"An Elder Dragon…seriously? I saw Nina's guild profile, and she has a power level of 5. While that's certainly remarkable, it's only a few times greater than some of the human heroes in the guild's records. That's hardly at the level of an Elder Dragon." (Leo)
After several moments of silence following my big reveal of Nina's identity, someone finally speaks up. Leo, a member of Levi's party, is looking at Nina skeptically. Surprisingly, Gerard addresses him before I can.
Gerard wears a terrified expression, and he speaks softly.
"According to the guild receptionist that performed the assessment, Nin…err, Lady Nedonera's true power couldn't be determined. A power level of 5 was just recorded because that's the device's maximum. What's more…you all should know that Mizuki's party has procured Elder Dragon scales before. I think...we're being told the truth." (Gerard)
Really, it's Lady Nedonera now? I suppress the urge to roll my eyes at Gerard's sudden change in attitude towards Nina.
Leo's eyes go wide in shock upon hearing Gerard's statement, and he falls silent. Zevy is staring at me in bewilderment.
"Mizuki…but…I thought you two were lovers. You...even bought lingerie in my store." (Zevy)
I stare back at Zevy dumbfounded. What the hell!? Hasn't he ever heard of store-customer confidentiality!?
Nina seems less bothered, however, and flashes a beautiful smile at everyone as she walks over to wrap her arms around me.
"Fufufu…that is true, and we very much enjoyed your wares." (Nina)
Several people look away uncomfortably at Nina's response, and the tension in the room seems almost comically broken. Still, there's no shortage of bewildered and concerned expressions around us. Theresa is staring holes in me.
"Uhm…M-Mizuki…what are you? You've got an Elder Dragon as your lover and subordinate, you didn't know what rot was, and you've got inhuman eyes. So, not human, obviously." (Theresa)
I smile at Theresa and shake my head.
"You're incorrect, Theresa, I am most definitely human. That's all you need to know, though." (Mizuki)
Theresa isn't convinced, but she doesn't press me for more information. Oh well, I don't really care what species people think I am anymore. It's not like it affects anything.
While Theresa takes my rebuttal in stride, Gerard isn't pleased. What happened to his whole timid routine after learning Nina's identity?
"Mizuki, that's not going to cut it. I've seen no less than three examples of inexplicable magic from your party today. In addition, it's clear that at least Nina has been flagrantly deceiving the guild about race, background, and ability. Finally, the very idea of an Elder Dragon following someone's orders is beyond ludicrous. You owe us an explanation for all of this." (Gerard)
I barely manage to avoid laughing in Gerard's face at that ridiculous statement. I owe them, really? After what they tried to pull here…I don't think so.
I narrow my eyes menacingly at Gerard, and he seems taken aback by the uncharacteristic hostility from me. Honestly, I'm surprised, too…I wasn't expecting his comment to irritate me so much.
"I strongly suggest that you reel in your entitlement Gerard…I don't owe you shit. If you've got a problem with any alleged deception, then you can ban us from the guild. However, I only share personal information with my friends, and it should be obvious from your actions today that none of you are my friends." (Mizuki)
A tense silence falls over the room, and even my own party members look at me in surprise. Yeah…I might have lost my cool a bit.
Why, though? I've been subjected to much worse without batting an eye. After a moment of reflection, I realize that I might be a little hurt by Gerard's actions today…we're not friends, but I did consider us friendly. At the least, I didn't expect him to turn on me like this without warning.
I feel myself getting frustrated with my behavior. It was naïve of me to assume a closer relationship than we had, and childish of me to lash out when my naïve assumptions were proven untrue. With the abilities I gained in this world, I can't afford to act so emotionally. My slip up may have been small this time, but…
Gerard seems to collect himself, and he responds to me hesitantly.
"Well, at the very least it seems like you're asking us to back you against the Empire. I was merely pointing out that doing that requires trust, and we're finding it hard to spare that towards you. How else do you expect to convince us to join your side? That's the point of this meeting you requested, right?" (Gerard)
From Gerard's vantage point, I think he's being completely reasonable. Unfortunately, he's mistaken about how I view the nature of this meeting.
I shake my head at Gerard.
"Sorry Gerard, that's not quite right. The point of this meeting is to give you information. In essence, to let you know your options going forward…so you can make informed decisions. I think one of those options clearly benefits you the most, and I'd also prefer that outcome, but I'm not about to treat it like a personal favor." (Mizuki)
Gerard becomes apprehensive and falls silent. Theresa takes over after a few moments.
"So, what are our options, as you see them?" (Theresa)
I nod appreciatively to her.
"Essentially, if you want us out of Elmesia, we'll leave voluntarily. Alternatively, we can continue as we were before. That's it. Since the Empire is retaliating because of us, we'll be thwarting any invasion force regardless. Similarly, you stand no chance of capturing us…it'd just result in senseless slaughter." (Mizuki)
Sylvia gives me a bewildered expression.
"You're saying that you'd peacefully leave Elmesia if asked?" (Sylvia)
I nod patiently.
"Yes…I've only engaged in reactionary violence until now. I have no interest in acting like a tyrant. However, I don't think you stand anything to gain by banishing us. If you are unable to turn us over to the Empire, their invasion won't be made more likely by us residing here versus leaving. Still, that's not for us to decide." (Mizuki)
Those are my true feelings. While I'd be bummed if they asked us to leave, I'd comply. Still, I doubt they will now that everything is out in the open. There really are no downsides for them, after all.
Sylvia gives me a surprised expression, then looks off thoughtfully. Gerard seems to realize something as I answer Sylvia's question, and his eyes narrow at me suspiciously.
"Mizuki…I've been wondering…do you know what happened to Kent?" (Gerard)
I'm caught off guard by the question…where did that come from? Gerard is watching me carefully, and I notice Levi and his party gauging my reaction as well.
