Formal Family Castle, Italica

March, 29, 2028 07:18 (29th day of the Crescent Moon 638)

Pina sat by a large, ornate window, her gaze distant as she looked out over the quiet town below. The soft light of the setting sun cast a golden glow over her, highlighting the intricate details of her regal armor. Her shoulders slumped, the weight of the metal adding to the sense of melancholy and introspection that filled the room.

"It's strange," Pina murmured. "We should be celebrating. The town and the people are safe... but why does it feel like a defeat?"

Across from her, Hamilton sat in silence, her expression mirroring the solemnity of her princess. She met Pina's gaze with quiet empathy, understanding the weight behind her words.

"It's because we've seen what lies beyond our world's capabilities, haven't we, Princess?" Hamilton said softly. "Their power... It's overwhelming. We fought with all our might, yet in the end, it was their strength that turned the tide."

She paused, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and resignation. "I thought we were prepared. But facing them... it was like trying to hold back a tide with our bare hands. Our victory feels hollow, overshadowed by what we've witnessed."

Pina nodded slowly, her gaze still fixed on the horizon outside the window. "It's as if our struggles and sacrifices weren't enough. Like we were merely bystanders in our own battle, watching as others determined the outcome."

She shifted uncomfortably in her armor, the weight of it becoming more pronounced as the reality of their situation sank in deeper. "Our people look to us for leadership and protection. How can we guide them when we ourselves feel... powerless?"

A soft voice broke the silence. "Princess Pina, Lady Hamilton, I understand your feelings. But shouldn't we also be grateful for what we have achieved? The town is safe, our people are unharmed. Isn't that what truly matters?"

Myui stepped forward, her youthful face showing relief rather than the somber introspection of Pina and Hamilton. Her words were gentle, yet there was a subtle edge to them.

Pina's eyes narrowed as she turned to face Myui, her frustration rising. "Grateful? Grateful for what, Myui? For standing helplessly while others fought our battles? For being shown time and again how insignificant our might is?"

Her voice rose, echoing through the chamber. The golden light from the setting sun caught the fire in her eyes, illuminating the depth of her frustration and anger. She pushed herself to her feet and began pacing, her armor clinking with each step, adding to the tension in the room.

"We are leaders! We are supposed to be the ones protecting our people, not relying on outsiders! How can we face them with pride when we know it was not our strength that saved them?"

Hamilton's expression wavered, torn between agreement and concern. "My lady..."

Before she could continue, the heavy wooden door creaked open, drawing all eyes toward the entrance. Grey stepped inside, his presence commanding immediate attention.

"Princess Pina, Lady Hamilton, Countess," he said, his voice calm and measured. "The leaders of the otherworlders have requested an audience with you."

The room fell into silence. The weight of Grey's words hung in the air, causing a shift in the atmosphere. Pina's anger momentarily dissipated, replaced by a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

She turned to Grey, her mind racing. "They want to meet with us? Now?"

Grey nodded, his gaze steady. "Yes, Your Highness. They wish to discuss the recent events and the future of our alliance."

Pina hesitated for only a moment before straightening her posture, the fire in her eyes rekindled, though tempered with caution.

"Very well," she said at last. "But I will meet with them only if the two men, Itami and Adam, are present."

Grey inclined his head in acknowledgment. "Very well, Your Highness. I will relay your request."





Grand Chambers, Formal Family Castle

March 29, 2028 – 07:40 (29th day of the Crescent Moon, 638)

The otherworlders bowed respectfully before the princess and the countess, their presence exuding authority and strength. Princess Pina Co Lada's sharp gaze assessed them carefully, standing with Hamilton and Grey at her side. Beside them, Countess Myui Formal sat upon her throne, the ever-watchful head maid, Kaine, standing attentively beside her.

Pina inclined her head, her voice measured. "We appreciate your willingness to meet with us. I am Princess Pina Co Lada, and this is Countess Myui Formal. We wish to thank you for your assistance in defending Italica."

