Fun Girls Party 1: Princess Mia Burns With a Sense of Mission
Following the royal castle balls conclusion, Mia and her friends shifted to Rafinas room at the inn for an exclusive girls-only after-party. Upon their arrival, they seated themselves at a dinner table adorned with a tempting pot of steaming cream stew. Within the rich liquid floated substantial chunks of bread, and perfectly boiled sweet potatoes imparted a golden-yellow hue and a faintly sweet fragrance to the stew. Mia found herself captivated by the sensory experience. As she spooned a mouthful, the sweet potato on her tongue unraveled into pure deliciousness, leaving behind a luscious sugary flavor and a fruity aroma that harmonized with the stews creamy texture.
Exhaling quick, steamy breaths, Mia explored the stew in search of something specific until she spotted it. Its body was mostly concealed by the stew, with only a small portion poking above the surface. Resembling seaweed but not a marine vegetable, Mia wondered aloud, Is this the legendary mushroom, sambapilz?
The server confirmed, Yes, it is said that those who indulge in this mushroom experience their tongues dancing with delight due to its exquisite flavor. They are more easily found around here in Sunkland.
Mia exclaimed, How wonderful!
Without delay, she scooped a portion into her mouth. Its slender, pliable consistency made it jiggle, imparting a distinctive sensation as if it were dancing on her tongue. A spontaneous giggle escaped her. Upon biting into it, a lavish mushroom essence spilled forth, creating a magical flavor that seemed to distill all the delectable essences of Mother Nature into that single bite. Paired with the stew, it crafted an indescribably delightful experience.
Mmmmmmmmm Its so good she expressed, savoring every element, from the stew-soaked bread to the tender sunshine carrots, finding deep satisfaction in every aspect of the dish.
Contemplating the prospect of Esmeralda marrying Prince Echard, she envisioned stronger ties to Sunkland and the potential for occasional gifts of these exquisite mushrooms. Yet, it wasnt just the mushrooms; the entire stew was a masterpiece of culinary art.
After indulging in the hearty late-night stew, Mia began to feel the embrace of drowsiness. It was only natural to seek a restful sleep after a satisfying meal, and Mia, embodying the essence of humanity, fully embraced this inclination.
Hnnngh Im not really up for making the trip back to Count Lamprons, she murmured, stifling a yawn.
This prompted Rafinas interest for some reason. The Holy Lady then took a deep breath and regarded the room with the utmost seriousness.
I completely agree. Its hardly a good idea for young ladies to head out when its already so late. How about you all stay here for the night?
Huh? Is thatokay? asked Mia, unsuccessfully attempting to mask her drowsiness.
Of course. This is an inn, and they have plenty of rooms. Besides, there are Serpents out there, so its definitely safest to stay here, Rafina insisted, her fists balled in a persuasive manner.
Fwaaaah Thatsa good point. I guess Ill take you up on your offer Rina? Bel? Youre okay with that, I assume?
So, it was decided that Mia and her friends would spend the night with Rafina in the inn. Assuming theyd all fit in one room, Mias four-girl groupcomposed of her, Bel, Citrina, and Anneproceeded to rentabsolutely nothing! They stayed right where they were! Why? Because it was time for a five-girl pajama party!
Soon, the girls were fully immersed in sleepover mode. Having changed into pajamas, all provided by Rafina, they huddled on the two beds in her room, ready to talk the night away.
The idea of an all-pajamas look had been Rafinas brainchild.
Once were in pajamas, theres no telling whos a noble and whos a commoner, right?
With this statement, she effectively extended an invitation to Anne, allowing each one of them to gather on the beds of sisterhood.
Mia, initially ready to crash out at a moments notice, found that with so many young maidens gathered after witnessing a heart-stopping duel, sleep was all but impossible. Rest wouldnt come until theyd exhausted every romantic topic they could think of.
Prince Sion was so cool back there! Bel declared, opening the conversation about her idols performance.
Tee hee, you sure are crazy about Prince Sion, arent you, Bel? Citrina said, giggling and playfully dismissive.
Bel nodded firmly, the joke either flying over her or sliding off her. Of course I am! I mean, hes just too cool! Dont you think so, Rina?
