Side Story 3

Hoho!! Clear the way for greatness incarnate!

Hah! So this is the Human God's Sanctuary! Magnificent, resplendent! Worthy of one who stands above mere mortals! Ahh, how sweet is the scent of authority!

Tch, how vexing…

Have my efforts truly left so little impression, that you've already forgotten? I told you before, did I not?

My ambition, my destiny.

I, Kalma, shall be the next President of the Federation!

Heh… even a Human God falters when faced with someone like me. That look on your face gives you away.

So let me be direct, the reason I've come here is...

Stop right there!!!

Tch…

I finally caught you! Just what do you think you're doing?! I practically begged for you to get an audience with the Human God...

and you repay me by breaking the elevator, sprinting off,

leaving me half-dead climbing stairs to chase you here?!

Hah! Now that I've met the Human God, I've no use for gnats. You were nothing but a rung on the ladder to reach him.

Unbelievable! Who even says that out loud, like it's something to be proud of?!

I am fated to be...

Enough! Human God, I'll explain everything. And you, if you interrupt me one more time, I'll call security and have you thrown out!

…Tch.

Ahem. Human God, as you're aware, this is Ms. Kalma. A Kesak shaman originating from the planet Lamora.

She's heir to one of the three great clans back home. Say what you will, her skill in battle is undeniable.

Hah! None can withstand the thunder I wield!

Shush! Then, out of nowhere, she claimed she had to meet you as her people's representative. With how formidable her kind are, a few of them are actually Vanguard candidates...

But rules are rules. Even a Vanguard doesn't just stroll into the Sanctuary without your permission.

I bent the rules to grant her an audience, and what does she do?

Yes, yes, bygones and all that. Now then, let us move on to matters truly worthy of the Human God!

Cut me off again and you're out! Where was I… right. She fried the elevator with lightning and bolted up the stairs like a madwoman!

I was this close to filing terrorism charges!

Hoho! As expected of one so great, you know the difference between gnats and the destined!

My request is simple. A village lies abandoned, overrun by Abominations. I want your help to sweep them aside.

W-wait, just like that?!

A future President must ensure the people have homes to return to. It is my solemn duty.

Hmph… sounds too convenient.

By now, you must've noticed it too, right? The Kesak are… odd.

That's just it, Kalma's being too normal. I've never once heard a Kesak say anything that made sense.

Fufufu… the place is called Pyeonghwari, near Kaesong. Once fertile farmland, good harvests, plenty of food. Important for supplies, don't you think?

I thought it would make a fine settlement for my kin.

And if you aid us, Human God, more of my people will surely rally to your banner.

See? That's exactly what's strange. She's making too much sense. I don't trust it.

Very well. If you're fine with it, Human God…

Might be worth making the Kesak owe us a favor.

Hahaha! Excellent! Even the small fry speaks wisdom! A truly splendid decision!

Ugh… now I suddenly don't want to go along with it.

…Anyway, I'll get the Vanguards prepared. Just give the word when you're ready, Human God.

Kukukuku…

I'm running myself ragged, and you're just loitering here? And that laugh, why does it sound so irritating?

Kukuku… the small fry has arrived. I was admiring my village.

Your village? What nonsense is that supposed to be?

And quit laughing like that!

Fufufu… as its sole resident, it is only right that I rejoice!

???

Ms. Kalma, you don't even live here.

Hah! In the Federation's west, there exists a most convenient custom, residency fraud. I made excellent use of it.

You what?! You faked your residency?! That's a crime!

Some may call it so… but I, in my brilliance, pulled it off without a hitch. Kukukuku… pathetic peasants.

…Ah! Blast it, Korabi told me to keep that part a secret…

Did you just… confess? Or was that bragging? Or are you just plain stupid?

And who on earth is this Korabi now?!

…Right now, Officer Yeon seems too busy to notice, but if she does, it's gonna be trouble.

And honestly, what's the point of faking residency in a place that's abandoned?

Fufufu… so, you're probing for the grand design behind my path to the presidency? I won't be tricked by such cheap tactics. Do not mistake me for some ordinary Kesak.

…Human God. She's an idiot, isn't she? She just confessed all on her own. No one even questioned her.

Tch… I've already said too much. I'll be going. Any more, and it might obstruct my rise to power.

Kukukuku…

…

You know what? Forget it. The more I think about this, the worse it is for me.

Back to work.

At last… it is time to reclaim the village hall, soon to be my seat of power!

Your seat of power? What are you even talking about?

And just so we're clear, the Federation is a democracy. You do get that, right?

Fufufufu… but of course, small fry.

I am destined to be President of the Federation. Naturally, I understand democracy.

And I've already taken my very first step down that noble path.

…What did you do this time?

Hahaha! Why keep it a secret?

I am already the village chief.

A perfect election, 100% turnout, 100% of the vote!

Don't tell me… you pulled that fake residency trick again. And then held an election… by yourself?!

Kukuku… exactly. I am now the sole resident and the rightful head of Pyeonghwari.

From here begins a grand design...

a design that will raise me to the very peak of this nation…and in the end… make me PRESIDENT!

That's insane! How do you jump from this rundown village to the presidency?!

Tsk, tsk… such narrow vision. Climb one step at a time, and there is no summit too high.

Aghhh! Why is it that the only time you sound logical, is when it drives me crazy?!

From your perspective too, Human God, this is hardly a loss.

After all, you gain the privilege of having a village chief under your command.

…You do know being a village chief isn't exactly real power, right?

Ha! This democracy of yours, what a glorious system! Kyahahahaha!

…She's not listening to a word.

Very well, Human God. I shall scout ahead.

I wish to behold the village hall that will soon serve as my seat of rule.

…

Whatever. For now, let's just deal with the Abominations.

And if things get out of hand, we can always ask Officer Matsumoto or Officer Yeon what to do.

It's not like letting an off-worlder play village chief is going to end the world…

Fufufu… the first step of my glorious ascent is complete!

From village chief… I shall rise, step by step, until I am President!

Seriously? Only you could dream that big after becoming a village chief.

Fear not, Human God! Kalma is nothing if not loyal. I'll never forget the aid you've given me.

And when the day comes that I claim the presidency, this Federation shall worship you as its one true God!

…Yeah, no, that's literally dictatorship.

Hmph, details! With majority rule, it will sort itself out. Politics is simple, really!

…You might honestly be the worst candidate for President.

Enough of this! Back to work! For now, I am the sovereign of this village!

Now she's openly gunning for monarchy. Let's just hope the Bureau doesn't get dragged into this circus.

Who knows where this will end…

Human God, Human God! Did you hear the news?

Remember what I told you before? About the city beneath the Sky Vault?

Something good! Really good news!

The barrier construction in Wonsan is finally complete, and resettlement ships have gone in! It's the first time we've managed to reclaim a city that large!

Hehe. We should go visit sometime! There's even a new branch of Meat Punch…

Such a trip cannot proceed without me!

Eh?! What's going on here? Ms. Kalma! You're out and about?

We were getting worried, you've been cooped up in your room all this time!

Hah! As if I'd wallow over something so trivial! With Korabi as my right hand, I rise anew!

…You almost had my sympathy when you were down. Now you're just insufferable as always...

Ms. Korabi! Are you really her so-called "right hand"?

U-uh… maybe? …Maybe not?

I knew it. She just dragged you out here, didn't she? If she bullies you, say the word, I'll report her to Officer Yeon!

Hahaha! Enough of this petty talk! I bring the Human God an offer too great to refuse!

Uh-oh… that already sounds shady…

I-it's not… entirely shady…

Why hide it? At the merchants' request, I now command a private force to guard them!

Ms. Kalma, hush! And a "private force"? That's a federal crime!

Then I'll just change the law, once I'm president!

For now, how about you follow it!

W-well… technically, it's more like… the merchants' guild picked her to join their neighborhood watch…

Oh, so that's it. You mean those old guys who walk around in pairs at night?

Ha! Good luck with that~!

Fufufu...

That laugh… I don't like where this is going.

W-well… the thing is… things kind of got out of hand…

Fine, then! I'll speak without restraint, my Village Guard has claimed the right to clear the tunnels of Wonsan!

What?! That's the last thing you should be bragging about! And why the tunnels, of all things?!

It was just routine patrols at first, but then… well… The Chieftain showed up to the recruitment in, um… a rather "unusual" outfit…

…Yeah, I don't want to know. I'm sure it was absurd.

Ho! Then I shall wear it again! A magnificent suit, perfectly befitting me!

Would you, for once, just listen!

More importantly, how do a bunch of watchmen end up storming the tunnels?!

W-well… when the volunteers saw Ms. Kalma, I think they realized something was very wrong… So they all walked out…

Which left me as the sole member of the Guard! Though of course, Korabi soon joined me with great joy!

Ms. Korabi… if she forced you in any way, you can say so right now.

…….

Sigh… So let me guess, you ended up alone, crowned yourself captain, and decided to clear the tunnels by yourself.

Fine. We'll just cancel this nonsense before it goes any further.

U-um… the problem is… it already has gone further…

Further?! How could it possibly get worse?!!

The merchants wanted the tunnels opened up since the land down there is cheap! So I promised them, since I have warrior allies, I'd clear even more of it for them!

…For heaven's sake. Just tell them it's not possible.

Too late! To steel the faint of heart, I've already posted banners all over Wonsan! "Kalma and Friends, Slayers of the Wonsan Tunnels!"

We just finished putting up the fiftieth one…

And I put your name right at the very top, lowly gnat, with rank included! Isn't that exciting?

Exciting?! As if!!

Ugh… slapping an officer's name on it like that…

…I'm sorryyy… I didn't think it would go this far…

Nghhh… well, I suppose you just got dragged into this by Ms. Kalma, so…

Uh...

Um… actually… it was me who first suggested posting a watch patrol notice, to cheer her up…

You were an accomplice?!!

No, this is bad! If this keeps up, there'll be disciplinary action… Officer Yeon's wrath…!

Kukukukuku… Worry not!

That's easy for you to say! How are you planning to clean up this mess?!

Simple. We say the Human God ordered it, and your superiors won't bat an eye!

That's fraud!

Not if we truly purge the tunnels. Then it becomes fact.

Well...

Oof..

Didn't expect anything less from you, Human God!

…….

I… appreciate you doing this, Human God, but… nghhh…

Yes… just say the word, Human God…

On behalf of the Vanguards, I'm sorry for all the trouble…

Kukuku… at last, my glorious career begins anew.

…….

Well, that's that. Everything in the tunnels is cleared out, except the sealed zones.

But you know what really makes me mad?

Kalma's banners!! She told me my name would be up there, but when you zoom in, nothing!

And instead she just scribbled "Shrimp Officer"! If I'd known that, I wouldn't have bothered pushing myself to sortie!

