A Tail’s Misfortune

Sora’s brow furrowed with a smile, her tail keeping a steady sway as Aiden opened the café door for her, gesturing for her to enter first. “So, is this date mostly about business or having fun before school hits us?”

“Why not both?” He chuckled, rainbow eyes inviting her to walk down the road and find out. “I understand you have reservations about the whole monsters living inside your realm business, so I’d like us to sit down and discuss all of your concerns while we eat. I want you to be comfortable with the idea, and to do that, I need to understand where you’re coming from.”

She shot him a playful scowl while stepping inside. “So, you opened with the monster restaurant to hook me, huh? Smart play. How did you know that would work?”

He chuckled, falling into step beside her. “Alva always used to say the best way to get a girl’s attention is to offer food, or was it sweets? Then again, she was a wolf.”

“And I’m a fox, so why not both?” Sora suggested, her green irises twinkling as the inviting aroma of the somewhat busy shop unfolded with the open doors.

“Good point. Both it is. Hmm. I guess I should have slaughtered some chickens,” Aiden mused, leading her to a cozy corner table and making Sora’s left eye crease.

“Chicken is good, but if you’re setting a trap for me, I’d suggest rabbit.”

“Thank you for the advice! I’ll keep it tucked away,” he laughed. “By the way, this café has an amazing chocolate cinnamon bun. Score?”

Sora already felt her mouth watering. “Score! Hmm?”

She paused as a male server handed Aiden some menus, showing it was a more upper-end sitdown café, and he gave her a judging stare that made her feel like there was something on her shirt. His question, though…

“What kind of cinnamon bun drink gal are you anyway?”

“Oh, easy,” Sora grinned, waving her hand to the side. “Milk, obviously. Two percent or whole?” she countered, taking a seat across from him at a less crowded side of the space as the server finished up with another table.

“Do you even have to ask? Whole, of course. Is there another choice when you’re already having gooey diabetes?” he laughed, making Sora snicker.

Her heart fluttered at his teasing tone, and she couldn't help but notice the subtle ways he flirted. The way his colorful eyes lingered a moment longer on her face, his smile soft and genuine. Yet, Mary was right. She didn’t need to push anything. It was better to enjoy it and let whatever happened happen.

“True. Pulling out all the stops, huh?” she asked, lifting an impressed copper eyebrow at the delicious-looking menu items with the chocolate cinnamon bun front and center. “Okay, you’ve bought yourself ten minutes, bud. This looks divine!”

He shifted his posture to sit diagonally, leaning his back against the wall and crossing his legs while scanning the menu. “I’m glad you approve. Actually, I talked to your mom about a lot of things earlier this week to get all the details… Your mother really is amazing,” he mumbled, looking a tad overwhelmed while remembering it.

“Is that right?” Sora hummed, directing her invisible purse to hang over the back of her chair while sifting to mirror his casual posture, leaning against the wall and tucking her tail under it to continue its gentle flicks. “I’d say she’s pretty amazing for breaking my laptop, requiring help to change TV channels, and almost burning down the hotel.”

“What?” Aiden laughed, shooting a skeptical sideward glance at her. “No way that’s your mom—your 2nd Generation Founder, second oldest vulpes alive, mother?”

Sora exaggerated an eye roll while recalling all the ridiculous things her mother was an absolute dunce at. “No, my mom’s a total klutz—full stop. She didn’t even know how to use the bathroom. Yeah, seriously!” she said at his dubious stare. “My dad has been swamped just trying to keep her alive. She’d seriously die in like three days from dehydration if we didn’t put her on a timer of when to drink water.”

Aiden ran his fingers through his hair with a silent laugh. “Wow. She can’t cook but she can explain to me the aspects of dimensional segregation and realm divisions within the space-time continuum like it’s as easy as drawing a stick figure. That’s wild.”

“Tell me about it,” Sora sighed but there was a smile on her lips. “No, but that’s also why I love her so much. She could have given herself all that knowledge; I’m sure it wouldn’t have been—oh, hi!”

The male stopped in front of them with a thoughtful look on his face, no doubt hearing parts of their conversation; at this point, Sora didn’t care what people heard since they’d dismiss them as talking about a game or movie.

“Hello. Sorry to interrupt but is there anything I can get you to drink?”

Aiden held up two fingers. “Water and a tall, cold glass of whole milk for the chocolate cinnamon bun—seriously, Sora, it’s like this big,” he chuckled, spreading his hands to cover a full plate.