A man in a green uniform stepped forward, his stance both formal and respectful.

"I am Commander Kengun of the Japan Self-Defense Forces," he introduced himself with a slight bow.

Next, a woman in dark brown took a step up, her posture crisp and professional.

"Lieutenant Chelsea Porter, United States Marine Corps."

Finally, a man clad in gray and black advanced, his demeanor confident and authoritative.

"I am Phillip Graves, leader of Shadow Company," he said with a smirk, his voice edged with a smooth, assured tone. "It's a pleasure to meet you both."

Pina's mind worked quickly to process the unfamiliar names and ranks, though she did not let her curiosity show. She maintained her composed, regal demeanor. Meanwhile, Myui, far less restrained in her approach, allowed her expression to soften as she addressed the visitors.

"Commander Kengun, Lieutenant Porter, Mr. Graves," Myui said, stepping forward slightly, "Italica is deeply grateful for your timely intervention. Your efforts saved many lives, and for that, we owe you a great debt."

Kengun nodded respectfully. "We were only fulfilling our duty. The safety of Italica and its people is of utmost importance."

Porter added with a firm yet friendly tone, "We're here to assist in any way we can. Our goal is to ensure stability and peace in this region."

Graves' eyes gleamed with a hint of amusement, his confident smile never faltering. "Shadow Company operates with the same intention. We'll provide the necessary support to keep the people safe."

Princess Pina stepped forward slightly, subtly asserting her presence. She directed a firm but respectful glance toward Countess Myui, a silent reminder of the hierarchy in place.

"Countess Myui," she said, "while we deeply appreciate the assistance of our allies, let us not forget that the ultimate responsibility for Italica's safety rests with its leaders."

Myui's eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of irritation crossing her face. "Of course, Princess Pina. But let us also not forget that Italica's safety was secured by the efforts of those who truly acted in its defense."

The atmosphere in the Grand Chambers thickened with tension, the weight of their exchange pressing upon the room. The otherworlders, sensing the undercurrents of authority and defiance, remained composed, their professionalism unshaken.

A man named Adam stepped forward, his expression earnest. "If I may, Princess Pina, Countess Myui," he said, "perhaps we should address a pressing matter—the captured bandits from the recent skirmish. Their fate needs to be decided swiftly to ensure stability within Italica."

Another man, clad in military fatigues, stepped forward, holding a rolled parchment in his hand. His demeanor was calm but firm as he handed the document to Hamilton, who accepted it with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

"These are the terms for the treatment of the captured bandits," Itami explained. "These guidelines follow our principles and ensure humane treatment, even for those who have committed grave offenses."

Hamilton unrolled the parchment, her eyes scanning the words quickly. Her expression shifted from curiosity to shock, her grip tightening on the document.

"This... this is unheard of," she stammered, her voice tinged with disbelief. "These men have brought nothing but suffering to the people. And yet, you expect us to treat them with kindness?"

Pina glanced at the parchment, her expression neutral even as her mind raced. Turning to the otherworlders, she measured her words carefully. "These are quite generous terms for those who have committed crimes against Italica. May I ask why you propose such leniency?"

Kengun met her gaze with an unwavering composure. "Our principles dictate that even those who have committed wrongs deserve humane treatment. By treating them fairly, we uphold our values and set a standard for justice and mercy."

Porter nodded. "We believe in maintaining order through respect and fairness. Harsh punishment often leads to more conflict, whereas fair treatment can pave the way for peace."

Graves, his confidence ever-present, simply nodded in agreement.

Pina considered their words, her mind grappling with the unfamiliar concept. She glanced at Hamilton, who still seemed taken aback, then turned to Myui. The young countess's expression softened slightly, her eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and cautious optimism.

"If these terms can help ensure stability and prevent further bloodshed," Myui said slowly, "perhaps it's worth considering. Italica has suffered enough."

