No one's POV
Myu: Papa! It's morning! Wake up!
A young child's voice rang out through the second floor of a certain house in Erisen. The sun had crested over the horizon, and was making its way up the sky. Looking out the window, one could tell the weather would be great.
Sora: Haaah...
Sora rolled over in his bed. The young child, who was of course Myu, ran over to him to wake him up. She jumped up onto his bed and landed squarely on his stomach. The full weight of her body pressed down against him. She may have been a little girl of only four years, but people were heavy. She still weighed around 16 kilograms. If something that heavy slammed into a normal person's stomach, they'd normally groan in pain. Sora, though, barely felt it. Still, he wasn't too happy about being forced awake.
Myu: Papa, get up. It's morning. The sun's out.
Sora: Hey Myu. Good morning. I'm up, so you can stop slapping me now?
Myu had been happily slapping Sora's cheek to wake him up. He raised himself to a sitting position and lifted Myu off him. Her long emerald hair spilled out behind her. He smiled as he looked up at her. They really did resemble father and daughter.
Aishia: Mmm... Sora? Myu?
A tired voice called out to Myu. Sora pulled back the sheets to reveal Aishia, sleeping curled up in a ball next to him. Despite the fact that she'd just woken up, her hair wasn't messy at all. It glimmered in the sun, and her eyes shone like pink diamond. She blinked a few times. But what surprise them, Aishia was naked. Her long hair fell over her shoulders, covering portions of her porcelain-white skin.
Sora(mind): Crap!
Myu: Why is Big Sister Aishia naked...?
Sora(telepathy): Aishia! I thought I told you to wear clothes when Myu's here!
Aishia(telepathy): Sleeping with you was so comfy. I didn't realize my shirt disintegrate.
Sora(telepathy): Seriously!
Myu: You don't have any pajamas?
Myu asked innocently. She looked at Sora with pity, and he exchanged glances with Aishia. There was no way they could give this pure girl an answer that would corrupt her mind. After agonizing over it for a few seconds, Aishia came to his rescue. She gave a very respectable, mature answer.
Aishia: Myu, you will understand when your older.
Myu: I will?
Aishia: Yeah, you will.
With that, they dodged a bullet. Aishia would let Remia teach her daughter about sex. However, Myu wasn't completely convinced. She tilted her head and, after a few seconds of thought she asked another damning question.
Myu: Is that why Big Brother Hajime and Big Sister Yue always naked? And why those two always fight at night...?
Sora(mind): DAMMIT YOU TWO!!!!!
Sora: Myu. Listen up. You're still to young to understand. Don't worry about it. In ten years, no in twenty years you'll... grow to understand.
Myu: Why Big Brother Hajime and Big Sister Yue always fight at night...?
Sora: Just don't learn anything from Big Brother Hajime and Big Sister Yue at all okay?
Sora said with a gentle face, telling Myu that it's not her time. Myu had no idea what Sora was trying to say, but she nodded all the same. Satisfied, Sora began combing her hair with his fingers. Myu forgot all about what she'd been wondering before and leaned into Sora.
Aishia watched the proceedings with an amused look on her face. His overprotectiveness for Myu made him all for fatherly. Sora averted his gaze. Clearly embarrassed. The three of them sat there in the morning sun for a while longer until Kaori and Remia showed up, wondering why Sora still hadn't come down.
(Timeskip)
Six days had passed since they'd ridden Tio back to Erisen after clearing the Sunken Ruins of Melusine. They'd been staying at Remia's house, and since their return they'd been the talk of the town.
The party had spent the past six days mastering the new magic they'd acquired and repairing and improving their equipment. Though, with the great food and warm weather, they spent more time vacationing than preparing really.
Still, six days was a long time to spend even if they'd been both training and vacationing. The reason was of, course, Myu.
Sora(mind): It's been over six days since we got back from the Sunken Ruins of Melusine... and after that Shimmering Ocean yesterday. We need to... start get a move on...
Myu: Papa, what are we doing today?
Sora: Huh? Well, um... Probably maintaining our new equipment.
Myu: I see. I'll help.
Sora: Thanks...
Sora wouldn't be taking Myu with him on his travels any longer. There was no way he'd able to take a four-year-old girl into a labyrinth located on the other edge of the world.
Worse, the two other labyrinths were in even more dangerous locations. One of them was located in demon territory, in the Frost Caverns of the Schnee Snow Fields. The other was on the Divine Mountain, of all places. Both would require them to dive right into the heart of the enemy. It was impossible to leave Myu somewhere safe while he challenged those labyrinths.
Myu herself seemed to have realized that too. Every time someone tried to bring up the topic, she'd start acting extremely spoiled and make it difficult for anyone to mention it. They dragged out their training more than they needed to just to have an excuse to stay longer.
Sora: Still, we really need to get moving soon... Haaah, I'm going to have to tell Myu. You think she'll cry? Actually, she'll definitely cry... Man, this sucks.
