Chapter 517

517 Towards Freedom

From the window of the half-destroyed castle, Ursula stared blankly at the aftermath of the battle under her feet.

The corpses of allies and foes that were scattered around the fortress had mostly been cleared up. However, beyond the partially collapsing wall, there stood Gluttony Octos colossal body. Utterly burnt, its remains turned into a small black mountain, merging with the terrain.

The remains of the monster which had devoured an entire fortress needed to be dealt with as soon as possible. However, everyones hands were full. If anything, nothing could be done about it unless the crusader dispatched some reinforcements.

Regardless, Ursula wasnt preoccupied with the post-war process.

Priest Kuroe, Sister Yuri

After the Gluttony Octo had perished in the golden flames, the remaining swarm of octopuses scattered away. At last, the crusaders had won

But the two still didnt return.

In truth, Ursula already knew why.

Instead of remaining in a place where they had to lead a fake life, the two had returned to where they belonged.

Have you arrived at Sparda yet?

That day was also the first day of the Pristine Water Month, when the moon changed from ice crystal. Since the battle against Gluttony Octo, three days had pa.s.sed.

It was enough time for Ursulawho was smarter than children of her ageto accept the reality;

The reality that the two would never come back.

Furthermore, she had even witnessed their departure to Sparda from afar.

When the Gluttony Octo crashed, Ursula rushed outside.

To get a clearer view, she ran atop the castle walls, and witnessed a fireballblazing like the sunwiping down the gigantic creature in a single blow. It took her some time to register that the devastating power was actually a fire spell.

Looking at the blazing mountain of fire, just as the victory began to dawn on her, she saw a glowing figure on the road leading to the distant Galahad Mountains.

A pet.i.te figure with divine aura, almost seeming like an angel. Next to the winged girl, she immediately saw a man who could only be Kuroe. After all, there was no other man like him, who donned heavy armor while holding a limbless girl.

She was glad that Priest Kuroe and Sister Yuri were safe

However, that joy was short-lived.

Only once did he seem to look back at her. The castle was far away from there. As such, he shouldnt be able to see her, much else return her gaze.

Whether it was a mere coincidence or a figment of her imagination, that was the last time Ursula felt his presence.

As if guided by the s.h.i.+ning girl, Kuroe made his way down the path while holding Sister Yuri. Then, instead of the Alsace Fortress, he went to the towering Galahad Mountains.

Afterwards, they suddenly disappeared. Briefly, the s.p.a.ce around them distorted, as if it had been twisted.

Right away, she knew it was a magic to conceal their presences, since she could also do the same. As such, she also knew the impossibility of finding those who had completely erased their existences.

Thus, Ursula was left alone.

Hed definitely come back

Such was the promise between the two, which vanished like a lie.

I have to return as well.

Strangely, Ursula didnt bear any resentment towards them, while she did have regrets.

She was sad enough to cry, and lonely enough to s.h.i.+ver

However, she was fully aware of the inevitable future.

For the time being, as a survivor, she should rightfully return to the 202nd Colony, and built Rekis tomb.

As for the future she didnt even want to think about it.

Thinking about the devastating future had proven to be too lonely for Ursula, who was only 12-years-old.

Goodbye, Priest Kuroe

With a truly blank expression on her face, Ursula left, a sense of loss engulfing her hollowed heart.

Even three days after the battle had ended, the Alsace Fortress was still bustling.

Many soldiers were injured, while the dilapidated castle had to be extensively repaired. In addition to the original garrison, all the villagers from the 202nd Colony to the West had also gathered. As such, it was only natural that the place would be lively.

Now that the crisis had been averted, everyone had a beaming smile on their faces, and the children were innocently running around outside. Ursula was supposed to be one of those children. However, after experiencing a harsh battle that not just any adventurers could survive, Ursula could no longer join them.

Lady Ursula, so youre in a place like this.

