Curiosity of God

Ilina Ophelle has always prided herself on her piercing insight and cool-headed decision making. She is quite young by high elf standards, but she is still treated as an adult by those at elven court. Such is the reputation she has earned for her intellect and ability to read people. However, events of late have made her question her judgement.

Before Ilina left the Elven Kingdom several months ago with her faithful attendant, Klaus, she hadn't formed much of an opinion on humans. This also applied to most of the other races – she was relatively isolated in that regard within the Elven Kingdom. As far as she was concerned, someone's race should have little bearing on how you evaluate them.

However, somewhere along the way in her time since leaving the Elven Kingdom, her view of humans had slowly changed, and not for the better. At first, Ilina was excited to interact with humans, thinking that it would be the key to ridding the elves of their widespread prejudice against humans, which she considered unreasonable and counterproductive.

However, on a couple of occasions in her and Klaus's travels to Elmesia, Ilina's appearance had been noticed by humans. In one case, a man who took a liking to her tried to assault her, and Klaus was forced to kill him.

This experience had thoroughly shaken her, and it showed her the uglier side of humanity. However, she knew that this wasn't something specific to humans. Elven men had looked at her with a similar greed in her home country. It was simply that her station thwarted such brazen actions. So, she remained optimistic, and she ascribed the encounter to bad luck.

Later, Ilina willingly revealed her appearance to a human woman giving them shelter on their travels, thinking her trustworthy. From her discussion with the woman, Ilina was confident that she harbored no hatred toward elves. She also felt that the concerns of her first encounter with the man wouldn't apply in this woman's care.

Alas, later that night, the woman asked Klaus if he could collect firewood, saying that she feared the woods after dark. Klaus was hesitant, but he complied at Ilina's insistence. Unbeknownst to the two elves, the human woman had already alerted slavers to Ilina's presence, and while Klaus was away, they kidnapped and imprisoned her.

Distraught, Ilina implored the woman to explain why she would do this to someone who'd never done her harm. She replied, 'Nobles will pay a pretty penny for pretty and exotic things like yourself'. Not being able to reconcile the woman's cavalier attitude with her earlier judgement, Ilina asked why she would ever treat another woman like this. 'You're just an elf', the woman had responded.

It was then that Ilina realized, the woman didn't hate elves, she just didn't respect their rights in the face of human desires. It was as if this woman equated elves to cattle, and Ilina found this to be her most unsettling encounter with humans.

Before, Ilina mourned the loss of any life. However, when Klaus returned early and slaughtered every human involved with Ilina's capture, narrowly saving her from a life of slavery and exploitation, she felt nothing but disgust and satisfaction at their deaths.

These events are why, by the time she arrived in Elmesia, she had concluded that humans were fundamentally untrustworthy and antagonistic to other races. She held out a faint hope that perhaps there were exceptions, but even this hope died when that group of adventurers they tried to employ turned on them.

As she reflects now, the evening of the day after her encounter with Mizuki, she thinks that this may be why she made such a grave miscalculation with respect to his nature. In her prior encounters, she paid attention to the humans' natures, and in doing so failed to predict their actions. However, with Mizuki she had focused so much on his actions that she failed to understand his nature.

When Mizuki, a young boy in Ilina's eyes, brazenly proposed that he could be of help to them in their quest to search the forest, she didn't see it as putting the needs of others above his own safety, but as human arrogance.

When he traded insults with her, goaded her into a wager, and then underhandedly threatened her very life, she only assumed that he was a greedy human who saw pawning her life as the only way to overcome his own weakness and earn a payday.

When his eyes lingered too long on her figure at first in their inn room, she was convinced that he was already thinking of ways to exploit her.

It wasn't until later that night, when she accused him of being the type to sell her to slavers, and when Klaus pointed out the anomaly of his eyes, that she finally realized the change in herself.

She'd always valued evaluating another person directly, sizing up their character and letting that lead her decisions. With Mizuki, however, she realized she hadn't once looked at him this way, with that intent.

When he looked her in the eye last night and proclaimed his feelings on slavery, she felt she saw his true nature clearly for the first time. Despite how she'd mistreated Mizuki, his eyes showed nothing but the fierce desire to support his ideals – principle exceeded race.

When his attitude promptly returned to its cavalier default, she realized something else as well. She'd been the subject of misdirection from the very start. Mizuki cared more about realizing his sense of justice, than about others perceiving him as just.

Working backwards from that insight, and reflecting on his prior actions, she is now of the opinion that Mizuki is hiding his strength. Still, these revelations do not give her a sense that she truly understands him. While she is confident that he would not directly threaten them, it remains a complete mystery to her why he inserted himself into their affairs, or what he hopes to gain from it.

