Where did I slip up...what could possibly have made Alyse think that? Wait...no...that's not what's most important right now. The question is, what should I do? Do I deny it? I mean, she has to be guessing, right? There's probably some way to convince her it's a misunderstanding.
Actually, scratch that. I'm kidding myself if I think that this was some half-assed guess of hers. She asked me something that is believed to be impossible by this world at large, after only knowing us a day. Even the arrow incident shouldn't be enough evidence for a declaration that bold. So, I don't know what's making her so sure, and I'm not going to determine her evidence with absolute certainty in mere seconds.
She didn't guess my secret by coincidence. Obviously, she's seen something compelling. There's no way she'd voice such an outrageous question otherwise. Unless I know exactly what lines of evidence drove her deduction, it's far too risky to try and undermine her belief about me with blind lying. Plus, the shocked looks on everyone else's faces probably anecdotally validated Alyse's suspicions.
Of course, some would say that I have nothing to lose by just lying and playing the confused fool, in the hopes that it protects my secret. However, I'd consider those people idiots. Or, at least thoughtless.
When you're confronted with someone of great power, you're immediately inclined to determine their threat level to you. In other words, Alyse is going to be looking for reasons to trust or fear me if she thinks I'm that strong.
If she catches me lying to her, desperately protecting a secret that she just revealed her knowledge about, she'll be predisposed to view herself as my adversary. Honestly, I don't want any more of those. In contrast, if I were to freely admit my secret to her, it could serve as an opportunity to reassure her and earn her trust. It's in our nature to grow closer to those who share secrets about themselves with us.
I study Alyse's face across the boat from me, bathed in golden light from the setting sun, and I can see her light brown eyes studying me nervously in return. I've already been thinking silently for a few seconds. The longer I delay a decision, the less leverage I have.
I do my best to smile at Alyse reassuringly, and it seems to confuse her more than put her at ease.
"Yes, you're correct Alyse. I am, for all intents and purposes, 'in charge' of our little group here. Although, I try not to make decisions for everyone unilaterally. I'm not a dictator or anything." (Mizuki)
Alyse's eyes go wide in shock, and her mouth falls open. To her credit, Alto and Cara are staring at me as well, equally in disbelief. Nina is behind me, so I can't see her face, but I sense confusion from her. After several seconds of silent staring, Alyse seems to realize that I'm awaiting her response.
"I...I didn't...you're just...admitting it...just like that!? So, your role as Lady Nedonera's servant...it really is just a ruse..." (Alyse)
Alyse shakes her head in exasperation, then seems to remember something.
"What about the other thing, then? How strong are you?" (Alyse)
I nod at Alyse.
"You're correct, Alyse, I am not her servant. In fact, she is actually my wife by Elder Dragon standards. Also, I call her Nina, not Nedonera. As for how strong I am...I think it's sufficient to say that I'm definitely stronger than the Elder Dragons. That includes Nina. As you may have already guessed, the belief that I can't use magic is false. " (Mizuki)
It's true that she probably didn't know at least some of that information, especially about Nina's and my relationship, but that's actually a good thing in my mind. If she already knows that Nina isn't our leader, and about how strong I am, then nothing else is additionally problematic. Instead, by willingly revealing information she obviously didn't know, I can build trust with her.
Alyse's eyes widen further, then she leans forward and gently places her face in her hands for several seconds. Meanwhile, I feel a surge of ecstasy from Nina over my use of the word 'wife'. Eventually, Alyse jerks upright suddenly, wearing a nervous expression.
"Uhm...Mizuki....I have so many questions, but...why are you just telling me all this? Like, you clearly wanted to keep your abilities a secret, but now you're suddenly telling me everything without hesitation like it doesn't matter. You're not...planning to kill me, are you?" (Alyse)
Christ...that is dark. Alyse looks like she's terrified. I quickly make a placating gesture, and put on my most reassuring smile.
"Woah, no! Please don't freak out. I have no intention of hurting you, I swear. I'm answering your questions honestly because I thought you could be trusted, and I want to show you that you can trust me, too." (Mizuki)
That's not exactly true, but...she doesn't need to know. After all, saying that I had nothing to lose by telling her, and that I hoped it would help me manipulate her into keeping my secret...that's not very endearing. Alyse relaxes noticeably, but I also seem to have triggered some BS detector of hers.
Her eyes narrow suspiciously, and she glances at Alto and Cara in sequence, then looks off thoughtfully. It's best to intervene, I think, before she decides on anything inconvenient. I could always threaten her...silence or a magic-less life, silence or bodily harm, silence or death...such threats aren't for people like her, though.
So far, she hasn't antagonized me or any of my friends. Unfortunately, I don't believe I have a right to privacy over my abilities. If I did something publicly, she noticed, and she decides to share that information...I still won't feel justified in violating her autonomy through threats, like I did with Alara. I think I'll have to opt for the carrot approach and hope it works.
"If you don't mind me saying so, Alyse, it doesn't seem like you believe what I'm telling you. That's totally understandable, of course, since I've spent the day deceiving you on some level. However, now you know what I wanted to keep hidden, so I have little motivation for further deceit. So, tell me...what can I do to earn your trust? Or, at least dispel your fears." (Mizuki)
Alyse's eyes widen at the sudden question, then her expression becomes confused for a few moments. Eventually, she just shrugs.
"I don't know...honestly. You've acted pretty neutral towards me, personally. I mean, you certainly don't seem hostile, but I don't know what to make of you. Still, I'm not going to tell anyone your secrets if that's what you're worried about. It wouldn't benefit me at all." (Alyse)
Oh? I glance towards Nina, and she seems to immediately understand what I'm after.
[There's no deceit in her words. It may be out of fear, but she doesn't seem like she plans to tell others about your abilities and our relationship. Fufufu...that's too bad. I did enjoy being called your wife. Perhaps we should make that a habit in the human countries, hmm? They seem to find the term 'mate' strange.] (Nina)
[Maybe you think I'll take issue with that, but I don't, you know? The humans already think we're a couple, so there's no problem. From now on, if it's around humans, I'll call you my wife if that's what you want. It's effectively true.] (Mizuki)
I sense surprise and then immense satisfaction from Nina in quick succession, then I return my attention to Alyse. It looks like I don't have to worry about her exposing me, but I've seldom found fear to be the most effective motivator. It'd be better if she wanted to keep my secrets, out of friendship or loyalty. I smile at Alyse politely.
"Well, I appreciate that, and I believe you. Still, what was it you said before? 'Friends' actions help you, enemies actions' hurt you, and nothing else matters', or something like that. So, how about as a thank-you for your discretion, I do you a favor? Is there anything you'd be interested in?" (Mizuki)
Alyse looks surprised again by the suggestion, but purses her lips thoughtfully. After a few seconds of silence, I hear Cara clear her throat nervously.
"Ehem...if I may make a suggestion, Alyse, why don't you ask Mizuki to let you join their group? You're always talking about how unpleasant it is to be around the family, and you've seemed incredibly bored lately. Plus, didn't Mother suggest that you leave Wellick and start living your own life? If nothing else, I'm sure that joining these three will at least be interesting." (Cara)
I'm sorry...what now? I cut my eyes at Cara, but she seems to be pointedly avoiding eye contact, just looking at Alyse.
[Cara, what are you playing at? I know that you know that I'm looking at you right now. Why are you trying to push your own sister onto me?] (Mizuki)
Cara blatantly ignores my thought message...I'm going to remember that. I look towards Alyse, expecting her to be upset. After all, that was practically a 'get the hell out of town' suggestion by her own sister. Truthfully, I don't understand their dynamic. Alyse really doesn't seem like that much of a problem to me.
To my surprise, Alyse is actually staring at Alto thoughtfully. Alto seems as confused as me, but then Alyse turns to me with a curious expression.
"Mizuki, is that something I could ask for? What would that even mean? What do you all actually do?" (Alyse)
Oh god...don't ask me that. It's like someone just walked into my friend group in college, sat down across from me, told me they were interviewing to join us, then asked for a mission statement. What do I even say to that? We're not some company!
"Uhm...well, I guess you can join us. I'm not sure how to answer your question, though. Honestly, it was just Nina and I at first. Her and I happened to learn about a group of elven slaves in a human country, and I rescued them because I wanted to. For some deranged reason, Alto then decided she wanted to join us, and that obviously rubbed off on Zara. So, it's not like we're a business, we're just friends that help each other out." (Mizuki)
Alyse just gives me a blank stare for several moments, the shakes her head.
"Okay, fine, I'll just take that at face value for now. It's obvious why you and Nina are together, but why'd you bring the others on board? Alto, Zara, and former Princess Alara...what did you stand to gain? Why have you stuck around the Elven Kingdom? Why are you building this train for Cara? I just don't understand what my life would be like if I 'join' you, and what you'd expect of me." (Alyse)
I scratch my head thoughtfully, and scrunch my face in frustration. After a moment, I shrug at her.
"I enjoyed their company, and they had clear personal motivations for joining us. I didn't disapprove of those motivations, and it seemed like pursuing them would make them happy, so we took them in. We're building this train because I see no issue with it, and it's what my friends Cara and Alara wanted. I've stuck around the Elven Kingdom because it's peaceful and my friends are here. That's it...I don't think I'm that ambitious." (Mizuki)
"Okay...so...what would I be doing, then? I'm still not seeing that part." (Alyse)
What am I, her career coach? How the hell should I know?
