Hello all! Been a while, huh? Things have been pretty crazy. I hope you're all well!
Just a reminder-this chapter does have a lemon in it. Feel free to skip that part if it's not your cup of tea and read the non-lemon stuff in here! Hope you enjoy this chapter!
Disclaimer: I do not own Fairy Tail.
Fairy Tail—The Master and the Dragon
Chapter 101
Mira shivered, wrapping her heavy fur-lined coat tighter around her body to try and keep out the frigid winds and snow. She moved closer to Nikolias's warm body, pressing herself against his side.
Nikolias smiled, wrapping his arm tightly around her and holding her even closer. "Sorry about the cold. This weather is awful. We're almost there, I promise."
Mira smiled up at him. "Really, I'm okay. Don't worry about me."
The two walked down the cobblestone streets of Kurokate. Paper lanterns hung outside the houses and shops, illuminating the area in an orange light and casting long shadows. Fluffy snow blanketed the roofs and awnings. People walked about, bundled up in warm clothing.
"I didn't realize how far the station was from the inn."
Mira placed a gloved hand against her cheek and sighed contentedly. "I can't wait. I've heard wonderful things about the Kurokate hot springs."
"I'm looking forward to it, too. Things have really been busy for a while now. It'll be nice to just relax with you. Just the two of us."
"Just the two of us."
As they walked down the road, the number of houses and shops decreased until there was nothing but trees and bushes. The voices of the citizens faded away until they were surrounded by quiet. Tall lampposts fueled by lacrima were sporadically placed along the winding road to provide some light in the darkness. Eventually, the road ended at a large set of wide stone stairs.
Once Nikolias and Mira reached the top of the stairs, they could see a small one-story building. Welcoming light poured out of the front windows. As Nikolias slid open the front door, warm air wrapped around them.
Mira slid her coat off. She looked around, her face beaming. "Oh, it's lovely inside!"
"Anything would beat that cold, that's for sure," Nikolias chuckled, sliding the door closed behind him.
"Welcome to the Kurokate Hot Springs." A young woman behind the front desk smiled at them and offered her greeting with a small bow. She was dressed in a white yukata with pale purple accents. Her silky, straight brown hair was tied into a neat bun. "Will you be staying with us?"
Nikolias and Mira walked up to her. "Yes, we'd like a room for two nights," Nikolias replied, returning the smile."
"Very good, sir. That will be 4,000 Jewel." Nikolias paid the young woman. She nodded and gestured down the hall behind her. "If you would follow me, I'll show you to your room."
They nodded and followed the young woman down the hallway. "This inn is as lovely as I've heard," Mira said.
"Thank you, miss. We pride ourselves on the comfort and enjoyment of our guests."
"Do you have a lot of people staying here?" Nikolias asked.
"Currently there is only one other couple staying here."
"Really? I would have thought there would be more."
The young woman did not respond right away. "Yes, well…I suppose the weather and cold air can be a bit of a deterrent to travelers." The young woman stopped in front of Room 15. She slid open the door and motioned inside. "This is where you will be staying. If you were to keep walking down the hall until the end, you'd find the entrances to the outdoor hot springs. Women's bathing is down the hall to the left. Men's bathing is down the hall on the right. The mixed bath would be right in front of you." She bowed her head. "My name is Lily. Should you need anything at all, please call for me. I hope you find everything satisfactory while you're staying with us."
"Thank you, we will," Mira said.
Lily headed back to the front desk while Nikolias and Mira entered their room. It was a cozy square room. A small bureau in the corner and a nightstand were the only pieces of furniture. A single rolled out futon with two plump white pillows and down sheets sat in the middle of the tatami floor. The door to the closet was open on their left where they could see a pair of neatly folded white bath robes. There was a large sliding screen door on the other side of the room that led to a small deck that was covered in snow.
Nikolias put down their suitcases next to the nightstand and slipped off his coat. "Well we made it!"
"This room is so nice," Mira said, hanging her coat in the closet.
Nikolias hung his coat and wrapped his arms around Mira's waist. "It is. Let's get unpacked and settled in and then hit the mixed bathing hot springs." His voice was soft as he purred into her ear.
Mira giggled as she leaned against him and rested her head on his shoulder. She took his hands. "Yes, let's!"
The two unpacked their bags before changing into their bath robes. They grabbed anything else they would need for the hot springs and made their way out.
As they walked down the hallway towards the mixed bathing room, they ran into a young woman coming out of her room. Her straight black hair was tied up into a messy bun. She was wearing the same bath robe as they were. A small basket was tucked under one arm as she slid her room door closed behind her.
She turned upon hearing Nikolias and Mira approach. Once she saw them, her eyes widened. She gasped, her basket falling from her arm and clattering onto the floor. Bath supplies scattered everywhere. Still, she made no move to pick up her things. She stared at them, frozen.
"Umm, ma'am?" Nikolias called out. "Is, uh, everything okay?"
The woman started to tremble slightly. Her hand went to her mouth.
"Ma'am?"
"…nt b…v…s…u…" The woman's speech was soft and muffled by her hand.
"Sorry?" Mira said. "I couldn't quite hear you."
