sTs6qWBx

1Chapter II: My Cute Daughter Grew Bigger and I Shrunk. What Now?
2“It has been a long time, young man.”
3
4So he said as he looked down at the tiny old man standing beneath his eyes. No, the old man wasn’t really all that small. It was just that he was far too large. He was large enough to easily step over this old man, which clearly made him larger than any human being. This was a thought that passed his mind while his consciousness was in a haze. This was a dream. And in this dream, he had become someone else.
5
6A faint smile could be spotted through the gap in the old man’s hood.
7
8“I’m sure all humans look like children from your perspective, but it’s odd being called a young man at my age. You also dislike being called a giant lizard, right?”
9
10And he raised a hearty laughter in response to the old man’s cynicism.
11
12“Hahaha, you are the only one who dares to speak to me in such a frivolous manner... Come now, there’s no need to take offense over such a trivial jest.”
13
14The old man let out a small sigh in response to his delighted attitude.
15
16“And you’re about the only one who can still make me sigh... In any case, it’s been about a thousand years since then, huh?”
17
18The old man’s words pricked at his heart. He felt lonely, and the only one who could possibly understand that feeling was this old man. However, he simply narrowed his eyes.
19
20“Speaking of a thousand years, I found a girl who closely resembles ‘her’ the other day,” the old man said as if remembering something.
21
22“Hm... Could she be... a high elf?”
23
24“Yeah. Seems to be a case of atavism. Still, this girl has splendid white hair nonetheless. Over the past thousand years, ‘she’ was the only one who could compare to such a level of purity. Our young ones seem to want to know more about her, so I ended up sheltering her.”
25
26Listening to the old man, he closed his eyes, reveling in nostalgia. What came to mind was the image of a human boy, a man, and a lone girl. It was an extremely old memory, so their faces and clothing were all a blur. It wasn’t clear exactly what they were to him, but they stayed in his heart to the point where simply thinking of them made him happy. That was why he didn’t laugh at the old man’s actions, but instead nodded pleasantly.
27
28“I would like to meet her at least once. I did not get a chance to exchange words with that one a thousand years ago.”
29
30“It’d be nice if you could. It seems that she needs saving. However, I’m unfortunately not very well suited to such a thing.”
31
32“Such troublesome matters.”
33
34“Is it not you dragons who guide mankind?”
35
36He let out a groan upon hearing the old man’s reply. And then, after a short pause, he quietly raised his face.
37
38“If I possessed such power, then this would never have happened.”
39
40He and the old man looked off into the distance where the world began distorting. That which should not exist was trying to manifest in the world. And seeing that sight, the old man formed a faint smile once more.
41
42“You can surely guide them. That’s why Solomon, ‘she,’ and I were all happy. That’s precisely why we despaired, and thus struggled against them,” the old man said, his voice laden with gratitude. Then, he asked, “Now that I think of it, you had a daughter yourself, right? Is she in good health?”
43
44“She is but a chick who has just learned how to walk. However, she will one day be the last dragon in this world. It makes me think I may have done something cruel.”
45
46“The last dragon...” the old man muttered before continuing in an affectionate tone, “I would also like to meet that child.”
47
48“Then so shall it be. Meeting you would be a good opportunity for her to learn of the world,” the dragon said as he silently looked up and stared at the distortion before them. Then, he spoke glumly, stating “Azazel is broken, and we have not even half the Sacred Swords here. The only Sigil of the Archdemon we possess is the one on your hand. It shall not go like a thousand years ago.” And despite all that, he smiled as he said, “But, ‘tis a good day to die.”
49
50The old man opened his mouth in surprise, then returned a laugh.
51
52“Until we meet again, Wise Dragon Orobas.”
53
54“I look forward to meeting that high elf who closely resembles her, Archdemon Marchosias.”
55
56This was a scene from a little before Zagan and Nephy first met. It was a lost memory that none in the world knew of.
57
58◇
59
60“What is the meaning of this, I wonder?” Nephy asked. Her voice was usually a quiet one, and yet now it had a sharp ring to it like thunder. At a glance, there didn’t seem to be even a hint of anger on Nephy’s face. Compared to her usual expressionless self, one could even say she was smiling. And yet, Foll and Gremory, who were made to kneel before her, were both cowering.
61
62“...Sorry.”
63
64“Y-You’ve got it all wrong, Lady Nephy. I had nothing but the best inten... Yes, I’m very sorry...”
65
66They were currently in the throne room. Nephy went out to look for Zagan and the others when they didn’t show up for breakfast, and after discovering Zagan in his child-like state, she began interrogating the two culprits, Gremory and Foll. She was currently seated atop Zagan’s throne in his stead, looking down on the two of them with a cold smile... However, the ground at her feet had suddenly become covered in moss. It seemed Nephy’s mysticism activated when she got all worked up. There was no need to even ask now, since it was clear she was in a bad mood.
67
68I haven’t seen Nephy this angry in a long time... Right after Zagan and Nephy had just met, they were attacked by Angelic Knights and Zagan was wounded in the battle. That was the first time Nephy used mysticism in front of him. This wasn’t quite as severe as that time, but her anger was still palpable.
69
70Honestly, I really didn’t want her to see me like this... Zagan’s worst nightmare had come true. There were things about his past that he didn’t want her to know because he loved her. He hadn’t exactly lived an honest life back then, so having such a vivid reminder of his past shoved in her face pained him.
71
72Foll was no longer able to wear her usual native dress, so she was borrowing clothes from Gremory. Unfortunately, they were a bit too provocative, since they were the clothes Gremory wore when she returned to her prime. Looking at her, it was clear that Foll was an eighteen-year-old woman. Zagan, on the other hand, didn’t even look ten. It seemed their ages had been swapped. Or at least, their physical ages, anyway, since it was hard to compare a dragon’s lifespan to a human’s.
73
74Incidentally, Gremory fully understood that she couldn’t try to trick Nephy by taking on the form of an old woman or a little girl and was seriously facing her in her prime form, but her face was drenched in sweat. Between Foll and Gremory, it seemed that Gremory would be the first to completely break down if this kept up, so Zagan cleared out his throat with a cough.
75
76“Um, Nephy...? It’s not like Gremory was just fooling around, okay? This is also my fault, since I didn’t control the Sigil of the Archdemon properly, so don’t be too mad...” Zagan implored her for mercy on their behalf. Though, even he hesitated to cut into the conversation initially. And, as he tried to mediate in a weak-willed fashion, Nephy tightly embraced him.
77
78“But for Master Zagan to become so adora... so small like this...”
79
80“What were you about to say just now? Actually, can you let me down already?” Zagan asked. Even he was reduced to complaining in such a situation. That was because Nephy was hugging him like a stuffed doll and wouldn’t let go. Zagan had initially thought of hiding. However, when he was caught in this unsightly form by the person he most wanted to hide it from, he froze up on the spot. Eventually, he came to... and it ended up like this.
81
82By the way, there were no children’s clothes whatsoever in the castle, so Zagan was still wearing his now baggy robes. Thanks to that, he was unable to move properly, and couldn’t even escape from Nephy’s lap. Looking upon that scene, Gremory pinned down her chest and gave him a big thumbs up.
83
84“Hnnngh, nice love pow— Erk, n-no, it’s nothing.”
85
86Why was this granny unable to learn her lesson? Gremory was reduced to a trembling mess as Nephy glared at her with a cold gaze that felt like a dagger of ice. The scariest part of all was that Nephy was still smiling the whole time, which made even Zagan break out into a cold sweat.
87
88In any case, she knew the situation wouldn’t get resolved even if they continued bullying Gremory, so Nephy pinched at her brow as she cut to the chase.
89
90“...Well, from what I’ve gathered, you’re unable to return Master Zagan to normal, correct?” Nephy inquired. The three of them had performed a ritual to help Foll grow older. The fact that Zagan also became younger was an unforeseen side effect. When mana that was separated from the control of circuits ran wild, it often transformed into a ‘curse’ that differed in nature from sorcery. In such a case, even Zagan’s ability to devour sorcery could not nullify it. Normally, anyone who possessed as much mana as an Archdemon wouldn’t get cursed, but...
91
92“My liege’s and Lady Foll’s power both went berserk at the same time. That is already something outside the realm of sorcery. I can’t return him to normal with my power... If I say this is a situation where a dragon and an Archdemon collaborated to cast a curse, would you understand?” Gremory said with a humiliated expression on her face.
93
94“A curse...” Nephy mumbled. Back in the hidden elven village, Nephy was ostracized as a cursed child, so that word made her body tremble.
95
96Even Gremory looks depressed... Normally, she just screwed around without a care in the world, but there was still no mistaking the fact that she was a powerful sorcerer. Not only did her specialized sorcery run wild, but she was unable to put things back in order. It truly must have been humiliating for—
97
98“Even though I brought about such an awesome display of love power, I can’t even reproduce it! How humiliating!”
99
100“Miss Gremory,” Nephy said flatly.
101
102“...Sorry. I’m joking. I shall devote my body and soul to finding a way to fix this,” Gremory replied. Nephy’s emotionless voice had reduced Gremory to prostrating herself on the ground, begging for forgiveness. Nephy, on the other hand, looked to be having a headache, and was pinching her brow once more.
103
104“For the time being, explain this in a way that even an amateur like me would understand,” Nephy asked. It was only natural that Gremory was unable to do anything but make incoherent noises with Nephy on her case, so Foll spoke on her behalf.
105
106“Zagan wouldn’t give me power because I’m small, which made me decide to get bigger. But we didn’t have enough power with just me and Gremory, so I asked Zagan to help out.”
107
108Nephy looked troubled, seemingly not sure how to react to the fact that her daughter was now bigger than her.
109
110“And then we failed, and this happened,” Foll said as she held up the back of her right hand. The Sigil of the Archdemon that Zagan possessed floated up on the back of Foll’s right hand. However, he looked down at his own hand, and spotted the sigil woven of mana was still there. The one on Foll’s hand was the same in that it was woven with mana, but it was more like a birthmark than anything.
111
112“This is likely something known as a stigma. Since I opened a path to share mana with Foll, the sigil was transcribed on her hand,” Zagan stated.
113
114“A stigma...?” Nephy said, tilting her head to the side.
115
116“It’s a phenomenon where your scar shows up on somebody else as if it’s theirs. Seems they treat them as something sacred in the church, but it’s troublesome when these show up on sorcerers. If handled poorly, it’s entirely possible that once one of you dies, the other will have to tag along for the trip... Having said that, the path I opened with Foll is a one-way street. If there are any effects, it’ll likely only transfer from me to you.”
117
118“Could it be... Is that what this nice, warm feeling on my back is?” Foll asked as she looked about in confusion.
119
120“Ah, it probably is,” Zagan replied. Since Zagan was sitting on Nephy’s lap and couldn’t get away, an indescribably pleasant sensation ran up his back. The reason he was unable to calm down was because he noticed the things pressing into him.
