Hello everyone! Kamen Rider Duelist here finally for a brand new chapter of Silent Magi's Apprentice and my goodness, it's been a hot minute! I'm so so sorry for not updating this story in a long time! As you can already see, Kamen Rider GX has been my focus as of late. I'm almost done with the first season, so please look forward to the season finale on May 1st, the 2-year anniversary of that fic! Since I'm almost done with that story for the season, I figured now's a good time to catch up on my other stories that I've neglected. Again, I apologize for the delay. So to make it up to you guys, here's the new and long overdue chapter of Silent Magi's Apprentice! Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh! All creative rights belong to Kazuki Takahashi.
The next morning had arrived as the rays of sunlight peeked through the curtains and window. Kuromu slowly opened his eyes when the light reached them. He noticed that they felt somewhat puffy, indicating that he had been crying for some time. But what he woke up to, was a first for him. Laying next to him, sleeping peacefully, was this teacher Shizuka. The way that the locks of silver hair cover some of her beautiful face. It looked… almost mesmerizing.
He couldn't help but wonder… 'Did Shizuka-sensei stay with me the whole time…?'
The mumbles and soft groans from Shizuka showed she was stirring awake before she yawned and opened her eyes, fluttering to get her vision together.
"Ahh… good morning, my apprentice. I hope you are feeling better?" Shizuka asked with a warm smile.
Kuromu lightly blushed, looking shy and downward. "Uh… yeah, I am… you… stayed with me? The whole night?"
"Of course. You needed me." Shizuka smiled softly, hugging him gently.
Now Kuromu felt even more embarrassed. But at least the thought was appreciated.
"How are you feeling?"
"At the moment… safe." Kuromu admitted. "This feels… nice…"
"If you ever wish for this again? Ask me, and I will commit." Shizuka smiled softly.
"I… will…" Kuromu murmured as he sighed into her chest. "So… warm…" Eventually, he fell asleep again.
Shizuka smiled softly once more as she held the hug for a bit more before gently letting him go and covering him up until she made her way out to continue on with the day.
"Enjoyed the cuddling?" Nia grinned impishly.
"It was… nice…" The mage admitted.
"Ahhhhhhh, I knew it!" Nia gushed. "You're starting to finally make a move on him!"
"Do not be absurd. He is still my apprentice and I am only seeing through his growth."
"You didn't outright deny that there's something more~"
"I am only seeing through, since his potential. Besides… he still has goals to achieve…"
"Would one of those goals be-"
"Do not test me." Shizuka frowned.
"Hey, I'm just showing you two the obvious signs! Nothing more than that." Nia whistled. "But you better do it soon, don't keep him waiting." With this, she flew off and away.
The Silent Magician sighed softly, her head shaking from how much Nia's love gossip and romance. She really should teach the pixie some restraint.
Chapter 18: Journey Into The Wild
Kuromu finally woke up and after finishing his bathroom routine, albeit somewhat painful due to eating spicy ramen, made his way over to the kitchen while in his pajamas. The Flavored Magician Girls, Mana, Nia, and Shizuka, alongside the Crystal Beasts were there already having breakfast. He was the last one to the table as he yawned with beads of tears in the corner of his eyes.
"Kyuu~!" Carbuncle beamed from seeing its master up as it hopped into his arms happily, nuzzling him.
"Morning, Ruby." Kuromu smiled softly.
"Good morning to you, sleepyhead." Kiwi greeted with a smirk.
"Kurrr… Kurr…" Berry magician wanted to be picked up by the young man, wanting attention like Ruby Carbuncle.
"Alright, alright." Kuromu chuckled, picking her up into his arms.
"Well isn't this a cute sight?" Mana giggled. "Thinking of being a daddy?"
"Oi…" Kuromu deadpanned. "I'm not ready for that yet."
"Tell that to my hubby-to-be." Mana playfully winked.
Nia seemed to be pouting before she flew over and sat on Kuromu's shoulder, also joining in on the big hug.
"Eh? Nia?"
"Kyuuuu~!" Ruby got on all fours, her posterior rising and wiggling and…
*POUNCE!*
Ruby and Nia started a comical dust fight.
"Hey! Stop! What are you- ow, ow, ow! No biting my hair, ahhh! Why you little- I'm gonna rip your fur! Come here you!"
"Kyuu, kyuu, kyuu, kyuu, kyuu!"
"So noisy…" Emerald Tortoise sighed, shaking his head.
"Don't they have better things to do?" Cobalt Eagle deadpanned.
"Allow me…" Amethyst Cat sighed as she walked over, glaring at the two as it made Nia and Ruby flinch at her gaze, "Enough playing around… Got it?"
"Y-Yes ma'am!/K-Kyuu!" Nia and Ruby nodded as they swiftly stopped their antics. Nia and Ruby looked at Berry Magician Girl who was given all the attention from Kuro.
However, unexpectedly, Berry Magician looked at the two and decided to be a bit petty by pulling down one of her bottom eyelids and cutely sticking out her tongue with a wink.
"Beeeeeh~!"
'You little-!/Kyuuuuuuu~!'
"Berry, that's not nice!" Chocolate scolded.
"So, jokes aside. What's the plan for you today, Kuromu?" Mana asked with a smile.
"Other than enduring spicy ramen pain, I'm not sure." Kuromu chuckled weakly.
"Spicy ramen?" The other Flavor Magicians who weren't there questioned.
"It's karma burning him in the butt…" Apple sighed with a shrug of her shoulders.
"This ramen sounds interesting though!" Nia said with interest.
"Can you handle spicy food?" Kuromu deadpanned.
"Hmm… dunno!"
"I'll take that as a no then."
"Hey~!" Nia pouted.
"You were not specific in your answer, Nia." Shizuka chuckled.
"I can handle it fine!" The pixie huffed, showing her pride was getting in the way of logic.
"Well anyways~ since you're still… recovering from your spicy ramen ordeal, how about you spend time with Berry, Chocolate, and Kiwi." Mana suggested. "You spent time with Apple, Lemon, and I yesterday. Even though Lemon had other ideas about spending time…" She muttered to the side.
"I heard that!" Lemon huffed.
"You were supposed to." Mana quipped.
"I like that idea!" Kiwi smiled, "And don't worry, Chocolate and I are spoken for." She reassured that there'd be no repeat of what Lemon did.
"Eh? You two have a significant other?" Kuromu blinked curiously.
"Indeed, I have a husband and Chocolate is with a nice girl from the Amazon Tribe." Kiwi informed.
"O-Oh… I had no idea same gender unions were a thing here." Kuromu looked a bit flustered.
"Love is love after all. Why should it matter what gender or race you're with?" Chocolate pointed out with a smile.
"Bet you were hoping they were like me, right, Ku~ro?" Lemon whispered into Kuromu's ear.
