Depths of the Otherworldly Labyrinth (WN) – Chapter 225

This is a very long story.
It’s the story of a girl who brought back to life the legend of the “Ruling King” who lived in an era even older than a thousand years ago.

Back then, everyone in the north knew of this hero’s tale.
The story, as expected, began with the words “Once upon a time” and continued with “A pair of old villagers living in a remote village finds a child.” However, the next part immediately described the old couple’s death, and the details of the child’s upbringing were never mentioned. A bland string of words followed monotonically, and soon the awakening of the King’s power began to be described. That was the hero’s tale of the “Ruling King.”

…Well, that’s how it is.

There are no hero’s tales that meticulously detail a peaceful and ordinary life. The reader would probably yawn themselves to sleep.
And my own memory is in a similar state. The memories of that childhood are strangely hazy. I can’t clearly recall that remote village or the faces of the old couple.

However, childhood memories are probably like that. After the age of twenty, once one becomes an adult, everyone should be in a similar state.
I myself am over a thousand years old. Even if it’s hazy, I should be grateful that anything remains.

…I should think that.
I must be thankful.
Because the time I spent with those old couple felt… important… I think…

No matter how hard I try, I can’t remember my childhood, but I remember what happened next clearly.
My awakening, which followed the death of the old couple.
I remember that vividly.

It was, if I recall correctly, a time when hunting Demon Beasts was rampant all over the place.
“Demon Beasts”—a race that suddenly appeared in the world—referring to those with monstrous characteristics in their bodies.
Great scholars apparently said that due to the influence of “the world’s poison,” their bodies had become closer to monsters. People called these monster-like humans “Demon Beasts.” For some reason, they were more numerous in the north than in the south of the continent. And perhaps because of the difference in numbers, while the north accepted “Demon Beasts” as individuality, the south treated them as an illness.
Thus, after regional differences in perception emerged, movements to exclude “Demon Beasts” naturally arose somewhere in the world.
In the end, the southern countries adopted a national policy to exterminate the existence of “Demon Beasts,” and the northern countries opposed this—leading to a war that divided the continent in two. As a consequence, things like Demon Beast hunts began to occur everywhere.

It was on a certain day during such a turbulent era.
My younger brother and I, on our way home, spotted them from a distance.

If it were written, it would be a single sentence: “Southern soldiers invaded under the pretext of hunting Demon Beasts,” but we, who witnessed it firsthand, trembled and couldn’t move a single step.
The sight was so brutal—all the houses were destroyed, their cherished livestock slaughtered, and the corpses of our friendly neighbors piled up.

Among those corpses were the old couple who had been our benefactors.
So—

—So?

So, Aid and I stood up to them.
With my power as a “Thief of Principles of the Wind”… There was no other choice… or so I thought.

Ah, yes.
I’m starting to remember bits and pieces.
Seeing the burning grasslands, the collapsed houses, and the corpses of our northern companions, I was filled with rage. And to take revenge on the southern knights who perpetrated such atrocities, I plunged into the conflagration.

And then, I—I shouted.

With the southern soldiers pointing their swords at me, I shouted.
As if to declare to the entire world, I proclaimed loudly—

“—’I’ am the Winged King who rules the continent! The descendant of the oldest Demon Blood, the King who governs all this world, ‘Rowen’! There is no reason for me to be defeated by trash like you!!”

Declaring myself the “Ruling King,” I accomplished my revenge with my overwhelming power.

Ordinary people could not hope to stand against a “Thief of Principles of the Wind”; all the soldiers were torn to shreds by the power of the free wind. And I, for a time, reclaimed that area from the south.
It was a miraculous turnaround, like a fairy tale.
That was the end of “Chapter One: The Awakening of the Ruling King” of the story.
The concluding sentence reads:

—Due to the invasion by the despicable southern soldiers, the “Ruling King” lost two family members. However, the King’s power awakened. With that power, the “Ruling King” successfully drove out the villains who had dominated his homeland—

And then, the next story, “Chapter Two,” began.

…

Ah, what “Chapter Two.” They arbitrarily divide people’s lives as they please.
…No, it doesn’t matter anymore. That’s right, it doesn’t matter to me now…

Thus, the “Ruling King” managed to reclaim her homeland, but her homeland’s grasslands were scorched, making recovery difficult. If she stubbornly remained “here,” she would eventually be overwhelmed by the south’s sheer numbers. Being intelligent, I understood this. It wasn’t just about me; considering her weak younger brother, escape was the only option.

And then, the setting shifted to the deep north, and the story of the orphanage began.
Since there were no battles in this part, it seems to have been drastically cut from the books.
I’m sure there were various things that happened during the move. There was the kindness of the old couple who had already made arrangements for an orphanage, and it was supposed to be deeply moving… but the one who wrote this hero’s tale was only interested in battles, leaving nothing behind.

By the way, the text in the book reads as follows.
A very casual expression of the passage of time.

—Moving to the orphanage, the “Ruling King’s” time passed.
It was the last period of rest for the awakened young king.
From the season of pink flowers to the season of yellow flowers. From the season of red flowers to the season of white flowers. The “Ruling King” lived in the orphanage with her future retainers, experiencing the unstable seasons of the Northern Continent.
Around that time, the “Ruling King,” unsuited to her talent, was made to work as a menial laborer, a “gardener,” at Viais Castle. However, while tending to the trees along the town’s paths, the “Ruling King” realized.
Her own talent and uniqueness. The reason for her kingship. She knew she was a vessel not meant to be confined to “gardening.” And the “Ruling King,” having gained not only power but also resolve, would then…—

—What is this?

It wasn’t supposed to be such a cool story.
I can still barely remember this period.

I must have been trembling then.
I was probably scared.
In the corner of my room, assigned to me at the orphanage, I was trembling.

“—It’s… not changing…? It’s not changing enough! Why is it only me!? Why do I stay so unchanged!?”

Several years after entering the orphanage, my brother Aid had grown considerably.
Despite being a child, he was steadily closing the gap with me, who looked like an adult.

It was natural that he was progressing. I had changed too little. Despite being in my growth spurt period, my height hadn’t increased at all, only my magic power was swelling.

“Could it be… that my big sister isn’t aging…?”

My brother Aid, who lived in the same room, guessed the reason.
Although Aid was two turns younger than me, his intuition was as sharp as an adult’s.

“Not aging…? Could it be… since that day…?”

I understood that it all had to do with that day.
From that moment on.

“D-Don’t tell anyone… Aid…”

Trembling, I made him promise secrecy.
If people around us found out, I’d definitely be looked at with suspicion. Although the orphanage was filled with fellow Demon Beasts, discrimination didn’t cease to exist entirely.

“It’s alright. I will absolutely not abandon my big sister. I also made a promise that day. So, I will absolutely not abandon you…”

Aid took my hand.

“I-I see… Then, I can rest easy. After all, I have a strong retainer with me…”
“Yes, *I’ am here for the ‘Ruling King’.”

To maintain my resolve, I acted like an impeccable king.
Recalling the role-playing games I used to play with Aid in the grasslands of my homeland, I posed as a familiar king.
Without maintaining a heroic heart like this, I would have gone mad from the abnormal situation.

Yes.
I was terrified to the point of madness.

That was the true story of “Chapter Two,” the “Orphanage Arc,” of the “Ruling King.”
I was not a king who had accepted her destiny, but a weak child who feared her destiny.

And, as if to torment me, the fearful child, the orphanage soon became embroiled in war.

While I was terrified of my unchanging body, the war, which had begun with the birth of Demon Beasts, was nearing its end.
The south was victorious in battles across various regions, and the north had lost most of its territory. Gradually, the people of the north lost their vitality, and the effects of the defeat began to reach the orphanage in Viais Country, where I lived.

Everyone in the orphanage, including myself, lived in fear.
We could do nothing against the approaching overwhelming power, and could only watch time pass.

And then, the peace of the orphanage finally ended.
The capital of Viais, the center of the north, was occupied by southern soldiers. It was a defeat with no excuse.
If written, it would probably be something like: “The northern countries were defeated by the fierce onslaught of the southern countries.”

Naturally, the orphanage was also occupied and began to be used as a place to cram “defiled Demon Beasts,” who were non-combatants.
Around them, the “clean humans” of the south constantly stood guard.
The Demon Beasts inside the orphanage, as if imprisoned, had grim expressions. My brother Aid was the same.
I can still recall those faces—

“—Titty, big sister… What will happen to us from now on…?”

In the corner of the cramped orphanage, Aid asked me.
Although Aid had grown, I was still taller than him. My younger brother, a turn smaller than me, looked up at me with tears welling in his eyes.
Seeing that, I decided I had to protect him.

However, in truth, I wanted to ask, “What will happen?”
But I couldn’t show my weakness. As Aid’s big sister.
More importantly, because I had declared myself the “Ruling King” on that day—

I could tell from my brother’s eyes.
Aid was relying on the “power of stealing the logic of the wind” from that day.
No, he was pinning his hopes on his sister being the legendary “Ruling King.”
He thought that if it was me, I could somehow fix even the end of the country.

“Aid… I…—”

Hesitation—I faltered.

Of course.
In truth, I had received an explanation about “Thieves of Principles” from an “Apostle” without Aid’s knowledge. That Apostle Diplakla had told me, the first “Thief of Principles,” that I was incomplete. However, it seemed that by continuing to use this power, I would truly be completed as a “Thief of Principles.”

—Scary.
I was terrified.
Such an unearned power… I didn’t know what would happen if I wielded it…
Being reasonably intelligent and not an idiot, I understood that well.

Such power should not exist in this world—

“—Big sister… is the ‘Ruling King’ who is stronger than anyone else, right…? You’re the King who will save everyone in the north…?”

The face of my cornered, adorable brother was before me.
And then, voices rose from my surroundings.
The adults who had cared for me, not just the children of the orphanage who looked up to me, began to speak, looking at me.

“If it’s Titty big sister… can you do something…?”
“Don’t be silly. No matter how strong she is, can she do anything about this number of enemies?”
“Indeed, Aid’s big sister is strong like the ‘Ruling King’ in that legend… so strong no one can beat her, and so wise…”
“Titty-chan, maybe…”

They watched as if cornering me.
It wasn’t just the children of the orphanage who admired me, but even the adults who had looked after me. Of course, I might have been the best sword user in town. My physique might have been comparable to an adult’s, and I might have excelled in my studies and hunting. My brother might have always boasted about my strength. It was understandable that in this despair, a small hope would shine brightly.

But I was still a child.

And yet, even adults expected me to…？
They relied on me, a child…？

“—A, ah. I am the ‘Ruling King.’ Do not worry, my brother, and everyone else… Leave it all to me…”

There were many things I wanted to say.
But overwhelmed by the weight of their expectations, I lowered my head.
As they said, I had the power.
The sense of responsibility as someone with the power of a “Thief of Principles” outweighed my fear.

Without showing a shred of fear on my face, I headed towards the Grand Hall in the center of the orphanage. Those who knew me followed. Their eyes sparkled with the expectation that I might be able to do something, and they trailed behind me in a throng.
And in the center of the Grand Hall, I addressed those who were not acquaintances from in the orphanage.

“My name is the ‘Ruling King.’ Rowen. I need everyone’s help.”

I invited them boldly, ensuring everyone could hear.
I could have done what I was about to do alone, but the success rate would be higher if everyone cooperated. Above all, honestly, I was scared to do it alone.

The first to respond to my voice was my best friend from the orphanage.

“Are you really going to do it, Titty?”

It was Seldra, the giant Dragon Person. He was one of the few who understood me, and the person I most wanted cooperation from at that moment.
After all, this blue-haired man was a Demon Beast who could keep up with me, who had awakened as a “Thief of Principles” without any blessings. Although overshadowed by my existence, this man was undoubtedly also unusual in some way.

“I owe Titty a debt. If you wish it, I will help you as a friend— no, as a subject. But are you sure about this?”

My friend Seldra confirmed.
He, who was close in power to me and had known me for a long time, seemed to have seen through the fear hidden deep in my heart. For now, Seldra was still—barely—a “friend.”

“Ah, I am. Please, Seldra. Your power will be necessary.”

Still, I nodded. It conveyed that there was no turning back.

“…Understood. Then, from now on, shall I call you ‘Ruling King’?”
“Seldra, gather those who are willing to fight the south and advance towards Viais Castle from the left. You may do as you see fit regarding the details.”
“Understood. My ‘Ruling King’.”

Seldra and I had role-played together as the “Ruling King” before. At that time, Seldra’s role was a general commanding troops on the front lines. Even though it was just repeating that role-playing game in front of everyone… unlike little Aid, Seldra’s dignified appearance as he called me “Ruling King” looked very fitting. It almost made me mistake myself for a capable king.

“Seldra, let me help you too! I won’t just stand by and be killed like this!”
“I-I will do it too! Titty-chan— no, ‘Ruling King’sama, please!”
“Ah, there must be something we can do too!!”

My orphanage companions, deceived by my act, stepped forward.
It was likely their feeling that they would die if they waited idly. Even though I knew it was a reckless act born of fear, I had no choice but to welcome them.

“Thank you, everyone… Yes. I want you all to team up with Aid instead of Seldra.”

Immediately, I devised the rebellion plan.
It was a plan that relied solely on speed, with no elaborate tricks. It was instinctively understood that this was the specialty of myself, a “Thief of Principles of the Wind.”

“Aid and the others are to cooperate in releasing General Volz and the others who are being held captive. After that, head towards Viais Castle together from the right. I, on the other hand, will go alone through the center and cause chaos. By my fighting, the entire Viais area will likely descend into chaos. If you take advantage of that, liberation and advance should be possible. If there are any unforeseen accidents, use me as a marker and rendezvous. No matter what they bring, I will somehow manage it.”

As I assembled this chaotic strategy, the ordinary civilians who had taken refuge in the orphanage began to murmur.

“W-Wait. What foolishness are you saying…!”
“It’s impossible! There’s no way! The south’s soldiers are swarming all around us!”
“We’ve completely lost! There’s nothing we can do!!”

