3rd Pov
Having regained the headquarters, Dawn gently settled Testarossa down on one of the sofas...she would wake up in a few minutes.
So there was nothing to worry, and she was a primordial demon...there was no way the simple aura of another primordial and a true dragon would kill her.
Dawn : Anyway, don't you have some work to do ?
Turning to Rimuru who had followed suit, his sly grin still shook his head and raised his arm in a bored motion.
Rimuru : Everything is ready, Milim brought four dragons she had caught, the Labyrinth just needed more sub bosses, but the main ones are here.
Dawn : I see...
Rimuru : I also named the nine head fox as you advised, she is currently in her evolutionary sleep, her name is Kumara.
Dawn : Not a bad name.
Rimuru : By the way, where is Kyuri ?
Dawn : Well she was with me earlier...(Wait, when did she leave ? I think when Velgrynd splitted the table, Kyuri jumped out of the way...well she should be fine.)
Kyuri was definitely having bad blood toward Guy and Rudra, she even admitted that she wanted to smack their heads if possible.
But it seems she decided to not meddle in their fight and just left...
Dawn : (I guess her lazy part took over, she could have at least told me...)
Sighing, Dawn then recalled that Ruberios's carriage would soon arrive...but while flying, he also noticed that the lightning hero Masayuki's party was at the town, entrance.
Dawn : I'll go first, Velzard and the others are arriving soon.
Rimuru : Oh sure, well if you need anything call Shuna or Testa once she wakes up.
Dawn : Yeah thanks.
Waving his hand, Dawn walks off not wanting to stay in that room for too long...just in case anyone suddenly barges in and makes some assumption.
He slowly went to the west entrance of Tempest and waited patiently...watching the inhabitant and traveler walk pass by.
Despite being the first time Tempest made a public festival inviting and welcoming many unknown people from the outside.
The guards and police did a perfect job at handling the trouble and those who tried to start a fight.
Dawn : Luckily, my appearance is different too...
If he still had dark hair, recognizing him would be a matter of time...this would then get troublesome.
Dawn : Oh your back...
In the corner of his eyes, he saw a little fox coming closer before nudging its head on his leg...clearly asking Dawn to carry her.
Dawn did just like she asked, taking her in his arms before slowly petting her fur.
Dawn : Where did you go ?
Kyuri : I smelt some unknown food and went to steal some.
Dawn : Seriously...don't steal next time, just ask me i'll buy it for you.
Kyuri : I know you will, but you were busy fighting that hobo demon and cheap excuse of a hero.
Sighing Dawn just continued to pet her while waiting, after a short while the sound of guards shouting and light panic raised.
Since Ruberios was one of the biggest allies of Tempest, it was natural for them to have a much grander appearance.
Dawn : I'll take over if you're okay with this.
Approaching the guards, they soon recognized Dawn and agreed...since it was well known that he was Rimuru's friend.
On top of that, he had stayed for more than a week in Tempest, joining the military training, or sparring with Hakuro...most of the military team knew him by now.
Guard : Then, we'll escort them to the side !
Raising his hand to his head, he made a salute pose before instructing the other guards to move.
Settling the carriage on the side, they didn't need to pass the examination check or anything...a total of 32 carriages.
It was a lot and this was just a few important people...some of the greats were left to Ruberios for safety measures.
Though most of Ruberios military force was here...and such a reckless decision was made simply because Dawn allowed it.
He could travel back to Ruberios in an instant, so he decided that a big break could be given this time.
The first coming out of the carriage was Flora followed by Yuu and Eleonor, both of them went to organize and explain the situation.
Since some of the guests aren't accustomed with Tempest law, assigning them some guide and all.
Dawn decided to let them do their job and went to the most decorated carriage...opening the door himself, he made way for two of the most important guests.
Dawn : It has been a while, Lady Luminous.
Bowing slightly while raising his voice, he made sure the few praying eyes around being just a few curious tourists or journalists would hear.
Lady Luminous, it was now public that god Luminous made an appearance at several occasions in the last few months.
This was subject of many gossip and her presence here in Tempest will undoubtedly create chaos...a good chaos for Tempest's future politic arrangement but also Ruberios's interest.
Luminous : It's just a few weeks, how have you been ?
Coming out, instead of her gothic-like dress...she wore a white dress adorned with gold, a set of clothes much more divine.
Her silver hair exposed slightly while her face was covered by a transparent veil that reflected the incoming light.
No one could see her face, her figure would appear blurry to everyone and her voice was enhanced in a dramatic way.