“I can’t wait!” she chimed, getting more excited upon seeing one being brought out for another table, warm, liquidy, cream filling, and loaded with puffy, chocolate goodness. “I’ll get the same, and…are there refills on the milk?”

“Mhm! So, two waters, two whole milks, and two chocolate cinnamon buns?”

Aiden and her held up their thumbs. He took down the notes, accepted their menus, and went back to fulfill their order. Once gone, Aiden leaned back and glanced her way, catching her eye. So,” he began, leaning an elbow against the table, “tell me about your concerns. I want to hear everything.”

Sora took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his attention. “It’s just…I worry about the safety of bringing so many different entities into one space. My private realm is supposed to be a safe place for me to use my magic, and I don't want to compromise others if something goes wrong with Wendy or me using our powers. Heck, Kari or Eyia could have her own place to go wild and let loose without hurting anyone.

“Then there’s the issue about it being connected to Avalon, jeopardizing their security. It has a direct access point to my elevator, which can then lead to Daisy, Ron, Howie, Stephanie…everyone. There’s also the problem that the SCC Foundation may have spies mixed amongst them, and there could be problems between Avalon and us if they somehow get access.”

Aiden nodded, his expression not showing an ounce of worry. “I understand. Those are valid concerns, and things I brought up to your mother. So, what if we set up specific areas within your realm—unique biomes and zones locked away from your primary access point. It can have gateways to different areas for you and no one else—boundaries and rules to ensure everyone’s safety?”

Sora tilted her head, considering his suggestion. “If…my mom was the one who said it is possible. I guess that could work. But what about the potential conflicts between different species? How many private zones do I need to make? There are so many dynamics to manage.”

“We could create a governing council,” Aiden promptly suggested. “Representatives from each group address any issues that arise and have a small amount of authority in a specific area. As your mother described it, you have total control over your realm and it will respond to your desires.”

“Wait, what?!” Sora’s hidden ears went straight up, pausing a moment as the server delivered their water. Once he moved on, they lowered and a light growl rumbled in her throat. “She didn’t tell me anything about that.”

Aiden forced a smile. “She said you might be mad but your mom didn’t want you to do anything risky until she was certain Stephanie and the portal to Avalon situation was done. Also, it may be a tad taxing on you and doesn’t really help with your magical understanding.”

“Fair, I guess,” Sora mumbled. “So…you’re thinking of a council?”

“You providing a limited way for them to change their own environment will give you less work, and it would give everyone a voice and a stake in maintaining harmony. They need to share the place you give them, be it a realm or whole world. Personally, I’d say giving them a world to co-inhabit would be the best since it forces them to adapt and support one another. There are some exceptions, but I think allowing them to struggle a bit also gives them purpose.”

Sora’s eyes brightened at the idea. “That sounds promising. But it’s a lot of responsibility, even if we’re giving them a lot of autonomy. How can we make sure it works without blowing up?”

Aiden gave her a charming smile that said the answer was right in front of her. “By working together, Sora. Sure, you may have the resources, land, and power to accomplish it all, but you’re not alone in this. I’ll do most of the heavy lifting—at least socially. We can figure it out step by step.”

She felt a warm blush creep up her cheeks at his gaze, totally focused on her. “You really think I can help that many people? I…haven’t really done anything like this before.”

“I do,” Aiden said with a conviction that somehow strengthened her heart. “Like I said, I want to make this happen because it will save lives…lives I’ve grown to care about over these last three years of seeing monsters struggle to survive. Avalon is restrictive, and for good reason, given the SCC Foundation. Isolated to live out a peaceful life, I don’t think the Foundation will find much interest in that.”

Sora smiled, feeling a sense of relief and excitement at trying something new. “Alright. I’m sold, Bird Boy. Let’s give it a shot!”

“Wait, today?” he asked with a creased brow. “I thought this would be a long-term thing.”

“Naaa. I’ve got super magic to test out!” Sora grinned, feeling warm fuzzies rising up at seeing his own excitement building. She winked and put a finger to her lips. “My mom was probably right to wait because I’ve got a few things I do want to try out now.”

“There’s the fox I first met,” Aiden snickered, glancing across the room as their waiter came out of the back with a plate filled with gooey goodness and cool milky relief. “It looks like our sweets have arrived.”

Sora licked her lips, her mouth watering at just the sight of the plate-sized chocolate cinnamon bun. “Just in time!”

