
It takes about 20 minutes to reach the palace in the city center. From afar can already be seen the splendor of the palace inhabited by the emperor and the princess. But as it neared, the splendor of the palace grew clearer and sparkling like a jewel.
Most of the palaces are made of beautiful natural stone and have the power to flow mana. This is what makes the royal palace have the strongest defense in the entire Houou empire. Of course, apart from the residence of the emperor, but also as a shelter in case of emergency and no other choice.
According to the records, the use of the palace as a refuge has been done for 4 times in the period of the empire Houou standing. And although it could be said that the problem last night was a pretty big problem, but when viewed from the scale of the battle in the past, it was nothing much.
"Whenever I go to the palace, I always think it's big."
"You ever?"
"Yes. Often times. Riana and I are good friends, after all. I've sometimes been invited to play with him."
"That's what it looks like."
While chatting some of the less important things, they finally arrived. The maids opened the door and they were greeted by a luxurious carpet and dozens of maids and Holy Knights lined up neatly.
"Over-exaggerated welcome."
It was the comment that Kuro first spoke when he saw the welcome on them.
"The emperor ordered we should welcome the hero who has saved the capital. It's not a big deal."
One of the servants told Kuro. Although it looks like an ordinary maid, but the maid who answered Kuro was one of the butlers in the palace.
Everything is really luxurious and excessive.
"The old man is still like that. Laila, come."
Laila put her hand into Kuro's arm slit and they joined hands towards the palace like a famous celebrity.
That's when another train came and dropped another invitation.
"I never imagined I'd be invited to the palace. I may be dreaming."
"Don't embarrass me. You are indeed a village boy who may never be invited to the palace for the second time. So be thankful."
"Don't equate myself with you, Knox. And this is the first time I've heard you've been to the palace."
"I don't have to tell you everything I've been through. Who are you?"
Jinn just sighed.
Then the two began to step onto the red carpet following Kuro and Laila.
Just like Kuro, the two were dressed neatly. It's just that Knox didn't button up his suit.
Not long after, the guests came to change until everything arrived at the appointed time.
The party room was in one of the great halls of the palace. Even so, you could say this is only used for small parties.
There were fewer invitations than expected. But it could be seen clearly that the invitation present was everyone involved in the fight.
Charlmilia is seen wearing a blue dress with no straps so that she accentuates her large chest. In addition, the blue rose matching the dress makes it not inferior to Laila.
The imperial princesses Riana and Victoria were also seen in clean white dresses with jewel ornaments in various places. And I don't know why Arthuria was also seen together with the two.
"What does the chick have to do with the princess?"
"Don't you know that sister is Victoria's ex-fiancee?"
The story of their engagement was quite shocking at that time, but there was other news that was no less shocking.
"former?"
"so. Princess Victoria didn't like weak men, which is why she refused. But that doesn't mean she's weak, it's just that she can't beat Victoria's daughter. Then because this was the emperor's decision, Victoria's daughter could not change it or make the emperor withdraw his decision except in one way, which was to ask when winning the Battle War. That was 2 years ago, but until now we're still in close contact."
Not only did she manage to win the Battle War and use the prize to break the engagement, Victoria showed that she was one of the strongest young witches in the Houou empire. At his young age, many considered him to have talent on par with the Holy Maiden Maria.
"Two years ago..."
"It's weird 'cause you don't know this."
"I don't know, but I don't care."
The two then observe whoever comes to the party.
Electra and Aldest were also invited. Unlike usual, Electra currently does not disturb the two and chooses to chat with his acquaintances.
From the knowledge that Kuro had, they were Imperial Knights. More precisely the Imperial Knight's. Naturally, even though the Imperial Knights were the strongest forces, their identities were quite a secret. It has to do with the safety of their family members.
"I hope Yui can come too."
"Don't ask for the impossible. Right now you know what he's doing, right?"
After the fight, the only impact Yui received was fatigue from running out of mana. You could say it is a rapid increase and no doubt that the training is paying off.