"Absolutely not!" Kuromu cried out.
"But you were thinking it ri~ght?"
"Nope, not at all." Kuromu deadpanned.
"Denial~" Lemon giggled teasingly before Kiwi pinched and pulled on her ear to punish the mage girl for her teasing as she flailed from the pain. "Owowowowowowowowowowow!"
"You really need to go easy on others, Lemon…" Kiwi sighed, "I truly apologize for her antics. She is at that age where she wants someone 'badly'."
"Oh I can definitely see that already…" Kuromu muttered. "I wouldn't be surprised if Lemon decided to…"
"To what? Tell me." Lemon smiled sweetly, but with a voice that had an underlying tone that promised pain and suffering.
"…Nothing. Nothing at all." Kuromu muttered.
"Hmm~? Having thoughts about me already?" Lemon teased.
*PI~NCH!*
"Owowowowowowowowowowowowowowow! I'm joking, I'm joking~!" Lemon whined, comically flailing from her ear being pinched again by Kiwi once again.
"I'll do what I can to keep her in line." Apple offered, as they knew Lemon would try to chase after Kuromu to tease and flirt more.
"Thank you, Apple." Kiwi sighed before letting go of Lemon's ear for now.
"Ow~" Lemon whined.
"Oh! I have an idea!" Chocolate smiled, perking everyone's ears to her, "Why don't I show you around my girlfriend's home in Amazonia?"
"Are you sure?" Kuromu asked. "I mean I'm sure their village has a… no-men policy?"
"I'm sure. Even though they are all warrior women. They've slowly been opening up to the outside world. Just as long as those who enter are respectful. Don't want 'tourists' do we?" Chocolate noted.
Kuromu nodded at this. He remembered reading a few news articles on the Daily Oracle about certain men either venturing or forcing their way into the country, only to either be jailed or killed for being nuisances.
*KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK*
"I'll get it!" Nia said, going over to the door to push down on the door handle and pull with all her might. The door opened to reveal Selene standing at the doorway.
"Master?" Shizuka said surprised.
"Hello Shizuka, and to you young mages as well." Selene smiled, bowing to be polite.
"Lady Selene," Kuromu said, standing up and bowing at her. "What brings you here?"
"Oh, I'm here as a messenger. My dear husband wants you and Shizuka to report to his office at the Citadel. There's… been a development." Selene said, almost looking embarrassed as she sheepishly smiled.
"Why? Did something bad happen?" Mana asked.
"Not… bad per se, but… um… it's rather complicated, so it's best that my husband tells you himself." Selene said.
Shizuka softly frowned at this, as a summon without any private invitation meant it was something more than a simple 'meeting' for this. But she complied as the two teleported away to the Citadel for this meeting.
"Hey! What about us?!" Lemon complained, before turning to Mana and her Flavor Magician sisters. "We're going too!"
"No, this is something important." Kiwi denied, "If this truly was something we should've known? A formal invitation would've been given to us to allow entry."
"But aren't you at least a little curious?"
"It's not our importance to know or to go there and sneak a peek." Kiwi glanced at Lemon, knowing she'll do that.
"Hmmmmmm…" Chocolate frowned.
"Chocolate? What's wrong?" Apple asked.
"To be honest… yesterday, my girlfriend said that it wouldn't be the best to come over…. I thought she was just in a bad mood or something. But now? There could be something else…" Chocolate pondered.
"Oh, you are seeing this Amazonian?" Selene asked, mildly surprised at the revelation.
"Y-Yes… she's my girlfriend who wants to learn more outside her country… and I've been giving her such insights." Chocolate blushed shyly.
"I see." Selene said, before sighing, "Well… if your loved one is somehow involved, I suppose I can make an exception of bringing all of you there to the Citadel as well."
"Yes!" Lemon cheered.
"But only as confidants to join this mission. I will not tolerate any tomfoolery from you, Lemon." Selene frowned with a soft glare at the girl.
"Yes Master…" Lemon pouted.
"Kyuu~?" Ruby Carbuncle looked at Amethyst Cat.
"Hmm… You should go just in case Ruby. After all, your power can always summon us if needed." Amethyst nodded to its request to join them.
"Kyuu, kyuu!"
Upon arriving at the Citadel, Kuromu and Shizuka went straight to Endymion's office. When arriving at the doors, Shizuka told the guard that she and Kuromu had arrived. Once given confirmation, the two were given entry into the office where they were greeted by the master of the Citadel himself.
"Shizuka, Kuromu. Greetings." The master of magic greeted the two. "Thank you for coming in on short notice."
"Of course Master Endymion." Shizuka bowed back. "Your wife told us that you needed us for something. So much, that she would not tell us the details herself."
"Yes… about that…" Endymion sighed, sitting back in his chair. "I've been in contact with the country of Amazonia and… there's been something of a dispute of succession as of late."
"A succession dispute?" Kuromu asked. "Like… they can't decide on their next Queen?"
"It's rather complicated." Endymion said. "I'm afraid that our enemy is attempting to take hold on Amazonia."
"Darkbishop? But why?"
"There is a possible factor." Endymion answered. "As you know, Amazonia is a country of warriors who are all women. And while males have been forbidden, they've recently decided to attempt being more open to the rest of the world, after its princess fell in love with a male from the outside. But… It is something that has come far too late. Because of their isolation, their numbers are declining. If it continues this way…"
"The tribe will be extinct…" Shizuka gasped in horror.
"Yes. And that is where the succession problem lies. There are two factions fighting for the future of the tribes' survival. One faction is led by the Amazoness Empress, who seeks to reform the tribe by allowing their fellow tribeswomen to mingle with male outsiders. If this succeeds, they will sire many generations to come. Granted, this must be done out of both parties' volition and not done out of selfishness or duty."
"And I'm guessing the other faction are traditionalists." Kuromu frowned. "They don't want to change their ways and would rather find alternatives to have the tribe prosper."
"Correct. That faction is led by the current Amazoness Queen. These ones are those who'll… 'find any method' if you catch my meaning…"
"You mean…" Kuromu said, but then blushed madly. "Isn't that against natural law to… do that sort of thing?"
"Yes, and if my suspicions are correct, someone has been teaching them certain 'forbidden arts' in order for their tribe to… repopulate." Endymion cleared his throat.
"S-Surely you jest, Master." Shizuka said incredulously. "That sort of magic was forbidden since the founding of our Continent. And for good reason."
"I am well aware, and I wish I was jesting. But those who have escaped their clutches have reported that if you went on your own to that place, you'd be a slave to them. Hence why I'm asking you both to go there and investigate what is going on."
"Is it possible that the Darkbishop is influencing them?" Kuromu asked.