"Obviously that depends on you. You've been fun company, so I don't mind you coming to live and work with us. That is, as long as Alto and Nina don't mind. But, what you do while there is entirely up to you. If you want suggestions, well..." (Mizuki)
Hmm...I guess there are a few things that we'll probably want inner-circle type people involved with.
"...Alara's been looking for a new guard and advisor. I have guild interests in Elmesia that you could be involved with. Zara is now Elder of the wolf-kin tribe, and wants them to develop – she might need help with that. We'll also be visiting the other demi-human tribes soon for...diplomatic talks. Finally, Alara is getting a port city set up on the western coast, and we might want a liaison to establish friendly relations with the demons through there at some point. That's all I can think of, short-term...does any of that interest you?" (Mizuki)
Alyse just stares at me wide-eyed, like I've overloaded her with information. I see Alto smirk at me in the meantime.
"Of course, I object to you calling my decision to join you 'deranged', Mizuki. As for Alyse, I fully support her joining us, if that's what she wants. Nina, what do you think?" (Alto)
Nina makes a dismissive gesture.
"Sure, it doesn't really affect me." (Nina)
Alto rolls her eyes at Nina, then turns back to Alyse with a smile.
"What do you say, Alyse? Want to come join us in Eden?" (Alto)
Alyse glances between Alto, Cara, and me apprehensively, then settles her gaze on me.
"Uhm...I'm not sure. It certainly sounds more interesting than what I've been doing, but...still. Mizuki, if something happened here in Wellick, how long would it take for Cara to get word to me? Then, for me to get back here? My brother sometimes drops by unannounced to visit briefly, you see, and I wouldn't want to miss him..." (Alyse)
Oh...I guess that makes sense...I did get the impression that they were close. Hmm...well communication will be almost instantaneous now thanks to the MMCs. So, it's just a matter of her getting to Wellick. If she's in Eden, the train will probably take 3-4 hours from when she boards it. So, a day's delay at most? If I'm around, or Nina's around to thought message me, then I can also just teleport her back to Wellick.
"Well it would depend on the circumstances. At most, you'd return the day after Cara sent her message. There's a decent chance that you could return the same day, though." (Mizuki)
Alyse's eyes fly open wide.
"That's it!? How!?" (Alyse)
Oh...yeah, we might have some explaining to do. Best not to mention me teleporting at first, though.
"Well, it will only take three or four hours for the train we build to go from Eden to Wellick. So, from the time you get Cara's message, you could take the train that day or the next day. On that note, there's another magic item that we gave to Cara while we were left alone in her office. It allows her to instantly send written messages to our house in Eden, and vice versa as well." (Mizuki)
Alyse just stares at me, with an expression that I could almost swear is...mildly annoyed?
"You're absurd. You know that, don't you? Everything that's come out of your mouths for the past several minutes...just completely ridiculous. An Elder Dragon wife, wolf-kin and elf friends, advanced cities popping up overnight, magic items that transport small villages across the country in a day, or send messages instantly. What's next...telling me you can fly?" (Alyse)
Alyse's voice is thick with sarcasm, but I already see the excitement on Alto's face. Best to get ahead of that addict.
"Fufufu...if we could take you flying, would that make you more interested in joining us?" (Mizuki)
Alyse snorts, then hangs her head in exasperation. After a few moments, she looks back up at me with an exhausted smile.
"No, you lot are already plenty interesting. Maybe too interesting. As for joining you...can I have some time to think it over? How many days will you be in Wellick?" (Alyse)
"Well, we'll actually be leaving around sunset today. We just came here to give Cara the train and other magic item, and to get to know Wellick better. But that's okay, you can take your time thinking it over and decide later. Just send us a message through the magic item we gave Cara. Or, take the train to see us once it's operational." (Mizuki)
Alyse's expression immediately floods with confusion, and she glances at Alto briefly. There she goes again...what is her deal? She was looking at Alto weird when we first met, too.
"Wait, why such the short stay? I was hoping to get to know you all better. Will you not at least stay the night with us before returning to Eden in the morning? I imagine that traveling wild lands after dark is not particularly safe, even for people as strong as you three." (Alyse)
Does...she not know about the nobles' meeting tomorrow? Cara apparently sent a letter back to warn her inner circle, including Alara, about our impending visit and the train. I just assumed that she mentioned the nobles meeting as well. I turn to Cara with an incredulous look, as Alyse watches in confusion. Cara gives me an embarrassed shrug.
"What? I haven't had a chance to tell them! If I put something that important in the letter I sent, there'd be all kinds of questions about why the meeting is happening! I didn't want to deal with those the minute I got home, you know?" (Cara)
I sigh deeply and return my attention to the bewildered Alyse.
"Basically, Alyse, there's another nobles' meeting in Avalon...tomorrow evening. After dark, we're going to build the train between here and Eden. That way, Cara and her escort can use it to travel to Avalon in time. We also have...other matters...which require our attention in Eden tonight, and we need to prepare for the meeting as well. So, today is the only time we have to spare in Wellick for now." (Mizuki)
Of course, those 'other matters' are just Nina and I having sex, then me picking up Ilina for her nightly sleepover. That's...not really something Alyse needs to know, though. But that does remind me, I'll be gone several hours tonight while I build the new train system. Also, I need to consult Ilina about how to handle the nobles tomorrow.
I groan internally...am I even going to get any rest tonight? I'm jarred from my self pity by a sudden squeak, and I notice that Alyse is the source of it. I raise my eyebrows at her.
"For now, I'm going to ignore that you casually said you can build one of these trains in one night. Instead...are you telling me there's already another nobles' meeting happening!? I've never heard of them being so close together, so something seriously important must've happened. What was it? Also, why are you invited to attend this meeting!?" (Alyse)
Oh yeah, I guess that would be confusing to her. I glance at Alyse, and she's staring daggers into me expectantly. Alto just seems amused. Meanwhile, miss Cara 'I couldn't be bothered to tell anyone' Egris is just giving me an inexplicably smug expression. I can practically hear her saying, 'see, isn't that reaction a hassle?'.
"Yes, and you're correct. In fact, several important things happened. For one, Eden's rapid economic growth, and the train and other magic items that we provided to Alara. I'm sure Queen Elira is anticipating serious criticism from the other nobles about their territories being excluded. So, as the providers of the magic items, naturally we'd be invited to the meeting where their use is being discussed." (Mizuki)
Alyse's eyes squint and she grabs her chin thoughtfully.
"Tch...yeah that sounds like something they'd get twisted over. By the way, it's obvious that my sister knows the truth about you, and now I'm guessing Alara does, too. But who else? Do any of the other nobles? What about the royal family?" (Alyse)
I nod approvingly.
"If 'the truth' means that I'm at least as strong as Nina, and that I'm the unofficial leader of our group, then several people know. In the Elven Kingdom currently, that'd be you, Cara, Alto, Nina, Zara, Alara, Queen Elira and her guards and maid, King Dargo, and Princess Ilina and her guard Klaus. There are also the other elven women who we rescued from slavery, one of whom is apparently Darak Zardo's daughter. It's possible she's told him about me, but I'm not certain." (Mizuki)
Alyse purses her lips thoughtfully, then sighs in relief.
"Well, that's good. I'd have been concerned about keeping this from the Queen, but I wouldn't trust all the nobles either if I were you. So, what are these other important things that happened?" (Alyse)
I glance at Cara nervously, and she's meeting my gaze with similar apprehension. I glance at Alto and notice her eyes on me as well. I direct a thought message to both of them.
[Can, or should, I even tell her about the Empire and Belmod? If she's not a participant at the meeting, Elira and the others may not want other elves knowing, right? At least not about our involvement.] (Mizuki)
I'm expecting them to subtly nod to me or something, but Alto catches me by surprise.
"Truthfully, Mizuki, news that important is going to spread throughout the kingdom whether we or the Queen desire it or not. Even our borders don't keep out information like that. That said, it will take some time, and Queen Elira may appreciate the opportunity to control the flow of information." (Alto)
Alyse looks at Alto in surprise, then turns to me questioningly.
"So, there is something else life-changing going on, and it sounds like it's not limited to the Elven Kingdom. I'm guessing you all are at the center of it?" (Alyse)
I nod apologetically.
"Yeah, but that's pretty much all I can say. Alto's right, this isn't like sharing my own personal information. It's possible that your Queen will want to limit the people who know about it to nobles and their escorts at the meeting tomorrow. I'm sorry I can't be more forthcoming, Alyse." (Mizuki)
Alyse nods acceptingly and sighs.
"Based on what Alto said, I guess that's probably not just an excuse to keep secrets, huh?" (Alyse)
I shake my head with a wry smile.
"No, I trust Alto's opinion, and I have no desire to antagonize Queen Elira." (Mizuki)
Alyse finally smiles slightly.
"Alright, I won't press you for answers then. I think I've done enough of that today, after all. So, what now?" (Alyse)
I give Alyse a big smile.
"Well, for now..." (Mizuki)
I look out at the river in front of us. The sun is gleaming off the water's surface, and we're almost in the center of the city now. A large white marble building is beside us, with elves milling in and out of it, and I can see the Egris family home in the distance.
"...let's just enjoy the rest of Wellick." (Mizuki)
¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬
After we returned to the Egris family home, we all convened in Cara's office to say our goodbyes. I told Cara that we'd leave the the train parked outside Wellick, and that we'd leave the train's control plates on her desk. She's seen how the trains are operated, so I figured it's fine to let her drive herself and her escort to Eden in the morning.
