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geekgirles · 19 days ago

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The Doll and the Dragon

Chapter 9: Close to His Heart

Word Count: 36,047

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Chapter Summary: "In the wake of her last encounter with Efrim, Amalia is plagued by questions and insecurities that are greatly affecting her mood, which doesn't go unnoticed by Yugo. In an attempt to take her mind off it all, he offers to take her on a whole new adventure. On the way, will Amalia find the answers she's been seeking on how to move forward? And, who knows? Perhaps she won't be the only one to learn new things about herself."

Something was wrong with Amalia, that much was obvious.

Yugo had noticed something wasn’t right about two weeks ago, when he came by to her room to check up on her and ask her if Nora had reached out to her in the end. Normally, when he visited Amalia—which was almost daily at that point—, her face would split into this dazzling smile that never failed to make him feel valued and appreciated. Whenever Amalia smiled at him like that, he somehow felt more important than when he had to fulfil his kingly duties. It was a little hard not getting addicted to that smile.

The fact that her smile didn’t quite reach her eyes then, even if he could tell she was glad to see him, should have been his first warning. But he took her answer that she was just tired from working on her garden and pulling an all-nighter just to be all caught up with her studies at face value and didn’t push the issue.

His concern spiked up, however, when she tensed up the moment he asked about Nora. It was brief, but he definitely registered the way her smile faltered at his question, her brows knitted in an emotion he couldn’t quite identify, a shadow passing over her features fleetingly. But before he had a chance to ask what was wrong, it was gone, the suspiciously faint curl of her lips back on her face. Amalia just said everything was fine between her and Nora, and that they had a very eye-opening conversation (was it just him, or did she actually hesitate when she said that?) before each had to leave for their respective duties of the day.

When it became apparent she wouldn’t be saying anything else on the matter, Yugo, concerned as he was, chose to let the matter go. He could always ask her later, when she felt ready to talk if something really did happen. However, when he suggested they went out to her balcony to chat like they usually did—since he had already had a sparring session with Adamaï so he wouldn’t be training that day—, he was not-so-pleasantly taken aback when Amalia instead told him she still felt quite tired and asked if they could leave it for another day.

That should have been his second warning, the alarms blaring a little louder this time.

Still, he respected her wishes and left her to her own devices, hoping to be able to spend more time together another time. Although he’d be lying if he said he didn’t feel more rejected than he cared to admit.

But the biggest sign of all, the one that forced him to confront the fact that something was very much not okay with Amalia was the fact that her melancholic and detached behaviour went on for days. Even though she didn’t stop welcoming him into her room and they had gone back to talking to each other on her balcony, as of late, their conversations had become nearly one-sided on Yugo’s part. No matter what he told Amalia about his day, the most he got out of her were noncommittal comments or sounds, meant to give off the illusion that she was paying rapt attention to him when she was anything but. The few times the king successfully encouraged her to open up and share her day with him, the doll limited herself to vague retellings like, “Oh, you know, the usual. I woke up, had some breakfast, worked a little on my garden before having lunch, then I went to class, had dinner… Nothing new.”

Her attitude was a far cry from the energetic, vivacious, and overly curious doll Yugo had come to know and appreciate over the course of the past few months. Whereas just a few weeks ago Amalia would have told him anything and everything about her day, as well as eagerly listened to what he had to say, hanging onto his every word with almost as much reverence as he listened to her, now she seemed to always be lost in thought, her vibrant brown eyes shining with a certain sadness as they trained in on images that only existed in her mind.

At first he thought she was just homesick, but that idea was immediately shot down when the doll insisted she wasn’t exactly thinking about her father and sisters with more vehemence and conviction than anything else she had said recently.

The king also tried asking around in case anyone knew anything, but no matter whom he asked, they all responded in the negative, shrugging their shoulders and explaining that, while they had indeed noticed something was amiss with Lady Amalia, neither of them had any idea as to what might have caused it. The only ones he didn’t ask were the Turquoise Twins; in Efrim’s case, because he knew the dragon would make some sort of disparaging comment towards Amalia, or make his already blatantly clear distrust of her known once more, or both; and he really wasn’t in the mood to argue with his little brother for the umpteenth time. And in Nora’s… Well, because she actually seemed a little… jumpy as of late? Which he supposed made sense, seeing as her twin’s behaviour clearly affected her more than she was willing to admit.

But the way Amalia kept absentmindedly stirring her soup with her spoon, her head resting against her knuckles, when she had yet to take a single bite was the last straw. It was there that he crossed the line because he had gathered, and seen with his own two eyes, how little Amalia had been eating as of late. Divine Doll or not, she had to eat something or she would wither away like a flower in Descendre. If whatever that was on her mind was serious enough to get her to overlook her health, then there was nothing he wasn’t willing to do to put a stop to it.

........................................................................................................................

Lazy circles formed within the creamy white liquid presented in front of her, chunks of the steamed molluscs she vaguely remembered the chef ranting on about as he introduced today’s lunch to them emerging from the broth before submerging themselves again with the next swirl of her spoon. Any other day, the aroma of the tangy clams combined with the richness of the cream-based broth would have been mouthwatering.

Now, though?

Now the longer she stared at her food the more her stomach closed shut, refusing to take even one spoonful.

It wasn’t exactly that she wasn’t hungry—she had barely eaten anything in days and was already beginning to feel the all-consuming void in her belly demanding sustenance. It was simply that the moment she tried ingesting anything, her frazzled nerves would act up and cause her dinner to refuse to stay down. Well, her dinner, and breakfast, and lunch…

And here she thought going through Eliatrope portals was bad. Now she felt like she was stuck in one even as her feet were planted firmly on the ground.

Nevertheless, that was nothing compared to the storm brewing inside her mind, her thoughts refusing to quiet down even in the middle of the night. She would toss and turn for hours on end before she was able to catch a single wink of sleep, and when she succeeded, it was all for naught—her dreams were restless, invaded by the very same worries she had been trying to run away from by making it to Draconiros�� realm.

Whenever she closed her eyes, it was Efrim’s voice that resonated in her mind, and it was all she could do not to cover her ears with her hands and fall to her knees as she begged him to stop.

But the worst part of all was the undeniable truth that, regardless of the unnecessary brutality of his methods, the dragon was right.

Ever since she arrived at Oma Island, she had prided herself in her role of bridging the gap between Twelvians and Eliatropes. A role she was more than happy to fulfil. Truth be told, even though she was willing to do whatever it took to achieve her goal, Amalia would be lying if she said she so much as had an idea how. Looking back, she hadn’t really taken the initiative to bring all races together, it was all Master Joris and his mistresses’ doing that they were even invited to the banquet at Bonta. At no point did she reach out first. Of course, the very reason the Bontarians and the rest of the Council of Twelve even considered interacting with the Eliatropes was because her very presence encouraged them to, but that didn’t change the fact that Amalia hadn’t done anything to ensure that interest other than to exist.

Deep down, all she wanted was to be of help to Yugo and his people, and she took her role with the utmost seriousness, as she did everything in her power to help the attending Council members to leave a good impression on the Twelvians. Likewise, one of her biggest motivators for working day and night on her garden was the very possibility of helping the king. Despite everything, however, Amalia had to admit, not without some remorse, that she had been far too engrossed in learning more about the Eliatropes to really broach the topic on how to help the Twelvians learn more about them, too, and vice versa.

She stopped stirring her chowder altogether, her hand halting in its movements before falling beside the plate, unknowingly taking the spoon with her and leaving a stain on the tablecloth. Her brown eyes, already distant from the whirlwind of emotions overtaking her body and soul, grew even more morose, the stinging feeling coming back as the all-too-familiar tears threatened to make a comeback. But she kept them at bay, far too used to that state of mind to be as affected anymore.

The glossy tint her eyes took didn’t go away.

Could she truly say she had been learning more about the Eliatropes when in all the time she spent on Oma she knew nothing at all? When she remained blissfully unaware of the true source of Efrim’s animosity towards her? When she never even entertained the thought that the Twelvians’ refusal to welcome the Eliatropes was because they indeed didn’t belong to their world? Could she really say she was there to help when she didn’t even know the reason why the Eliatropes settled in the World of Twelve in the first place?

She couldn’t even begin to imagine what it must’ve felt like to lose everything you knew and loved at the hands of those who once were your closest allies…

That day, as she stared at the mural depicting the battle against the Mechasms, horrified that such cruelty was even possible, it was as if the scars, both physical and mental, that marred each and every single Eliatrope had torn Amalia’s skin, her heart bleeding from the inside out under the weight of her new understanding of the situation.

As she stood there, the words stuck in her mouth while her tears streamed freely down her cheeks, all the doll wanted to do was wipe off the tears of each and every one of the Eliatrope children and engulf them into a big hug in hopes of making things even if just a tiny bit easier. She wanted to hold the hand of every person who had lost a loved one during the war and tell them everything was going to be okay, over and over again. Maybe if she repeated it enough, she would start believing it herself.

She wanted to tend to the ill and injured and summon as many medicinal herbs and plants as her magic allowed her to so as to alleviate Qilby and Shinonomé’s burden as much as she could. She wanted to fall to her knees, bring her hands together, and pray alongside Mina and Phaeris, begging her father, or the Great Goddess Eliatrope, or whatever god that was willing to lend her an ear to put an end to the massacre. She wanted to hold the Eliatrope children close and take all their pain away, just like Baltazar and Glip. She wanted to help and lead civilians away from danger, like Nora and Efrim had. She wanted to do everything in her power to help Chibi and Grougaloragran find a solution to their problems, whatever that might be and whatever it may take from her. And she wanted to be by Yugo and Adamaï’s side as they battled the Mechasms, never mind if she used every last drop of wakfu coursing through her veins as long as she could give them a fighting chance.

She just wanted to help. To help them and wash all their pain and suffering away.

But she couldn’t, because she realised with a painful pang in her chest and a lump that formed in her throat as powerless tears threatened to choke her, that she still knew nothing about true agony. She wasn’t there to witness the fall of the Eliatropes’ home planet and what its loss meant to its people. She had never lost anything or anyone.

Her family was composed of immortals that lived far beyond mortal reach unless one was already dead. And even that didn’t pose any threat, as none of the souls entering Sadida’s dimension would ever think of so much as laying a finger on the Leafy God and his daughters, for they were sacred to them.

And given the doll’s own youth, it wasn’t like she had had the chance to know and lose someone. For all intents and purposes, Amalia knew not what grief was like.

In fact, the most miserable she had been was when Yugo started treating her coolly by keeping his distance all those weeks back. Her faraway look hardened into a glare at the memory. Could she be any more selfish? There she was, acting all offended and wronged just because the king wasn’t paying attention to her while he had to lead his people and rebuild their civilisation, all the while juggling his own heartbreak over their loss, no doubt.

Efrim was right. She would never understand. And worst of all, she wasn’t sure she even wanted to. She didn’t think she’d be able to survive the sheer tragedy that had befallen the Eliatropes, and she couldn’t help but be disgusted at herself for her cowardice.

She almost scoffed when her mind traced back to Efrim’s attack, how easily he had disarmed and overpowered her.

“Some demigoddess you are.”

As the taunts echoed loudly in her mind, causing her to flinch and close her eyes as if in pain for the umpteenth time at the memory, there was nothing she could do to stop the red hot fire of shame from coursing through her veins. And to think just a moment ago she had been imagining herself fighting by Yugo and Adamaï’s side… She shook her head to rid herself of those silly fantasies. She ought to be realistic: if she were to enter a battlefield now, she would only be a liability.

Amalia knew deep down that her powers weren’t the problem. She was well aware that her divine nature gave her quite an edge over most other adversaries, seeing as her attacks carried a certain power most mortals could only ever dream of, meaning she could easily outclass most opponents. No, the problem came from within. She was the problem.

What good was it to have immense power over plant-life if she always froze up whenever faced with an actual issue that might justify going on the offensive?

Images of her recent encounter with Efrim and of Count Harebourg’s deranged advances came flooding back, unbidden, mocking her. Her fists clenched tightly on the table as she tried to fight the painful memories off. Both times she had faced demigods who didn’t want her around—or, in the Count’s case, who wanted her too much—, and both times she froze up and let them overpower her even when she could have easily given herself some time by snaring them with her brambles.

There was no point in denying it anymore; her magic would be of little use to her if she simply didn’t know how to use it to its full potential and she stood like an Elante in headlights in the face of danger.

But what hurt the most, loath as she was to admit it, was the way Efrim had hurt her pride. No matter how much she didn’t want it to be true, she depended far too much on Yugo, especially to get her out of trouble when she felt overwhelmed. But, as the dragon had all so helpfully pointed out, Yugo wouldn’t always be there…

She slid her bowl away from her. No point in even pretending she was going to take a single bite anymore. Not when she was plagued by conflicted feelings and emotions.

On the one hand, the idea of not always being able to rely on Yugo terrified her more than she dared to admit. She had got so used to his presence, to knowing she could always count on him—be it to share her latest discoveries with him or to have someone to talk to, knowing he would always defend her—that the mere thought of finding herself without him one day was unbearable.

He was her best friend; she craved and cherished his company more than anything.

But on the other hand, she was a Divine Doll, created by Sadida himself to be exceptional and to need no one but herself. Compared to the other demigods on the World of Twelve, who were essentially mortals with longer lifespans and stronger powers, she and her sisters were truly remarkable. Their father needed not to find a suitable mate, he crafted them himself and brought them to life, sharing a part of his essence to ensure they got to live. And not just as animated dolls, but as actual people. Their feelings were their own; their thoughts and opinions didn’t hinge on Sadida’s; the Doll Master trusted them enough to let them venture off into the world on their own whenever it was required of them; and he loved them so much he made sure they would get to call Inglorium their home.

From her time with Kérubim and Atcham, the doll had learned no other god showed the same courtesy to their children. The closest thing would be how each Ecaflip demigod and demigoddess had access to Ecaflipus, but according to the feline brothers, that was more like a hide-out, rather than an actual home, and it was still heavily influenced by Ecaflip’s bias towards his own children. Every other person with divine parentage was doomed to roam the world of the living, with no chance of ever getting to see the realm of the gods until their time had come.

All that power within her reach, and she still had to rely on someone else to take care of her, because she clearly couldn’t protect herself?

Hot shame enveloped her entire being once more and she bit down on her bottom lip, almost hard enough to draw blood. She couldn’t go on like this.

She barely registered a murmur coming from her left.

What kind of demigoddess couldn’t even take care of herself?

“...lia.”

Why did she always freeze in fear whenever she was in the face of danger?

“A…lia.”

How could she be so stupid as to think she could help Twelvians and Eliatropes alike if she couldn’t even help herself—?

“Amalia.”

She blinked, the sound of her name being called breaking her out of her trance and bringing a new sense of clarity with it, cutting through the thick fog of her self-inflicted berating. Blinking rapidly a few more times, she eventually regained her bearings. The mostly untouched bowl of that creamy substance was the clam chowder the chef had prepared that day for lunch, and the vast expanse of white underneath the tablecloth. Her brown eyes darted back and forth in the space around her, reacquainting herself with the room. The several members of the kitchen staff waiting on her, standing perfectly straight until she declared she was done with her food so they could move on to the next dish. The large, u-shaped table she was seated at, because the Council of Six liked to be able to talk to each other freely and see each other when they ate. The varied arrangement of cutlery displayed right underneath her nose she remembered from her etiquette classes in preparation for the feast in Bonta.

And that was when it hit her. She was having lunch—which lately meant holding impossibly long staring contests with her food—in the dining room.

“Amalia, are you okay?” The soft, caring, yet deep voice that never failed to send a pleasant shiver down her spine spoke again, drawing her attention to its source. Despite the many tumultuous thoughts running through her mind, she couldn’t help but offer a small smile.

Yugo.

He was smiling back, though his was tentative, almost afraid, as if he feared she might break right in front of him at any given moment. There was no hiding the genuine concern glinting in his dark brown eyes as they stared intently into her own. For a moment, Amalia wondered why he would be looking at her like that, before his previous question registered in her mind and she found herself in the very same impasse they had been reaching for the past few days.

Just like all the other times before it, a part of Amalia desperately wanted to tell Yugo that, no, she was not fine. She was being plagued by doubts regarding her self-worth and value within his court. Doubts that had been spurred on by his youngest brother lunging at her and pinning her against the floor as she utterly failed to defend herself, proving just how useless she was even with the unyielding and insurmountable power of nature at her disposal.

She wanted to tell him everything so badly…

But, like every single time before, just as she was about to open her mouth and confess her innermost fears and thoughts, Nora’s desperate pleas to not breathe a word to Yugo came flooding back. With clasped hands and fearful, pink eyes, she begged the doll to let her take care of her twin, as he and Yugo had been clashing over her presence on the island for a long time and the last thing she wanted was to further stress her older brother and king. Despite her better judgement, Amalia found herself agreeing with Nora and promising to keep Yugo out of this—he already did so much, for her and for his people; the last thing he needed was for her to add more to his plate.

And so, once again, the Sadida Doll chose to swallow back down the words clashing against her throat, clamouring for freedom, and simply gave a slight nod of her head.

“Oh, yes, I’m perfectly fine. Thanks for asking.” Saying that had all but become second nature at this point.

“Are you sure?” This time, she was slightly startled to remember they weren’t alone, her head immediately snapping at the new voice. As she turned to her left, staring straight past Yugo, she came face to face with a draconic face covered with white and blue scales. Oh, that was right. Adamaï was there with them, too. She had honestly forgotten.

“What do you mean, Adamaï?” She asked, grimacing to herself when her voice sounded weaker than she would’ve liked.

He merely pointed his own spoon in her direction, “You barely touched your food. What’s the matter? Is it not to your liking?”

Her eyes trailing back to her—mostly untouched and most likely cold—plate of chowder, the doll deflated slightly, turning her face away from the Emerald Twins—why were they known as the ‘Emerald Twins’ though? Amalia had heard many of their subjects refer to them and the other members of the Council like that or with similar naming conventions, but she still had to understand what emeralds and such had to do with Yugo and Adamaï. “No, no. Everything is delicious.”

Her voice sounded pathetically small even to her ears.

As the doll went back to staring silently at her discarded food, a crestfallen expression etched onto her face, the Eliatrope and his dragon twin shared concerned glances. Even if they didn’t share a telepathic link, they would have known what the other was thinking even without words.

“I’m worried about her, Ad.” Yugo told his brother, his eyes continuously going back to Amalia. “She seems down, she barely talks anymore, and she barely eats anything lately.”

“Her sudden change in demeanour is quite strange…” The dragon agreed, taking a spoonful of his own soup. “Just the other day, she was practically buzzing with excitement over the idea of showing her progress in her garden to us.”

“And now she doesn’t even have the energy to share how her day’s been when we talk…” Yugo finished for him, letting out a pained sigh.

After a minute of silence where the two just sent furtive glances the doll’s way, trying to earn a reaction out of her, Adamaï went and voiced the thoughts running through their minds. “You said she’s been like this since the day after Nora talked to her. Are you sure nothing happened between the two?”

“What could have possibly happened, Ad? Amalia’s never had any trouble with Nora, and vice versa. In fact, you know as well as I do that our dear sister has always been very accepting of her, so I simply don’t see what could have gone wrong!” His mind traced back to all the times Nora made an approving comment of Amalia or not-so-subtly flirted with her, taking refuge in her own audacity and the fact that it all flew right over the doll’s head to avoid the consequences.

Seeing his brother pout, Adamaï couldn’t help himself, “Careful, Brother. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you’re jealous of Nora.” If looks could kill, the glare he shot him should have buried him several metres feet under already. Pursing his lips awkwardly, he let out a sheepish, “Sorry.”

After a tense few seconds, with a loud exhale, Yugo’s expression melted into one of resignation, and even that wasn’t enough to draw Amalia’s attention to them. “I really don’t know what could’ve caused this, Ad. As you said, not that long ago she was perfectly fine! But you just saw it for yourself; every time I try asking her if anything’s wrong, she insists she’s fine even when she’s clearly not!”

Adamaï hummed, coming to hold his chin between his claws. “Have you tried asking Nora about it? You might have better luck with her.” But the king just shook his head ruefully.

“Getting a hold of Nora these past few days is even more difficult than getting an honest answer out of Amalia. I think she’s still reeling from Efrim’s actions back in the garden. Even if she doesn’t like to let it show, she’s worried sick about him.”

“She’s not the only one…” Adamaï commented drily. He averted his gaze as he thought back on his little brother and his worryingly paranoid attitude upon welcoming Amalia. And to think, not that long ago, that same dragon spent his time making flower crowns for the children alongside his sister…

He let out a resigned sigh; no point in dwelling in the past now. Not when the present already demanded their full attention. He set his own spoon down, having finished with his chowder. As Serviette, one of the kitchen staff, hurried to take his bowl away and set down the main course in front of him, he asked Yugo, “So if talking to either of them is futile, what do you suggest we do?”