I really thought my name was actually written there…

Ngh… I didn't mean for you to actually comfort me, Human God…

Heh...

…….

Hehehe…

Nghhh… I'm getting mad again… I know I shouldn't… Sigh… Ms. Kalma? What's with that laugh… you're making me uneasy…

Insolent shrimp! From this moment on, address me as Kalka! That is my true name!

…What now?

W-well… her real name actually is Kalka…

Huh? What does that even mean?

In our people's tradition, the number of "K" sounds in one's name marks their rank… When Chieftain Kalka's clan fell, she lost her heirship and renamed herself Kalma…

Hmph… humiliating years, those were. But now I stand as a warlord, fit once again to bear two "K's" in my name!

And one day, when I ascend to the presidency… I shall become Kalkaka!

That name is awful!

And a warlord? Don't you dare drag this country into civil war, abominations are bad enough already!

Tch… as if a shrimp like you could grasp the majesty of my name. You're just a lowly soldier!

Okay, that's it! Enough is enough!! And what kind of "warlord" only has Ms. Korabi as her one follower?!

Tsk-tsk… clearly you fail to see the left hand standing right before you.

Left Hand. Present.

Huh? Wait, Ms. Cora, why are you suddenly…?

Her name bears a "K," and she wields decent sorcery. So I claimed her as my left hand. Heh-heh-heh…

I… I thought maybe this time I'd finally get to step down from being the right hand…

No, seriously… why are you sticking with her, Ms. Cora? And doesn't your name start with C, not K?!

Looked fun.

…Well… if you don't get dragged in too deep, I guess it could look that way…

As for me… I still can't make sense of what she's thinking most of the time…

I feel that. …Wait, does that mean I should be glad I'm not one of her "hands"?

Tch. Hardly. You're unworthy, shrimp. If you truly wish to serve me, change your name to Ka-young and return!

No thanks! Wait, hold on! Ms. Kalma? You actually knew my name?!

Do you take me for an idiot? Of course I knew.

Then why, on the banner, was I "Shrimp Officer"?!

Ah… well… when I said I didn't know your name… Chieftain Kalka told me to just write that down…

…Okay, now I'm starting to get mad at you too, Ms. Korabi.

If it's entertaining, it's fine.

…Ugh, I can't with you people. So what is it this time?

Well… Chieftain Kalka's supposed to receive a letter of thanks from the merchants' guild for the purge…

But they addressed it to "Kalma," so… she's filing to change her name back!

Immediately! This disgrace cannot stand!

Ha! You think name changes are that easy in the Federation?

You've got to petition the court and wait for a ruling. Hehe… Got it? Ms. Kal'ma'?

Nghhh! Damn it… Unless… perhaps with the Human God's authority…

The Human God's identity is still classified. You know that's impossible, right?

Tch...

Human God, let's just go. Even when we win, being dragged into her antics is exhausting.

Oof..

…I really don't want that…

Honestly, I've thought about just changing my name to Morabi instead…

A-and even my work at the hospital… It's because I figured our people would never come in for treatment…

N-no?

Chieftain Kalka is actually very gentle, for our people, at least…

It's more that… Chieftain Kalka and Ms. Left Hand Cora… Their outfits today are so embarrassing, I didn't want to be seen with them.

…Well…

They said it's meant to show they've got nothing to hide… That's why they dress that way…

But compared to what they usually wear, it's even more embarrassing…

What's this! My right hand, my brilliant strategist, why would you skip a day as glorious as this?

I'm the right hand now.

Hah! Not even you, 'K'ora, can claim that seat yet! Korabi still holds it by merit.

Disappointing.

Regardless, today is a day to celebrate! With the merchants' recognition, this Kalka now stands as a true warlord!

Uhmm...

Human God, surely you've noticed Korabi only ever wears that hospital garb.

She hides her face too, clearly ashamed of not owning finer clothes!

That's not why I cover my face...

Fear not! Once I'm president, my right hand will never lack for clothing...

Human God!!! What is this, ugh! Kesak! Here of all places?!

Human God! Explain! Why are those Kesak receiving a letter of thanks?!

Kukukuku… Because those with money know how to recognize true worth.

M-maybe don't describe the kind merchants like that…

Nghh… as I thought. Those who handle money are always the same…

…….

Matrotho's entertaining too.

Human God! I won't let the Kesak flaunt themselves like this! Wait here! I'll tell the merchants we Lamorans will clear the rest of the tunnels ourselves!

We'll prove we're far stronger than these Kesak curs!

So… another sortie, then.

…….

Hehh… This is what they call… positive influence!

Time to ready ourselves again.

Uh… this really feels like it's spiraling out of control…

......

First, I'll address the unauthorized expedition that took place in my absence later.

Oh! As expected of one so high above! Not like that shrimp! Truly magnanimous!

Shut it, idiot!

Silence! Later does not mean forgiven.

Figures…

Hah! If it's praise, then I...

I'll be direct. You two, why did you rush the front lines?

Do you realize how much harder everyone else had to work to keep formation?

But the thrill of battle was...

That Kesak bolted ahead first! I just followed! Not my fault!

…I know words of duty mean nothing to you, so I'll say this instead.

If it happens again, you will regret it.

Don't you get it?

Ugh...

Yes, sir!

My apologies, Human God, for raising my voice in your presence.

With the field secured, I advise you return for now.

I am sorry for troubling you further when you must already be weary.

I gave clear orders.

Do not rush ahead of the others.

I bear no fault! The enemy was there, so I struck first! For glory!

…….

It's on me… She charged, and I just… followed without thinking…

Spare me the excuses.

I warned you both there would be consequences.

Hmph… This Kalka does not flee. A future president does not shirk responsibility!

Kalka? No, you'll be going back to Kalma.

What?! What are you saying? I am...

I've already spoken with the Merchants' Guild.

From now on, the Bureau's Intelligence Division will oversee security here.

Wh-what?! No… you can't!

And for the record, I will be serving as captain of the Wonsan Merchant Watch.

With the state stepping in, the guild was all too eager to agree.

N-no! Impossible! After everything I did to reach this post…!

And you, Ms. Matrotho?

I'll behave from now on, I swear!

…At least you weren't the first to charge. And I'm aware of the animosity between the Kesak and the Lamora. So this time, it will remain a warning.

Ms. Osla, Ms. Matrotho, Ms. Erneste, Ms. Pantheri… Do you know the nickname people have given the four of you?

The four beauties?

The Four Troublemakers... Keep in mind why that title was earned, and act in a way that befits it.

What a magnificent title! Yes, perfect for...

Tsk!!

…….

H-hold on! You're putting me in the same bracket as those guys...

Four of you. One group. Remember it.

Now, both of you, assist with securing the battlefield.

Ugh...

......

My apologies. Had I been harsher, they might have paused to regroup first.

From here on, I'll enforce stricter discipline.

Ta-dah.

Nghhh… This outfit is so humiliating…

One problem after another… Just what are those ridiculous outfits supposed to be?

Ms.ion accomplished! As ordered by the Human God!

Haa… bleak as things were, at least this managed to lift our spirits.

Styled as a hero costume, just as the Human God specified.

Allows Korabi to show her face while keeping contact with others to a minimum.

Perfect. Now we just send the draft to production, and the Human God can purchase anytime!

…I was aware of the Human God's tastes, but still…

Such flawless design… I envy it. If only I had a striking costume of my own…

U-um… what do you think? It's the design you suggested, Human God…

Sigh… swift to act, aren't you.

Tonight, we'll have much to discuss.

Oh, Nymset... do you even know what that is?

Why do you think I wouldn't know? I heard it from the sisters too. We should start getting ready as well.

And besides, it's the church's treasure. We have to find it.

Well, that's true... but do we really have to be the ones doing this? It's not even something we need to find...

Nope, the head nun said if we get the church's treasure back, we'd get a chance to check it out.

I need to find it.

We're the ones trained for this kind of thing. If it's about the church's treasure, we should be the ones handling it.

... You're not really doing this just for that, are you?

Ah, Human God?

Human God? Oh! So That person is the Human God?

Calling him "that person"? To the Human God, of all people!

Hah! I'm totally against the goddess marrying the Human God!

I'm not one of the Human God's followers yet.

If we manage to resolve this... I could, perhaps, see myself taking on the role of a vanguard... but only if it suits me.

Oh dear… You are too…

The sisters told me... you've got to have some pride as a woman. If you keep giving in to everything, they'll get sick of you real quick.

I read it in that novel yesterday. The heroine was being too nice, and her husband went and cheated on her...

... Trying to learn about love from those ridiculous romance novels...

... Where should I even begin?

So... one of our church's treasures got stolen... Nymset came here because she wants to find it.

Hmm... yeah... it's just one of those treasures handed down in our church.

I'm sorry... it's just a bit awkward to explain what it is...

Huh? I'm offering to be your vanguard, you know. Are you seriously gonna refuse?

That's odd. The sisters said guys always help out when you say it like this...

Which sister told you that...?

Ah, here you are. I must say, you moved faster than I thought.

Obviously! There's no use in dragging your feet. If you think of something, just go for it!

... Could it be that the sister who said that...

More importantly, Priestess Nymset, about the item you're looking for...

I don't know. It's kind of awkward to talk about... But still, the Human God says he won't help?

Do I have to be harsher with what I say?

Hey, Human God. I'm a priestess, same as Bella, but my combat training is nothing like hers.

If you help me even now, I might just agree to be your vanguard... as a special favor.

Heh. Love always needs a bit of push and pull, doesn't it?

Didn't she says that too?

Huh? Really?

...really...

Fufu.

To the Human God, I declare.

The treasure that Priestess Nymset spoke of cannot be revealed right now, but it is a priceless artifact of the Split Twigs Church. I humbly ask for your help in retrieving it.

With that grace, the talented Priestess Nymset will surely respond.

Whoa... do you have to go that far just to pull him in?

Yep, you have to be decisive when pulling him in.

Okay, Priestess Nymset, now it's your turn to try.

Oh? I wasn't planning on pulling him in...

Priestess Nymset is quite charming, so adding a touch of cuteness would be great.

Mhm…?

Heh... what can I say... I am cute, after all...

Hewman God? It'sh me...

…

Wow!!!!! Sis, you were spot on! The effect is amazing!

Of course. HooHoo.

Human God, Human God. I figured out where it is!

Was it called the Savers?

When they stole our treasure and tried to escape, they ran off towards Ascension Path.

I'm sure we'll find the treasure if we go through these tunnels.

Let's hurry and go. I'll get ready!

Sister Lisandria, please don't teach innocent Nymset weird things.

Nymset believes anything anyone says.

Heh, that's what makes her so adorable, don't you think?

Enough to make you feel a tiny bit of excitement.

Very well, Human God. I shall begin my preparations now.