Sora sat on the pier and sighed to himself. The girls were playing with Myu, while Hajime was transmuting new equipment. Sora was out making new techniques using the Gods Age magic that he obtained for their upcoming trials. When he'd first left the abyss he couldn't have cared less about anyone in this world, yet now he was depressed over parting with a single girl. He wasn't sure how to feel about that.
Sora: This is all your fault, Sensei...
Though his words sounded harsh, there was a gentle smile on his face. It had been Aiko's guidance that had led to such a shift in Sora's thinking. He was no longer willing to sacrifice anything and everything for the sake of his goal.
As he watched Aishia, Yue, Shea, Kaori, Tio, and Myu frolic around in the water, he realized he was glad Aiko had lectured him. Had he simply abandoned Myu in Fuhren, or decided to ignore Ankaji's plight, or just left Myu with Remia the moment they'd found her, chances were his comrades wouldn't have been smiling as happily as they were now.
It was true that leaving those people he'd saved to their plight wouldn't necessarily have caused Aishia and the others to be depressed. But still, he was certain they wouldn't be nearly as happy. He didn't have any proof, but he was sure of it. All because he'd taken Aiko's words to heart. He'd avoided going down what she'd said was a lonely path.
Sora: Guess she was right.
Sora smiled ruefully to himself. He watched as Myu skillfully evaded Aishia and the others in a strange game of tag. Despite the fact that they were all overpowered beyond measure and were working together to try and catch Myu, her swimming abilities kept her ahead.
Sora(mind): I never thought saying goodbye would be so hard...
Sora couldn't lie to himself. He sighed for the umpteenth time that day. The moment he brought up the fact that he'd be leaving, he knew he would end up marring her smiling face with tears.
As if sensing his worries, Remia swam up to Sora. She stopped in front of his legs, which were dangling in the water. Seawater dripped off her emerald-green hair. She'd tied it back in a single braid, and was wearing a light-green bikini. When they'd first met her she'd looked haggard, but thanks to the restoration magic they'd found in Melusine's labyrinth she was as lively as ever. It was hard to imagine she was old enough to be someone's mother.
Sora could see why every bachelor in town wanted to be her new husband, and had even started a fan club for her and Myu. Her beauty rivaled that of Aishia's, and she looked absolutely stunning in her bikini. Furthermore, because she was in the water, she was eye-level with his crotch. Sora, who'd been worrying himself sick over Myu, was taken completely by surprise.
Sora: Remia...
Remia placed a hand on Sora's knee and looked up at him. Her expression was one of gentle concern.
Remia: Thank you, Sora.
Sora: Where'd that come from all of a sudden? I didn't really do anything deserving of thanks, I don't think.
He looked quizzically down at Remia.
Remia: Well, you're spending so much effort thinking about my daughter's happiness. As a mother, I can't help but express my thanks.
Sora: That's... Guess I can't hide anything from you. And here I was trying not to be obvious about it.
Remia: Oh? Everyone knows. It also seems like Hajime and the others are also thinking the same thing, too. I'm so glad Myu met such wonderful people.
Remia turned to watch a topless Shea chasing after Myu, who'd stolen the top of her swimsuit as a joke. Then, she turned back to Sora and spoke in a more serious tone.
Remia: Sora. You've all done so much for us. Everyone has, really. Please don't concern yourself over this. Do what you must.
Sora: Remia...
Remia: After meeting you, she grew up so much. She used to be such a baby, but now she can think about others, beyond herself. She also knows that you have to leave. She's still very young, so she does tend to fall back on being a baby. But still, she's never said "Don't go", has she? She understands that she can't keep you here anymore. So...
Sora: I see. Man, I really am a coward. Letting a little girl worry about me. Alright. I'll tell her tonight. We'll leave tomorrow.
Sora(mind): Remia's right. Myu doesn't want us to go, but she also doesn't want to say that because she doesn't want to make it harder for us.
After having realized the depth of her resolve, Sora steeled his own.
Remia: In that case, we'll prepare a feast tonight. With all these new recipe that you taught me. It'll be a farewell party for you.
Sora: Sounds good... I'll be looking forward to it.
Remia: Ufufu, glad to hear it, darling.
Sora: Seriously, could you stop calling that. Ever since we got back from the Shimmering Ocean, you've been pretty seductive...?
Remia: Oh... Am I? My darling husband...?
Sora: Please stop adding fuel to the—
Before Sora could finish, a frigid wind passed over the two of them, and a voice colder than death interrupted him.
Aishia: Remia, when did you... I can't let my guard down around you.
Tio: Hmm, from this angle, it almost looks as if she's servicing My King. Exhibitionism... Wonderful!
Shea: Hey, Myu? Can I have my swimsuit back? People are starting to stare...
