Ilina wakes up a little before sunrise in the small hut created by the Elder Dragon Nedonera, who she now knows is called Nina by Mizuki. In truth, she didn't get much sleep last night. Instead, she spent a lot of the night unwillingly reflecting on her conversation with Mizuki.
While the conversation ended on a positive note for them, with their relationship progressing significantly, Ilina is still reeling from some of the associated revelations.
Ilina is unsure when she started wanting to be closer with Mizuki. She previously decided that Mizuki was too mysterious to trust, but still, someone who she didn't need to fear. However, with more exposure to his gentle nature, she found herself making more concessions.
She didn't do anything truly reckless, but she knew that she wasn't treating him with the appropriate caution anymore either. Eventually, when he declared Alto as his friend last night, Ilina even felt a pang of regret, and she realized that was something she'd like as well.
Therefore, when Mizuki offered to tell her everything she wanted to know about him, she jumped at the chance. First, Ilina learned that Mizuki was not Nina's servant. Ilina had to give Mizuki credit for that one. She isn't easily fooled, and the memory of being outwitted is enough to make her smile wryly.
Next, she learned of Mizuki's strength, the scope of which shocked Ilina. She'd always assumed that Mizuki was strong, and someone to avoid as an enemy, but what she heard last night convinced her…he is a force of nature for which there is no countermeasure.
Then, she learned that Mizuki journeyed here from another planet altogether. Ilina resisted the absurdity of that claim at first, but she also knows it to be true when she looks at him honestly. His unique piercing eyes, his strange knowledge and mannerisms, his absurd powers, and his shocking level of warmth towards the other races. Objectively, his claim is no more ridiculous than him.
Still, after questioning him last night, she is convinced that he is good-natured, empathetic, and almost comically direct. He wants a better life for those around him, and when he sees an opportunity to facilitate that, he takes it. His origins or power don't change that about him.
When Mizuki revealed his frustration with their cautious relationship, a sentiment Ilina shared, and he sincerely asked her to be his friend, she was relieved to an extent that confuses her now. Why was she so invested in what he wanted with her? Reflecting on their conversation until that point, she realizes that it wasn't the first time she has perplexed herself with her reactions.
Last night, when she'd remembered what he'd said about her personality being repellent, she'd instinctively wanted to know if he still felt that way. She'd also teased him into praising her cleverness, and she solicited another declaration about his attraction to her. Hearing all his admissions together, and being suspicious of them, she'd even probed him about his lack of romantic interest in her.
Thinking back now, she blames that final decision for the ultimate shift in her perception of Mizuki.
When asked directly, he'd plainly admitted to a romantic interest in Ilina. More shocking to Ilina than the admission, there was the…relief…that she instinctively felt when she heard his admission. She realizes now that the relief was from learning that they were on the same page.
Thus, Ilina is now forced to consider how she truly feels about Mizuki. Him being human had biased such an evaluation until now, given Ilina's growing distaste for humans before meeting him. However, she no longer sees him as human.
To her, he is a unique being on Azura, and her distaste for humans is now irrelevant. So, she has considered what she'd most like their relationship to be, without any limitations, and she has concluded that her inclination isn't strictly platonic.
Ilina is extremely young by high elf standards, so romance was something she placed far into her future. She felt she had plenty of time for such endeavors later, so she wouldn't regret focusing on other interests now.
However, no sooner than she realized her romantic interest in Mizuki, she was confronted with the painful reality that his relative lifespan made their romance a fleeting option that stretched further from her grasp every day.
This was why, when Mizuki revealed Nina's jealousy of her and asked for help in resolving the matter, Ilina admitted her feelings for him plainly and refused to assist him with Nina's jealousy – she doesn't want to abandon him so hastily.
Ilina has decided that his lifespan won't dampen her romantic interest in him. When she considers Nina, she is resistant to being treated like a temporary romance, but she knows that this would also be true of Mizuki in the span of her life.
She hates the idea of giving up on him far more than she hates the idea of being an accessory to Nina. Similarly, she knows that her country won't condone her being with Mizuki, but she doesn't desire their approval.
Putting her romantic feelings for Mizuki aside, Ilina is quite pleased with this new stage in their relationship. She now considers him a friend in the true sense, and she is happy that there will be no distrust or major secrets between them going forward.
It was with that in mind that she invited him to the Elven Kingdom as her guest. She is convinced that her country did nothing to warrant the demons' invading. Even if they are invading out of desperation, her people would be empathetic enough to consider humanitarian alternatives to the war. If Mizuki can be convinced of these points during his visit, Ilina believes he will support the elves no matter the outcome.
Ilina feels a warm sensation wash over her as she remembers Mizuki's oath to work alongside her during his visit to her kingdom. Knowing how much he values her trust and remembering his efforts last night to foster that trust, Ilina can't help but appreciate him even more. Similarly, she's convinced that she doesn't just want to be friends.
Ilina smiles at these thoughts as she exits her hut in Nina's clearing. It's just after sunrise, and she feels a nervous excitement as she notices the arrival of Mizuki and Nina. Last night, Ilina offered to stay here with the freed slaves to give them the night alone together, and she hopes it makes Nina less antagonistic to her.
To Ilina's surprise, she notices Mizuki moving off in a different direction after arrival, and Nina making a beeline for her. Ilina feels a spurt of fear over how Nina may respond to learning of her and Mizuki's conversation last night.
Kluas and the others are not with her now. However, fear is quickly replaced by relief when Nina arrives in front of her calmly and makes a polite greeting.
"Good morning, Ilina. I should thank you for giving Mizuki and me the night to ourselves. Between our time to chat, and some other realizations of mine, it was very good for our relationship." (Nina)
Nina seems calm, but she is also eyeing Ilina intently, as though trying to decide on something important. Ilina is unnerved by Nina's gaze, and she also feels a pang of jealousy over the statement. However, she responds politely, and tries to gauge what Mizuki may have mentioned.
