February 8, 1615 Central Calendar, 06:53

Tranquila District, Runepolis

At the end of one of the streets in this part of Runepolis’ Student Town, located some distance from the Runepolis Magic Academy’s main campus, stood a place of worship dedicated to Saoirse, the Enysfalian Goddess of Water. Standing near the entryway to the edifice, beyond the cobblestone fence that separated the impressively-sized temple and its serene courtyard from the rest of the Imperial Capital’s renowned Student Town, a trio of young maidens could be seen observing with idle fascination the steady flow of people from all ages entering at a leisure pace.

They were there to wait for another group of people who will arrive shortly according to their agreed timetable.

“Hey, did he send a message yet?” the most prim and proper-looking of the three turned and asked one of her friends in order to break the silence among them.

“He did,” quietly answered a certain blonde girl with an appearance no less enchanting than the former, but with a demure air that gave off an aura of modesty rather than the usual arrogance and confidence associated with high society nobility. One cannot be blamed for mistaking her to be a part of them and then being surprised when interacting with this girl.

Her gaze was fixated on the glowing screen of a grimoire in her hand for a moment before turning to look at the temple’s gate with a searching look.

“He says that they will be there in a few minutes.”

“Wonderful! I was worried about the time we would spend waiting here. Anna, Nadia, are you sure we aren’t here too early…?” the third girl with red hair arranged in a crown braid whined, petulantly resting her head on Nadia’s shoulder. The blonde didn’t seem to mind her antics, laughing softly at the touch.

Similarly, the one called Anna, the silver-haired Lady Annette Pendragon of Runepolis, giggled underneath an exclusively-tailored scarf neatly wrapped around her neck. Wearing the Pendragon family’s renowned cerulean color as part of her attire, she stood out more than any girl in this town with a beauty that made it difficult for the common people to approach or speak to her. And yet, the sight of this young noblewoman casually chatting with her two acquaintances, as if it was completely natural, gave off a sense of wonder to the templegoers who happened to lay their eyes on them.

“Well, our friend here is worried so much that she’s going to be late,” she said in a teasing tone, but quickly clarified. “Not that I mind, though, it’s nice to be able to go outside and stretch our legs a bit, isn’t it? I feel like I’ve been too cooped up inside the mansion as of late, with nothing else to do but study…”

“Heee…” the redhead grinned.

“Hush, cut it, Sofia. You know I need some refreshing too.”

One might think that being born an elite, Annette Pendragon would be expected to lead a strict lifestyle; however, she was still fourteen years old girl and her father, the Good Duke, was in perfect health to do his duties. It was for this reason that he often encouraged his only daughter to venture outside, form close bonds with her peers, and revel in the pleasures of youth. Being a filial daughter aside, Annette was more than happy to oblige, particularly during the trip to the Temple of Saoirse alongside her two cherished friends. The transformation in the usual scenery left her feeling invigorated, and as she explored this part of the district which she seldom frequented, she also got to know more about the land that the Emperor had entrusted her father to lead.

Without realizing it, by visiting the temple and mingling herself with the commoners, Annette had just accomplished one of the visions of Duke Pendragon. And by paying respects to Saoirse, a deity originally foreign to Runepolis, this occasion also carried a strong political statement whether it was intentional or not.

This magnificent temple was made mostly of cobblestone, but with a distinct style of architecture that combined the Caelian style and that of Enysfal, the place far to the south where Saoirse’s cult originated. It occupied an impressively-sized lot, built through the efforts of the Enysfalian community that arrived in Runepolis in the past. Since then, the temple’s traditions were warmly welcomed by the Runepolians for so long as a god has their back, the god will have their altar.

The events happening in the Middle Lands for at least the last four millennia had made it such that its civilization believes that the gods sent the August Star of Heaven to free them from the Light-Winged Devils in the distant past. Therefore, the citizens of the Holy Milishial Empire believe that if a deity exists, then that deity must have a hand in sending the August Star of Heaven too. This belief system of Middle Lands omnism, acknowledgment and tolerance for any god regardless they are their patron or not, and whether they came from Middle Lands or not, is one of the defining traits that united the Milishian superculture. No pious Milishian will brand someone as a heretic unless they openly attack other people using religion as a justification, worshipping the Ancient Sorcerous Empire, and the most heinous of them all, attack other people using the worship of the Ancient Sorcerous Empire as justification. Hence, things like advocating genocidal rampage against an enemy and unnecessary cruelty were considered by society to be a form of devil-worship; an affront to their religion.

Thus, Annette’s visit as a member of the powerful (albeit dwindling) House of Pendragon had further endeared her and by extension the Good Duke to the people here, furthering Runepolis’ reputation as a welcoming place for those who wanted to seek their dreams in this city.

“Passing over two mountains in a single gallop,” just like an old Milishian adage.

Today, from one end to the other, the street where the temple was located was decorated in soft blue. Banners lined up at even intervals on the sidewalks fluttered gently with the morning breeze, while strings with magic lanterns linked the ivory-painted buildings standing on each side. The sky was clear, as if the heavens itself approved of the proceedings of this celebration, and even those who see another deity as their patron could be seen here and there. The stalls that had been set up along the street, meant for the post-worship community event, were still covered in cloths and will not be open for at least one hour later.

