The breakfast provided within the knights’ order was the finest meal they had eaten in nearly a month. Even Tanya, who had never commented on food before, mentioned how good it was to have a proper meal after so long. Despite Tanya finally speaking up after a long time, Kassel was not pleased.
“Was yesterday’s measure not quite effective?”
Kassel barely touched his meal, only picking at the salad that didn’t even have olive oil on it.
Tanya, spooning up some soft-boiled eggs, spoke honestly.
“It was a bit extreme.”
“Although the goal was to provoke the councilors, I think it was misguided. Attacking those with a sense of authority with arguments devoid of authority only breeds resentment. If that resentment is used to concentrate the council’s power against me rather than towards our goals, it’s a failure.”
“It certainly seems like a failure at this point. By your calculations, several councilors should have come to apologize this morning, but none have shown up.”
“Perhaps it was bad timing for Rai to reveal his wings.”
“Looking at it now, it seems so.”
“Indeed.”
Kassel scratched his head. She smiled and placed her finger on the glass of water in front of Kassel. A drop of water floated up and burst in front of Kassel’s face.
“It’s rather comforting that you only show such a side of yourself to me. It makes me feel special.”
“Have I done that?”
Kassel asked, flustered.
“There aren’t many who get to see you worry over unresolved issues. You’ll likely fret all you want now, but when you stand before the councilors, you’ll be as bold as you were yesterday, threatening them again.”
“Did I seem bold? I tried hard to appear so.”
“If you weren’t the captain of the Wolf Knights, I’d have taken you to Lutia to make you a spokesperson. I could only think of scaring the councilors into submission with magic.”
“Obedience won through fear collapses under greater fear. No matter how much I threaten, I cannot surpass the fear instilled by the Lord of the Undying. Yesterday was a failure. I should have shown more sincerity.”
Kassel began to worry again.
“A person who genuinely accepts another’s sincerity cannot be a politician! That’s what my master used to say. Though I regret yesterday’s actions now, if you had shown a submissive attitude by being honest with everyone, the outcome might have been worse. Don’t regret yesterday’s actions.”
“My father always said it’s best to exile anyone who has been involved in politics for over ten years to the desert.”
“Pfft!”
Tanya barely managed to stop the egg she was eating from spewing out, covering her mouth with her hand.
“That’s more than just retirement, isn’t it?”
“Even if retired, nobles continue to influence the royal family, and councilors exert power in the Council of Elders. My father particularly hated the Council of Elders. Once he had a drink, he’d always rant about old men… He actually disliked my grandfather a lot, too.”
“Your family stories are always a pleasure to hear. I’d love to meet your father someday.”
“When will you tell me your story, Tanya?”
“It’s not a pleasant tale. But I’ll certainly share it with you one day.”
Tanya said with a firm expression, and Kassel nodded.
“Don’t Jaymer and Rai eat breakfast?”
Kassel asked, looking out the window.
“They’ve probably eaten already. Both joined one of the continent’s three greatest knight orders, so they didn’t wait around for anyone and left together.”
“‘Left together’ isn’t a phrase that suits them.”
Kassel said as he resumed his meal.
Tanya nodded, wiping her mouth with a napkin.
“They still glare at each other like they’re ready to stab each other given the chance. Jaymer has started fewer quarrels since he realized he couldn’t match Rai, but if they fought to the death, Rai would have to be on guard. Jaymer is ‘that kind of swordsman’ after all.”
“You say such frightening things so nonchalantly.”
“Didn’t you also realize? Those two are like wild bulls without bridles. I still remember the image of Rai in chains in the cell. The fact that he’s still with us without causing any incidents is surprising. Did you take any special measures while I was away?”
“No measures, no management. As I said, taming wild bulls and putting them in a stable means they’re no longer wild, doesn’t it?”
Although he wasn’t full, Kassel finished his meal. He asked the maids to clear the plates and bit into a piece of fruit.
“They may be free-spirited, but those with the name of Wolf belong to a knightly order. Master Quain, who controlled them so well, is truly remarkable. But I don’t need to follow his methods. I can’t, and I’m not qualified. I’ll just let Jay and Rai be. Just like that… hoping they follow me without causing trouble.”
“You sound like a teacher dealing with unruly students.”
“At least I have a sense of responsibility, don’t I? If those two cause trouble, I’ll be dead.”
Kassel laughed heartily. Tanya sighed.
“You say frightening things so nonchalantly, Kassel.”
“Now that I’ve said it, it is a bit scary. I hope they get along…”
Kassel looked out the window again. Someone in a gray robe was standing there. Before Kassel could blink, they walked away quickly and disappeared from view.
“Did you see that, just now?”
“What?”
Tanya asked, looking out the window belatedly.
Kassel told her what he had seen. Tanya looked where Kassel had pointed but shook her head.
“I didn’t sense anything. If it was ‘him,’ I would have known for sure.”
