Two weeks passed in a blink of an eye.

There hasn’t been much to do except for attending conferences whenever Shiba asked. I suspected he used my presence to gain authority over nobles who secretly opposed his reformation plans. Other than that, Lily visited regularly and made me play games after her studies.

She was curious about my birthplace. To calm her down, I told stories about what kind of place the village was, what monster lurked there and the mysterious tower. I didn’t mention anything about myself.

“Hey, wait! Wait! Don’t move me, I’m in the middle of-.”

Crash! Down goes the blocks. What was left on the table was a half-completed tower stacked perpendicularly to another. The children of Xu would often play similar strategic games and recently, it caught Lily’s attention when she discovered some guards had played this during their break.

Knowing this, she pestered us to grab a set for her. Martha and I went undercover outside the Palace and found a craftsman willing to sell a set to us.

“Martha, why?”

“Yeah! Why are you ruining our game?” Lily pouted.

“Sorry Priestess, but it’s time for bed. Tomorrow Kihet will be leaving for Rozzosea. It is my duty to have him prepared before his departure.”

“You’re leaving?”

Please don’t make that kind of face. You’re making me feel guilty even though it wasn’t my decision.

“It’s only for five days. I’ll be back before you know it.”

“No! I don’t want Kihet to leave. Stay here with me!”

She jumped out of her chair and put her arms around me before I could say anything.

“Priestess, I know you like Kihet but-.”

“No! Kihet, stay!”

“I’m not a pet…”

“No! No no no no! I want to be with Kihet!”

“Lily, that’s no way to become a proper Priestess when you grow up.”

“If Kihet’s not here, I don’t want to be a Priestess!”

“You don’t want to be a Priestess? What did you want to be then?”

“I like Kihet! I-I want to be his wife!”

“Oh my…”

“Rejected!”

My answer was instantaneous. I’m glad Lily liked me, but I already promised Sorah. In other case, Lily might only be saying that because I’m her only friend in this palace.

Lily’s part of the royal family so she’s certainly going to find a partner. Or maybe not. I almost forgot her dotting brother. Shiba’s overly protective and as the ruler, he’s likely going to use his position to threaten any guys that try to make a move on her.

Plus, if he heard about this, he’d probably execute me!

“Why?!” Lily now throwing a tantrum, hit my chest repeatedly with her fists. “Is it because I’m not like Martha? I’m going to grow up and become a beautiful lady!”

The reason why I’m heartless on this matter was because I didn’t want to get her hopes up. I don’t want to get called a lolicon if my friends knew.

“You didn’t even ask for my consent. In the first place, I promised someone else.”

“Y-you did?” Martha’s voice was somewhat distraught. “That doesn’t mean you should let Priestess down like that.”

“Children will take promises seriously. I need to let them know before it becomes a problem. There was someone like Lily back in my village and she holds those promises to heart. Fifty years wasn’t enough to stop her from confiscating all the sweets I try to eat behind her back.”

“And when were you allowed?”

“A century later.” Memories flashed before me of all the time Hannah prevented me from eating any kind of sweets during the prohibition period.

“Seeing the Priestess like this, she might do that.” Martha sighed as she began scooping the wooden blocks off the table.

“Wait. You interrupted the last game. Let me play one more round. I was so close to winning my first game.”

“You can’t. You didn’t try to consider packing your belongings, let alone telling me this on the last few days. Luckily for you, I was notified and have your luggage ready. I will not be able to accompany you to Rozzosea so I must inform you where everything is.”

“Yes, mother.”

“M-mother!?” Martha gasped. “I had enough, stop teasing me whenever you want!”

And why wasn’t Martha allowed to come? I realized two things.

Lily would have no other person she could depend on if Shiba, Martha and I left for Rozzosea. As for Miyabe, she was pregnant with Shiba’s child. If anything, Martha was one of the most suited and trusted servants to oversee Lily and Miyabe’s safety if anything happened.

Also, there’s a chance more assassins roamed outside the palace even though Eizan said the last ones were killed in the capital. I couldn’t bring myself to trust his words.

By chance if I was overrun by attackers, I wouldn’t be able to defend her seeing how I almost had died to an ambush when we arrived. Ever since the late King and Queen were killed, security into the palace was enforced a billion times stricter, making it more ideal to keep Martha here.

That reminds me. Why was Lily so quiet?

“Lily?”

I looked down to see her sitting on my lap with her head nodding. She leaned on my arm and her head on my shoulder. Her tiny hands grabbed my clothes tightly.

She must be exhausted after her tantrum.

“Priestess has really taken a liking to you. Even I’m jealous.”

“That so?”

“She once had friends, but the duty of being a priestess forbid her make making contact with anyone of a lower status than nobles. When the king noticed, he had them exiled. Since then, she was never really attached to anyone. She was probably scared to lose more friends again.”

“Wow… I umm. I don’t know what to say.”

“But I’m glad she has you as a friend now. Anyways, I’ll carry her to bed. Priestess, you cannot bother Kihet like that. C’mon, I’ll carry you.”

“En… good night, Kihet.”

“Yeah, good night.”

Martha scooped Lily out of my hands and cradled her to the bed. From the child’s exhausted face, she opened her mouth for a big contagious yawn. Another servant tucked Lily in her bed and bowed to us as we left.

On our way back, a gust of wind brushed past us, swooping petals off the ground and towards the sky. My eyes trailed where the pink leaves went then found a batch of floating lanterns above the residential area of the Capital.

“Those are used to guide the dead.” Martha stood beside me holding her hands together in a praying gesture. “We illuminate the sky, believing the lanterns can lead them to a peaceful life towards the beyond.”

Just like my village. Instead of making them fly, we make them sail across waters.

I was suddenly reminded of the time when Sorah’s parents were given their burial. I stood at the farthest distance, watching Hannah and Sorah gently placing two floaters, each with their candle, representing the souls of their parents and sent them off.

“How do they float?”

“By heat.”

“Heat?”

“A long time ago, someone discovered it by accident by watching paper being pushed around in the air above fire. Apparently hot air can carry paper lanterns to the skies.”

“That amazing. I wouldn’t have thought of that. Wouldn’t the tree risk on catching fire?”