Their conversation flowed easily as they enjoyed their cinnamon buns and milk, the café’s cozy atmosphere providing the perfect backdrop for their plans. Sora couldn’t help but feel grateful for Aiden’s firm support and understanding.

He knew exactly how to keep his distance, how much to flirt, and when she needed to relax from the serious talk. How would that dynamic change once they got into school? What would school look like in the first place? Well, she’d find out soon enough.

After finishing their meal, Aiden paid the bill, impressing Sora since he did it without even asking, and knowing she could easily pay for it; he even gave a fifty dollar tip. She suspected it was more for the atmosphere and leaving them to talk than the service itself, which was also service, she supposed.

He stood and extended a hand to help her up. “Are you ready to meet Tammy? It’s me who has been pushing for this meeting, by the way. She doesn’t want to bother you.”

Why does he have to look at me like that? Sora thought, feeling her saliva thickening. Get a grip, Sora. He’s just a guy—a very charming, infuriating guy.

Sora’s lips twitched at the comment, accepting his warm hand as he pulled her up. “So you don’t mind bothering me?”

“Only when you’re lazing about doing nothing,” he said with an innocent grin that made Sora snort and roll her eyes. “As Alva used to say, a lazy tail is a fluffy one.”

“And is that supposed to make me not want to be lazy?” Sora questioned, adjusting her light turquoise sundress with its delicate lace trim and brushing back her loose copper hair.

“Hmm? Oh, no, that’s just something she used to say,” Aiden laughed. “Alva did a lot of lazing around her den, sleeping all day. Tiri made a game out of trying to bug her to get her out of bed. Kari liked it since the little wolf wasn’t tugging on her tail.”

Sora giggled at the image of a little cartoon wolf pup in her mother’s den, jumping on her, nibbling her mom’s ear, or trying to pull her by the tail. “She sounds like a handful… Not to bring up bad memories, but…”

Aiden hummed, his cheer not diminished in the slightest as he waved at a passing man who did the same. “Dead? I’d like to think not. To be honest, none of us know, and Eric’s initial plan in making his empire was to eventually find her.”

Her smile fading slightly at the more somber topic, they stepped out of the building, the warmth of the sun shining down on them. “Did you…ask my mom?”

The golden-haired boy guided her toward the beach, pulling out his phone to make a few texts that seemed important. “I did. I asked Stephanie, as well, but…they both told me it’s best not to ask about it right now. It’s not a yes or no, but it gives me hope.

“There’s nothing I can do about it currently, and I tend to focus more on what is right in front of me,” he said, glancing away from his phone to look down at her. “Such as a pretty fox girl, who reminds me of autumn.”

“My hair, huh?”

“Mmm.” He tilted his head to the side while giving her a studious look and made her gulp and tail pause. “A bit more to it than that, but I’ll let you puzzle that out.”

“Meanie!” Sora grunted, bumping shoulders with him and making him laugh.

As they strolled along the beach, Sora felt a light breeze ruffle her hair and tail, the sound of the waves and Miami crowds adding a serene background to their conversation. She glanced at the Firebird, who was now looking out at the ocean as they neared, his expression thoughtful.

“So, what did you and my mom really talk about?” Sora asked, genuinely curious about their conversation.

Aiden chuckled, putting his hands in his pockets. “Oh, a lot of things. She’s quite knowledgeable about realms and magic. We discussed the best ways to create stable environments within your realm and how to manage them. She also shared some insights about dimensional barriers and protections in case that came up.”

Sora raised an eyebrow. “Wow, sounds like she really gave you the full lecture… She hasn’t given me anything like that.”

“She did,” Aiden replied with a grin, “and that’s probably because you’re too busy giving her lectures on J-dramas, which she is very into, by the way,” he added at her pouty frown.

“Good. Plus, my dad and Noelia have been keeping her fur bristled and preoccupied.”

“Oh… Yeah,” he muttered, one hand leaving his pocket to rub the back of his neck. “I’m sure they have. Anyway…”

“Wait, no,” Sora gagged. “That’s not what I was implying!”

“Hmm? What were you implying?”

“Crap. Nothing!” she grumbled, ears falling back and cheeks turning red. “Nothing at all. My mom is just…a lot different than I thought she’d be. In a good way…sort of.”

Aiden’s pace slowed, a reflective smile lifting his lips as they reached the beach-side walkway, taking them north. “I’m sure I’d feel the same way if I met Alva again. Life’s complicated and hard… People get dealt so many bad hands. I just want to help lighten that load a little bit where I can.”