“This temple looked nice, isn’t it?” Annette asked them.

“Mm. I don’t remember ever seeing a Temple of Sa-wo-eer-shye in my hometown, so this is my first time…”

Nadia nodded and muttered in agreement, her native Zaftran accent leaking slightly over her otherwise standard Milishian as she struggled in spelling that name. Seeing this, Sofia kindly took the initiative to correct her.

“No, Nadia. That’s not how you spell the Goddess’ name. She is pronounced SEER-shuh.”

“Ah! Oh…” Nadia blushed.

“Hehe. Can’t have you mispronounce Meteos’ patron deity in front of him, now can we?” Annette chuckled, making the adorable blonde’s red tinge on her face deepened.

Since Nadia was from Rusalka on the east coast and Saoirse is a deity from Enysfal, a region on the west coast that was separated from each other by a tall mountain range in the interior, it was quite natural for her to not know how to correctly pronounce her name since a cultural group’s deity in the Holy Milishial Empire tends to stay in one place. However, exceptions can be seen in the culturally diverse Runepolis. Perhaps there are worshippers of Saoirse in Nadia’s hometown, but maybe their number is too small for having a temple of their own.

Despite the butterflies inside her stomach, Nadia was able to digest that information well.

“I-I see… Seer-shuh, Saoirse.”

“Mm-hmm! That’s right,” Annette nodded, her blue eyes—an oceanic shade similar to that of Meteos’, Nadia thought—looked at her with a clear glint of understanding and pride in them.

“Ah, if only they were here already,” Sofia quipped from the side.

“Now, now, let’s don’t worry about that. Thinking about waiting will only make things longer and more unbearable. What about… hmm, what should we do in the meantime?”

“Wander around?”

“Umm… I don’t think we should do that,” Nadia decided to answer. “…Maybe they will be here soon.”

Annette and Sofia looked at each other and smiled.

“If you say so.”

“Fine with me.”

The time was just two minutes past seven o’clock when the three of them noticed and turned in the direction of the incoming presence of a professor that they were grown to be fast friends with. And behind the waving Robin was her two apprentices and a pair of unfamiliar strangers walking at a more relaxed pace.

“Professor!” Sofia exclaimed as the three proceeded to straighten their backs and politely bow at her in unison.

“Ahh, morning, girls!” Robin grinned. “It’s nice to see you on such a fine holiday. Isn’t that right, my apprentices?”

Walman nodded in exasperation as he glanced at Robin, but the other boy calmly answered with a simple word.

“Yes.”

“!”

That was the voice of someone who occupied a special place in Nadia’s heart; someone whom just hearing his name being mentioned at her, knowing him, and remembering his face, let alone talking with him, gave her a feeling of warmth inside. This young man standing beside Robin was none other than the very first person whom she ever had a crush on. Her silver lightning.

Until now, she cannot pinpoint the exact reason why she was so attracted to him; was it because of his quiet personality? Or perhaps his looks? How he looked so unique from other people with that shade of hair, even after knowing Annette? How he was especially kind and considerate of her that he never showed anyone else? Or maybe it was simply his voice that made her feel comfortable whenever they talked. She just did. It could be anything, or it could be nothing. Perhaps she didn’t need a reason, after all.

However, no matter how often they talked with each other through grimoire and the fact he still sounded the same as she remembered, there was something about his voice that made Nadia’s heart skip a beat upon hearing it in person this time. Then she turned to look at Meteos in the eyes.

Within just a few months of not seeing each other, Meteos looked different from what Nadia had remembered. While they used to have roughly the same height, he now towered over her by several centimeters. His developing facial features, too, had lost some of their baby fat, revealing a slightly sharper countenance that now more fittingly matched the bright, intelligent glint of his eyes. It’s like all the sense of familiarity that she had gained during the last time she met him was being reset by the new air that he exuded, leaving Nadia, who was finally able to talk to him without getting flustered all the time, finding herself a blushing girl again who felt like she is getting to know Meteos for the first time. Where once he had been a cute boy, he was now downright handsome.

While it’s not only him who undergoes physical changes as Walman standing right beside him also looked different from before their early graduation from the RMA, Nadia’s attention was on Meteos most of the time, finding herself lost in his presence.

Meteos stepped forward and greeted them with a friendly smile, “Good morning to you all, Nadia, Sofia, and… Lady Annette Pendragon.”

The last part, uttered with a cheeky tug at one corner of his lips, caused the mentioned noblewoman to shrug playfully and play along with the other silverette’s almost faux courtesy. This greeting clearly ignored the established social hierarchy of this country and was a playful verbal jab to her house’s reputation when it came to interaction with common citizens. It was not out of malice since Annette had gleaned from their previous interactions that Meteos’ behavior was not particularly averse to aristocracy and rather had a tendency to carelessly blurt out his thoughts on something. It was a slightly annoying quirk of his that could have caused trouble if they were to be taken seriously, but Annette took this in good humor and even chuckled a little at how refreshingly bold he was.

The girls returned his greeting with a wave, including Nadia who found it hard to maintain her composure while feeling her heart pound like mad in her chest.