“Lanterns can’t float that high. Look, that’s as high as it can lift it.”

“That’s cool.”

-I want to try making one in the future.-

“Hey, do you think I could ask for that?” Martha suddenly asked.

That?

“What do you mean?”

“Well… you were busy accompanying Priestess this week. I didn’t get a chance to ask about our promise.”

She twiddled her fingers nervously. Her cheeks were pinkish red and stared at me with uncertainty.

What the heck did I promise her? Don’t tell me I cheated on Sorah without knowing?! Aw, crap. What did I do? What did I do?!

“Are you against it?”

“N-no! I mean, I’m flattered. Martha, well… it’s not you. It’s me. I might’ve misled you to thinking about that. Look, I’m sorry, but I can’t.”

“I see. I can’t touch your ears.”

Huh? My ears?

The thumping in my heart calmed down as I grabbed Martha’s shoulder. She was surprised, but she waited for me to calm my breath and explain myself.

“You were talking about my ears?”

“Yes.”

“Nothing else?”

“Have you made other promises with me?”

Martha, don’t scare me like that. That was one huge misunderstanding. Dammit, Megith. Even though she wasn’t the one who caused it, I blamed her for the fact she roped me into misunderstanding a lot of situations.

“Kihet, you’re acting weird. Are you okay?”

“I’m fine. I was thinking about something else. You wanted to touch my ears, right?”

Her face instantly lit up.

“You changed your mind?”

I brushed aside my scruffy hair and leaned an ear to her. I felt a cold touch, then a comfortable scratching. I can hear Martha’s satisfied whispers each time her fingers brushed the feathers of my ears.

“It’s superbly soft. What do you use to keep it like this?”

“To be honest, we Enuis don’t need to care for it much. It just as it is. Are you listening?”

“Another minute, I can’t get enough of this.”

She’s not going to listen with that kind of expression. At least she’s happy.

“Whee, hehe! It’s so fluffy-!”

“Ouch!”

“Sorry! Are you alright?”

“I’m not used to being touched on the ear for so long. Your fingers are cold.” I gently brushed my feathered ear back under my scruffy hair. “Anyways, I think I should check my things.”

“Rest assured. I believe I did an excellent job!”

After checking the luggage, palace servants brought it to the carriage. I’m impressed. Martha thought of everything I needed. I wasn’t entirely wrong when I called her my mother.

When I looked outside, I was surprised how bright it was outside.

Even though the moon was blocked by the sacred tree, the leaves dispersed moonlight and casted patterns of the window’s carving onto the floor.

Martha and I sat on opposite sides of the table. As she sorted the documents for me to read during the ride, I took out my journal. I’ve spent a month n this country and experienced many interesting things. Inside my book were reminders, a diary and inspirations for blueprints.

But looking back, there were the words ‘Eizan’s motives’.

When I met him the first time, a chill ran down my spine. He’s well mannered but suspicious. I followed him once as I was curious where he’d always go, but somehow disappeared. During the time he visited Lily, I sensed his voice somewhat apathic and cold as he asked about Lily’s health.

Come to think of it, these last couple of days I haven’t seen Eizan.

“Kihet? What’s wrong? You’re blanking out. You should get some rest for tomorrow’s departure.”

“I’m worried about you and Lily.”

“M-me?”

“And Lily.” I added. “I’m a bit restless to leave you two after that incident. I’m not sure if all the assassins were really dealt with so I’m worried.”

“The palace has guards.”

“I know. I’ve sparred with some of them and they’re well trained. It’s my guts that’s telling me something’s bad might happen.”

There are also unknown kidnappings. So far, I haven’t heard reports of any incidents in the Palace, but I witnessed several people begging to anyone to bring back their loved ones and saw lots of missing posters. Poor them. I can’t expect them to be alive after being missing for who knows how long.

Shiba told me it was the work of pixies, but I haven’t seen any. If magic was used near me, my ears should be able to sense it.

-Alright. I’ve decided.-

“Just in case, let me give you something. Give me your hand and close your eyes.”

“That sounds suspicious.”

“I swear I won’t do anything bad to you.”

“That’s a shame.”

“What?”

“Nothing. I was talking to myself.” Martha pouted.

After she closed her eyes, I reached into my bag for a clunky ornament.

It was made of bronze decorated by engraved runic carvings that summoned a barrier to protect the wearer and the area around them.

There’s a little backstory of this trinket. Elius gave it to me because he pitied my nonexistent ability to cast magic. I remember the smug look on his face when he triumphed as the victor in our little bet. I hid my tears from Martha while silently cursing Elius. I was his goofier for ten years after I lost.

“You’re giving this to me? I’m sorry but I cannot accept this valuable.”

“Valuable?”

“This is an enchanted item, yes? Such an item couldn’t be found commonly even in ancient ruins.”

Ancient ruins? Could she be referring to dungeon like labyrinths? So those exists. I’d like to go dungeon diving when I get a chance.

“Martha, this is an enchanted item, but a friend made it.”

“This is a creation from your village? The Enuis know the lost arts to enchant items?”

“The one who made this is in Easul. He’s a major bookworm, always putting his nose into books.”

“Wow, but this… I can’t accept it.”

“Consider it a loan, but if you change your mind later, you can keep it. It’s called ‘Guardsmen Ward’ something that’ll summon a strong barrier around you when you need one. I need you to wear this because I don’t want anything bad to happen to you.”

“It sounds like you’re proposing to me.”

“E-eh? I uh… It’s not like that!”

“I’m kidding.” She chuckled. “I know you already have someone, but for all you’ve done, I really can’t accept this-. Huh? I can’t get it off.”

Martha made cute little grunting noise as she struggled with the best of her ability to untie the knot.

“Too bad. I’ve used a special knot a friend taught me. Even I don’t know how to untie it.”

“You’re joking right!? Nhhhgggg! This knot is impossible!”

“The band is made with cut resistant materials, don’t think about cutting it.”

“I don’t-. I said, I don’t-nggghhhhh. Fine, I’ll keep it for now.” She panted exhaustingly with a Thanks.

We kept to ourselves for a while until I remembered something from meeting with Shiba a week ago.

“Martha, you escaped the assassins with Lily using a fairy stone, right?”

