It was the eve of the Lion King Festival.
For the members of the Executive Committee, it was a day to take a breath; for the students selected as representatives, it was a holiday to conserve their strength.
"I think I might finally be getting the hang of it, just a little bit."
"Kyū!"
Ren had returned to the forest once again to train with his new technique. Kukuru, who had accompanied him in his bag, replied while floating around him.
Ren finished his training with the Flame Magic Sword for the day, then checked his bracelet while standing beside the monsters he had slain. Dealing with the creatures during his practice had allowed him to accumulate a fair amount of Mastery.
The Iron Magic Sword was nearing a level-up as well. Unlike the Great Tree Magic Sword, the Iron Magic Sword had required a high amount of Mastery from the start. His cheeks relaxed naturally at the thought of its progress.
I wonder if the Iron Magic Sword will evolve soon.
He wondered what its new name would be. Just imagining it made his spirits rise.
However, that was enough for today. A considerable amount of time had passed since he left the city, and it would be disastrous if he were injured right before the festival. Ren gathered Kukuru and returned to Io’s side.
Nearly two hours had passed since sunrise. Ren tied up the monsters he had hunted, hoisted them up, and mounted Io. The horse began walking as usual, completely unfazed by the weight.
They left the forest and proceeded along the highway. After returning to Erendil, Ren intended to stop by the Guild before heading back to the mansion. It was then that a voice called out to him.
"Hey there, Ren."
It was Estel. She stood on the main street amidst the morning bustle.
"Good morning. Are you finished with work again?"
Ren thought to himself that even though Erendil was quite large, they seemed to run into each other often for some reason.
"No, I’m off duty today, so I thought I’d get some fresh air. The Imperial Capital is crowded, so I came to Erendil, where there are at least a few less people."
Even so, Erendil was exceptionally busy today. Still, compared to the Capital, it was likely much better.
"What about you, Ren? From the looks of it, you just came back from swinging your sword outside the city?"
"Yes, something like that—"
"Kyū!"
"—Sorry. She’s one of ours."
Estel looked at Kukuru as she poked her face out from the opening of the bag.
"One of yours? Ho... a spirit beast Ratatosk. How rare."
"A lot happened, and she ended up becoming part of the family."
As he glossed over the details, Estel’s interest turned toward Kukuru. Thinking this was a good opportunity, Ren watched as Kukuru sniffed Estel’s fingertip and began rubbing her face against it.
"Kyū?"
"Haha, what a lovable little thing."
Estel began stroking Kukuru’s head. Given that the spirit beast showed no caution, she clearly had a good eye for people.
"You mentioned you were off duty, but what kind of work do you usually do?"
"I check the requests that come into the Lion Holy Chancel and manage the knights. For someone with the title of Director, I do quite a bit of field work."
"So that’s why you’re usually so busy."
Estel let out a sigh. "Even though I’ve returned to the country, I’m so buried in work that I can’t even find time for my husband."
Even a Director needed a break. Ren could understand why she would want to walk through the city like this.
I wonder if her husband is in the Capital?
He could tell from her attitude that she had a good relationship with him. Yet, the fact that she was walking alone on her day off suggested Ren’s guess might be right—or perhaps their schedules simply didn't align.
"Fuwaah." Estel let out a yawn. "Even though I’m off duty, I have to go to the Chancel in the afternoon. By the way, Ren, how has your sword been since then?"
"It’s been so-so."
"...It seems there’s been some change in your state of mind."
"How did you know?"
"Unlike the other day, you have a brighter expression. The fact that you answered without hesitation is another sign."
Ren gave a wry smile and scratched his cheek. In fact, partly because of the Flame Magic Sword, he had been in better spirits. Satisfied by Ren’s reaction, Estel checked her watch and began walking toward the Hanging Garden to return to the Imperial Capital.
Turning her back to Ren, she said, "I’ll be going now. Keep at it, young man."
"Yes. Please get back to the Capital safely."
"Hahaha! Who do you think you’re talking to!" Estel called out over her shoulder and gave a light wave. After a few steps, still without stopping, she added, "The essence of the Strong Sword is 'Star-Slayer, Gaze upon the Black,' just as the Lion King chanted on the battlefield. If you wish to become a Sword Saint, you would do well to strive never to forget that."
Ren watched her retreating figure intently, ruminating on those words. As Estel walked away alone through the bustling main street, she whispered with amusement, "What a mysterious boy. Every time I see him, he’s strong enough to be a different person."
At the beginning of the new week, Chronoa looked out over the students gathered in the Great Auditorium.
"As students of this academy, enjoy yourselves with moderation! Do not forget to show gratitude to those who have worked hard for this festival!"
Immediately after addressing the student body, she waved her staff. The doors leading out of the auditorium opened all at once, and students stood up with high spirits.