"I'm glad to hear it was pleasant for you both. I felt very indebted to you after what you did for the elves last night. So, I'm happy that it was worth it. What did you two discuss with your time away?" (Ilina)
Nina smirks, but it contains more amusement than annoyance.
"Among other things, we discussed how you confessed your romantic feelings for him. How very bold of you, elf, so soon after finding out about the nature of our relationship." (Nina)
Ilina goes stiff…she can't really blame Nina for feeling that way. Best to be honest.
"Yes…Mizuki told me that your previous hostility towards me stemmed from sensing something like that. For what it's worth, I didn't realize that I felt that way for him until last night. As for my confessing to him even after knowing about you two…I won't pretend that it made me hesitate. However, I hope that honesty also buys me enough credit for you to believe that I don't have any desire to take him from you, and I don't think I could anyway." (Ilina)
Ilina tries to express her sincerity to Nina, and Nina looks back seemingly pleased.
"Fufufu…that's true. My life is even longer than yours, and my time with him seemed infinitely precious in comparison. So, even if he didn't cast me aside for you, I felt every moment I lost with him was a grave slight. However, much has changed since yesterday. Like you, I've been convinced that no woman could ever take him from me. I believe that you don't desire that, but does that mean you'll abandon any pursuits of a romantic relationship with him?" (Nina)
Nina eyes her carefully, and Ilina feels Nina's gaze as a physical weight. Still, she doesn't see any good that could come from lying or dodging the question.
"Truthfully…no, I'm sorry. That's not to say that I intend to make a pass at him, but I'm sure I can't bring myself to abandon the option. It's become all too apparent to me how much I want to be closer with him. At the same time, knowing that he'll live only a hundredth the time as me, I'm realizing the brevity of his company and it's…crushing. I won't so hastily limit how I spend that time." (Ilina)
Ilina is struggling to meet Nina's gaze. She feels guilty for feeling this way, and she feels that Nina has every right to be angry at her words. So, she'll at least accept responsibility for her decisions.
She looks up to meet Nina's gaze, and she is shocked by what she sees. At first, Nina's expression is one of surprise, but then it clearly turns deeply empathetic. After a moment, Nina's brow becomes furrowed in thought, and she appears conflicted.
Eventually, Nina sighs deeply and addresses Ilina in exasperation.
"Tch…I can't believe I'm saying this, but…how about a deal, Ilina? In the meantime, let Mizuki and I be together in peace, and I won't interfere with your friendship. Forego any romantic advances, and then, after we've had some time, I'll allow a romantic relationship between the two of you. Still, I expect neither of you to do anything behind my back, and my relationship with him will come first. What do you say, elf, I think I'm being a pretty generous woman?" (Nina)
Ilina is in complete shock. She stares at Nina, expecting something about this to be a sick joke, but Nina just stares back curiously. Ilina responds in bewilderment.
"Nina, why in the world would you do that!? I-I…can't agree to anything until I understand that. Truly, what you're saying is completely out of character." (Ilina)
Nina nods, wearing a smug grin, then responds.
"Fufufu…you're right, I would never have considered this before today. When you mentioned feeling your time with him draining away at a speed that you couldn't bare…I understand that. I see how you care for him, and I empathize. That alone wasn't enough before, but like I said, things are different now. I've learned that…your time with him is the only one that's short." (Nina)
Nina gives Ilina a devilish grin, and Ilina feels a foreboding from the statement.
"W-What do you mean…my time is the only one that's short?" (Ilina)
Nina smiles in response to Ilina's question, then leans over and whispers in her ear. Hearing what she says, Ilina's body is paralyzed with shock…
"Fufufu…if I'm right…Mizuki doesn't age. So, I no longer mind sharing him for the few millennia you'll live…him and I have all the time in the world." (Nina)
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Blissful…that's how Nina would describe her state of mind. It's currently about an hour before sunrise, and she's lying in bed with Mizuki. Looking up at him, he's peacefully asleep.
She thinks back to the night before, after they'd returned from freeing the slaves, and the memories of him yielding to her request make her shudder happily. Their relationship has finally reached the point where she unequivocally considers him her mate.
Nina looks over at him again affectionately. In this state, she's reminded of how fragile his existence is. Not in the face of any force on Azura, but fragile to time itself – his lifespan will pass faster than she normally notices.
Saddened by the expectation, she lays her face onto his chest. As she hears his heart beating, her nerves slowly begin to settle. Eventually, she notices something else…it makes her tense.
On her original planet, Elder Dragons were the only creatures who existed without the thought of time. All other beings had natural lifespans, and they counted their days as a result. Elder Dragons also had a strange presence that could be felt by others of their kind in the vicinity. This presence was unique to them.
However, when Nina transferred to Azura, she eventually felt another presence that was similar in nature – a Greater Spirit. At the time, Nina found the similarity in their presences to be a curiosity, but lost interest quickly.
Several millennia later, Nina felt that distinctive presence again with another creature. Much like the elves, the fey have two different subspecies – fey and dark fey. Dark fey are rare, but Nina happened to stumble across one, and it exuded a similar presence as the Greater Spirit.
After some time, Nina made a realization about these encounters. In her whole life she'd only met three species that exuded that presence – Elder Dragons, Greater Spirits, and dark fey. As she later learned, these are also the only three races on Azura that don't have natural lifespans. They can't die of old age.
This is what Nina sensed from Mizuki that made her go stiff – that signature presence of a timeless species.
For a moment, she is unable to fully process the implications. How long has he been like this? Did she notice it after they mated because she felt so close to him, or did it not exist until their connection had reached this point?
Since the Dragon Bond allows each partner to acquire some characteristics of the other, she assumes that their contract is the reason for Mizuki's current state, but she also wonders if it could be a coincidence.
While such thoughts occupy her mind for the better part of an hour, she ultimately decides that she doesn't care. She'd already begun dreading the day that Mizuki would die, and she would be left alone without the option for another suitable mate or Dragon Bond. She wouldn't have regretted making it with him, but her loneliness would have been crushing.
