6th World Episode Chapter 1: Acolyte's Appearance

Ack...!!

My, what happened to all that bravado from before?

Toying with you was amusing while it lasted...

But now that a Guardian has shown up, I'm not left with much choice.

It's certainly a bummer, but playtime is over.

I guess...this is the end of the road...

Krau...!!

Really? I've seen others hallucinate moments before they die, but mine had to be that little lady fiend?

Well, well. Look who came running back.

You saved me the effort of hunting you down. Though, I'm dying to know what my adorable toy thinks.

...It's not a hallucination?!

I put my life on the line so you could get away, so why did you come back!

B-But...

Zieg ran out of power before we could barely make it over the hill.

What? How can a Guardian be this feeble?!

Neigh... Without an Heir, I can't fully use my powers...

Oh, how it warms my heart to see you vigorous enough to bicker, even in the face of death.

Now, why don't you two be good little children...

And fall into an endless nightmare.

*panting*

She won't be able to follow us this far. Here, let's take a moment.

We appreciate the help, but mind if I ask who you two are?

And that girl... Was that a Guardian she was riding? Are you one of the Heirs?

And what of it?

We've been out here these past few days to gather information, but out of nowhere, that woman Tenebria had to show up.

We were planning to slip away before she caught wind of us, but Hanien recognized that foal, so we decided to save you.

Hanien?

The Guardian that Rinak made a contract with. Oh, and Rinak is that twin-tailed brat who saved you.

And I'm the kid's surrogate, Robin.

Who are you calling a brat!?

When is she going to stop treating me like a child...?

Oh, what a relief, you made it out safely!

Thank you so much! Lives were saved today because of you.

Putting her own life on the line to save us...

Take a good look, Victorika! Only those with a noble spirit, like her, can become an Heir.

Throwing tantrums like you won't get you there at all!

The heck you two babbling about? I saved you because...

SNATCH!!

Ah! My necklace!!

I noticed you had something valuable, so I figured I'd take it as payment for saving your life.

No! I can't give that to you, no matter the reason!

What? I thought you said you were grateful! Didn't anyone teach you to show some sincerity?

...So, "foal," what was that about only noble spirits becoming Heirs?

...Ahem! Hanien, what on Orbis compelled you to make a contract with someone so...scrappy?

Everyone has...their own reasons, don't they?

Hey, that's enough about us. I'm more interested in hearing about you guys.

I heard that that Zieg foal is a Guardian, and the little lady to be their Heir, but that doesn't seem to be the case...

So, care to explain how the two of you ended up rolling in the mud with a Guardian who hasn't made a contract?

Well... it's kind of a long story.

O' chosen one, for what purpose dost thou cometh to me? What is it that thou seekest to preserve?

...What's up with this chonky little thing?

Beats me. Kinda looks like those cheapass consolation dolls they give you, but it's sure speaking like it's hot stuff.

What is up with these people?!

Ahem, this is just a temporary form I've taken since I haven't made a contract with an Heir yet and can't access my full power.

My true form is far more impressive, you know.

Oh, is that it? Fine, let's get a move on then.

I asked you why you have come to seek me out, didn't I? I can't form a contract with someone who hasn't answered my question!

I need to become an Heir to reclaim the House Hilag, okay?

So, it's all about becoming the family head, huh?

I won't give the role of Heir to someone driven by selfish ambition!

What?! I've been trudging all the way here in these shoes, and you're just telling me to leave?!

So, what's your next move, young lady?

Hmph, let it be stubborn all it wants.

*grasps*

What do you think you're doing?!

You said you're basically powerless without making a contract, right?

Then I'll drag you around and pester you until you're willing to make that contract with me.

Just so you know, that girl's personality is no joke.

If you want to stop her from making your life miserable, you'd better agree to make the contract quickly.

These... these scoundrels!! How did riffraff like these two make it all the way here?!

I specifically asked the continent's most devout priest to reveal this place only to those worthy of being Heirs!!

Don't tell me that even a priest as devout as him was swayed by your wickedness...

Oh, you're talking about that priest, Morfid, right?

Is this the relic blessed with the kiss of the Heir of the Covenant?

I heard this is the cup he drank from during a short visit to our castle...

I've heard stories about the miracle that took place long ago at a banquet held by the House Hilag.

When his lips touched the water, it supposedly turned into a sweet, fragrant wine.

So, the lips of the Heir of the Covenant touched this very spot... hehe... hehehehe...

