Konosuba 500

by AitchBerry

500 years after the Demon King's defeat, the world faces ruin again! Papitas, a clumsy martial artist with ridiculous strength, teams up with Lalemana Dustiness, a hot-tempered noble, to fulfill a prophecy. From bickering to battling, their chaotic quest to recruit the elusive Sapphire Spirit spirals into absurd adventures, quirky allies, and over-the-top battles!

6. Chapter 5: A fateful meeting!

Chapter 5: A fateful meeting!Part 1

A few days earlier.

The Axis Cathedral grounds buzzed with tension as church leaders bickered over recent concerns. Archbishop Auberon, lounging in his chair with his feet propped up on a lavish desk, seemed the only one unfazed.

"Yes, yes, that's quite the pickle," he mused, taking a lazy swig of tea.

"Huh, yeah," Arthur, standing among the concerned group of priests and priestesses gathered in front of him, adjusted his glasses with a frown. "Look, Archbishop Auberon, I think we should consider canceling this year's pilgrimage. It's too dangerous."

Auberon raised an eyebrow, finally pushing himself to sit up. "Tell you what, Artie: I'll cancel it, if you're the one to break the news to the thousands of Lady Aqua's followers who've already flooded the city."

"Archbishop Auberon, I enjoy a good prank as much as anyone," Arthur continued, adjusting his glasses, "But this is serious, you read the report from the Royal Army, the Demon Queen's Army has been advancing much faster, I just think—"

"Dangerous, schdangerous," Auberon interrupted with a grin, waving his hand dismissively. "Artie, you're underestimating the sheer might of Lady Aqua's followers! We've got adventurers with advanced classes, you know?"

Arthur, eyebrows raised, clearly wasn't convinced. "But even if we do… I just think calling in a brigade or two from the Royal Army wouldn't hurt."

"Fine, fine," Auberon sighed dramatically. "I'll request a full brigade from the king. Happy? The pilgrimage can't be canceled, Artie. Not this year."

Arthur tilted his head, curiosity piqued. "Why this year, though? It's not like we haven't canceled before. Remember five years ago? We had to scrap the whole thing because everyone in charge got plastered the night before departure!"

Auberon's face grew oddly solemn. "I don't know why, but… it feels like a sign from Lady Aqua herself. I have this… feeling. This pilgrimage is important, more than any before."

Arthur gave him a skeptical look. "And, uh, this 'feeling' came to you…?"

Auberon's seriousness vanished as quickly as it had appeared. "Just came to me! Strong hunch," he said, leaning back again. "Anyway, relax. I'll handle the extra protection. Just… try to remind me a few times, alright?"

Part 2

A grand city materialized around Papitas as the blinding light of teleportation faded, revealing the vibrant streets and towering architecture of Arcanletia. Excited, she dashed forward, finally free to explore the first new city she's seen in weeks.

"Wow, so this is the capital of this country!" she exclaimed, stopping to take in the sights.

"Temporary capital," the knight captain corrected with a sigh. "Miss, I've already explained this to you."

"Sure, because something that's lasted for over two hundred years is really 'temporary,' right?" Papitas shot back with a playful smirk, "Anyway, good riddance, Axel. Here's hoping I never see that dump again!"

"Let's keep moving," the captain said briskly, gesturing toward a waiting carriage beyond the bustling gate. "A carriage is ready to take us to the Royal Residence, you got a very important meeting."

"Yeah, yeah," Papitas replied, waving him off before throwing a glance at the circle of heavily armored knights around her. "Mind telling your people to back off a bit? You said I'm not a prisoner, remember?"

The captain cleared his throat. "Of course, miss. It's just a precaution. Direct orders from the king—to ensure your safety."

Papitas rolled her eyes as the group passed under the large gate leading to the city, though she craned her neck to catch glimpses of the sprawling cityscape. Her interest piqued as they approached a massive towering statue depicting two women.

"Who are they?" she asked, shoving through the guards to get a better look.

The captain pointed. "The city's patrons. On the right, Lady Aqua, the goddess of the Axis Church, and on the left, Lady Serena, the first Grand Cardinal of the church. They say Lady Serena's deeds are the reason the church is living in a golden age." He delivered the speech with the precision of someone who'd recited it a hundred times.

Papitas eyed him suspiciously, "You happen to know a lot about the Axis, huh?"

"Well of course I do!" he replied proudly, "I never miss mass at the Axis Cathedral!"

Papitas grimaced, her mind flashing to her chaotic encounters with the Axis cultists back in Axel. She hurried into the carriage, not eager to continue the conversation. Her previous encounters taught her one thing quite clearly: she doesn't want anything to do with the Axis.

Inside the carriage, she slumped into a seat far from the windows, surrounded by a wall of armored knights. Her irritation simmered as the captain joined, ensuring her every move was boxed in.

"Let me sit by the window," she muttered, slipping on her sunglasses.

"I'm afraid that's out of the question," the captain replied sternly. "Orders are to keep you from attracting any unwanted attention."

Papitas shot up. "Listen, you haven't explained what the king wants with me, and since I'm apparently not a prisoner, I don't see why I should follow your orders. If this is how it's going to be, I'm leaving."

The knights shifted nervously as Papitas grabbed the door handle. "W-wait, miss!" the captain stammered before hastily shoving one of the knights out of the window seat. "Here—please, sit by the window. Just… don't draw attention."

Papitas flopped down by the window, smirking as she took in the unfamiliar streets rolling by, glad to see a different view. The scene brought to mind her arrival back in Axel when the knights had found her at the guild.

"Send word to the Royal Residence!" the captain had barked back in Axel, half-panicked. "Tell them Code: Crimson is confirmed! Make preparations; we're leaving at once!"

"No, I don't think I will," she'd deadpanned, to the utter disbelief of everyone in the guild.

"B-b-but, miss!" the captain had spluttered.

"Listen," she'd said, folding her arms. "First of all, I have no idea where Arcanletia even is or why you're after me. I can't leave town anyway, I have a little debt and I'm pretty sure I'm not a wanted criminal, so I'll just take a quest and be on my way—"

"Please, miss!" The captain had practically grabbed her by the arm, looking like he'd throw himself at her feet, "We don't know the details ourselves; we just know that the king has been looking for a someone of the Crimson Magic Clan, and we were told to take one to him as soon as one was found!"

"Mmh…" Papitas had pretended to consider it, tapping her chin thoughtfully, "Well we are amazing after all, I mean all the adventurer parties in this town ran away, intimidated by my power. But I still can't leave, you know, debt and all."

With a determined flourish, the captain had placed a sealed decree on the guild counter. "By the king's command, any and all debts held by Miss Papitas in Axel are hereby nullified."

Papitas had raised an eyebrow, impressed but hiding it with a sly smile. "Debt's cleared, huh? Well, you know… I still can't go around on an empty wallet."

Without missing a beat, the captain had dropped a bulging sack of coins at her feet. "One million Eris. Consider it an advance."

"…well, you see—" Papitas scratched her cheek, searching for words.

"Miss, we've been given orders—and resources—to do everything necessary to bring you safely to Arcanletia," the captain interjected, raising an eyebrow. "Within reason, of course. Please cooperate."

Papitas groaned, lifting her arms in a halfhearted surrender, "Ugh, fine. But you better don't be annoying."

The knights erupted in cheers, and the captain sighed, relieved. "Hopefully, we'll get a reward for this," he muttered, barely hiding his exhaustion.

Before long, one of his underlings arrived with a message from Arcanletia: preparations were complete for the MVG, "Most Valuable Guest," as he'd proudly proclaimed. The captain ordered his team to gather outside the guild.

"Well then, we're off, come Miss Papitas," the captain ordered his team to get ready.

"Yeah, yeah," Papitas said while yawning and stretching, "I still want to know what you want from me though…"

Outside the guild, the captain ordered his team to group up, ready to cast Teleportation magic, "Alright, let's go—!"

"Hold on," Papitas interrupted, turning on her heel. "I just remembered—I need to buy something real quick. Be back in a bit!"

Before she could take two steps, all the knights practically screamed, "No!" in unison, their faces pale with panic.

"M-Miss!" the captain stammered, recovering from the collective heart attack. "Please, don't run off like that! We can't afford to lose you."

"I wasn't going to run off!" Papitas huffed, visibly offended. "Just wanted something for the trip, is all!"

"I'm sure whatever you need is readily available in Arcanletia," the captain resumed, catching his breath, "Let's just please go, we already reported to Arcanletia, we can't make them wait."

"Ohohohohohoho," Papitas chuckled to herself as the carriage rolled forward, passing through increasingly extravagant streets. She didn't notice the knights' looks of horror as she tried out a series of over-the-top villainous laughs.

The traffic was also getting lighter and lighter, as the route the caravan that took Papitas moved to closed streets, by the time the reach a major avenue the caravan were the only vehicles in the street. Crowds of people gathered in the sidewalks to see what was happening, this kind of treatment was only reserved to very important foreign dignitaries after all, and there hasn't been any announcement of one coming.

Papitas, of course, liked the attention, waving and blowing kisses, which promptly threw the captain into a tizzy. "Miss, please! A bit of discretion!" he hissed, eyes darting nervously at the crowd.

They finally arrived at an opulent mansion surrounded by rows of soldiers, blocking almost every inch of space. Rows of knights leading to the mansion's main entrance, right where Papitas carriage stopped, stood a short man accompanied by a butler and a maid.

The carriage door swung open, and Papitas kicked it the rest of the way, standing proud in front of the army that came receive her, "Yes, it is I, Papitas of the Crim—!", she was interrupted the by the captain, who hastily covered her mouth, causing them both to fall on the ground, "What are you doing!?" Papitas yelled after forcefully getting the captain off her.

"Miss, please I told you not to say where you're from!" the captain retorted, dusting himself.

"Didn't you say I was some kind of savior—!?" Papitas continued, her face full of dirt.

"Ahem," the short, balding man in a crisp, expensive suit cleared his throat, eyeing the two with a mix of amusement and annoyance. His suit was exquisitely tailored, his mustache meticulously groomed, though his gleaming forehead hinted that his hairline had long since declared independence.

"What do you want fatty? Can't you see we're having a talk here?" Papitas got into the man's face, before the captain forcefully got her to back off.

"P-prime Minister!" the captain yelled, "This is her, Miss Papitas, Code: Crimson. As you can see, she's a bit …feisty."

"Miss, could you remove the sunglasses," the prime minister asked Papitas, seemingly unbothered.

"Not even introducing yourself and barking orders, do people in this country have no manners?" Papitas said, finally dusting herself off.

"Of course, how could I be so rude?" the prime minister said, "I am Gerald Frost, prime minister of the Kingdom of Belzerg…" his words trailed off as Papitas took off her sunglasses mid speech, revealing her bright crimson eyes. Frost paled as he began to sweat, the butler and maid behind him doing the same, "… have you fully checked!?" he turned to the captain.

"Y-yes of course, she was checked in the adventurer's guild in Axel and we double checked ourselves, there's no doubt. Miss Papitas is from the Crimson Magic Clan."

"That's right!" Papitas grinned, striking a ridiculous pose. "You wanted me because of the legendary power of my clan, right?"

Frost regained his composure, dabbing his bald forehead with a handkerchief. "Y-yes, of course. This way, please, Miss Papitas. His Majesty the King is expected to be back from the front lines shortly. Meanwhile, these two will attend to your every need and show you to our finest guest quarters," he signaled to the butler and maid, he then leaned closer to them, making sure Papitas couldn't listen, "Make absolutely sure she doesn't go anywhere."

"Yes, sir!" both replied, nerves rattled but determined.

"N-now, please excuse me." Frost shook Papitas' hand, attempting a smile. "Make yourself at home, Miss Papitas. I'll see you soon for your meeting with the king."

As the prime minister scurried off, the butler and maid gestured for Papitas to follow.

Papitas placed a hand on the captain's shoulder. "Well, whatever-your-name-was, I'm sure my upcoming heroics will make you proud. Later!" She trotted after the staff, barely containing her excitement.

Papitas barely kept her jaw from dropping at the sheer opulence of the Royal Residence's main hall. An immense chandelier dominated the ceiling, dripping with hundreds of shimmering crystals, casting a soft, golden light across the polished marble floors below. In the center, a grand staircase rose like something out of a book, carpeted in rich scarlet with golden accents. Paintings and statues lined the walls, with gilded frames and busts of past rulers, each artwork more extravagant than the last. Maids and guards moved seamlessly about, glancing her way but keeping their distance, clearly aware of their peculiar guest.

