Kei's Episode

Kei? Did you come to see Elizabeth?

Hehe, that's what I intended, but Eli wasn't around. It seemed strange to leave, so I came to have tea with you.

Tea? What kind is it?

I brought a rare tea from across the sea for Eli. The locals call it coffee...

Coffee...!

Me! I want to drink it!

Huh? You really seem to like it, Ethan. Could it be that you know about tea ceremonies?

I'm not familiar with tea ceremonies, but when it comes to coffee, I know my stuff. It's actually been hard to find it around here, so it's been a bit of a struggle.

That's interesting. I didn't expect coffee to be familiar to you.

This is said to be enjoyed in many different ways. Do you know that?

Of course, I know. Wow... it's already roasted? They must have sent it after processing it.

The scent is great. It looks like you brought it at just the right time.

Hehe, you look happy.

Well, it's one of the things I missed. Hold on, I'll make it for you.

First, break up the roasted beans finely... then, set the paper to filter it like this... and pour in hot water...

So, it's not just about pouring the water right away.

I'm no expert, but I think doing it this way allows you to enjoy the full effects and flavor.

It's done. Here you go, Kei.

Thank you, Ethan.

Be careful, you might find it a bit bitter.

Hmm... I've had it before, but is there a way to make it less bitter?

Two spoons of sugar should be just right.

Alright, let's give it a try... slurp...

...! The flavor is really good.

Haha, right?

You can add some milk. There's also a way of drinking it like this. It should blend well and not kill the flavor. I'll add a little honey too.

I'll try it now... slurp...

Ah... it goes down smoothly. It's not bitter at all.

Glad you like it.

I didn't know you had this skill, Ethan.

slurp...

Ah... I feel like I'm alive again...

It's nothing special, just a basic skill for a busy professional. But having it here feels different.

Hehe, I see.

I was a bit disappointed that Eli wasn't here, but it worked out. I brought some snacks, so shall we chat for a bit?

Sure, I'm good with that. I'll bring something to go with it.

I also once chased after power.

Was it because of Elizabeth showing the blessing of the Red Dragon?

That's right. We grew up together, so I thought we'd grow side by side, but before I knew it, she had that kind of power.

So I tried everything I could to get stronger. Especially after Britannia was swept up in the chaos.

When I returned from my training, I wanted to be a great help to Eli.

Hmm... It seems like you really care about Elizabeth. Slurp...

Hehe, of course. Slurp...

Your power... You said it's from the Flame Emperor, right?

Yes. I couldn't find the Red Dragon, but I thought the Flame Emperor's power would be just as fitting, as it's incredibly powerful.

It took me 10 years to contain that power within my body...

But...

Britannia has already fallen into the hands of Vortigern...

Yes...

Still, I'm relieved Eli is safe. As long as she's well, my power will be of use.

How much we'll fight together, though... I don't know.

Why? Didn't you come to fight by her side?

That's true, but...

To gain the Flame Emperor's power, I pushed my body too hard for a long time...

What's the issue?

I might not have been a strong enough vessel for that kind of power... I fought while draining my own life force.

Kei... Does that mean...

Yeah... I probably won't live long. Maybe... not much time left.

Does Elizabeth know about this?

No... I didn't want to tell Eli. So, Ethan, I'd prefer if you're the only one who knows.

Don't give up. There's gotta be a way. This world is full of magic and spells.

But no magic can change the time given to a person.

Witches and ancient creatures have enormous power, right? Maybe they could do something... Or if not, the power of the gods...

How about a relic? A relic could bring a miracle!

It's already progressed too far. Once it's mixed with the soul of the Flame Emperor, no method will work.

Still, I appreciate you caring...

Hang in there, Kei... I'll stay by your side and support you so you won't be lonely.

I'm not dying right now, hehe.

I'm grateful just hearing that. But honestly, I'm happy enough just having tea with you.

You... you're more sentimental than I thought, huh?

Hehe, it's probably a bit awkward for you, right? This might be quite a thrill for you, Ethan... Hehe!

Right. How about we have some tea and take a walk around the village? I heard a new sweet dessert shop opened, and I'm curious.

Well... if you want to...

Hehe, sounds good.

Uh, uhh...

It's kinda awkward if you just stare at me like that. You're low-key showing interest, huh?

...Hey, why are you suddenly being so forward?

How absurd... What are you talking about? Obviously, I'm acting this way because it's a date atmosphere, right?

So, it's a kind of responsibility as a date mate...?

That, and because I have feelings for you. Do you not like me?

No way! You're a beautiful lady with a stunning figure, how could I not like you?

I was just wondering... if something's changed. There are some things I'm worried about.

Hehe, don't worry too much. Just drink some herbal tea. This cake is sweet and soft.

Hey, Kei.

Yes?

Remember that time we were sparring... and you coughed up blood? It's not because you've been using your power too much because of me, right?

Hehe, no, that's not it. It just got worse from the shock... It hasn't accelerated.

And I'm not that weak. Hmm... To you, Ethan, I might look like I'm on the brink every day, but heh!

...The reason I'm always worrying is because of the people around me.

There was a time I wanted to run away because I wasn't sure if I'd ever make it home.

But now, after working for 10 years to gain power...

When I see you, I can't help but think you're amazing.

But in return, my life is fading. Strong power always comes with a price.

That's...

...Ethan.

You're much stronger and more amazing than you think.

So, just keep moving forward. And if you're spending time with me because you're worried about me...

I just like being with you. You don't need to apologize or feel awkward.

Well, I'm glad to hear that...

How can I not worry when one of Elizabeth's closest companions doesn't know how much time she has left?

Ethan...

Like I said, I still have plenty of time left. So please treat me like you always have, Ethan.

If you say so...

Anyway, if something bad happens, make sure to tell me, Kei.

I will.

You're... much better than I thought.

Better than you thought... How did you see me?

Someone unreliable? A bad guy trying to use Elizabeth? An immature knight? And...

Hey, that's enough. It hurts so bad that I feel like I'm going to cough up blood too...

Why is my perception like this?

In these troubled times, people are always suspicious of and belittle others. Plus, the rumors about the Swordbringer were exaggerated.

But from now on, I'll see you properly. So, try to have more confidence in yourself.

Thanks...

It's been a while since we'll fight together, Kei.

I'm excited. Before, we fought separately, but this time, I'll be right next to Eli to help her.

And...

I get to hold a spear by your side.

It's an honor to hear such words from a knight with the power of the Flame Emperor.

This fight is important.

Rallying the alliance and securing the south was tough, but now we need to prepare to head north to deal with Vortigern and Tiamat Church.

Our comrades in the north must be getting ready too.

Right. So... we must win, Kei!

Yes!

You're okay, right?

Perfect. I've rested enough, but now I feel a little rusty, though.

Haha, good.

Ethan... I'm glad you're here.

Huh?

Because I can trust you to watch my back. I think it's a good thing that you're by Eli's side.

Even if I'm not here... I know Eli will be fine with you.

Kei...

I'm nothing more than an outsider. Elizabeth needs you by her side, so don't say things like that.

Hehe, aren't you getting too serious? I'm still doing fine, you know.

You're really fun to tease. Especially with that expression of yours.

You're like a naughty older sister bullying her younger brother...

I guess I have to keep pushing through, especially for you. I'll keep fighting so I can stay by your side.

Yeah...

But I... I want you to stay with us too. Always...

I wish I could, but who knows? For now, let's focus on the enemy right in front of us.

Kei, you...

Don't worry, Ethan.

Anyway, I won't give up. I want to be by Eli's side... and yours too. That's what I want.

Yeah...

Then... I'll be counting on you.

Yes. Hehe!