Irreplaceable

by Hecavimu

Balleroy Temeglyph was more than just a Divine General of the Empire. He was a friend. A brother. Someone who everyone respected and admired. It wasn't fair that he was taken so soon.

"Hah...Well would you look at that."

Squinting due to the bright sunlight, a young man with swept back brown hair gave a smile almost as bright as the sun itself. Throwing the covers off, he got out of his bed, ready to start the day.

"I hope breakfast is decent today. Yesterday it was far too under seasoned. Hopefully the cooks got some new lessons," he chuckled.

The man in question was Balleroy Temeglyph. The Ninth Divine General of the Sacred Empire of Vollachia. As an experienced fighter and possessor of such an esteemed title, Balleroy was both feared and respected throughout all the land. It was something he took great pride in, and he was sure to not take any of it for granted.

Putting on his uniform, Balleroy was prepared to do whatever duty was assigned to him that day. Making sure his hair was perfect, he then gave a dashing smile to himself in the mirror before heading off.

And of course, he couldn't start his day off properly without greeting his sworn brother.

"Good morning, Miles! Sun's shining pretty damn bright today, wouldn't you say?" he greeted. Standing in the castle halls, Balleroy managed to meet up with Miles. The man he had the closest relationship with.

Miles appeared to be the complete opposite of Balleroy in terms of looks. While Balleroy was handsome with well-kept hair and beautiful eyes, Miles had a rat-like face and shaggy gray hair and eyes sunken and nasty. Despite their differences though, they both held each other in high regards and cared for one another deeply.

A kinship that one could never break.

Miles' response to Balleroy's greeting was less than stellar, though. Fitting his seemingly callous nature, Miles simply snorted. "Would that be considered a good or bad thing, Balle? Personally I prefer it cloudy so I don't get the damn light in my eyes."

Balleroy raised his arms high above his head before folding his hands behind his neck. "Hehe! You've always been super sensitive to that stuff, haven't you?"

Miles clicked his tongue. "Ahh shut up. Not everyone can be as perfect as you, ya twerp."

Balleroy ruffled Miles hair, simultaneously annoying and amusing him. "You seriously got to work on that attitude of yours. No one will like you if you're grumpy all the time."

Miles gave a sour look, his unhandsome features expressing distaste. "People already dislike me, Balleroy." He then pointed to his face. "Not exactly my intention, however."

Balleroy then felt some sense of guilt swarm his heart. "M-My bad, Miles. I should have been more sensitive."

Miles then just waved his hand nonchalantly. "Don't worry about it, Balle. I know ya mean well, dammit."

The walk was more light-hearted after that, and the two exchanged their plans and assignments for the day. With Miles' being far more intriguing and suprising than Balleroy would have expected.

"You're going to head to the Kingdom of Lugnica?!" Balleroy exclaimed in shock.

Miles motioned for him to shush. "Quiet! It's not exactly something everyone knows about!" he hissed.

Balleroy nodded, before rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "Okay. But why? Aren't you needed here?"

Miles sighed. "Not that anyone wants me here," he whispered, just barely loud enough for Balleroy to hear. "Some members of the Emperor's Council have tasked me with trying to find something about the Sacrament of the Immortal King."

Balleroy vocalized in awe. "Ohhh, I've heard of that. That's one of the most unique and powerful spells ever created!"

Miles chuckled viciously. "Exactly. That's why I'm tasked with finding information about it. And, between you and me, I got a good idea as to where I can look."

Balleroy quirked a brow. "Oh? Is that so?"

Miles nodded. "Yeah. Apparently House Argyle has a copy of the tome somewhere on their land. So—" Miles smirked with pride. "—I'll try and find a way to snatch it from them."

Balleroy gave a nervous chuckle. "Well you better be careful. We wouldn't want to start a war with Lugnica, after all."

"Relax, relax. I got it under control. Everything will be just fine," Miles said with a dark chuckle.

Balleroy's schedule was much less grand. He only had some paperwork to do. How boring.

Still though, the task given to Miles was rather daunting. He hoped he'd be all right.

"You planning on seeing those O'Connell siblings today? I'd like to come with, if so. Since I won't be here for a while," Miles propositioned.

Balleroy grinned. "Ah yes! I was actually hoping to see Flop and Medium today! I hope their business is doing well. It's been too long since we last talked."

Flop and Medium were both considered Balleroy and Miles' adorable little siblings. Loving and sweet, they both believed them to be too good for the Empire. Despite that however, the pair of military men made it their duty to protect and cherish the blonde siblings with all their heart.

"That Medium. I swear, she's growing too damn tall!" Miles chuckled. "And Flop, he needs to cut his hair."

"I don't think they'll take too kindly to you criticizing them as soon as you meet," Balleroy said dryly.

"I know when to shut my mouth, dammit. Unlike you," Miles prodded.

"Yeah yeah." The two's friendly banter continued before they parted ways for their respective missions.

For Balleroy, he went to the emperor himself in order to be briefed on his daily assignments. And given how it was just paperwork and the like, Vincent only handed him the files and ordered him to have it turned in by the end of the day.

"I expect you'll have it returned to me in no time," Vincent said with a confident smirk. "You often do get your work done early, after all."

Balleroy bowed to the emperor, keeping his polite smile. "I always give maximum effort for any assignment given to me by you, Your Majesty," he said courteously. Vincent waved off his loyalty, dismissing him for the time being.

"Yes yes, you've made that abundantly clear. Now, get to work." With that order being given, Balleroy gave one last bow before exiting the emperor's chambers, paperwork tucked under his left arm.

"Hope the rest of the Divine Generals are having as swell of a time as me," he muttered sarcastically. As if on cue, a sudden gust of wind zipped past him, almost making the paperwork fly out from under his arm. Balleroy managed to catch it, however. And looked to the man who had so rudely disturbed him.

"Hey, Cecilus-kun! Hasn't His Majesty requested you to stop running in the halls? Especially at that speed," Balleroy scolded. The man in question had stopped in his tracks right next to Balleroy. His face sporting a cheeky grin that was fitting for his frivolous personality.