“If I knew, I wouldn’t be asking you for help.” Yugo deadpanned.

“Okay, okay. I’ll admit I walked right into that one.” He just raised his claws defensively, a fork and a knife in each one. Interestingly, that got a reaction out of Amalia, who arched a questioning eyebrow at them, causing the twins to smile sheepishly and insist it was nothing. With that crisis averted, the white-and-blue dragon sliced a piece of roasted Gobball leg and brought it to his mouth with his fork as he considered their options.

“For better or worse, it’s obvious Amalia doesn’t feel like talking about whatever it is that’s bothering her.” He began.

“I see your detective skills are as sharp as always, Brother.” Yugo commented drily, a sarcastic eyebrow raised. He could only roll his eyes when his twin flashed him an annoyed glare.

“Hey, being the sarcastic, logical twin is my thing,” he protested, pointing an accusatory fork at his king. “You’re the earnest, emotionally-driven one, okay? Let’s not get any funny ideas…”

Choosing to ignore the way his brother rolled his eyes yet again, Adamaï went back to trying to come up with a way to help Yugo and, by extension, Amalia. As he pondered on what to do, his attention was drawn to a falling leaf that had drifted into the room through an open window. Looking up, he squinted his eyes at the sight of the filtering sunrays leaking into the room, catching a glimpse of the passing clouds above them.

In a way, this world’s skies were both as similar to their own as they were foreign. Not for the first time, Adamaï felt the inescapable yearning for adventure that always pulled him and Yugo away from home back in their world. Back then, they never thought twice about it—the moment adventure came calling for them, they answered her call.

Now, however, the Emerald dragon couldn’t help but feel stifled and trapped as they were forced to remain still in one place lest they risked putting the natives on edge. And he knew for a fact his restlessness was nothing compared to Yugo’s. The only reason the guy didn’t declare himself a nomad was because he was their king and he loved his family and subjects too much to ever think of abandoning them for good.

Not for the first time, Adamaï found himself genuinely impressed by Sadida’s talent for matchmaking. Even without knowing a single thing about the Eliatrope King, the daughter the Leafy God sent Yugo was perfect for him. Adamaï and Yugo used to believe no one could possibly love exploring more than the two of them, yet, lo and behold, Amalia was as passionate about the idea of leaving the palace and venturing into the unknown as they were.

Sometimes he couldn’t help but wonder how Amalia didn’t go completely insane from being all but locked up in Oma Island, seeing as she depended on Yugo to leave the palace premises and even when he was with her he didn’t dare step foot outside their island. Truth be told, Adamaï knew he wouldn’t have been able to stand it if had he been in her shoes—or…complete lack thereof, as a matter of fact, given how the doll preferred to go barefoot at all times—; he would have completely lost it hadn’t it been for the banquet at Oma and—.

He straightened in his seat as realisation hit him, his head turning to face his brother so fast he almost gave himself whiplash, and Yugo was staring at him with his eyebrows shooting up to the ceiling. A tentative grin forming on his face—before he reluctantly had to reassume his neutral expression due to Yugo warning him he was doing that thing where he looked downright creepy even if he tried to appear friendly—, he finally said, “Why not distract her?”

“What?” Yugo blinked, not following.

“You want to help Amalia deal with whatever she’s going through, right?” When his twin nodded, he continued. “Well, it’s clear she doesn’t feel ready to open up about whatever’s bothering her, so why don’t you just take her mind off of it for a bit? Obsessing over it won’t help her either, might as well forget all about it for a while and have some fun.”

Yugo actually considered it for a moment, the ears of his hood twitching in interest. As always, Ad had a point. More often than not, when he had something on his mind or faced a problem that wasn’t easy to solve but he didn’t feel ready to share his burden with his twin and the rest of their siblings just yet, he usually tried to give himself some respite by taking his mind off of it. Which usually involved training until he was too exhausted to think, spending time with Amalia, or both.

With that in mind, it was only natural Amalia would only feel worse the more she thought about whatever was on her mind, especially if she still didn’t feel like opening up. In that case, the best thing he could do for her really was to help her relax and forget about her issues, even if it was just for a little while. Maybe then she would finally feel comfortable enough to confide her insecurities in him.

His mind made up just in time for Serviette to take his plate, too, he leaned closer to his dragon twin, “And what do you suggest I do?”

Adamaï’s smirk widened. Taking advantage of their mind link, he was free to tell Yugo even the things they were careful to keep to themselves even in the presence of their siblings. For his part, the more Yugo listened to his brother’s suggestion, the more his eyes widened, completely taken aback. That was honestly the last thing he expected Adamaï to come up with.

His mind still reeling, he couldn’t help but ask, “Are you sure?”

The dragon just shrugged. “If she doesn’t perk up at that, then nothing will get a reaction out of her.”

“No, but… Ad, I mean if you’re sure it’s a good idea.”

“I understand it can be a little risky, but might as well try, right? After all, you’ll be safer there, all things considered.”

Once again, his twin raised a very valid point. Technically, they should be safer there; there was a reason why the two of them ever went there in the first place, after all. But that didn’t mean he felt comfortable with the prospect of possibly endangering Amalia or his people’s already fragile acceptance amongst the Twelvians.

As in reading his thoughts, and, all things considered, he probably had, Adamaï was quick to dissuade his brother’s worries by placing a claw on his shoulder and flashing him an encouraging grin. “Yugo, it’s okay. Seriously, the only place I can think of that she might be safer in is the Sadida Kingdom. But if you do encounter trouble, just remember I’ll be able to sense it and come to your rescue right away.” He finished with a cheeky wink.

Despite everything, Yugo couldn’t help but smile, grateful for having the best brother in the Krosmoz. “Thanks, Ad.”

“Well, what are you waiting for? Go get ‘er, Tiger.”

Rolling his eyes playfully, the king had to stifle down a snort at Adamaï’s antics. He was usually so serious and composed, if he didn’t know him as well as he did, he might’ve been taken aback by the dragon’s many different sides. As it were, however, he was more than used to it.

Brown eyes glancing over to the wilting flower staring off into space right next to him, Yugo set his mind back on the task at hand. When he called out to her and she actually seemed startled by the intensity in his voice, he had to force himself to dial it back down a bit, instead opting for a friendlier, more casual approach.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.”

Her heart still beating a little faster than usual, Amalia quickly shook her head to snap out of her trance. “It… It’s okay, Yugo. I was just lost in thought…”

The king bit back a retort about how she seemed to be lost in thought a lot lately and plunged ahead towards his goal with unwavering determination. “Are you busy these days?”

The doll blinked, confused. “Ehrm… not really? I mean, I still have to tend to my garden, but ever since the kids started their training, I don’t have to go to Glip and Baltazar’s lessons, so I guess that leaves me with much more free time.”

“Great!” He beamed, and that alone was enough to send a flutter to Amalia’s heart, the sweet rhythm it now beat a stark contrast to the anxious tempo of the last few days. “Then are you free to go out with me?”

It was like hearing bells, those words alone awakening her from the restless slumber she had fallen under. As the almost forgotten thrill of anticipation danced through her fingertips and slowly made its way all over her body, the doll’s eyes twinkled. “Go out? You mean, like when you took me to the beach, or to see the village?”

The grin never leaving his face, Yugo nodded, a newfound sense of hope finding its way into his heart. It was incredible how Amalia’s entire demeanour changed at the prospect of adventure. Sometimes he still struggled to believe a girl like her, one that cherished the call to adventure about as much as he and Adamaï did, was even real.

Amalia, who was already at the edge of her seat at the prospect of leaving the palace walls, which had become all the more stifling after her last encounter with Efrim, as each time she turned around a corner she feared she would stumble into him; suddenly felt her cheeks grow hot when Yugo leaned in close into her personal space, his hair brushing the side of her face.

And yet, despite the way her heart was hammering in her chest at the close proximity, it still stopped when he whispered into the shell of her ear, “Only this time, we’ll be leaving Oma Island.”

.......................................................................................................................

With a pained groan and weak knees, Amalia stumbled forward and onto the ground on all fours, using her hands for support. She grimaced as the familiar dry heaving raked her body, though, thankfully, nothing came out. Yugo came to her aid, crouching down by her side and rubbing soothing circles on her back as she recovered. She could feel the bandages against her bare skin.

“What is it with you Eliatropes and completely ignoring my more than justified refusal to go through your portals?” She whined pitifully, the somersaults in her stomach gradually subsiding.

“Hey, look at the bright side.” Yugo tried to console her with his never-ending optimism—most of the time, Amalia found that quality of his to be adorable and inspiring; now it was just plain annoying. “Before you know it, you’ll be able to go through portals no problem!”

“Nora said the exact same thing the other day and my answer still hasn’t changed.” The doll grumbled, making a face as she wiped drool off her face with the back of her hand.

That got Yugo’s attention, or rather, the implications behind her words.

“You’ve gone through one of Nora’s portals? When?”

Suddenly, the reason the Divine Doll’s mahogany complexion paled had nothing to do with her upset stomach. Silently cursing herself for her slip of the tongue, Amalia hastily tried to stand up as she shrugged the matter off, “O-oh! Y-you know, the other day. It was nothin—woah!” Unfortunately for her, she had stood up too fast while her body was still recovering, causing a dizzy spell to overtake her and send her tumbling down.

At least, that was what Amalia was expecting. Instead, she collided against something firm and warm. Her brow furrowed in confusion, she blindly pawed at the solid surface she had stumbled into, her eyes widening when two strong arms snaked around her waist. Looking up, she was startled to find herself face-to-face with Yugo—literally—, who didn’t waste any time catching and pulling her close to him when it looked like she was about to fall down.

A soft blush crept up on both of their cheeks as they stared deep into each other’s eyes, brown orbs meeting their counterpart and refusing to break the contact. They were so close their noses almost touched, and their warm breaths mingled. Ironically, the feeling of Yugo’s warm exhales tickling Amalia’s neck was enough to make her shiver. Neither noticed when they began to lean in close, their eyes slowly fluttering shut.

Just as they were about to close the distance, however, the doll’s eyes snapped open in shock, embarrassment coursing through her veins as she abruptly remembered she had just been dry heaving and, even though she didn’t actually throw up, she couldn’t help but feel self-conscious about her breath. But even as she awkwardly broke the embrace Yugo had her in and he sent her an equally sheepish grin at the same time as he rubbed the back of his head nervously, a small part of Amalia couldn’t help but wonder what would have happened hadn’t she pulled away at the last moment.

Her thoughts swirling, she almost didn’t hear the Eliatrope King when he said, “A-anyway.” He cleared his throat. Was she imagining things, or did his voice sound a little strained right now? “S-sorry about that, Amalia. I know you really hate portals but, as you know, it’s the only way to make it to the village.”

She snapped to attention when the meaning of his words finally registered in her mind.

“Oh!” She so eloquently exclaimed. She shrugged, pretending to be a lot more unaffected by the whole thing than she actually was. “W-well, it can’t be helped, I suppose. I’d just wish I didn’t have to go through an Eliatrope portal every other day.”

“Ah, but that’s no trouble at all!” Yugo exclaimed, earning himself an odd look from Amalia as the two of them fell into an easy march in the direction of the Eliatrope village. “We could always just get you a house at the village, that way you wouldn’t have to go through a portal to get there. See? Problem solved!”

In response, the doll just snorted at his antics, shaking her head while she waved the mere notion off with one hand. “Oh, no. No way. Forget it.”

“Why? It’s the perfect solution!”

“Because,” she sent him a pointed yet playful look, “I would still have to use portals to go to the palace. It’s literally the same problem but backwards!”

The king pretended to consider it, making a show of tapping a finger against his chin pensively as he looked upwards in thought. “I suppose you’re right.” He finally admitted with an exaggerated shrug, causing Amalia to try and stifle her giggles behind her hands.

“Though, now that I think about it, it would also pose another problem.” He added, his tone never losing the levity befitting of the conversation.

“Really now? And what do you suggest that is, Your Majesty?”

“Why, Lady Amalia! Isn’t it obvious?” He leaned closer into her personal space, never stopping his march, capturing her full attention as she looked up at him in wonder.

The impish glint in his brown eyes softened into something undeniably affectionate when she breathed out, “What is it?”

“I wouldn’t be able to see you every day. I would miss you terribly.”

Yugo surprised even himself with the sincerity of that statement, for he realised he meant each and every word he said. He had grown so accustomed to Amalia being a fixed feature in his life, that the mere idea of not seeing her every day filled him with dread and a strong sense of longing. In fact, while the doll stared back at him—her doe-like eyes glimmering and her round cheeks flushed with colour—, the unbearable urge to reach out and close the distance between them threatened to consume him.

He was about to take her hands when Bartoloblé’s jovial voice broke them out of their stupor. Whatever fragile yet tangible moment between them was now lost.

“King Yugo, Lady Amalia!” He greeted them, making his way over to them even as he carried a basket full of freshly baked bread under one arm. “It is always a pleasure to see you! But, what brings you here today? Another meeting with the other Council members?”

He used his free hand to jab his thumb in the direction of the Eliatrope temple. Now that Amalia was paying attention, she finally realised they had reached their destination, they just needed to climb up the stairs leading to the main square.

“Gotta warn you, though. Pretty sure the only members around are Mina and Phaeris, and they seemed to be locked into a pretty intense prayer last time I checked.”

Yugo raised a hand with a smile while the doll nodded by his side. “That’s perfectly fine, Bartoloblé. Thanks anyway. I was just about to show Amalia around, there’s this place I’ve been meaning to take her to.”

The baker perked up, his own grin growing. “Oh, I see!” He rummaged through his basket before picking up a loaf of bread he extended to his king and their divine guest. “Would you like to take some for the road?” His expression deflated slightly when his leader just shook his head instead.

“That’s quite alright, old friend. There’s plenty of food where we’re going.”

Although it took him a moment, the Eliatrope baker recovered fast, the smile back on his face. After putting the baked goods back in his basket, he tilted his chef hat in their direction before going his way. “Well, in that case, I’ll let you be. I still gotta deliver these,” he pointed at the basket, “to my customers. Until next time!”

As Bartoloblé climbed up the stairs and began his tour around town to deliver his customers’ orders, after waving him goodbye, Yugo and Amalia resumed their own walk. The Eliatrope King’s words replaying in her mind, her brow furrowed in interest, the Sadida Doll couldn’t help but ask, “Yugo?”

He hummed in response.

“Where exactly are we going?”

He chuckled. “I told you, we’re leaving Oma Island for a bit.”

“Yes, I know that. But I mean, where are we going if it’s not on Oma Island? Isn’t it dangerous to leave the island while the Twelvians still haven’t fully accepted you? And, most importantly, how are we even going to leave the island? As far as I’m concerned, we don’t have recall potions…”

Even as she spat her rapid-fire questions, the two of them never stopped walking, absentmindedly, though not any less kindly, greeting the villagers as they remarked on their king and the doll’s presence. As Yugo enthusiastically returned a kid’s wave, he glanced down at Amalia from the corner of his eye in amusement. Unable to contain himself, he chuckled, “You know, those are an awful lot of questions… I don’t think I’ll be able to remember them all.”

“Yugo!” Amalia chided, her hands on her hips and a ridiculously cute pout on her lips. “Come on, I’m serious!”

“I know, Amalia. I’m sorry, I just couldn’t resist.” He admitted, his palms up in surrender. “I’d really wish I could tell you where we’re going…”

“But…?” Amalia deadpanned, her arms crossed as she arched an expectant eyebrow at him. There was always a ‘but.’

“But I really want it to be a surprise.” He said at last, and his earnest response alongside the ridiculously cute sheepish smile he was giving her was enough to melt away her resolve to be more firm with him and not give in until she had her answers.

As much as Amalia wanted to throw a hissy fit and demand the truth, she was powerless to stop the flutter in her chest at the king’s heartfelt attempts at doing something nice for her. She was always enveloped by this warm, wonderful feeling whenever Yugo showed how much he cared for her.

She really couldn’t have asked for a better friend.

Still, she couldn’t just let him see how genuinely touched she was by his thoughtfulness so, putting on her best haughty act, she harrumphed and made the enormous effort of looking away from him. “Can you at least tell me how we’re going to make it to this mysterious place of yours?”

Even without looking at him, she could sense his nonchalant shrug. “The way all Eliatropes go anywhere, I suppose.”

Immediately, her eyes snapped open in alarm. Her brown eyes blazing and an accusatory finger aimed straight at him, she whirled around so fast towards him, Yugo had no choice but to recoil in surprise. “Oh, Shukrute no! I already had to psych myself up to go through two of your portals today, I’m not going through any more!”

It was her turn to feel disarmed when he just smiled innocently back at her, despite finding himself, quite literally, in the face of her righteous fury. “Hey, hey. It’s okay, Amalia. I’m not making you go through another one of my portals today until it’s time to go home, I promise.”

She blinked back at him, her scowl softening into confusion. “Then… what do you mean when you say we’ll be travelling the way all Eliatropes do?”

Instead of answering, the dirty-blond boy just let an amused yet fond grin overtake his features, and used one hand enveloped in dark cloth to point upwards while the other took Amalia’s hand and gave it an encouraging squeeze. Puzzlement still evident in her features, the doll chose to, once again, trust her friend, and limited herself to following the direction his finger was pointing at, even when it meant she had to crane her neck to get a better look.

When her eyes settled on what Yugo had been pointing at and realisation washed all over her, the Divine Doll couldn’t help but gasp in surprise, her mouth agape.

“The portals…” She murmured, her voice tinged with awe.

That simple gesture had confirmed her suspicions from back when she first visited the village. Floating high above her were the oval-shaped, mirror-like artefacts she believed to be portals, and Yugo had just proven her right. Unlike an Eliatrope’s own portals, however, these didn’t seem to be made out of wakfu, something that would disappear if its wielder didn’t concentrate hard enough, but they appeared to be a fixed feature of the town. Even at a distance, Amalia could make out the different landscapes shown on the other side of them, beckoning their patrons to visit a whole new world.

Even now, they seemed to be buzzing with activity, if the never-ending blue streaks zipping through one portal to the next was any indication. Still, even though that answered several of her questions, it posed many others.

Luckily for her, Yugo seemed to have developed the uncanny ability to read her mind. So he wasted no time in providing an explanation to her unspoken questions.

“Those,” he started, pointing at the gates above, “are our Zaap Portals. Chibi and Grougal actually came up with the idea long ago.”

“But… you’re Eliatropes.” Amalia pointed out, finally looking at him. Though her forest green eyebrows were still knitted in confusion. “Your most basic ability is creating portals. Why would you need them?”

“Everybody has limits, Amalia.” He told her gently. “After all, you can’t grow your plants if there’s no workable ground, right?”

The doll thought to herself she could grow plants out of stone if there was enough wakfu to channel, but Yugo had a point. If she didn’t detect life going on around her, then her attempts at using her magic would be futile. So she just nodded along.

The king gestured back at the portals. “Well, this is our limit. The more powerful and experienced an Eliatrope is, the further their portals will take them. But there are distances that just can’t be covered. So, in order to save us the trouble of having to create long strings of portals to reach certain places, Chibi and Grougal found a way to replicate our magic and expand its range until it became some sort of teleporting gate.

“It’s our main use of transportation for travelling long-distance. Although it’s true certain characteristics in its design mean there are limitations.”

“Limitations?” Amalia tilted her head. “Like what?”

“You see, unlike our portals, which can take us wherever as long as it’s not too far away, Zaap Portals have… How do I say this?” He mumbled to himself, bringing his hand to cup his chin as he considered his words. He snapped his fingers as the perfect way to explain it came to mind. “Let’s just say it’s a bit like a trade-off.”

“A trade-off?” The doll couldn't help but feel she was only repeating what Yugo said.

He nodded enthusiastically, the ears of his hat moving along with his head. “Precisely.”

“What do you trade?”

“In this case, in exchange for the portal being always functional, it loses its range. Sure, it can take us further away than our own magic, but the places it leads to are fewer.”

“So, you’re saying the Zaap Portal might be able to take you to Bonta, for example…” Amalia started, rubbing her temple as she tried to make sense of it all.

“For example, yes.”

“But, it might lead you only to Bonta. Unlike your magic, which can take you practically anywhere as long as it’s not too far. Is that it? Did I get it right?”

“That is precisely it, Amalia.”

“So, how far exactly are we going, if we have to use the Zaap?” She asked, her head tilting up to stare up at the portal again.

“Pretty far.”

The doll deadpanned, flashing her friend an unimpressed look. She was getting really tired of his whole enigmatic, mysterious schtick. Would it kill him to give her a straight answer? Sweet Sadida, he was a demigod! Being a bit more straight-forward couldn’t possibly hurt.

Even though she already knew what he’d say, she still ventured, her arms crossed in annoyance. “Is that all you’re going to do all day? Give me clipped answers?” Groaning exasperatedly, she couldn’t deny the sudden urge to wring his pretty little neck when he said:

“Pretty much, yeah.”