121
122“Anyway, my mana is currently flowing to Foll without any restrictions. That’s probably the cause of this ridiculous age swap. Makes sense, since all of this went wrong during Gremory’s ritual.”
123
124The core problem was the stigma of the sigil that Foll showed them. Foll’s body had grown, but it wasn’t like there was any effect on her mind, so her explanation was a little lacking. And after Zagan supplemented her explanation, Nephy nodded in a convinced manner.
125
126“We used the Sigil of the Archdemon to amplify sorcery that originally had no effect on a dragon. It was my carelessness that allowed it to run rampant like that. It’s meaningless to blame Gremory at this point.”
127
128“...My liege. Aren’t you strangely fixated on that point? It isn’t like I’m the only one being blamed here,” Gremory asked. However, Zagan completely ignored her peculiarly discontent voice, and continued his explanation.
129
130“I came to the throne room because I thought that if I recovered some of my powers, I’d be able to find a solution, but... well, it looks like that won’t work.”
131
132There were countless barriers that strengthened Zagan’s powers surrounding his domain. And the place where his power was strengthened the most was his throne room, but it seemed the situation was far more troublesome than he initially thought, since returning here didn’t change anything.
133
134Nephy was listening to his explanation intently, but she was unaware that she was stroking Zagan’s head the entire time. Moreover, he found it unexpectedly comforting and didn’t bluntly tell her to stop either.
135
136I feel like I understand Foll a little more now... Being treated like a child should have proved vexing, but there was something so comfortable about it that he just couldn’t resist.
137
138“Wait, does that mean your powers have weakened, Master Zagan?” Nephy remarked, completely taken aback.
139
140“Shhh...” Zagan whispered as he put his index finger up to his lips, then said, “Well, I’m not quite as powerful as before, yeah. For example, if I had to rebuild the barrier around this castle, it would take several days instead of several minutes. And right now, I may not even be able to devour sorcery depending on my opponent’s abilities.”
141
142As he was, even the Heaven’s Phosphor he intended to teach to Foll was out of reach. They couldn’t allow such a fact to be known by others, so Nephy covered her mouth in a panic. Fortunately, the only ones present here were Zagan, Nephy, their daughter Foll, and Gremory. Gremory was a trusted retainer of Zagan’s, so he could assert that she wouldn’t speak of this to others. Having said that, it didn’t change the fact that Zagan was in a rather perilous position.
143
144“Master Zagan...” Nephy muttered in a grief-stricken voice, then cocked her head to the side as if a certain doubt just came to mind before saying, “If the source of this incident is the one-way street, why not change it to go both ways?”
145
146Well, even if they didn’t kiss on the lips, they could get the same result if Foll kissed Zagan’s brow or cheek or something to open the other path. However, Gremory simply shook her head.
147
148“Did I not say already? This is a curse, not just some simple malfunction. Actually, the fact that the flow of mana is only one-way may be precisely what’s keeping it from getting any worse. There’s a chance we’ll throw off the balance of the situation if we act too rashly.”
149
150“What could happen if we do?”
151
152“In the worst case, Zagan may die.”
153
154Nephy gulped down, then squeezed Zagan tighter.
155
156Well, can’t say I blame her. I would make the exact same face if someone told me that Nephy was in grave danger...
157
158“In other words, it’s completely different from when I became smaller... right?” Nephy wrung out those words in a trembling voice.
159
160“Though I regret to say it, you are correct.”
161
162Back when Nephy was transformed into a child, every aspect of the sorcery was under the complete control of Archdemon Orias. In that sense, it was safe.
163
164And as he mulled over such things, a thought came to mind.
165
166Hm? Orias is Gremory’s teacher, right? In other words, Orias and Gremory used the same sorcery, and as an Archdemon, Orias’ power and experience was on an entirely different level. She was the one who turned Nephy into a child before, and her power encompassed both sorcery and mysticism. It may have been possible for her to do something about this troublesome curse. Gremory also seemed to have realized that possibility, and stared fixedly into Zagan’s eyes.
167
168“Let’s see... Shall we rely on your teacher?”
169
170“I’ll try to get in touch with her.”
171
172“Master Zagan, are you acquainted with Miss Gremory’s teacher?” Nephy asked, looking astonished by their exchange.
173
174“Huh? Ah...” Zagan was at a loss for words upon realizing that his statement was rather careless.
175
176Crap. If I tell her I’m going to rely on Orias, Nephy will definitely tag along. Even now, she was hugging him so tightly that it was clear she never wanted to let him go. There was no way she would allow him to travel alone in his current state.
177
178Orias was Nephy’s actual mother. However, Nephy’s memories of that fact were hazy, and she still didn’t know the truth. Zagan had met her by chance the other day, but because of the ongoing dispute with Archdemon Bifrons, they ended up parting ways there for the time being.
179
180That was why Zagan didn’t want their reunion to be under such grim circumstances. And while he was racking his brain for a solution to the problem at hand, Gremory shook her head in a grave manner.
181
182“My teacher is also an Archdemon, so my liege has met her in the past. However, it may be better for you not to meet her, Lady Nephy.”
183
184“Why is that?”
185
186“Did I not say so already? She is my teacher. The very same teacher who drilled the essentials of love power into me. A high elf like you, who is full of love power, may not get away from her safely.”
187
188“Eeek...” Nephy screamed, seemingly left at a loss for words.
189
190Hey! Stop that! It’ll just make things even more complicated when Nephy and Orias meet again! However, they now had a reason to keep Nephy at a distance. And though it pained him greatly to do so, Zagan gave a slight nod to affirm Gremory’s statement.
191
192“...You’re quite correct. Even I can imagine what would happen if that Archdemon were to meet Nephy,” Zagan said, meaning he could imagine the heartwarming reunion between mother and daughter.
193
194“Is it alright for that kind of person to meet Master Zagan when he’s in this adorable form?” Nephy added timidly.
195
196“Huh? Uh, I wonder...? My teacher has no interest in mankind, so I think it should be fine.”
197
198Hey! Don’t actually sound worried! And Nephy, don’t call me adorable! Zagan believed that Orias was a perfectly respectable person. He had no confidence that he could pay respect to that old woman if she started blurting out things that Gremory often said like love power. And though she had turned pale from all the talk, Nephy still mustered her willpower.
199
200“Let’s talk through all our options. What are your thoughts on how to return Master Zagan to normal?”
201
202“Like I said, relying on my teacher is our first option. My age manipulation sorcery is something my teacher developed, so she would be best suited to help,” Gremory said as she stuck up a finger to start counting the options. When she lifted her second one, she said, “Next is to somehow sever the path that was created earlier. However, this runs a similar risk to reconnecting the path, since it’s possible to cause a further outburst of mana that could endanger both their lives. We may think of it as an option, but it should be our last resort.”
203
204Nephy held her breath as she nodded, and Gremory raised a her third finger in response.
205
206“And finally, we can rely on techniques from another continent.”
207
208“Another continent...?”
209
210Gremory simply nodded as Nephy tilted her head to the side.
211
212“All sorcery on this continent shares the same root. Nothing more can be done with it if my teacher is unable to return him to normal. However, power that differs from sorcery exists on the island nation of Liucaon. That’s why there’s some value in shifting our focus over to it.”
213
214“In that case, can’t something be done with Nephteros’ mysticism or even celestial mysticism?” Nephy replied.
215
216“Perhaps, but I think that may be hard. Mysticism is certainly powerful, but you and Nephteros don’t have full control of it. As for celestial mysticism...” Gremory hesitated to speak any further. However, Zagan, and even Foll, understood what it was she was trying to say. That was why his now-grown daughter hesitated as she opened her mouth to speak.
217
218“I feel like... celestial mysticism is a power that only exists for battle...”
219
220In a fight, it was an overwhelming force that could obliterate a castle in a single blow. Combine that with its healing power, and celestial mysticism was far too powerful. It was as if it was a weapon developed to fight something beyond human understanding.
221
222Upon hearing that, the tips of Nephy’s ears quivered greatly.
223
224“A power... that only exists for battle...?” Nephy repeated in a hesitant voice. Sorcery was originally a means for sorcerers to fulfill their desires. It wasn’t a power developed for the purpose of destruction or battle. However, because there was a direct connection between gaining knowledge and gaining power, all experienced sorcerers ended up becoming powerful. In a way, Zagan was a freak among the freaks, since he had only ever developed his sorcery to become more powerful.
225
226Although Nephy was still a beginner, she understood that fact. And because of that, her eyes widened in shock.
227
228Oh, I see. She must be thinking her power is only meant to hurt others... Zagan cleared out his throat with a cough in an attempt to grab her attention. And then, once he succeeded, he began to speak.
229
230“Don’t misunderstand, Nephy. Most technology in the world is unlike sorcery in that they were developed during times of war. Conflict gave rise to skilled swordsmiths, and their efforts gave birth to techniques like forging and casting. Then, those techniques, in turn, gave rise to the development of farming tools, metal fittings, and all sorts of other things.”
231
232“Is... that true?”
233
234“It is. Essentially, Foll’s saying that celestial mysticism is currently in that preliminary stage. She just means it’s something that has yet to be applied in other fields. Isn’t that right?” Zagan asked as he looked over to Foll, who nodded her head with a bob.
235
236“Yeah. That’s why even though celestial mysticism is strong, it isn’t suited for delicate matters,” Foll replied.
237
238Nephy’s expression loosened up as she heard that. And then, for some reason, she began petting Zagan’s head.
239
240“Fufufu, thank you for cheering me up, Master Zagan. You’re certainly smart.”
241
242“N-Nephy? Why are you treating me like a child?” Zagan began whining.
243
244“My apologies. It almost felt like I was dealing with Foll,” Nephy responded with an apology, though that still didn’t make her stop petting Zagan’s head.
245
246This doesn’t feel bad, but... This wasn’t the first time Nephy had brushed his head, but before she did so in a far more reserved manner. Right now, she was acting rather bold, to the point where it felt like his entire body was being caressed. As a result, Zagan unintentionally let out a satisfied sigh.
247
248“Huh!? No, now’s not the time for this!” Zagan yelled as he regained his bearings.
249
250Forget the date, I won’t even be able to buy clothes for it like this! He only had a week left to prepare, so time was of the essence.
251
252“We have no time to spare, Gremory! Get in contact with Orias immediately!”
253
254“As you wish,” Gremory replied. Then, she stood up and gave him a deep bow before walking out of the throne room.
255
256◇
257
258Zagan looked up at Nephy after seeing off his trusted retainer.
259
260“That’s the situation, Nephy. I’ve got a little business to attend to, so I’ll be leaving the castle. Take care of the place while I’m gone,” Zagan ordered as he sat atop her lap.
261
262I need to make full preparations for when Nephy and Orias finally reunite!
263
264“As you wish...” Nephy sounded somewhat taken aback as she responded. And she simply nodded as he jumped off her lap.
