The First Victory
Amidst the chaos and destruction, my determination remains unwavering. The bullet surges forth with ferocity, cutting through the air on its lethal trajectory, finding its mark in Petelgeuse's face, severing his head with chilling efficiency.
An explosive roar shatters his body into debris, and a voracious darkness engulfs what remains of his existence.
The confirmation of his defeat lies in the dark vortex that forms, a swirling maelstrom of shadows that threatens to consume me as well. But I don't falter. My gaze stays resolute, fixed on the horrifying spectacle before me.
If Beatrice's ancient knowledge of magic is correct, if her wisdom holds true, Petelgeuse's soul has been entirely obliterated.
"The victory is ours," I think, and I can't help but feel a mix of triumph and relief.
With cautious yet resolute steps, I descend from the air and approach the fallen archbishop's shattered form. I scan the scattered remains, and there, amidst the grotesque pieces of his form, I find the object I've longed for.
A portable, delicate, and enigmatic mirror that will become my new link to communication, my portal to other worlds and unexpected alliances.
I turn my head, seeking Emilia's eyes, eager to share this moment of victory and liberation with her. But before I can utter a word, I'm struck with unexpected force.
The impact throws me off balance and onto the ground, drowning me in surprise and confusion. Uncertainty grips me as I open my eyes to identify my assailant.
It is Emilia.
Her amethyst eyes, filled with tears and despair, reflect profound and visceral hatred. Her normally radiant face has transformed into a mask of pain and resentment. She stares at me, unblinking, and a choked scream escapes her lips.
"You killed him!" Her voice resonates with a broken and agonized tone. "You killed Father Guise!"
I try to reach out to her, to calm her, to make her understand that there was no other choice. But her anger is uncontrollable, and her fist crashes into the ground with fury, creating a crater in its wake.
I instinctively close my eyes, bracing for the impending blow I undoubtedly deserve.
But the blow never comes.
I open my eyes slowly, bewildered by the sudden pause in the air. There she stands, Emilia, with her fist suspended in the air. Her tears continue to flow, but her expression of hatred has given way to a whirlwind of conflicting emotions.
Oppressive silence envelops our surroundings, laden with unresolved tensions, as we face the imminent consequences of our actions and an uncertain future that unfolds before us like an unexpected abyss.
Emilia lies unconscious upon my chest, her countenance reflecting profound and heart-wrenching suffering. I endeavor to rouse her, in vain, yearning for her return to consciousness.
With gentleness, I lay her form upon the ground, while my mind plunges into a whirlwind of thoughts, grappling for answers and comprehension.
My fingers alight upon her neck, tracing down her silken skin until they encounter the strands of her necklace. With latent trepidation, I begin to pull gently, feeling each millimeter of movement quicken my heartbeat, agitated by uncertainty and the desire to find a resolution.
Everything seemed to be going well. Emilia had started to believe in herself, growing stronger, mature, and brimming with energy. She had earned the respect she deserved.
I thought we would be together, that we wouldn't have to submit to these trials, that we could chart a different path, but now...
My gaze fixes upon the pyroxene crystal that Emilia usually carries with such love and pride. I observe how, slowly and painfully, it shatters in my hands, fragmenting into tiny pieces that fall to the ground.
As I hold these shattered remnants, I raise my eyes to the sky, seeking answers that seem to elude me amid the shadows.
"Was it necessary?" I inquire, my voice barely a whisper laden with pain and yearning. "Please, answer... Puck."
The echo of my words dissipates into the vastness of silence, leaving me immersed in an abyss of uncertainty and a sadness that threatens to consume me entirely. Fate and its designs appear to play whimsically with our lives, leaving us at the mercy of superior and unknown forces.
In the midst of this chaos, a desperate quest for answers and the need to find a glimmer of hope to illuminate the dark path stretching before us.
I discern a lugubrious silence as I tread through the forest, following the grim trail we've left in our wake. A sinister whirlwind of corpses sprawls around us, devoured by insatiable beasts.
