At breakfast Rowana said to Sai, “We are not going to practice today.”
Sai munched on his carrot and then asked, “Why not?”
Rowana answered, “Their territory dispute with the Land Dragon.”
Rose then said, “Well the Land Dragon was going to cause trouble eventually. They are apex predators and would love to have a huge hunting ground. Who did the Land Dragon pick a fight with?”
“Well two groups actually, the tigers and the Rockfish.” Rowana answered.
Rosa responded in surprise, “The Land Dragon picked a fight with a Divine Beast?”
Sai then asked, “Which Divine Beast are you talking about?”
Rachel clarified, “There are 4 Divine Beasts in the forest. King Cobra, Peacock and the Rockfish. Then there is the true sovereign of this Ironthorn Forest, the King of All Beasts, Regulus.”
Rosa said, “The territory dispute means that the forest will be way more dangerous than normal. Rose, it will be best if you stay in the Fairy Community then travel through the forest.”
Rose responded, “I can take care of myself. Why did you pick me specifically when giving that warning and not Rachel, Rowana or Sai?”
Rosa answered, “Because they don’t leave the Fairy Community frequently. Besides, Rowana can take care of herself. Your not strong, powerful or even skilled like her. You have marginal power.”
Rose got up with a ball of light in her hand, “I will have you taste marginal power.”
Rosa also stood up and had a wind ball in her hand, “I am stating facts. It was long time coming but I am going to show you why you shouldn’t mess with me!”
The faelings were literally vibrating with excitement.
“Their fighting!”
“This is great!”
“We want to see blood!”
“Blood for the Fairy Queen!”
Rachel said in dismay, “Stop fighting! As least not infront of the faelings!”
Rowana turned to Sai, “I will be dealing with the crisis. Please stay in the Fairy Community until the crisis is over.”
“I am absolutely not planning to leave the Fairy Community while the vicious Magic Beast and Land Dragon are fighting each other to the death!” Sai responded with a salute.
----
Clarissa flies toward Sai at fast speed, her eyes fixated on Sai as if he were the prey in a predator's crosshairs. Without warning, she pounced, enveloping him in a tight hug that seemed to linger longer than it should have.
Sai, caught off guard, said, “What are you doing?”
Clarissa responded, “I need to recharge. You're my mana crystal.”
“Recharge? What are you talking about?”
Clarissa continues to hug Sai. “Don't worry about it. Sorry, I missed you this morning. Couldn't be there for you. Too busy.”
“Busy? Doing what?”
Clarissa gives a sad laugh, “Gathering ingredients, working in front a burning hot cauldron, working to the bone to make potion. I was so exhausted last night that I didn't wake up at my normal time.”
“Maybe that’s a good thing. You've been staring at me while I sleep. I always thought it was kinda creepy. Now sadly I am getting used to it.”
“Guilty as charged, and I make no apologies. You're comfortable to watch in the morning light.”
“Flattery won't save you from a restraining order.”
“Oh I know you love me,” Clarissa said with a smile, “Now, are you busy?”
“Not really. Just trying to get some practice in today.”
“Good. I could use your help. Come with me.”
Sai said warily, “Where?”
“My Alchemy spot. Got some heavy stuff that needs hauling.”
“Always the charmer. Lead the way, I guess.”
“I promise I will make it up to you!”
“Can you let me go first? Your still hugging me,” Sai asked the clinging Clarissa.
“Hhhhhmmmm. No.”
----
The Alchemy spot that Clarissa showed Sai was on top of a wooden platform.
It was a large elevated wooden platform with all the equipment for Clarissa to perform alchemy.
In the heart of the Clarissa Alchemy spot, a fire pit blazed, casting an eerie glow upon the surroundings.
On one side was an assortment of herbs and enigmatic liquids stood in careful arrangement.
Surprisingly, an ant farm container showcased diligent ants toiling within.
Decorating around the Alchemy spot were terrariums with different exotic plants.
In a quiet corner, a modest shrine stood, bearing Sai's wanted poster with candles on both sides.
In the back of the wooden platform was a small hill of multitude of cauldrons each boasting its own unique dimensions, some diminutive, others large, some even surpassing the size of bathtubs.