As the green-haired woman started saying insane things, her acquaintances began to blindly believe her and act.
Of course.
Rather, that was the more normal reaction.

However, to bring those normal people to abnormality, I added words without any sign of wavering.

“—I can do it.”

Naturally, countless objections arose from the ordinary people, but—

“W-What!? There’s no way you can—”
“She can—the ‘Ruling King’ says she can.”

I crushed them with a single statement.
Frighteningly, the way I spoke, which had become extreme from too much role-playing, now carried genuine weight. In this abnormal situation, I possessed an abnormality that left everyone speechless.

This was a glimpse of the talent for ruling the demonic that would be told of later.
The abnormal amount of magic power and the extremely peculiar blood tickled the instincts of the Demon Beasts present.

Leaving the people who were overwhelmed by me, I calmly proceeded with preparations for the rebellion.

“First and foremost, reclaiming Viais Castle is urgent. More than a base, we can’t do anything without a symbol… Let’s hurry. My [Wind of Freedom] will be the signal. No, let’s make it a beacon.”

And then, I unleashed the power of the “Thief of Principles of the Wind,” which I had hidden for so long.
A soft yet powerful wind swept through the orphanage. The commotion within the institution reached its peak at this point.

“D-Did you just create wind…?”
“That’s impossible… It’s like magic.”
“Could it be…? The power of that fairy tale ‘Ruling King’?”
“It’s like the wind blowing in the valley…”
“The wind is gathering around her—”
“R-Really, the ‘Ruling King’…?”

I used a power that, in this era and on this continent, only appeared in fairy tales, as a matter of course.
It was natural for chaos to ensue.

Clad in the wind, I spoke gently to the people who still couldn’t make up their minds.

“If you still doubt me, just look at my back… But when you acknowledge my power, please convey it to many of our brethren. As long as no one gives up, please tell them that I am paving the way at the forefront…!”

With that, I began to weave magic.
I loudly chanted a supernatural power lost in this era, showing no restraint.
As if to inspire everyone present—

“I am the King of Kings! The Winged King who rules the continent! The descendant of the oldest Demon Blood, the King who governs all this world, ‘Rowen’! There is no reason for me to be defeated by trash like them! —!!”

With a roar, a mass of wind was launched upwards.
That wind tore a hole in the orphanage’s ceiling. And towards that hole, I soared.
Like the legendary “Ruling King,” I spread my hidden wings.

From the orphanage, I flew and continued to shout so that everyone could see.

“I will drive out all our enemies from the north!! Now, with my power—!! This wind is the [Wind of Freedom] that the northern Demon Beasts desire! A wind of hope that will repel the southerners!! —!!!!”

And to let the southern people know of the existence of the “Ruling King,” I conjured a storm.
A power that was a cheat in this era. The wind, which destroyed everything, was released from my hands, and the surrounding area disintegrated.

In an instant, over a hundred people died, and over a thousand were injured.
Naturally, the southerners were thrown into disarray as if struck by a natural disaster.
The ferocious storm, shredding people, produced immense amounts of blood and screams.

I forced my expression to remain stern and looked down at the scene from the sky.
Taking advantage of the storm’s chaos, I confirmed that Seldra and the others were disarming the southern soldiers. In the opposite direction, I could see Aid and the others discreetly leaving the orphanage.

The plan concocted by children had begun to move.
All that was left was for me to head straight for the castle and cause chaos.
I flew at a moderate altitude and speed, aiming for Viais Castle so as to be noticed by the southern people.
It was important to act as a beacon for my northern brethren—proclaiming myself the reincarnation of the “Thief of Principles of the Wind” and “Ruling King,” while destroying everything in my path.

And then, the momentarily confused southerners began to recover from their disarray and collectively challenged me, who was flying in the sky, trying to bring me down. To them, I—

—Honestly, I don’t want to remember what happened next.

What was about to happen was simply a massacre.
Slaughtering people with the wind, crushing them, and spilling blood and guts.
Killing, killing, killing, until only a path of blood remained.

However, amidst the blood path, voices of Demon Beasts who had found hope could occasionally be heard.

“Ah, ah… Is that the ‘Ruling King’…? ”
“A descendant of the Winged tribe, such a thing is absurd…”
“But that power… is undoubtedly…”
“Overwhelming… Will she go all the way to the castle like this…?”
“Everyone! The ‘Ruling King’s’ power is undeniable! She will carve a bloody path alone! She will pierce the castle with her own body!”

Amidst the astonished voices of those Demon Beasts, Aid’s inciting voice could be heard.

“—But after that, we will need everyone’s strength! Currently, the ‘Ruling King’s’ excellent retainers are supporting from the left, but they have not yet captured the castle! We desperately need more numbers to occupy it!!”

Knowing that Aid was fighting in his own way, my wind grew even stronger.
As a flawless king, I continued to fight.
Even surrounded by a thousand soldiers, even rained upon by ten thousand arrows, even with countless screams assaulting my ears, I fought and fought—continuing to create a path of blood.

“Haa, haa, haa—!! I am the ‘Ruling King’!! I am the ‘Ruling King’!! Not yet! I won’t stop until I kill all of you trash—!!!!”

Thinking only of carving a hole into the country occupied by the south, I continued to kill and kill.
I sliced through a thousand soldiers with blades of wind, countered ten thousand arrows with ten thousand wind arrows, created countless corpses, and at the end of it all, I reached the castle.

By the time I arrived there, the outcome of the battle had already been decided by Seldra and General Volz, who had joined forces. All I had to do was break down the castle gate; the enemy lost the option of holding out, and there was no need for a siege.

A complete and utter victory—the plan was a great success—the enemy commander was easily captured—everything went perfectly.

Yes.
Ironically, this mock advance had succeeded so well.

It was all probably because of the terrifying power of this “Thief of Principles of the Wind.”
I was so anxious, so worried. The ‘Price’ of this power that turned a child’s dream into reality—just thinking about it made my body tremble.
However, I couldn’t show it yet.

“Ah, I did it! I did it! We took back the castle—!!”
“We won! We took it back! We killed those southerners!!”
“Thank you! ‘Ruling King’sama—!!”
“‘Ruling King’sama! Long live, long live—! ‘Ruling King’sama, long live—!!”
“‘Ruling King’! ‘Ruling King’! ‘Ruling King’! ‘Ruling King’! ‘Ruling King’—!!”

Surrounded by people weeping with joy, I couldn’t possibly show a worried face.
I had no choice but to put on the expression of the “Ruling King” so that everyone could feel at ease.

“H-Haha, hahahaha…!”

Come to think of it… I seem to have gotten good at smiling with余裕 around this time…

—With this, “Chapter Two,” the “Orphanage Arc,” of the story concludes.
A great triumphant reversal. The reclamation was a complete success. An unblemished beginning.

Next is “Chapter Three.”
After the “Orphanage Arc,” the book is titled “Viais Defense Arc.”
But, “Viais Defense Arc”…

Ah, it really makes me angry. Don’t arbitrarily divide someone’s life into arcs.
Who has that right? They do as they please because they are dead.
Only I should be able to do that…!
…No, that doesn’t matter now either.
More importantly, after this, I believe…—

Having recaptured the occupied capital of Viais, I found myself alone and at a loss in the castle’s Throne Room.
The townspeople rejoiced in the victory and were enjoying a feast.
And there were countless prisoners in the castle.

—It’s good that they’re celebrating, but what do we do from here…?
I, who only knew of playing pretend, cannot possibly maintain this peace.
I am an amateur who doesn’t even know how to handle prisoners. I don’t know how to conduct diplomacy.

Are there no people in the castle who are knowledgeable about war and politics…?
Is there no one who can lead to a ceasefire from here…?
No, more importantly, we need to change leadership soon…
It’s not good for me to be the instigator of the rebellion forever. Adults with more specialized knowledge should handle this…

That’s right.
For a child like me, being the leader is too heavy a burden…
It’s so heavy it crushes my body. If my mind is like this, the tens of thousands of people celebrating now will fall back into despair. Before that happens, someone, anyone…—

“—’Ruling King’sama! I have a report on the matter you requested!!”
“O-Oh. It’s finally finished!”

I, who was sitting cross-legged behind the empty throne, stood up with joy as a familiar acquaintance from the orphanage entered.
What I had asked him was an investigation to solve the problem I was currently contemplating.

We quickly gathered the main members of this rebellion in the Throne Room to hear the report.
The adults from the orphanage, the generals of the Viais family—and the powers that be from the northern towns.

However, my expectations were betrayed by an unexpected report.

“—W-What!? You’re saying there are no members of the Viais royal family in the castle right now…?”
“Yes. Although a considerable number died in the battle, this… Perhaps half of them had already fled the country in advance.”

And yet, in front of the country’s dignitaries, I became angry in my true nature.

“That’s absurd!! They abandoned their people and fled!? The King is the King because they protect their people! Bearing that expectation, they fled without fulfilling any responsibility!? Unforgivable! Such a thing is absolutely unforgivable! Such people cannot be called royalty—!!”

I became enraged at the royalty who did not protect me and disparaged them in front of the dignitaries.

“—Ah…”

I, I did it…
I have no complaints even if I’m hanged for lese-majeste…

Trembling, I surveyed my surroundings.
However, for some reason, no one reprimanded me for my statement.
Instead, just like at the orphanage—

“Excuse me during the meeting! ‘Ruling King’sama, enemies from the south…!!”

At that moment, a messenger rushed into the Throne Room.
It was a merciless messenger announcing that the fighting was not over.

“E-Enemies have already arrived…!? But there are no royals here now…!!”
“Eh? R-Royals…? ‘Ruling King’sama, is there something about that…?”
The messenger who reported to me, their face etched with pure bewilderment.

“Is there a problem… of course…”

The words “of course” caught in my throat. It wasn’t just the messenger; everyone around me shared the same look. The adults from the orphanage, the generals of the Viaisian family, even the influential figures of the city were all looking at *me*.

*Why are they looking at me like this?*

Surely, everyone here knew that the title “Ruling King” was nothing but a grand boast! That I didn’t possess the noble blood of the legendary “Ruling King”!

Admittedly, the power of the “Thief of the Laws of the Wind” might have been immense! But if *strength alone* was the criterion, surely there were better candidates! Didn’t they find it strange? I was the youngest here! If you asked my age, you’d be so shocked by how young I am! The strongest among the adults here now—what’s this, they’re over there in the corner!!

“If the enemy army is approaching from the South… General Volz! From now on, you will act as my proxy—”

He was a veteran general, someone I had heard of. His body was massive, and his appearance exuded a commanding presence. Surely, he would be able to stand in for me. Or so I thought—but my proposal was interrupted by a man who appeared to be General Volz’s adjutant.

“I am truly sorry, ‘Ruling King.’ General Volz was betrayed by his country, losing many companions and his family… Honestly, this is my limit…”

Upon closer inspection, General Volz’s face was devoid of life, as if he had lost everything in this world. It seemed there was a reason he was standing apart.

“I see… However, you who belong to the military do not need to call me ‘Ruling King.’ I am not forcing you to…”

Perhaps I could ask this adjutant to act as my representative. But, as expected, that hope was also dashed.

“No, such disrespect… I cannot. We have only witnessed the magnificent presence of the ‘Ruling King’ amidst battle.”

“I… I see…”

Looking around again, everyone had the same expression. Ah, it was similar to Aid’s face. They looked at me with expectation, as if thinking, “Perhaps you can do something about this.”

“—It’s for now. There’s no one else who can do it but you.”

Then, I was spoken to in a low voice from behind. It was my friend, Seldra.

“I… I understand…”

Seldra seemed to grasp the situation with composure. Unlike me, who didn’t want to accept their expectations, he was convinced that only I, who had claimed to be the “Ruling King,” could lead this dying country.

“—Then, Seldra! I’m sorry, but I’ll need you to stick with me a little longer!!”

“Ah, and I suppose there’s no one else who can do it but me. As the ‘Ruling King’s’ right-hand man, I’ll accompany you. After all, I consider myself a friend to you siblings.”

With my friend’s cooperation, I gained a sliver of courage. Then, emboldened by that courage, I shouted in the middle of the meeting.

“—Everyone! I intend to go out to meet them! I’m sorry, but will you accompany this ‘Ruling King’!?”

Since I couldn’t negotiate, I asked directly. All I could do was destroy.

“Yes, of course, ‘Ruling King.’ All of General Volz’s soldiers are yours to command.”

And, as expected, my plan was fully supported. The northern rebel army, with the “Ruling King” as their leader, raised their banner in Viais Castle.

With that momentum, I walked through the castle, calling out to my acquaintances from the orphanage. Of course, Aid was among them.

“Sis— no, ‘Ruling King’! What happened with the meeting!?”

“Enemy reinforcements are coming! Therefore, we will organize a unit to strike. Aid, you too, help me!!”

“Yes, of course! I am the ‘Ruling King’s’ foremost retainer!!”

My younger brother accepted with a pleased expression.

Ah, this burden. Why doesn’t this brother understand how heavy and painful it is…

Before I had time to show my discontent, I began preparations for the counterattack.

In the castle town, the cheers of “‘Ruling King’! ‘Ruling King’! ‘Ruling King’!” and “Long live, long live, long live—!” continued endlessly. Pushed and pushed by their expectations, I had no choice but to lead the army out of Viais Castle. My opponents were the vast army of people from the South… and, as you can probably guess, I overwhelmed them here too.

With tactics that felt like an extension of playing pretend, I achieved victory. It was a victory as if I were cursed. And the more I won, the more my expression hardened. The pretend “Ruling King” slowly grew. It was as if the “Ruling King” was stealing the growing time of the girl, Titty. With terrifying speed, I was being completed as the “Ruling King.”

—And then, little by little, my perceived speed began to accelerate.

