Evilness, the all-consuming power that holds sway over life and death.

After the exercise, most of the students headed to the cafeteria for lunch. We gathered at a table specifically brought out for the royal family and the Saint. Today, both Sakura and Carlos joined us, adding to the already lively atmosphere. As I sat there, observing everyone at the table, I realized something—I was the only one with multiple partners. It struck me, the uniqueness of my situation. Even Marceline, who had been widowed once, only had one previous partner before the prince proposed to her.

Does this make me feel special? Or is it more of a burden of responsibility? It dawned on me that perhaps this is why most people only have one partner—the weight of it all. The responsibility, the emotional ties. But then again, I wasn’t the only one in this position. With the population skewed—63% women to 37% men—there were other men with multiple partners, and from what I’ve heard, there are also plenty of same-sex couples. I shook the thought from my head, but not before Luyira noticed the shift in my mood.

Luyira smiled gently, rubbing her hand through my hair. "You have nothing to worry about," she said softly, her presence always managing to calm me.

"There's no reason to think so much," Luyira continued with a playful grin. Her confidence was always infectious, even when I felt uncertain.

Sakura, ever perceptive, chimed in, "That’s right. I’m not sure what’s on your mind, but whatever it is, we’re all here for you."

Carlos, sitting across from me, gave a reassuring nod. "We can always count on you, too," he said earnestly.

Saint Mary then spoke, her voice calm yet firm, "Indeed. I trust you will do your best in your current circumstances. I’ve seen how capable you are."

Alidia, regal as ever, studied me for a moment before speaking. "My dear child," she began, her tone gentle but carrying weight, "your behavior today was... unexpected. Despite your calm and composed exterior, there’s a potent energy inside you—volatile, yet controlled. Unfortunately, we lack the means to measure it. Perhaps only a Retter Messiah like Mary could truly understand the full extent of it."

I glanced at Mary for reassurance, then turned back to Alidia. "But is this energy mine... or is it Destroyer’s?" I asked, unsure where the power truly came from.

Destroyer’s voice echoed in my mind, firm and clear. "It belongs to both of us. My energy can be harnessed by the one who wears me, but it’s just as much yours as it is mine."

I nodded, understanding the connection but still feeling the weight of it.

Luyira leaned in, her playful nature returning. "If we could quantify the power we have, life would be so much easier."

Saint Mary agreed, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Indeed," she said, her gaze shifting to the horizon as if contemplating the complexities of power.

Alidia’s gaze was sharp but kind. "Aido, you must remain focused. That energy—yours and Destroyer’s—needs to be balanced."

Sakura, who had been quiet for a moment, suddenly remembered something. "Will we finish the day at six as planned?" she asked, a touch of excitement in her voice.

Saint Mary smiled, a rare softness in her eyes. "Yes, if memory serves me, we have a special private lesson later."

Alidia, proud of her children, spoke next, her voice full of admiration. "You were all splendid this morning."

Luyira beamed with pride. "Thank you, Mother. I feel like a whole new person today."

I couldn’t resist teasing her. "You’re beaming now, but a few hours ago, you were in tears."

Luyira, ever quick with a retort, grinned mischievously. "Well, a woman’s heart is a mystery, isn’t it? Who wouldn’t shed a tear over missing dessert?"

I laughed. "Am I sweet, then?"

Without missing a beat, three voices answered in unison: "Yes!" Luyira, Alidia, and Mary all giggled, clearly enjoying the lightheartedness.

"Really?" I said, raising an eyebrow, feigning surprise. "I had no idea."

Carlos, always one to philosophize, leaned back in his chair. "A woman’s emotions are like a roller coaster—up and down, unpredictable."

Sakura, poking fun at him, shot back, "And what about you? You sure you’re not a woman at heart, Carlos?"

Carlos chuckled, raising his hands in mock surrender. "I may be a man, but a deeply sensitive one at that."

Luyira leaned closer, her playful grin returning. "I’d love to ride the roller coaster with Aido."

I paused for a moment, thinking. "You know, there’s only one in the capital. I’ve always wanted to ride it."

Luyira’s eyes lit up. "Ohhh! Let’s go! It would be so much fun!"

Alidia leaned forward, her brow slightly furrowed. “We have a plan, right?”

Saint Mary gave a reassuring smile. “Of course. I’ve already made arrangements with the queen.”

Sakura, ever curious, tilted her head. “What do you all want to do after the lesson?”

Luyira lit up with excitement. “I would love to go out for ice cream.”

Saint Mary interjected, her tone gentle but focused. “It’s likely we won’t have time, Luyira. We’ve got our evening lesson with the four of us—Aido, Alidia, you, and myself.”

Sakura nodded in understanding. “Ah, yes. You’re right.”

Luyira’s face fell into a pout. “I’m afraid there won’t be enough time.”

I couldn’t help but think aloud. “Perhaps we can visit the amusement park on a day off.”

Carlos perked up. “I’ll make sure to accompany you two.”

Sakura grinned. “I’ll come too! It’s a promise!”

While I valued the casual and lighthearted nature of our discussions, particularly after what had transpired the night before, I couldn’t help but feel slightly flustered. Sakura and Carlos exchanged knowing glances—evidence that they were well aware of our clandestine rendezvous.

