The Far East Campaign.
That was the name the conflict in the Far East had finally come to bear. Since the Kingdom was situated in the West, it had been assumed they would remain uninvolved. However, matters were progressing in an unexpected direction.
"The reason I have gathered you all here is simple."
Inside the briefing room, Henrick had convened an emergency meeting to address the ongoing Far East Campaign.
"As you likely already know, the devastation from the conflict in the East is expanding rapidly. We have already intervened on several occasions, but the rate of escalation is remarkably faster than it was previously."
Lydia voiced the concern weighing on everyone’s mind.
"—The Ewell Empire. They’re pulling the strings, aren't they, Lieutenant Colonel?"
The Ewell Empire. The Far East Campaign had ignited as a minor conflict between small nations; it was not the sort of affair a major power like the Ewell Empire would typically join. However, the sheer speed at which the damage was spreading had led Military High Command to a grim conclusion.
Someone was intentionally prolonging and expanding the war from the shadows.
"...Military High Command is of the same mind. Consequently, the Special Selection Unit, Astral, has been tasked with an undercover mission into the Empire."
Henrick’s announcement took them all by surprise.
"Ray and Ainsworth. I want the two of you to lead the infiltration. The rest of the members will serve as backup."
Lydia’s inclusion made sense, but Abby, worried about Ray’s involvement, spoke up in protest.
"Lieutenant Colonel. Surely this is premature for Ray?"
"Your concern is justified, Garnet. I understand your position. However, Ray is more exceptional than anyone—he is already a mainstay of this unit. Furthermore, the other members have their own assignments. I’m leaving this to the two of them."
"...I understand."
Once the order was given, there was no room for further argument. Abby herself couldn't deny Ray's excellence. In fact, the synergy between Lydia and Ray was already near-perfect. She recognized that Ray was actually better at synchronizing with Lydia than she was herself.
Ray was a natural mimic. He possessed the skill to support others by matching their rhythm perfectly, along with the sheer mettle to remain composed even in life-or-death combat. Abby valued that prowess—so unbefitting of his age—more than anyone else did.
"Even with backup, it’s just the two of us, huh, Ray?"
"Master has various issues to contend with, after all. I’ll make sure to support you properly."
"Huh? You’ve certainly developed a cheeky mouth recently, haven't you...?"
"Ow!"
Before he could react, Ray felt Lydia’s fist connect with his head. He had become capable of dodging her strikes lately, but he still couldn't respond to the speed she used when she was being serious.
The other members of Astral had also realized it: Lydia and Ray shared a special bond. This was true, of course, in their capacity as sorcerers.
Ray’s growth had been particularly remarkable of late, likely because he possessed some of the most exceptional sorcery skills in the entire unit. While Lydia’s intensive training was a factor, there was something else about him that defied simple explanation.
And so, Ray and Lydia set out to infiltrate the Ewell Empire ahead of the others.
"I see it."
"Yeah. Finally."
After a long, swaying carriage ride, they arrived at the Ewell Empire. It was a major power located in the East, the polar opposite of the Kingdom. In recent decades, the Empire had been active in international exchange and trade, making it relatively easy to enter the country.
However, the Ewell Empire was well aware of this openness. They likely allowed it because they possessed enough strength to repel any hostile individuals or organizations that might attempt to infiltrate.
This nation was a magical powerhouse second only to the Arnold Kingdom. In truth, the debate over which was superior remained unsettled. While the Arnold Kingdom was lauded as the world’s preeminent magical powerhouse for being the birthplace of sorcery, the truth behind those claims remained a mystery to the public.
"We’re here."
"Yes."
Lydia and Ray cleared customs without issue and entered the Ewell Empire. Their official reason for visiting was sightseeing for a week. Posing as cousins, they passed through the massive gates without facing any rigorous questioning.
The Empire was guarded by a gargantuan, pure white outer wall unlike anything in the Kingdom. Ray had heard of it, but seeing it in person was a different matter entirely.
"It's massive."
"Yeah. It’s my first time here too, and it really is quite the sight."
The wall served as a demonstration of power—a silent declaration of the nation’s overwhelming strength.
"There are so many people."
"True. The population is larger than back home. And since this is the Imperial Capital, it’s the most crowded district. It’s to be expected."
The two continued their walk as they spoke. Lydia suggested they secure an inn first, and they made their way deeper into the city.
The buildings were made of brick, and the roads were neatly paved. While the Arnold Kingdom’s infrastructure was advanced, the Ewell Empire seemed to be its equal, if not its superior.
From Ray's perspective, the Empire felt even more developed than the Kingdom.
People perused the stalls lining the main street, and the sound of laughter from families filled the air. To a casual observer, it looked like a peaceful, prosperous nation. One would never imagine they were fueling the flames of the Far East Campaign.
"Ray? What's wrong?"
Lydia’s voice snapped him out of his thoughts. He had stopped in his tracks, staring at the street scene.
This was the first time Ray had ever stepped foot outside the Kingdom. He didn't even have clear memories of his own past, yet this scenery felt strangely familiar.
It was a sense of déjà vu.
Assuming it must be his imagination, he quickly answered her.
"No. It’s nothing."
He hurried after Lydia, his figure disappearing into the crowd.
"Ray, I’m going to handle the check-in. Wait here."
"Understood."
They had chosen one of the most famous inns in the Imperial Capital. Due to the season, the lobby was bustling with travelers.
While Lydia was busy with the paperwork, Ray sat in a chair toward the back, keeping an eye on their luggage. With nothing else to do, he simply watched the room.
"Ah...!"
A young girl tripped spectacularly right in front of him. The moment she began to fall, Ray was already moving.
He caught her before she hit the floor.
"Are you all right?"
"O-oh... yes. Thank you. I really thought I was going to hit the ground."
"It was no trouble. I’m glad you’re unhurt."
The girl was dressed in a vibrant red dress, and her silky silver hair shimmered as it moved. She wore a hat pulled low over her eyes, making it difficult to see her face clearly.
"Allow me to thank you properly. I appreciate your help."
She performed a graceful curtsy, lightly lifting the hem of her skirt.
"Please, don't mention it. I only did what anyone would do."
Lydia called out to him then, saying she had secured their room. Ray picked up their bags, preparing to head over to her.
"Well, I must be going."
"Of course. See you later—Ray."
The moment she spoke his name, Ray spun around. He hadn't told her who he was. And yet, she had clearly called him Ray.
He stood frozen amidst the noise of the lobby. For a heartbeat, it felt as if the world’s clock had stopped.
Who was that girl? Was it a hallucination?
It had felt far too real to be a dream, but Lydia called his name again, forcing him to set the mystery aside for now.
"Ray! Let's go!"
"Coming!"
He had no way of knowing what repercussions this encounter would have in the days to come.