After the two lovers finished their love-making, they headed towards the palace's library. It hadn't stopped raining at all after the funeral.
Naoto- It's still raining.
Kouha- I hate the rain. It ruins my hair & clothes. The rain is a totally something I don't want to be caught up in.
Naoto- Especially turbans no?
Kouha- Yep.
Naoto- It can't be helped. You like being presentable don't you?
Kouha- Well yeah. Just imagine my clothes & hair being all tattered. It'll be the end of me.
Naoto- Yes, the world would end if you ever got drenched in your favorite outfit.
Kouha- Are you being sarcastic?
Naoto- Maybe. *smiles*
Kouha- Eh~ Then maybe I won't go so easy on you next time we do it.
Naoto- Ah yes.
Kouha- What?
Naoto- You were gentle this time.
Kouha- Of course. I turned it down so I wouldn't hurt you.
Naoto- Thanks. It makes me quite happy to know that.
Kouha- *smiles* Hm.
As they walked & talked throughout the outer halls, they arrived in front of the library's door.
Kouha- I wonder how En & Mei will react when you tell them that you're from Sindria, even though you're not.
Naoto- *looks down* ... I am from Sindria.
Kouha- But-
Naoto- I may not be Sinbads biological daughter... *looks at Kouha* But I do know that my father... that everybody in Sindria shared their true feelings with me. Besides, *smiles* I'm a magician so I can easily detect whether they lie to me or not. Even if I am a magician, just by being with them, I can tell just by looking at their faces that they wouldn't lie to me without a reason.
Kouha- *looks surprised* ... I see. You really trust them then?
Naoto- Yes. Nevertheless, when I find out where I'm truly from, then maybe... I'd like to visit it some day.
Kouha- When you do, I'll go with you.
Naoto- *smiles kindly* Thank you, Kouha. Now then, we should probably go in already. I wouldn't want to keep your brothers waiting. So I'll try to present myself very quick but suttle.
Kouha- It's fine.
Naoto- Are you sure? It's nighttime, & the raining might not stop until later.
Kouha- It'll be alright, beside, I have to go over an important topic with them so it'll take time.
Naoto- If you say so. 'It seems like they're going to talk about Magnoshutatt'.
Kouha grabbed Naotos hand & opened the doors. Naoto was amazed by the many shelf's which were close together that it looked like a maze. They were filled with scrolls & books. Some seemed to be old & new. As they walked deep towards the center of the room, Naoto saw Kouen sitting down at a desk which was topped with scrolls & books that were organized. Koumei stood while holding a few scrolls.
Kouha- Hey En, Mei.
Koumei- Kouha... *looks at Naoto* & this is?
Naoto let go of Kouha's hand & walked up to Koumei & Kouen.
Kouen- You're the one from earlier.
Koumei- Now that you mention it, I remember seeing her with you Kouha.
Kouha- You forgot Mei?
Koumei- You can say that.
Naoto- Yes. At that time I couldn't very well present myself due to all of us being in a hurry. But now we can *smiles*
Kouen- You said that Hakuryuu & Kougyoku studied under your Father.
Naoto- That's correct. You see... I am the Conqueror of the Five Lands. Princess Naoto, Sindria's first princess. *crosses arms & smiles confidently* Daughter of the Great Sinbad.
Kouen- Should've known.
Naoto- So you knew who I was from the beginning?
Kouen- It came to me after what you said earlier today. Hakuryuu was sent to learn under Sinbad in Sindria, so hearing you say "Father" made me realize that you weren't an ordinary person.
Naoto- Thank you for noticing the intent behind my words.
Kouha- So you said that on purpose!?
Naoto- Mhm. When I saw your brother Kouen, I knew that he was a man that could catch up on the smallest things. Sharp & precise, just like my Father.
Koumei- Did she just compare Kouen to Sinbad?
Kouha- *puts arms behind head* She's amazing isn't she? Naoto has guts, just another reason as to why I fell for her.
Naoto- Actually, he was the one who made me realize my feelings for him. I apologize for talking about this in front of you both, Lord Koumei, Lord Kouen.
Kouen- It's a miracle to see that Kouha actually found someone special to him. He's a good man.
Naoto- Yes, *smiles happily* I agree.
Koumei- In that case, if you continue being Kouha's lover, then one day you'll be betrothed & married. Meaning that Sindria has no choice but to ally themselves with us.
Naoto- ...
Koumei- Why don't you say something, Lady Naoto?
Kouha- Actually Mei, she-
Naoto- It's alright Kouha.
Kouha- You sure?
Naoto- Yeah.
Naoto looked at both Koumei & Kouen with a serious calm expression.
Naoto- In all honesty... We would actually be glad to unite ourselves with the Kou Empire.
Kouha- What?
Koumei- *frowns* Is she being serious?
Naoto- Although my Father may not agree with me on this matter, I think it's an agreeable conclusion we can come to. Wouldn't you agree, Lord Kouen?
Kouen- It'll be a true revelation to come together with Sindria & the Seven Seas Alliance.
Naoto- But?
Kouen- It'll ruin our plans.
Naoto- Your plans to take over Magnoshutatt, *raises brow* correct?
