The Absolute and those who can rule it

Chapter 27 [Home]

The conference room, usually a hub of serious discussion, now buzzes with a mix of confusion and awe. All eyes are fixed on Saria, who has shed her familiar white cat form to reveal a striking human appearance. Her long, vibrant purple twintails cascade down her back, framing bright violet eyes that sparkle with an otherworldly intelligence.

Saria, sensing the room's bewilderment, breaks the silence with a wry smile. "Yes, I'm still the same Saria you know. Except now," she pauses, flexing her fingers as if testing out her new form, "I can finally unleash my full powers in this world." She crosses her arms, a gesture of confidence tinged with a hint of defensiveness.

Kai, ever the laid-back presence, leans back in his chair, a bag of potato chips rustling in his hands. Between crunches, he raises an eyebrow and asks, "How'd you even manage to cross over, Saria? Last I checked, interdimensional travel wasn't exactly a walk in the park."

"Another Space Absolute, of course," Saria replies, her tone a mix of pride and nonchalance.

As if on cue, a sleek black cat materializes on Saria's shoulder, its emerald eyes scanning the room. It's Lucil, and her sudden appearance elicits a collective gasp from the group.

Lucil's voice, smooth and articulate, fills the room. "My brother possessed a space attribute ornament. He assisted Saria in traversing the barrier between worlds."

Rishia's eyes widen as realization dawns. "Wait... does that mean...?" Her voice trails off, hesitant to voice the implication.

Saria's expression softens, a touch of melancholy creeping into her eyes. She nods slowly. "I can't return to my world now." She leans back, her voice a mix of determination and resignation. "It's a steep price, but one I'm willing to pay to finally put an end to Belzad's reign of terror."

Turning to Keller, she adds with a hint of vulnerability, "Which is why I find myself in need of new accommodations."

Keller nods solemnly, understanding the weight of Saria's sacrifice. "Of course, we'll find you a suitable place." He exchanges a knowing glance with Chen, who nods in agreement.

Noarin, always quick to offer support, tilts her head thoughtfully. "You know, you could always stay with us, Saria. We've got plenty of room."

Saria's lips curl into a mischievous grin. "And where would I sleep? Your bed is hardly big enough for two, and I'm not particularly fond of futons. No offense," she adds with a wink. "Besides," her voice takes on a teasing lilt, "I wouldn't want to be a third wheel if you two are having a... moment."

"Oh, shut up," Noarin chuckles, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Man, I almost miss when I could just scoop you up in your cat form and toss you out of the room."

The room erupts in laughter, the tension from earlier dissipating like morning mist. As I look around at my friends, their faces alight with mirth, I'm reminded of Spica's final request in her letters: Don't forget to smile. The bittersweet memory tugs at my heart, even as I join in the laughter.

Saria, sensing the shift in mood, straightens her posture, her expression becoming more serious. "Now that Belzad is gone," she begins, her voice carrying a note of cautious optimism, "perhaps we've finally steered our world away from the brink of chaos and imbalance."

A man In military uniform raises his hand, his brow furrowed with concern. "What about Tempest? He's still out there, isn't he?"

Saria nods, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Without Belzad, Tempest might be reduced to a common criminal with magical powers. But make no mistake," her voice hardens, "he remains a significant threat to public safety. Apprehending him must be our priority."