Fortunately, the crystals we carry act as a protective shield, keeping these ravenous creatures at bay. Yet, their utility extends to the task of removing lifeless bodies.
The cleanup squad will face an arduous task, for they not only fought valiantly but must now confront the ungrateful duty of erasing any trace of this bloody encounter.
In my hands, I hold the book of prophecies I wrested from Petelgeuse's clutches, along with his head, a grotesque testament to our confrontation. Somehow, I know these disquieting relics will prove useful.
If we fail to make them believe our claim of having vanquished the Archbishop of Sloth, I may be compelled to rely on Crusch and Reinhard's ability to discern the truth.
Who knows if they'll be willing to assist, especially Crusch, but that remains in the hands of time.
In my embrace, Emilia rests, still immersed in a deep slumber following the sudden impact of her recovered memories.
I cannot judge her for it.
She has endured the worst imaginable circumstances, trapped in a foreign body, stripped of her memories, rebuilding her life and trust, only to be abruptly abandoned by someone she loved, while painful and regretful memories resurface in her mind.
Fate cruelly looms over her, and it pains me to witness her suffering. I observe her weak breath, a constant reminder of how fragile human existence can be.
A bitter feeling engulfs me as I contemplate the cruelty with which destiny treats us. The battle in which we find ourselves is no cause for celebration.
I am uncertain of the exact number of soldiers who perished in this confrontation, but I am certain that the battle is far from easily concluded. They faced a formidable entity. I could not accurately count Petelgeuse's limbs, but I can attest that he unleashed his full might in the combat.
The future unfolds before us as a dark abyss, full of uncertainty and unfathomable challenges.
Our courage and determination will be tested once more as we face the consequences of our actions and prepare for the next chapter of this dark odyssey.
When I witnessed Puck defending against the assault with all his appendages, I grasped the vastness of his power. Counting the number of limbs was an impossible task, but their density and strength were overwhelming.
I cannot help but wonder if I am now the bearer of the Sloth Factor.
We have managed to eliminate all the Fingers, leading me to surmise that the Factor now resides within me. However, I am uncertain if by eliminating Petelgeuse's soul, the Sloth Factor is also eradicated.
Beatrice's Shamack magic is too intricate for me, so I will have to seek answers from her.
I quicken my pace as I realize we are near our destination, but I pause upon hearing Emilia's moans.
She opens her eyes and surveys her surroundings, placing her hand on my chest. Although she does not look directly at me, I can sense her thoughts.
At this moment, Emilia is caught in the worst of possible situations. After achieving so much, she has lost everything in an instant, including the person who has been by her side all this time.
Emilia bites her lip, struggling to hold back tears. I remain silent, merely awaiting her decision. She closes her eyes and takes a deep sigh.
Then, she graces me with a smile and speaks to me in a cheerful tone.
"Thank you for bringing me. I'm fine now," Emilia says as she releases herself from my embrace and turns away. I watch her in silence, her hands held in contemplation as she moves forward.
I yearn to detain her, but I understand it's not the opportune moment. Helplessness grips me, and I clench my fists tightly.
With composure, I reply, "You're welcome; it was no trouble. It was a challenging battle, but without you, it would have been impossible."
My gaze rests upon her back as I ponder whether what I've instilled in her is right.
Undeniably, Emilia has undergone a transformation. Everything that she had evolved during this time, undoubtedly for the better. However, I question if it's right. I've imposed my own ideals on her without affording her the chance to refuse.
The Emilia I have now is undeniably stronger, but I wonder if it's what she truly desires.
Nevertheless, Emilia remains resolute, attempting to bear the burden she carries within. I retrieve the fragments of the shattered crystal from my pocket, the one that broke when I touched it. I still don't understand why Puck broke his contract, but I must move forward.
The considerable number of cultists suggests they've expended the majority of their forces. With so many people, they could decimate the capital, or at least launch a large-scale attack. It's incredible that they targeted us.
Actions are continuously evolving.