“Yugo!” She screeched, her face flushed from anger. With her hands balled at her hips, the Divine Doll had half a mind not to summon a small tendril to flick him on the forehead. Her pout deepened when all he did was laugh, loud and unrestrained, and place his hands on her shoulders to calm her down.

Much to her chagrin, all her previous anger melted away the second he grabbed her chin with his thumb and forefinger and gently guided her face upwards to meet his gaze. The smile he flashed her was almost blinding.

And here she thought the two things one should never look directly at were the sun and Sadida… Somebody should add the Eliatrope King’s smile to the list. Really, for safety purposes.

“I’m sorry, Amalia.” He said, his voice a soft murmur that nonetheless resonated from his chest. The doll wondered idly if she would be able to feel the tremors through her fingertips if she were to place her hands on his chest. “I promise, I’ll answer all your questions once we’ve arrived. I just really want to surprise you.”

Later that day, the young Sadida would reminisce on her actions and wonder what in the world possessed her to utter the words that left her mouth:

“Well, we’ll never get to that if we don’t make it through the portal first, right?” Then, a rare moment of clarity allowed her to momentarily break away from the pair of eyes staring intently at her, and to focus back on their way of transportation long enough to ask, “How are we going to get there, though? Should I summon a vine to lift us up?”

Just as the words left her mouth, a small gasp followed, caused by the sudden warmth of Yugo snaking his arms around her waist once more and pulling her close, their bodies flush against each other. The king’s answer was barely above a whisper. “I think I have an idea.”

Before Amalia could so much as drunkenly question what he meant, she was startled by the unexpected breach in her connection to nature. Looking down in alarm, her brown orbs widened like saucers when she finally realised her feet were no longer touching the ground, and neither were Yugo’s, as a matter of fact.

But even more surprising was watching the ground grow further and further away from them, the startling realisation that they were floating shocking Amalia to her core. She whirled her head to stare back at the king questioningly, her mouth agape, but he just shrugged and offered her a roguishly charming smile that caused warmth to erupt all over her face and chest.

Not helped at all by the wink he sent her.

“I might have a few tricks up my sleeve still, My Lady.”

“And I’m guessing one of them is flying?” She was genuinely surprised by her own coherence, given the circumstances. She had honestly forgotten he could do it.

His charming smile turned the slightest bit smug. “Maybe.”

“But… how?”

“Ah, that…” Yugo’s expression faltered, looking unsure for the first time all day. “Well, a magician can’t go revealing his secrets just like that, can he?”

The doll’s mesmerised expression morphed into confusion, her eyes squinting in disbelief as if that would help her discern the meaning behind Yugo’s words. Judging by the way he reacted, there was something he wasn’t telling her, but what?

Before her mind could linger on the topic, though, the king distracted her when his expression lit up as he took notice of something. He took one of Amalia’s hands in his and held it tightly while the other remained on her waist, though not without pulling her closer to him—if that was even possible.

“Ah, looks like we’ve arrived, Amalia. Are you ready?”

Just as he asked, Amalia turned her head to the direction he was looking at, and came to realise they were now floating with a portal right beside them. From what she could see reflected on its pristine surface, there was quite the lush forest on the other side. That immediately sent a pleasant thrill down her spine, the idea of being closer to nature bringing a certain twinkle to her eyes.

She almost dreaded to ask, “...am I going to throw up again?”

“I thought you only dry-heaved now?” Yugo couldn’t help but tease her. His chuckles soon turned sheepish when the petite wild beauty in his arms glowered at him, clearly unamused. He coughed awkwardly. “Right. Sorry. Um… I can’t say for certain? I mean, we Eliatropes certainly don’t have any trouble but…”

“But you don’t have trouble going through your portals in the first place.” Amalia finished for him. She let out a heavy sigh, resigned. “Come on, let’s get this over with. There’s a whole new bunch of innocent bushes I have yet to traumatise by puking all over them.”

“I’ll be right there beside you to help you write the apology notes.” He whispered jokingly, and this time he did manage to make her laugh.

Great Goddess above, her giggling was like hearing bells chiming in the wind. The things he wouldn’t do just to hear her laugh… If she noticed the way he held her closer to him even when it wasn’t necessary, she didn’t show. Instead, right as the Eliatrope warned her they were about to go through the portal, she closed her eyes shut in anticipation and hugged him tighter herself. Yugo’s eyes widened slightly and his heartbeat quickened considerably at the sensation of Amalia flush against him, their bodies moulding into each other seamlessly and her forest green ponytail tickling his nose. He had to force himself not to get carried away and inhale her natural scent—flowers in bloom and sunshine peeking through the forest treetops.

And so, a shiver running down his spine as she squeezed him just a little tighter while she mentally prepared herself, Yugo took that last metaphorical step into the portal with Amalia in his arms.

......................................................................................................................

“Amalia, you can look now. We’re here.” Yugo’s soft murmur against the crown of her head broke her out of her trance.

Eyes snapping open, she pulled away from his embrace and looked around. Sure enough, they were in the middle of a forest. The presence of aspens, birches and wild flowers emanated a completely different aura from the tropical plants back at Oma. She would have immediately begun to take it all in, to let nature wash over her and reveal its secrets to her, if it weren’t for the fact that she was far too busy being flabbergasted.

“I… I don’t feel sick!” She exclaimed, incredulous, looking down at her hands with the same level of urgency as if they were covered in blood. Even more shocking was realising she was standing proud and tall instead of on wobbly feet or, even worse, tumbling down onto the ground to quite literally spill her guts. She wasn’t nauseous at all!

“Huh. It looks like you only have trouble going through one of our portals.” Yugo observed, intrigued. He placed one bandaged hand on his chin, pensively. “I wonder why that is…”

“Personally, I only really care about the fact that my food is still inside my stomach, thank you very much.” The doll quipped sarcastically.

Eyes darting all over the space, she finally allowed herself to plant her feet firmly on the ground and let her connection to nature do the talking. She smiled. The plant-life here seemed to be thriving and in perfect health.

Once she had familiarised herself with the area and its vegetation, she asked, her back to Yugo. “So, what’s the plan? Where are we?”

No sooner had the words left her mouth, the grin was back on Yugo’s face. He took her by the hand and gently spun her around until she was facing the opposite direction, where she could discern what looked like a clearing from behind the Eliatrope’s figure. Raising herself to her tiptoes in curiosity, she peeked over his shoulder, her interest piqued by what appeared to be a small village located down the hill.

“This,” the king spread his arms wide, letting go of hers, and gestured around them, “is the Forbidden Forest. And that,” he jabbed a thumb over his shoulder, in the direction of the village, “is our destination for today, Emelka.”

Rather than say anything, the Divine Doll just let her eyes dart around the space, and Yugo watched as she walked around, her hand outstretched as she traced gentle lines along the tree trunks while she walked. For a moment, the king just allowed himself to take her in. The curious tilt of her head as nearby tofus sang from their nests or even flew around. The way her fingers and toes curled and uncurled in pleasure at the feeling of the different kinds of soil and bark beneath her feet and fingertips. The breeze weaving through her silky hair, making her emerald locks blend in with the greenery of the forest. The supremely serene smile that stretched over her lips at the new sensations raking her body… It was simply breathtaking.

She was breathtaking.

Right as the Eliatrope came back to his senses and was about to self-combust over the direction his thoughts had taken, the doll called out to him, causing him to muster every ounce of power he possessed not to make the way he almost jumped out of his skin too obvious.

“As much as I love being surrounded by nature,” she started tentatively but sincerely, sending her friend a knowing look. “I can’t help but feel uneasy over being in a place known as the ‘Forbidden Forest’.” She made sure to emphasise the words to get her point across. “Even the plants tell me to be careful, as there are dangers lurking around every corner…”

“Yeah, the locals say the wildlife here is unpredictable.” Yugo admitted sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head. “But don’t worry, Amalia. We’re not going to stay here for long.”

“You said we’re going to Emelka, right?” When he nodded, she continued. “Then why not arrive there in the first place? Or is it a matter or range, as you told me earlier?”

“That does play a part in it, yes.” He began to march in the direction of the entrance to Emelka, Amalia right by his side every step of the way, her focus set intently on him. His eyes trailing upwards, he noticed the dark clouds hovering over them. It looked like it was going to rain. “But it’s also because it gives us some coverage and helps us go by unnoticed until we reach the village.”

The Sadida Doll frowned in confusion. “What do you mean by that?”

He shrugged, but Amalia knew him well enough by now to be able to tell the action was forced, resigned. Not at all like the earnest optimism and nonchalance so characteristic of Yugo as long as his family and people’s safety wasn’t compromised. So she wasn’t surprised by what he said next, but that didn’t mean her heart didn’t break for him. “You know Twelvians aren’t exactly thrilled to have us around, Amalia.”

The way he said it, so casually, without even a hint of sadness or even anger in his voice, it was like he was just stating an undeniable fact of life. And, much to her chagrin, right now he was right. She wanted to comfort him so badly, to say the right words to get him to smile and face everything with the positive attitude that never failed to lift her spirits up when she was down. But she found herself drawing a blank.

Still, she had to try. For Yugo.

Yugo was startled out of his thoughts by a warm hand being placed on his shoulder. Looking up in surprise, he turned his face to find Amalia giving him a small, tentative smile, her brown eyes shining with empathy. Cursing himself for letting his own insecurities get to the better of him and making her sad, he rushed to plaster a smile on his face to put her at ease.

“It’s okay, though. There’s a reason why we’re coming to Emelka in the first place.”

That reminded Amalia of something he said before. “Is that why you know what the locals have to say about the forest, because you have talked to them? Yugo, have you been to Emelka before?”

She gasped when he just hummed softly and nodded in response, “But—! When? How?!” She stammered, trying to wrap her head around the notion. “I thought you guys never left Oma Island!”

“We haven’t left Oma Island in a while.” The king corrected matter-of-factly, one finger raised in her direction. “When we just arrived here, we actually did quite a bit of exploring as we searched for the perfect place to settle down, especially Ad and I.” Then, he shrugged, this time, more genuinely. “And, let’s face it, even when we started settling on Oma, there’s no way Ad and I would be able to resist the urge to go out and explore.”

“Wait, so Adamaï has been to Emelka, too?”

“Uh-huh. And that’s also the reason why I’m telling you we need to keep a low profile. Emelka might be more accepting of us, but seeing the Eliatrope King and his dragon twin out and about was still a major shock even for them.”

“Is that why you’re dressed like that today?” Amalia finally found the courage to ask, staring up at her friend up and down. …and feeling her cheeks grow hot the more she lingered in certain places.

As her eyes coursed over the king’s appearance, the doll’s mind briefly flashed back to her startled reaction when he came to pick her up earlier that day, and her cheeks coloured in embarrassment over her poorly concealed surprise. It wasn’t like Yugo looked bad—quite the contrary, really—, it was just that she was so used to seeing him in his battle suit and cloak ensemble that seeing him wear anything else was a tad jarring.

After all, the last time Yugo changed clothes was when he dressed up for the banquet at Bonta. At least then there was a reason for his sudden change in wardrobe, even if seeing him looking so sharp and elegant wasn’t any good to her poor Ogrine heart. Even now, although his outfit was far less glamorous, it still caused her heart to do somersaults in her ribcage.

Indeed, instead of his usual attire, Yugo was wearing far simpler clothing. She briefly wondered if perhaps he had taken a page out of her book and come up with his own adventuring outfit. He wore a simple, sleeveless amber shirt that clung to his sculpted physique, highlighting every chiselled line of his torso and forcing Amalia to reluctantly tear her gaze away so as to not look like a creep. Contrasting the form-fitting shirt were a pair of dark cyan pantaloons, their overall shape much more loose and less restrictive in their movements than the shirt clinging to his skin. Covering his arms, going from his knuckles up to his shoulders, and bare feet were a series of black bandages that wouldn’t have looked out of place in a Xelor’s wardrobe.

At first, Amalia had been taken aback and confused by their presence, until Yugo chuckled fondly at her stunned reaction and leaned in slightly to whisper in her ear, “My tattoos.”

Her mouth formed an ‘o’ shape at the reminder, her mind going back to the many swirls going up and down his arms and how eye-catching they would be. Thinking back now that she knew Yugo wanted to keep a low profile, it made perfect sense he would cover them up. Mesmerising as they were—not helped by the way in which they accentuated the curves of his every muscle—, those things stood out like a sore thumb. Not even an Iop would buy that he was a Sacrier and those were his tattoos.

Then again, one might think bandaging them up was overkill, seeing as his body remained perfectly concealed most of the time by the large poncho reaching past his knees that matched in colour with his pants. Completing the ensemble was Yugo’s own version of the cute hats that seemed to be customary amongst his people. Unlike his cloak, which only had those pointy ‘ears’, the hat was closer to being an amalgamation between Qilby and Glip’s. It wasn’t as long as the eldest Eliatrope’s, but it at least possessed a large tail ending in a tuft of whitish fur and the stumps on top of it looked more like ears, rather than horns.

Despite the drastic change in wardrobe, most of the time Amalia couldn’t help but feel like it showed even less of the king than his full-bodied suit. At least now she got to see the back of his head, she supposed.

His cheeks growing hot under the doll’s extensive scrutiny, Yugo looked to the side, nervously scratching his cheek with one finger. “Yeah, that’s right. I found wearing more casual clothing makes it easier to blend in.”

Before Amalia could so much as get a word in, she was taken by surprise when a sense of sudden realisation seemed to dawn over the Eliatrope. Just as she was about to ask about it, he held up a finger to her, asking her for patience, and slid his poncho open, revealing a sizable pocket sewn into the fabric.

“Here, I thought it’d be better for you to slip into it.”

Amalia’s jaw dropped. Quickly looking up and down her entire length, she mumbled. “Thanks for the compliment, but I don’t think I fit in there.”

The Eliatrope looked at her strangely for a moment before the meaning behind her words seemed to click in, his mouth contorting into an ‘o’ shape. He shook his head with a chuckle.

“No, no. Sorry. That’s not what I mean.”

“Then what do you mean?”

“I was about to tell you.” He flashed her a pointed yet friendly look that made her roll her eyes. “I was actually thinking that you could shapeshift into your doll form and get inside the pocket. That way, we wouldn’t risk people seeing you and recognising you as the new Divine Doll.”

“But… Isn’t that a little unnecessary?” Amalia countered, tilting her head to the side. Then, she gestured to the length of her, and Yugo felt like smacking himself when his eyes lingered on her form just a little too long. “I mean, look at me! Unlike my sisters, I’m actually indistinguishable from a regular Sadida woman. Now that I think about it, wasn’t that the reason we met Master Joris at all? Because a bunch of Cra saw me and thought you had a Sadida with you?”

The dirty-blond man’s brow furrowed in confusion at the mention of her sisters, but he let it go with a shake of his head. Now wasn’t the time for that. “Well, that’s true. But people are going to grow suspicious if they see me with a Sadida, of all people. That’s why I think it’s better you hide, at least until we reach our destination.”

“But why? If we go together like this, they have no reason to think we’re anything but a Sadida and a non-believer.” The doll pressed on, incapable of making sense out of Yugo’s hesitance. “In fact, I’d say it’s much easier to tell you’re an Eliatrope with that hat on. If you just took it off—.”

As she talked, the Divine Doll reached out to push back the hat in question and take it off of Yugo’s head. Only for her outstretched hand to halt in mid-air when Yugo gripped at it tightly, his fingers sinking into her skin to the point she could feel his nails even through her wristbands. With a startled gasp, she looked at him in question, only for the brown of her irises to contract in fright at the sight of his own manic look.

He looked frazzled and alarmed, his brow pinched in a fierce expression, to the point one would think Amalia had just attacked him instead of simply reaching out for his hat. The fire in his eyes was so intense, the doll couldn’t help the frightened shiver from running down her spine. Over the months, she believed she had become quite familiar with all the expressions the king was capable of pulling. The incredulous raised eyebrow and subsequent exasperated roll of his eyes at his siblings’ antics. The steely glint in his brown eyes whenever he was in the middle of his kingly duties or some kind of crisis arose. The subtle but friendly upwards curl of his lips whenever he interacted with his youngest subjects. The knowing looks he and Adamaï would exchange, belying their closeness. And the immensely fond look and incredibly soft smile he had plastered on his face whenever he interacted with her.

That look was so intense, Amalia always found herself helpless against the warm feeling that would spread all over her body, starting from her chest and consuming her completely. Its warmth always spread like a wildfire, and she was nothing but kindling.

The look he now had on his face was nothing like that. Where once was fire, now it was as if an ice cold shard had pierced her heart, freezing her to her core.

His self-preservation instincts overtaking him, Yugo didn’t even register catching Amalia’s arm and gripping it tightly, his mind going on overdrive as it focused on just keeping her away from his hat. Despite the minimal exertion, he still found himself panting slightly, the reaction all but programmed into his brain. When he finally came to his senses, blinking a few times to regain his bearings, he was puzzled to find himself clutching a wrist tightly, only for horror and shame to settle in when his eyes travelled down the length of the arm and came face-to-face with Amalia.

Those beautiful, doe-like orbs of hers held the same amount of fear and shock as a deer being haunted by a Cra. Pupils wide and frantic as it remained paralysed, subconsciously embracing its upcoming demise as it watched the arrow approach, sealing its fate. His heart throbbed as he realised he had caused that reaction. He was the one who put the fear in her eyes, even if he would never mean to.

Guilt holding his heart in a vice grip, its thorns piercing through it, Yugo let go of her arm as fast as if it burned, muttering and tripping over himself as he tried to apologise. The painful pangs only resonated louder, like bells in a belltower, when all Amalia did in response was tentatively bring her forearm closer to her, placing it against her chest as her other hand soothingly caressed her sore wrist. The image reminded Yugo of Harebourg digging his digits so deep into her skin it bruised, and he immediately hated himself for repeating the Count’s mistakes.

“It…It’s okay.” She murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. “I’m sorry.”

“Amalia…” Yugo called out to her, opening his mouth to say something, anything, but his words died in his throat when she glanced back at him with those big, sad eyes of hers. Inhaling sharply, he brought a hand to the back of his head to rub his neck in discomfort, trying to find the words. Eventually, he let out a heavy sigh.

“Amalia, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you.”

“You didn’t scare me…” She tried to say, but it didn’t sound convincing even to her ears. She winced, biting down on her bottom lip. “Okay, maybe a little.”

“I know, and I am so, so sorry about that.” Yugo insisted, taking a step closer to her. He had to suppress a relieved sigh from escaping his lips when she didn’t flinch away from the action. “It’s just…” Much to his chagrin, his mouth clamped shut yet again; he had trouble finding the right words to explain things to her without having to explain too much.

Amalia just waited for him to elaborate, cradling her arm to her chest, her interest piqued. She blinked down in surprise when, instead of answering, the Eliatrope just extended his own hand out to her, his palm facing upwards. She looked back at him, perplexed, but she finally understood everything when he simply beckoned her with his fingers.

She placed her hand into his. Despite everything, just the gentle touch of Yugo softly caressing her wrist was enough for all the previous tension to melt away.

She was so busy trying not to melt as well she almost didn’t hear him when he continued, “I really am sorry for startling and hurting you like that, Amalia. That was uncalled for.” He started, and just when the doll was about to say something in return, he stopped her by raising his free hand. “But, you see, even though you are right my hat doesn’t really do a good job at hiding the fact that I’m an Eliatrope, taking it off wouldn’t really help either.”

The Divine Doll took a step forward, closing the distance between them just a little more. “How come? You guys must look indistinguishable from your usual non-believer without them!”

The Eliatrope King tilted his head from one side to the other in a so-so motion, a small grimace on his lips. “Yes and no. Never mind that, though.” He looked her deep in the eye, making sure he had her full attention. “Amalia, the reason I reacted to you reaching out for my hat like I did is because my people have a very good reason for wearing them. Taking them off in front of somebody else is a sign of deep intimacy, so we don’t feel comfortable being hatless just about everywhere.

“In fact, people we aren’t very close to reaching out for our hats without our consent is seen as very disrespectful in our culture. That’s why I reacted the way I did when you tried to do the same. But you’re not an Eliatrope, and it isn’t like this is common knowledge in the World of Twelve, either. You couldn’t have possibly known. So, again, I’m sorry for reacting the way I have.”

Trying her best to ignore the painful pang in her chest at the implication that she wasn’t as close to Yugo as she had originally thought, the doll forced a small smile to curl at her lips. “No, Yugo; it’s me who should be apologising. Even if I didn’t know about the significance behind it, it was still rude of me to get so close into your personal space and try to push your hat back without asking you first. So, for all it’s worth, I’m sorry, too.”

The king grinned down at her, his heart swelling. “Apology accepted.” He took both of her hands in his and brought them closer to him. “Speaking of asking first… What do you say? Would you be okay with turning into your doll form and staying in my pocket?”