“By the way, girls. Let me introduce you to my colleague from work. This is Arthur Arkland,” Robin said, gesturing to the tall man who gave them a silent nod.

“!”

While Annette gave him a cordial response and Nadia was already a bit disoriented, Sofia took a good look at the verdette before her eyes widened in surprise. His mature build, broad shoulders, and sharp look that graced his features… this bird beastman’s appearance is quite an eye-catcher of the strong and silent variety, it seemed. Definitely someone that the gossiping ladies of the neighborhood and some would dub as this generation’s contender for their made-up title of the ‘Nation’s Boyfriend,’ if only he didn’t spend his days working in a place as secluded (for Runepolis standards) as MOASEC. The feeling of missing someone like him for so long will be as hilariously great as when the previous ‘holder’ of that title—a rather pretty boy—was officially off the market… and this person also happened to be someone working in the same place as Arthur.

Once an accident, twice a coincidence, and three times a pattern. If this trend continues, someone will eventually draw a conclusion that the MOASEC is actually a hideout for attractive men.

Which might be good for recruitment prospects…?

“Hello…” she managed to utter a shy greeting.

Again, silence. Not even a faint grunt came out from Arthur’s tightly-closed lips, but at least a faint motion of nodding his head showed that he had just acknowledged her.

‘Awww~~~’ the young redhead inwardly gushed, her freckled face was adorned with a shade of pink as she not-so-subtle ogled him.

Robin continued. “And this is his twin sister, Morgan.”

“Nice to meet you, everyone.”

“Likewise,” Annette smiled.

“So… How do you do? We don’t make you wait for too long, right?”

“Worry not, Professor,” the young noblewoman answered. “This visit is a delightful one, even as we only simply admire the townscape and the temple’s scenery.”

“That’s good to hear. By the way, I’m glad that you can come on this auspicious day. For that, thank you so much,” said Meteos.

Sofia poked at Nadia’s arm, startling her. Then, realizing what Meteos had said, she assumed that they wanted her to answer, trying to formulate something in her mind before stammering out a reply.

“O-of course…! Umm… I m-mean, this day means so much for you… isn’t that right?”

“……Ah, yeah… yes, it is.”

The slowly growing fascination he felt towards Nadia was beginning to double as Meteos watched her fumble with her words in replying to him. That moment of vulnerability displayed by the shy girl before him brought out a sense of tenderness in him that he was only able to express with a gradually widening, but gentle smile. Not only Nadia has a brilliant mind, an admirable goal, and a beautiful voice, but she was also impossibly adorable in his eyes. This he realized.

In response to the silver’s warm gaze, the gold fidgeted, but then began to slowly smile as well, eliciting a brief chuckle from Meteos in front of her before turning to face the rest of the group.

“Seeing that it’s almost time for the ceremony, I suggest that we quickly enter?” he offered to everyone present’s agreement.

Robin nodded with a snicker and let the boy take the lead of the group toward the temple. While walking, Morgan tapped her shoulder with a curious look.

“Hey… Robin? What’s the story with those two kids?”

The professor chuckled amusedly. “You see, the blonde girl, Nadia, obviously has a crush on Meteos. I was there when they first met, and she already blushing like mad when she laid her eyes on him for the first time.”

“Oh, that’s cute. But what about Meteos himself? Please tell me he felt the same way about the girl,” Morgan replied, a bit too giddily.

These words made Robin ponder to herself. When she first mentioned about Nadia to Meteos, he was interested in her talent, not Nadia as a person. However, as they continued to see each other, the silverette began to warm up in his behavior around her; sort of mannerisms that would make Nadia flush red in the face and act awkwardly in response. Robin thought he could have at least some signs of affection toward the girl. That didn’t even mention all sorts of gifts and support that Meteos readily gave. So far, Meteos kept vague in his motivation for doing all those things…

“Honestly… I don’t really know. But deep down, I hope so.”

“Ahhh…” Morgan sighed but felt a twinge of interest. If even his own mentor was still looking for some sign of reciprocating feelings, then what could she, a stranger who just met him this morning, can do.

That conversation between the ladies was of no interest to Arthur who was walking at the tail end. It was then that his wandering gaze caught sight of a familiar face emerging amidst the tightening crowd of people just before the front door of the temple. It seemed that the person somehow realized that they were being stared at and turned back, giving him a knowing smile before resuming their walk inside the temple.

“………”

While impressed at that person’s senses, Arthur couldn’t help but roll his eyes considering who that person was.

And with that, the snowy exterior changed into the warm, solemn worship hall of the Temple of Saoirse.

…………

07:41

Amidst the templegoers, the group found a spot where they knelt on the wooden floor, clasped their hands, and prayed along the mellifluous, almost singing-like chant of the High Druid of Saoirse with reverence until the end. Even for those who did not see Saoirse as their patron deity, this scene was one where they can find some godly leisure time from their busy lives. They joined together as one congregation, all kneeling and praying as well. Some prayed for personal wishes while others prayed for the safety of their loved ones. While they had some differences in opinion and belief, everyone came together as one people in prayer toward the Water Goddess.

‘Great Saoirse, are you as merciful as Mithra?’