As she wandered aimlessly, Ursula was approached by Cliffa commander in heavy armor. Cliff and Ryan were like a dog and a monkey, and for some reason was referred to as bean sprout. But after surviving such a fierce battle together, Ursula acknowledged him as a comrade-in-arms.

Ursula basically looked down on men other than Kuroe.

Whats the matter, Cliff?

The reinforcements from the crusader side have just arrived. As such, we may be able to depart for the village today, at the earliest.

Although by reinforcements, it meant that more soldiers would be coming, what mattered to the villagers was the supplies they brought.

At the very least, the crusaders werent so callous as to cut off all the settlers. After being defeated by Spada, the Third Armya coalition of n.o.blessuffered the most. Nevertheless, the churchs first and second armiesthe core of the forcewere both alive and well, and didnt outright forsake their fellow crusaders.

While rebuilding the village itself was difficult, itd never have been possible without the backing of the crusaders.

I see We can finally go home.

Are you going to return to the village?

Theres nowhere else to go.

With your magical prowess, I think you can become the ace of the Crusaders magician unit? Are you willing to volunteer?

If Kuroe was there, hed probably get mad at him for making a child fight.

However, Cliff didnt mean anything bad. He simply appreciated Anastasias power for what it was, so Ursula wasnt particularly offended. If anything, she felt happy that her ability was recognized.

I have no reason to fight anymore.

Is that so? Certainly, from now on, you should focus on leading a peaceful life at the church, right?

Ursula, who had become alone, couldnt honestly think that shed be happy, but she was still grateful for Cliffs thoughtfulness.

Well then, Ill go back to everyone.

I see, goodbye. G.o.d bless you.

Leaving Cliff, who sent her off with an elegant knights bow, Ursula went to the villagers of 202nd Colony, who had begun preparing for their departure.

Since she didnt feel like playing with other children, she should help them out.

To begin with, she didnt have that many belongings, and thanks to the dimension pouch she got from Kuroe, packing was easy.

Therefore, what Ursula should think about was the method of transportation for Rekis remains.

Even without Cliffs favoritism, it was clear that Ursula made a huge contribution in that battle. In her consideration, Rekis remains wouldnt be cremated alongside the fallen soldiers, but instead stored in a coffin to be buried in 202nd Colony.

In a simple, white, coffin lay the body of Reki, who seemed as if asleep, looking as beautiful as the time when the squid was separated from her body. Just before the coffin lid was closed, Ursula still believed that shed open her eyes and said, Hey!

As the person who was left behind, her emotions were difficult to describe, but objectively speakingthe coffin was huge. It wasnt a size that could be carried by a person.

In order to transport it, a wagon would be necessary. Therefore, itd be difficult if she didnt secure the s.p.a.ce in advance. However, since there was Randolph, there shouldnt be a problem. Nevertheless, Ursula went to the entrance of the castle, where the adults wouldve gathered.

Its necessary to confirm.

The front door had been blown off along with the walls. As such, it could no longer be called an entrance, since it was already outdoors. Nevertheless, there was no other suitable place where a lot of people could gather while hunkering down a bunch of ma.s.sive luggage, so it was used as it was.

From the destroyed entrance, large wagons and dragon carriages with crossed flags could be seen lining up inside the fortress, exactly as Cliff said.

If the villagers were swarming the long-awaited relief supplies like a bunch of zombies, Ursula could understand the noise But the atmosphere was unsetting. Not only that, it was strangely noisy.

Whats the matter?

Amidst her suspicion, Ursulas curiosity prevailed, and she decided to join the group of onlookers without giving it as much as a thought.

Making her way through the crowds of soldiers and villagers alike, she eventually reached the scene of commotion.

She could hear some people arguing. However, itd be difficult to grasp the situation without going to the front row. Becoming somewhat stubborn, Ursula pushed through, and finally reached it.

Like I said, I dont know anything!

Ryan was at the center of the commotion.

Considering how short-tempered Ryan was, it wasnt surprising for him to yell. But after the time they had spent together, she could guess from his expression that he was really angry.

