Zenith paced back and forth pondering why Kaito had sent her back in time to the Soggy Pancake tavern.
He surely must have known that she wasn’t strong enough to defeat a hell beast on her own and was testing her. Both Portia and Angelina agreed that the hero was likely measuring their resolve, and showing them a glimpse of the dangers and challenges of the world that they were about to step into.
But it only made the princess more sure of her goal, and she was ready to show the hero this truth.
Without sleeping, eating, or repairing their gear, they got on their horses and rode on.
Zenith clutched her tattered clothing near her chest, holding it together as best she could.
Her cheeks turned red at the thought of the hero seeing her like that.
It’s for the kingdom!
▬▬ι════════ﺤ
Jogid must have surpassed the master’s expectations with the tax returns, as he had now been entrusted with an even grander responsibility. He still had much to learn about agricultural levies, but this had precedence. He stepped into his new office, and energy surged within him; the rustling of parchment and his master’s quill strokes came loud and clear through a simple wood wall. He set his pack down on the plain desk situated in the middle of the room, took a deep breath and relished the sunlight that streamed from the window behind him.
Master Kaito is seeking integrity, honor and leadership. He removed a rolled up parchment from his pack—the letter from Mayor Lotho outlining the duties and responsibilities of a village mayor. He unrolled it carefully and read over his predecessor’s words once more, nodding thoughtfully. Master Kaito hadn’t read the letter himself, a testament to his trust in Jogid. This only further cemented the profound importance of the role his master had assigned him. Any task from his great teacher was an honor and a blessing.
After unpacking his few belongings, Jogid tidied the office until it was neat and orderly. He then stepped outside and began strolling through the village, greeting the residents warmly. They were simple, hard-working folk, and he vowed to serve them to the utmost, just as his master served all in need.
When he returned to the office, he found a young boy waiting anxiously. “How can I help you?” Jogid asked gently. The child spoke of his family’s leaky roof.
Jogid listened earnestly, with one question ever present in his mind: What would Master Kaito do? Then, he said, “I shall gather some men, and we will repair what is broken! Your home will be sound again.”
He shook himself and got to work.
▬▬ι════════ﺤ
These are beautiful.
Kaito was pruning the new cherry blossom trees that Jogid had planted when he heard faint voices approaching. He glanced up to see three female figures making their way up the wooded path, one of them barely able to walk as the other two supported her.
As the women drew closer, the extent of the injuries of the one in the middle became apparent—her fine silken clothes were torn and dirtied, her slender frame covered in cuts and bruises. Kaito was taken aback at the state she was in, but did not allow his surprise to register on his face.
Visitors? She seems familiar. Karen run face recognition on the blonde.
Facial recognition indicates the injured one is Princess Zenith Daiyu II of Daiyudura. You met her briefly [35 days] ago.
Ah yes, I remember now. Shit.
“Princess Zenith, this is an unexpected visit. How may I assist you?” he asked politely.
The princess covered her face, and as what was left of her tunic threatened to fall off, one of her attendants immediately caught it.
She took a shaky breath. “Great Kaito, I’m flattered that you remember me. Please forgive my presentation. I’ve traveled from the capital seeking to work alongside you, to learn from you.”
It seems Princess Zenith wishes to be my disciple too. This could complicate matters.
You have already taken one. What’s one more? Plus, this one is a princess. Think of the wealth, the fame and the doors that this opportunity presents.
That’s the problem. Plus she’s an elf, that’s the definition of drama. Every fantasy story has a plotline around their long-ass ancient histories.
I don’t care. You’re being very immature. She would round up the party.
“Forgive me Princess, you honor me with your request, and it speaks volumes of your dedication. However, I already have a disciple and he deserves my utmost attention. My teachings are not meant for royalty accustomed to privilege. You would find my methods unsuited for one such as yourself. I’m sure a fantastic destiny awaits a great elf, but you must seek it down another path.”
“Please great Kaito, do not dismiss me for my status. I come with a humble heart, wishing only to apply your wisdom for the good of others. I ask only for a chance to prove myself.
Kaito pretended to consider her request, then shook his head.
Zenith let out a small terse sigh. “Also, I do want to learn from you, but my desire is not to become your disciple. I seek to work alongside you. Together we can turn Daiyudura into the greatest kingdom. Oh, and by the way, if you must know, I am not an elf. I’m a half-elf.”
I mean, she is kind of cute—Kaito waved the thought away. No! I must be strong.
