The Capital (III)

After waking up and getting ready to take care of her sister in the other room, Su Lingxi opened her inventory. "I need to learn more skills and get stronger, for my sister," she thought to herself. Once prepared, she walked towards Xue Li's room, carrying a tray of food. She knocked twice, "Li'er? I'm coming in."

Su Lingxi entered and saw her sister sitting in front of the vanity table, staring at her reflection. "Li'er? Are you physically okay now?" Su Lingxi asked with concern.

"I'm okay, big sister," Xue Li replied emotionlessly.

"I brought food, come let me feed you," Su Lingxi said, approaching her with the tray. She set it down gently and helped Xue Li to the table.

As Su Lingxi began to feed her sister, she couldn't help but feel a deep sadness seeing Xue Li so devoid of emotion. Despite the stoic exterior, Su Lingxi knew the trauma her sister had endured was immense. Each spoonful of food she offered was not just nourishment, but a silent promise of protection and a vow to seek justice for the pain inflicted on Xue Li.

"You'll get better, Li'er," Su Lingxi said softly. "I'll make sure of it. We'll get through this together."

Xue Li looked at her sister with those hollow eyes, and for a brief moment, Su Lingxi thought she saw a flicker of something maybe hope, maybe recognition. It was enough to strengthen her resolve.

After the meal, Su Lingxi decided it was time to utilize her inventory. She needed to be prepared for whatever challenges lay ahead. The thought of her sister's safety fueled her determination. She couldn't afford to be weak, not now.

"Li'er, rest here for a while. I have some things I need to take care of, but I won't be far," Su Lingxi said, gently tucking her sister back into bed.

Stepping out of the room, Su Lingxi accessed her inventory again, ready to use the cards and items she had been holding onto. Her journey for power and protection was just beginning, and she was determined to be the force her sister needed to feel safe again.

Su Lingxi walked towards Princess Celestia's room, her eyes fixed on her inventory. "System, what is this Character Fragment?" she thought to herself. Almost immediately, a system panel popped up with an explanation:

Character Fragment

Description: A material to build a Loyal Subordinate. The host needs 4 character fragments to create a Loyal Subordinate:

1 Fragment for Head

1 Fragment for Torso

1 Fragment for Arms

1 Fragment for Legs

Additional Requirement:

Element Fragment to grant the Loyal Subordinate Elemental Power.

Note:

The Loyal Subordinate can improve via upgrade using the host's Skill Points and Stat Points.

After reading the system's explanation, Su Lingxi was left speechless. "W-Wow," she murmured. An idea began to form in her mind. "With this, creating an organization by myself, free of worry and betrayal, is possible!" Su Lingxi said, her eyes lighting up with excitement.

As she continued towards Princess Celestia's room, the possibilities swirled in her mind. An organization of loyal subordinates, each imbued with elemental powers, all dedicated to her causethis could be the key to ensuring her sister's safety and achieving her goals without the constant fear of betrayal.

She reached Princess Celestia's door and knocked softly. "Princess Celestia, may I come in?"

"Enter," came the princess's graceful reply.

Su Lingxi stepped inside, finding Princess Celestia seated at her desk, a soft smile on her face. "Su Lingxi, what brings you here?" the princess asked.

"Princess, is there a way to hasten your coronation?" Su Lingxi asked.

Princess Celestia sighed, her expression serious. "My brother is also gathering power and influence to claim the throne. We're fighting for the crown, so defeating him is the best move to hasten my coronation."

Su Lingxi nodded thoughtfully. "If that's the case, we can weaken his forces and influence, right?"

The princess's eyes sparkled with a hint of hope. "Yes, in fact, I sent Aurelious to investigate this matter yesterday. We'll see in his report if he or any of his followers are engaged in illegal activities. If they are, we can shut down their operations, which would severely impact his financial status."

Su Lingxi's eyes gleamed with determination. "If that's the case, let me be the one to destroy their business. It's much more effective to send me alone. I'm not good at politics like Aurelious, but in terms of destructive power, no one can beat me."

Princess Celestia considered this for a moment before nodding. "Your strength and capabilities are indeed unmatched, Su Lingxi. Very well, I trust you with this mission. But be careful my brother is cunning, and his followers are not to be underestimated."

