Helping Hand in the Preparation

In the days that followed, Rudeus and I embraced the luxury of our newfound free time. While Eris's dance practice and etiquette lessons progressed, we took the opportunity to indulge in our own pursuits.

For me, it is refining my swordsmanship, while my brother delved into the intricacies of various languages.

This offered a much-needed break from our roles as Eris's tutor and sword instructor.

As the days flowed by in this soothing rhythm, my curiosity piqued regarding my brother's linguistic progress.

One night, I decided to pay him a visit to his room and knock the door.

Knock, knock.

"Coming," his voice responded from within, followed by the creak of his door opening. "Oh, Reine. What brings you here?"

I offered a casual smile. "Just checking up on you. Mind if I come in?"

"Sure, come on in," he replied, allowing me entry.

Stepping into his room, my gaze swept over the subtle changes that adorned his personal space. A bunch of stone figurines scattered on his drawer and shelves caught my attention.

Seeing these, I couldn't help but tease him a bit. "Oh, you've redecorated. I don't like it."

"I was just trying something new. But if you don't like it..." He glanced around, slightly upset.

I chuckled and quickly reassured him, "I'm just messing with you, brother. It's actually looks quite nice in here."

After a moment of embarrassment, he took his seat at the table, where an array of books lay scattered, each representing a different language he was tackling.

"So, brother, how's the language study going?" I inquired, genuinely interested in his progress.

He let out a sigh and ran a hand through his hair. "Well, it's been a mixed bag. The language used in the Fighting God is relatively straightforward to decipher. But when it comes to the Demon God and Beast God language, it's quite challenging."

I leaned in, intrigued. "What makes them so difficult?"

He gestured to the books before him as he explained. "You see, unlike the Fighting God language, these two languages were quite different to understand the text written in the book."

"I see now," I nodded, understanding the complexity he was facing. However, an idea sparked within me that might offer a solution. "You know, brother, you could ask Ghislaine to teach you the Beast God language and aak Roxy for the Demon God language."

His eyes lit up with realization. "You're right, Reine. Why I hadn't thought of that?"

I smiled, pleased that my suggestion had struck a chord. "Both of them have direct connections to those languages. It might make your learning journey smoother."

He nodded, enthusiasm evident in his expression. "I'll definitely do that. Thanks for the suggestion, Reine."

Our conversation flowed seamlessly after that, a testament to the bond between siblings.

As we continue to discuss these linguistic pursuits and shared insights, I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments of companionship amidst our individual quests for self-improvement.

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Following my suggestion, Rudeus took the initiative to seek Ghislaine's guidance in learning the Beast God language and also sent a letter to Roxy, hoping to receive her assistance with the Demon God language.

As he delved into his new linguistic journey, I resumed my own pursuits, dedicating time to refining my swordsmanship skills and occasionally exploring the realm of healing magic.

However, a new concern soon emerged that captured our attention.

On the day we returned from Ghislaine's lesson in the Beast God language, an unexpected scene unfolded. Eris stormed through the hallway, her frustration evident in her demeanor, while Edna, the elderly lady responsible for Eris's dance lessons, struggled to keep up, looking visibly fatigued.

Rudeus and I exchanged a knowing look before promptly moving to intercept Edna, offering our assistance as she regained her balance.

"Miss Edna, are you alright?" I inquired with genuine concern, my eyes reflecting my worry.

As Edna regained her footing, she let out a weary sigh before responding with a wry smile. "It's been quite the struggle. Lady Eris became really upset with her dance practice and eventually stormed off."

"That's concerning," Rudeus commented, his expression a mixture of understanding and empathy. "Eris tends to run away from things she finds difficult or dislikes."

Edna turned her gaze toward us, a glimmer of desperation in her eyes as she made a heartfelt plea. "I beg you, both of you. Could you kindly convince Lady Eris to return to her dance practice? Her birthday celebration is approaching, and her dance performance is a significant part of it."

Rudeus and I exchanged a brief glance, recognizing the weight of the request. While it wasn't our role to discipline Eris, the significance of her birthday and the effort Edna had put into organizing the celebration couldn't be ignored.