"Most likely, which is why I need your own expertise to find anything that could link them to him." Master Endymion said. "And should you succeed, I'm certain that the Amazoness Empress and her tribe of women will lend you their full support against the Darkbishop."
"I see." Shizuka nodded.
"Will you take this request?" Endymion requested the two, knowing the task they'll have to take for this.
"Yes, of course." Kuromu nodded. "We'll do anything we can to help. After all, in a way, I'm the reason that Darkbishop is doing all this in the first place…"
"It is not your fault, Kuromu." Shizuka said sadly. "You cannot help it."
"I know… it's just…"
"I believe this is something you both should discuss later. If you need any extra assistance or service, please, prepare beforehand." Endymion ordered.
"Yes Master." Shizuka bowed.
"When do we leave?" Kuromu asked.
"As soon as you are ready. Use this medallion to transport you to a safe area of Amazonia." The master of magic said, handing them a stone carved medallion with gems, a fossilized vine around it and animal fur for the rope.
"Oh dearest." Selene's voice called out from behind the door. "You have guests."
"Guests?" Shizuka blinked.
"Send them in." Endymion said, before the doors opened to reveal Selene, Mana, the Flavor Magician Girls, Nia, and Ruby.
Kuromu sighed, "What are you all doing here?"
"It was her idea." They all pointed at Lemon Magician Girl.
"Hey~! In my defense, Choco here is dating an Amazon! I thought it would be smart if we all just went together!" Lemon stuck her tongue out.
Endymion blinked at this, "Oh? Is that true?"
"Y-Yes… I have someone who lives there…" Chocolate nodded with embarrassment.
"I see." Endymion nodded. "Then it's all the more reason that this mission must be accomplished."
"A mission?" Apple Magician blinked.
"Yes, Kuromu and Shizuka will tell you." Endymion said.
And so after leaving the office and being out and about at the Citadel's plaza, Kuromu and Shizuka explained to everyone else about the mission they were assigned to do. To say that Chocolate Magician Girl was distressed was an understatement. Even more so, she doesn't know if her girlfriend was against or for the Darkbishop.
"I knew there was something bad going on. I didn't think it would be this bad…" Chocolate Magician Girl sighed wearily.
"Don't worry! We'll help your girlfriend out and save the tribe!" Lemon smiled optimistically.
"That being said, you'll need to hire some guards to protect you." Apple Magician Girl said to Kuromu.
"But the question is, who?" Kuromu pondered. "It can't just be anybody. They have to be someone we can fully trust."
"Oh! I know some knights!" Mana raised her hand, gleefully.
"You do?" Kuromu asked.
"Yup! And they're the best of the best." Mana winked playfully. "I'll be right back! Don't go anywhere!" She said, before disappearing.
"She's rather enthusiastic about this." Kuromu commented.
"If she is going to who I think it is… We will have no better protection than them." Shizuka noted.
"Eh? You know them too?"
"I do. They are her fiancé's personal knights…"
"Heh~? They must be pretty strong then."
"Strong is an understatement… They're powerful enough to be blessed by Horakty, herself." Kiwi informed the young apprentice.
"Horakty? Never heard of them."
"The Creator God of Light… You could say she was the first god." Shizuka informed him. "At least the first one before the Progenitor himself."
"Some even say she's his wife." Lemon hummed softly.
"That's… a big stretch even for me." Kuromu sweat dropped.
"She is real, Kuromu… So the fact that she herself blessed these three knights means that there truly is no better protection beyond them." Shizuka stated to her apprentice.
"But they always can't leave Mana's fiancé's side. So if she is able to get permission? Then we will truly have no better protection." Kiwi informed.
Moments later, Mana appeared in front of them and with a big smile on her face.
"They agreed! They'll be transported to Amazonia the same time we reach there." Mana smiled with delight.
"I see. That is gladdening to hear." Shizuka nodded with a soft smile.
"So… what do we do in the meantime while we prepare?" Kuromu asked.
"We should gather whatever we need, just in case a battle or worse breaks out." Shizuka informed her young apprentice.
"Right. So that means a lot of shopping." Kuromu said. "Okay, I know just where to go."
*WHOOSH! BAM!*
"Garie?! Gonna need some potions and potion ingredients!" Kuromu showed up at Garie's shop unannounced as he swung the door of her shop open, the door hitting the wall with a loud thud. The Downered Magician, Galia, who was at the counter was startled by the sudden appearance of the Eclipse Alchemist.
"Ngh… what now?" Galia groaned out as it seemed she was having a nap at her desk.
"Is Garie in? It's a bit of an emergency." Kuromu said.
"In the back… *yawns* on a new potion that can make dogs and cats glow in the dark…" Galia yawned out.
"Got it, thanks." Kuromu said, before making his way over to said back of the shop. "Garie, are you-"
*POOF! BOOM!*
"Dammit! Not again!"
Kuromu's eye twitched in annoyance. This was the umpteenth time that every time he visits the shop, something goes terribly wrong with Garie's potion experiment. The gag is starting to become annoying and tiresome at this point.
Garie looked ready to redo the experiment but soon noticed the mage from the corner of her eye as she lifted up her safety goggles, "Ah, Kuro! What brings you to my shop this time? Another potion for impressing your teacher or finally going to let me give you a love potion?"
"Hardly. Also, you're glowing too much." He pointed at her.
"A-re?" Garie blinked, before looking down at herself, before shrugging. "Gotta test it on myself first before giving it the final mass production!"
"Still… why is it that every time I visit the shop, some experiment goes horribly wrong?"
"Heck if I know, bad luck, I guess?"
"You can't be that unlucky…" Kuromu deadpanned.
"Then I should introduce you to our distant cousin. Literally nicknamed, 'Unlucky Mage'." Garie smirked. "You'll love his creations. Maybe try his personal cooking too."
"No thanks…" Kuromu muttered, before clearing his throat. "Anyways, I need some potions and ingredients. Master Endymion gave Shizuka-sensei and I a mission."
"Ooh~ help yourself to the supplies in the back. I'll add it to your tab when you get back." Garie offered with a smile. She then pointed to the door where the sign read 'Storage'.
"Thanks." Kuromu said, as he went over to the storage room and opened it, revealing the storage room with its various amounts of potion bottles and ingredients. Some of them being his own potions.
"So what's the mission if you don't mind me asking?" Garie asked.
"Amazonian succession."
"The land of warrior women?!" Galia gasped out loud, as it seemed that was enough to wake her up as she rushed in the back.
"Huh… you got her finally wide awake." Garie blinked.
"That place has some incredibly rare plants, minerals and animals! Not many can gain simple passage to farm for them!" Galia noted.
"I-"
"PLEASE TAKE ME WITH YOU!"
"Ehhhhhhhh…?" Kuromu got out, before Galia grabbed his jacket and shook him hard.