"These plants are a real beauty," Sai observed, his eyes lingering on the meticulously crafted terrariums. A singular tree caught his attention, a pint-sized Sakura tree in miniature.
"I had this thing for pretty flowers, collecting them. Used to press them to preserve their beauty. Then one day I discovered I could turn them into these terrariums. The ones holding these plants are the closed kind, sealed up tight. Once shut, they stay that way, creating a little world of their own in a glass jar. These are the prettiest plants I've ever laid eyes on," Clarissa shared.
“They do look cool. Could you guide me in creating one? This seems like a hobby worth delving into. I've harbored a desire to cultivate bonsai trees, but people say it's a test of patience and dedication."
"I shall impart the wisdom of initiating your own terrariums. Care to witness the feeding of my ants? They are capable of stripping fish meat bare in four hours. Ravenous little creatures."
Sai glanced at the sprawling ant farm and shook his head. "Maybe some other time."
“Alright the offer is still open. The important job I wanted you to do is move the dirty cauldron to the cleaning spot.”
Surveying the many cauldrons atop a small mound, Sai noted their filthiness. Recollecting Rose's method of using water and an enchanted Bucket for cleaning, he asked, "Do you possess a Bucket and water? Could we not clean them here?"
"It's quicker, less mess, less fuss to clean the big cauldron in the cleaning spot. The bucket at my disposal is ill-suited for the larger cauldrons.”
“What about the smaller ones?”
"I'm not keen on tackling the chore of cleaning each one. Moving all those cauldrons to the cleaning area is still a chore. Typically, I enlist the assistance of my friends to share in the effort."
Sai surveyed the cauldrons before him and decided to make a move, starting with the larger one. "Okay, let's get this show on the road."
Clarissa fetched a jar filled with brown, oval-shaped treats. "Before you dive into the heavy lifting, care for some candy? I made these myself, and they're a real treat."
Sai saw no reason to decline and took a piece, popping it into his mouth. "Caramel candy, huh? Not bad at all."
Clarissa's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "Truly? Fantastic! I can whip up more for you if you fancy. In fact, you're welcome to the entire jar."
"I won't turn down free candy," Sai replied. "Let me get started on these cauldrons. I'm thinking of nesting the smaller one into the bigger ones, like those Russian dolls. Fewer trips that way."
Clarissa raised an eyebrow. "Wouldn't that make it tougher to carry multiple cauldrons at once?"
"Yeah, but I'd rather carry more weight than make extra trips. Back in my old world, if I had this kind of strength, I'd haul all my groceries in one go from the car to the apartment."
"I'm not sure I see the benefits. Seems counterintuitive to work harder just to save some time."
"True, but knocking out chores faster means more time to avoid them altogether."
"I can get on board with that. Chores aren't my favorite pastime either."
Sai began fitting the smaller cauldrons into the larger ones, gearing up to lug the nested collection over to the cleaning spot.
----
Sai exerted all his strength as he pushed the sizable cauldron in a wagon towards the designated cleaning area. The cleaning spot featured polished rock tiles and a bubbling fountain. As he approached, Sai noticed a blue-haired fairy, Juliana, leisurely soaking her feet in the water.
Recognizing Sai, Juliana greeted him, "Oh, it's you."
"Yeah, where should I place this stuff to get it cleaned?" Sai inquired.
"Just put it in the water," Juliana replied.
Sai acknowledged her instruction, nodding his head, and maneuvered the cauldron into the cleaning fountain. "I'm finished. I still have more trips to make before I'm done," he informed her.
"Before you go, what do you think about talking to the Fairy Queen for some work? We have tasks that involve physical labor, such as moving heavy objects and trimming Ironthorn bushes," Juliana suggested.
Sai declined, saying, "No thanks."
"Work is crucial in a person's life. It provides a sense of accomplishment and makes breaks more enjoyable. Just consider it," Juliana encouraged.
"I'm heading out now, Juliana. I'll see you again with a dirtier cauldron."
"Alright, tell Clarissa that I said pumpkin."
"Will do."
Sai continued to work in moving all the dirty cauldrons and was rewarded with caramel candy. Much to his delight.
