Days passed quickly. Hestia adapted fast.
She excelled in combat training, outmaneuvering many noble boys, and proved adept in beastkin battle magic—especially her signature flame-fangs spell.
She, Liselotte, and Piglette often studied together. While Astarotte helped her improve etiquette, Shuna quietly offered tomes on politics and warfare.
One afternoon, in the girls' private garden, Liselotte tugged on Hestia's sleeve.
"You know," she said, "Serenil was really worried when you joined. He thought you'd hate us."
Hestia looked up at the cherry blossom tree above them. "I thought I would too."
"But?"
"I was wrong," she said softly. "I didn't come here to make friends, but… now, I don't want to lose them."
Liselotte beamed. "You won't. That's what sisterhood means."
And in that moment, the fire-tempered princess of the Beastkin and the bubbly mermaid girl sealed their bond—not by magic, but by warmth.
From the high balcony above, Serenil watched the scene unfold with a rare, peaceful smile.
The storm was still ahead… but for now, his world had begun to harmonize.