“Was it just my imagination?”
“Who knows. There’s no trace of magic, so…”
Tanya said, feeling uneasy.
“Let’s stay alert just in case.”
☆ ☆ ☆
Jay was sitting on a rock, eating a sandwich with meat, dissatisfied with the breakfast that only offered grass. Rai had taken off his robe, revealing his white wings. He had quickly made a garment yesterday that allowed his wings to fit through, a simple black cloth that suited him well.
Dragon knights, noticing Rai from afar, approached them.
“This is a sacred training ground only accessible to the knights. Who are you?”
One knight asked.
“You call it a sacred training ground, yet no one’s training?”
Jay asked back, his cheeks bulging with bread.
“The Dragon Knights’ training and lessons follow a strict schedule.”
“So, you don’t train or duel outside of that schedule?”
“Duel?”
The tall, brown-haired knight with a gold necklace around his neck laughed loudly. Though clearly past his twenties, his face was riddled with acne and shone with oil.
Seeing a realistic skin type after only seeing Rai’s clean, smooth skin, Jay unconsciously touched his own face and forehead.
‘My face must be just as bad.’
The knight scrutinized Jay from head to toe before shouting.
“What are you glaring at, you punk?”
Other knights nearby also approached. Having heard rumors about a fairy from the Sky Mountains staying in the quarters, they were intrigued to see Rai.
Although they were now a spectacle, Rai remained indifferent as usual.
“I’m disappointed that knights don’t train. I thought I’d be able to duel to my heart’s content like in the Wolf Knights.”
“Given our order’s fame, there are indeed some ridiculous challengers. Are you one of them?”
An older knight spoke calmly.
“Perhaps I am one of those types…”
“I heard you’re escorting Captain Wolf. Are you also from the Wolf Knights?”
Jay pondered for a moment and shook his head.
“Probably not.”
At this ambiguous response, a few knights nearby chuckled. Jay, thirsty from eating the hard bread, stood up.
“If there’s nothing to gain here, let’s just go. Rai, let’s leave. There’s nothing for us in this order.”
One of the knights grabbed Jay’s shoulder.
“I can’t just let that slide. What do you mean by that?”
“Don’t read too much into it. Do you want to fight?”
“If it’s a duel you want, I’m ready.”
“I’ve got a sword too.”
Jay turned slightly.
Other knights intervened to stop the two from fighting.
“What’s going on? Calm down.”
“This is not a place for vulgar duels.”
Jay placed his hand on the sword at his waist and delivered the line he had been preparing.
“In any place, if both sides do their best, the fight is sacred.”
What Jay wanted to say was, “If both sides do their best, any fight is sacred.” Although his meaning was not conveyed perfectly, the sheer confidence with which he spoke left the knights no choice but to discuss it among themselves.
“What’s the matter with all of you? Back off, he’s a guest of the knights.”
A knight who had rushed over to stop the fight shouted.
“And you too, respect the Dragon Knights and stop fighting… hmm? Aren’t you Jaymer?”
The knight recognized Jay immediately.
Jay, who was not good at remembering people, asked nonchalantly.
“Who are you?”
“Brander! Didn’t I help you collect the bounty when you killed that murderer nicknamed the Hell Axe? Everyone, this is the hunter I was telling you about.”
He laughed heartily, explaining to everyone.
Jay finally remembered.
“Ah, I remember now.”
He also recalled saying that if the Wolf Knights turned out to be worse than their reputation, he’d come back and knock on the Dragon Knights’ door.
“How was it, the Wolf Knights?”
Brander asked with a pleasant smile.
“It was better than the rumors. On the other hand, this place you so confidently recommended is disappointing.”
Jay said frankly.
Despite the other knights’ hostile glares, Brander did not lose his smile and asked.
“What makes you think that?”
“A knight order that doesn’t train, can you call it a knight order?”
“Oh, if that’s the case… Everyone, step back for a moment, will you?”
To Jay’s surprise, everyone obeyed Brander without question. Brander was the first to draw his sword. Jay quickly drew his sword from his belt, having been caught off guard by Brander’s sudden approach.
In an instant, Brander closed the gap with a single step. Jay was startled by Brander’s sudden move.
“How about that? Does it look like a knight who doesn’t train would have this kind of skill?”
Jay responded honestly.
“No.”
“We just follow our training schedule. Clashing swords isn’t the only form of training.”
Brander sheathed his sword again.
“A while back, you, a former hunter, went to Aranthia to meet the Wolf Knights. Now, a month later, you show up here with Captain Wolf. I wasn’t wrong about you. You’re a great talent and someone with a connection to this place.”
Jay went silent, a vision of his father’s face coming to mind.
‘There’s definitely a connection.’
Brander continued speaking.