At breakfast Rowana said to Sai, “We are not going to practice today.”
Sai munched on his carrot and then asked, “Why not?”
Rowana answered, “Their territory dispute with the Land Dragon.”
Rose then said, “Well the Land Dragon was going to cause trouble eventually. They are apex predators and would love to have a huge hunting ground. Who did the Land Dragon pick a fight with?”
“Well two groups actually, the tigers and the Rockfish.” Rowana answered.
Rosa responded in surprise, “The Land Dragon picked a fight with a Divine Beast?”
Sai then asked, “Which Divine Beast are you talking about?”
Rachel clarified, “There are 4 Divine Beasts in the forest. King Cobra, Peacock and the Rockfish. Then there is the true sovereign of this Ironthorn Forest, the King of All Beasts, Regulus.”
Rosa said, “The territory dispute means that the forest will be way more dangerous than normal. Rose, it will be best if you stay in the Fairy Community then travel through the forest.”
Rose responded, “I can take care of myself. Why did you pick me specifically when giving that warning and not Rachel, Rowana or Sai?”
Rosa answered, “Because they don’t leave the Fairy Community frequently. Besides, Rowana can take care of herself. Your not strong, powerful or even skilled like her. You have marginal power.”
Rose got up with a ball of light in her hand, “I will have you taste marginal power.”
Rosa also stood up and had a wind ball in her hand, “I am stating facts. It was long time coming but I am going to show you why you shouldn’t mess with me!”
The faelings were literally vibrating with excitement.
“Their fighting!”
“This is great!”
“We want to see blood!”
“Blood for the Fairy Queen!”
Rachel said in dismay, “Stop fighting! As least not infront of the faelings!”
Rowana turned to Sai, “I will be dealing with the crisis. Please stay in the Fairy Community until the crisis is over.”
“I am absolutely not planning to leave the Fairy Community while the vicious Magic Beast and Land Dragon are fighting each other to the death!” Sai responded with a salute.
----
Clarissa flies toward Sai at fast speed, her eyes fixated on Sai as if he were the prey in a predator's crosshairs. Without warning, she pounced, enveloping him in a tight hug that seemed to linger longer than it should have.
Sai, caught off guard, said, “What are you doing?”
Clarissa responded, “I need to recharge. You're my mana crystal.”
“Recharge? What are you talking about?”
Clarissa continues to hug Sai. “Don't worry about it. Sorry, I missed you this morning. Couldn't be there for you. Too busy.”
“Busy? Doing what?”
Clarissa gives a sad laugh, “Gathering ingredients, working in front a burning hot cauldron, working to the bone to make potion. I was so exhausted last night that I didn't wake up at my normal time.”
“Maybe that’s a good thing. You've been staring at me while I sleep. I always thought it was kinda creepy. Now sadly I am getting used to it.”
“Guilty as charged, and I make no apologies. You're comfortable to watch in the morning light.”
“Flattery won't save you from a restraining order.”
“Oh I know you love me,” Clarissa said with a smile, “Now, are you busy?”
“Not really. Just trying to get some practice in today.”
“Good. I could use your help. Come with me.”
Sai said warily, “Where?”
“My Alchemy spot. Got some heavy stuff that needs hauling.”
“Always the charmer. Lead the way, I guess.”
“I promise I will make it up to you!”
“Can you let me go first? Your still hugging me,” Sai asked the clinging Clarissa.
“Hhhhhmmmm. No.”
----
The Alchemy spot that Clarissa showed Sai was on top of a wooden platform.
It was a large elevated wooden platform with all the equipment for Clarissa to perform alchemy.
In the heart of the Clarissa Alchemy spot, a fire pit blazed, casting an eerie glow upon the surroundings.
On one side was an assortment of herbs and enigmatic liquids stood in careful arrangement.
Surprisingly, an ant farm container showcased diligent ants toiling within.
Decorating around the Alchemy spot were terrariums with different exotic plants.
In a quiet corner, a modest shrine stood, bearing Sai's wanted poster with candles on both sides.
In the back of the wooden platform was a small hill of multitude of cauldrons each boasting its own unique dimensions, some diminutive, others large, some even surpassing the size of bathtubs.
