Visit of a friend?

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Reinhard returned to Gladsheimr, the golden domain resonating with his presence. He settled onto his throne, his mind wandering to a peculiar event that had occurred some time ago. In Ramiris' labyrinth, during one of his many experiments, he had summoned a spirit unlike any other. This spirit seemed to have traversed through time itself to be with him, an anomaly that both intrigued and perplexed him.

As he leaned back, Reinhard summoned Raphael, his ever-faithful Ultimate Skill. "Raphael, report on the foreign spirit within me," he commanded.

«Analysis complete,» Raphael responded promptly. «The spirit is still dormant within you. It appears to require a significant external stimulation to awaken fully.»

Reinhard pondered this information, his fingers drumming against the armrest of his throne. The idea of a spirit powerful enough to traverse time was fascinating, but it also presented a potential risk. What kind of power would it unleash once awakened? And more importantly, what did it seek from him?

Shaking his head, Reinhard decided to push these thoughts aside for the moment. There were more pressing matters at hand, and dwelling on the spirit would not bring any immediate answers. His gaze shifted to the vast expanse of Gladsheimr, his domain of absolute authority and control.

He closed his eyes, allowing his mind to clear. Reinhard had always thrived on control and precision, and he would need both in abundance for the challenges that lay ahead. The spirit within him could wait. For now, his focus was on solidifying his rule and ensuring the stability of his world.

Reinhard's thoughts were interrupted by a faint but insistent mental tug. It was Milim, reaching out to him through their unique bond. He could sense her impatience and curiosity, no doubt eager for his attention and guidance.

With a resigned sigh, Reinhard opened his eyes. He couldn't afford to neglect Milim, not when she was so crucial to the future he envisioned. Rising from his throne, he made his way to her room, where she would undoubtedly be waiting with boundless energy and endless questions.

As he walked through the corridors of Gladsheimr, the golden light casting long shadows.

Reinhard reached Milim's room, where he found her already awake and visibly bored, her energy barely contained. As he entered, she brightened up, jumping to her feet with an excited expression. "Brother! Can we play something? I'm so bored!" she exclaimed, her voice carrying a hint of impatience.

Reinhard pondered for a moment, considering her request. He knew Milim's boundless energy needed a proper outlet, and something physical would likely be the best option. An idea formed in his mind, and he nodded, a rare smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Alright, Milim. Let's play catch."

With a wave of his hand, Reinhard conjured a Legend Class baseball and gloves, crafted from materials so resilient that they could withstand the power of nuclear magics. He handed one glove to Milim, who put it on with enthusiasm, and kept the other for himself. The baseball, shimmering with a golden aura, seemed to pulse with latent energy.

They moved to an open area within Gladsheimr, the vast golden expanse providing ample space for their game. Reinhard took his position, and with a simple yet powerful motion, he threw the ball. It shot through the air with a force that surpassed the speed of sound, a sonic boom echoing through the domain.

Milim, undeterred, caught the ball with ease, her own strength matching the challenge. She laughed, the sound pure and joyful, before winding up and hurling the ball back at Reinhard. The game quickly escalated, their throws becoming increasingly powerful, each one a testament to their immense strength.

To an outside observer, their game of catch would have been nothing short of hellish. The speed and force of their throws created shockwaves that would have leveled entire cities, yet within the unbreakable confines of Gladsheimr, they had no such worries. The golden walls absorbed the impacts without a single tremor, allowing them to play without restraint.

Reinhard observed Milim as they played, her laughter and excitement infectious. This simple activity, a game of catch, was a rare moment of normalcy in their otherwise extraordinary lives. It reminded him of the importance of balance, of giving Milim moments of joy and freedom amidst her training and education.

After several intense rounds, they finally slowed down, both of them breathing heavily but smiling. Milim looked up at Reinhard, her eyes sparkling with happiness. "That was so much fun! You're the best, brother!"

Reinhard nodded, feeling a sense of satisfaction. "I'm glad you enjoyed it, Milim. It's important to have fun, but remember, training and learning are just as crucial."

Milim nodded, her expression turning serious for a moment. "I know, I know. I'll be strong and smart, just like you want."

Reinhard ruffled her hair affectionately, a rare display of affection. "I have no doubt you will be, Milim. Now, let's get you cleaned up and then perhaps we can read more from your storybooks."

