Chapter 76: Ash and Embers - (2)

Now, since we've finished our introductions, let's get to work.

There's no need to introduce yourselves. I've been watching you for a very long time.

O-Oh my... I've never seen so many dragons in my life...!

Let's see... Just the big ones I can see right now, one, two, three.......

five, six, seven.... ten, eleven, twelve.......

...Wait, did I count that pitch-black one too?

That's a Dragonian, not a dragon. Though it's basically the same oversized lizard anyway.

But you'd better watch out for that pale brat.

When it comes to having a nasty personality, she's a lizard worthy of being called a living legend.

That's actually pretty terrifying. That means she's on your level, or even worse.

My, what an honor. For the great Fairy Queen to remember me.

.......

Maybe she's actually a nice person...?!

Hey.

If your goal is to participate in the tournament, follow the proper procedures.

Even if you're the Dragon Lord, humans have our own rules.

Yes, I apologize for disrupting Cameliard's historic circus.

But fortunately, or perhaps unfortunately, the laws of war are no different for humans and dragons.

So, no matter what happens from now on, please know that there's nothing personal.

For a tyrant, she's surprisingly polite. I totally thought she'd try to get revenge for losing the last tournament.

It's the Emperor who wants revenge on us.

Last time we were here, we gave that... Lu... Lulu... Lululu......!

Lucius.

We completely humiliated that Lulu-whatever-his-name-is. And right in front of the people of Cameliard, too.

Well... putting that idiot aside, I never expected the active Dragon Lord to become a human's pet lizard.

To think the dignity of dragons could sink this low.

Since you've already thrown away your pride, why don't you let me adopt you instead?

Hmm... that doesn't sound too bad.

Since a washed-up Fairy Queen like you is actually quite cute, Morgana.

Huh?! Who are you calling cute?!

So you're fine with being called washed-up?

But even an idiot like Lucius has his uses.

Especially because he doesn't know he's an idiot.

.......

She's... that black dragon we fought before...?

And if she's the Emperor's guardian dragon.......

D-Don't tell me, is she really the "Dark Lord"...?!

...Ugh.

...My name is Eupraxia. That childish nickname was just something Lucius made up when he was a kid...

It's so cool.......

Pardon?

It's so cool...! Just like a little demon lord from a fairy tale......!

.......

...What?

Didn't you say she was terrifying when she was in her dragon form? Why the sudden change of heart?

W-Well, of course those hulking dragons are still a bit scary.......

...But a cute and fragile little girl demon lord is perfectly fine...!

Like how tiny puppies bark the loudest, and scary predators are adorable when they're babies...

Shh, quiet.

I wasn't expecting much, but to be this relaxed in front of an enemy is just sad.

Urgh...?! This mana...?!

I-I'm sorry......!

...This feels similar to when Estheria gets mad.

And I mean extremely, incredibly, earth-shakingly angry Estheria.

Fufu, compared to Estheria, I'm still just a child.

But don't let your guard down. A dragon's puberty is a terrifying thing.

Of course, it's not that I dislike this lighthearted atmosphere.......

...But right now, I'm in a position where I must uphold the Emperor's dignity.

So, even if only for the eternal glory of the Ygritte Empire.

I have no choice but to swallow my tears and play the villain.

No matter what kind of being you are, I am the champion of this Colosseum.

If you want to run wild here, you'll have to prove you have what it takes.

Or are you just lacking confidence? Are the rumors true that your body is too weak for a long fight?

Oh? That's an interesting turn of events. A mouse baring its teeth in front of a snake.

Are you worried I might hurt the civilians? Is that why you're throwing out taunts that don't suit your character?

......!!

...That's surprising. Did you actually do research on me as well?

Of course. As I mentioned earlier, I am highly interested in all of you.

For instance, you, Kay of the Knights of the Round Table.

Ashamed of your own weakness, you didn't know your place and even envied your own master.......

...And in the end, you laid hands on a power you couldn't possibly control, right?

.......

Hey, watch your mouth before you say another word.

Th-That's right! Kay was just...!

Don't let her get to you, everyone. Manipulating people with her silver tongue is that brat's specialty.

Anyway... dragons back in the day used to have some class, but kids these days have absolutely no manners.

What a shame. If the "White Dragon" hadn't gone missing, she surely would've disciplined you properly.

.......

...Excuse me, but I am actually much older than you.

Who are you calling a brat...

Whether you're a thousand or ten thousand years old, you only get treated like an adult when you act like one.

That so-called Emperor is using war as a tool for self-realization,

and you, the "guardian dragon of the Empire," are enabling him instead of stopping him.

Now that I think about it, the nickname "Dark Lord" fits you perfectly. Since everything you do is on the level of a child's delusion.

Wow... those are some harsh words.

Ugh... just listening to this is painful.

.......

...Hehe, a child's delusion, is it?

That's not entirely wrong. Neither Lucius nor I have been able to escape our parents' shadows.

...And since we are the same, I have a uselessly strong pride and hold a nasty grudge for a dragon.

Yes, which means you'd better be careful.

...Urgh.

Did you really have to provoke a self-proclaimed tyrant?

There are tons of civilians here besides us. If things go wrong...

You can put those needless worries aside.

While it's true His Majesty is still immature, he isn't foolish enough to slaughter the people who will soon belong to his Empire.

Of course, talking is cheap, so.......

You there, the Catfolk lady running the show?

Y-Yes... Yes?! M-Me-?!

Please inform the Colosseum audience. The next match will be held behind closed doors, so everyone must leave immediately.

Anyone who remains until the end will be considered a participant.

......Eh?! T-Then, can I leave too?!

Of course. Though I won't stop you if you'd rather stay and fight.

Y-Yes, yes, yes-! E-Everyone, you heard her, right?! Run away, quick!

It was great seeing you all again! I'll be taking my leave now...!

.......