"I understand, Princess. I won't let you down," Su Lingxi promised, bowing respectfully.

As Su Lingxi left the room, she felt a renewed sense of purpose. She was determined to help Princess Celestia secure the throne and bring stability to the kingdom. Her mind was already racing with strategies on how to dismantle her brother's operations and weaken his influence.

Her next steps were clear: she would need to gather intelligence, identify key targets, and plan her attacks carefully. With her unmatched power and the system's help, she was confident she could tip the scales in Princess Celestia's favor.

She headed back to her sister's room, her resolve stronger than ever. She had a mission, and she would see it through to the end. For her sister, for the kingdom, and for Princess Celestia.

Su Lingxi entered Xue Li's room quietly and saw her sister staring at the ceiling. She walked over and sat on the bed. "Li'er, what are you thinking?" Su Lingxi asked, her voice filled with care.

"Why did you change your name, Big Sister? Should I change mine too?" Xue Li asked emotionlessly.

"You don't have to," Su Lingxi explained gently. "I changed mine when I inherited my master's power and responsibility. You don't have to change your name. But if you want, we can change your name too."

Xue Li looked at her sister, her expression as blank as ever. "I want to change my name too. I feel disconnected from you."

Su Lingxi thought to herself, "She's more talkative. Transforming the feelings to experiences worked."

"If that's what you want, what should we name you?" Su Lingxi asked.

"Give me a new name, Sister," Xue Li replied.

"Do you want a completely new name, or something like mine?" Su Lingxi inquired.

Xue Li looked out the window, deep in thought. After some time, she turned back to Su Lingxi, a small spark in her previously blank and dead eyes. "Sister, I want a completely new name, and I also want to continue my dream."

"Okay then, let's have a last name instead of just a middle name. What do you think?" Su Lingxi suggested.

"Yes, so that we have a new connection," Xue Li said, with an almost unnoticeable excitement.

Su Lingxi smiled, feeling a warmth in her heart. "Alright. How about Su as a middle name, and Xinyue as your first name, and Apocalypse for our last name?" Su Lingxi suggested, but before they could finalize the decision, there was a knock on the door, and Princess Celestia entered the room along with Aurelious.

"Princess? Please, have a seat," Su Lingxi said, gesturing for them to sit down.

"You might not know, but it's not that easy to have a name or change your name," Princess Celestia began.

"What do you mean?" Su Lingxi asked, puzzled.

"The length of your name is decided by the world. The world system will look at your status and decide if you can have another name," Princess Celestia explained.

"I see. Can you explain a little more?" Su Lingxi inquired.

"Okay, first, single names are for commoners, while having two names is for the rich and influential people. Having three names is for leaders, like royalty or nobles," Princess Celestia elaborated.

"I understand. It looks like I'll need to work hard to gain a new name," Su Lingxi said, determined.

"Sister, I can help you with that," Xue Li suddenly interjected, surprising Su Lingxi with her proposal.

"Are you okay with that?" Su Lingxi asked, taken aback by Xue Li's offer.

"I'll take care of being rich, while Sister will be the one being influential," Xue Li explained further.

Su Lingxi couldn't help but feel touched by her sister's willingness to help. With Xue Li by her side, she felt more confident in facing the challenges ahead. "Thank you, Li'er. Let's work together to achieve our goals," Su Lingxi said, smiling warmly at her sister.

"Since you two had a plan in mind, let's get to the point," Princess Celestia declared, her tone serious. The atmosphere in the room suddenly became more tense.

"I see, so it's time," Su Lingxi said calmly as Aurelius handed over the map and information. Su Lingxi studied the map, noting multiple locations marked with red dots.

"They're cultivating plants that induce an addictive and hallucinatory state. Overconsumption can lead to a death-like state. This substance is highly addictive and banned, yet they continue to produce it," Princess Celestia explained.

"I see. This is indeed a profitable business, but its risks are too high. Should I destroy their production?" Su Lingxi asked, ready for action.

"Yes, but I'll leave everything to you," Princess Celestia replied.

"Hmm, I'll pay them a visit tonight," Su Lingxi said, determination in her voice.

"Aurelius is on the investigation, and you'll handle the destruction. I'll take care of the political problems here," Princess Celestia stated.