Kouha- You knew about that?
Naoto- *lowers head* Before we met actually. *turns to Kouha* I'm sorry I couldn't tell you
about it. Before I departed from Sindria, I looked into my crystal ball. That crystal ball is infused with magoi. *takes crystal ball out BAM* The magic bestowed upon it allows it to predict what could happen in the future. It only shows symbols, & through those symbols the ruhk tell me the possibilities of what people's actions might conjure, & what might happen... *looks at Kouha sincerely* That's how I found out Kouha. Again, I'm sorry for not telling you all this time. Of course when I saw this in my crystal ball, I didn't tell anyone or else my father wouldn't let me go to Magnoshutatt.
Kouha- ... I
Naoto- *waits patiently*
Kouha- I believe you.
Naoto- *sighs in relief & smiles* Thank you.
Kouha- I know you wouldn't ever lie to me. You're a woman who isn't easily tricked by men. En, Mei, it took me two months to have her fall for me. & yesterday she let me do it with he-
Naoto- *places hands over Kouha's mouth* You don't have to tell them that!
Kouen- Hah, *pleasantly smiles* it seems you're no threat to us at all.
Naoto- I'm not?
Koumei- It's rare to have someone make my older Brother laugh.
Naoto- Laugh? But he only said "hah".
Koumei- No no, that's En's laugh when he's assured of someone being our ally, or, when he's
taken an interest in someone as well. You must have pleased him by showing him how Kouha reacts towards you. Others have feigned ignorance around the royal family when Kouha brings a woman to play with. Though, to see Kouha believing in a woman surely means that you've gained his full trust. Hence, also gaining my older brother Kouen's trust, & mine.
Naoto- I see, *bows sincerely* I thank you for trusting me. Still, *looks at Kouen* it seems you won't comply with my request.
Kouen- I won't.
Naoto- Then I did all I could here. Prying at it any longer will lead to nothing.
Kouen- Then I'm glad this discussion has come to an end. *stands*
Kouen walked over to Naoto & bowed to Naoto.
Koumei- Brother?
Kouen- Welcome to the Kou Empire. & our apologies for not introducing ourselves first. I am Ren Kouen, first prince of the Kou Empire. *gets up*
Koumei- & I'm Ren Koumei, second prince of the Kou Empire.
Naoto- *bows back* It's a pleasure to meet you.
Kouen- Are you a magician?
Naoto- Huh? Uh, yes. Why?
Kouen- Was it alright to leave Magnoshutatt & your studies?
Naoto- I don't need them. There were a couple of things that I needed to learn. The rest I already learned back in Sindria.
Kouen- Are you saying you're powerful?
Naoto- No. As I told the second high priest Isham, there could be someone else who's even more stronger than I. *looks at Kouen & grins* You may be stronger than me, but we'll never know if we don't engage in a battle of course.
Koumei- She's actually challenging Kouen?
Kouha- I wonder what En will say.
Both Koumei & Kouha were eager to know what Kouen's response to Naoto would be. Then...
Kouen- Then we'll have a match tomorrow in the morning before Kouha departs to Magnoshutatt.
Naoto- *smiles* Hm, can't wait then. *turns to Kouha* I think I'll head back now.
Kouha- Don't you want me to walk you back?
Naoto- It's fine. I've already memorized our way from here to your room.
Kouha- Won't you get lost?
Naoto- If I do then I'll have the ruhk guide me.
Kouha- I'm worried that you'll run into that creep again.
Kouen- "Creep"?
Kouha- That Isham guy! Why the hell is he here En?
Kouen- Isham? Did he do something to you?
Kouha- He got near Naoto!
Naoto- All we did was talk while having tea you know.
Kouha- Still!
Naoto- Are you doubting me?
Kouha- No way! I just hate it when guys like him get near you. Better yet, any type of guy.
Naoto- *sighs* Kouha, if they do something disrespectful to me then I'll just beat them to a pulp.
Kouha- I know you will. Trust me, I have faith in you & haven't doubted you for a single second when you're apart from me. I just don't want to loose you.
Koumei- *whispers* They're in their own little world.
Kouen- This is interesting.
Naoto- *smiles gently* That's why I fell for you Kouha. Because you're kind, strong willed, & you care about your followers, the Kou Empire & your family. Other than that, you're the first one who showed me what "love" is, aside from love of friendship or family.
Kouha- *smiles* Naoto.
Naoto- You know what. If it calms you down, I'll transport some of my magoi into you.
Koumei- Wouldn't that kill Kouha?
Naoto- It won't. I don't mean to boast but, *smiles proudly* I am a first class magician. I know of a spell that I can use to induce my magoi into him, & to have his magoi accept it. That is, *looks at Kouha* if we have a strong connection to one another, then our magoi will mix together. *looks back at Koumei & Kouen* I have a friend, he too has two kinds of magoi in him. Though, he doesn't seem to be aware of who's it is. Naturally, telling him would be a form of cheating. He himself has to find out who it is, accept it, & join it with his magoi the most sincerest way he can.
Koumei- I can see why Kouha loves her.
Kouen- *nods* Hm.
