Arifureta: Similar Story, Different World

Chapter 6: Similar Person, Different Persona

"Presenting our venerable Pope, Ishtar Langbard-sama, the High Priests of the Church of Saints, and our Lord Ehito's Apostles!"

The grand doors to the hall opened, and long procession of Apostles and Royals made its way along the red carpet that cut through the room. Pope Ishtar at its head, he was followed by a few priests, all including the pope wore regally white robes, denoting their high position within the Church of Saints.

Those pious enough bowed low as they passed by. Those with deep respect kneeled. And a fair few went so far as to plant their forehead where there shoes once were. Such was the power and influence of the Church.

Following behind, the class of Apostles, dressed properly for the event, walked along two at a time with the Hero, Amanogawa Kouki, taking the lead and the only two non-combatant jobholders, Nagumo Hajime and Hatayama Aiko, the rear. They all held their heads high, with quite a lot making nervous smiles as they waved to the crowd.

This brought a smile to many. Seeing their saviors arrive, they gladly welcomed the teenagers and one child-looking adult with applause and low bows. Not as much respect as the church, but in their case, a few bachelors and bachelorettes smiled charmingly towards the otherworlders while some nobles nodded in agreement from the side. A sign of the night going to be a long one.

However, if one had known about the actual number of Apostles summoned, they would notice the group was missing one. Where would an Apostle be on such a joyous occasion? Only a handful knew to look right behind them.

"Presenting the Royal Family, King Eliheid-sama, Queen Luluaria-sama, Prince Lundel-sama, and Princess Liliana-sama along with her escort."

At the mere mention of the Princess having an escort, the hall suddenly went abuzz. There had been no rumors of a suitor, nor had the Princess's marriage ever been discussed yet. After all, she was still shy a few months of her coming of age. Had there been news of a fiancé, many would have assumed it was the Prince from the Hoelscher Empire.

But there had not been any news from any envoys sent by Emperor Gahard D. Hoelscher.

So begs the question.

"Who is that young man accompanying the Princess. Have you heard anything?"

"No. Not of the sort. But he doesn't seem to be a Prince of any country."

"He certainly looks dashing. Do you think he's a suitor?"

"Hush. Such talk is rude. We shouldn't assume anything until they make an announcement."

"But you still agree?"

"Right."

'Princess Liliana seems to enjoy his company as well.'

Such was the talk among the crowd as soon as I stepped in with the Princess.

Goddamn aristocrats and their pish posh gossiping.

I hadn't been introduced as another Apostle and they probably did that on purpose. I can only think Ishtar ordered it to spite me. So I'm not an Apostle, just her escort, eh?

Still, this helped lower their expectations of me. I'm not her date, or fiancé, or an Apostle. I'm just a friend escorting the Lady. If anyone asks, I'm just at my Lady's service. Let them assume I'm a butler.

Stay low, stay hidden. Do not attract attention.

Thankfully, Helina followed behind us. If I needed confirmation, she would match my story as a witness in respect for my will as an Apostle. Having requested that I escort Liliana, I chose this as my condition. Of course, Lady Liliana was unaware of this so we kept quiet. Also, unlike the other dignitaries in this hall, only the servants, the Prime Minister, the Elder Court Mage and Knight Commander knew who I was.

Shit. Better avoid them to make sure the story sticks.

On that note, the maid and I followed the Royals until we took our positions in the center fore of the grand hall, ready and waiting Liliana's orders if she needed to make changes for the party. Surprisingly, this was why she was too busy to check up on me. She was the event manager for welcoming the Apostles. Huh. What an amazing child. To think this was all organized by a fifteen-year-old. I'm impressed.

That being said, I remained standing as Liliana sat down next to her family while the prick—I mean Pope made his welcoming speech.

"People of Heiligh, today we are blessed by Ehito-sama as we welcome the Hero and his companions," gesturing over to the classmates and teacher that stood awkwardly in rows before him, Amanogawa at the fore, Ishtar preached. "Know that starting today, we now have the power to fight back the demons invading our homes. With Ehito-sama's guidance, the Heroes will rise and save our race from those savage beasts. All in the name of Ehito-sama."

Yeah, sure. Kidnap a few kids, give em magic and shit, and you call it victory. Basic propaganda if I'd ever seen one. I didn't let it show on my face, but the bullshit he spouted on continued to sour my mood for every word. Soon, he was done. I purged all that crap out of my head. With the context all being 'praise Ehito' the rest was just a 'blah, blah, blah' for me. I let out a sigh as soon as Ishtar left the center stage for the King to take his place.

"Not a fan of Ishtar-sama?"

Helina whispered by my side. It was audible enough for me, but not so much for Liliana standing before us to notice.

"Not really," I whispered back. "It's just that being the believer of another god, I find Langbard-sama too zealous."

"That's a shame," she said. "I guess Liliana-sama will never get to enjoy sharing Ehito-sama's greatness with you."

Due to us being hidden behind the seats of the Royals, one would hardly notice the small smile she sent me.

"Then again, she would probably enjoy speaking of Anima with you instead." The small smile turned into a hidden smirk. "But she'd probably enjoy spending time with you, whatever you choose to do."

The implication was not lost on me. She knew her liege's feelings for me. I knew about Liliana's misunderstanding of mine. All in all, she wanted to support her Lady. I wanted the opposite of that. Helina most likely understood this from the moment I asked her to serve as my proof that Liliana and I were just friends.

Despite that, she still pressed me. Making me feel guilty about Liliana. She was just another maid of the palace to me. But she was akin to Liliana's best friend. She wanted the best for the girl. And no Apostle would be able to change her mind otherwise.

I feel that Helina would follow my request as per the agreement, but having chosen to support Liliana, this was probably a one-time thing.

"Please don't think so highly of me, Helina-san." I replied with an expression that showed I would remain humble and refuse for the Princess' sake. "Liliana-sama deserves more than that. Someone such as I am no good for her and should remain solely as a friend."

"On the contrary, Yamamoto-sama, I'm in no position to dictate what ought to be my Lady's." Her words denied me even that. "As her maid, I trust her to make the right decisions. I may be able to voice my opinion but convincing her to change her opinion of you is not in my authority."

Basically washing her hands of responsibility. True, Liliana would have to make her own decisions. She would be seen as an adult as soon as she came of age which was soon in the coming months. If Liliana's feelings were just as strong as Helina's resolve was, there would be no changing her mind.

I had this plan all thought up to ensure we would remain as friends. More for her benefit as there was no point in being so close to someone who would leave given the opportunity. It was not meant to be. At least, given the circumstances we were put in.

Had I met her on Earth or I and my family was born on Tortus, we could have become great friends. Maybe more. But this wasn't it. Not while I was trapped here. Given everything that I knew, she would probably think so as well.

Liliana's not stupid, but I lied to her when I said I would open an interdimensional gateway to get help. I would if I could, but I was just one boy way in over his head. Even if I do get it open, would the Japanese government, hell, any government, listen to the pleas of a country on the verge of annihilation by a race war?

Yes, they would.

Would they have Liliana's, her home and people's, best interest at heart?

No, they would not.

Because no one moves without benefit in our world. You may die fighting against demons and monsters here, but the people on that side could be just as demonic and monstrous with their decisions. If they judged the demons as negotiable allies, they would trade tech for magic. If they were instead probable test subjects to be experimented on, then maybe they would ally with the humans of Tortus.

But what about after?

This was a world with inferior technology and sciences but abundant resources, open space, and much, much more. On the smallest scale, this entire plane of reality was proof of deities, parallel dimensions and more. It was a goldmine. No, a diamond generator. A literal renewable resource with answers to Earth's greatest questions. Not one of them would let the opportunity to exploit this place pass.

If this world was saved by Earthlings, what could Tortusians give in exchange?

I was no optimist. I knew what the people of Earth could do in the direst of circumstances. What they were capable of. By signing that pact, I could go home. But then it would be me abandoning this girl and everything she ever knew and loved.

Do I really want to be that kind of monster?

I made that lie to prevent the Church forcing a war on me. If it fails, I could be, at best, trapped here forever and maybe in service to Liliana, maybe more. At worst, I would be executed as a heretic, a coward, a liar, or a fraud. Either result forbids me from seeing my home, my beloved family ever again.

But if it comes true, I would be selling this world and everything in it to the monsters of my world.

Either I fake it forever, living a life of falsehood and betraying the genuine feelings of this innocent girl. I could learn to care for her, and maybe her home, but it would cost me my own family.

Not a bad choice, considering I could live with the choice that I didn't abandon her. Will it be the same for my family, though?

Or I prove my claims true, find a way back, get help, and in the end, disappoint her feelings and sell off her world.

…

I'm selfish. I'm only doing it to go home. I shouldn't feel bad about giving up this world's freedom in order to get back to my family. I don't! Not at all!

…

And yet.

…

Why am I hesitating now?

"Yamamoto-sama?" I snapped my attention forward. Liliana had glanced to my direction and called me with concern. Ahh, I was making that face again, wasn't I…? I really am bad at hiding this. "Are you alright?"

"Just feeling a slight ache in my arm from today's practice, my Lady. I'll be alright."

I winked in her direction, causing her to glow slightly red. But it was enough to prevent her from asking more. I guess manipulating her in this way was convenient after all.

Ah, this twinge in my chest, is that guilt I feel?

For taking advantage of the girl, yes.

.

.

.

Breathing in, I sighed deeply.

Kousuke was right. I really did care too much for my own good.

"To hide your true feelings on the matter, you truly with to play the role of a dangerous man, Yamamoto-sama." Helina silently chuckled and whispered further. "Rest assured, no matter what you wish to hide, I know my Lady would still be willing to accept you. Her kindness is one of her greatest assets. That I can assure you."

"Of that, I have no doubt."

I merely nodded in response but refused to agree, keeping the truth from cropping up on my expression again, as it should have been. The truth, as it were, was something that would hurt her either way I chose.

'I promised her I'd show her my world. Even if she did see its beauty, there would be no hiding its ugliness as well. No such kindness would be able to forgive that kind of betrayal. If they did, I would call them a fool. But in Liliana's case…'

.

.

.

I'm the fool, aren't I?

Compromise this relationship correctly and I could leave Tortus with just her broken heart. But once I leave and fulfill that promise, that broken heart would be lucky to not break even further once the vultures of capitalism feast on this world's very soul.

Fail that, and I could end up alone, isolated. On my own in this world with a target pinned to my back and no support from the Royals. The Church could act as they wished and figuratively use me as a tool until I was worth nothing to them like a puppet.

Hell, I could say fuck it and join the war. At least, I'll die a hero instead of becoming their villain.

Those were my options.

The party's just begun but I had already begun to hesitate on my plan.

'Why is he escorting the Princess?'

It was a question that boiled the minds of all present. Many just took it as maybe a gesture of goodwill for Lady Liliana. A few were whispering about a possible engagement. But there were those who looked upon with genuine curiosity. They wondered 'Who exactly is that young man to be able to get in such good graces with the Royals?'.

The question was there, all for differing reasons of course. But there were also glares of contempt. Glistening rage at how the young Yamamoto Eichirou seemed to be flaunting his influence over the masses. How he stood tall, hiding behind the Royal family like they were his shields from divine punishment. Whispers of his heresy never left their lips. They simple stood calm, observing. Waiting.

Such was the unity behind the Church that worshipped Ehito. They would not move unless ordered to by their benevolent god.

However, not all were purely united in this belief. Some would rather take matters into their own hands. Donning a disguise and moving towards the kitchen, the most devoted of believers, or they believe themselves to be, chose to act now. Before the party had ended, they would have their retribution as Ehito would pass for them.

In his creations were the tools. All they had to do was use them. Unnoticed by all, the fanatic smiled.

And they believed, for their own sake, Ehito did as well.

Amanogawa Kouki considered himself a gentleman. With how proper he acted, how polite he carried himself, and how generous his character was, he believed himself to be the ideal gentleman. Being called a Hero in this world, he also believed he found his calling. 'To be the savior of another world' was somehow not all bad as it sounded. Unlike what a certain someone preferred to deny.

'What was wrong with wanting to save people?' he asked himself. 'It wasn't' was the immediate answer.

It was a thing that made sense to him long before anything else did. Before he became known as the talented honor student, he first and foremost thought himself a righteous young man. The ideal human being. One that everyone should try to emulate for the sake of a peaceful and just world.

Now, however, he was wondering why the exact opposite, a selfish coward that refused to hone his talents and save the innocents, was the one assigned to escort the Princess of the Kingdom instead of he, the Hero himself, who was trying to save the world. Didn't the Princess get escorted by the Hero? Why was he, the one most against staying here, being treated as such?

It just seemed… off for Kouki. It didn't register. Like putting meat on a peanut butter and jam sandwich.

He shook his head internally and regained his composure. He shouldn't contemplate too deeply on such things. He had already decided he would confront Yamamoto-kun sometime in the future. To convince him to stand and fight. He seemed like a reasonable enough kind of guy. There was no doubt in Kouki's mind that he would listen to reason, his reason, and join them. If he could, then maybe some time tonight.

For now, he should smile like a gentleman and greet the aristocrats that came so far just to meet the saviors of their world.

"It is an honor to welcome you and your companions to our world, Hero-sama."

"The pleasure is ours, Margrave Verdoben."

Kouki smiled back while he greeted as he shook the eager man's hand. It was large. Not muscular, not wide, just… thick with meat. The nobleman had probably never gone a day without a full course meal. It made his military uniform, pinned with numerous badges and ribbons to denote all the honors he had achieved in his service. A highly honored military officer meant he was respected by the military. This assumption brought a warm feeling in Kouki's heart.

