6th World Episode Chapter 2: The Belief That We Can Protect

It's been a while. You've brought the goods you promised to deliver, right?

...Yes, here they are.

One, two, three...

Gulp...

19 of them.

Why is one missing?

You were supposed to hand over 20 rabbit cookies, weren't you?

But...! I had no choice! I had to use one to check today's fortune!

That's your problem! Why should we care about your excuses, huh?

...What are they even doing?

Ruele lost at the card game yesterday, so she owes them rabbit cookies.

Yeah, I get that, but what's with the way they're talking?

Oh, Rinak likes to mimic the way I used to talk back in the day.

And Victorika... well, she seems to have picked it up along the way.

Thanks to those troublemakers, the lady's picked up some bad habits.

Hahaha!! Ten rabbit cookies! We can party all night long with this!!

I suppose it's better to have a laid-back troublemaker with me than a snobby noblewoman demanding cake.

But if the late head of the family saw her like this, I'd probably be strangled.

We've got a full day of walking tomorrow if we want to reach Dun Blyraia.

All right, enough snacks. Go brush your teeth and get to bed early.

You really think villains follow such a healthy routine?

Exactly! The night is just getting started!

Oh! So, you're choosing to defy me?

Try it, if you think you can handle what's coming.

W-Well, now that I think about it... I do feel a little tired.

M-My mouth does feel a bit sticky too. I guess I'll go brush my teeth.

See? Kids never listen the first time you tell them. Parenting is such a hassle.

Could you even call what you just did parenting? Most would call it intimidation.

We're finally off to Dun Blyraia! We'll meet the Heir of the Covenant there, won't we?

What's this? You're not heading off to bed with them?

Unlike those two, I'm a full-fledged adult, you know!

Adults are allowed to indulge in a bit of a wild lifestyle.

Funny, considering you were playing right alongside them just a moment ago and now you're acting all superior.

But I heard that only elves can navigate their way to Dun Blyraia. Are you sure we can find it?

Don't worry. I have ties with an elf from the past. She'll be our guide.

Wait, you know an elf?

I thought elves rarely left Dun Blyraia. How do you know each other?

Back when I used to do business, an elf happened to come in as part of the merchandise.

My boys went to collect a debt and ended up bringing back an elf instead.

What kind of business gets you into situations like that?

Curious?

No, never mind... I don't think I want to know.

Anyway, human trafficking causes too many problems, and dealing with it is a hassle in itself.

I kept her around, had her do various tasks, and when I figured she'd worked off the debt, I let her leave.

Later, I started receiving occasional letters about her adjusting well to life in the human world.

Last I heard, she's working as a mercenary in Savara.

Wow, you saved her! That's amazing!

It's not what you're thinking. I didn't care whether she thrived or starved once she left.

Anyway, since she's a useful connection, I figured it was a good time to reach out after all these years.

An elf who overcame hardship and carved her own path in life!

She's probably someone with a radiant vitality and unshakable will.

Maybe she could even be a candidate for an Heir.

I'm really looking forward to meeting her tomorrow. I wonder what she's like.

Hello, I'm Kluri. A mercenary.

Oh, so this is her!!

Wait, this isn't at all like what I pictured. She's kind of apathetic, and I don't sense any willpower from her...

For your information, my life motto is minimum effort, maximum reward.

If things get troublesome, I'll just leave you behind and run, so please don't cause any problems.

...Yeah, she's definitely not fit to be an Heir.

Hahaha, you really haven't changed a bit!

Elves don't change in just ten or so years, Robin.

Well then, if everything's set, let's get moving.

Be sure to follow the person in front closely so you don't accidentally get lost in the forest.

*rustling*

Inform Nilgal that the path has been opened.

We've arrived. This is Dun Blyraia.

Outsiders must first meet the Elder and pay their respects...

Kluri!! What do you think you're doing?!

One day, you just disappeared, and now you're back with all these outsiders.

Hey, relax! We're not bad people, I promise.

Saying that only makes you seem more suspicious.

Iseria, take it easy.

Still, this involves the safety of the elves...

They can't be bad people. See? Guardians are accompanying them.

Now that you mention it...

Thanks for recognizing that.

Greetings, I am Elder Saria of Dun Blyraia. And this here is my dear friend, Iseria.

I apologize for the tense reaction. There have been frequent intrusions and attacks from outsiders lately.