The mere existence of the Factor of Pride makes me realize that everything has been awry since my arrival. The novel is just a novel, and reality is, indeed, reality. So, I'm not truly in a story.
I clench my fists as I observe the plain we've created. My eyes widen at the sight. Dozens, no, an inhuman number of corpses lie on the ground. It's evident that the cultists were arrogant, attacking head-on without any strategy, which led to their defeat.
But such a massive loss of life is astounding. They must have exhausted their ammunition; I'm certain they even used their reserves. If they survived, it's enough. We will invest in building more factories.
The cultists have had a bounty on their heads for a long time. I can't recall the exact amount, but I'll distribute it among all my soldiers. It will be entirely for them, especially for those who lost their lives.
Emilia, too, gazes in astonishment. Hundreds of corpses and debris are strewn about. The earthworks indicate that the cultists had considered more than just fleeing. Before us, where the trenches are, we see the thorn pillars, mines stored for future use.
It was a gruesome battle, and the stench is truly repugnant. The fallen trees in the field bear testament that they were indeed here, but the distant sound we hear is reassuring.
"Are they celebrating?" Emilia inquires as she navigates through the corpses.
"Hurry, we shall offer the final words," I respond as I begin to ascend.
I have gained a deeper understanding of gravitational magic, but I still struggle to employ it for prolonged periods. Manipulating gravity, whether reducing or increasing it, leads to internal issues, such as fluctuations in blood pressure.
I cannot wield this magic for extended durations without facing long-term repercussions.
Amidst the tension and anticipation, my actions assume paramount importance. Despite my exhaustion from the arduous combat, I know I must stand resolute and instill confidence in those who look to me for leadership.
With determination, I extend my hand towards Emilia, and she takes it without hesitation. Now that I am closer to Beatrice, my magical abilities are enhanced, allowing me to carry her effortlessly. We speed towards the village, where the final results of the battle are beginning to manifest.
As we draw near, I can discern several craters that mar the trenches, along with a shattered cannon. The corpses of the cultists lie scattered, revealing the degree of violence we confronted.
While they managed to advance this far, our meticulously crafted defenses played a pivotal role in our ability to resist.
My initial actions lead me directly to the academy, where I observe people evacuating it. Next to the academy lies the area designated for the wounded, which appears to be overwhelmed.
The number of casualties surpasses the capacity we can provide care for.
"Set me down," Emilia orders, her eyes capturing the magnitude of the situation. Without hesitation, I comply, and she rushes to tend to the wounded, silently assessing each one.
To my left, I see the injured individuals, but to my right, I also spot eight shrouded bodies.
"Eight victims, huh?" I ponder the number. Though it may seem relatively low, I cannot help but feel a profound desolation. These eight individuals were united, and their loss represents a devastating blow to our endeavors.
Just as I am about to begin organizing and counting, a military salute interrupts my attention.
"General Marco!" Lucas exclaims, holding a notebook in his hands.
"Captain Lucas," I respond with gravity, acknowledging his loyalty and diligence. "We will have time for a detailed conversation later. For now, I must announce and explain the situation to everyone."
With unwavering determination, I ascend to the rooftop of the academy. All eyes are fixed upon me, and I can discern the spectrum of emotions within the crowd. Some are angry, others mournful, but the vast majority displays palpable fear.
I understand that the words I deliver in this critical moment will shape the course we, as a community, take. I cannot ignore the fact that public opinion points its finger at Emilia, holding her accountable for what has transpired.
Though this accusation lacks foundation, it is my duty to confront this unfounded belief and challenge it with the truth.
With a resolute tone and unwavering confidence, I commence my address. "Dear inhabitants of Irlam, I comprehend your concerns and your anger. That is why I am here to offer an explanation about the events that have unfolded."
I gesture towards the field of wounded, guarded by soldiers to prevent access. "Our town has been the target of a massive assault by those who constitute the Witch's cult."
As I utter these words, a wave of reactions ensues. Gazes intermingle; some nod in acknowledgment, while others direct looks filled with fury. They are aware that I prohibited them from mentioning the cult, and it is my duty to alleviate their anger and dispel any doubt or confusion that I may have caused.