As if rolling down, the story transitioned from “Chapter 3” to “Chapter 4.” If divided into arcs, it would be from the “Viais Defense Arc” to the “Northern Reclamation Arc.” …Ah, I don’t even have the energy to be angry anymore. From here on out, it’s just a story of falling. Nothing matters—

By achieving victory after victory, not only the defense but also the territory gradually expanded. Although it didn’t yet have the form of a country, the military strength was substantial. During that time, due to the arrival of demons fleeing from the South, the castle town was almost overflowing. I was confused by the explosive increase in population. While inspecting the hastily established campsites, I asked my aide for details.

“W-what is this… Why so suddenly…?”

“That’s what it is, ‘Ruling King.’ According to the immigrants, there’s a rumor in the South that there’s a paradise in the ends of the North.”

“A paradise in the ends of the North…? Is that what they said…?”

Which part of *this place* is it? A child is playing at being the leader, finances are stretched to the limit, and the organization is on the verge of collapse. Even so, why do they call *this place* paradise? Besides, shouldn’t it be *me* who wants to go to that “paradise”—

“—’Ruling King.’ The Southern army is demanding their return.”

“Their return…? Of what?”

“The demons who fled. They claim they belong to the Southern country.”

“—!? W-what foolishness are you spouting!! Tell them this! ‘We have our own laws. All our brethren who fled from the South are our family!’—Tell them that!! We cannot return them!!”

“Understood. I believed ‘Ruling King’ would say so. I shall inform them accordingly.”

“Ah, ah…”

My bad habit has surfaced again. In my anger, I ended up protecting the demons. Perhaps it’s because I’m trying to be the “Ruling King,” but my head heats up whenever I think of the oppressed demons. And the eyes of the citizens who witnessed my behavior changed. As usual—they began to murmur, “As expected of the ‘Ruling King’.”

Ah, I get it. My face is already contorted and I can’t return it to normal. I should just meet their expectations, right? Fortunately, since I’m the one who wants to go to that “paradise” more than anyone, I think I can manage to provide a substitute.

Thus, the Northern rebel army was forced to accept immigrants and consider policies to maintain their lives. My brother Aid played a significant role in realizing the acceptance of these immigrants. While he had no talent for combat, there was no one better than him for tedious work and cunning schemes. More importantly, Aid possessed the resolve to sacrifice himself for the country.

However, Aid doesn’t consider my burden. He seems to think that a “Ruling King” can do anything. And I try to meet that expectation. This, too, is as usual. Frighteningly, by continuing this, the North has gradually begun to form as a country. A new Viaisia country was about to be born, with me as its king.

Seeing this situation, my friend Seldra analyzes it calmly.

“—It’s a pity that almost all the royalty has disappeared. Because of that, everyone expects you to act like royalty, and on top of that, they demand the shrewdness of a commanding general, and the charisma of a revolutionary.”

“Seldra…”

“And fortunately, you seem to have the capacity to fulfill it.”

I’d say unfortunately. As always, my friend doesn’t understand other people’s feelings…!

“I don’t have such capacity… I don’t. It’s all coincidence. I was just lucky… It’s all a misunderstanding on your part.”

Since there were only two of us, I let out my frustrations. Only to Seldra, who possessed power comparable to mine, could I say this.

“Is that so? Well, either way, I’m clumsy, so I can only help… ”

However, my complaint went unheard. Even my friend no longer doubted that I was the “Ruling King.” Seeing that, I knew I had no one left to consult.

“…N-no, you must have your own troubles. Even just your help is a great relief.”

“I’m the one who’s relieved. It’s inappropriate, but this position is medicine for my illness.”

“Is that so? That’s good… Please be angry with me for a moment, I need some time alone…”

From that moment on, I stopped consulting Seldra. I could no longer rely on anyone. I had to figure it out on my own.

“I have no choice…!! I, the one!”

With that resolve—my speed of falling further accelerated. With a newfound determination, I began to focus solely on ending the war. Shifting from defense to assertive offense, I began reclaiming the northern territories. I now possessed the strength to do so. Though I hated to admit it, I had acquired not only raw power but also leadership abilities. I thought that if I kept playing pretend, it would never end, so I studied alone, sacrificing sleep to fight the South. I devoured the castle’s literature and devised my own methods of warfare.

As a result, I gained the hearts of the people and the trust of my vassals. Coupled with my already extraordinary personal power, the “Thief of the Laws of the Wind,” with the help of others, was bordering on invincible. And, a few years later—I easily achieved my long-cherished wish.

“—I did it…! I’ve returned the northern territories to their state before the war! Hah, I finally got them back…!!”

The fundamental review of the demons’ fighting methods was a major factor. It took time to make them capable of confronting the South without relying solely on me. However, considering individuals, demons were inherently stronger than humans. If there were generals to command these strong individuals, they wouldn’t fall behind the South. This was proven by the Northern army’s successive victories. It was only natural, as I led not only a disciplined demon army but also real monsters. When I subjugated a dragon rampaging in the frontier, both enemies and allies feared me.

And so, I succeeded in restoring the altered map to its pre-war state. The Northern nations regained their strength, and I unified them. The balance between North and South returned to equilibrium, creating a situation where a truce could be negotiated. I immediately pursued and successfully concluded the truce. I managed to restore the world’s geopolitical situation to what it was when I was in my hometown’s grasslands. Ah, with this… With this, finally—!

“The North has returned to normal…! With this, with this—!!”

—I can finally fulfill my role. Or so I thought…

“—You did it, ‘Ruling King.’ We’ve finally reached peace. Then, let’s use this time of truce to prepare for the next battle. We’ll organize the national finances and reorganize the army. We also need to unite the regional lords… However, with the ‘Ruling King’s’ authority, that should be easy.”

“…………”

It was only natural. My subordinate demon spoke about the next course of action in a detached manner.

“Of course, diplomacy with the South, let’s also promote diplomacy with the Western and Eastern countries. This revolution wouldn’t have succeeded without their cooperation. I’m sure they’ll demand various things. Also—”

“P-pardon me for interrupting. What about the news of the exiled Viaisian royalty returning…?”

“Eh? The Viaisian royal family…? Ah, they might return, taking advantage of the ‘Ruling King’s’ compassion. But what of it? ‘Ruling King’?”

What of it? I understood the meaning of those words and despaired. Yet, my hardened expression did not change. A perfect king with a sullen expression, listening to the adjutant’s report. Ah, my body felt heavy… My facial muscles wouldn’t move… What I hated most was how I was getting used to it…

“No, if they return, it would be a joyous occasion.”

Perhaps someone might use the royals as a figurehead and aim for this throne. It was worth considering the possibility. That was the extent of the hope I could currently muster. And, as expected, that hope was dashed. From this point forward, no rebellion would occur in the North, no matter how many years passed.

And thus began the days consumed by state affairs. In terms of an epic tale, perhaps—from the season of pink blossoms to the season of yellow flowers. From the season of red flowers to the season of white flowers. Repeating the unstable seasons unique to the North—? Likely, if it were to be titled, it would be “Chapter 5: The Hegemon Arc.” Ah, even that no longer mattered…

As my position as king solidified, the feeling of falling intensified. Like a snowball rolling and growing, various entanglements clung to my body. Not just the expectations of the citizens, but the expectations of other Northern countries were now weighing on my back. I felt so crushed I could break, but I couldn’t collapse. If I were to disappear now, the Northern countries would be swallowed by the South once again. Therefore, I had no choice. It had to be me.

And so, I became a genuine “Ruling King,” losing my true self, Titty. The loss of Titty had a profound impact on my heart. Little by little, I began to naturally lose awareness of what I was doing. Even self-awareness was lost, and my sense of time began to accelerate further—no, it began to go mad.

How many years have passed since that day…? Thinking such thoughts, I welcome my vassals at Viais Castle today as well. With the same unchanged appearance as before—but as the legendary “Ruling King,” I must welcome many kings, heroes, generals, and clan leaders. My job now is to unite the solidified Northern countries and make them even more robust… Yes, that’s right… And this is my job, so I have no choice… I have to hurry…

“—’Ruling King.’ The meeting is about to begin.”

Aid, who had grown into a capable Chancellor, called out to me. My brother had aged. In the blink of an eye, he had surpassed me. His innocent features had transformed into an adult’s face. He was a bit thin and unhealthy, but unlike me, he had successfully become a respectable adult.

“Ah, Aid… I’m coming now…”

And today, I proceeded to the throne room of Viais Castle. With a flag symbolizing the North behind me, I sat on the throne. The dignitaries seated at the round table before me held their breath at the appearance of the “Ruling King.” However, unfamiliar faces were also increasing. The number of dignitaries present reflected the size of the Northern territory. It was more than ten times what it was on the day of the rebellion.

“Then, ‘Ruling King’…”

“Ah, let us begin.”

The meeting, which had become a regular occurrence since the day of the rebellion, commenced. Yet, nothing changed, regardless of how many years passed. Everyone looked at me with expectant eyes. Even Volz, the country’s highest-ranking general, only affirmed my words. And Aid, the country’s Chancellor, was the same.

“Yes. Everything is as the ‘Ruling King’ has commanded.”

Everyone bowed their heads to me. The usual meeting ended, as usual. The dignitaries left the throne room. Their expressions suggested a sense of security, as if to say, “As long as ‘Ruling King’ is here, we are all safe.” This was far from the meeting I had envisioned. My country’s policy was supposed to be to reconcile various opinions and establish them as the North’s direction. I thought it would become a country that didn’t rely on me, but that was not the case at all. It was still a country that would collapse without me. This was the result of being too perfect a king. After all, whether it was military or political affairs, everything was resolved when I stepped in. As a demon who wished for the happiness of other demons, I succeeded in everything, no matter what. Even though I knew it, my body moved on its own. Not the girl Titty, but the “Ruling King” acted… And the more perfect a king I became, the faster time seemed to pass. It wasn’t just about being swamped with work; I had a sense of not being present, as if I were dreaming. Time passed at high speed. In such a nightmare, at a time I no longer knew, I muttered to myself.

“—It’s over. My role is over. And yet, how long will this last…?”

There was no answer to my question. First, I don’t age—this is the biggest problem. Because of this, I can’t even plan for retirement. “I don’t change… Is it because I don’t change that I can’t end…?” I continued my self-questioning. The country is not yet at a level where it can consider a successor. The education level is low, and there’s a severe shortage of personnel. Of course, I am implementing measures to resolve this. However, even if this problem is resolved decades from now—

—Will the people give up such a convenient existence as an ‘Immortal King’? Not to mention a strongest demon with unassailable strength, whose body only suffers mild indigestion even when poisoned, possessing the strongest magic power and magic on the continent. Having fought countless battles and reached the highest level in politics, and not aging, her abilities never deteriorate. No, her abilities continue to grow. She is eternally in her growth period and peak. Possessing power that surpasses legends, she loves her country more than anyone and is rumored to have a perfect personality. Furthermore, enemies fear her existence itself, regarding her as insane, and her own people regard her with reverence bordering on worship.

Even without self-questioning, the answer is clear. As long as I am myself, I will remain king. The moment I understood this, my body, which would not tremble even surrounded by a thousand swords, trembled.

