image [https://urogyn.sakura.ne.jp/images/2024-10-09chess1.png]

57) SECOND ARDY RESCUE MEETING

The team gathered at the edge of the polo field, the sun casting long shadows as an air of determination hung heavy. Sophia stood at the center, her gaze sweeping over the group. Gustav sat quietly by her side, while Reinhart paced, his ears perked and alert. Today was pivotal—the second and final rescue strategy meeting for Ardy.

"Right, team," Elena began, her voice crisp with purpose. "Final checks. Let’s make sure everything’s in order." Everyone nodded, their expressions focused, even Reinhart sitting still, as if understanding the weight of the moment.

“First up, chess strategy,” Sophia said, turning to Alex.

Alex, ever calm, gave his report. "Sophia’s moves are razor-sharp. She’s clocking the fastest checkmates during practice. But the pressure in the real thing will be immense. Our challenge is ensuring she spots the right moves in the heat of battle."

Nyra, his arms crossed, added, "She’ll need backup. We can’t expect her to handle all the calculations on her own. Alex and I will be by her side, and Ardy’s input from the field will be key."

"Exactly," Sophia agreed, her voice steady. "We’ll need earpieces and AI support for on-the-spot coordination."

Suddenly, Reinhart let out a sharp bark. "Woof!"

Everyone froze, exchanging bewildered looks.

“Did... did Reinhart just speak?” Leo asked, wide-eyed.

“I heard it too,” Ophelia whispered, stunned.

Gustav’s voice broke through the confusion, calm as ever. "It’s the Mist Witch’s power, awakened within Lady Sophia. Communication with animals—especially dogs—is part of the magic described in Ardy’s notebook."

Alex grinned, unable to resist a joke. "Well then! Looks like we’ve got ourselves a new team member—Reinhart, the comms officer!"

The group chuckled, the tension easing just a little.

"Next up, rune decoding," Elena said, refocusing everyone.

Ophelia opened her leather-bound notebook. "We’ve cracked the runes in Ardy’s notes. Stone monuments across the forest mention the mist, and the ancient Mace Howe tomb speaks of a magic axe, covered in runes, likely the key to sealing the steam vents beneath the pyramids."

Bone stepped forward, muscles tense. "We’ve been practicing using replica axes to shut down the vent systems, modeled after the runes and designs Ophelia uncovered."

"Good work," Elena praised. "Physical endurance check?"

"Everyone can withstand the mist for at least ten minutes now, thanks to the pendants infused with the witch’s protection," Bone confirmed. "If Sophia can win the chess match quickly, we’ll have enough time to assemble the hovercraft and make our escape."

Alex’s eyes flickered with thought. "But we need to be strategic about how many moves Sophia takes. Nyra and I will work closely with her, analyzing the best options."

He lowered his voice as an idea struck. "Let’s give Sophia an AI-linked earpiece. The rest of us can use smart goggles to track her progress and offer real-time advice."

Nyra nodded eagerly. "Yes, and I’ll stay on the outskirts, where I can maintain clarity. I’ll monitor everything on my portable AI system and provide solutions to guide Sophia."

“Brilliant,” Sophia said, a determined smile playing on her lips. “But we’ll need specialized outfits—something that can withstand the mist, accommodate our tech, and still let us move freely."

Just then, the door creaked open, and Associate Professor Clarissa, Ardy’s sister, stepped inside. She held up a series of elaborate, steampunk-inspired outfits, her eyes gleaming with pride.

“I believe I’ve got just the thing,” Clarissa said, unveiling the costumes. "Full-body suits, designed with runic embroidery to protect against magical interference. The patterns are inspired by the Lewis Chessmen and incorporate Ardy’s research on protective runes."

Everyone gasped in awe as they examined the intricate designs. The outfits were both functional and beautiful, blending old-world magic with cutting-edge technology.

Sophia’s breath caught in her throat. “This… this is incredible. It’s everything we need.”

"And I’ve made one for Ardy as well," Clarissa added with a soft smile. "It’s in your pack, Sophia. You’ll know when the time is right."

Reinhart barked again, and Clarissa laughed softly. "Yes, yes, I’ve made outfits for you and Gustav too."

Gustav bowed his head slightly. "Thank you, Professor. We are now truly prepared."