Alyse obviously had no idea about a lot of the implications of those statements, like how control plates would magically appear on Cara's desk, or what control plates are. I just told her not to worry about it until later, when she could ask Cara to explain. She seemed mildly annoyed, but she was cooperative. I privately told Cara that she could answer any of Alyse's questions about me, as long as she didn't disclose the existence of the spell rings.
After that, we departed back to Eden around sunset via teleportation. When we got back, we quickly updated Alara and Zara on the day's events. Naturally, they were surprised that Alyse managed to expose me, but Alara ultimately said it was fine. Apparently, Alyse has a reputation for being capable and straightforward, and Alara thought that she'd be a great addition to the group if she joined us.
Zara was also quite interested in Alyse for obvious reasons – swordsmen will be swordsmen, I guess. Still, I told her and Alara not to get their hopes up, because Alyse didn't seem sold on joining us. I also went ahead and updated our MMC to include the Egris house.
Anyway, after that I was promptly dragged into bed by Nina, barely managing to send a remote thought message to Ilina on the way. I ended up stuck there way longer than I expected...not that I'm complaining. Nina promptly fell asleep in the bed once she'd gotten what she wanted, and I got dressed and made my way to the royal palace. I sneakily updated the MMC in Dargo's office, and now I'm bound for Ilina's bedroom.
I teleport from Dargo's office to her bedroom, after sending her a thought message warning, and I arrive in darkness. As I wait for my eyes to adjust, I feel a pair of slender arms slide around my waist. I hear a deep sigh from Ilina.
"Hmm...today was a long day for me...I missed you. How was Wellick?" (Ilina)
I twist around in the Ilina's arms and slide mine around her in turn. I feel her face press into my chest.
"I missed you, too. Wellick was interesting..." (Mizuki)
I explain all of the day's events, and Ilina just listens quietly, the feeling of her warm breath periodically flooding my chest.
"Honestly, that's pretty impressive of Alyse. You're normally so careful about hiding your abilities. Still, I don't know her well, but it's telling that Alara thinks you don't need to worry about her. My sister isn't without her flaws, one of which is her intense distrust for others, but it works in your favor this time. If she says Alyse isn't an issue, she must be quite certain." (Ilina)
I...don't know if I put that much stock in Alara. I trust Nina's judgement though...I don't think Alyse will share my secrets.
"Well, I agree that we can trust Alyse with my secrets. Anyway, what made your day so long? You sounded exhausted when I arrived." (Mizuki)
"Some of the nobles arrived this evening, ahead of the meeting...including Jorah Abel. Mother said that having me deal with their arrival all alone would be good practice as First Princess, but honestly I think she just didn't want to see them sooner than necessary." (Ilina)
Ilina sighs in exasperation.
"Of course, I was pestered constantly about the subject of the meeting tomorrow. I was also questioned incessantly about you, or more specifically if the royal family intended to do anything about the train you made. Finally, Jorah got the bright idea to start discussing what a 'fine young man' his son is, and trying to set the two of us up during their visit. I almost teleported away." (Ilina)
I know I should be sympathetic...I do. But come on...
"Fufufufu...oh no! It seems I have competition. Shall we duel for m'lady's affections?" (Mizuki)
I feel Ilina's arms tighten around my ribcage, and the strength of it feels...enhanced. Ilina's voice rings out in the dark room, dangerously sweet. With my vision adjusted to the dark I can now make out her silver eyes gleaming like a wolf as she looks up at me.
"Mizuki...don't you think you've caused me enough trouble today?" (Ilina)
I'm...in danger.
"Uhm...hey Ilina...it was just a joke! There's no need to be so, err, ah-" (Mizuki)
I feel Ilina's grip tighten further, and it's actually starting to hurt a bit with only my baseline physical enhancement. She must be pouring most of her magic into that ring....
"I'm sorry, what was that? Were you about to apologize to me for that inconsiderate joke? Perhaps put in some work to take my mind off the terrible day you caused? Was that it?" (Ilina)
"Yes, I'm sorry! Uhm...what can I do for you, dear fiancé?" (Mizuki)
Ilina's grip relaxes and I see a smile form on her lips. She slowly slides her hands up my chest and around my neck, but...it feels strangely threatening. Ilina slowly stands up on her toes, and I feel her lips press against mine firmly. After a few seconds, she pulls away and sighs deeply.
"Mmm...that was a good start. How much time do we have before Nina expects us back?" (Ilina)
Ah...about that. I give Ilina an apologetic look.
"Unfortunately, I have to make the new train system between Eden and Wellick tonight. After I drop you off at our house, I'll need to be gone for several hours to do so. I probably won't get back until you're asleep. I'm sorry, Ilina." (Mizuki)
Ilina purses her lips with a frustrated groan, then she's silent for a few moments. Eventually, she shrugs and gives me an exasperated smile.
"Well, if that's what needs to be done, I understand. How about you take me with you? You owe me some time together, after all." (Ilina)
I raise my eyebrows at her, but she just keeps smiling with an even expression. I'm about to argue with her, but then I remember that I need to talk with her anyway. Plus, it's a long job...some company sounds nice. I nod at Ilina and give her a genuinely grateful smile.
"I'd appreciate that, Ilina. I actually need to talk with you anyway, so...let's do it!" (Mizuki)
¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬
I teleported Ilina and me back to the outskirts of Wellick, where Cara wanted the train station, and began alchemizing a railway west along the Egris River. Of course, I had to put up an invisibility spell at first.
Now, we're about half an hour into our trip, outside of the Egris territory. Ilina is standing on the 'surfing' forcefield, face-to-face with me, and her arms are wrapped around my waist for stability. I notice that she's starting to shiver and press more tightly against me, presumably from the cold, so I cast a heating spell on the air around us.
Ilina stops shivering and looks up at me in surprise, and an appreciative smile spreads across her face.
"Fufufu...thanks." (Ilina)
"Of course. I've got to start making myself useful to my future Queen, right?" (Mizuki)
I look down at Ilina as I smile. I can see her silver hair and dress shining in the unnaturally bright moonlight, giving her an almost ethereal air as she smiles sweetly back up at me. The atmosphere is broken by a sudden darkening of her expression.
"Mizuki...I'd really like if that could be the case. For you to be able to live here peacefully in the kingdom with me, accepted by the elves and supporting me in my role as Queen. Truly, I do. I worry, though...the nobles..." (Ilina)
Ilina trails off gloomily. Geez, she doesn't sound particularly hopeful about our future together. Where did that come from? I thought we'd settled the issue of our relationship and how to handle it going forward. Last time we talked about it, she'd been full of resolve. We'd get her people to accept us, and if it proved impossible, then we'd just exit stage left together and I'd help her support her kingdom another way.
I raise my eyebrows at her questioningly and try to summon a chipper tone.
"Hey, what's with this quitter talk all of a sudden? I admit it's not there yet, but we'll eventually get the support we need to quit hiding our relationship. You have your parents blessing, and Cara and Alara already know about us. That just leaves four of six nobles. Even one or two of those would be majority support for our relationship, right? Darak probably won't be hard to convince, and Helena's reasonable as well." (Mizuki)
Ilina sighs deeply.
"I don't think convincing Darak or Helena will be quite as easy as you think, Mizuki. But even if that were the case, it's not enough. It doesn't matter if you're never King, the Queen marrying a human isn't something that we can have partial support for. The nobles all need to be on board for us to even have a chance of the country accepting it without serious issues." (Ilina)
I feel a pang of anxiety in my chest...I guess I've once again failed to understand the nuance associated with managing a country of people. After that first meeting, I assumed a noble majority was enough, but Ilina obviously thinks otherwise. That doesn't bode well, but...
"Okay...so we'll do that, right? Handling other people is one of the things you're best at. I mean, you were so sure of that, you set out on your own to venture into an Elder Dragon's nest and convince it to protect the elves. Plus, you're almost universally loved by your people. By comparison, the nobles are nothing. One way or another, with enough persistence, I'm sure you can get them all on board." (Mizuki)
Ilina smiles sadly at me.
"I appreciate your confidence in me, Mizuki. Even if you're just faking it, I'm still grateful. But...I'm not so sure I can live up to it. Convincing Darak and Helena is one thing, and believe it or not, I might even be able to bring Jorah around to my side. As much as he hates humans, I can tell that he has a soft spot for me and truly respects my position. But Tessa...she'll never trust a human or respect me enough to override her own judgement. I just don't see a way forward with her." (Ilina)
"Okay, but you never know for sure until you try, right? Besides, if worse comes to worst, we can just do what we talked about. Step away from the royal palace, live out our days together somewhere else in the kingdom, and I'll contribute to your people's prosperity with you. You don't have to be Queen to protect and support the elves." (Mizuki)
Ilina grimaces, and hangs her head in silence for a few moments. I can feel my heart beating, its rhythmic pounding faster than normal.
"After spending some time as First Princess...seeing firsthand what it takes to keep the Elven Kingdom in harmony...I think I was being naivé when I said that, Mizuki. The elves may be fortuitously reserved and docile in their thinking and actions, but they're also cautious and sensitive to change. If I were to exit the royal family, there'd be no heir left. That alone may be enough to seriously perturb our country's peace." (Ilina)
"What about Alara? I know I was the one that wanted her removed in the first place, but she's really come a long way. Honestly, she's making an excellent leader of Eden." (Mizuki)
Ilina shakes her head firmly.
