"Eloping might not be a bad idea then." Aila said. "We can just hide there and write letters to dad about me and get his blessing directly before things go crazy back home."

"How would they know I'm not keeping you hostage, or if the letters are forged?"

"There's a bunch of magical signals I've been taught to use and place in things, just in case I get kidnapped. It goes without saying, but I won't use them. I also plan on making it very clear in any letter I write that I'm in love with you, Master." She was undeterred. "The only downside I can think of is that I'd have to sacrifice finishing my studies if I move to your estate."

"Do you want to keep going to the Centrian Academy of Science and Magic?" You inquired.

"I wouldn't really mind dropping out." Aila revealed. You personally weren't too surprised, considering she didn't have any friends and the closest thing to social interaction she had there was getting bullied or doing assignments. "Although there's a chance this study cycle I'm in the middle of will teach me a couple of specialized ally-strengthening spells, so I've been sticking around for that. It'll only be for two more weeks at most until I can either find an ancient spell and leave or try again by re-enrolling."

"What about your mission?"

"It's important..." Aila looked conflicted, but then gained a determined look in her eyes "But I'll follow you and devote myself to you instead, Master, as any good slave-wife should. Even if it means fighting against the Goddess of Creation Herself." She cleared her throat and looked nervous. "Um, please don't fight against the gods, Master. Gaining their ire usually doesn't end well for the mortal."

"I don't think that'll be an issue. I'm on really good terms with one of the gods." You gave Herta's butt a squeeze, and the Goddess of Artifice made a happy noise in response.

"-Phew- That's a relief." Aila wiped some sweat from her brow.

"Anyway, would you still have to finish the mission even if you officially became my slave? How would it work if you're not in the Academy anymore?"

"To that first question: Almost definitely yes." She deflated. "Following a vision from the gods is usually considered important. Unless there's an acceptable reason you can't do it, then you're pretty much bound by the Church to follow it. As for the second part; going to the Centria and saving the spells was in my vision, being in the Academy wasn't specified. I was sent there since it would've made things easier."

"Don't worry about that. I could make some artifacts or look into ancient shit." How hard could getting some ancient spells be?

"Thank you, Master." Aila gave you a small smile.

"Hey, you're my property now. It's only right I make sure you're safe and happy."