Volume 12 : Chapter 8 – THE UNSEEN ABOVE (1)

My vision slowly returned, but the world refused to stay still.

At first, it felt as though I'd been strapped to an Insanity Ride and hurled through the sky for hours without end. My stomach churned, my head pounded, and a sharp ringing filled my ears.

For several seconds, I couldn’t even tell which way was up as I continued falling through a dark tunnel.

Darkness surrounded me, and the air reeked of blood. Slowly, the ringing in my ears faded, only to be replaced by a terrible silence.

Then, at last, my eyes focused. And I wished they hadn't.

"N… Natsu…"

My voice cracked.

Several meters away, Natsu lay motionless on the ground, a pool of blood spreading beneath him. His body was covered in cuts and torn flesh, his clothes shredded apart, one arm twisted beneath him at an unnatural angle.

For a moment, my mind simply refused to process what I was seeing. Natsu? The same Natsu who never stopped talking, who laughed at everything, my idiot twin brother who would be arguing with me for all the little things in this world all the time?

"Brother…" My throat tightened as I looked around. "Shou…"

A second body lay nearby. Shou wasn't moving either. His sword had fallen from his grasp, and his chest wasn't rising.

There was no response. Not even a twitch.

No. No. No. The word repeated endlessly inside my head. This couldn't be happening. Not them. Not like this.

My gaze darted around frantically. “Athys, where are you?”

With her magic, she could have easily healed them, but she was nowhere to be seen.

Themis was gone too. And Uranus had vanished as well.

Where were they? What happened here?

"I need to help them..."

I tried to push myself forward to reach out to them, but then pain exploded through my body.

A violent cough tore from my throat—“Kh-kho! Kh-kho!”—and something warm splattered across my hand. My blood.

My whole body froze. My breathing turned uneven; each breath felt like dragging shattered glass through my lungs.

What happened? Who did this?

I needed to help them. I needed to save them. If I could just use divination—

My trembling fingers reached toward my pocket. The necklace. I just needed my necklace. But halfway there, my hand stopped. Something felt wrong.

A strange warmth was spreading across my abdomen, slowly.

I lowered my gaze, and my thoughts stopped.

There was a hole. A gaping hole, straight through my stomach. For a few seconds, my mind refused to understand what my eyes were showing it.

Blood poured from the wound in endless streams, the torn flesh twitching with every ragged breath. I could see clean through parts of it.

No… no… this wasn't real.

My fingers drifted toward the wound, and the instant they touched it, unimaginable pain detonated through me.

I couldn't even scream. Couldn't even form words. All I could do was gasp desperately for air.

"Natsu…" My voice was barely a whisper now.

Please move. Please say something. Please.

The world blurred. My limbs grew heavier and colder.

Was I... really dying?

The realization arrived with terrifying clarity. And there was nothing I could do.

Shrkkkk…..

Then a dazzling crackling light appeared behind me. At first, it was nothing more than a faint glow, but it expanded—brighter, brighter, brighter—until the darkness itself seemed to retreat before it. I forced my head to turn and froze.

Someone was floating in the sky. A girl, hovering high above the battlefield. Long white hair drifted behind her like strands of pale moonlight, swaying in a wind I could not feel. A pure white dress fluttered softly around her, untouched by the blood and death below.

The longer I gazed at her, the further she drifted from the image of a human and into something incomprehensible.

The radiance surrounding her was unbearable. It swallowed her features completely.

I couldn't see her face. Couldn't see her eyes. Yet an overwhelming certainty gripped my heart.

She was watching us.

Watching Natsu and Shou struggle to cling to life.

Watching me.

My blood boiled.

"You..." My lips trembled. "Was it... you...?"

No answer came.

She simply looked down upon us —our wounded bodies, the blood-soaked ground, and my inevitable death that drew nearer with every breath.

Who was she? What did she want? Why did she attack us? The questions burned inside my skull, but I no longer had the strength to ask them.

Finally, my leg gave way, and I collapsed on the ground as well while continuing to bleed profusely.

The pain. The blood loss. The exhaustion. Everything was fading.

Countless questions clawed at my mind. Yet before I could find a single answer—

The girl slowly raised her hand. The moment she did, the world changed.

Red flowers burst from the earth.

A hundred. Thousands.

They erupted from every corner of the battlefield, spreading like a crimson tide. Their roots tore through the ground. Scarlet petals flooded the ground, swallowing blood and rubble beneath an endless sea of red.

"N-No..."

The flowers reached Natsu first. Then Shou.

Their figures vanished beneath the scarlet bloom.

"Stop..." My voice barely escaped my throat. "Don't take them away from me..."

But the flowers did not stop. They climbed my legs. Wrapped around my waist.

Finally filling the hole in my center.

The earth beneath me softened into a bottomless sea of petals.

I began to sink slowly. Helplessly.

I stretched out a trembling hand toward the sky, desperately reaching for something—anything—but there was nothing to grasp.

The flowers swallowed my chest. My shoulders. My throat.

Darkness crept over my vision.

And the last thing I saw was the girl standing amidst that impossible radiance.

Though the light concealed her face, it could not hide her smile.

It was small. Gentle. Almost kind.

Yet that very smile felt more terrifying than the sea of corpses beneath her feet.

"NO!"

I jolted upright, my hand instantly shooting to my stomach.

My breathing came in ragged gasps as my heart hammered violently against my ribs. Cold sweat drenched my body while my trembling fingers pressed against my abdomen.

Whole. Uninjured. No blood. No hole.

For several seconds, I could do nothing but sit there, gasping for air. Gradually, the familiar sight of my room came into focus—the ceiling above my bed studded with precious blue crystals, the luxurious curtains draped around the chamber, the polished furniture, and the faint scent of incense lingering in the air.

I was back in my room and safe.

A bead of sweat rolled down my cheek. "It was that prophetic dream again…"

Even after all this time, the terror still felt real. The pain, the blood, the helplessness—every detail remained vivid in my mind. I wiped my forehead and reached for the silk cord hanging beside my bed.

Ring. Ring.

The soft sound echoed through the room, and moments later the door opened. Several maids entered carrying a basin of cold water and fresh towels.

I dipped my hands into the water, and the cold bit into my skin.

Good. I needed it as I took a deep sigh, finally regaining my composure to synchronize my thoughts.

I splashed water across my face, again and again, trying to wash away the lingering image of that smile. That cold smile.

"Prepare a warm bath. And leave me."

“Yes, princess.” The maids bowed immediately.

They withdrew, and the door closed behind them. Silence returned.

My hand drifted back to my abdomen on its own. The flesh was still intact. By now, I had this dream so many times, I could not even differentiate what felt real and what did not.