These thoughts trouble her, but she is more troubled by the job they hope to recruit Mizuki for. While Mizuki is unaware of this, the Elven Kingdom is facing an unprecedented and potentially existential threat. She came to seek the Elder Dragon of earth's aid in thwarting that threat. She has no idea what to expect from the dragon, but she knows that she needs to secure its assistance no matter the cost.

To pile on these worries, she knows that time is of the essence. When she left the Elven Kingdom, she felt that her country had perhaps a year to prepare for the impending threat.

It took over two months for her and Klaus to journey here, and it may take another month or more just to find the dragon in the forest. It's unclear how long it will take to secure its assistance and exit the forest. She also has other matters she hopes to address on this trip, and then there's the long return trip to the Elven Kingdom.

Consequently, Ilina is hyper focused on preparing for her meeting with Mizuki in an hour. She considers it essential that they secure his help and locate the dragon as soon as possible.

She would spend the next hour formulating search strategies and resource management for their long-term search in the forest. Little did she know, the impatient Mizuki had already made arrangements that would turn her plans upside down.

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After leaving Nina, I teleported back to the forest's edge near the city, then applied body enhancement and concealment spells and sprinted my way to the inn that Ilina and Klaus were staying at. I ducked in a nearby alley to drop my spells covertly, then walked into the inn.

At reception, I requested a room with a bath for two nights. Like Ilina before, the receptionist eyed my clothing suspiciously and told me it'd cost one gold coin. However, when I produced the coin, she was all smiles. She gave me the key, and she asked if there was anything else I needed. I requested that some food be brought to my room ASAP and gave her a silver coin to cover cost and tip.

I'm currently soaking in a much-needed bath, enjoying my food. It's the same steak, potatoes, and veggies I ordered at the tavern recently. However, the quality is much better, and I'm having black tea with it instead of water.

Thinking about the last hour I spent with Nina, I smile unconsciously. Curious about our new connection, I use magic sense to locate her, and I estimate that she's roughly where she was before, a little over 300 km south of here.

I try and locate her through our connection, and I'm surprised by the responsiveness of it. Not only do I know exactly where she is, but I have a vague sense of her surroundings. The level of detail is such that I think I could safely teleport to her anywhere via our connection.

I also probe her current state of mind, and I get a sense of…excitement and satisfaction? I wonder what that's about.

[Hey, Nina! How are you doing? I'm getting a mix of smugness mixed with self-satisfaction from you. Anything I should know about?] (Mizuki)

I reach out to her via our thought connection to satisfy my curiosity.

[Hey, Mizuki! So, you're using our link to peep on me already, huh? Sorry, I decided to keep my clothes on after you left.] (Nina)

She responds back to me with a playful tone. I can tell that she's glad to hear from me, so I ignore the peeping comment. I can also tell that she's changing the subject by trying to fluster me.

[I think you might be in trouble, Nina. Now I can tell when you're trying to hide something from me, you know? You're not going to be able to distract me with your suggestive remarks anymore!] (Mizuki)

I feel a sense of amusement coming through our connection.

[Tch…you're no fun when you're comfortable with me. You caught me, though. I've been practicing something that I'm excited to show you later, but don't ask me about it for now, okay? I want it to be a surprise!] (Nina)

Well, that makes me more than a little curious, but I want her to feel like she still has privacy, so I need to practice boundaries for myself. Plus, she said she'd show me later, so I can wait.

[Alright, I guess I can wait then. I'm looking forward to it! Also, I'm about to go meet with the elves, so I'll be no-contact with you until I'm done. I promise to let you know afterwards what the plan is, though.] (Mizuki)

[Understood! Best of luck, Mizuki.] (Nina)

After her last message, I feel her emotions become serious. I guess she turned her attention back to whatever she's doing.

I sink deeper into the bath and take one last deep breath, then I mentally prepare myself for what's ahead.

"Alright. Let's do this." (Mizuki)

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After getting dressed into my normal clothes and donning my dagger just in case, I make my way downstairs and knock on the door to Ilina and Klaus's room.

I hear footsteps inside, and then the door opens to reveal Ilina. She's in her same outfit as last night, minus the cloak. Once again, I feel a brief surge of attraction, and I'm thankful that her personality has made me immune to any serious romantic interest.

"Welcome, Mizuki, it's good to see you again. Please come in!" (Ilina)

Her tone is warm and lighthearted, and she wears a smile, but her expression seems strained. I thank her and enter the room.

Klaus is sitting at the table, so I join him. Out of curiosity, I use my magic sense to gauge their relative magic power levels while Ilina is making her way over. I forcibly suppress my shock…Klaus is the third strongest presence in the city, but Ilina towers above him as the strongest presence around.

Ilina sits down across from me a few moments later, and I inspect her with a new wariness. She's not strong enough to be a threat to me or Nina, really, but she's fearsome for sure.

I pretend to clear my throat to get their attention, then get straight to the point.