Aishia gave Remia a cold stare. She absolutely wouldn't allow her to marry Sora. This scene had played out numerous times over the past week. But after they returned from the Shimmering Ocean, Remia's been acting different. Everyone ignored Tio. Likewise, they all ignored the nearly naked crying bunny girl as well. Remia's smile didn't waver in the slightest, despite Aishia's stare. It was impossible to tell what she was thinking when she smiled like that, which was the reason Sora was still unsure if she was serious about marrying him or just playing around.
Sora(mind): Maybe that's just how widows tease people...
Sora's attention was diverted when he saw Aishia in her swimsuit. He'd seen it quite a few times already over the past few days, but it never failed to captivate him.
Aishia was in the middle of a fierce staring contest with Remia when she noticed Sora's gaze. She smiled seductively and turned to face him.
Sora: Aishia...?
At the same time, Shea came up to Sora from behind and pressed her massive knockers against him. Myu still had the top half of her swimsuit, so doing that was also a good way to hide her exposed breasts from view. Of course, having them pressed directly against his back only made things harder for Sora.
Sora: Shea...?
Tio too, was dressed in a rather erotic swimsuit. But in her case, the effect was ruined by her disgusting panting. Hajime threw a piece of metal at her to knock her out of it. He might have thrown it a little too hard, as it literally knocked Tio out and left her floating like a drowned corpse in the sea.
Sora: Myu...?
Myu: You can have it, Papa!
Myu, too, jumped out of the water, eager to join in the fun. She landed between Remia and Sora, then threw herself into his arms. She raised Shea's bikini up high, as if showing off her spoils of war, and placed it atop Sora's head. It seemed this was her gift to him.
Shea: M-Myu!? Why are you... Wait!? Don't tell me Sora asked you to steal it? J-Jeez! If you wanted my swimsuit, Sora, you should have just asked... I wouldn't have minded.
Aishia: You can have mine as well.
Sora: You too?
Aishia tone was flat, her eyes were emotionless as ever, and there was no emotion in her voice. However, there was a slight blush on her cheeks...and she looked somewhat embarrassed.
Aishia: I'll do anything for you, Sora.
Sora:~~~~~~
Sora covered his face with his hands, blushing to the tips of his ears. Hajime stared down at him coldly.
Hajime: That's a critical hit for sure.
Remia: Oh my, I suppose that means you want mine as well... Would you prefer the top, the bottom, or perhaps... both?
Sora Yatagami sat there, a bikini on his head, surrounded by three girls pressing their swimsuits against him. Water from Shea's swimsuit dripped down his cheek. Despite all the excitement, his expression was as wooden as a board. This situation was beyond surreal.
The male onlookers were all crying tears of blood. From that day onward, rumors began to spread across Erisen. "Watch out for that gray-haired womanizer. He's got a swimsuit fetish. He's a pervert who ran around town with a girl's swimsuit on his head."
(Timeskip)
That evening, Sora finally told Myu that he'd be leaving. She gripped the hem of her dress tight, and tried her best not to cry. After a protracted silence, she finally said something.
Myu: We can't see each other anymore...?
Sora:......
Sora didn't know what to say. His goal was to return home to Japan. He still wasn't sure how exactly he was going to do that, or even when he'd be able to. Miledi Reisen had told him he needed to clear all the labyrinths if he wanted to see his wish granted. It was possible he'd be forcibly transported back the moment he beat the seventh one. He doubted he'd be returning to Erisen before his journey was complete, so it was certainly possible this would be the last time she'd ever see him. The last thing he wanted to do was lie to her.
Myu: Papa, will you always be my Papa, even if we're apart?
Before Sora could come up with a reply, she followed up with another question. He gripped her shoulders and looked her squarely in the eyes.
Sora: If that's what you want.
Myu held back her tears and squeezed out a smile. Aishia and the others were taken aback. Myu's smile looked strikingly similar to Sora's when he was backed into a corner and up against a powerful foe. The two really were coming to resemble each other.
Myu: Then I'll say, safe trip. And, one day, I'll go pick you up later!
Sora: Pick me up? Myu, I'm going to be going somewhere really far away, so...
Myu: But if you can go, Papa, I can go, too.
Sora: Myu...?
Myu: After all, I'm Papa's daughter.
If Sora could do something, she could too. Myu was certain of it. If her Papa wouldn't be able to come back to her, then she'd just have to go find him. Of course, there was no way Myu could understand Sora was planning on traveling across dimensions to get back to his own world. Plus, it was unlikely that she'd be able to conquer the labyrinths on her own and chase after him to his world.
Despite her determination, it would be nearly impossible to actually follow Hajime to where he planned to go. Still, no one dared ridicule her resolve. No one dared to tell her it was impossible and that she should give up. They knew they shouldn't. No, they couldn't. Sora finally understood what Remia had meant when she'd said Myu had grown. Though they'd only spent a short time together, Myu had learned a lot from Sora and the others. And now, they were going to leave her.
Sora(mind): Can I really just leave her like this? No, I can't. I definitely can't.
Sora made his decision. He bound himself to yet another oath.
Sora: Myu, wait for me.
Myu: Papa?
