Epica's Story

Welcome one, welcome all! Thank you for coming!

Today's tale is of a heart-racing adventure!

Ooooo!

The time, an autumn night, when the windmill constellation graced the eastern sky.

Great flames burned, and an evil horde rose up against Sprite Kingdom!

An evil horde...?

Just then, a meteor blazed across the sky as the Master made their entrance!

The Sprite Queen and Head Priestess, recognizing the figure, decided to join forces.

Word of their reputation spread, and soon they were joined by three brave adventurers...

Marie the Explorer, Ashur the Wizard, and Mayo the Collector!

S-She called me a wizard! *Sniff!*

United, the six charged forth and shattered the palace gates with their unmatched might!

The evil horde was sent fleeing in terror!

And thus, peace was restored to Sprite Kingdom!

Didn't they just run away though?

Something seems off.

Listen here, storyteller! That story was pretty basic!

Yeah! You skipped almost everything regarding that first gathering of companions!

And why are we the evil horde? Our rebellion was just!

Oh, uh, p-please calm down...!

All I've done is weave some of the rumors going around into a tale...!

Trust me, this will be a tale worth your time! Hear me out a bit longer, for I've hardly begun!

The six who brought peace to Sprite Kingdom made their way to Werebeast Village.

Werebeast Village was suffering under the tyranny of the Tiger Clan.

The Master and the party could not turn a blind eye. No, they were set on helping the Werebeasts reclaim their freedom!

They found themselves locked in a fateful showdown with the Tiger Clan's Elite Four!

Tiger Clan...? What's that?

Does she mean Tig and her gang? Aren't they called the Chow Rebels?

Kommy of the Elite Four was a shrewd and eloquent werebeast!

However, hollow words hold no sway against an unstoppable force!

The sheer power of Ashur the Wizard left her with no choice but to surrender!

T-That's...!

Ahh... Er... But none can deny that Ashur's whereabouts were a mystery, yes?!

Please understand, I only mean to weave a tale with a bit more flair!

That seems a bit different from what I've heard.

When Kommy recounted the tale to me... there was a role reversal that led to some common ground...

Beni, the second one of the Elite Four, was a strong werebeast!

Though the party was on the brink of failure, Mayo's stroke of brilliance led the battle into a battle of endurance!

Exhausted from her own efforts, Beni crumbled, and victory was theirs once more!

Hmm... Yeah, I think I did fall asleep back then.

The third of the Elite Four they faced was none other than Butter!

A werebeast who would hide her terrifying true nature behind a mask of innocence!

Butter is kind! Butter isn't terrifying!

Ah, exactly! That was her weakness!

She had even fallen for her own deception...! Exploiting this, the party sets her against the last of the Elite Four, Rufo!

The last two of the Elite Four turned upon each other, leading to their own downfall!

That's it for my part? What kind of story is this?!

Captain! Are you okay with a story like this? Come on, say something!

Uh... As long as it sounds cool, does the truth really matter?

Argh! You're just looking forward to your upcoming part, aren't you?!

At long last, the Master came to stand before the chief of the Tiger Clan!

But what's this? The captain of the Tiger Clan was nothing more than a paper tiger!

She was nothing more than a puppet controlled by the elves!

Chow Rebels! Prepare to attack!

Huh, attack?! All of a sudden?!

You dare twist my tale like this?! You didn't even mention my name! This is unacceptable!

Ahhh! W-What are you doing?!

She's a fraud! Get her! Also, I want a refund!

This performance was free to begin with!

I don't care! A refund makes things better for me, so gimme my money!

Huh? Money? She's giving away money? I-I'll take some too!

Ahhh! Don't just stand there! Please come save me, Master!

Ahh... Ahh...

Ah-ah-ah! Ah-ah! O, how wonderful the weather is today!

The air is a bit crisp... but nothing sparks inspiration quite like an open space such as this!

It's been some time, but I'll practice my singing... and weave a brand-new tale!

Now, then... Ahem! Do... re... mi...!

Eek! Stop! What are you doing?!

Huh?

You're going to cause an avalanche if you shout like that!

Why, if it isn't Lady Aya, the Sage of Elemental Mountain!

I'd heard you lived on Elemental Mountain, but this close to the summit...?!

Er, yes, that's right.

Who are you and how did you get all the way up here? Didn't the wind elementals stop you?

It's a pleasure to meet you! I am Epica!

Roaming far and wide through Elias has its perks... such as knowing how to move around obstacles with ease!

