A/N: Hey guys. No reason to read this if your not interested. I just want to put this in since it looks much better if I put something like a memo on top. Please continue.

(Krey's 2nd Mind P.O.V.)

Freyja's surreal image continued to grow in power and presence. I felt like a small leaf being swept away by a massive river, completely unable to resist the flow. And soon the archaic and powerful aura surged throughout my relatively small spiritual sea, I felt my spiritual projection here flicker unstably, obviously my spiritual projection is not able to take on such an ancient energy... well, whatever. Its about to end soon anyway.

And as expected, her show of force finally ended and Freyja soon returned to normal... well as normal as a little girl standing in the surface of a sea could be... which is really weird, even for me.

"I see. Nice to meet you, Freyja. Now if you excuse me, I have other matters to attend to and I would very much like it for you to vacate my spiritual sea." (Krey)

Its not like I am ungrateful of course. I vaguely remember her presence back then when I was in trouble and since she did confirm that she was the one who helped me seal that stupid god of chaotic fate, I have to thank her for saving my skin.

I think that it would be better if she left that place. Although it is my spiritual sea, there is a bit of an unfamiliarity with it and the knowledge pertaining to the soul from All-Magic Awakening is not complete. The way to use of soul threads came from that knowledge but I am not sure if I can tackle it with my current knowledge and limited refinement rank.

So she should vacate that place at least until I understand my spiritual sea in great detail. She said she was my benefactor so I wouldn't want some uncertainties to happen while she is in there.

"No. Your spiritual should have only appeared when you reach the Arch refinement rank. But due to the circumstances... I forcibly accelerated the growth rate of your chimeric soul so that a premature spiritual sea can be developed..." (Freyja)

Chimeric soul? Probably a term used in ranking the strength of souls. Or maybe it is a way to describe souls? Mine actually sounds a bit disgusting. Does it represent my personality...? Nah. Let's run away from that thought. In fact, I'll definitely erase that thought.

"... and the sea of consciousness is generally the home of any soul-bounded and blood-bounded magic items, including the Divine Armament. As a Dual Legacy Protector and as a Champion, you must remember this well." (Freyja)

"So what you are saying is...?" (Krey)

"This is my territory. You have no rights to this place until you yourself become an Archmagus. Do you understand now?" (Freyja)

...

Am I being kicked out...? Out of my own head?

This little girl... yeah, truthfully I am not mad... yet. She did help me after all. The least I could do is to be tolerant. Its true that although I understand the uses of the spiritual sea, magical and spiritual stress will build up if I use it prematurely now. Especially since I have quite a low refinement rank. Well, I have not much understanding regarding the soul anyway so it best not to delve into the matter of my sea of consciousness.

And from what I know, my brain and spiritual sea are not that closely linked. Sure they might have some relations with each other but Mages rely on logic and facts to conjure their spells or manipulate mana (the sense of logic in this world is wrecked) , with a little bit of help from willpower, talent, imagination, and luck which is opposed to the Warriors who rely on their instincts, intuition and their absurd willpower, at least according to Kira.

I am not saying that warriors are dumb but they just have a closer and more tight connection to the world, unlike the mages who pursue the path of absolute control. I'll let this girl occupy my spiritual sea for now, I can still use my soul threads even if she occupies it so no lost there.

Besides, who can get mad at such a cute girl? Wearing a plain white dress, has sharp amber eyes and smooth flaxen hair. White porcelain skin with a healthy shade and incredible bearing and posture despite looking like a five-year old... this is definitely the makings of a bishoujo! Still I wonder why her voice is similar to Frelinia's? But much younger and more... sharp-tongued.

Don't get me wrong, I don't hate people who spout out such venomous words... unless of course those words were directed at me. I am a very petty person. Usually a specially-modified laxative in their drink would be my punishment to them but of course... accidents can happen. Fufu.

"... Why is someone like you even a champion of my mistress?! You can't just wantonly take lives as you please like a fiend! You are not a champion of the goddess of death, not a champion of the goddess of war and neither are you a champion of the god of destruction! You are the champion, the only envoy of the goddess of life!" (Freyja)

These words left me tongue-tied for a while, unable to process what she was saying. Killing like a fiend? Did I ever do that? How absurd! Every assassination was a business transaction, carefully planned for and facilitated by professionals such as myself and my other colleagues as well as the clients. I never kill unless I get payed.

Wait... how did she know I was thinking about the times where I was still active in the assassination business (I was still active even when I was 17 but not as much as when I was 10)? Is she an esper? No wait, she is a Divine Armament. An armament of a god... what could be the possible abilities of such godly artifacts?