"It's not that simple anymore. It's problematic enough to exile her, then reinstate her, then make her Queen again. But who would manage her now thriving territory, and the magic items you gave them? The wrong hands could violate Azazel's rules, but you getting rid of the train would cause even more upheaval. Plus, how long until an elf attacks you, citing blame for my abdication and everything else? What happens when you kill a hostile elf?" (Ilina)
She's....not wrong. But, what am I supposed to do with a statement like that? More importantly, if that's what she thinks is going to happen, and that's how she feels....
"So...what are you saying? That unless every noble approves of us, you'll need to stay Queen, call off our engagement, and take a different husband for the good of your people?" (Mizuki)
I feel a pang of anxiety in my chest as I watch Ilina's face. She was looking down solemnly, but now she moves her head up to meet my gaze. Her eyes are stormy and conflicted at first, but then they harden as they look into me.
"Oww!" (Mizuki)
I feel a searing pain in my side, and I look down to see Ilina's hand sliding away from the spot. Did she just pinch me!? I look back to her in bewilderment, and see an annoyed expression now firmly on her face.
"What was that for!?" (Mizuki)
"Tch...for being an idiot, obviously! Do you really think I'd just move on from you like that!?" (Ilina)
"I mean...I don't know!? You were saying all those dark things, making it sound li-" (Mizuki)
I feel a searing pain in my side again, and Ilina's face grows angrier.
"Oww! Stop doing that!" (Mizuki)
"Then stop sounding like a moron!" (Ilina)
Christ, harsh much!? What was I supposed to think!? I just stare at Ilina in exasperation, and she sighs deeply and shakes her head at me.
"Obviously, I'm not going to leave you, Mizuki. I know it's selfish, but...I just couldn't bring myself to do it. Even knowing that my country would be in turmoil over it, I don't have it in me to toss our relationship aside. For better or worse....I'm in love with you." (Ilina)
I watch as Ilina averts her eyes from me, and I can see color rushing to her cheeks in the moonlight. For my part, I feel my breath catch in my throat at the exchange. We've expressed a similar sentiment before...love...but this admission from her just feels more meaningful. I can see how much the potential futures before us are weighing on her, and yet she's telling me that the only ones she couldn't bear are the ones where we're split apart.
Ilina glances back up at me furtively.
"You know that I can see that stupid grin on your face, right? Honestly...it's like you're not even trying to hide it. Is this really the time to be enjoying yourself, Mizuki?" (Ilina)
Oh shit, was I smiling? I mean, maybe it's a little toxic of me to be so happy that she'd choose me over her own country, but...who wouldn't feel butterflies hearing that?
"Sorry! I know that your country's future is a serious subject, but...I'm only human, you know? How else am I supposed to react when my beautiful fiancé says something that romantic to me?" (Mizuki)
Despite my best efforts, my shit-eating grin remains plastered to my face as I respond. Ilina just sighs in exasperation, then cuts me a disapproving look. I think it's over my less-than-serious attitude, but...
"I don't know...maybe tell her how much you love her? Don't just leave her suffering in silence after she bears her soul to you like that....just a thought." (Ilina)
Ilina practically grumbles out the last part, and she can't make eye contact with me. She's just too damn cute when she's like this. I don't often get to see her so flustered around me.
"Hey, Ilina..." (Mizuki)
Ilina slowly turns her head to meet my gaze again, and her eyes are mildly suspicious.
"Yes?" (Ilina)
I give a quick glance to the area in front of us to make sure our course is clear for a bit, then lean down and press my lips firmly against Ilina's. She squeaks in surprise at first, then wraps her arms around me, and we stay locked like that for several moments. When we break apart, Ilina gasps abruptly and eyes me with a dizzy expression. I flash my most mischievous smile at her.
"I love you, too." (Mizuki)
Ilina rolls her eyes at me, then lays her head into my chest. After a moment, I feel her arms squeeze me briefly.
"Good." (Ilina)
We stay frozen like that in silence for what feels like ten or twenty minutes, while I slowly adjust our course along the Egris River's bank as needed. Eventually, Ilina takes a deep breath and pulls away. She looks up to meet my gaze once more, and she seems more calm than before.
"Thanks for that, Mizuki, I feel a little better now. Maybe I should have talked with you about this sooner, but we always seemed so busy. I guess I didn't realize how much the stress of the past few weeks had gotten to me. To answer your earlier question, about what I was trying to say...I think I just needed to talk to someone about all of those concerns. Truthfully, I have no idea what to do with the situation we find ourselves in." (Ilina)
That's not good...I was honestly counting on Ilina's expertise to do the heavy lifting for this particular issue. Getting one person to do what I want, I'm competent at that. But winning over an entire group of people with different ideals and personalities, much less a country...I've learned that Ilina's really the one with talent in that regard. Still, I don't want to just leave this issue on her shoulders alone.
"Have you tried talking to Elira about this? I mean, she's been handling the nobles for millennia, right? Plus, she's Tessa's cousin. If anyone might have good advice about winning over the nobles, I assume it'd be her. Your dad is probably no slouch either." (Mizuki)
"I spoke to them briefly, but honestly, my mother isn't particularly gifted at winning people over. Father is, but he agreed with my assessment about Tessa. Mother has managed to keep the nobles in line, but she's done so with an iron fist. That, and using accumulated leverage and favors to bend them to her will, even when they don't truly support her. Unlike Mother, I have neither leverage, stored favors, nor am I some powerful ruler to avoid antagonizing." (Ilina)
"Well I don't exactly have dirt on the nobles to help you twist their arms, but I disagree with one thing. You are a powerful ruler. Or at least, you can be if you want to. You're cunning, full of resolve, and currently the strongest elf in the whole world. I, for one, would not make an enemy of you lightly. If you show that side of yourself to them, not the polite mild-mannered Second Princess they're used to, they may treat you more like your mother. In a good way." (Mizuki)
Ilina sighs in annoyance.
"Now you sound like Mother. She's been telling me that what worked for me as Second Princess won't cut it as Queen. She's adamant that I need to be more assertive and firm with the nobles and other elves in positions of power. I'm not sure that I'm capable of it the same way that she is, though." (Ilina)
Really? Because I have a number of bruises on my side right now, and threatening stares from her in the past that still flood my nightmares on occasion. I cut Ilina a skeptical look.
"Respectfully, you're delusional if you think that you don't have what it takes to be at least as intimidating as your mother. Just look at the way you bully me!" (Mizuki)
Ilina's eyes narrow dangerously.
"The only thing delusional is you thinking that you can keep making comments like that to your sweet fiancé and still outlive her..." (Ilina)
"See! Right there! That's what I'm talking about! I'm going to have nightmares about that for weeks!" (Mizuki)
Ilina rolls her eyes at me in a fashion that I find shamefully lacking in sympathy, then she sighs in exasperation.
"Regardless, interacting with you is different. For one, you're younger than I am...I'm practically a baby in the nobles' eyes. Furthermore, I'm sorry Mizuki, but you're a huge softie." (Ilina)
What is up with everyone calling me a softie lately!? I give her my most indignant huff.
"Hmph...if I'm a softie, it's only towards my friends. That aside, I don't think your age keeps you from being intimidating. As you said, I'm younger than you. Despite that, do you remember how your parents treated me when I was no longer acting like Nina's weak servant? Or how you and Alara did at first? Or even how the spirits and the general of the demons behaved?" (Mizuki)
"Mizuki, you're powerful...to an obnoxious degree. Of course, anyone with a brain would have showed you respect." (Ilina)
"Exactly, and so...are...you! You're no Elder Dragon, sure, but not even Alto and Alara together with their spell rings would stand a chance against you in a fight. Remember how obnoxiously strong you have gotten! Plus, don't forget that I, and by extension, Nina, are loyal to you. Our strength is your strength, too." (Mizuki)
Ilina stares at me blankly for a moment. Then, she suddenly smiles up at me wryly with an expression that's half gratitude and half exasperation.
"Fufufufu...well thanks. Perhaps I am forgetting how far I've come since we met...I'm not the same girl anymore. Still, even if I could make all the nobles fear and respect me, I have no leverage over them. To bring Tessa in line like my mother has in decades past, I'd need both of those things. " (Ilina)
"Any chance that Elira or Cara have leverage on Tessa they'd be willing to give you as a favor? Or Alara? I think her and Tessa used to be relatively close." (Mizuki)
Ilina shakes her head dejectedly.
"Actually, I already asked them all. Tessa is almost as old as Darak, and her house is debatably the most powerful. She also has quite a bit of favor as a recent offshoot of the royal family, and as the noble that guards our eastern gate in Gelrod's Pass. Nobody has serious leverage on her." (Ilina)
I let out a deep sigh.
"Well, that's a bummer. Figures she'd have a tight grip on the reins of her affairs." (Mizuki)
Ilina nods sullenly, then we surf along in silence for several minutes. After a while, she seems to realize something and looks up at me curiously.
"We can put that aside for now. After all, while I would love to get the nobles in line, so we can get officially engaged and finally have Nina's blessing, we have plenty of time to sort all that out. We can endure the frustrating limitations in bed. I just remembered, though, you said you wanted to talk to me about something. What was it?" (Ilina)
Right, I almost forgot after she scared me so much earlier. We do need to have a serious discussion about the meeting tomorrow. I take a deep breath.
