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71.11% The Young Demon Lord and her Maid-Knight / Chapter 64: Ruby? 2

Chapter 64: Ruby? 2

"It smells so good," Ella remarked, inhaling deeply as she watch them cooking. The tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread, roasted meats, and a variety of herbs and spices filled the air.

"Indeed," Levy chimed in, her eyes wide with anticipation. She could already see the array of dishes laid out on the wooden table, each one more appetizing than the last.

"Yes, this is one of Ruby's special feasts," Elara said with a happy smile on her face. She looked around at her friends, feeling a warm sense of contentment. The flickering candlelight added a magical glow to the room, highlighting the delicious spread Ruby had prepared.

"Now, now, Elara, do not spill all my secrets," Ruby teased, waving a wooden spoon playfully in Elara's direction. "And I only chose to make this because of you, I might add."

"Because of me?" Elara asked, tilting her head in surprise.

"Yes, of course, because of you," Ruby replied, her eyes twinkling. "We are celebrating that you found yourself someone to serve, guide, and protect. Just like a true maid-knight, even though you still have a lot to learn."

Elara's head began to flush red, her cheeks turning a bright shade of crimson. She ducked her head, feeling a mix of embarrassment and pride. The group began to laugh good-naturedly at her reaction, the sound of their mirth filling the room and blending with the crackling fire in the hearth.

As they settled around the table, the conversation flowed easily, filled with jokes, stories, and the occasional teasing remark. Elara couldn't help but feel grateful for her friends and the bond they shared, made even stronger by moments like this.

"It is crazy how much you are carrying around, Ruby," Levy remarked, shaking her head in disbelief. "A wooden table, chairs, and all that kitchen stuff!"

Ruby just laughed. "Well, I wouldn't be a good maid-knight if I didn't have all this and couldn't do what I do." She turned her head with a teasing look in her eye, watching Elara as she stared down at the table.

"But enough of that," Ruby said, shifting her attention. "Tell me, Lilith, what have you learned so far? And tell me more about your adventures. I understand you were taught the ways of a battle-mage."

"Ahh, yes," Lilith began, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "I learned the ways of the battle-mage from an adventurer named Kai. He's a demon from Bez'Eru and was a great teacher to me. I learned not only the way of the battle-mage but also more adventuring skills that Elara didn't teach me. It was a long few months, and I ended my training with a solo adventure quest from the guild in Bez'Eru."

"My quest was to gather information about the mining site close to Bez'Eru. There was a necromancer up in the mountains that the lord's son of Bez'Eru defeated with help from some skilled adventurers. But after their fight, something strange happened."

Lilith looked at Elara with a knowing question in her eyes, and Elara just nodded to her.

"There were still undead afterward, and I was tasked to check out the mines. I found nothing, so I trailed up to the old fortress where they killed the necromancer. It was there I met a Demon Lord from another world. His name is Jakinn."

"Jakinn!" Ruby exclaimed. "What is he doing here?"

"You know of Jakinn?" Elara chimed in.

"Yes, I know of him. He is known as a DESTROYER among the gods. But I know him personally, and if you met him, he must have told you something. So, what did he tell you?"

"Well, you see," Lilith began once more, "it all started with Jakinn killing Elara as I was fighting him. He was trying to make me use all my power and potential. I was so mad at the time, I lost my mind to rage. And before I knew it, I woke up some time afterward. Elara was there next to Ella, watching over me. And Jakinn was in the background, just waiting. Then he told us that the balance of this world was broken, but that I could fix it if I brought this necklace to the World Tree sapling."

The room fell silent as Lilith finished her story, the weight of her words settling over them. Ruby's eyes narrowed in thought, while Levy looked both amazed and concerned.

"The World Tree sapling," Ruby murmured. "That is no small task. Did he say why?"

"He only said that we might meet again in a year or so," Lilith remarked.

"Oh, so that was the guy I met some time ago," Levy said, her eyes widening as she began her story. "One day, when I was working on the barrier around the island where the World Tree sapling is, a strange shadowy figure appeared. I was so confused, I didn't even know what happened, but I fell asleep and woke up near a campfire. The figure began to speak to me. He said I was doing a great job as the guardian, but soon I would meet others. He told me he was surprised how a small faerie like me could make such a great barrier and that he could tell I'd been doing it for many years. He even said it must have taken thousands of years to make this sort of barrier around the sapling's island."

Ruby listened intently, her expression thoughtful. "So, it seems Jakinn has been keeping an eye on all of you in his own way."

Elara nodded, her face serious. "He's testing us, preparing us for something bigger."

Levy continued, "He seemed impressed by the barrier, but also hinted that it might not be enough. He said others would come to help, and that together, we could protect the World Tree sapling and restore the balance."

"Well, it looks like you're those 'others' he mentioned," Ruby said with a determined look. "you have to be ready for whatever comes next."

Lilith nodded. "Yes, and with the necklace and all of us working together, I believe we can restore the balance and protect the sapling."

