As soon as the sun rose, we immediately dashed straight to the Royal Palace.
Even though I gave the carriage driver a generous tip to hurry, by the time we arrived it was already past lunchtime.
Once again, I could really feel just how incredible the Empire’s Gate system truly is as a mode of transportation.
“I must say, you arrived quicker than expected. When I heard the news, I thought it would take you several days.”
Our Crown Prince greeted us with an exceptionally bright smile.
He was sitting right in front of us, grinning happily while we were busy preparing our late lunch. And this despite him having already finished his own meal!
I had clearly stated that I wanted to make my report before eating, but Theron insisted and personally arranged the meal for us instead.
He’s probably worried I might choke while eating or something.
“Thanks to Black Wolf.”
The tracking abilities of the beastfolk, which are incomprehensible by human standards, combined with the heightened senses of a Master—well, it’s no wonder nobody can escape Black Wolf’s pursuit.
Speaking frankly, after tearing off a piece of bread on the table and dipping it into the soup, I added:
“And also thanks to Lucy. Though I don’t know much about it, apparently she left behind a distinctive perfume trail.”
“A tracking scent? That’s something commonly used by the Special Forces. Looks like she has more tricks up her sleeve than expected.”
By the way, I was the only one here.
Having meals with my superior officer is always a painful experience, so it’s better if I endure it alone.
“Why don’t we consider forming a partnership with White Crow?”
“Partnership? You mean becoming allies?”
“Yes. As we’ve seen from this case, the Information Department is somewhat lacking when it comes to gathering intelligence outside the Empire. It would be beneficial to have someone who could fill that gap.”
“That sounds like something you should discuss with the head of the Information Department. Sounds like you’re giving the colonel a jab about his shortcomings to the general. Wonder how he’ll react?”
“Just… please don’t mention that.”
At Theron’s playful remark, I awkwardly smiled.
That guy can be quite difficult to deal with, you know.
The head of the Information Department is a very military-like figure, different from the wise old sages I’ve met. Even though I’ve only encountered him a few times, every single meeting left me exhausted.
“Just kidding. Anyway, I’ll consider your proposal positively. After all, we’ll be seeing each other often anyway.”
“Seeing each other often? What do you mean by that?”
“Haven’t you heard? The Arion Kingdom’s heir information. That’s what they traded with me. They want to establish a branch in the Imperial Capital.”
This was news to me.
I had assumed they’d simply exchanged money, but I never imagined it was under such conditions.
“To put it simply, there are practically no independent organizations handling information within the Empire. If they exist, they’re all under the control of the Information Department. That was their original purpose after all—to completely control all information.”
“As I understand, but… does that mean Lucy will eventually fall under the jurisdiction of the Information Department?”
“Not exactly. She turned out to be tougher than expected. She desires complete independence. If that’s impossible, she wants at least an equal alliance relationship.”
“If that’s the case…”
“Since I’ve already made the promise, I suppose I have no choice but to honor it. I can already picture the Information Department chief throwing a fit. Would you mind being there when it happens?”
“What help could I possibly provide?”
Why would I attend an event where unnecessary trouble might arise? Of course, if Theron orders me, I’ll have no choice but to comply.
‘Sigh, earning money is tough.’
While hiding my inner thoughts, I sliced into a cheese-covered hamburger when Theron leaned back in his chair and stretched lazily.
“Phew~ Finally, we can return to the Empire. You must be sad too. Your rare vacation flew by so quickly.”
“It’s fine. Besides, I’m not even a real professor… I’m a soldier, after all.”
Calmly answering, Theron smirked and swirled his wine glass, gazing at the deep red hue of the red wine before casually speaking:
“When we return, there will be awards and promotions. Afterward, you’ll be free until the end of your vacation. Feel free to relax.”
“If nothing unexpected happens, that is.”
“Haha, true enough. By the way, you don’t seem too thrilled, do you? Earning a promotion at your age is unprecedented—not just in the Empire’s history, but across the entire continent!”
“…Oh, that’s right.”
Come to think of it, I had forgotten. They did promise a promotion once this mission was over.
Honestly, I felt more bewildered than happy. I was just doing my job, following orders, and somehow ended up earning a star.
Theron burst out laughing upon seeing my expression.
“Finding someone as detached from power as you is quite rare.”
“Ah, it’s just that it hasn’t sunk in yet. I’m human too; how could I dislike power?”
“It seems our definitions of ‘people’ differ. Normally, someone would be shedding tears of joy at this point and daydreaming about the privileges that come with their new rank.”
“…What changes exactly?”
Curious, I asked, and Theron chuckled heartily.
Many things change. Let me just list the ones I remember. First, you’ll receive a mansion within the capital. The location is usually random, but given your standing, you can likely choose the location yourself.
A mansion, huh?
Considering the land prices in the capital, that’s definitely a huge perk.
“To manage the mansion, you’ll need staff. Ten people will be assigned to assist you. All of them have been thoroughly vetted by the Royal Palace and are trustworthy.”