What, so its just a quarrel. As expected of Ryan

The reason why Ursula didnt think that was because she knew the person who stood in front of him.

T, thats the Inquisition

A group of people stood there, clad in white, representing the Crusaders.

Meanwhile, the one who argued with Ryan was a girl in pure white, monastic attire with some embellishment.

Is girl a correct term?

While the girl may be past the age of adulthood, she appeared to be less than twenty of age.

Her chestnut hair, peeking out from her white hood, was l.u.s.trous. However, her beautiful face was marred with her s.a.d.i.s.tic sneer.

Probably, the aforementioned hood and cloak were the reason why Ryan didnt straight up pummel the womans face. In addition to that, men were lined up behind said woman in an orderly manner.

If it was only their attire, then there was nothing to be afraid of. However, strapped to each of their backs was a huge, cross-shaped, claymore that emitted a ferocious killing intent. It probably wouldnt be too farfetched to think that youd be cut in half if you did as much as look at them the wrong way

In fact, if they considered you an enemy, theyd probably attack you ruthlessly. The most feared fanatic in Sinclair, whose cruelty and ruthlessness were a testament to their boundless faith, was the Inquisition. Such was the name of an organization who was supposed to execute Ursula because her Drain ability went out of control.

Why are they in such a place?

Without a second thought, Ursula tried to leave, as a sense of emergency pervaded her entire body.

!?

Oh, it looks like you decided to come out on your own, the filthy, cursed, child of Ibrahim.

The female inquisitor, sporting a poisonous smile, spotted Ursula.

From her way of speaking, Ursula knew that the woman was looking for her.

She froze, as if being spotted by a basilisk. Then, Ursula tried to slip past the crowd, but it was too late.

Aah!

Since when?

At the edge of her vision, she saw a hooded, st.u.r.dy manand in the next second, shock ran through her abdomen.

She wriggled on the hard, stone floor. She didnt even know whether she was punched, or kicked. In her dimming consciousness, Ursula realized that she had been thrown in front of the female inquisitor.

Hey, are you okay!? Dammit, you should be ashamed of yourself for beating a brat!

I should say the same. As a believer, arent you ashamed of protecting such an accursed child?

Be it Ryans angry voice, or the female inquisitors voicethey were getting more and more distant Her consciousness felt hazy, as if she was dreaming.

Back when she was still a child, she experienced the same feeling. However, she couldnt put a name to it. It was suffocating, as if she was underwatergloomy Yes, it was a similar feeling to when she was still living in the orphanage.

Youre too full of yourself! Just what did she do!?

Ive looked into it. Her ability to drain the white mist I seem to recall the abominable, cursed king having the same ability.

No, it isnt a curse

After all, Priest Kuroe taught me that this magic existed for the sake of protecting myself, and above all, those who I cared about

Although she wanted to express her feelings, Ursula could only wheeze.

D-dont be silly! While we were frantically fighting the octopuses, you wasted your time doing such pointless research!? And now, you have the gall to show up and say whatever you like!

But when Ryan was about to grab the female inquisitor by her collar, two hooded men stood in front of him. The men rested their hands on their claymores, implying if Ryan were to take another step, hed be cut down.

Wont you stop making a fuss? Im saying this for the sake of you all. After all, you should be aware of the duties and the authority of the Inquisition, yes?

Are you threatening us?

Cold sweat trickled from Ryans forehead.

For those who grew up in the countryside of Sinclair, the Inquisition was almost like a fairy tale. However, Ryanwho lived in the Holy City of Elision, was aware of them. Executions of heretics were a daily occurrence, and beheading people were akin to signing doc.u.ments to them.

However, it wasnt only limited to the heretics.

The same fate would befall those who attempted to s.h.i.+eld the heretics.

While it in itself was a rare occurrence, there existed a thing called The Purge, where an entire village would be burned down. In case of urgency, the Church would openly authorize the Inquisition to do so.