Suddenly, the woman's eyes sparkled. She leapt into the air, throwing her hands up, and crying out. "I CAN'T BELIEVE IT'S YOOOOOUUUUUU!"
Nikolias and Mira both froze at the sudden and unexpected outburst.
The woman sped up to them, grabbing Mira's hands. "Icantbelieveitsyou, Icantbelieveitsyou, Icantbelieveitsyou, Icantbelieveitsyou, I. CAN'T. BE. LIEVE. IT'S. YOOOOUUUU!" She leaned in closer. "You're the Mirajane Strauss! AHHH, I can't believe it! I'm actually meeting the Mirajane! I can't believe my luck! To think I would meet a celebrity here of all places! AHHHH! I've seen all your photos and read all the articles about you in Sorcerer's Weekly!"
Mira smiled sweetly. She was used to such reactions from fans of the magazine. "That's so kind of you to say. Thank you!"
She turned her head and she gasped again. "Wait! Waitwaitwaitwaitwait! So…you're Nikolias! The gorgeous newcomer on the modeling scene! I absolutely loved your first spread with Mirajane!"
Nikolias felt his whole face heat up. "Ummm, thanks. Though I'm not a new model. That was a one-time thing. It's not really something I plan on doing in the future."
The woman looked visibly dejected. "Aww, but why? You're so sexy you were meant for the camera! Please don't deny me and all the other readers!"
Nikolias chuckled uncomfortably.
"Can I ask your name?" Mira asked the young woman who still had a grip on her hands.
The young woman turned and yet again gasped like she was being honored by royalty. "You want to know my name? I can't believe it!" The woman released Mira's hands, folded her hands in front of her, and bowed so low she was parallel with the floor. "My name is Tia. It is an absolute honor to meet both of you!"
"Nice to meet you, Tia," Mira giggled.
"If I may be so bold, can I please trouble you with a question?" Tia shouted for permission, her body still rigidly horizontal.
"You don't need to be so formal. We're just people," Nikolias said. "Relax a little and ask your question."
Tia's body sprang up straight as if she were standing at attention. "Thank you so much!"
Nikolias sweatdropped. 'She didn't relax at all…'
"As long as it's not an imposition, can I ask why you two are here?" Tia asked.
"We're on vacation," Nikolias answered simply. "We've heard really nice things about this place, so we thought we'd check it out."
Tia blushed. Her hands went to her cheeks and a dreamy look spread across her face. "Oh, a couple's vacation! That's so romantic!"
"Is that why you're here?" Mira asked.
Tia nodded. "Yes! I'm here on vacation with my husband. We're celebrating our three-year anniversary!"
"Congratulations!" Mira exclaimed.
Nikolias wrapped his arm around Mira's shoulders. "We hope you enjoy your stay and your anniversary. I'm sure we'll see you around while we're all staying here. Now if you'll excuse us, we—"
"Oh, are you two headed to the hot springs?" Tia interrupted. "What a coincidence! So am I!" She squealed and spun around over and over. "I can't believe I get to go to the hot springs with Mirajane! How did I get so lucky?"
Nikolias and Mira looked at each other. "I think she's misunderstanding. We were headed to the mixed bath. There's no way she was also headed there," Nikolias whispered.
"What should we do?" Mira whispered back. "She looks so excited."
Nikolias sighed. "Well, it is her anniversary. I guess a little time wouldn't hurt, right?"
Mira took his hand and smiled warmly. "You really are so thoughtful."
He leaned in closely until his face was right beside hers. "Well, only a little bit. I'll be waiting for you in the mixed bath." He gently nibbled on her ear. "Don't take too long."
Mira's breath caught in her throat. Her heart was pounding as she nodded. "I wouldn't dare. I'll meet you there soon."
The snow was gently falling from the night sky, melting the moment it touched the steam rising from the hot springs.
"This is heavenly," Tia sighed as she slowly lowered her naked body into the water.
Mira, her hair tied into a bun atop her head, smiled as Tia settled beside her. "Yes, this hot spring is just as relaxing and cleansing as I had heard."
Tia closed her eyes and rested her head on the rock wall behind her. "Tell me about it. I can feel all of my stress and worries melting away." She pivoted her head and looked at Mira's relaxed expression. "My husband is going to freak when he hears about this, by the way. He's also a huge fan of yours." She pouted. "Though for completely different reasons."
Mira giggled. "I'm flattered, I guess."
"He's not a fan of Nikolias like I am, though. I think he's jealous. But I can tell that there's more to Nikolias than just a pretty face and rockin' body."
"That's true, there is. Much, much more."
Tia pressed her hands together and smiled brightly. "I bet he's sensitive and thoughtful!"
"You're right on the mark!"
"I knew it! I could tell from the magazine! But the article barely mentioned your relationship with Nikolias. How many years have you two been together?"
Mira put a hand to her face. "Less than a month."
Tia shot up, eyes wide in shock. "What? You're kidding, not even a whole month!? But…your chemistry on and off camera is so genuine! I would have thought you two had been going steady for quite some time!"
