[UPDATE IN PROGRESS] Onmyou-Pocketville: Fallen Dusk

Chapter 9: Runaway Royal

Malorie, Tia, and the guild were now at the Omori Fountain, after they were forced to go back due to the spirit of a dog telling them that it was unsafe at the highlands.

"Gee, I sure am knackered..." Malorie said between tiresome breathing. "We've walked several kilometres already."

"What are kilometres?" Michi gave a befuddled expression. "Is it a measurement unit you use in your world? I think you mean tail-lengths."

"I guess it's close enough," replied Malorie.

"Hey, look at the fountain!" Mai jumped and pointed over to the Omori Fountain with a paw. It appeared to open, revealing the pedestal used for Friendship Ceremonies.

"Wait...what?" Kozue flew over to perch on the railing of the fountain.

Soon, everyone on the pavement, including Malorie, Tia, and the rest of the group, turned to see a glowing figure, which seemed like it had four legs and pointed ears. It then revealed itself to be a Shiba Inu-like yokai on the pedestal, who was wearing a collar similar to Queen Ami's, but with a red gemstone instead. Malorie and Tia saw the group of seven approach the dog. Each of the seven seemed to have expressions as if they'd recognise the dog before.

"Masahito?" barked Michi.

"It's Magic," replied the inugami. "I've come to do a very important deed; and to send a very important message." He glances over to Malorie. "Oh, who are you?"

Malorie gave a befuddled wave at the dog. "Oh, hello. I'm Malorie. I'm also new here."

Magic blinked. "Hi! You kind of remind me of Katie when she was younger."

"Who's Katie?" asked Malorie.

"My owner," said Magic. "She was pretty famous for saving Princess Ami from strife. She's now the owner of an animal sanctuary in the city that we live in."

"She's Queen Ami now," corrected Kozue. "She's been Queen for thirty annuals already."

One of Magic's ears flicked. "Really? Now she's gotta be very powerful now! Oh, wait, I almost forgot what I was here for!" Magic then began to explain his reason. "Ever since the rifts from several moons ago caused the neighbouring dimensions to be accessed easier, my owner Katie figured it is time to pass the Friendship Heart to a new person. I know, it sounds pretty sad, but Katie says it has to be done."

"Perhaps I know exactly the right one to become the new wielder of the millennia-old Shinnui Heart."

Everyone suddenly turned to see Queen Ami, who stepped outside the castle to see what was going on. She was so sneaky that only a few Onmyoujin saw her walk out into the terrace. Tia, Magic, the guild, as well as the rest of the Onmyoujin surrounding the fountain all bowed in respect.

"Your Majesty! We didn't see you there!" exclaimed Tia.

"I guess her heartstone's the reason why she decided to come outside," Lena glanced at Tia.

Magic's eyes widened in astonishment. "Ami...you sure have grown!"

Magic immediately recognised Ami, who was one of his old friends. Although Ami's physique appeared to be aging, she had clear and lively eyes, a feature she always had ever since she was in her youth.

Ami nodded. "Yes, I certainly have. I've grown very old already, now with a husband, three children and even six grandchildren! I also haven't met you in a while, Magic. It's so lovely to see you again."

"The same goes for you, Ma'am! I also have an important message from Katie!"

"Really? What did she say?" Ami asked, tilting her head in wonder.