People, huh.
Indeed, managing a mansion myself would be impractical, so this is necessary.
“With your new rank comes a raise in salary. It might be doubled or tripled—I forget which. In addition to your base pay, there’s also a stipend for maintaining your dignity. Plus, various tax benefits will make the increase even more noticeable.”
I had anticipated a significant raise, but double or triple? The Empire truly is a great place to live.
Who needs to go anywhere else? This is where I’ll lay down my bones.
“The rest, you’ll discover on your own. My mouth’s getting tired explaining everything.”
“Listening to this makes my loyalty to the Empire grow stronger.”
“Compared to your efforts, it’s nothing much. Still, the only way we can repay you is through monetary means.”
Without saying much, I finished my meal and thought to myself.
Some people claim life cannot be quantified by money, but can anything truly be quantified then?
How many people out there offer nothing in return?
“Thank you for the meal.”
“Go rest now. I’ll handle the rest. We’ll depart for the Empire either tomorrow or the day after at the latest.”
“One moment sooner I return, the better. Not that I’m rushing you, of course.”
“Haha, understood. I agree completely.”
I grinned and shook hands with the still-smiling Theron.
After finishing the meal, the tension eased, and with the tension gone, sleepiness crept in.
A good nap will refresh me.
***
When I opened my eyes, sunlight filtered through the green leaves above.
The bright light instinctively made me squint.
‘Real or dream?’
Then, a neutral voice whispered in my ear.
“It’s a dream.”
“Ah, I see.”
Then I’ll just keep sleeping.
“Get up. Don’t regret it later.”
“…Damn.”
Lifting my heavy eyelids, I saw a girl looking down at me.
Green hair, matching green eyes, and a pure white dress.
A surreal presence capable of entering another’s dreams with such confidence.
Among those I’ve met, there’s only one such individual.
“Is that you, World Tree?”
“Yes. Yggdrasil.”
With a calm tone, I stood up to face her.
What brings her to my dream today?
“You desired something, did you not?”
“Recognition from the gods. Is this where it happens? I thought I needed to go to Alheim.”
“Originally, yes, but your body wouldn’t withstand the journey.”
Yggdrasil’s finger touched my chest.
When did she get so close? A skill even Black Wolf couldn’t mimic.
“Poisonous… so poisonous.”
“…Still bearable… ugh…!”
It felt as if my heart was being squeezed.
Similar to when the High Priest of Lust cursed me before dying—but no, this pain was far worse.
The agony spread from my heart to my lungs, making it impossible to breathe.
“Pain beyond what a human can endure. Only because of you can this frail body endure such trials.”
“Kuh… hah…!”
“Treasure your body.”
Emerald energy erupted from Yggdrasil’s fingertips.
Blinded by its brilliance, I instinctively closed my eyes.
Not that I could maintain my balance anyway due to the overwhelming pain.
“The demonic energy within you is too potent. Completely alleviating your suffering may prove impossible.”
“What… does that mean…?”
As Yggdrasil continued speaking, the pain gradually faded.
Was her power suppressing the curse?
A wave of warmth swept through my chest, erasing the pain entirely.
Taking a deep breath, fresh air filled my lungs.
“…Phew. Thank you. I owe you my life.”
“For now, what you sought has been granted. However, this won’t suffice.”
“I haven’t become a demigod, have I? Is that why?”
Mimir mentioned that divine recognition would turn me into a demigod.
“In modern times, humans can stand on their own without divine intervention. Conversely, the gods have lost much of their influence.”
“Still hard to grasp.”
Despite my complaints, Yggdrasil maintained her calm demeanor and continued explaining.
“You must seek recognition from another deity. And suppress the demonic energy spreading throughout the world.”
“I get the gist. Find another god, gain their approval, and beat up heretics, right?”
“You saved my child. Yet all I can offer you is this.”
Though Yggdrasil remained expressionless, to me, she seemed somewhat sorrowful.
As a mere human, all I could do was flash her a small smile.
“It’s fine. Just lifting the curse is more than enough. I was planning to visit anyway, and you even came to me. Thank you.”
Bowing my head slightly, Yggdrasil’s eyes widened ever so slightly—a fleeting moment even a Master’s senses might miss.
I scratched the back of my head and asked,
“Is everything alright with Alheim?”
“My child is not weak.”
“Good to hear.”
I nodded calmly.
Nothing else came to mind.
The task seems done…
But how do I leave this dream?
Do I just stay asleep?
As I blinked, Yggdrasil extended her hand.
“Remember this: the forest is your ally.”
Her hand gently pushed against my chest.
Though the force was gentle, I fell backward effortlessly, unable to resist.
Déjà vu…
“Must we part like this next time?”
“Unlikely.”
“ZENNNNNGGGHHH!!!”
And thus, I let out a mournful cry as I began plummeting into somewhere unknown.
Yggdrasil’s fading figure seemed to smile faintly.
“You are no less than my own child.”
Surrounded by radiant light, Yggdrasil smiled warmly.