Naoto- Now, since this is magic we're talking about, it's the shortest way to go. I know how Kouha feels about me, & forgive me for saying this, but yes, he took my virginity. After six months, I let him.
Kouen- & he held himself back that long?
Naoto- *grins* Why yes. Or else a red flag would arise from him wanting to take my virginity in a week or so if we met without barely getting a chance to know each other. Even so, yesterday we connected in a more special way.
Koumei- How did waiting make you feel Kouha?
Kouha- It was aggravating! But, *looks at Naoto* it was worth it. Waiting got me what I really
wanted. *smiles & places a hand on Naotos cheek* & that's Naoto.
Koumei- *whispers again* Though honestly Kouen, she really is that priest's sibling, right? They look alike.
Kouen- ... She is.
Naoto- Okay. Shall we begin?
Kouha- I'm ready.
Naoto- *nods*
Naoto placed a hand on Kouhas chest. Both of them closed their eyes, then a small golden bright light began emitting between Naoto's hand & Kouha's chest.
Naoto- *murmurs a few words in another language*
Kouen- *raises brow* Hm?
Then the light disapeared. Kouha opened one eye slowly to be reassured. Naoto then slowly opened her eyes & smiled.
Naoto- Done! Now that my ruhk is in you, whenever I'm in desperate need of help, you'll know.
Kouha- *hugs Naoto tightly & sighs in relief* I'll be able to be at ease for a bit. Thanks.
Naoto- *smiles* Mph. *hugs back*
Koumei coughed so the two lovers knew that they weren't alone.
Naoto- *blushes* I-, I'm terribly sorry! *bows* Pardon me for my disrespect Lord Kouen, Lord Koumei.
Kouen- There's no need to be formal with us anymore.
Naoto/Kouha/Koumei- Huh?
Koumei- He's letting her be informal towards us?
Kouha- *smiles widely* En!
Kouen- Kouha, despite the fact that she's from our enemy country, I can see how greatly important she is to you. From now on, we'll see her as part of our family.
Kouha & Naoto looked at each other with a pleasant smile on their face.
Koumei- Not to be rude Lady Naoto.
Naoto- Naoto is fine.
Koumei- Yes, um... Naoto, if you don't mind, will you go back to Kouha's chamber? We need to discuss about Magnoshutatt.
Naoto- Not at all, then is "Koumei" & "Kouen" fine for me to use?
Koumei/Koumei- Yes.
Naoto- *smiles* I'm glad. I'll be leaving then Kouha. Do you want me to stay up for you?
Kouha- Nah, you can go to sleep if you want.
Naoto- Not happening. After what happened this morning, I think I'll wait for you.
Kouha- Then wait patiently. *kisses Naoto on the cheek*
Naoto- Yes yes, *sighs*. I'll see you guys tomorrow then.
Koumei- Good night La-, I mean Naoto.
Kouen- Yes, goodnight Naoto.
Naoto- *smiles* Hm, goodnight.
& so Naoto left, leaving the three guys behind to talk about Magnoshutatt.
Kouen- ... We'll also accept her as your betrothed.
Kouha- But I still haven't proposed to her.
Kouen- You should do it before you leave then.
Kouha- Well, during the funeral she did say she couldn't be with me in the front because she wasn't part of the family yet. Naoto said that unless we got married or proved herself trustworthy to the family & be accepted by you guys, then she wouldn't attend our family events.
Koumei- She has respectable morals then.
Kouha- She does Mei. Naoto sticks to her morals & doesn't break them. She managed to make me be the one chasing after her... & to make me worry so much.
Kouen- Kouha.
Kouha- Yes En?
Kouen- You have found someone who's undeniably precious to you. *places a hand on Kouha's shoulder* How can we not accept her, when she's clearly someone you've been looking for all this time.
Kouha- *smiles* En. I'll propose to her tomorrow after you battle.
Koumei- In that case, after our meeting over your stay in Magnoshutatt, I'll take you to the treasury room so you can find a suitable proposal ring for her.
Kouha- Thanks Mei.
Kouen- Now that this is over with, lets begin.
Kouen, Koumei & Kouha began to discuss. Naoto who had already left, walked through the outer halls. It was still raining which she was enjoying. She was thinking about all that's happened today, about Isham, how weirdly he acted when he started talking about his sister. & also about how Hakuryuu seemed to be changing. After a couple of minutes later, she returned back inside. Naoto was going in the same direction that she came from with Kouha. When she turned a corner, she saw Hakuryuu walking slowly her way with his head down.
Naoto- *runs up to him* Hakuryuu!
Hakuryuu- *turns around slowly* Naoto?
Naoto- The one & only.
Hakuryuu- *looks away* I see...
Naoto- Is there something wrong? You look down... *notices he's drenched in rain & beaten up*
What happened to you?!
Hakuryuu- ... It's nothing.
Naoto- "Nothing"? You've obviously been beaten up. Just look at your clothes.
Hakuryuu- ...
Naoto- *looks at him & sighs* Hakuryuu. I'm your friend. After being with you, even for just a few months, I can tell that you speak your mind with true honesty. You're someone who abides by his morals, someone who my father wants to help. Other than that, you're too serious that you're even concerned about the smallest things. You're quite pessimistic as well around people who notice your weakness, or so Aladdin says. You also take criticism seriously.
