Chapter 11: IX. ‘Cursed Marks’

Previously on 'Tale of the Demon Hero': Eito and Mr. George's unexpected arrival ruins Mr. Geno and Gina's plan. Eito used to his 'Air-Alementalian' Magic to stop Gina, but it failed. Gina got escaped and the rebellion began.

Back in 'Fireiya'

In the Akimuras' Residence

Inside the living area...

"Eh? Not again? I think the same thing happened last week. I saw her running along in the 'Crafting District', shouting, 'Please don't go, Dear. Please…' and then suddenly fell on the ground due to dehydration." Ms. Janice said as she quietly took the cookie off the basket and tried to hide it inside her white apron's, small pocket.

"Maybe she still misses her husband who passed away last year and Mother, I saw that. Please give me that cookie." Theo said as he casually sips his tea.

"How did you – Damn it!" Ms. Janice said as she took out the cookie, but she suddenly ate it instead of giving it to Theo.

"Uh? Would you like me to give you some assistance?" Theo said as he looked at Ms. Marie and Rai while trying to carry Hikaru to the guests' room.

"Y-yes! Thank you, Theo.," Rai said as Theo stood up and helped her carry Hikaru to the guests' room.

Theo carefully carried Hikaru going the guests' room while Ms. Marie gave Rai the suitcase and followed Theo to the room.

"Ah! Look at my adorable children. They grow up so fast." Ms. Janice said as she casually sips her tea.

"I'm really sorry about this. A fellow 'Red Blacksmith' found a 'Fire Bird' flying above our house and gently dropped Hikaru in our backyard. " Mrs. Marie said as she apologized and sat across Ms. Janice.

"Not at all. Anyway, what are you going to do? I mean the 'Council' has sent her a letter and - …" Ms. Janice said as she asked Ms. Marie.

"I honestly do not want her to leave. But I also cannot defy the 'Council's orders." Mrs. Marie said as she gently picked the first envelope off the table.

"Then, let her attend the 'Presentation'. I believe that your child has the potential to become the next 'Imperial Ruler'." Ms. Janice said as she placed her teacup back on the saucer and gently holds Ms. Marie's right hand.

"Uh? I do believe in my daughter, but I wonder what people would do after hearing about this. I'm sure that they will continue to bully her." Mrs. Marie said as she trembles in fear.

"Don't worry. We will protect her. Just because she is a little different, it does not mean that she is not a 'Fireiyan' like us." Ms. Janice said as Mrs. Marie looked at her.

"Uh? Different? It is my fault why people despise her. If I were not the founder of 'Red Assassins', she'll probably have a happy life right now." Mrs. Marie sadly said as she began to cry.

"But you already quit. The 'Red Assassins' could already have forgotten you so cheer up." Ms. Janice said as she tried to cheer up Mrs. Marie.

"I'm back and we have – Why are you crying? Who made my lovely wife cry?!" Mr. Shuichi said as he went back upstairs, followed by two guests.

"Uh? I'm not crying. Welcome and please come in, Mrs.Hashimoto." Mrs. Marie said as Mrs. Hashimoto and Mikan went upstairs.

"Good evening. I'm sorry for the interruption. I'm Yua Hashimoto and this is my youngest daughter, Mikan." Mrs. Yua, Hikaru's mother, said as she introduced herself and Mikan.

"Good evening. I'm Mikan. Nice to meet you." Mikan, Hikaru's younger sister, said as she introduced herself and then hide behind her mother's casual dress.

"Aw! You are so cute. Please let me pinch your cheeks." Ms. Janice said as she looked at Mikan.

"Hey Janice stop that. You are scaring her." Mr. Shuichi said as he walked to the table and grabbed a cookie.

"It's Ms. Janice, you stupid fool." Ms. Janice said as she stood up and dragged Mr. Shuichi away from the table.

"Uh? Please have a seat." Mrs. Marie said as she stood up and offered to Mrs. Yua.

"Thank you very much but I would like to apologize that we will not stay that long. Someone went to our mansion and said that Hikaru was found sleeping in your backyard. We came in here to pick up Hikaru and bring him back home." Mrs. Yua said as she apologized and stated their main objectives.

"Oh my! Is that so? Theo and Rai brought him to the guests' room. Would you like me to call them?"  Ms. Marie said as Mrs. Yua looked at Mikan who is staring at the cookie basket.

"Yes, please. Mikan, you should stay and wait in here." Mrs. Yua said as Mikan nodded.

Mikan ran to the table, sat on a chair and grabbed a cookie.

"This way please. Ahem! You two, we will be right back." Ms. Marie said as she stares at Mr. Shuichi and Ms. Janice.

"What an adorable couple." Mrs. Yua said as she giggled.

Ten minutes earlier

Inside the guests' room…

"Uh? Theo, are you sure you don't me to help you?" Rai said as she asked Theo.

"N-no! I'm alright. Here we go one, two, three! Man, he's sure heavy." Theo said as he finally managed to put Hikaru on the bed.

"Thank you, Theo." Rai said as she smiled, making Theo blushed.

"Y-your welcome. Anyway, about the two letters I-I didn't mean to pry further but -…" Theo said as Rai looked at him.

"I will attend to the 'Presentation'. Don't worry, my parents would agree with my decision." Rai confidently said as Theo crossed his arms.

"Eh? Then, I got nothing to worry about." Theo said, making Rai confused.

"Worried about what?" Rai said as she got curious and asked Rai.

"Nothing! And another thing, about your tattoo…I mean have you already told your parents about that semi-transparent, infinity loop-shaped tattoo or mark on your upper, right neck?" Theo said as she wondered and asked Rai.

"Ah! About this? I haven't told them about this yet. It magically appeared on my neck after I've recovered from my rehabilitation six months ago." Rai said as she slightly tilted her head to the left and showed him the tattoo.

"Damn it! It's my fault that you have to go through that. I'm sorry." Theo sadly said as he apologized to Rai.

"No! It's not your fault. Anyway, those three were got banished out of the 'Village' so do not cry." Rai said as she gently pats Theo's right shoulder.

"To be honest, I-I am worried that those stupid gossipers might start another false rumor about you but don't worry mother and I will protect you." Theo seriously said, making Rai blushed.

"Um? Thank you, Theo. But you do not have to do – Uh?" Rai cheerfully said as she smiled.

"Isn't that supposed to be my job?" Hikaru said as he slowly woke up and grabbed the pillow.

Hikaru threw the pillow at Theo's face.

"What?! I don't need a pillow. Just saying 'thank you' would be enough." Theo said as he picked the pillow up the floor.

"Hikaru! You're awake. Welcome back!" Rai said as Hikaru smiles.

"I'm back! Anyway, where am I?" Hikaru said as he wondered and looked around the room.