"... You can read my mind?" (Krey)

"Hmph. Of course you fool. Any magic item, whether it is in the Equipment level or Divine Armament level, can be able to read the minds of their user as long as it already has or grown a self-awareness, it has been blood-bounded, as well as soul-bounded." (Freyja)

"... I see." (Krey)

... Well that sucks. So I can't think out loud anymore? This would be a problem for me... not. I just need to clear my mind... still as a pond, serene as the moon... yeah fuck it. I was never good at keeping my mind blank anyway. Even if I do manage to do it, I have a feeling that it is not going to work... right?

But still, she really is sharp-tongued. If it was any normal guy, they would be crying already since being scolded by a little girl is just well... pathetic? Pitiful? Whatever. Should I clear my mind again?

"Of course it won't. Are you an idiot? Anything and everything pertaining about your existence... I know about all of them. Your mind is like an open book to your Divine Armament so don't expect to hide anything from me, my dear wielder." (Freyja)

Freyja looked at me like I was a rare species of an animal and continued mocking me. It was subtle but it definitely has hints of her scolding me. As the responsible and mature person I am, I only thought of one thing in this situation...

...

This bitch is gonna get it! You think you can mess with this guy and get away with it?! Fuck you, you bitch! I was already so tolerant but you kept pushing me! What is wrong with you?! I won't stand for such repeated provocations!... is what I am inwardly thinking but apparently, she thinks nothing of it and even smiled coldly at me. I guess she might have caught that slight burst of rage in my mind.

... Yep it definitely sucks. I do not like this feeling of being thoroughly unraveled. Of course it is not comparable to the shock I felt when I mistakenly thought I was... violated by Kira... yeah my habit of making far-fetched assumptions is still on full throttle. Whatever, I need to do something to get rid of this unpleasant feeling.

... Ah! I know! Fufufu. I guess I should show this girl that messing with me won't be that easy. My spiritual projection smiled a an eerie smile towards Freyja and I began to imagine all of the perverted things I've seen in my life. Soon after, Freyja's little face started to become red and she looked on with flabbergast, completely unable to speak due to the things she saw in my mind.

Fufufu. Looks like it is not enough... what? Underhanded? I am not completely without desires y'know? A healthy boy needs to have a release once in a while y'know? That being said, I still did not do the deed before so I am still pure. But enough about me, time to pay her back--ACCK!!

"Ahh!... gunuuu..." (Krey)

I felt my head becoming heavy for a moment but then waves of unbearable pain began to assault all three of my minds. Pain flowed like water, completely unimpeded and tranquil but of course this slow and gradual onslaught only made the pain worse. Soon everything seemed to be unreal and unstable but I can still see Freyja clearly... well at least her feet anyway.

My spiritual projection (which was being controlled by the second mind) was able to raise it head shakily and what appeared in my vision was a red-faced Freyja who was pointing and shouting at my spiritual projection. I can't hear anything due to the pain and before my spiritual projection was able to smirk, all three of minds, including me, blanked out.

(Krey P.O.V.)

I am pissed. Very very pissed.

Before I can brag to Liz about what I was teaching to her, I felt a sharp pain in my head and I knew that either my connection to my three minds was cut off or they were somehow incapacitated or was exterminated. I was confused at first but I soon realized that Freyja... that pesky little brat did something to me...

I can't sense my second, third and fourth minds. Either they were incapacitated or the connection between us have been cut off. I think it was the former. Since I was the one who created the True Divine Art: Parallel Thought, I know the intricate details of this Divine Art even if my refinement rank is still unable to support the refined mana consumption of it. Even if the connection between my auxiliary minds were cut off, I would not feel such sudden pangs of pain in my head.

Only if one auxiliary mind or my original mind was incapacitated would my head feel pain. In fact...

'Why the hell did you do that you little brat?!' (Krey)

I loudly exclaimed in my mind then an image of Freyja, completely different from her usual dignified appearance appeared in my mind... what the heck? Her face is red, almost like a tomato and her lips are trembling. Her hair is also slightly disheveled and her eyes are tearing ever so slightly. If I was a normal guy, I would feel pity for such a small girl in her state... unfortunately, I don't care.

'Hmph. It was because of your indecency you deviant!' (Freyja)

'Huh?! What nonsense are you blabbering about?!' (Krey)

I vaguely remember my second mind planning to punish this brat for continuously insulting me (or maybe us?) without any tact. I know and understand morals and although I know that sometimes my motives and actions are against them, I still do my best to abide by them... at least I think I do.

And most importantly, I did not start it! She was the one who first provoked me and I have been patient for a while until I couldn't take it anymore. What? I have a short fuse? I'm sorry but I just don't like being abused in any manner. And if a small girl was the one that was bullying me, won't I lose my dignity?