"THIS IS A ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY TO GET THESE RARE INGREDIENTS TO MAKE RARE POTIONS AND I WILL NOT BE DENIED!"
"Uwhawhawhawhawhawhawha~ stop shaking me~!"
"THEN TAKE ME WITH YOU!"
"Garie, do something!"
"Sorry but if sis is insistent on something? Nothing will deter her… Well, that or a nice trip to the Ryusei Estate's Spas." Garie shrugged.
"TAKE ME WITH YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOU!"
"Alright, alright, alright! I'll take you! Just stop shaking me!"
"Yes! You won't regret this!" Galia said with delight, only to run off as what sounded like the sounds of coffee being made was heard before she returned with a bag, and a large thermos with powerful coffee inside it.
"We're… not leaving now." Kuromu blinked. "I need to make a lot of preparations for this trip."
"Booooooooooooo!" Galia blew a raspberry.
"Just let him prep sis. He promised to take ya, and he's not the type to break one." Garie pointed out as the Downered Magician huffed as she sat down to wait.
"Hehe… sorry about this, Garie. This is gonna be a while until I'm really prepared for it." Kuromu said sheepishly.
"Hey, I'm getting paid either way." The mage shrugged before returning to her work.
For three days and three nights, Kuromu had made preparations for the upcoming mission. Using the ingredients he got from Garie's shop, he produced different kinds of potions as well as producing a good amount of them. It was better for him to make too much than not make enough. Because one never knows when one might need them.
He even went to the Desert Kingdom to visit Kata, the Magical Merchant, and see if he had any artifacts that could prove useful for the mission ahead. Kuromu had no idea what Amazonia had laid ready and waiting for them, especially if Darkbishop Archfiend truly is behind this change in the country. He had to try and think outside the box at what that monster had planned.
Hopefully the artifacts he bought from Kata will be useful. He still hadn't used the medallion he gave him prior to his Thaumaturgical Trial. Maybe it could help him in this mission.
And on the fourth day… Everything was ready.
"Alright, is everyone ready to go?" Kuromu asked, looking at Shizuka, Mana, Nia, Chocolate, Lemon, Galia, and Ruby Carbuncle.
"We're all set!" Nia smiled.
"Good." Kuromu nodded, before turning to Apple, Kiwi, and Berry. "Please look after the house while we're gone."
"And be on your best behavior, Lemon. Remember Lady Selene's words. You are representing the Citadel after all." Kiwi said.
"Oh come on, what problem can I even cause?" Lemon questioned.
"A lot…" Apple and Kiwi deadpanned. Even Berry stared at Lemon with half-lidded eyes.
"P-Please! Name one!"
"How about the time when you and Celtic Guardian-" Mana began, but Lemon clamped Mana's mouth shut with a heavy blush.
"O-Okay, that's enough talking! W-We best get going!"
"Who's this 'Celtic' person?" Kuromu asked.
"Nobody! Nobody important!"
"Yeah, we can't keep them waiting! There's rare plants and minerals for me to grab for the shop!" Galia said impatiently.
"You are rather excited for this," Shizuka noted with surprise.
"Because we're going to Amazonia! Almost no one goes there and this is a once in a lifetime opportunity!" Galia said, before patting Kuromu's back rather hard. "And your student better keep his promise of helping me gather stuff for the rare potions I'm gonna make!"
"Mou… and yet you won't make me a promise…" Lemon puffed her cheeks out.
"You know why…" Kuromu sighed, before looking at the medallion. "Master Endymion says I have to squeeze this and it should take us there."
"Correct. Focus your magic into the gem and it will activate." Shizuka nodded.
Kuromu nodded, before closing his eyes. Upon squeezing it, the medallion glowed as his magic poured into it and a magic glyph appeared below him and the expedition group.
"Kyuu, kyuu~!" Ruby Carbuncle said to her fellow Crystal Beasts.
"Have a safe trip." Topaz Tiger nodded.
"And remember, if you need us, you know what to do." Sapphire Pegasus reminded.
"Kyuu, kyuu!"
Soon several branches, vines, thorns, and shrubbery form around the group. To the others it looked like the plant life came alive and dragged them into their destination as only the glyph that appeared was now burned into the ground below.
For the group though, it seemed nothing changed when the plant life covered around them only for them to return back to the earth. But as they see, they were indeed transported to Amazonia as they see nothing but forests and the sound of animal life around them. It was a literal jungle, as they were surrounded by trees. Not to mention that it was humid.
"Ugh… so hot…" Nia panted.
"Come on, come on! We need to find the camp then I can get to work on finding everything I need!" Galia said, trying to push the group to wherever the rebellion camp is at.
"Hold on Galia. We still need to figure out our surroundings." Kuromu said.
"Hey! Over here!" Mana called out as she waved towards three figures approaching them. Standing there were three knights, all with an aura of power and might coming from them.
The first knight was an older man, with short blonde hair and a nice angular beard of the same color and green eyes. He wore a golden armor set with a sword and shield brimming with power, as it felt as if he was a king in his own rite given his stoic look.
The second knight was a young woman with long blonde hair with a red helmet that's shaped like a spade. She wore red armor with a yellow skirt while wearing red greaves that had diamond-shaped knee guards. She was equipped with her sword and a red diamond-shaped shield that had a spade, club, heart, and diamond on the points of the shield
The final one was a young male with also long blonde hair but his armor was more blue with a few spades on the armor and weapons as he looked more energetic than the other two.
"You made it!" Mana smiled, approaching the three knights. "Thanks for coming, you three! We really appreciate the help!"
"While our duty is to your fiancé, this seemed important enough for him to allow us to help you." The youngest knight informed.
"Indeed. You have our word that we will protect you to the best of our ability." The oldest knight added.
The woman knight then looked towards Kuromu and his group, "Is that the young man you've spoken of, Lady Mana?"
"Mhm! He's Shizuka's personal and only apprentice." Mana giggled, teasing the two, much to their embarrassment. "Kuro, come here! Come here!" She gestured over.
Kuromu looked a bit exasperated, but nonetheless walked over to the Mana and the knights, bowing to them. "Greetings, I'm the Eclipse Alchemist, Kuromu. It's an honor to meet you three."
"Likewise. I'm Seria, The Queen's Knight." The lady knight greeted, "These are my brothers. Soren, The Jack's Knight and the youngest, and our older brother, Sirius, The King's Knight." The two brothers nodded. "Lady Mana has often spoken highly of you."
"Ehehe… so I've heard." Kuromu smiled sheepishly. "I hope her praises weren't over exaggerated."
"If she wasn't engaged to her fiancé? I'd wager she'd try to go after you." Soren smirked, teasing the two.
"Hey~! What's that supposed to mean?" Mana huffed.