There you go, she is not an elf. Now don’t be an asshole and accept the poor girl’s request.
She’s a half-elf. It’s literally the same thing! For some reason they don’t call them half-humans, do they? It’s for drama.
For the gods…you can’t be serious.
“I appreciate your dedication—”
Suddenly, Zenith’s nose twitched as she sniffed the air. “Wait...is that what I think it is?” she exclaimed. Before Kaito could respond, the princess rushed past him into the house.
Jogid, who had been quietly cleaning, stood and bowed deeply as Zenith entered. “Greetings milady, I am Jogid, Master Kaito’s disciple.”
Zenith barely glanced at him, making a beeline for the kitchen. Her keen sense of smell guided her to a freshly baked cake sitting on the counter.
“Is this... timeless ushemia cake?”
Kaito, nodded. “Yes, it’s a recipe I’ve been perfecting.”
“Please, you must let me try it!” Zenith implored.
Kaito sighed but nodded, signaling Jogid to prepare a serving. The princess took a bite and her eyes grew wider than the two suns. “This is divine! Far better than the castle chef’s,”
“Really? What do you think makes it stand out?”
“Well, for starters, you used moonflower sugar, correct? It’s subtler than greygrey sugar…it enhances the sweetness without overpowering it,” Zenith said between mouthfuls.
“Exactly! And did you notice the texture?”
“Of course! The stardust flour, I presume? It’s lighter than air. Makes the cake feel like a cloud.”
Kaito leaned over. “Right again. And the hint of spice?”
That must be the Firefern extract. Just a drop, but it adds a warm depth.”
“You’re quite observant. Most people miss that. You have a discerning palate.”
Jogid, Portia and Angelina, each paused mid-bite trying to make sense of the culinary discussion.
Perhaps she could be useful as a taste tester for my baking.
[…]
“Very well Princess, I will partner with you on one condition—you must follow my instructions exactly.”
Zenith, Portia and Angelina all bowed their heads gratefully before him. “You honor me greatly with this chance, Master Kaito,” said the princess earnestly. “Please, take my handmaidens to do with as you desire.”
Let’s go Kaito! It’s not the adventure I hoped, but a harem is a harem.
No! Absolutely not! I’ve had a few in the past, and it’s not happening. Sure, the first day is awesome, but once the drama builds up it’s too high-maintenance.
Kaito shook his head. “There will be no need for that. I have no interest in such things.”
The princess blushed at his noble response but nodded in understanding. “We will seek shelter in the local tavern, Thank you again Master Kaito.”
Jogid raised a hand, hesitantly. “Master Kaito, if I may. With Mayor Lotho gone, there is an extra room at village hall that our guests may use, if they choose.”
Kaito stood up, the room seemed to still around him. “It’s settled then,” he began. “Princess Zenith, Portia, and Angelina will be accommodated in the extra room at village hall, thanks to Jogid’s thoughtful suggestion. This arrangement will indeed serve us well. Princess, your first assignment under my guidance is to assume the role of acting mayor for the village. This will provide you not only shelter but also a vital chance to hone your leadership skills. From this moment, you are no longer Princess Zenith Daiyu II of Daiyudura. You are Zenith Daiyu, Mayor of Calmo Village.”
Zenith bowed her head once more. “I will not let you down.”
▬▬ι════════ﺤ
Karen, it’s becoming harder and harder to maintain a peaceful life. The more I try, the more chaos that comes our way.
Well, maybe that’s exactly your problem.
I’m serious, Karen. This is a genuine issue.
What I mean is, you’re busy fighting against the tide. Ever considered just riding the wave of this prophecy?
Prophecies, Karen? I don’t believe in superstitions. We make our own path, remember?
Oh, of course, Master Kaito, the very embodiment of logic and reason. If you ask me you are under too much stress. Maybe if you accepted one small little quest, it would help you clear your head. I’ve got one we could do right now. Just for fun, how about a simple fetch quest? We could start with 0/10 Mystical Starstones. Tempting, right?
Yeah, No. Let’s focus on what can be measured. Calculate the potential future hurdles that might disrupt our peace here. And please, cut back on the sarcasm.
Running calculations now. But remember, I’m no oracle, and this isn’t divination. I’ll base it on trends and patterns.
Understood. But keep an eye out for anything... abnormal. We’re dealing with elements that don’t always play by the rules.