I took a deep breath and stared into the bowl of water resting before me.

Slowly, I removed the locket hanging around my neck.

It was a yellow sapphire pendant, blessed by my contracted Goddess, Themis. Tiny golden veins shimmered within the gemstone whenever it caught the light.

Holding it above the bowl, I closed my eyes.

“Goddess who watches the threads of fate, reveal only what must be known. Past and future shall intertwine. What is concealed shall surface; what is distant shall draw near."

The sapphire glowed faintly.

A single golden droplet formed at its tip before falling into the water below.

Plink.

Ripples spread across the surface.

The water shimmered with a brief yellow radiance, as if starlight had been poured into it.

Then the glow faded. The water remained clear with no visible changes.

I released a long sigh.

"I guess there is still time before this divination comes to pass."

That was good news. At least for now.

“Princess, your bath is ready.” A voice came from outside.

“Coming,” I replied from inside.

…

Silence filled the empty chamber.

Then a single ripple spread across the water's surface. Another followed.

The water began to rotate slowly, forming a tiny whirlpool at the center of the tub.

Dark red bled into the crystal-clear water.

It spread silently through the basin until the entire basin had become the color of fresh blood.

It spread without a sound, staining the liquid until the entire basin resembled a pool of freshly spilled blood.

At that moment, the door opened. Several maids entered, carrying cleaning supplies.

One of them froze and blinked at the basin.

"Did you see that?" she asked hesitantly.

"See what?" another maid replied.

"For a moment... I thought the water was red."

The second maid glanced at the basin and frowned.

"It looks normal to me. Stop daydreaming and get back to work. We need this room cleaned before the princess returns."

The first maid looked back at the basin.

The crimson water was gone.

Only clear water remained, as though the blood-red vision had never existed at all.

…

After taking a refreshing bath, I spent the entire time replaying the prophetic dream in my head, desperately searching for anything I might have overlooked.

A landmark. A clue. Anything that could help me figure out a way to avoid the situation.

But no matter how many times I went through it, I couldn't identify the location.

I didn't know how we had ended up there.

I didn't know what had happened to Athys, Themis, or Uranus. We were always together, but they weren’t this time.

And as for the white-haired girl...

There was only one person who matched that description.

Only one person whose power could possibly explain what I had witnessed.

A figure shrouded in countless rumors, her name spreading from port to port through whispered tales and sailors' gossip.

Over the past few months, her exploits had become the talk of every kingdom bordering the sea. Aquarion kingdom was no exception.

She was said to be a beautiful young girl who had wiped entire pirate fleets from the ocean without leaving behind a single survivor.

Yet there was little evidence to support those stories beyond the testimony of a handful of terrified passengers who described her power as nothing short of divine.

In fact, many doubted she even existed.

After all, stories grew taller with every retelling.

But the vision I had seen suggested a far more unsettling possibility.

The more I recalled that dream...

The more convinced I became.

"It was her. The one they call the… The White Queen."

If she truly was the person from my vision, then the situation was far worse than I had imagined.

But one question refused to leave my mind.

What did we do to earn her hostility?

Why would someone like her target us?

What reason could she possibly have?

No matter the answer, one thing was certain.

I had seen our deaths.

And I would do everything in my power to prevent that future from becoming reality.

That’s how we have survived till now.

With the help of my divinations, I have kept us safe from Zero’s reach and our classmates who had turned to the dark side.

Sacrificing their contracted gods to obtain more power. How selfish of them.

There was always a possibility the White Queen could be one of the minions of Zero or even a reincarnate like us if she could demonstrate such powerful magic. Perhaps it could be a unique skill.

But if it was a unique skill related to water, there was only one possible answer.

My brother, Natsu. He had formed a contract with Athys, the Goddess of Water. As far as I knew, no other god associated with that attribute participated in the reincarnation ceremony.

"Ugh... this is so frustrating."

I let out a groan.

"At this point, all I can do is guess. I can't even tell when that prophecy is supposed to come true."

I was just about ready to pull my hair out when I stopped beside a window while walking through the palace corridors.

Beyond the glass, I could see Natsu and Shou training in the courtyard below. Athys and Uranus were there too.

“What happened? They were never this serious before to train so early in the morning.” I groaned, remembering how I wasted days trying to force them to train their unique skills.

“Nozomi. Good morning.” Themis suddenly appeared in front of me.

“Good morning, Themis.”

“So, you are seeing that too. They have been at it since dawn.” Themis laughed.

“I just hope those two don’t cause any trouble for the people here. I can’t believe one day my brother will become a king. When all he does is create trouble.” I sighed.

“Well, then why don’t you run for the throne as well. People love you here, and you are quite diligent.” Themis said.

“Oh, come on, don’t joke like that.”

“But I really meant when I said you will make a fine Queen.”

“It’s too heavy a responsibility for me. I will just die out of all the tension surrounding the throne.” I sighed. “I am fine as long as I keep continuing to support my brother.”

“I suspected as much.” Before I could react, Themis stepped closer until she stood right in front of me. Gentle fingers slipped beneath my chin, lifting my face.

"Look at me."

Unable to avoid her gaze, I slowly raised my eyes. Her golden irises searched mine with quiet concern, then finally focused on the dark circles settled beneath my eyes.

“You haven’t been getting proper sleep. You are having that dream again, aren’t you?”

For a moment, I looked away, unsure of what to say. But hiding it wouldn't help either of us.

"...Yes." The single word barely escaped my lips. "And every single time it feels real. So real that I can almost feel the blood on my hands."

My fingers instinctively curled into trembling fists.

"I've tried changing everything I possibly could. Made different choices. Calculated our actions carefully in hopes of changing the future.”

I laughed weakly.

"And yet... nothing changes." I bit my lip. "The divination never changes."

"And after I wake up..." I lowered my head. "...I can't divine anything beyond that dream."

The trembling in my hands grew stronger.

"Then... does that mean..."

I couldn't bring myself to finish the sentence.

Themis suddenly raised her voice.

"Nozomi."

The sharpness in her tone startled me enough to look up.

"There are things in this world," she said firmly, "that even us gods cannot fully understand." Her expression remained calm, yet there was an unusual gravity behind her eyes. "Never forget this."

She turned her gaze toward the distant sky beyond the palace windows.

"This world is unlike any other. It exists closer to the Divine Realm than almost any mortal world. If there are beings capable of escaping the laws of divinity itself..." A faint smile touched her lips. "...I wouldn't be surprised."

Her words should have comforted me. But what I saw in my dream still haunted me.

"When we fought those cultists..." The memories came rushing back. "I never saw that monster in any of my visions. I couldn't warn anyone. What if I fail again?”

My voice cracked.

