INTERLUDE

THE DECISIONS WE MAKE

 

I was doing my best to make Ivy’s mom and Ivy forget about me being some kind of heavenly spirit messenger who came to save them. At the same time, my mind was also racing with ideas for the quickest way to send my big sister to a premature grave.

And, of course, I had no intention of making it any easier for her. For my one and only special big sister.

“Hey, is it possible miss Alicia is also a princess or of high nobility? And a famous one at that since she hides her appearance with that mask.” Mars’s head was running rampant with useless ideas again.

But Prowl’s dire expression from the previous news of me turning out to be a princess had already taken a huge toll on his mental health.

It’s not like I could reveal to them that Alicia is the daughter of the True Hero and the True Demon Lord. Making her of both elf royalty and the highest demon royalty.

I could still remember how happy I was the day I learned that Alicia and I were in a way cousin sisters.

But it’s not like I could tell them that.

Right. I'm certain that after learning her identity, they would most definitely and happily take a jump from a cliff rather than face the truth. That’s why it's better I give them a more digestible answer.

"Alicia is my friend—nothing less and nothing more," I stated, without pausing to shut their mouths.

“⸺Did I miss something? Were you discussing something important?”

A soft voice emanated from behind me, sending shivers down my spine.

I turn back quickly, “Of course, everything is fine under my watch. And there’s nothing important we were discussing. Nothing at all.” I made sure to clearly emphasize that there was nothing special happening to Alicia who was looking with awe at me.

Alicia was still wearing her mask as she teleported to this place holding Nia’s hand.

I glared at Hana warning her to not tell Alicia anything. But I could see her eyes lit up.

Tell me you didn’t hear anything.

“⸺Umu.” Alicia did not doubt me at all.

And while taking a brief look around, “I see were you able to rescue everyone including Ivy’s mom.” Alicia asked happily looking at the mother and daughter pair hugging.

“Of course, we rescued ever...yon…” My mind did feel proud till that moment that I was able to keep my promise to Ivy.

But then I could not truly bring myself to say anything after seeing Nia. She looked healthy and not in any kind of physical pain.

But the tears and dirt on her clothes I could tell she had a rough fight.

“I am so glad everyone is finally safe. Sieb is gone for good.” Nia delivered the news thinking that it would uplift everyone’s depressed face.

But it did not work, making her even more anxious than us now.

“Nia, it's about your little sister.” Prowl as promised was determined to be the one to tell Nia about what happened here.

“What about her? What happened? Was she here?” Nia could not calculate what could have transpired here. But she could definitely see the missing roof from where the cool wind came in.

.

“I see. Lenya said that.” Nia said, her voice choked with emotion.

“I am sorry. I couldn’t do anything to make her come back.” Prowl asked for forgiveness as he failed to help a friend.

No one could have been sure whether they would get to see Lenya again or find a way to save her.

Mars and Ivy looked with guilt at Nia as well. Nia who had willingly put her life in danger several times to keep them safe. But in return, they failed to do anything for her.

“Don’t look so sad. Today is the day we got our freedom back from that damned organization.” Nia cheered as she walked in front of everyone with a smile.

“But Nia….” Ivy called out.

“Don’t worry I am not forcing myself little Ivy.” Nia said rubbing Ivy’s hair. “I was a fool to believe the organization’s words that at least he would let my sister be if I listened to him. I was desperate. I had given up on any thought of saving myself or being able to leave here alive. But now I am not afraid to hope for the future anymore. I will find my sister and save her. After all, I want to tell and show her all about the snow fairy I found.” Nia said cheerfully looking at everyone.

Her cheeks were swollen with grief of missing her chance to see her sister again. But at the same time, she looked more hopeful compared to the look she had on our first encounter.

I suspiciously looked at Alicia knowing who Nia was referring to as the snow fairy. Of course, Alicia herself had no inkling about it and clapped to see everyone happy.