'Don't act like you do not know anything!! You showed me something completely disgusting! That girl... she was... on her chest...' (Freyja)

Then Freyja hugged herself and began shivering. Her face no longer red but completely white, as if she saw a ghost... wait. Can an artifact from a god become scared? Well that's a first for me. Anyway, what did my second mind show this brat anyway? Hmmm... memories from my second mind is coming back to me... oh there it is! Let's see it was... oh my word.

Was my second mind that consumed with rage when he used this? Well, I guess he was since he took the brunt of the insults. And this punishment... even I would not dare witness this scene for a second time... it is one of the things that only sickos could really enjoy. I may enjoy dismembering and examining live humans back on Earth but I am definitely not that demented. Yes, I did those things for science! *nod* *nod*. It was completely not because I was a sadist, definitely not.

Anyway, I guess I should at least end this argument? Showing a memory of a hardcore BDSM bestial guro video might be too much for her. I first took a deep breath, calming my mind for a moment and motioned for Liz to wait for a moment since she might become unsettled because I stopped talking for a while.

Liz tilted her little dragon head to one side curiously before closing her eyes, apparently content with waiting for a while. Yeah, she is really cute. Like a plush toy. I smiled at her before I readied myself to apologize to Freyja.

I closed my eyes and exclaimed loudly in my head two words.

'I'm sorry.' (Krey)

In those words, I displayed a concise yet deep show of repentance. It might seem short but I really did put in my feelings in this two words. It showcases my genuine desire to ask for forgiveness. I think this is the best apology I ever uttered so far... right?

...

'...' (Freyja)

Silence reigned in my mind for a significant amount of time. And by significant, I meant a long time. This silence even seemed to spread to the outside. Liz who was peacefully waiting with closed eyes began to feel sleepy. I could tell because she seemed to be unsteady while flying. I grabbed Liz gently and held her close while trying to sort out the problem that I am currently facing.

I don't know why Freyja is quiet but I completely know the reason why I am also silent. It is because...

...

...

...

... No wait...? Why did I apologize?

...

...

... I've never apologize with utmost sincerity before!! I am completely unable to understand my thought process earlier! Why did I apologize anyway?! She started it right?! Right?! I remember it clearly! She provoked me first and I retaliated like so right?! The one that apologize was definitely not me! Not me! It was definitely not according to my style... no, wait. What if she did something to me that caused me to be like this...?

...

I see! It was definitely it! She might have done something to me that caused me to act unlike my true self! Of course, the true me will never apologize with that sincerity and even if I do, I'll apologize in monotone! That is me! What?! Immature?! I don't care! If people will insult me, telling me that I am not a man for making a girl scared, I'll just ignore them.

As I was about to take back my apology, Freyja suddenly coughed lightly before saying-

'All right. I will accept your apology. It is good that you know that you are in the wrong.' (Freyja)

Freyja puffed out her chest while crossing her arms. She raised her chin while closing her eyes and uttered a 'humph' like a certain anime character with twin tails. Her body completely exudes out an aura of satisfaction, childish victory and arrogance. There's also a healthy blush on her face and her lips are curled into a smile.

... I guess I'll just shut up? Luckily, she was too preoccupied with catching my train of thought earlier. I don't how she was able to read my (our?) thoughts earlier but I should just let it slide. *nod* Yes. It was definitely because I was benevolent and just. Not because I was affected by her cuteness earlier. *nod* *nod* Yep, definitely not.

'Idiot. I told you I know everything about you. Whatever you think about, whatever you want to do, I can easily know. Don't worry, I won't incapacitate you for now since you did feel sorry for what you have done. Be thankful, boy. Ufufufu.' (Freyja)

...

God fuck it. If I have this annoying brat inside my head, I would definitely become-aack!

"Arrgh..." (Krey)

My head suddenly felt heavy and then a gigantic wave of pain assaulted my head. I almost couldn't continue to stay in the air because of that sudden pain but it only lasted for a moment. Soon, I regained my bearing, albeit my forehead already has beads of sweat appearing. It really was painful even if it was short.

'Be careful of making snide comments. Otherwise you always becoming unconscious will be the least of your worries.' (Freyja)

Freyja warned me in a light amused tone before disappearing from my mind. If I go deeper, I could find her in my spiritual sea but I don't want to anymore. In fact, its better if I ignore her. Yes. As they say, let sleeping dogs lie. You won't die if you don't seek death.

I wiped the sweat from my forehead before nudging Liz to wake up. Liz opened her eyes and then yawned cutely. Liz seems disinclined to fly away from my grasp so I'll just hold her like so. Liz stared at me then asked me something.