But because of that, he felt that the training he did was not enough. When she saw the power that Laila showed was so great and amazing, she realized that she was far behind. But the most important of all is Laila's attitude which has shown that she is an adult.
Both of these things made Yui feel defeated. He promises himself that he will win Kuro's heart, but he can't do it with his current strength.
Then after his strength recovered, he decided to return to the village of the Blad clan to train once more. At least he wanted to be able to use Dragon Gear.
As an older brother, Kuro cannot prevent or hinder Yui's good intentions. Indeed, when compared to Diana and Charlmilia, Yui's development using the power of the Dragon King was arguably quite slow.
"Yes I know. I just hope he doesn't push himself."
Hearing that, Kuro smiled.
"Don't worry. I'm sure he's fine."
Not long after, the sound of notification was heard.
"The emperor's majesty has arrived" said someone loudly.
Everyone focused on the corner of the room. Along with the sound of footsteps, an old man looking like he was in his 40s appeared.
His hair was white and his beard grew quite dense as a sign of age that was no longer young. The blue eyes of the sea are a legacy of her mother. But the most important of all is the crown on his head.
He was the emperor of the Houou empire, Sei Yamato.
As he entered, everyone lowered their heads in salute. Even Kuro who could be said to not easily bow his head to others, he did it easily.
"That's enough."
Everyone raised their heads again after Sei gave the order. His voice alone showed his charisma and strength as emperor.
Then Sei stood up to perform the opening ceremony.
"Thank you for coming the heroes who have saved the capital from the enemy. This party I'm holding in addition to giving a big thank you to the hero who is willing to risk his life for the sake of this country, but also wants to give a gift to all involved."
Sei stopped for a moment. He then continued his speech.
"As I mentioned in the invitation, this party is a small party. Not that I don't want to make a big party, but for some reason, none of that can happen. As emperor, I apologize for this matter."
Without hesitation Sei lowered his head at the invited guest. This is quite surprising because the emperor is the most important person in the country, but Sei is famous for not hesitating to apologize and be generous.
In addition to his nature, but also because he wanted to thank the party who helped his mother. If he doesn't do it, he'll be a bad boy.
As everything became quiet due to the expected action, Sei again raised his head and continued.
"All right, you can start the party. The main event will start at 10 p.m. I hope you're impatient."
Sei then gave a sign to someone who was beside him. Shortly after, Sei sat down and the sound of music was heard from the whole room.
The party has begun.
Kuro and Laila picked up some soft drinks and went to the veranda of the palace to enjoy the night just the two of them.
"As usual he's not good at talking."
"Kuro, don't get too familiar. You'll get punished for being disrespectful."
"Don't worry. The most important thing is to enjoy until the main event. Well I just hope he doesn't do anything weird."
Laila smiled slightly.
"I don't think that's something to worry about. He's an emperor who lived for hundreds of years, I'm sure he can't do anything weird."
"You just don't know who he is yet."
The two toast and start a party in their own world
"Chelle..."
There was only one person who called him that.
"Riana."
Riana approached and hugged Laila. As for Kuro just smiling at each other.
"I'd love to see you, but you're always gone. Well.. I understand that you always wanted to be with Kuro, but I want you to make time for your little friend."
"ahahahahah.. I want to meet you too. In this world it might be only about a week, but I haven't seen you in two years. I'm so happy."
"I think you're still mad at me considering what I did to you guys."
Since Riana forbade the two to interfere, neither of them had the chance to save Lic sooner. But if they did so with old strength, perhaps they would fail.
"No. I'm not mad. It became an opportunity for us to gather strength so that we could save Lic."
"....about Lic, how is he doing now?"
Riana showed an anxious face.
"He's good. Now it's just a matter of waiting for the time she comes to her senses."
"...so..."
Lic news is good, but also bad. But given what happened during the incident, this is natural.
"Keeping Lic aside, why are you bothering us?" cut Kuro with a tinge.
Unlike Laila, Kuro shows his displeasure towards Riana. The reason was not only because Riana was blocking them, but also took the wrong decision when attacking. Because of that mistake they lost Leon.
"Kuro, I think your possessiveness has improved a lot lately. Is this because of Riku?"