Amalia still looked unsure. “You said it’d only be until we reach our destination, right?”

“That’s right.” He nodded enthusiastically. “It’s not even that long a trek. A thirty minute walk tops.”

Despite her reservations, Amalia eventually gave in with a sigh. She’d be lying if she said her decision wasn’t at all influenced by Yugo’s irresistible Bow Wow eyes. Then again, she supposed it could be worse; even though she hadn’t really been in her doll form for long periods of time since arriving at the World of Twelve, it still felt as natural to her as her current, human form. And so, with a nod and a small smile directed at the Eliatrope, she disappeared behind the familiar puff of smoke.

Yugo waited patiently for the smoke to clear, and when it finally did he couldn’t wipe the happy grin off his face at the sight of the small brown ragdoll at his feet looking expectantly up at him. He couldn’t believe there was a time he had ever been underwhelmed by the sight; Amalia was just so precious, with her big brown eyes, plump little green lips, and the tussled tuft of emerald hair on her head. The more he stared at her, the more he felt a tingle going down his spine.

“Can you at least open your poncho a little so I can get a glimpse of the scenery as we make our way through the village?” Amalia pleaded, and if Yugo already had a hard time denying her anything, now that she was literally an adorable little doll it was practically impossible.

“Of course.” His hands cupped in front of him, he bent down to scoop Amalia up and bring her to his eye-level as he stood back up. “What’s the point in exploring if you don’t get to see anything, am I right?” He winked at her, and he counted the way she giggled at the action and admittedly lame joke as a win.

“Now you’re getting it.” She teased right back.

Sharing one last laugh, Yugo carefully cradled Amalia’s tiny form with one hand while he used the other to open his poncho just enough to be able to put her in his pocket. Once she was close enough, Amalia gathered up her momentum and threw herself headfirst into the pocket, rolling around inside the folded fabric until she managed to straighten herself up enough to remain upright. As she burrowed herself deeper into the pocket, which was far cosier than she had anticipated, she busied herself with her bottom lip, mulling over whether she should ask Yugo the question in her mind or not.

Eventually, seeing as he didn’t just have the guts to ask her to get inside his pocket but actually got away with it, she decided to just go for it. Right after assuring him she was perfectly comfortable where she was, she looked up to him, her eyes glimmering hopefully.

“Yugo?”

“Yes, Amalia?”

“Do… Do you think you could show me what’s underneath your hat? You know, one day. When you feel comfortable with it, of course…”

Her heart, which had been beating frantically out of nervousness over possibly overstepping his boundaries again, began to thud for a completely different reason when his bewildered expression melted into one of his blinding smiles. The softness she associated with their interactions returning to his features.

“I will, Amalia. I promise.”

..........................................................................................................................

From what she could see from inside Yugo’s poncho, Emelka seemed to be a lovely place. Unlike the bustling city of Bonta, with massive buildings and endless streets stretching over the vast space until its very outskirts, the air was calm in Emelka. The streets were wide, to the point she wondered if the small town wasn’t just composed of several buildings sprawled all over the place and the resulting paths gave the illusion of there being streets. Said buildings, while far from being rundown shacks, were quite modest still; simple stone two-story houses protected by a thick layer of hay on their roofs.

The locals were unhurried and placid. Basket-carrying ladies, presumably returning from the market, stopped by their neighbours’ windowsill to partake in some healthy gossip, giggling all the while. Children ran around as they played pretend, picturing themselves as brave little adventurers off on some grand, perilous journey. Merchants, artisans, and business-owners alike welcomed potential customers into their establishments with jovial smiles, loudly announcing their offers.

The more she looked around, the more Amalia understood why Yugo liked this place so much. Although it was true they hadn’t really visited many other nations aside from Oma Island and Bonta, the streets of Emelka were far more similar to the Eliatrope village than the hectic Divine City. Just some normal people going about their day as per usual, without worrying about the intricacies of international diplomacy.

From time to time, she also got a glimpse of how people reacted to the Eliatrope King’s presence. While it was true most of them ignored him for the most part and went on with their days, others did a terrible job at subtly glaring or regarding him with a suspicious glint in their eyes. That was, if they were trying to be subtle at all. For his part, the king remained the epitome of courtesy and cordiality, kindly greeting everyone that so much as crossed his path or locked eyes with him, however brief the exchange was.

Whenever Amalia noticed a particularly intense stare directed at her friend, she couldn’t help but burrow herself deeper into his pocket, hiding herself from view even though her position already meant she was well concealed. She kept wondering if Yugo really held his traditions so close to his heart he couldn’t see the benefits of taking his hat off.

Right as her mind began to trail down that particular train of thought, the doll caught herself and shook her head vehemently to rid herself of it. What was she thinking? Even if she didn’t share the Eliatropes’ beliefs or didn’t always understand them, she owed them that she at least respected them. After all, they had always been very understanding and accommodating of her Sadida nature, her room and garden alone were proof enough of that.

If Yugo said taking his hat off was a big deal, then it was a big deal.

Now that she thought about it, Yugo didn’t outright deny nor confirm whether his people actually looked indiscernible from Twelvian non-believers. Maybe there was a reason why they didn’t take their hats and hoods off, after all…

“We’re almost here, Amalia.” Yugo’s whisper broke her out of her stupor, making her shake her head to regain her focus.

Just as Yugo subtly opened his cloak just enough to allow her to get a better view of their destination, the Divine Doll whirled around in his pocket to discreetly glance over at the place he had been so intent on taking her to. Her eyes widening at the sight.

They were headed straight towards a particularly large white-stone building, with sturdy wooden brackets supporting the blue-tiled roof. It had nothing on the Eliatrope palace or even Sadida’s hut back in his dimension, but it was definitely bigger than most other houses in Emelka. While it was two-stories high as well, this particular building stood out in many other ways. For example, rather than follow the standard design that seemed prevalent in the area, it had several smaller warehouses attached to the main building, though what really caught her eye was the three-story tower on the far right side of it. Even more bewildering was the large bamboo milk jar affixed to the tower; which was just as well, the doll supposed—at least, now she knew they were headed to an eatery of some kind. Right beside the entrance were some stairs leading to what she could only assume was some kind of balcony, although judging by the lack of customers there, she had the feeling that it was a space reserved for the owner and their family. A suspicion that was only strengthened by the presence of a bent tree on the left from where the laundry was hung, swaying in the breeze.

“So this is where you wanted to take me?” Amalia whispered back at Yugo, failing to see what could be so special about this place.

“That’s right. Welcome to the Crispy Gobball Inn, Amalia. Where they serve the best Gobball stew in all of Emelka.”

“But why did you want to bring me here? Just to eat?”

Yugo chuckled, amused. “You’ll see.”

Before the doll could question him further, the Eliatrope had made it to the door. He reached out for the handle and let themselves in. Yugo had hidden Amalia from view once more, so she couldn’t really make out how the place looked on the inside, but she could still hear everything going on around her even through the thick fabric. From the sound of things, the inn’s patrons were a rowdy bunch. Animated conversations, loud cackles, and the clinking of utensils as they moved around their plates filled the room.

And then, something strange happened.

Amalia couldn’t see and, therefore, didn’t understand what was going on, but little by little, everyone quieted down, and the absence of the sound of metal against china indicated they had stopped eating, too. If she were being honest with herself, it was a little unnerving. And even that was nothing compared to the worry she felt when she sensed Yugo tensing up next to her, his muscles clenching in discomfort, even though she had a feeling he was doing his best to maintain an unaffected expression.

And then it dawned on her.

The atmosphere had changed because of him. Regardless of what Yugo said, the people in Emelka were just as wary of the Eliatropes as the rest of the Twelvians. Then, why did he insist they’d be much safer here?

The Divine Doll was broken out of her reverie by the feeling of Yugo relaxing, his chest going up and down in clear relief as the breath he had been holding brushed past his lips. She furrowed her brow, wondering just what in the World of Twelve could have provoked such a drastic change in him, when she perked up at the sound of a deep, caring voice resonating around the room:

“By Enutrof! What’s got y’all so quiet all of a sudden? Just a moment ago, I couldn’t even hear myself think!”

Then, the Enutrof man—because that voice definitely belonged to a man and only an Enutrof would swear by the Flamboyant Golden Dragon’s name—, grew silent as well. Amalia still couldn't see what was happening, but it didn’t take her long to realise he must have definitely noticed Yugo because the Eliatrope warmly greeted him, “Hello, Alibert. Is it a bad time?”

Amalia didn’t have time to register what was happening or even question it, for she suddenly found herself squeezed against Yugo’s chest, flush against his form. And though she certainly wouldn’t mind under different circumstances, she had to admit with a blush, she found it was hard to enjoy the closeness when she was being crushed to death, unable to breathe properly. She pawed desperately at the king’s pectorals, begging him to do something.

“‘Is it a bad time’, you say.” Alibert repeated rhetorically, engulfing Yugo into a tight embrace, blissfully unaware of the pain he was unwittingly inflicting upon the rag doll in his pocket. “You know it’s never a bad time for one of your visits, my boy! If anything, I’d say it’s been too long since you last showed your face around here!”

“Sorry… about that. I’ve been… kinda busy…lately.” Yugo wheezed out, his voice strained. It still amazed him just how strong old Alibert could be, especially considering that, by his own admission, he wasn’t the most devout Enutrof around, so his magic wasn’t as powerful. Seriously, Yugo was quite the seasoned warrior and yet his spine didn’t just threaten to snap in half under the pressure inflicted by the kindly chef’s arms, but his feet weren’t even touching the floor!

Just then, he felt the rustling of rough fabric against his shirt and a small jolt coursed through his body.

Amalia.

Not without some effort, the Eliatrope released one of his arms from Alibert’s hold and, always careful not to reveal the doll’s location within his poncho, lightly tapped the man on the shoulder to get his attention. Once his eyes were on him, he said:

“Alibert… Please…” He managed with some difficulty. “Put me… down. I’m carrying… some precious cargo… with me… today.”

Despite the confused, bushy eyebrow he raised the boy’s way at his words, Alibert obliged him. Loosening his hold on Yugo, he set him firmly on the floor and rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. “Sorry about that, my boy. I got carried away in my excitement, that’s all.” Sending a sideways glance towards the other Enutrof sitting at the bar and pointedly pretending he hadn't just been eavesdropping on their conversation, he lowered his voice and leaned in closer. “So, what’s this ‘precious cargo’ you were talking about?”

Yugo just shook his head, mouthing a silent ‘Let’s talk in private’ at him.

Eyes lighting up in understanding, Alibert nodded and silently gestured for him to follow him. But not before addressing the rest of his customers, all of them watching the reunion unfold right in front of them. “Well, what are y’all waiting for, an invitation? Go on, eat! I worked too hard on that for you to just let it go cold!”

Immediately after he said that, it was as if nothing at all had happened. Everyone gathered turned back to their own lunch and conversations, and soon, the hustle and bustle so typical of restaurants began to fill up the room once more.

His hands on his hips, Alibert rolled his eyes good-naturedly at the scene. “Seriously. Sometimes it feels like no one respects good food anymore…” Then he locked eyes with Yugo and gestured with his head towards a room a little further down the hall, past the kitchen. Right as they walked past the kitchen door, he called out, “Toto, Matou, Tomato! You’re in charge of waiting tables and manning the stove while I’m gone! Remember there’s a pot of stew on the stove, it should be done in about five minutes!”

Alibert and Yugo didn’t stop their march even as three voices echoed after their boss, “On it, chef!”

As soon as they made it to the door, Alibert opened it for the Eliatrope and gestured for him to get inside, following close after him and closing the door behind him. “Sorry it’s probably not as fancy as your own office in your palace, but when one is a humble innkeeper, you gotta make do with what you have.” He said jokingly, crossing his arms over his chest as he watched Yugo peruse the room.

“Trust me, Alibert. Now matter how beautifully furnished my office might be, it’s still the last place I want to be at the end of the day.” Although it was true he actually did most of his paperwork in his room, not to mention the throne and Council rooms.

Indeed, despite its lack of splendour, the Eliatrope King found himself smiling at the simple yet welcoming atmosphere of Alibert’s office. It really wasn’t much, just a middle-sized closet refurbished into a pantry, with the different ingredients the chef used in his dishes overflowing the shelves lining the walls and a simple desk loitered by a stack of papers and similar materials and a chair tucked against the far end of the room.

Still, the sight brought a smile to his lips. It fitted Alibert so well.

“Well, boy, what is it?” Alibert urged him gently, though a hint of impatience belied his genuine curiosity. “What’s got you all so secretive and tightlipped?”

The innkeeper raised an eyebrow, confused, when, without so much as turning to face him, Yugo seemingly opened his poncho to talk to the collar of his shirt in hushed tones. Even though he knew better than to voice his thoughts, Alibert was beginning to seriously consider whether the stress from his royal duties wasn’t messing with his mind and he came all the way to Emelka just to unwind.

It honestly wouldn’t be the first time.

Just then, the Eliatrope seemed to have reached an understanding with his garments, for he turned back around and rummaged inside his clothes as he answered the Enutrof’s previous question, right as he presented him with the most befuddling sight Alibert had ever seen in his life.

“This.” He said, gesturing between the innkeeper and what he held in his hand, which he brought closer to the Enutrof to inspect. “Alibert, this is Amalia. Amalia, this is Alibert.”

Good old Alibert truly had no idea what he was supposed to be looking at, and he had a very good feeling that his astonishment was reflected on his face, given the way he was gaping like a fish. ‘Amalia’, as Yugo called…her, he supposed, was nothing but a rag doll made out of dark brown fabric, with objectively simplistic features—just a sewn mouth, a pair of brown eyes, and a dishevelled tuft of green hair on top of her head. If he were being honest with himself, it was the kind of thing he would expect from a Sadida, and he couldn’t help but think it didn’t belong with someone like the Eliatrope King at all—.

Alibert’s train of thought was abruptly halted when Amalia blinked at him, tilting her head in curiosity, and smiled. Okay, so she was pretty cute. And that in itself wasn’t all that strange, as Sadida dolls, while not alive, were animated by nature. Still, it didn’t explain what Yugo was doing, carrying her around. He seemed to remember hearing some passing Bontarians gossiping about how the Eliatrope King had been blessed by the gods themselves with a Sadida Doll, but if this was what they were talking about, the source of all that commotion preceding that banquet at Bonta he had heard so much about, he had to admit it was a little underwhelming.

Just when he was mulling over how to mask his disappointment without coming off as too obvious or, Enutrof forgive, rude, his thoughts were interrupted by a gust of wind picking up in his office, causing his hat, moustache, and clothes to flutter in the breeze. How was that possible? His office only had one small, round window and he left it closed right before he started preparing his first batch of food for the day! If that wasn’t strange enough, completely out of nowhere, a torrent of pink flower petals began to swirl around the room, the veritable whirlwind of blossoms seemingly concentrating around the doll’s small form.

He chanced a glance the Eliatrope’s way, silently asking if this was all his doing, only for his eyes to widen in shock. Somehow, despite the sheer insanity going on around them, the craziest thing by far had to be how calm and relaxed Yugo seemed over the whole thing, almost as if he had seen it countless times before.

Eventually, after what felt like an eternity but couldn’t have been more than a minute or two, the wind finally died down, the swirling petals slowly falling down the floor. As he followed the king’s gaze towards Amalia, a part of Alibert understood the Eliatrope’s serenity was most likely a result of having dealt with it before.

The other part of Alibert was too busy gawking at what had just happened.

There, standing in the middle of the room at probably a good head taller than he was, her posture perfectly straight while she held her hands in front of her—her fidgety fingers betraying her nervousness—, was a lovely Sadida young lady. Clad in a simple yet elegant beige pants and white, sleeveless top ensemble, with white wristbands and orange, leafy anklets that matched the large leaf sewn into her midsection. Her silky emerald hair, tied up in a high ponytail, perfectly framed her delicate face, making the small smile on her lips all the sweeter.

However, Alibert wasn’t the only one intently staring at the person in front of him. For her part, Amalia’s scrutiny was just as intense, if slightly subtler by virtue of her not gaping at the chef as openly as he was her.

The first thing that came to mind when the doll finally laid eyes on the man was that she could hardly believe he was supposed to be an Enutrof. Seriously, if it weren’t because she distinctly heard him swear by The Miser’s name, she would have assumed he was an Eliatrope who had somehow managed to make a living way outside of Oma’s confines. Either that, or he was just a non-believer which, frankly, was far more likely.

While she had to admit her experience with Enutrof’s followers was limited to the Lord of the Spoils himself and the Enutrof King and his entourage, Alibert looked nothing like them. Which was a feat in itself, since Enutrof looked like a dragon made out of treasure chests and his worshippers were shovel-carrying old people. But there was absolutely nothing about Alibert that brought an Enutrof to mind. Rather than looking like a withered and wrinkled old man, Alibert could easily pass off as someone in his forties, early fifties at most. From his strong build, top-heavy posture that remained perfectly straight rather than hunched over, his blemish-free skin, and the bushy, brunette moustache framing his upper lip—the latter being a stark contrast to the shock white hair all Enutrofs sported—there was simply nothing that resembled Enutrofs as she knew them in the man in front of her.

While his general physique was misleading enough, it wasn’t the only reason why Amalia had a hard time believing he wasn’t actually an Eliatrope. Besides the brunette mane that was so prevalent amongst Yugo’s people, what really caught the doll’s eye was the giant chef hat on his head, which didn’t really look all that different from your regular Eliatrope hat. As its endtail reached down his back, it matched Yugo’s almost perfectly! All it was missing were a pair of ears.

Still, she chose to keep her thoughts to herself for the time being. There’d be plenty of chances to ask about his peculiar appearance once they’d moved past the formalities. And so, her mind made up and her polite grin widening just a little, Amalia spoke, her voice clear like a stream in spring. “Good morning, Mister Alibert.” Much like she had done when she had first met Yugo and Master Joris, she leaned her body forward 90º as a sign of respect. “As Yugo said, my name is Amalia. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

As Yugo watched the exchange with a fond smile, silently begging Alibert to forgive him for not warning him of his intentions sooner and for the near heart attack he must have surely inflicted upon him, he couldn’t help the pleased tingle that ran down his body as he finally got to introduce the two Twelvians he cared most for. He had no doubt that once his initial surprise had worn off, Alibert would welcome Amalia with open arms and treat her with the same amount of fatherly affection and kindness as if she was his own daughter.

He had once bestowed the same treatment on him, regardless of his otherworldly origins, after all.

So imagine his surprise when, instead, good, old Alibert—always so jovial, so level-headed, so composed—, just jerked back in utter astonishment and pointed a trembling finger towards Amalia as he blurted out, “You’re a Divine Doll!”

…on second thought, maybe he should have warned Alibert of his intentions in advance. Yugo knew, probably better than anyone, that meeting a Divine Doll for the first time wasn’t quite the same as bringing a Wow Bow puppy home. He was also starting to wonder if perhaps Amalia wasn’t on to something when she said she could always just pretend to be a regular Sadida. Even if he didn’t doubt his accompanying her would have blown her cover, at least they would have saved poor Alibert the shock of a lifetime.

Honestly, between Yugo’s first introducing himself to the man and now this, he was beginning to seriously consider paying for the poor man’s medical bill. As soon as his people got a hang on their currency, of course. He was at least responsible for his blood pressure rising for sure.

And now Amalia was looking back at him, concern evident in her brown eyes even as she tried to keep a polite smile on her face, clearly as perplexed by the Enutrof’s reaction as the latter was by her presence.

It was at that moment that the king chose to intervene. Clearing his throat, he stepped forward and between Alibert and Amalia. “That’s right, Alibert.” He told the innkeeper gently, placing a hand on his shoulder. Then, much like when Amalia was still in her doll form, he gestured to her. “Amalia here is Sadida’s eleventh Divine Doll. She’s been living with us for a while, and I figured it was about time I took her out for lunch to my favourite place in the entirety of the World of Twelve.”

The green-haired beauty, ever polite, extended her hand towards Alibert, her smile intact. “Pleasure to meet you, Alibert.”

“The pleasure is all mine, my Lady…” Alibert managed to mutter, practically on autopilot. His eyes scanning all over the Sadida demigoddess, his voice still conveyed an unmistakable sense of awe in spite of his low tone as he breathed out, “So the rumours are true, my boy. The gods did indeed entrust you with a Sadida Doll. Even after…” He trailed off, the meaning behind his unfinished words causing Yugo to furrow his brow as the ears on his hat flattened against his head. Then, he chuckled, slowly going back to his old self. “Somehow, this makes much more sense than them just gifting you a regular doll!”

Yugo snorted, his thoughts temporarily diverted from Alibert’s enigmatic words, imagining himself walking around with a doll on his shoulder. Although, looking back, it wasn’t that much different than what he had asked of Amalia earlier. As her giggles reached his ears and his gaze settled on her, the king’s eyes softened, an affectionate grin tugging at his lips.