Ethan, is this really......?

Yeah, she's trying to keep us pinned down here for their real objective.

Th-Their real objective...?!

Bedi, find an opening and head straight to the castle.

Lucius is definitely targeting Princess Guinevere. It's the most surefire and safest way to seize Cameliard.

And get revenge for his past humiliation while he's at it.

Damn it, I hope Mordred knows what's going on too.

B-But I can't just leave you all behind......!

My, it seems you still haven't grasped the reality of the situation.

Do you really think the likes of you can stop the personal campaign of the Emperor and the Dragon Lord?

Cameliard's fleet will all burn and sink. And any reinforcements sent from Camelot will be crushed by the Knights of the Holy Flame.

So... please keep me company until His Majesty's proposal is finished.

You can look forward to it, because it won't be boring until the very last moment.

.......

Ugh... Urgh...!

A-Are you conscious?!

Where am I... What on earth happened here?

A horde of dragons has attacked the castle. They must be targeting you, Princess Guinevere.

Dragons... Don't tell me, from the Ygritte Empire......!?

Yes, and the Knights of the Holy Fire, the Emperor's personal guard, are with them.

For dragons to allow humans to ride them, how could this be possible.......

The Dragon Lord must have started making their move in earnest.

They rarely intervened in human affairs before, but supposedly they suddenly changed their stance after Lucius became Emperor.

Though we still don't know what they're plotting...

That arrogant woman must have finally understood the glory of the Empire.

It is only natural. Just as one has no choice but to look up at the rising sun.

...Y-You!

It has been a while, Princess Elizabeth. Or should I say, the Queen of Britannia now?

I heard you did a fine job of subjugating the rebels without my help. I'm glad I don't have to manage each vassal state individually.

Britannia is not a mere vassal state of Ygritte!

It never has been... and it never will be!

Hahahah... Right, right. You must react that way for my personal intervention to be worthwhile.

Perhaps I should reconsider King Uther.

To think an ordinary man who couldn't even manage his own country would leave behind such an outstanding talent for me.

......!!

...I suggest you choose your words more carefully.

After all, the voice of the Emperor is effectively the voice of the Empire.

Ah, my apologies. I've shown a rather unsightly side of myself in front of your noble presence.

Please be understanding, Princess Guinevere.

To rule a vast Empire, sometimes one must display a harsh side.

Are you referring to trespassing in our sacred castle with muddy boots, and scorching Cameliard's sky with dragon breath?

When you accepted your defeat in the Colosseum, I believed you were a man of honor.

But to pull a stunt like this while my father is on his sickbed!

Are you discussing honor in the laws of war? You speak of things you don't even believe.

Crushing even the will to resist with overwhelming strength and wisdom.

There are no exceptions to the end the Empire must seek. At least, not as long as I am Emperor...

...Wait, Princess Guinevere. What is that wound?

No, there's no need to ask.

These foolish lizards....... I specifically ordered them to ensure the princess was not harmed.

So I was indeed your target.

Since you're even suspected of assassinating your own father, I suppose you need a grand achievement to legitimize your authority.

Hmph, I don't care about the gossip of idle busybodies.

I merely do what must be done as the master of the Empire. For rights and duties are sometimes indistinguishable.

Of course, I know that this heavy-handed approach won't win Cameliard's.......

...No, I know very well that I cannot win your heart this way.

But what matters are the process and the result. The catalyst will eventually fade with the passage of time.

Princess Guinevere, I will not deny that I approached you in the past with my sights set on Cameliard.

But I am as greedy now as I have always been.

Even if it takes some time, I want to have it all.

This country, Britannia... and even your heart.

Since the Dragon Lord has personally intervened, this country is effectively in the grasp of the Ygritte Empire.

And yet, you demand an answer from me. When you didn't even give me a choice to begin with.

Indeed. That is the Ygritte way.

......

...I'm sorry, Elizabeth. In the end, I...

Then that actually makes things simpler. Because Cameliard has the Cameliard way.

Y-Your Majesty...?!

I will give you a chance to redeem your past defeat.

A duel as ruler against ruler. Even if this is not the Colosseum, there won't be a shortage of witnesses.

Of course, if you find it too burdensome, you may refuse. I, too, understand the laws of war.

...Huh? Who are you giving a chance to?!

I am the Emperor of the Empire-! Ruling over vast lands and countless peoples that the likes of you cannot even fathom!

Then show me that imperial majesty yourself!

Because right now, I see nothing but a child running wild, drunk on power.

.......

Hmph, you've lost your mind after sitting on that throne. A courage fitting for a frog in a well.

Actually, this works out. I was just looking for a chance to test my new power.

......!!

Th-This power... Don't tell me, it's from that black dragon we fought...!?

I hear your Pendragon Royal Family passes down the "Red Dragon's Blessing"?

If so, then "Black Dragon's Blessing" would be a fitting name for this power.

Though it is merely a stopgap until I obtain the Empire's Holy Sword.......

...It is more than enough to crush the insect right in front of me.

Princess Guinevere, please stay far back.

I don't think... I will have the luxury of holding back either.

Ghk......?!

Why... why can't I overwhelm her?

Darn it-! I am the Emperor of the Empire! I do not have time to waste in a place like this!

Cough! Cough! Cough!

Oh dear... it really isn't easy.

Your Majesty-! Y-Your mouth... you're bleeding...!

I'm sorry, Princess Guinevere.

The day will come when I will reveal all the circumstances... but it is not today.

For now... please just watch over me.

.......

...Yes, I will watch until the very end.

No matter what end awaits in this war, Cameliard is still a part of Britannia.

Urgh... Aaargh...!!

Y-Your Majesty...! Eupraxia's mana places a great burden on your body!

You shouldn't push yourself too hard.......

Everyone, stand down! This is my fight-!

If I do not win with my own hands... in the name of Lucius, it means absolutely nothing!!

