Prelude
Necropolia in the Land of Grave Keepers…-.
Nox stood alone at the base of a large, magical tree.
Nox: “Looks like there isn’t much time left.”
Nox let out a thin sigh as he stroked the rotting trunk of the tree in sympathy.
Nox: “’The end comes to all, great or small. Everything will be lost eventually, which only makes the world more beautiful.’”
Nox looked up overhead as he recited the poem from memory, his voice quiet.
He could see a group of butterflies, playfully flying about.
Nox: “The fate of the end cannot be changed.”
His expression twisted as he slowly walked away.
Nox: “…in the end, I couldn’t become like you OO.”
His words were downhearted as they went unheard, carried off by the evening wind…-.
…
……
The fresh morning breeze blew in through the open window.
Some time had passed since the comet of disaster issue in the Land of Stars had been resolved…
(I haven’t seen Nox or Ruber since that time but…-)
In the room I was staying in, I remembered meeting the enigmatic pair in Saphinia and Ancula.
———————–
OO: “Um… who exactly are you?”
Nox: “…I’m a Grim Reaper.”
———————–
Ruber: “…Ruber. Prince of Remedium in the Land of Medical Treatment.”
———————–
Nox, who called himself a Grim Reaper, and the doctor Ruber…
I was still completely wrapped up in their story.
And now, I had received a letter which I held in my hand.
(I never thought I’d get a letter from Nox.)
The letter was an invitation, asking me to come attend the festival that was to take place in Necropolia in the Land of Grave Keepers.
(Necropolia… I was told Nox is the prince of this kingdom.)
The meaningful words he had spoken to me the last time we met crossed my mind
———————–
Nox: “I just had hopes for you.”
———————–
(I wonder what he meant by that.)
No matter how many times I looked it over, the brief letter failed to give me any more information.
(What is Nox thinking… if I go to Necropolia, I might be able to find out.)
Thinking back to the conversations I’d had with him in the past, I decided to attend the event being held in Necropolia: The Hell Festival.
Prologue
Necropolia in the Land of Grave Keepers, Month of Fragrance…-.
(So this is Necropolia…)
Having been invited to the event known as the Hell Festival, I headed towards the town.
Just as the country’s name suggested, the path leading to the town was lined on either side by countless headstones.
(All of the tombstones look to be really well cared for.)
Possibly because of their beautiful arrangement, I felt like this place was more of a testament to history rather than a cemetery.
(But there are so many tombstones… just who are all these people?)
The markers went on for as far as the eye could see, and as that question came to mind…-.
Lucien: “…”
A little way off in front of a large tombstone, I saw a prince I recognized.
OO: “Lucien?”
Lucien: “OO…”
The person I called out to who then turned around was Lucien, Prince of Arbitro in the Land of Judgement…
Lucien: “It’s been a while. I didn’t think I’d see you here.”
Lucien started to walk over and meet me, his glossy black wings fluttering slightly.
OO: “I’m surprised to see you too. Did you come to see the Hell Festival?”
Lucien: “Yeah. Necropolia and Arbitro have had ties for a long time. And… in the invitation, it said it would be better if I came as someone with black wings.”
(…what could that mean?)
Taking in his attitude and the unknown circumstances, I hesitated to ask any probing questions.
Then suddenly, a slight breeze carried with it the sound of a gentle melody.
(Is that a violin?)
Lucien: “That’s a beautiful song.”
Lucien had noticed the sound too, and he smiled faintly.
OO: “It really is. I wonder who’s playing it.”
Lucien: “It’s coming from the town. Do you want to go see?”
OO: “Yes…!”
Nodding at Lucien’s suggestion, the two of us followed the melody…-.
…
……
The roads were neat and tidy, decorated with lovely white flowers…-.
As soon as we entered the town, we were able to find the violin player surrounded by a crowd of people.
The performer with the violin was Lied, Prince of Vox in the Land of Voice…
OO: “! Lied…”
I called out his name in surprise before I could stop myself.
Lucien: “Do you know him?”
OO: “Yes. Lied is one of the Princes of the Land of Voice.”
??: “…hm?”
From within the crowd of people listening to the performance, someone I recognized looked towards us.
OO: “Ah…!”
Seras: “Thought I heard a voice I recognized, and it was you Princess.”
Standing there with a friendly smile was Seras, Prince of Seitos in the Land of Aurora.
Seras: “Well ain’t this an unexpected meetin’. Hm? And who’s this handsome fella?”
Lucien: “H-handsome fella?”
Under Seras’ scrutiny, Lucien seemed unnerved and momentarily looked away.
Lucien: “…I’m Lucien, Prince of Arbitro.”
Seras: “Ooh, Arbitro huh. I’m Seras, Prince of Seitos. Nice to meetcha.”
Seras cheerfully held out his hand when…
Lied: “…hey.”
As I thought I heard Lied’s voice, small yet well-projected, the performance completely stopped.
Lied: “You shouldn’t talk during a performance.”
Lied slowly lowered the violin he was holding and skillfully maneuvered his way through the crowd to us.
Seras: “You’re totally right. My bad. Anyway, you sure got some skill there. I was just passin’ by, but I had to stop.”
Lied: “My name isn’t ‘you’; it’s Lied.”
Lied gave him the correction flatly, clearly unamused with how Seras had addressed him.
Seras: “Ah, I’m…-“
Lied: “Seras, Prince of Seitos. And next to you is Lucien, Prince of Arbitro right? I heard.”
Then, Lied turned towards me, his pale purple hair shifting slightly.
Lied: “OO, it’s been a while.”
OO: “Yeah. Sorry for interrupting your performance.”
Lied: “It’s fine, it was just a piece I’ve been working on. There were suddenly people gathered around… and I decided it was time to stop.”
I smiled at Lied as he let out a listless sigh.
(Still, I hadn’t thought all these people would come to Necropolia.)
In my heart, I remembered the conversation I’d had with Ruber in Galassia.
———————–
Ruber: “… Necropolia, in the Land of Grave Keepers.”
OO: “Eh?”
Ruber: “It’s Nox’s kingdom. They’ve practically cut all ties with other kingdoms, so it’s hard to get in. He’s the Prince of Necropolia.”
————————
(According to Ruber, Necropolia was supposed to have cut ties with the other kingdoms, so why were myself and the others invited here? …I wonder if there’s some reason we were called to attend.)
I couldn’t understand what Nox was planning… but a strange sense of unease filled my heart and the ache it caused wouldn’t stop.
Chapter 1
People were milling about along the stone pathway…-.
Having arrived in Necropolia to attend the Hell Festival, I was surprisingly reunited with some of the princes from other kingdoms.
Seras: “I never thought I’d meet up with princes from other kingdoms here.”
Lied: “That’s what I was going to say. I thought I was the only one to respond to the invitation from Necropolia.”
OO: “What do you mean?”
Lucien: “Did you come without knowing anything about this kingdom?”
As he spoke, Lucien blinked at me and titled his head.