This priest seems a bit... off. Can we really trust him?

Anyway, since you've given me something so valuable, it's only fair that I provide you with some valuable information in return.

Ask whatever you want! I, Morfid, am more than happy to share everything with you!

And that's how he ended up telling us everything including the things we didn't even ask.

That damned priest...!!!

Enough explanations, right? Now, hop into this bag.

What?! You dare treat me like luggage...!

If you don't get in, I'll shove you in myself.

...Given the situation, it seems I have no choice but to go along quietly...

But there's no way I'm giving the position of Heir to someone like this.

I'll stick with this group and find someone who truly fits the role of an Heir.

Then, I'll quickly make a contract with that person, regain my powers, and escape!

You expect me to sleep in a place like this?!

Hey, lady. Shouldn't you be used to this by now?

You should be grateful just to have a roof over your head and a blanket to sleep under.

I-I know! But... you can't expect me to get used to living like this overnight.

With the way you act, you're practically a street thug already...

You little...!!

So, what's your plan now?

Your plan of becoming an Heir, taking over as family head, and ousting your uncle has gone up in flames.

Well...

I was so sure it would work that I didn't bother coming up with a backup plan.

You're truly a reckless young lady...

But as long as I have the Hilag Lance, the symbol of the family head, my uncle won't be able to officially take the position... for now!

Which is exactly why your uncle's tracker has been hunting you down.

With almost no money left, I wonder how long you can keep fleeing.

Th-That's the whole reason you're with me, right?! To protect me!

Why would I protect someone who's broke?

I told you, once I reclaim the position of the family head, I'll reward you generously.

The problem is whether that day will ever actually come...

If you sold that necklace you're wearing, we could probably afford food and shelter for about three months without any problems...

No! I'm not selling this!!

I'll stop complaining about the lodgings and won't be picky about food anymore...

*sighing*

Wh-What? Where are you heading?

To see if there's any work nearby that could earn us some money.

Maybe we can guard a merchant caravan in exchange for food and lodging... We need to find a way to survive somehow.

So... you will come back, right?

Yes, since I still have some of the advance payment your father gave me for your protection.

Since you're heading out, could you do me a small favor?

What is it?

Pick up a strawberry cake on your way back, okay?

...

Come on! Just one cake for a little mood boost isn't too much to ask!!

Every single one of you is tainted by worldly desires...

Strawberry cake my ass. We don't have the money for luxuries like that.

Never mind. She's royalty, not a street rat like me. What would she know?

By the way, this village's taverns are pretty dead. Doesn't seem like we'll find any useful information here.

Well, as long as I have an excuse to enjoy a drink under the guise of gathering intel, I'm happy.

Did you hear the news? The Archdemon's forces have invaded Levulin.

If they've gotten that far, it won't be long before this village is in danger too...

Don't lose hope just yet!

The Heir of the Covenant is rallying Guardians and Heirs!

Once they're fully prepared, they'll drive those ragtag forces away in no time.

Justice always prevails, doesn't it?

Yes, yes. He'll restore peace soon.

That's ridiculous.

What?

Blasphemous fool!! Do you not have faith in the Heir of the Covenant?

Sure, sure. The Heir of the Covenant will triumph eventually.

But will you still be alive by the time the war is over?

Think about it. What good is peace if you're already dead?

Many lives will be lost, and widespread destruction will follow before the Archdemon is defeated.

Can you guarantee that you won't get caught in the aftermath?

Th-That's...

For ordinary people, noble ideals aren't what matter most.

What matters is figuring out how to increase your chances of survival, even by a little.

...What exactly are you trying to say?

While the Covenant may end the war, it won't protect your lives along the way...

And that although I can't end this war, I can safeguard your protection.

Ha! That's ridiculous. You're not even an Heir, and you think you can protect us?

Frankly, it won't be me.

But someone in our group happens to have a Guardian.

Well... it's true that we have one with us.

What? Is that really true?!

I swear it on the name of the Goddess.

So, how about a little payment for our protection services?

Wh-What's that?!

Damn... I was so close to sealing the deal. What's going on?

A-An... Acolyte!! Tenebria has invaded the village!!

What...?

Ahaha!! Squeal like a pig! Louder!!

That's Acolyte Tenebria...

It's my first time seeing an Acolyte in person... But even at a glance, she's on a completely different level from ordinary soldiers of the Archdemon's army we've faced so far.

Wh-What are we supposed to do now?!

