>>6147562It was clear to see that this girl had been locked up in her quarters for ages and was enjoying her newfound “freedom”, even if all it amounted to was being tied up right outside her room. The mages of Ithaca likely could not risk her wandering outside her containment zone even for a second, otherwise they might invite a catastrophe such as the one that was occuring. Leaving the girl alone in her room was out of the question. There was a good chance she’d walk out the second you turned your back. On the other hand, leaving her tied up in there just didn’t sit right with you. As you quickly try to deduce how to fix your problem, you catch Elric standing there in the corner of your eye.
The boy may have scored his first kill tonight, but he’s hardly done anything after that. You recall that embarrassing shot he took on the axemen earlier. With two more wings of the Keep to clear that were likely to be more dangerous, you didn’t see Elric contributing much to the fighting. Still, he may have just presented himself as a solution to your Magic Seal problem. He was an enthusiastic sort, who knew all sorts of useless stories and factoids. Perhaps he could keep the girl entertained long enough inside her quarters for you to deal with the trouble upstairs.
>“Magic Seal #99.” You say, feeling ridiculous uttering that ‘name’. “Please allow one of my companions to keep you company. He is a…uhhh, bard of great talent. I’m sure you’ll find his stories quite enthralling. He’s also the same age as you. Probably.”The girl stares at Elric through squinted eyes suspiciously. “Does he know any stories about princesses?”
>“It’s actually his speciality. Isn’t that right, Elric?”Whether he has caught onto your plan or simply wishes to stay out of danger, Elric plays along with your scheming.”T-that’s right! Have you ever heard the tale of Princess Edelgard von Hresvelg? I think you’d quite like it!”
“Hmm…” The Magic Seal ponders. “Alright, I guess. But you better let me take a walk afterwards!” She holds out her pinky finger towards you.
>“Sure, whatever.” You return the gesture, though secretly, you cross the fingers of your other hand behind your back. Better to be safe than sorry. You had no grudge against the girl, and a part of you was sympathetic to her plight. But unless something could be done about her powers, she was a liability.“Boss, that’s terrible!” May whispers behind you, referring to your devilish trick.
“...Magic Seal #99.” Nadia says. “Do you remember who it was that undid the binds on your chamber and set you free?”
“Huh? Oh, I don’t know his name. He was a mean-looking guy though. A mage with short, wavy blonde hair. He wasn’t nice to me…he said I talked too much…”
“Andreas…” Nadia seethes, showing a row of sharp teeth. “What are you thinking? Could you really be so foolish?”
