Side Episode: Aki Chapter 2: The Inheritor of the Flame

My name is Aki. I'm known to the world as the Inheritor of the Flame, and I am the Heir of the Guardian Hanien.

I'm also one of the strongest Heirs of all time. You know, the one who joined forces with the Heir of the Covenant and took down the Archdemon in the previous Archdemon War.

And I'm telling you right now, this Archdemon War...

...is completely screwed. I can't see any way out.

...Aki?

Did... Did Aki just say we're "screwed"?

No way, you heard him wrong. The Inheritor of the Flame would never say something like that...

No matter how I look at it, it's a disaster from the start.

Hey, Hanien. Don't you think it'd be better to just give up this time?

...

...

...Ahem. You two, isn't it time for your patrol? You should get going.

Y-Yes, Hanien.

We'll report back later!

...Aki? Do you think you could filter yourself, at least while the soldiers are listening?

...Who cares? My long journey is finally coming to an end this time anyway.

If those guys have died and come back five times, I'd say they've earned the right to know the truth.

Don't be ridiculous. Now, get up. Why the long face?

...A report just came in from the front lines. The Archdemon worshipers finally succeeded in their resurrection ritual.

No way... It's only been a few months since the last Archdemon War. This soon?

Yep. It looks like the one we defeated last time was just an empty shell, an alter ego.

Dammit. I should have realized it sooner.

Kayron... that bastard must be behind this. He must have sensed that my power has reached its limit.

He probably hid the Archdemon's Core somewhere else and just pretended to be going all-out.

And as a result, every Heir on our side, except me, is dead...

And Ras can't return to the battlefield for a while, since he needs to recover his strength.

It's up to me to win this war. Even if it costs me my final life.

That's... the duty I bear, as the only Heir left alive.

Aki...

...I didn't mean to drag you down, too.

Well, all right. Let's try to figure out what to do next.

Come to think of it... in the previous Restored World, bandits burned down a few villages in Northern Ezera around this time.

Things went south on the Taranor front so fast that I was late to respond.

Let's see. The villages I was managing were... Jumer, Oldo... dammit, Mayer.

I had my eye on a girl in Mayer Village... thought she could be an Heir candidate...

Should I head over now? No, it's too late. Forget it.

Tenebria will be quiet as long as we don't provoke her, and Kayron is tied up in Taranor...

Nilgal is always the problem. That bastard always invades Dun Blyraia first.

Maybe if we just abandon the Elves...

Aki!!!

...Ugh, don't shout like that. What's wrong?

Aki... I know you're anxious, but you don't have to bear this all on your own.

If you join forces with the comrades left, maybe...

...Comrades left? Are you talking about Ras and Vildred?

What hope are you pinning on a brat who's not even an Heir, and a Covenant that's completely spent?

Whether it's me or them, we're all just a bunch of guys who can't understand each other.

That's why... I'm better off working alone.

But... you fought with your comrades in the past.

...The past, you say...

Hanien... do you remember the Heirs from the previous worlds?

Yes, every single one. Even if their existence is erased, the memories of the Guardian and the Heirs remain.

Right. This damn body never deteriorates... so it's impossible to forget.

But, Hanien.

This world may be destroyed and restored over and over... But in my memories, time just keeps flowing.

The memories of my comrades who fell... on a yesterday that was decades, even centuries ago... they don't disappear, but they grow faint.

...

You might have been created with a mind and body that can endure it, but I'm different.

They can call me the "Final Heir" or the "Inheritor of the Flame" all they want... But in the end, I'm just an ordinary human who's been alive for way too long.

I'm too tired to bear any more loss. And it just so happens my strength is finally giving out...

So I want you to help me put a meaningful end to it all in this Restored World.

Aki...

Aki! Urgent news, sir!

...Yeah. What is it?

The stalemate on the southern Taranor front is broken...! A woman with a scythe just appeared and is attacking the Archdemon's army!

...What? Reinforcements? Did you check with the nearby units?

Doesn't look like it, sir. They're asking us the same questions.

Hmm... Interesting. A mysterious woman suddenly appears on a battlefield that's completely surrounded by our forces and the Archdemon's.

This didn't happen in the previous Restored Worlds, right, Hanien?

No. This is the first time we've experienced this anomaly.