Myu tilted her head quizzically. She'd sensed the slight shift in Sora's demeanor, but she didn't know what it meant. There was no longer any hesitation in Sora's gaze, only the steadfast resolve he usually showed. The same steadfast resolve Myu had learned to emulate.
Sora: Once everything's settled, I promise to come back to you. We'll all come back to see you again.
Myu: Really?
Sora: Yeah, really. Have I ever broken a promise?
Myu shook her head. Sora ruffled her hair.
Sora: When I come back, I'll show you my home. You'll get to see where I was born. I bet you'll be surprised. My hometown's a pretty different place.
Myu: I want to see the place where you were born, Papa!
Sora: Looking forward to it?
Myu: A whole lot!!
Myu jumped up happily. Sora's gaze softened as he looked down at her. Now that she knew she'd be able to see him again, there was no reason to be sad. Still beaming, she leaped into Sora's arms. Sora lifted her up and hugged her.
Sora: Don't do anything dangerous. Be a good girl and wait with Mama, okay? You're going to be good and help Mama around the house, right?
Myu: I will!
Sora smiled at their exchange and silently apologized to Remia with his eyes. Sorry for deciding all that on my own. Remia shook her head, met Sora's gaze, then nodded. It's fine, don't worry about it. If anything, Remia was thankful to Sora. Myu noticed Sora and Remia exchanging silent glances, and suddenly thought of something. She tugged on Sora's sleeve to grab his attention.
Myu: Papa, what about Mama? Can she come, too?
Sora: Of course she can...? But that all depends on your Mama...?
Remia: What is it, darling? You weren't thinking of leaving only me behind, now were you?
Sora: No, not at all, but... my homeland's on a different world. It might get rough around the edges, but its a wonderful place. Is it alright, with you, Remia?
Remia: Why would I not follow my daughter and husband?
Remia sidled up to Sora. For a moment, she really looked like his wife.
Remia: Now, Myu, please help prepare for dinner.
Hajime, Aishia and Yue quietly walked up to Sora.
Aishia: Are you really going to take them?
Sora: Are you against it?
Aishia and Yue shook their head and gazed gently into Sora's eyes.
Hajime: If that's what you've decided, then we don't mind.
Sora: I see.
Shea: It was a bit unexpected.
Kaori: Yes. I thought, given how you are now, you'd just say goodbye.
Tio: Fufu. Did meeting Myu change you a bit, My King?
Sora: I guess it's because I'm with you guys that I change.
Aishia: But what if we get transported right away?
Hajime, Aishia and Yue had been considering the same thing Sora had. There was no guarantee the magic that would return them to their own world would be something they could activate at will. It was certainly possible Sora wouldn't be able to fulfill his promise. If that really did happen, it would scar Myu forever. However, Sora just shrugged and smiled. Once he made his decision, there was no turning back. Aishia had known his answer before she'd even asked. She smiled back, noting the determination in Sora's gaze.
Sora: I'll figure something out. One way or another, we'll come back to see Myu, then show her Japan too. If the spell takes us back without any time to prepare, then we'll just have to find a way to come back here again. I'll hop between worlds as many times as it takes.
Aishia: Celia as well...?
Sora: Yeah. Celia as well. That's all there is to it.
Aishia: Yeah... That's all there is to it.
The two shared a knowing smile. Aishia was glad Sora had found something else he treasured enough to swear to protect. Sora, too, was glad he'd begun to change into someone kinder.
Myu: Papa! Dinner is ready!
Sora: Alright! Let's eat!
Myu: Yeah!
(Timeskip)
Myu and Remia saw Sora and the others off the next morning. And Myu gave him and the others a sea shell.
Sora: A good luck charm?
Myu: A charm!
Aishia: Thank you. It's lovely.
Yue: Yes, beautiful.
Hajime: It'll definitely come in handy.
Kaori: Thank you, Myu.
Shea: I will treasure this!
Tio: Me too.
Myu: We all have the same one!
With that, Sora knelt down in front of his daughter one last time. Giving Myu the biggest and the most radiant smile anyone had ever seen that it literally charm the girls in Erisen.
Sora: Thanks, Myu. Well... I'm off.
Myu: Safe trip!
She stepped in and begged Sora for another hug. Even if he'd promised to come back, she still wouldn't see him for some time. She was going to make the most of her time with him. Myu went to say goodbye to Hajime and the others, Remia smiled at Sora.
Remia: Please be carful.
Sora: Yeah.
(Timeskip)
A day and a half passed since Myu and Remia saw Sora's group off at Erisen. They'd been traveling through the rust-red desert the entire time. Brise roared across the dunes, heading toward Ankaji. Their eventual goal was still Haltina, but Kaori had wanted to try to see if her newly-acquired restoration magic could repair the damage done to Ankaji's oasis.
As its name suggested, restoration magic restored things to their original state. Even if healing magic hadn't been able to purify the toxins in the water, restoration magic could bring it back to its original, pure state. Or at least, that was what Kaori hoped.