"Oopsies! Sorry, Balleroy-kun," Cecilus crowed before sticking his tongue out playfully. Balleroy only rolled his eyes as he smiled at the first ranked Divine General.

"Geez. What is His Majesty going to do with you? It's honestly a miracle you haven't ran straight into a wall just yet," Balleroy joked.

Cecilus pouted at that remark and put his hands on his hips. "Hey!" the blue-haired man shouted. "Have some more faith in my abilities, yeah? I do outrank you, you know?"

Balleroy nodded. "I know, I know. I wasn't criticizing your skills at all, Cecilus-kun. Just warning you." Balleroy's blue eyes showed genuine concern for Cecilus, which surprised him. In turn, the man in the kimono reeled back his aggression and resumed his more laid-back approach.

"Ahaha! Well, that's very sweet of you, Balleroy-kun. But I promise nothing bad will happen. And besides, I'm in a hurry!"

"His Majesty has a lot of assignments for you today?" Balleroy guessed.

"Nope! Something else entirely! Oh crap, I gotta go! Later Balleroy-kun! Thanks for the quick chat!"

Like lightning, Cecilus then disappeared in a flash. Zooming down the halls and out the nearest exit in mere seconds. Balleroy's paper almost flew out into the air again, but he held them close in his palms to prevent that from happening.

He then heard heavy breathing coming from behind him. Recognizing the sound, he turned his head with a polite smile, ready to greet another comrade of his. "Ah, Arakiya-san! Good morning!"

Slowing to a stop, a dog-human with tan skin and revealing clothing hunched over to catch her breath. Balleroy looked down at her concerned, but she held a hand up to prevent him from talking just yet.

"He came by here, didn't he?" she croaked, voice raspy.

"H-Huh?" Balleroy tilted his head. "Arakiya-san. I have no idea what-"

"Cecilus ran by here, didn't he?!" Arakiya shouted. With her teeth clenched, Balleroy could see the hatred in her eye. Not eyes, as one of them was covered by an eyepatch. But that didn't diminish the emotion shown from her good eye.

Balleroy blinked. "O-Oh. Yes, he did-Hey, hold on a second! You're not trying to kill him again, are you?"

Arakiya frowned in disgust. "That bastard needs to die. And I'm going to be the one that does him in."

Balleroy remained silent for a moment at Arakiya's violent conviction, before sighing. "Okay then...Well, he went that way. Just...make sure not to involve any citizens in your little squabble."

Arakiya nodded. "I swear on it, Balleroy. Much appreciated." Collecting herself, Arakiya then began to sprint down the hallways once more, hoping to catch up with the man clad in blue and possibly defeat him.

Even though there was no shot of that happening.

"Sometimes I wonder what is wrong with those two..." Balleroy murmured. He did like Cecilus and Arakiya a lot, but even he had to admit that they were rather odd.

"Oh well. Best I get to work. I'd like to get done early so I can see Flop and Medium."

Finding a suitable spot to do his work, Balleroy grabbed a pen and some ink and began to fill out what was assigned to him. As he expected, it was a really boring job, but it had to get done. Otherwise someone incompetent or lazy would take it over, and thus lead to more trouble down the line. So it'd be best for him to just get it over with.

He couldn't handle writing for hours on end, however, and knew that he had to take a break eventually. So once about two-thirds of his work was done, he got up out of his seat in order to stretch and take a break for a while.

As he was walking around the castle, allowing his legs to stretch and get some energy out, he spotted two more Divine Generals lounging by a windowsill. Having gotten his attention, Balleroy couldn't not greet the two of them.

"Well would you look at that!" Balleroy said in mock surprise. "If it isn't my favorite hyena-human and steel-human all in one place! How are you two doing?"

The hyena in question, Groovy, simply snorted. "Nice ta see ya too, jackass."

Balleroy pursed his lips at Groovy's vulgar greeting. "Well, that's not very nice, Groovy-kun. You ought to be more polite if you want people to like you more. Isn't that right, Mogro-san?"

"Hell...o..." The tall nine foot behemoth of brown metal spoke in a broken tone. Still, that did not prevent it from speaking somewhat comprehensively.

Balleroy laughed in good-nature. "See there? Mogro-san is so much more polite than you, Groovy-kun!"

The small hyena-human clicked his tongue. "Aww shaddup! Why don't ya bury yerself in a hole for Od's sake!? Goddamn pretty-boy bastard..." he muttered.

Balleroy only smirked at his comments. "Yeah yeah. I know, you adore me. Say, mind if I sit and chat with you guys for a bit? I gotta get my mind off of this boring paperwork I have to do!"

Mogro spoke once more in a cold, slow tone. "Balleroy...allowed...to stay..."

Groovy crossed his arms before turning his nose up at the ceiling. "Yeah, you can stay if ya want. I ain't gonna throw a fit about it."

Sitting next to the duo, Balleroy leaned back and gave a warm smile. "Great! I'll try not to keep you occupied for too long!"

They ended up talking for three hours straight.

—

Leaning out of the window, a young woman with long blonde hair and blue eyes sighed longingly. Her brother, sharing in her hair and eye color, rolled his eyes at her attitude.

"All right, Lil Sis. What's the matter?" he asked.

"Big Bro, Balleroy said he'd be here by now in his letter, and he still hasn't shown up!" she whined.

Her brother sighed. "Medium, it really isn't all that concerning. I'm sure that Balleroy and Miles will be here shortly. You just have to be patient."

Medium groaned. "Big Bro, you're far too optimistic! What if something bad happened?"

Medium's brother, Flop, just shook his head. "And you are far too anxious, dear sister. I can assure you that they will arrive shortly."

"Whatever. You better be right," Medium pouted. She continued to look out the window, silently waiting for her big brothers to arrive already. It had been months since they last saw each other. Medium felt it was fair for her to be so excited to see them again.

