Monologue of Emilia
The Dread of Transformation.
Every day, since his arrival, I have been devoting myself entirely. It's astonishing to witness how his mere presence has managed to transmute everything and everyone around him.
Marco contemplates the world in a way that still eludes my understanding, which is why I aspire to follow him, to remain by his side, with the hope of one day attaining that synchrony with him.
Everything has changed at a dizzying pace, so swiftly that it proves challenging to keep up. I acknowledge my weaknesses and the fears that envelop me, but I've also exerted immense effort.
My world has transformed, and now I must adapt to the changing times.
Initially, comprehending his explanations was arduous, especially when it involved numbers, something that seems to flow in the air and I never quite comprehended entirely. However, his patience with me has been exceedingly gratifying. If I had been my own teacher, I likely would have given up long ago, but he didn't, and that has motivated me to continue striving.
Over time, every praise and every achievement have made me realize how wonderfully rewarding it is to acquire new skills and knowledge.
Even when demotivation threatens to engulf me, I always remember his words, "It's not about being good in everything that gives you value, but excelling in one thing and surpassing everyone in it." Those words drove me to delve deeper into the study of what he calls medicine, and thus, to use my gift to save more people.
The art of healing is perfected through knowledge: the speed of recovery, the efficiency in the use of vital energy, and the possibilities expand as you understand more about the human body.
While Puck selects the hairstyle I will wear, I gaze out the window, yearning for a day filled with warmth.
"You've changed, Lia," Puck affirms, gently caressing my hair.
"I know, it's just that I'm deeply afraid that my changes won't be pleasing to everyone," I say, looking out the window, appreciating the delicate rays of sunlight.
The mere thought of altering my being, of transforming for better or worse in search of an improved version of myself, evokes overwhelming fear in me.
"Remember Marco's words, Lia," Puck underscores with a melodious voice, "you live for yourself, and only the opinions of those you respect should influence your path."
His words compel me to close my eyes and delve into deep meditation. I have tirelessly strived to exceed expectations, to go beyond, yet despite all that, everyone continues to treat me like a child, even Puck.
He, in his great love, hides secrets behind his mysterious eyes, and I'm terrified of demanding answers that could shatter my fragile balance.
That's why, for me, Marco is irreplaceable. It's ironic that the one who constantly points out my mistakes is also the one who has unwavering faith in my potential.
"Yes, I know," I respond with a hint of determination in my voice, "that's why I must strive even harder."
I rise with a blend of grace and solemnity, inclining my head with elegance to adjust my attire, skillfully crafted by Rem's gifted hands.
In my heart, I harbor a profound sense of gratitude for her care and the uplifting words she has bestowed upon me. I smile warmly as I recall the inspiring conversation we shared.
With resolute steps, I push open the door to a world filled with expectations. They, my companions and mentors, eagerly await my presence.
Though my heart quivers with trepidation in the face of numerous uncertainties that lurk along my path, I must harness that restlessness as a driving force to progress and to forge myself into someone worthy of the respect of all who may doubt my worth.
The curtain rises, and it is my moment to shine.
Prologue
The Start of the War..
The Witch's Cult... I should have suspected it the moment that cursed one mentioned there were vital tidings in the capital. He departed yesterday, allegedly at the behest of the high authorities in the capital.
I cannot be certain whether it's true or not, but I should have taken action as soon as he left. None of this makes sense; the reason for the attack is that they know Emilia's location, her name, and her alliances.
The sole plausible explanation is that there has been a leak within the village.
"They've slaughtered everyone and are headed this way!" cries out that woman, her countenance reflecting anger and sorrow.
My mind descends into chaos; fear seizes every fiber of my being as I struggle to maintain composure. I clench my fists, seeking a solution to overcome this situation. In these circumstances, I cannot call for help, and if I perish, based on everything that has transpired, I will be returned to a moment near my death.
There's no time; I don't know when or where exactly they'll strike. If I wait for it to happen, there could be many casualties, and it would be irreversible. I must think carefully about everything, for myself.
Rem and Beatrice cast me a determined gaze, confirming that the girl harbors miasma within her, indicating a possible connection to the cult.
Beatrice and Rem are on alert, but their efforts prove futile against that individual's abilities. If I want any chance to confront her, I'll depend on my speed in firing.