"Don't worry, Princess. I'll do anything to complete the missions you've given me," Aurelius assured.

"Thank you. I'll leave the intelligence to you," Princess Celestia said, nodding at Aurelius.

"We won't take any more of your time. We'll go now," Princess Celestia said, signaling their departure.

"Thank you, Princess," Su Lingxi said gratefully as the two left the room, leaving her to prepare for the task ahead.

After the two left, Su Lingxi sat beside Xue Li. "What are you thinking about?" Su Lingxi asked.

"I'm thinking about inventing a product to help you, Sister," Xue Li replied.

"Li'er, I have many books that I inherited from my master. Do you want to read them?" Su Lingxi offered.

"Yes, can I see them?" Xue Li responded with a spark of interest.

Su Lingxi summoned a book titled "Magical Items" and handed it to Xue Li. "Here, take your time," Su Lingxi said warmly.

"Thank you, Sister," Xue Li said, accepting the book eagerly.

Su Lingxi then went to the corner of the room, opened her inventory, and stared at it for a while. After some contemplation, she grabbed a High-Rank Skill Card and activated it. A system message appeared:

1 High Rank Skill Activated. New Skill Learned: "Orb of Destruction" - An automatic skill. Once activated, an orb will float behind the caster, acting as a defensive barrier. It can be thrown, and once thrown, the orb will explode. The power of the explosion depends on the caster's Destruction Element.

"Perfect," Su Lingxi thought to herself, feeling a surge of power and readiness. She turned her attention back to Xue Li, who was engrossed in the book. Determined to protect her sister and support her newfound ambitions, Su Lingxi felt a renewed sense of purpose.

"Li'er, with your intellect and creativity, and my strength and skills, we will make a formidable team," Su Lingxi thought, her resolve strengthening with every passing moment. The path ahead was challenging, but with their combined efforts, they were ready to face whatever came their way.

After some time, Su Lingxi left Xue Li and made her way to the castle's training ground. She observed the soldiers training with intense focus.

"Who is she?" one soldier whispered.

"I think she's a noble's daughter," another soldier replied.

"But look at that hair. Do you know anyone with white hair?" a third soldier remarked.

Ignoring their whispers, Su Lingxi transformed her dress into its battle form and grabbed a sword from the stand. After a moment, a female soldier approached her.

"Do you want to spar, miss?" the female soldier asked.

"My name is Su Lingxi. Nice to meet you," Su Lingxi said, bowing elegantly.

"It's nice to meet you too. My name is Diana," the female soldier replied.

"Then, let us start, Diana," Su Lingxi said, positioning herself with a determined expression.

"Yes, Ms. Su," Diana responded, taking her stance.

The two circled each other, assessing their opponent's stance and readiness. Su Lingxi moved first, her sword slicing through the air with precision and grace. Diana parried, matching Su Lingxi's movements with practiced skill.

Su Lingxi's battle dress shimmered as she moved, enhancing her agility and strength. She launched a series of rapid strikes, testing Diana's defenses. Diana held her ground, countering with skillful blocks and precise attacks.

The sparring match drew the attention of the other soldiers, who stopped their training to watch. They were captivated by Su Lingxi's prowess and the fluidity of her movements.

"She's incredible," one soldier muttered.

"Definitely not just a noble's daughter," another remarked.

Su Lingxi and Diana continued their duel, each strike and parry resonating with a rhythm of its own. Su Lingxi's focus was unwavering, her mind sharp and clear. With a final, swift move, Su Lingxi disarmed Diana, her sword clattering to the ground.

Diana stepped back, breathing heavily but smiling. "You are truly skilled, Ms. Su."

"Thank you, Diana. You are a formidable opponent," Su Lingxi replied, bowing slightly.

The soldiers around them erupted in applause, impressed by the display of skill and sportsmanship. Su Lingxi returned the sword to the stand and reverted her dress to its original form. As she walked away, she couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. Her abilities had grown, and with each passing day, she was becoming stronger.

Another female soldier approached the two, her expression stern and disapproving. "What's with that disgraceful swordsmanship you just showed?" she shouted at Diana.

"Sorry, Ms. Anne," Diana said, looking down, her voice filled with shame.

"What's up with this rude person?" Su Lingxi thought to herself.