"Miss Edna, we understand the importance of Eris's birthday celebration," I replied, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "We'll do our best to talk to her and persuade her to resume her dance practice."

Rudeus nodded in agreement. "Yes, we'll have a talk with her. Hopefully, we can help her see the value of persevering through challenges."

Edna's eyes lit up with gratitude, relieved that we had accepted her plea. "Thank you both so much. Your support means a lot to me, and I believe your words will carry weight with Lady Eris."

As Edna departed, Rudeus and I shared an unspoken moment of understanding. Convincing Eris to return to her dance practice might not be an easy task, but we were committed to offering our guidance.

We recognized the significance of the birthday celebration and understood the impact our words could have effect on her decision.

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With the determination to persuade Eris firmly in our minds, Rudeus and I searched the manor diligently until we finally spotted her sitting on a hay bale, deep in thought. Exchanging a wordless understanding, we approached her carefully.

Drawing closer, I spoke in a gentle tone. "Hey, Eris, how are you feeling?"

As she registered our presence, annoyance flickered across her features. "Just leave me alone. I'm done with those stupid dance practices."

"But Eris, practicing your dance is important for your upcoming birthday," Rudeus interjected, trying to reason with her.

However, Eris responded with a groan, seemingly irritated by my brother's efforts. "I'm just going to skip that dumb celebration anyway."

"I think you should reconsider. Your birthday is a special event, and we don't want you to miss out on something you might regret later," I added, hoping to emphasize the importance.

Releasing a heavy sigh, she seemed unmoved by our words. Rudeus and I exchanged concerned glances before settling down near the hay bale, allowing her some time to express her frustrations.

"Why does everyone keep pushing me to do things I'm terrible at? It's so frustrating," Eris vented, her words carrying an undercurrent of emotion.

Her sentiment stirred memories from my past life, reminding me of the countless times I had been forced into tasks I despised during my time with my step-parents.

For a moment, I contemplated whether we should let Eris have her way or reprimand her for her refusal. However, the latter approach felt unjustified given her personality.

"Sometimes, facing challenges you struggle with is necessary for personal growth," Rudeus chimed in, offering a thoughtful perspective that captured both my attention an Eris's.

Her posture shifted slightly, indicating her curiosity. "What do you mean?"

"Tasks you're avoiding now might become valuable skills in the future," Rudeus elaborated, aiming to convey his point. "If you consistently avoid them, you might end up regretting it."

Listening to his words, I found myself wondering if he was speaking from personal experience or not.

However, Eris was unconvinced and voiced her thoughts again. "That's easy for you to say. You and your sister seem capable of anything."

"Actually, that's not true," Rudeus countered her assumption about us. "Reine and I have our own limitations, but we continue to try."

"I don't understand. What could you two possibly struggle with?" Eris questioned.

"My brother faces challenges in learning languages, and I struggle with mastering the Longsword of Light technique," I clarified. "Both tasks were difficult to achieve, but we persisted in our efforts."

"....."

"If you're willing, we'll assist you in your dance practice. What do you say?" Rudeus proposed to Eris, making a final push to convince her.

Ultimately, Eris climbed down from the hay bale and gave both me and my brother a firm smack on the head before moving forward.

Then, with her signature frown on her face, she turned back to us. "Well, what are you two waiting for? Let's get going."

Rudeus and I exchanged triumphant smiles before following Eris back into the manor. Our efforts to persuade her had borne fruit, and we're eager to help her make progress in her dance practice.

With our commitment to assisting Eris in her dance practice, Edna was able to resume her teaching role, with Rudeus as Eris's temporary partner.

Seeing them holding hands and dancing together felt a bit peculiar. While it was just practice and Eris would have a different dance partner for the actual celebration, there was an odd sensation lingering.

Hopefully, no unnecessary developments would unfold, considering Rudeus was already in a relationship.

Anyway, returning to the practice itself, the initial stages appeared promising.

