My party and I gathered at Nina's hot spring the morning after the reception. I brought us here to catch everyone up on last night's events, and to discuss the meeting with the nobles and royal family later, in private. I've already told Nina about promising this area and the hot spring to Alara…it took a lot to calm her down.
I want to avoid another Alara situation with Tessa, so I've decided to nip it in the bud at the meeting later using a little scheme.
"Okay, does everyone understand the plan?" (Mizuki)
Nina, Alto, and Zara nod.
"Mizuki…the spell you mentioned performing! Does it use…what I've been learning about lately!?" (Alto)
Alto glances at Zara nervously part of the way through her question – presumably realizing she shouldn't say anything about radiation or photons. Still, Alto's eyes are glimmering with excitement, and I stifle my laughter. I smile at her warmly.
"Yes, that's correct Alto. I'm glad your studies are going so well!" (Mizuki)
Nina and Zara look confused, but Alto looks self-satisfied. Zara seems to sense what just happened.
"Mizuki, I've been so focused on developing my sword skills that I haven't bothered asking, but would it be possible for me to start studying the strange magic you know along with Alto?" (Zara)
I feel a surge of guilt. My bargain with Azazel severely limits how much I can teach her, and I'm sure she's felt a little excluded as a result. She's also the only one that doesn't know my full history. I see Alto giving me a sympathetic look.
"Zara, about that…I need to explain. It's okay for me to teach you how to improve your current spells and new alteration class spells. However, I can't help you to the degree that I have Alto, but it's not because I don't trust you. How about we have a meeting later today, and I'll answer every question of yours that I possibly can? I want you to feel valued as a member of our party." (Mizuki)
Zara raises an eyebrow, and seems to think it over for a moment, then she smiles and nods.
"I appreciate that, thank you. There are questions that I've wanted to ask you for some time now." (Zara)
I smile appreciatively at Zara. I'm glad she's being understanding about it.
"Wonderful, so back to business. Alto, are you sure you're okay taking the brunt of that spell? Remember, we're fundamentally bluffing, so we need someone we trust to be the guinea pig to convince the nobles that lying to us is impossible." (Mizuki)
Alto nods excitedly.
"Yes! It's the next one I want to learn after invisibility anyway, so as long as you don't injure me too much it's fine!" (Alto)
That I can manage, I've gotten better at using it on less sturdy people. I nod my agreement to Alto. Nina, however, looks confused.
"Mizuki, I believe I understand your reasons for all the theater, but I don't understand why Alto needs to be the one to demonstrate the fake spell in action. Could you not just let one of the nobles volunteer, so it's more convincing?" (Nina)
"Ah, right, that's because I can't actually be completely certain whether they're lying. They might try to test the fake spell with really obscure truths or lies, and then we'd be found out." (Mizuki)
Nina's confusion intensifies.
"Why not just have me tell you when they are lying through a thought message?" (Nina)
Does she think she's some kind of expert on deception?
"Uhm…I'm sure you're a decent judge of character, Nina, but we need to be absolutely sure whether it's a lie. It can't be a hunch." (Mizuki)
Nina smirks at me.
"Mizuki, spotting deceit is no hunch for a dragon. When most races lie to us, we feel discomfort in our very core, which is why dragons dislike lying so much. There are a few exceptions, like Greater Spirits and powerful dark fey, that could perhaps lie to us without being noticed. Similarly, you were an exception for reasons that I'm not quite certain of, but our Dragon Bond makes it hard for us to deceive one another now. However, I'd know for sure if a regular human or elf lied in my presence." (Nina)
Holy shit…is this for real? That's a huge game changer. Honestly, it would explain her strange willingness to trust people on occasion, and her intuition about Ilina and Cara.
Alto is looking at Nina skeptically.
"In my opinion, I'm much funnier than Mizuki. Is that true, Nina?" (Alto)
I roll my eyes. I don't need magic dragon ESP to know that Alto thinks she's hilarious.
"Fufufu…no, you are lying." (Nina)
Alto's eyes go wide in shock. After my initial surprise, a huge grin appears on my face as I look at Alto. She's avoiding my gaze.
"Oh, Alto? Is there something you want to tell me? We need to know the results of your test, you know." (Mizuki)
"Ehem…they were inconclusive, but I think it's fine to trust what Nina says about her ability." (Alto)
Oh, I am so going to remember this…that lie is not even remotely convincing. Still, she's right about trusting Nina.
"Alright, then, slight change of plans. We'll let the nobles volunteer to test the spell if they want, and we'll proceed as planned with Alto if there are no takers. Nina, I am very excited to learn about this ability of yours. It's going to be incredibly helpful going forward." (Mizuki)
Nina directs the same smug grin at me as before. She's earned it though. Looking around, I see that everyone agrees with our plans. I flash a huge grin to them.
"Well then, let's go scare Tessa Uril and Jorah Abel onto the straight and narrow!" (Mizuki)
¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬
Later, we are in the roundtable conference room with the royals and nobles, with the same seating arrangements as before. The one change in the roster is that Alara stands behind Elira instead of Ilina. The second private announcement to the nobles is about to begin.
Elira clears her throat nervously, and I can see that she's dreading this meeting.
