The meeting Flare had requested to greet Lilia was arranged promptly, and the two were now seated across from each other in the reception room.
I could sense Lilia’s intense anxiety, but it was outweighed by a palpable feeling of joy. According to Luna, Lilia was a fan of Flare’s, so having a good understanding of her idol beforehand might have been what gave her the composure she displayed despite it being their first meeting.
Once they finished their brief introductions, the atmosphere gradually relaxed into a more conversational tone.
"…And so, my subordinates will be in your care. I’ve cautioned them thoroughly, so I don’t believe they’ll cause you any trouble, Duchess Lilia. But if any issues arise, please don’t hesitate to contact me."
"I understand. Our Wyvern Service isn't the largest operation, so there may be some logistical inconveniences, but I look forward to working with you."
She wasn't panicking at all. As her nerves settled, Lilia actually seemed to be enjoying her conversation with Flare.
After a period of pleasant small talk, Lilia spoke up during a lull in the conversation, her voice tinged with hesitation.
"…U-Um, Lady Needsveld. If it isn't too much trouble…"
"Hmm?"
"Well, that is… could I possibly get your autograph?"
Lilia looked apologetic as she produced an autograph board. Flare responded with a gentle smile and accepted it.
"Certainly. Would you like me to include your name as well, Duchess Lilia?"
"Ah, yes, please!"
Lilia was practically beaming like a child, while Flare went about signing the board with practiced ease. Honestly, it was a little surprising.
Perhaps 'surprising' was the wrong word, but I’d always thought of Flare as the stoic, serious type. Seeing her so accustomed to giving out autographs caught me off guard.
Then again, Flare was one of the world-famous Six Kings' executives. Most people today, including the knights, had recognized her even in her human form. Since most executives were invited to various festivals and ceremonies aside from the decennial Hero Festival, they probably had plenty of opportunities to sign autographs.
I’d heard the only exceptions were the Phantasm King’s Ten Demons. With the exception of Pandora, none of them usually appeared in public, even during the Hero Festival. They were treated as the most enigmatic group among the Six Kings' subordinates.
While I was lost in thought, Flare finished her signature and returned the board. Lilia bowed repeatedly in gratitude.
They resumed their conversation until Flare spoke up as if suddenly recalling something.
"…Now that I think about it, Duchess Lilia, I heard you’re still in your twenties?"
"Eh? Ah, yes."
"I see. I’ve heard rumors of your prowess from time to time, but seeing you in person makes it clear. You are impressive—a truly refined warrior."
"I am honored by your praise."
"I didn't have much chance to observe you during the conflict in the God Realm, but your weapon is the greatsword, isn't it? Do you follow a specific school?"
What was this? I might have been imagining it, but Flare seemed a little restless. I could vaguely sense her thinking something like, 'I'd really like to fight her once.'
Still, the fact that she was keeping those urges in check made her a lot more manageable than someone like Megiddo.
"No, I don't follow a specific school. I learned the basics from a friend in the knights, so if I had to name it, I suppose it would be the Order of Knights style."
"I see. Your presence alone tells me how polished your skills are. I’d like to spar with you if the opportunity ever arises."
"I fear I’m not a worthy opponent for you, but yes, I would be honored if we ever get the chance."
Flare nodded with a satisfied smile at Lilia's answer, then spoke again.
"…The War King's subordinates would know more about this, but the Demon Realm has a vast history of martial arts, old and new. As a dragon, my options are limited, but I still find much value in studying—Hm?"
"Flare? Is something the matter?"
"That’s it—I remember now!"
"Huh?"
Flare, who had been chatting happily, suddenly went quiet, resting her chin on her hand in deep thought. When I asked her what was wrong, her eyes snapped open.
"My apologies. I didn't mean to shout."
"Don't worry about it. So, what did you remember?"
"Ah, I recalled the maid at my Comrade's home, Illness. I had a brief chance to speak with her earlier, and I couldn't shake the feeling that we had met somewhere before."
"With Illness?"
"Exactly. Even though she is clearly a Count-class powerhouse, I simply couldn't place her."
It was true that Illness was a Count-class demon, and she likely originated from the Demon Realm. It wasn't surprising that she might have crossed paths with Flare at some point.
However, I knew almost nothing about Illness’s past, and I was genuinely curious. Lilia seemed to feel the same, watching Flare with an intrigued expression as she waited for her to continue.
"So… did you remember where you met her?"
"Yes… though I never actually laid eyes on her. I only heard the rumors. This was back before the terms 'Six Kings' or 'Peerage-class' even existed in the Demon Realm. It’s the tale of a warrior… once known as the 'Savior'."