"What can I say?" Mira looked up at the sky. 'But it is crazy. With everything that's happened, it feels like I've known Nikolias forever, but it really hasn't been that long. Though Tenrou makes that math a bit complicated…should I have said over 7 years? No, that would be weird. That would make it seem like we've been together since we were teens, which isn't true. Hmm…'
"That's so wild," Tia breathed.
Mira decided it was best to change the subject before she ended up having to try to explain further. "So how long were you and your husband together before you got married?"
"We started dating when we were in our late teens. He proposed two years later and we were married a year after that!"
"How lovely! What kind of person is he?"
Tia's face flushed. "He's a very kind person. He's always thinking about me. He's kind of shy and soft-spoken and sometimes struggles to make decisions. But he tells me all the time how he wants me to smile." She beamed. "This trip was his idea, by the way!"
"He sounds wonderful." Mira stood and covered herself with a towel. She grabbed her bucket of bathing supplies. "Well I should be getting out now."
"Aw, you're leaving already?"
"I'm afraid so. Thank you for inviting me to the bath with you. I'll see you later, Tia."
Tia waved at Mira as she left the bath and entered the changing area.
With every step, Mira's heart was beating faster and faster with eager anticipation. She hated to be rude and leave so early, but the truth was she just couldn't take it anymore. Soon she would be in the hot springs with Nikolias. It's all she could think about. Her body trembled at the mere thought of his touch on her skin; his strong arms wrapping around her, his fingers tenderly caressing her, his lips lovingly capturing hers. It only quickened her pace as she threw on her robe, tucked her bucket under her arm, and left the women's bathing room.
Her pace became even swifter as she walked down the hall and turned into the mixed bathing room. Looking around, she only saw one basket with a bath robe inside of it. She walked up to the filled basket and slipped her bath robe off. Wrapping her towel around her naked body, completely forgetting her bathing bucket, she strode towards the bath. She couldn't see much through the rising steam, but she thought she could just make out the back of a figure sitting in the water. Her heartbeat intensified.
Nikolias turned upon hearing her approach and smiled. "Hey."
Mira's face lit up. "Hey."
"Come on in. The water is marvelous."
Mira slowly lowered herself into the water beside Nikolias, holding her towel close. She sighed contentedly. "It truly is."
"How was your bath with Tia?"
"It was nice. She's a lovely person. But…" Her voice trailed off, her face flushing with color. She looked down at her legs through the water's surface.
"But what?"
"I feel bad. It was hard to hold a conversation with her because I couldn't keep myself from thinking of you."
Nikolias smiled softly. He gently lifted and turned her head towards him and kissed her lips. "What a coincidence. I couldn't stop thinking about you, either."
Mira leaned closer to Nikolias, capturing his lips. Her hand sought out Nikolias's under the water and interlocked her fingers with his. "I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long."
He chuckled. "I managed somehow. Though a few more minutes and I probably would've gone to get you myself." He deepened the kiss, tenderly gliding his tongue along hers. "Happy anniversary, Mira."
Mira froze. She backed up and stared at Nikolias, wide-eyed. "What?"
He squeezed her hand. "Today is our one-month anniversary."
Mira tilted her head in confusion. "But Nikolias, we've only been dating for a little over three weeks. It hasn't been a full month yet."
"Yeah, I know."
"Then why?"
Nikolias blushed. "Promise you won't laugh?"
Mira was even more confused. "Yes, I promise."
He scratched his cheek. "Well it's just…I know it may sound kind of corny, but…today marks one month since we first met. I know that's a weird thing to say 'happy anniversary' for, but the moment I met you, somewhere deep down I knew that you were special. So I wanted to celebrate this day with you."
Mira covered her mouth with her hand as tears welled up in her eyes. "Nikolias…that's beautiful."
He gently wiped the tears from her eyes before they could fall. "I love you, Mira. Even if it's not an actual anniversary."
Overcome with emotion, Mira threw herself at Nikolias, kissing him passionately. She wrapped her arms around his head, completely ignoring her towel that was floating away, and moved to straddle him. She felt his arms wrap around the small of her back as she began to lower herself onto his lap. She could feel his erection rubbing against her exposed clitoris and it made shockwaves of pleasure shoot through her body.
Nikolias's fingers delicately caressed her skin as they moved higher up her back, tracing her shoulder blades before his right hand glided around to her front. Her breasts were pressed firmly against his chest, but he snaked his hand in between. His rough palm rubbed against her nipple as he kneaded her breast firmly. He could feel her moan into the kiss, the vibrations and sound spurring him on. With fingers like a skilled artisan, he massaged the mound of soft flesh in his hand.
Mira's mind was spinning. All she could think about was the warmth of Nikolias's body pressed against her, the firmness of his hand on her breast, the hunger in his lips as he kissed her. Without realizing it, her body was moving on its own. Her moans intensified as her nipples and clitoris rubbed against Nikolias.
She could feel a strong urge well up within her. She broke the kiss, a trail of saliva still connecting them. She panted heavily, her face flushed and her eyes clouded as she looked deep into Nikolias's eyes. "Nikolias…I can't wait anymore." She lifted herself slightly, reached down with her hand, and wrapped her fingers around Nikolias's penis. Her hand moved up and down slowly, forcing a grunt from his throat. "I need to feel you."