...All right, I'll go check it out myself. All troops are to hold their positions until I return.

What? Hold on, Aki! You're planning to dive into the heart of the battlefield alone?

Huh? What are you talking about? You're coming with me.

I'm going on ahead! Try not to get hit by a stray arrow!

...

"A meaningful end," my foot. I was a fool to get sentimental for even a second.

*sighing*... I suppose I have no choice.

Wait for me, Aki! I'm coming with you!

The Archdemon's forces actually pulled back... Their morale must have been sky-high after a successful summoning.

Was this truly the work of that woman from the reports?

Seems so. Pushing back the front line all by herself... Reminds me of myself in my glory days.

H-Hold on.

This entire area is saturated with otherworldly energy. A Chaos Gate must have opened up somewhere close.

Really? All I sense is the murky energy of the dead.

My body is fused with an awakened spirit, remember? I'm familiar with otherworldly energy, so I can feel it clearly, like oil on water.

...We've been together for a long time, but I never knew you had that ability.

Nothing like this ever happened in the previous Restored Worlds. So I never had a chance to show it off.

Anyway, all kinds of mana are gathering and flowing toward one spot.

It's this way. Follow me.

...

Ah. It seems I truly have fallen into a different world. This is the first time someone has failed to recognize me, the princess, and asked for my name.

My name is Hecate, the Reaper of Tartarus. I am the master of the Tome of Life's End and the Heir to the Sigurd Scythe.

Reaper? Tome of Life's End? You're just throwing out all sorts of new proper nouns.

Just as I thought... You're a visitor from another world.

And what is your name?

I'm Aki. I'm one of the Heirs protecting Orbis from the Archdemon, bound by contract to the Guardian Hanien.

So the beast with the auspicious aura behind you is a Guardian. I can see that your souls are intertwined.

And yet, you are also mixed with something dwelling in your right arm... A dual contract. You are a man of no loyalty.

...Think what you want. So, what brings you to Orbis?

Seeing as you only took down the Archdemon's forces, it doesn't seem like you're hostile to us.

I'm not sure. When I came to my senses, I was already here. I have no specific purpose.

However... even if our worlds differ, surely our taboos do not.

What's that supposed to mean?

I sense a presence that defiles the souls of the dead.

The presence of a blasphemer who raises corpses and desecrates the cycle of life.

It seems I have come to this land to dispose of that being and restore the cycle of life.

Undead... You mean Kayron's Dust Walkers? Heh, I might be able to use this.

Mmm, I know exactly who you're after. That same bastard has been causing me no end of trouble.

Is that true?

Yep. The Acolyte with the power to control corpses, Kayron. All the undead soldiers littered across this battlefield are his handiwork.

Hmm...

Which brings me to my point, princess. How about we form an alliance? Just until we take care of him.

An alliance?

Yes, an alliance.

There's an old saying: "The enemy of my enemy is my friend." We're both after the same guy... so we should be able to help each other, right?

You're going to need a guide in this unfamiliar world, aren't you?

I see... A guide. That is not an unfavorable proposition.

Great, right? Okay, so first things first...

Aki. May I speak with you a moment?

Gah, don't scare me like that!

What is it?

...It's nothing. I just had an itch.

Hanien... didn't I warn you not to use pyrokinesis on me out of the blue?

You're about to forge an alliance with a complete stranger without even consulting me, and you expect me to just stay quiet?

What's the big deal? She looks pretty strong, and she's not hostile to us. If we guide her right, this could work out, don't you think?

You really think things will go that smoothly? We know nothing about her, not even her true intentions.

Just look at these dead rangers lying around. If we play this right, we could get a free...

*drawing scythe*

...Princess? Why are you suddenly drawing your scythe?

Impudent man. I shall now test whether you possess the skill and qualifications to be my ally.

...What? Wait, what did you say?

SWISH!

Argh!

If you don't want to lose a limb, you'd best take your stance. Here I come!

W-Wait a minute! What the hell do you think you're doing?!

AHHH!

*gasping*...

You're rather good. If you had been unsatisfactory, I would have simply taken your soul and been on my way.

You pass. I will accept your offer.

Well, thanks a whole freakin' lot...

Dammit. Is this an aftereffect of going all-out a few months ago...? I'm having trouble controlling my power.