"Well, I'm sorry to drop this on you after the stressful conversation we've just finished but...I want your advice. Need it, more accurately. What do you think of me telling the nobles the truth about myself tomorrow? At least, as much of the truth as I can without breaking Azazel's rules. That I'm stronger than Nina, that I lead our group, that I'm a 'tri-class' mage...maybe even that I'm not from this world. I asked Nina's and Alto's opinions, but...I want yours." (Mizuki)
I immediately feel Ilina's hands clench around the fabric of my shirt, and she snaps her gaze towards me. Hey eyes are wide as saucers, and her mouth is hanging open.
"Mizuki!? You're really willing to tell them all of that!? You've...been so secretive about yourself. What's making you consider this now?" (Ilina)
"Maybe...I haven't decided. I'm considering it because my recent actions with the Empire, and my looming actions against the slave trade, are drastically affecting this world. The Elven Kingdom especially so, when you consider the magic items I've introduced here..." (Mizuki)
I trail off for a moment, collecting my thoughts. Ilina's eyes are just studying me intently, patiently, waiting for me to finish.
"So, I don't feel right making further world-altering decisions unilaterally. They should have a say, and more importantly, I might need their help making decisions going forward. After all, I'm not good at managing the welfare of a country, or predicting all the ways my actions may affect one. But at the same time, they can't give informed council if I keep them in the dark about myself. That's why I'm wondering if I should come clean. What do you think?" (Mizuki)
Ilina's eyes are looking blankly towards my chest, darting back and forth, as though she's frantically thinking through everything I've told her. Eventually, her eyes wander back to mine, a conflicted expression on her face.
"I.....that's....I'm a little...I don't know if I can be...objective. I need to think about it. How do you feel about your true self being out in the open, Mizuki? You've spent all this effort trying to get my people to accept you. General hostility toward you has mostly evaporated, but that's only because you don't seem like a threat. If you do this, a large fraction of common elves will look at a powerful human fearfully. What did Nina and Alto say?" (Ilina)
"Nina just said that, no matter what I did, she thought my friends would be happy and the world better off. Essentially, she didn't advocate for either decision. Alto felt that the pros and cons were equally balanced, and that I should ask you since you know the nobles better. She thought that they'll want to hide my true abilities from the public, at least for a while. She also said that revealing my strength shouldn't worsen my dynamic with Tessa and Jorah." (Mizuki)
Ilina's eyes widen at the news, then she bites her lip as she looks off thoughtfully. For a while she remains like that, murmuring to herself every so often.
"...would they really.....no, of course not....maybe if.....yes, yes....in that case.....but why wouldn't....right, obviously....so then....yeah...maybe that's it...." (Ilina)
Ilina's gaze suddenly fixes on me with an unnerving intensity, and despite an otherwise serious expression, I see barely contained excitement lurking behind her eyes.
"Mizuki, if I told you that I think you should tell them the truth about yourself tomorrow, as much as you feel comfortable sharing, how would you feel about that advice?" (Ilina)
"Uhm...I guess mildly comforted? Not so much over the thought of my secrets being revealed. It's the fact that you're convinced there's a clearly better option, to the point of actually giving me definitive advice. It makes me feel like I'm not gambling with our futures." (Mizuki)
Ilina smiles softly and nods, but the intensity in her eyes is only magnified. She leans in towards me ever so slightly, her eyes studying my face seriously.
"So, you trust me, then? I mean really trust me to help you find the best path forward. For example, if I told you to do something without explanation, and with only my word that it was for the best...could you trust me enough to do as I asked anyway?" (Ilina)
Ilina stares at me patiently, expectantly, her face unwavering and her eyes resolute. Do I trust her that much? Would I actually follow her advice blindly, and be okay with it?
I involuntarily replay the time we've spent together in my mind. That first night, how she'd already figured out that I was the one who saved them outside the tavern. The day I took them to meet Nina, where she saw through our charade and calmly declared that she knew we were in cahoots.
That night we freed the slaves, after our little heart-to-heart on the couch, when she swore to take me to her country as a guest and help me get to the bottom of the demon crisis. The day after Alara tried to kill me, when she trusted me enough to follow my plan blindly, and to fight her own sister to take the throne.
The time she finally told her mother that we were going to get married, and nothing was going to stop her. The night when she accepted my proposal without hesitation, even though it was on accident. Finally, earlier tonight, when she looked at me without a hint of doubt and told me that she loved me enough to put our relationship before her own country if it came to it.
A broad smile spreads across my face, and I meet Ilina's gaze feeling calmer than I have all night. I don't know why I needed to think about her question so hard in the first place.
"Yes, I trust you at least that much. I'd be an idiot not to, knowing you like I do." (Mizuki)
The excitement that had been contained behind Ilina's eyes breaks through as an unrestrained smile appears on her face. I feel her cool hands grab my face and pull me in for a brief kiss. After she breaks away, she gives me a confident smirk, and her eyes are shining with resolve.
"Good. In that case, right now I need you to send me back to the mansion to speak with Alto, Nina, and Alara while you finish this train system. After you're done, come find me so I can update you on anything that I need to. Then tomorrow, I'm going to solve all of our problems. You can tell the nobles all about yourself, we'll all come up with a strategy together to deal with the Empire situation, and..." (Ilina)
Ilina's smirk transitions to a mischievous smile, and her eyes darken threateningly.
"...I'll get every single noble's support for our eventual marriage...even Tessa Uril's." (Ilina)
¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬
I slowed my railway alchemizing to a crawl briefly so I could safely send Ilina home. Conservation of momentum seems to apply through the teleportation spells, so sending her into the mansion at a few hundred kilometers per hour would probably be bad for her health.
After I was alone, I finished the railway between Wellick and Eden's northern train station. Then, I teleported back to Wellick and created a train with several passenger and cargo cars. Under the cover of an invisibility spell, of course. When I finished, I dropped the control plates off in Cara's office in the agreed upon spot.
Now, I've just teleported back into the mansion's reception hall. It's been several hours since Ilina and I parted ways, and all the lights are off on the first floor. I summon a light ball for some basic illumination, then start searching the house with magic sense for Ilina's signature. To my surprise, she seems to be upstairs, near the family room, with signatures that I think belong to Nina, Alara, Alto, and Zara.
I make may way to the family room, and I notice light spilling out of its door as I arrive. There seems to be intense debate going on as I approach, but I can't identify the voices or their words. I enter the room, and the conversation dies down as five pairs of eyes turn toward me. Ilina smiles politely to me.
"Oh, Mizuki, you're back? Has it been that long already? I guess we were just about done here anyway." (Ilina)
I nod to Ilina and scan everyone else's faces as I make my way over to take a seat on the couch next to Nina.
"Yeah, it's been a few hours. I guess you all had a lot to talk about? Zara, I see that you got roped into this as well." (Mizuki)
Zara smiles humorlessly and nods.
"With my hearing, I wouldn't be able to stay asleep while they're up here talking anyway. I thought the discussion might be interesting if they were doing it so late at night. Looks like I was right." (Zara)
The mood seems unnaturally tense, and as I study their faces I notice Nina pursing her lips in disapproval. I also sense dissatisfaction from her. That's not how I left her, so something upsetting was obviously discussed.
"Nina, is everything okay? You don't seem happy with the discussion that took place." (Mizuki)
Nina nods emphatically.
"Yes, Mizuki, that's correct. Ilina is suggesting hiding significant information from you...I do not approve of keeping secrets from my mate. I fail to see the need for it." (Nina)
That sounds ominous, but Ilina did mention something along those lines. I promised to trust her if it came to that, and I'm sure she wouldn't hide something from me without good reason. Still, Nina's opinion is important to me as well. I turn towards Alto, who is watching me with a conflicted expression.
"Alto, what do you think? Is there a compelling reason for Ilina to keep this information from me? Do you have any concerns about this discussion?" (Mizuki)
Alto nods thoughtfully in response to my questions.
"I agree with most of Ilina's plans and justifications. I don't think it's an issue to tell you that one of the reasons she wants to hide information from you is because she's worried about your behavior around the nobles tomorrow seeming unnatural at key moments. I agree that them later suspecting you of colluding with Ilina would be a serious issue. It's p-" (Alto)
Nina cuts Alto off with an annoyed voice.
"You see, Mizuki! The idea that you would ruin a simple scheme by being aware of it is preposterous! You've concocted scheme after scheme of your own, and all of them have succeeded. I don't see any benefit to excluding you from this one...it's disrespectful..." (Nina)
So they're worried about my reactions seeming staged? That raises all kinds of questions, but I probably shouldn't ask them right now. The real question is...do I agree with Nina? I'd certainly like to think that my acting skills are up to the challenge, and I don't want to risk ruining something they have planned by accident if they incorrectly judge me.
I glance at Alto again, and I see that she's conflicted, like she's deciding whether to say something.
"Okay, Nina, I hear where you're coming from, and I'm honestly inclined to agree with you. But let's hear what Alto has to say. She looks like she feels differently than me. I trust her, and I want to know her opinion before we go any further. Alto?" (Mizuki)
Alto sighs and looks at me apologetically.