It was probably because this noble had worked so hard to manage his land properly that his people had never experienced such hardships until now and they recognized it by honoring his military merits. A well-fed leader meant a well-fed populace and a well-respected soldier meant a well-guarded public. The proof was in the number of badges pinned to his coat as well as his 'healthy' disposition.

The man looked like a pig, but he probably had a heart of gold to be able to share his blessings to the people he had to manage and a resolve of steel to achieve such high military rewards by protecting his people.

It hadn't been a few minutes yet and Kouki already felt he should respect this man, despite his messy appearance.

"I hope our gifts are adequate enough. We grow them ourselves on land managed by my humble family."

"We appreciate them," Kouki smiled kindly back. "Our only worry is that there may have been too much."

The gifts in question were fruits resembling apples on Earth. Kouki had eaten them before, buying some from convenience stores as an early morning snack after training. But never had he seen such plump red fruits with yellow flesh that seemed to instinctively water one's mouth. He did wonder though, 'Why apples?'.

Maybe it was a produce found only in the Margraves' territory. It would explain why Verdoben-san was acting proud of his contribution. Such a kind gift won't be accepted without gratitude.

"You jest. Please, let me introduce my family. My wife, Naniche."

"Good evening to you, Hero-sama."

The noblewoman bowed to him and he reciprocated by kissing her on the knuckles. Quite the beautiful spouse the Margrave had landed himself. If Kouki was permitted, he would say the man was a lucky guy to have such a gorgeous wife. As for why she his half her face behind the fan, Kouki could only guess she was the shy type. With how intense she gazed at him, though, someone might say she was actually eyeballing him, or hiding a spark of interest in the young Apostle.

But not Kouki. A righteous man wouldn't say such things about a lady. Instead, he would say she was just shy but hid great curiosity beneath that demeanor. He completely ignored the fact that she was licking her lips from behind the fan.

"My daughter, especially, has been very eager to meet with you who come from another world."

"Good evening to you, Apostle-sama. My name is Naiv. It truly, truly is an honor."

The Margrave was keen, if not a bit enthusiastic, when he introduced his daughter to the Hero. When Kouki had heard from Ishtar that it was an honor for the masses to meet an Apostle of Ehito, he understood that this day was a big one for the child. He knew better than to embarrass her, so he replied as he normally would.

"Likewise, it is great to meet a lovely child such as yourself."

The young girl, only thirteen years of age, presented herself so, bowing low while shaking in her frilled dress, a bit abashed by the compliment. Kouki, unwittingly once again, set fire to the child's nervous system by treating her the same way he did her mother, with a kiss to the knuckles. Normally, such a gesture was reserved for those you fancy or could be used with this context to mean a sense of respect for the lady. But to such a young girl who had yet to debut in high society, such an act was considered the marking of her reaching adulthood, or at least wishful thinking of such.

Children always put great importance in the simplest of things. This fact was lost on Kouki as he simply treated the child like any other girl, politely and gentleman-like. And like all the women he treated this way, they would all fall for him, one way or another to be disappointed at misunderstood affection never meant to be.

Such was the way Kouki greeted the guests one after the other. The noblemen with respect even if he'd never met them nor heard of some horrid rumors about them. The noblewomen, he would show decorum befitting a gentleman, but more than a few would fall for the usual misunderstanding.

The queue was never short for the number of nobles that wished to greet the Hero, or introduce an obvious marriage candidate, never dwindled. All the while, the Hero of Tortus remained oblivious to the obvious yet unspoken fact.

To the children and innocent, it was an honor to meet an Apostle. To the adults and the cunning, it was an opportunity for status and fame.

And those that saw the truth despised such things.

'Really now, to stoop so low as to woo our saviors in there schemes. Have they no shame? They're supposed to be welcoming them and showing gratitude for coming to our aide. What good would it do to have them marry your children other than personal gain to improve your family's standing?'

The thought brought a sigh to her lips as Liliana stared in awe as well as disgust at the exchange between the Hero Amanogawa-sama and the Margrave of the East. With her skilled poker face, her emotions were unnoticed, concealed. Only those closest to her could actually see how much she hated such flattering attempts to seduce the Apostles.

'Why did they have to be so… upfront about it?'

Perhaps it was because she issued a request to her father to gather the fruits that resembled ones from Eichirou-sama's home world and the reward for contributing was to be first in line for an audience with the Hero. Maybe that had something to do with her sour mood. But then again, maybe it was just her aversion for such actions.

It was happening not just before her, however. A few of the other Apostles has already been approached by young noble bachelors, seeking fame and status by snagging one of them from their group. Most notably, the beautiful girls called Shirasaki-sama and Yaegashi-sama had been approached by what Liliana could only describe as a pack of hungry wolves.

She sighed in relief when they relented, however, even the single ladies of the audience tried their cue on the teenage boys. A few glances sent here and there, and some began to feel weak-kneed. Despite this, none of them actually approached the flirtatious girls. Liliana internally nodded her approval that none of the male Apostles had fallen for such feminine wiles.

Little did Liliana know that the primary cause they didn't respond was due to their lacking confidence.

However, the procession to pander to the Hero was not done, and Liliana was pained to sit through ten more minutes of blatant child advertisement. She wished she could coop up back in her study to either do some work or practice the piano even more.

Well, that and listen to someone else other than the falsehoods before her.

"It seems you don't find such things enjoyable, Liliana-sama."

"Eh?" Liliana, sat a bit away from the Queen and her little brother, quickly returned herself from her brooding to meet the eyes of her concerned escort. "Ah, it's nothing. Please, don't mind me."

She didn't want to bother him. Not when he, as her escort, was forced to stand behind her like Helina. But it seemed he didn't care at all. In fact, he seemed to know and understand what bothered her.

"Not to worry, my Lady. I share your sentiment. Such things were common in my world as well." The escort smiled knowingly at her before sending an obviously disappointed glance at the other nobles coming to introduce their marriage candidates—… er… children. "Worry not for only the simple-minded would aim for Amanogawa. He may be the Hero, but his simple nature won't bend easily to such attempts at seduction."

Eichirou-sama whispered such reassuring words to her. All the while, he smiled his usual honest way. The expression sent jitters through the young princess that she momentarily forgot she was bored.

She didn't really mind if the Hero got seduced by the nobles. She just found their methods crude and insolent. Had they set up the child to naturally get to know the Hero and assisted him along the way, she would gladly support their endeavors. But to use a child and the otherworlder as a tool or puppet for political gain, such things were vile and atrocious.

She was glad that someone, a certain someone specifically, thought so as well.

Liliana really couldn't thank Helina enough for suggesting this development. Had the maid not, she would have been escorted by the Hero and been given front row seat to observe the false compliments. Sitting in the back along with her dashing—Ahem…—along with Eichirou-sama was the better option.

He, at least, remained genuine to her for her own sake. Liliana appreciated that so very much. In a world of politics, a teenager bred to be a Princess didn't have time to enjoy simple and honest friendships. It was always preparation for a life of politics to come.

But now, with him, she simply lived. Not for anyone's sake, but her own.

Looking away before anyone caught her ogling her own escort, Liliana momentarily turned a light shade of pink as her face flushed in embarrassment.

'Calm down! You're a princess of Heiligh! Don't lose yourself now! Not in front of all these guests.'

She was a princess, yes She had been taught to keep a poker face and always remain composed as a princess should at times like these. But being forced to remain unruffled, after all she'd been contemplating on? It didn't sit well with her girlish side.

"Ahem. To have such people in high positions is a disgrace," collecting herself with a cough, Liliana chose to be humble for her people's sake. "I can't apologize to the Apostles enough for enduring such people, Eichirou-sama."

She would like to extend the apology to the children of the nobles who were most assuredly being used by their parents as pawns. A child should be given the opportunity to live their dream and work hard towards it. Not to be treated like an accessory to an Apostle.

"But it is only human nature for there to be ambitions to be superior over others." He placed a hand on her shoulder, preventing her from lowering her head. Instead, he chose to come closer, enough that it didn't mean much from an outsider's perspective, too much for her reddening face, to assure her. "You've done nothing wrong to apologize so much. In fact, I should be thanking you for organizing such an event for our sakes. You've worked hard enough, so please, keep your head held high, Lady Liliana-sama."

His thanks were all she could ever ask for.

The way his eyes conveyed gratitude from the depths of his heart was enough to turn the Princess into a tomato in a dress. She found it difficult to look at him straight with how sincere and honest he said it that she instead closed her eyes and tried to regulate her breathing, unable to stop the reddening on her face.

Liliana was sure of it now. This was way better than being an accessory to the Hero.

It wasn't that Liliana didn't like to associate with the Hero. Rather, she just preferred to do so with someone who just so happened to not be the Hero. More so since he acted on her behalf and treated her less like an object, and more like a princess. It was… as his stories went… romantic.

'BE STILL, MY BEATING HEART!' she internally screamed in joy and exasperation. 'You've only been friends for less than a week! Stop jumping all over the place over a simple 'thank you'!'

But then again, she would do anything to hear him say those words again.

'Uwawawawawawawa! STOP, STOP, STOPU!'

"Is something the matter, my Lady?" Eichirou-sama noted the silent but shaking princess. "If you feel faint, should I get you something to drink while Helina-san wait here with you?."

"N-No, I will be fine!"

She protested. Of course, she knew that if she didn't, he would be gone for a while. She didn't want that. Or maybe she did? She needed some time to compose herself too. Or maybe not. Maybe? No? Yes?! No?!

She had no idea what to do at times like these! Helina never mentioned what to do when your heart and head's choices didn't, no, couldn't compromise. And neither did her mother offer any good advice! What Queen/mother would tell her daughter to just 'push him down'?!

"Please accommodate me for a little while longer."

Her selfish side won out. What's more, her choice of words astounded even herself! How shameful. And yet, Liliana didn't feel bad about making the choice at all.

"If that is your wish, then I shall be here if you need assistance, my Lady."

Eichirou-sama nodded with another kind expression that would have most likely forced Liliana's legs to give out had she been standing. The hidden nuances in her words went unnoticed by most, bar the Queen who had been sneaking glances at her daughter and a few of the maids within earshot who remained silent and expressionless for the sake of their Lady. Lundel was too busy glaring at suiters vying for Shirasaki-sama's attention, ignoring his dear older sister's plight. And the king and pope were too focused on the Hero to even care.

Eichirou-sama's expression didn't seem to indicate if he knew what she might have meant by it. At least, Liliana was unaware he took the words' meaning to their extreme.

A drop or more of sweat escaped Eichirou, all the while the princess remained oblivious to it, too entrapped by her own shameful delusions and the conscience that struggled to keep it together.

Soon, the meet-and-greet with the Hero was done and the party was in full swing. The nobles all associated with one another, cracking jokes and congratulating others. To the eyes and ears of some of the clueless Apostles, the hidden barbs and rude implications of politics when unnoticed.

"We'll finally be able to strike back against those demons."

"Yes. Ehito-sama is with us after all."

"Truly. The Hero will be the spearhead to our counterattack."

"Have you heard? There've been rumors that the demons are gathering monsters and magic beasts."

"The Apostles will probably have to handle that sometime in the future."

"But as of now, the bastards have only been harrying the border."

"Count Heinrich, I heard you had another problem with the adventurer's guild. Is it related to recent developments?"

"Regrettably true, Earl Ulric. There have been a few monsters coming out of the Sea of Trees recently. They've been harassing our traders delivering certain goods and the guild that assigned men to escort them has requested we send more troops to deal with the problem."

"How disgraceful. It must be quite taxing, having to send your men to deal with the commoner's job."

"Quite ridiculous, I agree. The guild's standards have been dropping as of late. Too many worthless Blues not worth the Luta they are paid. If monsters hadn't let up this month, I wouldn't have been able to attend such a wonderful party. Hopefully, the Heroes will have done something about it soon."

"Yes. It's amazing that such young children would carry out the will of Ehito for the people's salvation."

"I agree. Speaking of children, I heard you brought your daughter along this evening."

"What a coincidence. I hear you brought your son. You aren't planning on offering another proposal again, are you, old friend? Persistence is admirable but there should be a limit."

"Worry not, old chap. I have recently decided my son would find a different path in life. He himself is not against the proposal so he intends to take things at his own pace. Preferably, by the end of the night."

"Hoho, I see. Then I wish him success."

"I wish you the same for your daughter."

Kousuke scrunched his brow as he took a sip from his glass of water. He had been offered some pleap fruit juice beforehand, however it smelled too sweet for his taste buds to handle. His creased brow wasn't caused by the beverage though.

The nobles here and there were exchanging pleasantries after they finished their greetings to the Pope, Royals, and Kouki. In that order. Kousuke understood what Eichirou had said before, about the Church being in power. This display only exemplified the fact that King Eliheid was just a pawn to the Pope who held most, if not all, the power.

Speaking of his friend, Kousuke nervously pulled his hair back. Well, he could have had Eichirou not already used his new Adhesive Spell as a makeshift hair gel. The sleek substance, neither solid nor liquid, had been spread all over Kousuke's head down to his scalp in evenly thing amounts. After letting it settle, the sickly brown color disappeared and allowed his coarse hair to be streaked back in its natural black color. This left Kousuke's normally hidden face on full display for all to see.

The lack of bangs to hide his gaze was annoying the boy. His eyes, that were usually concealed behind the long hair like a sniper's nest couldn't do its usual scrutinizing without drawing attention. For some reason, many had begun to notice him as soon as he laid their eyes on them. This was a new experience for Endou as he had always been the invisible one in the room. No exceptions.

People looked through him, never at him. Until today.

'Goddamn you, Eichirou.'

As much as he liked being noticed, finally, he did find it to be detrimental to his usual passive observation. He would keep an eye on those he found most interesting or eavesdrop an any nearby conversations. It's not a habit he had formed for dubious reasons, rather, it was his way of participating on conversations.