"I just don't want to see you fight by risking your life like that anymore. I admit you've gotten stronger, but I'm honestly ..."
"I understand. Take it easy, this time I'm not going anywhere."
"Chelle..."
"Kurou.."
Without anyone knowing, the two re-entered their world. They both want to kiss.
"Ehem..."
Riana wanted to return the two to the real world, but it didn't work. Even the two kissed affectionately and arguably it was an exciting adult kiss.
"City, Kuro..."
Having no choice, Riana decided to pat Laila on the shoulder.
"Ah.. Excuse me. You here, Riana?"
"I've been here since. I didn't expect you to forget me that fast."
Laila just laughed wryly as if she was just joking.
Unfortunately, he didn't.
Then the party went on quite smoothly.
Knox and Jinn enjoyed the meal while looking at the few people dancing in the middle of the hall.
Between them, Arthuria and Victoria dance to a calm and melodious rhythm of music. Interestingly, Victoria was very happy, while Arthuria put on a complicated face. For those who know the relationship between the two, it must be hard to dance with the person who has rejected you raw.
While others like Electra, she enjoys booze with Aldest. The two seemed to be chatting on a serious topic.
To Otome, he drank himself in the corner of the room like a friendless man.
The emperor just sat in the grab-sit enjoying the event without doing any meaningful activities. But shortly afterwards Victoria came to invite the emperor to dance. It was a very warm event, but Victoria was known as a cheerful and passionate person. This is something that happens quite often.
Lastly, Charlmilia was chatting with Alva and Alvi who happened to be invited as well. Although they did not fight directly, they were also involved.
Then time passed and the time for the main event had arrived. Everyone regrouped and focused on the main event, which was the award.
The first to be called was Charlmilia. This is surprising, but for those who know the truth, Charlmilia is arguably the most meritorious person in the fight against Mary.
In addition to stopping the Holy Arrow Salvation, he had also managed to repel Maria. You could even say he almost beat her. And most importantly, without her help, Laila would not be able to stop Lic taking over Maria's body.
"Charlmilia Ven Cellvain. Even though you are young, your achievements are beyond doubt. With my power as the emperor of this country, I grant you the title of Princess (Princess)."
Everyone present was shocked by the title Charlmilia had obtained.
The title not only made Charlmilia have a high position in the military, but also have the same position as the emperor's daughter. No, it's more appropriate if he becomes one of them.
"Wait a minute, Your Honor. That title I don't think is appropriate for me."
But-the
"Everyone knows that Riana, Victoria and Norn are my adopted children. If I add one or two more it's not a problem. And although I made you an adopted son, that doesn't mean I want you to get involved in politics. If you want, I'll even order you not to be involved in the matter. The reason I gave you this title, other than that I want you to continue to devote yourself to this country, but I want you to be the brother of the three of them. As you know, they get lonely sometimes. This is better than them falling for a guy who likes to seduce girls."
Hearing the last sentence, Charlmilia wanted to laugh because she knew who was meant. He finally understood and decided not to refuse.
"Charlmilia, did you receive that title?"
"It's an honor for me."
With a loud applause, Charlmilia received proof of the title she received, a crown jewel.
"From now on you are the princess of this land and at the same time their brother. The official announcement will be made later. Then regarding your parents, I already told them about this first. For other matters we will talk about later, in private. Youunderstand?"
"...I understand."
Then Charlmilia returned to her original place, but this time was in the ranks of Riana and Victoria.
Perhaps because both of them already knew, both of them did not show their rejection or surprise. It's more appropriate if they're happy to have a new brother.
Then the ceremony continued. The one who was called later was Laila.
Just like Charlmilia, Laila lowered her head and bowed her knees like she had received an order.
"California. Since I have known you since childhood, I am very happy with the achievements you have achieved. I'm very impressed with your fight. I actually want to raise you to be my adopted daughter, after all you and Riana are like brothers. Unfortunately, I thought you'd turn it down as much as I pressed it, didn't you?"
"Uncle really knows what I'm thinking. I'm really grateful for that."