... How will it end up?

Well... Originally, the idea was to bring the talented Priestess Nymset into the Vanguard...

Looking back, it all got way out of hand.

I thought it would be easy to find...

Honestly... Freude Braout isn't even that important...

It would definitely be helpful if we got it, but...

Even if we don't get it, it's not really something the Human God needs to be concerned about. Actually, it might be better if the Human God never knew about it at all if we fail to obtain it.

Heh...

Tsk... Human God, now what? They say they don't have it...

Plus, that Bishop of Hidden Arts isn't around...

Come on, Nymset, you need to thank the Human God for helping out before anything else.

And besides, that book isn't even all that important...

No way! They said it was a really important book!

Oh, right! The sisters said Bella doesn't like it since she's never had any experience with guys, right?

Bella, you're not thinking about marriage yet, are you?

…

Huh? You've got a cold? Quickly, use a healing spell!

No, that's not it.

Oh, really? Well, if you say so.

Anyway, Human God. For now, I'll gather some more information. We absolutely need to find Freude Braout.

Just wait a moment!

Isn't she really cute?

Really... is that what happened?

I did have a feeling they were in a hurry to deal with the remnants.

I've heard about Ms. Nymset before.

Among the young priestesses of the Split Twigs, it is said that Ms. Bella is also vying for the lead.

It seems that Ms. Lisandria, who rarely hang out with people, ended up involving Ms. Nymset.

However, I haven't heard anything about this so-called Freude Braout.

I do have a few ideas, though...

For reasons unknown, the Empire of Noctis Nebula uses a modified form of German.

The changes in articles and cases are a bit distinct, but it's clear the Empire is somehow related to the Germany of the past.

When it comes to Freude Braout... I'd write it this way in modern German.

Freude der Braut

It means "the joy of the bride."

Considering that Split Twigs priestesses are allowed to marry after retirement...

I think it might be related to that.

I can't say I know for sure. But if I were to make a guess... since they're not even afraid of castration...

Perhaps they consider normal sexual views to be forbidden...

Also... if it's really that taboo... They said it was sealed, so it's pretty clear where they would have hidden it, right?

Yes, I think so too. They're probably trying to hide it in the Skyvault.

Maybe the timing was wrong, and that's why we couldn't find it during the last expedition...

Hey, Human God! I think we need to go after Freude Braout.

Hmm... I don't know?

Well, if we keep attacking those Savers thugs, it'll probably turn up, right?

Freude Braout is probably in the Skyvault.

Huh? Really? Wait! But who are you?

Quite rude, Ms. Nymset. I am Yeon Chae-young, the First Advisor to the Human God.

Oh! Is that so? Alright, let's push the Human God together.

You said... Push?

Don't know what "pushing" is? Hmm... Oh! You've never had a relationship, right? I heard people who've always been single don't really understand how push-and-pull works.

... I haven't felt this insulted since Osla or Erneste.

... Anyway, it looks like Freude Braout is somewhere near the Skyvault... But it's up to the Human God to decide whether we proceed with the expedition.

So we need to push, right? Ah... wait, maybe we need to pull?

Oh! I pushed just once and you're already giving in? You're an easy guy, huh?

…

Once the Human God decides, I'll get ready right away.

Oh! Yeon Chae-young? Seems like a cool sister. Alright! I'm in to help!

... I'll go ahead and start preparing. When you're ready for the expedition, just give the order.

I told you, I'm gonna help too!

Great! There it is!

…

Hoohoo... finally found it. Now, It's ready.

Well, I'm not sure... Is it okay to talk about this?

It's a book that the priestess sisters study before they return to secular life...

I don't know what it's about.

Seriously... you went all out to get it, and you don't even know what it's about?

Lisandria told me that if I want to get married, I need to find this.

Even though it's hard right now, I'll eventually rejoin secular life and get married.

...really...

Excellent. Now, you do remember the promise, right?

You know, a good woman keeps her word, don't you?

Of course. I always keep my promises. But... what promise, exactly?

The promise to serve the Human God as a Vanguard.

Ah! Heh heh... You better appreciate it... This Nymset will serve as a Vanguard for the Human God.

... Where did she learn that tone and attitude?

It's something I read a lot in Earth literature... I thought it'd fit Priestess Nymset nicely. Isn't it cute?

I'm just getting angry...

I think the Human God would find it cute.

Alright then... let's go over the loot now...

Eek!!!!

Hoohoo... As just a mere nun, I've never seen it before... but now...

Oh my! This is about how to 'love' multiple wives at the same time...

... I see... even a position like this...

Wh-whaaaaaaat... Th-this book is...

Whew....

We priestesses don't really know about these 'Things', so it's a book meant to teach us before we leave the church.

I-I-I... I'm not interested in stuff like this...

Aww, Priestess Nymset is just so adorably naive.

... Sister Lisandria, that's just mean. Tricking poor Nymset like that...

Hoohoo... Is that so? Either way, it seems we need to calm down Priestess Nymset a bit.

Human God, I will take my leave now.

... Anyway, it's good that Nymset has joined us...

Oh! If Nymset meets Sister Erneste or Sister Osla...

No!

Human God, sir, permission to enter?

S-sorry for interrupting, sir.

I have urgent business to report to you, Human God… sir.

Sir. The reason I came is, I want to file a complaint against a vanguard.

A complaint…? Are you saying someone serving the Human God has done wrong?

This is not a matter to be dismissed. Speak.

Well… it's you I'm filing a complaint against, Kalina, ma'am!

You do something wrong, then turn around and ask who the culprit is… That's, I have to say, a bit shameless, ma'am.

What was that?

Yes, sir. Reporting.

I was working a pizza delivery job, sir.

There was a promotion where if delivery took over thirty minutes, the pizza was free, so I was hurrying.

Then, at the mouth of an alley, I spotted a robber attempting to abduct a law-abiding citizen, sir.

As a member of the honourable 4th Legion, I intended to rescue the civilian and apprehend the criminal.

But that robber moved fast, sir. They slipped past my attack and ran.

In the end, I lost the robber, went over the delivery time… and the pizza cost was deducted from my wages, sir!

I'm sorry about your pay, but what does that have to do with me? I was with the Human God all morning.

You might've been here, ma'am. But what about your militia?

Why are you bringing my unit into this in the first place?

Because, Kalina ma'am… the robber I was chasing today was Swamp Elf militia..!

That is absurd!

My subordinates are warriors who understand honour. They would never stoop to something so base.

It must have been someone in disguise!

Someone can copy the uniform, ma'am… but they can't copy a Swamp Elf's footwork.

This is a false accusation!

Then I ask that you admit it properly, ma'am. And that you reimburse my pay as well!

Pray, a moment, Mahari of Lamora, soldier of honour. I have a matter to inquire of you.

Ahem. Yes, ma'am, ask away.

You said you were certain the robber was a Swamp Elf, based on their movement.

If you compare that movement to Kalina's… which was superior?

Mm. It was similar to Kalina, ma'am. Or a little faster.

Then we can be certain it wasn't one of mine.

None of my militia possess skill comparable to my own.

Really, ma'am? Then the robber must've been you!

…I believe I may know who the true culprit is.

Truly, Lady Palekar?

For real, ma'am?

Her name is Lierka. A Swamp Elf child, and one of the disciples I once instructed.

I've never heard the name "Lierka" among your disciples, Lady Palekar.

Naturally, Kalina.

I cast Lierkar out, long ago.

Cast her out, ma'am…?

Among our people, agile and supple as Swamp Elves are, she was, I fear, exceptional.

Her mind was equally keen. Teach her one thing, and she would comprehend three.

And yet… there was a most grievous flaw.

She was so thoroughly persuaded of her own brilliance that her nature became warped.

Under the pretence of "training" the techniques I had imparted to her, she took to tormenting the weak.

I exerted myself, again and again, to set her crooked spirit aright…

But in the end, Lierkar raised her hand against me.

Against you…? Surely not…

Cast out… and defiance… If I may, that's insubordination, ma'am?

Indeed.

Lierkar concluded there was nothing further for her to learn from me.

And, wishing to keep my art to herself… she drew her blade, and struck at me without warning.

…Yes, my disciple.

Impossible…

Upon a lonely cliff, after a fierce and bitter contest, I brought her down.

Lierkar fell, bearing a deeper wound across her face than my own, and plunged into the ravine below.

With the blood she had lost, and the height of that precipice… I thought it only natural that she had perished.

And yet she clung to life, and now she's committing crimes.

…Kalina, ma'am. I'm sorry. I misjudged you.

It's quite all right, Mahari. Anyone could have made the same mistake.

Human God... I can't simply let this go, sir.

As a member of the honourable 4th Legion, I request permission to assist in capturing Lierkar.

If it will set your mind at ease, then very well.

Human God, I have one request.

Please allow us to move to apprehend Lierkar.

We must prevent further victims at her hands...

Human God, such a vile criminal must be brought to judgement!

That's right, sir! For my living expe, I mean, for the safety of Neo-Seoul! …Ahem. Ahem.

Pray, no.

Lierkar is an account that belongs to me alone. It is only proper that I be the one to sever it.

No, Lady Palekar.

You are now the Human God's vanguard… and his mentor as well.

…Disciple.

Then we must pursue Lierkar.

Mahari, where did you lose her?

The last place I saw her was the back alleys, ma'am.

It's like a maze in there…

For an ordinary criminal, perhaps. But for someone like Lierkar to vanish into the back alleys…

In that case, we'll require assistance from someone else. Not that I'm particularly pleased about it…

Do not bring your private grievance with your sister into this matter, Kalina.

Urgh… yes, Human God.

I'll summon the Hanseong Owl, Samarika.

Samarika, of the Hanseong Owls. Reporting in, Human God!

I have received the details.

An expelled disciple of Master Palekar has slipped into Neo-Seoul and is committing crimes, is that the situation?

Then the finest militia in Neo-Seoul, the Hanseong Owls, will exert ourselves to the fullest and apprehend Lierkar.

Pray, be at ease, Human God.

"The finest militia in Neo-Seoul" is not a title I'm inclined to concede.

Your concession is unnecessary.

The Hanseong Owls' reputation is proof enough of my skill.

And what, exactly, is that supposed to!

Enough. We stand before the Human God. Sisters of Miora, conduct yourselves with restraint.

......

......

I'd heard you two didn't get along, ma'am… but it's really true.

Yes, sir! If that's what you say, then I understand, sir!

Ahem. Returning to my report, Human God.

I, too, had heard rumours, of a suspicious Swamp Elf moving through the back alleys.

I did not realise the criminal was Instructor Palekar's former disciple, however… I have located a place I strongly suspect to be Lierkar's hideout.

Hehe. Thank you for your kind words, Human God!

Ugh...

There is, however, one complication.