"Off you go! Good luck, everyone!"
Voices sounding like cheers echoed throughout the hall. During the festival starting today, venues established all over the Imperial Capital would be bustling. In particular, the Imperial Capital Great Colosseum, where the Martial Arts Tournament was to be held, would be packed.
From the second-year seats, Kaito Leonall stood. Near Ren and Lithia, Sera Riohard and Wayne also stood up. As representatives of the academy, they headed toward their respective venues with heads held high, drawing a massive amount of attention. Today, not a single student remained in the auditorium to chatter.
The location changed to a spot right next to the district where the learning institutions were lined up. The plaza there was usually home to student stalls, but for the festival, it held the headquarters for each school.
"This will be our headquarters," Radius said.
Though it was a simple building, the soundproofing was excellent. It was equipped with furniture and a small kitchen, making it highly functional—essentially a small private house.
Once everyone had taken a seat, Radius continued. "That said, the workload won't be more than what we had during the preparation period. There should be a fair amount of leeway. From today, we will focus on our roles behind the scenes."
He explained that students might come by with questions or the academy might send updates, but since supplies were already on-site, there was little to do.
"I will be stepping out for a bit. Ren, I want you at the venue for the Martial Arts Tournament. The three of you other than Ren and myself will work here."
Security in the district was perfect. Because Radius was present, Knights of the Lion Holy Chancel were in the vicinity, and people from House Ignat were likely hidden nearby as well.
"Should I escort you part of the way?" Ren asked.
"Don't worry about it. I have a plan, so I’ve decided to take Estel with me. She should be waiting near the plaza."
"Ah, then it’s fine."
"Ren, you were planning to talk with Ulysses and the others, weren't you? It should be easier for you to work over there. I’ve prepared a memo of things to do at the colosseum."
Having said that, Radius quickly left the headquarters. Ren watched him go and then looked at Mirei. She immediately sensed what he wanted to say.
"You can leave things here to us, nya. There shouldn't be any problem with Ren-dono doing the work at the Colosseum alone, so don't worry, nya."
"Got it. Then I’ll leave the headquarters to you."
"Mhm. Leave it to me, nya."
The two young ladies looked at Ren and smiled.
"Take care. Be careful."
"We'll be here, so call us anytime if you run into trouble!"
After exchanging words with them, Ren placed his extra luggage on the shelf. He said "I’m off" once more and went outside. As he walked across the plaza, he noticed a slight sweat appearing on his skin.
"It’s already summer, huh..."
It felt like it had been spring just the other day. He let out a chuckle, his steps toward the colosseum lighter than usual.
The Imperial Capital Great Colosseum was a massive stone structure with colonnades spanning its outer perimeter. The spectators were already excited, as the first match was about to begin. To match the summer heat, the stands were enveloped in passion.
Ren was in the passage leading to the stage on the first floor. Nearby, a preparation room had been set up for the Executive Committee and faculty. Ren, who had just left that room, was observing the representatives. He turned his attention to a single male student sitting on a bench.
Even for a boy as courageous as Wayne, he was nervous about representing a prestigious school at such a massive event. This was especially true since his turn was the opening match. Sera was likely preparing as well, as she was nowhere to be seen.
"...I just have to do what I can. I’ll show them the results of all the hard work I’ve done since leaving the village," Wayne muttered.
Ren looked at him, went back into the preparation room, and opened a wooden box. Inside was a magic tool that kept bottled drinks chilled. Distributing these wasn't originally Ren's job, but he picked one up and returned to Wayne’s side.
"You should drink something before you go."
"Ren? Why are you here?"
"Part of my work on the committee, I suppose."
Wayne took the drink and drained it all at once. "It's so cold." He seemed to relax slightly.
"That’s good," Ren said.
Wayne looked at him and asked, "...I want to ask something. How strong are the students from the other schools?"
Ren was stunned for a moment, but when he realized Wayne was serious, he adjusted his tone. "Every school chose their best, so they won't be weak."
While the Imperial Military Academy stood out, every school in the Capital provided high-level education.
"But," Ren continued, "if you look around, it might help calm your nerves."
Wayne looked around and understood. The other students were stealing glances at Wayne, looking just as nervous as he was.
"...I'm not the only one, huh."
Because Wayne was from the prestigious Imperial Military Academy, the other students couldn't help but feel intimidated by him.
"I’ve calmed down a bit."
"Good. That's the spirit." Ren stood up as he checked the time.
Just as Ren turned his back, Wayne asked, "Do you think there’s anyone among the representatives stronger than you, Ren?"
Ren stopped. He remained silent for a few seconds. Despite the surrounding noise, a heavy silence seemed to settle between them. The moment was remarkably similar to when Lithia had been asked a similar question by Sera.