Such are the thoughts of one Nadia Smirnova as she found herself kneeling among the congregation in the ritual. The blue banners that hung from the ceiling, the lovely chanting, and on top of all that, the redwood effigy of Saoirse, a humanoid female with feathered wings jutting out of either side of her head and a fish’s tail, gazing at the gathered worshippers like a gentle mother watching over her children. It felt so peaceful. She could feel her stress and anxiety being washed away from her heart. It reminded Nadia of the warmth of the Sun Goddess Mithra’s sanctuary back in her hometown Zaftra, which was equally comforting. And now that she was here, wishing Grandmother Tatyana, Sister Aelita, and her friends back home good fortune all year round, Nadia offered a prayer.

The ceremony was long, but the High Druid soon concluded with a profound prayer and benediction in the revered Goddess’ name, signifying the culmination of the ritual part of the day. The attendees subsequently started rising from their spots, gravitating towards each other to exchange greetings and talks, be it with familiar companions, relatives, or even strangers, before proceeding with the next agenda planned for the day. However, when Nadia turned her gaze to the right side, she found Meteos, still immersed in the whole thing. With his eyes closed and his head bent low, he seemed to not acknowledge his surroundings.

Nadia kept watching over her crush in silence for a few more moments, her countenance bearing a hint of worry. Yet, as Meteos remained rooted to his spot, she felt the urge to offer him a gentle reminder that the ceremony had come to an end. Though apprehensive of the norms observed by the worshippers of this temple in doing what can be said to be interrupting someone’s prayer, she approached him and laid a hand on his shoulder, gently shaking it several times in the hope to nudge him out of his silence.

“Umm……” she began with hesitation. A part of her was already feeling embarrassed at herself, dreading what the silver-haired boy’s reaction would be if he realized that she has approached him to disturb his moment of prayer. The rest of the group, even the adults, simply watched in silence and waiting, never once raising their voices to stop her.

“………”

Meteos slowly opened his eyes and looked at the source of the shaking. When their gazes met for a second, Nadia was astonished. For that fleeting moment, her crush’s cerulean eyes looked tired, bearing an uncanny resemblance to how her grandmother’s gaze usually looked like. But as quickly as that tiredness manifested, it dissipated, replaced by a youthful glint that was more befitting of his age.

“Ah…”

He glanced around the hall, checking his surroundings, before his gaze eventually settled back upon Nadia.

“Umm… s-sorry, if I interrupted you…” the blonde apologized.

“No, no,” Meteos reassured her with a smile as he finally stood up like the other templegoers. “Thank you for the reminder. I was… lost in thought for a moment there.”

“Is that so…” Nadia nodded, but she was still unsure.

“It’s nothing serious, don’t worry.”

“Okay.”

Seeing that her crush didn’t seem to be offended by her gesture, Nadia finally felt a sense of relief.

Meteos spoke again. “After this, let’s go to the community hall at the back of the temple for the next event. After that, if you want, we can go around the street, visiting the stalls and the like…”

Nadia smiled. “That would be great. But this time I’m paying for my things as well.”

“Oh?”

When she processed what she had just blurted out, Nadia gasped and blushed. Did she just give a witty remark? To Meteos of all people!?

She can’t believe this realization, but at the same time, it was a sign that she was becoming more and more at ease with the silver-haired boy. It was such a silly thing, but it felt like she was already beginning to feel more comfortable around him beyond long-range talks on grimoire. It made her smile, even while blushing, at the thought.

Her face reddened further when Meteos chuckled in amusement.

“I won’t stop you, then, if it doesn’t bother you.”

“O-of course not…” she stammered.

“Then, let’s?”

“Mm!”

‘So caring…… I do like her, am I?’

As Meteos was looking at the pretty face of the girl in front of him, he thought to himself. A profound emotion stirred within, gradually eroding the lingering doubts that had plagued his mind. Perhaps this was the answer to the question of whether he truly harbored a genuine attraction to her as a person. Now, confronted with the possibility, Meteos found no reason to resist the tide of his feeling toward the fair-haired beauty. Everything seemed to have fallen into place with a resounding click, and he felt compelled to follow the current of his feelings.

Moreover, there were still four more years before they reached the age of eighteen, during which many events would surely unfold. If their connection thrived and he really found himself falling for her, it would be a positive outcome. Yet, if this inclination was merely a fleeting infatuation that led to a dead end, Meteos could tell the girl to stay at arm’s length during that time… but despite this option, he felt a growing reluctance to see something like that come to pass. In fact, he was looking forward to seeing this relationship between himself and her flourish and deepen. He would like to see how being in her presence could change his heart, how much more of him could he give to this girl, all while staying respectful, of course.

‘Let her be my sun…’ an even deeper part of him whispered, adding a slight weight to his chest.

He sighed inwardly. The version of himself in the times immediately after being reincarnated wouldn’t even care about such a thing. Now as he lived this second life by connecting to more people and forming bonds, he became more conscious and aware of his own feelings. But it still made him wonder where did it come from.