Without another moment's hesitation, eyes still locked with Nikolias's gaze, she lined herself up with Nikolias's penis before lowering herself back down slowly. The moment the tip of Nikolias's rock hard member entered her, she was lost for air, mouth open in a silent gasp. Still she continued, her whole body trembling as she felt Nikolias enter deeper and deeper inside of her. Once she had completely lowered herself back down, her breath returned to her. A whimper of pleasure squeaked out from her.
Nikolias kissed her neck. His hands strongly grasped her waist. "Mira…I'm afraid I can't wait any longer either!" He lifted Mira's body up and slammed her back down.
Mira screamed her pleasure upon feeling Nikolias's thick member rub her walls so quickly and fiercely. And he didn't stop there. Over and over, with inhuman strength and agility, he moved Mira up and down. Her back arched. Her breasts swayed hypnotically. Her head was thrust back as she cried out in a high-pitched, raspy voice.
The water sloshed violently around them, splashing out of the bath from the waves that were being created. Yet neither were aware of anything but the pleasure they felt from the other.
Mira's mind had gone blank. Nikolias's pace hadn't slowed at all. She had become consumed by the pleasure. Her eyes were rolled back. Her mouth hung open as euphoric cries escaped her throat. Her fingers dug into Nikolias's rugged shoulders. Her toes curled under the water. A tension was building in her abdomen that was close to snapping.
Nikolias's eyes were locked on Mira's expression. Seeing her pleasure spurred his lust. With a primal, soft growl, he leaned forward and captured one of her swaying breasts with his teeth. He gently pulled and suckled at the erect nipple.
Mira felt it shatter. The tension that had been building erupted in waves of intense pleasure that flowed through her. She screamed her release as her body violently shuddered. Yet Nikolias still hadn't slowed down. The tension was starting to build up again. She could feel the strength in her body fading. Her grip on his shoulders was weakening. Her body started to slump forward.
Nikolias felt the change in Mira's strength. He released her breast and in that moment Mira's body collapsed upon his chest. Her head rested on his shoulder. "Are you alright?"
"I'm…i…inc….incredible. Hnh! I…I feel…Ah!...so…good!"
"I'm glad. You feel incredible, Mira. I'm really close."
Mira shifted her arms, releasing his shoulders and wrapping her arms around his neck. "Me, too! You…You're going to…Hah!...make me cum again!"
Nikolias smiled. "In that case…" He stopped his movements and lifted Mira until he was no longer inside of her. He turned her around so that her back was to him.
Mira was panting heavily as she looked over her shoulder. "Wh…what are you…doing?"
Nikolias pulled them both up to their feet. "Finishing things off!" He grabbed hold of both of her wrists and plunged deep inside of her once again.
Mira couldn't hold back the screams. Nikolias's thrusts were swift and powerful, this new position allowing him to move within her faster than before and reach the very deepest spots inside of her. Her exhausted body slumped forward, but because of Nikolias's grip on her arms, she remained upright, her torso parallel with the water's surface. She could feel his strong hips slamming into her rear, the wetness of their skin echoing with each thrust. Her climax was almost upon her. She turned her head. "Nikolias…I…I love you!"
"I love you, too, Mira!"
Without slowing down, Nikolias moved his hands to grasp Mira's swaying breasts, keeping her in the same position and allowing her arms to dangle limply. Roughly he massaged, pulled, and squeezed the malleable flesh that filled his hands while occasionally pinching and twisting her nipples. His thrusts sped up as he approached his climax.
All the stimulation sent Mira spiraling over the edge. She cried out in bliss. Her legs shook as they struggled to keep her up. Had it not been for Nikolias's strong hold on her breasts, she would have most likely collapsed.
Nikolias thrust a couple more times before roaring to the skies. He pulled out of Mira and released his hot sperm onto her back and rear.
Both of them were frozen, panting heavily. Slowly Nikolias sat down and carefully pulled Mira down onto his lap. Her back rested upon his broad chest and her head was slumped onto his shoulder. He smiled as he gazed down at her. Her eyes were closed and her hair was stuck to her face in places from the sweat and steam. He wrapped his arms around her stomach and kissed her neck.
"That was amazing," Mira breathed.
"It was." He kissed her cheek. "You tired?"
She giggled softly, adjusting her head to rest in the crook of his neck. "Just a bit."
Nikolias rested his head lightly against hers. "Then we'll rest and enjoy the view. It really is beautiful here."
"Yes. Truly heavenly."
"What a lovely bath," Mira sighed.
She and Nikolias had finished resting in the bath and were headed back to their room. Mira walked with her arms around Nikolias's body and her head resting against his arm. Nikolias held her close while carrying all their bath supplies.
"First of a few," Nikolias chuckled. "We're here for the hot springs after all."
"And I look forward to each and every one!" Mira giggled.
They were about to open the door to their room when they heard fast approaching footsteps behind them. They both turned to see Tia appear from the hall to the right. She turned towards them and they could both see the panic in her expression.
"Tia? Is everything okay?" Mira asked with concern.
Tia's eyes widened as she ran up to them. "Mira! Nikolias! Have either of you seen my husband?"
