(Author’s rant: I’m back~! As promised here is the first chapter in my dual release. Since I already gave my reasons for my lack of recent posts in my update, I’ll just skip to the chapter now. Enjoy!)

The room Kris had been directed to was a small square-shaped room with a short-legged table and two chairs in the center. Its primary use seemed to be for private meetings between officials.

After guiding him into the room, the accompanying Elf guard closed the door, and Kris could hear his footsteps walking back down the corridor. He didn’t give a specific time of when he’d be back so Kris was told to wait for an indefinite amount of time.

Settling himself into one of the two chairs, Kris reclined in the seat while resting the back of his head on the headrest so that his eyesight fell on the ceiling. His eyes wandered over to the small chandelier adorned with a Spirit magic stone that served as the room’s light source.

*tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap*

Magic stones are organic crystals extracted from the hearts of dead monsters.

Unlike the inanimate monsters Kris and his party fought in the labyrinth, the monsters that inhabit dungeons, forests, ancient ruins, and other sites are made of flesh and blood.

Though these monsters cannot use magic, the materials taken from their bodies are essential for many magical items with magic stones being the most sought after item.

After extraction, these crystals only have the capability to store mana and must be imbued with magic before they can be used. For most magic stones, only one type of magic can be infused into it; very rarely can magic stones hold more than one kind of magic, and those that can are very expensive for they come from high-ranking monsters.

Once a crystal has been infused with magic, it will take on a certain color, such as red for Fire and green for Wind. A magic stone’s attribute cannot be changed after this process.

While any kind of magic can be imbued, the quantity of mana that can be stored as well as durability is dependent on the stone’s quality. If it is of good quality, a magic stone can last hundreds of years without having to be replenished by a mage specialising in imbuing magic.

The primary appeal of using a magic stone is that one does not have to have a talent for magic. Even Kris could use one if he wanted to, but since his aptitude for magic is very poor, his mana consumption is greater than average which leads to the stone’s capacity being drained far quicker and having a shorter lifespan as a result.

On the other side of the spectrum, the Elf Savior Lily’s high aptitude for magic allows her to use the magic stone on her staff and the stone on her necklace at the same time without causing an over consumption of the stones’ mana or her own, a very rare feat among even the Elves.

The Spirit magic stone Kris was currently looking at was of relatively good quality, and only needed to be replenished once every six months. It was made so that once activated, it would radiate with light until it was turned off.

*tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap*

The background of magic stones as well as other insignificant thoughts cluttered Kris’s head as he tried to calm down.

Briefly closing and then reopening his eyes while taking a deep breath as if to clear his mind, he leaned forward and called out to his partner.

“Stryfe, is it safe to talk?” (Kris)

There was no response from the sentient sword in his right hand, and for an instant Kris thought Stryfe was still in his dormant state, but then he finally replied.

“Yes, master. I conducted a quick scan and I couldn’t find any evidence of listening-type spells being casted within the vicinity of this room. As a precaution, I also took the liberty of casting a barrier designed to disrupt any attempt to eavesdrop on our conversation.” (Stryfe)

Though they were in a private room, there was no guarantee that someone had not set up a means to listen in on their talk before they had arrived. In fact, there are multiple spells that can be used for this purpose, such as the Wind spell Whisper that carries the voices of the desired targets to the caster’s ears, or the Spirit spell Fairy’s Soul that leaves a spirit-like familiar that transmits any words spoken aloud within a specified area to it’s master. For an experienced mage, eavesdropping would be a simple task.

In order to lessen the possibility of their talk being leaked, Stryfe had set up countermeasures as soon as Kris stepped into the room. This was the reason why he did not immediately answer his master’s summons.

So in the short time we’ve been in this room, he’s already verified this room is secure enough to talk without reserve. He’s truly an amazing sword...yet he still insists on calling me master. I guess that’s fine...but him erecting a barrier reminded me of something.