As they made their way back inside, Reinhard couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment.

When they returned to the living room inside Gladsheimr, Reinhard and Milim paused, sensing a presence outside the domain. The aura was powerful and insistent, throwing large-scale magic against the domain's unyielding barrier in an attempt to gain their attention. Milim looked up at Reinhard, curiosity lighting up her eyes.

"Is it a friend of yours, Brother?" she asked, tilting her head.

Reinhard's expression hardened slightly, a rare frown forming on his face. "No, Milim. Not a friend."

Despite his words, Reinhard made a decision. With a wave of his hand, he opened a gateway, allowing the intruder to enter. The figure stepped through, revealing the diminutive but energetic form of Ramiris, the Queen of Spirits. She floated into the grand hall, looking around with wide eyes, taking in the splendor of Reinhard's domain for the first time.

"Reinhard!" Ramiris called out, her voice echoing through the expansive room. She flew over to them, her wings fluttering excitedly. "Finally! I managed to get in!"

Reinhard crossed his arms, his gaze stern but not unkind. "Ramiris, what is it that you want? You should know better than to assault my domain."

Ramiris pouted, her hands on her hips. "Oh, come on! You know we're best friends, right? I just had to see you! It's been ages since we last met."

Milim watched the exchange with interest, her eyes darting between Reinhard and Ramiris. "Brother, is she really not your friend? She seems to know you pretty well."

Reinhard sighed, shaking his head. "Ramiris and I have shared memories, yes. She believes we are best friends, but my understanding of friendship is...different."

Ramiris puffed out her cheeks in mock annoyance. "You're such a cold fish, Reinhard! But that's okay, I know deep down you care."

Reinhard's lips twitched in what could almost be considered a smile. "Think what you will, Ramiris. What brings you here, really?"

Ramiris floated closer, her expression turning serious. "I sensed a massive surge of power and saw this incredible golden domain. I just had to see what you were up to. And...well, I missed you"

Reinhard glanced at Milim, who was now looking at Ramiris with a mixture of curiosity and amusement. "Very well, you're here now. But refrain from causing any more disturbances."

Ramiris grinned, giving a mock salute. "Aye aye, Captain!"

Reinhard turned to Milim. "Milim, why don't you show Ramiris around? I'll join you both shortly."

Milim nodded eagerly. "Okay, Brother! Come on, Ramiris, I'll show you all the cool stuff!"

As Milim and Ramiris floated off, chattering animatedly, Reinhard watched them go, a contemplative look on his face. Despite his earlier dismissal, there was a certain fondness he felt for Ramiris, a remnant of the times they had shared. Perhaps her presence would be a welcome distraction for Milim.

Ramiris and Milim floated through the grand halls of Gladsheimr, their conversation lively and animated. The domain was a breathtaking mix of golden architecture and otherworldly beauty, a testament to Reinhard's immense power and taste. As they moved, Ramiris couldn't help but share her memories with the younger Milim.

"You know, when I first met Reinhard, he was so cold and distant," Ramiris began, her eyes sparkling with the recollection. "He barely acknowledged my presence and always seemed lost in his thoughts. But over time, he opened up a bit. I think he started to see me as more than just an annoying fairy."

Milim giggled, her interest piqued. "Really? I can't imagine Brother being anything but kind, at least to me. What changed?"

Ramiris grinned. "I kept pestering him, of course! And he saw that I wasn't going anywhere. Plus, he realized I had some useful skills and knowledge. Eventually, he started to share his incredible inventions with me. You have no idea how much his gadgets have changed my life!"

She paused, dramatically pulling out a small, intricate device from her pocket. "Like this! It's a magical energy converter. It helps me channel my powers more efficiently. Reinhard made it for me."

Milim's eyes widened in admiration. "That's so cool! Brother really is amazing. But you know, he spoils me a lot too."

Ramiris raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? How so?"

Milim beamed, her pride evident. "Well, he teaches me so many things! He even bakes me cakes and plays catch with me. And look at this!" She reached into her pocket and pulled out a beautifully crafted pendant. "He made this for me. It has protective charms and everything. He says it's to keep me safe."

