Sophie flopped onto her bed with a dramatic sigh. *"Comparison really is the thief of joy!"*
Earlier that day, Yakx had excitedly invited her to Blue Butterfly Manor for a feast. Though they'd only known each other for a month, Yakx had already pinpointed Sophie's weakness—her love for good food.
Sophie had sampled nearly every eatery in Casina City, burning through her generous salary (especially with Charles' bottomless stomach). Thankfully, Snowball ate like a bird, or she'd be bankrupt. Between delicious meals, steady pay, and spinning tales to her class, life was cozy—so cozy she'd almost forgotten about finding Mage Marifao.
But today, reality hit hard.
Blue Butterfly Manor was a dreamscape of elegance. The dining hall boasted a spread fit for an empress—no, *more* extravagant than any royal banquet Sophie had read about. *"Is this how nobles in this world live?"*
Forced to nibble daintily under crystal chandeliers, Sophie endured the most exhausting meal of her life. Even Count Castro's reassurance—*"Please, enjoy freely"*—couldn't loosen her up.
After lunch, Castro suggested Yakx show Charles his toy collection. Once the boys scampered off, the count revealed his true purpose.
The annual Junior Magic Tournament was approaching, but a critical mission prevented him from accompanying Yakx. He wanted Sophie to go instead.
Curious, Sophie asked about Yakx's mother—noticeably absent at dinner. The answer came as a bittersweet tale.
*"We met on the battlefield."* Castro's gaze grew distant. *"During border clashes with Nepeldon Kingdom, I faced Princess Daliya—stubborn, brilliant, and breathtaking. Though young, I wasn't above traps. Capturing her was easy."*
A week in confinement sparked unexpected love. When peace treaties were signed, their marriage became a symbol of unity—sealed with 100 rare amethysts from Chirelia.
*"This manor was my wedding gift to her. Six years together was more happiness than I deserved. She's in heaven now, but our hearts remain entwined."*
Sophie blinked back tears. *"What devotion... I hope he finds love again."*
Accepting the request, she toured the manor with Yakx—each opulent room deepening her awe. *"If a man gifted me this, I'd marry him in a heartbeat! Well, if I loved him too..."*
Returning to her modest dorm, Sophie groaned into her pillow. *"Where's my rich prince?!"*
After venting, she turned to Charles, dozing nearby. *"Hey! Any powerful spells Yakx could learn?"*
Charles jolted awake. *"Huh? Mom stopped ranting?"* Rubbing his head, he ventured, *"Did you say something?"*
*THWACK!* A flick to his forehead. *"I said—teach Yakx something impressive for the tournament! We're bringing home that trophy!"* (Never mind that Sophie only knew two beginner spells herself.)
*"Where's the tournament? Can I come?"* Charles bargained.
Sophie paused. *"...Good question."*
*"No me? No lessons!"* Charles smirked.
*"You little extortionist—!"* Cue mother-son wrestling (censored for young audiences).
Under threats *and* bribery (mostly food), Charles taught Yakx everything—though mastering spells proved harder for normal nine-year-olds.
---
Days later, the Orphiel family's lavish carriage rolled toward the capital, Lamipol. Joining them were Pierre and Eddie's entourages—apparently, all noble children competed. *"No wonder they followed Yakx like ducklings!"*
*"Look! A lake!"* Sophie pressed against the window as gem-like waters shimmered beneath the breeze, practically calling her name.
*"Stop the carriage!"* She tumbled out before guards could assist, then rallied the boys. *"Break time! Fishing lessons!"*
Yakx and Charles raced ahead, whooping. Even Pierre and Eddie's group overtook Sophie, leaving only embarrassed guards politely trailing her.
The children splashed into the shallows, ruining expensive clothes without care.
Back on shore, Sophie rigged makeshift fishing poles with needles and twigs. Hours passed. Not a single bite.
*"That's it!"* She hurled her pole. *"Charles—flush them out!"*
*"With pleasure!"* A fireball erupted underwater. *BOOM!*
Fish rained from the sky, belly-up.
After stuffing her Phoenix Bag (and stomachs), the journey resumed—with one unexpected outcome: Yakx finally mastered his first offensive spell.
**The Fireball of Vengeance.**
As Lamipol's spires appeared on the horizon, Sophie grinned.
**Game on.**