OO: “I tried looking into it in different places before I came, but I couldn’t find any information on Necropolia.”
Seras: “Guess it’s understandable, considerin’ Necropolia ain’t got much in the way of ties with other kingdoms.”
Lied: “It’s been a while since people from other countries were invited to the Hell Festival.”
As my shoulders dropped, Lied and Seras exchanged nods of agreement.
(Lucien said his country still had relations with Necropolia but…)
OO: “Then why are you both here, Seras and Lied?”
Seras: “I was… well ya know, I was curious. I heard about this place from a buddy and I always wanted to visit.”
Lied: “A buddy?”
Seras: “Yup, got me a buddy who travels all around the worlds. And why’re you here Lied?”
Lied: “I was told the royal family of Vox used to gift Necropolia with music. That’s the connection to the invitation. I was asked to attend the festival and put on a musical performance.”
OO: “So you were asked to do something like that. I’m looking forward to your performance during the festival Lied.”
As I expressed my honest feelings, Lied quietly looked at me.
Lied: “Well, that’s not the only reason I came.”
OO: “Eh?”
Lied: “…’The end comes to all, great or small. Everything will be lost eventually, which only makes the world more beautiful.’”
I blinked repeatedly, hearing those words that seemed almost like a song.
Lied: “It’s a poem that’s been handed down since long ago in this country. The Hell Festival is based on that line of thinking too. It’s interesting.”
OO: “It sounds like a rather sad poem to me…”
(But perhaps it’s just like Lied to latch on to something like that.)
Lied, who had made a name for himself far and wide as a composer, had a habit of thinking in peculiar ways.
That ephemeral way of speaking and acting often surprised people and caused a commotion around him.
Lucien: “…?”
Lucien had been taking in the conversation in silence, but he turned to look at something he noticed.
OO: “Is something wrong?”
Lucien: “Just now, I felt like someone was watching us…”
Lied: “Watching?”
Lucien: “…never mind, I’m sure I imagined it. I think I might just be nervous as it’s been a while since I’ve done anything in a diplomatic capacity.”
Seras: “Heeh, I ain’t too good at it either. Been a while since I left my country too.”
Lucien let out a sigh, his gaze falling, and Seras lightly clapped him on the shoulder.
Lucien: “Really?”
Seras: “Yup. My country’s got some special circumstances goin’ on, but things’ve been calmin’ down bit by bit. Till now, I never thought I’d go out on my own like this.”
The land of Seras’s kingdom of Seitos is also called the Land of Energy Particles as it’s easy to gather electricity there.
The country was in crisis when all of that collapsed with the threat of the Dream Eaters, and to revive the land, Seras was constantly working with the protector goddess of the country, Minerva.
OO: “I’m glad we were able to meet again like this outside of Seitos.”
Seras: “Oh, it does my heart good to hear that. I’m glad too.”
Lied: “Even though you said your kingdom has certain circumstances surrounding it, you seem pretty carefree.”
Seras: “Yeah I’m pretty easy-goin’. That’s ‘cause I left my reliable partner in charge.”
(By partner, I bet he means Minerva. Looks like their relationship is still strong.)
Seras was sprightly and all smiles as he looked at all of us.
Seras: “Now then, I got a good feelin’ what with you guys and the princess here… so shall we go visit the castle?”
Lucien: “I suppose you’re right. The Hell Festival doesn’t start until evening, so we have some time. I think it would be a good idea to go introduce ourselves.”
OO: “I agree. Please allow me to accompany you.”
(If I go to the castle, I’m sure I’ll be able to see Nox…- and I might be able to ask him about what he said in the Land of Stars.)
Filled with a mixture of anticipation and nervousness, I took in a deep breath and…
Nox: “Hey, glad you could make it.”
At the other end of the path, I caught sight of the person in question casually approaching us.
Chapter 2
Beneath the blue sky, the air was filled with the dancing of white flower petals carried on the breeze.
Nox: “Welcome to Necropolia. I’m glad you all could make it. My name is Nox, prince of this country.”
Nox came to a stop in front of us and gave a graceful bow.
Lied: “Heeh… so you’re the ‘Grim Reaper’ huh.”
(Grim Reaper…)
Lied spoke quietly with great interest, but his words made my heart leap…
Nox: “It’s true that I’ve been called that. Outside of Necropolia, this is the look of a Grim Reaper right?”
Nox smiled as if he didn’t mind the term and, as if in jest, he held up his large scythe.
Nox: “Well, we’ll leave the talk about me for now. This is the first time you all have been to Necropolia right? To start with, I’d like to show you around.”
(I have so many things I want to ask him but…-)
OO: “…yes, please tell us about what kind of place Necropolia is.”
Nox: “I’m honored that you’re all interested. But standing around here talking is… I know, how about you come back to my castle?”
Nox seemed to be debating the point before he turned around and walked off while humming.
Lied: “…I guess that means he wants us to follow.”
Seras: “Guess so. He kinda seems like a prince that’s outta touch with reality though.”
Lucien: “But I’m glad he’s willing to teach us about Necropolia. I don’t really have any detailed knowledge about this country in the first place.”
OO: “…right, let’s go.”
Following after Nox, we went through the heart of the town towards the stone castle…-.
Town Children: “…”
I noticed we were being stared at by children dressed in adorable festival outfits.
Seras: “What’s up? You need us for somethin’?”
Seras seemed to have noticed it too and he bent down to be at eye-level with the children as he asked his question.
Town Child 1: “Mister, did you guys come from outside Necropolia?”
Seras: “Yup, you got it.”
Town Child 2: “There’s a guy with wings! That’s amazing.”
Town Child 3: “That one is super good at music. I heard him playing earlier!”
In an instant, we were surrounded by children, their voices rising and clamoring over each other.
Town Child 2: “Hey! Can I touch your wings?”
Lucien: “N-no, that’s…-“
Town Child 3: “Mister Musician! Play that song again!”
Lied: “You’ll hear it if you behave and mind your manners.”
(Looks like there are a lot of children full of curiosity.)
Their eyes sparkled, likely because we were unusual in our coming from outside Necropolia.
Nox: “Come on now. You mustn’t cause trouble for our guests.”
Town Child 1: “Prince Nox! Are they your guests Prince Nox?”
Nox: “That’s right. And that means they’re your guests too. They’ve all come to see the Hell Festival.”
Town Child 2: “Really!? Is that because tonight’s festival is special?”
Nox: “…yes, that’s right.”
(Nox?)
The child’s question seemed innocent, but for some reason Nox’s smile faltered for an instant.
Town Child 3: “Prince Nox, um… we were making the decorations for the festival, but it’s going a little slow.”
Nox: “I see. Well then, after I’ve finished speaking with our guests I’ll come and help. Would you go and tell the adults that are working on it too?”
Town Children: “Yeah!”
With an enthusiastic reply, the children ran off, practically tripping over each other.
Seras: “Ain’t that nice, bein’ so close to the people.”
Nox: “Our country is rather small. And they’re all good kids.”
Nox nodded as he looked after the children who were moving further away.