“It’s… impossible. I can’t stay sane…” Staying king forever…? When will “forever” end? If I truly am immortal, it might not be a matter of a hundred years. Not a hundred years, but a thousand. Not a thousand, but an eternity, must I continue to reign? Alone in my royal chamber, I shook my head. And, driven by that fear, I left the king’s room. I wanted someone to save me. I couldn’t bear to suffer alone anymore. My first thought was my friend Seldra, but I quickly dismissed it. He was currently fighting on the southern front. Besides, even if he were here, I doubted he could understand me now. I, as the king, had made it so. ‘Friend’ no longer existed. He was now walking a new life as the ‘Commander-in-Chief’ on the front lines. Then, my brother. Only my brother Aid. Aid was someone I had to protect, but I was at my limit. I couldn’t keep telling myself, “It’s because I’m his sister.” I want to quit. I want to quit everything and go home! I want to find a place similar to my homeland, escape, and live quietly with him— That’s what I wanted to say, so I looked for Aid. I ran through the castle, aiming for the Chancellor’s room. Oh, Aid… I’m suffering… Help me… “Aid, Aid Aid Aid, Aid—!!” I ran through the corridor and reached my destination. I opened the door to the Chancellor’s room, and inside— “—Ah! ‘Ruling King’! Just in time! I did it too! I am the ‘Thief of the Laws of Wood’!!” Aid was there. My brother, who had somehow grown into a tall, gaunt adult. He exuded an abnormal presence, like some kind of monster. “Eh?” The brother I had to protect was no longer there. Aid, who was more than two sizes smaller than me, had become bigger—and stronger—than me. Having walked by my side for a long time, Aid had become the ‘Perfect Chancellor’ befitting a ‘Ruling King.’ Furthermore, he had become one of *us*, a ‘Thief of Principles.’ “Look! How is this power?! Following the Apostle’s advice, I also ‘stole principles’! Ah, now I can help you. No longer can they say it’s a country sustained by only one ‘Ruling King’! Now I can keep up with the perfect you!! Yes, I will accompany you, always and forever! My ‘Ruling King’!!” And he looked at me with sparkling eyes. My already heavy body felt many times heavier. I felt like I was drilling a hole into the ground with that weight and falling into the abyss. “Finally! Finally, my wish is about to come true! I’m about to become worthy of being the ‘Ruling King’s’ first retainer! Fufu, with this power, it seems I can also realize the promise we made in the past!!” “Ah, ah, Aid…” My tongue had dried, and I couldn’t speak properly. However, Aid, in his elation, didn’t notice. “Fufu, perhaps you’ve forgotten because it was so long ago? It’s about the story of making the word ‘Demon’ forgotten by the world!” “Aid…” “The word ‘Demon’ invariably carries a connotation of defilement. A more appropriate word, something that emphasizes the blessings of nature—for example, ‘Beastfolk,’ might be good. It might give off a somewhat rough image, but don’t you think it’s rather good? It can clearly demonstrate our strengths.” No. That’s not it. That’s not what matters. “Aid, wait…” “Ah, are you perhaps a little disappointed? Of course, I understand that present matters are more important than distant ones. Changing the consciousness of all humans in the world… if one were to attempt that, it would take hundreds of years after unifying the continent. It’s at the level of hoping for it to be realized in a thousand years. Nevertheless, as the Chancellor of this Viaisia Country, I cannot help but wish for it. No, perhaps as a demon born in the North… Fufu.” I no longer care about the country, or the conflict between humans and demons. From the bottom of my heart, I couldn’t care less. More than other people, I care about myself— “—Y-yes. That’s your dream. As your king, I support your dream.” “Yes, let’s protect this country together! ‘Ruling King’!” I can’t anymore. Aid—no, I can’t say anything to this Chancellor of Viaisia Country. Because he is my brother, he expects more of me than anyone else in this country. He probably thinks it’s natural for the king to fight for a thousand years to brainwash the entire continent. No, this face might not be for a thousand years. Forever. He’s determined to do it. For eternity, he’ll be my vassal. To that end, matching the immortal king, he made himself immortal. I’m sure of it now. He—has no intention of returning to being my brother. Never again. “Hahahaha, haha, hahaha—!” “Fufu, I’m looking forward to what’s next. Fufufufu—!” The king and the chancellor laughed together. Ah, before I knew it… I have no one who understands me… Since no one perceives me as Titty, I’m losing the ability to prove that I am myself. If this continues, I’ll be reduced to the concept of a perfect king. I had no choice but to return to my royal chamber alone. —And then, as I clearly understood my solitude, time accelerated once more. Seasons passed over and over again. Along with them, the cheers resonating from my back increased. The number of people I led increased. The number of people I had to protect increased. The number of people I had to fight increased. Everything was piled onto my back. My weak heart couldn’t refuse it. I couldn’t abandon it. Everyone piled it on, saying, “If it’s ‘Ruling King,’ it’ll be fine,” even though I was already beyond my limit. By now, both my hands and feet were numb from the weight, and I could barely move them. More than that, even my sense of time had become numb. The world I was seeing became blurred. —And even further, time accelerated. ……… ……… Ah, what time is it now…? What is happening…? Who am I now, and what am I doing…? While asking myself these questions, I continued to fight as king. Before I knew it, even when abnormal situations like the sky being covered in dark clouds occurred—, even when people began to use magic, a privilege exclusive to ‘Thieves of Principles’—I acted as a perfect king without any disturbance—I continued to fight—. Ironically, even though my self-awareness faded, my talent made it easy to govern the North. If there was a civil war in the North, I would resolve it with a speech as the ‘Ruling King’—if there were skirmishes with the South, I would go and achieve victory—and I repeatedly returned victorious to Viais as an undefeated king. I repeated this. For years and years, I repeated, repeated, repeated, repeated, repeated, repeated, repeated—even as my sense of time accelerated, even as it accelerated—I continued to repeat—… …—During that time, a single unforgivable anomaly occurred. Fortunately, an ‘anomaly’ mixed into the ‘perfect world’ of the ‘Ruling King.’ Suddenly, the number of enemy soldiers in the South who couldn’t be defeated rapidly increased. Furthermore, the probability of demon births in the South began to decrease sharply. The repetitive task was broken, and my blurred self-awareness recovered slightly. The first thing I confirmed were three strong knights: Aleis, Lantz, and Helvishein, three talented human men. It didn’t take long for them to reach the same point as me, becoming ‘Thieves of Principles.’ Following that was the appearance of the Saint Nosfy Fuziaze, who led them. Just as I rose to prominence, this girl named Nosfy suddenly appeared as a savior. The South, which had been suffering continuous defeats, began to fight back. However, it was still maintainable. We had the advantage of experience. It wasn’t enough to collapse the North. —To collapse the country. That’s right. At this time, I had begun to wish for the country’s collapse. I was waiting eagerly. For someone to kill me, the one calling myself ‘Ruling King.’ I wished for the existence of such a savior. The very savior I called myself wished for it. —And then, we met on a certain battlefield. In a battlefield where the terrain changed with the wind and was stained with the blood of the dead, one-on-one. I, a monster, faced another monster, and we exchanged words— “—Finally, we meet, ‘Mad King.’ I will save you now.” I met the ‘Anomaly of the World.’ “……Y-you are that ‘Kanami’?”
Despite having no interest, as a King, I possessed the information.

There was no doubt that this black-haired, black-eyed knight was the Shiso who had revived the southern country.

My first thought was that he was young.

However, I quickly realized it wasn’t a matter of age. His magic power was too peculiar. He was more unfinished than I, who was called a prototype by the Apostle. What an unstable “Thief of Principles.” I thought.

“State what you desire, Lord.”

“Wait. Why are you asking *me* such a thing?”

“Just answer! Looking at someone like you irritates me…!!”

That man resembled me. He was in despair like me, and he was mad. From a King’s perspective, he was undoubtedly someone I had to kill. I knew I had to fight him. But—this madman understood me.

More than anyone in the North. No, more than anything in the world.

“You speak too boldly… I am the ‘Ruling King’…”

“What king? Don’t lie, you idiot. …I can tell by looking. You’re not fit to be a king. Like me, you’re just a weak human trying to live. Ah, you’re just a weakling being deceived, oppressed, and allowed to live for convenience.”

There are enemies who speak boldly to me. However, this was the first time anyone, including allies, had understood my inner state so accurately.

“Am I trying… too hard…?”

“Yeah. That way of speaking doesn’t suit you. Can’t you speak differently?”

“Ah, ah, that… um…”

“Tch, irritating. Hurry up and answer. You slowpoke…”

“No, I can’t quite recall… I think I used to speak differently… I believe this way of speaking was something I started as a temporary measure… um…”

Perhaps it was because he had suddenly cut so deeply into my heart when we were alone, but I couldn’t speak properly. How many years had it been since I had been so aware of my self-consciousness? When was the last time I had spoken as myself? In any case, my tongue didn’t move well.

“Ah, forget it! Fine! Just tell me what you want!”

“What I desire…?”

What was it…? I felt like I had many things. I felt there were places I wanted to go. But now, I had become jaded and couldn’t remember.

“I… I don’t know… But I know it’s not ‘here.’ Ah, you’re right… I want to quit being King… That’s for sure!! Please, take me away from the North…! I’m begging you…!!”

Confused by this sudden, understanding person, I found myself pleading as if to expel everything from within me. The black-haired, black-eyed man accepted it.

“–Deals. Alright, then the ‘Contract’ is formed. However, taking the ‘Ruling King’ from ‘here’ will be difficult without careful timing. Even if I took you now, Seldra and Aid would come after us with a large army to reclaim you. It needs to be a time when there’s much more breathing room…”

“Of course, I don’t mean right away! Anytime is fine! Please!!” If this continues, I will cease to be myself!!”

“Ah, yeah. I get it… I won’t abandon you, so don’t worry. If there’s something you desire, I want to fulfill it as much as possible.”

And so, I welcomed the Knight of betrayal to the North. There was much opposition, but perhaps thanks to my past achievements, I managed to push through the personal appointments.

“–Alright. Now ‘Aikawa Uzunami’ is your subordinate. But don’t forget the ‘Contract’. Someday, I will betray the ‘Ruling King’, and even if it means destroying all of Viais, I will take the girl named Titty from ‘here’. I will take you wherever you desire.”

“Ah, please do…”

“In return, I’ll let you use the Northern army once. Without pawns, I can’t break through the wall protecting the southern Apostle.”

“That’s a trivial matter.”

“Teeda, Rowen, and Fafnir, the three knights. And Nosfy. If you can suppress these ‘Thieves of Principles’ with your kingly power, I will kill the original Apostle in the meantime.”

Killing the Apostle who was the cause of the South’s rapid growth. That wasn’t a bad thing for the North. In the long run, it was something the King of the North could agree with.

Yes. I haven’t betrayed anyone. Uzunami is the one betraying, and I am not betraying anyone’s expectations. That was a very sweet way to escape, a path I had no choice but to flee into. Even if it was Uzunami’s scheme. I was that desperate.

“Wait for me, Lord. I will betray you soon. And I will destroy your country. Honestly, I’ve been fed up with this country for a long time. This is a country of incompetents kept alive by the whims of the Apostles. On top of that, they’ve made an idiot girl like you a ‘Thief of Principles’ and deified you as the ‘Ruling King’, expecting you to rely on them—! Ah, it makes me sick!!”

“To… to that extent…?”

“It’s unthinkable where I came from. The North and the South are too abnormal, it’s honestly disgusting.”

“Mumu…”

I puffed out my cheeks slightly at the low evaluation of my country from the Southern Shiso. I should have retorted as a King, but I didn’t say anything back. It was because the part of me that wasn’t a King agreed with his words. I felt the same disgust and revulsion as Uzunami in the corner of my heart. Yes, Uzunami was undoubtedly my understanding person.

And so, with Uzunami as my guardian knight, more time passed. Thanks to my dulled sense of time, that moment arrived quickly. I don’t know when, but Uzunami informed me at a very early stage.

“–It’s over. I’ve made my arrangements. Thanks to Seldra and Aid, I’ve succeeded in dividing the three knights. From now on, I will abandon this country and hunt down Apostle Sis.”

“Finally… it’s over…?”

“Yeah, it’s over. If you’re going to run, now’s the time. I’ve made preparations so that the infamy you’re worried about will primarily fall on me. Well, at worst, the infamy should be split between us.”

“Th-then I will run too… I want to run…!”

And so, when the war between North and South reached its climax, I, the King, and Uzunami, the Knight Commander, disappeared from Viais. It was the fact that we were two people, not one, that lightened my steps. Though my body was at its limit, the fact that my understanding person was leading the way was enough to make me move.

Blending into the night, we fled from the Northern country. We ran and ran through the battlefield, covered in mud. And when we crossed the border and reached a nameless village, I expressed my gratitude.

“–Uzunami… Thank you for betraying me… Thank you for abandoning my country.”

“Now you are free. The North and the South are irrelevant. Hurry and flee to another continent.”

In the nighttime grasslands outside the country, I was weeping. Wearing rags unfit for a king, with my proud green hair tied up, I looked like a village maiden, and without anyone watching, I cried like a child. The sense of liberation from no longer being a king made my whole body tremble. But that trembling wasn’t solely from joy. There was a little fear mixed in.

No matter how much I had abandoned my role as king, my people would not accept it. Perhaps the Northern countries would search for me. Furthermore, the thought of Viais’s future after my disappearance was frightening. It wasn’t certain that it would be destroyed, but the possibility had certainly increased.

Yes. Even now, I was scared of myself thinking I should return. Of course, more than that, I was afraid of returning to that hell, which is why I stopped. Various factors mixed, and my body’s trembling didn’t stop at all. Seeing me cry continuously, Uzunami sighed.

“…Haa. If you’re afraid of being alone, come with me. That alone should make a considerable difference.”

He extended his hand. Feeling vulnerable and close to death, I reflexively took his hand. Uzunami was further exasperated by my lack of hesitation.

“You’re really coming? You’ll just be used if you come with me. Don’t be fooled so easily. You idiot…”

Then, pitying my pathetic self, he informed me of his intentions beforehand. But, I understood. Still, I wanted to follow him.

“…I don’t mind. You can deceive and use me as much as you want. So, please let me follow you a little longer.”

Honestly, I didn’t know what I would do alone from now on. Even if I returned to my homeland, I was confident I would go mad from loneliness without someone to live with. Above all, I had the true desire not to let go of Uzunami, my only understanding person.

“Fufu. Besides, won’t it be too much for you alone? Even if the isolation of the three knights succeeded, there are still ‘Thieves of Principles of Light’ among the Apostles. You truly desire the power of this ‘Demon King’, don’t you?”

“Ah… geez! You’re really an idiot! After giving me so much, are you planning to throw away your life now…!?”

“It’s fine. Please accompany me, Uzunami. I feel like helping you a little…”

“I’m not saying no… There’s no harm in having more fighting power…”

–And thus, the party to subjugate the Southern Apostle was born. It was the best possible party against Apostles that could be conceived on this continent in this era.

After that, Uzunami and I traveled south from the border, aiming for Fuziaze’s castle, where the Apostle was likely to be. However, as expected… there were pursuers along the way. First, there was the perfect Chancellor of the North, ‘Thief of the Laws of Wood’, Aid.

“–Lord Uzunami! Why!? Why did you betray us?”

“Aid… I’m sorry, but I have nothing to say to you…”

Uzunami did not respond to the pursuit of the Chancellor of Viais Country.

“Then fight, ‘Ruling King’! You can win even against the Shiso!!”

“Farewell, Aid… I’m going with Uzunami…”

“R-Ruling King!? What do you mean!?”

“In the end, I was just a child…”

“‘Ruling King’! Why!? ‘Ruling King’, ‘Ruling King’, ‘Ruling King’!!!!”

We left behind my younger brother, who called me King until the end.

Then, there was the battle with Nosfy Fuziaze, the ‘Thief of the Principles of Light’, our destined enemy from the South. While hiding through non-war zones and approaching Fuziaze’s castle from behind, a girl shining brightly waited for us in the darkness where no one was.

“Lord… Lord Lord Lord Lorddddddd!!!! Why! Why are you here with Uzunami!?”

“Th-that’s my line…? Why are you here, Nosfy…? You are the flag of hope for the South, so you should be on the front lines!! The South will be in danger!?”

“I don’t want to hear that from you now… Besides, my sole objective is Lord Uzunami… Only him!!”

Her unwavering reply surprised me. The power balance on the battlefield was already chaotic. I thought my turn wouldn’t come for a while, but Nosfy’s appearance was earlier than expected.

“Uzunami, leave this to me.”

I suggested before Uzunami, who would have found it difficult to say.

“…Yeah. Please.”

After a moment’s hesitation, Uzunami ran. Without a word to Nosfy, who was likely pursuing him, he ran without even a glance. Nosfy attempted to chase after him.