The perfect attire to create a myth...Dawn smiled and offered his hand to help her go down which she accepted.
The sun briefly flashes on her veil, blinding the curious eyes.
Luminous : I heard you got into an interesting fight, how was it ?
Turning her head backward a bit, Velzard was in the same carriage, it seems she didn't wait to leak Dawn's confrontation with Guy and Rudra earlier.
Dawn : Just two troublemakers.
Smiling while shrugging off that matter, Dawn then helped Velzard come out before.
Dawn : We should first greet Rimuru and show a positive public image first...
Luminous : This is really troublesome...I would rather have Louis do this kind of thing...
Dawn : Luminism despite standing tall still suffered some loss, Louis isn't capable of using holy magic...we need my lady to further increase the public opinion.
Luminous let out an annoyed grown, she wanted to enjoy this festival but if she had to keep up the goddess persona.
It will turn boring and annoying very soon.
Velzard : Just bear with it, you can always say that you wanted to rest and put on a disguise.
Luminous : Yeah right...
While watching them talk, Dawn felt a sincere smile crept up his face...a smile that quickly vanished as he put back a neutral expression.
Dawn : (Velzard and Luminous...both of them would have never met and talked like that normally, I'm glad they get along.)
Closing his eyes, he turned around and went on to check the other, it seemed by the time he finished his discussion with Luminous that Hinata joined in helping organize everything.
Dawn : Is everything alright ?
Flora : Leader ! Ah, yes...just i feel like some of the nobles we took are a bit...extreme ?
Dawn : Mmh ? Didn't I ask Eleonor to select only the trustworthy nobles of Ruberios ?
Flora : Yes but...it seems, some of them thought that Tempest wasn't worth their time and sent their children...
Looking around, Dawn narrowed his eyes when out of all the prestigious noble family he had himself kept...eliminating the filth as time passed.
Ruberios's nobility was among the best in many ways...yet they dared put up such a shameful stunt ?
Dawn : Tch, I left them alone for just a century and that happened ? When we get back, send them all a letter announcing my arrival.
Flora : As your wish.
Bowing awkwardly, Flora knew more than anyone what was going to happen...this family will lose much more than just a few days.
Hinata : Flora-san, I finished with my group, we should leave for the hotel now...
Flora : Very well, I guess Yuu-san will be able to manage the rest on her own...take your group and follow mine, I'll go ahead.
Hinata : Sure, and I greet the supreme commander.
Placing her hand over her chest, she bowed respectfully...it wasn't necessary in private but again they were in public.
Dawn's new appearance wasn't well known so having Hinata who is one of the major leading figures of Ruberios bowing to someone could only mean one thing.
The person receiving this bow held a higher standing in Ruberios than her...this single action was enough to fuel the prying eyes's curiosity.
Journalist : Oi ! Why is the leader of the Great saint bowing to some unknown man ?
Journalist : Maybe a noble ?
Journalist : There is no way ! Hinata Sakaguchi would never bow to a simple noble ! He must be at least at the level of the holy emperor or the supreme commander of Ruberios !
Journalist : Didn't he just greet Goddess Luminous before anyone ? And even helped her come out ?
Chaos soon broke out, well it didn't really matter to the people concerned as Flora left along Hinata...they couldn't wait and listen to the reaction any longer.
As for one they were blocking a large chunk of the entrance gate and second, they had a sort of schedule to follow.
Traveler : Isn't that the rôle of Dawn Arceid ? Being the goddess Luminous's direct knight ?
Journalist : But then...that white haired man is-
Journalist : No way ! That's a scoop ! The hero that veiled over Ruberios for centuries had dyed his hair !
Ignoring the odd comment thrown at him, Dawn walked off toward the remaining group and helped organize everything.
Things went on smoothly as Eleonor's group left following the rest, and since he was still a knight at the direct charge of Luminous.
He had to escort her at least until the prying eyes were gone.
Dawn : Your group seems the most chaotic, Yuu.
Yuu : Oh you're here...ahh, honestly I really can't control those brat...
Dawn : Heh, well let me help then.
It seems the group with most of the noble brat was in hers, they were really noisy and ordered the servant around as if they were in one of their manors.
This was really infuriating, Dawn sighed and took a step forward...hitting the ground loudly, he sent a wave of coldness through the ground and air.
In an instant, the spoiled nobles all flinched and covered themself freezing...
Dawn : Now now, would you please shut up and listen to the knights ? I'm not in the mood for this.
Giving them a death glare, the brats quickly nodded their eyes and fortunately this will be the only time Dawn has to repress them today.