(Nox can be so kind.)
I realized I was seeing a completely new side to this elusive person, and the thought made me grin.
Nox: “Now then… sorry about the trouble with the kids. I’ll once again lead the way to the castle.”
I pulled myself together and accompanied Nox with the others, this time making it to the castle.
…
……
We were ushered into the castle and shown to a drawing room that was brimming with elegance.
Nox: “I’m a little nervous. I haven’t really had the chance to explain about Necropolia to people from other countries before.”
He looked shy as he took a sip of the tea the servants had brought.
Nox: “So, Necropolia is a country that exists for mourning the dead. The cemetery was made for the many people who lost their lives in a great war, but that’s said to be how the country started.”
OO: “So the country is a grave for the war…?”
Nox: “Yeah. That’s how it started, then people from other countries started to stay away from us. It’s lonely, but there’s nothing to be done. After all, people prefer to avoid death and things that remind them of death.”
The explanation he gave was matter-of-fact, as if it were someone else’s problem, and Nox turned to each of us in turn.
Nox: “That’s why I’m so glad all of you accepted the invitation.”
Nox concluded the explanation with a friendly smile, yet for some reason I flinched for an instant…-.
OO: “Um… tonight is the Hell Festival right? Exactly what kind of event is it?”
Wanting to know the details that hadn’t been written in the invitation, I spoke hesitantly.
Nox: “Right. I should explain that properly too. In this country, it is believed that the King of Hell watches over the sleeping dead. The festival tonight is held to thank the King of Hell and to pray for peace for the souls of the dead.”
OO: “The King of Hell, and the peace of souls… I’m sure it’s quite a solemn festival then.”
Nox: “You don’t have to be on guard about it. The name is imposing, but it’s just a regular festival. Necropolia is usually a quiet country. But on the night of the Hell Festival, the streets and the public square are lively and decorated.”
Seras: “Ooh, that sounds fun.”
Lied: “But I’ve heard it’s rare for people from other countries to be invited to the Hell Festival. What are the chances that people from multiple different countries were invited this time?”
Nox: “Aah… yes, well it’s natural to be curious about that. But this will be the last Hell Festival. So, I wanted as many people as possible to see it.”
Nox’s eyes, like glass spheres, seemed to be looking out into the distance.
Lucien: “The last…? What does that mean?”
Nox: “Exactly what I said. This country will soon fall to ruin.”
OO: “Eh…-“
(Ruin…)
Having heard something so unimaginable, not a single person in that room dared to breathe.
Chapter 3
The sun completely filled the window, illuminating the room which had fallen into a painful silence.
Lied: “Did I mishear? I could have sworn you said the country was going to fall to ruin.”
Nox: “No, your hearing is just fine. Necropolia is to meet its end, as is its destiny. And that’s in the not-too-distant future.”
Seras: “…that ain’t somethin’ to smile and joke about.”
Lucien: “Prince Nox. If your country is in such a dire situation, how can you be so calm?”
Nox: “Hmmm… I guess because panicking won’t really change anything.”
Nox put his hand to his chin and looked into the distance.
His gesture was slightly affected, and I ended up feeling impatient and uneasy without realizing it.
OO: “Nox. Why… is it going to fall to ruin?”
Nox: “Well… rather than explaining it, it would probably be faster to just show you. I know you all just got here, but would you come with me?”
As Nox stood, I looked at the others… and with Nox leading the way, we left the castle…-.
…
……
The sunlight poured through lush and verdant leaves that seemed to form an enormous roof overhead…-.
On the outskirts of the town, we came to an enormous, towering tree.
(For some reason, the air just around this tree feels different.)
Lied: “It’s a splendid tree.”
Nox: “Right? It’s called ‘The Great Tree of Light’. It’s said that the King of Hell planted it here long ago. The roots of this tree support the ground in this country where before it was unfit for people.”
Lucien: “So it’s something very important to the people of Necropolia.”
Nox: “Yes, very much so. The Great Tree of Light has a mysterious power too. When night falls, many lights appear around it, making it very beautiful.”
Nox tenderly stroked the trunk of the tree with his fingers.
The closer I looked near the roots, it was almost like the surface had turned black…-.
Nox: “But this tree has started to decay.”
OO: “Eh…?”
Nox: “The rotting started some unknown number of years ago, and the power of the Great Tree has grown weaker and weaker. If the roots rot, the ground of Necropolia will collapse.”
Seras: “! Collapse… and there ain’t nothin’ you can do?”
Nox: “That’s right. Because this is fate.”
Lied: “Fate huh…”
Nox: “Yes. That’s why when this year’s festival is over, the country will end too.”
Nox was smiling, but he looked down through his eyelashes.
(That kind of situation…-)
I found myself unable to speak under the weight of the explanation of the situation.
Nox: “Of course, I’ve already arranged for the people here to migrate out. I figured it was the final act I could perform, as this country’s prince.”
Nox’s expression as he peered out from under his hood was so incredibly calm.
(Is there really nothing that can be done?)
I couldn’t do anything but bite my lip as I was filled with frustration.
And then…
??: “…I get it now. So you were travelling to find a way to save your country huh.”
Amidst the imposing situation, a cold voice cut through the silence.
Chapter 4
??: “…I get it now. So you were travelling to find a way to save your country huh.”
As I turned to look behind at where the voice was coming from, I saw Ruber standing there with an indignant expression.
(Ruber…!?)
Ruber: “Nox, this is the first I’m hearing of your country being on the verge of a crisis. Why didn’t you say anything?”
Ruber took wide steps as he walked in front of me and up to Nox.
Nox: “Why are you here? I don’t remember inviting you.”
Nox frowned in dissatisfaction as the taller Ruber looked down at him.
Seras: “Ah-… I guess Ruber bein’ here is ‘cause I brought him.”
Seras awkwardly raised his hand and the two turned to look at him.
Nox: “…you?”
Seras: “I think it was the day after I got the invitation from Necropolia? Suddenly Ruber showed up in Seitos, all uninvited like.”
Ruber: “What do you mean by that?”
Seras: “That’s just how it is. Guess he heard about what was happenin’, so he just showed up and said he was gonna follow me. Then when we got here, he up and disappeared… I was kinda worried, ya know?”
Ruber: “It looked to me like you were quite enjoying the trip.”
Seras: “Well, yeah. Can’t deny that.”
(So Ruber was Seras’ friend.)
I was taken aback at the unexpected connection as I watched the two of them talk.
Nox: “Ruber. At any rate, you’re a guest without an invite. I don’t suppose I could get you to leave?”
Ruber: “Not possible. I’d have to wait until the Moon Road appears again.”
Nox gave a cold smile, completely devoid of emotion, but Ruber’s cocksure attitude was not dissuaded.
Lied: “…I don’t really understand what’s going on with you two.”
As if trying to break up the tense atmosphere, Lied let out a deep sigh.
Lied: “But it doesn’t change the fact that the Hell Festival starts tonight right? I’m still not satisfied with the work I’ve done on the composition for tonight. Maybe you could have this spat elsewhere.”