I didn't come up here to cause trouble, so please look the other way, haha!

Hmm... Well, fine.

Epica, you say...? You must be the storyteller who recently joined the Order. Pleased to meet you too.

If you stay here too long, someone is bound to stir up some trouble with you... I'll keep you company.

No one will start anything if we say I invited you here.

Wow! Really? What a lovely, kind heart you have!

Oh, don't mention it. I'm merely providing hospitality to a guest. It's nothing.

Er... Um...

Uh, is something wrong all of a sudden?

A-Ah, no! Never mind! Haha!

Anyway... I can't believe I'm finally meeting the Venerable Sage I've only heard about!

Each time word of you reached me and I set out to find you, I would arrive only to learn you had already returned home...

Seems we've kept missing each other.

Now that you've joined the Order, you won't have to look for me so hard in the future.

I've been going down to the surface quite often now that the Order was created.

By the way... what brought you all the way up to this isolated peak?

Every so often, I tend to seek out places like this, far from all the noise...

To take a step back from the world and be in silence... As if I don't exist.

At times I yearn for this feeling... Where it's like I'm watching the world go by just fine without me.

Hmm...

Oh, did that sound a bit depressing? That wasn't quite what I was going for!

How should I put it...? It's like the longing you feel for a hometown you can't return to just yet...

A distant kind of longing, overwhelming but calm... you know?

I think I understand what you mean.

Really?

Hmm... I never really gave it much thought...

But I feel like I am familiar with that.

Odd... It's as if a little bit of something long forgotten has come back to me.

This is the first time I've met someone who understands me!

So, Venerable Sage... would you like to delve deeper and explore more of that feeling?

Hmm... No, I don't think so.

I don't think I should delve any deeper. I get the feeling that it could be a bit dangerous...

Psh... what could be dangerous about it?

It's something I've always thought about, but the answer never comes to me clearly!

Really? If so... that's a relief.

Hmm... You remind me of her for some reason.

Who?

I think one of my sisters was just like you.

She was filled with curiosity... And loved to talk.

You have a lost sister? What does she look like?

Hmm, never mind. There is no point in talking about it.

Aside from that... Aren't you cold? I'm used to this, but it might be too much for you.

Oh, haha! It is a little cold!

My house is nearby, so let's head inside.

I'll make you a hot cup of tea.

Really?! Thank you!

Once upon a time, in a time long forgotten...

Seven sprouts bloomed in a corner of the forest.

These seven sprouts, having opened their eyes anew, outwardly cherished one another...

But they secretly envied and vied against one another.

They each wished to gain the favor of the gardener who took care of them...

To receive the most love and grow the tallest.

The first sprout boasted of her wisdom.

When presented with something, she would express calm and caution...

Catching details the other sprouts overlooked and pointing them out.

However, her tendency to speak in a convoluted way failed to win the gardener's favor.

The second sprout boasted of her adaptability.

No matter where she found herself or what lay around her...

She could plant her roots firmly and thrive.

However, the gardener found no value in this, for the sprouts were only meant to thrive within the confines of the beautiful flowerbed.

The third sprout boasted of her eloquence.

The sprout knew how to embellish even the simplest things into a grand performance.

But... her obsession with having fun went a bit far sometimes.

To the gardener, such effort from a mere sprout felt excessive. It was a sorrowful sight.

The fourth sprout boasted of her warmth.

She tended not only to the gardener but also to her fellow sprouts.

Selflessly sacrificing her own water and sunlight...

She grew frail and unremarkable. The gardener, seeing this, could only sigh in concern.

The fifth sprout boasted of her appearance.

She came out to be the fairest of them all, so she really stood out.

The gardener showed her the most love. But... that turned into an obsession.

She constantly lingered nearby, becoming a nuisance to the gardener, who began to feel burdened.

The sixth sprout neither bragged nor spoke a single word.

No one knows why.

Perhaps she watched as the others strove too hard, only to be overlooked in the end?

In the beginning, the gardener tried to get her to seek more attention, but soon, they stopped trying.

The seventh sprout boasted of her happiness.

She believed herself to be happy and wished the same for the gardener.

Ultimately, however, no one was able to find happiness.

Happiness that blossoms in isolation holds no meaning.

They were all gifted and they were all lacking.

However, they all wanted to be loved... To be seen, to be chosen.

While they considered themselves sisters, jealousy often led them to quarrel.

Only after they realized it was all meaningless...

Did they realize that in the end, all they had was each other.

And so, they closed their eyes as one.