“Yes, though I believe I did not tell you about that.”

“The Prince mentioned it to me. Why didn’t you find soldiers to escort you back to the palace?”

“I did, but we were ambushed on the way back. I did eventually have more soldiers to guide me back, but they were turned like the ones that attacked us at the checkpoint. I got careless and lost one of Priestess’ and my horn.”

“Do they grow back?”

She shook her head.

“Unlike Ogres, Devil folks whose horns are broken will have their horns broken forever. Without it, gaining trust in Xu is pretty much impossible and pretty much given strange stares.”

I can relate to that whenever I wear my cuffs inside the village.

“You look fine as you are.”

“Are you sure? We Devil folk pride our horns as part of our appearance. To others, I might as well be ugly-.”

“Don’t say that. Just because someone else thinks that doesn’t mean it’s true to everyone else. I don’t find anything ugly about you. You’re pretty.”

“E-eh?! K,Kihet, that’s too sudden… you’re not fair.”

I want to tease her a bit more, but it’s best to stop before I get carried away.

“Thank you, Kihet. For everything. You’ll always be a hero to me.”

A hero? I do appreciate the praise, but I did not feel like the Hero she thought I was. I mean, when I first found them, I ignored them like everyone else for the sake of the mission Elder gave me. A real hero wouldn’t have hesitated to help someone.

“Martha. Do you sometimes feel powerless or weak? Like everyone around is superior in some way?” I asked.

“Of course I do. During my absence, I’ve been powerlessly asking people for help. I can’t do anything; I couldn’t do anything. I couldn’t give the Priestess what she needed, what comfortable lifestyle she could have. In the end, I’m glad you saved us, but I kept relying on more people.”

“Same as me.”

“Really? I always thought you were always strong.”

“I may act the part, but I’m actually far from standard of everyone back at the village. I was shunned for something I did and exiled from the village.”

“You were, exiled?”

“I guess you couldn’t really call it being exiled. I was still confined within the forest and can only make visits with specific requirements.”

“How does that make you weak?”

“The forest had a lot of dangerous beasts, more dangerous than creatures out here. I had no where else to go but to live in the forest. I had to rely on my friends to grow. They’d find excuses to teach me just to hang out. It’s weird isn’t it? I try to be independent, but I can’t stop depending on people.”

“Isn’t that normal? Nobody can live just by themselves.”

This is bad. I can feel my heart tickle for a bit when I look at her. Her legs playfully kick the air as she admirably looks at me. She held this sweet seducing smile, tempting my hand to reach for her head.

“Erm… it’s late, I should really get to bed, or I won’t wake up.”

I rigidly turned to my bed and fell face flat under the covers. Her smile was dangerous. I can hear my heart beating fast.

“Kihet.”

“Y-Yeah?”

“Thanks for saving me.”

“You’re welcome, I think. G-good night.”

“Mmh. Good night, Kihet.”

And thus, my day to travel to Rozzosea came.

Morning arrived as Kihet found a note beside his breakfast. As he read the contents, he formed a smile at the letter.

Kihet,

I’m off to wake Lily and we will meet you by the gate. I wish you luck in Rozzosea. Also, the Prince suggested you wear your armor.

P.s. Thank you for the bracelet, I will treasure it!

-Martha.

He wasn’t sure why, but the Prince insisted him to wear armor. You would think some nice clothing would suffice. He remembered he was told the Giants are a species that loved to fight, and their king would choose to wear armor over the royal robes. It may be to respect the giant’s culture.

After his morning routine, Kihet made his way to the palace gates.

“Morning Kihet. I hoped you’ve steeled yourself.”

The Prince revealed his dazzling warring armor under daylight almost blinding Kihet. His apparel seemingly made from the finest beast’s pelt hiding the black and gold scaled tasset. The crown was kept to visually show his status as king. A special custom sword glittered decorated by twin golden dragons spiralling around the hilt. Kihet was somewhat envious of his decorated ornamental weapon.

“Morning Shiba, Miyabe. Shiba, you look… shiny?”

“Gold is my country’s national color. I must wear it with pride.” The Prince sang. His long ears twitched as he heard cute little Pita Pata footsteps approaching.

“We made it!” Lily declared.

“Priestess, be careful you don’t bump into anyone.” Martha warned in the background.

Lily trotted over to her brother’s side and stuffed something in his hand. It looked a flower pressed onto a slip of paper being covered in a glass piece.

“I made this for you, brother. You read all the time, and your old one is breaking.”

“Is that so? As thanks, I will immediately put it to good use.” He pulled a book from his belt to replace the worn bookmark he was currently using. “This is terrific, Tomoe. I am fortunate to have a sister this caring.”

“Hehe! And for Kihet, I don’t know what you like so folded a crane for you.”

“A crane? What is this?”

“Oh! I haven’t done origami in a long time. Perhaps I will ask Tomoe to teach me once I find the time.” Miyabe nodded. “Tomoe, will you?”

“Of course, Big Sis!”

“Out of paper? How in the world do you do that?” Kihet twisted and turn the paper bird in his hand trying to make sense of how it was possible.

-No seriously, it’s made out of one-piece paper and it’s quite detailed. How is this possible? Even kids know something I don’t.-

“Kihet, I know you’re curious on how things work. Don’t rip it. The Priestess put a lot of effort into that crane.” Martha warned.

“I won’t!” Kihet gave a sly smile to hide his intention. Now that he promised, he was not allowed to unfold it. “Thanks Lily. I might get you to teach me origami when I return.”

“It’s a promise!” The child smile happily.

“Let’s go. We wouldn’t want to be off schedule.” Shibata waved. “My dear sister, stay safe and take care of Miya for me, alright?”

“I’ll take care of big sis!”

“I’m counting on you. Sayuri, you as well. If anything strange happens in the Palace you have the authority to recall General Toudo to the capital. Do whatever it takes to protect my beloved and my dear sister.”

“Understood. Please take care, Prince. Stay safe, Kihet.”

“I will, you too.”

“Bai bai brother! Bai bai, Kihet!” Lily cried.

Shiba and Kihet made their way to the royal carriage, a large boat shaped vehicle supported by four wheels on the side and it was being pulled by a Wyvern. Its appearance was weird because of its similarity of a chicken’s head and was large and scaly.