Luyira noticed my sudden embarrassment and teased, “You’re blushing, Aido.”

Carlos chuckled. “You know what they say, it’s good to blow off steam every now and then.”

Sakura agreed, a smirk playing on her lips. “Indeed.”

The air filled with chatter. Sakura was engrossed in conversation with Luyira and Carlos, while my mother, Alidia, and Saint Mary earnestly discussed ways to help me harness and enhance my abilities. Sasari and Prince Lasui were sitting nearby, sharing observations. I watched them for a moment—Sasari’s precision and Lasui’s impressive energy control were striking. They moved and acted almost like twins, their synchronization effortless, each gesture complementing the other.

I sighed, feeling the weight of expectation on my shoulders. “It looks like I’ve got a lot more to work on.”

Sakura, always quick to offer comfort, leaned closer with a smile. “Oh, Aido, don’t think too much. Your effort is already admirable.”

Carlos nodded in agreement. “She’s right, Aido. You should enjoy this moment. You’ve earned it.”

Luyira’s warm voice followed. “Yes, my love, you’ve done well.”

I felt a wave of gratitude wash over me. “Thanks, everyone. I’m just glad to have such wonderful people by my side.”

Luyira beamed, her eyes sparkling. “Aww, I’m flattered! You’re such a charmer, Aido.”

Suddenly, Saint Mary’s tone shifted, becoming more serious. “Yesterday, when I was alone with Aido, I didn’t feel the same energy I do now. But with Destroyer, his aura... it’s different. It feels like a deep, dark well. Calm, but unsettling. Like an abyss.”

Alidia, ever thoughtful, added, “So, Aido’s power is similar to Luyira’s, then? It means that when he’s not wearing Destroyer’s armor, his power is comparable to hers. But when he wears it, the energy is amplified to the limit... to the point of destruction.”

Saint Mary nodded, her expression somber. “Yes, you’re right. Aido is very much like Luyira, but Destroyer’s power is so immense that it changes him. I hope he can learn to control it. Right now, it’s like he’s awakening to that energy, but still can’t fully command it. At least, when he uses it to protect someone, it’s focused.”

Alidia smiled, a hint of pride in her voice. “I’m proud of him, in a way. He’s learning, and he’s strong.”

As I sat listening to them, my thoughts wandered. The bond between Marceline and Lasui caught my attention, and I couldn’t help but be reminded of my own relationship with my mother. Marceline’s gestures—the way she wiped Lasui’s face with care, the way she listened intently to his thoughts on training—were full of love and maternal affection. But beneath that tenderness, there was concern. Lasui was determined to prove himself in battle, his eagerness radiating from every word he spoke.

Prince Lasui’s voice was steady, though there was a trace of something deeper—something personal. “I am confident in my abilities. I will continue to train and study, to become a leader capable of protecting my people.”

Marceline’s smile was warm, but her eyes held a hint of worry. “I believe in you, Lasui. You are a great man.”

The way they looked at each other stirred something in me. The love between a man and a woman—something I had observed since I was a child—was there, undeniable and pure. It was the kind of love I had always hoped to find for myself. And now that I had it, I could only hope I was worthy of it.

In contrast, the dialogue between Queen Jessica and King Arthur exuded the warmth and ease of a couple who had shared years together, raising children and leading a kingdom. Their conversations flowed naturally, shifting from mundane matters to more intricate concerns. Jessica, ever calm and composed, served as the emotional anchor for the King, tempering his impatience with her steady guidance. They both carried hopes and aspirations for the future, but Arthur’s drive to act often clashed with the need for caution.

King Arthur, his brow furrowed, spoke with quiet determination. “I will do everything in my power to ensure our kingdom prospers.”

Queen Jessica, her voice soft yet resolute, responded, “We must remain patient, my dear.”

Arthur let out a low sigh. “Yes, yes, I know. But that doesn’t change the fact that I would rather take action than sit idle.”

Jessica gave him a knowing look. “I am aware of your nature, but we must follow the rules.”

Arthur’s frustration was evident. “I know, but I still don’t like it.”

She smiled at him, placing a hand gently on his arm. “We will prevail. These are better times. History won’t repeat itself.”

Arthur’s expression softened, but his eyes held a lingering doubt. “I hope so. We must never forget the past, to avoid being condemned to repeat it.”

As I observed them, I couldn’t help but feel reassured by their bond. The royal family seemed to have a deep connection with their subjects, but Arthur’s words made me wonder what had happened in the past to cause such concern. Perhaps one day I could ask them to share their story. It would be interesting to hear what they had endured.

Arthur’s tone shifted, more somber now. “Our people have suffered enough. I don’t want to see anyone else die. But we keep losing people.”

The weight of his words lingered in the air as we finished our meal. We soon made our way to the training grounds, where the students were already preparing for the next challenge. An obstacle course stretched out before us—platforms separated by wide gaps, each lined with different types of obstacles. We would have to jump from platform to platform without touching the ground. The design of the course made me wonder—was this created to test some new ability?