'Are you done thinking, Krey nii-chan?' (Lisana)

'Un. I'm finished. Let's go to where Kira is okay?' (Krey)

'Okay. But you better apologize to big sis Kira, Krey nii-chan! She is still sad you know? Girls are fragile creatures you know? Apologize like a man!' (Lisana)

...

'Liz, who taught you that?' (Krey)

'Hmm? It was big sis Kira.' (Lisana)

...

Should I praise Kira or hit her for teaching that logic to Liz? No. Let's just forget about it. It is good that Liz is already getting an awareness of genders at this time. It would be good for her in the long run.

Anyway the real issue is... how should I apologize? Normally? Bowing? Dogeza? Slapping myself and kowtowing? No, no. Let's not overthink this. Damn it, why is the thing called guilt such a pain in the ass? I can't even think straight...

Even as I was contemplating in my mind, I was already levitating towards the magic carriage. I already wore my mask this time. Better to act mysterious and hard to reach. I need to keep them on their toes. After all, the scariest thing is not knowing what is coming to you.

The plains are quite wide but we already reached a road despite how massive the plains are. Although the carriage moves fast, I can easily catch up to it. I can see the wheels turning and kicking up a dust trail while advancing forth. The mounts are also pulling the carriage... actually they're efforts are useless. Magic carriages run on mana and they don't need to be pulled to move. *sigh* I really don't know what the guys that did this are thinking.

The other magic carriages are also there, acting as escort of some sort. On the bright side, I was not seen yet is strange that they did not notice me, but then again they might have been warned already that I was coming.

And they did see me fight against that old man. Really they came prepared. The old man could have become a long-ranged tactical nuke if I didn't seize the weakness of that Godrealm Sigil Formation. Still, the old man was pretty good to not panic in that situation. I guess its as expected of the old generation? By the way, I am still pissed at that guy.

As I was about to land on the roof. I heard Kira's voice inside my head.

'Oh? You're here already? Come on in. Use the door instead of breaking through the roof okay?' (Kiralne)

As she said that, the door of the carriage opened (surprisingly it was a sliding door) while the carriage is moving at high speed. Hey, in my world you'll get arrested if you did something like that y'know?

And as for breaking through the roof...

...

I actually did not think of that but I guess it would be fun. I'll try to keep it in mind. With Liz held against my chest, I floated towards the entrance and landed in the interior of the carriage. The door also closed by itself in the meantime. Oh, the place looks quite nice. Its much more spacious than I imagined. Its about five meters in length, width and height. Quite spacious indeed.

The carriage walls are padded with a special kind of foam as well as some cloth that fit snugly in the corners. There are also small lights, forming a little chandelier of some sort on the ceiling, making the interior seem cozy. There are also some really comfy-looking sofas situated at the corners and a small table in the center. There is also a steel box in one spot.

Also there are three people inside here. Kira, the old man, and the... huh? Isn't this the bunny onee-san back on that really cheap inn? Why is she here? And she also has an Elder refinement rank? That is really strange... to think that waitress in that inn was such a strong individual...

Kira and the old man are drinking some tea, completely relaxed while the bunny girl... is being given a lap pillow by Kira? I guess they might have some friendship since Kira allows her to use her lap as a pillow. And the bunny girl seems to be asleep.

"Krey, you're here. Come, sit next to me." (Kiralne)

Kira smiled at me then patted the sofa beside her. I felt my eyebrow twitch since I just remembered that I still have to apologize to her... oh why can't just I get struck by lightning and forget about this blunder? No, it might be too painful. Even though I am confident I can take lightning on.

"Krey, why don't you take off your mask? You look really silly." (Kiralne)

When she said that, I froze and almost face-palmed. I thought we agreed that I would keep my true identity hidden and just act in the shadows. That way, even if Tolkium Kingdom faces a grave crisis that would be hard to stop, we could always cut our losses and move to another country. Establishing a foothold in a big country is desirable but even if it is somewhere remote, I can always put some Seals and Sigil Formations around the area to make any base we build be impenetrable.

And besides, I know that dealing with national politics can be tricky. I am relatively unknown here and if I support some other faction that Kira recommends, I would have to deal with politics sooner or later. *sigh* Blackmailing and threatening people back on Earth is far more enjoyable than this.

I need to keep myself mysterious and unpredictable, become a wild card in the game that Tolkium Kingdom is embroiled in. If I see the chance, I might be able to come up on top and see the true situation here. Come to think of it, it seems like I am gambling. Ugh, I hate gambling... too much risks and even lesser returns...

'... You're plans are quite detailed but unfortunately, it is not going to work... at least not in this place.' (Freyja)

Freyja's voice resounded in my mind and she seemed opposed to my plans... screw it. She is definitely against it. But at least she is not spouting out some hurtful words like earlier. It would be a while before my other three minds will revitalize so I would not like a time bomb like her to suddenly explode on me.