“Yeah, the gods sent her to us as a sign of goodwill.” He started, the sound of his voice drawing the doll’s attention back at him. She glanced up at him as if taken hostage by the sound of his voice. A shiver ran down his spine under the intensity of her gaze. “I can’t even begin to tell you just how much Amalia has been helping us since she arrived. She truly is a blessing.”

Yugo watched in satisfaction as a lovely blush spread all over her cheeks, the blood underneath highlighting her mahogany skin with their apple-like colour. For a moment, for just a moment, when the magnetic pull between them was at its strongest, his gaze flitted down to her parted lips, so inviting, so tempting, so close…

And then they broke away, fast as lightning, and his own face burned with the intensity of a thousand suns when Alibert spoke up, “Well, if that’s the case, then I sincerely thank you for coming to visit my humble abode, my Lady. Hopefully, this old chef’s dishes won’t be too disappointing compared to the high cuisine you must have enjoyed at the palace!”

Amalia, who had been too preoccupied looking everywhere but at Yugo and shyly tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear, perked up when she realised Alibert was talking to her. Regaining her composure, if only a little, she hummed in affirmation. “Oh, yes. I’m sure it will be delightful, Alibert. After all, there has got to be a reason why Yugo likes this place so much, right?”

“A part of me is beginning to suspect he just likes to get out of the palace every once in a while…” chuckled Alibert, his arms crossed over his chest as he flashed the Eliatrope King a coy smirk. His smile widened when, from the corner of his eyes, he noticed Amalia sending Yugo a knowing look of her own.

The ears of his hat lowering in ill-concealed embarrassment, there was nothing Yugo could do but shrink under their gazes. Although he would never admit it, he knew he was busted.

Luckily for him, the Enutrof was gracious enough to put an early end to his suffering, for he let out a boisterous laugh before patting him energetically on the back, the action almost sending him tumbling forwards.

“Alright, alright. Enough with the chit-chat. There’ll be plenty of that once I’ve served a plate of food right in front of you two.” Alibert said, beckoning the two of them to follow him out of the pantry-remodelled-office and towards the main dining room.

Now that Amalia was out of Yugo’s pocket, she was free to scan every nook and cranny of the restaurant. She couldn’t help the warm grin that formed on her lips when she realised the Crispy Gobball Inn (as Yugo had called it before) was a lot more welcoming than the name suggested. Judging from the high, wooden ceilings, the simple decor adorning the walls, and the conversing patrons, the restaurant was indeed a simple eatery where people could leave their worries behind and enjoy some comforting, freshly-cooked lunch. The myriad of aromas invading her senses was enough to make Amalia’s mouth water. She had to embarrassedly place a hand against her belly and sheepishly laugh behind her palm when her stomach let out a loud growl, pointedly reminding her that she had yet to eat.

Her cheeks coloured again for a very different reason when Yugo leaned in closer to her to whisper, “You’ll just love Alibert’s cooking. Definitely some of the best I’ve ever had, I promise.”

Not trusting her voice to speak, the doll simply let him know she had heard him with a meek nod.

Finally, Alibert offered them to sit down on two stools placed right in front of the counter, which at the same time had first row seats to the kitchen and all the activity going on in it. Amalia watched with curious eyes as three young men were running themselves ragged as they juggled chopping and slicing different ingredients and dumping them into pans, manning the stove, and carrying the finalised dishes and drinks to their respective customers. She didn’t have much time to dwell on it, nor on the fact that Yugo had brought her closer to himself when one of the boys—the one acting as waiter—took a good look at her and let out a loud Boowolf whistle. Instead, her attention was immediately drawn to Alibert unceremoniously shoving one of his clients off his chair and directly onto the floor.

She had to do a double take when she turned to Yugo for an explanation and he remained perfectly unaffected by the whole thing. Moreover, while his lips were curled upwards in amusement, his eyes reflected a certain sense of boredom, as if Alibert shoving old people off their chairs was just another Tuesday for him. What the actual—?

Her head snapped back around and her eyes widened further in shock when the man, despite his old and fragile appearance, sprung back up with the agility of a Rogue on the run, and shook his fist angrily in the air, “Sweet Miser above, Alibert! Is that how you treat your customers?!”

Alibert just blinked, unimpressed. “Goodness, no. You know I’d never dream of treating my customers like that, Ruel.”

“Oh, so I suppose I’m the exception just because we happen to be old friends, huh?!” The man, Ruel, demanded to know.

The only change in the chef’s expression was the arching of a bored eyebrow. “Nope.” He said, popping the ‘p’. Suddenly, his features sharpened into a scowl, and Ruel audibly gulped. “I get to treat you like that because, as far as I’m concerned, you’re no customer of mine.”

Letting out a scandalised gasp, Ruel brought a hand to his chest. “How could you?! After all we’ve been through, you dare say I’m not one of your customers even though I have faithfully come here at least once a week ever since you opened the restaurant more than twenty years ago?”

“And you have yet to pay for a single meal!” Alibert exclaimed, throwing his arms out in exasperation at his old friend’s antics. “By this point your tab must be bigger than the rivalry between Bonta and Brakmar!”

In response, all the old man did was hold his head high with a sniff as he crossed his arms. “Just so you know, it’s very impolite to ask your friends for money. I expected more from you, Alibert.”

“It’s even more impolite to never give it back!”

And that was all Amalia needed to know this Ruel fellow was an Enutrof, and one that ticked all the boxes, for that matter. Between his scrawny figure; hairless head except for a small ponytail that contrasted greatly with his bushy, silver beard; his worn-out clothes that had definitely seen better days; and, last but not least, his stinginess, for all she knew he could very well be Enutrof’s son himself.

As the two men bickered back and forth like an old married couple—with Alibert taking on the role of the long-suffering wife—, Amalia turned back to gaze up at Yugo, befuddled by his nonchalance.

Yugo managed to stifle his snort with varied degrees of success when he noticed the absolutely flabbergasted expression on Amalia’s face. Somehow her jaw only dropped further down when all he could offer in response was a helpless shrug and a brief explanation, “This happens all the time, don’t worry. I’m starting to believe this is how they bond.”

Blinking rapidly at his answer, her mind still struggling to catch up with the insanity that was her reality in that very moment, she focused back on the conversation between the two very differently-looking Enutrofs.

“Quit your yapping, Ruel. You were about done, anyway.” Alibert said as he wiped the counter with a wet rag. Immediately after, he dried it off with another, dry rag, and capped it all off by masterfully placing two goblets on top of the counter and pouring some water into them. “Besides, we got company.”

Ruel raised an eyebrow when his old friend gestured to the side with his head, only for his eyes to widen at the sight of that Yugo lad cheerfully waving at him, while the loveliest Sadida he had ever seen in all his years timidly mimicked the action by his side.

“Hey, Alibert. It’s been a while.” The Eliatrope greeted him warmly. He gestured at the green-haired beauty next to him. “I’d like you to meet Amalia. She’s a very special friend of mine.”

The girl, Amalia, greeted him with a polite nod, tentatively extending the hand that wasn’t currently clenched before her chest towards him. “Um, pleasure to meet you.”

Putting on his most charming act, he took Amalia’s hands in his and offered her a golden-toothed smirk. “The pleasure is all mine, my dear.” He turned to address Yugo. “Atta boy! Not only did you finally find yourself a girlfriend, but she’s a real beauty too!”

No sooner had the light-hearted joke left his mouth did the two of them turn bright red. They made sure to keep a respectable distance between each other as they stammered their way out of explaining to Ruel there was absolutely nothing going on between them.

After a few minutes of that, Alibert took pity on them and, with a good-natured sigh, set out to give them an out. “Amalia, don’t humour him. Trust me, you’ll end up regretting it. I humoured him once, years ago, and I haven’t been able to get rid of him since!”

“Why, you ungrateful old gargoyle, you…!”

“Look who’s talking.” The chef flashed his old friend a wry smile.

Had he noticed the charged atmosphere between those two lovebirds back in his office, when they stared deep into each other’s eyes, seemingly aiming for a kiss, and time seemed to still? But, of course! He was gaining in years, but he still had a long way to go before he lost his eyesight completely. Was he going to say anything about it and poke fun at them when it was a topic they clearly weren’t ready for yet?

…okay, maybe a little. But unlike Ruel, he at least knew when to stop! Seriously, he was doing them a favour. True to his nature, when the old miser found something juicy, like an Enutrof with a shiny kama, he didn’t let the matter go easily. He would have heckled them about it until Yugo swore off ever stepping foot in his inn ever again.

And he couldn’t have that, now could he? Not only because the boy was the leader of the otherworldly and very powerful species that seemed to have everyone on edge, but also because he had grown quite fond of him and he would miss his visits. Especially now that he’d introduced him to his little girlfriend.

What? He just couldn’t resist, so sue him.

The kindly innkeeper was broken out of his reverie by Yugo and Amalia taking their respective seats in front of the counter and right in front of him. He smiled at them. “What can I get you, guys?”

Yugo’s answer was swift. “Same as always, Alibert. Thank you.”

“Even your drink? Wouldn’t you like some bamboo milk instead of your usual water?” Alibert suggested, as it was in his innkeeper nature, but the king just shook his head politely.

“Just water is fine, thanks. I still have to get us back home and, trust me, drunkenness and portals don’t mix.”

Yugo laughed lightly at that, clearly thinking back to some occasion where alcohol had done a number to him and/or his people. But since neither Alibert nor Ruel had ever seen a tipsy Eliatrope, they only chuckled a little out of politeness. The chef then redirected his attention to the Divine Doll.

“What will it be, my Lady?”

Amalia startled a little, and felt silly about it immediately afterwards. They were in a restaurant, so it was only natural that Alibert would ask her what she’d like to eat. Problem was, she had no idea.

Back at the palace, she mostly just ate whatever the chef and kitchen staff had cooked that day, so outside of saying she preferred some fruit over more elaborate desserts or if she would like some bread with her food, she had never really had much of a choice. And on top of that, there was also the fact that she simply didn’t know what Alibert served in his restaurant.

As she wracked her mind trying to come up with an answer to the surprisingly impossible task, her finger tapping her chin pensively, Yugo placing a hand on her shoulder as he leaned closer to her got her to perk up in his direction.

“I can’t recommend Alibert’s Gobball Stew enough.” He told her, giving her a toothy grin. “It’s the best thing on the menu by far, and that’s saying something!”

“Thank you, my boy. Can’t deny it feels good to have your cooking recognised.” The Enutrof said, rubbing the back of his head in embarrassment at the compliment. Then, his expression soured as he shot a glare in Ruel’s direction. “Not everyone is as appreciative of my food as you are. Even though it’s clearly good enough to keep them coming for twenty years.”

“Typical. You have no trouble forgiving an apple thief, but when it comes to me, you sure know how to hold a grudge…” Ruel grumbled quietly to himself, rolling his eyes and making a physical effort to avoid making eye contact with his best friend.

Fearing another round of bickering was about to start lest she did something, Amalia stammered out her answer, “I-I…um! The…the Gobball Stew sounds fine. I’d like to try it, too.”

Alibert’s scowl immediately softened at the doll’s request. “Of course, my Lady. It’ll be an honour. Do you want anything to drink?”

She shook her head. “No, thank you. Water is fine.”

“Suit yourselves.” The chef shrugged. He left a jar full of water near their untouched goblets, silently telling them they were free to get as many refills as they wanted. He turned back around and wandered deeper into the kitchen, calling out to them over his shoulder, “I’ll start with your stews right away. In the meantime, how ‘bout you tell me how Adamaï’s doing, huh, Yugo? And don’t worry about distracting me; I might not be so young anymore, but I can still multitask just fine.”

That got Amalia’s attention. “You’ve met Adamaï before?”

“But of course! I met the two of them at the same time, as a matter of fact.” Alibert answered, his back still turned to her as he rummaged through the crates where he kept all the ingredients. He picked up some onions, a few peppers, and several mushrooms; placed them on a cutting board and, with an expert hand, began to slice them with a kitchen knife. “Speaking of the Shushu, is there a reason why he didn’t come today with you two? Is he very busy?”

“Adamaï is doing just fine, Alibert. Thanks for asking.” Yugo replied, his head resting on his hand as he waited for his meal. “There were just some things that needed to be taken care of at the palace, so he chose to sit this one out. Just this once.” He winked at the Enutrof, hoping he wouldn’t take his twin’s absence the wrong way.

He had nothing to worry about, for the chef just looked up from his task and sent him a knowing smile, an eyebrow arched. “Letting your brother do all the work while you’re out and about, having fun? My, that’s not very kingly of you, Your Majesty.”

The Eliatrope had the decency to blush. Truth be told, the real reason why Adamaï chose not to accompany them to Emelka was because this was all supposed to help Amalia out and make her feel better over whatever it was that had been troubling her lately. And Ad was very adamant on not getting in the way. As much as Yugo tried to argue that that was just ridiculous since they were all friends, his brother shut him up with a look.

A look that clearly said that Amalia needed him at the moment, so the dragon would most likely just spend the day acting like a third wheel.

Another look from his twin prevented Yugo from protesting about that.

Just as he was about to give some flimsy excuse or use his usual laid-back persona to get Alibert off his back, Amalia beat him to the punch. Yugo could only stare at her as she stood up for him.

“Oh, but that’s not true at all!” She said, her voice, though still soft and sweet, was filled with unwavering conviction. “Yugo’s always doing his very best to be of service to his people. Every single day, his schedule is simply packed with the daily responsibilities he has to tend to.”

She began listing things off with her fingers. “Every day, he trains, and meets up with his siblings individually to check up on their progress on their respective fields and chores. And he personally talks to the members of their staff and guards to see if there’s anything to report. And at least once a week he listens to his subjects’ grievances, fully intending to solve them as quickly as possible even if it means he must pull an all-nighter. Not to mention, he also must hold a meeting with the Council of Six to discuss important matters and update each other on their progress.

“And yet,” She turned to look at him with such sweetness in her eyes, Yugo could practically taste the sugar on his lips. If only he could taste it on hers… “Amidst all that, despite how time-consuming it surely is, Yugo always takes some time out of his busy schedule to spend it with me.” She looked at Alibert straight in the eye, her gaze piercing yet not unkind. “I assure you, Alibert, nobody takes his responsibilities as seriously as Yugo.”

A pregnant silence fell over them after Amalia’s impassioned speech. While a small blush betrayed her own vulnerability, the doll didn’t back down, hers a face of determination. The Eliatrope wished he could follow her example, however, he found himself too overwhelmed to move his hand away from his burning cheeks, let alone look the girl (or the Enutrofs, for that matter) in the eye. His heart thudded violently against his ribcage. Meanwhile, the pair of old friends could only stare wide-eyed at Amalia, before exchanging meaningful glances with each other, years of friendship allowing them to hold a full conversation without words.

Finally, the chef’s shock melted into a smile. “Of course, my Lady. I didn’t mean to imply Yugo doesn’t work hard to be a good king, I know for a fact that nothing could be further from the truth.”

“So…?” She trailed off, tilting her head to the side.

“It was just some harmless teasing between friends. All in good fun.” He promised, before pointing a finger in the Eliatrope’s direction. “But I’m serious! Tell your brother to stop by soon. You know I enjoy your visits.”

“Of course, Alibert. I’ll let him know.” Then, his face broke into a downright devilish smirk as he seemed to remember something. “Just make sure to keep any Kralamoure out of sight.”

The chef actually cracked up at that, much to the doll’s bewilderment. After a little while, he quieted down, wiping a tear off his face. “Oh, your brother’s never gonna live that down, is he?”

“Nope.” Said Yugo with a wolfish grin, popping the ‘p’.

��He’s never gonna live what down?” Amalia asked, her face scrunched up in confusion as she stared back and forth between the two of them. “Did something happen with a Kralamoure?”

Now that she thought about it, she remembered how Adamaï hadn't looked all that enthused when she discovered the creature for the first time back when the three of them went to Oma’s beach. Maybe it was related?

“You could say that…” Alibert chuckled. Amalia was about to insist some more when Yugo took pity on her and began retelling the story himself.

“As you can imagine, the only thing more eye-catching than an Eliatrope is an Eliatrope Dragon, so the first few times Ad and I went exploring on our own, he had to take on a less conspicuous form. Usually, he goes with the local wildlife. And on this particular day, Ad chose to be a Kralamoure. Now, what does a Kralamoure have to do with Emelka’s wildlife, I don’t know, but when dragons get an idea, it’s impossible to change their minds. So I let him be.”

“But I thought dragons were capable of taking on more humanoid appearances.” Shinonomé, Grougaloragran, and Phaeris were proof enough of that. “I get Adamaï can be stubborn, but why would he choose to be a Kralamoure, of all things?”

Yugo winced and tilted his head every which way. “They are, they definitely are. It’s just that full-on humanoid forms have never really been Ad’s forte. Random creatures like tofus or even golems? No problem. But the most human he can look is his usual appearance.”

“Huh.” Was all the doll could say in response to that.

“Anyway,” Yugo continued. “For some reason, Ad turned into a Kralamoure, but because of a series of events that aren’t all that relevant right now, he ended up with the other Kralamoures Alibert had taken out.”

Amalia gasped. She already had a pretty good inkling on what happened next and couldn’t help but feel waves of sympathy for the dragon.

“Hadn’t Yugo stopped me and Adamaï shapeshifted back into his usual self on time, he would have ended up as that day’s special.” Alibert finished grimly, confirming her thoughts. Then, he added, almost like an afterthought. “Not gonna lie, I don’t think I’d be able to bring myself to cook Kralamoure ever again after that…”

They all nodded in agreement. The Divine Doll, in particular, had never eaten Kralamoure before, but seeing what almost happened to her friend, she figured it was better if it remained that way and she swore it off altogether.

As he tossed the rice he’d need for the stew into the boiling water, Alibert tried to change the subject to lighter topics. As much as he and Yugo liked to tease Adamaï about it, there was no doubt that almost being cooked alive was a really macabre topic. It was really bringing the mood down.

“So, what can you tell us about Inglorium, my Lady?” Alibert asked casually, sending Amalia a calculated side-glance meant to downplay his question. As the doll perked up, he kept his focus on stirring the pot. “Forgive me, I’m sure you must have been asked the same thing countless times already, but you’ll have to understand, us mortals tend to get curious over the realm of the gods.”

“Speak for yourself.” Ruel scoffed dismissively. In the blink of an eye, however, his disinterested expression lit up in excitement and he leaned in closer to Amalia, grasping her hands in his. She had to suppress the urge to flinch at his eager eyes and far-too-wide smile. “Having said that, is it true what they say about Enutrof’s realm? Is there treasure as far as the eye can see?”

Amalia’s face fell, unimpressed. Figures that would be the only thing Ruel would be interested in. Coincidentally, that was all the Enutrof King wanted to know as well when they met back at Bonta.

“I’m Sadida’s Doll, Ruel.” She began, her voice slow and clear as she tried to get her point across. “While I have met the other gods, I only have access to the… um… common areas and my father’s own dimension. I have no idea what Enutrof’s realm looks like.”

Ruel’s face fell at her explanation and he unceremoniously let go of her hands. He looked like he was about to cry.

Thankfully for all parties involved, Alibert intervened, swatting his old friend away. “In that case, how are the gods, Lady Amalia? I’m sure you must have a lot of interesting anecdotes from your time with them.” His brow furrowed in confusion when all she did was pull a face and do a so-so motion with her hand.

“Not really, I’m afraid.” She admitted. Yugo, who had been watching her intently since the conversation began, didn’t miss the way she fiddled with her wristband. “Naturally, I spent more time with my father and sisters as they all explained what I would need to know. But aside from Cra, who would drop by now and then to visit, I wasn’t really introduced to the other gods until it was practically time to come to the mortal realm.

“Although I must admit during that time, limited as it may have been, I got to appreciate certain characteristics and quirks that I have seen duplicated in their respective followers.”

“You mean things like how Ecaflip is always itching to gamble, a trait that he clearly passed down to his worshippers, right?” The Eliatrope king offered, remembering when she explained the same thing to the Twelvian rulers or she shared her tales about Inglorium with him.

She nodded, a small smile on her face. “That’s right. I also remember taking notice of the fact that the Cra Matriarch and her entourage were as calm and collected as their goddess. Or the Sram’s apparently shared stoicism. And the Eniripsa Queen was just as bubbly and curious as Eniripsa herself!”

She also remembered being taken aback by the Iops’ battle-ready and impulsive nature. Maybe they weren’t the best conversationalists around, but they were at least entertaining. Though she could only wonder if they had that in common with their patron god or not—for some reason, she never got to meet Iop. Whatever the case, though, she had to admit their hair was to die for.

Her smile widened ever so slightly when she remembered the short moments she shared with the Sheran Sharms. While Prince Armand seemed to be more high-strung, and maybe even a little abrasive, she couldn’t help but be reminded of her father when in the presence of King Oakheart. He was a good man, she could feel it.