"I'm sorry, Mizuki, but I agree with Ilina. If we are going to put her plan in action, it would be best for you to know as little as possible. You're good at feigning certain emotions, but you're not the best at deciding when you need to do so. For example, you have a bad habit of forgetting to feign fear over things that scare normal people. Also, don't forget that Ilina was routinely suspicious of your schemes early on...you can slip up. Several of the nobles are exceptionally perceptive, and it's likely they'd pick up on something in your responses." (Alto)
Ouch...that hurts my pride a bit. She's right, though...early on in our relationship, Ilina was constantly inferring the truths I was trying to hide from her. While I don't think any of the nobles are quite as perceptive as Ilina, some are close enough to be trouble. Darak, for example.
I glance at Ilina, and she's just looking at me with a calm and confident expression. I guess she's already read me like a book. I sigh deeply and nod.
"Okay, I understand. Nina, I'd hate to admit it, but Alto's right about my shortcomings. I trust her and Ilina, and if Ilina's plan can really accomplish everything she claims, then me being in the dark is a small price to pay. So, I'm on board with this decision. Do you have any concerns about Ilina's plan that relate to its chances of success?" (Mizuki)
Nina looks conflicted for a moment, then shakes her head reluctantly.
"No, Ilina's plan sounds reasonable. As clever as your schemes, even. I just don't like secrets between me and my mate. But if that's what you want, I'll respect your decision." (Nina)
I nod at Nina appreciatively, then turn to scan the others' faces.
"So, what do I need to know about this plan of Ilina's, and the events tomorrow?" (Mizuki)
Alto looks at Ilina pointedly. After a moment, Ilina nods hesitantly, then turns to me.
"Alto has expressed concerns about one part of my plan, and she's insistent that we speak with you first. If you aren't okay with it, then I have alternatives for accomplishing everything I promised. However, it would make things significantly easier, both at the meeting and in your future interactions with the elves." (Ilina)
I direct a hesitant look at Ilina.
"Okay....let's hear it..." (Mizuki)
"Well...how sure are you that you're actually human?" (Ilina)
I'm sure the shock shows plainly on my face. What kind of question is that!?
"Pretty sure. The only race on my home planet is humans, and nobody there ever questioned that I was human. That includes my own parents. Haven't we been over this, like multiple times? Why would you ask me something like that?" (Mizuki)
Alto is quick to interject.
"Mizuki, what Princess Ilina means is...are you sure that you're the same race as the humans on this planet? I understand that your respective races seem to call themselves the same thing, and there are similarities, but are you truly one of them? You have eyes that none of them do, and don't even get me started on your difference in magic abilities, or how your contract with Nina has changed you. Maybe those things aren't as obvious as pointy ears, but they're considerable differences." (Alto)
I raise my eyebrows in surprise. I.....guess she has a point. Although, except for my eye color, I think the other differences are largely environmental. Magic classes outside your natural aptitude assessment can obviously be learned, like with Alto.
I did think that magic power level variations were largely genetic at first. After all, Azazel said that human transfers from planets with less magic than Azura tended to have higher-than-normal magic power levels here. That seemed like a good argument for humans evolving over time to take in magic more efficiently depending on the levels of it on their home planet.
In theory, the different humans would have evolved to similar levels of average magic proficiency on their respective planets – whatever minimum degree helped them survive significantly better. Then, humans transferred from a planet less rich in magic than Azura, who had evolved to take in and store magic more efficiently by necessity, would get a sudden power boost in the relatively magic-saturated environment of Azura. At least, that's what I thought before.
However, considering my abilities, I've had to largely discredit that theory. After all, Earth has zero magic, so there's no selective pressure for humans there evolving more efficient magic use. Of course, it's technically possible that I have some one-in-a-million genetic fluke that was inconsequential on Earth. But that'd also raise the question why the same mutation has never presented itself in the entire history of Azura's human population.
So, it seems exceedingly likely to me that magic power development is largely environmental. That's not to say that it's like magic class, where it can be learned or trained. More so, what I imagine is that more magic in the environment is somehow detrimental to developing humans' adult magic capacity. In other words, if you're conceived, born, and/or raised in a magic-rich environment, it stunts your ability to take in and use magic efficiently.
I have no definitive evidence for this, of course, and it hinges on a single test subject – me. But still, that's what the circumstances suggest. There's probably some genetic influence, since the humans growing up on Azura together can vary significantly in magic power level. Similarly, Elder Dragons have anomalously higher magic power levels than the humans on their home planet, and they're allegedly just modified versions of those humans.
I've even thought of a clever little research project that would let us estimate how much genetic versus environmental influence there is on magic power level, and test my guess about magic-rich environments being detrimental to it. I just haven't yet had the time it will require to carry out. Anyway, that's a worry for a later time. For now, I need to focus on Ilina's/Alto's question.
Do I think I'm the same race as Azura's humans?
When I'm really critical of the available information, the only strong evidence against us being the same genetic species is my anomalous eye color. Honestly, that's not much. Some populations of certain ethnicities on Earth could be subject to the same criticism, where they are predominantly or entirely brown-eyed. So at the absolute most, that might justify classifying us as different sub-species. Plus, Azazel's translation skill identifies us both as 'human', which is its own kind of evidence that we're not fully distinct species.
On the other hand, comparing our appearance aside, how much invisible genetic drift has there been between the humans on Earth and Azura? It's probably been eons since we branched off from the same ancestral population of humans, assuming that there was one. How many genetic differences have piled up in our time as isolated colonies?
Looking at it that way, Azura's humans and elves are considered a different species, but I'm quite confident that they are extremely similar genetically. Maybe even more similar than Azura's and Earth's humans. Furthermore, the Elder Dragons are considered a separate species, even though they're modified humans. Honestly, my understanding of Nina's and I's contract is that, on some level, I also have some of those modifications now. So, by those two lines of logic, it's at least possible that I'm technically a different species than Azura's humans at this point.
Hmm....so, how do I answer Ilina and Alto? I can't provide all that science-y justification right now, since Zara and Alara are here. That's way too much forbidden information. But I do want to talk it out with Alto later, especially to get her involved in that research project. Still, that's an issue for another time. So, in that case...
"Ilina, Alto...I guess to answer your shared question...I don't know. I think that most of the differences between us are the result of being from different planets. I think it's reasonable to call us different sub-races, like elves and high elves, but I have a hard time convincing myself that we're fully distinct races. That said, I'll at least acknowledge that I can't know for sure, especially after how my Dragon Bond with Nina altered me. For example, it's possible that Azura's elves are in fact closer to being the same race as Azura's humans than my planet's humans are." (Mizuki)
Alara leans forward on the couch with an unhappy expression on her face. I have little doubt what that's about.
"Mizuki, Alto mentioned this theory of yours to us earlier as well. Is it true? You think that our people used to be human? I must say, I am not a fan of this idea." (Alara)
I nod sympathetically, though I don't feel a shred of sympathy over this bothering her.
"I'm fairly certain that must be the case, yes. Mind you, I'm not saying that your people emerged directly from Azura's humans. In fact, that's probably unlikely. Either there are or used to be humans on your home planet that the elves emerged from, or your people are related to humans from an entirely separate planet. Still, you have to be fairly closely related to Azura's humans." (Mizuki)
Alara makes an expression that's more bitter than skeptical, so I guess she mostly believes me. Apparently, others want to weigh in, though, just in case.
"Like Alto, I also found Mizuki's theory believable, Lady Alara. From what Nina has told us, elves and humans can have children, such matings are just unheard of. By contrast, the wolf-kin are regularly...exploited...by the humans here. Yet, you see no such mixed offspring anywhere. That's because demi-humans can't have children with humans, nor with demi-humans from other clans. My understanding is that the same is true for dwarves. It seems the only other race on Azura that can have children with humans is Elder Dragons, and Nina says that a god created them from humans. I think the implication for the elves is clear." (Zara)
Alara looks down at the ground, and I think I hear her grumbling, but Ilina suddenly claps her hands to get everyone's attention.
"I think we can all agree that our people's likely relationship to humans is startling, and I for one am annoyed to be hearing about this from someone other than Mizuki..." (Ilina)
Ilina pauses briefly to give me a disapproving look. I do feel bad about not mentioning something that existentially important to the elves' future ruler and my future wife, but...I forgot!
"...however, we've gotten off topic. This was about whether Mizuki considers himself the same race as Azura's humans. Mizuki, if you're already revealing your abilities and origins from another planet to the nobles, I think it'd be more convenient to also convince them you're not human. The elves would fear a powerful human because they've only known bad humans, but if you were a powerful non-human who's only helped them, you'd be no different than Nina. However, Alto was concerned that you wouldn't agree to identifying yourself that way." (Ilina)
Ilina stares at me, waiting for me to weigh in, and Alto smiles at me sympathetically. Alara, Zara, and Nina just continue watching us three.
So, Ilina wants us to just say I'm not human, huh? Or at least, not the same race as the humans on Azura. I admit, Alto's assessment is correct, though. I really do view myself as human...I just can't see myself as anything else. However, there's an even more important reason why I'm hesitant to cast aside my humanity, even in name.
"Ilina, Alto's right. It's not just because I really do consider myself human, it's also because I want the races of Azura to coexist peacefully one day. For that to happen, the races need to start empathizing with one another. I thought that, being human, the other humans might listen to me more, and the elves might finally accept that humans can be good if I treat them well. If I start claiming that I'm not human, that all goes out the window." (Mizuki)
Ilina gives me a sympathetic expression.
"I'm sorry, Mizuki, but I think you're being naïve in that regard. Even if it were true that the humans will listen to you and see you as one of them, which I doubt, I'm sure your logic about the elves doesn't apply. Being so close with Nina, you're already too much of an anomaly. Honestly, any elves or other non-humans that befriended you have likely come to see you as other-than-human, rather than changing their opinions about humans as a race." (Ilina)
Before I have a chance to wonder about Ilina's assertion too long, others start piling on.