Kengun stepped forward again, his expression serious. "We propose taking a portion of the prisoners into our custody."

Pina raised an eyebrow at the unexpected proposal but gave it careful thought. Finally, she nodded slowly.

"Very well," she said. "We will accept your terms for the humane treatment of the prisoners and agree to transfer some of them to your custody."

Kengun inclined his head in gratitude. "Thank you, Princess Pina. We will ensure they are treated fairly. Now, let us move on to other matters."

Downtown, Italica

March 29, 2028 - 08:55 (29th day of the Crescent Moon, 638)

Itami and Adam walked side by side through the bustling streets of Italica, their expressions more relaxed now that negotiations had concluded. Soldiers and Marines passed by, offering nods and casual greetings, the tension from earlier slowly fading.

"So, I guess we choose who we're taking back then?" Adam asked, glancing at his companion.

"Yeah, that's the gist of it," Itami replied with a nod.

Adam exhaled. "Good. I'm just glad things went smoothly."

"No kidding. Negotiations could've been a disaster," Itami agreed.

"At least we sorted it out without any major issues."

"You think they'll be okay with who we've chosen?"

Adam smirked faintly. "They'll be glad just to get out of here. Remember how shocked that Hamilton girl was when she read our terms?"

Itami chuckled, recalling the stunned expression on the young noblewoman's face. The people of this world had seemed dumbfounded by the idea that prisoners could be treated humanely. Due process, rights, and humane treatment—things taken for granted on Earth—were almost alien here.

"Yeah, I remember. It's like they couldn't believe we weren't going to torture or execute them," Itami said.

Adam's expression remained neutral. "Well, some of us do those things."

Itami's smile faded slightly. "Yeah... unfortunately."

As they neared the POW processing site, three familiar faces approached them: Kurata, Perez, and Hill.

"Itami! Adam! How'd the meeting go?" Kurata called out.

Itami sighed. "As good as it could get. How are the prisoners?"

"They're gathered and going through screening," Kurata reported.

Perez, ever efficient, added, "The Marines and Kengun's guys set up temporary holding areas nearby. They're cooperative so far, given the circumstances."

Hill, always observant, spoke with a note of caution. "A few seem uneasy. But overall, they're compliant."

Before Itami or Adam could respond, a voice called out.

"Lieutenant! Sergeant Adam!"

Nishina sprinted toward them, his face flushed with urgency.

Itami frowned, instantly alert. "What kind of trouble, Nishina?"

"Some locals are trying to force their way into the inn," Nishina said, still catching his breath.

Adam's brows furrowed. "Why?"

"I'm not sure, sir, but they seem pretty agitated."

Adam and Itami exchanged a quick glance before Itami nodded. "Alright, lead the way."

They followed Nishina, moving swiftly through the streets as the atmosphere grew tense. Rounding a corner, they spotted a group of local men in a heated argument with Tomita and Kuribayashi, who stood firm at the inn's entrance, blocking their way.

One man, red-faced and visibly agitated, pointed an accusing finger. "You're hiding something of ours in there! We demand you let us in!"

Kuribayashi clenched her fist, her patience wearing thin. Before she could react, Adam stepped in, his calm but firm presence momentarily defusing the situation.

"Hold it," Adam said, his tone flat but authoritative. "Let's take a step back before this turns into something you'll regret."

Itami added, "What exactly do you people believe we're holding, and why do you think it's here?"

A man dressed in finer clothes than the rest stepped forward with an air of authority and indignation.

"I am Darius, a merchant of some renown in these parts. I have reason to believe that a product of mine is being kept inside your makeshift infirmary."

Adam's expression didn't change, but Itami exchanged a glance with him—both immediately wary.

"A product?" Adam repeated, his voice devoid of emotion.

Darius straightened. "I am a slave trader. One of my slaves, a particularly valuable one, went missing during the battle. I have reason to believe she is in this inn."

Silence followed. A slow, cold wave of tension settled over the group.