I was sweating bullets, worried I'd accidentally turn my new ally into a pile of ash.

"She's not hostile, it'll be fine," wasn't that what you said?

...Shut up.

Phew, that was too close.

But after trading blows, I can tell. She's pretty damn good. She's going to be an excellent new variable.

Are you really set on dragging her into this?

Well, what? What else do you suggest?

Thanks to Kayron's scheming, we're the only Guardian and Heir left, and Ras isn't even at full strength.

In a situation like this, if we're going to win this Archdemon War, we can't afford to be picky about our methods.

Or... would you rather I just let my remaining power run wild, burn everything to the ground, and end it all?

...No, that's not... what I want.

If you don't have any better ideas, then shut up and follow me. I'm just... desperate to survive, too.

Aki...

...Hmm.

Whoa?!

W-What?!

Having a staring contest right in front of me, and you say, "W-What?!"?

Enough of that. Will you tell me what the plan is?

...First, we're heading back to the village where the supply troops are stationed. We'll plan our infiltration from there.

I've got things to report to the commander here, so until we leave, feel free to rest.

Very well. Inform me when the time comes.

*footsteps*

...So, the pyrokinesis... Pretty sure she noticed, right?

Mmm...

You're in the safe zone now.

Tilo Village, where the supply unit is, is just down this road. I'll be returning to my post now!

Why don't you come with us, grab some water, and rest up a bit?

No, sir! I can't rest while my comrades are still out there working hard!

...Well, okay then. Good work.

Here. Got this from an enemy command post. It's called Revenbol honey-glazed jerky. Take it and share with your squad.

Thank you! It was an honor, sir! To victory!

Right... victory.

*sprinting away*

*sighing*... It's a relief to be away from those sweat-soaked soldiers. For a little while, at least, I'm free from cleaning up their messes.

Hmph. You speak words you do not mean.

Huh?

The way you looked at that soldier... it held the trust of a warrior for his brother-in-arms.

Leaving them behind to exit the battlefield... it could not have been an easy choice.

Hmph. Don't be ridiculous. We just met. There's no hidden meaning. I'm just relieved, like I said.

Now, let's not waste any more time. Let's go and hash out a plan for our next move.

Phew... Looks like that's about all of them.

...

What are you doing, Princess?

I am offering a prayer.

So the souls of the dead do not wander, and may return to the cycle of life.

...Of course, this is not Tartarus. These souls will follow the laws of this land.

It is merely a ritual I perform out of habit. A final solace for the dead.

Heh. The laws of this land, huh?

There is nothing waiting for us after death. Only the sickening repetition of life.

Repetition of life? What do you mean?

It's nothing. Just think of it as a cultural difference.

...

A-Anyway, Hecate. That scythe of yours is really incredible. To think it can purify the undead...

I guess all that talk about being a Reaper wasn't just for show.

Purification? I merely cut that which was moving the corpse.

But... these seemed less like the undead I know, and more like puppets on strings.

What do you mean by that?

It means that whoever is controlling them is using an illusion to make their forces appear to be an army of the undead.

...

Aki?

Foinyx is reacting.

I think Hecate's right. These things aren't Dust Walkers.

SWOOSH...

CHING-

That's...?!

SLASH!

KIINNG...

...So this tiny thing was what was forcing the monsters and villagers' corpses to move. What is it?

A dark spirit... a minion of the Spirit Lord, Noias.

It seems the blasphemer that Hecate is pursuing wasn't Kayron after all.

That's impossible. After they went into seclusion in their hideout on Erasia, all the lesser spirits' activities stopped completely.

There's no way they'd break that long silence just to do something this evil!

But a dark spirit was controlling those corpses. That's a fact.

So drop the "that's impossible" act. We need to assess the situation and respond.

Aki! Are you trying to insult the other Spirit Lords who have fought with us all this time?

Hah, when did I insult them? I'm pointing the finger at Noias, specifically.

People have all kinds of personalities and abilities... Why would Spirit Lords be any different?

That gloomy character didn't lift a finger while the Natalon Continent was in chaos. I'd say my suspicion is perfectly valid.

Aki!

Whoa, what now?

Hecate?

Will you stop chattering and come help?