Alidia, always precise, addressed the group. “This morning, we focused on offense and reinforcing weapons. Now, we need to work on agility. Think of it like moving... like a cat.”

Sakura, her face bright with anticipation, leaned in eagerly. “When can we try it out?” she asked, her eyes gleaming.

Saint Mary responded, her voice steady. “Once everyone has gathered.”

Luyira tilted her head, contemplating Alidia’s comparison. “Like a cat?”

Carlos chuckled softly, his voice thoughtful. “I’m not entirely sure what she means, but it’s true—you have to be quick to catch a cat.”

Luyira, ever playful, smiled brightly. “Mother, if you were a cat, you’d be a tiger.”

Alidia couldn’t help but smirk. “Thank you for the compliment, but in this context, that’s not what we’re referring to.”

Saint Mary stepped in, her tone serious yet encouraging. “This technique is about moving faster than the naked eye can perceive. The goal is to enhance attack speed by using this visualization. It will be interesting to see how Luyira handles it. I suspect she’ll surprise us.”

Luyira’s confidence radiated like that of a child eager to impress her mother and brother. She was always trying to show her strength, her actions revealing how deeply she cared for those she loved. Watching her, I couldn’t help but admire her beauty and her fierce spirit. There was something captivating about her, and I found myself wondering how we could grow even closer.

Saint Mary’s gaze settled on Luyira, a slight challenge in her eyes. “Would you like to go first, Luyira?”

Luyira beamed. “Of course!”

I gave her an encouraging nod. “Good luck.”

Luyira’s smile widened, a mix of determination and excitement. “Don’t worry, I’ll give it my all.”

As she prepared to take on the challenge, I reflected on the previous exercises. “This time, I’ll give it a try as well. It feels similar to what we’ve done before.”

Alidia’s voice rang out across the field, commanding the students' attention. “Is everyone listening?”

In perfect unison, the students responded, “YES, MADAM!”

Alidia stood before the group, her voice calm but commanding. “Excellent. The second exercise will focus on agility. This is the first time that everyone will be training in this method, so I encourage you to seek help from Sakura, Carlos, Luyira, and myself if you need it. Let’s begin. Luyira, come here.”

Luyira, brimming with energy, responded immediately. “Present!”

Without any warning, my mother—always unpredictable—grabbed Luyira by the leg, twirled her around like a whirlwind, and launched her into the air. The move was so sudden that the entire group froze, shocked and terrified by what had just happened.

Alidia’s calm voice broke through the tension. “No need to worry, she’ll be fine. Most likely, she’ll land safely... unless she decides otherwise.”

Even as my mother reassured us, I couldn’t help but feel a knot of concern tighten in my chest. Luyira’s body spun wildly in the air, but within seconds, she had already regained control, moving her arms and legs with precision. As she got closer to the ground, I could hear her scream—a mixture of exhilaration and nerves—before a massive dust cloud erupted from the impact of her landing.

“HEROINE LANDING!” Luyira shouted triumphantly, grinning ear to ear. “Praise me!”

She had grown so much, her strength and agility impressive. I couldn’t let myself fall behind.

Alidia, completely unfazed, nodded approvingly. “Good job. I knew you’d land just fine.”

Luyira laughed, still buzzing with energy. “Haha, I have no idea how I pulled it off!”

“LUY, ARE YOU OKAY?” I called out, still concerned.

Luyira flashed me a bright smile. “Never been better, hahaha.”

I frowned, still unsure. “Are you really fine?”

She gave a small, reassuring laugh. “I was just excited.”

Alidia, ever the steady presence, stepped in. “As Luyira said, she’s perfectly fine. She did a great job.”

Still buzzing from the landing, Luyira looked up at her mother. “What should I do to move more easily, Mommy?”

Alidia smiled softly. “Think of yourself as light—as light as a feather.”

Luyira nodded enthusiastically. “Yes!”

Saint Mary chimed in, her tone instructive. “As you reinforce your weapons, you can also reinforce your body and movements. For Retter Messiah, it’s easier because our instincts differ. But everyone can learn to do this.”

Saint Mary extended her wings slightly. “Anyone can see my wings, right?”

Prince Lasui’s voice rang out confidently. “Yes, Your Holiness!”

I noticed the prince’s eagerness, his eyes flickering toward Marceline as if hoping to impress her and everyone else around. I understood that pressure—the weight of expectation.

Saint Mary smiled knowingly. “Now, do you think I could fly with these wings?”

Luyira furrowed her brow, unsure. “No…?”

Saint Mary’s eyes twinkled. “But what if I tried? What if it isn’t impossible?”

Luyira giggled. “Ehehehe.”

With a subtle shift, Saint Mary’s wings began to grow. They expanded to an impressive size, much larger than before, while her tail feathers—usually hidden from view—fanned out, giving the appearance of another elegant dress. She looked absolutely radiant.

I couldn’t help but marvel. “What a beauty…”

Everyone around me murmured in agreement, captivated by the transformation.

Alidia, always quick to observe, added, “Now I understand why my children love you. You really are beautiful… and quite charming.”

Saint Mary gave a gracious nod. “Thank you. The reason my wings and tail feathers are usually hidden is that I often walk everywhere. I didn’t know I could fly until I tried to change my approach. Instead of relying on my small wings, I allowed my body to transform.”