"This way," the butler intoned, gesturing up the staircase with an almost theatrical bow.

As they climbed, a maid sidled up to Papitas. "Miss, would you like anything to eat or drink? We have only the finest ingredients, the chefs will make anything you desire," she said, her gaze lingering a bit too long.

Papitas gave a polite smile. "Thanks, but I'm good. Already stuffed myself at the Axel adventurer's guild." She rolled her shoulder, wincing a little. "Though, I could use a quick nap..."

The maid perked up immediately, moving in just a little too close. "Oh, the bed in your room is very comfortable. But if you'd like," she leaned in, a mischievous gleam in her eye, "I could give you a nice, relaxing massage first. I know my way around every muscle of the female body..." She wiggled her fingers in a strange, wavy motion, her face flushed.

Papitas chuckled nervously, edging away from the maid's intense gaze as they reached the third floor. A knight followed them, his eyes sharp and watchful.

The butler led her to a massive, luxurious bedroom fit for royalty. The bed was a four-poster draped in thick, silk curtains, with pillows fluffed to a height that could practically swallow a person whole. A large, ornate hairdresser sat in the corner, lined with neatly arranged bottles and brushes. To the side was a marble-tiled bathroom complete with a spacious sunken tub that could fit several people comfortably.

Papitas practically threw herself onto the bed, letting out a long, contented sigh as she sank into the mattress. "Ahhhhhhh… First time I've laid on a real bed in weeks!"

The butler bowed at the doorway. "Miss, Erika here will attend to your every need," he said, motioning toward the maid, who grinned with an enthusiasm that seemed over-eager. "If you require anything else, you may call for me as well. But please, do stay in this room until you've had your audience with the king."

Erika's eyes gleamed. "M-miss, why don't you take a bath to unwind?" She twirled a strand of hair around her finger, inching a bit closer. "I could help wash your hair, o-or scrub your back if you'd like... heh-heh-heh!"

Papitas barely heard her, already half-asleep on the bed, lost in blissful relaxation.

"Well then, Erika, she's in your care." The butler nodded and exited, turning to the knight stationed outside. "You're aware of her importance but let me reiterate: under no circumstances is she to leave this room until her audience. Understood?"

"Of course," the knight replied crisply, standing at attention.

A couple of hours later

"Ow! Erika not so rough…" Papitas said, her voice muffled.

"Ah, I'm so sorry, Miss Papitas!" Erika said, her voice breathy and just a tad too eager. "It's just…your body is so beautiful."

"It's my first time, please be a little gentler…"

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door, and the butler entered with a tray laden with refreshments. "Miss Papitas, Erika, are you—?" the butler dropped mid-sentence, and stopped for a moment, regaining his composure before resuming, "Erika, why are you only wearing a towel?"

"H-huh!? W-well, my uniform got all wet when I helped Miss Papitas bathe," Erika replied looking away a big smile on her face, only a towel covering her curvy figure. In front of her laid Papitas, also covered in just a towel, on a massage table.

"Very well." The butler cleared his throat, snapping back to attention. "Now, Miss Papitas, I'm here to assist you before you meet His Majesty." He gestured, and several maids entered, carrying trays laden with finely embroidered gowns in a variety of vibrant colors.

Papitas sat up, eyeing the dresses with a raised eyebrow. "Oh, no, I'm not wearing a dress."

"Miss Papitas, that attire you were wearing was clearly dirty and battered," the butler said forcing a smile, "it may not be fitting to wear before the king."

"I'm not wearing a dress," Papitas insisted more sternly, "My clothes are… traditional Crimson Magic Clan clothes, wouldn't that be better? I mean, you want me because I'm from the Crimson Magic Clan and all."

The butler hesitated, looking to the collection of dresses in despair. "You have a point… a Crimson Magic attire would indeed be fitting. Why didn't I think of that sooner?" He looked around. "Now, if only we had it washed…"

"Where are my clothes anyway?" Papitas said, looking around the room.

"Oh! Um… here!" A maid sheepishly lifted Papitas' clothes hidden behind some furniture. Erika turned her head away, but a tiny, guilty smile lingered on her face.

After hurriedly getting dressed, Papitas made her way toward the door, but the butler blocked her path, gesturing to a dressing table where two maids stood armed with hairbrushes.

"A moment, Miss Papitas," he insisted, his expression brooking no argument. "We can't allow you to meet the king with such, ah… disheveled appearance," then after a brief pause, "Erika, please get dressed," the butler suddenly ordered to the maid that hadn't taken her eyes off Papitas for an instant.

To the maids, used to work with the fine hair of nobles, working with Papitas poorly kept and wild hair was quite the struggle, made worst of all because the owner of said hair was wholly uncooperative in the whole process. It took several rounds of brushing, sighing, and muttering, Papitas wincing every few seconds, until they finally got it to a state that might—at a stretch—pass as presentable.

The butler gave a polite nod of approval, leading her out of the room and down the corridors of the Royal Residence. Papitas couldn't help but stare as they moved further up passing even grander tapestries, each floor more extravagantly adorned than the last.

Eventually, they stopped in front of an enormous set of double doors, flanked by two towering knights in full armor, gleaming and imposing.

"This is as far as I go," the butler said, his expression serious. "Please do mind your manners before His Majesty."

"Uh, yeah, sure." Papitas' eyebrow quirked up as she stared at the imposing doors.

With a quick glance at the waiting knights, she put her hands on the doors and gave them a shove. They swung open with a groan, far heavier than they looked. The knights exchanged stunned glances as Papitas strolled in, leaving them scrambling to close the doors behind her.

At the far end of the room sat a man who looked more worn-out than regal, his chin propped up on one hand as he studied her approach. He wore no crown, and his relaxed posture made it hard to believe he was the king at all.

Prime Minister Frost hurried over, practically wringing his hands as he whispered, "M-Miss Papitas, it's customary to kneel before His Majesty."

"The Crimson Magic Clan bows to no one," Papitas didn't break eye contact with the king, she stopped a few paces away and pointed at him. "Alright, I'm here. So, what's this about?"

"Your Majesty—!" Frost desperately attempted to lower Papitas' arm.

The king chuckled, lifting a hand to quiet him. "No need, Minister. When you called her wild, it was no exaggeration." He grinned at her, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Frankly, I was expecting a big hat and a staff. From the looks of you, I'd have guessed Martial Artist, not Archwizard."

Papitas blinked. "Huh? That's because—"

"No matter." The king waved her off, rising from the throne, "Miss Papitas, your arrival is nothing short of a miracle. We have much to discuss…"

Part 3

As Lallemana delicately cleaned her face, deliberately slow and with a hint of defiance, the lead maid behind her wrung her hands anxiously. "Milady, please hurry! The Royal Guard said the king's summons is urgent. The King's already waiting in the throne room!"

"Yeah, yeah," Lalemana said, clearly not caring, "He's never hurried for me, I don't see why I should—ack!"

"Stop acting like a spoiled brat, Lulú!" Lady Marcella strongly whacked her daughter in the head, "Don't make the king wait, quickly clean yourself and go!"

"Alright, alright!" she quickly dusted herself off, and left the room, softly touching the spot where her mother hit her, "Ugh, what a bother."

"Cheer up, milady," Daisy said, catching up with her and attempting a comforting smile. "Maybe whatever your father told the king worked! …And maybe we trashed your bedroom for no reason…" Her voice trailed off at Lallemana's doubtful expression.

"Yeah, right," Lalemana scoffed, "It must be related to that royal decree that pinhead tried to show me earlier."

The two ascended through the Royal Residence's upper halls, Lallemana's icy glare enough to keep any passing servants or guards from even looking at her way. As they approached the grand hallway to the throne room, they saw a small balding man nervously pacing back and forward in front of the large double doors.

"Lady Dustiness, finally! What kept you—?" Minister Frost barked, visibly relieved yet annoyed as he hurried toward her.

Without so much as a glance at him, Lalemana strode past, stopping in front of the doors. "Well? Are you opening these doors or are you going to stand here all day?" she demanded with a tone that left no room for discussion.

The towering knights on either side exchanged wide-eyed glances before scrambling to pull the heavy doors open, visibly straining as they created just enough space for her to pass through.

"Lady Arlenfelt," Frost said hastily, stepping in front of Daisy as she attempted to follow. "Only Lady Dustiness is permitted inside. This meeting is of utmost secrecy."

Daisy stopped, looking uncertainly at Lalemana, who gave her a brief nod before slipping through the gap. As the doors shut behind her, she found herself in the throne room. A lone figure leaned against one of the grand pillars nearby, but Lalemana didn't so much as glance in their direction as she made her way to the throne.

"Ah, Lady Dustiness, finally you've arrived!" The king, in an unusually buoyant mood, lifted his arms as though he intended to embrace her. "I have the most wonderful news!"

Lallemana paused, her gaze unwavering as she sharply knelt in respect. "Let me guess," she said dryly, rising just as quickly. "You're promoting me from 'MVP to 'Gilded Prisoner'? Can we drop the act?" She held her wrists together, presenting them as though expecting to be cuffed. "Come on, throw me in a cell. What's stopping you?"

The king's expression faltered; his enthusiasm visibly dampened by her biting words. An awkward silence settled over the room until a voice casually broke through.

"Is this her? What's her deal?" The girl by the pillar, wearing sunglasses and munching on sweets, raised an eyebrow. "Did she chip a nail on the way here or something?" She popped another snack in her mouth, the crunch echoing in the quiet room.

Lalemana's jaw practically hit the floor, her anger dissolving into utter disbelief. "Wha…? Who is this?" she finally managed, staring at the commoner chomping on sweets in the throne room.

"Oh! Right, let me explain," the king stammered, looking momentarily flustered. "Miss Papitas here is the reason for your urgent summon. It seems Lady Eris has finally answered our prayers!"

What kind of name is that!? Lalemana's mind raced, trying to comprehend what "Papitas" was doing here of all places.

"Yeah, yeah, that's me," Papitas said, waving her hand dismissively as she popped another sweet in her mouth.

"I… I don't understand," Lalemana said, her voice edging on desperation. "Who is she? What's going on?"

"Of course!" the king replied, smacking his forehead as if just remembering something. "Miss Papitas, would you kindly remove your sunglasses?"

Lallemana's eyes widened as Papitas slowly pulled off her sunglasses, revealing brilliant red eyes. Her thoughts leaped from one conclusion to the next before finally landing on one undeniable fact: C-Crimson Magic Clan!? She's from the Crimson Magic Clan!

"Name's Papitas," the girl said, extending her hand for a shake with the confidence of someone who had just introduced herself to nobility while talking with her mouth full. "Guess we'll be working together, huh?"

"Uh… gwah… aaah…" Lalemana could barely string a syllable together, her mind still in shock.

"Nice to meet you, uh… Uwa, was it?" Papitas said with a grin, giving Lallemana's limp hand a shake. "Finally, a somewhat normal name around here. You know the king's name is Magnus? I mean, what kind of name is that, right?" She burst into a chuckle, evidently pleased with herself.

The king joined in, chuckling warmly. "Ah, no, no! She's Lady Lalemana Silver-Blade Dustiness, daughter of a dear friend of mine. She's been waiting for this day her entire life—hence the shock."

"Well, anybody'd be stunned in the face of my power! Ohohohohoho!" Papitas let out an odd, over-the-top laugh that jolted Lalemana from her daze.

"B-but then… t-this girl… we can f-finally…" Lalemana talked at a speed making it hard to understand.

"Yes, Lady Dustiness," the king proclaimed, chest puffed with pride. "The prophecy is finally falling into place. We're halfway to the legendary party! Now we just need the blue—"

"S-spirit… S-sapphire… P-pilgrimage…" Lallemana murmured, clenching a fist and shaking it excitedly, though her words were hardly coherent.

"Ah, I see you know of it too!" the king said, nodding in approval. "Just yesterday I met with Archbishop Auberon. Tomorrow, the Axis Pilgrimage will leave to visit the Sapphire Spirit, and he's asked me to provide extra protection. Destiny is unfolding, Lady Dustiness! Everything is aligning at last!"

"I-I'm… g-going…!?" Lalemana wheezed, face turning bright red as she struggled to catch her breath.

