We live at the foothills of Dragon Peak.
Kindred spirits.
“Sniffle, sniffle.”
“There, there, Oz. You were scared, weren’t you?”
“That’s not it! I’m sad that you deceived me!”
“I didn’t deceive you at all, though?”
Oz, whom I dug up, soon regained consciousness. However, he must have had a terrifying experience, because he’s been crying while petting his face with his cute front paws.
Priscilla-chan is stroking Oz’s back. But it doesn’t look like she’s comforting him, more like she’s petting a cute animal.
“Meow.”
“Eek!”
Nimiah, who read my mind, meowed in agreement. And Oz flinched.
Apparently, Nimiah, resembling Asher, also got scared.
“Was the rough treatment too much, meow?”
“It seems so. I’m sorry, Oz. But truly, Nimiah and Asher are both cute and kind?”
“Don’t lump me in there so casually.”
Asher glared at me from a distance.
Even with his face covered by his front paws, Asher’s killing intent reached us. Oz, trembling with fear, tried to retreat back into the hole. Priscilla-chan then scooped him up.
“This is troublesome. If you want to act with me, you’ll have to get along with Teruru-chan, the Thousand-Handed Spider, who is even scarier than Asher or Grandpa…?”
“A, Thousand-Handed Spider!?”
“That’s right. She lives at the base of the Sacred Mountain you see over there?”
“Piiigyaaah!”
Oz broke free from Priscilla-chan’s arms and fled straight into the forest.
“Um, is it okay if I chase him?”
“Yunyun, Rinrin. Please look after Priscilla-chan for me?”
“Leave it to us.”
“Fine, I guess.”
“Meow is going too, meow.”
Like children going to play next door, Priscilla-chan cheerfully ran into the forest where Oz had disappeared.
“Good for him.”
“Right!”
Sleigsta (Old Man) quietly observed our interaction.
It’s somewhat refreshing to see Sleigsta (Old Man) outside of the Moss Garden. His scales glitter beautifully in the sunlight. The wind rushing across the grassland rustles his jet-black fur.
“How long has it been since I left the vicinity of the Spirit Tree and relaxed like this?”
“Could it be, excluding the time we went on an expedition to the Yorttenitos Kingdom, it’s been two thousand years?”
“Perhaps so.”
“Uwah, that’s amazing!”
We had also gone on an expedition to the Yorttenitos Kingdom to repel a horde of undead, but it was so chaotic back then that Sleigsta (Old Man) probably couldn’t truly relax.
Thinking about it, the current situation of being able to leisurely sunbathe in the Forbidden Territory is indeed a rare respite.
Although it was an unexpected turn of events, the vacation in the Forbidden Territory seemed to be a precious one for Sleigsta (Old Man).
“However, I must be returning soon as well.”
“Lily’s worried, right?”
Priscilla-chan and the others who ran off had already disappeared deep into the forest. So, I returned to Sleigsta (Old Man).
He’s still as large as a small mountain.
I looked up at Sleigsta (Old Man).
“Lily? Hmm, there shouldn’t be any problems. I receive daily reports.”
“You mean telepathy, right?”
“It is possible with specific individuals.”
“Are you compatible with Lily?”
I can also communicate telepathically with Mistral under certain conditions.
I wish I could do that, I’m so envious.
“Hahahaha. We will connect hearts someday as well.”
“That’s right. Old man and you are always communicating with your hearts and words, and to us listening from the side, it sounds like an incomprehensible conversation!”
“Ugh…”
Mistral, who seemed to have finished tending to Sleigsta (Old Man), drooped his shoulders.
“Hmph. There’s no need to listen to conversations between males. Your ears will rot.”
Asher, perhaps feeling better now that Oz’s presence was gone and Mistral was grooming him, retracted his killing intent from earlier and relaxed.
“Asher, you really dislike males, don’t you?”
“Don’t state the obvious again.”
Asher snorted.
But even while saying he dislikes them, Asher, who takes care of and looks after me, is still kind, I think.
With a “buonnn,” his peach-colored tail swished.
I screamed and hid behind Sleigsta (Old Man).
“If you hide there, I’ll be attacked?”
“Grandpa, that’s just your imagination?”
As I said that, Asher’s tail struck Sleigsta (Old Man) with a “bashin-bashin.”
“Oh dear. I have no time to rest leisurely.”