"Ehem…so, I won't beat around the bush. Do you want to accept my help? If so, how many others will you want to bring? Finally, when would you want to depart on this journey?" (Mizuki)

Klaus looks surprised by my directness, but Ilina just gives a tired smile. I wonder what's up with her tonight.

"That's fine, Mizuki, I don't mind getting straight to business. First, yes, we'd like to accept your offer to hire you. We've already discussed pay, so I guess there's no need to rehash it if you haven't changed your mind?" (Ilina)

She pauses and raises her eyebrows questioningly. I shake my head to confirm.

"Good. Next, we've opted to just take the three of us. That ordeal with the adventurers outside the tavern left a bad taste in our mouth, and we don't want to risk it again. We'll trust in our abilities for this." (Ilina)

I nod my agreement while she continues.

"Finally, we want to leave and arrive as soon as possible. I don't know the most efficient way to locate the dragon, since there is virtually no information on its specific whereabouts within such a massive forest. I could see the job of locating it taking over a month, and I don't want to undertake something like that unprepared. So, we should spend the rest of the night discussing our strategy and preparations for the journey. I've given it some thought, but do you have suggestions?" (Ilina)

Yeah, those are all reasonable expectations. I'm planning on upending them hilariously, but I need some more answers first.

Ilina is looking at me expectantly, and Klaus is looking on curious but relaxed.

"I do, actually. However, before I tell you that, I have one more line of questioning. Tell me, Ilina…what do you plan to do after I get you to the dragon." (Mizuki)

Klaus narrows his eyes but doesn't say anything. Ilina's face tightens, and after a moment, she answers cautiously.

"Don't you mean IF you get me to the dragon?" (Ilina)

Question dodging? Really? Whatever, that was my slipup too, I guess. No point in hiding it now.

"No. If I agree to take you, you'll see the dragon, I promise. Now I'd appreciate it if you don't dodge any more questions." (Mizuki)

I look directly at Ilina as I say this, who looks relatively calm and is matching my gaze.

"Very well. When we get to the dragon, I have a request to make of it. That's it." (Ilina)

Good, that's straightforward. I need to confirm something though.

"I see. So, you don't plan on attacking it unprovoked?" (Mizuki)

I glare at her suspiciously as I ask. She still doesn't waver.

"No." (Ilina)

"So, then. What is the nature of the request?" (Mizuki)

"All I'm willing to say is that my country is facing an unprecedented threat, and I need the dragon's help." (Ilina)

Her tone is completely neutral, and her gaze gives nothing away.

What help could they possibly want from Nina? Also, what is threatening her whole country? I'm sure she won't tell me. However, that does change things. If her very country is on the line…

"Okay, understood. Then, allow me to clarify something. The job we discussed was just to get you to the dragon safely. I'm taking that literally. After I do that, if you attack the dragon outside of self-defense, I won't be intervening at all. I will stand to the side and let it kill you, and I assure you that's what would happen. Are you okay taking me along knowing that?" (Mizuki)

Klaus's eyes go wide in surprise, and he leans forward with his hands on the table. He opens his mouth and starts to object, but Ilina cuts him off harshly. Then, she turns a piercing gaze back at me and lets out a begrudging smile.

"Yes, I understand. You won't condone violence against someone who didn't earn it, even if it's a dragon. Everybody's lives have equal value, right?" (Ilina)

The question within her response seems rhetorical. She looks at me like she's happy to hear the news. I'm finding it strangely unsettling given the tension, but I'm glad she's pleased, I guess.

After a moment of tense silence, I clap and let out a big smile to try and break the tension.

"Alright, then you have my full support, and I'm excited to be working with you!" (Mizuki)

Klaus shakes his head in exasperation, but Ilina just chuckles.

"So, then, tell me how you think we should locate the dragon?" (Ilina)

I slowly smile at her, and she gives me a quizzical look in return.

"First, get the clothes and weapons you want, and at least two days' worth of food and water for travel." (Mizuki)

Ilina's face turns into pure confusion.

"Uhm…sure. We actually already have that, but won't we need way more than two days' worth?" (Ilina)

She looks at me expectantly.

"Nope. Have that stuff ready tomorrow at sunrise. I'll meet you here at your room, then take you to the dragon. You'll be seeing it tomorrow morning." (Mizuki)

Klaus and Ilina both open their mouths in shock and stand up like they're going to ask me questions, but I raise my hand to cut them off.

"I know you're dying to know how that's possible, or think I'm deranged, or something else, but I meant what I said. Also, don't bother with any questions about how I'm doing it. I'll tell you tomorrow when we depart, but not before then. If you want to see the dragon quickly, you only have to do as I asked." (Mizuki)

Ilina has a range of emotions flicker across her face, but after a moment she seems to resolve them. She smiles as earnestly as I've seen then entire night, then nods.