"Ehem…thank you all for coming. I'm sure today's discussion will be challenging, so I'll get straight to the point. The topic for this meeting is the royal succession. It has been decided internally that Ilina will replace Alara as First Princess, and heir to the throne. Furthermore, Alara will be stepping down from her place in the royal family and creating a new noble house." (Elira)
Shit Elira, you're just going to jump in!? There's not a single person in the room that isn't stunned silent. As Elira predicted, the first one to say something is Tessa.
"Queen Elira, I'm sorry, but this is absolutely preposterous! Alara has been declared as the heir to the throne for over a millennium, while Ilina has only even been alive for a few decades! Mere decades! More importantly, Alara is your firstborn, and a fine example of what a Queen should be, while Ilina can't even defend herself. The people will never accept that!" (Tessa)
Helena rolls her eyes at Tessa.
"Oh, spare us your elitist drivel, Tessa. All the noble houses get to pick their own heirs however they see fit, and you're the only one that still cares about firstborns. Why should the royal family have to follow your lead? Moreover, by 'fine example', I'm sure you just mean that Alara shares your elitist attitudes. It's well known that Ilina is infinitely more liked by the people of our kingdom than Alara, and despite her age she's a keen intellect." (Helena)
Damnnn…Helena is the most savage of the nobles, and she might even be my favorite. Cara's fun to talk with, but nothing beats Helena's entertainment value. Tessa directs a furious glare at Helena, but she's cut off by Jorah. He sounds surprisingly calm.
"Lady Tessa, I'm sorry to say that I agree with Helena. I'm not concerned whether our next Queen is the firstborn, just that they're qualified. I quite admire Ilina. She's the one responsible for securing the Elder Dragon's aid to resolve this recent crisis, and there's no denying that she's a capable intellect and beloved by our people." (Jorah)
I can't hide the shock from my face…I never expected Jorah to just outright tell Tessa off, even politely. I assumed he was basically her lackey, but I guess they just really bond over their hate for humans.
"Our differences aside, I agree with Jorah. In almost every regard, Ilina would make an excellent Queen. However, Tessa does make one immutable point – Ilina's too weak to be our Queen. Even the wolf-kin know that projecting strength for a leader is important, and when it comes to combat ability, Ilina might be the weakest person in this whole city. Despite her magic power, the only spells she's shown any affinity for are item storage and appraisal. They are exceedingly rare, but useless for combat." (Darak)
There's a round of begrudging assent from all the nobles, and Tessa seems to calm down, feeling supported. That won't last, though, because they're all operating under false assumptions.
Alara politely steps forward.
"Queen Elira, may I address the nobles?" (Alara)
Elira looks annoyed, and is skeptically eyeing Alara, obviously hesitant to give her blessing. I send a private thought message to her.
[It's okay, Elira, I think that's a great idea. Trust me, please, you won't regret it.] (Mizuki)
Elira looks surprised, then seems to reach a decision.
"Very well, go ahead, Alara." (Elira)
Alara gives a polite nod, then turns to face the nobles. She's calm, and she looks at each of them in turn evenly. Tessa is staring at Alara with anticipation. Hoping she'll defend herself, no doubt.
"If you're concern is about Ilina's strength, then I can remedy it. In fact, the succession was decided in a duel between us, with stakes we both knowingly agreed to. I was easily beaten, and by the rules of our wager am stepping down to the position of noble. I do it willingly, and without any lingering resentment. I suggest you all support our decision." (Alara)
Tessa is dumbfounded, and Elira shares her expression. She's looking at me like I cast a puppet spell on Alara or something.
"Alara, are you serious? Ilina beat you in fair combat? I'm sorry, but I just find that hard to believe. Your abilities are exceptional, and even rival those of Queen Elira. In a few centuries, you'll likely surpass her." (Tessa)
"Yes, I'm telling you the truth. Ilina learned new combat spells on her travels and is no longer the weakling you describe. It's not my place to elaborate on her abilities, but even my mother and I together would be no match for her. If every elf in this room tried to bring her down right now, I still don't like our chances. As far as I can tell, there's never been a more formidable elf in all of Azura's history." (Alara)
Wow…she's really laying it on thick. I don't know the others' specific abilities, but my assessments tell me that she's probably correct. Other than me, Ilina is the only person who can use those cheat-level gravity and teleportation spells, and the rest of the world has never even heard of them. Plus, her magic power is absurd, by normal standards. The nobles are stunned silent for a time, then Helena begins cackling.
"Hehehehehe…oh my, that's something I never expected. I don't even need proof to know it's true. I've never much liked you, Alara, but I know you'd never publicly overestimate Ilina's strength. If you're saying this much, she must be truly monstrous now. If Ilina's that strong, and Alara herself is suggesting that we make her Queen, then any further discussion is pointless. Ilina is First Princess, and none of us have any right to contest it." (Helena)
Tessa sits down in her chair with a heavy thud, obviously defeated on the subject. Elira takes advantage.
"Thank you for your input, Alara. Well then, can we consider this matter closed? You all submit to this decision?" (Elira)
There's a round of assent from the nobles, including a quiet and begrudging one from Tessa. I'm feeling quite pleased with how unexpectedly easy that was…Alara's help was crucial, so it's a good thing we are on better terms now. Then, one noble speaks out before the session concludes.
