| The DragonHeart City Ryuken Part 2

Arc 1 | A Detectives End

Phase 1 | The 13th Star Etched In History

"Gilbert what are you up to?" Gilbert who has the duty and obligation to assist Theresia as her advisor is somewhat of an odd man.

He was doing something to the spacious floor where he moved the couches and other furniture that was in the way to the edge of the room.

He then equipped himself with what it looked to be a chalk. Tracing it all over the floor, he wrote down sigils or better yet a foreign language embedded in the floor. It was obvious that it was for the purpose of a spell. But what kind of spell was what had Tsubasa questioning?

I'm just preparing a teleportation hub using a tool full of alchemy", Tsubasa peered over in admiration. "Woah you can teleport?" Gilbert gave Tsubasa a reassuring look; "Well it does have some conditions to it, I can only teleport if I've marked the area using my chalk.

There aren't any limitations to how many times I can mark a place nor how far it has to be, but it is straining to set up." Theoretically, if Gilbert were to mark down places such as a fancy restaurant, he would never even need to leave his bedroom.

Tsubasa was envious, teleportation was such a convenient ability it would save time getting from point A to B in the blink of an eye.

Given more thought if Tsubasa had this ability, should she mark down the teleportation rite back on Earth; Would she still be able to teleport back there?

The hypothetical movement of matter or energy from one spot to another without passing the physical space between them is referred to as teleportation. But with another plane of reality in the equation Tsubasa saw uncertainties if she could actually teleport back to her original world.

"Now then, let's hear everything that happened here the other night, who would like to explain?" Theresia called out to everyone in the room, Gilbert was still resuming his markings on the floor in silence. Everyone had already finished eating breakfast and now it was time to exchange all the information they had, to put the pieces together they could muster up.

Tsubasa stepped forward, clenching her fists in her detective coat pockets, and allured her gaze to Theresia. "Where do I even begin?

It hadn't even been a single day in the mansion yet, and we were attacked by two cindertaurs who were thought to be rumored in these parts even though their natural habitat doesn't fit the description. One of them badly injured Ko and it didn't help that the ever-lasting storm was present.

There was also a mysterious man lurking around who we've suspected to be the perpetrator but he got away." Everyone but Theresia was tense when she mentioned the mysterious man in black. He could've been behind this all but slipped through their fingers amidst the battle. "I see...well what matters is that all of you are safe now, I find it hard to believe that cindertaurs would even be on this continent but I can tell you aren't kidding" she pointed to the husky corpse that stood out like a sore thumb.

"This is bad...I should've been here sooner and prevented all this." Gilbert had finished his markings "All done now" It was hard to make out but essentially it was a large circle engraved with sigils inside.

"Good, we'll all leave shortly; I fear this place is no longer safe". "Tsubasa and Daphne after some investigation with a member of the demon worshippers I have new information as to why they tried to abduct you two. "Those bastards tried to mess with me!" Daphne stomped her feet rapidly in aggravation, just hearing about the demon worshippers put her in a bad mood.

But Tsubasa was interested in hearing what new information Theresia had to say. "Before that, we must leave here back to the Dragonheart City Ryuken".

Daphne was puzzled, 'we traveled quite a bit just to leave there...now we want to go back again?", Tsubasa placed her arm on Daphne's shoulders,

"The answers we'll find are always at the scene of the crime, and also since the enemy has sought us out, this place is no longer safe, at least the city can provide us with more cover". Her mouth gapped in awestruck and nodded profusely "ahhh gotcha, I didn't think of that if I ever see that Artemis turd head I'm gonna bash her head in for getting the jump on me like that POW-OUCH". "Okay that's enough ranting from you now". "Gilbert if you would start please?"

"Spatial Magic: The Stars My Destination"

A surge of energy rippled through the mansion. The previously dimly lit hall is now bathed in a warm and ethereal light. Gilbert turned to face the guests who had gathered, their eyes wide with curiosity and excitement.