"Alright, Mizuki, we'll be ready for you tomorrow morning then."

After, Ilina suggests sharing tea and snacks to help ease the tension that built up. She doesn't want us to go into tomorrow suspicious of one another.

I think it's a refreshingly civil suggestion from her, and since the tension is kind of my fault, I agree. So, I spend some time engaging in idle chat with them about the city before wrapping up with them for the night.

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I've returned to my inn room, and it's a couple hours after dark, but still too soon to sleep. Unfortunately, it's not like there is TV or videogames in this world. There are some books, but I don't really want to practice magic in here. I also don't feel like reading about monsters, world history, or geography. I let out a deep sigh…if only there were manga here.

Oh, right. I did promise to let Nina know what was up after talking with the elves. I guess I better reach out.

I reach out to Nina through our connection, and I sense mild…apprehension…loneliness? Wonder what that's about.

[Hey, Nina! I just finished up with the elves. Are you okay? You feel off.] (Mizuki)

Upon me reaching out, I feel the loneliness give way to a warmer feeling, but the apprehension doesn't disappear entirely.

[Oh, hey! How sweet, were you worried about me?] (Nina)

The message carries a teasing tone, but I can feel that she's happy about it. I shoot back a message covered in sarcasm.

[My mistake, I'll do better next time!] (Mizuki)

I sense amusement from her after my message, then there's a long silence and I can feel her apprehension growing. Eventually…

[Mizuki?] (Nina)

The message carries a nervous tone.

[Yeah?] (Mizuki)

[Since the meeting is over, and if I promise to just stay in the room where you are, can you come get me and us spend some time together?] (Nina)

My initial thought is 'no', but I can sense the hope from her, mixed with more of the apprehension. If she doesn't leave the room, it should be fine. Maybe it's an effect of the contract, but I cave.

Without another word, I track her with our connection and teleport beside her. She's in the clearing by the edge of the forest, sitting under a tree in her same clothes from before. The night air is cool, and I can see her in the moonlight.

Upon me appearing, she jumps up in shock. Seeing that it's me, I sense surprise and excitement from her, then she lunges at me and wraps me in a hug. I sigh deeply and smile.

Honestly, it's nice having someone enjoy my company. I was starting to feel kind of lonely on Azura. I don't know if it's an effect of our contract, but I already feel strangely close to Nina.

"Mizuki, you really came! You're going to let me come back with you!?" (Nina)

She looks up at me excitedly, and I can't help but chuckle aloud.

"Of course, you asked so nicely after all, and I did say that we are friends now." (Mizuki)

I sense her being flustered, and I chuckle again and send her a teasing message.

[Oh my, are you embarrassed, Nina? I didn't know you were so easy to fluster!] (Mizuki)

[Tch…can you take me back now or what?] (Nina)

She looks up at me with an annoyed face, but I sense that she's pleased.

[Sure, hold on to me and don't make any sudden movements.] (Mizuki)

After I feel her hug tighten, I teleport us back to my room at the inn.

Upon arriving, I look down and see that she has her eyes closed nervously, and I stifle my laughter. I think of teasing her again, but I decide I've made fun of her enough for a few minutes.

"Nina, we're here. You can relax." (Mizuki)

I sense relief through our connection, and she steps away from me to look around. The inn room has a couch with coffee table, small dining table, a bed, and a side room with a bathtub. So, there's not much for her to sightsee in my opinion, but she obviously feels differently.

"Woahhh, so these are what human nests look like? You have so many things!" (Nina)

She seems particularly fascinated by the couch, and she keeps pushing the cushions with her hands. Then, she sits on it, and starts lightly bouncing. Good grief, she might be as immature as Ilina, just more likeable.

On the other hand, maybe I'm not being sympathetic enough about how new this all may be to her. After all, her ancestors may have been human originally, but she's lived her life as a dragon, separate from humans.

Speaking of Ilina and her immaturity – what happened? Since about halfway through our conversation last night, she's seemed like a different person. I pressed her pretty hard today, and she was nothing but pleasant the entire time. Hell, I'd say she was downright regal in her handling of everything, like her title suggests she should be. She took charge of the entire conversation, and Klaus hardly got a word in edgewise.

I wonder…which is the real her? The one I met, or the one I just spoke with. Maybe I misjudged her initially. I mean, she did just have a group of humans attempt to kill her most trusted attendant and imply other unsavory intentions.

That was only minutes before we met, and I was introduced as a human and fellow adventurer no less. Then, me holding that knife to her throat probably solidified me on her shit list.

"Hey, Mizuki, what's this?" (Nina)

Nina's call to me interrupts my thoughts, and I look over to see her inspecting the bathtub. I walk over to where she is to see her climbing into it – fully clothed, thankfully. She is looking over it perplexed. So, she doesn't understand what it does, huh?