You seem to be in quite a hurry.

Yes, you'd better make it quick. Because Sir Mordred will be sending reinforcements soon!

Yes, Camelot has indeed been moving with strange speed.

Crassa... That venomous spider of a woman must have leaked the information.

Well, I don't care about that. I can purge the traitors anytime I want.

But I cannot overlook the folly of thinking a mere rabble of a knight order could stand against the Empire's strongest sword.

......!!! T-The Empire's strongest sword... Don't tell me-!?

The "Knight of the Holy Fire"... So even that legendary figure has returned to the front lines.

To go so far as to mobilize a traitor for a mere rabble of a knight order.......

...I'm honored. It means the Empire hasn't underestimated Britannia.

Kekeke... Don't get the wrong idea. My power alone is more than enough to subdue Cameliard.

"Dark Lord" - ! That's enough of a warm-up - ! !

By order of the Emperor - ! Give me all the strength you can offer-! Right now ─ ! !

Cough! Cough! Cough-!

Yes, I can still do this.... I can still keep going......

Everyone... please fight hard until the very end...!

.......

...This is a bit unexpected. For the current Lucius, a weak blessing should have been enough.

Is Karishara's blessing truly different? Or could it be.......

"Dragon Explosion" - ! "Dragon Explosion" ─ !

Hah... Hah... Hah.... H-Hey, does anyone have any food...?

I'm so hungry... my mana is completely...!

Here, Morgana! It's an emergency apple pie I got from Elizabeth earlier!

Oh, good job, Bedivere!

Now, everyone just hold on until I finish digesting this!

I think us getting digested by the dragons will be faster-?!

Damn it, it's a bit early, but should I wake up Eva...!?

Right now... *Chomp* from the Holy Grail... *Gulp*

if your mana... *Chomp* gets drained... *Gulp*

you're going to die! And you'll end up completely shriveled up like a dried fish!

Ugh... that would definitely be a problem.

Alright! Digestion complete-!

A pack of lizards like this is nothing once I get serious!

Of course, if even one thing goes wrong, my lifespan will be cut in half...!

That's dangerous in a whole different way! Isn't there any other way?!

T-Then this time, I'll...! My hidden power, using my life as collateral......!

.......

Uuu... I'm sorry....... This is actually my full strength right now...!

Don't push yourselves too hard, everyone. If anything, they are the ones running out of time.

My, what kind of bluff is that supposed to be?

This is actually perfect. I was just getting bored watching a story with a predictable ending anyway.

Dragon Lord Eupraxia. I've heard your mana is as extremely dangerous as it is powerful.

Enough to affect any living being touched by it, and even eat away at your own soul.

No matter how strong the Emperor's stubbornness and hatred may be, he won't be able to maintain a power that even dragons find hard to control for long.

.......

...How interesting. To think you knew that much about me.

I used to be obsessed with dragon history and legends, if only for a short while.

Believe it or not, I was actually a fan of yours back then.

If it weren't for this situation, I might have even asked to shake your hand.

Hehe, if you defect to the Empire now, I would gladly offer you my hand.

But aren't you being too naive? The current Lucius is stronger than you could ever imagine.

There's no way that half-baked Queen can stand against...

What? So they have a time limit too?

Then there's nothing to worry about. Let's just treat this as combat training.

Ah... truly, it's such a crying shame.

If there really was no other way, I would have shown that arrogant lizard what the Fairy Queen is truly capable of.

B-But we still have our own role to play!

Everyone, don't let your guard down until the very end! Let's focus as if this is a real crisis!

Let's go! Let's go! Go, Britannia!!!

...What is with this sudden, laid-back atmosphere?

Don't tell me you don't understand. Right now, at Cameliard Royal Castle...

Elizabeth is probably beating that idiot emperor to a pulp.

Actually, we'll be lucky if she doesn't accidentally kill him.

If that idiot is gone, someone actually competent might become the emperor, you know?

Oh dear, that certainly is a problem.

After all, the Ygritte Empire was so easy to deal with because of that idiot.

Um... but he is still a person of very high status, so shouldn't we show at least a little respect...?

Since everyone keeps calling him an idiot... I kind of feel bad for him...

Hahahaha! Yes, we really all think alike.

The lord of Camelot's Knights of the Round Table. There's no way Britannia's Queen, Elizabeth, would lose to a mere idiot.

As long as we keep you tied down here, victory is ours.

.......

...Honestly, I wondered what you were getting at.

This is exactly why I didn't want to get involved in human wars.

Nothing but low creatures who would tear even their own flesh and blood apart, if not drunk on illusions like chivalry and honor.

Yet your talent for turning a blind eye and blocking your ears to reality is truly peerless...

...In the end, I have no choice but to use rougher methods.

Oho, the final boss is finally stepping up.

I was just starting to get bored anyway...

...I'd like to say that, but her first impression was anything but ordinary, you know?

Just how strong is an active Dragon Lord anyway? Like, compared to Estheria, who's also a Death Dragon.

In a simple contest of brute force, Estheria would be much stronger.

But in terms of overall danger... or if we're talking about a short, decisive battle, it's hard to say.

Okay, so we're all dead.

Read between the lines, will you? I'm saying we have a chance if we drag this out.

Just like Kay said, that brat's mana puts a heavy burden on her own body.

Well, it is bitter, but I cannot deny it.

As you can see, I am a frail and delicate girl, so I prefer a more sophisticated approach over a brutish power struggle.

Something like this, for example.

Ugh... Aaaaargh...!!

S-Suddenly, my head feels like it's splitting open...!!

A-Are you okay?!

Why...? For me, it only felt like a tiny static shock...?!

Bedivere has the power of the World Tree now. Of course her magic resistance is higher than that dime-a-dozen pig's.

Good grief, and here I was wondering what she was trying to do with all that dramatic buildup.