“W-wait, Lord Uzunami! Please listen to me! Everything that happened that day was a misunderstanding!! First, let’s talk—!!”

“As always, Nosfy. However, Uzunami is busy, so why don’t you play with me for a bit? It wouldn’t be bad to settle the battle here, would it?”

However, I stepped between them and stopped her. Naturally, Nosfy became enraged.

“Get out of the way! Lorddddd—!!”

Shouting, Nosfy attacked. Her banner clashed with my bayonet.

—My final battle began. And it was also the end of me. Therefore, I don’t know what happened to Uzunami and the Apostles afterward. All I know is the end of Nosfy and myself.

“—Aa, aaa!! Aaa, aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa—!!”

Nosfy roared, becoming a ‘Half-corpse’. The battle between the representatives of the North and South not only ravaged the surroundings but also reached the castle town. The southern capital was collapsing as if struck by a thousand storms. Most of it was thanks to Nosfy, who was supposed to be the savior of the South. Nosfy, roaring like a monster, was no longer in human form.

“Is this a serpent of light—!? No, a half-serpent hybrid!?”

Having unleashed all her power, Nosfy’s lower body had turned into a snake. Fighting on while her life was being eroded by her power exceeding her limits, and being half-dead, she was no longer the ‘Banner of Light’. She was trying to become light itself. But it was still not enough. No matter how much she exceeded her limits, Nosfy was too new as a ‘Thief of Principles’. In contrast, I was the oldest ‘Thief of Principles’. The absolute difference in experience determined the outcome.

“I… I am inferior!? Then, more power—! More and more power—! From this ‘Shaka Hōkan Jin’—!!”

However, Nosfy did not admit defeat. She tried to draw power from a magic circle that had been spread across the continent. But it was an overwhelmingly immense power, and she couldn’t handle it alone.

“No, Nosfy!! You can’t do that—!!”

If this continued, her magic would go berserk, on an unprecedented scale. If left unchecked, it would cause many deaths in the South—no, the continent would be blown away. I was certain of it from the magic imbued in that magic circle. Blowing away the continent meant involving the North as well. I had long since stopped being a king. The North was irrelevant. Now, I was just a traveler. But even so, I couldn’t abandon them. I didn’t want to see innocent people die. That was my nature. With the sole desire to save everyone, I tried to stop Nosfy with all my might.

That battle could no longer be called a human battle. As I also became a ‘Half-corpse’ by exerting my full strength, it turned into a supreme battle between monsters. However, the conclusion of that decisive battle was brought to an end by a third party. Suddenly, the magic circle showed completely different movements and began to swallow Nosfy.

“—What!? Nosfy is self-destructing!? No, she’s being swallowed by the circle!? Could it be that the true purpose of this circle is to capture—no, absorb—us ‘Thieves of Principles’!? Stop interfering with the ‘Magic Circle’, Nosfy! If this continues, we’ll both perish!?”

It had become a devilish magic circle that would melt everything on the continent.

“I won’t stop—!? If this kills ‘Thieves of Principles’ too! Lord must also be suffering! Rather, I see this as an opportunity!! Yes, living positively is my everything! Purely and correctly! If I advance, advance, advance, someday my wish will—!!”

Indeed, my body was also being affected. But Nosfy was in greater danger. “Stop! Don’t you understand I don’t want you to die!”

“Don’t want me to die!? What are you talking about, Lord! We are enemies! Enemies!!”

“No!! If our encounter had been different, we could have become friends!! Yes, if destiny had been even slightly different, anyone could have gotten along!!” I learned that through our battles until today!

“Too late!! Everything is too late! Lord—!!”

—In the end, persuasion was impossible, and we ended up in a mutual kill. No, to be precise, it’s more accurate to say we were both killed by the magic circle… As I was swallowed by the continent, I thought: perhaps the power of this magic circle was Uzunami’s doing. He hated the world, but especially ‘Thieves of Principles’. Perhaps he intended to eliminate both Nosfy and me here from the beginning.

Feeling my body disappear, I mocked myself. Ah, Uzunami truly deceived me… haha… But I was relieved that it was a much better death than I had imagined. Compared to being a king in Viais Castle, it wasn’t that painful. At least, it wasn’t eternal anymore. Escaping eternal suffering was the greatest salvation for me. As I was swallowed by the magic circle, my body turned to dust, and as I disappeared into the darkness, I smiled. Ah, this is death. This is the end. To disappear and become nothing. Honestly, it’s a little scary. But I feel more relieved. Now, I will be free. Finally, everything will end. It will end… finally… To them… I…

Those were my final words.

…Or so I thought.

After some time passed, I noticed something was wrong. In the darkness, my consciousness did not fade even when an eternity seemed to have passed. I remained myself, in a state of nothingness.

…Huh? I should be dead. But why is my consciousness still remaining? I was more scared than confused. The fact that it wasn’t over filled me with dread, and my soul trembled.

…What does this mean? As I pondered this question, the words ‘Labyrinth’ and ‘Guardian’ entered my mind. And, vaguely, information was conveyed to me.

—A ‘Thief of Principles’ who has died becomes a ‘Guardian’ and waits in the ‘Labyrinth’ a thousand years later for those with qualifications. The ‘Guardian’ can then disappear by that qualified person, so please wait until then—

…Is that Uzunami’s voice? The explanation for this inexplicable situation was being given in the voice of my former understanding person.

—The ‘Thieves of Principles’ born from the Apostle are ageless and immortal. As long as there is lingering attachment, they cannot easily die. And among them, Lord Titty’s lingering attachment is strong, which is troublesome—he was told.

…Suddenly, being told about lingering attachment is troublesome. I don’t understand that. …Huh? Then, what I desire? The same question was posed to me again, just like before. But I didn’t understand that either. That’s why I followed Uzunami and died.

…If you don’t understand, then find it? …Remember the past? Even if told so, I have no reason to recall something I don’t understand. But if it means I cannot end unless I find it… I will try. What came to mind immediately was Viais Country, which I had left behind. I was curious whether Viais could win against the South after I was gone. If it had been destroyed because of me, that would be a lingering attachment. Also, if there was anything else I regretted—it was the ‘past’. Naturally, I believe all the answers are in the ‘past’.

In the darkness, I replied to Uzunami so, and received a short “Understood.” Then, I felt Uzunami’s presence receding.

…Wait, Uzunami! Even though I tried to hold onto my only understanding person, I had no body to reach out with. Of course. I no longer had a body. Thus, I was left alone in the darkness. After that, a long yet short period of time passed—and the ‘Heroic Tale’ then led to the ‘Epilogue’. If the period from that betrayal to my death was the ‘Final Chapter’, then the ‘Epilogue’ would be appropriate from here on.

…Ah, that’s right. I wasn’t over yet. Rather, it was just the beginning. From here, my true curse as the ‘Ruling King’ would begin. My breath had long surpassed difficulty; it had stopped. My life, which had accelerated too much, had passed through death at a terrifying falling speed. My body had perished, disappearing without a trace from this world. —But, not yet. The story was not over. A ‘Millennial Epilogue’ remained, the mere thought of which could break my heart. It was an exceedingly long epilogue. A story so long that I no longer wanted to read it. A story that corroded my heart no matter how much I fast-forwarded. A story I tried to forget even to the point of madness. Yet, that story undeniably existed. And I was remembering it…

◆◆◆◆◆

Before long, I found myself sitting. On the throne, dressed in my usual royal attire, I sat as usual. Confused by the sudden awakening of my consciousness, I surveyed the world that appeared in my vision.

“Where is this…?”

The stone walls were lined with extinguished candles. Light, faintly visible through the dust, streamed in from the window. Behind me hung a tapestry symbolizing Viais Country, and an expensive carpet stretched to the entrance. I thought it resembled where I had been before, but soon realized it was different. Viais Castle was an old building. Despite signs of deterioration everywhere, this throne room was too new. Undoubtedly, it had been redone.

“Could this be… the thing called a ‘Labyrinth’?”

I had received an explanation of the Labyrinth in that darkness. And Uzunami had said something about preparing a special space for me, who had strong lingering attachments.

As I confirmed my surroundings, I stood up from the throne and walked. I went to the window and looked out at the world. There, the ‘past’ Viais spread out before me. A world before it was engulfed in flames. It was certainly a world conveniently aligned with my desires.

“But, what should I do…? No, why did I die in the first place…?”

My head felt strangely heavy. My memories were fragmented, and I couldn’t recall the past clearly. However, I could vaguely remember being swallowed by the magic circle during my fight with Nosfy. The memory of my deathbed was indeed impactful. I knew the cause of my death. I also knew where I was. But there was too little explanation. It was unnatural. Looking closely outside, although the Northern countries were there—honestly, it seemed incomplete and unfinished. It wasn’t like the nervous Uzunami. It didn’t seem fitting for the magic of a ‘Thief of the Principles of Dimensions’. Perhaps some accident occurred, and the spatial construction failed. But here, it was undeniably the ‘past’ that I had desired. Viais, which I had left behind, was intact. Uzunami might have some hidden motive that I didn’t understand.

“Then, what I should do is…”

I leaped out the throne room window. Flying through the dark, cloudy sky, I surveyed the buildings. Along the way, I noticed glowing objects scattered in various places in the city. They were magic crystals—magic stones.

“Magic stones? Come to think of it, he said he would apply a new spell called ‘Recall Convergence’ to the Labyrinth… If it’s a Labyrinth, anyone can do it easily… Then, could this perhaps be…?”

I picked up a random magic stone and touched it.

“—!”

Thanks to the explanation I received, I immediately understood what it was. My talent as a ‘Thief of Principles’ also helped me figure out how to use the magic stone.

“The people of Viais who were swallowed by that magic circle have all turned into magic stones and scattered… Does this mean I should use this to restore Viais…? Certainly, with this, any ‘past’ can be reproduced…”

My goal now was to fulfill my lingering attachments and completely disappear. However, I couldn’t be sure of my own attachments. The most immediate lingering attachment I could think of was Viais, which I had left behind. I was undoubtedly concerned about it until the moment of my death… But even so, will ending things here by bringing peace to Viais truly be the end…?

“No, Viais’s peace should be my wish and my duty… No, was it a ‘promise’…? In any case, nothing will begin unless I restore it… First, peace. I have no choice but to tackle things one by one, meticulously.”

I decided to resolve one thing at a time, starting with what came to mind. I gathered the fallen ministers, who had fallen in the castle garden. Then, starting from the throne room, the starting point, I attempted to revive them using the magic stones. I felt the special barrier cast upon this space react. And a miracle that existed only ‘here’ occurred. Magic power from the air gathered around the magic stone, forming a temporary body. This was ‘Recall Convergence’. What absurd magic. However, Uzunami’s absurdity was usual. I calmly watched it.

First person. I revived one of the ministers who had served as my aide.

“Ah, ah… Wh-where is this…?”

He spoke the same words I had uttered upon waking. However, though I revived him without much thought, what ‘time’ would this minister belong to? The answer came quickly.

“Eh, ah, ah! R-Ruling King! You’ve returned!! To Viais!”

If revived as is, they inherited their memories up to that point. Naturally. If I didn’t alter anything, they would be exactly as they were.

“Ah, well, you see…”

“However, ‘Ruling King’! What is this silence…? Could it be that while I was unconscious, ‘Ruling King’ achieved a great success!?”

The minister looked at me, the traitor, with shining eyes. Surprisingly, he still believed in me, despite my fleeing without any explanation. Even though my reason told me otherwise, perhaps due to the accumulation of past events, he couldn’t accept the act of betrayal. I, who was skilled at reading people’s hearts, knew he was asking for an explanation. So, I ended up answering. It was a way of life, a survival technique ingrained in my entire life. To save my fellow demons and make them happy—that was the only reason for my response.

“Ah, ah, of course. The battle is over. The reason I disappeared was to defeat Apostle Sis and Nosfy Fuziaze, the root of all evil in the South…”

“Ah! As expected!?”

The minister’s face filled with joy. To maintain that expression, I pointed outside the window.

“Look outside. There are no enemies ‘here’ anymore. Our demonic bloodline has finally obtained true peace. Ah, from now on, ‘here’ will be peaceful. Since I desire it, it certainly will be.”

I showed him the beautiful townscape, free from the flames of war. Of course, there wasn’t a single soul in sight.

“…However, the situation is a bit unusual. I will explain it quickly.”

Even though I didn’t fully understand everything myself, if the one in charge showed anxiety, it would spread to the subordinates. I made a confident pretense, like a perfect king, to convey that the battle was over and that ‘here’ was the place where Viais’s peace would finally be realized.
This also served as organization for my own information.

Upon hearing the explanation, the retainers were first confused by their own deaths. Understandably, this space, akin to an afterlife, would be unbearable for anyone other than anomalies like the ‘Thief of Principles.’

It took me half a day to quell their confusion, and another half day to make them accept this peculiar situation.

The next day.

I began speaking to my retainers, who had managed to regain their composure, about plans for the future.

“From now on, I will return those who have been turned into magic stones one by one… And then, we will all be reunited, and I will recreate a perfect and happy Viais. That is the last thing I can do as the ‘Ruling King’…”

“…I apologize for my outburst, ‘Ruling King.’ I fully understand your intentions.”

“Mhm…”

Thus, my second re-establishment of ‘Viais’ began. This time, my objective was singular: to see it through to the very end and to be properly killed. The clear goal made me feel lighter. Since it was the second time, things would likely proceed faster.

After making thorough preparations in the throne room, I attempted to revive the second retainer. Again, I chose to revive them as they were, calling forth the last retainer in their current state. Even if I were to continue reviving only the citizens from the peaceful past, I wouldn’t consider it true peace. My citizens needed to be revived in their current form as magic stones and find peace from the depths of their souls. The important thing was that my lingering desire be fulfilled, so I had no intention of letting anyone tamper with their memories.

And then, the second…

The second retainer, regaining consciousness and receiving an explanation of ‘here,’ first cried out to me.