It's all right. We're the ones who came without notice.

Just as you said, we didn't come here with any bad intentions.

We only came because we heard that the Heir of the Covenant is here.

So, that's what brought you here. But unfortunately, the Heir of the Covenant left a few days ago.

What?! I thought we'd finally get to meet him this time!

So, you've seen the Heir of the Covenant in person, right?

How was he? What was he like?

As expected of the embodiment of the Goddess, he was truly noble and dependable.

...But I wasn't too fond of the black-haired swordsman traveling with him.

A mere human acting like he was someone important, telling the Heir of the Covenant what to do...

He only did that to help guide the Heir of the Covenant since there were many things he didn't know.

Anyway, we'll recognize you as guests of Dun Blyraia.

You've taken the time and effort to travel such a distance, so please don't be in a hurry to leave.

During your stay, you can relax here. And...

I apologize for the suspicion...

It's fine! It's my fault for looking like a criminal.

It's not just that you look like one. You actually are a former criminal...

I've heard about the recent incident. The Archdemon's forces tried to invade, didn't they?

I assumed you'd be on edge because of that.

That's right. Since they couldn't locate the path to Dun Blyraia, they tried to burn down the entire forest.

The forest gradually burned, and the elves who fled the flames were cut down by the Archdemon's army waiting nearby.

We were left with nothing but despair. But then...

Don't give up, Iseria.

But...! What else can we do here?

We need to surrender now. If we don't, we're all going to die.

Do you remember the time you went missing in the Death Swamp?

Everyone said you were probably dead. They told me to give up, that even I would be in danger if I kept going.

But I didn't give up.

It wasn't because I was sure you were still alive.

It was because you were so important to me.

I didn't give up because... I wanted to believe you were still alive.

Saria...

Hope isn't about certainty. It's about faith.

Just like I care about you, you care deeply for Dun Blyraia, don't you?

Then don't abandon the belief that you can protect this land and its elves, Iseria.

Seeing Saria hold on to hope gave us the strength to rise again.

When everyone came together to resist, the Heir of the Covenant appeared and saved us.

If we had chosen to surrender instead of fighting back, we wouldn't have been able to protect this land or its future.

What an inspiring story. It must have been incredibly difficult to find hope in the depths of despair.

Such determination and nobility! You're more than qualified to be an Heir!

Ahem... Would you, by any chance, be interested in becoming an Heir?

I've been wondering for a while now. What's this animal?

A horse...? It's way too small for that. A pig, maybe?

A p-pig?!

How rude!! My true form is–

Oh, so you want to know? But I can't just give away such premium information for free.

Hey, hey! What are you trying to make this innocent elf girl do?

Wh-What's going on? Why is everyone suddenly talking like that?

Iseria, come sit here. You too, Kluri. I'll show you a fun game.

What? Oh, no... I'm fine...

Come on, it wouldn't hurt to try this once, would it? It's not often that outsiders visit Dun Blyraia.

The world outside the forest is a lot more exciting than you think.

Why did I lose again?!

I was sure I'd win this time, so I bet all my rabbit cookies...

Well then, I guess I'll be taking all of the elf lady's rabbit cookies...

W-Wait!!

Let's not settle this round just yet. How about doubling the stakes for the next game instead?

But you don't have any more rabbit cookies to bet.

True, but I can offer something else. Like Dun Blyraia's specialty dew wine.

Oh, that does sound tempting!

Sigh... Forget it. Playing games against you is way too easy.

No matter how many times we play, the result will be the same, so why bother?

Why are you so sure of that? You never know the outcome until you've been dealt your cards!

Well... because Iseria...

It's like everything you're thinking shows on your face...

What?!

So, you knew all along and were just messing with me?

No, no. We weren't messing with you. You kind of did that to yourself...

In that case, I can't just let it go! This time, I'll restore my honor and prove myself–

Iseria?

Kyaaa!

I was wondering why you hadn't returned after guiding the guests. What exactly are you doing?

W-Well, you could call it... cultural exchange with the outside world...

You know I wasn't asking because I really wanted to know, right?

...

Apologies for the late disturbance. Have a good night.

Uhh, o-okay!

Wow, Saria's anger is really terrifying. It reminded me of how Robin looks when she's mad...

I suppose being the leader of the elves isn't a position you can achieve through gentleness alone.