“That’s another thing I had forgotten to ask before. Am I the only one who can hear you?” (Kris)

Up till now, Kris and Stryfe had only talked with each other when no one else was present. Since Stryfe had always wanted to talk in private, Kris was unsure if it was because his voice could be heard by others.

For Kris, whenever Stryfe would talk, it sounded like it was coming from his right hand and not within his head, so he was curious if his comrades could hear it, but Stryfe denied that possibility.

“No, my voice cannot be heard by anyone else but you.” (Stryfe)

“But then why the barrier?” (Kris)

“My words cannot be heard by someone else, but your words can. Wouldn’t it seem strange to a passerby if you were engaging in a conversation even though you are supposed to be the sole occupant of this room?” (Stryfe)

“...That does makes sense now that you say it.” (Kris)

Since I’m trying to keep Stryfe’s existence a secret to everyone as of now, it would indeed be weird for me to be talking to myself. My sanity would be called into question for sure, and many problems would arise that I doubt I could solve without compromising what I currently know.

Kris nodded in understandment to Stryfe’s words, but then he questioned the sword once more.

“Is it not possible to create that same black room from the other night?” (Kris)

Kris had thought Stryfe would create that same artificial space that allowed the two to talk to each other directly, but Stryfe explained why he couldn’t when he replied.

“While creating that space would be more efficient, it also raises the likelihood of someone detecting my presence. On the contrary, this barrier requires the least amount of my power so that it does not raise any alarms.” (Stryfe)

“By ‘someone’, are you referring to the other people like me?” (Kris)

According to Stryfe, there are an unknown amount of people with swords that are identical to him. Since they did not currently have a name for them, Kris and Stryfe had agreed to simply designate them as “Swordsmen.”

“Aah, though it would also be possible for your Elf comrade Lily-dono to perceive the use of my unique Shadow magic as well.” (Stryfe)

“That’s to be expected I guess.” (Kris)

Lily is the one who received the oracle of the Abyss King’s second revival so it stands to reason that she would sense it being used in the same building she was in.

With that thought, in an attempt to relax, Kris placed his elbows on the armrests of the chair and intertwined his hands so that he could rest his chin on them.

*tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap*

“...Are you alright Kris?” (Stryfe)

After a few seconds of silence while Kris was lost in his thoughts, Stryfe suddenly asked that question with a hint of worry in his voice.

“Hmm? What do you mean?” (Kris)

Uncertain of what Stryfe meant, Kris tilted his head in confusion and awaited an explanation.

“You’ve been tapping the sole of your foot against the ground for some time now. Are you perhaps anxious about something?” (Stryfe)

When Kris looked down at his feet, he indeed found the back of his right foot tapping against the ground in a steady rhythm. Apparently, he had been too focused on their dialogue that he had not even noticed.

*tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap* *tap*

Realizing the state of unease his body was in, Kris let out an exhausted laugh as he responded.

“...Heheh, I guess I am. It’s just that I realized something as soon as I walked into the room.” (Kris)

He paused for a moment and scanned the room with a vigilant expression before continuing.

“This place is perfect for an ambush, isn’t it?” (Kris)

As far as Kris could tell, there was not a single person within the immediate proximity of this room.

On his way here, he had also noticed that all of the rooms surrounding his were vacant. In addition, his comrades were in a different part of the building altogether, so he couldn’t rely on their help right away if an enemy were to attack him.

“That may be how it appears, but I do not believe they will attack you here.” (Stryfe)

However, Stryfe shot down his worries after understanding the reason for Kris’s anxiety.

“From what I gathered before and during the hearing, the public sees you as its newest hero. If any attempt were to be made on your life now, there will be an uproar, and countless investigations will be made to identify the culprit. That is why I think it is safe to assume that our enemies have come to the same conclusion, and so they will wait for a better scenario.” (Stryfe)

Just as Stryfe said, Kris’s name has become famous as the one who slayed the Abyss King single-handedly. If something were to happen to him, the populace would not stay quiet and the governments would come under scrutiny. Even if the “Swordsmen” have a hold on the national leaders, it’s not as if they can silence the protests of the people unless they reveal themselves as the conspirators.