“And what about The Miser himself?” Alibert urged her gently, unknowingly breaking her out of her stupor. The steak he placed into the pan sizzled upon touching its hot surface. “What can you tell us about him?”

Yugo had to bite back a laugh, his mind going back to their first encounter with the Enutrof King. He didn’t forget how the diminutive man cut straight to the chase and inquired about the size of his god’s treasure, much like Ruel had done moments before. If the deity himself was as money-hungry as his followers, then he feared the kind of offerings he demanded from them.

“He’s stingy.”

The words were out of Amalia’s mouth before she even had the time to think them over. Her eyes widened in shock when her brain finally caught up to her mouth, no doubt helped by the gaping looks both Enutrofs were flashing her with. By her side, she heard Yugo poorly trying to hide his snorts and wheezes, and, her lips pursed in irritation, she elbowed him to cut it out.

Praying Sadida would put her out of her misery, she scrambled to add, “Um, uh… B-but that’s not all…! I mean, Enutrof has a lot of good qualities, too! Let’s see, um… there’s his… uh…”

Just as she was about to faint from trying to stammer her way out of her faux pas, the doll’s worries were put at ease when Alibert and Ruel broke into loud cackles right in front of her. In fact, Amalia couldn't help but shrink on herself uncomfortably when the commotion caused by their uproarious laughter drew the attention of the other patrons to the counter and onto her.

As the two Enutrofs struggled to reel their amusement in, the doll scowled at Yugo. “You could’ve helped me, you know.”

She almost gasped when he still had the audacity to chuckle. “Sorry, I just figured you’d find out sooner or later.”

“A warning would’ve been nice!”

“And ruin the surprise?” He winked at her.

Amalia sputtered, her cheeks ablaze. “I stood up for you earlier!”

That shut him up, and the Sadida Doll allowed herself to smirk in satisfaction, counting that as a small victory. What she didn’t know, however, was that Yugo’s silence had less to do with having lost their mock argument and everything to do with the fact that he couldn’t get Amalia’s earnest defence of him out of his mind. The way she so readily jumped in to prove Alibert’s—well-meaning and harmless—jabs wrong. The fact that she knew him so well she could easily recite his daily and even weekly schedule from memory. And the racing of his heart when she showed her sincere and deep appreciation for the fact that he always took some time away to be with her, how much it all clearly meant to her…

It all affected him in ways Yugo wasn’t quite ready to confront yet.

So he welcomed the distraction when Ruel finally got his laughing fit under control to mutter, “No wonder you think the old dragon’s stingy, Amalia.” He wiped a tear off his face, before staring at his nails and scoffing with a roll of his eyes over a particular memory. “Last time I was in a pinch and asked him for help, he refused to do anything unless I paid him! Self-serving lizard…”

“Ruel, you never give him any offerings in the first place. He’s a god, he’s bound to know when you’re lying.” Alibert pointed out.

“Meh, same thing.” Ruel replied stubbornly, turning away with a huff. Indeed, the old man was the epitome of Enutrof stinginess. There was no doubt about that.

As the innkeeper and his friend started bickering yet again, Amalia’s eyes trailed over to Yugo, the topic that had sparked up this conversation fresh in her mind. Yugo and his people worshipped and supposedly took after the Great Goddess Eliatrope. Did that mean Yugo and his siblings owed their personality to their mother? The Council of Six were all very different from each other; if that was the case, she wondered which traits they had actually inherited from her.

Was she as scientifically-oriented as Chibi and Grougaloragran? Perhaps she was as level-headed and patient as Mina and Phaeris? Was she as enigmatic and all-knowing as Qilby and Shinonomé? Did Glip and Baltazar get their nurturing nature from her? Was she as impish as Nora or—Amalia shuddered at the thought—as prone to hold grudges as Efrim?

Would she be as selfless, and kind, and adventurous, and warm, and caring, and understanding, if a tad bit impulsive and emotion-driven, as Yugo?

…And Adamaï. She meant to say if she would be like Yugo and Adamaï in terms of personality.

(She chose to ignore how Adamaï was actually far more level-headed and logical than his twin).

Just then, Yugo noticed her staring and turned to face her, his own expression unreadable. Almost as if he, too, had his mind plagued with swirling thoughts he couldn’t quite make sense of. He raised an eyebrow, and that alone was enough to convey his silent question—’What’s up?’.

Amalia had her own question at the tip of her tongue, begging her to open her mouth so it could come tumbling out. Right before she got the chance, however, Alibert’s voice broke the spell they found themselves under, drawing their focus back to him.

“Anywho, don’t worry, my Lady. And thank you for answering our questions.” Unlike his previous instances of bickering and mild aggression, this time, the innkeeper put his arm around Ruel’s shoulders and pulled him towards him. “I don’t know about these old bones right here, but it’s been a while since I heard any interesting stories!”

“That’s because you hung up your shovel and replaced it with a spatula just as things were getting good.” Ruel ribbed him with a smug smirk.

“And I don’t regret it one bit.”

“Wait, what?” Amalia blinked, taken aback. “Alibert, is that true? You weren’t always a chef?”

“Believe it or not, this kindly innkeeper you see here used to be a bounty hunter alongside Ruel.” Yugo supplied helpfully, doing his very best to hold back the snort that threatened to escape him as Amalia’s jaw practically hit the floor, her eyes almost bulging out of their sockets. Instead, he leaned over the counter and clasped a hand on the chef’s shoulder, giving him a firm squeeze. “Isn’t that right, Alibert?”

Amalia whipped her head so fast in his direction, the only possible explanation as to how she hadn’t given herself whiplash had to be that Sadida himself had to have intervened.

“You used to be a bounty hunter?”

He scratched the side of his face, a little nervous under her scrutiny. “That’s right, my Lady. I was a bounty hunter for a while twenty years ago. Until I quit.”

“May I ask what made you quit?”

“Well, why not?” He shrugged. “You answered our questions, so it seems only fair that I answer yours. Now, let’s see…”

Amalia waited with bated breath for Alibert to begin with his tale. In the meantime, even as the chef organised his thoughts, his hands kept moving deftly around his station, adding the chopped vegetables and cooked rice into a bigger casserole and beginning to stir fry it all with a wooden spoon. Sizzling on the fire next to it, the steaks were almost done, too.

The aroma emanating from the kitchen was so mouth-watering, Yugo couldn’t help but sigh blissfully, his stomach growling as it impatiently waited for the meal. Even Amalia had trouble focusing as soon as the scent hit her nostrils.

Luckily for her, she didn’t get the chance to get too lost in her culinary daydreams, because as Alibert finally served their food to them—two plates filled with a generous serving of rice and stir-fried veggies with a crispy Gobball chop on top—, he spoke up:

“Well, I suppose I should start by saying that, just like Yugo told you, I used to be a bounty hunter. Ruel and I were partners and used to take on missions for money.”

“You mean you were my sidekick.” Ruel corrected with a smirk and a swig of his bamboo milk. “No offence, Al, but when you were still in diapers, I was already apprehending wanted criminals.”

Alibert ignored him. “Guess you could say it’s not all that surprising, coming from two Enutrofs. Being a bounty hunter is basically like getting paid for living adventures.”

“That sounds amazing…” The doll breathed, her eyes sparkling at the prospect of being able to make a living out of venturing into the world. Alibert had to suppress a chuckle at the panicked look plastered all over Yugo’s face at her reaction.

“Overprotective much?” He couldn’t help but think. Instead, he chose to help him out. “It definitely has its perks.” If Yugo kept staring at him with those disbelieving, manic eyes of his, his façade was sure to crack and he’d break into another laughing fit. “But it’s also incredibly dangerous, too. Keep in mind that a bounty hunter doesn’t get paid unless they apprehend a criminal and bring them to justice.

“And their crimes can go from something as harmless as stealing a few apples, to committing serious atrocities.” He said gravely, leaning closer to the girl over the counter. His eyes travelled over to Ruel when the old Enutrof let out a rather violent shudder.

“The Compulsive Chopper of Bonta…” He muttered, seemingly reliving old memories.

“Well, when you put it like that, I guess I can see why you wanted to quit…” Amalia admitted, before picking up her fork and finally bringing some of the stew into her mouth. Only for her eyes to snap open in shock as her taste buds were assaulted by a wave of rich, savoury flavours that almost knocked her out cold.

The men around her watched the doll curiously, caution in their eyes, as she swallowed that forkful slowly, very slowly, and remained immobile for a while. Her brown orbs, as big as the plates containing her meal, stared straight ahead, almost as if she’d seen a ghost. The Eliatrope and the two Enutrofs shared fearful glances, and Ruel motioned towards Amalia with his head to get Yugo to do something about her.

The king, who had his own spoonful suspended in mid-air at his friend’s strange behaviour, gently set his fork down. Sending a nod towards Ruel, he tentatively reached out to Amalia, but just as he was about to gently nudge her out of her stupor, the doll snapped out of her trance all by herself and proceeded to all but gorge the stew down under the astonished, and a little bit concerned, stares of the men around her.

For a little while, Amalia kept shoving spoonfuls of rice and vegetables into her mouth as she furiously tore into the steak with her knife and cut it up to likewise wolf it down. Then, she began to slowly regain her bearings as she finally seemed to remember she had company— company that was looking at her with slight terror in their eyes—, and her frantic, ravenous movements halted. With a sheepish, forced chuckle, she set her utensils down on the table and sat up straight once more, her cheeks red as apples.

The colour intensified when she took notice of the inn’s patrons staring at her like she had used her powers to grow an entire forest from scratch.

She awkwardly coughed into her hand. “Um… Yugo was right. Your Gobball Stew is delicious, Alibert.” A pause. “Thank you.”

All three of them kept staring owlishly at her for a few more seconds, causing the doll to further shrink on herself in embarrassment. And, then, they suddenly broke down laughing, which turned her embarrassment into irritation, a vein throbbing on her forehead. Alibert threw his head back as he cackled, Ruel kept banging the counter with his fists, and Yugo was at the very least trying to suppress his blown-out laughter into more modest snickers.

It couldn’t have been more than a few minutes, but to Amalia, it might as well have been an eternity.

At long last, the Eliatrope regained his composure enough to tell her, “I knew you’d love it. I’m glad in the end I didn’t make a mistake by bringing you here.”

Though surprised at first by his earnest response, Amalia soon returned his smile with one of her own. “As long as it comes from you, I’m pretty sure I’ll end up loving anything you show me.”

She couldn’t help but feel giddy inside when pink dusted over his cheeks at her admission, her own face growing warm. Sometimes he was just too cute for his own good. Unfortunately for her, the feeling was short-lived.

“Gotta say, last time I checked I was pretty sure you were supposed to be a Sadida demigoddess, not an Osamodas one.”

Amalia grimaced at the thought of being called Osamodas’ daughter, especially when she remembered the uncomfortable feeling she got whenever she locked eyes with the royal family. If it weren’t because of her own personal grudge against Count Harebourg, she would say not even Frigost was as cold as their sneers.

She was almost too afraid to ask. “What is that supposed to mean?”

Yugo just shrugged innocently. When he smirked, his fangs glinted dangerously. “It’s just, you were eating like a hungry beast right there.”

Her cheeks ablaze, Amalia let out a scandalised squawk and gently swatted him on the shoulder. Much to her chagrin, her reaction only caused Yugo to laugh harder.

Rolling her eyes at the unkingly display with a huff, she turned in her stool to face Alibert again and ask him more about his former profession. Only for the words to die in her throat when she noticed the chef and his old friend staring back at them with unreadable expressions on their faces.

“What are you guys looking at?”

From the corner of her eye, she noticed how Yugo shifted in his own stool. The movement of his ears indicated he, too, was beginning to feel anxious.

Feeling like they had been caught, Alibert shook his hands in front of himself in an attempt to dispel any lingering tension, while Ruel pretended to go back to nursing his tankard.

“No, no, nothing at all!” The chef rushed out, sweatdropping under her suspicious glare. “I’m just glad you seem to enjoy my food that much, Lady Amalia. It’s not every day that a divine child comes into my restaurant and praises my culinary skills like that.”

“Except for when Yugo and Adamaï come.” Ruel muttered into his bamboo milk. He let out a yelp when Alibert elbowed him to cut it out.

“Oh.” Amalia said, timidly looking at her side and tucking some hair behind her ear. “In that case, yes, I very much enjoyed your food, Alibert.” She sent a conspiratory wink his way and stage-whispered. “Don’t tell the kitchen staff back at the palace, but yours is the best cooking I’ve had since I arrived.”

The Enutrof smiled. “Your secret’s safe with me, my Lady.”

“And with me.” Yugo agreed. “Between you and me, I also like Alibert’s cooking better, but what kind of king would I be if I put down my people’s cooking for an outsider’s?”

The three of them laughed at his joke, while Ruel hid his own smirk behind his drink. Bringing yet another spoonful to her mouth in a much more subdued pace, Amalia made sure to redirect the conversation back to its original topic.

“So, is that why you quit, Alibert?” When all he did was raise a confused eyebrow, she elaborated. “Because the bounty hunter life was too dangerous?”

The Enutrof’s bewildered expression softened into a small, wistful smile.

“Yes and no.”

And so, as his two guests stuffed their faces with his specialty and he busied himself with prepping upcoming orders and ordering his employees around, Alibert told them all about how he came to leave that life behind.

According to the Enutrof, while he certainly didn’t regret all the adventures he and Ruel had been to and everything they had seen, after a while, it stopped being all that fulfilling. Whenever they handed their latest target in and received their reward, he would find his gaze and mind wandering, far too distracted by thoughts and choices that had nothing to do with the here and now. More than once, when the two adventurers turned in for the night next to the warm glow of the fire, while Ruel snored to his heart’s content, Alibert laid awake, wondering if that was all there was to it, to his life.

Even more surprising—although, he admitted that, looking back, it really wasn’t— was the fact that he didn’t really enjoy the job all that much in the first place. Granted, it was great that they got to travel as much as they did, and the pay wasn’t so bad, but sometimes, depending on the ‘criminal’ they brought to justice, he couldn’t help the ache in his heart and the heavy chains of regret he would feel. One thing was chasing and capturing a hardened villain and mastermind like some of the most notorious criminals they had faced; and another very different thing was heavily fining or even jailing a poor family man who only wished to feed his loved ones during a time of crisis and famine. Especially when the aristocrats would take decadent meals for granted while the least fortunate starved.

That was when he would most often disregard his duties upon accepting the job; it took a lot of convincing to get Ruel to listen to him, but most of the time, they ended letting those poor, unfortunate souls go and forsaking the reward money.

(And each time without fail he would receive an earful from Ruel about the sacrilege that was letting those precious, precious kamas go just like that).

As luck would have it, one such case didn’t just lead to him quitting the bounty hunter job at long last, but it also led him to Emelka.

The two Enutrofs had taken up a job requiring them to chase down an apple thief. And… that was exactly what they did. Alibert confessed he was hesitant to really punish the guy for the ridiculous crime of robbing some measly apples to begin with, but when he realised he had only done so to feed his children, the kindly Enutrof realised once and for all he couldn’t go on with that kind of life. So he let the man go back to his family, hung up his shovel, and wished Ruel the best of luck in his future endeavours. Now all that was left was forging a new path for himself.

“Let me tell you about this one perk being nice to others has, my Lady.” Alibert winked at her as he placed a hand on his hip. He flicked the rag he had in the other hand before leaning over to wipe the counter with it. “Most people will repay you out of gratitude.”

He nodded towards a middle-aged man sitting at a table near the back of the restaurant, next to him were a young man and woman that appeared to be his family. “See that man over there? He’s the apple thief I was telling you about. When he learned I would be staying in Emelka for a few days until I figured out what to do next, he sought me out and suggested I take over the old inn. Apparently, the village was in desperate need for some new life to be breathed into it.

“At first I wasn’t sure, but then I remembered how I always cooked for Ruel and I whenever we had to camp and I figured, ‘Why not?’.” He chuckled to himself, his eyes darting down in reminiscence as he scrubbed a difficult stain on the wood a little more furiously. “One thing led to the other and now, not only do I run the most successful inn on this side of Amakna, but I also ended up becoming the village’s mayor.” He let out a wistful sigh. “Life sure has ways to surprise you.”

Her polished plate of stew long finished, Amalia listened to Alibert’s tale with rapt attention, her head resting on her knuckles and her eyes sparkling in a newfound sense of profound admiration. If she already respected the man before due to his adventuring days, then his undeniable heart of gold managed to win her over completely. Not everyone was capable of going against the law to do the actual right thing, and even fewer people did so with the promise of money in mind, especially when the people in question were Enutrofs. So the fact that Alibert managed to resist his kama-loving instincts and decided to forge a path for himself was beyond incredible to the doll.

Her brows knitted together and her lips pursed in a firm line when Efrim’s words echoed unbidden in her mind, reminding her of her own shortcomings. She had a long way to go before she could ever be close to the chef’s level.

She blinked those thoughts away when Yugo agreed with Alibert, “It sure has. Just when you think you have it all figured out, life throws a curved ball at you that sends you reeling and struggling to regain your footing.”

Was she imagining things, or did his gaze flit momentarily to hers before he hastily fixed it right back ahead? Her eyebrow only raised higher when he cleared his throat, his voice suddenly hoarse. “A-anyway, I’m glad you eventually managed to find your path and to live your life to the fullest, Alibert. You deserve it.”

As if to emphasise his point, he raised his goblet in the air and tilted it slightly towards the chef, silently making a toast in his honour Amalia found herself mimicking heartily.

They didn’t understand when the innkeeper let out a heavy sigh. “Thank you, Yugo. But, as much as I enjoy my life as it is now, that doesn’t mean I don’t have a few regrets of my own.” As he said that, he gazed longingly at the table where the old apple thief and his family were seated at, a sad glint reflected in his dark brown irises.

Staring back and forth between Alibert and the family all the way over to the other side of the restaurant in confusion, the doll’s expression lit up in understanding before it melted into sympathy for the man. For all his accomplishments over the years, what Alibert truly wanted was a family of his own, but, for some reason or another, he never got the chance.

As much as the Divine Doll wanted to reach out and console him, she remained quiet, her hands clutching at her pants nervously. No matter how generous, kind, and welcoming Alibert was, they had barely known each other for a short while. She couldn’t help but feel like she would be intruding upon something very personal if she said anything. Besides, Ruel and Alibert had known each other for years; if anyone could cheer him up, it was him.

Somehow, that didn’t make her feel all that much better over her own lack of initiative.

She perked up when instead it was Yugo who reached out to the old innkeeper, placing his bandaged hand on his forearm to draw his attention. When the Enutrof looked down at him, the doll could see from the corner of the eye how the king had his characteristic comforting smile plastered on his face.

“If there’s something I’ve learned over the years, it’s that no matter how long you live and how many things you do, chances are, you’ll never get to do everything you ever wanted.” He confessed, his voice kind but unwavering in its conviction. It was at moments like that Amalia remembered Yugo was also a demigod, only he had lived for far longer and was far more experienced than her.

“We will always have regrets; after all, that is the price you pay for being able to make your own choices.” He continued. “What matters is that we don’t let those regrets keep us from enjoying the things we got right.”

For a moment, Alibert just stared at the boy in front of him, amazed by seeing such wisdom coming from such a young man. Then again, he supposed Yugo wasn’t really that young, now was he? How old did he say he was last time he asked, 500-something? Despite how he might look, he had already seen far more than the vast majority of the World of Twelve, and yet, he remained humble enough to let himself be taught and schooled by others.

The old innkeeper guessed it was easy to forget Yugo was an extremely long-lived Eliatrope when, not only did he look to be in his twenties, but more than once Alibert himself had been there for him, listening to him vent as he unloaded his many responsibilities and worries unto him, sometimes still feeling as unprepared to be king as he did when his brother Chibi (if memory served) first appointed him as his successor.

It was so easy to see a young man taking his first steps into adulthood when he still bickered and squabbled with his twin brother like a pair of kids. Or when his insecurities consumed him and Alibert would witness how he’d curl in on himself, appearing much younger than he really was both physically and mentally. Or when he would blush, and stutter, and gaze longingly at the beautiful flower he had brought with him as if he were a smitten teenager introducing his first girlfriend to his parents instead of a centuries-old demigod.

From the moment they met, something about Yugo made Alibert want to be there for him, no matter what. He couldn’t help but get all misty-eyed when it was apparent Yugo wanted to do the same thing for him.

His wide grin stretching from ear to ear, he snaked his own arm over Yugo’s shoulders and brought the king closer with an affectionate tug and a squeeze, laughing merrily and insisting he bring Adamaï over soon as the latter complained half-heartedly over not being able to breathe.

From her seat, Amalia watched the exchange equal parts mesmerised and endeared. A few giggles escaped her as Ruel joined in on the fun and Alibert, with the grumpiest pout she had ever seen in her admittedly short life, playfully shoved the old miser away, grumbling about personal space as he did so. Her lips tugging upwards into a fond smile, Amalia found herself thinking that Alibert had found his own little family after all.