Ren spoke over his shoulder. "I won't know that until I’ve fought them. But..." He turned around to face Wayne and smiled. "I have no intention of losing to anyone. Not since I found people I want to protect."
With those words, Wayne was certain. Ren had acquired strength incomparable to that of the previous summer. Wayne instinctively realized that Ren's true ability was far beyond what was required for a festival like this.
Ren finally left his side. Shortly after, the staff called Wayne for the opening match. He slapped both his cheeks hard and headed for the arena, met immediately by thunderous cheers.
"Yo."
As Ren was returning to the preparation room, a sweat-drenched Kaito called out to him.
"Thanks. Wayne was pretty nervous, wasn't he?"
Ren noticed Kaito was already soaked despite not having fought yet. "I assume you were warming up, but isn't that a bit overkill?"
"I can't help it! My whole body's just throbbing with excitement!"
"As long as you're okay..."
Ten minutes later, the referee’s voice boomed from the arena. Mixed with the cheers, Ren heard Wayne's name announced as the winner of the opening match.
Ren had a meeting with a guest from the Sky Continent. Through Ulysses, a message had arrived, and they were to meet at the colosseum. Time passed as he did some light work, and it was now lunchtime. Ren finished a meal and headed to the guest seating ten minutes before the scheduled time.
The guest area was strictly guarded. As he approached, a Regular Knight stopped him.
"Guest seating is beyond this point. You look like a student, but do you have an appointment?"
"I am here at the request of Master Ulysses Ignat."
"Marquis Ignat?"
Several Knights of the Lion Holy Chancel nearby approached. "Ren-dono," they said, acknowledging him. The Regular Knight stepped back in surprise.
Ren understood what Ulysses had meant about making things easy. A Black Knight from the Chancel told the other guard, "The Lion Holy Chancel guarantees his identity."
Ren was led inside. "Judging by the reaction, the Chancel holds a higher standing than the Regular Knights," Ren noted.
"That is correct. We must pass an officer-level exam."
They walked past various guards to a door where Edgar was waiting. Ren parted ways with the Chancel knight there. Edgar immediately opened the door.
Inside was a luxurious room with a perfect view of the arena. Three men were there: Ulysses Ignat, Lezard, and a handsome, dark-skinned man Ren didn't recognize.
"Sorry to keep you waiting."
"Don't be silly. You're a bit early, as usual."
Ulysses beckoned him to the table. Ren walked over to the guest from the Sky Continent. The man was dressed in vibrant clothes, his muscular arms lean and toned—the clear mark of a former knight turned merchant. He wore gold and jewels, but his elegance prevented it from looking gaudy. He looked like desert royalty, radiating a charm that suggested he had captivated many with a single glance.
"Marquis Ignat, is he the rumored Ren Ashton?" the man asked.
"Yes. This is Ren."
The man stood up, taller even than Ulysses. "I am Richter Leonhardt. I am a Count in my country. It has been twenty years since I last visited Leomel."
"Twenty years?"
"I may look young, but I am over sixty," Richter said with a smile.
Ren was stunned; the man looked to be in his late twenties or early thirties. Seeing Ren's surprise, Richter laughed. "I am a Shelgad. Do you know of us?"
"The people of the Sky Continent. I believe you have double the lifespan of those on the ground."
Richter seemed pleased. He extended his hand. "I come from the Shelgad Empire. My skin color is due to my mixed heritage."
They sat down, Ren taking the seat next to Lezard. "I was looking forward to your story," Richter said. "Tell me about everything, starting from Clausel."
Ren recounted his journey, starting from his first battle to his escape with Lithia. Richter’s eyes sparkled throughout the tale.
"You seem to love stories like this, Lord Leonhardt."
"I adore them. Many on the Sky Continent favor heroic tales. My mother was from the southern Martel Continent, where people are very passionate. But the Shelgads themselves have always loved legends, ever since the hero who saved our country."
Richter told the legend of a hero who had slain a Phoenix that had lost its reason and begun attacking the people. The hero had refused all wealth and fame, asking only for a single small bottle of the Phoenix’s blood.
"The hero stayed for a short time and then left unnoticed, never giving his name. The current Emperor is a powerhouse who follows that hero’s example, reigning at Rank 4 of the Sword King Rankings."
Ren thought of his own ancestors as he resumed his story. When he finished, Richter seemed satisfied. "A fine tale. I would like the House of Leonhardt to remain friends with the Houses of Clausel and Ashton."
As they talked, Richter mentioned a painful succession dispute in the Shelgad Empire from ten years ago. It had been a tragic conflict between two brothers that resulted in both their deaths and the dissolution of the Grand Ducal House. Richter had retired from the knighthood because he felt he had failed in his duty during that time. His father-in-law, a merchant from the Martel Continent, had encouraged him to serve his country in a new way.