Adam remained still, unreadable. Itami's jaw tightened. Kuribayashi visibly bristled.

Andrew would have had something to say about this.

Adam, however, simply exhaled. "We don't deal in slaves."

Darius narrowed his eyes. "Nevertheless, I insist on searching the premises. My asset is worth a significant amount, and I cannot afford to lose her."

Kuribayashi took a step forward, but Adam raised a hand, stopping her.

"You're not stepping foot inside," Adam said coolly. "This is a medical facility. The only thing in there is wounded people. If your slave was taken, then she's not yours anymore."

Darius clenched his fists. "This is unacceptable!"

Adam's stare hardened. "Then go complain to someone who cares."

Darius hesitated. He wasn't used to people talking to him like this. The soldiers around him, armed and ready, made his choices even clearer. With a huff, he relented.

"Very well. But I expect this matter to be resolved quickly. My patience is wearing thin."

Adam's reply was immediate. "Not my problem."

Darius' eyes flickered with frustration, but he finally turned, motioning for his men to step back.

As soon as they were gone, Itami sighed. "Well. That was fun."

"Let's go inside," Adam said. "I have a feeling we know exactly who he's looking for."

Adam stepped into the dimly lit inn, his eyes scanning the room. The scent of antiseptic mixed with the faint smell of blood and sweat, a stark reminder of the casualties the battle had left behind. A few cots were occupied by the wounded, Navy corpsmen tending to them. Civilians, most of them frightened but cooperative, huddled in corners or lay resting.

Itami peeled off to check in with one of the corpsmen, while Adam moved further inside, looking for the one person who would undoubtedly have an opinion on the situation.

He found her near the far end of the room. Lelei, the young mage, was kneeling beside a cot, carefully wrapping a bandage around a child's arm. The little girl winced but didn't cry, watching Lelei with wide, curious eyes. Lelei worked with precision, her expression calm and composed.

Adam approached, stopping a respectful distance away. "Lelei."

She glanced up, acknowledging him with a nod before returning to her task. "Adam."

"You seen Andrew?"

Lelei finished tying the bandage and gave the child a reassuring pat on the head before rising to her feet. She dusted off her robe and turned to face Adam fully. "He was here a few minutes ago. He went to check on someone in one of the back rooms."

Adam's lips pressed into a thin line. "Did he now..."

Before Lelei could respond, a familiar voice chimed in from nearby.

"Mr. Adam, is something wrong?"

Adam turned to see Tuka watching him with mild concern. Her ears twitched slightly, sensing the tension in the air.

He exhaled, shaking his head. "No. Just found who I was looking for."

He glanced over his shoulder toward the entrance, where Itami was still speaking with a corpsman.

"Lieutenant," Adam called over, his voice carrying through the room. "Come on."

Itami looked up, raising an eyebrow before sighing. "Alright, alright."

With that, Adam turned and made his way toward the back rooms, already certain of what—or rather, who—he was about to find.

Adam and Itami walked down the dimly lit hallway, the murmurs of the wounded fading behind them. Adam's jaw set in that unreadable way that meant he already knew what was happening behind the door ahead.

Reaching it, he lifted a fist and rapped his knuckles against the wood—firm, deliberate, carrying just enough weight to make his mood clear. The passive-aggressive edge wasn't lost on Itami, who sighed quietly beside him.

A brief pause. Then, Andrew's voice came from inside.

"Door's open."

Adam didn't hesitate. He pushed the door open and stepped inside, his sharp gaze immediately locking onto Andrew—who was seated on a stool beside the cot, arms crossed. His usual easygoing demeanor was still there, but there was a quiet tension beneath it.

But Adam's attention quickly shifted to the small figure lying on the bed.

A little girl.

She couldn't have been older than five, her tiny frame wrapped in a thin, tattered blanket. Her gray hair was messy and unkempt, and atop her head, two wolf-like ears twitched slightly in her unconscious state. Faint bruises marked her arms, and despite her stillness, there was an uneasy restlessness in the way her small hands clutched weakly at the blanket.