"In these moments of deep sorrow and consternation, I feel the anger and pain that we all experience after the recent attack that has shaken us. Allow me to remind you that now, more than ever, it is imperative that we maintain our unity as a community."
I raise my voice, attempting to infuse a sense of urgency. "I fully understand that some seek answers, and unfortunately, there are those who have directed their anger toward a person who, in reality, had no knowledge of what would transpire. "
It is time to appeal to their emotions.
Emilia has been earning everyone's affection with her tireless assistance. She, more than anyone, has sought acceptance and demonstrated that her intentions are always to aid.
"She has watched over each one of you, invested her essence in this town, and aspires to keep improving. I understand your fears, I comprehend your hatred and your anger. It is essential that we pause and reflect on our principles and values as a community. We all deserve to be treated justly and equitably, regardless of our religion, race, or any other distinguishing characteristic."
However, I resort to deceit, attempting to divert attention.
Now, their indignation centers on Emilia's mere existence, and it's possible that some soldiers share this sentiment. I must make them feel their hatred and redirect it toward other emotions.
If I allow their anger to focus on Emilia, many of them might abandon the town, which would be a devastating blow to our progress.
"The cult's attacks are matters we have been meticulously investigating. Although we do not have a clear understanding of their motivations, in a nearby village, a ruthless bloodbath occurred, leaving only one survivor."
I extend my arms, gesturing to the entire town. "If we had not taken the measures we did, our fate would have been much darker. The cult's adherents have carried out massacres without apparent justification."
They are utterly unhinged, their actions devoid of all logic. That's why they have carried out assaults at various points.
I place my hand upon my chest, seeking to convey sincerity and responsibility.
"I will wholeheartedly assume responsibility for today's events. I will take care of all the needs that arise. As the mayor of this town, it falls upon me to defend and protect you."
"Instead of blaming an innocent individual, we must come together and fight against intolerance and hatred collectively. Let us educate one another, learn about our differences, and find common ground. Mutual understanding and respect are the most powerful tools to overcome this trying time."
Now, I delve into their hearts, leading them to understand that it was not an easy prey. I must show them the harsh truth of the actions before imposing any force upon them.
"With merely forty soldiers, we were able to fend off hundreds of fervent cult followers. I'm sure all of you heard the gunshots, which symbolize the arduous battle fought by all the people who protected you."
I gaze at them all with solemnity as I speak in a calm tone. "However, this also means that there were casualties, even fatalities."
People exhibit surprise, and fear begins to creep into their faces as news of the victims hasn't surfaced. The words I utter now must carry enough weight to penetrate deep into their hearts.
"Nevertheless, unlike before, these individuals gave their lives to protect each one of you. I cannot bring back those who have departed, and I understand that anger may begin to fester in your hearts."
I place my hand on my chest and, with a more resolute tone, continue, "However, that is not what those who sacrificed their lives want for you. Enlisting in the army was a noble decision, filled with valor and determination. They were aware of the risks they faced, yet their choice was to protect each and every one of you."
People lower their heads, perhaps still blaming Emilia, but that is not the issue at this moment. At this instant, it is undeniable that their own people protected them. They know that, if not for this courageous act, they would have been massacred.
"Lift your heads!" I exclaim with force. "Their noble sacrifice was not in vain; the affected families will be compensated. A life is priceless, but the sacrifice they made must be acknowledged, even if minimally. The affected families will receive priority in terms of food and sustenance for five years. We will also ensure that they face no difficulties, and I will personally see to it that any challenges they encounter are resolved."
Everyone raises their heads; at this moment, they all exhibit seriousness. The children remain silent, while the parents seem to be experiencing a tumultuous mix of emotions within.
"Remember that unity and solidarity are our greatest strengths." I look at them all and begin to appreciate everything we have built. "It is thanks to our unity, thanks to each of you having poured your sweat into this town that we are still alive. Let us expel the hatred from our hearts and work together to heal our wounds. Only in this way can we build a better and safer future for all of us."