With their gear in hand and plans in place, a charged excitement filled the air. The mission to rescue Ardy was about to begin, and they were more ready than they had ever been.

image [https://urogyn.sakura.ne.jp/images/2024-10-09chess1.png]

57) THE GREAT EARTHQUAKE

Sophia gasped, her eyes glued to her phone. "Oh no... not again."

Her roommate, Reinhart, peered over her shoulder, his brows furrowing. "What's wrong?"

Sophia’s voice trembled as she showed him the video. "Look... another massive earthquake and tsunami. It's devastating entire cities. What if... what if Ardy was right all along?"

Reinhart's face grew serious as he watched the footage, the destruction on the screen matching the gravity of the situation. "This is getting out of hand. We can’t ignore it anymore."

"Ardy's out there, trying to reseal it all by himself," Sophia said, her voice cracking as she fought back tears. "He’s... he’s truly remarkable."

Reinhart nodded, his jaw clenched. "We need to gather everyone. It’s time we had a serious talk."

Later that morning, the students of South College were busy cleaning up after a particularly violent tremor.

Alex sighed, surveying the debris scattered across the ruined reception room. "Man, this is bad..."

"I just hope the building’s still safe," Ophelia said, anxiety creeping into her voice.

"Careful, everyone!" Sophia called out, a broom in hand, as she brushed shards of glass aside. "There might be broken pieces around!"

Just then, their chess coach burst into the room, looking disheveled. "Thanks for helping out, everyone, but with the room like this, I'm afraid the inter-college tournament..."

Sophia’s eyes lit up with an idea. "Coach! Why don’t we have it outside? We could set up tables by the cafeteria—it’ll be like a proper chess arena, right under the open sky!"

The coach blinked, then a slow grin spread across his face. "You know, Sophia, that’s a brilliant idea! Let’s make it happen!"

The students erupted in cheers.

"That’s awesome!" "Best idea ever!"

As the excitement buzzed, the coach’s phone buzzed too. "It’s North College. They love the idea and want to proceed as planned."

Sophia beamed. "We won’t let you down, Coach! Let’s get to work, everyone!"

During a break, Sophia’s phone pinged with a news alert. Her smile faded as she watched the latest footage.

"No... not again..." she whispered.

Ophelia, sensing something was wrong, touched Sophia’s arm gently. "Sophia? What is it?"

Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

Sophia wordlessly handed her the phone, showing footage of another tsunami, this time tearing through South America.

Ophelia’s eyes widened. "If Ardy was right about the ancient seals breaking…"

Sophia nodded, her resolve hardening. "Gather everyone. We need to have that talk. Now."

In the partially-repaired reception room, Sophia stood before her friends, her heart heavy with the weight of the situation. Her voice wavered, but the determination in her eyes was unmistakable.

"The earthquakes, the tsunamis… if Ardy’s right about the ancient seals breaking, we might be the only ones who can stop this. But... we might never get any recognition for it. Even so, I... I want to help Ardy."

Alex was the first to speak up. "Count me in, Sof. This is bigger than just us."

"Me too!" Ophelia declared fiercely. "We can’t just stand by and do nothing."

One by one, their friends stepped forward:

Nyra: "It’s now or never."

Elena: "We’re with you, Sophia!"

Ronald: "I-I’ll help too!"

Luna: "Can’t let you have all the fun!"

Bone: "We’re a team. You’re not alone in this."

Sophia’s eyes filled with tears, overwhelmed by their support. "Everyone… thank you… truly…"

Alex grinned, his familiar mischief back. "Hey, no crying, Mist Witch! We’ve got your back."

Ophelia smiled warmly, placing a hand on Sophia’s shoulder. "Together, we can do this!"

Wiping her eyes, Sophia’s expression turned resolute. "You’re right. Together, we’ll protect those seals!"

As their resolve solidified, Sophia felt a warmth blooming in her heart. No matter the challenges ahead, she knew that with her friends by her side, they could face anything.

image [https://urogyn.sakura.ne.jp/images/2024-10-09chess1.png]

59) THE ULTIMATE ALLY

Alex raised his hand sharply, his voice cutting through the tension in the room. "Hold on, the most important thing right now is making sure the faculty board doesn't cancel the event. Our chess club advisor is just a lecturer – he can't attend the board meeting."

Ophelia nodded, her brows furrowed in thought. "You're right. If the board decides against it, the tournament’s finished."

A heavy silence fell over the group as everyone scrambled for a solution. Luna’s eyes suddenly lit up.

"I've got it! Let's turn the tournament into a charity event!"