As Ankaji was more or less on the way, Hajime saw no problem with stopping there for a bit. Besides, they hadn't had a chance to try Ankaji's famous cuisine last time they'd been there either.
Before long, the city's main gate came into view. Unlike last time, it was quite lively. There was a long line of caravans waiting to be admitted into the city. It looked like a proper center of trade.
Sora: That sure is a lot of wagons.
Hajime: Yeah... This might take a while.
Kaori: That's all food and water they're carrying in, isn't it?
Kaori was correct. The wagons contained all of the emergency supplies Ankaji had asked Heiligh for. They'd only just arrived. It seemed Lanzwi had also bought the food stores of every other passing merchant. At least, every passing merchant who hadn't asked for an exorbitant price.
As their immediate water supply had been compromised, Lanzwi knew he'd needed to stockpile large amounts of non-perishable goods. Not only did they not have water to drink, but they also didn't have enough to grow crops. He'd buy whatever food the royal treasury could afford.
Hajime drove Brise past the line of merchants shuffling uncomfortably in the sand and headed for the main gate. He had no intention of waiting out here for hours.
The merchants gazed in awe as a giant black box sped past them. A few of them screamed in surprise, worried a strange new monster had come to attack them. The guards all brandished their weapons, wary at this unknown object speeding its way to the gate.
A senior watchman walked out of the guardhouse to see what the commotion was, and instantly recognized Brise for what it was. He remonstrated his guards and ordered them to lower their weapons. Then, he sent off a messenger to the palace.
Sora and the others stopped in front of the gate and stepped out of his truck. They were heedless of the stares around them. Like always, the men were first stunned by the girls' beauty, then amazed when Hajime made Brise seemingly vanish into thin air.
Guard: I thought I recognized your strange vehicle! I see you've returned to us, Warriors of Ehit.
The senior guardsman breathed a sigh of relief when he saw Kaori. Sora guessed he'd seen Brise once before when he'd brought Bize in, or perhaps when he'd left for the volcano.
He'd assumed it was Kaori, the "Warrior of Ehit," that used it to travel around. That was more or less correct, so Sora saw no need to correct the man. It made sense that Kaori was the most well-known figure among their party.
Kaori: We have. The truth is, I've discovered magic that might help me purify the oasis, so I came back to try again. I'd like to speak with your duke about it if possible...
Guard: Can you really purify the oasis!?
Kaori: I-I think so. I'd need to test it to be sure, but...
Guard: I should have expected as much from one of Ehit's warriors. Sorry for holding you up. I've already sent a runner to the duke. It'd be best to wait here, so you don't pass each other by. Once he hears you've returned, I'm sure he'll head straight over.
The soldier looked at them all with great respect.
Sora(mind): I guess it makes sense, since we saved his city.
They were being treated like VIPs. Sora ignored the merchants' curious stares and let the guard lead them into the guardhouse's waiting room.
(Timeskip)
Fifteen minutes later, Lanzwi burst into the guardhouse, panting heavily. He really had come running. Sora once again realized just how much this city respected them.
Lanzwi: It... Well, I can't rightly say it's been a long time. Regardless, I'm glad to see that you're doing well, Sora-dono, Hajime-dono. We were beginning to grow worried when you didn't return. You and your companions are the saviors of my realm. It would have been quite a shame had you died without letting me thank you properly.
Sora: We are just a passing adventurer who happened to be here at the right time. And, as you can see, we're doing perfectly fine. Thanks for your concern. At any rate, it's good to see your emergency supplies made it in time.
Lanzwi: Indeed. Thanks to the food being brought in now and the reservoirs Yue- dono made for us, we should be able to last for a while. With this, we'll manage to avoid starving to death at least.
Lanzwi smiled tiredly. He'd been working nonstop these past few days to ensure his people had enough food. His exhaustion was clear, but so too were the results of his efforts.
Kaori: Duke, how does the oasis look?
Lanzwi: Warrior of Ehit... I mean, Kaori-dono. The oasis remains unchanged. We've managed to pump in more fresh water from underground and clear away some of the polluted water... but have otherwise made no progress. It will take at least half a year to remove all of the polluted water and replace it with clean water. And it will likely take an entire year, or perhaps even two, to get the toxins out of the soil.
Gloom settled over Lanzwi's expression. Kaori then explained that she might be able to purify it herself. His face lit up like the sun. He grabbed at Kaori's clothes and yelled "Really!?" with unbelievable zeal. She hesitantly backed away from him and nodded. Lanzwi cleared his throat and collected himself, realizing he'd acted improperly. Then, he implored Kaori to see if she could purify the oasis right away.
As that was what she'd been planning on doing in the first place, Kaori agreed and the party headed to the oasis. Like before, the oasis was completely deserted. Normally, it was one of Ankaji's most popular destinations, but right now there was no one there. Lanzwi frowned forlornly as he looked at the empty oasis.