"You always did like the nice ones, Lady Mana." Seria giggled softly.
"I still love my fiancé." Mana puffed her cheeks.
"As touching as this is, I believe it would be best for us to reach the Rebel's Camp." Shizuka informed them.
"Ah, Silent Magician. It's been quite some time." Sirius greeted. "You look well."
"Likewise, Sirius. Truly, knowing that the Great Knights of the King is a very big relief for us all." Shizuka smiled softly with a nod.
"No need to worry, our honor as knights will lead us to victory!" Soren declared.
"Stay focused, brother. We are here to investigate the Amazoness Queen's connection to the Darkbishop Archfiend and look into whatever they could be planning here." Seria informed the others.
"C'mon, time's a wastin!" Galia complained.
"Kyuu, kyuu…" Ruby Carbuncle deadpanned.
"Her personal agenda aside, Galia is right. We need to hurry to the Amazoness Village." Chocolate Magician Girl said. "I just hope we're not too late."
"Worried about your girlfriend, Choco?" Lemon teased before being hand chopped by the former.
"Not the time or place, Lemon." Chocolate sighed.
"Very well, let us be on our way." Seria said, before the group started walking into the dense jungle.
Sirius was at the front of the group, with Mana, Chocolate, Galia, and Lemon following him, Nia and Ruby were flanking Kuromu's shoulders as he walked alongside Seria and Shizuka, with Soren guarding the rear. It had been a relatively quiet walk through the humid dense jungle, with nothing but trees and vines in sight. There wasn't even a sign of a water source for that matter either.
As the group followed the lead of the knights, Kuromu could only look around the forest. Even with the humidity, it felt so surreal and serene. This forest and its ecosystem was alive and working within the world for the support it gives. It honestly was a beautiful place and a great honor to be walking in these lands.
"Sir Kuromu."
"H-Huh?" Kuromu snapped out of it as he looked towards the Queen's Knight. "Yes, Lady Seria?"
"Lady Mana has told quite the ordeal about you with a high aptitude for alchemy."
"Well, it's in my title after all." Kuromu said sheepishly. "Using the power of the sun and moon to make potions has its benefits… and mishaps."
"Heh, well as one who dabbles with magic and alchemy? Such moments are bound to happen. Just as long as you remember to keep it by the books and never for your own selfish desires. We don't want you to become another one like Darkbishop Archfiend." Seria reminded.
"That's the last thing on my mind." Kuromu paled. "I'm all for helping others."
This made the knights smile, "Now I see why Lady Mana likes being around you so much." Seria giggled softly.
"Not cheating on my fiancé, you know!" Mana called out from the front.
"Hehehe…" Kuromu chuckled weakly. "As much as that's true, I only see her as a friend."
"Then maybe I can try to-" Lemon attempted to flirt only once again to be chopped by Chocolate. "Ow~!"
"Give it a rest." Chocolate sighed.
"I see." Seria nodded, then looked to the Silent Magician. "You have a good apprentice, Lady Shizuka."
"I am truly proud of him. I honestly did not think I would be able to have an apprentice and do well…" Shizuka smiled softly, feeling embarrassed yet proud.
"Given the trials he's been through, I'd say you did well." Seria stated. "And who knows, if what Lady Mana said is true, perhaps he could be more than your student."
"That is… well…" Shizuka blushed, as did Kuromu.
"That's what we've been trying to tell these two, but no~ they wanna keep holding off." Nia said. "Like, just kiss already and be done with it!"
"Oh? She hasn't even tried to?" Seria questioned with surprise.
"Nope, nada!"
"And here I thought Mana told us everything." Seria noted, "She said they were madly in love."
"I… wouldn't go that far…" Kuromu muttered. "But… Shizuka-sensei is someone important to me."
"Then why not go for it? You're both young after all." Soren shrugged, "Why beat around the bush if you have such strong emotions for one another?"
"Or maybe those emotions can't be held by one woman alone." Nia smirked.
"Eh?!" Kuromu gawked. "Nia, what are you-"
"I mean, there's no laws against how many one can have as their spouse! Why not go for it and take as many as you want? I'm sure you have the stamina for that." Nia giggled.
"N-Nia!" Shizuka stammered. "W-Why would you propose such an idea?"
"I'm… inclined to agree." Kuromu muttered.
"I mean, this is Amazonia. Such thoughts and desires are bound to happen." Nia whistled innocently.
"Ooooooh, does this mean he's actually on the market?!" Lemon asked excitedly.
"Don't get any funny ideas…" Kuromu deadpanned. "Besides, I don't think that's plausible, let alone realistic, given… er-hem, how much work that is for one man…"
"You'd be surprised~" Nia snickered.
"That's not reassuring…" Kuromu muttered. "Let's say for the sake of argument that I do take more than one spouse. Realistically, how many do you really think I should have? And I want you to reeeeeally think about this…" He emphasized.
"Oh, 20 tops." Nia answered bluntly.
"That's not realistic!"
"You're just underestimating yourself." The pixie shrugged.
"Kyuu, kyuu…" Ruby Carbuncle deadpanned at Nia.
"Hey, you know it's true, Ruby! Besides, don't you wanna see so many cute kids running about? Pampering you?" Nia smirked teasingly.
"Kyuu?" Ruby Carbuncle tilted her head.
"Don't even entertain it, Ruby…" Kuromu sighed.
"I have to agree with Sir Kuromu, the number you proposed seems… unrealistic." Seria said.
"See? I told you." Kuromu stuck his tongue out at Nia.
"But…" Seria trailed off, making Kuromu almost look at the Queen's Knight with slight shock, "Should Kuromu choose to entertain the idea, with Lady Shizuka's permission, of course, another suitor or two wouldn't be too much."
"L-Lady Seria!" Kuromu stammered.
"Oh, Seria is a complete nut when it comes to romance. She claims she's unsuitable… but in reality, some are too scared to confront her." Mana teased, returning it back to the knights. "Same can be said with the other two."
"L-Lady Seria, surely you do not-" Shizuka tried to protest.
"I'm… not against the idea." Seria somewhat comically looked away, with half-lidded eyes. "Your apprentice is… quite attractive."
"W-What?" Shizuka looked flabbergasted.
"See? Hopeless romantic." Nia shook her head.
"I'm never looking at my life the same way again…" Kuromu muttered.
"Hold!" The King's Knight said, prompting them to stop.
"Hey, what's the hold up? We're-" Galia was cut off, when Sirius motioned for her to quiet down. Everyone was confused at first, but then… the King's Knight slowly drew out his sword. Seeing how serious this suddenly became, the other two knights and mages drew out their weapons.
"Be on your guard." Soren muttered, looking around.
Everyone stood still, not knowing when the enemy might show up.