Luyira’s eyes sparkled with curiosity. “Does that mean I could grow wings too?”

Saint Mary gave her a thoughtful look. “I’m not sure… but I won’t say it’s impossible.”

With that, she took off into the sky, her newly expanded wings carrying her effortlessly. We watched as she soared over the academy, her figure graceful and hard to miss against the sky. I was certain that even people outside the academy could see her. A few moments later, she descended gracefully back to us, her wings shrinking back to their usual size.

Saint Mary smiled gently. “The way to control flight is simple. It’s all a matter of will.”

I felt a surge of determination. “Then I’ll have to fly too.”

Destroyer interrupted, his voice calm and factual. “I’m afraid that’s not possible for you, Aido. The flight Saint Mary uses is due to her own biological structure. She has traits similar to a bird, just as Luyira has traits of a rabbit.”

Hearing this, Luyira suddenly started jumping. At first, her jumps were small and clumsy, but with each attempt, she jumped higher and higher. I overheard a few S-rank hunters whispering about how it had taken them months to achieve that level of agility.

But Luyira was different—a genius. And more than that, as a Retter Messiah, she had infinite energy. Her only limitation was mental fatigue, which meant she had a significant advantage over the rest of us. Watching her, I realized once again just how remarkable she was.

Saint Mary turned to me, her voice soft yet firm. "Aido, can you feel the nature? The earth beneath your feet?"

I nodded, slightly confused. "Yes, I can. Is that important?"

She smiled patiently. "As Destroyer mentioned earlier, to do something as seemingly simple as jumping high, we have to balance the forces. Jumping without knowing how to land can be dangerous. Alidia took that risk with Luyira because she knew that even if Luy fell, she wouldn’t be hurt. But you need to understand that balance."

I watched the others as they practiced. Some of the more talented students were already achieving results similar to Luyira—jumping high and landing silently, as if they weighed nothing. Meanwhile, I felt like I was about to explode from frustration, struggling to achieve the same grace.

Saint Mary’s voice cut through my thoughts, calm and instructional. "When we walk, we unconsciously use the force the earth gives us to lift our bodies. Jumping should be just as easy, but only if we maintain perfect balance."

After saying that, she leapt into the air, as if she were floating. She descended gracefully, landing without a sound, as if she weighed no more than a feather. Her movements were fluid, like a dance, and there was something undeniably beautiful about the way her light blue clothes flowed in the wind. Her wings, feathers, and hair all moved together in perfect harmony, even the small tail feathers now touching her waist. It was almost… sensual. I could see the others watching her too, men and women alike.

I couldn’t help but whisper to myself, “Wow, is she a goddess?”

Saint Mary smiled at me, hearing my quiet admiration. "No, but thank you for the compliment," she said softly. "You’re the god here."

I wasn’t used to compliments like that, even though I had been giving them earlier. It was strange, the weight of expectation that others placed on me, even when I wasn’t fully aware of it myself.

Alidia, ever composed, spoke next. "I think we’re ready. It’s just a matter of concentration, and the Retter Messiah have that ability."

Luyira, still brimming with confidence, grinned. "Yeah, but the rest of them will need a lot of practice if they want to do something like me."

She threw me a playful look, but I couldn’t help feeling the weight of the comparison. I may have powers, but they’re nothing compared to these women. Still, I’m lucky. Lucky that three beautiful women from another world love me just as much as I love them. That’s why I can’t fail them—or anyone else.

I cleared my throat, trying to focus. "So, the goal isn’t to fly, but to move fast and jump like a cat."

Luyira smirked. "If we could move at the same speed as Saint Mary, we’d win battles without breaking a sweat."

I nodded, but the real distraction wasn’t the battle techniques—it was the way Luyira and my mother looked at me, and the way I couldn’t help but look back. Today was different. Luyira’s stunning body attracted glances from nearly everyone, while Alidia, though people tried to look at her respectfully, drew attention for a different reason. Her petite frame with those massive breasts—how could I blame anyone for looking? If it were up to me, I’d spend all day doing... well, things with all of them.

Suddenly, Sakura broke the tension with a laugh. "If that happens, the world will end! Aido would go BAM! BOOM! CHAS! RUMPU RUN!" Her playful exaggeration made everyone laugh.

Alidia raised an eyebrow, her tone thoughtful. "I worry about that too. But as long as my family and the people of the world are safe, that’s all that matters."

Sakura and Luyira began to chase each other, their energy infectious. Luyira’s remarkable agility, far beyond what most could achieve, made it almost impossible for Sakura to catch up. They laughed like children, and their playfulness filled the air with a sense of ease. It was a scene that, instead of making people angry or jealous, seemed to calm everyone down. Smiles appeared on the faces of the other students as they watched the two.

Sakura giggled. "I’m going to catch you, Luyira!"

Luyira, grinning widely, replied, "Hehehe, this bunny’s always ahead of you!"

Sakura huffed, determined but laughing. "You’re fast!"

Luyira winked. "It’s in my very being!"

Sakura’s eyes twinkled. "So, you really are a bunny?"