"They all got hurt because of me." I shut my eyes, struggling to steady my breathing. "So, what am I supposed to believe? If my power of prediction fails when it matters most, then what good am I?"

Silence settled between us.

A moment later, a warm hand rested gently atop my head. Themis slowly ran her fingers through my hair.

"No." Her answer came without hesitation. "That's not what I'm saying."

She smiled—the same gentle smile she always wore whenever one of us was being far too hard on ourselves.

"I'm saying there's no point blaming yourself for something beyond your control. You've already done more than anyone could have."

She looked directly into my eyes.

"Have you forgotten? When you divined Zero's trap—the meeting where he planned to take the reincarnated gods hostage—you saved all six of us. If not for you, we would have walked straight into his hands."

She placed both hands on my shoulders, her eyes unwavering.

"So don't carry every burden by yourself. If danger ever comes for you... I'll be there."

Her voice never wavered. Warmth spread through my chest.

The fear hadn't disappeared, but somehow it no longer felt so suffocating.

I smiled.

"...I believe you." Gently, I took one of her hands in mine. "And I'll protect you too."

Themis chuckled. "I know you will."

I glanced toward the palace courtyard, and a mischievous smile crept across my face.

"Now then... let's see what those boys have managed to destroy while we were talking."

The moment we stepped into the training grounds—

"NOOOOZOMIII!!"

A familiar voice echoed across the courtyard.

Before I could even react, Natsu came sprinting toward us with enough enthusiasm to shake the earth. His face practically glowed with excitement.

"You won't believe it!"

He skidded to a stop in front of me, vibrating with energy.

"I finally unlocked the Second Stage of my Aura Arts! I'm officially an Upper Knight-class Aural Arts user now!"

He proudly puffed out his chest before dramatically pointing toward the sky.

"I've taken another huge step toward becoming the True Hero!"

I stared at him for a long moment. Then sighed.

"Natsu."

"What?"

"...How stupid can you possibly be?"

"H-Huh?!"

"There are only around eight officially recognized Heroes in the entire world, and almost every one of them has already reached Sage Class."

I folded my arms.

"As for the True Hero... they're said to stand at Sovereign Class."

I poked him in the forehead.

"And here you're celebrating becoming an Upper Knight," I continued, "This is exactly why we haven't publicly announced that you're a Hero."

He winced.

"...Ouch."

"And besides..." I pointed toward another corner of the training grounds. "Shou reached Upper Knight a year ago. Maybe try learning something from him since he trains consistently."

"HEY!" Shou looked over from where he had been practicing. "Stop dragging me into your sibling arguments!"

Ignoring him completely, Natsu suddenly brightened again.

"Oh! Right! I almost forgot!"

His eyes sparkled.

"I have to show you my new technique! It's amazing! A giant dragon made entirely of aura comes flying out and devours my enemy!"

He grabbed my wrist.

"You HAVE to see it!"

I immediately pulled my hand back.

"Absolutely not."

"...Eh?"

"How many times have I told you not to unleash large-scale Aural Arts inside the royal palace?"

I gestured toward the castle behind us.

"Do you think people would appreciate their Hero accidentally blowing away half the castle just because he wanted to show off?"

Natsu slowly looked over his shoulder.

"...Fair point." He scratched his cheek. "Sorry... I didn't think that far."

I sighed. "You never do."

"Then let's go outside the city! I really want you to see it! I'm telling you—you'll love it!"

Uranus laughed. "Oh, come on, Nozomi."

He crossed his arms with a smile.

"You know how hard your brother worked for this. And I have to admit that technique really is impressive. At least take a look."

"...I will." I let out another sigh. "But we have more important matters right now."

"There are?" Natsu blinked.

"You forgot about the cultists? The amount of evidence we recovered from their hideout was enormous. If the Intelligence Division has finished examining everything, they're bound to find something useful."

The cheerful mood vanished almost instantly.

"Right. I haven't forgotten." Natsu's expression grew serious.

Shou, Uranus, and Athys silently nodded.

"Good."

Natsu suddenly stepped forward. "I have decided!"

Everyone blinked.

"As the Hero..." He struck a heroic pose. "I swear I'll wipe every last one of those cultists off the face of this world!"

He paused.

"What were they called again? Black..."

He frowned.

"...Battery?"

He snapped his fingers.

"The Black Torch! I'll save everyone they've tried to hurt... and rid this world of their terror once and for all!"

Silence.

Pop! Confetti suddenly exploded into the air.

Shou and Uranus had somehow gotten their hands on some party poppers.

Athys politely applauded. "Wonderful speech."

I stared blankly at the four of them.

There truly was no saving this group.

As for my idiot brother...

It had only been six months since he returned from a mission carrying the title of Hero.

According to the reports, monsters had surrounded a village from every direction. Only Natsu and Shou had stood between them and certain death.

There was no way the two of them alone could have protected the village.

Instead of ordering everyone to flee, Natsu stood before the terrified villagers and gave them hope. He inspired them to fight for their homes.

And somehow, against impossible odds...

They won.

The following morning, the title of Hero had appeared on his status window.

Even now, nobody truly understood why.

What exactly made someone worthy of becoming a Hero?

Was it having ultimate strength beyond reason? Or endless courage? Or unbreakable conviction?

Or something else entirely?

There were no defined requirements, no limits, nor any clear criteria for attaining that title. My thoughts came to an abrupt halt as another voice suddenly cut through my thoughts.

"Princess Nozomi."

A maid hurried into the training grounds before bowing respectfully.

"A member of the Intelligence Division has just arrived. They have requested your audience."

My thoughts snapped back to the present.

"They're already here?"

That was much faster than expected.

"Tell them I'll be there right away."

"Yes, Princess."

After the maid hurried off, I turned back to everyone else.

A determined smile spread across my face.

"This is our chance. If they've found the cultists' next plan..." My gaze hardened. "...then we can locate their headquarters and put an end to them once and for all."

…

The doors to the intelligence briefing room swung open as we stepped inside.

The spacious chamber was lined with towering bookshelves overflowing with scrolls, manuscripts, and leather-bound reports gathered from across the Eastern Federation of Kingdoms.

Large maps covered nearly every wall, their surfaces riddled with colored pins, strings, and handwritten cypher notes marking battlefields, trade routes, and suspicious movements. Long wooden tables were buried beneath stacks of letters and documents sent by spies. Officials and agents hurried from one place to another carrying fresh reports.

Near the tall windows, messenger black birds would suddenly streak through the open windows and slam into waiting sheets of blank parchment. Their bodies dissolved into splashes of black ink that raced across the page, forming the reports sent by the kingdom's spies stationed throughout the world.

As soon as we entered, the head of the intelligence division straightened and bowed.