...........................................................................................................................

“...and that is the story of how I led a Precious Metal Band, before that shameless fiend of Phil Armonique got greedy and crushed my dreams.” Ruel finished his tale with a swig of his drink and a nostalgic grumble. While Alibert leaned on the counter, rolling his eyes exasperatedly, Amalia and Yugo stared at the old Enutrof with eyes wide as saucers.

If only by the sheer ridiculousness of it all.

“But… you guys never even settled for a name…” Yugo pointed out warily. He had a feeling Ruel wouldn’t react well to being confronted with reality.

His suspicions were proven correct when the old miser slammed his tankard against the counter hard enough to startle both Eliatrope and Sadida Doll, a nasty snarl on his face.

“Only because that foolish bragard refused to acknowledge the fact that my name was better! Hadn’t it been for that stubborn Dragoturkey, we would have taken the World of Twelve by storm!

“Do you know how popular Precious Metal is in Brakmar?” He asked aloud, but before either Yugo or Amalia had so much as a chance to open their mouths to respond, he cut them off, throwing his arms to the side frantically. “We could have been rich!”

His eyes welled up with tears at the thought of all the precious kamas he lost, holding his head in his hands as he bawled furiously. So close and yet, so far… “And all because that egotistical, talentless hack insisted we named the band after him, even though I was the brains of the operation and the most important member to boot!” Yugo instinctively snaked an arm around Amalia’s waist and brought her closer to him when she flinched just as Ruel’s wails were beginning to raise in volume. “Had he seen reason and agreed to go along with my idea, our band’s name would have been remembered for generations!”

“Uh-huh.” Alibert, who was more than accustomed to his best friend’s little spiels and his tendency to lose himself in his hysterics whenever it came to money, just hummed noncommittally. Then, just as casually, he called out to Ruel. “And what did you say was the name of your band again?”

Sniffing loudly, Ruel opened his mouth to answer, only to close it immediately after. His face scrunched up in thought. “I… actually don’t remember.” He admitted sheepishly after a beat, flashing them a toothy grin as he rubbed the back of his head.

While Yugo could only facepalm, Amalia almost fell off her stool For his part, Alibert just let out an exasperated sigh. “I knew it.”

Just as the old Enutrof was about to defend himself, the offended frown evident on his face, the Eliatrope cut in, standing from his stool and clasping his hands together. Looking up at him, the doll momentarily wondered if it was time they left already, and she couldn’t help the pang of disappointment she felt at the thought. She didn’t have anything to worry about, however.

“As… entertaining as this has been,” Yugo commented diplomatically, pulling a face. “That last glass of water passed through me with the speed of a racing Dragoturkey, so, Alibert,” he addressed the man. “Would you please be so kind as to remind me where the restroom is?”

For a moment, the old innkeeper just blinked, bewildered, before he snapped out of his trance and let out a full-on belly laugh. Sometimes dealing with Yugo could be a riot, especially when he acted as casual as any man his age—or, well, any man whose actual age was the one he looked—, only to immediately afterwards regain the same level of formality and eloquence expected from someone of his position.

Then again, considering Amalia was still present, he had a pretty good guess he was doing it mostly for her sake.

With one last chuckle, he jabbed his thumb to the side. “It’s right down the hall, Your Majesty. Let me know if you need me to refill the toilet paper or something.”

“Don’t worry. I can take care of it.” He smirked over his shoulder, wiggling his fingers meaningfully as he excused himself.

With Yugo gone for the time being, Amalia found herself growing a little self-conscious. It wasn’t like she hadn’t been enjoying Alibert and Ruel’s company, though the latter could be a bit of an acquired taste, but she would be lying if she said she didn’t feel more at ease around new people if Yugo was there with her.

She frowned at the thought, once again remembering Efrim’s hurtful but accurate assessment of her. She involuntarily closed her eyes shut and gritted her teeth as his voice echoed in her mind for the umpteenth time, tearing into her for her dependence on his brother. Even now, she needed him by her side just to be able to talk to two perfectly friendly people who had been nothing but kind to her. And he was just down the hall!

What was wrong with her? Couldn’t she do anything on her own? Did she always have to depend on Yugo? Just, what kind of Divine Doll was she—?

“Kama for your thoughts?”

She blinked rapidly, the self-disparaging trance she was in now broken. “Huh?” She oh-so-eloquently said.

It took her a little more than she’d like to admit to regain her bearings, but when she finally did, she found both Ruel and Alibert were looking at her with unreadable expressions on their faces. Though, Amalia could tell they weren’t unkind. If anything, they looked worried about her.

“Oh, no.”

Before she had the time to panic and try to frantically excuse herself, Ruel repeated his question. “Kama for your thoughts?”

The doll tilted her head to the side, “You charge people for thinking?” She honestly couldn’t put it past him…

“Probably in Brakmar.”

When it became clear the joke flew right over her head, her face scrunched up in confusion, Alibert stepped in to clarify. “Technically speaking, it’s Ruel who’s offering to pay you in exchange for hearing your thoughts, Lady Amalia.”

“Now, if you feel like paying me, who am I to deny the wish of a Divine Doll such as yourself?” Ruel chimed in, solemnly placing a hand over his heart in a display that wasn’t fooling anyone.

“Please, ignore him.” The innkeeper waved him off. When he focused back on the doll, his expression turned softer, more fatherly. “What we’re trying to say is, is there something troubling you, my Lady?”

Amalia was about to deny everything when Alibert jabbed a finger right in front of her face, causing her to yelp in surprise. “And don’t you even think about shrugging it off as nothing. I might be a humble innkeeper, but I have so many drunk and not-so-drunk customers confiding their problems with me, I might as well be a certified therapist at this point.”

“He’s not wrong, you know.” Ruel added as he took another swig of his bamboo milk—just how many of those had he had already? It was honestly impressive he still seemed to be coherent at all. For an Enutrof, he could give a Pandawa a run for their money. “There’s a reason I come here so often.”

For once, Alibert bit back a scathing remark about how he only seemed to come visit because he never forced him to pay his tab, no matter how much he complained about his best friend mooching off from him. But he held back. Now that wasn’t important, helping Amalia with whatever seemed to be on her mind was.

Instead, he lowered his voice so it’d sound as encouraging as possible, offering the doll a small smile. “So, what seems to be the problem?”

Alibert watched as Amalia seemed to be battling with herself and whatever demons were plaguing her mind. Bringing a hand to her chest and bawling it into a fist, she averted her gaze, looking at everywhere but them, and bit down on her bottom lip. From her guarded, tense posture alone, it was easy to tell she was really debating whether she should say anything or insist on taking her secrets to the grave.

After what felt like an eternity, the Divine Doll seemed to finally make up her mind. Her gaze down-lidded and gleaming with vulnerability, she let out a heavy sigh before glancing over at the chef. The way her shoulders sagged made it look like she alone was carrying the weight of the world—at least, whatever was burdening her must have been very heavy. She bit her lip a little harder.

“Recently, I’ve been having… doubts.” She admitted, her voice small and unsure. She hugged herself for comfort as she spoke, her arms holding her torso as if she feared she would come breaking down unless she forced herself to keep it together.

When she grew silent again, Alibert urged her gently. “What kind of doubts?”

As images of her last encounter with Efrim flashed through her mind, merciless, she forced herself to grit out. “About a lot of things, really.” She shrugged, small and helpless.

She wouldn’t go into much detail about what was really on her mind. After all, the last thing she needed was rumours going on about how a member of the Council of Six wasn’t just distrustful of her, but had also attacked and insulted her—Her! A Divine Doll. It would only serve to further aggravate the already tense rapport between Eliatropes and Twelvians and she couldn’t afford to make matters worse.

“I was forced to face the fact that maybe…” She swallowed thickly. “That maybe I’m not worthy of being one of Sadida’s Dolls.” Her voice almost broke with that admission, the stinging sensation in her eyes back at full force as she tried to keep the tears that threatened to stream down her cheeks at bay.

Both Enutrofs shared alarmed glances, struggling to believe their own ears. This time, it was Ruel who spoke up, his voice uncharacteristically gentle. “My dear, surely you don’t think that! After all, you are a Sadida Doll—he made you himself! There’s no way you aren’t worthy of the position if you were born with it.”

“But that’s just it!” Amalia had to summon every ounce of self-control she possessed not to screech, worried over her voice carrying over to Yugo and alerting him of her current emotional state. If there was one thing she wanted to avoid at all costs, that was the king finding out about what happened with his little brother. “Sadida made me to be objectively exceptional! I’m a living, breathing doll with powers beyond mortal comprehension, for crying out loud!

“And yet, I feel like, no matter how much I try, nothing I do ever amounts to anything. I’m surrounded by extraordinary people, all of them working themselves to the bone to achieve their goals and serve their purpose. And then there’s me… Despite having the devastating power of nature at my fingertips, I feel like I can’t do anything on my own. I’m always depending on others, to the point I’m utterly helpless by myself. How can I call myself a Divine Doll if I’m so pathetic!?”

As she spoke, her voice grew wobbly and unsure, threatening to tear her throat apart as the tears welled up in her eyes. By the time she was done talking, the dam broke and all she could do was sob as silently as possible into her hands, her body shaking with the motion. Luckily for her, Ruel was doing everything in his power to shield her from any prying eyes in her moment of vulnerability, both by placing a comforting hand on her shoulder as he leaned closer to her and by sending nasty glares as anyone who got too curious. She would have to remember to thank him when she wasn��t such a mess.

She was taken aback when Alibert abruptly changed the subject, his tone even as he levelled with her. “Have you ever been to the Sadida Kingdom, my Lady?”

“W-what?” Was all she managed to say between sniffles, looking up at the chef from her hands with watery but confused brown eyes. Her shoulders still shook now and then from her sobbing.

“Have you ever been to the Sadida Kingdom?” He repeated. “Or met one of your father’s followers?”

Despite her bewilderment, the doll managed to answer honestly. “Um, no? I-I mean, I haven’t been to the Sadida Kingdom y-yet. Father sent me straight to the Eliatropes. And this is actually the second time I ever leave their territory, the first one being when we headed over to Bonta. Although, it was precisely there that I met the Sheran Sharms, the Sadida Royal Family.”

“I see.”

Alibert hummed with a nod, at the same time, he took her and Yugo’s plates away and stashed them into the sink to wash them later. Truth be told, in all his adventures over the world, he had never actually met the Sheran Sharms, as none of their travels ever took him and Ruel to their kingdom, let alone their court. He knew snippets and rumours he would gather from travelling Sadida who talked amongst themselves either as they parted from home or returned after some time away.

From them he gathered that King Oakheart Sheran Sharm was beloved by his people thanks to his open-minded and welcoming, yet responsible and just nature. That his kingdom wept the loss of their dear queen almost as much as her family did. That young Prince Armand was shaping up into a worthy successor… even if he could still be quite arrogant, condescending, and his breath was bad enough to kill a Bwork. That a general feeling of unease regarding his decision to marry an outsider like that one Osamodas princess reigned supreme, as well as their general malcontent when it came to her… Really, the usual idle gossip amongst civilians.

But he had also learned enough over the years to understand the Tree People weren’t ones to be underestimated, and it would greatly hurt both them and their patron god to see a Divine Doll, the only creatures they worshipped as much as Sadida and their forests, beat herself up like Amalia was doing at the moment.

“W-why do you ask?” The doll stammered out as she tried to wipe the tears off her face. Much to her chagrin, however, Alibert chose to answer her query with a question of his own.

“What did you think of them?”

“Of who? You mean the Sheran Sharms?”

The Enutrof nodded. He shot a meaningful look at Ruel, who was watching the scene in bewilderment, to remain silent.

“Oh. Uh, let’s see…” Amalia began. Unbeknownst to her, during the time it took her to gather her thoughts to reply, she was doing exactly what Alibert expected her to. That question had forced her to keep her mind off her own insecurities and to focus on something else, which in turn helped her calm down, as evidenced by the fact that her breaths were no longer shallow and her tears had subsided.

“Well, I remember being taken aback when I first met Prince Armand. Don’t get me wrong, I could tell he greatly cares for his kingdom and takes his duty and position as future king very seriously. It's just…” She bit her bottom lip, weighing her words carefully. “Maybe he takes it a little too seriously? Believe me when I say not even Father himself is as formal as he was, and he seemed to be especially guarded when it came to Yugo and the Council. But I guess that’s to be expected.” She shrugged.

“And then there was King Oakheart…” The doll trailed off, her mind going back to the first time she was face-to-face with the current leader of her father’s followers and the greatest treasure he could have given to the World of Twelve—its forests. She wouldn’t have been able to keep her lips from curling into a smile at the memory even if she had wanted to. “It was plain to see that the Sadida are in good hands. My father must be incredibly pleased to know his people and forests are protected by such a wonderful man.”

“I’m sure he is.” Alibert agreed as he handed a napkin to the doll to dry her tears with. “I must admit I haven’t had the ‘pleasure’,” even if he hadn’t air-quoted the words, the tone of his voice would have been enough to understand he was being sarcastic, “of being formally introduced to the world’s leaders.”

“Sometimes, dealing with the mayors and figureheads of the communities we visited was bad enough.” Ruel chimed in with a roll of his eyes.

“Right.” Alibert nodded. Then, he turned back to an expectant Amalia. “But I will say this, out of all the kings and queens, and princes and princesses their travelling subjects have talked about around me, everyone seemed to agree King Oakheart is clearly the best leader they could ever ask for. Which doesn’t surprise me, as that man seems to embody Sadida values through and through.”

Perking up at that last part, Amalia tilted her head to the side, intrigued. As a Sadida herself, technically, she was well-acquainted with the commandments the Leafy God’s disciples were supposed to follow, which she did without fail. Still, judging by the way the innkeeper said that, she had the feeling he wasn’t actually referring to the king’s pious nature.

“I suppose the ruler of the Sadida Kingdom must possess a powerful link and respect for nature…” She chuckled, scratching her cheek sheepishly. She let out a squeak when the chef just shook his head good-naturedly.

“If you ever get the chance to go to the Sadida Kingdom, my Lady, I suggest you take it. You see, I have never been there myself, but I have served enough Sadida their food to believe I have quite a good grasp when it comes to understanding what makes them tick.”

“What makes them tick…?” Amalia repeated, blinking slowly. ‘Tick’ as in, like a Xelor?

He nodded. “That’s right. From what I’ve gathered, Sadida are easily amongst the most easy-going and laid-back races populating this world. Most of them aren’t concerned with fleeting, shallow things like fame and fortune, rather, they prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground and add their two kamas by helping preserve what they consider to be the greatest gift of all…”

“Nature.” Amalia finished for him, the answer so ingrained into her, it left her mouth before she so much as had time to register what she said.

Alibert chuckled as he handed another order over to one of his waiters. “Precisely.” His expression, while it never lost its levity, gained a new, meaningful edge. “However, just because they’re peaceful and know how to appreciate the small things in life, that does not mean they are pushovers, for all Sadida are born with one purpose: to protect the forests of the world and their loved ones.

“Your people are nature-lovers, Lady Amalia, that much is undeniable. But it’s precisely because they love nature so much that they’re willing to become fearsome warriors in order to protect it. And, from what I gathered, that attitude also extends to their royal family.”

This time, it was Ruel who spoke, his voice laced with a conviction and thinly-veiled disdain that was odd in him, especially when it had nothing to do with having lost money. “Many other royals will use their position to justify having others do their dirty work for them, all the while they act as nothing more than paperpushers, at best, or self-serving despots far more concerned with indulging in their own debauchery than fulfilling their actual duties, at worst. But not the Sheran Sharms.”

“The Sheran Sharms aren’t just leaders, they are warriors. To be a Sadida is to be a warrior. And no Sadida would ever allow for anyone to look down on them just because their own ferocity isn’t immediately obvious as compared to Iop, Cra, or Sacrier.” Alibert finished for his old friend, before his hazel gaze settled back on the Divine Doll staring at him almost as if he had burst open the gates to Inglorium with his bare hands. His gaze was almost as piercing as what he said next. “Lady Amalia, you are Sadida’s Doll and, therefore, warrior blood runs through your veins. You should feel as proud of yourself as you feel about your people. It’s the least you all deserve.”

The Divine Doll felt her heart stop at his words, before it started pumping blood again, this time, with an intensity that was carried all over her body. It was like pure electricity coursing through her system, motivating her to move past her own weakness and make her father and their people proud. She needed to become stronger. She could become stronger. If her people, mortal as they were, faced each challenge head on in the name of what they believed in, so could she. She just needed to work on herself and to never give up.

She could do this. She would do this. For Yugo and his people. For Sadida and his worshippers. For herself. It was high time she faced her own demons and learned to vanquish them, and this time, nothing, not even a powerful dragon with a bone to pick with her, would get in her way.

Such was the excitement she felt at the moment, her emotions overwhelming her, the Sadida Doll didn’t even register the single tear that was streaming down her face until a voice she knew and adored called out to her, concern dripping from every syllable:

“Amalia, why are you crying?! Did something happen?”

With a small gasp of surprise she looked to the side just in time to see Yugo closing the distance between them and kneeling on the floor to reach out to her, the stools standing in the way be darned. When his hand cupped her cheek and he lovingly wiped the stray tear down her cheek away with his thumb, she immediately regretted the fact that his hands were currently bandaged by that dark cloth. She longed for his warmth, so much so, she couldn’t keep herself from leaning into his touch.

“Amalia…”

He uttered her name with such gentleness and tender concern for her, the doll’s heart constricted violently in her chest. Her hand came into contact with his, her own thumb rubbing circles on the back of it.

“I’m fine, Yugo. I’m fine.” She didn’t know where she found the conviction that was imbued into her voice, but she wasn’t about to look a gift Dragoturkey in the mouth. If she began to question it, she feared she’d end up spilling everything to Yugo, even when she and Nora had already agreed it’d be best to leave him in the dark so as to not worry him. Just this once.

His brows knitted together in deep concern, Yugo flashed a furtive, questioning glance towards the old Enutrofs watching the interaction, his eyes narrowing when all they did was shake their heads and shrug innocently. Too innocently. It was clear they at the very least had an inkling on what had been troubling Amalia lately, yet they refused to divulge the information.

On the one hand, the Eliatrope was glad those two were proving to be trustworthy enough not only to him and Adamaï, but to Amalia as well. She really needed some more people she could count on in this world. But on the other hand, he couldn’t help the clenching of his jaw at their secrecy. Today’s visit was supposed to help Amalia take her mind off her worries, not bring them back full force only to still push him away when all he wanted to do was help her!

Just as his eyes were beginning to glow blue from frustration, the doll’s sweet voice brought him back to the present. “Yugo, please. I’m serious, I’m okay. You have nothing to worry about, I swear. Come on, Ruel was about to tell us that joke about how he was married once.”

How could she say that so nonchalantly? How could she ask him not to worry about her? Didn’t she know that, ever since she arrived, something deep inside him stirred whenever it came to her? That her safety and well-being were always at the forefront of his mind? How did she expect him to not grow concerned when something was clearly wrong yet she still refused to confide in him what it was? When his heart thudded so painfully at the mere thought?

“Please?” She insisted, a sweet smile curling at her lips, and his heartbeat became more erratic.

He let out a heavy sigh, accepting defeat. “Alright.” He offered his own smile in return.

As they listened on to Ruel’s tale about his wife—an even more intrepid and cunning Enutrof than him called Arpagone, apparently—, and they lost themselves in their own laughter at the sheer impossibility of the old miser ever getting married, the two demigods placed one hand over the table, next to each other. And if they noticed how, at some point during the story, their fingers brushed against each other and grew closer until their fingertips intertwined, neither said a word.

.......................................................................................................................

This time, it was Amalia who had to excuse herself. Only, instead of going to the restroom, with Alibert’s reluctant permission, she was buzzing around the restaurant accompanied by Toto, Matou, and Tomato, who were practically drooling over her. Seriously, their boss had had to warn them about getting spit on the food about four times already.

As the Enutrof observed their interactions, especially the way they followed her around like a bunch of lovesick puppies, Alibert couldn’t help but groan. He brought two fingers to his face and pinched his nose. He honestly should have seen it coming. Not only because of the boys’ entranced reaction the moment they first laid their eyes on the doll, but also because of how they acted when they approached her.

They’d been deep in conversation, with Amalia trying to explain the fact that, no, Sadida didn’t sleep the day away because they were lazy, but because they were in a deep meditative state as they connected to nature, when she felt a tap on her shoulder. Blinking in surprise, she turned around on her stool, only to find herself face-to-face with the nervous, flushed faces of the three young men working for Alibert. If it weren’t because he knew this would negatively impact their effectiveness at their jobs, the Enutrof would have found the way they rubbed the back of their neck, and stammered, and tugged at their collars nervously as they shyly requested a little bit of the demigoddess’ time amusing.