Ramiris examined the pendant, her expression softening. "That's really beautiful, Milim. He must care about you a lot."

The two continued their tour, with Milim eagerly showing off various parts of Gladsheimr, each area more impressive than the last. As they passed through a grand library filled with ancient tomes and magical artifacts, Ramiris couldn't help but be amazed.

"Wow, this place is incredible," Ramiris said, her voice filled with awe. "Reinhard's domain is like a treasure trove of knowledge and power."

Milim nodded enthusiastically. "It is! Brother says I need to learn a lot to become strong and wise. He wants me to be able to command an army someday."

Ramiris chuckled. "He's always thinking ahead, isn't he? That's one thing I admire about him. He always has a plan."

Milim's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Yes! And he's teaching me everything he knows. I want to be just like him when I grow up."

Ramiris smiled warmly. "You're lucky to have him, Milim. And I'm sure you'll become just as amazing as he is, if not more."

As they continued to explore Gladsheimr, their conversation remained centered around Reinhard. Ramiris shared more stories of their past encounters, while Milim eagerly soaked up every detail, adding her own experiences to the mix. It was clear that both of them held Reinhard in the highest regard, each cherishing the unique bond they had with him.

Eventually, they reached a beautiful garden filled with rare and exotic plants, a serene contrast to the grandeur of the rest of Gladsheimr. They settled onto a bench, still chatting animatedly.

"You know, Milim," Ramiris said, her tone turning thoughtful. "Reinhard might seem distant and intimidating to others, but to those he cares about, he's incredibly protective and kind. It's a rare quality, and it makes him very special."

Milim nodded, her expression serious. "I know, Ramiris. He's the best brother ever. I'll always be grateful to him."

Ramiris smiled, feeling a deep sense of camaraderie with the young girl. Despite their different experiences, they shared a common bond through Reinhard, and it made their connection all the more meaningful.

As they sat there, surrounded by the beauty of Gladsheimr, they both felt a profound sense of contentment, knowing they were part of something extraordinary.

As Ramiris and Milim continued their tour of Gladsheimr, Ramiris suddenly paused, her expression shifting as she received a telepathic message from Reinhard.

"I'll be leaving Milim with you for a while. Velgaia will guard you both. Take care of her."

The message was brief, but its implications were clear. Ramiris nodded to herself, then turned to Milim. "Looks like we'll be spending some more time together, Milim."

Milim, always eager for more company and adventure, cheered. "Yay! Let's go find something fun to do!"

Just then, Velgaia, the small dragon formed from Veldanava's essence, appeared, silently taking its place as their protector. Its presence was reassuring, a symbol of Reinhard's careful planning and care for those he cherished.

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Reinhard teleported to the Cardinal World, his overwhelming presence immediately drawing attention. Within moments, the three True Dragons - Veldora, Velzard, and Velgrynd - flew towards him, their curiosity and concern evident.

Veldora, always the most brash, was the first to speak. "Reinhard, what's going on? Why are you here?"

Reinhard spoke. "I've got some big news. There's a new True Dragon. One I made from Father's flesh."

The dragons stared at him in shock. Velzard, usually composed, looked taken aback. "You made another True Dragon? How is that even possible?"

Reinhard shrugged, a glint of pride in his eyes. "It wasn't easy, but I did it. This new dragon is in Gladsheimr right now, growing stronger every day."

Velgrynd's fiery demeanor was tempered by concern. "Why did you do it? What's the purpose?"

Reinhard's expression turned serious. "It felt necessary. This new dragon will be powerful, a valuable ally for Milim. I thought you all should know."

Veldora, uncharacteristically subdued, asked, "Can we meet this new dragon?"

"Not yet," Reinhard replied. "It's still developing. When the time is right, I'll introduce you."

The dragons exchanged looks, processing the news. Finally, Velzard nodded, her icy exterior softening slightly. "Alright, Reinhard. We trust you. Keep us informed."

Reinhard smiled, appreciating their trust. "Will do. For now, just know it's in good hands."

With that, the True Dragons took off, leaving Reinhard alone. He watched them go, feeling a mix of relief and anticipation. He knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but he was ready for whatever came next.

Satisfied with his announcement, Reinhard teleported back to Gladsheimr, ready to continue guiding the new dragon's growth and keeping an eye on the future.

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