*WOOSH!*
"Watch out!" Kuromu shouted when he swung his staff. A dart that was aiming for Lemon suddenly bounced off his staff, prompting it to stick to a tree instead.
"T-Thank you, Kuromu…" Lemon got out, as she couldn't even predict the attack.
"A dart?" Galia said, before pulling it off the tree to examine with a tweezer. "Oooh, you're lucky. The tip's laced with poison."
"P-Poison?" Lemon squeaked.
"Kyuuuuuuuuuuuu…" Ruby hissed, her fur standing on end, as her back arched.
The bushes and the branches shivered and shook as from it came several women, each one with tanned or darker skin, wearing animal pelts and weapons fashioned from the bones of them. Each one holding either a blow dart, and arrow or a club. It seemed everyone was surrounded.
"Seria, Soren!" Sirius called out. The three knights knew what to do and got in a circular formation to protect the group.
"A-Are they… for the Queen or Empress?" Chocolate said nervously.
"State your business, outsiders!" One of the amazons spoke up, waiting for their response.
"I am Silent Magician!" Shizuka stated. "We come as emissaries on behalf of Master Endymion of the Magical Citadel! We request an audience with the Amazoness Empress!"
"Show us proof!"
Kuromu quickly showed the medallion, holding it high in the air for them to see. In moments the one leading these defending Amazons held up their arm as it then caused the other Amazon warriors to lower their weapons.
The one leading them dropped from their perch and walked over to inspect the medallion, only to nod to the others.
"Then it is as you said. Good, we worried it was more of the forces of evil that were out there when one of our own detected the magical transportation."
"We apologize if we startled you." Kuromu bowed.
"Kyuuuuuuu…"
"Ruby, it's okay. Stand down." Kuromu said gently.
"A-A Crystal Beast?" The enforcer leader gasped with surprise.
"Is… that so strange?"
"Please, follow us to our village…" The enforcer requested boldly. Kuromu looked at Shizuka in confusion. The Silent Magician only nodded in confirmation, then the boy looked to the enforcer and nodded towards her, who then nodded back. "Sisters, inform our Empress of their arrival!"
With a nod, a few left quickly to inform and prepare for the group as the others returned into the shadows to keep patrolling for any danger. The enforcer leader gestured to follow her as she walked ahead.
"That went well… I guess…" Lemon Magician Girl sighed.
"You okay?" Mana asked, concerned.
"Just… was surprised… didn't even get to sense them before that first dart went off…." Lemon sighed with relief.
"Welp, be glad that boyo saved ya." Galia said. "Now c'mon, I wanna get some ingredients while we can!"
"Still always focusing on the prize…" Chocolate sighed, shaking her head softly.
The group, now being escorted by the Amazons, made their way towards the Amazoness village. Upon arriving at said village, they were large wooden gates, the wall lined with logs that had spikes on top. Two standing torches flanked the gate, followed by two wooden watchtowers and two Amazon guards, at the front of the door.
As the gates opened, within it was the hidden country of Amazonia, Hiltritea. And of course as the legends and rumors say, it was composed of nothing but women of all types, but mostly warriors. Amazons as far as the eye can see of all shapes, sizes and types. Yet there was still only one word to describe such a sight…. Utterly 'beautiful'.
"…I think I'm in Heaven…" Lemon muttered.
"Heh, it seems yet we swayed another woman to our sights." The enforcer chuckled, as it seemed that certain 'intruders' who had seen it… may not have left due to the stunning beauty of the warrior women within.
Meanwhile, Chocolate Magician Girl was looking around until her eyes widened, seeing someone. "Tiria!"
In the slight distance was a beautiful amazon woman who wore more of a spiritual garb that was green with a red cloak on top. She had brown eyes and long purple hair in two long ponytails that fell to her ankles, with a necklace of carnivore animal teeth and carried a wooden staff with a golden spiral around the tip with a cerulean gem in the center. This was the Amazoness Spiritualist.
"Chocolate?" Tiria gasped, before the Chocolate Magician Girl threw herself into Tiria's arms.
"My spiritual star!" Chocolate smiled happily from being with her girlfriend once more. "Thank the gods you're alright!" She said as she let go. "Why didn't you tell me that something like this was going to happen?"
"I'm sorry, my beaming moon… I didn't want you to get hurt because of this conflict… That's why I wanted you to return home that day…" The Amazon Spiritualist frowned softly.
"Oh Tiria, you know I'll always be here for you…" Chocolate Magician Girl said, caressing Tiria's face before the two kissed. Kuromu had the decency to look away, to give them their moment.
"Aww… say, wanna give that a try, Kuromu?" Lemon teased the young mage.
"Don't even think about it!" Nia huffed.
"Ah, so this is the one that captured the heart of our Amazoness Spiritualist?" The enforcer smiled, "When this is over, we can have a proper celebration. For now, our Empress needs to see you all."
"Yes of course, lead the way." Kuromu nodded, before looking back at Chocolate and Tiria who had just broken the kiss. "Chocolate?"
"I think we should leave them be. They obviously miss each other a lot." Mana smiled. "Unless-"
"Nope. Not even entertaining that thought." Kuromu said vehemently, before moving along.
"Oh, don't be so stiff." Mana giggled, walking next to him. "I'm sure that kind of thing crossed your mind at some point."
"Sadly, he blocked me from reading his dreams lately. You could say he didn't mind the idea back then." Nia sighed with a shrug. "But you know how boys are."
"Oi…" Kuromu deadpanned.
And so the group minus Chocolate were led through the village of Hiltritea, where everyday life of Amazon women were displayed. Galia decided to break off and go into their bazaar to try and get rare ingredients. Shizuka then ordered Lemon to stay behind and accompany the Downered Magician much to the former's chagrin.
Moments later, the enforcer had Kuromu, Shizuka, Mana, and the Three Knights standing in front of the largest straw hut in the village, the lining of the roof being decorated with animal bones and teeth.
Upon entering the hut, they were met with the sight of a large area, where it not only served as the throne room, but also their Great Hall for feasts, meetings, and celebrations. But also a few heads on plaques that weren't animals, ones that were obviously just monsters or intruders with malicious intent to the land and its living creatures.
"Welcome… so you're the ones that Endymion had offered to help us…" A powerful voice of the Empress echoed out from her throne of bones.
Sitting on the throne was a woman with tan skin, wild white hair and amber eyes. There were red tribal markings on her body, wearing an animal skull on her head as her crown. Two boar skulls acted as her shoulder armor, wearing a red and beige choker, a green sleeveless bra, and a tattered brown skirt held by another skull, adorned with a teeth and jewelry belt around her waist. She wore bandages on her wrist and legs that were covered by her framed gauntlets and greaves and a red cape was behind her.