Hakuryuu- ... *looks at Naoto*
Naoto- But you care greatly for your sister...*smiles* You're someone who's precious to
Aladdin, Alibaba, Morgiana & me. We'd all definitely help you when you need it. Especially Morgiana, or so I could feel when she told me you guys said goodbye back at the Aktia Kingdom.
Hakuryuu- Ah! Y, -yeah. About that-
Naoto- It's alright. I know you like her.
Hakuryuu- How did you know?
Naoto- When I asked her what had happened when you both said your goodbyes, all she did was blush. The ruhk around her turned all pink, like you back at Sindria. Right then & there, I figured out what might have happened. Although, she started to think other wise about your feelings later at night.
Hakuryuu- She what?
Naoto- Heh heh. Alibaba & Aladdin went to a night club, & apparently Morgiana followed them once I turned around to see if she was behind me, since she wasn't I then decided to follow her. Long story short, she overheard Alibaba saying sweet things to the working girls at a nightclub that he'd make them his queen, how he loved them & what not, after that she got mad.
Hakuryuu- *makes a shocking face* I-... I see. 'That idiot!'
Naoto- You can't blame Alibaba of course. He's hard headed at times, but he's kind & does things without the intention of hurting anyone... Sometimes.
Hakuryuu- He's still careless.
Naoto- Yes that's true, yet he takes responsibility for it afterwards. What happened is now in the past.
Hakuryuu- *looks a bit down* Hm
Naoto- ... I take it that that's not what you're worried about, is it?
Hakuryuu- ... What would you do, if someone you truly cherished... *looks at Naoto with cold eyes* Wasn't on your side anymore?
Naoto- That's a hard question. *grabs chin* Hm~, what would I do indeed?... *smiles* I'd simply ask.
Hakuryuu- Huh?
Naoto- Isn't that the right thing to do? Instead of simply hating them or being left with regrets of not asking them why is it that they acted like that towards us? It's counter intuitive to what people usually do. Jumping to conclusions, over thinking things. It all stops you from doing what you want, which is what you do mostly all the time. However, everyone is different. In my case I would ask, though the heart can change if something affects us greatly.
Hakuryuu- ...
Naoto- Would you mind telling me?
Hakuryuu- ... My sister Hakuei.
Naoto- Did something happen to her?
Hakuryuu- No... She continues to put her faith in Kouen.
Naoto- That's a bad thing?
Hakuryuu- It is! Back at the Aktia Kingdom, I remembered... remembered that it was my mother who killed my brothers & father. She killed the people I looked up to & cared deeply for!
Naoto- *looks around* We should probably talk somewhere more privately.
Hakuryuu- ... My room is close by. Will that do? Or is Kouha going to get mad?
Naoto- If he gets mad then I'll get mad at him for being jealous. So I doubt it.
Hakuryuu took Naoto to his room, which was on the other side of the palace building they were in. Once they got there, she was quite amused to see that Hakuryuu's room was as simple as him. But she liked simplistic things.
They sat down in his living room & resumed their talk.
Naoto- So that woman Gyokuen, killed your brothers & father?
Hakuryuu- Yes. When I told Hakuei, I only confused her, but it seemed like she knew in a way. I know she's aware of everything that's been happening around her. I told her that since I now have Zagan, we'll be able to destroy the Kou Empire... & take back the nation that my father has built with all his fiber. But...
Naoto- But what?
Hakuryuu- *looks at Naoto* She still holds on to the hope that Kouen has of uniting the world as one, that he would never allow a civil war to arise! All he's actually doing is taking other countries by force just like Balbadd & the Kouga tribe! *stands up* My sister says they accepted her & her goodwill, & that they discarded the hatred in them. B-, but that's impossible right?!
Naoto- Hakuryuu...
Hakuryuu- Besides, it's not like you can get rid of that hatred in an instant! *gets closer to Naoto* The only option is to get rid of the ones who caused that hatred to be born within you! They all blindly believe in Kouen! He's just using everyone as a pawn!
Naoto- ...
Hakuryuu- ... If that doesn't convince you, then you should know that it was the Kou Empire who attacked your magician village after Kouens father became Emperor of the Kou Empire.
Naoto- *stands up* How do you know about my village?!
Hakuryuu- *sits back down* So you found out? 'How could she after Sinbad had her memories erased?'
Naoto- Mhm... *sits back down* In Magnoshutatt, I found a book with the history of every magician clan & village that was found. Apperantly my village was one of them. A drop of blood fell on one of the pages & it activated the clairvoyance magic that was placed on the book.
After Naoto explained everything to Hakuryuu.
Naoto- After seeing that, I didn't want to believe it. I didn't even tell my father when I contacted him. That's another reason as to why I'm here. *looks into Hakuryuu's eyes* To find out if the Kou Empire really did attack my village, & if they killed my "parents".
Hakuryuu- What will you do when you see the truth for yourself?
Naoto- ... I'll probably accept it as it is.