265
266“What’s wrong?”
267
268“Master Zagan, meeting another Archdemon in such clothing is a little...”
269
270Zagan’s usual robes were far too large for him in his current form. Frankly, it looked less like clothing and more like a large blanket.
271
272“Why not wear my clothes, then?” Foll inquired as she clapped her hands together.
273
274“...Do you know what you’re saying, Foll?” Zagan replied, sounding completely exasperated. It was true that her clothes would fit his new size, but there was no way he could wear girl’s clothing. Even Nephy shook her head at the idea.
275
276“I would enjoy seeing that, but he needs formal clothing.”
277
278“Hold it, Nephy. What do you mean you’d enjoy it?” Zagan asked. She’d been acting rather strange since he reverted to his young form, which had him confused. However, no one present paid her behavior any mind.
279
280“It’s my fault that Zagan shrunk, so I’ll head into town to look for clothes,” Foll gallantly volunteered to take action, but that just made Nephy’s ears quiver anxiously.
281
282“Will you be alright on your own?”
283
284“I’ll do my best.”
285
286Even if her body was now bigger, Foll was still Zagan and Nephy’s young daughter on the inside, which was why both of them were nervous about the thought of her traveling alone.
287
288“I’ll tag along. Maybe we can even meet Orias while we’re out there and save some time,” Zagan replied. There was no guarantee Orias would be able to treat him on the spot, but it was still worth a shot. Zagan had to try to resolve his size issue as soon as possible, since he had a date coming up that was now in jeopardy.
289
290“Before that, Nephy,” Foll said.
291
292“What’s the matter?” Nephy asked.
293
294“My feet are all numb...” Foll replied, her amber eyes on the verge of tears after being forced to sit on her heels this entire time.
295
296Well, her senses haven’t quite caught up with the new length of her limbs yet... She even needed Gremory’s help to get changed at the moment. Left with no other choice, Nephy rushed over to Foll.
297
298“You may be bigger than me now, but you’re still a needy child,” Nephy said in an affectionate tone. She was the very picture of motherly love.
299
300Nephy grabbed Foll’s extended arms and somehow managed to pull her up. And after she did, it was readily apparent that Foll was the taller of the two. She wasn’t a whole head taller, but Nephy still had to look up to meet her eyes.
301
302“I’m the bigger one now, so does that make me the mommy?” Foll curiously cocked her head to the side as she asked that question.
303
304“I don’t think our ages are all that different, though...”
305
306“Hm, then how about I be the big sister?” Foll’s eyes were sparkling with excitement as she said that, which left Zagan confused.
307
308I guess nothing aside from her size has really changed... Foll was also quite pleased when the little Nephy called her ‘big shis’ back at the hidden elven village. Normally, she was always the smallest one around, so she must have enjoyed the feeling.
309
310Immediately following that, the sound of something ripping resounded through the air.
311
312“Oh, my clothes tore again,” Foll muttered dryly. The moment she puffed out her chest, her clothes found themselves unable to contain her body and tore at the seams.
313
314“What should I do? I got these from Gremory...” Foll drooped her shoulders dejectedly as she said that. And Zagan, in turn, simply tapped his tiny heel against the ground. Then, a magic circle spread out at Foll’s feet that made the torn fibers around her chest reassemble. It was elementary sorcery, but Foll went ‘oooh’ in a surprised voice.
315
316“How did you do that?”
317
318“...Huh? Is this the first time you’ve seen it? It’s basic sorcery, so I’ll teach you later.”
319
320“Wow... Good boy!” Foll exclaimed as she started gently patting Zagan’s head.
321
322Goddammit... I can’t believe my own daughter’s treating me like a child... Zagan puffed out his cheeks to pout right as Foll looked down at her own chest in a troubled manner.
323
324“I don’t get it. Why did it tear? I’ve never had this problem before...” Foll mumbled in confusion. It seemed like she still didn’t know all the ways her body had grown.
325
326It’s a little embarrassing for me to explain... Zagan thought as he went over what to say in his mind.
327
328“Um, it’s a little hard to explain, but you’ve grown up. And maybe because you’re a dragon, you’ve swelled in certain areas more than Gremory has...”
329
330That’s far too direct. What the hell am I saying!? Zagan was left at his wit’s end by the problem, but Foll simply opened her eyes in surprise.
331
332“Your clothes can’t endure it when your powers swell? I didn’t know that.”
333
334“Oh... Well, it’s something like that,” Zagan said as he gave up on explaining it. Then, Nephy put her hand to her mouth while her ears quivered about in delight.
335
336“In that case, both of you need to go get some new clothes. Foll, please take care of Master Zagan,” Nephy requested. And with that, Foll looked at Zagan, her eyes filled with expectation.
337
338“Zagan, I’ll do my best as a big sister!”
339
340“Mm. I’m expecting much of you.”
341
342A smile bloomed on Nephy’s face as she watched the two of them. And at that exact moment, a quiet knock rang out from the door to the throne room.
343
344“Who is it?” Zagan asked.
345
346“It is I, my liege,” Raphael replied.
347
348“You didn’t show up for breakfast, so I came to call you... Is there some sort of problem?” Raphael questioned Zagan in a silent voice from the other side of the door.
349
350Well, it’s probably fine to tell Raphael... They were on good enough terms for Raphael to give him tips for his date, so he knew he could rely on him.
351
352“Are you alone?”
353
354“Indeed.”
355
356“Then come in.”
357
358Raphael opened the door without making a sound, then stepped into the throne room as if slipping through the crack. He looked around, and after noticing Zagan and Foll’s current states, his eyes shot wide-open.
359
360“You are... my liege? And Foll?”
361
362“That’s right,” Zagan answered his question, then went on to give him a summary of what happened.
363
364“Oh my... What a troublesome affair.”
365
366“It’s not that we have no leads. I hate the idea of putting myself in debt to another Archdemon, but I’m sure Orias can help.”
367
368“Is that so...” Raphael muttered as his expression gave away the fact that there was a problem on his mind beyond the situation itself.
369
370“Did something happen on your end?”
371
372“...No, it isn’t anything that serious. More importantly...” Raphael trailed off as he looked to Zagan, then Foll, then Nephy and continued with, “What will you do about breakfast?”
373
374“...Oh!” they all exclaimed in unison. They’d forgotten that Nephy had originally come to call them for breakfast. A sorcerer could easily go a whole day without eating food, but the option of not eating the breakfast that Nephy and Raphael had prepared wasn’t even something any of them considered.
375
376“Sir Raphael. Can you bring it over to the throne room for us?” Nephy asked in a resolute tone.
377
378“Understood. I shall also order those damn servants not to approach the throne room.”
379
380“Good idea,” Nephy replied. Zagan and the others were in awe at his ability to read a step ahead. Shortly thereafter, he returned with their breakfast in tow.
381
382“I shall return later to take the dishes, so you may just leave them there,” Raphael stated before he left the throne room once more. The room was equipped with a small table used for tea time, which suited their current needs just fine. After taking her seat, Nephy scooped up Zagan and placed him on her lap.
383
384“H-Hey, what’s the big idea?”
385
386“It will be hard for you to eat with such baggy clothing. Allow me to assist you,” Nephy responded as she picked up a spoon with Zagan still on her lap.
387
388“I can handle eating on my own!”
389
390“You’re heading out after breakfast, so please at least rely on me at times like this.”
391
392Zagan found himself unable to act strong when faced with Nephy’s desperate pleas. He desperately wished to resist, but he gave in to her whims instead.
393
394“...Just this once, okay?”
395
396“Yes!”
397
398“I want that,” Zagan said as he pointed at a bowl of soup.
399
400“Okay, here you go,” Nephy replied as she joyfully scooped up some soup with the spoon in her hand and carried it over to Zagan’s mouth.
401
402Gaaah! I’m happy, but also embarrassed! He found his childish figure utterly miserable. Who knew that being treated like a child would cut so deep? However, since Nephy looked extremely happy about the turn of events, he couldn’t show his displeasure.
403
404Foll’s breathing grew more rough and nasally as she heard their exchange.
405
406“Zagan, have some bread.”
407
408“Hey, why are you doing this too...?”
409
410“You should listen to your big sister,” Foll obstinately emphasized the words ‘big sister,’ which left Zagan with little choice. He opened his mouth despite cringing on the inside, and his daughter took that chance to toss some soft bread into it.
411
412“Is it tasty?”
413
414“It’s food that Nephy and Raphael made. Do you even need to ask?”
415
416“Wow... Good boy!” Foll exclaimed as a satisfied smile erupted onto her face.
417
418Should I just act as their toy during meals...? It pained him to be treated like a child, but both his bride and daughter looked happy. Plus, it wasn’t like the two of them were making fun of Zagan. He could tell that they truly derived great joy from the situation, which left him with little to complain about. That was why he pointed at the next dish he wanted with minimal resistance.
419
420“I want dessert next.”
421
422“But there’s still some salad left, Master Zagan,” Nephy replied. He couldn’t tell whether she wanted to spoil him or be strict with him as Nephy broke out into a smile and scooped up some pudding into her spoon.
423
424“Zagan, you can have my pudding too.”
425
426He didn’t intend to be greedy, but Foll also stuck out her spoon like she couldn’t wait any longer.
427
428Well, I guess this isn’t all that bad... A king had to keep acting like one despite any adverse circumstances.
429
430However, from the outside, the scene just looked like a painting of a haughty child being spoiled by his big sisters.
431
432◇
433
434In the church’s office.
435
436Chastille was chewing on some bread for breakfast while sitting at her desk.
437
438“Huh? A gathering of elders?” Barbatos asked as he popped out of the shadows with a hunk of meat in his hands. He had an unhealthy looking face with large shadows around his eyes, which were really no different from usual even though Nephteros had cured them just the other day, and several amulets dangling down from his neck. Barbatos ruffled his unkempt hair as he looked up at Chastille suspiciously, who cleared her throat out with a cough.
439
440“It’s an important conference where all the races of the continent gather. Please don’t cause any trouble, okay? Also, don’t speak while you’re eating. It’s rude.”
441
442“Oh, come on! What kind of crap do you expect me to pull, exactly? I’ve been protecting you like a gentleman this whole time, so at least have a little faith!”
443
444“I can tell that you’d try to capture any rare species you see, you know?”
445
446“Huh? Well, yeah, I’m a sorcerer. Why wouldn’t I do that?”
447
448Chastille let out a sigh as her headache set in. This man was Zagan’s undesirable friend, an ex-Archdemon candidate, and also the sorcerer who was assigned to be her escort. He couldn’t be trusted, but he was rather reliable as well.
449
450“I’m telling you not to do that. Listen, I’m not just going on behalf of the church. They chose me to represent all humans.”
451
452“Yeah yeah, don’t worry. Your babysitter will follow you anywhere.”