Beside her, tending to the girl with gentle precision, was Kurokawa. She barely glanced up, her focus entirely on the child as she carefully dabbed a damp cloth against her forehead. Her expression was tight, lips pressed into a thin line.

Adam exhaled sharply through his nose, his expression unreadable, though there was unmistakable weight behind his stare.

"Of course it's you," he muttered.

Andrew didn't look up right away. His fingers tapped lightly against his arm before he finally met Adam's gaze. "Figured you'd show up sooner or later."

Behind Adam, Itami shut the door with a sigh, his eyes flickering between the two before settling on the unconscious girl. His brows furrowed.

"Alright... someone want to explain before this turns into a standoff?"

Adam took a slow step forward, his boots barely making a sound against the wooden floor. He stared down at the unconscious girl, his face unreadable, but the weight in his eyes spoke volumes. The tension in the room was thick, yet Andrew remained seated, arms still crossed, his posture calm—too calm.

Itami ran a hand through his hair and let out a tired sigh. "Well, this is going to be a headache."

Adam ignored him. His voice was low, steady, but there was something simmering beneath the surface. "You planning on explaining, or am I supposed to guess?"

Andrew met his stare, unfazed. "Found her by the wayside while guiding the reinforcements," he said simply. "She was barely conscious, probably left for dead. So, I took her in."

Adam exhaled slowly, his expression tightening just a fraction.

"Alright," he said, his voice measured. His eyes flicked back to the girl, then to Andrew. "And what's your plan now?"

Andrew leaned back slightly, resting one elbow on the arm of the chair. "Make sure she doesn't die." His tone was casual, but there was an undercurrent of quiet resolve.

Adam let out a quiet chuckle, shaking his head as he crossed his arms. "You really are a softy, you know that?"

Andrew smirked slightly but didn't deny it.

Itami exhaled, rubbing his temple. "So, what? You planning to adopt her now?"

Andrew shot him a look. "I'm planning to make sure she doesn't end up back in the hands of some bastard who thinks she's property."

Adam's smirk faded slightly, his expression shifting into something more neutral—almost approving. He looked at the girl again, then back at Andrew, his stance relaxing. "Could've just left her," he said, his tone more thoughtful than accusatory.

Andrew shrugged. "Could've. Didn't."

Adam clicked his tongue. "Yeah, yeah... Like I said, softy." But there was no bite to it. If anything, there was the faintest hint of respect in his voice.

With a small sigh, Adam turned toward the door before glancing back at Andrew. "Alright. She stays."

Andrew let out an exaggerated sigh of relief. "Phew."

Adam's smirk returned, but there was mischief in his eyes as he added, "But... I'm not the CO, remember?" He turned his head toward Itami with a knowing look.

Itami blinked. "Wait, what?"

Adam motioned toward him with an almost lazy gesture. "It's your call, man."

Itami hesitated, suddenly feeling an immense amount of pressure—especially from Kurokawa, who had stopped tending to the girl just long enough to give him a pointed look.

The room was silent for a beat.

Itami swallowed, scratching the back of his head. "Uhm..." His eyes darted between the unconscious girl, Andrew's expectant gaze, and Kurokawa's... less patient one. His shoulders slumped in resignation.

"Fine. Yeah, she can stay."

Kurokawa let out a quiet hum of approval before returning to her work. Andrew gave a satisfied nod, while Adam clapped Itami on the shoulder with an amused grin.

"Good call, Lieutenant."

Itami let out a long sigh, rubbing his temples as if the stress of the situation had just doubled. "Alright, she stays. But that still leaves us with one problem..."

Adam raised an eyebrow. "The merchant."

Itami nodded. "Yeah. That bastard's not going to let this go. He clearly thinks he owns her, and I doubt he'll take 'no' for an answer." He crossed his arms. "So, what do we do about him?"