"You're inside our house. Father found you sleeping in our backyard and brought you here. Where have you been?" Rai said as she put the suitcase on the floor beside the bed.

After that, Rai sat on the chair placed beside the bed.

"Uh? I was on the train back to our 'Village' from 'Iytheria' when it was attacked by 'White Skeletons' before it crossed the old, metal bridge and then – Eh?! Why did you do that?" Hikaru said as was interrupted Theo who threw the pillow back on his face.

"And then, what happened? Did you save the 'Iytherian Reps'?" Rai curiously said as she asked Hikaru.

"Yes! They even called me their 'Hero'. My training and efforts to become the next. 'Imperial Hero' are being paid off." The overjoyed Hikaru said as Rai and Theo suspiciously looked at him.

"I wonder what happened." Theo said in disbelief and sighed.

"Yes, me too. I mean how did you defeated the 'Yellow Queen' and her army?" Rai said as she wondered and asked Hikaru.

"I defeated her using my 'superb' communication skills. That's what everyone described it." Hikaru proudly said and then he crossed his arms.

"Really? You really hate recitations so how did that happened." Rai said as she wondered, making Hikaru flinched.

"Recitations huh? Seriously?" Theo said as he tried not to giggle aloud.

"Rai! Y-you don't have to say that aloud." Hikaru shyly said as he blushed and pinched Rai's cheek.

"Ow-Alright! Stop it. I will not do it again." Rai said as she giggles, trying to get Hikaru's right hand away from her cheeks.

"No! I will not stop. Come here –…" Hikaru said as he suddenly pulled Rai onto the bed with him and hugged her.

"H-Hey! What the?! Let go of her." Theo shyly said as he gently pulls Rai away from Hikaru.

"Hi-Hikaru!? What are you doing?" Rai shyly said as she tried to get away from Hikaru.

"Don't worry. You will become my scribe and write my story so that the next generation will know about heroism of the new 'Imperial Hero'." Hikaru said as he gently caressed Rai's face while she forced to straddle above him.

"I said let go of her." Theo shyly said as he continues to pull Rai away from Hikaru.

"W-what? Y-you want me to work for you? And that 'Would-Be-Hero' is you?" Rai shyly said as asked Hikaru.

"Yes, of course. Hey! wait for your turn or you can join us in here." Hikaru casually said, making Rai and Theo both blush.

Theo finally managed to pull out Rai out of the bed.

"Join?! What do you mean by that?!" Rai shyly said as she grabbed the pillow and used it to squish Hikaru's chest.

"You didn't notice? He – I forgot your name, also likes you." Hikaru said as he looked at Theo.

"I'm Theo! I didn't actually like – Shut up!" Theo said as he blushed and helped Rai in squishing the pillow onto Hikaru's chest.

"Join with you in what Hikaru?" Mrs. Yua said as Mrs. Marie opened the door and saw the three, playing on the bed.

Mrs. Yua and Mrs. Marie went inside the guests' room.

"I tried to knock but no one answered back so I opened the door. Um? What are you doing?" Mrs. Marie said as she got curious and asked Rai.

"N-nothing, mother. We saw Hikaru woke up and approached him. That's it." Rai said as she tried to make up a reason and used it as her response to her mother's question.

"Mother?! Good evening, mother. I'm back. Eh?" Hikaru said as he was surprised to see his mother and accidentally rolled off the bed.

"Welcome back, Hikaru. I'm here to pick you up and Mikan is waiting for us at the living area." Mrs. Yua said as she smiled, making Hikaru flinched.

"Mikan is also here?! Mikan! Big brother has arrived." Hikaru said as he stood up and ran out of the guests' room.

"Hey! Don't run like you own this place. Please excuse me." Theo said as he also went out the room, trying to chase Hikaru.

"I'm sorry for that. It has been three years since Hikaru saw Mikan. He probably misses her so much." Mrs. Yua shyly said as she apologized.

"No. Not at all. I am glad that Hikaru is still the young boy that I've known." Mrs. Marie said as they heard something fell and got broken back in the living area.

Mrs. Marie sighed and immediately went out of the room; Rai grabbed the suitcase and gave it to Mrs. Yua.

"Welcome back, Ms. Rai and thank you for taking care of my son."  Mrs. Yua said as she smiled at Rai.

"Uh? You're welcome, your highness. Please call me 'Rai.'" Rai cheerfully said, making Mrs. Yua smile.

"I see why my son likes of you." Mrs. Yua said as she looked at Rai.

"Like? N-No! It's not what you think, we're only best friends." Rai said as she blushed and shyly looked away from Mrs. Yua.

"To be frank, I do not want you for my son. Recently, I have heard rumors that the red-eyed 'witch' just came back to the 'Village' and they are probably referring to you. Please understand that I do not want my son to be a laughingstock in the entire Kingdom because of befriending a 'witch' like you." Mrs. Yua seriously said as Rai clenched her right hand.

"Well, with all due respect, it is up to him to decide who are going to be his friends, not you." Rai seriously said, making Mrs. Yua flinched.

"Then, I will convince him to attend the arrange marriage meeting tomorrow." Mrs. Yua said she smirked and went out of the room.

Rai was the only one left inside the guests' room.

"Tch! That damn, old woman. I need to hide this 'tattoo' before someone saw it again." Rai said as she whispered to herself and went out of the room.

Along the streets

Of the 'Crafting District'

Inside their carriage…

"Mikan, I think you should eat that back in the mansion." Mrs. Yua said as she was sitting across Hikaru and Mikan, trying to stop Mikan from eating a cookie.

"Don't worry, mother. I will only eat one cookie." Mikan said as she ate the cookie while sitting beside Hikaru.

"Eh? Can I have one of those cookies?" Hikaru said as he politely asked Mikan.

Mikan ignored him and looked outside the window.

"Hikaru, I would you like to attend in the arrange marriage meeting tomorrow. Mama will come with -…" Mrs. Yua said as requested Hikaru who suddenly stomped his right foot.

"No, mother I will not attend in that dreadful arrange marriage. I've already told you that I already liked someone else." Hikaru said as he got angry and looked outside the window.

"Huh?! But Mama only wants the best for you and - …" Mrs. Yua said as Hikaru ignored her and sighed.

"I said I don't want to. I thought you would understand." Hikaru said as he pouted.

"Fine. I understand. I will just send an apology letter to the Yukimura Family. I am sure Mr. Yukimura will be upset." Mrs. Yua said as she sighed.

The carriage suddenly stopped in the middle of the uneven road.

"We stopped?" Mikan said as she stops eating and wondered.

"Mother and Mikan, stay in here. I will be back." Hikaru said as he suddenly opened the door and jumped off the carriage.

"Hikaru?! Where are you going?" Mrs. Yua nervously said as she tried to stop Hikaru, but it was useless.