A complication? Whatever do you mean, Samarika?

It appears Lierkar's hideout lies beyond Neo Seoul's walls.

Beyond the wall, ma'am?!

Yes. She's been moving in and out beyond the wall as she commits the crimes.

I believe it is to prevent her trail from being traced.

Calculating, aren't they. All the more reason we must catch her, this time.

The ever-capable Hanseong Owl will take responsibility and guide you there.

Yes. Please leave it to me!

Master Palekar. I heard Lierkar used her "training" as an excuse to torment the weak.

Indeed. I forbade it… yet she would not heed me.

I see. She reminds me of someone I used to know. Wouldn't you agree Kalina?

What?

You used me as your sparring partner, after all.

That was because we were sisters training together. I never meant to bully you the way Lierkar did!

Hmm.

It didn't feel very sisterly from where I was standing, being dragged into it, whether I wished it or not.

Samarika!

Kalina. Samarika. Pray, distinguish between duty and personal quarrel. We are before the Human God.

My apologies, Human God.

I sincerely apologize, Human God.

I shall scout ahead, see if there are more Abominations on the road.

......

I didn't realise Samarika still kept that in her heart…

To glean even a small portion of the grievance your younger sister bears you is, in truth, no trifling gain.

With so much bitterness between you, do not expect it to be remedied in a single stroke.

Give it time. Tend to it with patience, then mend it, step by careful step.

I understand. Thank you for your counsel, Lady Palekar.

It is, after all, the duty of one's elder.

If there's anything I can do, ma'am, please give the word.

If comrades are carrying grudges, they can't guard each other's backs. And it's… it's sad, too.

…Thank you. Both of you.

Until Samarika returns from her scouting, you should rest, my disciple.

We must meet Lierkar only when every preparation is in order.

Understood, ma'am.

Yes, Lady Palekar.

Samarika of the Hanseong Owls, reporting in.

I've checked that Lierkar is indeed inside that building, but with her underlings as well.

Pray, how many in total?

Ten altogether, including Lierkar. And there is more...

Abominations are posted around the building.

From the way they're placed, sir… it almost looks like they're standing guard.

Abominations possess no such wit.

Lierkar will be employing what she learned from me...

Evading their notice, whilst using them as sentries.

We might be able to slip in while keeping out of their sight, but…

If we engage Lierkar, the noise could draw the Abominations in from behind, sir.

We have to avoid getting hit from both sides at once!

Just so. To lure intruders into a pincer, using Abominations as the other jaw, would suit Lierkar perfectly.

To twist what she learned from Master Palekar into something like this…!

Human God, such a vile criminal must be brought to judgement!

That's right, sir! I'll make her pay for my living expenses, properly, sir!

Your grudge over living expenses seems rather… deep.

I beg your pardon, my disciple. That this has come to pass, born of a teacher's former failing, truly, I am sorry.

Lady Palekar, we've already put that behind us.

P-punish your teacher! How irreverent, my disciple!

Punish… sir? What kind of punishment, sir?

Like, uh, physically..?

Y-you needn't concern yourself with that!

Come, quickly. We clear out the Abominations… and then we go to seize Lierkar.

Human God! Abomination sweep complete, sir!

Now we go in and corner Lierkar, and her underlings!

Do not rush it, Samarika.

You don't get to give me orders, Kalina!

Do I still look like someone bound to you?

When have I ever said that?

Kalina. Samarika. Pray, distinguish between duty and personal quarrel. We are before the Human God.

Must I forever be made to part you two? How long am I to stand between you and your quarrel?

Fufufu... I thought I heard something, and look what we have here?

…Lierkar!

Fufu... It has been some time, Master Palekar. No, how foolish of me. You are no Master of mine any longer.

What sort of "teacher" leaves her disciple with a wound so deep she must hide her face behind a mask?

…Lierkar.

Exactly. Lady Palekar acted in self-defence, nothing more.

To speak so brazenly, instead of showing gratitude for Master Palekar's teachings…

You've no right to call her "Master" at all!

You're the one who kept committing crimes without remorse!

Being cast out suits you!

Oh? I see that you've taken on a new disciple in my absence.

I should have ended you that day, taken every last technique you hoarded, and made it mine.

A pity. Truly, a pity.

Spare me your empty words, Lierkar. You will not flee again.

Today, I shall set the final mark upon what I failed to finish then.

Fufu. Who said I was running? This is perfect.

My former master… the enemy who left this scar on my face, and on my life.

After you broke me, I endured. I sharpened myself. And now I will show you what I have forged.

Teacher and disciple. We will settle which of us stands above the other, once and for all.

...I'll be waiting. Fufufufu.

It seems Lierkar has no intention of fleeing, my disciple.

…Yes. You are right. Let us go where she waits.

I'll go with you, Lady Palekar.

I will assist as well!

Time to bring justice down on that villain, sir!

Lierkar, disgrace of the Swamp Elves! Surrender, now!

Repent, and submit to judgement!

The more you resist, the more it's going to hurt, villain!

Fu fu fu...

Palekar… the Swamp's sage. The one who records the world's secrets. You've grown old.

Are you so afraid of me you've brought a whole pack?

The Palekar I remember would have come alone. Aren't you ashamed?

Spare us your nonsense!

Heh. Then let's do this instead.

Just like before, you and I, one on one.

We wield the same art. The same techniques. If one of us wins… doesn't that prove who truly stands above the other?

If you accept, I'll order my team to stay out of it.

Less needless bloodshed. A sensible offer, wouldn't you say?

Lierkar… my former disciple.

The bond between teacher and student ended by your arrogance and betrayal, yet I am still the one who once taught you.

Did you truly believe I would be blind to the scheme beneath your pretty words?

The moment I stepped forward alone, you would have your underlings fall upon me.

And why would you assume such a thing?

I only wish to decide which of us is superior.

Duel or no, if I am slain here today, then my art remains in only one set of hands: yours.

And you, who struck at your teacher from behind, would not hesitate to kill me in a pincer...

Then call yourself "the greater," as though my death were proof of your excellence.

Is that not what you mean to do?

Hah… you do know me well. Fufufu...

A shame. I could've reduced your numbers before we began.

You speak of a duel, yet you were planning an ambush…?

Vile to the very end.

Exactly! Where's your honour?!

Honour? Don't make me laugh. The winner decides what's just, and who deserves honour.

Lierkar, there is something you must understand. I have not come here as your former master. I stand before you as a vanguard in service to the great Human God...

To pass judgement upon a criminal who preys upon Neo-Seoul.

Our personal account comes only after.

Lady Palekar…

Master Palekar…

It is time you answered for the evils you have amassed, Lierkar.

"Answered for," you say. But it was you who taught me these techniques.

If you gave me the power that let me do all this… shouldn't you answer for it as well?

My disciple…!

If a blade harms someone...

That's on the one who swings it, not the blade itself!

Don't you dare justify your crimes by blaming Master Palekar!

Tch… then I'll just kill you all!

......

Ah, pray forgive me.

I was offering a prayer, that Lierkar's soul might yet reach the great Father Tree.

She has lived by grievous wrongs, so the road will not be an easy one…

But in the end, she shall arrive, and there, she will be judged for every sin.

I am a historian who records the world's passage… and a priestess of the Father Tree as well.

In years past, I presided over rites of many kinds, among them, the ceremony for wandering souls.

Precisely.

I still remember you in ceremonial robes, performing your sword-dance.

Indeed. It was sacred… and beautiful, all at once.

You flatter me... That will do, sisters of Miora.

Wow… I want to see it too, ma'am.

Ngh, th-that is…

I-if the occasion ever presents itself… then… perhaps…

Whoa! That's a promise, ma'am!

Yay! I got to settle my living-expenses grudge and see something amazing, sir!

A reward, sir? N-no, I can't accept that.

Why not?

Today was… me repaying a debt, ma'am. For wrongly suspecting you as the culprit.

I didn't do it for the money!

If anything… I'll accept the Human God's kindness. That's enough for me, sir.

Huh…?

That's right, Mahari.

Chae-young always wants the vanguards to be an example, as those who serve the Human God.

She'll be glad to see a reward issued.

B-but...

You said yourself you weren't acting for profit.

Which is precisely why you should accept it.

Just so, Mahari.

If you refuse, then in time, other vanguards may be denied rewards even when they do good deeds.

Surely you would not wish for that.

O-of course not, ma'am! But…!

I-if you say so, Human God… then… understood, sir.

Thank you, everyone!

Then… shall we return to Neo-Seoul?

The way back will be guided as well, by this capable militia of the Hanseong Owls.

Samarika…

What is it, Kalina?

About what happened before…

An apology is unnecessary, Kalina.

What?

That matter is long behind us. Apologise now if you like, it will move nothing in me.

And do not mistake that for forgiveness.

What has piled up between us won't melt away with a single "sorry."

Samarika!

Let her go, Kalina.

Lady Palekar…

Resentment that has gathered over years is not undone in a single day.

Hurry it, and you will only invite the very opposite of what you desire.

Y-you would go that far…?

Truly… thank you... Human God.

Your face looks a bit red, ma'am. Are you feeling unwell?

I-it's nothing!

I'll make sure Samarika doesn't get too far ahead!

And I want to hurry up and get my reward, sir!

I'm already wondering how much it'll be!

Is there something you wish to say, my disciple?

It is entirely because of you.

Had you not been here, I would have gone after Lierkar alone.

M-my woman?!

Ahem. Ahem.

Thank you… for stepping forward on my behalf.

It feels as though something buried deep within me has finally been lifted away.

And to repay such grace… I shall devote both body and heart to aiding you, my disciple.

I-irreverent! Utterly irreverent!

Human God! I'm here!

I've got something to ask you, so don't try to dodge it!

Honestly… not really!

Lately, something's been off with me.

It's weird. Like, really weird!

So, um… the other day, I saw you talking with the other vanguards…

And ever since then… something's changed. My heart doesn't feel the same as before!

…Th-this is utterly improper!

No matter how… how you serve as the Human God's vanguard!

To skulk about out of sight… slipping beneath desks…

And to engage in such conduct in the open… tracing over him, up and down, licking, pressing yourself against him…!

It is thoroughly unbecoming, Sister Eugenia…!

At the very least… if such matters must occur… they ought to be conducted in private… with the Human God alone…!

Hmm… it seems a more thorough and precise explanation is required.

To correct your misunderstanding, this is not mere indulgence, nor a personal matter.

Rather, it is the first great step toward humanity's future in arcane engineering.

Good heavens… what on earth are you implying?

Taking him into your mouth beneath the desk, and you claim that is not indulgence?!

If you have heard the rumors, then you should already know. I lead the Crownseekers, the foremost school of transmutation.

And transmuters… pursue the essence of life itself.

…C-could you possibly mean?