"Just a moment, if you would, my Queen. I certainly support your decision, but I had some questions about the events surrounding this succession change. Several elements don't make sense to me." (Darak)
If it's Darak, I have no doubt that I'm about to be implicated. Elira seems to share my apprehension, but she has no choice, and she nods for him to proceed. The other nobles turn their attention to him, full of curiosity.
Cara seems curious as well, but she's also glancing at me nervously. Ahh…so she had similar suspicions but kept quiet in case it would be a problem for us. I'll remember that.
"Thank you, my Queen. I'd like to say that I and every other noble are desperately curious about Ilina's new abilities, but Alara makes it sound like they're not to be discussed, which is your right. So, I first want to explicitly request that we be made aware of her new abilities whenever you're willing." (Darak)
"Of course, I'll leave that decision up to Ilina, and I have no intention of circumventing her privacy. All I'll say is that the spells she learned were rare to the point of being unknown to us elves, and that she requested they be treated as royal secrets for now. When her will changes, I'll suggest that the nobles be made aware." (Elira)
Darak nods his approval.
"Thank you, I look forward to it. As for my other questions, I want to know what instigated this change in succession. Alara said it was a duel, but what possible reason could she have had for agreeing to such a wager – what did she stand to gain? She was already the heir, and her loss carried a steep cost. Furthermore, you said that Lady Nedonera's group was included in these meetings because the topics were relevant to them. Were they involved in this?" (Darak)
The other nobles turn to us curiously, and Tessa and Jorah are staring at me with suspicion. Damn…I was so close, but at least this way I'll get to reveal that fake spell. Elira sighs deeply and nods.
"Yes, your suspicion is correct Darak, and the answers to your questions are related. Mizuki, would you care to explain everything to the nobles? I'll interject as necessary, and so can Alara, but I'm sure they'll want to hear this from you." (Elira)
I nod and step forward with a polite smile.
"Of course, Queen Elira. As you all may have noticed, my Lady graciously trusts me to discuss matters on her behalf, so I was the primary point of contact with the royal family during early negotiations about the demon crisis. During these discussions, Princess Alara was displeased with me being human, and suspicious of me. So, against her Queen's explicit orders and my Lady's warnings, she tried to have me murdered in my sleep." (Mizuki)
Shock registers clearly on all the nobles' faces and they turn to face Alara. She looks embarrassed, but she doesn't flinch from the attention.
"Let me clear any doubts…I'm ashamed to admit that what Mizuki says is true. My distaste for humans is no secret, and this used to apply to him as well. I loathed his presence in the negotiations, and repeatedly ridiculed him against Queen Elira's orders. Moreover, I considered it an existential threat to our people that a human held such sway with an Elder Dragon. The very first night of our negotiations, I sent my royal guard to assassinate Mizuki." (Alara)
Helena and other nobles look to Alara in bewilderment.
"Alara…actively trying to kill the most trusted subordinate of an Elder Dragon, right under her nose, after flaunting your hatred for that subordinate only hours earlier…the only existential threat in this situation was your stupidity." (Helena)
Tessa remains quiet, but Jorah pipes up.
"Princess Alara…truly, I sympathize with your concerns more than you know. However, I'm inclined to agree with Helena. At minimum, the brazen way you went about such a thing endangered our people. In truth, even I would never attempt to assassinate Mizuki right here in the palace, especially against my Queen's explicit orders." (Jorah)
That's…more restraint than I expected, but it sounds like he might be willing to try and kill me against orders if it was with a less brazen strategy. Cara is looking at me bewildered and nervous.
"Mizuki, may I ask…in your opinion, what consequences for Princess Alara's actions would you have considered to be consistent with our policies at the time?" (Cara)
Everyone else looks confused by Cara's question, but Elira just grimaces. Yeah, she knows how I feel about people being punished.
I bow respectfully.
"Certainly, Lady Cara. I don't believe there is precedent for royals, and I don't think humans have any official rights in your country. However, I was a royal guest of the Queen, and the top-ranked subordinate of my Lady, who is essentially a queen of her own domain. Naturally, I value my life just as much as yours, and I believe the most just analogy is one elven noble trying to murder another. In such a situation, your policies dictate that Princess Alara would become a forced laborer with no standing or be executed." (Mizuki)
Cara's face goes pale, because now she knows that's exactly the punishment I expect for Tessa if she steps that far out of line. The room is dead silent, until Jorah and Tessa erupt.
"You arrogant human, how dare you compare yourself to an elven noble!" (Tessa)
"Of all the preposterous ideas, you should be executed immediately for even suggesting the murder of our Princess!" (Jorah)
Elira is quick to cut them off.
"Silence! Both of you! Mizuki, would you please elaborate for them before this gets out of hand?" (Elira)
"I believe that Queen Elira is referring to the fact that I never officially requested such a punishment, even at the time. I was merely asked by Lady Cara to retroactively speculate on applying your existing policies to a situation without precedent. It's not my personal wish, now or then, for Princess Alara to face such severe outcomes. I consider the matter settled." (Mizuki)
Tessa and Jorah seem to calm down some but are still glaring at me menacingly.
