The tsundere archetype is common across many stories, and these characters share a predictable weakness: they're quick to explode when provoked. Target that trait, and they'll easily follow your lead.

For example, a single taunt:

"No way, no way, Claire Rouge, you're not too scared to accept my duel challenge, are you?"

Rinslet stood with arms crossed, deliberately positioned on a higher step, her expression one of mock surprise as she looked down at Claire. The provocation set Claire ablaze, her fiery red hair practically floating without wind.

"Shocking, isn't it? The supposedly great Claire Rouge doesn't even have the guts to accept my duel."

"Who says I don't dare?!"

Fury clouded Claire's judgment. She pointed at Rinslet, shouting back.

"I accept your duel! Let's go to the Elemental Realm right now and fight!"

"Hey, Claire!" Kamito tried to intervene from the side. In the span of one class, Claire had somehow convinced him. Though he hadn't agreed to be her contracted spirit, he'd at least consented to be her teammate. After all, Claire's talent and abilities as an elementalist were exceptional. Who wouldn't want such a skilled teammate?

But talent aside, she needed to understand her opponent's strength! This was a supreme dragon spirit. Forget everything else, how was she supposed to fight that? Was she planning to tickle it with her whip?

"Very well, Claire. You've got some courage to accept my challenge. In one hour, we'll meet in the Elemental Realm. I'll allow you to bring your teammate."

Rinslet glanced at Kamito.

"And don't say I'm unfair. I'm giving you an hour to gather your team. Bring as many people as you want."

This was a deliberate hint for Claire to include Kamito. Beyond that, it didn't matter if Claire brought others, given her social circle, no one else would likely join her.

"Hmph, just wait until you're begging for mercy!"

Claire knew she couldn't beat Rinslet, but she'd never admit defeat verbally.

"I'll be looking forward to your performance."

Rinslet flicked her hair with flair and turned to leave, leaving Claire grinding her teeth and Kamito rubbing his forehead in exasperation.

"Master Altair, I did it!"

Back at Altair's side, Rinslet rushed to him, beaming with pride, looking up at him as if seeking praise.

"Well done, Rinslet. I only gave you a simple suggestion, and you knew exactly what to do. Truly my one and only contractor."

Altair praised her warmly, seizing the chance to stroke her golden hair, never missing an opportunity to boost her affection. Rinslet tilted her head happily under his touch.

"It was all your idea, Master Altair. Without you, I wouldn't have known how to convince Claire."

"Not quite. With how well you know her, I'm sure you'd have figured it out even without my suggestion. You're the genius Rinslet, after all. Not just anyone catches my eye."

"Hmph, you're right, Master Altair. I am the genius Rinslet."

Buoyed by his compliments, Rinslet stood proudly, hands on hips, chest puffed out.

"Altair."

Seeing Altair praise Rinslet, Est tugged at his clothes.

"What's up, Est?" Altair looked down at her, curious.

"Est wants Altair's praise too. Est is the strongest sword spirit, Altair's only contracted spirit."

"Of course, of course."

Is she jealous?

Altair reached out with his other hand, gently caressing Est's smooth, jade-like cheek.

"Est is my only contracted spirit and the strongest sword spirit. You're the best, Est."

"Mhm."

Praised by Altair, Est squinted happily.

He couldn't help but feel like he was looking after two kids. By appearance, both girls were indeed young, while Altair, with his youthful, sword-like face and tall frame, seemed far more mature. Patting their heads and cheeks, he looked every bit the guardian of two children.

Carol, the maid, watched Altair pamper Rinslet and Est, then leaned in.

"Um, should I do that too?"

No, you clumsy maid, you don't need to.

"An hour should be enough for Claire and Kamito to prepare. Let's head to the Elemental Realm. Before Claire's ready, I want to train you a bit."

Altair withdrew his hands.

"My power is too great to manifest as an Elemental Waffe, so I can only assist you in battle as a spirit. But you can use Fenrir's Waffe power, so I'll teach you to wield it."

"Fenrir's power?" Rinslet tilted her head, puzzled.

"But, Master Altair, I'm already very familiar with Fenrir's power. I've been contracted with him since I was a child. I know his abilities inside out."

"No, Rinslet. What you've mastered is Fenrir's surface-level power. His true, greatest strength, you haven't tapped into yet."

"Huh? Fenrir's true power?"

Rinslet summoned Fenrir, and the white wolf, adorned with icy crystals, appeared beside her. Tongue lolling out, it looked like a goofy husky.

Did Fenrir have some hidden power beyond ice?

Rinslet gazed at him, her eyes filled with curiosity.

"Rinslet, you know Fenrir has spatial abilities in addition to his ice powers."

"You mean the subspace in Fenrir's stomach, Master Altair? I know about that. I store lots of things there, luggage, clothes, travel essentials."

Rinslet was well aware of this, often marveling at how convenient Fenrir's subspace was.

"Have you ever considered, Rinslet, that Fenrir's subspace can be used for attacks?"

"Attacks?"

Indeed, a formidable spatial attack, known as Divine Might!

***

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