In other words, if things went awry, all the people gathered here could be executed.

Pfft, please dont misunderstand me? Were no barbarians. We do not enjoy tainting our hands with bloodeven more so with those that are shed by our compatriots.

Gracefully, the female inquisitor gently shook her hand, and the pair of hooded men withdrew from Ryans presence.

Were here as part of maintaining the public order. Until recently, Pandora is an evil land overrun by demons. Until today, we still dont know what kind of evils lurk in the background.

I heard that the remnants of Daedalus were wiped out by the Apostles.

Indeed, exactly! Its a masterpiece that should serve as a model for us all. Even though we arent as excellent as the Holy Apostles chosen by G.o.d, we shall do our best, as well! Thats right, and this accursed child is the prime example of the heretics whore cunningly disguising themselves

The female inquisitor couldnt exactly be said to be pretentious, since finding and getting rid of heretics was one of the Inquisitions main duties.

Moreover, Ryan had heard rumors that the capital of Daedalus was still looking for the remnants of the dead.

But still, why is it at a time like this?

It was difficult to understand why the Inquisition would appear at such a remote location, especially after the village had finally overcome the danger of being eradicated.

Shouldnt that be obvious? Ive been keeping an eye on the 202nd Colony for a long time. That shouldnt come off as a surprise to you, yes?

In response to that, Ryan bitterly averted his gaze, eliciting a smile of satisfaction from the female inquisitor.

Haha, please be rest a.s.sured. We dont have any intention of punis.h.i.+ng all the villagers. After all, the Devil always misled innocent people with sweet words, and would deceive devout believers Hence, its our duty to awaken your eyes to faith.

Slowly but surely, she began to understand where they were coming from.

To put it simply, if Ursulathe target of the Inquisitionwere to be handed over, the safety of the villagers would be guaranteed. However, if they tried to object, there was no saying whatd happen.

It was truly a simple request that even Ryan could easily fathom.

You understand what Im saying, right? Then, arrest her.

The female inquisitor extended her white arm towards Ursula, who lay at her feet.

Ursula, powerless as she was, couldnt show any sign of resistance, and was forced to stand up by the hand that yanked her s.h.i.+ny, silver twintail.

Ugh!

Ursula yelped in pain, and was about to raise her hand in reflex, only to be restrained by a hooded man. In the next moment, there was a dull, metallic clatter, which she recognized as the sound of handcuffs. Just like that, her wrists were bound in silver handcuffs.

The surface of the handcuffs was inscribed with ancient letters that glowed blue. Only Ryan, a knight, and Ursulawho had experienced the effect, knew it for what it wasa sealing magic.

Ugh, aah

Ursula groaned.

It was unknown whether the shock came from having her magic sealed, or because she was handcuffed.

It was difficult to believe that she was the same magician who slayed a horde of monsters. As of the presence, she looked nothing more than a powerless, helpless child.

Ursulas arms were restrained by a lanky hooded man, and she began to be taken away

At last, Ryan raised his voice.

W-wait

Despite having done that, from his sweaty face, it was apparent that he couldnt think of a word to stop them.

E-evidence, is there any?

If we start to investigate from now on, Im sure a lot will resurface.

She played a huge role in the previous battle, if you just take her away like that

Its alright, His Excellency Baron Herman will receive an official notice from the church later.

T-this child, shes the same as you lot, no? Even if shes still an apprentice, shes also a sister!

Its actually quite common for the Devil to put on the skin of a priest to trick people.

Any counter arguments he could think of were simply brushed off. In the first place, someone who acted based on pure conviction couldnt be stopped by logic.

W-what will happen to Ursula?

Since theres a suspicion that shes the descendant of Abrahamthe Cursed King of Ibrahim, shed be taken to the Great Church of Daedalus, where shed undergo a rigorous interrogation, before being put on trial.

It was a very well-known fact that not a single person had ever been acquitted by the Inquisition.