"Still, despite Mizuki's personal opinions, he is human and was not guaranteed rights under our policies. Forcing Princess Alara into a wager with such high stakes was therefore unwarranted, and I advise that the consequences of it be overturned." (Tessa)
Helena snorts at Tessa's comment.
"Don't be intentionally dense, Tessa. Princess Alara disobeyed multiple direct orders from her Queen. That alone is enough to warrant punishment within our policies." (Helena)
"Helena is correct. Furthermore, I did not force Alara into the combat wager with Ilina, and I even tried to oppose it. I opposed every severe punishment, even at the risk of angering Lady Nedonera, and even though I'd given Mizuki my word before that I'd reprimand Alara appropriately. So, when Mizuki proposed the combat wager as a diplomatic solution to his attempted murder by Alara, and Alara insisted on taking part in it, I couldn't reasonably refuse." (Elira)
Tessa is fuming and seems to be thinking hard on a response. She clearly recognizes that her prior argument for reinstating Alara won't work. Alara steps forward again and speaks.
"Lady Tessa, I suggest that you quit trying to overturn this outcome. I unilaterally refuse to be reinstated ahead of Ilina in the royal succession. Even if I were reinstated in the royal family, I will not be the next Queen." (Alara)
Tessa looks at Alara in shock, but Darak is the first to ask a question.
"Princess Alara, may I ask why you agreed to such a wager at the time? You stood nothing to gain, and you clearly believe at present that you're no match for Princess Ilina." (Darak)
Alara nods her head sadly.
"First, the royal family was not aware of Ilina's strength at the time. I still believed her to be completely defenseless. Second, Mizuki offered to face me in a deathmatch if I beat Ilina. He can't use magic, so I considered it a virtual execution. He even convinced Lady Nedonera to pledge that, if he died in the deathmatch, she would never retaliate and would resolve the demon crisis." (Alara)
All eyes turn to me, and Darak looks especially thoughtful. Helena begins laughing hysterically.
"Hahahahahaha…oh my, so in other words, Mizuki played every one of you for a fool, eh? Fufufufu…to think that you orchestrated an entire succession change with no power of your own. Tell me, Mizuki, how long were you planning that?" (Helena)
"Lady Helena, I'm sure you give me entirely too much credit. I merely acted in each moment, proposing what I thought would be best for everyone and serve my Lady's interests. Everyone's actions were their own – I didn't force anything." (Mizuki)
Helena snorts in disbelief at my response, and Tessa tries to jump on the opportunity.
"My Queen, even Helena is convinced that Mizuki tampered in our very line of succession – there can be no greater crime. Surely, you believe that he should be dealt with accordingly?" (Tessa)
Helena interjects first.
"Fufufu…what crime, Tessa? Even if I thought that Mizuki knew exactly how the whole thing would play out from the day he arrived, it wouldn't be a crime. He never stepped one toe out of line. Princess Alara's destructive actions were repeatedly met with generous offers from him. She eagerly accepted those offers, and this was the outcome. We have no right to contest any decisions we've heard today. Can anyone convincingly argue otherwise?" (Helena)
There is a telling silence from the nobles. Elira capitalizes on it.
"Excellent…can we finalize Ilina's rise to First Princess, and Alara's new noble house? If so, we will proceed with the royal announcement tomorrow, and the celebration of Ilina's new role." (Elira)
There is a round of exasperated assent from the nobles. Tessa sits in angry silence for several moments, but eventually gives her begrudging assent as well.
"If that is my Queen's decision, so it shall be. However, I note that today's events have only demonstrated just how much of a threat to the Elven Kingdom the human Mizuki intends to be. His hostile actions towards Princess Alara are alarming. I hope it's clear that he needs to be dealt with, and you all keep that in mind when we discuss the permanence of his presence tomorrow evening." (Tessa)
My time to shine.
"I believe that you're mistaken, Lady Tessa, I'm sure you can point to no hostile actions from me. If fact, even after all the events that have transpired, Lady Nedonera and I have already offered to aid Princess Alara in her new life as a noble. It is one of two requests I wished to make of Queen Elira today." (Mizuki)
Everyone's eyes snap to me in surprise, even Elira's.
"Mizuki, are you serious!? You truly want to lend Alara your aid after what she's done!?" (Elira)
"Of course. As I have said before, I don't hold grudges, and I think it's important to be reasonable to those that are friendly to you. Alara's initial transgressions were counteracted by her exit from the royal family, so that matter is settled. By contrast, she's been generous in her interactions with us recently, so we offered to help her develop any new territory without strings attached. Her desire to protect the elves seems sincere, so I only see it helping the kingdom in the long run if her territory flourishes." (Mizuki)
Everyone in the room is stunned, except Alara and my group.
"Fufufu…what Mizuki says is true, and I confess that I was just as shocked at first. I no longer think he's the threat that I once considered him, for what it's worth. This was my opinion even before he offered me his aid, and it's only clearer now." (Alara)
Elira is practically dazed, but she manages to follow up.