I clench my fists, revealing the truth to everyone.
"Now, I beseech you to shield the eyes of the children, leaving none behind."
People almost instantly comply, covering the children's eyes as they attempt to resist.
"While the army fought with all its might to contain the enemy, Miss Emilia and I ventured into the forest with the purpose of putting an end to it all. Both of us delved deep into the woods to eradicate the foe. Now, after battling relentlessly for nearly an hour, she, exhausted from the depletion of her mana, tends to the wounded," I proclaim with fervor. "It has not been in vain!"
I extract Petelgeuse's severed head from a bag, hold it aloft, and display it to all. This will be painful for Emilia, but I have no other choice.
"We were able to vanquish a Sin Archbishop! We, mere humans who were recently massacred by the onslaught of beasts, have managed to defend ourselves," I declare. I gesture to the army, who remain resolute despite the surprising turn of events.
People are left astonished, as they likely thought we had merely managed to hold out until they withdrew. They all gaze at me in amazement; some smile while others maintain serious expressions.
"We are no longer weak! I understand your doubts; I comprehend your fears. But I promise you that only by moving forward can we confront them. Those cultists will think twice before attacking us again," I say. I stow Petelgeuse's head and place my weapon in front of me. I unleash my mana, gently pressuring them to feel my determination. I must show them that, despite everything, they are strong, that each of them matters, and that we must press on.
"Today is the day when Irlam's army defeated the Sin Archbishop, Petelgeuse Romanee-Conte!" I declare, looking at them all with a smile. I continue, "Now we must continue to improve, for better lives require sacrifice, require effort, and to protect ourselves, we must move forward."
Then, I raise my voice.
"All of this is impossible without your help! While the army protects you, you are the heart of all this. Be proud of what you have achieved. We will surpass even the capital, rise, and grow for better lives."
With my words, I ignite greed in the people. The fear they experience is the result of an achievement that no one had in mind; simply defeating a Sin Archbishop is a milestone that will be etched into our history. We transitioned from being slaughtered by beasts to achieving the unthinkable.
"We are all important! So, let us cast aside that hatred in our hearts and honor those who gave their lives. We must press on for their sake; now is when we must be more united than ever," I declare as I descend from the rooftop, approaching everyone. "Only by staying united can we move forward. I promise to do everything in my power to protect you, to provide you with the lives you deserve, and to lead you forward."
I bow before them as a sign of respect.
"Miss Emilia brought me here; she has been the most concerned for everyone's well-being. Initially, we traversed through trying times," I rise, displaying my determination. "But now I see in each of you a longing for more. I promise you that we shall be great, that in the future, we shall be stronger. But to achieve this, we must stand united," I extend my arm, showing my clenched fist. "For Irlam!"
People gaze at me with some doubt; they all seem to comprehend my words. However, fear still lingers within them. Not long ago, they were nothing more than people with aspirations limited to survival. The only way to attain a better life was to risk it all in the capital.
Now, they have a fresh opportunity, a chance to progress, to fulfill their dreams, and attain the life they desire.
Gradually, everyone begins to raise their fists, not in anger, but with determination for what they are willing to do. They all start shouting with strength, and I attempt to quell their fear.
"Long live Irlam!" they all declare with resolve.
Immediately, the army sets in motion. Everyone is asked to return to their homes for the day. An officer will visit the affected families to inform them of what transpired, so it's best that they remain sheltered in their homes.
People obey and make their way to their homes, while the cleaning squad commences their work.
The cleaning squad consists of both non-combatants and combatants. Cleaning the village's surroundings is now the top priority, making their work crucial.
The corpses will be cremated once everyone is gathered. Additionally, they are tasked with collecting spent casings and handling the casualties properly, recycling as much as possible to reduce costs.
I head towards the injured camp, seeking to gather all the necessary information. There, I spot Alsten, bandaged and shirtless, engaging in a conversation with Lucas. As I approach, several soldiers salute me with a military gesture.