Although Flop was also excited to see his sworn brothers once again, he managed it better than his little sister, and in turn found productive ways for him to pass the time rather than just staring out the window all day. From occasional housework to reading, Flop found ways to entertain himself whilst Medium bided her time at the windowsill.

If there was an upside to Medium's way however, it's that she would be the first to witness Balleroy and Miles' return. So when they did finally arrive, she could alert Flop about it immediately.

"Ahh! Big Bro! Big Bro!" And as expected, she did. "They're here! They're finally here!"

Ceasing his current activities and rushing forward into the room containing his sister, Flop finally allowed himself to slip a small eager smile at the revelation. Walking over to where Medium was stationer, Flop looked out the window as well as Medium gave a beaming grin.

The sun above them was blotted causing shadows to engulf the O'Connell's entire residence. The cause for this predicament was of course none other than the dragon that belonged to Balleroy and Miles. With a quiet roar, the dragon slowly drifted towards the ground before landing on the grass with a thump. With Balleroy and Miles riding atop of it.

"Big Bro Balleroy! Big Bro Miles!" The blonde woman with braided hair shouted gleefully as she ran towards the duo, both feeling their moods lighten instantly upon seeing her cheerful face.

"Hey Medium! Sorry I'm late!" Balleroy apologized. He hopped off of his dragon before smoothening out his suit. "Work was hell, today. So I apologize that GAAGHK—"

Unexpectedly, Medium pulled Balleroy in to a bone-crushing hug, almost squeezing the air out of the poor man's lungs. After a short while of nearly being suffocated to death, Medium let go and Balleroy managed to get some fresh air.

"Don't apologize! You're here now! That's all that matters." Miles gave a quiet chuckle, before maneuvering over to the towering blonde.

"Ahh…Is it me? Or are you gettin' taller everytime I see you?" he asked with a slight grovel in his voice.

Medium scratched her cheek with an embarrassed expression. "Ehehehe…I have been growing rather tall, haven't I?"

"I'll say! I can't even give ya a headpat anymore! While you've been growin', I've been shrinkin'," Miles laughed. Medium responded by patting Miles' head, which slightly irritated him. Still, he did nothing to shake her hand off.

Flop, who had been mostly silent during their reunion, finally made his presence known as he walked over and bowed to Balleroy and Miles. "Balleroy, Miles, it's great to see you again," he said with genuine gratitude.

Miles gave a warm smile. "There's my Flop! How've ya been holdin' up? Hope no bastards have been messin' with ya both."

Medium pouted. "Big Bro Miles! As if anyone would mess with us." She gestured to the swords sheathed by her hip. "Not when I got these on me!"

"You haven't been skipping out on practicing with those, now have you?" Balleroy asked with a cheeky grin. Medium playfully punched his shoulder.

"As if! I promise you that one day I'm gonna become super strong! Maybe strong enough to be a Divine General!"

"Now let's not get too far," Miles chuckled. "It's dangerous work, lady. I'd rather you not be on the front end of such chaos. Still though, practicing defense is good. When are you gonna follow in your sister's footsteps, Flop?"

"Ermm…I'm not much of a fighter, Miles. I think if anything, I'd do better in a field such as your own."

Balleroy stepped in for Flop. "Flop doesn't need to fight if he doesn't want to. In fact, I'd much prefer if Medium doesn't fight either." He gave warm smiles to the blonde siblings as he addressed them. "They're both far too kind for that sort of thing."

Medium's eyes almost welled up with tears. "Dawww! Big Bro Balleroy!" Bearly wailing, she latched onto Balleroy and held him tight due to his sweet words. While Flop gave looks of sincere admiration and wonder towards him.

"Awright awright. Enough with the sappy crap. You two got food ready or somethin'? I'm starvin'!" Miles exclaimed.

Medium bonked him on the head. "So rude!" Miles in turn reached up and pinched her ear, in which Medium instantly yielded.

Flop ignored the two's squabble and started to walk back to his house. "Yes! We have some food cooking actually! You're welcome to join!"

Balleroy grinned. "Perfect! It can be a good ole' family meal! Just like when we were younger!"

Medium threw her arms around Balleroy and Miles, and guided them forward following Flop as the four became a family once more.

—

Sitting alone in a cave overseeing a cliff, a young girl with sky blue hair and amber eyes awaited patiently. The most noticeable trait of the young girl was the two black horns protruding from her forehead, signifying her rare heritage. The girl was Madelyn Eschart, a dragonkin. Possibly the last one left alive in the world.

She had no parents, no siblings, and no friends. None except the numerous flying dragons she conversed and lived with.

Well, there was one other friend she had. The Divine General Balleroy Temeglyph.

He was likely the only person she talked with. After seeing her in the caves all by her lonesome one day, the concerned brunette man went to investigate, only to be instantly attacked. After some time though, he managed to calm down the feisty dragonkin, and eventually befriended her.

He then made a promise that everyday, he would come and visit. He would teach her about society and culture, in hopes to eventually get her out of her cave and talk with other people, rather than just him.

And with her impressive strength, he hoped he could train her as his protege as well. Balleroy saw Madelyn as a little sister, just one that had dragon horns. So he made it a personal mission for him to protect and care for her, just like Flop and Medium. He hoped he could introduce them some day.

It became tradition for Balleroy to visit at a very specific time frame, yet today was different. He was late. Hours late. Late enough for Madelyn to become worried.

She wanted to try going out to see if he was all right, but…she didn't want to leave her cave just yet.

So she waited. She waited, and waited, and waited.

Until finally—

"Woah there!" Hearing that familiar voice and the sound of flapping wings, Madelyn stood up immediately and ran towards the entrance of the cave.

Although she was relieved to see Balleroy casually petting his dragon after landing, she was also furious. He had been so late, and he never warned her beforehand!

"You're late." Giving her signature frown, Madelyn crossed her arms with an angry glare in her eye.

Balleroy blinked a couple of times before giving a wry smile. "Ahahh! You're right! My bad, Madelyn-chan! I was just so busy with work today, and I—"

Sniffing the air, Madelyn growled and bared her fangs. "I smell two unfamiliar scents lingering on you. Who were you with? The dragon demands you answer!"