"Of course you are, Lady Dustiness! This is what you've trained for your whole life! And with Miss Papitas at your side, I'm sure you'll succeed in recruiting the Sapphire Spirit's aid. She's a highly capable adventurer, after all. Together, you're bound for greatness!" the king said, holding her by the shoulders, his enthusiasm palpable.

Lalemana could only let out a strangled gasp, eyes rolling as she wobbled, her pale face going slack. Then, with all the grace of a toppled statue, she collapsed in the king's arms.

Papitas tilted her head, nonplused as she watched Lalemana faint, her eyes going blank. "Did she just pass out? Yeah, I get it. People get overwhelmed by my sheer strength all the time." She shrugged, returning to her sweets as if fainting nobility were an everyday sight.

"Miss Papitas, please bring some water!" the king called, as the large double doors swung open and Minister Frost came hurrying in—though "hurrying" for him was more of a winded, shuffling jog.

"Y-Your Majesty..." Frost wheezed, dabbing at his brow, "I—I really must insist... It's too risky. Lady Lallemana and Miss Papitas should stay here. Let's send an elite regiment to retrieve the Sapphire Spirit—"

"I'm not staying here," Papitas muttered, popping yet another sweet. "Your king said I'm supposed to save the world, so I'm not wasting my time sitting around this city. There's a Demon Queen out there, and she needs her ass kicked."

"Miss Papitas, we can't allow that, you must—" Frost began, his tone dripping with forced patience.

"Hold on there, shorty," Papitas interrupted, casually shadowboxing as she stepped toward him, causing Frost to flinch and stumble back. "I don't take orders from you, or anyone else for that matter. I'm going to find that spirit, and then I'm gonna whoop the Demon Queen's ass—prophecy or not. How did you listen to what we were saying anyway? Those doors are very heavy—"

"Y-your Majesty—!" Frost turned, appealing to the king.

"I'm not staying either," Lallemana declared, setting down her now-empty glass of water with a flourish. "This is what I've been waiting for my whole life. We're getting the spirit."

Frost glanced desperately at the king, who only shrugged. "It's fate, Minister. We can't afford to delay, not with the Demon Queen's forces advancing in the south. And with the Axis Pilgrimage tomorrow…" the king mused aloud. "It's simply too perfect a timing. I'll speak with General Brocker—we'll arrange for an elite squad to escort these two. We may even need additional reinforcements; Archbishop Auberon's request couldn't be a coincidence either…"

With that, the king strode past Frost, the two girls following close behind. The minister remained frozen in place, his face a mask of suppressed frustration, fists clenched tightly.

"Well!" the king said over his shoulder as he continued down the corridor. "I'll leave you two to get acquainted! You're a party now, after all! Good time to become friends!"

I'm finally in a party again! Papitas thought, barely containing her grin.

I'm finally getting out of this city! thought Lallemana, wearing the same mischievous smile.

For a moment, the two looked more like aspiring villains rather than heroes.

"Actually, hold up!" Papitas suddenly paused. "I want to check out that book you mentioned earlier."

"The Crimson Codex?" The king raised an eyebrow, puzzled. "Surely you must have read it on the Crimson Magic Islands—it must be a foundational text for your people."

"…oh, yeah, totally!" Papitas said with a dismissive wave. "I just need to see if it's… y'know, any different here."

"Ah, splendid idea! Having a Clanswoman examine it herself could yield insights." The king's eyes brightened as he gestured at the heavy double doors. "I'll summon some of our scholars—they'd have plenty of questions for you, no doubt. This way," after the knights opened the heavy double doors of the throne rooms, the king gave quick orders to some aids and then led the way to the library.

As the group moved forward, Lalemana followed with her mind racing, too distracted to hear the soft voice at her side.

"MILADY!" Daisy pinched Lalemana's cheek, finally getting her attention.

"Ow! Daisy, what's your problem?" Lallemana snapped, snapping out of her daze.

"What's yours, milady? I've never seen you like this before! Who's that girl with the king?" Daisy asked, pointing at Papitas as she casually conversed with the king.

Lallemana's eyes sharpened. "Change of plans Daisy, go tell my mom to stop. I'll explain everything later, there's a lot to sort out," she added, already hurrying off after the king and Papitas.

As Papitas and the king walked through the grand corridors like old friends, her laid-back chatter turned heads among guards and servants alike. But the king, for all his rank, just chuckled along, unconcerned. When they finally reached the royal library, he gestured grandly to two waiting scholars.

"These two are our foremost experts on The Crimson Codex," he announced, gesturing to a woman and her young assistant in scholarly robes. The lead scholar adjusted her spectacles and broke into a broad grin.

"It's such an honor!" she gushed, vigorously shaking Papitas' hand. "My name is Jessica Angels—my family has studied the codex for generations!"

"Yes, nobody knows more about the codex than Miss Angels here," the king gave her a pat in the back, "I'm sure she'll be able to answer any questions. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have matters to attend to, I'll be sure you see you off with the pilgrimage tomorrow," and with that the king took his leave, two towering knights following his every move.

Jessica's assistant, carrying an armful of parchment, nodded enthusiastically. Papitas barely had time to nod back before Jessica bombarded her with questions about the Crimson Magic Clan, like an excited fan meeting their hero.

"Uh, could you maybe… let go?" Papitas finally muttered, gently prying her hands free.

"Oh! Sorry!" Jessica stammered, her voice going high with embarrassment. "It's just… I've waited all my life to meet someone from the Crimson Magic Clan in person! They never allow scholars like us to visit, only merchants get approved…" She sighed wistfully. "You have no idea how rare it is to speak to someone from your clan. …it's a shame you're leaving tomorrow."

"Yes, yes, I get it, I'm very special," Papitas puffed up, hands on her hips. "Now, show me the book. And, oh—" she turned pointedly to Lalemana, "I don't think you need to tag along, really."

Lalemana blinked. "Excuse me?"

"I forgive you. I don't just mean to see the book, this whole quest thing, you know?" Papitas drawled, eyeing Lalemana's smudged eyeliner, "I need serious allies for this whole 'save-the-world' thing. You know, ones who can break a sweat without wrecking their makeup."

Jessica looked horrified. "But—b-but the prophecy says—"

"You will be the one assisting me, commoner" Lalemana cut in icily, "and I can assure you, I am more than capable of holding my own."

The room chilled as the two exchanged a hard, silent glare.

"Uh, this way, please!" Jessica squeaked, guiding them to an elevator that led to the codex chamber. Papitas and Lalemana followed in tense silence, the faint hum of the elevator ticking away the seconds of their unspoken rivalry.

"Here we are, Miss Papitas." Jessica gestured to three ancient tomes on a pedestal. "These are the volumes of The Crimson Codex. They cover everything from the legendary party's journey to various historical legends of the time: the silver-haired thief that terrorized nobles, the first Idol group in Axel, the magic ring that… um, never mind that last one. And many more!"

Lalemana ignored her, flipping a tome open to the prophecy's page, "This is the part that matters to us," showing her the page that mentioned the prophecy.

Papitas squinted. "Right. Well, I am from the Crimson Magic Clan, but you don't exactly look like a Crusader to me. A little… frail, maybe."

"Excuse me?" Lalemana's tone was dangerously calm. "The prophecy only says, 'Dustiness noblewoman.' I'm the first one in generations. Whether you approve or not is irrelevant."

"Uh huh, well, I don't really care about this prophecy, but the story of the legendary party is the same from the islands, except for your family being involved. Still though, I'd rather have a truly powerful companion—"

"Are you questioning my abilities, commoner?" Lalemana interrupted, fire in her eyes.

"M-miss Papitas, is there anything interesting in the tomes that you can find, maybe you know something about its author?" Jessica again desperately tried to stop a fight from breaking out.

Papitas skimmed one of the tomes and froze, staring at the title:

[THE GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD

by

Arue]

She forcefully slammed the book shut.

Jessica flinched, "Please be careful, they're quite old! But, um, tell me, do you know anything about… Arue?"

Papias averted her gaze from Jessica and Lalemana as the two curiously started looking at the girl. Oh, I know about Arue, everybody in the Crimson Magic Islands knows about her, she's usually regarded as the mother of Crimson Magic Literature, several of her stories are still popular to this day, Papitas thought, but Arue's history went deeper, Miss Morocho once told us that while she wrote several history books, scholars agree that as cool as they may sound maybe 30% of their contents are actual history, it's better to just regard her as a fiction writer.

Jessica and Lalemana got closer to the girl, who paled as if she'd seen a ghost.

These people based the future of their country on something a girl wrote 500 years ago just to hook readers!

She cleared her throat., "All good, this is just how we close books in the Crimson Magic Islands. Arue is a well-known historian, and everything in these books is 100% factually correct."

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaargh what have I gotten myself into!? She thought, resisting the urge to scream. I even told that Magnus guy I was an Archwizard so he'd give me money and send me on an epic quest, and now I'm supposed to save the world with a pampered noble and some blue ghost?

"Well," Lalemana interjected smoothly, "I'm sure you can see the importance of our partnership now. The prophecy clearly—"

Papitas gave her a sidelong look, unimpressed. "I mean, maybe the blue spirit thing works, but we need more firepower other than me… well I could beat the Demon Queen on my own of course, but… you? You'd probably faint if you chipped a nail."

"I won't take that from some country bumpkin that has never even brushed her hair," Lalemana's anger finally got to her, "I'm fully capable of beating anyone …even you."

"Oh yeah?" Papitas dropped the book, stepping toward her. "You sure talk big for someone who's probably never thrown a punch."

Jessica flailed, desperate to stop them. "Uh, Miss Papitas! Lady Dustiness! M-maybe we can—"

"I'll gladly demonstrate, commoner," Lalemana replied, standing tall, "if you're so eager to humiliate yourself."

"How about here and now then?" Papitas said, her eyes glowing, "I'm ready to kick your ass," the tension in the room so palpable neither Jessica nor Lalemana noticed Papitas standing on the tips of her toes to meet Lalemana at eye level.

Minister Frost entered the room just then. "Now, now," he said, holding up his hands. "Perhaps a spar in the Royal Guard's training grounds would be appropriate. It's useful for allies to understand each other's skills, don't you agree?"

Neither woman looked his way, locked in their own private war.

"I hope you don't mind a little bruise on that pretty face, noble," Papitas said, her eyes narrowing.

"You'll eat your words, commoner," Lalemana said, as she turned to leave, "I'll go for my armor."

"Lead the way, baldy. By the way, how did you hear what we were talking about?" Papitas barked to Frost, her eyes blazing with anticipation.

A short while later, a fully armored Lalemana stormed down the corridor to the royal training room, Daisy in tow.

"Are you sure this is a good idea milady?" Daisy asked, not for the first time, "If she's truly from the Crimson Magic Clan, that means she's an Archwizard—and a powerful one at that. A duel could be…well, risky."

"No one insults me and gets away with it," Lalemana huffed, her armored boots clicking with resolve. "If I'm forced to travel with that commoner, she's going to learn some manners."

They reached the training room just as a loud thud reverberated through the door. Inside, they saw Papitas hitting a heavy sandbag with such intensity that the bag swung erratically. Several royal guards and even Minister Frost stood around, clearly stunned by the petite girl's strength.

"Finally! I was beginning to think you chickened out," Papitas smirked, wiping a bead of sweat off her forehead as she turned toward them.

The training room sprawled before them, a grand space lit by large windows casting dappled sunlight over training dummies in armor, stacks of sandbags, and racks of wooden weapons. Above, balconies lined the walls, with royal guards peering down to watch. Clearly, word had spread of the impromptu match.

"Don't intervene," she muttered to Daisy, selecting a wooden sword from the rack. She pointed it squarely at Papitas. "You! Where's your staff or wand or…whatever?"

Papitas raised a brow, crossing her arms in disinterest. "Don't need any of that to take you down," she said with a shrug. "I'll fight bare-handed. That'll be enough."

"What? An Archwizard without magic?" Lalemana said incredulously.

Minister Frost, standing nearby as the designated referee, interjected, "Actually, Lady Dustiness, it's not uncommon for Archwizards to engage in hand-to-hand combat. Advanced magic requires a bit of preparation, and wielding advanced magic at close range could…well, blow up half the building."

Lalemana glanced at Daisy for confirmation.

She nodded. "Many of my wizard colleagues trained in hand-to-hand combat. In closed spaces, it's safer for everyone."