Yes...

In the end, it all comes down to "Curiosity."

The instinct that drives us beyond the present… toward the future.

!!!

!!!!

All of this is a path toward intellectual pursuit, Sister Valeta.

The duty of a researcher is to expand the boundaries of knowledge through hypothesis, observation, and verification.

Indeed... So that was the truth you sought?

Precisely. What I share with the Human God, this "research", is an inquiry into the future, born from a transmuter's fixation on life itself.

Though I may be lacking, as the one who leads the Crownseekers, I have never once forgotten that duty.

…I see… one cannot deny there is a certain… internal consistency to your reasoning.

We stand before an existence unlike any other, the Human God.

Which means! There is no suppressing the urge to uncover everything about him, this curiosity.

Indeed… curiosity is the finest means by which one may grasp the divine order.

Heh… it seems you understand, Sister Lisandria.

Though our paths differ, perhaps we arrive at the same destination?

Then we cannot afford to fall behind. We must add devotion to this burning intellectual passion.

Wouldn't you agree, Abbess Valeta?

…Sister Lisandria is correct.

I must apologize for my earlier lapse in judgment, Sister Eugenia. In that case…

I shall join you in expanding the boundaries of knowledge, leveraging intellectual inquiry as our foundation.

Fufu… I look forward to the intellectual "ecstasy" your devotion will bring.

Now then… shall we proceed to "study" the Human God together?

That's what happened!

How, how is that even allowed?!

!!!!

…

…Yeah. You're right.

Now that I think about it… this is how things usually go.

BUT!!!

But my mood still feels off!

I don't get it, Human God.

Listening to Eugenia, Lisandria, and Valeta just now… why does it feel like...

Like something heavy just dropped into my chest… like there's a nail hammered straight through my heart.

Like you said, it's just the usual… nothing special.

No, Human God. I'm not okay.

My world used to be simple.

How do I rise to the top?!

How do I bear the Human God's child?!!!

As long as I had those answers, everything made sense, clean, perfect! But not today!

Even standing here, laying everything bare, this should've fixed it…! But it didn't!

…This isn't going to work. I can't leave it like this.

Human God, I have to find a solution.

A proper leader listens to those worth learning from.

I'll ask around, gather opinions, verify them, and figure out exactly what this feeling is!

Human God! A firm and proper morning!

Heh, I showed up right on time too, you know?

Firm up top, firm down below, fully prepared!

Heh… Human God.

I've finally figured it out!

Yes! I put the insight of a future president of the Federation to good use!

Naturally, I began by listening to the advice of a capable advisor.

Hahaha, Kalma. I like that ambition.

Heh. I'm impressed. A Kesak, actually listening to someone else? Didn't think I'd live to see it.

Just how big are you planning to get?

Heh… don't be so modest yourself, Kaul.

Without your advice, I wouldn't have been able to grasp the feeling clouding the mind of this future president.

Still, you should be proud.

People've got two earholes so they can listen, but most don't hear a damn thing until they've got a hole punched through their gut.

…Though the hole down below? Different story. Always gets attention.

Human God… I'll say this plainly.

I think… I was jealous of all of it.

Yes. It was jealousy, the very emotion that had taken hold of me!

Petty… childish… the sort of emotion I never imagined could dwell within the heart of this future President!

And yet… it was there. Sitting inside me the whole time.

I knew it the moment I saw you. That ugly little thing already had its claws sunk in.

I've seen plenty of people turn ugly once jealousy gets a grip, Human God.

But I am someone who will serve the great Federation.

So I will acknowledge it. I won't deny this jealousy within me.

With my own two feet, I will walk forward, toward the future.

No, no. That's not it, Kalma.

That's not what we agreed on, remember?

Ah… you're right, Kaul. I lost sight of our plan for a moment.

To face this honestly… relying on just these two feet won't be nearly enough…

Yeah, that's it. Not your two feet, your two breasts, Kalma. Be honest. Put it all out there!

Throw out every last bit of pretense clinging to you!

Like the vanguards back in the sanctuary, nothing left but raw instinct, tear off the shell and let it all loose!!!

Human God, I'll be right back.

All that I am… I won't be swallowed by jealousy, I'll be the one who brings it to heel. I'll show you what a true future power looks like!!

So watch closely, this is the one who will stand proudly at your side!

I'm coming too!! You can't leave me behind!

…

My greetings, Human God.

Pray forgive my delay in speaking. Yet…

…

…That is… ah…!

…

I had thought to explain the matter to you beforehand, Human God…

Yet this is a thing best witnessed with your own eyes. My tongue fails me in the saying of it.

Still… there is one truth you must know.

…The Grrik are...

Certainly no dog.

Human God!!!

Hahaha! Even you're struck speechless by Kalma's resolve, Human God.

Yeah… that's right.

Can you feel it, Human God?

A Kesak named Kalma, who would not only overcome jealousy, but become one with it… The will of K!!

Human God! Before you, there will be nothing hidden from me now!

Jealousy? There is no such thing left inside me now.

This collar of loyalty, just like Kilon's! Only devotion remains within me.

Rather than stand by and envy from afar, I'll force my way in and claim it, Your love, Human God!!!

I'm coming too!! You can't leave me behind!

…So, if I understand Sister Eugenia correctly...

Kalma and Kaul wish to join us in this… "sacred intellectual pursuit," is that right?

Yeah!

This future leader shall cast off all jealousy and small-mindedness, and proudly join your ranks!

I'm coming too!! You can't leave me behind!

Leave the hole exploration to me, yeah?

Hm… it surely does complicate matters…

Would that truly be such a problem, Abbess Valeta?

When it comes to satisfying our thirst for intellectual inquiry into the Human God, the more companions we have, the better.

But allowing such 'amateurs' to participate in the study of the Human God…

I am in favor of it.

…Is that not rather hasty of you?

But Abbess Valeta… think for a moment.

Think of what, precisely?

…Its size.

?

??

Picture the Human God's sheer greatness.

!!

!!!

!!!!!!!!

That immense, sacred strength of the Human God… a masculine force that even the three of us could scarcely withstand.

And think back to how we were left collapsed after our intellectual pursuits with him.

…You have a point.

You make an excellent point!

Ms. Kalma and Ms. Kaul's strength and stamina would be a tremendous asset to our research.

A perfect balance of power and technique, one might say.

Strength! Stamina! That's where I shine.

…It seems I must concede the matter once again.

The insight of the Blade of Light's… mattress, no, maiden.

Then there is no reason to hesitate any longer.

Shall we all head on ahead?

Gladly, Sister Eugenia.

Then, Human God, we shall go ahead and warm your bed for you.

Now that our numbers have grown… it should heat up much faster than usual.

…

Human God… do you remember what I said earlier?

That instead of standing off to the side and feeling jealous… I'd force my way in and compete myself.

So… I prepared something.

A ruler must possess two things: the strength of a lion, and the cunning of a fox.

Of course, Human God. You'll be stunned when you see it.

What began as jealousy has now become… a secret weapon worthy of a future leader!

If you're curious… call for me in the lobby a little later, alright?

Human God, my apologies for coming to you so suddenly. There is an urgent matter I need to report.

We've received reports of a young woman fighting Abominations alone near the outer walls of Neo Seoul.

We don't know where she came from, but her movements are… reckless. She's been causing repeated disturbances in the area.

Yes, Human God. She's been lingering around the outskirts, picking off Abominations and then slipping away… however...

The way she fights is provoking them.

According to Intelligence, this could trigger a large-scale surge if it continues. Which is why I've come to request your assistance in resolving the situation.

It is. Her combat ability appears to be… highly unusual.

The Abominations aren't just reacting, they're being drawn toward her. We can still contain it for now… but if this goes on, it will escalate beyond control.

The analysis of the recorded footage is… rather peculiar.

Based on her appearance alone, she looks Lamoran, wearing what seems to be a torn Lamora suit.

However, her physique doesn't match typical Lamoran profiles. She's also been seen wielding a two-handed greatsword with one hand… effortlessly.

And more notably, her combat style shows traces of Kesak influence.

We won't know for certain until we make contact, but… I believe we'll need input from our Lamoran vanguards.

Human God! Yeon Chae-young! Your future leader has arrived!

Good afternoon, Human God.

Good, you're both here. Then...

Before that...

?

Human God, this is a conspiracy!!!!

A calculated attempt to defame every last Lamoran, there's no doubt about it!

??

Honestly… typical Kesak behavior...

Are you still going on about that nonsense?

Hah! Nonsense, you say??

I am destined to rise, to stand at the very peak of the Federation! Of course I've seen through it all!

Ms. Kalma… what exactly are you implying?

Why, it is quite elementary, my dear Yeon Chae-young.

That troublemaker outside? There's a grand scheme behind her, there has to be…!

Think about it! It doesn't add up! Lamorans are supposed to be small and fragile!

And yet this one? From what I hear, she's quite the spectacle out there.

Strength, physique… everything about her sounds suspicious.

…What exactly are you implying?

Are you insulting us Lamorans right now?

Then what, you're saying you can swing a greatsword like that with one hand?

Ngh… That's unfair. You're arguing with facts!

Because it is a fact. That girl out there, one hand on a two-hander sword, charging in like it's nothing.

And from what I hear, her clothes are practically shredded, everything's on display, and the body? Full, bold, impossible to miss. Not exactly what you'd expect from a scrawny little Lamoran.

W-What are you talking about?!

Lamorans are perfectly well-proportioned!

Hah… relax. I'll acknowledge it, everyone has their own appeal.

As the future power who will rule with absolute balance, I respect all tastes.

Some people like them small. Some like them… substantial. I don't discriminate!

Ugh… that's just disrespectful.

So, Ms. Kalma, your conclusion is that this is all part of someone's plan?

Exactly! That tiny Lamoran frame, fighting like a Kesak?

There's no way that's natural!

And what, precisely, would be the purpose of such a scheme?

And it starts with this…

Someone's trying to steal my popularity! My votes!

…Pardon?

Ripped clothes to grab attention, a body like that to win people over, It's textbook image strategy!

She's setting herself up as my political rival, obviously!

Then do you have any idea who might be behind this "scheme"?

If we knew that, it wouldn't be a conspiracy, would it?

…So in other words, a baseless theory.

According to our investigation, the unidentified girl is acting entirely alone.

Still...

??

It's not like I have no suspicions. However…

That kind of 'being'… wouldn't be able to fight this rationally.

Exactly. If it were that sort of origin, she'd have burned herself out already, no control, no restraint.

Which is why I'm telling you, this has to be a setup!

Both of you, what are you...

…Of course, Human God.

We'll confirm the situation directly with her.

I'll prepare the deployment immediately.

Ahh… that was amazing!

They say the world is round, right? If I just keep walking and beating up monsters… I should run into my prince someday!