453
454Barbatos was capable of traversing any distance in an instant. That was a fairly useful skill in practice, but it also meant she could never shake him.
455
456He wasn’t a bad person at heart... No, he was a villain who was rotten to the core, but on rare occasions, he showed a soft side. However, that didn’t change the fact that he was normally an irredeemable individual. And just as Barbatos began cackling, a shortsword stabbed into the floor right in front of his eyes.
457
458“The hell!?”
459
460“Oh, sorry. My hand slipped. Next time I’ll make sure to bring it down on your neck.”
461
462“Apologize properly, dammit!”
463
464The one who taunted him without an ounce of timidness in her voice was Kuroka. She entered the room with a letter in hand, and was accompanied by Nephteros and an Angelic Knight. As always, Kuroka carried two shortswords. Though at this particular moment, one was in the ground in front of Barbatos and the other was at the ready to stab him in the face.
465
466“You bitch... What the hell do you think you’re doing!?”
467
468“Uh, I was just thinking of doing a little cleaning...?” Kuroka replied. Then, she turned her vacant eyes toward him with a cold gaze and cocked her head to the side before saying, “Please watch your mouth, Mister Sorcerer. If not for Lady Chastille, I would cut off your head here and now.”
469
470“You got some grudge against sorcerers or what?”
471
472“I’ll never forgive them for stealing my friends, family, and the light in my eyes...”
473
474“Crap, this one’s serious...” Barbatos muttered as he shut his mouth. Kuroka was on friendly terms with Zagan, who settled things between her and Chastille, but that didn’t mean she had suddenly forgiven all sorcerers. In fact, she was more wary of them than ever because Chastille seemed to trust them so blindly.
475
476“Kuroka, getting angry at him each and every time will only tire you out,” Nephteros said in exasperation.
477
478“...You’ve narrowly escaped death, Mister Sorcerer. Still, don’t just assume you’ll make it out safely next time, okay?” Kuroka said in a dry tone as she stomped on the end of the scabbard at her feet and skillfully sheathed her swords in mid-air.
479
480“Bring it on, bitch! Did you fucking forget I turned the tables on you last time!?”
481
482“Geez... Cut it out, Barbatos. You said you were coming to the gathering of elders, right? You should at least go prepare for the journey,” Chastille plainly stated.
483
484“Wait, you’re not gonna tell me to stay behind?” Barbatos asked as he stared at her in wonder.
485
486“You’ll just follow me anyway, right? In that case, stand by my side.”
487
488“...O-Okay,” Barbatos hesitantly responded as if he was unsure how to react. And just like that, he sank into the shadows and disappeared.
489
490Kuroka let out a ‘hmph’ as she gazed at his shadow with her tails standing straight on end, but Barbatos had left, so there was no one left there to react to her. Chastille grew impatient as she watched her do that and decided to call out to her.
491
492“He’s just teasing me, Kuroka. You don’t have to pay any serious attention to him.”
493
494“Lady Chastille, I’m fully aware that it’s impolite of me to say this, but that man is a monster. He’s a villain who’s rotten down to his very core. I won’t claim that all sorcerers are evil, but he definitely is. An Archangel like you shouldn’t be associating yourself with him.”
495
496What to do? I can’t deny any of that, but... Chastille was stumped by Kuroka’s sound argument. Luckily, Nephteros decided to throw her a lifeline.
497
498“That’s what makes him the perfect bodyguard. Barbatos is a greedy, selfish sorcerer, so he’ll never betray you as long as you pay him well.”
499
500“That’s certainly another way of looking at it, but...” Kuroka mumbled in discontent as Nephteros shook her head with her silver hair swaying in the air.
501
502“Wouldn’t that guy probably protect Chastille for free?”
503
504“Huh...? Why do you think he would do that?” Kuroka asked as both she and Chastille cocked their heads to the side. Then, Nephteros replied to her question in a matter-of-factly tone.
505
506“I mean, isn’t he in love with you?”
507
508Loaf...? Lobe? No, loan...? Maybe lode...? Chastille was unable to comprehend what she just heard. And after a while, vocabulary that made no sense at all in context went through her brain.
509
510“I’m telling you he’s head over heels for you,” Nephteros piled on those words in an attempt to stem Chastille’s stalling.
511
512“AWEGQWERGQQQ!?” Chastille blurted out some completely sounds, then said, “Wh-Wh-Wh-Wh-Wh-Wh-Wh-What are you saying!?”
513
514“What indeed, Miss Nephteros! Love? Please. If he does feel that way, then he’s more like a disgusting stalker!”
515
516“N-No, you don’t need to go that far...” Chastille remarked, still completely shocked.
517
518“Am I wrong?” Nephteros said, knitting her brows.
519
520“You’re completely wrong! I mean, it’s Barbatos!”
521
522“What’s that supposed to mean...?” Nephteros replied in astonishment. Then, she stated, “That guy’s voice goes up half an octave whenever he’s talking to you. Plus, he even started calling you by your name recently. And above all else, he’s always in good humor when you two speak.”
523
524“Um, uh, th-there’s no way...” Chastille muttered, looking shaken as the truth dawned on her.
525
526Now that I think about it, he did jump in and sacrifice himself to save me back when Kuroka first attacked... A sorcerer who only cared about getting paid wouldn’t have put their life on the line. And yet, Barbatos jumped in to act as her shield and allowed himself to be cut and stabbed numerous times. Chastille knew full well that he wasn’t a man who would do such a thing, so...
527
528“Besides, when you told him to stand by your side, his ears turned red. Doesn’t that mean he’s in love?” Nephteros delivered her finishing blow in a calm, steady manner.
529
530“S-Stop! Please just leave it at that! I-If you say anymore, I won’t even know how to face him...” Chastilled mumbled in an embarrassed tone.
531
532“Our best course of action is to finish him off, right? Don’t worry, thanks to my time with Azazel, I’m an expert.”
533
534“Stop right there!” Nephteros yelled as she grabbed the nape of Kuroka’s neck, stopping her from leaving to carry out her heinous plot.
535
536“You want definitive proof that he won’t betray us, right? Well, now you have it. Why would he ever betray the woman he loves?”
537
538“Um, well, that’s a good point, but...”
539
540That Barbatos... with me? Chastille thought the idea impossible, but for some reason it was also hard for her to completely deny it. And while she agonized over those feelings, the Angelic Knight next to Nephteros formed a strained smile.
541
542“Please stop, Lady Nephteros. Most women don’t enjoy talking about their love lives in public.”
543
544“Is that so?”
545
546“Yes. Do you not have any experience with it yourself?”
547
548“I don’t. After all, I’m nowhere near as old as I look,” Nephteros said as she shrugged her shoulders. In truth, it hadn’t even been a full year since she was created. She was terribly hurt by the fact that she was just Nephy’s clone, and was still worried about it, but oddly enough, Chastille couldn’t sense even a hint of agony in her voice.
549
550It seems she’s at a point where she’s fine speaking about it now... Chastille was basically praying that was true, as nothing could have made her happier.
551
552“I’m sure you’ll eventually meet a man who treasures you more than anything else in the world, Lady Nephteros,” the Angelic Knight said in a charmed manner.
553
554“I wonder if there’s anyone out there with such bad taste...”
555
556“There definitely is. In fact, I guarantee it.”
557
558She may be observant, but she’s completely clueless when it comes to herself... This particular Angelic Knight, Richard, was part of the patrol that bumped into Nephteros when she was being attacked by the chimera. After recovering from his wounds, he kept trying to interact with her as much as possible, which made it clear he was in love with Nephteros.
559
560“...Sir Richard, please hang in there,” Kuroka said as she let out a long sigh. Her ears practically flopped down in disappointment as she watched them interact. Richard, however, merely formed a strained smile in response.
561
562Let’s just not think about Barbatos’ matter for now. I’m sure it’s just Nephteros’ imagination... Chastille thought as she finally got her mind and breathing in order.
563
564Unfortunately, a new question suddenly popped into her to mind and threw her into disarray once more. What do I even think of Barbatos...?
565
566It hadn’t even been a week since she realized she was in love with Zagan, so Chastille found herself unable to answer that question.
567
568◇
569
570“Stop right here, Foll!” Zagan yelled at Foll as she tugged him through Kianoides. Incidentally, because they could find no clothes that fit Zagan, he simply lopped off the pieces of his usual robes to make them fit, then tied the rest together.
571
572“What’s wrong?” Foll asked as she looked back at him and curiously tilted her head.
573
574“What’s wrong? Do you even need to ask? Why are we going to this shop of all places!?”
575
576They were currently in front of their usual clothing shop. Zagan used it often, and the clerk there was someone he was on good terms with, but...
577
578“You bought my clothes here. They have stuff for boys, too. It’s okay.”
579
580“...You don’t get it. If Manuela sees me like this, I’m doomed.”
581
582“Huh? But Nephy said she was a nice person. You shouldn’t be in any danger.”
583
584That wasn’t a lie or anything, but Manuela also didn’t have much in the way of self-control. Unfortunately, the two of them caused quite a commotion right outside the shop, which obviously attracted attention.
585
586“What’s with all this noise?”
587
588The door opened with a clank, and out came the avian clerk with green wings, Manuela. This woman was one of Nephy’s best friends, which meant Zagan held her in high esteem, but... she often turned into quite the nuisance when it came to clothing people.
589
590Wait, I’ve only ever seen her toy with girls. Maybe she doesn’t any interest in boys... Plus, there was also the chance that she didn’t dare fool around with him because he was an Archdemon. Still, Zagan raised his guard just in case as Foll stepped up to her.
591
592“We’re here to buy clothes.”
593
594“Huh? Hm...? Um, I don’t think it’s possible, but... are you Foll?” Manuela knit her brows as she asked that question.
595
596“I am,” Foll responded. And at that point, she finally remembered what she looked like, so she spread out her arms and span on the spot.
597
598“I got bigger,” Foll explained as the cloth around her chest burst open once more. Zagan had to fix her clothes in an instant to keep her from being fully exposed.
599
600“I keep telling you not to make any sudden movements...” Zagan muttered, drawing Manuela’s attention to him.
601
602“Um, sooo, who’s this kid?”
603
604“Zagan.”
605
606“Pffft,” Manuela snorted before bursting into laughter and saying, “How!? He’s so cute! How did you end up so amus... so deligh... joyful? Hmm... Well, whatever. You’re all amusicute now, Zagan!”
607
608“Don’t just make up words!” Zagan roared as he wondered why she gave up on finding the proper word so easily.
609
610“Geheheh, well, let me hear all the juicy details inside. We’ve got two paying customers here!” Manuela scooped Zagan into her arms and walked him into the shop as he was lost in thought.
611
612Oh, I see. It had nothing to do with me being an Archdemon. Manuela’s just not interested in adults... As he was dragged inside, he spotted another familiar face.
613
614“Welcome!”