Hmm…I don't really see any point in keeping it a secret anymore. They have an inkling that I'm not weak now, and it's not like I was unjustified in killing Kent.
I nod to Gerard and shrug.
"Yes. He and two of his party members ambushed me in the woods and tried to kill me, hoping Nina would join his party if I was out of the picture. Apparently, it was a common strategy of his, and he'd killed innocent adventurers before. The other two were complicit in these acts as well. So, I killed all three of them." (Mizuki)
A shocked silence falls over the room. Eventually, Gerard responds with a somewhat accusatory tone.
"Are you openly admitting to the guild master that your party murdered three fellow adventurers?" (Gerard)
I roll my eyes at Gerard and shake my head. I can feel myself getting irritated again.
"Clean out your ears, Gerard. First, I killed them in self-defense…that's not murder. Second, nobody else in my party was involved." (Mizuki)
"You're telling me that you killed three A-rank adventurers on your own?" (Gerard)
I nod patiently, and after a few moments of scrutinizing my expression, Gerard sighs deeply.
"Well, even if I believe that, do you have any proof that it was self-defense?" (Gerard)
I fight the urge to snap at Gerard…I'm not a fan of this barbaric logic on guilt versus innocence. I prefer the innocent until proven guilty idealism I'm used to back on Earth.
As I'm thinking of a less sarcastic retort, I hear Levi and Sylvia speak up.
"I saw Kent and two of his party members covertly follow Mizuki out of the guild around the time they went missing…their behavior certainly seemed predatory and suspicious. Although, I can't confirm anything else." (Sylvia)
"Gerard, I can confirm Sylvia's testimony. Also, this isn't the first time that Kent has been accused of using force to get his way with party members, even if none of them became official guild complaints." (Levi)
I glance at them briefly in surprise, and they just nod politely in response. I turn back to Gerard, and he seems thoughtful.
"Very well…I guess there's no reason for me to consider Mizuki's actions criminal at the moment. However, even if killing them was justified, hiding their deaths was not…we will need to discuss that later." (Gerard)
Wow…
"Isn't that nice. Well, if we can all agree that Kent has taken up enough of our time…let's get back to deciding about my party's presence in Elmesia. Does the council want to just take a vote and wrap this up?" (Mizuki)
I look at Theresa and Zevy in turn, and they just nod their heads absentmindedly. I guess I'm giving them whiplash with all this information and decision making…that's fair.
I turn my attention to Gerard, and he stares at me with an annoyed expression for a while. Eventually, he just sighs deeply and nods.
"Great! Then, all in favor of going on with your lives as if this hurtful attempt to imprison my party never happened…" (Mizuki)
I look around at the council members questioningly as I trail off.
"Aye…no need in hurting my bottom line for nothing." (Zevy)
"Aye…and…I'm sorry that circumstances forced us into taking these actions in the first place. I hope your party can forgive us." (Theresa)
Theresa looks at us with a conflicted expression on her face, but I get the sense that she genuinely feels bad about how things turned out. To my surprise, I hear several responses from my own party.
"Seeing all of your terrified reactions when we showed up was penance enough. I see no reason to hold a grudge." (Nina)
"I think the Empire is the real problem, so I won't hold your previous decision against you. After all, none of you were hostile to us before this." (Alto)
"Fufufufufu…I only feel pity for those that antagonize Mizuki. There's no room to be angry." (Zara)
I give my party a surprised look, but they all just smile back at me amused. Glancing at the others in the room, they seem relieved. I turn to Gerard and give him a questioning look…he still hasn't cast his vote.
Meeting my gaze, Gerard rolls his eyes.
"Aye…not that you needed the third vote. I've decided that the guild will be overlooking the inconsistencies in your party's member information. I also advise the council that we don't reveal Lady Nedonera's identity to anyone outside this room, and keep referring to her as Nina, if that's okay?" (Gerard)
Gerard directs the last question to Nina nervously.
"Fufufu…yes, you may all keep calling me Nina as long as I am pretending to be human." (Nina)
Gerard nods appreciatively, then looks to the others in the room. There's a round of assent, and I internally sigh in relief.
However, I'd be an idiot to take their cooperation at face value. These people have every reason not to be honest under their current circumstances, after all. While Nina's identity as an Elder Dragon is a strong motivator for them to fall in line, it's not a guarantee, and I need to know who to watch out for.
"Well, I'm glad to hear it. Now, I have one final question, and everyone in the room just needs to answer with a simple yes or no. Are any of you still contemplating the capture or harm of any member of my party?" (Mizuki)
Most of the people in the room just give me a confused expression…probably wondering why I think that someone would admit that just because I asked. Unsurprisingly, they all say no in sequence. Then, they stare at me expectantly.
I smile at them then turn to Nina. She's already looking at me with a smirk.
[Nina, any liars?] (Mizuki)
Nina shakes her head.
[I sense no deceit from any of them, Mizuki. It seems you properly convinced them to side with you.] (Nina)
Huh…I'm not going to lie, I thought at least one of them would still be mulling over the possibility. Leo and Zevy were my top suspects, and Rikard is hard to get a read on either way. I guess I was just paranoid.
I turn back to the others in the room with an approving smile, but they look back at me suspiciously. I guess they're wondering what the glances between Nina and me meant.
"Okay, I guess there's nothing else to discuss then! Gerard, you might want to let all the adventurers and guards surrounding this place know not to mess with us…I'm quite opposed to unnecessary bloodshed." (Mizuki)
I drop the silencing and forcefield spells I placed on the council room. Gerard is looking at me nervously.