Outside the carriage…

Hikaru went out of the carriage and saw some 'Red Blacksmiths' and 'Fireiyans' blocking the road.

"There he is! We got him." The first 'Red Blacksmith' said as he shouted out.

"Get away from me. That's just a rumor! I-I do not have a 'Cursed Mark.' The drunk man, who Rai met this afternoon, said as he forcefully pushed the first 'Red Blacksmith' away from him.

"Eh? I've heard rumors they saw a white snowflake-like 'Cursed Mark' on that man. Having 'Cursed Marks' is a sign of a bad omen for the entire Kingdom; we should get rid of him immediately." Spectator #1 said as two 'Lower Knights' arrived and arrested the drunk man.

"Get out of here. Go back to your homes, you've seen nothing." The first 'Lower Knight' said as his buddy dragged the drunk man away from the road.

"I-I'm innocent! Look, this is just a tattoo not a 'Cursed Mark' Please let me go. Please! My daughters, Dani and Lilac are waiting for me back home." The drunk man said as he pleaded but the 'Lower Knights' didn't listen to him and still dragged him away.

The crowd slowly dispersed, clearing the road.

'C-cursed Mark?! I must stay calm and forget everything that I've saw – Huh? Mikan! I told you to stay inside the carriage." Hikaru said as he suddenly flinched and clenched his left, shoulder blade.

Mikan went out of the carriage and tugged on his coat.

"Mother said you need to get back inside." Mikan said as Hikaru chuckled.

"Okay. Let's go back. Hold onto me and be careful while going up." Hikaru cheerfully said as he helped Mikan to get on the carriage. Then, their carriage began to move again going to their mansion.

Twenty minutes later

In the Hashimoto Family' Official Residence

On the front door…

One female butler was patiently waiting outside the front door when the carriage arrived and stopped in front of her.

"Welcome back, Madam, Master Hikaru and Lady Mikan." Ms. Georgina, the head butler of the Hamasaki Family, said as she opened the door and welcomed the Hamasaki Family

"Thank you, Ms. Georgina. Please bring this to Hikaru's room." Mrs. Yua said as she ordered and Ms. Georgina.

"As you wish, Madam. Uh? Master, what are you doing?" Ms. Georgina said as Hikaru suddenly grabbed his suitcase from her.

"I will personally bring this to my room. Instead, please prepare my favorite dinner in the kitchen."  Hikaru said as he ordered Ms. Georgina.

"As you wish, young master. Lady Mikan, what would you like to have for your dinner?" Ms. Georgina said as she politely asked Mikan.

"I would love to have Big brother's meal too." Mikan said as her response and gave the small, woven basket to Ms. Georgina.

"As you wish, Lady Mikan. Please follow me." Ms. Georgina said as she walked away, followed by Mikan going inside their mansion.

"Ahem! By the way, mother I've received a letter from the Second 'Imperial Council'. Here it is. They are requesting me to attend in the 'Presentation' Day… Eh?! Wait! That is not -…." Hikaru said as he told his mother and accidentally took Eito's love letter out of his pocket.

"A letter from the 'Council'? Then, that means – Congratulations son! You are one of the 'Council's Candidate' or maybe the 'Princess' Candidate'.  My son is going to be the next 'Imperial Ruler'!" The overjoyed Ms. Yua said as she shouted out and pampered Hikaru with hugs and kisses.

"Mother, thank you. I am glad that you are happy for me but please give me back that letter. That is not – Eh?" Hikaru said as he tried to seize the envelope out of his mother's hand, but Mrs. Yua used it to squish his cheeks.

Mrs. Yua slowly examines the envelope.

"Is this a love letter? Don't tell me Ms. Rai gave this to you. Did she already confess to you?" Mrs. Yua said as she simultaneously asked Hikaru.

"My mother's instincts must not be underestimated. Yes, mother that is a love letter and what do you mean confess?" Hikaru said as he blushed and wondered.

"Hm? Here is your stupid letter. I just remembered that I also need to write one for the Yukimura Family. Let's get inside." Mrs. Yua said as she pouted and shoved the envelope to Hikaru's chest.

"Ow-thank you, mother. Please wait for me and do not run while going upstairs." Hikaru said as he put Eito's love letter back at his pocket and followed his mother back to their mansion.

In 'Wathyria'

In the 'Hamasaki Family's Official Residence

Inside the living room…

Kazuki and Ms. Georgia were waiting inside the living room while the Hamasaki couple were inside the kitchen helping their chefs on cooking their tonight's dinner.

"Uh? I'm so bored. Where is Kenji? Kenji, please come back home." Kazuki said as he lazily lies down on the right sofa.

"Master Kazuki, please be patient. I, too, wonder what is taking him so long." Ms. Georgia said as she was waiting for Kenji inside the living room.

"I'm back! Uh? Where is everyone?" Kenji said as he opened the door and went inside the living room.

"Kenji! Welcome back." Kazuki cheerfully said as he saw Kenji, jumped off the sofa and ran toward him.

"Kenji, you're back! Let's play chess – Eh? Hm?" Kazuki said as he hugged Kenji and noticed him carrying an old notebook on his gloved, left hand.

"Welcome back, Master Kenji. I will just set up the chess board and bring those clams to the kitchen, immediately." Ms. Georgia said as she welcomed Kenji back in their mansion.

"Thank you, Ms. Georgia. Here." Kenji said as he gave the bucket of clams to Ms. Georgia.

Ms. Georgia carefully placed the bucket on the floor, few meters away from twins and began arranging the chess board on the game table.

"Uh? Those were obviously fresh clams and Mr. Charles allowed me to borrow this pocketbook." Kenji said as Kazuki suspiciously stares at the notebook.

"Eh? You really like reading books. Let me see." Kazuki said as he suddenly seized the notebook from Kenji.

"Give it back, big brother. That belongs to Mr. Charles." Kenji said as he tried to grab the notebook, but Kazuki used his left hand to stop Kenji.

"Young Masters, I am done arranging the chess board. I am bringing this bucket of clams to the kitchen." Ms. Georgia said as she approached the twins while carrying the bucket.

"Ah! Stay away from me! Alright! Alright! Here's your notebook." Kazuki said as he flinched after looking at the clams and shoved the notebook back to Kenji.

"Thank you, Big brother. You can now leave, Ms. Georgia." Kenji said as he grabbed the notebook and hugged it.

Ms. Georgia was about to leave the living room when another butler came in.

"Master Kazuki, Madam – I mean, you mother asked me to tell you this. 'What shellfish would you like between these three?' That's all." Butler #1 said as he went inside the living room, carrying silver tray.

Butler #1 approached the twins and presented the tray. There are three shellfishes on the silver tray; the first one is a fresh, cleaned 'Tiger prawn', second is a red lobster and last is a big shrimp.