'What do you mean?' (Krey)

'What I mean is, although machinations and conspiracies are commonplace between nobles and influential people in every country at the Mortal Realm of Salratia... honor, dignity and most importantly, trust still holds sway in politics.' (Freyja)

'And...?' (Krey)

'You're method is quite interesting. Causing hidden unrest in the political circle, then waiting like a slippery yet venomous snake to seize the chance for victory. Although it is only one of the little tricks in the book, I must say... although your former world has no mana, the people's way of thinking is much more vicious than most of the races in Salratia.' (Freyja)

'And your point is?' (Krey)

To tell the truth, I am quite impatient already. To the outside, I must've stopped moving for five seconds just to talk with Freyja. Five seconds may not seem like much, but I know how important even a second is, in fighting and killing. The old man might become tense and that would either put a dent in my plans or improve it but I don't want to try it out.

'In other words, if you are direct and candid in your intentions, the other party would also respond in kind. This is the usual way that the true ancient noble families would interact. And by the looks of things, I think that this scion of the House of Reynald will still follow tradition. But judging by your attitude and beliefs, it is clear that you won't believe what I say. No matter. The sweet child has already done her part splendidly.' (Freyja)

'Oi oi, what do you mean?' (Krey)

I for one, think that what she said is a little far-fetched... fine, I'll be honest and crude. It is complete and utter bullshit. Honesty has never been the strong point of humans and I find it hard to believe that a large family like that would include honesty in their top-ten-things-to-follow-when-you-grow-up. Their bloodline would have already been ended if their descendants would be that naive.

But when she said that last part, I already felt that something was wrong and I had a bad feeling crawling up my back. Then I looked at Kira who was still smiling like a normal teenage girl. My lips twitched but I forced the bad feeling back and looked towards the old man.

He had a solemn and wary glint in his eyes but his face shows an amiable expression. I calmed down a bit since his reactions are within my expectations. I then glanced at Kira and sent an Aura Transmission at Kira.

'What do you think are you doing? I need to keep my identity hidden so as to have more cards in play. Your suggestion would make my efforts earlier for naught.' (Krey)

I did not send it angrily nor was there any animosity. Since the stupid thing called guilt is still weighing me down, I can't just get angry at Kira. Furthermore, its not like my plans are ruined yet. If my guess is right, they might just have been leisurely chatting. And since there is a complex-looking tea set on the table, I guess they might have taken some time to fully enjoy the scent and taste of tea.

And besides, this mask has an effect of making my currently childish voice a tone deeper so it would be hard to identify me through my voice.

'Ah, about that. I already told Mr. Turlan about your identity as a Champion of Frelinia and about your mysterious master in the Divine Realm. I also told him about your age but I just can't describe your face. I can't only just say that you are cute after all, even though its is true, so can you take off your mask? A face-to-face meeting is really a formidable show of respect and trust after all.' (Frelinia)

...

... Ai, my guess was wrong.

Before she was even done speaking, my mind was already in complete shambles, trying to piece together what she just said. She told him my age? Me being a champion? That's already throwing out a third of my cards! Before my body began trembling from frustration and as I was about to spout out some profanities, Freyja's voice resounded in my head again.

'Do as she says. If you don't, I will incapacitate you.'(Freyja)

"..." (Krey)

...

I have run all the simulations on my head and I've therefore concluded that any resistance is useless. If I get angry, Freyja will make me lose consciousness and judging from Kira's intent, she'd still take off my mask. And then I lose my trump cards in the political circle. If I try to justify myself, I will still lose consciousness and the cycle continues. Therefore I will cooperate for now.

Having that decision in mind, I sat myself next to Kira and put Liz on my lap. Liz yawned cutely and settled herself firmly in my lap, almost like a puppy would and she began sleeping, but not before reminding me to apologize to Kira. With Liz asleep, I finally took off my mask.

The old man took in a cold sharp breath while the bunny onee-san who was also sleeping earlier, woke up at the moment that my mask was fully off and she also widened her eyes. I hold the urge to raise my brow in annoyance since it has been a long time since I've seen people react like this. *sigh* I really want to have my five-year old face back.

What appeared in their eyes was a very pale boy. His skin was too white, almost as if he was near death. The boy had dark black hair, that seemed to be messy yet still look fascinating. Light blue eyes that just draw you in but seemed to contain a chilly coldness about them, almost as if the sky itself was looking down on them.