Sometimes, Meteos Roguerider’s extreme focus on his self-imposed mission caused him to overlook the significance of experiencing feelings as a fundamental aspect of being human. Nevertheless, Meteos, too, was a human being. The capacity to feel was what distinguished sentient beings such as humanity from monsters and self-proclaimed perfect lifeforms, and it was a fact worth celebrating, as it was evident that despite its flaws, mankind was truly created in the most excellent form.

He somewhat reluctantly turned his gaze from Nadia to look at the rest of the group who seemed to be engrossed in a hushed conversation amongst themselves, possibly to avoid being overheard by the two of them.

“Hm?”

“I am ninety percent sure that he really likes her,” Walman concluded with Sofia, Annette, Robin, and Morgan nodding in agreement.

“So he’s not as dense to the girl’s feelings as I thought,” Morgan commented, causing Robin to raise an eyebrow at him.

“Mm-hmm.”

“Thoughts, Arthur?”

“Don’t ask me questions. Keep me out of this.”

“Awwww…”

“Whatever they are talking about?” Meteos muttered.

“…We should tell them it’s time to go.”

“Um, that’s right.”

While Nadia walked over to inform the group about the next agenda as told by Meteos, the reincarnator turned to face the statue of Saoirse, his hands clenching involuntarily.

‘Goddess… even if in the end my life is just a divine plaything… an entertainment for you to laugh and mock at… is it wrong that I desire to be happy? Even if one half of my happiness comes from rebelling against a certain fate? For that matter… my heart and actions are utterly unclouded… If you see my actions as justice, then please do not let my heart be led astray, but if not, then forgive me, for I am a terrible sinner!’

Meteos Roguerider’s prayer to Saoirse was a private matter between him and the gods. But this man, with a mix of uncontainable fervor and a new feeling he had just experienced, once again renewed his oath, reinforced instead of faltered, before the Divine Goddess that happiness will be his to claim no matter what, not letting anyone take it away.

07:45, around the same time

Ministry of Military Affairs Main Building, Albion District, Runepolis

Among the Holy Milishial Imperial Government’s offices, the MOASEC stood apart as the odd one out in terms of its location. These offices were harmoniously situated in a clustered arrangement, forming two distinct groups that are differentiated by their spatial relationship with the Albion Palace at the heart of the city. The first group, known as the ‘Ivory Hall,’ is positioned along the thoroughfare of the same name that stretches southwards from the palace towards the Foundation Monument. Meanwhile, the second group, denominated as the ‘Azure Lane,’ is located to the north-northwest.

Here, the grand marble façade of the imposing structures that lined the side of the avenue was adorned with striking Milishian blue banners that gave the road its famous moniker, emblazoned with the nine rays of the August Star of Heaven, seemingly intended to harmonize with a series of pointed pillar monuments situated at the heart of Azure Lane. Erected to commemorate the end of the Warring Kingdoms Period and the dawn of a new era for the Holy Empire, these monoliths were meticulously engraved in such a way that they served to weave a tale of the bygone era for anyone who traverse through them, building up to a crescendo of a triumphant symphony that culminated in a magnificent semi-circular monument that represented His Majesty’s greatest design: the Unification of Middle Lands.

At the end of the Azure Lane, a sight to behold awaits the intrepid visitor: a series of awe-inspiring, towering statues, crafted in reverence of the proud peoples of the Holy Empire. These monumental figures, garbed in full regalia and wielding ancient weapons: an Elf (square-sky halberd), a Dark Elf (khopesh), a Human (spear), a Dwarf (war hammer), and a Beastman (battle axe). Each statue stood proud and tall, their weapons outstretched toward the heavens, all pointed in the same direction. Carved into the base of the monument is the Holy Empire’s national motto, “FIVE PEOPLES UNDER ONE UNION” – a seemingly pretentious declaration that is full of itself, yet one that speaks volumes of the heartfelt aspirations of those who once walked these lands. For it was they, brave souls who served as instruments in this grand orchestra of ten thousand years of history, who hoped and dreamed that their sacrifices would lead to lasting peace and harmony.

Such was the backdrop of Azure Lane, a stage upon which the Ministry of Military Affairs, the agency charged with safeguarding the cherished dreams of the populace, stood. Though the jubilant festivities honoring Saoirse were the star of this day, the ten-story Military Ministry’s Main Building remained abuzz with its staff and operating with an undiminished capability. Amidst this scene, the dour-looking Military Affairs Minister, Marquis Ignis Schmill Pao, sat in his office on a plush sofa while smoking his exquisite brand of cigarettes.

The Marquis had already promised his grandson that he will be there once he finished his duties after this one final appointment, so not being able to spend this holiday at home was not the reason why was the scowl not leaving this grumpy elf’s attractive face. Nor he was like that because he contemplated about his old-fashioned family name.

“………”

Exhaling after a deep drag on the cigarette, Ignis took another puff as he continued gazing at the stack of documents brought to him by the real reason for his sour mood.

“………What is the meaning of this?” he drawled, finally looking up to see Andreas Birkburn from the Ministry of Ancient Sorcerous Empire Countermeasures, accompanied by one of his subordinates.

“It’s exactly what it means, Minister,” the auburn-haired human innocently answered.

“Don’t insult my intelligence, Andreas! Out with it, your intention in bringing these to me.”