"Fufufu...I confess, Mizuki, I have not truly considered you human since that first day we met." (Nina)
"Sorry, Mizuki, but I'm living proof of Ilina's point being correct. I think more than any other elf, or maybe any non-human, I went from loathing you from the bottom of my heart, to now admiring you and considering us practically family. Honestly, that's because at some point I stopped associating you with those humans. On a fundamental level, I feel the same way about humans I always have. Now, I just try to be respectful towards them out of consideration for you." (Alara)
I sigh internally...that's not reassuring, but those two's opinions aren't exactly a surprise. Both of their reactions to seeing me for the first time was to murder me just because I'm human. I turn towards Zara, preparing to point out that the wolf-kin consider me human. Yet, they were accepting of me even after all they've suffered from humans. However, Zara seems to infer my intentions and shakes her head firmly, then speaks in an even tone.
"No, Mizuki. The wolf-kin are no different. Sure, they'll call you human, but in their minds you are the exception not the rule. Truthfully, when you're not around, they don't call you human...they call you grav'durak, which means 'sheepskin-covered wolf'. Some have even started rumors that you are actually a god of destruction, disguising yourself as a human." (Zara)
What!? Why is this the first time I'm hearing of this!? Zara seems to be suppressing a smirk over her last statement, and Nina looks entertained as well.
That aside...have I really made zero meaningful progress on fundamentally closing the rifts between the races? I sigh deeply, feeling my resolve over the issue wavering, and I turn to Alto hopefully.
"Alto, can I assume that you at least agree with me? Since you're the one who insisted that I be told about this ridiculous part of the plan." (Mizuki)
Alto grimaces, then meets my gaze nervously.
"No, Mizuki...I'm sorry. I insisted on discussing this part of the plan with you first because I knew how you'd feel about it. However, I agree with the others. Our time together has shown me that you identifying as a human won't further the goal you speak of. If anything, it may hinder it, since the word 'human' will instill fear in the elves that don't know you personally. If it's any consolation, I think that human adventurer, Levi, may be able to do what you're hoping for if you help him. Honestly, he's probably the only human on Azura with my true respect." (Alto)
Christ...so even Alto thinks this way? I don't know why, but realizing how different my friends perception of me is from my own, I feel a little uneasy. The last of my resistance to the notion that I'm a racial outcast on Azura cracks, and I slump into the couch. I stay that way for several minutes, thinking over what I've heard, and none of them say a word to me. They seem to recognize that I need time to process this.
All four of my closest advisors just told me the same thing, or at least implied it. They don't think of me as human by Azura's standards, and they think that me clinging onto the notion that I am is only hindering things. That's really the gist of it.
What am I supposed to do with that? Honestly, I'm not sure. But I know that if I were to abandon my human identity like they're suggesting, there's one important question I need answered first.
I take a deep breath, sit up straighter on the couch, and return my attention forward.
"Okay, everyone, I hear you. That's honestly hard to accept, but...I trust you all. So, I'm trying my best. There is one thing I have to know, though. If you all don't consider me human, what do you consider me? More importantly, Ilina, what race do you want the elves to identify me as? I'm sure it's not reassuring to them to just classify me as a 'non-human of unknown variety'." (Mizuki)
They all smile at me without hesitation.
"I consider you my best friend." (Alto)
"Fufufu...I consider you 'a Mizuki'." (Alara)
"My mate, naturally. Nothing else matters." (Nina)
"I suppose...my mentor." (Zara)
These motherfuckers...that's almost enough to make me cry. I feel my spirits lift a little bit at their responses. On Earth, the sentiment of rejecting someone's humanity is rather negative, but I guess that's not really how the people of Azura see it. I'm not sure if I can quite accept a non-human identity yet, but this does take the edge off that idea. Still, I notice that one person has been rather silent.
I turn to Ilina, and I see her smiling at me thoughtfully. She nods her acknowledgement to my questioning gaze and takes a breath before responding.
"To me, personally, you're just the man I love. However, what I know as 'human' is hard to apply to you. Regardless, I agree that identifying you as only 'non-human' to others won't suffice. I've given it some thought, and I think it needs to be a race that's believable for your situation, but with a history that the elves will view positively. At the same time, the race can't be too well known, or else it will be refuted. I still haven't decided on what would be best...any ideas?" (Ilina)
Ilina turns to the others as she poses the last question, and Nina's face immediately lights up.
"Ooh, ooh! We can say that he is a dragonid! Those are the rare offspring of Elder Dragons and humans. They look human, but they have the power of Elder Dragons. If we said that, on his home planet, his father was an especially powerful Elder Dragon, and his mother was a gifted mage, that might explain his power level and diverse magic. Plus, after our contract, he is similar to one, and he has the same eyes as me. If we're also telling everyone that I've chosen him as a mate, that will make his heritage even more believable. Fufufu...aren't I a genius?" (Nina)
I don't want her to be offended by the shock on my face, but...yeah. She's right, that is kind of genius. Did she really just come up with that on the spot? Or, has she been planning something I don't know about...
"Wait, seriously!? That's happened before!? Does that mean that you two will have human-looking children, and they're also going to be at least as strong as Elder Dragons!?" (Alara)
"If I was told this story at the beginning of our relationship, I would have believed it easily." (Zara)
While I eye Nina suspiciously, and her ego is slowly propelled to further heights by Alara and especially Zara, Ilina and Alto remain silent. Noticing this, I glance over and see them exchanging thoughtful glances. After a few moments, Ilina seems to make up her mind about something and shakes her head.
"I think that's a good idea to keep in mind, Nina, but it's not ideal for our situation. For one, it still leaves Mizuki being identified as half-human, which may be enough for the elves' prejudice to remain. Also, as Alara just demonstrated, the elves aren't aware of these 'dragonids' or their history, so they have no existing impression of them. If possible, we should try and come up with an alternative that the elves are at least somewhat aware of." (Ilina)
Alto begins nodding absentmindedly.
"Those are my concerns as well. That said, Nina, it was a brilliant suggestion. If we can't think of anything else, then identifying Mizuki as a dragonid is our best strategy." (Alto)
Alara is glancing between Nina and me frantically, probably wondering why we didn't address her question about our hypothetical children. However, something seems to occur to her, and her face immediately calms. Then, she faces Ilina hesitantly.
"Hey, Ilina...it's not like we have much information about them, but...do you think that we could pass Mizuki off as a Nephilim?" (Alara)
Ilina's face briefly twists in confusion, but then her eyes fly open wide in shock. She leans forward on her couch towards Alara, and inhales sharply.
"Alara, yes! Why...why didn't I think of that!? That's perfect!" (Ilina)
Well...I'm deeply confused. I glance around the room, expecting someone else to know what the hell they're talking about and explain it to me. However, Zara, and even Nina and Alto, look just as confused as me. Nina also looks a little miffed, probably because Ilina was more enthusiastic about Alara's suggestion than hers.
"Hmph...what is a Nephilim? I have never heard of such a creature, so it's quite hard to believe that it could be a better fit for Mizuki than what I suggested." (Nina)
Wow...she's not even hiding her pettiness.
"I agree...I'd like to consider myself well read, and I'm an elf just like you two, but I've never heard of such a race of people." (Alto)
Alara and Ilina turn toward the rest of us, and Ilina's eyes are alight with excitement. Seeing her sister's distracted gaze, Alara takes the lead with a nod.
"That makes sense...most elves haven't. It's only the high elves – those closest to the royal bloodline. In truth, the Nephilim are more of a myth at this point – so little information about their race has survived in elven record, especially after our transition to Azura. The only written story of them is possessed by the royal family, and it's practically a fable. However, Mother, Tessa, and probably Darak would know that fable." (Alara)
Well, I'm glad I'm not the only one in the dark, at least. Still, for a race that's kept meticulous record of even their planetary transition and interactions with Azazel, that's a strange lack of information for the elves to have about an entire race.
"So, what does this fable say about them?" (Mizuki)
Alara looks to Ilina, as if urging her to answer, and Ilina nods excitedly.
"Well, I've told you before that elves were the only sentient race on our original planet. However, the story says that wasn't always the case. Countless eons ago, near the dawn of our very race, we shared the planet with the Nephilim. They were few in number, but ageless and immensely powerful. Perhaps even more so than Elder Dragons. In fact, they were known by another name – 'divine children' – and were rumored to be children of our original planet's god, Nedilir. Curiously, the fable describes them as looking like elves, but with strange ears." (Ilina)
The implication that the Nephilim were essentially demi-gods is interesting enough, but that last part really catches my attention. Nina, on the other hand, looks almost offended by the implication that this race of Nephilim were stronger than Elder Dragons. I'm not going to give her the chance to digress this conversation though.
"So in other words, if ancient elves had seen a human for the first time with power like mine, they may very well have described them that way. Huh...I can see why you think this is a good cover story for my race. Still, if it isn't just a story, what happened to these Nephilim? It's hard to believe something that powerful could vanish from your people's history so thoroughly." (Mizuki)
Ilina shrugs.