Excuse me. May we speak with you for a moment?

Oh! You guys helped me earlier, right?

Thanks a bunch! That made taking those ugly things down way easier!

I'm Marika! I came all the way from Lamora to find my one true love!

…As expected. She seems closer to Kesak, does she not?

Anyone smiling like that in clothes that torn… something feels off.

But look at her, small build, soft features… she looks Lamoran to me.

But...

Hm… you might have a point…

It is a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Marika.

I am Yeon Chae-young of the Bureau of Rift Management, Combat Support Division.

I serve the Human God of the East Asia Federation.

Human God? Oh, him? The handsome one over there?

I thought so… my eyes kept drifting back to him…

Could this be… love blooming out here in the wasteland…?

Oh? Not bad.

Going straight for the Human God, huh? You've got guts. I like that.

Huh? A Kesak?

Hi! How did you end up all the way on Earth?

Huh? Oh, uh… yeah. Hi.

Oh! There's a Lamoran too! Hi!

M-Me?

Ah, yes. greetings ma'am!… no, just… hello!

Hey… you see it too, right?

The look, the way she carries herself, And more than anything… have you ever seen a Lamoran act that friendly toward a Kesak?

Then again… a Kesak acting that gentle toward a Lamoran would be just as strange.

Still… there is something about her. It feels… oddly balanced.

Exactly. She does not line up with anything we have heard.

As a representative of the Bureau of Rift Management, responsible for the defense of Neo Seoul, I have several questions for you, Ms. Marika.

To begin, your reason for remaining near Neo Seoul…

…Whoa! I have seen this in a novel!

Huh? Suddenly?

The part where the wandering heroine gets into a crisis, and kind strangers help her keep going on her journey!

It's so cool, right?!

…I would not exactly call that a crisis, would you, Human God, sir?

Ahem. In that case, Ms. Marika, are you willing to cooperate with the Bureau's investigation?

Mm! Sure! No problem!

But...

?

After the investigation… that handsome, uh… Human God?

Will I be able to see him again?

Then it is settled!

I will do my best, so, maybe we can meet up again later, okay?

According to our findings, Ms. Marika is a Lamora–Kesak hybrid.

Yes, Human God. Her parents are a Lamoran and a Kesak, respectively.

In truth, it is highly unusual for a Lamora–Kesak hybrid to be as kind and naive as Ms. Marika, Human God.

Yes. Hybrids of Lamoran and Kesak origin are rarely born under positive circumstances.

Given the long history of conflict between the two races…

They are typically regarded as unstable, often destructive, and treated as potential threats.

However, those assumptions do not appear to apply to Ms. Marika.

Based on all available findings, Ms. Marika is, quite simply… an innocent and carefree girl of her age.

Having grown up in a shelter with her parents, she had no peers, and instead spent her time reading romance novels.

Though physically small, she possesses the strength of a Kesak, and the agility of a Lamoran.

Do you recall the torn clothes Ms. Marika was wearing when we first encountered her, Human God?

Those garments were handmade by her parents.

Despite the damage sustained during combat after crossing the Rift, she refused to part with them.

At present, we have commissioned Lamoran engineers within the Bureau to provide her with a new suit.

However… as those clothes carry her parents' affection, she appears reluctant to let them go.

If possible, I believe returning them to her, even in their current condition, may be worth considering, Human God.

Although the original suit was crafted using authentic Lamoran technology, full restoration would require considerable resources.

Even so, returning it as it is may still hold meaning for her.

Some things carry meaning simply as they are.

For example… something that holds her parents' love, something that cannot be replaced…

…Ahem. My apologies. I have gone off topic.

By the way, Human God…

Do you recall your promise to Ms. Marika?

I thought you might.

Ms. Marika has completed the investigation and has asked that you honor that promise.

In other words… she wishes to see you again.

Understood, Human God.

Very well. I will contact her and have her come to the Sanctuary.

Hey, Human God!

I finished the investigation, just like I promised!

The Bureau is amazing… how do you even have Lamoran suits all the way out here?

Hehe… thanks for keeping your promise too.

I really wanted to see you again.

Huh? Ah… um… that is…!

If you look at me like that, I get… kind of embarrassed…

Human God, I would recommend accepting Ms. Marika as one of your vanguards.

Her combat ability has already been demonstrated, she crossed the Rift alone and engaged Abominations near the outer wall.

Furthermore, given her naive and straightforward nature, she is unlikely to cause issues under your command.

Therefore, if you choose to accept Ms. Marika into your ranks...

Objection!!! I must oppose this recruitment!

I am against bringing that Lamora–Kesak hybrid into your ranks.

Hah. Look at that, we agree for once.

Same here. No way I'm letting that happen.

Ms. Matrotho… Ms. Kaul?

May I ask your reason for opposing Ms. Marika's recruitment?

Mahari and Kalma told me.

She's a Lamora–Kesak hybrid. And you're thinking of taking her in.

That's not happening. She's too dangerous.

I hear she's harmless… but that means nothing. Can she even prove it?

Then what would you suggest, Ms. Matrotho?

Simple. She fights me. Push someone hard enough, their true nature shows.

I'll drag out whatever she's hiding.

I'm in too! No way I'm missing a fight like this.

Heard you can swing a blade. Let's see what you're really made of.

Well? Hybrid. You in?

Or are you backing out now?

Hahaha!

?

Haha… is this what they call the heroine's trial?

Right! A proper romance heroine beats the villains in her way, and wins over the handsome lead in the end!

Even if all of you come at me at once, I'm not giving up on my romance!

…You sure this is a romance story?

Enough talk! I'll prove it in a fight!

The Gals' got some fight in her after all.

Come on, then. Let's see how long that confidence lasts.

Ahh… that was amazing!

You guys can actually fight, huh?

Way better than those mindless monsters, I finally got to enjoy myself!

Tch… you. You're as strong as a Kesak.

And yet your swordsmanship… unmistakably Lamoran.

Hehe, didn't I tell you? I learned from my mom and dad!

This much is nothing!

…I have to admit it.

Human God, as hard as it is to believe… she is not like other Lamora–Kesak hybrids.

From what I have heard, hybrids like that lose themselves in battle… and do not regain control even after it ends.

But this one is still smiling… I believe she would be acceptable as one of your vanguards.

Hehe… so you finally admit it?

Does that mean we are friends now?

Ahem… that is a bit… forward.

Still… you're a strange one.

A Kesak-blood like you, obsessed with romance novels? You cannot eat it, you cannot swing it, what's the point?

It is not even good for stabbing or smashing.

Wait, what are you even saying?!

And what do you mean, "what's the point"?!

Are you saying your life has no love or romance at all?!

Life needs love! It has to!

Just look at my mom and dad, they made it through the Rift because they loved each other!

And then they had a cute daughter like me! And maybe even a little sibling soon, okay?!

Tch. What's the use of any of that?

It's all just desire, dressed up to look pretty.

Whaaat?! No way I'm accepting that!

You're calling romance nothing but a byproduct of desire?!

That just means you don't understand how amazing love is! You poor, miserable Kesak!!!

Ms. Marika.

Hm? What is it?

Then to confirm… you truly came to Earth in search of the kind of romance found in novels?

Mm! That's right!

You know how it goes, setting out on an adventure, saving the male lead…

Overcoming hardships and trials… and winning his heart in the end!

That's the kind of romance I came here to find!

…And, um… actually…

Hm? "Actually" what?

I think… I might have already met my male lead.

Your "male lead"? Who?

…Hehe.

That's a secret.

Very well, Ms. Marika. I look forward to working with you going forward.

Unlike certain individuals who may require correction, I trust you will uphold the dignity and discipline expected of the Human God's vanguards.

Of course.

Anyway… Human God?

I look forward to working with you

I think I'm starting to like this place… Earth, I mean.

Hehe.

Hello, Human God.

Tch… Human God. I had absolutely no intention of coming here.

Sister Erneste offered to help with the Abomination suppression mission.

It is not as though I wanted to...

But you're helping us anyway, right?

Ugh...

There's been a rumor going around among the refugees lately.

About a certain priestess who's supposedly elegant, distant, and hard to approach.

We were all wondering who it might be when… Sister Erneste decided to tease Nymset a little.

I merely pointed out the obvious!

That hyper little brat is always acting so full of herself every time she opens her mouth!

So I simply said she was probably the priestess everyone's been talking about!

How was I supposed to know she'd get that depressed over one little comment…?

Just like Sister Erneste said… Nymset's been feeling really down lately…

I think so.

I told her it was probably just meaningless gossip and not to worry about it, but… She even went to ask the other sisters for advice…

Yes… hearing you say that makes me feel a little better, Human God.

Anyway, Sister Erneste, please focus on the Abomination sweep today. And try not to tease Nymset too much.

Ugh… why am I spending my day off killing Abominations…?

If it weren't for that fidgety little thing, I'd be lying in bed watching movies right now…

I-It is not like that at all, Human God!

That menace got all sulky on her own, and now I'm the one feeling weird about it!

Still, you came all the way here to help with the mission. I think that's what really matters.

H-Human God…!

I-I'm here! This Nymset has arrived!

Good evening, Human God.

WHAT in the world are you wearing, you shameless little minx!?

Are we going to suppress Abominations, or everyone's self-control!?

…Wait. Nymset, what happened to your outfit?

N-Nymset said she's here already, didn't she!? W-Why are you staring so much!?

You did not even greet me back!!!

What do you mean, "This Nymset has arrived"?!

If you suddenly show up dressed like that, of course even the Human God's going to be shocked!

…Hmph! F-Fine! I'll forgive you just this once!

There is no need for everyone to be so surprised.

I was the one who recommended the battle nun outfit to Nymset.

Sister Lisandria?! You were the one behind this!?

Bella kept saying the priestess from the rumor probably wasn't me…

And Sister Lisandria, you always seems so confident and elegant, so…

S-So… Nymset gathered her courage and came to ask for advice.

Hmm… I see. So that is the matter weighing upon your heart.

First of all, Nymset, thank you for confiding in me.

Though I must admit, I find myself largely in agreement with Sister Bella.

There is no certain way of knowing whether the priestess from the rumour is truly you or not. The Church is hardly lacking in sisters capable of leaving rather… misleading impressions upon others.

So I would ask that you not allow yourself to become overly distressed by idle gossip.

Nymset knows that already, but… somehow, she still cannot stop thinking about it…

…

Then allow me to ask you something, Nymset. What is it that you wish to do?

Huh…? W-What do you mean…?

If you continue to let these anxieties consume you, you shall not be able to properly fulfil your duties as one of the Human God's Vanguards.

And should that happen, it may reflect rather poorly upon the Human God himself. Who can say? He may even begin to think less of you.

T-The Human God would dislike Nymset…!? N-No! That absolutely cannot happen!