"I want the big shrimp. Thanks!" Kazuki said as he looked at the shrimp.

"As you wish, young master." Butler #1 said as he walked away and left the living room with Ms. Georgia.

"Finally, he left. I really do not want to see that thing again." Kenji said in relief.

"Thing? Ah! Now, I remember. You have allergies on shrimp." Kazuki said as he sat and lazily lie down back onto the center.

"Yes. That's why I prefer clams rather than shrimps." Kenji said as he took his coat off and sat on the right sofa.

Kenji placed the notebook and his coat on the top of the center, glass table.

"For your information, shrimps are way better than clams. They do not have that long, scissor-like hands just like the ones who bit me before." Kazuki said as he pouted and tossed on the other side of the sofa.

"Actually, those hands are called pincers and the ones who bit you before was a crab not a clam so leaves those innocent shellfishes out of this." Kenji said as he tries to make it clear to Kazuki.

"I-I know! I am not stupid." Kazuki said as he blushed and pouted, making Kenji laughed.

"Hahaha! You're cute when blushing." Kenji cheerfully said as he laughed.

"Cute?! Hahaha! I guess you're right." Kazuki said as he also laughs.

"I am warning you though. Leave those clams alone." Kenji seriously said as he stares at Kazuki.

"Alright! Alright! It was that crab's fault. I wonder why that crab bit me." Kazuki said as he rolled back now facing Kenji on the sofa.

"You took the crab off the sand and tried to cook it so eventually it got angry to you. Uh? Someone's at the door." Kenji said as he sighed and interrupted by a knock.

"Young Masters, may I come in?" Ms. Georgia said as she knocked outside the door.

"Yes! Please come in. Uh? Ms. Georgia?" Kazuki said as Ms. Georgia went inside the living room, carrying a gold tray.

"Master Kenji, you have a letter. The letter arrived this evening. It came from a girl named 'Hayami'." Ms. Georgia said as she picked up the letter and examined it.

Kenji stood up and suddenly swiped away the short, white envelope sealed with a blue wax, out of Ms. Georgia's right hand.

"Thank you, Ms. Georgia. You can now leave." Kenji said as he blushed and walked away.

"As you wish, young master." Ms. Georgia said as she went out of the living room.

But instead of going back to the kitchen, Ms. Georgia decided to listen secretly on the twins' conversation.

Kenji went back to the sofa and carefully hid the white envelope inside the notebook.

"Eh? 'Hayami'? I think I've heard that name before. Was that the girl who gave you that same letter?" Kazuki said as he got intrigued and asked Kenji.

"Uh?! Um? Yes. Probably that is another love letter and wait! Are you jealous that I've received another love letter?" Kenji said as he got intrigued and asked Kenji.

"Jealous?! Of course not! Well, you're quite popular back in the 'Academy' and I assumed she was one of your loyal fans." Kazuki said as he blushed and denied.

"Me? Really? I was busy studying and training, so I didn't notice." Kenji shyly said as he blushed.

"Enough with popularity, why are you wearing a black glove on you left hand?" Kazuki said he got curious and asked Kenji.

"Oh this? I'm left-handed, remember? I wear this all the time to avoid injuring my left hand." Kenji said as he raised and waved his left hand.

"Oh? I see. Then, I think we have bought the same gloves." Kazuki said as he also raised and waved his right hand.

"What happened to right hand?"  Kenji said as he got intrigued and asked Kazuki who flinched.

"Ah-uh!? I-I saw you using one so bought mine to protect my right hand as well." Kazuki nervously said as he laughed and hid his right hand on his back.

"Okay. Then, I will go upstairs and change my clothes. Just call me if you need something." Kenji said as he stood up and grabbed the notebook and his coat.

"Okay! Then – Hm? Could you bring Mr. Blankie for me?" Kazuki said as he requested Kenji who sighed.

"Okay. Wait for me in here." Kenji said as he ran upstairs and went to their bedroom.

Meanwhile back inside the living room…

"That's a relief! Kenji almost found out my 'Cursed Mark'. I should've brought the navy-blue colored gloves instead." Kazuki whispered to himself as he gently removed the black glove, revealing his cherry blossom-like 'Cursed Mark´ tattooed at the back of his right hand.

Inside the Twins' Room…

Kenji placed the notebook and his coat on his desk and crawled back onto his bed.

"That's a relief! Kazuki almost found out my 'Cursed Mark'. If he were to find out my secret, I-I will be banished from the mansion and Kazuki becomes the next Heir of the family. I will not let that happened." Kenji whispered to himself as he sat on the edge of his bed and gently removed the black glove, revealing his musical, eight-note like 'Cursed Mark´ tattooed on the back of his left hand.

Kenji put his black glove back on and hugged his Mr. Pillowy.

Back in the 'Main Island'

In the 'Imperial Dormitories'

Inside Mayumi's Apartment…

"Ah! Look at your stupid grandfather! He fell fast asleep on the sofa. Wait here, I will get him a fleece blanket." Mrs. Yamasaki said as she stood up and went to their bedroom.

"Then, I should start fixing up and washing the dishes." Mayumi said as she stood up and start cleaning the table.

"Ah! I saw three 'Imperial Soldiers' trying to chase a girl out of the dormitories earlier this afternoon. I've heard rumors of that same girl with a 'Cursed mark' was living in this building so be careful, my dear." Mrs. Yumisaki said as she is still inside their room, trying to find a fleece blanket.

"Y-Yes! I will grandmother." Mayumi said as she nervously chuckles and went to the kitchen, carrying the used utensils on a wooden tray. 

Inside the kitchen area…

"'Cursed Mark'? Kenji was the only one who knows about my yellow, crescent moon-like 'Cursed Mark' and he promised to keep this as a secret... Don't tell me - ? No! I must stay calm. I still need to fulfill that promise – And? Uh!?" Mayumi whispered to herself and gently touched her upper, right chest.

Mayumi lost her focus and accidentally dropped her cup on the floor. Mrs. Yumisaki immediately ran to the kitchen and saw Mayumi gently picking up each small pieces of broken glass.

"Mayumi!? Are you alright? What happened?" Mrs. Yumisaki said as she suddenly ran into the kitchen and asked Mayumi.

"I accidentally dropped the cup on the floor. Don't worry, I'm fine…Ow-ouch?" Mayumi said as she got cut from broken glass and interrupted by a doorbell.

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Mayumi and her grandmother heard the continues ringing of the doorbell. They both went to the front door. Mayumi was about to open the door when someone loudly knocked outside her apartment.

"I'm coming, please wait…Eh?! Big brother Miko? Atsuki is here too." Mayumi said as she and Mrs. Yumisaki were both surprised to see Miko and Atsuki.