Much like the mayfly, they were born for a day and were gone by night.

But in their eternal slumber, they became etched in eternity as the Eternal Life.

And when they opened their eyes, they were already leaving.

When they returned to that place once more, they found no one there.

.........

Yes! It obviously sounded like the ending, did it not?

Hmm... Yes, it's sad. It certainly is.

It is the saddest tale that I have ever crafted.

Well... I'm not exactly sure what to call it...

It is the very first tale I've woven, but it is a bit strange to call it my own experience.

I mean, it just popped into my head, but I don't recall ever experiencing anything like that, you know?

Inspiration sure is strange, isn't it?

If you're looking for a moral in this story, I suppose something like... 'Don't take things for granted' could work.

Personally, I think it's more important for a story to be fun and entertaining.

I don't really weave tales starting with some meaning in mind.

There are seven races in Elias... so something like "they must all get along" maybe?

Hmm... Actually, that makes sense...

Eh, whatever. Stop making it so complicated, Master!

It doesn't matter whether a story is true or false, meaningful or meaningless...

A story shines only when you take it for what it is... a story.

Huh? No! I'd be showered in tomatoes if I ever performed this tale!

Aww, if someone like you told this tale, the audience would understand...

But most crowds love tales with a bit of rough-and-tumble!

That's why I'll be telling the tale of "The Master and the Bread Beast" tomorrow!

Get ready for it! Haha!

Now then, Master! Here are today's complaints—ah, I mean, missions.

Yet, they carry a different air, do they not? I simply wished to ensure you gave them the consideration they deserve, Master.

Oh-ho? Oooh! You've received a mission?

Epica, it is all well and good if you wish to stay at the Order, but you must not enter this office whenever you please...

What kind of mission have you taken on today? I'll accompany you and keep a record of it all!

Hmm, I believe there is quite a bit you could learn from Epica, Master.

Such drive and ambition...!

At any rate, this arrangement is ideal. We have been seeking a scribe to record your actions, Master, and Epica looks to be an excellent choice.

Marvelous, just marvelous! I will gladly undertake a task like that!

Well then, Master, I shall leave today's missions in your capable hands.

So... where to now?

Urgh! Master! Do something about the sprites!

Oh-ho! A robbery? A thief that stole a precious book of magic?!

No, nothing like that... The sprites don't wash their hands before browsing these records!

That's not it...! They keep on handling the books with their sugar-coated hands!

I mean, come on... I've never had to wash books before!

We have to dry them page by page... Please help, Master!

E-Er...? That's it...?

Diaries? There are about ten of them! Looks like they're illustrated diaries.

Er... Okay! Help... the Master... dry books...!

U-Urgh...

T-This isn't what I had in mind...!

Something a bit more breathtaking! That was the adventure I had in mind...!

Whaaat? This is... the norm?

The greatest adventure is... cleaning books? You've only been doing stuff like this all this time...?

So things like that don't occur all the time?

Normally you only do menial tasks like this...?

Oh... Oh-ho... That does make sense...

So, what you're saying is... these small moments come together and turn into something monumental?

Urgh... Maybe I was expecting too much...

Erm... Okay.

Wonderful! We will take care of the rest. Good job, Master!

What mission awaits this time? Is it a monumental one this time...?

Oh-ho? The task this time seems somewhat important!

Welcome, Master.

So, what is the matter at hand? What momentous decision must you make?

Sigh... I've never struggled this much over a decision.

It's like a chaotic whirlwind is swirling through my mind.

Eeeep! Out with it! Hurry!

Are you at a great turning point in life? Or... maybe a midlife crisis?!

Er... I... I don't know whether to...

Whether to have a strawberry-flavored block or an apple-flavored one for breakfast tomorrow!

Er, what? W-What was that again...?

I feel like if I don't pick the right one, it'll ruin my entire day tomorrow!

That's it?! Your request was for the Order to help you pick out breakfast?!

Tomorrow is my long-awaited day off... I can't have it ruined first thing in the morning, can I?

You understand, right, Master?

Well then hurry up and help me choose, hehe!

Oh, that's a great idea! I always have strawberry-flavored blocks on hand!

Apple in the morning is always good, isn't it?

Wait, you're seriously choosing one for her?!

Thank you, Master!

Uhhh... Master...? A nap? What are you talking about?

When, oh when, will we embark on a monumental adventure...?

Sniff...

Hmm... Umm...

Ahh! Master!

Ah... Haha... Nothing much... Urgh...