Yuu : Thank you...they were really getting under my skin...
Dawn : Don't worry about it, once you're done escorting them let's meet up and go grab some food.
Smiling, he patted her head softly before walking off...but at that moment something felt off.
Dawn : (Huh ? It doesn't feel like last time...did she do something?)
Keeping an impassive face as he was still in public, he narrowed his eyes and continued on his pace.
Since Luminous was the official leading figure for Ruberios and the most important guest for Tempest, instead of reaching for the hotel first.
She had to be escorted to Tempest Headquarter and meet with Rimuru first...for that, alongside Dawn, the remaining members of the great saints and several more competent holy knights were deployed.
This was a small parade for them as Luminous's faith will just increase tenfold now.
Kyuri : (Master...)
Dawn : (Mmh?)
Kyuri : (You still haven't noticed because they aren't threat but over 7 peoples had tried to harm Ruberios's convoy or you now...)
Dawn : (Is that so ?)
He really hasn't noticed any attempt, maybe because he was more focused on getting everything done...
Fortunately for them, they were in Tempest...a place guarded by primordial demons, those assassins must have been dealt with in secret.
Before they could bother the victim...also, Dawn was well aware that no assassin, even the most competent one, could eliminate the likes of Luminous or Velzard.
Dawn : (I thought you were just lazing in my arms but you were watching around...)
Kyuri : (Mhpf ! You think I'm just a sleepy head ? I won't forgive you before you buy me a lot of meat.)
Dawn : (Hai hai...)
Sighing at her antics, Dawn looked around briefly...noticing a shrinking Ultima peeking her head through the wall.
Upon making eye contact, the violet primordial flinched and ran away...
Dawn : (Heh, it seems she is the one who has been protecting us...)
Shaking his head, he thought that he should at least be kinder to her from now on.
Dawn : Anyway, let's go.
Joining with Luminous and Velzard, accompanied by a much more reinforced group...they made their way toward Tempest's governmental headquarters.
On the way, Dawn explained how this festival will proceed...today is still the opening day, the true first day is tomorrow.
And tomorrow evening, most of the guests should have arrived and a large banquet will be held in the evening...
Luminous : A banquet, huh...
Dawn : Yes, since Tempest is a free nation where nobility don't exist...both commoner and nobles will share the banquet, though they will be separated on two floors.
Luminous frowned lightly at this mention, this will undoubtedly lead to harassment, confrontation and more annoying things to deal with.
Luminous : What is Rimuru thinking ? Don't he know how spoiled this generation is ?
Dawn : Well, we count on the presence of many great rulers to intimidate the other nobles...and every nation has at least a few guards deployed.
Despite being clothed casually, every fighter and knight has their weapon at their waist...this was a common thing to do when visiting an outside nation.
Just in case things turn wrong, Ruberios possess the strongest army in the west by far...and with their alliance with Tempest, they should be allowed to kick out the troublemaker themself.
Velzard : Oi Dawn, what's that ? It looks appetizing.
Dawn : Mmh ? Oh that-
Kyuri : That's what they call crepes ! You can even put some ice cream on top of it, it's delicious !
Suddenly waking up, Kyuri jumped off of Dawn's arm to land on Velzard's shoulder and spoke.
Her tails wavering in excitement, Dawn could only facepalm at her attitude, while Velzard snickered before scratching her head.
Velzard : Well well, you guys go ahead, I have to grab some food with this little fox.
Dawn : Seriously...ahh, then take this.
Snatching a pouch of gold coin before tossing it toward Velzard, he was a bit scared of the prospect of someone angering Velzard but he could at least trust her calm character.
Velzard : Let's get going, then Kyuri-chan.
Kyuri : Yes mommy !
Velzard : Ara ara~
Dawn : (Damn brat...)
Waving them off, Luminous chuckled amused by the newly formed duo.
Luminous : That fox is quite cute.
Dawn : She is just a cheeky brat...
Luminous : We'll meet them later anyway, so let's get going.
Dawn : As your wish.
Luminous Pov
I have to admit, Tempest's growth is phenomenal...I visited this nation for the first time a few weeks ago and even spent a few nights here.
Yet, the current Tempest is so much different...i guess having an entire army of hundreds of thousands of Orc help...
Another thing that fascinated me is the fact that every single monster here is named...this is absurd as the amount of magicule needed for such a feat exceeds the norm.
I doubt if even me, Dawn and most of our Ruberios army would be enough to fill this amount...