Luyira laughed, hopping lightly on her feet. "Yeah!"

Sakura gasped in mock surprise. "Bunnies are my absolute favorite! Come closer, little one, and let me shower you with affection!"

The two continued to chase each other, laughing, as the rest of us watched. For a moment, the world seemed simpler—no battles, no training—just the joy of being together and enjoying the moment.

 

Most of the students had already discovered the ability to leap three times higher than before. As for me, I managed to double my own jump—not bad, all things considered. Those who had struggled in the beginning were still struggling, though their landings were more graceful than mine. But as fate would have it, my worst fear became a reality. A thunderous noise erupted from where I had been standing, catching everyone’s attention.

Luyira immediately called out, her voice tinged with worry. “Oh no! Aido, are you alright?”

She looked toward the spot where I’d been moments before, but by then, I was already ascending rapidly into the sky. I couldn’t stop my sudden rise, the air thinning as I soared higher. My chest tightened—I couldn’t breathe, couldn’t move.

Alidia’s voice pierced through the chaos. “AIDO!”

Saint Mary gasped. “Oh God!”

In a moment of panic, I asked the only one who could help. “Destroyer, are we going to be okay?”

Destroyer, ever calm, replied, “Even if we plummet like a stone, my friend.”

As I ascended closer to the clouds, a strange sensation enveloped me. Fear gripped my heart, but there was no stopping it now. Suddenly, strong arms wrapped around me. Luyira, in all her grace, had swooped in to catch me, holding me as though I were a princess. Gratitude flooded me, but so did a twinge of embarrassment.

“Thank you, Luy,” I murmured, trying to regain composure.

She smiled softly, her embrace warm. “You’re welcome, Aido.”

As we began to descend together, I gathered my courage. I knew I couldn’t rely on her forever. I gestured that I needed to land on my own, that if I wanted to stand by their side, I had to learn to do as they did. Luyira looked at me with understanding. Fear flickered in her eyes, but there was also silent support, telling me without words that I could do this.

“Aido,” she said gently, “I am here.”

“I know.”

Destroyer’s voice echoed in my mind, calm and steady. “Embrace the unity within us, trust in both yourself and me, for together, we are one.”

I did trust them. Luyira’s face was the only motivation I needed right now. My heart pounded in my chest, but it calmed in the warmth of her hold, in the comfort of her voice. She whispered words of encouragement, ones I knew I would carry with me forever.

“I want to fall like you,” I confessed, my voice shaky.

“All you need to do is let go,” Luyira replied.

“I’m scared,” I admitted, the fear still lingering.

“I know,” she said softly.

“But I must do this, right?” I asked, more to myself than to her.

In that moment, I became acutely aware of everything—the air within me, the environment surrounding us, the chaotic energy that surged inside. I could feel it, a force of destruction contained within my skin, bones, and flesh. But instead of hardening like a stone, it flowed through me, graceful, like a cat falling and dispersing energy upon landing.

As I descended, I let go. I felt the energy shift, and when I finally landed, it was soft—controlled. Time seemed to slow for a moment, the impact barely making a sound. When I lifted my head, I saw three faces smiling back at me.

Alidia was the first to speak, her eyes glowing with pride. “You did it, my lovely child.”

I could barely believe it myself. “Aaaaaaah, that was incredible.”

Destroyer’s voice rang in my mind, congratulatory. “Well done, sir.”

Saint Mary smiled, her approval clear. “You possess a unique gift, Aido. With continued practice, you’ll reach mastery, just like the rest of us.”

Luyira stood beside me, her eyes filled with warmth. “I’ll always support you, no matter what.”

Despite my initial fear, I felt a surge of accomplishment and joy. It wasn’t just about landing—it was about trusting in myself and those around me. I could feel the difference it made.

Alidia gave a nod of finality. “It’s time to conclude our session. Tomorrow, I’ll instruct you in a visualization exercise to prepare for the upcoming battle. Focus your attention—we’ll be repeating this routine every day until you can match my speed.”

After a thorough thirty-minute lesson, the class was finally adjourned. The students made their way back to their dormitories, some looking exhausted, others exhilarated. As for us, we headed toward the Crystal Palace, the sense of unity and growth still lingering in the air.

The women had left to attend to some personal matters, leaving me with a different task. I had been summoned by King Arthur to his office for a discussion. As I approached the door, I noticed two S-Rank Hunters, a man and a woman, standing guard, their expressions stoic and vigilant.

The male guard nodded as I approached. "Your Highness."

King Arthur’s voice called out from within. "Please, come in."

The guards stepped aside as I entered. Inside, King Arthur and Queen Jessica were seated, their attention focused on several documents spread across the large, polished desk. Both of them looked up as I approached.

Arthur gestured to a chair. "Please, take a seat."

Jessica’s expression was serious, her brow slightly furrowed. "We have received troubling reports regarding the current situation. It is a grave matter."

Arthur nodded, his face etched with concern. "Indeed. We’ve done our best, but we did not anticipate facing further adversaries so soon."

I sat down, sensing the gravity of their discussion. "Good evening, Your Excellencies."

The room felt heavy with tension as the King and Queen resumed their conversation, and I quickly realized that I was being brought into a much larger discussion about the state of the empire.