Elara smiled at her friends, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Then let's make sure we're prepared. We'll train harder, learn more, and face whatever challenges come our way together."

The group exchanged resolute glances, each of them committed to the task ahead. They knew their journey would be difficult, but with their combined strength and determination, they felt ready to face any obstacles that might come their way.

"Tell me more about this necklace, Lilith," Ruby began once more, her curiosity piqued.

Lilith took out the necklace and held it up. Whispering softly, she said, "Aurora of the Northern Light, speak with us."

A soft glow emanated from the necklace, and a voice responded, "Ahh, young one. It's been a long time. Wait... is that you, Sorina?" Aurora exclaimed in surprise.

Ruby giggled. "So this is why the necklace felt so familiar. It was hosting Aurora's soul. Now it all makes sense to me. Hello, my dear old friend. I go by the name Ruby now. Sorina is from the ancient days."

Aurora began laughing, her voice filled with joy. "I didn't think I would ever hear your voice again. It's been over 11,000 years."

Ruby's eyes softened as she listened to Aurora's voice. "Yes, it has been a long time, Aurora. I never expected to be reunited with you in this way. How did you end up in this necklace?"

"I... I... I..." Aurora's voice trembled. "I lost a fight with a Demon Lord, and he bound my soul to this necklace so he could use my power. Luckily—or unluckily—I managed to shorten his life during our fight, and at some point, he lost me."

"10,000 years later, Lilith found me, and together, we are going to the World Tree sapling to bring back the balance to the world. Or so Jakinn told us to do," Aurora explained.

Ruby's eyes softened with understanding. "I'm sorry for what you've been through, Aurora. But I'm glad you're here with us now. Your knowledge and power will be invaluable in your quest."

Lilith nodded, holding the glowing necklace tightly. "Aurora has been guiding me, helping me understand the importance of our mission and the history of the balance we need to restore. Jakinn said the World Tree sapling is the key to fixing everything."

Elara looked thoughtful. "If Jakinn, a Demon Lord known as the DESTROYER among the gods, is telling us to restore the balance, then the situation must be dire indeed. We have to be prepared for anything."

Ella fluttered her wings, her determination evident. "Aurora, what else can you tell us about the World Tree sapling and the balance we're trying to restore?"

Aurora's voice steadied as she began to explain. "The World Tree sapling is a beacon of life and balance. It connects all realms and ensures harmony. When the balance is disrupted, it affects all living beings. Dark forces have been trying to corrupt the sapling, to twist its power for their own ends. That's why Jakinn, despite his destructive nature, seeks to restore the balance. He understands the consequences of its loss."

Ruby nodded. "Then you must protect the sapling at all costs. Aurora, with your guidance and you're combined strength, you will succeed."

Lilith looked at her friends, feeling a sense of unity and purpose. "We will face whatever challenges come our way. Together, we'll restore the balance and protect our world."

The group exchanged resolute glances, each of them committed to the task ahead. With Aurora's wisdom, Jakinn's cryptic guidance, and their unwavering determination, they felt ready to face any obstacles that might come their way. Their journey would be difficult, but with their bond and shared purpose, they were prepared to protect the World Tree sapling and restore harmony to their realm.


Chapter 65: Ruby? 3

Ruby clapped her hands together, her voice carrying a commanding yet warm tone. "With all that said and done, it is time, everyone. The food is ready, so let's feast and enjoy ourselves!"

As soon as the words left her lips, the air shimmered with a faint, magical glow. A long, ornate table appeared in the center of the cave, its surface carved from rich mahogany wood, polished to a mirror-like sheen. The table was adorned with intricate designs of leaves and flowers, as though the forest itself had woven its essence into the wood. Around it, chairs of various sizes emerged, each perfectly suited to the beings that would occupy them. At one end, a smaller table, just as elaborate, appeared specifically for the faeries, with tiny chairs to match their delicate forms.

Levy and Ella, their wings fluttering in excitement, flew over to the faerie table. Ella's eyes sparkled with delight as she took in the sight. "This is amazing—a table with a section just for faeries! This is so awesome!"

Levy nodded, her own joy reflected in her glowing smile. "It's perfect."

Ruby watched them with a satisfied grin before turning to Lilith. "Lilith, sit down over there. Elara and I will handle the rest. And take Tami with you; she can lie next to you. I've got some good food for her too."

Lilith, nodded. Her crimson eyes softened as she called over Tami, the little Fenrir pup. Tami bounded toward her, her midnight fur shining under the soft light of the cave. With a gentle nudge, Lilith guided Tami to a cushioned spot beside her chair, where a silver dish filled with tender cuts of meat awaited her. The pup wagged her tail happily before settling down beside Lilith, her sharp eyes watching everything with keen interest.

Ruby turned to Elara, her smirk widening. "Now, Elara, we can start our duty as maids, and I can see what you've learned in the many years we've been apart."