I also found myself wondering if Rimuru did that alone, or perhaps Veldora did ? This was very intriguing...as if he did then i would have underestimated the already catastrophic True dragon...
Luminous : By the way, I can feel that stupid lizard aura but can't pinpoint it...
Dawn : Oh, Veldora...he should be in the labyrinth filling it with his magicule.
Luminous : Labyrinth, huh...i heard about that project, is it done ?
Dawn : Ramiris finished the overall shape a week ago, the main inhabitants are yet to live there but most of the floors are already filled with different monsters.
How exciting, I heard they were going to present and make this labyrinth one of the main events of this festival.
The idea is totally revolutionary to this world, a safe place where adventurers can fight without fearing death...a place with different difficulties and bosses.
Something like that is bound to succeed, I myself would like to try to challenge it but I guess having a true demon lord fighting would be meaningless.
Luminous : I think I heard Hinata mention that the other day...
Dawn : Yes, she and a squad of holy knights will challenge it as a demonstration.
Luminous : Oh ?
Dawn : Thought it won't be a good way to evaluate the labyrinth's force as most of it's strongest entities are yet to finish their evolution.
Luminous : And how powerful are you estimating them ?
Dawn : Mmh, it's hard to tell but I'm sure even if it's you...things would get difficult once those monsters awoke.
This startled me a little, I couldn't even be angry because Dawn always made truthful statements...instead of being mad, I pondered how powerful those monsters and Tempest would become in the future.
Perhaps even without Ruberios's help, they could stand their own against the Eastern empire or Guy's force.
Dawn : We have arrived.
Looking up, I raised my hand to slightly lift the veil covering my eyes...the tall building made of white stone was still the same as the one I saw last time.
The only main difference is that the servants were moving quickly...it seems I am not their first guest of the day.
Dawn : We'll skip the file so let's go in, knights ! I will escort Lady Luminous on my own now !
Giving his orders, we couldn't just barge into a federal building with several knights...besides the dozen of them surrounding me was just for the show.
In a way, Louis or Roy, even Gunthler would be enough to act as a bodyguard...they wouldn't even be of use as I was superior.
Having Dawn here is just a luxury I allowed myself, after all there are only a few that would dare fight me.
Luminous : Oho ?
My eyes narrowed a bit as I noticed that among the waiting nobles and guests, humans and monsters were mixed.
I could see some more exotic races like the Lizardmen, or some more impressive races like the Tengu.
I doubt their representative and rulers would follow the normal procedure...are they trying to send a message by sending some random here ?
A message like : Monsters and humans alike are subject to the same rules ?
Or is it just them paying a tribute since Rimuru had become the owner of the Jura forest...in any case, Tempest might really become the foundation for human and monster coexistence.
Dawn : Then this way, my lady.
Luminous : Sure sure, lead the way.
Leaving that intriguing sight, I turned around and followed the road designed for me...a red carpet leading to a back door which actually seemed bigger than the actual entrance.
Ignoring the stare giving to me for a privilege like this, I slowly marched toward while releasing a wave of holy energy.
This should be enough to convert my presence as a goddes-
Noble : Oi oi ! Why are they getting the vip treatment when I, a great duke, has to wait !
I spoke too soon...or is that pig a dumbass ? Can't he read the situation...i couldn't help but sigh.
However i didn't stop, i continued to walk without a care...for one he isn't a threat at all, for second i'll destroy his life by ruining my mood.
Noble : EH ! How dare you ignore me ! As expected this monster nation is worthless, can't even recognize my greatness !
I sighed again and just entered the building ignoring the fading grassy voice of a pig.
Dawn : I saw Ultima watching the scene, she will surely take care of that guy.
Luminous : Ultima ? Oh you mean, Violet...well, i guess unlucky him.
I chuckled a bit while wiping the memories of that pig off of my memory.
3rd Pov
Finally reaching the meeting room, Rimuru welcomed Luminous...at his side were multiple other nobles that had come earlier.
Among them, the most prominent name would be Gazel Dwargo...the others are, as Luminous thought, representative of some other monster race.
She could see a few Tengu, some elf but the empress didn't seem to have made the journey here herself.
But knowing her, she would definitely come later during the festival, perhaps she is even already here visiting Tempest with a disguise.
Luminous : This isn't even the official first day...how exciting.
Taking her seat, she occasionally joined the discussion Rimuru and the others had...since it's an exclusive room for privileged guests.
They wouldn't be bothered by the other nobles who were taken care of in another room.
Rimuru : Oh, I almost forgot but I also plan to build a church for Luminism here in Tempest.
