Chapter 11.2 – The Jig is Up, so in Ad Lib We Trust

That's okay, though, I think I have an explanation that will satisfy her.

I glance at Klaus and notice that he has sat down by a tree, and he seems to be staring at the whole scene in pure bewilderment.

"You're correct about me saving you, but I didn't act under Lady Nedonera's orders. I roam the town to keep an eye on things, and I happened to see you in the tavern. When I noticed that you used an item box spell, I was intrigued. That's how you got on my radar, and why I orchestrated everything since then." (Mizuki)

I pause to observe Ilina's reaction. Her confidence seems to be wavering some. Perfect.

"As for my strength, that's thanks to my Lady. Naturally, I have no magic affinity. However, when she graciously allowed me to undergo a ritual to become her subordinate, I gained great physical strength and learned a dark class invisibility spell. The teleportation was done by Lady Nedonera remotely, not by me. My role as her subordinate allows her to always know my thoughts and location. Allow me to demonstrate." (Mizuki)

I step between Nina and Ilina, and I hold up two fingers behind my back facing Ilina.

[Nina, tell them I'm holding up two fingers behind my back.] (Mizuki)

I sense surprise and amusement from Nina, then she obliges. Ilina looks at me puzzled, then seems to realize my intent.

[My dear Mizuki is holding two fingers behind his back, elf, and he requested that I tell you that. Now, I think that my attendant has been more than generous with addressing your accusations, so are you quite done yet?] (Nina)

Nice timing, Nina! The lingering doubt on Ilina's face disappears, and it is replaced by embarrassment. She quickly curtsies towards Nina.

"My apologies, Great Dragon, of course! I'm sorry for being so impudent with our questions, and I appreciate you and Mizuki being so forthcoming. You have a very capable and loyal attendant, and it seems that I let my imagination get the best of me." (Ilina)

Yahtzee! I'm about to try and wrap this up, and thank Nina for her excellent support role, when she goes off script again.

[One last thing, elf…] (Nina)

A flash of light envelops Nina's dragon form. Shortly after, the light fades and I can see Nina in her human form. Thankfully, she's clothed this time. What the hell is she doing, though?

I glance at Klaus, who is still nearly checked out from the shock of recent events, and then I turn to Ilina, who is staring at Nina in surprise with her mouth wide open. Then, Ilina glances at me confused, and at that moment I feel Nina wrap her arms around me from behind and kiss me on the cheek.

I look back at Nina in shock, and I can also sense her amusement. She is smirking and running her fingers through my hair, then she meets Ilina's gaze and addresses her.

"One of the consequences of Mizuki's subordinate relationship with me is that we can't be separated for too long or he grows weak. So, him going off alone to accompany you all the way back to the Elven Kingdom just won't be possible. It's best if he stays by my side and…attends to me." (Nina)

Ahh…she just couldn't resist using this situation to her advantage, huh. I'd be impressed at her ad lib skills, if only she had kept her jealousy in check. Instead, she decided to make everyone uncomfortable. Also…what the hell happened to 'dragon's hate lying'?

Ilina glances at me dumbfounded, like 'soooo, that true?'. I close my eyes and sigh deeply, then I confirm Ilina's unasked question with a nod.

I'm not about to openly contradict Nina, and she knows it. Plus, I did promise her that we'd go adventuring together just the two of us. What a sneaky dragon.

Well, it might be time to wrap up these discussions. I clear my throat to gather everyone's attention.

"Ehem…Lady Nedonera, now that they've already seen your human form, perhaps you could teleport us back to their inn room to finalize these discussions? I can picture the place in my mind, and you should be able to read it and take us there, right?" (Mizuki)

After making my statement, I look at Ilina and raise my eyebrow, like 'that okay?'. Ilina nods and calls to Klaus that we're heading back to their room. Klaus seems confused by the abrupt transition, but he obeys Ilina's command.

"You're correct, Mizuki, I think that's a lovely idea. Alright, elves, gather around closely!" (Nina)

Nina is still wrapped around my neck from behind, and Klaus throws his arm around me like before. Ilina steps in to grab me again…then freezes. Looking back, Nina seems to be glaring at her menacingly. Good grief.

[Nina, please cut it out, it's only a few seconds.] (Mizuki)

[But Mizuki! She…] (Nina)

Before she can protest more, I take Ilina's hand and pull her over next to me. Ilina watches Nina with terror, and I can sense Nina seething, but I ignore both.

"Alright, I think we're all ready, Lady Nedonera!" (Mizuki)

Then, I teleport us back to the elves' room before the situation can deteriorate further.