In a secluded corner of the Land of Death, the Death King’s subordinates stood assembled before a mountain that rose just a short distance from Isis’s castle.
"This spot will serve. Isis-sama has already granted her permission," Polaris announced.
"The Head-dono and I have finished recovering the ore and minerals from within," Sirius added, drawing a single sword from her waist. "Well then, I suppose it's time to begin."
"One blade will suffice," she whispered. With a single, fluid stroke, she cleaved the massive peak from its base. Before the mountain could even begin to fall, it dissolved into millions of fine fragments suspended in the air.
Without missing a beat, Rasal flipped open the lid of her Giant Coffin. A powerful vacuum surged forth, dragging the airborne ruins of the mountain into the depths of the casket with overwhelming force.
"Well, I suppose I’ll find some use for this in my research later. Rock materials always come in handy," Rasal remarked, eyeing the now-empty space while Iris stepped forward.
Iris conjured a sphere of pitch-black mana at her fingertip and let it drop toward the earth.
"Using annihilation magic on such a precise scale is exhausting," she remarked. "I have to specify the target and range so carefully to avoid an accident."
"It’s no wonder, given that your magic power is staggeringly massive, Head-dono," Polaris said. "Even a slight miscalculation would result in a catastrophe. Now then, for the finishing touch, I’ll weave a permanent barrier."
Iris’s magic vaporized the remaining debris, leaving behind only the rich soil. Polaris immediately set up a barrier to regulate the temperature and atmosphere.
"Will this do, Spica?"
"It’s perfect," Spica replied with a warm smile. "Blue Crystal Flowers are hardy, but they appreciate a gentle climate just like anyone else. Oh, the soil feels wonderful. The flowers will be lovely."
She knelt and placed a hand against the earth. In an instant, a sea of sapphire-colored Blue Crystal Flowers carpeted the ground, stretching out in a vibrant garden.
"There we go. Thank you all so much for the help!"
"It was nothing. We were all at a loose end anyway," Polaris said.
"It is a magnificent sight," Sirius agreed, sheathing her sword. "I have never seen so many Blue Crystal Flowers in bloom at once."
The subordinates had gravitated toward the project the moment they heard Spica’s plans. Though she hadn't officially requested their aid, their easy, natural cooperation spoke volumes about the bond they shared.
"Since we're finished, why don't we invite Isis-sama for tea?" Iris suggested. "It should be just about time for a mid-afternoon snack."
"An excellent idea," Rasal agreed. "I’m sure she would be delighted."
Everyone there had been drawn to the Land of Death by Isis’s gentle nature; the prospect of spending time with her was always a welcome one.
"I’m looking forward to it," Spica said. "I'll get started on the watering until she arrives."
"Kyu!" Vulpecula barked, trotting forward.
"Oh? You want to help too, Vul? You’re so reliable!"
The little fox skillfully used her ten tails to hoist several watering cans at once, as if to say, "Leave it to me!"
The subordinates divided the remaining tasks with practiced ease. While Iris and Rasal prepared the tea, Polaris and Sirius headed toward the castle's second storage room to retrieve a large white table that would complement the vibrant blue garden.
Soon, Isis sat at the outdoor table, smiling softly as the gentle climate of Polaris's barrier enveloped her. Iris set a steaming cup of tea before her.
"For you, Isis-sama."
"Thank you," Isis whispered, her eyes drifting across the azure field. "It’s... so beautiful. To think you all made this together. You are all... so wonderful."
She looked truly happy, taking in the transformation of the once-barren landscape of rock and ice.
"Vul helped as well," Spica added. "She’s quite the master of watering!"
"Is that so? Good job, Vul. You’re such a good girl."
Vulpecula let out a happy trill, basking in the praise. As the rest of the subordinates took their seats, the impromptu tea party officially began.
"Isis-sama, would you like to try this?" Iris asked. "It’s a new confection from the Hydra Kingdom."
"Thank you... It’s delicious."
The air was filled with lively chatter. As was their custom, Sirius and Rasal exchanged sharp glares across the table, but Isis only watched them with a look of profound contentment. These were more than just her subordinates; they were her family. Savoring the warmth of their company, she leaned back and enjoyed the afternoon.
Serious-senpai: "The Mutsuraboshi really are the perfect fit for Isis. They have this collective mindset where they always want to do things as a group rather than on their own."
???: "Exactly. The moment one of them thinks of something, everyone else starts shouting 'Me too! Me too!' ssu."