Kaori stepped up to the shore and began casting. Though they'd all inherited the ability to use restoration magic, Hajime and Shea had possessed no aptitude for it as usual. In Shea's case, at least, she could sort of use it. She'd been able to internalize the magic to increase her natural regeneration abilities. On top of that, if she concentrated, she could increase her mana and stamina regeneration for some time. She'd turned into something completely superhuman at this point. Her body strengthening abilities had grown, and she'd become much more skilled at manipulating her gravity. Now, with the addition of automatic high-speed regeneration, she was basically a one bunny army.
Kaori had possessed the highest affinity for restoration magic, followed by Aishia, then Sora, then Tio, and then Yue. Yue was so used to her own self-regeneration skill that she rarely used healing magic. For that reason, her affinity for it was much lower. She was able to heal herself without thinking, so actually having to actively cast recovery spells was hard for her.
On the other hand, Kaori's job was Priest. Restoration and recovery magic were strongly linked, so her affinity for it had been the highest. She could use it more efficiently, and at greater range than either Yue or Tio. Though she unfortunately still needed magic circles and an incantation to cast, so Yue's version was still more useful in combat.
Kaori began her incantation. It was a long one. When she'd first started practicing in Erisen, it had taken her seven minutes to complete one spell. Now, she could finish it in three. The fact that she'd cut the cast time down by more than half in just one week proved she was plenty overpowered herself. Sadly, Yue's strength was beyond even that. It stung Kaori a little, but she'd already resolved not to wallow in her inferiority any longer.
An air of tranquil majesty descended upon the oasis as Kaori's magic set in. Lanzwi and his attendants gulped. They felt as if they were witnessing some holy rite that must not be disturbed. They watched with nervous excitement as Kaori finished her chant.
Kaori: Tetragrammaton.
Eyes still closed, Kaori thrust her pure white staff over the water.
A second later, the tip began to glow with lavender light. The orb of light traveled down her staff, across the surface of the water, and fell into the center of the oasis. The entire oasis began to glow with a faint purple light. Motes of light floated up from the water and vanished into the air. It looked as if the all the world's evil had been purified and sent up to heaven.
Everyone watched with rapt attention, so captivated that they even forgot to breathe. Finally, the spell ended, and the light faded away. Silence stretched on for some time after the last motes of light vanished into the air.
Sora, who was supporting a spent Kaori, eventually nodded to Lanzwi. Lanzwi snapped back to reality and ordered his attendants to test the water. They hurriedly cast their appraisal spells. Once they were done, they turned to Lanzwi with looks of disbelief. After a brief pause, they announced the results.
Attendant: The poison's gone.
Lanzwi: Are you sure?
The man spoke again, this time with more certainty.
Attendant: The oasis is clean! It's back to normal! It's been purified!
They all cried out in joy. All of his attendants dropped what they were holding and hugged each other. Lanzwi took in a deep breath, looked up at the heavens, and closed his eyes.
Kaori: All that's left is to purify the soil now. Duke, have you already thrown away the poisoned crops?
Lanzwi: No, we've only gathered them all in one place. There wasn't enough time or people to dispose of them. Don't tell me... you plan on purifying those too?
Kaori: If Aishia, Yue and Tio are willing to help, I think we can do it. What do you two think?
Aishia: Hmm, not a problem.
Yue: Very well.
Tio: It would indeed be a pity to see the food you worked so hard to grow go to waste. Allow us to help.
Lanzwi bowed deeply to all of them. Not only had they purified his oasis, but they were going to save his soil and his crops as well. Even if it wasn't a duke's place to bow his head to others, this was the only way he could think of to show the depth of his gratitude. That was how much he loved his city and its people.
Sora and the others graciously accepted his thanks and began to walk toward the agricultural district.
Just then, Sora and Hajime suddenly stopped and turned around. They cast about with Farsight, and spotted a group of people swaggering toward them. It looked like they wanted a fight. They were dressed in different uniforms than that of Ankaji's soldiers. From what Sora could tell, they were the templar knights who protected this city's church.
They surrounded Sora and his companions, forming a half-circle around them. A middle-aged man dressed in ostentatious white robes stepped out from between their ranks. Sensing the hostility in the knights' gaze, Lanzwi quickly interposed himself between Sora and the knights.
???: Lord Zengen... please step aside. Those people are dangerous.
Lanzwi: What is the meaning of this, Bishop Forbin? And what do you mean, they're dangerous? These good people have saved my dukedom twice over now. They're heroes. I will not allow anyone to speak ill of them.
Bishop Forbin scoffed at Lanzwi's words.
Forbin: Hmph, heroes? Watch your tongue, Duke. The Holy Church has declared them heretics. Defend them at your own peril.
Lanzwi: Heretics... you say? Preposterous, I've heard no such thing!
Lanzwi sucked in a sharp breath. Like most other people, he was a devout follower of Ehit. He knew what it meant to be branded a heretic, which was precisely why he couldn't believe that the saviors of his city were among their ranks.