His facial features weren't that childish though, settling on the line between a young man and a boy. But one could not help but notice the feminine features of his face. If he wore a dress, no one would doubt that he would be a girl. The boy looked on with indifferent calmness, as if he was brooding about something--- is what they are probably thinking. At least that's what I could tell from their reactions and the changes in their eyes.

I then glanced at Kira and told her in a low voice.

"I don't know what you are planning but you better make this work. If this is one of your games, then trust me I am not in the mood to play." (Krey)

Usually I am carefree and unrestrained but I still have some of my priorities straight. For some reason, I can't even talk in my normal laid-back voice now. All that's coming from my mouth was a voice filled with an icy calmness and disinterest. Was I angry? Yes I was. Even if I had used my mood swings to mess with Liz before, this time it is different.

Now, I am really angry. But I can't show open opposition since I am at a disadvantage against Freyja. So I will just have to endure and press Kira to somehow salvage the situation. Kira looked a bit shocked and she bit her lip for a moment before going back to her pleasant smiling face.

'I know. I have it all figured out so... please don't stare at me so angrily.' (Kiralne)

Kira sent me an Aura Transmission and her voice was tinged with helplessness. I am unperturbed by that and only remained silent, while holding Liz close to me. Throughout the entire carriage ride, I could say that Freyja annoyed me to no end. Only an unexpected information as well as a good pillow was able to placate me.

(Kiralne P.O.V.)

Uuu... just what is wrong with him today? Did Liz and I push him too hard and he became like this? Was Liz treatment not effective on him? Wasn't he supposed to experience a normal life, facilitated by me and Liz so that his emotions and state of mind would stabilized? Wasn't he supposed to be easy to understand now? Yet why... why is he being so quiet?! Why is he just sitting there like a statue?! This does not conform with my understanding of his personality.

'Hey! Come on talk to me and at least participate in the conversation between the Archduke! This is related to the mission that goddess Frelinia gave to you so please cooperate!' (Kiralne)

'...' (Krey)

Krey merely stayed silent, immobile and unreadable. But the presence he exudes seemed like a wild ferocious beast that is crouching, waiting for the opportune moment to kill its prey. And apparently, I think that we are the prey here. Even Filly is not being sleepy nor is she being clingy.

She is sitting straight, though it is a bit stiff but fear can be seen in her eyes. The aura that someone of Krey's power level emits can be very terrifying. I and Mr. Turlan are able to resist but it doesn't mean that we are in a pleasant situation. We had to use our own Aura Essences to protect the other carriages outside just because of the Aura Essence that is naturally leaking from Krey.

Mr. Turlan was uncomfortable as he brewed tea. Earlier, he offered some tea to Krey and Krey took it without words. Krey drank it all without any expression and placed it on the table again. He poured more tea on Krey's cup and Krey again drank it without any reaction. This created an awkward situation in the carriage that was not cleared for quite a while

'...Miss Kiralne Vitavare. I take it that this young master is in a bad mood. Have we done anything that might have incurred his displeasure?' (Mr. Turlan)

'I can't say. He is not usually like this. In fact I can say that we are very close, almost to the point of being siblings but this is the first time I've seen him this... quiet. Too quiet in fact. He does not even smile like usual anymore.' (Kiralne)

I revealed too much personal information but I can't help it. This is the first time I've seen him like this. When he gets angry, he usually curses at me and tries to make my life miserable but I can tell that this anger is on another level. A calm anger. That is even more scary. I am not afraid that he'll hurt me but I am more afraid that our relationship would be damaged.

That would be pathetic wouldn't it? I would be lonely again and I'd have failed my mission to my clan. Mr. Turlan coughed and began speaking of the earlier issue.

"*cough* Back to our topic earlier. These three houses are the backbones of the faction that is supporting her highness, Princess Lazuli's faction. The House of Diceon, The House of Harald, and The House of Katricce." (Mr. Turlan)

"Ah, is that so? To think that you have two of the most troublesome aristocratic families as your adversaries, my condolences to you, Archduke." (Kiralne)

"Not all is lost. The House of Diceon seemed inclined to negotiate for a ceasefire between our factions but the other two houses are less... cooperative. Now they are asking for incentives so that the issue of the throne can be discussed. What fools..." (Mr. Turlan)

Mr. Turlan attempted to end the awkwardness by continuing our discussion earlier. It lightened up the atmosphere a bit but Krey is not responding at all. In fact, the pressure he is exerting is growing. Although we can also raise the pressure, Filly would be affected and its not a good thing for a daughter of one of our allies to be killed while we are here. That would look bad and worsen the situation for us. And so the only thing we can do is try to suppress Krey but not harm Filly... which is not going so well.

"Hic... gunuu... ah..." (Filly)

Filly is sweating all over. Her hands are clenched into fists and her face and body is entirely red. She is already trembling and her eyes are closed tightly. I don't know how much longer she will last before she faints but I hope that it will be soon. It would not be good for her to suffer because of Krey's antics.

