Chapter 89: Chapter 163 – Towards a New Beginning

After Tina had escaped to help out her sister, her father roped Asterios into the talks about politics and similar affairs from the noble circles. He did his best not to embarrass himself in front of everyone and used whatever knowledge he had to give some valuable input into the conversation.

Fortunately, even though Kindra hadn’t revealed her social status to him until they reached Tyrienheim not that long ago, she still taught him a thing or two on the matters of the noble society. It wasn’t much and mostly came off as stories he always thought she picked up during her mercantile career, which turned out to be much bigger than that.

That knowledge, combined with bits of decently recent general information he had often picked up from his brief talks with his mother, Asterios was able to save his face. Everybody was aware that Thomas had only been prodding him a little bit and they were impressed by how much he knew even though he was just a student a few months ago, now an adventurer.

Asterios had his mom to thank for all of it. He should have realized much earlier that she was also a person from a higher society during their days spent together and his upbringing, feeling a bit ashamed he hadn’t thought of it until so late. 

Nevertheless, he was grateful for her incredible job as a mother. No matter what anyone said, she had given her best and made him into who he was right now, and he was proud of who he had become under her teachings and care. It was most likely thanks to Kindra’s creative efforts that he liked learning about things and studying so much instead of hating it like most of his peers at the academy.

The discussion continued for a bit, with Thomas abandoning any ideas of testing Asterios fairly quickly. They all enjoyed talking together about the current state of the kingdom and Ast’s adventures. Tina’s parents were very eager to hear anything more about him so he brought up a few tales from his journeys while leaving out the more sensitive information.

Now and then, Asterios took a peek at Silvia’s group to check on Tina and her sister. They seemed to be doing fine. The sight of the shorter sister trying to encourage the taller one to speak for herself while in front of the princess was something else.

Miria, Selene, and Bryn also accompanied them, most of the time. They were clearly staying away to give him more space and personal time with Tina’s parents, the nobles, and Tina in general. His companions were very understanding, letting him and Tina focus on each other during her day. And night.

Naturally, the exotic appearance of his summons captured quite some attention from the guests, overshadowing even the Royal Division present at the banquet. It might have been the first time its members experienced something like that in their entire service. Wherever they had gone, it had always been them who were at the center of attention.

That resulted in Ast’s girls getting often chatted up by some passing nobleman or noblewoman. While Miria and Selene kindly responded to those attempts and enjoyed interacting with strangers, who seemed to mostly be just polite and curious people, Bryn was more than just a bit surprised at the attention she was getting.

Many praises rained on her magnificent wings and even figure. It was certainly something new to her and she understood that Asterios truly wasn’t lying about their worlds being slightly different. It was impossible for so many people to try and deceive her while appearing so kind and excited about her person.

It made her not only feel warm inside but also curious about her master’s realm and the man himself. Plenty of things were still new to her, including the concept of a man and a woman, but it was easy to grasp and get used to. 

Her initial comparison of Asterios to the Scourge felt even ruder now after she had spent some more time around humans and other races present in his world. The initial feeling of faint discomfort somewhere back in her mind had already disappeared and similar thoughts of linking him to the monsters from her home didn’t surface again. 

It was slowly getting easier to regard Asterios and men in general just like Valkyrs. To some extent, the quite strong differences excited her since it was something new and unknown, making Bryn curious about Asterios as the example of a man. She hoped to learn more about them during their journey, most likely straight from the source, if he wouldn’t mind.

Soon, the banquet was gradually growing calmer. Some of the guests had politely excused themselves and returned home, mostly those families who took part in the celebration with their children. When the youngest participants were gone, the hall naturally turned a tone quieter.

Even the music played by the small band of minstrels switched into a slower tune, perfectly fitting the melancholic near-end of the post-graduation party. Everything was coming to a stop and only the most dedicated people remained, like Marquess Wilhelm’s family and a bunch of close friends of the Nobelles.

Taking the chance when the discussion he was part of focused between the two families instead of him, Asterios respectfully informed them about his temporary leave and headed towards the spot where Tina, Silvia, and all his companions were taking a rest together.

On the way there, Kindra suddenly appeared in Ast’s vision and spun around in front of him with a wide smile. He chuckled at his mother’s antics and extended his elbow to her. She quickly took him on the offer and they walked side by side.

“Are you having fun?” she asked, glancing up at him.

“Yes, I am. I was a little worried but it worked out decently well so far.”