"Welcome, Your Highnesses and Sir Shou."

My brother and I were the prince and princess of the Kingdom of Aquarion. Shou, meanwhile, was the son of the kingdom's knight commander.

The three of us had been close friends even before we were reincarnated into this world, and together we had sworn to fulfill the mission entrusted to us—to bring lasting peace to the continent.

Being born into the royal family gave us several advantages at the head start of our lives. We had access to the kingdom's greatest libraries, the finest teachers, and every resource needed to understand this unfamiliar world. It was also where we reunited with the gods who had reincarnated alongside us as members of Aquarion's nobility.

As the years passed, our attention gradually turned toward a far greater threat.

A mysterious cult.

For years they had spread chaos throughout the Eastern Federation of Kingdoms. Entire villages had vanished overnight. Monster stampedes had wiped out settlements. Political assassinations, civil wars, sacrificial rituals, massacres... every major tragedy seemed to leave traces pointing back to the same cult.

Several kingdoms within the Eastern Federation had already collapsed because of their schemes, leaving behind nothing but abandoned cities and barren wastelands.

This meeting would determine our next move.

The intelligence chief walked toward the enormous map occupying the center wall.

"We've managed to organize and decipher most of the documents recovered during your recent operation," he began.

He picked up a wooden pointer and tapped the north-west corner of the Eastern Federation.

"Our spies have intercepted numerous messages indicating an unusually large gathering of the cult members here."

Everyone's eyes followed the pointer.

It was a small kingdom nestled against the mountains.

"In recent months, we've recorded missing reports of people disappearing into this region. At first we believed they were usual disappearances in the mountains, but I guess we now know it might be linked to the Black Torch."

"So, there is a possibility this could be their headquarters?" I asked.

He nodded slowly.

"We cannot confirm it with absolute certainty." His expression grew grim. "But if our analysis is correct... this is the largest concentration of cult members we've ever discovered."

I felt disappointed that we were still far from reaching our objective.

Silence settled over the room.

Even Natsu's usual carefree smile disappeared.

"They've been preparing for something there for years," the intelligence chief continued. "We have been after this organization for more than five years, and it took us two years just to break through their strong encrypted messages. The communications we deciphered from the evidence Your Highnesses recovered immensely helped us. And it turns out that in their communications, they have repeatedly mentioned a large-scale operation. Unfortunately, we still don't know what that operation entails. Even in their letters, they were too terrified to reveal any details. The only thing they ever said was that it would mark 'the birth of a new sun.'"

"If this mission is that important for them, then there can be chances that we've found their main base..." Shou muttered. "Or we'll find the evidence leading us to it.”

"That’s still better than having nothing," Natsu said.

I stared at the red marker planted in the northeastern kingdom.

For some reason...

A faint chill crawled down my spine.

The mountains and the shape of the valley.

It felt like I had seen them before.

Was it in my dream, so why can’t I remember?

My fingers unconsciously tightened around the edge of the table.

If my suspicion was correct...

Then the future I had been desperately trying to prevent was already beginning. No, I can’t be sure of it and stop when we are this close to uncovering the truth.

"I'll review every report myself and come up with a plan to stop them," I said, refusing to let my voice waver.

The intelligence chief nodded.

"We've prepared everything for your inspection, Princess."

I kept my eyes fixed on the red marker.

"This ends now."

Whether it was their headquarters or merely another stepping stone, we couldn't afford to let the cult take another step toward whatever they had been planning.

◇◇◇

Using the teleportation gate, everyone made their way back to Grindelwald Magic Academy.

Well... almost everyone.

Rhea stayed behind.

After everything that had happened, she wanted to spend a week with her family—looking after her little brother, the newborn dragon hatchling, and helping her mother, the Crimson Dragon. Honestly, after seeing what she and her family had been through, there is no way someone had the heart to stop her.

For me, the bigger surprise was the Black Dragon.

He had somehow decided to stay as well.

"I'll remain here for a while," Kuro, the Black Dragon, declared with all the majestic dignity one would expect from an ancient dragon...

...which was rather difficult to take seriously when he was currently playing chase with a baby dragon. "The Crimson Dragon could use another pair of wings until things settle down."

I folded my arms and watched him deliberately trot just slowly enough for the hatchling to catch up.

"...Don't tell me you're only staying so you can play with the baby dragon."

"W-What nonsense!" He puffed out his chest, trying to look offended. "Of course not."

The baby dragon immediately pounced onto one of his forelegs.

"Oh? You caught your uncle. How are you so fast when you are so young?!" His voice instantly softened. "Now you've earned yourself a hug!"

He scooped the tiny crimson dragon into his arms before gently rubbing its head.

"..."

"..."

I slowly turned to stare at him.

Only then did he seem to realize what he'd just done.

He awkwardly cleared his throat, carefully pretending nothing had happened.

"I merely have... matters to discuss with the Crimson Dragon. It has been centuries since I involved myself with this world's affairs." He spoke with a perfectly serious expression. "Besides, now that we've formed a summoning contract, distance means little. Our bonds are now connected through the spiritual realm. Should you require my strength, simply call my name, and I shall answer.”

The Black Dragon glanced at me for a brief second while still cuddling the baby dragon.

Our eyes met. And he immediately looked away.

"Ahem!" He hugged the baby dragon a little tighter. "Oh, no! We're under attack! We'd better retreat at once!"

Before I could say another word, the Kuro gently picked up the squealing hatchling by the scruff of its neck with his jaws.

With that utterly unconvincing excuse, he bolted while the little crimson dragon happily dangled from his mouth.

"Hey! Don't suddenly start pretending you don't know me!"

He didn't even bother looking back.

He was one hundred percent staying for the baby.

Right after signing a summoning contract with me, he decides it's perfectly fine to disappear for an entire week.

How unbelievably selfish.

It's not like I was excited about finally having my own summon. So, I will let him do what he wants for now, but if he doesn’t return within a week, I will remove all his toys and snacks from my room.

With Rhea waving us goodbye, the rest of us stepped through the teleportation gate.

A familiar flash of white light swallowed my vision.

Moments later, the towering spires of Grindelwald Magic Academy welcomed us to our magic academy once more.

Everything seemed peaceful. The crisis was over.

Classes would resume like normal.

Life would finally return to its usual routine.

Or at least, that's what I thought.

But I couldn't have been more wrong.

...

"So…" Ingrid whispered from the seat beside me during class.

Our professor was busy filling the blackboard with magic formulas.

"...How did you do that?"

"What?" I whispered back.

"The magic you used yesterday. Was it some kind of lost ancient magic?" She leaned so close I could practically feel her curiosity poking my cheek.

“It was just my normal healing magic.”