"We don't know. The story only says that, almost overnight, all the Nephilim disappeared from our original planet without a trace. It's also noted that Nedilir used to visit the planet personally on occasion, but stopped doing so after the Nephilim vanished. For the same reasons you expressed skepticism, the story is often discounted as myth." (Ilina)
Well, I agree that it sounds suspiciously light on information, but...creation myths and other things of that nature are normally more detailed. Fanciful, even. Earth's stories of great disappearances that are shrouded in mystery like this often have some basis in reality. Perhaps the same is true here. Although, I shudder to think about how an entire race of people almost as strong as gods vanishes without a trace.
Regardless, while that's a promising lead for races I could masquerade as, it does leave one question unanswered...
"So, that all checks out in terms of me fitting the description of a Nephilim, but why would convincing the elves that I am one be particularly beneficial? If most of you don't even know about this fable, then I'm failing to understand that part." (Mizuki)
Ilina nods agreeably.
"You're right. The reason it would be beneficial is their reputation, known to those key elven nobles – particularly Tessa. Allegedly, like Elder Dragons, the Nephilim wielded strange, incantation-less magic that was unknown to the elves. They used this strange magic to bless the ancient elves with many wonderful gifts. For this reason, they were adored by the elves, to the point that some even worshipped them as gods. You see where I'm going?" (Ilina)
I can't help but let out a bark of laughter at the irony.
"Hahahaha...I'm a strange being from another planet, who's stronger than the Elder Dragons and wields unknown incantation-less magic, and I've been rescuing elven slaves and giving you all trains and MMCs. As soon as people like your mother, Tessa, and Darak learn the truth about me...I'll be the spitting image of the Nephilim. They won't be able to help but wonder if I'm truly some benevolent myth brought here by fate to help the elves." (Mizuki)
I continue laughing maniacally, and Ilina rolls her eyes at me.
"Well, you sound deranged when you laugh about it like some evil mastermind, but....yes. That's pretty much what I think will happen. That's why I was so excited when Alara reminded me about them. Even if you just tell the truth – that you don't know yourself as a 'Nephilim' – the similarities are too compelling. They'll involuntarily hope that it's true." (Ilina)
Alara starts giving me a strange look.
"I agree. Honestly, the more that I think about it...are we sure that Mizuki isn't a Nephilim? Seriously. What if they were real, and they just all moved to their own planet eons ago? They were powerful enough. Hasn't Mizuki said that his people are the only sentient race on their planet? Plus, based on what he's told me about their knowledge, they certainly seem special." (Alara)
I'm about to shut her down, but Alto quickly shakes her head and interjects.
"No, Lady Alara, I don't think that's possible. There are other things about Mizuki's people which make it clear that they're not these Nephilim. For one, the Nephilim were supposedly ageless, but Mizuki's people have natural lifespans. Plus, Mizuki would probably be aware of this story already if he was a Nephilim, but he wasn't. I think any similarities are coincidences." (Alto)
Well, if these Nephilim really existed, and the elven fables accurately describe them, I think coincidence is a bit of a stretch. I'm clearly not an actual Nephilim, nor are the people of Earth, but it's very hard for me to ignore the similarities. I think it's plausible there's some commonality between us that I'm missing, but I don't know what that could be.
"Wait, but I thought Mizuki is ageless? Also, Alto, has anyone ever told you that you're overly formal? Please just use my name from now on when we're in settings like this, with people Mizuki trusts. I insist." (Alara)
"That goes for me, too, Alto. Please stop calling me Princess unless we're in a formal setting. I view you more as my fiancé's best friend than a subject, so the formality is...uncomfortable." (Ilina)
Alto nods her approval, but her lips are pursed, as though the concession is difficult for her. I have to stifle laughter at her persisting deference toward the royal family. Her, Ilina, and Alara are friends now, so I agree with the idea that she should be less stiff with them.
"Very well. In that case...Alara...the answer to your question is yes. Mizuki is ageless, as you've been told. However, that's because of his relationship with Nina. Nina calling him her mate isn't just a characterization of their intimacy. They performed a ritual that's typical for mated Elder Dragon pairs. The result was them both growing stronger, closer, and gaining abilities from one another. This seems to have included agelessness for Mizuki." (Alto)
Alara's eyes widen in surprise, and she turns to Nina, as though waiting for confirmation. Nina smiles smugly.
"Fufufu...Alto speaks the truth. It also worked out quite well for me. I went from being the weakest Elder Dragon to crushing Veyron easily, and I'm now the only Elder Dragon I know of with magic abilities from both elemental and dark class. Plus, I have Mizuki..." (Nina)
Nina gives me a flirtatious smile, but...that last part seemed almost like an afterthought. Before I can think on it further, though, Zara interrupts the conversation with a loud yawn. I glance over to see her stretching lazily on the couch, and her eyes are starting to look sleepy. I'm really trying not to draw parallels to a puppy, but...it's a pretty adorable sight.
"I'd hate to be pushy, but...how much do we have left to discuss? We have a big day tomorrow, and the days after won't be easy either, so we should get some sleep. Yet, this conversation is starting to wander again. It sounds like Mizuki isn't actually one of these Nephilim, but he's close enough. So, can we just ask him if he's okay being called one, tell him what he needs to know for Ilina's plan, then go to sleep?" (Zara)
She's as tactful as ever, I see, but she's right. Ilina seems to agree, and she nods apologetically towards Zara. Nina just looks amused at Zara's bluntness.
"Yes, Zara's correct. We should wrap up this discussion if possible. It's already quite late. Mizuki, what do you say? I won't ask you to outright claim so yourself, but are you at least okay with abandoning the characterization of 'human', and letting the elves believe you're a Nephilim?" (Ilina)
Quit calling myself a human, huh...not something I would've imagined myself ever doing until today. It honestly still sounds ludicrous, but...
I look up at the others seriously, studying each of their faces in turn.
"Just to confirm...you all seriously think I'm not human? More importantly, you all think that me taking on the identity of a non-human race is what's best?" (Mizuki)
One-by-one, all my friends nod their assent firmly. Nina smiles in amusement.
"Mizuki, dear, this seems to be hard for you, but that's just the way things are. Whatever you may have called 'human' on your own planet, I've now met 'humans' from four other planets. I can assure you...you stick out from all of them. At least as much as you can't see yourself as non-human, we can't see you as anything else." (Nina)
I sigh deeply and nod to the group, then put on my most confident smile.
"Well, then...I guess I'm okay with this part of Ilina's plan. And if I'm going to assume a non-human identity, being known as one of these Nephilim sounds as good as anything else. So, Ilina, tell me what I need to know for tomorrow." (Mizuki)
Ilina smiles gratefully and nods.
"Of course. It's best if you don't know too much, but there are some basic things I want you to keep in mind..." (Ilina)
She proceeds to outline parts of her plan tomorrow at the nobles' meeting. First, she's going to arrange it so that the discussions happen in specific stages. To begin, we'll let the nobles air any grievances about the train and Eden's rapid growth due to our special treatment. She said to handle it however I see fit, but that she guesses I'll adamantly deny their requests for their own trains. At least for now, and given the stakes, she's right.
She wants me to specifically avoid revealing my abilities or discussing the MMCs during this phase of the meeting. She says that she'll take care of letting Elira and Dargo know to avoid revealing the MMCs, and that we should let Cara know the same. However, she doesn't think that we should tell them anything else about our plans before the meeting.
Meanwhile, I reiterate to everyone that the spell rings are never to be revealed without my express permission. Thankfully, everyone seems to already be under that impression, and Alto assures me that she made sure to put Cara under the same impression after she recently learned about the spell rings. Ilina makes similar assurances about her own family. Genuinely, I appreciate their foresight on the matter. That's one thing I plan to never reveal to the elves.
In the next phase of discussion, we'll inform the nobles about Belmod and the situation with the Empire. Since that will obviously raise questions we can't fully address without the truth, Ilina thinks it's best for me to reveal my abilities then. However, she wants me to delay revealing that I'm an alien, non-human, or ageless. Eventually, she plans to declare that we are romantically involved and intend to get married.
At this point, all hell will break loose, and the discussions will enter their final phase. Ilina is most secretive about this part, and expects to do most of the talking herself. She just says that she's going to secure the nobles' support, that my extraterrestrial origins will be revealed, and that things might get 'a bit abrasive'.
She also puts a strong emphasis on the fact that, as long as I trust her fully, everything will work out as she promised. Honestly, that in particular gives me a sense of foreboding about tomorrow. It's almost like she expects that something she does will drastically undermine my faith in her...I'm not thrilled about what that could mean.
After she accomplishes what she wants, she expects that there will be residual discussion. Especially about the situation with the Empire, but also about the MMCs, my history, specifics of our engagement, and who knows what else.
"So, do you have any questions for me? Any concerns?" (Ilina)
She's kidding, right?
"Well, yeah....I have tons of concerns. Like, I'm concerned about everything we'll be doing tomorrow. I don't think talking about them anymore will fix those concerns, though. As for questions..." (Mizuki)
I look around the room at everyone, and most of them are just watching me intently.
"We're about to turn our entire dynamic with the Elven Kingdom upside down tomorrow, and I won't be the only one affected. So...I just need to hear it one more time. Is everyone on board with what we've discussed?" (Mizuki)
I stare at each person in sequence, and they all smile and agree. I don't sense hesitation from any of them. I sigh deeply...I guess that's that.
"Well, I think that settles it, then. If there's nothing else, let's all go get some sleep. After all..." (Mizuki)
I smirk at Ilina, and she stares back at me suspiciously.
"...it seems that this will be my last night as a human." (Mizuki)