After we returned to the Egris family home, we all convened in Cara's office to say our goodbyes. I told Cara that we'd leave the the train parked outside Wellick, and that we'd leave the train's control plates on her desk. She's seen how the trains are operated, so I figured it's fine to let her drive herself and her escort to Eden in the morning.
Alyse obviously had no idea about a lot of the implications of those statements, like how control plates would magically appear on Cara's desk, or what control plates are. I just told her not to worry about it until later, when she could ask Cara to explain. She seemed mildly annoyed, but she was cooperative. I privately told Cara that she could answer any of Alyse's questions about me, as long as she didn't disclose the existence of the spell rings.
After that, we departed back to Eden around sunset via teleportation. When we got back, we quickly updated Alara and Zara on the day's events. Naturally, they were surprised that Alyse managed to expose me, but Alara ultimately said it was fine. Apparently, Alyse has a reputation for being capable and straightforward, and Alara thought that she'd be a great addition to the group if she joined us.
Zara was also quite interested in Alyse for obvious reasons – swordsmen will be swordsmen, I guess. Still, I told her and Alara not to get their hopes up, because Alyse didn't seem sold on joining us. I also went ahead and updated our MMC to include the Egris house.
Anyway, after that I was promptly dragged into bed by Nina, barely managing to send a remote thought message to Ilina on the way. I ended up stuck there way longer than I expected...not that I'm complaining. Nina promptly fell asleep in the bed once she'd gotten what she wanted, and I got dressed and made my way to the royal palace. I sneakily updated the MMC in Dargo's office, and now I'm bound for Ilina's bedroom.
I teleport from Dargo's office to her bedroom, after sending her a thought message warning, and I arrive in darkness. As I wait for my eyes to adjust, I feel a pair of slender arms slide around my waist. I hear a deep sigh from Ilina.
"Hmm...today was a long day for me...I missed you. How was Wellick?" (Ilina)
I twist around in the Ilina's arms and slide mine around her in turn. I feel her face press into my chest.
"I missed you, too. Wellick was interesting..." (Mizuki)
I explain all of the day's events, and Ilina just listens quietly, the feeling of her warm breath periodically flooding my chest.
"Honestly, that's pretty impressive of Alyse. You're normally so careful about hiding your abilities. Still, I don't know her well, but it's telling that Alara thinks you don't need to worry about her. My sister isn't without her flaws, one of which is her intense distrust for others, but it works in your favor this time. If she says Alyse isn't an issue, she must be quite certain." (Ilina)
I...don't know if I put that much stock in Alara. I trust Nina's judgement though...I don't think Alyse will share my secrets.
"Well, I agree that we can trust Alyse with my secrets. Anyway, what made your day so long? You sounded exhausted when I arrived." (Mizuki)
Ilina lets out another deep sigh.
"Some of the nobles arrived this evening, ahead of the meeting...including Jorah Abel. Mother said that having me deal with their arrival all alone would be good practice as First Princess, but honestly I think she just didn't want to see them sooner than necessary." (Ilina)
Ilina groans in exasperation.
"Of course, I was pestered constantly about the subject of the meeting tomorrow. I was also questioned incessantly about you, or more specifically if the royal family intended to do anything about the train. Finally, Jorah got the bright idea to start discussing what a 'fine young man' his son is, and trying to set the two of us up during their visit. I almost teleported away." (Ilina)
I know I should be sympathetic...I do. But come on...
"Fufufufu...oh no! It seems I have competition. Shall we duel for m'lady's affections?" (Mizuki)
I feel Ilina's arms tighten around my ribcage, and the strength of it feels...enhanced. Ilina's voice rings out in the dark room, dangerously sweet. With my vision adjusted to the dark I can now make out her silver eyes gleaming like a wolf as she looks up at me.
"Mizuki...don't you think you've caused me enough trouble today?" (Ilina)
I'm...in danger.
"Uhm...hey Ilina...it was just a joke! There's no need to be so, err, ah-" (Mizuki)
I feel Ilina's grip tighten further, and it's actually starting to hurt a bit with only my baseline physical enhancement. She must be pouring most of her magic into that ring....
"I'm sorry, what was that? Were you about to apologize to me for that inconsiderate joke? Perhaps put in some work to take my mind off the terrible day you caused? Was that it?" (Ilina)
"Yes, I'm sorry! Uhm...what can I do for you, dear fiancé?" (Mizuki)
Ilina's grip relaxes and I see a smile form on her lips. She slowly slides her hands up my chest and around my neck, but...it feels strangely threatening. Ilina stands up on her toes, and I feel her lips press against mine firmly. After a few seconds, she pulls away and sighs deeply.
"Mmm...that was a good start. How much time do we have before Nina expects us back?" (Ilina)
Ah...about that. I give Ilina an apologetic look.
"Unfortunately, I have to make the new train system between Eden and Wellick tonight. After I drop you off at our house, I'll need to be gone for several hours to do so. I probably won't get back until you're asleep. I'm sorry, Ilina." (Mizuki)
Ilina purses her lips with a frustrated groan, then she's silent for a few moments. Eventually, she shrugs and gives me an exasperated smile.
"Well, if that's what needs to be done, I understand. How about you take me with you? You owe me some time together, after all." (Ilina)
I raise my eyebrows at her, but she just keeps smiling with an even expression. I'm about to argue with her, but then I remember that I need to talk with her anyway. Plus, it's a long job...some company sounds nice. I nod at Ilina and give her a genuinely grateful smile.
"I'd appreciate that, Ilina. I actually need to talk with you anyway, so...let's do it!" (Mizuki)