"You can tell me. I promise I won't tell anyone. I'm excellent at keeping secrets."

"Didn't you announce to the entire student body that we didn’t have any clubs last time?"

"...That was different."

...

Lunch wasn't any better.

"You know," Ingrid said as she elegantly cut her steak, "why do you even wear that mask? You're actually really beautiful."

"Khohhh…" I nearly choked on my soup.

"You'd definitely become the center of attention if you took it off. Though you still lack the refined elegance expected of high nobility."

“Huh!” I raised an eyebrow, wondering if she was really complimenting me.

"You have potential, though."

"...Thank you... I think?"

"I can teach you, if you teach me what magic you used that day."

...

Unfortunately...

She was also my roommate. The moment we entered our room, Ingrid looked at me.

"You're still wearing the mask?"

"Well... I guess I don't need it inside the room anymore."

I took it off before flopping face-first onto my bed.

"Finally..." I buried my face into my pillow. "I can sleep peacefully."

"Oh, good." Then Ingrid continued. "So! About your magic."

"...Seriously? All I want to do is rest."

"How did you become so strong?" Ingrid continued with her question, ignoring my request.

"By training, I guess," I answered, hoping she might stop.

"What kind of training?"

"Normal training with my mother and father. And I conquered a labyrinth too."

"So, did you discover a legendary magic technique or equipment there?"

"No." Wait, how does she know that?

"Oh, then did your family pass down some forbidden secret?"

"No." Is she really just guessing? I did learn basic aural arts.

"Then did you eat a powerful magical fruit?"

"No." I am pretty sure I did not have anything like that.

"Or found an ancient grimoire?"

"No." I did, but I gave it to my father. So, that doesn’t count.

"Then did you accidentally make a contract with an eldritch?"

"No." I am pretty sure Xenos is not an Eldritch, and what would even give Ingrid that idea?

"Then did you fall off a cliff and unlock your hidden potential?"

"Of course, not. I am just going to sleep back now. You should go to sleep too. We have classes in the morning."

"Sure, I will. Let’s continue this next day."

Next day too, well, as long as I get to sleep now.

Five seconds later...

"So, hypothetically speaking—"

My eye twitched. That was it.

I slowly sat up.

Without saying a word, I raised one finger.

Fwip.

Silky white threads shot across the room.

Before Ingrid could react, she was wrapped head to toe like a cocoon hanging from the ceiling.

"...Mmph?!"

"There."

It was finally quiet.

I pulled my blanket over myself.

Finally...

“Good night, Ingrid.”

"...Mmph! Mmphhh!!"

I rolled over.

"...MMPH! MMMPHH!!"

I pulled the pillow over my ears.

"...MMMMMPPPPHHHH!!!"

...

The next morning...

"I couldn't sleep at all..."

Dark circles hung beneath my eyes as I slowly sat up.

Across the room...

"...Mmph!! Mmphhh!!"

Ingrid was still hanging from the ceiling.

Still wrapped in spider silk, making those muffled noises.

She had spent the entire night trying to continue asking questions in that state.

I had completely misjudged Ingrid.

I thought she was the quiet, prideful, and refined noble type. But she had completely turned rouge now.

Going through academy life was exhausting enough already.

Waking up before sunrise.

Attending lectures all day. Practice magic. Club activities. Homework too.

And on top of that, I also had to prepare for tests.

I just wanted one peaceful night's sleep. But I have been through this hell for the past four days now.

I don’t think I can take this any longer.

…

The first person I thought of asking for help was Regis. If there was anyone who could handle Ingrid, it was her.

Unfortunately...

One night, as I waited outside Regis’s room, the door finally creaked open.

Regis quietly stepped outside, looking exhausted. Her red hair was damp with sweat, and there were tiny cuts on the sleeves of her uniform.

"Regis!"

She looked up in surprise.

"...Alicia? You're still awake?"

"I've been waiting for you! Can you help me with something?"

"I wish I could..." She gave me an apologetic smile as she rubbed the back of her neck.

"I asked Miss Xu to personally train me."

"Why?”

"I realized I'm still far too weak." There was an unusual determination in her eyes. "I don't want to keep relying on everyone else to help me."

“But you look extremely tired. What kind of training have you been up to.”

"I leave before sunrise every morning, and training doesn't end until late at night."

Almost as if to prove her point, she let out a big yawn.

"So..." She smiled awkwardly. “What do you want my help with?"

Seeing the dark circles beneath her eyes, I couldn't bring myself to ask anymore.

"No, no. Forget I asked. You should go to sleep now."

“Yeah, right. Good night.”

And right on the spot, Regis fell.

"...Zzz..."

“Hey, don't sleep in the corridor. You'll catch a cold.”

I sighed and hurriedly grabbed Regis under the arms, dragging her limp body away from the hallway before anyone walked by.

The last thing I needed was someone walking by and finding me hauling around an unconscious elf princess as if I'd just committed a crime.

After a surprisingly exhausting struggle, I finally managed to wrestle her onto the bed. I pulled the blanket over her, making sure she was tucked in properly before quietly heading for the door.

"...Guess asking Regis is out."

…

The next day, I visited Athena instead.

Stacks of books, lesson plans, and neatly organized papers completely buried her office desk.

Athena was writing at a frightening speed.

Scratch. Scratch. Scratch.

Without even looking up, she greeted me.

"Good afternoon, Alicia."

"...How did you know it was me?"

"I can recognize your footsteps by now. And your smell too."

“What? Do I really smell?”

A faint smile appeared on her lips.

"I was just kidding. We are connected by soul, remember. So, what brings you here?"

I glanced at the mountain of paperwork.

"...Are you writing another lesson plan?"

"Yes."

She calmly turned another page.

"It’s my first time teaching, so I need to be prepared well in advance."

"Let me help," I said.

Athena immediately shook her head.

"No. You've only recently transferred here." She finally looked up at me. "You're still adjusting to academy life. I don't want to burden you with additional work."

"But—"

"No."

Her voice was gentle, but carried the firmness of someone who had already made up her mind.

"...Rest while you still can and enjoy your academy life."

She returned to writing as though the conversation had already ended.

Scratch. Scratch. Scratch.

"...Even Athena rejected my help."

I quietly slipped out of her office.

There went Plan B.

…

By the fourth day...

I had officially reached my limit.

Or rather...

My sanity had reached its limit. As I ran away from that being, I slipped into my room, first making sure no one was following me. As I quietly eased the door shut behind me. Only then did I let out the breath I had been holding.

My chest rose and fell with heavy breaths as I stared at my reflection in the mirror.

Messy hair. Dark circles. Lifeless eyes.

I looked like a ghost.