Theresia herself watched from the balcony above, her expression a mixture of amusement and approval. "Step inside the circle, my friends," Gilbert beckoned with a grand gesture, a mischievous grin playing on his lips.

Everyone but Theresia exchanged intrigued glances before cautiously making their way onto the intricately marked floor. Gilbert joined them, his own footsteps falling within the lines of the sigils. With a flourish of his hands and a whispered incantation, Gilbert initiated the teleportation spell.

The sigils pulsed with a radiant energy, enveloping the guests in a cocoon of magical light. Time seemed to blur, sensations swirling as if they were caught in a whirlwind of existence.

In what felt like mere heartbeats, the light dissipated, revealing a breathtaking scene before their eyes. The guests found themselves standing in the heart of a new palace, one that was even grander and more opulent than Theresia's previous mansion.

The walls were adorned with glistening gemstones that reflected a mesmerizing array of colors, and the air was filled with the scent of exotic flowers. Gasps and astonished murmurs swept through the group as they took in their surroundings.

Gilbert beamed proudly, his chest puffed out like a rooster. "Welcome to the Palace of Lumina," Theresia announced, her voice echoing with a touch of magic. Even the YoRoKo sisters let out a sound of admiration. This entails that this was a place foreign to even the Astrea maids.

"So does this mean we're in the Ryuken city?" Tsubasa pondered the question to Theresia. She nodded and led them to another room in this massive building with intricate architecture.

Tsubasa couldn't help but capture what Gilbert had incanted out loud; he didn't say 'Divine Aptitude' but rather 'Spatial Magic', she caught on to the idea that there were different mediums of magic. Judging from Carol and Luna's description, 'Divine Aptitude' was the epitome and highly regarded as the strongest but rarest magic type.

"Gilbert would you educate me on the essentials of magic? I'm not too informed on a fundamental level". Tsubasa couldn't help but ask.

"Well for starters there are a total of 13 magic types excluding Divine Aptitudes which is another category in its own right. There's eldritch, chaos, dark, necromancy, alchemy, sorcery, primal, elemental, anti, astral, zodiac, void magic, and the most special one of them all is said to be 'arcane magic'. Gilbert continued scratching his thick ginger beard.

[Tsubasa]: "So what even is a divine aptitude anyways?"

[Gilbert]: "Divine Aptitude is a completely different kind of ability, It can be confused as magic but it's a gift to those few who are chosen by it. Some scholars claim it to be 'divine magic' but since it varies on its user its irregular spectrum can't be classified as a single class of magic."

[Tsubasa]: "I see"

[Gilbert]: "Essentially it is stronger and unique compared to all the magic types except for arcane magic, it is debatable since there hasn't been an arcane user in over four centuries. Arcane magic is said to be the first magic that every other derives from, scholars say that it's capable of warping reality and time as well as illusion transmutation. Divine Aptitude is more of a by-product of arcane magic."

[Tsubasa]: "But can people who have divine aptitudes also be able to use magic?"

[Gilbert]: "Of course they can still use magic, however, there have been some cases where individuals obtained a Divine Aptitude but cannot use magic. I am unable to use one but can still perform alchemy as it is my magical attribute."

[Tsubasa]: "So people can use a particular type of magic according to their attribute?"

[Gilbert]: "That is correct, no one can use more than one type of magic"

As the enchanting sun dipped below the horizon, casting its final warm hues across the land, Theresia gathered her esteemed guests in the heart of the Palace of Lumina. The air was alive with a gentle sense of anticipation as they entered the vast and majestic room that served as the heart of all discussions and deliberations - the Grand Hall of Meetings.

