The feeling of the wind rushing past her face, the unconscious decision to remove her high heels in attempt to rush to the aid of the one person in her life that she cherished more than life itself, and the feeling of a large truck just inches from her back as she held onto that person for dear life.

  These were the last moments Saki could recall before a blinding light consumed them both.

  “Kouki!” Saki gasped, immediately getting up and looking frantically for the boy that she was desperately reaching for just moments ago. However, instead of finding the bright and sunny corner street they were in before, Saki instead found a dark, stone room only lit by carefully placed torches.

  “Kita so?” A soft voice caught Saki’s attention, causing the young woman to turn to see a girl in front of her.

  She looked beautiful, her skin was as smooth and clear as a porcelain doll. Her dress, which only complemented her complection, was as pale blue as the sky on the clearest day. It had gold edges and almost looked like robes a nun would wear it seemed to accentuate her form, and if it wasn’t for the obvious signs Saki would’ve sworn it was a second skin.

  “W-What?” Saki questioned, her composure erratic as she looked around for Kouki in a panic.

  This caused the girl to move aside revealing the unconscious boy behind her. Saki rushed towards Kouki in distress, checking him over for any injuries.

  “Kouki!” Saki exclaimed in a panic, lifting Kouki into her arms, holding him up and gently tapping his face to wake him. “Wake up, please…” begged Saki, doing her best to wake Kouki up as tears threatened to exit her eyes.

  “What did you do to us? Drugs, hypnosis? Did you set up that accident to capture Kouki?” Saki questioned, only receiving a confused look from the angelic-like woman as she backed away more as Saki’s emerald iris’s glew with a dangerous glint.

  After a moment of silence, a look of realization appeared on the porcelain girl’s face as her right hand began to glow with a strange golden yellow aura as she began to…chant? Comparing it to the outlandish words Saki heard before, these were simply incoherent as they flowed through her like a professional lyricist. As the aura around the girl's hand began to spread around both Saki and Kouki causing her to hold Kouki more protectively as she attempted to shield him. Saki tightly shut her eyes in preparation for the pain that would possibly come.

  “Miss, pardon me but can you understand me now?”

  This voice caused Saki to turn back.

  “I…I can understand her?”

  Saki, while not completely understanding what was happening, decided to play along for the time being. “Y-Yes, but why is it that I couldn’t before?” she asked, doing her best not to let Kouki become more of an easy target than he already was.

  “Ah, yes well just a moment ago, you and I couldn’t understand each other due to the difference in language but I remedied that with a bit of magic.” As she spoke, she began to give a curtsy to the confused Saki, radiating grace as she introduced herself. “I am Princess Celina, crowned princess of the Moonhaven Kingdom. It is very nice to meet you, hero.”

  Saki looked her over once again unbelieving, this caused her to notice more than a few armor clad individuals who surrounded them.

  “Moonhaven Kingdom? Magic? What exactly are you playing at, and how did you bring us here?” Saki questioned, doing her best not to move too hastily. Both due to the guards around them, and to not move Kouki too abruptly.

  The self-proclaimed princess bowed her head, a look of guilt on her face. “My apologies, what you experienced was a transportation spell. A very powerful one at that, and it had been done with one specific purpose in mind.” She explained, not lifting her head once as Saki took in the information.

  “What purpose…?” Saki asked hesitantly.

  Princess Celina sighed.

  “The spell I helped cast was a spell to summon what our world calls: ‘The Legendary Hero’. It’s meant to find one of pure heart and valor, one who has the strength of body and character to save our world from great disaster.” She explained, causing Saki to scowl incredulously.

  “Hero, as in singular? Then why are there two of us?” Saki asked, still not believing her story in the slightest.

  “That…I can’t explain in all honesty…”

  As Saki was about to reprimand her the princess raised a hand.

  “I know that is an unsatisfactory answer, but in the last 200 years since our kingdom's founding no other heroes have been summoned until you.” Celina seemed genuine in her explanation, which caused Saki to believe her if only for the moment. “Still, while I cannot explain how this occurred it is clear by the strength of your mana. You are the hero we were searching for.”