Sora could feel his heart, how big it was in his aura, reaching out, looking to support those who were crying out for help. It was so different from her; she was totally focused on her immediate family and friends while he saw a bigger picture. He helped put things into perspective and calm her nerves.

Aiden entrusted Kari to me—his sister—and now she’s doing better. He really can’t stop helping people and looking to make a difference… Is there a deeper reason for that?

They walked a bit further, the conversation shifting to more light-hearted topics. Aiden shared a funny story about Kari’s attempts at cooking, following a cookbook from Alva’s library. It had been as bad as her mother’s attempt. Well, maybe it hadn’t ended in that bad of a disaster, making Sora laugh. It did bring her back to the amber-eyed wolf, though.

“…Speaking of Kari, I invited her to the open house tomorrow.”

His eyes instantly lit up at the topic. “Really? She’s been avoiding me, I think, so I wasn’t sure what was happening. That makes me glad. I’ll try to keep my distance and not press her tomorrow. She’s the kind of wolf you have to leave alone until she’s ready to leave the cave, I guess you could say.”

“Your phrasing sometimes!” Sora snickered. “You make Kari look like this cute little puppy, ears pulled back, sniffing the air and looking around for her mom—oh, and I’m picturing winter snow, by the way.”

“Now you’re putting that image in my head! I love it, but don’t let her hear you,” he laughed. “Hmm. Yeah, let her find her own way was what Alva used to tell Eric… I wish he would have followed her desire.”

Sora’s brow furrowed, thinking about the school and everything she’d heard. “Now, I’m definitely not an Eric fan, but…maybe he was, in his own messed up way, by leaving her in Miami High?”

Aiden sighed and shook his head. “I don’t know. Maybe, but I wouldn’t call it that. He always was the controlling type and his trouble was always with her passive attitude as a Fenris Wolf.”

“No, I can’t do it,” Sora growled, ears falling flat. “No, I tried to see him as trying in his own way, and then I remember he forced Jenny to be her babysitter, which caused the whole shit storm. Once again, Eric sucks…”

“In some ways…absolutely,” Aiden mumbled. “He takes more after his father than he likes…and he hates that about himself. Anyway, so, what’s your favorite part of Miami so far?” Aiden asked, his tone casual yet interested.

Sora thought for a moment, looking around at the bustling beach and the city skyline in the distance. “I think it’s the diversity. There’s so much to see and do here, and everyone is so different. It’s like a melting pot of cultures and experiences, which I think helped me better grasp the whole monster diversity thing.”

Aiden nodded, agreeing. “That’s one of the things I love about it too. It’s a place where you can find just about anything and anyone… I hope to make something more livable for the monsters that are looking for that.”

Their conversation continued, filled with playful banter and subtle flirting. Sora felt her confidence growing with each exchange, enjoying the easy rapport they shared.

As they neared a more secluded part of the beach, Aiden pulled out his phone and dialed Tammy’s number. Sora watched as he spoke, noticing the slight change in his tone when addressing Tammy, more formal and respectful.

“Hi, Tammy. Are you ready to guide us to your settlement? I’ve got Sora with me and I know your girls have been waiting to meet her.”

Tammy’s voice came through the speaker, clear and professional. “Yes, Master Aiden. I’m ready whenever you are. And please, I will not feel slighted if Lady Sora cannot make it.”

“No, I think she can make it, Tammy. She’s not as busy as you seem to think,” he said, causing Sora to give him a light glare. “Great. We’ll meet you at the usual spot. Thank you, Tammy,” Aiden said before hanging up.

He turned to her, his expression serious yet reassuring. “I haven’t told them about the move yet. I want you to be the one to show them it is possible if you’re comfortable with that. Again, I understand if you’re not willing to do it. I don’t want to pressure you into it, despite how much I’m talking about it. I just want to remove any barriers I can but I know there are boundaries I shouldn’t cross.”

Boundaries, huh? And…what kind of other boundaries are you talking about, I wonder?

Sora was a little shocked by his trust in her but also felt less pressure, realizing how much effort Aiden put into mediating between everyone. It also made her a little sad, yet she did notice he talked with her differently than other girls. Hopefully she wasn’t reading too much into that.

“Wow, Aiden. You really do try to mediate between everyone, don’t you?” she whispered, brushing back her hair as glanced up at the bright blue sky. “All the stuff you do is so…mature compared to all my troubles.”