Next to her throne was what looked to be a weapon forged from the remains of what could've been one of the strongest dragons to have ever lived, reforged into a sword. And finally was what looked to be a battle born tiger, one that could rival Topaz Tiger itself in terms of power as it sat next to her throne.
"Greetings, Empress." Shizuka said, kneeling on one knee in respect. "I am the Silent Magician, Shizuka. We are honored to be in your presence."
"Ah… I've heard of you before… Yes… the mage who had been cursed with a Vow of Silence since birth due to their power… It is indeed an honor to meet you as well." The Empress bowed with respect as it seemed she knew a lot about others even from this remote location. She then eyed the young man. "And you must be her apprentice."
Kuromu flinched, before kneeling on one knee as well. "Y-Yes, your Excellency. I'm Kuromu Kururugi, the Eclipse Alchemist. I'm also honored to be in your presence."
The Empress gave a slight smile, "Heh, even with your proper manners, you show potential… If you weren't courted by your master, I might've taken you as a potential mate."
"P-Please, there's no need to waste your praise on someone so lowly such as I…" Kuromu said, feeling slightly intimidated.
"Still, I'm glad Endymion listened to my plea… If not, we would've not only been crushed, but the dark forces that's pushing the Queen would turn Amazonia into nothing but a magical wasteland…"
"Yes," Kuromu nodded. "Unfortunately, I've indirectly become the reason Darkbishop Archfiend is mobilizing his forces. While I cannot control my nature, I humbly ask for your forgiveness." He requested. "I've placed a great burden on you and your fellow sisters. If there's any way I could atone-"
"Why should I blame you?" The Empress questioned, causing him to look at her in surprise, "True, you dealt with the monster before. But it's not like you directed it to our nation. I see no reason to be angry nor to punish you for it."
"Your Excellency, I…" Kuromu bowed down, his body trembling. Shizuka stood up and placed a hand on his shoulders for moral support. "Words can't describe… how grateful I am to receive your kindness and compassion…"
"Hmph, glad you have proper manners for your standing, boy." The Empress smiled before looking at the master, "Now then… I take it you all have the rundown on the situation…"
"Yes. Master Endymion has told us much." Shizuka answered, after helping Kuromu to his feet, who managed to calm down. "As such, we will stand with you. If we are victorious against the Amazoness Queen…"
"Then you and my sisters have our full support against the Darkbishop." The Amazoness Empress nodded.
"We truly do thank you for your support." Shizuka bowed, knowing that this small civil war has to be won if they have any hope against the Darkbishop's forces.
"This is merely the beginning. We have much work ahead of us." The Amazoness Empress said. "That being said, all of you have had an arduous journey. Rest and take a load off. I'll see to it that you are treated properly as honored guests."
"Thank you, Your Excellency." Kuromu bowed.
The Empress nodded before clapping her hands as what looked to be servant amazons came in to help the group to their huts to rest and for any questions they may need.
Throughout the day, the group had time to explore the village and what it had to offer, though Shizuka wanted to discuss more with the Amazoness Empress about their plans. Kuromu had decided to tag along with Mana, Nia, and Ruby to explore their surroundings. Even Seria decided to accompany them.
"So? What do you think of the country, Kuromu? Besides all the pretty ladies walking around and staring." the mage giggled.
"It's… unique to say the least." Kuromu commented. "Hard to believe that despite how many people there are, it's still on its way to extinction…"
"One reason the princess not only shows that its okay to go outside and find someone, but that its perfectly normal to be with a man too." Mana smiled, "Yes, they have tradition… but as we all know, if one can't move forward into the future? It'll fade away like every other forgotten nation and empire."
"Right." Kuromu nodded.
"Also… you really didn't need to apologize to the Empress like that." Mana smiled sadly. "I mean I could understand why, but none of it is your fault."
"I know, it's just…"
"Kyuu." Ruby Carbuncle rubbed her head against his to comfort him.
"Heh, thanks Ruby. Really." Kuromu smiled sadly.
"Kyuu! Kyuu!"
"To be honest, I myself am still surprised… You actually found the lost Crystal Beasts…" Seria noted as she was given the rundown not too long ago on how Kuromu found them. "The pha- *cough* I mean… our leader, tasked us to find them yet we couldn't locate a single trace… Yet you found them like they were a fancy rock in a pond."
"They were actually in the care of Adores, the Card Ejector." Kuromu answered.
"Still… legends say they were sealed away by a powerful mage for the 'proper day'. Not just anyone can undo such a spell like it was a simple sandwich rapping." Seria pointed out. "Whatever you have? It's special… and something that could change everything once you figure out what that is."
"I see." Kuromu said, though in his mind, he knew exactly what that was.
"Boyo, over here!" A familiar voice called out, as he looked up to see Galia and Lemon Magician Girl approaching them, the former having a plethora of potion ingredients sealed in jars… and currently floating alongside her.
"Someone's been splurging gold…" Kuromu commented.
"She took hours to find all of this… IN JUST ONE STORE!" Lemon groaned out as it seemed she was just exhausted from trying to get the alchemist to move onward before collapsing to the ground.
"Well, at least it kept you busy." Mana giggled.
"Hey~!" Lemon whined.
"So how did the meeting go?" Galia asked.
"It went pretty well. We're gonna discuss things later on, but for the moment, we're relaxing." Kuromu answered.
"Ah that's good. Even more so that you didn't try to fling yourself to the Empress." Galia snickered.
"Actually, she said that Shizuka wasn't courting Kuromu, she would've had him as a potential mate." Mana giggled.
"What?! No fair! I called dibs first!" Lemon cried out comically.
"Anyways," Kuromu said, looking back at Galia. "What are you gonna do with all of that?"
"Oh you know, test, test, or and test. Can't just bring all this back home yet. Don't wanna accidentally make another Midas Incident, do we?"
"Midas Incident?"
"Basically, long ago one alchemist who was in a poor, desolate village wanted to try and save his village with whatever money he could get. He later finds the proper ingredients to turn anything into solid gold… sadly, he used it on his own touch, so every time he touches something? It became gold… he turned his village by accident into a land of gold…" Galia informed him.
"Yikes… what happened to him after?"
"Nobody knows. Some say he died, some say he's still wandering the world wanting to lift the curse he basically made himself… some say he fled to an unknown land of gold to become its immortal ruler." Galia shrugged, "Sadly that was over a millennia ago. Nobody knows the truth of where he went, only that his village is all that remains of his tale."
"I see."
"But anyways, what better way to relax than to experiment, and you're helping me out!"
"Eh?! But I-"
"Didn't you tell me and my sis that you want to also be a good alchemist with your magical mage training?" Galia reminded.
"Well, yes-"
"Then this is part of that training! Come on, now. If we do this right, we may be able to get all of the testing done by noon tomorrow!" Galia said, gripping Kuromu's collar and dragging him away to the hut she was staying in.
