The Vice Captain of the Crimson Lions

The Star Ceremony

The group strolled through the lively festival grounds, colorful lanterns hanging overhead as the tantalizing aroma of roasted meats, sizzling skewers, and sweet pastries filled the air. Mynx, brimming with excitement from the earlier dance, eagerly tugged Aphi along through the bustling crowd. Her enthusiasm was infectious, drawing a chuckle from him despite his usual reserved demeanor. Xander trailed behind them with his arms crossed, a knowing smirk playing on his lips, while Balto silently padded beside him, his eyes darting between the pair. As they approached a busy food stand with smoke curling into the air and sizzling meat on display, Mynx spun around with a mischievous grin.

"This is it!"

Her grin widened when she noticed the person manning the stand—it was none other than Yami. He stood behind the counter, a stained apron loosely tied around his waist, flipping skewers with an expression of mild disinterest. She leaned casually against the counter, smirking

"Why hello to my favorite foreigner,"

Yami's brows shot up as he glanced at her, then immediately narrowed suspiciously.

"Eh? What are you doing here? And what's up with the get-up? And your voice?"

Mynx grinned, adjusting the oversized glasses perched on her nose and fluffing the ridiculous red wig,

"It's my disguise, Mallow-"

Yami snorted, folding his arms as he scrutinized her outfit.

"Who came up with that stupid name? The stick behind you?"

Mynx snorted, elbowing Aphi lightly,

"This stick is my partner in crime—Aphi,"

Aphi, caught off guard, gave an awkward bow,

"Sir,"

Yami raised an unimpressed eyebrow before grabbing a skewer and thrusting it toward Mynx.

"Better make sure he doesn't trip over his feet. Food's on the house-"

Mynx's eyes widened as she grabbed the meat,

"Eh? Yami-"

"Shut up. You got William and I drinks on the house for life,"

Mynx shrugged and smiled at him,

"Thanks!"

She turned to Aphi, handing him a skewer.

"See? Nothing to worry about!"

Yami's sharp gaze shifted to Aphi, his mana subtly darkening,

"Aphi,"

Aphi froze, his eyes wide,

"Yes, sir?"

Yami smirked at him, his voice low and laced with menace,

"If anything happens to her. I will be the first one of many to beat you up. Got it?"

Aphi quickly nodded,

"Y-Yes, sir,"

Mynx scowled, grabbing Aphi's hand and pulling him away,

"I am literally older than you, Yami!"

Yami smirked, leaning on the counter,

"Yeah, well, you don't look it,"

Mynx flipped him off as she dragged Aphi away. Xander and Balto, who had been quietly observing the exchange, were trying—and failing—to stifle their laughter.

"So, what do you think?"

Yami grunted,

"About?"

Balto laughed,