Nox and Ruber: “…”
Both Nox and Ruber were dumbfounded at Lied’s clear way of doing things his own way.
Lucien: “It looks like you two have a complicated relationship. But this is a special place, right? I think it might be better to go somewhere else.”
Lucien smiled faintly at Nox as he spoke as if hoping to calm the situation.
Lucien: “Prince Nox. You have my thanks for telling us about your country. If possible, would I be able to have some of your time later? I have something I’d like to discuss with you.”
Nox: “Something you want to talk about? Sure, of course I don’t mind. There’s still a little time before the festival starts… so for now, let’s go back to the castle.”
Ruber: “Mind if I come along?”
Nox: “…fine, fine. You can come.”
Nox’s kind smile returned and the group of us went back to the castle, at his suggesting…-.
…
……
The light of the setting sun shown into the castle’s drawing room…-.
In the room was myself, Lied, Seras, and the ever indignant-looking Ruber.
Lied: “…”
Lied hadn’t touched the tea that had been brought out as he sat in the corner of the room working on his musical notation.
(He looks like he’s really concentrating.)
And then there were Seras and Ruber sitting on the sofa, not looking at each other…-.
OO: “So I guess… the two of you have been friends for a while then.”
Ruber: “I meet lots of people on my journey. That’s all.”
Seras: “Cold as ever, ain’t ya Ruber.”
Ruber shrugged after the blunt answer and Seras shifted to look at me.
Seras: “I spend time away from the country doin’ different things, yeah? That’s how I got to know him.”
OO: “Oh I see. So, why do you travel Ruber?”
Ruber: “You don’t need to worry about that.”
(That may be, but still.)
Ruber’s attitude didn’t give me anything to go off of, and for some reason it pained me.
Seras: “Just be patient Princess. Ruber here’s got a pretty unusual temperament.”
Ruber: “…”
Seras: “And you Ruber, knock it off with that sour look. You’re scarin’ the princess.”
Seras let out a sigh in admonishment and then… there was a small noise and the door to the room opened.
Lucien: “…”
Lucien peeked in through the open door.
OO: “Lucien… is Nox with you?”
I came closer as I asked my question, and Lucien slowly shook his head.
Lucien: “After we finished talking, he went to work on the festival preparations. I feel bad for taking up his time when he’s so busy. I just wanted to thank him.”
OO: “Thank him…?”
———————–
Lucien: “Yeah. Necropolia and Arbitro have had ties for a long time. And… in the invitation, it said it would be better if I came as someone with black wings.”
———————–
(Now that I think about it, I wonder what he meant by that.)
I ended up staring as I thought, but Lucien seemed to guess what I was thinking as a mix of emotions flitted across his face before he spoke.
Lucien: “We owe a debt to this country. Long, long ago… a debt from when Arbitro’s discrimination was much more violent than it is now.”
OO: “Does that mean…-“
In Lucien’s country of Arbitro, those with black wings were the target of a deep-seated resentment.
Lucien himself, even as a prince, had endured that pain for a long time.
Lucien: “There were those with black wings who gave up on living in Arbitro as it was then. They wanted to live out their days away from Arbitro, and now they sleep in Necropolia.”
OO: “In Necropolia?”
Lucien: “Yeah. This country has often been the place where those who were lost could be mourned….”
OO: “Does that mean the grave you were looking at outside of the town was…?”
My voice had dropped as I asked, and Lucien gave a small nod.
Lucien: “I’ve always wanted to visit this place. As a royal with black wings, I wanted to give my thanks to the place where my people now sleep.”
Taking a breath, Lucien turned his sorrowful gaze to the window.
Lucien: “Hearing that Necropolia will fall to ruin came out of nowhere…- Prince Nox promised me that he would continue to watch over their graves until the very end.”
(The very end…)
That alone made my heart ache horribly.
(Nox said he’d arranged for the migration of his people, but after that, what will Nox do?)
My heart was heavy and pounding as I kept thinking of worse and worse scenarios.
Ruber: “…he’s always like that. He’ll decide to do something on his own, and end it on his own.”
Ruber seemed to have been listening to Lucien and I as we spoke…
His tone was indignant as he muttered those words which echoed in the room as it was dyed red.
Chapter 5
A blanket of clouds slowly drifted across the evening sky beyond the window…-.
Lied: “It’s…Ruber, right?”
Lied suddenly looked up from his composing and spoke to Ruber.
Lied: “So, who exactly are you, and what kind of relationship do you have with Prince Nox?”
Ruber: “… I’m Prince of Remedium, in the Land of Medical Treatment.”
Lucien: “Remedium…”
OO: “Do you know it?”
Lucien: “I’ve never been, but I’ve heard it’s a country that has produced the finest doctors for generations.”
Seras: “Ruber’s a pretty good doctor too. He’s made plenty of house calls in Seitos.”
Lied: “Huh… now I know your background. So, what about you and Prince Nox?”
Ruber squinted his eyes, as if trying to recall the memories in relation to Lied’s question.
Ruber: “I guess he’s kind of like my partner and benefactor.”
Lied: “Benefactor?”
Ruber: “Long ago, I heard his voice calling out to me as I lay dying after being attacked by wild beasts. He didn’t have any obligation to, but I don’t know what would have happened if I’d been left there.”
(W-wild beasts…?)
Seras: “That was pretty blunt. What kinda situation led to that?”
Ruber: “It’s not something I want to talk about. Anyway, after that Nox would often show up around me. But then something happened, and ever since he’s been avoiding me.”
Lied: “…does he hate you?”
Ruber: “I can’t deny it’s possible, but I don’t have a clue. Either way, I still haven’t returned the favor. That’s the whole story of why I’m chasing him.”
Ruber’s answer was well-reasoned, and he frowned severely in dissatisfaction.
Ruber: “Honestly, I’m also angry that he ran off.”
OO: “So that’s what it is…”
(Their relationship is even more complicated than I thought.)
———————–
Nox: “You can wake him up. You’re the only one I can ask, OO.”
———————–
(Nox is the one who gave me Ruber’s ring after he was attacked by the Dream Eaters. I don’t think he hates Ruber. But then why is Nox avoiding him?)
Lucien: “Now that I think about it, Lied, you called Prince Nox a ‘Grim Reaper’. And Prince Nox didn’t deny it so… what does that mean?”
Lied: “I don’t really know the details. But I’ve heard other people call the Prince of Necropolia a Grim Reaper.”
Lied looked down at the composition in his hand and traced it with his finger.
Lied: “He often appears in places that have gone through crisis or have great disasters… It’s almost like he’s a harbinger of death, so that’s why there’s a rumor of him being a ‘Grim Reaper’.”
(Grim Reaper… Nox called himself that in Saphinia. I wondered why, but I didn’t think there was a rumor like that.)
Seras: “Probably just an exaggerated nickname. Could be just a coincidence, right?”
Ruber: “…no, I don’t think it is.”