Hakuryuu- 'How can she accept that? They killed her parents! ... Should I tell her that Sinbad had her memories erased? If I do, then she'll try to attack the Kou Empire & it could give me an advantage in destroying it.'
Naoto- Hakuryuu.
Hakuryuu- Yes?
Naoto- When you told me about hatred not being able to be dispersed so easily. I think you're wrong.
Hakuryuu- What?
Naoto- Like I told you before. We're all different in ways of thinking. I think it's best to communicate with others & come to an agreement. You think otherwise. Or so my father has told me when you asked for Sindrias aid in splitting the Kou Empire, & just now.
Hakuryuu- Then you won't help me?
Naoto- I never said that. If my father says that he'll support you, then I will too. I am your friend after all.
Hakuryuu- *smiles* Thank you. But you're Kouha's lover, won't he strongly disagree with you? You will be going against the Kou Empire if you help me.
Naoto- *crosses arms* We'll have to see about that.
Hakuryuu- ... Do you know that Kouha has been with other women?
Naoto- Yeah. I was surprised at first, but I knew that that was in the past. No man has ever made me fall in love before. I'm convinced that he would never cheat on me, since everyone is shocked by him letting me stay in his room & how he trusts me.
Hakuryuu- That is a shock. 'He's probably just using Naoto as well. But she's probably been tricked into believing in what he says.'
Naoto- *stands up* I should get going. Thank you for telling me about what's been bothering you. If you need to talk to anyone, I'll always lend an ear.
Hakuryuu- No. *hugs Naoto* I thank you for listening to me, & for telling me that you'll be by my side.
Naoto- *returns a friendly hug* No problem.
Hakuryuu- *lets go of Naoto* One more question before you leave.
Naoto- What is it?
Hakuryuu- Do you think I'm useless, for not being able to protect my one & only family member?
Naoto- ... *smiles* Not at all. After all you've done to assure her safety, you're not useless at all. In fact, you helped us tremendously back at the Aktian Kingdom. Despite turning on us after being controlled by Umm Madaura, I never saw you as useless. Neither has Aladdin, Alibaba or Morgiana. They told me themselves, that even after your battle with Al-Tharmen back at Zagan's dungeoun, you weren't in the way of anything.
Hakuryuu- ... Thank you.
Naoto- *nods* I'll see you later then.
Hakuryuu- Goodbye.
...
?1- Isn't she a goody goody.
?2- My sister has always been the type to place the feelings of others before hers, Judar.
Judar- She can at least loosen up a bit.
Isham- Trust me, you'll see how ruthlessly she kills.
Judar- Can't wait.
Hakuryuu- Isham... You told me that Naoto was used before in the past for detestable reasons.
Isham- I did, &?
Hakuryuu- *looks at Isham w/ eyes of determination* No matter what, I want to save & protect Naoto from Kouha, & the Kou Empire. From anyone.
Isham- *extends hand & smiles* Good choice of words there Hakuryuu, then I welcome you.
Hakuryuu- *takes Isham's hand*
Isham- From here on out, we'll help each other out. Since our lives were ravaged by this predetermined "fate", we all have the right to dismantle the ones who made us into who we are today. *lets go of Hakuryuus hand* Judar, Hakuryuu, from now on, all three of us will plunge this damned world into despair.
Judar- I'm glad I met you. & hey Hakuryuu! *puts arm over Hakuryuu's shoulder* You made the right choice in cursing your fate. It's like I told you, your hatred can only get you so far, so it's better this way. Don't you think so?
Hakuryuu- It is, the only way.
Isham- Those are all the answers I wanted to hear from someone like you. In spite of being weak, with the power of the black ruhk, your power will increase immensely. You'll be able to protect my sister.
Hakuryuu- *nods in agreement* 'I'm sorry Morgiana. Although, I know you'll never be with me, even if I curse my fate... Most likely, you'll choose him... Alibaba. Naoto... she even said it herself... that she'd stay by my side, no matter what. Even if I curse my fate... I'm sure she'll stay with me. All I need to do now, is take her from Kouhas control... then she'll be mine... I'll save her.'
BACK TO NAOTO!
Naoto walked back to Kouha's room. When she was half way there, she saw a woman who had a mole near her chin just like Hakuryuu. That's when Naoto remembered seeing her at the funeral that morning & that she was Hakuryuu's sister, Hakuei.
Naoto- *stops walking* Are you Hakuei?
Hakuei- I am. & you are?
Naoto- My name is Naoto. *bows* It's a pleasure to meet you.
Hakuei- So you're Naoto! Hakuryuu has told me about you.
Naoto- *straightens herself* He has?
Hakuei- Yes. He told me that you & him are alike in many ways.
Naoto- It's true. We both stick to our morals, we greatly respect those who we deem worthy to respect, we cook &, *smiles* we have precious friends.
Hakuei- It pleases me to know that my younger brother has a friend like you.
Naoto- The feelings mutual.
Hakuei- Well, it was nice meeting you. I pardon myself for our short meeting, but I have to go.
Naoto- To see Hakuryuu?
Hakuei- Not exactly. I have other things to attend to.
Naoto- I see... Um.
Hakuei- Yes, what is it?