The hall was an embodiment of elegance and grandeur, with towering archways adorned with intricate carvings that seemed to tell stories of forgotten ages. Massive windows lined one side of the hall, their colorful stained glass panels depicting scenes of magic and wonder. Moonlight filtered through, casting ethereal patterns of light and shadow that danced upon the marble floor. In the center of the hall stood an impressive long table, polished to a mirror-like sheen. It stretched out like a regal serpent, its surface seemingly carved from the dreams of architects and the aspirations of leaders. The table was surrounded by an array of plush chairs, each ornate and unique as if crafted by the hands of master artisans from across the realms.

Theresia, her presence commanding yet gentle, stood at the head of the table, her flowing armor trailing like a river of stars. With a graceful sweep of her hand, she invited her guests to take their seats.

As they settled in, the ambiance shifted, the room buzzing with a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Everyone took their places, their expressions ranging from curiosity to respect, for they were about to participate in a gathering that transcended mere discussions.

Theresia's magic was interwoven with every aspect of this room, and the energy crackling in the air attested to the mystical power that bound the Grand Hall of Meetings.

Theresia herself took her seat at the head of the table, her presence commanding attention yet inviting open dialogue. Her eyes held a spark of knowledge that seemed to pierce through veils of uncertainty, making everyone feel as if their thoughts and aspirations were known before they uttered a word.

Theresia began, her voice like a symphony of wind chimes. "In this hall, everything said here is to be kept a secret and not utter to the public or third party, understood?".

Everyone nodded in affirmation. The gravity of the situation was etched on her face, and the two young women exchanged anxious glances, aware that they were about to hear news that could shape their destinies.

"Thank you both for being here," Theresia began her voice soft yet laced with an unwavering resolve. "The assault in the Outer City of Ryuken was not a mere happenstance. It was an orchestrated attempt by demon worshippers who seem to have their eyes set on you, Daphne, and the new girl who recently arrived in our realm." Daphne's eyes widened in shock, her hands involuntarily clenching.

Tsubasa's jaw tightened as she exchanged a concerned look with Daphne. "But why? What would they want with us?"

Tsubasa asked, her voice betraying a mix of confusion and concern. Theresia's gaze flickered between the two women, her expression somber. "We managed to capture one of the perpetrators, a woman named Artemis," she revealed.

"However, her loyalty to the cult is unyielding. We couldn't break her resolve through conventional means, and torture would only be fruitless." Tsubasa's face paled at the mention of torture, and Daphne's fists clenched, reflecting her frustration.

Theresia continued, "During our interrogations, Artemis offered only one piece of information - that you and the new girl are needed for a higher purpose, a purpose she claimed was foretold in an unknown scripture."

Daphne's brows furrowed, her mind racing to comprehend the magnitude of the revelation. "A higher purpose? But what could that possibly mean? And who is this new girl?" Tsubasa's gaze remained steady, her analytical mind already attempting to piece together the puzzle. "I think that 'new girl' would be me?"

Everyone stared at Tsubasa as she made that statement aware. Theresia nodded, acknowledging the weight of their words. "Yes, you are most likely the person Artemis is referring to. But there's another element to this story.

Artemis's demeanor shifted when I mentioned a name - Ryuosuke." The name hung in the air, heavy with an unknown history. Luna and Tsubasa's eyes widened, recognizing the name as one she had heard before. "Ryuosuke... He was the one who attacked Tsubasa in the Outer City."

Luna remarked with hollow and death-glaring eyes. Theresia's gaze darkened, her expression grave. "Artemis's reaction to his name was... disturbing. She went from resolute to broken in an instant, muttering, 'Why did they let him out?'"

Tsubasa's heart pounded as she remembered the chaos that Ryuosuke had unleashed during their abduction. "He... he was powerful. And dangerous." Tsubasa's lips tightened in a grim line.

"If he is associated with these cultists, we need to understand his role." Theresia's voice carried a mix of concern and determination. "Artemis's last words before descending into madness were 'I have failed you, my Matriarch. I accept any punishment.' It seems there's a deeper hierarchy within this cult, and I fear we are only scratching the surface."