Saying that, Sleigsta (Old Man) majestically spread his giant wings.
“Grandpa, can I ride on you?”
“You don’t need to be遠慮 (enryo – reserved) with me.”
“Hooray!”
With a Spatial Jump, I moved onto Sleigsta (Old Man)’s head.
Sleigsta (Old Man), carrying me, slowly began to flap his wings.
A floating sensation enveloped my whole body.
It’s strange.
Even though he wasn’t flapping his wings frantically like a bird, Sleigsta (Old Man)’s enormous body lifted from the ground as softly as feathers.
The flowers and grass of the grassland were not disturbed by Sleigsta (Old Man)’s flapping, nor was Asher’s beautiful fur. Nevertheless, Sleigsta (Old Man) was steadily gaining altitude.
“Meow!”
“You’re quick to react!”
Then, Nimiah, who had grown larger, flew from the depths of the forest.
Of course, Priscilla-chan was riding on her back.
And Oz’s presence was nowhere to be seen.
Oz and Sleigsta (Old Man). If you weigh them on a scale, Sleigsta (Old Man) is overwhelmingly heavier!
“Priscilla wants to ride too?”
“Let’s ride, let’s ride.”
“Kukukuk. If the Spirit Tree Spirit says so, I cannot refuse.”
Although he had no intention of refusing, Sleigsta (Old Man) was indulging Ares-chan.
Even far from the Spirit Tree, Sleigsta (Old Man) is still a Guardian Dragon.
Carrying me, Priscilla-chan, Ares-chan, and Nimiah who had returned to her small form, Sleigsta (Old Man) ascended further.
Once we crossed the summit of the Sacred Mountain, the Forbidden Territory could be seen stretching far into the distance.
The young girls shrieked with joy at the magnificent view.
I once again turned my gaze to the vast nature of the Forbidden Territory.
“Hey, hey, Grandpa.”
“Hmm?”
“We’ll be returning to the Dragon Forest soon, right?”
“That’s right. The formal transfer of generations with Lily is still some time away.”
“I see…”
“You seem to have something on your mind?”
“Yeah, um…”
The summit of the Sacred Mountain is a hollow.
From here, soaring high in the sky, we could clearly see the shallow lake spreading across the hollow of the summit.
“Speaking of which, I haven’t properly reported to you, Grandpa.”
Priscilla-chan and the others ran from Sleigsta (Old Man)’s head towards his body, calling it a race.
While watching them, I told Sleigsta (Old Man) about what happened with Baltnowar.
Sleigsta (Old Man) listened to my story without interrupting.
“…It’s about the forbidden technique too. I think I need to start thinking about the future soon. After all, I’ve acquired a place to live for eternity.”
Looking east, beyond the deeply connected Dragon Peaks, I could also see the presence of a large mansion.
Sleigsta (Old Man) flew slowly, as if enjoying the scenery of the Forbidden Territory.
“Hmm. You seem to be living a life full of ups and downs as usual. Such worries should normally arise when one is a bit older mentally.”
“That’s strange. My appearance should age along with my mental age!”
Sleigsta (Old Man) laughed heartily.
“Even if your heart and appearance are young, you can reach the stage of deep contemplation through experience. Your thoughts are likely of that nature.”
As Mistral said, if others were to hear the conversations between me and Sleigsta (Old Man), which happen through heart and words, they would definitely find it nonsensical.
However, Sleigsta (Old Man) and I are undeniably communicating.
“Very well. I will also lend you my strength. However, it will be some time from now.”
“Hooray!”
“However, the Thousand-Handed Spider is also here. I’ll have to inform her before I get involved?”
“Yes. I’ll consult with Teruru-chan too.”
I told him about the commotion involving Baltnowar.
From there, what exactly did I ask Sleigsta (Old Man)?
Will I find out a little later?
After all, I need to consult with everyone, and most importantly, my resolve isn’t firm yet.
*Rinnn*. The Spirit Tree hanging from my right hip resonated cheerfully.
“Well then, let us confront the problem that is currently your biggest source of anxiety.”
“…It’s about the forbidden technique?”
The consultation with Sleigsta (Old Man) is pending the next development.
If so, all that remains is the issue concerning the forbidden technique.
Even if it was unintentional, I used a forbidden technique.
And there are those in this world who keep a close eye on forbidden techniques.
Yes.
That Witch.
“What will happen to me?”