Being invisible had made it difficult to join in on simple exchanges among classmates. After he made friends with Jugo and Kentarou, he simply followed their conversations until he decided his own opinion was needed. Mostly to fill in the gaps of information the two required or maybe to dissuade them from doing anything stupid.

It also made Kousuke look like a stalker, but in no way was this ever his intention. Not at all.

He was also not a ninja.

'Goddammit, Eichirou!'

The discussions among the aristocrats was disconcerting, however. Had he not bothered to listen in to the subtleties in their exchange, Kousuke would have failed to notice the ulterior motives hidden in their words.

'They plan on having some of us marry into their families.' Kousuke gulped down the water until his glass was empty. "Crafty. But then again, politics."

Kousuke was aware of such things. He'd watched too many hospital drama and cross-class romantic soap operas with his family to not notice. The only thing that went unnoticed most of the time was him actually joining the family to watch it.

This thought made his eye twitch in annoyance but he shook it off soon enough.

The thing about those shows was that there was always a game between two or more political parties. A balance being threatened by external issues. This was the typical commoner-getting-married-to-nobility/wealth trope. But people of nobility or high positions of power also made relationships among their fellows for the sake of strengthening their positions or making allies.

An example of this was the historical figure of Nobunaga, who had his sister married off to a rival warlord for an alliance. Sure, that plan backfired when the rival betrayed the alliance, but the point still stands.

In politics, even people were tools, no matter their position or relevance.

By that logic, children of high positions as 'the Apostles of Ehito' were very much fruits of prestige just needing to be planted in their family garden. Once they bear a child with that family, claims of being a descendant of an Apostle would more or less grant the peerage a status of honor.

A long-term plan. Nonetheless, an effective one,. Eichirou had said that this place resembled the Papal Theocracy of Europe during the Middle Ages. Going by that, it meant a family with connections to their base religion would give the impression of being blessed by their god. Anyone with that much standing would be take advantage of the prospect for more.

Kousuke observed his glass as it glistened under the light of the halls. The moisture droplets streaked across the clear surface, remnants of the now empty flute glass.

'We would be milked dry like a resource until the next opportunity for them to gain more status.'

"Would you like some juice to drink, Apostle-sama?"

"Hm?"

Approaching Kousuke in his lonesome was someone unexpected. In actuality, the boy never expected anyone to come close to him. He had been leaning in a small corner isolated from mostly everyone, even the classmates. There was no way he would expect a noblewoman to come crashing his peace and quiet!

"Eh, uhm. Er."

He was unable to form words. How could he? The girl standing before him was a beauty in every sense of the word. Eyes shining as emeralds, face as fair as snow, a sea-green dress that emphasized her voluptuous assets, and golden locks arranged in drills.

'Wait, drills?!'

"Oh, I apologize." The noblewoman put away the flute glass of pleap juice and, from the maid who held a tray, grabbed another, clearer one. "Would you prefer water instead, Apostle-sama?"

"Ehhh? Uh…" Accepting the glass while she sneakily took his empty one, Kousuke nodded. "Thank you."

"Such words are unnecessary," she bowed low to pay respects. "It is an honor to serve… Apostle-sama?"

She tilted her head while looking up. It may have been a hidden question for him to introduce himself, which it was. But Endou had found it difficult to notice she hadn't done so yet due to the perspective he was being given.

'Melons. Definitely melons. With drills.'

"Apostle-sama?"

"Yes?" Kousuke's eyes shot up to meet her own, which, now that he thought about it, had gotten way too close for comfort. "Can I help you?"

"Oh, how rude of me." Lifting the side of her dress with her free hand, the lady about his age curtsied with a generous bow, and a similarly generous top view of her assets. "This one's name is Chloris Naiden, daughter of Baron Dulious Naiden and Baroness Kyrias Naiden. It is a great pleasure to meet you."

"Ah, Ko-Kousuke," the boy struggled to reply. "E-Endou Kousuke."

"Endou, is it?" she seemed to lick her lips as she repeated it. Her eyes sparkled with interest as she softly met his gaze, but Kousuke just thought it his imagination. "Again, it is an honor to know your name, Endou-sama."

"L-likewise, Naiden-san."

"Oh, please. Endou-sama, call me Chloris." She came close, closer than any woman had ever done so to the boy. Kousuke could feel his heart beating through his ribcage. "Better yet, call me Chloe."

"Ah, I ca-can't possibly, Naiden-san."

"Endou-sama," she pouted her lips and begged with her eyes. "Pretty please, call me Chloris at least."

The eyes were getting to him. Of all the assets and charms she was using in an attempt to get him to say her name, her eyes bore deep. Maybe it was because Kousuke had rarely spoken with anyone while maintaining eye-contact before, the exception being Yamamoto and forget anyone else, let alone girls his age, but the way she intensely stared back into his caused him to sweat buckets.

"Ch-Chloris-san, then." After a moment, he relented. Unable to deny her pleading gaze.

"Thank you very much, Endou-sama." She seemed satisfied with that. Or in any case, she wasn't about to enforce something more drastic like him calling her 'Chloe'. "Meeting a servant of Ehito has always been my dream."

'Ah, so she's a believer of the Church,' Endou internally sighed at his misfortune. "Is that so?"

"Yes," her smile seemed genuine. Like she fully believed the Church could do no wrong. "I've been raised as a child of Ehito and have always wanted to support the Church through my own abilities. Meeting an Apostle is like a reward all on its own. I thank you once again for this honor."

Her grasping his free hand was a surprise. Suddenly kissing it sent electricity running through his spine. He kept his face as passive as he could, but the gesture already had his mind overclocking to process the information.

"Ah, eh, um, Chloris-san?!," he stuttered incoherently.

"If there is anything you need, anything at all," Chloris' eyes burned with intense devotion. "All you have to do is ask of me, Endou-sama. As a believer of Ehito-sama, it will be an honor to assist you."

'She's crazy!' was all Endou could think about now. Eichirou had advised him to be himself, but Chloris Naiden's feminine charms as well as the fervent piety had knocked his mental state into panic. Unable to even respond properly, the advice for talking with girls was practically worthless. 'How do I get out of this? Someone, anyone, help me! Please!'

"Kora! Chloe-chan, you shouldn't cause trouble," another noblewoman entered the picture. "Can't you see you're being a nuisance to Apostle-sama?"

The new arrival was almost the spitting image of Chloris. Minus the green eyes, the lady in deep-sea blue was like a clone.

'Her sister, perhaps?' or so Endou thought.

"Please, forgive my eccentric daughter, Apostle-sama."

'Oh, her mother.' Kousuke's mind shut down. 'GOD, she looks too hot—I mean, young! Too young to be a mother!'

"N-No worries," he replied. "She meant nothing wrong after all."

"Your mercy honors us." The mother bowed while forcing her daughter to do so as well. "This Kyrias Naiden is grateful."

She seemed to bow even lower, causing a few other guests to look in their direction. The attention was now even more of a hassle than Kousuke ever dreamed it would become. Thinking he had enough, Kousuke tried to stop the gorgeous duo from making a scene.

"Please, Naiden-sama, raise your—"

"Call me Kyrias—, no. Call me Ria."

"C-come again?"

Endou was dumbstruck. Even this woman's eyes seemed to gleam with desire. Now that it happened twice, Kousuke truly felt he needed to escape. The flute glass of water in his hands had remained full, but somehow, Kousuke didn't feel like drinking at all. Running sounded like a better idea. Preferably away from here.

"My apologies for my family causing you distress, Apostle-sama."

Another arrival came. This time, in the form of a short and thin man with eyes hidden from view by long greying bangs. Kousuke had failed to notice his presence, but he had probably been waiting there the whole time to be noticed.

"Your family?" Kousuke fumbled. Thoughts no longer in working order.

"Indeed," he bowed, but more with manly respect than fervent devoutness, as he held out a hand. "I am Baron Dulious. It is a great honor."

'Finally, someone normal,' he thought as the boy took the man's hand and shook it firmly. "Endou Kousuke. A pleasure to meet you."

It had been easier than the other two who were now breathing down from either side of his shoulders. Now that he noticed, it seems like they had him surrounded.

'Eh?'

"I truly am sorry for the trouble."

Endou didn't see the man's eyes. But he could tell from the voice, he was honestly remorseful for what they two women were going to do.

Despite his will to escape, Kosuke couldn't. He was pestered with questions, insisted with help should he need it, and finally insinuated he marry into the family. All the while, the Baron could do naught but apologize as he faded into the background.

Endou then began to wonder if that would be his future.

The Baron had all but winked out of non-existence as his daughter and wife barraged Kousuke with attention. When struggled and succeeded in asking why they approached him out of all the other Apostles, Chloris had this to say.

"Well, it is embarrassing to say," she mumbled. "But having Endou-sama's sharp gaze rove all over my being, it felt like a premonition that I will, no, that I must serve Ehito-sama through Endou-sama. And I just…"

She flushed deeply, but her eyes didn't leave Kousuke's.

'BULLSHIT!' Kousuke wanted to scream. 'I DIDN'T EVEN LOOK AT HER FOR MORE THAN A MINUTE!'

As a matter of fact, looking was the only thing he had done. He didn't know where this premonition came from or why she interpreted it so. But that was all lost on her mother who just smiled approvingly.

"If my daughter's duty is to serve the Church of Saints, I would not deny her wishes. In fact, I had suggested she join their convent."

'THEN DO THAT INSTEAD!' Kousuke wanted to scream but couldn't.

"If it is Ehito-sama's wishes otherwise, then that should suffice."

"'That'?" the boy asked nervously.

"Please marry my child—"

"I'll have to politely decline." It was the first straight answer Kousuke had ever given the two women. They were gorgeous, yes. They were quite the characters, yes. But in no way was Endou Kousuke ever ready for such a commitment. "I mean no disrespect. However, I wish to focus on training myself and defeating the demons."

"Eh, Eeeeeeeeh?" Chloris, however, began to stutter instead. "Wa-was it so-something I sa-said? E-Endou-sama?"

"Not anything of the sort, Chloris-san. I just feel marriage won't work out given the current circumstances."

"I see," Kyrias-san, on the other hand, took it in a composed stride. "Then until you've accomplished your task, you don't think marriage is a viable option."

"Not in the near future, no."

"But… but… that's…"

Chloris looked mortified. Kyrias sad for her daughter. Kousuke, though, just sighed. He had dodged a bullet. He really felt bad denying a drop-dead beauty. But there was no way he could just get in there without getting ready for a life-long commitment.

"Dear, is there nothing we can do?"

Turning to face her husband, Kyrias-san asked for advice. Kousuke was feeling relieved though. There was no way they could be sure if they would be able to defeat the demons before Eichirou found a way back. Worse comes to worse, Kousuke could sabotage Kouki's party long enough before that happened.

It was a shameful tactic, but maybe it wouldn't come to that. After all, the Baron looked to be more sympathetic to his plight.

"We can't do anything until Endou-sama has done his duty." Dulious nodded in acknowledgement. "It would be arrogant of us to press him further. More so that he wishes to focus on our salvation. We mustn't be too greedy, my love, Chloe."

'YES! Thank you!' Kousuke would hug the man had he the courage but settled for an approving nod instead. "I thank you for your understanding."

"However, an engagement would fare better for now." Under the stern gaze of his wife and daughter, the Baron thought up a new way to ruin the rest of Kousuke's life in Tortus. "After all, once Endou-sama has accomplished the task given to him by Ehito-sama, there would be nothing left but to consummate the marriage, now wouldn't it?"

Kousuke's jaw drop while Chloris' eyes shone with hope.

"My dear, that's a perfect idea!"

'NO, IT WAS NOT!'

"Don't you think so, Chloe-chan?"

"Yes, mother."

'DON'T JUST AGREE WITH HER!'

As the two women went on in their own little world, planning for a marriage that was his downfall, Endou's eyes locked onto the Baron. The middle-aged man breathed deep and looked towards the boy. For a second, his eyes became visible from beneath the greyed locks of hair. Regretful in their green entirety.

'I'm honestly sorry for all this.'

Before he could even respond in anyway, Kousuke was whisked away by the mother-daughter pair to discuss future plans and his likes and dislikes.

"Getting to know you is one of the joys of a fiancé. You wouldn't deprive my daughter of such, would you, benevolent Apostle-sama?"

The insistent look of the mother and the pleading puppy-eyed expression of the child suppressed any will or attempts Kousuke had to resist. He was practically being dragged off into their own little world. His measly existence unable to hide him from such persistent people. Meanwhile, the Baron Dulious disappeared again from view. Maybe he was hiding behind him, but after checking, the old man was nowhere to be seen.

'He escaped? Dammit!'

Maybe it was a ploy to entrap him into their political game. Maybe Chloris-san was just an enthusiastic believer and her mother, Kyrias-san, was just misunderstanding things. Maybe Dulious was just using him to escape the two women. Either way, Kousuke was trapped and had no way out.

'Dammit, this is all Eichirou's fault!' he started his mental denial. 'If he didn't pull back my hair, I could have just been observing others in peace! Why did this have to happen now of all times! When I see him again, I'll—'

"Ara, ara, making new friends have you, Kousuke-kun?"

Right on cue, his friend, enemy, most beloved yet despised classmate made his appearance. Arms linked with Princess Liliana and their free hands holding up flute glasses of the horribly sweet drink, Yamamoto Eichirou, dashing as ever in a suit, smiled with a hint of mischief at Kousuke's predicament while Princess Liliana shone with a warm and welcoming expression.

"Ah, Eichirou!" He nearly jumped out of the two noblewomen's arms just to escape and bow towards the couple. "And Liliana-sama, good evening to the both of you."