After operating in secret for centuries, that would be a very foolish move. Stryfe does have a point.

With one less worry to think about, Kris exhaled in relief.

“I agree as well. I also heard you say ‘during the hearing’. I didn’t know you were awake at that time.” (Kris)

“In that state I can neither use my powers nor can I converse with you, but my consciousness remains aware so that I can be ready to assist you if needed.” (Stryfe)

“I see. Well, that certainly saves me from having to repeat everything that was said.” (Kris)

“Indeed...and I must say you are unexpectedly very good at lying, master.” (Stryfe)

When Stryfe said those words with a somewhat feeling of admiration mixed in, Kris showed a troubled smile.

“Thanks...I guess. It’s not exactly something to boast of.” (Kris)

“Even so, I doubt there are many people who can keep their composure under such strenuous circumstances...but it seems you still have problems when dealing with women. Ufufufu~.” (Stryfe)

Letting out his usual strange laugh, Stryfe’s teasing caused Kris’s face to cramp.

“I’ve especially grown fond of that White Wolf girl, Eliza-dono. She’s tries oh so hard to steal the heart of the man she loves, but to no avail. Her straightforward nature is so adorable. It’s a shame her love continues to be unrequited, right~?” (Stryfe)

...What the hell has gotten into you?

Retorting to himself about this odd change of personality, Kris responded to Stryfe’s provocation with an annoyed voice.

“I don’t recall my love life being the topic of discussion at the moment.” (Kris)

“My my, why so defensive~? You know, I’d be happy to help if you ask--” (Stryfe)

“Rejected.” (Kris)

Kris flat-out refused Stryfe’s unrelated offer, but his serious response only served to fuel the sentient weapon’s mischievousness.

“Aww~, and why not?” (Stryfe)

“Do you want the long answer, or the short answer?” (Kris)

“...That’s just rude.” (Stryfe)

For some reason, Kris could imagine from those words that Stryfe would be pouting if he was in his materialized form.

“No offense but I feel that if I followed romantic advice from a talking sword that once belonged to the most hated being in the world, it wouldn’t end well for me.” (Kris)

“...What are you insinuating?” (Stryfe)

“......” (Kris)

“You don’t think I’d ever suggest to ‘take her by force’ or something like that, right?” (Stryfe)

“......” (Kris)

“...Right?” (Stryfe)

“......” (Kris)

“......” (Stryfe)

“......” (Kris)

“This silence is painful desu!” (Stryfe)

Though a strange word Kris hadn’t heard before was mixed in, he ignored it and instead questioned the now dejected Stryfe with a slightly wearied voice.

“Anyways, why would you care about something like that all of a sudden?” (Kris)

“...Fufufu, while I am still grateful that you chose to take on this difficult task, I want you to be happy as well. I figured it’s the least I can do for getting you involved in my affairs. Isn’t falling in love one of the best forms of happiness for mortals?” (Stryfe)

Despite saying that with a playful tone, the sincerity in his words reached Kris, who chuckled as a result.

“Hehe, well you’re not exactly wrong, but save that for another time okay? We still need to talk about the hearing before the guard comes back.” (Kris)

“Ah, you’re right. Very well, I’ll let you off the hook for now.” (Stryfe)

Seemingly giving up on trying to broach the subject further, Stryfe’s words became serious the next time he spoke.

“So, what was your impression from their discussions?” (Stryfe)

In response to Stryfe’s question, Kris closed his eyes as he replayed the contents of the hearing in his head.

“The High Elf council members responded exactly as how I predicted they would. The Elves have always exercised caution when dealing with matters related to the Abyss King. I knew beforehand that they would be suspicious if I said I killed him with a strange sword that granted me unknown power. That might also be the reason why I was told to wait here.” (Kris)

Making him stay in one place until they verified that Stryfe wasn’t a threat would not be unusual for the Elves was what Kris had inferred.