Lalemana sneered. "It still feels unfair to use a sword against someone bare-handed, even if it's an uneducated commoner," she muttered, casting a side-eyed glance at Papitas.

Papitas, unfazed, stretched her arms nonchalantly. "I know how to use spears," she offered, then grinned. "But really, my fists are more than enough for you. So, come at me, noble."

In the crowd above, guards exchanged eager murmurs. One guard nudged his colleague. "My money's on the little one," he said, eyeing Papitas.

"The foreigner?" his friend scoffed. "She's strong, but that sword's enough to knock her out cold if it lands, she's so small."

"I just want to see her knock that spoiled brat down a peg," another guard muttered, earning chuckles of agreement from his fellows.

Lalemana clenched her jaw, drawing herself into a fighting stance. Minister Frost raised his hand, signaling the start. "Friendly sparring only. Nothing too extreme…though the winner may just be crowned our legendary party leader. Ready? Begin!"

Lalemana lunged forward, the tip of her sword aimed at Papitas' side. But Papitas sidestepped with a flourish, using Lalemana's head for support as she leapt over her. Lalemana staggered, thrown off balance.

"Too slow!" Papitas taunted, throwing a light jab toward Lalemana's face that stopped just short, the force stirring the air. Lalemana flinched but held her ground, her glare intensifying.

She clicked her tongue before going into the offensive again, swinging the wooden sword in a broad arc. Papitas hopped backward, taunting her with a playful salute.

"Aw, just missed me! Was that your best swing?"

Another thrust, and Papitas effortlessly dodged, casually twisting aside. She barely seemed to exert herself, her laughter echoing as she kept taunting: "Almost got me!", "Come on, don't be shy!", "Oops, that one was close—oh, wait, no, it wasn't."

Lalemana's movements grew more frantic, her irritation mounting. Her swings began to lose precision, leaving openings that Papitas danced through with ease. On the balconies above, the guards were trying to stifle their laughter.

"So…those gauntlets," Papitas said, ducking under another wild swing, "what's with the runes?"

Lalemana's response was a furious snarl as she swung again, her sword whooshing past Papitas' ear.

"Feel free to use them! Not like it'll help you," Papitas continued, flashing a grin as she shadowboxed a few mock punches.

Wordlessly, Lalemana lunged herself at Papitas, point of the sword first only for Papitas to effortlessly parry it with the back of her hand, "You know, I should be attacking too!" she said as she tried to punch Lalemana with her other hand, her fist passing right by Lalemana's ear.

Lalemana jumped back to get some space, but Papitas was faster—her fist came in low, aimed at Lalemana's stomach, narrowly missing. Her next kick arced past Lalemana's legs, missing by mere inches.

Undeterred, Papitas continued her assault, each strike barely glancing past her target. Her punches were forceful but poorly coordinated, one narrowly grazing past Lalemana's shoulder, another just barely missing her nose. Lalemana could feel the rush of air from each near-hit, her heart racing as she parried desperately.

In a last-ditch move, Lalemana lunged into the air, her sword raised. But just as she closed in, Papitas swept her leg forward in a powerful kick. Lalemana managed to block it with her sword, Papitas' strike sending her flying to the other end of the training room, the sword shaking out of the power impact. Before Lalemana could gather her thoughts, Papitas was on the offensive again.

What is that girl doing? Daisy thought, her hand hovering on her sword's hilt, Is she actually trying, or just messing with milady on purpose? A confident smile formed on her lips as she watched Lalemana fumble forward, But milady isn't giving her all, this is nothing like how she spars with Captain Duffy.

In contrast, Papitas' thoughts were a world away from calm. Aaaaaargh, stop moving! Why can't I hit her!? I've improved my accuracy a bit, why do I keep missing?

The air snapped as Papitas' fist met Lalemana's wooden sword, sending both of them sliding back. Lalemana leapt forward again, barely giving Papitas a chance to steady herself, as her gauntlet runes flashed. The sword bent mid-swing, landing solidly against Papitas' cheek and sending her skidding back.

Papitas rolled to her feet, rubbing her cheek with a fiery grin. "Now we're talking! Come on!"

A gust kicked up dust around Lalemana as she lunged again, dust swirling toward Papitas' eyes. She threw up an arm, blocking the worst of it, only to catch the impact of Lalemana's sword with her shoulder. The force sent her flying back, crashing into a training dummy.

There was a collective gasp amongst the audience, as Daisy looked at Lalemana proudly, it seems she finally learned what Captain Duffy was after, she thought

"I doubt you'll be able to, but don't get up, commoner," a hint of triumph in her tone, "We're done."

Papitas, lying flat on the floor, started to laugh—a low, defiant chuckle that grew into a full-blown cackle. She kicked up and landed in a crouch, her lips curling with satisfaction. "Now that stung a bit." She rotated her shoulder. "I'm impressed, noble! But you'll need way more than that to bring down someone from Crimson Magic Clan." She waved at the shocked Lalemana with a smug gesture. "Come on, we're not done."

Without a word, Lalemana charged again, bringing her sword down hard. Papitas sidestepped, and the sword whistled through the air, hitting the dummy instead. She thought to have avoided it, but the sword again moved oddly after Lalemana's runes glowed, and the sword flew from Lalemana's hand, the sword propelled by a strong gust of wind, impacting Papitas directly in the center of the chest.

She flew back with a sharp gasp, the air knocked out of her as she crashed into yet another dummy.

Lalemana caught her breath for a while, mana leakage taking a toll on her, "Hit directly below the heart, that should've blown the air off her… that's always the weak point for an Archwizard, completely blocks mana, this is over…" she chuckled, "Easy to hit considering she doesn't have much there."

With a loud groan, Papitas got up once again, holding the wooden sword by the blade, "Bitch, that really hurt," nonetheless a big smile on her face, a small trail of blood dripping from her mouth.

The unarmed Lalemana flinched and staggered back, what the hell!? I'm sure that hit the right spot, it should completely block her mana! How is she still moving?

Papitas held the sword by both ends and easily broke it in half, "Let me get serious too," she cracked her knuckles with an ominous grin.

Daisy tensed, preparing to intervene as Papitas eyes sparking with dangerous glee. Just as she moved to step forward, a firm hand stopped her.

"It'd be a shame to interrupt this show, wouldn't it, Daisy?" Mildred's soft voice cut through the tense moment. She had seemingly appeared out of nowhere, her gaze transfixed on Papitas.

"Miss Harcourt, why are you here!?" Daisy tried to free herself, but Mildred wouldn't budge.

Mildred smiled. "When I heard there was someone from the Crimson Magic Clan here, I had to come see for myself." She cocked her head, her voice dropping to a whisper as her eyes uncharacteristically narrowed at Papitas. "But there's something… unusual about that girl."

"I think she may be above the average Archwizard," Daisy said, "I know they all know hand to hand combat, but she feels closer to a Martial Artist, she's very strong."

"Yes, it's odd," Mildred, finally let Daisy go, wanting to get a better look at Papitas, "Her mana feels tremendous, but… locked up somehow. Like a geyser that's never erupted." Mildred's smile faded as she watched Papitas take a sudden step forward, raising her fist with newfound intensity.

"Time for some payback!" Papitas shouted, rushing Lalemana in a blur. Her eyes blazed with unfiltered glee.

A shiver ran down Lalemana's spine as time seemed to slow down, Papitas' eyes showed true bloodlust. Papitas' punch cut through the air, barely grazing Lalemana's cheek as she moved just in time. Her fist hitting one of the dummies directly in the head, sending the head flying with tremendous force as it impacted one of the walls, causing the entire room to shake, the force of the attack sending both Lalemana and Papitas flying as a large dust cloud appeared through the room.

Minister Frost's eyes practically bulged from their sockets as he took in the scene: the dummy's head embedded deep in the stone wall, a crater of fractured stone radiating outward from the impact point. "T-those things are made of adamantite. They're supposed to withstand cannonballs…!"

As the dust settled, Lalemana staggered to her feet, coughing, her gaze fixed on the demolished dummy with a dawning realization. That could've been me! That girl nearly punched my head clean off!

Meanwhile, Papitas stood frozen, maintaining an outward air of calm, but her mind raced wildly. Waaaaaaah! I almost punched her head off!

A silence filled the room, tense as a drawn bow.

Mildred, standing calmly in front of Daisy, held the worried knight in place with a firm hand on her shoulder. Her attention was glued to Papitas, an intrigued gleam in her eyes.

Finally, Papitas cleared her throat, dusting off her clothes and trying her best to sound casual. "I, uh… I think we can call it a day here," she said, eyeing Lalemana. , "Listen, I'm sorry about what I said, you're strong. No need to hurt yourself more."

But her attempt at truce fell flat. Lalemana was too busy scanning the room, noting the stares of the royal guards—the same guards who'd watched her every move since she could remember, the people that isolated her. She wouldn't let some outsider humiliate her in front of them. No matter how rattled she felt, she wasn't backing down. She clenched her fists, looking straight at Papitas, the tremor in her legs giving away her exhaustion even as she forced herself to stand tall.

Minister Frost stepped forward, nervous but trying to sound authoritative. "Yes, yes, I think it would be best if—"

"Are you satisfied, Lady Dustiness?" Mildred's voice cut through the room, uncharacteristically loud, turning every head. Papitas shot her a quick look of surprise. "Are you satisfied with this result?"

"Miss Mildred—!" Daisy started, but a raised hand from the archwizard silenced her.

Lalemana's jaw tightened. "No," she said firmly, locking eyes with Papitas.

Without missing a beat, Mildred flicked her fingers, and a wooden sword from the rack flew into Lalemana's hand. The runes on her gauntlet glowed faintly, a small fireball sparking to life at the tip of the sword. Papitas sighed, adopting a fighting stance once more as Lalemana, undeterred, surged forward.

As the fight progressed, nearly everyone in the Royal Residence—guards, maids, even some of the kitchen workers—gathered to witness the spectacle. The once-orderly hallways were deserted as the curious flooded into the training room, their collective cheers and gasps filling the air with tension. They shouted back and forth, egging both girls on.

The floor was cracked, and only a handful of training dummies remained standing; the rest lay scattered across the walls and even ceiling, casualties of the intense brawl.

"This won't go for much longer, look at the foreigner," a royal guard said to a colleague, pointing at Papitas with the little wiggle room in the crowded space, "Her arms have gone limp from all the bruises, and I don't think she can't open her right eye."

"The MVP may not be hurt, but she's exhausted," another one pointed at Lalemana, "Look at her, she's drenched in sweat, is very pale, and has trouble breathing."

A faint glow emanated from Lalemana's gauntlet as her wooden sword crackled with an aura of electricity, smoke curling from the blade. She was at her limit, but she steadied herself, preparing for one final strike.

In a flash, Lalemana leapt forward, bringing the sword down hard. Papitas caught it with both hands, and a bright light exploded on impact. Papitas gritted her teeth, her palms burning, but she held on.

"RAAAAAAAAH!" Papitas roared, pulling the sword—and Lalemana—down with her, slamming her shoulder into Lalemana's chest with bone-jarring force. Lalemana couldn't even cry out; the impact drove the air from her lungs, sending her hurtling backward. She crashed into a training dummy, which splintered beneath her, before she slumped to the ground, unmoving.

"Milady!" Daisy broke free from Mildred's grip, rushing to Lalemana's side.

A collective awe shook the room as Papitas remained standing.

Minister Frost's voice broke the tension, tentative and awestruck. "What… what a display. Well then, it's clear that we have a winner, and it's Miss Pa—"

Before he could finish, Papitas swayed, then dropped backward with a heavy thud, unconscious, her sparring gloves charred and ruined, burns marking her hands.

Mildred drifted forward, kneeling beside her, gently brushing the bruised girl's cheek with a fond smile. This girl is no ordinary Archwizard all right, she chuckled slightly, as the crowd of guards began shouting.

"It's a tie, isn't it?" one guard shouted.

"No way! The foreigner only landed one attack; Lady Dustiness wins on points!" another argued.

"Look at the damage! This is no points match—no one won that fight!" a third guard laughed, shaking his head.

"Would anyone please call a couple of priests," Mildred's gentle yet commanding voice brought the room back under control, "We have two rather battered young ladies here in need of care."

Part 4

"Ugh…" Papitas groaned as her eyes fluttered open to an unfamiliar ceiling, her head pounding. She instinctively reached out to feel the soft sheets around her before wincing at the sharp, burning pain in her hands.