"Mizuki, I'll do as you ask, but…it's a temporary fix. Though they weren't told why, those people outside were still urgently asked to apprehend you. Even after cancelling the request, they'll be curious why your party was wanted in the first place. As news of what you did in the Empire spreads, they'll draw their own conclusions. Those afraid of or loyal to the Empire may take matters into their own hands." (Gerard)
Hmm…Gerard makes a good point. With everything else on my plate, and the limited time I spend in Elmesia these days, I hadn't considered that…I'm getting sloppy. If I want Alto and Zara to be able to operate here safely without me, though, I'll need to address Gerard's concern.
"Then let's tell them a version of the truth. After hearing about our S-rank promotion and endorsement by the Elven Kingdom, Belmod summoned my party and claimed Nina and me as his subjects. Then, he tried to order us to help him invade Elmesia and claim it as an Empire city. When we refused and supported Elmesia as an independent territory, he tried to kill us, and we just defended ourselves." (Mizuki)
Zevy smiles mischievously at me.
"When the Empire's plan to subjugate your party failed, they sent us a letter ahead of you claiming that you attacked them unprovoked. They demanded that we capture your party for them upon your return, or else they'd justly wage war. However, that was their plot to weaken us before they invaded anyway, which we fell for by trying to apprehend you. Fortunately, you risked your freedom to warn us of the real danger, and your party promised to help us defend Elmesia. Now, we're a united front. What do you think?" (Zevy)
Realization dawns on Gerard's and Theresa's faces, and Gerard shakes his head in what could be exasperation or amusement. I smile at Zevy approvingly.
"I'm impressed, Zevy, that's a great story. It makes it clear to everyone that it's in their best interest to not harass us. It's also quite close to the truth, so the Empire should have a very hard time providing contrary evidence. It'll just be our word versus theirs. Is everyone okay with that plan?" (Mizuki)
We all look around the room at one another, and everyone slowly assents. Perfect.
Zevy clears his throat and turns to Gerard.
"Ehem…it seems I've done my fair share of free labor here then. Now that we've settled everything pressing, it's about time I got back to my businesses. Gerard, can you please dispel the bloodthirsty people outside so I can leave?" (Zevy)
Gerard rolls his eyes at Zevy, but he nods, and they leave the room together. As the door opens, I see one guard watching me nervously before Gerard shuts the door behind him. I can hear a faint conversation through the door, but I can't make out any words.
I return my attention towards my party, preparing to move on with our day, but I notice Levi's party and Theresa staring at me expectantly. I give them a confused look.
"Uhm…I think that's everything I wanted to discuss, so you can leave. Do you all need something?" (Mizuki)
Theresa nods hesitantly.
"Yes…you may not remember, but the council asked to meet with your party some time ago to discuss a job opportunity. That was proposed by me. I was wondering…do you have a friendly relationship with the Elven Kingdom, such that you can visit it again?" (Theresa)
I groan internally. I hate being a political mediator, and this feels like it's going in that direction.
"Let me guess…you want information about or access to the Elven Kingdom, and you're hoping that I can facilitate it or provide an opportunity to make your plea to the elves directly. Is that right?" (Mizuki)
Theresa seems to become dejected by my dismissive tone, but she nods bashfully. Figures. I have a great idea to avoid being bothered by these kinds of requests, though.
I turn to Alto, and she's giving me an annoyed look already. I guess she knows I want to dump this on her.
[Hey, Alto, do you think you could oversee requests like this from now on? I'd just end up consulting you anyway. I'm not expecting you to negotiate on behalf of your country, just on behalf of our party when requests relate to your country. If you don't think it's a good idea for our party to get involved, you don't even have to mention it to me. What do you say?] (Mizuki)
Alto sighs and gives me an amused smile, then she nods her agreement. I give her a sheepish grin and nod appreciatively.
Alto turns to face a confused but hopeful Theresa, then she removes her cloak hood. I hear some excited murmuring from the direction of Levi's party.
"Hello, Theresa, my name is Alto. As you may have gathered, I'm an elf as well as a member of Mizuki's party. You can direct any requests relating to my country toward me." (Alto)
Theresa seems surprised, then gives a polite smile and looks Alto over intently.
"It's an honor, Miss Alto…you're the first elf I've ever met. Rumors of an elven adventurer in Mizuki's party have been circulating since his S-rank promotion, but your identity has been otherwise shrouded in secrecy. You have my word that I'll do my best not to cause issues for you here." (Theresa)
"Yes, I've tried to be discrete, so I appreciate that you're not going to undermine that. Shall we move elsewhere in the room to chat privately? It seems that Levi and his party wish to speak with Mizuki." (Alto)
Theresa nods her agreement, and the two walk off to the far end of the room. I notice Levi and his party walking towards me cautiously, and Nina and Zara move closer to me in anticipation as well.
I cast a quick silencing spell over our immediate area so that Theresa doesn't overhear anything.
As Levi and his party move into range, they make surprised expressions…I assume it's due to outside sounds disappearing as they enter the silencing spell. Sylvia looks towards Theresa in confusion, who is still talking, then back at me. She narrows her eyes suspiciously.
"Is this your doing, Mizuki? Why can't I hear those two talking?" (Sylvia)
"Yes, I cast a spell that prevents sound from traveling between us. We can speak freely." (Mizuki)
Their eyes widen in surprise, but Levi looks strangely relieved.
"So, the guards didn't come earlier because you used this spell, not because they were harmed in any way?" (Levi)
How merciless does he think I am?
"That's correct. Harming them was unnecessary, and they haven't done anything to deserve it." (Mizuki)
Levi nods thoughtfully, then looks at me seriously.
"Mizuki, can I ask…why would you kill the people guarding those elven slaves without warning, but try and spare the guards that worked for Belmod? That doesn't make any sense to me." (Levi)
What's so hard to understand about that? I give him a baffled look.