From the moment the white handcuffs latched on her hands, Ursulas fate was sealed.

Well, even without investigation, I already know this tainted child inherited the blood of the Cursed Kingaah even remembering it makes me shudder

It was as if she had known Ursulas magic for a long time.

However, Ryan couldnt afford to ask such a question, while the shaken Ursula couldnt recall whether or not she had encountered the Inquisition in the past.

Then, theres no more questions, I believe? Pardon me for the intrusion. We appreciate your cooperation in arresting the heretic. From the bottom of my heart, I pray for your speedy recovery.

After giving an elegant bow, the inquisitors turned on their heels.

No one dared to raise their voice, let alone try to stop them.

Ryan could only stare at Ursulas tiny back as she was dragged away. He clenched his teeth so hard; itd crumble. Nevertheless, if he made a careless move, hed be done for, since itd be considered treason.

No, perhaps, the Inquisition wouldnt even have to lift a finger, since the villagers and the soldiers here would rush to dispose of him first. Knowing what kind of repercussions awaited them, they wouldnt dare to take a risk.

They probably didnt like the idea of sacrificing a girl. However, her life and death werent theirs to decide, but the Inquisitions. Thus, they had no choice but to oblige.

Ryan shared the sentiment. Regardless of how frustrated he was, he still had his family, friends, and future to salvage.

If he could somehow save her by fighting bravely and die, then sure. But it was a different story if he were to die in vain.

Dammit Anyone, is there anyone who can help

But of course, there was none.

Priest Kuroe had already left.

In this world, not many people were willing to risk their lives to face the unreasonable and had the power to overcome it.

The Hero, who could save everything, was no longer there.

Anyone

Even so, he couldnt help but wish for salvation.

Even though he knew that G.o.d wouldnt lend a helping hand

Fuuuckiiin b.i.t.c.h!!

In the next moment, there was an incomprehensible scream, and Ryan almost couldnt believe his eyes.

After all, a figure suddenly leaped out, and sucker punched the female inquisitors face.

He didnt know when or where that person came from.

The female inquisitors entourage didnt even have time to stop her because it happened so fast.

As such, the moment she sensed that someone was approaching, she immediately received a blow to the face.

Uorgh

While letting out such a groan, the body of the female inquisitor spun in the air. The spin was accompanied by the twirling of blood which spurted from her broken nose. The artistic fall was fleeting, meeting a tragic end at the hands of gravity.

After slamming into the hard stone, her body tumbled for several meters before finally coming to a halt.

T, this is a lie

However, what was unbelievable wasnt the powerful blow, or the fact that someone was foolish enough to punch an inquisitor.

The most incredible and surprising thing was the ident.i.ty of the culprit

A fluttering, navy blue, monastic uniform. Glossy, blonde, curly short hair reminiscent of dog ears bouncing left and right. Her eyes, wide open, glowed red like burning flames.

Reki?

As if dreaming, Ursula asked the girl who stood in front of her. The girl who she was the closest with in the world.

Yes! Alright! Ur, youre okay now.

That face.

That voice.

That gesture

They all definitely belonged to Reki.

In front of her best friends sparkling smile, Ursula thought to herself

If this is a dream, please dont wake me up.

However, the presence of the two hooded men restraining her arm proved that the girl in front of her wasnt a figment of a sweet delusion.

The two men were already on the move to tarnish the touching reunionwhich was akin to a miraclewith blood.

You heathen

Time to die.

Their response was fairly quick. Since the female inquisitor had been blown away, it was understandable that theyd attack without command.

Without underestimating Reki, who seemed like a child, the hooded men braced themselves, and reached for their claymores.

How slow, I might fall asleep. If its Priest Kuroe, youd all be wiped out by now.

Reki took the initiative.

Just before the men could grasp their blades, Reki had already performed a kick. The kick itself wasnt eloquent or anything

However, the moment the modest yet powerful kick connected to them, the hooded man flew backwards.

Guh!?