Mia observed the girls with droopy eyes as they carried on their conversation. Despite the charged atmosphere, sleep still weighed heavily on her. That is, until
What about you Moth? Miss Anne? Is there anyone that youre crazy about?
Bel went for the jugular. Mia immediately perked up, her drowsiness disappearing in an instant.
Although Mia had sought Annes love advice numerous times, it only now occurred to her that she had never asked about Annes own love interests. With intense curiosity, she turned to her faithful maid, who replied, No. I wont marry because I plan to stay at miladys side and serve her for as long as I live. Oh, assuming, umyoure okay with that, of course
Anne turned nervously to Mia, and their eyes met.
If Im okay with that? Mia frowned. Why would I not be? Youve been nothing but helpful all these years. In fact, I fully intend to keep you as my maid-in-waiting even after youre married. Perhaps, when I have children, it might be more fitting for you to serve as my wet nurse. Regardless, the key point is that even with a husband, theres no need for you to quit your job.
Mia, however, felt a certain discomfort with engaging in displays of affection while Anne was present. The thought of her flirting with her boyfriend while her loyal maid remained single made her feel guilty. Just as enjoying food together was ideal, Mia believed that love was best experienced simultaneously.
Milady Tears of gratitude welled up in Annes eyes.
But, you know, Mia continued, if the issue is that youre too busy for romance, then it falls on me to find you a suitable partner. To do that, Ill need to know your preferences. So go ahead; tell me your taste in men.
After a round of excited girl-chattering, the topic shifted again.
By the way, Miss Rafina, what kind of person are you into?
Mia wasnt sure who posed the question, but its content demanded her full attention. She even sat up a little straighter. After all, discovering what the Holy Lady sought in a man intrigued Mia, who hadnt mustered the courage to ask the question herself.
She mentally saluted the nameless daredevil who had the guts to ask Miss Rafina, and then turned her attention to Rafina.
What kind of person am I into? Hm Rafina touched a finger to her cheek and tilted her head. Idont think Im into any specific type.
Huh? But what about Prince Sion? asked Bel, astonished that someone could be immune to Sions charms. Hes so dreamy! And Keithwoods really cool too!
Unperturbed and with no regard for propriety, Bel persisted. Her memories of the Empress Prelate nightmare had likely faded.
Hmm Theyre both marvelous individuals, thats for certain, but Rafina smiled. Not exactly the kind of person I find attractive.
With that, she dropped the blade of rejection on the pair of grade-A Sunkland bachelors. Mia shuddered a little, involuntarily recalling moments from the previous timeline when she had seen that expression. Rafina truly had the ability to deliver a lethal blow with her smile.
Seriously? Huuuuh. What kind of person do you find attractive then? Bel puffed out her cheeks indignantly, persistently dissatisfied with the lukewarm response her personal best candidates had received.
Hmmm, good question Rafina paused for a moment before conceding in a bashful mumble, If I had to choose, I guess itd besomeone who could carry me in their arms like a bride.
The Holy Lady had seemingly lost her mind. Mia stared at Rafina in disbelief. She quickly took a sip of her drink, confirming it didnt contain any alcohol. She then stared at Rafina again, taking another sip just to be sure, performing a literal double take.
Shesnot drunk, right?
Rafina appeared perfectly normal. Mia shot a sideward glance at Citrina, who sneakily sniffed Rafinas drink before comparing it with her own. Citrina nodded, confirming it was just juice. Alcohol wasnt the culprit.
Buta bridal carry? Thats justtoo out there. Its so surrealNot that bridal carries arent done, of course. Plenty of people perform it. The issue is how nondescript it is regarding a potential love interest. Rafinas response is so vague; it offers absolutely no concrete picture of the actual person.
Mia suddenly felt a sense of looming crisis. She quickly scanned the room before whispering to Bel, By the way, Beldid the Empress Prelate version of Rafina ever marry?
Bel gave her a baffled look. I cant imagine anyone having such a death wish.
Right, of course Not that Im surprised Oh, but maybe General Dion! Someone like him can probably handle it!
Mia couldnt believe Bel had that thought. Nevertheless, she acknowledged the potential in her granddaughters offbeat suggestion. After recomposing herself, Mia took another look at Rafina.