"Good evening to you as well, Endou-sama." Liliana, angel as she was, smiled and addressed Kousuke's problem behind him. "I see you've met Baron Naiden's family."

"It is good to meet you again, your Highness. I, Kyrias Naiden, am grateful to see you in good health."

"And I, her daughter Chloris, as well, your Highness."

The two women bowed in respect to the princess.

"We thank you for your invitation to this lovely event."

"We heard you organized it for the sake of welcoming the Apostles. To that, we must congratulate you on its success."

Speaking in tandem, the two aristocrats politely greeted, thanked, and complimented Princess Liliana without missing a beat. Such was the honed skill of subservient nobility.

"I'm happy you've been enjoying yourselves."

Liliana replied with a genuine smile. But to Kousuke, it looked kinda practiced and formal. Like a polite mask she had grown accustomed to.

"Princess, I don't mean to be rude, but who is this man you're being accompanied by this evening?"

And then they turned their attention to Eichirou. The boy in question, however, did what he did best.

"Good evening to you both, my Ladies. I am Yamamoto Eichirou, a friend of the Princess. Tonight, I am serving as Lady Liliana's escort."

He didn't mention being an Apostle. Just a friend to Liliana. Kousuke wanted to ask why but didn't think it was the best of times to do so.

"Ara, a friend of her Highness?"

"That is correct, Naiden-sama. And I am a friend to the Apostles as well." Eichirou sent Kousuke a knowing glance before nodding and turning to face Kyrias-san once more. "Speaking of the Apostles, I apologize for my rudeness, but may I borrow Endou-sama for a while?"

"Whatever for, if I may ask?" Kyrias-san looked curious. Chloris, however, had placed a hand on Kousuke's sleeve. A gesture that seemed cliché to indicate she was scared, but Kousuke felt it was more so he couldn't run away from her.

"The Princess wishes to meet with the other Apostles to get to know them better. As her friend and the one escorting her this evening, I suggested introducing them all at once. That way, everyone could enjoy the evening longer rather than waste time approaching them individually."

"But wouldn't it convey more respect if you'd approach each Apostle exclusively?" Chloris seemed adamant on not leaving Kousuke's side, but Eichirou was not one to be defeated in an argument now. Or Kousuke prayed for, at least.

"That may be the case for nobility, however, I have learned that the Apostles care not for such formalities. Rather they see it as an unnecessary." He visibly glanced towards Kousuke. On cue, Endou nodded in agreement to which even Chloris pouted in defeat. "Worry, not, Naiden-sama. I promise to return him once our business with my Lady is done."

'Please don't!' Kousuke wanted to shout, but Eichirou's smile was so threateningly ambiguous, the boy decided to remain silent for fear of worse. And he thought this afternoon was bad. Kousuke didn't wish to poke any more holes at Yamamoto ever again. Not that he even knew what he did to deserve such treatment.

Thinking about it, that treatment had probably led to this predicament in the first place!

"I guess we could allow some time before we resume our talks." Before Kousuke could lose his head, Kyrias-san quickly conceded to Eichirou's request while Chloris reluctantly released his sleeve. Maybe it was more in respect for Liliana rather than his friend, but in any case, the noblewoman didn't dispute it further. "Chloe-chan and I have a few more people to greet tonight, so please."

"I thank you for your generosity, Naiden-sama."

"No need for that. It is for the Princess' sake, after all. Well then, we'd best be off to finish our pleasantries. Excuse us, your highness."

"Please, the night is young. No need to stand around and bother yourselves for my sake and enjoy yourselves."

"See you later, Endou-sama!"

The duo waved at Kousuke as they took their leave. The boy in question just smiled and waved back, albeit reluctantly. Standing next to him, Eichirou was stifling a chuckle.

"What's so funny?" the boy demanded.

"Pfft~ nothing really. Would you like some juice? It's like apple juice from Earth."

"It is quite delicious." Even Liliana was recommending it.

"No thanks," however, Kousuke took one look at the glass and its sweet-smelling content and looked away. "The flavor's too strong for my taste."

"A shame. Then, how was your evening, 'Endou-sama'?" Eichirou cleared the hidden chuckle but the sarcasm remained. "I trust you've been behaving yourself."

"Shut up you jackass, this was your fault to begin with!" The two's casual exchange was typical of friends. But then, Kousuke remembered that he wasn't alone with Eichirou right now. "Ah—! I apologize for my language, Liliana-sama."

"No, no! It's no problem for me, Endou-sama." The princess just waved it off before bowing in turn. "I should be the one to apologize for letting you see such a disgraceful display among nobles."

When Kousuke didn't seem to get it, Eichirou stepped up to explain.

"What my Lady is trying to say is that she's sorry for letting their politics ruin your evening."

"Our nobles are really fervent believers of Ehito-sama after all. Apostles such as yourselves would be like a physical manifestation of Ehito-sama's will and would be seen as prizes to be claimed."

"I realized that as soon as the talk jumped from handing me water to a marriage proposal." Kousuke's words seethed with annoyance. The talk wasn't even a talk. They just sped past him before he could have a say in the matter. "Thanks for the warning."

"Eheheh," Liliana made a regretful smile. It reminded Kousuke of Baron Dulious but more filled with life than the defeated one of the middle-aged invisible man with a thin existence akin to him. "I truly am sorry for all the trouble my Kingdom has caused you."

Kousuke didn't really hold the girl at fault for anything. She may have felt responsible for her people, but she couldn't do anything to stop them at all times. Politicians were the same. Not everyone in power could stop those beneath them from doing their own thing without anything short of martial law or the punishment of death. And the girl was too far off from anything that drastic. The girl's remorse was acceptable.

"I, too, am sorry for having a hand at that."

His friend's smile, however, was anything but remorseful. It ticked Kousuke off in more ways than one, but he would let it slide. For now.

"Eh? Did you do something, Eichirou-sama?" in surprise too his response, Liliana tilted her head.

"Indeed, my Lady. Just this morning, after training, Endou-sama came to check on me out of concern for my health. When the topic of the party came along, I saw it fit to help him get ready." Kousuke glared at the boy as the 'help' was unnecessary. "I mean, wouldn't you say Endou-sama looks more handsome with his hair pulled back, my Lady?"

The princess gave him a look up and down. Endou felt embarrassed for a girl checking him out, but Liliana did so out of respect as a friend of a friend and nothing more. Something the other noble teenager did for very different reasons.

"I have to agree with Eichirou-sama. Your current appearance fits well in a formal setting. Had Eichirou-sama not identified you as a friend, I would have possibly mistaken you as a noble from the Empire."

"Th-Thanks, I guess."

Kousuke took the compliment as it were, but still blushed while looking away. It all disappeared when he noticed Eichirou was trying to stop another chuckle escape and resulted him nearly stepping on the guy's foot.

"So, why exactly are you 'borrowing' me tonight?" Getting back to the excuse his friend used to relieve him of the noblewomen, Kousuke's neutral glare returned. "Unless you plan on tossing me back to the wolves."

"I meant what I said. Liliana-sama wants to meet with the class. I was going to introduce her to Hatayama-sensei and the other girls, but could you get Kentarou and the others as well?"

Kousuke nodded. The problem was past and it wouldn't do to keep seething at his friend. But looking around, he had to ask.

"What about Kouki?" he nodded to the Hero still accompanied by the Pope.

"Amanogawa can wait." Eichirou dismissed the most important person in their group without a care in the world. "He's busy right now, and I doubt Ishtar would put much importance in the Apostles thanking the real organizer and host of this party."

His friend said the last bit only for Kousuke to hear. Glancing at Liliana and then to the Pope, King and Hero, Endou saw his point. The way the pope relegated the king to the sidelines despite his position made it clear that the monarchy played second fiddle to the Church. That being the case, there was little reason for Ishtar Langbard to show at least the minimum respect for the girl.

"Got it. I'll call them over." Before he made to leave, however, Kousuke glanced around once more. "What about Hajime?"

"Wasn't Hajime-kun in attendance?" Eichirou asked, surprised. How could he not. They both knew Hajime came in with the class during the entrance. And yet he was nowhere to be seen. Looking around as well, Eichirou sighed and replied. "I'll escort Liliana-sama to the girls first. Then I'll look for Hajime."

"Then, I'll help after I go get the others. Please excuse me, Liliana-sama."

Giving the princess a bow, Endou turned and left to find his other friend. Eichirou, meanwhile, apologized for keeping the Lady waiting and guided her to the circle of Apostles that went mostly avoided by the nobles due to the protective ring they made around a certain small teacher.

'Now, where are the others?' Kousuke asked himself.

Finding friends in the crowd was easy. Well, it usually was for Kousuke. Normally, he was perceptive and invisible. Being able to sneak past strangers and find people he knew would have been a piece of cake.

Tonight, though? He was neither. His eyes were exposed, making it hard to look anywhere without gathering attention. Said attention made it difficult to look around. Such was his current problem.

And he still blamed Eichirou for having something to do with it.

His eye twitched in annoyance as he spotted the thirsty wolves in the distance and changed directions to avoid them.

'Eichirou owes me for this, the prick.'

"Ganbare, Ai-chan-sensei."

Hajime watched as his short and adorable teacher turned down another suitor. Taking a step outside the crowded and bustling hall, Hajime enjoyed the view from his spot on the balcony outside. He had a clear line of sight to the classmates where he stood and he enjoyed the cool night air as well.

Looking towards his class, it would've been a victorious scene. Especially for the fan club. They had tried desperately to keep the bachelors away from their angel, but when the suitors were about ten to thirteen years old, it became hard for Ai-chan to deny their proposals while not making them cry.

'Ah, another one. Oh no, this one's already crying.' Hajime smiled apologetically for his teacher. 'He must've seen what she'd done to the others before him.'

Raising his glass of water to toast the young man good luck, Hajime sighed inwardly.

At the beginning, the responsible adult in her forced Hatayama Aiko to step up and obstruct the teenage nobles trying to pick up some of the girls. Not a second later, an elderly lord took her hand and bowed in respect, only to suddenly offer his grandson's hand in marriage.

The scene was shocking to say the least. More so that said grandson was only nine years of age. But maybe it was expected of the high society in Tortus. Age differences of ten years or so were negligible as long as both parties had status and wealth. Judging by how they all assumed the classmates ages just by looking, not a single Tortusian present would take Hatayama Aiko as an adult as everyone else was around sixteen to almost eighteen.

Even in Tortus, Ai-chan was treated as a child. How cruel to the poor teacher.

But the teacher aside, there had been several ladies to approach the boys from Japan. One or two had already approached Kouki. And by 'one or two', Hajime meant 'one or two dozen'.

'In another world and yet he was still popular.' Hajime shuddered at the thought. 'Whatever god blessed Kouki really has bad taste.'

Not to say that he hated Amanogawa, but Hajime could just never see eye to eye with the guy.

For starters, he was ignorant of all other things besides him being right. Being right wasn't bad. It just made him seem arrogant to only view things his way. Hajime felt really bad for Yaegashi to have to look after the buffoon.

Another thing he didn't like about Kouki was that he failed to even look at others properly. When he kept telling Hajime to 'fix himself', Hajime could never understand what was there to fix in the first place. He had his life on track. He was pursuing his dream as he should be.

Even if the grades and lifestyle he had were average to below, Hajime never found it detrimental to achieving his dreams of being a game programmer. Even his parents approved of it. Sounds bad, but when you consider that his mom was a shoujo mangaka and his dad owned a game developer company, it actually makes sense that they support him.

Sure, Hajime lived like an average joe, minus the physical fitness and healthy routine, but it was, quoting his parent, 'to build character by working for your own dream with your own hands'.

Aside from his monthly allowance, which was generous enough by any parent's standards, Hajime had opted to learn the basics by working part-time in his dad's company or as his mom's assistant. Doing that, he got the gist of how harsh the industry was beforehand and had steeled himself for all the bashing and hardships to come once high school was over.

It was also a partial reason as to why he could endure Hiyama and the other idiots' bullying.

They didn't really bother him. Not at all… Okay, maybe they did, but only a little. Now though, he couldn't care less about Hiyama Daisuke and his posse of Bastards. Why?

Hajime smiled as he pulled out a small piece of paper from his coat. A magic circle engraved on one side with a different, smaller one on the other.

It was one of Eichirou's ideas. Initially, Hajime had found out that for him to use magic, he needed to have the circle. If one had aptitude, the circle could become smaller due to omitting a few lines. In Hajime's case, one without the aptitude or the mana requirement, Eichirou had a solution.

"'Shrink the font size', huh?" the smile grew to a smirk. Like he was laughing at an inside joke.

The solution was a stupid one, for sure. Had Break Senec been present when Yamamoto offered the solution for those with weak magics that relied on too large of a circle for combat, the old man would've cried on outrage.

Honestly, the only reason why Hajime had ruled out him using magic for combat to supplement his Transmutation skill was that the circles his body required would've been drawn on paper the size of posters. Too bulky to be any good. Shrinking the circles to the size of a card enabled him to utilize spells as efficiently as any other mage without the con of carrying super large drawings.

Granted, they had tested it for only harmless spells like Candlelight and Eichirou's new Adhesive spell. Hajime prayed that Kousuke would forgive for activating that paper on his seat. In the first place, Eichirou threw that there as soon as Hajime had completed the chant. What an ass, but it was still hilarious. Anyway, there were several other things they hadn't tested just yet but that could wait until tomorrow, or the day after. They didn't have much to do anyway.

"Status, open," taking out his Plate from the coat's chest pocket, Hajime checked the contents he hadn't seen for the past few days.

