Ali and Kite, Isao's older brothers, exchanged incredulous glances as they beheld their sibling Isao suddenly materialize in front the young commoner, her prior anonymity shattered by her heroic intervention. Their initial astonishment swiftly gave way to exasperation, twin facepalms a testament to their collective bewilderment at their sister's stealthy arrival. "Seriously, Isao? We didn't even notice you slip away." Ali chided, shaking his head in wonder. Beside him, Kite nodded in agreement, his lips twitching with amusement.
Isao's intervention also came as a surprise to Bartolomeo, who had been focused solely on dispatching the plucky commoner girl. The sudden appearance of another kid who matched Bartolomeo's skill with ease, threw him off balance once more.
As Bartolomeo struggled to regain his footing, Isao pressed her advantage, her movements swift and precise. "Leave her alone!" she warned, her tone firm and commanding. "You've already proven yourself unworthy of facing her in combat." Bartolomeo's face twisted in a snarl; his pride wounded further by the younger girl's audacity. "Mind your own business, girl! This doesn't concern you." Isao's response was a dismissive flick of her wrist, sending Bartolomeo's sword flying from his grasp. The blade clattered to the ground, useless now without its master. "Your arrogance is your downfall, Bartolomeo. You should learn to respect those you deem beneath you."
Lord Lavender's sons, Kite and Ali, watched the unfolding scene with growing unease. They had initially been taken aback by the brazenness of Bartolomeo's attempted abduction of their sister, but now, witnessing his reckless aggression against an innocent commoner, their outrage boiled over.
Without hesitation, Isao's brothers stepped forward, their own weapons drawn in unison. "Enough, Bartolomeo." Kite declared, his voice cold and authoritative. "Your conduct is an insult to your family's honor, not to mention the laws of this land." Ali nodded in agreement, his eyes narrowing as he positioned himself to flank their opponent. "You will apologize to the young woman, to our sister and make restitution for your actions. Failure to comply will lead to severe consequences."
Bartolomeo, still seething from his defeat and humiliation, sneered at the brothers. "You dare challenge me, and protect a commoner? I'll show you the true meaning of nobility!"
Before Bartolomeo could close the distance, a figure in a light blue dress appeared, rapier in hand. In a flash of speed, Princess Sylveria intercepted him, her blade slicing toward his chest with precision. Metal clashed with a resounding clang as her strike forced Bartolomeo back, slamming him into a nearby stone wall. As the dust settled, Sylveria’s sharp, light-blue eyes stayed fixed on Bartolomeo, her expression unreadable. Meanwhile, Isla and Isao exchanged knowing grins, recognizing the familiar presence of their dear friend from past lives. "Well, it seems the three of us are finally reunited." Isla said warmly, her smile filled with quiet joy.