Now, she's realizing that all those concerns might disappear. With his power and agelessness, Mizuki will be her mate for an indefinite amount of time. An immense relief floods her body. She lays against Mizuki for several minutes, smiling at her new reality.
Nina is no longer in a rush.
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Alto is currently an hour into an experience she thought she'd never have – she is flying, with Azura spread out below her in all its grandeur. Even after an hour, she hasn't tired of the view. When she thinks about it, her fate was effectively sealed a day ago, and it didn't originally include this spectacular experience.
Yesterday, she was a slave whose prospects involved being exploited by whatever human had the connections and wealth to purchase her. The recency of this possibility is enough to make her shudder. To be treated like livestock…the thought alone fills Alto with rage towards the humans. Fortunately, her situation yesterday already feels like a distant memory, a past life – her fate has changed.
Alto looks over at the man, the human no less, who singlehandedly shattered that fate like cheap glass – Mizuki. Though she enjoys teasing him far too much for it to be obvious, she's come to respect him deeply in a short time.
Mizuki embodies her ideals for the future, and her resolve to support him is absolute. Looking at him, she smiles – it's hard for her to believe that she's only known him a day. Alto thinks that Mizuki can exude a warmth so intense that his presence quickly feels safe and familiar to the people he cares for.
This played no small part in the affection Alto currently feels towards Mizuki. She isn't sure how to best describe her affection for him. What she feels isn't romantic, but more like that of being reunited with a dear childhood friend. The absurdity of this, in contrast to their first meeting, is not lost on Alto. She thinks back on when they first met.
Alto had been despairing in her cage, staring hatefully at the one human guard who was patrolling the basement that their cages were in below the warehouse. She knew they'd already been moved deep into human country, and she'd seen the dozen heavily armed guards around the warehouse as she was brought in, so she'd already accepted that rescue would not come for her.
The human patrolling downstairs had already been eyeing Alto repeatedly, and she was worried about what ideas might be developing in his sick head. Fortunately, none of the slavers or guards had forced themselves on any of them, but she knew that was only a matter of time. She'd already made up her mind that she'd rather die than willingly submit to the life they had in store for her, and she planned to take at least one of them with her.
This grim decision was the state of mind that she'd found herself in when a faint yelp came from above in the warehouse, and the other guard went upstairs to investigate it. Alto listened in, curious, but she heard nothing else after he disappeared upstairs, except the occasional strong wind. After quite some time, she heard a voice whispering from right next to her, and she was startled beyond belief.
When she turned towards the voice to locate it, she saw nothing. She soon learned that the voice was a person who claimed to be aiding them, but Alto was short on trust in general, and even less for invisible people.
To her surprise, the voice freely admitted to being human, despite knowing she'd trust the voice less, and even insisted it knew Princess Ilina. Then, it pleaded to break the slave contract that was forced on her. Alto did not trust the voice, but even a ruse that broke her contract would be helpful.
She was surprised to find that, upon her cooperation, the voice again freely shared information that should make her trust it less. It revealed how it would try to break her contract, and how it might be painful or even deadly, but it knew of no other way. Somehow, this was reassuring to Alto, freedom or a quick death, and she agreed to cooperate.
Much to her surprise, after a tiring treatment, the voice broke open her cage and she was able to leave without issue – she was free. She realized that the voice had been given human form, an adolescent male with earnest features – Mizuki.
He initially looked at her concerned, but it quickly shifted to excitement when she was able to fully stand up. Looking at him, Alto felt the conflicting emotions of disgust for his being human, and gratitude for being freed.
When he pleaded with her to once again cooperate, long enough for him to release the others, she complied. It was then she thought that he'd showed his true colors. He went between the cages doing something that made the children pass out, but he didn't free them.
Alto was deciding how to intervene when he began making a second round to break open their cages. When questioned, he freely revealed that he didn't trust Alto and the others to not do something foolish with freedom so desperately close.
Mizuki seemed deeply committed to Alto knowing that she could get truthful information from him any time she wanted. Somehow, this balance made Alto calm around Mizuki early on. He didn't ask her to trust him so much as to not worry, but he instead prioritized her feeling like she always had all the information she wanted about their situation, good or bad. This way, she at least wouldn't be pressured to act unpredictably.
Alto banished any thought of trying to betray Mizuki when he led them upstairs to the warehouse, not because of trust, but because she feared him. Every guard had vanished, like the entire warehouse was instantly abandoned, but she knew better. Her estimation of his abilities was further cemented when he instantly moved them between countries.
Learning they were isolated in a forest, and having a good appreciation for Mizuki's abilities, Alto sought him out to learn of their situation. Mizuki's apparent servant had been kindly helping with all the freed slaves and preparing shelter for them. Alto nearly fainted from the realization that this woman was an Elder Dragon and lived with Mizuki, and her apprehension over Mizuki intensified.
When she asked Mizuki what he wanted from them, he seemed confused, and listed ways to help the elves and wolf-kin. Moreover, he insisted that they owed him nothing at all. He seemed remorseful that something unsavory might have already been done to them before he could free them, and he asked if there was anything more that he could do for them.
She couldn't contain her surprise when he even offered trying to arrange hot baths for them, and the absurdity made her chuckle.
Alto had also assumed that him knowing Princess Ilina was a lie borne of good intentions. To her shock, though, he brought Alto before the princess very soon after, directly into her room. More to her surprise, the Elder Dragon seemed to confirm Ilina's and Mizuki's familiarity, and this was soon substantiated when the princess hugged Mizuki unexpectedly.
It was then that Alto began to suspect that Mizuki, regardless of what else he may be or do, genuinely would not lie to her. This was the first time she began to trust him in some regard.
When the princess questioned her about him, it was clear that she wanted to learn about Mizuki in secret. Reflecting on how much he'd prioritized honesty with her, she found that she couldn't condone doing this, even for the princess.