The room fell into a moment of quiet contemplation. Adam leaned against the doorframe, his gaze distant but thoughtful. Kurokawa remained focused on the girl, though it was clear she was listening. Andrew, however, was the first to break the silence.

"We could scare him off," Andrew suggested casually. "Give him a warning, make it clear that if he tries anything, it won't end well for him."

Adam hummed. "Might work. But guys like him usually don't back down unless they're forced to."

Itami frowned. "I'd rather not escalate things unless we have to."

Andrew smirked suddenly, leaning forward with an almost mischievous glint in his eye. "Then let's escalate it in a different way."

Adam gave him a skeptical look. "I'm almost afraid to ask."

Andrew's smirk widened. "We tattle."

Itami blinked. "...Tattle?"

Andrew nodded. "Yeah. We take this straight to Countess Myui."

Adam let out a short chuckle. "You serious?"

"Dead serious," Andrew replied. "I heard from some of the locals that Myui's father was against slavery. If he was still in charge, that merchant wouldn't even be operating here in the first place. She might be young, but she'll want to honor his stance if she has any sense."

Adam exhaled, shaking his head in amusement. "Tattling to the noble kid. Bold move."

Andrew shrugged. "Hey, if it means we don't have to shoot anyone, I say it's worth a shot."

Kurokawa finally spoke up, her tone neutral but approving. "If it keeps her safe, then I have no objections."

Itami glanced between them before sighing. "Alright. I guess we're going to pay a visit to the Countess."





Formal Family Castle, Italica

March 29, 2028 – 10:08 (29th Day of the Crescent Moon, 638)

Princess Pina reclined in her high-backed chair, finally allowing herself a moment of relief. The negotiations with the otherworlders had gone far better than expected, easing the ever-present tension that had weighed on her shoulders since their arrival.

Grey stood nearby, ever the vigilant knight, his expression as unreadable as stone.

"Your Highness, I must commend you on your handling of the negotiations," he said. "The otherworlders seem inclined to cooperate."

Pina let out a quiet sigh, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

"Thank you, Grey. I expected far harsher demands. We should count ourselves lucky."

Grey nodded but didn't share her smile. Instead, his brow furrowed slightly.

"Indeed. Perhaps too lucky. Their leniency is... unusual. We must remain cautious. Kindness can be a weapon just as much as steel."

By the window, Hamilton turned to face them, her expression a mixture of relief and lingering unease.

"Do you think they truly desire peace, Princess? Or is there another motive?"

Pina's smile faded as she considered the question.

"I believe they do. But that doesn't mean we can afford to be naïve. They've shown us their power, and I doubt they'll hesitate to use it if they feel slighted. We must tread carefully."

With that, she rose from her chair, smoothing the folds of her dress. Her movements, though graceful, carried a quiet determination.

"Enough discussion for now. We've done all we can today. I'm going for a walk."

Grey stepped forward. "Shall I accompany you, Your Highness?"

She shook her head. "No, Grey. Stay here and keep watch. Hamilton, would you care to join me?"

Hamilton nodded immediately. "Of course, Princess."

As they moved through the castle's grand halls, their conversation was interrupted by the faint murmur of voices ahead. Pina's eyes narrowed as she spotted Itami and Adam walking alongside Kaine, the head maid, toward Countess Myui's quarters.

Curiosity sparked in her chest.

"Let's follow them."

Hamilton hesitated but, after a moment, fell in step beside her.

They stopped just short of the door, watching as Kaine knocked gently before leading Itami and Adam inside.

Pina leaned slightly toward Hamilton. "I wonder what business they have with the Countess."

Hamilton shrugged. "Perhaps something to do with the negotiations?"

Before they could speculate further, Kaine's sharp gaze flicked toward them. The head maid stepped back out, closing the door behind her with a quiet click.

"Princess Pina. Lady Hamilton. Is there something you require?"

Caught off guard, Pina straightened her posture, adopting a regal air. Hamilton mimicked her, though with slightly less confidence.