Seras was smiling, trying to smooth things over, but Ruber cut right in and refuted him.
Ruber: “I think Nox sees omens of death. Like he can sense it, but he can’t change fate.”
OO: “Fate…”
———————–
Nox: “OO. If you truly wish to change destiny…let’s meet in the Month of Rainbow beneath the stars.”
———————–
Nox: “When a person’s life burns out, I receive an omen.”
———————–
(There would have been many lives lost in the Land of Stars if we hadn’t found the Stardust Flower. Did he tell me that… because he’d had an omen about the Land of Stars?)
If that were true, I still didn’t understand why Nox would tell me about it.
(There are so many things I don’t know…)
OO: “I’m going to try asking Nox upfront.”
Ruber: “Really?”
As if he could sense my boiling and resolute thoughts, Ruber smiled unexpectedly.
OO: “Yes. I’ve wanted to know exactly what Nox was planning ever since I met him. And I came to this country so I could ask him about it.”
(I feel like if I don’t go so far as to ask him upfront, Nox will never tell me his true intentions.)
Seras: “Well ain’t that a fine idea? The princess here’s good at gettin’ information.”
Lied: “Sure, let’s just charge in headfirst and get completely rejected.”
Lied’s expression was affectionate as he looked at me, contrary to his sarcastic words.
Lucien: “No… I don’t think that’s what will happen. I can see that Prince Nox is concerned about OO too.”
Ruber: “True. He’s indifferent to other people, but it seems he’s got an unexpected interest in you.”
In agreement, Ruber put his hand to his chin and looked down at me.
Ruber: “There’s a good chance we’ll be able to catch him during the Hell Festival. When the festival ends, we don’t know if he’ll disappear to somewhere else. I’ll help you block off his path of retreat. Then I’ll handle it from there.”
OO: “Right…! Thank you so much.”
I gave a small smile and nodded at Ruber’s support.
Chapter 6
The sky was growing darker by the hour…-.
We were supposed to be biding our time in the drawing room, waiting for the Hell Festival to start…
Ruber: “…”
Suddenly, Ruber stood up and walked to the door.
Seras: “Hm? Ruber, where ya goin’?”
Ruber: “I want to get some fresh air. I’ll have a look around the town before the festival starts.”
Seras: “Doin’ your own thing as usual I see. Make sure you don’t end up like a lost little kid now.”
(Lost kid?)
The phrase didn’t suit Ruber, who always had a hardness about him, and without thinking I looked up.
Ruber: “…what?”
OO: “Um… if you don’t mind, do you want to go together? I want to see more of Necropolia too.”
Ruber: “…”
I came up with the reason on the fly, and Ruber turned his probing gaze to me.
Ruber: “…whatever.”
His answer was short, and he started off at a brisk pace. I hurried to follow after him…-.
…
……
The cool evening breeze carried with it the sweet scent of flowers…-.
Most likely because it was almost time for the festival, the crowd of people in the town seemed even larger than earlier in the afternoon.
Ruber: “…”
Ruber hardly spoke as we walked side-by-side through the town.
(I wonder if he’s bothered by me tagging along like this. But I finally have my chance…)
I attempted to start up a conversation to break the awkwardness.
OO: “Um… when we met up in Saphinia and Ancula, were you chasing after Nox then too?”
Ruber: “Why are you asking that?”
OO: “Oh, no real reason. …if that was a rude thing to ask, I apologize.”
I felt myself being overpowered by the aura Ruber put out and I dropped my gaze to my feet.
Ruber: “…hey.”
OO: “Yes…?”
I looked up when he called to me, and was surprised when his face was closer than I’d expected as he bent over.
Ruber: “Sorry. I didn’t mean to ruin the mood. I was just genuinely curious as to why you’d ask about me.”
OO: “Well… even though we met some time ago, I still don’t know anything about you.”
Ruber: “I’m a prince and a doctor. What other information would you need?”
OO: “Those are your titles. I want to know about you personally.”
Ruber: “…”
I was somehow able to falter my way through saying what I wanted to, and his brightly colored eyes opened wide…
Ruber: “I see. So you have a healthy sense of curiosity then.”
Ruber’s tone held his amusement.
Ruber: “I don’t have a good relation with the royalty in Remedium, so I go off to other countries a lot.”
OO: “Eh?”
Ruber: “The reason I was in Saphinia and Ancula. You said you wanted to know. I regularly travel to other countries at the request of patients. And while I did that, I chased after Nox.”
OO: “Oh, I see…”
Ruber answered it all so easily, and for some reason I felt as if the tension had drained from my shoulders.
(I thought he was just moody… but when he expresses his thoughts honestly, I can tell he’s careful with his words.)
As I realized that, the tension I’d felt when I was around him eased.
Ruber: “What about you? Why are you in Necropolia? I assume you were invited by Nox, but you could have ignored it.”
OO: “I-I couldn’t have ignored it… but as I said earlier, it’s because I’m curious. I want to know what Nox is planning. And I think about how he still hasn’t told me his true feelings…”
(When we met in the Land of Stars, I was a little frightened. But he looked so kind when he was looking out for the children of the town…-)
Ruber: “So you came to Necropolia just so you could ask him about his intensions. Despite your appearance, you’re a pretty reckless princess.”
OO: “…is that a bad thing?”
Ruber: “No? You and I have the same reason for being here. It’s unexpected that you and I might be so alike.”
Beneath the evening sky, Ruber smiled gently and it burned into my memory.
(I wonder if I got him to open up, just a little…)
Under his honest gaze, I remembered our shared feelings and felt reassured.
Chapter 7
The moon and stars shone in the indigo night sky…-.
The town, decorated with orange flowers and flickering candles, had an air of mystery to it at night.
Nox: “’The sun has almost set, and we pray for night to come, from beginning to end, the seasons change. Circling the living, those of the dead on their journey to the Hell King… we pray for you the peace of eternity.’”
In front of the gathered people, Nox spoke the prayer on a prepared stage in the center of town.
I stood with the other princes on the stage as guests as we listened carefully to Nox’s words.
Nox: “Most of you already know this, but tonight will be our last Hell Festival.”
After the prayer had ended, Nox calmly addressed the crowd.
Nox: “The Great Tree of Light does not have long. The peaceful time that we’ve been able to spend in this country will very shortly come to an end.”
I wondered if this information was already relatively public knowledge as there was no uproar at the news…
Everyone just listened to Nox with solemn looks on their faces.
Girl 1: “Necropolia’s gonna disappear night? I’m sad…”
Girl 2: “No crying. Because it’s fate that the end will come.”
Very young girls with their hair tied up with flowers were huddled around each other whispering sadly.
Nox: “…”
Then when I looked at Nox, his expression seemed to have gotten more strained… but it quickly returned to a plastered-on smile.
Nox: “It is a painful thing to lose the land we have come used to living on, but we mustn’t be overcome with grief. ‘Great or small, the end comes to all.’ Until now, we have escorted hundreds of souls, and just like we did then, it is now Necropolia’s time. That is all we can do.”