I hadn't gotten a single proper night's sleep.

Not because of studying or training.

But just because of one person.

"...Ingrid."

Every single day.

Question after question after question.

"How did you do that?"

"What kind of magic was that?"

"Why do you wear a mask?"

"Are you secretly a sage’s student?"

“Where does your magic come from?”

“What else can you do with magic?”

“Can you teach me to do the same?”

I did want to be friends with her. But I never knew it could turn into this kind of obsession. And I didn’t even use a wish-willow so why.

"I can't take this anymore..."

I collapsed dramatically onto my bed.

"I need an escape."

Just then, a familiar tiny voice echoed inside my room.

"My Queen."

I raised my hand.

Ellie crawled out from behind my hair, scurried across my neck, and made her way down my arm before settling on the back of my hand. She gave me a respectful bow.

"The analyst spiders have completed their investigation. They have successfully deciphered all of the documents recovered from the enemy hideout. We have the complete report ready."

My exhaustion vanished instantly.

"Already?"

I gently lifted Ellie.

"That's amazing work, Ellie."

Her tiny legs lifted proudly.

"The spiders will be delighted to hear your praise, My Queen."

Thin silver threads shot from her tiny hands.

One after another...

Bundles of documents materialized in midair before floating gently onto my desk.

Maps. Reports. Decoded communications.

I flipped through them.

"...You even cracked their encrypted codes."

Another page.

"...The locations of their planned operations..."

Another.

"...And their supply routes as well."

I couldn't help smiling.

"This is incredible."

Ellie proudly crossed her tiny arms.

"What shall we investigate next, My Queen? I can dispatch scout spiders immediately to these locations."

"I'll think about—"

BANG! BANG! BANG!

"A-L-I-C-I-A!"

Ingrid's cheerful voice exploded from the other side of the door.

"I brought strawberry pastries! Let's eat together!"

BANG! BANG! BANG!

"Oh! And I remembered five... no, only six more questions I wanted to ask you!"

I slowly turned toward the door.

"...She's already back."

If I don't solve this problem today, I'll have to deal with it over the weekend tomorrow.

Which meant...

Ingrid would have unlimited free time.

BANG! BANG! BANG!

"Alicia! I know you're inside! Come oooout!"

I looked around the room in desperation.

"Closet? Or should I go under the bed? Or hang upside down from the ceiling?"

No, I have already tried those.

Then a brilliant idea flashed through my mind.

"...Wait. I don't have to hide. I can simply leave."

My eyes sparkled as I looked towards Ellie.

"My Queen?" Ellie asked, confused by the current situation.

I smiled.

"Tell the others I'll personally investigate the enemy's next location."

Ellie saluted immediately.

"Understood! I shall place every scout spider, guardian spider, and knight spider on maximum alert! We will keep the perimeter secure!"

I think Ellie is taking this much more seriously than I am.

I was mostly trying to escape Ingrid. But Ellie looked even more determined and serious. Still, if it made her happy, I wouldn't complain.

"I understand!"

There was only one problem.

Leaving the academy required taking permission from a teacher.

If either Athena or Regis found out about this…

They would insist on coming with me. They are already so busy; I don’t want to spoil their weekend either when they can finally get some rest.

And I had no idea how dangerous this mission would become.

"...Then there's only one person left."

Someone who could authorize my leave and keep my secret.

Without another word, I activated teleportation magic.

And with a blue radiance vanished from the scene.

…

Bang. Bang.

"...Huh?"

From outside my now-empty dorm room...

Ingrid frowned.

"...No answer?"

She pressed an ear against the door.

"...Alicia?"

Silence.

After a moment, she sighed.

"...I guess she isn't here. I'll check the cafeteria. She can't hide from me forever."

The sound of her footsteps gradually faded down the hallway.

◇◇◇

Blue light flickered beneath my feet as the teleportation circle dissolved into countless glowing particles.

A heartbeat later, I found myself standing in front of the Otherworld Research Club.

The familiar two-story wooden building stood quietly beneath the afternoon sun, its windows thrown open to let the cool breeze drift through. The wooden sign hanging above the entrance creaked softly as it swayed.

I reached for the handle and pushed the door open.

"Hello?" I called, poking my head inside. "Is anyone here?"

Only silence greeted me.

Just as I wondered if no one was here—

Click.

A door at the back opened.

Miss Karin stepped into the room, holding several folders against her chest. A gentle smile spread across her face the moment she noticed me.

"Hello, Alicia."

"Hello, Miss Karin."

"I wasn't expecting to see you today." She tilted her head curiously. "Did you forget something after yesterday's club meeting? I don't believe we have another gathering scheduled."

"...Actually..."

I continuously moved my fingers in a twirl without even realizing.

"I came because I wanted to ask you for a favor."

Her eyebrows lifted ever so slightly.

"A favor?"

"Yes."

She walked over and placed the folders on a nearby table before folding her hands together.

"I'm listening."

"...I was hoping to leave the academy for a little while."

"Oh?"

"I wanted to buy some gifts for Regis and Miss Alice."

The corners of Karin's lips curled upward.

"That's thoughtful. And what’s the occasion? Are there birthday dates close? I would like to give a gift to miss Alice myself."

"Actually, they've both been working incredibly hard lately. They're always exhausted whenever I see them. I just thought... maybe getting them something nice would cheer them up."

At least...

That part wasn't a lie.

Regis had practically disappeared into Miss Xu's training sessions. Every morning she vanished before sunrise, and every night she stumbled back into the dormitory looking like she was one step away from dying.

Athena wasn't much different.

Ever since joining the academy as a teacher, she'd buried herself beneath mountains of lesson plans and paperwork.

They both deserved a break.

Unfortunately...

That wasn't why I wanted to leave.

Yeah... there's absolutely no way I can tell her the real reason.

‘Miss Karin, one of my spider familiars located the headquarters of the mysterious organization who were trying to use dragons to start another war, so I'd like permission to sneak out and investigate them alone.’

I'd be lucky if I only got grounded for two months if they ever found out.

Miss Xu would probably chain me to the class’s seat and lecture me all day.

I smiled as innocently as I could.

"So... I was wondering if I could have permission to leave the academy for two days to visit my hometown and bring back something that would remind them of home."

Miss Karin didn't answer immediately.

Don’t tell me she is already suspicious of me.

Did I make a mistake? I know my story’s not that convincing, but there’s no way anyone can prove it false either.

I forced myself to keep smiling.

I can’t panic at this stage. All I need to do is smile naturally.

Or am I smiling too much?

After what felt like an eternity—

Miss Karin smiled.

"Very well. You have my permission."

I blinked.

"...Really?"

"Yes."

"...Just like that?"

"I don't see why not."