Aiden smiled warmly, now returning a bump to her shoulder that sent her off-balance and crying out a little. “I try my best, but don’t diminish what you’re doing. It’s important to me that everyone feels heard and respected, but there are things I can’t do on a personal level that you can. And I think the world of you for that, so don’t ever think less of yourself, Sora. You have a way of connecting with people that I can’t.”

Looking down at her feet in their slow walk, a blush touched Sora’s cheeks as she hid it with her shorter stature and position. “Yeah…we all have our talents, I suppose.”

They continued walking along the beach in silence for a time, Sora replaying the words in her head.

The afternoon sun cast its golden glow over the beach, where the gentle sound of waves provided a soothing background to the laughter and chatter of beachgoers. They wandered down the shoreline while scanning the beach, and her gaze fell upon a familiar figure near the water.

Sora was surprised to see Tammy standing there, wearing a bracelet that disguised her as an average human woman in her late thirties.

The dolphin woman stood out against the backdrop of the sea, exuding an air of effortless style and grace. She wore a trendy one-piece swimsuit in contrast to her all-business server attire, the kind that had become all the rage this season—it was probably her best one, given her personality.

The swimsuit was a vibrant shade of coral, accentuating Tammy's sun-kissed skin. It featured a high neck and a low back, with intricate cutouts along the sides that added a touch of modern flair to the classic design, showing off her hidden dorsal fin.

“Hello, Mistress Sora, Master Aiden,” Tammy greeted them with a respectful bow.

Sora returned the greeting with a friendly smile. “Hi, Tammy. It’s good to see you again. I was thinking I could create a bubble and water rope that you can use to drag us to the spot. It’ll make the trip easier for you, I hope.”

Tammy’s eyes widened. “That’s…very creative and thoughtful of you. Thank you, Mistress Sora. It is a bit of a ways off, below the shelf, so it will make things much easier.”

Sora nodded, focusing her desires. Her magic formed into a large air bubble around Aiden and her, the sand rising up to create sandstone seats for them. She then conjured a water rope, making the sphere lightweight and easy for Tammy to pull.

Aiden whistled as she finished and admired her work as she folded her dress under to sit, motioning for him to join her. “You…always amaze me, Sora.”

“And I hope to continue to do so! Now, whenever you’re ready, Tammy! Oh, and I added an invisibility charm so no need to worry about onlookers.”

Tammy smiled, visibly grateful. “Thank you, Mistress Sora. You truly are a blessing.”

Sora felt lighter than air from all the praise as they began their journey. Tammy pulled them smoothly over the surface of the water, her movements graceful and effortless. The sea breeze ruffled Sora’s hair, and she took a deep breath, savoring the salty tang in the air. The sun shimmered on the water, casting a sparkling path ahead of them.

Aiden settled into the sandstone seat next to her, stretching out his legs and leaning back with a contented sigh. “This is nice. I can’t remember the last time I just relaxed like this.”

Sora glanced over at him, a playful glint in her eyes as the waves bowed around them. “You mean you don’t spend all your time being serious and brooding? I find that hard to believe.”

Aiden chuckled, brushing a strand of golden hair away from his face. “I have my moments. But it’s not often I get to spend time with someone as interesting as you, Sora. You make helping people fun.”

Her heart fluttered at the compliment, and she felt a warmth spread through her chest. “Oh, so I’m interesting now? I thought I was just the girl with the realm solution.”

“You’re much more than that,” Aiden replied, his gaze steady and sincere as he leaned closer to smile at her. “You’ve got this incredible, how do I say it… This energy about you. It’s like you’re always one step away from discovering something amazing or new.”

Sora’s tail flicked with pleasure at his words, and she couldn’t help but grin. “You’re not too bad yourself, Blondie. I mean, I wouldn’t even call you brooding. I was just playing with you but all you do is think about everyone else… I kind of want to know what Aiden wants.”

Aiden’s smile became reflective as he sat back and folded his arms. “What I want? Huh… Well, there is another thing that you’ve made me think about. I’ll have to get back to you on that one.”

They both laughed, the sound mingling with the gentle lapping of the waves against their magical bubble. Tammy kept a steady pace, her eyes focused on the horizon, but Sora noticed the subtle smile on the woman’s lips when she shifted her head to glance back at them. It was as if Tammy found joy in witnessing their lighthearted banter. However, her thoughts were still on the Firebird.