Balleroy sighed as he pinched the bridge of his nose. "I was just getting to that. I spent time with Flop and Medium since I haven't seen them in almost a year."

"Who are they? What importance do they serve?" Madelyn asked.

"They're like my little siblings. I grew up with them when I was little. They're practically family."

"F-Family…" Madelyn looked down at the ground. She now felt a little bit bad about being so hostile before. Family was something she cherished dearly. Her dragons meant the world to her. She could see Balleroy believing the same about the two siblings as well.

"Yes. Me and my bro Miles went to visit them for dinner. Oh! That reminds me." Humming as he rummaged through his bag, Balleroy pulled out some wrapping before handing it to Madelyn. "Here, try this."

"Huh?" Madelyn took hold of it before sniffing it. She recoiled at the strange sensation before eyeing it suspiciously. "J-Just what is this?!"

"It's Flop's cooking. I saved some for you. Go on, try it!" Balleroy encouraged. Unwrapping the food, Madelyn hesitantly took a bite, before realizing it actually tasted not that bad.

So she then ferally devoured the entire thing, while Balleroy sweat dropped at what he was witnessing.

"G-Glad you like it…" he said quietly.

Having already finished eating, Madelyn looked up at Balleroy expectantly. "Well?" she huffed. "Don't you have it?"

Balleroy nodded. "Oh right! Of course, of course." He reached into his bag once again, this time pulling out a book. "You really like this book, don't you? How many times have you made me read it to you again?"

Madelyn pouted. "Does it matter? Is reading such a tiring experience for you humans?!" she shouted. Balleroy shook his head.

"Nooooo…Just that…you can read it yourself, you know?"

"Hmph!" Madelyn turned her head arrogantly to the side. "The dragon is well aware of that fact! I didn't realize you humans were so weak-willed!"

"Who taught you to read again?" Balleroy said with a smirk as he knelt down in front of her. He then ruffled her light blue hair, which only served to agitate the dragonkin even more.

"Gagh! Unhand me, fool! Or I'll bite you!"

At that threat, Balleroy instantly retracted his hand before chuckling. "Sorry, sorry. Hey, it's getting late. Why don't we get to reading then, yeah?"

Madelyn crossed her arms. "Yes. Let's."

Eventually, Balleroy was sitting on the rock ground with the book in hand, reading it softly to Madelyn. The young girl listened intently. Even though she had heard the story many times, it never got old for her.

Once Balleroy was done, he expected that to be the end of his visit, but Madelyn suggested otherwise.

Or more-so, demand-wise.

"You cannot leave yet!" Madelyn shouted. "The dragon commands you stay!"

"And just what authority do you have that makes you think you can force me to stay here? I gotta get up early tomorrow, Madelyn-chan."

"That is irrelevant!" Madelyn yelled. "You need to make up for lost time!"

Balleroy sighed. "Really? I have to do extra overtime just because I was a few hours late? Can you please just overlook it this one time? This was the first time I was late ever!"

Madelyn turned her head away. "I will not."

Balleroy sighed before reaching into his bag. "Uuuggghh fine. I was going to save this as a present for later but since you're so needy. Here," he handed her a pink piece of fabric. "Take it."

"What is this? What would a dragon need this cloth for?" Madelyn said as she squinted at the object.

"It's a pink bow! I thought it looked cute, so I bought it. I was thinking about giving it to Medium or Arakiya-san, but they both refused. Then I thought, 'wouldn't Madelyn-chan like it?' So I—"

"I refuse your gift!" Madelyn interrupted as she tossed it aside. Balleroy gasped in shock before falling to his knees.

"I spent so much on it though…" he said.

"I want to go dragon riding!" Madelyn said, ignoring Balleroy's hurt feelings.

Sensing the chance to get some revenge, Balleroy smirked with pride. "Oh yeah?" He stood up suddenly, before whistling loudly, signalling for his dragon to come to his side. "Then we'll go by my rules."

Outside, Madelyn looked back to her cave where her fellow dragons resided. "Wait just a second. Shouldn't the dragon's comrades accompany her?"

Balleroy clicked his tongue. "Nope! Today, we're both going to be riding my dragon only!" he said with a hint of mischief.

"Huh?" The girl narrowed her eyes at Balleroy, untrusting. "And just what makes you believe the dragon will accompany you?!"

Balleroy sighed. "Well if that's how you want it, I suppose I'll just leave—"

"No!" Madelyn growled as she realized she had no say in the matter. "Okay fine! The dragon will heed your request just this once."

Balleroy smiled. "Perfect! Now hop on. And hold on tight."

Madelyn had just gotten seated behind Balleroy as he finished his sentence. "Hold on for WHAAA—"

In a flash, the dragon belonging to Balleroy then shot up into the air with quick succession, speed unrivaled by any other creature. Madelyn gripped onto the saddle she was sitting on with all her might. Even though usually she never sat atop a saddle whenever she rode her dragons. This situation however, called for it. Balleroy, who was used to such force and pressure by the wind, laughed heartily as his dragon soared through the atmosphere, breaking through the clouds.

"You are insane!" Madelyn shouted. "Are you trying to kill me?!"

"Ahh lighten up, Madelyn-chan. Take a look around you. Isn't the view wonderful?" Balleroy asked. After the rough beginning, Madelyn was hesitant to even open her eyes. When she did however—

"What do you—! Woah..." The girl's eyes sparkled with amazement at what she was witnessing. They were probably high enough to touch the stars, and that gave one of the most breathtaking views imaginable. Peeking through the clouds, Madelyn could swear she could see the entire empire from where she was positioned.

"Awesome, isn't it? Don't worry, I won't force you to stay up here for too long. If you want to get down, I won't stop you." Balleroy looked back to Madelyn, who pursed her lips.

"No. This is fine. It's not too bad, I guess."

Balleroy gave a kind smile. "I'm glad to hear that, Madelyn-chan."

After riding around for a bit longer and saying goodbye to Madelyn, Balleroy finally managed to get to sleep in the middle of the night.