"Well, the slave guards were complicit in depriving others of their lives and free will – they clearly knew that they were guarding kidnapped elves and wolf-kin children. Belmod's guards were merely protecting their emperor at first, and I had no direct evidence of similar wrongdoing. However, after refusing my offer, and trying to harm my party members, they became the same as the slave guards to me." (Mizuki)
Realization dawns on Levi's face, and he becomes thoughtful for a while. His expression seems troubled, but he doesn't speak again.
"Now, what did your party want to talk to me about? I'm guessing it wasn't that." (Mizuki)
Sylvia quickly answers my question, and her voice is thick with sarcasm.
"Well, you bullied Elmesia's council into compliance and basically threatened to murder us if we interfered. You claim you aren't a tyrant, but you've certainly been acting like one. So, we just wanted to ask our new overlord some questions." (Sylvia)
I raise my eyebrows at her in surprise…that's quite the hot take, and she's got a real sharp tongue on her. She kind of reminds me of Helena, actually.
Levi looks like he's about to faint, and I sense rising anger from Nina. Oh boy…
"I suggest you watch your tone with my mate if you've enjoyed your life so far human. I'm not as tolerant as Mizuki." (Nina)
I groan internally…could that dragon just avoid casual death threats?
I smile in amusement.
"Nina, she's allowed to say mean things about me, even if they're misguided. Please do me a favor and refrain from any violence. Sylvia, all I did today was warn you how I would react if people tried to unjustly harm me or my party. Otherwise, I attempted to cater to your wishes. I can't agree that qualifies as bullying." (Mizuki)
Nina clicks her tongue in response to my comment about violence, but she doesn't argue. Instead, she just glowers at Sylvia.
Sylvia looks a little nervous, but more than anything she looks surprised. She looks at me thoughtfully and mutters absentmindedly.
"I'll be damned...an Elder Dragon really is doing what you ask." (Sylvia)
I give Sylvia a surprised expression, and she realizes I heard her.
"I suppose I agree. You haven't committed or threatened any more violence than I would have in your position. Although, your actions seem manipulative, and your nonchalant attitude is annoying." (Sylvia)
I can't help but smirk at Sylvia over the last comment…I find the insult a little funny. I don't sense amusement from Nina, unfortunately, so I decide to move on before she turns homicidal.
"Well, wonderful…it seems like you're trying to test me somehow, but I don't really care. I'd rather hear why your party wants to talk to me? That question still hasn't been answered." (Mizuki)
Levi is still shaken by Sylvia's behavior, and Sylvia seems stunned by my response. Leo responds to my question while studying my face carefully.
"We wish to discuss why you asked us to join your party. I'm assuming Sylvia's testing that you noted was to gauge you as a leader. She was probably curious about your dynamic with Nina and how you'd handle criticism. Also, that dumb look on her face tells me that her insult was meant to get a rise out of you." (Leo)
Oh, so that's what it is? That's somewhat clever of Sylvia, but intentionally trying to provoke an Elder Dragon and her mate is incredibly reckless. I can't help but question Sylvia's judgement.
Sylvia cuts a menacing glare at Leo, who seems unfazed.
"Tch…it's not very smart of you to call my face dumb when I'm standing right here, Leo." (Sylvia)
Leo snorts at Sylvia
"I won't accept criticism about my intelligence from a meathead who antagonizes an Elder Dragon and her lover as a test, as if either of them couldn't easily kill you." (Leo)
Sylvia rolls her eyes at Leo.
"I bet I could take Mizuki one-on-one, though I agree that Nina is a different story. Still, she wouldn't kill me unless Mizuki okays it, and he seems too patient to snap over a couple of insults. I think I gained more than I risked…wouldn't you agree, tactician Leo?" (Sylvia)
Sylvia calls Leo a tactician sarcastically, obviously trying to belittle him. However, Leo seems completely oblivious to her sarcasm – he interprets her words literally.
Leo nods thoughtfully.
"Yes, I'd agree with that assessment now, but you had no way of knowing that before you antagonized them. So, you're still a reckless meathead. Also, I disagree that you could handle Mizuki alone. Elder Dragons' distaste for weak creatures is well-known, and that includes you. So, Mizuki must be far stronger than you to be Nina's mate." (Leo)
I sense amusement from Nina, and glancing at her, I see a smirk on her and Zara's faces. Sylvia gives an incredulous look to Leo, but Rikard makes a rare interjection.
"I don't know Leo...Elder Dragons normally don't interact with humans, and Miss Nina went out of her way to destroy the Empire's army in the past. So, it's safe to say she's not like other Elder Dragons. There's no need for Mizuki to be so strong…can't she just like him? He's handsome enough, and he seems like an interesting guy." (Rikard)
I give Rikard a surprised look and he smiles back sheepishly. Oh Rikard, you sweet man…I had no idea your strong and silent persona was hiding so much innocence. He must be protected at all costs.
Sylvia makes a face at Rikard like he's deranged, but she turns to face Leo again.
"Well, I don't know about all that other crap, but I agree with Rikard that Mizuki doesn't necessarily outmatch me." (Sylvia)
Leo sighs and shakes his head in exasperation. Levi, who seems to have finally recovered from Sylvia's outbursts, interjects with a disapproving tone.
"Alright you two, that's enough. This isn't what we wanted to discuss, and it's rude to talk about Mizuki like he's not even there. Mizuki, could you tell us why you asked us to join your party…please?" (Levi)
When addressing me, Levi's tone softens, and he gives me an apologetic smile. I'm glad he's finally gotten over whatever his issue was…he was acting strange earlier.
Leo and Sylvia fall silent, looking a little embarrassed. I smile at Levi and nod.