Name – Nagumo Hajime | Age - 17 Years Old

Gender - Male | Level - 2

Class - Synergist

Strength - 12 | Vitality - 12

Resistance - 12 | Agility - 12

Magic - 15 | Magic Resistance - 15

Skills:

· Language Comprehension

· Transmute

Such was the results of the past days of training. There was improvement, just not much,. Compared to the others, this kind of growth was a disappointment. But there was still hope.

Looking over to the magic as well as the magic resistance, they both jumped by five. It must've been due to the practicing he had with Eichirou. Spending time in the library drawing on paper wasn't a waste after all. If he could gain stats like these after a few days, then maybe getting to a hundred wouldn't be too far off in the future.

Eichirou had indicated once, during their study, that magic increased via practice. This proved that. Then what about the second suggestion he made?

'If magic helps the body grow, wouldn't increasing one's magic be just as helpful as training the body?'

It was a theory, at best. But that meant they could still test it out. This was just Hajime getting to level two. If he could greatly improve his stats other than magic by level three, then it would prove Eichirou's point.

'With this, my class doesn't seem as hopeless as before.'

Tucking away the plate, Hajime returned to admiring the paper with two magic circles in his hand. Eichirou's most recent creation. The larger circle was the simplest one. It was a light spell. The smaller one on the other side was a more complex wind spell. The difference of size was due to Eichirou's theory at work.

After studying what they could in the span of a few days, they made leaps and bounds in the field. It was made easier by the skills they had.

Using the Language Comprehension skill, one could understand the formula written in the drawing. Initially, Hajime was surprised to use the skill that way, but after Eichirou explained that the circle was just an old language drawn out in patterns, runes, and shapes read in a counterclockwise fashion, it made sense to him.

In the first place, designing a circle enabled one to create any number of spells for solutions to specific problems. Mathematical and scientific equations worked just as well, but they were read from left to write like the English language. If you thought about the contents as a statement, there would be a resulting truth when the spell was viable.

Take Fireball for example. Hajime would have to utilize other components such as trajectory, size, speed and more besides the mana cost, power, and attribute. Given that he met the requirements even considering his lack of aptitude, it would chuck a fireball at his target. However, there was a catch.

The circle's contents had to be rational for the spell to function normally and work as intended.

If the components such as shape were changed to make the spell into a sheet of flames and the mana cost was reduced, the distance and trajectory, no matter how specific, would cause it to fail if it didn't correspond to a reasonable extent. Modifying the example fireball like so would cause it to float like a bedsheet in the wind and burn on the ground before ever reaching its target due to the lack of magic resource and the wind resistance that would prevent its flight.

There were other rules and applications for the circles. Many more.

Hajime thought back to Eichirou's example Candlelight spell. He had set the power as high as possible, lowered the mana cost, then introduced a sound function via the wind attribute. In the beginning, the Candlelight spell was just a light attribute spell, but when he added the wind, the sudden complexity of the circle increased, making it difficult to use if one didn't have the right aptitude for at least one of the elements. The new spell demanded he applied several other components based on the wind element besides the light one. Even the mana cost, despite being lowered, had tripled in amount.

Eichirou had a solution to that.

Simultaneous casting or simulcasting for short. It was the act of using multiple spells at the same time. Rather than mix two things at once, why not just keep them split and activate them separate from each other?

'Same time, different sides,' Eichirou had said, hence the two-sided, magic-circle-imbued paper.

With this technique and the removal of the size hindrance, even someone as weak as Hajime could become flexible in the heat of battle. Of course, they hadn't applied it to an actual fight yet, but Hajime hoped they would soon.

"Good evening to you, Apostle-dono." One of the guests approached Hajime, the respectful tone calling his attention more than the speaker's appearance did. A man about as tall as Sakagami Ryutarou, with a build just slightly smaller and more finely dressed, held his arm out to shake Hajime's. "I'm the Minister of Defense, Rhett Decorose."

"Er, Hajime," the boy floundered for a second before taking and shaking the man's offered hand. "Nagumo Hajime."

"Nice to meet you, Nagumo-dono—"

"Uhm, please, just Hajime will do."

The man raised an eyebrow at the interruption but didn't take offense to it. Instead, he smiled and nodded.

"Very well, Hajime-dono."

'Just 'Hajime' is fine, y'know. And what's with the 'dono'?' The boy wanted to criticize the choice of words but refrained out of respect for the elder. "So, Decorose-sama, what brings you outside?"

"I was actually going to ask the same of you, Hajime-dono."

"Ahahah," Hajime let out a nervous laugh as he was prone to do. "I'm not used to parties like this."

"So I've gathered," the old man sighed. When Hajime made a face that said he didn't understand, the older man explained. "I've been talking around with your fellow Apostles. It seems such extravagant parties are not the norm for your world."

"Yeah, well. In a sense, we're all commoners on Earth."

It was the truth, plain and simple. Despite how well-respected they were and how the people of Tortus praised their existence as Apostles, they were nothing more than ordinary kids from their world. Even Kouki who seemed too perfect in everyone's eyes was just as much a commoner as any of the others were.

"I've heard from your educational instructor about that as well. She says you all follow a meritocratic system in your world, despite their still being monarchies. It's a fairly interesting concept, but I only ever heard of meritocratic systems from the Hoelscher Empire."

'Educational instructor? Hatayama-sensei must've informed him about Japan's constitutional monarchy.'

The ironic thing about that system though was that the Emperor of Japan mainly held ceremonial responsibilities and not actual power… Wait a minute. Was that really any different from Heiligh's King being controlled by the Pope?

Huh. Not really different, in a bad sort of way for the Heiligh Kingdom. Damn.

Eichirou was right about worrying. Unlike Japan, which was run by the Prime Minister, this place was still a monarchy. If the king wasn't in control of the kingdom, then what was the point?

"Hajime-dono?"

"Ah!" Hajime snapped back to reality. "I'm sorry for spacing out, Decorose-sama. What was the question?"

"I was asking about your class and what you have to contribute in the war against the demons."

.

.

.

"Come again?"

"It's a part of my job as the Minister of Defense, you see," Decorose explained. "Equipping the Apostles with the nation's best equipment is my responsibility. Now that we are at war, I can't be irresponsible and just hand you and your fellows gear without considering how best you would apply them."

Well. That was reasonable. If they were to win against the demons, then they needed not just any equipment, but the best ones suited for their classes. But then there was the big question.

'What would the Synergist need?'

He didn't want to feel worthless about it. As a production-based class, the best he was opted for was support duty. Blacksmithing, crafting, maybe fortification building since Eichirou did suggest that mineral control could give an advantage when creating small forts, barricades, or base defenses.

But not only was it embarrassing to be the only one downgraded from the Hero's companions, it also made him feel bad as the only one not on the frontlines assisting the others. The exception was, again, Yamamoto Eichirou, but the guy never wanted to join the war in the first place. Which left Hajime in the 'wants to help, but useless in war' category.

But then again, what exactly could he do?

"Hajime-dono?"

"… Synergist…"

"I'm sorry," the old man leaned closer. "Could you repeat that?"

"I'm a Synergist. Currently level two. I only have my Transmute skill which I plan to use for combat."

"…"

"…"

Minister Rhett Decorose remained silent. Hajime was as well. During their silence, the older man looked the boy up and down before settling with a sigh.

"I see." He took a sip from his drink. Judging by the sweet fragrance, it was pleap fruit juice, but Hajime could care less. What worried him was the man's verdict. "Well, I can make arrangements for you to meet with Master Volpen. He is the head Synergist of the Kingdom and a master craftsman."

"Volpen? Craftsman?" Hajime repeated the words, expecting the outcome but, at the same time, not wanting to hear it.

"Indeed. We will see if you can learn from him," the minister nodded but his face was akin to disappointed. Or maybe it was pity. "And in time, when you've mastered your class, we will have you make weapons for the army—"

"With all due respect, Decorose-sama," Hajime spoke calmly, but his voice sounded worn-out, desperate. "I wish to fight alongside my friends."

"'Alongside'? You mean you wish to fight as a warrior on the frontlines? With a non-combat class?"

"Yes."

The man stared at him. The boy stared back. He was defiant in his glare. Or at least, he wished to convey that defiance as much as possible.

Hajime didn't want to be relegated to the back. He wanted to fight. To contribute. To prove he wasn't weak. Just like how he didn't want Shirasaki to baby him, to spoil him with her concern, he wanted to prove himself as a person, as their Apostle.

Hajime didn't care whether Hiyama and the others laughed at him. He just wanted to prove to himself that he too could fight next to those the people of Tortus called Heroes.

He expected the minister to refuse.

"HAHAHAHAHAHHA!"

He didn't expect him to laugh.

"That's an amusing joke, Hajime-dono," the man calmed himself, but the pitying gaze remained. "However, this is a war we're talking about. I can't have you being selfish and putting yourself at risk."

"But," Hajime just grit his teeth and spoke back. "But I don't want to leave my friends to fight on their own—!"

"Hajime-dono," the minister's indifferent voice was enough to silence the boy to submission. "No matter what you may wish for, we each have to carry our own weight. This is a war. People are about to risk their lives. What exactly would you be able to give them? What exactly could you provide?"

The man named Rhett Decorose was of considerable age, but his eyes and expression were those of a man doing his utmost for his duty. Stern and demanding in that regard.

"Other than a burden on those friends you wish to help?"

It was the same eyes his parents gave him when they worked. Ones that expected results, no matter how harsh the method would be to achieve a looming deadline. They were cold, calculating. More intimidating than any of his classmates could ever give Hajime.

The truth was clear. It was oppressive, unfairly so.

Hajime knew that his stats couldn't keep up with the rest. Despite the growth he had just recently achieved, at the rate it was going, he might as well be deadweight. Even with Eichirou's theory, as it was, it was just a theory. He couldn't prove anything without further testing. And yet, if he could prove he could catch up, Hajime was sure it still wasn't enough to convince the Minister of Defense otherwise.

"Now, now, Minister Decorose. You shouldn't dismiss an Apostle without giving him the chance to prove himself."

The familiar voice came from the entrance to the balcony. Turning to face him the same time as the old man, both came face to face with his friend.

"And who might you be?" The minister addressed Eichirou who appeared out of nowhere. "Weren't you the Princess' escort? What's your name, boy?"

"Yamamoto Eichirou, at your service." A formal bow, perfect ninety degrees with a hand over his heart and the other behind his back. "That is correct, I am her escort for this evening."

"Ho? If that is the case, Yamamoto-dono, where is she and why are you not by her side?"

"I was actually gathering the Apostles, Lord Decorose. My Lady is meeting with a few of them now. She wishes to understand the saviors of Tortus and get to know them better." Lifting his head, Eichirou's eyes locked on the minister's. "You could say she puts more effort in it than you."

"What did you say?" The man's tone turned hostile as soon as Eichirou stated his opinion. "You dare mock my judgement, child?"

"Not to mean any offense, Minister," Eichirou approached the old minister with his head held high and stopped between him and Hajime. "But to designate one as a 'burden' before assessing their abilities is a careless way to judge. More so for someone in a high position of power."

Despite being polite, Eichirou's tone was very much defiant and criticizing the older man. So much so that it worried Hajime.

"Oy, Eichirou-kun. What are you doing?"

"Stating the obvious, Nagumo-sama."

Hajime didn't know why he was being called by his surname when they were already past that point, but he failed to notice as he saw his friend confront the more powerful man before them both.

"You and I both know. Besides the rest of the Apostles, you are more capable than anyone else present in this party. To be deemed as a burden by those people," Eichirou smirked, annoying the minister even further but reassured Hajime in turn. "How arrogant can they be when they are the ones begging to be saved? You shouldn't listen to the whining of such weaklings. None of them have a right to deny your efforts. More so because you have been doing more to protect them than they have done for themselves."

The words struck a chord in Hajime. He had been working hard ever since they got here. Sure, the current achievement wasn't much to look at. But compared to just wasting away, he had done something for the sake of this cause.

To say it was more than what the people of Tortus have done for themselves might be too extreme. But the idea that they relied on him and his classmates' help suggested they gave up saving themselves, it was not wrong. In fact, the mere summoning of kids for help was the definition of desperation.

"You!" However, the minister didn't take this lying down. Teeth bared and eyes fuming with anger, the man was just about to blow in rage. If Hajime knew the man's exact age, he would have assumed Decorose was about to get a stroke. "Where do you get the gall to insinuate our people have given up?"

"You tell me, Minister." Eichirou, on the other hand, was calm as a breeze. "Your people were the ones who stopped raising their weapons, prepared to die for your country and beliefs, and turned to god to end your war. Are you saying that this is your solution to every problem your kingdom faces? To arm children and ask them to accomplish something adults could not?"

"Children they may be," the man seethed but remained composed. "But they are more than that. They are the Apostles of Ehito-sama. Surely their strength is necessary to end the suffering of the innocents."

"If you wanted to end the suffering of the innocents, you would let them die a painless death," the boy argued back, grimly but gracefully. "Nobles enjoying parties while your soldiers and peasants ration themselves, such is the wastefulness of the aristocracy you call a Kingdom. Had you desired to win a war, you would have exerted all your efforts into arming the civilians and training what men you can."

The valid points ruffled the minister's feathers. He glared down the boy even more. But Eichirou stood tall under the burning gaze.

"You speak as if you've known war. Tell me, child, how far does your arrogance go? Will you claim to have survived fighting demons and monsters as they pour down their magic and overwhelming strength to tear a man asunder?"

"Of course not. I am not a fool that claims he knows the horrors that demons and monsters bring to the people."

The man held a victorious smile, but even that vanished soon.

"But have you seen an entire city vanish from existence, minister? Have you fought against an enemy that could ruin you, the people you claim to be worth saving, this castle, and this city with a single strike?"