615
616The girl with fluffy white ears who welcomed them with a smile was a vulpin. Her “uniform” was a one-piece dress that looked similar to what Nephy wore. The main differences were the frilly lace all over the dress and the headband that fit snugly between her ears.
617
618“Kuu? Why the hell are you here?” Zagan asked.
619
620“Hm? Do you know me? Well, even if you do, you should respect your elders. Otherwise, this scary lady might just treat you like a toy!” Kuu’s fluffy ears quivered about in an annoyed manner as she said that. It seemed like she didn’t notice that the child in front of her was Zagan.
621
622Maybe it’s better this way... Acting like an innocent child seemed preferable to having more people know about his situation. And so, he bit down on his lips and formed a faint smile.
623
624“S-Sorry, Miss Kuu. I saw you at the church before, so I just blurted that out without thinking,” Zagan claimed. Then, a loud thud resounded from behind him, and when he turned around, he spotted Manuela rolling around the ground with her hands on her stomach.
625
626Fuck! I’ll remember this... Even if she was Nephy’s friend, she really was going too far. The way she behaved reminded Zagan of Gremory, which made a shiver run down his spine. And having interpreted the expression on Zagan’s face as one of regret, Kuu pat his head to comfort him.
627
628“Is that so? Heehee, it’s good that you apologized right away... Oh, but you should really work on that smile of yours. It looked just like Mister Zagan’s does when he’s picking a fight.”
629
630Does she remember what happened when Bifrons took control of her body? Zagan’s face stiffened as soon as he heard her say that. Kuu went through a lot when Bifrons manipulated her, which was why Zagan asked Orias to wipe her memories. Though, looking back on it, he didn’t recall her actually accepting his request.
631
632Hm, it seems like I also suck at smiling... Zagan thought of the way Nephy pulled at her own cheeks to practice. And as he did, he realized that he had to put in the same amount of effort since he was her groom. That was why he pulled at his own cheeks. He’d assumed his facial muscles were still stiff, but it seemed like turning into a child had made them all stretchy. He kept stretching them over and over, and eventually, someone hugged him from behind.
633
634“What are you doing?” Zagan asked. He was confused about why Foll was hugging him so tightly.
635
636“Cute.”
637
638“Huh? Who’re you calling cute!?” Zagan protested. However, that didn’t deter Foll from rubbing her cheek against his. And when he tried to tear himself away, Kuu came over and pet his head once more.
639
640“Oh, boys really hate it when you call them cute, don’t they? But you know, it’s really not that bad because it makes us want to hug you!”
641
642“Grrr...” Zagan growled in annoyance. Though, thinking back, he did recall that Foll constantly hugged Nephy and called her cute when she was turned into a child. Perhaps that meant she just had a habit of hugging cute things.
643
644“Hm... You know, you kind of look like Mister Zagan. You’re all dressed up like a sorcerer, too... Are you related to him?” Kuu asked as she cocked her head to the side.
645
646“W-Well...” Zagan was rendered silent as he tried to think up an excuse.
647
648“Huh? What do you mean? Zagan is Zaghamph,” Foll tried to expose his secret despite his hesitation, but luckily, Manuela came in and silenced her by covering up her mouth.
649
650“This child is Zagan’s distant relative, Dagan. Oh, and this pretty lady here is his older sister, Farah. They’re Zagan’s guests, so mind your manners around them, alright Kuu?” Manuela said in an attempt to help Zagan hide his identity. Then, she silently whispered into Foll’s ear and said, “Play along, okay?”
651
652In an unusual turn, Foll was quick on the uptake, so she simply bobbed her head up and down in response.
653
654“By the way, who exactly is this ‘scary lady’ who treats children like toys?” Manuela asked Kuu as she turned to her.
655
656“Huh? What are you talking about? You must be confused! I just said that bad kids should be punished!” Kuu exclaimed as she straightened her back with a snap.
657
658Oh, I see. Manuela must already treat her like a toy... Zagan felt bad for her.
659
660“So Dagan is Mister Zagan’s relative? I wonder if you’ll look like him when you grow up? Oh, in that case, you should learn to be nice to girls before it’s too late!”
661
662She really does remember everything, doesn’t she? Zagan mercilessly thrust his arm right through her heart during their last meeting. Even if her memories were erased, that pain probably remained fresh in her mind. And upon realizing that, Zagan was overcome by a sense of guilt.
663
664“Um, Zagan seemed worried about that as well, and he said he wouldn’t do such mean things again. So, um, please relax. You won’t have any more painful memories. He won’t allow it.”
665
666Zagan was giving her his best attempt at an apology, but for some reason, Kuu’s face was turning red as she took in his words.
667
668“Hnnngh... Oh, what’s this feeling? Th-This is bad, Kuu. He’s just a kid,” Kuu mumbled those words as she pinned down her chest, then walked away while fanning herself.
669
670Well, I guess I should’ve known that comforting words weren’t going to be enough... In the end, he had probably just made her remember a painful memory instead of helping her get over it, and knowing that made Zagan droop his shoulders in disappointment.
671
672“Zagan, you shouldn’t be too kind to people in your current form,” Manuela said as she reached her wit’s end.
673
674“You think I was being kind? Please, I was just speaking my mind,” Zagan replied.
675
676“Uh... I mean, that’d be fine if you were your normal self, but when you’re all tiny there’s something about it that seems oddly charming... Even I find it hard to resist you right now...”
677
678“Ch-Charming...?” Zagan stuttered in a confused tone. Honestly, he kind of understood what she meant, but the concept also confused him, so he decided to save thinking about it for later.
679
680Hold on, isn’t she really similar to that granny...? He prayed that Gremory and Manuela would never meet, lest his life be ruined.
681
682“I’ll be careful...” Zagan obediently answered, which made Manuela face break out into a broad grin.
683
684“Alright, time to get you changed!”
685
686“No, I can pick out my own clothes... Hey, are you listening? Wait, what are you holding? Stop! Don’t get any closer!” Zagan desperately screamed for Manuela to stop as she walked over to him with a skirt and one-piece dress in her hands.
687
688“Fufufu, you’re a lot cuter when you’re shy... Foll, hold him in place so we can get this over with.”
689
690“Oh, okay,” Foll replied. Her body may have grown, but she was still the same innocent girl at heart, so she trusted Manuela wholeheartedly.
691
692“Stop, let me go... NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
693
694Several minutes later, Zagan was covered in frills and lace like some little princess.
695
696How dare she do this to me... Usually, Zagan didn’t go anywhere near the changing room, so he was unaware that entering it was the same as falling into the pits of hell.
697
698“Hnnngh! My eyes definitely weren’t wrong! You really do have potential! Be more confident in yourself!”
699
700“What confidence...? Don’t screw with me...” Zagan meekly muttered that, seemingly having lost his will to fight her.
701
702“Manuela, these are girl’s clothes. No more pranks,” Foll said as she tilted her head to the side in confusion. Then, she puffed out her cheeks, and contrary to Zagan’s expectations, Manuela’s eyes sparkled.
703
704“Wow, I should’ve known. You may have grown, but you still look adorable... Look, see Zagan right now? Don’t those clothes look good on him?”
705
706“They do, but I can tell he doesn’t like them, so stop,” Foll demanded. Zagan was shocked that his own daughter was sticking up for him.
707
708“Hm, I guess you’re right. Wow, you’ve become a proper big sister, Foll. I’m proud of you,” Manuela said as she wiped her eyes, which seemed to be on the verge of leaking proud tears.
709
710“Big sister...! Yeah, I’m... his big sister,” Foll said as she puffed out her chest with flushed cheeks.
711
712That part of her is still childish, but whatever... Zagan decided not to say anything because he found her actions cute.
713
714“Well, I guess that’s enough playing around. It was fun, but now it’s time to pick out some real clothes,” Manuela said as she squeezed down on Zagan’s shoulders. Then, she spun him around on the spot once. And just as he started to wonder what she was doing, his frilly outfit was replaced by a dashing suit that came complete with a puff tie. He was wearing rather tight clothes that made him look like an uppity noble, which would hold him back in a fight, but it did make him look good.
715
716I actually wanted her to get me something like this for my date with Nephy... Zagan has planned to ask for her help with that earlier, but there was no point now. After all, he wasn’t even sure if he would return to his normal form anytime soon.
717
718Foll stood and clapped with sparkles in her eyes as she watched Manuela change his clothes in an instant.
719
720“You’re amazing.”
721
722“Fufufu, aren’t I? Aren’t I? Go on, praise me more!” Manuela exclaimed. Her skills were rather impressive, but the fact that she was starting to act more impudent rubbed Zagan the wrong way.
723
724“...Are you a sorcerer?” Zagan asked, his confusion evident due to the look on his face.
725
726“I am simply the clerk of a clothing store. Nothing more, and nothing less. More importantly, what do you think of Foll’s clothes?”
727
728He hadn’t even noticed that she had dressed her, so he turned to her to take in the new sight. Foll was wearing a one-piece dress that had an elegant piece of armor over it. Both parts matched and made her look beautiful, so Zagan thought it was a good choice.
729
730“It’s a little tight, but also easy to move around in. Still, I don’t need armor. This thing’ll just get in the way,” Foll explained as she did a little twirl on the spot. Sure, Foll was young, but since she was a dragon, her body was still protected by her scales. They weren’t visible in her human form, but they still projected a sort of magical barrier that made all normal weapons and sorcery useless.
731
732“That’s not it, Foll. Your breasts are really heavy now, right?” Manuela asked as she shook her head at Foll’s previous statement.
733
734“How do you know?” Foll replied as she stared back at her in wonder.
735
736“I can tell just by looking. You see, they start to hurt your shoulders when they’re that big, but wearing a breastplate will lighten the load. Just think of it as underwear you have on over your clothes,” Manuela said as she thoroughly explained her reasoning.
737
738“I see. You’re amazing,” Foll responded, voicing her honest opinion.
739
740However, for some reason, all that talk of underwear had Zagan blushing. Wait, why do I find that so embarrassing?
741
742He could understand blushing if they were talking about Nephy’s underwear, but this was his daughter. No matter how big she got, he would never see her as anything else.
743
744Is my mind being influenced by my new body? When Nephy turned into a child, her mind also started to degrade to match her age. Perhaps he was experiencing similar symptoms. It seemed he didn’t have much time, so Zagan resolved to take action immediately. And just then, the door to the shop swung open.
745
746“Welcome! Oh, hi there, Miss Gremory!” Kuu, who had been watching them from from a far off corner, reacted to the intruder right away.
747
748“Hello. Oh my, your face has quite the lovely look on it, doesn’t it?”
749
750“I don’t really get what you mean, but thanks!”
751
752And the one to show up, was Gremory.
753
754Huh? Kuu knows Gremory?
755
756Gremory casually raised her hand and greeted Kuu, then immediately looked over to Zagan. However, instead of walking up to him, she stopped right in front of Manuela.
757
758“Welcome, Comrade Gremory.”