Although we tried to continue the discussion, with Krey and Filly becoming like this, even someone as composed as Mr. Turlan find it hard to talk about serious matters. We once again sunk into an uncomfortable silence. Mr. Turlan once more poured more tea for Krey and he drank it without any reactions whatsoever.

Oh this is really not going well. Why did he have to act like this at a delicate time? Can't he resume his antics when we are finished with this issue? *sigh* And Liz, why are sleeping at this time? Control your big brother will you! As I was complaining like so, a very familiar yet unfamiliar voice resounded in my mind.

"Hit him in the head." (????)

That immaculate and pure voice asked, no more like ordered me to do so. But hit? Hit who? And why should I? Before I was able to think about it more clearly, my right hand moved as if it was compelled by some ancient force. Without warning, my hand was raised and then clenched into a fist. As if by the will of the gods, my fist descended mercilessly and painfully landed... on Krey's head.

Time seemed to stand still as I slowly removed my hand from Krey's head. Krey did not react but Filly and Mr. Turlan were quite shocked. Well only Filly is though. Mr. Turlan raised an eyebrow before turning back to normal but not without having some sweat form in his forehead. Filly is less calm though. She looked in with a disbelieving expression and then she pointed at me with trembling hands.

Ah... she must be really afraid of Krey. Well, the things I spoke of earlier has some truth in them (some I just made up) and her being a devout believer of the Church of Salratia makes her think that Krey is a messiah of some sort. But most of all, the light scuffle that Krey had with Mr. Turlan, although short must be quite a terrific event for these Elder-level Mana Manipulators. The figures of these two might have been firmly engraved on their minds.

And for Krey to be sitting here with her... it may be too much. The fear from earlier hasn't been calmed and throughout the trip with Krey in tow, she was very uncomfortable, at least that's what I could tell.

Perspiration fell down like a waterfall as her mouth flapped about, unable to utter any coherent words. I myself think what I did was a little strange... No it was definitely weird. I don't have the habit of hitting people nor do I wish to. But I think I am a bit too calm for my own good.

"Hey, Kira. Did a brat's voice told you to hit me?" (Krey)

Krey asked me in a very chilly tone. This is a really strange side to Krey. He is usually just calm and laid-back and his tone when speaking is usually tinged with the tone of a carefree child. Well, careless in his case. But now all I can sense is just insurmountable coldness. Even the air about him is unusually cold.

As for his inquiry... the voice earlier did seem to sound young. Unfortunately, due to suddenness of it, I wasn't able to commit it to memory. But there is something familiar about that voice...

"I don't know if it was a child's voice or not but it did tell me to hit you in the head." (Kiralne)

"Hmm. I see." (Krey)

Krey nodded and responded with a cold voice. He sipped the tea that was given to him and looked at Mr. Turlan. Unlike before, his eyes once again turned into a bright iridescent color and the cold atmosphere disappeared. Instead it was replaced by an aura of magnificence and dominance. His eyes flashed with majesty as the entire carriage seemed to shake in response to the illustrious presence.

All the people in the carriage, including me, closed our mouths and swallowed our saliva. The aura that Krey is exhibiting is different from the Aura Essence pressure that he was using earlier. Now it seemed more... diverse and chaotic. But also unified and complete. The strange nature of the aura that Krey is exhibiting makes one unable to breathe properly.

The matter of the voice was completely forgotten by me.

Krey looked on with an eerie calmness and finally spoke.

"Let me tell you something first. You don't need to explain yourself, nor do you need to speak. You just have to answer my questions and you shall do so concisely and quietly. Give a nod to signify a "yes" and shake your head sideways to signify a "no". Do you understand?" (Krey)

Krey's voice seemed to be infused with power as he spoke each words clearly. The magnetic words although it contained insulting words, did not seem to be too insulting anymore. In fact, it even felt pleasant to the ears. Me, Mr. Turlan and Filly know that if we just clear our minds a bit, then we can be rid of this feeling we are in.

But Krey's countenance and words are like an addicting drug. The thought of discarding such feelings never came to mind. Even Mr. Turlan did not show any reaction to the very disrespectful words uttered by Krey earlier. Mr. Turlan slowly nodded to express his understanding and Krey gave a nod as well.

"Now then, first question. Have the troops of Lumen Isles Union arrived in the mainland?" (Krey)

Mr. Turlan gave a slow nod. It was as expected. This fact has been already told to me earlier and Krey seemed to already know it as well. He just wanted to confirm it. Krey did not react to the nod of affirmation and continues on asking questions.