Alex shot her a skeptical look. "A charity event?"

"Yeah!" Luna’s voice was bursting with excitement. "We'll use the tournament to raise donations for earthquake-affected areas. The final chess match can be the highlight – every donation gives the game even more purpose!"

Bone folded his arms, unconvinced. "But can we really pull that off?"

"We can!" Luna insisted, her grin infectious. "We have North College’s ace up our sleeve – Professor Adelbert von Ritterstein!"

The room collectively turned to Gustav, who blinked in confusion. "You... want me to give a speech to the faculty board?"

Alex smirked, shaking his head. "No, Gustav. You just need to stand there looking impressive. Someone else will speak."

"But who?" Ophelia asked, glancing around.

Sophia stepped forward, her voice steady. "I think... it has to be me."

Luna’s eyes widened. "Sophia’s going to North College?"

Clarissa, who had been listening quietly, stepped up. "I’ll go with her. I used to speak in place of my brother, but I don’t have the authority to lead. So our ‘Professor von Ritterstein’ will stand by, and Sophia and I will give the speech together."

Nyra clapped in appreciation. "Brilliant plan! Exactly what I’d expect from the woman who beat me in chess!"

"When’s the board meeting?" Luna asked.

"Tonight, Tuesday, at North College," Clarissa replied quickly. "If North agrees, South will follow."

"South's meeting is Wednesday," Alex added. "I’ll handle that one."

"But how are you going to get into the board meeting?" Luna asked.

Alex paused, caught off guard. "...I hadn’t thought that far ahead."

"We’ve got a day to figure it out," Sophia said calmly. "Let’s focus on North College for now."

Elena chuckled, crossing her arms with a grin. "In the end, we might just have to crash the meeting together, you know?"

Later that evening, as Sophia returned to her lodgings, she was greeted by her landlady’s warm smile. "There’s a gentleman waiting for you in the parlor, dear..."

"A gentleman...?" Sophia murmured, her curiosity piqued. She hurried to the room, only to have her face break into a bright smile when she saw him.

"Hello, my beloved granddaughter!" The familiar voice called out.

"Grandpa!" Sophia cried, rushing to embrace Wilhelm Weiss. For a moment, the weight of the day’s pressures melted away in the warmth of his arms.

"What perfect timing!" Sophia beamed. "Our ultimate ally has arrived!"

As she looked up at her grandfather, Sophia felt a glimmer of hope for the daunting challenges that lay ahead. With her friends and family by her side, the upcoming battle didn’t seem so impossible after all.

image [https://urogyn.sakura.ne.jp/images/2024-10-09chess1.png]

60) THE FACULTY BOARD MEETING

Sophia shared everything with her grandfather, Wilhelm Weiss—the earthquakes, Ardy’s disappearance in the Misty Forest, the chess tournament, and the immense danger ahead. As she spoke, Wilhelm listened with unwavering attention, his warm smile full of trust and love. When she finished, her eyes filled with both anxiety and hope as she waited for his response.

"I understand, Sophia," Wilhelm said, his voice calm but full of conviction. "You’ve done well to come this far. I’m proud of you. You’ve taken on an incredible responsibility, and of course, I’ll support you in any way I can."

Tears welled up in Sophia’s eyes as she whispered, “Grandpa…”

"Going into the Misty Forest is the right choice," he continued, holding her hands. "It’s your only chance to stop what’s happening. But promise me this—you’ll come back safely."

Wilhelm then handed her a small bundle. “Take these with you. They might prove useful when you need them.”

Sophia’s heart swelled with gratitude. "Thank you, Grandpa."

"And don’t worry about the board meetings at North and South College," Wilhelm added with a reassuring smile. "I’ll be there to support you."

----------------------------------------

Tuesday, 6 PM – North College Faculty Board Meeting

The air in the meeting room was thick with tension as the professors gathered. The chairman looked around gravely, addressing the room. “Any items on today’s agenda?”

"Yes," Professor Ritterstein—Gustav disguised as the professor—stood up. "It’s about next week’s final chess match in the inter-college tournament."

The chairman frowned. "Given the earthquake situation, shouldn’t we postpone the match?"

"Quite the opposite," Ritterstein replied smoothly. "This is precisely the time we must go ahead."

Whispers rippled through the room, but the chairman nodded. "You have someone to elaborate?"

At his signal, the door opened, and Sophia walked in with Professor Emeritus Wilhelm Weiss. The room shifted instantly—gasps filled the air as the professors recognized the famed scholar.