He could have just blown it off and said something generic, like I want to help people! Instead…he took my question seriously and wanted to give me a sincere answer… He’s nothing like the high school boys I’ve talked to. I kind of feel like the immature one…

The journey was peaceful, the water’s rhythm almost hypnotic. Sora let her thoughts drift, enjoying the sense of freedom and possibility that the open sea offered. Aiden’s presence somehow helped her think more outside herself, and she liked it.

Aiden broke the comfortable silence, his voice thoughtful. “I’m still thinking about your question, so don’t think I’ve forgotten, but there’s something else that has been on my mind.”

“Mhm?” she pressed, shifted in her hard seat to give him her undivided attention.

“You know, I’ve been thinking about what you said earlier, about creating a council to manage the different species in your realm.”

Sora nodded, intrigued. “Yeah? What about it?”

“I think it’s a solid idea,” he continued, “but I also think it’s important to have someone who can mediate, someone who isn’t directly involved in the politics of it all.”

“You mean like a neutral party?” Sora asked, considering the suggestion.

“Exactly. And when you asked me what I want… I don’t want to be their babysitter, parent…or god. I want them to grow and have their own autonomy while also being safe. I want there to be someone who can help resolve disputes and keep the peace. It might help if that person is respected by everyone involved.”

“Like you?” she teased, though she could see the merit in his suggestion.

Aiden shrugged, a playful smile on his lips. “I’m just a humble Firebird trying to do my part. But seriously, I think it could work. Your mom mentioned you have control over your realm. You could create a space that, I don’t know, encourages cooperation.”

Sora mulled over his words, appreciating the thoughtfulness behind them. “I like that idea. Maybe they could even have regular meetings to discuss any issues that come up. It’d be like a mini-United Nations but for magical creatures.”

Aiden nodded, his expression brightening. “Exactly. And I don’t want you to have to be in the middle of all of that like a bogged down queen when you’re just trying to have a humble school life with friends, so… I don’t know. I’m trying to think of something.” Her lips curled mischievously, making his left eye narrow. “And what’s with that look?”

“I’ve got an idea,” she snickered. “Just let me cook because I’m better at it than my mom…much better!”

“Uh, maybe in the kitchen,” he agreed, rubbing his chin. “I guess I’ll wait to be impressed, not that it’s all that challenging for you to already do that.”

“Oh, shut up!” Sora giggled. “If you keep it up I’ll fly into space!”

“Wait, really?” he asked, flashing his teeth and straightening. “How much more until I get to see that? I’m game.”

Sora shook her head as they both laughed, and she even saw Tammy giggled. As they neared their destination, the dolphin woman slowed their pace, guiding them toward a hidden cove surrounded by rocky cliffs. The water shimmered with a magical glow that was likely crafted by Sela.

“We’re almost there. My daughters should have prepared the house,” Tammy announced, her voice carrying a hint of pride. “The others are eager to meet you, as well, Mistress Sora.”

Sora took a deep breath, her nerves tingling with a mix of excitement and anxiety. She looked at Aiden, who gave her an encouraging nod.

With Tammy’s guidance, they approached the hidden entrance, the water parting to reveal a path lined with vibrant coral and luminescent sea plants. Sora marveled at the beauty of it all, feeling a sense of awe at the hidden wonders that lay beneath the ocean’s surface. Yet, at the same time, it was kind of smaller than she’d expected.

As they passed through the entrance, Sora caught her first glimpse of the underwater community. The settlement was a bustling hive of activity, with various sea creatures and mythical beings going about their daily lives, some areas devoid of water. It was a busy, yet quite drab tapestry, cramped and what Sora would consider unsanitary.

Tammy led them to a central plaza, where a group of representatives awaited their arrival. Each one was unique, a blend of human and aquatic features that highlighted the diversity of the community, but not one gave off the ethereal beauty or image of a mermaid or merman.

Sora felt a sudden weight of responsibility as she stepped forward, weaving her magic through the water to be easily heard. Am I really going to do this? Her doubts were swept away as Aiden stepped down beside her offering a supportive smile.

“Welcome, Mistress Sora,” one of the representatives, a crab-like man elder, greeted. “We have heard much about you and what your influence has done to alleviate our tribulations. We are here to pledge ourselves to your peace.”