I was so excited thinking I'd found the perfect candidate for an Heir. But Iseria has poor judgment, and Saria is just scary...

Sigh... When will I finally meet someone who can truly become my Heir?

Are you leaving already? You could stay a bit longer.

Since we don't know when the Archdemon might strike, we need to join the Heir of the Covenant as soon as possible.

When the day of reckoning comes, we will stand alongside you and fight for hope.

Until then, please stay safe and well.

Yes, you too.

And after we leave, don't go getting caught up in more games.

Iseria is disastrously bad at gambling.

That's right! When we meet again, I'll go easy on you, so stay out of trouble. Just wait patiently.

...Never again! I'm done with that kind of thing!

We didn't get to meet the Heir of the Covenant, but meeting the elves was a great experience!

Once the Archdemon War ends and peace returns, I'd love to visit again.

The Elder said they left for Taranor after saving Dun Blyraia.

Since I've been paid, I'll protect you until you leave the forest and arrive in Taranor.

Taranor, huh. I guess they went to the Fountain of Tears, then?

What's the Fountain of Tears?

You're an Heir and don't even know that? It's a sanctum. A place where the power of creation of Orbis gathers.

...Robin and I are from Lefundos, you know.

There weren't many chances to hear about the Church of the Goddess or the Heir of the Covenant there.

Honestly, I still find it hard to believe.

That's because I've never seen the Heir of the Covenant or the Archdemon War in person.

I suppose it's difficult to know much about the Heir of the Covenant's deeds outside of Ritania, where the Sanctuary is.

I can understand why you find it hard to believe.

Now that we're on the topic, the Heir of the Covenant is supposed to be a Goddess's alter ego, right?

Yes, according to the scriptures of the Church of the Goddess, the origin of the Covenant is explained alongside the creation myth.

So, the very existence of the Heir of the Covenant is a promise from the Goddess to protect this world.

But if the Heir of the Covenant is such an incredible figure, like the Goddess's alter ego, why would he even need other Heirs?

Doesn't the fact that he needs help imply that the Goddess or the Covenant isn't perfect or omnipotent?

That's...

And yet, everyone believes the Heir of the Covenant will solve everything.

Honestly, it feels like I'm the only one thinking rationally by doubting him.

Ugh... that's a sharp observation...

But so far, the Heir of the Covenant has never lost in a battle against the Archdemon.

And as for why other Heirs are necessary... Hmm. Maybe it's a kind of opportunity?

Opportunity?

What the Archdemon's army is after is the land we live on, and the ones being sacrificed are our friends and family, right?

Protecting them shouldn't fall on anyone else. It should be our duty.

That's why, even though the Heir of the Covenant could handle it alone, he has given us the chance to protect what's precious with our own hands.

Right, Zieg?

Hmph, why would I explain that to someone who's not even an Heir?

S-o-o. Just make me an Heir already!

Cough, cough... Only those who are truly noble and qualified can become an Heir...

Hold on!!

I'm glad you haven't exited the forest yet...

Did you come after us? Is something wrong?

...The scent of blood.

In Dun Blyraia...

An Acolyte has appeared.

Shortly after you left, the Acolyte Nilgal led a Naga army in an invasion.

They probably followed the traces left when the path to Dun Blyraia was opened.

...!! So, it's because of us...

We won't blame you. We've always expected that something like this would happen again sooner or later.

However, would you be willing to lend us your strength to fight the Acolyte?

With you Heirs by our side, I believe...

You think we can win? Is that what you're saying?

...Perhaps. I believe there's a chance.

We've fought against the Acolyte Tenebria before. Considering the difference in power, without reinforcements, it'll be difficult to win.

So you're suggesting we run away?

A true villain may betray justice, but never loyalty!

Only kids and fools fight battles they can't win.

Dun Blyraia may be special to you. But for us, it's just a place where we spent one night.

I don't have the kind of loyalty that's worth risking my life for in this case.

I probably won't be of much help either. I'm just a mercenary.

...Understood. I won't ask for your help.

What about the rest of you?

I'll help the elves.

I became an Heir not to win battles, but to save as many people as possible.

Then I'll go too...!!

What are you planning to accomplish, considering you're not even an Heir?

I understand that it's emotionally difficult to accept, but Robin isn't wrong.

Nilgal is known as a cruel and brutal Acolyte. We can't rely on the kind of luck we had with Tenebria.

...Wait a moment.

