As I return to the Water Queen's place, I realize that the atmosphere seems pretty weird. Both of the women (young and old) are awaiting near the entrance for my return. Their faces look somewhat grave with a hint of worry in it. They seem to be softly discussing.

[Hey ladies, what is happening?]

My disciple steps forward clearly happy about my return.

"Welcome back, master! I heard you were visiting the city. How was it?"

[Pretty entertaining. It's amazing to see how people adapt to living their daily lives with water magic. There is a definite charm to it. Anyway, you guys seem worried, what is happening?]

Are we about to get attacked by some sect? If that's the case, I'll have to show them not to mess with my new home.

"It's like this, master. We discussed it for a long time and decided to follow your plan to the letter. We'll try and find your dwarf friend so he can help us defend our sect even better. In the meantime, we will make sure we remain safe as we lie low."

[That's perfect! Very smart! So what's the issue?]

"It's like this master, the …"

"No! There is no need to bother him with such trivial matters. *Turns toward me* Do not worry! We will take care of it!" (Water Queen)

[Just tell me already, I insist.]

They both seem hesitant but after a while, my disciple acquiesces and delicately opens her small lips again as she softly utters…

"It's like this master. You both have a really bad reputation in this city. The populace is angry about destroying a whole squad of water mages, even though it was my fault! Then there is also the fact that your friend has been running around naked everywhere."

[*Sigh* I guess they just need time to adjust. Eventually, they are bound to understand how friendly I am. As for the Naked Emperor, he can be a bit intimidating, but I believe he has a good heart.]

"Of course, master! I was wondering if we should punish them. Some even went as far as proposing a Water Pledge! Can you believe it?!"

This is defiantly a foreign term to me. Is it similar to a contract?

[What is this supposed to be?]

"An ancient vow where warriors pledge to defend the City of Water against all potential invaders. It hasn't been used in a while since all our current powerhouses directly serve the Water Goddess!"

[That's it? Does it just require defending the City? Nothing else?]

"Yes, master! Ah, but it shouldn't be taken lightly! It is as powerfully binding as a slave contract! Once affected by it there is no way to get rid of it. Also since it's a contract with the Water Goddess directly it cannot be renounced upon without her consent!"

As binding as a slave contract? Pfft, what a joke! I clearly remember what happened in Eaglevein. These things are worthless in the face of divine energy.

Protecting the Water Goddess's City? For anyone else that would sound like servitude, but my case is a bit different. That Aqua girl is my subordinate already. For me defending her city is natural. Of course, I'll do it if I can.

I almost burst out laughing seeing their serious expression as she talks about this whole pledge thing. I take the most heroic tone I can while looking wisely toward the horizon.

[*Sigh* Do not worry. If all it takes for them to trust me is something as puny as a Water Pledge, then let it be. I am not afraid. I will be the first one on the front line and as long as I still stand on my feet no one shall ever dream of harming this city.]

I sneakily glance at them both. They are watching me as if I am some kind of glorious hero. This speech of mine was perfect! Sure, only the two of them saw it but I can always do it again later. My disciple is clearly impressed, her eyes sparkling.

"Master, this is so benevolent of you! I have never been so proud of being your disciple!"

"Indeed, young man. Your courage knows no bound. Spoken like a true warrior! People should be ashamed of ever doubting you! This resolve is proof of how wrong they all are about you! If only they could understand you *sigh*."

[Anyway, how does the water pledge work?]

"*In awe* Are you sure you want to proceed with this? I just need to call the other Head-mages and we can do it whenever. Ah, but you really don't need to. I'm sure they will all see your brilliance soon!"

[Why do complicated when we can do it easily. Let's do it right now!]

"Alright follow me, master!"

My disciple leads the way. Before long we are back at the water palace. I was expecting it to be gone but somehow it is still standing. The difference is that instead of being a closed building it now has a huge open area that is easily discernable from the pond's edge.

I walk up to it and a few minutes later there are already spectators congregating. Pretty much every member of the sect is assembling expectantly awaiting the show. I can see the happiness in their eyes. They are looking at me with huge smiles.

They clearly adore me. I guess learning that I was ready to put my life on the line for this sect was enough to change their opinions. After all, they probably thought I was trying to trick them before, perhaps even to infiltrate their sect.

With this show of faith, they are convinced of how genuine I am. For once they see me for who I truly am without any misconception. Before long all the Head-mages make their apparition too, ah except for the Water Princess for some reason. Was today's outing too much for the introvert? I can relate to that somehow.

They are all looking at me warmly. I can feel that they are extremely welcoming of me. The Anonymous water Head-mage approaches me steadily.

"I heard that you want to take the Water Pledge. Are you sure? It is not something that can be undone easily."

Her mouth says that but I can see something different in her eyes. She too is hoping for me to join them through this ceremony. In fact, I can feel how eager they all are. This feels great! It is time. I am ready. I give the most confident smile I can muster while looking at the crowd.

[Alright, shall we do this? The Water City shall prosper!]

Then come thundering cheers and mad clapping. Careful you guys or you'll potentially hurt your hands haha. The Anonymous mage addresses me once more.

"Alright, repeat after me…"