Jessica leaned forward slightly. "We’re discussing the escalating aggression of the enemy. The death toll is rising, and it’s clear that this needs a swift resolution. What concerns us is the enemy’s leader. Once they identify the Redeemer and the Saint, they will likely intensify their efforts, increasing the threat we face."

I raised an eyebrow, my mind racing with possibilities. "My apologies for the confusion, but I had assumed the beasts operated without a leader. Do you have any information on this?"

Jessica exchanged a look with Arthur before responding. "You’re correct that this is still speculative. From what we’ve observed in studies and reports, the beasts exhibit traits reminiscent of zombies or monsters—creatures driven by instinct. But their behavior suggests something more… organized. The timing of their attacks, their coordination, it feels too deliberate. We suspect there may be a leader among them, akin to a queen or king figure."

Arthur’s voice was more resolute, frustration simmering beneath the surface. "Our best course of action is to end this conflict quickly. It’s clear the enemy is planning something—perhaps a surprise attack—and we need to be ready. Unfortunately, we can’t avoid using the army to combat these monsters. But the rising casualties and the growing distress among the people are deeply troubling."

His tone shifted, darker. "While some regions have enjoyed years of relative peace, only facing occasional threats from demihumans, villages like yours are under siege by overwhelming numbers. The attacks have become more frequent, and there’s a troubling pattern I’ve noticed. When the population in certain areas reaches a critical number, the beast attacks become more frequent."

I frowned, trying to understand. "Do you mean they’re targeting people directly?"

Arthur’s gaze darkened as he nodded. "Yes. The beasts seem to be drawn to areas where populations are concentrated. It’s not random—it’s targeted."

Jessica leaned in, her voice full of concern. "It’s almost as though they’re trying to destroy our future. The attacks seem to focus on villages and towns where people over the age of forty are prominent. By targeting these older generations—the ones with the wisdom and experience needed to help our kingdom prosper—they're undermining our growth."

There was a pause as her eyes flickered with something deeper, something personal. "And yet, we’ve noticed a peculiar phenomenon. In places where resilient elders, like my father, reside, the attacks seem to dwindle. It’s as if the beasts are less aggressive in the presence of those who have lived through past horrors."

A chill ran down my spine as I processed what she was saying. It felt calculated—like the enemy wasn’t just mindlessly attacking but orchestrating a larger plan.

Jessica turned to me, her expression intense. "Aido, share with us what you know of the mutant beasts."

I paused for a moment, gathering my thoughts. "These beasts have evolved into monstrous creatures, wielding immense power and unmatched intelligence. They pose a severe threat to our kingdom, capable of coordinating large-scale attacks."

It was a textbook answer, one that I had learned at the academy. But something gnawed at me—the feeling that King Arthur and Queen Jessica knew more than they were sharing. Perhaps they had information that wasn’t available to the public, something darker.

Arthur shifted in his seat. "If we were to classify them, the most common are the canine-type beasts. They hunt in packs, their bodies often fused with firearms. These are particularly dangerous, not only to hunters but to civilians as well. Villages with few hunters have suffered catastrophic losses because of them."

I nodded, remembering the stories of villages being overrun by these monstrosities. "And these beasts… they’re different from the ones we’ve fought before?"

Arthur’s jaw tightened. "Yes. These creatures are more organized, more deliberate. It’s not just survival—it’s conquest. They’re no longer mindless monsters. They have a strategy."

Jessica leaned back, her eyes filled with concern. "We need to be ready. Whatever their leader is planning, we must prepare ourselves. If we don’t, the kingdom could fall."

There was a brief, heavy silence in the room. I could feel the weight of their words settling over me. This wasn’t just about fighting monsters anymore. It was about survival—survival of the kingdom, of the people, and perhaps, of humanity itself.

Jessica’s voice was heavy with concern as she began. "The world’s population has dwindled significantly over the years, making it increasingly difficult to defend against these beasts."

Arthur sighed, his expression grim. "Then there are the rare mutants, beasts that take terrifying forms—bears, lizard men, or stone giants, standing anywhere from 3 to 8 meters tall. They’re usually accompanied by smaller creatures, which only adds to their lethality. We can call them rank 2, or tier 2"

Jessica nodded, continuing. "But the most feared are the Titanic Beasts. Towering in size and unmatched in ferocity, they lead vast armies of mutant creatures, making them the ultimate threat. Thankfully, they’ve always emerged from the north, where the protective wall serves as both our first and last line of defense. Even we can call them rank 3 it is obvious their size is the best way to know their power."

I frowned, thinking of the wall. "The wall is often said to be more symbolic than effective in reality."

Arthur gave a wry smile. "True. Despite its towering height of 50 meters, all beasts can scale it with relative ease. But the wall houses our most critical defense—the cannons designed to combat the Titanic Beasts, which can deal significant damage."

Curiosity gnawed at me. "Why haven’t we used those cannons against the smaller mutants?"

Jessica sighed, her eyes shadowed with the weight of reality. "Building and maintaining such powerful weapons requires immense resources—gold, magic, knowledge, and time. It’s a monumental task."