As Nox spoke those words, as if approaching things with a long-term outlook, his gaze fell to Lied.
Nox: “May I ask for your musical performance?”
Lied: “…before that, can I ask you one thing?”
Lied stepped forward at the urging and asked in a voice so quiet only those of us on stage could hear.
Lied: “Have you really given up?”
Nox: “…”
Lied: “Though if you don’t plan to answer, I don’t mind.”
Lied looked down as if uninterested and placed his bow on the string of the readied violin.
Then, a painful melody that roused the heart echoed in the town center….
(How can a song be both sorrowful and beautiful?)
The lights of the candles stood out against the townscape of Necropolia while Lied’s performance drifted through the air.
It was like the song echoed with grief as it mourned the soon-to-be ruined country, and I felt a great trembling in my heart.
Chapter 8
Before long, the performance changed hands and the Necropolia Orchestra replaced Lied…
In the town center, a solemn yet gorgeous dance party had begun.
(Everyone really looks like they’re having fun. I wonder if it’s because this is the last festival.)
There was one, looking down from the stage at the festival with a pained expression…-.
Nox: “…”
Coincidentally, my eyes met Nox’s from where he stood leaning against the wall in a corner of the square.
(This might be my chance to talk to Nox.)
Making up my mind, I walked over to him.
OO: “Would you like to dance for a song?”
Nox: “Dance… with me? Your invitation makes me happy but…-“
Ruber: “You can’t tell me you’re going to refuse?”
Suddenly, Ruber was standing there, a respectable distance behind Nox.
(Ruber…)
My eyes opened a little wider as Ruber appeared, coming to my aid with exquisite timing.
Ruber: “Does the Prince of Necropolia treat all his visiting guests like this?”
Nox: “Though I feel like you shouldn’t be interfering with this.”
At Ruber’s blunt and cynical words, Nox frowned in displeasure.
(It seems like Nox becomes a little more emotional when he’s in front of Ruber.)
As I watched their confrontation, Nox again turned back to me.
Nox: “Dancing with you sounds like much more fun than keeping Ruber company. Though it’s kind of bad form for me to be invited by a lady. Princess, would you dance with me?”
OO: “Y-yes…!”
Nox put his pale hand around my back and the two of us entered the ring of dancers.
As Nox took elegant steps, he naturally took the lead.
(He’s good at dancing.)
When we met at the jewel exhibition, and then during the incident with the Stardust Flower…
I had so many questions I wanted to ask, but standing in front of Nox now, I couldn’t decide on the words I wanted to say.
Nox: “You know, you’re pretty easy to read.”
OO: “Eh…?”
Nox: “Even though you have a bunch of things you want to ask, you don’t know what to ask first, right?”
His tone was teasing, and I felt a little frustrated that he had seen through me.
Nox: “In deference to that readability, just one.”
Suddenly, Nox was very close to my face.
(…)
Nox: “No matter what it is, I’ll answer one thing you want to know.”
OO: “Just one?”
Nox: “That’s right. Because I want to know what it is you want to ask most.”
Nox whispered as if this were a secret discussion, his lips lifted into a conspiratorial smile.
Before that charming smile, I was momentarily entranced but…-.
OO: “Nox, is this really okay?”
Before I could stop myself, the question I most wanted to ask was past my lips.
Nox: “Hm? What do you mean?”
OO: “About Necropolia. Is it okay to give up after coming this far?”
Nox: “… haha, that’s a shock. I thought you’d ask something completely different. …you’re very kind.”
Nox’s smile was gentle, and it seemed so fragile as if it would disappear at any moment.
Nox: “’To enrich the dying Great Tree, use the waters of life from the heart.’’”
OO: “Eh…?”
Nox: “It’s a legend here. It’s the only clue there is about how to resurrect the Great Tree. I’ve been traveling the worlds for so long, trying to find the thing that will save our country.”
OO: “But… you still couldn’t find it?”
Nox: “…yeah. One way or another, all things must come to an end. That is the fate that can never be avoided.”
I stood there in shock and Nox gently stroked his finger over my lips.
Nox: “I, and the people of this country, have accepted our fate of ruin. So please don’t be sad. I want you to enjoy the Hell Festival. I want you to look back and think… Necropolia was a beautiful country.”
His smile was even more enchanting than before and he nonchalantly distanced himself from me.
Then at the same time as the music ended, he left the circle of dancers, his robe flaring out behind him.
(Nox…)
It felt like my heart would break as I thought of what Nox must be feeling as he disappeared into the crowd of people.
As I looked at the ground, suddenly someone put their hand on my shoulder.
Seras: “Princess. Ain’t it a waste to have such a gloomy look on the night of the festival?”
OO: “Seras…”
Seras: “Ya been dancin’ for a while now. Wanna take a breather with me?”
OO: “…yes.”
I left the square, Seras gently pushing against my back.
Chapter 9
The sound of a flute as the minstrels played echoed over the festival crowded with people…-.
Seras and I had slipped out of the town center and I’d sat down on a bench along one of the streets.
Seras: “’To enrich the dying Great Tree, use the waters of life from the heart.’…dang, that ain’t very clear at all.”
As I tried asking Seras about the clue I had heard from Nox, Seras just apologetically scratched his head.
Seras: “Seems like Nox’s always been carryin’ this heavy burden around, searchin’ all on his lonesome for a way to save his country.”
OO: “…that’s very possible.”
Not much time had passed between when I’d met Nox and now, but Nox had always seemed to be working on his own.
Seras: “He reminds me of me, and it’s kinda irritatin’.”
OO: “What you were like…before?”
Seras was muttering to himself as if part way through a monologue when I repeated what he said without thinking.
Taking in my gaze, Sears’ face broke with a strained smile.
Seras: “The position I was in before I met you Princess, and Nox’s position. Ain’t they kinda similar?”
OO: “You’re right…”
There had been a time when Seras too had been struggling on his own to save his country.
(I had no idea Seras would become such a good friend when I’d first met him.)
As I remembered the past, a warmth spread through my chest.
Seras: “Then, I thought I had to do everythin’ all alone… but lotsa things go wrong when you’re on your own. You opened my eyes to all the things I was doin’ to make it worse, Princess.”
OO: “Seras…”
Seras: “If everyone takes on somethin’ that’s impossible on your own, it’ll work out. ‘Cause of that, you don’t gotta carry everythin’ on your own… will you tell Nox that?”
Seras spoke to me with an earnestness that was both on his face and in his words.
OO: “Yes. Thank you, Seras.”
I deeply bowed my head at Seras’ words of encouragement, and Seras stroked my head in satisfaction.
Seras: “Yeah, your cheerful face is much cuter Princess.”
(Cute…)
The announcement held no teasing and I felt my cheeks gradually heating up…-.
…
……
The flickering candleflames seemed to light the way to my destination…-.
I had walked around the town looking for Nox after parting with Seras.
———————–
Nox: “I want you to look back and think… Necropolia was a beautiful country.”