To her surprise, Mizuki told her that his promise to help her was not conditional on this discretion. He swore that, if she wanted to tell the princess everything about him, he'd even prepare some privacy for it, and would not hold it against her in the slightest. Hearing this only made Alto more adamant that she wouldn't be discussing him with the princess behind his back.
She was pleased when Mizuki appeared to deeply value her commitment to reciprocating his honesty. She was shocked when he proposed, not for the first time that night, that he'd happily be her friend if she wanted. She agreed mostly out of amusement, thinking that he didn't consider it a serious commitment to Alto. She also saw no real reason to distrust him to the degree of refusing that characterization.
However, Alto reconsidered what he was promising her when his relationship with the princess was discussed. To everyone's shock, he offered to reveal every secret he had about himself to the princess, if there was the chance that he'd earn her trust.
To Alto, this spoke volumes about how much trust he promised to give someone with his friendship, and how much he valued theirs in return. Alto wondered…if she was supposedly his friend now, would he just answer any question she had about him?
Alto learned from Klaus that, contrary to what she assumed, he hadn't saved Alto because of the princess. Instead, he'd been told by chance about them, and he was only asked to learn of their location and numbers.
This had apparently happened just earlier that day, and yet without hesitation he ignored those directions and saved Alto and the others, even against the princess's advice. Amazingly, where the princess had failed to even locate them in a week, he'd rescued them in hours.
Alto was in awe of Mizuki after speaking to Klaus. Not just his capabilities, but his sense of justice that drew no lines between races. At this point, she not only welcomed his talk of friendship, but she also desperately hoped that he'd been serious.
If he was willing and able to change Alto's fate so drastically on barely a notice, she daydreamed about what the world could be if his ideals were realized on a regular basis. She began to wonder…would Mizuki welcome her company and her support on his journey?
Soon after, Alto was shocked to learn of the princess's intention to bring Mizuki to the Elven Kingdom as a guest. Alto's heart sank at the news, not out of fear for the elves, but fear for Mizuki. She'd seen how he treated other elves so far, even those that were cold to him.
She knew he'd want to see the best in the elves of her country on his visit, but she also knew that they'd only bring Mizuki harm if they could. Under no circumstances could she allow that to happen.
Resolved to protect him, his kindness to all races, and the better Azura that his influence might bring, Alto made a plea to him to join his group. Though he seemed concerned for her, he eventually relented to her request.
Remembering the events of last night, and the path to her current relationship with Mizuki, an earnest smile spreads across Alto's face. As she looks over at Mizuki, soaring through the air, she feels herself burning with purpose.
No matter the personal cost, she'll help him build the brighter future that she so desperately wants.
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The morning after Zara's release, while the wolf-kin children play under her supervision, only one thing occupies her mind. Him, the human, the one who'd succeeded in protecting the children, whereas she had failed.
Her wolf-kin instincts told her that he was incomparably dangerous the minute that he'd appeared in the warehouse basement last night. If he wants their death, their salvation, or anything else…it will happen. She accepts this as a matter of fact.
Zara doesn't fear this reality like the others that meet Mizuki. Instead, she envies his ability to absolutely enforce his ideals. Part of her calm derives from feeling that it would be pointless to worry about Mizuki, much like the pull of the planet itself. He is a fundamental force of nature in her mind, and she only feels curiosity and acceptance towards that.
The other source of her calm is Mizuki's demeanor. She's noticed that he does nothing suddenly or without clear reason, and so far, he's only aided the wolf-kin and elves. Though neither is aware, Zara shares a variation of Mizuki's 'person-first, race never' way of evaluating people.
It isn't because of some high-minded sense of morality, but because she simply feels that such biases lead to errors in judgement. So, she does not share some of the elves' intense distrust for him.
She is driven by a desire for the prosperity of her people. Now, she sees acquiring power like Mizuki's as the easiest way to achieve it. She imagines acquiring it herself, and the idea of controlling, manipulating, or otherwise trying to influence Mizuki never crosses her mind. Such disingenuous methods conflict with her nature, and she also does not think so little of his intelligence.
These principles drive the calm and cautious demeanor that Zara exudes when Mizuki first approaches her. However, while her calm remains on the outside, Mizuki's presence soon disrupts her inner calm.
This is not because Zara fears Mizuki, but because his behavior doesn't match her expectations from his strength. This miscalculation is likely an artifact of her wolf-kin upbringing, and she notes as much to herself afterward.
First, when he approaches, he has one of the elves in tow, the one who Zara watched shadow and assist him all last night. From Zara's perspective, the elf's continued presence is unnecessary for him, yet he seems to appreciate it. Initially, Zara assumes that he's taken the elf as a concubine.
Then, there is his behavior towards her and the children. First, he simply offers to return them to their very distant village, without requesting anything in return. He also shows respect to Zara, which she feels undeserving of.
Finally, he seems invested in giving the children a sense of control over his actions. He constantly asks Zara and the kids' permission for everything, and she gets the distinct impression he'd truly yield to their refusals. Not only do they have no ability or will to refuse anything of him, but there is also no apparent value for him in being so deferential to them.
However, she can't help but notice that the kids have already shed their fear of Mizuki, and they are intent on helping with whatever he asks. This is the first time she suspects that she may have lessons to learn from him.
Zara is once again shocked by Mizuki during their flight to the wolf-kin village. The elf he brought is not a concubine. Apparently, she requested to join his group after meeting him, and he agreed. What's more, he insists on providing her with her own lodging and food, getting her clothes and equipment, and training her to be stronger. Zara cannot wrap her head around this, but she is also interested.
As she continues to listen, her greatest shock comes in his discussion of magic. She learns that, according to him, magic tests determined him to be incapable of magic. Moreover, he insists that it is because even the elves with their superior magic knowledge have fundamentally misunderstood magic.