"Good evening, everyone. I would like to apologize for not informing you about this sudden – Atsuki?! What are you doing?" Miko Yukimura, Mayumi's older brother, said as he went inside the apartment.

Atsuki suddenly ran towards Mayumi and hugged him.

"Big sister! I missed you." The overjoyed Atsuki Yukimura, Mayumi's younger brother, said as he hugged her.

"M-Me! I missed you too. I'm sorry that I haven't sent you any new letters." Mayumi cheerfully said as she pampered Atsuki with hugs and kisses.

"Not at all. Big brother Miko was always playing with me, so I didn't get bored." Atsuki said as he smiled and then looked at his grandmother.

"Ahem! Good evening. Welcome, my other two grandchildren. Please come in." Mrs. Yumisaki said as she welcomed Miko and Atsuki.

"Good evening, Granny! Long time, no see." Atsuki cheerfully said making Mrs. Yumasaki flinched.

"U-uh? It is actually Grandma. I, too, miss you, my adorable grandchild." Mrs. Yumisaki said as she approached Atsuki and playfully pinched his cheeks.

"Atsuki?! Please accept this as an apology, grandmother." Miko said as he tried to stop his grandmother and apologized. Mrs. Yumisaki took the basket from Miko and went back inside the apartment, followed by her three grandchildren.

Back inside the living area…

"You three stay in here. I'll just wash the dishes and be back with some snacks." Mrs. Yumisaki said as she was carrying a big, woven basket of fresh fruits and went to the kitchen.

"Grandmother, wait. I will help you." Mayumi said as her grandmother waved back at them.

"Uh? So, we are here to – Eh?!" Miko said as Mayumi suddenly hugged him.

"Welcome big brother! I miss you too." Mayumi cheerfully said as Miko looked at her.

"I-I missed you too. It's been three years since I saw you. Your hair got longer." Miko said as he gently pats Mayumi's head.

"So, what are you doing in here?" Mayumi said as she asked Miko.

"Uh? We went in the 'Main Island' to watch your 'Final training'. We decided to visit you yesterday, but the land lady shoved us away." Miko said as he explained to Mayumi.

"Hmp! I, too, want to hug big sister." Atsuki said as he pouted and hugged Mayumi.

"How mean. Then, I will come and hug you instead." Miko said as he ran away, trying to chase Atsuki inside the living area.

"Stop! Get away from me. Big brother is too old for hugs." Atsuki said as he ran away from his big brother.

"I'm not that old! I'm only 26 years old". Miko said as he tried to chase Atsuki but…

Atsuki ran away from Miko and hide behind the sofa.

"Everyone, please listen to me. There is something I need to tell you. Uh? But first, I need you to calm – Huh?" Mayumi said as Miko and Atsuki stopped from running and approached her.

"What is it, big sister?" Atsuki said as he got curious and asked Mayumi.

"Um? You see – I got a - … I'm – Eh?!" Mayumi said as she got interrupted by Miko who suddenly pat her right shoulder.

"I knew it. I knew that this would happen. I'm sorry." Miko sadly said as he looked at Mayumi.

Mayumi and Atsuki were both confused from what he just said and looked at him.

"I knew it! You're pregnant! That damn brat! Father will be so mad at us." Miko said in dismay and shouted out.

"What does he mean, big sister?" Atsuki innocently said as he asked Mayumi

"What!? I am not pregnant, stupid! I'm one of the 'Council's Candidate' for the 'Presentation'." Mayumi said as she blushed and shouted out at Miko.

Mayumi walks out to get the three feathers and goes back after a few minutes.

"What?! Wait. While we're staying back at the rest house, we saw five 'Fire birds' flew out of the I.C.H.Q. and one of them actually went in here. Amazing!" Miko said as Mayumi gave him the three feathers that fell off the 'Fire Bird'.

"Those feathers are very pretty. Can I see one?" Atsuki said as he asked Miko.

"Here. But please be careful not to lose it." Miko said as he gently handed over one of the feathers to Atsuki.

"Thank you, big brother." Atsuki said as he took the feather and looked at Mr. Yumisaki who's still asleep in the center sofa.

Atsuki ran to the sofa and using the feather, he gently tickled his grandfather's feet, but it did not work; he got pissed off and tried tickling his right arm pit, but it did not also work as well. Atsuki smirked and decided to tickle his nose instead

"Congratulations, Mayumi! Father would be so proud to you." Miko cheerfully said as he hugged Mayumi.

"Oh? Father, eh? Thank you, big brother." Mayumi sadly said as Miko gave back the two other feathers.

"Speaking of father, he requested me to tell you to attend the arrange marriage meeting after we all get back in 'Iytheria'." Miko said as Mayumi suddenly stomped on his right foot.

"No! I refuse. I already told you that I am not interest on that arrange marriage." Mayumi said as she blushed and crossed her arms.

"Ow-ouch! Then, I will also include that on my letter along with my report to him." Miko said as he jumped off because of pain.

"Report what else, big brother?" Mayumi said as she wondered.

"Secret! Mrs. Hashimoto will be disappointed again. Atsuki!? Don't do – stop!" Miko said as he saw Atsuki playing with the feather onto their grandfather's forehead.

"Mrs. Hashimoto? Wait! Was that guy's last name who asked me out on a date? No! That's not what you think!" Mayumi said as she accidentally shouted out.

"Sounds familiar, eh? That guy who defeated you in your final training was Mrs. Yua's only son, Hikaru Hashimoto. Wait! Did you just say, date?" Miko said as he gently pulled Atsuki away from their sleeping grandfather.

"Yes? - No! That was one of his diversionary techniques to defeat me and I will not let my guard down again." Mayumi said as she blushed and crossed her arms.

"Eh? Alright, I understand. Atsuki, please stop that." Miko said as he finally managed to pull Atsuki away from the sofa.

Atsuki ran away, opened the sliding door and went out to the balcony.

"Atsuki?! It is dangerous over there. Huh? What are you looking at?" Mayumi said as she chased Atsuki and ran to the balcony.

"Wow! Big sister! Look! Look! There is a huge mushroom over there." Atsuki said as they looked at the huge, mushroom-like, smoke formation few kilometers away from her apartment.

"That is smoke, Atsuki. Wait!? That's where the Airport is located!" Mayumi said as she shouted out and hide Atsuki behind her.

In the 'Central Train Station'

On Platform #1

Waiting Area…

Mr. Geno and his male henchman, dressed like ordinary 'Iytherians' went to the 'Central Train Station' to escape to 'Iytheria'. They arrived at Platform #1, waiting for their train going to 'Iytheria'.

"Master, she has arrived." Henchman #1 said as he on-guard and saw Gina silently ran towards them.

"Good evening, Master." Gina said as she arrived and sat beside Mr. Geno on the bench.

"What the fucking hell happened?! I assigned you this mission hoping that you would – Uh?" Mr. Geno softly said as he tries not to be mad at Gina.