You there!! You said you'd protect us, right? How much do you need for that?

Forget negotiating! Give him all we have!! I'll take out a loan if I have to...

Victorika is in danger...!!

H-Hey, you! Where are you going? Hey, come back!!

Why ask? He's a scammer saving his own skin!!

We don't have time for this! We need to run too!

This place has been completely reduced to ruins!

Damn it... I should never have left, even with the Guardian around...

Victorika!! Victorika!!

Say something if you can hear me!! Victorika!!

Over here!!

Krau, you're safe!!

Zieg, no, Guardian Ziegfried?

Does this transformation mean you made a contract with her...?

Impossible!!

No matter how desperate things are, I would never choose this reckless girl as an Heir!

But I couldn't just sit back and watch her die, so I used the last of my strength to get her to safety!

I see. Thank you for keeping Victorika safe.

Hmph, it wasn't a big deal...

Since I already owe you, let me ask for one more favor. Take Victorika and me somewhere safe.

You want me to carry two people?!

H-Hey... wait!! Why are you climbing on without my permission!!

Let's go, Zieg!!

Where are you off to in such a hurry?

Kyaaaa!!

I came all this way, so isn't it polite to stay a little longer and play?

There's no way we can both escape. In that case, at least Victorika should...!

You're asking us to go back and fight the Acolyte after barely escaping with our lives?

I'm not asking you to defeat the Acolyte on your own, of course.

I requested reinforcements immediately after the Acolyte appeared, so help from the Order should arrive within half a day.

All I ask is that you buy enough time for the villagers to escape before they're slaughtered.

There are many innocent children who haven't even had the chance to experience the world yet. Please help them...

...Hey Rinak.

I...

No. I can't allow it.

What's the point of risking our lives and wasting time here to save a few more people, other than self-satisfaction?

If, as Hanien says, the Heir of the Covenant is the only one who can save the world...

Then joining the Heir of the Covenant as quickly as possible and ending the war sooner will save far more lives.

You realize that, don't you?

...

Sorry, Sister! As you can tell, given our circumstances, we won't be able to assist you.

This is all to save the world, so we ask for a bit of understanding.

I see... I understand.

So, what do you plan to do now, Sister? If you're thinking of escaping, we could lend a hand.

No, I'm going back.

With what little strength I have... I must try to hold off the Acolyte.

There's no way that'll work!

Perhaps you're right. It might be inefficient and perhaps nothing more than meaningless self-satisfaction.

But I don't know how to turn away from those in pain.

You all should go fulfill your mission. I will fulfill mine here.

The more I listen to this...

This seems like a pretty good opportunity, don't you think?

Sister, how much money do you have with you?

Money? Not much, I'm afraid...

Hmm, is that so? Still, I'm sure the people in this village have at least something to offer.

If we promise to protect them, they'd probably be willing to give up everything they own.

As I said, we really can't afford to–

Not we. Just me. I'll stay behind.

You and Rinak should leave to find the Heir of the Covenant. And while you're at it, I'd appreciate it if you could take Victorika and Ziegfried with you.

Why are you leaving me behind like a piece of luggage?

As a knight of House Hilag, I'll fight too!!

Forget it. I'm not planning to win by fighting. If you come along, you'll mess up my plan.

I'll secure a hefty reward and catch up later, so just wait patiently, lady.

...I said that with confidence.

But honestly, facing the real deal is a bit nerve-wracking.

Hmm? Aren't you the one who ran off earlier?

I thought you'd be smart enough to stay gone after slipping away.

But now that you're back, what should I make of this?

Once I made sure the lady was safe, I couldn't help but worry about the villagers.

Such chivalry... Almost like a scene from a storybook.

Fits your tastes, doesn't it?

Hmm... I'm not sure yet. To know for certain if it's to my liking...

I'll have to dig a little deeper.

Seems I've successfully grabbed her attention, as planned.

I'm not willing to stop your meaningless death, but I can't help wondering what's on your mind.

Someone like me wouldn't last a second if Tenebria decided to kill me.

But I'm sure she won't.

Hmm...?

Why would an Acolyte bother invading a village like this in the first place?

It's to weaken and spread out the forces around the Sanctuary before the Archdemon's advent.

Archdemon's forces only need to take over the Sanctuary, but humans have too much to protect.

That's why, despite knowing it's a trap to weaken their forces, humans have no choice but to show up to the location of the invasion.

In short, they won't waste their full strength on something as trivial as a trap.