I sense the presence of the living beneath this wreckage.

There are survivors?

All right, then. Move aside. Heavy lifting is my forte.

Hup...

*shaking*

THUMP!

So a collapsed building was blocking the cellar entrance. ...That's why the people hiding inside were safe.

Ugh...?

Ah... Light...!

Huh? A-Aki?! It's the Inheritor of the Flame, Aki! You came to save us!

*sobbing*... Thank you. We thought we were dead for sure.

W-Well, the lady over there is the one who found you... so thank her.

Ah, yes...

Thank you, Hecate. We were able to save them because of you.

It's nothing worthy of thanks. Pay it no mind.

It is a Reaper's principle to save those whose allotted time is not yet up, if possible.

Still, this is a matter of your world. Perhaps you should pay more attention to your surroundings instead of bickering amongst yourselves?

...We'll keep that in mind.

The m-monsters...?

We wiped out those undead, so don't worry. Burned them all to a crisp so they can't get back up.

Ah... So it wasn't a normal monster attack after all. The rumors were true...

Rumors?

Ah, she's talking about the strange rumors that have been going around for the past few days.

About an undead army attacking villages, or the Ritual Sword of Dun Blyraia choosing its master...

...What? The Ritual Sword of Dun Blyraia?

Tell me more about that, right now!

Urk, Aki... can't... breathe... Grrk.

Uh... Oh?!

Aaaah! Charlie!

For goodness' sake. Control your strength, Aki!

Mmm. It seems he fainted from the sudden exposure to your intense power, given his weakened state.

He'll wake up soon if you let him rest.

You almost extinguished a flame of life you just saved. Be more careful.

...Yeah. I got too excited. My bad.

*sighing*... If you're sorry, go find a place to lay him down. I'll watch over him.

Ugh...

...To make a mistake like that, he's definitely getting desperate.

Or maybe his body's deterioration is getting worse? In any case, I'll need to keep a closer eye on him.

Mmm...

Where... am I?

Oh. You're awake.

Aki...

Eek...

Hmm... Can't say I blame you for being scared. Sorry about yesterday. I got a little worked up.

N-No, sir. It's fine.

I sent a magic signal to a nearby unit while you were asleep. Help should be on the way soon.

They'll search for more survivors in the village, too... All good, right?

They weren't "asleep." They were "unconscious," thanks to a certain someone.

Shut up. Now then... how about we finish our conversation from yesterday?

Huh? What conversation, sir?

You know, about the Ritual Sword choosing its master.

Ah... You mean the "two rumors."

Two Rumors?

Y-Yes, sir. Every traveler who has come through recently spoke of nothing else.

I thought they were just crazy rumors because of how chaotic the world is, but to see it firsthand...

What were these rumors?

...At first, it was just a strange rumor about Angara or Flux corpses attacking people.

It happens sometimes, so no one really paid any attention...

But then, from a certain point on, the rumors changed. It wasn't beasts anymore... it was people.

Before we knew it, they said a "wave of the dead" had started in the northern frontier of Ezera and was consuming everything in its path.

By the time the nearby villages were burning and refugees started pouring in, our village...

What...? You mean attacks like this have happened elsewhere?

Yes. Our village is near the Taranor border, so we were one of the last to be attacked.

We thought our defenses were solid, but for this to happen... *sobbing* I wonder if my family is safe...

Don't worry too much. The village is devastated, but there wasn't many signs of bloodshed.

I'm sure they evacuated somewhere and are waiting for you.

*sobbing*... Thank you, Hanien...

What about the other rumor?

*sniffle*... I'm sorry?

The rumor about the Ritual Sword of Dun Blyraia choosing its master. That's what I asked about.

Ah... Right. Yes, of course.

Er... well, they say the Elbris Ritual Sword, which was sealed in the World Tree of Dun Blyraia, has chosen its master.

I'm not sure of the details... but they say the wielder of that sword was crowned Monarch of the Elves and defeated an Acolyte that invaded Dun Blyraia.

The Elbris Ritual Sword chose a master, and the Elves defeated Nilgal on their own...

Interesting. This variable did not exist before.

...

...

Aki, what are you doing?

Again... Stop yelling in my head! And what about it?

These people just lost their homes and families, and you're basically telling them you don't care about their tragedy and just want information...