That… was unexpectedly easy.

I had spent the entire walk over here preparing excuses. I'd rehearsed backup stories. Backup plans for my backup plans.

I was even ready to fake tears if necessary. I could have finally gotten to use my dramatic talents.

And she had simply...

Agreed?

Joy spread across my face.

"Thank you so much, Miss Karin!" She is so cool.

"I knew I could count on—"

"However."

Uh-oh.

Whenever an adult said however...

Nothing good ever followed.

She raised one finger. "I have one condition."

I straightened my posture.

"...What kind of condition?"

"It's quite simple."

"If it's something I can do, I'll gladly accept," I said.

Her smile deepened. "Good. Then come with me."

"Huh? We're going somewhere... Right now?"

"Yes."

She spoke so casually that I instinctively followed after her.

Although...

I couldn't help feeling slightly uneasy.

Where exactly are we going?

Does she have a list of items she wants me to gather while I am away?

Or help with some club work in exchange.

Alright, nothing can be that tough compared to facing psycho Ingrid.

We passed through several academy corridors before reaching a part of the campus I'd never visited before.

"This way."

Miss Karin stopped before an enormous iron gate covered in intricate magical circles.

She placed a hand, and several magical circles began to merge into a final symbol, which was the key to opening the gate.

Whatever lay beyond them...

It clearly wasn't somewhere students were meant to wander into so freely.

A cool breeze brushed against my face.

The familiar stone corridors of the academy disappeared, replaced by the earthy scent of damp soil and fresh grass.

I blinked.

"...Whoa."

Before me stretched an enormous forest clearing. Towering ancient trees formed a natural wall around the open field.

For a brief moment...

I forgot I was still inside the academy.

"This place..." I slowly turned in a circle, unable to hide my amazement. "I never knew somewhere like this existed."

"Is it really that amazing?" Miss Karin walked past me with her hands folded behind her back. “But yeah, this place is very special to me. And only one more person and I know about this place.”

I looked toward the horizon.

Far away, piercing the sky like a giant white spear, stood the unmistakable spire of Grindelwald Magic Academy.

“As I thought, this is a dimensional space, cut off from the academy.”

We barely walked for a few minutes. But the academy is now several kilometres away.

“You won’t even find this place on the map, since this dimensional pocket keeps on moving. We would need to pass through that door with the right inscription to access this space.”

“…Woah.” I was more amazed by the fact that I thought of teleporting into this space, but it didn’t work.

This dimensional pocket was far more sophisticated than I had imagined. It wasn't just a massive enclosed space drifting through the void. The entire space constantly shifted to random coordinates, never staying in one place long enough to lock onto. Teleportation was impossible, whether I tried to jump inside it or even to a point around it.

At a glance, it looked more like a prison than a playground.

We continued walking deeper into the clearing until Miss Karin finally stopped.

"This should do."

I glanced around.

The clearing stretched for hundreds of meters in every direction. The ground was flat and free of rocks, almost as though someone had intentionally prepared it for battle.

There wasn't another soul in sight. Only the two of us.

Karin looked up at the clear blue sky.

"The weather is beautiful today." She closed her eyes for a brief moment, letting the breeze brush through her long hair.

Then she looked back at me.

"No one will disturb us here." A tiny smile appeared on her lips. "So, we can do anything we like."

"...Miss Karin, what exactly is your condition?" I finally asked.

Instead of answering immediately, she walked several steps away before turning to face me.

Her gentle smile hadn't disappeared.

But… something about her presence had changed.

The warm, approachable club advisor from earlier was gone.

Standing before me now was someone else entirely. Even the surrounding breeze seemed to grow still.

"Alicia, if you wish to leave the academy alone, then prove to me that you possess the strength to do so and keep yourself safe on your own no matter the situation."

I let out a sigh of relief. At this point, I thought it was going to be something impossible.

But the question remained.

"But how do I prove it?"

"It's simple."

She raised one finger.

"If you can successfully defend against my one attack. I'll consider you capable enough to handle yourself beyond the academy's walls."

I blinked.

That actually sounded pretty reasonable.

"I can do that."

"You sound confident."

“But before we agree. I have a question. Why do this?”

Miss Karin smiled, gesturing for me to continue.

“At this point, we're already aware of each other's strength through our Analysis skill.”

A faint smile appeared on Miss Karin's lips.

"So you do remember." She spoke so softly I almost thought I'd imagined it.

There was something oddly... joyful in her voice. As if she'd finally received the answer she'd been waiting for.

"I don't know what you're talking about," I said with a small shrug. "But Analysis lets us make a fairly accurate assessment of someone's strength, doesn't it? Shouldn't that be proof enough?

Whenever I tried to use Analysis on Miss Karin, all I ever saw was an endless wall of question marks.

Which could only mean one thing.

She was stronger than me.

...Or perhaps.

My own status was just as unreadable from her perspective.

If that was the case, didn't that already prove we were almost equal in strength?

Miss Karin quietly watched me for a few moments before speaking again.

"Tell me, Alicia." Miss Karin's expression suddenly turned serious. "What is the one thing in your life that you're willing to fight with everything you have to protect?"

The question caught me off guard.

I lowered my gaze.

I had asked myself that very question countless times before.

And every single time...

The answer had never changed.

"My freedom," I answered without hesitation. "I want the freedom to do whatever I want."

"I want the freedom to choose my own path. The freedom to protect the people important to me. The freedom to live however I want."

"I see. Then I guess we're alike in that respect."

"But freedom isn't something anyone gets to keep forever." Her eyes looked straight into mine.

"It can be stolen and easily taken away by someone stronger."

Miss Karin’s words carried an unexpected weight. Not like some basic advice, but more so from her experience.

I met her gaze without hesitation.

"Then I'll simply become the strongest."

The old me would have been able to say something so boldly.

But after everything I'd experienced...

After every battle...

Every impossible situation I'd survived...

Those experiences had changed me.

Maybe I wasn't the strongest person in this world. Not yet. But I truly believed those words.

Because no matter what stood in front of me, I'd find a way to overcome it.

"Good." Miss Karin slowly closed her eyes.

When she opened them again, there was unmistakable satisfaction in them.

“Then all I want is for you to prove that”

“Alright. I am ready to take the test.” I said.

“Alright, let’s begin.” Miss Karin clasped her hands.

I instinctively focused every one of my senses on Miss Karin’s movements. She could have attacked any moment now.

Would she cast a spell?

Summon a weapon?

I still waited for her to prepare. Maybe her most powerful needed an extra start time.

But Miss Karin looked relaxed.

Is she really planning to attack me like this?

"Oh." Miss Karin suddenly pointed a finger toward the sky. "In case you're wondering..."

