Back to Castle

The echo of our footsteps filled the palace corridor, blending with the warm scent of the fireplace that welcomed my body, still clinging to the chill of the frozen cavern in the depths of winter. Exhausted yet elated, that was how I felt after completing my magic training.

"Isn't it delightful?" Loki's cheerful voice reverberated softly against the marble walls, his wide grin seemed never to fade, full of energy despite the night coming to an end.

I offered a faint smile in return, mirroring his enthusiasm. "Yes... truly delightful, Master."

Loki turned to me, his expression shifting to one of amusement. "Since when did I ask you to call me that?" he chuckled, his words tinged with a playful hum.

I shrugged, hiding my smile. "You didn't."

His grin widened, this time more sincere, that title wasn't just a sign of respect, it was my way of expressing gratitude for all the magical knowledge he had imparted to me.

Knowledge that had transformed me from a complete novice to someone far above the average beginner in just one night. Despite my knack for learning, his explanations and teachings had been so clear and accessible that they seamlessly sank into me.

"Well then, get some rest now," his tone softened, "Tonight, we'll dive into even more lessons."

I scratched my head and gave an awkward smile. "If only I could... but there's something I need to take care of."

He tilted his head, his brows lifting slightly before a faint smile crossed his lips, as if understanding the unspoken. With a light gesture, he reached into the pocket of his cloak and pulled out a small clay flask, tossing it to me.

"Here, take this."

Caught off guard, I scrambled to catch it, my fingers nearly slipped, but the flask ended up safely in my hands. I exhaled in relief, studying the small object as I gave it a gentle shake, there was liquid inside, faintly sloshing with the motion.

"What's this?" I asked, curiosity piqued.

Loki crossed his arms over his chest. "A potion brewed by one of my alchemists, it'll wipe away your fatigue and sleepiness, so you won't need to sleep this morning and can carry on as usual."

I was stunned, staring in awe at the liquid in my hands, something akin to an extraordinary magical artifact. Without a second thought, I popped the flask open and gulped down its contents in one swift motion.

"Ah, refreshing..." I muttered, wiping the corner of my mouth as a satisfied sigh escaped me.

Warmth spread through my body, and wisps of white steam began rising from my skin, the drowsiness lingering in my eyes vanished instantly, so did the weariness weighing down my limbs. It all dissipated, along with the mist curling from my body.

"This is incredible..." I whispered, still in disbelief.

Loki gave a small nod before his expression shifted slightly, his smile seemed forced, as though concealing a tinge of skepticism.

"That potion is still experimental, don't overuse it, there's no concrete proof yet, but I suspect there might be side effects, especially if taken repeatedly."

He shrugged. "You know... anything in excess is bad, especially when it comes to potions like that, the effects might not be noticeable now, but they could accumulate and show up much later."

I nodded silently, his words felt like wise advice, and for some reason, I knew he was right. The potion reminded me of energy drinks from my previous life, something that granted instant power but always carried hidden consequences and long-term health issues.

"Well then, I'll be on my way."

Before I could respond, he disappeared, leaving behind a flash of blue light that gradually faded, abandoning me in the quiet solitude of the palace corridor.

I let out a long sigh, allowing the silence to settle around me. "Vanishing like that... typical."

Though disappointed, I understood, he was the King of Utgard, a figure burdened with responsibilities far greater than I could imagine, not just tending to a teenager begging to be taught magic. Even so, I wished we could've talked a bit longer, whether about magic, technology, or anything else, it would've helped me better grasp this world.

*****

My footsteps along the castle corridor suddenly came to a halt when I heard faint laughter and light conversation behind me. I turned around. A group of maids was walking leisurely, laughing brightly as they chatted among themselves.

I cast a sharp glance in their direction, not because of their enchanting appearance, but because my original plan resurfaced in my mind. Slowly, their figures began to fade, their footsteps growing faint, until only I remained in the empty corridor.

Turning my gaze back ahead, I realized that just one more turn forward, and I would reach the vicinity of my room and Fenrir's.

Yes, this time our rooms had been separated due to Linnie's policy. Fortunately, Fenrir hadn't whined about it, complying with Linnie's request. It gave me a sense of relief, providing some personal space.

It wasn't that I didn't like her company, but spending nearly every moment with Fenrir often made me crave a bit of solitude. Especially considering the fact that we shared an undefined relationship yet had often slept in the same room—even on the same bed. Although, I was sure she only saw me as her pet, and I had no ulterior motives toward her either.