He could tell he was going to have a long day tomorrow.

—

A few months have passed since then.

Balleroy slowly walked towards the castle, except this time, Miles wasn't there to greet him.

From now on, Miles would never be there to greet him ever again.

He had gotten the news a week ago. His sworn brother, his closest friend, had been killed. By none other than the Sword Saint himself.

He wasn't sure how to process it at first. All he could do was sit alone in his room for hours on end. Just...thinking. The realization eventually hit him though, and the insurmountable sorrow and grief began to overwhelm him.

But aside from those emotions, he felt anger as well. Anger towards the redhead swordsman whom he swore revenge on. No matter what.

It was part of that which motivated him to go to work today. So he could inch closer and closer to becoming stronger. Strong enough to maybe at least stand a chance against him.

Even though deep down inside he knew it to be a lost cause.

Still, he continued marching forward. His expression stern and serious. Most of the knights and guards who saw him were overcome with fear. Despite their want to console the general, they knew better than to possibly agitate someone of his caliber.

Balleroy expected everyone to ignore him. Move on as if nothing had happened. He knew that he may be alone in his misery, save for Flop and Medium. He didn't even know what they must have felt when they first got the news. The images of their heart-wrenched faces saddened him greatly.

"Balleroy-kun..."

Startled, Balleroy turned around swiftly with his weapon in hand, the blade pressing against the person's neck. When Balleroy saw who it was that he nearly assaulted however, he quickly drew back his weapon before bowing slightly in apology.

"Chisha-san..." Balleroy said quietly. The man before him was the fourth ranked Divine General. With skin as pale as snow and the hair to match it, he really did stand out in a crowd. It was a wonder that Balleroy didn't notice him until now.

He must have been lost so deep in his grief that he lost sight of his surroundings.

Chisha gave a smile to Balleroy, which is something the brunette didn't expect. Considering he almost attacked him and all. However, Chisha's eyes showed that of understanding.

"Balleroy-kun," Chisha said softly. His voice exuded that of sympathy and compassion, characteristics odd for those in the Empire's military. "I understand that recently you have experienced an immense loss."

Balleroy opened his mouth to speak, but his voice ran dry. So instead, he only looked toward the ground in shame. "Y-Yeah. That's correct."

"Miles, correct? That was his name? He was a loyal and valued member of this Empire. He served greatly, and was a remarkable individual."

"Thank you." Balleroy felt his heart lift slightly at Chisha's words. He hadn't expected him to be so...empathetic about the situation. While Vollachia was a rough place, there were plenty of kind and generous people that resided there. Flop and Medium being apart of that group. However, those that were apart of the Emperor's military weren't as nice. The philosophy of the strong residing over the weak was much more present than in a standard town or village. Despite that though, Chisha seemed to break that convention by being regarded as one of the nicest individuals by the Emperor's side.

Although considered odd by many, Balleroy was grateful for Chisha's presence.

"I just wanted to offer my condolences. I hope your grief subsides and you feel better soon," Chisha bowed. Balleroy managed to crakc a smile and scratched the back of his head.

"Awww Chisha-san. You're way too nice!" he said happily. Chisha gave a quiet chuckle in response.

"I hear that a lot. I also talked with the Emperor, and while he's not giving you the day off at my suggestion, he is lightening your workload for the week."

"Wait, what?!" Balleroy said shocked. "You...you really went that far for me?"

Chisha just shrugged. "Of course. You are my comrade, after all. Although it did take a lot of persistence on my part. His Majesty can be so unforgiving at times." Balleroy was perturbed, but he definitely wouldn't complain.

"What a great guy," he whispered when Chisha walked away. His mood having been lifted a bit, Balleroy felt himself suited for work now.

It was slow and monotonous, but as Chisha said, it didn't last that long. So when he was ready to leave, he expected to be scorned by his colleagues for receiving such treatment.

Instead, it was the exact opposite.

"B-Balleroy!" Wearing a complete outfit of golden armor, a man with orange hair and a beard bowed down to Balleroy.

Balleroy blinked, before trying to ease the tension of the situation. "Hey now, Goz-kun. Why so serious? You only really act so formal with the Emperor."

Goz stood up before bowing, a bit more slightly now, apologetically. "Forgive me. I just wanted to offer my sincerest condolences for your loss, Balleroy. Miles was an excellent soldier and benefited this Empire immensely. I cannot express my gratitude enough for what he has done."

Balleroy smiled warmly. "That means a lot coming from you, Goz-kun. I'm sure Miles would have been proud to hear those words."

The proud Divine General gave an acknowledging nod before he gave Balleroy his space. Truly, Goz was a well-respected and admirable individual. So to hear such praise from him was unbelievable, yet gratifying to hear.

Apart from him, Balleroy encountered another Divine General. Except it was one he barely interacted with, apart from stopping her numerous revolts and riots.

"Y-Yorna-san?!" Unexpectedly running into the fox-human, Balleroy couldn't help but be slightly on edge while next to her. Yorna's unpredictable and rebellious nature often spelled trouble for the Empire. It's a miracle she hasn't been executed yet.

"Hello, Balleroy..." Yorna said lazily as she blew a puff of smoke. With her laid-back demeanor, Balleroy felt it was safe for him to be with her at the moment, and so let his guard down.

"I-Is there a reason why you are here, Yorna-san?" Balleroy asked. Yorna eyed him with her beautiful blue eyes before taking a few slow steps forward to him.

Balleroy looked at the woman apprehensively, before she suddenly placed her hand on his head, ruffling his hair.

"H-Huh?" Balleroy blinked in surprise, unable to comprehend what was happening.

And as quick as it started, it was over.

"Take care, Balleroy," Yorna said as she walked past him.

"That was odd..." Balleroy muttered, but he did appreciate the offer. He supposed that was just how Yorna showed her condolences.

Regardless, despite the lingering sadness still etched in Balleroy's heart, the support from his comrades helped him out a lot.

He supposed that now it was his turn to do the same thing.