I have to prioritize what's more important.

The Elbris Ritual Sword didn't awaken when Dun Blyraia was being destroyed, and when Ritania was being crushed by the Archdemon.

Something that has never once happened in any of the past Restored Worlds is happening right now.

Don't you understand how bizarre and suspicious this is?

And it's not like the dead are coming back to life, so why do I have to stand here and listen to that guy whine?

Aki!

...? Why are they just glaring at each other without a word?

They did the same thing in front of me earlier. Pay it no mind.

So, is there anything else you can tell us?

No... I'm sorry, but what I just told you is all I know.

The person who told me the rumor hadn't seen it himself, either. He just heard it while passing by Dun Blyraia.

...Hmm. Still, it's worth checking out.

We need to go to Dun Blyraia now and get info on that sword. Let's go, Hanien.

...What about the shadow monsters? They're attacking people, aren't you going to stop them?

No. The Archdemon War is right around the corner. I don't have time to investigate a disturbance in the Ezera frontier.

Besides, since it's a Spirit Lord and not Kayron, Ruele must have already sensed it.

Ras or Vildred will probably lead the Order of the Sword to take care of it. It'll be resolved soon enough.

But... all the innocent people who will be sacrificed in the meantime...

Let's get our priorities straight. Is it more important for me to run around and save a few more people?

My power is running out. Even if I did run into that shadow army, I don't have the strength to waste on burning it.

Right now, checking on this new variable in Dun Blyraia is the top priority.

If you're still going to be stubborn after all this explanation, then let's just go our separate ways. How about it?

...No, I'll follow your decision.

Good. Then, princess? You'll also...

Gwoo...

...

Hecate?

I sense the presence that twists the cycle of life.

It's close... This way.

...! Hey, wait! Don't just run off on your own!

Where are you... Dammit, that's the complete opposite direction from Dun Blyraia!

...

I-It's dangerous to go alone, Hecate! I'll go with you!

Hanien? What do you think you're...

Woooshhh...

...

Sigh... You've all got to be kidding me. ...I have no choice.

Hey! Wait up! I'm coming with you!

*sprinting*

...

...

...What about us? Should we follow them?

Are you crazy? Aki said reinforcements are coming. We should hide here and wait.

R-Right. Of course.

*huff...huff...*

Hey! What do you think you're doing, running off like that?!

...Aki.

Huh? Wait, why is the forest on fire here? Don't tell me...

Yes... It seems all the nearby villages have been hit.

I sense an unsettling energy from the path ahead.

Let's see... this is south of Tilo Village, where the supply unit was... So the one up ahead must be Oldo Village.

...You two are going to Oldo Village even if I tell you not to, aren't you?

I told you from the beginning that I came to this land to pursue the one who twists the cycle of life.

Now that I know the culprit isn't this Kayron you mentioned, you'd have no grounds to object if I were to dissolve our alliance here and now.

Hanien, what about you? You said you would follow my decision.

...Since we've come this far anyway, why don't we check on the state of Oldo Village?

If the being Hecate seeks... the one who commands dark spirits is in that village...

Then perhaps after she completes her mission, we can still receive her help in defeating Kayron. Right?

Of course. I will gladly cooperate in the elimination of blasphemers.

*sighing* Fine. Do whatever you want. Let's go take a look.

But if I feel like we're wasting too much time, I'm heading to Dun Blyraia, even if it means going alone. Got it?

...Just as I thought. This place is devastated, too.

But unlike Tilo Village, this whole place is completely empty.

...

Hanien?

...There might be survivors. We should at least search.

Even if it's a hick town, how are we supposed to search the whole place? Let's not waste time...

Ugh...?

Ah... Light...!

Huh? A-Aki?! It's the Inheritor of the Flame, Aki! You came to save us!

*sobbing*... Thank you. We thought we were dead for sure.

Ugh.

Fine. I'll help. Let's split up and search.

Huh? What's gotten into you, saying something so noble...?

...Just because I've been a bit impatient lately, you think I'm a total jerk now?

This sort of thing was always my expertise, remember?

That... is true. I'm sorry.

Oh? Since arriving in this world, I have only seen you complain. It seems you were different in the past?

Well, up until a few months ago, I was involved in relief efforts.

