Chapter 245

"Why do you say that?" Elizabeth asked.

"The way you looked at papa, and his friend," Helena replied.

"It seems she's inherited more traits than we thought," Haruna stated.

"I was just a little jealous that's all. You're such a thoughtful child." Elizabeth smiled at Helena.

"You like papa too?" Helena asked.

"Most of us do," Lilith told Helena while gesturing at those in the booth.

Glancing around Helena saw how many people were in the family. They explained that Elizabeth was new to the city, and how she hasn't spent much time with Zack. Helena was still learning a lot about the world, but she did notice how busy her papa was. After watching her papa leave this morning Helena could understand the feeling of wanting someone around.

"Can she sit with us?" Helena asked Destiny.

"Of course she can," Destiny replied.

"Let's go wait for papa." Helena smiled as she grabbed Elizabeth's hand.

The innocent smile on Helena's face added to the meaningful gesture moved Elizabeth.

"Thank you," Elizabeth said while trying to delicately hold her hand.

'Kids are fragile right?'

"Does it hurt when you make the fire?" Helena asked.

"Not at all," Elizabeth replied.

"Why does your skin change?" Helena asked.

"It's because I'm a dragon."

"Mine changes to, but I don't know-how. It happened on accident, and then I hurt papa." Helena said while lowering her head.

"It's okay I did the same thing when I was your age. You remember the large man from last night that was really loud?" Elizabeth asked.

Helena nodded.

"He wears the large crown to hide the scar right here," Elizabeth said while gesturing at the location.

"When you come from a strong lineage learning to control your powers will result in accidents. With practice, it gets easier, and your family will help guide you. So don't dwell on it okay?" Elizabeth smiled.

Helena hugged Elizabeth's leg tightly and looked up with a large grin.

"Thank you," Helena said before they took their seats.

"Your daughter is precious," Elizabeth told Destiny.

While they were talking Lilith observed Elizabeth closely. It was easy to tell Elizabeth was catching the baby fever spreading through the city. This outcome was unexpected, but Lilith was still satisfied.

The arena was repaired and when Zack returned to the booth he saw how close Helena was acting with Elizabeth. A large smile went across his face as he floated in their direction.

"Next combatants," Zack announced.

After the display between the dragons, not many people were eager to show their skills. It was a tough battle to follow after all, but Kishi was set on having a match. After challenging a few candidates he had picked out previously there was no one willing. They were either too intimidated given his domineering aura, or preoccupied with the festivities.

When Kishi started his attempts to taunt people into the ring a young man stood up. His name is Suinin, and he is from Tamiko's village. Suinin had no interest in the taunts but simply wanted to prove his skill to his people. This was all in the hope of getting a spot on the defense force.

"If you're willing to accept a duel against a human then I'll join," Suinin said with his hand resting on the hilt of his katana.

Kishi scanned his aura, and it was substantial for a human, but what caught his eye was the katana. Long ago he clashed with humans using similar weapons, and they were mighty warriors. Seeing the lack of armor gave him some doubts, but with no other challengers, it was a good way to start a night of drinking.

"Let's not keep the crowd waiting," Kishi smirked.

Watching Suinin walk down the steps to the array with Kishi the other samurai began debating the sanity of their comrade. They all heard the rumors circulating through the city of Kishi surviving a killing blow from Zack. To face an oni with that level of durability would be suicide if not for the unique effects of the arena.

"Don't forget the rules, and never forget I'm watching you closely." Zack relayed.

Kishi glanced at Zack's booth briefly before they disappeared. Suinin led the way to the armory, and once there he stored his katana. Glancing at the ones made by Rolen he was fascinated by the craftsmanship.

'I heard they were making weapons suitable for everyone, but never expected them to surpass ours.'

While browsing through the armory Kishi found a section with gauntlets at the ready. Rolen was inspired when seeing Ozen's and made several models in the event other demons would like to use them. Kishi examined them all closely but had no desire for a bladed gauntlet. He was prepared to use his fist, but his eyes passed a pair free of blades.

'What are these symbols for?'Kishi ran his fingers over the knuckles of the gauntlet.

"I'll be waiting for you," Suinin said as he walked down the hall.

"Just don't disappoint kid," Kishi said as he equipped the gauntlets.

'I have to show them the Yamada family still has a strong heir.' Suinin clenched his fist.

Once Kishi finished adjusting the gauntlets to fit him properly he joined Suinin as they were sent into the arena. Landing on a small island at the center of the lake Kishi was irritated, but rapidly jumped in to swim for the closest shore. Suinin appeared on the outskirts of the forest, and after a quick search of his surroundings he sat down meditating.

"Does everyone have to meditate to use magic?" Zess asked.

"No, but if you're wanting to prepare a powerful spell without drawing from your own mana supply it's wise to start with it," Amara replied.

"If you're already familiar with meditation does it help in learning magic?" Wesley investigated.

"It helps in understanding the basics, but not everyone has the talent for it. There are methods to improve one's capabilities, but that's something to consider after they do a test during training." Athlan replied.