Luminous : Huh ?
Dawn : What ?!
The sudden news not only startled those two but everyone around the room...what he just announced was basically to add Luminism as a religion for Tempest's inhabitants...
Gazel : Oi Rimuru...you can't be serious right ? This is basically asking to become a vassal nation for Ruberios...
Momiji : Yes ! It will also tarnish your reputation as a demon lord !
Protests filled the room as Rimuru realized how stupid that idea actually was, his intentions were a bit too pure for the political world.
Rimuru : E-eto...
Luminous : As much as I want to agree, you do know how much of a problem this will cause to everyone ?
Rimuru : Well, I noticed that a lot of adventurers and tourists followed Luminism...so I thought about helping their belief a little...
Luminous : Ahh...you are truly a newbie...don't build a church or you'll face annoying consequences.
Rimuru : Haha...
Scratching his cheek, the whole idea was buried and never brought back on the table...
Raphael : (Master is an idiot...)
Rimuru : (Eh ? Did you say something?)
Raphael : (Notice : It's your imagination.)
Rimuru : I-i see...
A day then passed and finally the Festival truly started...the ambiance within the capital changed drastically.
A cheerful atmosphere filled every street as food stands, merchants from everywhere around the world, parades and many more attractions happened all over the city.
It was truly remarkable and anyone would be impressed...the originality and culinary revolution was there, from the first day this Festival was already a success.
As for the nobles, they just visited as the main event for them would be during the evening...
Dawn for him was walking around with a small group...since moving around with Ruberios's representative would attract too much attention.
He was currently with Yuu and Flora, in front of them were two kids who were Rimuru's students...Chloe and Ryota.
The children of Class S arrived last evening and since Rimuru would be busy with the festival, he wanted to ask Hinata to take care of them.
Ultimately, Dawn proposed to himself to take two of them while they move around and swap the group later.
Chloe : Dawn ! Can you buy me that Rimuru-sensei plushie !
Dawn : Sure.
But at that moment, something really annoyed Flora and Yuu...as they were both lefted alone to take care of Ryota while Dawn accompanied Chloe.
Despite having « met » earlier, they were talking as if they were long time friend...
Flora : Isn't that weird...
Yuu : It totally is...
Watching from afar, Chloe was just running around like how a normal child would in a Festival...Dawn followed closely while complying with whatever request she had.
This earned a complicated expression from Yuu who just closed her feelings...
At some point she even found herself sitting on his shoulder, observing the busy city from a higher height.
Chloe : Oh ! I can see Hinata-nee's group there !
Dawn : We'll join them later, for now let's look around for some food. We skipped lunch so we need to eat now.
Chloe : What ? Do you even need to eat ?
Dawn : I don't, you do.
At the same time, Chloe's stomach growled, making the girl embarrassed.
She quickly looked away with a cute pout plastering her face.
Dawn : See, anyway where do you guys want to eat ?
Flora : I heard they opened a restaurant based on Chinese food around here. We can have a simple lunch for now.
Yuu : I'm fine with whatever there is...
Ryota : Chinese food ? Is that good ? I never had that before...
Flora let out a small smile as she patted the boy's head.
Flora : Naturally, you don't believe we'll let you kids eat crap, right.
Ryota : Then I want to eat that too !
Dawn : Then let's go.
Leading the group, the restaurant in question was easy to find, the service was quite fast too and in less than an hour, they were already outside continuing trying to find their next destination.
The day passed by, everyone had their share of fun and laugh, until the evening came...the cheerful city still illuminated even as the moon took over.
Near a castle-like building specially made for the occasion...hundreds of nobles and commoners alike were conveyed to a grand banquet.
The theme was class so most of the people there were clothed in dress and formal uniform.
Those who were part of the guards and security team for their respective master were in military uniform.
Dawn Pov
Ahh, I was almost forced to wear those ridiculously expensive suits...well this uniform isn't much better, I have dozens of those fake medals on the chest decorating to make it more impressive.
Anyway, today was fun...how long has it been since I had this much fun ? No bothering to touch my blade even once...
Laughing and just enjoying...this might be a first since 2000 years ago...i even passed time with Chloe who was my teacher...
I thought she decided to enact the act of a little sister or daughter so we could use it as an excuse to pass time together.
Dawn : If only I could repeat this day over and over.
My eyes darted forward with a hint of nostalgia...I let out a short sigh before sensing someone approaching me.
Ignoring for now, I decided to scan the room since I was technically still on duty to protect Luminous.