The gazes of the few soldiers still on their feet oscillate between joy and fatigue. They all bear bloodstains and dirt on their uniforms, but they stand resolute. Beatrice is busy tending to someone, while Emilia and Rem continue their tireless efforts.
"General Marco!" Alsten greets me with a military salute and a smile on his face. "Great words addressed to the people."
"Colonel Alsten, I see that the battle was no easy feat, but I'm glad to see you're well," I smile as he begins to recount the events.
Twenty-six injured and eight dead, those are the total figures. Only one person lost a limb, which is a positive aspect to hear. The battle was arduous on our front, but I'm relieved they achieved something significant.
Alsten has gathered another communicator, so we now have five of them. We will seize this opportunity to study their functioning, and I trust we can recreate them in some way. While Alsten finishes giving me details, Emilia approaches me.
I observe her with a wearied countenance, noting her languid gait, as if on the verge of collapse. Yet, there is naught I can do to alleviate her burden.
She positions herself before me and utters these words:
"I am headed to the mansion; I shall return shortly," Emilia says, adding nothing more, she bestows a nod upon the others and departs.
An impulse urges me to trail her, a task that must be undertaken. Nonetheless, there is a multitude of thoughts crowding my mind at this moment.
I instruct Alsten to notify the families of the deceased so that they may come to pay their respects. However, I specify that only the adults are to attend. I also charge him with the preparations for tomorrow's funerary rites.
Alsten assents and withdraws, while I ponder the steps that lie ahead. The elections are but three days away, a clear indication that we may once again find ourselves on the battlefield. Although, in the case of Crusch, I could let her meet her fate; she is, after all, my rival.
I gaze upon the heavens as a small hand takes hold of mine. I had nearly forgotten Beatrice's presence. I stoop down, meeting her gaze while gently caressing her head.
In her eyes, I discern concern and sadness, and I presume I understand the reason.
"So you've dealt with Sloth, I suppose," Beatrice whispers, her hand resting on my chest. "Does that mean you possess the witch's factor, in fact?"
I resolutely shake my head, unable to affirm whether I hold the mysterious witch's factor.
In that moment, all I can do is wait and trust that Beatrice can uncover the truth. Nevertheless, the uncertainty and the potential danger surrounding this enigma deeply unsettle me.
Beatrice closes her eyes, her hand glowing with a brilliant energy. A grave expression forms on her face as if she has discovered something of great significance.
"You do have it, indeed," Beatrice states, her hands on my cheeks as she examines me with concern. "We need to have an in-depth discussion about this, I suppose, but I must warn you that it is potentially dangerous, indeed. Betty is unaware of the reasons for your possession, but we should approach this matter with caution, I suppose."
A smile creeps onto my lips as my memory conjures the image of someone forgotten all this time.
It's someone who played a crucial role in the protagonist's life, their most loyal friend. I direct my gaze toward the imposing ice pillar, lamenting how late I remembered him in the course of these events.
"Beatrice!" I exclaim, taking her hand and channeling the power of Murak to lift us into the air. We quickly fly in the direction of the dungeon where I previously battled Petelgeuse. In a matter of minutes, we cover the distance that had been arduous and exhausting before.
Upon arriving at the location, I enter the sinister dungeon without delay, resolute in my purpose.
Throughout the journey, Beatrice remains silent, lost in her own thoughts. As we progress, the darkness becomes denser, but thanks to my magical abilities, I conjure a flame that lights our path.
My eyes fix upon the ground, where traces of blood are still discernible. I quicken my pace, filled with concern for what may await us in the depths. The only sound I perceive is the echo of our footsteps resonating in the chilly cavern, further heightening my disquiet.
Finally, we reach the dungeon's depths, but visibility is limited. I approach with caution, and thanks to the light from our makeshift fire, I begin to explore the surroundings.
I scrutinize every nook, hoping to find some sign of that person I have recalled belatedly, but thus far, every trace seems to evaporate into the shadows.