Naoto- I don't mean to get into a siblings quarrel, or to pry into your personal lives. *looks at Hakuei* I'm positive you know your brother better than anyone else, that's why, try to understand him. I don't have any siblings, so I have no idea what it's like to get into an argument with one by blood. But back at Sindria, I have people who are like brothers & sisters to me, so I do my best to listen to them or know what's wrong so we can come to an understanding. Even if we discuss or not, we all know each other like the back of our hands.
Hakuei- *makes a surprised face & giggles* I-, I apologize. It amazes me that you care about Hakuryuu to such an extent. It proves you're a person with a kind heart.
Naoto- *blushes a little* Thank you.
Hakuei- I hope to see you soon. I have to get going, but I'm sure we'll have time another day.
Naoto- Me too, take care.
& so Hakuei left. Now Naoto was able to go back to Kouha's room. When she finally got there, she changed into the pajamas that were laid out for her by the maid. She cozened up into the bed & waited for a while. It looked like Kouha was going to take some time, so, she fell asleep.
Morning came. Naoto turned to see if Kouha was beside her. He wasn't, only a piece of paper. She sat up & began to read.
Kouha- 'Sorry I couldn't be there when you woke up, but I made sure to kiss you a lot & massage your breasts. Did they grow by the way? I feel like they did. Guess it's from all the sucking & groping I do to them. Anyway, I needed to wake up earlier so I could get ready to depart. Breakfast is ready in the living room & I made sure that our cook made a lot of food for you since you have the biggest appetite for a woman I've seen. When you're done, En said you should meet him at the training area' - R. Kouha.
Naoto- Honestly, he should've told me last night before I left the library. Hm, *smiles while looking out the window* though I can't wait to battle the mighty preeminent Kouen.
She finished getting dressed in her new outfit, finished eating, & was ready to leave. Until the eye of the ruhk began emitting light.
Naoto- Who is it this time? *grabs the crystal ball* ... Aladdin?
Aladdin- Hi Nao! It's been a long time hasn't it?
Naoto- It's been a week & a half since we last saw each other actually.
Aladdin- It still feels like it's been forever. T^T
Naoto- I agree. How are your class-
?- Aladdin, we have to go! *walks up to Aladdin* Marga wants to buy ingredients so she can help us cook tonigh-ah! Naoto?!
Naoto- What are YOU doing with Aladdin, Titus?!
Titus- Heh, can't you see? *puts arm over Aladdin* We're friends of course.
Aladdin- You know Nao, Titus?
Titus- Mhm. She's the one I told you about. I just forgot to tell you the name of the person I despised.
Aladdin- No wonder. When you said you knew of a "know it all witch", you actually meant Na-
Titus covered Aladdin's mouth.
Naoto- A "witch", huh?
Titus- Eheheh...
Naoto- Forget about it. So what made you guys become friends? Won't lady Scheherazade scold you for not-...
Titus- ...
Naoto- Never mind. I'm glad you're having fun at least. *smiles*
Titus- Uh... *blushes & looks away timidly* Th-thanks.
Naoto- So who's Marga?
Titus- She's... *looks at Naoto w/ a smile* She's a young child who's special to me.
Naoto- That pleases me. It's gratifying to know that you have someone special. In spite of our past arguments, I am content on this progress that you've made.
Titus- Thanks.
Naoto- Does Scheherazade know?
Titus- She does.
Naoto- Knowing her, she must have been irate at the mention of you having a young child that you're taking care of. Though, it's the choice you made. So protect that child as if she were your own. '& just like how Scheherazade should be doing... but then again, she's only been a mother to Reim & not a real person with such a short life span'
Titus- *nods in agreement* Mm.
Aladdin- That's right! You said you knew Scheherazade when you talked about your adventures back in Sindria. I remember that you only told Morg & me since Alibaba & Hakuryuu weren't with us at the time.
Naoto- Yes. It's been four years since I've met her. It'll almost be five years, considering the fact that I'll be turning eighteen.
Titus- You're that old?
Naoto- Shut it! I turned seventeen a few days after meeting Aladdin & his friends. I basically had a month to know them, Then six months passed, so now I have two more months before I turn eighteen! Now then, back to Lady Sheherazade! When we met, I could see that she was a very contemplative person. Though, she does have a kind & child-like side to her.
Titus- She does?
Naoto- It's true. You haven't seen it because it requires time for her to fully open. The image of taking your onus seriously, & of being prepared for anything is what she wants her people to see. I'm sure that in time you'll see that amiable side of hers.
Titus- ... *looks down in sorrow* Yeah
Naoto- 'Titus...' *makes a gloomed expression*
Aladdin- Hey Nao, when are you coming back?
Naoto- In a few days. All I need to do is to find what I am looking for. Though it has to be today.
Aladdin- *smiles widely* I can't wait then! 'Nao, was it really a good idea to go to the Kou Empire to find out about your past?'
Naoto- I'm sorry, but I have to go now. It was good to seeing you Titus, & that you've changed. I bet it was Aladdin & that young girl that changed you, right?
Titus- As always, you excel at knowing everything.
Naoto- Naturally, I know my friends well.