"Well I haven't met him and have no idea what he looks like, but I haven't seen anyone else here at the inn except for you and Lily. Sorry," Nikolias replied.
"You can't find him?" Mira asked.
Tia shook her head vigorously. Tears were forming in her eyes. "No, I can't! I have no idea where he could be! I'm really freaked out right now! WhatdoIdo whatdoIdo whatdoIdo?!"
"Start by taking a deep breath. Try to calm down," Nikolias instructed softly. "When was the last time you saw him?"
Tia tried to follow Nikolias's advice, but was struggling to take calm, even breaths. "In our room. I was ready for the hot springs before him, so I headed out to the women's bath while he finished up. He was supposed to go to the men's bath shortly after I left." She clasped her hands together, her knuckles turning white as she squeezed. "When I finished my bath and made it back to the room, he wasn't there. I figured he was still in the hot spring, but when I went down there and called out to him, he didn't answer. I was getting worried so…I looked inside. No one was there." She buried her face in her hands. "It's not like him to just disappear like this. Where could he be? What if something happened to him?"
Mira wrapped her arm around Tia's shoulders. "I'm sure he's okay."
"Mira, take Tia to the front desk. See if Lily saw her husband," Nikolias said. "I'll take a look at Tia's room. See if maybe I can pick something up. Do you mind, Tia?"
Tia sniffed and shook her head.
Nikolias headed down the hall to Tia's room. Mira walked with Tia over to the front desk where Lily stood. "Excuse me, Miss Lily?"
Lily turned and gasped. "Oh my! What's wrong?"
"H…Have you seen my husband?" Tia sobbed.
Lily paled. "Y…Your husband? No I haven't."
Tia broke down into fresh tears. Mira rubbed her back.
"Miss Lily, other than the hot springs, are there any places where guests can go?" Mira asked.
"There's the recreation room where some billiard tables and other games are set up," Lily answered.
"Let's check there, Tia," Mira offered.
Mira and Tia followed Lily to the recreation room. However, it was empty.
"And there's nowhere else for guests to go? No place to eat?" Mira asked.
Lily shook her head. "No, meals are brought to guests in their rooms."
Mira sighed. "Let's get you back to your room, Tia. Maybe Nikolias found something."
Tia was trembling. She was clearly mentally and emotionally drained from her worry. "Okay."
The three women headed for Tia's room. Once they arrived, they saw Nikolias squatting by the sliding screen door, his back to them as he stared at the floor. "Any luck?" Mira asked.
Nikolias stayed silent for a moment. "Tia, did you open this door at any point?"
"No," Tia rasped. "It's cold and snowing. Plus, the deck is covered in snow. Why would I have opened that door?"
"Why do you ask, Nikolias?" Mira asked.
"The floor is soaked right in this spot and only here." He pressed down slightly on the floor. The tatami mat made a slight squishing noise under the pressure.
"Does that mean something?" Mira asked.
"Not sure." Nikolias stood up. "I'm also slightly bothered by the scent…"
"The scent?" Tia repeated, confused.
"This wet spot smells odd. It doesn't smell like Tia or her husband. Their scents are all over the place, but not here. It sort of smells like outside, but there's something else mixed in. I have no idea what, though."
"What does he mean by 'scent'?" Tia asked again.
"So are you saying that wet spot has something to do with Tia's husband?" Mira asked, ignoring Tia's question.
"Again, not sure. But something's off for sure here." Nikolias turned around with a serious expression and looked towards Lily. "What aren't you telling us, Lily?"
Lily took a step back, caught off guard by the sudden questioning. "Wh…What do you mean?"
"Don't lie to me. I can sense it. You're afraid. You know something about this, don't you?"
"I…"
"If you know something, please tell us, Miss Lily," Mira begged. "If something has happened to Tia's husband then we want to help her. As members of Fairy Tail, we can't turn our backs on someone who needs help!"
Lily's eyes widened. "You two…are with Fairy Tail?"
Nikolias pulled his robe slightly to reveal the golden insignia on his neck. "Yes we are. Now tell us what's going on."
Lily averted her gaze. She fidgeted nervously. "V…Very well. I suppose there's no avoiding it anymore. I'll tell you everything I know."
Nikolias nodded and crossed his arms. "Good. Don't leave a single detail out either, even if you think it's unimportant."
Lily nodded her understanding. She lowered herself into a kneeling position. "Alright, I'll start at the beginning then. My family has owned the Kurokate Hot Springs for many years, ever since my ancestor built it. This inn has always been very popular through the generations. Guests come from all over to stay here and use the hot springs. Normally, we're completely packed every single day and employ many staff members to see to guest satisfaction and comfort. That is, until a few weeks ago.
"One day, the husband of one of our guests mysteriously disappeared from his room. No one saw him leave and there were no signs that anything had happened to him. It was as if he had been spirited away. I contacted the Magic Council immediately and they sent Rune Knights to investigate. They searched the inn, but the only thing they found that seemed to be out of place was that the floor was a bit damp in places within the couple's room. But it being a hot spring resort, they wrote it off as being from the baths. It made sense so no one questioned it. They searched the entire area surrounding the inn as well. But…they never found him. He continues to be missing to this day.