The tub is imbued with magic that makes it function like a bath on modern Earth. There is one faucet interface that produces water – how so, I have no idea. This has been bothering me since I noticed it. How are they producing all that water!? There's nowhere near enough in the air, and teleportation or alchemy should use way too much magic for normal people.

There is also another knob-like interface on the tub that heats everything inside, but you have to generate the water first and then wait several minutes for it to heat up. The tub also drains easily through the bottom – I'm assuming that this building has piping for it.

A faint smile spreads across my face. I think it'd be funny to tell her to just cut on the water knob and see her freak out. Do I have a mean streak? Maybe. Has she earned some teasing, though? Most definitely.

"Mizuki?" (Nina)

My thoughts are again interrupted. Nina's looking up at me from the tub expectantly. Jarred out of my scheming, I just respond directly.

"Ah, sorry, I got distracted. It's used to take a bath. You turn this…" (Mizuki)

I lean over and gesture at the water knob.

"…to make water fill up this container you're sitting in, called a tub. Then, you turn this…" (Mizuki)

I move my hand over to gesture at the heating knob.

"…to make the water heat up." (Mizuki)

After my explanation, I return my gaze to Nina, whose eyes are sparkling excitedly.

"You can use this to take a bath with hot water anytime you want!? I normally have to go find a large natural hot spring when I want to do that!" (Nina)

Oh yeah…I guess that makes sense for a dragon. I don't know what I assumed she normally does.

"Yeah, that's right. Humans can't just fly to a hot spring like you can." (Mizuki)

She seems to be mostly ignoring my response and staring intently at the tub. I start to sense anticipation through our connection…I think I know what comes next.

"Mizuki, can I please use this to take a hot bath?" (Nina)

Yup, there it is. I groan internally. Well…actually…why does her taking a bath bother me so much? She's not asking me to join her.

I'm assuming that it would make me a creep, but she's a millennia old dragon who's more than capable of making her own decisions about what she's comfortable with. So…maybe I'm the one being weird here?

"Uhm…I mean I don't have any problem with you taking a bath, but are you sure you're okay with me being around here with you undressed? The room doesn't really offer you any privacy, but I can stay turned around for a while?" (Mizuki)

She turns her gaze from the tub to me, and a confused expression is evident on her face.

"No? It's just a bath, Mizuki. I know I joked about you peeping on me before, but you don't need to feel guilty. Honestly…" (Nina)

Her expression turns mischievous.

"…I don't mind if you see me. You can stay right here while I bathe." (Nina)

She ends her statement by holding my gaze with a playful smile. At first, I assume she's teasing me again to see me flustered, but then I sense genuine curiosity from her through our connection. I can feel my mouth go dry at the implication.

Truthfully, it did not escape my notice how attractive Nina is…but…I'm not ready to complicate one of the few connections I've fostered here. We're still getting to know each other, and I don't want to irreversibly cross a line right now.

"Well, I'll pass on the peep show, but if you're comfortable with it then please enjoy a nice hot bath." (Mizuki)

Nina sighs deeply, then shrugs. I think I detect a hint of disappointment, but then she gives me a smile.

"Suit yourself, then. Now, could you prepare this bath for me, please?" (Nina)

She's already climbed out of the tub and is staring at it excitedly. The sight brings a wry smile to my face.

I draw the water to the right level for her and activate the heating feature. While letting the water heat, I go grab her a towel and set it beside the tub. After a few minutes, the temperature seems appropriate for a hot bath. I turn to Nina, who is waiting impatiently with an excited smile, and give her the good news.

"Alright, you're all set!" (Mizuki)

Nina squeals excitedly, then moves like she's grabbing her shirt. Oh, yeah, that's my cue. I make my way over to the couch and take a seat, careful not to look in her direction.

After a few minutes I hear water stirring and Nina sighs deeply.

"Alright, Mizuki, you're fine to look now. Don't worry, you've properly missed the show." (Nina)

Her tone is thick with sarcasm, and I can sense amusement from her as well. However, I sense something else, too…apprehension, again? I've been feeling that from her on and off tonight. It was strongest before I contacted her after the meeting, and then just a moment ago.

That aside, it reminds me that I haven't told her about the situation with the elves. I snap out of my thoughts and look over at her.

Nina is leaning her head back on the tub with a smile, and her eyes are closed. The water barely covers her, and it's more than a little distracting.

Nope! Wait, I wanted to tell her about the elves.

"Right, Nina, so about the meeting with the elves." (Mizuki)

Without opening her eyes, she makes a 'mhmm' sound, suggesting that I continue.

"We agreed that tomorrow morning I will escort the two of them to meet you. I guess we will arrive about an hour or two after sunrise. Like I said before, I'll be teleporting them to you. I'll make sure to warn you about five minutes or so before we arrive via thought communication. So, do you know what you'll be doing when we arrive?" (Mizuki)

She opens her eyes and looks at me with a confident smile.