Not everyone was present here, like Eleonor decided to rest...Lucas and Shuu too, the kids also didn't come.
I think Chloe wanted to but after getting scolded by Shizue...she reluctantly backed down, speaking of Shizu...
The reunion between her and the children was rather emotional...I just looked from afar so as to not interrupt them.
Anyway, Rimuru seemed to chat with Shizue and Hinata, both dressed in a silky black dress...i already knew how Hinata would look because of the manga.
But Shizue is really stunning, I can understand why so many fans liked her...on the other hand, people have been severely underestimating Rimuru's appearance.
He was wearing a simple suit but his facial harmony and clean silver blue hair really made him stand out...from a third eye, 3 goddesses were gathered talking.
Anyone would just dream of courting them...fortunately, pretty much everyone knows what Rimuru looks like, he also made an intro speech earlier so nothing should happen.
Velzard : Oya ? Why are you standing here alone ?
Turning my head sideways, Velzard was also a beauty...she was currently wearing a red dress adorned with a hint of gold, a large scarf as white as her hair.
A singular glass of wine between her finger tips, she didn't lose to either Shizue or Hinata in terms of beauty.
Dawn : Well everyone is enjoying it, I'm a bit too old for these kinds of parties.
Normally I would spend my time with either Testarossa or members of my units but they all dispersed as the banquet started.
Testarossa being on duty, as the minister of the foreign affair and main diplomat of Tempest, it was her job to go around and find promising allies for Tempest.
Yuu was here a moment ago but she was dragged away by Kyuri who was hungry...Flora is serving Luminous tonight...
The rest not joining the banquet, I was quickly left alone not like I minded.
Velzard : Too old ?
Dawn : You might not understand because you were born immortal but I had a lifespan...in fact too, despite not feeling it, I'm oddly conscious of how long I had lived.
Velzard : I see, but you should enjoy it a bit more.
Giving me a small smile, she took a sip of her wine before walking off...I could only shake my head at her comment.
Crossing my arm while leaning my back against the wall, overshadowed by the brightness that this banquet procured.
I just gazed forward silently...lost in my own thoughts.
I had gone through a lot...honestly, my mind must have been broken long ago...yet my fight hasn't ended yet...
So why am I here ? Relaxing while I should find a way to finish this...to defeat the Author.
I used the excuse of resting before the final fight but this isn't quite right...i'm just afraid of the future.
Has I ever feared death ? The answer would be no...when I was Origin, I couldn't feel what others did.
But while growing up, becoming a duke, fighting a long war...Origin gained emotion...
Dawn is different though, he was born emotional and had to lose his will to survive...but I failed in that, I could totally seal my emotion.
The people around me...Sola in particular made sure I won't...she wanted me to have a better life than my previous one.
But this ultimately led me to the present, where I could only helplessly watch everyone have fun...knowing that the future might not be as bright as everyone wishes.
How many people here will die ? Will I even survive ? No, in fact I already have the answer for all this...
I'm just scared of becoming closer to others...because ultimately, it will only bring sadness.
Dawn : I wonder what the world will look like after the end...
I pondered melancholically, closing my eyes with an unreadable expression, I just waited as my existence faded into space itself.
Yuu : Boss, are you okay ?
Dawn : Mmh ?
Startling me a bit, I didn't realize that someone approached me...in front of me was this young black haired lady.
I had watched her grow over the years as she reincarnated into this world.
She is one of the very few I held the closest to my heart...
Dawn : Yeah, just dozed off for a moment.
Yuu : You seem tired, maybe you should go rest...
Dawn : You know I don't need rest, don't worry I'm just sorting out my thoughts.
Studying her, I failed to notice how she let her hair grow a bit...for this banquet, she had chosen a deep blue dress with large flowers decorating her waist.
It revealed a bit too much of her skin but actually less than most nobles ladies...
For a moment, my mind drifted away into the past and present as I recognized this style of dress...it was one a lady affiliated to the duchy of Averion would wear in a formal ceremony.
A light smirk popped on my face as i raised my hand and gave Yuu a light pat.
Yuu : Eh ?
Dawn : Thank you, in reality I just felt lonely for a bit there.
Yuu : I-i see...
Dawn : You reminded me of some old memories.
Yuu : Do you want to talk about it ?
Talk, huh...once again, several images flashed in front of my eyes, they went so fast yet it was agonizingly slow.
Dawn : Sure...but be ready for a long story.
My eyes softened a bit, her appearance was different...her presence and aura too, even her magicule yet I knew she was here with me.