As the weight of the situation settled in the room, the three women exchanged a determined glance. The pieces of the puzzle were scattered before them, and they knew they had to decipher their significance before the threat grew any stronger.

In the heart of Theresia's palace, amidst secrets and uncertainty, a united front was forming - a force that would unravel the mysteries hidden in the shadows and confront the darkness that sought to envelop their world.

"Matriarch...no it can't be related to that nightmare" I could vaguely recall that hellscape of a dream, but one thing I do remember was someone who called herself a 'matriarch'. But I'm still unsure about this...it's best if I don't bring it up with the rest. Tsubasa continues to conceal anything about the dream she has.

Tsubasa's voice trembled slightly as she recounted the memory that had been haunting her. "When Ryuosuke was attacking the cultists, he said something to me... 'What beautiful flames, it really is you!'"

The words hung in the air, a puzzle piece that fit uneasily into the emerging picture. Theresia's eyes were a storm of contemplation, and the room fell into a heavy silence as the gravity of the revelation settled in.

Luna exchanged a concerned glance with Tsubasa, her heart racing as she realized the implications. "It sounds like they have a particular interest in you, Tsubasa. But why?"

Tsubasa's jaw clenched her thoughts a whirlwind of confusion and determination. "I don't know... but it's clear that I'm crucial to their plans. And if they've come after me once, it won't be long before they try again."

Theresia's voice carried an undercurrent of worry as she spoke. "We must remain vigilant. I'll ensure your safety, Daphne. I'll nullify your past crimes and provide you with protection." Daphne's expression wavered between gratitude and hesitation. "But that means I won't have complete freedom, right?" Theresia nodded solemnly.

"I'm afraid so. Your safety is my utmost priority, I will not allow those cultists to have their way and wreak havoc just like they did centuries ago during the Dragon War, and this means being under my protection means certain restrictions."

After a moment of contemplation, Daphne nodded, her resolve evident. "If it's you, Theresia, then I accept." Theresia's eyes held a mixture of gratitude and understanding as she turned her gaze to Tsubasa. "Tsubasa, I extend the same offer to you." Tsubasa shook her head, her fiery determination evident.

"Thank you, Theresia, but I won't be kept under protection. I need to understand more about how I fit into this puzzle. I'll hone my magic skills and work as a detective, uncovering the truth." The path she had chosen was clear - to become a great detective, a relentless seeker of truth who would unravel the web of mysteries that enshrouded her world.

The diabolical plans of the demon worshippers loomed like a dark cloud, and she was resolved to bring their schemes into the light. In the world of spells and incantations, Tsubasa needed to become stronger. "I will find the answers," she vowed, her voice unwavering.

"I will unveil their plans and put an end to their darkness. No matter the challenge, no matter the odds, I will prevail." Theresia's lips curved in a slight smile, acknowledging Tsubasa's determination.

"Very well. I'll support your decision, I'll have Carol help you settle in that." Gilbert, who had been listening quietly, chimed in.

"Tsubasa, if you're looking to familiarize yourself with your powers, you might consider attending the same boarding school as Luna. It's a place where you can learn magic and grow."

Luna's face lit up at the suggestion, her vibrant eyes alight with excitement. "Yes! Tsubasa, that would be amazing!"Tsubasa couldn't help but smile at Luna's enthusiasm.

"Alright, I'll give it a try." Luna's happiness radiated as she impulsively leaped onto Tsubasa, hugging her tightly. "Thank you, Tsubasa! This will be so much fun!"

Laughter filled the room as Luna's infectious cheer spread, dispelling some of the tension that had hung in the air. With a sense of resolve, the group leaned into the plans that were unfolding. Theresia's voice, warm and reassuring, broke through.

"And there's another matter. In two days, there's a royal gathering and a dinner party for nobles and royals. Luna, you're invited since you are of royalty."