"Uhm…Mizuki, what were the requests you wanted to make of me?" (Elira)
"Oh, that's simple enough, and I doubt anyone here would object to it. If you're going to grant a portion of the undeveloped western lands to Princess Alara, could you grant a specific area that she asks for? I recommended a particular area to her that I think would help her a lot at the start of development." (Mizuki)
"Well, yes, consider your request granted. Honestly, I was considering giving her the option to choose her territory anyway. You said two requests, though, what's the other?" (Elira)
"Ah…that. Well, you see, as Lady Tessa has just made very clear, not all the nobles intend to tolerate my presence here. This is perfectly reasonable to me, and if everyone wants me gone, or one of the nobles removes me in accordance with your policies, I have no issue leaving. However, I'd like to avoid another situation like with Princess Alara – scenarios where someone attempts to remove me or members of my Lady's party through more unsavory means." (Mizuki)
Elira grimaces.
"Yes…I'm sorry again for that. Obviously, everyone here is already aware that I forbid such actions. If compelling evidence is brought forward that they knowingly violated my orders, they would be punished in accordance with our country's policies. Did you have a more specific request?" (Elira)
Elira looks a little nervous, so I think she knows what I'm getting at.
"Yes, Queen Elira. The fact that I have no official rights under your policies was already brought up as a justification for ignoring hostilities against me. My request is simply that you declare exactly how I, as a royal guest and subordinate of Lady Nedonera, will be considered under your existing policies if I'm the victim of any future hostilities in your country. This way, there can be no argument of the appropriate actions thereafter." (Mizuki)
Tessa is quick to try and intervene.
"Queen Elira, there is need for you to yield to such a demand. Your word is law. If anyone in Lady Nedonera's party is unwilling to submit to elven law, then they are not being forced to stay in our country and can leave." (Tessa)
Elira is obviously irritated by Tessa's comment.
"Tessa, it was a request, not a demand. Furthermore, Mizuki made no specific request about what I decree, just that I make my wishes clear and official to everyone here. I think it's a reasonable request, and I intend to grant it. I'm glad you pointed out that my word is law, because that's my decision, and I won't hear any argument from any of you. You've been given quite a lot of voting rights lately, but not with this. I demand silence while I deliberate." (Elira)
Everyone falls silent obediently, and Elira appears deep in thought for several minutes. Eventually, she sighs deeply and makes her wishes known.
"From this day forward, I decree that any approved travelers to the Elven Kingdom will, regardless of race, be given the minimum rights of an elf in the specific cases of personal victimization. Furthermore, due to their immense power and influence, I henceforth equate every Elder Dragon to a ruler of a foreign country. As such, and when in our country with royal approval, their escorts will be equated to nobles in the specific cases of personal victimization. My word on this is final, and it will be publicized tomorrow." (Elira)
I see Tessa fuming, and Jorah too, but they say nothing. The other nobles look surprised, and a little wary, but not upset. I give a deep appreciative bow to Elira.
[Thanks, Elira, I'll consider that a personal favor that you're welcome to cash in on later. I know it's a hassle for you.] (Mizuki)
I see the traces of a satisfied smile on Elira's face.
"Thank you for decreeing my allowances under your country's laws, Queen Elira, I greatly appreciate it. So, to clarify, if I am the victim of assassination attempts again, and the culprit is evident, he or she would be forced into labor, exiled, or executed, even if they were a noble? By contrast, if I were to violate any of your policies myself, even minor ones, you are free to punish me however severely you see fit?" (Mizuki)
Elira smiles and nods.
"That's correct. In your example, though, if any of the nobles here try to assassinate you, there will be only one punishment – execution. To attempt such a thing after all my warnings warrants only the most severe consequences. However, the evidence will need to be incredibly clear in such a case – something where their guilt can't be doubted. I will not be punishing a noble so severely on mere suspicion." (Elira)
I glance at Tessa, and she's smiling maliciously at me. I think I know why, too, and it makes me excited.
"I understand, but I suppose that is somewhat troubling. Unless a noble were to send their personal guard to assassinate me, like Princess Alara, it would be difficult to be sure of their guilt. An assailant could lie about the person behind their crimes or claim they were independent, and any hired mercenaries may have no knowledge of their employer." (Mizuki)
Elira nods, and Tessa directs a smug grin at me.
"That is our Queen's law, Mizuki, and you are free to leave if it concerns you." (Tessa)
Elira looks annoyed and concerned by Tessa, but her hands are tied. That's okay, we prepared a fix for this.
[Alright, Nina, you're up.] (Mizuki)
I sense a rush of excitement from Nina, who's been exceptionally quiet throughout this meeting.
"Fufufu…discerning guilt would be no concern, Mizuki. I could always use that spell, and I'm sure Queen Elira would approve of its use if there were a demonstration now. I am happy to do this for my loyal subordinate if it would set your mind at ease." (Nina)
I act surprised and deeply grateful, then bow to Nina.
"My Lady, you humble me with your generosity!" (Mizuki)
The nobles are now sufficiently confused, as is Elira, and Tessa is eyeing me suspiciously.
"Mizuki, what is Lady Nedonera referring to?" (Elira)
"Ah, as you've seen before, Elder Dragons possess many unknown abilities and blessings. Even among other Elder Dragons, my Lady is quite exceptional. You see, she knows and can perform a spell that makes it impossible to lie in her presence, which she is offering to demonstrate to you. With that spell, you could simply ask suspected perpetrators about their crimes and there would be no doubt of their guilt or innocence." (Mizuki)
Elira's and Dargo's eyes go wide in surprise, and shock registers on Tessa's face.
