Chapter 28: The Proposal

We set out for the Guild to seek the Elite Magical Girls. Mizu and Mizuki were visibly nervous, unsure if they would even consider helping us with our plan to create a Magical Girl Fusion.

— “Damn it, we have to make them accept. If they don’t, we won’t stand a chance of defeating the Demon Queen and her army. I don’t know what we’ll do if we can’t convince them,” Mizuki said anxiously.

Akane answered firmly:
— “Relax, Mizuki. I’m sure they’ll help us. After all, they also want to kill the Demon Queen and her army.”

Mizu added gently to calm her:
— “Try to think of pleasant things, Mizuki. I’m certain they’ll help us create the possible Magical Girl Fusion.”

I then spoke up:
— “I doubt they’ll reject our proposal. I’m sure they’ll find it interesting enough to consider.”

The others agreed, and Mizuki finally calmed down, ready to stand with us before the Elite Magical Girls.

About fifteen minutes later, we arrived at the Guild and noticed that security had been tightened. The guards on duty stopped us and said:
— “Halt! I know who you are, but I still need to check you to make sure you’re not hidden demons.”

She was serious—after what had happened with Kori, it was obvious that the Guild had reinforced its security to prevent such a betrayal from happening again.

— “Alright, but what do we have to do to be let through?” I asked curiously.

The guards stared at us before replying:
— “You’ll each stand still and let us examine you. We’ll check whether there’s any malice in your hearts—to confirm you’re not demons.”

One by one, they examined us. I was afraid they might uncover my secret, but thankfully, they didn’t notice anything.

Afterward, the guards spoke more calmly:
— “Alright, you may pass. Please be careful—there’s more danger in the kingdom than ever since that traitorous witch betrayed us. Enjoy your stay at the Guild.”

We entered and went to the receptionist to ask about the Elite Magical Girls.

— “Excuse me,” Mizu began politely, “but do you know where we can find the ten Elite Magical Girls? We need to speak with them about a possible way to kill the Demon Queen and her army.”

Mizuki quickly added:
— “Could you tell us where they are? This is important—we believe we’ve found a possible way to finally defeat the Demon Queen and end the demons once and for all.”

I followed up, still a little breathless:
— “Please, it would mean so much to us if you could help.”

The receptionist stayed silent for a few seconds, then answered in a calm but resolute voice:
— “Very well. I’ll give you the information. They’re on the second floor. I’ll inform them that you wish to speak, but don’t waste their time. They’re busy nearly all day and only get rest at night. This has to be serious. If you really thought of a way to kill the Demon Queen and her demons, then this could be our chance to end their reign of terror. You may go now.”

We climbed the wooden staircase to the second floor. The wood was painted pink and in perfect condition, as if constantly renewed. Along the walls were portraits of girls with an inscription that read: Here rest the Magical Girls who gave their lives to save humanity from the demons. Honor their memory and use their history to grow stronger.

A wave of sadness—and admiration—washed over me. These girls had given everything for the world and humanity, knowing all would be lost otherwise. Their sacrifice for the greater good was truly admirable. They had my respect.

At the top, we found several doors. Unsure which to knock on, we hesitated until a young woman stepped out of one. She looked older than us, with white hair, blue eyes, fair skin, and pointed ears. She was stunning, appearing around eighteen years old. Approaching us, she said:
— “Ah, so you’ve arrived. Follow me—I’ll take you to present your idea about defeating the Demon Queen. It had better be interesting and useful. We don’t like wasting time. Don’t anger us, or you’ll be expelled from the Guild.”

Nervous but determined, we followed. Mizuki asked her name, and she replied:
— “I’m Bell Black. A pleasure to meet you.”

Akane smiled brightly at the sound of her name, clearly intrigued by her.

Bell led us to what seemed like the main chamber. Inside, nine other girls were seated on a massive sofa, sipping coffee. They looked at us, and the one who appeared to be their leader spoke:
— “So you’ve come. I’m curious—what idea do you have in mind to kill that damned demon witch who torments the people we swore to protect? I’ll only ask once: What is your plan to kill the Demon Queen?”

Akane, Mizuki, and Mizu froze in silence. I stepped forward and replied:
— “Have you ever considered something like a Magical Girl Fusion? If we could merge our powers, we might gain the strength needed to defeat the Demon Queen and her army.”

I hoped the idea intrigued them enough to help us.

The leader took a sip of her coffee, set her cup down, and smiled slightly.
— “You’re clever. I never imagined such a thing might be possible. The thought had never crossed my mind. Your idea isn’t bad at all… but the problem is, we don’t know how to create a Magical Girl Fusion.”

I answered quickly:
— “What if we designed a series of steps—or even an artifact—that would allow two people to merge when used? I don’t know if it would work, but we’d lose nothing by trying.”

She considered my words carefully before replying:
— “Child, you clearly have more talent than your friends. In fact, I believe this could work. Perhaps we really can create a fusion of Magical Girls. If that’s the case, we’ll help you. Maybe this will finally let us end all demons—especially that damned Queen who thinks she can do as she pleases without consequences. I despise her.”

Her voice hardened with hatred before she continued:
— “Very well. Let’s find a place to begin. Be aware—you’ll stay here for months, working alongside us to create this fusion. We’ll inform your parents. The Guild has rooms for you, and your contributions will cover your meals. All you’ll need to bring is clothing—that we don’t provide. Go home, collect what you need, and return here.”

At that moment, I knew we had succeeded. They had agreed to help us. The road ahead would be long and difficult, but in the end, I knew it would all be worth it.