"Naturally, people were afraid, but people still wanted to stay. And I didn't want to close the hot springs. I mean, I figured that whatever happened to that man was nothing more than a terrible accident, a singular event that would never happen again. But I was wrong.
"A few days later, the same thing happened again. The fiancée of another guest went missing in the same fashion—he vanished without a trace. I contacted the Magic Council again and we went through the same process as before. They came, they investigated, but the man was never found again. No signs of him anywhere.
"Guests were very afraid now. People with reservations cancelled. Guests who had paid to stay demanded they be reimbursed and left. All my staff quit. This once bustling inn filled with joy and happiness had been practically abandoned."
Tears were filling Lily's eyes. She wiped them away with her sleeve. Mira put a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Please continue, Miss Lily."
Lily nodded. "While the number of guests staying greatly decreased, we would still have people come to stay. These people had either never heard the stories of what had happened or had heard and didn't believe there was anything to fear. I was glad that there was some business, but I was terrified that something would happen again. I could not allow this inn, this wonderful place that had been in my family for generations, to close forever. So I reached out to the top guilds in Fiore, begging them for help. I put out a mission request and offered a substantial reward to anyone who could come and solve this problem. A few guilds accepted the request and after a few days, we had several high-ranking mages staying with us to offer protection and serve as guards. The guests felt safer and I believed that with their support, whatever was happening would finally stop for good. But again, my beliefs proved incorrect.
"The very night the mages arrived, one of the mages disappeared. Just like the other two. I was completely shocked. Even one of the people I had hired to investigate and put this nightmare to bed had disappeared. Everyone searched for him, but we found no signs of him anywhere, just like the other two."
"That is strange," Mira said. She looked towards Nikolias. He was saying nothing as he kept his eyes fixed on Lily, listening intently to her story.
"After seeing one of their own vanish inexplicably, the mages I hired all quit. Their guild informed the Magic Council and the Magic Council told me that if another incident occurred, the hot spring would be closed down permanently to avoid further endangering any citizens. The guests staying left as well, saying there was no way they could relax and feel safe if even a guild wizard disappeared. I refused to stop trying, though. Even though business was suffering and I couldn't offer as high of a reward, I kept reaching out to the top guilds in the hopes someone would hear my plea and help me. But word had spread about this inn. No one was willing to take the job out of fear for their lives. Out of desperation, I sent out the request to every single guild in Fiore. But still no one would come to my aid.
"The guests have all but stopped coming. There's no one. I'm all alone." Lily couldn't fight back the tears. She buried her face in her hands and wailed. "I don't know what to do anymore! I don't want this inn to go away! I love this place! But I…I can't figure out what to do anymore!"
Mira rubbed Lily's back. "Nikolias, what do you think?"
Nikolias said nothing for quite some time. After a while, he looked to Tia. "Tia, had you or your husband heard the rumors of this place?"
Tia looked to Nikolias with exhausted eyes. "No, we hadn't. I'm not sure how. It sounds like the rumors spread all around."
Nikolias sighed. He turned his attention back to Lily. "Do you think you can answer a couple questions I have?"
Lily lifted her face, sniffed, and nodded silently.
"Okay then. First off, did the disappearances always occur a few days apart?"
Lily nodded. "Yes, but nothing has happened recently since I've had no guests. Well…until right now."
"Did the victims always disappear from their rooms?"
"Yes, they did."
"Were there always these weird damp spots like this? You mentioned it with the first case, but not with the others."
"Yes, there were."
"Always by the sliding door leading to the deck?"
Lily thought it over. "Yes, but sometimes there were other spots as well further from the door."
"Lily, the targets were always men, correct? Even the mage?"
Another nod. "Yes."
Nikolias sighed again. "Alright then."
Lily gulped. "Are you…going to tell the Magic Council about this?"
Nikolias clicked his tongue and looked away with irritation. "I wouldn't tell the Council jack shit about anything. I don't trust them."
"What?" Tia shrieked, suddenly finding energy. "My husband is missing and you don't intend to report it?!"
Nikolias closed his eyes. "No, I don't."
Lily looked slightly relieved. "Really?"
"Why not?" Tia demanded.
Nikolias looked at Tia. "Because I can find your husband, Tia."
The anger vanished from Tia's face. "Wait…you can find him? How?"
Nikolias pointed to his nose. "Just give me something he's worn recently and my nose will do the rest." He turned to Lily. "Oh, and I'll solve your problem for you as well."
"""You will?"""
Lily, Tia, and Mira all gasped their surprise at Nikolias's declaration.
A small smile appeared on Lily's face. She clasped her hands together in joy and hope. "You will? You can help me?"
"Nikolias, do you really know what happened?" Mira asked.
Nikolias nodded. "Yeah, after hearing all of that, I know pretty much everything that happened."
"So what is it?" Lily begged. "Please, what has been going on with this inn?"
"I hate to tell you this, Lily, but unfortunately for you a Snow Maiden is living nearby."
Lily blinked. She had a blank expression. "Huh? A Snow Maiden? What is that?"