"Sure, that's simple. We need help protecting Elmesia and completing jobs in human countries…we're a little too conspicuous now. You, and by extension your party, are the only other humans I'd currently entrust with such important tasks." (Mizuki)
Levi looks surprised, then grins sheepishly.
"I'm not sure what I did to earn it, but I'm flattered." (Levi)
I smile back at Levi earnestly.
"I'm glad to hear it! So, does that mean you'll be joining us?" (Mizuki)
Levi hesitates, and his expression becomes apprehensive. Before he can respond, however, Sylvia snorts.
"Not so fast there, Mizuki. If you're not forcing us…why would we even want to join your party? What's in it for us?" (Sylvia)
Levi looks a little nervous about Sylvia's phrasing, but he doesn't say anything. His whole party is looking at me expectantly…I guess they're all curious. I think it's a fair question.
I shrug at Sylvia.
"First, everyone in my party gets their choice of equipment as soon as they join. Second, I vehemently protect my party members…even if it means going against an emperor. Third, you'd be able to apply for S-rank promotion if you were in my party, though you may not want all that attention. If there is something else you want, then feel free to ask. If it's reasonable and within my power, I'll grant it." (Mizuki)
Sylvia makes a curious expression, then looks off thoughtfully.
"Mizuki, you mentioned completing jobs for you in other human countries. Would that include within the Empire?" (Levi)
Levi is watching me nervously, and I see Sylvia glance at me expectantly as well. Is that a problem for them or something? Hmm…
"Possibly, but I wouldn't send you into a job without contingencies in place to keep you as safe as possible. Also, I'm asking you to join my party, not become my slaves. You could decline jobs if you have a legitimate concern, and I'd respect your wishes." (Mizuki)
Relief washes over Levi's face, and I see a similar but less severe reaction from Sylvia. I feel like there's something there, but…it's not my place to pry. Leo catches my gaze, and he seems skeptical. I raise my eyebrows at him inquisitively.
"Mizuki, what would the chain of command be like if we joined your party? Would you be splitting us up to work with the other members of your party in new teams? Would joining affect our ability to take other guild jobs? What would your expectations of us be?" (Leo)
I widen my eyes in surprise…that's a lot of questions. Leo just stares back at me, waiting patiently for an answer.
"Your party would operate as-is, with Levi as the point of contact between us. You could still take other jobs at your leisure, so long as they don't hurt innocent people…human or non-human. My expectations…hmm. Never share anything we tell you without my express permission. Treat your fellow party members with respect. Keep us apprised of the situation in Elmesia regularly. Accept the jobs we give you or justify why you can't." (Mizuki)
Leo nods absentmindedly at my answers, and he remains silent. I turn to Rikard with a questioning gaze, expecting him to have requests or inquiries. Rikard looks back at me in confusion for a moment. Then, seeming to pick up on the reason for my gaze, he shakes his head and smiles.
"Thank you Mizuki, but I have no questions or requests. I will follow whatever decision Leo makes, and I trust that he'll ask for anything we need." (Rikard)
"Very well, Rikard. I'm a little curious though…why Leo? I thought Levi was your party leader." (Mizuki)
Rikard nods and gives a very serious expression.
"Leo and I traveled alone together many years before we joined Levi's party. He saved me when we were kids, and since then he's always taken care of me – I've never regretted following him. I like Levi and Sylvia, and I consider them friends, but my loyalty is ultimately towards Leo. I'm only in Levi's party because it's what Leo suggested, but I think he's a good party leader." (Rikard)
My my…how interesting. I already thought Leo was peculiar, but this just increases my intrigue. I glance at Leo, and he just looks back at me like he's curious how I'll react to the information from Rikard. Hmm…
I smile warmly at Rikard.
"Wonderful, Rikard, I'm glad to hear that you've found someone you can trust so much…that's something to cherish. I'd love for you to indulge me with the full story one day if you're willing." (Mizuki)
Leo quickly redirects the conversation before Rikard can answer.
"Speaking of indulging people with full stories…are you going to explain all the strange things I witnessed today if we join your party? I have several questions." (Leo)
I smirk at Leo.
"Perhaps with time, but probably not everything right away." (Mizuki)
Leo nods and shrugs.
"Yes, I suppose that's understandable. Oh well…it was worth asking." (Leo)
I smile at Leo apologetically, and the area falls silent for a moment. It's quickly interrupted by the sight of Alto and Theresa walking back towards us. They breach the silencing spell's bounds and Theresa's already puzzled expression becomes outright bewildered.
"Remarkable…is this some kind of magic spell? I've never seen anything like it…we couldn't hear you talking at all." (Theresa)
Theresa is glancing around my party intently…probably wondering who cast the spell. I better nip that in the bud.
I smile back at Theresa and nod. Then, I grab Nina's hand and pull her toward me into a hug.
Nina seems like she was about to fall asleep from boredom after so much talking, so the action makes her yelp in surprise at first. When she sees what happened, she grins happily. The others seem uncomfortable, but I ignore them and just keep smiling at Theresa as I address her.
"Yeah, you guessed it. Isn't Nina awesome? Even among the other Elder Dragons, she's quite exceptional. In fact, none of them come close to her range of incantation-less magic." (Mizuki)
Several members of Levi's party raise their eyebrows at me, no doubt wondering why I'm lying about who cast the silencing spell, but they remain silent. However, Theresa's eyes widen in surprise, and she stares at Nina with something adjacent to reverence. I guess I can mark her as convinced.
I look over to see Nina grinning widely at my comment, and I sense waves of satisfaction rolling off her.
"I could get quite accustomed to this level of praise, Mizuki. Fufufu…do you have any other sweet things to say about your mate, hmm?" (Nina)
Compliment fishing!? I sense Ilina's influence here....that's not good for me.