What is this trivial magic supposed to be? It's like a child's parlor trick.

Oh, my head is clear again.

Nice job! I knew a well-fed Fairy Queen would come in handy.

It is basic Telepathic Magic. It is about as crude as putting a bucket on your head and shaking it as hard as they can.

A good attempt, but she picked the wrong opponent. I can dismantle a formula of this level with a simple snap of my fingers.

Of course, I am well aware of your skills, Morgana.

Moreover, since you have all overcome countless hardships, there is no way you would crumble from a mere parlor trick.

...And precisely because you wouldn't crumble, I targeted your softest, most vulnerable spot.

Hmph, bluffing now won't work on us.

As long as the Fairy Queen is here, most magic won't even...

.......

......!!! Wait, don't tell me you were... from the very beginning...?!

...Ugh... Argh...!!

E-Everyone, stay back from me...!

This burning sensation all over my body... This is... just like back then...!!

N-No... This is the Flame Emperor's mana!

Hey, Morgana! Eva definitely separated Kay from the Flame Emperor back then!

Why is she reacting like that to a single piece of cheap magic?!

Every soul eventually finds its own vessel. And that woman is the most suitable vessel for the Flame Emperor.

Ah... what a pity. If you had been in your prime, Morgana, you would have sealed it much more thoroughly.

You couldn't help it since you lost the power of reincarnation, could you? That's why you had to settle for a makeshift measure to keep the Flame Emperor asleep.

...And you just went and shook that sleeping wolf awake.

Are you out of your mind?! If you unleash that monster, Cameliard will be reduced to ashes!

Besides... if Kay gets dragged into this again...!

And without a Holy Grail Spirit to separate their souls again, she won't stop unless you kill her.

Of course, it's not like I want a bad ending. It would be quite troublesome if His Majesty's first conquered territory were to be scarred.

Right, but even if the Flame Emperor is unleashed, the Empire won't take the blame.

Instead, you'll just paint Lucius as the hero who defeated the Flame Emperor and saved Cameliard.

You let the civilians out from the beginning hoping for this, didn't you?

They call you a cunning and cruel tyrant... and you're certainly living up to your reputation.

.......

Hm... so you are the famous Swordbringer?

I heard you were a philanderer who charms women of any race, but in person, you look rather ordinary.

.......

...Wait, what?!

Ah... what a shame. If we weren't in this situation, I might have asked you out on a date.

W-W-Wait... What?!

It is hardly a consolation, but please enjoy the trial I have prepared for you today to your heart's content.

Though no matter what choice you make, the ending will not change.

Ugh... Argh...!!

I-I'm sorry... To cause trouble like this again...

It's okay, hang in there! Even that freeloader is reliable when she's serious!

Hey, Morgana! What do we do now?!

Well done, pig! Now, stab Kay with "Morgancles"!

W-Wait... Morgan-what?!

That sword you're holding! The "Key Sword" of memories that Merlin and I poured our hearts into!

There is normally a much less painful way, but we don't have time to be picky right now!

This is crazy... I can just stab her hand or something, right?!

What, did you intend to drive it into her stomach or chest?!

E-Everyone! I'm sorry, but could you please hurry...?!

The aura is getting even fiercer...! I can't hold out much longer...!!

Ethan... Please... I beg you...

For Elizabeth... my lord...!

.......

This is going to sting. Here goes.

W-Wait a minute! I still have something to say!

M-Morgana...?

Kay, it is no coincidence that you became the Flame Emperor's vessel.

Memories are the branches, roots, and seeds that connect people to generations, and generations to eras.

Even if you lived in different spaces and times, if you lived similar lives, your souls are bound to grow alike.

Alike...?

The Flame Emperor... and me...?

Yes, and to put it another way...

...It means you are the only one who can understand that monster.

Whoa, hold on a second! This is different from when I went into the world of memories!

Didn't you say sharing memories recklessly could cause our souls to mix?! Besides, the Flame Emperor is...

I know that! That's why I said it is dangerous!

But... there is absolutely no other way!

.......

Haha...! B-But... I'm glad.

Because I know you... will keep your promise... Morgana...!

Huh? W-What promise?

Did you... already forget? You told me... as soon as you met me today.

If I... should ever submit to the Flame Emperor again...

That you would... kill me yourself.

......!!! T-That was just meant as a warning...!!

.......

...Yes, of course a promise must be kept.

Just trust this great Fairy Queen. I will never let that lizard have her way!

Seriously... I never want to do this again.

But we still have to do what needs to be done, right? I want to land a hit on her myself.

Alright, here goes! Clench your teeth!

Yes...! Wish me luck...!

...I-Is this the place? The one Arshara was talking about...?

Yes, she said a dangerous spirit was born nearby.

This is a special task from the Lord, so please do not make any mistakes.

Y-Yeah... but at least there aren't many trees here...

Th-This time, even if I use my power... i-it should be fine...!

It is not fine. Your magic can melt even solid rock, Karishara.

No matter how desolate, this place is still a part of nature. The Lord loves every blade of grass and every single insect like her own child.

That is why she asked me to monitor... I mean, take care of you.

...I-If you're going to take care of me anyway, couldn't you join me here, Eupi...?

H-Hearing nothing but a voice in my head... makes me feel so lonely...!

Unlike a certain someone, I have a lot of work to do.

You should be grateful that I'm even helping you with this errand... *cough*!

*cough*! *cough*! Tch... Did I push myself too hard?

A-Are you okay, Eupi?! Are you feeling sick again...?!

I am fine. There is no other way for me to get used to my mana.

If you have time to worry about others, you should get moving. Unless you want to see me collapse coughing up blood again.

Y-Yeah... then I'm counting on you...!

Ugh... Ah... I-It's hot...!

Ah...! T-That child is...?!

That saves us some trouble. To think we would find it so easily.

It seems the rampage has already begun, so let us dispose of it immediately.