"Please don't move, miss!" a concerned voice called out.

She blinked groggily and sat up despite the protest, her gaze landing on a small gathering of people at the foot of the bed: a flustered maid, a nervous scholar, a woman floating eerily, and someone who looked like a priestess in full attire.

"Lie back down," the priestess said gently, moving closer. "Your burns haven't fully healed. Let my magic finish its work."

"I'm fine. Really," Papitas grumbled, rubbing her temples. Her hands stung even more when she tried to move them. "What happened, I won right?"

The floating woman let out a soft chuckle. "Calling it a tie seems more accurate. Still, it was quite the spectacle, Miss Papitas."

Papitas squinted at her, the splitting headache making it hard to focus. "Who… wait… what the hell am I wearing?!" She suddenly yanked the sheets up to her chin, realizing the nightgown she had on was far too revealing for comfort.

"Your clothes were a mess after the fight," the maid said matter-of-factly, raising her hand as though in apology. "I had to… thoroughly clean your battered body, so they needed to come off!"

"You did not need to do that," the scholar interjected sharply.

"Nonsense," the maid replied with a serene smile, though her gaze remained fixed on Papitas. "I was ordered to look after Miss Papitas' every need. In fact, I've failed her by not warming her beautiful body myself—"

"Moving on!" the priestess interrupted loudly, her tone strained as everyone else in the room made a concerted effort to ignore the maid, "Miss, please try not to overexert yourself. You're healing faster than expected, but you still need to rest." She leaned in and gently checked Papitas' hands, "I'll return shortly to finish the healing process."

With a polite bow, the priestess exited the room, leaving Papitas to stretch her aching limbs. "Ugh, I feel like I got run over. Are we eating soon? I'm starving after that fight." She paused, rubbing her stomach. "Wait—what about the noble? How's she doing?"

"She's likely better off than you," the floating woman said with a teasing smile, twirling a lock of her hair. "You only landed one solid hit, after all. Lady Dustiness is tougher than she looks. But don't worry—you'll get to see her soon. You've been invited to dinner with her family."

"What?!" Papitas sat bolt upright, her headache forgotten for a moment. "Like hell I'm eating with her! I don't want to see her for another second!"

"But the prophecy!" the scholar exclaimed, clutching her notebook as if it were sacred scripture. "You two are destined to lead a party to defeat the Demon Queen! You must become friends!"

"Hmph!" Papitas puffed out her chest and looked away, crossing her arms. "I only agreed to be in a party with her, not to be her friend. If she becomes a pain, I'll just kick her out!" Papitas then went for a change of clothes, "I'll just go out and eat, where's the nearest adventurer's guild, or some good restaurant? I finally have money for a decent meal too…"

The floating woman let out another chuckle, this time more amused. "Too late. I've already accepted the invitation on your behalf. Consider this a golden opportunity to build bridges, as Miss Angels suggested."

"What!? Wait, who are you? Don't' ignore the question!" Papitas exclaimed.

"Oh, how rude of me." The floating woman hovered closer; her tone laced with playful mockery. "I'm Mildred Harcourt, Archwizard and head of the Royal Magic Research Institute."

Papitas froze as Mildred leaned in, cupping her cheeks with a mischievous grin. Their eyes locked, and Papitas immediately recognized the look—the piercing, knowing glare that practically screamed: I know what you are, so play along.

"As a fellow Archwizard," Mildred said softly, her grip firm as Papitas tried to turn away, "We should have plenty to discuss, how about you tell me about life on the Crimson Magic Islands? I'm most curious about your upbringing."

"Uh…" Papitas broke into a sweat, her mind racing.

"Me too!" the scholar, suddenly popped into view, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Please, Miss Papitas! I'd love to hear all about your homeland before you join Lady Dustiness!"

"Yes, Miss Papitas," Mildred said with finality, her smirk deepening. "Let's talk."

"Mom! What is this!? Why'd you invite that uneducated commoner!?" Lalemana demanded of her mother, a few bruises on her face.

"Milady, you haven't fully healed! Please lie down and rest!" Daisy pleaded, trying to calm her.

"That girl is simply a tool to get me out of this city! I don't need to, or want to, have the displeasure of seeing her more than absolutely necessary! Mom, are you even listening to me!? Mom! Moooom! Ack!" Lalemana yelped as her mother thwacked her on the head.

"Why do you have to be such a pain, Lulú!?" Lady Marcella barked, whacking her daughter after every word for emphasis. "A member of the Crimson Magic Clan finally shows up to fulfill the prophecy, you're finally able to leave this city to meet the spirit, and what do you do? Pick a fight the moment you meet her!" Whack. Whack. "Are you the daughter of a noble family or some brawler off the streets!? Because I don't remember raising such an idiot daughter!"

Lalemana curled up into a ball, hands shielding her head as tears welled up in her eyes. "Waaaaaah! Stop it, Mom, that huuuurts!"

"Ma'am, please stop!" Daisy protested, throwing herself between them. "You're hurting her more than she was hurt in the fight!"

Lady Marcella let out an exasperated sigh, crossing her arms. "We're having a wonderful dinner with your new party member as a farewell before you leave tomorrow, and that's final!" She turned her heel, ready to leave, "Now go get ready. I'll summon, uh, Miss… Potato Chips or whatever her name is shortly."

"It's Miss Papitas," Daisy corrected hesitantly, glancing at Lalemana, who was mumbling incoherently while limping away.

"Mom—!" Lalemana turned back to argue but froze at her mother's steely glare, retreating without another word.

A while later.

A pouting Lalemana sat at the grand dining table in the Dustiness wing, her hair impeccably styled, a lit cigarette in her mouth. Daisy stood behind her, subtly watching her fidget with a scowl that deepened with every passing minute. The aromas of fine cuisine filled the air, mixing with tobacco, the only thing stopping Lalemana from storming off in protest.

Meanwhile, at the wing's entrance, Lady Marcella paced, flanked by a line of maids. She paused at the sound of a knock and rushed to open the door, her face lighting up as she greeted the guests.

"Ah, Miss Harcourt! It's been far too long!" Lady Marcella exclaimed, pulling Mildred into a warm hug. "You look as ethereal as ever. Won't you stay for dinner?"

Mildred smiled faintly. "I'd love to, but alas, I've got pressing matters. I just came to deliver your… esteemed guest." She gestured to Papitas, who stood awkwardly behind her, pouting and avoiding eye contact.

"My name's Papitas," the girl muttered after a nudge from Mildred. "Uh… sorry for beating your daughter, I guess." She gave an awkward bow, her sunglasses slipping down her nose slightly.

"She's spirited, but a good girl," Mildred said with a chuckle. "I think the two will… sort themselves out. Eventually."

"Oh, we'll see about that," Lady Marcella said, her gaze sharp as ever as she gestured Papitas inside. "I hope you're hungry, dear. Dinner's just about ready."

Papitas hesitated, sniffing the air as the aroma hit her. Her stomach growled audibly, her attempt to conceal her hunger was utterly unconvincing.

Lady Marcella smiled knowingly. "Let's not keep you waiting, then."

Papitas shuffled into the dining hall, freezing the moment her eyes locked with Lalemana's. The tension in the air was thick enough to cut with a knife. Lalemana glared daggers at Papitas, who returned her icy stare with her own brand of quiet defiance. Daisy, sensing a storm brewing, instinctively placed her hand on the hilt of her sword.

"Now, now," Lady Marcella interjected, clapping her hands lightly as she placed a reassuring hand on Papitas' shoulder and cast a pointed glance at Lalemana. "We're going to have a civilized dinner."

With a snap of her fingers, a procession of maids entered, each bearing trays laden with steaming dishes. Papitas' glare evaporated, her focus shifting to the food as her mouth watered.

As the food was set down, Papitas immediately dug in, shoveling bites into her mouth with reckless abandon.

"So rude," Lalemana hissed, arms crossed. "Couldn't even wait for the rest of us to be served."

"She's hungry, Lulú," Lady Marcella said, cutting her food gracefully. "I seem to recall you being just like that after training sessions."

Lalemana blushed furiously. "That's completely different!"

"You have sauce on your chin, dear."

"Wha—!?" Lalemana swiped at her chin, realizing too late she'd been tricked. Daisy barely stifled a laugh.

Papitas paused, mid-bite. "Thank you for this food! It's really good! Like, really REALLY good!" she mumbled through a full mouth, tears streaming down her cheeks, "I thought I'd never eat this well again!"

Quietly eating, Daisy noticed a mischievous glint in Lady Marcella's eyes, something that deeply concerned her given the few times she'd seen that similar look.

Lady Marcella smiled smugly. "Good, then this dinner's off to a fine start. Now, let's all chat and get to know each other."

Lalemana groaned and sank into her chair. "Mom, please, not that."

Papitas awkwardly cleared her throat and half-stood. "Uh, thank you for the meal, ma'am, but I think I'll just—"

"Miss Papitas." Lady Marcella's voice cut through the room, sharp and commanding. "Since I'm not your mother, I can't order you like I do with Lulú." Papitas began to relax, only for Lady Marcella to add, "But because your mother isn't here, I'll take that responsibility. Now sit down!

"You two are not leaving this table until you're on speaking terms," Lady Marcella declared. She snapped her fingers, and a maid entered, carrying an oversized dice. Its faces gleamed, each engraved with a conversational topic, "This is the Magic Dice of Harmony. It decides topics of conversation. You roll, share something relevant, and—voilà!—friendship blossoms," she said with flair.

Both girls groaned. Papitas rested her chin in her hand, while Lalemana covered her face with both hands. Clearly, Lady Marcella's strategy was already working—if only to unite them in mutual misery.

The maid rolled the dice. The glowing face read: Why did you pick your class?

"Great question!" Lady Marcella said brightly.

"I didn't have a choice in the matter," Lalemana said looking away, annoyed.

"…That's a personal matter, I won't say more than that," said Papitas, tightly clenching her jaws.

Lady Marcella sighed, clearly disappointed in the weak start. "Alright, moving on." She rolled the dice again. The face lit up: Describe your most embarrassing moment.

Lalemana visibly froze, her cheeks reddening. "Mom, no. Pick another topic."

Lady Marcella smirked. "Come now, Lulú, this is a classic. Everyone goes through embarrassing moments—it's character-building!"

Papitas leaned back, grinning. "Oh, this I have to hear."

"Fine!" Lalemana snapped, glaring at both her mother and Papitas. "I tripped at a ball once, okay? The floor was slippery, and I lost my balance. End of story."

"...And?" Lady Marcella prompted, her expression delightfully innocent.

"And I fell into the punch bowl," Lalemana muttered, barely audible.

The room went silent for a moment before Papitas burst out laughing. "You fell into the punch? Oh man, that's too good. Please tell me you splashed everyone!"

"I was ten years old!" Lalemana shouted, slamming her fists on the table, "And people still remind me of it every time I'm forced to go to one of those stupid events!"

Papitas was wiping tears of laughter from her eyes. "I can't believe you just admitted that. That's amazing."

"Let's just move on," Lalemana growled, arms crossed, as Daisy stifled her giggles behind a napkin.

Throwing the dice again, it said: What's your favorite reading material?

"That's an interesting topic," Lady Marcella said, leaning forward with a glint of curiosity. "Tell me, Miss Papitas, does Wata still write?"

"Huh?" Papitas was caught off guard, "Wata? You've heard of him? His books are popular here?"

"They aren't," Lady Marcella replied, a sly smile creeping onto her face. "My father was a merchant who traded with the Crimson Magic Islands. He took me along on a few trips to a big city called Fanesuka, I believe. I picked up a few of Wata's books there as a little girl. You're not the first Crimson Magic Clanswoman I've met either. Honestly, seeing you got me nostalgic. You look a lot like my childhood friend from those days."

"What?!" Lalemana interjected, equally caught off guard. "Mom, why have you never mentioned this before?"

Lady Marcella waved a hand dismissively. "Oh, it was a long time ago, Lulú. I must've been ten the last time I visited. I don't even remember my friend's name." Her tone turned wistful for a moment before she clapped her hands lightly. "Anyway, let's not lose focus. Miss Papitas, as an Archwizard, I imagine you read extensively."

Papitas flinched slightly, something that didn't went by unnoticed by Lalemana, "Oh! …well, I haven't read much since I came here, but I don't think books are all that different. I guess I like history and fantasy books."