After all, their real opponents aren't ordinary civilians, but the Covenant and Heirs.

She's planning to stall for time while toying with people's lives.

Reports say Acolyte Tenebria is highly unpredictable and enjoys messing with her opponents.

If I manage to catch her attention, she's more likely to break me piece by piece than finish me off quickly.

Since there's no need to rush, let me take my time savoring this.

The darkness hidden behind that carefree smile...

Hey, hey...!!

What's up with him today? He's usually fine even after drinking barrels of alcohol!

Even the mighty Raven seems to have struggled with taking down bandits!

This place is... from back then...

I see now. The nickname, the Phantom Queen, comes from this kind of ability.

Your sword is meant to protect, not to harm.

So don't even think about swinging it carelessly for pride or glory.

Your name's Raven Dayer, 24 years old, right?

Hmph... You look younger...

But isn't skill what really matters? I probably have the best test scores anyway.

If I were just some kid who didn't know how to fight, what would that say about the people I've defeated.

Ugh... I lost, you damn boozehound...

See? I told you. Whether it's a sword fight or a drinking contest, you'll need at least 10 more years to beat me.

You arrogant little brat... Once you're my age, you'll feel the wear and tear too.

What are you talking about? We're the same age...

Don't worry, I won't report anything to the guild.

No one benefits from being seen as an inexperienced kid.

I know how it feels. I had to start earning money early too because of my family's struggles.

Times are tough for everyone, right?

...

But at least Lydia, Hugo, and I aren't the type to exploit someone's weaknesses.

So you don't have to hide anything from us.

Krau, it's finally time for you to take action.

At last! What's the situation?

There are reports of rebel forces stirring in a nearby territory.

It's not a large organization yet, but their numbers are growing rapidly.

Your mission is to suppress the rebels threatening the royal family before they become a bigger issue.

Most of them are just peasants who've never even held a sword. Some with mercenary backgrounds are among them, but they're nothing more than a ragtag bunch.

Peasants and mercenaries...

Are you disappointed that your opponents aren't up to your standards? But this is an important task nonetheless.

You'll draw your sword with pride, safeguarding the kingdom.

...And this was the scene awaiting me on the battlefield.

Such a vivid nightmare... It feels like I've been thrown right back to that day.

*gasping*

You... was this your plan all along?

I had no idea and yet... I trusted you...

...

Even with Elrond dead, this still isn't over, is it?

I suppose if it could end, it wouldn't be a nightmare.

What's truly horrifying isn't the moment I committed the crime, but the fact that I'll carry this guilt for the rest of my life.

In the end, what did I really manage to protect?

Maybe I've lost... what's truly important as a human, instead.

Maybe I...

Snap out of it!!

Victori...

SMACK!!

V-Victorika! I think Krau just regained consciousness for a moment!

But it seems like he passed out again after that hit...

What?! You should've said something sooner!

Hah... I'm not such a weakling that I'd faint from a lady's punch.

Were you venting some built-up grudge while I was unconscious?

You looked like you were suffering, so I just gave you a little nudge to help you wake up.

And it's not just your face that's hurting! Look at my hand! It's all puffed up from smacking that rough face of yours.

It's basically like your face punched my hand!!

Anyway, what are you doing here, lady? And why are you equipped with the Hilag Lance and armor?

I told you to leave it to me and run because it was dangerous.

Don't tell me that woman abandoned you and ran off...

Oh, come on, I'm hurt you'd think of me that way.

Believe it or not, I always see my tasks through to the end. That's my business code.

While you were buying time, new reinforcements showed up.

What do you mean...?

BAM!

Now, Zeaon!!

What's that huge thing?!

It's the Guardian Zeaon and Heir Ruele. They joined us not long after you left.

The two wouldn't stop whining about how having two Heirs was enough to stall the enemy, so they insisted on coming to help you.

Parenting is such a hassle...

If it was reckless, I'm sure you'd have left me behind, no matter how much others pleaded.

Anyway, you came to save me, so thanks for that.

Now that Krau has regained consciousness, let's hurry and evacuate the people!

While Krau kept Tenebria distracted, we managed to evacuate most of the people...

But we couldn't evacuate those trapped in areas heavily occupied by the Archdemon's forces.

So all we need to do is clear out the Archdemon's troops from the areas with people still stuck, right?

Leave it to me!

Is it... over?

For now, it seems that way.

Hmph, what's the big deal? Acolytes aren't so tough after all.

Whew... I was seriously scared...