“The same could be said for the Blacksmith Elders. Gale once told me that Dwarves will only trust weapons they make themselves so I had a feeling they wouldn’t readily accept you without inspecting you first. I assume they will want to have a look at you after the Purification ceremony.” (Kris)

As if it just occurred to him, Kris furrowed his eyebrows and asked the question that had bothered him when he was first notified of the ceremony.

“Stryfe, will you be okay during the ceremony?” (Kris)

Though Kris knew that the type of magic Stryfe uses is unique, it was also a variation of Shadow magic, which could be called the “natural enemy” of Spirit magic. As such, he feared the Purification magic used in the ceremony might cause problems or even harm Stryfe.

However, his worries were for naught.

“Don’t worry, no amount of Purification will ever affect me, nor will it raise any alarms. As long as I’m within my dormant state, I can not be affected by any kind of magic.” (Stryfe)

“...And what if it's a Swordsman conducting the ceremony?” (Kris)

If someone wielding the same power as Stryfe were to perform a Purification spell, Kris doubted that either of them could survive unscathed, but again Stryfe rejected his concern.

“It still would not work. Despite my lack of memories, I do know that once a host passes the Trial, I cannot be removed from them under any circumstances. The only way that I can be extracted from my master’s body is after they are deceased. I assume it is the same for the others.” (Stryfe)

“I see…” (Kris)

So Stryfe can only be taken away from me after I’m dead, and the other Swordsmen have the same condition...which means, one way or another, when we clash it will inevitably become a fight to the death, huh.

He shook his head to clear away any thoughts on future conflicts.

Though Stryfe’s words had not entirely erased his anxiety, Kris knew that it was better to trust his partner than to worry about things that have not come to pass.

“Well, getting back to the joint council’s reactions, I couldn’t read the Alpha Drake’s expression at all, but that’s to be expected. Drakes are taught at an early age to keep their emotions hidden. After meeting him, it makes sense that his daughter would be just like him.” (Kris)

Though he may forget it at times, Kris was reminded of Sylvia’s status as the Drake Princess after seeing her father, the Alpha Drake Osiris Longhorn. His expressionless face and indifferent attitude was practically a mirror image to how Sylvia acted not too long ago.

However, even though he lacked the heightened senses of other races, the sheer power that emanated from the one holding the title of “the Strongest Drake” was clearly discerned by Kris. It forced him to realize the current difference in strength between him and the Alpha Drake.

Perhaps with Stryfe I could manage, but I hope it never has to come to that.

Slightly shuddering at the possibility of having to face such a fearsome opponent, Kris continued his thoughts on the joint council’s behavior.

“In regards to King Leopold and the Council of Elders...well, that’s what has me at a loss.” (Kris)

“Eh? How so?” (Stryfe)

Stryfe asked inquisitively.

“Though it’s just my opinion, I felt they accepted my story too easily.” (Kris)

“Is not it because they trust you?” (Stryfe)

Kris shook his head at Stryfe’s reply before explaining his reasoning.

“No, I don’t think it’s that simple. Despite what I said earlier about the Elves being cautious about the Abyss King, the truth would be that the Humans and Beastmen are even more so.” (Kris)

Kris knew that for both races whose countries were invaded, the mental scars left behind after the Abyss King’s campaign of destruction have yet to fade. Therefore, it stands to reason that the leaders of those races would take matters regarding the infamous tyrant very seriously.

“I was prepared to face speculation from them regarding you, but that argument was, for lack of a better word, brushed aside. For what reason, I’m not too sure, but I also couldn’t help but sense a strange air around them throughout the hearing.” (Kris)

Recalling the odd sensation he felt coming from the Human and Beastman leaders, he closed his eyes so that he could accurately describe it.