Lalemana snorted. "Fantasy? How fitting. Only children read those."

Papitas shot her a glare. "Oh yeah? And what do you read, Miss I'm-So-Mature?"

"Books on strategy and combat," Lalemana said with a smug smirk, puffing out her chest. "I train too much to waste time on silly stories."

Lady Marcella and Daisy exchanged knowing looks at Lalemana failing to mention her huge collection of sci-fi books, but noticing this was another bust, Lady Marcella picked the dice again, continuing the game, this time: Share your greatest fear, appeared.

Papitas immediately stiffened. "The Crimson Magic Clan isn't afraid of anything."

Lalemana snorted. "Oh please. Everyone's afraid of something."

Papitas glared at her. "Not me. I—" Her voice faltered under Lady Marcella's calm but knowing gaze. "...tomatoes," she mumbled.

"What was that?" Lalemana asked, leaning closer with mock curiosity. "Did you say tomatoes?"

"Yes, okay?! Tomatoes freak me out!" Papitas admitted, throwing up her hands. "It's part of my tragic back story! When I was little, I unknowingly wandered into a tomato field, and well you know how those things use acid to defend themselves…"

Lalemana smirked. "Hold on then, do you have like scars or something?"

"No, thankfully they were small tomatoes" Papitas averted her gaze, her cheeks burning. "They only melted my clothes …I had to walk back home naked."

After a big pause, giving Lalemana time to rest after nearly laughing herself unconscious, Lady Marcella tossed the dice yet again, this time landing on: Who do you idolize?

"This one sounds intriguing," Lady Marcella remarked, leaning forward with genuine interest. "I've never heard much about the heroes of the Crimson Magic Clan. Surely there must be many legendary Archwizards, right?"

Papitas perked up slightly, puffing out her chest. "Oh, plenty!" She began counting on her fingers as she recited, her tone brimming with pride. "There's Piyoko, who led the clan to settle by an active volcano—no better spot to train in fire magic! Then Wanabana, who was the clan chief during the war with the Suzuki Empire. Oh, and…"

Lalemana, struggling to contain herself, stifled a laugh after every name.

"What?" Papitas snapped, her face turning as red as her eyes.

"Nothing, nothing!" Lalemana said, waving her hand dismissively, though her smirk said otherwise.

Papitas huffed and continued, "Many girls in my class really admired a woman simply known as The Loner. She was chief during some big events. Teenagers think she's super cool because of the whole 'mysterious, nobody-knows-anything-about-her' angle. Supposedly, she didn't have any friends or talked to anyone—total enigma."

"Fascinating," Lady Marcella mused. "And who's your personal favorite, Miss Papitas?"

Papitas grinned, her pride returning. "Oh, that's easy. My idol is Blue Three!"

"Blue Three?" Lalemana repeated, raising an eyebrow. "What kind of name is that? Sounds like a bad code name."

"It is a code name!" Papitas snapped back, undeterred. "He's a famous martial artist. He's strong, fast, and always one step ahead of the bad guys. The coolest part? His name implies there's a Blue One and Blue Two out there somewhere—but they've never been found. Total mystery! Isn't that awesome?"

The evening slip by unnoticed. The dice rolled again, glowing faintly before landing on: What's your favorite type of weather?

Papitas jumped to her feet, striking a dramatic pose as if she were announcing an epic battle. "Thunderstorms! They're the perfect backdrop for an epic battle! The rumble of the thunder, the crack of lightning—it's like the world itself is cheering you on!"

Lalemana raised a hand, unimpressed. "It's just wet and inconvenient."

"You have no imagination," Papitas declared, jabbing a finger in her direction. "Thunderstorms are art! They're nature's way of hyping you up!"

And rolled again, eventually landing on: What do you look for in a significant other?

An awkward silence filled the room.

Papitas glanced away, rubbing the back of her neck. "Uhh… pass?"

Lalemana looked equally uncomfortable, pretending to be very interested in the pattern of her chair's upholstery. "No comment."

Topic after topic failed miserably. Lady Marcella stifled a yawn as exhaustion crept up on her. The girls sat with their arms crossed, refusing to even look at each other. It was as if fate itself had decided they were destined to clash forever.

With a resigned wave, Lady Marcella signaled the maid again. The glowing dice tumbled onto the final, untouched face: What's your favorite food?

"Alright, last chance," she said, yawning mid-sentence. "Please, for my sanity, find something in common. Miss Papitas, tell me, how's the food in the Crimson Magic Islands?"

Papitas perked up. "Oh, it's pretty different from here. From where I'm from there's lots of seafood—fish, shrimp, crab, you name it." Her expression darkened slightly. "Lately, though, I've mostly been eating fried giant frog. Good protein, but the novelty wears off after, oh, eating it for fifty days straight."

Lalemana paled. "Seafood? Absolutely not! Just the smell of fish makes me sick."

Papitas raised an eyebrow. "What? That's ridiculous. How do you survive without seafood?"

"As if, I survive perfectly fine on actual food," Lalemana snapped, her tone dripping with disdain. "This conversation is over. See, Mom? I told you this was a waste of time. This commoner and I have nothing in common!"

Lady Marcella pinched the bridge of her nose. "At least try, Lulú."

"Hmph!" Lalemana crossed her arms. "Fine! If you must know, my favorite food is... ramen!"

She barked the word like a challenge, as though daring anyone to make fun of her choice.

The room froze for a second before Papitas suddenly leaped to her feet, her eyes wide as saucers. "Ramen? Did you just say ramen?!"

Her outburst startled everyone, even Lady Marcella.

"There's ramen here?!" Papitas exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over. "I looked everywhere in Axel for a ramen restaurant, but nobody in the entire city even knew what it was!"

"You like ramen, Miss Papitas?" Lady Marcella asked, a flicker of hope returning to her weary expression.

"Like it? It's my favorite food!" Papitas declared, practically glowing. "I used to eat it every single day back home! I almost gave up on finding any, figured this country didn't have it! But now..." She turned to Lalemana, grabbing her hands with a fervor that made the latter recoil. "You know where it is, right? Right?! Where's the ramen? I need it. Right now!"

Lalemana froze, overwhelmed by the intensity of Papitas' enthusiasm. "Uh, well, there's this place in the city..."

"Yes!" Papitas shouted, raising her fists in triumph. "Finally, my beloved ramen is within reach!"

"Well, well!" Lady Marcella said with a triumphant clap. "It seems we've found common ground at last! It's a shame it's so late," she added, glancing at the clock on the wall. "Lulú, take Miss Papitas to that restaurant tomorrow morning. You'll have time before the pilgrimage leaves, and it'll be a good opportunity to... bond."

"What?! But, Mom—!" Lalemana tried to protest, her voice rising in panic.

"No buts," Lady Marcella cut her off, her exhaustion beginning to show in her curt tone. "Miss Papitas, you'll finally get your ramen. Now off to bed—you all got a big day tomorrow. Daisy, take Miss Papitas to her bedroom, I'll stay with Lulú, we have to deal with her… sleeping arrangements."

Papitas bowed dramatically. "Lady Marcella, you are a saint among saints! A hero! You've saved a poor, ramen-less soul and given her a reason to live!" She straightened up, then added with a cheeky grin, "Seriously, though, I owe you one. You're the best!"

"I know, dear, I know" Lady Marcella said with a slight sigh.

Lalemana groaned as Papitas skipped away, chanting, "Ramen, ramen, la-la-la!" Daisy trailed behind her.

Daisy and Papitas strolled through the quiet halls of the Royal Residence, their footsteps echoing faintly in the stillness. Most of the staff had retired for the evening, leaving an almost eerie calm.

"So, uh, are you like her cousin or what?" Papitas blurted out suddenly, breaking the silence.

Daisy blinked, startled by the abrupt question. "No, no, Lady Lalemana and I aren't related," she replied, her tone crisp and professional despite the exhaustion etched on her face. "I'm her escort. My duty is to watch over her at all times."

Papitas squinted, as if trying to read Daisy's soul. "Hmm?" She stopped walking, crossing her arms. "So, you're a real knight, then? Like, actually strong?"

Daisy hesitated, unsure how to answer. "Well, I suppose—"

Before she could finish, Papitas' fist shot out toward her face.

Daisy yelped and jumped back, narrowly avoiding the blow.

Papitas grinned, her enthusiasm boundless. "Just checking! Nice reflexes. So, you'll be coming along with us, huh?" She gave Daisy an exaggerated thumbs-up. "Good to know someone capable is tagging along. I'll be counting on you!"

She spun on her heel and continued down the hall, leaving Daisy rooted in place, clutching her chest as she tried to steady her breathing, trailing after Papitas, who had already reached the door to her guest room.

An armored knight stood silently at attention outside. Papitas gave the knight a cheerful wave before disappearing inside, the door closing behind her.

Daisy lingered in front of the door, staring at it as muffled voices carried through the wood.

"Miss Papitas, it's so late! You must rest that beautiful body of yours. Allow me to assist you in undressing and slipping into a nightgown!"

"Huh? No, no, Erika, I can handle it myself—wait, what are you doing? Don't touch me there!"

Daisy's eyes widened as the sounds of a mild scuffle grew louder. She took a deliberate step back.

"Sometimes I think I don't get paid enough for this," she muttered, turning on her heel and walking away before things escalated further.

Later that night.

Papitas laid on her comfy bed, unable to sleep. After sending Erika away with a half-hearted goodnight, she feigned sleep just to be left alone. Too much happened. Just yesterday, she was a failed adventurer curled up in the stables after eating a vegetable soup without any vegetables. And now? She was a "chosen one," destined to save the world and sleeping in a bed that probably cost more than all the rewards she'd gained in the past month.

Papitas groaned, rolling out of bed. She wandered to one of the massive windows that stretched from the floor to the towering ceiling. Cracking it open, she slipped through and leaped up to the roof with ease.

Sitting cross on the cool tiles, she gazed at the sprawling city. Most homes were dark, their occupants fast asleep, but the streetlights stretched endlessly, creating rivers of golden light that disappeared into the horizon. Papitas squinted toward what she assumed was east. "Two months since I left…" she murmured, her fingers absentmindedly tracing constellations in the sky. "I hope Furita and the others are doing okay."

Lying back, she held her hand up, framing the moon between her fingers like a coin. The moment of peace was short-lived, though. The sound of a door closing snapped her attention to the right.

Curious, Papitas sat up and peered toward the source. From her vantage point, she spotted a walled garden taking up a large portion of the second floor. In its center, under a small rain-shielding pavilion, stood a table with a tea set and an open book. Before she could make sense of the scene, the door to the garden burst open with a loud bang.

A blonde-haired woman stormed out, sword in hand, her voice cutting through the still night. "Who's out there? This area is strictly off-limits!"

Papitas barely managed to duck, pressing herself flat against the roof. Her eyes flicked to the glowing sword in the woman's grip. Its radiant blade illuminated her features just enough for Papitas to catch streams of blue in her hair.

"Show yourself!" the woman barked.

Papitas scrambled toward the roof's edge, her still-healing hands stinging with every movement. As the woman's footsteps grew louder, Papitas made a split-second decision. With no better options, she let go and dropped two floors below.

She landed on a slanted roof above a back entryway, wincing as her feet hit the tiles. Down below, royal staff were bustling about, restocking the residence with crates of food and other supplies. Peering over the edge, Papitas frowned. Great. Now what?

The woman's voice above got closer. Papitas needed to act fast. Spotting a balcony above, she leaped again, barely landing with a muffled thud. From there, she slipped through a slightly ajar door, finding herself on the dark and quiet second floor of the Royal Residence.

She caught her breath, leaning against the wall. "Okay," she whispered to herself, "now how do I get back to my room without getting caught?"

She wandered through the winding hallways, her memory hazy about which turns she had taken earlier. Eventually, she found herself back in the familiar Dustiness wing.

"I came from here, but where—?" she muttered, only to freeze when the sound of a door creaking open reached her ears.

Quickly ducking behind a pillar, Papitas watched as Lalemana, clad in a flowing nightgown and carrying a flickering candle, stepped into the hall. Her movements were deliberate, her expression serious. Intrigued—and hoping Lalemana might unknowingly lead her back to her room—Papitas tailed her.

Lalemana walked with purpose through the second floor, eventually stopping before a grand set of double doors adorned with a crest. She stood still for a moment, staring at the doors before sinking to the floor.

From her hiding spot, Papitas could hear her voice, low and trembling.