“Of course, it did. You are a fine gentleman and fit in perfectly. You are making me very proud, you know?”

“I’m doing my best. For you, and for Tina.” He smiled softly.

“So, did you enjoy your sweet, private time on that balcony?”

Asterios chuckled and rolled his eyes. “Please, spare her from it, Mom. At least for today. You’ll get enough chances to tease your upcoming daughter-in-law, you little schemer.”

Kindra giggled quietly. “Alright, alright. You are right. We should make sure today is the best day in Tina’s life. Although, I’m sure you have the best night already covered and it will be hard to compete.”

He shook his head with a wry smile, choosing not to respond. He would only dig himself deeper into that hole. It was pointless to fight the teasing nature of his mother.

“Would you like me to transfer you back?” Asterios asked, brushing his mom’s hand on his arm.

“Oh, there’s no need. I’ll stay in the town for now. Already got the inn covered. I want to use this chance to check on a thing or two at the shop. Do you mind getting me back tomorrow?”

“Of course not. Just let me know whenever. Should I accompany you for a bit, then?”

“You don’t have to. Your place is by Tina’s side right now. I appreciate the offer, though. As lovely as always, fufufu~”

Before they reached Ast’s friends, Kindra escaped somewhere, leaving a warm hug behind her. Asterios followed his mother with his gaze for a moment and returned his attention to his initial goal. He reached the women without any further interruptions, getting noticed by Tina first.

“Ast! Here you are! We were just talking about you!” She waved at him with a bright smile.

He chuckled and joined their group. “I hope it was all good things.”

“There aren’t even any bad things about Master we could share!” Miria hastily interjected and giggled adorably.

He plopped a hand on her black hair and gently scratched behind her ears, evoking a few faint purrs from his panthergirl mate. Everyone stared at the scene with warm smiles. Tina slightly envied Miria and Asterios didn’t miss it over their bond, which, in turn, was noticed by Tina herself, causing her to blush fervently. She had to be much more careful with her feelings now.

“Now, I’m pretty sure I’m not without any imperfections but let’s assume you are right just for convenience,” he replied. “How is everyone doing?”

“We’ve been enjoying the banquet greatly, my Lord. Isn’t that right, Bryn?” Selene turned to the valkyrja.

“Ah, yes, very much. It was full of nice people. It’s a fascinating thing being able to experience another realm.”

“Isn’t it?” Miria beamed a smile at her, earning herself more pats.

“It was an amazing celebration,” Tina added. “I’m very thankful everyone here came to take part in it. Especially you, Princess Silvia. Your presence truly turned our small party into something great, right, Gwen?”

“Y-Yes…” the taller sister answered a tad weakly, still slightly star-struck.

“And I had much more fun than I expected, in full honesty. Thank you for the invitation. I can tell that my knights enjoyed themselves too. I appreciate you letting them join the banquet. It will surely be something they will remember. If you don’t mind, we’ll be getting ourselves ready to return soon.”

“Would you like me to help you get back home? You wouldn’t need to fly overnight or stop midway to set up a camp. If it’s not a problem to have your subordinates fly without their leader,” Asterios suggested.

“No, it won’t be a problem. They do have a captain in the squad so I’m not really necessary. I think it would be fine, making their return trip more relaxed and casual without me present.” 

Silvia glanced toward the members spending their time in the same spot. Both men and women were happily drinking together, in moderation, of course. They were still on duty to protect their princess, no matter what she said.

“If you offer, I will oblige. Father will certainly be happy to see me back so soon, and to meet with you again.”

Asterios nodded and glanced at Tina. “What do you say about a quick night visit at the royal castle?”

“You are joking…” 

Her eyes instantly turned wide and a barely audible squeal reached everyone’s ears, coming right from the younger Nobelle. Tina looked between the smiling Asterios and the calm princess.

“That’s actually a good idea. You could even give Father your reply. Unless you would like more time to decide. I’m not rushing you.”

It was Tina’s turn to let out a cute yelp of shock. “Me? Meet the king personally?”

“Of course. You would need to do it anyway,” Silvia replied.

“I thought I would just turn this letter to some official at the barracks or something…” Tina admitted with a wry chuckle.

“That’s not how it works.” The princess smiled softly. “Father oversees every single candidate, especially those with personal invitations. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that we are like one big family. So, what do you say?”