A faint smile formed on my lips as I felt the need to let her know about my current state. Surely, she would have noticed that I had been absent all night.

"I suppose I should see her first," I muttered softly. My footsteps turned toward the large wooden door at the end of the corridor, where Fenrir would usually be.

When I knocked on the door, I didn't have to wait long. The door creaked open gently, revealing Fenrir standing there.

Her long hair fell neatly around her shoulders, her wolf-like ears twitching slightly. Her expression was sour and impatient, clear on her beautiful face. Arms crossed over her chest, one foot tapped against the marble floor, creating a rhythmic beat that conveyed her displeasure.

"Why didn't you come back all night, Yata?" Fenrir demanded sharply. She grabbed my collar roughly, pulling me and pinning me against the wall of her room so I couldn't move.

"Tell me! Where were you last night, huh?!" she barked furiously.

"I…" I tried to remain calm, though I could feel her ragged breath against my neck. "I was practicing magic with Loki."

My answer should have been enough to appease her, but I was wrong. Her face remained filled with dissatisfaction. "Annoying! Do you have any idea how worried I was when I realized you hadn't returned? You didn't even tell me where you were going, you irritating bird!"

"Sorry, it just happened when I was in the library. Loki suddenly teleported me away with his magic."

She released her grip on my collar gently, exhaling deeply as she tried to calm herself. "Fine, I'll forgive you this time. But next time, promise to tell me first."

I nodded in earnest regret. "I understand. I promise, Fenrir."

Her expression softened into an understanding smile. She then pushed me gently against the wall again and leaned close, whispering softly into my ear. "I've always wondered what roasted raven tastes like."

I swallowed hard, my eyes widening. Cold sweat trickled down my temples. Her gentle whisper carried an unexpected threat that made my heart skip a beat.

Fenrir stepped back a little, her voice as light as a feather. "You understand what I mean, don't you, Yata?" To me, her soft tone felt like a blade pressed to my throat, ready to strike at any moment.

"Please keep your promise, Ya-ta," Fenrir said with a thin smile.

"Of course! I… I still want to live a long life," I stammered nervously.

In my eyes, Fenrir's smile, which usually looked as sweet as honey, had now turned into a bitter, deadly poison.

"Oh, I just remembered," she said, touching her soft, pink lips. "As punishment, you have to accompany me for a walk in the city this weekend."

Somehow, the tense atmosphere dissipated, and I found myself smiling faintly at her small, simple request. "Alright, I promise."

Fenrir's smile grew content. Her expression returned to one resembling a flower's nectar. "What are you going to do now?" she asked with curiosity.

I thought for a moment before deciding to lie. "I'll head to the library."

I modulated my tone and expression to make sure Fenrir wouldn't detect my lie. Not that it mattered much—she was a little naive. On the other hand, I tried to divert her attention by asking back, "What about you? What are you going to do today?"

"Ah, Linnie asked me to train with her," she replied more cheerfully. "I think I'll join her. She seems really enthusiastic today."

Hearing that made me smile faintly, knowing Fenrir could genuinely get along with Linnie, Loki's daughter. I hoped she would continue to open up and make more friends so she wouldn't feel lonely anymore. That was the thing I wanted most for her.

"Good," I said with a smile. "I'm sure you'll have fun."

After our conversation, we decided to part ways. Fenrir headed in the opposite direction from me, saying she would meet Linnie, who was waiting for her in the garden to train. She didn't forget to ask me to stop by if I had free time.

"Come by later, okay?" she called out, waving as she jogged down the corridor in her long gown. As I suspected, she really wasn't suited to being a noblewoman, given her wild and entirely unrefined demeanor.

I simply gave her a small nod and returned her wave.

Once Fenrir disappeared around the corner, the corridor became silent again. No one passed through this area. According to Linnie, corridors near the guest rooms or royal family chambers were off-limits unless for important matters or palace duties. That was why this corridor was quieter compared to others.

"Alright, time to execute my plan." I cracked my joints, preparing myself.

"Henshin!"

I transformed into a new form—tiny and hard to detect—a small spider no larger than a fingernail. I scurried along the ceiling of the castle with my eight legs, moving swiftly.

After spotting a palace maid, I leaped and landed on her head unnoticed, hiding among the strands of her long green hair. My plan this time was none other than to track down and spy on the maid who made Fenrir uncomfortable with her scent.

I needed to find her. It could be troublesome if that girl had any connection to the gods. I had to uncover the truth.