“Well, we have our rules, and the Dragon Knights don’t want to have a strained relationship with talented individuals like yourself. So, although it’s not scheduled, I’ll propose a friendly match to the Captain. Does your fairy friend also wish to compete against humans? It would be an honor if the first opponent were the Dragon Knights.”
Jay couldn’t argue against Brander’s friendly tone.
“Sure, why not.”
Brander managed the other angry knights and left. He didn’t forget to wave a brief goodbye.
“Quite impressive in a different way.”
Jay muttered, comparing Kassel and Brander.
Rai, who had been silently observing the whole time, spoke.
“Interesting.”
“Who? Me? Him?”
“The Ugehs.”
Jay folded his arms.
“Kassel explained this to me, but I forgot. What are Ugehs?”
Rai kept his gaze forward, ignoring Jay’s question.
☆ ☆ ☆
It was not the Council nor the Council of Elders but the Grand Rock, a gathering of sorcerers, who first responded to yesterday’s events. It was likely the highest assembly of sorcerers in Carnelock, but to Tanya, only about a hundred of them could be considered true sorcerers. Naturally, there were fewer than ten sorcerers at the level of a Kainswick instructor.
In a society where status was strictly based on skill, the appearance of Tanya, a Master of Lutia, was far beyond Kassel’s arrival at the Council. They greeted her with such deference that they seemed ready to kneel if she commanded it.
Tanya borrowed a meeting room within the knights’ building and summoned ten of the older sorcerers. Even after entering the room, they stood until she sat down first. Reluctantly, Tanya sat, and they followed suit.
‘This is uncomfortable. But it’s familiar. It’s easier with Kassel, Jay, and Rai.’
Tanya greeted the sorcerers.
“Nice to meet you. I’m Tanya, a newly graduated sorceress from Lutia. Many of you I’ve met before.”
Tanya subtly observed the sorcerers. They could be allies in the upcoming battles. However, it was disappointing. She had hoped for at least one or two sorcerers at Flora’s level, but there were none.
“Newly graduated, Master Tanya? Anyway, it’s been years since we last met.”
The oldest sorcerer and the chairman of the Grand Rock, Rependas, spoke in a low voice. All the sorcerers, including the chairman, seemed restless. Tanya knew it wasn’t just the title of Master that intimidated them. It was the staff she held.
‘They must recognize the symbol of the Grand Master.’
The sorcerers hoped Tanya would mention the staff first, but she deliberately avoided the topic, fearing it would prolong the conversation.
“Let’s skip the formalities. We have urgent matters to address.”
“Yes. We reviewed the information relayed by the Council’s scribe regarding yesterday’s incident. We came to confirm our concerns, despite knowing it might disrupt your rest.”
Tanya nodded, waiting for him to continue.
“We have been observing several unusual phenomena recently. The appearances of the Black Knight around Carnelock, ghosts, heretical sects, and traces of evil magic… Hearing that you came from the Sky Mountains, we feared our concerns were justified.”
“Yes, Chairman Rependas. The Lord of the Undying is targeting Carnelock.”
Tanya did not mince words.
The elderly sorcerers groaned softly.
“It’s true, then. What can we sorcerers do against such immense power? Is there no aid from Lutia?”
“There is none. Lutia also suffered significant damage and will take a long time to recover. Currently, we must rely on the strength of those present. How many sorcerers can we gather in Carnelock?”
“We will investigate.”
Tanya concluded the meeting by discussing how to gather forces and promising to visit the Grand Rock for detailed information.
Kassel listened to Tanya’s report and tried to sound hopeful.
“At least we’re not entirely alone. That’s reassuring.”
‘He’s anxious. There’s still no word from the Council.’
Tanya spoke openly.
“We can’t expect much. It’s not fair to judge those willing to help, but even if we combined all their strength, it wouldn’t match a single Master from Lutia. Yet, Lutia fell despite having eight such Masters.”
“Wasn’t that because magic didn’t work then? It’s different here…”
“Against the Lord of the Undying, human magic is practically useless. Kassel, you’ve only seen the gray sorcerer before Queen Sanadiel. Can you imagine the power he wields outside that setting? He even uses Ka-Guanil as a subordinate. Honestly, even if I muster all my magic, I’d struggle to handle just Guanil.”
Tanya didn’t even mention another major enemy, Ruskin. Kassel understood the fear of Ruskin better. Kassel had confessed that when Ruskin stared at him in Tachisel, it felt like facing another Guanil. The fact that Ruskin had turned to the side of darkness was an unspoken, terrifying realization.
“Don’t worry. It’s not too late yet.”
Tanya tried to comfort him, but Kassel beat her to it.
Tanya smiled, stood up, and extended her hand.
“Shall we take a walk? They say the garden is more beautiful at night.”
“I was just thinking the same thing.”
Kassel took her hand and stood up.
Walking through the beautiful garden that rivaled the ‘Heavenly Garden’ of the Council, Kassel spoke about the person who had designed it. Tanya listened to his voice like music, responding absentmindedly, yet she found joy in it.