"Such a thing," the man tried to scoff. "How can that compare with a monster horde overrunning a city?"

"Well, when a horde devastates a location, they would slaughter all living things there, correct? You'd at least find something to bury."

The man fell silent. Hajime noted the shaking in the minister's hands but also the composed Eichirou's change in tone.

"Tell me minister. Have you known true despair? Knowing you can be erased from existence at the wave of someone's hand? That your very life, and everything around you, weighed on the whim of strangers? To not even be left remains for your loved ones to remember you by. To not even have anything left to remember them by either. All of you, all you've ever lived for, your homes, your treasures, your legacy, turned to dust in a flash. Forgotten by the sands of time."

The silence was intense. Hajime noted he could hear his own heartbeat through his ears.

"Or would you rather die slowly, watching as all you've ever worked for crumbled into ashes. All your cities empty and rot. All your fields and cattle decay and melt into nothingness. All the while, you come to understand, that even if anyone else survives, there would be no do overs. No returning from the brink. You will be forced out of your homes to seek out new ones in a world so cruel, you ask yourself if God is dead."

Hajime couldn't see Eichirou's eyes, but he could feel the chill in the words. Despite them just being words, Hajime felt something heavy take hold of his heart, a grave disparity that threatened to force him down into hopelessness. It was… strange. Eerily so. He felt like he was sweating. Like it was affecting him physically as well as mentally. The minister must've felt it as well. His aged face had long gone white. The way he suddenly took a step back as Eichirou stepped forward was enough to prove it.

Minister Rhett Decorose was afraid. Not of Hajime or of Eichirou, but rather of the message his friend was conveying.

Hajime, of course, knew what he was talking about. Nukes from their world was nothing new. It had been an age-old weapon, so outdated that it had been parodied in video games and movies. Of course, the media downplayed its actual effects. It wouldn't do to cause a panic or unrest, after all.

But Hajime, through his own research and history buff tendencies, knew there were WMDs capable of wiping more than just cities off the face of the planet. Things like kinetic bombardment and carpet bombing were amazingly simple ones. The target area was decimated by precision strikes. Mustard gas and radiation bombs were the more devastating examples. Not only did they cause death and decay to the populace, they contaminated the area, leaving nothing behind for life to thrive.

Hajime knew about them and how bad they were. Public media played it safe by using complicated words to lessen the impact, but Hajime was not stupid. Those things were deadly. Some inhumanely so and they were nothing to joke about. But he had never felt this hopeless about it.

Looking towards Eichirou's back, he thought the boy knew the same and probably felt juts as unaffected about them as Hajime was. Their world had never gone so far as to start World War 3. Not yet. And Hajime had never heard of such devastating things used in the places Eichirou had been to before. The boy didn't even look like he went through anything as traumatizing. Then there was no reason for his words to have such weight in them, like he lived through all of it.

So that begs the question:

'Where's this heaviness coming from?'

"Eichirou-kun." Instead of letting the minister get a heart attack for being unable to breathe, Hajime called to his friend, grabbing his shoulder to pull him back from further threatening the old man. It was difficult too. The boy's posture was firm and prepared. 'Almost like he was this morning…!'

"Oy! Eichirou." Not wasting a second, Hajime pulled the boy back with both arms and made him look Hajime in the eye. "That's enough, man."

Eichirou nearly stumbled back if not for the grip Hajime had on his friend's shoulders. Hajime almost missed the glow in his violet eyes, but the minister probably didn't even notice. He was too busy catching his breath with an arm on the balcony supporting his body. The heavy feeling in the atmosphere now gone, back to the calm evening air.

"You alright?"

"Y-yeah. I… I'm okay."

Even Hajime noticed how unsure the boy was but didn't question it. There was nothing to gain if even the one affected did not know what he just did.

Whatever it was, it could have been a skill or something magical. In this other world were anything and everything were practically unknowns to Earthlings, Hajime couldn't and wouldn't even try to draw conclusions until he had a clearer understanding of the boy's dilemma. Eichirou just recovered and looked back at the heavily breathing minister before approaching him.

"Are you alright, minister?" Offering a helping hand, his friend took a few steps towards the man. But as soon as he laid eyes on the boy, Minister Decorose stiffened, tried to retreat, and dangerously lean back on the balcony. "Oy, minister! Calm down—!"

"Bleurgh!" the man heaved and coughed over the balcony's edge. Some contents of his belly escaping into the courtyard below.

"What the? Decorose-sama—? Eichirou?" Hajime had tried to approach the old man but Eichirou's arm stopped him before he could take another step forward. A glance to the normally composed boy's expression showed the he didn't know what to do either but shook his head to indicate approaching was a bad idea.

"Those visions!" Rhett started. "Those people! How—how?!"

"How—what?! You're not making any sense, Minister. Please calm down."

"Answer me!" The man had raised his voice. Enough so that a few eyes were drawn to their location. None approached, but they looked to the minister strangely as the calm man had lost all composure. "How were all those people—how could so many just… just disappear?!"

The two teens looked to each other and shrugged. Neither Hajime nor Eichirou knew or understood what the man was rambling about. Nor did they get to find out.

"Oy! Liliana-sama?! Are you alright? Liliana-sama?! Please, hang in there!"

The sudden shout in the hall drew the attention of both teens on the balcony. Soon enough, they were rushing in alongside the other guests that began to crowd around the Apostles' corner, leaving Minister Decorose behind to stagger to his feet. Hajime spared the man a glance but couldn't stay as Eichirou rushed into the hall ahead of him

"Please, excuse me. Pardon me, sir. Apologies, madam. Ayako? What happened?!"

Hajime arrived to see Liliana in Tsuji-san's arms.

"Yamamoto-kun?" Shirasaki-san, leaning over her to check her vitals, had a worried look on her face. "I-I don't know what's wrong!"

"Kaori, calm down!" Yaegashi was composed as ever but had her brows furrowed. "Yamamoto wouldn't be able to understand you if you don't."

"Right!" Taking a deep breath, the girl quickly regained herself, albeit still shaking in her dress. "She's been breathing rapidly for a while now. Her heart rate is too fast to be normal. Also, she was complaining about feeling dizzy before she collapsed!"

"I got it." Eichirou scanned the princess up and down, whispering something to himself before nodding and carrying her in his arms. "Thanks for watching over her. Go calm yourself down for a second. Helina-san!"

"Yes, Yamamoto-sama?"

The maid had appeared out of nowhere. Hajime recognized her as Liliana's personal maid from the time the Princess had escorted Eichirou to the library.

"Prepare a clean bed for the princess and call a doctor or physician. We don't know what's wrong exactly, but we need to give my Lady some space—"

"What's going on?" Right on cue, Amanogawa had made his way from the center of the hall to stand before Eichirou's path. "Yamamoto? Where are you taking the Princess?"

"Somewhere she can rest." The plain answer didn't seem enough as Kouki suddenly blocked his way. "Hero-sama. Out of my way, please."

"I can't just let you go without a proper explan—! Shizuku?!"

Stepping up to push the errant Hero aside, Yaegashi made to shove Amanogawa out of the way, much to Kouki's shock.

"Now is not the time. Yamamoto, go."

Nodding his thanks, Eichirou rushed past the pair, but not before Kouki grabbed on to his coat sleeve.

"Wait, I'm not done!"

"I don't have time for this farce of yours, Amano—"

"Chloe-chan? CHLOE!"

Interrupting the two, another cry came from the far side of the hall. A woman leaned over another girl that resembled herself. The unconscious girl didn't respond and Hajime could see she was having difficulty breathing.

"Marcus? Son?!"

"Dear, what's wrong?!"

THUD

A scream resounded from the other side of the ballroom. More had collapsed and even more were visibly struggling. Not just in breathing. A few had begun to vomit and complain of headaches or dizziness before outright collapsing.

The hall was beginning to fall into panic. Not even the King or Pope could stop the madness from spreading. Kouki had been enveloped in shock and with a loosened grip to his sleeve, Eichirou shook him off easily.

"Hajime-kun. Hajime-kun!"

"Eh?" Surprised at the sudden shout of his name, Hajime faced Eichirou who had a serious but calm look to his face. Ever so slightly, Hajime noted the small violet glow behind the boy's glasses. Whatever it was, it was happening again. But neither the heavy feeling nor the dangerous air was present. Instead, Eichirou's face seemed to calm and reassure Hajime. "What?"

"We need to calm everyone down. Use the slip we've tested before. First variant, weak blast."

"Er, right! Everyone, close your eyes and cover your ears!" Pulling out the paper he had been playing around with before, Hajime shouted a warning to the classmates before he started the dual chant. "Flash as lightning into the sky. Crack with thunder as you fly. Silence their voice, catch their eye. Blast away as the spell dies. Light and Blow, as I command thee, Flashbang!"

Tossing the circle-imprinted paper into the air, the wind element's pre-activation kicked in and launched itself skyward. After three seconds midflight, the small paper burned into a crisp, but nor before it set off.

FLASH

BOOM

The guest's ears rung. Their eyes caught the flashing light. For a second, there was a calm.

"Amanogawa," Eichirou, unfazed unlike their fellow classmates, spoke up just before the pretty boy Hero could shout for an explanation. "Do your duty as a Hero. Calm these people down before we have a riot on our hands. I know you want an explanation, but if you don't help me right now, then people will start dying. Understand?"

"Guh… Fine. Everyone! Lend me your strength."

Kouki, the usual confidence gone, hesitated before nodding and calling the classmates' attention. The others, or most of them that weren't shocked by the Flashbang spell, started to help as well.

"Yaegashi, you and Hatayama-sensei help gather all those that fell unconscious or are feeling sick."

"Wawawawa—where to?" Ai-chan-sensei, flustered but listening, popped her head from behind Sonobe-san, one of her fan club members.

"To a larger, separate hall. We need to isolate any who need help. Helina-san, have someone guide them there. Get as many of the servants to assist them if possible. If anyone is free, have them check if there are others feeling ill. Even if it's just something small, make sure they join everyone in being checked. Also, if you find anyone well-versed in healing magic, send them to help the physicians."

"Understood, Yamamoto-sama."

Eichirou, still carrying the princess in his arms, quickly fired off instructions as if he was used to these kinds of emergencies. Hajime noticed Eichirou whispering to their teacher. For a while, everyone did their own tasks with Yaegashi and Ai-chan taking the lead.

Then, he left. Hajime knew he was taking responsibility for the princess and didn't bother with disturbing him. He just prayed to whatever god was out there to watch over his friend.

Hajime instinctively felt, from the expression his friend made alone, that he needed it.

This was bad. This was really, really bad. In more ways than I could ever dream they would be.

Liliana had been poisoned.

Laying quiet and peaceful on the bed, the Princess of Heiligh rested. I stood by near the door. I had just finished sending the physician off after he gave his unsure conclusions. Deciding that he may be able to find the reason by checking with the other patients, I wished the man good luck. It wasn't just Liliana, after all. There were about two dozen or so victims.

But I wasn't as worried as the old doctor. I already knew why Liliana was sick. The cause that the doctor failed to figure out?

I lifted the flute glass up to eye-level. Its sweet-smelling contents swirled within as I shook it slightly.

"Appraisal, flute glass, liquid contents."

Again, the information flowed into me, confirming the conclusion I came to when I first used the Appraisal skill on Liliana's unconscious form.

Pleap fruit juice. Extract made from the squeezed flesh juices of the pleap fruit native to the eastern border of the Heiligh Kingdom.

Contains a poison similar to cyanide from Earth.

How the skill recognized it was cyanide, it was probably the new branch in my Encyclopedia skill.

"Status, open."

Name - Yamamoto Eichirou | Age - 18 Years Old

Gender - Male | Level - 2

Class -

Strength - 15 | Vitality - 25

Resistance - 295 | Agility - 20

Magic - 300 | Magic Resistance - 275

Skills:

· Language Comprehension

· Living Encyclopedia of Another World

- Medical Arts

o Diagnostic

o First Aid

o First Responder

o Poison Master

- Combat Arts

o Dagger

o Quarterstaff

o Spear

o Sword

o Throwing Knives

· Appraisal

I didn't level up. But my stats and skills changed. They grew and increased in number. For the skills, the new branch was a shock. I had been trained in first aid and being a first responder, but not enough to be able to keep calm and know what to do during an actual incident. It also explained how I knew about the poison and its symptoms. Then there were the stats. Resistance had jumped drastically. This explained why only I was safe but the Princess wasn't.

I took a sip from the glass until it was half full. Then, I checked the Status Plate once more.

"Yep, this was definitely why I'm fine."

Strength - 15 | Vitality - 25

Resistance - 310 | Agility - 20

Magic - 300 | Magic Resistance - 275

The poison didn't even affect me much. In fact, it just made my Resistance surpass my Magic.

"As expected, I still can't comprehend how stats apply to reality."

After I used Appraisal on Liliana, I did the same to myself and found all of my organs to be fine. The poison was nowhere to be found too. Also, despite this poison being slightly more potent than small doses of Earth's garden variety suicide pill, the symptoms and damages to the people here weren't as apparent or effective.

I don't even understand how I knew the lethality levels of suicide pills, but by my guess, it was probably due to the skills. Though, having 'Poison Master' makes it sound like I know because I tinker with it. That really didn't make any sense. Besides that, I realize it must've been the stats that has kept these victims alive and safe for so long.

Pushing away from the wall I leaned on, I cupped the Princess' cheek as she lay on the clean bed. Closing my eyes, I whispered.

"Appraisal, Liliana Heiligh, pleap fruit poison."