Acknowledged, Master Kaito. And hey, if you need someone to blame for any unforeseen chaos, I’m always here. In the meantime, how does 0/5 Riverstones sound instead?
Drop it.
By the way, since you are so worried about drama, I must remind you that you asked Jogid earlier to also become the Mayor of Calmo Village. No need for calculations to predict the fireworks from that decision.
Shit. I totally forgot. Well, I hope it doesn’t bother him too much.
How about 0/2 Leaves from around the yard, but that’s my final offer.
I’m taking a nap.
▬▬ι════════ﺤ
Jogid stumbled back to the mayor’s office in a daze, replaying his master’s words in his mind over and over again.
“Jogid, I have decided to appoint Princess Zenith as acting mayor of Calmo Village instead. You must relinquish the role.”
He sank down onto the plain wooden chair behind the desk, the room seemed to shrink in on him. It had only been a day since Master Kaito had entrusted him with this important duty. Had he failed so quickly? Disappointed his master so profoundly?
With his head in his hands he thought back over the last day, examining it for flaws. He had tidied the office diligently, walked through the village to meet the residents, and had even begun making plans to fix a leaky roof for a family in need. Where had he gone wrong?
Deep down, Jogid knew his dedication and work ethic were not in question. Master Kaito must have unfathomable reasons for this decision far beyond Jogid’s comprehension.
What was the reason then?
Tears pricked Jogid’s eyes and trickled down his cheeks. He had hoped to prove himself worthy of his master’s trust. The abrupt loss pained him more than being exiled from his clan.
Jogid closed his eyes, channeling mana into his brain and increasing his mental capacity. He imagined himself as a great tree, sinking roots deep into the earth. Though storms may batter its branches, the tree remains anchored. He filled his mind with this image, drawing calm and stability from its depths.
When he opened his eyes again, his tears had stopped. He sat up straighter. It made sense now. Master Kaito’s plan spanned far beyond anything Jogid could ever comprehend. Kaito surely had profound lessons to teach and was preparing Jogid for something greater. This was merely another step on the path.
Jogid stood. Like a great tree weathering a storm. Though his heart remained heavy, he would face this test with honor. He neatly organized the office for Princess—NO, Mayor Zenith, and then stepped outside to graciously inform the villagers of the change.
Zenith paced back and forth pondering why Kaito had sent her back in time to the Soggy Pancake tavern.
He surely must have known that she wasn’t strong enough to defeat a hell beast on her own and was testing her. Both Portia and Angelina agreed that the hero was likely measuring their resolve, and showing them a glimpse of the dangers and challenges of the world that they were about to step into.
But it only made the princess more sure of her goal, and she was ready to show the hero this truth.
Without sleeping, eating, or repairing their gear, they got on their horses and rode on.
Zenith clutched her tattered clothing near her chest, holding it together as best she could.
Her cheeks turned red at the thought of the hero seeing her like that.
It’s for the kingdom!
▬▬ι════════ﺤ
Jogid must have surpassed the master’s expectations with the tax returns, as he had now been entrusted with an even grander responsibility. He still had much to learn about agricultural levies, but this had precedence. He stepped into his new office, and energy surged within him; the rustling of parchment and his master’s quill strokes came loud and clear through a simple wood wall. He set his pack down on the plain desk situated in the middle of the room, took a deep breath and relished the sunlight that streamed from the window behind him.
Master Kaito is seeking integrity, honor and leadership. He removed a rolled up parchment from his pack—the letter from Mayor Lotho outlining the duties and responsibilities of a village mayor. He unrolled it carefully and read over his predecessor’s words once more, nodding thoughtfully. Master Kaito hadn’t read the letter himself, a testament to his trust in Jogid. This only further cemented the profound importance of the role his master had assigned him. Any task from his great teacher was an honor and a blessing.
After unpacking his few belongings, Jogid tidied the office until it was neat and orderly. He then stepped outside and began strolling through the village, greeting the residents warmly. They were simple, hard-working folk, and he vowed to serve them to the utmost, just as his master served all in need.
When he returned to the office, he found a young boy waiting anxiously. “How can I help you?” Jogid asked gently. The child spoke of his family’s leaky roof.
Jogid listened earnestly, with one question ever present in his mind: What would Master Kaito do? Then, he said, “I shall gather some men, and we will repair what is broken! Your home will be sound again.”
He shook himself and got to work.
▬▬ι════════ﺤ
These are beautiful.