The expansive flower bed at the garden’s center welcomed them. During the day, it was a riot of colors, but at night, it offered a rich tapestry of black and white, stirring the hearts of those who entered.
Tanya wanted to share this beauty with Kassel, but when she turned to him, his face was downcast.
“What’s wrong?”
Tanya asked.
“This place feels like it would bring back sad memories. I don’t want to stay too long, but I don’t want to leave either…”
Kassel stood there for a long time.
They saw a light in the garden where there shouldn’t be any at night and found, quite unexpectedly, Jaymer standing by the fountain, hands on his hips, staring blankly into the distance.
‘Ah, Jaymer always seems to intrude at moments like this, unintentionally causing frustration.’
Tanya sighed.
“What are you doing?”
Jay asked.
“What are you doing?”
Kassel replied, his voice filled with the same frustration Tanya felt.
Jay placed the lantern he was holding next to the fountain.
“This fountain is fascinating. It just spurts water automatically. Regularly. Watch.”
Just then, several streams of water shot up forcefully from the fountain. The droplets shattered in the air, reflecting the moonlight and lantern light in a misty spray. The dragon sculptures decorating the fountain looked like mysterious creatures emerging from a dense fog. It was unusual for Jay to be so captivated by something like this, waiting and watching on purpose.
Kassel pulled Jay aside and whispered something to him. Tanya let them have their private conversation and watched the fountain with her hands behind her back.
At that moment, a faint killing intent, detectable only by a sorceress’s senses, approached from behind. It was invisible but undeniable in presence.
Tanya tensed sharply.
‘What should I do? Should I move together?’
If she moved with them, Kassel could get hurt. If the opponent used magic, Jay would only be a hindrance.
‘I’d better take it on myself. Jaymer can focus on protecting Kassel.’
Tanya confirmed that Jay had his sword and spoke.
“Kassel, Jaymer, would you stay here for a moment? I’ll be right back.”
“Oh, uh, sure.”
Kassel replied, somewhat flustered for some reason.
Tanya turned and walked across the garden towards the knights’ building. Passing through a short maze of flowering and fragrant trees, she found the source of her unease in the middle of a lawn. The oppressive power of darkness made the nearby flowers droop. Just a touch from her hand caused a flower to fall to the ground.
On the lawn stood a knight in black armor mounted on a black horse. Unlike the supposedly invincible first knight of Excelon, this one exuded no sign of life, a true ghost.
She had encountered evil spirits and resurrected corpses during her travels, but this black knight was different.
She understood why the White Wolves had struggled to stop him in Camort.
“Tanya…”
The knight called her name with a grating metallic voice, the same one that had attacked her at the inn in Leofio.
“You’ve returned?”
Tanya took a firm step forward, channeling her power.
A path of frost spread across the lawn, creating a white trail between her and the black knight. The white frost climbed up the legs of the knight’s horse, freezing its legs, then its neck, and finally, its head. The frost crept up the knight’s body, freezing his feet, waist, chest, and finally the tip of his helmet. Both the horse and the knight turned as white as if they had been encased in ice for decades.
Despite this, hot breath steamed from inside the knight’s helmet. He spoke in a deep, harsh Lemif tongue.
“Your magic is powerless before the strength my master bestowed upon me.”
He forcefully moved his frozen arm, cracking his gauntlet’s joints, producing a grating sound. He grasped the sword at his waist. Despite the freezing cold, the sword remained intact. As he drew it, parts of his arm broke off, but he did not drop the sword.
“What else does real magic have to offer beyond this?”
The black knight continued in the Lemif tongue.
Tanya raised a finger and replied in human language.
“If you can still talk like that, it means this won’t kill you, right?”
Without warning, a transparent blade slashed down at the black knight and his horse. The frozen, heavy armor shattered, and the horse disintegrated into dozens of pieces.
Tanya waited for a moment.
The black aura around the broken armor pieces began to swirl and lift each fragment into the air, reassembling them rapidly down to the tiniest piece. The black knight stood up with a creak, and the horse, too, reformed and let out a long, fierce cry.
It was like the roar of a predator, not a herbivore.
“I am the emissary sent by the Lord of the Undying. Did you think such magic would kill me?”
The knight sneered.
“I was testing how to kill you with minimal mess in the garden.”
Tanya raised her hand, preparing stronger magic. But before she could cast it, the black knight spoke in a low, unpleasant tone.
“Aren’t you worried about the people you left behind?”
Tanya thought of Kassel for a moment. The knight seized on her brief hesitation.
“What if I’m here just to stall you, Master Tanya?”
“Do you think I’d waste time dealing with someone like you?”
Tanya retorted.
The knight dismounted and picked up the hilt of his shattered sword. The broken pieces of the blade reassembled using the black aura as an adhesive.
Nodding his helmet, the knight said.