“–AAAAH! There! If you hadn’t withdrawn then, Viais wouldn’t have perished! It wouldn’t have perished, ‘Ruling King’aaaaaa!!”

Words of accusation awaited me. The first retainer had likely died early in the battle, which was why they were calm. However, the second retainer had survived until the end of the battle, accumulating a mountain of resentment.

“…I am sorry.”

There was nothing else I could do but apologize. Honestly, I had felt guilty since I was taken away by Uzunami. I had continuously regretted running away, so I was prepared to atone as their king. However, an unexpected voice interrupted.

“–Wait! It is true that many lives were lost because the ‘Ruling King’ withdrew from the battlefield at that time! However, the King fought until the brink of death elsewhere! You must not blame them for that!”

The first retainer defended me. Hearing this, the second retainer’s momentum faltered.

“Elsewhere… However, if that were the case, wouldn’t there have been a different outcome if you had told us?”

“There were circumstances that prevented me from doing so… Isn’t that right, ‘Ruling King’?”

How was I supposed to answer that? There was only one way to meet such overwhelming expectations.

“…Mhm. Please listen calmly. To my story.”

Upon saying this, the second retainer assumed a posture of honest attentiveness.

A shiver ran down my spine at that sight.

This man, too, was the same. Deep down, he had believed in me. Knowing that this was the only path to salvation, he was expecting an excuse from his King.

I had no choice but to repeat the same explanation. Fortunately or unfortunately, that perfect explanation as their King was sufficiently powerful to appease the second retainer’s anger.

Then came the third day, and the revival of the third retainer. This, too, was a repetition of the previous day. I repeated the same explanation.

Furthermore, the fourth, fifth, and sixth retainers followed, and each time I spoke the same story…

“…Everyone, calmly listen to the ‘Ruling King’s’ words… All of it was done with profound consideration beyond our comprehension…”

For some reason, I was being defended. And so, one by one, my retainers were being saved.

What is this…? This is a farce. But I must do it. It is all for me to disappear.

“Ah, I am truly sorry… ‘Ruling King’… So that’s what happened…”

Before I knew it, I was surrounded by over ten retainers. And I had become a King who had strived for Viais until the very end.

“Ah…”

There was nothing I could do but nod. However, with each nod, a familiar heaviness settled upon my body.

There was no turning back. If I were to tell the truth here, recreating the peace of Viais would become difficult. If that happened, I would never be able to fulfill one of my lingering desires and would be unable to disappear. I had to avoid that at all costs. So, I had no choice but to let it be.

“…Everyone, I am sorry. I could only fight until I took down Nosfy…”

I offered the arrogant excuse that I was forgiven because I had been fighting Nosfy.

“No, it’s alright. Knowing that alone has lifted my spirits. Thank you, ‘Ruling King’…”

And they accepted it. Even though I knew from my past life experience that humans believe what they want to believe, this was too much of a farce. It was so much that I felt the world around me fraying.

–One after another, I peacefully revived the people of the castle.

After several months, a Viais Castle more serene than ever had returned. It was a world where we were not threatened by external enemies, just as when I served the castle as a gardener. It was the world everyone desired during the war and sought until their dying day.

Therefore, it happened. As one retainer offered words of gratitude before me.

“Ah, we have finally arrived… To the ‘paradise’ that all demons aimed for… Thank you, ‘Ruling King’-sama. I have no regrets now…, none at all…, I, a, m–”

A retainer, with the broadest smile imaginable, turned into particles of light. Their entire body transformed into light and ascended into the sky, becoming a star floating in the black sky. It was an impossibly unrealistic and fairytale-like scene, but it was the only way to describe it as death.

“W-what is this…?”

Everyone was surprised by the sudden event. However, I alone immediately grasped the meaning of the scene.

This must be what it means to fulfill one’s lingering desires. Everyone here has much in common with the Guardians. As they can be considered pseudo-‘Guardians,’ their ends are also similar.

It was a visible hope. It was proof that one could find closure simply by letting go of lingering desires.

Immediately, under the guise of acting for the sake of everyone else here, I began investigating the details of this particleization phenomenon. Of course, my true motive was for myself. Through that investigation, I learned that the stars floating in the sky—the magic stones—retained their personalities but not their consciousness. It seemed they were like corpses.

Furthermore, by interfering with the magic stones in the sky, I discovered that I could *recollect and converge* their personalities once more. Since it was impossible for me to fulfill my lingering desire of Viais’ peace without everyone’s smiles, this mechanism brought me immense relief. I was grateful to Uzunami, who had likely set up this system for me.

–Thank goodness. It seems that ‘here’ was indeed created with careful consideration.

As the rules of ‘here’ were gradually unraveled, my own necessary actions became clear. With that in mind, I made a declaration to the revived retainers.

“Everyone, there is no need for concern. Those who have come to accept everything will live out their natural lives and their souls will return to the world. That is all.”

“Acceptance…?”

Some retainers voiced their doubts. I quickly supplemented my explanation.

“Ah, simply put, it means that when you feel truly happy from the bottom of your heart, you can simply end. ‘Here’ is designed so that you will never die with regret again.”

I explained, as if to reassure myself, that there was nothing left to worry about.

“‘Here’ is a world designed to make everyone happy… It is our and Uzunami’s final ‘paradise’.”

“Pa-, ‘paradise’…!”

A ripple of excitement ran through the retainers at that word. It was natural, as it was something everyone had longed for. It was also something I had longed for.

“Of course, it is my responsibility that I could not prepare this during my lifetime. Some may think that a paradise after death is not real. However, I promise that I will make ‘here’ a paradise far greater than the real thing! So, please cooperate with me as well! Together, let us make ‘here’ the most peaceful country in the world–!”

I will definitely complete it. ‘Here’ is the ‘paradise,’ and above all, it is my ‘grave.’ Ah, yes. I had always wanted to return there.

Perhaps sensing my strong will, all the retainers raised their hands and cheered.

“Ahhh, ‘Ruling King’! ‘Ruling King’! ‘Ruling King’!”

“As expected of the ‘Ruling King’! What a flawless plan!”

“Finally! We can finally reach it! The true peace!!”

“To the ‘paradise’ that everyone aspired to! There, we will be happy without being threatened by anyone!!”

“Our ‘Ruling King’! ‘Ruling King’! ‘Ruling King’!!”

The voices were painful to my ears. I felt nauseous. But for now, I would endure it. It was all to fulfill my lingering desires—to finally die completely.

“Alright, if that’s decided, let’s act immediately! Next is outside the castle, isn’t it? Let’s bring back the townspeople! All for the sake of creating the ‘paradise’ in the North!!”

And so, I led my retainers and began the reconstruction efforts in the town below the castle. However, the sheer volume of magic stones here was incomparable to that of the castle. It would be a task spanning many long years.

–Day by day, no, year after year, I would aim for ‘paradise.’

During that time, I was repeatedly glared at and cursed by the revived populace. I was even stoned and stabbed with blades. However, I accepted it all as the ideal king, for the sake of fulfilling my lingering desires.

Despite being verbally abused, I continuously apologized with patience. Though I shed blood, I endured the pain and continued to offer explanations. Still, there were many who could not let go of their resentment. The cries of those citizens sounded as if they came from the very depths of hell.

“–Ahhhh, Aaaaah, Aaaaah!! If only the ‘Ruling King’-sama had been there thenaaaa!! I won’t forgive you, I won’t forgive you, I won’t forgive you, I can’t forgive youeeeeeeeee–”

There were times I spent months trying to appease the maddened citizens. But without losing heart, I spoke to each person, carefully, day by day. Once the Viais castle town was finished, I moved on to the surrounding villages. After that, even to neighboring countries. To create ‘paradise,’ it was necessary to revive and bring peace to the entire North.

As a result of this painstaking work, peace began to be established, centered around Viais. Simultaneously, voices praising my name echoed throughout the world.

“Our ‘Ruling King’ did not betray us.” “Ah, of course, ‘Ruling King’-sama was indeed ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama is the greatest king to rule the North!” “A legendary hero who appeared to create the ‘paradise’ of demons!” “Ah, ‘Ruling King’-sama.” “‘Ruling King’-sama has returned! It was all as the legends foretold!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!”

My face contorted. My expression hardened. It felt like my old wounds were being reopened. I realized that thanks to Uzunami, I had escaped, but I was now returning to that state. No, I was falling. I felt like I was falling once again into the abyss. I recognized this sensation of time accelerating. It was the feeling of myself being chipped away.

The speed of my descent was too fast, making me breathless… But this time, there was a goal. If I could reach the bottom again, I could die. Knowing that, I could endure. I could still try my best…

–And so, while an unending chorus of praise and cheers continued, nearly ten years passed, and I had completely returned to my state from before my death. Burdened by infinite expectations, my entire body felt impossibly heavy. My consciousness blurred, and time seemed to accelerate. Despite the world accelerating as if I were falling, I continued to be a flawless king without a single mistake. I became a being solely dedicated to creating peace.

Once again, I became the ‘Ruling King,’ and today, as every day, I would lead new citizens to happiness, to bring peace to the world.

“–Ah, ‘Ruling King’-sama, thank you! With this, we can finally live in a peaceful world!”

“Ah, I am also grateful. Seeing more happy citizens is my happiness…”

With decades of experience honed by time, my responses became automatic. My replies were perfect. However, my consciousness was muddled. Everything was accelerating. It felt the same as when I was alive. My head was swimming as if I had a cold. My mind wasn’t dulled, so the throbbing dizziness was distinctly perceptible, which was unsettling. My sense of balance was lost, and I felt like everything was upside down—even though gravity pulled downward, I felt like I was falling into the darkness of the inky sky—gradually, I felt like my feet were stuck to the ground, as if I were hanging on—I felt like I could fall into the sky at any moment, and my heart was filled with anxiety—

Breaking through the nausea, I started to lose track of what I was doing. In the end, I sometimes wondered:

…Why am I playing the role of King again?

I knew. I was playing the King to stop being the King. But if I was doing the King’s work, I could never stop. That was obvious. Perhaps I should stop being the King right now, but to stop being the King, I had to be it. I understood, but it was becoming incomprehensible…

Perhaps because I had been playing the King for decades beyond my limits after my death, my body felt impossibly heavy. My body was heavy. So heavy, so heavy, so heavy… It was agonizingly heavy and painful…

Then, my vision distorted. Perhaps I had let my guard down in the empty throne room.

“Ah, was that…? Why…? Why are tears…?”

They wouldn’t stop. Large tears streamed down from my eyes. I couldn’t let anyone see this. I quickly hid behind the throne. There, I somehow tried to stop my overflowing tears. I desperately told myself that this was necessary to die. It might be a painful task, but it was all just a matter of enduring until my lingering desires were fulfilled. Once I had apologized to all the citizens and transformed the North into a paradise of peace, atoning for my sins—this time, I could die with satisfaction, without a single worry or lingering desire. I could finally die. This time, I would truly die and be finished. So, I had to try. Just a little longer. Try, try…! Try, try, try, try…! Repeating that in my mind, I wiped away the flowing tears. Then, the perfect ‘Ruling King’ emerged from behind the throne. To lead the North to peace, the ‘Ruling King’ would go out from the castle to save the people today. Thus, another year, another year, another year passed—…

“Thank you, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “Those of us who were oppressed in the South could live ‘here’…!” “Thanks to ‘Ruling King’-sama, we’ve reached ‘paradise’!!” “Our deceased friends would surely be happy too!” “We must be happy for their sake!” “We’ll surely tell them someday that it’s all thanks to ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “Yes, thanks to ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!”

–Amidst the cheers, where I could no longer even discern what I was being praised for,

“U, uuu, uuuu…, uuuu–!!”

Once again, I wept alone behind the throne. The cursed voices accompanying the revival of my people were indeed hurting my heart—and the voices of expectation from everyone were pouring salt on these new wounds. Everyone probably believed that the ‘Ruling King’ would be fine, but that wasn’t the case. I couldn’t help but cry.

I couldn’t let anyone see me crying. To be absolutely sure, I made it so that no one could enter the castle. I dismissed my retainers and knights. It was easy to get them to accept it by saying there were no more enemies. Now, all the citizens were enjoying peace. And all the citizens were grateful to the ‘Ruling King.’

“Ahhh, thank you, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “Our ‘Ruling King’-sama is perfect!” “The ‘Ruling King’-sama is working hard for us! We too should strive to lead the way to peace!!” “Ah, as expected of ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “As long as ‘Ruling King’-sama is here, there is nothing to worry about!” “‘Ruling King’ is the true king! I am happy to have served the true king!” “‘Ruling King’! Our ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!”

“U, uuu, uuuu…! I must endure…, this is to end…! It’s to end, buttttt, ahhh, ahhh, ahhh…!!”

It’s too loud. It’s unbearably loud. I couldn’t stand it anymore and started walking around the castle. Anywhere far away. Somewhere where I couldn’t hear these voices. With that single thought, I walked like a lost child. Stumbling, I hit my head against the wall, falling repeatedly, yet I kept walking. In the end, I arrived at the castle’s library. I thought it would be quiet where books were kept, but the cheers could still be heard. Trying to escape even further, I found a door in the back of the library. I immediately opened the door and entered. The room was… a ‘storage room.’ What was stored there were paintings. Paintings of the ‘Ruling King,’ the master of this Viais Castle, were lined up in countless numbers. A king wearing a crown, his green hair flowing, with a proud expression. It was my image from others’ perspectives. It was myself I most refused to acknowledge standing there.

“Ah, ahh, ahhh…!! Ahhhhaaa, ahhhhaaaaaaaahhhh—-!!”

I let out a scream. But still, the cheers reached me. I had reached my limit. My body, which had been acting like the king automatically, began to rampage with overwhelming emotion.

“–No! No, no, no!! This isn’t me! This isn’t me—-!! It’s not the real meeeeee!!”