————————
(Nox holds this country very dear to him. That’s why I…-)
I walked through the town of people as my thoughts flipped back and forth when…
I saw Lucien and Lied amidst a crowd of people off the side of the road.
The two of them seemed to have noticed me too, turning their heads towards me.
OO: “What are you two doing here?”
At the unexpected reunion, the question was out before I could hold my tongue.
Lied: “Watching a puppet show. But it’s just about over.”
OO: “Puppet show…?”
Lucien: “They’re performing a story with the theme of death, passed down yearly for the Hell Festival. It’s about understanding how Death and the end are near to us all.”
(Death, and the end…-)
Lied: “Everything that has a beginning will always eventually come to an end. In the next instant, the whole world could suddenly and abruptly end.”
OO: “Yeah… that’s very well put Lied.”
Perhaps because the air of Hell Festival seemed so ephemeral, Lied’s words were easy to accept.
Lied: “But I think Prince Nox actually wants to fight against the end.”
OO: “…why do you think that?”
Lied: “Just a hunch. During his speech at the beginning of the festival… it sounded like the things he said were to convince himself. The future and fate are unclear, unreliable things. The only thing that’s clear is what we decide to do now. …though I feel like waiting for the inevitable end would be a waste.”
(Lied…)
I couldn’t think of an immediate response as a rip formed in Lied’s air of indifference…-.
Lied: “I bet it’s your fault I’m feeling this way OO.”
OO: “M-mine?”
Lied: “It’s probably your influence, considering you’re always so ridiculously positive all the time no matter what.”
OO: “Um…so I’m ridiculous?”
Lied: “It was a compliment.”
OO: “…that was too difficult to pick up on.”
Lied spoke in a casual way, and before I knew it, I was smiling along with him.
Lucien: “By the way, what are you doing here? Are you headed somewhere?”
OO: “Ah… actually I was looking for Nox. There’s something I wanted to tell him. Have you seen him come this way?”
At my question, Lucien and Lied looked at each other.
Chapter 10
The stars twinkled as if whispering to each other in the clear night sky…-.
Lied: “The last time I saw Prince Nox, he was dancing with you in the square.”
Lucien: “I wonder where he went. Prince Nox had an emotional investment in this Hell Festival too…”
Lied: “I bet it would be easier to search for him in this crowd of people from the sky. Prince Lucien. Do you have some time where we could make use of your splendid wings?”
So, having come from that conversation, Lucien and I now searched for Nox from the air.
(I’m kind of anxious…)
Given my current state of being carried, I could feel my heart speed up even more.
OO: “I’m sorry, about dragging you into this Lucien.”
Lucien: “I don’t mind. But… it’s been a while since someone called my wings ‘splendid’.”
Lucien’s black wings blended into the night, pushing back the glimmer of starlight.
A pleasant feeling filled me as I saw how happy he looked in profile.
OO: “Now that I think of it, are Micaela and the others doing well?”
Lucien: “Yeah. They’re all helping to improve the conditions for people with black wings. It’s a little at a time, but things are changing and I’m doing everything I can.”
(Lucien… I feel like his whole face is brighter than it was before.)
Though it had been brief, glimpsing that change made me happy and warmed my heart.
Lucien: “…I wonder what Prince Nox thinks about the current state of things on Necropolia.”
OO: “Eh…?”
Lucien: “He already mentioned it during the afternoon, though I don’t know the details about the country’s current affairs. But from what I hear, Necropolia has been feared for a long time and people keep their distance because it’s known as the country that governs death.”
(The country that governs death…)
If I turned my attention down, I could see the massive graveyard spread out beyond the town.
OO: “Actually, before I came to this country, I too had put myself on guard about it.”
Lucien: “Had you?”
OO: “Yes. But having seen the town, and listening to everyone talk… I came to think that Necropolia is a very kind place.”
Lucien: “…yeah, I think so too. As the ruin that is to come to Necropolia approaches, I want to help defend it. Of course in order to do that, we need to get permission from Prince Nox…-“
OO: “…you’re right.”
Taking in his words, I lightly tightened the grip of my arms wrapped around his back.
OO: “Let’s tell Nox. That we want to help. If everyone works together, I think we could change fate.”
(I’m sure, just like we changed the fate of the Land of Stars…-)
Lucien: “…how very like you.”
Lucien smiled and looked around at our surroundings.
Lucien: “…”
OO: “Lucien?”
Lucien: “It’s nothing… just, I may have an idea of where Prince Nox could be. I don’t have any proof, but would it be alright if we head that way?”
OO: “! Yes, please.”
We entrusted our thoughts to the faint sound of his beating wings, and I nodded in agreement to his proposal.
Chapter 11
The faintly colored lights drifted back and forth around the top of the Great Tree, illuminating it…-.
Lucien had brought me along as we drew closer to the Great Tree of Light.
(Ah…)
Lucien’s hunch had been right on the mark, as there stood Nox amidst the roots the Great Tree, along with Ruber.
They had their backs to us as they talked, the night wind carrying their words.
Nox: “I thought that if the Princess of Traumere were to come, maybe there would be some change in the Great Tree. But I guess that would have been too easy.”
Ruber: “She’s not a cure-all. Don’t abuse her power like that.”
Nox: “I know that. It’s just… it was a selfish hope.”
Ruber: “Nox, you…-“
Nox: “So? When do you plan on leaving? I can’t believe you would barge in on things even here at Necropolia like this. I’ll acknowledge your persistence.”
Ruber: “It’s in my nature to not back down from something I don’t agree with. …well, we’ll finish this later. Seems your guests have come calling.”
OO: “…!”
Nox and Ruber turned to look at us at the same time.
Nox: “Did you come to see the Great Tree of Light?”
Nox opened his arms wide as he looked up, welcoming us down.
Just like Nox had explained earlier that afternoon, the Great Tree of Light was magical, covered with drops of light.
Nox: “Beautiful, isn’t it? I always wondered if the realm of the dead would feel like this. It would be lovely to greet the end when it comes from here.”
Nox’s eyes were bathed in the faint light coming from the Great Tree, and he smiled lovingly.
(Nox and this country really are…-)
Lucien: “If there’s something on your mind, now’s your chance.”
I hesitated, trying to come to grips with everything, when I felt Lucien’s hand lightly touch my back.
Lucien: “If you don’t tell him what you want to say now… you’ll regret it later.”
OO: “…right.”
I nodded to Lucien and stepped up.
OO: “Nox. Earlier, you said that the fate of the end was unavoidable.”
Nox: “Yeah… that is the way of thinking here in Necropolia.”
(He’s right that no matter how long you struggle, it might all lead to a painful outcome. But still…-)
———————–
Seras: “If everyone takes on somethin’ that’s impossible on your own, it’ll work out. Cause of that, you don’t gotta carry everythin’ on your own… will you tell Nox that?”
———————–
———————–
I remembered what the others had told me during the festival and I tightly clenched my fingers together.
OO: “You told me about your omen, and the fate of the Land of Stars changed.”