Weiss stepped forward, his voice steady and commanding. "Thank you for allowing us to speak." He turned toward Sophia. "Now, I’d like you to hear from one of our students—Sophia Winston-Weiss."

Sophia took a deep breath. All eyes were on her, but she spoke with clarity and determination.

"Thank you. We’ve all seen the devastation caused by the recent earthquakes—the destruction of entire cities in Asia, South America. It’s terrifying, and as students, we feel both helpless and scared. But we also feel something else—hope."

She paused, her words sinking in before continuing.

"That’s why we want to turn next week’s chess match into a charity event. We want to raise funds for those affected by the earthquakes and make this event a symbol of what students can do in the face of such disasters."

The room began to stir with murmurs of approval.

"We’ll hold the match outdoors, create a sustainable venue, and use the event to show the world what we, as students, can accomplish. We believe that’s what we need to do—right now."

By the time Sophia finished, the professors were visibly moved. Their earlier reservations faded, replaced by admiration for her boldness and vision.

The chairman stood and smiled broadly. "An inspiring speech, Miss Winston-Weiss. We approve the match and the charity event, unanimously."

As Sophia bowed, applause erupted around the room. Even the professors who had doubted her cause now looked upon her with pride and respect.

The next day at South College, Sophia delivered the same speech. But the atmosphere there was already in her favor—the board quickly gave their approval. Relieved, Sophia turned her focus back to what lay ahead: preparing for the chess match and rescuing Ardy from the dangers that awaited in the Misty Forest.

With her grandfather’s unwavering support and her friends beside her, Sophia felt a growing confidence. Together, they would face the trials ahead, not only for Ardy but for the world at large.

image [https://urogyn.sakura.ne.jp/images/2024-10-09chess1.png]

61) THEY CALL IT "THE IMMORTAL GAME

As the sun set, Grandfather sat in the chess club room, presenting us with a wooden box that exuded an antique scent. “This is a gift for you all,” he said softly, opening the box to reveal replicas of the legendary Lewis Chessmen—ancient Viking pieces, often tied to magic and mystery. Each piece had intricate carvings, and as he held up the king, Grandfather explained they weren’t just replicas.

“These pieces contain a mechanism I've created for your mission,” he said. “They will stabilize the seal’s power and prevent the steam from breaking free.” His voice was calm but held the weight of centuries of knowledge. As we gathered closer, he shared how these chess pieces, imbued with witch’s spells, could regulate the internal pressure beneath the earth—adjusting the flow, not just containing it.

Ophelia leaned forward, curiosity lighting her eyes. “So, we can’t just seal the steam—we need to control it?”

Grandfather nodded, his face serious. “Exactly. The automatic mechanism in these pieces will help you. Throw them into place, and they’ll create a membrane of witch’s blood to seal and manage the pressure. You’ll only have four minutes in the mist, but these pieces will allow you to complete the job in time.” He placed one in my hand, its ancient power almost tangible.

"And to keep track of time..." Grandfather pulled out a beautifully crafted pocket watch. “This isn’t just any watch,” he said, gently stroking its surface where runes of 'Protection' and 'Guidance' glowed faintly. “This will connect you all, no matter how lost in the mist you may feel. It will guide you back.”

I held the watch, feeling its weight, understanding the responsibility that came with it. “Thank you, Grandpa,” I whispered, touched by the depth of his care.

He smiled, placing another watch in my hand. “This one’s for Ardy. It will connect him to you, ensuring you both return safely from the Misty Forest.”

The gravity of the mission settled over us, but Grandfather’s quiet strength gave us hope. As he explained the significance of chess in sealing the ancient magic, Alex’s brow furrowed in thought. “Why chess?” he asked.

Grandfather’s eyes twinkled as he spoke of the witches using chess as a formula, a geometric symbol of wisdom, logic, and strategy to perform seals that would last for centuries. “The Immortal Game,” he called it—a game of perfect moves and balance, mirroring the witches’ magic to protect the world.

We all listened intently, knowing that recreating this score wouldn’t just mean victory in chess—it would mean saving the world. And with Grandfather’s guidance, we had the tools, the knowledge, and the hope to do just that.

As he placed his hand gently on my shoulder, Grandfather’s gaze softened. He was no longer just the wise guide—he was my loving Grandfather, quietly ensuring I had everything I needed for the journey ahead.