  “Mana? What do you mean?” Saki asked, confused.

  “Ngh…”

  The noise caught Saki’s attention immediately, looking down towards the now awakening boy in her arms. “Kouki! Are you okay?” Saki worriedly asked, doing her best to check over him while still keeping a cautious look around them.

  “Agh…Saki? What happened?” Kouki asked as he rubbed his head, doing his best to come out of his drowsiness.

  “I’m not sure, but try not to panic okay?” Saki requested, stroking his hair as he started to open his eyes.

  “What do you mean…? Wait, I remember we were leaving the studio…and then…” Kouki rose up quickly, looking around in a panic. “Where are we? Did we die? Are you ok-?”

  “You there, you are in the presence of her royal highness cease your prattling!” Yelled one of the guards, his armor being the only one different from the rest Saki assumed he was someone of importance.

  "That is enough, Captain. These two possess every right to act as they see fit in this matter." Celina reprimanded, causing the guard captain to bow in understanding.

  “Your highness, you must think of your station you-”

  “I will not repeat myself!” The princess stated, her eyes turning towards the guard with a scolding look. “As long as they are here, they are my honored guests and will be treated as such.”

  The guards around her bowed in submission, followed suit by their captain who offered a deeper bow. “Forgive me, I meant no disrespect.” The captain stated apologetically.

  “Then please restrain yourself, now…” Princess Celina walked towards the two summoned heroes, kneeling down to meet them both at eye level as Saki brought Kouki closer to her chest in defense.

  “Please forgive them, they are trained to defend me in every sense of the word so they can be a bit intimidating even towards family.”

  “I-It’s fine, still I would like to know what you mean by mana and what it has to do with us.” Saki stated, doing her best to keep her composure after the ordeal.

  “Yes of course, let us go to a more comfortable setting. I’m sure it’s uncomfortable being on the floor like that.” Celina stated as she stood, chuckling at the sight of the boy being coddled by the woman so protectively. “Though I will admit, it’s a very interesting relationship you have.” She chuckled.

  This statement caused a large blush to show on Kouki’s face, making him quickly sit up only to once again be pulled back into Saki’s arms, a slight blush on her face as she still maintained her suspicious stance.

  “Very well, but could we minimize our detail? After what I witnessed, I don’t feel safe with this group around and I can guarantee it will go a long way in trust if you do so.” Saki stated calculating, causing the princess to giggle in response.

  “Of course, guards please prepare my Solar and let the maids know to prepare some snacks and tea.” Celina commanded, causing the guards to move immediately after as they exited the large doorway leading to a rather extravagant hall.

  “Please follow me, we can wait in my tea room whilst they prepare.”

  This caused Saki to steadily rise to her feet, helping Kouki to his feet as well, this caused the Princess to look curiously at the sight.

  "Pray, might I inquire as to what affliction troubles the young boy?" Celina questioned, causing Saki pause as she considered what to say.

  “It’s fine to tell her.”

  “Huh?” Saki looked at Kouki in shock as he weakly stood up.

  “I’m not sure where we are, but it seems we need to build some kind of trust. So it’s fine.” Kouki stated, aware of the tension in the air as he leaned into Saki’s hold as if to comfort her.

  Saki grit her teeth in frustration, trying to think of any other way to form a higher negotiation ground. Something that could ensure their, or at least Kouki’s safety…

  “Maybe…”

  “Very well, I will tell you but I request that you ensure our safety regardless of how things turn out.” Saki stated bluntly, causing the princess to nod in understanding.

  “You have my word, as the princess of the Moonhaven Kingdom you will be safe regardless of the outcome.” Saki curtsied, causing some of the remaining guards to gasp in shock at the display.

  “...Very well.” Saki hesitated, judging that it was a good sign as they began to move towards the aforementioned Solar.

