Meteor Red?
Both of them froze, and Gold Mask laughed. "That name isn't good. She's no meteor. She's already a fixed star now. Her radiance will last longer than any dynasty... Give me a glass too."
"No."
The Bartender turned his head away. "You stood right there and watched just now. I'll remember that. Once I become Holy Domain, I'll come knocking for pointers. Wash your neck clean and wait for me!"
"Yeah, yeah."
The Wolf-Costumed Youth fanned the flames from the side too. "I've always heard you were a model noble. I never thought you'd actually stand by and do nothing. I'm so disappointed."
"I did consider whether I should help, but I felt I'd spoil your fun, Miss." Gold Mask smiled behind his mask. "You were already prepared to counterattack just now, weren't you? You seem very good at handling situations like this."
The Bartender blinked. "No, of course not. Don't talk nonsense. I'm just a cute, weak little Water Arcanist."
The Wolf-Costumed Youth laughed. "So I was meddling? As expected of that person's friend. You really can't be underestimated."
"Although I really do have many things to thank Sonia for..."
The Bartender said gloomily, "But now, whenever I make any progress, everyone's first reaction is to pin the reason on the fact that she and I are friends. Isn't that a little..."
"True. On the path of sorcery, everyone can only rely on themselves. No matter how much outsiders help, it's at most icing on the cake. We really shouldn't casually erase your own efforts."
Gold Mask complained, "Sorry."
"Being misunderstood is the fate of a genius beautiful girl." The Bartender sighed. "I'm used to it."
"Pfft." The Wolf-Costumed Youth looked depressed. "Why do you seem even cuter than last year? Is there any chance that maybe