Arthur shifted in his seat, his brow furrowing slightly as he turned the conversation toward the empire's economy. "Our empire functions on a unique economic system. We have a currency, of course, but unlike in older times, it neither devalues nor inflates. It remains fixed at a stable value."

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "So if the currency remains the same, what about the value of resources?"

Jessica stepped in, her voice steady and measured. "The value of resources does fluctuate. And, in this system, meritocracy plays a significant role. Those who contribute the most to the protection of the people—warriors, hunters, and those who battle the mutant beasts—are considered to have more merit. Unfortunately, this means that in the current climate, individuals with power to defend others hold more value than, say, a teacher or even a doctor."

"That’s why many nobles focus on becoming warriors?" I asked, the pieces falling into place.

Arthur nodded. "Exactly. But even though noble families concentrate on strength and battle prowess, many also pursue other professions—whether it be in research, teaching, or medicine. It's not a rigid caste system, but the focus has shifted."

Jessica continued, "The majority of resources, especially high-value ones, are reserved for the nobility, giving them preference. However, our civilians don’t face hunger. The fertile zones in the empire are capable of producing food at a scale far beyond our current population—nearly a thousand times what we need."

"That’s an incredible number," I remarked.

Jessica nodded, her expression calm. "Because of this abundance, food is a guaranteed provision for all citizens. It's a law. Farmers are well-compensated for their contributions, ensuring they live a comfortable life. Water, too, is abundant, and we’ve had no major issues supplying it to every region."

"Energy, on the other hand, is a different story," Arthur added. "Many villages still lack electrical generators. It’s more than just a lack of resources—avoiding electricity in certain regions helps prevent detection by the mutant beasts."

I absorbed this information, seeing how the empire had developed a balance between protection, survival, and prosperity. Even though energy was scarce in some areas, it wasn’t crippling. And while certain privileges were reserved for the nobility, life within the empire seemed relatively stable for most.

"Life in the empire sounds... comfortable," I said thoughtfully.

Arthur leaned back, his face serious but proud. "It is. We manage our diseases carefully, and thanks to Mary, simply reaching the capital means you stand a good chance of being cured of almost anything."

"But what about serious injuries?" I asked, my mind thinking of the many dangers people faced beyond disease.

Jessica’s expression grew somber. "Serious injuries are another matter. Despite our medical advancements, the mortality rate for grievous wounds remains high. It’s a challenge we’re still trying to overcome."

Arthur’s face softened, his tone shifting as he spoke of a more personal matter. "The tide turned with the arrival of the warrior, and even more so with your mother. Their unique ability to draw the focus of the beasts through that piercing, provoking scream has dramatically reduced casualties when we face Titanic Beasts in battle. It’s given the hunters an advantage, allowing them to fight with far less risk."

I couldn’t help but wonder. "What’s the vulnerability of this technique?"

Jessica exchanged a glance with Arthur before answering. "The creatures will eventually stop responding if the scream is overused. Based on our observations, it needs to be repeated every five minutes to maintain control. Otherwise, the beasts will ignore them—except for those already engaged in combat."

I considered the implications. "A five-minute interval leaves too much room for error."

Arthur’s voice was firm but understanding. "Indeed, but it was far worse before. These brief moments of respite have made a significant difference. However, despite the number of creatures we’ve managed to eliminate, we can’t use them as resources."

I raised an eyebrow, curious. "Is that because they’re toxic?"

Arthur shook his head. "Not exactly. They aren’t inherently toxic, but consuming them isn’t advisable. What makes them unusable is their decomposition mechanism. When one of these creatures dies, it decomposes rapidly, ideally nourishing the earth. But instead, the gases they release ascend into the sky, where they’re somehow collected and used to create more creatures."

A realization struck me. "That explains the continuous regeneration of these beasts."

Arthur nodded. "Yes. In recent years, we’ve been experimenting with machines to harness these gases. Once processed, they resemble life-sustaining materials—nitrogen, minerals, vitamins—everything necessary for life. The creatures themselves aren’t androids, nor can they be classified as cyborgs. They’re... something else entirely. Currently, we use these materials as fertilizer for a large portion of the capital’s fields."

The conversation shifted, and Arthur’s expression grew more serious. "This brings me to another point. Do you understand why we’ve dispersed the population instead of centralizing it for easier access to hunters and protection?"

I thought for a moment before answering. "To safeguard the fields. A single creature could devastate a village within minutes, and the loss of crops could set back months of work."

Arthur’s gaze darkened. "That’s a part of it, yes. But the truth is more ominous. If we concentrated our population in one area, it would result in the gradual decimation of farmland, livestock, and wildlife—just by our presence alone. It’s as though the very act of living too closely together causes the land to wither. It mirrors the consequences of the Redeemer’s Judgment, punishing humanity for its selfishness."

A cold shiver ran down my spine as I processed his words. "How can we be certain these creatures aren’t the work of the Redeemer?"

Jessica’s expression softened, and her voice took on a more reflective tone. "In the ancient texts of kings, it’s revealed that after the Judgment, the Redeemer commanded humanity to repopulate the earth, to lead decent lives, and to reconnect with one another. There are even legends suggesting the existence of celestial beings—beings who may one day visit our world. The emergence of these beasts dates back millennia, long after the Judgment. They started as mere creatures—handfuls of them scattered across the land. But over time, they evolved into the monstrous threat we face today."