"I'm finally leaving tomorrow," Lalemana said, her words wavering between laughter and tears. "Can you believe it? A completely uneducated commoner from the Crimson Magic Clan appeared… but she'll have to do."

Papitas bristled, ready to storm out and give her a piece of her mind. But before she could, Lalemana's voice cracked.

"I'll leave with her and get the spirit," she continued, her tone softening as she buried her face in her hands. "The spirit will heal you, and everything will go back to normal… we'll go back to normal…"

Papitas hesitated. Her initial anger ebbed as she watched Lalemana crumble into quiet sobs. Without a word, she turned and walked away.

She didn't know how, but she eventually found her way back to her room. Crawling into bed, she stared at the ceiling again.

"Tomorrow's gonna be another long day," she muttered.

Part 5

"Come on, hurry!" Papitas tugged at Lalemana's hand like an overeager child dragging their parent. The three of them—Papitas, Lalemana, and a perpetually exasperated Daisy—navigated one of Arcanletia's bustling avenues, their destination set on a small ramen restaurant. Papitas had banged on the door of the Dustiness wing early in the morning, eager to eat her beloved food.

"Why did you make me wait so long anyway?" Papitas huffed, noticing Lalemana deliberately lagging behind.

Lalemana sighed dramatically, flipping open a hand mirror to check her hair, "I had to get ready. Look," She displayed her freshly painted nails like a prized trophy.

"Ugh," Papitas groaned, "Why'd you waste time making yourself up? We're going adventuring; won't it take a week to get to the spirit, what's the point?"

"Looking good is never a waste," Lalemana closed the hand mirror, signaling to her right, "That way, we're almost there. Though I doubt it'll be open, that guy never opens so early."

"I'm sure it will, milady," Daisy interjected, "Your mother sent to notify the owner."

Arriving at a dead-end street, Papitas' eyes lit up as she read the sign. "It's real! The restaurant is reaaaaaaaaaaaal!" She bolted ahead, nearly tripping on the step as she burst through the door.

"Hiya, Miss Dustiness, this another friend of yours?" the restaurant owner greeted the more collected Lalemana and Daisy.

"No," replied Lalemana coolly, "But, sadly, she is with me, hit us up with a couple of bowls," she sat down as Papitas did the same next to her. Daisy would be skipping the ramen this time, having had a proper breakfast.

"Aww, you don't have anything with duxion!" Papitas said after eyeing the menu, "Mmh, this one looks good, extra spicy—"

Lalemana smirked, settling into her seat. "Extra spicy? Bold words for someone who looks like they've never handled real spice."

"Excuse me?" replied an incredulous Papitas, "I won't take that from some foreigner, I've eaten spicy food since I was little, this is nothing for me. I just picked it because I liked he ingredients."

"You're still little, and for the last time, you're the foreigner here, commoner. Regardless, I'll teach you the proper way to eat ramen," Lalemana signaled to the restaurant owner, "Give me this one," she pointed at one of the spiciest dishes on the menu.

"Oh, you're on!" Papitas said, "Give me one of those too!"

"Please don't overdo it," Daisy felt her brow, "Remember, we've got less than two hours before we leave."

The owner returned, balancing two steaming bowls of ramen. He placed two particularly vibrant red bowls in front of the girls. "Here ya go, the hottest we've got. Don't blame me if your mouths never work right again."

"This is nothing, barely any kick," Papitas said after slurping up a mouthful of noodles, tears immediately pooling in her eyes.

"Might as well be warm water," Lalemana added, though her trembling hand betrayed her words.

The competition escalated. Papitas reached for a bottle of hot sauce, shaking it over her bowl, only for the lid to pop off and dump half the bottle into her ramen. She froze as Lalemana burst out laughing.

"You're going to eat that, right?" Lalemana teased. "No way a Crimson Magic clanswoman would back down."

"O-of course not!" Papitas declared, mixing the sauce with a flourish before stuffing a bite into her mouth. Her face went beet red as she fought the urge to cry. "T-tastes great!"

"Let me show you how it's done," Lalemana said, taking the remaining hot sauce and pouring it l over her bowl. "Weaklings couldn't handle this." But her smug confidence faltered as Papitas dumped the entire bottle's contents into her bowl.

"Go ahead, you're not scared, right?" Papitas now teased her.

"Milady, I don't think—," Daisy tried to intervene.

"Don't," Lalemana stopped Daisy, as she and Papitas glared at each other like duelists in a standoff, slurping down mouthfuls of the impossibly spicy food. Sweat poured down their faces, their lips burning as if they'd kissed a volcano.

Papitas leaned forward with an annoyed expression. "Hey, boss! Another one over here! Double the… uh, that spicy stuff!" she called out, snapping her fingers. "You know, the one that makes your nose burn."

The restaurant owner looked visibly worried, wiping his hands on his apron. "Miss, I think you two've had plenty. I mean, look at ya—sweatin' like ya ran a marathon! Maybe some water instead, eh?"

"Triple it on mine," Lalemana chimed in coolly, adjusting her posture as though she weren't just as red-faced and teary-eyed. "We'll see who's really sweating, shall we?"

Daisy sighed from the corner. "This will end poorly…"

The next round arrived. The bowls practically glowed with an ominous red hue, the steam alone making the air around them thick and hard to breathe.

Papitas sniffed dramatically, her eyes watering from the sheer scent of the food. "Pfft, smells like home," she said, though her voice cracked halfway through. "Watch closely, noble, you might learn a thing or two." She leaned in, taking an enormous mouthful.

Lalemana smirked—though her lips trembled slightly. "Child's play. You think this is spicy? For me, this is breakfast." Her words were accompanied by a delicate dab at her face with a napkin, though it did little to hide the beads of sweat forming on her brow.

Papitas chewed furiously, her face flushing a vivid crimson. "Haaa… ha! See? Easy. Barely… barely even felt it," she gasped, her words stumbling as her mouth betrayed her.

"Oh? Then you won't mind a little twist," Lalemana said with a sharp smile. She reached into the back of the shop and retrieved a vial of bright orange liquid. "Red neroid extract. Was used to torture prisoners long ago."

The restaurant owner froze. "Now, hold on—no one in their right mind uses that stuff. One drop's enough to knock out a grown man!"

"Perfect," Papitas declared, snatching the bottle and pouring a generous amount into both bowls. She stirred them in with dramatic flair, the broth sizzling ominously.

"Milady…" Daisy began, looking alarmed.

With synchronized determination, the two dug into their molten red bowls. The moment the noodles hit their tongues; both froze. Their eyes widened. Sweat poured down their faces like rivers. Papitas twitched slightly, her chopsticks trembling in her grip. Lalemana's fingers clenched so hard on her spoon that it bent.

As the competition continued, the restaurant owner retreated behind the counter for his own safety. Daisy sat in the corner, quietly praying to keep them both alive.

The two girls locked eyes, bowls raised like duelists about to clash swords. Both shoved noodles into their mouths simultaneously, refusing to be the first to back down. The air was filled with muffled groans and exaggerated chewing noises as they battled to swallow the hellish concoction.

Papitas, face swollen and eyes bulging, gestured wildly with her hands, attempting to signal a truce. Lalemana, her tongue hanging out comically, mimed wiping sweat from her brow, but her hand missed and smacked herself in the face instead.

Daisy finally stepped in. "Milady, we're out of time," she said firmly, standing between the two combatants.

"Mmmm mmmph mmmaaahhh," Lalemana mumbled, her mouth too full to form words.

"If we're late, you won't be able to say your goodbyes," Daisy added. "And your mother will be furious."

"You're right," she said after forcefully swallowing what remained of her hellish ramen, "I'll just take a quick stop in the bathroom."

Not to be outdone, Papitas also shoved the remaining food into her mouth and dashed toward the bathroom. "I call dibs!" she shouted through muffled speech, nearly tripping over her own feet as Lalemana fought to get there first.

By the time they returned to the Royal Residence, their stomachs were swollen, their faces pale, and their tongues numb. Neither said a word. Daisy, however, looked oddly serene.

The garden of the Royal Residence buzzed with activity. Workers darted around, loading supplies into a heavily armored carriage as Lady Marcella oversaw the entire operation personally.

By the time Lalemana, Daisy, and Papitas returned, Lady Marcella was already glancing at her ornate wristwatch. "Just in time, Lulú," she called out, her tone brisk but not without warmth. "A moment longer, and there'd have been punishment. Don't think I wouldn't," she pointed toward the residence. "Yours and Daisy's gear is being loaded onto the carriage. Go inside, put on your armor, and make it quick. You'll have just enough time for a goodbye before the king arrives."

Lalemana nodded, before wordlessly going inside, Lady Marcella stopping Daisy as she was about to follow, "Hold on, Daisy," she said, "I need a word with you."

In her room, Lalemana adjusted the straps of her gauntlets. The familiar weight of her armor settled over her shoulders, grounding her as she reached for her sword. She took a moment to scan the room. Or at least what was left of it.

This could be the last time I see this place, she thought, her gaze lingering on the cracked mirror above the wrecked hairdresser.

Her eyes landed on a stray tube of lipstick, half-buried in the wreckage. She picked it up, turning it over in her hands. With a faint smirk, she uncapped it and scrawled a quick message on the wall next to the door.

Satisfied, she capped the lipstick, turned off the light, and shut the door.

Her footsteps echoed faintly in the hallway as she approached the familiar door, one she hadn't visited during daylight in a long time. The sight of it stopped her in her tracks. She stared at the handle, her hand hovering uncertainly.

She clenched her fist, jaw tightening as emotions threatened to overwhelm her. Slowly, she placed her hand on the door.

"I-I…" The words caught in her throat, trembling with the weight of everything she wanted to say. "I'm leaving… finally leaving. I'll get the spirit, and…"

Her voice cracked, and she bit her lip, fighting back the tears welling in her eyes. Clenching her fist, she drew in a deep, shuddering breath before punching the door. "Nina! Wait for me!" she shouted, her voice strong and resolute. "I'll bring the spirit for you! I'll save you!" she yelled strongly enough to make sure anybody on the other side would hear.

The hallway fell silent, her words hanging in the air. She waited, straining to hear even the faintest response. None came.

"…Wait for me," she whispered, her voice barely audible now.

Her shoulders slumped slightly, but just as she turned to leave, something caught her eye—a small piece of paper sliding out from under the door. She froze, staring at it in disbelief.

Lowering herself to pick it up, she unfolded the note with shaking hands. The writing was messy, almost childlike, but unmistakably heartfelt.

[Good luck, Lulú]

Lalemana smiled, folding the piece of paper and putting it close to her heart, walking away.

Lady Marcella led Daisy to a secluded corner of the garden, glancing over her shoulder to ensure they were alone. Her usual composed demeanor had cracks in it.

"What's the matter, ma'am?" Daisy asked gently. She'd never seen her so nervous

For a moment, Marcella stood with her back to Daisy, gripping her arms together tightly. "Did you know…" Her voice was softer than usual, wavering slightly. "Did you know that Lulú and I have never been apart for more than a day? Not 24 hours since the day she was born."

"Ma'am…" Daisy stepped forward; her tone filled with concern. The scene was painfully familiar. Her own mother had been just like this when she first left home.

Lady Marcella inhaled sharply, trying to steady herself. "I knew this day would come eventually. We were even planning for it yesterday morning, for Eris' sake. But…" Her voice faltered. "It's so much harder than I thought it would be. I-I'm her mother. What if something happens to her, Daisy? What if—"

"Milady," Daisy interrupted gently, resting her hands on Lady Marcella's shoulders. Her voice was steady, but her grip was firm. "You don't need to worry. I promise you, I will make sure no harm comes to her. I'll fight to the very end to protect her. You have my word."

Marcella turned slowly, her piercing eyes glistening faintly. "Thank you, Daisy. Truly." She exhaled, letting the tension in her shoulders relax just a bit. "I suppose I needed to hear that."

Daisy gave her a reassuring nod, Lady Marcella turned her, catching glimpse of Lalemana entering the garden, "Come on, now."

"What are we waiting foooooooooooooor?" Papitas yelled from her perch on the carriage's edge, swinging her legs impatiently.

Lady Marcella appeared, brushing away an errant tear as though it were an unruly hair strand. "The king will be arriving shortly. He wanted to see you off personally."

Papitas groaned, slumping theatrically. "Oh great. A royal sendoff. Just what I always wanted."