"Second question. Have they occupied any areas? Did they declare any city, town, or village as the territory of Lumen Isles Union?" (Krey)

This time, Mr. Turlan shook his head. Krey raised an eyebrow and continued asking questions. It was quite a surreal scene. A little boy interrogating an old man while the old man nods or shakes his head to answer. It bared a resemblance to a parent interrogating their child after scolding them. But this time the one that looks like the child is Mr. Turlan and Krey is the parent.

("Are the First Prince and the Second Princess the only ones who wish to claim the throne in place of their dying father?" (Krey)

After so many questions and so many "yes" and "no"s, we finally arrived at the vicinity of Arles City. It hasn't changed much since the last time I saw it. The walls of the city are very imposing as always and the buildings that I can see from inside the gates are as picturesque as ever. For a fortress city to have this kind of beauty is very rare indeed. There are still many carriages and travellers going to the gates to enter the city, while the number leaving are also not few.

Everyone has smiles on their faces... okay some are frowning but the majority are happy. There are also many adventurers riding their mounts or carriages to go into the forests and glades. Some of them I can see are hunting the weaker monsters in the plains while some looked heavily armed as they head in the direction of the mountains. *sigh* I just hope they don't go the the Magic Mountain Range... or what's left of it anyway.

Thinking of the state of the Magic Mountain Range when I last saw it, I can't help but make a wry smile and wonder how it is gonna restore itself.

"Are the two knucklehead related by blood?" (Krey)

Krey no longer addresses the two ruler candidates respectfully and began calling them names. Mr. Turlan shook his head, looking quite tired. Usually as the head of one of the founding aristocratic houses of Tolkium Kingdom, he would rebuke Krey for such insolence against the members of the royal family. But it looks like Mr. Turlan is still affected by his aura and it also seems that he s tired of answering Krey's questions.

Each questions that Krey asks only serves to rub salt on opened wounds and it seemed that the guilt, regret, anger and sadness that Mr. Turlan was keeping in was released in the form of weariness. But Krey is relentless, and completely doesn't care or maybe does not notice the situation of Mr. Turlan.

As a bystander, I can only pray that Krey would show some mercy. As Krey received Mr. Turlan's negative response, Krey's expressionless face finally broke out into a smile. He even chuckled for a short amount of time and I can't help but have a bad feeling. There is something different about it somehow. That laugh... it sounded mischievous, devious even!

Krey looked towards Mr. Turlan and then his eyes finally turned back into a natural light blue. The majestic pressure also disappeared as if it was never there. Filly, the one who is most affect breathed a sigh of relief. Krey leaned on the sofa but frowned for some reason. He looked at me and shrugged before leaning his head on my shoulder.

As he did that, I felt relief. Its as if a huge burden was removed from shoulders. He is finally acting like he normally does. It took me four years before I was able to instill this habit in him but it was worth it! Now every time he wishes to relax, he would always sit next to me and lean on me. Sometimes he uses my lap as a pillow as well (most of the time its Liz though)!

Haha. All my hard work paid off! I gave myself a thumbs-up in my mind but my face is calm and serene, not a single change in my expression as Krey sets his head on my shoulders. Krey then moved his glance towards Mr. Turlan and asked his final question.

"Last question~. Do you know a twenty-two year old girl named Sally?" (Krey)

This time he didn't used an icy voice nor did he used an illustrious voice. He spoke normally this time. A voice of a normal child filled with innocence and carelessness filled the carriage. Filly and Mr. Turlan are once again flabbergasted. I wonder when they are going to stop getting surprised. Krey's mood swings are really really unpredictable but I don't get shocked anymore.

Mr. Turlan slowly gave a nod and Krey smiled in satisfaction. He placed Liz on my lap and settled himself at my side. I raised my arm and let his head lie on my chest. Krey closed his eyes and no longer moved. Did he want to take a nap? As I wondered that to myself, Krey's last question caught my interest and I can't help but ask Krey in an Aura Transmission.

'Krey, who is that girl you asked the Archduke about? That Sally girl?' (Kiralne)

I felt a little embarrassed to ask Krey about this but I am really curious. Krey stirred and he opened his right eye to look at me. He then said something that left me in a situation wherein I can't help but be surprised.

'She is my junior-apprentice sister.' (Krey)

Then Krey gave out a yawn and buried his head in my chest, leaving me speechless as he continued his nap. At this time, we had already arrived at a private gate in the Southwest corner of the city walls. We are finally back at Arles City.

A/N: If you want me to change something then just comment away. As a side thought, Midterms are coming up and I need to suffer again. Seriously, my naming sense is not commendable and your opinions are very welcomed (if its something negative, please word it in a way that a fragile teenager's heart won't break)