759
760“Good work, Comrade Manuela.”
761
762This town is doomed... Zagan was left speechless as he watched the two of them exchange salutes.
763
764Judging from their use of the term comrade, these two were already well beyond the realm of just acquaintances. The two who should never have met were already conspiring together. And while Zagan turned pale at that reality, Gremory finally addressed him.
765
766“I thought you’d come here. Looks like you finished changing without any problems. Well, I’m sure you’ll be happy to learn I managed to get in contact with my teacher.”
767
768“Oh, uh, good job...” Zagan said that and nodded as his expression began to cloud over.
769
770“Come now, it’s not like you to look depressed. Don’t worry, you have both me and my teacher on your side, so I’m certain you’ll return to normal in no time,” Gremory claimed as she puffed out her chest proudly.
771
772After that, Zagan and Foll followed Gremory out of the shop. And sure enough, what awaited them was—
773
774◇
775
776“I am truly sorry for all the trouble my foolish disciple has caused you,” Orias said that, bowed deeply, and apologized to Zagan as soon as they met. Like usual, she was wearing a hood that covered most of her face and a baggy robe to hide her high elf nature. In fact, her, Nephy, and Nephteros were likely the only living high elves in existence. And she also happened to be Gremory’s teacher, which meant she could easily manipulate her own physical age. However, the features of her face that could be discerned were those of an old woman, and her voice was also hoarse. Incidentally, Gremory had a large lump on her head and was weeping. The moment they met, Orias had brought her fist down upon her.
777
778“Um, no. This is due to my own carelessness, so I wouldn’t hold her entirely responsible...”
779
780“Do not spoil her. There’s the matter of what happened at the hidden village, too. Back then, she was using sorcery to watch you run around like a headless chicken.”
781
782“Alright. Rake her over the coals all you want,” Zagan said as his feelings of sympathy for her completely vanished.
783
784“My liege, I think it would be fine to treat me just a little more kindly...”
785
786“Ask for that after you reflect on your actions.”
787
788“Are you telling me that she did other things as well?” Orias chimed in.
789
790Being glared at by two Archdemons was more than enough to make Gremory kneel in silence.
791
792“I feel like I’ve been kneeling since this morning...” Gremory mumbled, clearly unhappy.
793
794“It seems you’ve heard the gist of things from Gremory, but I ended up like this after we failed in casting some sorcery. I’m looking for a way to reverse this transformation, so do you have any ideas? I intend to pay you back in a suitable manner, of course,” Zagan said as he turned to face Orias. Then, he bowed down respectfully to her, and Orias simply shrugged her shoulders.
795
796“There’s no need for you to act so distant. I already owe you a great debt. You brought my daughter happiness, which is something I can never hope to repay,” Orias stated before turning to Foll and saying, “And this one is the dragon girl, right? I’ve heard she’s your adopted daughter?”
797
798“Valefor. You can call me Foll.”
799
800“Well, in that case, you may call me Granny.”
801
802“Got it. Granny,” Foll replied with a completely serious expression on her face, which made Orias scratch the tip of her nose in a troubled manner.
803
804“...Sorry. I meant that in jest.”
805
806This person is always apologizing, isn’t she? Zagan formed a bitter smile as he mulled over her joke. It may have been Orias’ attempt to liven up the mood, but she seemed to have failed.
807
808“You’re Nephy’s mommy, so it’s not strange for you to be my granny,” Foll claimed as she cocked her head to the side in confusion. Orias gaped in surprise upon hearing that, then smiled pleasantly.
809
810“Nephy has quite the straightforward daughter, I see,” Orias said that, then cast her gaze over to Zagan and continued, “Now then, let me have a look. Show me your right hands,” Orias demanded. Then, Zagan and Foll held them out, and the Sigil of the Archdemon appeared on both of them.
811
812“Hm... It seems to be the same sigil.”
813
814“What does that mean?” Zagan inquired. Orias, however, simply touched the sigil without answering, and observed it for a while before letting out a groan.
815
816“This looks to be quite a troublesome situation. This is my first time seeing such a complicated curse.”
817
818“Is it hard for even you to dispel it?”
819
820“...You’re correct. Sorry,” Orias apologized, bowing her head deeply all the while.
821
822“Please raise your head. This is nothing for you to apologize about,” Zagan barked back, seemingly flustered.
823
824“For the time being, I’ll let you in on everything I can discern. First off, Zagan, your sigil has lost most of its power. At this point, even if I were to suppress its power with mine, it would likely only have an effect on you,” Orias claimed as she looked back up at Zagan apologetically. Foll also had a sigil now, but the main part of it was still Zagan’s, which meant the outward flow of power had no effect on Foll.
825
826“Next up, Foll. I’m sure you’re a child of an exceptional bloodline even among dragons. The power within you is from the age of myths. In other words, it is quite literally godlike. It’s so vast that I’m certain you could easily challenge most of the current Archdemons.”
827
828“I see...” Zagan muttered, then said, “Foll is the daughter of Wise Dragon Orobas, who was said to have lived through the age of myths, so that makes sense.”
829
830In an unusual turn, Orias’ eyes shot wide open in shock upon hearing that.
831
832“That’s... quite the hapless fate. It almost makes me want to believe in destiny.”
833
834“What do you mean?” Zagan inquired.
835
836“Marchosias was Wise Dragon Orobas’ sworn friend,” Orias stated as she turned to Foll with a gentle look in her eyes. Foll, on the other hand, audibly gulped upon hearing that.
837
838“Somehow, it feels nostalgic.”
839
840That was what Foll had said when Zagan first brought her to Archdemon Palace. That, plus the fact that Archdemon Palace was filled with mechanisms that utilized dragon spells, made Zagan wonder if Archdemon Marchosias’ power was something granted to him by Orobas.
841
842“Is this all a coincidence...?” Zagan mumbled.
843
844“I wonder... Marchosias’ successor somehow ended up adopting Orobas’ daughter... Makes you wonder if this is all a part of someone’s master plan, doesn’t it?” Orias asked, then once more turned toward Foll and said, “Going back to what we were talking about before. Foll, your power is something that should have unraveled slowly over a long period of time. The current situation was brought about by trying to artificially remove that limit. It’s almost like if all the water within an infinite well burst out at once and flooded its surroundings.”
845
846“It’s... all my fault...” Foll cast her gaze downward, blaming herself for all of Zagan’s misfortune.
847
848“No. That’s simply hindsight. If your power truly ran wild, then Zagan and my foolish disciple would be dead already. That’s why you should consider yourself lucky and learn from it,” Orias claimed. Her words were both kind and strict, which made Foll return a firm nod in response.
849
850That’s essentially what I should have told her... He could have used his change in form as an excuse, but Zagan knew that would be the same as lying to himself. Frankly, the whole matter just made him realize how inexperienced he still was.
851
852“Now then, as I explained, you’re currently like the flowing current from a broken dam. The key to it is the Sigil of the Archdemon, but that was washed away as well. To stop the flow, you need to either rebuild the dam or find the key. Both are extremely difficult tasks, but they are your only options,” Orias spoke of their path forward in a gentle tone. Her answer was quite vague, but Zagan felt like he grasped the full picture of the curse thanks to it.
853
854In that case, if we forcefully cut off the path we created, Foll would be in more danger than me... If they took away the source of water behind the broken dam, the lake would dry up.
855
856“Hm, perhaps this situation was brought about by your sigil, Zagan.”
857
858“What do you mean?” Zagan asked. However, instead of answering immediately, Orias held out her right hand.
859
860“This is my sigil. Can you tell that its shape is a little different from yours?” Orias inquired.
861
862“Yeah,” Zagan responded. It was something Zagan vaguely realized when he saw Bifrons’ sigil. At a glance, they looked identical, but Zagan and Orias’ sigils differed slightly in their minute details.
863
864“I’ve discovered something similar to these. Namely, the Sacred Swords of the church. Whatever’s carved on them appears to also be in Celestian.”
865
866“That’s correct. You could say that these Sigils of the Archdemon are a type of circuit created with Celestian. Though, it may be more accurate to call it a cipher. Unfortunately, reproducing anything similar would prove difficult even for me,” Orias replied. Zagan opened his eyes wide upon hearing that it was such an advanced technique that even an Archdemon would find it hard to reproduce.
867
868“Nevertheless, I killed some time unraveling this cipher. After all, time was the one thing I had in abundance.”
869
870“And what does it say...?”
871
872“It’s nothing all that impressive. Seal, power, connect, god, evil. Something along those lines. Well, those are about the only words with meaning, anyway. The others are all things I can’t even understand. However...” Orias paused for a moment there, and stared right into Zagan’s eyes before saying, “Within this sigil, there is a word that signifies the right hand.”
873
874“Right hand...?” Zagan mumbled, seemingly confused. As far as he knew, all the Sigils of the Archdemon were located on the right hands of those who possessed them. Did that have some kind of meaning to it?
875
876“Hm... I’ve already considered that it may be because the sigils always appear on a person’s right hand. However, that seems unrelated,” Orias said that, then pointed to Zagan’s sigil and continued, “The part of my sigil that signifies the right hand has been replaced by something that means heart on yours.”
877
878Zagan’s eyes shot open, and Orias gave him a silent nod.
879
880“To sorcerers, the heart is not merely the cornerstone of life, but also the furnace that gives birth to an enormous amount of mana. In other words, there is a high probability that your sigil produces the most mana among the thirteen. At any rate, it was Eldest’s sigil.”
881
882That was a rather shocking revelation, but one other point was on Zagan’s mind.
883
884The heart, the right hand... Each is a piece of a body. In that case, Bifrons’ sigil likely symbolized some other part of the body. And that made Zagan realize...
885
886“In other words, the Sigils of the Archdemon really do seal away the body of the Demon Lord...” Zagan muttered in a grave tone. That meant Zagan’s sigil contained the Demon Lord’s heart, which was like an infinite furnace of mana. It meant that Bifrons’ conjecture was correct. However, Orias let out a dubious voice.
887
888“Demon Lord...? Oh, is that how you refer to it? I see. It’s easy enough to understand.”
889
890Now that I think about it, only Bifrons called it the Demon Lord...
891
892“Well, what do you call it?”
893
894“Me? Hm, I’ve never actually given it a name. There was never any need. Oh, but let’s see...” Orias trailed off, then spoke in a somewhat nostalgic tone, “Marchosias called it... the Primordial Archdemon.”
895
896Zagan couldn’t tell what that signified. However, it matched the sigil’s name at least. After all, it was the Sigil of the Archdemon, not the Sigil of the Demon Lord.
897
898Still, I feel like all our assumptions are way off base... Unfortunately, Zagan was far too inexperienced to figure out how. An Archdemon of Bifrons’ level spent hundreds of years studying it just to create celestial mysticism, so a newcomer like Zagan had a long way to go before he could get to the heart of the matter. And as those talks came to an end, Orias finally relaxed.