Ignis aggressively tapped his finger on the document’s cover where he could see the logo of these visitor’s affiliation and two letters of “G” and “P” on it. A staring match ensued as Birkburn chose to seemingly ponder over his response for a moment, further irritating the Minister.

“That, is a token of our utmost apologies from the whole Ancient Ministry, sir.”

“Hah!” Ignis scoffed. “Are you meaning to say that your entire Ministry is also feeling at fault for what Arsene said?”

“The arbitrary proposal of Director Lippin to His Majesty is certainly an unthinkable one that will possibly cause inconveniences, but it was a combination of confidence that the Ancient Ministry gained after our recent successes and the confidence from us Ancient Ministry members. The repeated assertions from us subordinates to the Director are what influenced him to come forward with such an absurd promise. Therefore, we are also as much at fault here. Besides, you also know that the Director is better off atoning for his mistake by overseeing the Alpha Edge Project until its completion, rather than coming here offering you well-meaning but empty platitudes, no? I know you are not that petty, Minister.”

Ignis leaned back in his seat, but his visible anger was already beginning to dissipate the moment he heard those words. Before responding, he discarded his cigarette into the ashtray.

“And these couple of blueprints for proposed designs is your idea of appeasement?” Ignis raised an eyebrow.

“Those are designs for a variety of land weapons,” Birkburn pointed out.

“I can see that. And your point?”

“Looking at the state of the Holy Empire’s military, unfortunately the Imperial Army is the least advanced branch of the three. I won’t bore you with details, but thanks to our recent activities, the Ancient Ministry managed to come up with these proposals to alleviate their concerns and start the long-awaited modernization of the ground forces. I’d say just in time, since I hear through the Army liaison to us that their upper echelons were starting to get impatient.”

Notwithstanding its status as the bastion of technological advancement in the Holy Milishial Empire, both in military and civilian areas, the MOASEC – hailed as the epicenter of the nation’s greatest minds – had remained stale in its progress for as long as people could remember. However, the past year has witnessed a remarkable rekindling of its performance, and a plethora of breakthrough inventions have been emerging in quick succession to inspire the related organizations to keep up with them. Nonetheless, to the consternation of the Imperial Army, it is always the Imperial Navy that invariably enjoys the lion’s share of every new piece of technology introduced. Magic ships, naturally, but also small arms, given that they operate naval infantry, and even Heavenly Vessels.

Despite repeated complaints from the Army, the MOASEC was unable to rectify the situation, as their lack of fortune in unearthing any ground-based relics from the Ancient Sorcerous Empire remnants meant that the Army remained the most technologically and doctrinally backward of all the Holy Empire’s military branches. Indeed, the situation had deteriorated to such an extent that the Holy Milishial Imperial Army was said to be actually only marginally superior to the Muish Royal Army, who lacked mages capable of commanding the terrain to facilitate their operations. It is only due to the Milishian Army’s theoretically excellent logistics – by the standards of the known world – that they are able to maintain a semblance of superiority over their Muish counterparts.

Hence, when the MOASEC presented these ‘GP’ designs, Ignis was pleasantly surprised given the Army’s predicament. He was indifferent to their origins and creators, as long as they get the job done. Nevertheless, a sense of suspicion still lingered in his mind as to the MOASEC’s motives.

“Hmph. Then do what you must,” the handsome Marquis grunted, lighting another cigarette after a while. “Go and entertain the Army if you can, but I don’t think it will be that easy, nor do you even need my approval to start your own projects. You… don’t come all the way here simply to ask for apologies by showing off your stuff, am I right?”

Birkburn sheepishly chuckled. “Ahahahaha…… Yes, the Minister is truly sharp. Actually, we at the Ancient Ministry thought that using the Alpha Edge Project as a precedent, we should tighten our cooperation with various organizations more closely to ensure the success of our endeavors. Hence, we thought that by showing these designs, we will be able to convince the Military Ministry to cooperate more with us. In other words, we are asking you to not lose confidence in our ability to provide you with new equipment.”

“Hah, there you go! What a roundabout way to apologize for your current transgressions and pledge to consult us for your activities,” Ignis rolled his eyes.

“Well, I guess so, Minister,” Birkburn smiled at Ignis’s sarcastic reaction. “Then, do we have a deal, sir?”

A drag, then a puff of smoke. The intense emerald eyes belonging to Ignis narrowed slightly.

“Steady there, I don’t think it’s very fair.”

“Ah?”

Birkburn’s subordinate looked at his boss in concern, but the man simply stroked his goatee and waited for Ignis to continue.

“I will give Arsene a chance for forgiveness if, and only if the Ancient Ministry manages to complete the Alpha Edge Project within the promised time limit, which is two years as Arsene said. But I will not forget about this. What Arsene did was idiotic and should have never been done in the first place! …And since you feel responsible for his stupid proposal, then feel free to try to make amends.”

With that, the Minister’s anger had seemingly returned. Ignis then leaned forward after taking another long drag from his cigarette and continued.

“But circumstances have it that the Military and Ancient Ministries are mandated to work closely together. I am willing to listen and provide assistance to realize these GP designs of yours. Name your requirements, and we’ll talk.”