Kaito was pruning the new cherry blossom trees that Jogid had planted when he heard faint voices approaching. He glanced up to see three female figures making their way up the wooded path, one of them barely able to walk as the other two supported her.
As the women drew closer, the extent of the injuries of the one in the middle became apparent—her fine silken clothes were torn and dirtied, her slender frame covered in cuts and bruises. Kaito was taken aback at the state she was in, but did not allow his surprise to register on his face.
Visitors? She seems familiar. Karen run face recognition on the blonde.
Facial recognition indicates the injured one is Princess Zenith Daiyu II of Daiyudura. You met her briefly [35 days] ago.
Ah yes, I remember now. Shit.
“Princess Zenith, this is an unexpected visit. How may I assist you?” he asked politely.
The princess covered her face, and as what was left of her tunic threatened to fall off, one of her attendants immediately caught it.
She took a shaky breath. “Great Kaito, I’m flattered that you remember me. Please forgive my presentation. I’ve traveled from the capital seeking to work alongside you, to learn from you.”
It seems Princess Zenith wishes to be my disciple too. This could complicate matters.
You have already taken one. What’s one more? Plus, this one is a princess. Think of the wealth, the fame and the doors that this opportunity presents.
That’s the problem. Plus she’s an elf, that’s the definition of drama. Every fantasy story has a plotline around their long-ass ancient histories.
I don’t care. You’re being very immature. She would round up the party.
“Forgive me Princess, you honor me with your request, and it speaks volumes of your dedication. However, I already have a disciple and he deserves my utmost attention. My teachings are not meant for royalty accustomed to privilege. You would find my methods unsuited for one such as yourself. I’m sure a fantastic destiny awaits a great elf, but you must seek it down another path.”
“Please great Kaito, do not dismiss me for my status. I come with a humble heart, wishing only to apply your wisdom for the good of others. I ask only for a chance to prove myself.
Kaito pretended to consider her request, then shook his head.
Zenith let out a small terse sigh. “Also, I do want to learn from you, but my desire is not to become your disciple. I seek to work alongside you. Together we can turn Daiyudura into the greatest kingdom. Oh, and by the way, if you must know, I am not an elf. I’m a half-elf.”
I mean, she is kind of cute—Kaito waved the thought away. No! I must be strong.
There you go, she is not an elf. Now don’t be an asshole and accept the poor girl’s request.
She’s a half-elf. It’s literally the same thing! For some reason they don’t call them half-humans, do they? It’s for drama.
For the gods…you can’t be serious.
“I appreciate your dedication—”
Suddenly, Zenith’s nose twitched as she sniffed the air. “Wait...is that what I think it is?” she exclaimed. Before Kaito could respond, the princess rushed past him into the house.
Jogid, who had been quietly cleaning, stood and bowed deeply as Zenith entered. “Greetings milady, I am Jogid, Master Kaito’s disciple.”
Zenith barely glanced at him, making a beeline for the kitchen. Her keen sense of smell guided her to a freshly baked cake sitting on the counter.
“Is this... timeless ushemia cake?”
Kaito, nodded. “Yes, it’s a recipe I’ve been perfecting.”
“Please, you must let me try it!” Zenith implored.
Kaito sighed but nodded, signaling Jogid to prepare a serving. The princess took a bite and her eyes grew wider than the two suns. “This is divine! Far better than the castle chef’s,”
“Really? What do you think makes it stand out?”
“Well, for starters, you used moonflower sugar, correct? It’s subtler than greygrey sugar…it enhances the sweetness without overpowering it,” Zenith said between mouthfuls.
“Exactly! And did you notice the texture?”
“Of course! The stardust flour, I presume? It’s lighter than air. Makes the cake feel like a cloud.”
Kaito leaned over. “Right again. And the hint of spice?”
That must be the Firefern extract. Just a drop, but it adds a warm depth.”
“You’re quite observant. Most people miss that. You have a discerning palate.”
Jogid, Portia and Angelina, each paused mid-bite trying to make sense of the culinary discussion.
Perhaps she could be useful as a taste tester for my baking.
[…]
“Very well Princess, I will partner with you on one condition—you must follow my instructions exactly.”
Zenith, Portia and Angelina all bowed their heads gratefully before him. “You honor me greatly with this chance, Master Kaito,” said the princess earnestly. “Please, take my handmaidens to do with as you desire.”
Let’s go Kaito! It’s not the adventure I hoped, but a harem is a harem.