“My master ordered me not to kill you. However, if necessary, he said it would be good to take at least an arm or a leg.”
The knight, like a child warming up for a sprint, bounced lightly on his feet. Despite the weight of his armor, he moved effortlessly. He closed the distance in an instant.
Tanya extended her hand, unleashing a spell to freeze everything in its path. The knight met the spell head-on, yet his speed did not wane.
‘Fast.’
Tanya thought. Hoping she could withstand his speed, she released all her gathered power.
☆ ☆ ☆
Even though Jay had hinted at it, Kassel was very surprised when a woman approached them by the fountain. It was obvious she had come on purpose, yet she pretended to be startled as if it were a coincidence.
“Governor Narbeni! If this were the garden of the Council, it wouldn’t be surprising, but to meet here is quite unexpected.”
Kassel said in a deep voice with a slight smile.
“Indeed? I also thought we’d meet inside the knights’ building, not in the garden. I came out for a walk to compose myself before meeting the Captain, but running into you here, I’m afraid I’m not prepared yet.”
Despite her words, the smile on Narbeni’s face was full of confidence. She placed the lantern she was carrying beside the fountain, adding to the light that Jay had brought, making the area around the fountain quite bright.
Despite the darkness, Narbeni’s facial contours were clear. Her makeup was heavy, even for a nighttime outing.
Her skin, both on her face and arms, was smooth. Considering the dim lighting, she didn’t look her age.
She wore a dress draped over one shoulder, revealing her ample bosom with each movement. As she walked, the slit in her skirt exposed her thigh, capturing attention.
Jay spoke bluntly.
“Do you have business here, Governor?”
“I’m in conversation with your captain, so could you please step aside?”
The smile on Narbeni’s red lips was enough to dazzle most men.
“I’m Kassel’s bodyguard.”
Jay replied, but Narbeni’s gaze remained fixed on Kassel.
“Does someone of the Captain of the Wolf Knights’ stature need a bodyguard?”
Jay was at a loss for words.
Kassel gently pushed Jay aside and spoke.
“Yes, I do. I’m quite afraid of being alone at night and can’t stand it without someone by my side… If you have business, speak here, Governor Narbeni. Jaymer is more than just a guard and can’t leave his post.”
“A guard with responsibilities beyond guarding?”
Narbeni continued to disregard Jay. But Kassel stood firm.
“He is not just a simple guard. Everything I hear, Jaymer must also know. Tanya and Rai, though not present, will also be informed. So please, speak freely.”
“Even secrets?”
Narbeni scrutinized Jay again and flashed a charming smile. But Jay, displeased with her smile, only frowned.
“Yes.”
Kassel also smiled gently.
“It seems I’ve interrupted your valuable time, Captain. But I’ve been waiting all day and came at this hour on purpose, so I ask for your understanding.”
“Matters of the Council are always welcome.”
“Captain Wolf, today the Council had another meeting without you and reevaluated your position. Surprisingly, even the Council of Elders, which usually opposes such matters, showed support for you. Have you met Councilor Romnor?”
“I haven’t.”
“Interesting.”
Narbeni continued with interest.
“He wishes for you to attend the Council again. He plans to formally express his support for you. While many councilors still harbor doubts about you, his endorsement will be significant. I came to relay this message.”
“Was it necessary for the Governor herself to come for such a matter?”
Kassel asked, puzzled.
Narbeni shook her head, her golden hair wafting a floral scent around them.
“I was rude to Master Quain when he visited here before, so I wanted to leave a better impression on you, Captain Wolf.”
“To the Master?”
“Yes, it’s an embarrassing story. I was immature then and foolishly confessed my feelings to Quain upon meeting him, only to be promptly rejected.”
She laughed, her face flushing.
“I’ve told an unnecessary story. I’ve lost the courage to say what I wanted to. Anyway, be careful, Captain Wolf. There are unpleasant rumors circulating in Rock. Some claim a fake Captain of Aranthia is impersonating you, and worse, that Aranthia is planning to invade Carnelock… A Black Knight even appeared near my residence.”
Kassel’s eyes widened.
“A Black Knight?”
“Yes, it was strange. The armor was reminiscent of the Excelon Knights, which startled me greatly.”
Narbeni seemed genuinely frightened, clutching her chest.
“You survived an encounter with one?”
Kassel asked.
“If you have a bodyguard, so do I.”
Jay had his hand on his sword. Kassel didn’t think Jay was overreacting.
Behind Narbeni, two men appeared silently, glaring at Kassel. They were not in armor but wore distinctive knight attire resembling formal dress with shoulder sashes made of silk and white capes.
Narbeni, noticing Jay’s intense gaze, turned and saw them. When her guards drew their swords menacingly, she scolded them.
“Stand down!”
The knights sheathed their swords and bowed apologetically. Narbeni sighed and apologized to Kassel.