"Ridiculous! There is no such spell in existence! If there were, it would be known to elven scholars! There is no point in even entertaining this absurd claim!" (Tessa)
"Oh, like hell there isn't, Tessa! There's no way I'm about to pass up a magic demonstration by an Elder Dragon, especially one for a completely unprecedented spell." (Helena)
Helena is now leaning forward expectantly. Elira stares at me suspiciously, no doubt wondering if this is a ploy. It is, but a semi-honest one!
"Mizuki, I think we would very much appreciate such a demonstration. Great Dragon, do you mind?" (Elira)
Nina shakes her head, then rises from her seat and smiles. Then, she begins her 'incantation'.
"Oh, divine oracle of light! Come forth, and grant dragon's punishment to those who would deceive me!" (Nina)
That's my cue. I focus on forming a roughly one-meter-wide sphere of my magic in the space above the table, then have it generate white light by altering radiation from the air molecules inside the sphere. It's that same glowing ball spell Nina loved so much at the hot springs.
Everyone is staring at the ball of light, transfixed. Even without what we're about to do, I'm sure they've never seen anything like it. Cara runs her hand through it cautiously.
"There's nothing there…no heat or fire, it's just light. Remarkable!" (Cara)
Helena is watching intently.
"Great Dragon, how does this spell make it impossible to lie?" (Helena)
"It is simple, if a question is asked in its presence and answered, this light will turn green if the answer was truthful. If the answer is a lie, it will turn red, and the deceiver will be punished with a nonlethal force that causes pain. These actions are beyond my control – I can only activate and remove the spell." (Nina)
I focus on narrowing the wavelength of the light ball spell, so that green light pours out, then revert it back to white light after a moment. Nina did just answer a question after all. There's a round of surprised gasps from the nobles.
"Queen Elira, Lords and Ladies, would anyone like to volunteer to test out my Lady's spell? You can use whatever information you want to test lies and truths, so long as you don't mind it being revealed." (Mizuki)
Helena is quick to volunteer – she stands up.
"Someone ask me what my favorite color is!" (Helena)
I stifle my laughter and oblige.
"Uhm…Lady Helena, what is your favorite color?" (Mizuki)
"Blue." (Helena)
[Lies.] (Nina)
That crazy elf. I shift the light ball to red temporarily, then activate a gravity spell on Helena, and she's slammed to the ground forcefully. Everyone looks on in horror. I release the gravity spell after a moment, and Helena climbs shakily to her feet and begins rubbing the bruises on her arms.
"Gah! Damn that hurt! So, this thing is for real, huh?" (Helena)
"Fufufu…Helena, what is your favorite color?" (Darak)
Darak gives Helena a teasing look, and Helena just glares back at him, then glances nervously at the light ball. Tessa is staring at me with a murderous glare – I think she knows that this isn't a bluff anymore, and what it means for her plans to undermine me.
"I'm not answering that, Darak." (Helena)
Is she embarrassed of it? That's funny for someone as direct as her. To my surprise, Alara steps forward next.
"Mizuki, you may ask me whatever questions you want." (Alara)
Elira looks surprised, then turns to me curiously. I'm surprised, too, but this might be fun. I already trust her not to lie to me, but I have some idle curiosities. This is as good a time as any.
"Very well. Let's start with…why are you volunteering?" (Mizuki)
Alara directs a surprised glance at me.
"I…want you to trust me going forward. This spell seems like a good opportunity to help with that." (Alara)
[Truth.] (Nina)
I cycle the light ball green. Everyone looks between Alara and I in confusion.
"Well, I already trust you, sort of. I understand your nature and feel confident about what your actions will be – it doesn't concern me. Next question. We promised that we'd help you develop your territory. So, what is the thing you most want to see in your territory in the next year?" (Mizuki)
Alara is again shocked, and the nobles are looking on in surprise as well.
"People that are happy to be there…I think. There's no existing structures or settlements, and on my own I expected it to be decades before it has even one thriving city. The idea of being virtually alone there for years is depressing." (Alara)
[Truth…and very sad.] (Nina)
Yeah…no kidding. I give a green light, and it kind of sobers the mood around the table.
"I really am sorry. I think we can make it so that you have a home, stable income, and basic settlement with people within a year. We'll do our best to make your transition into a true noble as tolerable as possible. I don't have any other questions I want to ask right now. However, you can ask me a question if you want." (Mizuki)
I get several incredulous looks when I mention the timeline for her territory. When I offer to answer a question of Alara's, Elira and Cara both sit forward expectantly.
"Uhm…Mizuki, could I also ask a question of you?" (Cara)
"No, Lady Cara. It won't do you any good, because of our existing agreement. Feel free to ask me later, in private, so you're not wasting a spell." (Mizuki)
I give a green light. Cara looks surprised. Ahh…so she didn't believe I'd never lie based on our agreement alone. Darak gives me a curious look.