It hurts... so much...! S-Someone... help me... please...!

......!!

Ugh...?!

K-Karishara...? What are you doing...?!

I-It's okay! Just let it all out...!

I-It hurts because you're only trying to suppress your mana...

So... don't hold back anymore! I-I will... take it all for you...!

Are you disobeying the Lord's orders again?! Even if you are Arshara's relative...

I-I know...! But... but...

Th-This child... is still so young...! And she's crying like this...

Argh... N-No...! I can't... I can't take any more of this...!!

Yeah... it's okay.

I... might be clumsy at everything else...

But enduring pain is the one thing I'm good at...!

Argh... Aaaaaaargh...!!

This absolute idiot...!

.......

...What happened? Where is that spirit from earlier?

Y-Yeah... she just used up all her power and fell asleep.

So she wouldn't run wild again... F-For now, I sealed her inside this gem...

Hehe... I-It's still a relief that this child is a Fire Spirit.

If she were a spirit of a different element... ...Yeah, even I would have been in a lot of pain.

Honestly, why do sisters take after each other only in being so incredibly soft-hearted?

You know how dangerous an immature spirit can be, Karishara.

If she were to run wild in a forest or somewhere by accident...!

B-But... I'm just as immature myself...

Despite being uselessly strong... I can't even control my own power...

Always leaning on my sister... And just causing trouble for you and Ria...

.......

B-But at least I had all of you...

That's why... I want to give this child... a ch-chance too...!

I know this is just childish selfishness...! But...!!

...Yes, you are indeed incredibly childish.

Whether it's Arshara, Estheria, or you, I don't get why you're all acting out an adolescent phase that even I never went through, at your age.

I wish you'd think about how the youngest feels, always walking on eggshells around everyone.

.......

Y-Yeah... I guess it really is no use...

Th-Then at least... could you finish her off for me...? I just can't...

Would you mind not jumping to conclusions about what I'm thinking?

The Lord does not wish for slaughter either. She simply plays the villain to prevent greater sacrifices.

But if you can show us a new path, Karishara...

...Then I won't have to waste my mana like this either.

......!! Th-Then...?!

Naturally, I will pretend I didn't see anything. I'm not free enough to waste my time on a total stranger.

Yeah...! Thank you, Eupi...!

Y-You really are a good girl...!

Ugh... more nonsense...

I will make up a story for the Lord, so just make sure you don't get caught.

Seriously, I never want to play this unproductive babysitter role again...

...Insolent girl, did you think I wouldn't notice you just because you held your breath?

Get lost. There won't be a second time.

Oh, have we been caught already?

I thought I showed decent manners as an audience member, but what exactly has made our little spirit so angry?

.......

Ah, my bad. It's not like we're strangers, so I was being a bit too playful.

Flame Emperor Agnes. The strongest and worst spirit in history, who reduced countless civilizations to ashes single-handedly.

So even you had a cute childhood.

To think you even completely monopolized the attention of the Dragon Lords of old.

...Fine, go ahead and mock me all you want.

The moment this pathetic seal is torn apart, I will reduce everything that made me this way to ashes!

Oh, are you embarrassed that your hidden past has been exposed?

It certainly is unfair for me to be the only one watching.

So to be fair, I'll share my own closely guarded past with you.

...What?

You see, when I was young, I thought I was a genius.

Since I was praised for everything I did, and could easily defeat nobles or royal guards with just a clash of swords.

I thought my humble birth and the curse of this red hair... could be overcome with enough effort.

Until I almost met a terrible fate at the hands of a mere goblin, and ended up owing my life to the lord I was supposed to protect.

.......

Now that we're even, shall we continue?

I'm pretty confident when it comes to embarrassing pasts. Without exaggeration, I could write an entire book...

...Ugh...?! Th-This heat......!?

Do you know why burning to death is the most painful way to die?

Because it is as slow and persistent as maggots eating away at your flesh while you are still alive.

I will engrave it upon your soul so you can never forget it, even in death.

Do not worry. It won't take very long.

I was hoping you'd finally show your true form, but have you taken on my appearance again even here?

You shouldn't be so shy when we've already shared our very souls...

...It looks like we're going to need a slightly longer 'chat'.

Hmph, chat all you want while you still can.

Because inside my flames... even death will feel like an eternity!

.......

If I do this like this, and that like that... And then do this again...!

I did it...!

Oh... Ooooh! Ooooooooh...!

Y-You did it! That's exactly what magic is...!

I-I knew you had talent, Agnes...! To learn what I taught you... th-this quickly...

You didn't actually teach me anything properly, Auntie.

Even when I asked you how to do it, you just told me to do it "like this, that, and like so."

And when I asked for tips, you just kept saying sorry.

Even when I told you to stop saying sorry, you just kept apologizing!

Ugh... w-well... I don't really know much about magic myself...

.......

Sorry...

.......

Sigh, forget it. I'll just figure it out on my own.

I set the table inside, so eat whenever you want. I've already eaten, so don't worry about me.

Y-Yeah... thank you.

And don't leave leftovers just because there's no meat, and make sure to brush your teeth, even if you have to use fire magic.

Ugh... I-I got it...!

And don't burn the whole bowl just to hide your leftovers!

Ugh... Ohhhhh...

Ahaha... I-I've somehow become the one being taken care of...

I-Is playing mother really too much for me after all...?

If it were Arshara... she would have done a much better job...

There you go again, talking about things only you know... I've never even met anyone besides you, Auntie.

You've put up a barrier and kept me locked up in this forest for years now.

Telling me it's dangerous outside, or that I'm not ready yet... saying the exact same things every single time.

The same scenery and the same daily routine every single day... without even giving me a proper reason!

I-I'm sorry... but it's all true...

It is truly dangerous outside right now... To the point where I-I might not be able to protect you...

B-But please wait just a little longer...!