Forbin: Of course you haven't. The decision was made just this morning. To think the heretics would choose to return now... Hehehe, such perfect timing, wouldn't you say? It's as if Ehit himself delivered them into my arms. Clearly this is a sign. He wants me to be the one to purge these nonbelievers. If I bring the pope their heads, I'm sure to be promoted...
His last words were spoken so softly that Lanzwi didn't catch them. Still, it seemed that Sora being a heretic was a fact. Lanzwi turned to his saviors. However, Sora didn't seem the least bit surprised. He shrugged his shoulders, as if he'd expected this all along. He met Lanzwi's gaze and silently asked with his eyes, "What will you do?"
Lanzwi furrowed his brow, but before he could say anything, Forbin continued with a sneer.
Forbin: Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some heretics to purge. I've heard you two are quite powerful, but I wonder how you'll fare against one hundred templar knights? Now then, Duke Zengen, kindly get out of my way. Surely you won't do anything as foolish as stand against the Holy Church, will you?
Lanzwi closed his eyes. Based on Hajime's personality, and his strange powers, Lanzwi could easily guess why the Holy Church had branded him a heretic. They couldn't afford to let someone as strong as him live, unless he was under their control.
However, when he thought of how powerful Sora and his comrades were, Lanzwi thought it suicide to stand against them. The humans would be wiped out fighting Sora long before the demons could even get to them. Had the pope grown mad? This whole declaration reeked of political maneuvering of some sort.
Regardless of the reason though, Sora was Ankaji's savior. He and his comrades had healed his people, given them water, destroyed the monster lurking in the oasis, and now had come back to purify their land.
Only a few seconds ago, he'd been racking his brains trying to think of how he'd thank them. Lanzwi opened his eyes and smiled at Forbin. This was a good opportunity to make his allegiances clear. He looked sharply into the eyes of the bishop, who'd begun to get annoyed that Lanzwi was ignoring him, and solemnly shook his head.
Lanzwi: I refuse.
Forbin: What did you just say?
Forbin was so surprised his eyes nearly bulged out of their sockets. It amused Lanzwi how certain the bishop had been that no one would dare refuse the authority of the Holy Church. He repeated himself, his words backed by an unshakable will.
Lanzwi: I said, I refuse. These adventurers saved my people. I won't let anyone raise a hand against them, not even the Holy Church.
Forbin: Y-Y-Y-Y-You godless bastard! Have you lost your mind!? Do you understand what it means to oppose the Holy Church!? You'll be branded a heretic too, you know!?
Forbin's surprise had transformed into rage. The templar knights all looked at each other in confusion.
Lanzwi: Bishop Forbin. Do the archbishops and the pope really not know what these adventurers have done for us? Without them, the oasis' poison would have destroyed this city. And from what I've heard, they saved the town of Ur and even rescued the hero's party. How could such great people be branded heretics? I cannot imagine the Holy Church's decision is a sane one. I, Lanzwi Feuward Zengen, implore the Holy Church to reconsider their decision. Perhaps the news that they have saved this city will convince the clergy.
ForbinL S-Silence! Our decision is final! This is the will of Ehit! Disobey him at your own peril! Duke, if you insist on protecting these heretics, then I will brand you, no all of Ankaji, heretics as well! Are you sure you want to do this!?
There was a glint of madness in Forbin's eyes. It was hard to imagine he was really a man of god. Lanzwi watched him coldly. Sora walked up to him and asked a question with a worried expression on his face.
Sora: Hey, are you sure about this? You'll make an enemy out of Heiligh and the Holy Church if you do this. Shouldn't you do what's best for your people?
Instead of answering, Lanzwi looked down at his attendants. Sora followed his gaze. They looked up at the two of them, closed their eyes, and, after a brief moment of consideration, made their decision. Their eyes glimmered with resolve.
Lanzwi: We won't go down that easy!
Seeing their reaction, Forbin reddened with anger and screeched a final warning.
Forbin: Are you sure about this!? You'll die here, you stubborn fools! And not just you, but your people, too! I'll turn this city into a sea of blood. I shall rain Ehit's divine wrath down on you wretched heretics!
Lanzwi: None of my subjects are so craven that they'd turn their back on the heroes who saved them. You claim you'll bring down divine wrath? The god I believe in would reward such loyalty. Perhaps it is your faith that is heretical, sir bishop.
Forbin was so furious that he stopped yelling and a cold finality settled over his face. He raised a hand, ordering his knights to attack. Before they could charge though, something whistled through the air and clanged against one of the templar knights' helmets. The knight looked down and saw a pebble. It hadn't so much as dented his armor, so he tilted his head on confusion. Before he could ponder on what it meant, more stones rained down upon the knights. They clanged loudly against the men's gleaming breastplates.
They looked up and saw the people of Ankaji had surrounded them. It seemed they hurried over when the light flowed from the oasis. They'd arrived in time to see the entire exchange between Forbin and Lanzwi. Not only had Kaori healed their sick and tended to them, but Sora and the others had braved the volcano's depths to bring back enough stillstone. Moreover, their beloved lord had sided with Sora and the others. Plus, the bishop looked clearly deranged, so they made their allegiances clear, and began hurling stones at the knights.