Deep down, i wanted to tell Yuu my story...a long story that served as my past...
Yuu Pov
Today was really fun...this kind of atmosphere could never be found in Ruberios, and i was grateful for this.
Later, during the banquet after escaping Kyuri-chan's grasp by tossing Flora in...i decided to take a break and found Dawn-san alone.
He had that distant aura as if he was going to disappear at any instant now...my body moved by instinct as I approached him.
I didn't really know why but i just did...he then went on as we engaged in a short discussion...
And I couldn't help but shudder, he didn't say much yet I felt like I was being crushed by the burden he was trying to carry...
At the end, all I could do was listen to his story...taking a walk outside, our slow steps traveled across the large garden filled with bushes and flowers.
My eyes focused on the surroundings while my ears focused on the voice beside me...a voice that bore nothing but nostalgia, regrets and sorrow.
Dawn : Can you believe that ?
Nodding my head softly, he had went through a big part of his story now...his previous life, his first meeting with a god, the purest genius that Catherine Wisdon was, the day he saved Shyria, the great war, the minor one, the appearance of beasts beyond this world, his quest against death itself...
I just listened quietly as his story just defiled into my ears...I wanted to comfort him but something deep within me stopped my body.
I felt like it wasn't my place to do that...that someone else had this rôle, someone I knew but didn't at the same time.
Dawn : Don't you find me pathetic ? In the end, I am protected by those I should protect...
Yuu : This might be true...but also so wrong, after all you are the owner protecting us right now.
My words were sincere, but as honest as I could be...it didn't reach Dawn-san.
Dawn : I see...I took enough of your time, so go and enjoy the banquet before it ends.
I nodded...that was the only thing I could do, then I realized...this story wasn't meant for me to hear, Dawn-san thought of me as someone else.
He used my ears hoping that the one he wanted to hear his story...
Yuu : I-i'll take my leave then.
Walking away, I didn't dare turn around...I wanted to comfort him sincerely, telling him that he fought well enough now.
That i wanted to carry his burden too but...all this was sealed in my mouth incapable of coming out.
My legs moved on their own as before i knew, i had already gone out of sight for Dawn...his presence was still there, he didn't move at all.
What am I doing ? Why did I leave just now ? I should have talked...i should have helped him so why ?
I couldn't understand my own actions, they were guided not by me...
Yuu : I-ugh...
My head suddenly felt nauseous...I clenched my teeth in pain before settling down on a bench near my location.
Looking up, the sky was filled with stars...these were good and joyful days, yet I felt so lonely right now...
3rd Pov
Dawn stood at the same location he was before...his eyes darted upward at the sky filled with stars.
2 minutes then passed, then 5, then 10, then 20...he didn't really count but time felt so familiar and logical to him now.
He just felt the course of time flow as the world moved...
Dawn : Is this because I experienced Suspended world ? I feel like time and space has fused with my digital life form...
This was truly odd, a peaceful and void like sensation...once again, he was fading into space like he was part of that element.
Space was like a calm sea...a pure line with no disturbance...the grass, the air, the tree...everything was part of that line.
Until a single fluctuation induced through the clearwater...someone was here, popping from behind Dawn.
A lady with pure white hair, she was still cladded in a long cloak that covered most of her body...but this time, her hood was down.
???: Am I interrupting something ?
Dawn : No.
Finally moving, Dawn sat down on one of the many benches lined in the garden...and soon enough, ??? joined him taking the seat at his left.
Both stayed silent for a good while...a comfortable silence like the one they had before...
Dawn : You heard me, right...my story ?
???: Yes, it's a heroic tale filled with glory that ended in misery...a plan that brought out excellence surrounded by darkness.
Dawn : I see...so that's how you see it.
??? looked up, she didn't really stare at the stars like any other people, she just looked up for no reason...her mind process went over a few lot of things.
???: Can I ask a question ?
Dawn : Sure...
???: You and Catherine Wisdon, from what I heard both of you had a child together but the child never came to life...
Dawn : Yes...
???: Did both of you have decided on a name ? Even if the baby was never born ?
Dawn : A name, huh...
Memories flashed once again in his mind...lost memories during the dark age of his past life...
Flashback
Staring down at her belly, Catherine Wisdon smiled softly while gently caressing the new lifeform that was forming within her.
On the other side, Origin was still working trying to find a way to cheat death and resurrection one...
Catherine : Say...what should be the name of our child ?
Origin : I don't really have any idea...
Catherine : Mmh let's see, a name that could represent the next generation...i think i got a good one, it's from a language used in the east, a lost language.