Because I will make a world... where you can be free, Agnes...!

.......

...Sigh, you win, you win.

It's not like I don't trust you, Auntie. If you're telling lies that don't even suit your personality, you must have a good reason.

Besides, once I become as strong as you, everything will be solved anyway.

Yeah... thank you for believing in me...

And... I have one more favor to ask...

Could you call me... something other than A-Auntie...?

It just... how do I put this... makes me feel a bit uncomfortable...?

Huh? But you said you hated 'Granny.'

I learned that it's the proper title for an older female adult who isn't related to you by blood.

Th-Then at least call me by my name...!

Dragon names are too hard to pronounce.

Ah... w-well, that's true, but...

.......

...Sigh, fine. I can play the good girl as much as you want.

Let's see, what was it that you wanted me to call you again...?

Oh dear... I've been beaten again.

Burning to death is really no walk in the park. Even though I'm usually pretty good at enduring pain.

...Which time was that? I lost count after ten.

Indeed, even I couldn't be satisfied with just this.

I have already burned countless brats who were merely prepared to die.

But a bug that revives over and over like this is a first.

Was that a compliment? I'm honored to be recognized by a living legend.

Well, it's not much of a reward, but... since I unintentionally saw your past again.

Let's keep things fair and let me share another one of my embarrassing pasts with you.

You can look forward to it. Since you're involved in this one too.

...What?

As you may know, I was envious of Eli's "Red Dragon's Blessing".

Without even knowing the dangers it carried, I was just impatient, like a child coveting someone else's toy.

I thoroughly investigated all history and legends related to dragons.

.......

For example, the "Wrath War". A full-scale war between dragons and fairies that broke out when the first Dragon Lord, Arshara, disappeared.

Oberon united the persecuted spirits to establish Avalon, and became the Fairy Queen by giving them a new identity as 'fairies'.

And the dragons who lost the war were mostly exiled to the continent and divided.

What I just saw is a memory from that era, isn't it? That's why Karishara tried to protect you, even if it meant keeping you locked in the forest.

...Why does any of that matter now? Are you seriously trying to find a reason for my hatred?

To me, both dragons and fairies are nothing but hypocrites.

Every single one of them is just a puppet tied to the strings of that detestable "Witch".

Deciding who is right and who is wrong... judging the world with their half-baked justice.

Yes, you're right. Even my companions and I couldn't hear your true voice.

You were crying from the very beginning, and you cried out for help so many times.

You gave up on the truth, overwhelmed by the flames right in front of you.

.......

...What did you just say?

Oh, did you really not notice?

I don't need to see or hear to understand. This space is your memory, and it's a world that resembles me, your "vessel," more than any other.

If I were in your shoes, I probably would have broken down and cried my eyes out.

And if you had seen me like that, you probably would have approached me gently and spoken to me.

Because you don't need a reason to comfort a crying child.

.......

...Shut up.

......Ngh...!?

Shut up! Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!!!

Who do you think you're pitying, a pathetic human like you?! You're just a moth rushing in, not even knowing how hot the fire is!

Your petty wordplay ends here!

I will burn your soul over and over... and over again until it turns to ash!!!

.......

If I put this here, and that there... and then do this again...!

Hmm... Is this not it?

Ah, right...! This time, I'll do this like this, and that like that...!

Oh... I-I did it! I finally broke the barrier!

Hehehe... Honestly, Mother severely underestimates her daughter's talent.

Who could possibly threaten a genius who can break a Dragon Lord's barrier all by herself?

Alright, I'll go surprise Mother right now. And I'll prove that I can protect myself!

.......

... I-I should at least leave a note, right...?

.......

...That's weird. I definitely felt Mother's mana here.

D-Did I mistake it for another dragon...?!

Well, I've never met anyone other than Mother anyway.

Ugh... Should I go back now? But I finally made it outside the barrier...

L-Look, there's a spirit over there!

You bastard... How did you manage to sneak in here?!

...Huh-?! W-Wait...! I'm...!!

Can it already use magic...?!

Right, we can't let our guard down just because it looks young.

Hiding a dagger beneath an innocent face and stabbing your benefactor in the back is your kind's nature!!

N-No, it's not like that...! I was just trying to find my mother...!

Eeek-! D-Don't come any closer!!

Karishara! Where on earth are you right now?! How can a Dragon Lord just leave without a word!

My telepathic magic doesn't come cheap either! Maintaining contact like this is a huge burden!

I know it must be difficult to take Arshara's place, but you need to pull yourself together right now...

.......

N-No...

No, no, no, no... No!!!

Karishara?! What's going on...

Damn it... why now, of all times...!!

Haa... haa... haa...

M-Mother...?

Did... you do this...?

No...! I-I was just standing there, but they suddenly rushed at me!

.......

...Why, why are you looking at me like that...?

They were the ones who started it! I only...!!

I... I definitely put up... several layers of barriers...

Lest something like this would happen... I purposely didn't teach you anything...

Just... since when, and how...?

Ah... Ahhhhhhh...!!

.......

...You said your name was Agnes, right?

Did you really learn magic on your own and break through the barrier?

No matter how clumsy Karishara is with magic, your innate mana capacity should be on a different level.

Huh... A voice inside my head......?!

It's simple telepathic magic. This is an important question, so answer me properly.

Yeah... That's right. I had plenty of time to analyze the spell formulas.

There were three different, overlapping barriers layered in reverse.

So first... I separated the spell formula by dividing it into virtual layers... then back-calculated the constants from an assumed standard barrier, and did this and that...

.......

And... I know Mother is an incredibly powerful dragon, but...

...I-I'm all grown up now! Enough to protect myself...!!

Look, Mother...! I've already gotten this strong!

You said you were going to change the world for me, right, Mother...?! Then I'll help you!

I... I can fight by your side now...!!

.......

Eupi... W-What should we do now...?