"I'm not surprised you've never heard of them. A vast majority of people never see one, so they aren't really mentioned in books or anything. Snow Maidens are creatures that live in mountainous or snowy places. They look just like beautiful women and feed on human life force. Their victims are male travelers who pass through their territory that they lure in with their beauty, but they will break into homes if they're hungry enough. A human's life force only keeps them sustained for a few days, so sometimes they get that desperate."
All color vanished from all three women's faces. "They sound like monsters," Lily breathed.
"Not always. Some Snow Maidens are completely harmless, simply searching for someone to love while primarily feeding on typical food to stay alive. They'll take minimal life energy when necessary. This one, though…" Nikolias paused to look at the damp spot by the sliding glass door. "This Snow Maiden falls into the other category; a cold-blooded hunter. And this inn of yours seems to be her new hunting ground."
"So the damp spots…," Mira began.
"They're her footprints. It explains the strange scent I was getting from the spot as well."
Mira looked past Nikolias to the snowy deck. "But there aren't any footprints in the snow outside."
"Snow Maidens are able to move across snow gracefully, almost as if they can float. She approached like a phantom. Then all she had to do was open the glass door and sneak inside when Tia's husband wasn't looking. I guess he was standing pretty close to the door if there's only one footprint."
"But why? Why here?" Lily asked.
Nikolias scratched his head. "It's hard to say exactly. Most likely there haven't been enough travelers passing through her territory, so she's had to venture out to hunt and just happened upon this place. A lot of men come here with their wives or loved ones, so this place would be like a gold mine for her."
Lily's body slumped forward. "No…this can't be…"
"Nikolias, how do you know so much about this?" Mira asked.
"Long ago, I met a Snow Maiden. Her name was Kiyu. She was a very sweet girl. She fits into the first category I mentioned. She hated the idea of hurting people. She lived a few miles north from Shile, so I would go visit her from time to time. We talked often and I got to learn all about Snow Maidens that way."
"But…But then my husband!" Tia cried. "What about my husband? Is he…?"
"He's fine for now. Snow Maidens don't like to feed in public places. They prefer to be alone. She probably took your husband back to her home." Nikolias held out his hand. "I guarantee I can pick up your husband's scent and catch up to them before she feeds. I can move faster than any Snow Maiden. You have something he's worn recently, right?"
Tia nodded. She ran to the closet and thrust it open. She grabbed a shirt from the shelf and handed it to Nikolias. "This was the shirt he was wearing before he changed into his robe." Her eyes were filled with tears and desperation. "Please, Nikolias! Please save my husband!"
Nikolias closed his hand around the shirt. "Oh, you can bet I'll save him. And I will make this Snow Maiden pay dearly for everything."
Mira stepped forward. "I'm coming with you."
Nikolias nodded. "Right. Let's change quickly and head out."
Nikolias raced through the trees, his strong wings beating against the frigid winter night air. He carried Mira in his arms, holding her close against his chest.
"How close are we, Nikolias?" Mira asked.
"Close," Nikolias answered. He sniffed the air. "The scent is getting stronger."
"We should come up with some kind of plan for when we find them."
"Good idea. I'll do what I can to get Tia's husband away from the Snow Maiden. Once I do, get him somewhere safe. Then I'll take out the Snow Maiden."
"By yourself?"
"Snow Maidens aren't strong. They rely on deception and strike when their prey drops their guard. She won't be a threat. Besides, our priority is the safe return of Tia's husband."
"I understand."
"Do you think you can wait to take your Satan Soul until after I engage her? She'll sense the magic energy and it might make it trickier to save Tia's husband."
"Of course."
Nikolias sniffed the air again. "We're about to see them. Get ready."
Mira nodded silently.
They broke through the small forest of snowy trees and arrived in a large clearing near the base of the mountains. Not too far ahead they could see two figures. One was being carried by the other, who seemed to be gliding effortlessly over the deep snow.
The Snow Maiden and her prey. Tia's husband was slung over the Snow Maiden's shoulder like a sack of flour.
With one final push, Nikolias folded his wings against his back and flew forward like a missile. He spun in the air and landed a sharp kick to the back of the Snow Maiden's head. Caught completely unaware, the Snow Maiden dropped her prey and tumbled through the snow with a cry.
The moment she heard Nikolias's kick connect with the Snow Maiden, Mira pushed off from Nikolias's arms. She became shrouded in a dark purple aura as she took her Satan Soul form. She scooped Tia's husband under her arm and glided back on her wings.
Nikolias landed on the snow and glared at the Snow Maiden as she slowly rose back to her feet.
The Snow Maiden's long, black hair blew in the wind behind her. She slowly turned her head and scowled at Nikolias, her icy blue eyes fixed on him. Her skin was pale, almost as white as the snow. "You would dare interfere with me?" she hissed.
"Well I can't exactly let you have your way, now can I?"
Her lips curled into a smile, but her expression was still one of anger. She put a robed hand to her mouth. "You must have a death wish then. Very well. You look delicious. Very exotic. You'll be a fine substitute for me."
"If you think you can take me, I encourage you to try."
Her smile faded as the snow and wind around her intensified. "Hmph. You certainly are a cocky one. I'll enjoy draining the life from you as you beg for mercy!"