899
900“Well then, I’ll try to search for a way to undo this curse, but don’t expect too much. A mere high elf can’t hope to compare to the power of legends.”
901
902“No, you’ve been a huge help already. Allow me to offer you my thanks.”
903
904After Zagan humbly offered his gratitude, Orias continued on quietly.
905
906“Also, Zagan, do you know about Liucaon? The island nation, I mean.”
907
908“Yeah. In fact, I got to know someone from there recently.”
909
910“I see. How fortuitous. This is the last piece of advice I can give you. Try relying on Liucaon. There are several secrets that remain there that have been lost to us for quite some time. The tools they use for rituals, which are called Holy Treasures, resemble Sacred Swords. Perhaps an ancient power resides there that can do something to combat this curse.”
911
912Zagan had heard that powers different from sorcery existed in Liucaon, and Gremory had even listed that as one of their possible choices, so that seemed like a good lead.
913
914It’s better than just sitting on my thumbs, anyway...
915
916“Do you know of the Continental Interracial Elders Conference?”
917
918“Of course. I am one of the last remaining elves, so I’ve at least heard the name.”
919
920“Would people from Liucaon attend?” Zagan asked.
921
922“Definitely. They’re one of the most important participants,” Orias replied.
923
924“Actually, I was invited too. I’m not sure who exactly will attend, but I’m thinking of making an appearance.”
925
926“What!? Why didn’t you tell me!? Just thinking of all the love power from all the races gathering makes me drool...” Gremory had a visceral reaction upon hearing that.
927
928“You must help me search for a way to undo the curse, you thoughtless fool,” Orias cut Gremory’s excitation off in a cold tone.
929
930“P-Please let me off for now! I promise to help once I get back from the conference, so just give me one free night!”
931
932“Have you been sincere enough with me that I would allow such a thing?”
933
934“You demoooooon!”
935
936Zagan and Foll returned to the castle, leaving the screaming Gremory behind with her mentor.
937
938◇
939
940“Pheeew, really, thank goodness. Mister Archdemon didn’t seem to, like, care about that conference at all,” Selphy said, seemingly in high spirits as she was stirring a pot of soup in the kitchen. She was in such a good mood that she even began humming. And as she did, her boss, who was preparing the main dish behind her, let out a groan.
941
942“Fool. My liege is unable to participate in that trifle because he is far too busy, but do you think you can use that as a reason to exempt yourself?”
943
944“Um, you mean, like, a representative or someone might have to go, so don’t start celebrating? It’s totally fine. Like I said, Mister Archdemon really didn’t seem to care. Plus, if he went, everyone would be all scared, so, like, this works out better!”
945
946Selphy spoke to the rather frightening man in a casual manner. Raphael’s face and conduct were terrifying, but a simple conversation was enough to realize he was a good man at heart. In fact, it could be said that he was the kindest person Selphy had met. Well, aside from Nephy, anyway.
947
948He spends a lot of time training me on the job, and praises me if I do well, too... He was always upright and honest, though not many people noticed due to his manner of speech. It was most unfortunate that his phrasing and choice of vocabulary was awkward and created misunderstandings.
949
950That part of him is a little like my friend from back home, though... Even Selphy had at least one person she could call a friend. She hadn’t spoken to her since fleeing her hometown, but her childhood friend was someone who spoke and acted much like Raphael. Also, she let Selphy sing all she wanted.
951
952“Hmph... It seems you’ve also come to a damn understanding of the wideness of my liege’s bosom. He possesses genuine ambitions, so he has thorough knowledge of techniques that can both destroy and tame the ignorant masses,” Raphael said as a sneer rose to his face.
953
954“Genuine ambitions... Oh, like, about Miss Nephy? Well, you’ve got a point there. Seeing them flirt, like, all day really makes him seem less scary.”
955
956This butler was a perfect fit for that Archdemon, in that both of them acted in baffling ways. The Archdemon was relatively easy to read, though. Especially when it came to the woman he loved. The way he ran about in confusion when it came to speaking to Nephy didn’t suit the aura of terror and majesty that generally surrounded Archdemons. And in those times, he seemed like just an ordinary clumsy boy.
957
958Still, he can, like, turn a whole boat into dust with a single punch... Basically, he could jokingly poke Selphy’s head and send her off to the afterlife. And in that respect, he truly was an Archdemon. Though, if all the other Archdemons were people like Zagan, the world probably would’ve been a far more peaceful place.
959
960“Hey! Pay some damn attention!” Raphael roared at Selphy as she got lost in thought. And when she looked up, she saw that the butler was aiming a fierce glare at her.
961
962“Eeek, did you find out I was thinking of having a little taste?”
963
964“You’ll ruin it. Get the pot off the fire.”
965
966“Oh, okaaay... Hm, how’s it taste? Wouldn’t it, like, be better if it was a lil’ sweeter?” Selphy said that, then immediately took a wet towel and brought the pot down from the fire. After pouring some of the soup into a small dish and tasting it, she cocked her head to the side. Raphael followed suit and tasted the soup as well, but shook his head instead.
967
968“No, this is good. The seasoning on the main dish is rather strong, so it will pair well with the taste of this soup. You’ve performed admirably.”
969
970“Yaaay! Mister Raphael praised me!” Selphy exclaimed as she threw her hands into the air in celebration. And at that exact moment, a tall therianthrope stalked into the kitchen.
971
972“I’m sorry to disturb you. My hands are free right now, so is there anything I can help with?”
973
974This therianthrope with a bushy mane and the face of a lion was Kimaris. Like Gremory, he was Zagan’s trusted retainer. In fact, the two of them were so powerful that they competed for the top spot among Zagan’s followers. However, despite that, he was so kind that he even dropped by to help in the kitchen when he had free time.
975
976“Indeed. You’ve come at a good time. We’ve just about finished here. Grab enough plates for everyone,” Raphael wasted no time and immediately barked out his orders.
977
978“Alright. Oh, Miss Selphy, those plates must be heavy, so allow me to handle them.”
979
980“Thanks, Mister Kimaris. Mister Raphael even praised my soup today, so I’m, like, totally confident about the taste!”
981
982“I’ll look forward to it, then,” Kimaris said, then tilted his head to the side and asked, “What shall we do about Sir Zagan and Foll’s portions? I believe they’re out at the moment.”
983
984“I haven’t been informed of when they’ll return, but we should prepare for them anyway.”
985
986Kimaris quietly accepted the butler’s orders, but then curiosity overcame him.
987
988“...By the way, did something happen today? I haven’t seen Miss Gremory around either.”
989
990“Hm... I’m certain my liege would have informed you directly himself, but a little problem occurred. Gremory is accompanying him on his hunt for a solution.”
991
992“...What did Miss Gremory do this time?” Kimaris asked as he began scratching his head.
993
994“Hey now, it’s not like the culprit is necessarily Miss Gremory!”
995
996Other sorcerers treated Gremory like a troublesome granny, but Selphy thought she was a good person. She often gave Selphy candy, and would gaze at her with a broad grin. Yet, Kimaris, who was supposed to be her closest friend, made a stern expression as he shook his head.
997
998“No, if it wasn’t her fault, Sir Zagan would have asked for my help as well. The fact that he didn’t must mean he doesn’t want me to feel guilty about Miss Gremory’s mistake. Though, I suppose it’s also possible that he simply did not have the time to tell me,” Kimaris said that, then paused and added, “Also, Lady Nephy scolded Miss Gremory yesterday. She seemed rather angry, so I’m certain it was her fault.”
999
1000“...Oh.” Selphy muttered. She couldn’t refute that last point at all. The very idea of Nephy getting angry seemed impossible, so there had to have been a good reason for it to happen.
1001
1002“Now that I think of it, Sir Raphael, did you manage to ask Sir Zagan about the matter we discussed?” Kimaris asked as he suddenly turned to look at Raphael.
1003
1004“Urgh... No, he’s been quite busy, so I haven’t had the time,” Raphael responded in an extremely vague way, which Selphy found quite strange.
1005
1006“Huh? Did something happen?”
1007
1008“It’s nothing important. It has nothing to do with you.”
1009
1010“Aww, come on! Aren’t we kitchen pals!? Leaving me out is, like, really mean! Please tell me!” Selphy threw a tantrum, but for some reason it was Kimaris who looked apologetic.
1011
1012“My apologies, Sir Raphael. I should have been more careful...”
1013
1014“It’s fine. It’s not actually something that needs hiding,” Raphael said that, then turned to Selphy and explained, “I’ve been having some strange dreams lately. They are likely the memories of a certain dragon.”
1015
1016“By dragon, you mean someone like Foll? Why would a human see those?”
1017
1018“Due to certain special circumstances, I have dragon blood flowing through me... Anyway, since the visions are so frequent, I feel like that dragon is trying to tell me something.”
1019
1020“I see. So that’s why the little lady is so attached to you, Mister Raphael!” Selphy nodded to herself, clearly pleased about whatever strange deduction she made.
1021
1022“...” Raphael and Kimaris both looked at Selphy like they were facing a dumb brat.
1023
1024“Well, they’re just dreams. It’s fine not to trouble my liege with such minor matters when he’s already in a bind.”
1025
1026“No, wait. If it’s about dreams, then my friend Lilith is, like, kind of an expert,” Selphy spoke those words in a worried tone. She felt Raphael may collapse if he carried that burden all on his own.
1027
1028“I know this may sound rude, but aren’t sirens more affiliated with an eternal slumber of sorts?”
1029
1030“Lilith is a succubus. She can, like, go into people’s dreams and play pranks on them. Sometimes, when I took a nap, she made me see a dream where I was killed by some sorcerers. Luckily, when I woke up, my big sis would totally comfort me!”
1031
1032“Are you certain you didn’t see those dreams after getting hit on the head...?” Raphael let out an astonished voice, but eventually gave in, made a strained smile, and said, “Well, if the opportunity arises, I’ll take you up on that offer.”
1033
1034“Well, I don’t really get many chances to meet up with my friends from back home. It’d be, like, totally awkward to show my face after all this time!” Selphy explained her predicament, which was also the reason why she was glad Zagan was disregarding the conference.
1035
1036“Raphael! Is that idiot Selphy around!?”
1037
1038Selphy heard a somewhat familiar tone, but the voice was that of a child she didn’t know. When she turned toward the source, she saw a young boy practically kicking down the door as he made his way into the kitchen. He seemed like an heir from some noble household, as he was wearing a dashing shirt and a stylish jacket. She felt like he resembled someone she knew, but Selphy wasn’t acquainted with any children. It was entirely possible that he had been abducted by one of the sorcerers.
1039
1040A kid? Did he get lost or something? Selphy stared at him in wonder, confused by the child’s sudden appearance.
1041
1042“Huh...? Sir... Zagan...?” Kimaris croaked out those words in a shocked voice.