A cultist will never rebel against their leader, so eliminating this individual is the most appropriate course. However, I have a strange feeling about this girl.
"Beatrice, inspect that girl," I command, gazing into her eyes.
Beatrice observes me with a hint of concern, likely sensing the fear within me. As her contractor, I can feel some of her emotions, and vice versa.
Due to the constraints of our contract, there are many things I cannot do, but Beatrice is more than just a card. I must devise a way to compensate for the limitations of the contract.
She turns around and strides toward the girl, who still attempts to resist. Beatrice teleports behind her, leaving her no chance to continue stammering. Without warning, she drains all of the girl's mana, causing an unbearable pressure within me.
It's scorching mana, akin to hell itself.
I feel my body burning as Beatrice absorbs it. Immediately, my magic gate begins to go haywire, so I release the excess mana, creating a gust of wind that sweeps everything in its path.
The sensation calms a bit, but everyone gazes at me in astonishment for what just transpired. Beatrice positions herself at my side and takes my hand, using her curative magic to stabilize my magic gate.
Emilia shakes her head, glares at me, and finally shouts:
"Why did you do that?" Emilia approaches me, her voice laden with anger and concern. "She seemed to be suffering."
My gaze shifts to Beatrice, who shakes her head, confirming that the girl harbors no ill intentions. It's understandable, considering that Emilia isn't aware that this girl possesses miasma, so I have no intention of revealing that detail.
"Beatrice can discern what kind of person someone is by absorbing their mana. If she detects anything unusual, it's the best way to confirm if they're an enemy or not," I argue, directing my gaze at Colonel Alsten. "Colonel Alsten, although we don't have a clear confirmation of this information, we'll implement Protocol T01 as a precaution against a potential attack.
To have a clear view of all possibilities, I've established security measures for different scenarios. If the soldiers know what to do, things are more likely to go well. These measures have been explained to both the townsfolk and the soldiers, and T01 is part of them.
As the first measure, I've designed it as a safeguard against potential attacks. We need speed, so, considering factors like order and negations, I've made these measures mandatory.
Those who don't comply will be heavily fined.
Protocol T01 for the soldiers dictates that they must maintain guard over the entire perimeter while a squad makes announcements and sets up flags around the town.
They are prohibited from returning to their homes until the alert is lifted, and they must also begin constructing trenches, a task assigned to earth magic specialists.
This situation is complicated because we lack walls for defense, leaving us vulnerable on all fronts. Therefore, trenches take on vital importance as they allow us to mobilize quickly.
As the number of people increases, we will adjust these measures, but for now, we are just over forty, and our options are limited.
As for the civilians, they are strictly instructed not to leave the town, and a nighttime curfew is imposed. Work is suspended on the first day the measure is implemented, and everyone must seek refuge in the academy.
Alsten understands immediately, with a disgruntled expression. He performs a military salute and exclaims:
"Yes, General!"
The military hierarchy isn't overly complex, given our small number. At present, we have ensigns, who are the students; then there are the soldiers, the captains, the colonel, and the general. As more people arrive, this structure will evolve, but for now, it serves as a starting point.
Alsten exits the room, prompting Rem to approach me, apparently with the intention of concealing information from Emilia.
However, I shake my head. It's time for Emilia to face things properly as well. Keeping information hidden will only lead her to attempt things on her own. I need her to grow as quickly as possible, and for that, every experience will be valuable.
"Tell her the truth; after all, she's the leader," I say, directing my gaze at Emilia, who seems surprised by the situation.
Rem nods, despite her obvious desire to eliminate the person on the sofa. She turns to Emilia and, with a slight incline, seems to apologize for excluding her. Emilia wears an expression of confusion, but Rem quickly rushes to explain:
"The reason General Marco acted this way is because this girl possesses the witch's miasma," Rem's bloodlust seeps through, causing mana to emanate from her.
I gently place my hand on Rem's shoulder, trying to convey calmness through the contact. Meanwhile, Emilia looks at the girl for a brief moment. Then, she seeks my confirmation, and I nod with determination, causing a slight quiver in her lips.
At this moment, Emilia needs to find her inner strength.
Kneeling on the ground, her gaze gets lost in her own hands. She still seems to be processing what happened in the village; even though she knows that the attack of the mabestias wasn't her fault, she now faces a different and painful situation.