However, the situation escalated rapidly when Eris's impatience got the best of her, resulting in her frustratedly tossing Rudeus into a wall.

It was a stark reminder that progress might take some time.

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With Eris's birthday drawing near, Rudeus and I ventured into the bustling commercial district to search for meaningful gifts. Amid the crowds, we discussed our options, mindful of selecting something that would truly resonate with her.

Navigating through the busy streets, practicality weighed on my mind. "Brother, how are we going to afford a suitable gift?"

From his pocket, Rudeus retrieved a stone figurine that depicted a remarkably detailed carving of Roxy. He elaborated on his plan, "I'm thinking of selling this figurine to gather materials for crafting wands as gifts for Eris and Ghislaine."

Examining the figurine closely, I appreciated his craftsmanship. "You've truly captured her essence here. It's quite impressive."

Pleased with my recognition, Rudeus smirked. "You've seen my other figurines, after all."

However, upon closer inspection, I couldn't help but notice a peculiar detail that raised my eyebrows.

"Brother..." I addressed him, my smile masking a hint of anger beneath the surface.

Worry creased his features as he responded, "Yes, Reine?"

I pointed out a part of the figurine's design that was intricately detailed and seemingly overly focused. "Could you explain why the panty of the figurine is extremely detailed?"

His anxiety heightened, and he attempted to retrieve the figurine from my hands. My grip held firm, though, as I continued to hold it up.

"Please, Reine, I need that figurine for money," he implored.

I furrow my brows and glared at him. "Of all of the details you could focus, why is it always the inappropriate parts?!"

"I know, I'm sorry. Please give it back. I won't do it again," he pleaded.

While my frustration simmered, I released the figurine with a sigh. "You better keep your promise. No more inappropriate figurines, understood?"

He nodded earnestly, promising to comply.

As he took back his figurine, he inquired about my own plans. "What about you, Reine? How do you intend to afford a gift?"

His question prompted a moment of contemplation. My eyes fell upon the bracelet that had adorned my wrist for quite some time. It was a gift from Roxy before her departure, a treasure I'd cherished.

I began to remove the bracelet, intending to perhaps sell or trade it for the necessary funds. Or perhaps, I could just use this as my gift, knowing it might be in hands if Eris receive it instead.

However, before I could say anything, a shadow loomed behind me, and a familiar voice rang out, "If you're thinking of giving that bracelet away, don't do it."

Turning around, Rudeus and I were met with the sight of a hooded figure wearing a recognizable white mask. It was Fracta.

"Fracta? What brings you here?" I questioned, surprised by their sudden appearance.

The masked figure approached, their tone cryptic as she answered, "I've been watching over you for a while. I couldn't help but overhear your conversation."

Curiosity piqued, Rudeus asked, "Why would you care about the bracelet?"

"Now that I think about it, you were the one who gave Roxy this bracelet, weren't you?" I added.

Fracta's gaze remained fixed on the bracelet. "Indeed, that bracelet holds more significance than you realize. It protects you from a certain God who seeks to invade your dreams and glimpse into your future."

Rudeus inquired further, "What God are you referring to?"

Their sigh seemed to carry an air of annoyance. "It's best you don't know their identity. This God is a deceiver, a manipulator, and someone who could ruin your life."

Their words sent a shiver down our spines, leading us to nod in agreement to keep our ignorance intact. I put the bracelet back to my wrist just in case.

Fracta then reached for a sword on their back, offering it to me. "Here, take this sword and gift it to Eris instead."

"Thank you," I replied, taking the sword with gratitude.

Rudeus stepped forward, seeking assistance with his gift. "Could you help me find a suitable gift for Eris as well?"

Fracta pointed to the figurine and said, "Proceed to sell that figurine. It will find its way to someone who will play a significant role in your future."

"Okay then," Rudeus reluctantly agreed.

Fracta turned away, offering a cryptic goodbye. "Farewell, you two. And also, beware of the Impending calamity."

Their enigmatic words left us puzzled as they walked away, leaving us to contemplate the strange encounter and the mysteries that surrounded it.