“They’ve been excited since yesterday upon hearing that the Captain of the renowned Wolf Knights had arrived. If you get the chance, perhaps you could temper their arrogance.”
“Given the circumstances, let’s leave that for later. I’m far weaker than my guard here. If there’s a duel, Jaymer will represent me. Is that acceptable, Jaymer?”
Jay, glaring at the two knights, replied.
“Of course!”
Kassel patted Jay’s shoulder, soothing him.
“As you can see. But let’s not duel now. We need to unite against a greater enemy. I particularly wish to maintain a good relationship with you three governors.”
“I hope so too. I’d like to be the first step in that direction.”
Narbeni smiled and extended her hand. Kassel also extended his hand, but before they could shake, a man’s voice interrupted.
“Governor! Who gave you permission to enter this garden?”
It was Captain Deradul. Narbeni shrugged with a playful smile.
“I received permission from the clerk, Captain Deradul.”
“The clerk?”
Deradul muttered, already considering how to punish the clerk tomorrow. His fierce gaze then focused on Narbeni.
“Leave immediately. If you have business with Captain Wolf, go through official channels or speak to the Council’s spokesperson. I’m tired of personal conversations being used for political maneuvers.”
Kassel thought Deradul’s words were too harsh. Whatever had transpired between them, Deradul was showing blatant hostility. Narbeni, on the verge of tears from the insult, finally exploded.
“Such familiarity with councilors is excessive.”
“So now you intend to drag Captain Wolf into your bed too?”
Narbeni’s face turned red, her lips trembling.
“How dare you, Captain Deradul. Such slander from you is unexpected!”
“Slander?”
“Yes. It’s a baseless rumor spread by foolish men who resent capable women rising to the position of Governor! I admit, I made mistakes in my youth due to unrestrained desires. But since becoming Governor, I’ve lived carefully to avoid disgracing the Council. I expected better from you, but I’m disappointed. Or are you the kind of man who would disparage a woman’s past to humiliate her?”
“I respect many female politicians, but you don’t deserve to be among them. And your past? I’m speaking of the present!”
The heated exchange between the two was intense enough to make Kassel feel uncomfortable.
“You will pay for this rudeness, Captain Deradul!”
Narbeni said as she passed Kassel with her guards in tow.
“Be careful of Deradul. I don’t know how he was before, but now I’m not sure he deserves to be Captain of the Dragon Knights.”
She said it loud enough for Deradul to hear.
Deradul retorted.
“The suspicions regarding the last Governor’s election are still unresolved! Mind your actions.”
Narbeni hesitated but continued walking out of the garden. Deradul scratched his head nervously and spoke to Kassel.
“One thing to remember. Rock’s Council is not what it used to be. Councilors and Governors alike are desperate to use you.”
Kassel pondered for a moment before speaking.
“So, should I doubt you as well?”
“Feel free. I’ll bear such suspicion.”
Deradul welcomed it.
“Are you going to the Council tomorrow?”
“Yes.”
Kassel had many questions for Deradul. Stories about the war from ten years ago, tales involving Quain, and his friendship with the former Queen’s Guardian Knight, Master Grandol. But Kassel knew he had to put aside his personal curiosity for now.
‘I’ll have the chance to hear them later. Now isn’t the time.’
Kassel continued speaking gently.
“Honestly, I’m worried about how to persuade the councilors.”
“I feel the same way.”
It seemed Deradul had come to Kassel to discuss this very matter. But their conversation was abruptly cut off.
“I just hope the councilors understand my concerns even a little bit…”
A loud noise suddenly erupted from behind. Deradul stopped mid-sentence.
“It’s coming from the direction of the knights’ office!”
Jay said, and Kassel immediately ran towards the sound.
It was the direction Tanya had gone.
☆ ☆ ☆
Despite losing an arm to Tanya’s magic, the Black Knight swung his sword. Tanya leapt into the air to avoid the blade, landing some distance away. But the Black Knight didn’t relent, following her and raising his sword again. He was too fast for her to prepare another spell.
Tanya caught the blade with her bare hand. A white light exploded between her palm and the sword. Though she blocked the blade, she couldn’t stop the magic emanating from it. Black smoke, like a snake, wrapped around her wrist, slid up her arm, and entered her body.
“Ugh.”
The areas touched by the smoke felt like they were burning. Realizing she couldn’t escape, she gripped the sword tighter. The snake-like smoke dispersed, and the blade shattered like glass. The Black Knight immediately let go of the sword and slapped Tanya across the face with his other hand. She couldn’t even scream as her head hit the ground.
As she tried to get up, the Black Knight was already on top of her, pinning her down. The weight was unbearable, even for just the armor. The Black Knight grabbed her face roughly. Tanya realized she couldn’t defeat him without getting hurt and focused her energy towards his abdomen.
‘I’ll probably get a few scars.’
Tanya waited for the moment his fist was about to strike her face. She calmly waited for the right moment when his movement would stop. Suddenly, the pressure on her body disappeared. The Black Knight’s grip on her face was gone.