I don't know if anyone will lose their life, but I do know that Emilia must find courage.
Because saving everyone is too heavy a burden for her.
Rem crouches, offering her support, but Emilia gently rejects it with a subtle gesture. In silence, I ponder Puck's absence during all this time. Beatrice, noticing my concern, firmly squeezes my hand, offering me her comforting smile.
In this challenging situation, I need her support more than ever.
Time has passed swiftly, but many people's lives are still in danger. Alsten is likely already in the town, which means we must act without delay.
Emilia must confront her fears and make a brave decision.
"Emilia, what should we do?" I look directly at her, maintaining an impassive expression.
There's no time for games. Nervousness consumes me as well, while Rem stoically endures the pressure. Emilia is the least experienced among us, but sadly, she can't afford to enjoy a typical adolescence.
Emilia raises her face, on the verge of tears, but as her gaze meets mine, she understands that now is not the time for pity.
Emilia is acutely aware that this is not the right time. She closes her eyes and takes a deep and troubled breath, striving to find her calm. Although she carries a partial burden of guilt, she knows she should not be judged solely for that.
"What should we do?" I insist, seeking to reason with Emilia.
With determination, Emilia rises and looks directly into my eyes, attempting to muster strength. She declares with a resolute voice:
"Puck says it's likely the girl is telling the truth, so we must prioritize the safety of the village and proceed with the evacuation," she orders, making her stance clear.
I smile appreciatively at her response. At this moment, the most important thing is to ensure people's safety. However, the problem lies in my inability to indefinitely halt production.
There are contracts to fulfill and commitments to uphold.
I direct my gaze toward the girl on the sofa, observing her battered body and bloodied feet, signs that she has traveled a long distance from the village to here.
"Rem, the nearest village is half a day's journey by carriage, correct?" I inquire while keeping my eyes on the girl.
Rem's response comes promptly.
"Yes, but there's something that intrigues me," Rem replies before approaching the girl.
Rem removes the girl's torn and blood-stained shirt, revealing her bruised skin. Beatrice, on her part, has healed her contusions to wake her up but hasn't completely cured her body. After all, it's important to understand what happened.
Small bruises and minor injuries mar her body, as if the wounds were the result of falls rather than the blades used in the massacre. This suggests that the girl managed to escape from the village almost unscathed, and that blood isn't hers.
Rem interrupts my train of thought, stating:
"If there's one thing I know, it's that the Witch's Cult doesn't leave loose ends, and if they do, it doesn't bode well for them," Rem begins to heal the girl's wounds, relieving her pain. "For a human to have escaped the cult is even more astonishing."
Rem's revelation unsettles all of us. If someone from a remote village has managed to survive the cult, especially the hordes that Petelgeuse typically summons for his attacks, then we should reconsider the fear we hold.
This implies that the girl before us is concealing something of great importance.
Beatrice intervenes, emphasizing the peculiarity of the girl's blood. She mentions an unusual density in her mana, something that even someone as knowledgeable in magic as Beatrice finds remarkable.
I could feel the power and warmth of her mana, an experience that nearly overwhelmed me. Furthermore, I noticed how the miasma inside me was affected, diminishing its intensity.
"This mana within her is expelling the miasma, I suppose. It is something I have never witnessed before in fact," Beatrice adds with astonishment.
I endeavor to comprehend the situation and explore the possibilities, but no clear answers present themselves. Beatrice shakes her head, signifying that this transcends the capabilities of a mere human, and that the mana density isn't confined to powerful beings alone.
"Perhaps only exceedingly potent creatures could achieve it... that's it, I suppose," Beatrice seems to have had an epiphany, but she swiftly dismisses it by shaking her head.
"In any case, it's evident that the girl was destined to be used by the cult, but lacking miasma, Petelgeuse couldn't control her," I conclude as maids bring clean garments for the girl.
Meanwhile, my gaze fixes on the window, and I feel a disquieting flutter in my chest. A strong sense of anxiety envelops me, as if I know that something crucial eludes me. Suddenly, an idea takes shape in my mind, and I swiftly turn, realizing that Rem has also arrived at the same conclusion.
"It's impossible to survive the mabestias in the forest. If she is here, then someone brought her to us," Rem exclaims.
At that precise moment, something in the distance captures my attention...
BOOM!