Though, to me, it feels like ages ago. It's all a bit hazy.

Aki...

Anyway, let's get moving instead of chatting.

I'll sweep from here to the square. You two check the ranch area.

Okay. Leave it to us! Let's go, Hecate!

Hmm... That area seems easier, but I suppose I have no choice.

Hanien, Hecate! Come here! I found survivors!

...A cauldron?

Is this... Are you real? Am I seeing things again?

Wow, a doggy!

*hugging*

That's right, the doggy's here, so you can relax now.

Ah... It's real. Thank you. The Goddess has answered my prayers...!

What happened here? Was this village attacked by shadow monsters too?

...Yes. The rumored army of living corpses attacked the village.

Our neighbors who fell to those monsters... immediately rose again as monsters themselves.

Just like that, the entire village became a scene of chaos in an instant.

I happened to be in the kitchen with my child when the attack began...

...so I quickly hid in the cauldron and managed to survive.

So the dead became part of them... I see. That's why the village was empty.

...Though it was not our original intent, we are pursuing them. Do you happen to know which way they departed?

Well... actually...

While I was inside the cauldron... the lid opened, and I met her eyes. Yes.

Th-That girl... she stared at me, at my child, with dead, empty eyes.

And then, she reached out her hand... her haaaand...

...Huh? Wait, what's wrong with her?

No, the Black Wolf might come back. We have to hide...

We have to hide in the cauldron. My child, hurry, quickly...

Mommy...?

Oh dear, she's delirious. We need to separate her from the child...

S-Stay back! Get your hands away from me!

Hmm.

*clenching*

Aaaargh!!! No! Stop!!!

The Wolf is coming! The Black Wolf is coming to eat us all!

Ugh, ngh, uuuugh!

*tightens grip*

Hey, pull yourself together! You'll fall over!

OhmostmercifulKingofKingsdarknessbornfromthestar'scorpsewhocrawledinthemireandyettoreopenyourbellytofeedusrottenworms

Ibeseechyoutemptnotmyignorantandfoolishselfbutveilthewickedandhideoustruthinradiantdarknessandgrantmetheblessedignorance

IfyoudosoIshalloffermyhumblebodytofattenyourarmiesandsoIpray...

Jeez, what's she rambling about? Can't make out a single word. No good. I'll have to put her to sleep for a bit.

Grk...

Waaah, Mommy...

Aki! What was that for?!

What now? Better to knock her out than let her bite her tongue off during a fit!

It's your methods that are the problem! Just like in Tilo Village... Why are you always so reckless?

Ugh, stop nagging... Hanien. For now...

Huh?

What was that? What just flew by?

This is... an arrow?

Halt! You are surrounded!

Put your hands above your heads and kneel!

...Huh?

CRACK...

SNAP!

A-Arghh!

*thud*

Kgh...

That style of armor... I haven't seen it nearby. You must be an enemy.

You're the ones who brought the shadow army that attacked this village, aren't you?

I'll just give you a light scorching until you confess who sent you.

Wait, Aki. Something's been bothering me... I sense a familiar energy from this person.

Huh?

Let me take a look. Now, let's see...

Huh? This is... the energy of the World Tree?

Are you an Elf from Dun Blyraia?

...! W-Wait. You're... the Guardian Hanien?

Th-Then the one beside you must be... the Inheritor of the Flame! A Guardian and an Heir!

I apologize! I'd only heard stories, I'd never seen you in person...

Haven't we visited Dun Blyraia in this Restored World?

Nope. Never got any real help from them before, so they were way down on my priority list.

I only intended to visit once word came that Nilgal had attacked.

I see... Well, since you didn't know, I'll let it slide.

But for Elves to raise an army and leave Dun Blyraia... what in the Orbis is going on?

Our Monarch, chosen by the Elbris Ritual Sword, has commanded it.

She has permitted the dispatch of troops outside Dun Blyraia to stop the Shadow Army threatening Ritania.

Just as the rumors said... So the master of the sword really has appeared.

...Wait a second.

If you knew it was shadow monsters attacking the village, why did you attack me?

...I thought you were a bandit attacking the villagers. I apologize.

...

You do look rather... intimidating.

Pfft......Hm? Wait.