Fufu… yes. Hold tightly to that feeling, Nymset. It may yet guide you toward the answer you seek.

Ugh… h-honestly, Nymset still does not really understand…

I don't know what I'm supposed to do... And I still want to know whether that rumoured priestess really was really Nymset or not…

…In that case,

I happen to possess a rather striking nun outfit. Perhaps you might consider wearing it while carrying out your relief efforts?

W-Wear a different outfit while working…? What does that have to do with anything…?

Imagine, for a moment, that the priestess from the rumour truly is you. Now suppose she begins appearing in an entirely different outfit.

Naturally, the refugees would begin spreading fresh rumours regarding the cold and elegant priestess who changed her garments. Should that occur, it would confirm the rumoured priestess truly was you.

However… If changing your attire instead gives rise to entirely new rumours regarding your appearance…

Then it would suggest the original rumours were never about you in the first place.

Ohh…! T-That actually makes sense!

B-But why specifically change clothes…?

Because appearance leaves the strongest impression upon people. A change in attire makes it ever so easy for tongues to begin wagging.

And besides… The Human God may find himself rather pleased by this new side of you.

T-The Human God would… like it…?

A-Alright then! Nymset will wear it!

So that's what happened…

Though… this outfit feels a little too reflective of someone's personal tastes…

"Personal tastes"!? Anyone with eyes can tell this is the sort of outfit worn by a woman who orders men around while snapping a whip at them!

Though it is equally possible she would be the one on the receiving end instead.

Why else would the collar include such a conveniently placed fastening ring?

Of course, depending on the chosen concept, one could interpret it either way.

…I really do not think that is the important issue here…

In any case, Nymset chose to change her attire partly to determine whether she truly is the priestess from the rumours…

And partly to recover some of the confidence she has lost.

T-That's right! Nymset does want to know whether those rumours are really about her, but…

If I keep feeling miserable like this, I may not be able to properly fulfil her duties as a Vanguard… And eventually… the Human God might start disliking her…

H-human God...

I-It suits me…!? W-Well obviously it does! Nymset is the one wearing it!

…I feel like this situation has become much bigger than any of us expected…

Ugh… why are you looking at me!?

How was I supposed to know one little comment would turn into this whole butterfly avalanche!?

…I think you combined two different expressions there.

Still… to think one flap of Sister Erneste's wings would end with Nymset dressed like this…

This must be the first time she has worn something so bold too…

Fufu… the first step is always the most difficult. Once one grows accustomed to such things, they become quite natural.

And I suspect Nymset will settle into it rather… obediently.

…

Ah…?

Did you not just imply she was going to be trained into it!?

I merely meant she would grow accustomed to it.

The first time always feels awkward. However, wear it often enough, and eventually it begins to feel perfectly ordinary.

Which is why, Nymset, I would recommend continuing to wear that outfit for the time being.

What are your thoughts, Human God?

T-The Human God thinks so too…?

A-Alright then! Nymset will make a special exception and keep wearing it for a while longer!

Though… it is a little tight around the chest…

Hmm… then it would seem the sizing is slightly too small for you. Still, I am sure you will grow accustomed to it soon enough.

Honestly… it feels like it would fit Bella perfectly instead…

And how exactly would you know that?

Bella and Nymset used to swap clothes sometimes when we were younger.

Whenever Nymset wore Bella's shirts, the front always felt a bit too tight…

So Nymset thinks this outfit would probably fit Bella perfectly too!

N-Nymset… you really did not need to tell everyone that…

Huh? Why not???

Fufu… is that so?

Bella, should you ever wish to try an outfit like Nymset's for yourself, do let me know.

N-No thank you! I-I will politely decline!

Ugh… enough with the bizarre conversations already! Can we just leave now!?

Ugh… I feel like I am dying from exhaustion.

You worked very hard today, Sister Erneste.

How did it feel spending the day in your new attire?

The refugees definitely treated Nymset differently than usual! N-Nobody could even bring themselves to talk to me properly!

Was it really… all because of the outfit…?

Most of them were too shocked to look away…

Fufu… I believe you may choose to view that as a success.

Regardless of the reason, you certainly managed to leave a lasting impression upon the refugees.

If you continue dressing this way for a little longer, the truth behind those rumours should reveal itself naturally.

And besides… the outfit felt really uncomfortable at first, but now it actually feels kind of airy…

Airy…?

Fufu… there are ways to make it feel even more liberating than it does now.

Why, if you were to remove what little remains underneath, it would feel positively refreshing.

…Ah? W-What was that supposed to mean!?

Fufu… surely you agree, Human God?

Seriously, why does this perverted nun always steer every conversation in that direction!?

…For once, Sister Erneste actually makes a fair point.

What do you mean "for once"!?

…Anyway, I feel like we have strayed rather far from the original purpose of the outfit.

Maybe it would be better if Nymset stopped wearing it after all…

Whether she continues wearing it or not is ultimately Sister Nymset's choice. Though perhaps the Human God would care to offer his opinion as well?

E-Even the Human God thinks so…? W-Well… then this Nymset has no choice!

Nymset will make yet another exception and continue wearing this outfit for a while longer!

Good evening, Human God.

And Nymset came too!

W-What!? Do you expect Nymset to wear that outfit every single day!?

A-And besides… Nymset does not need to wear something like that anymore!

…Human God, it turns out the priestess from the rumor was not Nymset after all.

Or rather… to explain it properly…

Yesterday, we went to the refugee camp to hand out relief supplies...

Bella! This outfit finally feels comfortable!

Well… it is still a little tight at times, but…

I still think that it would probably fit you perfectly, Bella. Do you want to try it on?

Umm... That sort of outfit is usually worn in front of someone you… care about.

Someone you care about?

You said you used to see some of the older sisters wearing similar outfits from time to time, did you not?

Yeah! Nymset used to see the older sisters sneaking out at night wearing outfits like this!

Those sisters would go out at night and… spend time with men…

…Oh…? W-Wait…

…Huh…? W-Whaaaat!?

N-No way…! Y-You mean this is that kind of outfit…!?

Which is why I still do not understand why Sister Lisandria recommended it to you…

Uwaaa…! I-I had no idea this was that kind of outfit…!

Ugh… what if the Human God hated seeing me in it…?

He did not seem to dislike it at all though...

…Hm? Bella, wait. Do you hear something outside?

Could it be an Abomination?

No… it sounds more like human footsteps...

Whew… good thing there are still supplies left.

No kidding. Were these supplies brought over by those priestesses?

It sounds like some of the refugees still have not picked up their supplies.

W-Wait, they just said "priestesses," right? Let's listen a little longer!

I-I do not think we should be eavesdropping…

You mean that cheerful Pathkeeper in the flashy outfit?

She is always the first to step in and protect us whenever Abominations show up. I cannot tell you how grateful I am.

That is true. Though I still do not understand why she dresses like that.

When someone keeps putting herself on the line to protect us, does it really matter what she wears?

Haha, fair enough. I suppose that is none of our business.

…

Hehe…

See? What did I tell you? It was just a silly rumor.

So the priestess from the rumor was not Nymset after all?

…Whew. That is a relief…

It seems they must have been referring to another sister.

Still, for someone dressed like that, the Pathkeeper seems a little too sweet.

Honestly, I wish she were more like that cold priestess from the rumor.

What are you talking about?

Well… I kind of wish that rumored priestess would push me around a little.

Maybe press me down with those black heels of hers…

And look at you like you were something she scraped off her shoe?

That alone would not be enough. I would want her to take a whip and really go to work on my backside...

Uwaah…?

…

… After a few minutes of her licking, your whole body starts tingling and it feels absolutely...

And what, precisely, would you like me to do to you?

Aaaah! It is the priestess!

R-Run for it!!!

Hmm… and they are gone already.

…And that is what happened.

Yes. After all, most people know Nymset by her nickname, the Pathkeeper.

Ugh… why did Nymset ever agree to wear something like that…?

I-It is not like Nymset was that bothered by it in the first place!!

A-Anyway! Unless it is for a truly special occasion, Nymset is never wearing that outfit again!

Um... Human God?

I-It's me… Nymset.

I tried this outfit on again… for the first time in a while…

W-Well of course it does! Nymset is the one wearing it!

So naturally it looks good!

Though… it is still a little tight around the chest…

Oh…

T-That does sound nice, but…

The last time Nymset worked up the courage to try that, it was… not unpleasant.

B-But tonight… she came because she wanted to do… something else…

Uwaah… th-that is…

Are you really going to make Nymset say it out loud?

Y-You already know what I mean…

Ugh… stop teasing Nymset!

Honestly… really…

Giving it my all today!

This time, I've got it!

After all, failure is the mother of success!

Ms. Efreeti... do you know how many times this has happened just today?

Didn't we agree that you'd complete the necessary testing and calculations before moving on to live experiments?

I'm sorry, Officer Yeon… I was only trying to turn the output up a little...

But it's getting better, I promise! I'm really close to perfecting it!

Oh, but she truly has been trying her hardest. The explosions have become far less frequent, and she's been learning to handle her elemental powers much more carefully.

I'm certain that if she keeps this up, one day she'll stop blowing things up entirely.

And what exactly will that accomplish if the Bureau comes down around us before then?

Ah! Then I just need to invent something that makes the building sturdier!

That is not the point.

Yes…

At its core, this is a safety issue. You simply lack proper safety awareness.

Safety awareness...?

Considering both the damage done to the Bureau and the need to improve that mindset of yours, I will be assigning you community service.

You are to complete one hundred hours of volunteer work.

A hundred hours?! That's way too much, Officer Yeon!

That number already takes into account the fact that your intentions were good.

I cannot reduce it any further.

A hundred hours, huh?… Maybe I could finish it all in five straight days without sleeping...?

Who exactly does volunteer work by pulling five consecutive all-nighters?

Wait... you can't do that? I just assumed it was something everyone could manage with a bit of elemental manipulation…

The fact that your first thought is to get it over with all at once is precisely the problem.

Yesss...

...Sigh. In any case, let us return to the matter at hand.

Ms. Efreeti, as part of your community service, you'll be assisting the Bureau with the repair and demolition of hazardous structures marked for removal.

My, how troubling. I hadn't realized Neo Seoul still had buildings dangerous enough to put people at risk.

To be precise, they're located outside the walls.

Maintaining the city within the walls isn't particularly difficult. Outside, however, Abominations make such work far more challenging.

The primary objective of this assignment is prevention.

Should these structures collapse in their current state, passing refugees may become casualties as well.

Oh, if that's all, I've got this, Officer Yeon! With my powers, it'll be over before you know it!

Additionally, until you've completed your assigned hours, access to your workshop will be restricted.

What?!?! You can't be serious! A hundred hours without inventing anything?!