"Mizuki, what is this about an agreement with Cara?" (Darak)
"Lady Cara was exceptionally kind to me at the reception. To show my gratitude, I offered her a personal favor of her choosing, so long as it only inconvenienced me and not my Lady. She asked if I'd agree to never give her false information. I granted her request – our agreement is that I'll never lie to her in private." (Mizuki)
I give a green light. Darak's eyes go wide in surprise.
"You really intend to abide by such a thing indefinitely?" (Darak)
"Yes, I do, Lord Darak. I take my promises very seriously, and I uphold them to the letter. Now, I won't be answering further questions under this spell from anyone other than Princess Alara, unless my Lady compels me to." (Mizuki)
I flash a green light. Darak and the other nobles stare at me dumbfounded, then he shakes his head in exasperation. Elira seems disappointed that I shot down further questions. Alara looks at me meekly, then seems to make up her mind.
"Mizuki, I'd like to ask…would it ever be possible for us to be on as good of terms as you are with the other elf in Lady Nedonera's party? Miss Alto, I believe it was." (Alara)
I smile apologetically.
"No, Princess Alara. Alto is irreplaceable, and excluding my Lady, I could never put as much trust in anyone as I do her. However, that's not a question that I think is fair to you. If you want to know if we could ever have a friendly relationship with trust, like I have with Zara…I'd say it's possible with time." (Mizuki)
[After all, Alara, we have roughly eight millennia together before the end of your life. A lot can happen in that time.] (Mizuki)
I flash a green light. Alara's eyes go wide in shock. Probably from a combination of my verbal response and my implication that I'll outlive her natural lifespan. However, she smiles after a moment and nods towards me – she is relieved. Helena finally speaks up again, and her face is one of bewilderment.
"You really have that much trust in someone that isn't even your own race!?" (Helena)
"That answer is already obvious, Lady Helena, and I just declined to answer subsequent questions. Queen Elira, are you convinced of this spell's effectiveness, to the point that you'd consider it credible evidence in a royal investigation? If not, perform whatever additional tests you'd like now." (Mizuki)
Helena gives me an annoyed look but says nothing. Elira has an amused smile, but her eyes are mildly suspicious of me.
"Yes, Mizuki, I believe the spell would be effective against any elf we needed to question. I will accept it as a credible form of evidence if the need ever arises. Nobles of the kingdom, does anyone wish to officially object to this decision? If so, I expect you to provide evidence that the spell cannot be trusted, which exceeds the contrary evidence provided by Lady Nedonera and her party here today." (Elira)
[She believes it would work against elves. I'm guessing she's not sure about it working on you.] (Nina)
I flash a green light.
There is silence, and then a series of dismissive remarks from the nobles – nobody is willing to officially object. I glance at Tessa and Jorah, and they both appear more despairing than vindictive. I don't think I have anything to worry about.
"Very well, I will remove the spell now." (Nina)
Nina holds up her hands towards the light, and I remove the spell. Elira breathes a sigh of relief.
"Very well then, let's consider all official business concluded for the day. Our relevant decisions will be announced to the people tomorrow during the official royal announcement. After the subsequent royal celebration, we will have one final meeting to discuss the matter of how much additional access to the country to give Lady Nedonera and her party. Everyone is dismissed." (Elira)
With that, the biggest pain in my ass of this royal announcement is over…probably.
[Alara, come find me in the library after this. I should finally tell you about some of my ideas to help you get started in your territory. The announcement tomorrow will be the perfect opportunity for you to advertise it to the people, so you can begin recruiting subjects.] (Mizuki)
Alara gives me a curious look, and she nods her head subtly. Good. I formulate my ideas as I exit the conference room, and I make my way to the library to wait for Alara.
¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬
"You're sure, I can ask you anything I want?" (Zara)
My friends and I have all returned to Nina's hot spring after my conversation with Alara, so we can talk in private. I'm making good on my promise to Zara to answer all her questions, and to make her feel included in the party.
"Yes, you can ask anything. There are certain things I might not be able to answer, but I won't lie to you. Also, I'm going to do my best to give you as much information as possible. Can I trust that you won't repeat anything that you learn without permission – not to your people, your family, or even your own children one day?" (Mizuki)
Zara seems surprised by how serious my desire for secrecy is, and she pauses for a moment to think it over. Eventually, she nods.
"Yes, you have my word. My first question is…why are you so powerful, and could I ever attain such strength? Your understanding of magic is obviously part of it, but you also seem to have unparalleled magic power." (Zara)
I sigh deeply…right to the point, huh?
"To start, no, I don't think you could acquire the level of magic power I have. As for why I'm so strong…the short answer is that it's because I'm not from your world, Zara. I wasn't born on Azura, and I came here from another planet altogether. Essentially, my people are different from the humans here, and that's why my eyes are this color, why I know so much about magic, and why I have so much magic power." (Mizuki)
Zara's eyes go wide in shock, and it's the first time I've ever seen her be overwhelmed by information. She glances at Nina and Alto, and they both nod calmly in turn. After a few minutes, she seems to recover.
"That…explains a lot. It was hard to imagine you being raised anywhere among the humans. I have another question. You've mentioned repeatedly that there are certain things you can't teach me. Can I ask what they are, and why?" (Zara)
In typical Zara fashion, her questions could not be more concise.