One night.
An evil dragon that trespassed into the Forbidden Territory was instantly killed by the Witch.
Even Sleigsta (Old Man) would probably be easily defeated by the Witch’s hand!
“Oh dear. What do you want to do to me?”
“I’m sorry. It was a joke.”
I can afford to think of jokes, which means I have some leeway. That’s not it.
Surely, the problem of the forbidden technique is not something so trivial that I can ease my mind just by confiding in Sleigsta (Old Man)? But that’s precisely why I need to face it with my usual composure.
“That’s a good mindset. Even though your spirit is young, you are still a splendid Messenger. I am happy to be able to witness your growth.”
Sleigsta (Old Man) looked down at the Forbidden Territory with his golden eyes.
“I too used to turn my wings towards this land often in the past. At that time, I was still immature. And I was often scolded by the Witch and my master.”
“Sleigsta (Old Man) had times like that, too?”
“Indeed. Not only me. Everyone grows by making mistakes. You too, are like that.”
I feel like I’m always making mistakes.
Every time there’s a disturbance, I break something or cause trouble.
But Sleigsta (Old Man) called me a splendid Messenger. If so, I must be moving forward, right?
“From now on, you will walk a long path of life. Along the way, you will encounter walls that cannot be overcome or roads that require detours or backtracking. For the time being, it concerns touching the forbidden technique.”
“Yes. What should I do?”
The fact that I have touched forbidden techniques cannot be undone.
So, will I end up in conflict with the Witch?
If so, will I also be in conflict with Ada, the Witch’s disciple?
Ah, if that happens, I might not be able to keep my promise with Ada.
Ada has helped me in many ways, so I don’t want to repay her kindness with harm.
“Kukukuk. Your worries are endless.”
Sleigsta (Old Man) laughed cheerfully, even though he could read my anxieties.
“Grandpa, I’m serious!”
“I know. Well then, I shall resolve your worries.”
How, I wonder?
Sleigsta (Old Man) smiled and pointed behind me as I tilted my head.
As he pointed, I turned around.
A sparkling radiance, like firefly light or stardust twinkling, began to dance around Sleigsta (Old Man)’s head.
My heart pounded violently.
Though it wasn’t Oz, I stiffened with tension throughout my body.
“It is desirable to resolve worries quickly. Therefore, I informed the Witch.”
“!!!!”
I don’t know where the Witch is in the world.
When would such a person know about me, who touched a forbidden technique?
I hear it by word of mouth. It spreads through travelers’ gossip. Animals and spirits talk. Eventually, it will reach the Witch’s ears.
But to think that Sleigsta (Old Man) would directly convey it through telepathy!
My vision, unable to move due to tension, saw the light particles increasing in density.
And after a faint luminescence, resembling the glow of the full moon.
A tall woman appeared, completely wrapped in a pure white cloak with a hood.
The White One.
That is, the Witch.
The Witch quietly stared at me from within her hood.
I could only stand there, unable to do anything but exchange glances.
Why did Sleigsta (Old Man) report directly to the Witch?
It’s as I just said.
To resolve my worries quickly.
But what kind of solution is that?!
A painful punishment?
Despairing torture?
Requiring death as atonement?
Sleigsta (Old Man) is usually a kind old man with a broad heart. However, he also possesses strictness.
He shows no mercy to those who disturb the peace of the Dragon Forest.
Even if it were me or Mistral, if we were to harm the forest or the Spirit Tree, we would be eliminated without question.
So, what about this time?
Upon receiving Sleigsta (Old Man)’s report, the Witch transferred here without delay.
Sleigsta (Old Man) was the one who advised me not to touch forbidden techniques.
I broke that advice, so will I be severely punished?
Punishment for sin.
I understand that much.
But I don’t want to be killed here, leaving everyone behind and my future plans unfinished!
I am prepared to receive severe punishment.
However, there are things I don’t want to lose.
This is selfish, isn’t it?
The Witch continued to gaze at me quietly, whether she knew my heart or not.
Sleigsta (Old Man) was also silent.
Although my whole body was stiff and unable to move, my thoughts and heartbeat were racing.
What kind of punishment will I receive?
I too, unknowingly, found myself staring back at the Witch.
With her hood pulled deep, the Witch’s expression was unreadable.
She was taller than me and Mistral.
From my upward gaze, I could only see her chin below her thin lips and silver hair spilling from her hood.