Forbin: Desist, citizens of Ankaji! These people have been branded heretics and enemies of god! Ehit himself wishes for their deaths!
Forbin desperately tried to convince the people. He thought they hadn't heard the declaration claiming Sora was a heretic, and hoped that informing them would be enough to calm their wrath.
The people did indeed stop and exchange confused glances with one another. Lanzwi turned and addressed his people.
Lanzwi: My beloved citizens of Ankaji. Listen to me! These adventurers just now purified our oasis! It is thanks to them that the symbol of our great city is clean once more! They even promised to purify our soil and our crops! It is because of them that Ankaji is here today, and it is because of them that our great city will be restored to its former splendor! However, it is not for me to tell you what to do. Let your hearts decide whether our city's saviors deserve our scorn, or our protection. I, at least, choose to stand with them!
Forbin sneered. He was certain the people wouldn't trust Lanzwi's word over the Holy Church's. However, his expression froze a second later. For the citizens had resumed throwing stones.
ForbinL Wh-What...
Forbin was at a loss for words. The citizens pressed forward, hurling insults along with stones.
Citizen 1: Fuck you! They saved our lives, we won't let you kill them!
Citizen 2: The Holy Church didn't do a damn thing to save us, but now you want to kill the people who did!? You're no holy man!
Citizen 3: They're no heretics! You're the real heretic!
Citizen 4: This has to be some kind of mistake!
Citizen 5: Protect Kaori-sama!
Citizen 6: Defend our lord!
Citizen 7: Kaori-sama, I give my life for you!
Citizen 8: Dear adventurers, run now, while you still have the chance!
Citizen 9: Hey, someone get Bize. Tell him to bring Kaori-sama's honor guard!
It seemed even the citizens were taking Sora and the others' side. They too hadn't forgotten who'd saved their lives. Their gratitude toward their saviors outweighed even their piety. No, that wasn't quite true. Rather, the nature of their faith had changed. They simply couldn't believe their god, the ultimate object of their worship, would want to harm his own warrior, or the people that traveled with her.
In other words, their faith in god remained unshaken, but their faith in Forbin had all but dissolved.
Sora(mind): Though I wonder if anyone really trusted a bishop like that to begin with...
The crowd of citizens continued to grow as word spread. Their individual strength was weak, but they already far outnumbered the knights. Forbin and his templars winced at the people's ferocity and took a step back.
Lanzwi: Bishop, this is the will of Ankaji. Will you please ask the Holy Church to reconsider their decision?
Forbin: Tch... Don't think you can get away with this!
Forbin ground his teeth in frustration. He shot one last hateful look at Sora before turning on his heel and stalking away. The templar knights hurriedly followed after him. Forbin disappeared inside the church, looking for something to vent his frustrations on.
Sora: Are you sure? I know it's a bit late to be asking this now, but you could have just not taken sides.
Sora looked at Lanzwi, a troubled expression on his face. Kaori and the others were worried as well. None of them wanted Ankaji to be destroyed because of them. Contrary to Sora's expectations though, Lanzwi's reply was unconcerned.
Lanzwi: I said it before, didn't I? This is Ankaji's will. Every man, woman, and child living within these walls owes you their life. That's a debt they won't soon forget. If I'd let the bishop kill you... I guarantee the people would have killed me next. The last thing I want happening here is a coup d'etat.
Sora: We could have taken guys like those easily...
Lanzwi smiled knowingly.
Lanzwi: I suppose so, which means you seven are even scarier than the Holy Church. It's true that you're our heroes, but I also really didn't want to make you guys my enemy. You guys use magic I've never even heard of, can slaughter monsters that would trample over my entire army, and you even conquered a labyrinth in the span of a few days. I can tell you care nothing for the authority of the Holy Church, and I'm sure a hundred knights would be nothing to you. I've already heard how you demolished a monster army tens of thousands strong, and saved the hero party from enemies who'd nearly killed them. You truly are a frightening bunch. I imagine this is the most important decision I have made in the many years since I inherited the position of duke from my father.
Sora wouldn't have blamed Lanzwi even if he had given them up to the bishop. Still, after weighing the two options, Lanzwi had chosen to side with him instead. Even if it had been for the sake of his country, he'd chosen to rebel against the Holy Church. That certainly was an important decision.
Sora smiled awkwardly. He'd been expecting this confrontation for ages, but he hadn't expected that other people would resolve it pretty much without him.
Sora(mind): I guess this is a result of not choosing a lonely path, too. Aiko-sensei really did have a point.
Sora thought to himself as he watched Kaori and the others converse happily with the citizens. Two days after they left Ankaji. On the road, they encountered a band of brigands attacking a merchant convoy near Horaud. There, they reunited with someone they hadn't expected to see...