“If I had to put it into a single word, it would be...fear.” (Kris)

“Fear?” (Stryfe)

“Yeah. I only sensed it because I had experienced similar behavior numerous times as an adventurer.” (Kris)

Normally if a person is afraid, their body will show signs of distress, such as sweating, accelerated heart rate, as well as other symptoms. Though it is possible to train one’s mental and physical fortitude to a certain degree so that fear can no longer be seen visually, suppressing such a fundamental emotion can be extremely difficult to maintain at all times.

For adventurers, the methods of controlling one’s emotions can be vital in a fight so many of them train hard to accomplish this, and Kris was no exception. He also learned to perceive when others feel fear, most likely as a result of past opponents losing their composure after witnessing his inhuman strength.

“Couldn’t it be they’re merely apprehensive of me?” (Stryfe)

Stryfe was still an unknown entity to them so their anxiety would not be unfounded, but Kris shook his head as he answered.

“No, I’m confident I would have perceived it if we were the source of their dread. In addition, if they were so frightened by you, they would not have put up opposition against destroying you right? It would have been in their best interest to just extract you from me, or even kill me to get rid of you if that were the case.” (Kris)

“Hmm, interesting. I could only use my sense of hearing at the time so I was not able to observe them myself. Even so, I don’t doubt your words.” (Stryfe)

“Well, I wish I could say for certain what exactly they were fearful of but--” (Kris)

“It must be an effect of a Swordsman’s influence.” (Stryfe)

Stryfe’s statement interrupted Kris mid-sentence as if it was matter of fact.

“How are you so sure?” (Kris)

Kris asked his partner for an explanation without hiding the skepticism in his voice.

“Though I may not have any knowledge of their origins, I presume that the leaders of the Human and Beastman countries are of relatively high caliber. Could such people possibly let their trepidation show as you say they did unless they were under duress?” (Stryfe)

After listening to Stryfe’s reasoning, Kris thought over the backgrounds of the leaders in question.

The Human King Leopold V served in the military for thirty years before taking the throne, and it’s easy to surmise that the members of the Council of Elders were all seasoned warriors at one point in their lives...it does seem hard to believe that an ordinary person could cause their emotional restraints to waver.

“...So you’re saying they’re being forcibly manipulated?” (Kris)

“Aah, that is my opinion. It could be they have relatives that are being threatened, or they are overwhelmed by the sheer power of the Swordsmen.” (Stryfe)

“Is that so? I guess that makes sense…” (Kris)

While Kris did not know the familial relationships of the Beastmen leaders besides Izabella, he recalled that King Leopold has a daughter who is a few years younger than him, Princess Elena Eve Leopold. If she were taken hostage, Kris had no doubt that the King could not act against the perpetrators without risking her life.

Technically a Swordsman himself, Kris also knew firsthand just how devastating his powers can be. While his limits had yet to be tested, he could only imagine what the amount of destruction the Swordsmen could accomplish after decades of using the sword’s power.

Reclining back in his chair, Kris let an exhausted sigh leak from his lips before speaking.

“Haaah...though it’s not verifiable proof yet, it’s a start at least.” (Kris)

Until now, there was no feasible evidence that the national leaders were under the influence of the other Swordsmen, but for Kris, Stryfe’s insight offered a reasonable suspicion to support the claim.

“At this point, we know next to nothing about the identities of the Swordsmen or how strong their hold over the governments are. Whether it was intentional or not, we now have an indication that King Leopold and the Council of Elders are being coerced.” (Kris)

“Are you proposing that we investigate them first?” (Stryfe)

“Yes. I’ve met King Leopold before, and now that Lady Izabella is an acquaintance as well, they might be willing to lend us a hand if we can convince them to trust us. It could even guide us to the Swordsmen themselves.” (Kris)

Stryfe did not immediately reply to his suggestion, which gave Kris the impression that he might disagree, but then Stryfe gave his own query.

“Are you sure you are prepared for that? At your current level, even if it was a one on one duel, you cannot win against a Swordsman. I’m afraid that is the truth. Knowing that, will you still proceed?” (Stryfe)

To Stryfe’s questioning, Kris let out a bitter laugh as he replied.