Citizens were cheering as they made their appearance through the main street. Girls would call the Prince with their best to be noticed and be given a sparkling smile. They fainted dramatically with satisfied moans.

“Quite the parade.”

Kihet peeked out the window and let out an awkward laugh. He had now realized why he wasn’t allowed out of the palace without disguise for his protection. People would be crazy and swarm him.

“I am their beloved Prince.” Shiba thrusted his armored chest with pride. “They should be happy to greet me whenever the opportunity arises.”

“Right… is the palace going to be safe without you?”

“I had my closest servants searched every inch of the castle but couldn’t find those Pixies. If the Fairy Queen is plotting something, I have spies already surveying them. You have a friend in Sanctuary?”

“Yes, her name is Sorah. She’s... my to be wedded.”

“Oh?” Shiba whistled. “She must be quite the lady.”

“Haha… yeah…” Kihet could only bring memories where Sorah would bash him. “Could you contact her?”

“I don’t want them to be exposed. I want to know what the queen’s motives are without raising any tension between countries. She will keep a close eye on your friend. Rest assured, none of the seven races are that idiotic to harm the Enuis.”

“I’m just restless.”

“We all are.”

"Your highness, we are ready to take flight.” One soldier knocked on the wall.

“Ready!” The Prince knocked back at the wall behind him then crossed his arms imposingly. “Kihet, brace yourself to experience the privilege to ride the royal carriage. Get comfortable and don’t move.”

“Okay-, what’s that?”

Artificial wings spanned twice as wide as the width of the carriage. Minutes after, Kihet abruptly felt an invisible force pulling him back into the seat. The carriage shook violently then all motion ceased. Kihet gazed out the slits to find the sacred tree gradually shrinking. He thought it was some illusion that was displayed on the glass panel then he realized-.

“W-we’re flying!?”

“Indeed! Travelling by ground would be treacherously slow. By air, we arrive to Rozzosea in less than a day! Does your village not possess aerial creatures?”

“I rode on some bird’s back. They don’t fly as high and not inside something like this. How does it work? Teach me!”

“Really, you are a fanatic when it there is knowledge you do not possess. Very well, to pass the time I shall enlighten you.”

Kihet continued asking about the vehicle he rode as they enter the plains. It looked normal… the grass, the animals and the monsters. It doesn’t feel like they were in a giant’s territory.

“What is this…? I thought everything would be humongous!”

“Why would that be?”

“They’re giants! The things in the area should be huge!” Kihet exclaimed in great disappointment.

“That’s outrageous, if everything is as you expected, how do you think the other races survived?” Shibata then pointed his finger to the ceiling. “They can enlarge themselves to their battle form. I believe it’s called [War’s Blood]. It gives them incredible strength, defense and endurance.”

“That makes them sound unstoppable.”

“They have their drawbacks, however. They will be unable to revert to their original size until a few weeks later and I’ve heard rumors lightning magic can temporarily stop them. Unfortunately, it has been debunked as there have been instances where their titan forms were hit with lightning, and they shrugged it off.”

Kihet scratched his chin having to remembering his first encounter with Kridas.

“My friend, a spellcaster, managed to paralyze one. He used water magic to amplify the lightning’s effectiveness if I recall.”

“Water amplifies lightning’s effects?”

“There were creatures back at my village that had hides and fur that can somewhat insulate electric attacks. It’s a magic combo he favors to bypass it.”

“I see. With water seeping through dense fur and onto their skin, lightning can course through the protective layer without interference. I would’ve never known if you hadn’t brought that up.”

“Still, how tall will they be when they revert to normal size?”

“They are still tall. Even the tallest Devil is one foot eight shorter, including the horns. Speaking of which, we’ve began descending.” Something in the distance piqued Shiba’s interest and shifted to the window. “Look out the window, that’s Rozzosea’s capital.”

A gigantic wall like structure stood tall at the edge of the land. The stone fortress pierced the clouds and endured the powerful winds blowing against it. There were many cracks and dents but none of them weakened the sturdy walls surrounding Rozzosea’s kingdom. The walls surrounding it were as tall as mountains, a smaller gate was built at the center for people their size to enter.

They’ve travelled for half the day. Compared to Kihet’s long trip, this one travelled without being interrupted by land creatures.

“Oh yeah, where is Eizan? I haven’t seen him for days.”

“I sent him early for preparations. He will greet us with your friends. Is something wrong?”

“How trustworthy is he?”

“He’s my closest aid. He was basically my only childhood friend I could trust.”

“I don’t trust him. Even Lily doesn’t trust him. I saw this face whenever he met with Lily.”

“What do you mean?”

“I believe there is a possibility he had something to do with the assassins attacking. I sometimes wonder where he hides in his free time. Whenever I turn from a corner he vanished.”

“Preposterous!” The Prince shouted. “He is helping me with my reformations, there’s no need to plot against me. I know him very well. He may be crafty, but he must have his own reasons. His efforts were what allowed me to maintain my position.”

“But-!”

“Kihet, tread lightly.” Shibata warned. His emerald eyes glared daggers at Kihet. “I know we have talked about your naivety but that doesn’t mean you could push your thoughts onto me. If you possess evidence, I will allow you to press further. Otherwise, I will not hear anything you claim Eizan is.”

-Evidence? That might be hard. Eizan concealed everything before I could expose anything. My only lead are Pixie dusts and that’s it.-

Hours later, the carriage landed and the mount dragged the ship to Rozzosea’s gate. The soldiers of Halsgrof, the capital, welcomed Shibata after they’ve confirmed their identities. Kihet’s expectations of the giant’s home were greatly demoralized to the point where tears form at the corner of his eyes. He hoped to see everything being enormous like he pictured.

The giant’s home had a Nordic-Medieval theme. The tip of their giant roof trusses pointing to the skies, with the main frames carved from large creature bones. Most of the building walls were built of stone. Everywhere Kihet looked, merrily loud cheerful laughter came together as many of them smashed barrels of beer together. The music played by different instruments were greatly different than the ones from Xu.

The road leading to the castle was wide enough to make crowded place feel spacious. One would need to hire a carriage to visit anywhere in the kingdom. It’s still another half an hour to reach the castle. The passengers were silent while they wait.