"These plants are a real beauty," Sai observed, his eyes lingering on the meticulously crafted terrariums. A singular tree caught his attention, a pint-sized Sakura tree in miniature.
"I had this thing for pretty flowers, collecting them. Used to press them to preserve their beauty. Then one day I discovered I could turn them into these terrariums. The ones holding these plants are the closed kind, sealed up tight. Once shut, they stay that way, creating a little world of their own in a glass jar. These are the prettiest plants I've ever laid eyes on," Clarissa shared.
“They do look cool. Could you guide me in creating one? This seems like a hobby worth delving into. I've harbored a desire to cultivate bonsai trees, but people say it's a test of patience and dedication."
"I shall impart the wisdom of initiating your own terrariums. Care to witness the feeding of my ants? They are capable of stripping fish meat bare in four hours. Ravenous little creatures."
Sai glanced at the sprawling ant farm and shook his head. "Maybe some other time."
“Alright the offer is still open. The important job I wanted you to do is move the dirty cauldron to the cleaning spot.”
Surveying the many cauldrons atop a small mound, Sai noted their filthiness. Recollecting Rose's method of using water and an enchanted Bucket for cleaning, he asked, "Do you possess a Bucket and water? Could we not clean them here?"
"It's quicker, less mess, less fuss to clean the big cauldron in the cleaning spot. The bucket at my disposal is ill-suited for the larger cauldrons.”
“What about the smaller ones?”
"I'm not keen on tackling the chore of cleaning each one. Moving all those cauldrons to the cleaning area is still a chore. Typically, I enlist the assistance of my friends to share in the effort."
Sai surveyed the cauldrons before him and decided to make a move, starting with the larger one. "Okay, let's get this show on the road."
Clarissa fetched a jar filled with brown, oval-shaped treats. "Before you dive into the heavy lifting, care for some candy? I made these myself, and they're a real treat."
Sai saw no reason to decline and took a piece, popping it into his mouth. "Caramel candy, huh? Not bad at all."
Clarissa's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "Truly? Fantastic! I can whip up more for you if you fancy. In fact, you're welcome to the entire jar."
"I won't turn down free candy," Sai replied. "Let me get started on these cauldrons. I'm thinking of nesting the smaller one into the bigger ones, like those Russian dolls. Fewer trips that way."
Clarissa raised an eyebrow. "Wouldn't that make it tougher to carry multiple cauldrons at once?"
"Yeah, but I'd rather carry more weight than make extra trips. Back in my old world, if I had this kind of strength, I'd haul all my groceries in one go from the car to the apartment."
"I'm not sure I see the benefits. Seems counterintuitive to work harder just to save some time."
"True, but knocking out chores faster means more time to avoid them altogether."
"I can get on board with that. Chores aren't my favorite pastime either."
Sai began fitting the smaller cauldrons into the larger ones, gearing up to lug the nested collection over to the cleaning spot.
----
Sai exerted all his strength as he pushed the sizable cauldron in a wagon towards the designated cleaning area. The cleaning spot featured polished rock tiles and a bubbling fountain. As he approached, Sai noticed a blue-haired fairy, Juliana, leisurely soaking her feet in the water.
Recognizing Sai, Juliana greeted him, "Oh, it's you."
"Yeah, where should I place this stuff to get it cleaned?" Sai inquired.
"Just put it in the water," Juliana replied.
Sai acknowledged her instruction, nodding his head, and maneuvered the cauldron into the cleaning fountain. "I'm finished. I still have more trips to make before I'm done," he informed her.
"Before you go, what do you think about talking to the Fairy Queen for some work? We have tasks that involve physical labor, such as moving heavy objects and trimming Ironthorn bushes," Juliana suggested.
Sai declined, saying, "No thanks."
"Work is crucial in a person's life. It provides a sense of accomplishment and makes breaks more enjoyable. Just consider it," Juliana encouraged.
"I'm heading out now, Juliana. I'll see you again with a dirtier cauldron."
"Alright, tell Clarissa that I said pumpkin."
"Will do."
Sai continued to work in moving all the dirty cauldrons and was rewarded with caramel candy. Much to his delight.