"Tsubasa, will you accompany me to the party as my plus one?" Luna begged the question and her alluring eyes met with Tsubasa's like a puppy begging for food. Tsubasa hesitated, her discomfort with social gatherings evident.

But Luna's gaze was unwavering, her eyes like beacons of encouragement. Reluctantly, Tsubasa agreed, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. Gilbert's cheerful voice wrapped up the conversation, injecting a note of lightness.

"And remember, there's still time before the Dragon festival ends. Let's take a break from all this mystery and celebrate. Have fun, everyone!" As the group dispersed, each carrying their own thoughts and plans, the chamber felt lighter, infused with a renewed sense of purpose.

In the midst of uncertainty, friendship, determination, and the spark of celebration converged, reminding them that they were not alone in their journey through the enigmatic tapestry of their world.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

Tsubasa found herself roaming around the palace gardens under the beautiful glow of a full moon. The aroma of blooming flowers mingled with the subtle rustle of leaves, filling the air with a sense of calm. Her mind was racing with questions, and she knew there was only one person who could quench her need for information - Luna.

Tsubasa moved to a remote section of the garden, where a stone seat was snuggled beneath the branches of an ancient tree. Luna sat there, bathed in moonlight, her gaze concentrated on the faraway stars that gleamed like jewels in the night sky.

"Luna," Tsubasa's voice was soothing and calm, breaking the silence. Luna smiled warmly as she directed her sparkling eyes towards Tsubasa. "Tsubasa, what is it that brings you here?"

Tsubasa sat near Luna, her contemplative gaze drifting to the sky. "I've heard rumors about the Dragon Festival."

"Could you please tell me more about it?" Luna's eyes twinkled with excitement as she turned to face Tsubasa.

"The Dragon Festival honors the Great Dragon Ryuken, the protector of our realm." It's a time of celebration and unity when people from all walks of life gather to honor Ryuken's spirit and the bounties he bestows on our land." Tsubasa's interest grew. "Please tell me more about Ryuken." "Who exactly is he?"

Luna spoke with a reverent tone in her voice. "Ryuken is a legendary figure in our history, a powerful and kind dragon who long ago saved our realm from darkness that corrupted another dragon Kyurem" According to legend, he appeared from the skies to protect our earth when it was threatened by a wicked power. His scales glistened with the colors of the elements - earth, water, fire, and air - representing his supremacy over them."

Tsubasa's eyes glowed with curiosity. "And how about the festival... how is it celebrated?" As she said, Luna's smile grew. "The festival lasts several days, with each day focusing on a different aspect of Ryuken's influence."

Parades, performances, and ceremonies are held to honor the elements and the harmony they contribute to our world. People dress up in colorful costumes that symbolize the dragon's scales, and there's a palpable sense of community in the air."

Tsubasa was attracted to Luna's remarks by the vivid descriptions, which painted a picture of a colorful and joyous party. "It truly sounds magical." "It is," Luna acknowledged, nodding.

"The festival culminates in a grand spectacle in which a colossal dragon-shaped float representing Ryuken himself is paraded through the city." During the festival, his ghost is claimed to bless the attendees, granting luck and riches."

Tsubasa's eyes twinkled with awe. "I'd love to see that."Luna's laugh rang out like wind chimes. "You're welcome to join in the fun, Tsubasa we could go celebrate it tomorrow?"

It's a happy and peaceful time, and I'm sure you'll like it."Tsubasa's understanding deepened as she absorbed Luna's comments.

The Dragon Festival was more than simply a party; it was a reflection of the world she lived in, a world of magic, history, and tales. And Ryuken, the Great Dragon, was a symbol of optimism, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, strength and solidarity might triumph. Tsubasa felt a sense of connection, not only to Luna but also to the realm they shared, as the moon resumed its ascent. And she found a spark of inspiration in Luna's dazzling stare and the stories of Ryuken's fortitude, which propelled her own journey of resolve and purpose.