As it were, however, the irritated twitch of his eyebrow at the seventh complaint begged to differ. Although, as he laid his eyes on the green-haired doll as she fluttered around, her eyes glimmering in curiosity at everything the boys showed her, Alibert couldn’t really blame them. Perhaps Amalia wasn’t his type—and not just because he was old enough to be her father—, but he still could tell when a woman was beautiful. And Amalia was absolutely gorgeous, a kind of wild beauty whose only reasonable explanation was its divine nature. And the way most men and several women would ogle at her as she passed by their side was testament enough of that.

Although perhaps the biggest piece of evidence was Yugo’s own reaction to the way Amalia unintentionally brought attention to herself. That, too, would be amusing if it weren’t so scary.

The Eliatrope King was sitting on his own stool, his back to the counter and his arms spread wide at his sides. He was drumming the index finger of his right hand against the wooden board, the action following a furious rhythm that had Alibert on edge, afraid that it might end up piercing through the wood. His brown eyes, focused and unblinking, were currently narrowed in on Matou as he tried to shower Amalia with compliments, though they would immediately change targets if anybody else got too close to the doll or stared at her for too long for his liking.

Alibert flinched, pulling a face, when Toto leaned to close into Amalia’s personal space, until the two of them were practically flush against each other. He had to bite down a whine when the scowl on Yugo’s face deepened and the first crackles of blue energy made their presence known.

He honestly didn’t know if Ruel opening his big mouth was a blessing or a curse.

“Didn’t take you for the jealous type, Yugo.”

The change was instantaneous. One second, the king’s furious gaze was on the scene unfolding in front of him, and the next, he turned to scowl at the old miser. His frantic eyes were wide even as his scowl deepened. It was a little unnerving, if he was being honest with himself.

“I am not jealous.” Yugo growled.

“Really?” Ruel arched an eyebrow, amused and seemingly ignoring his best friend’s signs to shut up on purpose. “Then what do you call overzealously watching Amalia’s every move as all eyes are drawn to her?” He chuckled when the Eliatrope’s face twitched at his accusation, before pointing at it. “Or that?”

“I’m not jealous.” Yugo huffed, turning back around to face the restaurant and crossing his arms almost petulantly, his poncho rustling with his movements. “I’m just worried about Amalia, that’s all.”

“C’mon, my boy. She’s a Divine Doll. Pretty sure she can handle herself just fine against some hungry customers…” Ruel insisted with a dismissive wave of his hand, though he recoiled a bit when Alibert sent him a warning glare.

“It wouldn’t be the first time she was on the receiving end of an admirer’s unwanted advances, unable to stop it…” He spat out, his vision darkening momentarily as memories of Harebourg’s hands tightly gripping the poor doll’s wrist and her terrified face flashed through his mind.

The Enutrofs shared a look at that piece of information. It didn’t take them long to piece everything together. Could it be that was the reason why Amalia had confessed she felt unworthy of her position, because she had been unable to stop something like that from happening?

While that would indeed explain a lot of things, it still wasn’t enough to shed some light to Yugo’s own behaviour. Alibert knew from his and Adamaï’s various visits that, despite his laid-back and jovial attitude, Yugo was actually fiercely protective of those he cared about, namely his family and subjects. Now, it was plain to see that the same courtesy extended to Amalia, too. However, that couldn’t be all there was to it.

When he had seen the tears streaming down the doll’s face, the king’s voice was tinged with deep concern as he all but begged her to tell him what was bothering her. And when the Sadida beauty insisted everything was fine, not only didn’t the concern subside, but it was accompanied by frustrated resignation and ill-concealed pain. It was like watching the boy’s heart tear itself open as he pleaded with Amalia to let him in.

It was clear to see from his intense scrutiny of her that those worries didn’t just go away just because they partook in some more friendly conversation and funny anecdotes. If anything, they had come back full force.

Eyes narrowing in suspicion, Alibert tried a different approach.

“Leave the boy alone, Ruel.” He nudged his best friend, who flashed him a confused look. He mouthed ‘Let me handle this’ to him, to which he nodded. “It’s only natural to look after the people you care about.”

Yugo nodded. “Exactly. Thank you, Alibert.”

“Especially when you’re in love with them.”

It was like a record being scratched, the tension in the atmosphere so thick you could cut it with a knife. The silence, deadly. Ruel, his jaw millimetres away from touching the floor, was pulling at the remaining hair he had in utter disbelief, while Yugo’s whole body had stiffened. Even if he had his back to them still and his poncho draped over his shoulders, there was no mistaking his tense posture nor the death grip he had on the wooden counter. Alibert swore he heard how the wood splintered under his fingertips.

The fact that his voice sounded even at all was honestly impressive. “Alibert, I’m not in love with Amalia.”

A small smirk stretched itself over the Enutrofs lips. “Are you sure?”

“Of course I’m sure!” Yugo hissed, his face scrunched up in frustration. He had turned around on his stool so fast, Ruel was actually expecting the force to propel his spin for a little while longer. His grip on the counter was too strong, apparently.

“Then why are you so worried about her?” Alibert countered as he wiped a mug clean. He nodded towards the doll and her admirers. “You know those three; they might not resist a pretty girl, but they’d never even think about laying a finger on her. And considering Amalia came with you…”

The rest of that sentence went unspoken, but that didn’t mean Yugo didn’t know exactly what the chef meant by that. Even if Matou, Toto, and Tomatou would never hurt a girl to begin with, the fact that Amalia was with him was proof enough that doing so would be extremely ill-advised. His lips pursed into a thin line, he averted his gaze, his fingers drumming on the counter rhythmically as he debated with himself.

After what felt like an eternity, he finally sighed.

“I’m not jealous.” He repeated for a third time, and even Ruel knew better than to try to contradict him at this point. “But I am concerned. I don’t know why she was crying when I came back from the bathroom,” his brown eyes momentarily flickered towards theirs, giving them one last chance to come clean, but the Enutrofs remained silent, “but something’s definitely wrong. She’s been weird for days, barely eating, not saying much, constantly spacing out…

“This is the first time in days she’s been back to her old self. Something clearly happened, but whenever I ask her about it, she either insists everything is fine or changes the subject, and it’s driving me crazy!” His fists clenched tightly, the action highlighted by the bandages he wore, threatening to tear at the seams. The rigidness in his shoulders and arched back belied the tension in the air. “Doesn’t she know by now all I want to do is help her? Does she trust me so little?”

Eyes widening slightly at his admission, both Enutrofs exchanged one last look and a nod. Without hesitation, Alibert reached out and placed a hand on the Eliatrope King’s shoulder, urging him to look at him.

“Yugo, why did you decide to bring Amalia here today?”

Yugo blinked blankly, taken aback by the abrupt change in topic. He answered honestly nonetheless. “It was Ad’s idea. He suggested the best way to help Amalia right now might be to just take her mind off of whatever’s been troubling her.”

“I see. That was smart of Ad.”

Yugo nodded absentmindedly.

“And, tell us, boy,” This time, it was Ruel who spoke, leaning closer to him. “Would you say your little strategy’s working so far?”

Brow furrowing at his question, the Eliatrope King quickly turned his head around to look for Amalia. When he found her, he couldn’t help the giddy fluttering in his chest or the warmth bubbling up in his stomach at the sight before him.

Amalia was currently talking to Alibert’s employees—which caused a certain level of irritation to flare up within the Eliatrope, especially given the lovestruck look on their faces—, but as she did so, that wonderful smile of hers that he found so hard to resist, that smile that had been rare to see for the past few days, was finally back on her face. The doll was chatting animatedly with whomever would listen, which included several of Alibert’s patrons who seemed to find her presence and curiosity endlessly refreshing. She would laugh, and clasp her hands in excitement, and her eyes would glimmer in child-like wonder. And if any of them got too cocky, she would simply roll her eyes with a smirk and sass them back in their place.

The sight alone was enough to fill him with an inexplicable feeling of peace, bliss emanating from his every pore as his previous anxieties left his body.

That was the Amalia he had been desperately looking for. The one he had longed for these past few days. The Amalia who would spend hours talking to him about every topic under the sun. The Amalia who would blow him away whenever she showed him what she could do, or just by being herself. The Amalia who, just by watching him train as intently as she did, always managed to make him feel like the most important person in the Krosmoz.

The Amalia he knew and loved.

The realisation hit him like a tonne of bricks.

Eyes wide and heartbeat racing from the revelation, the blood rushing to his ears as his whole body flushed, Yugo almost didn’t hear Alibert when he said:

“There’s nothing wrong with wanting to help; on the contrary, it shows you care. But, sometimes, the best way to help is not by doing what we think is right and intervening, but by simply being there as we let the other person take care of their business themselves.”

“Maybe Amalia isn’t ready to tell you what’s on her mind just yet,” Ruel continued, taking a swig out of his drink as he leaned back on his stool, one leg over his other knee. “But I’m sure she will one day. You just gotta be patient, Yugo.”

“And don’t beat yourself up like that.” Alibert scolded him gently, his hands bawled at his hips as he flashed the Eliatrope a mock-warning glare. “I’m pretty sure Amalia will agree with me that you’re doing more than enough just by trying to cheer her up.”

Both Alibert and Ruel rolled their eyes to themselves, thinking back to the doll’s own self-disparaging attitude from before. Dear Enutrof, those two were practically soulmates!

For his part, Yugo just remained quiet, his mind blown from those recent revelations about himself. Could it be true? Could he be in love with Amalia? He wasn’t so sure. He hadn’t really been looking for a relationship this current incarnation, especially with everything that happened with the Mechasms. And he would rather die than ask Qilby about his past love life only to have his infuriatingly observant brother needling him over the possibility of having fallen for Amalia.

He was so lost in thought, he didn’t even register how his gaze had been set on Amalia this whole time. He was only broken out of his stupor when, just then, the doll sensed his eyes on her. Even as the people around her kept on conversing, the Divine Doll swivelled around just enough to face him more fully. She raised one dark-skinned hand to subtly wave at him as she flashed him a beaming smile that turned his insides to mush.

His face scarlet as his heart threatened to burst out of his chest, Yugo awkwardly returned the wave and the smile, though he was sure his was much more dopey than charming. There was no escaping it now.

He was in love with Amalia.

................................................................................................................

“That was so much fun!” Amalia exclaimed, having finally returned from following Matou, Toto, and Tomato around. “Alibert, your customers are the best. They were all so kind and interesting!”

The innkeeper chuckled fondly. “Why, thank you, my Lady. Hearing that from you makes this old mayor proud. I will make sure to let my citizens know they have your approval.”

“Please do, they deserve it.” She nodded with so much refinement despite the silliness of the situation, the Enutrof couldn’t help but chortle. She then turned to her close friend, “Yugo, you were right. The Crispy Gobball Inn is the best restaurant in Emelka!”

“Told you so.” He smiled back at her.

However, there was something different in Yugo’s expression. Even though Amalia had come to know and deeply appreciate each and every one of the faces the Eliatrope King was capable of pulling, this one in particular managed to tug at her heartstrings in ways no other had ever done before. There was this softness, this tenderness, in his gaze that made her insides burn, the fire rising up to her cheeks. The sweet grin that stretched over his lips was small, yet it captured so much more than anything else the doll had ever seen. But she couldn’t pinpoint just what made his current expression so special.

All she knew is that when Yugo looked at her like that, he made her feel like she was the most important person in the world—in his world. And she found she rather liked that. She just wished she knew what caused it.

The spell he had her under was broken by the sound of Ruel clearing his throat. “If you really liked it that much, Amalia, then don’t forget to leave a generous tip for the meal. Old Alibert here will appreciate it.” He winked mischievously at her while he jabbed his thumb in the innkeeper’s direction.

“Don’t listen to him, Lady Amalia.” Alibert waved him off dismissively. “The pleasure of your company was payment enough. This one’s on the house, don’t worry.” He sent her a wink of his own and a winning smile, causing the doll to giggle cutely while Ruel looked like he’d been personally affronted.

“Excuse me?!” He all but bellowed. He raised to his feet and slammed his hands down on the counter demandingly. “Are my ears playing tricks on me, or did you just say they don’t have to pay for their food, even though you’ve been pestering me about paying for years?”

“That’s precisely the point, old friend.” Alibert shot back, not missing a beat. “This is the first time Lady Amalia comes to my restaurant; I can afford not charging her once or twice. You, on the other hand, have been eating for free for about two decades. Seriously, if I had a kama for every time you skipped out on paying, you would have paid off your bet by now!”

As the two old friends went back and forth with their usual bickering, Yugo and Amalia exchanged a look, before they both dissolved into a fit of snickers at their childish antics despite their advanced age. Just then, Yugo was about to speak when the roar of thunder in the distance caught his attention, the ears of his hat perking up as he registered the sound, on high alert.

It looked like those clouds he’d seen earlier were about to finally let loose the downpour. Which meant it was time they returned home.

He turned to the Divine Doll. “Amalia, I think we should go home.”

She let out a disappointed whine. “Awww, already? But we’re having so much fun!”

He flashed her a sad smile. “I know. But if we don’t hurry up, we might find ourselves in the middle of the storm, soaked to the bone.” Although he still didn’t know if Divine Dolls had bones to begin with.

The small pout remained on Amalia’s face for a little while longer, until it melted into resignation as she let out a heavy sigh when she finally registered the howling winds coming from outside. “Okay, I suppose you’re right.”

“Oh, leaving already?” Alibert said, perking up when the two of them got up from their stools.

“Yeah, we have a bit of a walk before we can make it home and we wouldn’t like to get caught up in the rain.” Yugo explained.

“Well, if that’s the case, don’t let me keep you!” The kindly innkeeper said, before clasping both hands on the Eliatrope’s shoulders. “And come more often, you know I love your visits.”

Yugo chuckled, his own smile widening as he brought Alibert into a hug. “I’ll try. You still have to teach me all your cooking secrets, after all!”

“Word of the wise, when it comes to bread, ask anyone but Alibert for help.” Ruel chimed in, standing up as well to bid them goodbye. “These old bones have no equal in the kitchen, but bread’s always been his Achilles’ Heel.”

“I’ll keep that in mind. See you later, Ruel.” Yugo told the old man while Alibert shot a dirty look at his best friend. Then, the former settled his gaze back on Amalia and his expression softened.

“Well, my Lady, it’s been a pleasure having you in my humble establishment.” He told her honestly, a genuine smile on his lips. “Next time His Majesty decides to deem us with his presence, if you feel up to it, don’t hesitate to tag along.” He finished with a wink.

Amalia giggled, waves of affection for this wonderful man coursing through her veins.

“Will do, Alibert. I promise.” Then, she took him by surprise when she threw herself into his arms to hug him tightly. “Thank you for everything, really.”

The chef caught the hidden meaning of her words and grinned widely, returning the hug. “Anytime, Amalia. Anytime.”

When she broke off the hug, she turned to Ruel and offered him a polite bow. “It was great to meet you, too, Ruel. Thank you so much for telling me all about your adventures.”

“Next time you come around, I’ll tell you about the time I met a young Osamodas who swore she used to work as Kérubim Crepin’s cleaning lady.” He promised with a wink.

“I’m looking forward to it.” She giggled.

“Amalia, are you ready?” Yugo asked her, leaning closer to her with his poncho open, directing her attention to the pocket she’d been in earlier. To be honest, the main reason he suggested she transformed again was because, judging from the sound of rain drops coming from outside, it had already began to rain, and he knew the doll wouldn’t appreciate running under the rain and wetting wet, nor going through one of his portals just to reach the Zaap at the outskirts of town.

Her gaze trailing down to the pocket and back to his face, Amalia nodded, understanding it was for the best. With a hum, she disappeared behind a puff of smoke and reappeared in her rag doll form, which caused Ruel’s jaw to drop as his eyes flickered back and forth between her and a nonchalant Alibert.

“If you think that’s shocking, you should see how she changes back into her other form.”

After scooping Amalia up and placing her inside his pocket, Yugo hastily waved them goodbye and thanked them for everything one last time before going out of the door. With the two demigods gone, Ruel plopped back down in his seat and shook his head with the certainty of someone who knew what he was talking about.

“How long do you think it will take them to realise they love each other?”

Alibert smiled, leaning on the counter and closer to his old friend. “I think they’re getting there. Sparks flew whenever their eyes met.”

“I don’t doubt that.” Ruel agreed, shrugging. “I’m just saying, they seemed to be firmly in the Denial stage of their relationship.”

“Give them time. You can’t rush these things. Although…” He trailed off, his lips twitching into a playful smirk. “I wonder if Yugo’s noticed he carries Amalia right next to his heart.”

The two of them shared a laugh over that. They already had a very good feeling the next time those two walked through the door, it’d be hand-in-hand and with good news to share.

Alibert’s smirk dropped into a stern expression when he noticed the way his customers kept gaping at the place Yugo and Amalia had occupied until recently, clearly in disbelief at the sight of a living, breathing Divine Doll. And one that had been talking to them just a few moments ago, at that.

“If any of you speaks a word of any of this to anyone, I’m raising your taxes.” Alibert threatened, his tone serious and no-nonsense. With that, everyone flinched and turned back to their own meals and conversations, acting like nothing happened.

The old innkeeper couldn’t help but smirk in satisfaction. Being the mayor had its perks, sometimes.

........................................................................................................................

Yugo gently deposited Amalia back down on her balcony, letting go of her waist while he kept holding her hand as he did so. Normally, he would have just teleported them there, but he figured, since she already knew he could fly—although she didn’t know how—, there was no harm done in taking the scenery route. Besides, even though she seemed to have no trouble when it came to Zaap Portals, he didn’t have the heart to make her sick right as they returned home.

“What a day!” Amalia said as she stretched, her arms up as her back let out an audible pop! “No wonder you love that place so much, Yugo. Alibert is really the best.”

“Yeah, I’m really lucky to have met him. And he’s right, though, I should get Adamaï to visit soon, too.”

“Well, next time you go to Emelka, let me know. No way I’m staying here and letting you two have all the fun!” Amalia placed her hands on her hips as she leaned forward, her voice dripping with mock sternness as she pretended to reprimand the king.

Knowing this, Yugo just raised his palms up with a smile. “Wouldn’t dream of it.” It was his turn to lean in closer in a stage whisper. “Though between you and me, something tells me Alibert would cook me alive if I didn’t bring you with us next time.”

The doll shrugged, a smirk on her lips. “Well, since he couldn’t cook Adamaï last time…”

The two of them managed to hold their laughter in for all of two seconds, before they couldn’t take it anymore and broke down cackling at the poor dragon’s expense. Without the need for words, they agreed that would be their own little inside joke. Adamaï would not take it well if he learned they were laughing at his misfortune behind his back.

Still holding her stomach, which ached from laughing so much, the doll wiped a tear off her face and smiled up at the Eliatrope. “I had so much fun today, Yugo. Thank you so much for taking me to Emelka. I… I really loved it.”

“You’re very welcome, Amalia.” Yugo’s own smile morphed into a concerned expression, his eyebrows furrowed as he regarded her intently. He had to ask. “Are you feeling better now?”

Amalia was about to deny ever feeling bad when the sincerity and hope in his eyes stopped her in her tracks. His gaze was practically begging her to be honest with him, to finally open up about the insecurities and troubles plaguing her mind ever since her last encounter with Efrim. And though a part of Amalia wanted nothing more than to tell him exactly what happened, another, louder part of herself reminded her of her promise to Nora.

Not only did they agree learning the truth would needlessly worry Yugo and cause conflict between him and Efrim, which was the last thing the Eliatropes needed at the moment, for the Council of Six to be anything but a united front, but Amalia was beginning to think it truly was for the best from a diplomatic standpoint. She already had Efrim against her, she couldn’t afford to lose Nora’s support as well by betraying her trust. If she wanted to fulfil her role as efficiently as possible, she needed to have as many members of the Council of Six on her side as she could.

Then there was the fact that, needlessly harsh and cruel as he had been, there was no denying the young dragon had been right when he accused her of relying too much on Yugo. As much as she appreciated his help, as much as she appreciated him, it was about time the doll learned to stand on her own two feet. And her conversation with Alibert and Ruel had been very enlightening in that regard.

She was Sadida’s eleventh doll, and their people were fearless warriors. As such, she would do everything in her power to become worthy of the Sadida’s admiration and trust, as well as the Eliatropes’. And, thanks to Alibert, she finally had an idea on how to achieve that. That alone made her feel much better about herself and more confident in her own abilities. Because she now had a purpose.

Perhaps that was also the reason why she found herself emboldened enough to do what she did next.

Exhaling through her nose calmly, Amalia stood up on her tippy toes and reached forward, coming to place a kiss on the corner of Yugo’s lip. Her heart skipped a beat when she heard how his breath hitched at the contact.

Breaking away from him, she smiled widely up at his awestruck expression, wider and more honestly than she had done so in days. “Yes, Yugo. I’m feeling much better now, thank you. And I think I’ll go to talk to Glip and Baltazar in the morning.”

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