The elf is skeptical, but Zara believes him. If the sum of this world's knowledge produced the conclusion that Mizuki, the strongest being Zara has ever met, is a weakling, they must truly be ignorant on the subject.
She decides then, if she truly seeks power to help her people prosper, continuing to observe Mizuki is the quickest path to it. Alas, Zara has no idea what she can offer him in return. So, she asks him what warranted it with the elf.
She is pleased to hear that Mizuki doesn't consider only combat strength. He also values clarity of purpose, honesty, level-headedness, and people who just make his time more entertaining. More than anything, Zara feels he values people with resolve and flexible minds.
These last two values are something that Zara feels she excels at, and she agrees that people like that are rare and valuable. It is one of her few points of ongoing frustration with the other wolf-kin.
They are noble, sure, and she thinks those principles have value. However, they are also obstinate. They rely too much on their own innate physical strength, and concepts like tactics, weapons, and coordinated training are resisted by them.
Zara quite appreciates the elves that occasionally come to their village to offer aid. However, the wolf-kin repeatedly refuse to learn from them about large-scale agriculture, carpentry, blacksmithing, magic theory, or anything else that doesn't already seem necessary for their day-to-day lives.
This grates on Zara's nerves. After all, she feels it is obvious that innate physical strength is not the only kind of power. The elves are physically weaker than wolf-kin, and yet the humans don't dare antagonize them openly.
Ultimately, Zara fears that if the wolf-kin and other demi-humans don't change this way of thinking, as the other races like humans continue to progress, their very freedom might be at risk. As quiet settles over their long flight, Zara considers these dangers, and the opportunities that Mizuki's company might offer.
She commits herself to joining his party, like the elf, and she begins planning how she'll make her appeal to him when they arrive in her village. A quiet confidence settles over Zara, and an excitement as well. She has a clear path to her goals, she feels, and plenty of resolve to follow it. All that is left is to enjoy the journey and learn all she can along the way.
The thought produces a rare smile on her.
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Alto, Zara, and I arrived back at Nina's old nest some time before noon.
Honestly, there's lots for me to do, and I'm not sure where to start. I need to take the elves back, but only Nina can fly that many people at once. It will probably take multiple days to reach the edge of the Elven Kingdom.
Then, there's the issue of our visit to learn about the impending demon invasion. Do we just drop the elves off and return later for that? Do we go ahead and enter the Elven Kingdom after bringing the elves? What do I do about Alto and Zara when we make the trip?
If I delay the trip to address these things, what do I do with the elves? Having this many decisions to make really troubles me.
I look around at the clearing to locate everyone, and I can see Nina walking towards me leisurely. The elves, including Ilina and Klaus, appear to be enjoying some food near the lake – they're all smiles.
I'm happy to see that, because they've had a rough time recently. To my surprise, Nina is wearing an amused expression and addresses me with a chuckle when she approaches us.
"Fufufu…I assume that this one also wants to join us. Do I have that correct, wolf-girl?" (Nina)
Zara nods politely and responds, but she doesn't seem afraid.
"That's correct, my name is Zara. Mizuki and Alto already gave their approval, but Mizuki made it clear that I needed yours as well. Can I join you, as Alto did?" (Zara)
Nina acts like she's thinking it over carefully, but I can sense amusement from her. Yeahhh…Zara's probably fine. Nina makes a big sigh, signaling her 'decision', then responds.
"I suppose that's fine. Mizuki, I'm drawing the limit at three people, though, so choose the next one carefully. Fufufu…if your current trend keeps up, we'll start to look like your harem." (Nina)
The harem comment catches me off guard. The makeup of our group changed so fast that I hadn't noticed, but…Nina's right, it's all women. Zara seems unfazed, however, and responds to her acceptance quickly with a smile.
"Thank you, I look forward to it." (Zara)
Alto seems less oblivious to Nina's harem comment, but she doesn't take issue with it in the way that I expect.
"Actually, I don't care if we look like Mizuki's harem. I'm sure we wouldn't take in someone troublesome, but for now I have no interest in worrying about a man's advances towards us on a regular basis. Mizuki is fine – he's so disinterested that I'm not even sure he knows I'm a woman." (Alto)
I roll my eyes at Alto. She somehow managed to make that sound like a compliment but feel like an insult. Can't let that slide.
"Don't be ridiculous, Alto, you look great for a hundred-year-old lady." (Mizuki)
Alto narrows her eyes at me.
"Mizuki, I'll have you know that I'm only 98, and quite youthful by elven standards." (Alto)
Zara picks this time to make her opinion known as well.
"I'm neutral about the gender and race of anyone else that joins, and I couldn't care less if strangers think I'm part of Mizuki's harem." (Zara)
Nina is watching this conversation play out with great interest, nodding along as though she's moderating a debate. I can still sense that she finds it hilarious, though, and is not actually taking it seriously. Time for me to put a stop to this.
"Alright, well, I'm not interested in taking in other people anytime soon. Not like we did with Alto and Zara, anyway. Moving on, we have other matters to discuss with the elves." (Mizuki)
Nina seems disappointed that her fun has been ruined, but she doesn't object. We make our way over to the elves, who have now finished eating and are noticing our approach.
Ilina smiles and waves at us, and I return the gesture. Glancing at Nina…she's still calm, huh? I guess she really did bury the hatchet with Ilina. That's very mature of her.
As we arrive near the elves, Ilina is the first to speak.
"Mizuki and Alto, welcome back! How was the trip, and why is this wolf-kin girl with you?" (Ilina)
Alto is the first to speak, and she's brimming with enthusiasm.
"Princess Ilina, it was incredible! Flying is the only way to travel, I have decided! You simply must try it!" (Alto)
Ilina is equally entertained by Alto's response, and we both chuckle at her. Zara, seemingly the only one who registered or cared about Ilina's other question, interjects.
"I'm Zara, and I'll be joining them on their adventures like Alto." (Zara)
Hearing Zara's neutral reply, Ilina glances at me with a surprised expression. In response, I shrug and nod, like 'that's just how it went'. Ilina rolls her eyes and changes the subject. What's that about?