“Thank you, Minister. We will prepare to hold talks for that matter soon.”

“Hmph. If only you did that with the Alpha Edge…” Ignis remarked bitterly. “But whatever, it’s useless crying over the spilled milk. Call me a pointy-eared bastard if you want, but you’re lucky I’m not that ‘Villainess’ Herodia.”

As soon as Ignis uttered that name, all three present let out a weary sigh. Herodia Courtenay, the Minister of Treasury, was notorious for her visceral aversion to both Arsene and Ignis. In addition to the heated budgetary debates between the Treasury and Military Ministries, the former reserved its most venomous attacks for the Ancient Ministry, which it considered an even bigger tax thief, yet even more useless than the military. Unfortunately, the strained dynamic between the Treasury Ministry and the two showed no signs of improving and was likely to remain acrimonious. Nevertheless, even a ‘villainess’ like Herodia would dutifully comply with the Emperor’s commands. Thus, securing funding for the MOASEC should prove to be a non-issue given His Majesty’s favorable disposition toward them.

The disdainful mockery that Herodia directed towards Arsene was particularly irksome to Ignis. However, the poor man had earned his ire so much that he resolved not to intervene on his behalf, as a means of teaching him a lesson. ‘Let him suffer the consequences of cutthroat politics,’ he thought to himself. He was neither Legendorga nor Pendragon.

Yes. Despite Birkburn’s claim to the contrary, Ignis was not above pettiness.

“……Which is why it’s better for us to form a joint front and work together for mutual benefit rather than facing it separately, don’t you think Minister? Are you not tired of being ridiculed by the Villainess and her underling?” Birkburn pressed with a slightly joking tone.

“Oh, I will surely consider that had not Arsene decided to damage my trust in him by his mistake,” Ignis glowered. “Go fix your internal affairs first before you come back and talk to me about forming a united front! …That’s all you have to say?”

As the clock neared the eighth hour, the meeting came to a close, granting Ignis a long-awaited opportunity to be with his grandson who wanted to see the festivities of the Water Goddess Day in the Tranquila District. Although the Military Minister’s fury toward Director Arsene Lippin remained palpable, he recognized the potential in the GP designs and promptly delegated the responsibility of its management on his part to his subordinates, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of the Army.

Before leaving Azure Lane, the elf decided to indulge in a moment of relaxation, savoring his last cigarette while reviewing the presented GP designs and remembering the regular reports about the impressive headway made in the Alpha Edge Project. Despite his lingering resentment will not seem to subside any time soon, Ignis sometimes pondered about the enigmatic workings of fate that had bestowed upon his Ancient Ministry counterpart both abundant fortune and ill luck in equal measure.

08:04

A11 road, Belyudra District

As Birkburn’s gaze swept over the passing buildings that comprised the urban milieu of Runepolis, sitting within a speeding car en route to his secluded office in the San Redentore District, he informed his superior Lippin of the details concerning his recent meeting with Minister Ignis Schmill Pao through the grimoire. The moment he finished his explanation, Lippin’s voice sounded relieved in his reply.

“Thank you for your hard work, Birkburn.”

“Don’t worry, sir. You can always count on me.”

“…One more thing. Is it really okay with how you worded your presentation to Minister Schmill Pao and omit any mention of Young Roguerider’s contribution in inventing them?”

“Yes. Being too honest about it will not do us any good. As a former Army general, Minister Schmill Pao shared their conservative belief regarding the path of our advancement, Birkburn firmly explained. “For the Army, technologies derived from reverse-engineering proven Ancient Sorcerous Empire technologies are more reliable than gambling on a new innovation they never seen before. It’s faster to convince them that way and then come clear after that… or not. I just told them in a vague manner, after all, Meteos Roguerider is also a member of the Ancient Ministry, thus making his research an Ancient Ministry activity. That’s how I interpret Young Roguerider’s very own words regarding the GP designs to ‘do as your will.’”

“I see…”

Lippin sounded like he had mixed feelings about how his subordinate pushed to advance the Ancient Ministry’s interests.

“Welcome to politics, sir.”

“Honestly…” Lippin let out a bitter sigh but in the end, he thanked Birkburn for his efforts, ending the call after that.

After a moment of silence while the car continued to traverse the increasingly empty road, Birkburn’s other subordinate, a white-clad man seemingly in his mid-twenties who had waited patiently in the car during the meeting, turned from his seat next to the driver to look at him.

“Don’t you feel bad for the Director, Chief?” he asked, his hazel eyes glimmering with interest.

“What is it, Daguva?”

“It was you who recommended him to the Council of Imperial Ministers and with His Majesty’s approval, successfully placed the Director as the number one man in the Ancient Ministry. You don’t feel bad seeing him getting attacked left and right by the other ministers?”

“Oh. Well… yes, it is rather painful to see someone I personally helped get a promotion to suffer so much because of some stupid mistakes. But if I can help him regain his lost credibility later, I’m fine with it.”

The subordinate called Daguva crossed his arms with a sly grin, parting his lips to reveal a row of sharp teeth. As a stag-beetle demi-human, Daguva boasts the magical ability to excrete substances from his sweat glands that have the remarkable capacity to congeal into an armor-like casing. However, in addition that he himself lacking any overt resemblance to a stag beetle, his sharp teeth frequently left people confused about his true species.