Anne summoned her spiritual sword, its ethereal blade shimmering in the light. She fixed her gaze on Su Lingxi. "Come, let's fight. I'll show you how we soldiers truly fight," Anne declared, her tone challenging.

"Then come," Su Lingxi responded calmly. A white orb materialized in front of her, transforming into her katana as she grasped it. "Having a spiritual weapon is not that great," she remarked, her eyes steady on Anne.

With a furious dash, Anne charged at Su Lingxi. "So slow," Su Lingxi said, effortlessly parrying Anne's attack. "Is that all you can do?" she taunted.

"You!" Anne replied angrily, her face flushed with rage.

Anne launched a flurry of attacks, each strike more desperate than the last. Su Lingxi deflected them with ease, her movements precise and fluid. Anne's anger only grew with each failed attempt to land a hit.

"Your technique is aggressive, but lacks control," Su Lingxi observed, her voice calm and analytical. "Relying solely on brute force won't get you far."

Anne's frustration peaked. She gathered her energy for a powerful strike, her spiritual sword glowing with an intense light. With a roar, she unleashed her attack, aiming directly for Su Lingxi.

Su Lingxi moved swiftly, sidestepping the blow and countering with a swift strike of her own. Her katana met Anne's spiritual sword with a resounding clash, disarming Anne and sending her weapon flying.

Breathing heavily, Anne fell to her knees, her eyes wide with disbelief. Su Lingxi stood over her, her expression calm but resolute.

"You have potential, but you need to control your emotions and refine your technique," Su Lingxi said, extending a hand to help Anne up. "A true warrior masters both their mind and body."

Anne hesitated, then took Su Lingxi's hand, rising to her feet. "Thank you for the lesson," she said, her voice quieter and more respectful.

The soldiers around them watched in silence, impressed by Su Lingxi's skill and wisdom. Su Lingxi sheathed her katana, the white orb dissipating as she did so.

"Remember, strength alone isn't enough. It's how you use it that truly matters," Su Lingxi said, her words resonating with the soldiers who had witnessed the duel.

"Are you one of the Arcane Knights?" Anne asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"No, I don't even know what that is," Su Lingxi replied, her words leaving Anne and the crowd shocked.

"The Arcane Knights are the most elite knights of the Arcane Kingdom," Anne explained, her voice filled with awe. "Wait, how did you get here?"

"I'm Princess Celestia's subordinate, and I'm not a knight I'm a mage," Su Lingxi said, causing another wave of astonishment to ripple through the crowd.

"H-How can you be so good at swordsmanship when you're a mage?" Anne stammered, struggling to reconcile Su Lingxi's skill with her declared profession.

Su Lingxi glanced up at the sky, realizing the sun was already setting. "Oh, I didn't realize it was this late. Sorry, but I have to go back now," she said, her tone polite yet firm.

As Su Lingxi turned to leave, the crowd watched her with a mix of respect and bewilderment. Anne stood there, still processing what she'd just witnessed. Su Lingxi walked away, her mind already shifting to her next tasks and responsibilities.

Back at the castle, Su Lingxi found herself thinking about the day's events. Her display of skill had certainly left an impression, but there was still much work to be done. She couldn't afford to be distracted by idle curiosity or the admiration of soldiers. Her priority remained her sister, the princess, and the mission at hand.

Returning to Xue Li's room, she found her sister still engrossed in the book Su Lingxi had given her. The sight brought a small, satisfied smile to Su Lingxi's face. She approached quietly, not wanting to disturb Xue Li's concentration.

"How are you finding the book, Li'er?" Su Lingxi asked softly.

Xue Li looked up, her eyes reflecting a newfound determination. "It's fascinating, Sister. I think I can come up with some ideas from this."

"Good. I'm glad it's helpful," Su Lingxi said. "Remember, we're in this together. Whatever challenges we face, we'll overcome them."

Xue Li nodded, her expression more animated than it had been in days. "Yes, Sister. We'll do it together."

With renewed resolve, Su Lingxi left Xue Li to her studies and headed to her own quarters. She needed to prepare for the mission Princess Celestia had given her. The night would be long, but Su Lingxi was ready. For her sister, for the princess, and for the future she was determined to secure.