"Good to meet you, Zara. Alto, I'm glad you enjoyed the experience. I suspect I'll get to fly before too much longer. On that note, Mizuki, I appreciate that you've promised the elves to return them home. I'm sure it will be much faster than Klaus and me taking them. When and how were you planning on making the trip?" (Ilina)
The elves are looking at me with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Best to just be straightforward. I think I've decided what my course of action should be, and they may not like it. I turn to the elves with a warm smile and address them politely. I know some of them are still wary of me.
"Eh…about that. The trip to the Elven Kingdom will be significantly longer and more complicated than the one to the wolf-kin village. There's also the issue of whether to just stay there as Ilina's guests like we discussed. I was wondering if you'd all be willing to wait another day while we sort these things out and prepare for the journey? I'm happy to pay for you all to get new clothes and have better lodging and food during that time. The place I had in mind even has warm baths." (Mizuki)
Ilina looks shocked at my statement. The elves behind her have gone still and silent. Alto is barely containing her laughter at my side.
"Mizuki, you're saying you'd take them back as soon as tomorrow!? What's more, are you offering to put them all in that expensive inn that we stayed at!?" (Ilina)
I just look at her dumbfounded. She's borderline yelling…why? I look at Alto, confused, and she smiles at me and shakes her head before responding.
"Mizuki, that trip normally takes a couple of months and quite a bit of planning and funds. They probably thought that you needed multiple weeks to prepare, and they were going to have to scavenge for food in the woods in the meantime. So, you offering to take them tomorrow and put them up in an inn so fancy the princess liked it…they probably think you're nuts. Which, you are, by the way." (Alto)
After hearing Alto's explanation, I look at Ilina with a questioning glance. If someone can nod their head sarcastically…she does. Well, fine, excuse me for trying to be accommodating.
Jokes aside, though, this is good news for me. I direct a huge smile at the rest of them.
"Oh, that's great news! In that case, if you don't mind waiting a few days for us to settle some things, then that would be best. I'll still set you up at that inn, though. I'll also tell Ilina where a general store I like is that you can get whatever you need. If that works for everyone, I can go get three extra rooms ready for you now and teleport you straight to them! One room for Alto and Zara, and two for the five elves. Does that work?" (Mizuki)
The next few moments are filled with silence and more dumbfounded expressions…until Alto begins laughing hysterically. Ilina shakes her head at me in exasperation, then responds with a heavy sigh.
"Yeah, that's fine, Mizuki. By the way, now that we're friends…can I ask where you're getting all this money? I thought it'd be rude before, but now I just really have to know." (Ilina)
Nina sends a thought message quickly.
[Please be careful with this, Mizuki.] (Nina)
I smile at Nina and nod, and she seems to relax. Then, I turn to Ilina and respond with a smirk.
"Don't worry, I'll tell you later. One of the things we'll be doing before leaving for the Elden Kingdom is some training. That'll include you teaching me the spells that you promised. We can discuss it then." (Mizuki)
Ilina seems confused by my series of statements, but she nods her agreement regardless. I notice Zara from the corner of my eye and she's…smiling!? It's not even subtle, she looks like Alto when flying is involved.
I don't think I've seen that level of emotion from her before, what's she so excited about? Oh well…if she's happy then it's fine.
I let everyone know that I'll be back soon, then teleport to our room at the inn. I reserve three additional large rooms for two nights, cough up my gold, then take the keys. The receptionist gives me a very weird look about the number of rooms, but she says nothing. I guess they pay enough to keep your mouth shut about strange requests here.
Afterwards, I start at the room furthest from Nina's and I's and enter it with the key. Then I teleport back to Nina's nest. The elves are startled by my sudden emergence.
"Alright, first group is up! Please decide amongst yourselves who the three rooming together will be." (Mizuki)
After a moment, three elf women step forward. One looks nervous, presumably because of me, but the other two seem somewhat excited. I hand their key to the closest one, then address them.
"Okay, there you go! I'll answer any questions you have when you see the room. Gather around so I can teleport you, please." (Mizuki)
The three girls squeeze in close to me, and I teleport them back to their room.
When we arrive, they quickly scatter. Jeez…still scared of me, huh? After all this? Oh well, you can't buy people's trust, I guess.
"Okay, so this room is all yours. The inn has a kitchen, and they'll make food for you and bring it to your room if you order it at reception. Please feel free to do that, and I'll cover the cost. I'm sure Ilina and Klaus will come stay here as well, and they can help you get cloaks to hide your ears if you want to leave the room. Elmesia is safe for elves in theory, but there are bad humans everywhere. If I'm around, I won't let anyone touch you, but I won't be around all the time." (Mizuki)
One of the elves smiles at me warmly and gives her thanks, and the other two nod their agreement. Alright, on to the next.
I make my way to the next room, then teleport back to Nina's clearing with the key. I take the last two elves to their own room, then get them settled. After, I make my way to the final room, closest to Nina's and I's, and return to the clearing one last time. Upon arriving, I address everyone.
"Alright, so the last room is going to be Alto's and Zara's. Klaus and Ilina, can I assume that you'd like a lift back to the inn as well to get yourselves a room?" (Mizuki)
Ilina smiles gratefully, then responds.
"Yes, that would be great, thanks Mizuki." (Ilina)
I nod my acknowledgement, then gesture for everyone to gather around me. I teleport us all to Alto's and Zara's room. When we arrive, everyone spreads out and forms a circle to talk.
"So, what's the plan now?" (Ilina)
Everyone looks at me expectantly. Right…
"Well, if they're up for it, I'd like to take Alto and Zara to get all their clothes, equipment, and weapons. If we have time, I'd also like to stop by the adventurer's guild with them and get them registered. If you want recommendations for yourself…check on the elves and help them get the things they need. If they want to leave their rooms safely, then getting them some cloaks would be good." (Mizuki)
I also tell Ilina and Klaus the rooms that the elves are staying in, so they can go meet with them. They thank me, then leave the room with their cloaks donned.