I know Nilgal's weakness. If we exploit it well, we might have a chance to win.

...!! What's his weakness?

What makes Nilgal so terrifying is the deadly poison that can kill with even the slightest touch.

That poison is produced in the venom glands on both of his shoulders.

If we can launch a surprise attack and sever both glands at the same time, Nilgal's combat power will be significantly weakened.

But if we're even slightly late, we'll be exposed to the poison with no protection.

That's true but...

There's nothing to gain from this fight. It's too dangerous.

Anyway, now that I know there's a way, I'm at least going to try.

Let's go, Ziegfried. We're saving Dun Blyraia!

Are you being reckless because you think Zieg will choose you as an Heir once we arrive?

Whether I become an Heir or not doesn't matter. I'm going as Victorika of House Hilag.

If I turn a blind eye to injustice for the sake of a greater cause and ignore what's right and my beliefs, then House Hilag might as well no longer exist.

Your father entrusted me with keeping you safe.

Are you planning to turn your back on Derek's final request?

...My father.

He must have had plenty of chances to flee the battlefield.

But instead, he stayed and fought for the weak, meeting his end in battle.

He passed down the spirit of House Hilag to me.

How could I possibly lose that spirit, the legacy my father left behind?

This lady...

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

So she wasn't driven by worldly greed back then when she said she needed to restore her family?

...Sigh, I guess there's no other choice. If I can't stop you, then I'll just have to go with you and protect you.

Let's see what the three of us can do together.

Thank you. Then let's move quickly.

...Robin.

When we left Lefundos, you made me a promise, remember?

That you would participate in the war as an Heir but would always act according to my judgment.

If you're going to act on your own, then I have no reason to stay by your side as your protector anymore.

...

Hahaha!! Suffer, be defiled, and fall into despair!

The poison is slowly corrupting the forest. At this rate, it will spread even to the young saplings...

That face...

How did he get this far...?!

The joy of tainting a face as pure as an unspoiled flower with grief and despair... you wouldn't understand, would you?

You too can't possibly understand the scent of flowers or the beauty of morning dew.

There's no way we're letting monsters like you take our forest!!

Hahaha, you speak as if you have a choice in the matter.

You've got a feisty side, so I'll melt your limbs away first and let you die last.

Writhe in helplessness... and die slowly!!

Ugh...

Iseria?!

I managed to bring an Heir. She's on her way here now.

I had a bad feeling, so I rushed ahead on my own. And it looks like that was the right call.

But you got hurt saving me...

It's just a scratch. I can keep fighting for a while.

Hahaha, how heartwarming. I can hardly stand it.

The more you resist, the longer and more agonizing your suffering will be.

For me, the longer I get to toy with you, the better. Hahaha!!

...The outsiders told me I'm terrible at gambling.

Maybe they're right.

After all, here I am, betting everything on a fight with such low odds.

But just a little. Even if it's just a little.

The tiniest glimmer of hope is all I need.

Hope isn't about certainty. It's about faith.

Just like I care about you, you care deeply for Dun Blyraia, don't you?

Then don't abandon the belief that you can protect this land and its elves, Iseria.

Iseria!!

Iseria, are you okay? That wound...

She was poisoned by Nilgal.

...!!

I can at least try to slow its spread...

There's no time for that!!

While we're standing here, the forest is burning, and elves are dying.

Please focus only on defeating the Acolyte as quickly as possible.

Saria, you too. Return to your position.

...All right.

Not a chance!!

...!! This...

I'll gather the power of the spirits in Destina's name and try to hold Nilgal back.

In the meantime, hurry...!!

When Nilgal gets distracted while facing Ruele and the Guardians...

Strike both shoulders, at the same time...

You pests!!!

Now's the time, Krau!!

Annoying little pests.

...!!

Kgh...

Oh no...

We failed...

At this rate... we'll fail...

Zieg, please. Make me an Heir right now.

If it can't be me, then let it be Krau. Or anyone here, just do it!!

...An Heir must be someone truly noble.

Even now, you're still saying that...!!

Because only someone who can protect the world even after knowing the hidden truth is worthy of becoming an Heir.

...What?

The Heir of the Covenant has always protected the world from the Archdemon without a single failure.

That's a fact. But it's not the complete truth.

So, are you saying the Heir of the Covenant might not be able to save the world?

That's right. Contrary to popular belief, it's not a battle where victory is guaranteed.