“Why bother helping that buffoon keep his position when you can become a Director yourself?”

The driver let out an uneasy glance at the demi-human beside him at those words.

“No.”

“Hah? Why?” Daguva tilted his head.

“………I just don’t see myself as someone to lead the Ancient Ministry.”

“Even if you have to grovel to other ministers in defending Lippin?”

“Why you—” the driver was about to deliver a scathing reply before Birkburn stopped him with a wave of his hand.

“That’s called diplomacy, Daguva. As you can see, it’s something that has kept the Holy Empire on the top of the world for this long,” the auburn-haired man calmly replied. “I thought we are done with this?”

“Whatever,” Daguva flippantly replied, throwing his hands behind his back. “Gorage’pa gorogijisogi ba. How could you be so selfish, yet so selfless at the same time?”

His words sounded rather condescending but Birkburn chose to ignore the demi-human’s comment, turning his attention to the outside view again.

“…I don’t have many ambitions. When I recommended Lippin, I envisioned him as someone who will not take too many risks, someone more inclined to play safe…”

“Considering how it turned out, I’d say you’re a horrible judge of character. Not to mention a coward,” Daguva dryly remarked. “If you desire a comfortable life so much, then go become the Director yourself. You seem to be good at politics, you can easily be able to lead the Ministry your way. But no, you chose to use that talent to propel someone else because you’re too spineless to take the reins on your own. It is true that Lippin is innocently stupid, but you’re even worse: a dishonest and cowardly stupid. You’re the true loser of the two.”

“………”

Birkburn nodded in resignation. Daguva was right, he was too scared of making tough choices that will come his way if he were a Director. Nevertheless, he felt that his attempts to defend the Director he had all but manipulated this entire time is good enough of an atonement. Even though it was painful to feel this emotion, Birkburn found solace in the fact that this ability to feel was a sign that he was not a monster. Yet.

…………

“Politics, huh…”

In the balcony of his residence in the Lambert District, Director of the MOASEC, Arsene Lippin, forlornly stared at the now darkened screen of his grimoire long after the call with his subordinate ended. He wondered from time to time again how a simple paper pusher like him got propelled to his current position, somehow not sacked on his first day, and get to experience firsthand the intrigues in the inner workings of the Holy Milishial Empire’s government. He did not have a prior clue of what was going on inside the bureaucracy and politics. Either being seen as a brilliant and daring young man with his actions or getting roasted by the seniors, it’s all new for him.

The man sighed as he began to think that he was actually being used as a pawn by some unknown force, even more invisible beyond the level of the Secret Department he witnessed in his own Ministry. However, as soon as that thought crossed his mind, he quickly shook his head to drive them away.

“Dear?”

His wife Cassandra came from behind him, with their young daughter Noelle in tow. When Lippin turned to look, they were already dressed in winter clothing. ‘Right, we’re going to enjoy the holiday outside,’ he reminded himself.

“Ah, you’re ready to go?” he tried his best to make a smile and approached them.

Both of them nodded happily.

“Yes, papa! Can we go now, please…?”

“Sure thing,” Lippin nodded. “Let me grab my cloak and we’re all set.”

“Um!”

“We’ll be waiting downstairs.”

When Lippin proceeded toward his bedroom to change into a fresh set of garments, he came across his firstborn, Ishmael. The young lad, bearing a striking resemblance to a younger version of himself, appeared to have been caught off-guard by his father’s sudden appearance, as evidenced by the startled look he gave Lippin.

“Uh…”

“Ah, there you are, Isha. You’re not ready to go yet?”

“…I need to use the bathroom,” the boy answered sheepishly.

“I see. I’ll be downstairs with your mother and sister. We’ll depart as soon as you’re ready.”

“Y-yes, dad.”

Lippin did not say anything more to let Ishmael do his business, settling for continuing his walk to get ready himself with a relieved sigh.

Despite his extremely busy timetable, Lippin tried his best to spend as much time as he could with his family, particularly with his two children. His relationships with Ishmael and Noelle were returning to normal, but they were still longing for his presence. Yet now, with all these things happening in his life, Lippin found that the precious moments of leisure he once enjoyed were dwindling at an alarming rate. It was an irreversible situation, an overwhelmingly terrible deal that left him with shame whenever he gazed into the innocent eyes of his own children, a sensation he had never before experienced. But he blamed no one. It was his own fault that he ended up in his predicament, after all.

In the end, while attempting to reconcile with his predicament, he decided to cast aside all other thoughts and at least use this day to relax as much as possible.

In the end, despite the heavy thoughts and burdens weighing on their minds, everyone decided to go on the Water Goddess Day with a positive outlook, or at the very least, make an attempt to do so, whether it was genuine or veiled under layers upon layers of masks.

MINISTRY OF ANCIENT SORCEROUS EMPIRE COUNTERMEASURES Research Data

THE VERDICT: DESIGN "G.P."

Legend:

Light Blue: Approved for prototype production

Light Green: Approved for additional research

Dark Blue: Placed into consideration

Black: Canceled