“Your highness, welcome to Halsgrof. The king has announced he will await you at his audience hall. He has ready to honor your presence with a banquet.”

Eizan was the first to greet the royal passengers. His expressions were all of the same smile, it’s unsettling.

Have I really thought too much? I don’t know what to think of him anymore.

“Good, have people unload the cargo and ready the gift I prepared for him. He will surely be pleased.” Shibata waved. “Kihet, let’s set the discussion aside. We must go make an impression to the king and queen. Don’t get distracted.”

“R-right.”

“Well, well, look who it is?” A familiar voice bellowed.

From two stories tall to about three meters tall, Kridas greeted Kihet’s arrival with many other Rozzosea’s finest warriors. His equipment was forged of higher quality studded leather, making his already muscular build more intimidating. He carried an axe but to Kihet it was a great axe because of the size difference.

“Ya ho~, it’s been a while, Kihet.”

An elegant figure, like a doll sat on Kridas’ shoulders. She waved her hand along with her silvery white hair floated down with Kridas’ aid. She wore a different attire when she left the village of a leather cuirass and faulds over white dress.

“Lemi! It’s great to see you doing so well! And Kridas… You’re actually this short?” Kihet was thoroughly perplexed by the truth.

“I suppose that’s your way of saying ‘long time no see’ but hey, I’m still half a meter taller than you. You can’t call me short. Shorty.”

“You were like a story or two tall when I met you.”

“I was surprised as well.” Lemi clasped her hands together.

“This must be your friend, what a beautiful lady she is.” Shibata gently held Lemi’s hand and knelt as if he’s proposing. “I am the one who governs over Xu, Wu Shibata. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” His lips softly peck the back of Lemi’s hand.

“The pleasure’s all mine, Prince. I am Lemi, one from the Enui village same as Kihet’s.” She did a small curtsy ignoring the king’s charm.

“Will you be free to accompany me this evening? I wish to learn more about you.”

“H-hey! Shib- Your highness.” Kihet slipped between the two. “You have important matters to attend!”

“Worry not, I only desire to learn her name. Holy Lemi, if you are ever visiting my kingdom please inform me. I will prepare special arrangements for you.”

“Thanks… I will?” Lemi replied as politely as she could. “It will be after the threat between Rozzosea and Xu have passed.”

“Oh! Then I shall make haste to the banquet. Come, Eizan.”

“Right behind you.” Eizan gathered his documents and briefed Shibata as they followed by his guards.

The two turn to each other as the king of Xu leaves for the palace.

“Well, putting that aside, it’s good to see you both.”

“It’s good to see you too. How were things on your side?”

“It was paperwork and babysitting… I saved two damsels in distress while I was travelling.” Kihet proudly thumped his fist on his chest.

“Hmm…” Lemi stared suspiciously at Kihet. “Are you sure you haven’t cheated on Sorah?”

“As if! There’s no way. I could say the same to you and I bet you have the same answer as me. What do you do around here?”

“Fair enough. I took the liberty of scouting talented individuals and have them help out in the clinic.” She points to a nearby tent that was distributing medical supplies to its patrons.

“Lemi was a big help. This country has been livelier than ever with the help of her treatments.”

“Lemi, you create miracles as always. Anyways, Kridas I still can’t get over the fact. I’m surprised you were actually this tall. I thought this kingdom would be huge.”

“You’re sure stubborn at that.” Lemi clapped her hands together with a shocking expression. “I thought it was some type of illness until I saw the citizens of Rozzosea. I’ll teach you more about their anatomy, but before that, let’s grab something to bite while we chat.”

“I know a great place.” Kridas smiled mischievously.

“What about the banquet?”

“I have pardoned us. The king allowed us to skip the event to show you around the city.” Lemi explained.

“Great! I’m excited for some food this country has.”

Kihet began licking his lips. His imagination went wild thinking of all the exquisite flavors different than Xu.

“Don’t be too ex…cited.”

Lemi looked away in disappointment. It’s as she was trying to send a warning for Kihet to escape. Kihet pay no heed to her message and walked into the bar, being oblivious to his surroundings.

-Aha, ahahaha… I feel funny. I’m seeing doubles of everything.-

My stomach was very bloated. I wanted to vomit but I couldn’t. I found myself on a bed, a roof over my head and a very distinctive odor you could smell from herbs.

This was a clinic Lemi ran. As I slowly moved up, I saw healers scuttling from room to room with Lemi’s medicines. They were tending patients in separate beddings. The place was fairly big, almost betraying its exterior because of the empty ceiling claiming the attic space. It might be because the building was built for the race of Giants.

“You’re up. How are you feeling?”

Lemi wrung a towel dry for me to wipe my face.

“A little overweight. What happened? Why am I laying here?”

“You don’t remember?”

“No, I do. I’m trying to deny reality.” I said as I burped. “Ugh… why didn’t you tell me?”

As for what happened, I’ll give a summary.

I remembered a bar where its patrons held barrels of beer and chugged it in seconds. It was as lively as Xu’s city with less music but more chattering.

Kridas nonchalantly ordered his favorite drink for himself and one for me. If I had paid attention to the name of the drink, I might’ve intervened and saved myself. But it was too late. As I watched my drink set in front me, I dashed towards the exit. Next thing I knew, Kridas and the barkeeper captured and sat me on the chair.

Then there I was, my nemesis. I faced my worst opponent yet… the giant barrel of alcohol, a fearsome foe.

It was literally a barrel. Panels encase the alcohol with iron rings fitted to perfectly form a cylinder shape with a handle large handle enough for a giant’s hand to hold. The liquid had a very unique… odor of sweet, sour and a hint of bitterness. Its appearance was greenish yellow with white foam leaking from the top.

That’s the gist of how I ended up hospitalized.

“I think I killed one of my livers.”

“Well you didn’t, that’s a good sign. You nearly scared me when you wouldn’t get yourself out of your drink.”

“I think you meant the drink was the one swallowing me.”

“Don’t be like that, how are you going to drink with the others from now on?”