"I'm sorry, Master. Eito's unexpected arrival surprised me as well. But, after what happened, I would say that this mission is still a success." Gina softly said as she reported to Mr. Geno.

"Success? We did start the arson in the 'Central Airport' but all of you failed to kill the fake 'Princess'. Tch! I should've killed her myself." Mr. Geno said as he got dismayed and silently stomped his right foot.

"I went back and rendezvous with your spies back at the I.C.H.Q. and they said that the fake 'Princess' is still missing. They heard rumors that the fake 'Princess' and her maid, she called Emi went to the 'Underground Prison' to save their selves." Gina said as she continues to report.

"To the 'Underground Prison'?! Hahaha! The fake 'Princess' will be good as a dead meat. She's probably dead along the thousands who died and became food for the seven 'Mythical Beasts'. Our plan was a success after all." Mr. Geno said as he laughs manically, disturbing the other passengers waiting in Platform #1.

After a few minutes, their train arrives and stops in Platform #1.

"Master, please calm down. The other passengers are looking at us," Henchman #1 softly said as he tried to stop Mr. Geno.

"Then, I no longer need you. Soldiers! Come in here, quick! This girl just confessed that she has a 'Cursed Mark'." Mr. Geno said as he seized Gina's right hand and shouted out inside Platform #1.

"What?! This is not we talked about. Let me go! Let me go!" Gina said as he panicked and tried to push Mr. Geno away but it was useless.

"A-A 'Cursed Mark'?! Soldiers, over there. She's over there."  Lady Passenger #1 said as she got scared and lead the two 'Imperial Soldiers' to Mr. Geno's location.

"Let me go! I said, let me go." Gina said as she finally managed to push Mr. Geno away before the two 'Imperial Soldiers' arrived and caught her.

Gina runs out of Platform #1, accidentally bumping the other passengers.

"There she is! Chase her." Mr. Geno said as the two 'Imperial Soldiers' ran away and chased Gina inside the 'Central Train Station'.

"Master, please hurry. The train is leaving." Henchman #1 said as he grabbed their suitcases and jumped onto the open door of the third train wagon, followed by Mr. Geno who smirked.

Inside the 'Central Train Station'…

The two 'Imperial Soldiers' and Gina arrived at Platform #2 where Gina accidentally bumped off Emi who was waiting for the train going to 'Aethyria'.

"Oww…Are you alright?" Gina said as she and Emi fell on the floor and asked Emi.

"Uh? Yes! I'm alright. Wait! You are one of the students from the 'Fire Class'. Eh?" Emi said as Gina hides behind her.

"There she is! Apprehend her." The first 'Imperial Soldier' said as he and his buddy ran towards Emi and Gina.

"Hey! Ran away from here. I will fight them myself – Huh? What are you doing? "Gina said as Emi shoved her suitcase her and sighed.

"Let them come." Emi confidently said as she removed her light brown colored glove off her right hand.

"Huh?! Are you insane? You cannot defeat them all by yourself." Gina said as she hugged the suitcase and yelled at Emi.

"Yes. I can." Emi said as the two 'Imperial Soldiers' stopped in front of her.

"Hey, did you see a girl running this – Huh? What are you doing?" The second 'Imperial Soldier' said as he asked Emi.

"'Within the abilities, given to me, I command thee, Erase." Emi said as she flicked each soldier's foreheads and used her other 'Alementalian' magic: 'Erasing Memories'. 

The two soldiers suddenly lost their consciousness and fell asleep on the floor.

"What? What happened? What did you do to them?" Gina said as she asked Emi who put her glove back on her right hand.

"You'll see." Emi said as Gina gave the suitcase back to her and walked away from Gina and the Soldiers.

The two soldiers slowly woke up, wondering what happened.

"W-where are we?" The first 'Imperial Soldier' said as he wondered.

"There she is! The woman you're chasing at ran that way. Hurry!" Emi said as she acted out and told the 'Imperial Soldiers'.

The two soldiers grabbed their wooden spears and ran away.

"What – They did not recognize me at all. How did that happen?"  Gina said as she wondered and asked Emi.

'Alementalian Magic' is divided into two: 1. Four 'Main' – these are 'fire, water, earth and air' considered as first four origins of 'Alementalian Magic' and said to be only use by few elite families living in the Four Villages.  2. Seven 'Common Combinations' – the seven common combination magic. Used by commoners around the Four Villages.  Why "common combination?" Because the magic cannot exist without the other element. (e.g. Mud = earth + water, without "water" it is just "earth/soil" or without "earth/soil" it is just "water".

'Other Abilities' are secondary magic rumored to be possessed by certain members of families whose power belongs to the first, four origins of 'Alementalian' Magic.

"My other 'Alementalian' magic allows me to put someone into sleep and erase one of his/her specific memory. I noticed earlier you were chased by two 'Imperial Soldiers' and intentionally blocked your way to help you. I specifically and simply erased your image on their memories that's why they did not recognized you at all." Emi said as she explained and then looked at her right hand.

"A-amazing! Thank you. You're just like the girl who was rumored to erase the fake 'Princess' memories. 'Alementalians' branded her as the malicious 'Enchantress'." Gina said as Emi seriously looked at her. 

"Well, you are looking at her. I'm that 'Enchantress'. Nice to meet you." Emi said as she introduced herself.

The next train arrives and passes beside them.

"W-what?! Are you for real? Then, can you erase my memories?" Gina impulsively said as she asked Emi.

"I-I cannot do that. Wait! Why were you chased by those Soldiers?" Emi said as she stepped back and asked Gina.

"At last, I've finally found you! Come here! I will bring you to the I.C.H.Q. and claim my 25 silver bars as my reward." Gina said as she seized Emi's right hand and pulled her away.

"Huh?! Wait! Let me go! Let me go! I said, let me go!" Emi said as she panicked and tried to push Gina away from her.

"Come with me, little girl. The 'Council' will keep you safe – Eh?" Gina said as Emi finally managed to push her away.

Emi pushed Gina away and Gina fell down straight onto the rail tracks.

"Ow-Ouch! Damn you! Help! That girl with a 'Cursed Mark' just pushed me. Help!" Gina said as she begged for help.

"What!? A 'Cursed Mark'? My goodness! Somebody call the 'Imperial Soldiers'. Female Passenger #1 said as Emi flinched and ran away.

Emi ran inside the third train wagon, pushing the passengers blocking her way.

While running inside the third train wagon…

"No! I must get out of the 'Main Island'. If they found out my red-rose like 'Cursed Mark', I will be dead. Damn it! I need to get out here." Emi said as she whispered to herself and transferred to the fourth train wagon.

Another three 'Imperial Soldiers' came to assist Gina to get out of rail tracks while Emi's train left the Platform and is now bound to 'Aethyria'.