I was trying to decode the words... I thought they might conceal some hidden meaning.

Hmm... That's true, but...

Even so, it's hard to believe they would have you handle such undignified tasks, Master...

I still can't fully understand it.

Oh... You're right!

I mean... It's happened before, where the smallest things have completely shaken Elias.

Staying consistent and following through on even the most minor tasks—that's what truly counts...!

I think I understand what you mean! Small things can lead to bigger things... Yes...!

Sure! I'll be right behind you!

Whatcha looking at?

Yeah, so what? Hmph, can't a queen file a complaint?

Ah, Your Majesty? It's been a while!

Uh... sure, long time no see, story-babbler.

Urgh, babbler...?!

Have you discovered a new magical mineral or something? If Your Majesty requested something, it must be something impressive...

Butterflies...

Let's catch butterflies... It's boring to do it alone.

Catch... butterflies...?

You know Ner. She would have said something if I'd gone about it like that!

Sneaking you out here is the only way to have some fun without her knowing, hehe!

Are... you trying to eat them? Are they magical butterflies that make you stronger?

Um, I'm not that weird!

I'm just here to have a good time... like it's a picnic!

Er... a picnic...? Yeah, sure, a picnic... That's great...

Phew, hehe, I caught so many. Let's dig in now!

Worded like that, it really sounds like you're about to feast on the butterflies...

Wow, you're a pain! I already said I wasn't! I only meant I brought some baked goods!

Here, look! I had Ashur pack me the "Queen's Course" this morning!

Of course not. I had Ashur deliver it here, too.

I charged the delivery fee to the Order, so it should be fine. Handle it, will ya?

Oh-ho. A basket full of delicious baked goods! It's been a while since I've had some decent food...

Yikes!

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

My Queen's Course...? No... Noooo...!

Ah! They're all crushed...? W-What should I do...? I-I'm sorry!

Listen... Starting today, we're enemies, got it?

I'll pay you back! A few performances, and I'll have the money in no time!

Pay me back? The nerve!! You can't buy food like this with money!

Why are you so angry...? Was my mistake really that bad?

Get out of my sight, this instant! It's hard enough being Queen as it is...!!

HMPH! I don't want to you see either, Master! I hate you both!

H-Her Majesty's really angry, isn't she...? Urgh...

R-Really?

Urgh... I feel bad...

Right? What should I do? I never imagined I'd become hated by the ruler of Sprite Kingdom!

What do you think I should do?

Cookies? But... I crushed so many of her baked goods.

I feel like it wouldn't compare...

Are you sure that would be enough? She really looked upset...

Er... O-Okay.

I can't believe such a small thing snowballed into something this monumental...

Wait... Small things... can lead to something monumental?

N-Nothing! Nothing at all! W-Where do you have to go for your next task?

Welcome, Master! I recently bought a bunch of stuff and I need help organizing them!

What do you mean? Bombs, of course!

It's my stuff... I would've expected you to realize...

Bombs...?

O-Okay!

Hmm... Small things... can lead to something monumental...

I think I've realized something, Master.

When performing as a storyteller, I'll sometimes change the tale a bit if the reaction from the audience isn't the greatest.

And so... an idea came to me...

What if... this reality we live in... with me as its narrator... I could change the course of the story by taking control?

I could create my own monumental moment, couldn't I?

If there are no incidents, I can just create one!

I'll set one off right now!

Huh? Why isn't it blowing up?

That's because the explosives have safety devices on them.

Just dropping it won't do anything.

In most cases.

Look carefully. You have to ignite it like this for it to actually detonate.

Master...!

I-I'm not the one who did it!

Erm... I was hoping for something monumental to happen...

I wanted to see you in action, Master...!

I always thought that when something burns, it marks the start of something new.

*Cough*... Master...?

T-That was the best blast I've seen in a while.

To be honest, I kind of wanted to see for myself what kind of blast that pile of bombs would make if it all exploded at once.

Master?

Just as expected... wherever trouble brews, you are always right in the middle of it, Master.

An unusually costly delivery fee found its way to the Order this morning...

And now, I discover you in the midst of an explosion at the heart of the kingdom... Surely, this is no mere coincidence?

You will take full responsibility for all of this, right... Master?

M-Master?..! I think I did it!

I think it's finally happened! I've managed to create a tale where you take center stage, Master!

The protagonist is faced with adversity... now all that's left is to overcome it!

I believe I've created a new formula for storytelling!

A trove of material that never runs dry!

Ooow! That hurt! Why did you do that?!