...You already know the answer. Don't push even this kind of decision onto me.

Y-You're much smarter than me, Eupi...!

So surely... there must be a-another way...

Karishara, we are on the brink of war with the spirits, commonly known as the "fairies."

There's no way Arshara could have been defeated by mere spirits, but her disappearance in Avalon is a hard fact.

In this situation, the Dragon Lord was harboring and raising a dangerous spirit...

...What do you think will happen if word gets out that our own kin were sacrificed?

I know... I... I know that much too...!

B-But... but...!!

There are limits to authority that relies solely on raw power. Besides, Karishara, you aren't the type to act like a tyrant in the first place.

If you really can't make up your mind... I'll have to deal with it myself.

Y-You can't...!!

.......

...I'm sorry, Eupi. I know how much you've struggled for me... and how much you still are, but...

Just this once... humor my stubbornness...!

Karishara-?! What on earth are you doing......!

M-Mother...? What is this...?!

Ah-!? I-It's hot...!!

It's alright...! The pain will be over soon...!!

It's just a slightly longer dream... Yes, a very long dream...

Once the difficult problems... and all the scary things are resolved, I'll release the seal immediately...!

So please... just bear with it and wait for a little while...!

What do you mean by that?! I don't understand any of it!!

N-No... I hate the dark...!

No... No! No! No!!!

I'm sorry... I-I should have... spent so much more time with you...!

If I couldn't be honest... I should have at least been better at lying...

...You were anxious, weren't you? Because your mother didn't look after you properly.

Yes... I know how you feel...

Even though I knew... even though I understood your feelings as if they were my own...

...Once again, I missed what was truly important.

I'm sorry, Mother! I'll never go outside on my own again!

Y-Yes...! You need a good girl, right...?!

...I can do that too! I just need a little practice...!!

So please... please...!

...Don't abandon me!!!

.......

...But the war ultimately ended in the fairies' victory.

Whatever it was Oberon did, even Karishara lost her memories and went into hiding.

And you, who had been sealed, were handed over to Oberon...

......Stop it!!!

...You had to repeat an eternal struggle as the "calamity" that burns the world and the "trial" that tests the hero of the Holy Sword.

Without being permitted victory or defeat, life or death.

Floundering in a "curse" where you couldn't even speak the truth.

...Are you trying to speak of understanding to me now?

I don't care if thousands or tens of thousands of years have passed! I don't care if I need that much more time in the future!

I am immortal! If eternal struggle is my destiny, then I only need to grow stronger forever!!!

Once I burn all the heroes of the Holy Sword and become the true calamity to replace the God of Destruction...

...That "Witch" will eventually show herself.

Yes, and that is the strangest part.

Despite all your talk of struggle and calamity, in the end, all you did was follow Oberon's script.

......What?

You ruthlessly burned those who came at you... but nothing more.

In every history, in every legend, you faithfully carried out your role as the hero's "trial."

Even though you could have easily burned down an entire nation if you wanted to.

...I just didn't want to waste my power on useless things.

If I kill every last puppet of the Holy Sword, it will drag that bitch out eventually...

Is that so? If you really wanted to drag Oberon out, wouldn't it have been faster to just burn Avalon to the ground?

Or how about targeting Morgana? Oberon's prize disciple and successor just happens to have lost her power.

...You bitch, what exactly are you trying to say?

Oh, right! It might be even better to just kill every human who could possibly become the hero of the Holy Sword.

If Oberon's goal really is to protect the world, she would have had to step in herself to stop you.

.......

Of course, there's no way a genius who broke a Dragon Lord's barrier on her own wouldn't know this.

...There's no way you didn't know, so why did you avoid crossing that line for so long?

Ever since my body was first taken by you, and since you tried to reveal the truth of the Holy Sword to everyone...

...I've been thinking about this contradiction the whole time.

Without even realizing that the answer was within me all along.

.......

I... I...

You wanted to be acknowledged by your mother, didn't you? By becoming strong enough to fear absolutely nothing.

...That's not it!

And because you knew what your mother disliked, no matter how painful and lonely it was, you tried to keep yourself from crossing the line.

S-Shut up! What do you know about me...!

Because you hated yourself for making the worst choice, and because you found yourself pathetic for still holding onto lingering regrets.

Because even if you couldn't be loved anymore... you couldn't give up on loving her.

......!!

....Yes, we really are the same. I sought you out for the exact same reason.

You see, I haven't really changed much from back then either.

"Knight of the Round Table," "Colosseum Champion"... or even "vessel of the Flame Emperor."

Just a child who believes she won't be loved by the ones she loves unless she wraps herself in all kinds of grand titles.

Quiet...

You don't have to be a genius.

Your mother wouldn't abandon you just because you aren't great at magic.

Shut up... I said shut up!

Anyone can make a mistake.

But as long as you don't forget what truly matters, you can stand back up as many times as it takes.

Please... stop...!!

Karishara was certainly an inexperienced mother.

But that's no reason for a child to stop loving their parent.

Just as I did, and as you did...

...Just like we all have this entire time.

I... I...!!!

.......

...You can cry, Agnes. At least I won't blame you.

I know as well that our sins can never be forgiven.

To the lives that perished in your flames and mine... any words we say would sound like nothing but mockery and excuses.

B-But... there might have been... another way... and yet...!

At some point... I just couldn't think of anything anymore...

You were scared, right? So you tried to burn everything that frightened you.

S-Still...! I shouldn't have... I shouldn't have done that...

Yes, we will be judged one day.

But we can at least understand, and be understood.

Because what was done to you is an unforgivable tragedy.

W-What meaning does that have now...?

What has once been burned... can never, ever return...

And in the end... this is the only thing I'm capable of doing...!

Does a flame need a reason to live as a flame?

.......

W-What does that...

If I am your vessel, you can understand me too.