Back at the 'Central Airport'…

"Your highness, please wake up. Your highness!" Fire Fighter #1 said as he tried to wake up Mr. Jiro.

"Uh…W-what happened? Where are we? Where is that damn bastard?! Ow-ouch…" Mr. Jiro said as he slowly wakes up and asked Fire Fighter #1.

"Please do not move, your highness. I will tend your wounds." Fire Fighter #1 said he opened his first aid kit and carefully examined Mr. Jiro's injured, right shoulder.

"Ow- Thank you. Where are the other 'Village Reps'? Is everybody alright?" Mr. Jiro said as he looked around and saw another Fire Fighters tending Mr. Sai and Ms. Iysa's wounds.

"Hey! Calm down. We're still alive. Damn it! That bastard got away." Mr. Sai said he looked at Mr. Jiro.

"He got away!? Damn it! Let's find him. He is probably around the area…Ow-ouch!" Mr. Jiro said as he suddenly stood up and eventually fell on the ground.

"Your highness, please calm down. I still need to put these bandages your right shoulder." Fire Fighter #1 said as he assists Mr. Jiro.

"Yes, your child is right. There are more urgent matters we need to attend right now. Ms. Iysa has suffered from a head injury and Mr. Court Marshall's injury needs to be treated immediately. we must bring them to the Main Infirmary back at the I.C.H.Q." Mr. Sai said as he stood up and dusted off his clothes.

"Damn it! Alright! We will do that.  Uh? Now what?" Mr. Jiro said as he saw another Fire Fighter running towards him.

"Your highness! I found him hiding behind those trees." Fire Fighter #2 said as he ran towards Mr. Jiro, followed by Mr. George.

"Let me go! I am not one of Mr. Geno's accomplices. I'm the Head Butler of the Yoshiyuki Family, I'm Mr. George." Mr. George said as he shoved the Fire Fighter away and introduced his self.

"You're Eito's butler. Good! Everyone, attention please. Men, we will bring Ms. Iysa and Mr. Court Marshall back to the I.C.H.Q. while the others stay in here and continue extinguishing the 'silver fire'."  Mr. Jiro said as he ordered the fire fighters.

"As you wish, your highness." The Fire fighters said in chorus and went back to their job.

"Your right shoulder is injured. I will carry Mr. Court Marshall. Lead us the way." Mr. Sai said he gently carried him up on his back.

"I will also help you, your highnesses" Mr. George said as he run towards Ms. Iysa who was sleeping on the ground and gently carried her onto his back.

"Uh? Okay! Please follow me." Mr. Jiro said as he immediately ran away, followed by Mr. Sai and Mr. George.

A carriage was waiting for them outside the burning airport. Mr. Sai and Mr. George carefully carried both of the injured victims inside the carriage, and they all left the airport.

Twenty-five minutes later

Back in the I.C.H.Q.

In the 'Main Court Room'…

"I'm back! Huh?! Big brother!" Yuki said as he and Mr. Carlo slammed the door and ran inside the court room.

"Welcome back, Yuki… Ow-Ouch!" Hiiro said as he was enduring the pain from his 'ruins'.

Hiiro was resting on Ms. Akari's lap while lying down on the ground; Mr. Akito was helping Mr. Royal Physician and his team examine Mr. Ryo's injury while Mrs. Mai helps to bind Ms. Annie's injury.

"Sir Yuki! Would you kindly lead us a hand?" Mr. Royal Physician said as he asked Yuki.

"Uh? Y-yes! Of course!" Yuki said as he ran towards Mr. Ryu's location.

Yuki and Mr. Royal Physician gently lifted up and carried Mr. Ryu onto the wooden stretcher. Two 'Lower Knights' gently carried and went out the court room to bring Mr. Ryu to the Main Infirmary.

"Thank you, Sir Yuki. Everyone, this way please." Mr. Royal Physician said as he shouted and ran away followed by his other two nurse assistants.

Mr. Royal Physician and his assistants immediately went to Ms. Annie's location and examined her injury.

"You're welcome. Big brother, are you alright?" Yuki said as he ran to Ms. Akari's location.

"I'm alright. How about Harue?! Is she safe?! Please tell me, Yuki." Hiiro said as he panicked and suddenly seized Yuki's shoulders, shaking him.

"U-uh? Harue is fine thanks to Eito. He brought her back to the Rest House."  Yuki said as he reported to Hiiro.

"Thank goodness! That's a relief." Hiiro said in relief and lie down back on Ms. Akari's lap.

"See? I told you that there's nothing to worry about. Now, lie down and rest." Ms. Akari said she hugged Hiiro.

"No! I still need to see her myself. Help me get up." Hiiro said as Yuki helped him to stand up.

Mr. Carlo suddenly dropped his metal spear and casually carried Hiiro onto his back.

"My apologies, your highness. I will carry you back to your Rest House." Mr. Carlo said as he carried Hiiro.

"Uh? Thank you, Mr. Carlo. I promise I will be back. So, hands off my girlfriend, Akito! Let's go." Hiiro said as he smiled and ordered Mr. Carlo.

"Huh?! It is Mr. Akito, stupid!" Mr. Akito said as he got pissed off and shouted out.

"As you wish, your highness." Mr. Carlo said as he gently carried him and ran out of the court room.

"Hey! W-wait for me. We will be back later, your highness. Please excuse me." Yuki said as he picked the metal spear up on the floor and ran out of the court room, chasing Mr. Carlo.

"We're done! Bring her to the Main Infirmary room. Hurry!" Mr. Royal Physician said as he and his team finally managed to put Ms. Annie in the stretcher.

Another two 'Lower Knights' gently lifted the stretcher up and carried Ms. Annie out of the court room.

"Here, please allow me to help you, your highness." Mr. Akito said as he offered his hand to Ms. Akari.

"Thank you, Mr. Akito." Ms. Akari said as her response and stood up.

"Are you alright, Ms. Akari?" Mrs. Mai said as she approached Ms. Akari.

"So, now what are we going to do?" Mrs. Mai said as she approached Mr. Akito and Ms. Akari.

"I guess for the meantime, we should wait for the four 'Village Chiefs' to come back then we plan our next – Eh!? Is that? Ms. Julie? What are you doing in here?" Mr. Akito said as they saw Ms. Julie entered the court room.

"My apologies, your highnesses. I know 'Artisans' are not allowed to enter the court room, but someone told me that Mr. Royal Physician is here." Ms. Julie Kazama, the Headmaster of the 'Artisans' Guild', said as she went inside the court room.

"I'm here! I'm currently busy attending the other patients." Mr. Royal Physician said as he and his team began pulling each of the 'Upper Knights' that were trapped inside Hiiro's 'white quick sands.'