I know it’s not Nia’s fault, knowing how Alicia is exceptionally beautiful. Even my family couldn’t help but mistook her as one of the great spirits when the World Tree accepted her.

That’s why it's Alicia’s fault for not being careful. She shouldn’t come crying later to me if another nickname for her starts rolling around.

Nia stared at Alicia for a while. In her village, the villagers would dedicate themselves to gaining the blessing of the snow fairy. And they did it with utmost devotion generation after generation.

And Nia had already made up her mind as she stood in front of Alicia and got on her knees surprising everyone.

“I have already seen a glimpse of your power. I have nothing to offer in return. But I am willing to do anything for you no matter the nature of work. I've come to realize that my hands have sunk too deep in blood. Please, help me to save my little sister Lenya.” Lenya uttered as if making a wish.

It was because I could tell, that people are naturally drawn to Alicia after witnessing her power. Not because of how powerful of a mage she is but because it gives them hope, even in the bleakest moment that their wish can be fulfilled.

“Nia. What are you…?” Prowl, Ivy, and Mars were unable to understand Nia’s actions.

“Alright.” Alicia's one word brought silence as if no one were allowed to interrupt this singular moment.

They were unaware of her position or power, yet no one dared to stop her either.

“I will grant your wish. But in return, I want one thing from you.” Alicia said.

Even I had no idea, what she was going to ask. Will she enlist them to help look for the person she was searching for?

But I don’t think I have ever seen Alicia getting someone else involved in her matter.

Even though Nia was the one to put the conditions on her wish, she gulped as she watched and silently waited for Alicia to speak.

Alicia putting her hand on Nia’s face said, “In return wipe out the entire Belladonna organisation from existence for me.”

***

 

ALICIA ASCALON ASHBORN

Early morning, we started making preparations to leave Count Viktor’s mansion.

Fortunately, we were able to return to the mansion right before dawn. Since Ivy had put most of the guards to sleep, they didn’t even realize when we left and came back into our room with the teleportation spell. All the damage to the mansion was already fixed thanks to Hana’s powers.

So, we had one less thing to worry about.

Unable to bring ourselves to go back to sleep again. Regis and I packed our things and cooked some quick meals together and packed them for our journey ahead.

Of course, Hana was an exception and she fell asleep right after she touched the bed.

After cleaning ourselves in a bath and getting into fresh clothes, we waited near the mansion gate for the coachman to bring the carriage.

We greeted Count Viktor goodbye and thanked him for his hospitality.

As soon as we three got on the carriage, we were on our road again to the Hart Kingdom.

We were now headed straight to the palace of the Hart Kingdom, with only a two-day journey remaining.

The inside of the carriage had enough space and an expandable seat for the three of us to spend a night inside. And the coachman was responsible for camping outside and keeping guard.

As for the fate of Nia, Prowl, Ivy, and Mars. I had my plans already in motion.

After we left, Nia was to leave a secret tip letter at Count Viktor’s office table informing him about the location of the Belladonna organization secret base we destroyed.

The Count would have no choice but to verify the credibility of such suspicious information. He will then quickly ride with his knights to confirm the place with his soldiers, only to find a destroyed base.

Inevitably, chancing upon the captive people and the dead bodies of the assassins. All being well some of them were still alive who were caught in Regis’s random explosions.

They would be captured by the count and interrogated.

The Count with no other person coming forward to take the credit would have no choice but to take the trophy for himself to hide that fact the organization was managing a secret base in his territory.

Of course, the place was valuable because it was laced with secret documents about nobility. We made sure to leave the traces and hints so that they would be easily discoverable.

Making him unable to abandon it even if he wanted to.

Finally, to take the credit he would have no choice but to take the victims as proof and welcome them into his domain to settle down.

Of course, I had other plans as well if this one had not succeeded in taking care of the victims.

Al and I tried several ways to find any trace of the teleportation circle used on Lenya. But since the teleportation was not used on any object, but on the transfer subject itself, all traces vanished along with herself.

A single trace would have at least helped me to predict the direction in which Nia’s little sister could be. But I was met with no luck.