—

Balleroy rushed to Flop and Medium's residence as quickly as possible. As he expected, they were already waiting for him.

He knew that for now, he would have to hold in his feelings, and be the anchor for Flop and Medium and let them let out all their emotions. So he would be a cold-stone statue for now.

He hadn't even allowed himself to cry just yet, so he would allow Flop and Medium to cry for him.

Medium wailed loudly. Her cries echoing out into the distance as she clutched onto Balleroy. Every ounce of pain and mourning poured its way out in the form of flowing tears and shrill cries.

"It's not fair!" Medium shouted. "It's not fair!"

Balleroy patted Medium on the back as she continued to tightly hold him, squeezing him as if her life depended on it.

"I know, Medium. I know." Balleroy could do nothing but offer his support to his little sister figure, being the shoulder she would lean and cry on.

While Medium was much more vocal about her grief, Balleroy could sense Flop doing everything he could to hold it in. On the outside, it seemed as if nothing was bothering the other blonde at all, but on the inside, he was hurting just as much as his sister.

"He didn't have to kill him! I know what Big Bro Miles did was wrong but... They didn't have to kill him!"

Balleroy clenched his teeth and tightened his fists. It really wasn't fair at all. They could have taken Miles prisoner. They had no reason to execute him like that.

"They could've worked something out! But he...he couldn't help himself!" Medium yelled. Her eyes flashed with rage as she thought about the redheaded swordsman. "I'll never forgive him! I'll never forgive Reinhard van Astrea!"

Balleroy's gaze grew dark. "Me neither, Medium. I promise you, I will avenge Miles. Whatever it takes."

Medium's hateful eyes then switched into that of concern. "N-No, Big Bro Balleroy. You can't fight Reinhard. That man-No, he's no man. He's a monster! He'll kill you just like he did Big Bro Miles! Those so-called noble knights are nothing but a bunch of frauds and phonies! They'll slaughter anyone who gets in their way! They're evil!"

Balleroy couldn't help but feel guilty as Medium said that. If she had learned about the kind of things Balleroy had done while on duty as a general, she'd regard him as evil too if not worse. He needed to keep her innocent and pure. So he would take the punishment and consequences for himself.

"It's all right, Medium," Balleroy said. "I'll make things right, I swear it." Medium's eyes welled up with tears once more, and she collapsed her face into Balleroy's shoulder, soaking it with tears.

"Promise..." Medium shuddered as she took in a shaky breath. "Promise that you'll never leave us..."

Flop's eyes showed that of pure sympathy. Eventually, he couldn't look at the collapsed form of his crying sister any longer, and walked out the room to give them some space.

Balleroy held Medium tight. "I promise," he whispered. "I won't ever leave you and Flop. I swear it."

Balleroy continued to hold her even as she cried herself to sleep. Flop came in a few hours later to check up on them.

"How is she?" he asked, voice hoarse. He was likely crying, but did it without anyone witnessing.

Balleroy looked down at Medium's sleeping face. Tears stained her cheeks and her eyes were puffy and red. He sat beside her as he held her hand tightly.

"She's fine. Flop, I want you to promise me something."

"Hmm?" Flop looked down at Balleroy, who wore a solemn expression.

"Promise me you'll take care of your sister. If it's ever just you two against the world, then promise me-" He looked to Flop with a sharp, furious look. "Promise me you'll take on the world with all you've got."

Flop too wore a similarly determined expression. "Yes. I will. I swear it. I'll make it so our sister won't ever suffer again."

Balleroy then stood up, before suddenly hugging Flop.

"Don't forget to add yourself to that as well," Balleroy murmured. "You two are strong, and I want you to thrive, so please..."

After holding it in for so long, Balleroy finally let a tear slip.

"Fight for all your worth, whenever you can ."

—

He hadn't spoken to her since he arrived.

Madelyn sat in a corner of the dark cave watching silently. Concern and frustration swelled within her. A part of her wanted to berate Balleroy for being so silent, yet another knew that something must have been wrong in order for him to act like this.

She looked between the dragons that she was sitting with, and they all gave supportive snorts and bellows, cajoling her to go and talk with Balleroy already.

Eventually, the young dragon girl stood up on her two feet, before carrying herself over to her only true friend.

Balleroy noticed her immediately, but he still made no movement. He was sitting near the edge of the cliff where the cave resided, dangerously close to falling. The moon illuminated his features, and Madelyn could see just how sad he looked.

"B-Balleroy..." she said hesitantly. "T-The dragon demands to know! Just...just what is the matter?"

Balleroy snorted at her unique way of speaking, which he felt lightened the mood significantly. Madelyn didn't find it too funny however.

"W-What's so funny, human?!" she asked. "The dragon does not find anything she said amusing!"

Balleroy combed a hand through his brown hair, his blue eyes shining in the moonlight. "Sorry, I guess I just needed something to make me laugh. I...I haven't been feeling too well as of late."

Madelyn pursed her lips. "The dragon has noticed. You seem more...quiet than usual."

"Yeah. I guess I have." Balleroy then resumed his silence, which only served to tick Madelyn off. The young girl sat with her arms and legs crossed next to Balleroy.

"Y-You can tell the dragon anything on your mind. You needn't be afraid of my wrath," Madelyn assured.

"Your wrath?" Balleroy repeated confused. "Since when did a little kid like you get so much aggression in you?"

"D-Don't call me a little kid, moron! I'll claw your heart out!"

"Ahh. Scary! Girls aren't supposed to say such violent things, you know?" Balleroy bantered.

Madelyn growled. "Grrr...You are really irritating the dragon right now."

"Yeah yeah. Keep up that attitude of yours and you'll be ranked number three in my favorite siblings list," Balleroy joked.

"Number three?!" Madelyn shouted. "The dragon does not accept that title at all! Make me number one this instant! The dragon deserves to be number one!"

Balleroy shrugged his shoulders. "Sorry, but you'll have to be more respectful if you want that to happen. My little bro and little sis are the most kind, patient, and respectful people I know. You're more of the problem child that mom and dad always have to keep scolding."