Those are one hundred hours of volunteer work, Ms. Efreeti.

Surely you were not intending to venture beyond the walls unaccompanied.

We'll need to assign accompanying Vanguards and coordinate everyone's schedules. Realistically, I expect the total to be closer to two hundred hours.

Two hundred...?! That's outrageous...!

There is one final condition, Ms. Efreeti. During the course of your service, I must ask that you refrain from relying upon your abilities as an elemental.

W-Wait, what? That's not just inconvenient... that's a complete disaster!

…

B-But repairing and dismantling buildings without my powers is hard! Like... really hard!

Ms. Efreeti, people without gifts like yours still manage to build, repair, and create things every day.

B-But if I infuse an invention with elemental power, I can unlock entirely new possibilities… The output improves, the long-term energy efficiency becomes dramatically better, and...

And isn't that precisely what caused today's incident?

...You're right…

Chae-young does have a point. Efreeti my dear, you've grown far too accustomed to relying on your powers. She isn't doing this simply to make your life difficult.

Officer Yeon... Lady Griselda…

Human God. I did not realize you had arrived.

Oh dear. Welcome back, my Human God. You've come at just the right time.

H-Hello, Human God…

…I beg your pardon?

Oh my. Then I suppose there is very little left for this maman to worry about.

I would not go quite that far. I cannot, in good conscience, allow duties of this nature to occupy your valuable time, Human God.

W-Wait... One hundred hours... with the Human God? That actually sounds... really nice...?

At that point, isn't it less a punishment and more of a date...?

What was that, Ms. Efreeti?

Ah! N-Nothing, Officer Yeon!

Exactly, Officer Yeon! You said there could be even more damage to the refugee camps, didn't you?

Even now, the refugees are still being exposed to danger!

…

Very well. We shall proceed as the Human God suggests.

Thank you, Human God! And thank you, Officer Yeon!

Ms. Efreeti, I would ask that you not mistake this assignment for one hundred hours of accompanying the Human God.

This is a disciplinary measure. I trust I don't need to remind you of that.

There is no way of knowing when an Abomination may emerge. I expect you to remain vigilant at all times.

I know, I know. I've been outside the Wall plenty of times before.

We've received reports of Abomination traces near both the damaged structures and the refugee camps in the surrounding area.

My original intention was to assign another Vanguard to accompany Ms. Efreeti and handle any Abominations encountered during her volunteer work.

However, with the Human God accompanying her personally, I believe those concerns have been substantially alleviated.

There's one last thing I'd like you to remember, my child.

I do wish you wouldn't be so careless with the strength you've been entrusted with. You truly are a remarkable child, Efreeti. I've never doubted the extraordinary potential you carry within you.

For that very reason, you must learn to treat your power with the care and respect it deserves. Let this be a valuable lesson, dear. Watch closely, and see how Master carries a power far greater than our own.

Yes, Lady Griselda. I understand.

And Ms. Efreeti… Please remember to conduct yourself properly, even when you're alone with the Human God.

My, under ordinary circumstances, I would have very much liked to accompany the two of you myself. However, I suppose it cannot be helped this time. Perhaps another opportunity will present itself.

Human God, you called for me?

Waaah...! Really?! A gift from you, Human God?! For me?! I'm so excited!

Okay! I'll be right back!

Human God! What do you think? How do I look? Does it suit me?

Do I like it? I love it! I really, really do, Human God!

Oh! Actually, Officer Kim lent me some old Golden Age recordings earlier!

Putting this on makes me feel just like the workers from back then. Ehehe... it's kind of exciting.

I wanted to learn how the people who built those cities actually worked!

I kept wondering how ordinary people managed to build entire forests of skyscrapers without relying on powers like mine.

The videos said they treated even the smallest materials carefully and always kept safety in mind.

And all those little efforts… All those people doing their part… Together, they built something so amazing. And I just thought that was really, really cool.

It made me realize I still have a lot to learn… But Officer Yeon was right! Safety awareness! I'm going to use this chance to fix that properly!

That and... also getting to spend a whole hundred hours with you, Human God, Ah! N-No, Never mind! I just want to work hard and earn my workshop back! That's all! Really!

Human God! Over here! This is the bridge Officer Yeon was talking about!

Hmm... if we reinforce this section a little, it should last for years… Then this part needs a bit of work too… And what do we have here...

Human God, I'll start over here!

Well, I guess this is the kind of work I really enjoy… And besides… Ehehe...

I get to have the Human God all to myself for a while…

...Ah! N-No! It's nothing!

I mean, I get to do something I love with someone I love spending time with! Of course I'm excited!

B-But don't worry! I'll work hard! And I'll make sure to do it safely, too!

Huh?! You don't believe me, do you? Just wait! This time, I'll show you how dependable I can be!

Whew… Okay! Let's do this!

Heave-ho! Safety first's the way!

Heave-ho! Safety first's the way! Hip hooray! Hooray! Hooray!

Let's all make it home safe at the end of the day!

Hehe. Apparently, it's a ritual that's been passed down since the Golden Age!

Well... more specifically, I think people used to perform it at construction sites before starting work to wish for everyone's safety. I saw it in one of the videos yesterday!

Officer Yeon was right. I really haven't been very safety-conscious until now.

Back then, people would remind themselves of important safety practices before getting to work. They'd keep those precautions in mind so everyone could make it through the day without accidents.

And some teams managed to go a hundred whole days without a single accident… Some of them even made it all the way to a thousand!

Can you imagine it? The people who achieved a thousand accident-free days must've been true professionals. Honestly... I think it's really inspiring. I hope I can be like that someday.

Okay, and if I adjust this part like this… Hmm... maybe the output's still a little low...

Oh! Human God! I think this car might still run!

Hmm? Not really. When it comes to making inventions, I don't actually rely on my elemental powers all that much.

Oh!

Human God! There's no way I can let you fight by yourself As one of the Vanguards who serves at your side, I can't just stand back and watch. I want to fight too!

B-But..! Human God!

Th-That's… Well...

Okay. I understand, Human God. Please... be careful.

Human God! That was incredible!

I don't think I ever really noticed before, but... seeing you fight like this… I think I understand a little better now.

The way you fight feels so effortless. You never waste a single movement, and the way you use your strength is... I don't know… It just feels so natural.

Do you think… I could ever be like that too?

If I get that good at using my powers, do you think Lady Griselda and Officer Yeon will praise me too? And...

Will you praise me too, Human God?

Yay! Then I'll work really, really hard so that day comes as soon as possible!

Thanks to you, the bridge didn't suffer any additional damage. I just need to finish up a few more things!

We're here, Human God.

The refugee camp's closer than I expected. We'll have to be extra careful not to put anyone in danger while we work.

Hmm...

Ah... well… Since there are refugees nearby...

I've been trying to figure out how to get everything done without affecting the people around us.

Okay! I've got it! If I do things my way, I think I can finish the job without causing any trouble for the refugees!

Then let's get started!

Heave-ho! Safety demolition's the way! Hooray! Hooray! Hooray!

Okaaay… I'll be careful.

Hmm… This cutter has so many safety rules attached to it.

Actually, all of these tools do. They're incredibly useful, but only if you handle them properly.

I think I finally understand now. If I use my own powers carelessly...

Once this volunteer work is over, I want to apologize properly to Officer Yeon. And... I want to repair everything I damaged with my own hands.

Hmm… Oh! Actually, there is one thing! Human God, would you do the safety chant with me?

You do! The leader is supposed to sing it first!

Back in the Golden Age, the person in charge of the site would stand in front of dozens, sometimes even hundreds, of workers and lead the safety chant.

So… If it's not too much trouble… I'd really like to do it with you, Human God.

Pretty please?

Hooray! Hooray! Hooray!

Let's all make it home safe today!

Thank you, Human God! I think I can finish the rest of today's work with twice the energy now!

Oh! I should teach the chant to Kalina later!

I've heard vigilante work can be really dangerous. And if the people helping refugees beyond the Wall learned the chant too, I think it could really help!

Besides, if I tell her the Human God joined in, I'm sure she'd love it!

A secret...?

A secret... just between us… Ehehe. Okay! I understand, Human God! Today's safety chant will stay our secret!

I won't tell Lady Griselda or anyone else! Promise!

Human God! The refugee camp's too close to here!

Human God, let me help!

Please, let me use my powers! I want to fight too! I want to protect everyone!

If we don't stop them now, the refugees could get hurt! And… I'm sure Lady Griselda wouldn't want that either!

Thank you, Human God!

Sniff...

Human God… Do you think Lady Griselda's going to be mad at me?

No. Not at all. We managed to protect everyone without anyone getting hurt. I'm just worried because I broke my promise… What if Griselda's really disappointed in me?

...You don't think she's planning to punish me herself this time, do you?

Thank you for your hard work today, Ms. Efreeti.

Lady Griselda… I'm so sorry.

Uhm? Whatever are you apologizing for, my child?

I ended up using my elemental powers to protect the refugees…

We've already reviewed the field report.

The Human God authorized the use of your powers. As far as the Bureau is concerned, there is no issue.

Really?

We've confirmed that it was a necessary response to protect civilian lives.

Furthermore, the Abomination group operating beyond the Wall was successfully neutralized. Under the circumstances, your actions were entirely justified.

If anything, your conduct merits praise rather than reprimand.

Wait… Really? I'm not getting scolded?

Why ever would I scold you, my child? If anything, I'd like to praise you.

You put the safety of the refugees and everyone around you first, and you exercised your power with remarkable restraint. You did very well, Efreeti.

Ehehe… That's a relief! Honestly, spending the last few days with the Human God taught me a lot. I paid really close attention to how he uses his power.

And now I'm even getting praised by you, Ms. Griselda. I'm really glad I got assigned this volunteer work.

Oh and Officer Yeon! I want to fix all the Bureau facilities I broke, too!

And this time, safety comes first! I'm confident I won't cause any more explosions!

Your growth and attitude have both been commendable, Ms. Efreeti.

However, you still have a considerable number of volunteer hours remaining.

And do not forget that your assignment continues tomorrow.

Oh! So that means I get to spend another day with the Human God, ehehe...

Fufu. Regrettably, Efreeti, Master is a very busy man. I cannot allow you to keep him all to yourself forever.

Wouldn't you agree, Chae-young?

Of course.

We've finally completed the Vanguard schedule adjustments. Beginning tomorrow, the remainder of your volunteer work will be carried out alongside other Vanguards.

…Huh? W-Wait… What?

You will no longer be accompanying the Human God alone.

To complete your remaining hours, you will instead be assigned to work alongside other members of the Vanguard.

N-No way...

I expect you to continue working diligently, Ms. Efreeti. And afterward, I trust you'll assist with repairing the Bureau facilities as well.

Sniff… Safety... is best...