“Say…” I narrowed my eyes at her. “You were giving me a strange look right before we entered the bar…”

“I-I think you were imagining it!” Lemi squeezed droplets from a dropper into a glass vial and stirred the contents hastily. She checked the substance’s clarity then passed it to one of the nurses.

“No, you did. You somehow knew didn’t you.”

“Sorry, they were like that when I met them. I told them of my health so I mentioned you when I had gotten news you would visit.”

“Y-you… wha- ugh! No use thinking about it now. I better find Kridas, this place is beginning to look busy.”

“Ok, see you later. He should be waiting by the castle gates he said. And I’m really sorry about that.”

“Please, don’t remind me… I’m going to have nightmares…”

I dressed myself with a hooded cloak and walked out the clinic onto the lively street. Using the city map, I navigated myself to where Kridas said he would be.

I then heard an argument.

“That’s not how it went. It’s true in my report Rodric was killed, but it was not their fault!”

I found Kridas struggling to win an argument. She had dark red hair, the same as Kridas, and a slick of hair covering one of her slanted eyes. Her armor was more decorative than Kridas’ and stood pretentiously as if she’s higher ranking than him.

“You’re too naive. First, they almost killed you. Second, they ask you bring them to Rozzosea.” She contended in an angry manner. “They may be the holy race but they’re nothing but leeches. Where is this evil they are supposed to slay? Are they spies for their village’s future plans? Are you not a suspecting their actions?”

“Look, I know Rodic was like your second dad and the loss has greatly impacted you. Can you please just listen and stay clam about this? Think about their perspective. Even Carymn gets it and it was her father that was killed.”

-It seems they were talking about the other giant who accompanied Kridas when we fought against the Shadow Knight from the forest. Man, this is nerve wracking. I don’t know if this was a good time to reveal myself.-

“I’m going to find their motives once and for all.”

-We don’t have any. My friends and I were only helping to fight against that shadow knight.-

“I don’t think you should push this onto Lemi. She’s a fragile being.”

“I know, I meant the other Enui. I heard he’s arrived with Xu’s ruler. I’m going to find him and make him spit out the truth.”

-Oh shit, she’s going to look for me-.-

As I turned away from the corner, I bumped into some civilians and fell into the open.

“My bad, sorry-. Eep!”

I immediately felt a chill ran down my spine and heard heavy stomping marching towards me. The woman, Kridas was talking to, seized me by the collar and lifted me up to her face. I heard faint growling noise and saw her fangs grinding against each other as I was stared by a threatening gaze.

“I need answers.”

H-help! She going to kill me!

“Sal! Cut it out!” Kridas yanked me away. “I cannot allow you to misbehave against the Enuis. I have formed my contract with their Elder to be their bodyguard of the condition of spreading their existence to the world.”

“W-what’s going on? Who is she?” I asked.

“Sorry Holy Kihet. My granddaughter is throwing a fit. She won’t believe what was told about you guys.”

“It’s because of the other giant?”

“Yeah. Sal’s not a bad child. She just has trust issue with strangers.”

“Stop spewing out crap to him! Shouldn’t you feel a bit hateful that they killed Rodic?”

“Would it make you happier if I was dead instead of Rodic?” Kridas enunciated his words slowly and loudly. His eyes took an unappealing form capable of pushing his granddaughter back two steps.

The atmosphere became awkward for me. From everyone’s perspective, Kridas scolded his granddaughter with a devastating reply. I wasn’t sure how to comment the situation, thus I kept silent.

Wasn’t that too much?

“Kihet, let’s leave. It’s better to leave her alone before things get worse. Hold tight and don’t talk. On three, we’re getting out of here.” Kridas whispered. “One, two…”

“What are you-?”

“Three!”

“Wait!”

Kridas instantly carried me over his shoulder and sprinted away. Though his footsteps were heavy and sluggish, his long legs allowed him to dash away in seconds. I could feel my skin was being pushed back by the force of the wind when Kridas was running.

We stop at the garden on the opposite side of the palace. It was a peaceful place, in fact it seemed it is the only place the whole town grew exotic plants.

The well-kept garden circled around the stone tiles. In the center, a fountain and led streams of water branching towards soils. Small architecturally designed bridges and fences surround the space between the plants and the fountain.

“Did we lose her?” Kridas wheezed trying to suck as much the air into his spent lungs.

“She didn’t try to chase us. What’s the deal with her?” I said as I kneeled by a small but odorless orange plant and examined its features. “Care to introduce in her stead?”

“She’s my granddaughter, Salith. I didn’t think she would return this early. She’s a bit eccentric, but she’s a talented fighter. She takes most of her appearance from her mother but personality of her father.”

“What was Rodic to her?”

“Her uncle. He was pretty much the other person who raised her. She’s very protective when it comes to family. I’ll tell you more when we hit the bar.”

“Please, mercy!”

“Joking. For now.” He chuckled.

-For now!? That means he’s going to make me drink later!-

Thinking about my worst nightmare, the barrel of beer, almost had me create my kind of mixed fertilizer for the garden.

“There you are.” Lemi called out from a corridor. “I heard the workers seeing the two of you running away from lady Salith. What happened?”

“A lot. Didn’t leave a good impression on me.” I sighed.

From a distance, footsteps echo from the hallow hallway leading to the garden. Salith ran with her full speed. Without taking another breath, “I found you!” she declared. “Enui, I challenge you to a duel! When I win, I will get a proper explanation from you!”

“A challenge? I’m sorry but whenever I take one I lose.”

“Kihet, did you do something inappropriate to her?”

Lemi, don’t give me that. I got the same look when I told you I saved Martha and Lily. Now you’re questioning me again because Salith’s hating me?

“It’s about how she doesn’t like me being near your kind since I was nearly killed.” Kridas scratched his neck.

“I can see Lady Salith really cares about her family.”

“I- erm, y-yeah…”

-What’s with the different treatment? Why am I taking all your pent-up frustration while you sound so awkward and behave so nicely around Lemi?-

“Oh? Interesting!” A familiar voice laughed making my face go uh oh… more trouble.

Shiba and the king of Rozzosea stood at the edge of the garden being followed closely by Eizan.

I could tell they’ve instantly became buddies with troublesome smirks on their face. The thought of a soldier from Rozzosea duelling against the holy race must’ve intrigued the royal audience.