"Then I have trouble giving gifts. What if I'm going to grant you one wish as long as I accept it, how is it?"
Everyone was surprised by what Sei said. However, granting a request can be considered careless action.
But for Laila, it was a great opportunity that would not come twice.
"Then, I want Uncle to stop all investigation and desire to seize Lic, I mean Izriva. I am his parents after all. I can't let him suffer continuously."
"..."
Laila's request was a difficult one to grant given the danger Izriva posed.
But-the
"I heard you already have a one-year-old son, isn't that enough for you?"
All who heard it wanted to scream, yet they held back.
"What do you mean, Uncle?"
"Izriva is only a spirit, not your flesh and blood. You should be able to tell the difference, am I wrong?"
"..."
"You must realize as much and as much as you love her, it won't change the fact that in-"
"Sorry for being presumptuous, but if Uncle says anything bad about Lic again, I won't forgive Uncle. No matter what in the eyes of others, Lic is our daughter. I'm not gonna let anyone denounce him, not even Uncle."
Laila's words were a sassy and insulting one. If he doesn't apologize immediately, he'll get punished.
But is that the right thing?
Everyone knows what Laila's doing is proof that Laila really thinks of Lic as her daughter. He won't forgive anyone, even Sei.
Then if Laila used her power, then maybe she could destroy Houou empire just because she was unhappy. Although no one imagined it happening.
"Cum.."
But Sei only smiled as if he had guessed what Laila had said. It was more appropriate if he lured Laila to say so. The originally tense atmosphere again became light.
"I understand. You are a mother. Where there may be a mother who forgives the person who has insulted her daughter. Alright, since I promised, I will let Izriva be in your hands. But you must know, if you become a mother, then you must also take responsibility for what their children do."
"thank you. I will not forget your kindness. As her mother I will educate her well with Riku."
"I'm looking forward to it."
Laila's turn was over with something unexpected.
Then the awards show continued.
Knox and Jinn get a medal for their courage against the enemy and simultaneously succeed in destroying the enemy laboratory. This was quite a feat for magic school students.
In addition to medals, both are promised to get important positions after they graduate. And depending on the achievements they will get next, maybe they will get a higher position.
After both, it was Aldest and Electra's turn. Both also received medals. For Electra this is just an additional medal. As for Aldest, he also gained an important position, namely the general. Honey, he refused. He chose to be the commander of the Knights in the city of Areshia. Fortunately, despite refusing, the offer was forever valid. So no need to worry.
Other awards continue. Arthuria gets a medal and a request. Arthuria's request surprised everyone, the desire to fight with Victoria. You could say it's a kind of revenge fight.
Because Victoria agreed, then the fight will be done three days later after both conditions recover.
To Otome, he only got a medal and a grimoire. Otome did not get any more awards given his status as a Knight of Rounds. And why he was given a grimoire, it's because Otome is a scientist. There is no more precious gift than that.
Then at the last award, of course, the one who was called was Kuro.
Everyone immediately focused on Kuro who was not only known as the Witch Reaper, but also a descendant of the Demon King.
Defeating Maria and becoming the hero of the Houou empire that once defeated the Demon King sounded quite ironic. But Kuro is not the Demon King. His actions this time were more like an atonement for the sins of his ancestors.
"Kuro Kagami."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"Given who you are, this is a very proud. No matter who your predecessor is, you've been devoting yourself to this country all along. There aren't many people like you. That's why you deserve something worth it. Which is the problem, what should I give you?"
"..."
Money is not a problem because he has enough money to buy a small country. Medals are just a show. Power is not needed. He also has a high position (as a large business owner). Lover, already have and the best.
What is less than Kuro?
Sei has never been this busy giving someone credit.
When confused, she remembered something and glanced at Riana.
"Ehem... Kuro Kagami, because of your service to save this country, I will give my daughter, Riana as your second wife."
"............HA?"
The one who reacted the most quickly was Riana. Everything froze like it was struck by lightning.
Then after a while...
"Wait a minute. I have a boyfriend and two children. What do you mean give that voracious princess to me? If you're joking, this is a farce that's not funny at all, Sei."