As for Nia who wanted to work for me to save her sister. I wanted her to develop her aural arts on her own.

I am sure the Belladonna organization will show its face soon to Nia. Isn’t it a rule for an assassin organization to kill the deserters to safeguard their secrets?

That’s why I want Nia to be strong and ready when it happens.

As for Lenya, I was unable to turn my head away from it. No matter how much I tried I couldn’t forget about it.

Was it because now I had my own little sister, and because of my little cousin sister I had in my previous life?

Or, was it because I failed for the first time to get what I wanted completely?

I turned to Regis as if she might be the one to know the answer I was looking for.

"Regis, do you think there was anything I could have done to save Nia's sister?"

***

 

NIA

“Are you three sure you want to come with me?” I asked looking back at Prowl, Mars, and Ivy who were following me.

“Where else would I go? I know no one except you all. And I want to atone for whatever wrong I have done by helping others and getting revenge on the organization. So, I will fight with you. Who knows maybe I will find somewhere I belong on this adventure as well?” Prowl as usual already had a set goal in his mind.

“Mars you still have your grandparents.” I asked this time Mars specifically.

“They didn’t even recognize me until I showed them all the proof they needed that I was their grandson. But they did not want me to spend my life looking after them but asked me to go and learn something I can do and be happy.” Mars explained.

We couldn't help but laugh, remembering the time he had to show his birthmarks on his butt to his grandparents in front of everyone. They couldn't recognize him after not seeing him for so long.

“And Ivy you have got your mother. There’s really no need to keep following us. You have done nothing wrong and can go back and live a happy life with her.” I wanted most of all for Ivy to go back to her mother. I know how many sleepless nights she had spent crying while missing her.

“You all are like my second family. I have already talked with her and got all the hugs and kisses I wanted. And now I want to be like someone. So, my mother said I should do what I want. Maybe I could get to meet her again after this.” Ivy said excitedly holding her hands together with her dreams flashing on top of her head.

“By any chance is that the elf princess,” Mars called out without thinking how Ivy felt making her shy away.

But a small silence reminded them of their mistake as we laughed.

“I am just glad we all still have our heads on our necks. So, let’s make the most out of it.” I told them as we continued to walk through the forest.

I suppose I just have to continue looking after them like always.

“What did miss Alicia ask you to do?” Ivy asked looking at me.

“It was to go to the Stark kingdom and find someone called Caige and Maia and explain our situation to them. And register ourselves as the members of Sierra Clan and raise our levels.”

“I didn’t expect her to be an adventure clan leader as well even if I have never heard that clan name before. But just looking at the large bag of coins she so generously offered to us. She must be loaded. I guess we will never have anything to worry about on our journey or buying new adventure gear.” Mars said rubbing his face against the fine leather of the dimensional bag they received from Alicia for their finances.

“But Nia I am glad you are confident in saving your little sister more than ever. And I will do my best to help you.” Ivy and everyone wanted me to reunite with my sister.

“Honestly, I thought you wouldn’t be able to take it if you learned about your sister. But seeing you strong like this, you have as always exceeded my expectations, Nia.” Prowl said to me.

“Of course, I am sad. I can only blame myself. But I know now that I can save her. I know my little sister will come running to me the moment when I tell her about the snow fairy. It was our dream to find her.” I said to them.

“Nia you have been using that name a lot. Are you by any chance referring to miss Alicia by that name?” Prowl asked looking at me.

“Hey don’t tell me you saw what she looks like under that mask.” Mars was surprised.

“Yeah, I want to know as well. Was she really able to defeat the Zehn master all on her own? Her magic power is overwhelmingly strong.” Even Ivy was curious.

“It would be pathetic to even call it a fight. Even before the fight began Sieb lost once he knew he no longer could win. From the moment I laid eyes on her, even when I thought I was going to die. she seemed like a being from beyond this world with her magic.”

“Is she really that strong and beautiful if you call her a fairy?”