"The test already started."

"...What?"

Almost instinctively, I activated my enhanced vision and looked upward.

The moment I did, my blood ran cold.

Far above the clouds...

Beyond the atmosphere...

A colossal beam of shimmering cosmic energy was tearing through space as it descended straight toward us.

“What!? Since when!?”

When did she even cast that!?

There hadn't been a single chant!

Not even the slightest fluctuation of magic energy in her body!

As the beam drew closer, its overwhelming presence finally washed over me.

The air trembled. The clouds split apart. Space itself seemed to distort beneath its pressure.

Cosmic energy. I'd never encountered anything like it before.

Maybe that was the reason not even Al could detect it.

At least...

Not until now.

Without wasting another second, I thrust both hands forward.

Several layers of magic barriers unfolded one after another, overlapping into an enormous shield that stretched high above me.

All I had to do was keep supplying it with magic power to stop the cosmic beam.

Eventually, the beam would run out of energy.

It wasn't elegant...

But it was the safest way to pass the test without revealing any of my powers.

Only a few seconds remained.

The beam pierced through the clouds, its scorching heat already brushing across my face. It felt as though a miniature sun were falling from the heavens.

It was enormous—

As wide as a building.

I expanded my barrier to match its diameter.

Just a little longer...

All I had to do was endure the impact.

Then Miss Karin casually spoke.

"Oh, one more thing."

She smiled as if she'd just remembered something trivial.

"You can't use magic in this realm."

"...What?"

"And yes. My cosmic energy is the only exception."

For a split second, my mind froze.

And that single moment of distraction was all it took.

The space around me was moving. Not the forest or the ground. But the dimensions I was currently in.

Tiny distortions rippled through the dimensional pocket. The changes were so unbelievably subtle that I hadn't noticed them until now.

The coordinates anchoring my barrier shifted by mere fractions of an inch. Each microscopic shift severed the magic link sustaining my barrier.

Crack.

Crack.

Crack.

The enormous shield unraveled before my eyes. Like sand slipping through open fingers.

Its magical structure collapsed into countless shimmering particles before dispersing into nothingness.

"No—!"

I reached forward instinctively.

But it was already too late.

There wasn't enough time to reconstruct a barrier powerful enough to withstand an attack of that magnitude.

The spiral of cosmic light descended before me.

And all I could do was stare at it helplessly as an artificial star descended from the heavens.

◇◇◇

"...Do you truly believe you can become the strongest?"

I kept my voice calm as I watched Alicia.

She didn't answer immediately.

Good.

A question like that wasn't meant to be answered lightly.

But what if I told her that beyond this world exist beings who surpass everything she could possibly imagine? Creatures for whom concepts like life, death, time, and even reality are little more than toys.

I wouldn't even be surprised if some of them still slumber somewhere within this world.

Even knowing that, will you still be able to call yourself the strongest?

Freedom to live however I choose.

A faint smile found its way onto my face. How nostalgic. How painfully familiar.

But freedom demands more conviction than any other desire.

I slowly closed my eyes.

“Freedom is beautiful, but if you pursue freedom without restraint, it will eventually consume you. And before you realize it.”

“You become the very thing you once swore never to be. So, Alicia..."

I opened my eyes once more.

"Think carefully. Every decision you make. Every action you take. Every life you choose to protect. Even the smallest choice can change the future beyond recognition."

I once knew someone who stood above everyone.

Back then...

I truly believed no one in existence could ever defeat them.

Yet...

Even legends eventually reach their end. They couldn't remain the strongest forever.

And in the end...

...they were forced to let go of everything.

So tell me. What happens...

...if I take away the very thing you've relied upon until now?

Can you still say you are the strongest?

Now show me.

...Who Alicia truly is.

…

The test had already begun.

High above the atmosphere, the pillar of cosmic energy I had summoned pierced through the heavens, descending silently toward us.

Cosmic energy couldn't be sensed by ordinary magic.

She wouldn't notice it until it entered the world's atmosphere.

Three...

Two...

One...

Her eyes suddenly widened. She finally found it.

Without wasting a second, layers of magical barriers unfolded before her one after another, merging into a single colossal shield large enough to intercept the descending pillar.

Good.

She reacted exactly as expected.

But that’s not the answer I am looking for from you.

I couldn't help smiling as I gave her the final warning.

"You won't be able to use magic in this realm."

The instant those words left my lips...

Space shifted.

The magical circles maintaining her barrier lost their anchor.

One after another, the layers unraveled into glittering particles before scattering harmlessly into the wind.

Alicia’s expression froze.

There wasn't enough time to reconstruct a barrier. The cosmic pillar was already upon her.

Now...

What would you choose?

Will you run to survive?

You are more than capable of dodging it. Even if you abandon the test now, I won't think any less of you.

Living is never something to be ashamed of.

The beam roared closer.

The earth trembled. The surrounding trees bent beneath its overwhelming pressure.

Yet...

Alicia didn't move.

"...Why?"

A whisper escaped my lips before I even realized it.

Move.

Why aren't you moving?

Then...

I think I saw a smile.

...

No.

"Alicia..." My voice trembled. "...Why?"

The pillar struck as the world vanished beneath blinding white. The pillar of cosmic light finally swallowed Alicia whole.

The earth melted beneath unbearable heat. Trees disappeared without leaving even ashes behind.

For a single heartbeat...

Everything was silent.

...

Was I... too harsh?

I needed to retrieve her immediately so she could regenerate immediately

But then something changed.

My body reacted before my mind could comprehend it. Every instinct I possessed screamed the same command.

Don't move.

My heartbeat became deafening inside my ears.

My breathing stopped. Even blinking felt dangerous.

An overwhelming presence took over the realm.

I knew this feeling. I had felt it once before millennials ago.

Inside the cosmic pillar...

A single black arc appeared.

And the impossible simply...

Occurred.

The pillar that stretched from the earth...

Through the clouds...

Beyond the heavens was severed perfectly. As though reality itself had been cut apart.

The two halves slowly drifted away from one another, dissolving into countless fragments of fading starlight.

Sunlight poured through the opening like a divine spotlight.

Standing beneath it...

Was Alicia.

Her silver hair swayed gently in the wind.

Her mask had disappeared.

In her hand rested a black sword so dark it seemed to devour the very light falling upon it.

For a long moment...

I simply stared. A bitter smile crossed my face.

For a moment, I thought I finally got to see her.

I slowly shook my head.

But it wasn’t her.

And yet...

Looking at the young girl standing beneath the parted heavens...

I could finally see it.

Their shadow.

"...So..."

A quiet smile found its way to my lips as my eyes finally fell on her swords.

"...you really are their successor."

◇◇◇

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