It feels strange saying this myself, but don't I have a rather distinctive appearance too?

I was right beside him, yet you mistook Aki for a bandit? Something's strange.

W-Well, Hanien, perhaps due to the dust and smoke, your fur has turned from gray to nearly black...

...I thought you were some kind of giant Angara that bandits ride...

...

My, what an overly honest soldier.

A-Anyway, it seems you also sensed the Shadow Army's attack and came to help, Aki.

Since you've come this far, I will escort you to our army's encampment. Our liege will be pleased to meet you.

All right. Lead the way.

Ah, by the way, who ended up being the Monarch of the Elves chosen by the ritual sword? Was it the Elder, Saria?

No. It is Iseria of the Arisphodel family.

...That innocent lady?

Hmm. I'll have to meet her before I can judge. Lead on.

Ah... But before that, help me with the child and the woman here.

...Yes, understood.

...

...

This way. Please follow me.

Oh... So the Elves of the forest really have led an army out on an expedition. I've never seen anything like it.

Yeah. These bastards even had 16-person tents!

Every Archdemon War, they just send an Elder and a few guards and act like they've done so much. Turns out they can manage a large-scale deployment.

...

Hey, princess. You don't look so good... Something wrong?

Mmm... Pay it no mind. I was just a little shocked, that's all.

So this world also has Alfrs and sacred trees. The names were different, so I didn't realize.

Oh... So your homeland had these tree-worshippers too?

Yes. And in my royal family, we have a maxim: "Pointy-ears are not to be trusted, so do not associate with them."

...Is that really a maxim?

We have arrived. Please, come inside.

Welcome, everyone.

I am Saria, an Elder leading the Dun Blyraia forces, inadequate though I may be.

And this is our monarch, the leader chosen by the Elbris Ritual Sword... Iseria.

...Wel, come... every... one.

To meet the, f-famous Inheritor... of the Flame, and his Guardian in person... is an h-honor.

A-And the one... beside you is...?

...I am Hecate, Princess of Tartarus.

H-Hmm. Tartarus... A k-kingdom I have not heard of.

I am ashamed... U-Until now, I have paid little heed to the world beyond Dun Blyraia.

A b-banquet... has been prepared. Perhaps we could dine and speak... Urgh...!

*cracking*

...! Oh no, Iseria! Are you all right? You're still not well enough to move...

N-No. This is nothing... It's fine. More importantly...

Mmm, kh, cough!

*collapses*

I-Iseria? Iseria!

Is she okay? Should I help her up...?

Stay back!!!

...?

Iseria? Answer me... Iseria!

S-Saria. I'm... I'm a-all right... Our guests...

...*sighing*...

*stands up*

...My apologies for that unsightly display. Her Majesty appears to be somewhat fatigued.

She must have overexerted herself annihilating shadow monsters on the way here.

Everyone. I know you must have many questions, but I will arrange another audience for tomorrow.

For today, please enjoy the prepared banquet and rest well.

...All right. We'll do that.

Then, please follow the soldier's guidance to the banquet hall. I shall take my leave now.

Soldier, escort our guests to the banquet hall. I will attend to Her Majesty.

Yes! Understood!

Just now... What was that...?

She is being consumed by the ritual sword in her hand. Her body cannot handle the power. It's shattering.

...This is very different from what I expected. I'll need to keep an eye on this situation.

It is an honor to escort you, Heir! I shall lead you to the banquet hall!

...Hmm.

Aki?

...It's nothing. Let's go.

By the way, this won't be like my last visit to Dun Blyraia, will it? Nothing but leaves and grass?

For your information, Hanien here eats only meat.

I-Is that so?

Wh-What are you suddenly accusing me of?

I like vegetables too! ...Though, if there's meat, well, that's even better.

...

Hey, princess. You coming?

I hope they have silver utensils prepared. I find the Alfr rather suspicious.

Oh yeah? Well, don't worry. If they don't, you can borrow mine.

Oh? You carry such old-fashioned tableware? It doesn't suit your appearance.

Comes in handy for work sometimes. Poison doesn't work on me, but it's good for intimidation.

...I see.

I have quite a few suspicions myself... but it's too late to back out now.

So let's just eat our fill and get some rest. For tomorrow.

Yes... For tomorrow.