Shadows erupted around Nikolias as he walked forward. "I'll apologize ahead of time. I'm not really in the mood to drag this out, so I'll be crushing you quickly." His eyes went dragon-like. Scales appeared on his hands and forearms and his fingers became talons. Black blades shot out of his forearms. His wings flexed behind him. "Not only did you take Tia's husband, but your mischief interrupted my vacation with Mira, and for that I will make sure you pay. Dearly."
The Snow Maiden threw her hands out. Her long, delicate fingers were spread wide and her sharp nails glinted in the moonlight. Strong gusts of icy wind suddenly blew from behind her and whipped her hair and white robes about wildly. The winds began to circulate and formed an icy tornado around Nikolias. A vicious smile split her face. "Make me pay, you say? Hah! Your arrogance will be your doom!"
Nikolias never stopped walking as the cold wind and snow bit at his skin. He huffed. "Trying to freeze me? Pathetic." He dug his feet into the snow. His eyes flashed. His lips curled back in a terrifying snarl. He bared his long fangs as black flames collected in his jaws. "SHADOW DRAGON INFERNO!" Flames erupted from his mouth, breaking through the icy wall of wind and consuming the Snow Maiden.
The Snow Maiden shrieked in pain as the flames burned her delicate skin. She collapsed into the snow, desperately trying to put out the raging flames. Her icy blue eyes were wild with fear as she looked up at Nikolias. "You…! You can't be! This power…a dragon?!"
Nikolias started walking towards her again. His gaze was cold, looking down at the Snow Maiden as if she were no more than an inconvenient bug. "You just figured that out, huh? Wow."
The Snow Maiden shook her head. "No, but…the dragons have been gone for so long! You shouldn't exist!"
Nikolias flexed his talons threateningly. "Saying rude things like that probably isn't wise. Though I probably can't be any more pissed off at you than I already am, so I guess it doesn't really matter."
The Snow Maiden's mind went blank. She stopped frantically trying to put out the flames. Tears welled in her eyes and immediately froze before falling. She shook her head slowly. "Please, spare me," she begged in a raspy voice.
Nikolias stopped in front of her. "Spare you?" He lifted his arm high, his blade's edge catching the light of the moon. "What makes you think I'll spare you? You can say whatever you want. I know creatures like you can't change. You'll just go back to hunting men for sport, won't you?"
The Snow Maiden's lips trembled. "Please."
Nikolias's blade began its swift descent.
"Wait!"
Nikolias froze, his blade a hairsbreadth from the Snow Maiden's neck. He didn't take his eyes off the Snow Maiden. "Why are you stopping me, Mira?"
Mira stood off to the side, no longer in her Satan Soul. She was out of breath from running over. "You don't have to kill her, Nikolias."
"Yes I do. You heard me, right? She will keep killing. If I kill her, innocent men won't have to die. Lily's hot springs will prosper again without fear of more disappearances. There are no benefits to letting her live."
"Will you please listen to what I have to say?" she asked calmly.
He nodded. "I'll always listen."
"Thank you. I understand what you're saying. But what if there's another way to see all of those hopes fulfilled without killing her?"
Nikolias looked at Mira out of the corner of his eye. "Another way? What do you mean?"
Mira smiled at him. "I have an idea. But I'll need your help."
Mira and Nikolias returned to the Kurokate Hot Springs with Tia's husband. Other than suffering from a few minor cases of frostbite, he was perfectly safe and well. Tia was overjoyed to see him return. The moment she saw them walk through the entrance, she broke down into tears of joy and threw herself into her husband's arms, thanking Mira and Nikolias profusely.
Lily sighed with relief. "I'm glad to see you return safely." She looked to Nikolias. "What about the Snow Maiden?"
Nikolias smiled. "The Snow Maiden has been dealt with. You won't ever have to worry about her hunting your patrons again."
Lily bowed low. "Thank you so much! I'll never forget what you two have done for me and this inn that I love so dearly!"
"Our pleasure," Mira said sweetly.
"We were happy to help you out." Nikolias wrapped his arm around Mira's shoulders. "Now if you'll excuse us, we'll be heading to our room to get some sleep. It's been a long first night."
"Of course. Rest well!" Lily said brightly. "I'll make sure to give you the reward first thing in the morning!"
As they walked back to their room, Nikolias pulled Mira close to his body. "Sorry that our first day of vacation ended up being work."
Mira rested her head against Nikolias. "It's okay. We were able to help Tia and Lily. I think that makes it all worth it. And now it's all over. The Snow Maiden won't bother people anymore."
"And you feel okay?"
"Yeah. Just a bit tired."
Nikolias kissed the top of her head. "We'll get some sleep and enjoy the rest of our vacation. Maybe a few more dips in the hot spring are in our future."
Mira closed her eyes and sighed. Her mind returned to the hot springs and sharing them with Nikolias. Even with her body fatigued, she could feel anticipation well up inside of her. "Oh, you can bet there are."
So after giving it some thought, this will be the last filler chapter (couldn't come up with anything I liked that would fit into the story at this point). The next chapter will begin a really fun arc-the Grand Magic Games! I can't wait to get started!
See you then!