"Yeah, don't worry! I'll be in my dragon form, and I'll do my standard intimidation routine about who dares approach me, but I won't attack them. After, I'll pretend to notice how you arrived, and I'll mention the pretty item that brought you straight to me. Then, after they ask me what they want, I'll first insist that they hand over that item. I will also pretend that you and I have never met." (Nina)

What the hell? I thought for sure I was going to have to explain this to her multiple times, but she remembered all that from yesterday. She's reliable…I'll have to give her more credit in the future.

Apparently, I'm surprised enough that my feelings leak out to her through our connection.

"Hey, Mizuki, I'm offended that you're so surprised! I'll have you know that I'm responsible for a dragon. I'll let it slide this time since I felt you appreciating me afterward, but you better make up for that insult." (Nina)

She directs a smirk my way as she says this. Yup, guilty as charged. This connection sure is a double-edged sword. I hold my hands up in fake fear.

"Hey, hey, you caught me. I'll make sure to repent for the error in my judgement." (Mizuki)

I make sure to flash her a smile as I say the last part, and she nods with satisfaction and slides deeper into her bath. Then, her face changes like something occurred to her, and she turns her gaze back to me.

"By the way, Mizuki, did you ever find out what they want?" (Nina)

"Ah, yes, to some degree. Ilina, the princess, claims that the Elven Kingdom is in danger, and they want to ask for your help with whatever it is. Out of all the dragons, any idea why they chose to ask you? I thought there was even another Elder Dragon in the Delmura Forest." (Mizuki)

I feel a slight spike in Nina's apprehension, but it passes as quickly as it surfaced. She makes a 'hmm' sound as if pondering my question.

"You're correct, the Elder Dragon of wind, Halzar, also lives in the forest. As for why they'd ask me for help, I can only guess that it's because I killed those humans a while back. Most of the Elder Dragons avoid interfering in the affairs of other races on this planet. Even Halzar didn't plan on stopping those humans unless they directly antagonized him. Since I chose to go out of my way and punish those humans, the elves you speak of might think I'm the most likely to get involved in their affairs." (Nina)

Well, that's news. I guess that's consistent with what I read in my Azura history book, but I didn't know that Elder Dragons are so hands-off about world affairs. Apparently, Nina is the only hothead?

"And do you? Plan to get involved, that is." (Mizuki)

"Eh, not really. I'll wait and make up my mind when I have more details, but I can't imagine anything that interests me being revealed. Besides…" (Nina)

She looks at me nervously while continuing.

"From what I recall, the elves distrust humans above all other races. If I went to their county to help them, we likely wouldn't be able to see each other. Thanks to you, today has been the most fun I've had in a long time…and…our contract has only increased my desire for your company." (Nina)

As she explains her position, I sense a rise in her apprehension again.

"I see…well, I would understand if you wanted to go. That said, I'll be happy to keep enjoying your company if you decide to stay."

Those are my true feelings. I offer her a warm smile as I respond, and she seems happy about it. At that moment, I also remember Ilina's comment about securing Nina's help at all costs. My face turns serious, and Nina seems to notice the change in my expression.

I use magic sense to quickly assess Nina's power and compare it to Ilina's nearby. I sigh in relief. As I thought, Ilina would be hopelessly outclassed if she tried to attack Nina. That probably would have been the case before our contract, but it's definitely true now – Ilina doesn't even have 1% of Nina's power.

"Nina, just so you know, Ilina has no plans to take 'no' as an answer from you. I don't think she wants to attack you, or is even likely to do so, but I can't completely rule it out. So, just be careful. I told her in no uncertain terms that if they try to attack you unprovoked that I won't stop you from killing them. I don't think they're any threat to you, but if your life was endangered, I promise that I'd step in and stop them." (Mizuki)

Nina's eyes go wide, and she opens her mouth in shock. The apprehension I've been sensing from her quickly lessens. I've been avoiding pressing her to bare her soul about that, but it might be time to ask about it.

"Nina, I didn't want to pry before, because I think you're entitled to some amount of privacy despite our contract. However, I've been feeling apprehension from you most of the night. Is there something you want to talk about? That's kind of what having a friend is for." (Mizuki)

I give her the warmest smile I can as I say this, and I try to push my feelings of concern through our connection.

"So, you noticed that, huh?" (Nina)

Nina smiles wryly in response, and I sense a twinge of fear and nervousness swirling in her. Then, she sighs deeply and sinks into the bath further. After a minute, she seems to make up her mind, and she sits back up to address me.

"You know, it's been quite some time now, but I used to reside at a different area in the forest. It was wonderful, with a bigger lake, lots of nice fruit, and good sunbathing spots. There was even a natural hot spring close by." (Nina)

I stay silent, waiting to see where this goes, and she continues with her random anecdote.