Along with the dull sound of fractured bones, the hooded man let out a low groan.

From the outsiders perspective, the girl just casually kicked them. However, the destructiveness brought about by the kick was impressively ill.u.s.trated through the sight of the hooded mans broken leg, which had twisted backward.

Without even being able to reach for his weapon, the hooded man had collapsed on the spot.

Reki didnt just sit back and watch the situation.

Instead, Reki took his claymore, gripping it with her small hands

Die! You child of Barbados!

The other triangular-hooded man tried to swing his large sword at Rekis head. A blow with that power and sharpness could easily cut a child in halfhowever, it only cut into the stone floor in vain.

Despite having poured all his strength into that blow, he missed said Barbados child.

Did the man understand that it wasnt a mere illusion, but simply Reki moving out of the way?

Youre the one whos going to die, f.u.c.kin Sinclair!!

With the force of a sea dragon emerging from the water, Reki swung the claymore that was much larger than her body

The tip of the white blade flew straight towards the hooded mans throat.

Diiie!!

As she screamed in her mother tongue, she swung the claymore with all her might, and the mans head fell as easily as a stalk of fruit.

Basking in the shower of blood, Reki muttered with a slightly refreshed expression.

Too easy! As I thought, even if the enemys human, killing them doesnt mean a thing.

Reki, how?

Ursula didnt even understand her own question, but Reki still answered.

Of course Reki will come to your rescue, Ur, because Im the older sister!

Youre only a year older than me

Naturally, she answered that.

Even so, Im still your older sister!

It was a reenactment of a conversation they once had, and the two couldnt help but burst out laughing.

Reki, thank you, Im sorry

Its alright, its alright

Then, the two embraced each other, with tears welling in their eyes.

Ursula could clearly feel her warmthit proved that Reki was neither an illusion, or an undead.

In the truest sense of the word, Reki had been resurrected.

But how arent you supposed to be dead?

Huh?! Rekis dead?!

Eh?

Apparently, the miracle of the resurrection was unbeknownst to the person herself. Rekis eyes widened in shock.

No way! Reki isnt dead! Shes just asleep, like Sleeping Beauty!

Is that so?

Yep! After all, I can hear the voices of Priest Kuroe and you!

The testimony reminded Ursula of the uninteresting log doc.u.mentary she had once read in Priest Nikolais library before she arrived to the Pandora Continent.

In it, a man who had been poisoned and fell into a coma for three days and nights reported having heard the conversations of his family, friends, doctors, and the priests around him. The entry itself was written after the man had regained consciousness. Therefore, it should be possible for someone who was seemingly in a coma to retain consciousness.

But rather than coma, Reki wasnt even breathing or had any pulse at the time. There was a big difference between coma and deathnevertheless, from Rekis words, Ursula was convinced that she was in a similar state with the poisoned man.

Hence why, I already know that Priest Kuroe went away. Not only that, Ur seemed all alone As I thought, Reki has to be with Ur!

T-thats right Im a failure I cant do anything by myself

After all, Priest Kuroe and Sister Yuri were the ones who put an end to the Gluttony Octo. As for her, far from being able to stop them from leaving, she was caught by the Inquisition and almost got executed.

It made her aware that despite her magical power, she was still powerless in the end.

From now on, Reki will always be with Ur no matter what, so everythingll be alright!

Despite being covered in blood, Reki said so with a smile.

But What do we do from here?

You should think about it from now on, Ur!

Dozens of hooded people with claymores had already surrounded them by that point. Amongst them, there was also a magician wielding a white, long cane. The force was too much to be fended off by two children.

Since one of their companions had been killed, it was only natural. The reason why they didnt utter their resentment and instead resorted to the offense mustve been because they were wary of Rekis power. Especially after that vivid display of beheading.

Reki poised her sword to protect Ursula, while the hooded figures encircled them.

Ugh W-what have you done?