I turn to Nina, Alto, and Zara.
"So, I think we should go shop for your clothes first. Demi-humans roam the city, but an elf will raise eyebrows. Elmesia is supposed to be safe for all races, and the slave trade isn't legal here, but I'm still a little worried for Alto. I think getting her a cloak just in case is a good idea, but I'll support whatever decision she wants to make about her anonymity. Alto, what do you think?" (Mizuki)
Alto looks like she's thinking about it carefully for a while, then she speaks up.
"I'd like to stay more under the radar for now. Would you mind taking Zara for clothes and equipment shopping without me, and getting me a cloak and basic set of clothes like what Ilina wears? In addition to whatever equipment you wanted me to get, of course. I'll take a bath in the meantime, and you can meet me back here before weapon shopping?" (Alto)
I look at her in surprise, that was surprisingly frank of her. Asking for favors like that isn't something I'd have expected her to do. Nonetheless, I'm not bothered by it.
I smile back at her and nod my agreement.
"Of course, Alto, please enjoy your bath! You've earned it. Zara, are you ready to go or would you like a bath first, too?" (Mizuki)
Zara shakes her head in response.
"No, I can bathe later tonight. Let's go." (Zara)
I nod my acknowledgement, and we make our way to Zevy's shop.
¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬
Zevy doesn't appear to be in his shop today, and a young woman is running the shop instead. There are several other people in the store, and some of them give Zara a quick glance, but she isn't really drawing that much attention. Good.
I flag down the young woman running the shop for Zevy and explain our situation.
"Hey there, we're actually here to get several items for my friend. Could you help her pick out whatever clothes she wants, and then she'll also need two each of travel packs, canteens, coin purses, all the shoes of her liking, and cloaks for someone her size?" (Mizuki)
The shopkeeper nods politely and takes off with Zara, and Zara nods to me as she disappears. I smile over at Nina…she's just staring at me patiently.
[Thanks for helping me with all this, Nina, I hope you know that I appreciate it.] (Mizuki)
I sense surprise followed by affection from Nina and she smiles back at me.
[Fufufu…I'm glad to hear that you appreciate me, Mizuki. In that case, I think I've been very generous about your time with other women today, hmm? So, I'd like you to make up for it later. What do you think?] (Nina)
Nina looks at me with her eyebrows raised.
[Honestly, alone time with you sounds good to me. We'll make a night of it, just let me know if there's anything else you want to do together.] (Mizuki)
I sense surprise from Nina, followed by satisfaction. I roll my eyes internally at her confidence, though I don't think it's misplaced. Before she can do anything else, I follow up with her.
"Alright, today's business first, though. Can you help me get the clothes that Alto wanted, and her other…necessities?" (Mizuki)
"Fufufufu…are you embarrassed to shop for her clothes and undergarments, Mizuki?" (Nina)
What a ridiculous question.
"Of course, I am! There are other women in this shop, and they'd give me weird looks!" (Mizuki)
Nina shrugs and leads me off with a smirk to another area of the store. She's kind enough to pretty much handle everything, only confirming what kind of pants and top Alto wanted. After a few minutes, we've finished, and we make our way over to Zara. She looks mildly annoyed.
"Hey, Zara, you seem annoyed. Any particular reason?" (Mizuki)
Zara gives me a surprised glance, then nods and responds with a neutral expression.
"Yes, most of these clothes don't suit my needs. I have no interest in dresses, and shorts won't be practical in a fight. There are only two types of pants I'd use. I'll be taking those." (Zara)
So, she was hoping for more combat-oriented gear? That's not what this place is for.
Zara finishes up her shopping, and I hand over a few gold coins to the shopkeeper. We head back to the inn room where Alto is and bring her what she asked for.
"So, how do you feel, Alto?" (Mizuki)
I direct the question at Alto with my back turned. She'd bathed by the time we got back, but she needs to change into her new clothes. I hear a deep sigh of relief from Alto.
"I'm dressed now, Mizuki, you can turn around. To answer your question, I feel great, thanks! The clothes you got for me are perfect. Now that I'm free of the grime and clothes from my time as a slave, I feel like myself again." (Alto)
I turn to look at her, and I am surprised by how happy she looks. In her new outfit, she basically looks like a shorter, blonde version of Ilina.
She dons the cloak that we got her, and she takes some time to adjust it. I figure this is a good time to give everyone some basic reminders since we have weapons shopping and guild visits up next.
"Hey, Zara and Alto, I'd like to remind you that my abilities are a secret. As far as any humans or the guild are concerned, I don't even have magic. More importantly, your origins should remain a secret. If we need a backstory for you, just follow my lead if I'm around. If it's just the two of you, I trust Alto to make something up and update me later. Obviously, the rest of the freed slaves, the wolf-kin, and eventually the Elden Kingdom will know that I have a decent amount of power, but I intend to act like Nina's subordinate." (Mizuki)
Zara looks confused by this.
"Mizuki, what is the point of this deceit? Especially in the Elven Kingdom later? Between Ilina and the other elves, I doubt you'll be able to hide that you're strong." (Zara)
I nod at her, that's a fair question.
"The elves are going to barely tolerate my presence, if I'm lucky. They'll know I'm strong, though not how strong, and they may fear me and act irrationally. To address this, we'll say I'm subordinate to Nina. Ideally, they'll assume she's stronger and evaluate our group based on her, who they have less prejudice against. If they knew just how strong I was, and considered me the leader, it would likely cause greater issues. Alto, do you agree?" (Mizuki)
Alto nods solemnly, but she also has hints of surprise and respect in her expression. Zara looks briefly thoughtful, then nods as if accepting the explanation. Good. I smile at them warmly.
"Well then you two, let's go get your weapons! The dwarf you're going to meet is a good guy, truly, so please be nice." (Mizuki)
They both nod their assent, and we make our way towards Percivil's shop with Nina in tow.