"Eventually, Halzar found the place, too. He wanted to set up his nest in that area, and he mentioned the idea to me. I refused, and eventually we got in a fight over the territory. Being much stronger than me, he won, and I ended up moving my nest to where you found me. I know that it was ridiculous of me to behave that way. Still, even knowing I'd lose, I fought him for it." (Nina)

She glances over my way, gauging my reaction. Sensing my confusion, she rolls her eyes and continues. 

"I'm saying that I never have been, and never will be, good at sharing things that I like with others." (Nina)

She now looks at me expectantly, like 'do you understand?'. Uhm…no…no I do not. I'm confused as hell you lunatic dragon.

Seeing my dumbfounded expression, she groans and looks down at her bath water. I also begin to sense embarrassment from her.

"Damn it, Mizuki, I'm saying that I like when it's just the two of us, and I don't want to share you. It's embarrassing, and I know I don't own you, but that's what you've been sensing." (Nina)

At this point she's strongly avoiding eye contact with me. I can't even tease her for that, though, because I'm so confused.

What in the actual hell is she talking about? Sharing me? The only other person I could even call a friend in this world is Percivil. As far as I know, she doesn't even know about him, much less have a reason to be jealous.

I decide it's best to be direct.

"Uhm…Nina, I'm sorry if this comes off as insensitive…but…what the hell are you going on about? Sharing me with who?" (Mizuki)

She snaps her gaze over to me and her eyes open wide. I sense a rush of confusion and…anger? Oh boy.

"Don't you play dumb with me! The emotional connection goes both ways, you know. When you went to meet the elves earlier, I felt a huge rush of attraction from you. I'm guessing it was towards that elven princess. If she became your mate…I doubt she'd want you spending time with me." (Nina)

She layers the phrase 'elven princess' with disdain, then she frowns and looks down at the bathwater again.

I cannot believe this right now. Is she worried I'm going to abandon her…over Ilina!? It's so absurd for so many reasons. I think it's time I had a little heart-to-heart with her about all this.

I meet her gaze and give her a warm smile.

"Alright, let me assure you that we're friends. I'm not going to abandon you, and I'll be here for you if you need me. I'll show you…this is how I felt when I agreed to bring you here tonight…" (Mizuki)

I think about picking her up earlier, when she hugged me enthusiastically, and I forward to her how grateful I felt to have someone happy to spend time with me.

She looks up at me in surprise and smiles. I sense a flood of happiness from her, and her mood seems to improve significantly. However, her expression dampens after a moment.

"I appreciate and believe that you're willing to be my friend…truly. I just…" (Nina)

I can sense some disappointment around the word 'friend', and she trails off without finishing her thoughts.

Is it really that? We've only known each other a day. There's no way she's romantically interested, right? I wonder…

"I can also assure you that I don't have any interest in a romantic relationship with the elven princess, Ilina. Here, see for yourself. This is how I feel when I'm in her company…" (Mizuki)

I think about the night I first visited Ilina in her and Klaus's room, and how I felt annoyed the first several minutes of talking with her. As I do this, I focus on pushing the emotions I felt to Nina.

Nina gives me a surprised look, and I sense relief from her.

"So, there are no such women in your life – no romantic interests?" (Nina)

Nina watches me with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

I can't tell…is she asking because she's interested in me romantically, or is she just worried her new friend might get too busy with a girlfriend to hang out with her? Honestly, if it's the former, I'm…not bothered by it.

Still, it feels too soon to complicate our relationship like that. However, I also don't think it's healthy to leave us both in a state of such uncertainty. I think honesty is the best policy here, awkward as it may be.

I sigh deeply, then stand up from my seat on the couch and walk over to her. Nina's face contorts in confusion.

"Well, not necessarily…" (Mizuki)

I crouch down with my hands on the edge of the tub to make sure my gaze meets hers. Nina seems uncertain how to respond, so I take the opportunity to clarify.

"It may be too soon to call it a romantic interest, and I don't know how much of it is our contract, but…I'm quite fond of you. Honestly, I found you very attractive before we even formed the contract." (Mizuki)

Nina's eyes go wide in shock, then her expression turns incredulous.

"Tch…I offered to let you watch me in this bath, Mizuki, and you showed barely any interest! If you found me desirable, why not tell me sooner!?" (Nina)

Nina's voice is thick with annoyance, so I smile at her apologetically.

"I just didn't want to make you uncomfortable! We barely know each other! It seemed like we might have a good friendship starting, and we just made this permanent bond, so I didn't want to risk damaging our relationship. I'm telling you now, though…I decided it was best to make my feelings clear!" (Mizuki)

Nina shakes her head in exasperation, then she looks at me and smiles mischievously.