The trashed female inquisitor broke the tense silence. Like a zombie, she stood up in aghast, hiding her broken nose and crumbling front teeth with the hem of her robe.

Hurry, hurry up and kill those heathens!

The hooded figures silently carried out the order of the furious female inquisitor. At the tip of the raised staff, a blinding light began to spread. At the same time, the vanguards marched forward.

Well have no choice but to break through and escape.

Reki thinks the same, too! Now, Ur, let me help you!

As soon as Ursula held out her bound wrists, Rekis claymore flashed. In no time at all, Reki had freed her best friends from her shackles.

Ill eliminate the fanaticsWhite Yaksha Princess: Anastasia!

Lets goGo, Fire!

It was supposed to be the beginning of an impressive brawl where swordsmans.h.i.+p and magic clashed against each other

Fire!

But suddenly, there was a scream.

And that scream was enough to stir the crowd, who had no choice but to remain as silent spectators.

Theres a fire! Fire! Everyone, run!

Theres no way! After all, were in an open voice!

Such a suspicious voice flew, only to be met with an explosion.

The white carriage that was parked behind the furious inquisitors suddenly exploded, and everyone saw it went up in flames.

As if hit by a high-level fire spell, the white carriage, emblazoned with the churchs cross, was engulfed in flames. Due to the scorching heat and the booming noise, the four horses tethered to the carriage instantly fell into a state of panic.

Then, the horses began to go berserk. That was right, they ran wild despite the fact that the burned carriage was still attached to them. In front of the main gate overflowing with people.

Uwaaaaah!

Hey, quick, run! Enter the castle right away!

What are you doing!? Move! This way!

As if they had completely forgotten of the Inquisition, people began to move in unison to avoid the blazing crisis. The destination was the castles main gate. Waves of people, as instinctive as the horses, surged into the inviolable pandemoniumwhere the Inquisition was about to execute Reki and Ursula in the name of G.o.d.

With the force of an avalanche, it indiscriminately swallowed everyone.

Y-you idiot! Move out of the way! Were about to kill the heathens

The voice of the female inquisitor, who was madly shouting something, was drowned up by the crowds of people who ran away in fear. The same went for the hooded figures, because countless people suddenly barged into the battlefield, they could no longer attack.

Reki, now!

Yes!

The crowd of people was to their advantage. Reki and Ursula ran hand-in-hand. Amidst the chaos, not even the inquisition could pursue them.

The two children somehow managed to reach the castle despite the overpacked crowd.

After pa.s.sing through the entrance and entering a suitable pa.s.sageway, they temporarily stopped.

Reki, Ursula.

But when the two were about to exhale in relief, a voice suddenly called out to them.

M-Mayor Randolph

Hey, Village Chief, its been a while!

Randolph appeared and greeted the two with a friendly smile.

For the time being, Im glad that the two of you are safe. However, the uproar will soon subside, and the Inquisition will be on the lookout. Nows the time to escape.

Of course, they had intended to do so from the beginning. However, they didnt quite expect such words from Mayor Randolph, of all people.

Therere horses in the back. If I recall correctly, youre able to ride a horse, right?

Yes! Thanks!

Whyd you go that far for us?

In contrast to Reki, who was truly glad, Ursula stared distrustfully at the smiling Randolph.

Because of my loyalty and conscience. After all, the two of you have risked your lives to fight for the village. Its only natural for me to repay that debt.

But if its only for that, one wouldnt usually go to such lengths

Did Ursula see it? As expected, youre truly sharp.

The moment Randolph showed up, she became convinced

the carriage didnt accidentally burst out in flames.

Instead, it was an arson.

I heard that Mayor Randolph used to be a gang leader and was a master of arson.

How embarra.s.sing. Its an ancient tale. Also, because its been so long, I made a mistake. I didnt expect the fire to be that big

Randolph, with a trouble, yet kind smirk, looked the same like always. Appearance-wise, he seemed like an ordinary, middle-aged man with a somewhat undependable atmosphere.