“I… I’ll just let my parents know, hahaha…”

Not wanting to be rude by rejecting the princess, she respectfully accepted the huge honor and hastily trotted to Viscount Thomas and Lady Luna. A loud and clearly stunned “What?!” reached them a moment later, coming from her father. Tina returned to Asterios and the rest soon afterward.

“They agreed. I’ll be in your hands then, Princess Silvia.” She made a slight bow.

“No need to be so official, it’s not an audience. Think of it as visiting your friend’s house.”

“Right, hahahaha.”

The princess then used some kind of a magic sigil and the team’s captain rushed to her side in a flash.

“At your call, Princess.” The woman bowed respectfully.

“I just wanted to let you know that you can return to the capital per your own judgment. You can stay longer if you would like while I will be coming back with Asterios right now. There’s no need to worry about my safety as I will reach the castle in an instant.”

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The female member’s brows rose a little.

“Excuse my rudeness, Princess, but… how?”

“Just like this,” she replied and glanced at Asterios.

A thick shadow swallowed her figure as it shot from under Silvia’s feet and plunged back to the ground, leaving nothing behind. It reappeared by Ast’s side, forming a pillar, and revealed the princess a second later.

“You have seen this ability during the duel. Asterios’ familiar can easily move me right in front of the castle without a problem,” she continued, deciding not to mention that he could also pop right inside the compound.

The woman stared at Asterios with awe for a brief moment before regathering herself and bowing again.

“Orders received. Please, have a safe trip, Princess. We’ll follow you shortly. Thank you for today on behalf of the whole squad.”

A loud “Uraaaaaaaaaaa!” came from behind the team's captain, showing that everyone had been attentively listening to the conversation, causing a soft smile to appear on Silvia’s lips. She nodded and dismissed the leader, turning towards the others again.

“Who goes first, then?” she asked.

“I should be able to transfer two people at once so we can go together. Unless we are going to take someone else with us.” Asterios took a peek at Gwen.

Tina’s sister quickly waved her hands in front of her while taking small steps backward.

“Oh, please, don’t mind me! I’ll be going to bed soon! I have a lot of studying tomorrow, hahaha! Thank you for everything and I hope we can meet again someday! Have a good night, Princess!”

And just like that, she ran away from them. Tina didn’t even try stopping her, shaking her head and letting out a small sigh. It would be pointless to force Gwen to come with them even if that was part of her dream. She was still too much in shock and disbelief.

Therefore, they grouped up and Ast’s girls bid a temporary farewell to everyone before jumping back to their realms. He extended an arm to both noblewomen and Umbra swallowed them whole just like before. They appeared inside the endless darkness while closely hugging Asterios.

“This is kind of… scary…” Tina giggled timidly, trying to look around.

“It gets better after a few jumps,” he replied, constantly rubbing her side to reassure the blue-haired girl a little. “And I’m pretty sure you have it at least a tad easier due to our bond.”

“Are you saying that she doesn’t experience those intense creeps as if millions of invisible beings are scrutinizing her very existence?” Silvia asked from the other side, also tightly embracing Ast’s arm. “I do agree that it gets a little better the more you do it.”

“It certainly isn’t that bad, hahaha. And Ast’s presence helps a lot,” Tina responded.

“That it does.” The princess nodded, beginning to think about the benefits coming from being connected to the powerful Summoner by their side.

In just a few short minutes, the darkness receded and revealed a beautifully decorated chamber in front of them. Tina looked around in awe.

“Didn’t you say that we were going to arrive in front of the castle?”

Silvia smiled softly, taking a step forward. “It’s not like the walls riddled with countless magical formations and made of special material can stop him from getting inside. But, do us a favor and keep that information a secret, please.”

Tina made a mental note to never ever even think about it, shoving the memory deep into her mind. They watched the princess walk to a fancy door and knock on it lightly.

“Father, it’s me. Asterios transferred me back. I’ve brought guests.”

A moment later, the door opened and Welrond showed up on the other side. The king wore his casual robes, which naturally still remained very regal and appropriate for someone of his standing. A wide smile rose on the man’s lips as he stepped into the chamber with his arms spread wide.

“Asterios! It’s good to see you back! And you too, Silvia, of course! Oh, and who is this?”

Tina chuckled softly, hardly believing how friendly the king’s attitude towards Asterios was. She made a respectful bow, lowering her head.

“Greetings, your Majesty. I’m Tina Nobelle, daughter of Visc—”

“Ah, naturally! Who else it could be! Welcome, Tina, welcome! Please, don’t be so stiff! I’m glad I could finally meet you!”