The three were patiently waiting for my answer. Seeing their stupefied faces, I couldn't help but chuckle.

With a smile, I began walking ahead.

“I am not telling. It will be my secret for a while.”

***

 

HART KINGDOM – WESTERN PLAINS

In a quaint town where the fertile soil softened with just a brief drizzle.

The town was close to the western coast, flourishing with both trade and agriculture.

Despite the low population, the central market was always bustling with activity, handling the essential needs of the townspeople.

However, today was different.

Under a gloomy sky with dark clouds, an unusual stillness engulfed the market. It was simply empty.

Shop doors were closed, and windows that could have welcomed the cool sea breeze inside the houses were shut tight.

THUMP….THUMP…

Only the rumbling sound of slow-moving footsteps echoed on the ground.

These were not just any ordinary orcs that mistakenly traveled to this location. They were clad in armor from top to bottom and wielded huge weapons that could split a skull with a single touch.

This was no routine visitation; a sense of foreboding gripped the town as the orcs advanced with an unsettling purpose.

After forming a line, they scattered in unison at a given signal, resembling a battalion in motion.

Without any thought, the y bashed their heavy body against the walls and doors of the houses making a breakthrough.

But not a single shout or scream came except for the wreckage caused due to the collision.

Unexpectedly the entire town was devoid of its population.

After making a mess out of almost half the houses in the vicinity the orcs banded again and talked to each other.

Unfortunately, for any human, it would have been impossible to understand their language and could only find them agitated from what they discovered.

Only a second later, a whizz sound went past them. As the orcs noticed an arrow land on the ground with its tip covered in green.

Simultaneously one of the orcs in the group with his head pierced falls to the ground.

The hole between his eyes only left a big pool of orcish blood flowing on the ground.

Before the orcs could react or take cover, a full barrage of arrows mutilated their bodies.

Those who managed to enter houses or sustained only minor injuries during the attack took cover within the buildings.

It had only been a moment that the arrows stopped attacking them. But then a foul smell hit their nose.

After trying to locate the reason for the stench in the house.

They reached a pile of barrels suspiciously kept close to the window. On opening the lid, some found gunpowder and some found a mixture of explosive liquid.

A horn blared, and the faint patter of small footsteps echoed as they hurriedly ran away from the place.

The orcs roared in anger, yet simultaneously, a plume of smoke emerged from the center of the barrel.

Before the orcs could realize their mistake, the refuge they had sought transformed into a bomb.

In the next second, explosions tore through the air, sending shockwaves that reverberated with the destructive force.

All the houses where the orcs had taken shelter were now burning with a chaotic flame.

With the ensuing silence, another drizzle commenced, as if a relief to quell the flames. In the end, not even ashes remained.

.

"Reporting, Princess." Two knights, clad in gleaming armor, stood before a young girl seated on an intricately adorned armchair.

“You may proceed.” She said, prompting them to deliver their report.

“The archers, concealed on the rooftops, executed a flawlessly timed attack, eliminating the majority of the orc forces.”

“As for the infantry team, they swiftly marked the houses where the orcs hid themselves, ignited the explosives, and successfully eradicated the remaining orc forces.” The second knight reported.

The two knights beamed with satisfaction at their triumph.

"Were there any casualties?" inquired the princess.

"None reported. Your plan worked, Princess."

"Perhaps we do stand a chance."

“Do not let your guard down. Most probably what we took down was simply a strayed small group of their army. We cannot rely on this tactic again and again. We still do not have any information about the total size of their army, their weapons, or what their leader is capable of.” The princess explained.

“Princess, we have discussed and we want you to return to the palace. There is no need for a princess to be on the frontlines.” The knight said with a bit of hesitation.

“Are you by any chance suggesting that I run by myself.” The princess stood up as she moved closer to the outline map of the area.

Trying to figure out the timing of the enemy troops to attack. With the current situation, it was given she was restless.