I grabbed paintings at random and slammed them onto the ground. I tore at my own perfect expression with my nails. I broke the expensive frames before throwing them against the wall and smashing them. I trashed it, trashed it, trashed it, and tore everything apart.

“Haaah, haaah, haaah! Hiuu, haa, haaah!!”

I was breathless. Despite having monstrous stamina, I was inexplicably out of breath. No matter how much air I inhaled, it was like drowning in water and I felt suffocated.

“Hyu, hyuu! –Hyu! Ha, ha, hah!!”

Why? Even though I’m inhaling so much. I’m inhaling so much that I don’t even know if I’m exhaling, but the suffocation won’t disappear. If anything, it feels like the air in my lungs is escaping. It’s painful. Ah, I can’t breathe. If this continues… I’ll break… I’ll lose myself and my body will be taken over by a being called ‘Ruling King’… Repeating the same thing over and over, I became confused as to what I was doing.

When is it now? How long have I been trying? Since when have I been playing the King? When did I die on the ground?

“Ah, ahh, ahh…”

Groaning like a ghoul, I left the storage room. Conveniently, there was a library here. I searched for books written about me and read them. It was the history of Viais and the heroic tales of the ‘Ruling King.’ As I read, my hands began to tremble. I was astonished by the weight of the life I had lived until today—no, by its utter emptiness. The answer obtained by calculating the year of the heroic tales’ beginning and the year of death was—

That’s absurd… Am I over a hundred years old…? That can’t be right! This body! Since that day, nothing has changed! Yet, I’ve become older than that old couple!? More mature than those two?! I can’t believe it!! I still want to cry and rely on them!!

“Ah, ahh…, ahh…”

It makes no sense. I’m a hundred-year-old grandmother…? I don’t feel it. I still think of myself as a child. Perhaps it’s because I spent so long in a period where I didn’t feel like myself. Ah, it’s undoubtedly because of that time acceleration. It feels like I’ve skipped through time. And then, I understood that my fear was serious. I, a girl named Titty, was being increasingly invaded by the ‘Ruling King,’ a being named King. My very existence was being devoured with an unpleasant grinding sound. I was ceasing to be myself. That felt repulsive, unbearable! Like carnivorous insects crawling on my bare skin—unbearably unpleasant!!

“Ah, ahh…, ahh, ahhhhaaaaaaa!!”

I’m going mad. My body and soul are breaking though they cannot die. If that happens, I cannot fulfill my lingering desires. I must not let that happen. No. I have to do something—

“Y-yes! If I use the ‘Incantation’ that Uzunami taught me, I can interfere with the spirit… If I slightly alter the ‘Incantation’… perhaps I can remove this unpleasantness with this ‘Price’…”

Perhaps I was no longer sane. I reached out for something I knew I shouldn’t touch.

“–‘I do not choose the path I walk’ ‘I am the wind.’ ‘I continue to walk through all the world’ ‘I remember wishing for that’—”

Wind ‘Incantations’ often lighten the heart. Lightening the heart—is equivalent to whittling it away. My heart, more important than my flesh, was being gouged out with a knife. It couldn’t possibly be normal. But it was necessary for me now. It was necessary to shave away my abnormal parts. And I would sublimate the ‘Incantation.’ I would devise an ‘Incantation’ for myself, to slay not ‘I’ but ‘I’ (the female pronoun). I knew that the true essence of ‘Incantation’ was to express everything about oneself with words meant only for oneself.

“–‘Accelerate’,” I said. It came out of my mouth naturally. It was me right now. By saying it, I wanted to expel everything from my body.

“‘Accelerate’, ‘Accelerate’ ‘Accelerate’ ‘Accelerate’. …’I am a soul that accelerates’.” I spun my life from the depths of my heart. Through that ‘Incantation,’ everything became lighter. I was temporarily freed from unbearable anxiety and fear.

“Ah, ahh, aha, hahaha…! Yes! ‘It accelerated’! No, ‘Accelerate’ ‘Accelerate’ ‘Accelerate’—! ‘Accelerate and end it all’! ‘Quickly, faster’! ‘Accelerate’! ‘Hit my head while accelerating’! ‘Die’! ‘End quickly’! Ahaha, ahahahahahah—-!!!!”

I rejoiced as my once-heavy body became as light as a feather. I knew I was shaving off something very precious. But it made me feel so much better. The sensation of living in a confined box disappeared, and I felt like I was truly living in a vast world. It felt like clean air was seeping into my lungs, which had been suffocating. Ah, it feels good… Through this forbidden pleasure, I could maintain myself for a little while longer. I, I have no choice but to do this. I’m more afraid of going mad than of the ‘Price.’ So, I will shave and shave, and forget my fear. Otherwise, I won’t be able to hold on… For now, I can only think about disappearing. I won’t question the means to achieve it. It’s my lingering desire. Once I fulfill this lingering desire, I can end it, so it doesn’t matter what I pay as a ‘Price.’ Anyway, I will disappear eventually. Whether it’s me, ‘here,’ or anything else. What’s wrong with shaving it away? What’s wrong with making it lighter?

“‘Accelerate, accelerate, accelerate’… I will die… I will disappear quickly. Surely, just a little more…, just a little longer…”

I will do anything to disappear. Saying those words, I left the library and then the castle. And I performed my usual daily ritual. It was alright now. If I felt distressed, I could use the wind ‘Incantation.’ By repeating regeneration and ‘Price,’ it would eventually end. –End. So, today, I continued to revive my citizens. I continued with regeneration, apologies, persuasion, and gratitude. In parallel, I rebuilt the country and created complete peace. Muttering the ‘Incantation,’ I repeated it as if it were an obligation. Repeating and repeating, and repeating and repeating, repeating, repeating and repeating—and in proportion, the passage of time ‘accelerated’—repeating and accelerating, accelerating, repeating and accelerating and accelerating—because I continued to repeat the same thing, the world felt like a fast-forward recording—but thanks to that—finally—

–Finally, after a hundred years, the end arrived. I apologized to nearly a hundred thousand citizens of the North, secured their acceptance, and the world entered an era of peace. It was perfect. There was not a single person who held a grudge. Of course, there were no external enemies. It had become the ideal Northern countries. Nothing more could be asked for. The perfect world I had imagined as the ‘Ruling King’ was complete.

“–Ah! Everyone, I thank you…! Finally, ‘here’ is complete! Truly! The final ‘paradise’ by demons has been completed ‘here’–!!”

I declared to the people gathered at the castle. And the cheers returned. I no longer understood what they were saying. I only knew that they were calling my name.

–“‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!” “‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama, ‘Ruling King’-sama!”–!!
The name alone echoed in my mind as if to brainwash me.

Of course, I went to inform not only the castle but also the town below it. I visited the surrounding towns, the isolated villages, and even the neighboring countries allied with the North. I went around making my declaration.

At the same time, half of the people vanished. I watched, smiling, as it happened. However, for the sake of those who remained, I had to bring back those who had lost their souls. For the other half of the people still here, peace had to be maintained under the guise of ensuring its continuation.

And so, the northern countries rejoiced in peace. Little by little, the people returned to the sky.

Everything was going very smoothly. But why? I had a bad feeling in my gut. My “Thief of Principles” power was not diminishing at all.

“Ahhh, I understand now—! I’m so glad we are citizens of the ‘Ruling King’s’ country!!”
“This peaceful world is exactly the nation we aimed for…! ‘Paradise’…!!”
“I’m content. I’m content I was able to witness this peace before the end…”

While I was plagued by this premonition, the people with souls visibly dwindled. One by one, the dwindling remaining people returned to the sky and fell asleep—

—And, to the best of my ability to confirm, all of my people finally became stars.

“Ah, ah… Finally… finished…?”

From a high point in the castle, I looked down at the town below, inhabited by soulless, wandering people. I surveyed the country once more. A peaceful world spread out before me. Viais, enjoying peace without their hearts threatened by battle, existed ‘here’.

And I was the only one left in the country. I, with my overwhelmingly dense soul, was left all alone in the castle.

“Ah, that…?”

A sense of emptiness washed over me before any sense of accomplishment. ‘Here’ was the ‘paradise’ I had longed for. It was a treasure I had worked tirelessly for in my life, yet could never obtain.

But something was wrong. I felt nothing. My “Thief of Principles” power hadn’t diminished at all. I didn’t feel like I could disappear with a smile like everyone else.

Perhaps it was because I didn’t feel like I had fulfilled my lingering desires, but for a moment, something ‘terrible’ flashed through my mind. Once this was over, I couldn’t think of what to do next. The means to fulfill my lingering desires would become zero.

Perhaps, I alone—

I alone—?

“—Hyu, hyuu! Haah, haah, haah, haah!! —‘Accelerate’ ‘Accelerate’ ‘Accelerate’! ‘I am an accelerating soul’!!”

I almost stopped breathing. But by chanting, I repelled that ‘worst-case scenario’. That couldn’t be. It was probably a lack of time. There were others besides me who were taking time to completely disappear. Those who had high compatibility with magic power during their lives. They were still here. And I was among the top class in terms of compatibility. I probably had to savor this peace for longer than ordinary people.

“Hah… haha… That’s right. That’s how it must be… Haha…”

So—come on, feel more. Laugh more. Enjoy more. This is peace. This must be my lingering desire, right? I’ve forgotten who wanted it, but it’s the peace I’ve always aimed for. So, laugh, I… To be satisfied… Laugh more…

I left the castle and went out into the town. To further savor the best country I had created. Because, ‘here’ is ‘paradise’. It’s my treasure, obtained over a hundred years.

“—My… treasure…? Haha, this is my treasure…?”

As I spoke, my voice naturally began to tremble. Does it shine…? Can I call this world, which has no color, a treasure…?

The bustling town, filled with various demons passing by. Not a single one wore a dangerous weapon or armor; everyone was laughing without any worries. Regardless of age or gender, they enjoyed peace that could continue eternally, without suffering from hardship in life.

However, most of them lacked substance. A peace devoid of any substance. At that fact, I stood dumbfounded.

Then, a soulless child, with the automated role it was assigned, casually spoke to me. In this peaceful world, one could easily interact with the King, which was a great thing. But now, after sending so many souls away—

“What’s wrong, King!? You look a little pale!”
“Ah, ah… You think so…?”
“Let’s laugh more! We don’t have to fight anyone anymore!”

A hollow doll was smiling. But there was no soul within it. Therefore, I felt nothing but creepiness.

“Haha, that’s right… You’re right…”

If this girl is a doll, then what am I, laughing back at her? This is like a child playing with dolls all by myself.

“Hmm… You seem a little down. The King’s way of speaking sounds like Grandma’s, so maybe you sound tired? Hey, King, talk like me! Then you’ll naturally feel better!”
“No, but… As King—”
“You’re the King, but there’s no need to be so solemn anymore! Because it’s peaceful here!”

The girl spread her arms wide. Truly, it was as she said… Here, I am no longer…

“Th-That’s right. Indeed, there’s no need to act like a King anymore… We don’t have to fight anyone, or rather, ‘here’, there is no one else…”
“Yeah! It’s peaceful!”
“It has become so peaceful…”
“Yes! All thanks to you, King! And even if something were to happen, the King would surely handle it!”
“Ah, ah, of course…!”

Being reminded as if to emphasize it, my status as King was confirmed. Even the dolls seemed to have expectations of me. Which was terribly frightening.

“Hmm. Uh, you’re not allowed to say ‘because’ anymore!”
“Of course… you can’t…?”
“That’s right!”

Changing how I spoke was fine. Besides, didn’t I have any attachment to it…? Or couldn’t I remember that either? Perhaps because I had been here for too long, I was starting to forget my life before. It was only natural. Another hundred years had passed. My attachment from childhood… was too far in the past…

“King! Play with me!”
“Ah, ah… Right… That wouldn’t be bad either.”

No, don’t think about it anymore. I had decided to savor the peace earlier. It was highly likely to be my lingering desire. This kind of ‘peaceful world’ had always been stuck in my heart. So, let’s play more. By playing with these children in this peace, I would surely be satisfied. I would be convinced. I could disappear like everyone else. I would disappear. I was sure to disappear. Because, I now had no other lingering desires to speak of. Therefore, this was the only way to disappear. I would definitely disappear. Believing so—

—Two hundred years passed in my life ‘here’.

My sense of time was not just dulled; it was completely broken. Yesterday felt like ten years ago, and ten years ago felt like yesterday. Yet, I would suddenly remember something from a hundred years ago, but because my appearance remained unchanged, it would feel like yesterday. It was utterly confusing.

The speed at which time passed accelerated. It was an acceleration akin to falling, as if rolling down a slope, I would live another hundred years as a single person. Again, repeatedly, repeatedly, repeatedly, repeatedly repeatedly repeatedly repeatedly repeatedly repeatedly… it continued to ‘accelerate’—

“—Hey. Are you okay, King?”

My familiar playmate worried about me every day.

“I-It’s okay… Because children are happy… ‘Here’ is so peaceful. It’s a world for me, which I’ve been searching for my whole life…”

Returning a smile, I thought to myself in a hidden corner of my mind.

—Still not yet?

Because I repeated “Still not yet?” in my mind countless times, my complexion was poor every day. Yes. Every day. For two hundred years, every single day…!! Ah, perhaps, I wouldn’t be able to disappear like this and would truly suffer for eternity—

—N-No, that’s not it! It’s fine. If it comes to it, I can go to the surface. I was just a little bored, so I found the door to the dungeon outside right away. If I go through there and aim upwards, to the surface—

—What would I do if I left ‘here’? The surface, unlike ‘here’, is not conveniently designed. It’s a world that is simply unreasonable. Everyone is at each other’s throats, surrounded by enemies, and they continue an endless battle. That is the original world. Walking in such a world, I couldn’t possibly refrain from helping others. And if my ‘power to steal principles’ were discovered, I would undoubtedly be forced to fight somewhere again. Once it was known that I was the strongest in a group, I would inevitably be expected to do more. In the end, there was a high chance of becoming King again. Not out of arrogance, but because I had the power to be certain of it. I didn’t think I could refuse it. If I had that kind of personality, I wouldn’t be like this.