The silence continued.
Just then, I sensed Priscilla-chan and the others returning, having finished their race along Sleigsta (Old Man)’s long neck.
“A forbidden technique that overlaps worlds.”
Suddenly, the Witch spoke.
Her voice was clear but devoid of warmth, like the cold side of the moon.
But this is the Witch’s voice.
It’s not cruel, and since I’ve exchanged words with her a few times, it’s a familiar sound, but to me now, it had a chill that froze my soul.
The Witch slowly extended her arm.
A snow-white hand emerged from the sleeve of her pure white cloak.
I flinched, trembling.
The Witch intends to finish my punishment before Priscilla-chan and the others return.
Slowly, the Witch’s hand approached me. I could only follow her movements with my eyes, unable to resist.
“…I would prefer if you didn’t overuse it.”
The Witch’s outstretched hand touched me.
On my head.
My entire consciousness focused on my head where the Witch was touching.
“Forbidden techniques sometimes disturb not only the world but also oneself. Never forget that.”
“Y-yes…”
Baltnowar’s life was ruined precisely by a forbidden technique.
I, too, have touched a forbidden technique and am now facing a crisis in my life.
However, the Witch’s hand touching my head did not bring any terrifying spells or painful physical punishments.
“Um, are you a guest?”
Just then, Priscilla-chan and the others returned.
“Um…”
With the Witch’s hand still on my head, I looked at Priscilla-chan and the others with a troubled expression.
It can’t be helped if I receive punishment.
But I absolutely don’t want Priscilla-chan and the others to get caught up in it.
What should I do, I wondered. Without regard for my worries, the young girl who makes friends with everyone unconcernedly tugged at the Witch’s cloak.
“Hey, hey, let’s play?”
Fufu, the Witch’s lips, peeking out from her hood, seemed to smile.
“Your disciple has indeed inherited your influence strongly.”
“Of course she has. Elnea is my proud disciple.”
The Witch released my head and embraced Priscilla-chan. Priscilla-chan rejoiced happily. And Sleigsta (Old Man), praised by the Witch, rumbled with laughter, seemingly pleased.
With the return of Priscilla-chan and the others, the atmosphere suddenly lightened.
The tension I felt until now seemed to have vanished as the atmosphere completely changed.
And the Witch, while playing with Priscilla-chan, began to swirl the same light particles as when she transferred here.
“Um, um… as for my punishment for using the forbidden technique?”
I couldn’t help but ask the Witch, who entrusted Priscilla-chan to me. Then, before disappearing, the Witch left me with these words.
“It seems you do not need it.”
“Eh!?”
Before I could ask why I didn’t need punishment, the Witch disappeared amidst the swirling light particles.
“It means she let you off the hook.”
“Is that because I’m Grandpa’s disciple?”
“No. It’s probably because you are an honest person.”
What was the Witch thinking after receiving Sleigsta (Old Man)’s report?
What was she thinking when she faced me?
I still can’t quite fathom the Witch.
“You’ve encountered the Witch several times before you used the forbidden technique, haven’t you? She was probably reading you from around that time. And seeing that you haven’t changed, she forgave you.”
“…Hmm. Even so, am I truly forgiven? What exactly is a forbidden technique, anyway?”
“Hmm. I also have responsibility for telling you only not to touch it. Very well, I shall teach you such things from now on.”
“Study, study.”
“Y-yes! I look forward to learning from you!”
“Um, Priscilla will study too!”
“That’s an untrustworthy statement.”
“Is it really?”
Sleigsta (Old Man) will always, always be my master.
And Yunyun and Rinrin are skeptical of Priscilla-chan, who replied with energetic enthusiasm.
Forgiven by the Witch, I felt a sense of relief and sat down on Sleigsta (Old Man)’s head.
My ignorance. The forbidden technique activating unintentionally. Being Sleigsta (Old Man)’s disciple. Having met the Witch several times. And perhaps, being honest?
I think all these factors combined led to my forgiveness.
The Witch isn’t someone who is solely stern.
I know the gentle side she showed Ada.
However, just because I was forgiven this time doesn’t mean I’ll be forgiven next time.
I must learn the correct knowledge from Sleigsta (Old Man) and never use forbidden techniques again.
The scenery of the Forbidden Territory, which I looked down upon with a clear mind, seemed to shine more brilliantly than ever.