All the civilians have been safely evacuated. The Order should take care of the remaining enemies.

Oh my, that's such a relief!

Thanks to you showing up, both I and the townspeople were able to stay safe.

Ah, so you must be Krau, the one Victorika mentioned.

I'm Ruele Destina, the Heir chosen by the Guardian Zeaon and the successor of Destina.

While tracking the trails of the Heir of the Covenant, I heard about the Acolyte's invasion and came here.

I didn't expect to meet another Heir in this place!

No wonder the rabbit fortune cookie predicted good luck today. What a wonderful encounter!

I know what an Heir is, but what's a successor?

Someone blessed by the Spirit Lord, given permission to use their name and power.

With the powers of both an Heir and a successor, you're easily one of the top Heirs ever.

Wow... that's beyond amazing.

Oh...!! I just got a message from Destina!

From the Spirit Lord Destina?

What did she say?

She said that among all the Heirs in history, I'm the most adorable.

Oh come on, Destina...!

...

Actually, now that I think about it, it's not all that impressive...

Thanks to your help, we avoided a disaster. I really appreciate it.

It's all because the Sister had the courage to seek out help.

And thanks to that, I managed to earn some travel funds for a while.

My business funds...

Don't be so stingy. Your life comes first. You can always earn more money.

This city is going to need funds for recovery as well, not just us.

If I had a necklace or something, I'd have handed it over to help with relief and reconstruction...

What are you staring at? This is mine now, you know!

It's the payment I earned for saving your life!

No need to worry, the Conclave will provide support, so I'll just take your kindness to heart.

We're leaving soon to find the Heir of the Covenant. What's your plan?

Since I'm also looking for the Heir of the Covenant, teaming up sounds perfect.

We...

Traveling together seems like a great idea!!

Without someone to stop this lady from harassing me, I might just give in and make a contract out of desperation!

Besides, being near Heirs should increase the odds of finding someone useful.

As Zieg mentioned, why not travel together? We didn't have a fixed destination, did we?

We could receive help like today and save on the costs of food and lodging.

Well, if that's your decision, then so be it.

So, this is really goodbye, then.

I'll be sure to repay the kindness you've shown me today. Until we meet again, stay safe, everyone.

Yeah, let's meet again someday.

Sister! Where have you been? I've been waiting forever.

Sorry, I was away for a moment to see the Heirs off.

Why the fuss? If it was so urgent, you could've gone to another Sister.

And honestly, your wound isn't even that bad. Stop overreacting.

Sh-Shut up! I'll decide who treats me, thank you very much.

Calm down or your wound will open up again. Let me see now...

Huh?

This necklace... I'm sure it was in Rinak's hands.

So why is it in my pocket?

It's been a long day, hasn't it?

Yeah, it really has.

You must be tired. I'll keep watch, so you can go get some sleep.

No thanks! Don't suddenly treat me like a lady only when it's convenient for you.

You're the one who worked hard all day. Why don't you go rest instead?

...No, I'm fine. I feel like if I sleep now, I'll just end up having a nightmare again.

So, what exactly did you dream about when Tenebria had you?

You looked like you were in agony, mumbling about losing something.

It's nothing... really. Just something I'd grown numb to becoming clear again.

If it's nothing, then just spit it out already.

...Why should I?

A vassal should never hide anything from their lord!

The one who hired me is the former head of the family, not you. You're just someone I was asked to look after.

W-Well, anyway! I'm curious.

I guess it doesn't matter. The more I hide something trivial, the more annoying she'll get about it.

When I was about your age, I was deployed to suppress a rebel force.

Among those rebels were people I had been close to.

I did as my father commanded and dealt with them to uphold the kingdom's order...

But it left me feeling like I lost something far more valuable.

What was I really supposed to protect back then?

How would I know that?

Hey, I was just venting, you know? I wasn't asking a question.

What you choose to protect is something you have to decide for yourself.

If you only follow the will of others, you'll never be able to protect what truly matters to you.

...!

If you don't know what to protect yet, why not take your time and find it?

Not through orders from me or anyone else, but by following what your heart truly wants to protect.

...Like father, like daughter, huh?

What? What's that supposed to mean?

Surprisingly, you do share a few traits with the former head of the family. I used to doubt if you were even his real daughter since you seemed so different.

You, you!! After all that advice I gave you...!

Shut up already!! Let me sleep!!

When will I finally be free from these noisy people?

Please, future Heir of mine, save me...!!