Without warning, she wraps her arms around my neck, then pulls me toward her in the bath for a kiss. As I begin to feel a little lightheaded, Nina releases me. She sighs contentedly, then looks at me with a huge grin.

"Hmm…does it seem like I'm uncomfortable with you desiring me, Mizuki?" (Nina)

Nina is staring at me with a smug expression, and I can sense immense satisfaction from her. I'm in a daze, still recovering from the kiss.

"Uhm…well, no…I just…" (Mizuki)

I'm happy that we both understand the other's feelings now, but I also need to clarify why I don't want to act on them. Seeming to sense my internal conflict, Nina raises her eyebrows at me questioningly and smiles.

[What is it, Mizuki? You made a point to sort out all my feelings, so tell me what's troubling you.] (Nina)

I can't help but smile back at her, I can sense nothing but sincerity through her message.

[I meant what I said about my commitment to being your friend, and hopefully it's clear now what I think of you…otherwise…but…] (Mizuki)

I hesitate, not knowing the proper way to communicate it. We made a lot of progress tonight and I don't want to undermine it. However, Nina smiles patiently at me, and nods for me to continue.

[…this is sudden. I value that we've met, and I enjoy your company, so I'd rather not complicate our dynamic further for now. Also, while you may feel that you know everything you need to about me, there are still important things about me that you don't know.] (Mizuki)

I hold Nina's gaze to study her reaction. I expect that she may be hurt by this, but instead she just nods agreeably.

[That's fine. Part of the reason I didn't tell you about my…jealousy…is because I valued having a friend. I didn't want to ruin it, so I understand how you feel. Regarding you turning down my advances…I don't mind waiting.] (Nina)

Nina winks at me at the end of her thought transmission, and I only sense acceptance from her. I breathe a sigh of relief.

"Thanks, Nina, I appreciate it. Just let me know next time if you have anything else that's bothering you, okay?" (Mizuki)

She smirks and nods several times. Then, something seems to cross her mind.

"Oh. Well, I wouldn't say it's bothering me, but it made me curious. When you mentioned things that I don't know about you, is it possible you were talking about the planet you came to Azura from?" (Nina)

I go completely stiff, and I feel myself breaking into a cold sweat. Where did that come from!? How long has she suspected or known about that!? What am I going to do about this….?

Sensing my alarm and confusion, a puzzled look passes across Nina's face, but then she bursts out laughing.

"Fufufufufufu…that was it, huh? I can't believe you thought I didn't know, like it was some big secret! You know, I'll warn you not to ever bring it up, but I'm a very old dragon, Mizuki. I'm aware of Azazel sending the occasional lone traveler here, and I've even met some of those humans. Although, none of them were as much fun as you." (Nina)

I'm speechless…I had no idea. With a dumbfounded look on my face, I ask the only question I can think of.

"How long have you known!?" (Mizuki)

Her hands are still wrapped around my neck from the kiss earlier, and she is stroking my hair. She smiles affectionately at me as I ask my question.

"As soon as I saw your eyes up close after our fight, I knew. It was part of what made me so interested in you. Some other time, I want you to tell me all about your home world. Also, don't worry, if you've been trying to keep it a secret, then it's safe with me." (Nina)

Probing her emotions through our connection, I'm relieved. There's not a shred of deceit or concern in her words. In all honesty, it's nice to have someone I don't have secrets from in this world. I think Percivil suspects my situation, but we're far from openly discussing it.

I smile at her appreciatively.

"In that case, I'm glad you know. Thanks, Nina." (Mizuki)

Nina nods approvingly, then pauses before she gives me a mischievous look. Uh oh.

"Hey, Mizuki. With everything that's happened, could I just stay the night with you? I promise I'll keep my hands mostly to myself!" (Nina)

She's looking at me hopefully, but there's still a hint of mischief in her gaze. Good grief, this woman is something else…and what's this about 'mostly'!? That aside, I can easily get rid of her if she breaks her word about the platonic sleeping arrangements.

I sigh deeply in acceptance.

"Yeah, that's fine with me. I'm warning you, though, you try anything, and I will teleport you into the forest alone." (Mizuki)

I fix her with a glare as I respond, so that she knows I'm serious. Seeing my expression, she begins pouting some, but reluctantly nods her agreement.

Fortunately, this fancy inn room has a large bed, so the sleeping arrangements aren't too awkward. True to her word, Nina conjures some modest clothes for herself after exiting the bath, but she groans in protest while doing so.

We climb into the bed, and Nina stays politely on her own side. After quite some time, I'm still awake, and I glance over at her – she's sound asleep. I sense that she is deeply content through our connection.

Looking back up at the ceiling, I reflect on the last few days since arriving in this world. They've been quite eventful.

I'm feeling nervous about what new developments this meeting with the elves tomorrow will bring, but I'm also looking forward to adventuring with Nina afterwards.

Eventually, my thoughts fade away and I fall asleep.