"Urgh." I grit my teeth as I felt the rush of information nearly overwhelm my head. The location of the poison was suddenly mapped in my head. On that note, it had also mapped Liliana's anatomy that was affected. It felt… like I was trying to remember a biology presentation of the human body, except, there were blanks. Like the arms, lower half of her torso, and her head. The only areas I could remember, or in this case, know about was the upper torso's digestive tract, from her mouth to the stomach area and the smaller intestine along with several thousand capillaries that took nutrients from the digestive tract to spread to the rest of her body.

The intriguing part was that instead of immediately spreading throughout her via the bloodstream, the poison was actually being held back slightly. It was spreading through her body, no doubt, but it was a slower process than what should normally happen. Compared to my initial Appraisal of her, the poison had already jumped from her throat to the intestine, but after a few minutes, it still hadn't enveloped her entire system.

In a sense, something was resisting the poison from spreading.

"The Resistance stats—? No. Not now. Focus!" I stood back up and started pacing around.

I knew how to get rid of the cyanide in her body. I knew how to cure her before any lasting damage occurs. The only problem was the how. Not the 'how I cure her'. That shit was easy thanks to the skills giving me the necessary knowledge to do so.

The problem was 'how do I explain I can'.

Not only would this prove that I could be more useful to them as an Apostle, but it would also forcibly reveal my skills. I can't have that. It's the same as having all my cards out in the open. With my stance against the Church, there was no way they wouldn't use this to their advantage.

Do I really want to risk revealing myself?

No, I don't.

But do I really want to let her die?

No, I can't do that either.

Dammit.

Dammit!

DAMMIT!

The Church versus me aside, there was still the other matter I'd been hesitating over. If I save her, I'll still betray her trust in the end. But if I let her die, would that make it any different?

Shit.

Fuck.

"Eichirou…sama?"

I stopped my pacing to rush to the side of her bed. I clasped Liliana's hands as they tried blindly reaching out.

"I'm here, my Lady. How are you feeling?"

Her eyes looked into mine, sleepily but awake.

"I feel a bit lightheaded… and maybe a bit queasy… Is it because I drank too much…? I wonder?"

"Yes, my Lady." I responded, unable to say otherwise. Instead of lying to that face, I decided on a half-truth. "That's just it. You had too much to drink this evening."

She began to cough. Her fit only lasted for a few seconds, but there was some vomit coming out as well. Being so drowsy, Liliana probably didn't even notice as I took my handkerchief to wipe her mouth.

"Heheh," she giggled.

"Is something wrong, my Lady?" I asked, trying to keep a calm face.

"It's… no… nevermind." She tried to turn away blushing, but I cupped her cheek and had her face me. I needed to make sure the symptoms hadn't progressed further.

"What is it, Liliana-sama?" I insisted.

"It's just… This feels like a dream… Eichirou-sama… caring for me… as I sleep… it's like… one of your stories…"

I could only smile back at the peaceful, yet embarrassed look she gave me.

"Then, you better enjoy this dream while it lasts, Liliana-sama."

I kissed the child's forehead as I did when tucking my siblings to sleep. Once she had started to doze off, I slowly got off the bed. It was difficult, trying to release her grip of my hand without waking her up, but I soon managed and arrived at the door.

It was there that I stopped in my tracks.

I should help her.

No, you don't.

I should save her.

No. You don't!

She has done nothing but support me. I should pay her back, even if I put myself at risk—

NO. YOU. DON'T.

My forehead hit the door hard, but not loud enough to wake the girl. Glancing over to her, Liliana peacefully slept like a babe. Her life slowly being choked to death by the effects of the cyanide-like poison. In a few short hours, it would all be over. She wouldn't wake up, and neither would the rest of the other patients in the nearby hall-turned-emergency-infirmary.

I do want to save her.

Yes, you do.

But I can't risk leaking information.

No, you don't.

Then…

What should I do?

Tears began to well up in my eyes.

Breathe. Hold. Calm?

.

.

.

No.

Again!

Breathe deep. Hold it. Calm?

.

.

.

No…

I couldn't do it.

I couldn't bring myself to let this girl die. But I also didn't want to give myself a vulnerability by letting them know anything.

Curse my bleeding heart! Had I been stronger than this, I wouldn't see my siblings in that girl. Now it just made it painful to choose.

She wasn't my brother, no matter how curious and cheery she was.

No, she isn't.

She wasn't my sister, no matter how responsible tried to be for me.

No, she isn't.

She was just Liliana. A girl too enamored with romance and fantasy stories. A girl too young to be given the responsibility of a princess. She enjoyed music as much as she did working hard in what she wanted to do.

.

.

.

But you would still choose to save her.

Of course.

Then,

"Use my gift."

"Huh?"

I looked behind me. Liliana was still asleep and even if she was awake, she didn't have the voice to let out such deep and soothing words. Wait… Soothing?

"What's this—?"

I put a hand to my head. My world was spinning. But I wasn't dizzy. It was the same strange feeling I had this morning. Of seeing it happen but not being in control. I knew what to do but didn't understand how I knew.

In less than a second, I was calm. Calmer than I had ever been before. All my problems were nonexistent and all I felt was the urge to accomplish what needed to be done.

'But what exactly needed to be done?'

.

.

.

I came up with a blank. I didn't know what to do. I hadn't even made my choice yet!

But my body didn't stop and wait for me.

Opening the door, I saw the two maids making their way here. Without hesitating, I spoke up before they did.

"Helina, call the Royal family. Tell them I have a solution to saving Liliana-sama."

The maid stopped in her tracks, took one look at me, nodded, and turned back the way she came. Turning over to Iselda, I gave her the rest of my instructions. Even she didn't argue back, but instead followed my instructions without pause. As if all was normal.

"Now then, let's get ready for the show."

'Wait! What show?!' I wanted to ask myself as I was unsure who the hell was in control right now!

"Wait and see. I'll make sure to impress you."

.

.

.

To my horror, I was responding to myself.

WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON?!

"If you'd be patient, you'll get to enjoy it better, y'know?"

My body turned to face a mirror and my mental jaw hit the floor the moment I saw my own eyes. They were glowing. Like dim violet stars. It was creepy. Eerily creepy. Disgustingly creepy.

WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS BULLSHIT?!

"Don't be so loud," I said. "The stage has been set. And right now, I am the star of the show."

I had never smiled before like the reflection did. But the face I thought to be my own had managed a grin that reached both ears. Like a horrible theatre mask.

"Oh, but it is." I replied to my own thoughts. "Just sit back and let me take the lead. I promise, you will not be disappointed."

A triage had been set up in the nearby hall, with tens of doctors and several dozen servants running back and forth assisting with setting up beds or arranging a change of clothes for each victim. Worried families and bystanders were ushered aside to wait in another hall.

The Royal family, minus the princess, were all ushered to the safety of their own quarters and Pope Ishtar was now busy calming the remaining masses. Many were demanding for explanations. The old man just shut them out by claiming they pray for Ehito's deliverance instead of just wailing about.

Personally, Hajime just felt bad that he didn't understand what was going on. Eichirou was gone. He and the rest of the classmates were left to simmer in this separate room. A guard had been posted outside, ordered to keep anyone out in case of an attack.

"This is horrible." Kouki spoke up, frustration contorting his handsome features. "How am I a Hero if I can't even help them. Dammit!"

"Kouki, where are you going?" Noticing that the wayward Hero was approaching the door, Shizuku stood in his way with crossed arms. "You can't just go out there. You don't even know what's wrong with them."

"But…" the Hero grit his teeth. "But… I need to help them, somehow—"

"By getting in their way? Are you a doctor? Do you have medical knowledge?" Shizuku argued back, effectively shutting him down. "You won't be able to do anything except get in the way."

"Then, I'll go talk with Yamamoto!" Kouki remained defiant. "He probably knows what's going on!"

"Even if he does, he's busy checking on Princess Liliana. If you interrupt him and he misses something, will you take responsibility for what happens to the Princess?"

"Guh!" He couldn't argue back. Not when it contradicted his very morals of being right. Hajime knew his flaw was bad but not to this extent. Had the guy even considered he would be in the way? Maybe, but he just didn't see it as wrong if he meant to help. "But—!"

"That's enough, Amanogawa-kun!" Ai-chan-sensei had gotten up and stood next to Shizuku, blocking Kouki from leaving the room.

"Sensei?"

"Don't 'sensei' me. Sit down."

"But—"

"SIT!"

For the first time since entering Tortus, Ai-chan was mad. She had been confused, scared, and bewildered before, but this was the first time she had actually scolded the boy out of anger. For once, the short teacher was in charge.

Once seated, Kouki could only grit his teeth and ball his fists.

"Now that we're all seated. Sensei would like to have you all calm down and think before we act." The short woman commanded respect, despite her being so adorably cute doing so. "Does anyone here feel unwell? Vomiting, dizziness, trouble breathing, or even headaches? Anyone?"

When no one responded, she let out a sigh.

"Thank goodness. We can rule out food poisoning affecting any of you for now."

"Food poisoning?"

Murmurs and panic began to spread. It was a repeat of the ballroom all over again. Hajime slipped a hand into his pocket to grab another Flashbang spell just in case. He needn't worry as it was unnecessary.

"Everyone, shut up!" One of the girls then nodded to the teacher. "Go ahead, sensei."

"Thank you, Sonobe-san." Clearing her throat, Ai-chan resumed. "Yamamoto-kun told me to check if any of you had been affected. Based on the symptoms the aristocrats and their children were showing, Yamamoto-kun suspected food poisoning. Now. Again, does anyone feel off in any way?"

Taking it seriously this time, the classmates became abuzz, checking and double checking, going so far as to have someone check on them as well. After a while, they all came to the same consensus. No one was poisoned. They were clean.

"But how could we have been poisoned? The food tasted fine, and we never really noticed someone putting anything wrong in them."

"Well, if anyone would've noticed the food being poisoned, Nomura would definitely know first, seeing as he ate like a pig."

"Shut up, Tsuji!"

"Make me!"

"Ah, there they go again. Get a room, you two!"

"Suzu, leave the couple be."

""Who're you calling a couple—?! Shut up! No, you shut up! GRRR!""

Ignoring the pair about to either make out or strangle each other, Hajime had to agree that he didn't notice anything off about their meal. If anything, the food might've tasted too good to be spoiled or anything.

'Then, what might've been the real cause?'

KNOCK KNOCK

Everyone tensed. Kouki jumped out of his seat, only to be knocked back down by Shizuku and kept down by her glare.

"Hm? Come on in."

Kousuke, who had been standing by near the door, propped it open to check then welcomed the visitor before anyone could say otherwise.

"Pardon my rudeness, Apostles-sama. I'm currently looking for Nagumo Hajime-sama."

"Iselda-san?" Surprised at the mention of his name, Hajime called out to the maid. "What's wrong?"

"Yamamoto-sama has requested your assistance. He says he needs you to assist in curing the victims starting with Liliana-himesama."

"Huh? Why Nagumo of all people?"

"Shouldn't Yamamoto be calling a doctor or a Priest for healing magic?"

The others started making noises, complaining why it had to be him of all people. But Hajime didn't bother with them, neither did Iselda-san. He simply nodded and stepped out of the room.

"Wait! I'm coming—"

"My apologies, Hero-sama," Iselda stood in Kouki's path. The fragile-looking maid halting the taller boy in his steps. "But Yamamoto-sama requested that I only bring Nagumo-sama back."

"At least tell me why!" The boy demanded. Hajime felt like he heard something in Kouki's voice. Was it frustration? Confusion? Or envy?

"In Yamamoto-sama's words for the Hero-sama," Iselda spoke, reciting from memory an instruction surprisingly specific for Kouki. "Nagumo-sama has 'the skills that most of the other Apostles lack for the procedure' and 'the precision an Earth Mage can't hope to achieve as of their low level'."

Hajime understood what Eichirou needed from him. Kouki and the others did not. Kousuke, Shizuku, and Ai-chan remained neutral. With all that was said and done, Hajime left with Iselda-san taking the lead. The majority of his classmates left behind, confused. But as they were not needed, nor did they have anything to suggest, they all chose to sit quietly and wait in silence.

However, there were those that envied the boy.

But Hajime wouldn't know of it until much later.

"Your highness. I am relieved to see you unhurt."

Despite being an Apostle himself, the boy bowed with the same reverence and respect he always showed the older man's family. But this time, King Eliheid stood at the doorway of what soon could be his daughter's deathbed.

"Enough of that, Eichirou-sama." The king waved the respect away. He was more concerned for his child's life. "Is it true that you've found a way to save Liliana?"

"Yes, my liege."

Eliheid felt relief swell in his very being. The doctor had been gravely clear with his findings. The victims in the party, including his daughter, were all suffering from an unknown poison. One that even the Head Physician couldn't come up with a countermeasure for. To hear from Liliana's personal maid that the Apostle had an answer, Eliheid truly felt blessed to have the blessing of Ehito bestowed upon his kingdom.

But why hadn't he already done so if he could cure them?

"If it is true that you already have a cure, then why waste time summoning us here?"

"Langbard-sama. Please control your temper. It wouldn't do for the patient to wake. In the first place, I only summoned for Liliana-sama's family as they should be the ones most concerned for her well-being." Eichirou spoke with respect and politeness, but it didn't seem the pope appreciated the gesture. "You didn't have to trouble yourself for this, but I applaud your show of compassion to visit and pray for those in their hour of need."

Pope Ishtar just stood there and nodded as if it was a matter of fact that he, as the pope, would pray for Ehito-sama's children.

Eliheid failed to notice the annoyance in the old man's face at the jab of not being invited.

"What of Liliana's condition? What about my daughter?!" Luluaria, beautiful thing she was, had her make up in a mess. Gone was the composure of the Queen of Heiligh. Right now, she was a mother agonizing over her child. "Please! Please tell me Ehito-sama won't abandon her!"