"Hrrrrggghh..." Madelyn sneered. "And I suppose you're the big brother that gets all the praise and attention?"

Balleroy smirked. "You could say that. But, even if mom and dad don't pay attention to ya..." He then patted Madelyn's head in good nature. "Your brothers and sisters will always be there to look out for you."

Madelyn looked back to her dragons that slept in the cave. Yeah...even if she had no parents or siblings... She had her dragons. Her dragons were her family.

She supposed that Balleroy could also be considered family as well.

"Anyways, you want to know what's bothering me, yeah? Well...about a week ago, my brother died."

Madelyn blinked in shock. "Your brother?"

"Sort of. More like a soul brother. Like how I am with Flop and Medium and yourself. Even if we weren't biologically related, he still felt like a brother to me. To have him taken away so soon...it's unjust."

As Balleroy explained more about what happened to Miles, Madelyn felt the sadness in her heart become almost suffocating. She had no idea Balleroy was suffering this much. So she did what she thought was the best thing she could do right now.

Raising her outstretched hand, Madelyn gave a firm, hard smack to Balleroy's back. The man flinched in pain as he yelped in surprise, with Madelyn giving two more consecutive smacks to his back.

"Hey! What the hell are you doing?!" Balleroy shouted.

"The dragon is patting you on the back!" Madelyn explained.

"Oh... Is that so..." Balleroy smiled wryly as he sweat-dropped. "You're going to have to work harder on your shows of affection, Madelyn-chan. Most people don't treat patting someone on the back as if they're tryna kill somebody."

Madelyn then felt immense shame wash over her. "Oh. Sorry."

Balleroy then chuckled, before lightly patting her head. "It's all right. I know you mean well. Thank you, Madelyn-chan."

Madelyn then did something she rarely ever does.

She smiled.

"The dragon accepts your thanks, Balleroy!"

Balleroy made a promise to himself. A promise that he would protect his family.

He couldn't protect Miles, but he could protect Flop, Medium, and Madelyn. He would make sure they grew up safe and sound. He would make sure that they wouldn't suffer or experience any pain.

He also consided the other Divine Generals his family. Not as close as the three prior, but they were still people he cared for immensely, and he'd do anything for them.

Even if it costed him his life.

—

Balleroy Temeglyph was dead.

He had died fighting the Lugnican knight Julius Juukulius, after being outed in participating in a violent rebellion against the Emperor.

Shock and dismay surrounded the nation as its inhabitants couldn't believe the developments. Balleroy Temeglyph, the once respected and revered Divine General of the Empire, rebelled against the Emperor and subsequently died in battle.

It was tragic. It was heartbreaking. Yet not everyone saw it that way.

"Kakaka! How amusing! I was hoping one you Nine would be a traitor of sorts. A bit disappointing that it was Nine though."

Sitting in a chair rather casually, a wrinkled old man sneered as he gave those comments. The other Divine Generals were seated next to him, and a few couldn't hold in their anger.

"Oi, don't act so damn chill about all this!" Groovy was the first one to retaliate against the man named Olbart, and sneered at the old man as he calmly sipped his tea.

"Do not make such jokes, Olbart. Especially at the expense of Balleroy..." Arakiya warned. She flashed her weapon just to show how serious she was.

"Balleroy...dead. Mogro...sad." The large hulking steel-human expressed their emotions despite being so robotic. Groovy rested his paw against Mogro's arm and nodded somberly.

"Me too, pal. Me too."

Mogro lowered their head, as if bowing their head in shame. Despite the lack of facial expressions, Mogro's feelings were evident.

It was quite odd for a steel-human to show any emotions, but with Mogro, it was different.

Cecilus was silent the whole time, as was Yorna. They didn't really know how to express their feelings, so they just sat on the sidelines.

"Kaka! My bad," Olbart half-ass apologized. "Guess I struck a chord there, eh?"

Arakiya clicked her tongue. "Silence, Olbart!"

Olbart just squinted his eyes at the dog-human, a malicious aura emanating off of him. The most cold-hearted of the Divine Generals expressed his callousness to Arakiya, which pressured her to back off.

So Arakiya sat back, and decided to reserve her emotions. Even though that would eventually end up with her anger bubbling up in an explosive fury.

Chisha just stayed silent before getting up and leaving to be by the Emperor's side. Vincent acted rather nonchalant about Balleroy and his death, believing he could be replaced easily. Needless to say, Groovy and Arakiya were quite upset at Vincent's coldness.

"This isn't right. This isn't right!" Goz shouted. "Balleroy was a good man! Why did he turn on us to become a traitor!?"

With Goz's loyalty to the Empire being second to none, Goz couldn't help but hold back his rage and sadness at Balleroy's betrayal. As unfortunate as it was, Goz knew that now he would have to start looking for someone to take his place.

Although he did already have someone in mind.

Eventually, someone would come and take Balleroy's place. Despite how impactful his death was to the Empire and some of the other generals, he would get quickly replaced, and everything would go on like normal.

Well, as normal as Vollachia was, anyways.

—

"Waaaahaaahaaaaa!"

The loud cries that shook the earth itself belonged to that of Medium O'Connell. Her tears streamed down her face and made a puddle on the ground. Barely any time had passed since the loss of Miles, and now she had lost Balleroy as well.

She didn't care that he was technically a rebel. She didn't care that he went against the Emperor. None of that mattered to her. What mattered was that the kind, sweet man whom Medium adored with all her heart was dead. Killed by another knight from Lugnica.

Reinhard and Julius. Two of the strongest knights from Lugnica. And according to Medium, two of the most heartless. How cruel could they be to take away two of her sworn brothers? How could they be considered heroes if they killed Medium's family? Now all she had in this world was Flop, and if anyone were to harm him, she wouldn't know what to do with herself. She would train and train so that she could protect Flop, and then they could take their revenge on the world together.

She hated the Empire. She hated the Kingdom of Lugnica. She hated it all. She just wanted to live a peaceful life with her family. Was that too much to ask? Was it really too much to ask for no one to hurt her or her family?