“Princess, the scout team we sent yesterday still has not returned. It is possible they were caught. And there are even rumors around that the enemy is one of the demon lord himself.”

“And it will take around a week for the reinforcements to either come from the south or the east. We know it is no longer safe here. We will do our utmost to stall the enemy while you can prepare to defend yourself at the capital.” Another knight added.

“I did not give up when there was a stampede a few years back. Nor I am going to do it now. There would be no capital left if we lost here. If any of the knights are scared to continue fighting they are free to leave.” The princess said with her teeth clenched tight.

“Princess, you may not concern yourself with the loyalty of the knights. We will follow you anywhere and even to our deaths.” The two knights bowed regretting the insolence they had shown to the princess’s resolve.

“What I want is for you not to die? Can you promise me that?” The princess asked.

The knights stayed silent. Even they knew what danger awaited them in the upcoming war. The war could break out anytime as the enemy advanced further and they take the first step on the coast.

Once the princess heard no response, she couldn’t help but sit down on the chair with a dismissive look and blame her own incapability.

“Please forgive me for putting you in a spot like this. I must be too much stressed and should probably rest. You all are dismissed for now.”

The two knights leave and the princess slumped on her seat with a long sigh.

She was scared of losing the war. Losing her kingdom. Losing her family if she fails.

And most of all a safe place she wanted to build for the person she had been waiting for all her life.

“I can’t become a strong god in the eyes of that child if I give up so soon.”

***

 

MIDDLEMERE SEA

The vast body of water separating the Human Continent from the Demon Continent was split into three sections.

The Northemere Sea. The Middlemere Sea. The Southemere Sea.

In the central region of this huge water body, the Middlemere Sea, numerous colossal ships, each accommodating hundreds of orcs, sailed in unison.

Following this procession were thousands of swift battle-ready boats capable of sailing on any current despite the high tides that made navigation impossible.

After days of rowing, the shores of the Human Continent finally came into view.

Apart from the ships that appeared as floating fortresses. The orcs themselves were a fearsome sight, their bodies marked with tribal tattoos and adorned with crude armor made from the bones and hides of formidable monsters.

Mutilated human corpses dangled conspicuously from the ship, as silent witnesses to the ruthless havoc wrought by the orcs. Along their journey, the orc army pillaged every human vessel unfortunate enough to cross their path.

And on the largest ship in the orc fleet was the formidable figure of Tusk, the Orc Demon Lord. His eyes had a black gleam and wore dark armor. And his long tusks protruded from his lower jaw like deadly weapons.

In one hand, Tusk wielded a massive, wickedly serrated axe and the other hand bore a cruel gauntlet adorned with spikes.

“My lord, some of the boats went ahead of us but have still not returned.” An orc reported to Tusk.

"Does it matter? A few missing vessels won't diminish our strength. We've already reached our destination." Tusk dismissed the concern with an arrogant wave.

"And when do you plan to launch the attack, my lord?" inquired the orc general.

“The very next day, when the sun sets and they least expect it.” Tusk declared, his tone dripping with contempt for his enemy.

“But….” The general hesitated under a small qualm with the fact that they planned to attack the weak humans under the cover of darkness.

“I want to attack them when they are at their weakest and most vulnerable. When they lose all hope the moment they see our army setting foot on their land. That is what I desire.” Tusk asserted, his voice carrying the ruthless determination of a conqueror.

Tusk walks forward and jumps at the prow of the ship facing his army to address them.

“Even if they drop their weapons and surrender and beg for their lives. My axe will only move to sever their necks. Just as they have spewed hatred and contempt upon us for centuries. I want them to fear me with the same intensity.”

As the Demon Lord's words echoed across the orcish horde, his followers erupted in a frenzied cacophony of support, their fervent screams and bloodthirsty slogans to slaughter the human filled the air like a chorus of impending doom.

“I want to make them feel unsafe in their own lands. Let their homes become their prisons, their cities reduced to rubble beneath the relentless onslaught of our wrath. It's time for humans to face their carnage.”

***

 

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