Now that I think about it Miss Rafina seems like the type whos going to have a lot of trouble finding a husband. Being the daughter of Duke Belluga, its highly likely that her father will bring her a suitable groom in due time. Its similarly likely that she wouldnt outright refuse such an arrangement. However considering her fathers the type to have a portrait of her drawn every year
The duke displayed an unmistakable excessive fondness for Rafina. While there was nothing inherently wrong with a father doting on his beloved daughter, ordering a new portrait of her every year and then selling those portraits to neighboring kingdoms seemed to be pushing the boundaries. It was akin to climbing onto a roof and shouting, My daughter is the cutest-schmoochest little girl in the world! to the whole town, a gesture that, in Mias opinion, was simply too much. Unfortunately, this was a regular occurrence for Duke Belluga.
Mia speculated that Duke Belluga would likely get along well with her own father. Knowing her fathers nature, if Rafina expressed even the slightest grievance about a potential groom, he wouldnt push her into an arranged marriage. While the dukes actions were a well-intentioned gesture, it complicated the process of finding a suitable partner for Rafina. She would likely go through a series of imperfect candidates, each failed attempt leaving a scar on her psyche until the Empress Prelate was born.
Feeling a sense of duty, Mia realized she had a responsibility as a friend and a seasoned expert in romance. She needed to use her experience to find and introduce the perfect man to Rafina, ensuring she would remain her friendly, non-prelate self. It was essential to keep Rafinas desires satisfied, particularly her romantic ones, but Mia wouldnt mind having a companion in the world of F.A.T.
Miss Rafina, you and I are in a position that will eventually require us to produce heirs. It is something we need to do to keep our kingdom prosperous and our people happy. When it comes to the type of men you prefer, it might be wise to think in more specific terms.
Hmm I suppose you do have a point.
Mias suggestion prompted Rafina to adopt a more serious expression.
In that case Rafina began, a thoughtful hand on her cheek, Someone I can respect, perhaps?
Respect
Yes. Someone selfless, who wont hesitate to act for the good of others. Someone kind to children and the elderly alike, and who has compassion for the weak but will firmly oppose oppression by powerful people. He doesnt have to be physically strong, so long as he stands up to tyranny. Someone who fights quietly but tenaciously Im pretty accommodating, so as long as hes got those qualities, then I dont really care much about the rest.
Mmhm, mmhm. Okay, I see?
As she compiled the laundry list of qualities, the image of a particular individual flashed across her mind. Confronted with the cold, uncaring cruelty of the world, this man had undoubtedly fought against itquietly and tenaciously. He tirelessly worked to protect underprivileged children, prioritizing their needs over his own despite the challenging conditions of his surroundings. Selfless, acting for the greater good, and displaying boundless compassion for the vulnerable, Mias thoughts turned to the priest in the Newmoon District.
While he was undeniably older than herconsiderably so, in factas a member of the Central Orthodox Church, Mia deemed him a viable candidate. To confirm, she decided to pose a few more questions.
By the way, what do you think about muscles? she asked.
Huh? M-Muscles?
Rafina furrowed her brow, perplexed by the sudden query. Recognizing the faux pas, Mia quickly waved her hands.
Ugh, what was I thinking? Rubys the only one who gets excited when she sees big, muscular men. For most girls, their romantic preferences dont include muscle mass!
Clearing her throat, Mia started afresh.
Well, not just muscles, but more likestature? You know, how tall they are and how big they look. The face is important too. Also, how good they are at swordsmanship or academics And what their rank is
Personally, I have no preferences regarding any of those qualities.
What about age then?
In terms of public image, it would be problematic if he was too old, but for my part, I dont particularly care.
Mia thought about the priests visage.
Hmm I wouldnt call him too old. Maybe this might just work?
So long as we share the same faith, and his love for me is true, then Im happy to marry whoever asks for my hand.
Wonderful! The priest of that church loves Miss Rafina to death! I think Ive found the perfect candi
Oh, actually, I have one more condition, said Rafina with a clap of her hands. And this one is very important.
Oh? One more condition? asked Mia, encouraging her to continue.
With the most serious expression yet, Rafina said, Yes. They cant own a portrait of me.
Ah. Well. Thatmakes sense.
So much for the priest. Mia promptly erased him from her mental list of potential candidates.