  If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

  “I see, it sounds like you’ve had a hard time keeping his health in check. We have amazing physicians here in the castle, perhaps they could assist as yours did.” Princess Celina offered, taking a sip of her tea.

  “I appreciate the offer, but I would like to have more information regarding this ‘Hero Summoning’ of yours. Why would you need heroes, and why would you think that random strangers who you summoned without consent would even want to help?” Saki questioned, as she took a sip of her own.

  Meanwhile, Kouki was munching away at a number of cookies. His face partially covered in crumbs, causing the tension created by Saki’s question to be lightened by some. Celina giggled at the sight, whilst Saki groaned, grabbing a nearby handkerchief.

  “Honestly, control yourself Kouki, this is serious.” Saki stated cleaning off the boy’s face as he apologetically smiled.

  “It’s fine, I for one enjoy this level of relaxed conversation. It’s refreshing, especially when compared to the stuffy conversation I’m used to.” Celina giggled, waving her hand in dismissal.

  “Not to mention, it’s surprising to me that you and I are the same age.”

  “Yes, it is a surprise to most who learn my age. While I am thankful, I would appreciate it if my questions were answered.” Saki insisted, after setting the handkerchief down.

  “Ah, yes of course. Well, as I said in the summoning room the ‘hero’ summoned is said to be one of great heart and mind that is to save our world from great disaster.” Celina stated, taking another sip of her tea as she continued.

  “The disaster in question is the demons within The Territory of Pyrefall. It has been rather calm until now, with more and more attacks to our borders near their territory. We believed that there was something powerful at play causing the demons to be this aggressive, so we sent in a small group of reconnaissance agents to infiltrate the territory…Only one returned…” Celina stated sadly, causing the room to go silent for a moment before she took a deep breath to continue.

  “From the report, they found that the old castle of the Demon Lord had looked active again. Thus confirming our greatest fears, that the Demon Lord has returned and taken control of the demons…We reached out, not just to our neighboring countries but to all countries to form an alliance to fight off and defeat the Demon Lord. We formed, we fought, but in the end we lost a number of soldiers. Among them were a number of brave nobles from each country, even my brother, the first prince went into the battle but failed to return home…” Tears started to flow from Celina’s eyes as she gripped tightly at her dress.

  “I apologize for this, we did everything we could but in the end we had to try the summoning. Our nation is in turmoil, alliances are on thin ice, and our people are scared of what’s to come.” Celina bowed her head deeply, her tears now flowing freely. “I beg you both, please help us…even if at least it’s to show the people that there still is hope for the future of our race.”

  The sight surprised Saki, despite her high status here she was the apparent princess of this country crying in front of two complete strangers and begging them to help her people. It was hard to say ‘no’ at the very least, and when she looked at Kouki she saw a level of sadness in his eyes as she looked at her. It was obvious that he didn’t know what to do, and in these moments he looked to her to make the right choice. She knew what she had to do, at least to ensure their safety.

  “Look, I understand your position and I sympathize with you and your peoples strife. However, what you’re asking us to do is put our lives on the line to either fight off and kill the Demon Lord, or to outwardly reveal ourselves as so-called ‘heros’ more than likely placing a target on our backs should word get back to the front lines. What assurances can you even provide that we will be safe?” Saki asked, clearly doing her best to sound sympathetic while also being clear-headed.

  Kouki leaned on Saki, saddened by the words but clearly understanding where she was coming from. The princess sniffed, and gently dabbed away the tears from her eyes as she smiled in understanding.

  “You’re right, in actuality we don’t have much room to stand on. I can’t guarantee anything, but I can vow only on my life that we will provide the best protection possible. Whether you help us on the battlefield or here for morale.” Celina stated, bowing once more as she allowed a moment for Saki to consider.

  “Damn…it’s really hard to say no here. Not only do we have no way of surviving here, but even if the princess were to help us we don’t know anything about this place. I’m still having enough trouble believing that this is legit, but her demeanor, her actions are all suggesting that it’s true. Ugh…why did this ‘hero’ summoning thing-”

  Saki gasped lightly, catching both Kouki’s and the princess’s attention.