Furthermore, perhaps there was a possibility that someone who knew me from my childhood was still alive on the surface. If I met someone I knew, I would undoubtedly become the ‘Ruling King’ again. It’s the same. Even if I went to the surface, I would only meet the same end. I didn’t want that. It’s not that I thought everyone was bad. Because, people are creatures who expect things. It can’t be helped. But I didn’t like it. Therefore, I had to make do with ‘here’ instead of the surface. If I could somehow be convinced ‘here’, and get rid of my lingering desires…

Thinking so, I continued to repeat. Repeatedly, repeatedly, repeatedly repeatedly accelerated, repeatedly accelerated, accelerated, repeatedly repeatedly repeatedly accelerated, accelerated, accelerated, repeatedly—

—And then, three hundred years passed.

Today, too, I woke up in the castle and walked through the peaceful Viais. It’s become a daily routine… no, it’s an automatic action now. …A little while ago, I wanted to do something about this situation. But now, I don’t even care about it anymore. Because thinking about it is painful. So, I have no choice but to play. Today, I will play like a child again. Because it is so much fun.

“–Hahaha, Lord! As expected!”
“Fufu, right? Children can do even more amazing things!”

It’s fun to do things I couldn’t do while I was King. By playing, playing, playing, playing, I feel a little bit saved.

“Hey, Lord! Let’s draw together!”
“Okay! Children, you know, are good at drawing!!”

Living as a child ‘here’ isn’t bad. It’s not good, but it’s not bad… So, this is fine.

“Done!”
“Oh, nice! Hey, Bess. Is that your father and mother?”
“Yeah, my precious Papa and Mama. And over here…”
“I see. Grandpa Volz!”
“Yeah, my beloved Grandpa!”
“Then… what about the King?”
“I drew my family too!”
“Wow, that’s a beautiful place.”

Beautiful? Maybe because my vision is blurry, I can’t even recognize what I’ve drawn. It’s not just a black and white world without color; I can’t even see the lines clearly. What did I draw? In this state, what beautiful thing could I have possibly drawn? If there’s something missing ‘here’, I want to know. But due to the accelerating world, I can’t even see it—

“Ah, since we’re at it, let’s put it in a frame! I think Grandpa had one at his mansion!”
“Fufufu! Then I’ll bring one from my castle! My frame is more beautiful than Bess’s house, you know!”
“Really!?”
“Of course!”

No, that’s fine too. I don’t want to think about anything… I’m tired… I want to rest… ‘Here’ is beautiful… It can be called ‘paradise’… Without a doubt, I think I have finally reached something similar to what I had sought. It should be comparable to the ‘beautiful stone’ I dropped that day. No, rather, it’s its superior version. It can be called a world of ‘beautiful jewels’. A perfect ‘paradise’. If so, this should be fine now… I don’t need anything more…

—I can’t try anymore.

I gave up. The moment I abandoned being myself. With that, the acceleration of my perception of time accelerated even more. Acceleration layered upon acceleration, the world falls faster and faster. A world that continues to ‘accelerate’.

—And then, four hundred, five hundred years pass.

I lived unchanging days. I repeated them. I could no longer perceive time. In this world of shattered time, I, too, laugh innocently today. It is no longer a habit or a way of surviving, but rather, it has become me. The ‘Ruling King’ without a soul laughs today.

“It’s peaceful today, isn’t it? Lord.”
“Ah, my country is peaceful today…! Working as a ‘gardener’ in this peaceful country is so ea—…”
“Easy, you say—… Hmm? Lord, are you slacking off?”
“I-I’m not slacking off! That’s a terrible thing to say!!”
“But you always seem to be playing… Even though you’re an adult…”
“Everyone says so, so I’m cleaning the paths like this! I’m good at this kind of maintenance! I’m as good as a professional!!”
“Fufu, that’s right. Thanks to you, Lord, Viais is so beautiful!”
“See! ‘Here’ is so beautiful!”

…………… ………………………………..

…Tired. I don’t want to think about anything. In this state of accelerating, accelerating, and accelerating—

I started to think that eternity wouldn’t be so bad ‘here’. I decided to eternally play the role of a child who plays without thinking. That way, I, too, would become an automatically operating doll. I could live peacefully with everyone for eternity. If there was eternity, I would eventually be able to disappear. If eternity didn’t work, then no matter what I did would have been in vain. So, this solves everything. What more can I do? Without a doubt, it was resolved—meaning, it was the end. This is the end. My end.

Ah, it wasn’t a life worth living. I fought and lived as a king, gaining nothing, and died. Even after death, I rushed around as a king, gained nothing, and became lonely. In the first hundred years, I became confused, and in the next two hundred years, I broke myself and disappeared. After three hundred years, I exceeded the acceptable range for human life and reverted to a child. By the four hundredth year, I could no longer perceive the world. When I reached five hundred years, I had become a being that could no longer be called alive. From six hundred years onward, I had no memories left. Since I was no longer alive, nothing remained.

I probably have no substance left. I have a soul, but it has weathered away and is completely still. Since I cannot perceive the world, time just passes as if after waking from sleep. The days pass too quickly. My consciousness cannot keep up with the speed. Time accelerates as if falling off a cliff, accelerating, accelerating, accelerating, accelerating—

—And then, I hit the bottom of the earth.

But I still cannot die. I cannot disappear…

…………… ………………………………..

This bottomless abyss is orderly and beautiful. Therefore, I believe that ‘here’ will gently make me disappear someday. Thus, I live for another seven hundred, eight hundred, nine hundred years. Living happily, playing, and laughing in the peaceful ‘here’. However—

—It is painful to occasionally regain my sanity. While I want to remain broken, my consciousness returns as if recalling something. At that time, I am shocked, frightened, and tremble at the years that have passed unnoticed, and I almost cry like a child. I no longer want to cry. I hate sadness. I just wanted to keep laughing… why did it turn into this…? Was what I wanted so grand? Was it this difficult? What I wanted was…—

The ‘beautiful stone’ I found that day in the grassland. It was just a ‘pebble’…

I can never get it back—

◆◆◆◆◆

I can never get it back. And, a thousand years later.

“Aaah, aaaaaah, aaaaaahh, aaaaaaaAAAAAAAaaaAAAAaaaAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAA————!!!! Ah, aaaaaaaAAAAaaaAAAAaaaAAAaaAAAAAaaaaaAAAAAAA————!!!!”

Realizing this, I was temporarily pulled from my dream back to reality. I escaped from the power of the magic, “Dimensional War Calculation ‘Prologue’” by Uzunami. That magic’s power was immense. It showed me my memories up until I met Uzunami—it showed me my story.

Ah, that is my life. A worthless life! A life I wanted to die and erase, to make as if it never happened, but could not! A life that cannot be reset! Its conclusion is ‘here’—!!

In a thousand years, I destroyed the peaceful Viais I had created with my own hands, and the world became nothingness. Even now, ‘here’, I am accelerating further, falling further. I am still running towards the abyss. All acceleration does not stop!

“KAAAA, NAAaaAAA, MIIIiiIIIiiiiIIIIIIIIIIIIIiiiiIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII————!!!!”

I shouted the name of the one who made me remember the past as if cursing him. I glared at the black-haired, black-eyed man who had his hand in my chest. How! What a hateful memory you made me recall—!! Ah, what a malicious magic! What a cowardly attack! My body, my mind, no, my soul is being torn apart! I am losing consciousness from phantom pain!! Ahhh, ah, ah, aaaaaaaaAAAAAAA————!!!!

“Don’t show me anymore, Uzunami!! I already know I’m insane! I know it, so stop it! —That’s why! Right now, I need you and Rainer!! To disappear, to slightly make up for what’s missing ‘here’—!! To be convinceddddddddddddddddddddd!!!!! Aaaah, aaaaah, aaaaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAA————!!!!”

By shouting, I try to make my consciousness clearer. However, the damage etched into my soul cannot be hidden. Indeed, for me, the memory of living as a king is a ‘wound’. It is the ‘old wound’ I least want to be touched. My soul screams as that ‘old wound’ is gouged out. As my soul is deeply wounded, my body judges it to be on the verge of death and begins to mutate. It is the ‘curse’ that arises when ‘Thieves of Principles’ die. It is a ‘curse’, but undoubtedly the strongest power.

“Aaah, aaaaaah, aaaaaahh, aaaaaaaAAAAAAAaaaAAAAaaaAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAA————!!!!”

Inside the cocoon of wind, I ‘become half-dead’ as if emerging from a chrysalis. First, the magical disguise melts away. The emerald wings, made by condensing wind, vanish, revealing my shabby, inherent wings. Those wings, overused, were so damaged they could no longer fly. Then, my characteristics as a monster come to the fore. Feathers begin to grow from my ears, hands, and feet, becoming new wings. Some mistook this form for the legendary ‘Winged Humans’. They expected a reappearance of the legendary ‘Ruling King’. But no. It was nothing so grand. If I were to name a similar monster, it would be a Harpy. To be precise, in terms of demon names, it would be a mutated half-bird person. Yes. I am a common Harpy mixed-blood! A half-demon, half-beast person! Nothing legendary! But, even so, I am the ‘Ruling King’! Even so, I am a legendary Winged Human! An angel of heaven! A reincarnation of legend! Yes—I have ‘become’ that!!

“Uzunami!!IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII————!!!!”

As I approach ‘half-death’, power surges from my body. Using that power, I strike back at the enemy who is gripping my soul. Because I am touched in the most vulnerable spot, even a slight movement causes excruciating pain. However, my anger at the man before me overwhelms it. Ah, how, how, how! What magic you have forced upon me!! Uzunami is a coward! As always, you fight cowardly!! I refuse to acknowledge this as fighting! I refuse!! Slowly, I extend both my arms to the neck of Uzunami before me. At that moment, Uzunami, who had been gritting his teeth, shouted with a voice that could rival my roar.

“—Don’t moveeeeee!!!! Not yet! My magic isn’t over yet! From here! The important part starts from here! We’re going back further! We’re going back together, Rowen!!!!”

What are you saying? There is no ‘further’. There is no place to return to. That’s why it’s ‘here’. ‘Here’ is the end. I can’t go anywhere anymore.

“Further!!!! Returning!? Where are you going to return to!? ‘Here’ is my everything, isn’t it!!!!”
“No! ‘Here’ is not everything! You have a past that has sustained you to this point! That lingering desire exists in the past! You’ve just forgotten it!! Ah, because you became a ‘Thief of Principles’!! Because of the ‘Price’ of that sin, you’ve lost it—!!”
“Wh-What—”

—What nonsense are you talking about. As I intended to retort, my words stopped when I looked at Uzunami’s face. The enemy before me had the same expression. Twisted in agony, screaming from his soul. And I understood the reason for his torment. As if there were a ‘connection’, I was able to know Uzunami’s inner state. Right now, Uzunami is suffering. The reason is that Uzunami, who cast the magic, also experienced my life’s memories. Therefore, Uzunami here understands my life better than anyone. Uzunami, my understanding supporter—I remembered those words from my life. When the memory-lost Uzunami fell ‘here’, I thought there was no one left to understand me. I thought Uzunami would pretend he saw nothing and flee ‘here’—I couldn’t forgive him. But now. Uzunami is facing the past, trying to understand me. To no longer run away from the past, he is trying to regain his memories. From the ‘connection’, I could feel his resolve. Not only that. I also felt the entirety of the magic, “Dimensional War Calculation ‘Prologue’”, that he cast on me. If he had wanted to, he could have killed me instantly. But Uzunami did not choose that; he chose to reminisce together. By sacrificing the life of his most precious younger sister, and his own precious future, he is extending a hand to me, this broken being.

My hand, stretched towards Uzunami’s neck, stopped. And I repeated Uzunami’s words.

“M-My lingering desire…?”

A lingering desire that should have existed in the past. Where is ‘further’…? Does it mean beyond the present memory…? That is a story that predates the story of the ‘Ruling King’. A place more than Viais. Not a king, not a gardener—much more in the past! That means, during my childhood. Ah, I always knew it. My instincts desired it. To be a child is wonderful—I always thought so. Why is that?

“Further…?” Ah, ah, ahhh…!!

My blurry vision intensifies. No, it’s light. The light of magic-induced reminiscence is engulfing me. A world beyond the orphanage. That world was too dazzling for my eyes now, grown old. But that dazzle did not hurt my eyes. Rather, it was comfortable. A warm light. It is time that is not recorded in my heroic tale. But it was time that existed within my life. No matter how hard I tried to remember, it was too far away, beyond shadow or form. Memories from millions of days ago, from the distant past. A fleeting, faint scene, like a dream. But it existed. It truly existed. And now, I am finally starting to remember it. …I remember. It was a grassland. Yes. And next to that grassland, there should have been a house with a gabled roof.

There, I—no, two children lived. At the moment I remembered that, the passage of time began to stagnate. It began to slow down, so slowly. The lines of the world, which I couldn’t recognize due to being blurred, became clear. The world gained color. Beyond that light was not emerald—but grass green. It was a vast grassland. Ah, I want to see more. Uzunami, please let me see. Remind me with that magic. Help me, who has become a ‘Thief of Principles’. That ‘paradise’. That ‘beautiful stone’. That—my wonderful childhood, for me—…

“—, —! ——————!!!”

And as I accepted Uzunami’s magic from the bottom of my heart, I heard a voice from afar. A very old… rasping voice. While in the daze of light, I pick up that voice. It was like a newborn infant reflexively grasping its mother’s finger.

“—Oh! Old woman, it seems she’s awake!”

What shook my eardrums was the voice of my family. A forgotten voice. But I remembered its unique way of speaking. I had kept it safe, vowing not to forget. Ah, I remember. The owner of that voice. No, the owners of that voice—…!!

I will post three consecutive updates. As before, two more will be added at 24:00 today. For now, I’ll post everything until the bright part.