"Regrettably, I cannot speak for Ehito-sama, my Lady."

"Eh?" the words silenced all. Not even Lundel who was confused and crying his eyes out said anything. "What do you mean?! Don't tell me you can't save my children?!"

"Ara? Is Lundel-sama also affected by the poison? Well this makes it easier for us then." The Apostle seemed genuinely surprised and relieved at the same time, but unconcerned of the fact that the Royal lineage was on the line. Like none of it bothered him at all. "Eliheid-sama. Luluaria-sama. Before I cure your children and your people, I have a request to make of you."

"A request, you say?!" Eliheid asked in surprise. Normally he would be enraged at being asked for a favor when his children could die. But coming from an Apostle, he couldn't possibly ignore it. "What is it that you ask—"

"Ridiculous!"

CLANK

CHINK

Ishtar-sama slammed his rod on the floor, causing the jingling chimes at the head of the stave to clink in unison.

"Ehito-sama wouldn't ask for a favor from his children. Especially when they are in most need of his blessing—"

"As I have said," the boy interrupted the pope without even glancing in the man's direction. He kept his eyes on the King and Queen, ignoring Ishtar entirely. "I do not speak for Ehito. My request comes from Anima."

'Anima? The god of Eichirou-sama's world?' Eliheid began to think of the consequences of such a request. 'Does his wish for me to change loyalties for the god of another world?! That would be heresy! That would mean betraying the Church of Saints!'

All his life had been offered for Ehito-sama's sake. To betray his faith for the life of his people, his children, did Ehito-sama wish to test his faith by offering his children in exchange—?

CLANK

CHINK

"Insolence!" Ishtar-sama practically spat out the word as he clanked down his rod once more and pointed an accusatory finger at the Apostle. "What right does a pagan deity have to demand the children of Ehito for pay—"

"Confuto."

"GRK!"

CLANGCHINKCHINK

In a swift stroke, Ishtar had his tongue sealed.

"Haaah… I see Ehito has never properly trained his dog to know when to bark. How disappointing, Langbard-sama." Lowering his raised hand, Eichirou-sama released a sigh. His violet eyes looked down pitifully on the Pope of the Church of Saints as Ishtar-sama struggled to form words. His rod had impacted the ground loud enough to cause Liliana to stir in her sleep. "You nearly woke the patient. Had she been awake, not only would the child feel the pain of the poison coursing through her veins, she'd be disappointed that her Pope couldn't control his temper."

As the holy man scratched his throat and mouth, trying so desperately to find his voice, the glowing eyes of the Apostle had returned to the King. Eliheid swore on Ehito's name, he saw strangely shaped magic circles revolving in their violet center before they vanished back into the violet night of his pupils.

"Now, where were we? Ah, right." Clearing his throat, the boy, no, the young man stood his tallest and addressed the monarchs once more. "Eliheid-sama. Luluaria-sama. About my request."

Eliheid began to sweat buckets as to what such a request would entail. But seeing Ishtar slumped on the floor, the king remained silent as his wife hugged her son close.

"Ah, please do not worry. I don't plan on having you make such a big fuss over saving your children. All my god asks is a simple favor."

The imposing aura Yamamoto Eichirou let out had receded. The young man was calm and friendly once again.

"A favor?"

"Yes. Nothing much except for the credit to be given to Anima just this once."

"…"

"…"

"That's it?"

"Yes, my liege." Eichirou said so like it was a matter of fact. "Anima-sama has been feeling very generous. He has ordered me to grant healing to your people in exchange for a single prayer. One of thanks to her from all that were healed as a token of gratitude."

"We… we need not prostrate ourselves?" Eliheid asked in honest confusion. "Or convert?"

"Convert?" the boy chuckled before smiling kindly. "Heavens, no. Anima is benevolent in that an individual must approach him voluntarily. She does not ask for forced conversions nor does he wish of you to prostrate yourselves. To all, Anima is family. To Anima, all is her children."

Such words seemed pleasing to the ears, but the smile he wore was more endearing.

It reminded Eliheid of how he would tell his daughter stories of angels that came down to do Ehito-sama's will. Of how they were beautiful and pure no matter what duty they had to fulfill. Eichirou-sama's smile was akin to that. Eliheid felt warmth, love, and kindness, in them. More than he ever felt when he prayed to the mural of Ehito.

Eliheid, as a father, made his decision.

"I will accept this request." The man took of his crown and lowered himself to kneel before the Apostle. "As King of the Heiligh Kingdom, I will do all in my power to comply with Ehi—With Anima's will."

Eliheid couldn't see Ishtar's expression from where he kneeled. But from the thumping noise on the floor, he sounded furious. His wife and son, on the other hand, joined his prostration as they paid respects to the Apostle.

"Raise your head, children of Heiligh." The king felt a hand on his shoulder, inviting him to stand. Respectfully, he took it. So did his wife and their son. "Anima has felt your sincerity. She grants you her blessing and his protection."

KNOCK KNOCK

"Ah, he's here." The boy walked to the door, passed by the still-squirming Ishtar and opened it to let another young man in. "Right on time, Hajime."

"I came as soon as… Iselda-san… called… what's happening here?!"

The boy seemed shocked. Eliheid couldn't fault him for it. It wasn't everyday you'd walk in with the Pope on his knees trying to scratch his mouth open as he tried to locate his tongue.

"Don't worry about it. Are you ready to find out if it works?"

"Eh? Uh, yeah." The young man called Hajime pulled out a few bottles from his coat pocket. "I asked Meld-san if I could have some and after Iselda-san explained the situation, he lent me four mid-level ones."

"That will suffice." Eichirou-sama nodded and turned back to the Royal family. "Eliheid-sama, Luluaria-sama, Lundel-sama, this is my friend, a fellow Apostle and Synergist, Nagumo Hajime-sama. He shall be assisting me with delivering Anima's blessing."

"Anima's?" Hajime-sama seemed taken aback by the sudden information but didn't seem to find it strange. "Are you carrying out his will?"

"Indeed, my friend, Hajime. She has given me permission to save the king and queen's children from the deadly cyanide poison found in the pleap fruit juice."

""The juice?!""

Both Eliheid and Hajime exclaimed all at once. But not missing a beat, Eichirou-sama simply pulled out a sheet of paper and began drawing.

"You—you mean to say," Eliheid stuttered. "That our gifts to Apostles-sama… was the-the cause?!"

"That is only partially true, my king." Eichirou-sama finished his work and immediately handed them to Hajime who took them and began studying. "But let's leave the explanations until after I have saved your children and your people."

The calm expression on his face let Eliheid feel at ease. It was as if nothing could cause him worry anymore.

CLANK CHINK

CLANK CHINK

Not even Ishtar's newfound attempt to call their attention. The man had begun smacking the ground with his rod, as if to annoy them or insult Eichirou-sama even further. But not even Eliheid was that stupid to anger the one healing his children, nor did he sympathize with Ishtar's plight.

CLANK CHI—

"You really wish to disrespect Anima, do you? Even after he has granted you such mercy to stay and observe her glory."

—IEEENKDANK

Grabbing the end of the staff, the Apostle bent the metal rod with such ease, he seemed to be doing so with a wooden stick. Ishtar, unequipped, could only stare up in fear as Eichirou lifted the man by his robes, set him down on a nearby chair, and covered half his face with an open palm.

"Rest here until you've learned your lesson, pupa. Dormeo"

Ishtar's eyes were filled with fear, then enraged, and finally blank as he fell unconscious. As the king stared at the knocked-out pope, Eichirou saw it fit to reassure him.

"Do not worry. He's just asleep. I wouldn't want a servant of Ehito to unintentionally interrupt this ritual to save your children."

The king nodded in acceptance but stared at the still body of his Church's leader. He may have earned the Pope's wrath for this, but he hoped Ehito-sama would forgive them both. To thank another god once for this help should mean little to the one he would devote his entire life to. To begin with, none of this would have ever been possible had Ehito not summoned this Apostle, this child of Anima, to Tortus.

Eliheid prayed in silence while the Apostles worked. Not just to Ehito-sama for forgiveness, but to Anima-sama as well in gratitude.

"Alright. I'm done here. Are you ready, Eichirou?"

The Apostle named Hajime-sama had used his Transmute skill on the floor and ceiling respectively. Eliheid didn't understand what he was doing or why but didn't question it for Eichirou-sama seemed to approve.

"Yeah. Just one last thing." Turning to the queen, he held out his hand. "My Lady, would Lundel-sama please make his way to his sister's side."

"Come on, Lundel."

The boy seemed hesitant, hiding behind his mother's skirt. Eliheid thought to approach the boy to convince him to follow the Apostle-sama's request. He didn't expect Eichirou-sama to beat him to it.

"Lundel-sama," kneeling before the prince, the young man addressed the child with the same respect he did for the king and queen. "Are you afraid?"

Shyly, the boy nodded.

"Of me?"

He shook sideways.

"Then, of Anima?"

He nodded but slowly out of fear of offending. But the Apostle merely smiled with reassurance akin to a mother caressing her child's head during a storm.

"There is nothing to fear, my Prince. Anima is kind to all children. She wishes for them to smile and be happy until the day they grow tired and weary. When that time comes, he lets them rest and sleep until the day they wish to rise from their slumber. Are you afraid of such a benevolent father and doting mother of all things that are blessed by heaven's light?"

Lundel shook his head. Eichirou-sama stretched out his hand. Not to take the boy away from his family, but a gesture as if to join him as the Apostle guides the child to his deity's embrace. Thankfully, the boy took it.

Once he had joined his sister, sitting next to her sleeping form on the bed, Eichirou-sama had backed away slowly to the edge of the circle. Nodding once to Hajime-sama, he began to chant.

"In Anima per voluntatem peto.
Fide et per fidem meam do tibi.
Cudebat per flammas calorem solis,
Quod maria omnia caelo miscuit tuum fiat voluntas."

The wind started to blow, swirling around the room with the siblings as the center. This was so despite the window being sealed shut.

"De quo familia peto a te,
Monstra te, et gratiam divinitatis.
Benedicite et ignoscat Deus pro eo quod peccaverunt.
Egredere aliquando spiritus eorum."

Suddenly, the ceiling and the floor began to glow. Circles and different shapes of varying sizes started to emerge from the stone surface even though they were clear before. The wind picked up further, able to slightly move the Queen's heavy skirt and toss around the sleeping Pope's robes. The sheets on Liliana's bed, however, wasn't affected.

"De die in diem hanc, ut se defendat.
Ne falsum deorum non lasciviendi permittebat, qui in secundis.
Cum enim vovit, dixi custodire verba ovium.
Per misericordiae tuae: ut animabus suis."

The circles started to shrink. Light from their edges connected, encasing the children in a glowing cylindrical prison. Seeing this, Lundel began to cry once more.

"Lundel-sama," Eichirou-sama paused his chant to call out to the boy from beyond the wind. "Trust in me."

The boy gave him a nod through tearing eyes and the Apostle gave him one back with a smile.

"Now, close your eyes. Breathe deep. Lie down. And relax."

The boy followed his steps accordingly. In a few seconds, he lay still, unmoving and seemingly unconscious. Seeing their son so lifeless next to their sleeping daughter, Luluaria began to cry and wail, leaving Eliheid to hold on to her tightly. Eichirou-sama just looked at them kindly before finishing the spell.

"Divinum Praesidium!"

The room was enveloped in a brilliant light. King Eliheid had never experienced a divine oracle before. Nor was he present when the Apostles were summoned to the Temple's altar. But as he and his family basked in the warm glow, he wondered if this was what it felt like to behold a god's power.

Should he pass on to the next life, Eliheid S.B. Heiligh would never forget the light that was as warm as a mother's smile and strong as a father's embrace.

Eiyooo Double Upload!

Or double from where I am as it isn't even past midnight yet. Anyways, to make up for the delayed update, here's another one.

Now before anyone starts ranting, yes. This is the same day as the previous chapter. But it's a week after the summoning! So, progress. Sure, Hajime isn't eating shit from dungeon crawling, but if you wanted that, why did you start reading an OC-centric fanfic in the first place?

I mean, really bruh/sis? We have a thing called canon. You should check it out.

And to my surprise, I actually got a hater. Uh, hello there, person-who-seems-disappointed-I-write-stuff-even-though-you-picking-this-up-was-totally-optional-for-you. Thank you for the one view per chapter you gave. I appreciate you taking your time to check this out, if you're still there bookmarking this.

Now, to those who have been keeping up, I'm pleased to inform you that we are getting close to where I plan on diverging from canon. I mean, from volume one of the web-novel and light-novel.

Not the anime. That thing sucked waaaay too much in just a single episode, I can't even put it near my Recommendation List before burning it in the trash.

In around three or so chapters, I'll kick off this OC's own adventure separate from what canon gave us. To those who find the pace too slow and want it as fast as the anime that every episode has a flashback, you can go watch that trash. I wanna do this right, no gas it up to eleven.

Side note, if you're annoyed by all the minor OC's, I really needed placeholders. You don't like them, try reading and writing dialogue for (Noble #4), (Nobleman #2), (Confused Lady #0), and (Crying Child #69), over and over and let's see you try to not get bored.

That's all from me for today. I'm pooped from doing thesis papers

Again, DO NOT expect a proper scheduled update from me. I write at my own pace. Don't like it? I'll rush it. But then you don't get rights to complain about it being shit. You asked for it.

P.S. To those that can read Latin, I'm really sorry you had to burn your eyes. I know It's shit, but I only have Google. Think you can do better, hit me with a PM and I'll credit you. Just don't expect to get paid. I do this stuff as a free hobby.

P.P.S. 106 Followers and 84 Favs. You guys either have zero standards or are really just bored of all the other better stuff to read on this site. Thanks for the support.