As if on cue, a bright flash of light erupted in the center of the garden. When it faded, the king stood there, flanked by Minister Frost.

"Apologies for the delay," the king said, his tone kind but weary, deep bags under his eyes betraying his exhaustion. He signaled to a servant standing nearby, who quickly hurried into the residence.

"I still believe we're too early, Your Majesty—" Frost said, his voice bordering on a whine.

"We're leaving, shorty," Papitas interrupted with a carefree wave. She hopped off the carriage and strolled right up to Frost, making him lean back uneasily. "Unless, of course…" She squinted at him suspiciously, her voice dropping conspiratorially. "You're in cahoots with the Demon Queen and were told to stop us."

Frost recoiled; his eyes wide with alarm. "W-what?!"

The king chuckled, a deep, genuine laugh that contrasted sharply with his tired appearance. "Miss Papitas, Minister Frost has been serving this kingdom since I was but a boy. I assure you, he has only the nation's best interests at heart."

"Y-yes, precisely!" Frost spluttered. "It's an insult to even suggest such a thing!"

Papitas grinned slyly. "Yeah, yeah. Sure. You just don't strike me as her type. Too fat. Too bald."

"Excuse me?" Frost's face turned crimson, but before he could protest further, the servant returned, carrying a small, ornate treasure chest. He opened it carefully, revealing a bottle of wine nestled in velvet.

"This," the king said, lifting the bottle reverently, "is a very special vintage from the royal family's private winery. Smaller than most, yes, but its quality is unparalleled." The bottle itself was a masterpiece—its glass etched with delicate silver vines and a sapphire-blue seal shimmering faintly in the light. "If this does not serve as a worthy tribute for the Sapphire Spirit, then I doubt anything else will."

He placed it back into the chest with care, and the servant closed it, bowing deeply before retreating.

"If I may," came a voice from behind Lalemana, startling everyone. Mildred had appeared out of nowhere, her presence as sudden as a shadow. "I brought something as well."

"Mildred!" Lalemana exclaimed, her surprise quickly shifting to curiosity as Mildred approached, holding an elegant, rune-covered artifact. The Manaflare.

"It's hard to believe the day has finally come," Mildred said, smiling fondly at Lalemana. "Take it."

Lalemana hesitated, her fingers brushing against the artifact. "Are you sure? This is…"

Mildred nodded, her expression turning serious. "You're not fully ready yet, but we may not get another chance. Take it." Her smile returned, softer this time. "Mireya would've loved to see this moment. I tried reaching her, but she's… you know."

"Unreachable?" Lalemana ventured, half-smiling.

"Exactly. But she'd want me to tell you this," she mimicked Mireya's mannerisms, lowering her voice and raising her hands, "If you don't get the spirit, I'll kick your ass!"

Lalemana blinked, she stepped back, cradling the Manaflare in her hands. "Thank you," she said quietly. "I'll do my best."

"I know you will," Mildred replied, patting her on the shoulder. "And when you do, I'll be waiting to hear all about it. Don't keep me waiting too long."

"Let's go alreadyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!" Papitas yelled, slamming her fist against the carriage door with a resounding thud.

"Easy there!" the carriage driver called nervously, eyeing the shaking door. "I do believe it's time we depart, though. Archbishop Auberon won't wait forever—you know how he gets."

The king placed a steadying hand on Lalemana's shoulder, his tired eyes managing a flicker of encouragement. "Lady Lalemana, you have my utmost trust. With your efforts, we'll turn the tides of this war. I know you'll succeed."

Lalemana nodded but couldn't help glancing at her mother. Both women stood frozen for a moment, their composure cracking like porcelain under pressure.

"Oh, Lulú…" Lady Marcella broke first, rushing forward to wrap her daughter in a fierce hug. "Come on now, get out of here before I lose my nerve!" Her voice wavered, but her grip was strong, as if trying to hold Lalemana together as much as herself. Tears streamed freely down her face as she pushed her daughter away.

"Mom…" Lalemana said softly, her own tears threatening to spill as her mother cupped her face.

"Listen to me, Lulú," Lady Marcella said firmly, her voice thick with emotion. "Don't let your heart waver. This is everything you've worked for, everything you've dreamed of! Now go out there and make us proud. Do you hear me?" She gave her daughter a final, trembling push.

Lalemana stepped back, bowing deeply to her mother, the king, and everyone present. Daisy mirrored the gesture, her movements as precise as they were solemn, before following Lalemana into the carriage.

Inside, Papitas lounged on her seat, munching on something she'd apparently snuck on board. "Finally! I thought we'd be here until next week! Move it along, noble."

Lalemana sat by the window, her gaze fixed on her mother until the carriage rolled too far for her to see. She blinked rapidly, suppressing the tears that threatened to spill.

Arcanletia's Grand Central Station was a tempest of noise and chaos. Steam hissed from the monstrous trains waiting on the platforms, their glossy black exteriors gleaming. The station's high-vaulted ceilings, crisscrossed with iron girders, amplified the mess of shouts, whistles, and frenzied singing.

Hundreds of Axis followers surged through the station like a tidal wave, their brightly patterned clothes clashing with the drab uniforms of the overwhelmed station staff. Axis priests and nuns barked orders that were promptly ignored as believers scrambled to find their luggage—or their trains—in the ever-shifting tide of humanity. Soldiers, red-faced and sweating, struggled to maintain some semblance of order, their voices drowned out by a mix of chanting and bickering.

"Can you believe it, Artie?" Archbishop Auberon said, his voice almost gleeful as he surveyed the chaos from the steps of the station. "At long last! Make this a pilgrimage they'll never forget!"

Arthur, who looked like he hadn't slept in days, groaned audibly. "Archbishop Auberon, why didn't you listen when I begged you to schedule these groups? We could've avoided—" He gestured wildly at the chaos. "—this!"

Archbishop Auberon slapped him on the back, nearly sending him sprawling. "Oh, that's on me! I forgot. But if you think about it, isn't it our fault for not reminding me more? Wahahahaha!"

Arthur stared at him, deadpan. "That doesn't even make—ugh, never mind."

The chaotic crowd spilled out into the surrounding streets, blocking traffic for several blocks in every direction. The carriage, trapped and utterly useless, had been abandoned long before they reached the station.

Papitas stood out easily, towering over the crowd with the party's luggage balanced effortlessly on her shoulders.

Lalemana grimaced as she tried to maneuver through the crowd. "How are we supposed to find our way through all this?"

Daisy remained calm, leading the way with surprising ease. "Don't worry, milady. A full squadron of the Royal Guard is accompanying us. They've been briefed on both you and Miss Papitas' appearances. If we get separated, they'll find us and guide us. We're taking the first train departing from Platform A, alongside the other nobles."

Papitas cocked an eyebrow. "Great. First class chaos."

Steam hissed from the train's engine, curling into the air as whistles pierced through the chaos. Arthur paced back and forth on the platform, "Are you sure they're not here yet? This train has to leave!" he barked, his voice laced with impatience.

One of the nearby army commanders snapped back, "I told you—we're looking! Watch for white flare smoke; that means someone's found them and they're on the way!"

As if on cue, a plume of white smoke billowed into the sky a short distance away. Arthur's shoulders sagged in relief, and he immediately took off running. When he reached the group, he found Lalemana, Daisy, and Papitas drenched in sweat and visibly tired from the scorching summer heat.

"Finally! Do you three have any idea how long I've been waiting?!" he scolded, his frustration boiling over.

"I-I'm sorry—!" Daisy began, bowing deeply in apology.

"It's a miracle we made it through this mess!" Lalemana cut in, gesturing at the crowd behind them. "There must be over a thousand people out there! Who planned this circus? An idiot?"

Arthur pinched the bridge of his nose. "Look, just save the complaints and follow me. We need to get moving before the train leaves without you." Without waiting for a response, he turned on his heel and marched back toward the platform.

Once at the train, Arthur directed them toward the first-class cart, where staff hurried to help Papitas load their luggage. Daisy chatted briefly with a group of Royal Guards, her voice carrying calm efficiency.

Arthur handed Lalemana off to the train staff with a quick wave. "This'll be a long trip, but you'll be comfortable here. Don't worry about a thing."

Lalemana frowned, her hands on her hips. "Wait, Arthur—are you not coming with us?"

Arthur paused, glancing at her over his shoulder with a smirk. "Babysit a runaway noble? Nah. There are plenty of guards for that." He nodded toward the Royal Guard stationed at the cart's entrance. "I'll catch the last train out after making sure everyone else boards safely. If Lady Aqua wills it, I'll see you in Ilyora before the hard part of the pilgrimage starts."

Without giving her a chance to respond, he waved lazily and strode off, his ledger tucked under one arm.

Lalemana puffed out her cheeks in frustration. "Hmph!" she muttered, watching his retreating back.

Papitas stretched her arms with an exaggerated yawn. "About time. Let's get on already," she said, her tone as casual as if Lalemana wasn't leaving the only home she'd ever known.

The three boarded the train, their footsteps muffled by the plush carpet as they entered the first-class cart.

The interior gleamed with opulence. Polished mahogany paneling framed walls adorned with gilded sconces and silk drapes. The soft hum of the train's machinery barely intruded on the serene atmosphere, muffled by thick carpets and velvet upholstery.

The trio found their seats in an alcove near the front of the cart. It was an inviting space with a low table dividing two rows of ample, cushioned seats. Daisy and Lalemana slid into one side, the latter claiming the window seat. Papitas plopped into the seat across from them, stretching her legs beneath the table as though she owned the place.

Lalemana leaned back, glancing around the cart. "This almost makes up for the disaster outside," she muttered. Papitas didn't respond—she had already started to doze, her snores rising steadily above the faint clatter of the train.

Despite the constant whistles and shouts, it took another two hours before the train jolted into motion. The gradual hum of acceleration replaced the clamor outside, and the muffled cheers of the crowd faded into the distance. Lalemana rested her chin on her hand, her gaze fixed on the window as the cityscape of Arcanletia began to melt away.

The familiar cobbled streets and pastel rooftops of her home blurred together before vanishing entirely. The towering spires of Axis temples that had dominated the skyline gave way to stretches of green fields and the vast, open horizon. The train rumbled past the city's perimeter wall, marking the boundary between the world Lalemana had known her whole life and the unknown awaiting her.

This was it. She was officially gone.

Yet, instead of triumph or even relief, her chest felt unbearably heavy. Her thoughts churned, an unrelenting tide of worry and self-doubt. What's waiting for me out there? What happens if I fail? What happens if I... don't come back?

Her mother's words from earlier echoed in her mind. Don't let your heart waver. But the knot in her stomach only tightened. Her hand curled into a fist against her knee.

Daisy noticed her expression and leaned closer. "Milady, are you alright?"

Lalemana forced a small smile. "I'm fine. Just... thinking."

Daisy hesitated but nodded, letting the conversation drop. Lalemana returned her gaze to the window, watching as the city faded entirely from view. She placed a hand on the cool glass, her fingers trembling slightly.

Goodbye, Arcanletia.

Part 6

Miles west, deep within the ruins of the former Royal Capital, an unusual flurry of activity had taken hold.

For over a century, no human had dared to tread on what remained of the once-thriving city. The verdant greenery that had once surrounded it had long since succumbed to the harsh desert that now stretched endlessly across the region. Between the unforgiving environment and the countless monsters prowling its dunes, any attempt to recover treasures or relics from the ruins was nothing short of suicidal.

But for the Demon Queen's forces, this desolate wasteland served a far greater purpose. The ruins had become a major base of operations—a critical waypoint between the Demon Capital and the frontlines against the Kingdom of Belzerg. Yet even for a site as strategically important as this, the current level of activity was extraordinary. Hundreds of monsters swarmed through the city, making several kinds of engravements across the ruins.

High above the chaos, atop the last standing tower of the crumbling Royal Castle, a dimly lit room hummed with tension.

Shadows danced along the cracked stone walls, the flickering light from a single candelabrum casting long, distorted shapes across the chamber. Around a massive, weathered table sat several high-ranking demons, their faces obscured by the low light.

Amid the chaos, a single figure reclined lazily in their chair, seeming entirely unbothered by the heated debate. An amused smile on its lips carried an unsettling edge. It held a small piece of paper in one hand, its edges slightly singed as if the message had been delivered via magical means.

The text, short and cryptic, was all too clear:

[MVP en route. Verdant Heights.]