Tanya stopped her magic.
A larger figure, even bigger than the Black Knight in armor, was lifting the knight by the scruff of his neck. Large wings spread wide behind him. Despite the knight’s weight, Rai lifted him with one hand and grabbed the arm that had held Tanya’s face with the other.
Rai threw the Black Knight. The heavy armor crashed into the garden wall, breaking it. The black horse, as if to protect its master, charged at Rai with glowing red eyes, but Rai stopped it with a glare.
The horse reared up several times in a threatening manner, but Rai didn’t budge. He only prepared to counter if it attacked. Eventually, the horse retreated slowly.
“Are you alright?”
Rai asked. Tanya stood up, dusting off her clothes.
“I’m fine.”
The Black Knight quickly stood up. His broken sword and arm had already regenerated. Despite the evil energy protecting him, his rapid recovery meant his master was nearby.
The Black Knight spoke in the Lemif language.
“You’re from the Sky Mountains.”
“Are you a servant of Guanil? You have the same smell.”
Rai asked.
“That question is meaningless.”
The Black Knight mounted his horse and rode off without looking back, leaping over the wall with incredible strength.
Rai started to give chase, but Tanya stopped him.
“Don’t go. It’s too dangerous.”
From a distance, several more cries of that beastly horse echoed. Rai retracted his wings and asked in the Lemif language.
“Is he one of those we need to fight? Has he been here longer than us?”
Kassel was running across the garden towards them.
‘If I hadn’t used magic to protect myself, I’d be dead.’
Tanya touched her flushed cheek and awkwardly responded in Lemif.
“No, they aren’t from the Sky Mountains.”
Jay and Captain Deradul were following Kassel.
Tanya watched Deradul’s unreadable expression as she spoke.
“They are beings that someone in Rock prepared before we arrived.”
“Jaymer was right.”
“About what?”
“Kassel’s side is a battlefield.”
“Do you regret following?”
“It means I’m satisfied. Kassel kept his promise.”
Rai continued to speak in Lemif while watching the direction the Black Knight had disappeared.
“And he’s keeping it now.”
☆ ☆ ☆
Blood dripped from a corpse hanging from the ceiling onto his shoulder.
The Black Knight stood still, awaiting his master’s commands. The floor was stained with sticky blood. A woman chained to a table in front of him began to scream in pain as soon as she regained consciousness.
“P-please…”
She begged the black figure, who resembled a demon.
“Kill… me.”
Just three days ago, she had been an ordinary fisherman’s wife who had come to Rock to sell salt. After she disappeared, her husband had scoured the entire city for her. Naturally, he couldn’t find her, and people advised him to stop searching, thinking she had run off with another man.
But now, here she was, addicted to strange fumes, unable to remember half of each day and writhing in pain for the other half. Every night, she begged the demon-like creature to kill her.
“What are you talking about?”
The demon with white fangs emerging from the darkness spoke.
“You’re already dead. That heart writhing on the table is yours. Other ‘subjects’ realized that sooner. This one is slow.”
The fisherman’s wife looked at her heart on the table with trembling eyes. Everything in the room seemed distorted through her dazed vision.
The Black Knight received his master’s command and stabbed the heart with his sword. She screamed and threw her head back. The unbearable pain forced a torrent of thick blood from her mouth.
Her body was slowly hoisted by chains and hung from the ceiling. Though already dead, she continued to breathe, bleed, and groan.
The numerous corpses hanging for years were similarly tormented, emitting barely audible groans. Some had given up long ago, while others still begged to be killed. Yet all were incapable of dying.
Huge black wings with feathers caught the dripping blood. The feathers, like chicks competing for their mother’s food, twitched to catch the blood. The absorbed blood flowed through thick veins visible under the translucent skin.
“I wish I could show Captain Kassel this sight.”
A deep laugh echoed in the basement, silencing even the screams of the victims.
“You are too late. I am already prepared for everything.”
☆ ☆ ☆
“Everything is ready. Powel is about to lead Mozes’ army over the Sky Mountains, and Ka-Guanil will soon set foot in Acrand, free from the magic of the Sky Mountains.”
Ruskin approached quietly, speaking. Victor, who had been sipping wine while gazing at the moon, frowned and smacked his lips at Ruskin’s voice.
‘There goes my good mood for drinking.’
It wasn’t that he disliked Ruskin, but Ruskin always had poor timing. Whether he knew Victor’s mood or not, Ruskin approached and asked.
“But what worries you so?”
Victor replied in a tone that indicated he didn’t want to talk.
“Because we lost Nathan.”
“Nathan, a splendid commander and an outstanding knight. But in a matter of such magnitude, there’s never complete preparation. Sacrifices must be accepted.”
Ruskin spoke matter-of-factly, and Victor burst into laughter.