"I’ve also been aided by the previous Marquis Ignat," Richter added.
Ulysses cleared his throat to shift the mood back to the festival. "Look, Kaito is about to fight."
Ren watched as Kaito dominated his opponent, followed by Sera, who won her match with fluid, graceful swordplay. The crowd was captivated by the strength of the Heroic Ducal Houses.
Soon, it was time for Ren to return to his duties. The festival had only just begun.
Later that evening, Ren was walking Fiona to the girls’ dormitory. Lithia was busy with another task, so it was just the two of them.
"Thank you for walking me back," Fiona said, smiling in the red glow of the sunset.
"Don't worry about it."
Fiona was thrilled. She had never dreamed she would get to spend time alone with Ren during the festival. I wish this could last forever, she thought.
As they walked, they passed a crowded street. Fiona unconsciously pinched the hem of Ren’s clothes, then pulled away, startled. "I-I'm sorry!"
"It's fine. It's easy to get separated here."
Fiona remembered doing the same thing back at the suspension bridge. She felt a small swell of happiness, though she worried their relationship hadn't progressed much.
"Hey, beautiful lady!" a boisterous woman at a stall called out. "How about a sweet for you and your academy boyfriend?"
Fiona froze. Boyfriend? She looked at the woman, who winked at her.
"I’m not exactly her boyfriend," Ren clarified, though he smiled politely.
"Ho... you looked so close I was sure. Come again!" the shopkeeper shouted. As they walked away, the woman mouthed to Fiona, Give it your best!
Fiona felt a pang of disappointment that Ren had denied it so quickly, even though she knew it was just his personality. Trying to be bold, she asked, "Ren-kun, what kind of woman do you like?"
"Pardon?" Ren stopped, looking dumbfounded. Fiona giggled at his reaction.
"I... I haven't really thought about it," Ren admitted as they resumed walking. He agonized over the question for a moment. "A kind person, maybe?"
Fiona smiled. "That is important."
"Also," Ren added, scratching his cheek with a wry smile, "someone who would forgive me for always swinging my sword."
Fiona’s heart softened. When they reached the dormitory, Ren mentioned he had a meeting on a magic ship later.
"Wait," Fiona said as Ren turned to leave. She stepped close to him, looking up. "Your tie is crooked."
She reached out and straightened it. Her heart was pounding, but she forced a smile. "Is that okay? It's my first time doing that for someone."
"I-I think it's fine! Thank you!" Ren stammered.
Fiona’s face turned bright red. "Ren-kun, thank you for walking me! Be careful on your way home!" She practically ran inside the dormitory. Once in her room, she collapsed against the door, her heart racing. She looked in the mirror at her flushed face. "What was I thinking...!"
That night, a gala for the nobility was held on a magic ship. After the greetings were over, Ren and Lithia stood by a large window with drinks.
"Look!" Lithia pointed at the night sky. In the distance, the peak of Roses Kaitas was visible. Even at night, the mist of the Cage of Time seemed to glow with a faint, holy light.
"It's beautiful," Ren said.
"It has a quality similar to my Holy Magic," Lithia noted.
They talked about the history of the sanctuary and the pilgrims who used to climb the stone stairs. Richter Leonhardt joined them, looking out at the seal.
"A crystal of power beyond human understanding," Richter remarked. "I would like to visit it with you two someday."
After Richter left, Lezard joined them. He mentioned that on the sixth day of the festival, a choir from the Holy Land would go near the sanctuary to pray for the souls of the fallen.
"I'd like to hear that," Lithia said.
"You two should go," Lezard encouraged.
As they prepared to return to the mansion, Ren saw Werlich working late in the docks on the Lemuria. The dwarf waved at them, looking as energetic as ever.
"Don't fall asleep in the bath, Ren," Lithia teased as they headed home.
In the middle of the night, Ren found himself in a dark, quiet space. A bell was ringing—ding, ding—and he couldn't tell if he was standing or sitting.
Two crimson lights appeared in the darkness, growing brighter. He felt drawn toward them, but then everything was enveloped in a dazzling light.
Ren woke to the morning sun. He felt like he had seen a dream, but he couldn't remember it. It left a strange knot in his heart.
He got dressed and met Lithia in the hallway. She looked equally preoccupied.
"Lady Lithia, is something wrong?"
"It's nothing... just a dream I can't quite remember."
Ren’s eyes widened. "You too?"
They stood close, both unsettled.
"I can't remember it at all, but it’s weighing on me," Lithia said.
"Me too. It's like a lingering feeling I can't shake."
"...It's not like we shared a bed," Lithia joked, though she looked worried.
"Definitely not. And even then, people don't usually share the same dream."
They shared a wry, troubled smile, wondering at the strange coincidence.