  “Princess, first let me ask: is there a way to send us home if we decide not to do either?” Saki questioned.

  This caught the princess off guard, but she soon recovered and did her best to form a regal smile.

  “I apologize, but the hero that was summoned over 200 years ago was in fact my ancestor who as you can probably guess married and lived the rest of their life here…” The Princess stated honestly, causing Saki to sigh in exasperation.

  “I thought so…then I have a proposal based on the information I have. Would I be allowed to make my offer?” Saki stated, causing the princess to look up in hope as she nodded her head.

  “Please, feel free to speak your mind.”

  “Ahem, well since you stated earlier that it is uncommon for more than one hero to be summoned I want to offer you this: Announce me as your hero, and train me as you need but in return you will keep Kouki safe. You will provide anything and everything he needs, and should I fail, you will continue to do so till even your dying breath.” Saki offered, causing silence to take over for a moment.

  “Y-You’d be willing to help us?” Celina asked unbelievingly.

  “I understand why you did this, but since we can’t go home and even if we decline and you offer to help us find a place to live we know nothing of your culture or if there are other things to be wary of aside from these so-called Demons. So, as long as you meet these requirements then I will do what I can to assist.” Saki stated, standing up walking towards the princess holding out a hand.

  “Do we have an agreement, your highness?”

  The next second surprised Saki as Celina lunged into her arms, hugging her tightly and causing a slight pop to be heard from her back.

  “Of course! Thank you so much Lady Saki, and please feel free to address me as Celina.” Saki jumped for joy looking up at Saki simply due to the now noticeable size difference. She was a few inches shorter than Kouki, but not that Saki cared much for such things.

  “Is she really the same age as me?”

  “Please allow a moment for me to alert my father, we can have a meeting with him immediately.” The princess exclaimed excitedly, beginning to make her way out of the room.

  “Prince- I mean Celina, we don’t have anything proper to wear. Based on how some of the men we passed looked at me and Kouki, we seem to be wearing things that could be considered improper.” Saki noted, causing the princess to turn and relax as she understood the situation.

  “Ah, yes you are quite right. Then allow me to call upon my tailor to create some garments for both of you. Do you have anything in mind?” Celina asked, wondering what the heroes would like.

  “I would like to have a set of easy to move clothing, if I am to be the hero I want to present myself as such. So I will leave it to your tailor to create something fitting for that, as for Kouki please create something comfortable and breathable for him that doesn’t restrict his movement.” Saki detailed, doing her best to list the key needs.

  “I see, then follow me the tailor will need to measure you both and from there you must meet with my father.” Saki stated, a nearby maid opening the door to exit.

  “The clothes won’t be ready that quickly will they?” Saki asked, following the princess with Kouki following closely behind.

  “No, but worry not, my father is understanding and won’t mind it for this time. Especially if I ask, I will leave you with the tailor and head to my father to discuss your terms. I will send a maid for you once we are ready to see you.” Saki explained, causing Saki and Kouki to nod.

  “Your highness…your eyes need to be washed and makeup redone.” The maid opened the door, causing Celina to realize and wipe her eyes gently with a finger.

  “Ah, yes. We shall do so after leaving the heroes with the tailor.” Celina commanded, the maid bowing in response.

  A few minutes after arriving at the royal tailor, the princess explained who Saki and Kouki were and what they required in terms of clothing. All the while, Saki and Kouki looked at the man in wonderment. The royal tailor, whose name was Kauxar, was an older gentleman who had orange hair and green eyes but what really caught both of their attention were the cat ears and tail protruding from the man’s head and behind.

  “He’s…a Cat-person.” Kouki stated in shock.

  “Yes, do you have them in your world?” Kauxar asked, preparing his measuring tapes.

  “Ah, no we don’t but we do have stories that talk about such creatures. Though they were just fictional.” Saki explained, gaining a confused but agreeing nod.