Nox: “…”
His smile had broken and his eyes wavered as if they were looking somewhere else.
As I chose the proper words to convey what I felt in my heart, I took another step closer to him.
OO: “If you have the will to move forward, you won’t have to accept a sorrowful ending… that’s what I think.”
Nox: “OO…”
His expression as I looked into the depths of his hood seemed contorted with pain.
Nox: “You’re a kind, and very strong person. But I can’t change fate. I can’t be like you.”
Those words seemed to carry all of the anguish and troubles he’d been shouldering until now…-.
Lucien: “If you can’t change it on your own, it’s okay to ask for help.”
Nox: “Eh…?”
Lucien: “Sorry for just saying something like that, but… if you think you’ve come to the end with what you can do, isn’t it alright to ask for help? If you do, your path opens before you… and I’m speaking from experience.”
(Lucien…)
Nox: “…”
Ruber: “Nox. I can only imagine what you’d do after this country falls to ruin, but…”
As if to break the silence that had fallen between us, Ruber coolly raised his voice.
Ruber: “I absolutely will not let you make that choice. If you say that you need this country in order to keep living, I’ll find a way to save Necropolia. I don’t intend to just sit back and watch my friend die.”
Nox: “Friend… what are the chances that a doctor and a Grim Reaper would be friends.”
Nox smiled and looked like he was about to cry as he let out a long sigh.
Nox: “…you win.”
As he spoke, powerless, the wind blew and pulled off his hood.
There was a single tear streaking a line down his exposed face.
Nox: “Hope and sorrow, I thought I threw those emotions away long ago. So why… am I crying?”
His tears curved around his jaw and fell, and as they landed on the roots of the Great Tree…
OO: “…!”
The Great Tree began to emit a dazzling light, bright as if it were midday.
Epilogue
The Hell Festival came to an end, and the growing light of the rising sun was visible on the horizon.
Below the Great Tree of Light, the princes had gathered.
OO: “’To enrich the dying Great Tree, use the waters of life from the heart.’ …so I guess the ‘waters of life’ were tears.”
The roots of the Great Tree, which had discolored due to rot, had returned to a healthy and vibrant hue.
Nox: “I wonder about that. No matter how much I cried before now, I don’t think there was ever a change. I don’t think the thing to enrich the Great Tree of Light was just tears…-“
Sitting on the massive roots of the Great Tree, Nox spoke those meaningful words but left them vague.
Seras: “We came runnin’ as soon as we saw that bright light… but seems like we missed somethin’ awful important.”
Lied: “What does it matter? If the matter is settled, that’s that.”
A cheerful expression had found its way to both Seras and Lied as they looked up at the Great Tree.
Nox: “I don’t think we can say it’s settled. The tree has recovered, but we don’t know if that’s the end of the rot.”
Ruber: “You’re dragging this out. We’ve cured the tree that’s so important to this country. Why can’t you simply leave it at that?”
Nox: “Even if you tell me to, I really can’t.”
Precisely because Ruber had just saved both Nox and this country, Ruber was not mincing words…
And Nox, as if understanding that, spoke with only slight resistance.
Lucien: “That aside, we still put all our hope on that single clue, didn’t we?”
Nox: “…hope. I guess so. I thought I was in total darkness, but I still saw a prick of light.”
As a faint breeze played with his white hair, Nox broke into a brilliant smile.
Seras: “Well ain’t that a fine look that we ain’t seen in a while. Don’t go tryin’ to take on everythin’ by yourself, got it?”
Nox: “Prince Seras…”
Seras: “If you ever get tired, talk to someone. Like me, or someone else. Oh yeah, and there’s a real well-educated owl in my country. She might be willin’ to lend you some wisdom.”
Nox: “Haha…an owl. I’d like to meet her.”
I watched as Nox gave a carefree smile, and then suddenly turned to Ruber.
Ruber: “What?”
Nox: “Nothing. I was just thinking it might not be so bad to get connected with other countries.”
Ruber: “I have no context for what that means.”
Nox: “You’re pretty thick headed, aren’t you. Though I already knew that.”
(…they’re not really fighting, right?)
I hesitated on whether or not I should interject as they spoke so unreservedly to each other but…-.
Nox: “Ruber. I as Prince of the Country of Grave Keepers, and you as a doctor who saves lives are on completely opposite sides. And because you were with me, you probably suffered unnecessarily.”
Ruber: “…”
Nox: “But even still… just like before, is it okay if I come see you from time to time? …as your friend.”
Nox seemed a little embarrassed at the words he said at the end… and Ruber’s lips twitched.
Ruber: “You’re going to ask that NOW? That’s unusual. I’m used to being tossed about when it comes to you.
Nox: “Ah, I see. I guess that’s true. …thank you.”
It didn’t seem as if Nox would be putting any more distance between himself and Ruber.
(…I’m so glad.)
Ruber and Nox laid out their feelings before each other, and I felt the tension between them unravel beneath the light of the sun…
And a warm feeling filled my chest.
Nox: “Oh right. I still haven’t expressed my thanks to OO and Prince Lucien.”
OO: “Eh…”
Lucien: “Thanks? Why?”
Nox: “For expressing how much you were thinking about this country. It made me glad.”
Fringed with those long eyelashes, Nox’s eyes softened.
Because of that expression, it no longer felt as if he were a cold, inhuman puppet.
Nox: “I was always unable to make a choice. To accept the fate of the end, or fight it… as prince of the country that governs death, I wondered which was the right option.”
OO: “Nox…”
Nox: “But because of what all of you said, my hesitation vanished. Since the moment we are born in this word, we want to change our fate. That’s what I believe from the bottom of my heart.”
It was like the sun hitting the earth as Nox’s face broke into a full smile.
Nox: “In my own way, I wanted to try struggling one more time. So that this truly sorrowful end wouldn’t befall us.”
Nox had always seemed to be smiling calmly, but I was certain this was the first time I’d been treated to his true smile.
Lucien: “Even if you expect a truly painful and difficult fate, if you think positively and don’t give up, some day the road will open to you… that might be a little too optimistic, but it’s what I choose to believe.”
Ruber: “…yeah.”
Ruber nodded calmly in response to Lucien’s quiet words.
Ruber: “Fighting against your undesirable fate is a privilege of the living.”
OO: “Yes…”
Suddenly, a gentle melody reached my ear…and as I turned around, Lied was freely playing his violin.
Lied: “…”
Seras: “He really does have some skill. Just listenin’ to it can make you fall in love. Ah, I forgot, I shouldn’t be talkin’ yeah?”
Lied: “It’s fine. For some reason, I just had to play this song that came to my mind.”
Lied answered Seras amidst the gentle melody.
Unlike when the festival had started, this melody gently wrapped around my heart and faded into the dawn sky…
(Even in total darkness, if you don’t give up, one day you will find the light. I believe that as well.)
The leaves of the Great Tree of Light rustled as the wind blew through them.
The sunlight falling to the ground seemed to usher in a new day at the end of this long tale.
END