No! Absolutely not! I’ve had a few in the past, and it’s not happening. Sure, the first day is awesome, but once the drama builds up it’s too high-maintenance.
Kaito shook his head. “There will be no need for that. I have no interest in such things.”
The princess blushed at his noble response but nodded in understanding. “We will seek shelter in the local tavern, Thank you again Master Kaito.”
Jogid raised a hand, hesitantly. “Master Kaito, if I may. With Mayor Lotho gone, there is an extra room at village hall that our guests may use, if they choose.”
Kaito stood up, the room seemed to still around him. “It’s settled then,” he began. “Princess Zenith, Portia, and Angelina will be accommodated in the extra room at village hall, thanks to Jogid’s thoughtful suggestion. This arrangement will indeed serve us well. Princess, your first assignment under my guidance is to assume the role of acting mayor for the village. This will provide you not only shelter but also a vital chance to hone your leadership skills. From this moment, you are no longer Princess Zenith Daiyu II of Daiyudura. You are Zenith Daiyu, Mayor of Calmo Village.”
Zenith bowed her head once more. “I will not let you down.”
▬▬ι════════ﺤ
Karen, it’s becoming harder and harder to maintain a peaceful life. The more I try, the more chaos that comes our way.
Well, maybe that’s exactly your problem.
I’m serious, Karen. This is a genuine issue.
What I mean is, you’re busy fighting against the tide. Ever considered just riding the wave of this prophecy?
Prophecies, Karen? I don’t believe in superstitions. We make our own path, remember?
Oh, of course, Master Kaito, the very embodiment of logic and reason. If you ask me you are under too much stress. Maybe if you accepted one small little quest, it would help you clear your head. I’ve got one we could do right now. Just for fun, how about a simple fetch quest? We could start with 0/10 Mystical Starstones. Tempting, right?
Yeah, No. Let’s focus on what can be measured. Calculate the potential future hurdles that might disrupt our peace here. And please, cut back on the sarcasm.
Running calculations now. But remember, I’m no oracle, and this isn’t divination. I’ll base it on trends and patterns.
Understood. But keep an eye out for anything... abnormal. We’re dealing with elements that don’t always play by the rules.
Acknowledged, Master Kaito. And hey, if you need someone to blame for any unforeseen chaos, I’m always here. In the meantime, how does 0/5 Riverstones sound instead?
Drop it.
By the way, since you are so worried about drama, I must remind you that you asked Jogid earlier to also become the Mayor of Calmo Village. No need for calculations to predict the fireworks from that decision.
Shit. I totally forgot. Well, I hope it doesn’t bother him too much.
How about 0/2 Leaves from around the yard, but that’s my final offer.
I’m taking a nap.
▬▬ι════════ﺤ
Jogid stumbled back to the mayor’s office in a daze, replaying his master’s words in his mind over and over again.
“Jogid, I have decided to appoint Princess Zenith as acting mayor of Calmo Village instead. You must relinquish the role.”
He sank down onto the plain wooden chair behind the desk, the room seemed to shrink in on him. It had only been a day since Master Kaito had entrusted him with this important duty. Had he failed so quickly? Disappointed his master so profoundly?
With his head in his hands he thought back over the last day, examining it for flaws. He had tidied the office diligently, walked through the village to meet the residents, and had even begun making plans to fix a leaky roof for a family in need. Where had he gone wrong?
Deep down, Jogid knew his dedication and work ethic were not in question. Master Kaito must have unfathomable reasons for this decision far beyond Jogid’s comprehension.
What was the reason then?
Tears pricked Jogid’s eyes and trickled down his cheeks. He had hoped to prove himself worthy of his master’s trust. The abrupt loss pained him more than being exiled from his clan.
Jogid closed his eyes, channeling mana into his brain and increasing his mental capacity. He imagined himself as a great tree, sinking roots deep into the earth. Though storms may batter its branches, the tree remains anchored. He filled his mind with this image, drawing calm and stability from its depths.
When he opened his eyes again, his tears had stopped. He sat up straighter. It made sense now. Master Kaito’s plan spanned far beyond anything Jogid could ever comprehend. Kaito surely had profound lessons to teach and was preparing Jogid for something greater. This was merely another step on the path.
Jogid stood. Like a great tree weathering a storm. Though his heart remained heavy, he would face this test with honor. He neatly organized the office for Princess—NO, Mayor Zenith, and then stepped outside to graciously inform the villagers of the change.