“You misunderstand, Ruskin. I’m not saying that the war will be tough because of Nathan’s sacrifice. I’m thinking that without Nathan, we might lose this war.”
Ruskin set his large staff aside and created a small campfire to ward off the chill night air.
‘He probably thinks it’s considerate, but all it does is obscure the moonlight,’ Victor thought.
Victor figured that Ruskin would eventually leave once he felt it was time. Regardless of what he said or did, Victor wanted to enjoy his drink. Knowing how busy he’d be soon, this might be his last chance.
“I won’t ask how you met Nathan or how you reached this point. But what can be done about the loss? You must endure.”
“Thanks for the advice.”
“I won’t accept such insincere gratitude. Anyway, what’s the point of thanking each other when we’re both generals in a demon’s army aiming to destroy humanity?”
Victor chuckled and poured a drink for Ruskin.
“For the first time since we met, you say something I like. Since we’re on the topic, let me ask: Why did you betray Lutia and decide to help the demon’s army?”
“Because the Lord himself asked for my help.”
‘That sounds like a story with a lot of backstory,’ Victor thought.
Victor licked the liquor from his lips and asked.
“Is that all?”
“Expecting something special? And you?”
“I… thought it would be interesting?”
Victor finished his sentence with a question mark.
“My reason seems grander.”
Both of them laughed briefly. Suddenly, a cold wind blew out the campfire. A magical fire should not be extinguished by mere wind.
‘Damn it, I was hoping Ruskin would leave, and now we’ve got another intruder.’
Victor sighed.
The moonlight dimmed, and the stars disappeared. The air grew heavy, and even the faintest breeze vanished. Ruskin stood up respectfully and bowed towards the empty space. Victor didn’t rise but set his drink down with a displeased expression.
‘Just let me drink!’
A man in a gray robe stood before them, the Lord of the Undying, master of everything, including Victor. He spoke slowly.
“You both have endured much hardship in the Sky Mountains. You’ve exceeded my expectations.”
Standing beside the Lord was another man.
Ruskin was startled upon seeing him.
“Who is this…?”
“It’s the person you know.”
The gray-robed sorcerer turned his gaze to Victor.
“I heard the entire conversation. Victor, I remember when you first brought Nathan. You were delighted as if you’d found another version of yourself. But I still only need you. Longing for Nathan is probably because you’re missing an arm, isn’t it?”
Victor replied irritably.
“It’s not that.”
The gray-robed sorcerer overlooked Victor’s defiance.
“Soon, the one I planted in Rock will destroy it from within. When you two arrive, the war will end easily.”
Victor shrugged at his words.
‘If it were that easy, why did we bother gathering Mozes’ army?’
The plan was to split Carnelock in half, attacking Camort with one half and Irophis with the other. Then, slowly isolate and squeeze Aranthia. According to the plan, Lutia should already be conquered. Aranthia would be destroyed slowly, unable to call for reinforcements… This was how it was supposed to go.
But the plan was falling apart.
Lutia wasn’t completely conquered. The Lemifs hadn’t been properly divided. The army of the dead prepared in Irophis was defeated by the royal knights, which was understandable, as it wasn’t that strong an army. However, the failure of the Red Rose Count in Camort was incomprehensible. It wasn’t a force that should have fallen to merely five White Wolves.
Victor didn’t trust anyone beyond his control. And he didn’t like these long-drawn-out strategy meetings.
“I came today to give you your missing arm. It will replace Nathan.”
“That’s excellent.”
Victor presented his shoulder where his arm was missing.
“It will be nice to hold both the glass and the bottle when I drink.”
Ruskin spoke in a flat tone, unable to stand it anymore.
“That’s disrespectful, Victor. That’s not how you speak of a favor.”
“It’s alright, Ruskin.”
The gray-robed man placed his hand on Victor’s shoulder. The pain was intense, but Victor gritted his teeth and bore it with only a grimace. He took a sip of his drink and exhaled, and a new arm had formed.
The gray-robed sorcerer pulled back his hood, revealing his face.
The Lord of the Undying, whom Victor had last seen before the war ten years ago, was Count Shraighton of Lontamon. The face now was not one Victor recognized, as had been foretold.
“Is there anything else you need?”
“To destroy the world?”
Victor narrowed his eyes and smiled.
“Time to drink alone under the moon.”
The Lord of the Undying replied with a childlike grin.
“As you wish.”
He soon vanished.
Moments later, the southern Sky Mountains began to tremble. The forces of Guanil and the Lord of the Undying were pushing against the barrier of the Sky Mountains from both sides. Invisible forces clashed, making the air and ground shudder.
It wasn’t long before it settled. By then, Ruskin had also disappeared.
Victor placed his left hand on the ground and lifted his drink to his lips with his right. The peaceful moonlit night had returned. It was the perfect darkness for drinking.
‘The next drink will be perfect after the world ends.’
–TL Notes–
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