The king of Rozzosea was much taller, maybe twice as tall than Shibata and heavily armored. Many scars on his breastplate leading to actual scars on his flesh were presented as his trophies earned from battle. His beard was braided in the same style as his golden hair and wears a crown like helmet made from rare metals.

“Take up the offer holy one, I wish to see how a soldier of the giants fare against you.” Rozzosea’s king spoke in a deep powerful voice. It resonated in the air as I could feel every vibration of his voice hitting my ears.

The voice alone was intimating enough to make the offer hard to reject.

“B-but I’m not a fighter…” I whispered. “Fine… I’m going to lose anyways.”

“Even if lady luck does not help, I believe you’ll survive this. Somehow.” Shiba laughed.

“Good luck Kihet.”

“I’ll treat you to a drink when age catches me.” Kridas lightly slapped his hand on my back.

“Don’t treat me like I’m dead! I’m still alive!” I angrily responded to Lemi and Kridas saddening act.

-God damn, everyone is getting out of their character just to make fun of me.- I could feel myself becoming more irritated with unexpected events randomly hurled at me.

The conditions for this duel were the contestants are to be given equal gear. We will fight and gain victory with skills and not better weaponry.

This is dreadful for me since I prefer not fight without being prepared.

Everyone was transferred to the arena. Only I was guided to the armory to use any equipment I was allowed to… but-.

“I can’t use any of this!”

My displeasure echoed in the room filled with gigantic weaponry. Swords were great swords. Longbows were like unfinished ballistae. Spears were pillars. Shields stood like walls.

I furiously knocked at the exit.

A guard opened the door asking, “What’s wrong?”

“What’s wrong!? Compare the size of my hand with those junk! I can’t even wrap my fingers around the handle of a dagger!”

“Ah. I’m terribly sorry. I will immediately fetch some equipment with your size.”

“Please do. My life depends on it.” I sighed. “Now what… No matter how much I look at that spear, it looks like a giant arrow.”

Salith might gigantify. It’d be impossible to approach her if she’s as tall as a building. I can’t use range magic or hold bow properly.

“What if…”

I grabbed the bow and began to lay down weapons on the ground. I positioned the weapons randomly until an idea hit my mind.

A few moments passed by someone knocked on the door.

“Holy one, I have brought the equipment for you.”

“Good timing!”

I opened the door and allowed the guard to deliver an assortment of weapons with the help of an ox like creature. Some of the contents were rusty, others were in great condition. However, I wasn’t looking at them. I was looking at the creature pulling the cart into the armory.

“Is there anything you required missing?”

“Hmm… I’m just not sure about two things. This is a one versus one duel correct?”

“Yes. You are against Lady Salith and no other contestants.”

“What if, I don’t know, a creature happened to crawl into the arena and fought with me. Will the fight continue?”

“Haha, that would be unlikely. In the event it would happen, I believe the event must continue.”

“And I can use anything in this room?”

“Yes sir.”

“Good, you can leave. That creature and the cart can stay.”

“P-pardon?”

“You said I can use anything in this room, and even if an animal was to fight alongside me it wouldn’t matter. C’mon, get out. I still need time to prepare.”

I picked up my usual shortsword and small shield as my choice of weaponry. I was lucky to find a mallet that resembled mine but there wasn’t a parry dagger. Next on the list: my contraption! I used the dagger which looked like a decent carving took to shave planks of wood I salvaged from wooden crates.

They fitted nicely without nails. I hammered the bow in the tight slot I carved and secured the contraption over a shield. As for armor, I picked the lightest equipment. I slipped on a helmet, leather armor for quick maneuverability and picked up a few more trinkets from the armory.

Half an hour later; the iron gates on my side open. I mounted the ballista inside the cart and commanded the ox to pull it within the arena.

-It’s the best I can do and I dare say I did an excellent job. With the mobility of this creature, power and range of this ballista, I won’t be caught that easily. I’ve test fired it a few times inside the armory and made a mess. Hopefully the cleaners will forgive me because I don’t want to die.-

The iron gates in the other side reveals a heavily armored giant. Salith's appearance mimicked a heavy knight with no opening. She uses a tower shield, which ruined my prediction and wielded a mace. And I thought she was more of a berserker type to use a two handed axe or war hammer.

“I guess there was no need to worry about her using ‘wars blood’ after all. The damn shield will block most of the arrows though, at least I predicted the possibility and made special projectile heads to counter it.” I mumbled.

-Though I wished there were more spears in the armory.-

The audience mutters at the chariot I rode but a portion still cheered for my victory. The arena was fully packed. I was amazed and wondered how word reached to this many people in seconds. I took a glance at my surroundings and found Shiba, Lemi, Kridas, the king of Rozzosea sitting together on the highest balcony.

Their mouths were constantly flapping. I bet they’re wondering how I got an ox on my side. Maybe something like this:

“How in the world did he find a Girax in an armory!? Geez, this guy sure likes to surprise.” Kridas laughed.

“He must’ve found a loophole.” Shiba snorted.

“No, he must’ve tricked the guard into dragging it for him.” Lemi sighed.

“Interesting, utilizing a restrictive number of props, that Enui was able to create a siege weapon. I care not if he managed to cheat the system, his creativity intrigues me!” Rozzosea’s King grinned. “If it will allow me to gauge his potential, then I will allow it. He is against a captain of 1000 soldiers.”

“Umm… your majesty.” Lemi raised her hand. “Out of the eight of us… he was most known to give up before battles start. I fear you might not get the battle you wish to observe.”

“Even to someone as physically fragile as you?”

“Hard to say, but his win conditions depend on a lot of variables. If he were to fight without preparation, the odds aren’t in his favor.”

“O-oh… is that so…” Somehow the King sounded incredibly depressed.

“Announcer, begin the event!” The King roared.

“A special duel granted by his majesty shall commence. Challengers, ready your weapons! The loser will be decided when they are unable to move or suffer major injuries.”

“M-major injuries!?” I repeated with a terrified look on my face.

“Scared?” Salith cracked her knuckles.

“Can I surrender? I don’t like getting hurt.”