"But I need my sleep!"
"Nope, can't work with that. You're staying up and I have the perfect concoction for that!" Galia said, then forcing him to drink something from that nasty vile, yet any tiredness he was having vanished.
"What did you give me?!"
"Oh just something I made from frog warts, tadpole jelly, spider eyes, and a dash of cat vomit."
*BLEEEH! BLEEEEH! BLEEEEH!*
Kuromu took an empty leather satchel from a small dimension pocket and forced himself to vomit the contents.
While he managed to get his stomach contents out, he was still forced to experiment with Galia on the rare ingredients. So with a slightly heavy heart, he brewed rare potions with the ingredients that Galia bought from the bazaar. But when night fell, he was done for the day. As of now, he's walking over to a hot spring nearby.
"I swear that Galia is a piece of work…" Kuromu grumbled, a towel wrapped around his waist as he made his way over.
It was then that he passed by Chocolate's guest hut, but as he did… he heard moaning from her… and someone else, mostly like Tiria. Blushing heavily, knowing exactly what's happening, he briskly walked away. 'Nope, nope, nope, nope, nope, nope, nope! Don't even think about it!'
He eventually found himself at the hot springs and afterwards dipped himself in.
*DONK-DONK!*
"Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa… I needed this…" Kuromu sighed.
"Kyuuuu…" Ruby sighed from the nice warm waters as it floated around him.
"Mind if I join you, boy?"
"Eh?" Kuromu blinked, before looking up and seeing… the Amazoness Empress?! "Y-Your Excellency!" He stammered, seeing the Empress in her… natural beauty. "I uh-"
"Heh, first time seeing something like this without the pretext of skinmanship?" The Empress smirked softly. Kuromu dipped himself into the water, his eyes looking away as he blew bubbles, but nodded.
"Well, I'm flattered. But don't worry, as I said at the start. If you weren't already courted by your master? I would've had you in my bed long ago. So relax and just enjoy the waters." The Empress said before dipping into it herself. "Ahhhhhhhhh, as always, the water's just right, don't you think?"
"It is." Kuromu nodded as he sat at the pool in silence, trying his hardest not to stare.
"So… I've heard a lot about you, boy… such as how you don't remember where you're from." The Empress revealed.
"I'm… guessing Shizuka-sensei told you about my past." Kuromu assumed.
"No. I have my own intelligence network. I always make sure to know everything to those who enter Amazonia." She revealed, sipping some alcoholic beverage.
"I see." Kuromu nodded. "Lately, I haven't recovered any more memories since my Trials with the Charmers."
"Give it time. There's clearly a reason as to why you lost it." The Empress pointed out, "If magic itself can't bring such things to the surface, then its something more than that… like a heavenly pact."
"A heavenly pact? I don't understand." Kuromu looked confused.
"As you know, there are gods, deities and beings beyond our realm. Ones that can control reality like a child's toy… For some people out there? They do what they can to make contact with such beings for many reasons. One of which is known as a 'Heavenly Pact' a binding vow to whoever they contacted with. This is a type of vow that binds the contractor and the one who requested into something where they offer one thing in exchange for another." The Empress took a sip of her drink.
"Think of it as… a promise. You can't break such a thing otherwise it could ruin what you made…. But for a heavenly pact? It's basically tying you to the words of the one you contacted… If one of you breaks it? You'll cease to exist."
"And… you're saying this 'Heavenly Pact' is why I can't remember?"
"Correct. Because if magic itself can do almost anything, be unable to bring your memories back? Then its something beyond reality itself that caused it." The Empress nodded.
"I see."
"In fact, you're attempting to make a 'Heavenly Pact' with the Rainbow Dragon, yes?"
Kuromu looked surprised, "That's… right, how did you-"
The Empress smiled softly, "Like I said, I have my network… including who you're looking for to use it on."
"Elesia…" Kuromu muttered. "That's right… I almost forgot why I was on this particular journey to begin with…"
"Lucky for you… the old capital of Amazonia, where the Queen is? There's a scroll there that mentions it. Once we kick her to the curb? It's all yours." The Empress revealed, sipping her drink again.
"That would be most helpful." Kuromu nodded. "Speaking of… I know you said that you'll give your support against Darkbishop, should we do this for you. But… it's more than just that, isn't it."
"Darkbishop Archfiend… is an immortal monster. One that defies the natural order of this world…" The Empress frowned, "If left to its own machinations, it could destroy everything here… And I don't want to see what this world will become if it gets its own way. Nature and us have to be coexisting. Otherwise it'll become nothing more than a dead world."
"I understand." Kuromu nodded, but looked sheepish, "But… that's not what I was referring to. I'm sure there's more to your agreement to support us,"
"Heh, you're catching on." The Empress chuckled. "I'm just seeing if your master is worthy, is all. Worthy of the power that you hold onto."
"So… you know about that."
"Yes. All that aside, in order to truly and fully support you in your battle against the Darkbishop, your master and I must form a sisterhood."
"A sworn sisterhood? What… does that entail exactly?"
"Sorry, can't say… Not unless you decide to take up my offer?" She winked at him.
Kuromu blushed at this, "It's… that simple?" He asked shyly.
"Ho~? Actually interested in being one of my potential mates?" She smirked teasingly.
"Well… given what Nia said earlier today, and… Lady Seria somewhat endorsing it…"
"Hahaha! That Queen's Knight is my kind of lady! I'll probably ask her too!" The Empress chuckled with delight. "To put it simply, I choose several suitors that peak my interest. They'll have to prove themselves that they're strong enough to court me. So I go around for the proper ones and invite them. Once the year reaches its end? A tournament will start. The last three who remain shall become my mates, and of course the biggest detail is that they'll help me have many children. Ten each from them."
"That's…" Kuromu gulped.
"Of course, I never force them. If they don't wish to, then they are free to go anywhere they please. Be it here or somewhere out there… I still remember my first love… Sadly someone beat me to it." She sighed, sipping her drink again.
"What were they like?"
"He was someone great. One who had an amazing ambition and dream… His prowess and heart won me over… Sadly before I could ask, he was taken by someone else."
"I'm sorry to hear that." He apologized.
"It is fine. I hold no grudge. After all, victory comes from the one who strikes first." The Empress noted as she looked up at the night sky. "Just know this, Kuromu… If you don't take that first step? Someone else will take your beloved Shizuka away from you… don't wait too long to tell her…" She said with a whisper, before patting the young mage's head as she got up to dry off.
As she got to dress up, she looked over to what looked to be a locket, opening it inside as within it was a younger version of her… and Endymion. A warm smile on her face from those memories before she closed it up and made her way off.
'Fight for her, Kuromu. Otherwise you'll regret never telling her…'