Elara, met Ruby's gaze with a determined smile. "Yes, Ruby," she said confidently. "I'll show you."

With a graceful wave of her hand, Elara summoned a series of floating trays, each laden with sumptuous dishes. The aroma of roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and spiced vegetables filled the air, mingling with the earthy scent of the cave. The walls, illuminated by the flickering glow of enchanted crystals embedded in the stone, seemed to dance with the warmth of the feast.

Ruby joined Elara, her movements equally fluid and precise. Together, they moved around the table, placing platters and bowls filled with a dazzling array of food. There were golden-brown pheasants, their skins crispy and glistening with honey glaze, bowls of steaming root vegetables seasoned with herbs, and loaves of bread still warm from the oven, their crusts crackling softly as they were set down. For dessert, there were delicate pastries filled with fruits and creams, and a towering cake adorned with edible flowers.

As Ruby and Elara worked, the atmosphere in the cave grew even more lively. The soft murmur of conversation filled the space, punctuated by bursts of laughter. The once quiet and secluded cave now felt like a grand hall, filled with the warmth and camaraderie of friends and family.

Levy and Ella, perched at their faerie table, were busy chattering away, their plates piled high with food that seemed to have been crafted specifically for their tastes—tiny, delicately seasoned morsels that burst with flavor. Levy was nibbling on a piece of fruit while Ella admired the craftsmanship of the faerie-sized cutlery.

Lilith, seated at the larger table, stroked Tami's fur as she glanced around the room, her eyes softening at the sight of her friends gathered together. She felt a sense of peace she hadn't known before. The warmth of the firelight flickered in her eyes as she watched Ruby and Elara work in tandem, their years of separation now bridged by the simple act of preparing a meal together.

Once everything was in place, Ruby and Elara took their seats. Ruby's eyes sparkled with satisfaction as she looked around the table. "Everyone, let's dig in!"

As they began to eat, the cave was filled with the sounds of clinking glasses and cheerful conversation. The food was as delicious as it smelled, each bite filled with the rich, comforting flavors of home-cooked meals. It was a feast not just of food, but of friendship, a celebration of the bonds that had brought them all together in this unlikely place.

The cave, once a silent and hidden refuge for the waypoint teleportation array, had become a place of joy and togetherness. The walls echoed with laughter and the clinking of glasses, a testament to the strength of the friendships that had been forged and the adventures that were yet to come.

Ruby looked over at Lilith, who was quietly enjoying her meal, then turned her gaze back to Elara. Her expression grew more serious as she leaned in slightly. "I might send her on a quest," Ruby said thoughtfully. "It will be good for her. It might take years from her perspective, but for us, it will feel like no time at all."

"A quest?" Elara murmured, her brows furrowing in concern.

Ruby nodded, her eyes glinting with the hint of a plan forming. "Yes, a quest. Something challenging, something that will push her beyond her limits. Jakinn would have done the same if he were here," she added, her voice softening at the mention of Jakinn. "This world is full of dangers and wonders, and she needs to be ready for them."

Elara glanced over at Lilith, who was unaware of the conversation, happily sharing a piece of meat with Tami. "Are you sure she's ready for something like this?" Elara asked, her voice tinged with worry.

"She has strength in her that she doesn't even realize yet," Ruby replied, her tone firm with conviction. "But she needs to discover it on her own. I will use my magic to send her away, to a place where she'll be tested. The only way she can return is by learning the art of teleportation."

Elara's eyes widened slightly. "Teleportation? That's advanced magic, Ruby. I can't even use it. And I had your guidance."

"And that's exactly why this quest will be so important for her," Ruby said, her voice unwavering. "She'll have to find her own path, just as we did. She won't be alone, she will have Aurora soul with her. I am sure with the dragon spirit guiding her, she can master it."

Elara studied Ruby's face, seeing the determination etched in her features. She knew Ruby's mind was set, and once she decided on something, it was nearly impossible to sway her. "When do you plan to tell her?" Elara asked quietly.

"Not yet," Ruby said, a faint smile touching her lips. "Tonight is about celebrating together. But soon, when the time is right, I'll tell her. She needs to enjoy these moments of peace while she can."

The two women sat in silence for a moment, the sounds of laughter and conversation filling the air around them. Ruby's gaze drifted back to Lilith, who was now laughing at something Levy had said, her crimson eyes glowing with happiness.

"I believe in her," Ruby murmured softly, more to herself than to Elara. "She'll come back stronger, wiser, and ready for whatever lies ahead."

Elara nodded, trusting in Ruby's judgment, even as a sliver of apprehension tugged at her heart. They had all faced their own trials and quests, each one shaping them into who they were today. Now it was Lilith's turn, and though the path would be difficult, it was a necessary step in her journey.

As the feast continued, the cave remained filled with warmth and joy, but beneath the surface, Ruby and Elara both knew that a new chapter was about to begin—one that would challenge Lilith in ways she had never imagined.


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