Sora smiled, her heart swelling. “Thank you for welcoming me but I’m not here to act as your boss or goddess, like Eric did. Actually…”

She glanced at Tammy, who looked somewhat confused as she glanced between the gathering population, whispering to one another about her appearance. “Initially, I came here to meet Tammy’s girls and get a feel for your culture, but Aiden and I have been talking and, well… I’d like to show you something.”

With those words, Sora felt the weight of her role settle comfortably on her shoulders; she wasn’t alone. She couldn’t help but steal a glance at Aiden, who gave her a reassuring smile. Turning back to the gathered community, Sora took a deep breath, her confidence bolstered by the support surrounding her.

“Alright,” she began, her voice steady and clear while spotting Tammy meet her two daughters, seemingly still teenagers since they hadn’t fully developed their human figure. “I want to show you something that could change everything for you. But before I do, I need you to trust me and trust Aiden. We’re here to help, not to take over.”

The representatives exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued by her words. The elder, with his crab-like features, nodded solemnly. “We trust you, Mistress Sora. You have already done so much for us—more than we can express. The merfolk have yet to attack us since you have taken over our area.”

Sora nodded, but wore a pained smile. “Thank you, but like I said, I’m not here to take over. I’m here to liberate you. Now, if you could all gather around, I’ll open a gateway to a place that I believe will be a new beginning for all of you.”

Tammy’s lips parted in disbelief as her daughters looked up at her with their big eyes.

“What does she mean by that, Mom?”

“What does lib…liberate mean?”

“Freedom, Sicily… It means freedom,” the mother whispered as murmurs swept the throng and goblins lined the waterless zone, looking down with interest.

With that, Sora closed her eyes, focusing her magic on creating a portal within the central plaza. She could feel the energy pulsing through her, drawing from the depths of her power to link with her desires. The air within her bubble and around her began to shimmer with a soft glow as the portal began to take shape, its surface reflecting the vibrant blues and greens of an ocean paradise beyond—40% of her total magic reserves drained away.

She forced herself to remain steady as the gathered crowd murmured in awe. The portal stabilized, revealing a breathtaking view of a vast, pristine ocean stretching out under a shimmering surface that cast a brilliant light over the open waterway. It was a realm untouched by human hands, a sanctuary waiting for those in need.

“Wow,” Aiden breathed beside her, his eyes wide with wonder. “I didn’t know what to expect…but not that.”

Sora smiled, a sense of accomplishment washing over . “I’m not done yet.”

He gave her a questioning look, admiration shining in his eyes. “You’re incredible, Sora.”

Her cheeks flushed with a warm blush at his praise. “Quit distracting me! Ahem. This is a new world—one near my own home sanctuary, and a place where you can live in harmony with nature, where you can thrive without fear of being discovered or attacked. It’s a new start for all of you…including anyone else who will follow the rules.”

Almost everyone present was shaking, faces showing their gratitude despite the water absorbing any tears shed. “This is more than we could have ever hoped for,” Tammy whispered nearby as her daughters rushed forward to enter the new paradise, laughing and curious, yet Sora saw a few scars on their bodies that spoke of hardship, likely from when their oldest sister and father were killed. “Thank you, Mistress Sora—Sidney, Sicily! Don’t wander off!”

“Please, just call me Sora,” she insisted with a grin as the mother swam after her children and more rushed in, followed by their parents. “This is your home now. Make it your own.”

As the representatives and their families began to step through the portal, Tammy eventually returned with her daughters under her arms, the girls looking pouty.

“Mistress Sora, I don’t know how to thank you for this gift,” she said, her voice choked with emotion. “You’ve given us…me hope for the future for my daughters.”

Sora waved at the girls as they were gently patted forward by their mother’s tail to enter the air bubble, a soft smile on her lips. “I’m just glad I could help. Take good care of your mother and new home, alright? I’m thinking about starting a little restaurant that she can work at and people from my new school can come to during lunch.”

The girls nodded eagerly, their eyes sparkling with excitement. Tammy placed a gentle hand on their shoulders. “I know there is a lot you still wish to discuss with us as a community, and this home is not only ours. Still, we can never repay you for this kindness, Sora. Thank you.”

With that, Tammy and her daughters joined the others, stepping through the portal to their new sanctuary. Sora watched as the community disappeared into the vibrant realm to explore, a sense of fulfillment settling in her chest.

“You did it,” Aiden said, coming to stand beside her. “You really did it. Is this…one of those planets orbiting in the sky?”