[Not that I can say in public.] (Mizuki)
Nina's eyes widen in surprise, then she cuts me a mischievous look and I sense…smugness…from her. I roll my eyes at her, then look back to Alto. She's just smirking as she watches the interaction play out.
"Nina and Zara, why don't we join Theresa and Alto and go chat elsewhere. I'm sure Levi's party has some things they'd like to discuss in private here." (Mizuki)
Nina and Zara nod their agreement, and I direct a follow-up thought message to Levi's party.
[Feel free to talk over the option of joining my party amongst yourselves for now. We're going to settle things with Theresa, and then we can all chat one more time in private after she leaves.] (Mizuki)
Their eyes widen in surprise, then they all nod their acknowledgement.
I turn to Alto and Theresa and gesture towards the other side of the room where they were talking earlier, and they nod and lead us outside of the silencing spell.
"So, how did your chat together go, Alto?" (Mizuki)
Theresa's face becomes saddened, and Alto just shakes her head apologetically.
"It seems that Theresa is generally aware that elves live much longer than humans, and that we're more advanced as a magic society. She thought that, to live so long, elves must have access to rare magic that can cure things like rot and other illnesses. She wanted us to help her acquire such knowledge." (Alto)
Wow…as far as requests go, that's an admirable one. It's a shame that there's no way for the elves to grant it, even if they wanted to.
Nina's prior explanations about human-elf offspring made it clear to me that elves are probably modified humans. The god responsible obviously found genetic modifications that buffed elves' lifespan and resistance to illness. I'm sure that molecular biologists on Earth would kill to know what those were.
I nod sympathetically towards Theresa.
"Ah, yes…so, that's why you look so disheartened, Theresa. As I'm sure Alto explained, the elves have no such healing magic to teach you. They just have a truly enviable natural resistance to ageing and illness. Looking at how drastic the difference is, it's hard to believe they were once human." (Mizuki)
Theresa looks at me in bewilderment. Huh…I guess that's not something the humans knew about. I suppose that makes sense – the elves are very secretive.
To my shock, however, Alto is also staring at me like I'm insane.
"Mizuki, explain yourself! Are you implying that elves and humans are related!?" (Alto)
Holy shit...do the elves not know either!? Nina knew that Elder Dragons were modified humans, so I just assumed the elves must have similar ancestral knowledge.
I stare at Alto blankly for a few moments.
"Well…yes. Based on what I've learned about elves so far, it's likely that a god created the first elves by slightly modifying humans. Elder Dragons are humans that a god modified much more drastically…it's why Nina can take a human form. Do the elves really have no such story in your histories?" (Mizuki)
Alto goes pale and looks towards Nina with a dumbfounded expression. Nina chuckles and nods her acknowledgement. Alto looks thoughtful for a while, then looks back to me with a strange expression.
"No…we don't have any such historical records. However, when our ancestors were brought to this planet, it's well known that we lost a lot of our history in the transition. Mizuki…if what you say is true, it could change the whole way we interact with other races. We must discuss this at the next...meeting!" (Alto)
Alto glances nervously at Theresa as she mentions what I assume is the next nobles' meeting. Yeah, we've been kind of sloppy about talking in front of her like this, but I don't think I've mentioned anything harmful.
[I don't know Alto…how do you think Tessa and Jorah will react to me telling them that elves are related to humans? Let's discuss this another time, though…when Theresa isn't listening.] (Mizuki)
Alto seems to cringe at the mention of Tessa and Jorah, and she nods her agreement. I turn to Theresa, who has remained surprisingly silent, and she's staring at us with her mouth open. Crap…so, there were definitely bombshells for her in my exchange with Alto.
"M-Mizuki…you're talking about gods and other planets like you know they're real…Miss Alto as well. Are you saying the legends of the god Azazel bringing the non-human races here from other planets is true? How could you know such a thing?" (Theresa)
Wait…do the humans think those are just legends? I mean, I don't have room to talk, being an atheist on Earth – obviously, now reformed. Still, I feel like Azazel's influence has been much more apparent on Azura.
I'm not sure how to explain my knowledge about Azura's history to Theresa. Thankfully, Alto nods at Theresa and interjects.
"That is correct. What you consider legends are known as fact among the elves. We have historical records of arriving on this planet, and of Azazel meeting with the first elves. We even have statues of some of the first elves that came here from our original planet. Keep in mind that elves can live for millennia, so these events don't seem like ancient history to us." (Alto)
Oh yeah…that's a good point. Come to think of it, the only people I've heard talk about Azazel's world transplanting like fact are long-lived races – elves, Nina, and Percivil. I've never discussed it with wolf-kin or humans.
Theresa is staring at Alto in a haze…I smell an existential crisis. That's not good. If the information is that profound to humans, and they learn that the elves have such pristine historical records from dozens of millennia back…hmm.
"Theresa…you with us?" (Mizuki)
Theresa snaps back to attention, and nods at me.
"Good. Now, I'm sorry, but you can't mention that you were told all that by an elf, nor can you share anything that you've learned about the Elven Kingdom. I don't want to risk it enticing further exploitative efforts from human governments. Is that clear?" (Mizuki)
I ask my question to Theresa with a stern look, hoping she'll understand how seriously I'm taking the matter. She looks surprised at first, then becomes thoughtful. Eventually, she nods with a sad look on her face.
"Yes, you have my word." (Theresa)
Theresa's expression as she looks at me seems genuine, and I don't sense or hear anything from Nina…I guess she means it.
I smile and nod approvingly at Theresa.
"Great! In that case, I might be able to help you since the elves can't. I have ideas for how you could use magic to potentially cure things like rot, and maybe other illnesses too, but it will require some trial and error to figure out." (Mizuki)
Theresa's eyes fly open in shock.