Origin : A lost language ?
Still, even after such a declaration, Origin's eyes didn't leave his research.
Catherine : Yes, if it's a boy, let's call him Asuka...I heard that means bright future in the lost language.
Origin : I see...
Catherine : And if it's a girl, let's call her *****.
At that time, Origin didn't really listen to Catherine...since he wasn't as excited as her for the incoming birth.
But that memories never really leave him...he just buried it away after they died.
Flashback end
A long silence intertwined with Dawn's answer, those memories weren't pleasant...in fact it was enough to break a grown man's mind realizing how much he had lost.
But Dawn just looked down, his lips curved into the tiniest smile he could form as he opened his mouth.
Dawn : If it's a boy, his name would be Asuka, that means Bright future in Japanese...and if it's a girl...
???'s eyes narrowed, her heart started to pound faster as she awaited for the next answer.
Dawn : Her name would be the future, Mirai...Mirai Averion, the hope we held at that time for a brighter future.
???'s eyes widened, her world made of gray soon turned colorful as she embraced the wind hitting her face...
Her expression twisted in refreshment as if a long time goal had been fulfilled.
She exhaled some air before letting it all out, a relaxed sigh came out of her pretty mouth as she stretched her arm.
Her lips quivered trying to hold the big smile she desperately wanted to let out, her blue eyes shone brighter than ever.
???: Mirai...what a beautiful name, I'm sure that girl would have loved it.
A name she had only heard in the memories of her mother, finally being called by her true name for the first time...
The sole heir of the past duchy of Averion was revealed to the world, her identity was approved by one of the only two people she wanted to hear from.
Dawn : I see...it's a good thing then...thank you.
The night was still fresh, Tempest was a light for this world but like any light...there is a large darkness looming out.
A darkness that made you feel lonely, this was the duty and burden that one must carry so the light never waver, so that hope in itself overcomes the sad reality that all living beings are subject.
Mirai : (Mirai Averion...that's my true name, it feels really good to hear someone calling my name for the very first time...)
Mirai, she was by all means an anomaly...a soul born strong enough to manage two world crossings...one that possessed limitless potential.
She was more aware of the shadow looming over the world than anyone...if her father was the moon, her mother the sun...
Then she was the earth, a hope for the future...she only ever had a single goal, a single piece of greed but now she felt much more needy.
She wanted much more...but she was aware of how much she can have.
Mirai : No, I should be the one to thank you...I hope you have a better evening from now.
Getting up, she wanted to leave as soon as possible because staying here any longer would just trigger this greed of hers.
But before she could conclude and get away, a firm hand grabbed her wrist...the action in itself startled Mirai as she looked down in shock.
Dawn : Please...just this once, let me seal my resolve once again.
Mirai : What ?
She couldn't understand the meaning of his words, but instinctively she felt a weight on her heart...it was just a few words that held so much mystery to it.
On the spot, she didn't react...her body became rigid as she let herself be guided by the pitiful father that stood in front of her.
His arm embraced her, as her head fell on his chest...she could hear the soundless heartbeat of a being so strong yet so weak.
And now all that followed was a pure breathtaking silence as both stood there motionless for several minutes...
A looming shadow, this was the perfect way to describe the situation within the spooky palace or also known as the seal made by god to imprison a greater danger.
Surrounded by thousands of mindless angels, several Seraphym ready to take action at any moment...the world destroyer dragon was secured within that seal.
Its gigantic body laid there chained up with no possibility of moving, his own instinct of destruction was dismissed over the age...
But one thing no one knew...that the dark purple scaled body of this chaotic being was nothing more but a cover.
The physical body is just a rotten corpse as inside its very spirit lived in the form of a humanoid lady with silver white hair.
Her underdeveloped body, her cold eyes...she was a being born from destruction, despite her unknown age sourcing from an origin way before anything known.
She had only recently gained a mind...a consciousness without source to learn.
Sealed alone here, she sharpened her fangs as a singular existence extended their hand to her...
???: It's soon time for me to awaken...
Her voice came out cold, she waited and waited for so long...until the day her seal broke and she fulfilled the purpose given to her.
Her name is Varja, she is the world destroyer dragon Ivarage...she is the very incarnation of destruction and messenger of the parasyte looming around the world.
A mindless being given a consciousness to fulfill the destruction of this world...her fangs as sharp as any blade and unbeknownst to everyone.
Varja : It has been a while since the Author came to see me...no, there is no need to worry, my time is almost there, just wait a bit longer...