She paused, her voice tinged with regret. "At our peak, the global population reached 450 million souls. We were prosperous, thriving. But now... now our numbers are only a fraction of what they once were."

I couldn’t hide my disbelief. "That’s another apocalypse... beyond the Celestial Judgment!"

Arthur’s voice grew solemn as he nodded in agreement. "Yes. Humanity has faced many trials, Aido. The Judgment was just the beginning. Now, we face the aftermath—an apocalypse of our own making. If we’re not careful, history will repeat itself, and this time, we may not survive."

Arthur leaned back slightly, continuing his earlier thought. "Expanding on what I mentioned before, the Kings sanctioned the formation of factions vying for fertile lands as part of a broader defense strategy. By dispersing ourselves, we prevent the beasts from focusing their assaults on a single location—particularly the colossal creatures that seem to have a clear directive for their prey."

Jessica nodded, her voice carrying a weight of harsh reality. "As cruel as it may seem, the Kings decreed that our survival depended on spreading out, even if that meant sacrificing settlements and cities. The idea was to diffuse the threat rather than concentrate it in one place."

I considered their words carefully. "There’s no need for remorse; the common folk are aware of this dynamic. Though we live with the constant fear of beast incursions, people still find joy in life. I’ve yet to meet a citizen who doesn’t appreciate the government’s efforts to protect them. They understand the necessity of these measures."

Arthur gave a nod of approval. "The majority of our civil servants are devoted to their people’s wellbeing. Most of them serve with honor, but as always, there are regrettable exceptions. Recently, we uncovered a demihuman sex trade near the African capital in South Africa—a shameful and disgraceful act that has shaken us all."

My stomach churned at the mention of such a horrific crime. "Are we talking about demi humans?"

Jessica looked pained as she spoke. "Yes. Demi humans often face discrimination, though there have been improvements in recent years. Africa and Oceania, in particular, have seen fewer attacks from the beasts, possibly because there are fewer technological ruins in Africa and less fertile land in Oceania."

I nodded, recalling similar reports. "I’ve heard about this issue."

Arthur’s face darkened. "Demi humans in those regions are slowly being accepted, and many live openly. But there’s a disturbing trend of individuals trying to force romantic or exploitative interests on them, disregarding both teachings and consent."

I frowned, thinking about the implications. "It’s essential to avoid coercing relationships. Forcing that kind of pressure not only harms the individuals but creates problems for future generations."

Jessica sighed, her voice heavy with frustration. "Despite this, some people develop inappropriate desires for demi humans. This has led to their enslavement and exploitation by unscrupulous nobles. It's resulted in a distressing and pervasive market for these individuals."

Arthur’s jaw tightened as he spoke, his tone resolute. "We’re doing everything in our power to track down and punish those responsible. Members of my own family are currently in Africa and Spain, actively hunting down the culprits. Exposing this corruption within the nobility is critical to preserving the fabric of society. The only challenge is the vast distances—we haven’t heard much from them in years, except through scattered reports."

 

 

At that moment, a soft knock on the door interrupted the heavy conversation.

Arthur’s expression softened slightly as he called out, "Please, come in."

Alidia entered the room, looking slightly embarrassed but composed. The King and Queen turned their attention to her, welcoming her to speak.

"I’ve arranged everything," Alidia said with a small smile, "and I’ve come to collect my sapling."

Arthur chuckled, his earlier tension melting away for a moment. "Apologies for the delay. Let’s proceed with lunch, and then we’ll move on to our evening agenda."

We adjourned to the dining room for dinner, where a lighter atmosphere seemed to take over. The room was filled with laughter and conversation, everyone in high spirits. Yet, beneath that surface, there was a sense of anticipation—a busyness that hinted at the serious matters still waiting to be addressed.

Even though only a few days had passed since I joined this group, familiar dynamics had already formed. Javier sat across from me, his gaze flickering to Sasari, clearly concerned about her playful, almost childish behavior. Marceline was at ease, smiling as she listened to Lasui’s cheerful demeanor, his laughter contagious.

King Arthur was deeply engrossed in conversation with Queen Jessica and my mother, Alidia, while I found myself surrounded by the watchful eyes of Luyira and Saint Mary. The two of them seemed to compete for my attention, their competitive streak evident in the way they subtly tried to outshine each other in small gestures of care. And yet, despite this playful rivalry, both Luyira and Mary had moments of mischievous behavior. They could act like children themselves when they were with me, laughing and teasing, their seriousness melting away in my presence.

I caught Luy’s eye, and she winked at me, a playful smile tugging at her lips. Mary, noticing, huffed and leaned in closer, pretending to need my attention for something trivial, which only made me smile. It was as if we had all found a strange balance between duty and affection, between responsibility and the simple joy of being together.

Though the world outside our small circle was fraught with danger, for now, in this moment, it felt like we could still share moments of warmth, of laughter, and of love. I didn’t know what challenges lay ahead, but I knew that with these people by my side, I wouldn’t face them alone.