“Mhm! I plan on doing more editing later, but that is for later!” Sora let out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding, a wide smile spreading across her face. “You helped me realize what this could be and what my powers can be used for. Actually, this is probably mostly my mother’s doing since she gave me this power to begin with. I have no clue how I did any of it. The realm just…responded. I should thank her.”

He chuckled and looked up at the goblins, now diving into the water using breathing devices to check out the place, as well. “See? You’re a natural at this. And it wasn’t your mother who made that desire happen… It was you. So take the credit. And…to be honest, Sora, can I answer your previous question?”

Sora blinked and looked up at him, eye narrowing with a small smirk. “My question about what you want?”

“Mhm.” He breathed out a long stream of air that felt like it carried with it the density of a planet, hands in his pockets and looking up at the thousands upon thousands of water-based monsters continuing to enter the cave from smaller, branching areas upon hearing the news. “My wish was to feel free to figure out what I want…and you granted that wish.”

Sora’s ears drew back as he looked down at her with the most satisfied, pure look of relief she thought she’d ever felt in her chest, his aura pure as snow. “Kari, Eric…all the monsters who have been counting on me… I feel like a freed bird, and it’s all thanks to you. Thank you.”

The moment seemed to stretch, Sora’s heart thumping as he sheepishly chuckled and glanced off to the side, rubbing the back of his neck. “On another note, I was kind of hoping—”

Their moment was interrupted by a surge of familiar, freezing wind that chilled the water and made many of the sea people retreat—Eyia appeared beside them.

Sora’s rising, anxious ears drooped as the atmosphere broke, Eyia’s expression curious as she surveyed the portal and the empty plaza. “I sensed a great surge of magic. What have you done, Sister? It certainly looks grand from below on the primary planet.”

Sora glanced at Aiden, who gave her a forced smile, and she sighed—the real magic was gone. “I opened a gateway to a planet in my realm for the community here. It’s a safe place where they can live in peace.”

Eyia’s eyes widened in surprise, a true smile gracing her lips yet there was something off about her aura that snagged Sora’s attention. “That is a noble deed, Sora. I should not be surprised by your generosity and wisdom.”

“Eh, thanks, Eyia,” Sora said. “It’ll be open for a while… Is everything okay?”

The Valkyrie hesitated, a flicker of unease crossing her usually calm features. “I am well, Sister. Merely contemplating…matters that have arisen.”

Sora studied her friend, sensing the tension beneath her words and refocusing her mind and emotions. Something isn’t right. She didn’t just fly across space, slip through a dimensional wall, and pop up beside me for no reason. She’s struggling. It’s not like Eyia to be so evasive.

“You know,” Sora said, giving a look at Aiden, “if something’s bothering you, I’m here for you.”

Aiden nodded, picking up on her visual hint. “Of course. Sora and I just finished things up. I’m sure you’ve wanted some time with your sister.”

Eyia’s gaze softened, a rare vulnerability peeking through her stoic facade. “I have, actually. Thank you, both of you. In my past, I faced dangers with a blade and resolve, yet things are now so different.”

Sora tilted her head as she tried to test the waters. “And here, we face it with cinnamon buns and milk while battling wits!” she giggled. “Both have their merits.”

A confused smile lifted the Valkyrie’s lips. “Your ways are…perplexing, and Kari tries to confuse me like Jin. Hmm. There is much to consider in the coming…battles that I am not familiar with. Tomorrow may present…challenges I had not anticipated.”

“Tomorrow,” Sora whispered, realizing what was weighing on her chest. “You mean when we see Jin again?”

Eyia’s expression tightened momentarily before she nodded, swallowing a lump in her throat. “Indeed. It is possible at the open house. It is not merely the reunion but what it may signify for our future…as friends.”

Aiden placed a reassuring hand on Sora’s shoulder. “I’ll handle things here. Right now, you two should spend some time together. I know Sora loves shopping.”

“What?! Who told you that if you haven’t talked to Kari recently?” Sora balked, getting a secretive smile from the flirty boy.

“I’ll leave that juicy topic for our next discussion. Have fun.”

Sora shot him a light glare as he burst into flames and vanished, likely teleporting inside her realm to talk to the elders. “You didn’t even let me say goodbye… Loser,” she mumbled with a small smile. “I’ll see you tomorrow… Anyway, I think I have a way to get us back home,” she said, motioning for the confused blonde to join her through the portal. “Inside here, I’m basically on God Mode.”