My eyes catch sight of chains at the cave's bottom. Without a second thought, I rush toward them to discover what has occurred. And there he is, seated, of average stature, with disheveled chestnut hair. He appears unconscious, as if veiled in a shroud of dreams.
My attention is drawn to his hands, and I notice that his left wrist is oozing tiny droplets of blood, while a rock exerts pressure on his arm.
"His hand has been severed," I murmur, clenching my fists tightly, a blend of anger and consternation seizing me. "Beatrice, please, look after him," I instruct her, approaching to examine him for any other injuries he may have sustained.
Beside him lies a bloodied knife, leading me to question whether he inflicted this wound upon himself in an attempt to escape or if another was responsible. I conduct a thorough inspection for other wounds but find none.
Beatrice manages to staunch the bleeding and informs me that it will take time for him to awaken.
Just inches away, his severed hand lies. I direct my gaze toward Beatrice, who shakes her head in response to my unspoken query.
"Too much time has passed, and it has become soiled in fact. It would be extremely perilous to attempt reattachment now I suppose," explains Beatrice, turning her back on the unfortunate extremity.
Handling Otto with care, I depart, resigned to the reality that there is nothing more I can do.
It is time to return to the village, as I still have pending matters to conclude before meeting with Emilia. I cannot leave her alone in these moments when she needs support the most, but I must also fulfill my duty.
I arrive in the village and lay Otto down. Rem seems exhausted, yet she remains to ensure that everything is properly organized in relation to the wounded. I approach her, but my attention is interrupted by Lucas, who appears to have something important to convey.
"General Marco," Lucas greets with a military salute, to which I respond with a corresponding salute. He begins to speak. "The cleanup crew found another communication device. I've come to deliver it."
I accept the device with gratitude, reflecting on how challenging it must be for the soldiers to carry out these tasks. I thank Lucas and prepare to seek out Rem, but to my surprise, she is no longer in the vicinity. Perhaps it is best to head directly to Emilia's side.
In a matter of seconds, thanks to my enhanced mastery of spiritual magic, I find myself at the mansion.
Such abilities grant me advantages in mobility. If only the protagonist had exercised more caution in using his gate, Beatrice could have harnessed her magic to control it.
"You have mastered Murak admirably, in fact, " Beatrice comments, her surprise evident as she fixes me with an astounded gaze.
"You've been an excellent teacher," I reply as we ascend towards Emilia's room. "During the battle, I managed to gain a certain level of control over it, although I can't yet wield it for extended periods due to the substantial mana consumption it demands, not to mention the internal strain."
"Humph! It's because you wish to view magic as something intrinsic to your world, I suppose," Beatrice retorts, pouting and releasing my hand. "I'll be in the library, indeed. That girl needs you; I suppose."
A radiant smile graces my lips as I turn my eyes toward Beatrice, who strides resolutely toward the door. Yet, at that very moment, I seize the momentum and envelop her in a passionate embrace from behind.
Surprise dances in her eyes, and in a matter of seconds, she yields to the hug, her delicate hands gently alighting on my arms.
"I thought you'd forgotten, indeed," Beatrice whispers, her voice heavy with emotion.
"I could never forget you. I've always been the one to embrace you like this, but I was hoping you'd take the first step," I reply, letting my words vibrate with a mixture of nostalgia and desire.
In the midst of a captivating silence, Beatrice vanishes in a fleeting flash, leaving a letter in her wake.
I smile knowingly, realizing I've managed to embarrass her. I'm well aware of her reserved and evasive nature when it comes to showing affection, but in crucial moments like this, her heart surrenders, revealing the vulnerability she holds deep within.
Memories of my past life flood my mind, reminding me of her warm, comforting embrace that slowly faded from my arms, as well as her meaningful parting words.
This recollection propels me to strengthen myself, to train tirelessly to attain the power that emanates from the denizens of this magical realm.
I am conscious that no one but myself holds the power to fulfill my determined purpose. Thus, I must nurture my inner strength and fuel my determination until they become indomitable flames.