Because we both have far too much pride to run away into death or oblivion.

You don't want to just take it lying down, do you? Even if we die, we want to land a solid blow first.

.......

Forgiveness? Regret? Atonement? Sure, they're important.

But if we were any good at those things, we wouldn't have ended up like this in the first place, would we?

We've already put it off for thousands, tens of thousands of years anyway...

...What's the big deal if we put it off for just a few more years?

Hmph, how shameless...

Yes, just like you.

Like how you coveted my power without knowing your place?

Heh, you think it's any different now?

Don't sound so carefree. This is a matter of your life, not to mention your soul.

When two different souls intertwine, no one can predict what will happen.

Last time, it only took a toll on your lifespan, but...

...In the worst case, we could both go mad or simply die.

Or, an invincible knight who fears nothing might be born.

.......

...Childish.

Oh, isn't it about time you accepted it?

No matter how much you pretend to be an adult now, you're just a kid, same as me.

It's a bit annoying, but... I think so too.

So I think I know what you want to do right now.

Hmm? And what is it that I want to do?

First, let's burn that arrogant lizard to a crisp.

Oh, not bad. And next is Oberon, I assume?

Yeah, we definitely have to burn that creepy Witch too.

I don't care about the consequences, so let's pour in all our strength at maximum firepower.

Exactly, even if we end up crumbling to ash in the end.

Because burning proudly to the very end is the destiny of a flame.

Hey, Morgana! Is this really going to be okay?!

Flames started erupting the moment I stabbed the sword into Kay!

Well, that's because we basically ripped the lid off a blast furnace!

We've done everything we can! Now we just have to pray that Kay gets along well with that monster!

Damn it... Then how long do we have to hold out?!

I don't know!

What?! What do you mean by that...!

The flow of time in the world of memories is different from reality! And it varies wildly depending on the soul!

Depending on how deep and intimate the memories are, it could end in a few seconds, or take several years!

W-Well... several years might be impossible, but......!

But I can hold out for a few hours! Everyone, please trust me!

You might be fine, but me and this glutton certainly aren't!

Wait, don't tell me we have to leave the sword stabbed into Kay like this?!

Of course! Do you think I call it the "Key Sword" for no reason?!

Hey! Then what am I supposed to fight with?!

.......

...U-Uh, you actually have a good point?!

Don't "good point" me!!!

Well, it is nice to see you refusing to give up until the very end.

But whatever tricks you try now, it's useless.

Because the grudge within those flames is not something people like you can even begin to fathom.

Striking her down in a single blow would be for her own good as well...

...Hm?

Ah, hot! Hot-! W-What is this?! The flames suddenly...!!

My goodness, they don't just get along well, it seems they were a match made in heaven.

Get over here quickly, you pig! If you stay there, you're going to get roasted to a crisp!

Give up on your foolish dreams. Do you think there haven't been attempts to tame that monster before?

Let alone a mere human...

......!!!

You haven't changed a bit, now or in the past.

To look down on the world like a chessboard, yet tremble with fear at every single move... What a pathetic sight.

Heh, not that I'm looking down on you, though.

Understanding fear... is a surprisingly rare talent.

.......

K-Kay-?! You're really Kay, right-?!

And this blazing mana is...!!

Haha, looks like you had an absolutely amazing trip.

Can we take a break now and just watch from here? Or should we do play-by-play commentary again?

What commentary? All the spectators fled. Ethan, you're useless now, so just go grab some popcorn.

The champion of Cameliard has returned, so the least we can do is bear witness, shouldn't we?

Oh my, getting such a grand welcome is making me fired up too.

A glorious stage and a worthy opponent. Along with a story woven from coincidence, inevitability, and ill-fated bonds.

Perhaps this very match will become the legend of Cameliard.

How about it, challenger? Can you feel this boiling heat as well?

...Yes, I feel it. The ferocious mana that reduced our forest to ashes that day.

I thought your soul would have shattered long ago, but to think you still have your sanity after being struck by that "Witch's" curse.

No, as you said, this child's soul was indeed broken.

It was rough and shabby, like a rusted, broken blade. With so many missing fragments, you couldn't even force them back together.

But if there's a piece that fits perfectly, as if they were originally one...

...All you have to do is melt them down and forge them anew in the fire.

.......

Sigh... This is why I didn't want to get involved in human wars.

Despite their short lifespans, they always create unexpected variables, and they don't even have consistency.

Oh, was that a compliment just now?

I'm flattered to be recognized by a living legend.

I don't know if you're currently Kay, or Agnes... or neither.

But with a conclusion this dramatic, I have no choice but to concede.

Yes, this time, it is my loss. Because if I fight you here, Cameliard will be wiped off the map.

And it would be troublesome if Lucius died while I drag this out.

Heh, that's a relief. I didn't want to melt down this Colosseum either.

Will you permit us to retreat? On the condition that the Emperor and all the Knights of the Holy Fire return safely.

Hmm, not a bad offer.

But I am merely a single knight. I cannot make such a crucial decision on behalf of the Queen.

...Though, of course, the companions whom Eli absolutely trusts are an exception.

Okay, retreat permitted.

I want to go wash up and rest quickly, so make it snappy.

Ooooh... I'm so glad it ended without any trouble...!

I tried my best to act fine, but... I-I was actually at my limit too......

No! Not yet!!

Just one shot... Just let me fire one "Dragon Explosion"!!!

I haven't even landed a single hit on that arrogant lizard yet...

You heard her, right? Hurry up and run before Morgana's patience runs out.

Of course, you'd better not even dream of trying anything funny.

Unless you want the Ygritte Empire reduced to ashes, that is.

Well... I don't really care what happens to the humans, but I dislike being hot too.

That's all for today's story. Even if it wasn't the ending I wanted, a plot twist like this isn't bad once in a while.

Farewell then. I'm already looking forward to the day we meet again.