Titus- Friends?
Naoto- Don't tell me that you've never thought of us as friends? Even if you were an arrogant, & ignorant person to how others feel, or how to form bonds, I thought of you as a friend.
Titus- *blushes* Naoto...
Naoto- *smiles* Goodbye for now. I have to go. I'll see you all soon.
Titus- See you!
Aladdin- Hurry back Nao!
Naoto- *nods* I will. *turns off the eye of the ruhk* ... Except, *looks out the window* when we see each other, the Kou Empire will be in war with Magnoshutatt.
After saying this, Naoto got up & headed towards the training area. She didn't know where it was... So she asked a guard because Kouha left out that major part in his letter. When she got there, the only ones there were Kouen, Koumei, Kougyoku, Hakuei, Hakuryuu, Isham, Judar & Crescent.
Naoto- Crescent! *hugs Crescent* are you doing well? I'm terribly sorry that I forgot to see you. You must have been lonely.
Crescent- Kaw! *nuzzles against Naoto's cheek*
Naoto- Are you here to support me?
Crescent-Kaaw~
Naoto- You're such a good boy.
Kouen- I was surprised to see him roaming around. That's when another Kou Soldier came around & informed me that he was yours.
Naoto- *bows* Forgive Crescent for his misbehavior. *looks at Kouen with a smile* He always does this when he doesn't receive attention from me for a while.
Kouen- It's alright. As long as him or anybody didn't come into harm. I take it that he's also your household vessel?
Naoto- He isnt. Nor do I ever want him to be one. I never needed a household vessel to begin with.
Kouen- Hm.
Naoto- I almost forgot, sorry if I was late.
Kouen- It's fine. As long as we battle, nothing will faze me.
Naoto- *giggles*
Kouen- What is it?
Naoto- I'm sorry, *smiles wide* for a moment you just reminded me of my father. He doesn't mind people being late as long they complete what they must.
Kouen- I seem to relate to your father quite a bit, don't I?
Naoto- Not really. Getting to know you a bit yesterday proved to me that you're opposite to my father. Aside from the stories that I hear about you, you're your own person so, *looks at Kouen* all in all, you're completely different from my father *smiles*
Kouen- I see...
Kougyoku- Naoto! I heard that you were going to battle my older brother Kouen.
Hakuei- I was quite surprised when I heard that you were going to challenge Lord Kouen. I'm all the more astonished to know that he allowed you to call him by his name, both him & Lord Koumei.
Naoto- As much as I like to be formal, there is a time & place to act like it when need be.
Hakuei- So I was told.
Naoto- *smiles* Hm
Isham- Hello, Naoto.
Naoto- Ah, Isham. Goodmorning, to you too as well Hakuryuu.
Hakuryuu- I hope you slept well, Naoto.
Naoto- I did, thanks for asking. But... who may you be?
?- The name's Judar. I'm the first high priest.
Naoto- *walks up to him* You're the high priest? *bows* It's an honor to meet the Kou Empire's magi.
Judar- Thanks, but how can someone like you go one on one with Kouen? Look at you, you're small. Someone like you will be squashed by someone of his callibur.
Naoto- *looks at Judar w/ a smile* I may look fragile, yes. Though weak? We'll never know until we find out now won't we?
Judar- *smirks* You have guts, for a munchkin.
Naoto- "Munchkin"? *laughs*
Judar- Why're you laughing?
Naoto- My bad, I've never been called a "munchkin" before. *smiles wide while blushing a bit*
Judar- ... *grins* 'She really doesn't remember. As expected from King Moron. But I have called Naoto "Munchkin" before, & trust me, it got me going when she refused the nickname but now... she has me going even more'
Isham- Naoto, I hope you can forgive me if I caused any misunderstandings between you & Kouha.
Naoto- Don't worry, you didn't cause any trouble. Now then, *turns to Kouen* in our match, would you prefer using our metal vessels, or just swords?
Kouen- You have a metal vessel?
Naoto- Five.
Kouen- What? Magicians can't use a metal or household vessels. So how are you able to?
Naoto- ... *smiles* I haven't a clue.
Kouen- Hm...
Naoto- I was born a magician, after being denied to capture dungeons by my father, I still entered a dungeon & learned that I can use metal vessels. Knowing that I, a magician, was able to use metal vessels, they've put me through tests & have gone through extensive inquisitions & experiments to know why I can use metal vessels.
Kouen- ... I see.
Koumei- Who knew Naoto could use metal vessels.
Hakuei- It is a surprise.
Kouen- Well then. For now we'll fight with just our swords. You may use your metal vessels if you feel that you'll lose. 'I wonder... How much power she holds'
Naoto- That's fine by me. I haven't used them in some time, so I'll take our match as a warm up.
Kouen- Confident are you?
Naoto- Very.
Kouen- Let's get started then.
Naoto- *nods*
They walked to the center of the battle field & took their place a few feet apart from each other.
Naoto- 'I wonder just how strong you are, Kouen. I'll make this an equal battle by not using my magic.'
After Naoto was in position, she immediately ran towards Kouen. The speed at which she ran was like lightning. With full force, she clashed swords with him.