1043
1044“Oh, you’re here too, Kimaris? Perfect. I was looking for you as well,” the child answered in a somewhat haughty tone.
1045
1046Why had Zagan’s name popped out of Kimaris’ mouth? Selphy assumed he must have been tired after all his work. It was either that or she’d heard wrong. She didn’t know who brought this kid to the castle, but she pitied the fact that he was stuck here. And so, Selphy puffed out her chest as she stood before the boy.
1047
1048“Hey now, you need to wash your hands when you enter the kitchen, you know? Mister Raphael will get angry if you don’t. And you won’t like his face when he’s angry!”
1049
1050“Shut it. More importantly, guide me to that conference or whatever it is. Right now.”
1051
1052“Man, you’re one arrogant brat. Listen, you can’t do that, okay? Only, like, Mister Raphael and Mister Zagan can be all haughty around here,” Selphy said as she knit her brows.
1053
1054“I’m telling you I’m Zagan!”
1055
1056“Oh, okay. I guess that makes me, like, Miss Nephy. Mister Zagan spends a good twenty seconds tripping over his words when he talks to Miss Nephy, so you should— Owowowowowowow!”
1057
1058Selphy was an adult. She puffed her chest out proudly and decided to play house with the little kid, but her face was suddenly grasped by him like an eagle grabbing its prey.
1059
1060“Why the hell do you know that!?”
1061
1062“Owowowowowowowow!” Selphy screamed in agony. She didn’t know why this kid was angry, but his strength was abnormal. And seeing that she would lose consciousness at this rate, Raphael cut in to stop him.
1063
1064“My liege. If you keep that up, she’ll die. Is that fine?”
1065
1066“Oh... Sorry, I miscalculated my strength. Are you alright, Selphy?”
1067
1068Luckily, the child let Selphy go before her head was actually crushed.
1069
1070“Sir Zagan. What is with that form? Like I thought... did Miss Gremory do something again?” Kimaris inquired.
1071
1072“No, she shares some of the blame, but it’s not really her fault... Hey, are you alright? Should I have Nephy treat you?”
1073
1074Since Selphy didn’t seem to be recovering from the pain, the child peeked in at her face with worry.
1075
1076He’s pretty violent, but maybe he’s not all that bad... Thinking that she couldn’t make a kid worry about her, Selphy put on a smile and stood back up... Well, she had tears in her eyes, but that much could surely be forgiven.
1077
1078“I’m okay! Your big sis here is a real tough cookie!”
1079
1080“Hey, I’m telling you...”
1081
1082As the child let out a troubled voice, Kimaris cut in to interrupt their display.
1083
1084“Miss Selphy, this child is Sir Zagan. Even Miss Gremory is capable of turning into a child and an old woman, right?”
1085
1086“Huh? You sure he isn’t, like, Miss Gremory’s grandkid or something?”
1087
1088“...”
1089
1090The entire group was dumbfounded by her stupidity. And so, they spent the next hour explaining that age manipulation sorcery existed, and that the boy before her was indeed Zagan.
1091
1092“No way! Sorcery’s, like, something that crazy!?”
1093
1094“What did you even think it was before now?” Zagan stared straight at Selphy with an exasperated expression as he said that.
1095
1096“I’m relying on you here, Selphy. Only you can help me return to my original form. Guide me to the conference,” Zagan requested.
1097
1098“But, like, I still find it hard to believe you’re a small Zagan. Plus, it’d be totally awkward to show my face to my family, so I don’t wanna,” Selphy began grumbling and griping in response.
1099
1100“You won’t help me...?” Zagan slumped his shoulders, looking defeated.
1101
1102“But, like, you were the one who saved me from that ship, and you even gave me a place to work. This time it’s my time to save you. Okay! I’ll take you to that conference!” Selphy proclaimed as she proudly stuck out her chest.
1103
1104“Really!? Thanks!” Zagan raised both his hands into the air to celebrate as he said that.
1105
1106Now that I think about it, this is, like, the first time anyone’s relied on me... Selphy was still scared of sorcery, but life in the castle was mostly comfortable, so she wanted to do whatever she could to protect that place of warmth.
1107
1108“Alright! Since that’s settled, let’s get ready. I have to bring Nephy along this time, so we need to thoroughly prepare for the journey!” Zagan spoke those words in an overeager tone.
1109
1110“Oh! Wait, can you, like, hold on a bit!?” Selphy called out to stop Zagan as he began dashing out of the kitchen.
1111
1112“Is something wrong?”
1113
1114“You’re not gonna return to the castle for a while, right? In that case, I want you to listen to what Mister Raphael has to say.”
1115
1116“Stop, Selphy,” Raphael raised his voice in a somewhat angry tone, but it was already too late.
1117
1118“...What do you mean? Did something happen?” Zagan asked.
1119
1120“No, it is not something that you need to worry about,” Raphael responded in an obstinate manner. He had intended to keep it to himself, but Selphy had gone and ruined everything.
1121
1122“Mister Raphael’s been having some really weird dreams lately, so he wanted to, like, consult you about... Eeek!” Selphy babbled on about his issues, which made Raphael aim a death glare at her. Selphy curled into a ball in response, but Zagan turned about to face him anyway.
1123
1124“Raphael. Speak.”
1125
1126“Urgh...” Raphael grimaced, but still found himself unable to deny Zagan’s request. And so, he reluctantly told him all about his dreams.
1127
1128“Orobas’ memories?”
1129
1130“Yes. It’s likely about the last battle he fought by my side. However, what worries me is that he was fighting something that seemed different from a demon.”
1131
1132“What does that mean? Wasn’t the demon you fought the one that’s now a chimera in Archdemon Palace?”
1133
1134“The one I butchered was that demon. However, that wasn’t the only thing on that battlefield. It seems Orobas fought something far more powerful than a mere demon...”
1135
1136“Impossible. The only one who could be that powerful is the Demon Lord. But...” Zagan held up his right hand, and a sigil of light glowed on surface as he continued, “The Demon Lord is sealed here. I’ve never heard of the thirteen sigils being broken.”
1137
1138At the very least, when Zagan first inherited the Sigil of the Archdemon, all thirteen were gathered together.
1139
1140“That’s why I also believe it to be impossible.”
1141
1142“...Then does that mean another major threat exists? No, that can’t...” Zagan mumbled those words with his head hung low, then shook his head. If such powerful beings popped up that frequently, the world would have been destroyed long ago. However, it was also true that Wise Dragon Orobas, who lived through the age of myths, couldn’t keep up with that enemy, so it had to have been extremely strong.
1143
1144“Got it. I don’t know the true nature of your dreams, but I’ll keep them in mind. Was that your only worry?”
1145
1146“No, there’s something else you need to know,” Raphael claimed as he shifted his focus over to Zagan’s right hand before saying, “It seems Wise Dragon Orobas and Archdemon Marchosias were old friends. Also, it may have been a friendship that spanned a thousand years.”
1147
1148“...I just so happened to hear about that from Orias. This is the first I’ve heard of it spanning a thousand years, though,” Zagan said as his eyes widened due to the sudden revelation. Thinking back on it, even though Zagan inherited Marchosias’ legacy, he knew nothing about his predecessor. Sure, he had suddenly died of old age, but Zagan wished he had left a bit more information behind in preparation for his passing.
1149
1150No, wait... Old age? I can’t be... Zagan was taken aback.
1151
1152“Raphael. When did you fight by Orobas’ side? This is important, so think carefully.”
1153
1154“Hm... It’s been about half a year now, so two months before I met you, my liege.”
1155
1156In other words, it would’ve been about one month before Zagan met Nephy. And from that, Kimaris definitely noticed what was on Zagan’s mind.
1157
1158“Oh... Sir Zagan, could that mean...?”
1159
1160“...Yeah,” Zagan replied as he clenched his teeth, seemingly astonished by his own ignorance.
1161
1162“That’s the exact same period of time Archdemon Marchosias passed away.”
1163
1164Am I an idiot? Why did I never suspect a thing?
1165
1166“Then... are you saying Archdemon Marchosias also lost his life in that battle?” Raphael asked as his eyes widened due to the shock.
1167
1168“It would be a reasonable assumption. Nephy only ended up at that auction where I bought her because he died so suddenly.”
1169
1170Originally, Nephy was set to be sold to Marchosias. It wasn’t out of the realm of possibilities that he intended to use her to further extend his lifespan, but if that were the case, it was even more strange that she was still alive. If his remaining years were that short, it wouldn’t have mattered whether demons or a Demon Lord was coming, he would have prioritized extending his own life. After all, most people would care about their own life above all else.
1171
1172“Now that I think of it, I heard a conversation in my dream. I don’t remember it very well, but I feel like Marchosias said something about sheltering someone,” Raphael remarked, taken aback by it all.
1173
1174“Sheltering? Not abducting, but sheltering? An Archdemon said that?”
1175
1176“I do find it rather odd, but isn’t it safe to assume he was talking about Lady Nephy?”
1177
1178Why would an Archdemon want to shelter her? Sure, she’s a high elf, but that isn’t a good enough reason. Given her race, the idea that he planned on using her as a sacrifice seemed far more convincing...
1179
1180Maybe I need to go over everything I know about Marchosias... They had likely learned all they could through discussing it between them, so it was time to move on. Plus, Zagan had to return his body to normal, which meant he had no time to waste.
1181
1182“I understand. At any rate, I highly doubt those dreams are a mere coincidence. It may be some sort of warning. I’ll keep my guard up as I travel, so don’t let it cloud your judgment.”
1183
1184“As you wish,” Raphael replied. Then, Zagan looked over to Selphy.
1185
1186“As for you... Well, good work.”
1187
1188“Huh? Did I do something?”
1189
1190“...It’s nothing, really. I was just thinking it’s good that we have someone as insensitive as you around.”
1191
1192“Ahahah, stop, you’ll make me blush with those compliments!”
1193
1194“Was that really a compliment?” Raphael asked as he looked over to Selphy. However, she paid his words no mind.
1195
1196“Oh, right. While I’m being, like, all insensitive, can I say one more thing?”
1197
1198“Are you self-aware that you’re insensitive...? Well, fine. Owing to the occasion, speak your mind.”
1199
1200“Um, Miss Selphy, it would be better if you showed a bit more restraint,” Kimaris said, completely on edge all the while, but Selphy simply puffed out her chest and ignored his warning.
1201
1202“Mister Zagan, you should, like, rely on those around you more! That makes people, like, totally happy!”
1203
1204“...Got it. I’ll keep that in mind,” Zagan blinked in surprise, then nodded with a strained smile as he said that.
1205
1206“Ooooh... You know, when you’re acting all honest and cute in this tiny form, my heart flutters! You should try talking like that to Miss Nephy, too!”
1207
1208“...Do you want me to crush your face again?”
1209
1210Zagan may have been tiny, but he was still the exact same person at heart. And so, Selphy turned white as a sheet as she vigorously shook her head.