Not only standing from his position, but Kuro also brought his face closer with emotion.
"A-Kuro, this is the nicest present I've thought of for you. Aren't you happy to have a beautiful wife like Riana?"
"That's why I said stop your joke. As emperor you can't do anything you want because you're confused about choosing a gift. Why don't you give me a wish or something? I didn't think your brain was so shallow."
"the shallow? I'm the emperor, don't ever call me that or I'll punish you."
"Don't switch the conversation. You know what you say could kill me? Quickly pull it back before I get killed by my wife."
"Killed? Whatchu mean? He looks happy."
"Huh?"
Kuro looked back. And just as Sei had said, Laila was completely unshakable and chose to drink wine gracefully.
"..."
For some reason Kuro feels confused, but also feels scared because of Laila's nature.
"Ummm... Kuro?"
While being confused by Laila's behavior, Kuro is surprised by Riana who arrives behind him.
"What?"
"I-I didn't know you were that familiar with my father. Do you really know each other?"
Sei and Kuro glanced at each other. Because they get too carried away, they unconsciously talk like childhood friends. No, more than that.
"Ehem... Actually I've known Kuro since the baby. That's why we're so close."
"Ke*gag. Don't say a clear lie. Let me explain it. I actually had her identity exposed when she was undercover, and from then on we knew her pretty well."
The atmosphere suddenly became heavy. The pressure came from the servants and Holy Knights escorting the emperor.
All this time they continued to escort the emperor wherever they went, but they did not expect that they had failed. And since when does the emperor like to sneak around?
"Look at you, Ban*sat. You don't know how hard it is to keep quiet running away from them. Now what am I supposed to do? I can't go to that place anymore freely. "
"That's not my problem. You'd better pull your word out and let me live quietly with Laila."
"will not. I might have withdrawn the decision I made. Besides did Riana refuse?"
The two of them looked at Riana simultaneously.
"Er... "
Perhaps out of embarrassment, Riana could not answer smoothly.
"Look, he didn't refuse. Besides, I heard that you kissed her. Think of it as a responsibility."
"Huh? Are you serious? Don't make me do that just because I kissed her."
"The point is you'll still be engaged to Riana. Besides, he doesn't seem to mind either."
"Laila?"
Kuro turned to Laila who made the decision.
"Eh... Whahuh? If it could reduce my burden at night, I'd be happy."
"Laila, are you serious?"
Kuro was deathly pale from not expecting Laila to easily say that.
"Well.. Instead I will stab you ten times." said Laila with a big smile.
Not only Kuro, but Sei, even Riana also froze because she did not expect the dark side of Laila to rise.
"Sey, how about we talk somewhere more private?"
"I agree. We better go to my room."
Both nodded compactly.
"Everything. Please continue the party without us." said Sei. "I'll go first to discuss a serious matter with this ke*arat."
"Laila, wait a minute. And please get rid of that Scarflare."
Laila simply smiled with Scarflare hovering above her head.
Then Kuro and Sei leave the party which is now like a funeral.
"...Knox, who exactly is Kuro?"
"Who cares about that. What I'm thinking about now is how do we stop the girls who are ready to go berserk?"
"We only have the choice to run."
Knox and Jinn just broke out in cold sweat at the pressure of the girls who were so strong.
Laila with Scarflare floated around her. He shows he will fight anyone who dares to approach Kuro.
Riana no less showed a white aura as a sign that she was ready to use holy element magic.
For Charlmilia, although she was a little confused as to what had happened, she now understood that there was a new rival.
A spark occurred between the three and made it seem as if they were doing an invisible fight.
Meanwhile, the one who saw the incident
"Ahahahahaha he's such an interesting guy, isn't he Arthur."
"Victoria, I know what you're thinking. And I know you have bad intentions when you smile like that."
Victoria smiled broadly filled with ecstasy as if finding a new toy.
"Arthur, if you keep acting like that, you won't win a girl's heart. You sometimes have to know what women want, not your own."
Arthuria could only sigh deeply.
(I don't want to hear that from the person who rejected me.)