"The three 'Village Reps' – I mean Mr. Jiro, Ms. Iysa and Mr. Sai has arrived back at the I.C.H.Q. and I asked my 'Guild Assistants' to lead them to the Main Infirmary room." Ms. Julie said as she reported to everyone.

"Why sent them to the Main Infirmary room? Don't tell me – Dear, I'm coming!" Mrs. Mai said as she got worried and ran out of the court room.

"Your highness, please wait for us. Damn it!" Mr. Royal Physician said as he and his team also went out of the court room, chasing Mrs. Mai.

"So, what are we going to do with them?" Mr. Akito said as he looked at the six 'Upper Knights' still trapped inside Hiiro's 'white quicksands'.

"Uh? Unless Hiiro undo his 'Earth-Alementalian' magic, they will remain trapped inside those quicksands." Mr. Akari said as they saw the six 'Upper Knights' struggling to get out of the quicksands.

"This is the first time I've seen Hiiro used his magic. I wonder what happened to Ms. Saki." Mr. Akito said as he wondered and walked towards to the location where Mrs. Saki sank.

"Ah, yes.  I-I, too, was wondering what happened to her." Ms. Akari said as she looked away from Mr. Akito.

In the Matsuoka Family's Official Rest house

Back to the living room…

Mr. Carlo and the Matsuoka Siblings arrived back at the Rest house.

"Your highnesses?! W-welcome back!" Emi#2 said as she welcomed the Matsuoka Siblings.

"We're back. Where is Harue?" Hiiro said as he asked Emi#2.

Mr. Carlo gently placed him onto the sofa, allowing him to rest for a while.

"Her highness went up to her room to change her clothes and bring him a blanket. She requested me to wait downstairs and call her if he wakes up." Emi#2 said as Hiiro wondered.

"Him? Who are you referring to?" Yuki said as Emi#2 and the others looked at Eito who is currently sleeping on the floor.

"Eh? So, you're the one who saved my little sister. Thank. You." Hiiro said as he suddenly ran to Eito's location and began poking his forehead.

"Your highness, please stop that. Let him rest." Mr. Carlo said as he tried to pull Hiiro away from Eito.

"Harue, that tickles…Please stop – Huh?! Your highnesses?!" Eito said as he suddenly woke up and saw Hiiro, Yuki and Mr. Carlo.

"'Tickles? Good evening, Eito." Hiiro said as he got intrigued and crossed his arms.

"Please go to my room and pick some new clothes for those guys. After that please go to Harue's room and tell her that we've arrived." Yuki said as he sighed and requested Emi#2.

"As you wish, your highness." Emi#2 said as she immediately went upstairs.

"Y-you don't have to do that, your highness." Eito shyly said as he tried to get up but his painful 'Ruins' stopped him.

"Now, Harue is safe, we should celebrate – Ow-ouch!" Hiiro said as he fell on the ground, enduring the pain from his 'Ruins'.

"Your highness, are you alright? I think you should go to room and rest." Mr. Carlo said as he gently carried Hiiro back onto the sofa.

"No! After we saw Harue, we will bring my stupid big brother and Eito back to the I.C.H.Q. The 'Royal Physician' must see their 'Ruins'." Yuki said as he Mr. Carlo nods in agreement.

"What? Then, you should also see the 'Royal Physician' as well. You have 'Ruins' on your right leg." Hiiro said as he pointed out.

"Huh?! H-How did you know about that?" Yuki exclaimed as he was surprised from what Hiiro just said.

"Idiot! You also used your 'Earth-Alementalian' magic, and I saw you limping instead of running earlier. Now, please roll up your pants and let us see what happened to your leg." Hiiro said as he requested Yuki.

"O-Okay. Then…" Yuki said as he gave the metal spear to Mr. Carlo and sat beside Hiiro on the left sofa.

Yuki gently unrolled his pants up to knees; Hiiro and Mr. Carlo saw Yuki's 'Ruins' covering his entire lower, right leg.

"This is nothing compared to what you have big brother." Yuki confidently said as he also endures the pain from his 'Ruins'.

Inside Harue's room…

Harue was determined to help the Kingdom, so she decided to read the 'Book of Prophecies' instead of resting for the night.

"Okay! I will reread this part again. Page 17 says that 'Ot open eht 'Rusty Gate', eht 'Key' dna 'Master' tsum find eht rehto 'Two Factors': eht 'Gate Keeper' and eht 'Catalyst'.  EhT riddle lliw help uoy find eht 'Gate Keeper': eH, eht 'etaG repeeK' saw a rail deniahc ot sih tsap.'  Uh? So, 1. I just need to solve this riddle and 2. Find the person who has a figure of chain-like tattoo or what the author called 'Cursed Mark'.  What is a 'Cursed Mark' anyway? Eh? Who is it?" Harue said as she was interrupted and flinched.

Outside Harue's room…

"Your highness, it is me. Are you done changing? I have good news for you; Sir Hiiro and Sir Yuki has arrived and Sir Eito has woke up – Eh?" Emi#2 said as she shouted out.

"Really?! Eito has woken up?! Thank goodness." Harue cheerfully said as she suddenly slammed the door and went out of her room.

"Y-yes, your highness. Actually, Sir Yuki asked me to get him some new clothes and – Please wait, your highness." Emi #2 said as Harue seized the clothes and walked away.

"I will personally bring this to him." Harue said as he carefully carried the clothes and went downstairs, followed by Emi#2.

Back inside the living room…

"Big brothers, you're back!" Harue said as saw Hiiro and Yuki and accidentally dropped the clothes.

The overjoyed Harue ran to her other Siblings.

"We're back! I'm glad that your safe." Hiiro said as he hugged Harue.

"H-Harue, your hair – I can't breathe…" Yuki said as Harue's hair was covering his face.

"Here are your new clothes." Emi said as she picked the clothes up on the floor and gave it to Eito.

"Thank you. After I got changed, we will be back at the I.C.H.Q." Eito said as he ordered Mr. Carlo.

"As you wish, your highness. But what about your 'Ruins'?" Mr. Carlo said as Eito walked away and waved back at him.

While walking along the Hallway…

"Uh? My head hurts…I wonder what happened before I fell asleep. Let's see, Harue said something about 'Cursed Mark' and – wait!  I must stay calm. I must change my clothes before someone sees my 'Cursed Mark'." Eito whispered to himself and ran along the Hallway.

Somewhere over the horizon, living in a planet called 'Earth'

In the small, quaint town of 'Ryoshizaki'

While walking on the streets…

There were the 'Exiled Prince' ,carrying his groceries and his sleuth, both gazing above the starry night sky, both waiting for a shooting star to fall.

                                  ______________________________________________________________________________

Thank you for waiting. Here's Chapter XI, enjoy reading. Will update next week. – Cheche-chan.

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