The beings bound to this land are restored when Diche repairs the world, returning them to the form they had at that time.

But Heirs are different.

By obtaining transcendent power through a contract with a Guardian, they break free from their original fate and causality.

...

If you don't become an Heir, you can be reborn, knowing nothing of what happened.

Of course, if the Goddess's power ever runs out, even that would come to an end.

...Even so.

I still want to become an Heir.

This isn't a decision to make out of simple heroism...

What's troubled me all this time wasn't the fear of death.

When my father died.

And when my uncle tried to tarnish our family's name.

It was the helplessness of being unable to do anything that bothered me.

Let me do what I can.

Grant me the power to fight for those I want to protect.

I'll end you with this!!

I really... can't hold on much longer.

...Hehe, Destina, please don't say such things. I will always live on in your heart.

Don't give up, everyone!!

Ack?!

Victorika?

You... that form...

From here on, I'll take the front line. Can you hold on just a bit longer?

...Yes!

You could have lived if you'd run, but instead, you walked right into your death.

Do you seriously think you can win?

We don't know if the future truly exists or if it's something we're permitted to have.

But...

But there are moments when, even if it doesn't exist or isn't permitted, you have to believe and move forward.

I have no idea what kind of nonsense you're spouting.

Looks like you're too dumb to understand big words.

But then again, what do you expect from a snake head?

When did she pick up such rough language...?

Hehe, well... it's not like she's wrong, is she?

You little brats... are you mocking me?

Even with an extra Heir now, the outcome will be the same...

...What now?

It's not just one Heir.

Then time is of the essence. Please head out immediately.

I'll head to Dun Blyraia first and leave markers for you to follow.

Understood. It's not my first time here, and retracing the path we took shouldn't be hard.

If you cross paths with the Heir of the Covenant later, don't hold any grudges, okay?

As you know, it was my decision to stop Rinak from joining you, not hers.

...Stop it, Robin.

Don't worry, I have no plans to hold anything against you.

If we meet again, it'll only be something to celebrate.

That's right! I hope I get to see Rinak and Robin again too!

...Robin.

I've been through my fair share of struggles, so I can understand why you made that choice...

But you might end up losing something truly precious that way.

Is that supposed to be a curse? Kind of cold for a farewell message.

No, it's just from experience.

If it's a fight you can't run from, it's better to muster your courage while you still have even one comrade left standing.

Just something to keep in mind.

...We don't have time for this, do we? Go quickly.

Just like you said. Go while there's still at least one elf left to fight alongside you.

Now then, shall we continue on to Taranor?

All right.

...

Looks like Rinak is seriously upset. It's going to take a while for her to get over it.

How about you? Are you okay leaving your homeland behind?

I left Dun Blyraia when I was young, so I don't have much attachment to the place anyway.

As a realist, I actually think your point makes sense, Robin.

I'm relieved someone understands me.

But there's one thing that's been bothering me.

Robin, why did you decide to leave the backstreets?

You said before that anyone who knows the secrets of the backstreets wouldn't be allowed to live peacefully in the open world.

You used to mock those who dreamed of living in the open world and ended up getting eliminated, calling them fools.

I just got tired of doing the same thing for so long.

And someone with my skills wouldn't have to worry about that...

But not Rinak, right?

Before she gained the power of an Heir, she was probably just a burden to you. So why did you keep her around?

...What exactly are you getting at?

Even someone as calculating and cold as you, Robin, makes choices that don't always have immediate benefits.

Like taking Rinak in, or saving me.

Still, I'm different from them.

I didn't do it out of any sense of justice or duty. It was just a whim, based on how I felt.

I'm no hero, and I'm definitely not kind. If anything, I'm the opposite.

Haha...

Why are you laughing?

Ah, so even Robin has a shy side.

Quite the attitude you've developed, huh? Seems like you're due for a bit of discipline.

But isn't it nice that way?

Knowing that even an ordinary person who isn't a hero or especially kind can still save others.

...

Robin, you probably see Rinak as inexperienced and not very dependable...

But even someone like that is capable of saving others.

Meaning, if you don't act, you're choosing not to save someone you otherwise could have.

And that's something she can't bear.

But it doesn't have to be her. If the task can be done by anyone, then someone else can step in and do it.

I swore to protect Rinak until she became an adult.

I'm not telling you to let her fight until she dies.

