaustion becoming evident.
Meanwhile, the rest of the group watches the spectacle unfold, walking at a leisurely pace behind the two friends, trying to make sense of the chaotic scene before them.
"Why does Katsu always end up being chased by a crazy demon?" Satomi wonders aloud, crossing her arms and tilting her head to the side.
"I don't know," Reina shrugs, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Maybe it's just part of the plot?"
"Hey, Reina! Reina!" Sayuri protests, tugging at Reina's clothes as she looks up at him with her innocent, pleading expression. "I don't want to walk anymore. Can you give me a lift, please? Pretty please?"
"This group is so unreal," Yagami remarks in his thoughts, a mix of disbelief and exasperation in his eyes, as he places a hand over his head before sighing, while Ash is still excitedly jumping in the background.
Finally, Nobu manages to catch up to Katsu, and without hesitation, he begins slapping his friend's face until Katsu succumbs to unconsciousness. "This is what you get for hurting one of my own! Got it?" Nobu declares, still shaking the fallen boy with a hint of exaggerated rage.
Lost in his thoughts about the chocolate he had just lost, Nobu fails to notice that they have reached their desired destination. Before them stands the magnificent castle, adorned with a long red luxurious carpet leading up to its grand entrance. A captivating light radiates from the gate, adding an air of mystique and enchantment to the scene.
"Katsu..." Yagami calls out, rushing to his friend's side. "Katsu, are you okay?"
Meanwhile, Nobu's attention is diverted by the sight of the castle and the intriguing light emanating from it. His focus shifts, leaving behind his previous concerns.
"Hey, look!" Ash exclaims, pointing toward the approaching figure emerging from the radiant glow. "Someone is coming!"
In unison, everyone except for Nobu, Ash, and the unconscious Katsu, bow reverently. Nobu, instead, takes a step closer to the lady, his dark-blue eyes fixated on her with a hint of fascination.
"She's kinda cute," Nobu comments, nodding in approval as he glances at Ash, "Her cuteness resembles Pipsqueak's somehow..."
"No... I can't keep looking at her," Ash murmurs, closing his eyes and shielding his face from the dazzling light with both hands. "My eyes are starting to hurt from all this brightness."
"Knock it off, both of you!" Satomi intervenes, her voice firm as she swiftly delivers a fist to the heads of Nobu and Ash, leading to Nobu's usual "Ow" cry. She then guides their heads down into a bow, correcting their manners.
"I apologize for their rudeness, your highness," Satomi speaks sincerely, her tone filled with remorse. "Please accept our heartfelt apology!"
"Your... Highness?" Nobu stammers, slowly raising his head to meet the lady's eyes. "Does that mean she's the queen?"
The woman responds with a gentle smile, her hands gesturing for them to rise. "I apologize for the misunderstanding. I am not the Queen; I am simply a humble guide who will escort you to her majesty."
Nobu chuckles lightly, brushing the back of his head, "Umm... You're lying, your presence says otherwise so..."
A mischievous glint sparks in the woman's eyes as she draws closer to the group, raising the hem of her white dress. "You're right; I was lying," she confesses, her voice filled with playfulness. "In truth, I am actually your Queen! I am Queen Ashide! Did I shock you?" Her eyes widen, displaying a captivating blend of blue, green, and yellow hues.
Silence falls upon the group as they process this revelation, refraining from uttering a single word as they gaze at the Queen of their kingdom. She appears petite and mischievous, an unconventional embodiment of the highest position in the land. Yet, her bright smile exudes warmth and affection that are difficult to ignore.
"You're the Queen!" Nobu gasps, his eyes igniting with bright orange hues as he stands beside Ashide. "It's so nice to meet you!"
"The pleasure is mine," Ashide responds, raising her hand to playfully tousle Nobu's wavy hair. "Your hair is so fluffy, you're absolutely adorable!"
"Oh, you're cute too!" Nobu's cheeks flush with delight, and he can't help but reciprocate the affectionate gesture. His hand gently squeezes Ashide's cheeks, their warm interaction filling the air with laughter and smiles, while the others watch this exchange with a mixture of surprise and bewilderment, unable to comprehend the dynamic unfolding before them.
"I have two theories to explain the scene we're witnessing," Satomi begins, her voice betraying her astonishment. "First, Nobu's energy possesses an infectious quality that affects those around him."
"Second, the Queen herself is an extraordinary case... A lost case herself."