"You can't be serious!? A cure…for rot!? You didn't even know what it was until today!" (Theresa)
Well…that's an understandable reaction. Still, if rot is cancer like I think…it's possible I can help. I'll need to come up with a way to detect cancer, then excise it safely and completely. Also, I doubt I can come up with strategies for all types of cancer, but…yeah, curing some types of cancer is plausible thanks to magic.
I shake my head at Theresa.
"Actually, I'm familiar with the illness you call rot, I just didn't know it by that name. As for curing it…yes, I think it might be possible for a fraction of people. Still, I can't make any guarantees." (Mizuki)
Theresa gives me an exasperated look.
"Mizuki…rot is a death sentence for everyone that develops it. The only thing that varies is how slow and painful it is for them. Even if you could cure only one in twenty people…the hope that would bring…" (Theresa)
Theresa trails off wistfully. I think I should wrap this up…I have a lot on my plate right now, and I wasn't expecting to spend so much time here today.
"Alright, well like I said, I will need to prepare before even trying to cure it or other illnesses. Plus, there's the impending threat of invasion by the Empire, and I have other obligations as well. So, it may be a while, several weeks even, before I can assist you. However, I promise to help when things are less hectic. In the meantime, just keep track of anyone with rot at your clinic, but don't give them false hope. How's that?" (Mizuki)
Theresa smiles and nods.
"That sounds more than reasonable…sincerely, thank you. In that case, I'll return to my clinic now. Normally we just give people with rot the bad news and send them on their way, so I need to set some changes in motion as soon as possible. Miss Alto, Lady Ne…err, Nina…thank you for speaking with me as well. I hope to see you all again soon." (Theresa)
With her goodbyes, Theresa bows lightly to us and departs from the council room. I don't notice any guards peeking in this time as she closes the door behind her…I guess we've finally been left alone.
I turn to face my party, and they're all looking at me expectantly. I kind of interrupted the whole reason we came to Elmesia today in the first place…letting Alto and Zara rank up.
I glance at Levi's party, and they still seem to be chatting behind the silencing spell. Good.
"Alright, I'm sorry for pulling you all away from what you were doing. I think I can take care of everything else if you three want to go finish your guild job. Where should I send you?" (Mizuki)
Zara smiles at me and shakes her head.
"There's no need to send us anywhere…we completed our job shortly before you contacted Nina. Alto and I were only one A-rank job away from being eligible for the A-rank exam. So, we would have returned to the guild soon anyway." (Zara)
"Fufufu…indeed, you summoned us at the perfect time. This has been an entertaining meeting…mostly." (Nina)
"I agree with Nina…I learned something interesting about my people thanks to coming here. Also, can I assume that the preparations you mentioned for treating rot will involve more research together?" (Alto)
Alto looks up at me with excited eyes as she asks her question. I smile and nod.
"Fufu…yes, I'm quite looking forward to it myself. It will involve the most experimenting I've done with magic since coming here. I suspect you'll find it very interesting as well…it will be different from our prior research together." (Mizuki)
Alto flashes a giddy smile my way.
"When can we start!?" (Alto)
"Woah…slow down there Alto! Have you forgotten how much crap we have to do in the next couple of weeks? Building two new railroads, the nobles' meeting, visiting the different demi-human clans, freeing the Empire's slaves, and then meeting with and maybe killing the Empire's leadership. Plus, defending Elmesia if necessary, and dealing with any fallout in Elmesia from this incident today. That research needs to wait a while." (Mizuki)
"Tch...you're such a tease, Mizuki! Will you at least make time for our normal research together? I want to learn that spell you use to talk without people hearing you, or the one you use to sense where Zara and I are when we're invisible." (Alto)
I smirk at Alto, but before I can prepare a sarcastic response…
"What!? No fair, Alto! Tch…at this rate, I won't even be able to put up a good fight in our sparring matches." (Zara)
I turn to Zara in surprise…it's not very often I hear her be so frantic. Wait…did she say that her and Alto sparred!?
I look back at Alto with a bewildered expression, and she seems amused. That damn elf…
"Alto…have you and Zara been sparring!?" (Mizuki)
"Oh yes, did I not mention that? We've had semi-regular sparring sessions for a while now. Don't worry, we never seriously hurt one another." (Alto)
"Honestly, I'm more interested in why you agreed to spar in the first place. It's not really your style, Alto. Did Zara tie a book to a stick and lure you outside?" (Mizuki)
Alto rolls her eyes at me, but then her expression grows serious.
"Jokes aside, Mizuki…I asked Zara to spar with me. It's a good way to try out nonlethal combat spells. More importantly...I want to grow strong enough that I never again experience that helplessness I felt in the wolf-kin village raid. You always look out for us when we're together, but…I want to be able to handle important missions for you independently, so I can further our goals." (Alto)
I widen my eyes in surprise, and Alto just stares back at me with a determined expression. I…had no idea she felt so strongly about all this. Should I be doing more to help her get stronger? There are certainly more spells, very dangerous ones, that I could teach her.
I put on a serious expression and nod at Alto.
"Okay Alto, I understand. In that case, I'll make time to teach you those spells as quickly as possible. I admit that I'm hesitant to send my friends out on dangerous missions alone, but…it's not because I don't trust you. I'll do my best to help you all get as strong as possible, so that you can be as independent as you want." (Mizuki)
Alto gives a warm smile in return, and I sense a rush of affection and amusement from Nina.
"Fufufu…how sweet, Mizuki. Can I look forward to such adorable interactions between you and our children?" (Nina)
Children!? Plural!?
I look at Nina in bewilderment, and she just grins. I also sense her amusement intensify. Thankfully, Zara interjects.