Kouen- 'Such a strong attack. It doesn't even look like she's putting much effort into it despite her full force. It's obvious that Naoto has more to her than just this.'
Naoto- *yawns* My my, for the mighty Lord Kouen, I figured that you'd have way more in you in order to push such a frail girl like me back.
Kouen- Don't be, *pushes Naoto back w/ sword* although you shouldn't be too confident. You may just lose.
Naoto- I don't intend on losing to someone like you!
Naoto, with her quick agility ran up to Kouen.
Naoto- *grins* Psych!
In that moment, she disappeared.
Koumei- Where is she?!
Hakuei- 'She's right behind him!?'
Kouen- *notices & turns around to counter attack* 'Her drive was more quicker.' Did you use magic?
Naoto- Certainly not. I decided to make this battle fair by not using magic at all. Non-magicians like you can't go against me, not even with your metal vessels. It takes brains to know how to beat a metal vessel user.
Kouen- How kind of you to do that.
Naoto- They don't call me the Conqueror of The Five Lands for naught.
Kouen- *smiles* Hm. Then show me.
Naoto- *smiles*
Kouen- Not just at half strength, but at full force what you can truly do!
Naoto- Very well. I'll favor you in using my full strength without a metal vessel.
Naoto then put away her spear & stood in a close combat stance.
Naoto- Don't mind me. I'm going to battle you this way, so feel free to use your sword. *smiles*
Kouen- Very well then.
Naoto closed her eyes & concentrated. Then she opened them, & again like lightning she ran to Kouen & from the back, she tried to land a hit on a specifc part of his back.
Kouen- *blocks it again* Ugh!
Naoto- Nice.
Naoto took a few steps back.
Naoto- I've beaten people in seconds, but you & my father are a challenge.
Kouen- So I'm at the same level as your father...
Naoto- Yes. 'Though my Father could beat you in seconds'
Naoto saw that Kouen was in thought but aware of his surroundings. She darted at him & was able to hit his stomach before he blocked it.
Kouen- *coughs blood*
Kougyoku- Brother Kouen!
Hakuei- She finally hit him.
Judar- Guess she's not weak after all. 'Like always, she doesn't disappoint'
The three boys, Isham, Judar & Hakuryuu who were standing a bit separated from the others spoke.
Isham- Naturally. Even then, she was above all... She was above him as well.
Hakuryuu looked at Isham from the side & looked intently at Naoto.
Hakuryuu- Nevertheless, our priority is to take this nation back, the world & to protect Naoto.
Isham- Yeah... though you now seem infatuated with my sister, *narrows eyes at Hakuryuu* don't you think?
Hakuryuu- ... Hm *says while looking back at Naoto*
Isham- ...
Naoto- I hope that didn't hurt much.
Kouen- Heh *smiles while wiping the blood off*
Kouen got up & charged at Naoto with his sword. She quickly dodged him as if nothing. He kept striking her with different sword moves. It was all useless, Naoto would just simply move away from them, no matter how close he was to her.
Kougyoku- Isn't brother Kouen getting tired after all this time?
Koumei- Now that you mention it, *looks closely* he does seem to have a bit of sweat.
Hakuei- Ah yes, where's Kouha Lord Koumei?
Koumei- Kouha? He had to go prepare his squadron that will be deployed & set out to Magnoshutatt while Kouens men stay in the rear. Though he did say he would try to come so he could watch.
Hakuei- Oh. *looks at Hakuryuu*
Hakuei noticed her brother looking only at Naoto & not Kouen.
Hakuei- *Loooks at Naoto* Naoto, she really is strong... Just like Hakuryuu said.
Koumei- I agree. But it does irritate me that she's making my brother sweat in such a short time.
Naoto- *strikes Kouen's back* Here we go.
Kouen- Tch!
Naoto used the new martial art moves that Myers taught her on Kouen. Kouen who looked like he was about to fall, stood tall again.
Kouen- 'Now's the time I should use my metal vessel. I never imagined her being this powerful without magic or weapons. Of course, it doesn't mean she'll beat me easily. But she did give it her all.' ... Astaroth!
Naoto- I see, so you'll use your metal vessel this soon into our battle? Fine then...
A golden earing that Naoto wore on her left ear began to shine.
Naoto- Ignite my soul with your flames. Pierce my body with your sword made of molted lava! Make my body yours & use it to your liking! Aim!
Naoto was then enveloped by flames. She then appeared with a long red skirt which covered her butt & front, & curved around her legs to form a somewhat tail. There was also a golden long cloth going around her waist & over her legs. She also had a metal strapless red shirt like shield which covered her chest up to her mid stomach. Naoto had ankle bracelets made of fire, & on her arm. Her hair was in a pony tail that was held by fire too. Finally, her red fiery & golden veil. Her weapon, were twin swords.
Naoto- *grins* Now then, *brings twin swords close to her face in a cross* be apt to being pulverized.
Okay so I know that I took long, cuz I can. But i tried putting in osts for this chapter, but decided not to since it'll take more. But hey, school comes first man, that's why this chapter took long. & if it's not long enough then boo, I wanted to stop it there for reasons. Until next time.
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