  “Now shall we begin?” Kauxar offered, gesturing to a small pedestal surrounded by mirrors.

  “Y-Yes of course, Kouki will-”

  “You go first Saki.” Kouki interrupted, sitting down in one of the nearby chairs in front of the pedestal.

  “Kouki?” Saki questioned, only to be jousted away and placed onto the pedestal by Kauxar.

  “Now, let us begin.” Kauxar stated, starting to strip down the young lady. “Will the young sir be staying or leaving?”

  “Staying.”

  Kauxar looked surprised, neither of them hesitated for a second as more and more of Saki’s form was revealed. She didn’t hesitate, and Kouki wasn’t bothered a bit. Kauxar simply shrugged and did his duty as he began to perform the measurements.

  “Why did you do that?”

  It was less a question, but more a way to get Saki to talk. It was filled with an upset tone but his facial expression was that of numbness.

  “You know why, you heard her story and we both felt her words in our hearts.” Saki began, understanding his expression.

  “Yet you decided to take this on alone, leaving me here like some kind of defenseless puppy.” Kouki’s voice elevated in tone, but his face did not change.

  “You will be taken care of, that is all that matters.”

  “THAT'S NOT YOUR CHOICE TO MAKE!” Kouki yelled, standing up suddenly and the chair falling to the ground.

  “Lower your voice, you know your condition and we don’t know what other illness’s exist here and they do. The princess more than likely has great doctors on her payroll, doctors who can monitor your condition properly and heal you should anything major were to happen.” Saki explained bluntly, not hesitating a moment as Kauxar was still measuring.

  “...UGH, why are you always like this! You should know how important you are to me, there’s no way I would let you do this alone!” Kouki argued, stomping forward to face Saki with determination.

  “Kouki…”

  “NO! You may be calm in all the best situations, but when it comes to each other we are as equally emotional as anyone else.” Kouki stated, his voice lowering as he began to tremble in frustration.

  “You…don’t get to…do this to me.” Kouki fought, but tears began to drop to the floor as he bit his lip so hard he drew blood.

  Saki looked towards Kauxer, he nodded in understanding and she quickly hopped down from the pedestal and hugged Kouki with all the warmth and tenderness she could.

  “You’re right…I am being emotional and want nothing more than to leave you in capable hands while I face all the danger to protect you. Can you blame me though? I have always protected you, always done my best, and yet…here we are, in a situation where there really isn’t any other way to keep ourselves fully safe.” Saki began to tear up, lifting Kouki’s face to meet hers.

  “You have to understand too right, after everything you heard this is the most logical conclusion to keep one of us safe and you know that out of both of us…I am the strongest. The princess even said I had great magical power, so maybe if I’m careful I will be okay.” Saki placed a hand on Kouki’s teary face, rubbing away a tear.

  “I get that…I know that it’s right…BUT I WON’T ACCEPT IT!” Kouki exclaimed, slapping Saki’s hand away.

  “If you’re going to die, then I want to be right by your side! Even if you don’t like it, the safest place I’ll be isn’t with some country that only has a princess that seems kind to us but with you!”

  Saki furrowed her brow, frustrated. Not because of anger at Kouki, but at herself for considering what Kouki had to say.

  “Everything he says is based on emotion…I know that.”

  “I know that I should deny him, that I should smack him and tell him how much of an idiot he’s being…”

  “But…”

  “HE’S JUST SO DAMN CUTE WHEN HE LOOKS SO DETERMINED LIKE THAT!” Saki squee’d internally, her face blushing heavily as her happiness flew through the roof.

  KNOCK KNOCK

  This caused both to look towards the door, to see the blushing princess trying her best to not look at the both of them.

  “H-Hello, I’m…sorry to interrupt such an intimate moment but my father is ready for you.” Celina informed, still finding it hard to know where to look as her blush deepened.

  Both Kouki and Saki looked at each other.

  “Pfft, Haha!”

  They both began to laugh, both at the situation and their realization of each other's feelings.