"Mizuki, it appears that Levi's party wishes to speak with us." (Zara)
I quickly turn my attention to where we left Levi and the others. I see them leaving the silencing spell area and heading towards us. I remove the silencing spell as they arrive in front of us.
I smile at Levi's group and raise my eyebrows inquisitively.
"Welcome back Levi and friends…have you reached a decision about whether you'll be joining my party?" (Mizuki)
Levi sighs deeply and nods.
"Yes, we're all in agreement…we'll accept the offer to join your party. However…" (Levi)
Levi looks at me apprehensively for a few moments, and I gesture for him to continue.
"…well, despite my protests, the others have a request that they won't budge on. They say they won't feel comfortable working for you unless you grant it." (Levi)
Oh? If it's just one, and that's all it takes to get them to join my party, I'm sold.
I smile eagerly at all of them and nod.
"That's reasonable…I don't mind. Color me intrigued, though – what's the request?" (Mizuki)
Sylvia flashes a mischievous grin.
"We want to see you fight – just you, sparring with me in single combat. Even if I beat you…and I fully intend to…we'll consider the request fulfilled and join your party. What do you say?" (Sylvia)
I can't keep the surprise off my face…that's all they want? That will only take a few seconds of my time, and I'll only have to show them a single spell.
I smile back at Sylvia, amused.
"If that's all you want, th-" (Mizuki)
Before I can respond, Zara interjects.
"Mizuki, please wait. I have a request." (Zara)
I turn to Zara in surprise, as do the others.
"Uhm…sure Zara. Let's hear it." (Mizuki)
Zara smiles at me and nods, then she turns to face Sylvia and smirks. Oh boy…
"Truthfully, I don't think any of you are worthy of such a duel with him. I think you should have to first beat me, the weakest member of his party, to earn such an honor. Mizuki, I ask that you allow me to fight them before you grant their request." (Zara)
Christ…her wolf-kin is showing. That's not like her though…what's gotten into her?
I don't get the chance to tell Zara how unfair it would be to deny the singular request that an entire A-rank party had before agreeing to work for me. Before I can, Sylvia snorts derisively.
"I accept…let's see if you can back up that tough talk little wolf." (Sylvia)
I won't lie, I'm quite surprised to hear her agree so readily. Still…that's going to be a problem.
"I'm sorry, to both of you, but that wouldn't be fair. I can't condone such a match." (Mizuki)
Sylvia looks at me, slightly annoyed.
"With all due respect, Mizuki, I politely request that you don't interfere. She may be a child, but we're going to be working together. So, while I agree that it's an unfair match-up for her, she needs to be accountable for such an insult. I promise not to seriously harm her." (Sylvia)
I shake my head apologetically.
"Sylvia, I'm sorry, but I think you've misunderstood me. I meant that you stand practically no chance of beating Zara in single combat. So, there'd be no way to grant your request if I let Zara have her way. That's the part that I believe is unfair…to you." (Mizuki)
Sylvia snaps her head towards me in bewilderment. She looks like she's about to argue, but Nina interjects with an amused tone.
"Mizuki, if I could make a quite entertaining proposal…why not have Zara fight their entire party at once? I think that would put the odds in their favor, and it would give us an opportunity to really challenge Zara without holding her back. She'd benefit from true combat practice while pressed to her limits." (Nina)
Sylvia's mouth is hanging open in shock at Nina's words. I, on the other hand, smile widely at everyone.
"Nina…that's a wonderful idea, and I quite like your proposal. Very well, I'll condone such a match." (Mizuki)
"Absolutely not, I don't need their he-" (Sylvia)
Sylvia's shrill outburst is cut off by Levi. He's wearing a grim expression while looking between Zara and me.
"Sylvia, that's enough. If you trust me as much as you say, then agree to the terms. I've got a feeling...you're going to be thankful for the help." (Levi)
Damn…he's as keen as ever. I really hope he tells me one day how he picks up on this stuff. It's kind of creeping me out, honestly.
Sylvia looks at him incredulously, but Levi's expression doesn't waver. After a moment, Sylvia's eyes go wide in surprise, and she looks back towards Zara suspiciously.
"Well, I'm not thrilled about it, but I'll agree to the terms. Levi's instincts are the scariest I've ever seen…I'd be an idiot to ignore them." (Sylvia)
Wow…given how riled up she was just a minute ago, her trust in Levi must be maxed out to do a complete 180 like that. They must have been through a lot together.
I turn my attention back to Zara, who is wearing a satisfied smile.
"Zara, is a one-on-four match against their entire party okay with you? I won't be imposing any restrictions on your abilities with such a lopsided fight. It should go without saying that none of you are allowed to harm anyone beyond what can be fixed by healing magic, or else I'll end the fight immediately." (Mizuki)
Zara nods at me politely.
"Of course, I'll respect your rules. Thank you, Mizuki. I'd like to ask…if I emerge victorious, could I have a second gift of my choosing?" (Zara)
She wants a second spell ring, huh? Hmm…I guess that's appropriate if she manages to single-handedly beat an entire A-rank adventuring party. More importantly, Alto already has two, and Zara can't be taught full magic, so that seems fair. Plus, I'll want her as capable as possible if she'll be doing missions without me later.
I smile and nod at Zara.
"Sure, I'll agree to that. Since you're all in agreement, we can depart shortly to the combat grounds…is everyone ready?" (Mizuki)
Rikard and Sylvia look more confused by my question than the others, but everyone in the room voices their assent.
[Nina…is it okay if we use your nest as the battlefield?] (Mizuki)
[Yes, Mizuki, it's fine. I don't know how many times I must tell you that it's not my nest anymore. Please feel free to use that place however you want from here onward.] (Nina)
I push amusement through our connection and smile at everyone. Then, I teleport us all to Nina's old nest. Naturally, I don't warn Levi's party.
It's just more fun that way.