When we arrive, his shop is once again empty and he's nowhere to be seen. However, after a moment he makes his way to the storefront. Seeing me, his eyes light up excitedly, then seeing Alto and Zara he raises an eyebrow.
"Oi, Mizuki, welcome back! I see you've brought some new ladies with yah, aye?" (Percivil)
"I've always appreciated your eye for detail, Percivil. You're correct. These two will be joining our adventuring party, and we were hoping you'd be able to set them up with whatever weapons and armor matches their needs and preferences. Can we count on you again?" (Mizuki)
Percivil flashes a wide grin, with a rare cockiness bleeding through.
"Aye, yah can. Do yah ladies have any suggestions or preferences for equipment? It'd help to know your magic class and power level, too." (Percivil)
Zara steps forward with rare excitement and answers his question first.
"I'm Zara, and I'm alteration class with a power level around 2 ½. I specialize in physical enhancement. As for equipment, I'm partial to the idea of a short sword with light armor that doesn't inhibit my movements in close combat. However, I'm not accustomed to such equipment, so I'm also open to suggestions." (Zara)
Alto politely nods to him and answers after Zara.
"I'm Alto, an elemental class with a bit over 3 power rating. I can use all elemental subtypes and would like a dagger that can channel raw magic for its physical enhancement. I defer to your expertise for suggestions of armor and other weapons." (Alto)
Percivil nods his head and strokes his beard as they speak. He seems to be taking their requests quite seriously. He looks at me with a mischievous grin.
"Mizuki, yah know…your requests last time really got my blood pumping, so now I have a couple new items I'm really proud of. Are yah budget or quality shopping today?" (Percivil)
Oh?
"Prioritize quality please." (Mizuki)
Percivil's eyes glitter with anticipation, and he nods to me excitedly.
"Aye, let's start with the young blonde lass first. I think we should get yah extra light armor that can channel raw magic into its physical enhancement, and two 25 cm daggers that can do the same. I don't recommend other weapons." (Percivil)
As he speaks, he pulls out leather pants that are around Alto's size, and something that just looks like a long-sleeve shirt made of thick, dark cloth. He pulls out two daggers that look similar to Nina's. Ah…so, he managed to make more, huh?
Alto takes the equipment from Percivil to inspect it, and Percivil moves on to Zara.
"Now, for the wolf-girl who likes swords. I'd recommend extra light armor like your friend's, but yours will channel raw magic into minor healing instead of physical enhancement. As for the sword…I recommend this masterpiece of mine." (Percivil)
Percivil goes into his back workshop and carries out a short sword like he's holding a baby. The sword has a low-profile hilt and narrower blade, to the point of almost resembling a katana. However, the sword's blade is made of an unknown metal that is as black as obsidian. Not taking his eyes off the sword, as if still admiring it, Percivil continues.
"This thing channels your raw magic power into a certain attribute on the sword…lightning." (Percivil)
The shit? Zara appears by Percivil's side to study the sword intently, and even Alto and Nina go to observe the sword. Nina has some choice words.
"Fufufu…say, dwarf, you weren't holding out on me last time, were you? Lighting is quite the sneaky enchantment to put on a weapon." (Nina)
"Hahahah…no, yah saturating my prized daggers just lit a fire in this old man to aim higher." (Percivil)
Nina is looking at Percivil with more respect than I've ever seen from her around 'weak' creatures. Alright, I think I know what we all need.
"Say, Percivil, if you wanted to lock up your shop for five minutes, I'd bring you with us to test that sword somewhere safe for your research purposes. How does that sound?" (Mizuki)
Percivil's eyes go wide, and he goes to lock the front door. He looks back at me.
"Aye, that sounds wonderful! Are yah going to be doing that weird magic thing where yah disappear?" (Percivil)
I nod at him, and gesture for everyone to gather around. Seeing the others, Percivil follows suit. Then, I teleport them all to my training spot in the woods. When we arrive, everyone steps away and Percivil's eyes go wide again. I address the group.
"Percivil, welcome to my little training ground. We've been teleported tens of kilometers into the forest, so there should be no issue. Zara, you want to give the sword a shot?" (Mizuki)
Percivil's head seems to be swimming with the information I gave him, and he absentmindedly hands the black sword to Zara. She eyes it with a covetous look, then walks to the center of the clearing.
She focuses, and after a moment the blade starts to glow a dark blue. Eventually, crackles of electricity begin running around the blade in earnest, and Zara takes a few practice swings. As she does, arcs of lightning can be seen flying off the sword. In a fight, it'd be a menace to defend against for other close combat specialists.
I glance at Percivil, who seems to be thoroughly enjoying the show. I can't help but chuckle at the sight, and I'm glad he takes so much joy from his work. We really benefit from it.
After a few minutes of practicing for Zara, I call everyone back to me and teleport us back to the shop. Well, that was worth the trip for sure. I address Alto and Zara.
"Well, what do you two think? Are you happy with Percivil's recommendations?" (Mizuki)
They both look at me wide-eyed and nod their heads. Good, I hope they respect Percivil's skill as much as I do now. Percivil looks at me with a smirk, but also a hint of gratitude.
"Okay, Percivil, you've had another stellar showing here, so what do we owe you for the lot?" (Mizuki)
Percivil laughs and responds with a layer of sarcasm.
"Aye, I suppose that after the show that lass treated me to, I could part with everything for only 40 gold coins." (Percivil)
As always, I don't haggle with Percivil. I just pay the man what he's worth. I nod at him appreciatively, and I pony up the coins. Alto stares at me in bewilderment over the amount of money, but I just shrug at her in return.
"Alright! Alto, Zara, go ahead and change into your armor in the back if you want, and whenever you're ready we'll go get you signed up at the adventurer's guild." (Mizuki)
They both nod and head to the back of Percivil's shop to change, and afterward we make our way to the guild.