The audience gave me a negative response. The announcer shook his head. “Sorry, you cannot forfeit this duel. You may be unaware, but it is the law to fight when you accept. Especially when a duel is granted by the king himself.”

“Seriously?” I nervously steeled myself. Before the fight began, I cocked a modified spear onto the ballista and readied the trigger. “Welp, here goes nothing…”

Salith stood behind her tower shield with her mace dangling behind.

“Fight!” The announcer slices the empty air with his hand.

At the mark, Salith bulldozed towards me faster than I expected. Her shield wedged through the ground. The earth roared as if an army was behind the cloud dust trailing behind her. It’s these little deceptive but terrifying actions that could give an advantage.

I accidentally released the trigger when I was struck by Salith’s intimidating charge. Salith shifted the wall behind when she felt the projectile had been demolished by her shield then put me in her sight.

“Fool!” She violently laughed as she ran berserker into my personal space.

“Giddy up!” I quickly had the ox pull away from Salith’s devastating smash. “Plan b!”

While I was still within her reach, I aimed for the lever underneath the ballista’s first shot. Who said there was only one shot?

I had been experimenting with traps and contraptions my whole life. I could probably implement seven more functions into this ballista if I was given more time. Unfortunately, I could only fit three with limited resources.

Bundle of normal sized arrows, shaved from the giant ones, scattered in a cone formation. Salith was forced to stop and block. It left her vulnerable. I took control of the reins and rammed her with the Ox which luckily gathered enough force to push her several steps back.

Salith received significant damage on her shield, but that didn’t stop her.

“I won’t fall from that.” Salith smacked the ox across the head and snatched its horns. “Sorry, bud. You’re in the way.”

She plunged the edge of the shield into the Ox. As the guillotine fell, the mount was decapitated by the shield and its body slumped on the floor. The audience cheers at the bloodshed for their amusement.

Holy shit! She’s not playing around! She’s going to really try to kill me!

“The ballista’s next! Without that Girax, it’s immobile!” Salith’s shield lead her charge.

“I’m a tricky bastard, you know?”

I ejected the bow by kicking it and cut a rope connected to a wooden arc. The pole slung itself in the air, pulling the head of a hammer towards her. A loud metallic bang indicated it had severely damaging her cover. It left a dent in her shield and the force was great enough to temporarily numb her arm, a giant’s arm.

“Shit, this thing’s too annoying! Good riddance!”

Her mace shattered my contraption into pieces. I was forced to draw my weapons. The audience cheers at the destruction of the ballista.

They just love to see things get killed and destroyed.

“Go Kihet! You can still beat her!” Lemi cheered.

“Yeah, after we’ll go to the bar to brag about your victory!” Kridas shouted.

-Winning seems less appealing now. I should play dead to avoid going for a drink with Kridas.-

“There’s nothing left. Your tricks won’t work anymore.” Salith angrily position herself into stance and raced forward.

Each of her strike was devastating, cracking the earth and splitting the terrain. I desperately dodged and fled. Eventually, she caught up and struck my shield. I was sent tumbling back, but surprisingly my bones held up.

Salith suddenly strongly unleash a devastating blow before I was able to think of a plan to escape. Her mace came at me from below, flinging me into the air. Instead of resisting, I let myself to be thrown back and used the momentum in the air for an almost perfect landing.

I staggered a few steps back to regain my balance and didn’t fall over. By the time I was able to take a small breath, Salith rushed towards me again.

-In that case-!-

“Fire, feared and holy. Let me create an explosion. Fire ball!”

She thought I could use magic. First of all, the prayer was wrong, and I didn’t have a catalyst. I feigned my ability to use magic to startle her. Even if I repeated the prayer correctly, I didn’t chant the magic words needed to invoke magic.

Salith raised her tower shield, bracing herself to receive my non existent magic attack. The arena fell silent for a few good seconds.

And it was all the time I need. The tower shield is a formidable defence that can fully protect one of the user, but it has a major weakness. It completely blocks the user’s vision.

I ran along Salith’s left flank as she set her shield aside to hide from her sight. When she thought I disappeared, I already positioned myself for a rear strike and struck a small gap between her armor from the back.

-Dammit, chain mail.-

“Why you! Where’d you come from?!”

She quickly brandished her mace, snapping one of the spears but I was far enough to evade. If I jumped back, I would be giving her some breathing space and a chance for her to redeploy her defense. I need to keep up the pressure and stay close enough to get out of her optimal attack range.

Luckily, my small build helps as I continue to dance around her like an annoying mosquito and took another jab with my spare spear. The audience saw my advantage and began cheering in my favor.

“You’re annoying!”

“I’m trying to not die!”

When I got behind her for the third time, she hip checked me. I did not expect her to do that and left my sword stuck between the gaps of her armor while I tumbled back.

“Not bad, I’d say! But if you keep doing the same attacks, I’d eventually adapt to it!”

Before I was able to get back up, she had already raised her mace. I rolled away in time, but the shockwave launched me about a good meter off ground.

I got back on my feet and saw the area around grow dark, I looked up. I’ve known Giants to be slow, sluggish, and powerful but Salith was quick. She already caught up to me. Her mace was high up in the air, giving me about a second to dodge.

Time seemingly slowed down as the conclusion of the fight drew near. I could dodge, but if I do, I might be tossed around like a ball again. I need to get past her shield and hit her.

-If I remember correctly that soldier from Xu went right foot, duck, twirl, slide, twirl, leap…-

This was same footwork the veteran from Xu used against me. I suddenly dropped down and sidestepped, dodging Salith’s mace and slithered in an arc around her. I used her bulky build to hide myself then circled around making as little noise as I could.

Though it was tiring and in one rigid motion, I imperfectly managed to breach Salith’s iron clad guard from an unpredictable angle. I was on the ground below her, then found myself in the air close to her neck as I demonstrated a decent version of Xu’s nimble footwork.

My heart raced as I raised my mallet high in the air. I aimed for the lightest armored part.

“I win!”

“Like hell!” Salith growled. “You leave me with no choice!”

Right before I landed the winning blow, Salith gigantified herself. Shrapnel from her armor scratched and exploded in my face, a megaton of force shot me into to the edge of the arena. I felt a hard collision on my head before I blacked out.

-Not this again…-