From eavesdropping on a conversation between Priest Nikolai and the former village chief regarding Randolphs past, but until that point, she found it difficult to believe.

Well, like I said, its been a long time. Ive since washed my hands off it. Even so, Im still the same silly gangsterwho risks his life for his silly pride. For someone like me, I think your hard work is a debt worth paying, even if it means risking my life Since I made a bunch of children fight, this is nothing

Its all thanks to you!

Yes, but by taking our sides, will the villagers be safe?

Hahaha, my skill hasnt dulled that much? I dont think Id be found out. The truth is, itd be best if we can shelter you like we did with Priest Kuroe, but now that the village has perished, its very much not possible Im sorry, it seems that you two have no choice but to run away.

The best possible solution for the village would be to hand them over to the Inquisition.

After all, being accused of letting a heretic escape wouldnt bode well for the village.

But apparently, despite the huge gamble he had taken, Randolph had no intention of resenting them.

I was going to chase after Priest Kuroe from the beginning, anyway! So, theres no problem!

Eh?

It wasnt that the thought never occurred to her, but the way Reki stated it as if it was the most natural thing in the world threw Ursula off the loop.

Painfully aware of her own powerlessness, Ursula tried to not even imagine that possibility.

If she met Kuroe once again, would he welcome her with a smile? She was unsure. At the same time, the notion of being rejected by him was more frightening than anything else.

Reki isnt going to give up on Priest Kuroe! Now that he has escaped, Ill chase after him, even if it means going to Mars!

B-but.

Besides, Priest Kuroe could only have gone to the demon country.

They were currently in the territory of the Sinclair Republicin other words, the land of Alsace, at the very edge of the Inquisitions reach. From here, they only needed to cross the mountain to complete their escape.

It was definitely a simple yet effective method, just like how some cunning thieves would camp near the border.

Now, lets go to the East!

But Sparda is on the West side? Ah, yes, Reki, let me tell you somethingabout the reason why you got revived. (Randolph)

Ursula was probably more intrigued about the reason than even Reki. After all, Reki didnt seem to realize that she had been dead.

I had a long-standing relations.h.i.+p with Priest Nikolai, and when I took you in, he told me a story. You may be of royal descent from Barbados. (Randolph)

Royalty?

Reki didnt seem to grasp the meaning at all. Regardless, Randolph went on.

Both Priest Nikolai and I thought that it was just a possibilityheck, a baseless rumor, even. But with your resurrection, Ive become convinced. Beowulfthe savage king of Barbados, once got defeated by the White Hero, Abel. However, there existed a famous legend about how hed only come back to life and continue to fight. If I remember correctly, its said that an immortal beast in the form of a wolf resides in his body. Therefore, Im sure that Reki possesses the same power.

Hmm, I dont understand at all.

While Reki stayed befuddled, Ursula was convinced of it.

Even if she were to lose her life, Reki had the ability to revive herself. Of course, I dont know if shell be able to revive herself next time, so do be careful.

Yes, I wont be careless anymore! Well, maybe!

You should depart. If you turn right at the end of this pa.s.sage, you can immediately get out from the back.

As she listened, Ursula pictured the internal structure of the castle she had become accustomed to in the past few days. As Randolph said, there was a door to the back if they were to turn right. Since the post-processing of the war was still going on, the Western Gate should be left open.

Therefore, once they locate the horse, they should be able to leave right away, without anything to stop them.

Thank you so much, Village Chief Randolph!

Thank you!

No, you shouldnt thank me. May G.o.d watch over the two of youalthough thats no longer necessary. As it is, you should be able to attain your wishes with your own strength.

Then, as they held hands, Reki and Ursula took a step forward.

Lets go, Reki, to Priest Kuroe.

Yes! No matter where he goes, we shall pursue him!

The two girlswho were once referred to as Barbados, Ibrahim, heathens, second-cla.s.s divinesembarked on a journey towards the wide, wide world with no strings attached.