She raised herself and glanced at the man. “Finally?”

“Asterios told us a lot about you. I was looking forward to meeting the Rosewind Academy's Ace in person. Please, come in, all of you. Let’s not stand in the middle of nowhere.”

Sneaking a peek at Asterios, Tina smiled wryly as they followed the king into another chamber, which looked more like a living room meant for relaxation. Silvia’s father brought a few wine glasses and poured something looking quite expensive into each of them, joining everyone on the couches around the low table.

“Congratulations on your graduation, Tina.” He made a toast and they all joined in, raising their glasses too. “I’m sorry I couldn’t attend it personally but I had a few important matters to take care of today, unfortunately. I hope Silvia delivering the invitation in my stead was fine.”

Tina quickly shook her head. “No, no, no! I really appreciate Princess Silvia and the Royal Division showing up at such an insignificant event! I appreciate it greatly! It was one of the best experiences of my life!”

Welrond laughed heartily, nodding to himself. “Good, good. Since you have received a gift from your beloved already, I guess I should throw something in myself too.”

“Ummmm…”

“That’s a great idea, Father. It could also serve as an engagement gift,” Silvia agreed.

“Oh? You two even got engaged already? Another congratulations are in order! Give me some time to think about the gift, then. I will present you two with something in the morning. You don’t mind staying for the night, right?”

“Oh, gods…” Tina whispered under her breath, making Asterios chuckle.

“We will accept the kind offer, Your Majesty,” he answered.

“Great! I assume a single chamber is fine?”

Asterios nodded while Tina’s cheeks got covered with a shade of crimson.

“We are really happy for you, Tina,” the king continued. “From what we have heard, the two of you share quite some history together. Although, if it isn’t too improper to ask, are you planning on marrying your other companions too, Asterios?”

Receiving permission to join them, Miria and Selene walked into Ast’s realm and sat down by his and Tina’s side. He looked between his mates.

“The three of us already share a much deeper connection but I will gladly go through any official ceremonies respected by their cultures and families. So yes, I will most likely marry everyone here at some point. If they don’t mind.”

Miria joined Tina in being a tomato, plagued by a silly smile as her tail made lively dances and her ears twitched joyfully while Selene’s lips curled into a warm, soft smile as she stared at him dearly. 

Welrond smirked at him. “Everyone here, you say?”

Asterios chuckled wryly.

“Father, let’s leave the discussions for tomorrow. I’m sure Asterios and his companions are tired after the events of the entire day. He and Tina especially since they took part in a showmatch, facing each other in a duel of Summoners. We have a lot to talk about anyway, regarding our trip to the Demon Continent and its continuation in a day or two.”

“Oh? A duel between the two of you? I better get to see this on a memory crystal!”

“Don’t worry, I’ll record it later. It will serve as great proof of Tina’s prowess. Nobody will have any doubts about her after we share it amongst the members of the Royal Division.”

“Good thinking.” Welrond nodded. “I won’t hold you back, then. Just like the last time, the same maid will let you know about the breakfast. Please, have a good night. And, congratulations again.”

Wishing each other good night, they went separate ways. Silvia left with her father while Asterios and the girls were led by a butler to their appointed chamber. Tina still couldn’t believe what was happening and just followed their guide while trying to piece everything together in her head.

After reaching the bedroom, Miria and Selene wanted to excuse themselves to give them space but Tina quickly snapped back to herself and rejected their offer. She didn’t want to feel like she was getting between them and Asterios, instead, hoping that she could join their relationship as a new member, even if it was a little bit embarrassing.

But, under the kind words of both women, she grew slightly less tense and flustered, jumping into the bed with all of them present. Everyone stayed in their underwear to not embarrass their new mate and the girls warmly snuggled to Asterios together.

Selene wanted to relinquish her spot at his side to Tina, but Miria hopped onto Ast’s chest and freed her own that way. Thanks to the slight change, everyone had a piece of Asterios for themselves and he could enjoy being hugged by the three beauties all at once.

They briefly chatted together before falling asleep. Tina entered the dreamland as the last person, still watching their sleeping faces for a little bit before doing so. 

A faint smile decorated her lips. She really couldn’t wait to spend more time with Asterios, Miria, and Selene. Of course, that included Umbra and Bryn too, but those three were much more special to her.

Dreaming of their adventures in the Demon Continent and countless different realms, she drifted off, snuggled to Ast’s warm side, barely able to wait for tomorrow, marking the start of a new stage in her life.

 

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