Why did the world hate her so much?

It wasn't fair at all. She didn't deserve this. Flop didn't deserve this. Balleroy and Miles didn't deserve this.

Medium's blue eyes shimmered in dismal melancholy. She had accepted that Balleroy and Miles were dead, but she couldn't stop crying.

So she would continue to cry. She'd cry and cry until her heart gave out. It was the least she could do for her sworn brothers.

As Medium continued to cry by her lonesome, Flop stood from a distance and clenched his fists tightly.

Flop tried his best to hold in the tears, managing to hold them back but still hiccup in the process.

"Balleroy... You knew your time would be up soon, didn't you?" he said quietly.

He couldn't believe that Balleroy had died when he heard the news. It felt like some sort of cruel joke. And yet, it was the truth. Miles and Balleroy died in such a short timeframe. What was next? Medium would get murdered by a Lugnican spy? It was too much.

It was too much for the blonde siblings.

Flop slowly walked over to Medium and hugged her from behind.

Now it was just them. Them against the world. And like how Flop promised Balleroy...

They would take their revenge against the world.

—

She wasn't sure how she heard of the news, but when she did, she was furious.

She did remember sitting alone in her cave for days on end, waiting and waiting for Balleroy to arrive, but he never did. Until the sun rose and fell, Madelyn would stay in the same position.

Days passed by. Then weeks. Madelyn grew actually worried. So she ventured out into the world to see if she could gather information.

Somewhere between that timeframe and now, she learned the truth about what happened to Balleroy, and her reaction was as expected.

The one person in the world who didn't turn her away. Who went out of his way to spend time with her and befriend her. Who read her books and told her stories.

The one person who she considered to be a benefit to the world, was dead.

Balleroy was her only friend. Someone she trusted and liked. And for the world to dangle the one source of happiness for the girl and hope for the future and yank it away was just too cruel and unforgiving.

So she would take out her anger on the world.

Madelyn screamed until her throat hurt as she ran towards a large boulder. With only her fists, Madelyn crushed the rock into smithereens before continually punching the remains into dust. Turning around, Madelyn then leaped forward to a tree and gave it a swift kick, knocking some of the wood off into tiny splinters.

Madelyn screamed in both pain and frustration, before beginning to punch the same tree until bloody marks appeared on her knuckles. She then clawed at the tree, shredding the bark as she continued her rampage.

She had finally left her cave, if only to wreak havoc on the forest nearby her. She would punch, kick, and claw at everything in her path. The only thing that was present in her heart besides grief, was rage.

She wasn't able to cry to show her immense sadness, so instead all she could do was scream and shout and yell in agony. She shook her head back and forth as she stomped her foot into the ground. She then grabbed a small rock nearby and threw it as far as she could, before the ember-eyed girl then pounded her fists into the ground, kicking up dirt and dust as she growled and seethed with anger.

Baring her fangs, Madelyn continued to roar in fury as she punched and slashed at every tree and rock she passed by. She even killed and massacred multiple mabeasts that crossed her path. She didn't care what, she just had to fight something. She needed to exact her vengeance.

But a simple tree or rock or even mabeast wasn't what she was wanting to hurt. No, the real target of her rage was the one who killed Balleroy. Julius Juukulius.

After hearing that he was the one responsible for killing Balleroy, Madelyn swore on her life that she would eventually take her revenge and kill him. That way she could finally die happy after avenging Balleroy. It was her one wish in the world. She had nothing else to keep her going besides that. If Julius had already been killed by Balleroy in the ensuing battle, or by someone else, Madelyn would have likely died shortly after as well.

However, Madelyn knew that he was alive. So she would continue to train and get stronger in order for her to eventually be able to fight him in a duel.

The only problem was he was apparently a knight from Lugnica. And not only that, she had no knowledge of his face, his voice, or his abilities. The only thing she knew was his name.

Despite the hopeless nature of her goal, that did nothing to dissuade the young dragonkin as she snarled, showing off her sharp fangs as she gave another pain-filled roar.

She had already imagined just how she would kill him. She would first overwhelm him in battle, disarming him before disarming him again literally. She couldn't wait to see the look on his face as she dismembered him of his limbs, the pained look on his face that wouldn't even compare to how Madelyn currently looked.

She would then dig her claws into his chest before ripping out his heart, and crushing it right in front of him. And right as he was about to die, she would say to him that Balleroy had finally been avenged. Only then could Madelyn consider her life complete.

But first she had to find a way to face him. She couldn't just waltz into Lugnica, that'd be too dangerous. She'd likely get killed if she were to try that, and she wouldn't die until after she had avenged Balleroy.

So, another idea came to her mind. What if she was a Divine General? Then there was the possibility that she could eventually find a way to confront Julius, and then end him.

Yes. That would work perfectly.

Madelyn would become a Divine General. She would become strong. And she would avenge Balleroy.

After finishing her rampage, Madelyn still had near-bottomless rage residing within her. Clenching her fists, Madelyn decided that she would shout her conviction out loud for the whole world to hear.

Standing by the edge of the cliff, Madelyn looked up at the sky before closing her eyes shut. She then grit her teeth, before screaming with all her might:

"JULIUS JUUKULIUS! I, THE DRAGON, SWEAR THAT I WILL KILL YOU!"

Birds flew from their perches and small animals ran from their burrows at the loud declaration from the dragonkin girl. One could even claim that her shout was heard all throughout the world.

Breathing heavily, Madelyn looked down at the object she held in her palm.

The pink bow that Balleroy had given to her as a gift.

Although she didn't admit it to him then, Madelyn loved the gift as soon as Balleroy offered it to her. But her dragon pride wouldn't allow her to show such elatedness.

Now though, she had no qualms with wearing the fabric. She raised it up to her left dragon horn before tying it on. As she finished putting it on, she swore that it would never come off.

Not even once.

Balleroy Temeglyph was more than just a man. He was a brother, a comrade, a friend, and a legend.

One that would never be forgotten.