“You say that like I’ve got a choice. While I may be in the dark on a lot of things, there is one thing I’m sure of--either they find me or I find them. Whichever comes first depends on my next move.” (Kris)

“But--” (Stryfe)

“Don’t get me wrong, I’m not looking for a fight. I already judged from your words that I’m not strong enough to face them now. However, I can’t prepare myself for a fight if I don’t even know what I’m up against.” (Kris)

During his tenure as an adventurer, Kris had always sought to find as much information on his opponent as possible. It didn’t matter whether they were beast, monster--or human.

In other words, the phrase “knowing is half the battle” isn’t an exaggeration for him.

“In addition, we can’t assume they will keep quiet forever. The longer we wait, the more opportunities we give them to act against me or those close to me.” (Kris)

All of the people Kris cared about flashed in his head as a resolute expression spread over his face.

“I know it sounds selfish but I won’t stand by and wait for them hurt my friends or family. However, I won’t actively seek them out until I am ready. Can you accept this proposal?” (Kris)

“There’s no point in asking me remember? I cannot defy your will.” (Stryfe)

“Even so, there’s no point to a partnership if both people aren’t of the same mindset right?” (Kris)

When Kris still pressed him for an answer, Stryfe replied with a voice dyed in resignation.

“...Very well. I also approve. Do you plan on leaving right away?” (Stryfe)

“After the ceremony, yes.” (Kris)

“Then that leads me to my next concern--you are going to involve your friends, correct?” (Stryfe)

His query carried with it a sense of finality in that Kris had to make his decision here and now.

“I will only tell them everything you’ve told me, as well as everything we have discussed up until this point. They’ve earned my trust so I won’t betray it.” (Kris)

“However,” he continued.

“I will not force them to accompany me. To follow me or not is a choice they will have to make for themselves.” (Kris)

“...I understand.” (Stryfe)

Stryfe gave his affirmation, but then he spoke with a worried voice once more.

“However, there is the possibility that not only will your comrades not follow you, they may even turn against you due to your outlandish accusations. I do not wish for that to happen, but in the worst case scenario, what will you do?” (Stryfe)

In spite of all the discussions that had just taken place, their claims of the national leaders being under the control of a shady group of people with unknown powers is merely speculation at best with no sound evidence.

In the end, the choices of the other Saviors will be dictated by how much trust and loyalty they have in Kris.

Kris hesitated for an instant before responding in a pained voice.

“...Then I will have no choice but to defeat them.” (Kris)

Stryfe was taken aback by Kris’s cold-hearted declaration.

“...Are you certain that you can fight them without being conflicted in doing so?” (Stryfe)

“Of course I’d be conflicted. It’s something I want to avoid at all costs...but I cannot yield in this matter. Once the world has been set straight, I will accept whatever punishment I am given by them.” (Kris)

Though he had a sullen expression, his words expressed his resolve to follow through with their plan.

“Kris…--” (Stryfe)

Stryfe made a sound like he was about to say more, but then he cut himself off before giving an alert.

“The guard is on his way back. I’m disabling the barrier and returning to my dormant state. I will continue to remain on standby for the time being.” (Stryfe)

Kris was surprised momentarily by the sudden warning, but he quickly recovered and issued his order.

“Alright. We’ll continue this after the ceremony. Please do your best to warn me of anything strange and I’ll do the same.” (Kris)

“Understood. Good luck master.” (Stryfe)

“Same to you.” (Kris)

Not long after saying a temporary farewell to each other, a knock was heard on the door and the Elf guard from earlier opened it while calling to Kris.

“Sir Arondight, the preparations for the Purification ceremony have been completed. Please follow me to the ceremony chamber.” (Guard)

“Very well. Please lead the way.” (Kris)

“Yes sir.” (Guard)

Kris stood from his chair and stepped out of the room. The Elf guard closed the door behind him and began walking down the opposite end of the corridor with Kris on his right side.

(Author: This is the last of the...“talking” chapters I guess? The action picks up next time so I hope to see you there! - Brickpool)