Kaine's expression remained composed, though a hint of exasperation flickered in her eyes.

"Your Highness, Lady Hamilton, this is a private matter concerning Countess Myui and these gentlemen. I must ask for your understanding."

Pina exchanged a glance with Hamilton before returning her gaze to Kaine, her expression cool but firm.

"Kaine, we understand the need for privacy, but these are unusual times. Anything involving our guests from beyond the Gate concerns the Empire. We must be kept informed."

Kaine hesitated. Duty and social hierarchy waged war in her mind. After a moment, she exhaled softly.

"Very well, Your Highness. But please, be discreet."

She stepped aside, pushing open the door.

Inside, Countess Myui stood beside a modest table where Itami and Adam sat in discussion. The flickering candlelight cast long shadows across the room, emphasizing the tension that already thickened the air.

At fifteen, Myui carried herself with a maturity beyond her years. Though still young, she had shouldered the burden of leadership since her father's passing, and it showed in the quiet resolve in her eyes.

Her gaze briefly tightened upon seeing Pina and Hamilton, though she quickly masked it with practiced poise.

"Princess Pina. Lady Hamilton. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

Pina stepped forward, her tone polite yet probing.

"We noticed Itami and Adam visiting and were curious about their business here."

Myui hesitated, glancing toward the two men before speaking.

"This is a matter of some delicacy."

Adam took the opportunity to step forward, his expression measured.

"One of our men found a wounded demi-human girl on the road during the battle. He brought her to our makeshift infirmary at the Wandering Wyvern Inn, where we've been treating her."

Pina's brow arched. "I see. And the issue?"

Adam's jaw tensed slightly. "A merchant has come forward, claiming the girl is his property and demanding we return her."

Pina's expression darkened. She glanced at Myui before returning her gaze to Adam.

"Did he provide proof? Documentation? Witnesses?"

Adam shook his head. "No, Your Highness. He presented nothing—only his claim. But even if he had, it wouldn't matter. The girl was found wounded and abandoned. She deserves protection, not captivity."

Hamilton frowned, her voice carrying an ingrained certainty.

"I struggle to understand why you would extend such care to a demi-human slave."

The words hung heavy in the air.

Itami's expression hardened slightly, while Adam remained steadfast.

"Because," Adam said, his voice calm but unwavering, "in our world, all beings are treated with dignity, regardless of race or status. She is not just a slave—she is a person."

Pina's gaze cooled. "That may be your world's belief, but here, if she is the merchant's property, she must be returned. That is the law."

Myui straightened, her fingers tightening into fists at her sides.

"The Empire's laws may be clear, but Italica has its own governance. City laws can supersede imperial ones in certain circumstances. And here, we must consider the welfare of all who live within our borders—including demi-humans."

Pina's voice sharpened. "Slavery is the backbone of the Empire, Countess. You cannot simply disregard it."

Myui's eyes narrowed. "The so-called backbone of the Empire was written by a Senate too lazy and self-serving to consider the suffering it inflicts."

Pina's fists clenched at her sides. "Those laws are what hold our civilization together. To defy them is to invite chaos."

Myui's expression remained unwavering. "Call it what you will, but I will not turn a blind eye to suffering."

The room crackled with tension.

Pina stepped forward, her voice low. "You would defy the Empire for a mere demi-human?"

Myui's expression softened, but her resolve never wavered. "If that is what it takes to protect my people—yes."

Silence.

Then, with a sharp pivot, Pina stormed out, her boots echoing through the halls. Hamilton hurried after her, face pale with tension.

As the door slammed shut, Itami let out a slow exhale, shaking his head.

"Gotta admit, Adam... never thought I'd see a fifteen-year-old completely outmaneuver a nineteen-year-old in an argument."

Adam smirked. "Looks like we've got ourselves a firecracker of an ally."

Myui sighed, turning to Kaine. "Now, where were we?"