"Basically, there's someone more powerful than me on Azura, but I can't say who. We have an agreement in place, and I won't break it under any circumstances. I am only allowed to share the full knowledge of my home world, including my strange magic, with three people at a time. They are sworn to secrecy with me, and if they break it, I am required to kill them and anyone they spread the knowledge to." (Mizuki)
Zara's face becomes troubled.
"Someone more powerful than you…that's terrifying. You're practically a god, Mizuki. Should I be worried about them? Also, can I assume that you didn't make me one of these three people because I wouldn't be able to share the information with the wolf-kin? That's the justification I provided for joining your party – that I wanted to learn new things to teach my people, so they could flourish." (Zara)
I shake my head sympathetically.
"You don't need to worry about this person. They are very committed to not interfering in things. As for why you're not one of the three…you're half right. This agreement hasn't been in place the entire time you've known me. After it was made, I was concerned that Ilina already knew enough to count as one of the three, along with Nina and Alto. I never had the option to include you, I think." (Mizuki)
Zara sighs, then smiles at me genuinely.
"Thank you, Mizuki. In truth…the information I'm missing would be of little use to me if I can't tell my people, so that's fine. What things can you still do to help me aid my people?" (Zara)
"If it is anything already known to this world, anything at all, I can teach it to you or obtain it for you. There is also some limited knowledge from my home world that I can teach you. As for magic, so long as I work within the existing magic theories on Azura, I can help you with your magic training. I might even be able to provide unique incantation-based alteration class spells to you and teach you how to use them. You could spread those among your people. Finally, I can intercede on your behalf using all my power and knowledge." (Mizuki)
Zara grins happily.
"Mizuki, that's more than sufficient for my loyalty. I think I know everything about you and the value of being a member of your party that I need to." (Zara)
I flash her a huge smile.
"Zara…it brings me no small amount of joy to hear that. I assure you, you're a valuable member of my party and I trust you. Just like Alto and Nina, you have my support, and I look forward to our continuing friendship." (Mizuki)
We sit in comfortable silence for a time, then a certain dragon ruins it.
"Fufufu…this is very sweet Mizuki! Now, leave us women here alone, so we can bathe in the hot spring instead of just sitting near it. Zara, Alto, and I should bond some." (Nina)
I glance at Alto, and she smirks and nods. I let out a deep sigh and teleport back to the palace – straight to Ilina's room. When I arrive, she's sitting on her couch reading, but my sudden appearance startles her.
"Gah! Mizuki!? You can't just teleport into a lady's room without warning! What if I had been indecent?" (Ilina)
She has an amused tone as she says the last part, so I don't think she was too worried. She rises from the couch and walks over to me with a smile.
"If you had been indecent, I would have covered my eyes like a gentleman and left you with my apologies." (Mizuki)
Ilina rolls her eyes at me.
"I'm not buying your lies." (Ilina)
Before I can respond, she pulls me over to the couch and presses our lips together for several moments. When she pulls away, she seems to realize something.
"I got distracted…was there a reason for this unexpected visit?" (Ilina)
"This, actually, I had some free time and just wanted to see you." (Mizuki)
Ilina smiles, but then looks confused.
"I thought you had a meeting with Zara or something?" (Ilina)
"Oh, I did, but it ended. Then, Nina, Alto, and Zara kicked me out of the hot spring area so they could all bathe together and bond. Speaking of which, we could soak in the hot springs together sometime if you want?" (Mizuki)
Ilina's eyes go wide in surprise, and she climbs off me and stands up.
"What!? They're all soaking without me!? Mizuki, send me there immediately so I can join them!" (Ilina)
Uhm…what?
"Err, I mean I can, but…you don't want to take advantage of the alone time?" (Mizuki)
Ilina rolls her eyes.
"Tch…no, Mizuki! I can make out with you any time, but this is a rare opportunity to bond with the other women. Plus, I can't do any more than kiss you right now and it's frustrating. So, send me to the hot spring, or get Nina's blessing to make this less frustrating!" (Ilina)
Ouch…that's harsh. I know Nina won't go for it, though. She's insistent that Ilina and I be publicly in a relationship in the Elven Kingdom before anything like Ilina's suggesting can take place. I sigh deeply.
"Alright, I get it. I'll send you there when you're ready." (Mizuki)
Ilina's face lights up excitedly, then she runs off to another room quickly. After a minute I hear her call out to me.
"Alright, I'm ready!" (Ilina)
I walk over to her, and I freeze when I round the corner and she comes into view. She's holding a folded set of clothes, but she's not wearing anything other than an amused smile.
"I thought you deserved a consolation prize for being so accommodating. Also, I'm happy to go to this hot spring alone with you any time you want. So, keep me in mind." (Ilina)
I'm too shocked to speak, so I just nod.
"Fufufu…you're too easy. Okay, that's enough, go ahead and send me there!" (Ilina)
I obediently walk over, then focus on teleporting her to the hot spring without me, and she disappears. After a few moments…I sense amusement from Nina.
[Fufufufu…Ilina is quite merciless, bragging like that and then leaving you alone for the evening. Let's have a date night alone when I get back, hmm?] (Nina)
I try to send my gratitude through our connection, and I sense amusement in return.
"God, I love that dragon." (Mizuki)