I'm saying that, instead of running away together, there's also the option to fight together.

...Sigh.

Rinak.

...What?

Just do what you can. Promise me you won't risk your life.

...!! So I'm allowed to go too?

That's right. If we move now, we can still make it.

Kluri, can I ask you to guide us?

Of course. But don't expect me to join the fight. I live by the motto, minimum effort, maximum reward.

*shrieking*

We've severed the venom glands, so it should be easier to deal with him now, right?

Rinak! And Robin, too...!!

Save the greetings for later. Right now, we have to deal with him.

You insignificant pests...!!

I'll crush you to death!!

Ugh...

Iseria!!

Nilgal's poison has... Now it's too late...

Wait, I'll ask Ruele to help...

There's no time to spare for just me right now, Saria. You know that.

I'll fight in Iseria's place.

If you stay still, the poison might spread a little slower.

Just hold on a little longer. At this rate, we can defeat Nilgal.

...Rinak.

I thought you wouldn't come.

I convinced myself that I had to accept it if you didn't...

But the truth is... I think I was waiting for you all along.

I feel this much joy just from seeing you one last time.

...I told you to stop talking and rest!

Save your thanks for later, after we've taken him down.

Ugh...

Defeated by those pathetic worms... I...

Huff... Huff... Is it over?

Looks like it.

But I'm not... going down alone.

Here's a parting gift you won't forget. See you in hell, brats!!!!

...!! He's planning to release all his poison in a suicide attack.

It's too late to block it, take cover!!

...Huh?

What's going on? Did nothing actually happen?

No, it's... thanks to the protective spell of the Nocturnes. Which means...

We were late, but not too late.

Are you hurt anywhere?

So he's the Heir of the Covenant...

FWIP THUNK

Huh...

Ouch...

I told you to watch your step. The ground's super slippery from all the blood.

Arky knew this would happen to Master, so Arky made himself cozy in Kise's arms, kyukyukyu...

...Hmm, this isn't exactly what I imagined. He seems kind of dumb.

Be quiet. That's blasphemy.

But where's Iseria? She was the most valiant among the elves during the previous fight.

Now that you mention it, she disappeared somewhere halfway through...

...Iseria is...

No... hang in there... just a little more, Iseria!

Once it's all over, we'll go to the World Tree. Then...

You already know, don't you? There's no saving me now.

*sobbing*

...Saria, I'm all right.

I'm glad I didn't let go of hope, just like you said.

I'm relieved that my hope was able to protect you...

I'm truly grateful.

I was planning to tell you after this battle ended. That Iseria left peacefully, with a smile.

I see. Please accept my condolences.

....If I had been here from the start, maybe Iseria wouldn't have had to die.

I could have saved her...

I... I could have probably saved her...

...

Anyway, let's take care of the remaining Archdemon's forces before any more damage is done.

We can grieve afterward.

...Here, Iseria will rest peacefully.

I'm sorry. If I had arrived sooner, I could've minimized the damage.

This isn't your fault, Ras.

And I believe that Iseria and I will meet again, in one form or another.

As a passing breeze, a singing bird, or fluttering petals...

So Ras, protect this world that Iseria gave her life to save, and the world where I hope to meet her again someday...

I ask you to please do so.

...I will.

Because that's my duty.

You know, the Heir of the Covenant is a lot different from what I imagined.

What did you imagine him to be like?

Let's see... Someone like the Goddess, who radiates warmth and compassion for all life. Someone who knows everything, is good at everything, that kind of vibe.

But instead, the vibe is kind of emotionally dry, and his actions are a bit clumsy...

Hahaha!!

Hey, you can't just say things like that! You'll get in trouble!

Don't worry, it's fine. Sure, I'm affiliated with the Kingdom of Ezera now, but I'm not some fanatic.

And to be honest, when I first saw Ras, I had the same thoughts.

But he's a being who only wakes up to fight during the Archdemon War, then returns to sleep when peace comes, repeating that cycle endlessly.

He's hardly spent any time living in the human world. How much could he really understand us?

He's actually kind of a tragic figure.

Could it be because of that?

The true appearance of the Goddess Diche, who loves everyone, may be that kind of form, indifferent to everybody.

Because to love everyone equally, there can be no exceptions.

I see... That sounds kind of lonely.

It might be.

I just hope the Goddess spared him from experiencing the feeling of loneliness.